Holding the door, moving on, the chamber
Subject: What Surin saw
"Let's close this big door first. Who knows what creature made these claw marks on the door?"
From: Kevin
Subject: What Surin saw
Mark, with Harp's darkvision, can he see any farther with the little bit of light they have? He should be able to see at least 60' from where he is, torch light or no, correct?
The power supply on by highspeed modem/router/wireless gateway went bad this past Friday. I have ordered a new power supply but it will not be here until Wednesday. I will be checking e-mails during the normal working day from my work computer (as normal) but will be totally unable to check e-mails at night through at least Wednesday. If any one wants Harp to do something, you better ask it during the 7-5 work day.
From: Mark
Subject: What Surin saw
Power supply? Likely excuse.
I did give Harp a 60 foot sight with his dark vision. I said that the hallway opened into a room but htat he can not see anything else in the room. Harp and Mund are only about 10 feet inside the door.
From: Kevin
Subject: What Surin saw
It was tested with a voltmeter and where it should be putting out 5.1 volts, it was putting out 1.1 volts. I just hope it did not kill the modem/router/wireless gateway at the same time.
Unless he hears or is asked to do something to the contrary, Harp will continue to advance into the room, pausing at the end of the 30 ft hallway to try and get a better look around.
From: Kevin
Subject: What Surin saw
Mark, I forgot to put in that Harp took the key ring. He did not take the money or the ring.
From: Porter
Subject: What Surin saw
In that case, Mund takes the money and the ring.
From: Karl
Subject: What Surin saw
"No!" Salix says firmly. "We cannot just rush in. We don't know how many more there might be, or who else might be on their way. " He turns to the doorway Harp and Mund have entered. "Harp! Come back out here and hold this other door! I'll go with Mund."
Salix will go with Mund since he is the only one likely to recognize the Stormfather, if he is in this room. Or even more importantly, he's the only one the stormfather is likely to recognize if he is wildshaped.
(OOC - is there any obvious way to lock the door heading towards the other guards?)
From: Porter
Subject: Acer
I'm trying to remember -- where and when has Mund met the Stormfather?
From: Kevin
Subject: Acer
I think Karl means that Salix is the only one to have met the Stormfather. If Salix takes Harp's place, he would be able to identify Acer where as Harp might not.
From: Mark
Subject: Acer
Karl meant that Salix is the only one who knows what Acer looks like. I think he wants Harp to guard the southern door in case the four guys in armor show up.
From: Mark
Subject: What Surin saw
No there is no obvious way to lock the door. There was no lock on it and it opened out into the hallway.
From: Karl
Subject: Acer
The antecedent to "he" in my sentence is Salix, not Mund.
From: Kevin
Subject: Holding the door
Is there some type of handle that Harp can grab onto?
From: Mark
Subject: Holding the door
There is a latching mechanism but it is not very large.
From: Kevin
Subject: Holding the door
Harp hears Salix call from the doorway. Damn, he wanted to help find the Stormfather if he was in there, but if Salix was calling him back, there must be a reason. Harp hurries back to the main room and listens to what Surin and Salix have to say. Hearing that there are armed men coming their way, Harp says to Salix "Hurry up and go see if the Stormfather is in that damn place. I don't know how long I'll be able to hold the door" Ragnar, give me a hand with this, would you?" Harp then goes over to where the door is and prepares himself. As he looks at the door, he says to Salix before he leaves the room "There's not much to hold onto here, and they can beat the door down if needed. Is there anything else we can do to slow them down or distract them."
From: Porter
Subject: Moving on
Mund makes sure his torch is secure on his shield and then nods to the Druid. "Let's go see what we can find."
From: Karl
Subject: Holding the door
Right now, just be quiet. They may not even be coming for us."
(OOC - we *don't* know if they are coming for us, right? We just know there were 4 guys getting suited up. They could have been preparing for some part of the ceremony, right?)
From: Karl
Subject: Moving on
Let's hurry. There could be trouble back in the room soon."
From: Porter
Subject: Moving on
Mund starts forward in the lead with Salix coming behind him.
From: Kevin
Subject: Holding the door
OOC: The group that heard from Surin got the idea, I think, that these guys were getting ready in response to something and our fight was the most recent thing.
The other option is to try and lure them into the room, but then we have 4 full armored guys who know we are there.
Mark, was my earlier write up about the door not having a good place to hold onto accurate?
From: Josh
Subject: Holding the door
Kal shakes his head when Salix holds the party back, but stands waiting.
From: Mark
Subject: Holding the door
Yes. There is a place to grab on to, but you would have to either drop your shield or your sword to use it. And holding a door closed when someone is pulling on it is harder than holding a door closed when someone is pushing on it.
From: Mark
Subject: Turn
Ok I will write up the turn tonight. It will likely be after 10PM since the season finale of 24 is on tonight.
From: Kevin
Subject: Holding the door
Harp has a buckler strapped to his arm, so it would not be in the way if he is using his hands to hold the door closed. He could sheath his sword and have both hands free, right??
From: Mark
Subject: Holding the door
I forgot about bucklers. Yes, he can use one hand and keep the buckler on. If he uses both hands then he has to put the sword away.
From: Mark
Subject: The chamber
Just as Harp and Mund are about to move down the hallway, Surin reports back. At hearing about the 4 men Kal wants to attack immediatly. Salix, however, is more cautious. "We don't know if that is all of them or even if they know we are here. The Stormfather is the mission. Harp, get back here and watch the southern door. I'll go with Mund. I'm the only one who knows what he looks like and I'm the only one he might recognize as well. If he has been able to wildshape, he might kill you before he knew you were here to rescue him."
Harp is not happy about being pulled from the front line, but accedes to Salix's orders. When he gets to the southern door he looks for ways to slow the progress of intruders. "Kal, can you stand back a bit. Ran, can you go help Salix and Mund? Ragnar and I will be the front line here. You use your magic if there are any casters amongst them." Kal nods, still not happy with Salix's decision. The dwarf moves over next to Harp. "Harp, give me a hand with these so there is room for me" Ragnar says indicating the bunk beds. Harp nods and the two quickly push a couple of the beds out of the way. They then take up position in front of the door.
With Mund beside him and Ranthir brining up the rear, the three move down the hall. Mund can see much in his torch light but Salix and Ranthir see more in the dim light than the human. 60 feet in from the door the hallway opens in to a large room. As they approach the two ½ elves can make out some features of the room. Along the north wall are two large tables. These tables each have a large wheel and pulley mechanism on them, easily recognizable as a rack torture device. Even more horrifying are the two desiccated bodies still attached to the machines. Unmoving, their grey, pallid skin reflects the death that has claimed them. A rictus of pain fills their faces. On the west wall hangs another body from a set of manacles.
Along the rest of the walls are tools of torture and pain. Saws, knives, pulling instruments. Tools which make the three wince in pain just to imagine how they might be used. An iron maiden sits in one corner, its metal spikes gleaming dully in the pale light. A large iron door is in the southern wall.
OODM: What do the three want to do?
From: Kevin
Subject: Holding the door
He is going to sheath his sword.
IC: When he gets Rangar's attention, he says "Brother, time to work together. Give me a hand putting this timber across the bottom of this doorway and then get ready to help me against these guys".
OOC: Mark, Harp wants to put the timber across the bottom of the doorway, extending on either side. It will give him someplace to place his feet as he grips at the door and exerts himself to keep it from opening.
If only we had a good way of attaching the beam to the door. Oh well.
From: Mark
Subject: Holding the door
Ok since this will not make a major change, assume that Harp and Ragnar have done this.
From: Poter
Subject: The chamber
OOC: I didn't realize that Ranthir was coming with Mund and Salix. Let me retcon a little bit.
IC:
Before they head down the hall, Mund gets right in front of Ranthir and says quietly but with intensity "Do not run out ahead on your own." Mund then turns around and heads down the hall.
From: Mark
Subject: The chamber
Well I added that but made sense. Randy is gone for the week and I would be surprised if you guys kept three fighter types and the cleric at the door while only two went in to investigate. There is not really enough room for him around the door either.
From: Karl
Subject: The chamber
"Let's check that door. It looks like a holding cell." Salix will move toward the door, being careful to look for traps or any other threat in the room as best he can without taking too much time with it.
From: Porter
Subject: The chamber
No worries, as long as you don't mind me retconning. :)
From: Kevin
Subject: Holding the door
While Harp is getting ready in case the guards come around the corner. a thought pops into his mind. "Surin, you think you could rig that pit trap back where we came into this area to be triggered by pulling a rope from the other side? If we have to make a quick exit and we got people following us, that hole in the floor would sure put a slow down on them. Go check it out real quick."
OOC: Mark, the trip mechanism/trigger was not closely described, but I am looking to see if Surin can rig it so that we can run over it going out but then trip it by pulling a piece of rope from the other side, or maybe turing the trigger back on.
From: Bryan
Subject: Holding the door
OOC: Good idea. I was thinking of moving behind one of the beds nearer the door in an attempt to get behind them, but that should work much better. Can we get a better description of trap, too?
IC: Surin will attempt to re-enable the trap in such a manner as to allow it to be remotely triggered via a rope or similar device.
From: Derek
Subject: Holding the door
Allistair isn't so sure. "That might be a good idea if we were back in the room with the guards. Right now though, if we fell back to behind the pit then Salix, Mund, and Ran would be cut off. We should concentrate on holding this room until they return."
"Surin, if those 4 guys come in and it becomes a battle, I want to cast invisibility on you. I have an improved invisibility that will allow to attack without the illusion being shattered. Also, do you want to use that dagger that we got from the priest we killed? I have a hunch that it may be very effective, but without knowing what magic it has that may be a little risky."
Chamber surprise
Subject: Holding the door
Harp hears Allistairs concerns. "Oh, I wasn't planning on leaving anyone, 'cept maybe your brother if no one noticed. I was more worried that we may be carrying Acer and might be in a rush and that it is a really long tunnel back to the lift to the surface. Until I know we have Acer, I'm not leaving this place."
From: Mark
Subject: Turn
Ok here's what I see. Salix is inspecting the door in the torture chamber while Mund and Ran guard his back. Harp, Ragnar and Kal are guarding the door in the south wall in the guard room. Surin is going to go back to the pit room and see if he can rig the pit. Ally is staying in the middle of the guard room. If that does not sound right you have about two hours to let me know.
I will be working on a turn in about 1/2 an hour and hope to have it out by noon.
From: Kevin
Subject: Turn
OOC: I think the only question is on Bryan. Does he want Surin to check the pit trap or stay and let Ally turn him invisible. He could try and do both - run and check the pit trap and them come back, hoping that the guards have not killed everyone by then.
Bryan, welcome to the club. What's the little guy to do?
Mark, would it seem normal for Harp to have given the key ring to Salix when they traded places?? Harp took it from the guard and had it with him. He would have given it to Salix when Harp left that room.
From: Mark
Subject: Turn
You did not say it so Harp still has the keys. He has not even realized this.
From: Kevin
Subject: The chamber
I am saying it before you get the turn written up.
Harp, realizing that he still has the key ring from the guard, gets Allistairs attention. "I forgot to give this to Salix. Would you run it over to him? He might need it more than I will shortly."
From: Mark
Subject: Chamber surprise
As Harp and Ragnar prepare for the defense of the door Harp talks over his shoulder to Surin. "Hey, Surin, is there any way you can rig that pit thing so that we can use it to protect ourselves on the way out? I don't know, some way so that we can rig it to open when we want, say after we have rushed out and have a bunch of angry guys in plate armor after us?" "I could go take a look but it might take a while to rig something up" Surin replies. Harp remembers something at that moment. "Ally, here " he says, tossing a key ring with about a dozen keys on it to the mage "I found these keys hanging on the wall when we searched the room. Salix could probably use them more than I can right now." The mage nods and moves to the large door leading into the torture chamber. As he moves he hears an awful sound.
Salix and Mund and Ran move cautiously into the room. Salix leads the three to the door on the south wall. Ran tries to keep his eyes off of the implements on the wall. They gleam with an almost unnatural brightness in the glow of Mund's torch. When they get to the door the two fighters take up positions ahead of and on either side of the druid. Salix tries the door but finds that it is locked. He remembers that Harp had taken a key ring and curses to himself. Both Mund and Ran are taken by surprise (Spot check, Mund had best at 19+1=20, versus Hide check of 15+12=27, fail) when the two figures on the tables leap to their feet and move towards the party, the figure hanging on the wall frees itself from its chains and a fourth figure climbs from under one of the tables. Salix hears Mund gasp "The dead guys are attacking!"
In the dark hallway Ally hears an odd, disconcerting noise from the room ahead. He can see a feint flicker of Mund's torch.
OODM: Surprise round is over. All the creatures did was move. Init for Round 1.
B1, B2, B3, B4, Salix, Ranthir, Mund
Once those three have let the others know there might be a problem, I will roll for the Init of any one who comes to help.
From: Kevin
Subject: Holding the door
Harp will stay where he is, waiting to hear if the guards come down the hallway.
From: Porter
Subject: Chamber surprise
Mund feels the hot blood of battle in his arms and bellows out "Back to the hallway, guys! We can't let them surround us!"
If his companions do what he said, Mund will do a retreat (whatever it's called where the baddies don't get an AOO) back to the hall as far as his companions have gone. If not, he'll attack B2.
From: Mark
Subject: Chamber surprise
I assume this means he is raging?
From: Karl
Subject: chamber surprise
"Good idea," Salix says. Before retreating he will cast SNA2 to summon a hippogriff at G8 (or G7 if B4 moves into G8) to attack B3. Then, he will move as far as he can toward the exit. (It looks like unless B2 or B3 moves, he has a clear shot along the south wall.) However, he will not leave casting distance until he knows no one is surrounded and trapped.
From: Bryan
Subject: Holding the door
Sorry about the late response time.
Checking the pit trap seems the way to go. As I mentioned before - moving some of the crap in the room to keep the door closed (and the bad guys out) might be a smart move. Surin is a little small to be doing that though :)
I'll check the trap, and if it looks doable I'll set it up for a remote (rope?) trigger. I'll then hurry back. Remember: Don't die.
From: Mark
Subject: Holding the door
There is no way to move anything in the room to keep the door on the south wall of the guard room closed since the door opens out. Stuff might be used to block the way in.
From: Kevin
Subject: Holding the door
The problem is the door Harp is at opens aways from the room and into the hallway, the exact opposite of what you would like it to do in this case. You will find in my brothers world that whenever you have a door, it will open in the direction that is least beneficial to the party.
From: Kevin
Subject: Holding the door
Of course, that blocks Harp from trying to hold the door closed as well. We shall see what we shall see.
From: Bryan
Subject: Holding the door
Of course. Wouldn't want to make too life easy, would we? :)
From: Bryan
Subject: Holding the door
Looking at the map, we could probably move one of the beds in front of the door. Plate armor doesn't exactly make for a dexterous enemy. At worst it would do nothing, at best the poor footing would probably act as a significant combat modifier.
From: Porter
Subject: Chamber surprise
Yup.
From: Kevin
Subject: Holding the door
That has possibilities as well. Harp may have Ragnar get ready to do that, since Ragnar does have a 16 strength.
From: Karl
Subject: Chamber surprise
I forgot to add that Salix will sacrifice one of the Flame Spheres in order to cast SNA2.
From: Kevin
Subject: Holding the door
OOC: I am out for the night. Internet at home is still out so I will be adding nothing more till tomorrow morning. Please keep your cheers to yourselves.
Turn, round 1, round 2 actions
Subject: Round 1 actions
OOC: Mark, on the map of the chamber, there are 4 creatures markd B1-B4. There is also a marking of IM at location C5. What does that stand for? Implement of Death?
From: Mark
Subject: Round 1 actions
Iron Maiden. It is not moving. Yet. :evil grin:
From: Kevin
Subject: Round 1 actions
OK, just wanted to make sure.
Thanks
From: Porter
Subject: Round 1 actions
Iron Maiden?
Excellent.
*weedleweedleweedle*
Kill them.
Bogus.
From: Mark
Subject: Turn
I am going to try and get a turn out this afternoon.
From: Derek
Subject: Round 1 actions
Mark,
Do those in the room know that Mund et al are being attacked?
From: Mark
Subject: Round 1 actions
Not yet. As far as I can tell neither Mund nor Salix has made any loud reaction. Mund only told the other two to move back to the hall so that they would not get surrounded and Salix agreed. Ran has not said anything yet, since I am controlling him while Randy is out of town. Ran might decide to call for help. :)
From: Mark
Subject: Turn
I will be working on the turn when I get home tonight, in a couple of hours.
I hope the wait for the temple was worth it. I have more combat in store for the party before this thing is done.
From: Porter
Subject: Turn
What? I thought we were wrapping up this adventure. ;)
From: Mark
Subject: Turn
Wrapping up means in the next 2-3 months.
From: Mark
Subject: Round 1
Init round 1: B1, B2, B3, B4, Salix, Ranthir, Mund
The desiccated creature to Mund's left (B1) moves a bit to it's right and swings at the barbarian with a double fisted slam (AC23, 3+5=8, miss) but the barbarians years of experience shows as he leans back and the claw like finger nails swish in the air.
The second creature (B2) attacks Mund as well flailing at the human (AC23, 3+5=8, miss). Mund dodges this swing instinctual y as well.
The third creature (B3) moves to block the three from leaving the room. It rakes its fists at Ranthir (AC17, 5+5=10, miss) but he is able to block them with his shield, the claws making a screeching sound as they drag across the metal surface.
The last creature (B4) moves around Ran's foe and closes the trap. It swings at the ½ elf (AC17, 8+7=15, miss). The silvery chains on Ran's elven mail tug as they deflect the blow.
Salix realizes that they have sprung a trap. They are surrounded and they way out was blocked. Not sure what type of creatures these were, the three could use some help. Giving up the sphere of flame blessing he had asked for earlier today, he starts chanting the prayer of summoning.(Full round action, creature will show up next round.)
Ran realizes that he has foes on both three sides. They might overwhelm him by shear numbers. He had to protect Salix and himself. Taking a step back, so that his back was against the wall and Salix was to his left, Ran shouts "Help. The dead walk in here. Harp, Ragnar, Kal. We need you." As he shouts he swings at the enemy blocking the way out (B4) (AC15, 17+11=28, hit, damage 5). His blow leaves a small wound on the things side that does not bleed. His second blow (AC15, 14+6=20, hit, damage 6) leaves a matching wound on the things other side. It too does not bleed.
"Hey guys, lets back up to the hallway" Mund says. As he turns to usher the other two out of the room he sees that there are three more of the things and that the way out is blocked. Anger wells in Mund and he releases the power of the bear within him. His ax swings in a wide arc at the twisted creature before him (B1)(AC15, 19+13=32, hit damage 12) and the frosty blade bites deep into the pallid flesh. His second swing (AC15, 5+8=13, miss) goes high as the thing ducks under the blow.
Out in the hall leading to the room Ally hears the sounds of combat and Ran's yell. In the other room, Surin, who was heading out the short hall in the northwest stops when he hears Ran's shout. Harp, Kal and Ragnar all hear the shout as well.
OODM: For round 2 the Init order is:
B1, B2, B3, B4, Harp, Surin, Salix, Ragnar, Kal, Ran, Ally, Mund
From: Karl
Subject: Round 2 actions
Salix will order the summoned hippogriff to attack b3 while he himself will move up and attack b2.
From: Josh
Subject: Round 2 actions
Kal will do a full run (that one with all the penalties) to square J8, if nothing has changed in the combat. He wants to stop about 2 squares away from the baddies.
From: Kevin
Subject: Round 2 actions
Harp hears the yells coming from the other room. Damn it, guards were going to be coming down this hallway any time now. Well, he would just have to hold them off.
"Kal, Ragnar, go help them, but get back here fast. I'll hold these guys off as long as I can."
Shouting to Allistair he says "Ally, tell them to defend themselves, help is on the way."
Harp will take a peek around the door to see if the guards are coming.
From: Bryan
Subject: Round 2 actions
"It looks like a pit trap could be a bit moot at this point", Surin thinks. He turns and moves back into the room with Harp. "With my small stature, I'll help Harp with the soon-to-be-approaching guards."
Surin pulls out his axe and moves towards the doorway in which Harp is standing.
From: Kevin
Subject: Round 2 actions
OOC: With Surin's size and strength, there's little he can do to help. Harp will appreciate the thought, but Surin can walks between Harp's legs. Unless he can think of a way to kep this door closed, he's gonna have fun if these guys make it through.
Round 2 actions, Surin and round 2
Subject: Round 2 actions
Yeah, I was considering that an invisibility potion and some noise might serve to draw off the goons.
From: Kevin
Subject: Round 2 actions
But the goons got to get through the door for that to work, and Harp is going to try and make sure they don't get through the door.
From: Jason
Subject: Round 2 actions
At Harp's words, Ragnar sprints through the large door and down the corridor. Sadly, even sprinting, Kal leaves him far behind, and by the time he can see the combatants the battle is well underway.
OOC Ragnar runs up as far as he can.
From: Kevin
Subject: Round 2 actions
When Harp sees Surin come back into the room, pulling his axe from his belt, Harp gives a little chuckle. "Surin, I appreciate the effort, but I don't know how much good you'll be able to do if these guys get through the door. Hurry up and go get that pit trap ready - it may be our last ditch way to get out of here. Hurry back, though, and maybe you can help finish these guys off."
OOC: Harp does not say this in a condescending voice. He really wants Surin to set the pit trap so it can be tripped by us on our way out.
From: Derek
Subject: Round 2 actions
"Should we pile these beds up next to the door? That would surely hinder them getting through the door quickly."
From: Kevin
Subject: Round 2 actions
"I'm gonna do that as a last resort. If they get too far, I'm gonna push the door instead of holding it, knocking them off balance for a short while. Then, I'll push the beds in front and hack at them as they try to crawl through."
From: Derek
Subject: Round 2 actions
"I also have a web spell I can cast across the doorway."
From: Mark
subject: Round 2 actions
Please check the map as to where Ally is when he is talking. I have Ally in the hallway heading towards where his brother and Salix are so that he can give them the keys.
From: Derek
Subject: Round 2 actions
Oh. I figured that Ally was still in the room. Since when did Ally have the keys?
From: Kevin
Subject: Round 2 actions
OOC: When I realized that Harp had taken the keys from the dead guard, gone into the torture room with Mund and Salix, and then he got called out, he "forgot" to give them to Salix. So, I asked Allistair to take them to him. He got 1/2 way there when things went sideways. Just make sure he gives them to Salix when the fight is over.
From: Bryan
Subject: Surin
OOC: The only issue I see with the pit trap is simply that it's useless until we go to leave. However, it could be useful to lead some goons into at the very least.
At Harp's insistence, Surin returns to his preparations on the pit trap. As he turns he cannot help but think with some resentment "I really could have been useful in the fight. My stature is an advantage - many have underestimated me in the past."
From: Kevin
Subject: Surin
OOC: Surin does not have to go - that is just what Harp wants. If you think Surin would stay and try and fight, write that up. Harp is not in much of a position to argue at this point. He has 4 heavily armored guys about to come down the hallway - he's going to be distracted. Harp is just used to giving orders from his training in the martial side of the order.
From: Bryan
Subject: Surin
OOC: No. Thinking about it, it probably is a good idea in case a retreat is required. I just know that I'd be annoyed, and it seems to me that Surin's character would also be a little miffed ;)
From: Kevin
Subject: Surin
OOC: But its not what you think, or Harp thinks, but what Surin thinks. If Surin thinks he should stay and help, then let him do it. Harp is not in charge and has a tendency to want tell others what to do.
From: Bryan
Subject: Surin
OOC: Yep. I'm still trying to get a handle on Surin, but (as I said earlier), even though he's annoyed a little, using a specialized skill makes a bit more sense to both him and I.
From: Karl
Subject: Surin
I think you're playing it great. Surin would definitely be miffed if he thought he was being underestimated in a fight, but he'd probably do what Harp asks, even though Harp isn't technically in charge of this leg of the mission. It's good to see Surin with some interior monologue again.
From: Mark
Subject: Round 2
Round 2 Init:
B1, B2, B3, B4, Harp, Surin, Salix, Ragnar, Kal, Ran, Ally, Mund
As the four creatures start to swarm the three companions, one of them (B2) gives Salix a odd look, like it is trying to remember something. When it makes the connection, it turns to the druid and speaks "Brother, have you come to join me? I too once worshiped the tree god as you do, but I have been shown the power of death over life. I was "educated" right here in this room. I learned the power of pain and agony. I learned not to fear death but to embrace it. Life is fleeting and soft. Death is endless and forever. I think I and my new brothers will show you your errors."
With that the 4 attack, almost as one. The first creature (B1) swings at Mund (AC21, 2+5=7, miss) and the barbarian steps aside with ease. A second creature (B2) tries to slam Mund on the shoulder (AC21,11+5=16, miss) but the mithral breastplate stops the blow from having any power.
Ran's two foes move back and forth, each looking for a gap in the fighters defense. One of them (B3) finally swings both fists at Ran's midsection (AC20, 1+5=6, miss) but the ½ elf steps out of the way of the blow. This leaves him open, however, to the last creatures (B4) attack (AC20, 15+5=20, hit, damage 3). As the things claws rake a shallow furrow in the skin on his cheek, Ran feels the cold of the grave try and enter him (Fort save, DC14, 4+7=11, fail, 1 negative level.) He feels some of his life essence flow from his body and into the creature. The ½ elf watches as one of the wounds he had inflicted just seconds before closes over.
"Surin," Harp says "don't worry about the others. Go get that trap set to help us if and when we have to pull out of here." The ½ orc then pushes the door open a bit to look down the short hall to see if the guys in armor have headed their way yet.
Surin wishes he could stay. He knows he could help, but Harp's plan had merit and no one else was qualified to try and modify the trap. With the sounds of combat in his ears he heads back at a full run towards the room with the trap.
Salix almost stumbles when the creature talks to him. However, he finishes the prayer and a large winged form appears behind the creatures. Salix screeches a command and the hippogriff attacks one of Ran's foes (B3). Two taloned feet strike out almost as one (AC15, 17+6=23, hit, damage 6, 18+6=24, hit, damage 5) and then the beak darts forward as well. The smaller creature ducks under the beak (AC15, 6+1=7, miss).
Salix then steps forward drawing his scimitar as he does and slashes at the creature that had spoken (AC15, 15+7=22, hit, damage 9). As he swings he whispers the command word and when the blade strikes, the sword flashes like a bolt of lightening had struck near by. The wound smokes as the druid goes back on the defensive.
With a noise that sounds like a staff in a metal shop, Ragnar runs at full speed to help his friends. His metal armor clanks and bangs with a clatter that is almost deafening but the sturdy dwarf makes it to the room, his sword and shield ready.
At the sound of combat Kal had almost run with out thinking, but he remembers at the last second that his job was to help guard the door. He is relieved when Harp orders him to go help the others. There was evil to kill. Moving at a head long run, he plunges past Allistair and into the room with the others. He pulls up short, taking in the situation. The hippogriff surprises him until he remembers how fond Salix was of using them in combat. Well at least the druid was still alive.
Ran, his body still reeling from the draining of life force, attacks his closest foe (B4) again. His sword whirling in his hand he lands one solid blow (AC15, 12+10=22, hit, damage 10) and his second blow catches the thing unawares. The blade bites deep in the unbleeding flesh (AC15, 19+5=24, hit, critical threat, critical threat roll, AC15, 16+5=21, confirmed, critical hit, damage 15) almost severing the things head.
Ally walks up to the corner of the room to see how the ebb and flow of the battle is going. He had limited arcane power and he was not sure if the situation needed it. He would hate to cast some spell now, especially if the others were up to the challenge, and find out he needed it later.
Mund almost snarls at Salix as the druid moves to the front line. Damn it, the elf was going to get himself killed. Best make quick work of this one and then help mighty elf leader out. Turning his full attention on his enemy (B1) Mund makes two quick swings. The first (AC15, 11+13=24, hit, damage 16) opens up a long cut on the things leg and the second (AC15, 8+8=16, hit, damage 19) cuts a deep gouge in the things side. It howls in what Mund thinks is pain, but the expression on it's face looks almost like one of lust.
OODM: I need actions for round 3.
Round 3 actions
Subject: Round 3 actions
Harp will continue to keep an eye out for guards coming around the corner.
OOC: Mark, remember, Harp will cast Bulls Strength on himself when he hears the men (if Rangar makes that much noise, so should they).
From: Mark
Subject: Round 3 actions
Unless they have special armor, say mithral, and have ranks in move silent, which Ragnar does not.
Stop telling me how to play the bad guys.
From: Karl
Subject: round 3 actions
Now now boys. If you can't play nice . . .
From: Karl
Subject: round 3 actions
The words of the undead creature almost unnerve Salix. Thank God he could not recognize the former druid. How could he stand it if it were someone he knew. More than ever, he *had* to find the Stormfather and save him from this fate.
Hearing clanking that could only be Ragnar come to their aid, Salix orders the Hippogriff to attack the same foe he was attacking (B2), knowing the others would be unable to get past the large beast and could only help Ran against the two on his side. (Salix will also attack B2 with his scimitar.)
From: Bryan
Subject: Round 3 actions
Surin will continue to see about re-setting the pit trap (with a way to trigger it via a rope, if possible).
From: Jason
Subject: round 3 actions
Ragnar will turn undead (I assume these are undead, unless Ragnar knows better, since Ran mentioned the dead walking) and then slowly advance.
From: Mark
Subject: Round 3 actions
I will also do a knowledge check since he has the appropriate skill.
From: Porter
Subject: Round 3 actions
"Oh, you like that, do you?" snarls Mund. "Well, have some more then."
Mund continues to attack B1 like before. If B1 goes down, he'll attack B2.
From: Mark
Subject: Turn
Waiting on Josh and Derek. There will be no turn tonight since the family and I are going to see PoTC. There will hopefully be a turn early tomorrow, since it is one of the RL games tomorrow. Jason will be the guest bad guy.
From: Derek
Subject: Round 3 actions
Allistair sees the fight in the room, but doesn't see how he can contribute. He can cast a couple of fireballs, but there's no way to use one without also hurting his friends. He does have one magic missile left, and now seems to be as good of a time as any to use it.
OOC: Allistair will target B3 with his last MM, since Ran seems to be having the hardest time of it.
Round 3, aftermath
Subject: Round 3
Round 3 Init:
B1, B2, B3, B4, Harp, Surin, Salix, Hippogriff, Ragnar, Kal, Ran, Ally, Mund
The creatures howl at each other. The sound is full of pain and agony, but there is also a tinge of lust and desire. Mund's foe (B1) strikes at him (AC21, 1+8=9, miss) and again the barbarian dances around the attack like it was from a child.
Salix's foe (B2) strikes at the druid, going for the throat (AC18, 17+8=25, hit, damage 2, Fort save, DC14, 5+7=12, fail, 1 negative level). The claw like finger nail only scratches the druid but Salix feels his life force drain out of him at the touch. He realizes that one of the more powerful blessing he had asked for is now gone.
One of Ran's two foes (B3) turns to attack the hippogriff (AC15, 20+8=28, hit, critical threat, critical threat confirmation, AC15, 19+8=27, confirmed, damage 6, Fort save, DC14, 10+6=16, save).
The last of the creatures (B4)continues to attack Ranthir. It lashes out (AC20, 2+8=10, miss) and Ran, a bit more wary this time, blocks the thing's attack on his shield, the talon like fingernails leaving more deep scratches in the steel.
Harp continues listening and looking down the hall. In he mind he goes over the chant for the blessing of strength.
Surin travels the last few feet to the pit and moves over to the wall to take a closer look at the mechanism that control the pit trap (Disable device, DC?, 14+13=27, ?). He takes several seconds, making sure he understand how the trap works so that he can try and modify it.
Salix screeches and tells the hippogriff to change targets. The druid swings his scimitar at the undead in front of him (B2) as he does this (AC15, 1+6=7, miss) However, the shock of the life force drained from him causes his aim to go far off target.
The hippogriff does better. It's two claws rake at the thing (AC15, 13+8=21,hit, damage 8, 9+8=17, hit, damage 8) and then the bite strikes home (AC15, 20+3=23, hit, critical threat, confirmation roll, AC15, 2+3=5,miss, damage 8).
As Ragnar charges into the room he immediately recognizes the unholy things. Wights. He steps forward a few paces and raises his shield held in front of him shouting "By the power of the battle lord, I banish you foul things from this place. A bright light flashes from the sword symbol on the shield and fills the room (Turn check 14=Level+1 HD=8HD creatures, Turn damage, 2D6+Level+CHA mod=12+8+1=21HD affected). Seconds later, when the light starts to fade, the two closest wights.
The one fighting Ran (B4) runs without thoughts of the consequences. As it flees Ran strikes at it's back (AOO, AC15, 6+10=16, hit, damage 6). It continues to move past the party, heedless of the danger. Salix swings as it passes (AOO) (AC15, 17+6+23, hit, damage 9). As it tries to get past Mund the barbarian spins and crashes his ax into the things chest (AOO) (AC15, 5+11=16, hit, damage 15). The thing staggers and then falls to dust.
The other wight (B3) runs past the hippogriff which rakes it with a claw (AOO) (AC15, 20+6=26,hit, critical threat, confirmation, AC15, 11+6=17, confirmed critical hit, damage 8). It then runs by Kal who pierces it with his rapier (AOO) (AC15, 20+12=32, hit, critical threat, confirmation roll, AC15, 16+12=28, hit, critical hit, damage 19).
Kal follows the thing to finish it off (AC15, 3+14=17, hit, damage 8). His rapier darts out and pierces the cowering thing in the chest, a sickly ichor that might have once been blood clings to his blade when he pulls it out.
Ran realizes that he probably could not catch the fleeing thing but he could help Salix. He steps forward, swinging at Salix's foe (B2), his first blow landing solidly (AC15, 5+10=15, hit, damage 8). His second blow also lands (AC15, 17+5=22, hit, damage 4) and opens another wound.
Ally turns and watches the one thing (B3) flee. Not wanting to risk Kal's life, the mage chants the magic arrow spell and 4 bolts of energy leap from his finger tips. They strike the cowering thing (Damage 17) and it bursts in to dust, collapsing on the floor.
Mund growls at the one in front of him (B1) "Oh you like that, do you? Well have some more" and drives his ax (AC15, 5+11=16, hit, damage 9) into the things head. The body falls to dust as it collapses to the floor. On the back swing Mund turns his blow and strikes at the last creature (B2) (AC15, 8+8=16, hit, damage 12). His icy blade shoves itself into the things spine, severing it. Mund is about to pull it free when the body collapses to dust, just as the others have.
OODM: This fight is over.
From: Karl
Subject: Aftermath
What a fool I was, thinks Salix. I could have gotten us killed. I should have known nothing dead here would stay dead for long.
"Th-those things d-did something. . ." Salix begins. "I feel . . . *weakened*. . . like I've lost a part of myself." He looks at Ragnar, especially, remembering how he had shown knowledge of these types of effects in the past.
"Still, we have to hurry." Salix checks the door, (OOC - I'm assuming he'll find it locked) and raps on it, listening for any answering sound.
From: Mark
Subject: Aftermath
Jason is going to be at my house this afternoon, so will fill him in on what happened.
From: Porter
Subject: Aftermath
Mund, unaware that this was anything other than yet another minor scuffle, goes to his brother and gives him a congratulatory and too hard slap on the back. "You see that? Bam! You take out one of them, and I take out the other three, just like that.
From: Josh
Subject: Aftermath
Sorry I missed last round, thanks for filling in for me mark. I'll have a turn out later today.
From: Derek
Subject: Aftermath
Allistair tosses the keys to Salix. "What were those things, Ragnar? Salix and Ran look like something happened to them."
From: Josh
Subject: Aftermath
"Harp's alone." Kal says quickly and runs back from the way he came. If he sees any cloth he'll grab it to wipe his rapier clean.
From: Karl
Subject: Aftermath
"Keys?" Salix says, then slaps a fist to his forehead. What an idiot he was. He will try the keys to see if any fit in the door.
(OOC - this is assuming it is, of course, locked, and after any response from his banging on the door. I.E. if something results from the banging that would lead him to *not* open the door, he will hold off, otherwise, he'll check inside if one of the keys fits.)
The cells, turn and hallway
Subject: Undead and critical hits
As my brother told me last night while we games, I screwed up big time. There were several critical hits by party members on the wights. However, undead are imune to crits. It would not have mattered in the overall thing, but the battle would have lasted another round or two. Since it was an error in favor of the party, I will let what was written stand. But hopefully I will not make such a mistake again.
I am working on the next turn now.
From: Mark
Subject: Turn
Sorry there will be a delay in getting the turn out. Family has to go to a concert so the eldest son can do a report for school.
From: Mark
Subject: The cells
As soon as the fight is over Kal says "Harp is alone. I will go stand with him." Salix nods, thankful for the elf remembering this need. Harp may have been a good influence on the elf. Salix almost startles when he realizes what he just thought. A ½ orc would be a good influence on an elf. He smiles grimly to himself at the irony. Mund walks over to his brother and almost knocks him off his feet with a slap on the back "You see that? Bam! You take out one of them, and I take out the other three, just like that."
Salix looks at Ragnar hoping the cleric will have some knowledge as to why he feels so drained. The dwarf looks at him with concern. "Those things were wights, undead created through sheer violence and hatred. They hate all life. A person killed by the touch of such a creature becomes one like it under its command. The things very touch can suck the very essence of life from you. I expect that is what happened to you and Ran. I know prayers that can help you both, but I have not asked for such blessings today. So for now, I can not help you, but if we get out of here, I should be able to restore you." Salix and Ran nod , horrified at the fate that might have befallen them.
Salix turns to the door on the south wall. The door is a heavy metal door, similar to what they had seen in the basement of the Mayor's house. Salix tries to open it but finds that it is locked. He says over his shoulder "Can one of you go get Surin, we might need him here?" The ½ elf is surprised when Allistair steps up, a large keyring in his hand "Harp picked this up in the last room. He sent me with it. He thought you might need it." Salix almost slaps his forehead in relief and takes the large set of keys.
Kal enters the room with Harp and finds the ½ orc still peering down the hall through the open door. "Everything ok?" Harp asks. "Fine, we killed the things, or at least killed them again. Some type of undead called wights. Ragnar says that they can suck the life right out of you. But they went down easily enough. You should have seen Mund and that new ax of his. He might be an uncouth bastard, but he can fight." Harp nods "I sent Surin to see if he can rig that pit trap so that we can use it to protect our retreat. It might slow down pursuit a bit if guys in plate have to jump over a deep pit." Kal nods in agreement.
Back in the antechamber Surin sticks his torch in a spot in the wall and spends a minute or so going over the mechanism and the trap itself. Behind a small panel in the wall the halfling finds the locking mechanism. Taking out his kit, he starts to tinker with the gears and pulleys "Let's see, this is what locks it, this is the rope to the counter balance, this is the...." . Two minutes later he has it (Disable Device, DC25, 17+13=30, success). The halfling is almost surprised at how well it worked. When the party pulls the rope he has left out the mechanism will open automatically instead of waiting for someone trip it. It will also lock open so that their pursuers could not close it easily. Just as he is putting his tools away he hears a loud clanking noise coming from the hallway to the east.
Salix takes the keys from the mage "Thanks, this might make it a bit easier. If you want to come with me you can or you could go back and wait with Harp and Kal. I expect this to be ugly. Mund, would you come with me?" He looks at the barbarian, his eye almost pleading. Mund grunts "Sure, got nothing else to do right now and the faster we find this Acer guy the sooner we'll be helpin out the tribes." Salix nods thanks and turns to Ragnar and Ranthir "Would you two stay here and guard us? Or go help Harp and Kal if they call?" Both nod yes and Salix turns back to the door.
The lock on the door is a massive one so the druid takes the largest key on the ring and places it in the lock. The key turns and there is a series of mechanical sounds as bolts and latches are freed. When the noise quiets Salix pulls on the large iron ring and swings the door open and to his right. The light from Mund's torch reveals a 30 foot hallway with six doors on the west wall. In the dim torch light Salix can see that the last door in the hallway is the only one closed.
OODM: Actions? Please let me know if you have a problem with where your character is. If you want him some place else tell me the location. Surin has to be where he is due to his work on the trap. Mund, Salix and Harp all have to be where they are do to what they have said.
From: Josh
Subject: The cells
Kal looks down the hallway, "Any movement?" he whispers.
OOC: Kal will stand at AA10 and wait for anything to happen.
From: Jason
Subject: The cells
Ragnar would want to be up with Salix and Mund, unless Salix asks him to go back with Harp. In fact he'll volunteer to head down the corridor first, without the torch, since he has the best vision for it. If they agree, he would only look in the open doors, and not try to open the closed one.
From: Jason
Subject: Guest bad guy
Wow, I apparently missed like 6 emails while I was writing my previous one and didn't notice them until now. Undergrad at Cornell, now in nuclear engineering at U of Wisconsin. And I'd just like to say that I managed to knock out both the sorceror and the wizard, and the cleric was at 5 hp. One blasted fighter (played by Kevin) just wouldn't die, or even get hit as much as he should have considering he was fighting two hook horrors by himself for three rounds.
Oh, and the baby was delicious.
From: Kevin
Subject: Hallway
OOC: Mark, just so it is clear, Surin heard clanking coming down what was the "rail line" that the group came down originally (the one that had three door - we went in 1 door (the most used) and ignored the other two, right?
From: Mark
Subject: Hallway
Correct.
From: Kevin
Subject: Guest bad guy
OOC If he had decided to fight defensively, they might never have hit him. He has 5 ranks of tumbles, so would have gotten another 3 to his already high A/C.
It was a good fight none the less.
Jason, I was good to see you again. Hope you can make it back this way again in the near future.
From: Kevin
Subject: The cells
"No, nothin yet. That worries me. You want to try and sneak down there and see if you can still hear them? They could have gone somewhere else."
From: Karl
Subject: The cells
Salix looks down the corridor. The single closed door actually encourages him. "That has to be where the Stormfather is being held" he says and starts to head down the hall but the dwarf stops him.
"Let me go. I can check out the open cells first, and I don't even need the torch." Salix is surprised, but glad for the dwarf's level-headedness. No sooner had Salix led the group into an ambush, but he was already about to possibly do it again even before the echoes of the previous battle had died.
"Good thinking," he says to Ragnar. "Be careful".
Salix will let Ragnar check out the open cells, moving down the hall with Mund (Porter willing) only after Ragnar has cleared a cell.
Acer, Ranthir and deep slumber
Subject: Acer
Ragnar nods and starts down the hallway at a measured pace, trying to keep his clanking to a minimum. At each door he pauses and glances inside before moving on.
OOC: Yes, Ragnar is attempting to move silently in full plate. Its a fairly instinctive thing despite its futility.
From: Kevin
Subject: Acer
OOC: You know, mithral full plate would be a great addition to our dwarf friend. Not that it makes him move any faster, but its quieter.
Would make for a nice Christmas present (or whatever holiday dwarf's give each other presents).
From: Mark
Subject: Acer
As Salix starts to head down the narrow hallway Ragnar grabs his arm. "Maybe I should go first? I can see in the dark and my plate armor would make a lousy snack for any thing that would want to have me for lunch. And if there are any more undead hiding back there, I am the best qualified to handle them." Salix starts to protest but stops short. They were so close now, he was sure. This was not the time to rush in and get himself or others killed. Ragnar had turned those wight things and he could see in the dark. Handing the dwarf the key ring he says "Go ahead, but be careful and call for help if you need it. Mund and I will be right out here."
Ragnar nods and with his back to the east wall, heads down the hall way. His sword and shield ready, he shuffles as quietly as he can, which is not saying much. Mund grimaces and starts to move to go take Ragnar's place when Salix puts a restraining hand on his shoulder "Being quiet is not the main goal here, finding Acer is. Your fast, so if he gets into trouble, move as fast as you can to help him." The barbarian nods and grips his ax even tighter.
First cell is empty. Seems to have a bunch of straw on the stone floor and that was about it. There were places for chains to be locked or bolted on. Keep moving. Second cell, a body. The dwarf signals to the others that he is going in. a quick step through the open door and he can see that it is the decayed body of some poor victim of the temple. Ragnar taps it once with his metal shod boot, but this provokes no response. Time to move on.
Third door, open and empty. Fourth door, open with another body. This one seems only recently dead. A young human woman, maybe mid twenties, a small rag doll still held in her dead hands. The womans throat had been slit, the cut making a mocking smile under the grimace on the face above. Keep moving. The fifth door also open and empty. The sixth door. Ragnar looks at the lock and at the keys. In the dark they all appear the same so he choose one and starts trying them, one at a time. On the fourth try, the lock clicks. Putting the keys back on his belt, Ragnar pulls the door open and looks in.
Along the back wall is a human shaped figure. It lies on the floor, its back to the door. Ragnar takes a step into the cell, checking to make sure the body is alone. Except for a few spiders and bugs, the cell is empty. He steps back out and gives a quick whistle to get the others attention. He sees Mund's torch appear in the doorway. "One body, have not checked to see if it is alive. Room is empty. Come on down Salix, you get to have the honors."
The dwarf moves aside as Salix runs down the short hallway and into the room. Mund follows a few steps behind. He stops at the fourth cell, as the dead woman body shows up in his torch light. He looks at the woman for a second, wondering what about her looks familiar. Then he has it. She's wearing the same material as the little girl was. He shakes his head and moves on down next to the cleric.
The druid approaches the body on the floor carefully. Remembering what had been done to Sephira, he steels himself. Kneeling down he rolls the body over. His heart leaps in his chest. It's him. The Stormfather. Acer. Quickly checking for a pulse, he finds one, it is weak but there. Salix makes a quick inspection, trying to determine Acer's condition. Just like Sephira he had been blinded. His hands had been cut off. However, this time they had cut Acer's tongue from his head. Leaning down next to the old man Salix whispers in his ear "Acer, it's me, Salix. Can you hear me? We've come to rescue you." When there is no response for several seconds Salix whispers again "Where verdant forest meets azure skies."
Seconds later there seems to be a response. There is feeble movement in his legs and arms. His head moves, trying to find the sound that had brought him out of his trance. Acer is alive.
Out in the guard room Kal is just starting to head down the hallway when he hears a loud clanking sound coming from somewhere down the hallway ahead of him. It sound like there might be three or four people running in heavy metal armor.
Back in the antechamber Surin takes his torch quickly puts it out. In the dark he sees that there is light coming from the hall way to the east, where the rail line is. He steps into the shadows (Hide, take 10, 10+18=28), his ax ready in his hand.
OODM: Actions?
From: Randy
Subject: Acer
OOC: I'm back from a too short vacation (aren't they all). Where is Ranthir during this? Did he stay in the room with the wights or did he go back to Harp?
From: Derek
Subject: Acer
OOC: Is Allistair aware of anything that's happening anywhere?
IC: Since there aren't any sounds of battle from the cells, Ally decides those in the cells are safe, and goes back to the room where harp and Kal are.
From: Mark
Subject: Acer
It depends on where he is. If he is in the guard room he knows that Kal was heading out the door to take another look down the hallway. If he was still in the torture chamber, then he knows that Ragnar and Mund and Salix have gone down the hall with the cells.
You tell me where you want Ally to be: either in the guard room or in the torture chamber.
From: Mark
Subject: Acer
I have Ran still in the torture chamber. he can move to wherever he wants. Just give me a location.
From: Randy
Subject: Ranthir
Ran, hearing the commotion from the barracks, calls out "Fall back! There is no retreat from here!" He stays in position, hoping Harp and Kal can hear him. This was a much more defensible position than that crowded room.
OOC: Ran will do this as soon as he hears anything from the barracks.
From: Mark
Subject: Ranthir
Not sure what you mean by commotion in the barracks. Harp and Kal are in guard room, with Kal just outside the door. He has heard noise comming from down the hallway, which sounds like people moving in armor.
Right now Ran is in the torture chamber near the hallway leading to the guardroom.
Ally is in the guard room now as well. Give me a square location where you want Ranthir and I will let you know what he sees and hears.
From: Kevin
Subject: Ranthir
OOC: Randy, what commotion are you referring to? Kal heard clanking sound down the hallway he expected it to come from. Harp is ready at the door to try and hold the door closed and is ready to cast bulls strength on himself when he sees them turn the corner. Surin is back by the pit trap, having set it so it can be manually triggered. He has heard clanking coming down the rail line the whole group used maybe 1/2 hour to an hour ago. The creatures in the rail line so far do not know that Surin is hiding there, and the guards that were getting suited up (the ones Kal just heard) know there is something going on in the barracks, but not what. Let Mark know where you want Ran (in the torture chamber, back in the barracks with Harp, where ever).
From: Karl
Subject: Acer
"Ragnar", Salix calls out. "It's the Stormfather. Come here quickly. I need your best healing prayer."
Salix will whisper to the Stormfather, "My friend has powerful healing from his god. He will help you regain some of your strength." After Ragnar heals the Stormfather, (assuming he does), Salix will ask acer if he can take the wild shape. If so he will suggest the stormfather take the shape of something small enough for Salix to carry out to safety.
From: Josh
Subject: Deep slumber
There's a 3rd level spell that puts 10HD creatures to sleep. I remember we were talking about this a while ago.
Healing Acer, back at the pit, things get complicated
Subject: Healing Acer
Ragnar will sacrifice Summon monster IV for a CCW. He will also try to see if the Stormfather is bound in any way. If not, he may be able to carry him.
From: Bryan
Subject: back at the pits
Surin will wait in the shadows, attempting to ascertain who is outside if the light source doesn't move to enter the room. Else, he'll continue to wait in the shadows, observing the source of the light and following it as it moves towards the party.
If it's one of the bad guys he'll use the pit-trap on it.
From: Porter
Subject: Christmas
Christmas is the one with the elves.
From: Mark
Subject: back at the pits
Two problems. First,if he uses the pit trap now, it will be open when the party comes through. Surin was able to make the mods, but due to limited time and the contruction, the use is a one time thing.
Second, Surin is on the wrong side of the trap. He set it up so that the party could pull the rope on the way out, and Surin is on the other side of the trap at the moment.
Remember, this was supposed to be a way to slow down pursuit from behind when the party left this way. The mods Surin did where not designed to work in this situation.
From: Karl
Subject: Christmas
That made me laugh out loud.
From: Kevin
Subject: Healing Acer
Harp waits to hear or see something from Kal. When and if he sees some indication from Kal that he hears something, Harp will cast Bulls Strength on himself.
From: Derek
Subject: Healing acer
Allistair calls down to those in the cells. "You guys might want to hurry it it up. I don't think we want to leave Harp and Kal by themselves if someone else comes along." He then goes to the sleeping/barracks room where Harp and Kal are.
OOC: I'm leaving for Japan tomorrow morning for 2 weeks. Porter will take care of Ally during that time. (I finally get to see my wife and kids after not seeing them for almost 2 months! Yay!)
From: Josh
Subject: Healing acer
Kal will cast Bulls Strength on himself when Harp casts his. He'll try to wait until the last possible moment to cast though
From: Kevin
Subject: Healing acer
Have him run through the door and then cast it on himself. Harp plans on holding the door closed so you should have time once you get through the doorway.
From: Randy
Subject: Healing acer
OOC: I assumed that Kal heard the clanking coming towards him and that this noise would eventually reach the guard room. I assumed that Ran would eventually hear this noise and then he would call out. For now he stays in the position he is in unless he is told otherwise by Salix.
From: Mark
Subject: Healing acer
I will keep it in mind. Right now they, being Harp and Kal, are not 100 % sure that the noise involves them. They are fairly sure, but do not want to give away that they, Harp and Kal, know that the guys in armor are on the way.
From: Josh
Subject: Healing acer
I'm not sure how Kal got there, I meant for him to stand on the square to the right of harp. Either way he'll head there now, and once he's sure there are baddies coming he'll cast Bulls Strength.
From: Josh
Subject: Healing acer
Well he got into the hallway when I thought he said that he was going to go down the hallway and check it out again. I could have sworn Harp and Kal talked about that. Not a biggie, the resolution to that will happen soon.
From: Bryan
Subject: Back at the pits
I assumed it was as easy to reset once as to reset twice. In that case I'll not use the pit trap.
From: Mark
Subject: Back at the pits
Not in this situation. Surin has basically sabotaged the trap He has been able to rig it for this one time use.
From: Mark
Subject: Things get complicated
As Surin stands in the darkness the light grows brighter. A few seconds later a man in plate armor huffs into view and comes through the door. He has a torch similar to the one that Mund carries and he has a longsword in the other hand. He leans his sword against the wall, pulls out a keyring and selects a key. He then closes the door and, to Surin's dismay, locks the door. The man then turns and picks up his sword. He then moves to the south wall and pushes a small stone on the wall. Turning back into the room he crosses over the trap and moves right past Surin (Spot check, DC30, 11+?=?.) He moves on into the antechamber. He stops when he sees the secret door still open. Surin hears him mutter "Conrir was right. We've got intruders." The man moves through the door at a slow walk, trying to keep the noise down.
Back in the guardroom Kal listens to the noise from down the hall. It is consistent for a few seconds and then he thinks he hears a voice in common say "He's had enough time. Let's go!" The sound gets louder immediately, so Kal moves back into the room "I think their on their way." Harp grunts and waits until he sees the first person move into view. Seconds later an armored figure appears and Harp says the prayer for strength. As soon as the power of his god fills him he pulls the door shut, holding on to the latching mechanism as best he can.
Kal realizes what Harp is doing and chants his spell of strength. He feels the power flow through him. Turning to Ally he says "You may want to let the others know company is coming. We should be able to hold for a while, unless Faldor is with them." He turns back and readies his blade, a smile of satisfaction on his face. He would get to strike a blow against this evil once more. Harp and he had fought next to each other before. They made a good team.
Ally hurries back to the torture chamber where Ranthir is waiting "You might want to let those three know that trouble is coming. The guys in armor are moving on the guard room. Harp and Kal think they can hold them, but it might be time to get out of here." Ran nods and calls down the hall to the three at the cell "Time to move guys. Bad guys on the way." He then heads back to the guard room, Ally close behind.
Down in the last cell Ragnar is just finishing his healing prayer (CCW, heal 32). The broken bones mend, the cuts and the bruises heal over. Acer's breathing is suddenly easier but the more serious violations of his body remain. Ragnar backs out of the cell, leaving Salix with Acer. The younger druid leans in and whispers in the older man's ear "My friend Ragnar has healed some of your wounds. I know you are still hurt. Are you able to take the wildshape?" The old man's head shakes no.
"Then we will carry you" is Salix's determined reply. "Mund" Salix yells "we need your ax in here." The barbarian shows up at the door to the cell and Salix points to the chains connected to the rings around Acer's feet. "Take care of those would you?" Mund grins and swings his ax. The cold steel hits the metal and shatters it.
"Ok you two, out to the guard room. We're getting out of here." Salix helps Acer to his feet. The old man is still unsteady, but the younger man gives him a shoulder to lean on and the two move slowly out of the cell and down the hall. How light his former master has become. With Mund and Ragnar leading the way the four move as fast as they can into the guard room. At the south door Harp is straining to hold the door shut. Even with his enhanced strength he is slowly loosing ground.
OODM: Ok everyone except Surin is in the guard room. I need actions and locations. Things are going to get interesting quickly. Acer can stand on his own, barely. He is unable to move on his own yet.. He can not talk but he can hear and can communicate simple answers.
From: Jason
Subject: Things get complicated
Ragnar has his sword out and looks first towards the door Harp is trying to hold closed, then towards the way back to the tunnel. Finally he hurries over to stand behind Harp and Kal. (Assuming we're going to fight and Salix doesn't have us do something unexpected,) He murmurs to Harp "Don't worry, my brother, our lord is with us," and calls down a blessing on Harp (Shield of Faith.)
OOC: As Mark mentioned, I'm travelling to CA. Once I log off for the night I have no idea how or when I'll have internet access. Not that I expect it to take too long, but I might not be able to reply tomorrow, or maybe even not until the weekend or something. If he's willing, I'd like Josh to take over Ragnar until I get back.
From: Karl
Subject: Things get complicated
If Salix has a healing potion on him, he will give it to the Stormfather, feeding it to him if necessary. If he doesn't have one, (I can't remember how they were distributed, but I don't think Salix has used any), he will ask for one and give it to the Stormfather. If necessary, he will explain "We need to get him as strong as we can. We can't drag him through the tunnels in this condition."
From: Josh
Subject: Things get complicated
Kal looks around the room, to get a feel for the battle. He says to Mund "Quick, Move this bed with me to in front of that door. It will give us room to surround them when they come in, and give us some warning if someone comes from behind."
OOC: Kal wants to move the bunk from AB9-10 to AC6-7
Jason, thanks :). I'll try to take good care of him. Have fun in CA.
From: Karl
Subject: Things get complicated
Kal, we need to retreat. If we bunker down in here, they can get reinforcements to trap us in here from both directions. We can't afford that."
From: Josh
Subject: Things get complicated
Kal thinks for a second and then nods in agreement. "If we're going to do any fighting here then we have to move this bunk, give us room to surround them. If not then we can just move back the way we came. Are we ready to leave?"
Turn, stay or go
Subject: Surin follows
Surin will follow the man with the keys from a safe distance (it doesn't seem prudent to attempt to move to alert the others). If the man moves to attack the others, Surin'll wait for him to engage and then attack him from behind.
From: Karl
Subject: Things get complicated
If I can change my turn, I'd prefer to have Salix cast stoneshape on the door jam, shaping a rim of stone around the door to hold it closed. He will do this immediately. If this works, he will then order a retreat back they way they came.
Karl
OOC - I'm away from a computer for the rest of the day. I can' probably respond tonight, but don't hold things up for me. :)
From: Mark
Subject: Turn
Due to some heavy work load and something the family has to do tonight, it is unlikely that I will get anything out today.
From: Kevin
Subject: stay or go
Harp will continue to try and hold the door closed until something else is suggested or done.
From: Josh
Subject: stay or go
OOC: Do we gotttta retreat? I'm itching to see what else is in here. :(
From: Kevin
Subject: stay or go
Young man, you will do what your father told you, or there will be no computer games for the next week. Am I making myself clear??? Young man, do what you are told.
Don't worry Josh, I am sure that we will still meet Faldor, though I would rather it be outside than inside his dungeon by one of Nerull's altar's.
From: Mark
Subject: stay or go