The group heads over to Ravenskeep after lunch and passes through the main gates and to the gatehouse to meet with the guard who spoke with Delta earlier.

He explains the same information to you all, and has a short contract, simple terms, 500 for stopping the graverobbers, 500 more for retrieval of a pendant (it lists it as grey metal chain, iron round pendant in the shape of a sewer drain).   He lends you two keys to the West Lychen Gate.

The graveyard itself is somewhat overgrown, and disorganized, stone paths lead around tombstones that face many directions, some are leaning slightly, a few have fallen over, there are older trees throughout, and there a larger crypts placed about with stairs leading down into the dark entries.  It is quiet other than the sounds of birds.  It is not an overly large cemetary, some 20 crypts of varying sizes are contained within it high stone walls that block out a lot of the light even at midday.

ooc: see the maps page for a sample of what it looks like.

"Can you point us to the ones that have been plundered?  And specify which one had the pendant?"

Janek says, "I recommend we spread out just a bit and try to blend into the surroundings.  If is is someone coming in and waking the dead, it doesn't make sense to let them see us."

"It's still early Janek, I think we can explore for awhile before setting about to hiding. Can we look for tracks before we stir things up too much though?"



Looking over the map, I think Delta will first examine the crypt in the upper left, with the stairs down.

"Let's look over here, Vala," she will suggest, seeing no reason not to avoid being alone in such a creepy place.
This message was last edited by the player at 23:40, Tue 18 Aug 2020.

Matthias nods in agreement with Delta's suggestion and proceeds to walk the cemetery grounds. He takes note of the names on the tombstones and looks for any evidence of displaced earth, mausoleums that look like someone attempted to enter, and the like.

Tanyl shrugs and stays close to Matthias.

You know; the holy guy.

Seems like the smart thing to do, under the circumstances.

Janek will search where the others aren't, as he doesn't fear graveyards.  He has put people in it.  He will look for disturbed ground, broken crypts, shovel marks.

The adventurers spend some daylight hours examining the graveyard.  The earth is old and rocky, with stone paths, scrub plants and weeds, and grasses.  There are no footprints to be found.  All the crypts are locked, mostly with a variety of old and rusty locks.  A few have newer improvised wire ties and large stones holding the doors shut, these you would assume where broken into.  A couple of hours of searching, you gain this for the crypts, divided into regions. The names are old and often some letters unreadable

North:

1-  Antonian
2 - Broken into - Name Haspa--s
3 - Totally unreadable
4 - Broken into - Felix
5 - Unreadable

South

6 - Dioma---
7- Tulium
8 - Mandra-oias
9- Karras
10- Agathangelou

East

11- Broken into -Pomieux
12 -  Broken into -  Gatak
13 - Lyka--s
14 - Catuliex
15 - No name

West

16 - Bakirtiz
17 - Broken into - Samaras
18 - Diakeet
19 - no name
20 - Magnus

"Seems to be, there is no pattern here, that I can see, unless you consider they were north, east and west.  I suggest we focus on the south, as that could be their next target?  Just a thought."

Nodding in agreement, Delta takes a sip from her water skin.

" as good an option as any Master Dwarf," Delta replies. She had pondered the names looking for some deeper pattern, but had failed.

"I have not been in the town long enough for these names to mean anything to me. How about you Tanyl? Or Matthias? Any information on the families in question?"

Does she know from which crypt the missing amulet came? Do they have any words of wisdom or regret carved on the outside, or dates?

Turning to Janek, she turns to his expertise in stonework in hope of more information. " Do the broken names seem to be all from erosion and age? Do any appear to be intentionally defaced? I notice only one of those broken in to has a broken name. Hmmm..."

It is clear she feels she is missing something.

(OOC)I will need a reading from the DM to know if I know any of the names, but will answer temporarily.

(IC)
Janek shakes his head, "None of the names mean anything to me, and it seems like erosion and age have taken their toll on most of the crypts."

None of the names mean anything to Matthias, and he says as much. "Sorry, I don't think I know any of these families..."

He then tries to recall the tombs he has seen, particularly any that looked like they had not been pilfered yet and were also ostenatious in appearance. "If we're lucky, uur tomb robbers might just be looking for jewels and riches and not to practice necromantic arts," Matthias reasons. "Did any of you see any tombs that looked, well, likely marks?"

OOC: Please let me know if Matthias recognizes any of the names and/or we have a sense which of the tombs looked nicer/more expensive.

Tanyl also looks at the names and searches his memory . . .

Vala, who was hardly literate and in any case new in town concentrated on other aspects of the crypts than the names - the size, the decorations, even any plants or trees growing nearby. Maybe there was something there instead?

Janek wonders what the similarities are for the ones broken into.  Does he see anything in the remaining ones that suggest they might be next, especially in the south part?

Following Janek, Delta watches him examine the things he examines, and tries to find anything of interest there as well.

As ancient cemetery, it is unsurprising that the names don't mean much to all the members of the group.  Matthias as a cleric has some teaching in family names of Stormhaven, and Tanyl has grown up in the city.  All the names that are readable seem appropriate for the times in which the people likely lived and died, and a few are still common to the area.  One seems out of place, Felix, that in not a common surname type for the area. Maybe some rich persons cat.

Checking down the steps of the crypts, you find all the ones not broken into still have old, rusty in most cases, padlocks on the stone doors.  The ones broken into, are simply wired shut with a large stone leaning against them to keep them closed.

As you check them each, when you go down into the dark of the Felix crypt stairs, you note there is nothing on the the door or surround other than the name.  Though light filters in from above the stairs, it appears, there are lights inside the crypt, unless it is some illusion of the light from above flickering at the frame of the door.

Janek will quietly search for traps, but finds none.


10:42, Today: Janek rolled 87 using 1d100.  Find traps.

Tanyl tries as well, and has similar success (or lack thereof).


19:49, Today: Tanyl Miaras rolled 37 using 1d100.  Find Traps.



He tries to quietly approach the door, and listen.

Janek pulls out his dagger.  Better for close in than a sword. He indicates to Tanyl to open the door, and he will enter first.

Tanyl gives a slight nod to indicate his understanding, but focuses on determining if he can hear anything before opening the door.

Tanyl hears nothing. And it occurs to him, and Janek, that a door that has been broken down, probably already triggered a trap if it had one.  As Tanyl shifts the stone away, and then carefully untangles the wire from the lock, Janek pulls his dagger and is set to move in, as the door opens, the flickering of lights increase.....

The crypt is about 20 feet deep by 15 feet wide, with a the far wall curved. All around the edges of the walls are jack o' lanterns, orange pumpkins that flicker within with candlelight. There is no coffin here, but bones scattered on floor.

Tanyl looks for footprints before anyone enters.

Awaiting Tanyl's nod, Janek will enter the room, looking all around for anything untoward, as if the pumpkins weren't unusual enough.

Matthias peers into the crypt and takes note of the pumpkins. The acolyte searches his memory for any religious significance of such items, particularly as it relates to his understanding of the Raven Queen's teachings.

"Careful, do not disturb anything," he remarks in a hushed tone.

OOC: Is Mathias aware of religious significance to pumpkins in a crypt?

Delta opts to keep an eye (and an ear) out behind them, making certain to look upwards as well.

ooc: Maps has been updated with a picture of the crypt, I'll post answers to questions later today

With stone floors, footprints are not well defined, but this is evidence of the dirt, dust having been disturbed.

Pumpkins, and Jack o Lanterns, are associated with many fall festivals.  Fall being the time they are ripe, but also being a harbinger of the winter, they are associated with death, dying, and generally being spooky.

ooc: Delta, roll a d20

Nervously, Delta looks back, and forth, and up. This place is spookier than she had expected!

OOC 10:48, Today: Delta rolled 15 using 1d20 ((15)).

PM

"STOP! Step back..." Delta cries out, stepping slightly to the fore, right hand extended.

She stares at the middle of the floor for a long few seconds, then glances around the room, slowly taking in the surroundings. After a moment her eyes return to the middle.

"There is an illusion here," she says, waving her hand toward the first full stone block in the floor."An odd one, as it displays the floor as if it were normal, while hiding a message. It says 'how many hollow eyes are watching' and beneath that are the digits zero thru nine..."

Staying in one place, she pivots, examining the Jack O'Lanterns, as regular pumpkins have no eyes, and counts, careful to be certain of how many each faux head has, be it one, two, three or more.

She also looks for any skulls laying about, for they would indeed be hollow eyes as well... though she keeps the totals separate in her mind, uncertain which number, if there is a difference, the riddle might refer to.

Tanyl freezes, and permits Delta to follow her instincts on addressing the riddle.  But he does whisper:

"It seems the number is much larger than nine, does it not?"

There are 17 pumpkins with two eyes, one with one eye, and one skull on the floor with two eyes (all hollow that is).

"Which direction do they face?  Maybe not all are 'watching' . . . " Tanyl muses aloud.

" I am guessing we can push the digits more than once..." She examines the assorted eyes once again, taking Tanyl's suggestion into consideration.

"An I over thinking this, or should I consider if the jack-o-lanern eyes have a pupil cut out into them?"

Glancing behind her, Delta seeks out the comforting figure of Vala, whom she hopes is near by.

" If we count them all, I get thirty seven. But I fear what might happen if I get it wrong... should we look for more potential empty eyes? Etched in the wall or some such? Or should we just give thirty seven a try?"
This message was last edited by the player at 20:19, Fri 21 Aug 2020.

"A moment please," Tanyl murmurs as he continues trying to determine if there's something that some, but not all of the skulls and pumpkins might be looking at.  The illusion, perhaps?  Or the door?  Or where the deceased would have rested?

As the pumpkins and the skull have no pupils, they seem to be looking at you just about anywhere in the room.

"Bah!" Tanyl utters in frustration.  "Several answers can be justified, but I think you're approach is the soundest."

"Add to that the fact that our eyes are looking to.  Quite the conundrum."

Tanyl smiles. "I hope our eyes aren't regarded as hollow."

Delta nods in agreement. "I doubt our eyes are being considered. Besides, how could they know how many people are here looking?"

She double checks her math, seventeen times two, for thirty four, plus the one, thirty five, and... hmmm.... yes or no on the skull? She thinks yes, so thirty-seven.

Unless someone stops her, she reaches out and pushes the three then the seven...

Fingers crossed!

"Did we consider that only the skull would be said to have hollow eyes?"
This message was last edited by the player at 21:28, Fri 21 Aug 2020.

Matthias grows increasingly uncomfortable about being in this tomb, particularly as his companions begin trying to work out the meaning of the pumpkin's eyes.

He eventually speaks up, "Umm...I don't remember us being hired to break into crypts and solve riddles. Our contract was to stop graverobbers and to retrieve a pendant." He gestures expansively at the be-pumpkined crypt.

"This feels an awful lot like breaking into a crypt to me. What are we doing here?"
This message was last edited by the player at 21:47, Fri 21 Aug 2020.

Delta pauses, and turns to the good friar.

"Me, I don't think all of this is part of any right and proper crypt. I'm thinking that whomever placed these odd things in here might be the grave robbers. I certainly don't think answering the magically hidden riddle is in any way desecration."

Matthias listens to the gnome, his face wrapped in confusion, and responds, "And why would a graverobber break into a tomb only to decorate it with jack o'lanterns?"

He looks at the assembled pumpkins once more, shakes his head, and remarks, "This makes no sense. It's just as likely these pumpkins were placed here to prevent grave robbers, magical wards, in which case, we shouldn't fool with things we don't understand...particularly within a crypt."

" I am not talking about disturbing the pumpkins, much less the dead, only pushing a pair of numbers."

"I do not think that wise," Matthias says in a level tone. Matthias then seeks support from any of his other companions.

"Something is not right about all this..." he says in a low voice.

"Ordinarily, I would not have a concern about disturbing the dead.  But if a friendly priest senses danger beyond just damage to my 'soul,' then I'm inclined to listen."

Tanyl thinks a moment, then continues: "It may be prudent to continue scouting and exploring before tempting such dangers.  This puzzle will still be here later.  Does that sound right to you, Matthias?"
This message was last edited by the player at 23:20, Fri 21 Aug 2020.

Matthias breathes a sigh of relief and eagerly nods in the affirmative. "It's not going anywhere, and besides, its presence might lure would-be graverobbers. Or it could have nothing to do with what we hired to do, in which case, we either need to look around a bit more or find a place to stake out the cemetery for the night."

Clearly frustrated, Delta shakes her head and leaves the crypt, her thoughts her own.

Delta's hand was out and about to touch the numbers only she can see, when the others begin to question the action, whatever their reasons, their are doubts, and Delta turns and heads up the stairs.  If she were nervous about the place, and tense about pushing the right buttons, she nearly jumps when she sees a hunched over figure in black robes standing at the top of the steps.

Is it an Igor, she wonders? She had heard some mages had a hunchbacked lackey to assist them in their studies.

"Who... who are you? How did you get in the graveyard?" she called out.

She puts one hand on the hilt of her sword, but does not draw it... yet.

"Stay your weapons".  The figure descends the steps, using a staff to lean on. "I am the Reverend Blackthorn, overseer of Ravenskeep these last twenty years."

As he enters where he isn't backlit from above, you can see he is a human, maybe in his fifties, though his body is somewhat twisted, the bones on his hand are swollen and somewhat twisted, and he moves stiffly and somewhat hunched over.

"The guard, Deek, was told to summon me if takers were found for the...job.  You speak wisely young acolyte, your were not hired to enter these crypts and disturb the dead.  However, what would you charge me, to do just that?"

Tanyl reacts to Delta's reaction(s) and whirls around.

He cannot help himself; he asks: "Why would you want us to do that?"

"It seems obvious to me if he wanted to know who would take this task, that he has some interest in these goings on."

Delta steps to one side, avoiding the illusion, to allow the gentleman to step down to the bottom level should he wish.

She takes a deep, dramatic bow, complete with a sweep of her left hand, and a gentle tug of the forelock with her right.

" My name is Delta Upsilon, student of many things, master of none. Shall we discuss value, price and reasons Master Blackthorn?"
This message was last edited by the player at 01:23, Sat 22 Aug 2020.

Reverend Blackthorn is about to answer and then coughs a few times.

"I have very good reasons, I've asked your price, if knowing those reasons is part of the cost, then name your price, and I'll decide if I'm wiling to pay it".

Imagining the sound of coins ringing in Tanyl's mind (though she could be wrong, his first response to the offer was not 'a million gold!') Delta considers the elderly man.

" It is hard to set a price for a task we do not understand."

She squats cross-legged on the ground, and swings her lute in front of her. She begins to pluck a quiet, a slighty spooky tune.

"So you will understand if our first offer comes in a bit, shall we say high. But it is only a bargaining position, don't be too concerned."

She looks to her comrades...

" Consider your own requests, I'll go first. I would like a decent sized house, two story, with a basement. It doesn't have to be in the best part of town, but better than the narrows. That, and enough money to pay for one years membership at the mages guild. I could ask for more, but I want to let my comrades speak up."

she strums even more quietly, and waits to hear what the others might say.

Janek pipes up, "I don't know that my long term needs weigh much into the discussion, my desire is something that costs 2500 gold, way beyond what I have today.  Anything that moves me toward that is a good thing."

Matthias is startled by Reverend Blackthorn's sudden appearance and then grows even more suspicious when the priest asks them to name their price for breaking in and defiling crypts. The acolyte is not movied to get into a bidding war with the priest of the Raven's Queen, so he defers this activity to his companions.

While they discuss, he visually examines the reverend more closely for any religious items he might be wearing or carrying. It seems rather odd a guardian of the cemetery would be offering to pay the adventurers to break into crypts and Matthias has his doubts about the man.

The man coughs again, followed by a laugh that sounds like gravel being ground together.

"Forgive me, too many years in damp places, it gets to me now.  I'm afraid I haven't funds near enough for that, and what I have I need to make best use of.  Maybe I'll throw in my motives for free, I hoping to 20 gold pieces per crypt."

"The young Lord Mayor has more interest in his own city then in adventures, or battles, or even politics as I've gathered.  As such, my long awaited petitions for funds to restore and clean up Ravenskeep have been acknowledged.  Some funding has come from the Keep.  I have already had two other old sections surveyed.  Not to loot, not to defile, only to report on the condition of the ancient and ought be revered crypts.  Crypts are not invulnerable, to weather, creatures, and ever Dark Orcus seeks to stir the dead.  After I have the reports, I hope to convince the Lord Mayor to fund repairs.  I pay because I wish the crypts as undisturbed as possible, and NOTHING taken.  Which I why I was glad to hear a member of the faith is with you, I trust he would not allow an robbery.  An accurate accounting of the conditions, details of what you find, and if there is anything in the crypt that should not be, destroy it.  We have found vermin, insects, and even several undead in the others, so it is not without its risks.  For your own motives, you are going to be here anyhow, doing a job that may and may not earn you a single coin.  The robbers may go elsewhere, or have gained enough not to try it again, this way, you at least sure of a decent wage"

"So, you think the recent break-ins are the work of ordinary robbers, seeking whatever wealth may have been buried with the dead?"

"What else could it be?"

"It could be many things, who can read the mind, but yes, robbery could be motive."

From her seat Delta continues to strum quietly, and listens.

" If twenty per crypt is what you have, then it will suffice for me, on top of the price already worked out with the guard of course. That and the good favor of your temple of course, always nice to have friends in holy places."

Putting away her instrument, she gestures around the crypt.

"Do you have any thoughts on all of the jack-o-lanterns lighting this tomb? Are these local traditions perhaps? I had felt them to be suspicious, but I don't much know the ways of the city."

She smile, and adds one last, little thing...

"There is also the matter of this odd illusion here, covering a riddle. It asks how many hollow eyes are watching, and there are several numbers for us to enter an answer. Myself, I am inclined toward thirty seven, but that includes the two eyes from the lone skull. Is that normal, or should we consider that a desecration, of sorts?"

"I will, of course, give you the blessing of the Raven Queen, so long as you are respectful to the places you enter, she shall look upon your actions with favor."

When Delat asks about the illusion, and jack o' lanterns, Reverend Blackthorn takes in the room for a few moments.

"Such decorations are associated with the end of life, you never know what you'll find, the illusion tells me our occupant may have been a mage, or at least the kin of mage."

He looks directly at Delta, and after a few hacking coughs, mumbles a prayer.  Then he raises his arms and prays that the Raven Queen bless and protect you and allow you all to tread the paths of sanctified crypts for the great god of those who sleep herein.   He removes a nice leather bound book and hands it to the gnome.

"Take careful notes of what you find, and have the guards summon me when you are through, and I'll bring your payment.....and, for my prayer... thirty seven is the best solution for what you seek here."

If no one else has any words for him, the Reverend leaves.

Delta bows as Master Blackthorn leaves.

"Thank you Reverend, I shall make plentiful notes, and I am grateful for your permission to look into these things more fully. Is our commission for this graveyard only, or the others as well?"

She runs her hand over the book, then flips thru the pages absentmindedly.

Once she receives whatever answer he deigns to provide, she will find a writing utensil, if possible, and begin to actually sketch the room they are in, including an enlarged version of the riddle on the floor.

In particular she will look into one or two of the jack-o-lanterns, to determine if they are lit by candles or some other source of illumination.

" He seems the authority on things, such as the proper treatment of these tombs," she will offer, after he leaves, " can we solve the riddle now?"

Tanyl doesn't answer, and instead looks to Matthias given his previously-expressed misgivings.

Matthias is now reassured enough about the lawfulness of their entrance into the crypt and nods in agreement when Delta questions the group about the riddle.

"Yes. Let's see what secrets this tomb may hold..."

Matthias then awaits the results of Delta's poking and prodding.

Delta pokes and prods. And despite the initial instinct to answer forty two, she does indeed try thirty seven.

As Delta taps the numbers, there is a low rumble that runs through the floor, and the large stone panel on the floor with the illusion rolls back revealing a steep staircase.  There is a glowing light from below.   Carefully descending, you find another chamber with a tomb that the lid has been slightly opened.  The glowing light is coming from inside the coffin.

ooc: please see Maps are updated for a visual

"Well, that's interesting."

Drawing her blade, Delta slowly descends the stairs, making sure the others are following...

Janek will also descend the stairs.

Tanyl will follow as well, but he still sticks near Matthias.

Janek will move towards the left side, presumable the foot, of the coffin.

Matthias nervously reaches for his mace, but doesn't draw it just yet. When he sees other descends the stairs, he follows along. If needed to see, he will light a candle.

Vala follows them all, guarding the rear, not for the first time ruing her all too human eyes.

The room is in good condition, clean, no dampness or webs or signs of any intrusion other than the lid being slid partially open.  The light from the casket lights the entire room, revealing its intricate columns and fine marbled floors.  As Janek approaches the coffin, he sees carvings on its stone lid, and writing.

"Ph'Eliquex, most beloved companion, sleep in peace"

ooc: does any look inside the coffin?

OOC: No . . . we're too scared. :P

"Does that name sound familiar to anyone?" Tanyl asks as he considers his own question.

Janek will look into the coffin, but not move the lid, yet.

Janek leans over and looks inside.

It's a full size coffin-for a human or elf or other humanoid sized person.  But inside only the very center is a skeleton sitting on puffy white silk.

It is the form a tiny dragon maybe two feet long laid out in a position of gentle sleep - its little front feet seem to have been holding holding something that is no longer there.

"I think I found where the pendant might have been.  This miniature dragon was holding something when it died and it looks to be the right size for a pendant. I suggest we open the coffin and check the lining.

Sliding her sword back into her scabbard, Delta pulls out her book and begins sketching frantically all that she sees, including the contents of the coffin.

"Is anyone skilled at looking for other means of getting into or out of the tomb? I doubt there is one, but it seems worth checking."

When she is done with her sketches, she will keenly search the area for anything that might appear to be glamoured or masked by illusion.

Janek looks for traps before moving the lid.

He doesn't see any.


21:44, Today: Janek rolled 41 using 1d100.  Find/remove traps. (35 for success)

"Master Janek, your people are renowned for their knowledge of stonework, would you care to examine these?"
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 11:52, Wed 26 Aug 2020.

At Delta's bidding, I will examine the walls and floor, looking for other means of entry and exit.

There are no traps on the coffin, nor anything else inside other than the dragon and the fine sheets that line it.

Janek searches the room and is confident there are no other ways in or out.  He is impressed by the fine craftsmanship, he would surmise it likely was hewn by dwarves, of course, he might be biased in that assessment.

"A fine resting place indeed." Finishing up her sketches, Delta examines the tomb once more with her eyes, even to peeking into the coffin.

"I must admit, I expected something a bit more dire. Should we close this?"

If they do, she suggests Vala head up to the lit room above before they potentially close off the light source.

"Does anyone have any reason to tarry, or should we move on to the next tomb?"

If possible, she will pull Tanyl aside.

'I think we should let sleeping spirits lie,' Vala says. The barbarian warrioress looks noticeably unhappy around the dragon corpse. Smiling thankfully at Delta's suggestion she heads up and out.

Janek will help close the lid.

Tanyl has leaned in to look at the coffin's contents, but he has not done much more.

"So . . . now what?"

" We are being paid to check them all, let us determine what time of day it is first."

Seeing the tomb resealed, Delta hopes that Ph'Eliquex would rest a little easier, and hoped they would find his (or her) pendant.

The name seemed odd, did it mean anything? She searched her memory for the unusual construct...

"We might be able to inspect one or two more before we should set up and wait for the grave robbers."

She hoped they would have the time, they should only have been here about an hour, tops, if her time sense was accurate.

The party leaves the tomb behind, in the end put the door back the way they found it.  It seems bright outside even though it is not a particularly sunny area.  It has only been a few hours since lunchtime when they headed over to Ravenskeep.  Looking around there is no sign of the Reverend or any other living soul.

Delta seems to remember that dragons have rather unusual names, though this one doesn't mean anything special to her, she does find it funny that the crypt door is labeled Felix.


ooc: if you choose to explore another crypt, please give me its number from the list.

Delta suggests they check the tomb also on the north, that was also broken in to.

"The name says Haspa-something or another?"

OOC Number 2 is my suggestion

Tanyl shrugs.  They're all the same to him.

Janek has no opinion on which is next.  Eventually, we might hit the right one.

Staying in the same area, the party again removes the temporary rigs that are keeping the door shut, and descend into the crypt.  This one is dark and requires a light of some sort.  It smells musty, and is small but contains two coffins.  The walls and floor are mostly sound but there is a hole about foot wide in the far corner, dug out dirt hole.  There are a few bones scattered about the floor.  The coffins are clearly marked: Reginald Haspar and the other Petunia Haspar.

Maps Updated
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:16, Thu 27 Aug 2020.

Janek will check out the hole, looking to see if it is just a dig, or if it is a tunnel of sorts, as well as checking if there are any contents.

"Curious, I wonder who's bones those are, and if someone took from the coffins and replaced the lids."

Digging thru her pack, Delta pulls out a hooded lantern. With a few skillful wacks of her flint and steel she lights a bit of tinder then transfers it to the lantern. Opening the hood, she reveals the light into the room.

"Doesn't look to bad in here, does it?"

She examines the exterior of the coffins looking for signs of tampering. She will then call upon her Gnomish heritage to check the walls for any unsafe walls, ceilings or floors. She will also look for any sign of burrowing into the tomb.

Finally she will ask Janek what he has found in the area he has chosen to examine.

Detect unsafe walls,                      70% probability
ceilings, or floors                         (d10, score 1-7)
I will let the DM roll for me.

Matthias visually inspects the tomb and agrees with Delta's assessment. "No. It does not appear to be disturbed. Perhaps we should move along to the next tomb?" Having said so, he edges back toward the entrance.

The walls seem sturdy and no sign of other exits.  Some of the bones could be human but several are animal.  A check of the coffins shows that they likely have been recently opened-small bits of rocks around on the floor and a clumsy mark on the edge as if a pry bar was used to loosen it.

"I guess we should open this, to see if there's obvious signs of something being disturbed.  Or missing."

"Agreed "

Seeing the others point out the disturbed coffins and debris on the floor, Matthias' face reddens. "Yeah, I guess you're right. I didn't even see that..."vHis voice trails off at the end and he shuffles around awkwardly.

It takes several people to slide those coffin lids far enough open to see inside they are so heavy.  Inside, the skeletons are well preserved, they were buried in fine clothes which have degraded over the years.  They are laid out with hands on their chests.  The only thing obvious about the man is one of his fingers is missing, a ring finger.  The only strange thing about the lady is that her hair is hanging over the front of her face.


ooc: sorry for the slow pace now, I started this post about a dozen times and have been interrupted each time before I could save it or post it, whew, what a Friday!

"So maybe a ring was stolen, and a piece of hair jewelry, a tiara, or a hair clip of some kind?"

Holding the lantern high she shines the light down into the coffin, checking for shoes and such.

Unless she finds something else, she suggests the stronger members of the party close the coffins up, the starts making notes and sketches in her book.

"Master Janek, did you find anything in the corner? Was there recent digging there?"

Assuming there is time left and nothing else to do here, the Gnome suggests they try another that has already been opened,
 the crypt of the family Pomieux.

OOC: Number eleven

Tanyl nods his agreement with Delta's assessment.  "Ordinary grave robbers, no doubt, as the priest suspected."

He also checks out the hole, before the party departs.

OOC: I had a longer post, but Delta said it all before I could put it up. :P
This message was last edited by the player at 19:28, Fri 28 Aug 2020.

The hole is about a foot around, it does not look like recent activity as best as you can tell.   Likely some burrowing creature or creatures.  In searching the room, Vala notices that one of the small bones between her feet looks a lot like a human finger.

"Maybe this isn't the work of robbers, but rodents."


Tanyl looks on the floor and through the debris to see if any jewelry can be found.

"Perhaps a shape shifter of some sort? Master Janek, can you tell if the crypt was broken in to or out of?"

Heading over the the hole, Delta shines her light down into it. As a Gnome, she is very knowledgeable of burrowing creatures, and might be able to identify the burrower, if it was natural. She will then begin making a series of chittering and chattering sounds, down in to the hole.

Gnomes can communicate with any burrowing mammal (such as moles, badgers, ground squirrels, etc.)

Janek looks at the way the debris is scattered.  "Looks like it was from the outside, maybe whatever bones are on the flood here?  From the inside, there would be dirt in the coffins more than on the floor.  The shiny objects could have been taken by a rodent and the finger might have come off with the ring.  Now, the real question, if a rodent took a ring and a hair pin, where are they?"

Vala also looks among the debris on the floor, particularly studying the bones to see if any have (yuck) tooth marks on them.

Most of the bones have dust on them, and have been gnawed on,  not so the finger.  Delta guesses it’s rats but not lately as the is no fresh droppings.  None answer her calls.

"Welp...ummm...  Janek, could you open up the coffin which had the ring stolen from it please? I think we should return the finger bone."

"I wish you would have thought of that before I closed it! Okay, someone give me a hand here, so Delta can give him a finger." He laughs at his morbid joke.

"I'll buy you an ale to make up for, Master Dwarf."

Delta gently puts the finger back on the hand and it does seem to fit nicely.  With nothing else to see or do - the group is soon back outside and securing the door back. Everyone is surprisingly tired despite the ease of the explorations thus far.  Being in such private places requires nerve and energy more than one might expect.  After a few minutes outside breathing fresh air you begin to feel better and head off to the next crypt.

"Antonian?" Tanyl suggests.  "It's the only one left in this area with a name."

Tanyl mentions Atonian before heading off to check the other crypts already defiled.  A quick look at its door reveals a very old style padlock on the door, rusted but sturdy.  If you choose to enter this one, someone will have to pick the lock, or break it.

ooc: Given its age and condition, you have a -25% bonus to your pick locks rolls.

"Let me try that lock."

(OOC)
I put a minus rather than a plus, but the actual number still comes out as a success

10:27, Today: Janek rolled -12 using 1d100-20.  Pick Lock.

The actual roll is an 8, the modified is 28, the required is 45.  Success.

Getting a bit carried away with her task, Delta sketches the outside of this tomb, as well as the surrounding area.

While waiting for Delta and Janek to conclude their tasks, Matthias takes a look at the sky to try to determine how much time remains before dusk.

Janek easily opens the lock using his specialized tools and picks, again, it leads down into a dark space.  This crypt is about 20 x 15 with no coffin in it at all.  In the far corner, scattered remains of humanoid bones.  As in the last crypt, there is evidence of a hole in the  corner, that has collapsed, likely a rat hole that has fallen in over time.

"No coffin at all? How odd. Janek, lets check the walls, maybe they have limed over ossuary niches or some such. Maybe this tomb is from a time when creation was more in vogue."

She will check the walls, and the hole in the floor, again calling out for any residents.

Tanyl will also help look for hidden or secret panels.  He's not a dwarf, but elves have a sense about these things . ..

Having seen the map, I will start my search at the slight rectangular bulge on the right wall.

Janek sees searches the wall a bit, and then digs into the dirt from the hole to see if something got left behind.

After a good bit of searching and sketching, there seems to be nothing that doesn't meet the eye about this crypt.  Matthias is aware that not all cultures or religions approve of coffins, perhaps this person was simply laid to rest without one.

" Off to the next one I guess. Can you lock this one back up Janek?"

Assuming there is enough daylight left, I guess we try #3, as it is on this side as well?

"I wonder if the grave robbers have some information as to which tombs would have valuables in them?That could explain the hit or miss pattern. I wonder if the rat tunnels have anything to do with scouting these places? "

"Okay, let's close this place up and find some hiding spots, eh? We need to decide on that before we lose the light.  Maybe it is a familiar that is digging in?"
This message was last edited by the player at 00:55, Mon 31 Aug 2020.

Leaving the tomb, it about 4 in the afternoon.

What time does the sun go down around here?

"I am not sure about sunset, but if we can stake out our hiding places now, we can get in one more crypt before we actually take our places.  I just don't think it would be wise to find where to hide too late."

" That makes sense. Should we be spread out, or should we focus in the side that has yet to be pillaged?"

"We should probably set up so we can watch the side that has yet to be trespassed," Matthias replies while looking for a suitable hiding spot. "I'd recommend we not get too spread out across the cemetery, if possible."

Matthias scans the surrounding area and adds, "If we run into trouble, we'd be better off together than apart."

"Not a bad idea, for a holy man." Janek laughs.

Nodding in agreement, Delta heads to the south side.

"Any thoughts as to who should hold the flanks and who should hold the middle?"

"Vala should hold the middle.  The rest should be like spokes around, one in each area, hidden but able to react when needed.  So, not the outside of the areas, but nearer to the center.  Bows might come in handy, if you have 'em.  Delta, north, Matthias south, Tanyl East, I will take the west.  You can use bushes, trees, even the steps down into a crypt, for cover.  No chatter, no fear.  Just remember, if you hear something, see something, feel something, identify it.  If you yell out, we all come running."

Vala in the middle made sense, so Delta tried to find a place slightly to the left of middle to hide, something that shouldn't be too hard considering her size.

The plan is agreeable to Tanyl, so he takes a position to the East with his bow out, and tries to hide.

The group splits up to watch the southern portion of the graveyard even as the light of day begins to fade.  Taking up positions where they can watch and listen.  As the hours go by, and it gets darker and darker within the cemetery, the place looks creepier and creepier.  A bit withered and neglected by day, now becomes downright spooky.  It is strangely quiet, so much so, you occasionally hear the noises of your companions, a squeak of leather, or scrape of metal as each shifts positions from getting sore.  Tensions drain into boredom, and a fighting not to nod off.  By the time the sky begins to slightly brighten, tiredness and hunger seem your most dangerous threats.

Waiting for the others to move, Delta wonders if the grave robbers have finished looting this place, or if they had managed to loot it last night without them noticing. She decided to check all the tombs as soon as possible.

Janek says, "I recommend a quick check, then we need to get some sleep.  at noon, we can come back and start where we left off.  No sense going without sleep."

Delta whispers as she suggests they wait another hour or so. It is still dark enough that some might make an attempt.

Janek pulls back into his hiding place.

Matthias attempts to supress a yawn but is unable to contain it. The evening had passed uneventfully and all they had to show for it were sore muscles and tired eyes. He nods in agreement with Janek's assessment and begins looking forward to the comfort of his cot.

As the sky continues the brighten, everyone finally agrees it unlikely any robbers will be coming this dawn.  A quick check of the doors to the crypts show nothing has been disturbed in the night. Returning to the city, you lock the gates to WLC, before heading out the main gates and back to your rooms for some well deserved rest.

Though you've found no robbers, it is somewhat comforting to have earned 60 gp, not bad for a side job. All sleep well, failing quickly to sleep and only awakened because the bright sun and the smells of lunch and the grumbling in your stomachs.

Disturbing dreams inhabit Delta's sleep. Always an imaginative child, the traits that fed her tales and tunes gave her nightmares of being chased thru rat tunnels but something she could not see or hear, but could oddly smell. The scent of dust, decay and death.

Every time she thinks she has found an escape, it is only a crypt, filled with leering pumpkin heads, each with sharp, gnashing teeth, sending her barreling back down into the darkened burrows.

Just as the thing that is chasing her is about to catch her, she stops, and spins around to face it, or more accurately them.

Two rat faced creatures, a male and a female, in flowing period garb, hers peach and his grey, with long glistening fangs, and eerily swaying tails...

"Stop!" Delta cried. "take not one step closer. If you do, I shall pinch myself awake, and you shall cease to be!"

The two fiends chitter secretly between them, uncertain, would she, or wouldn't she? In the end, it was a risk they had to take. Putting on as soothing a pair of smiles as their rodent faces could manage, they tried to convince Delta that they meant her no harm... then the male took a small step forward.

And Delta pinched herself!!!

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Her room was a comfort, bright sunlight, and the smell of well cooked food to offset her grumbling stomach. But somehow, the shadow of the dream still haunted the corners of her mind. She felt certain it would take at least three slices of cake to make herself feel better.

Janek will go down to the pub for lunch. When the others get there he will say, "interesting way to earn money, eh?"

More subdued than usual, it takes a moment for Delta to register Janek's comment.

"Interesting? Yes, yes, I suppose. Creepy too..."

The gnome orders simple fair, comfort food if you will, then asks if they might send out for a dessert from a local bakery. She pays, of course. If not, she will seek out such delicacies herself after the meal. She will avoid alcohol, falling back on her new favorite of apple tea with honey.

" Do you remember of the friar expected us only to watch this location, or to examine others as well? I think we should focus on the south side today, just to see if there appears to be anything tempting to our targets."

Vala arrives, somehow looking both hungry and (for her) thoughtful.

'Whatever is I hope I can fight it,' she says to her friends. The warrioress looks and sounds almost embarrassed. 'I'm better at sword swinging than riddles.'

"Grunt work, but seemingly safe," Tanyl says. "Good money, and easy too."

He sounds glum.  Bored, almost.

Matthias dispassionately chews on a corner of dry bread and washes it down with watered-down wine. When discussion turns to another day of entering crypts, Matthias' demeanor mirrors Tanyl's.

He agrees with Delta's proposal to focus on the cemetery's south side and then interjects:

"Well, if everyone is ready, I suppose we should get started..."

Wolfing down the last of her fifth slice of cake, Delta nods at Mattias' suggestion, hops to her feet, checks her gear then heads for the door.

Tanyl shuffles up out of his seat.  As he does, he grabs a few rolls and stuffs them in his pack.

It seems that he learned a lesson from last night's vigil.

It is a short walk through the city to return to RavensKeep.  Entering in, no one accosts you as you make your way to and into the cemetery.   Heading south, you find the five crypts there all locked.  It is a sunnier day today and the cemetery looks less gloomy than you remember from last night.

Which crypt do check out first?

On the way, if possible, Delta would like to buy a small journal of her own, to keep her dreams in.

*****

Once at the graveyard, the first thing Delta does is examine all of the tombs to see if any had been tampered with while they rested.

She will then suggest the just go left to right. (start at six and move on towards ten.)

Janek will nod in agreement.

The first of the Southern Crypts, the lock proves once again, easy for Janek to open.  Inside, it is a simple crypt, much like you'd expect to find.  Old, dark as pitch, chilly, but in fairly good shape for its age.  Its one coffin is undisturbed.  A search reveals nothing else of note about it, no doors, hidden or otherwise, no animal intrusion.  In less than an hour, you've completed your search, made your drawings and earned another 20gp.

ooc: To make these crypt explorations move along, I'm going to take over some things, one, I'll assume you always have everyone with the skills try to pick the lock, I'll roll for those and as long as someone makes it, i'll move forward.  Once inside, I'll assume you are going to all do a basic search for doors, walls, oddity in stone and the like and will report those findings.   I would like a basic standard marching order for single file.

OOC: Did my quick inspection of the tombs before hand show anything new broken in to?

"I would like to see if the deceased has anything worth stealing. Not to steal, mind you, but to get a sense of how tempting this tomb might be to the robbers. What say you Good Friar, " she asks of Matthias. "A sketch of it might make it easier to find should it get stolen later," she adds in way of explaining the value of such an action.

She swings her lantern light into the corners, verifying the lack of tunneling.

"Master Janek, I suspect the lack of a burrow might be a clue. Can you consider the tunnels we have found, and see if there is a common direction, should they be fairly straight?"

"An interesting thought.  Let me see if there is a common direction to the digging.  In the mean time, let us move to the next one."

(OOC)
I recommend the order as:

Vala
Tanyl
Delta
Matthias
Janek

Delta seems to be the natural leader, but Vala and Tanyl are better in a fight and, as the third best, I can guard the rear, as well as perceive anything behind or beside us.
This message was last edited by the player at 01:12, Wed 02 Sept 2020.

Torn between the apparent insult to her fighting prowess, and enjoying the protection of being in the center, Delta is pleased with the suggestion. After locking the tomb back up, she follows Janek to the next tomb.

OOC on to #7 I believe.
This message was last edited by the player at 02:10, Wed 02 Sept 2020.

Vala smiles. 'Thanks for the confidence Janek. I'll try not to bump in anything but I'm not making promises.'

An early afternoon check of the cemetery shows it was the same as you left it the previous morning.  Janek does not yet see any pattern to the burrows.

The lock on the next crypt is so easy, it nearly falls off before any one touches it.  The Tulium crypt is so similar to the previous one, you wonder if you've made a mistake and re-entered it a second time.  Delta barely needs to concentrate to make the sketch having just done it, but it makes some sense that certain styles of crypts might be "standard".   Again, there is little to note here, and in no time you have earned another 20 coins.

Moving onto Mandra-oias, you note that at this rate, you'll probably be able to explore 4 or 5 today as you get a rhythm of it.  This lock is a little stiffer but yields.  Vala heads down into the crypt and comes up short when lights hits the tomb. There are bones strewn all around, and several coffins with the lids off and smashed.  It is a larger room with part of one wall missing, like more passage exists around the far edge.  Mostly, dozens of eyes are caught in the light.  They do not hesitate but charge with a flurry of squeaks! Oh RATS!!!


ooc: someone roll initiative for the group. Map updated! 

It seems a bit late, but Delta gives it a try, crying out in the tongue of the burrowing rodents attacking them...

"Stop and I bring you food, lots of food, lots and lots!!!"

OOC

07:09, Today: Janek rolled 20 using 1d20.  Group initiative.

Dang, wasted a natural. LOL

Even as Delta squeaks out to the rats, she hears a deeper set of squeaks come from around the broken wall, no mere rat, it commands them to attack and attack they do. The rats are very fast and scurry up the stairs, there are a dozen of them, three each attack Vala, Tanyl, and Delta. Vala's armor protects her, but Tanyl is bit twice (-3 hp's), and Delta bit once (-1 hp).



Round One:

Battle stats and Marching Order

PC       Class        Level    HP     AC

Vala     Fighter         1     11     2
Tanyl    Mage/Theif      1     6/3    4
Delta    Fghtr/Illnst   1/1    9/8    2
Matthias Cleric          1     10     6
Janek    Fghtr/Theif    1/1    10     3

Players may counterattack, you are in marching order so may need to move forward and spread out on the stairs for certain actions.


This message was last edited by the GM at 19:21, Thu 03 Sept 2020.

Janek throws a dagger at a rat.

11:26, Today: Janek rolled 14 using 1d20+2 with rolls of 12.  Throw Dagger.
11:27, Today: Janek rolled 2 using 1d4 with rolls of 2.  Damage.

And the 2nd dagger flies off to the floor.

11:41, Today: Janek rolled 4 using 1d20+2.  Dagger 2.

This is not a situation Tanyl wants to be in.  Given that he's in close proximity to the rats, he feels has little choice but to engage them in melee.

With sword in one hand and dagger in the other, he tries to slice a rat.  He succeeds once.


20:41, Today: Tanyl Miaras rolled 16,3 using d20+1,d8.  Round 1, sword.
20:42, Today: Tanyl Miaras rolled 1,4 using d20-1,d4.  Round 1, dagger.
NOTE: The second attack was not a roll of 1; it was a roll of 2 that ended up a 1 due to the penalty.

"Damnation..." Delta yells as she gets nipped. Stretching out her hand she sprays a wide swath of the rats with potent and vibrant colors... if possible she will also draw her blade, while trying to side step and let the others move forward.

OOC Color spray not sure if I need to roll anything, spell description is a bit vague.
This message was last edited by the player at 02:21, Thu 03 Sept 2020.

'Get off me!' Vala yells as the vermin infest her. The barbarian slashes with her sword but clearly neither warrioress nor weapon or best suited to fighting the tiny creatures.

---

OOC:
10:57, Today: Vala rolled 11 using 2d4+3.  Damage.

10:56, Today: Vala rolled 4 using 1d20+1.  Attack with the Starblade.

Matthias is no stranger to rats--they are a common sighting throughout the city and, save for the diseases they sometimes carry, pose little threat to Stormhavians. So, he doesn't startle much upon first seeing them in the crypt. He expected as much.

However, when the deeper shriek emanated from the wall and the rats rushed forward to attack (highly unusual behavior), the cleric expects something more sinister than common city rats at work. He grasps his holy symbol, the Cog of Civilization, and splashes a small amount of holy water in the air. Doing so, Matthias bestows a blessing on his party, a boon against the chaos that has despoiled the crypt.

Radiant waves of envigorating energy flow out from the cleric and wash over his companions.

"Defenders of the light, fight, fight!" he calls out in support of his companions.

OOC: Cast Bless. All PCs gain a +1 on attack rolls. Lasts 6 rounds.

Janek throws two daggers, one of them hitting and killing a giant rat.  Tanyl tries to attack with both hands, killing one of the rats attacking him, but missing wildly with the other.  Delta speaks arcane words and there is a flashing of lights around the rats fighting her, two of which drop dazed to the ground and lay there unconscious. Vala swings with her sword but is unable to track down the quick ratlings facing her.  Matthias speaks words of prayer and everyone feels a blessing upon them!

The remaining rats spread out and go on the attack.  The three on Vala try once again to bite her but have no luck.  The two remaining on Tanyl smell fresh blood and both manage to get minor bites on the elf, there is a spurt of blood and Tanyl winces in pain (-2 hps).  The one remaining on Delta, frightened by the colored lights, leaps at her throat and buries its long yellow teeth there (-3hps).  One each leap at Janek and Matthias but are unable to injure them.   Even as the battle rages, and barely noticed in the chaos, two more larger rats come around the far corner followed by a ratman, walking on its hind legs and carrying a sword.



Round Two:

Battle stats and Marching Order

PC       Class        Level    HP     AC

Vala     Fighter         1     11     2
Tanyl    Mage/Theif      1     6/1    4
Delta    Fghtr/Illnst   1/1    9/4    2
Matthias Cleric          1     10     6
Janek    Fghtr/Theif    1/1    10     3

Enemy Status: 8 giant rats remain, 2 dead, 2 stunned.  2 Vermin and 1 Wererat just arrived.

Players are UP, remember you have +1 on your attack rolls for the next 6 rounds.

Feeling pretty unlucky, Delta swings her sword at the rat who bit her...


12:34, Today: Delta rolled 13 using 1d20.  attack with sword.
Hits AC7
12:37, Today: Delta rolled 5 using 1d8.  damage of hit.
Meant if, not of.
Damn, these things should need a 19 to hit me, the dice clearly hate me!

Janek will swing at the nearest rat and slice him in two.


07:07, Today: Janek rolled 11 using 1d20+1.  Attack.
07:08, Today: Janek rolled 9 using 2d8.  Damage.

OOC
Fingers like to double click.  I need to train them.

Gritting her teeth Vala slices at the rats with the Starblade, gripping the hilt with both hands.

---

OOC:
22:15, Today: Vala rolled 8 using 2d4+3.  Damage.
22:15, Today: Vala rolled 17 using 1d20+2.  Attack with the Starblade.

"I . . . don't . . . like . . . this!" Tanyl mutters through gritted teeth as he literally fights for his life.


20:22, Today: Tanyl Miaras rolled 21,2 using d20+2,d8.  Round 2, sword.

20:23, Today: Tanyl Miaras rolled 11,3 using d20,d4.  Round 2, dagger.



OOC: At the first opportunity to safely do so, Tanyl will get out of melee.
This message was last edited by the player at 01:24, Fri 04 Sept 2020.

Matthias steps away and kicks at the crazed rat now scurrying at its feet. This seems to have little effect deterring the tenacious vermin, so he sweeps his mace like a broom in an effort to take the rodent out.


OOC: I assume a 9 misses...

11:19, Today: Matthias rolled 9,5 using d20+2,d6+2.  mace vs rat.

Vala continues attacking the furry vermin, swinging and slicing with fury.

---

OOC: Second attack

20:06, Today: Vala rolled 6 using 2d4+3.  Damage.

20:05, Today: Vala rolled 17 using 1d20+2.  Attack with the Starblade

Vala gets the rhythm of these rodents and swings her sword twice, twice cutting a rat in half!  Tanyl lands a solid blow killing one of the two on him.  And Delta manages to kill the last rat fighting her, the other two are still unconscious.  Matthias and Janek both make swings but the rats evade them with quickness!

The rats attack!  Snapping and leaping.  The leader ratman wielding his sword  and his two vermin friends advance and attack Vala as well.  Despite all the snapping, swinging and clawing, only one of the giant rats manages to draw blood, biting Vala in leg (-3phs).

Though he has a rats head, and speaks with a strange tone, the Ratman laughs even as he misses with his sword. "Most people die before they come to the crypts, looks like you plan on just dying in one, how considerate!"


Round Three:

Battle stats and Marching Order

PC       Class        Level    HP     AC   THAC 7   THAC 6

Vala     Fighter         1   11/8     2     13       14
Tanyl    Mage/Thief      1     6/1    4     14       15
Delta    Fghtr/Illnst   1/1    9/4    2     13       14
Matthias Cleric          1     10     6     13       14
Janek    Fghtr/Thief    1/1    10     3     13       14

Enemy Status: 4 giant rats remain, 6 dead, 2 stunned  AC: 7
              2 Vermin   AC: 7
              1 Wererat  AC: 6

Players are UP, remember you have +1 on your attack rolls for the next 5 rounds.

Angling to find an angle where she can get the leaders face isolated, Delta attempts another spray to his face!

Janek swings at the nearest rat, but just can't seem to find his target.



07:18, Today: Janek rolled 5 using 1d20+1 with rolls of 4.  Attack.

Tanyl skewers the last rat facing him, almost turning it into a rat-ka-bob.

15:13, Today: Tanyl Miaras rolled 22,1 using d20+2,d8.  Round 3, sword.
NATURAL 20 -- so max damages of 8

Having no foe left in front of him, the elf whirls slightly and launches his dagger at one of the rats fighting Matthias.


17:35, Today: Tanyl Miaras rolled 15,3 using d20+4,d4.  Round 3, thrown dagger.

He then withdraws slightly, putting some space between himself and the melee in the hope of having a round of not fighting in close combat.

Vala hisses in pain and redirects her sword against the giant rat that attacked her.

---

OOC:
00:20, Today: Vala rolled 5 using 2d4+3.  Damage.

00:20, Today: Vala rolled 18 using 1d20+2.  Attack with the Starblade.

Vala swing her mighty sword and another rat is killed.  Tanyl in a display of skills cuts down the last rat in front of him and spinning, throws the dagger in his off hand but throws it well, killing the rat engaged with Matthias.  Delta casts another spells sending bright lights at the Ratman, who adverts his eyes just in time to avoid them.  Matthias finding himself without a few, assesses his choices.  Janek swings and misses again, frustration at the quickness of the rat beginning to show in the dwarf's face.

The Ratman swings and nicks Vala with just the tip of the sword (-1 hp). With Tanyl faded back from the fight, the two vermin leap at Delta but the gnome proves too quick for them and they bite into air.  The rat on Janek manages a nip to his hand (-1 hp). The two stunned rats are beginning to stir.


Round Four:

Battle stats and Marching Order

PC       Class        Level    HP     AC   THAC 7   THAC 6

Vala     Fighter         1   11/7     2     13       14
Tanyl    Mage/Thief      1     6/1    4     14       15
Delta    Fghtr/Illnst   1/1    9/4    2     13       14
Matthias Cleric          1     10     6     13       14
Janek    Fghtr/Thief    1/1   10/9     3     13       14

Enemy Status: 2 giant rats remain, 8 dead, 2 stunned  AC: 7
              2 Vermin   AC: 7
              1 Wererat  AC: 6

Matthias can take 2 actions this round as he took none last round.

Players are UP, remember you have +1 on your attack rolls for the next 4 rounds.


This message was last edited by the GM at 20:36, Tue 08 Sept 2020.

Matthias nods at Tanyl, says a brief word of thanks, and disengages from the now skewered rat. He strides his way into the fray to intercept one of the giant rats and swings his mace with much greater skill this time. To Matthias' reckoning, it appears to be a solid hit and should be enough to take the rodent out. If this is the case, he springs forward an attacks another giant rat; otherwise, he focuses his follow-up attack on the same giant rat.

The second strike is equally as effective--both solid hits.

OOC: Hit ACs 1 and 4 for 7 and 8 points of damage, respectively.


10:32, Today: Matthias rolled 19,7,16,8 using d20+2,d6+2,d20+2,d6+2 with rolls of 17,5,14,6.  attacks/damage.

'This one thinks he's human,' Vala mutters as she swings her sword twice at the bipedal rat. The barbarian winces as she moves, her accumulated nicks and bruises beginning to tell.

---

OOC: 20:29, Today: Vala rolled 11 using 2d4+3.  Damage #2.

20:29, Today: Vala rolled 9 using 2d4+3.  Damage #1.

20:29, Today: Vala rolled 18 using 1d20+2.  Attack with the Starblade #2.

20:29, Today: Vala rolled 16 using 1d20+2.  Attack with the Starblade #1.

DIE YOU STUPID RAT!  and he does.

06:32, Today: Janek rolled 20 using 1d20+1.  Attack.
06:33, Today: Janek rolled 6 using 2d8 with rolls of 5,1.  Damage.

Deciding the party doesn't need more rats to deal with, Tanyl produces two daggers and whips them at the de-stunning pair.

His effort is less satisfying -- and less dramatic -- than the previous round's.


16:06, Today: Tanyl Miaras rolled 12,3 using d20+4,d4.  Round 4, thrown dagger 1.

16:06, Today: Tanyl Miaras rolled 7,3 using d20+4,d4.  Round 4, thrown dagger 2.

NOTE: I don't know if there's a bonus for their stunned status, so I didn't include one.

This message was last edited by the player at 21:07, Mon 07 Sept 2020.

Rushing over to the two stunned rats, Delta will slit their throats with her long sword, if either survived Tanyl's daggers.




My actions are based on the idea that both awake giant rats have already been killed. If I am incorrect, I will adjust

Matthias begins the round with two massive hits with his mace, bashing two rats to death.  Janek kills the one that's been dodging him, and Tanyl and Delta combine to kill the two that are waking up and about to rejoin the fray.  Vala strikes the ratman twice, and his cruel features go from angry to surprise to blank as he slumps lifeless to the ground.

With the leader dead, the only remaining vermin turns tail and flees.

The group stands, surrounding by dead rats, blood, and at the foot of steps, a man, maybe in his forties or fifties.  Bloodied and dead but returned to his former human form, tattered though it be, he appears to be wearing a uniform of some kind.


ooc: Battle ended!  I will update the crypt map in a moment showing the whole of the crypt.

A quick search of the crypt reveals a large tunnel entrance around the corner, the state of the crypt with bones and rat poop show this has been their lair for some time now.

"Could it be that we just found what has been digging into the crypts?"

Tanyl retrieves his daggers, then examines the dead man's uniform.

Janek also picks up his daggers and cleans them.

"Seems to me this hole is a lot bigger than the ones we found in the other crypts."

Delta gasps for breath, and checks her wounds.

" I sure hope Reverend Blackthorn can do something about these bites. I hear rat bites can give you a nasty fever."

Stepping over to Tanyl she also examines the body, and the uniform, wondering if it is the same kind that the guard who hired them wears.

Vala cleans the Starblade. The barbarian looks winded but exhilarated at having a proper fight.

'The ratmen need to bite you to infect you right?' She asks the others, nudging the body with the toe of her boot.

The uniform is pretty torn and now bloodied but you've seen them around.  Workers for the city, street cleaners, lamp lighters, trash men, and the like.  You can make out a name on the patch: Gordo, Gorda, something close to that.

The large hole is around 8 feet wide and tall and goes steeply down, not a straight fall, more like a slide.

Tanyl "remembers" that he has been bitten multiple times.  His immediate concern is not disease, but rather the state of his overall health.  Wincing in pain, he says:

"I'm not in any condition to go exploring those burrows."

Matthias surveys the aftermath of the battle--dead rats everywhere, the strange ratman sanitation worker, and most importantly, his wounded companions.

Taking note of the uniform, Matthias comments, "Unfortunate what happened to this man. Let's  hope there are not others." He makes this remark while surveying the 8-foot hole.

Turning his attention to Tanyl, he comments, "Allow me see your wounds. I have had some training and may be able to offer assistance."

Assuming Tanyl agrees, Matthias will attempt to clean and dress the elf's wounds as best he is able and then will administer divine healing.

OOC: Cast Cure Light Wounds, healing 5 hit points on Tanyl

Bleeding, but still walking, Delta searches the body for any missing heirlooms, coins, or hard candy. Or anything else.

'Do we need to pour holy water over it, or stick a silver dagger through its heart or something?' Vala asks. 'Or is that vampires? Do wererats come back from the dead?'

While searching the corpse, Delta wonders the same thing.

"I have only rumors and folklore to go one, but I didn't think we could even hit the darn thing, so it might not be what we think it is. I am all for taking the body the visit the Good Reverend. He should know more. Pluys hopefully he could help me with my injuries."

Matthias had not noticed Delta had been injured during the battle, but as soon as he hears her comment on her wounds, he approaches her.

"Where are your hurt?"

Matthias will assess the gnome's injuries. In the event she requires healing, he will clean and dress wounds and use healing magic (if necessary).

OOC: Cast CLW. Delta heals 3 hit points.

I would like to go into the hole, but you are correct, we should get the Reverend in here to see this.

Showing Matthias the bite marks on her throat, which is the most serious of the wounds, and several on her arms.

"Maybe thanks Padre, that feels better. "
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 20:30, Tue 08 Sept 2020.

Janek will take a look down the hole.  If it looks clear, and scalable, he will climb down.

Janek slides controlled down about 40 feet of passage before landing in a dirt room, clearly the den of the rats.  It is surprising clean for anyone who doesn't know much about rats.  There are three other tunnels leading off this 20 x 15 room, but alas they are all only about a foot wide.  In one corner, piles of cloth have been chewed up and packed to make a comfortable sleeping nest.  Within that Janek finds a sack filled with gold and silver nuggets, not coins of the realm,  two knives, a light crossbow, and a two foot iron bar, that has at its midpoint, a metal protrusion that looks like a four sided key wielded to the bar.

Waiting nervously at the top, Delta listens for sounds of trouble, fingers crossed that Janek is safe...

Janek will put all he finds into a sack, or his backpack, if he can't find one.  He will feel around in the smaller holes to see if there is anything interesting in them.

"Throw down a rope to haul me out.  I found some things down here and it will be hard to climb back up with it all."
This message was last edited by the player at 01:05, Fri 11 Sept 2020.

Delta looks to the others. "I don't have any rope? How about you guys?"

"I don't, sorry."

He leans over the hole. "What do you mean by 'some things'?"

"I hope it includes the missing heirlooms," Delta says to no one in particular.

As no one is carrying any rope, Delta scrambles down the slope and between the two of them, Janek and Delta  help each other up the steep dirt incline.

I think this iron bar might be some kind of key or entry device.

"Sorry. I don't have rope either," Matthias says, holding back a smile.

He didn't often find himself needing rope in the city and somehow found the notion of anyone having rope on hand to be amusing.

Tanyl looks at the bar quizzically.

Not the bar cares how Tanyl looks at it.

With no more rats alive, you take the body and few items of interest you found in the rats den and leave the crypt locking on the way out.  Taking the body back to the entry guard, he leads you to one of several doors just inside the entry wall of Ravenskeep.  Each is a small and very cold room, with stone tables.  This is where bodies are kept until they can be property laid to rest.

"Leave him with me, I'll summon the Reverend but like as not he'll not come till near sundown, if you come back around then you should be able to catch up with him".

"Should we remove his head, just in case?" Delta asks the others. "<We're not quite sure if shape-shifters like this guy stay dead.</green>" She finds this unexpected turn of events a bit disappointing as she had hoped to visit the Reverend, with the body, herself.

The guard raises an eyebrow, "A shapeshifter?  Any of you injured during the fight should get to town to the apothecary and get a dose of Belladonna.  It'll protect you from getting infected.Come at sundown and the Reverend will want to speak with you about this, ratman"

Even though the man is fairly sure ratman don't revive, he places a small silver cross on the man's forehead.

Did we find any of their missing heirlooms?

Delta heads off to the apothecary, with any of the party who feel the need to join her.

" I wish we knew more about what this was all about. Was he the grave-robber? So confusing."

Tanyl was bitten several times by the lesser rats, so to be safe he will go with Delta to the apothecary.

But first he again scrutinizes the bar Janek found.

In thinking it through, and after looking at the gold and silver nuggets, two knives, and sword they recovered from the rat nest, it seems highly unlikely these are the grave robbers, at least of heirlooms.  Maybe fresh corpses and bones for food.

Tanyl, having been raised in Stormhaven, after examining the iron bar is pretty sure he's seen one before, it opens sewer drains.


ooc: Although 1ADND does not use skill checks, I do, so if you are looking for a clue, or trying to see if your character knows something, Please roll a D20 when you post your attempt.  I'll adjust the chances based on your class, ability scores, etc.  I rolled these two and you both succeeded. :-).

Vala had also joined her gnome friend with a trip to the apothecary, lightly grumbling all the way. 'I hope people understand we defeated an evil ratman - I don't want to be known just as Vala the Ratslayer!'

"When I write my glorious saga of Vala, I shall make sure to make that clear."

"I wonder if the iron bar was stolen from the real grave robbers, suggesting there may be a gang of thieves in the sewers.  I hope not; I don't relish the thought of going down there."

"You know, I was thinking about that. Given his uniform, I think he must have worked down there."

Delta glances into a pastry shop they are passing, and licks her lips at the confectioneries there.

"I wonder how he got into the tomb though, did we miss a way from his hovel down in to the sewers? We shall have to explore further I think."

She sigh, and takes a drink from her water skin.

"I feel bad for the guy, being turned in to such a monster. Do you think we should sit vigil for the grave robbers again tonight?"

"I don't know what qualities a rat-man possesses.  But rats can flatten themselves and get into spaces you thought impossible through holes you would not notice.  Under doors, around windows, and so forth."

The elf shrugs.

"As for tonight: another night in the cemetery would at least delay having to gone into the sewers.  But somehow, I fear that will be our ultimate destination."

Tanyl knows a reputable and fair apothecary nearby and soon everyone has had a spoonfull of some nasty tasting syrup that the owner assures them will ward off any ill effects of lanthrice. He throws in a few drops of a tincture that should help with any rat bite diseases.  For a mere 2 gp's each.

ooc: where do you set up "watch" for the night

Paying her two gold, Delta suggest they get something to eat before going back to meet the good Reverend.

Depending on the time of day when they return, they might check another tomb or two.

Unless someone found a flaw with the previous nights set up, Delta suggests they repeat the same locations.

Janek pays for his medicine and has a think about tonight.

Matthias had been contemplative through most of the day, or, perhaps just tired. In any event, he remained mostly within his own thoughts. When talk comes around to their second night's plan, Matthias chimes in, "I don't see any reason to change up what we did last night. We watch through the night, see if anything unusual happens, and go from there."

Matthias readily agrees to the idea of getting something to eat prior to seeing the Reverend. "Wouldn't hurt to wash up a bit, as well," he says while eyeing his wounded companions' blood-soaked clothing.

A blush crosses Delta's face, suddenly aware of what a mess she is.

"I have a spare pair of cloths at the inn, might be easier to change than wash. I think I can pay the tavern to wash these out."

"And we still have the easy job of cataloguing the tombs available," Tanyl points out.

Washed and having a quick bite to eat, it is only about an hour till dusk when you arrive back at the guard tower to Ravenskeep.  Reverend Blackthorn is already there, sitting and conversing with a guard, it is not Deek who've you have met several times.

Seeing you he waves you in, "I am told you have requested my presence, have you finished your work so quickly?"

"No, not even close by my estimation, but we did find something, or should I say someone one, interesting"

Nodding to the guard, she asks to be let in to see the body. She is a bit concerned that it might not be there!

Janek whispers to Delta,

Delta nods to Janek, but waits till they get into the room with the corpse to ask.

Before their meeting with the Reverend Blackthorn Vala draws Matthias aside. The warrioress looks a little awkward. 'Uh, I feel embarrassed asking for this for rat bites but I would like a little healing magic if you could spare any?'

Matthias lowers his eyes and stares at the ground for a moment before lifting his his eyes to meet Vala's and says, "I am sorry. I did not see you that you were wounded. I must rest before I am to cast any spells again."

"You fought valiantly during the battle and bore you wounds without complaint," he says while smiling and shooting a quick glance at Delta and Tanyl, "I did not even know you were winded, let alone wounded. But let me see your wounds, just in case..."

After examining the wounds, he offers a hopeful prognosis, "Just a few scratches, really..."

OOC: Matthias has already cast 3 1st level spells, so he's out for the day.

He will use an Action Point to offer an Inspiring Word, which will heal 4 hit points

Tanyl either doesn't see Matthias's glance or ignores it; either way, the result is the same and there's no way to tell the difference.

The Reverend has Derrin, the new guard let you all into the room, before sending him back to the gatehouse.  He examines the body looking at the dried bloody wounds, at his uniform.  before asking you what happened?

Assuming the tale is told, he lowers his head while listening.

"It is sad for this man, but you have freed him from this disease.  I will make inquiries to find his family and friends.  It is blessed thing you have done, though it may not feel like it to you this day.  The other cemeteries we've been surveying also had some evidence of rodent disturbance, looks like you have eliminated the nest, that too is a blessing.  Delta, may I see what you notes you have taken thus far? ......Ah, yes, yes, these are very good, excellent work.  You see now that you've begun what desperate need we have to restore these crypts. Speaking of which, Matthias, if I supplied you with the holy water, would you perform blessings on each crypt you survey.  It may be some time before actual restorations can be done and if the ground is sanctified as hollow, it will keep at bay Orcus' influence on the dead."

Delta beams at the Reverend's comments over her notes. They had only begun to deal with the cemetery, and the main task, finding the grave-robbers, had barely begun, but it felt like a success own right to earn his approbations.

She waits until the two holy men had conferred, then brings forward the concern on many of their minds, asking for some healing...

The old Reverend smiles at Delta, then chuckles, "It's been awhile since someone mistook me for a real cleric, I thank you for the honor.  You must know, I possess no such abilities, I am, in terms of our church, more of a scrivener, or factor.  Young Matthias here far outranks me in regards to that branch of the clergy".

Her demeanor visibly dims at the disappointing news.

" That was sadly the kind of support we had hoped to receive. We may have to take a night off then, to get back into fighting trim. Perhaps you could pay us now for the tombs we have surveyed?"

She didn't say it out loud, but she was beginning to doubt his veracity, in this and perhaps other ways.

Tanyl's attention seems to rise and he looks at the reverend, nodding slightly in encouragment.

Reverend Blackthorn nods, "Totally understandable, it is a large task, and no deadline. Let's let this man lie in rest, let's return to the gatehouse".

Doing so, the man pulls a small leather book from his robes, and with a quill and ink, he pens out a note before placing a wax blob on it and using his ring to put his official seal on the paper. Which he hands to Delta.

"Take this to any factor in town and they will pay your wages to date.  I look forward to seeing the final reports".

Once everyone has had a chance to talk to Master Blackthorn, and they are waiting outside, Delta tries to get a consensus from the others.

"I feel we should take a night off from doing guard duty. What say you all?"

If they agree, she will attempt to cash in their pay and divide it among them. She herself isn't that hurt at this point, and will not argue if the others opt to do guard duty that night, but she would prefer to rest.

"I think that's a good idea.  Some wine would be good, now that we have the coin."

Janek says, "I agree that a night's rest would be very useful.  It would help us to be more alert when we open the next crypt.  We just don't know what will be there."

Returning to town, Delta spots a factor's house and exchanges the slip of paper for 120 gold pieces.  Returning to your inn, a bath, some clean clothes, some dinner, wine or ale, and a good nights rest leaves you all completely healed and feeling refreshed in the morning.


ooc: for simplicity sake, unless someone needs the funds immediately, I'll plan to divide up all the spoils at the end of each adventure when I post Xp's.  This is entirely for my convenience so if someone needs their share of the treasure at mid point, let me know (like you just need x gp's to afford that magic y you've been eyeing.

A restless night awaits Delta when she finally turns in. Too many things feel like 'clues' and so few of them turn out to be. She didn't know what to think about the man who had passed himself off as a Reverend, but she did feel betrayed. When she finally did drift off, her dreams were chaotic, and when she awoke she got out her dream journal and wrote about the parade of people lined up to rob a giant graveyard. Tombs and headstones went on for miles, a low mist everywhere hiding the chittering of rats, discussing how tasty human flesh was.
At the gate, Blackthorn laughed a rather unpleasant laugh, as he collected money for tickets to the graverobbers carnival. Unable to stop them, Delta watched on in horror as they stole memories and heirlooms from corpses too dead to defend themselves, but still capable of weeping and wailing and calling out recriminations. They didn't blame the graverobbers though, nor did they blame the giant black raven at the gate selling indulgences and access to their restring places, they blamed Delta, calling her out for failing to protect them.
It was quite upsetting...
She headed down early for breakfast, and drowned her guilt in syrup and jam.
This message was last edited by the player at 12:01, Tue 15 Sept 2020.

Matthias awakes from a restless night of what anyone would fail to properly categorize as sleep, but youth wins the day and he is soon on his way to beginning a new day. Another day in the crypts awaits and the acolyte must keep reminding himself such tasks are important for the safety of the city. Nonetheless, the whole business is rather...morbid...to include the creepy Reverend.

But, Matthias will dutifully do his bidding.

The cleric joins his companions early in the morning. It's obvious at a quick glance the young man had a rough night, dark circles under puffy eyes, but he does his best to remain upbeat and positive.

"Morning, all," he says by way of greeting.

Once pleasantries are out of the way, Matthias asks to see his companions wounds. "Let me have a look, please..."

OOC: Matthias has 3 - 1st level spells. Does anyone need healing before we enter crypts?

I think I recovered my missing health with the good night's sleep, thanks.

"Many thanks for your offer Padre, but I am not in need at the moment."

It is clear Delta had put fresh bandaging on her bites, and the blessing of Matthias the previous day had done wonders for her as well.

She had gotten the impression Vala was in need of his ministering, and hoped she would arrive soon.

Digging in to her third stack of pancakes, Delta wondered if she would need to purchase new (and broader) clothing sometime in the not too distant future.

"Thank you, but I am fine.  And I appreciate you healing me yesterday."

Vala arrives. The warrioress had slept well but she looked distracted scratching at her bites as she arrived. She smiles at Matthias's offer of healing. 'Thanks. So are we thinking we'll face more ratmen today?'

Returning to the crypt of the ratman, a thorough search and drawings are made.  Nothing else of interest is found, the place is a disaster.  The three wooden caskets are long since broken open and emptied, nothing but dust remain in them, like as not the occupants bones are scattered on the floor with others as well.

After leaving and locking it behind you, proceeding to Karras, Vala leads the way down.  This is a large crypt with three stone coffins.  Dark so a torch or lamp is needed it is in fairly good shape.  The coffins appear to have never been opened,  only some crumbling of one corner of the flooring shows the age of this crypt.

ooc: map updated

Tanyl shrugs and checks out the crumbling corner.

When they first arrive, Delta does a quick survey of all the tombs to see if the graveyard had been plundered on the night they weren't there.

While in the tomb of Mandra-oias, Delta asks Matthias if there is anything that should be done for the bones, and if they should make some effort in the future to close off the main hole.

Once they have moved on to the Crypt of the family Karras she searches the tomb for rat warrens.

"Should we open the tombs, in order to assay the potential temptation to looters? A quick sketch of anything of value could come in handy later, if we then have to seek to return it later."

The only reason I can see to open them is to look for the amulet.

"Let us just survey the tombs, as we've been hired to do, and report on their status to the Reverend. He will see to the proper disposition," the cleric responds.

When it comes to the question of prying open tombs, Matthias is of the mindset this is unnecessary. "We were asked to survey the state of the tombs. I can't see where there is any value to opening sealed tombs."

Matthias concedes he doesn't understand their mission very well. "I still am unsure why we are looking for a pendant inside of the cemetery...

If the pendant was stolen, I find it highly unlikely we are going to find it in one of the tombs. Why would graverobber then hide it in a different tomb and not take it to a fence or covet it within their personal coffers?"

The whole notion seemed preposterous to the acolyte, but perhaps he just wasn't wise enough to see the bigger picture.

"I guess my assumption here," Delta explains to Janek and Matthias, "is that we might not stop the grave-robbers from future success, and if we knew what they were going to steal, it would be easier to find it, if wee knew what the items looked like."

There isn't any special to see, the floor in one corner has crumbled.  Janek's knowledge of such things indicates a failing of the substructure below the floor.  Perhaps from water intrusion from some source either below ground or maybe a landscaping issue above, a place that might hold water.

After spending some time sketching out the Karras crypt, there seems little else to do there.


ooc: Vala, roll me a d20. 

Does that mean Delta's survey of the graveyard found nothing out of the ordinary?

Yes, nothing unusual from the previous days.

With nothing left of interest in Karras, you lock up after taking notes and doing drawings, before finishing up the southern section with Agathangelou.  It takes both Janek and Tanyl awhile to get this stubborn lock open it is so old and rusted.  Still strong and both try several times before working it open.

Heading down, Vala leads and is just about to say that the floor of this tomb looks unusual when her foot slips and falls.  Luckily, her balance is good enough that she only slides down a couple of steps with the sound of a splash.  The tomb below is nearly half way full of clear icy cold water!


ooc: map updated!

"Clear water?  That seems . . . strange."

Tanyl looks about trying to locate a source for the water.

Janek looks to see if there is a point on the outside of the crypt that is lower than the floor, is it on a rise?

Sketching what she can from here, Delta makes a note of their finding.

" Clear water? Could this be on purpose?"

She examines the water, splashing it, and looking at the light going over the top of the water, checking for any inconsistency that would prove it an illusion.

"Might be natural," Matthias says while kneeling down to examine the water more closely.

"Maybe just an overflowing underground spring..." Matthias tries to remember the last time it rained, thinking perhaps the ground here just became too saturated. His mind naturally wants to eliminate the obvious before leaping to fantastical conclusions.

" Perhaps. Even probably I guess. But why only this one? Probably doesn't matter, we'll report it. Shall we move on?"

Matthias takes one last look at the water-filled tomb, shakes his head, "Yes. Take note of it and let's proceed to the next."

A rather wet Vala cups her hand, scoops up a palm full of water and takes a tentative sip.

Vala finds the water cold and clean and refreshing.

Between Janek and Delta, both who have racial instincts for such things, a search of the area reveals to them that indeed, the southern part of the cemetery, although very flat looking, is the lowest part of the cemetery, and Agathangelou's crypt, the lowest even in the southern quarter.  Further, above ground, between Aga's and Karras, is a growth of brush, that hides a depression, brush that loves water.   Clearly, some water management is needed to correct his issue.

Notes made, crypt locked.  The southern quarter is complete.  Having started early, it just  past noon, lots of day left.


ooc: where to next?

East seems fine, start with the ones that were already broken in to I think. Eleven?

Lead on.

Matthias nods in agreemebrt with Delta and Janek's proposal.

"Yes. Let's have a look at the crypts that have already been vanadalized," he says in support.

"I agree."

You quickly get the sense that the eastern part of the cemetery was for wealthy families.  Both Pomieux and Gatak have permanent lights of magical flames.  Both are large, having extra features such as statues, intricate tiling on the floor, and the like.

Pomieux features two coffins at the end of a large elaborate crypt. Both show signs of being recently forced open.  Inside, there are signs of the dead having been disturbed, though you cannot guess at what might have been removed.

Gatak has no coffin at all but does have urns. Cremation is not unheard of but rare, clearly the four members of the Gatak family who rest here were fans of it.

Both are in very good shape given their age, however, it takes a good while for Delta to draw these up and take notes given their size and complexity.

ooc: Both crypts are shown in the maps.  Continue in the east, or go to the next vandalized crypt.  It equivalent of about 3pm now so you have time for at least 2 more before it begins to darken

I suggest we finish the eastern side before moving on.

That makes the most sense to me as well.

"Tanyl, please examine these next two very carefully. The owners were wealthy, they might have left an unpleasant surprise for anyone who wants to visit without an invitation."

Query, did the first two show any signs of problems for those who broke into them?

Tanyl searches for traps.

Query, did the first two show any signs of problems for those who broke into them?

answer: no, no traps evident in those two.

When you enter the Lykuas crypt, it is also lit by two everylasting flames, and has two statues, but apparently neither a coffin, nor any urns.   Tanyl though, on the lookout for traps, finds instead a hidden door which lead into another room that is larger, with a single everylasting flame but four undisturbed coffins.  It is another nicely appointed and more elaborate crypt, but has not been vandalized.

As you enter Catuliex, you note it is dark and requires a torch.  Going down the staircase, it ends with the statue of a person in a robe hooded so there is no face.  There are continuing stairs to both the right and left of the statue.

ooc: maps have been updated.

Sketching everything, Delta is quite impressed with the fineness of the Lykuas tomb, with the secret room.

"Would be better if they had a faux-coffin in here."

The hooded figure sends a shiver down her spine. She tilts her lantern to shine light up under the hood, wondering if a face was carved or not.

"Going left first good for everyone? Tanyl, would you please lead the way?"

I say we go right.  Opinions?

Delta shrugs. Not sure why Right was preferred by Master Janek, but she doesn't argue, instead pointing her lamp down the stairs. After completing her sketch of course.

"As good an answer as any under the circumstances," Tanyl says, shrugging.

We will do both sides, but a quick choice saves time debating.

It's all good for Delta, she was just a little confused why her quick decision hadn't been good enough.

"After you, Master Tanyl."

She shines her light down the right stairs.

Heading down into the righthand crypt, several things of note are seen.  First, in the center is what appears to be a compass, with a skull as its center-piece.  Perhaps decorative, or some homage to those buried here.  There is a raised stage at one end several steps leading up to it, that has a well of water against the wall.   There are two nicely built wooden coffins that are well maintained.  But mostly, you note the whispy white threads of webs hanging from the walls and across the coffins.


ooc: map is updated.

At the sight of the white whispy threads, Delta stops and shines the bullseye lanterns beam into the corners of the room, first top, then bottom.

"I hate spiders."

Interesting.  Three things that need looking at.  The well, the compass and the coffin without cobwebs.  Of course, we haven't seen them before, so we might want to look at the webs also.

Janek goes up the stairs to check out the well, looking for traps.

Anyone want to taste the water?

Vala shoots a sympathetic look at Delta. 'Me too. When I was a girl I went on a hunting trip with my brother. A spider crawled in my ear one night while we were sleeping. Gods I'd rather face an army of ogres than go through that again!'

Vala's tale clearly freaks out Delta, whose entire body spasms at the thought of a spider climbing him her ear.

"Eeew! I may sleep with a hat pulled down over my ears for a year or two. Eeeew!"

Janek will take a cup from his pack and fill it with water.  He will pour a bit onto the floor to make sure it isn't acid.  If not acid, he will dip a finger into it.  If there is no effect, he will take a small sip and spit it out onto the floor.

'Don't worry it came out the other side eventually,' Vala says quickly, clearly trying to sound reassuring to her friend. 'Anyway we might get lucky and be up against giant spiders this time!'

Sounds crunchy

Janek laughs from the dais.

Tanyl chuckles as well.

He is studying the wispy webs, trying to determine if they lead to something more substantial.  Like actual web.  And actual spiders.

Janek investigates the water and finds it cold, clear, somewhat salty tasting, but not harmful.  At the close range, there are symbols along the edge of the well, dedicated to Melora, gooddess of the sea.

Tanyl discovers no spiders, but the webs are very strong and sticky.

Safe to assume what I was doing finds nothing as well?

In reply to Delta (msg # 306):

Ooc: nothing else to see.

Janek will take a look at the compass on the floor, looking for runes or other triggers.  He will check for moveable parts.

While doing that, he asks, "So, why the one coffin and not the other?"

Tanyl appears puzzled.

"Why one coffin what?" he asks.

The compass is really nicely made, it really solid, bolted together and made of steel and smooth sanded stone (the skull).  Given the salt water, Melora symbol, it seems indictive this was some symbol important to those buried here.  Perhaps a shield design for sailors or sail design for a ship.  It is embedded into the floor.

As you are investigating the room,  you don't notice until almost too late the sounds coming from the steps and walls and ceiling of the steps behind you.

ooc: someone roll a d10 initiative (first one I get counts for the party), the spiders are coming and they are hungry.

Why are their cobwebs on the one and not the other?  Was one robbed recently?  Was one targeted by spiders? 

06:27, Today: Janek rolled 7 using 1d10.  Party initiative.

The spiders are not HUGE, but about six inch long in body, more than 18 inches if you include their long hairy legs.  They are fast though, and come running, jumping, nearly flying across the room, some jumping nearly 30 feet to land on you, biting with their sharp fangs.  Though their fangs are not long, when they do bite, they burn like hell.  Nearly a dozen of them come fast.  Four leap onto Vala, only one managing a painful bite (3pts).  Three jump onto Tanyl with one biting really hard (4 pts).   One tries it luck with Delta but misses. Two attack Matthias with one biting (4pts).  And one jumps onto Janek and manages a perfect attack (4pts).





ooc:  Sorry to leave you hanging pre-combat, last 24 hours have been hectic at work!

Large Spiders:  AC:6  Hp's: 7, 6, 8, 9, 5, 7, 7, 7, 5, 3, 3

Poison is factored into the damage, it has no other effects other than being painful.

PC       Class        Level    HP      AC   THAC 6

Vala     Fighter         1     11/8     2     14
Tanyl    Mage/Thief      1     6/2      4     15
Delta    Fghtr/Illnst   1/1    9/9      2     14
Matthias Cleric          1     10/6     6     14
Janek    Fghtr/Thief    1/1    10/6     3     14

PC's are UP

Delta draws her sword and swings, connecting with a glancing blow.


10:42, Today: Delta rolled 2 using 1d6.  damage.

10:42, Today: Delta rolled 17 using 1d20.  swing with my sword .

Janek swings his broad sword at the spider


06:37, Today: Janek rolled 16 using 1d20.  Swing at spider.
06:40, Today: Janek rolled 6 using 2d4.  damage.

Tanyl winces and vows to try to get some defensive or damage-dealing spells.

If he survives.

In the meantime, he does what he can: slashing out at as many spiders as he can.  But alas -- to no avail.


18:15, Today: Tanyl Miaras rolled 9,1 using d20+1,d8.  Long Sword.

18:16, Today: Tanyl Miaras rolled 12,2 using d20-1,d4.  Dagger.

Matthias cries out in alarm as the jumping, nearly-flying, kitten-sized arachnid  lands on his arm and delivers a painful bite.

"Eckkh!" he says while batting the spider off with his other hand. Once the spider is off, he quickly draws his mace and attempts to smash the thing into the ground. Unfortunately, his aim is well off and all he manages to do is smash the tile floor, perhaps denting his mace as well.


19:24, Today: Matthias rolled 4,5 using d20+1,d6+2 with rolls of 3,3.  attack damage vs spider.

Vala cries out in pain and as she fumbles with her sword shouts out oaths to various gods.

---

OOC: 02:22, Today: Vala rolled 12 using 1d20+1.  Attack with the Starblade.
12:12, Today: Vala rolled 5 using 1d20+1.  Attack with the Starblade #2.

Oof!
This message was last edited by the player at 11:13, Thu 24 Sept 2020.

Inexperience, or perhaps just a general dislike of spiders, is having an effect on the battle.  Vala, Tanyl, and Matthias all miss rather spectacularly.  Delta manages to nick the one spider facing her, and Janek actually kills the one he is fighting.

The spiders continue to attack fiercely.  One manages a nip on Tanyl (1hp).  One bites Matthias again (3hps).  And the one Matthias threw to the ground, attacks a now foeless Janek and manages a bite on him (3hps). The rest try their best to enjoy a sip of blood but all miss!



ooc:

Large Spiders:  AC:6  Hp's: 7, 6, 8, 9, 5, 7, 7, 7 (5), 5, 3, dead

Poison is factored into the damage, it has no other effects other than being painful.

PC       Class        Level    HP      AC   THAC 6

Vala     Fighter         1     11/8     2     14
Tanyl    Mage/Thief      1     6/1      4     15
Delta    Fghtr/Illnst   1/1    9/9      2     14
Matthias Cleric          1     10/3     6     14
Janek    Fghtr/Thief    1/1    10/3     3     14

PC's are UP

Tanyl appears on his way down . . . but at least he nicks an arachnid with his dagger.



09:54, Today: Tanyl Miaras rolled 7,3 using d20+1,d8.  Long Sword (15 to hit).
09:55, Today: Tanyl Miaras rolled 16,3 using d20-1,d4.  Dagger (15 to hit).

Delta swings again, but misses.

10:43, Today: Delta rolled 11 using 1d20.  swing round 2.

Janek was taken aback, fearful to lose life to spiders, but that didn't help his aim.

06:15, Today: Janek rolled 2 using 2d4.

06:15, Today: Janek rolled 11 using 1d20.  Attack.

Vala twisted desperately, trying to strike at the hideous creatures. The warrioresses usual skill seemed to have deserted her as her bastard sword cleaved only the air.

---

OOC: 02:16, Today: Vala rolled 2 using 1d20+1.  Attack with the Starblade.

As a bonus action, Janek uses his action point, effectively.


11:39, Today: Janek rolled 5 using 1d4+1.  Action point heal.

Tanyl heroically summons more energy . . . more life.


11:32, Today: Tanyl Miaras rolled 5 using 1d4+1.  Action Point: Healing.

Once again, Matthias tries to smash a spider with his mace but the creepy crawlies prove quite elusive...

12:04, Today: Matthias rolled 11,3 using d20+1,d6+2 with rolls of 10,1.  attack damage vs spider.

The battle, or lack of battle, rages on.  The five party members manage only one small nick of a spider, and the spiders do even worse, not landing a single bite!!!  Janek and Tanyl, both dig deep into their reserves and feel energy return to their tired arms and legs.




ooc:

Large Spiders:  AC:6  Hp's: 7, 6, 8, 9, 5 (2), 7, 7, 7 (5), 5, 3, dead

Poison is factored into the damage, it has no other effects other than being painful.

PC       Class        Level    HP      AC   THAC 6

Vala     Fighter         1     11/8     2     14
Tanyl    Mage/Thief      1     6/6      4     15
Delta    Fghtr/Illnst   1/1    9/9      2     14
Matthias Cleric          1     10/3     6     14
Janek    Fghtr/Thief    1/1    10/8     3     14

PC's are UP

Wishing there were a way to get a batch of them looking in her direction, Delta swings yet again at her foe, this time feeling a satisfying connection, deep into the torso of the monster-spider.

11:52, Today: Delta rolled 16 using 1d20 ((16)).

11:53, Today: Delta rolled 6 using 1d6 ((6)).

Janek swings and, in his frustration, bangs his sword into the dusty ground.


06:15, Today: Janek rolled 1 using 1d20.  Attack, round 3.

Cheeks practically glowing with humilation Vala's sword swings yet again encountered only air.

---

OOC: 21:43, Today: Vala rolled 5 using 2d4+3.  Damage #2.

21:43, Today: Vala rolled 8 using 1d20+1.  Attack with the Starblade #2.

21:43, Today: Vala rolled 8 using 2d4+3.  Damage #1.

21:42, Today: Vala rolled 10 using 1d20+1.  Attack with the Starblade #1.

Matthias grunts with growing frustration at his inability to smash these spiders into a bloody pulp. Then, he connects with a solid blow that hits with a satisfying splat sound. As much as he would like to celebrate killing the dumb spider, he keeps his focus and gets ready to do the same to another...

OOC: Hit for 7 damage.


16:21, Today: Matthias rolled 18,7 using d20+1,d6+2 with rolls of 17,5.  attack damage vs spider.