Each of the adhoc party to go an obtain the needed herbs to stave off the disease heads back to their respective locations to pack up their gear for going into the Fey Haunted Forest where all manner of beast can be found.

When they return they no longer look like A Trapper, a Repairwoman, A Mortician, A Clerk, A Minstrel, and a Typical Guard...but now they look like what they had seen in their minds eye from the tales told...a band of adventurers.

additionaly Tarack had a ram with him lead on a tether.

Laurel provides the group with a satchel she had put together with 6 healing packets of herbs that she explains can heal minor wounds 1d3 damage and 2 packets of Habsalura, which is very hard to come by that can restore mana takes an hour to brew and restores 1d4 spell levels to one person. Theres a Healing Kit, and 12 stalks of Extripia, which can lower fatigue for a short time. lessens fatigue steps by 1 for 4 hours. cannot take more than 2 in a row or nausea sets in for 4 hours.

I wish I had more I could give to you. But I fear I have nothing else that I think would be beneficial in your task. May Gozreh Guide your mission and grant speed to your feet. remember in 2 days we will start losing the folks of the town. Be careful. All Manner of foul creature resides in The Darkmoon Wood.

Rennick appears ready with  a longbow over his shoulder and some weapons at his belt.
He had been resting during most of the hour, while the others prepared. However he had visited the Paper Mill
and told the guard there that he wouldn't be doing guard duty that night. The reason was that he was going on
an important mission for the whole town, he said.
He filled his waterskin with water from the barrel at the Paper Mill.

As long as there's a wide vision, he'll ready the bow while walking through the forest.
If the vision becomes very limited, he'll ready his longsword and his kukri.
"I can carry a few of these supplies, I'd especially like 3 stalks of Extripia, for I've been up and guarding all night."

The old clerk appeared wearing a shirt of well-maintained scale, burnished a dull brown-red.  He had gloves that matched, as well as pants, and an old army haversack of some foreign make.

And that stupid broadsword from his office was slung over one shoulder, almost as tall as he was.

"I'll carry whatever's left over," he grizzled, "Take your pick everyone.

There's a glint in his eye, daring anyone to say anything about his unusual getup.

Tarack was waiting for others as they showed up. Being used to traveling in the wilderness, and not being a fan of lacking the one items he needed, Tarack's pack looked heavily packed. Some additional items where also packed in the saddle bags thrown over his ram's back. The ram, whom Tarack called Buddy, wore leather barding and appeared to be able to take care of itself.

Tarack's Firepelt (leopard) did not leave his side and seemed eager to make the journey.

"Thank you Laurel. We will use them as needed, and not return them if not."

Once everyone arrived ready for the journey Tarack raised his hands to speak.

"I am a dwarf of few traditions. I was not raised among other of my kind and my parents died then I was still rather young, the one thing I did learn from them and it is a tradition I follow, is that we must sit and contemplate before setting off.

So, I would ask you all to sit down for a short time and think about what we are about to do. Please my friends ... sit."

Tarack sits and waits to the others to follow. After about a minute he gets up

"Ok, lets go."

Nomerendal had gathered his pole and while they were walking back to the herbalist's shop, he was entirely considering just a brief stop in order to settle his curiosity about the bundles, and then heading toward the river. Much of his day had already been wasted with the excitement, and his fishing and his napping had been seriously cut into. When Laurel tasked them with the recovery of certain ingredients, Nom was about to bow out, he had every intention of doing so for any number of excuses came to mind. He had a bit of practice for tonight's show at Jak'a'napes,.. as well as some other things... yes, plenty that required his attention elsewhere.

But if it was the glare from Arell, or some compelling and ongoing sense of curiosity, Nomerendl grudgingly agreed to accompany them. "As long as we're not gone long, I don't want to miss anyone passing through. Just so we all understand..."

The little gnome returned to his small room and was about to flop himself on his cot, a bit overwhelmed by the thought of having to pack and prepare things for what would likely be an interesting but uncomfortable outing, when he paused to look upon his adventuring pack all ready by the door. "Well, I suppose I could take you along, though this is something far short of the adventures you'll one day see, it might be a good idea to break you in a bit so that you're ready when something exciting comes our way!" Nom said to his pack.

He grabbed a few odds and ends, stuffing them into his pockets and grabbed his pack with a sigh. "Someday, I just know it. Someday adventure will find us! But until then, I suppose we'd best help out the town and go for a bit of a hike. I just hope we don't miss our big chance while we're away!"

~~~

As he trudged back up the street to meet the others, he felt a strange elation as people took notice of him. Some waved hopefully, others gave words of encouragement and gratitude. It was as if he were going on some great quest in a story! Just going with Arell and the others to fetch a few ingredients, he thought to himself. It's not like I'm going to save the world or anything! Ha!

The small pack carried well. To it, he'd strapped his fishing pole - just in case - and he carried a walking stick. At his waist was a very new-looking shortsword that he'd brought along simply to get it roughed up a bit so as to not look quite so fresh. A quiver of arrows hung across one hip, and his shortbow  was slung across his shoulders as he'd seen some elven rangers carry theirs when they'd passed through town a year or more ago. His clothes were covered by a set of hand-me-down leathers he'd traded stories and songs for, including the alterations to make them fit his small stature, with a local tanner.

He looked eager, munching occasionally on some of the now baked bread he'd stolen dough for earlier in the day, and was even humming the tune to a ballad about real adventure, trying to keep a straight face as he thought about their little outing compared to a truly heroic undertaking like the one in his song...

"Well then, I suppose I'm ready, but just remember I need to get back as quickly as possible. I don't want to miss adventure should it pass through town while I'm out collecting... whatever it is we're after!"

Varianna came in a few minutes late. She was dressed for the road, though most of her clothing was very earthy in hue. Several hilts can be seen in various places around, making at least one accessible no matter what position she found herself in.
Glancing across the assembled group, Varianna quickly realizes that they were here to get the job done. She grabs a single serving of the healing salve, and one of the Extripia stalks. "Thank you."

She looks around at the group and addresses the group. "Hello everyone. You may call me Varianna. My expertise lies in mechanical things and fine manipulation. A locksmith by trade, but I have found ways to help out in the few weeks I have been in town."

Lorn nodded at the dwarf"I do not wish to see anyone dead but I do what I must if the need arises. It would be detrimental indeed if my work should increase unnaturally." he said as he stood up from the desk and headed for the door. "I will only be a moment to dust off my travel gear. I'll meet you in an hour."

He mounted his grey mare and trotted at a good pace home where he informed Verrin of the situation. "this errand won't be long and hopefully before you have to dig too many graves.". Lorn loaded up his horse with supplies and equipment and headed for the others.

"Let us avert this crisis with haste." he said on his horse; ready and eager to get going.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:48, Tue 10 Oct 2017.

as The party all gathered at The Trappers hut, Lorn stood out atop his horse. As they began to head for the city gate and passed two of The Lumber Consortium Guards at the gate who nodded as they left. Lorn on his horse was slowed to an amble by the dwarf and Gnomes short legs. There would be no speedy movement.


The sun was in its mid morning position to the parties back as they started through the piedmont that was between Falcons Hollow and the foreboding Fey Forest in the distance. It was a warm fall day, but not hot. Birds were flying through the air. The young cat that was Tarack's friend would bound and play in the grass and then run to catch up as they started to distance themselves from him.

The danger on everyones mind if they could not find the herbs did nothing to quell the enjoyment of the moment.

give me an order of march. youre going cross country directly to the forest and staying off the beaten path to expedite things if I understood Tarack.

Rennick wants to go as second in line, letting Arell or another tank go first.

Once Tarack got off his ass and pointed the way, Arell trudged toward the front.  If anyone begrudged him pole position he would defer, but long experience had taught him his place on one of these adventures was between the group and whatever was currently trying to eat them.
This message was last edited by the player at 13:13, Wed 11 Oct 2017.

Casting a final longing look over his shoulder at what ought to have been the day's fishing spot, Nomerendal sighed and then scampered along behind the others. The occasional glances over his shoulder might well have been to confirm that he was indeed missing a day on the banks to go tramping around for who-knew-whats... or it might be that he was actually paying attention to their hindward trail.

After a ways down the road, he found himself humming a tune and skipstepping, quite enjoying himself!

OOC: Bringing up the rear...

Varianna fell in line behind the big men. She had no qualms about going first, but if they wanted to do it, then she saw no reason not to let them. She did want to be close enough to the front to be able to see, especially with her superior vision, at least superior to the humans.

As the group starts down the road Tarack makes a point "We can travel along the trails or cross country. The trails are much faster, but are a longer trip and we have two slower members who will not be able to take a full advantage. I hate to ask this of you Lorn, but perhaps Nomerendal can ride my ram and ... I could hitch a ride on your hours so we can all travel faster as a group."
This message was last edited by the player at 03:39, Wed 11 Oct 2017.

Rennick would like to use the trails or paths, saying:
"The trails are really much more reliable than going off the paths. If you get to a patch of dense underwood or brushes, then you may spend half an hour or more to get through."

Rennick changed his mind:
I've changed my mind. I've had a look at the map and I see that it's much faster to go cross country and to cross the river. However, to cross it we will need a raft and we can build it ourselves, but it might take a while and a few attempts. So, has anyone of you experience with building a raft or something else which is sturdy enough to carry us over the river? Or do you have another idea about crossing the river?"

Nomerendal uncorked his waterskin and took a long pull. It was toilsome work to keep up with these long-legged companions, save for the dwarf who was shorter of stride like himself and weighed down by much heavier gear. The little gnome had to admit that though he'd rather be fishing - or plucking a lute and waiting for adventure to find him - he was quite enjoying the outing to this point.

"I'll relate to you a story of two young knuckle-heads who tried to construct a raft many years ago..." After whetting his lips, the bard slipped into his well-practiced role of storyteller. "They started by gathering driftwood, vines and whatever other refuse they could find along the riverbanks, including a worn pair of pants strangely enough. Between them, they were able to scrounge a few bits of twine, a piece of rusty wire, and several bent and corroded nails. For a hammer they used water-worn river stones, several of which shattered in the process. Lashings were made, logs were added and two long push-poles were discovered in a nearby bosque. Finally, the two lads stood proudly admiring their day's handiwork. Several back-pattings were exchanged as they built up their courage to try it out."

"It was springtime, and the water level had raised according to the brown frothy runoff of the season. The low bank were the two had constructed their rather... creative raft was on a gentle bend in the river. With final boasts of bravery, they used their poles to push themselves out into the water!"

"The sailors didn't get far. It turns out their bend in the river generated a very gentle eddy of a dozen cart-lengths or so. The first challenge they faced was navigating out of that eddy and out into the actual current. It should also be noted that upon boarding, the raft was not as bouyant as they'd hoped. It didn't sink... but it was only partially out of the water. The icy cold water nipped from their ankles to their knees. After considerable effort, they were able to gain the main current and were once again seaward bound!"

Nomerendal took another drink as he put on a thoughtful face, long practiced in the commonroom of Jak'a'napes as a device to draw in the patrons to his telling. "With cheers of triumph, they scrambled to their pre-chosen places at starboard and port, their long poles at the ready in case a large rock or other debris in the turbulent and muddy water should near itself too closely to them. One of the lads had the foresight to now look downstream to scout for possible hazards..."

"And a hazard he saw! The river made a sharp turn, smashing headlong into a stone cliff before it turned hard to their port direction. A huge whirlpool sucked locks and spat foam... and they were headed right for it! They were committed, there was no place to go, and a quick exchange of looks passed between them, each too frightened to say anything. Whether to attempt to say aboard and risk going down with the ship, or to abandon and risk icy undertow... that was the immediate dilemma!"

"The best of friends, the lads tried their best to push away from the cliffside. The raft strained, and lashings popped! Just as it seemed they might make it, the front of the raft raised high into the air as the aft sunk into the center of the hungry whirlpool! One of the lads was tossed to the side near the cliff, the other raised his hands in a futile attempt to keep the raft from pushing him beneath the surface. The raft finished its ascent and then capsized over! The river seemed to roar hungrily as the gaping maw of the whirlpool swallowed the raft!"

"Moments passed..."

"One of the lads clutched desperately to the side of the cliff, his feet fortuitously finding a huge sunken boulder for purchase. He glanced up in time to see his friend being pushed beneath the raft as it was sucked under the water! After several agonizing moments, the first saw his friend surface again, gasping and sputtering, but on the far side of the whirlpool! He as floundering and when the circular motion brought him near, friends stretched their arms in an attempt to rescue! But the river had other intentions..."

"Hands passed, fingertips touched, but the older lad was sucked under again! Another time passed as the youth clinging to the rocks looked desperately for a branch or something which he could extend to his drowning friend. Miraculously, he saw one of the push-poles just beneath the surface! As he grabbed it with one shaking hand, he heard his friend surface again with a gasp! But he was on the far side of the whirlpool once more!"

"The pole was extended... but the other was sucked down once more! This time, the moments slipped away, longer than before... too long. The young man on the rock debated frantically if he should dive back into the swirling, icy vortex to save his friend, but somehow knew to do so was death..."

Nomerendal's voice cracked, whether through true emotion or clever stage-craft, no one would ever really know.

"Suddenly a hand shot up from beneath the surface! The rock-hugging lad drove his rescue-pole toward it like a lance! This time the grasp was successful! The fight between a young man and a spring-swollen river was joined in earnest!"

"The raft was never seen again, nor any part of it... To this day, neither the logs, nor the twine, nor the handful of rusty nails used in its construction, have ever washed up on any of the banks of the river, neither have they been found stuck against the rocks."

"But what of the lads you're all wondering? Well, the rescue was successful! As they both lay on the bank of the river after making a daring effort to pass along the cliff to safety, their bodies shook and shivered from the exertion. How close they had come to a watery grave would not sink into their minds for some time after they'd made it home to warm up, but it was certainly a story the twain would tell each time their families were gathered around a fire."

Nomerendal smiled and theatrically winked as he nodded his head in conclusion of the tale.

"So then friends, shall we build ourselves a raft?"

Rennick answers: "Yes, of course we shall construct a raft! What a beautiful story, it really motivates me to try for ourselves!
This is the real stuff of legend, if you get to test your strength and stamina to survive in a fight with a mighty river."

Rennick thought for a moment about the whirlpool and what had happened.
"I think that before setting our raft into the river, we should first check for any whirlpools in the river. We don't want to risk
our lives too soon. Better look for a nice calm place, where the river is going in a straight line. You know what I mean, right?"

Rennick's backpack is quite heavy, for he has stuffed a lot of materials for constructing a raft into it.

As the goal or purpose of the mission is not exactly clear to Rennick, he asks Tarack:
"What are we looking for, Tarack, once we get to Ulzmilla's cottage? I heard something about Ratstail, but is that all? Will we need to look for signs of the criminals who did this, when we visit the witch? Might she be the one? Or can we ignore her?"
This message was last edited by the player at 15:43, Sat 14 Oct 2017.

Tarack rubs his chin "I have only the basic understanding of how to make something like that and we have animals with us. We need to make sure its good enough and does not brake up in the middle of the stream.

But, most of us have been around lumber long enough to have seen it done. Lets get started."

OOC: What rolls need to be made and by whom? Lets get beyond this stage folks.

It takes a few hours of walking to reach the woods edge. But the niceness of the fall day makes climbing the gentle rise and fall of the hillocks between the woods and the town seem like a picnic. Its hard to believe that the group assembled is on a mission to save lives. The forest grows closer and closer...the tall trees a variety of Pine, Fir, Ash, even a few Oak, and of course The Darkwood that the Vale is named for; rise above the floor of the vale high above the parties head. Shrubbery at the edge of the woods is sparse but gets thicker further in.

As the party gets near the forests edge the first thing they notice is hundreds of tree stumps..signs there was a logging camp here at one time...now the loggers prey on another section of the woods.

As they near the forests edge, things begin to get quieter...no birds chirping...no buzz of insects...no animal noses in the distance...As they breech the edge and things begin to get shadowy the stench of death becomes apparent.

and not long after they see something that appalls them Hanging from particularly broad Ash Tree, its white bark stained purple by drying blood, are the lifeless bodies of three Fey. The Bodies spiked to the tree with Iron Spikes. 3 spikes were used on each to be presented in a manner to hold each arm straight to the side and one driven through their stomach. Terror was on each of the sprite like feys faces. This was a brand of horror none of the party had ever seen.....

Rennick is shocked by the three murdered fey, though he doesn't like fey particularly.
He says: "This is disgusting, however much one may dislike fey creatures. We're not always on friendly terms, but that's no reason to start killing them. They're intelligent creatures like us, and humanity can get into big trouble if it's fighting a war against fey."

Arell looks up at the ash tree with an oddly puzzled expression.

"Most of the time I'd agree with you, Rennick." he says after a moment, "But...I don't exactly carry iron spikes around with me just in case I should come across a random fae being uppity."

He looks back towards the hunter, "This--whatever this was--was calculated.  Deliberate.  Persons or persons unknown decided that these three needed to die gruesomely.  And so said persons deliberately hunted these three down and pinned them up here.  I ain't saying they were right to do so...but the kind of anger that drives people to acts like this doesn't come from nowhere."

He thinks a moment, "If we weren't in a hurry, I'd say we take 'em down bury them or something.  Earn "Brownie points" or whatever.  But time marches and we ought to also.  Anyone know of any reason we should stop anyway?"

He looks at the rest of the group.  Rendal knew the stories, Lorn knew burial customs, Tarrack knew trees and shit, and the elf probably knew more than all of them combined.

Somebody around here ought to know if this disgusting display could wait a few days.

"I'd hate to overburden Helga over much. If it becomes strictly necessary for haste then perhaps. But for now I advice caution."

---

The mortician followed the group on their path to the hut. Not knowing the terrain half as well as the others. Even though he'd lived in the region for quite some time, he'd never wander much out of the beaten path. There was never any need, since even the most rural farm had a dirt road to follow.

Upon seeing the fey, he looked at them curiously. He had seen death in many forms, and read and studied the rest. Seeing fey for the first time in his life however was something new. "Can anyone tell me what kind of fey they are? They come in various forms, correct? Or so the bards say." sitting atop his horse he looked towards Nomerendal.

The little gnome had been prattling on to whomever would listen, or were pretending to listen, and so was last to come upon the scene. "...and so it was that the huge barbarian struck out at the terrible Godling, wounding... Oh! By the Bones!" His voice cracked as his feet froze in their tracks!

It took a moment for him to compose himself after seeing the fey creatures tacked to the trees. "I think we should take them down and cover them in moss and flowers... not because we might win some sort of favor with the denizens of the woods... but because it's the right thing to do." Nomerendal's normal, care-free demeanor seemed especially affected by the scene. "It won't take us long..."

The little fellow dropped his pack and began to gather armloads of moss and undergrowth. "The forest will reclaim them quickly... I don't think there's much danger of predators..."

Nom glanced around carefully to see if there might be anyone who could tell him more about the gruesome act...


Knowledge(Nature): Take 10 for a total of 15 to identify fey critters.
Perception: Take 10 for a total of 15, looking for animals to converse with. If found, will cast Speak with Animals.

"I agree, we should bury them, even if it's only a shallow grave or a mound. It'll help their way to Pharasma's embrace that will lead them on to their final destination." Lorn says. Pushing his horse forward a bit to get closer before dismounting.

The Gnome examines the bodies briefly and it's too difficult given their current state of identifying which small Get they could be.

He glanced around and can see indications of animals and can see a few curious squirrels watching from up in the trees

Rennick starts removing the iron pins which are pinning the fey against the trees.

OOC: strength check?

Rennick quickly unpins the fey from the tree, the iron stakes coming loose easily with a few jerks back and forth. He lowers the dead bodies to the ground

Rennick then says: "let's bury them quickly"
He starts ploughing a shallow but rectangular hole into the ground with his warhammer.
He then deposits the fey bodies into the hole.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:35, Tue 17 Oct 2017.

Lorn walks over to Rennick and helps him as he can to get the bodies down then kneels down to the first fey to investigate it's death.


22:32, Today: Lorn rolled 17 using 1d20+8.  heal; checking out wounds; cause of death.

Lorn can tell the fey were tortured. Slices cross their tiny frames.

"This bodes ill. These poor creatures were tortured before left to hang in the trees. I haven't seen this kind of evil in many years." he says. Looking over their small mangled bodies. He also checks if there are any tattoos or identifiable tokens of some sort.

What does the clothing look like?
This message was last edited by the player at 20:44, Tue 17 Oct 2017.

Arell reaches back for his trench shovel...only to discover it not in its loop.

The hells did he do with it? (And Abadar smite him for not knowing where it was...please...quickly).

Did he lend it to someone?  Agh...doesn't matter now, he still didn't have it.

He picks up one of the discarded spikes...maybe he could find a descent branch and make a sort of garden hoe with the thick end.

Barring the stupid thing be cursed by some fairy hating godling...

He paused.

Was the spike marked by some fairy hating godling?


15:45, Today: Arell Kirkwood rolled 8 using 1d20+2.  Perception on Spike; anything important?

Well on the positive side, that was a bad roll wasted on something minor

They only have their 'small clothes' (underwear) on and nothing identifiable

Nomerendal paused a moment and glanced at the curious squirrels. Drawing upon his innate magic, a magic he shared somehow through ancient ancestry with these tortured and murdered fey, he pitched his voice very high and chatty-like in the nature of the small creatures...

Cast Speak with Animals

[In Squirrelish] "Well hello little friends! I'm called the Fisher. There is much to see isn't there? Many tall-folk walking about and making a fuss, some of them digging, and strange fey that no longer laugh nor play... What has happened here? Surely from the tree-tops you seen or heard something... will you share it with me little friends?"

Nomerendal produced some crumbs from one of the rolls he'd stolen from the kitchen of Jak'a'napes on his way out, and scattered them about at the base of a tree where the squirrels might take them from relative safety.

The squirrels ventured down the bark of the tree in jerky quick motions until the could hear and communicate

[In squirrelish]
hello the fisher. i am big teeth and my friend is stuffed cheeks. some two legs tall ones came upon the little friendlies. The two legs smelled of rotten tubers. They stopped them playing then hurt them. It was mean.

Nomerendal dropped to a knee and  absently scattered a few more crumbs.

[In Squirrelish] "I'm delighted to meet you Big Teeth and Stuffed Cheeks! I'm sorry to hear about the little ones, and you're both certainly right! How very mean!" He chattered with the squirrels a moment about the atrocity and the foulness of rotten tubers and the wonderment of why the mean two-legs might wish to consume such nasty victuals when the forest had so many tasty nuts and berries and seeds and flowertops and tender barks and ...

[In Squirrelish] "See my two-leg friends over there? They would very much like to find the rotten-tuber-smelling meanies you saw and scold them! Can you tell me which way they went? And what of the weather little ones? Do you suppose water will fall from the sky soon? A warm nest is good when the water falls from the sky. Do you know where the mean two-legs have their nest?"

The two squirrels conferred briefly then stuffed cheeks said. they went towards sunrising. they of the two legs who take away the homes

The bard now held two final pieces of bread before him, just on the tips of his fingers, in a friendly final offering.

[In Squirrelish] "You are both quite wonderful to chat with!" Nom complimented. "We're going to give the little ones back to the earth now. I'll tell my two-leg companions how delightful you've been and then one day they will scold the meanies. For now though, go and look and eat and play and chat, until we meet again my little friends! Thank you!"

Nomerendal could feel the magical connection beginning to fade away as he stood up slowly and walked back over to where the others were interring the dead fey.

"It was drunken loggers." Nomerendal reported solemnly. "It must not be enough that they should do their work, but have time to become sotten and malicious. I told those squirrels that we'd scold the meanie... erm... those loggers when we found them... will you all help me do that? I'm afraid I might need a bit of backup when I go picking fights with those much, much larger than myself!"

When the burial was complete, the gnome sang a bit of rhyme in a fae key. When Arell rolled his eyes, Nom shrugged defensively, "What? It was the right thing to do! Don't be so dour all the time! Say, have I ever told you the story of the three little..."

Arell rolled his eyes, again, "We'll add it to the list." he grumbled.

He found a reasonably stout tree branch and tapped the spike into the thicker end with judicious use of a rock, making a reasonable hoe-esque tool, and set to help dig.

He also grabbed the rest of the spikes and stowed them in his pack.  Apparently they might be useful...

The little Fey buried and words said over their bodies, the party moved on.

The woods were alive with birds, insects, and small animals. Occasionally the noises of larger animals could be heard in.the distance.

The trees became denser, the ground foliage thicker occasionally broken by a forest meadow.

The day was cooler beneath the tree boughs. The smell of Pine thick in the air.

Then almost without warning there was the river. 150 feet across at this point and as far as the eye can see either way. The water was somewhat calm at this point and the coloration indicated deeper.

Now all it would take is crafting a way across.

dc 20 to craft an item to make a functional raft, small boat, or canoe.
If someone has survival and can make a DC 15 check the DC drops to 18. A successful knowledge nature DC 15 roll will drop it to school 15. I'll allow one person to roll to craft it. Then I'll allow each of the other 5 to roll 'aid another checks' DC 10 to add +2 to the roll as long as each has a unique and distinctive way of helping...ie cutting the logs, sewing the vines together, etc
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:54, Thu 19 Oct 2017.

Rennick digs into his survival knowledge, to think of some way to help build a raft, but he can't think of anything useful.

12:17, Today: Rennick Hitman rolled 12 using 1d20+4.  Survival check to help craft a raft.

Nomerendal took a few moments to admire a stretch of river he'd not been able to dip a line into... at least not yet. His trained eye watched the surface for signs of currents and he even went so far as to fling a few stones with his sling out toward the center of the water. He surveyed the situation and thought he saw something favorable on the far bank.

Nature DC15: Taking 10 for a total of 15.

"Say Arell, you're looking particularly ladder-ish today! Mind hoisting me onto your shoulders so I can get a better look at yonder bank? There may be a calm spot or three which we could steer towards, keeping us from drifting too far down river."  Without waiting for an answer, the little gnome began moving toward the paladin with intents of summit.

"In any body of flowing water, there are portions that move faster than others, these are currents. There are also portions that move significantly slower, almost still, held in place by the rush of said currents. Fish like to hang out at the bottom of those still places and watch for food going by as it takes less energy than holding a position in the current. If we can negotiate the river in such a way as to hit as many of those 'dead spots' as possible, then it will be much less wear on our vessel, and much less effort on our part!"

Glancing over at Rennick, Nom gulped. "Sorry, poor choice of words."

Once he'd finished his observations, he began to hum the bars to a well-known ballad that had a lively pace and helped his companions to focus on their tasks as he lent his small hands to whatever chore was needed.

"A-rafting we will go, a-rafting we will go,
All aboard that's going aboard,
A-rafting we soon go...!"

Varianna nods to Nomerendal, glad someone knew a bit about being on the water. She never really liked it much. "I have some rope we can use to help bind the raft together." she says, producing 50ft of silk rope. She knew a little bit about how machinery worked but crafting a raft was not her forte. Still, her skilled hands could tie good knots.

Arell sighs as he's used as a look-out post.  He knew there was a reason he never had kids...

Once Rendal's done, Arell draws his sword and considers it a moment.  It wasn't really meant for this kind of work, but he had used it on tougher stuff than a bunch of trees.

So he got to work.

OOC:
17:47, Today: Arell Kirkwood rolled 22 using 1d20+4.  DC 10 STR Aid Another.

I've got the STR roll.  Details are vague in case someone wants to pick the trees using WIS.

Tarack looked at his companions and animals. The one idea in his head was that it was very likely that all of them where going to be very wet. A raft should be simple, but ....

At least he had an axe and knew how to use it.


20:19, Today: Tarack Bulslagson rolled 13 using 1d20+11.  Survival.

Rennick uses the handaxe, which he has especially bought for this purpose, to cut trees and remove branches from them.
He carries the tree beams to the place where the raft is going to be constructed.
He put down the supplies which he had bought for constructing the raft near Veriana:

Hempen rope (50 feet)
25 nails
hammer and handaxe (this one after he's ready with cutting trees).

OOC: Rennick is not the one going to make the craft check, cause his INT is only 10! 11:10, Today: Rennick Hitman rolled 5 using 1d20+2.
Con check DC 10 aid another.
This message was last edited by the player at 09:15, Fri 20 Oct 2017.

so we have a DC 18 Target Number for the craft check.

Variana and Arell have both succeeded at aid another with 2 +2's making it a effectively a 14

Rennick Failed.

left to roll for either the actual craft check- Lorn, Nomerendel, Tarack. One of these three have to make the formal check. the other 2 the aid another. If you fail, youll still have a raft just each subsequent crossing theres a chance it will come apart or sink.....the alternative is swimming.... or going up stream to the shallower streams that can be forded. which will add a lot of time.

Tarack takes it upon himself to make the raft. He is not really sure how it is done, but seen enough lumber floated down the river to give it a go. Once the job is done, he pretty much acts as though it is something he does every day.

Tarack Bulslagson rolled 19 using 1d20+2.  Craft Raft.

Between Tarack's guiding hand and Arell's strong arm cutting trees, Nomerendal pointing out the right trees and foliage to help and Varianas deft fingers in raiding rope and tieing knots the group has a raft that can carry even Lorns horse across. It will take but one trip for the lot of you, so well crafted is it.

Tarack give yourself a bonus skill point in Craft Rivercraft.

Nomerendal stood with hands on hips and observed the companions' work with a critical eye. "I should say that those lads in my tale ought to have invited the lot of you on their outing! Well done indeed! By the Bones Tarack! I never would have guessed you were so talented! It's a wonder the loggers haven't recruited you."

The little gnome hopped aboard gamely, though it should be noted that he stood very near the center of the raft...

"That spot on the far bank which Arell helped me find should be our target. Isn't this exciting?" He glanced nervously across to what seemed now to be a very far shore.

Rennick was amazed by the dwarf's skill in crafting the raft.
"This is wonderful, Tarack, really, outstanding, I think we can all get to the other side! I'm so proud of our cooperation in this endeavour!"
This message was last edited by the player at 18:37, Fri 20 Oct 2017.

Lorn had been standing look out during the crafting of the raft. But mostly he didn't want to be in the way. He had no experience crafting wood and wasn't the physical type either so his contribution in this matter were limited. To make matters worse, he didn't relish the thought of crossing water either since he didn't know how to swim. But everyone seemed pleased with the craft so he set his faith in their skill and in Pharasma. If she wanted him sooner rather than later, so be it.

All of this would have gone unnoticed by his company unless they were paying very close attention to him, as his thoughts were only betrayed by some facial expressions of uneasiness. Lorn lead Helga, his horse, on the raft. It soothed his nerves to see how calm the mere was despite being the first time on any sailing vessel to his knowledge.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:05, Fri 20 Oct 2017.

as The Raft was repared to cross the 150 feet of water, Rennick gathered up the hammer, nails and saw he had brought. the majority of rope he had brought had been put to good use.

The group had 3 stout 20 foot poles to assist in manuevering the raft across the river. It was easily 50 foot square with stout logs and bindings. easily able to take everyone across in one trip...and so they began to load up...

Arell, Rennick, and Varianna took poles and began pushing off...while tarack calmed the animals. Nomerendel stayed towards the center..and Lorn stayed near his horse...

13:40, Today: DM Dread rolled 76 using 1d100.  15% river encounter.

Though all had heard about the dangers of the forest, so far nothing had appeared to give pause...

I need whoever wants to roll either a survival check or aknowledge nature check both dc 15 to manuever straight across the river. How far you fail determines how far downstream you end up. only a natural 1 will cause you to capsize. Only 1 roll allowed. ...there can be only 1 ship capt ;)

Tarack guides the raft across the river while trying to compensate for the current and avoiding other driftwood.

08:10, Today: Tarack Bulslagson rolled 27 using 1d20+11.  Survival .

The raft easily is navigated with tarack pointing out the currents and the shoals for the party to mauever with...until they arrive at the other side and beach the raft, getting off it and then before they head out towards the monastery, they briefly think...what do we do with the raft. Its now early afternoon.

It will be dark by the time they reach the ruins.

"Not bad, not bad at all!" Nom congratulated Tarack on his navigation of the river. "Nothing nearly as exciting as a giant raft-eating whirlpool, but look! We've gotten a long way today! I suppose we ought to tie off the raft here and somehow mark our location?"

The gnome took a final longing look over the river, vowing to himself to one day return to this location and try the depths for fish as big as himself.

The woods on this side seemed a little darker, but then again perhaps it was the time of day. All the same, Nomerendal took his shortbow from across his back and used his knee to string it. "Ready when the rest of you are!" he announced.

Tarack stroked his beard "Lets drag the raft in the bushes over here and cover it with some brush. We will use it to get back across as well."

"I think it will be dark by the time we reach the ruins. Now that won't bother me much ... and some of you have better than average vision ... but we should take a poll if we want to search the ruins in darkness. It may be good to camp some distance from it and enter at first light."

Arell weathers the crossing with his usual stoic cussedness.  One of these days he was going to get himself one of them bottomless bags so he wouldn't have to worry about leaving crap behind...like a wood axe, or a shovel.

He considers Tarrack's point and he doesn't like it one bit, "People will start dying by the night after next.  If we think we can grab everything, even if we stop now, then let's not take the risk.  If we can't, well, then the risk is worth it."

Varianna assists in hiding the raft, just in case they need it in the future. "I think time is not our ally and we should press forward if possible. Arell is right. she says.

Rennick says: "yes, it's a good idea to drag the raft to the bushes. I'll leave the rest of the rope, which we used to craft it, there too.
It may be dangerous to enter the ruins by dark, but we don't have much choice. We're in a terrible hurry."

Its takes the whole party to pull the raft up onto the shore as large as it is, and then hiding it becomes the task at hand.

Satisfied that only direct scrutiny will discover their way back across the river the party begins the trek in the direction of Droskars Crucible, the ruins of the Dwarven Monestary. The forest does indeed become thicker and darker for the first few hours and going is slow through the Forested hills. Its dank and darker and spirits sink a bit beneath the thick boughs of The Darkwood.


Soon the travel goes more up than nought as you begin the climb into the foothills of the mountains and the forest begins to lighten. Its not too long before they find a worn footpath leading to the once proud monestary. Sitting squat at the foot of an imposing mountain, a ruined monastery comes into view between ancient gnarled trees. Made of simple stone blocks, worn smooth with the passage of time, the stout building is falling apart. Sections of the slanted shale roof have collapsed and portions of the outer wall have crumbled. Weeds and wild thorn plants run rampant across the field leading up to the place, leaving only the slightest indication of a path that ends
at the ruined front doors. Beyond, an overgrown yard sits in shadow.

Map: https://1drv.ms/i/s!Aptb6Vt5lI7mnloAkZTYqFDffwX5

Tarack looks over the place and mumbles a bit to himself "Hope there are no goblins or other critters there." Then a bit louder to the rest "There is no way all of us will be silent and unseen in that place. The footing is too perilous to travel without a light and we are searching for mushrooms. We may as well go through the front door and see whats around. I'm going in first ... I can be silent and I see in darkness."

Before moving forward, Tarack casts a spell on himself to give him a bit of an edge (Guidance).

19:55, Today: Tarack Bulslagson rolled 8 using 1d20+5.  Stealth.
This message was last edited by the player at 00:42, Thu 26 Oct 2017.

Nomerendal crept along, finding the prospect of exploring old ruins - in the dark - both exhilarating and frightening at the same time. He had his small bow at the ready. "Who's got a torch?" he asked quietly.

Rennick lights his lamp using flint and steel.
He then moves very quietly after Tarack towards the entrance of the monastery.

OOC: 11:11, Today: Rennick Hitman rolled 24 using 1d20+5.  Stealth.
This message was last edited by the player at 09:12, Thu 26 Oct 2017.

The group paused at the base of the rise to look at the looming ruins in the moonlit darkness.

Then started forward slowly. Variana moving off to the side and looking around as she went, alert...

Rennick lit a lantern and started up behind Tarack who took point. Devise moving behind him growling low in her throat...ears flattened.  Buddy seemed nervous as well. As if they could smell something he couldnt.

Lorn was leading his horse up the slope when suddenly the horse started moving around very skittishly and pulled him slightly off the path.

In the night a howl ocurred...then another....and yet another...and then in the shadows off to the left...3 wolves appeared hunched down and eyeing the horse Lorn was leading .......


Party has initiative...though the wolves are not flat footed.



Picture of Monastery: https://1drv.ms/i/s!Aptb6Vt5lI7mnmHGkR9I2UwlwcVb

Map: https://1drv.ms/i/s!Aptb6Vt5lI7mnmYwkS08wOheOAs2

Combat Summary

Arell AC:16(T-11/FF-15)CMD:16 HP:10/10 FO:+2 RE:+1 WL:+1
1st Paladin Human Male

Nomerendal AC:16(T-14/FF-13) CMD:+11 HP:10/10 FO:+2 RE:+5 WL:+1
1st Bard Gnome Male Defensive Training: +4 dodge vs monsters (giant subtype)
Illusion Resistance: +2 save bonus vs illusion spells & effects.

Lorn AC:19(T-13/FF-16)CMD:12 HP:08/08 FO:1 RE:3 WL:6
1st Cleric of Human Male defenses, +1 vs spells(necromancy) and negative energy damage.

Horse AC:11(T-11/FF-9) CMD:17(21 vs trip) HP:15/15 FO:+6 RE:+5 WL:+1
Mount Large Animal

Rennick AC:14(T-11/FF-13)CMD:16 HP:13/13 FO:+4 RE:+3 WL:0
1st Ranger Human Male +1 saves Vs vision affects

Tarack AC:16(T-12/FF-14)CMD:12 HP:10/10 FO:+4 RE:+2 WL:+5
1st Druid Dwarf Male defenses

Devise AC:17(T-16/FF-12)CMD:17 Trip-21 HP:19/19 FO:+4 RE:+8 WL:+1
Leopard  Animal Companion

Buddy AC:15(T-12/FF-13)CMD:15 Trip-19 HP:11/11 FO:+4 Re:+5 WL:+2
Ram Pet

Variana AC:16(T-14/FF-12)CMD:15 HP:8/8 FO:+0 RE:+6 WL:+0
1st Rogue Elf Female (Immunity to Sleep Effects, +2 on Saves vs Enchantment Spells & Effects)

vs

Wolf (x3) AC:14(T-12/FF-12)CMD:14(18 vs Trip) HP:17/17,17/17,17/17 FO:+5 RE:+5 WL:+1
Animal
This message had punctuation tweaked by the GM at 14:23, Sun 29 Oct 2017.

Rennick puts the lamp down in his square, so that he can fight with both hands, and readies an action:
If at any time this round a wolf comes within 10 feet of Rennick, he will attack it with the longsword in both his hands.
If necessary he takes a 5' step towards the wolf.

Rennick says: "get the horse out of the way, before the wolves attack it!"

OOC: my actions are as follows:
1. put the lamp down in his square = move action
2. ready an attack with his longsword on a wolf, when it comes within 10' = standard action
The readied action can include a 5' step.

You can ready a standard action, a move action, or a free action. To do so, specify the action you will take and the conditions under
which you will take it. Then, any time before your next action, you may take the readied action in response to that condition.

Arell snarls and draws his sword.  He takes several steps to put himself between the wolves and the rest of the party.  He holds his sword ready to strike, anything that tries to get past him will be sorry for the rest of its life.

OOC: I move 30 ft to square 27, 19 and ready attack action against the first wolf that enters my threaten area.

15:43, Today: Arell Kirkwood rolled 10 using 1d20+5.  Attack Roll vs Wolf 1 DC 14.--using same attack roll I made earlier for simplicity's sake
This message was last edited by the player at 04:41, Sat 28 Oct 2017.

Alerted to the wolves' presence by the flickering of the horse's ears, Nomerendal looked up to see them approaching. He turned, raised his bow and fired a shot at the closest of the trio. He then stepped back where Arrel had been before the much taller man had rushed forward in defense of the party.

"Go on! Leave us be! You'll not find us an easy meal!"


Attack: Shortbow on lead wolf, (Nomerendal Tunespinner rolled 16) hit for (Nomerendal Tunespinner rolled 2) 2 damage.
Move: Backup 10' to [33,20]

Tarack was surprised that such a small pack of wolves were attempting to attack a large party such as this. As pack animals, they would naturally prefer to go after a single target.

Tarack put a calming hand on his ram before casting magic of nature (Speak with Animals; 1 min) and addressing the wolves:

"Stop brothers! There are too many of us and we are all prepared to fight. You would do much better to seek you meal elsewhere tonight."

please anyone readying an attack. Roll and post. So when in summarizing I don't have to wait for a player to roll. The idea is one post per player per round of combat.

Any conditionals should be posted...ie I do this if this occurs.

You'll see it works well.

Just like Spellcasters roll the monsters saves and I'll roll players saves...it moves along better.
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:43, Sun 29 Oct 2017.

Varianna draws her rapier and a dagger. She is holding the dagger by the tip and is poised to throw it.

OOC: Readying to throw if any wolf comes within 10 ft.

In reply to DM Dread (msg # 70):

Okay: to hit 21, damage 13
10:07, Today: Rennick Hitman rolled 13 using 1d8+6.  damage with longsword two-handed.
10:06, Today: Rennick Hitman rolled 21 using 1d20+5.  readied attack with longsword.

Rennick took a step forward and told Lorn to get his horse back, readying his blade.

The Old Clerk, Arell moved forward quickly, placing himself between the wolves and the party, also drawing his blade and preparing to strike should they get close.

Nomerendal took a few steps back, while loosing an arrow towards the wolves, shouting at them in his squeaky Gnome voice, which to say the least was not very scary....hover his arrow clipped the ear tip off the lead wol,. before embedding in a tree behind him.

A good time to talk about my rules for recovering missiles. I make it a little easier. No rolls. You hit, its recoverable. You miss its not. so dont subtract the arrow if you hit. and just mention afterwards you are recovering your arrows.

Tarack took a step to his left so he could watch the wolves reaction and place himself between them and Buddy who was not pleased in the least to be here with these wolves..ad snorted and pulled against the rope in Taracks other hand as he led the Ram. Devise gave a low growl and was low to the ground, ears back as it turned to face one of its ancient enemies...Dont forget handle animal checks if you want animals to do things or act contrary to their nature. He then said a few words in the ancient druid tongue and with a few gestures from his free hand, began to bark, yip and growl at the wolves.

Variana turned and pulled a dagger and rapier in a fluid motion, then flipped the dagger over in the air to catch it by its tip ready to throw...

Lorn tried to calm his horse who had the look of panic in its eyes, ears flat against its head...it wasnt trained for combat, and this was just beyond its capabilities...it was all Lorn could do to keep hold of the rope attached to its bridle and pull it away from the wolves

The lead wolf glanced at its brethren after Tarack spoke and said in a low growl of canine speak  then the one he looked at growled back

Then the lead wolf loped forward to Arell who swung his sword as it got close, the blade slicing through the air above the wolves shoulders. 07:53, Today: DM Dread rolled 18 using 1d20+2.  attack on Arell AC 16. The wolf seemed to be used to fighting humans as it ducked beneath the sword blade and grabbed at Arells Ankle 07:54, Today: DM Dread rolled 7 using 1d6+1.  damage to Arell. 07:56, Today: DM Dread rolled 12 using 1d20+2.  Combat Manuever to trip Arell CMD 16., the fangs sinking into his foot through the leather of his boot, but pull as it did, The Paladin retained his footing, though for certain pain was arching up his leg for the teeth had bitten deep.

The second wolf headed to Arells right and snapped at the Former clerk 08:00, Today: DM Dread rolled 14 using 1d20+2.  attack on Arell AC 16., but missed as Arell was pulling his leg out of the first wolves mouth.

The third wolf went to Arells left but the Paladin swung his blade first and lopped its head off.

(Arell you do get an attack of opportunity swing on one of the wolves who wen t to either side. Should you kill one Ill negate the damage of its attack.)

Map: https://1drv.ms/i/s!Aptb6Vt5lI7mnnBbpjhV4oiErq4Q

Combat Summary

Arell AC:16(T-11/FF-15)CMD:16 HP:10/3 FO:+2 RE:+1 WL:+1
1st Paladin Human Male

Nomerendal AC:16(T-14/FF-13) CMD:+11 HP:10/10 FO:+2 RE:+5 WL:+1
1st Bard Gnome Male Defensive Training: +4 dodge vs monsters (giant subtype)
Illusion Resistance: +2 save bonus vs illusion spells & effects.

Lorn AC:19(T-13/FF-16)CMD:12 HP:08/08 FO:1 RE:3 WL:6
1st Cleric of Human Male defenses, +1 vs spells(necromancy) and negative energy damage.

Horse AC:11(T-11/FF-9) CMD:17(21 vs trip) HP:15/15 FO:+6 RE:+5 WL:+1
Mount Large Animal

Rennick AC:14(T-11/FF-13)CMD:16 HP:13/13 FO:+4 RE:+3 WL:0
1st Ranger Human Male +1 saves Vs vision affects

Tarack AC:16(T-12/FF-14)CMD:12 HP:10/10 FO:+4 RE:+2 WL:+5
1st Druid Dwarf Male defenses

Devise AC:17(T-16/FF-12)CMD:17 Trip-21 HP:19/19 FO:+4 RE:+8 WL:+1
Leopard  Animal Companion

Buddy AC:15(T-12/FF-13)CMD:15 Trip-19 HP:11/11 FO:+4 Re:+5 WL:+2
Ram Pet

Variana AC:16(T-14/FF-12)CMD:15 HP:8/8 FO:+0 RE:+6 WL:+0
1st Rogue Elf Female (Immunity to Sleep Effects, +2 on Saves vs Enchantment Spells & Effects)

vs

Wolf (x3) AC:14(T-12/FF-12)CMD:14(18 vs Trip) HP:17/15,17/17, FO:+5 RE:+5 WL:+1
Animal
This message was last edited by the GM at 16:27, Sun 29 Oct 2017.

Arell nearly whites out from the pain.  Its moments like these where he regrets getting old.  If he was younger...if he'd trained more...

No.  This is fine.  This is what he wanted.  The monsters attack him.  Not anyone else...no one else needed to be hurt...

Except for them.

Out of the corner of his eye he see the two wolves trying to flank him.  He dodges one and cleaves his sword through the other.  Poor thing probably didn't know what hit it.

He kills the bastard that got his leg on the backswing.  Two down, one to go...just gotta stay conscious until then.


AoO vs wolf 3
10:45, Today: Arell Kirkwood rolled 16 using 1d20+4 ((12)).  I hit.

Damage

10:47, Today: Arell Kirkwood rolled 19 using 2d6+9.  Damage roll vs wolf 3.  Wolf 3 Dies

I regain 2 (?) HP since it never got to attack.

Normal attack vs wolf 1.

10:52, Today: Arell Kirkwood rolled 17 using 1d20+4.  Attack vs wolf 1 power attack DC 14 reroll because dice roller went nuts.  I hit.


10:53, Today: Arell Kirkwood rolled 17 using 2d6+9.  Damage roll vs wolf 1.

THAT'S why I don't carry a shield.

Varianna rushes forward to her surrounded companion, striking at the nearest wolf with her rapier in fluid motion.

OOC:

11:06, Today: Variana rolled 15,4 using d20+6,d6+1.  Attack, Damage.

Rennick moves forward and attacks the one remaining wolf (2) with his longsword.

OOC: using previous rolls: to hit 21, damage 13, wielding longsword two handed.

After Arell dispatched the first 2 wolves. Rennick and Variana were quick to kill the 3rd.

Lorn regained control of his horse though he kept looking around wildly his nostrils flaring...and both Devise and Buddy acted like there were still predators around.

end combat

Nomerendal eased the arrow he'd had drawn and let out a sigh. "Well done!" he declared with sincere admiration. "For a grumpy desk-warrior, I must say that was impressive... oh, Arell, you're really pale, and why are you sweating? I wonder if you shouldn't sit down for a moment..."

Nom quickly fetched his arrow and then came to Arell's side in order to lend his small shoulder to steady the wobbly paladin.

"Odd that there were only the three... not a larger pack. Seems like there would be more. Unless they were very, very hungry... or rabid." Nomerendal gulped and then glanced up to see if there was any foam forming at Arell's mouth.

The gnome made a gesture with his hand and the lantern, which had been resting on the ground, lifted as if by an unseen grasp, floating closer to the paladin that it might illuminate any symptoms.

Mage Hand cantrip on the lantern ;-)

Rennick walks back to his own lamp and picks it up in his left hand, while still wielding his longsword in his right hand.
He says: "You're an awesome fighter, Arell. I must say, however, that it's not wise to move towards wolves. I've learned to stay
put and stare the wolves down, when I was living with half elves in the forest. If you're stationary, they will often leave you alone as
uninteresting, or even regard you as one of their equals. "

Arell let's out a wheezing breath and hobbles (with Rendal's help) over to a loose chunk of masonry to have a seat.

Complaining the whole time.

"If they weren't...gonna listen...to Tarrack's mumbo jumbo.  They weren't gonna...view us as equals...if we did nothing."

As he sits down he let's out a long sigh of relief, "But...in retrospect, yes, that was kinda stupid.  I was thinkin' an aggressive stance might scare 'em off...shows what I know, eh?"

He shrugs a bit to get his pack off his shoulders, and looks down at his rather mangled leg. "Anyone good with bandages?

Varianna shakes her head in response to the question on bandaging. Serious wounds was not something she had to deal with, especially something as bad as a wolf bite. She took a few moments to look over the wolves to see if there was anything odd with them.

Tarack moves up to examine Arell's wounds. "That is quite nasty. Let me try some ... mumbo jumbo here." Using some crushed oak leaves and maple sap, Tarack distracted the paladin long enough to cast a healing spell.

"There. Good as new. Oh and I have some bad news. That is not all of them. Apparently there are more wolves around here. Not sure how many, but we are sure to run into others."

20:35, Today: Tarack Bulslagson rolled 8 using 1d8+1.  CLW.

Rennick answers: "Let's try to find those ironstool plants quickly then."
With his lamp in his left hand, Rennick looks around the monastery for ironsoot stools plants.

OOC: 10:40, Today: Rennick Hitman rolled 18 using 1d20+4.  Perception looking for ironsoot stools mushrooms.

Tarack kneels next to Arell and holds his hands over the wounds of his foot and warm white light soothes the ache, heeling the damage done by the wolf bite. Meanwhile Variana and Rennick move towards the fallen gate to the courtyard.

Before entering the yard, the path passes between a pair of old stone statues. While one of them is little more than rubble, the other is relatively intact. The 5 foot tall statue is incredibly worn but it can still be made out as a dwarf holding aloft a great stone hammer. Moss and creeper vines cover most of its surface.

Tall grasses and chunks of stone debris have all but overtaken this small yard. Off to one side, a wooden stable has collapsed into a mound of rotting timbers and moldy straw. The outer
wall on the east side has also collapsed, leaving a ragged hole. Three doors exit into this yard— a pair of double doors to the east, a single door to the north, and a lone door leading into the squat tower in the southeast corner.

A well hides in the northwest corner of the yard, with 10 feet of rope dangling into it.

Map: https://1drv.ms/i/s!Aptb6Vt5lI7mnnRGdj_GGTZyqH8o

Arell sighs in relief as Tarrack's spell works, "Tarrack, remind me to never call what you do "mumbo jumbo" again..."

He gets to his feet, and tests his leg before falling into line behind Rennick and Varianna.  If there were more wolves he'd have to be ready for them.

Nom looked troubled at the verification of other predators out there. The little gnome knew that would be but a morsel to whet the appetite should he fall to one of them. He was about to enter the courtyard when the statue of the dwarf caught his eye and he took a moment to look it over. "I wonder who he was... looks like he's been here a while," Nomerendal noted.

Perception: Take 10 (15 total)

"That stable looks mostly intact, perhaps we ought to barricade the animals in there while we poke around." He suggested.

...and remembering the poisoned well which Arell had helped him to spider down into, Nom went there next to take a peek.

Perception: Take 10 (15 total)

Tarack nodded to Arheell, besides he knew the man was kidding and was grateful as well for the man's skills with the sword.

While his spell which allowed him to talk with animals was still up, Tarack to Buddy the ram and Lorn's horse letting them know that everything is fine, that the group is here to find good herbs so as to make others well.

Tarack then proceeded towards the gates, but stopped to examine the statue.

Nomerendal scampered into the courtyard and over to the well. As he approached he could make out a long dead body laying in the tall grass next to the well. Before moving to the body, The gnome paused at the well and getting up on his tip toes he looked down inside . The water was about 30 feet down though the rope only went to 10. a bucket and 20' of rope lay floating in the dark water.

Rennick and Variana stood near the gateway and watched.

Lorn began to lead his horse into the courtyard, though the horse seemed skittish

Devise crept over to the gate and peered inside as only cats do.

Tarack paused to look over the statue of the dwarf, however the vines obscured it farily badly. Buddy looked on like he was helping....

Arell looked around the sword across his knees while he watched Tarack at the statue

Map: https://1drv.ms/i/s!Aptb6Vt5lI7mnn1zGcejIRizdJsf

"Tarrack!" Nomerendal whispered loudly. "There's someone here!" He pointed to the tall grass where the body lay. Having heard - and told - many stories of undesirable consequences from dealing with the long dead, the little gnome was reluctant to touch it before one of his more sturdy companions was within comfortable proximity.
This message was last edited by the player at 15:41, Tue 31 Oct 2017.

Lorn lead the skittish mare into the courtyard and to the left. Then find a way to tie the horses reins to the withered stalls. "There, there." he whispers to the horse as he pets it's side.

Needing light to navigate by in the dark courtyard, Lorn reaches down and finds a suitable palm sized rock and mumbles a spell. Half of the rocks surface begins to shine a white light. Lorn turns the rock around and uses it to navigate by while walking slowly to where Nomerendal is standing over by the well.

Tie horse up near x31 y12

Cantrip: Light -> on the rock.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:41, Tue 31 Oct 2017.

Tarack moves closer to examine the body the gnome found. At first he casts a Resistance spell on himself, just in case - there is more than one disease that can cling to a corpse.  Once Tarack is satisfied that the body is truly just that, he will examine it to determine as to what may have happened.

10:43, Today: Tarack Bulslagson rolled 27 using 1d20+7.  Perception.
10:43, Today: Tarack Bulslagson rolled 16 using 1d20+3.  Heal.

Seeing that the gnome and the dwarf had come together at the well and that they were investigating something on the ground,
Rennick decided to move over to the well as well.
He looks at the body and tried to see whether it was human or not.
He also looks around the courtyard for any mushrooms, esp. ironsoot Stools.

Arell follows behind the group eyes shifting warily for ambush.

Tarrack said there were more wolves, and Arell was inclined to believe him

OOC: wow I'm batting zeros with these perception rolls


16:23, Today: Arell Kirkwood rolled 7 using 1d20+2.  Perception for ambush.

The group slowly moved into the courtyard and at Nomerendals comment headed over to the well.

Lorn ties the horse in the remains of the stable, and cast light on a rock, shining it on the body.

Tarack looks over the body and can tell that it was mostly devoured. Cracked bones with little marrow and tattered remnants of flesh cling to parts of the skeletal frame. The majority of his gear has been taken, however tucked away in some grass nearby is the tattered remains of his backpack.

Rennick starts looking ear the well for the tell tale mushrooms.

From there vantage point they can make out a little of the first room of the Monastery Beyond the double doors is a small dark hall. Littered with mounds of debris and a year’s worth of dead leaves, it is clear that a narrow path winds inside.


Map: https://1drv.ms/i/s!Aptb6Vt5lI7mnwBrBi-0eEuD9_dr
This message was last edited by the GM at 00:16, Thu 02 Nov 2017.

Tarack shakes his head "Looks like the wolves got him ... although I am not sure why they would leave even that much."

Tarack goes to examine the back pack (cast Detect Magic). Perhaps there maybe something useful there.

Tarack bent down and shook out the contents of the tattered back pack...week’s worth of trail rations,  a case when opened showed a set of thieves tools, 50 feet of silk rope, a small
coinpurse with 42 gp in assorted coins, and a small blue vial that glowed white and purple beneath his magical gaze showing conjuration magic and healing magic...

Lorn bends down to examine the teeth mark on the bones and the remaining flesh.

06:44, Today: Lorn rolled 26 using 1d20+8.  Heal; teeth marks.

"Well, that might explain somewhat why the wolves were so aggressive. We've just invited ourselves to their dinner... I just hope we don't end up being dinner for their late-running relatives! Suppose we oughtn't leave the contents of his backpack out here, after all, the wolves have little use for such things."

Glancing to see if anyone else might volunteer to lead the way, Nom suggested, "I suppose we should probably go inside... perhaps?"

Examining the tooth marks Lorn agrees they are wolves. However one set of bite marks indicate its a rather large wolf.

"This mans flesh was devoured by canines however, if you look here" he says pointing with his hand and moving the light closer to the indicated wound. "These teeth marks look bigger than the ones our defeated friends outside could make."

Tarack readies his large wooden shield

"We do indeed need need to go inside. What do you say Variana? Seems like its right up your alley?"

Meanwhile Tarack orders his companion and his ram to follow him (COME)

Rennick stops looking for the iron soot mushrooms, because he remembered they were only to be found near the forges.
Strange, he thought, they must grow without any natural light. Perhaps they need an artifical light to shine on them?

He says to the others: "We need to find the forge in this building. I think you may have noticed that I'm moving very silently if I think it's necessary. I can follow Variana at a small distance. I wouldn't send her in alone, she would be the target of any wolves or monsters there."

"After we've gotten this mess all sorted out back in town, I'd be glad to accompany yourself and any of your kinsmen to come back out here and dispose of the remains. Unfortunately, we're short on time right now..." Nom offered to Tarack.

"Lead on then," Nom said while falling somewhere into the line.

Seeing that the elf was a bit hesitant, Tarack shrugged and proceeded to the doorway in the north west corner.

Rennick follows Tarack. As Tarack didn't move silently, Rennick didn't either.

Arell follows after the Rennick.  Dead bodies were nice and all but they had a job to do.

And part of his job was making sure nobody else died.

He feels the old paranoia of jobs long past.  Jobs where some ugly thing was waiting right by the door to try and kill everyone in the easy pinch point.

He hoped the druid knew what he was doing.

Varianna takes a while to look around and gets a bit lost in thought, not hearing the offer to go first. She quickly gets up to the front and begins inspecting the building for any hazards.
"Sorry, I got a spacey there. We should be careful with old buildings like this, they can be unstable if the ground has shifted since they were built." she explains.

Tarack nods "No problem lass, but lets keep our wits about us. This is no place to start dreaming."

Aware that he is the only one here with Darkvision, Tarack tries to take in everything as a threat can come from any direction.

Tarack gathers up the items in the pack and looks at the others and heads for the cracked double doors leading into the chamber virtually covered in debris, a narrow path has been worn through the leaves. Slowly the party advances into the chamber seeing hallways branching left and right offve it, with more doorways. Two doors lead out of the foyer left and right as well.

The cracked doorway of what looks like a shrine is at the end, and the party glances in it before deciding where to go. Variana diligently has been examining the area for anything hard to notice without focusing on doorways and hasnt found anything dangerous...yet.

looking through the double doors can be seen Pews of darkwood lie tipped over and covered in dust on either side of this ancient shrine. At the far end sits a large ceremonial anvil, but its surface is defaced and ruined.

Map: https://1drv.ms/i/s!Aptb6Vt5lI7mnwqOKxb_a6WtV6rh

Varianna enters the room and looks around the room. She beckons the party to follow. She takes a brief glance at the anvil before examining the door to the south in detail.

Lorn stays at the rear in the doorway and looks behind. Making sure that the horse is still calm and content. Then scans the roof tops and courtyard for any pursuers.



09:01, Today: Lorn rolled 20 using 1d20+4.  Perception.

Rennick searches for traps on the first two pews to the left.


09:49, Today: Rennick Hitman rolled 22 using 1d20+4.  Perception: search for traps on first pew.

Tarack follows along and takes a central position looking around for any threats while the others search.

Nomerendal peeked through the doorway next to Lorn and noticed the Anvil on the far side of the room. He made a series of gestures and motions to the others toward it. The heaviness of the dwarven monastery seemed to weigh on the little gnome. He was grateful for such companions, and wondered, far in the back of his mind, if heroes ever felt that way, the ones who traveled on real adventures...

Variana moved into the room and headed to the Strange looking Altar of the chapel as she begins to examineit she notices 5 small depressions oval in shape atop the stone block in a semi circle around the Hammer.

The others entered as well. Rennick moving off to the left among the pews, slowly examining around them Tarack pausing center of the room and looking around. Arell a swell. Devise curiously was looking under pews then stopped and his ears went up and he looked up towards the ceiling. Of Course Tarack looked up as well, as did Lorn as he entered.

It was then that three small stones began to fall radiating out Globes of Darkness as they fell.

Normal Vision/Low Light Vision:

---

Spoiler text: (Highlight or hover over the text to view)
The Room is plunged into Darkness and your eyes are trying to quickly adjust as you find yourself unable to see.

---

Darkvision:

---

Spoiler text: (Highlight or hover over the text to view)
You see three multi tentacled creatures floating down from the vaulted cieling where they had hidden.

---

The Room is in Darkness.

All creatures gain concealment (20% miss chance) in dim light. All creatures gain total concealment (50% miss chance) in darkness. Creatures with darkvision can see in an area of dim light or darkness without penalty. Nonmagical sources of light, such as torches and lanterns, do not increase the light level in an area of darkness. Magical light sources only increase the light level in an area if they are of a higher spell level than darkness.

The party can act.

Map: https://1drv.ms/i/s!Aptb6Vt5lI7mnxIVwbx0FaclrNE9

Combat Summary

Arell AC:16(T-11/FF-15)CMD:16 HP:10/10 FO:+2 RE:+1 WL:+1
1st Paladin Human Male

Nomerendal AC:16(T-14/FF-13) CMD:+11 HP:10/10 FO:+2 RE:+5 WL:+1
1st Bard Gnome Male Defensive Training: +4 dodge vs monsters (giant subtype)
Illusion Resistance: +2 save bonus vs illusion spells & effects.

Lorn AC:19(T-13/FF-16)CMD:12 HP:08/08 FO:1 RE:3 WL:6
1st Cleric of Human Male defenses, +1 vs spells(necromancy) and negative energy damage.

Horse AC:11(T-11/FF-9) CMD:17(21 vs trip) HP:15/15 FO:+6 RE:+5 WL:+1
Mount Large Animal

Rennick AC:14(T-11/FF-13)CMD:16 HP:13/13 FO:+4 RE:+3 WL:0
1st Ranger Human Male +1 saves Vs vision affects

Tarack AC:16(T-12/FF-14)CMD:12 HP:10/10 FO:+4 RE:+2 WL:+5
1st Druid Dwarf Male defenses

Devise AC:17(T-16/FF-12)CMD:17 Trip-21 HP:19/19 FO:+4 RE:+8 WL:+1
Leopard  Animal Companion

Buddy AC:15(T-12/FF-13)CMD:15 Trip-19 HP:11/11 FO:+4 Re:+5 WL:+2
Ram Pet

Variana AC:16(T-14/FF-12)CMD:15 HP:8/8 FO:+0 RE:+6 WL:+0
1st Rogue Elf Female (Immunity to Sleep Effects, +2 on Saves vs Enchantment Spells & Effects)

vs

Darkmantle AC:15(T-13/FF-13)CMD:13 (Cant be Tripped) HP:20/20,20/20,20/20 FO:+5 RE:+3 WL:+0
Small Magical Beast
This message was last edited by the GM at 12:55, Thu 09 Nov 2017.

Arell was expecting more wolves.  Well wolves or something similar: giant rats, a bear, maybe some sort of small fire elemental, starving after the forge had died out.

Not...whatever this was that had doused all their lights at once.

This particular feeling was encapsulated with a word that ought not be spoken around young children...or Rendal.  Arell said it anyway, with gusto.

He drew his sword and fell to a guarding stance...swinging this blasted thing in the small room when he couldn't see would likely do more harm than good.

OOC: Arell goes to "Total Defense" or whatever it's called.  No action other than guarding--hopefully one of those suckers aims for me anyway--because once they do, I can take a swing at him.

Also I'm back to full health, Tarrack's Cure Light Wounds did the trick.
This message was last edited by the player at 15:16, Wed 08 Nov 2017.

Rennick puts down the lamp, which he was holding in his left hand and which is now useless.
He can't see anything. He holds his longsword in two hands now.
He waits for an attack, and readies a counterattack: if he's attacked, he attacks in the direction from which the attack came.

OOC: 16:02, Today: Rennick Hitman rolled 8 using 1d20+5.  Readied attack with longsword two handed. Miss!!
16:01, Today: Rennick Hitman rolled 19 using 1d20+1.  Initiative.

Lorn reflectively tried to recast Light on his stone then took up his dagger.

Cast Light on stone that is in his hand.

The little gnome's imagination was something of a local treasure, and when the darkness fell upon them, the first thing that leapt into his mind - and subsequently out of his mouth - was "Dark Elves!" Arell's choice of expletive didn't help matters any. Nearby, Nom heard the swish of a blade through the air and fully expected that Rennick, who'd been slightly ahead of him, might well take off his little head in this magical gloom!

"'Ware Rennick, I'm here!" the gnome announced.

"Don't worry friends! The Dark Elves are more afraid of you than you are of them! They use the darkness out of fright of their own. Show your mettle men! We'll not back down!" The little bard prattled on bravely, hoping to inspire those he came here with.

Action: Inspire Courage (Bardic Performance 6/7 rnds remain): An affected ally receives a +1 morale bonus on saving throws against charm and fear effects and a +1 competence bonus on attack and weapon damage rolls.
Move: Attempting to move back toward the doorway to 26,10 -ish... he'll stop as soon as he's outside of the darkness.

"No dark elves here. These are simple creatures that cause darkness and fall on top of you. I can see them. Get out, we can handle them easily once they are on the ground."

Tarack readies his club and gets ready to bash one of the Darkmantles, if one of them happens to land on someone.

Tarack casts a Guidance spell and waits.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:38, Wed 08 Nov 2017.

Varianna takes the advice to fall back, trying to use the wall as a guide to exit the darkness.

Arell went into a stance poised to defend....

Rennick panicked and swung his blade quickly, slicing a piece of pew off on the return.

Lorn tried to negate the magical darkness with the orison he had cast before and it s magic just wasnt powerful enough to do so...

Nomerendal starts telling a tale of inspiration as he moves out of the room...towards light and ends up leaving the building entirely before he comes out of the area the inhuman magic effected.

Tarack prays for guidance for his next strike...

Variana starts to exit the room and follows Nomerendal.

As the three Darkmantles fall from the ceiling intent on slamming into someone and wrapping them up in their tentacles 06:33, Today: DM Dread rolled 4,1,5 using 1d6,1d6,1d6.  1-Devise,2-Tarack,3-Buddy,4-Lorn,5-Rennick,6-Arell . 06:35, Today: DM Dread rolled 4,6,19 using 1d20+3,1d20+3,1d20+3.  Devise-AC 17,Lorn- AC 19, Rennick- AC 14. Devise ducked under the grasping tentacles as the body moved thre the air above its head and then it reached out...Lorn heard and felt the wind and raised his shield to ward off the assault. Rennick not so lucky, felt the body hit his but fended off the tentacles 06:39, Today: DM Dread rolled 3 using 1d4.  damage to Rennick. 06:38, Today: DM Dread rolled 11 using 1d20+5.  grapple on Rennick CMD 16.


The Room is in Darkness.

All creatures gain concealment (20% miss chance) in dim light. All creatures gain total concealment (50% miss chance) in darkness. Creatures with darkvision can see in an area of dim light or darkness without penalty. Nonmagical sources of light, such as torches and lanterns, do not increase the light level in an area of darkness. <b>Magical light sources only increase the light level in an area if they are of a higher spell level than darkness.</b>

The party can act.

Map: https://1drv.ms/i/s!Aptb6Vt5lI7mnx0YNRKXRXhRqQhX

Combat Summary

Arell AC:16(T-11/FF-15)CMD:16 HP:10/10 FO:+2 RE:+1 WL:+1
1st Paladin Human Male

Nomerendal AC:16(T-14/FF-13) CMD:+11 HP:10/10 FO:+2 RE:+5 WL:+1
1st Bard Gnome Male Defensive Training: +4 dodge vs monsters (giant subtype)
Illusion Resistance: +2 save bonus vs illusion spells & effects.

Lorn AC:19(T-13/FF-16)CMD:12 HP:08/08 FO:1 RE:3 WL:6
1st Cleric of Human Male defenses, +1 vs spells(necromancy) and negative energy damage.

Horse AC:11(T-11/FF-9) CMD:17(21 vs trip) HP:15/15 FO:+6 RE:+5 WL:+1
Mount Large Animal

Rennick AC:14(T-11/FF-13)CMD:16 HP:13/10 FO:+4 RE:+3 WL:0
1st Ranger Human Male +1 saves Vs vision affects

Tarack AC:16(T-12/FF-14)CMD:12 HP:10/10 FO:+4 RE:+2 WL:+5
1st Druid Dwarf Male defenses

Carl AC:17(T-16/FF-12)CMD:17 Trip-21 HP:19/19 FO:+4 RE:+8 WL:+1
Leopard  Animal Companion

Buddy AC:15(T-12/FF-13)CMD:15 Trip-19 HP:11/11 FO:+4 Re:+5 WL:+2
Ram Pet

Variana AC:16(T-14/FF-12)CMD:15 HP:8/8 FO:+0 RE:+6 WL:+0
1st Rogue Elf Female (Immunity to Sleep Effects, +2 on Saves vs Enchantment Spells & Effects)

vs

Darkmantle AC:15(T-13/FF-13)CMD:13 (Cant be Tripped) HP:20/20,20/20,20/20 FO:+5 RE:+3 WL:+0
Small Magical Beast
This message was last edited by the GM at 23:28, Fri 10 Nov 2017.

Tarack is not hindered by darkness, nut is hindered by his own inability at actual fighting. After directing his companion to attack the Darkmantle in the center, he ineptly attempts to hit it himself and almost hurts .... someone.

Carl, his cat companion, does not have these problems, it's low light vision allows it to connect several times.

+2 Damage for the Bard song. Not included in the rolls.

09:12, Today: Tarack Bulslagson rolled 3,3 using 1d4+1,1d2+1.  Carl Damage.
09:11, Today: Tarack Bulslagson rolled 9,57 using 1d20+7,1d100.
09:11, Today: Tarack Bulslagson rolled 23,23 using 1d20+7,1d100.
09:11, Today: Tarack Bulslagson rolled 22,81 using 1d20+7,1d100.  Carl attacks.
09:09, Today: Tarack Bulslagson rolled 3 using 1d20+2.  Attack+2 more if flanking   
This message was last edited by the player at 15:00, Fri 10 Nov 2017.

Rennick bites his teeth from the pain and tries to hit the dark mantle, which has just hit him.
However, his two-handed swing is again off the mark.
He asks: "Is someone standing behind me, or is it empty so that I can retreat?"

OOC: 15:31, Today: Rennick Hitman rolled 9 using 1d20+6.  attack roll on dark mantle in front of R, +1 inspire bonus.

Arell was starting to feel insulted.  Here he was...probably right in the middle of these blasted things, and being completely ignored!

Well it was best to make his displeasure known.

He shut his eyes and listened.  Tarrack was over there, Rennick was over there...so who the hell was behind him?

He wheeled around and cleaved into the darkness...feeling his sword hit something squishy and not at all human-like--he also felt said sword going completely through said thing.


09:59, Today: Arell Kirkwood rolled 22 using 1d20+7.  Attack vs Dark Mantle 10,24 Power Attack, +1 inspire, +2 flanking DC 15.


10:00, Today: Arell Kirkwood rolled 10 using 1d10.  50% Concealment miss 6+ means I hit.


10:02, Today: Arell Kirkwood rolled 17 using 2d6+10.  Damage roll vs Dark Mantle 10,24.

It be dead.

With the stone useless, he tossed it to the floor and sliced in the air where he thought the attack had come from



22:40, Today: Lorn rolled 0 using 1d4-1.
22:38, Today: Lorn rolled 5 using 1d20-1.  attack.
22:38, Today: Lorn rolled 1 using 1d2.  consealment miss; 2 being a successful hit.

Yeah... no... Lorn is not a melee fighter by any stretch of the term.

Varianna retrieves a dagger, flipping it and catching it by its point. She rears back to throw at the first hostile thing she sees.

OOC:
Ready to throw at first enemy that she can see.

This message was last edited by the player at 18:15, Sun 12 Nov 2017.

Nomerendal paused in his inspirational speaking to poke his head around the dagger-wielding Variana. He squinted into the darkness, hearing the kerfuffle within, but unable to make out much at all. Like his stealthy female counterpart, he readied an arrow in his small bow... just in case something target-worthy emerged!

"What's going on in there, can you see anything?!" he asked Variana.

Action: Ready shot - Nomerendal Tunespinner rolled 17 to hit for 4 damage...

Tarack turned and tried to attack the Darkmantle between him and Rennick as he had a flanking opportunity but the creature floated up at the last minute a few feet and his swing was low. However, Carl his faithful companion lashed out with claws and bite...one claw connecting with a tentacle that Carl pulled into its mouth and bit sharply. purple ichor oozed onto the floor.

Rennick felt the body hit him and immediately swung his sword in the dark, but did not feel it connect. He could feel the air moving around him and heard Carl's growl and heard Nomerendals bolstering story from out in the courtyard...but otherwise it was very unnerving fighting in these conditions.

Arell swung his two hander after ascertaining where the others were by voices and grunts. He sliced completely through the creature to his side.

Lorn tried to strike a creature blindly to his front. but was no way close in the darkness.

In the dim shadowy light she could vaguely make out the shapes ahead because of her low-light vision and she through a dagger which arced past Lorn and flew into the anvil beyond.

Nomerendel too was beginning to make out shadowy shapes now that his eyes were adjusting and he fired his bow, which had he not ben trying to correct for Lorn being in the way would have connected. as it was the arrow struck a door jam and snapped.

The two remaining Darkmantles attacked. The first engaged with Carl tried to strike it with a tentacle, but the cat proved to be too quick. 10:08, Today: DM Dread rolled 5 using 1d20+3.  darkmantle vs Carl AC 17. The other in a target rich environment chose to assault the human who had just killed off its brood mate 10:09, Today: DM Dread rolled 1 using 1d4.  1-Arell 2-Tarack 3-Lorn 4-Rennick. 10:10, Today: DM Dread rolled 15 using 1d20+3.  Darkmantle vs Arell AC 16. but the Paladin fended off the reaching tentacles with a sweep of his blade.


The Room is in Darkness.

All creatures gain concealment (20% miss chance) in dim light. All creatures gain total concealment (50% miss chance) in darkness. Creatures with darkvision can see in an area of dim light or darkness without penalty. Nonmagical sources of light, such as torches and lanterns, do not increase the light level in an area of darkness. <b>Magical light sources only increase the light level in an area if they are of a higher spell level than darkness.</b>

The party can act.

Map: https://1drv.ms/i/s!Aptb6Vt5lI7mny9aLYbBkYB-tVoL

Combat Summary

Arell AC:16(T-11/FF-15)CMD:16 HP:10/10 FO:+2 RE:+1 WL:+1
1st Paladin Human Male

Nomerendal AC:16(T-14/FF-13) CMD:+11 HP:10/10 FO:+2 RE:+5 WL:+1
1st Bard Gnome Male Defensive Training: +4 dodge vs monsters (giant subtype)
Illusion Resistance: +2 save bonus vs illusion spells & effects.

Lorn AC:19(T-13/FF-16)CMD:12 HP:08/08 FO:1 RE:3 WL:6
1st Cleric of Human Male defenses, +1 vs spells(necromancy) and negative energy damage.

Horse AC:11(T-11/FF-9) CMD:17(21 vs trip) HP:15/15 FO:+6 RE:+5 WL:+1
Mount Large Animal

Rennick AC:14(T-11/FF-13)CMD:16 HP:13/10 FO:+4 RE:+3 WL:0
1st Ranger Human Male +1 saves Vs vision affects

Tarack AC:16(T-12/FF-14)CMD:12 HP:10/10 FO:+4 RE:+2 WL:+5
1st Druid Dwarf Male defenses

Carl AC:17(T-16/FF-12)CMD:17 Trip-21 HP:19/19 FO:+4 RE:+8 WL:+1
Leopard  Animal Companion

Buddy AC:15(T-12/FF-13)CMD:15 Trip-19 HP:11/11 FO:+4 Re:+5 WL:+2
Ram Pet

Variana AC:16(T-14/FF-12)CMD:15 HP:8/8 FO:+0 RE:+6 WL:+0
1st Rogue Elf Female (Immunity to Sleep Effects, +2 on Saves vs Enchantment Spells & Effects)

vs

Darkmantle AC:15(T-13/FF-13)CMD:13 (Cant be Tripped) HP:20/12,20/20 FO:+5 RE:+3 WL:+0
Small Magical Beast

Rennick stands still and waits till he feels or hears a sound of the dark mantles nearby, or until he's attacked by one.
He will then immediately attack in the direction of the sensation/attack.
(But his attack is very badly aimed.)

OOC: 18:30, Today: Rennick Hitman rolled 7 using 1d20+6.  ready attack with longsword two-handed.

Things just went crazy the dark. Tarack decided that he was better at calling out where the enemy was than trying to hit them himself. He first directed his ram to attack, the animal attempted to gore, but the darkens threw off its aim. Carl, however got a real taste for the Darkmantles his bite missed, but one of the claws ripped right into it. The fact that it was in the air did not hinder the cat as it was used to jumping while chancing down birds.

As the battle continues Tarack handed out Advice to Arell on how to better strike the foe (+2 to hit on next attack). "Arell, it is just above you!"


Nove action: Handle Animal Buddy
Move action: Combat Advice Arell

12:28, Today: Tarack Bulslagson rolled 6 using 2d2+2.
12:26, Today: Tarack Bulslagson rolled 9,59 using 1d20+5,1d100.
12:26, Today: Tarack Bulslagson rolled 25 using 1d20+5.  Confirm.
12:25, Today: Tarack Bulslagson rolled 25,70 using 1d20+5,1d100.
12:25, Today: Tarack Bulslagson rolled 17,14 using 1d20+5,1d100.  Carl attacks.
12:25, Today: Tarack Bulslagson rolled 13 using 1d100.  20% miss.
12:23, Today: Tarack Bulslagson rolled 17 using 1d20+3.  Buddy gore attack.
12:23, Today: Tarack Bulslagson rolled 13 using 1d20+5.  Handle Animal - attack Buddy.

OOC: I keep forgetting the Inspiring Song, so that is 7pts of damage total

Hearing things moving past him at high speed, Lorn dares to step to the side away from the entrance to the door. Frustrated that he can't see anything, Lorn casts another spell that might make him see at least something to help orient him.

Side step from the door. 25x 11y
Casting detect magic.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:13, Mon 13 Nov 2017.

"Oops! I thought that was one of the dark-elves!" Nom admitted sheepishly to Variana as he heard his arrow shatter at the doorway. "At least I didn't skewer Arell... he gets cranky every time I do that."

The gnome nocked another arrow and drew a bead on something in the gloom. He waited for just the right moment and then loosed into the fray.

"Beware! I've heard that Dark-elves are known to use poisoned nets made of spider-silk as strong as iron, stay on your toes men!"

Move: Peeking through the door at [29,9]
Action: Attempting a shot at [24,10] - Nomerendal rolled 20
  Damage: Nomerendal rolled 2
  Miss Chance: Nomerendal rolled 82

"Variana! I think I may have got... something!"

Arell decides to listen to the one guy who could see in this murk.

Reflexes long trained keep the blow true...or would had the creature not moved in the intervening time...

Ugh, he was going to have a LIST of things he'd need to pick up after this.

OOC:

11:38, Today: Arell Kirkwood rolled 26 using 1d20+7.  Attack vs Dark Mantle, Power Attack, +1 inspire, +2 from Tarrack DC 15.  I hit.


11:39, Today: Arell Kirkwood rolled 20 using 1d100.  over 50 means I hit.

Bleh...

Rennick once again swings wildly, then grasps the sword in both hands and tries to clear his mind...fear is getting into his head and causing his swings to be uncontrolled.

Tarack orders Budy to attack and at first he glances at the creature hovering behind Rennick and its master but he cant find an opening between the two...so he jumps atop a pew and goes from pew to pew until hes next to Carl and then he tries to ram the one Carl has ahold of...but fails.

Carl continues his assault and once claw misjudged where the creature was in the dim light, but the other slashed across tentacles severely and the creature seemed to be bobbing in the air more than it should be.

Tarack took a wild swing at the one between him and Rennick failing to connect.

Lorn took a side step and cast a spell to discern magical aura's and his vision went haywire as the entire darkness lit up in red hue'd light indicating evocation magic. The downside was he couldnt see any better with the spell than without.

Nomerendal took a step to the side and fired an arrow into the shadows and it struck one of the hovering squid like creatures.

Arell carefully listens to Tarack and swings where he indicated in the darkness, however the creature moved at the last second and the swing missed.

Variana paused to listen and strained to see...holding off throwing a dagger.

The continued to attack. Te one locked in combat with Carl, injured as it was, tried to grapple the cat with a bleeding tentacle and the cat ducked underneath, tail swishing back and forth rapidly.

The other changed tactics and went back to attacking Rennick 21:37, Today: DM Dread rolled 4 using 1d4.  DM Dread rolled 1 using 1d4.  1-Arell 2-Tarack 3-Lorn 4-Rennick. 21:38, Today: DM Dread rolled 20 using 1d20+3.  attack on Rennick AC 14. 21:39, Today: DM Dread rolled 1 using 1d4.  damage to Rennick. 21:40, Today: DM Dread rolled 21 using 1d20+5.  grapple attempt CMD 16. and a tentacle wrapped around his body, doing little damage but in a position to constrict soon.

Grappled: A grappled creature is restrained by a creature, trap, or effect. Grappled creatures cannot move and take a –4 penalty to Dexterity. A grappled creature takes a –2 penalty on all attack rolls and combat maneuver checks, except those made to grapple or escape a grapple. In addition, grappled creatures can take no action that requires two hands to perform. A grappled character who attempts to cast a spell or use a spell-like ability must make a concentration check (DC 10 + grappler’s CMB + spell level), or lose the spell. Grappled creatures cannot make attacks of opportunity.



The Room is in Darkness. Rennick is grappled

All creatures gain concealment (20% miss chance) in dim light. All creatures gain total concealment (50% miss chance) in darkness. Creatures with darkvision can see in an area of dim light or darkness without penalty. Nonmagical sources of light, such as torches and lanterns, do not increase the light level in an area of darkness. <b>Magical light sources only increase the light level in an area if they are of a higher spell level than darkness.</b>

The party can act.

Map: http://prntscr.com/hb2s33

Combat Summary

Arell AC:16(T-11/FF-15)CMD:16 HP:10/10 FO:+2 RE:+1 WL:+1
1st Paladin Human Male

Nomerendal AC:16(T-14/FF-13) CMD:+11 HP:10/10 FO:+2 RE:+5 WL:+1
1st Bard Gnome Male Defensive Training: +4 dodge vs monsters (giant subtype)
Illusion Resistance: +2 save bonus vs illusion spells & effects.

Lorn AC:19(T-13/FF-16)CMD:12 HP:08/08 FO:1 RE:3 WL:6
1st Cleric of Human Male defenses, +1 vs spells(necromancy) and negative energy damage.

Horse AC:11(T-11/FF-9) CMD:17(21 vs trip) HP:15/15 FO:+6 RE:+5 WL:+1
Mount Large Animal

Rennick Grappled AC:14(T-11/FF-13)CMD:16 HP:13/9 FO:+4 RE:+3 WL:0
1st Ranger Human Male +1 saves Vs vision affects

Tarack AC:16(T-12/FF-14)CMD:12 HP:10/10 FO:+4 RE:+2 WL:+5
1st Druid Dwarf Male defenses

Carl AC:17(T-16/FF-12)CMD:17 Trip-21 HP:19/19 FO:+4 RE:+8 WL:+1
Leopard  Animal Companion

Buddy AC:15(T-12/FF-13)CMD:15 Trip-19 HP:11/11 FO:+4 Re:+5 WL:+2
Ram Pet

Variana AC:16(T-14/FF-12)CMD:15 HP:8/8 FO:+0 RE:+6 WL:+0
1st Rogue Elf Female (Immunity to Sleep Effects, +2 on Saves vs Enchantment Spells & Effects)

vs

Darkmantle AC:15(T-13/FF-13)CMD:13 (Cant be Tripped) HP:20/1,20/18 FO:+5 RE:+3 WL:+0
Small Magical Beast
This message was last edited by the GM at 15:03, Sat 18 Nov 2017.

Rennick finally knows where the dark mantle is, now that it is grappling him.
He was scared about being choked to death by it, but the adrenaline flushed in his veins and he got the power of fury,
fury born of the fear of death. He had to hit and escape now or he would die here in this dark room.
He makes a one-handed attack at it and strikes a powerful blow!

OOC: 10:33, Today: Rennick Hitman rolled 13 using 1d8+5.  damage to darkmantle.
10:32, Today: Rennick Hitman rolled 16 using 1d20+4.  attack one-handed longsword to grappling dark mantle.
The -2 has been included.

Carl continues its attacks on the injured Darkmantle The creature manages to dodge the bite and one of the claws, but not the second one which rips into it.

Tarack moves in to help Rennick and swings. Normally he would not hit the creature, but as it is grappling it too hard for it to move and the club hits it square on.

00:18, Today: Tarack Bulslagson rolled 3 using 1d6.  Damage.
00:18, Today: Tarack Bulslagson rolled 13 using 1d20.  Tarack attack.

00:12, Today: Tarack Bulslagson rolled 3 using 1d2+1.  Damage.
00:11, Today: Tarack Bulslagson rolled 25,24 using 1d20+7,1d100.  Claw attack.
00:11, Today: Tarack Bulslagson rolled 13,3 using 1d20+7,1d100.  Claw attack.
00:11, Today: Tarack Bulslagson rolled 19,16 using 1d20+7,1d100.  Bite attack.

Ooc: Please add +1 damage on all attacks for Inspire Courage.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:16, Fri 17 Nov 2017.

"Are you all still well?" Nom yelled into the gloom. He was worried about missing one of the dark-elves and hitting an ally, so he shifted anxiously from foot to foot. "You'll be pleased to know that Variana and I have taken care of any and all dark-elves out here by the entryway. No need to be worried. Keep up the good work men! Send them skittering back to their foul Queen!"

He glanced at the rogue and winked conspiratorially. "Well we have! We've confronted all of the dark-elves we've seen outside of that nasty darkness... Just make sure Arell doesn't choke me when he finds out there weren't any!"

Action: Inspire Courage (Bardic Performance 5/7 rnds remain): An affected ally receives a +1 morale bonus on saving throws against charm and fear effects and a +1 competence bonus on attack and weapon damage rolls.

Confused at what he's seeing, Lorn tries to regain his directions figure out what to do next. Hiding behind his shield while he does so.

Total defense

Arell hears the hunter struggle and raises his sword.

"Rennick, don't move."

This was such a bad idea...

The paladin lunges forward shooting his sword past Rennick's face and into the disgusting thing holding it.

He exhales a breath he didn't know he was holding.  Thank Abadar he didn't miss.




20:10, Today: Arell Kirkwood rolled 22 using 1d20+8.  Attack vs Dark Mantle, Power Attack, +1 inspire, +2 flanking DC 15.


20:11, Today: Arell Kirkwood rolled 91 using 1d100.  fifty percent miss chance, over 50 hits.


20:13, Today: Arell Kirkwood rolled 21 using 2d6+10.  Damage roll vs Dark Mantle.

Rennick feeling the tentacle sliding down his torso and around his body, other tentacles following, forcing his arms apart so he couldnt grip his sword with two hands, swings upwards into the body of the creature and feels resistance as the sword slices into something...ichor dripping onto his arm and shoulder.

Carl pulls the thing downward with his claws and finishes it off with precision strikes then begins to see if the thing is edible....

Nomerendal still goes on about fancy tales about dark elves....

Lorn holds his shield up and hunches down behind of it...

Arell hearing the catch in Rennicks voice and the sound of tentacles on clothing and armor guesses right and lunges forward striking out into the air above Rennicks head and slises completely through the carapace, a deluge of ichor pouring down upon Rennick coloring him in a purple blue shower. The body falls as the tentacles come loose and it flops bouncing off Rennick and then down to the pews. Lorn feels a few tentacles hit the ground and bounce across his feet.

after a couple minutes the darkness begins to wane and the party can suddenly see again....

of course by then Carl has found which parts of this creature are good to eat and been going to town and its normal fiery orange and white fur has been colored purple and blue.


Map: http://prntscr.com/hc3hv7

Combat Summary

Arell AC:16(T-11/FF-15)CMD:16 HP:10/10 FO:+2 RE:+1 WL:+1
1st Paladin Human Male

Nomerendal AC:16(T-14/FF-13) CMD:+11 HP:10/10 FO:+2 RE:+5 WL:+1
1st Bard Gnome Male Defensive Training: +4 dodge vs monsters (giant subtype)
Illusion Resistance: +2 save bonus vs illusion spells & effects.

Lorn AC:19(T-13/FF-16)CMD:12 HP:08/08 FO:1 RE:3 WL:6
1st Cleric of Human Male defenses, +1 vs spells(necromancy) and negative energy damage.

Horse AC:11(T-11/FF-9) CMD:17(21 vs trip) HP:15/15 FO:+6 RE:+5 WL:+1
Mount Large Animal

Rennick AC:14(T-11/FF-13)CMD:16 HP:13/9 FO:+4 RE:+3 WL:0
1st Ranger Human Male +1 saves Vs vision affects

Tarack AC:16(T-12/FF-14)CMD:12 HP:10/10 FO:+4 RE:+2 WL:+5
1st Druid Dwarf Male defenses

Carl AC:17(T-16/FF-12)CMD:17 Trip-21 HP:19/19 FO:+4 RE:+8 WL:+1
Leopard  Animal Companion

Buddy AC:15(T-12/FF-13)CMD:15 Trip-19 HP:11/11 FO:+4 Re:+5 WL:+2
Ram Pet

Variana AC:16(T-14/FF-12)CMD:15 HP:8/8 FO:+0 RE:+6 WL:+0
1st Rogue Elf Female (Immunity to Sleep Effects, +2 on Saves vs Enchantment Spells & Effects)
This message was last edited by the GM at 15:44, Sat 18 Nov 2017.

Rennick's heart misses a beat as Arell's sword cuts with tremendous power through the dark mantle, missing him with just inches to spare.
He says: "Who did that? Who's cutting with such a weapon just inches from my head?
Phew, I've just had a near pass on the threshold of death.
Can someone heal my wounds, please?"

Standing over Rennick, Lorn bent down and touched the man on his shoulder, saying a few whispered words in prayer to Pharasma. Lorn's hand glowed yellow and so did the wound for a couple of seconds. "I WILL keep you from the threshold as long as I'm able and with Pharasma's blessing." Lorn says earnestly.

Standing up again, Lorn unsheathes his knife again and casts his light spell on it, then casts detect magic when the darkness fades to normal light. Then goes towards the beasts and examines them. Magical aura fading from the surroundings but their bodies still glow faintly and getting fainter for Lorn. "What kind of beast were these?"



16:44, Today: Lorn rolled 3 using 1d8+1.  CLW.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:18, Sat 18 Nov 2017.

Hells if I know," Arell says, cleaning the ichor from his sword, "All I know was it was dark and them things were making it.  So they had to go, quickly."

At Rennick's expression, Arell's gaze softens, "That doesn't mean it couldn't have waited for you to handle that thing yourself...I apologize, Rennick, for shaving a few years off your life with that stunt.  I promise I won't get mad if you ever have to do the same."

Perhaps it might have been a good moment to mention how Abadar guides his blade or somesuch, but that wasn't what Rennick needed to hear right then.

When the gloom began to lift, Nomerendal hurried excitedly back to join the more martial of his companions.

"Come on Variana, let's go see what's left of the dark-elves! The stories say they have many enchanted weapons and wands..." Not that he was particularly eager to admire the scene of a battle, but he'd heard stories for years about the dangerous, even deadly cousins of the surface elves he'd known throughout his life.

He glanced around at the mess and was forced to stifle a giggle at Rennick who was covered in the bluish-purple ichor.

"Well done men! But... these aren't dark-elves." There was some disappointment in his voice. "They're not even close. In fact, the only thing they really have in common is that they darked us and dropped to attack from the ceiling. I'm not really sure why you were all so anxious, but these... these aren't what you thought they were."

"By the way Arell, that was some pretty decent swordsmanship there. I still don't think I'll ask you to cut my sandwich with that titan-cleaver of yours, but I'll certainly commend you on giving Rennick a haircut!"

"Oh, Rennick, you've got a little something on your... yeah, right there on your forehead. That's it..."

The little gnome then proceeded to snoop around the chamber, prattling on to himself, Pfft! They thought those were dark-elves! Ha! Gods forbid we should ever cross paths with a real one!

The party spreads out in the befouled chapel and begins to look through it for anything, especially signs of a rust colored mushroom with gray markings.

after a few minutes the only thing they can tell is there is nothing of note within, having been looted aplenty over the years and there are no mushrooms.

The Altar looks like it once was to the Dwarven God Torag. As mentioned before, 5 fis sized oval depressions are empty in a semi-circle around the anvils base.

Map: http://prntscr.com/hdu289

Combat Summary

Arell AC:16(T-11/FF-15)CMD:16 HP:10/10 FO:+2 RE:+1 WL:+1
1st Paladin Human Male

Nomerendal AC:16(T-14/FF-13) CMD:+11 HP:10/10 FO:+2 RE:+5 WL:+1
1st Bard Gnome Male Defensive Training: +4 dodge vs monsters (giant subtype)
Illusion Resistance: +2 save bonus vs illusion spells & effects.

Lorn AC:19(T-13/FF-16)CMD:12 HP:08/08 FO:1 RE:3 WL:6
1st Cleric of Human Male defenses, +1 vs spells(necromancy) and negative energy damage.

Horse AC:11(T-11/FF-9) CMD:17(21 vs trip) HP:15/15 FO:+6 RE:+5 WL:+1
Mount Large Animal

Rennick AC:14(T-11/FF-13)CMD:16 HP:13/12 FO:+4 RE:+3 WL:0
1st Ranger Human Male +1 saves Vs vision affects

Tarack AC:16(T-12/FF-14)CMD:12 HP:10/10 FO:+4 RE:+2 WL:+5
1st Druid Dwarf Male defenses

Carl AC:17(T-16/FF-12)CMD:17 Trip-21 HP:19/19 FO:+4 RE:+8 WL:+1
Leopard  Animal Companion

Buddy AC:15(T-12/FF-13)CMD:15 Trip-19 HP:11/11 FO:+4 Re:+5 WL:+2
Ram Pet

Variana AC:16(T-14/FF-12)CMD:15 HP:8/8 FO:+0 RE:+6 WL:+0
1st Rogue Elf Female (Immunity to Sleep Effects, +2 on Saves vs Enchantment Spells & Effects)

Having calmed down somewhat, Nomerendal took a moment to observe the Anvil shrine. "Torag, the world-forger, or so say the dwarven legends. He hammered the world into existence, isn't that right Tarack? I don't really know much more than that..."

"I wonder... Hey Arell, may I borrow a few gold pieces? I feel like maybe we should make an offering in these depressions..."

OOC: Religion's not (yet) one of Nom's strengths... If Arell concedes to loan Nom some GP, he'll put 1gp in each of the depressions to see if anything happens.

Arell looks at the indents, "I don't think they'll fit." he says, but he pulls out his money pouch anyway and starts counting coins.

"Tarrack?  Any idea what those holes are for?"

Rennick answers Arell: "I think those holes were for growing the mushrooms. Perhaps if we grind a lot of coal, we can get dust and put the dust into the depressions like a kind of fertilizer and then add iron in some way."

He dropped Arell's coins into the depressions one at a time before looking up at Rennick.

The gnome blinked.

"Hmmm... Never would have thought of that..."

"Not sure we have time to wait for mushrooms to grow though, maybe we ought to just find some that are already growing." Nomerendal nodded toward the door to the south.

Rennick walks to the door to the south and looks for traps.

14:42, Today: Rennick Hitman rolled 12 using 1d20+4.  Perception: Look for traps.

Tarak examines the ovals, then rubs his head. "To tell the truth, I have not lived most of my life among others of my kind. I know little of their ... our religions and things. But, Torag is God of the forge and this looks to be some sort of a chapel, therefore I would say that the Anvil is the altar, in which case that those depression could have been markers or perhaps decorations.

As for the mushrooms, they are suppose to grow by the forge. This does not appear to the place where they did actual work. Find the smithy and we may located the mushrooms."

Nom left Arell's coins at the alter and crept up next to Rennick where he was inspecting the southern door.

"Watch out for dark-elves this time..." he whispered before he attempted to open the door.

opening up the door to the south after trying to guess what the ovals on the altar were for unsuccessfully, the party sees the remains of a once proud library.

The double doors leading into this chamber are shattered and broken, one of them lying on the floor. The room beyond is in an equal state of disrepair. What was once a library is now a shattered mess with one corner being completely collapsed and dominated by a wide pool of stagnant water. Thick fungus grows on most of the books that still remain on the
shelves lining the walls.

Map: http://prntscr.com/hg05kq

"There's nothing here" Rennick says, "at least no forge, it looks like a library."

Rennick picks up his lamp and moves back to where Variana stands (in the hallway near the entry) and goes north from there, till he reaches the corner.
Without turning around the corner, he takes a quick peek around the corner to see what lies beyond.

Arell sticks his nose into the library after Rennick, "Welp, there are mushrooms in there...no idea if they're the ones we need.  Too bad there aren't any books."

Then little gnome's gasp of dismay was perhaps, for the first time, something which had truly affected him thus far into their journey. Books were rare in Falcon's Hollow and most of the ones which Nom had seen were carefully maintained in humble collections by a few of the wealthier townsfolk. Over the years, Nomerendal had read almost all of them, eager for knowledge, history, and conjecture alike. To see this once proud library in such a state of decay was heart-wrenching to him.

"Oh... oh, no, no, no...." he said in a small voice as he shuffled into the room. If anyone were to look closely, they might have seen the glisten of tears forming in Nomerendals almond shaped eyes. "Oh what a terrible, terrible loss..."

In a state of dismay, the gnome searched around what what was left, carefully avoiding as much of the fungus as possible, for that's how they'd gotten caught up in this mess after all.


OOC: Nom's really affected by the tragic sight of a library having been ruined. He'll spend a few minutes poking around and ignoring much of whatever else is going on. I'd like to Take 20 for Perception please. Total: 25

The Gnome wanders in careful not to disturb the fungus and looks around and then his eyes spot the edge of a book, sticking out from atop the shelf devoid of any of the furry mold on the others...

Rennick moves out near varianna and goes to peer around the north corner of the hall seeing a long straight hallway ending in a statue not unlike the ones at the entry to the Monastery . beyond the statue the building has crumbled to open air. A few doors lie on the north wall.

Carl creeps into the library and begins moving around curiously as cats are want to do.

Map: http://prntscr.com/hgwu5u
This message was last edited by the GM at 22:02, Wed 29 Nov 2017.

Arell looks at the book Rendal found with a small amount of trepidation.  On one hand it was nice that some of the ancient (or relatively ancient) writing survived.

On the other hand, strange old books that exist despite all the evidence suggesting they should not were the sort of thing that made lichs.

"What didja find, Rendal?" he asks, trying to keep his paranoia down.

Then again, he had just been attacked by darkness-generating tentacle things.  If ever there was a time for paranoia, this was it.

Though his heart dismayed at the loss of knowledge in this place, he gasped when he discovered a single book that seemed to have survived.

"Look at you..." he said to the book as he carefully withdrew it from the rotting mess. He held it gingerly, even now expecting it to fall to pieces in his hands. He examined the cover carefully before opening to see what treasures might be found inside.

"Something special I believe," Nomerendal said in reply to Arell. "Sadly not much else looks to have survived..."

He glanced up from the book to observe the paranoid look upon the normally dour face of his old friend. "What? You look like you saw a ghost... You feeling alright? Did one of those brainsuckers actually get a morsel from you or something? C'mon, check it out!"

Nom scampered with his treasure to show Arell what he'd found.

Rennick searches for traps on the first door to the North around the corner.
If he finds no traps, he listens at the door.

23:13, Today: Rennick Hitman rolled 9 using 1d20+4.  Perception: Look for traps.

Nomerendel carefully climbs atop a shelf to reach the book and gently lifts it from its perch as he lowers himself back to the ground, avoiding any of the molded areas.

The front of the book is a stylized picture of The Hammer and Anvil with musical notes and some dwarven runes.

thumbing through the book, all in dwarven, but the musical notes are easy to follow if the words arent to a Bard. Its a dwarven hymnal....the last page reached, a folded scroll in the divine magical writing 'high cant' is tucked between the cover and the last page.

Meanwhile Rennick moves to a door and listens and looks it over hearing nothing but the sounds carrying from where the party is and where Rennick is. He notices no traps on the doorway. Lorn comes out in the hall following where the Ranger went to.

Arell comes to peek over the Gnomes shoulder and Carl continues his exploration.

Map: http://prntscr.com/hhagbg

Arell stares at the music in puzzlement, "Hymns...to Torag.  Either this will look nice on your bookshelf, or there might be something in here you can fight with. the Paladin says.  "Something tells me the Dwarven god of the forge doesn't write music frivolously."

"Hey Tarack, do you read dwarf-runes? I found a book that I think I'll keep until such a time that this monastery is ever restored. Seems to be a hymnal of some sort, but I'll admit that my Dwarfish isn't what it ought to be..."

"Agreed Arell, I'll have to look this over a little when we've got a moment to rest. For now though maybe we'd best keep moving. Those mushrooms aren't going to find themselves!"

Rennick opens the door, careful to avoid making unnecessary sounds.
He holds the lamp so that the light shines into the room behind the door.

Rennick cracks open the door and shines his lamp into the room as Nomerendal and Arell leave the library, Arell trying to catch up to the Ranger while the gnome pauses to let Tarack look over the manuscript.

The light of the lamp shows a small room with an open doorway to a larger room beyond littered with debris.

This small study looks like it has been lived in recently. Gnawed bones litter the floor and
tufts of gray fur can be seen here and there. An old stone desk sits in the center of the chamber, scratched and cracked in many places. The stench of wet fur hangs heavy in the air.

Map: http://prntscr.com/hjfzyc

Rennick whispers to Lorn: "Someone has been here recently, they may be hiding here."

Rennick, staying at his vantage point in the hallway behind the threshold of the room, looks carefully into the room, especially at places where someone might be hidden. So he looks at the chairs and the table to see if there's a piece of clothing sticking out behind them, etc.

OOC: 22:02, Today: Rennick Hitman rolled 17 using 1d20+4.  Perception: spot anyone hiding in room.

Rennick sees no-one hiding in the room from his vantage point. But he does hear the sound of nails scraping on a tiled floor from the other room

Rennick quickly but carefully closes the door, so that the monster (probably a wolf or two) can't get to him.
He holds the door closed and tries to wedge the handle with a piece of wood so that it can't be opened easily by any wolves inside.
Most wolves aren't very good at opening door handles anyway, he thinks.

He whispers to Lorn and Arell: "this room is used as a lair by the wolves. I suggest we leave them in peace, there's no reason we should kill them. I saw no forge in the room."

Arell looks to Rennick's door in trepidation, "I'm not happy leaving a potential threat to our backs, but...we're not here to collect wolf pelts.  Good call Rennick...if they insist on being a nuisance we'll deal with them then."

He glances around at the other darkened hallways.  Who knows how big a dwarven forge (in a monastery to Torag might) might be. The room with the wolves might actually be the room they sought--so despite good intentions, they might be fighting the poor beasts anyway.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:07, Wed 06 Dec 2017.

Meanwhile, Nomerendal was looking down the hall the other way. What he really wanted to do was sit down with Tarack and figure out how to play some of the dwarven hymns in the book he'd found, but that thought kept getting pushed aside by one of folks back in Falcon's Hollow getting very, very sick and dying.

So, creeping ahead, he did a bit of his own investigation at a heretofore unexplored door!

Checking out the door at [26,14]

As Arell and Rennick stand near the door Rennick shut, Nomerendal and Tarack move towards the door just outside the Library. The Gnome looks the door over and determines there is nothing noteworthy about the door except it is locked.

Map: http://prntscr.com/hk5303

Tarak shakes his head. This is going too slow. "Lets keep moving. We need to find the forge."

"Variana!" The little gnome whisper-shouted down the hall. When he had her attention he pointed at the door and made a locking motion with his hand.

"Agreed Tarack, while Variana works on this door, let's go look elsewhere."

Allowing for her to pass, Nom checked out the door closer to the others.

Not sure if Variana is still with us. Would you NPC her GM?
Nom's looking at the door at [27,10]

Tarack makes sure that his animals are close by  while waiting for the lock smith to do her thing.

Variana cally walks down to the door Nomerendeal is standing in front of and examines the doorway first then goes to work on the lock, until with an audible click it is unlocked. then she quietly eases the door open, out into the hallway, as the hinges are on the outside.  This small chamber appears to be some sort of sitting room, complete with a single table and a
pair of chairs, both in relatively good condition.Resting atop the table is a half-eaten crow next to a crude knife and a cracked mug.

she pauses and points to the trip wire strung between the door frames and looks inside and up and then points up where a net has been strung over the entry point with rocks and metallic objects held above the doorway. the trip wire runs to a pin that would be pulled out.

a simplistic trap but a noisy one to deactivate...so she points out the trip wire and prepares to help Nomerendal step over it. she whispers to Tarack, youd best keep your animals out, I dont think they will be able to step over it.

Ive messaged both her and Lorn. if I dont get responses soon Ill assume both have dropped and replace them

Map: http://prntscr.com/hkssym
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:56, Fri 08 Dec 2017.

Rennick steps forward to the next door in the Northern hallway and studies it for traps.

OOC: 20:54, Today: Rennick Hitman rolled 7 using 1d20+4.  Perception: Look for traps.

Rennick took a few steps down the hall and started looking over the next doorway, finding nothing of note.

Out in the courtyard, Lorns horse started making noise, winnieing, Lorn moved to the doorway to check on her and said, theres nothing out here

Variana moved away from the doorway to let Tarack and Nomerendal check the room out that had been trapped to prevent entry by someone intelligent; and went into the Library to look around.

Finding no traps and determining it was not locked, the Ranger cracked the door to find the remnants of an armory for the monastery. a few scattered crossbow bolts laying loose on the floor. No other exit was apparent.

Map: http://prntscr.com/hlyth3

Rennick enters the room, after looking at the ceiling for hidden dark mantles.
If he finds no dark mantles, he walks over to the far wall and starts to look for secret doors on the wall to the East.

OOC: 16:59, Today: Rennick Hitman rolled 19 using 1d20+4.  Perception: look for secret doors on wall to East.

Edit: I had typed West but I meant East.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:01, Mon 11 Dec 2017.

Rennick moves along the wall examining it closely for a hidden door and finds nothing...

Lorn moves out to check his horse and quiet it.

Variana starts examining the bookshelves and then suddenly gasps and clutches her throat.

When Nomerendal glances over his shoulder he sees the elf gasping for air amid a cloud of fungal spores. she had disturbed the books and the air around her was filled with a cloud and she didnt seem to be able to breath.

going to her aid would expose the group to the cloud of spores.

Map: http://prntscr.com/hmjayw

Nom gasped loudly and then covered his mouth. For a moment he panicked, thinking that perhaps he was choking! His beating heart prompted his lungs to ask for more breath. The little gnome denied this request a bit longer, but the lungs became very persuasive in their persistence. Finally, Nomerendal removed his hand and realized he wasn't dying. At least not yet! Dozens of tales of such deadly accidents filled his mind as time seemed to slow. He recalled every inflection of voice he'd employed to make the telling of those tales more dramatic.

Things were plenty dramatic now!

Nomerendal dropped his pack and began fishing through it, frantically searching for the length of rope he'd stored there for months while waiting in the local inn for adventure to come his way. Though he'd hardly consider this outing a tellable adventure, it was certainly fortuitous that he had the rope!

"There you are!" He said to the rope, pulling it out, tossing one end to Tarack. His face screwed up in concentration and he snapped his fingers. Suddenly the opposite end of the rope began to float through the air toward Variana as if being hauled by some unseen magical hand! He caused his mage hand to circle Variana's waist and then come back toward him and the dwarf.

"Quick Tarack! I'm not strong enough, we need to pull her outside!"

Rope + Mage Hand cantrip!

Rennick exits the room again and moves further in the hallway going East. He looks for secret doors in that hallway at the North side, for he thinks there's another room there.

OOC: 23:17, Today: Rennick Hitman rolled 21 using 1d20+4.  Perception: look for secret doors in hallway at North side.

Rennick not hearing what was going on in the other room moved out into the hall and started down the hall sure there was going to be some sort of hidden doorway....then he paused and looked down at the ground and saw small footprints with clawed toes going towards him and down the hall past Arell they stopped at the other door. they were fairly fresh in the dust, dirt and moss growing...like really fresh.

As Nomerendal watches after throwing his rope. Variana gasps her last breath not having the strength to grab the rope....

then at that same moment Theres a scream in the courtyard and a loud winnie from the horse accompanied by the loud whoosh of wings and a cloud of dust is blown into the hall behind Tarack and Arell as one of the real dangers of the Darkwood came calling...one of the Drakes or Wyverns, grabbing up both Lorn and his horse in its claws and flying off.


Walking up Franics saw the winged dragonkin and fear clutched his gut as he realized that could have been him as he dared to come through the wood alone to explore the monastery....

In the nearby forest Fidget also saw the winged Drake, cousin to the Wyvern grab up the unsuspecting human and his horse and she swallowed hard...this mission was provong to be far more dangerous that would have been guessed.

Map: http://prntscr.com/hnx2tl

Rennick is frightened by the scream in the courtyard, but he looks again, for a second only, at the footprints: what kind of animal is this?
After the second, he moves out into the courtyard, drawing his bow and puts the lamp down in the courtyard, so that maybe he can start shooting arrows in the next round.


OOC: check to identify clawed footprints, result 6;
16:18, Today: Rennick Hitman rolled 6 using 1d20+4.  survival or knowledge nature check (both at +4).

Nomerendal's normally laid-back face was filled with emotion. He watched a young woman die in front of him even as he was doing what he thought might save her. The realization that it could have been him in those spores didn't help.

And then there was the terrible cry in the courtyard!

Frightened to his core, but insatiably curious as well, Nom scampered past Tarrack and poked his head around the corner just in time to watch Lorn and his faithful packhorse be taken into the air by a terrifying drake!

By the time the little gnome had gathered his wits enough to raise his bow and fire off an arrow that inevitably would have just bounced off the creature's hide, the monster and its prey were gone into the night!

The aspiring minstrel leaned against the heavy stone walls of the monastery and breathed heavily for a moment. He'd come here - if he were to honestly admit it to himself - as much out of boredom as for helping the town, a passtime in his wait for adventure to come and find him. His excitement a few moments ago when he thought the party was being attacked by dark elves seemed a good start, and finding a wonderful dwarven hymnal had been intriguing...

But by the Strings he was in an adventure now! Suddenly, the stories he'd been telling for years, became much more real and impressive. He'd barely glimpsed a monster... how could anyone ever stand against such a creature?!

Nom found himself sidling closer to Arell, feeling small and very vulnerable.

"What do we do now?" he asked in a tiny and frightened voice.

After seeing the flying reptile scoop up the man and his horse Fidget decides  it's probably a real good idea to get inside the building at least until morning. Hoping their's nothing around that want's a Gnome snack she very carefully sneaks (to square 5 / 39)
and peeks up the hallway.



17:29, Today: Fidget Mossgrower rolled 27 using 1d20+9. move silently & hide.
This message was last edited by the player at 23:36, Fri 15 Dec 2017.

As Arell is looking down the hallways, he hears the shriek of the horse as it's carried off.

He flies toward the exit too late to do anything about the horse...or Lorn for that matter.

He stands there a long moment in confusion.  Dragons out of nowhere were a few steps above even the shadow monsters from a few moments ago.  And Lorn...here one moment, dead the next.  His god ought to be pissed...

Hell, he was pissed.  Dragons out of nowhere shouldn't be able to kill people and just leave like that.  Not without giving Arell a crack at them first.

It was only when he turned back and saw Ariana's corpse that he began to wonder about about this place in earnest...and this mission...

If they don't keep going, half the town would die.

He takes a deep breath, the kind that defuses a scream, "We'll bury her outside after we find those damn mushrooms."  He says, voice heavy, "Rennick, where haven't we checked yet?"

Rennick answers Arell, "I think there's 3 rooms which we haven't checked yet. One has no obvious door, so I was looking for a secret door in the hallway to the North. The second is behind the small room where wolves have made their lair, so we would need to fight the wolves first to get there. The third is near the library, at the opposite side of the hallway leading south.
We should all get inside, if we don't want to be ambushed by a monster again."

theres 7 if you count the room that was opened near the library but never enter, the tower, and the room Rennic suspects is hidden by a secret door...and the room he thinks theres wolves in.

While Francis cowers on the road

Fidget sneaks to the piles of rocks where she can see theres space around the statue blocking the hallway to see but not go in and out. without some squeezing...then she sees the three adventurers exit the monastery  pulling bows out too slow to save their comrade. One of the three is a Gnome like herself.

The three look into the air and then around.

Tarack quieted the ram and leopard inside.

Map: http://prntscr.com/hoo1ou
This message was last edited by the GM at 15:09, Sun 17 Dec 2017.

Fidget move around the corner between the rocks and walks up to square 8/33 (saying in gnomish) Hi my name is Fidget Mossgrower, I think a dragon just ate your friend. I'm really not sure if it was a dragon it could have been some other type of large flying lizard, but for sure it just ate your friend and some ones mule. Can I come inside with you guys I'm not sure how safe it is out here alone.
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 16:23, Sun 17 Dec 2017.

Rennick is amazed at the sudden appearance of a gnome.
Rennick doesn't speak gnomish, so it's just gibberish to him.
He says: "Welcome gnome! Speak common please. I'm Rennick and we're on an important mission here. Saving many lives, I hope.
What made you come here in the evening? Have you seen wolves prowling the dark?"

Nomerendal blinked a few times, thinking his ears must be playing tricks on him as he dealt with the shock of recent events. Is that gnomish I hear?

[In Gnomish]"Uh... Hullo there! Fidget you said? Yes, by all means cousin, get in here to safety! By the Breezes but things have gotten crazy. A dragon? A DRAGON? Poor, poor Lorn. Yes, come here cousin and let's make some sense of this!" Among most gnomish communities, it was common to call one another cousin, whether or not they were actually closely related or not, it was just custom. There was a very familiar nature among the small folk and they tended to look out for one another. Though surprised, Nom was thrilled to have another 'cousin' here now. Besides himself, he knew of very few of the gnomish folk in the Falcon's Hollow region.

When she drew near, Nomerendal bowed in a formal gnomish manner, tapping his nose oddly as the small folk were wont to do. [In Common]"Nomerendal is my name cousin Fidget, and this is Rennick and Tarack, and that perpetually dour fellow is Arell. Everyone, this is Fidget Mossgrower..." The gnome tried to keep a light note in his voice, but it was still quite quavering. It was with no small effort and due to his training as a bard that he was able to keep his composure at all.

"How did you come to be here? Rennick's not joking, there are dangerous beasts out there!"

Still in gnomish Nice to meet you cousin Nomerendal. Then in common, and a good tidings to both of you, Rennick and Tarack. It would please me if I could join you inside. I'm starting to think that traveling through the forest to the tree choppers town alone wasn't the best plan I could have come up with.

After a brief pause to catch her breath the tiny green haired gnome continues. So what are you guys doing out here? I bet it'e supper exciting. Who was the man the dragon took for dinner? Are you guy's going to the town of the tree choppers when your done here? I really need to get there so I can deliver the Queens message. Oops I wasn't supposed to say that.
This message was last edited by the player at 01:08, Tue 19 Dec 2017.

Somehow Arell knew the second gnome was Rendal's fault.  The cherry on top of an already crappy day could only be conspired by someone who genuinely thought piling misery on "main characters" was actually "good character development"

"We've got a few more errands to run, but we'll be heading back to town eventually.  Given the state of the woods right now, I'd suggest you hang around until we're done." The paladin said in a genial voice that nonetheless sounded desperate for a problem he could solve with five feet of steel

"May I ask who the message is for?" He says, turning to one of the doors that hadn't been messed with yet (9,27)

Tarack comforted his Ram and Cat after being afeared by the appearance of the Drake. Francis moved to behind one of the dwarven statues and huddled in fear.

while the foursome moved back inside and Arell walked up to the first door and grabbed the handle and opened it revealing a small chamber that was used to store the traveling cloaks, coats, and hats of visitors to the monastery. Now only a few moth-eaten rags hang on the pegs and a single soiled hat rests on the table. However beneath that table can be seen 1 single Ironsoot Mushroom...a promising start. More would be needed, but this was promising...

Map: http://prntscr.com/hpkffd

Rennick says: "I saw strange tracks of small footprints with clawed toes in th northern hallway. They went to the door, behind which I suspect a lair of the wolves. But now I'm not sure anymore. I think we should check that room again. Are you coming with me? And please, let someone else open the door, so that I can have my bow ready."

Rennick wields his bow, goes to the northern hallway, and takes up position just to the West of the door into the 'wolves' lair' (area 15 on the map).
He puts down his lamp at his feet and notches an arrow.

"Delighted to have you along Fidget, but this isn't a picnic we're on, nor would I say it was a grand adventure fit for tales in a King's Court, though I hope to one day be a part of something like that, no, this is a very important task for the town... we're looking for certain mushrooms..."

"Like those..." Nomerendal said when the closet had been opened. He blinked in surprise. "We... we actually found some!"

Nerves frazzled, the little gnome tried to settle back into what he considered his "job". He crept into position with his own tiny bow drawn and ready for whatever terrifying beasts were about to come rushing at them with slavering jaws and blood-soaked teeth!

"Ready..." he whispered.

Stepping up beside the little Bard, Fidget takes up a defensive stance letting magic flow into her hands preparing for what ever lays behind the door.

Tarack continues to comfort his pets, ignoring the party for the moment, lost in the loss of his comrades. Francis cowers beside the fallen gates, hiding in the shadow of the dwarven statue.

meanwhile Rennick pulls his bow, and headstrong as ever ignores the fact Nomerendal mentioned finding one of the mushrooms and heads back to the door the footprints went to.

Arell watches as the two gnomes follow preparing for battle.

The mushroom remains on the floor.

Map: http://prntscr.com/hq153o

Arell picks up the mushroom and stows it in his pack before turning to where Rennick prepared for the next inevitable fight.

He hoped these mushrooms weren't all singular like this...they were quickly running out of monastery to find more.

"...Um...E-Excuse me?!" a weak shaky voice could be heard from near the entrance of the crucible. A man in a suit was edging in closer 13/33, clearly shaken by the recent dragon's appearance. He was mumbling something under his voice, which sounded a lot like self beratement over recent life choices.

"I-Is anyone there?!" he asked again a little louder.

Nomerendal blinked and then looked at his fellow gnome. "Did you hear something? It sounded like someone speaking... If it was you cousin, this is hardly the time for mischief..."

Not me cousin perhaps this place is haunted.

Tarack had gone to prepare Variana's body for passing to the after life. while the others prepared for combat, Arell joined them after securing the single mushroom, and eaed the door open entering the room

from behind Francis coming to the door said something and the two gnomes remarked.

Map: http://prntscr.com/hqisza

"Hmmm... Well after what we just saw, I'm not sure ghosts could be any more scary." Nom replied in a quiet voice to the other gnome. He did notice that the tip of his arrow was shaking a bit. "If it wasn't you, and I'm sure it wasn't Arell - not his grumpy voice, and I don't know that he's ever had a good laugh - then who... Let me take a quick peek!"

Nomerendal scampered quietly closer to where he thought maybe the voice had come from. "Hullo! If you're a dragon looking for more supper, I must warn you that gnomes don't taste very good. If you're a ghost, we'll be leaving shortly and apologies for disturbing your haunt. If you're something with a hard carapace and abnormally many appendages, please wait patiently in the courtyard as all of us are busy at this time. If you're a Knight-errant looking for a good deed to perform, we could certainly use your help. For all other inquiries please state your name and home region and we'll get to you in the order of your arrival."

He paused a moment, waiting to see if there would be any response whilst wondering if he was simply hearing things.

Francis started to cautiously step into the structure, 1 step at a time, scanning every little detail as he went along. There was a short clicking sound. And then

Hssss     pshhhht     ^sssst

Weird sounds started coming from him at irregular intervals. Some might characterize them as snake sounds. They grew more noticeable as he reached the 1st intersection (9/26) and thus closer to the others he had not yet met. But it would seem that was about to change as he scanned ether ends of the hallways and the limited view of the room beyond (room 10).

EDIT: Ninja'd

Suddenly Francis nearly trips over this little..."thing", that seemingly popped out of nowhere! He whirled around frantically and Nomerendal found himself face to muzzle with a shaking weird and completely impractical-looking blunt object, with a hole in the middle, pointed at him by this human who looked like he'd much better fit in at a party for bureaucrats than an exploration party.

A long moment stretched. The shaking subsided and the human lowered the metal thing to get a better look at his demon.

"Huuuuuuuuhhh?!" was his response to Nomerendal's inquiry.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:05, Thu 21 Dec 2017.

GULP!

"Rennick! Arell! A snake!" Nomerendal hissed at the others without pausing to consider the irony of his own utterance resembling the very thing he warned of... His little bow came up, but only one eye was looking down the hallway, the other was looking for a place to fall back to!

Always have a way out! He'd heard it countless times in the great tales. The clever hero always had an escape route, a contingency, a plan...

What's my plan?!

The oddity before him left Nomerendal speechless for a moment... a very rare and noteworthy thing it was!

"Hnnnnnnuhhh?" Nom responded back in greeting, wondering if that was the man's language or if he had something stuck very deeply in his nose.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:02, Thu 21 Dec 2017.

Much like everything about Francis being out of place, if one were to observe closer they'd notice he was wearing some sort of piece mail armor(?). If one were to look even closer they might even notice that the hissing sound was coming from said armor(?). Hissing and an occasional puff of smoke?

Arell looked up at the...gentleman, currently pointing the stupidest looking defense baton he had ever seen at Rendal.  Incorrectly.

It takes him a long moment to recover his train of thought, "...what are you supposed to be?" he says bluntly.

Rennick stays at the threshold of the room that Arell has just opened.
But now that Arell is looking at the new gentleman, Rennick puts away and draws his longsword while moving silently into the room.
He whispers to Arell: "You check out that hissing noise, I'll be here to stop any monsters.

The spunky little Gnome steps into the square behind Rennick her little hands spread readied to cast a spell. I got your six Rennick.


Readied action cast Magic missile should anything attack
17:22, Today: Fidget Mossgrower rolled 2 using 1d4+1. Damage if attacked.

Francis looked up at the guy in shining armor that popped round the corner at the end of the hallway. "That's my question! Who the fuck are you lot and from where-" and then he caught himself, cleared his throat and stood up straighter to take a more regal, dignified posture before responding.

"-^{I mean}, ahem, Forsooth ye and whence doth yonder ye hail? But thou hath mineself inquired erstwhile hence mineself present ye, er, erstwhile ^{I guess, right?}. Francisco Sighenedine, Magister Doctorium Professor Sage Bachelor PhD." he answered, ending the sentence with a bow. "Lest twarth ye mineself, pray tell thee, stalwart sir thither, thine name and dost thou oft, er...these ruins," he aimed a magnanimous question back at Arell.
This message was last edited by the player at 00:15, Fri 22 Dec 2017.

In the face of all that blather, Arell can do little but stare.

Elsewhere a small frog eats the cricket that had been chirping, and now sings its own song instead.

"Right...Frank, was it?" The clerk tries, apparently having understood all that but refusing to allow it any leeway in his life, "I'm Arell, that's Rendal, that's Rennick...and that's some new girl who showed up right before you did." He points to each individual in time with naming them, "We're here looking for ingredients for curing a rather nasty poison, otherwise a whole bunch of people in our town are going to start dropping dead the night after next.  Tangent to that goal is ourselves not dying--which we are apparently bad at.  If you are willing and able to help us accomplish these goals, then please, be welcome in our company."

The implicit, and if you're not, then kindly piss off remained tactfully unsaid...Arell was nice like that.

Rennick stood, sword in hand next to a desk in the first room, while Fidget stood behind him.

He could see more of the room beyond now, and heard nails clack on the tiled floor...

A gravelly voice said punctuated by growls Do come out and show yourself. This is tedious, me smelling you and knowing you are there, and you expecting me to be here but afraid to show yourself. I promise I wont bite... (was that a snicker Rennick heard after...)

Map: http://prntscr.com/hqu5tq

Rennick didn't show himself, but answered:
"We mean no harm to you nor to your wolves, I'm Rennick the ranger from Oregent and I respect wild animals.
We're just looking for the black mushrooms that should grow near a forge. We'll be gone as soon as we get the mushrooms.
Can you tell us where we can find a forge here?"

OOC: Rennick is using his town of birth, Oregent, rather than telling that they're from Falcon's Hollow.

ahhh but do the wild animals respect you?! came the reply in that same growling voice, followed by more snickering?.... Now do you seek the Forge? or The Mushrooms? Because The Forge has been removed ages ago. But the residue of the forge, has spawned musrooms in several places. In fact I have 6 of the beauties right in here with me.

Rennick answered: "Do the animals respect me? Sometimes they do, sometimes not, so that's why I'm so cautious. If you're
willing to part with a few mushrooms I'd be willing to trade. I'm not a rich person, but if you say what you need, perhaps I have it. Or
my companions. Or if there's a task you want accomplished. Or you could tell us where the forge used to be and then we could have
a look if new mushrooms have grown there."

a task...hmmm im in a bargaining mood. theres a tower in.the corner of the courtyard. its inhabit is rather....venomous...kill it. bring its body to me and they are yours.

Rennick answers: "I think that can be done, though my companions won't like the venomous bit. But I'll try to convince them and bring you the body.  Can you tell us if there's just one of those venomous monsters in the tower or perhaps several of them?"

Fidget couldn't help herself, she had never seen a talking wolf before. Hey Mr Wolf person, my name is Fidget. I've never seen a talking wolf before, can I take just a little peek at you with out you eating me?

It took a moment for Nomerendal to calm down, and perhaps it was Arell's moody response that helped the gnome recover from his surprise. The newcomer's speech was flowery enough to have been torn right out of a courtly theater. The gnome ran a small hand through his hair, scratching feverishly behind on ear for a moment as he tried to make sense of what what going on. Grateful the hissing noise he'd heard wasn't something venomous and deadly, he lowered his bow.

Only to hear Rennick somewhere behind him making some sort of a deal about something venomous and deadly...

"Francis... uh... Esquire and so forth, well met... I think. Listen, we could use a little help here as Arell mentioned, and - personally - I'd like to get what we came for and get out of here before the Drake decides it wants a gnomish turnover for dessert! If you don't mind putting that amazing... outfit to good use, then please come with us."

Turning back around the corner, Nom cocked his head at Rennick and Fidget. "Who are you talking to?"

A low growl-like chuckle came from the other room. Oh I dont mind you peeking in to see me and my brides. Not at all. However know if you move one finger in hostility Ill rend you and scatter your bones for the buzzards.

Rennick walked out of the room and answered Nomerendal, talking loudly so that Arell and the others could hear too:
"We were talking to some kind of master of wolves. He has 6 of those mushrooms which we seek. He's willing to give them to us if we do a task for him: slay a venomous monster which is in the tower in the courtyard and bring the body to him. Then he'll give us the 6 mushrooms. I think that's a fair deal. We need the mushrooms, he wants to be rid of the monster in the tower. So I suggest we do it!

Fidget very slowly edges her way around the corner, to see what a talking wolf looks like. Her pounding so loudly she's sure everyone for miles around can hear it.

Francis remained composed and stoic (aside from his eye visibly twitch at the sound of "Frank"), with a back so straight you'd think a 5ft stick had been shoved up it so far it nearly exited through the mouth. "Verywell, I shall speak candidly for the benefit of you who were unfortunately less privileged than me" he said magnanimously while dropping the stuck up "noble" speak while retaining every bit of the uptightness. "When I had learned of the fascinating history of these ruins, which happened to be along my way, I simply had to come and study the fabled forge and it's miraculous crafting properties, maybe even get a chance to observe some of the dwarven constructs made by it, if they happen to still be around. And of course reposes any...miscellaneous items I find for later study," he explained his purpose with some carefully selected words.

"Our goals by no means clash with each other so I see absolutely no reason why not to join forces on this venture. Biology may be a bit of a side hobby to me compared to my other pursuits, but I would still be quite interested in seeing what sort of organic material could not only thrive in such a bare, industrious ridden area but also be of use. Oh the possibilities could be endless if it turns out a positive proof of concept," the air of pretense seemed and standing rigid to slip the more Francis became genuinely excited with his real passion in life. But then he caught himself and reassumed the 'I'm important' posture.

"However I do have 1 condition. I want equal glory and fame when we recant this story to a bard, ^{should your quest be successful} _{and no mention of me if you fail.} Deal?"

He then craned his neck a little to see beyond Arell, "I say. What are your companions doing in that room? I've been hearing some gibber gabber coming from there for a while now."
This message was last edited by the player at 00:10, Mon 25 Dec 2017.

Oh they were going to get along just swimmingly, Arell could tell.

...and he meant that literally.  The next reasonably sized pond they ran across, and this gloryhound was going in it.

Civility, Arell, you serve civility...it's bad form to toss idiots in lakes for being idiots.  Your god wishes you to teach them not to be idiots anymore.

Arell takes a calming breath before responding, "Glory, sure...whatever.  Welcome to our little party, Frank."

At Francis' last remark Arell turns and sees Rennick with news, "One damn monster sounds a whole lot better than six talking wolves.  Let's risk it.  I'm sick of this place."

Fidget edged around the corner and glanced at the room ahead Gaping holes in the roof allow faint moonlight to enter this ruined chamber. One of the stone columns that once supported the ceiling is toppled, its broken pieces littering the floor. A thick patch of black mushrooms hides in a nearby corner, giving the room an earthy scent that is barely noticeable above the stench of wet fur. Two Wolves, stand in front of a larger wolf whose fur is mottled gray. He's easily 6 inches taller at the shoulders than the other two...its this one that smiles? a toothy grin at the little curious gnome...

Curiosity satisfied little one? Now go kill me my Spider.

Map: http://prntscr.com/hs4pem

Fidget sees the strange talking wolf, and then turns and heads into the hallway Squeezing past all the people in the hallway including the new funny dressed tall one, talking non stop. Come on Rennik, did you see him he's a lot bigger then normal wolfs. But he really needs to be brushed his fur is all matted. I bet he would be fast if I was riding him. Did I ever mention that I've always wanted a riding dog. Hi new guy you sure do dress funny. My name is Fidget whats yours. Oh! he told me that what we have to fight is a giant spider. Have you ever seen one of those I haven't ever seen one myself. i would how big a giant spider is. It could be as big as a dog or maybe even a horse.
This message was last edited by the player at 15:04, Tue 26 Dec 2017.

"I believe the word you are looking for is wolVEs. Learn to speak propah common," Francis immediately went defensive when his choice of attire was criticized. "And it just so happens that I have seen giant spiders before-" he went on being important. But it didn't hold for long as he was forced to admit "-...in pictures of my study books," while looking away and not standing as tall as before.

Fidget nearly trampled Nomerendal when she turned back around and headed for the tower with Rennick. Nom had ventured to poke his head around the corner to see for himself the talking wolf! Dodging out of the way at the last moment, he gasped and then followed along. As he passed the newcomer, he grinned broadly.

"I suppose that's a deal Sir Francis, in fact I myself am a minstrel with a modest following in Falcon's Hollow. I'd be delighted to add your name to our roster of exploits, but I do need to inform you that if you're looking to attend some grand adventure, this is hardly it. I mean darkmantles, mushrooms, poisoned wells, dangerous river crossings, flying deathly abductions, and now apparently a talking wolf... pretty run-of-the-mill stuff. While it's all interesting in a tale, these sorts of obstacles aren't really song worthy... at least not yet, but I hope one day to join a group of intrepid adventurers tasked with saving many a helpless soul!"

For the first time, Nomerendal began to question his insistence that this outing they were on was only a minor favor and task devoid of major consequence. That list of challenges they'd faced was arguably similar to many a tale of humble beginnings he'd told over the years. He scratched his head a little as they crossed the courtyard, wondering...

"Well, do we go it with weapons swinging, or do we set some sort of trap? I'd really rather not get bitten by a spider. And what about webs? I've heard stories..." Nomerendal craned his head back and looked far up to the top of the tower to determine if there was any way it might be scaled.

Tarack still busy with Variana's body, the others make their way to the tower and stand outside looking at the door, though they find themselves looking at the sky many times....

Map: http://prntscr.com/hshe0g

"Violence is the tool of the incompetent" Francis quoted a well known proverb by a famous philosopher. "Even in politics, war is merely the last tool of diplomacy. Meaning-" he decided to clarify just in case the message went over someone's head "-going in "weapons swinging" should always be our last resort, a fallback plan if you will, for such action requires no thought, preparation or planning," Francis went on, but for once he wasn't just patronizing the others. He actually intended to bring something to the table.

"These ruins are very old and in poor shape. I'm sure I can find some area where the stress is significant enough so that if the structure is weakened in several key locations, one solid blow could bring a section of the ceiling down without jeopardizing the integrity of the rest of the tower. After that we just lure the spider into the zone, I'm sure just shooting it at a distance would cause it to come running at us, and make it collapse onto him. If he's still alive after that we can just finish him off 'the old fashioned way', with 'swords swinging' as you put it so eloquently." Francis finished pitching his idea. "So, what do you think?"

Rennick answers: "Francis, if you can do that, that would be a very good action. After you collapse the roof, I'll open the door and move in to finish the spider."

Tarack scratches his beard in consideration. "If we can do it quickly, that is a good plan. But, we must also be conscious of the what we came here looking for. If the mushrooms get buried, we would have won the battle and lost the war."

Francis studies the Tower and marvels at the dwarven stonework. They built it to last. He cannot determine a place that is weaker than another.

"Reputation well earned" Francis muttered under his breath as he marveled at the building. He stroked his chin as alternative plans formed in his mind

"Hmmm...Well, as the saying goes 'If brute stength is not enough, then you aren't using enough brute strength' meaning everything, even this building, can be brought down with pure firepower, unfortunately I don't have that kind of equipment with me. Still..." he looked down, near his feet at the fallen roof tiles, then back up at the 3 floor tower. Aside from some arrow slits on the 2nd and 3rd floor he saw no other windows or opening. But still...

Francis's eyes went wide as his brain raced at light speed and came to a breaking iadea "Without knowing exactly what kind of spider we're dealing with, we have no idea whether it prefers darker places of more sunlight, meaning its lair could be on any of the 3 floors so if we enter through the most obvious entrance, the front door, we'd be playing the game according to his rules. He'd have the advantage no matter what. HOWEVER, more spiders prefer the dark than don't so odds are in our favor it's on the 1st of 2nd floor. This tower doesn't seem that hard to climb so if one of you could climb to the top and throw down a rope we could make our assault from a position f power. Furthermore, whoever is going up should check through the arrow slots. Maybe we'll get lucky and pinpoint the spider's location, allowing for an even better assault strategy. And if we're REALLY lucky, we might be able to even shoot at it through the arrow slits without any danger to us!" he spoke with such speed and excitement that he forgot to put on his act and by the time he was done he was breathing fast. "Er, ahem, ^{I mean}, yes, quite so. So, are we doing this and if yes who's going to do the climb? And don't look at me, I merely came up with the idea."

"Well I'm with you on this one Francis, I'm not a climber... and you're right, I don't think a spider will come out in the open unless it's to hunt. What if we try to smoke it out? Granted it might take a while - time we really don't have - but it might be the only way we can force our hand..."

"Fidget, have you any of the old family magic? I've met a few of our uncles and aunts that can move things as if by a magical sort of hand... you didn't happen to inherit this type of power did you? If so, perhaps you could move the end of a rope up to the top to aid one of us in climbing up there!"

"Arell, Rennick and Tarack are the spider smashers of us lot. You guys will need to create some space so I can poke holes in it with arrows..."

"You could also just drop one of these in through the slits" Francis said as he detached one of the weird spherical knob thingies off that even weirder smoke puffing backpack he had.


This message was last edited by the player at 21:04, Wed 27 Dec 2017.

Nomerendal took an involuntary step away from Francis as he looked dubiously on at the weird gnome-toy he'd produced. Having seen similar inventions crafted by various "uncles", Nom had a respectful skepticism for the reliability - and volatility - of such creations.

"Uh... easy does it Francis. Tarack has a good point. Smoked mushrooms are one thing, but smashed mushrooms are entirely different. I suspect it would take us days and days to fish the bits out from beneath the rubble if the whole thing comes crashing down..."

With a bit of a lump in his throat as he remembered Variana and her fate not long ago in the library, Nom moved to examine the door for anything obvious. Tentatively, he tested the handle...

Take 10 on Perception for trappy: 15
Is it locked? Nudge/Push open a little...

In reply to Francis Sighnd (msg # 236):

Rennick said in answer to Francis' plan to climb upwards:
"I like that and I am an excellent climber. So let me go up and then I'll help you get up there as well."
Rennick starts to climb upwards.

OOC: Rennick's climb skill is +8, but -1 because of armor, take 10 at climbing, result 17.
He climbs up at the one quarter of normal speed, but he uses double moves.

"Reeeeeelax, I've got-" Francis began telling Nom, then caught himself and stood up straighter "-ahem, ^{I mean}, fear not my paranoid compatriot, this contraption is of mine own making, not some crude tool of the unvisionary," he tossed it in the air and caught it with his other hand. "I have placed triple redundancies and quadruple mutually dependent trigger mechanisms-" he tossed it again, higher (clearly just showing off at this point) caught it again and brought it closed to Nom's face for him to get a better look, "There is no way this thing will do anything unless I want it to," he threw it a third time, even higher, but when it fell down he failed to catch it, causing it to land with a *thud* right at his and Now's feet. Francis visibly jerked, as if his heart had caught in his throat and stayed that way. There was a long moment of silence where he did nothing but stare at the metal canister with saucer plate eyes. A sweat drop escaped down the side of his cheek.

Nothing happened. There was a loud gulp before Francis spoke again "S-See," his voice was several octaves too high and there was an exaggerated grin of reassurance on his face that implied any sane man should clearly see this was a deliberate demonstration to show just how confident he was in his work, and most definitely not a blunder he unintentionally made that could have cost someone a finger, a limb or even their life if the contraption wasn't "safe".

He then picked it up and put it back in its place before any other non-scheduled demonstrations occurred.

"...Or we could just walk into the base of the tower, find where the spider is, and kill it the old fashioned way." Arell says into the silence after that little demonstration, "We need more than just the half dozen or so the wolf has and I'd rather not destroy any through..." he pauses, searching for the right word, "happenstance."

He looks to the rest of the group, "Those...canisters of his are finite, and we'd best save them for something that deserves it.  This tower isn't it."

I have many spells that I know cousin but that one is not among the ones I know.  I can do other stuff. With that said the green haired gnome steps up beside the other gnome, not wanting him to get to see the giant spider first. Are you going inside cousin, I want to go with you, lets go see a really big spider. I wonder if he eats really big flies?

Francis sighed dramatically and pinched his nose before saying slowly and patronizingly to Arell "^{What did I just say about violence and last tools?} Look, I'm not saying we blow up the place, not that we could. I'm just saying lets enter through the roof rather than the obvious. front. door." which would've had a much stronger impact if he hadn't made a fool of himself 5 seconds ago. "It would increase the chances of catching the spider unawares and gaining an advantage in the fight."
This message was last edited by the player at 00:49, Thu 28 Dec 2017.

Tarack decided to let the others come with the plan. When the time came, he would do his part.

"So...you're arguing that a massive eight-legged arachnid to whom climbing things is second nature but has no appendage even remotely resembling a hand's first instinct, upon preparing itself for danger, is to watch a small chunk of the wall made of wood instead of stone?"

Arell let's that point hang, content to let it sink in.

As Rennick was climbing upwards, he heard the discussion below, but he didn't answer.
It was typical of humans that they would try to make Rennick look bad, by arguing that his action was useless.
But Rennick was used to that kind of behavior towards him. He had never trusted other humans, not after his parents were killed.
So he didn't trust Arell either, with his wise-seeming talks.
Rennick knew that the wolves' master had probably tried to enter the tower through the door and that the spider had probably surprised him then. So the spider knew that an enemy could enter through the 'small chunk made of wood' and yes, the spider would guard against that.
Francis' plan to surprise the spider still made perfect sense in Rennick's view.

Rennick begins to climb the tower, its fairly easy going, placing feet in between bricks and grasping the cracks with his finger tips. About 15 feet up he comes to an arrow slit and peers inside make a perception check


Nomerendal in the meantime examined the doorway and shrugged. nothing noticeable was present. Then gave the doorway a nudge. It didnt open and he realized it was stuck. The Door swelling to keep it tight against the jamb. DC 13 Str check to open
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:31, Thu 28 Dec 2017.

OOC: 16:11, Today: Rennick Hitman rolled 18 using 1d20+4.  Perception.

Rennick whispers to the others below: "There are no floors, just a staircase inside, but don't use that staircase, it's supports are broken."
Rennick climbs on and tries to get onto the roof.

"Can you see the spider?" Arell whispers back.

"Perhaps its too dark. Maybe if I took a look?" Tarack would not enjoy the climb, but is willing to try if others ask.

Nom wasn't sure why everyone was whispering all of a sudden, but decided to join in. "Spiders don't hear, they feel." he said... in a whisper.

Still in the spirit of covertness, the little gnome motioned to his much bigger friend. "Arell, the door's stuck in the jam!" He pushed, but was only successful in skidding his small feet away from the building. Standing back upright, he shrugged helplessly.

Nomerendal leaned his head back to look up at Rennick who was scaling the tower. A smile crept over his face as he watched. "He's pretty good at that!" he whispered to no one in particular.

As Francis listened to the report, his brain started racing again. Only this time his eyes narrowed rather than go rounder with excitement. "...waaait...if the door is stuck...and the means upward are destroyed then...*gasp* Oh no"

His head immediately snapped back up Rennick "Woodsman, be extra careful. Without a ground access, the spider must enter and exit its tower lair to hunt through an opening we can't see. And the only part of the tower we can't see is the very top. The roof!"

He did consider an underground path but it seemed unlikely. Arell had had a point earlier. Spiders were good at climbing. But digging? Not so much.

EDIT: ninja'd again.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:57, Thu 28 Dec 2017.

In reply to Arell Kirkwood (msg # 250):

Rennick shook his head in answer to Arell's question.

If we can get the door open I can make lights, and move them up the stairs so we can see the big spider.

Arell follows the thread of the conversation as best he can.

"Right, Rennick? he said in a normal speaking voice, "If you can find a spot to pelt it with arrows without falling off or notifying it early, stay up there.  Otherwise come down.  I'll kick in the door once you're in position."

"I'm not sure if this is a good idea, given that we don't know if the spider is aware of us or not, but if you're having problem with illumination try this" Francis says as he detaches a different kind of doo dat from that weird piece-mail armor that he has and throws it up at Rennick to catch.


"You can just slip it in through the arrow slit. When it falls down it will let you see if the spider is there at the base of the tower. And even if it's not then surely the light source will catch its attention and lure it to the bottom" he reasoned.
This message was last edited by the player at 00:39, Fri 29 Dec 2017.

Rennick tries to catch the lamp and tries to climb on with the object strung to his belt, until he reaches either the roof or another arrowslit.

"You're gonna have to push this door open Arell, there's no way I'll make it budge."

Then to Fidget, "Ah yes! I've got a bit of the old magic myself! Between the two of us, I'm sure we could reeeally light things up in there!" Nomerendal grinned.

"Rennick!" Nom continued to whisper for some reason, "let us know when you're ready!"

Francis looked away from the nimble ranger and back upon the stubborn door.

"Hmmm_mm..." he said as he rubbed his chin and narrowed his eyes.

He lowered a pair of spectacles, (with black lenses) that had been tucked up into his hat, and flipped a lever on his weird gauntlet arm. A gentle whistling sound could be heard, like air blowing through a narrow opening, and indeed Nom could suddenly feel a breeze blowing in his face. "Hm?" Francis's furrowed brow rose as he noticed the gnome's dancing hair. "Mmmh..." he turned his arm's direction elsewhere. The breeze stopped.

He started snapping his metal covered fingers, causing a spark on the 3rd try.

GAAAAAAAAAAAAH!!!

Immediately an orange 10ft jet of flame roared to life. "Humph" was all Francis did to acknowledge it, then proceeded to taking turns turning on the 2 valves atop the 2 tubes leading from his armored arm to the weird metallic backpack that he had.

GAAAAAH  HAAAAAAA hhhhhh ^{ssssss sssssssssss}

The flame shrank down, going more silent and changing color. From orange to yellow, to red to blue, to finally an almost whitish cyan visible only an inch from the tip of his armored fingers.

He approached the door and ran his findertip along the hinges of the door. The metal parted as if someone had cut cloth with a pair of scissors. But the door remained standing even after it's support had been cut off.

The flames died, Francis tucked his spectacles back up under his hat. "Whell now, *sniff* <Red>that should lessen your load later on" he said Arell's way.

Strength DC for opening the door is lowered by...I dunno how much but it'll be less than 13.
This message was last edited by the player at 23:23, Sat 30 Dec 2017.

Tarack mumbles a few words and his hand glows slightly. He waits to see as to who will attempt to force the door and touch that person before the attempt.

OOC: Cast Guidance on whoever tries to force the door. +1 on one check attempt

Once he's sure Rennick is in a position to help (regardless of where that is), Arell takes a moment to figure out just where the door is stuck before kicking the damn thing to splinters.

That'll teach the door to get in his way.


20:37, Today: Arell Kirkwood rolled 24 using 1d20+5.  Str roll to Kick the Door in, DC 11 guidance/Tarrack.

Rennick completed his climb to the top, and moved out on the tiled roof, finding a trap door on the corner near where he climbed and prepared to open it.

Francis melts the hinges into a mess of metal and steps back and Arell takes a few steps and kicks the door into splinters revealing the room beyond.

Hearing the splintering of the door, Rennick jerked open the door allowing moonlight to flood the chamber.

In the shadowy tower The Giant Spider prepared to feast as it shot a web down at Arell 08:38, Today: DM Dread rolled 13 using 1d20+7.  ranged touch vs Arell 11.
the web struck him in his 08:39, Today: DM Dread rolled 7 using 1d8.  web strike 1-kicking leg, 2-other leg, 3 rt arm 4 lt arm 5 head 6-8 torso. on his body and he was pulled into the tower. Immediately he was entangled in the mass of webbing that had been fired at him.

The Spider is 15' off the ground

Arell is Entangled The character is ensnared. Being entangled impedes movement, but does not entirely prevent it unless the bonds are anchored to an immobile object or tethered by an opposing force. An entangled creature moves at half speed, cannot run or charge, and takes a –2 penalty on all attack rolls and a –4 penalty to Dexterity. An entangled character who attempts to cast a spell must make a concentration check (DC 15 + spell level) or lose the spell.

the interior of the tower is in shadows 20% miss

Map: http://prntscr.com/hujnf7

Combat Summary

Arell [Entangled] AC:16(T-11/FF-15)CMD:16 HP:10/10 FO:+2 RE:+1 WL:+1
1st Paladin Human Male

Nomerendal AC:16(T-14/FF-13) CMD:+11 HP:10/10 FO:+2 RE:+5 WL:+1
1st Bard Gnome Male Defensive Training: +4 dodge vs monsters (giant subtype)
Illusion Resistance: +2 save bonus vs illusion spells & effects.

Rennick AC:14(T-11/FF-13)CMD:16 HP:13/12 FO:+4 RE:+3 WL:0
1st Ranger Human Male +1 saves Vs vision affects

Tarack AC:16(T-12/FF-14)CMD:12 HP:10/10 FO:+4 RE:+2 WL:+5
1st Druid Dwarf Male defenses

Carl AC:17(T-16/FF-12)CMD:17 Trip-21 HP:19/19 FO:+4 RE:+8 WL:+1
Leopard  Animal Companion

Buddy AC:15(T-12/FF-13)CMD:15 Trip-19 HP:11/11 FO:+4 Re:+5 WL:+2
Ram Pet

Fidget AC:12(T-12/FF-11)CMD:+10 HP:9/9 FO:+3 RE:+3 WL:+2
1st Sorcerer Fey Bloodline Gnome Female

Frances AC:12 (T-12/FF-10) CMD:13 HP:7/7 FO:+1 RE:+4 WL:+2
1st Gearhead Human Male Defenses: Steam Bleed- Partial and Total concealment.

Vs

Giant Spider AC:18(T-15/FF-13) CMD:19 HP:27/27 FO:+6 RE:+6 WL:+3
Medium Vermin Female Immune to Mind Affecting

"Damn it" Francis cursed as Arell didn't wait for Rennick to get in position and drop the gadget inside, and more importantly, to tell them what the situation was inside before they stormed in.

Thinking quickly, Francis ducked in to see if there were any mushrooms around, and then, noticing the spider was up in the air, and thus in no danger of damaging any potential mushrooms, he pulled out a canister.

After quickly pressing the buttons, turning some of them in a series of complicated twists since they were dials, he waited for the right moment then threw it at the spider. The canister exploded in midair and engulfed the spider in burning napalm.



19:39, Today: Francis Sighnd rolled 10 using 1d20+6.  perception check.

19:46, Today: Francis Sighnd rolled 5 using 1d4+1.  Canister.
DC 15 reflex save to avoid catching fire. And half damage.

Move to: 36/12

EDIT: OOOOH wait, I just noticed the spider was hanging in midair. That changes things. I'm ganna throw a napalm bomb at him. The fire should burn the web he's using to hang off the ceiling and drop him down.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:51, Sun 31 Dec 2017.

Using the light from the lamp at his belt (Francis' device),
Rennick shoots an arrow at the spider with his compsite longbow.

Ooc: to hit 16, roll for miss 69, damage 2, I don't know if miss chance applies because of the light.

Arell makes an uncustomary yelp as he's dragged into the darkness.  And it's a moment or two before he realizes just what a pickle he's in.

Upside down, trapped, giant spider...

This was bad.

But was it really?  His duty was be the shield of the party...he got hurt so they didn't have to.  He was right where he was supposed to be.

Right where he wanted to be.

Right next to spider...elevated to its level.  Upside down, yes, but he could still move his arms, and his sword.  So he takes the opportunity the spider gave him, and stabbed the ugly thing in between several of its eyes.

"Congratulations.  You caught me."


I hit, I dodge the percentiles, I give the spider something to think about.

13:06, Today: Arell Kirkwood rolled 14 using 2d6+6. damage vs spider

13:05, Today: Arell Kirkwood rolled 56 using 1d100.  percentile 20 or less misses.

13:05, Today: Arell Kirkwood rolled 18 using 1d20+3.  Attack vs spider, -2 for entangled

Stepping up to the door way, the little gnome looks up using dark vision she can clearly see Arell up side down stabbing the spider focusing on her magic she launches a glowing ball of force up striking the spider in the same place Arell stabbed it. Take that bug, let him go!

17:55, Today: Fidget Mossgrower rolled 4 using 1d4+1. Damage Magic Missle.

Nomerendal poked his head around the corner, lead by the tip of an arrow from his small bow. He released the shot into the darkness, or rather into the center of a dark mass, and watched with consternation as it seemed to do very little.

"Sorry Arell!" he whispered very loudly.

To hit: Nomerendal Tunespinner rolled 15
Miss (20%): Nomerendal Tunespinner rolled 72

Tarack stands back and offers useful advice to others, specifically Arell. "You need to strike a bit the left. No need to force the damage. The slow blade sinks deep."

OOC: Combat Advice +2 competence bonus on her next attack roll against that enemy.

Francis moved into the web covered room and saw Arell and The Spider in the air amid the webbing, Arell partially wrapped up. He then pulled a canister out and pushed some buttons on it and threw it up to strike the the spider, engulfing it in a flash of chemical fire. The webbing inside the tower burned away in the blicnk of an eye and no longer was the spider partially concealed by webbing, lessening the shadows in the tower. 09:46, Today: DM Dread rolled 20 using 1d20+6.  spider reflex save. The spider leapt from the webbing to the side of the wall, and avoided most of the burning chemical.

The webs supporting Arell burned away and Arell fell amid the crates and barrels 09:49, Today: DM Dread rolled 5 using 1d6.  damage to arell. and as he was falling he was swinging his blade so he did not try and twist to avoid damage and hit the ground on his shoulders and side hard on the stone floor.

Rennick tried firing his bow and the flash from the webbing igniting and burning away so quickly messed with his vision and the arrow hit the wall and broke near the spider.

Arell swung his blade hard as he was falling and the blade bit into the spider and sliced it dearly and then Arell hit the ground.

Fidget stepped in and pointed her fingers after whispering an arcane phrase and a pink ball of force struck the spider.

Nomerendal stepped into the doorway and loosed an arrow which had no more luck than Rennicks. I hope you folks are keeping track of lost ammunition so I dont have to track it ;)

Tarack moved to the doorway and gave combat advice to Arell who lay on the floor.

10:03, Today: DM Dread rolled 5 using 1d6.  1-3 flee 4-6 fight spiders action.

the spider thought for a second to try to squeeze through the arrow slits as it did when it hunted at times but became enraged that its nest of young had been slain and jumped to the floor trying to bite the Paladin. 10:06, Today: DM Dread rolled 8 using 1d20+4.  Melee touch vs Arell AC 11. but the Paladin rolled to the side and avoided them.

10:08, Today: DM Dread rolled 23 using 1d20+4.  attack of opportunity vs Arell if he tries to stand AC 11. Ill hold off with the damage and subsequent save for the venom to see what he does. just know and post accordingly Arell if you want to stand and swing normal or fight with the melee weapon from prone. and take the negative modifier.


Map: http://prntscr.com/hv6jf1

Combat Summary

Arell [Entangled] AC:16(T-11/FF-15)CMD:16 HP:10/10 FO:+2 RE:+1 WL:+1
1st Paladin Human Male

Nomerendal AC:16(T-14/FF-13) CMD:+11 HP:10/5 FO:+2 RE:+5 WL:+1
1st Bard Gnome Male Defensive Training: +4 dodge vs monsters (giant subtype)
Illusion Resistance: +2 save bonus vs illusion spells & effects.

Rennick AC:14(T-11/FF-13)CMD:16 HP:13/12 FO:+4 RE:+3 WL:0
1st Ranger Human Male +1 saves Vs vision affects

Tarack AC:16(T-12/FF-14)CMD:12 HP:10/10 FO:+4 RE:+2 WL:+5
1st Druid Dwarf Male defenses

Carl AC:17(T-16/FF-12)CMD:17 Trip-21 HP:19/19 FO:+4 RE:+8 WL:+1
Leopard  Animal Companion

Buddy AC:15(T-12/FF-13)CMD:15 Trip-19 HP:11/11 FO:+4 Re:+5 WL:+2
Ram Pet

Fidget AC:12(T-12/FF-11)CMD:+10 HP:9/9 FO:+3 RE:+3 WL:+2
1st Sorcerer Fey Bloodline Gnome Female

Frances AC:12 (T-12/FF-10) CMD:13 HP:7/7 FO:+1 RE:+4 WL:+2
1st Gearhead Human Male Defenses: Steam Bleed- Partial and Total concealment.

Vs

Giant Spider AC:18(T-15/FF-13) CMD:19 HP:27/7 FO:+6 RE:+6 WL:+3
Medium Vermin Female Immune to Mind Affecting

"DUCK!" yelled Francis as he leveled that same blunt baton-like weapon with the hole in the middle as if it were a crossbow.

A cone of orange flame spewed out of it, except unlike before there was no liquid. It was just pure, dry, simple heat. It singed Arell just a little bit on the side, but no big deal, his armor would protect him from it. However, without a permanent accelerant (such as liquid), and without it being focused (like earlier when he had cut the hinges), the heat easily dispersed without causing any real damage no anyone and anything.

It was very flashy though.

"Hmmmmm...something's telling me I'm the 3rd wheel here ^{in a bicycle contraption that is}, so, uh, excuse me," he decided to make himself scarce when he realized just how ineffective his weapon was. In his defense though, it was a prototype.

Standard action: Blowtorch max range - affected squares 13/36 14/36 14/37 15/36 15/37
Move action: from 12/36 to 10/36

18:36, Today: Francis Sighnd rolled 1,17 using 1d4,1d20+6.  Blowtorch and the spiders reflex save for half dmg.

Spider takes 1 fire dmg.

Rennick ducked away as the heat of the fire washed over the top of the tower, and then moved back to aim a careful shot at the spider again, but it wasn't aimed well enough to penetrate the spider's natural armor.

18:50, Today: Rennick Hitman rolled 16 using 1d20+2.  Shoot arrow at spider.
Rennick has now 18 arrows left after this shot. I'll adjust the number on the CS.

"He's aiming at the wrong spot..." Nomerendal realized as he saw Rennick duck his head back to line up another shot with his bow. He tried to wave with his hand to indicate that the shot was not going to penetrate the hard carapace where it was aimed, but Rennick was in the moment and didn't seem to notice! The gnome watched as the arrow was loosed and almost without thinking, he extended his will on the streaking shaft, calling upon the Old Magic he'd just chatted briefly about with Fidget. Like a magical extension of his own hand, he subtly guided the arrow just a bit to one side toward a joint in the spider's naturally armored body.

"There!" he whispered with satisfaction. He shrugged at Arell who appeared to glower at the gnome for not firing another arrow. As an afterthought, the gnome used the magical hand to strum the arrow causing it to make a twanging sound as if it had been shot into a tree trunk.

And then he smiled proudly.


OOC: Mage Hand Cantrip! I have no idea if you'll allow that GM, but it struck me in the moment as being pretty cool. Oughta be worth a +2 to Rennick's attack roll shouldn't it? Sort of an Aid attempt? :-P
CHA check for Mage Handi-nanigans: Nomerendal Tunespinner rolled 14
This message was last edited by the player at 19:57, Tue 02 Jan 2018.

Guided by Nomerendal's magic hand, Rennick's arrow hits the spider!
"Thanks, Nomerendal!"

OOC: 21:17, Today: Rennick Hitman rolled 5 using 1d8+1.  Damage of the arrow guided by mage hand.