The four companions headed across the courtyard towards the castle entrance, the two young gate guards nodding to them as they went on their way.

" So to the river first is it? And then follow it upstream?", Barlow queried as they approached the gates.

Lann takes out the map, shows his companions and then proceeds along the path indicated with the team.

OOC:Do we need a marching order?
This message was last edited by the GM at 05:47, Mon 11 Nov 2019.

Mammon nodded as the map confirmed what she'd already been told, she craned her head over the edge of the arching bridge as they left the castle behind.

OOC: For walking down the road? Maybe? Mammon will be in the middle.

OOC: Yes for walking down the road. hahaha I eman walking can be dangerous. Who has the best AF? Drummond?

" I'll take the rear. You younger folk have better eyes, besides the view back here behind Mammon isn't too bad.", Drummond chuckled.

OOC: Maille and Plate here, so I guess I'm the highest AF.

" Don't worry old man. Lann and I will keep an eye out for....I dunno, bandits? badgers?"

OOC: I will take the vanguard then. My AF ain't too poor too! I guess Barlow takes the second spot and mammon the third?
This message was last edited by the GM at 09:50, Mon 11 Nov 2019.

" Sure, badgers. Thats the one."

Mammon giggled, " Well, at least you gentlemen will keep me and Otto well entertained on this trip."

Lann leads the way using the map and stops occasionally to check his bearings. He will make small talk with his new friends to find out about their favourite food.

OOC:  Barlow is a knave or assassin?
This message was last edited by the GM at 11:13, Mon 11 Nov 2019.

After several hours of travel amongst the towering peaks of the Pagan Mountains, the group emerged into the Grey Hills.

Looking east Barlow and Lann could see a faint line where the River Ereworn snaked down from the Pagans, it looked to be some five or so miles away.

Lann suggests going towards the river. Just before sunset, he casts Sigil of Destiny and uses it to guard against a failed perception roll vs ambush or surprise.

Barlow followed Lanns line of sight over the hills, " Yup, the sanctum is supposed to be at the source so makes sense to follow it."

OOC: Knave.

In reply to Barlow Greencap (msg # 14):

" Lead the way, gents."

Lann continues to walk along the path, leading his new companions. He hopes this small force is enough to deal with danger.

OOC: are there random encounters in this game GM?
This message was last edited by the GM at 01:36, Tue 12 Nov 2019.

OOC: Well...I roll for them...doesn't mean they happen.

The four companions are soon reduced to following goat trails across the hills as the Kings Road fades behind them, the sun is dropping lower in the sky and it soon seems time to make camp for the night and have something to eat...

Mammon calls out to the two at the front, " I don't suppose you can see any lovely appointed cottages for us to stay the night in?"

" I'll keep an eye out.", Barlow called back.

Barlows keen eyes spot a rocky overhang towrds the base of the mountains they are skirting and points it out to the others.

" Aye, that'll do."

" I'll cook and take first watch.  Mammon, can you get a fire going? Brannon find some wood."

Lann thanks Drummond for getting the food for the companions. He will stand sentry on the outcrop and try to spot for danger.
As he smells the aroma of the warrior's cooking, Lann is reminded that he is hungry.

Drummond combined some salted beef and dried mushrooms and barley into a fairly filling pottage and shared it out to the others.

" You want second watch, Lann?"

" Barlow can take third."

"sure, third is good. Thank you for the good dinner," Lann says.

Drummond looked confused for a moment, " Uh...right. So Barlow second then.

" Right with you, Barlow?"

In reply to Drummond Gilrow (msg # 26):

" Works for me."

As Drummond kept watch in the evening after the others had retired he had a peaceful watch, though he thought he glimpsed some human figures back towards the Kings Road it was difficult to make much out and they were soon gone.

He woke Barlow and asked him to take over.

Barlow saw and heard nothing on his watch except a small rockslide far up the slope.

At the end of his watch he woke Lann.

Lann had a peaceful watch, something large flapped slowly overhead before sunrise..possible a large owl...but it was quite high and he couldn't make it out.

The sun rose in a bright blue sky.



OOC:

11:15, Today: GM rolled 78 using 1d100.

11:15, Today: GM rolled 91 using 1d100.

11:15, Today: GM rolled 41 using 1d100.
This message was last edited by the GM at 00:46, Wed 13 Nov 2019.

When his watch is over, he will wake the rest if it is morning.

OOC: Can I make a perception roll to check that object?

" Well, I slept very well indeed.  Thankyou for standing guard all night, lads."

She reached into her pouch and shared out a peach to each of the men, scratching Otto under the jowls as he slunk back from his night-time wanderings with blood-stained jaws.

OOC: What object?

Barlow grabbed a peach and devoured it, " Alright, half a day more and we should be at the river then we turn towards the source."

In reply to GM (msg # 31):

OOC: the large birdie that flew overhead.
This message was last edited by the GM at 08:31, Wed 13 Nov 2019.

OOC: Oh! Ok.


19:32, Today: GM, on behalf of Toirneach Lann, rolled 13 using 2d10.


It was about 1m long with a wingspan close to 2m, with feathered looking wings and grey in colour...thats about all he could make out.

Lann draws his bow and arrows and tries to shoot the birdie.

OOC: Ok....that was 4 hours ago and it was described as very high...the arrow missed. Join the rest in the morning.

" Well, lets get a move on then.  The rest of you ready?"

" Coming along.", Mammon grinned as she bundled up her gear.

"All slept well i hope? Well let us depart then." Lann says.

When everyone is ready he moves along with his pack and weapons.
This message was last edited by the GM at 11:53, Wed 13 Nov 2019.

The mornings journey through the thinning woodlands of the Grey Hills, with the sight of the ancient Gallows Wood far to the south and the blue sky overhead made everything seem lighter and more pleasant.

After four hours the trail became steeper and held hard against the foot of the mountains, the river valley was steep here and if they were to follow it north they needs be careful as they traversed the trail the drop to their right rapidly becoming steeper and steeper and they were force to travel single file; cliff on their left, drop on their right.

As noon approached Lann saw a figure on the trail about 100m ahead, it appeared to be a man dressed in heavy maille and plate, he leant on a spear facing in their direction though he gave no sign that he had seen them yet.

Lann motions his friends to cover him as he approaches the man to hail him.

"Hail sir, how are things going for you?" Lann asks respectfully.
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:43, Thu 14 Nov 2019.

The figure did not move as Lann approached nearer, though Lanns nostrils did begin to detect a certain ripe stench of carrion in the air.....

" Alright then....you go to talk to the scary man then."

Lann casts enhancement and draws his weapon and shield ready to fight.

The figure leans on its spear watching but does not move.

" Yes...I saw that too, Otto."

" Do you think its in his blood?"

She traced a strange pattern in the air and spat a harsh sounding word into the air..

OOC:

Casts Wrath on Lann.

Lann gains +3 Attack, + 1 Armour Bypass Rolls, +1 damage and -5 Defence.

Drummond called forward to Lann, " Trails to narrow for us to get to him, lad and I'm not going to risk throwing daggers into a melee."

"Rude man! Might be zombie, Attack.", Lann grunts.

Lann advances and prepare to attacks the man.
This message was last edited by the GM at 07:06, Thu 14 Nov 2019.

In reply to Toirneach Lann (msg # 48):

" Didnae I just say we cannae attack? Do you think he wants me throwing blades past his ears?", Drummond called to Barlow.

" Aye, ye did...but he seems a bit focused."

" Should I throw my spear at the Sun-bee?  Why is it called a Sun-bee..it looks like a fellow in armour."

" He is a bit whiffy though?"

" I think its Zumdee, Barlow."

" Perhaps a Gliss word for draugr or gjenganger...a living dead man.", Mammon called out.

" Anything more I do from back here is probably going to kill both Lann and Barlow....", she finished.

His mind filling with rage, Lann brought his blade up and swung it at the figure who batted his blade aside silently. Its blade came across towards his head far faster than he had expected...if not for the enchanted blade he carried he was certain it would have hit him.

OOC:

18:14, Today: GM, on behalf of Toirneach Lann, rolled 13 using 1d20.  ATT 24 - DEF 12. Miss.

18:18, Today: GM, for the NPC Dark Figure, rolled 5 using 1d20.  ATT 16 - DEF 12. Miss.

Lann continues to attack the figure.

Fueled by a rage he doesn't entirely understand, Lann lashes out at the figure again, but it ducks under his wild swing and brings its blade down hard scraping across Lanns shield to smash into his shoulder. ( -5 hp)


OOC:

19:52, Today: GM, on behalf of Toirneach Lann, rolled 16 using 1d20.  ATT 24 - DEF 12.

19:57, Today: GM, for the NPC Strange Figure, rolled 2 using 1d20.  ATT 16 - DEF 12.

20:00, Today: GM, on behalf of Toirneach Lann, rolled 2 using 1d6.  Shield.

19:59, Today: GM, for the NPC Strange Figure, rolled 9 using 1d10+1.  ABR.

Lann continues attacking and asks his friends to join in the melee.

In reply to Toirneach Lann (msg # 55):

" And how exactly would you like us to do that?", Drummond yelled back, annoyed at not being able to get into the action.

“Let me attack and do a fighting withdrawal,” Lann grunts, attacking as he slowly retreats.
This message was last edited by the GM at 01:54, Fri 15 Nov 2019.

" If you insist...but its a bloody long way back.", Drummond yelled stating to retreat.

Lann turned back towards the figure and lashed out again the rage driving him on.

His blade sliced across the armoured forms throat and its head lolled forward and then tumbled to the ground, the remainder of its body clattering down as well.


OOC:

12:51, Today: GM, on behalf of Toirneach Lann, rolled 11 using 1d8+3.  ABR. -6 hp.
12:50, Today: GM, on behalf of Toirneach Lann, rolled 11 using 1d20.  ATT 24 - DEF 12.

" Ah! Victory is ours....well, mostly yours...."

“Dangerous foe,” ,Lann says as he searches the undead.
This message was last edited by the GM at 05:39, Fri 15 Nov 2019.

Lann discovers little in the armour other than a rancid corpse, though he does note it has three iron nails driven into its forehead.  The armour is slick with rancid juices and other substances and the great blade is in a terrible state of repair.

Barlow shuffled forward, " So he's quite dead? I mean proper dead."

" Can we just boot it off the edge?"

Lann replies,"Ys, I think it is dead but I dont know about the nails in the forehead. Let me remove them."

"Good idea?"he asks.

In reply to Toirneach Lann (msg # 64):

" Not much experience with necromancy....maybe?"

Lann uses his blade to remove the nails off the forehead before kicking the corpse off the ledge.

They appear to be plain iron nails, though a small symbol has been scratched onto the head of the nail; neither Lann or Mammon recognise the symbols

Lann keeps a nail in a small piece of cloth for Brannon or cene to identify in future, cancels enhancement, keeps the rusty sword and continues walking
This message was last edited by the player at 22:01, Fri 15 Nov 2019.

" Right....so dead people.  Well, thats the first one I've ever seen moving about....let me guess, it only gets weirder from here?"

" Oh. I very much hope so, Master Drummond.", Mammon smiled.

" Lead on, Brave Leader!", she called out to Lann as she followed.

"I hope we don't meet so many of the duke's weird creations. This automation could be one of his experiments my friends. By the way lady, what was the spell you cast? Seems to make me fearless in battle and think little of defending myself.", Lann chuckles.

Ooc: that's something from player's guide?
This message was last edited by the GM at 22:54, Fri 15 Nov 2019.

" Oh, that? A mere trifle, a prayer to awaken righteous anger and strength. Nothing more...I'm glad it buoyed your spirits.....do you have means of tending your wounds? I have little talent at that I'm afraid."
This message was last updated by the player at 23:08, Fri 15 Nov 2019.

OOC: Maybe.... ;)

The group continued along the narrow trail which eventually began to descend towards the steep-sided river valley.

Barlows keen eyes spotted a cleared area among the thick bankside trees below.

In reply to Mammon o' Greybridge (msg # 72):

"Ah I see. Thank you. Yes I can heal to a small extent. But for now it is fine my lady," Lann says before mouthing a simple incantation to close his wounds.

Ooc: cast heal injury.
This message was last edited by the GM at 23:16, Fri 15 Nov 2019.

Barlow called out to the others, " Clearing below, through the trees.  What else did that map say?  Though judging by the dead man we're probably on the right trail."

" Can't see nothing but you've better eyes than me.", Barlow grumbled.

" So what do we all think is going to be in there?"

"Lets stop and check,"Lann says, before spreading the map on the floor for the others to study.

OOC:What does the map say?
This message was last edited by the GM at 02:48, Sat 16 Nov 2019.

OOC: Very little. Just that the entrance is possibly at the rivers source near a distinctive boulder. You'd probably have to head down there to see what you could find.

Lann suggests going down to inspect. When everyone is ready and agrees, he will lead the way.

Moving forward along the trail it eventually starts to descend and loop back upon itself again and again as it descends below the tree line into the dark, cool valley cleft.

It is quite dark beneath the trees, the spring sunlight not reaching down past the valley walls, eventually the path comes to a halt beside a deep pool fed by a waterfall somewhere far up the cliff face, a small but deep stream flows out of the pool and seemingly eventually becomes the River Ereworn somewhere far downstream....

There seems to be a way across the streams crown via a series of weathered boulders...

“Shall we search the area my friends? Or cross the stream?” Lann asks.
This message was last edited by the GM at 08:03, Mon 18 Nov 2019.

" We cross I think....perhaps the entrance is in the other wall of the canyon?"

Drummond walked over to the pool and checked the water, " We're looking for a white boulder and a seal?"

" Thats what it says...."

Barlow looked up at the afternoon sky, " Should we spread out to search?"

Lann suggests spreading out in a line to search and remaining near each other.
This message was last edited by the GM at 09:56, Mon 18 Nov 2019.

The four of them searched the area around the pool and found little evidence of anything other than trees and rocks.

Barlow did find some old evidence of human activity, boot scrapes and the like....

Mammon stroked Otto under the chin, " We are searching for a sorcerers den, no?"

" Lann of the Hills? Do you know much of sorcery?"

" Well....I hope so, cos I can't see shit."

"A tweeny bit. Let me see if my senses work,"'Lann says, casting perception of sorcery.
This message was last edited by the GM at 08:10, Wed 20 Nov 2019.

As Lann ran his enhanced sight over the area he began to pick up strange shimmering symbols woven into the landscape....they led up the opposite slope...

Lann informs his companions of his find and suggests they follow the symbols. He also inspects the rusty sword he had taken from the corpse.

The sword was possibly once a fine weapon, however it has been exposed to the elements and uncared for and pockmarked with tarnish and rust, a smith may buy it to melt it down to make smaller items.

" Oh! Really? Well, excellent work then.", Barlow said trying to peer where Lann was pointing and seeing nothing.

" Uh, best you lead the way."

In reply to GM (msg # 93):

"Let us go then my friends. Be careful though," Lann says. He will use his magical sight to guide him to along the trail.

OOC: that sword isn't magical?
This message was last edited by the GM at 23:11, Wed 20 Nov 2019.

OOC: Nope, its a big heavy piece of crap.

OOC:
Big heavy piece of crap dumped! Hahaha.
This message was last edited by the GM at 04:12, Thu 21 Nov 2019.

In reply to GM (msg # 96):

" I'm always careful. Thats why your in the lead.", Mammom purred.

Barlow shouldered his pack and using his green spear as a staff followed the others...

" Aye, I'll follow."

Lann leads the way up the slope and soon notes a large white boulder projecting from the cliffside. Skirting the boulder he notes a cave-like opening in the lee of the boulder....

"This looks like the entrance to the laboratory. Shall we enter guys?" Lann asks politely.
This message was last edited by the GM at 10:40, Thu 21 Nov 2019.

Looking within the cave Lann can see a slab of finished stone a little way inside blocking further entry.

There are four symbols carved at cardinal points of a cross...the one at the top is a stylized sun, the one to the right a stylized stag, the one at the bottom a stylized horses skull and the one on the left is a stylized hand.

Lann consults the map, his memory and his friends on how to open the door.

There is nothing on the map about the door and he can't recall much about any of the symbols...

" Hmmm...looks interesting...."

" A cross, common symbol amongst various practices....druidic, galdr...even more modern beliefs."

" Well.....thats a horse skull, the demon the King defeated was represented by a horses skull wasn't it? And its at the bottom of the cross."

" The sun....power, flame....but I think it may represent the divine being opposite our demon friend."

" Antlers and a hand....any ideas?"

" Yep...those are definitely some pictures...."

“I have only come across the horse skull. Perhaps I should consult some fey creatures if you guys don’t mind. I can ask for their aid once a day,” Lann replies
This message was last edited by the GM at 02:24, Fri 22 Nov 2019.

"Sure...I guess."

" The demonic...the divine....could antlers be the fey?"

" The hand....men, perhaps? So divine, fey, demonic, mortal..."

" A sorcerers lock....would it open by magic?"

This message was last edited by the player at 02:30, Fri 22 Nov 2019.

Mammon laughed out loud, " Well....I'm generally not one to call others out for their callings and summonings....not others at least."

" But Mr Greencap could be onto something here....a sorcerers lock would require magic to open it....and there are four symbols here...."

" The blessings of the gods. The rituals of the Pit. The dweomers of the fey. And the power of man...."

" Four types of magic?"

" This Darian was certainly serious about keeping people out of here."

"I have no ability to open magic lock. Anyone has? If not perhaps asking for help is n order," Lann says.

Mammon rubbed her temple slightly, " Your a very straight forward sort of thinker aren't you? Well, we will need fey sorceries for at least a quarter of the job anyway...so you may as well."

" I can handle another of the others......do you have anything godly about you? An item or spell?"

" We may need to sacrifice Drummond for the mortal symbol.", she said with a wicked grin.

"Something holy? I have never used anything holy," Lann says.

He uses his ring and summons a fey to help.

"Be careful guys."
This message was last edited by the GM at 01:08, Sun 24 Nov 2019.

A small form crawled out of the underbrush near the boulder keeping to the shadows as best it could.

The being was small, not more than a metre tall, with a disproportionately large head. Its face was warty, sallow and hollow-cheeked, with a large hooked nose and sunken eyes. It wore a grey-green hooded jerkin and carried a flint dagger in its clawed hand.

" You called?", its eyes flicked across the other three hovering longest on Mammon and Otto before they flicked back to Lann.

" Your wanting to get through the door then?"

"Yes sir could you please tell me more about this place and the meanings of the symbols?" Lann asks politely.
This message was last edited by the GM at 02:15, Sun 24 Nov 2019.

" Sir? Ain't nobody ever called Licktoad a Sir before.....Sir Licktoad...I likes that."

" This place is a pit of death and horror....and that means a fair bit coming from me.  Theres some nasty stuff I've heard when the doors been open...I've not been inside mind.  Too nasty a place for the likes of me."

" Meanings of the symbols? From my listening you've already figured that lot out."

“You are a good sir! Could you tell me more about what you know or heard about inside the doors? Are there any things dangerous inside?” Lann asks concerned
This message was last edited by the GM at 08:37, Sun 24 Nov 2019.

Drummond turned towards Mammon, " Did he just make a little man...."

Mammons eyes glittered, " No.....he used an incredibly powerful artifact to summon one of the underfolk...a goblin if I'm not mistaken."

" If you say so, I've heard screams and wails and moans.  Those taken within certainly looked scared enough that I'd think it dangerous enough."

" Last I saw go in was a man in hood, leading a bunch of folks in chains....that was near two years past....no ones come out since."

" Well, we already know its likely dangerous otherwise he wouldn't have sent us.  Does your little Hob know how the symbols relate to magics needed to open the door?"

" My guess is one flavour of spell for each symbol..."

“Ah so they should still be in there? Did you hear any screams recently? And can you teach me how to get in or better still open the doors safely sir?” Lann asks politely.
This message was last edited by the GM at 10:17, Sun 24 Nov 2019.

In reply to Toirneach Lann (msg # 122):

" Can't hear nothing once the doors closed."

" Like the Lady says. One spell for each symbol."

" I can whistle something up for the fey symbol."

" Lady smells like she could do the bottom one."

" Your magic is of man? Or something else? Wheres it from?"

" I've seen em use blood for the Man-Sign."

"My magic is from mother. I learnt it from her and learn from fighting men! Will it help?”‘ Lann asks.
This message was last edited by the GM at 08:49, Mon 25 Nov 2019.

" Well....depends where she got it from really...did you ever ask?"

Barlow looked at Drummond, " Any idea whats happening?"

Drummond shrugged, " A lot of talking...not much else."

" Well...he doesn't seem overly godly to me, Hob."

" Then again....there are many different kinds of Gods...."

" Would an item blessed by the Gods do, Lann?"

”I have no idea but i m a pretty good magician. So what spells are needed?” Lann asks.
This message was last edited by the GM at 11:00, Mon 25 Nov 2019.

" You've never looked into your heritage? Whyever not?"

At Lanns question, Mammon looked from Lann to the goblin and then back again, " How have you survived this long? Did you just kill all your problems?"

She giggled, a slightly offputting sound, " Ok, Hob..uh, Licktoad? We need a glamour on the fae symbol. I will hex the lower symbol...we will trust that Lanns heritage is not demonic or fae...and if that fails we'll try Barlows spear unless you have something god-touched you've forgotten about Lann."

" Drummond, can you cut your hand and place it on the hand symbol? Pretty, please."

Licktoad chuckled to itself, " I can if the Ring Master orders it so."

" Your kidding? No, your not....right then."

He drew a dagger and moved towards the door, " Just say when."

“Please do good sir. And what spell should I cast?”
This message was last edited by the GM at 00:21, Tue 26 Nov 2019.

" One that won't kill the rest of us would be nice....", the goblin said in a slightly frustrated voice.

" Now Drummond.", said Mammon softly as she reached toward the bottom symbol with a crooked hand, * Qamu *, black roiling flame focused around her hand and then into the stone...
This message was last edited by the player at 00:37, Tue 26 Nov 2019.

Drummond slashed his hand with his dagger and pressed the bleeding wound to the hand symbol...

In reply to Drummond Gilrow (msg # 136):

Licktoad reached up to touch the stag and a thin patina of ice crawled across the stone around his hand.

Lann reach for the top symbol and sent a pulse of healing energy into the stone...
This message was last edited by the GM at 01:58, Tue 26 Nov 2019.

As each dweomer or blood was pressed into the stone it was absorbed by the stone....Lanns spell hovered for a moment as if the stone was unsure about accepting it and then slipped within.

There was a soft grinding sound and the door swung inwards.

"Thank you for your help Licky, Sir! May I pass you this as a gesture of thanks?" Lann asks, passing the fey a gold crown.

He dismisses the fey in gratitude and enters the room with his friends.
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:27, Tue 26 Nov 2019.

As the door opened the dim light illuminated a short section of stonework which then pitched downward into a steep set of stairs descending into the depths.

Lann asks if anyone can provide light as he enters the room carefully with his friends.

" I'll light my lantern."

“Thank you my friend! I prefer to hold my sword and shield,” Lann says.
When the lantern is lit, he will lead the way.

Ooc: what is the time now boss?
This message was last edited by the GM at 23:31, Tue 26 Nov 2019.

Lann led the way down the steep stairs as they plunged into the mountain, somewhere far below the sound of trickling water could be heard and an occasional echoing thumping sound.....and then a sudden loud scream somewhere in the dark, far distant.

OOC: Mid-late Afternoon.

" This Darian must have been an accomplished magician....a fourfold lock and these earthworks...unless he found them and repurposed them."

"There seems to be people screaming inside. Let us be careful. Yes I think the duke might be even more powerful than us," Lann says.
This message was last edited by the GM at 09:08, Wed 27 Nov 2019.

" People was it? Well, luckily for us Corbin did us a service by killing the old bastard so we don't have to worry about him."

" Aye.....but no ones been through that door for near two years according to that little Goodfellow."

Eventually after 10 minutes of descending the staircase ends in a chamber, the chamber at the bottom of the staircase is empty, unlit, and flooded with water to a depth of 2 feet.

The room like the stairs and walls seems hewn from limestone and unlit, it is vaguely rectangular in shape.

The room is bare of decoration or furnishings and a tunnel leads on on the far side of it.

“Hopefully the minions are weak! Shall we continue down the tunnel?” Lann asks.
This message was last edited by the GM at 12:05, Wed 27 Nov 2019.

" Sure, may as well die down there as in here."

The group headed across the room wading through the water which ended a little way down the slight upslope of the tunnel, the tunnel curved to the left and then after a way to the right then opened into a dome roofed circular chamber with three doors one in the south wall one in the east and one in the west.

East Door. The face of this door bears a carving of a tall, armored man wearing a bucket helm. His right gauntlet is painted black and clutches a set of shackles.

West Door. This door bears a carving of a powerfully built, horse-skull-headed man with long, curved blades where his hands should be.

South Door. This door bears a carving of a cloaked figure whose face is hidden under a cowl. In his skeletal hands, be clutches a screaming human skull.

" How lovely."

" So....bondage, torture or death? What a wonderful choice lays before us."

" Uh...I'm rapidly becoming unhappy with this place..."

Barlow moved forward and checked each of the doors...

OOC:
14:20, Today: GM, on behalf of Barlow Greencap, rolled 12 using 2d10.  Trap ST vs PER 12.

OOC: All appear safe.

Barlow straightened up after inspecting the doors, " Well....as far as I can tell the doors won't kill anyone."

“Makes no difference which door we open. All appear dangerous. Let us open the East door?” Lann asks
This message was last edited by the GM at 04:45, Thu 28 Nov 2019.

" Lead on!"

The door pushes open on quiet hinges into a straight dry corridor that runs for five minutes before a sharp right turn...the floor at the corner is wet....

The group move down to the corner and Lann, in the lead, cautiously peered around the corner.

The eastern part of the room is unlit, flooded, and braced with floor-to-ceiling wooden beams. Rough-hewn steps rise out of the murky water to the western portion of the room, which is dry and lit by two torches in sconces that flank a stone altar. Shackled to the wall behind the altar is a sickly looking man in a loincloth with a burlap sack over his head. An alcove in the north wall contains a freestanding suit of plate missing its helm.

Standing before the altar are two grim figures: a powerfully built woman clutching a mace, and an even bigger man wearing a bucket helm. The helmed man is jabbing the prisoner with a spear, causing him to twitch. Both figures are clad in maille, and the woman carries a
wooden shield with a horses skull painted on it.

" What do you see?", Drummond whispered when Lann stopped.

“Enemy fight,” Lann says casting enhancement as he moves in to create space for his companions
This message was last edited by the GM at 06:22, Thu 28 Nov 2019.

" Enemy fight? There are enemies and they're fighting? I dont...oh, he's gone round the corner..."

Drummond rounded the corner and charged towards the huge man.
This message was last edited by the player at 06:26, Thu 28 Nov 2019.

" I guess we follow then..."

Mammon rounded the corner and spat a dweomer at the woman. *Akitu*

OOC: Cast Indulgence.
This message was last edited by the player at 06:34, Thu 28 Nov 2019.

Barlow charged the big man alongside Drummond.

“Enemy fight,” Lann says casting enhancement as he moves in to create space for his companions

" Enemy fight? There are enemies and they're fighting? I dont...oh, he's gone round the corner..."

Drummond rounded the corner and charged towards the huge man.

" I guess we follow then..."

Mammon rounded the corner and spat a dweomer at the woman. *Akitu*

Barlow charged the big man alongside Drummond.

Drummond and Barlow charged the huge man while Lann made his sorcerous preparations and Mammon cast her spell. Barlows blow went wide, but Drummond hammered in hard with his twin daggers the blades sinking into the huge mans chest to seemingly little effect.  The huge man span and thrust his spear at Barlow but the slim man ducked aside avoiding it.

Mammons spell struck the woman and seemed to take effect, the composed almost serene expression fled her face and it became an animalistic mask of naked want, long sharp canines slid down from her upper jaw and she hissed as she suddenly raced forward towards Mammon. Her mace whipped across and caught Mammon in the midsection with a loud crunch sending her flying across the room....the woman then charged at Lann.

OOC:

-6 hp to Mammon.

Mammon gasped loudly with the wind knocked out of her, " Damn....thought she was human..."

" Owwww...."

Lann attacks the woman with his enchanted blade.

Mammon raised herself up on her side and reached out towards the woman, *Galla*


OOC: Torment.

Barlow recovered and stabbed upward with his spear.

Drummond continued clinging to the hulking figure stabbing wildly...

Mammon raised herself up on her side and reached out towards the woman, *Galla*

Lann attacks the woman with his enchanted blade....but delayed his swing as he saw Mammon throw a curse his enemies way. The woman opposite him was in a frenzy and obviously out of her mind with...hunger...bloodlust?  She swung her mace with staggering force but enhanced by sorcery and clad in magical armour and wielding a magical weapon Lann was in little real danger and he responded to her strike with a vicious cut that pierced through her maille with ease.

Barlow recovered and stabbed upward with his spear, but he was well out of practice and missed again.

Drummond continued clinging to the hulking figure stabbing wildly...his blades cutting away at the grey flesh but not slowing the 'man' at all.

The hulking form lashed out at Drummond but he was clinging too tightly for it to get much power behind its blow and it glance off his plate.

Seeing the maddened woman attack with such eratic blows, Lann's confidence goes a notch higher as he swings his enchanted blade to strike at the evil woman, cursing her ancestors for bringing up such evil as he attacks.

Mammon reached into her pack and pulled forth a squirming mouse by the tail and tossed it to Otto who had retreated back away from the damp ground.

*Usella Mituti Ikkalu Baltuti*

As Otto grabbed the small creature from the air and crushed its spine before swallowing it translucent tendrils of red flowed from it towards Mammon and she sat up a little straighter.


OOC:

10:31, Today: Mammon o' Greybridge rolled 2 using 1d4.  Vitality. +2 hp.

Barlow began swearing and cursing at the huge silent warrior as he thrust his spear. The green spear drove in hard at his foe.



OOC:

10:38, Today: Barlow Greencap rolled 4 using 2d4+1.  armor bypass.
10:38, Today: Barlow Greencap rolled 7 using 1d20.  ATT 16 - DEF ?

Drummond continued hanging where he was anchored by his daggers, tugging and hacking with the weapons..

Mammon reached into her pack and pulled forth a squirming mouse by the tail and tossed it to Otto who had retreated back away from the damp ground.

*Usella Mituti Ikkalu Baltuti*

As Otto grabbed the small creature from the air and crushed its spine before swallowing it translucent tendrils of red flowed from it towards Mammon and she sat up a little straighter.

Seeing the maddened woman attack with such eratic blows, Lann's confidence goes a notch higher as he swings his enchanted blade to strike at the evil woman, cursing her ancestors for bringing up such evil as he attacks.

Lann struck true but he wasn't able to put all his strength behind the blow and the womans armour protected her from the blade. In response she swung a devasting blow that would have destroyed an unenhanced opponent but Lanns sorcerous enhancements and items allowed him to slip aside.

...

Barlow began swearing and cursing at the huge silent warrior as he thrust his spear. The green spear drove in hard at his foe. The spear drove through the hulking mans side and a gout of cold black blood issued forth though he did not slow.

Drummond continued hanging where he was anchored by his daggers, tugging and hacking with the weapons..as he drew back one dagger it was tangled in the damaged maille and he was unable to land a blow as he untangled it. As Drummond struggled with the blade the huge mans left hand gripped him by the shoulder and held him up in the air, he had a moment to note it before the huge weapon in the silent warriors other hand came around and slammed into him sending him flying across the room. ( -8 hp)
This message was last edited by the GM at 23:57, Fri 29 Nov 2019.

Lann continues to strike at the fiend.

Mammon reached into her pack again and pulled forth another mouse, she looked to Otto who shook his head decisively, she shrugged and crushed the small animal in her hand.

*Usella Mituti Ikkalu Baltuti*

As it died she breathed a little easier and stood to her feet...

OOC:


19:59, Today: Mammon o' Greybridge rolled 4 using 1d4. (+4 hp)

Drummond groaned and sat up against the wall, " Ouch..."

He charged back into the fray beside Barlow.

Barlow pivoted as he withdrew the spear and plunged it towards the hulking warrior again...

Lann continues to strike at the fiend, but she swung her mace hard at his blade causing it to vibrate sharply jarring his hand.

Mammon reached into her pack again and pulled forth another mouse, she looked to Otto who shook his head decisively, she shrugged and crushed the small animal in her hand.

*Usella Mituti Ikkalu Baltuti*

As it died she breathed a little easier and stood to her feet...

.........

Drummond groaned and sat up against the wall, " Ouch..."

He charged back into the fray beside Barlow, leaping up and plunging his daggers into the eye-slit of the buckethelm.

Barlow pivoted as he withdrew the spear and plunged it towards the hulking warrior again...but was unable to make contact as it staggered back blinded by Drummonds attack....it swung blindly at them but was unable to make contact.

Lann continues to strike at the evil fiend.

Mammon stood and spat a word, *ANZU*

A plume of black flame spat from her mouth and lashed the vampire...

Drummond wrenched his daggers back and forth as he hung from the giant frame...

Barlow stepped back a little and charged in with his spear held high.

Lanns blade came across hard and sheared through the vampires neck even as Mammons flame hit it and the entire frame burst into flames as the body crashed to the ground.

Drummond leapt back as Barlow charged, his spear plunging through and transfixing the hulk to the wall where it slumped forward and then collapsed to the ground when Barlow removed the spear.

Lann approaches the prisoner to see if he is alive, searches the enemies and the place.
This message was last edited by the player at 23:18, Tue 03 Dec 2019.

Mammon continued resting against the wall catching her breathe as the others searched the sodden room.

Drummond kicked the downed hulk and wrenched off the helmet...

Barlow crouched down, " That was no man..."

As Lann pulled the hood off the suspended prisoner to see if he was alive the 'man' lurched forward, chipped teeth snapping shut towards Lanns face...but the dead thing was too well bound and could not get close enough to do damage.

Drummond removed the helmet to reveal a rotting features and grey flesh, rough stitches joined slabs of flesh together...he noted the maille and maul were not worth their weight.

Lann moved about the chamber and found little other than waterlogged stone.

Pissed, Lann chops the prisoner up cursing his ancestor and progeny

" Well....thats one way to work out aggression..."

" So undead....and a vampire to boot....and whatever that behemoth the lads took down was...a fun place so far."

Looking around the chamber revealed little else there was a tunnel leading east up a small set of stairs.

Lann leads his friends down the tunnel

As they move down the tunnel it runs straight for one hundred metres before ending at a solid iron door, just before this door are two wooden and iron doors opposite each other.

“Which door my friends? Anyone good with checking traps?”’Lann asks

Barlow held a finger up to his lips and headed carefully down the corridor to check the three doors.

OOC:
12:08, Today: Barlow Greencap rolled 19 using 2d10.  Stealth.

12:14, Today: Barlow Greencap rolled 12 using 2d10.  Perception: Traps.

Barlow determined that the two wooden doors were secured from the outside by an iron latch through a stirrup.  The metal door seemed to have a keyhole of sorts but did not seem to be locked.

His keen hearing and sight found no traps, but there was a faint noise coming from behind the metal door.

Lann gestures if the metal door can be opened.

Barlow came back towards Lann and the others, " Theres a noise behind the metal door...the other two seem quiet. Metal doors unlocked, other two are latched from this side."

"Shall we open the door and surprise the person inside the metal door? In case he surprise us when we explore other doors?" Lann suggests.

" After what just happened I'm not too sure it will be a person but sure...off you go."

Barlow moved behind Drummond as they moved down the corridor.

"Someone open the door and I will go in and engage," Lann whispers, drawing his magic blade and shield.

Ooc: enhancement still active boss?
This message was last edited by the GM at 09:28, Fri 06 Dec 2019.

As the door was already open, just as Barlow had said, Lann was able to enter just by pushing it and walking through.

As Lann enters he notes that the room is lit by a series of torches set in sconces every 20
feet.

Horrid paintings of evil deeds and demonic forms cover the walls and ceiling. A large altar rests along the southeast wall, next to a silver water font.

A large image of a horses skull wreathed in serpents is partially carved in the western portion of the room. Stonecutter’s tools lie around the partially completed statue. Also in
this room are six black robed figures and a seventh figure dressed in similar robes with a silvered breastplate.  They are speaking about a round stone table, all are dishevelled and dirty.
This message was last edited by the GM at 09:54, Fri 06 Dec 2019.

OOC:  Do they see us? How far away are they? Can we surprise them?
This message was last edited by the GM at 22:56, Fri 06 Dec 2019.

OOC: They are in deep discussion and have not seen Lann yet. The room is about 20m across, they are in the centre.  Surprise is unsure....Lanns fairly certain they would note a change in the torch shadows if more than one person entered.

Ooc: 20m means we can run in surprise them this round and fight next round right?
This message was last edited by the GM at 01:57, Sat 07 Dec 2019.

OOC: The room is 20m across they're in the middle about 10m away, you could close and attack in one round. The others will be in there the round after having to enter single file through the door.

Lann gestures to his friends to charge in and attack the enemy.

Barlow charges with his spear.

In reply to Barlow Greencap (msg # 212):

Drummond is in beside Barlow.

Mammon will stay behind the other two and try to catch as many enemies as possible with her spells.

OOC: Use Hellsbreath ( QAMU).

Lann charges into the room and across towards the table, he was almost there when they suddenly noticed him and turned.

One of them pointed at the door as Barlow entered, followed by Drummond and Mammon.

Two of the black robed men charged Lann while four more went towards Barlow and Drummond.

The decorated individual moved behind the table and surveyed the scene.

Lann traded blows with his enemies, one managed to get through his defenses but his blade rebounded off of Lanns enchanted armour.

Barlow and Drummond were both unable to connect with their enemies, but their enemies were unable to harm them as well....until one of the black clad priests ducked low and drove a blade up hard under Barlows ribs...he shuddered as toxins from the blade flooded his system but he fought it off. ( - 4 hp+ -1 hp).

Mammon scowled at the priest who had stabbed Barlow and spitting a word *QAMU* breathed out a stream of burning vapours that enveloped him boiling and scalding his skin. He staggered but remained upright.


The armour clad priest snarled at Lann and Lann felt a wave of force move through him threatening to tear him apart. ( - 8 hp Lann)





OOC:
20:00, Today: GM, on behalf of Toirneach Lann, rolled 9 using 2d10.Surprise. Fail.

20:16, Today: GM, for the NPC Priest 1, rolled 2 using 1d4+1.  ABR. Fail.

20:15, Today: GM, for the NPC Priest 2, rolled 8 using 1d20.  ATT 15 - DEF 8. Miss

20:14, Today: GM, for the NPC Priest 1, rolled 2 using 1d20.  ATT 15 - DEF 9. Hit

20:12, Today: GM, on behalf of Toirneach Lann, rolled 15 using 1d20.  ATT 21 - DEF 9.


20:24, Today: GM, on behalf of Barlow Greencap, rolled 5 using 3d6. Poison Save.

20:20, Today: GM, for the NPC Priest 6, rolled 8 using 1d20. Miss

20:20, Today: GM, for the NPC Priest 5, rolled 9 using 1d20. Miss

20:19, Today: GM, for the NPC Priest 4, rolled 1 using 1d20. Critical

20:19, Today: GM, for the NPC Priest 3, rolled 17 using 1d20. Miss

20:19, Today: GM, on behalf of Drummond Gilrow, rolled 13 using 1d20. Miss

20:19, Today: GM, on behalf of Barlow Greencap, rolled 15 using 1d20. Miss

20:39, Today: GM, on behalf of Mammon o' Greybridge, rolled 5 using 2d6.  Hellsbreath Damage.

20:38, Today: GM, for the NPC Priest 6, rolled 12 using 2d10. Evasion. Failed.

20:36, Today: GM, on behalf of Mammon o' Greybridge, rolled 1 using 1d4.  Hellsbreath Targets.

21:04, Today: GM, for the NPC High Priest, rolled 7 using 2d10.  SPD 16 vs EVA 8. Hits Lann.

21:17, Today: GM, for the NPC High Priest, rolled 8 using 3d6-4.  Mystic Blast Damage.

Barlow winced as the toxin moved through his system, and attempted to run one of his assailants through.

Drummond grimaced as Barlow was struck and went into a frenzy...

Mammon gasped and reached out toward the man who had stabbed Barlow, *KANU*

OOC: Torment.

Lann casts heal injury and engages his foe in a fighting withdrawal

Barlow winced as the toxin moved through his system, and attempted to run one of his assailants through. His spear missed as his opponents closed in, both their blows missing him as one screamed in agony from Mammons spell.

Drummond grimaced as Barlow was struck and went into a frenzy...plunging his daggers into the enemy to his right. Neither of his foes was able to land a blow.

Lann casts heal injury and engages his foe in a fighting withdrawal, Lanns adversarys charged at him but their flashing daggers were unable to penetrate his defenses.

The High Priest turned and ran towards a door on the far side of the chamber, reaching to open it...

OOC:

17:15, Today: GM, on behalf of Toirneach Lann, rolled 3 using 1d4. ( +3 hp)

17:13, Today: GM, on behalf of Drummond Gilrow, rolled 3 using 1d20. ( -4 to P5)

17:13, Today: GM, on behalf of Barlow Greencap, rolled 12 using 1d20. Miss)

17:12, Today: GM, on behalf of Mammon o' Greybridge, rolled 5 using 2d10. ( -3 stats P3)

17:12, Today: GM, on behalf of Barlow Greencap, rolled 1 using 1d4. ( -1 hp)

17:19, Today: GM, for the NPC Priest 4, rolled 14 using 1d20. Miss

17:19, Today: GM, for the NPC Priest 3, rolled 16 using 1d20. Miss

17:21, Today: GM, for the NPC Priest 6, rolled 18 using 1d20. Miss

17:21, Today: GM, for the NPC Priest 5, rolled 17 using 1d20. Miss

17:22, Today: GM, for the NPC Priest 2, rolled 17 using 1d20. Miss

17:22, Today: GM, for the NPC Priest 1, rolled 17 using 1d20. Miss

" Bloody poison, thats not right lads."

He focused on the one who had been injured, " Your not looking too great there lad, maybe just hang back a bit. Let your friend here do the work."

OOC: Pacify.

Drummond charged into one of his opponents attempting to knock him off his feet while slashing at the other with his blades.

Mammon cursed under her breath and sent Otto around the edge of the chamber, she lifted her dagger in her hand and threw it at the cloaked man she had wounded earlier.

Lann continues to strike at the most injured man he can

Barlow focused on the one who had been injured, " Your not looking too great there lad, maybe just hang back a bit. Let your friend here do the work." The man he spoke to looked unsure and backed off a little, but as Mammons blade flashed past his ear he lunged forward and stabbed Barlow in the chest. Barlow gasped and fell to the ground...the men turned to look at Mammon and advanced on her...

Drummond charged into one of his opponents attempting to knock him off his feet while slashing at the other with his blades. One of them was knocked back, the other fell back in a spray of blood and lay silent on the ground.

Mammon cursed under her breath and sent Otto around the edge of the chamber, she lifted her dagger in her hand and threw it at the cloaked man she had wounded earlier. The dagger flew past him and sank into the stone behind him....

Lann continued to fight his as yet uninjured opponents as they followed him in his retreat, opening up a nasty slash across one of their chests as they fought. His opponents tried to return the favour but he easily dodged their blows.

The armoured priest opened the door at the rear of the chamber and yelled, " Intruders in the Sanctum! Intruders!"

Answering voices began to be faintly heard through the open door...


OOC:

12:04, Today: GM, for the NPC Priest 4, rolled 1 using 1d4. ABR fail.

12:04, Today: GM, for the NPC Priest 3, rolled 2 using 1d4. ABR. -4 hp to Barlow

12:03, Today: GM, for the NPC Priest 6, rolled 9 using 1d20.Miss

12:03, Today: GM, for the NPC Priest 5, rolled 12 using 1d20.Miss

12:03, Today: GM, for the NPC Priest 4, rolled 4 using 1d20.Hit

12:03, Today: GM, for the NPC Priest 3, rolled 5 using 1d20.Hit

12:03, Today: GM, for the NPC Priest 2, rolled 15 using 1d20.Miss

12:03, Today: GM, for the NPC Priest 1, rolled 19 using 1d20.Miss

12:01, Today: GM, on behalf of Toirneach Lann, rolled 6 using 1d20.Hit

11:59, Today: GM, on behalf of Drummond Gilrow, rolled 6 using 1d20. Hit

11:58, Today: GM, on behalf of Mammon o' Greybridge, rolled 14 using 1d20. Miss

Drummond saw Barlow fall and redoubled his attacks on his remaining enemy...

Mammon moved forward to Barlow and took a vial from her pouch pouring it into his mouth, wary of his attackers.

Lann attacks valiantly trying to form a line with his peers

Mammon moved forward to Barlow and took a vial from her pouch pouring it into his mouth, wary of his attackers. Barlow swallowed the elixir and came back to himself just as his attackers stabbed in sharply at Mammon, she tried to fend them off but both blows sank into her chest and she fell to the floor vomiting blood.

Drummond saw Barlow fall and redoubled his attacks on his remaining enemy...his enemy stabbed in hard at him and Drummond simple laughed as the blade scraped across hi armour. He thrust hi own blade into the mans neck and bit his ear off for good measure.

Lann came up level with Mammon and Barlow, trading blows with his attacker but neither side could land a hit.

" The Lady falls! Heal her while I kill these two idiots!  Barlow! On your feet and defend Mammon!"

He moved forward spitting out chunks of his enemys ear to engaged Mammons attackers.

Barlow came back to his senses with a sweet taste in his mouth just in time to see Mammon struck down, he snatched up his spear and thrust at the men.

Lann moves to the lady and casts heal injury while dragging her towards the exit
“Tactical withdrawal, guys,” Lann says
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:45, Mon 30 Dec 2019.

Lann gathered up Mammon trusting in his armour to protect him while Drummond and Barlow hewed at Barlows former foes.


As Lann moved towards the entry door Mammon stirred awake from the energies Lann summoned, one of Lanns foes stabbed hard at him but the blade was stymied by his enchanted armour.

Drummond and Barlow were unable to damage their foes but were likewise undamaged...they retreated back towards the door as well....

Lann Carries the pretty lass to the door and urges his friends to withdraw tactically. He parries enemies with his blade.

Barlow followed Lann engaging with Lanns opponents as well as his own.

Drummond formed up behind Barlow taking on all four combatants as they moved toward the doorway.

Mammon stirred awake over Lanns shoulder, " And you haven't even bought me a drink yet..."

She pointed to those following and spat " BUBUSSUNU".

Both of the robed figures at the back aimed lethal blows at Drummond, but both blades skated off his armour, in return he flayed open the side of one mans face while kicking the other away.

One of Lanns attackers slashed at Barlow but he ducked under the blow his own attack evaded as well.

As Lann carried Mammon through the door he saw a poisoned dagger heading straight for his eye, but his sorcerous limbs managed to pull his shield up at the last moment despite carrying Mammon and he was saved from certain death.

Mammons curse hit the one wielding the dagger and he suddenly stopped what he was doing and began shoving stale bread from a pouch on his belt into his mouth....



OOC:

At the end of this round Lann and Mammon are through the door, 1 enemy is between Drummond and Barlow who are next to the door, two enemies follow them, 1 enemy currently incapacitated by spell.

17:41, Today: GM, on behalf of Toirneach Lann, rolled 1 using 1d6. Shield Block, avoids poisoning.

17:39, Today: GM, for the NPC Priest 4, rolled 2 using 1d20. Hit, ABR failed.

17:39, Today: GM, for the NPC Priest 3, rolled 8 using 1d20. Hit ABR failed.

17:38, Today: GM, for the NPC Priest 2, rolled 14 using 1d20.

17:38, Today: GM, for the NPC Priest 1, rolled 1 using 1d20. Hit, Critical.

12:32, Today: GM, on behalf of Mammon o' Greybridge, rolled 4 using 2d10. Works.

12:32, Today: GM, on behalf of Drummond Gilrow, rolled 6 using 1d20. Hit.

12:32, Today: GM, on behalf of Barlow Greencap, rolled 12 using 1d20. Miss.

Lann drops the lady beside him and looks to the one who tried to poke him with poisoned dagger, cursing his ancestors. But he cannot reach him as he is back in the chamber...
This message was last edited by the GM at 04:44, Sat 04 Jan 2020.

" Drummond get in here and get that door closed.", Mammon yelled as she slumped against the wall.

Barlow planted the butt of his spear into the ground and vaulted over the intervening cloaked man and through the door.

OOC:

16:00, Today: Barlow Greencap rolled 2 using 1d20.

Drummond turned his back on the two behind him and slammed into the man between him and the others driving him through the door then attempting to slam it behind him.

" This door opens towards them...any ideas on how to secure it?"

The door was closed behind Drummond...for a few seconds at least. Lann was able to strike at the man that had preceeded Drummond through the door and struck him down.

If the man is outside the chamber, Lann will carry the body and retreat from the passageway, telling his friends, "Let's get out of here first and discuss."

Drummond grabbed hold of the door keeping it closed, his muscles straining, " We can't just keep retreating. If we leave this door open then anyone they call can just follow, and heading back that way there were other passageways. We could get hit from both sides."

Lann will secure the door by using an old weapon or dagger, placing it against the door latch/opening or whatever you call that.

" It opens away from us, that might work if we...."

She looked at the handle, " If we can jam the handle from turning down on this side it should stop it from turning the other side....we need..."

She pointed to the corpse, " Jam him sitting upright under the handle and fix him in place with something....that should do it."

"Good idea," Lann quickly does what the lady suggeted while asking her to search the body for valuables.
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:56, Fri 10 Jan 2020.

Barlow came forward and thrust a dagger through the dead mans shoulder into the door, "That should hold him."

The door blocked for the moment a quick search of the body reveals little more than a pouch at the mans waist containing dry bread and hard cheese.  He has a brand in the shape of a horses skull surrounded by serpentine shapes over his heart and appears quite emaciated.

There is banging on the door and the handle keeps smashing into the dead mans skull but cannot turn...

For the moment there is no sound coming from the other direction.

“Shall we explore other areas or leave and inform the king there is still a big presence here?” Lann asks
This message was last edited by the GM at 01:53, Sat 11 Jan 2020.

Drummond did his best to wipe blood off his breastplate.

" We still haven't really found much have we? We don't know what they were doing here and if we leave now and they pack up and go we might never know."

" Give me a few minutes and I can make things easier for three of us....a bit longer and I might be able to get us some help."

“Well we can find a place to rest and heal up before attacking them again! This time we plan better,” Lann says
He suggests resting in the vampire room
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:49, Sat 11 Jan 2020.

" The what room? Oh, with the big guy and the crazy woman....that room only had two ways in right?"

“I believe so. I think restoring our energies will be helpful: we need to think of what to do as well,” Lann suggests.
This message was last edited by the GM at 22:14, Sat 11 Jan 2020.

The group retreated back to the earlier room.

The eastern part of the room is unlit, flooded, and braced with floor-to-ceiling wooden beams. Rough-hewn steps rise out of the murky water to the western portion of the room, which is dry and lit by two torches in sconces that flank a stone altar. Shackled to the wall behind the altar is a sickly looking man in a loincloth with a burlap sack over his head. An alcove in the north wall contains a freestanding suit of plate missing its helm.

Slumped on the ground before the altar are the bodies of a powerfully built woman clutching a mace, and an even bigger man with a discarded bucket helm lying beside him. The helmed man is jabbing the prisoner with a spear, causing him to twitch. Both figures are clad in maille, and next to the woman is a wooden shield with a horses skull painted on it.

A passageway just around a corner leads out of the room; the companions know it leads back to the room of three doors.

" Theres three left of the cloaked idiots, their leader went for help and by the sound of things found it."

" I'm fine, so I can stand guard while you lot do whatever it is you do."

" Perhaps less than three, I awoke a hunger in one of them that is not easily shaken...he may see his friends as a meal worth sampling."

" But yes, my reserves are almost tapped...once restored I may be able to better prepare at least three of us and perhaps call on some help of a sort."

" Let us stay here and rest for a spell then. THen back to the room of doors or do we have another go at that lot?"

OOC: Is it just before dusk GM? If so, I will terminate spells and cast perception of sorcery and heal everyone with remaining MPs.

OOC: Its hard to tell, cos you underground but its getting close to late afternoon/dusk.

Healing everyone back to full takes 5 mp, lets say. Perception of sorcery shows items you are carrying and some of your companions items, nothing in the chamber appears magical.

Ooc:'just before dusk, lann heals everyone. So what magical stuff do I see on my companions?
This message was last edited by the GM at 02:02, Wed 15 Jan 2020.

OOC: Same as last time you looked: Barlows spear, Mammons dagger and something in her satchel.

OOC:wow seems thy all got good rolls! good good.
This message was last edited by the GM at 02:18, Wed 15 Jan 2020.

The group rested for an hour or so with Drummond keeping watch and Lann using his healing dweomers to knit wounds.

“Shall we rest until our lady regains her magical energies? I think we can explore another aspect of the dungeon if we need to and hope no alarm has been sounded or we can go wipe that room out with ample preparations. I can if lucky slow them down in combat and hope that gives us an advantage in fighting them,” Lann says now that everyone is healed.

“Anyone good at sneaking up on them? And does the lady have any special spells that may be useful? I thought perhaps we can have two to melee and another two to sling arrows or spells. Any suggestions my friends?” Lann continues.
This message was last edited by the GM at 00:28, Sun 19 Jan 2020.

" Special skills....wait...I still have enough energy for a little longer..."

As the group rested Mammon took herself off to the altar and drew from her pack a jewelled serpent clasp and placed it on the altar, slicing her palms to drop blood onto it and then calling Otto to breathe onto the spattered clasp. A slightly ascerbic smell rose in the room and Mammon touched her finger to the the clasp then placed it to her forehead then moved to Lann and Barlow touching their foreheads in turn.

For a moment a scintillating patina of scales flowed over their skins and their eyes glowed golden...

" There. That will do for a wee while, you are under the protection of Kesh the Jewelled Serpent, Lord of Venoms."

OOC: GM see PM.
This message was last edited by the player at 04:17, Sun 19 Jan 2020.

Barlow allowed Mammon to touch his forehead having undergone a similar ceremony on the road together towards Ereworn.

" I can sneak and watch..."

" Two ranks will work in corridors, but that last chamber was too large for that and they could easily flank us...but a good idea for tight spaces."

" I'm not the quietest myself but I'm unhurt and happy to watch for as long as needed.  An alarm has definitely been sounded, for that part of the complex anyway. Assuming one of the other doors in the three-door chamber doesn't loop around to there anyway..."

“We can stand at the door to fight or explore elsewhere first but I think if we can get rid of that room, we are good. I can call for help after midnight. Perhaps that’s when they are sleeping. Early in the morning is the best time to strike,” Lann says.
This message was last edited by the GM at 01:05, Sun 19 Jan 2020.

Mammon looked slightly grumpy, " Well....if we're waiting til midnight I just wasted that imbuing....still I can do it again I suppose...or we can head back to that room now and hope the reinforcements haven't arrived."

“I suppose we can try. What’s that spell you cast? What does it do? The rest what do you guys think?”Lann asks.

Ooc: mammon you have sufficient mp left?
This message was last edited by the GM at 05:22, Fri 24 Jan 2020.

" It imbues up to three people with the essence of Kesh the Jewelled Serpent, Lord of Venoms. It should make the weak willed quail in fear before us....at least thats what it has done when I've used it on myself before."

" Also the one that I afflicted with Gluttony before...if he did not resist its effects...should have run out of food by now and be trying to eat his fellows..or the corpses..so he shouldn't be a problem."

OOC: 4 mp.

" As I said, I'm unharmed and ready to do some damage."

" I'm good to go, though I may hang back a little with Lady Mammon this time."

"Sounds good! Let's go! Someone opens the door, I try to mass slow them and then we do the old two attack one tactic to weaken their defences while our knave sneaks in to flank them. Good?" Lann asks, unconfortable in tactics since his preferred style in the past was always to rush in and attack with knights by his side.
This message was last edited by the GM at 02:45, Sat 25 Jan 2020.

" I'm not sure how your going to slow them....I assume some sort of sorcery?  But the rest sounds fine."

Barlow grimaced, " Flank them. Ok...lets see..."

In reply to Drummond Gilrow (msg # 278):

"Well I know some simple incantation to slow people down but it can be resisted. We have to pray for the best," Lann says, sombre
This message was last edited by the GM at 04:06, Wed 29 Jan 2020.

The group made their way back down the corridor towards the blocked door, the handle was no longer moving but a sizeable dent had been made in the corpses head.

Lann removes the corpse quietly and cass enhancement. The moment the door is opened, he will cast Slow if the enemies are within range.

The door slowly opened and Lann peeked inside but the room was empty, even the dead bodies were gone.

The door at the far end of the room that the head priest had escaped through stood open.

“Shall we proceed on and enter into a possible ambush? Maybe we can use the bodies as shields,”Lann suggests
This message was last edited by the GM at 10:02, Thu 30 Jan 2020.

" What bodies? They're all gone."

Barlow snuck over to the open door to try and see past it without being spotted.

OOC:

21:20, Today: Barlow Greencap rolled 11 using 2d10.  Perception.

21:20, Today: Barlow Greencap rolled 14 using 2d10.  Stealth.

Barlow was able to determine that a corridor ran on from the door some 10m before opening out into a large room.  As far as he could determine no one had heard him.

Mammons lantern was currently the only real light source.

In reply to Drummond Gilrow (msg # 285):

“The one I am holding on to. I meant body in the singular sorry,” Lann says holding the the corpse he took from outside

Drummond frowned, " I think your actual shield would be more useful...but up to you."

Barlow steeled himself and slipped through the door moving down the corridor towards the large room.

OOC:


09:05, Today: Barlow Greencap rolled 11 using 2d10.  Perception.
09:05, Today: Barlow Greencap rolled 18 using 2d10.  Stealth. Crap.

As Barlow drew near the opening into the other room he stepped on a loose piece of stone sending it skittering across the ground...

There was silence from the darkness beyond.

Mammon gasped as Barlow made too much noise, she froze in place for a moment but when nothing happened immediately she urged Otto forward a little to see what his eyes could make out.

Otto crept silently through the door and up the short passage to wind about Barlows legs, then froze staring out into darkness before shooting back to Mammon and winding himself about her shoulders making soft mewing sounds.

Lann pauses, gesturing to Mammon to ask what the cat says
This message was last edited by the GM at 11:11, Sat 01 Feb 2020.

" Otto says that there is something within the large chamber, it smells of rot and leather...it does not breathe, it is quite large....it is watching Barlow."

“Only one monster? Maybe we can try to take it out while it’s distracted by Barlow. Is it an undead?” Lann whispers.
This message was last edited by the GM at 01:04, Sun 02 Feb 2020.

Mammon shrugged, " Maybe? Not really my area of expertise I'm afraid."

" So we're using Barlow as bait? He won't like that."

“No we can charge in rescue him or ask Otto to ask him retreat,” Lann says

" I don't think Barlow speaks...uh...cat.", Mammon grinned.

"Erm...i meant nudge him out. Or let's charge in, Lann says softly to Mammon and Drummond. Or any other idea?"
This message was last edited by the GM at 05:07, Wed 05 Feb 2020.

" Fine.", said Drummond.

" You only live once."

With that he grabbed the lantern from Mammon and charged straight through the door and past Barlow into the cavern beyond, planting the lantern on the ground as he came to a halt 5m in.

As Drummonds lantern light illuminated the cavern both he and Barlow could make out a huge rounded chamber with dozens of sturdy wooden doors lining the walls.

At the centre of the chamber was a huge creature swaying in place, ( Both Barlow and Mammon recognise it from old tales as a jötunn or frost giant) it was silent but its eyes fixed upon Drummond.

A great chain was affixed about its leg to an iron pillar driven down into the centre of the room....it was not breathing and looked very, very dead.

A pile of stones lay arrayed about the base of the pillar...

Lann is cautious as he has encountered many undead in this place and the words of Mammon came to mind. He unslings his bow and fires an arrow at the giant, hoping a hit will wake the beast.

"The stones may be some pentacle? milady do you know of anything like this in your studies?"he asks Mammon politely.
This message was last edited by the GM at 02:30, Thu 06 Feb 2020.

As the arrow sank harmlessly into the leather apron it wore the dead giant moved its gaze from Drummond to Lann and reaching down picks up a rock and throws it at him.

The rock hit him in the chest and sent him crashing backwards.

The giant reached for another stone....

OOC:


15:15, Today: GM, for the NPC Dead Giant, rolled 6 using 1d4+2.  ABR. -4 hps to Lann.

15:14, Today: GM, for the NPC Dead Giant, rolled 13 using 1d20.  ATT 19 - MODS 2.

15:11, Today: GM, on behalf of Toirneach Lann, rolled 19 using 1d20.  ATT 20 - MODS 2.

And now we're in combat.

" Yeah...not a pentagram..."

Mammon ducked back through the door...

Barlow suddenly realised how exposed he was and pressed himself against the wall, he raised his spear but did not throw it just yet.

" Should we just run for a door?"

Drummond drew both his daggers then looked back at Lann, " We doing this?"

"Wow i was right! Attack!" Lann attacks with his magical blade.

OOC: Lets split his defence. Undead! Damn. or since it is ties maybe we can erm... pelt it with arrows? hehehe
This message was last edited by the GM at 11:40, Fri 07 Feb 2020.

Lann and Drummond charged in to attack the dead giant, but neither could penetrate the reinforced leather of it boots and apron.

Barlow threw his spear but it missed the behemoth, its swing in retaliation was telegraphed and Lann easily ducked under it.

Mammon hung back considering her options.






OOC:

18:04, Today: GM, for the NPC Holgabrudr, rolled 10 using 1d20.  ATT 19 - DEF 15.

17:57, Today: Secret Roll: GM (bulya) removed 1 roll(s) from the log.

17:56, Today: GM, on behalf of Barlow Greencap, rolled 18 using 1d20.

17:55, Today: GM, on behalf of Toirneach Lann, rolled 3 using 1d8+2.  ABR.

17:54, Today: GM, on behalf of Toirneach Lann, rolled 5 using 1d20.  ATT 21 - DEF 6. .

17:50, Today: GM, on behalf of Drummond Gilrow, rolled 18 using 1d20.  ATT 19- DEF 5.

Lann continues to strike, cursing
This message had punctuation tweaked by the GM at 21:40, Sat 08 Feb 2020.