After the raucous laughter over Catweazel and Dwarghar mastering the art of the wand, the party begins to get their affairs in order to prepare for another plunge into the dungeon, seeking something more than a forgotten stockpile of silver.

Those who stay behind take the tools and building supplies to build. At Catweazel's advise, they begin construction on a wooden hut, secure enough for a spellcaster to study or pray in safety, or for a wounded adventurer to lay on a cot and heal safely when healing is in short supply.

In reply to DM (msg # 1):

Brodd gets in line ready to go in again.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:06, Tue 02 Feb 2021.

Manaku seeks to be in the second rank, hopefully behind a line of strong fighter types. Preferably he'd walk behind a dwarf, so that he can shoot an arrow or throw a javelin over their heads while avoiding close up melee.

Dwarghar can go in front with his shiny new armor.

Durek carefully follows Alietra's lead...amongst those at the front of the party.

Leohart will be towards the back.

If she hasn't fallen asleep waiting, Alietra is still poised in the front, ready to scout the entrance.

Pock positions himself near Brodd, trying to keep a solid angle to hit any oncoming goblins from.

"Let's see how that new armor holds up," Einhard jested with the dwarf as he took his place at the front. The knight clenched his shield down on his forearm and adjusted his grip on his sword. "Lead on, trusty scout," he called to Alietra.

The trusty non-thief type scout leads on, as requested.

[Creston, Jarvak, and Amalrik, please state your positions in line or we'll assume you're guarding the campsite.]

Further up the trail, along the hills and gullies, you see a man in a cleric's tunic approaching the encampment.

"From your temple? asks Durek, turning to look at Brother Brodd.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:19, Wed 03 Feb 2021.

In reply to Durek Stoneshield (msg # 13):

Brodd looks up and tries to get a good view, "I'm not sure, maybe I'll be able to tell when he gets closer."

Manaku looks up as well. He doesn't expect to see a familiar face this far from his homelands, but you never know... "A new ally, perhaps?"

"Well surely the gods are against our incursions, will we never get moving?"

That is the cleaned up version of what Alietra had to say actually, but luckily it was too herself, which was good, she would have been embarrassed to have Brother Brodd and the others hear that kind of language come from her mouth.

At this point she is seriously considering changing back in to her jammies and going back to bed. Maybe next month we could get started...

[rehashing the scene for the newcomers]

The party lines up, ready to climb the steps that make up the "laces" in the sandal of the humongous stone foot that was once the base for a colossal statue. The statue once overlooks these cliffs, and you gather the colossus served as a beacon and a tourist attraction for what was once a thriving city. Now nearly all traces are gone except for the village of Caywick and hour's hike away. Once at the top, a shaft with a spiral stairway once presumably trailed up the the top of the statue and down underneath the base, but now, obviously, it only descends into the earth where goblinoids and, as legends tell, a dragon, took over the infrastructure built into the cliffs.

Alietra careful creeps forward and peers down into the entrance as best she can.

The traveler in the cleric's robe finally arrives at the border of the camp. It's obvious now that his robe and holy symbol are from same order as Brother Brodd.

In reply to DM (msg # 19):

Brodd waits a moment to greet the newcomer. "Welcome brother, I am Brother Brodd, how may we call you? We are in the middle of wiping out an infestation of goblins. Will you await us or join us?"

Heading back to the party, Alietra clearly has given up on stealth today.

"With all this yelling, they have to know we are coming now. You armored types go first, I'll hang back with the archers for now."

"If you say so, lass," replies Durek, shrugging apologetically, "But we'll need your skills once we get inside".

The sturdy dwarf moves ahead a little before turning to look back...he waits patiently for the others to follow.

Dwarghar makes his way back to the coin machine or wherever he’s stopped before then.

"Greetings, Brother," the tall man said, the tabard he wore over his mail displaying the solar livery of the Unified Faith. "I'm Paxton.  I heard you could use a hand."  He didn't smile, but nodded towards the entrance to the dangers below.  "I've come to help, not watch," he replied sardonically.

At Alietra's entreaty, he unlimbered his shield and readied himself, drawing a stout mace in his weapon hand.

"Do we have a source of light?  I brought a lantern," he offered.

"If Alietra is done with it, I can go and scout ahead. Darkness doesn't bother me. I can see as much as the goblins, I think." Manaku offers and with that moves forward and starts ascending the stairs. "We've waited long enough." He doesn't look back if the others follow or not. "If you see me running back in haste, prepare your weapons!"
This message was last edited by the player at 21:15, Fri 05 Feb 2021.

Dwarghar continues in the dark humming a jaunty tune.

"Ah, if seeing in the dark is important, I suppose I should step ahead with you, friend." Pock, regretting his pointing out this capability of his people, trotted forward to move some distance behind Manaku. He waved briefly to his friend Brodd as he stepped forward, and drew his minuscule bow in case he had to cover the elf.

"The dark holds no fears for we Dwarves," says Durek, happy to at last be setting off.

He follows after the Moon Elf, battle axe resting on his broad shoulder.
This message was last edited by the player at 11:30, Sat 06 Feb 2021.

Shaking her head with a wry grin as the men measure and compare their peepee's, Alietra doesn't find reason to remind them that goblins see just fine in the dark as well. Having lost any chance of surprise however, she was happy putting metal armor between her and their steel.
This message was last edited by the player at 13:57, Sat 06 Feb 2021.

Brodd moves alongside Alietra behind his friend Pock. Warhammer ready.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:57, Sat 06 Feb 2021.

Paxton fell in, taking up an empty spot near the front.  He had his mace ready for smiting.

Durek nods amiably as Paxton moves up beside him. "Greetings," he says, in a low voice, "Another strong arm never goes amiss when dealing with Goblins in the dark!"
This message was lightly edited by the player at 17:07, Sat 06 Feb 2021.

Manaku finds his way to the top, gives a quick thumbs up for the party behind, and carefully starts to sneak down the spiral staircase, alert for smallest sign of trouble or ambush.

Vision shifting from normal sight to infra-vision is as fascinating as always. Slight sense of unease comes with it because its rather close range. The area beyond its range is just gray noise, like permanent wall of fog or snow blizzard. That means listening becomes more important. For every ten steps the elf stops completely, listening what noises can be heard from the shaft.

Durek follows after the Moon Elf, descending far enough that he can watch the receding figure with his infra-vision. He waits patiently for a signal from Manaku.

Paxton nodded to Durek.  "Well met," he said.  "I just hope someone lights a lantern before the fighting starts, I'd hate to get hit upside the head by an ally."

When the elf catches up, Dwarghar will magnanimously let him pass.

In reply to Dwarghar Stoneblood (msg # 36):

Brodd lights a torch.

"Thanks for the light, Brother," Alietra says, as the re-enter the shadowy corridors.

In reply to Dwarghar Stoneblood (msg # 36):

Manaku touches the dwarf at the shoulder, acknowledging his gesture, and passes him quietly.

The party takes the spiral steps downward until it empties into the 30x30 square chamber from its northwest corner.

Facing south, there is a door on the right end of the wall. That, as you recall, led to a second chamber and then the treasure room.

Facing east, there is a passageway on the left side of the wall leading towards unexplored territory.

Not having been down here before, Paxton asked, "Which way?"

"The room with the silver had no other exits, best as I can recall. We could go double check, but I suspect out time would be better spent exploring new ground to the east."

In reply to Alietra (msg # 42):

Brodd follows, Warhammer at the ready. He seems to be distracted by something, but it is hard to tell what. He stays by Pock and Alietra.

Durek nods in agreement with Alietra. "East it is then, lass," he says in a low voice. "I shall be right behind you."

Dwarghar continues along with the others.

Creston follows, near the party's rear, and keeps an ear open for anything suspicious behind them.

Immediately the party notices there's light in the passageway ahead. Several torches' worth.

Having been in the lead previously, Alietra was curious to see how the new point-guard would handle the situation.

It seemed unlikely she would be in a position to use a bow, what with so many people in front of her, but she gets out an arrow just in case.

The freshman point-guard handles it so that he sneaks closer to the lights, all the way up to the torchlight edge while remaining in the shadows, unless he notices something alarming before that.

Stretched in grotesque shadows across the left wall you see the silhouettes of two huge insectoid creatures, The flickering light keeps shaking the images but one seems upright and one seems slumped over. Their jointed limbs writhe incessantly and their antennae stretch in shadow to curve across the ceiling.

Eek!

Biting his lip as not to curse aloud, Manaku backpedals as quietly as possible to the main party. He whispers to them: "Two huge insectoid creatures ahead by the torches. No idea what they are. I've never seen anything like them before. Didn't stay to check if we can communicate with each other - Somehow I doubt it..."

"You never know with shadows.  They're liable to be two feet tall," Paxton commented.  "Should we get a better look, and try to reason with them if they're halfway decent?"
This message was last edited by the player at 17:10, Tue 09 Feb 2021.

Giant bugs!
Dwarghar says drawing his sword.
I’ll “reason” with em. Let’s go

"Reason with them?" hisses Durek, at the same as Dwarghar. He flashes a grin at the other Dwarf.

"I agree with my friend here...there is no reasoning with insects in my experience. We either find another route or convince these creatures to leave..." he says, patting his battle-axe.

Glad to have relinquished point, the young not-a-thief looked to Brother Brodd for comfort.

"Dwarves," Paxton groused, shaking his head.  "I've never met a giant bug.  If the thing can talk, we can reason with it.  But, by all means, charge ahead and try chopping it to bits, first."

He readied his mace, though.  It was clear if they went in, he was going with them.

Well, Paxton was correct. There's a crack in the right side of the passageway, and there are several fire beetles inside, each a bit over two feet long. Their glowing attachments created the shadow play on the opposite wall.

[1XP for Paxton]

Grumbling, Pock drew back an arrow and followed in after his friends.

Durek moves towards the crack, battle-axe at the ready should any of the fire beetles try to move into the passage.

"Quickly," he hisses to his companions, motioning for them to move past the crack.



[If I've understood properly, Durek will stand in front of the crack and Parry (only if he needs to) any attacks from the beetles should they try to enter the passage...hopefully giving the rest of the party the time to pass by]
This message was last edited by the player at 08:08, Wed 10 Feb 2021.

"Ok, ok, they're not huge but they're still the biggest fricking bugs I've seen..." Manaku mutters when he understands what scared him. He passes Durek and the crack quickly and proceeds to scout the passage ahead.

Assuming everything goes as planned, Alietra will pass the firebugs by as well.

In reply to Alietra (msg # 61):

Brodd passes them next. If they ignored the party, the party could ignore them.

Dwarghar grunts and continues on after the scouts.

Paxton moved past the crack, but paused on the other side, waiting for Durek... ready to assist if things go wrong.

In reply to Durek Stoneshield (msg # 59):

The bugs seem to be ignoring Durek and doing their buggie things in the crevice.

Durek gives Paxton a nod and, once everyone has gone past, rejoins the rest of them.

Paxton falls in with Durek and then tries to resume his original position in the party.

Leo follows, not sure he wants to return past the bugs.

Lesson learned from the fire beetles, Manaku resumes his position at the point and scouts the passage ahead using his infravision.

Sharing a smile with the good Brother, Alietra continues onward, though she does spare half-a-second to look at the bugs as they pass by, never having seen such a thing. She spends the other half a second examining the crack they are in, could that be a secret door of some kind?

OOC: Please make the roll for me, GM.

In reply to Alietra (msg # 70):

It's like putting your face near the crack of an oven with all the heat radiating from the beasts, and you get a whiff of an acidic smell, and you see rat-sized bones lining the floor inside the crevice. One of the beetles hisses at you and snaps its jaws defensively; the pincers look wide enough to sever a neck from its shoulders. to but the crevice does seem just wide enough for a human to pass through; that is these...you count seven...glowing beetles the length of your forearm weren't blocking the way.

Wow, didn't mean top get that close! Eek... I back away quickly, but make a mental note that there might be another passage there. I wonder how much water it would take to douse seven of the little buggers.

Pock will have crossed once everyone else had passed over, so that there was Durek's parrying arm and Pock's drawn bowstring to defend everyone.

The passageway continues east another 20 feet until it comes to an abruptly turns north, revealing a passageway 20' ahead.

Opposite the turn, there is a door to the south here as well, but it's boarded up with crudely drawn black skulls on it.

In reply to DM (msg # 74):

Brodd holds his light aloft and checks out his surroundings, including the boarded door when he gets to it.

Durek will move a few steps into the north passageway...battle-axe at the ready...to keep watch for anything coming down that way whilst others inspect the door.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:33, Mon 15 Feb 2021.

Alietra will pause and listen at the door.

Feel free to roll for me, so I don't know if I succeeded or not.

Manaku presses his ear to the door and listens. If he hears nothing, he'll continue to scout the northern passage ahead of the party.

"Black skulls. A warning perhaps... Can't be anything good." He quietly whispers to the others.

Staring at the back of Manaku's head when he opts to listen as well, Alietra simply shakes her head. He didn't seem to hear anything though...

"I'm pretty sure black skulls are Orcish for 'come on in, dinner's almost ready, and you're it!" Paxton said wryly.

He leaned closer to see if he could see any writing, but otherwise kept up with the others.

"You read Orcish, Paxton?" Pock said, affecting an air of gullibility even as he grinned over it.

"Most Orcs don't write.  They use iconography," Paxton grunted.  "That's a fancy word for 'pictures'.  And black skulls could mean danger/death, or it could be a tribe.  I do speak Orcish, but that's like saying you speak Common - there's lots of regional variations."

Alietra and Manaku hear nothing when they press their ears to the door.

Quickly examining the door, Alietra wants to know if it seems well boarded enough to protect their rear, or if she wants to perhaps spike it shut as well.

The gnome almost frowned a little, realizing that the cleric had not caught onto his joke--he was, perhaps, feeling a bit bad that he had brought on this explanation which Paxton really needn't have given. He kept a straight face, however, nodding as the man explained Orcish iconography to him.

Moving ahead awkwardly, Pock listens at the door as well, slipping in on one side as Alietra checked the other side of the door-frame.

From his position a few paces up the northern corridor, Durek listens to the hushed conversation going on behind him. After a little while, the Dwarf glances over his shoulder at the cluster around the door. "Are we going in?" he asks, voice deep and low, "Or carrying on?"

"It's boarded closed, I think we should leave it." Manaku whispers to the group gathered at the door.

Manaku gives Durek a quick hand signal indicating that he will resume his task as the point guard scouting the tunnel ahead towards the north. The elf moves front and beyond range of the party's light source so that he can see the tunnel ahead in infravision again.

Dwarghar is not particularly curious about the boarded up death room.

Durek gives Manaku a nod. He watches the Moon Elf scout ahead, waiting until he is a couple of dozen feet in front before following.

[Manaku, roll a d6 please]

Rolling as requested: Today: Manaku rolled 2 using 1d6.

In reply to Alietra (msg # 84):

Alietra did not hear anything behind the skull-painted door.

Manaku is surprised by the scowls of two goblins rising up a staircase beyond, their eyes shine balefully in his infravision. YOu also see a warm-blooded mammal the size of a great dane - almost large enough for the goblins to ride - bare its fangs at him.

"SHIZRAT! JAZZIX!", snarls the larger goblin.

The giant weasel charges the Moon Elf, and while he is distracted defending himself the goblins flank him and stab at his sides.


11:52, Today: DM rolled 17,16,4 using d20,d20,d20.  Monsters attacking. – 17,16,411:54,
Today: DM rolled 3,5 using d6,d6.  goblin swords. – 3,5

Having overcome their surprise, the party may now react.

[Manaku is severely wounded, but still standing.]
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:11, Mon 22 Feb 2021.

In reply to DM (msg # 93):

Brodd, trying not to get in the way of the fighters, swings at the weasel with his staff but misses! Then he gets out of the way if he can!

12:05, Today: Brother Brodd rolled 7 using 1d20.  to hit.

Utterly surprised Manaku does his best to defend himself but he is swarmed by the enemies before he can let an arrow fly. Pain strikes his side and shoulder. His free hand quickly draws a roundish glyph in the air in front of him while he simultaneously utters an arcane phrase.

Air begins to shimmer in front of him, slightly blurring vision in a same way as heated air above a hot surface, providing additional magical protection.

[Casting Shield on myself]

Durek sees the goblins and weasel appear out of the darkness and attack the Moon Elf. Fortunately, he is not far behind...and leaps into the fray swinging his battle-axe. He attempts to stand in front of the wounded Elf, hopefully offering some protection...as he swings at the giant weasel.



20:48, Today: Durek Stoneshield rolled 12 using 1d20+2.
22:14, Today: Durek Stoneshield rolled 5 using 1d8+2.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:15, Mon 22 Feb 2021.

Creston waits for a clear shot at the giant weasel.

((13:49, Today: Creston Fairwood rolled 21,1 using d20+3,d6 ((18,1)).))

A gasp of shock comes from Alietra's lips at the sudden onslaught, and she feels a tad bit guilty for feeling relief that she hadn't been up front. Leaning up against the right hand wall, she does her best to clear the passage for any who wish to get past.

Durek's swing barely misses one of the goblins.

Creston's arrow strikes true, piercing the weasel's side. [Per house rules, a critical hit automatically scores maximum damage (6)].

Paxton moved up to support Manaku, bracing up behind his shield and swinging his mace at the nearest goblin!


20:07, Today: Paxton rolled 6 using 1d6+1.  Mace damage.

20:07, Today: Paxton rolled 18 using 1d20+1.  Mace attack.

In reply to Paxton (msg # 100):

*CRUNCH!* A solid swing to the goblin's skull, and down he goes!

Pock, clearly not expecting what had just happened, severely botched firing an arrow at a goblin.

OOC: "01:59, Today: Pock Oneshoe rolled 1,2 using 1d20,1d6 with rolls of 1,2.  attack!!!" Oof.

This is why you don't fire into melee. Durek feels an arrow pierce his shoulder for 2 points of damage!

Dwarghar yells mightily running forward at the goblins and swinging his sword in a relatively intimidating manner.

13:13, Today: Dwarghar Stoneblood rolled 3 using 1d20+1.  Attack vs THACO 19.

A quick dodger, eh - well I’ll have you yet.

Desperately trying to keep the foul creatures from the wounded Moon Elf, Durek grunts in pain as he is struck by the arrow.

"Bastard...!" he bellows, unable to take his eyes off the enemies in front of him.
This message was last edited by the player at 08:13, Wed 24 Feb 2021.

[DM]

Leohart hurls a dagger at the weasel*, and it collapses.


09:07, Today: Leohart rolled 18,1 using d20+2,d4 ((16,1)).

*The gnome will recognize that it's actually a giant ferret, but the DM is not an expert on rodents, so keep rolling with it.

In reply to DM (msg # 106):

Ferret, weasel, same thing practically.

Creston turns and checks the party's rear for flanking Goblins.

Having sized up the enemy if any are still present, Dwarghar will deliver an energetic thrust.

10:11, Today: Dwarghar Stoneblood rolled 5 using 1d8.  Damage . 10:10, Today: Dwarghar Stoneblood rolled 20 using 1d20+1.  Attack

Now I got ya, who’s next?

In reply to Creston Fairwood (msg # 108):

Creston sees no threat from the rear.

Durek takes another swing with his battle-axe...this time at the remaining goblin. But he is a little tense..wondering if there will be another arrow from behind...and he misses.


18:42, Today: Durek Stoneshield rolled 6 using 1d20+2.

Durek's axe goes wide.

During the melee, there is a wailing that echoes from the stairway.

THERE IS NO SLEEP ONLY HUNGER!!!

There's also a sound of quick footfalls.

Just checking if Dwarghar got a hit.

In reply to Dwarghar Stoneblood (msg # 113):

[Oh crap, I'm used to seeing the to hit roll first!]

As Dwargar decapitates the remaining goblin he's turns to face the northern stairway in reaction to the sounds that spill from it.

The haunting, mournful cry sends ice thru Alietra's lower intestines, torn between sadness for one who could not sleep, and fear of being used to attempt to assuage the hunger.

"What could that be?" she asks of Brother Brodd.

Dwarghar feeling confident steps closer shield and sword ready.

With the last goblin down, Durek turns to glare for a moment at anyone behind him with a bow in their hands...before taking a moment to probe his wound.

Satisfied, he moves to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with Dwarghar...bracing himself to face the source of the keening cry.

For the record, Alietra's bow is not in her hands!

In reply to Durek Stoneshield (msg # 117):

"It is a keening sound, sad and mournful, maybe we have undead in here too?" he answers Alietra.

Even the thought of undead sends another shiver down her spine.

"If that be so..." growls Durek. "Then I am glad we have you and Brother Paxton with us!"

"My apologies. Somebody else have to go first now on..." Manaku says not fully able to hide pain in his voice. He can feel warmth of blood, his own, spreading inside his tunic. "I'm not much of a scout, am I?" He forces a chuckle.

In reply to Manaku (msg # 122):

Brodd will cast a CLW on Manaku, again ;-) "You're always getting hurt Manaku, Laeh!" and he holds his holy symbol up in one hand and touches the wound.

Brodd, roll a d6+1 for Cure Light Wounds, please.

And roll another d6 for something else.
This message was last edited by the GM at 23:31, Fri 26 Feb 2021.

"Manaku, are you alright? I'll go first--it'll be easier for me, since I'm so diminutive, harder to hit, easier for me to flee." He gave an apologetic sort of look to Durek, who he had shot. Fortunately, that was not possible if he was scouting ahead.

OOC: Thanks for bearing with me with this delay, I've been in urgent care this week--I'm fine now, but it was a bit scary.

"Damned goblins," Paxton growled.  He still had his mace in hand and shield up and ready.

In reply to Paxton (msg # 126):

08:55, Today: Brother Brodd rolled 4 using 1d6.

08:55, Today: Brother Brodd rolled 4 using 1d6+1.  CLW.

"Thank you, Brother Brodd. I'm happy we have you clerics with us, for sure."

"Well. I'm alive, Pock... That's much better than being dead, eh? I'm not in full strength but will recover. I can't fathom how I missed them goblins getting so close. If you take the point, please be extra careful!"

The party is prepared by the sounds of something scrambling up the stairs.

When Travis reaches the top he sees his companions aiming their weapons at him, but the Scout is still running. He's less afraid of your arrows than THE MISSHAPEN CREATURE IN TATTERED ROBES CHASING HIM.

Startled, Alietra readies her bow, ready to fire should a clear shot present itself.

Upon seeing the creature Dwarghar will throw two daggers at it, if they fail like making a clanking noise on the wall behind the creature.

Then he will let Travis pass and ready his shield to receive the charge

08:29, Today: Dwarghar Stoneblood rolled 9,8,2,2 using D20+1,d20+1,D4+1,D4+1.  Two daggers.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:32, Mon 01 Mar 2021.

"Woah, don't fire" Travis faltered in his step then remembering what was behind him he ran onward "by the will of the Ever Living Sun attack that thing" the scout pointed at the creature as it emerged behind him.

"Brothers?" growls Durek, stepping aside to let Travis through, "Is this one of the undead you talk of?"

Once Travis is past, he moves back to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with Dwarghar....ready to swing at the creature as soon as it comes within range.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:12, Mon 01 Mar 2021.

If she can see any way to make it work, Alietra will fire, but in an effort to miss the others, she fires high. She watches mournfully as her arrow flies out of sight.

09:16, Today: Alietra rolled 11 using 1d20+1 ((10)).

Paxton quickly stepped forward, presenting his holy-symbol-emblazed shield to the onrushing undead.

"Back foul creature, you cannot stand the LIGHT," he commanded.

09:18, Today: Paxton rolled 8 using 2d6.  Turn Undead.

Manaku picks up his bow and aims at the charging creature. Once Travis passes the dwarfs he lets an arrow fly over Durek's head.

Manaku rolled 21,6 using 1d20+3*,1d6 ((18,6)).
*Includes +1 for Short Range.

The abomination's voice cracks in a disgusting voice, made even more horrible in that it bears a vestige of a distinguished and obsolete court dialect. It pauses only a moment at the holy symbol shown in defiance as it shrugs off the other attacks. I fixes its pupilless gaze upon Leohart, even as Manaku's arrow pierces where its heart would have been.

"FORGIVE MY APPEARANCE BUT SATIATION OF FLESH MUST BE FULFILLED"

It's bloody and jagged nails dig into the Prestidigitator's flesh as the hapless victim screams.

14:28, Today: DM rolled 13,12,7,1,2,2 using d20,d20,d20,d3,d3,d3 ((13,12,7,1,2,2)).

[Leohart take 3 points of damage, and needs 2 saves vs. paralysis]

Leohart's eyes are transfixed with terror as the claws lash at him as he falls to the ground. The arrow piercing through the monster's chest makes it pause long enough to crouch and search with shadowed eye sockets for another victim.

14:43, Today: Leohart rolled 11,19 using d20-1,d20-1.  Paralysis saves (13+). – 11,19

14:43, Today: Leohart rolled 4 using 2d4.  paralysis turns. – 4

No!

Dwarghar gets right up to the creature to prevent it from striking anyone else and swings his sword wildly at it.


12:32, Today: Dwarghar Stoneblood rolled 10,1 using D20+1,d8.  Sword

Durek steps forward with Dwarghar...despite the cold fist of fear deep in his gut...and takes a mighty swing at the foul thing.


21:53, Today: Durek Stoneshield rolled 9 using 1d20+2.
This message was last edited by the player at 21:57, Mon 01 Mar 2021.

"No. No!"
As if the thing would listen him. Another arrow flies over the dwarf fighters' heads, aimed high at the target on purpose.

Manaku rolled 13,4 using 1d20+3*,1d6 ((10,4)).
*Includes +1 for Short Range.

Emulating the strategy of the Moon Elf, Alietra aims her arrow higher that the Dwarf's head in the hope of striking the foul beast.

OOC Frak! Sorry whomever I hit, cuz it sure ain't the beastie. 14:57, Today: Alietra rolled 2 using 1d20+1 ((1)).
This message was last edited by the player at 22:58, Mon 01 Mar 2021.

Still presenting his holy symbol-emblazoned shield, Paxton lashed out with his mace!

21:34, Today: Paxton rolled 7 using 1d6+1.  Mace damage.
21:34, Today: Paxton rolled 14 using 1d20+1.  Mace attack.

"What in the world is that?!" Pock let out as he fired his bow, none too successfully.

OOC: "23:36, Today: Pock Oneshoe rolled 8,3 using 1d20,1d6 with rolls of 8,3.  attack!"

In reply to Pock Oneshoe (msg # 144):

"My guess is a ghast! In the name of the Law! Turn!"

07:00, Today: Brother Brodd rolled 7 using 2d6.  turn check
This message was last edited by the player at 12:01, Tue 02 Mar 2021.

"SUCH AN UNFITTING END TO A MAN OF MY LOFTY STA--"

Between the swing of Paxton's mace, which loudly crushes the creature's spine and ribs, and the aim of Manaku's arrow, which pierces the creature's eyesocket, the beast slumps over Leohart's body.

It is only when the dwarves hurriedly roll the fetid corpse off of their companion do the stern warriors collectively gasp in horror. In the Fog of War against That Which Should Not Walk The Earth, poor Leohart has fallen.

[11:32, Today: DM rolled 3 using 1d6 ((3)). ((Alietra's arrow)).]

Quickly brothers- help him

Dwarghar tries to support the wizard and get assistance

In reply to Dwarghar Stoneblood (msg # 147):

Brodd runs to the rescue and checks for life and health!

Durek stoops down to help Dwarghar drag the fallen Leohart from beneath the undead creature.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:58, Tue 02 Mar 2021.

While his companions check for Leohart's vital signs, Manaku nocks another arrow, aims at the direction of the stairs, and keeps an eye for anything else appearing from there following the abomination.

"Does he live?" Paxton asked, standing near, but keeping his eye on the way the undead beast had come from.  "If so, I have healing to offer.  If no, he's beyond my help and in the hands of the gods."

The spellcaster's skin has turned pale as alabaster, and he does not breathe.

In reply to DM (msg # 152):

"He is dead, we must burn his body I think or he may rise as a ghoul himself, hungering for life to devour!"

"I'm pretty sure it was the damned arrow that killed him," Paxton said.  "Maybe a little more fire discipline from our archery contingent. Shooting into a melee is never a wise plan."

"But Brodd is right, we should burn the body to be sure.  Does anyone know the last rites for his faith?"

[In conversations on the trail with Brother Brodd, Leohart did recall being raised in the Unified Faith]

Dark moment....Says Dwarghar, and him just with the new wand too...

Well, I'll take him back to the surface for this, it's not right he was held for ages in stone in that cave and to die in this one. Do you want to say the words now and stay or follow me up?

Dwarghar asks the priests.

Pock, horrified and thinking back to the last incident when he might have killed Durek with his own arrow, grabbed onto the shoulders of Leohart and propped him up. "I don't think I can carry him very well, but I'd like to help..."

The creature defeated Travis stopped running. The scout glanced around, seeing a few familiar faces, they had saved his life but was it a case of jumping into the fire from the pan, some of them might want to see him hanged. He remained quiet not wanting to draw attention to himself. When the opportunity arose he stepped forward and offered his condolences "a sad meeting Leohart" Travis bowed his head and joined Dwargar "I'll help you with his body" he offered eager to return to the surface.

"Aye," growls Durek, face like thunder, "If you want the warriors up front then you need to hold your fire after they engage the enemy...otherwise I'll happily stand behind you!"




The angry Dwarf turns back to the corpse of their fallen comrade, the anger just as quickly turning to sorrow. "Let me help..."
This message was last edited by the player at 08:22, Wed 03 Mar 2021.

Putting her bow swiftly away. Alietra says a vague targetless prayer for Leohart, then searches the body of their foe.

Manaku lowered his head in sign of regret. "Yes, your complaint if fair. I can speak only for myself; fear got better of me. I'm not a warrior. I'm used to shoot small game in the woods, not undead monsters in dark dungeons and I was ambushed by the goblins. I'll try to exercise better self-discipline next time. I'm sorry."

"Bah! Don't mind me," replies Durek. "'Tis the delayed reaction to fear that got the better of my temper..."
This message was last edited by the player at 13:07, Wed 03 Mar 2021.

Dwarghar lifts with any help and begins to go back up.
Bah the damn fool shouldn’t a been there. Durek  an I was in front and it was also an arrow killed the monster. I’ll take a nick every now an then to kill the beasts. But this stupid, brave fellow an those like should stand back an shoot their fire or whatnot. 

In reply to Dwarghar Stoneblood (msg # 163):

Brodd leads the way back out to burn Leohart. They would have to go back in later. "We'll need a funeral byre to burn him to keep him from rising again."
This message was last edited by the player at 13:14, Wed 03 Mar 2021.

The old wizard removes his hat in respect when he sees the party carrying Leohart.

"Oh dear."

He looks towards the setting sun.

"Bitten by a ghoul you say? Yes, this should be done quickly. Over by the cliffside...the wind won't blow back to the camp!"

He raises his wrinkled hand to his mouth calls back towards the wooden palisade of sharpened timbers.

"Sir Einhard! Amalrik! Bring wood for a pyre! Harald! Bring the flask of flaming oil!"

From the Ghoul's body which she is searching for valuables, Alietra calls out, "Do you think he has any personal possessions I should take back to his family?"

In reply to Alietra (msg # 166):

[I've listed his possessions in the OOC chat]

Running was natural for Travis. Equally he held a belief that he could one day escape and be free. One day running from bandits, another from the law, many other things in between including that ghastly ghoul thing. Now he had that choice again should he run from the camp "my past can always run at the same speed" Travis mumbled to himself as he helped carry Leohart's corpse to its pyre. The sight of sun gave him hope and he breathed in the fresh air to clear his lungs. It gave him hope enough to stick around at least for a while. It was good to be back and he had new strength to face whatever came his way.

"Does anyone... want to say a few words?" She is quite solemn, and gnaws at a fingernail.

In reply to Alietra (msg # 166):

He was trapped in stone for decades, he was dead to whatever kin he knew long ago and has not spoken of them. Unless there is something here to show where he came from, it’s impossible.

"That is a somber thought, and speaks to how little I know of my comrades. Perhaps, with death so close to our every footstep, that is the sane way to be."

She watches them build the pyre, clearly fighting a tear.

"Perhaps those of us who have loved ones should put together some final testament. I have no kin, but I would like to offer to seek anyone else's kin out and let them know of a passing, if I should outlive any of you."

"The life we lead is a hard one...full of risk...far from hearth and kin," says Durek, watching as the flames slowly begin to take hold at the base of the pyre, "But friendships are forged between those who travel that road together and share the hardships...forged in the crucible of battle against foul beasts and fell monsters. Such a friend was Leohart."

Durek bows his head as the flames begin to engulf the body of their fallen comrade.
This message was last edited by the player at 09:39, Thu 04 Mar 2021.

"I think I'm going to renounce the bow for a fortnight...I'm clearly not the sort to be wielding it." As he said this, he took a glance at Durek. Pock held his hands in front of his chest in a sort-of-pious manner, hoping this was not offensive to Leohart's strange tradition in some way.

"I didn't really know him and barely exchanged words with him. I hope he felt he was among friends while he was with us."
Manaku bows his head in respect and stands among the party by the pyre.

"May he forever be free from the turmoil of life and rest in peace" Travis offered as a prayer then he sat down to enjoy his own freedom and watch the evening sky. The warmth from the pyre melting away the hardships of his own struggles in life.

Dwarghar sings in the Dwarvish language.

The night is black, the sky is blotted out, we have left the holds of our fathers, And You has returned to the Maker. The light becomes dark, The night and again night, the day with sorrow tomorrow For You has returned to the Maker.  The Old Ones have passed away, their homes are the stones far off, below, Their spirits are laboring free. Where are their spirits laboring?  Only the rocks know, or the passing wind. And You has returned to the Maker.  Are they below, the Old Ones? Are they here? Do they labor warm by his forge, do they see our offering? Tomorrow is naked and empty, for You have gone no longer seated with us at our fire.

He continues speaking but it becomes apparent he isn’t really talking about Leohart anymore. But the moment and the song caught up with him and he is now feeling all of the loss of his family again, not truly assuaged by his revenge on the manticore for to have his girls back would be far more any hate or death could ever come but they are lost forever.

....And you’ve gone, ripped away in your youth when all was before you, I’m sorry I couldn’t hold you back I failed to heed the risk and will struggle on alone. Let me be next and you Be there, in the next when we meet again.

I didn’t have time to make up a funeral song so I borrowed this

http://farlandworld.com/poems.html#burial

Tears stream freely from Alietra's eyes. She understands not one word, but the tone and the pain are clear. She stays in the shadows, and watches the others mourn, and wonders if anyone will cry for her when it is her turn... and whose death would she mourn?

In reply to Alietra (msg # 177):

Brodd says words before the pyre saying goodbye to Leohart, though he didn't know him well. Leo kept to himself so Brodd was more general. When he finished he found Alietra crying and hugged her, trying to give her comfort. He placed his hand on Dwarghar's shoulder as he sang in Dwarvish, to offer him his support and sympathy as well.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:07, Thu 04 Mar 2021.

Harald plays a funeral dirge as the funeral pyre grows and the sun sets. As the sparks fly beyond teach of the cliff and over the crashing rocks bordering the bay far below, the party prays, and remembers, and weeps, they build their resolve grows, as one.

[5XP for all involved]

Paxton stood by and watched the flames in silence.  Brodd's eloquence was enough.

As the prayers and eulogies went on, he made his way quietly to Manaku's side.

"You're still injured.  Let me offer you the healing light," he said quietly.

If Manaku agrees, he'll cast his healing spell.

As the flames die down, Durek heads back to where he left his gear. After a quick check, he shoulders his pack and picks up his battle-axe then starts to trudge back towards the entrance with a look of grim determination.

In reply to Paxton (msg # 180):

"Thank you, Paxton. I needed that." Manaku nods in agreement.

"Tonight we mourn a fallen comrade, tomorrow we'll regroup and try again. We need people like you, Paxton. Holy powers versus unholy. You and Brodd are most capable fighting monsters like the one we encountered today." The elf stares the dying pyre, his crimson eyes reflecting and almost matching the color of the embers. "With you two on my side I'm willing to try again."

***

Once the pyre has died, Manaku addresses the whole party; "We should discuss our next course of action. We'll try again, don't we? When the sun rises, perhaps?"
This message was last edited by the player at 13:11, Fri 05 Mar 2021.

Partially in shadows, and a bit further away from the fire than most, Alietra agrees, they should go back in again.

When the pyre had burnt low and talk went to going back into the cave Travis fidgeted. He looked around then stood up before he spoke "thanks for saving me from that thing. It means I owe you, the debts on my life seem ever growing. Perhaps I can repay some of it with what I know" Travis was relieved to have something to offer in exchange and lighten his burden but he didn't manage to smile "I've been deep in those caves and give you this warning. A powerful creature holds dominion there, Karrak'thrax of the Crimson Wing, a fierce dragon I know this because I have heard it."

The fresh air and freedom had Travis feeling better and he thought about his own ambitions. A return into the cave was a fair choice, he was however ill prepared. He stood weaponless, naught but a simple knife at his belt "is their a smith or bowyer in camp? I have some coin and better equipped I could offer my services as a guide in the tunnels I have spent some time in them" he offered.

"We have the remains of Leohart's belongings. What might be of use to..."

She suggests the following.

3 Daggers
Backpack
Rope (25')
Small Sack
Tinderbox
Wineskin (empty)
Torches (3)
5' Iron Pole

"To be honest, I am not thrilled with my archery skills right now, I could let you have my bow and arrows if you want them. All we need is perhaps some leathers for you."

She gives his frame a once over, and wonders if she could adapt some goblin leather armor to his size.


OOC: As no one has laid claim, I would like to hold the potion of lesser true seeing. I will add it to my sheet, unless someone says otherwise.

"Thank you. I'm Travis, in the past I've met some of others but I'm going to do better this time" he introduced himself to Alietra "I'd be very pleased with the bow and can pay you" Travis reached into his pack which looked to be full of electrum coins "is there a safe place to store valuables?" he asked then looked at the offered belongings of the dead wizard. Travis took the backpack, sack, torches and iron pole. With those few pieces and a bow he looked much more confident.

OOC I've took over the role of Travis I'm not the original player so not totally sure who he's met before but from what I've read he didn't know Alietra before he fled from the others.

She accepts payment, poverty having carved a deep groove in her life she couldn't say otherwise.

"Here you go," she says handing the weapon off to Travis.

No clue what they cost, but whatever you offer is good enough for me.

OOC:
short bow (d6) (5’–50’ / 51’–100’ / 101’–150’)
20 arrows (d6)

Trying hard to set a good impression and be a better person Travis gave a fair price to Alietra, handing her sixty electrum pieces in exchange for the bow and arrows.

The way her eyes sparkle, two things are clear. It is more than she expected, and she isn't going to say no.

"Use it wisely. I might suggest not firing it in to combat, just so you know."

In reply to Travis (msg # 186):

OOC Welcome to the game from another new guy...I took over Durek about a month ago.

Good to see you again lad

I must not have been paying attention to when Travis left or why but welcome back
This message was last edited by the player at 20:02, Fri 05 Mar 2021.

"Aye Dwargahr good to see you too" Travis's nerves settled slightly as he was well received by his old companions.

"The bow is a fine one and I'll do my best to keep everyone safe" he replied to Alietra.

OOC Welcome to you to Durek's new player.

"It's what I'm here for," Paxton nodded gruffly to Manaku.  "Least I can do for our point-man.  Er, elf."

"Damn straight we go again," he added.

When Alietra and Pock say they're giving up archery, his response was a snort and a shake of his head. "Don't be dramatic.  We need your archery.  Just don't go shooting into a melee.  Your skill is fine, but a chaotic brawl isn't where you want to fire an arrow."

As they ran through Leohart's inventory, he said simply, "Whatever nobody else wants, I'll take, if it's of use."

"Well met, Travis.  Welcome to the fold."

Getting over his own melodrama, pock nodded. "Thanks. I...well, I have done some traveling, but less adventuring, see? I'll...keep that in mind. I have a perfectly good sword, too, for when there's a tousle, and I'm not too strong, but I feel brave enough."

In reply to Pock Oneshoe (msg # 194):

"You are braver than most good friend Pock!"

Bah, you helped kill the manticore and drove the traitorous turncoats away with your illusions. That’s your power little one. Not the sword Dwarghar says to Pock. Use distraction and I’ll hit them when they look away.

Alietra tries to give Pock an encouraging smile, but as she isn't quite sure she belongs adventuring yet, it carries little weight in her heart.

An I beg to differ with the good brother. I’ll never begrudge you shooting at something trying to rip out my soul. ‘‘Twas that good genius’s fault for coming to the front the brave bastard and it was arrows that felled that thing. Keep em coming I say.


How are we playing? Is it friendly fire only on a 1 or on every miss? If only on a 1
You’ve got a 1/20 chance of friendly fire and a 5/20 chance or better of hitting the monster.

If every miss then there’s probably a second roll to hit the friend so 15/20x4/20 =  3/20 which is still less likely than hitting the enemy.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:47, Sat 06 Mar 2021.

In reply to Dwarghar Stoneblood (msg # 198):

According to the OSE Advanced Rules when there is a ranged attack into melee the GM just randomly determines who is hit...so equal chances. But that's an optional rule from the Advanced Fantasy rules. The OSE Classic rules make no mention of it.

And though I had Durek be angered by getting hit by friendly fire, I'd just like to make it clear that I'm not anywhere near as grumpy as he is and am not at all bothered.

Ok, ok, I was thinking 1/20 change to hit a friend when shooting over your heads. I might have to re-evaluate my usability as an archer, if it's equal chances to hit a friend... which renders Manaku to a pure magic-user slot (I have no armor, so I'm pretty useless in melee). I can still scout ahead and get myself killed, though ;)

Not sure how much flexibility the rule set has about such fine details as aiming high. I fumbled, so it didn't matter for my shot, but yes, if I knew it was fifty/fifty even with a hit, I wouldn't have even tried.

Good for everyone in the party to be aware of though. I will probably get a new bow eventually, good to know how things work...

Is it the next morning, can we head back in?

"Is anyone in the party skilled enough to try and start up a crude map for us?" Alietra asks the party.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:29, Sat 06 Mar 2021.

In reply to Alietra (msg # 201):

Aiming high was pure aesthetic from my part. I knew rolling 1 (or very low) would hit a friend, and took that risk. So many rule variations between different 'D&D like' games they get mixed into one grey soup in my head...

In the first light of the next morning Manaku meditates and memorizes the spell he cast yesterday.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:40, Sat 06 Mar 2021.

Let’s see what GM says about archery before everyone tosses the bow.

I do still have the other wand if you use the first one up Manaku. I have no opinion on Travis’s money. But I do have a lot of gear for sale

So. Travis - lost all your gear did you? Dwarghar says...I’ve got a good lantern here and several pints of oil....also a heavy wrench if your interested, war hammer and iron spikes too, not that I need to sell mind ... how did you get robbed anyhow?
This message was last edited by the player at 03:12, Sun 07 Mar 2021.

"Lost some of it" Travis shrugged unsure how to explain  "I had to make a quick getaway and left it behind. Mostly important thing was the bow and arrows otherwise I like to keep light on my feet" he answered.

Pock took his comrades' comments to heart, and kept it in his mind to distract enemies--he in fact began to think of ways to do so.

The next morning he had regained some of his color and was breakfasting with Brodd.

OOC: Yeah, all the variations on D&D and OSR rulesets can get hard to keep track of sometimes.

Carrying a lantern, Jarvak enters the encampment from the direction of town.

"Ah, there you are, Travis. Worked your way up the dungeon, did you? Quite resourceful. I saw a funeral pyre and worried it was you. I wouldn't have had the chance to tell you the good news..."

In reply to Jarvak Amendola (msg # 206):

"Want some ham Pock? Alietra?" He cuts slabs from his rations. Brodd keeps his eye on Jarvak and Travis. Justice must be served.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:11, Tue 09 Mar 2021.

Alietra nods yes, and extends her plate for a slice of ham, though her focus is on the bounty hunter, and if he were here to cause trouble.

Actually I’m pretty sure that was Travis on the pyre. This here is Tagus, but all too-talks look alike sometimes.

Dwarghar says opening up an opportunity for alternative facts.

It was a good feeling to be free and in good company. Then Travis saw Jarvak, with a wry smile Travis greeted him.

"Good news?" he asked "I'm long overdue some of that" he waited for an explanation hoping it was good news and not some trick.

Alietra chocked a little on her ham when Dwargar attempted his ploy. It was clever, but unexpected, to say the least. If the Bounty Hunter was after their friend still, she hoped it worked.

Manaku sits silently and chews his rations. It seems something is about to transpire. The bounty hunter's sudden arrival created tension. He can feel it and it makes him slightly anxious. It doesn't concern him, however, so it's best to sit quietly and see what happens.

Paxton took a deep pull from his wineskin, smacked his lips and sighed.  He waited to see what was unfolding next.

Pock was enjoying his ham, of course. He had given his opinion on the matter previously, but it was up to Jarvak and Travis in this moment. He was pretty sure that Travis would win in a fight, so he felt rather assured about the whole business.

"I've spoken with agents of the King. In light of the good you've already done in slaying the manticore, you've proven that you're not just another bandit to be hauled in and beheaded. You have a chance to pay off your own bounty."

He hands Travis a rolled up parchment.

"You have until the next full moon to submit one hundred thousand gold pieces or equivalent to me and the garrison that will accompany me when I return. You're more than welcome to visit the town and pay in installments. Good Luck."

In reply to Jarvak Amendola (msg # 215):

"One hundred thousand gold! Where in the name of the gods will he get that in thirty days?"

What was the price of freedom? It seemed the question was not rhetorical, at least not in this instance. Travis wondered if it was a fair price but fairness was something foreign to Travis. He had not wanted or planned to be bandit, it was something which had been forced to do.

The answer to Travis's dilemma was to accept the offer and worry about the details later "aye I don't have a choice anyway" he replied to Jarvak then turned to Brodd "I've those electrum coins so can pay a quarter of it. Let us go find more before I lose my head" Travis picked up his new bow and was ready to go back into the cave.

Manaku snorts. "That makes - let me see - close to three thousand five hundred gold pieces per day. Easy peasy. That's still a death sentence, just a delayed one..."

Jarvak accepts the sack of electrum after the pieces are counted, and pulls a small abacus from his cloak.

"Congratulations! You are now only ninety-nine thousand, seven hundred and thirty gold pieces in debt."

Bah, humans and robbery even the Kings are thieves- I wouldn’t bother if I were you.

If killing the smug Bounty Hunter would help, Alietra would be thrilled to join in. What a bastard! As it was, the King would just send more, nothing to be done right now.

Should a chance to flee the country come up, however, she would be glad to go.

Pock welled, quite privately, with rage at this human King and his dealings. He wanted to give this bounty hunter a word or two--or worse--but he restrained himself.

He thought about taking over his recent spoils, but he soon thought the better of it. What would so little gold from Pock do for Travis?

Ninety-nine thousand gold pieces...Pock's blood boiled as he took up his things again.

What was the life expectancy of an adventurer anyway? Didn't they put their life on the line for gold every day. Yes it was unfair but that was something Travis understood "if my life is expected to be so short I'm not going to waste any of it arguing. Lets go find some find some adventure" at least he'd enjoy what was left of it.

In reply to Travis (msg # 223):

Brodd smiled and followed, putting a hand around Pock's shoulder and Alietra's waist to see if they were coming.

Alietra joins the others.

Dwarghar goes down. Happy to lead unless someone else wants to.

Paxton frowned at the interchange, obviously disapproving of something, but offered no commentary.  When people rose to move on, he did the same.

"I'm not getting any younger," he commented acerbically.

Pock moved on behind his friends, but not before casting a particularly mean look toward the bounty hunter.

As the others approach the entrance, Durek rises up from the shadows just inside where he had been waiting. Grabbing his pack and battle-axe, he begins to make his way down with the the rest.

Taking his gear Manaku joins the others. "I'll go ahead and scout again. If you see me come back running, you know something is up. If you hear me scream, you know it's bad." He takes the lead keeping little distance but still having the main party in sight.

As usual, Creston stays where he can cover the rear.

Durek follows Manaku, battle-axe at the ready...making sure not to let the Moon Elf get too far ahead.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:37, Fri 12 Mar 2021.

Glad to be travelling with the safety of numbers Travis was also keen to scout ahead. However he recognised the unique talents of the elf Manaku so held back with the others, his bow at the ready.

[DM]

"May the gods lend you their strength!"

The barbarian wishes you luck as he walks past, carrying a huge log on his shoulders to the woodcutting area. Each time you return you see more sharpened sticks arranged as protective fences around your encampment.

Once away from the bounty hunter, Alietra turns to Brother Brood.

"Could the bounty hunter be lying? It would be an awesome blackmail scheme, convince someone he owes the crown money."
This message was last edited by the player at 20:15, Fri 12 Mar 2021.

In reply to Alietra (msg # 235):

"Then slay them and collect the bounty? Not likely, but possible."

"No silly, just keep the coin Travis gives him, are we sure there is even a real bounty?"

In reply to Alietra (msg # 237):

"We saw the wanted papers."

"I hope it doesn't make you think less of me, but I know people who could make those for a few coins."

In reply to Alietra (msg # 239):

With a slightly shocked look, Brodd replied, :I never thought of that, but why? To blackmail for 100,000 gp? He knows we'll give up our share for Travis."

"Not a lot of things most people wouldn't do for a hundred thousand gold pieces Brood. You could build quite the impressive Cathedral with that money, and live well while you were doing it."

In reply to Alietra (msg # 241):

"Yes I could. The gods would grant me much power too"

"I doubt the gods would be pleased if you used such a method to get that money though."

In reply to Alietra (msg # 243):

"No, they would strip me of my power immediately. They would be unforgiving to a great degree too, though it is possible to atone."

"I just wonder if it would be worth checking up on that guy after we finish down here, make sure he is legit, and that he is giving the money to the crown. What do you think Travis?"

"Yes, I think we should all see the proof of the King's receipt of the fee. Travis?"

After many worries and tribulations it was good to hear talk of others that cared about him "perhaps a visit to town to witness the King's judgement and petition for leniency would be worthwhile" he replied to their comments.

Manaku follows the same path the party went last time. There should be a staircase there where the enemies and Travis emerged. He sneaks twice as cautiously now, relying on his infra-vision and has the Wand of Magic Missiles at the ready. Every now and then he looks back. The armed dwarf figures following there are reassuring.

Pock nearly kept pace with Manaku, his own bow at the ready, prepared to position himself by Manaku and fire at the first sight of trouble with his own infra-vision.

Dwarghar bumps Durek at the sight of the gnome in front. Like a mini elf with the elf.

Paxton minds his place, shield and mace.

This message was deleted by the player at 06:22, Sun 14 Mar 2021.

In reply to Dwarghar Stoneblood (msg # 250):

Durek flashes Dwarghar a grin, appreciating both the jest and the slight easing of tension.

The party winds down the crumbling staircase and generally eastwards towards the glow of the fire beetles.

Durek again stops to make sure no fire beetles emerge from the crack, motioning the others on...before resuming his place next to Dwarghar.

This time, when the dwarf peeks in the crack, the heat feels strong enough to singe his beard, The beetles hiss and clack their mandibles spread their wings.

[Roll for Initiative]

In reply to DM (msg # 256):

12:15, Today: Brother Brodd rolled 4 using 1d6.  initiative.

In reply to DM (msg # 256):

As soon as Durek realises that...this time...the beetles are not just going to let them pass, he attempts to 'parry' any attacks from emerging beetles. As he's standing directly in front of the crack, he hopes to give his comrades a moment to ready themselves.

(Parry: Durek forfeits his attack this round in order to add his +2 Str bonus to his AC making it AC1 for this round.)

(16:52, Today: Durek Stoneshield rolled 4 using 1d6.)
This message was last edited by the player at 17:19, Mon 15 Mar 2021.

In Dwarven society, the highest honors are held for those heroes who hold the line, bottlenecking the enemy in the tightest of tunnels.

So then does Durek follow in the steps of his ancestors. Lacking a shield, he holds his axe sideways, with one gauntlet on the base of the handle and the other one close to the blade. He bunts the glowing insects (roughly the size of his axe) back as they try to bite and burn him. And for this round at least, he is succeeding, and none of insects can escape their narrow lair!

13:34, Today: DM rolled 1,6,5,9 using d20,d20,d20,d20 ((1,6,5,9)).

11:37, Today: Dwarghar Stoneblood rolled 4 using 1d20+2.  Sword.
11:36, Today: Dwarghar Stoneblood rolled 2 using 1d6.  Initiative

Dwarghar acts quickly in stabbing at the creatures but misses he stays to Durek’s left ready to thrust his sword again.

12:41, Today: Paxton rolled 6 using 1d6.  Inish.

Seeing the dwarf bravely hold the line against the angry fire beetles, he brought up his mace, but couldn't attack with the dwarf in the way (OOC: I'm assuming).

"Do we go past or fall back?!" he shouted.

If any of the beetles make it past Durek, Paxton will attack them.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:43, Mon 15 Mar 2021.

"Move past!" grunts Durek. "They may lose interest once we are far enough from their lair...if not, then everyone will at least be on the other side!"

(Durek will continue to try and block them in, 'parrying' any attacks (for the increased AC)...until the party has passed by. Then he will back away.)
This message was last edited by the player at 20:28, Mon 15 Mar 2021.

Paxton will move to the far side of the hole, and gesture for the others to follow.  But he plants his back against the wall and stands by to help Durek, indicating that the others should rush past as they hold the line.

Unhappy with the thought of leaving angry beetles behind them, still Alietra prepares to step passed when it is her turn.

14:12, Today: Alietra rolled 1 using 1d6 ((1)).

As soon as it's evident the beetles aren't easily passed, Manaku stops and leans against the passage wall, keeping an eye for the dark passage ahead, the wand at the ready. "Dammit. We aren't fighting the beetles, are we?"

[If the beetles break into the passage, he'll shoot a magic missile to one of them.]

Manaku rolled 7 using 1d6+2 ((5)), initiative
[Manaku rolled 4 using 1d6+1 ((3)). magic missle.]
This message was last edited by the player at 22:37, Mon 15 Mar 2021.

The beetles looked dangerous but Durek looked like he had it under control so Travis did as he was bid and went passed them.

In reply to Travis (msg # 266):

Brodd moved past with Pock and Alietra.

The party is able to rush past the glowing crevice as DUrek keeps the fire beetles at bay. Manaku stands by with his wand at the ready, but none of the beetles have escaped yet.

Durek now has a choice, to keep blocking or to break and follow the rest of the party along with the moon elf.

"Go!" Paxton said to the brave dwarf, his shield at the ready.  "I'll be right behind you!"

When Durek turned to run, Paxton would interpose, then back away to follow the others deeper into the complex. He would parry and defend while doing so.

Durek nods and slowly begins to back away, ready to parry with his battle-axe beside the Cleric should he need to.

Dwarghar will help defend Durek with his shield as they step away.

"Quick, Manaku, we should make sure we're not rushing into anything worse!" Pock pressed to the front of the group again, peering forward with eyes well accustomed to the subterranean environment.

OOC: "02:13, Today: Pock Oneshoe rolled 5 using 1d6.  initiative."

The flickering beetles escape their narrow lair, orbiting it menacingly in their deep drone, but not pursuing the dwarf or the other party members. Best not to return that way soon.

[5 XP to Durek for his quick thinking and brave maneuvering, single handedly avoiding what could have been a TPK. 1XP to everyone else for support and teamwork.]

In reply to Pock Oneshoe (msg # 272):

"Yes...yes, we should do that..." The elf looks back at the party's direction. It seems the threat has been avoided, if momentarily, and everybody got past the beetles.

"You're one brave gnome coming here in the very front. Just be ready to run fast, or hide well, ok?" The elf tilts his head and studies the gnome beside him, smiling. "Ok, let's go...quietly."

They advance further side by side.

The gnome reaches the barred door with the skull depictions first. Opposite that is the passageway where the bodies of goblins, weasel, and formerly undead noble are still lying in eternal death.

"Well, I hope we don't need to retreat, because we can't go back that way anytime soon," Paxton said, clapping Durek on the shoulder as a silent approval of the dwarf's bravery.

"Aye...they don't look too happy," says the Dwarf, keeping half an eye on the passage behind them as they catch up to the rest of the party.

"Perhaps next time we should bring them some charcoal or something, whatever they eat. Might make them happy."

As there seems to be more time, Alietra will listen at the door again, then search the goblins.

Good thinking Dwarghar nods to Durek, he continues forward shield and sword ready.

"I'm more adventurous than brave, but...thanks, Manaku." Pock, feeling himself the less experienced, let Manaku take the lead in scouting ahead.

"Well done" Travis congratulated his companions. He looked at the door "skulls. Doesn't bode well. There was plenty of skulls in the cave where I found that ghoul" he explained.
This message was last edited by the player at 10:40, Thu 18 Mar 2021.

In reply to Travis (msg # 281):

Brodd looked all around, he had to concentrate.

Alietra removes the dead goblins' filthy pouches with some quick tugs, finding a meager 5 electrum coins on each of them; the same sort of currency the scout retrieved from the dragon's lair.

In reply to DM (msg # 283):

"Electrum! Good, they were wealthy! Five each at that! In about 40 years we'll have Travis off the hook at this pace! I hope we find the hoard!"
This message was last edited by the player at 13:20, Thu 18 Mar 2021.

"Have the goblins been stealing the hoard from the dragons? If everyone's taking a bit they'll be none left soon" Travis joked back at Brother Brodd.

In reply to Travis (msg # 285):

"I'm sure she is paying them to work for her, though I could be wrong, why spend treasure on goblin guards when they can be had for free."

While Alietra loots the corpses, Durek moves several paces further on to keep an eye on the unexplored stairway from which the undead thing came.

Manaku barely glances at the undead corpse and the slain goblins. The elf's eyes are fixed beyond them as he carefully navigates past them.

"There should be stairs here..." He whispers to Pock.

Shrugging off the snide comment, Alietra pockets the coin to be added to the party-pot later. She had slept enough nights out in the cold to not turn her nose up at a few copper, much less a handful of electrum.

"I'm sure we can divvy up the coins later," Paxton said.  "But what do we do now?"

"As a wise man once said, 'follow the elf'" Alietra said, pointing towards Manaku.

Dwarghar follows the elf

"Stairs?" Pock started prodding at the floor and wall where the elf indicated, hoping to discover something there.

In reply to Manaku (msg # 288):

Past the corpses, there is a stairway going down and in a roughly northerly direction. These were the stairs that Travis ascended, but as he was running for dear life at the time he's a bit blurry on the details.

Travis shook his head "the stairs are around here somewhere, there's treasure down there but also the lair of Karrak'thrax of the Crimson Wing. We best tread carefully."

"What the hell is a 'Karrak'thrax of the Crimson Wing'?  Sounds delightful," Paxton snorted sardonically. He regarded the stairs warily.

"Who's going first?" he asked.

"I will..." shrugs Durek. "Though forewarned is forearmed, I say. Perhaps Travis can tell us whatever he knows of this Karrak'thrax and the dangers that lay down those stairs..."
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 16:41, Fri 19 Mar 2021.

In reply to Durek Stoneshield (msg # 297):

He said it was a red dragon!"

"I remember a hall of corpses that where I fled from the creature you all saw. Beyond that was a hall of bones. It was a gruesome place. Past that is a hall full of copper coins. Hidden beneath the coins are amphorae full of electrum coins. Past that well past that is the dragon Karrak'thrax, I never saw the dragon I do not know what hoard she covets. I did speak with her and know her power" Travis paused, where they were heading was dangerous ground "beneath her is the swirling lake".

"So this hall of corpses is first...down these stairs?" asks Durek, grim-faced, "And beyond that a hall of bones? Well...I am glad to be travelling in the company of two brothers of the faith."

Durek begins to move purposefully towards the stairs.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:09, Fri 19 Mar 2021.

"What a charming place this is. A pile of coins sounds attractive, though." Manaku mutters under his breath upon hearing Travis' words. He gestures at Pock that they should move forward and starts to descent the stairs, keeping an eye for loose stones beneath his feet or other signs of danger.

Pock made sure to maneuver down the steps carefully--those of his height sometimes found it difficult to climb up and down stairs, which could be quite steep in Pock's experience.

In reply to Pock Oneshoe (msg # 302):

Brodd held the torch up for himself and Alietra and anyone else that needed it.

"Thank you Brother, for showing the way," Alietra, stepping carefully over the dead, then following the others,,,

In reply to Alietra (msg # 304):

Brodd smiled.

Cresten descends last, keeping to the shadows and listening for the sounds of any Goblins following.

...and so the party descends down the rougly hewn cavern stairs into the catacombs.

[distance sounds of a floppy disk whirring]

...the stairs give way to the slippery and uneven cavern floor, a fine layer of filth collected beneath you provides traction. The stench of death is thick in the dank air, and as the Scout described, scattered about are piles of bodies in various states decomposition and dismemberment.

Wrinkling her nose in distaste, Alietra pulls a cloth out from her pocket and holds it over her nose in the hopes of reducing the scent. She stands a tad bit closer to Brother Brodd as she glances about at the dead.

"I hope these stay dead..." she says to him in a whispered voice.

In reply to Alietra (msg # 308):

"So do I. I'm not the best at turning undead."

Durek keeps close to the scouts, looking around warily...half expecting to hear the sound of bony feet clacking on stone or a banshee-like wail.

"They don't look like they've been buried. They've just been... tossed into piles." Manaku whispers to Pock in disgust, eyes watering from the stench. The elf carefully walks ahead trying to find a passage forward past the corpses, and hopefully away from this cave. "Let's see if we can get past them."

"Travis? Do you remember the way?" He had, after all, been here before...

In reply to Brother Brodd (msg # 309):

Smells like they already turned.

Pock returned a comment back to Manaku as they carefully moved further into the room: "It's an absolute travesty, Manaku, that's what this is..."

In reply to Dwarghar Stoneblood (msg # 313):

Durek grimaces as he nods in agreement, continuing to warily look about him as he follows the scouts.

"Um" Travis looked around and pondered Alietra's question "I'm not sure. When I was in this chamber last I fled in mortal terror from the ghastly undead, my recollection is uncertain" the scout pointed to the opposite side of the cave "I entered the cave somewhere over there" he answered vaguely.

As you speak quietly among yourselves, the piles of corpses tremble. Human remains tumble to the filthy cavern floor as bodies still barely held together by dried skin and brittle ligaments stand more or less upright, and reach out with willowy fingers stretched to bony claws.

[Roll for party Surprise]

In reply to DM (msg # 317):

11:36, Today: Brother Brodd rolled 2 using 1d6.  surprise.
This message was last edited by the player at 15:37, Tue 23 Mar 2021.

In reply to Brother Brodd (msg # 318):
https://oldschoolessentials.ne...Turning_the_Undead_2

In reply to DM (msg # 319):

Thanks!

11:46, Today: Brother Brodd rolled 1 using 1d6.  initiative.

11:47, Today: Brother Brodd rolled 5 using 2d6.  turn check. Failed. Up to Paxton.
This message was last edited by the player at 15:48, Tue 23 Mar 2021.

In reply to Brother Brodd (msg # 320):

[You failed the Surprise check, neither would you have had the chance to turn yet in any event.]

In reply to DM (msg # 321):
This message was last edited by the player at 15:59, Tue 23 Mar 2021.

The party is gripped in horror in those few vital seconds that the undead descend on the party.

11:54, Today: DM rolled 13,2,19,19,6 using d20,d20,d20,d20,d20 ((13,2,19,19,6)).

Zombie ThaC0 is 18.

12:01, Today: DM rolled 1,7 using d8,d8 ((1,7)).


Durek - 13 (miss)

Brodd - 2 (miss)

Manaku - 19 (hit, 1 point)

Travis - 19 (hit, 7 points)

Parton - 6 (miss)

Second round, party may respond first.

Do I have time to scream? Because I do...

Can I get a sense of the layout, is everyone fighting?

At some level Manaku had expected this. Still, as the dead scrambled, he freezes and just stands there in disbelief. The elf can feel claws piercing his skin...

Adrenaline flush.

"Run, Pock! Get behind the fighters and priests!"

Manaku retreats and shoots a Magic Missile at the closest undead's face.

[Today: Manaku rolled 5 using 1d6+1 ((4)).]

The rising up of the foul creature takes the doughty Dwarf by surprise...for a moment he just stands there staring at it in horror. But then his instincts take over, quickly closing with the thing to try and protect the more vulnerable in the party.

"C'mon, you stinking pile of filth," he growls, swinging at the undead horror.


16:48, Today: Durek Stoneshield rolled 6 using 1d20+2.  Melee Attack.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:58, Tue 23 Mar 2021.

At the sight of Brother Brodd being hurt, Alietra draws her sword and swings angrily, and connect, though only a (dammit!) glancing blow.


09:00, Today: Alietra rolled 1 using 1d8.  damage, sword .

08:59, Today: Alietra rolled 17 using 1d20.  swing at the one that hit Brother Brodd .

The now dead Travis fell to the floor with a groan and whimper. Hopefully he would stay dead and no rise as another of the undead...

In reply to Travis (msg # 329):

You're at 0 Travis, aren't you?



Brodd was missed.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:05, Tue 23 Mar 2021.

Meh, Alietra thought you were hit, that was enough.

In reply to Alietra (msg # 331):

;-) Okay. Brodd feels better then!

Dwarghar swings at the thing that surprises him with a manly grunt.

14:02, Today: Dwarghar Stoneblood rolled 12,3 using D20+2,d8+1.  Sword

Would it be possible to do some kind of bull rush with the shield and try to drive several zombies off party members?

"BACK!!" Paxton cried, brandishing the holy symbol emblazoned on his shield.

19:05, Today: Paxton rolled 5 using 2d6.  Turn Undead.