Urrun does significant damage to the
statue, yet it remains standing
[private to Narrator:5 hp left out of 25,goes down at -25]

Stenet hangs back two yards, giving Urrun and Hograth room to fight, but ready to move in and defend them if one should fall...


OOC:  Wait Manuever, if either Urrun or Hograth falls, Move over them.

Narrator:

the path is 2 yards wide.

/thumbsup.jpg

In reply to Stenet Fjall (msg # 2):

Hograths attack from msg #960?

In reply to Hograth Podkarmen (msg # 3):

sorry, accounting for damage. you cleaved into its leg but did not cripple it.

As this thing still faces Hograth, Urrun continues to attack it's neck


[Private to GM:   12:12, Today: Urrun rolled 14 using 3d6.  Determined Attack - Neck.  Sill 16 -5 for called shot, +4 for determined and more for from behind. A hit!
12:13, Today: Urrun rolled 16 cutting using 2d6+4.  Axe Damage.]

In reply to Urrun (msg # 5):

Hograth again gets ready to dodge the expected attacks from the Gliave and birdcage, striking again at the creatures leg.

[Private to GM: Dodge 11 without shield, 14 with sheild, rolled 7 and 9. Effective skill with axe: 18, rolled 7 to hit leg, 9 cut damage]

In reply to Hograth Podkarmen (msg # 6):

the statue, which is homogenous and lacking several vital areas takes a considerable amunt of damage, and looks battered.

it swings and stabs past Hograth,  just missing him!

"Smash it's legs!  If it falls we can retreat from it and it can't keep up."

Stenet waits, prepared to step in over a fallen comrade and defend them...


OOC:  Wait, Move and Attack if either Urrun or Hograth falls.

He finally gets it... He adjusts and swings a determined attack with his axe, at the same spot on it's leg that Hograth is swinging at.


[Private to GM:   09:04, Today: Urrun rolled 5 using 3d6.  Determined Attack - Leg.  Skill is 16 +4 for determined, + for being behind means no defense again; should trigger a Crit for being 10 underskill ? Also ends this story pause? ;-)
09:05, Today: Urrun rolled 15 using 2d6+4.  Axe Damage.]

In reply to Urrun (msg # 9):

makea crit effect roll- it just might be the end, or close to it!

Nah ...  09:37, Today: Urrun rolled 10 using 3d6.  Crit effect.

the statue is partially split, but still standing [private to Narrator: -17 hp]

it turns to stab at Urrun, doing 6 points impaling before DR!

In reply to fountain statue (msg # 12):

Armor is DR 3 vs Impaling and he has DR1 as well,so 2 [4] Impaling...  and Urrun backs away.

OOC:  Not sure if "falling back" would count under "if an ally falls"... for Stenet's Wait condition.  If so, he Moves into the spot Urrun was in and attacks, if not, I'll get to it next turn.

In reply to Stenet Fjall (msg # 14):

Urrun circled behind the statue and is retreating the way it came. you are good to go

In reply to Narrator (msg # 15):

No longer targeted, Hograth strikes twice (rapid strike) aiming at the creature in general so he could dodge if need be...

[Private to GM: Rapid strike, -6 to attack, effective skill 12, rolled 10 and 12 to hold, rolled 10 and 13 damage. Random hit location 9 both times....]

Stenet jogs into the space Urrun cleared and takes a swing at the leg they'd been smashing...


OOC:  Move and Attack, Heroic Charge, 1 FP, Mighty Blows 1 FP.
13:26, Today: Stenet Fjall rolled 10 using 3d6.  Axe/Mace 18 (Axe Skill 18 -2 Hit Loc Leg + 2 Bless) . – [roll=1649611566.15729.257809]
13:44, Today: Stenet Fjall rolled 9 using 2d6+4.  Axe cutting damage, 2d6+2. – [roll=1649612648.50298.257809] (forgot Bless +2 for moment)
Sorry,. I momentarily forgot Heroic Charge exists.

In reply to Stenet Fjall (msg # 17):

as three attacks cut into it, the statue shatters into a pile of bronze chunks.

separate from these are the bronze birdcage and the dark bronze shortsword.

Urrun wa;ls painfully to Melchezidek, holding his wound  You fix please?

Stenet slips off his pack and starts stuffing bronze chunks into it, "Hograth, take the sword and cage and catch back up with the hare if you can, I'll follow in a moment."
This message was last edited by the player at 19:11, Mon 11 Apr 2022.

In reply to Stenet Fjall (msg # 20):

Melchizedek, who has been keeping up with the hare and tortoise, is very willing to heal Urrun when he catches up.

[Private to GM: Rolled skill, 3 FP heals 8 HP.]

In reply to Melchizidek (msg # 21):

Hograth stows his axe, grabs the sword and birdcage, stuffing them into his backpack as he races to catch up with Melchizedek, Urrun and the hare.

In reply to Hograth Podkarmen (msg # 22):

you might have to hold onto the cage, it is about a foot wide by 18 inches tall and hangs from  a large loop.

Melchizidek has the key.  the sword is orichalcum.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 23):

Is there a hook on his backpack he can hang the cage from?

In reply to Hograth Podkarmen (msg # 24):

with k ot tying you can rig something

Stenet spends no more than five to ten seconds scooping brass chunks into his pack, before discretion wins out over greed and he hustles after his comrades.

In reply to Stenet Fjall (msg # 26):

the tortoise is leading you further through holes in the hedge, bypassing larve sections of the maze.

suddenly,  they turn and push back the way they came...
"Snail!"

In reply to Narrator (msg # 27):

Unsuccessful at tying the knot[Private to GM: Rolled 2 under DX, knot tying at default], Hograth asks if they should fight the snail, handing the cage to Melchizedek...

In reply to Hograth Podkarmen (msg # 28):

a giant snail, its shell over a yard wide and high is heading toward you at a good clip!

In reply to racing snail (msg # 29):

Hograth readies his shield and axe to fight the thing! He is getting used to this...

In reply to Hograth Podkarmen (msg # 30):

the giant gastropod slows its advance. extending its eyestalks, as if evaluating the threat in front of it.

In reply to racing snail (msg # 31):

Hograth holds his ground, ready to defend his position but not moving forward to attack.

In reply to Hograth Podkarmen (msg # 32):

the hare calls out
"What are you waiting for? finish it or our agreement is void!"

"The agreement was to thwart the snail, the snail is currently thwarted, thus our arrangement stands.  However, if you explain what the snail wants that you need thwarted, we might be able to more permanently thwart it and then you can continue leading us to the tower at the center at the center of this maze."

In reply to Stenet Fjall (msg # 34):

"The snail wants to eat us."

In reply to Narrator (msg # 35):

"This is a carnivorous snail?"

"Well then little fae, keep leading us, don't pull any tricks, and we'll keep protecting you as we have been."

In reply to Hograth Podkarmen (msg # 36):

the gigantic gastropod opens its mouth to reveal a serrated tongue with teeth on three sides,  and starts to drive forward.

In reply to racing snail (msg # 38):

As the creature closes with Hograth, he attacks rapidly.

[Private to GM: Rapid Attack, 1 was 1 over, 2 was 5 under, 13 silver cut damage. Rolled dodge.]

He steps up beside Hograther and swings at the snails tongue.


[Private to GM:  16:40, Today: Urrun rolled 9 using 3d6.  Sword swing at tongue.  made by 5 ... you can decid if it his, hits close to or misses completely.
16:41, Today: Urrun rolled 9 using 2d6+3.  Sword damage.]

In reply to Urrun (msg # 40):

the snail immediately retracts into its shell (dodge roll) so your weapons cland into its shell, Hograth chipping at it, and Urrun lightly scratching the dense shell.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 41):

"While it is retracted, let's keep moving. I will watch it should it reappear!"

He remains ready should the snails head reappear...

[Private to GM: Readied attack on head, rolled 2 under skill to hit skull, rolled 8 cut damage should it appear!]

In reply to Hograth Podkarmen (msg # 42):

Melchizedek is keen to keep moving.

"Keep leading, hare. He has your back."

In reply to Hograth Podkarmen (msg # 42):

Snails don't quite have humanoid  anatomy, they are vermiform, and don't quite have brains in a recognizable location, without a physiology roll. going for face, eyes, mouth is all at +0.
This message was last edited by the GM at 15:58, Tue 03 May 2022.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 44):

Then eyes/face sounds about right. He is showing us his mouth if I understood correctly...

In reply to Hograth Podkarmen (msg # 45):

the snail remains in its massive shell for now...

"Hograth, let's switch, you take the lead with our guide, and I'll fall back and make sure the snail doesn't try to skirt around us and go for his fluffy little tail."

In reply to Stenet Fjall (msg # 47):

"Ok, if you want. Let's go, bunny!"

In reply to Hograth Podkarmen (msg # 48):

the Hare glares at you."These foul thi gs pursue my kind relentlessly. We are faster, but they move when we rest."

In reply to Narrator (msg # 49):

"While we are with you, it will have a lot .ore to worry about that you. Lead on, please."

In reply to Hograth Podkarmen (msg # 50):

the hare ducks as the tortoise moves through ayard square hole in the hedge, cutting through another path.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 51):

Melchizedek will follow him.

In reply to Melchizidek (msg # 52):

after cutting through the hedge. you follow by crouching or crawling, you are in another pathway.

Stenet takes up the rear.

In reply to Stenet Fjall (msg # 54):

With Hograth, who will also follow after all others have gone.

In reply to Hograth Podkarmen (msg # 55):

are you giving the snail your back, or backing through the hedge?

OOC:  Then who is staying with the Hare so it doesn't ditch us?

In reply to Stenet Fjall (msg # 57):

Mel is staying with the hare....

In reply to Melchizidek (msg # 58):

If the snail stays in the shell, yes, give him our back as we take off at full speed...otherwise smash him! I have a held action of smashing him should he stick his head out...
This message was last edited by the player at 01:55, Sat 14 May 2022.

In reply to Hograth Podkarmen (msg # 59):

that only works if you don't turn around

In reply to Narrator (msg # 60):

Orove out of range. So back away, then turn and catch up with the others.

In reply to Hograth Podkarmen (msg # 61):
npc'd

you all make it into another pathway lined with white gravel. The tower is much closer.

the flurry of action in the high heat costs everyone 1 fp.

In reply to Ginko Bitterpetal (msg # 62):

Can we access the tower directly from here?

In reply to Melchizidek (msg # 63):

npc'd
"No snails in sight, looks to be a left and a right to the courtyard."

In reply to Ginko Bitterpetal (msg # 64):

Mel leads the way...

Stenet just falls back to the rear again, to keep watch that the snail doesn't try to sneak up on them.

In reply to Stenet Fjall (msg # 66):

you make the left and the right, and are now in a large courtyard divided into 4  sections, with a circular tower in the center. the rosebushesin the formsl garden sections have grown wild, and spill over to the tower, which is wrapped in the thorny vines.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 67):

Can we enter the tower?

In reply to Hograth Podkarmen (msg # 68):

the entrance is around the back...

In reply to Narrator (msg # 69):

Hograth heads back there, asking the hare to lead the way.

In reply to Hograth Podkarmen (msg # 70):


"The deal was to get you to the tower, not to get you inside. That is your own lookout. We are done. Good Day!"

In reply to Narrator (msg # 71):

"Ok, that was our deal. Good luck with the snail now."

He attempts to get around the tower to find entrance.

In reply to Hograth Podkarmen (msg # 72):

are you going clockwise or widdershins?

In reply to Narrator (msg # 73):

Everyone goes clockwise. Let's go widdershins.

In reply to Hograth Podkarmen (msg # 74):

as you round the tower, I ask

does anybody have hidden lore: faerie?

or theology (goblin) defaults to Theology-3
This message was last edited by the GM at 16:29, Thu 26 May 2022.

OOC:  Stenet has no clue that going widdershins will only get you lost in Fairy...
14:53, Today: Stenet Fjall rolled 14 using 3d6.  Theology 8 (Skill 11 -3 Goblin Mythos). – [roll=1653591182.94974.257809]

In reply to Narrator (msg # 75):

Hograth might have a clue...just from his general theological knowledge.

[Private to GM: Both Hograth a d Melchizedek rolled 4 under theology. Neither has the specific specialisations mentioned though.]

In reply to Hograth Podkarmen (msg # 77):

the goblin fae lord, the Erl King is master of the wild hunt, and may be an aspect of the barbarian god Woden. He rides under the full moon.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 78):

Maybe I am thicker than my character, but how is this relevant to us?

In reply to Hograth Podkarmen (msg # 79):

it is the tower of the Erl king you have asked to be led to, it may be possible that entrance here or fi ding the King at court is sensitive to the phase of the moon

OOC:  Either way don't think it matters much right now, let's just keep circling looking for the door.  If the Erl King is gone (good for us) we can then leave this hedge maze and go hunting infernals.  If he isn't... we, well, we'll have some esplainin to do...

In reply to Stenet Fjall (msg # 81):

on your first circuit. there is no sign of the door, but you are syre there is one...

In reply to Narrator (msg # 82):

Can we do another circuit more carefully, also looking at accessible windows?

In reply to Hograth Podkarmen (msg # 83):

you make another circuit, noticing some windows high up in the vine covered tower

In reply to Narrator (msg # 84):

How high up? Do the vines look strong enough to hold an encumbered dwarf?

In reply to Hograth Podkarmen (msg # 85):

The vines are almost as ancient as the tower itself, but they are at least ten yards up

In reply to Narrator (msg # 86):

Anyone have rope for a fairy to tie off?

"It has imp chew marks on it, but it should still hold."  Stenet begins uncoiling his rope, the one last used to hog tie and gag the doom child.

In reply to Stenet Fjall (msg # 88):

"Great. Now who can we get to tie it there?"

In reply to Hograth Podkarmen (msg # 89):

npc'd
"I can fly that up... the only question I have is whose directions have we been following?"

He points at the stubby dwarf.

In reply to Urrun (msg # 91):

"Why is that a question now? The Haderaum sent us to ensure there was no demonic influence here."

In reply to Hograth Podkarmen (msg # 92):

"That isn't what I mean, and my instructions came from The Lady herself.
You have ordersfrom the Hadereum.
We have been listening to a Phooka, to fish, birds, hares and tortoises-all fey or magical creatures. Here we are at the Erl King's tower in the middle of a garden maze. What did we come here to find?"
This message was last edited by the GM at 20:48, Mon 30 May 2022.

"Gotta say, despite my standard judgement, the pixie is asking a good question."

In reply to Stenet Fjall (msg # 94):

"Not sure I see the point. We have come here to find the Earl, so we have been listening to his subjects."

"I think what the pixie means is, we're here to hunt demons, not break into the local ruler's house.  It would be best if we had their blessing.. but do we need it?  Or might our time be best served following Urrun's nose"

In reply to Stenet Fjall (msg # 96):

"With all due respect to Urruns very capable nose, would not the local ruler know if there was any demonic activity better than Urruns nose?"

"The last one didn't."

In reply to Stenet Fjall (msg # 98):

"True, but they were appreciative of us checking in with them before charging around and causing damage as we fought demons."

"How will breaking into this tower help ingratiate us to the local leadership?  We should send the pixie up to check if anyone is in, they might just open the front the door."

In reply to Stenet Fjall (msg # 100):

He pauses before answering.

"Perhaps. Could you try, little one?"

In reply to Hograth Podkarmen (msg # 101):

"sure, I will check..." he flies up

In reply to Ginko Bitterpetal (msg # 102):
npc'd
The pixie flies upthe side of the spire and comes to an open window A woman leans out. You can barely make out her features, but she appears to be stunning... the pixie is dumbstruck

In reply to Ginko Bitterpetal (msg # 103):

Assuming Mel can see her, he will call out.

"Well hello there. We are here to see the Lord of these realms. Can you grant us entry?"

In reply to Melchizidek (msg # 104):

"I cannot allow anyone in while my uncle is out. I simply must not, without a doubt."

In reply to Summer Nymph (msg # 105):

"I am Melchizedek. Can you tell us if there is any demonic activity in the realm that we can help with, lovely lady?"

In reply to Melchizidek (msg # 106):

"This is not a welcome place for visitors from beyond time and space. They belong below and should not rise. If any are here, t'would be a surprise."

In reply to Summer Nymph (msg # 107):

"Agreed. And yet we believe some may have made the journey."

In reply to Melchizidek (msg # 108):

npc'd

"Where did she say they were from?"

In reply to Ginko Bitterpetal (msg # 109):

"Be they demons or other things, why does it matter if they are not from here?"

In reply to Melchizidek (msg # 110):

"You were sent to quash demonic incursion... that means that what you seek isn't local."

In reply to Ginko Bitterpetal (msg # 111):

"Yes, and demons are from the planes of Hell and are definitely not local. She is saying that those from beyond time and space are not welcome, but as far as I know demons are from other planes within time. So really, she has not answered my question, so what point are you making?"

In reply to Melchizidek (msg # 112):

you are finding it hard to be angry with her,as she is trancendentally beautiful and seems to be very earnest as to what she is telling you,and given that she is locked in s tower, might be limited in her knowledge.

Stenet shouts up at her, "Lady, while your Uncle is out, do you have authority here?  We seek permission to hunt demons in these lands, may we have your blessing on our hunt?"

In reply to Narrator (msg # 113):

Naturally. In is our own pixie talking riddles that is frustrating him...

In reply to Stenet Fjall (msg # 114):

"It cannot be wrong to banish what does not belong. Damage not the hedge, t'would drive my nuncle to the edge."

Ooohh, Think we did bad thing... many times. Need to go!

Stenet had opened his mouth to speak and heard Urrun.  He pauses, then shouts up to the Nymph, "Thank you my lady, we'll on that hunt now!"

He turns and starts to make "ushering people back towards the opening" gestures, and sotto voces "Okay Hograth?  We got permission, let's just get out of this maze now, before the Lord returns and it becomes a death trap."

In reply to Stenet Fjall (msg # 118):

"Milady, is there a way to leave without passing through the maze? If not, how do we find our way through the maze without a guide?"

In reply to Melchizidek (msg # 119):

"Open your eyes wide?, above you flies a guide."

In reply to Summer Nymph (msg # 120):

"But the maze shifts and changes. Sight alone is not reliable."

Follow Pixie?

In reply to Urrun (msg # 122):

"Where to? just out?"

Yes, or in trouble. Not want trouble.

In reply to Urrun (msg # 124):

"Has she said how to negotiate the shifty maze, or some crap answer about looking and ignoring the fact that the maze shifts?"

In reply to Ginko Bitterpetal (msg # 123):

"Look I would bet that most of the fey creatures we spoke with can't quite tell a direct lie, so something one of them told us is a probable clue about where the infernal visitors might be."

In reply to Ginko Bitterpetal (msg # 126):

"That may be true, but how do we understand their riddles and get to them? "

In reply to Hograth Podkarmen (msg # 127):

"We followed what thet said to do. What did they say not to do?"

"Neither are getting us out of the hedge.  Focus, lead the way out, then we'll figure out how to track down demons or cultists."

In reply to Stenet Fjall (msg # 129):

No longer tied to the urgency of getting to the tower, and discovering that the holesin the hedge used by the hare are gone,Ginko leads you leisurely out of the maze,stopping first by the fountain where the bronze statue was fought.

In reply to Ginko Bitterpetal (msg # 130):

Hograth is happy to be out of the hedge...

In reply to Hograth Podkarmen (msg # 131):

Melchizedek looks around the fountain to see if he missed anything.

"Don't think I'd drink from the fountain despite what the fish said.  I bet we pissed someone off already."

In reply to Melchizidek (msg # 132):

the broken bits of the bronze statue that are scattered about look a little odd...

In reply to Narrator (msg # 134):

What should I roll to recognise why they are odd? Start collecting them...

In reply to Melchizidek (msg # 135):

Hograth will start collecting them as well, trying to evaluate if they are valuable.

Stenet stands guard, his stance suggests he finds this highly suspicious and expects an ambush.  (Besides he has a pack over flowing with broken statue pieces already and can't carry anymore).

Why we wait, need go before pieces become more trouble.

"I couldn't agree more Urrun."  Stenet gives him a nod, clearly finding the gnoll's caution to be well-founded.
This message was last updated by the player at 15:29, Fri 01 July 2022.

In reply to Stenet Fjall (msg # 139):

"Yeah, we should. Gather it up and move on out!"

In reply to Urrun (msg # 138):

The bronze is roughly worth its weight in copper, but is saleable at 40% of that.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 141):

Still, greedy, gather up what we can quickly and move on, holding the large pieces which would be dropped if trouble is seen.

In reply to Hograth Podkarmen (msg # 142):

"I can see the way back to the second clearing... the one with the well."

In reply to Ginko Bitterpetal (msg # 143):

"Let's head back there now, then out the portal to get rid of the dead weight we have."

In reply to Hograth Podkarmen (msg # 144):

the pixie guides you on your way...make an iq roll as you enter the clearing.

He is clueless

OOC:  13:18, Today: Stenet Fjall rolled 7 using 3d6.  IQ 12. – [roll=1657127898.31351.257809]

In reply to Stenet Fjall (msg # 147):

The talking fish had said to avoid the well...

In reply to Narrator (msg # 148):

"Let's avoid the well and keep going."

Stenet nods, "The fish hasn't led us astray yet."
This message was last edited by the player at 01:03, Thu 07 July 2022.

In reply to Stenet Fjall (msg # 150):

"But why avoid the well?"
This message had punctuation tweaked by the GM at 17:40, Sun 10 July 2022.

In reply to Ginko Bitterpetal (msg # 151):

"Advice of a local. You can find out why if you really want to...but it might be wiser not to."

In reply to Hograth Podkarmen (msg # 152):

"From a local fey creature. our kind have our own motives."

In reply to Ginko Bitterpetal (msg # 153):

"So I have noticed. But unless it detects as evil, we will respect that."

Not being able to detect that himself, he prepares leave.

In reply to Hograth Podkarmen (msg # 154):

where is everyone heading?

I uz headin' out, but ever-one else is lollygagging about.

OOC:  Exitward if that's where our flitting scout leads us.

In reply to Stenet Fjall (msg # 157):

Yeah, out of maze and back to the gate to unload.

In reply to Hograth Podkarmen (msg # 158):

As you wish."

you are led back to the fountainwith the fish...

In reply to Ginko Bitterpetal (msg # 159):

"How is this out of the maze?"

"It's on the way, probably have to pass by the same landmarks coming and going," Stenet sidles up next to the fountain, "Hey fish, you in?  Franc for your thoughts."


If the fish shows up he asks, he'll ask, "That well you warned us off from, what makes it dangerous?  We're hunting dangerous things so before we leave completely, I'm wondering if you've got imps in the reservoir."

In reply to Stenet Fjall (msg # 161):

the fish surfaces as the coin is tossed.
"The well is deep and full of danger. The water stinks of sulfur I have never been, nor would I dive."

In reply to Narrator (msg # 162):

Sigh.

"That sounds like trouble we should deal with. But we cannot breath underwater, so I would not dive either. Perhaps we can draw it out with our resident demonbait... Melchizedek?"

In reply to Hograth Podkarmen (msg # 163):

"It had better come out, because I am not going into a deep, dark place I cannot breathe. Is there. magic the shape of destroy the water, shaping it to get it out of the well?"

In reply to Melchizidek (msg # 164):

"Let's go look, anyway. Little one, please lead us back to the well in question."

He will follow the directions back to the well that is tainted.

In reply to Hograth Podkarmen (msg # 165):


Ginko leads you over toward where the well was seen.

The old stone well is coated with dead thorny vines, and its metal fittings are all corroded.
A chain hangs from a winch, and dangles downward into the depths.

In reply to Ginko Bitterpetal (msg # 166):

Is water visible?

In reply to Hograth Podkarmen (msg # 167):

leaning over to look in, you can see a little bit of light reflecting on the surface some 6 yards down  and catch a whiff of sulphur.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 168):

"Not good. Since I don't breath under water, I am not going down there. Can anyone destroy the water? Any other suggestions?"

"Haul up the chain and see what it's attached to."

In reply to Stenet Fjall (msg # 170):

"Ok. That is one idea."

Hograth begins to haul up the chain...

In reply to Hograth Podkarmen (msg # 171):

in the bucket is a black oily liquid that smells of sulpher and naptha.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 172):

What would we roll to identify it?

[Private to GM: Hograth rolled a 6 to identify it. IQ/Hidden Lore (demons) at 12, Theology at 11.]
This message was last edited by the player at 20:22, Mon 25 July 2022.

In reply to Hograth Podkarmen (msg # 173):

alchemy would be the best bet. IQ-6

In reply to Narrator (msg # 174):

Then we go with IQ-6, which Hograth rolled...

In reply to Hograth Podkarmen (msg # 175):

the water itself is sulphurous and mildly acidic, floating on top of it is a sludgy material that looks like it would burn

In reply to Narrator (msg # 176):

"Melchizedek, would you please see if this stuff burns?"

In reply to Hograth Podkarmen (msg # 177):

Melchizedek will use a sunbolt to test if it is flammable...the water in the bucket that is.

[Private to GM: Rolled 8 under skill, cast sunbolt.]

In reply to Melchizidek (msg # 178):

there is a blast of flame from the bucket, like alchemical fire...

In reply to Narrator (msg # 179):

Melchizedek smiles and recasts sunbolt. Or tries to, but gets it badly wrong...

[Private to GM: Sunbolt, cast, rolled 18, critical failure, rolled 11 on critical failure, weirdness magnetic...]

In reply to Melchizidek (msg # 180):

the sunbolt goes off in his face, blinding him like a Flash spell. Everyone else make a DX roll to blink in time or be blinded also.

He growns and covers his eyes...

[Private to GM: 12:45, Today: Urrun rolled 15 using 3d6.  DX.  missed by 1]

In reply to Urrun (msg # 182):

Hograth barely blinked in time...

[Private to GM: Rolled DX...]

"That went well...

In reply to Hograth Podkarmen (msg # 183):

Melchizedek instinctively stepped back, away from the bucket and the well, but it did no good.

Stenet had turned to make nothing was sneaking up on them when Melchizadek's Sunbolt flashed everyone.


OOC:  17:41, Today: Stenet Fjall rolled 11 using 3d6.  DX 15 (DX 13 +2 Blessed) to avoid being Blinded.

In reply to Stenet Fjall (msg # 185):

"Ho snails!"

In reply to Ginko Bitterpetal (msg # 186):

as some of you recover from the miscast sunbolt, you can hear the faint rattle of gravel coming from several directions

In reply to racing snail (msg # 187):

"Sounds like we got someones attention...I will watch the well..."

He steps back from the well, watching it closely.

In reply to Hograth Podkarmen (msg # 188):

Melchizedek tries to recover, moving to behind Hograths voice if he cannot yet see...

In reply to Melchizidek (msg # 189):

it may be a little bit before Mel can see...


four of the gargantuan snails are approaching through the 4 exits from this clearing.

In reply to racing snail (msg # 190):

"What is it?"

"Snails? Defending evil, or come to join us in removing it? Are they corrupted?"
This message was last edited by the player at 21:02, Thu 04 Aug 2022.

"We'll know soon enough," Stenet steps over next to the dazed priest, prepared to defend him if the snails attack.  "Don't move too much," he mutters just loud enough for Melchizedek to hear.


OOC:  Wait, Attacking a snail as soon as it's in Reach, if they charge.

He is a bit confused by these things, and he is still seeing spots.

In reply to Urrun (msg # 193):

motivated by hunger and a drive to reproduce, the snails are rapidly approaching, and looking to clear any moving thing before hooking up

In reply to racing snail (msg # 194):

Hograth is unsure of the motivation, but doubts it can be good.

OOC: How could we possibly identify the motivations of hunger and reproduction in giant snails? I am assuming it would just seem hostile to us, as we are not snails, though we may be food?

As such, he moves to hit the closest snails head with his axe...

[Private to GM: Rolled a natural 4, so critical hit, rolled 7 for effect, 9 cut damage. Rolled 5 under dodge with shield.]

Urrun unshethes his axe and prepares to use it.
This message was last edited by the player at 01:44, Tue 09 Aug 2022.

In reply to Hograth Podkarmen (msg # 195):

Hograth cleaves into the soft part of the snail. spattering goo across the gravel

Urrun will strike at any exposed portion of the snail, or it's front shell if nothing else is exposed.

[Private to GM: 11:47, Today: Urrun rolled 10 using 3d6.  Axe swing.  by 6
11:47, Today: Urrun rolled 7 using 2d6+4 cutting.  Axe Damage.]

In reply to racing snail (msg # 197):

Does it kill it? Any response from the others?

In reply to Hograth Podkarmen (msg # 199):

the first one, gravely wounded, re t racrs into its shell.

Urrun strikes at another, wounding it badly.

the remaining snails advance

In reply to racing snail (msg # 200):

Sheild still up, Hograth swings at the skull of the next snail, in as much as they have skulls...

[Private to GM: Rolled 2 under skill modified for hit location to hit, 10 cut damage to'skull', x4 dam if not dodged. Rolled 2 under dodge with Shield.]

He takes another whack at the one he had just hit.

[Private to GM: 15:10, Today: Urrun rolled 14 using 3d6.  Axe swing  by 2
15:10, Today: Urrun rolled 13 using 2d6+4.  Axe Damage.]

In reply to Urrun (msg # 202):

Can Mel see yet?

In reply to Melchizidek (msg # 203):

Mel needs a HT roll now to recover.

the two chopped up snails collapse, although they are vermiform (sort of) and do not quite have skulls or brains except in a linear fashion.   Damage is still enough to kill.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 204):

He is not doing well...

[Private to GM: Rolled 14, HT 12, has fit, but I don't think that is enough...]

Stenet remains beside the still blinded cleric.

In reply to Stenet Fjall (msg # 206):

Hograth continues to lash out at the incoming snails, but finding no brain, he tries for a decapitation attack, hitting the neck...

[Private to GM: Rolled 5 to attack, 5 cut damage to neck (normally x2), rolled 5 under dodge, so seems a day of 5s...]

He doesn't think in such fancy  terms, he just heads over to smash another one a couple of licks.

[Private to GM: 19:10, Today: Urrun rolled 8 using 3d6.  Axe swing  by 8
19:10, Today: Urrun rolled 11 using 2d6+4.  Axe Damage..]

In reply to Hograth Podkarmen (msg # 207):

Hograth's snail retracts into the heavy shell, Urrun's takes the hit but keeps on trucking, tajes a bite but misses.

Urrun is surprised by the things trying to bite him, he whacks it again , making sure to dodge this time.

[Private to GM: 10:10, Today: Urrun rolled 8 using 3d6.  Axe swing.  by 8
10:11, Today: Urrun rolled 12 using 2d6+4.  Axe Damage.
10:11, Today: Urrun rolled 10 using 3d6.  Dodge.  missed by 1 ]

In reply to Urrun (msg # 210):

Urrun's snail collapses,its soft parts flooping to the side as the shell begins to tilt to one side...

In reply to racing snail (msg # 211):

Hograth looks around...all snails retreated or dead? How many in the shell, and how many dead or dying? Kill any outside of the shell in doubt.

In reply to Hograth Podkarmen (msg # 212):

one dead,one gravely wounded in the shell,and two others approaching

He heads over to greet the next one.

[Private to GM: 12:34, Today: Urrun rolled 9 using 3d6.  Axe swing. by 7
12:35, Today: Urrun rolled 12 using 2d6+4.  Axe Damage.
12:34, Today: Urrun rolled 11 using 3d6.  Dodge.  missed by two]

In reply to Urrun (msg # 214):

Are you sure? Hograth has hit three (messages #195, #201, #207), and Urrun hit one two.

Mel failed another HT...[Private to GM: Rolled 13, 1 more than last time...]
This message was last edited by the player at 22:26, Wed 17 Aug 2022.

Urrun two... Msgs 210 and 202

maybe they just keep on coming?

In reply to Urrun (msg # 216):

correctionthat should. e all at this point, three down, one shelled

In reply to Narrator (msg # 217):

Hograth will stay on gaurd until Melchizedek recovers.

"Should we throw this thing down the well?"

In reply to Hograth Podkarmen (msg # 218):

it looks to weigh over 500 lbs

No, We leave... now.

In reply to Urrun (msg # 220):

"Dealing with the infernal is why we are here..."

Has our priest recovered yet?

In reply to Hograth Podkarmen (msg # 221):

been waiting on HT rolls. should have had 3 chances so far

In reply to Narrator (msg # 222):

Ah, had rolled 2 failures. Succeed by 1 on the third try!

In reply to Melchizidek (msg # 223):

so,with clear eyes you see: three dad snails and one within its shell. The well remains untouched.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 224):

Melchizedek shakes his head, looking around at the snail's.

"I am sorry, that attempt to light up the well went badly. Please turn around and let me try that again."

He prays to Helious, but waits for everyone to look away from him before he recasts the spell sunbolt.

[Private to GM: Much better, 9 under skill this time.]

In reply to Melchizidek (msg # 225):

Hograth steps between Melchizedek and the well, looking at the well when the warning is given.

Urrun looks away and covers his eyes.

In reply to Melchizidek (msg # 225):

this time ou have a fistful of sunlight ready to be launched.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 228):

"That worked. Should I see what shooting the well water achieves?"

"Aye, but with us standing at ready."  Stenet moves up next to the well, prepared for demons to pop out.

In reply to Stenet Fjall (msg # 230):

Hograth does likewise, on the other side of the priest, asking Urrun to watch their backs.

In reply to Hograth Podkarmen (msg # 231):

Melchizedek waits until everyone is in position, then he approaches the well and looks down, firing his sunbolt at the surface of the water or any creature he sees.

[Private to GM: Rolled 2 under skill to hit, 3 damage ]

In reply to Melchizidek (msg # 232):

there is a small explosion as the surface of the liquid in the well erupts with green flames.

Urrun keeps  sensing around them and out further.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 233):

Melchizedek recasts Sunbolt as he observes the results...

[Private to GM: Rolled a natural 5, 10 under skill to recast sunbolt. Will that enable it to do up to my level of PI dice damage for free?]

In reply to Melchizidek (msg # 235):

for a skill of 17, up to 6 is a crit. roll for weirdness
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:25, Fri 26 Aug 2022.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 236):

This seems like a regulatory weird success.. [Private to GM: Rolled 9 for weirdness.]

In reply to Melchizidek (msg # 237):

you get the initial dice for free... but it manifests as a small flaming chariot that descends from the sky into the palm of your hand.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 238):

To be clear, the initial dice is up to your level of magery, or Power investiture?

In reply to Melchizidek (msg # 239):

yes. typically it costs energy above 1die of damage. this time you have the lot.

In reply to Melchizidek (msg # 239):

Ok, thank you. So holding a 4d glowing hand for now.

In reply to Melchizidek (msg # 241):

Hograth looks down at the burning waters below.

In reply to Hograth Podkarmen (msg # 242):

it is like looking into a blue green furnace! it may burn for a few minutes...

In reply to Narrator (msg # 243):

Hograth will stay well out of the fumes, but will endeavour to see what is going on down there.

Just standing beside the well, waiting for demons to pop out...

In reply to Stenet Fjall (msg # 245):

aftera minutes long conflagration, the smoke clears and you can see clear water, beliw which you see a ladder descending to a redly lit opening.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 246):

Hograth is not keen, but can see no way to avoid climbing down the ladder. Is there a landing of some sort at the opening?

OOC:  Is the ladder or below the water?

In reply to Stenet Fjall (msg # 248):

the ladder is below the water...

In reply to Narrator (msg # 249):

Wait, do I need to go under water to get to the opening? Not doing that...not getting wet! I was under the impression I do not need to get wet to enter the opening.

In reply to Hograth Podkarmen (msg # 250):

the water seems odd... loos to be only a foot or so deep...

In reply to Narrator (msg # 251):

But do I need to get wet to get to the opening?

In reply to Hograth Podkarmen (msg # 252):

it looks as though you might.

"Should we yry dropping something in?"

In reply to Ginko Bitterpetal (msg # 253):

Then Hograth has no plans to go down there.

"[Private to GM: We tried dropping a stone and some fire there, and we showed them bait, our celestial. You can drop something else in if you want, but perhaps we should look at sealing it over.]"

"That's where the demons are, then that's where we go."

Stenet duffs his shield, setting it aside, then his framepack.  He uncoils his rope from it and ties one end around his waist, then looks around to see what he can tie the other side to.

In reply to Stenet Fjall (msg # 255):

Hograth frowns, and takes the other end of the rope, tying it to his waist.

"Fine then. I will take one end, and you take the other. Once you are down, everyone else can travel down the rope, and I will bring up the rear."

He stows his axe and unreadies the shield, cocking and loading his crossbow instead, trying to decide between the silver and regular bolt. He finally goes for the silver one.

Urrun's ears perk up and he looks back to see what silliness these human's are up to now. One of the short squatty ones looks to be getting a length of rope out.

In reply to Urrun (msg # 257):

Stenet descends into the well, and splashes into the water... and immediately feels like he is upside down

In reply to Narrator (msg # 258):

Hograth watches closely, crossbow ready with silver bolt.

Stenet holds his breath and tries to get his bearings, then once he's figured out what is up and what is down, he climbs the ladder to the opening...

OCC: 17:54, Today: Stenet Fjall rolled 12 using 3d6.  Swimming 12 (default 10+2 Blesing).

In reply to Stenet Fjall (msg # 260):

the rest of you can see Stenet's feet as he climbs the ladder up?down? headfirst toward the bloodted sky at the bottom of the well.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 261):

Hograth is very concerned, but since he does not seem to be in trouble, he just looks around...

He continues to look around for any signs of trouble as asked.

In reply to Urrun (msg # 263):

<sigh> i really do t want to open another thread....

[private to Stenet Fjall:as you climb to the top of the well, you can see the area around you is desolate. the sky is a gloomy blood red, and you can see the smoke of many fires as well as numerous small flames... Something red and black and snail like is navigating its way through the ash.  skeletal pixies fly overhead, and in the distance is a rui ed tower...]

In reply to Narrator (msg # 264):

OOC - You want us all to fall after Stenet? We can do that. I'll even help Hograth down.

In reply to Urrun (msg # 265):

Hograth is attached to Stenets rope. We just need the all clear signal...

Stenet climbs down a few rungs, unties the rope from himself, then ties it to the rung of the ladder.  Then he climbs down and gently re-enters the water flipping about to resurface on the Autumn side.

He calls up, "The surface of the water is a portal to some infernal realm.  Lower my pack and shield using the chain."

In reply to Stenet Fjall (msg # 267):

"Hmmf. Is is safe to jump through then?"

He unties himself from the rope and picks up Stenets pack.
This message was last edited by the player at 02:29, Sat 17 Sept 2022.

In reply to Hograth Podkarmen (msg # 268):

Melchizadek wonders if there is a way to close the portal...

What would he roll to know?

"Hograth, tie the rope off to something up there."

In reply to Stenet Fjall (msg # 270):

Hograth looks for something that looks solid and is not too obvious.

In reply to Hograth Podkarmen (msg # 271):

there are a pair of posts that support the rod the bucket is tied to (with rotten looking cord) the posts look sturdy

In reply to Narrator (msg # 272):

Then Hograth will tie it off to the post, then head down with his and Stenets bags.

In reply to Hograth Podkarmen (msg # 273):

you splash into the water and immediately feel upside-down... uon clibing up the ladder you find yourself dry

He looks at Melchizadek  You gonna go down?

"Melchizidek , bring down my shield would you?"

In reply to Stenet Fjall (msg # 276):

Melchizedek nods.

"Just waiting for the heavy hitters to go down first."

He takes the shield and heads down the well.

In reply to Melchizidek (msg # 277):

Hograth will head through and up the ladder, dropping the other pack at the top as he looks around, getting his axe and sheild ready.

Urrun stows his gear for the climb, but he is very  unhappy about this plan.

In reply to Urrun (msg # 279):

the sky is a gloomy red with the smoke of many small fires from an ash filled wasteland.

a massive red and black snail with iron scales moves through the ash in the distance, and skeletal pixies flit about above you.

Holding on Melchezidk.

In reply to Urrun (msg # 281):

"We need to close this portal. Suggestions?"

Who would know how to? What skill would suit?

"Is this hell?  Did we just take the fight to their home..."  Stenet sounds eager.

In reply to Stenet Fjall (msg # 283):

to Urrun, this place smells of fire and bone with a hint of death and rot.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 284):

"Feels like it. Not sure even I am up to destroying a plane of hell."

Who would know how to close the portal? What skill would suit?

He wrinkles his nose ... Not go there ... bad

In reply to Hograth Podkarmen (msg # 285):

hidden lore, gates, thaumatology-4

In reply to Narrator (msg # 287):

Hograth, not knowing the first thing about gates, looks around at the others...

In reply to Hograth Podkarmen (msg # 288):

several somethings in roughly human form approach from the horizon, moving in a slow, lurching fashion.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 289):

Hograth will prepare to fight. Range and size?

In reply to Hograth Podkarmen (msg # 290):

-4 range, sm 0

In reply to Narrator (msg # 291):

Sorry, but I was asking about range to judge if I will have enough time to get a shot off and then ready axe and shield again, or if I should just keep the axe and sheild ready now...

In reply to Hograth Podkarmen (msg # 292):

you should have about 12 seconds before you are in melee distance.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 293):

Enough time for an aimed shot at vitals, and then changing weapons, so he will do that...

[Private to GM: Rolled 5 under effective skill to hit, with penalty for hit location. 19 imp dam if hit.]

Stenet moves over next to Melchizidek and readies his shield and axe...


OOC: 08:26, Today: Stenet Fjall rolled 12 using 3d6.  Thaumatology 5 (Skill 9 - 4).

In reply to Stenet Fjall (msg # 295):

Melchizedek attempts to determine the sanctity level of this place...

In reply to Melchizidek (msg # 296):

sanctity of good is low here!

Urrun again scans the area for any signs of trouble.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 297):

What effect does that have on Melchizedeks abilities?

In reply to Melchizidek (msg # 299):

same as lo we mana on a mage, -5 to effective skill

In reply to Narrator (msg # 300):

"My clerical spells will fail half the time in this place. We should close this portal and leave. We cannot kill all the demons in hell...much as it might be good to try."

In reply to Hograth Podkarmen (msg # 294):

Hograth nails the shambler, which collapses.
 something is stirring by the tower...

In reply to Walking corpse (msg # 302):

Wait, there is a tower? What else is around? Hograth will start recocking the crossbow.

"I think we are going to have to leave..."

In reply to Hograth Podkarmen (msg # 303):

Melchizadek will look around nervously in all directions, including up...

In reply to Melchizidek (msg # 304):

a small leathery skeletal shape with black butterfly wings flies overhead, and draws back a tiny bow!

from the tower, you see three specks of flickering light fly from where the window had been in the other tower

This is around Urrun and Melchizadek or down in the well?

In reply to undead pixie (msg # 305):

"Look out above, evil undead pixie with a bow! The arrows are probably poisoned...This looks to be some kind of evil mirror plane...I wonder how i can be dealt with?"

In reply to Melchizidek (msg # 307):

Hograth will raise his shield and notice the creature...ready to dodge the arrow.

Holding on an answer to msg 306

In reply to Urrun (msg # 309):

this is down the well... Melchizidek has joined the others.

make a defense Hograth, the pixie being sm-6 has a +6 to hit you...

In reply to Narrator (msg # 310):

Hograth dodges the incoming attack...

[Private to GM: Rolled 1 under dodge.]

So Urrun, alone at the top of the well, looks down, to see if they are coming back up or if he too must crawl down there, which he is still loath to do. Otherwise he maintains guard at the top of the well.

In reply to Urrun (msg # 312):

the others can see the three points of light grow closer.  the flicker as if aflame.

the staggering figures are growing closer as well.

In reply to Narrator (msg # 313):

Melchizedek, feeling distant from his god, feels important as his clerical magic is unreliable. He readies his staff for what is to come and suggests that some get ready to deal with the three flying pests with a ranged weapon that reloads faster than Hograth...

In reply to Melchizidek (msg # 314):

Would Hograth have time to get an aimed shot off with the crossbow before switching to axe and shield, having both ready before the shambling ones get here?

In reply to Hograth Podkarmen (msg # 315):

yes... and the flickering lights are starting to look like they are about a foot in diameter, and have something inside the flames...

In reply to Narrator (msg # 316):

Hograth aims at the tiny archer above him carefully, to make his shot count...and gently squeezes the trigger. The bolt, a regular one from his cornucopia quiver, flies toward the tiny target.

[Private to GM: Effective skill with aiming, 17+6=23, rolled 10, 13 under, which should be enough to cover SM and range penalty, so I assume a hit if not dodged. 8 imp dam, almost minimum!]

In reply to Hograth Podkarmen (msg # 317):

the bolt smashes the undead pixie, but now you can see what the lights are...

In reply to flaming skull (msg # 318):

If Hograth has time he will recock his crossbow, but the priority now is readying his shield and axe before shamblers or the skulls get here.

In reply to Hograth Podkarmen (msg # 319):

you are running out of crossbow time

In reply to Narrator (msg # 320):

Yeah, thought that might be the case. Still, he will put winds into the winch racket he has time for before getting ready for the fight.

In reply to Hograth Podkarmen (msg # 321):

you get aboutbthree twists in before they are in melee range, especially as the skulls a flying quickly

In reply to flaming skull (msg # 322):

Hograth let's the sling drop to the sling and readies his axe and shield as they approach, as that was priority, as mentioned.

He will attempt to parry any initial attack.

[Private to GM: Skill 17/2=8, +3 for party =11, +3 for shield =14, 13, 12, rolled 10, 16, 6, damage 12, 7]

In reply to Hograth Podkarmen (msg # 323):

your blade passes though the vaporous skull doing minimal damage, and you can feel the burning cold of it.

In reply to flaming skull (msg # 324):

Not really having better option, Melchizedek swings his staff at the skull as well.

[Private to GM: Rolled a natural 5, skill 15, is there any point to rolling damage?]

In reply to Melchizidek (msg # 325):

Hograth also keeps swinging, lacking a better option...

[Private to GM: Rolled natural 5, skill 17, again, any point in rolling damage?]

In reply to Melchizidek (msg # 325):

occ damage is calculated by weapon size vs diffuse beings

In reply to flaming skull (msg # 327):

So staff or shield would work best? Axe sideways?

In reply to Hograth Podkarmen (msg # 328):

a battle axe does 2 a staff does 1

In reply to Narrator (msg # 329):

target is face sized; SM-5

In reply to Narrator (msg # 330):

I see. Does sheild do more?

In reply to Hograth Podkarmen (msg # 331):

impaling does as much as  1 point, any other melee attack does up o 2 points after any DR...

area attacks might help

In reply to Narrator (msg # 332):

Ok, Mel does not have any area attacks, and there are no non-magucal area attacks I know of at this tech...flame throwers anyone?

In reply to Melchizidek (msg # 333):

the skull bites at Hograth for 2 damage ignoring DR unless dodged!

In reply to flaming skull (msg # 334):

Is parry an option? Given it could cause damage and he is better at it, that would be the preferred option.

Hograth swings wildly all over the place, barely missing his friends.

[Private to GM: Rolled 1 over dodge, but 1 under parry. His rapid strikes are laughable, but not critical failures, cant roll below 15! Rapid strike needs 12 or less...]

In reply to Hograth Podkarmen (msg # 335):

Melchizadek swings with his staff at the most injured one, if there is one identifiable...

[Private to GM: Rolled 8 and 6, rapid strike 11, defence of choice is parry, rolled 3 under]

In reply to Melchizidek (msg # 336):

roll damage,but max is 2 points.

Hograth, you both take damage-2 prs each as it passes through the blate to your hand.  this is cosmic dr ignoring burning damage