Mystery guest and shooting
Subject Turn
Sorry I have been busy with stuff today.
I will get a turn out tonight.
From: Kevin
Subject Turn
Mark, I jsut realized I had Harp trying to have Mund and Ran do something while we were supposed to be waiting to hear something from Surin. Disregard my earlier e-mail that had Harp trying to get Mund to move closer to his large creature.
Sorry about that.
From: Porter
Subject Turn
Now Harp doesn't get to be disappointed when Mund ignores him. :(
From: Mark
Subject Will the mystery guest please stand up
Harp starts to signal Mund and Ran to close in on the closest bodies but remembers Surin asking them to hold while he scouts around. Figuring that the halfling wouldn't a bunch of people running around he holds his position about 10 feet from the closest body. He studies the body closely. He can see that the man's head has been crushed, the face hardly recognizable. Harp and Mund wait, their bows half drawn while Ran holds the center, his crossbow pointed in the general direction of the wagon.
The next several minutes are agonizing. The listen as best then can but Surin must surely be hundreds of feet from them. Harp starts to wonder if it was such a good idea to send the halfling in alone. Just as Harp is about to shout out a furor breaks out just past the wagon. There is a loud roar, a shout of a command in some odd language and 5 of the figures furthest from the party leap to their feet.
OODM: Surprise round was the creatures standing up. All of the party recognizes them as ogres. They are all dressed in hide armor and have large great clubs that they are using with both hands.
Initiative for round 1 for the party: Ran (23), Surin (22), Harp (21), Mund (17), Allistair (12), Salix (10), Kal (6), Ragnar (2), Please note no one knows what the init count of the ogres is. Please give me contingencies. For example Harp might say: If the ogres have not moved yet Harp will shoot his bow. If they have moved close enough to attack then Harp drops his bow and draws his sword as he charges. Stuff like that. Remember to tell me if there are any special feats or abilities you are going to use. The light blue figures are the ones that stood up.
From: Porter
Subject Will the mystery guest
Mund shouts out to Harp and Rand "Hold your position and let Alley blast them!".
Mund will, for now, hold his ground. If an ogre comes and attacks him, he'll rage and respond with melee. Otherwise, he'll shoot two four arrows (Mund can do that as a full-round action, can't he?) at the closest ogre to him.
From: Mark
Subject Shooting
I am not sure what you mean by two four arrows? He gets two attacks per round, but he can not take a double attack for 4 arrows. The full attack action is a full round action and that is the only action that will allow Mund to shoot two arrows.
In a round you can take a move action and a standard action, or a full round action. If you want you can sub in a second move action for your standard action, and take two move actions. You can not sub in an attack action for a move action.
From: Porter
Subject Shooting
OK then. Two arrows.
From: Jason
Subject Mystery guest
If the ogres rush forward to attack and Ragnar can target a good number of them with Holy Smite, he will. If only a couple get within range, he'll do a Searing Light instead. If none of them come in range at all, he'll cast Magic Circle against evil (on himself). He will only move forward if Salix and Allistair do so, staying behind them unless the other fighters pass the first row of ogres, in which case he'll try to get in front of them.
Round 1 actions, round 1, map round 2 actions
Subject Round 1 actions
Allistair will cast a fireball. If the ogres aren't in melee range with the front line when Allistair's turn comes up, then he will try and blast as many as possible. If they are in melee range with Harp, Mund, etc., then he will do his best to aim it so that the ogres get blasted but his friends don't.
From: Kevin
Subject Round 1 actions
Harp watches as the ogres rise from where they had been lying in wait. The groups patience had paid off., But, Harp's training warns him, there were still potential enemies even closer - they had not confirmed the bodies just in front of them were dead. It would be just like these ogres to pop up, hoping to get the group to charge them, and then have their companions pop up behind as the group rushed to attack.
"Hold the line, the others may be playin' possum." Harp shouts to Ran and Mund. "Let them come to us and let's try an cut a few of them down before they get here."
Harp raises his bow, pulls the arrow to his cheek, and waits for the nearest one to get within range, firing when it does so.
OOC: Mark, Harp is going to ready a full attack. When one of the ogres gets within 110' feet (1 range increment) Harp will shoot 2 arrows at him. Harp has no other special bow feats (other than Weapon Focus and that is already built into his attack bonus).
From: Mark
Subject Round 1 actions
Tell me which ogre he wants to shoot at.
From: Kevin
Subject Round 1 actions
Which ever one comes in range first. Actually, it is more likely that he will shoot at the same one Ran shoots at, since he we be trying to take one of them out before it gets in melee range. Since L3 is the closest by a small margin, I am guessing that it will be the lucky target.
From: Karl
Subject Round 1 actions
Salix will move to K43 (between and slightly behind Ran and Harp). On the way he will call out "Hold your ground! Do not move among the corpses, we don't know how many more of them are alive and waiting!"
He intends to cast Entangle in a strategic spot, but will wait to see where the ogres move to.
OOC - Incidentally, I can't connect to the site I usually use to check D&D rules. Can anyone access and forward the stats for "Entangle"?
From: Kevin
Subject Round 1 actions
Karl, I had the same problem on the SRD20 site this am. They may be having a problem.
From: Anthony
Subject Round 1 actions
(OOC: Okay, right, Ran is Rn! For the last few minutes I though Ra was Ran. Ha ha. Got it.)
Ran stays where he is to allow the wizard to cast his fireball if the chance comes up. At the same time, if the ogres do not move by the time it is his turn, he fires a crossbow bolt (attack bonus +12, damage 1d8) and reloads the crossbow. He targets the closest ogre (most likely... L6?)
If one of the ogres moves forward and begins to attack one of the other players before his turn, Ran targets that ogre with his crossbow bolt. (damn, no precise shot feat. Oh, well.)
If, on the other hand, an ogre moves to within melee range of Ran, he switches to his +1 ghost touch longsword ( attack bonus +11, damage 1d8+3) and attacks.
However, if the ogre gets within 20 feet of Ran without getting into melee, he attacks with his crossbow, then switches to his longsword in preparation for melee the next turn.
(OOC: how's that, guys?)
From: Kevin
Subject Round 1 actions
OOC: If I may,
Anthony, good first turn. Only thing I would suggest would be your first target. At this point, the only large creatures Ran knows is moving are the light blue ones (L1, L2, L3, L7 and L9). The other ones are still prone and "assumed" dead, though some of the party have their suspicions and have express those concerns (Harp and Salix have said as much). You may want to consider reviewing who you are targeting. Also, you will want to read up on combat with creatures that have a 10' reach. There is a section in the PHB that covers this. Ran, being both a fighter and having fought such creatures before will have some knowledge of this, and you should too. Trust me, making the wrong move around something that can reach that far can (and will) have serious consequences. You will want to also review Attacks of Opportunity and the "5 foot step" rule.
For a first try, that was really good. The items I mentioned above are things that even experience players has issues with sometime.
From: Derek
Subject Round 1 actions
OOC: That's why I play a wizard. I just stay out of harm's way and throw spells at the baddies. Don't have to worry about charge, bull rush, reach, AOO, and all that other crazy stuff. If something happens where I DO have to worry about that stuff, a wizard's pretty much SOL anyway, so it doesn't matter.
From: Mark
Subject Round 1 actions
Like when talking to a pissed off manticore and being made a pin cushion. :)
From: Porter
Subject Round 1 actions
Hey, Allistair didn't even drop from that.
From: Mark
Subject Round 1 actions
Never said he did. But most wizards his level would have bleed out from that. It was a classic moment, I feel.
I love when a plan comes together.(gnaws on cigar).
Just ask Kevin about our evil real life game. The whisper gnome took a beating from a trap. It was great.
From: Jason
Subject Round 1 actions
10' reach doesn't really make that much of a difference. Just ask Kal, he loves fighting guys with 10' reach!
But, a little more seriously, I believe Ran has the Mobility feat and you might want to read over that if you don't know what it does (basically it makes you much less likely to be hit while closing with them, +4 AC bonus.)
Other than that, all I can say is you're making us all look bad! I haven't looked up my +hit and damage for... a long time now, I just let Mark take care of it...
From: Mark
Subject Round 1 actions
Jason is right. Ranthir is actually has a better AC when moving through threatened squares and provoking AOO then when standing still.
From: Kevin
Subject Round 1 actions
After looking at Ran's stats again, Mark and Jason are right. Shows you what I get for playing the 6'5" 300 lbs meat shield.
Just wait until Harp gets within melee range.
From: Mark
Subject Round 1 actions
You see now we come into the problem. Instead of just acknowleding that I was right, since I am the DM, Kevin had to go check some figures. I will have to chastise him some more on Friday, during the RL good group game.
From: Anthony
Subject Round 1 actions
(OCC: Whoops! Silly me, I misunderstood which ogres were known about. That is a minor fix. And furthermore, yes, I hadn't thought about the ogres' reach, though I know the rules for such. (have dealt with 'em before, and played 'em as DM.)
Anayway, yes, looking over his feats again... yep, there it is, mobility. However, I recall the wizard planning to fireball 'em, so... no way is he gonna risk getting hit by a fireball. I'll simply edit the post a bit here.)
Ran stays where he is to allow the wizard to cast his fireball if the chance comes up. At the same time, if the ogres do not move by the time it is his turn, he fires a crossbow bolt (attack bonus +12, damage 1d8) and reloads the crossbow. He targets the closest standing ogre.
If the nearby ogres who seem to be down do decide to come back to life, he'll attack the closest one of those (L6, if it awakens, or else the closest standing ogre.) If it is within his move distance, he'll switch his weapon while moving (allowed as he has more than +1 to BAB) get up to it and attack. If it is outside moving distance, he fires crossbow and switches to longsword, in preparation for the next turn.
If one of the ogres moves forward and begins to attack one of the other players before his turn, Ran targets that ogre with his crossbow. (damn, no precise shot feat. Oh, well.) However, if this ogre is within movement distance, he'll do as above and move+switch, then attack.
If, on the other hand, an ogre moves to within melee range of Ran before he can move, he switches to his +1 ghost touch longsword ( attack bonus +11, damage 1d8+3), does a 5-foot step to try to get better ground, and attacks.
However, if the ogre gets within move distance of Ran without getting into melee, same as above with move+switch and attack.
Though wary of fireballs, if an ogre does end up close enough for him to move towards and attack, he figures he's about at the distance where the fireball would hit him anyway, so why not do some damage and pray the wizard decides on another target?
From: Josh
Subject Round 1 actions
Kal's gonna move up to H41 and shoot off a magic missle if the ogre's are still across the clearing. If they're close (able to close on him in a round) he'll instead cast Bull's Strength on himself.
From: Mark
Subject Round 1
Round 1
Initiative: Ran (23), Surin (22), Harp (21), Mund (17),Ogres(15), Allistair (12), Salix (10), Kal (6), Ragnar (2),
The sudden roar only startles Ran a little bit. They had all been expecting some type of ambush. 5 ogres however could be a handful. The one in the testing ground had fallen quickly but they had outnumbered it 8 to 1 and had position. No such luck here. They still outnumbered the ogres almost 2-1 and they had range. The 1/2 elf brings his crossbow to his shoulder, sites down the frame and squeezes the trigger. His bolt flies true and strikes the ogre in the thigh (L3, AC16, 16+10=26, hit, damage5). While Ran reloads his cross bow he yells to Mund and Harp "Shoot the closest one first, then work your way back. Let Allistair take care of the ones in the back."
Harp hears Ran's comments and decides to wait until the ogres charge the party. They were just out of the range he was comfortable with.
Mund has no such hesitation. The closest ogre(L3) is just outside his comfortable range but he fires anyway. His first arrow slams into the things other thigh (AC16, 15+8=23, hit, damage 7). He quickly nocks another arrow and lets it fly (AC16, 10+3=13, miss) but it bounces off the hide armor.
The five creatures seem to be talking to each other, if the loud noise could be called talking. The all start advancing on the party and as soon as they are in range(L3) Harp lets his first arrow fly (AC16, 2+9=11, miss). He curses himself for not breathing and sets another arrow to the string. This one (AC16, 11+4=15, miss) is closer but sticks in the hide armor of the beast.
As the creatures move they all grab javelins from their belts. As they move one of them(L3) throws its javelin at Mund. While the creature obviously is immensely strong, it is also obviously not all that coordinated. The throw is strong but the range allows Mund more than enough time to jump out of the way (AC20, 12-3=9, miss). The others start advancing on the party, clubs and javelins in hand.
Allistair's mind races. This was a perfect setup for a fireball. Lots of open space, the foe a long way off. He watches as the brutes advance and see that three of them will come close to each other. Perfect. Before they even get to where they will be he starts chanting and rubbing the small piece of bat guano between his fingers. Just before the three get to their closest point, he releases his spell.
The timing is perfect. The sizzling ball of flame streaks from his hand and flies to a spot between all three. There it explodes into a ball of flame 40 feet across. The three are engulfed in flames. The three try and dodge out of the way (REF save, DC16, L1, 15+2=17, save, damage 14, L3, 5+0=5, fail,damage 28, L9, 20+0=20, save, damage 14). As the flames subside, the ogre that had been closest to the party falls to the ground in a burning pile.
Salix realizes that he can not catch all of the ogres with his entangle prayer, and seeing one fall and the others get burned, Salix turns his attention to the two on the left flank. He concentrates, praying for the very grass to respond to his command on the behalf of Obad Hai. Roots from shrubs and grasses start to writhe and grab at the ogres legs. The brutes try to avoid the clinging vegetation (REF save, DC 14, L2, 18+0=18, save, L7, 6+0=6, fail ). One of the creatures is held fast, the other continues struggling towards the party.
Kal, who had been trailing behind Harp by about 20 feet, moves up at the commotion. When he gets next to Harp, he chants the mage arrow spell and pointing his rapier and 4 of the bright bolts of energy streak from the tip of his weapon. They fly towards the closest brute that survived the fire (L9) and the bolts sizzle as they strike true (Damage 15). The large figure crashes to the ground, blood flowing from the smoking holes.
Ragnar steps up next to Salix, his holy symbol in his hand. As he raises it to the sky, he chants the prayer and the small silver sword starts to glow. At its brightest, Ragnar points the symbol at the ogre to his left (L2) and a flash of brilliant light flashes out (AC8, 3+5=8, hit, damage 17). The searing light strikes the beast in the middle of his chest, burning a hole in the hide armor and smoking flesh beneath.
OODM: Round 1 is over. I need round 2 actions. New map attached.
From: Porter
Subject Map
Looking at the map, I cannot tell which ogres are up and moving and which are not.
From: Anthony
Subject Map
It looks to me that L1 is active lost 14 HP from fireball, L2 has lost 17 from searing light, L3 was hit by me, Mund and Alastair's fireball and is thus dead, L7 is paralyzed , and L9 was hit by the fireball and Kal, and is thus dead.
That means that on the map, L1, L2 and L7 are active, while the others that are still on the map are still prone.
From: Porter
Subject Round 2 actions
Just like last round, Mund will stay put. If there's something to kill within a 5-foot step, Mund will rage and do so. Otherwise, he'll shoot an arrow off at the closest thing to kill.
From: Mark
Subject Map
L1 is the only ogre still moving freely. L7 is in the entangle area of effect as is L2. The other two are dead.
From: Anthony
Subject Round 2 actions
If his turn goes before the ogres, Ran does this: the closest (L2) being more than 60 feet away, Ran will fire another crossbow bolt at him and then switch to his longsword but stays still if an ogre's next move puts it within Ran's charging range for the next turn.
If an ogre moves close enough for him to charge it by this turn, he does so, switching to his sword during the charge and attacking it. (Is that legal? I know that witha +1 BAB you can switch weapons during a move, so does that include a charge?)
From: Jason
Subject Round 2 actions
Wow, we really wrecked them. Ok, once again if there are several together, Ragnar will send down the wrath of Heironeous to smite them (Holy Smite). If not, but at least one ogre has closed with a fighter, he'll Doom it. If that hasn't happened yet, he'll cast spiritual weapon, (probably on L2.)
Round 2 actions
Subject Round 2 actions
Harp watches as his 2 arrows miss the target. He growls in anger at himself, thinking he should have spent more time practicing with this damn thing. Then, Kal steps up to his side, weaves his rapier in an intricate motion, and four of the glowing mage arrows streak from the tip, burning deadly holes in one of the ogres. "Damn, Kal, I wish I could do that. Those things don't miss, do they?" Harp strings another arrow and takes aim at the ogres again.
OOC: Mark, full attack on L1 if it is still standing at Harp's turn. If it drops, he will take aim at L2 (I am guessing there is some type of cover - but maybe not. Harp can change targets using a full attack, right?
From: Derek
Subject Round 2 actions
OOC: Sweet. That's the first time I remember dropping someone with a fireball, instead of just singeing them a little.
IC: Allistair sees that his fireball had great effect, and they would probably dispatch the remaining ogres in the next few seconds. "Do you want to take any alive? I could turn Mund into a giant so that he could wrestle one down and hold it for questioning. Or should we just kill them all?" Allistair asks out loud to Salix. If Salix says to kill them, he will just fire a magic missle. If they want one alive, Allistair will move up to Mund and ask him what he wants to be changed into: a Hill Giant or a Grey Render.
From: Mark
Subject Round 2 actions
As far as I am concerned you can pull a weapon if you can charge. Dropping the crossbow is a free action.
From: Anthony
Subject Round 2 actions
In that case, my post stands as I said it. Thanks.
From: Mark
Subject Turn
I am playing my real life game tonight so there will not be a turn tonight.
I will get a turn out tomorrow.
Round 2
Subject Round 2 actions
Kal will shoot another missle if they're still pretty far away, otherwise he'll cast bulls strength on himself.
OOC: How many can we see that are definitely still alive?
From: Mark
Subject Round 2 actions
At the end of round 1 only 3 are still standing.
Turn out in a few minutes.
From: Mark
Subject Round 2
Round 2
Initiative: Ran (23), Surin (22), Harp (21), Mund (17),Ogres(15), Allistair (12), Salix (10), Kal (6), Ragnar (2),
Ran swivels in place looking for another target. The one to his left (L2) is a bit closer, so he takes aim and squeezes off another shot. The entangling vines and grass slow the thing down and the 1/2 elf draws an easy line on it. The bolt flies and slams into the ogres shoulder (AC16, 20+10=30, hit, critical threat, Crit threat roll, AC16, 5+10=15, miss,). Ran then reloads his crossbow.
Harp sees the the closest one looks like it as almost out. The one to the right (L1) seems more of a threat, especially since it is not being held in place by the vegetation. Pulling another arrow from his quiver, he aims and releases the arrow (AC16, 4+9=13, miss). The 1/2 orc is starting to get frustrated. It had all looked so easy during practice. But then the targets were not moving. He places a fourth arrow to the bow and shoots it (AC16, 9+4=13, miss) and it too goes wide.
Mund decides to shoot the closest ogre. He pulls an arrow from his quiver and sets it on the bow. Taking a bead on the creature he lets the arrow fly and it strikes the ogre in the head (AC16, 9+8=17, hit, damage 7). The arrow enters the left eye and punches out a large section of the back of its head before it stops. Mund quickly shifts target to the next one in line (L1), pulling another arrow as he does. He sites and lets loose (AC16, 8+3=11, miss) but this arrow flies wide, a slight breeze catching it.
The ogre (L7) being grasped at by the vines and grass underneath it strains and breaks free (DC20 STR check, 15+5=20, success). He stumbles back out of the roots and vines and starts to make his way around the area with the grasping vegetation. The other one (L1), screaming in pain from the fireball, moves towards the party at a surprisingly fast speed, its greatclub swinging in wide circles about its head.
Allistair is ecstatic that his fireball spell has such effect. He had actually killed one of the ogres and wounded two more. Now that is what being a mage was all about. His reverie is broken by the roar of the ogre charging Mund. With an almost disdainful flick of his hand, he makes the gestures and chants the words to the mage arrow spell. Four bolts of energy leap from his finger tips and streak towards the charging ogre and strike it in the chest (damage 14). The mage moves up to just behind Salix. "Do you want to take one alive? I can turn Mund into a giant or something bid and he could probably wrestle one down?"
Salix surveys the field. One ogre is getting close but Ran and Mund will be able to close with it quickly. The other ogre was going to have to go around the area of living grass and would take a while to get here. Salix's mind is so fixed on the scene he does not even realize that Allistair is talking to him. "Harp, go help Ran and Mund with the one getting close. Kal keep the one that is further away off of the fighters."
Kal nods at Salix's command and repeats the enchantment he had just used. His rapier points again with the same results. Four bolts of energy leap from the tip and strike the ogre in the chest, burning holes in the hide armor (Damage 9).
Ragnar strides forward, his holy symbol still glowing from his last prayer. He chants as he moves and calls down the holy power of the battle lord on the closest ogre (L1). A bright light streams from the holy symbol and fills a large area around the ogre(Will save, DC18, 14+4=18, save, damage 7). The creature is able to shrug off the effects of the holy light and continues moving toward the party.
OODM: End round 2. I need round 3 actions.
New Map
From: Josh
Subject Damage
OOC: How much damage did Ran do?
From: Mark
Subject Damage
3 points of damage with the crossbow bolt.
Round 3 actions
Subject Round 3 actions
Harp watches as both his arrows miss again. Damn it, this thing was useless. Hearing Salix's order to move up on the ogre, Harp tosses his bow at Salix's feet and says 'Keep on eye on this damn thing, would'ya?" With that, Harp moves toward the lead orge.
OOC: Mark, Harp will make a double move, drawing his longsword as he goes. I think he can get to P37 with a double move.
From: Porter
Subject Round 3 actions
Mund is very pleased to see the ogre drop from his arrow. Sometimes it's nice to kill stuff without getting hurt.
But usually, it's more fun to get in the middle of things. Mund sees the ogre bearing down on him, so he drops his bow and draws his fancy new axe. Let's see if it's as good at killing uglies as it is at making ice cream.
OOC: Mund rages and attacks.
From: Jason
Subject Round 3 actions
Ragnar is rather dissatisfied with the results of his prayer, but shrugs it off deciding he'll get better at knowing when to use it in the future. In the meantime, he hasn't actually had the opportunity to use his new sword yet, and this certainly seems to be a good opportunity since Salix and Allistair had moved up a bit.
Ragnar will charge L1 if possible, but since it probably isn't, he'll hustle up to N34 (that's an actual run) to get ready for next round. Of course if an ogre has moved there he won't go provoking attacks, he'll give it space.
From: Mark
Subject Round 3 actions
Since Mund acts first, is he going to move first or wait for the ogre to close with him?
From: Porter
Subject Round 3 actions
Mund will act first.
Round 3 and round 4 actions
Subject Round 3 actions
Any one else want to put in some round 3 actions?
I have heard from Jason, Kevin and Porter.
From: Derek
Subject Round 3 actions
Allistair shrugs as no one seems to be listening to him. "Dead it is then, I suppose." Allistair recites the often-used incantation and shoots a magic missle at the ogre closing with Mund.
From: Karl
Subject Round 3 actions
Salix will cast Produce Flame and throw the flame at the nearest Ogre.
From: Mark
Subject Round 3
Round 3
Initiative: Ran (23), Surin (22), Harp (21), Mund (17),Ogres(15), Allistair (12), Salix (10), Kal (6), Ragnar (2),
Ran grins as the ogre charges the party. Three against one was pretty good odds. They had done a fine job of thinning down the opposing numbers. Fights like this were not supposed to be fair. Tracking the ogre, he pulls the trigger on his crossbow (AC17, 3+12=15,miss). Tossing the weapons aside as soon as the bolt leaps free, he pulls his shield onto his right arm and prepares for the things charge.
Harp curses as two more arrows. He was getting angry now. Well might as well fall back on what your good at, he thinks. Throwing his bow at Salix's feet he says "Watch this piece of kindling would you?" He then moves at a trot towards the beast, pulling his sword as he goes.
Mund sees the others drop their weapons and either get ready to advance or advancing. No reason for them to get all of the fun. Dropping his bow, he grabs his new axe and shouts a war cry of the bear clan. The afternoon is shattered by the ear piercing cry. The cry starts the blood flowing and he feels the rage burning with in him. He moves at a steady pace towards the ogre. As he closes, Mund forgets the reach that the creature has. The ogre takes a swing at him (AOO, leaving a threatened square, AC18, 3+18=21, hit, damage 24) and Mund pays dearly. The club crashes into his shoulder. Mund ignores the pain and continues closing, his axe swinging. (AC17, 13+12=25, hit, damage 13). He connects to the things thigh, the frosty blade drawing blood through the hide armor.
The ogre, a cunning look on its face, twirls the huge club like it was a small stick. It's first swing takes Harp in the chest, cracking ribs (AC20, 16+18=34, hit, damage 21). It uses the rebound to power its swing at Mund and catches the barbarian across the head (AC18, 14+13=27,hit, damage 25). Mund sees stars in his eyes and a ringing in his ears as he shakes his head to clear it.
The other ogre moves around the area of roiling grass and vines trying to make its way to the battle.
Allistair shrugs at himself, and chants the mage arrow spell again. With predictable results (Damage 19), the arrows burn deep holes in the flesh of the creature.
Salix chants a prayer for flame and a small ball appears in his hand. He throws the fire at the beast (AC10, 5+7=12, hit, damage 6). The fire singes the thing hair and another ball appears in the druids hand.
Kal sees that the battle is going hand to hand and chants the spell of strength. He feels his muscles pulse with power and he starts moving towards where the battle is, an elvish battle cry on his lips.
Ragnar runs at full speed, pulling his sword as he goes, trying to move himself into a position where he can flank the thing. He knows how to fight giant type creatures, so he needed to get in and help finish this quickly.
OODM: End of round 3. I need round 4 actions.
From: Karl
Subject Round 4 actions
More of the same for Salix.
From: Josh
Subject Round 4 actions
Kal sees Mund get beat with the club and cringes, recalling his own beating. He slows his charge a bit, and casts Blink on himself.
Round 4, Round 5 actions, Is Harp dead?
Subject Round 4 actions
Damn, Harp says to himself, he had done this right and the thing has still crunched him pretty good. This ogre seemed a lot stronger than the other ogres they had fought. Well, then he would just fall harder. If Harp can just get a little to the side, maybe they could surround this thing and distract it enough to give them some advantage. Taking a small step to get close enough, Harp attacks with his trusty sword.
OOC: Mark, 5 ft. step to Q36, full attack.
From: Anthony
Subject Round 4 actions
Ran found his crossbow's lack of power annoying anyway. After throwing it to the ground he charges the nearest ogre himself if it does not get close to him first, and he would preferrably target the ogre attacking Harp and Mund. (L1?)
(PS: Sorry for the delay, it won't happen again. No excuses.)
From: Mark
Subject Round 4 actions
Not a problem. I just wanted to make sure you were getting the turns. We have had problems with people not getting turns.
From: Porter
Subject Questions
Mark -- I sent you some emails yesterday. Did you get them?
From: Mark
Subject Questions
Not sure. What did they say?
From: Porter
Subject Questions
Mund's stats are all wrong on the web page. All of the changes I made after this last level up are gone. His new axe, his skills, etc. -- all gone.
Also, why did you give Mund an 18 AC instead of a 20 AC in this last round? He should be getting a -2 because of his rage, but that's it.
From: Mark
Subject Questions
He was not using his shield. It is a move action to put on a shield. He could not have it on when he was using the bow and you did not say anything about taking time to use his shield. I asked you what you were going to do and you said attack.
Let me see what I can do about the stats on Sake.
From: Porter
Subject Round 4 actions
Ouch. That ogre sure hit. Mund puts on his shield and returns the favor with his axe.
OOC: Is there anything Mund could have done to avoid the AOO? If he had held his ground, the ogre wouldn't have gotten close enough for Mund to attack.
From: Mark
Subject Round 4 actions
There was no way for Mund to have attacked and avoid the AOO. He could have moved to the outside reach, like Harp did, but he could not attack. He would then do a 5 foot step this round.
Ran, with his mobililty actually had/has the best chance against AOO since he gets a +4 to AC. Ragnar is also +4 due to giant creatures.
let me check, putting on a shield while in a threatened square may also provoke. Also, Mund would only get 1 attack if he puts on his shield.
From: Porter
Subject Round 4 actions
OOC: If it provokes, then don't have him do it.
But if it doesn't, then I do want him to do it.
From: Jason
Subject Round 4 actions
Since it will practically be round 5 by the time Ragnar gets to act, I fully expect L1 will be dead. Even if he's not, he'll be surrounded by lions and orcs and raging barbarians on all sides so...
IC: Seeing that his companions seem to have their ogre under control, he continues heading north (or whatever direction up is, since its apparently not north) to cut off the remaining ogre. This was the perfect time for him to ask for another new blessing. Praying silently to Heironeous, he feels his own body infused with divine power. (Casts Divine Power) Still wary of the giant club, he cautiously approaches the last ogre. (Ragnar will move up to 20' away from the ogre so that he can attack next round without, but no closer, so he doesn't get clobbered by the much quicker ogre.)
From: Mark
Subject Round 4 actions
I just got home and checked and it is a move action that does not provoke an AOO. So he can get his shield on but he will only get one attack this round.
From: Porter
Subject Round 4 actions
That's what I thought. That's what I want Mund to do.
From: Mark
Subject Information
I just realized that I have been doing the Summon Nature's Ally wrong.
I have been having the creatures show up in the turn the spell is cast. However, the casting time for this spell is one round. That means it takes a whole round to cast the spell and the monsters/creatures show up at the start of your next round. So that can not attack in the round you start the spell, but they can in the round you finish it.
Derek does this change anything that you want to do?
From: Derek
Subject Information
Yes, it does. I doubt that ogre will last more than one more round, so Allistair will fire a MM at him instead.
From: Mark
Subject Round 4
Round 4
Initiative: Ran (23), Surin (22), Harp (21), Mund (17),Ogres(15), Allistair (12), Salix (10), Kal (6), Ragnar (2),
Ran watches Mund engage the nearest ogre. The ogres response shocks the 1/2 elf. The thing fights like in blind rage. Three quick swings with that huge club have Mund and Harp already wheeling from the crushing blows. Moving cautiously, trying to avoid the things attack, he moves in closer, his blade swinging low (AOO, AC25, 9+18=27,hit, damage 20). He tries to deflect the huge clubs as it swings at him, but it catches him on his shield. His arm goes numb at the force of the blow. Ignoring the pain he moves in, his sword darting at a gap in the things armor (AC17, 4+11=15,miss). At the last second the ogre twists and the blade grates along tough hide, leaving a large gash.
Harp, his chest on fire, steps next to the ogre and swings his sword for all he is worth. He knows that none of them can stand up to this type of beating for long. Taking advantage of the ogres distraction, he swings high and cuts deep into the ogres neck (AC17, 12+12=24, hit, damage 12). He pulls the sword out and spins around, bringing the sword low this time (AC17, 8+7=15,miss). His sword crashes into the chest plate of the ogres armor, bouncing off harmlessly.
Mund, his ears still ringing from the blow he had just gotten, takes a step so that he is opposite of Harp, pulls his shield on to his left arm and swings his axe again (AC17, 15+12=27, hit, damage 14). The frosty blade cuts deep again, the blood freezing in the wound.
The ogre takes a step back and swings his huge club again. Harp seems to be the unfortunate focus of his attack. The first swing (AC20, 13+18=31, hit, damage 25) catches Harp across the shoulder, almost pulverizing the joint. The second swing (AC20, 13+13=26, hit, damage 26) catches the 1/2 orc on the helmet and fells him like a tree. Harp collapses to the ground with a loud groan, blood flowing from his nose and ears. The ogre screams in defiance and turns on the others.
The other ogre screams back and comes charging towards the party, its club whirling in circles around its head.
Allistair is shocked to see the big 1/2 orc fall. When the thing whirls on his brother Allistair quickly chants the mage arrow spell and another four arrows streak and strike the thing in the chest, burning through the body. The ogre screams in frustration and falls to the ground, smoke wafting up from the holes in its chest.
Salix knows that the best thing he can do for Harp right now is kill the other ogre (L7). He throws another ball of flame (AC 10, 14+7=21, hit, damage 6) and the small ball burns the ogre.. Another ball appears in Salix's hand.
Kal watches as the ogre beats the other fighters like they have no armor. Knowing that he would not stand more than one blow by the beast, he chants one of his new spells. As he finishes the spell, his body seems to flicker in and out of reality. Kal then moves up to block the other ogre advancing on the party, shouting elven curses as he goes.
Ragnar starts to move towards Harp when he sees him fall, but then sees that the other ogre is charging the party. Hoping the others can fell the big ogre and help his battle brother, the dwarf chants one of the new graces granted him as he moves to intercept the second ogre. His body swells with power and he places himself before the ogre. "By the will of the Battle Lord, you shall not go further. Turn now or face your doom."
OODM: End of round. I need round 5 actions
From: Jason
Subject Round 5 actions
Could we have Ragnar placed a little farther back? Ragnar has definitely noticed that the ogres are quicker than him by now, and he'll want to make the ogre come to him. I'd prefer to have him in the 33 row, just in front of Kal, if possible.
I'd write up a turn IC, but I'm not quite ready to admit to myself that it'll probably involve an ogre laying some smackdown on Ragnar, so lets just say that Ragnar will attack on his turn. Hopefully the ogre has closed with him and he can use a full attack (since he gets 2 attacks now!)
From: Josh
Subject Round 5 actions
Kal will move in close and attack the thing.
From: Josh
Subject Is Harp dead?
OOC: Does someone need to stabilize Harp, or is he dead-as-a-doornail?
From: Mark
Subject Round 5 actions
Actually Ragnar is in a good position. He did not provoke any AOO. He will have to let the other guy go first, becuase of his lousy INIT roll, but he gets +4 to his AC so he should be in the 24-26 range, plus he has the bonus HP from the spell. He then just takes a 5 foot step and gets his two attacks.
From: Mark
Subject Is Harp dead?
No one but Harp knows. Someone would have to check to see how he is doing. If he is not dead as a door nail he is likely bleeding out fast.
From: Kevin
Subject Is Harp dead?
Harp bleeds gloriously.
From: Jason
Subject Round 5 actions
In this case, I think Ragnar and I are in agreement... that is, Ragnar would want the ogre to come to him, since that seems like it would give him a timing advantage IC. And OOC, if he's farther back the ogre has to take a move action to close with him instead of a full attack. That said, its no big deal if we leave things as they are. Just wanted to explain what I was thinking.
Healing, Harp falls, Information, round 5
Subject Info
Allistair can Summon Nature's Ally?? Or do you mean Summon Monster?
From: Karl
Subject Round 5 actions
Salix is shocked to see Harp fall. Furious, he hurls the flame in his hand at the remaining Ogre, (round 4 action written below) then hurries to his friend's side already chanting the prayer for healing grace from his god. (Rnd 5 action CLW on Harp).
(OOC - This shouldn't dispel Produce Flame, right? He should be able to throw the flame in his hand again next round, if the ogre is still alive, right?)
From: Mark
Subject Info
All of the summoning spells behave the same. I did the Natures Ally spell wrong in the Testing Grounds, and the Summon Monster spell acts just the same. They are effectivly the same spell, it is just the creature list that varies.
From: Mark
Subject Info
As far as I can tell he can summon the flame anytime during the duration of the spell.
From: Porter
Subject dying
OOC: Can a dying person be stabalized with a healing potion?
From: Mark
Subject Dying
Yes.
From: Porter
Subject Character sheets
Any word on why Mund's character sheet keeps devolving?
From: Kevin
Subject Harp falls
Harp takes a small step forward, watching the creatures club. Damn this thing was strong. Making a quick move, slashes at the orgres neck, gashing it, but not killing it. He pulls, reverses, and swings lower, but his sword bounces of the chest plate.
That seemed to have gotten its attention. Harp sees the huge club raise up and come crashing down at him. Harp tries to dodge out of the way, but the club catches him on the shoulder, crushing it. Grimacing in pain, Harp tries to move a bit but completely misses the return swing of the club. It crashes into his head, sending him falling to the ground, knocked senseless.
Harp's mind screams at his body. Get UP!!! This thing is going to finish you off!!! But his body was not responding. Oh no, he was going to go see Hieronious, and he was going to do it having failed to beat the ogre. He had failed the Battle Lord. As his mind fades, his soul quails at the thought of having failed.
From: Mark
Subject Character sheets
I am working on it. It will be tonight.
From: Josh
Subject round 5 actions
Kal watches Harp fall, and charges the ogre, hoping to distract him from finishing Harp off.
OOC: (I forget what the charge rules are, but I mean charge. Something like +2 to attack, -2AC)
From: Mark
Subject Round 5 actions
Charge L7? I hope so since L1 is dead.
You can charge as long as you can more in a straight line with no one in the way. You must move more than 10 feet and up to twice your move rate.
From: Kevin
Subject Time stop
Mark, how did we miss Round 4?
It looked like we went straight from 3 to 5.
From: Jason
Subject Time stop
The subject was round 5, but the actual email said it was round 4.
From: Mark
Subject Time stop
We just did round 4. I asked for round 5 actions.
Damn those time stopping mages. ;)
From: Mark
Subject Round 5
Round 5
Initiative: Ran (23), Surin (22), Harp (21), Mund (17),Ogres(15), Allistair (12), Salix (10), Kal (6), Ragnar (2),
Most of the party shakes off the shock of Harp's falling in combat. Most turn to face the last ogre. Ran moves to intercept the creature and block its way to the fallen 1/2 orc. As the creature continues its charge it stumbles (AC16, 18+13=31, hit, damage 15) and falls to the ground face first, skidding to a stop just in front of Ragnar. A small hand axe is sticking out of the back of its head. Surin, who is now visible, pulls another axe and yells "Pick on someone your own size next time."
The party stares for a second in disbelief when the halfling turns and shouts "Help Harp damn you." Salix is at the 1/2 orcs side in seconds, already chanting the healing prayer. Laying his hands on Harp he feels a faint heart beat and a shallow breathing. As he finishes his prayer he feels the heart beat become a bit stronger and the breathing a bit easier. Harp's eyes open for a second and give a grateful look at the 1/2 elf and then he falls unconscious again.
OODM: End of fight. I need new actions.
From: Mark
Subject healing
I don't think I said how much Harp got healed. It was for 6 points.
From: Karl
Subject Healing
"He's alive but only barely! Ragnar, can you help him!" Salix yells. "Ran, Allistair, see to Mund!"
From: Karl
Subject Healing
How low did Harp get?
From: Kevin
Subject Harp falls
According to my numbers, he was -5.
So his is just barely alive. But we can rebuild him. We have the technology, we have the science, we have the erector set.
From: Kevin
Subject Harp falls
Harp's mind slowly reaches out from the darkness, struggling to regain some hold on what had happened. His body felt broken in half, his shoulder crusher, his head like it was barely attached. He struggles to get an eye open, though he knows that even if the hordes of Hextor were marching down on him he would not be able to move. Instead of the ogre, he sees the face of his friend Salix, kneeling over him, his acorn symbol in his hands. Salix had saved him. A feeling of gratefullness fills Harps soul. He would be able to redeem himself for this failure, and his friend Salix had been the one to allow that to happen. His chest burning at the effort Harp wispers to the 1/2 elf "Thank you" and then he passes out again.
From: Porter
Subject Healing
Mund sees the orc smashed into the ground before his brother's magic fells it. He turns toward Harp, his hand already on one of the two healing potions he kept from the testing grounds. As he's about to pour it down Harp's throat, Salix arrives and magicks Harp up. He puts the potion back and turns his attention to the remaining ogre. Before he can even ready his axe, however, his companions drop it too.
"Ran,Allistair, see to Mund!" cries Salix.
"No hurry," says Mund as he feels the battle-strength leave his body. I'm hurt, but I'm standing.
Mund walks over and cheks out L6 and the surrounding bodies.
From: Jason
Subject Healing
Hearing Salix call out, Ragnar turns and runs back to where Harp was lying. Looking him over quickly, he murmurs "Fortune smiles on us, and Heironeous watches over him yet." Then, realizing that Salix must have cured him already, he says "I will have to thank Obad-Hai in my prayers tonight on behalf of my brother in the faith." With that, he clears his mind and summons his most powerful restorative blessing (sacrifice summon monster IV for CCW, then whatever lower level spells are necessary to heal Harp and Mund.)
From: Mark
Subject Healing
By the time Salix got to him he was at -6 so he is at 0 before any other healing goes on.
Danger, shapechange, giant, ID and stuff
Subject Harp falls
Kal's charge stops dead when he sees the ogre fall. He watches intensely as the healers do their work on Harp, staying back behind the group, out of the healers' way. When Harp finally speaks, Kal kneels, relieved, and says a quick prayer of thank you. When he finishes he rises quickly and looks to see if he was noticed. It seems that everyone was distracted by Harp, though.
From: Derek
Subject Shape change
Allistair is also relieved that Harp is not dead, but only severely injured. The blessings from Ragnar and Salix should have him up and about in no time. Allistair asks Mund if he's all right. "If you still want to be turned into a giant, it will heal you a little bit also."
From: Porter
Subject Shape change
Mund says "Sure. I wouldn't mind that. It will also make it easier for us to move these bodies around to see what there is to see."
From: Derek
Subject Shape change
Allistair casts Polymorph on Mund, turning him into a Hill Giant.
"This should last about 7 minutes. I suggest you move all the ogre corpses first. We'll move the heaviest stuff first, and make sure they are all really dead at the same time."
From: Porter
Subject Shape change
Mund enjoys looking down at the field of battle. Too bad that he didn't get a chance wrassle those ogres before they're dead.
Mund bellows down to Surin "Hey, little buddy! I'm gonna be rolling over these dead uglies. Wanna bring your sharp eyes over to see if you see anything I don't? I can easily give you a lift, iff'n you want."
From: Karl
Subject Shape change
Fine," Salix says. "Ragnar is attending to Harp anyway. However we must be quick. We can't let this delay our journey to the grove."
Salix moves with the others to check out the site, looking for anything unusual or of interest.
(OOC - is there anything that Salix sees that would lead him to believe this is anything *other* than a routine attack on a normal caravan? So far I haven't picked up any reason for Salix to justify moving on once the danger is past.)
From: Kevin
Subject Healing
Harp lays there, oozing but not dieing (sp?).
From: Mark
Subject Danger
Do you mean that Salix has not picked up any reason to not move on once the danger has passed?
From: Mark
Subject Giant
Just know that Mund will make a small giant. The new form is limited to 7 HD as per the spell description.
From: Porter
Subject Giant
So how tall is he?
From: Mark
Subject Giant
I will have to check when I get home.
From: Karl
Subject Danger
Well, I mean both. Is there some reason *I* am too dense to see that would indicate this is more than a common (if tragic) encounter? I mean these caravans travel knowing there are raids and bandits in this area, and two out of two times Salix has seen raids in this spot. So, if there's more to it, *I'm* not picking it up. Salix is probably smarter than me, though, when it comes to this area and woods travel, etc, in general, so if *HE* picks up anything that would let *ME* know he'd do otherwise than move on, please let me know.
Make sense?
From: Mark
Subject Danger
Yes.
So far there is nothing here that leads anyone to suspect that this is anything other than a normal raid from the mountains along a well traveled trade route.
From: Kevin
Subject Giant
He is 7HD tall, it should be obvious. It is a new off shoot of the metric system.
From: Porter
Subject Giant
What is that in furlongs?
From: Kevin
Subject Giant
I think it is 2 stone.
From: Kevin
Subject Stuff
If Harp were able, he would want someone to look at the armor and club of the ogre that took him down. There was something not natural about that stuff. When and if he gets healed up enough to contribute this, he will do so.
OOC: Mark, Harp also has all of his own healing prayers left - he will use those to top off Ragnars if needed. Or, he can use them on Mund.
From: Derek
Subject ID
Allistair does have ID memorized, so have Harp ask away as soon as he's done with Mund.
From: Anthony
Subject Stuff
The ogres are killed off, and so Ran puts his weapons away before looking around. The bodies are still strewn across the field, and so he watched carefully, particularly the ones that had been "dead" before the battle began. He was no genius, but he knew not to completely ignore them.
He goes over quickly to Mund, as Salix yelled. "Alright!" he calls back before following Allistair over.
From: Ashley
Subject Stuff
"Sure Mund -- I already checked out those ones over there [OOC: "Over There" being the two lumps on the right side of the map], they're already dead. I got pretty far before that big one heard me and came barrelling after you all. Some might still be faking, though, so you're good to keep a heads up
OOC: Mark, the two "alive and faking" ogres were the ones that got up and were then killed, right? If not Surin will let Mund know which ogre he knows about that is still alive and faking
From: Porter
Subject Stuff
OK. I'm gonna be rolling them all over just in case."
From: Mark
Subject Stuff
Correct.
From: Mark
Subject Stuff
Ragnar rushes to Salix's side. Harp is still unconscious but alive. Handing him over to Ragnar, Salix turns to the others. "Allistair and Ran, see to Mund. Surin, you and Kal take a look around. See if there are any more surprises. I will be over in a bit to help. Call us if you need anything." Salix bends back down to see how the 1/2 orc is doing. "He'll live" the dwarf replies. "Give me some time with him and I'll have him fit to ride." Salix nods and heads over towards Mund.
As he approaches he hears Allistair talking about changing Mund into one of those ogre types so that he could move the bodies away. Salix nods approval but warns that they must be on the road again soon. Mund seems eager and Allistair chants his spell and lays his hands on his brother. Mund's flesh starts to flow and he starts to grow (heal 7HP). His armor shifts with him and seconds latter there is a new large Mund looking ogre. He goes over and starts picking up ogre bodies and clearing them out of the way. Within minutes all of the bodies, human and ogre are well out of the way. After the seven minutes Mund stops and his body flows back to his original shape. A huge smile is on the barbarians face.
All the while Ragnar is working on Harp. He sacrifices his most powerful prayer for healing( heal 27) and Harp is soon able to stand and walk. Harp feels the bones move and knit back together. His shoulder pops back into socket and his vision clears so that he no longer sees three Ragnar's. He still has a massive head ache and his chest still burns.
Kal and Surin make a quick search and come up with a lot of stuff. In addition to the greatclub and the armor that was found on the leader of the ogres, they found a ring on one of his fingers. On the bodies and in the cart they find the following:
2 black pearls
1 heavy pick
1 large well made woolen tapestry
dwarven waraxe
1 spiked chain
1 trident
1 composite short bow
60 pp
600 gp
2000 sp
small dark wood shield
thieves tools
heavy steel shield
4 scrolls in a scroll case
ring
large greatclub
large hide armor
Most of the stuff looks like it might have been part of the caravan. Underneath the caravan Surin finds the body of a well dress man. The money and the gems had been in a large wooden box in a sack carried by the leader of the ogres. The other items had been in the wagon itself.
OODM: I have things to do tonight so I am stopping here. I will write more tomorrow night but you guys can do RP if you want.
From: Josh
Subject Stuff
Kal says to Allistar: "What would happen if Mund grabbed one of the ogre's weapons or armor? If he put it on, would it shrink back down when the spell's effects wore off?"
From: Josh
Subject Magic?
Kal will cast detect magic to see if anything in the pile is magical.
From: Kevin
Subject Time of day
Mark, what time of day is it now?
Magic items, where from, the goal
Subject Magic stuff
The ring, the great club, the hide armor and the steel shield all radiate low level magic. As do the scrolls in the case.
From: Karl
Subject Where from?
"Can we tell where these people were coming from? Or where they might have been heading?" Salix asks the group at large.
(OOC - Mark, what are the laws of the land regarding plunder from a situation such as this? Or in our case, basically . . . what? Scavenging? Salvaging? Looting?? Do we have a legal obligation to restore loot to survivors? Or is this a 'finders keepers' kind of thing? Salix would know, I should think, and I'm playing him as lawful/neutral so it's an important point.)
From: Mark
Subject Where from?
If there were any survivors a lawful person might try and return or help them.
If there are no survivors and since it is out in the wilds there would be no obligation to return the stuff. Sending a message to a local authority might be a nice gesture.
The uniforms and dress of the merchant look like something out of Undulant.
From: Karl
Subject Where from?
Well, I'm using "survivor" like in an obituary. Surely this caravan doesn't constitute the total bloodlines of everyone present. At least some of them are bound to have "surviving" relatives in either the city they came from or the city they were heading to. I think a morally "good" person in *our* culture might make some effort to find surviving family and restore their belongings. However, I think it's also very conceivable that the culture we are playing in would recognize no such act as a moral *obligation* even among the self-described "good" people. I'm just asking for clarification if that's the case. I think you answered the "lawful/unlawful" question though.
As for Salix, if it's not breaking any laws, he's not really going to raise the question. To him it's just "stuff". If it gets divided he'll take his share (the bulk of which he'll give to the Druid order).
He'll still try to find out where the caravan came from and make sure it gets reported when he gets to some outpost or to the Druid grove.
From: Mark
Subject Where from?
There is surprisingly little information about where the caravan is coming from or where it is headed to.
From: Karl
Subject Where from?
Just as well then. One less thing for salix to worry about.
;-)
From: Derek
Subject polymorph
Allistair thinks for a moment. "I don't think so. The effects of the spell are only temporary at best, so when the spell ends, everything reverts to it's original size and form."
From: Derek
Subject Magic items
Allistair will cast Identify on the ring. Tomorrow he will memorize ID 7 times so he can identify the other three items and the scrolls.
From: Mark
Subject polymorph
OOC: this is correct. Since he put the armor on after the spell, it would not be affected by the spell. However, his own armor is affected by the spell and grows and shrinks with him.
From: Mark
Subject Magic items
Does he have all the the 100gp pearls? Each casting takes a 100gp pearl IIRC.
From: Anthony
Subject Magic items and the goal
Ran looks at the equipment for a mometn then steps back, letting the good magician figure out what they are. He, after all, doesn't possess any magical abilities, so in this case he's no help. So, while they're still identifying the magic in the items, he goes off a bit ahead, to see if anyone else is coming, or, if somehow they missed some ogre or other enemy, if he could find whether or not there is any evidence for it.
(OOC: What exactly were they doing by the time they ran into the ogres? I wasn't here before that, so I'm uncertain exactly of, er... what the main goal was. That'd help, now that the immediacy of battle is done.)
From: Mark
Subject The goal
The party is riding hard to get to the main druid grove of Salix's order of druids. Just after the noon time lunch break the crested a hill and saw the remains of the attack in the valley below. This is near the Pass of Undulant, which is a pass in the mountains through the mountains to the south. The last time the part was along this way they found the remains of the caravan that was escorting Angelwings bride, Rochelle, to Schon.
Right now the main goal is for the party to get to the druid grove in about a week. They are less than 1/2 way there.
From: Derek
Subject magic items
Allistair explains to the group. "I have the ability to identify these magical items and scrolls, but I need a rare pearl worth 100 gp each time I cast the spell, which I currently lack. I might be able to read the scrolls as they are, but if they were cursed I would be at the mercy of the curse. I suggest we take them along with us, and when we have a chance to rest in a city we can identify them and then use them or sell them as we see fit."
From: Porter
Subject Magic items
"How about we try the stuff out and see what it does? Pass me that ring, OK?"
From: Derek
Subject Magic items
"That might not be a good idea," Allistair interjects hastily. "What if the item is cursed? You might go blind, weak and feeble, become a woman, who knows? Curses are never good, and magical identification is the only safe way around it."
From: Anthony
Subject Magic items
Ran watched the little disagreement and stepped forward. "In that case, if we decide to use them, we should have only one person try them all. And you're sure there's no other way to figure them out? How far is the nearest town, on our route, again?"
From: Josh
Subject Magic items
Kal laughs when Allistar suggests Mund might turn into a woman.
From: Porter
Subject Magic items
"Cursed? Who would go to the bother of making a magic item just to curse it? Toss it here, I want to try it out."
From: Josh
Subject Magic items
Kal's laughing pretty hard now.
From: Kevin
Subject magic items
Harp listens a bit as Mund and his brother talk about the items that had been deemed magical.
"Mund, even if you put the ring on you might not know what it does right away. This ring Anglewing gave me, for example, had almost no effect when I first put it on. Now, as some of you may have noticed, I hardly need to sleep and I don't have to eat much of anything. The magic on these things could be the same. Granted, that not very likely for that damn club or his armor, but that ring or scolls could be a different story."
With that, Harp collapses back down, trying to save his strength for the ride to come.
From: Porter
SubjectMagic items
Mund gets tired of waiting for somebody to give him the ring, so he walks over and picks up the club, hefting it experimentally.
From: Porter
Subject Magic items
Mund grunts as he lifts the club. Even with both hands, there's no way he could use it effectively.
"Who would make a magic club this big? Any of y'all ever heard of a magicker making stuff for ogres?
He puts the club down and picks up the ring. He looks at it closely.
OOC: How big is this ring -- human or ogre sized? Is it simple or intricate?
From: Mark
Subject Magic items
It is larger than would go on a normal sized hand. It might fit over the thumb or the middle finger.
It is fairly plain, made of silver. There are some engravings on it but they have been dented and smashed. It is impossible to tell what they were carvings of.
From: Ashley
Subject Magic items
"If they had any papers on them, we might know for sure, but so far Kal and I haven't been able to find any. I've heard of traders from Undulant getting goods from these parts and hawking them on the black market. I figure this isn't but a smuggling operation turned sour."