The common room of The Moorland Magpie was at first light busy. Lorna had laid out warm fresh bread. Outside the sky was clear with no sign of rain. Your retainers arrived early or for those that had slept in the common room they prepared their equipment and stood ready for the expedition.

The road travelled over the bridge and led west into the foothills of a mountain chain. The road although neglected showed signs of regular traffic. Nearer the river the road skirted a dank marsh from which the foothills rose. Once past the marsh the road threaded through a wooded forest. After several uneventful miles the road terminated at the mouth of a narrow box canyon that bisected a high cliff wall. Steep cliffs and tall mountains beyond the defile loomed overhead.

At the mouth of the canyon stood an old curtain wall that has crumbled in places, leaving large gaps. The gatehouse doors lay rotting on the ground before it and spaces between the rusty portcullis allowed easy access.

OOC As we have characters wearing plate mail I expect the fastest movement rate will be 60'

Seemingly without hesitation, or at least without any measurable reluctance, Barnabas the Prestidigitator had responded in equal measure before clasping his hand to the dwarf's. If he were to fear the man's personal fluids, what business did he have venturing below ground? Thus, they inked the pact of mutual and shared expectoration, bound by flesh. He just hoped that nobody had paid close attention, least of all the two ladies-at-arms.

OOC -2 SP for common room accommodations for B and N.

                                                          ~~~

At some point during their hike from the inn to ruined gatehouse, through marsh and into the narrow canyon, Ben had commented to Siward, "St. Ras already smiles upon us. The sky and way are both clear. Each step takes us closer to completing our duty."

When they reach the toppled gatehouse doors, he turns to the man among them in plate and raises his eyebrows as if to say, "You, there, lead the way."
This message was last edited by the player at 02:10, Mon 23 Nov 2020.

Teodore hefts his sword and shield as he looks at the gaps in the wall. Do they extend all the way to the ground? And does he see anybody in them peeking out at the party?

Fiene walked briskly, he seemed to be fit in any case.  He carried a long walking stick in one hand.  "A bit foreboding, don't you think?" He comments to no one in particular, as he walks to the gatehouse, peering in through the door frames.

The wall extended from the canyon wall from north to south. Near the canyon at the northern and southern ends the walls had been breached. Teodore can see rock strewn passages which allow entry to the canyon at both breaches. He sees no one in the passageways.

The passageway through the gatehouse was dark, the hallway was twelve foot high and around hundred foot long. No light managed to penetrate to the centre, the far end was visible as a doorway of light ahead.

Pulling up the rear, his hammer resting on his shoulder, the dwarf pulls tediously on Vitchna's rope.

Come on ol girl he says in hued tones.

The mule yanks on the rope with a twitch of her head.

Yes yes. I promise some sugar if all goes well.

The mule seems to acquiesce a hopeful glint in her eyes.

I'll find you a good spot.

The dwarf surveys the area looking up and down, side to side in an attempt to see possible danger or ambush spots.

Ooc -2sp. food and common room lodging
How much for food for Vitchna?  How much are some sugar cubes?

"Dwarfs read stone, don't they?" Fine asks Urkov.  "Is it safe?"

The mule hopefully followed Urkov in search of treats as the dwarf inspected the gatehouse. The gatehouse was constructed of mortared stone on the lower level and the upper level and roof of rough hewn timbers. The battlements above were broken in places and the graystone was splattered with pigeon droppings. Urkov spotted arrow slits evenly placed along the walls but no others signs of danger.

OOC 1sp will pay for stabling of Vitchna and plentiful supply of sweet treats

"Well, we've made it, haven't we?" Barnabas announces. "And, now, that we've made it, are we going to just stand around and gawk?"

It is said with too much sarcasm--whether by design or accident, it can't be said.

He retrieves his lantern from his pack, checks the oil well fount, and then lights the wick.

"Lead the way," he says, communicating this with less conviction verbally than he had by non-verbal means just a minute ago.

Fiene make sure Ermengard is near his person.  "I have a lantern as well, for when it gets darker." He carries his 10' staff  in his left hand, and a well balanced dagger for throwing in his right.

Rolled a 6 notices nothing

Its all old, and not crafted by dwarves, so I don't have much faith in it. I would take care.

Pointing

Those arrow slits would make a fine place to attack us though, unless any foe is bold enough to come at us head on.

Let me find a place for Vitchna to settle.

OOC Looking for a spot for Vitchna. Keeping an eye and ear out danger.

The area around the entry to the canyon is open, Vitchna can be left here but there's little cover for her not to be spotted.

Canyon-entry

OOC Squares = 10'

When you have decided which way to go I will need a party marching order. You can decide this in the OOC thread if its simpler.
This message was last edited by the GM at 07:29, Thu 03 Dec 2020.

Maybe it was foolish of him to try and catch up with the other adventurers at the canyon, but Valerian slipped and tumbled down loudly with a clattering of shale behind him. By some miracle he arrived at the foot of the adventurers unscathed.

He stood up and brushed off his robe.

"Good evening! I'm Valerian, apprentice wizard and aspiring adventurer!"

The fighter in plate mail looks at the newcomer, nodding as a greeting, only replying, "Teodore." After a moment, he looks at the others. "If we're ready, then?" He leads the group into the gatehouse.

Siward had smiled and nodded at Barnabas’ assessment of the weather and what it could mean in terms of St. Ras’ blessings. The acolyte had to agree that it seemed a good portent, a small confirmation that they were following the correct path. When they reached the canyon wall, he remained silent, having little knowledge of such things. Trusting in the assessments of his fellow adventurers, he readied himself and fell in step behind Teodore as he led the way into the gatehouse.

As he walked, he greeted the newcomer. ”Well met, Valerian. I am Siward, an acolyte of St. Ras. And I am thankful to have one with knowledge such as yours among us.”

Returning his attention to the dark structure ahead, he took a breath and muttered a quiet prayer, his hand resting on the handle of his war hammer.

The fighter Teodore led bravely at the front, accompanied by Siward the cleric. The pair passed through the gateway, two great ironbound doors had once stood here but now they were lay on the ground before the entrance, rotten and rusted. After the door they walked through the rusted portcullis, the portcullis was down but weather and other adventuring bands had taken their toll. Large gaps were caused by rust, saws and brute strength so that they could be easily passed through.

The passageway became darker the further they penetrated the gatehouse with the light from Ben's lantern flickering in the gloom.

OOC Without know exactly where Ben is in the marching order I'm not sure how far into the building you can see, but you probably can not yet see the middle ground.

Day: 1. Time: 9am. Turn: 1. Weather: Clear. Vision: 30' in darkness centred on Ben. Movement: 20'
This message was last edited by the GM at 09:21, Wed 25 Nov 2020.

As the darkness deepens, Fiene lights his lantern and he and Ermangard take a position behind the front line and lighting their way.

When the third magician had nearly tumbled into them and then introduced himself, Barnabas had just about remarked "another blessing" but then the words had caught in his throat. They could have easily been misinterpreted as sarcastic.

Instead he produces, "I do hope we three don't all intend to put the first to greet us to sleep."

                                                                          ~~~

Barnabas encourages the stalwarts in the lead to keep going, speaking softly lest he disturb any ancient horrors so early in day.

"I don't have that spell at my disposal." Fiene replies.  "I have one that improves my natural charm."  He says.  "If we come across an inhabitant, I was hoping to sway him to our side."

Gatehouse

The passed the central passageway. The gatehouse was in a poor state of repair and had been neglected. Creaking noises were heard above them. The passageway was well lit by Barnabas's and Fiene's lanterns. The passage was around sixty foot long and at the other end they emerged again into daylight.

The canyon was flanked on both sides by limestone walls that rose two hundred feet up. The floor of the canyon was a grassy meadow, interrupted by ruins and small stands of trees. The sound of falling water could be heard and cave mouths were visible on the walls of the canyon, some natural and some man made. Near to the closest tree a rabbit sat motionless atop a tree stump.

View from gatehouse
This message was last edited by the GM at 07:30, Thu 03 Dec 2020.

Fiene nods towards the rabbit.  "That is a good sign.  Something lives here anyway."

"I, too, can resort to such beguilement," Barnabas admits.

He adds, "I do not intend to do so today and I did not do so yesterday," while looking solemnly at Nerida.

When they emerge from gatehouse passage into the melancholic meadow with its juxtaposition of decay and verdure, Barnabas pauses to relish the scent of the valley air. Then, on a whim, he makes for the rabbit-occupied stump to give it a once over.

Urkov shouts

Wait don't go near that stump, that rabbit is unnatural.  It doesn't move nor breathe nor blink.  Something is wrong.

Teodore readies his sling and sends a stone at the stump, just to startle the rabbit into running.

OOC: Should I roll to hit it?

"You mean the rabbit?" Fiene asks?  "Dwarf eyes are good enough to see it blink from here?"

Proving himself to be rather reckless Barnabas entered the canyon and began to walk toward the innocent looking rabbit. The very young Nerida followed at his heels. The shout from Urkov gave her a fright and she froze on the spot as Barnabas continued alone.

Then the warrior Teodore skilfully readied his sling and fired a shot at the tree stump. The sling bullet struck the stump with a thwack loud enough to echo around the canyon. The noise was enough to scare the rabbit which hopped off the stump and dashed away to hide in the nearby ruins.

Day: 1. Time: 9:30am. Turn: 3. Weather: Clear. Vision: Daylight. Movement: 20'

"Dwarf eyes aren't so good, I guess."  Fiene comments, mostly to himself.   "What did you think it was, Urkov?" he asks.  He blows his lantern out, saving the oil for when it gets dark again.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:35, Fri 27 Nov 2020.

Urkov shakes his head mumbling. His thick fingers across his eyes rubbing his temples.

At the sound of the dwarf's cry, Barnabas's movement becomes arrested in mid-stride. He poses there as if petrified by a gorgon's glare. Then he winds back his movement, reversing his stride in an unintended comic fashion. Before long he's back with the group, as if nothing has happened.

He motions to the northeastern ruined building, waiting, this time, for the two warriors to lead.
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 20:39, Fri 27 Nov 2020.

From what the party can see as they look over at the ruins Barnabas points to is that they consist of tumbled stone walls, rotten timbers overgrown with weeds covered with drifts of fallen leaves.

OOC North is the top of the map. Did Ben mean to point to the North west?
This message was last edited by the GM at 16:15, Sat 28 Nov 2020.

Teodore readies sword and shield and heads for the ruined building Ben points out. He watches that little alcove to the north as he does.

Becoming a leader of sorts, or at least someone who demonstrated the party's wants Barnabas's wave of hand had the fighter Teodore headed in the indicated direction. Teodore had to walk about eighty foot to reach the ruins. All that remained of the ruins were tumbled down stone walls, rotten wooden timbers, all of this covered in a thick growth of weeds. The remains of the building were square in shape and fifty foot by fifty foot. Eighty foot away to the north Teodore saw a man-made entrance into the canyon wall, which he wary kept an eye on but saw nothing. Eighty foot to the west was another ruin, however that ruin had survived the passage of years better than the rest. The walls although fallen in places but still rose up to support the buildings roof.

Whilst Teodore began his exploration another adventurer walked through the gatehouse passageway and into the canyon.

OOC Introducing the newest member of the party Anfinn.

Was he psychic? Was he a bit ducal? Or was he just impetuous?

Leaving the first ruin to time, Ben nods toward the one that appeared to have been less bowed by its passage (the one 80' to the west). If he has noticed that another adventurer has slipped into their group, he gives no indication as he moves further westward.

Siward falls in step with Teodore, tightening his grip on his shield and hammer as they approach the ruined structure.

Although fallen in places the walls of the western most building supported the cracked arches that held up a weathered roof with holes in it. A tessellated stone floor was visible beneath moss and dead leaves. In the centre of the northern wall was a statue of white granite that depicted a man dressed in archaic armour. The figure knelt upon one knee, his head bowed and a simple helm placed upon the ground beside it.
This message had punctuation tweaked by the GM at 08:08, Mon 30 Nov 2020.

Siward moved closer to the statue of the kneeling warrior, his eyes narrowing as he studied the details of the sculpture.

Teodore looked around from the doorway, and even up into the rafters, for anything unusual as the cleric examined the statue.

The building had seen much better days but had weathered well. Teodore looked up at the rafters, the gaps and hole allowed the daylight into the building. The stonework arches showed signs of decoration and carving but encrusted with grime or weeds it was impossible to discern any details.

Undeviating Siward approached the statue. The statue had many nicks and gouges and a patina of lichen had grown upon its surface, however it remained in a very good condition. Its good condition and Siward's faith made recognising it simple, the weathered statue was of St. Ras!

Day: 1. Time: 9:50am. Turn: 5. Weather: Clear. Vision: Daylight. Movement: 20'

With an approving smile, Barnabas vouchsafes that chancing upon this chapel to St. Ras must betoken fortune for their venture.

"Don't you think so, Siward? Even in this purported hell, St. Ras kneels, serene."

From that holy ground, Barnabas tracks towards the two ruined buildings to the south until he stands with both in his view.

"A good omen, certainly." Fiene agrees.

Whilst others explored around the canyon or spent a moment of peace in the ruined chapel Ben walked to the middle of the canyon.

From his position he can see a cave mouth set high in the northern cliff wall, a cascade of water tumbled down the rocky cliff before splashing into a pool below. The two ruins in the south looked much like the other to the north, there was tumbled down stone walls thick with growth of weeds.


This message was last edited by the GM at 12:49, Tue 01 Dec 2020.

Satisfied that the old chapel is harmless, Teodore walks out and spots the newcomer to the group. He lowers his weapon and shield and walks over to the man.

"Greetings. I'm Teodore. Don't mind the lack of pleasantries, we're too busy watching for danger. Not that we've seen any yet," he finishes with a wry grin.

Barnabas breathes in the mountain air with relish. It could be the last fresh air he breathes for some time -- if he gets to continue breathing air at all.

As if a powwow had been called, he says, "We seem to have three choices here: (1) the north tunnel; (2) the south tunnel;  or, intriguingly (3) that cave just a little ways up there to the south. Do we have the means to scale twenty or so feet to reach it?"

The priest kneels in front of the statue, his stance momentarily mimicking the depiction of his deity. He nods in response to Barnabas’ words. ”It assuredly is a good sign,” he answers quietly, ”Hope in the midst of desolation.”

Leaving the chapel, he considers the company’s options, keeping his thoughts to himself for the moment. Glancing up at the entrance to the Dave, he cannot help but feel intrigued by it, even as he questions if it could be reached safely.

Coal encounter

At the shrine Siward made his prayers to St. Ras. Despite there having been no regular venerators at the fallen shrine Siward felt some vestige of the saint's divinity remained there.

OOC Can anyone please roll 1d6 for surprise...

Day: 1. Time: 10:00am. Turn: 6. Weather: Clear. Vision: Daylight. Movement: 20'
This message was last edited by the GM at 07:28, Thu 03 Dec 2020.

Fiene watches the birds fly overhead.


10:15, Today: Fiene rolled 2 using 1d6 ((2)).

Coal Encounter

Whilst the party explored the ruins from the southeast corner a black bear emerged. The bear was large and when it shuffled into view it sniffed the air apprehensively. Sensing the intrusion in the canyon by the adventurers the black bear began to huff loudly and slap the floor with its big paws.

OOC Everyone please declare what's in your hands and if you wish to cast a spell.

As this will be considered a wilderness encounter distances will be yards... as the map is in feet you should multiply ranges and movements by three. So lots of movement will be possible even for the heavily armoured. It does however also mean the bear can move around a lot too.
This message was last edited by the GM at 19:21, Wed 09 Dec 2020.

OOC Ben holds a dagger and a lantern. He does not plan to cast a spell. Nerida has a shield and war hammer.

Ermengard, Fiene says, taking a step back.  "I believe we may have found you a bearskin cloak."

Fiene has his 10' walking staff in one hand, the other hand is empty.  His lantern (being unlit) is hanging from his belt. Also on his belt, a single dagger in a sheath.  There is also a dagger in each boot.

Teodore holds his sword and shield.

Siward has his war hammer in one hand, his shield in the other. He has no spells to cast, as yet. :)

Anfinn crouched down to a knee. Where can I hide...? The thief produced his long sword.

The wizard stays in his current group, finding safety in numbers.

"I was told you can drive away bears by banging pots and pans. But in this environment, by doing that you'd probably attract the attention of something far worse than a bear."

Some of the adventurers readied their weapons or stepped back, others remained unmoving, huddled in small groups they whispered warnings or encouragement to each other. What was the black bear going to do?

OOC Can one person roll for Initiative. The bear rolled a 6. If you tie we will reroll otherwise the bear will go first.

13:51, Today: Fiene rolled 3 using 1d6.  Initiative.

The stand off continued for a few moments with the large black bear huffing and stamping it's paws. With no overtly aggressive actions from the party the bear gave a final huff then began to walk westward along the bottom of the canyon wall.

Ermangard shook her head at Fiene "no don't say that. That's Coal" she was clearly upset by his offer of a bearskin cloak "veterans say it's a sign of good fortune to sight him, many leave offering for him at his cave" she pointed to the south cave.

OOC We'll continue with combat rounds, so everyone post movement next.
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:22, Fri 04 Dec 2020.

Teodore will stay put, weapon in hand, ready to move to the aid of his new comrades if the bear should change its mind.

"I would spare a ration or two, if you think it would help." he says, watching the bear curiously.

"Maybe, you know, when Coal's busy about other business," warns Barnabas. "Wouldn't want him to confuse one offering of food for another."

Then, through a mesmerizing series of non-verbal gestures, incorporating his eye brows, fingers, and, improbably, his elbows, he produces a communication that can only be understood as "It has been decided by fate; the northern passage beckons." And with that his feet start to shuffle noiselessly in that direction.

Siward offered Fiene one of his rations from his pack, should he elect to leave an offering for the imposing creature. That done, he moves in the direction of the northern passageway, trusting that St. Ras is guiding his and his companions’ steps.

Urkov moves away with Vitchna keeping himself between the bear and his old friend.

OOC I see Vitchna as a valuable asset allowing us to carry much more. I will protect her.

Anfinn looked on awaiting for a strong fighter to take on the bear head on. His sword sheathed. Anfinn grasped one of his daggers and anticipated a chance to stab the fury beast in the back if need be. Otherwise the slight thin man will stay out of its way.

Everyone was careful not to upset Coal, the bear having demonstrated the canyon as part of its territory and turned its back on them as it climbed up to the cave mouth in the south wall and entered the cave.

On the other side of the canyon Ben and Siward headed to the man made entrance on the canyon floor. The doorway was open to the outside with dirt and debris blown in and around the entrance. The interior was darkness.

Protectively Urkov led Vitchna further away from the bear whilst Teodore stood defiantly with sword drawn to protect the party.

Teodore looks at the others and jerks his head slightly toward the northern entrance, heading in that direction, continuing to keep his sword and shield ready.

"I'll have to find you another cloak, Ermengard."  Fiene says, lifting his staff, and turning towards the northern entrance.  "Come along."

Anfinn flung his hair back and stood. The thief made his way to safety confident the ear had left them alone.

Adventurers began to gather around the northern entrance. The adventurers saw through the entrance way a dark room. Dirt and debris had been blown in by the wind. Deeper inside a mildewed door could be seen in the north wall.

Northern chamber
This message was last edited by the GM at 19:06, Wed 09 Dec 2020.

As of yet Stonehell had not revealed any of its mysteries to Barnabas -- if this was even the entrance to it. To remedy this, Barnabas asks, in hushed tones, whether the "door expert" would venture forth and ply his trade.

Fiene relights his lantern, directing the light towards the northern passages.

With the room lit, Teodore steps forward into the center of the room, watching both the revealed passages for trouble and covering the others as they enter the room.

Recklessly or bravely the fighter Teodore entered into the unknown chamber. Loyally the old man Hopkins followed with his back bent. Hopkins kept to the edge of the chamber and looked suspiciously at the detritus. The chamber was dirty and unkempt, dirt and leaves had gathered in the corners. The door Teodore found himself next to was mildewed and he could smell rot.

Passageways led both east and west out of the chamber but the light from Fiene's lantern could not penetrate far from his position in the doorway.

Northern chamber

OOC

Day: 1. Time: 10:10am. Turn: 7. Weather: Clear. Vision: Daylight. Movement: 20'
This message was last edited by the GM at 19:22, Thu 10 Dec 2020.

Fiene moves deeper into the room. Is shining his lantern to expose the darkness. "Fortune favors the bold." he says to those behind.
This message was last edited by the player at 15:41, Thu 10 Dec 2020.

The lantern light filled the chamber, which showed it to be in a poor state of disrepair. The smell of rot was apparent to any that entered. To the west along a short corridor the northern wall of a smaller chamber could be seen. To east the corridor turned northward into darkness.



OOC I've added more characters to the map, but if you want to stay away from the chamber or explore elsewhere let me know.

"You know, Teodore," Barnabas produces, while fidgeting at the entrance, "why don't you just open the door -- so long as you don't think the floor will give way or the ceiling will collapse when you do?"

"I'd rather follow a hallway where I can see what's coming," the fighter replies. "Any preference?"

Anfinn scratched his whiskers and said, "so do we go in? Maybe I can find some gold or trinkets...."

"I think," Ben replies neutrally, "that those 'gold and trinkets' will be more likely to be found in the rooms -- not in the hallways."

He does not add that he doesn't like to leave any door unopened; that's just a personal thing for him.

”Perhaps we should take a glimpse inside that chamber before pressing onward,” Siward suggested, his nose wrinkling slightly at the lingering scent of decay.

Fiene approaches door in question, trying to tell if is has been opened recently.  The rot coming from it seemed to suggest it was not much of a barrier to someone or something determined.  Still, he checked the handle to see if it turns.

When Fiene does that, Teodore relents. "I will open the door if you think it the better option."

The door was four foot wide and eight foot tall, made of rotting wood and rusty iron bands. The wood was swollen and damp to touch when Fiene approached. He took the handle and twisted, the water logged wood was stubborn but a little effort made the handle move.

The thief walked in to the room and looked at the three men inside. "Well you all are bigger and stronger than me, but if we are need of someone to check locks or for traps. Please step aside and let me do what it is I was born for... outside of my looks."

"All yours." The fighter waves Anfinn toward the door with a small smile.

With more and more people fussing with or about the door, Barnabas (mentally) increases the odds of it being opened from three in ten to four.

Anfinn approached the door. The stonework around the door was rough faced limestone blocks, the flagstone and ceiling were limestone slabs. There were cracks and crevices in the stonework. The door was four foot wide and eight foot tall and built from thick timbers with iron bands. The door was damp to touch and smelt of mildew.

OOC Describe what Anfinn is doing and I'll provide more information. If you choose to use a Thief skill let me know and I will roll.

For everyone else if Anfinn chooses to use a Thief skill it will take a Turn, so your character will have a Turn to explore also. You can make use of this by describing what you are doing or by also taking a Turn to doing something similar i.e. Check for secret door.

Fiene steps aside and lets Anfinn have the door.  He watches for a few moments, then starts to get bored. He swings his light away, then snaps it back to the door so the man can do whatever it is he is doing.

Anfinn strolled up to the door. Placed his ear to the door and began to hum. As he deftly began to move his hands about the door. The thief turned his head and winked.

OOC: Anfinn will use the skill remove/find traps

While a few of the others busy themselves with the door, Barnabas moves inside the tunnel and shines his lantern down the western-branching corridor.

Teodore will stand guard over Anfinn as he investigates the door.

The door felt damp and slimy. The smell of mildew was strong as Anfinn laid his ear on the door. Anfinn's fingers felt no sign of any traps and his heard nothing to indicate it was anything but an old and very damp door.

Adventurous Ben walked along the corridor to the west. When he reached the doorway he found a plain room bathed in a red glow. The red glow came from a fire beetle, a two and half foot long beetle with glowing red glands. The fire beetle was devouring a mountain kid goat.



OOC

Day: 1. Time: 10:30am. Turn: 9. Weather: Clear. Vision: Daylight. Movement: 20'

Lantern oil used Ben and Fiene: 3 Turns
This message was last edited by the GM at 10:49, Wed 16 Dec 2020.

Having made his discovery, Ben, his pulse more than slightly elevated, tiptoes back to Teodore and the others. Speaking in his hushed tones, as if the scavenger could understand his speech, he says, "I think we can get the jump on that beetle."

By "we," it's obvious that he means anybody in armor and with a weapon longer than his.

Anfinn brushed his hair and smiled, "Well well, one of you big brawny gents want to take care of the beasty? A shrimp like myself would just get in the way."

Fiene follows into the western room, his curiosity getting the better of him.  "What manner of creature is it?"

Teodore looks around for a moment, already knowing that he was the only, "big brawny gent," here. He sighed and looked at the armored girls.

"Ladies? Shall we see what we can do? If it's okay with your patrons, that is." He does not presume to command them, for he is not paying them. "Hopkins, remain here. I'll go see that someone doesn't get hurt."

Teodore moves around the corner just far enough to see this beetle Ben mentioned. He also checks the walls and ceiling for beetles there - especially if there's a corner that might hide a beetle from view.

Siward blinked at the insect, aware that he had never actually seen one that large before. Steeling himself, he tightened his grip on his hammer and fell in behind Teodore, mindful that his prowess on the field fell far short of the warrior's. Even so, he knew St. Ras would provide him with the courage that he required.

Once in the doorway Teodore spotted the giant beetle easily. There were three glands on the beetle which glowed brightly enough to illuminate the small chamber in a red glow without the use of Ben's or Fiene's lantern. Theodore carefully checked the wall and ceiling, both were bare.

Whilst no one had entered the chamber the beetle continued to feast on the kid goat.

"You may back him up." Fiene tells Ermangard.  "Unless this is also a good omen."

"Nay I've never heard of a lucky fire beetle. I've heard that their glands can be harvested" Ermangard replied to Fiene before she took her place beside Teodore to view the giant creature.

The apprentice wizard looks on with interest. "Yes, fascinating creatures. Quite useful in environments such as these!"

Barnabas smiles encouragingly at Nerida, "Go on, now; show'em what you can do," slipping further and further away from the fire beetle with each word.

Teodore whispered to the others watching the beetle, "On three then, yes? All at once. Watch for the mandibles."

Disturbed by the approach of Teodore and Ermangard the giant fire beetle left off from its feeding to rear up aggressively. The giant beetle's mandibles snapping dangerously.

OOC We'll be moving into combat rounds shortly. Can everyone please declare what's in your hands and if you wish to cast a spell. If you do not wish to get involved please declare what you are doing too.

The chamber has space for 3 characters to attack with melee weapons and 3 to attack with range weapons or spells.
This message was last edited by the GM at 15:04, Fri 18 Dec 2020.

"What better time than now?" asks Teodore rhetorically. He readies his shield and moves to skewer the beetle with his sword.

Attack the fire beetle (melee). Sword and shield in hand.

Ben: Ranged attack with dagger
Nerida: Melee attack (shield and war hammer)
This message was last edited by the player at 15:41, Fri 18 Dec 2020.

Fiene hold his lantern aloft, and his walking pole in the other hand.  He gives Ermangard the room to use her spear.

The beetle agitated by the invasion of its meal time turned to the adventurers ready for battle.

OOC It looks like we have a room full, someone roll for Initiative.

Led by Teodore the adventurers rushed in on the Firebeetle which due to its partially digested meal of goat was slow to respond.



OOC We have completed declaration and initiative. I've guessed movement based on posted intentions. We now have missile attacks from Ben, then melee attacks from Teodore, Ermangard and Nerida.

Ben and Teodore can both make their attacks. I have rolled on behalf of Ermangard and Nerida, both missed.

Teodore opts for a straight thrust instead of a slash that might skate off the beetle's shell. Unfortunately, his point is still turned aside. "Blast!"


14:44, Today: Teodore rolled 8 using 1d8+1.  Sword damage? Nope.

14:43, Today: Teodore rolled 11 using 1d20+1.  Attack fire beetle.

Please disregard the extra roll - I tried to go from Canyon Thread to Dice Roller and hit Back, generating an extra to-hit roll. Oops.

The hastily thrown dagger can find no purchase within the exoskeleton of the canyon scavenger.

17:35, Today: Ben rolled 9,2 using d20,d4.  ranged dagger.

After an initial flurry of attacks the firebeetle struck at Ermangard but wildly missed the warrior woman.

OOC Characters must now declare actions for casting spells, retreating and if you're switching what's in your hands.

Ben: Ranged attack with second dagger
Nerida: Melee attack (shield and war hammer)

OOC: No change.

Fiene continues holding the light for those with weapons.

OOC Roll for Initiative. If you beat a 3 make your rolls for attacks. Order is Movement/Missile/Magic/Melee.

07:13, Today: Fiene rolled 2 using 1d3 ((2))

09:32, Today: Ben rolled 1 using 1d6.  init with d6.

In reply to Fiene (msg # 113):

Do the combatants need torchlight when the fire beetles are already lit themselves?

The scrawny thief stood towards the back and peeked inside the door. "I got FAITH in you guys.. but hope there aren't more of em." Especially since backed in a corner there is no way I can attack it from behind.

OOC: readies dagger. 01:14, Today: Anfinn Moarsson rolled 2 using 1d6 ((2)).
This message was last edited by the player at 07:15, Tue 22 Dec 2020.

The glands of the firebeetle shed light around the chamber enough that that the lantern light offered by Fiene was not needed. Cornered the firebeetle snapped its pincers at Nerida but the attack missed the juvenile woman-at-arms.

OOC Post your actions. The order of actions is Movement/Missile/Magic/Melee.

After the beetle's pincers snapped shut just short of his fledgling woman-at-arms, Barnabas nearly panicked. What if it didn't miss next time?

He rushes his next throw and the dagger clatters off the tunnel wall. It falls to the ground below, illuminated by the phosphorescent glow of the beetle and the steady beams of lantern light.

10:28, Today: Ben rolled 6,3 using d20,d4.  2nd Dagger Toss. Are we all rolling d10s?

Teodore stabs again at the beetle, thinking that at least his thrust was more true this time, if a bit weak.


10:58, Today: Teodore rolled 2 using 1d8+1.  sword damage.

10:58, Today: Teodore rolled 15 using 1d20+1.  Sword attack.

The firebeetle continued to defend itself lashing out at the adventurers. Its pincers snapped menacingly however dangerous it was the fighter Teodore stabbed past the pincers and into the hard carapace of the beetle. The creature's blood stained Teodore blade but cornered it fought on.

OOC Declare actions for casting spells, retreating and if you're switching what's in your hands.

No change.

OOC: Same here.

Anfinn will backpedal to the door and slide against the wall. The thief won't move until either they kill it or he can stab the monster in the back with his dagger.

Siward will press forward alongside Teodore, striking at the insect with his hammer, as soon as he perceives an opening.

OOC Roll for Initiative! You have a 1 to beat.
If you win Initiative which you likely will roll your attacks and post your actions. Siward will replace Nerida in the fighting positions, so attacks roll will be needed from Teodore and Siward, also Ben still has one more dagger so I expect he will attack too.

Ben hastily retrieves the third of his three daggers and tosses it at the beetle with as much futility as the previous two.

09:32, Today: Ben rolled 11,1 using d20,d4.  dagger (3).
09:31, Today: Ben rolled 5 using 1d6.  init.

If he can get a decent shot, Valerian will hurl a dagger as well.

09:51, Today: Valerian rolled 4,8,3 using d6,d20-1,d4 ((4,9,3)).

Teodore bangs his sword off the beetle's carapace with terrible form, and feels the shock halfway up his arm.

09:00, Today: Teodore rolled 5 using 1d20+1.  sword attack.

Finding all of the strength he could muster, Siward swung a heavy blow at the huge insect.

11:01, Today: Siward rolled 14 using 1d20.  Attack - War Hammer.

Not sure if that’s a hit. If so...

11:03, Today: Siward rolled 5 using 1d6.  Damage.

The beetle stubbornly fought on, its hard shell imperviously to the many thrown daggers and the sword of Teodore. The nervous and somewhat skittish Nerida backed off to allow Siward to come forward. The cleric of St. Ras gave the beetle a whack but his warhammer was deflected by the beetle's hardened carapace.

It seemed like the battle might become long and protracted but then Ermangard raised her spear and drove it downward into the creature's thorax. The beetle squirmed and thrashed as Ermangard held it down and screamed a guttural warcry of triumph as it died. The creature's glowing glands continued to glow and fill the chamber with reddish light.

OOC The creature is defeated.

Day: 1. Time: 10:50am. Turn: 11. Weather: Clear. Vision: Daylight. Movement: 20'

Lantern oil used Ben and Fiene: 5 Turns
This message was last edited by the GM at 18:49, Wed 23 Dec 2020.

"Aaah alast... ooh. As you can see I am but skin and bone. Hail to you mighty warriors!"

Anfinn scratched his head for a moment as he searched around with his eyes. Might be some gold or trinkets left y a fallen adventurer? The thief began to walk where the light was lit staying away from any shadows just in case.

The creature defeated Anfinn dared to join in the exploration of the small chamber. He found nought but the half devoured kid goat and the speared firebeetle. Three glowing nodules, two above the eyes and one on the abdomen continued to cast a light in a ten foot radius.

With the lanterns in the western chamber the entrance chamber was left in darkness. Alone except for his mule Urkov peered around the dark chamber. On the western wall the dwarf spotted writing, writing that had appeared only when the chamber was in darkness. The writing was visible by the faint heat it produced.

The dwarf read the following scrawled message:

R. -
As agreed, the jewels await you two levels down in the chamber past the acolytes' cells. How you deal with the wasps is your own concern!
                                                                                                        - M.

"Well, now, how about that?" Barnabas addresses Nerida, as if she, and not Ermangard, had avenged the kid.

He keeps grinning, "All of us have curried favor with the god or gods of goats on this day."

He makes a mental note to not partake of curried goat stew at the next opportunity.

In theory, he knows that the organs, glands, and various other innards and outards could be harvested from certain beasts. It is not something he has ever done in the field, so to speak. Field-training, it would have to be. He gathers his three daggers, chooses the sharpest of three, and then sets to work removing the beetle's ruby-colored nodules.

It was a grisly task and one that took a few minutes of hacking and chopping. When Ben had completed the butchering of the firebeetle he plenty of blood on his hands however besides him he had laid out the three glands. All three continued to glow and bathe the room in a faint reddish glow.

Once the group is ready, Teodore will open the door to the north.

"How long to you think they will keep glowing?" Fiene asks curiously. "Fireflies eventually go dark."


He lines up with his lantern and pole as Teodore starts the move to the north.

Butchery complete, Barnabas secrets the three nodules in one of his pouches designed to store exotica. No leakage.

Shrugging at Fienne, he follows the others to the front door as it were.

~~~

VALUABLES
Platinum Pieces (PP): 0
Gold Pieces     (GP): 87
Electrum Pieces (EP): 0
Silver Pieces   (SP): 4
Copper Pieces   (CP): 0
Fire Beetle Nodules (FBN): 3
This message was last edited by the player at 00:45, Sun 27 Dec 2020.

The glowing glands were harvested. When they were packed away the illumination they offered was sealed away, the party relying upon the lanterns of Ben and Fiene.

Teodore returned to the door in the first chamber and tried to open it.

OOC Teodore make an Open Doors check, roll 1d6.

Day: 1. Time: 11:00am. Turn: 12. Weather: Clear. Vision: Daylight. Movement: 20'

Lantern oil used Ben and Fiene: 6 Turns

Anfinn watched the pocket with a grin. The face will head to the back.

21:42, Today: Teodore rolled 5 using 1d6.  Open Doors roll.

The door was rotten and damp. It did not want to open and was stubborn with its refusal as Teodore pushed unsuccessful at it. The door did not open.

None were there to spot Beryl cross the Four Tower Bridge, though he dropped his silver in anyway, being a good lad, if somewhat scrawny.

He stopped at the Moorland Magpie as well, though he didn't hesitate long, as he was far short of what it would take in coin to spend the night indoors. It would probably be another hungry night as well, though sleeping under the stars was never an issue, praise Auril, (barring rain of course, which he would endure but never learn to love).

Tipping back his hat, he utilized his fine orphanage schooling to figure out the notice, and was directed after the others.

Soon he came upon the canyon and it's strange environs. Poking about, he sought out the adventurers he had been told had come this way, hoping it were no rude prank, though he had to admit he did tend to fall for such silliness with sad regularity...

"Callooh Callay? Be there anybody out there?" he cried out, his voice echoing thru the canyon.

"In here," Barnabas calls out in reply.

After Teodore fails to come to an understanding with the door, he turns to Nerida, "Go ahead. Give it a tug or push. Both."

Should she struggle as well, Barnabas will deploy his powers of persuasion next.

Urged forward Nerida attempted to open the door. The young girl was nervous and with shaky hand she pushed and pulled at the stuck door but it failed to open.

"Most obstreperous," Barnabas mutters after failing to budge the door. He shrugs and checks out the passage to the east.

The door blocked their path, impatiently Barnabas explored the other passageway. Around the corner Ben found another small chamber. The chamber was littered with the discarded leftovers from a camp, these included an old campfire and a broken bottle.


This message was last edited by the GM at 15:49, Mon 28 Dec 2020.

Hearing a mysterious voice from on high, Beryl ponders if the source be mortal or more than, then decides to follow it either way. Trudging up the path to the cave mouth, he pauses two, no three times to catch his breath before reaching the others.

"Hail, fellow travelers, Acolyte Plotz here, though you may call me Beryl. I worship Auril, goddess of the sky, and would hope to being aid and succor to your efforts here. I would warn you though, a young woman in the town told me of a cult of lizard worshipers who dwell within. We should be most cautious."

Connor kept his distance as he followed the group through the canyon.  He was just a farmhand two weeks ago and circumstances forced him into this risky endeavor.  Earn the gold to save the farm, but this adventuring career field was a dangerous one and Connor knew he wasn't qualified.  His best bet would be to find a group and stick with them for as long as he could.

He finally reached a point that the young fighter could see the trail end of the group at the mouth of a cave, so he jogged to catch up and join them.  As he approached the group sweat beads flowing down his temples "Greetings all, my name is Connor, if you would accept me to your group I pledge my bow to you in service."

Anfinn rubbed his chin thoughtfully. He reached in his bag of tricks and plied his trade.

"Let me see if I can open the door.."

ooc: Unlock door skill

Whilst Beryl and Connor made their acquaintance in the canyon Anfinn took another look at the door. He tinkered with lock but to no avail it was rusted and broken. Anfinn then gave the door a hefty push for it to swing inwards. The room beyond the door was ten feet by ten feet. A heavy scent of rot and mildew escaped the open door and filled the cave. Inside the room was rotten crates, barrels, cloth, leather and a slimy floor.

"Ewww...." Beryl sniffed unhappily at the scent. Not the worst he had ever encountered but still well in to the nasty zone.

His stomach, however, growled. It seemed enough like food to that portion of his body to make comment. One he quickly (and firmly) said no to.

Just about the last thing he needed today was the drizzling shytes.

In reply to Beryl Plotz (msg # 153):

The apprentice turns to the newcomer.

"Ah. A cleric. We can always use another healer and warder of undead! I'm Valerian, the Prestidigitator. As if anyone keeps track of ceremonial titles anymore. Thank you for warning us about the lizard-cult."

OOC Map with small rotten chamber revealed.

Still morning and Barnabas found himself contemplating three mysteries:

(1) -- How long ago had this camp been used? He scans the detritus for any clues.

And, after having done so and wended his way through the throng to look at the water-logged storeroom, he wonders (2) how did this closed chamber become flooded? Did the water flow in or out? Does the warp of the door provide any clues?

And, finally, (3) how many more people were going to show up this morning? It's not like any of them was about to pay Nerida's well-earned wage.

"Lizardmen, you say," Barnabas muses--as had just been reported by one Mr. Plotz.

"It could be they know these chambers better than we and have their own secret ways in and out of them."

Fiene spends a few minutes while everyone is otherwise occupied to inspect the western room.  It seemed unlikely this was the extent of the cave.  Trusting Ermangard to watch over him, he shines his lantern on the walls, looking for a crack or some discoloration in the stone that might indicate there is another portal here.  The floor as well, might have scratches or something leading elsewhere.

Examination of the old camp gave few clues to Ben, apart from the fact that it was old. There were no signs that it had been recently used. The remains of the campfire were cold and the litter was scattered around with no signs of use.

In the other chamber Fiene examined the walls but found nothing to indicate another door.

From the doorway of the storeroom everything within looked spoilt, it was unclear what the source of water was.

OOC Day: 1. Time: 11:20am. Turn: 14. Weather: Clear. Vision: Daylight. Movement: 20'

Lantern oil used Ben and Fiene: 8 Turns

Beryl pokes at the rotted and soggy detritus on the floor with the top of his staff. While he suspects the odds are thin, he hopes to maybe find something still edible. That said, he does so at the extreme distance his staff allows, careful of what might pop out of the mass and mess.

Conner wasn't exactly certain what he was supposed to do, he was more confident dealing with plowing a field or milking a cow.  Now, he had to put that behind him and act like an adventurer might be expected to do.

He begins slowly feeling the walls for any abnormal creases or see a crack in the wall that may indicate a second entrance.

The rotten wood and other slimy material slid around at a poke from Beryl's staff. Each poke elicited further fetid smells but revealed nothing that had survived the rot and mildew.

The farmer Connor entered the cave and found it rather full of people and an obstinate mule.

OOC Any particular wall that Connor is checking?

With a disappointed sigh, the holy hobo gives up on poking at the goop. Glancing about, he makes a suggestion.

"Seems to me that if there is a way thru, the water might flow under the false wall, or hidden door."

He looks to the cracks in the ground where water might have puddled, even going so far as to push water about with the end of his staff.

Diligently Connor began to examine the walls closely. He took his time, slowly exploring the stonework. The four chambers were small but alone it would take him three hours to complete his search, for now he had company and their lantern light.

At the door of the store room Beryl poked and prodded at the water. Where the water puddled it was viscous and slimy.

Working his way clockwise around the storeroom, Beryl will continue to look for a place where the water might give a clue.

Enough prodding and poking revealed the cause of the rotten condition of the small chamber. Considering the unpleasant smell the cause was just as unpleasant.

As Beryl poked a mildewed and wet rag something began to crawl up his staff. The very wetness he was examining had begun to creep up his staff toward him, a viscous green slime.

OOC Roll a d6 you're surprised on a 1 or 2, otherwise it's time for people to declare intention to move or cast and what's in their hands.

"Well crap," the poor padre exclaimed, calling out to the others. "This doesn't look good."

He throws the staff down, and backs well away.


03:44, Today: Beryl Plotz rolled 3 using 1d6.  surprise.

OOC Good for Beryl no surprise but he's not out of harms way yet. Dropping the staff and backing away will be based on Initiative. To build up the tension I'll need everyone's declaration before we roll.
This message was last edited by the GM at 22:14, Wed 30 Dec 2020.

Barnabas has been thinking about vacating this area and trying the entrance on the south wall of the canyon, east of the bear cave, so he and Nerida would be moving in that direction.

Anfinn eyes on the door and retreat. Glanced about at the sign of a commotion.

Conner being alerted to the distraction slides his shield from around his shoulder. Holding onto the shield with both hands, he slams the shield into the slime. Following the strike, he inspects the shield and the slime for any damage.

Valerian watches the ooze eat its way up his companion's staff, and backs away in disgust.

"OH! How terrible! Is this something we can burn out of existence?"

The room became a lot darker and emptier as people nervously evacuated the cave at sight of the green slime. All were fearful, either bravely or dumbly Connor covered their retreat slamming his shield down on the slime.

When Connor pulled the shield back up, he felt resistance as the slime attached itself and began to erode and eat the metal. The discarded staff on the floor was equally starting to be consumed by the green slime.

OOC I'll wait on others before posting the slimes action.

Barnabas and Nerida skedaddle back to the canyon.

Siward begins a slow, but steady, retreat, watchful for any member of the company that might require aid in avoiding the slime.

Rushing for daylight! Eeek...

In the west chamber Fiene searched the walls and floors to no avail. Ermangard who was always open with emotions watched over him full of pride and satisfaction from her victory over the firebeetle.

At the discovery of the green slime the occupants of the middle chamber into the canyon. Scattered the adventurers left the farmer Connor to hold the line. Everyone, even the slowest were able to escape the cave.

Connor's shield was covered in the green slime, which oozed around the shield to cover it and began to crawl up Connor's arm. The slime where it touched Connor bit into his flesh and began to devour it.

OOC The green slime has attached itself to Connor. No damage. We will now be declaring for a new round. So declaration should include, spells, movement and what's in your hands. Any dice rolls such as Initiative, attacks etc come after everyone has declared.

Beryl moves carefully down in to the valley, away from the cave. Once clear, he will catch his breath, then begin to look for another stick to replace his staff.

There was a small copse of tree to the east of the cave entrance. Among the trees Beryl will be able after a few minutes of searching to find a stick suitable for prodding, poking and leaning on, but not sturdy enough for fighting.

Beryl considers returning to town and giving over the life of adventuring for that of an itinerant beggar.

A grimness heretofore never seen on Barnabas's face overtakes it. He sets down his lantern, retrieves a flask of oil from his pack, and prepares to douse the slime and its host.

He calls out to Fienne, "With me!"
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 15:16, Fri 01 Jan 2021.

Conner yells "Wait!!! Everyone pull out and we'll do this outside rather than an enclosed area like this." Conner tries to herd the others out of the entrance as he moves outside without touching the rest of the group.

"What?" Fiene mumbles, getting his concentration broken by someone calling out.  "What? Me?" he asks as he comes out into the corridor and sees all the commotion and everyone scrambling.  "What do you need?" He asks.

The green slime continued to eat Connor's shield and Connor's arm, spreading further up his arm toward his chest.

Connor emerged into the daylight of the canyon. Waiting in the canyon Ben prepared a flask of oil.

OOC Slime has been contact with Connor for 2 rounds.

Beryl continues to look for a better staff.

OOC Roll for Initiative. Green Slime rolled a 6, so reroll for a tie if you manage to roll a 6.

03:27, Today: Beryl Plotz rolled 3 using 1d6.  Initiative.

The green slime engulfed Connor's shield and inched it's way up his arm and toward his chest.

OOC Your actions for round 2.

Beryl continues to hunt for a stick that would make a decent staff.

Ben will douse Connor (and the slime) in oil.

Fiene follows outside, opening the shutter to his lantern to access the flame to ignite Ben's oil.

Gathered in the canyon Ben went to Connor and doused him and the slime in oil. Fiene joined the pair and opened his lantern.

OOC That will end round 2. Declarations for round 3. I have Connor, Ben and Fiene now next to the green slime.

Nearly tripping over his own feet, Barnabas backs away from the slime and its host. He looks at Connor, he looks at Fienne, then he looks back at Connor.

"Tell him when. Before, during, or after."

Valerian checks his canteen...water.

"Get your wineskins out! Alcohol will kill the slime if it gets on you!"

At least he learned something useful as an apprentice.

OCC: Is Anfinn far enough away to stay safe?

OOC
In reply to Anfinn Moarsson (msg # 194):

Yes, the only characters close to the green slime at present are Connor, Ben and Fiene. I'll wait for Fiene to declare then we'll roll for Initiative.

Fiene sticks the hem of his robe into the flame, and draws some flame out.  Not quite mentally ready to light a man on fire, he holds it out for Connor to move his arm towards the fire.

Gradually being consumed by green slime Connor was then dowsed in oil. Ben then prepared to make a run for it whilst Fiene was about to set alight to himself.

OOC Roll for Initiative. The slime rolled a 3. If you roll higher Ben will get to run away and Fiene will set his robe on fire before the slime gets to act. Connor will need to post his action.

05:53, Today: Beryl Plotz rolled 4 using 1d6.  Initiative.

As he has no value except in his ability to hit things with a stick, Beryl will continue to seek a better one. Failing that, he will have to head back to town.

Quicker than the green slime Ben away. Fiene stood with flaming robes to await Connor to ignite himself.

Amongst the nearby trees Beryl could not amongst the deadfall find a stick strong enough to be used in combat.

OOC We shall await Connor's post.

Having no wine that he could offer toward the effort to free Conno from the slime, Siward remained a few paces back, whispering a quiet prayer to St. Ras.

Whether it was Connor reaching for help in his dying throes, Fiene's flapping robe aflame or some chance stray ember caught on the breeze but the oil dowsed Connor suddenly burst into flame. The oil did not burn fast but slowly, roasting alive both friend and enemy. Man and slime burnt as black oily smoke rose into the sky. The fire burnt for many minutes after both victims had perished. What was left was blackened and crisp.

OOC Day: 1. Time: 11:40am. Turn: 16. Weather: Clear. Vision: Daylight. Movement: 20'

Lantern oil used Ben and Fiene: 10 Turns

"Welcome to Stonehell," Barnabas intones needlessly, before lapsing into a fit of coughing after inhaling a lungful of noxious smoke. He then staggers across the canyon, from north to south, to try the second of the two manmade tunnel entrances. At least one person, he wagers, will follow for she has been paid well for her attendance.

OOC Did dousing Connor consume the entirety of an oil flask?

Across the other side of the Ben explored the other doorway. Ben walked passed the empty tree trunk where they had spotted the rabbit but nothing untoward occurred. Nearby to the west lay another ruined building, consisting of the remains of walls covered in thick growth of weeds.

The south doorway in the canyon when reached was bare stone walls, dirt and leaves were scattered about the floor. The air felt colder here and Ben felt a vague sense of unease.

OOC Yes the burning will have consumed the flask of oil.

The normally well-composed Prestidigitator took a deep breath and shut his eyes. He'd just seen a man consumed by green slime and burn to death at the same time. He ran through a series of complex formulae in his mind in an attempt to distract from the memories of the screams and the stench.

Fiene was unsure what was expected at the moment.  "I suppose someone should say a prayer."  He says, looking to see if the man's supplies survived.

"Hold up there a moment Ben."  Fiene calls after the man. "I'll be right along."  He made his way to join up on the south side.

A search of the burnt and partially devoured corpse of Connor revealed many items either burnt, warped, scarred or tattered. Amongst the detritus had survived a small pile of twenty gold coins.

At the cave on the south side of the canyon Fiene felt that the air was colder and had a vague sense of unease.

What the hell is going in there...?

Anfinn slowly walks towards the smell. But will stop short once he sees any of the group.

Beryl continues to look for a decent stick, as he has no other use to the party. If he fails to find one soon, he will head back to town.

Following his nose Anfinn saw the burnt corpse of Connor. Elsewhere he saw Beryl scratching about in a small copse of trees to the west. To his south the conjurors Barnabus and Fiene were peering into another cave.

Without out much fanfare, Fiene adds dead man's coin into a small sack.  If nothing else, it could buy a few rounds if the rest of them manage to make it back.

Staring into the darkness, "Not much sense in standing outside staring at it." He says, ushering Ermangard to come along he shines his lantern to light his steps before him.

With a shrug, Berly heads back in to the cave. "Let me know if anyone sees anything that much work as a club or staff, Did we get all of the green stuff?"

->Examine vague sense of unease.
You can't find a "vague sense of unease".

->Enter entrance.
You can't enter an "entrance".

>South
You enter the entrance.

Boldly Fiene and Ben entered the second cave. The chamber was of bare stone walls. The air was chill, dirt and dead leaves are scattered around the stone flagstones. Other rooms to the east and west can be seen but they seem very dark in shadows and their contents can not be seen from where the two adventurers stand, although to the west the shadows to do appear to contain spots of a blue-black glow.

Valerian turns to the newcomer.

"Our first encounter with green slime. We just lost a companion, sadly."

He gives a deep sigh.

"As much as I hate to say it, we need to research how to better prepare for this sort of encounter in the future."

Drawn by glowing blue-black spots, Barnabas ventures to the west and holds his lantern aloft to illuminate the way. At a minimum, one follows him, the amply compensated youngish woman-at-arms, Nerida.

The room remained in shadow even as Ben took his lantern closer. Within the shadows Ben counted twelve dim glowing blue lights. Nerida followed but she clearly felt the same unease that Fiene and Ben had felt as she was skittish as she followed. When Ben reached the door of the west room he saw that it was twenty foot by thirty foot. Hidden within in the shadows were six skeletons, their blue-black eyes sockets glowed eeriely as they moved to attack.

OOC I'm happy to decide that neither side would be surprised. So I need characters to declare spells, retreats and what's in their hands.

Day: 1. Time: 12:00pm. Turn: 18. Weather: Clear. Vision: Daylight. Movement: 20'

Lantern oil used Ben and Fiene: 12 Turns

OOC Rough sketch of map

18:09, Today: Ben rolled 3 using 1d6.  init.

Ben: Retreat Hand 1: lantern Hand 2: empty
Nerida: Attack Hand 1: war hammer Hand 2: shield

Beryl still wishes someone would have answered his question about the nasty green stuff, but current circumstances seem to take precedence.

If he sees the skeletons, he will attempt to turn them.

Holding aloft the holy symbol of Auril, goddess of the heavens and sky, his quavering voice calls out, "begone, foul abominations, in the name of Auril your presence is an offense to all that is good and holy!"

17:47, Today: Beryl Plotz rolled 11 using 2d6.  turn undead using the right dice.

17:50, Today: Beryl Plotz rolled 6 using 2d6.  how many HD turned.

Fiene makes a retreat.  "There are bones walking!" he calls, his voice slightly panicked.


ooc:  Lantern and 10' pole

The eerie skeletons stepped forward as Ben fled, calling for Nerida to strike them down. The young girl held her warhammer at the ready. The sight of Ben fleeing the caves and with Fiene close on his heels calling a warning to the others Beryl was warned of their presence and summoned the divine power of Auril, the powers of the heavens froze the skeletons in their tracks. The six abominations faltered in their stride and creakingly they back away against the far wall of the small chamber and remained there.

OOC Combat is over!

Day: 1. Time: 12:00pm. Turn: 18. Weather: Clear. Vision: Daylight. Movement: 20'

Lantern oil used Ben and Fiene: 12 Turns

Quite stunned that his efforts had worked, Beryl stands, mouth agape, for a few seconds.

"I have no clue how long this will last," he admits to the party. "Perhaps we should...? I don't know actually."

He looks to the others for advice.

"I fear that after a short period of time, they will again be able to attack us. I would suggest that a few of the more militant among us focus on one of them at a time. Once attacked, they will defend themselves, but not each other, so if you attack just one, the others should stand by unresisting. We should be able to deal with the lot of them that way."

He holds his empty hands out to the others.

"I no longer have a weapon, so it will be up to someone else to do the dirty here."

"Well done, Beryl.  You must have your god's favor."  Fiene congratulates as he watches the skeletons retreat.   "Does anyone have an axe or saw?"  He asks.  "We could cut a section from my pole, and make you a club.  Its not much, but better than throwing rocks."

Shaken, Ben mumbles to himself, "Hell. This must be hell, the entrance to it. A sextet of skeletons to stand sentinel at the gate."

Hastily, he confers with the others. As the cleric of Auril had said, they could destroy them one by one. Why the mindless undead, robbed of their one purpose--to hate and destroy the living--would resist, he does not know.

The skeletons held back by the power of Auril their destruction with some careful planning was ensured. Peculiarly however even with lanterns in the chamber the shadows remained, and in darkness the skeletons were destroyed.

The animated undead reduced to piles of old bones the shadowy chamber had bare stone walls and floor.

OOC

Day: 1. Time: 12:10pm. Turn: 19. Weather: Clear. Vision: Daylight. Movement: 20'

Lantern oil used Ben and Fiene: 13 Turns

Barnabas looked over the chamber, now a promising ossuary.

"I had hoped that they had topazes for eyes," he laments.

He then asks Teodore to lead the way into the eastern chamber, assuring him that he'll be "lighting the way" right behind him.
This message was last edited by the player at 23:02, Mon 18 Jan 2021.

"By the grace of Auril, return to your well deserved sleep"

Beryl was uncertain if being undead was in any way painful to the person they had once been, but the holy teaching says they are an abomination. He was proud to have been able to do his part.

Anfinn came to follow the others. Strength in numbers on the mind of the scrawny man.

Beryl wondered at the proper disposal of the bones. Should they be buried? At the very least he felt they should be exposed to the cleansing light of the sun and they sky.

If memory serves, we are pretty close to the exit. He will piles the bones up outside.

"Could someone help me?" he asks of the others.

In the middle room Ben and Anfinn awaited someone braver to venture forward whilst Beryl began to gather up the skeleton bones and take them outside into the canyon. The bones were worn with age and many were now broken. Nothing untoward prevented Beryl from his task but every time he entered the room to gather more bones the room remained shadowed in darkness.

"Any hints on the shadows in here? They seem oddly... shadowy?"


If someone will loan him a light source, he will move about the room while examining the shadows to see if they seem stronger in any one place. Also if they seem to be emanating from somewhere, or simply placed here by some magic beyond his ken.

Obligingly, Ben illuminates the ossuary to better scrutinize the shadows.

Afterward, with Teodore's mind and heart apparently elsewhere, he nudges Fienne.

"Let's the four of us look to the eastern chamber."

Helped by Ben's lantern Beryl searched every corner of the room. Regardless of where Ben held the lantern the room remained in dim shadows. There did not seem to be source of the darkness apart from the room as a whole.

"Dark magic," Beryl suggests, enjoying the play on words. "Doesn't seem much else we can do about it though. Has anyone with proper skills checked to see if there was perhaps a hidden door here? The skeletons might have been guarding something."

Barnabas smiles at Beryl. It's not something he does well.

"Come now, we can't scratch at every wall. Let's explore elsewhere for now."

"Seemed worth scratching a wall guarded by shadow magic and skeletons", Beryl muttered, but he wasn't gonna do it, not his skill set.

Unless Ben was working against the party, (certainly possible he guessed), there was no need to press the issue, unless they found no other way forward.

"It is a curious phenomena."   Fiene comments.  "but not seemingly dangerous nor profitable."  He moves with Ben towards the eastern passage.

The mystery of the shadows bypassed for now the three adventurers explored the east room. The walls of thirty foot by twenty foot room were decorated in bas reliefs of figures and scenes. The images were defaced and unintelligible. In the room's centre was a five foot high and eight foot square stone cenotaph. The cenotaph was a hemisphere mounted on an octagonal base. The cenotaph was covered in writings.

Following along, hopeful that ignoring the shadow wont come back to kill us when we are not looking, Beryl gives the memorial to someone buried elsewhere a look, but does not touch. Can he read any of the writing?

Careful not to touch the cenotaph Beryl walked around it. There were inscriptions around it, the language of the inscriptions were uniformly unintelligible to Beryl from whatever side he viewed it.

Barnabas is a bi-lingual lad, speaking both his native tongue and Elvish. He joins Beryl in his scrutiny of this monument. If he doesn't recognize the language, he will try to commit a couple of the lines to memory to share with someone who does. He sees if he can rotate it.

It seems a curious place for a cenotaph unless this entrance had been heavily trafficked in ages past.

Ben can make no sense of the writings whatsoever.

"When we have this location secured, I can discern if these are magical runes, and thus decipher them."

Another set of eyes examined the inscriptions on the cenotaph but Valerian could understand them either.

OOC

Day: 1. Time: 12:20pm. Turn: 20. Weather: Clear. Vision: Daylight. Movement: 20'

Lantern oil used Ben and Fiene: 14 Turns

Was Ben able to rotate it?

Barnabas agrees with Valerian, "A mystery for another time."

"From another time," he adds. "You know, the gate house, did we pass through it too quickly?"

Acting on his own question, he heads back towards it, the southern breach.

OOC No other obvious places to explore in this southern cave, right?
This message was last edited by the player at 17:15, Fri 22 Jan 2021.

When Ben touched the hemisphere of the cenotaph he was chilled, the monument was very cold to touch. The dome was smooth and cold but did not rotate in either direction when Ben tried to turn it.

Back outside the afternoon air was warm and the unpleasant feeling that all had felt in the shadowed cave began to melt away. Looking back toward the gatehouse the adventurers could see as well as the wide passageway they had passed through were two smaller doorways on the west wall. The nearest door was thirty foot along the wall and the other a further seventy foot north.

A little put off by the chaotic energy of his comrades, Beryl simply shrugs. If the others suddenly have an urge to checkout the gate house, he would follow along.
This message was last edited by the player at 15:23, Sat 23 Jan 2021.

"Our goal is knowledge and riches." Fiene offers. "And so far seems to offer little.  The gatehouse might still have something of value.  I'm all for easy pickings."

The two entrances into the gatehouse are open and doorless.

Barnabas and Nerida lead the way into the southern breach.

Exploring the entrance Barnabas finds the doorway clear, rusted broken hinges showing where the door once stood. Leading into the building was a narrow five foot wide corridor. Twenty five foot along the corridor was another corridor leading south, thirty foot along the corridor there was doorway in the northern wall, further than that was shadowed in darkness.

Gates of hell
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:44, Tue 26 Jan 2021.

Teodore and Hopkins move in next.

Following Barnabas to the gatehouse Teodore and Hopkins see the same narrow corridor. The inside is dirty, dark and dusty.

"Careful, a gatehouse tends to have a defensive purpose, no clue what there might be in there designed to hamper passage."

"Naturally," Barnabas agrees. "But I would counter that a pit trap would be most impracticable in a gatehouse."

He shines his light down the eastern corridor and then attempts to open the door in front of them.

"Don't recall suggesting a pit trap. Do you hear voices?"

The mysteries of the gatehouse caused some confusion amongst the adventurers. The first to enter was Ben accompanied by the skittish Nerida. Once inside Ben's lantern lit the short corridor, showing three doors. Ben reached the first door and pushed it open. The room within was thirty five foot by twenty foot, so Ben's lantern light left shadowed corners. Rusted weapons, armour, ruined adventuring supplies and old bones lay strewn upon the ground. In the middle of the room was a long cold fire. Sitting around the old campfire were five transparent adventurers, seemingly at rest. They appeared to be in conversation and busying performing menials task but no sound was heard by Ben. Nerida turned pale at the sight of the ghost like spirits.

Gates of hell

OOC

Day: 1. Time: 12:30pm. Turn: 21. Weather: Clear. Vision: Daylight. Movement: 20'

Lantern oil used Ben and Fiene: 15 Turns
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:43, Tue 26 Jan 2021.

Standing outside, Beryl peers in after the others, and wonders at what they might have found. Glancing about, he tried to gauge if he is on what was once the inside or the outside of the gate. Was there a town here? A fort?

The Stonehell dungeon was located beneath the foothills of the mountains. The entrance was built within a box canyon. At the mouth of the canyon stood an old curtain wall which they have passed through to get inside the canyon. Within the curtain wall was the gatehouse which Ben had bravely or foolishly entered. The adventurers were on the inside of the box canyon and ruins of old fallen down building were all around them.

So these were the outbuildings of the old prison, and we are on the inside looking through the gatehouse to the outside. Got it, thanks.

These rooms are built into the curtain wall. Accessible only from the inside of the curtain wall. The gap in the middle is the tunnel running through the wall which allows entry and exit from the canyon.
This message was last edited by the GM at 22:03, Sun 24 Jan 2021.

"Man, I know you didn't," Barnabas shoots back. His attempt at brusque joviality fails to come off likely because it was not accompanied by a commensurate physical gesture such as a too-heavy clap on the back.

"I don't hear anything except our voices. They're probably discussing whether to accept Connor into their party or not."

He studies their lips. Maybe lip reading is one of his nascent talents just waiting to bloom.

Regardless, he presses on to the southern-facing door close by and opens it.

Having the mercurial Ben around really makes Beryl wish he had a good womping stick. Unaware of what they have found, he wanders a bit, and enjoys the fresh air.

As Ben watched the spectral figures continued to silently complete their mundane chores. Ben practice of magic and magic words gave him some insight into the spoken word. He however could not discern much about what the figures might be speaking about, they mouths were insubstantial and rather hard to see. From what he did gather they appeared to be speaking common and their actions indicated nothing of import was being discussed.

Leaving the ghosts behind Ben tried the door to the south. Ben pushed it open. The room was a square, twenty foot by twenty foot. The room was empty beside a single splintered chair.

Outside the gatehouse the air was pleasant enough, the smoke of Connor's pyre had dwindled to a thin trail and the air was fresher. The bear Coal had not emerged from its cave. To the west a copse of trees was visible before the box canyon ended about four hundred feet away from Beryl.

Gates of hell

OOC Is Ben closing the doors after he opens them? I will presume people are closing the doors unless you state otherwise.

Day: 1. Time: 12:40pm. Turn: 22. Weather: Clear. Vision: Daylight. Movement: 20'

Lantern oil used Ben and Fiene: 16 Turns
This message was last edited by the GM at 09:57, Sat 30 Jan 2021.

Fiene pauses at the campfire, commenting to Ermandgard.  "Makes you want to relight the campfire,doesn't it."  He looks around for something flammable.

"Hang on a moment," says Teodore. He fetches the ruined chair from the room Ben just opened and brings it in to Fiene as fuel for a fire.

The ghostly spectacle continued as Fiene went into the room to investigate. Ermangard was cautious but not as stricken with the same fear as Nerida. The phantasmal adventurers did not react to the advances of Fiene but carried on with their tasks, moving around the campfire and room. There were many bones and ruined supplies scattered about the ground. As Fiene fetched some and returned to the old campfire one of the ghostly figures moved and passed through Fiene. Insubstantial the ghost passed straight through Fiene but he felt deathly cold afterward.

Resourcefully Teodored fetched the broken and splintered chair from the nearby room. The fighter brought the firewood to Fiene who was looking a bit pale but otherwise unharmed.

OOC The ghost inflicted 1 point of damage to Fiene by its contact.

Amused, Ben notes Fiene and Teodore's effort to help set up camp for the damned. It really didn't look like they'd be going anywhere ... for an eternity.

Leaving the door to the now empty room open behind him, he next opens the westward-facing one.

Ben went to open the last door. Behind the door was a small ten foot by ten foot room. The room had a musty, mildew smell. Rotten wooden shelves lined the walls.

In the south west corner of the gatehouse was a spiral staircase leading upwards.

OOC

Day: 1. Time: 12:50pm. Turn: 23. Weather: Clear. Vision: Daylight. Movement: 20'

Lantern oil used Ben and Fiene: 17 Turns

Fiene shudders, taking a step back.  "So cold..." he murmurs. "Don't let them touch you." he warns as he takes more care with proximity.  He continues to light the campfire, now for himself as much as them.

The teamwork of Fiene and Teodore brought fire and warmth to ghostly scene. The old splintered chair burnt well and the light of glowing flames began to banish the insubstantial forms of the ghostly phantasms, although some element of their presence persisted in half seen flickers of movement caught in the corners of the adventurers eyes.



OOC

Day: 1. Time: 1:00pm. Turn: 24. Weather: Clear. Vision: Daylight. Movement: 20'

Lantern oil used Ben and Fiene: 18 Turns

Anything on the shelves?

Furiously nictitating, Barnabas indicates that all interested parities should follow him upstairs to the second level of the gate house, especially Teodore.

The shelves are made of spongy wood with a musty smell, all the shelves were empty.

Barnabas then led the way up the stone spiral staircase. The staircase led to a room thirty-five foot by twenty-five foot. As well as Ben's lantern light there was sunlight entering the room by four alcoves with silted windows. Cobwebs, debris and dead leaves were scattered around the room. In the middle of room was an overturned trestle table, ruined garments hung from pegs on the wall and a pile of old clothing lay in the southeastern-most alcove.

Gates of hell

OOC Roll d6 for surprise.
This message was last edited by the GM at 22:17, Fri 05 Feb 2021.

12:37, Today: Ben rolled 4 using 1d6.  surprise.

Roosted in the rafter are three birdlike creatures. Small feathered creatures with long noses. Ben saw the creatures at the same time as they turned to watch his entry into the room.

OOC Declare your intentions.

Anfinn decided on cowardice and stayed out of the room.

Ben: Cast Sleep
Nerida: Guard Ben

Teodore waits behind Ben for any screams of terror from the magic-user. If the three winged creatures hit the deck, Teodore will move to kill them as quickly as possible.

OOC Roll for Initiative. Monster Initiative was a 5, so on a 6 post your actions. On a 5 reroll. On anything lower... oh dear the monsters get to act first.

13:56, Today: Ben rolled 1 using 1d6.  init.

The birdlike creatures shuffled in their roost and fluffed up their feathers. The three of them chittered and squeaked at the interruption. However they made no attempt to attack, staying in their roost in the rafters.

OOC Actions-Movement-Missile-Magic-Melee.

Something beyond their elongated proboscises alarms Barnabas. Something deeper. As if generations of his ancestors had encountered their ancestors and took no chances. He envelops them within an enchanted slumber. Nerida sees to it that they do not wake from it.

16:42, Today: Ben rolled 9 HD using 2d8.  sleep.

Sorcerous spells and magic words, Ben summoned the powers of magic to charm the stirges into enchanted slumber. The creatures in their roost quietened their squawking and fell asleep. They kept their  position in the roof.

Trying her best Nerida swung her hammer but couldn't reach the creatures.

OOC The stirges are defeated and will sleep for a long time. It's up to you how you want to deal with them.

If he can reach them himself by standing on the trestle table after it has been righted, Ben will dispatch them one by one with his dagger. Or maybe he'll have to stand on the table and then boost Nerida to his shoulders, so she can reach them with a blade.

Then he can search room at his leisure, especially the pile of old clothing in the SE corner.

Fiene warmed himself by the fire, trying to ward of the chill that cut through to his bones.  He didn't know if it made the spirits feel better, but it was helping him.  He looks around the room, trying to tell if the spirits persisted.

Together and with use of the table, now righted and placed under the roost, Nerida and Barnabas slaughtered the sleeping stirges. Investigation of the south east corner revealed that it was not a pile of old clothing but the body of a dead woman in a dress and cloak. The body lay on its chest.

On the lower floor Fiene warmed himself up. The firelight banished the cold and kept the ghostly images away but Fiene could sense their lingering spirits in half caught glimpses or the odd unexplained shiver that ran down his spine.

Bertilak the Green, a tall, slim man in fur-trimmed green robes approaches the gatehouse. A tough looking woman in chainmail trails behind him. "I say, Arietta, this looks like the group we were sent to help. They don't look like goblins, anyway."

OOC: DM gave me permission to join the party. Hi guys!

The companionship offered by Arietta on the road was prickly, her mood contrary to whatever chitchat Bertilak offered. So for the main part the pair travelled in silence through the foothills. The road although neglected showed signs of regular traffic. Nearer the river the road skirted a dank marsh from which the foothills rose. Once past the marsh the road threaded through a wooded forest. After several uneventful miles the road terminated at the mouth of a narrow box canyon that bisected a high cliff wall. Steep cliffs and tall mountains beyond the defile loomed overhead.

At the mouth of the canyon stood an old curtain wall that has crumbled in places, leaving large gaps. The gatehouse doors lay rotting on the ground before it and spaces between the rusty portcullis allowed easy access. Through the portcullis Bertilak met some of the others as they explored the gatehouse.

Greed wars with modesty within Barnabas before raising the white flag as it must do in polite company. It is thus Nerida who searches the body of the fallen woman for any valuables.

As she does so, he hears fresh voices from below, one belonging to an Arietta. Always the opportunist, Ben descends to the first floor and entreats their owners to join him in further exploration of the second floor of the ancient gatehouse.  For some reason, Fiene, an able, young man by all appearances had turned dilatory and stood by a campfire -- unable to banish inexplicable chills.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:11, Wed 03 Feb 2021.

Reluctant but following orders Nerida turned over the body of the dead woman. A pouch on her girdle revealed treasure of ten gold coins and a gem. When returned downstairs she followed nervously.

Arietta welcomed Ben with a frown and folded arms, ignoring his pleads to enter the gatehouse. She remained on guard beside Bertilak and didn't seem willing to offer to do any extra work.

Bertilak steps up to Ben with a big grin. "Greetings explorers, I am Bertilak the Green. I was told that an intrepid band of adventurers were exploring these ruins, and I have come to lend my hand, and hopefully earn enough treasure to continue my studies of things arcane. Oh, and this is my bodyguard, Arietta Arundel."

Fiene shivers, having gotten as warm as he can.  "Come, Ermangard, let us catch up." He says stepping towards the stairs to make his way up.  "I don't think there is more here."

Recovered somewhat from the ghostly chills Fiene led Ermangard up the stairs. The stairway led to room thirty-five foot by twenty-five foot. Sunlight entered the room from four alcoves. Cobwebs, debris and dead leaves were scattered around the room. In the middle of the room was a trestle table with three recently killed stirges laid on it. Ruined garments hung from pegs on the wall and the body of dead woman laying face up was in the south east corner. There was a doorway in the north wall.

Cheerfully, Ben replies, "A happy day brings you here, Bertilak."

Wait. Was it Bertilak? Might it have been Beryl? Bertilak. Beryl. A haze clouds his mind. Figures seem to waver and become indistinct.

He follows the others back up the stairs and into the room where the robed woman had died (or had been brought to die?). There was the unopened door.

"Nerida, it's your turn," he reminds her.
This message was last edited by the player at 02:11, Fri 05 Feb 2021.

Nervously Nerida went to the door and opened it. Nothing flew out to assault her and she shakily walked forward. The room was the same size as the previous room, as well as the four alcoves letting in light there was a large gaping hole in the ceiling. There was no roof in the south west corner whatsoever, the hole being about fifteen foot by twenty foot. Signs of water damage and rot were prevalent, the floor creaked and groaned as Nerida walked upon it. A staircase led to a trap down in the roof and another door was in the northern wall.

Gates of hell

OOC

Day: 1. Time: 1:10pm. Turn: 25. Weather: Clear. Vision: Daylight. Movement: 20'

Lantern oil used Ben and Fiene: 19 Turns
This message was last edited by the GM at 22:16, Fri 05 Feb 2021.

"Ware, Nerida!" Fiene calls in warning. The girl might be young, but was still wearing heavy armors.  "Let me prove the floor, it sounds unhale." he offers, gesturing with his long pole.  He hands the lantern to Ermangard and begins tapping on the floor, only standing where it seems stout.

The warning from Fiene had Nerida frozen in place. Prodding with his long pole Fiene tested the floorboards. There was much creaking and groaning but where Fiene poked the boards they held and were safe. Nerida was able to take the opportunity to safely retreat.

Fiene was able to cross the rotten floorboards without accident to explore around the room.

One floor at a time, Barnabas counsels himself. He crosses the room to reach the far door and opens it, keeping to the tested spots as well as he is able.

"My turn," he acknowledges. On whose turn will this game end, he morbidly ponders.
This message was last edited by the player at 21:36, Fri 05 Feb 2021.

The path tested by Fiene was creaky and the floorboards groaned as Ben crossed the room and opened the door. Beyond the door was a dark room. There were no alcoves to allow daylight in. Ben's lantern light revealed a room that was thirty-five foot by twenty foot. Six murder holes led down to the passageway below. Beside the murder holes were piles of stones. Situated above the portcullises were hand cranks.

Gates of hell

OOC

Day: 1. Time: 1:20pm. Turn: 26. Weather: Clear. Vision: Daylight. Movement: 20'

Lantern oil used Ben and Fiene: 20 Turns
This message was last edited by the GM at 19:32, Sun 07 Feb 2021.

Fiene moves to check the stairs leading to the roof, getting the feeling that this has all been ransacked before, leaving nothing for them.

It definitely stood to reason that the gatehouse had been visited many times and stripped of much of its treasure. The only remaining treasure would be either worth little or well hidden. Fiene used his tested path to reached the stairway and went up to the trapdoor. The trapdoor groaned as it opened. Through the trapdoor was the gatehouse roof. The roof of worn stone was splattered with bird droppings. Another trapdoor was set in the roof eighty foot to the north.

Anfinn made his way to follow the others.. nervousness took  over. The thief padded his way in his attempt to follow the footteps of his compatriots.

The wizard pads across the roof, testing the structure before each step. He hops the other trapdoor is not locked from the inside.

The roof proved sturdy enough and with careful progress Fiene followed closely by Ermangard made it to the second trapdoor. The trapdoor like the last was rusty and old but the work of Fiene and Ermangard pulled it open with a loud groan.

Light of foot and cautiously stepping where the others had Anfinn made it across the rotten floorboards of the room. Rather good at making sure he was not heard the  floorboard noticeably creaked and groaned less than the others. Anfinn caught up with Ben in the middle room with the murder holes. Rather than be left alone Nerida slowly made her way to catch up with Barnabus, the floor nosily complaining as the hevaily armour girl crossed.

On the roof Fiene peered down the trapdoor. The trapdoor led to another set of stairs, similar to the first. The room likewise was of similar size with four alcoves permitting light to enter. Throughout the room as well as the usual dust, dirt and debris were many broken casks and crates. A buzzing noise emanated from the room.

Gates of hell

OOC

Day: 1. Time: 1:30pm. Turn: 27. Weather: Clear. Vision: Daylight. Movement: 20'

Lantern oil used Ben and Fiene: 21 Turns.
This message was last edited by the GM at 19:32, Sun 07 Feb 2021.

"Bees?" Fiene says, looking at Ermangard.  "Maybe there is some wild honey." He adds with a smile.   He lays down, and hangs the lantern down into the room, trying to see if there is a swarm or a hive somewhere before climbing down into the room.  He wasn't interested in getting stung.

Laid on the ground with his ear close to the ground the buzzing was louder. Taking the time to observe Fiene saw flying insect buzzing around the room. They appeared to be more concentrated in the south west corner.

Fiene makes his way down the stair, not making any aggressive movements.  He avoids the southwest corner, and looks around the room.  If he finds nothing of interest, he will make his way to the north door.

On entering the room Fiene can saw black and red wasps droning through the air. He spotted a nest hung in the southwestern alcove. Below the nest was an intact cask with a leather satchel upon it. The wasp flew around much of the southern half of the room but but did interrupt travel from the bottom of the stairway to the northern door.

Gates of hell

OOC Wasp swarm indicated by red spotty cloud.
This message was last edited by the GM at 19:33, Sun 07 Feb 2021.

Having heard no cry of alarm, Barnabas leads Nerida up to and then across the roof, motioning for the others to follow, before joining Fienne on the second floor of the northern expanse of the ruined gatehouse. The wasps can enjoy their dominion another day, he judiciously decides.

Wordlessly, he pokes Nerida. She knows what this means. Though their partnership hasn't surpassed a day, they have begun to know each and other and what is meant by this and what is meant by that.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:43, Mon 08 Feb 2021.

Cleverly avoiding any trouble with the wasps the party of adventurers took to the roof of the gatehouse. With encouragement from Ben the very young Nerida opened the last door. The room was thirty-five foot by twenty-five foot and similar to the other rooms sunlight entered from four alcoves. An ash-filled fire ring was in the centre of the room. Near to the fire ring was a stack of chopped-up furniture. Detritus and dead leaves covered the floor, with many small footprints in the dirt. Close to the north wall was a trapdoor in the floor.



OOC

Day: 1. Time: 1:40pm. Turn: 28. Weather: Clear. Vision: Daylight. Movement: 20'

Lantern oil used Ben and Fiene: 22 Turns.

Anfinn walked over to the trapdoor and began to do a check for traps in his own odd manner.

The thief crossed the room and passed the old fire pit. Examination of the trapdoor showed it had been regularly used but Anfinn spotted no traps on or near it.

With Ermangard close by, Fiene opens the door. He hopes the residents are not at home.

The trapdoor when opened by Fiene groaned loudly. Below the trapdoor was an iron ladder going down twelve foot to a corridor heading south.

Hanging the lantern down below, if he finds nothing of danger will climb down the ladder to the lower level.

There was nothing moving in the corridor below, so what danger may lurk there were out of sight. Taking his lantern down the ladder Fiene reached a short corridor, himself at a dead-end. There was a door to close to him on the west and another at the end of the corridor to the south.



OOC

Day: 1. Time: 1:50pm. Turn: 29. Weather: Clear. Vision: Daylight. Movement: 20'

Lantern oil used Ben and Fiene: 23 Turns.

Many small footprints, Ben observes. This further distinguishes it from the other two campsites they had found earlier in the day. He's grateful for this distinction for so much else seems to be coming or going.

Another door and another turn for Ben. He opens it but not before listening for the sound of any who might have small feet.

Down the ladder Ben approached the door. Cautiously he listened to the door for any sounds of what the room might contain. Ben heard naught so pushed open the door. The room behind the door was twenty foot by fifteen foot. When the door opened a dismal odour emerged. Inside the room was another fire pit, crudely made it contained glowing coals. A spit of half eaten meat was roasting. In the corners of the room where scattered rough hides. Closer to the fire and in the midst of eating where five small grotesque humanoids with pallid skin and red eyes.

OOC Roll for Surprise, the goblins are not surprised.

Day: 1. Time: 2:00pm. Turn: 30. Weather: Clear. Vision: Daylight. Movement: 20'

Lantern oil used Ben and Fiene: 24 Turns.

Bertilak seems uneasy as the party moves through the gatehouse. He remains close to Arietta, and quiet. As the party descends back to the ground floor at the far end of the gatehouse, he finally says, "I do have a sleep spell that might help with those wasps. But if it only affects a small portion of them, we would still not be able to reach the items under their hive. Perhaps we should prepare some smoke-creating brands with green plants wrapped around torches, just in case my spell is less than fully potent?"

Then Ben opens the door to the room containing goblins, and Bertilak stops and stares in disbelief...

OOC: Do we have a party caller to make surprise rolls? Do we each roll individually?

06:57, Today: Bertilak the Green rolled 2 using 1d6.  Surprise roll.

Not good. :D

In the midst of their eating the five goblins looked at Barnabus with curiosity. They put down their meals and picked up spears but did not attempt an attack.

OOC Whoever gets to the dice roller first get to make the roll. This time the party was surprised but the goblins chose not to attack.

"Hold."  Fiene says softly to the party.   "Friends..." he calls to the goblins.   "I am glad we found you." He gestures to the one who seems best equipped.

Teodore lowers his sword and shield, but makes no move to sheathe his sword, allowing Fiene to take the lead here.

The goblins curiosity about Barnabus began to grow to alarm as others began to peer inward to their sanctuary, especially the sight of warrior like Teodore. They began to hold their spears more nervously. At a glance Fiene spotted that one of the goblins wore a large copper nose ring and selected that goblin as the target of his spell. Garbled words and a flourish of hands completed the act of wizardry. Noticeably the goblin relaxed and put down his spear. The other goblins looked a bit confused.

Fiene's attempt at parlay was met with gibberish nonsense in reply as the goblin spoken in an unknown language. The nose-ringed goblin shook its head in a statement of mutual incomprehension then picked up a chunk of roasted meat and held it out as an offer to the wizard.

"Does any speak goblin?" Fiene asks.  "I know a bit of orc, perhaps they do as well."  He says "Thank you, friend." in orcish, and accepts the meat.

There were some similarities between orcish and goblins but they were not the same. A few words were understood and Fiene's peaceful actions combined were enough to placate the goblins who returned to their eating.

The meat was rank. It had been cooked but had been rotten and spoilt. There was more meat on the spit, identifiable as some herd animal, perhaps goat from the hills or deer from the forest. At least it wasn't anything more worrying. As well as the meat being spoilt the room had a foul odour. The goblins slept in rough hides which lay around the edges of the room and their hygiene was very poor.

The goblins wore simple clothing made from hides and leathers with few other belongings. Each had a spear near to hand and a pouch hung on their belt. The only identification of their leader was a large copper ring worn through his nose.

Barnabas blinks a few times. How could he have not heard the feeding of goblins? Did this genus of goblin possess the genetic trait of etiquette? That was something, he had always read, that only the best are born with.

Uncertain of what to say, he offers, "Well, then. We can return tomorrow and harvest another one."

With that he points at the unopened door and gives Nerida a meaningful look. It does not occur to him that nose ring should probably take their place in this game.

There were many factors to consider when listening at a door, the many other ambient sounds, the acoustics of the building, and many others distractions along being able to decipher what the noise was when heard. Stumped by this enigma Barnabas left Fiene with his goblin friends and sent Nerida to open another door.

Obediently Nerida opened the door. The room mirrored the room in size to the one on the other side of the gateway, thirty-five by twenty feet with three alcoves. Broken pieces of wood, leaf litter and dirt was scattered across the floor. When the door had been opened goblins, three of them one in each alcove turned to face Nerida. Each held a bow and arrow in their hands.



OOC Someone roll for Surprise.

Day: 1. Time: 2:10pm. Turn: 31. Weather: Clear. Vision: Daylight. Movement: 20'

Lantern oil used Ben and Fiene: 25 Turn.

09:25, Today: Ben rolled 2 using 1d6.  surprise roll.

The appearance of the armoured and armed warrior in the doorway had the three goblins archers on a back foot. They had been prepared to snipe any unsuspecting travellers not fight face to face.

The goblins had nowhere to run so held their ground with bows ready, waiting for something to happen.
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:46, Wed 10 Feb 2021.

Barnabas closes the door, leaving the three goblin archers in their state of readiness.

He instructs the others to all follow him into the goblin kitchen, close the door behind them, and then to kill the cooks. From his previous experience, he has determined the chamber to be all but soundproof.

The goblin archers watched as Ben closed the door. What they did behind the closed door was unknown. Ben then returned to the other room where the goblins were eating.

OOC I'll wait for everyone to post their actions before we determine what happens next.

With a nod, Valerian draws his dagger and follows with the others.

Fiene steps away from the door, backing towards the stairs.  He doesn't draw a weapon, but keeps Ermangard nearby to defend him.

Bertilak mentally prepares himself to cast his spell if necessary. He motions for Arietta to move up to the door with the others, and he follows right behind her.

"No other way to avoid combat?.." His voice squeaked then he reluctantly grasped his weapon.

The goblins sat around the fire and chewed on the spoilt venison. The goblins remained subdued whilst Fiene sat with them. When Fiene stepped away they continued to eat and were not bothered by the arrival of the other adventurers.

Ben stood by the door as the others moved closer to the foul smelling goblins. Anfinn backed away as the fighters positioned themselves ready for battle. The coterie of wizards took their positions at the rear.



OOC The party has gained surprise over the goblins. Everyone gets an action. Ben can close the door but it will split the party. It's difficult to see in the map but the door is between Bertilak and Fiene. Fiene and Valerian are both outside the room in the corridor. As you have the surprise action you can move positions before we get into combat and initiative.

Did Fiene eat any of the meat?

'Goblin' is wearing the copper nose ring, the other goblins 1-4 have no distinctions marks.

Day: 1. Time: 2:20pm. Turn: 32. Weather: Clear. Vision: Daylight. Movement: 20'

Lantern oil used Ben and Fiene: 26 Turn.

Valerian casts Shield on himself in case he has to drag any wounded companions to safety.

Ben throws a dagger at one of the closer goblins. It's not a bad throw, all things considered.

17:03, Today: Ben rolled 13,1 using d20,d4.  dagger throw v  4.

ooc: Fiene did not eat anything.

Fiene waits in the hallway for the violence to end.

As they had been ordered to the three woman-at-arms surrounded the goblins and struck at them. Sword, spear and hammer were cut, thrust and swung. Arietta as surly in battle as she was in all her pursuits deftly stabbed a goblin wounding it. Ermangard's spear was on target but failed to pierce the goblins hide armour. Inexperience showed with Nerida's wild swinging of her hammer which missed it's target entirely.

OOC Bertilak, Anfinn and Teodore all still up to act.

Teodore attacks the goblin with the nose ring, but it's an iffy swing at best.

13:44, Today: Teodore rolled 2 using 1d8+1.  Goblin damage?

13:43, Today: Teodore rolled 12 using 1d20+1.  Attack Goblin.

Bertilak finds himself a bit closer to the goblins than he would prefer, but I decides it is not the time to use his magic. He pulls his silver dagger from its scabbard and prepares to defend himself.

OOC: I don't think there's an official "defend yourself" rule in BX, but if there is, I'll use it! :D

OOC Ok that's the surprise round over (Anfinn you can catch and take your actions whenever you next post) so we now need declaration - please declare what's in your hands, if you are going to disengage and if you are planning to casting any spells this round.