Surin's plan, reservations
Subject Surin's plan
I thought Ally was going to be disguised as the evil cleric and riding up front?
He wont have to sit with the bodies. That's going to be Salix, Kal, Ragnar and little Surin.
Harp, Mund and Ran wil be/can be escorting the wagon.
Mark, how many "guards" went with Harp's wagon when he went to the estate?
From: Mark
Subject Surin's plan
Surin was trying to figure out a way to conserve spells. If Ally still wants to do the polymorph and take the shape of the cleric he can. He just has to let the party know.
From: Kevin
Subject Surin's plan
Oh, OK, I misunderstood.
Never mind.
From: Mark
Subject Turn
Ok everyone has checked in. I will try and get something out today, hopefully this morning. I have three quotes and 1 new item to do, so it would be later this morning.
From: Mark
Subject Surin's plan
OOC: Is there anything in game mechanics that would make us unable to do this as planned? (I.E. someone getting sick and throwing up in the middle of the wagon while entering the gate? Or is that all just narrative color?
From: Mark
Subject Surin's plan
I was going to roll a FORT check for the people in the wagon to see if they are nauseated while in the wagon. There is a very slight chance of the people in the wagon being found out and if that happens, then they would be in the nauseated status for the duration of that fight. Once they are out of the wagon, the nauseated status would quickly end.
It is more for color, but there is a real, if very tiny, chance it might affect things.
From: Kevin
Subject Surin's plan
Again, just plug their noses with small bits of rags and let them breath through their mouths. If they are breathing, no one will care so long as they are "tied" up. Live people have been brought here before, so it will not cause alarm.
From: Josh
Subject Reservations
Kal approaches Ragnar after the plan has been discussed and the details worked out. "I don't think I can go along with this plan. Surin's idea is an excellent one tactically, but I can't lay down with the dead. My God would not approve. It's disrespect to my fallen enemies, myself and my God. I don't want to endanger our mission, but I don't think I can go through with this in good faith."
From: Mark
Subject Reservations
I am going to hold off writing the turn until Kal and Ragnar get this worked out.
From: Porter
Subject Reservations
Scornfully, Mund says "What? You afeard of getting some dirt on your pretty clothes?"
From: Josh
Subject Reservations
Harp and Salix tense up when Mund speaks. All they need right now is another fight. Salix gives Harp a knowing look, and the Half-Orc prepares to intervene.
Kal, without breaking away from Ragnar responds simply, "I'm afraid of getting dirt on my soul. Have you figured out how you're going to convince the Barbarian tribes yet? I imagine you and Harp should discuss that before we get inside the compound."
From: Mark
Subject Reservations
Do elves have souls? :)
From: Kevin
Subject Reservations
Harp looks at Kal. The elf had saved his life just a few hours ago. He had earned Harp's respect. In fact, Harp owed him his life.
"Kal, if we were to wrap you in some type of cloth to keep you from touching the bodies, would that suffice? Or is it the idea of riding in the cart at all that is bothering you?"
From: Porter
Subject Reservations
"I thought that you were already trying to get the dirt off your soul. What was it that your elders told you to do again?"
From: Josh
Subject Reservations
Kal nods to Mund, "Of course." and then continues to talk to Harp.
"I think those bodies deserve a proper burial. Since we can't provide them with that I think they at least deserve respect. It is the habit of our enemies to misuse the dead for their ways, not ours. We should not fall to their level.
I hesitated to speak earlier because I do recognize the importance of this mission. Surin's plan is clever and effective, I don't mean to say otherwise. I just fear that it's moral price is too high."
From: Kevin
Subject Reservations
Harp's mind tries to grasp what Kal is saying. A proper burial?? Just a few hours ago these thugs had been trying to bash his and Kal's head in. Now he wanted to bury them??
"Kal, if these bodies belonged to innocent victims, like we almost were, then I would agree. But these "creatures" did not plan on burying us or any others they caught. I bet they didn't even plan on getting buried themselves, but sacraficed to their dark god. Using them to accomplish our goal would be the ultimate slap in his face."
From: Josh
Subject Reservations
OOC: I'm going to hold off responding for a bit to see if Jason wants to say anything.
From: Porter
Subject Reservations
"I've got an idea -- let's leave Kal behind to play in the dirt with the dead bodies, and the rest of us will go and do something useful." Mund says.
From: Kevin
Subject Reservations
Harp shoots Mund a sharp look.
"With what we are going to face we're going to need everyone we have. Give it a break and let me see if we can work this out."
From: Karl
Subject Reservations
"That's ENOUGH!" Salix shouts. He takes a minute to get his temper under control before continuing. "We don't have time for this." He turns to Kal, "Kal, I understand your reluctance to disrespect the dead, but we are not here to conduct funerals for anyone, let alone thugs and murderers. These bodies will end up in a wagon on its way to the estate whether we take them there or not. What we are trying to do should be understandable by any just God. Surely you agree that what we are doing for good outweighs any mere matters of etiquette or propriety."
OOC: Salix will wait for Kal's answer. If he is still reluctant or unwilling to compromise, Salix will say the following:
"Kal, I will not order you to do this, but then you only leave me this choice. We will go forward as planned. If you will not cooperate, you will have to find your own way out to the estate or abandon us. Either way, you will have to answer to your superiors for your choices, and to your God if you cause our mission to fail."
NOTE: Salix will not say this second part at all if Kal seems like he will be cooperative. I'm just sending it now because I won't be able to send more out today and I don't want to leave you guys hanging. We either persuade Kal or we leave him.
From: Kevin
Subject Reservations
OOC: I LOVE it when Salix gets tough and takes control. lol.
From: Josh
Subject Reservations
"Surely you agree that what we are doing for good outweighs any mere matters of etiquette or propriety."
If these were mere matters of etiquette or propriety I would agree, but I think this is a much larger issue. We are pawns in a war between gods. I think it is absolutely imperative that we consider the goodness of every one of our actions. This point has been made clear to us all, and particularly myself, after the events at the testing grounds. The gods saw fit to reprimand me for my rashness, and I did not take their words lightly.
Now more than ever we must act goodly lest we serve the very enemy we wish to defeat. If we use the dead to serve our needs he will be laughing as his pawn is defeated when all our souls are sullied with his fingerprints.
Ragnar, Harp, listen to the voice of your God. Does he not agree with me now? I hear my God's voice clearly. This course of action is wrong and we must not follow through with it. "
After a brief pause Kal turns to Harp, "These are men, not creatures. They may have sinned, but they are not evil by nature. They attacked us out ignorance, and the Gods saw fit to punish them for that action. It is not ours to judge them now."
He then turns to Salix: "If you need a more pragmatic reason to object to this plan, then perhaps this will sway you. If we fail, we will have given this foul cleric more material to work his evil deeds. We should consecrate these bodies and have the mockers hide them away from him, rather than bring these poor creatures back within his grasp."
OOC: Not to be a complete obstructionist, Kal intends to present an alternate plan. Just give me a few hours to figure out what it is. ;-)
From: Jason
Subject Reservations
Ragnar hesitates when Kal approaches him, and in that moment several others burst in. Finally, when Kal speaks again, Ragnar says "Kal, I would never advise you to do something that would disappoint your god. As a matter of fact, I don't believe that Heironeous would disapprove. These men are dead, and what is left behind is no more *them* than my armor is me. It is merely a shell we wear, a tool that allows us to do god's will.
I believe that when the servants of Nerull use the bodies of the dead to serve them in undeath, the good gods are offended because they make a mockery of life, which is a gift of the gods, and not because the bodies themselves were sacred.
Nevertheless, if you believe that Corellon Larethian would disapprove, we should be able to come up with another way to get you into the compound."
OOC:
Wow, look what happens when I go to class. That'll teach me to let the lesser priorities take over my life! I'll try to think of a way to get Kal in, or maybe he'll think of a plan. Ragnar still doesn't object to Surin's plan, but he will support Kal finding a different way in if he can.
From: Mark
Subject Reservations
This is role playing. I like it. It adds dimensions to the game that are not there otherwise.
I thought some players might have a problem with the plan, beyond just the physical aspect of it.
From: Josh
Subject Reservations
OOC: Nice response Jason. I'm going to wait to see how Harp and anyone else responds before I have Kal make up his mind completely.
From: Kevin
Subject Reservations
"Kal, I have to agree with Ragnar. Our teachings are that we accomplish good using the strength of our arms and the good in our hearts. We did not go out looking to kill these men last night - they waylaid us of thier own actions and with evil in their hearts. They challeneged us, and they lost. Their souls, such as they might have had, have gone to whatever judgement awaits them, for good or ill. What is left is a corpse that will decay no matter what we do. But, if we can use these bodies, just as we will use our swords, to stop the death of the Stormfather, then we use them like any other tool we have. My soul is ok with that. My bigger worry is what may happen out at that estate tonight. The blasphemy you felt from that cleric will be but a small portion of what will be unleashed if we don't stop this Faldor character."
From: Porter
Subject Reservations
Heh. Only an elf would be so thick-headed that he makes godfolk look reasonable.
From: Randy
Subject Reservations
"Kal, I too have studied the teachings of Corellon Larethian and, while I do not like the nature of this plan, I believe you are letting the words of the teachings get in the way of the spirit in which they are intended. If you have an alternative that will offer as much advantage as this plan, please present it. If not, we have no time to waste."
Ranthir is calm as he voices his opinion. He maintains eye contact with Kal while he speaks and does not look away before Kal responds.
From: Derek
Subject Reservations
OOC: At least we're not flaying the skin off of the bodies like they did in Serenity. And there it was the bodies of thier friends.
From: Mark
Subject Reservations
I never made that connection.
From: Porter
Subject Reservations
To what we're doing now, or within the movie?
From: Mark
Subject Reservations
I never made the connection to what the people in Serenity did to what the party might do now.
An alternate plan, DR
Subject An alternate plan
Josh, how is elf boy going to respond?
We are waiting with baited breath.
From: Josh
Subject An alternate plan
OOC: I've been thinking about this all night, I'll have a turn out today before 2:00 for sure.
Mark, this is a big estate. Do we know how they guard it? Can we see anything preventing us from just walking right up to one of those barns?
From: Mark
Subject An alternate plan
It is a large estate, in land size. The main building and the surrounding buildings are set on a rather large section of the estate. The main section of the estate is guareded by a large stone wall out by the street, with the one main gate to get in. The general grounds are patrolled by foot patrolls and the stone wall is patrolled by mounted patrolls. No one knows the schedule of the patrols.
From: Josh
Subject An alternate plan
Kal listens to what the others have to say, thinks for a while, and then responds:
I have not been entirely unconvinced by your words, but I don't think that it's correct to say our bodies are just shells. That would leave no explanation for the intricate rituals we are required by our Gods to perform on the dead." Salix moves around some, obviously impatient, "In any case, we certainly don't have time for a theological discussion at this point. Despite Ran's objection, I feel very strongly that Corellon Larethian would object to us using the dead in this way.
Fortunately, I don't think the dead bodies are necessary, Harp has brought living bodies in before, and it seemed that was the goal of that group of brigands last night. Harp, Ran and Mund act as if they've captured us and bring us in bound. We can bring the cart with us and have our armor and weapons on it. If we think it's necessary we can disguise one of us as the cleric from last night.
This has two benefits. One, we're not buried in a pile of bodies if something goes wrong. Two, we're not providing them with more fodder if we fail in our mission.
I don't think this method is any less safe than our original plan. If we disguise one of us as the cleric, then this seems safer to me. If not, then it seems about as safe."
Kal looks to the group, to see what they think.
From: Jason
Subject DR
I have a question concerning damage reduction. I've consulted the PHB 3.0, which was quite clear but left out some critical information, and also the online SRD which is 3.5, and which included the information I wanted but was not at all clear.
If I understand correctly, if someone has DR 5/silver, a silver weapon will do full damage, as will any weapon of +1 or greater. If its DR 5/+3, a +3 or greater weapon will do full damage.
What about DR 5/alignment? Obviously, a DR of 5/good is overcome by a holy weapon, DR 5/law is overcome by an axiomatic weapon, etc. Is it also overcome by a +1 weapon? Or since axiomatic/holy/etc. add a +2 bonus to the weapon, would it have to be +2? Or does the weapon *have* to be aligned to overcome that type of DR, no matter what its enhancement bonus is?
Thanks for your help.
From: Kevin
Subject An alternate plan
Harp has no objection to not taking the bodies. He did not think of bringing them in the first place, so he has no objection to this.
If Karl does not answer (he is leaving on travel and has asked me to take over Salix for a while), I do not believe that Salix will have an issue with this either. It was a good idea to add some extra cover to the plan, but not really needed. He just wants to get a move on and find the Stormfather.
From: Porter
Subject An alternate plan
Mund says "I say we're better off being smart and bringing the bodies for cover than with this elf -- you never know what he'll do to cause us trouble."
From: Mark
Subject DR
Actuall, I am fairly sure that you are off a bit on the rules for DR.
I am using 3.5 rules and have never used 3.0, so here it goes.
You are partially right. If a creature says DR5/silver, silver weapons cause full damage and all other weapons have 5 points of damage taken off. Magic weapons do not by pass this, as far as I know.
DR5/magic is bypassed by any enchanted weapon, even one that has an effect on it such as frost, burning etc.
DR/alingment needs to have a weapon that has the proper alignment.
Now I am fairly sure that a weapon has to have a +1 enchantment on it before any other effects can be added. So there is no such thing as a flaming sword that does not have a +1 bonus to it as well. So Mund has a +1 frost Axe but could not have just a Frost Axe.
I hope that makes sense. If you have any reference for 3.5 that shows differently let me know and I will look into it.
From: Randy
Subject An alternate plan
Ranthir feels the same way as Harp, but will side with Salix over Kal if it comes to it.
From: Kevin
Subject An alternate plan
If Mund is the only person who objects to leaving the bodies behind, Salix will go along with that plan. He will want Surin to show them some knots that look like they are tight but that can be released pretty quickly.
From: Derek
Subject An alternate plan
Allistair doesn't weigh in on the conflict. His body language is pretty obvious that he thinks Kal and Mund are both being idiots and they're wasting valuable time. He's fine using his Polymorph spell to masquarade as the cleric they killed if that's what the group decides to do. However he wants to do it himself, since he saw into his mind the most and therefore feels he can most accurately mimic his speech and actions.
From: Jason
Subject An alternate plan
Ragnar is perfectly happy with Kal's plan; that was the plan we had before we thought of the bodies anyways.
Out to the Estate
Subject An alternate plan
I think just a disguise self will work here. If you wear his clothes, have his scythe, and you nkow his mind (and you do), I think you should get some good circumstance bonuses.
Mark, my post earlier was not as clear as I would like. Salix will be amenable to not taking the bodies if it will get the plan moving forward. While he thinks the bodies are a good idea, he does not want to have a big fight slow them down and he does not want to risk having Kal try to get in another way. He will remind Mund that he thought the plan to sneak in with out the bodies originally was a good one and that they are just going back to that plan.
Load em up and move'm out. We're burning daylight. (What movie was that from?)
From: Mark
Subject An alternate plan
The Cowboys with John Wayne.
I will write something up this afternoon.
From: Mark
Subject Turn
Ok I have cleared my desk at the office and think I know what everyone wants to do.
I am going to start the write up in a few minutes. Hopefully it will be done before I leave work today in a few hours.
From: Mark
Subject Out to the estate
Salix listens to Kal's reasoning. He struggles with his dislike for the elf and his own distaste for what Surin has suggested. The druid remembers back to one of the early days of his training, when he had been told to stay with the body of a dear as it decomposed. Over a period of weeks Salix had seen what nature does when the flesh no longer has the spark of life. He had survived that experience. In fact it had taught him much about the relationship between life and death.
Now he wanted to force Kal to do things his way, make him submit. But was that the right thing? "Surin, can your plan work if we just pose as captured victims being taken to be sacrificed?" The halfling nods "Sure it will probably still work." "Ok" Salix says "then we will try it that way. Ally and Ran will be in the seat of the wagon with Ran driving. Harp and Mund can play guards in the back of the wagon over the top of the rest of us. We four" the druid points to himself, Surin, Kal and Ragnar "will be in the back, seemingly tied up, helpless."
He looks around, seeing what everyone thinks. Only Mund seems a bit put out. As the others head off to get ready Salix calls the barbarian over. "I know you are unhappy with my decision, but if there is trouble, at least you get to be ready, axe in hand." The druid smiles a bit as he says this and Mund returns an evil grin. The human then heads off with Surin to get rid of the bodies they had collected just a few hours ago.
An hour later the large wagon is rolling down the road towards the Mayor's estate. Ally is on the buckboard along with Ran who is handling the two horses with practiced ease. Harp and Mund stand over the other four in the back of the wagon. The tarp is thrown off at the moment so that they are a bit more comfortable. Surin has shown the other three how the trick ropes work. "Just pull right here" the halfling says "and the ropes will fall right off." Each of the three gives the ropes a try, getting a feel for the release. Again and again the party goes over the plan for what they will do if there is a problem at the gate.
As they get closer, maybe a half mile away, Ally, clad in the dead cleric's robes, turns "Ok, Ran you and Harp change places." The two quickly switch spots and the big half orc, unsnapping his sword at his side with one hand, takes the reins with the other. "Keep a good pace, like we are in a hurry" Ally reminds him. When they are about a 100 yards out Ally turns and acts' like he his hitting someone in the back of the wagon. As he does this he chants the powerful spell of shape changing and his features flow into that of the cleric Mund had killed earlier that day.
The mage turns back to the front of the wagon and shifts his mind. He thinks back to the putrid cesspool of thoughts and feelings he had immersed himself in earlier. How would that mind respond? What would such a vile, evil person say or do? Seconds later the wagon rumbles up to the front gate and the guards there call for them to halt. One of them calls out with no enthusiasm "Who goes there?" Ally takes a breath and answers "Olt, you fool, who does it look like. I have the last load from the house and I'm running late." He holds out the orders that the Mocker's had forged and hands them down. One of the younger guards rushes over, grabs them and returns to the head guard.
The man takes a few seconds to look at them and then speaks up "Who is that driving? I don't recognize him. I'd remember someone that big and ugly." Ally's response is practiced and quick "Who he is does not matter. I vouch for him and I'm in a hurry. Now let us pass or I may convince Faldor that you would be more useful down at the temple or in the ceremony tonight." The man shrinks back at those comments and quickly hands the papers back to the runner, who brings them back to Ally. "Ok, you know where to go. However, I can not spare any men to help you unload. There might be someone at the barn that can help. Now move."
Harp slaps the reins on the flanks of the horses and they lurch into a trot through the gate. Two minutes later Harp pulls the wagon to a stop outside of the barn where he had unloaded the bodies the other day. The large door stands open and in the back they can see two figures sitting on a couple of benches.
OODM: OK what does the party want to do now?
From: Kevin
Subject Out to the estate
Harp will wait for Allistair to say something. He will try to be as observant as he can (which is not saying much).
From: Derek
Subject Out to the estate
Allistair has to at least appear to be in charge right now. As they approach the barn, he tells Harp to slow down the wagon. As Harp does so, he quickly turns and speaks quietly to those behind him. "Hack will pull the wagon in and stop. We'll close the door and see what happens next. When I give the signal, quickly -and quietly- subdue or kill these two. Try and keep one alive, we need information before we leave the barn again."
As the wagon pulls into the barn, Allistair calls out to Mund and Ran. "Look alive, you good-for-nothings! Need to get these fresh ones into the barn. Too fresh, if you ask me. These scum are more use to us dead than alive," he chuckles to himself. After the wagon is completely in, Ally will call out to them again. "Hurry and close the doors! I'm in a hurry and need to get going. There's too much to do before the ceremony tonight!" After the doors are closed and covered by Mund and Ran, Allistair will address the two who were already in the barn. "Who are you two?" he snarls. "What are you doing here?"
From: Mark
Subject Out to the estate
One of the two men answers, his voice defensive "I am Hanz and this is Franz. We were assigned duty here Olt, just like we are every day. What are you doing here? We weren't told about no more shipments?" The two dressed in leather armor and carrying short swords move towards the wagon, but their weapons are not drawn.
From: Derek
Subject Out to the estate
OOC: Hanz and Franz? Are you running out of name ideas? Are they here to "Pump" IC: "Some of these worms gave me some trouble last night. I lost some of my hired muscle, and it took me a while to round these stragglers. Of course, those that fell still helped out. Everyone serves Nerul eventually, whether it be in life or death." Allistair shows his pointed teeth and gives an evil grin. "So who else is in here? Just you two? Where are everyone else?"
From: Mark
Subject Out to the estate
OODM: Hey when you have to make names up on the fly you do what you can. In game it should not raise any eye brows. In my real life evil game almost every city has a Bob the Blacksmith and an Al's Alchemy.
IDM: "Yeah we're alone. All the others are either at the temple or out at the alter getting ready for tonight. You need help with these?" Hanz, followed by Franz, start to walk towards the wagon.
OODM: If you want I will work on a map for tomorrow.
From: Porter
Subject Out to the estate
As Hanz and Franz talk to the cleric that Mund strangled to death earlier today, Mund moves behind them to take them by surprise if Alley signals.
From: Kevin
Subject Out to the estate
With a look at Allistair, Harp will jump down from the wagon and head over to where Hanz and Franz are, motioning with his head toward Ran and Mund to join him - sort of like they are going to hep these two unload the bodies. If the situation presents itself Harp will try to move behind one of them while he waits for Ran and/or Mund to get close to the other one and then Harp will attempt to grab the one closest to him over the mouth with one hand and grab what would be his sword arm with the other. As he does this, he will say to Ran and Mund "Take him"
From: Derek
Subject Out to the estate
Allistair calls back to Ran and Mund. "Are those doors secured? I don't want these scum to try and run off again!" If the answer is affirmative, Ally will tell Hanz and Franz, "Yeah I need help? You thnk I'm going to do it all myself? Get these dung-piles on thier feet! You know where to take them!"
As they are getting the prisoners up on their feet and out of the wagon, Allistair will try and get a bit more information before they spring the trap. "So are you two here on duty the whole evening? Anyone coming to relieve you? Do you know where Faldor is? I need to report this to him. Is he at the temple, or helping getting the totem ready for those barbarian fools?"
Allistair will continue the conversation until Harp, Ran, and Mund are in place, and everyone else is on their feet. Then he will return his voice to Allistair's normal voice and simply say, "get them, now."
From: Porter
Subject OUt to the estate
When he says that, Mun, already brandishing his axe, summons his inner bear (rages) and attacks from behind. It takes a concerted effort, but he manages to not yell out this time.
From: Derek
Subject Out to the estate
"Keep one alive!" Allistair calls out.
From: Jason
Subject Out to the estate
Ragnar will wait until the others engage, and only then will he pull his bonds loose and join the fray if it seems necessary.
From: Kevin
Subject OUt to the estate
Harp will have heard Allistairs request to keep one alive. He is just looking to keep the one he goes after quiet and unarmed. He does not expect much of a struggle from his guy.
OOC: Using a rage against these guys??? Isn't that overkill??
From: Porter
Subject Out to the estate
OOC: Overkill, possibly. But Mund has the "Extra Rage" feat, so he has rages to spare.
And so far in this entire campaign, not once has that feat helped him out.
Same thing with his "Extended Rage" feat.
:(
From: Randy
Subject Out to the estate
Ran positions himself close to the wagon and stays near Hanz and Franz, and says "Here, help me grab the dwarf. He looks like he might put up a fight."
Ran hopes to keep the two guards eyes on the wagon while Harp and Mund can move in behind them. Ran will draw his sword and assist his companions if it looks like either of the guards puts up much of a fight.
From: Kevin
Subject Out to the estate
If you had been surrounded by nine assailants for almost 1 1/2 minutes, it probably would have been useful.
From: Porter
Subject Out to the estate
You know, it's really too bad that you didn't say that before, as Mund is the one with Improved Grappling.
It's been kinda frustrating -- I haven't ended up using in combat a single one of Mund's feats, except during the last fight with Salix. Mund kept doing all that grappling, so I took Improved Grappling, and he hasn't had a chance to use it since.
From: Derek
Subject OUt to the estate
Allistair did say it before, as they were going up to the barn.
From: Kevin
Subject Out to the estate
Harp heard him say it.
Mund is just used to not listening to his brother. It always seems to be that way.
From: Mark
Subject Out to the estate
I have not written the turn so if you want to change what you want to do you may.
From: Porter
Subject Out to the estate
OOC: Yippie! Thank you, Easter Bunny!
IC:
When his brother's familar voice comes out of that ugly face which Mund had already had to kill once that day, he tackles one of the guards from behind, feeling his totem bear's strength fill him as he does.
"Kill the other one!" he says to his companions.
In the Barn
Subject In the barn
Ally's questions ring out in Olt's voice. Hanz and Franz answer as they move to help get the four bodies out of the wagon. "Yeah we're here all night, or at least until we are called to help out at the ceremony. Don't know where Faldor is but then the big muckty muck don't report to me. If you want to tell him somethin you probably should head over to the temple." As they are talking Harp, Ran and Mund are working their way around the two, basically surrounding them at the back of the wagon. As the two reach in to grab Salix's legs Ally's normal voice can be heard "Take them now." Almost as one the three fighters lunge at the two.
OODM: I have been busy with running errands and doing work around the house all day. I will get this taken care of tomorrow.
From: Derek
Subject In the barn
OOC: That was fun being an evil guy. Ally is definately going to get Alter Self as soon as possible.
Barn fight, new house rule
Subject Barn fight
Surprise round
Mund hisses in exaltation when he hears his brother say "Take them." He reaches out and grabs Hanz (AC11, 14+12=26,hit, grabbed. Opposed grapple check, Mund 16+12=28, Hanz 18+3=21, Mund wins). Mund slides his forearm around Hanz's throat and pulls, choking him (Damage 8, non-lethal). As Salix starts to sit up he sees Hanz's eyes bulge and the mans hands grab at Mund's bulging arm.
Harp strikes at Franz next (AC11, 4+10=14, hit, grabbed. Opposed grapple check, Harp 11+10,21, Franz 14+3=17, Harp wins). Harp reaches out with one hand and grabs Franz. His other hand slaps the back of Franz's head (Damage 6, non-lethal).
Ran, who was also next to Franz, takes advantage of Harp's hold and slaps Franz hard with his fist, right in the nose (Opposed grapple check, Ran 8+9=17, Franz 2+3=5, Ran wins, damage 4). Harp has to shift his weight a bit as Franz goes limp in his arms.
Round 1
Initiative Mund, Harp, Ran
Mund pulls his arm tighter around Hanz's throat (opposed check, Mund 1+12=13, Hanz 3+3=6, Mund wins) and the barbarian strains until the man stops struggling (Damage 8, non-lethal). Mund then picks the man up and tosses him up on the wagon. "Ok we gots us a couple of prisoners. What now?"
OODM: How do you want to proceed?
From: Mark
Subject new house rule
This is something I have been thinking about for a while and I am going to start using it in this game and my real life games to see how it works.
From now on, if a group or party gets surprise, they will also get a +4 to their initiative roll on when setting the INIT order for the remaining combat. This might work for the parties benefit or to their detriminet.
Let me know if you do not understand.
From: Josh
Subject New house rule
So they would get a +4 to init as well as a suprise round?
From: Mark
Subject New house rule
The get the surprise round. In the next round, what would be listed as round 1, they would get the +4.
From: Josh
Subject New house rule
Would that +4 last into the following rounds or only the first?
From: Mark
Subject New house rule
It would last the combat.
To me it reflects that the party that had surprise is more prepared for battle. They would be more likely to be the ones leading instead of responding.
It does not mean that people on the surprised side can not act quickly. I mean a person can still roll high, have a good dex and Improved init and go before someone who had done the surprising.
From: Kevin
Subject New house rule
I am sure it will be fine until the first time it goes against us. Then we will be howling like little babies at how unfair it is.
It is your world, lets try it and see how it works.
From: Kevin
Subject Barn fight
Harp says to Ran " Get Ragnar to help you get the wagon inside the building and close the doors. Surin, can you come help tie these guys up? Kal, can you keep a watch at the door and let us know if anyone is coming."
"OK, Salix, what do you want to do with them now that we got them?"
OOC: Karl was going to have occaisional access to e-mail. I will give him a chance to check in tonight. If he does not get a chance, then I will write something up for him tomorrow.
Mark, did Chris ask you about running Surin? Karl did not mention it and I do nto know if Chris was going to be travelling with Karl for this 2 week span.
From: Mark
Subject Barn fight
Chris is with Karl out west. If Karl gets a chance I am hoping that Chris will as well. I am going to do the same as you, give them both a chance to answer and then go on.
From: Jason
Subject Barn fight
Isn't the wagon already inside the building? If its not, Ragnar will bring it in. If it is, Ragnar will take a quick look at the unconscious guards and see if he can figure out how long they'll be unconscious. (Can he do that with a heal check, and if so, can he take 10? If so he'll do that.)
From: Mark
Subject Barn fight
The wagon was already in the barn and the doors had been closed. Ally had ordered Ran to do that before the bodies were to be unloaded.
Franz seems to be close to coming to. Hanz seems really dazed.
From: Kevin
Subject Barn fight
Sorry, I missed that part. Delete that part. Harp will still ask Kal to keep an eye on the door to make sure they don't get surprised.
If the question comes up, Harp will offer to do a cure minor wounds to try and wake up one of guards.
From: Kevin
Subject Barn fight
"Allistair, do you know what this Faldor character looks like from when you were reading Olt's mind? If not, you might want to ask these guys for a description. Also, see if you can get a an idea of where the Stormfather might be."
From: Porter
Subject New house rule
Personally, I think that getting an entire extra round is sufficient for those who get the surprise, but you're the DM. :)
From: Kevin
Subject New house rule
The surprise round is only 1 standard action. It usually allows you to move into position but rarely gets you a chance to attack in that round. It is more than possible (and I have seen it happen) where you set up an ambush, make your move action, and then when initiative is set, the other side gets such good rolls that they get the first attack. With this, if a character has decent dex, and improved initiative (what I still consider the most basic feat to take) and then this bonus when you have a surprise round, then that character will have no less than an 11 intiative count, and more likely a 20+. I know that in the real life games that Mark DM's for me, my characters are almost always ending up with initiatives over 15, and that was before he made this change. I always like getting the first shot in if possible.
Of course, if WE get surprised, this will hurt us just as much. But, so the dice rolls.
From: Porter
Subject Barn fight
Mund gets Franz in a sleeper hold before he wakes up.
To facilitate interrogation. :)
The next step, sleeper holds
Subject sleeper holds
OOC: Mark, how much longer will Allistairs spell keep his disguise going.
From: Mark
Subject Sleeper holds
Several more minutes. He cast it about 30 seconds out from the gate, was a couple of minutes from the gate to the barn and then the stuff in the barn.
I would say 2 to 2-1/2 minutes left.
From: Kevin
Subject Sleeper holds
Salix breathes a sigh of relief. They had made it onto the estate with no one the wiser. Hearing Harp have Kal cover the door, Salix gets out of the wagon and waves Allistair over to where the two guards are. "Allsitair, try to find out if they know where the Stormfather is being kept. They probably dont', but we have to ask. Also, see if you can get a description of this Faldor character from them - does he wear anything that stands out, any distinguishing features, you know?? Also, if they have any idea of what the plan of events are for the evening."
"Surin, take a quick look around. See if there is anything interesting in here, or anything we need to worry about"
"Mund, get ready to put your guy out if he does not cooperate. Harp, can you help bring him around?
Harp will use a 0 level to cast a cure minor wounds on Franz and then get a secure hold again on Hans, making sure to cover his mouth.
From: Porter
Subject Sleeper holds
OOC: I don't know how you want to do it with the rules, but somebody in a "sleeper" hold is utterly unable to talk when the hold is applied. If it were real, and if Mund had only my personal (i.e., Porter's) strength, dexterity, and skill (all of which are less than Mund's), Mund would be able to keep him from making a peep with the hold he has on him.
From: Derek
Subject Sleeper holds
Yeah... Porter's done it to me a few times. Using your vocal chords is pretty much out of the question. (Explanation: this was in an Aikido dojo where we were practicing grappling. Porter hasn't beat the crap out me out of spite since at least high school...)
From: Josh
Subject Sleeper holds
OOC: If we didn't have our armor on Kal will put his on now, along with whatever else belongs to him.
Kal heads over to the Barn Door, cracks it open and keeps an eye for anyone approaching.
From: Kevin
Subject The next step
While Allistair goes over to interrogate the guards, Salix looks at the rest of the group.
"Ok, lets get prepared. Get your armor on, weapons ready and any potions or other equipment you might need ready. Surin, lets look at those potions you got from the Mockers."
Salix will work on dividing the potions up.
OOC: We know we have 4 invisible, 5 CModW, and 3 Shield of Faith potions, in addition to what ever each person has. I am thinking that Surin should get 2 invisibles and a CModW, Salix will get 2 invisible and a CModW, Kal, Allistair and Ran each get a CModW. Ragnar and Harp can heal themselves. Mund has high HP and can rage until we get a healer close to him. Shield of Faith should go to.... the fighter types??? Mund at least, Ran, and maybe Kal??n Harp can cast his own SofF on himself if needed.
Mark, normally deflection bonuses do not stack. SofF is a +2 defection. If they have ROP, will you let the bonuses stack??
From: Porter
Subject Potions
Mund already has two CMW potions from before, so he should be OK.
From: Derek
Subject the next step
When Franz starts to come to, Allistair kneels next to him and talks quietly to him. "Franz, I'm going to ask you a few questions, and you will have a choice whether to answer them. If you cooperate and answer quickly and truthfully, we'll just gag you and tie you up until someone finds you. If you do not cooperate, we will simply kill you. I have neither the time nor inclination to be overly merciful to servants of Nerul. And the guy holding you? He'd just rather kill you anyway and be done with it. So if you and Hanz have any desire or intention to die live beyond the next 5 minutes, it would be in your best interest to be cooperative. Now, let's begin."
"When does the ceremony begin tonight?
How many will be at the temple?
How will they be armed?
Give me a detailed description of Faldor. Height, build, clothing, etc.
There are special prisoners being used in the ceremony tonight. Where are they being held?
What kind of security is there?"
If Franz is uncooperative, Allistair will simply nod to Mund, who will then tighten the choke hold. Mund will do it a few seconds longer each time until Franz cooperates or passes out.
OOC: Any other pertinent questions?
From: Mark
Subject The next step
No.
From: Kevin
Subject The next step
Ok, guys, then Allistair, Mund and Kal have no need for the potions - they all have a deflection bonus of +2.
That leaves Ran, Harp, Ragnar, Salix and Surin as possibly using them. Harp and Ragnar can probably take care of SoF on themselves (if they prayed for it). I think Ran, Salix and Suring would have better needs. I always question this type of decision. Do you make the slightly weaker guys the equal of the meat shields, or do you total beef up the meat shields and leave the other guys in their normal state. Since I am suggesting a course of action that does not benefit my character, I am open to suggestions to change that.
What's in the barn, plans and quiet
Subject Turn
I will try and get something out today. I am supposed to get a new computer at work today but I do not know when they are going to be in the office to install it. It is a cheapy $300 unit but still miles ahead of the 6/7 year old model I am using now. Old machine 56MB of ram, new machine 512MB of ram. etc. Windows 98 to XP, AMD K6 processor to I don't know what but it has to be better. Most of the drivers are from 1999. 2 USB 1.0 ports to 6 USB 2.0 ports. 2GB HD to a 40 GB HD.
From: Mark
Subject What's in the barn
As Harp, Ran and Mund subdue the two guards Salix gets up, issuing orders. "Kal, watch the doors, Ragnar and Surin, look around the barn. Make sure we're alone and see what you can find. Ally; see what you can find out from those two. Find out if they know where Acer is and what this Faldor character looks like. Harp and Mund, keep a tight grip on those two; no noise from them. Ran, help people get their gear on and ready. We've done well so far, let's see how long our luck will hold out." The others spring into action, glad to have something to do.
Mund shows Harp how to put a sleeper hold on Hanz. Mund then moves Franz over to a more secluded spot where Ally is sitting. Ally tosses some water from a bucket on Franz's face and the man sputters a bit before Mund starts to apply his hold. Allistair kneels next to him and talks quietly to him. "Franz, I'm going to ask you a few questions, and you will have a choice whether to answer them. If you cooperate and answer quickly and truthfully, we'll just gag you and tie you up until someone finds you. If you do not cooperate, we will simply kill you. I have neither the time nor inclination to be overly merciful to servants of Nerul. And the guy holding you? He'd just rather kill you anyway and be done with it. So if you and Hanz have any desire or intention to live beyond the next 5 minutes, it would be in your best interest to be cooperative. Now, let's begin."
Ally starts asking questions with his brother applying pressure when the mage signals. Several minutes later Ally nods and Mund chokes the man until he passes out. Surin is right there with some rope to tie him up. The barbarian then lugs him over to where Hanz is also trussed up on the ground. The two report to Salix.
"It seems" Ally starts "that there are actually two ceremonies tonight. The barbarians are involved with the first one. It starts an hour before mid night. The second ceremony starts several hours after midnight. It seems Acer is to be used in the second ceremony. The guy said that there are hundreds of guards but I think he was exaggerating. He did say that the guards almost never enter the temple, only Faldor and his acolytes go in there. There is a complex of rooms under the temple where most of the clerics live and work. The captives are kept there."
Surin pipes up at the mention of this. "We found a lift over in a room on the east side. It goes down a ways. Not sure what's down there, but I would guess some type of tunnel. Bet it goes to that complex." Ally nods "That would make sense. He said he has only seen Faldor once, from a distance. Says the guy is tall, bald and gaunt. He has lots of tattoos. He said most of the top side guards were equipped like he and Hanz, swords, leather, small shields, etc. Nothing too fancy. He has no idea about the temple people."
As Ally is talking the others are distributing the potions they got from the Mockers. Even Kal is keeping an ear on things. Surin shows the others the lift. It is a rope and pulley system that can handle 10 or so people at one time. Harp and Ragnar both look over the edge. "Goes down about 40 feet" Ragnar says. "There is some type of rail system at the bottom. I would have to get closer to tell anymore."
OODM: OK now what.
From: Derek
Subject Whats in the barn
"Is there anything we can do to help the tribes? You could say their greed and gullibility is their own undoing, but I can't help but think they are simply pawns that are being manipulated by Faldor. On the other hand, while everyone is busy at the first ceremony is the perfect time to rescue Acer..."
From: Porter
Subject What's in the barn
"Yeah, that's been bothering me too. We could go and rescue Acer and hope that that stops both ceremonies, but I dunno."
From: Kevin
Subject What's in the barn
OOC: Mark, was Ally able to determine if there is any type of pass the guards were wearing or if there is a password of any type?
If we forgot to ask abou it, our bad.
From: Kevin
Subject What's in the barn
OOC: Mark, what time is it now as compared to when the first ceremony is supposed to happen?
From: Mark
Subject What's in the barn
There did not seem to be a pass, but the guards are wearing a type of tabbard over their armor. It has a crest on it.
From: Mark
Subject What's in the barn
It is early evening, just past 6PM. It will be getting dark in an hour or so.
From: Derek
Subject What's in the barn
Allistair thinks out loud. "If I could just get close enough to fire one fireball into the middle of the ceremony, I can guarantee that it would put an abrupt stop to it. I could fire a fireball while hidden behind cover, and then hide in a rope trick for a couple of hours. Or I could even combine it with invisiblity and be completely hidden until I can hide inside a rope trick. If just Mund and I went, we could do that while the rest of you rescue Acer."
From: Kevin
Subject What's in the barn
Can't you cast the spell from the rope trick? I though the description allowed for that?
From: Kevin
Subject What's in the barn
Does anyone have any comments? Or do we just want to divide them as shown below.
From: Porter
Subject What's in the barn
"That's not a bad idea, but I'd sure like to give those clans a chance to stop this. I hate the idea of that bastard tricking the northern tribes."
"I still have half a mind to go talk to their chieftains. If we did that, and it turned ugly, could you magick us out of there?"
From: Derek
Subject What's in the barn
No spells can cross the window of the Rope Trick, even when it is open. However, Allistair does have improved invisiblity and a feat that allows him to hit the 'pause button' (as it were) while using regular invisibility, cast a spell or attack, and then resume the invisibility.
From: Derek
Subject What's in the barn
Allistair thinks for a moment. "I have enough magical strength to turn us both invisible, which would last about seven minutes - certainly enough time for us to get away and hide somewhere. If things get really bad one of us can fly away, but not both of us. I don't have the sufficient power for that right now, as I instead chose to be able to use two fireballs. "
From: Kevin
Subject plans
Salix listens to Mund and Allistair talk about saving the tribes. He understood their concern, but he had a more important purpose.
"The meeting with the clans is still a few hours away. If we can stop Faldor before then, the clans will come to no hurt. Lets take a look down this tunnel and see what we can find."
OOC: Mark, will anyone have noticed the sashes with the crests on them? Do we need to do a spot check or knowledge check or some such thing. I don't want to write anything up until I know that one of the characters might recognize them as some sort of badge/item that allows them to be recognized. I have an idea, but want to make sure we can use them first.
From: Mark
Subject Plans
They look like items worn by the guards at the gate. It looks to be a sort of livery.
It does not seem to have anything to do with Nerul.
From: Porter
Subject Plans
Mund nods his head. "Yes, that makes sense. I ain't givin' up the northerners to save your druid, at least not yet, but maybe we should spend this time finding out more."
From: Derek
Subject Plans
Allistair also agrees to follow Salix, since he had assumed from the beginning that this would be his decision and Salix's plan ultimately made more sense.
From: Mark
Subject Plans
Ok I need a run down of what is happening? Who is doing what? Where, when?
Etc
From: Kevin
Subject Plans
OOC: ok guys, what do you think? Surin and one other (maybe Kal since he can cast some basic spells and is probably the next most quiet of us) go down the lift to take a quick look at the bottom of the lift? Or we could put tabbards on Ran and Mund and send them down acting like guards. Problem is, the guards, if any, probably know the guards at the top. That assuming there are guards.
Suggestions on how to get to the bottom??
From: Mark
Subject Plans
Well there is a lift.
Also only Ragnar and Harp could see to the bottom easily. Kal, Salix and Ran can see somewhat further down the shaft where the lift is. the other three can not see much beyond the first 10 feet or so.
From: Porter
Subject Quiet
Point of order: Mund is the quietest in the group, besides the rogue.
From: Kevin
Subject Salix's mind
OOC: Just FYI, unless and until I hear from Karl to the contrary, I am going to be playing Salix as follows: he will have almost no concern for the northern barbarian tribes. His goal/task is to save Acer. Even if there was not the follow on issue of Acer knowing where the next gem was, Salix would still try to save Acer to the exclusion of all else. Acer trained him from when he was but a sappling, and Salix will do whatever is needed to save Acer and, hopefully, return the surrounding woodlands to normal. The fate of the tribes will be of VERY little interest to him.
This may be premature, but since I am not Karl, I thought I would give you guys a heads up.
Thanks
From: Porter
Subject Salix's mind
Well, that might cause some conflict. :)
From: Kevin
Subject Quiet
Mund has a Move Silent of 11, Kal is 12.
Kal can cast spells - MM, true stike, and can see better in low light.
From: Porter
Subject Quiet
Huh. I stand corrected.
From: Kevin
Subject Plans
Not a surprise.
Mark, I know that there is a lift. The question is do we try to "sneak" down the lift or send down a couple of guys that sort of look like the guys we just took out? I am trying to decide.
Did we see any torches or such in the building we are in?
From: Kevin
Subject Plans
So long as Kal does not get caught flat footed, he moves faster than a mongoose avoiding a snake. He can get his A/C to almost 30 if he tries.
However, my guess is the lift is goig to make noise. Might as well have fighters go down in case there is a someone down there.
I will wait to see what else others may suggest and then send more later this evening.
From: Mark
Subject Plans
Surprisingly there are no torches in the barn.
From: Josh
Subject Quiet
OOC: I'm at work, can't write up alot, but Kal's got a decent move silently ability. I think it's around 7.
From: Josh
Subject Quiet
Well i stand corrected, 12 it is. :)
From: Kevin
Subject plans
OOC: Mark, would Surin have mentioned that he cannot see very far down the shaft since it is dar?
If he does, Harp will go over and take a look down to see what he can see.
Does he see the glimmer of light at the bottom? Anything in particular that would worry him?
Too bad the two with darkvision are the two who would be noticed the most if there was someone down there.
From: Kevin
Subject Plans
Forget this previous question. I just reread the turn and realized that Mark had put information on what Harp could see at the bottom.
IC: Salix listens to Ragnars report of what he can see at the bottom on the shaft. "A rail system?? Like in a mine??" Salix's mind is confused. This whole journey had been one assault on his senses after another. Why couldn't they do something out in the forest, with trees and animals around? Why did they have to go down in this pit?? Because that was where the Stormfather was, and it was his job to rescue him. Salix was sure that they had gotten farther than the previous druids - Sephira was proof of that. Now the question was - what was the best way to approach this?
After a few seconds, Salix speaks. "Harp, you and Ragnar go down the lift first. Take a quick look around - see if there is anything unusual down there. If you encounter any resistance, defend youselves and get back on the lift. If it is clear, bang your sword on the lift three times, and then we will follow you down."
Plans, Into the dark, turn
Subject Turn
We still need to hear from Jason and Randy, even if it is just to check in please.
Thanks
From: Jason
Subject plans
Ragnar will be more than happy to head down first. He'll try to be quiet, for all the good that will do while wearing full plate.
From: Kevin
Subject Plans
Well, Harp ain't much better, but the lift is probably going to make some noise anyway. Salix is more concerned with it being dark down there, and both Harp and Rangar have darkvision, so they can scope out down there with out lighting up a torch.
IC: While Salix watches Harp and Ragnar prepare to head down the shaft, he says to the others "Ran, would you and Kal go get those baldrics off those two guards? They may come in usefull later on. Mund, get your torch ready to attach to your shield. Those two may be able to see without it, but the rest us us will need it sooner or later."
From: Mark
Subject Plans
What are you doing with Hanz and Franz?
So Harp and Ragnar are going to go down the lift?
Ok as soon as I have heard from Randy I will write something up.
From: Kevin
Subject Plans
We are going to leave them unconcious and well trussed up by Surin hidden as well as possible in the building we are in. Harp and Ragnar are going to go down the lift without torches to see what they can see at the bottom on the shaft. IF it looks clear, they will explore a very short way down the rail line, but will otherwise go back and rap on the lift that the way is clear (assuming it is). If there is more than 1 or 2 someones down there, they will knock once and wait to be hauled back up. If there are only a couple of guards, Harp and Ragnar will probably try to take them out.
From: Porter
Subject Climbing
OOC: How hard would it be for Mund to climb down there without using the lift?
From: Mark
Subject Climbing
Since it would be down an unknotted rope it would be a DC 15 climb check every 10 feet.
From: Kevin
Subject Climbing
What if Harp were to lower him down? Just tie a loop of some type for Mund to put an arm or foot thru and then Harp and/or one of the other character could help lower him down?
Of course, Porter, how you gonna see without gettin out your torch??
Maybe we could work out a way for Harp to get let down? This is when a Whisper Gnome would come in handy.
From: Porter
Subject Climbing
Mund looks down the shaft and says "If'n you wanna check it out first without using that noisy lift, I think I could climb down on my own and see what's there."
From: Kevin
Subject Climbing
Salix thinks for a minute. "Mund, thats a good idea, but lets still have Harp go first. We can tie the rope off up here and he can just slide down the rope. He can see without a torch and can give a quick scouting of the bottom when he gets there."
OOC: Mark, is this a skill we can take a 10 on? I do not know how Rangar will fee about being let down wearing his armor - the rest of the group would probably have to lower him down.
Would the DC still be a 15 since we are going down the rope, not climbing up? It is substantially easier to go down than up.
From: Mark
Subject Climbing
It is all still part of the same skill. You can not really use gauntlets while going down and unless you want to rope burn your hands you need the climb skill.
Stop trying to get out of simple skill checks.
From: Randy
Subject Climbing
Ran will go along with the plan of checking out the tunnel. He is concerned about abandoning Mund's people to the fate that Faldor has planned for them but until they have more information, he doesn't speak up about it.
From: Mark
Subject Plans
Ok everyone has checked in I'll try and get a turn out this afternoon.
From: Mark
Subject Into the dark
Surin, Ran and Mund make quick work of Hanz and Franz. The two guards are trussed up, gagged and deposited under a stack of hay. Harp and Ragnar ready their swords and move over to where the lift is. Ally takes a second to inspect the lift mechanism and then points to a large wheel. "Turn this way" he says and grabs the wheel and starts to turn. The mechanism makes several loud squeaks as the rope pulleys strain. Salix and Kal give the mage a hand and the two can see a platform with some railings slowly moving up from the dark pit.
A minute later a wooden platform large enough for maybe a dozen unarmored, normal sized people stops at the top of the opening. Harp and Ragnar open the gate and step onto the platform. It sways a bit from their weight and Harp takes a quick step to keep his balance. Ragnar's short, stubby legs keep him well balanced. Salix nods and Ally flips a lever. The three start turning the wheel again, this time lowering the platform back into the darkness.
Slowly the two descend into the shaft. The darkness starts to surround them. The colors first dim and then fade out until only black and white remain. The top of the shaft is small above them, a faded pin point of dim light. Harp can hear Ragnar mumbling to himself "10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40." When the dwarf hits 40, the lift jerks to a stop. The two fighters look out down the tunnel in front of them. For 60 feet down the tunnel they see nothing but two metal rails, about three feet apart. The tunnel itself is about 15 feet wide. Ragnar opens the gate and steps out onto the floor. It is dirt, not stone. There are support beams every five feet or so with large sections of wood between the beams that seem to be used to support the ceiling.
They spend the next few minutes exploring the first thirty feet of the tunnel. They find nothing out of the ordinary. Ragnar is not impressed by the construction but he does not know how he would do better. Something about it just offends his dwarven sensibilities. The floor is well worn but the walls, the railing and the lift all seem to be reasonably new, no more than 3 years old. The air is a bit damp and chilly.
OODM: What now?
From: Jason
Subject Into the dark
Ragnar says to Harp, quietly, "I think we should investigate a couple hundred feet out, and then see if Salix wants us to keep going or not."
OOC: Can we tell which way the tunnel is headed, both in direction and especially if it might be leading toward the temple?
From: Mark
Subject Into the dark
It heads west. On the map I had sent out a while back that is to the left of the map.
From: Kevin
Subject Into the dark
"Lets not get too far ahead. We'll go down a hundred feet or so. If it is clear, I'll wait here while you go back and get the others."
From: Jason
Subject Into the dark
Well that is the way we want to go. We need to head northwest. The squares don't really show up very well, but it looks like we need to head about 750' west and about 900' north. Of course, its just a sketch so I don't expect that to be completely accurate, but is that about right?
From: Jason
Subject Into the dark
Ragnar agrees to that.
From: Mark
Subject Into the dark
The two move down the tunnel slowly, trying their best to be silent. After 100 feet or so they see no change ahead of them. The rails continue heading in a straight line west.
From: Mark
Subject Into the dark
Basically yes.
From: Kevin
Subject Into the dark
When they get about 100' feet from the shaft, Harp holds up his hand. He motions to Ragnar that he will stay where he is and that Ragnar should head back and get the others. He watches as the dwarf heads back.
While Harp waits, he settles down to see what if anything he can hear. He wishes he were as quiet as Surin, but he is not willing to go on without his armor. If only Surin could see in the dark the way Harp and Ragnar could - he would be a hell of a scout then.
He waits silently for the others to come down the tunnel.
From: Jason
Subject Into the dark
Ragnar will head back to the lift and tug on the rope to be let back up. Once above, he'll say "The tunnel goes a ways to the west. If it eventually turns north, it should head to the temple. We got about 100 feet down and didn't see anyone, but that's as far as we went. I think we should give it a try; if we can rescue Acer before the ceremony even starts, that's far better than attempting to interrupt it."
From: Kevin
Subject Listen
OOC: Mark, on listen checks, it is -2 for every 10 ft away from the noise source, correct? So at the limit of Harp's vision any creature would have a -12 to its listen check? Granted, Harp still have to do his move silent checks, but the opposed check woud take a -12, right????
From: Mark
Subject Listen
Yes under most circumstances.
They would also usualy need to have a reason to make a listen or spot check. If they have no reason they take a -10 for being distracted. That is the modifier that usually affects everyone one unless they say they are listening.
From: Kevin
Subject Listen
Thanks, great.
From: Mark
Subject Turn
Are you guys waiting on me?
From: Jason
Subject turn
I'm either waiting on you to say we all go down, or on everyone else to say we go down in the tunnel. But I'm definitely waiting for something :)
From: Mark
Subject Turn
Well then lets have everyone check in since I want to make sure all the players have done what they want before I go on. Things are going to get fun soon. :evil grin:
From: Porter
Subject Turn
Mund's ready to go down, and has his torch attached to his shield, currently with a hood over it.
From: Josh
Subject Turn
Kal's ready.
From: Derek
Subject Turn
Do we want to ask Hanz and Franz where the tunnel goes, and what creatures await us at the end? If not, then Allistair will go down with the rest.
From: Kevin
Subject Turn
You can try real quick.
Salix will be ok with going down the shaft and heading down to where Harp is.
From: Mark
Subject Turn
I thought I had made it clear. The guards on the property do not go to the temple. Hanz and Franz load bodies on to the lift and lower them down. Someone or something unloads the bodies at the bottom of the lift.
From: Derek
Subject Turn
OK, then we'll leave them where they are.
The party goes down
Subject Turn
I got dumped on this morning so it will likely be tonight before I can get a turn out.
From: Randy
Subject Turn
Ran is ready to go into the tunnel.
From: Kevin
Subject Turn
Mark, I just want to make sure that we DID take the sashes (or whatever they were) that Hanz and Franz were wearing. We just have them stored in case we need them at some time.
From: Mark
Subject The party goes down
As Harp waits in the dark Ragnar moves back to the lift and signals for the others to descend. He waits as the lift slowly start to be pulled up to the top of the shaft. In the lingering darkness he can hear the others move onto the platform and then hear the platform start to descend.
The remaining companions move on to the lift while Mund stays off "I'll let you guys down and climb down after you. I can climb like one of those monkey things. Here Ally, take my shield, when it gets dark enough take off the bag so the light will work." The others nod and Mund starts working the wheel. The lift starts on its way down. As the party descends into the darkness, Ally pulls off the cover of the torch. The light spills out from the torch and lights up the shaft. A minute later the lift bangs to a halt and the people on the lift see Ragnar waiting for them. A little later they hear Mund climbing down the ropes of the lift and soon the barbarian takes his shield back from his brother. "Ok guys, lets head out."
Harp, Ran and Mund take the front while Ragnar, Surin and Kal bring up the rear. Salix and Ally stay in the middle. They are spread over about 25 feet of the tunnel. Mund holds his shield up so that every one can see where they are going. They follow the rails to the west, moving slowly and trying to keep as quiet as they can. The tunnel runs west for about 550 feet before Ragnar notices a slight change. "The tunnel is starting to curve north. That's good." A few hundred feet later the dwarf reports "Now we are heading north. I guess, if the map was reasonably accurate that we should be headed for the temple now.
The party continues on for what seems forever. Only Ragnar is truly comfortable in the enclosed, dark space. The light of the torch helps but the darkness all around still presses in on all of them, Salix the most. A couple of hundred feet after Ragnar says that they are heading north there is a change in the wall around them. The party stops and looks closer at the walls. They have become stone instead of dirt. Ragnar takes a closer look "This section is a good bit older than what we just went through. Hmm, I wonder why." A hundred feet further on the answer shows itself. Every 15 feet or so, on alternating sides of the passageway, there are doors.
OODM: How do you want to handle the doors.
From: Derek
Subject The party goes down
Allistair whispers, "These could be holding cells. Maybe we should check them out."
Do these doors have barred windows or small hatches at the bottom like you would expect from a cell door?
From: Porter
Subject The party goes down
As they travel on an on in the tunnel, Mund murmers "It's like that ruttin' dungeon we were stuck in, 'cept worse, 'cuz we can't even see good."
From: Kevin
Subject The party goes down
Harp responds to Allistairs suggestion "Good idea, but before we do, let me look a little farther down the tunnel. We don't want to run into something in one of these rooms and then have a bunch of people come running at us from down that way. Wait here while I go take a look. Mund, can you turn that torch the other way so its not quite as visible?"
With that, Harp will head down the hallway, moving at about 1/2 speed.
OOC: Mark, if Harp sees any signs of activity (the glow of a torch, anythinge else that might get his attention) he will stop and take a listen. If he gets more than 100-150 feet, he will stop and come back to the group to let them know how much clear space they have.
From: Porter
Subject The party goes down
Mund stays where he is and puts the hood back over his torch. He will be ready to throw it back off instantly if needed. (readied action)
From: Josh
Subject The party goes down
Wouldn't it be a better idea if we put the quiet guys up front?
From: Jason
Subject The party goes down
Ragnar keeps an eye out behind us as we travel. When we stop outside the doors, he'll retreat to be 15' behind, lean against one of the walls opposite the door they're looking at, and keep an eye behind them as well as watch what's happening at the door.
From: Kevin
Subject The party goes down
OOC: Normally Josh, I would say yes, but in this case, being able to see in the dark is more important. Harp can see 60' ft in the dark. Listen check at that range are at a -12, and that assumes that the person is TRYING to hear something. If they are just standing around, they would take another -10. If we had Kal or Surin go down the tunnel, they would need the torch and if there was someone else keeping an eye out, they would see the torch before Kal or Surin could see them. This way, if Harp makes is down 150' ft, and he can see another 60", they know they have 200' of clear space. If they make noise, there is a -40 to hear them. So, if they open a door and something attacks them (an undead of some type for example) the chance of being heard is pretty small.
Now, if one of our sneeky guys had darkvision or goggles of darkvision, that would be a different story.
Turn, in the tunnel, fireballs
Subject Turn
Ok I got the new computer at work today. I have a couple of large projects to do and I am learning the layout of the new system. It might be this afternoon when I get a turn out. If not then, tonight.
From: Kevin
Subject Turn
BTW, since I am still playing Salix, Salix will agree to let Harp look a little farther down the tunnel before they start checking the doors.
From: Derek
Subject Turn
Got to learn all this new-fangled Windows XP stuff? You know that new operating systems are unstable, right? You probably want to wait 6 months or so for all the bugs to be worked out before you upgrade to XP. ;)
From: Mark
Subject In the tunnel
No. They are wooden doors with iron bands, maybe 6-7 feet across, no windows or small hatches.
From: Derek
Subject In the tunnel
While we're waiting for Harp, Allistair will quietly ask Salix if it's OK to have his familiar check out one of the doors. Assuming Salix agrees, Allistair will have Sysyphys slither up to one of the doors and take a sniff there. If there's no dangerous smells, then he will have Sysyphys slither in and see what's behind one of the doors.
OOC: You want a quiet scout? We have a quiet scout...
From: Kevin
Subject In the tunnel
Agreed, and you wrote exactly what I was hoping you would write.
From: Mark
Subject In th tunnel
At the site of the door Salix holds up his hand for the party to stop. Harp turns "Let me go a bit ahead to make sure no one is coming our way. Mund, can you dim the light a bit?" Mund throws the hood over the torch and the tunnel is plunged into almost total darkness. The half elves can see a bit from the tiny bit of light seeping from under the hood. Only Ragnar and Harp are not affected by the lack of light. The dwarf takes up position a few feet back, watching out behind them. Harp starts to move slowly down the tunnel. As Harp goes off to look around Ally turns to Salix "How about I have Sysyphys go investigate the door? See what he can find out?" Salix nods but when he does not hear anything happen he realizes that Ally is almost blind in the dim light. "Go ahead."
The mage whispers to the snake and the little creature slithers down his arm and onto the floor. It spends several seconds tasting the surrounding area before moving on to the door. Once at the door its tongue spends a while taking in the scents and odors around the opening. It then slithers underneath the jam and disappears. While the party is waiting Harp returns. Whispering "I went down over 100 feet and did not see anything other than more doors, following the same pattern, 15 feet apart, alternating side, 30 feet between doors on the same side." About that time the snake's head appears under the door and Sysyphys shows back up. The snake climbs up Ally's arm and the two spend a few minutes hissing at each other.
OODM: I will let Derek know what the snake found.
From: Derek
Subject In the tunnel
Allistair motions the others closer so that they can speak quietly. "Sysyphys tasted old death mixed with strange spices. Also stale, damp air. The room is about 15 feet deep and wide, and there are holes in the walls. The taste is similar to what he tasted in the alcoves where those blood hulks were near Sephrenia's cell. However the smell here is much older."
Allistair pauses for a second and adds his own comment. "If all these rooms are the same, we really don't want those doors to come open."
OOC: If Ally used a fireball down here in the tunnel, would there be a significant chance of causing a cave-in? Probably not in the stone part, but what about the mine-like portion?
From: Derek
Subject In the tunnel
OOC: Ignore what Ally just said. I misinterpreted what Mark told me. Retcon:
IC: "Sysyphys says the room smells like old death, mixed with spices. The room is about 15 feet square, with alcoves in it. My guess is it contains catacombs with embalmed bodies."
From: Mark
Subject In the tunnel
There would not be an immediate chance but there would be other side effects, such as loss of oxygen, volume for the flames, etc.
From: Porter
Subject In the tunnel
"That don't help us none. Let's get a move on."
From: Derek
Subject Fireballs
What about if Ally detonated a fireball in the tunnel? Is collapsing a possibility? If the wooden supports were seriously burned by the fireball, I think a collapse would certainly happen, but that doesn't mean the rules reflect that...
From Derek
Subject Tunnel
OOC: Is it an evil act to desecrate a tomb in an evil temple? Or is it a good act? (shrug)
From: Kevin
Subject Tunnel
"I agree" Harp says. "Lets leave lying bodies lie. If these things are some type of undead, lets not tempt fate by rousing them. Much as I would love to send them to their rightful rest, there are many doors and the could overwhelm us."
OOC: Mark, how far away is the torch noticable? At what distance down the tunnel can it be seen? I know that we can only use it for a short distance, but someone else can see it from approximately how far away? Would we know that??
Harp wants to suggest that they continue forward with Munds torch slightly covered so as to give light immediately around them but not shine too far ahead. That way Harp could continue to scout ahead in the darkness and the others could have enough light to see to walk.
From: Derek
Subject Tunnel
Allistair has a suggestion. "Since I am capable of some degree of telepathic communication with Sysyphys, I could have him go in front of us. Due to his small size and silence he will be virtually undetected, and he could warn us of people or creatures before they can detect us."
From: POrter
Subject Tunnel
"That could take all day, and the tribes could be dead by the time we made it to the temple. It's time for us to get a move on."
From: Kevin
Subject Tunnel
Salix looks at Mund "It won't take us any longer than it has taken us so far. I think that is a great idea. He would be able to tell when we get to somewhere that has light and stop well short of there, giving us time to prepare. Remember, our main mission is to rescue the Stormfather. If we can do that, we will probably mess up Faldor's plans for the tribes. But, gettting caught down here in this tunnel won't help anybody."
OOC: how fast can the little viper move if he is taking a double move action each turn?
Approx. how long have we been down in the tunnel?
If I remember correctly, the sun was just setting. Mark, would that make is about 6 pm in our understanding of time? We had about 5 hours till the first ceremony from when we made it onto the estate, right??
From: Porter
Subject Tunnel
"It won't take us any longer than it has taken us so far."
Mund replies "And I'm saying that's too long. Every minute we pussyfoot down here is a minute closer to slaughter up there. I know you like your druid buddies, but you don't want to make me choose between one druid and three northern tribes."
From: Randy
Subject Tunnel
"I agree with our barbarian friend here. We are running out of time. We have no guarantee that we will easily find Acer at the end of these tunnels and I think we need to make haste. I know that you prefer to plan everything out and take all possible cautions to give us an advatage but I don't believe we have time for that luxury. For all we know,"
Ranthir looks at Salix hoping to drive his point home,
"They could have plans to prepare Acer for the ceremony hours before the thing actually happens. We need to hurry for his sake as well as for the barbarians whose lives may be forfeit by a betrayal they have no way of knowing about."
From: Josh
Subject Tunnel
Kal speaks up,
"It seems to me that the Barbarians can make their own fate. If they go along with what Faldor is planning, they'll get what they deserve. That said, let's move as quick as we can without taking un-necessary risk. It wouldn't hurt to save the Barbarians from their well-deserved fate."
From: Porter
Subject Tunnel
"That's the dumbest thing I've heard you say all day, [i]elf[/i]. They can't go along with what Faldor is planning, 'cuz they don't know what he's planning."
From: Kevin
Subject Tunnel
Salix considers the comments of the party, especially those of Ran. He had never seemed overly impetuous, and Salix counted him as a friend and reliable voice. Maybe he was being too cautious.
"All right, we will move on. Harp you take the lead well ahead of us and and stop when you begin to see signs that there might be people about. The rest of us will follow after a couple of minutes, agreed??".
From: Kevin
Subject Tunnel
"Mund, that's enough. We are going to move on. Stop trying to stir up trouble where it does not need to be stirred up."
OOC: I am going to be signing off for a while. Pizza and spending time with the family.
From: Kevin
Subject Tunnel
Harp says to the group "Give me a 1/2 a minute or so to get ahead of you. If I see a light, I'll come back and let you know. I will not worry as much about being quiet, I'll just keep an eye out for a light in the distance"
Salix says to Mund "Mund, I cannot guarantee that what we do here will save the tribes. If your are intent on saving the tribes, then you should go back to the lift and find a way to get out there on your own. I don't want to split us up, but my goal is to save the StormFather, and that is it. If that means that we don't get to save the tribes, so be it. They were not my concerns a day ago, and they are not my concern now. Only the StormFather, and through him the gem, are my concern now. So, if you are going to leave, go now. I can provide light for those who stay."
From: Porter
Subject Tunnel
Mund gives Salix a narrow look. "A day ago, we didn't know that the tribes were all going to be murdered. That's no concern for you? You're not the man I thought you were. Or elf, I guess. Just out to protect your own kind, and let the rest of the world go hang, eh? I should have known."
OOC: Remind me again -- what's the connection between the Stormfather and the gem?
Oh, and now that we're moving, Mund will continue to go along, despite what he just said. Not that I mind writing up more arguments, but I don't want to hold up the action either. I wanna know what happens next!