Into The Hole, Garyth Gets A Bath
Subject: Re: Moving on
"Is there an obvious way down or should we continue on to the temple in the mountain?"
In either case, Cadfael will dig through his pack for his flaming glove and slip it on his right hand.
From: Scott
Subject: Re: Moving on
Mission winces at Cadfael's glove's light. "I've got some rope here. And pitons."
From: Mike
Subject: Re: Moving on
Garyth rummages through his pack and produces a length of rope and a hooded lantern. Suddenly all the time he and the other Guard recruits had spent climbing ropes and rappelling down walls didn't seem quite so useless.
"I think we ought to investigate. This seems as likely as anything to be the entrance we're looking for."
OOC: Garyth has a +6 modifier for Climb (4 ranks + 3 Str - 1 armor) and +3 to Use Rope (+3 Dex)
From: Mike
Subject: Re: Moving on
Garyth pauses, a thought occurring to him. He turns to Farron.
"Have you any magics that might let us know a bit more about what's down there before we go ahead?" He thinks a moment more. "If not, I suppose we could tie the lantern to a rope and lower it down. At least that would let us see what's immediately below."
From: Raja
Subject: Re: Moving on
"I have a Light glamour that I could cast down the hole," Sa'id says. "Farron may have one as well. I also have a much more powerful spell of light, but unfortunately I did not memorize it last night."
From: Ty
Subject: The hole
After Rennik signals the all clear, the party gathers around the hole. It is about four feet across. On the west side of the hole, the brackish stream plunges down in a small, brown waterfall. You can hear splashing below, and you estimate that the hole only goes down about 20 feet. You can't see walls inside the hole, so the ground must arch out over a larger open space underground. The stream has obviously been dumping water into this hole for a long time. The fact that it has not filled up means that the flow continues on in some direction underground.
From: Karl
Subject: Re: Moving on
"I can cast light, as well, if necessary," Farron replies.
(OOC - Ty, can you have Raja (or someone) play Farron for a few days. I'm in the middle of moving and I don't want to slow down the game. My internet access will be spotty at best until next week. - Karl)
From: Ty
Subject: Re: Moving on
That's fine Karl. Good luck on the move.
I am just waiting on final 'we do this' type posts before I write the next turn.
From: Dan
Subject: Re: Moving on
"Well, there's no sense in standing here and looking down, who's going first?"
From: Matt
Subject: Re: Moving on
(OOC: No one happens to have blind fight do they?)
"I will lead the way," Rennik says, slinging his weapons onto his back and taking the rope. "I don't much like the thought of swamp dragons in the sewers, but I'd probably have the best chance avoiding it if there was one."
He pauses.
"If you hear screaming, don't hesitate to come down and save my hide."
From: Ty
Subject: Re: Moving on
A few technical questions.
Does rennik have a light? Is the party holding the rope, or have they secured it?
From: Mike
Subject: Re: Moving on
(OOC: Actually, Garyth has Blind-Fight. I think Mission does, too. Plus Garyth has that big modifier for Climb.)
Garyth secures the rope to whatever is handy. He tosses the other end into the hole. When Rennik announces his intentions to go first, he hesitates.
"Are you sure? I've spent a lot of time climbing up and down ropes in the Guard. And part of our training was fighting in darkness."
From: Dan
Subject: Re: Moving on
OOC -- Cadfael will be willing to loan his ever-burning glove to someone else, should their hands be larger than a 9-year old girl's (sorry, Rennik).
From: Matt
Subject: Re: Moving on
Rennik stares at Garyth for a moment, seeming to appraise the fighter once again.
"It would be hard for me to climb with a torch, or to use one with my bow. If you have training fighting in dark places, I will yield to your skill.... If I hear screaming, I guess it'll be my job to save *your* hide."
Though clearly uneasy allowing Garyth to descend into a dark hole in the jungle, Rennik holds his tongue. He is well trained, yes, but his lack of experience in the field worries the halfling greatly. Fighting with sticks with a blindfold is one thing, defending yourself against jungle monsters in a dark, damp corridor is something else.
From: Raja
Subject: Re: Moving on
Before coming down, Sa'id will cast Light on his staff. He will wait Rennik to give an all-clear before climbing down the rope after him.
From: Scott
Subject: Re: Moving on
Mission says, "You'll be third, Rennick." He grins. "I've been juggling knives and doing acrobatics in the dark since my breechclout days."
He grins sheepisly. "And the Mosshome is in the mountains. I know a thing or two about climbing."
He nods at Garyth. "If no one has any objections, I'll follow Garyth down."
OOC: Mission has a total of 8 ranks in Climbing...
From: Matt
Subject: Re: Moving on
(OOC: Rennik's got a +5 skill mod for climbing after his armor's skill check penalty, and a +4 to use rope. Not great by any stretch, but he would have volunteered to go first even if a simian was in the party... not that Cadfael's too far off.)
(... oh, btw, Cadfael, Rennik wants you to get a closer look at his 9 year old girl hands)
;)
From: Ty
Subject: The hole; down we go
While Garyth and Mission secure a line, Rennik stands guard over the hole with his bow. There is no sound but the gentle splashing of water, but the dour Halfling is suspicious and edgy at the best of times. Sa'id watches him and wonders how much is fear of the swamp dragons, and how much is fear of going into the hole at all. If he remembers correctly, the Halflings have no love of caves or confined spaces.
He turns away and speaks a few quiet syllables while passing his hand over his walking stick. It immediately begins to glow with a gentle light. Farron moves over to the mouth of the hole, and casts the same enchantment into the air just below the opening. The party crouches around the hole to see what lies below.
After all this buildup, it is fairly anticlimactic. Twenty feet below the opening, is a pool of the dark swamp water. The cave itself is ten feet wide at its base, and goes up ten feet in a flat wall before it begins a gentle arch to meet just below the lip of the hole. The lip itself is only two feet thick. The walls are made of cut stone, and leave no doubt that the entire passage is man made. The tunnel runs in a east west direction. The water from the pool seems to be draining to the west, but you can see no more than forty feet in either direction, so it is difficult to tell what really lies in either direction.
Garyth takes the glowing glove from Cadfael, and tucks it in his belt. He then begins expertly dropping down the rope into the passageway. It is clear that his claims regarding his climbing skills were no brag. The blood falcons are known for such rapid strike tactics as repelling down walls in the dark, and his time training with them must have taught him some of their skill.
When he reaches the bottom of the rope, he pauses for a moment then drops into the pool. He nearly disappears from site, and standing fully erect only his head and shoulders are above water. "It wouldn't make a very convenient path, it's pretty deep," he says, looking around. "That is, even if this is the 'underground path' the others spoke of."
Raising Cadfael's glove above the water, he peers off to the east for a moment. "No, wait. There might be a way to get above the water if we go east. I think I can see rocks over there down the tunnel. Maybe they are damming the water and making this pool." He looks up at the party. "What do you think?"
Rennik's Dilemma, Splitting Up?
Subject: Re: The hole; down we go
Mission takes hold of the rope and drops easily down into the hole.
"No one should be alone in the dark." Mission sniffs, still hanging onto the rope. "But you're welcome to your bath, Garyth. I think I'll keep my feet on solid ground as much as I can."
Ty, are there any hand holds on the wall? Anything that would help Mission climb sidewise to avoid dropping into the pool of water? His intention is to make for the rocks that Garyth saw.
From: Mike
Subject: Re: The hole; down we go
Garyth silently curses as he hits the water. It's a good thing that he has Cadfael's glove, as his own lantern's wick is likely to be soaked. Holding the glove aloft, he waits for the rest to descend before heading toward shallower water.
OOC: I won't have a computer at work until next week, so I'm only going to be able to get online before and after work. Sorry, guys.
From: Matt
Subject: Re: The hole; down we go
Rennik looks into the hole with a frown. If he had gone first, he would have disappeared beneath the surface of the water. If he had held onto the rope, he could have climbed back up, surely... but if he had let go, he would likely have drowned.
"How far are these rocks you speak of? It appears the depth of this water is too high for me to travel through... perhaps the rocks and the dammed water are there to prevent halflings entry? With their halfling soul slaves, they must be conscious of our size differences and our willingness to rescue our kin."
His brow furrows. "Is there a way across that you can find, friend Mission, that does not require a swim with full gear?"
From: Dan
Subject: Re: The hole; down we go
Cadfael will quietly let the others do the exploring and keeps an eye out for nasties that may be lurking above ground.
From: Ty
Subject: Re: The hole; down we go
It might be possible to swing over and grab onto the cut stone wall, but it would not be easy (DC20).
From: Ty
Subject: Re: The hole; down we go
Garyth believes the rocks to be no more than 60 or 70 feet away. In the tunnel itself, there is no other path east except through the water. It may be possible to climb sideways using the cut stone walls of the tunnel as handholds, but it would be very difficult.
From: Matt
Subject: Re: The hole; down we go
Might the DC go down if Garyth were to walk the end of the rope toward the wall and secure it with his body weight as Mission and Rennik climbed down?
If anything, Rennik could use the wall as handholds to support his kicking legs for the swim across... sorta like holding onto the edge of a pool.
From: Ty
Subject: Re: The hole; down we go
Yes, Garyth could use the rope to help people get to the wall, but climbing sideways for 60 feet will still be tough. Using the wall as handholds while you swim would be much easier, say -5 to the swim DC.
From: Matt
Subject: Re: The hole; down we go
Hm. That's not really gonna help, seing as Rennik has a -14 to Swim with all his gear on. No manner of reduced Swim check is really gonna work for him.
Just how hard is it to scale this wall?
Is it possible for Rennik to find some fallen logs or wood and lash together a makeshift raft for his stuff? That'd reduce his swim check to just a 0. Maybe he could tie the raft to his waste or something as he crept along the wall.
Or possibly could he find a log (or chop something down) to create a log to kick across the water with? So that even if he failed his Swim check, he wouldn't just sink to the bottom?
(see, this is where Rennik's weaknesses come out)
From: Tom
Subject: Re: The hole; down we go
> Maybe he could tie the raft to his waste or something as he crept along the wall.
Eeeeew.
????????Tom
From: Ty
Subject: Re: The hole; down we go
Yes, it would be possible to chop a log and throw it into the hole. It wouldn't take more than half an hour to do so. And, if he was floating on a log, the larger party members could tow him.
From: Matt
Subject: Re: The hole; down we go
If anyone could lift 126 pounds or so onto their back, Rennik wouldn't be above being carried. :)
Otherwise, he'd probably go for the log option and try to creep along the wall while staying afloat with the log. Though, again, he wouldn't be above a little push or tow. He was raised in a forest, not on a river... grumble, grumble...
Damn friggin sitting friggin pools of friggin water...
(next time Rennik goes anywhere, he's packin' a set of upper arm floaties, damnit.)
From: Dan
Subject: Re: The hole; down we go
Why don't we wait and see if this is even where we want to be first? Cadfael can carry him and be under a heavy load but if we came across something both of us would be useless. Not to mention that if he drops him Rennik's boned.
From: Ty
Subject: Re: The hole; down we go
Let me know what your final plan is.
From: Matt
Subject: Re: The hole; down we go
Rennik shuffles his feet impatiently.
Garyth and Mission are in the tunnel, chest deep in water. Cadfael has chosen to stay above ground while the other two scout ahead. Sa'id seems ready to drop down the hole, as well, but Farron seems undecided.
The halfling feels helpless, but he knows he would be even moreso in the hole if they were attacked.
"Perhaps we should split up for a time," he says to Cadfael, then turns his attention down the hole. "Garyth, until we know what lies ahead, I agree with Brother Cadfael's suggestion that we not commit ourselves entirely. If you, Mission and Sa'id plan to scout ahead, I think Farron, Cadfael and I should stay above ground."
"If we are attacked, we will call for your aid, and I hope you would do the same. While we wait for you to report back, I will cut a log for myself to float on so I do not sink to the bottom."
"Do you think this plan sound?"
(OOC: Compromise? Sound good to everyone? Even to the "puppet with no strings" Farron who's standing their idly until Raja, aka Stromboli, makes Pinnocchio dance?)
From: Raja
Subject: Re: The hole; down we go
Farron and Sa'id nod in unison. "Why yes," they say in chorus, "That works well."
;-)
[OOC: I agree, scouting the tunnel is a good idea.]
From: Mike
Subject: Re: The hole; down we go
Garyth begins to agree with Rennik's plan almost before thinking about it. But if this expedition has done nothing else, it has taught him that rushing ahead is dangerous.
He calls up to Rennik. "We do need to see what's ahead, so we will scout ahead a little way. But I don't think we should go too far. So far, splitting up has not had good results for us."
He will accompany Mission and Farron across the pool, but will not proceed out of earshot of the remaining party members.
Mission the Salty, Exploring
Subject: Re: The hole; down we go
OOC: Actually, Mission is hanging onto the rope still. My intention (unexpressed, so I call upon the mercies of the DM here), was to have him go halfway down the rope, and survey the area that Garyth was in for a dry patch somewhere. That's what my post about Garyth keeping his bath to himself was all about.
Mission will push off the wall, and attempt to jump to the cut stone wall in an attempt to stay dry.
From: Tom
Subject: Re: The hole; down we go
Is Mission made of magnesium or something? :)
Tom
From: Scott
Subject: Re: The hole; down we go
Sodium.
From: Raja
Subject: Re: The hole; down we go
Sodium and water react pretty explosively. Are you sure that's what you want to be made of?
From: Scott
Subject: Re: The hole; down we go
:shakes head:
You're SURE that Sa'id's poor sense of humor isn't mirrored somehow. . .?
:)
From: Dan
Subject: Re: The hole; down we go
Cadfael's fine with this plan.
From: Ty
Subject: Re: The hole; down we go
He is AWFULLY fastidious for a heterosexual man.
From: Scott
Subject: Re: The hole; down we go
He doesn't like to get wet, and he's not all fired up about jumping into what amounts to an age-old chamber pot.
From: Raja
Subject: Re: The hole; down we go
A dull and humourless life is mine.
From: Ty
Subject: Re: The hole; down we go
One last question. Is sa'id exploring the tunnel with garyth and mission?
From: Ty
Subject: The hole; Exploring
Garyth waits for the others to join him, will standing shoulder deep in swamp water. Thankfully, there is no sewage, the last sewage having been drained from these tunnels centuries ago, but the stagnant jungle runoff is nearly as bad. On the plus side, there doesn't seem to be anything... alive, in the water. Nothing that he can see, anyway. On a whim, he stuffs the glowing glove half under his helmet, to get it above the water and out of his hands.
Mission waits for Garyth to move over to one side of the tunnel, taking the end of the rope with him. The monk then shimmies down the line and tries to jump over and grip the wall to stay above the water. Unfortunately, the slimy stones are much slicker than they appear, and he is unable to get hold. He clings to the wall for a second, then slides down it into the water. Now that he has a closer look, he realizes the wall would be all but impossible to climb without risking falling constantly.
Sa'id follows once Mission is off the rope. He does not even try to stay dry, and just drops into the water right up to his neck. The small viper he carries with him sits coiled on top of his turban.
Once the three are together, they begin moving east along the flooded tunnel. There is plenty of light coming from Garyth's glowing glove, and from Sa'id's glowing staff, so the east end of the pool comes into view quickly. It looks like the rocks that dam up the water go up in a gentle slope. If someone climbed up on them, there might be a way to get over them to the east side of the pile, and continue on on dry land. The group stops about twenty feet from where the rocks come out of the water, but can't see the top of the pile. "Someone will have to climb that pile if we are to see a way through," says Garyth.
From: Mike
Subject: The hole; Exploring
Garyth thinks for a moment. He turns to Mission.
"This calls for caution. You have the best eyes of the three of us. I'd recommend we make our way to the base of the rocks, you in the middle with me and Sa'id flanking you. You can take a look over the top and we will provide you with cover if it becomes necessary." He looks toward the rocks, then back at the other two. "What do you think?"
Zombies!
Subject: Re: The hole; Exploring
Mission nods absently. Then he looks at Garyth, raising an eyebrow. "I thought you gave Rennick your bow. How are you going to provide cover?"
He shrugs. "Take my crossbow, and some bolts. If I'm attacked, I'll give a yell. Anything that is set to ambush us here is going to have pretty easy pickings, stuck as we are between the dark and this pool of water. There's no easy avenue of escape."
Mission indicates the slope of rocks with a nod of his head. "The Path is not straight, nor is it soft. Up I go."
He will creep up the rocks as stealthily as possible-painfully aware that Sa'id's staff and Cadfael's glove have probably already given them away to any would be attackers at the top of the pile of rocks. Best to keep his ears open, maybe hear the attack before it came.
Sand take him, he hated walking around wet. No matter how slowly or carefully he moved, his boots seemed to slap and squelch on the surface of the rock.
Mission will keep to the sides of the tunnel, using the wall to help him climb.
From: Raja
Subject: Re: The hole; Exploring
Sa'id can't get the cold out of his mind. He tries running through some of his mental relaxation and focus exercises, but to no avail. He finds himself wishing he'd memorized Endure Elements, though for a very uncharacteristic split second he can't even remember whether or not the spell is in his spellbook. This was about as far from the warm sun and packed sands of home as he could get. His years at the wizards' school in Nesalin had been relatively sheltered, but now he was truly in strange territory. Jungle? Cold, clammy underground pools? Nothing like this would be found on Ammar, certainly not during the day. Perhaps at night, in the deep desert, it might be colder...
Sa'id begins to shiver, hoping silently that a couple of Prestidigitation glamours will be able to dry him off quickly. As he pushes his way through the water, though, the shock gradually subsides and Sa'id finds himself more able to tolerate the chill. Making sure not to lose sight of Mission, he follows the monk forward.
In the back of his mind, the gears begin turning again, helping to distract Sa'id from the cold still further. Rennik's words about Cadfael and the priest's reaction at seeing Pelor's symbol in this ancient place tweak Sa'id's memory, and something falls from its depths. When they had found Elise's man poisoned in the road, Cadfael had... exploded. And again in the tower. Sa'id's mind churns away at each piece of information in turn. When not under duress, Cadfael was warm and not quick to anger. He was grappling with... something. Perhaps he could sense the evil that linked their enemies together, and it unsettled him. Or perhaps he could not sense it consciously, but it affected him nonetheless. It might help to talk to the priest, and Sa'id resolves to do so as soon as possible.
Sa'id peers ahead, but can't make out anything beyond Mission. Anxiously, he awaits the monk's all-clear.
From: Ty
Subject: The Hole; Undercurrents (surprise)
Mission moves cautiously toward the pile of rock blocking the tunnel with Sa'id and Garyth flanking him, and a bit behind. When he gets about ten feet from the pile, something about the stone clicks in his mind, and he turns to Sa'id, "Doesn't that broken rock look a bit recent to you? There's no slime on-" He stops quickly, lurching forward as if he tripped on something.
Mission begins a yell, then disappears under the water. Garyth draws his sword, but before he can begin to look for an enemy, he too disappears beneath the surface. Sa'id backs away, but in this deep water, he moves so slowly, and then he can feel cold hands on his thinly clad ankles, and something irresistible yanks him into the cold and dark.
The group waiting above sees and hears nothing.
[The rest of this encounter I will only accept turns from the three players in the tunnel. However, if one of the players can draw the attention of those above in some way, then they can begin taking turns as well.]
[Surprise round, next round initiative order is garyth, zombie1, zombie3, zombie4, zombie5, sa'id, mission, zombie2, zombie6]
Mission can feel cold hands all over his body. He opens his eyes for a second, trying to get his bearings, but the disgusting swamp runoff stings his eyes and blinds him. Even without his eyes, he can tell a few things. There are at least two sets of hands clutching at him and trying to hold him under but he is able to push both away. [grapple attack 20 vs touch attack ac 10(flat footed); grapple hit; opposed checks mission 16/zombie 2; grapple failed][second grapple attack 7; miss] He pushes off the bottom hard and his head bursts back up above the waterline.
Garyth is also struggling to escape for a pair of undead arms. [grapple attack 20 vs touch attack ac 10 (flat footed); grapple hit; opposed checks Garyth 21/ zombie 6; grapple failed][second grapple attack 9; miss] He too is able to escape and get his head above water.
Sa'id is not so lucky. As he backs away, two sets of hands grab his ankles and yank him under. In seconds two cold and heavy bodies cover his, holding him down on the floor of the tunnel, and squeezing the air out of him. If he can't break away quickly, he will drown. [Grapple attack 13 vs touch attack ac 10 (flat footed); grapple hit; opposed checks Sa'id 10/ Zombie 11; grapple hit, Sa'id pinned][Second grapple attack 15; hit; opposed checks Sa'id 2/ zombie 12; Sa'id pinned]
Garyth and Mission look at each other for a second as they both resurface. They do not see Sa'id return to the surface. Unfortunately, the continuing attacks from the zombies below them demand their attention.
[Ok. Two zombies are actively trying to drown Sa'id. Here is how it will play out. Based on the rules, Sa'id can stay underwater for 24 rounds (twice his constitution) in normal circumstances without drowning. However, these are not normal circumstances, since two zombies are squeezing the air out of him. Each round that Sa'id is unable to break free, he must make a concentration check to keep from losing his air (DC15). If he fails a check, he loses a number of rounds of air equal to the amount he failed by. So, if he can't break free, and he makes some bad concentration check rolls, he can drown very quickly. On the plus side, as a wizard, his concentration is better than average.]
[On to the first round of the fight]
From: Ty
Subject: Re: The Hole; Undercurrents (surprise)
Addendum.
Making a concentration check while pinned is a +5 DC penalty. So, the actual DC while Sa'id is pinned is 20. Since he only has a concentration skill of 5, this means he will start to lose air very quickly.
Just so you know.
From: Raja
Subject: Re: The Hole; Undercurrents (surprise)
Sa'id doesn't even have time to scream as the zombies grab him and pull him down to the bottom of the pool. His acute awareness of the cold returns, and panic momentarily blots out all thought. The frigid, rotted bodies pressing down on him don't help his concentration, either.
He takes a brief instant to force himself to calm down. Thinking more clearly now, he is glad not to have had time to scream -- no screaming means more air. He doesn't open his eyes, but he can tell that his staff is still glowing, pressed against him as it is. If only he could release it and allow it to float to the surface -- but then anyone looking for him underwater would have a harder time. A solution comes quickly, though. With a mental command, he sends his familiar Aldon floating up to the surface to circle around the area where Sa'id is submerged. Then he begins pushing against the ground with his forearms and knees, straining to break free of the zombies. He is careful to try and avoid expelling any air, focusing on his mouth and nose, consciously forbidding them to expel even the slightest bit of precious air. If only he wasn't so weak...
From: Ty
Subject: Re: The Hole; Undercurrents (surprise)
Second addendum.
If they choose to search for Sa'id, Garyth and Mission will need to make spot checks to find the glowing staff under five feet of black swamp water. Once they find him, if they wish to, they can use an Aid Other action, and each give Sa'id plus 2 to break free. Unfortunately, aiding Sa'id will leave them with AC 10 versus any ongoing zombie touch attacks.
Just want to let you guys know what the variables are.
Also, ANYONE, including zombies, attempting to move at better than 1/2 speed will need to make a balance check or fall down on the slippery stones. While you guys where moving cautiously forward, it wasn't as big a deal. But now in a fight, slipperiness will be a factor.
From: Ty
Subject: Re: The Hole; Undercurrents (surprise)
Sa'id is unable to give telepathic commands to his familiar. However, his panic as being drowned, and his panic at the idea of Aldon drowning, will cause the snake to swim to the surface. It will not, however, do a lassie and bring help to timmy in the well. :)
From: Raja
Subject: Re: The Hole; Undercurrents (surprise)
Whoops :-P
Thanks for setting me straight :) Hopefully Mission or Garyth will break free and shout something to the guys upstairs.
From: Mike
Subject: Re: The Hole; Undercurrents (surprise)
OOC: Ty, how many zombies are attacking Garyth, one or two?
From: Ty
Subject: Re: The Hole; Undercurrents (surprise)
Two. There are two on each of you.
From: Mike
Subject: Re: The Hole; Undercurrents (surprise)
Garyth surfaces with a roar. Quickly trying to assess the situation, he looks about. Mission is also struggling, but there is no sign of Sa'id. He begins to look for the wizard, but it is all he can do to keep the cold hands off of him. He can only hope that Sa'id manages to free himself. That, and call for help.
Drawing his sword, he shouts, "Rennik! Danger!" and attacks the nearest zombie.
From: Scott
Subject: Re: The Hole; Undercurrents (surprise)
OOC: Dang, Mission keeps rolling low on initiative.
Mission breaks free of the grasping hands, and quickly moves into Loon-Settles-In-Reeds, lightly balanced on the balls of his feet, ready to spring away.
Where was Sa'id? Mission feels his heart thump heavily in his chest.
More undead. Did that mean Anileth was near? He swallows, and changes his stance to meet his attackers.
Blood be Stone. Mission will attack the two zombies attacking him. (unarmed strike, flurry of blows. . .)
OOC: How deep is the water they're in?
From: Ty
Subject: Re: The Hole; Undercurrents (surprise)
As I mentioned, about five feet deep.
Zombies Round 1, Rennik Jumps In
Subject: Re: The Hole; Undercurrents (surprise)
Rennik sets to work chopping a suitably sized tree down to serve as a floatation device, blissfully ignorant of the quietly dying people down below who don't have sense enough to call for help
::hums while he works::.
From: Scott
Subject: Re: The Hole; Undercurrents (surprise)
Um. . . Garyth IS calling for help.
From your character in specific, too. . .
:)
From: Matt
Subject: Re: The Hole; Undercurrents (surprise)
Damnit! Another email I missed. Last I got from Garyth was a question as to how many zombies were attacking him.
That makes three I've defnitely missed this week. I don't know if AO-Hell is screening them out or what.
Could someone forward that along?
From: Scott
Subject: Forwarding Garyth's 'Help!'
Garyth surfaces with a roar. Quickly trying to assess the situation, he looks about. Mission is also struggling, but there is no sign of Sa'id. He begins to look for the wizard, but it is all he can do to keep the cold hands off of him. He can only hope that Sa'id manages to free himself. That, and call for help.
Drawing his sword, he shouts, "Rennik! Danger!" and attacks the nearest zombie.
From: Matt
Subject: Forwarding Garyth's 'Help!'
(OOC: The email gods want you to die, Sa'id... just so you know)
Rennik hears Garyth's scream from the pit and springs to action. Closing one eye, Rennik drops his pack and gear on the ground, leaving everything that would weigh him down in the water except for his armor and his dagger. He puts the dagger between his teeth and slides down the rope into the water with a splash.
When he surfaces, he'll open his closed eye, which would be at least ten seconds or so more accustomed to the darkness - a trick he learned can sometimes mean the difference between life and death.
Once in the water, he'll swim toward Garyth and Mission, dagger still between his teeth. When close enough, he'll draw his dagger and attack the nearest zombie.
From: Ty
Subject: The hole; undercurrents 1
[initiative order is garyth, zombie1, zombie3, zombie4, zombie5, sa'id, rennik, mission, zombie2, zombie6]
Garyth pushes away the momentary panic at not seeing Sa'id surface. Flailing about looking for the wizard while dodging two zombies won't help anyone. So, instead, he decides to destroy his own monsters first, then help when he can. After shouting to Rennik above, he waits for a zombie to try and grab him, then feeling a hand on his leg, plunges his sword into the water where he thinks the zombies body is. [Attack 19, hit; hidden enemy roll 38%, hit; Damage 10] The attack strikes home, and the zombies hand twitches once on his leg, then goes still. [Zombie 1 killed. I rolled HP for each zombie, and zombie 1 had by far the fewest HP, though he had the best initiative roll. Poor zombie 1]
Mission hears Garyth's shout of triumph as he kills the first zombie, but before he can say anything in return, two zombies burst up out of the water and attack. Clearly, the remaining zombies have given up on trying to drown the party. [Zombie 3 slam 10; miss][zombie 4 slam 22, possible critical, threat roll 10, crit failed, hit; damage 6] The first zombie is easily sidestepped, but the water slows Mission's normally graceful movements, and the second zombie brings both heavy arms down across his shoulders, nearly breaking his collar bones.
Under the water, Sa'id is still struggling with his two foes. He attempts to get leverage on the bottom of the tunnel to push the zombies off him, but keep concentrating on holding his breath at the same time. [concentration roll 25; 1 round of air lost, no additional rounds lost] [opposing grapple roll 17 / zombie roll 9; breaks free] With concentration honed in countless hours of magical study, Sa'id is able to push away panic, and keep his heartrate down even as he fights the zombie. Shoving upward with all his strength, he feels the zombie's grip weaken, and is able to kick it away. The second zombie still grips his other leg [opposing grapple roll 8 / zombie roll 7], but with only one leg in its hands, it can't maintain leverage, and Sa'id yanks his leg free. If he can only stay free of them for a few a second more, he can get back to the surface.
Garyth yanks his sword free of the dead zombie just as a second zombie rises out of the water and attacks. [Zombie 2 slam 6; miss] He is able to easily block its clumsy attack with the flat of his sword.
Sa'id is desperately pushing off the bottom to get back to the surface when the last zombie tries to recapture his leg. [Zombie 6 grapple; touch attack 12 vs touch AC 13; miss] [Attack of opportunity, Sa'id roll 17, hit, hidden enemy roll 62%, miss] Sa'id feels the zombie grabbing at his leg, and thrusts his staff downward in a powerful blow. Unfortunately, with his eyes closed, it is difficult to aim, and the blow does not strike home. However, having escaped, he is able to push his head above water and take a much welcome breath.
Above, Rennik is reacting to the shouts by shedding his equipment.
[Round two after I get your actions. Also, cadfael and farron can act if they wish, since they too heard the shout]
From: Ty
Subject: Re: The hole; undercurrents 1 oops
Somehow I forgot to give Mission his turn!
So:
Mission directs a flurry of blows at the nearest zombie. [Attacks 13, 15, hit; Damage 8, 11] The tattoos on his arms flare with power as the punches strike home. The undead creature is shattered by the impact, and falls into the water in several large chunks. [zombie 3 destroyed]
From: Raja
Subject: Re: The hole; undercurrents 1
Air! The rank, stale gas that passed for air in this tunnel tasted as sweet to Sa'id as his mother's homemade ba'laawa [OOC: the Greeks call it baklava]. He gulps down as much air as he can, before shouting "Zombies! Cadfael!" Attempting to get Aldon safely back onto his turban, Sa'id allows himself to broadcast his relief at having surfaced to his familiar. Looking quickly around, he sees that the zombies have broken the surface. He flips mentally through his spell repertoire and quickly realizes that Halt Undead is the best choice under the circumstances, to make things easier for the group until Cadfael can get down the rope to turn the zombies.
From: Scott
Subject: Re: The hole; undercurrents 1
OOC: Can we get our hit point status? I think Mission is at 26 after the last round, but I'm not sure. . .
Father had told Mission once of Vicar Humility's descent into the the Paths of Sand and Shadow. How Humility had crawled through that hell that mirrored the Path of Stone and Blood on his hands and knees, sometimes awash in filthy rivers of water, set upon by demons of doubt and fear and anger. How Humility had won the day by silent passivity, contemplating the strength of Stone, the heat of Blood. . .
Mission concludes he is not quite yet on Humility's level-- he answers his doubt and enemies with his fists.
"Anileth!" he bellows, as he strikes one of the zombies down. "Where are you? PENANCE!"
Senseless, stupid, to cry in this darkness for her. He barely feels his cracked collarbones, as he turns on the zombie remaining in front of him. Some distant part of his mind remembers that Cale had mentioned zombies. . . mentioned them along with Elise, and that there had been a full party of men with them.
The marks on his legs and wrists thrum with his heartbeat. The heat of the Blood of the Path. Mission grits his teeth and attacks the zombie.
From: Mike
Subject: Re: The hole; undercurrents 1
The rush of adrenaline combat always brings pushes all thought of the cold from Garyth's mind. One enemy down, he focuses on the remaining zombie, trying to end this quickly so he can aid his companions.
Zombies Round 2, Farron and Cadfael Join In
Subject: Re: The hole; undercurrents 1
Hearing Sa'id's cry Cadfael wordlessly slides his mace back into his belt and swings his shield back across his back. He'll then grab a hold of the rope, climb down and make his way toward the rest of the group.
From: Karl
Subject: Re: The hole; undercurrents 1
Farron will let the two fighters take the lead and will then follow. On his way to the hole he will chatter for Jack to climb up on his shoulder, and once he's over the lip will tell him to climb onto the rope itself at least until Farron is able to get good enough footing to, hopefully, provide a dry shoulder or head for Jack to jump onto.
When he gets inside the hole, if he is able to discern what's happening, he will cast magic missile at the nearest foe as soon as he is able.
From: Ty
Subject: The hole; undercurrents 2
[Initiative garyth, zombie5, sa'id, rennik, mission, zombie2, Farron, Cadfael, zombie6]
Garyth turns to face his second zombie. Now that they are above water, they are not nearly as frightening. He smirks as he swings his blade in a wide arc designed to remove the undead things ugly head. His eyes widen a bit at the zombie casually swats the sword away, and moves to counter attack. [Attack 11, miss]
Mission is trying to keep his sore shoulders from being pounded on any further. The zombie he faces moves forward in another clumsy attack, and this time Mission is able to easily avoid it [zombie 4 slam 4, miss].
One of Sa'id's zombies comes bursting out of the water, and leaves the wizard stunned. The zombie he faces is wearing a perfectly preserved robe of scintillating blue. He immediately recognizes the robe as one given to field researchers at the wizards college in Nesalin. They are designed to be protective, and to endure the elements without rotting. There is no way to know how old the robe is, but the desiccated state of the zombie wearing it leads him to believe it is quite old. The zombie gropes for him, but he is able to dodge away from it even in the deep water. [zombie 5 slam 8, miss]
Sa'id begins casting his Halt Undead enchantment, but is immediately set upon by the two zombies near him. [Attacks of opportunity] The first zombie misses [Zombie 5 AOO slam 10, miss], but the second zombie, the one behind him, strikes a glancing blow on his back [Zombie 6 AOO slam, 20, hit; Damage 2]. Sa'id is still able to maintain concentration and complete his spell [concentration check 22 vs DC 17, successful]. The zombie in front of him, and the zombies still fighting Garyth and Mission. [zombies 4, 5, and 2 held]. Unfortunately, the zombie behind Sa'id, not being in his line of sight, is unaffected.
Rennik finishes stripping off his gear, and clenching his dagger between his teeth, jumps brave, but foolishly, into the water. He slides down the rope and into the pool, and begins trying to swim toward the fight. [swim check 11 vs DC10] He is able to make a little progress with a very energetic dog paddle style, but is not able to get to the fight this round. [Rennik is at -6 swimming, so he will have a tough time making progress at all. 3 swim skill -4 armor (double for swim checks), -5 weight. He can't really drown, since he only has to beat DC10, but he can have rounds go by where he doesn't move forward at all.]
Mission sees Sa'id hold out his hands and yell something, and then the zombie in front of him goes stiff. Mission dislikes magic, but he is not one to pass up an opportunity, so he uses this chance to beat the helpless zombie into bits. [damage 10, 9; zombie 4 destroyed]
Farron begins climbing down the rope, with Cadfael standing above him waiting impatiently. He gets into the cold water in time to see Sa'id casting spells, and Mission punching a zombie into pieces.
Cadfael stands above, yelling at Farron to get out of the way so he can come down the rope.
The only free zombie, the one standing behind Sa'id, attacks again. The zombie slams its arms down on his exposed back yet again [zombie 6 slam 20, possible critical, crit roll 18, critical hit; damage 8]. The blow is incredibly painful [Sa'id at half hit points], and knocks the wizard back under the water for a moment.
[zombie 5 and 2 are still held. Zombie 6 is fighting sa'id. If anyone tries to get to sa'id's zombie, they will need to make balance checks or slip and fall. Rennik is still trying to swim, and if he makes a successful check next round, will get into range with sa'id's zombie. Farron is at the bottom of the rope and in the water. Cadfael will come down the rope next turn. Check in with round 3 actions please.]
From: Mike
Subject: Re: The hole; undercurrents 2
Garyth growls as the zombie turns aside his attack. He starts to make his next move when the zombie suddenly stops moving. Startled, he turns to look at Sa'id, just in time to see the zombie strike him from behind. With a shout, he runs to his companion's aid.
OOC: Hope he doesn't fall over... He'll attack the remaining mobile zombie when he gets there. If he gets there.
From: Karl
Subject: Re: The hole; undercurrents 2
(OOC - I wrote that Farron would wait for the other's to go down the rope first. Even with Farron having the higher initiative, can't he wait until Cadfael goes down? Anyway /OOC)
Farron will get out of Cadfael's way and will cast Magic Missile, aiming all missiles at the still moving zombie.
From: Scott
Subject: Re: The hole; undercurrents 2
Even in a sewer, Mission could taste the stink of magic. The creature in front of him halts-- and Mission does, too. For only a moment. Then, disgusted, Mission shoots his left hand forward to grip the zombie's neck, then brings his right hand hard against the bridge of what's left of the zombie's nose.
No Anileth. No Promise. As the zombie's body sinks into the muck again, Mission grabs it and pushes it toward the pile of rocks. It may be that it has something on its. . . body that could be useful.
The zombie attacking Garyth had halted as well, as had one of the zombies attacking Sa'id. But the remaining creature pounded away at the mage, sending him under the water. Mission tastes the bitterness of magic in his throat, but forces his legs to start moving in that direction anyway.
Mission will attempt to half-swim, half walk over to Sa'id, and attack the zombie attacking the mage.
From: Karl
Subject: Re: The hole; undercurrents 2
(OOC - "There is no way to know how old the robe is, but the desiccated state of the zombie wearing it leads him to believe it is quite old."
So if the zombie has been lying in wait under the water, yet is still 'desiccated', can we assume that the robe is a robe-of-protection-from-moisture? Or maybe a robe-of-eternal-blowdrying? /OOC) ;-)
From: Ty
Subject: Re: The hole; undercurrents 2
Pre desiccated zombie. They get leathery, and when dipped in water, have a low absorption rate. Sort of like beef jerky.
From: Ty
Subject: Re: The hole; undercurrents 2
Mmmmm... Teriyaki zombie jerky... ::drools::
Cadfael and Rennik, Next Round Tomorrow
Subject: Re: The hole; undercurrents 2
Cadfael moves to come down the rope and then stops himself. They are deep within the jungle and it is no secret that they are here. After their encounter in the tower, the sound of Rennik's chopping and Rennik's meeting with Elise it's entirely likely that they're being observed right now. If someone were to come along and cut the rope they would have a very hard time getting back out of the well.
After a moment's hesitation he pulls out his mace again and begins to warily watch the trees that form a natural fence around the clearing. He will *not* be taken by surprise again.
From: Ty
Subject: Re: The hole; undercurrents 2
Sorry guys, doing training class today.
Turn 3 goes out tomorrow.
From: Scott
Subject: Re: The hole; undercurrents 2
AUUUUUUGGGHHHH!
:)
From: Matt
Subject: Re: The hole; undercurrents 2
Rennik struggles to stay afloat and still make progress toward the fight. The weight of the chain shirt surprised him as he hit the water - it was obviously not meant for use in the water and threatened to tug him under the water. In his leathers, he wouldn't be having this much trouble, and he cursed himself for neglecting to consider the extra weight and stiffness of his new armor.
Still, he was in the water now and couldn't back off. His only hope would be to help end the fight quickly, then scramble back up the rope to dry land.
Zombies Round 3, Something in the Jungle
Subject: The hole; Undercurrents 3
[Initiative garyth, zombie5, sa'id, rennik, mission, zombie2, Farron, Cadfael, zombie6]
Garyth begins fighting his way through the deep water, trying to get to Sa'id's remaining zombie before it can strike again. Unfortunately, he is much less cautious in his haste, and halfway to his target his feet slip out from under him and he falls below the surface for a few seconds before regaining his balance [Balance check 4 vs DC 15].
The two halted zombies continue to stand rigidly.
(Raja didn't send me an action for Sa'id, so I am taking this liberty)
Sa'id pops back up above the surface, spluttering and spitting swamp water out of his mouth. He knows that every time he tries to cast a spell, the zombie will just hit him again, and the pain in his back is terrible, so he just begins backing up, hoping to draw the creature closer to the fighters.
Rennik keeps up his ferocious doggy paddle, trying to get to the zombie. Unfortunately, the weight of his chain shirt is becoming a real problem [swim check 3 versus DC 10], and the small barbarian disappears beneath the water.
Mission sees Sa'id backing toward him, and begins hop swimming for the zombie that follows the mage. His balance is excellent, and he has no trouble reaching the zombie before it can attack the hapless mage yet again [Balance check 22 vs DC15]. Mission strikes out at it twice, his tattoos glowing, and hits it both times [Flurry of blows attacks 27, 18; Damage 7, 10]. Unfortunately, this appears to be a particularly durable zombie, and though the blows fling large chunks of its back away, it continues moving in its mindless drive toward Sa'id.
Farron moves away from the rope, and moves into position to magic missile the one still moving zombie. This being his first couple of steps in the tunnel, he is not prepared for how slick the floor is, and it takes him by surprise [balance check 2 vs DC 15]. His feet shoot out from under him, and he is instantly submerged.
Cadfael remains above, keeping a sharp eye out on the jungle around the clearing. He sees nothing, but does hear some fairly alarming grunting noises coming from the jungle to the north. It's far enough away that he doesn't think it's an immediate threat, but if the noises get louder, he may decide to get nervous.
The last remaining mobile zombie continues its rough lurch towards Sa'id [Balance check 17 vs DC15]. Even though its movements look awkward in the extreme, some ill fate keeps the creature on its feet, and it slams it into Sa'id yet again [zombie 6 slam 15, hit; Damage 5]. This blow is not as painful as the last one, but it is enough to send Sa'id reeling and off balance again [5 hp remaining]. Mission can hear the wizard choking on swamp water and breathlessly saying "help me" as he resurfaces. It must be like a nightmare, with the water keeping him from moving to escape, all his actions happening in a seeming slow motion, and the implacable advance of the undead thing as it strikes him again and again. Even with his distrust of magery, Mission can't help but feel a little horror at what Sa'id must be going through.
From: Mike
Subject: Re: The hole; Undercurrents 3
Garyth pops back above the water, spitting the foul water from his mouth. As soon as he gets his bearings he continues toward the remaining zombie.
From: Karl
Subject: Re: The hole; Undercurrents 3
Farron prepares to cast Magic Missile on the zombie attacking his friend, but he knows Cadfael needs him out of the way of the rope, so he moves to get into better positions. This move proves unwise as the slipperiness of the rock bottom of the pool sends him plunging under water. Just before he disappears into the murk, he sees Mission attack the zombie, chunks flying.
He struggles to regain footing and get his head above the water again. He will try to maintain firm footing, wherever he resurfaces, and will try again to cast magic missile, dividing the missiles among the remaining zombie targets.
From: Dan
Subject: Re: The hole; Undercurrents 3
The strange grunting draws Cadfael's attention northward. It doesn't sound humanoid, but it's too far away to be sure. It takes him a few moments before he realizes he's heading toward it and he returns to the opening of the well.
The cries of pain and anger float up from beneath the earth, sounding strangely distant to his ears. He gives the rope another long look and wonders again whether or not he should be climbing down to help his comrades and yet, he still feels strangely reluctant to do so. No matter, the grunting sounds are enough for him to convince himself that he ought to stay above.
Still wary he stays as still as he can, beads of sweat dripping into his eyes. Most of his attention is now Northward but he keeps an ear open for any sound from below that would indicate that his presence is needed immediately.
Zombies Rounds 4 and 5, Tunnel Diagrams
Subject: Re: The hole; Undercurrents 3
"Sand take you!" Mission growls at the zombie as it continues forward.
He will attack it again.
From: Matt
Subject: Re: The hole; Undercurrents 3
Rennik grits his teeth as his armor pulls him under the water. Sinking to the bottom, he'll kick off to get his head above water and continue splashing awkwardly toward the zombie attacking Sa'id.
From: Scott
Subject: Re: The hole; Undercurrents 3
OOC: I hope the other zombies don't wake up. . .
From: Ty
Subject: The hole; undercurrents (on hold)
I took Raja's turn for him last round, but I don't want to do it again.
Raja, I need you to check in before I do round four.
Thanks.
From: Raja
Subject: Re: The hole; undercurrents (on hold)
[OOC: Sorry, Ty. I was suddenly swamped with work. Today was crunch time, so I seem to be in the clear. Actually, I'm writing this from class. ;) You did what I would have done, which I appreciate. Thanks.]
Sa'id's thoughts are beginning to blur, and he can feel himself losing focus. The combination of the cold and the pain comes close to overwhelming his mental grounding. He sees Rennik and Farron come down... but where is Cadfael? Couldn't he just slide down and destroy all of the zombies with a mere gesture? Some help the gods were. Sa'id doesn't have time to think it through, however, as the zombie facing him takes another swing, knocking the breath from his lungs. "Help me," he gasps at no one in particular.
He sees Mission moving to his aid, and will try to get behind the monk if at all possible, keeping Mission between himself and the zombies.
From: Ty
Subject: The hole; Undercurrents 4
[Initiative garyth, zombie5, sa'id, rennik, mission, zombie2, Farron, Cadfael, zombie6]
Garyth quickly regains his footing, and lunges at the zombie. Though he retains his footing, his lunge is hampered by the water, and his normally skillful sword work suddenly looks clumsy. Off balance or not, his skill is still good enough to land a blow on the creature's back [Attack 13, hit; damage 8], and cut off one arm at the shoulder. That is enough to finish the thing off, and its body sinks slowly out of sight.
Zombie 5 continues to stand very still.
Sa'id uses the reprieve to move over to one wall, and clutch the stones while trying to catch his breath.
Rennik pops above the surface for a second, launching so far out of the water that he must have pushed off the bottom with all his might. Unfortunately, he is above the surface for only that one second, and drops back out of sight again almost immediately [swim check 4 vs dc 10].
Mission, seeing that the most immediate threat is gone, steps over to the nearest immobile zombie, the one with the nice blue robe on, and twists off its head. [Attacks 21, 13; Damage 10, 12; zombie 5 dead]
Zombie 2 strikes continues to do its amazing wax figure impersonation.
Farron, seeing that the other two zombies are dead, finishes his magic missile spell and directs all three missiles at the one remaining zombie. [damage 3, 4, 4] The zombie is riddled with holes, but remains on its feet. In fact, it immediately begins moving again. [Damage breaks halt undead affect]
Above, Cadfael moves a bit to the north, to try and get a better idea what is making so much racket. It is getting closer now, and it isn't just grunting, but making a sort of crashing noise too. Like something big smashing into branches. Cadfael estimates it is about 200 yards away, and moving toward the clearing in a sort of zig zag pattern, at least from the way the sound is moving. And whatever it is, it sounds bigger and bigger the closer it gets.
[Only one zombie is remaining, zombie 2, and it is badly damaged by magic missiles. Please send in actions for the next round.]
From: Karl
Subject: Re: The hole; Undercurrents 4
Farron smiles as the missiles strike home, but the smile quickly fades as the zombie begins moving again, made all the more horrible for the fresh ragged tears in the rotting corpse. Not dead, but surely damaged sufficiently that it won't be much problem for the other, closer, men. He moves carefully toward Sa'id to see how badly he is hurt.
From: Dan
Subject: Re: The hole; Undercurrents 4
The speed of the approach was impressive, so fast that Cadfael's first thought is that a rider must be approaching. But no, I horse could not move through the dense jungle so fast, if indeed at all. Then, quite suddenly, a thought pops into his mind. "What was it Rennik said about swamp dragons?" He wonders aloud.
Part of him still curious he kneels down by the rope, hoping to get a good look at whatever is coming their way before dropping down the well to join the others.
From: Matt
Subject: Re: The hole; Undercurrents 4
(OOC: I hope Cadfael has the presence of mind to grab Rennik's stuff before he jumps down the hole...)
A growl rumbles in the back of Rennik's throat as he plunges once again beneath the water. What he wouldn't give to get his feet back on dry ground again... even in a dark cavern underground.
Pushing again off the bottom, a little easier this time, Rennik will try to get closer to the fighting.
From: Mike
Subject: Re: The hole; Undercurrents 4
Garyth yanks his sword free of the zombie and turns to face the last one. He shivers slightly, whether from the cold of the water or revulsion at seeing the dead walk, but pushes thought aside and moves to intercept the zombie.
From: Scott
Subject: Re: The hole; Undercurrents 4
Mission will push the zombie he just destroyed toward the shore so that he can search it for clues later.
Then he will make for the still moving zombie to finish it off.
From: Raja
Subject: Re: The hole; Undercurrents 4
Sa'id will move along the wall away from the remaining zombie.
From: Ty
Subject: The hole; Undercurrents 5
Garyth moves toward the remaining zombie, this time easily keeping his feet under him [Balance check 18 vs DC15]. He whacks the zombie on the back of the head [Attack 30, hit; Damage 7], removing the entire top of the skull just above the mouth. The body collapses into the water and sinks.
Farron moves over to Sa'id and says, "How badly are you hurt?" Sa'id's wordless groan is a succinct answer to his query.
Rennik continues to bob in and out of the water, until Mission finally reaches him and pulls him over to the wall, where he clings looking like an angry drowned rat.
Above, Cadfael continues to monitor the progress of the approaching noise. It is moving very quickly, and he estimates it will be in the clearing in less than a minute.
From: Mike
Subject: Re: The hole; Undercurrents 5
Garyth lets out a breath as the zombie falls, the energy seeming to leave his body with the air. He looks around for Sa'id and, seeing the mage's distress, starts toward him. He turns his head toward the hole and shouts, "Cadfael! Sa'id has been wounded!"
From: Raja
Subject: Re: The hole; Undercurrents 5
"You don't say," Sa'id tries to reply, but breath is still hard to come by for him. Clutching his glowing staff, Sa'id leans against the wall. To distract himself from the pain, he runs through mental concentration exercises. However, as his control returns, so does his anger. He wasn't sure what exactly was keeping the priest, but Cadfael could have dispensed with these zombies with a mere gesture. Instead, he had nearly been killed -- and even Rennik, who couldn't stand with his head above water, had come to Sa'id's aid. Priests were obviously as fickle as their precious gods.
Sa'id will remain where he is, collecting himself and trying to calm down.
From: Scott
Subject: Re: The hole; Undercurrents 5
If these were the zombies Cale had mentioned, where were their masters?
"Sa'id?" Mission calls across the water, as he makes his way into the shallows. "All right?"
He will cross the water and help Sa'id and Rennick to dry ground.
From: Matt
Subject: Re: The hole; Undercurrents 5
While Rennik accepts the help, he acts much like a wet and shocked animal. He growls in the back of his throat and breathes heavily, staring angrily at the water and the rocks and the world.
"My gear. I left it up top." He gazes across to the rope. "I'll have to go up and get it. I won't be much good down here with nothing but a dagger."
From: Raja
Subject: Re: The hole; Undercurrents 5
"Thank you, Mission," Sa'id says as the monk helps him and Rennik to solid ground. "Again you pull me from jaws of death." He sits down on the ground, his staff in front of him, and draws his knees up to his chin to keep from shivering. At Rennik's words, Sa'id speaks again, and this time there is a hint of ice in his tone: "Let the priest bring your things down, if only to make himself useful."
From: Ty
Subject: Re: The hole; Undercurrents 5
What dry ground?
A description of the local is in order.
The front view of the tunnel gives you an idea of the shape. The blue is the level of water, and the black line hanging down is the location of the rope.
The side view shows the rope in relation to the collapsed area (grey rubble at the right side of the picture). Also, the waterfall coming in through the same hole you used. The current runs in the direction of the big black arrow, and that direction is west.
The collapsed area is stone rubble, and looks recent. It angles up sharply, and the top of the rubble pile is not visible. Someone will have to climb up to see what's up there.
From: Ty
Subject: The hole; decisions
Dan, are you just waiting to see what comes out of the jungle?
If so, there will be about 5 rounds for the people down below. Feel free to send in actions for those rounds if you wish.
I will write up the next turn when everyone has checked in. thanks!
From: Scott
Subject: Re: The hole; decisions
OOC: For some reason, I had thought the collapsed portion of the tunnel was more gradual.
Mission frowns. "The floor isn't rising up like I thought it might. Rennick, can you make it to the rope? I'll get the. . ." Mission swallows. The mage has a name. "I'll get Sa'id as close to the rocks as I can, maybe find him a place to rest."
From: Ty
Subject: Re: The hole; decisions
Well, you can certainly get to the point where only your feet are wet.
Helping Sa'id, Warthog of Death
Subject: Re: The hole; Undercurrents 5
Cadfael continues watching what is approaching from the forest. He feels the rope tighten as Rennik grabs a hold and turns his head down to him, although he does not take his eyes from North.
"Rennik, do not come up here, I will be needing the rope in a minute. But... Rennik, what does a swamp dragon look like?"
From: Karl
Subject: Re: The hole; Undercurrents 5
Farron moves over to join Mission and Sa'id. He will check Sa'id's injuries and try to see if there is any first aid he can give.
From: Mike
Subject: Re: The hole; Undercurrents 5
Garyth comes to Sa'id's side. A twinge of guilt comes over him for allowing his companion to be harmed. He does what he can to help the mage, but his skill at healing is limited to simple battlefield first aid. They really need Cadfael. Where was he, anyway?
But first things first. Garyth helps Mission move Sa'id over to the rocks.
From: Matt
Subject: Re: The hole; Undercurrents 5
Rennik will attempt to get to the rope, brooding and not talking to anyone. If he must, he'll ask for aid, but he'll give it a go on his own first.
From: Matt
Subject: Re: The hole; Undercurrents 5
Whoops! Scratch that... Didn't read Dan's email.
Turn coming in a sec.
From: Matt
Subject: Re: The hole; Undercurrents 5
Rennik freezes, hoping that he heard Cadfael wrong, then yells back.
"It's like a great big alligator or crocodile, eight or nine feet high at the shoulder, thirty or forty feet long! If you even think you see one, get down here!"
He then turns to Garyth or Mission (whichever is closer to the hole). "If Cadfael drops my pack down to you, could you catch it for me? I'm afraid it'd drop me right to the bottom."
(OOC: I'm gonna hope the answer is yes, and that Rennik will yell to Cadfael to drop the equipment down. If the answer is no, Rennik will make a dash for the rope and an attempt to climb up to get it hissowndamnself)
From: Scott
Subject: Re: The hole; Undercurrents 5
Mission will catch Rennick's gear.
From: Dan
Subject: Re: The hole; Undercurrents 5
Cadfael nods slowly. He'll then carefully reach over and grab Rennik's gear, gingerly pushing it over the lip of the well. All the while keeping as close a look North as he can, as if such a creature were looking directly at him. Once he's done he'll get ready to swing down the rope but won't actually do so until whatever is coming pops out of the clearing.
From: Dan
Subject: Re: The hole; Undercurrents 5
Wait wait wait. Ty, let's say that *is* a swamp dragon that's coming. Let's say it's hungry for, I dunno, man-flesh. Let's see it sees me drop down the hole or smell us down the hole. Could said swamp dragon reach inside the hole? In order to get at said tasty man-flesh. Based on Rennik's description anyway.
From: Matt
Subject: Re: The hole; Undercurrents 5
Yeah, just how big is this hole? Now, granted, if we got it in the hole, we'd likely pound it into dust... it's huge, and it wouldn't be able to turn around. But, I'm thinking it'd be too big. I'm not entirely clear on the size of the hole.
If Rennik thinks the whole is big enough for a swamp dragon to crawl down after them, he'd tell Cadfael to get in the hole, then direct the group to split up - half on one side of the hole, and half on the other.
From: Karl
Subject: Re: The hole; Undercurrents 5
(OOC - good idea. That way, while it's eating Farron the rest of you can pound it to dust. :-)
From: Ty
Subject: The hole and above; Monster mash
With the last of the zombie destroyed, there is little left to do down in the hole. Farron and Garyth get Sa'id mostly out of the water, but there is little they can do for his bruises. Mission goes over to the rope, and begins catching Rennik's gear as it falls down a bit at a time. The monk has amazing reflexes, even catching the weapons easily and always by the non sharp bits. He carries everything over to the rock pile for safe keeping. Rennik works his way over there as well by clinging to the stone walls.
Above, Cadfael finishes tossing Rennik's belongings into the holes, and goes back to watching the jungle. A few seconds later, the source of the grunting and crashing bursts out of the wall of trees. It is a creature unlike any Cadfael has ever seen, though on first glance it appears to be a giant boar. But, surely no boar every grew to this prodigious size. This creature is even bigger than a large bull, and stands almost seven feet high at its massively muscled shoulder. The mouth sports two ragged tusks that look capable of gutting a horse, and above them are two ill tempered reddish eyes that show no hint of intelligence. Most unusual though, is the creature's skin. It at first appears to be shaggy with fur, but a second look shows that it is actually covered in short, thick spines, like a giant hedgehog. In all, it is a ferocious looking thing, armed and armored for survival in the inhospitable jungle.
It enters the clearing and makes snuffling noises, as though scenting. Periodically, it roots in the ground with its tusks, pulling up clods of dirt and sniffing beneath them. It does not seem to see Cadfael? yet.
From: Dan
Subject: Re: The hole and above; Monster mash
OOC: Ha ha! Scott was right!
Cadfael heaves a sigh of relief before realizing that his is still above ground. Not the best place to be right now.
He slowly and as quietly as he can manage climbs down the rope. If he's noticed this will become as quickly as he can manage.
From: Karl
Subject: Re: The hole and above; Monster mash
Farron will continue trying to make Sa'id as comfortable as possible in the waterlogged hole.