Crashing the Party
Subject: Re: A jungle path; crashing the party
"If these are not Elise's men, we can't be sure that they are even our enemies. Firing arrows into innocent men-- I do not think that would be wise, Rennick, dark or not," Mission says sharply. He hardly believes his ears-- the halfling was mulling over whether to attack these men right out, not knowing their intentions, their motivations, their characters.
"Yes, we should definitely talk with the others."
Mission will then stealthily make his way back to the others, not waiting for Rennick.
From: Ty
Subject: A jungle path; crashing the party
Farron has a few anxious moments before he hears a quiet rustle and chitter at his feet. Jack climbs up his leg and takes a perch on his shoulder where he explains that he didn't see any big snakes, but he could smell them everywhere, and it is probably wise that he stay here for a while.
After that, there is only quiet. It becomes difficult to tell the passing of time in this incredible blackness. It seems like it has been hours by the time Rennik gives his hooting all clear signal, and he and Mission return.
Rennik quietly describes the tower, and the four men he saw. Mission points out that there is no way to know who they are, or what their motives may be.
[Waiting for discussion, planning, or any moves you want to take. Everyone except Raja please check in before the next turn. Thanks :)]
From: Scott
Subject: Re: A jungle path; crashing the party
Mission cocks his head toward the tower. "We don't know these men, whether they're with Leggy Dame, or with the Murrakat, or are brigands, or adventurers. Whatever we do, we should be cautious.
"I think that Garyth and Cadfael should try and speak to these men. As the most heavily armored of us, they should be able to bear the brunt of any melee better, should it come to that. If it comes to fighting, the wizards and I can cover Garyth and Cadfael with crossbow bolts and. . .magery." He swallows. "Rennick can try the hole in the wall-- if he can squeeze in, he can flank the men inside with his arrows and axe."
From: Karl
Subject: Re: A jungle path; crashing the party
Farron briefly confers with Sa'id quietly, then to the group he says quietly, "Well, they don't sound like a hunting party, and I can't think of any *good" thing that would bring them out here. (Though anyone coming upon us right now might think the same thing.) Still I don't see how we can justify an attack on them before we know more.
"But we are with the group in whatever is decided".
With that he and Sa'id will wait to see what everyone else thinks.
From: Mike
Subject: Re: A jungle path; crashing the party
Garyth nods. He whispers, "I can investigate, and having flanking cover would make me feel more comfortable. It's likely they'll hear us coming--I'm not the stealthiest of people--which will lose us any element of surprise. So we must be ready for action, perhaps without any warning." He looks at Rennik. "But we must also make sure not to get ahead of ourselves."
He glances at the tower again, and continues whispering. "Sa'id, Farron and Mission can take positions flanking the doorway, and Rennik can take the hole in the back. Cadfael and I will begin approaching the front door when Rennik is in position."
He looks at Cadfael. "Ready?"
From: Dan
Subject: Re: A jungle path; crashing the party
Cadfael nods in agreement. "I fear these men are not here on noble purpose, but you are right that we cannot take action until we know for sure. If we manage to get within crossbow striking distance I can pray to our Father for guidance. He will be able to tell me something of their intentions. If these men notice our approach, well, we shall just have to find a way to be diplomatic. Speaking of which, who speaks to the group, Brother? You or I? And what is our story?"
"Brother Rennik, before you head out it would seem prudent to offer you some protection. Sadly, I cannot offer you anything to turn attacks away, however," he smiles, "I do have something I think would be a little more your style. If you would have it, you may draw upon Pelor's might for several hours to come. Hopefully this will allow you to strike your enemies down with such force that they will not be able to raise a hand against you. Brother Garyth, I can offer you the same. Although, knowing that Pelor's healing causes you some pain I cannot promise that this will be any more pleasant for you."
From: Matt
Subject: Re: A jungle path; crashing the party
"I know not their motives. I know not their names. They are men of battle and have made camp expecting attack. They use the castle keep, but I do not know if they were here at the same time as Elise."
"Still, they are dangerous men. We must be ready to kill them if need be, quickly and without reservation. Talk is good, but it is better when your friends have arrows at your enemies' backs."
"I know nothing of this back room which you would have me use. It could be a closet, a prison cell, or sleeping quarters for more men. Before we decide its value, I will need to scout it out."
He looks to Garyth and Cadfael, furrowing his brow a bit.
"It is true you will be heard. I suggest that Friend Mission and I sneak as close to the building as possible, with Friends Sa'id and Farron offering cover from the edge of the woods in view of the castle door. If the back room provides an opportunity, I will take that. The two of you should make no effort at stealth, and come to the keep looking for shelter and a warm fire - as if you had lost the trail. Then you may speak, and we may cover you unseen."
"Brother Cadfael, I accept the blessing of your god, and pray that Mielikki will also smile on you under the canopy of these trees."
From: Ty
Subject: Re: A jungle path; crashing the party
OODM: Final plan, guys?
So far I have:
Cadfael will cast bull's strength on Garyth and Rennik.
The group will move to the tower.
Sa'id and Farron will stay in the bushes 50 feet from the door.
Garyth and Cadfael will pretend to be travelers and will walk right up to the front.
Mission will stay with the mages and cover with his crossbow.
Rennik will scout out the hole leading into the back room.
Anything else I need to know before I write up the next turn?
From: Scott
Subject: Re: A jungle path; crashing the party
Mission nods to Rennick. "I misunderstood-- I thought that the hole led directly into the tower. It would be best if you were to scout it out first. Perhaps we should wait for your signal again before having Garyth and Cadfael move into place?"
From: Mike
Subject: Re: A jungle path; crashing the party
OOC: Nope
From: Matt
Subject: Re: A jungle path; crashing the party
"That is wise. You, Sa'id and Farron should take positions while I check the back room. When I am certain the room will suit our needs, I will make the same call as before. If it does not, I will retreat to the forest line with my bow and make the call then."
He turns to Garyth and Cadfael.
"When you hear the call, approach the tower," and then with a wry smile, "I'd tell you to talk and make noise, but you seem to handle that well on your own."
Before his jab sets in, he'll disappear into the forest again on his way back to the tower.
From: Ty
Subject: Re: A jungle path; crashing the party
The party moves cautiously to the edge of the tree line, then circles until the front doorway is in view. On this side of the clearing, it is about sixty feet to the tower. Garyth and Cadfael wait for their signal, while Mission kneels and holds his crossbow aimed at the entrance.
Sa'id and Farron stand behind them, and a little to the side, ready to cast spells if needed. Sa'id is curious about the clearing itself. The tower is obviously very old, and no one is keeping it up. Why do trees not grow closer? He inspects the ground around the tower as well as he can in the dim firelight, but sees nothing that would explain it.
Everyone settles in to wait for the signal.
Alarm, First Contact
Subject: Crashing the party
The waiting group hears a quiet hoot coming from the darkness to one side of the tower. It is the agreed upon signal for "proceed with the plan". Cadfael and Garyth look at each other once, then move forward toward the doorway.
Mission takes a deep breath, and focuses his vision down the length of his crossbow bolt. It is a 60 foot shot to the front doorway, an easy shot normally, but the uneven and dim light will make targets difficult to separate.
Sa'id and Farron move a few feet apart, to give each other room to cast if needed. Other than that, there is little they can do at this point.
As soon as he gives the signal, Rennik scoots back inside the tower and stands by the makeshift door gripping his axe. At the first sign of trouble, he will bash the door down and enter.
Cadfael and Garyth walk toward the tower, trying to look casual, but only get about 20 feet before there is a gentle but quite audible ringing sound coming from inside the tower. Behind them, Farron hits himself in the forehead with the heel of his hand and whispers to Sa'id, "Alarm. Rennik said there was a mage with them. He has cast alarm outside the tower. We should have thought of that. A simple detect magic cantrip would have seen it. Damn."
[Rennik is inside by the door, and can hear the ringing, though it is a very non threatening sort of ring, like a handbell. Cadfael and Garyth are about 20 feet from the treeline, and 40 feet from the tower. Mission, Sa'id and Farron heard the ringing, and are all still inside the treeline. Everyone check in, please, even if it is only a "I stare at the tower". Tom, I need your actions in a private email, please.]
From: Scott
Subject: Re: Crashing the party
Mission will stay focused and still. He hopes the mages will too.
From: Mike
Subject: Re: Crashing the party
Garyth pauses for a moment when he hears the bell begin to ring. But it changes nothing, he wasn't trying to be stealthy anyway. He continues walking toward the door.
OOC: Tom should be on the list as of a few days ago. Are you receiving doubles of this email, Tom?
From: Karl
Subject: Re: Crashing the party
Farron remains absolutely silent, though he does run his finger reassuringly across a small, perfectly straight and perfectly smooth rod of iron in his robe pocket.
From: Dan
Subject: Re: Crashing the party
Cadfael jumps slightly at the sound of the chimes and takes a moment to collect himself before carrying on toward the tower. The plan has not changed in the slightest.
"I suppose this means we don't have to knock, eh Garyth?"
From: Ty
Subject: Re: Crashing the party
Btw guys. As I mentioned before, there is no actual door. Just an open doorway.
Just a reminder, in case it becomes important later.
From: Karl
Subject: Re: Crashing the party
But in the next second, Farron thinks to himself that it's actually a good thing they didn't do anything to prevent the alarm. That would surely tip off any mage worth his salt that there were other mages about, effectively blowing their cover just a surely as if they walked right up to the door and said "Howdy!".
From: Ty
Subject: Crashing the party
Cadfael and Garyth pause only a moment when the alarm sounds. Trying to act as nonchalantly as possible, they continue towards the doorway. At about 15 feet away, the scene inside becomes clear. A large man in splint armor is standing inside the room, about ten feet back from the doorway. In one hand, with the butt resting against the floor, is an exceptional looking halberd. He has a blank expression on his square face.
Behind him, and a bit to one side, is a man in plain gray robes. He stands with one bare foot against the wall in what looks like a sort of awkward position, though he shows no sign of discomfort.
There is a tense moment as each of you looks at the other, waiting for someone to speak...
Meet the Gray Man, What Now?
Subject: Re: Crashing the party
Garyth smiles easily. "Er, hello lads. The night's gotten a bit chilly and we hoped you'd have a bit of room to spare by your fire."
From: Ty
Subject: Crashing the party
The robed man raises a hand in a gesture of peace. "Greetings, travelers. I'm sorry that we cannot share this room with you, but we would be honored to provide you with any victuals you may need before sending you on your way again."
Almost at the same moment, Garyth says, "Er, hello lads. The night's gotten a bit chilly and we hoped you'd have a bit of room to spare by your fire."
There is another awkward pause?
[I am only waiting on moves from Mike, Dan, or Tom. So, I will be throwing out actions as they come in to me, even if it is one at a time. Play-By-Email in REAL TIME.]
:)
From: Dan
Subject: Re: Crashing the party
"We would be pleased to share a meal with you Brother, the night is dark, our path has been long and I would not mind hearing a new story or two. If you would have us off than we will be off, but surely you don't mind sharing some of the good cheer that brought us here?"
From: Tom
Subject: Re: Crashing the party
"I appreciate the offer, but I think it's best that you moved on. You can't trust anyone around here, and the sooner we're ALL on our way, the better." He gestures to a small pile of gear. "Is there anything you're lacking? We can give you some jerky, hardtack, arrows, or wine, if stores are low. Where are you bound?"
From: Ty
Subject: Crashing the party
After Garyth finishes speaking, the man in gray seems to consider for a moment. Then he Gareth over carefully, and shakes his head. "I can't say that I wouldn't like the company normally, but we've already had more than our share of run-ins with bandits on this trip. You're welcome to any supplies we have in surplus, and we'd be happy to share maps and advice about the road -- depending on the direction you're heading -- but we've been burned before. We won't be taken in again."
Given the number of evil beings heading east, it is quite possible that these men have already run into one or more unsavory characters as they travel. Garyth nods, and gets ready to reply when Cadfael says, "We would be pleased to share a meal with you Brother, the night is dark, our path has been long and I would not mind hearing a new story or two. If you would have us off than we will be off, but surely you don't mind sharing some of the good cheer that brought us here?" [Diplomacy roll 28]
Cadfael's words are seasoned just right, but the man in gray is already shaking his head half way through his speech. "I appreciate the offer, but I think it's best that you moved on. You can't trust anyone around here, and the sooner we're ALL on our way, the better." He gestures to a small pile of gear. "Is there anything you're lacking? We can give you some jerky, hardtack, arrows, or wine, if stores are low. Where are you bound?"
It is clear that the party will not be welcomed into this tower.
[waiting on dan or mike]
From: Mike
Subject: Re: Crashing the party
"We'd hate to be a burden on you, and we are relatively well provisioned. We're headed inland, toward the mountain. And yourself?"
From: Tom
Subject: Re: Crashing the party
The man smiles. "We're actually headed deeper into the jungle, believe it or not, to pick some rare plants. The heady life of the intrepid adventurer, eh?" He laughs wryly, clearly expecting you to commiserate. "What sends you to the mountain?"
From: Dan
Subject: Re: Crashing the party
"We are not bound so much to the mountain as we are the other side. There seems to be a strange infection and affliction of the mind that has taken some of the Chorrdath Halfling tribe to the East of here. In their desperation many of their bravest warriors journeyed out across the land, looking for some who could offer aid. Their need must be great if it lead them to approach Father Belstaff in Nesalin. He bid me aid the Halfing and his tribe and so I left shortly thereafter. The Halfling apologized for not being able to guide us further but assured me that his home was easily found. While on my way to the jungle I paused in Overlook and asked if there was anyone who could aid in me in my journey through it, as that seemed the fastest way to reach my destination. Brother Garyth here was kind enough to volunteer, which brings us to where we are now."
"I am sorry for the trouble you have had with bandits, Brother. We have had the good fortune to encounter little on our way here. If any of your company are wounded I would be more than happy to tend to them before we are on our way. It is dark times when you feel you cannot trust a soul, Brother, allow me this act of kindness and perhaps your faith in your fellows will be restored?"
Cadfael finishes with a warm smile, waiting to see what is said in response.
From: Ty
Subject: Crashing the party
Something about the way the man glances to the side as he describes going into the jungle for "rare plants" doesn't sit well with Cadfael, though there is no real reason to disbelieve him. When he finishes telling the gray man his tale, the man nods agreeably, if insincerely.
[where from here?]
From: Ty
Subject: Re: Crashing the party
The man in gray says, "Again, thank you -- but no. Good luck on your quest, and stay alert out there; something seems to have riled up every evil creature for miles. Apparently that includes feral halflings. We haven't seen any of them ourselves, thank the gods."
He waves. "Keep safe."
Then he gives you an expression that clearly means, go away. The fighter takes one step forward, and without changing his expression at all, suddenly looks menacing.
From: Mike
Subject: Re: Crashing the party
The fingers on Garyth's right hand twitch a bit as the fighter steps forward, but he doesn't move for his weapons. "No need for any excitement," he says, sizing up the man. "We'll be on our way. I hope you find what you seek."
He jerks his head back the way they came, "Let's go, Brother." He backs away a few steps before turning back the way he came.
From: Scott
Subject: Re: Crashing the party
OOC: Ty, can any of us out in the bushes hear the conversation?
From: Ty
Subject: Re: Crashing the party
Not really. You can hear bits of what Cadfael and Garyth are saying, but nothing of what those inside say.
Rennik can hear everything through his door.
From: Raja
Subject: Testing, testing...
I'm back now, and mostly recovered. Fortunately I appear to have done nothing noteworthy. :)
From: Ty
Subject: Testing, testing...
Didn't you get the email were Sa'id's long lost brother returns, but their happy reunion is shattered when it is discovered that Sa'id had been dating the girl his brother loved?
Oh, then their mother got cancer, and there was a wedding at which horrifying secrets were revealed.
From: Ty
Subject: Crashing the party
I am just waiting on Dan to say whether Cadfael wants to walk away, or wants to try and parlay further, before I send the next turn.
From: Dan
Subject: Re: Crashing the party
"Peace be with you, Brother"
Cadfael will follow Garyth back toward the rest of the group.
From: Ty
Subject: Crashing the party; can't get past the bouncer
Cadfael and Garyth walk back to the tree line, and the rest of the party waiting there. Mission continues to cover the doorway with his crossbow, but asks what was said. Cadfael recounts the conversation, and his belief that the man was being dishonest in some way.
After a moment of silence, Farron says, "What now?"
From: Ty
Subject: Crashing the party; what now?
There is a pause after Farron asks, "What now?"
Mission keeps his eye on the front door, and suddenly shadow fills the doorway. It looks like someone was moved up and is standing right in the doorway. He sees a glint of firelight on steel. It's probably the big fighter type that Rennik saw before. After a few moments, the shadow backs up.
"I think the big one is watching through the front door," he says.
From: Mike
Subject: Crashing the party; what now?
Garyth frowns. He whispers, "They know we're here, then." He thinks a moment. "As I see it we have two options: we can either back off for now, perhaps tracking them tomorrow, or we can go back and tell them our true purpose. The first would be safer now, but the second might be better in the end. If these are our enemies, we may yet have to fight them, in which case our odds look better when they have no one to reinforce them. And if they are not our enemies, they may have a similar purpose to our own. At the least we wouldn't have to worry about them following us."
From: Ty
Subject: Crashing the party; what now?
Actually, as dark as it is out here, there would be no way someone in the tower doorway, with the firelight behind them, could see the party in the woods.
From: Scott
Subject: Crashing the party; what now?
Mission chews on his lip. "Cadfael-- you spoke of a blessing Pelor could grant you-- to be able to detect evil. That was how we discovered Anileth."
He holds his palms open and shrugs, "Perhaps now would be a good time to try again?"
The DM's Thoughts on Detect Evil
Subject: The DM's thoughts on Detect Evil
Ok. We aren't sitting in a room together playing, so my usual diatribe on detect evil will have to be formalized into an email.
Here is why detect evil is of limited usefulness: Lots of people are evil. In fact, in my world, fully one quarter of the people you meet are going to be some degree of evil. In D&D terms, evil is basically selfishness. Once you are selfish enough that you will allow others to come to harm to feed your own needs, you are some degree of evil.
So, unless you are the high priestess to an evil god, and your evil is so strong that it flattens the priest who is detecting you, detect evil gives information of limited value. If Cadfael walked around with detect evil on all the time, he would be detecting evil all over the place. The greedy shopkeeper, the guy who beats his wife, the noble who over taxes, etc.
So, keep that in mind when you use it. An aura of evil does not equal sold his soul to kor garesh. At least not in this quest. :)
Now, back to the regularly scheduled program.
[I am still waiting on movess from the party outside before I can write up the next turn]
From: Karl
Subject: Re: The DM's thoughts on Detect Evil
"If Cadfael walked around with detect evil on all the time, he would be detecting evil all over the place."
As is often demonstrated by watching 5 minutes of any televangelist. :-)
From: Karl
Subject: Re: The DM's thoughts on Detect Evil
Farron is just waiting on someone else to make a decision.
From: Raja
Subject: Re: The DM's thoughts on Detect Evil
[null vote]
:)
Raja
From: Dan
Subject: Re: The DM's thoughts on Detect Evil
Do I think I can get close enough to cast it without being noticed by the people in the tower? I know you're warning me that I might not get anything, but it's better to be safe than sorry.
From: Ty
Subject: Re: The DM's thoughts on Detect Evil
The range is 60 feet. You would need to move out at least a little way into the clearing around the tower to detect anyone in the tower itself. The occupants could be as much at 10-15 back from the towers front wall. That means you might have to move that distance into the clearing before detecting anything.
From: Dan
Subject: Re: The DM's thoughts on Detect Evil
Cadfael nods at mission. "Yes, this would seem to be the wisest thing to do."
He then walks off around to one side of the tower so he can cast his spell away from the prying eyes of whoever is blocking the doorway.
More on Detect Evil
Subject: Re: The DM's thoughts on Detect Evil
Do I think I can get close enough to cast it without being noticed by the people in the tower? I know you're warning me that I might not get anything, but it's better to be safe than sorry.
Actually, as I understood Ty's point, he was telling you that you probably WOULD get something -- but that you'd probably get quite a few "evil" hits just walking through your average town. In other words, using "detect evil" to determine whether or not you're justified in killing someone is pretty morally reprehensible, since D&D's definition of "evil" would include almost all shopkeepers, moneylenders, and the like.
Tom
From: Ty
Subject: Re: The DM's thoughts on Detect Evil
Let me put it this way. I once took a class in inventory loss prevention. One of the statistics that was discussed was who steals, and who doesn't. the numbers broke down this way:
Some will never steal, no matter what.
Some will steal if they think they are justified, and will never get caught.
Some will always try to steal.
I can't remember the exact percentages for each category, but that is sort of my philosophical basis for how alignments fall in my game world. I do a 25%, 50%, 25% split of those three types listed above. In my world, if you are a lender who always tries to screw your client over, you are evil. Maybe not baby murdering evil, but selfish and dishonest evil. If you only screw someone over now and then, when you 'think they have it coming' you are probably neutral. I believe in a wide range within each alignment type.
So, that is how I justify my alignment spreads among NPC's. I know a lot of people are more black and white than I am, IE evil = baby murderer, but I think that takes away from the realism.
From: Dan
Subject: Re: The DM's thoughts on Detect Evil
OOC -- Actually, what I was looking for was a degree of "tingle" as it were. Considering how close we think we are to the black tower I think it's entirely possible that there's some uber-evil in the tower. If there isn't, I'll feel better about it. Obviously my character knows that the presence of some minor evil means I should keep my purse in my boot when I next talk to them and doesn't necessarily mean they need to be smote.
Cadfael in Trouble!
Subject: Re: The DM's thoughts on Detect Evil
OOC:
So. . . you're going to go ahead and cast Detect Evil?
From: Ty
Subject: Crashing the party; sneaking and peeking
After a brief discussion, Cadfael decides to go ahead and try his luck with a detect evil spell. There is little chance of him moving around in the dark with any degree of stealth, so he moves as far back into the forest as he can, while still keeping the tower in sight, then beings to circle it, trying to get out of view of the front door. After a few minutes of crunching through the brush, he can no longer see the firelight though the doorway, though some small amount of light comes through cracks in the tower itself.
In this dark location, Cadfael steps out of the forest into the clearing, and moves about fifteen feet closer to the tower, trying to walk as quietly as possible. He casts a detect evil orison, and begins concentrating on the tower. There is a tingle of evil there, nothing like the blast of evil Anileth gave off, but a tingle none the less. He begins concentrating, hoping to gather more information. Whatever the cause, he never hears a thing before there is a sharp pain in his neck, and his limbs instantly deaden. He tries to yell out, but his mouth no longer moves at his command. He begins to fall over when a pair of arms catches him, and lowers him almost gently to the ground. He sees a dark shape move off toward the tower. [Move silently 21; Listen 1; Fort Save versus paralysis 9; Paralyzed]
The party sees and hears nothing. And sits waiting Cadfael's return.
[I need responses from Tom and Matt before I can write up any more stuff]
Planning the Assault
Subject: Crashing the party; thump in the night
Cadfael crunches off through the underbrush, circling the tower. The rest of the group waits, keeping an eye on the tower itself. Mission keeps his crossbow trained on the tower doorway without wavering.
Everyone is trying to stay quiet, but finally Farron says in a low whisper, "Should it take him this long? It seems like he's been gone a long time."
Sa'id is just getting ready to answer when there is a low hoot from the side of the tower. It is clearly Rennik hooting, but what this particular hoot means is anyone's guess. A moment later, the doorway turns dark again. Mission strains to see what is happening, and it looks for a second like someone is dragging something heavy through the doorway [spot 23]. Then the doorway lights up again, as whoever was blocking it moves away.
Then there is silence again, and the tower looks exactly like before. But Cadfael does not return.
From: Karl
Subject: Re: Crashing the party; thump in the night
Farron again whispers, "Someone should find out what Rennik wants. It does not bode well that he is signaling rather than returning, especially since Cadfael has not returned. Do you think he could have gotten to Rennik without raising an alarm in all that armor?"
From: Raja
Subject: Re: Crashing the party; thump in the night
"I want to kick myself," Sa'id whispers to Farron, "for sending Brother Cadfael off alone. I clearly wasn't thinking." He pauses. "I'm not sure that we can avoid a confrontation anymore, but we shall see."
Stepping back, Sa'id mutters off a quick incantation, and a low hoot identical to Rennik's sounds from roughly where Cadfael moved to [Prestidigitation].
From: Mike
Subject: Re: Crashing the party; thump in the night
Garyth whispers, "We need to know what Rennik is calling about, and given how long Cadfael's been gone, it can't be good." He thinks a moment. "Mission, you are the stealthiest among us; you'd have the best chance of getting to Rennik. But if something has happened to Cadfael, it could happen to you as well. We can't afford to split the party..."
He surveys the clearing briefly. "If we circle around to the back side of the tower, where Rennik is, before you head out, we can keep you covered on your approach. Then you can either return, or tell Rennik to signal the rest of us ahead."
He looks to the party. "What do you say?"
From: Scott
Subject: Re: Crashing the party; thump in the night
Mission nods. "There were four people within the tower when Rennick saw them; two when you and Cadfael approached. Since we saw one, now, reentering the tower, there is still one unaccounted for."
He shrugs. "Keep your eyes open. And your ears."
He will then stealthily circle around the tower, following as best he can the path Rennick took-- the path that avoided the wizard's alarm. He will put away his crossbow for now to keep his hands free.
From: Mike
Subject: Re: Crashing the party; thump in the night
OOC: We're all circling, right? Garyth will take up his bow and nock an arrow when they reach the stopping point.
From: Ty
Subject: Re: Crashing the party; thump in the night
I would like raja and karl to check in and let me know if they are circling too.
From: Raja
Subject: Re: Crashing the party; thump in the night
Yes, I'll circle too.
From: Karl
Subject: Re: Crashing the party; thump in the night
Farron interjects, "We do not know that the one entering the tower is one that was seen before, do we? Isn't it possible in fact that the group in the tower could have any number of friends keeping watch in these woods?" Farron begins to scan the trees behind and above him. "We need to get to Rennik as quickly as we can."
From: Karl
Subject: Re: Crashing the party; thump in the night
Farron will stay with the party. If we're circling (which he thinks is a good idea) he will circle with them.
From: Ty
Subject: Crashing the party; sneaking around
The party agrees that getting to Rennik seems like a good idea. Everyone moves single file around the tower, staying well back in the forest. It is not the finest example of sneaking. It is still pitch black. Keeping out of the clearing means that almost no light from the tower illuminates the path. Much of the trip consists of people stepping on the back of someone else's foot, or running into branches. Fortunately, it appears that no one is watching, as no cry of alarm is raised.
After several minutes of this, Mission stops the group. "That hole is where Rennik went. I will go get him."
Mission takes only a single step when something moves in the dark next to the hole. There is a brief moment of alarm, but the shape and size of the person outside the hole is clearly the halfling. Mission moves over to his side and Rennik whispers, "What are you doing here? I am just getting ready to climb up the side of the tower. Look for another way in higher up. Who got captured? I heard them talking about a captive."
[Matt, feel free to add any other info you want. I'll wait until you check in before we move any further.]
From: Raja
Subject: Re: Crashing the party; sneaking around
"Cadfael," Sa'id whispers. "Like fools we sent him off into the dark to try a Detect Evil charm. He did not return." His voice is quiet, but his ire is clearly growing.
From: Matt
Subject: Re: Crashing the party; sneaking around
Cadfael, of all people. They choose to send the shiniest, clankiest one off alone into the dark forest. Rennik feels like a parent who turns his back for just five minutes to return and find his children leapfrogging the firepit. Part of his mind sympathizes for his poor father.
His voice quiet, he responds to Sa'id.
"He is inside, and I think he may be poisoned. Regardless, he is bound and kept at the farthest side of the tower away from the door. The spellweaver has gone to a higher floor for a commanding view, and has instructed his men to clear out if he yells, as he will be casting powerful magics."
"They do not know of my presence. I don't think they know there is a door on the other side of the large sled leaned against the wall, which makes me think they know nothing of Manut's imprisonment."
"They were cautious of our approach and didn't think Cadfael or Garyth had left. They sent out a scout, and he came back with Cadfael's body, saying something I couldn't really hear about a poisoned dagger."
"They know there are more voices in the woods and have shored up their defences, putting two against the door, one with Cadfael and the mage up top. They expect us to come and plan to hit us hard."
He pauses, almost in thought, then continues.
"My plan had been to burst through the barrier inside, give Cadfael my vial of antitoxin, then set the staircase ablaze to worry the wizard. That is impossible with three combatants on the ground floor, but they can be distracted."
"Garyth, could you and Mission sneak around the walls of the tower, being careful not to pass in front of cracked openings, to either side of the door in front? Mission, would it be possible to tumble in through the doorway, then fire your crossbow back at the men on either side of the door? If you could shoot at one and have him come at you, his back would be to the door. That could allow Garyth to attack him while you focus on his companion."
"Farron and Sa'id, is there anything you can do about the wizard upstairs? If Garyth can shout as he comes through the door, I will crash into the room from behind the sled, and focus my attentions on restoring Cadfael. I will give it a moment so your attack will draw off the man guarding him."
"My only fear is that cursed wizard. If these were only fighters, this fight would be over before it began. I only hope you can do something to stop him, or we could all be dead before dawn."
"What say you?"
From: Matt
Subject: Re: Crashing the party; sneaking around
Pausing for answers, Rennik again cuts in just as someone was about to speak.
"Though that way is risky, and gives them the high ground advantage."
Then, after another brief pause.
"I had thought to climb the tower to get a better look a moment ago, but now I think it may prove an archer's aerie, where I could provide cover fire and meet the spellweaver on his own ground. If you give me some moments to get into position, I could again make the hoopowl call to signal the attack."
Rennik seems torn, his cautious woodsman mind clashing with the impulses of the rage in his blood wanting to bloody his axe.
From: Scott
Subject: Re: Crashing the party; sneaking around
Poison. Chaos and magery. Mission tightens the dark cloth that hides his hair and grimaces. "I suppose apologising to them outright for our lack of trust is out of the question, isn't it."
He shakes his head. "I don't think I can tumble through two armed men and hold onto a loaded crossbow, Rennick. In any case, the wizard's alarm will catch me before I get close enough to suprise them."
He nods at Rennick's second suggestion. "Climbing the tower might be a better idea-- I was about to suggest it, myself. If you can remove the wizard from the battle quickly, this will go much more quickly."
He takes a quick breath. "I will tumble through the doors and try to draw the men there to me. Without my crossbow, unfortunately, methinks. Garyth, you must attack quickly-- I don't have any desire to end up on the wrong end of a pike.
"They don't know our numbers, or abilities." Another grimace as his eyes flick over the mages. "That's our advantage."
Mission will do as outlined above-- sneaking to the sides of the door, then tumbling in. If it's allowed, he'll tumble in with a loaded crossbow, and fire off a bolt at the man with the pike. If not, he'll try to tumble as close as possible to the man guarding Cadfael, and attack him with trip.
From: Mike
Subject: Re: Crashing the party; sneaking around
Garyth peers up at the tower. "Allowing them to maintain the high ground is undesirable, but it may be unavoidable. Face it, Rennik, the likes of us have no defense against wizardry. No, we must use ourselves where we can do some good--steel against steel--and let magic face magic. If we can bring your first plan off, I think that gives us the best chance. We can only hope that the wizard will not risk harming his own men to get us." He looks to Farron and Sa'id. "Can you give us any protection, or, if not, do anything to distract or disable the wizard?"
From: Raja
Subject: Re: Crashing the party; sneaking around
Sa'id turns to Mission. "What apology would they accept? We are not in the wrong, but I doubt very much they see it that way. If we could trust them to keep him alive 'til daybreak then we could simply wait, but from what Rennik says I'm not sure we can take that change." He pauses and looks to Garyth. "I have no useful protective magics for you, but Farron does know Haste. However, I know a fair amount of combat magic and will focus it on the wizard. If Cadfael was not inside, I would consider using my spell of Fireball again, but with him in the tower it's too risky. Is there a way I can get upstairs?"
From: Scott
Subject: Re: Crashing the party; sneaking around
OOC: Sarcasm is wasted on mages, apparently.
:)
From: Raja
Subject: Re: Crashing the party; sneaking around
Just this one in particular :)
Finalizing Plans
Subject: Re: Crashing the party; sneaking around
"Well, if I can get close enough to see the wizard, I can cast a spell to bind him for a short time. This could be fatal to him if he is alone upstairs and we can get someone to him while bound," Farron replies.
"Or, you have seen that I can summon monstrous aid from another realm. I can call forth several dire assistants that might distract our foes on the ground. Or, again if I can get positioned correctly, I might be able to summon them to appear upstairs and thus distract or wizard foe."
"What think you all of this?"
(ooc - Ty, is there any way I can get line-of-sight to the wizard, or can I cast Summon Monster to the second floor without having actually seen the second floor?/ooc)
From: Scott
Subject: Re: Crashing the party; sneaking around
Mission nods at the mage, but his voice is guarded. "Anything you can do to disable the wizard up there would be . . . welcome." Trusting to magery to defeat its own. . . Mission swallows and looks away.
"Rennick, Garyth-- we must move quickly. If you are not planning on climbing the tower, Rennick, maybe you can sneak into through the hole and suprise them from that angle, while Garyth and I attack from the front."
From: Ty
Subject: crashing the party; plotting strategy
I am going to let you guys plot as long as you like. I will not write up a new turn until everyone checks in with a final "I do this" kind of thing.
Keep in mind though, I am allowing a reasonable amount of game time to pass while you sneak around the tower, and have conversations about what to do. It is possible that those inside the tower could be taking actions during that time.
From: Scott
Subject: Re: crashing the party; plotting strategy
Mission is set on doing what he'd said he'd do last email.
From: Dan
Subject: Re: crashing the party; plotting strategy
I've got my best damsel in distress routine fired up and ready to roll.
From: Karl
Subject: Re: Crashing the party; sneaking around
"Here is what I can do," Farron suggests. "Ideally, I could try to climb the tower (ooc- 1 rank in 'climb' /ooc) and try to get a look at the wizard in there. If I'm not detected, and if I can get enough of a foothold to use my hands for casting, I could then cast a spell to bind him for a time. (Hold Person).
"Or, and this idea I like better, I could summon a pack of dire rats and send them into the tower with the instruction to head for the mage above. If the others try to stop them, they will be distracted when the rest of you attack, and if they don't, they will certainly distract the mage."
From: Raja
Subject: Re: Crashing the party; sneaking around
Sa'id nods. "The rats are a good idea. I suppose I will have to enter from the front, but I can use my ranged magics against the other wizard if Garyth and Mission can protect me from the fighters."
OOC: I'm ready to go.
From: Mike
Subject: Re: Crashing the party; sneaking around
(OOC)
So the plan is:
1.) Mission tumbles in and attracts attention by attacking someone.
2.) Garyth follows, attacking one of the fighters who goes after Mission.
3.) At the same time, Rennik will burst in from the back room and administer
the antitoxin to Cadfael, and Farron will send his dire rats up the stairs.
4.) Sa'id will follow Garyth in with magical support.
I'm good with this.
(/OOC)
From: Matt
Subject: Re: Crashing the party; sneaking around
Rennik's ears perk up at the mention of the pack of rats. Perhaps there is some use for mages after all... other than as targets or bait.
"The rats are a good idea, and a great distraction. With the chaos they will cause, Garyth and Mission will do well in open combat. I will scale the tower and offer cover from above with my bow, trying to harry the mage as much as possible in the process."
"The wall is easily climbed, though fragile in places. I should be able to get into position in a minute or two. I will hoot once I am ready."
If there are no objections, he will begin his climb up the wall.
From: Mike
Subject: Re: Crashing the party; sneaking around
Garyth watches the halfling begin the ascent with a slight feeling of dread. Splitting the party again seems a bad idea, but at this point, he can only hope for the best. He quietly draws his sword and waits for the signal.
(OOC: Is Farron casting Haste? Or will there not be enough time for him to do that and summon the rats?)
From: Karl
Subject: Re: Crashing the party; sneaking around
If there are no objections then Farron will cast Haste on the 5 of the party who are still conscious, then will cast Summon Monster. (Haste only lasts for 5 rounds - FYI). He suggests quickly that the attack start immediate *after* the rats are summoned, then he will Summon Monster (1d4+1 fiendish dire rats - OK, if this only gets us 2 rats, it might not be a pack, but these suckers are 4 feet long and over 50 pounds, so they'll still cause a ruckus.) He'll summon them as close to the front door as possible and direct them to run inside and upstairs to attack the mage. He will then follow Sa'id around the tower and into the attack, staying 20-30 feet away from him so that the two mages won't make a convenient common target.
NOTE 1: If Rennik is scaling the tower, he's probably not also breaking in from the back room to un-poison Cadfael.
NOTE 2: I'm outta the office after this email so this is what Farron plans to do unless someone stops him.
From: Dan
Subject: Re: Crashing the party; sneaking around
Just a reminder to Ty, waaaay back when we were first approaching the tower I cast Bull Strength and Rennik and Garyth. I'm sure it hasn't been 5 hours since then, so they both have suped up strength right now.
From: Ty
Subject: Re: Crashing the party; finalizing plans
Here is what I have so far:
-Farron casts haste
-Rennik climbs the tower (matt, what are you looking for? Climbing up to the roof, then coming down through the trapdoor? It would be almost impossible to fire a bow while hanging on the side of the tower, even if there was a useful hole to fire into. Also, climbing the tower is DC15, but trying to climb up the tower, then into a hole in its, side will be more difficult. I assumed you were going to the roof, and then down, but let me know if that's not the case.)
-Farron casts summon monster, and sends some rats in to distract the bad guys.
-Mission and Garyth wait by the front door for the rats to enter, then Mission enters while tumbling (BTW, tumbling prevents AOO's, but does not prevent attacks from those who are waiting in 'attack on approach' mode), and Garyth follows him.
-Once Mission and Garyth are engaged inside, Sa'id follows them in?
-Rennik is on the roof firing arrows into the tower?
-Farron? I mean, after the haste and rats?
Do I have the series of events properly listed? Please let me know.
From: Ty
Subject: Re: Crashing the party; sneaking around
Thanks for the reminder!
Garyth has +4
Rennik has +2
From: Mike
Subject: Re: Crashing the party; finalizing plans
I don't have a good handle on what Rennik is doing, but the rest sounds right.
From: Matt
Subject: Re: Crashing the party; finalizing plans
Just for clarification purposes.
The barging in through the back door idea was rescinded by Rennik because he felt it would give the mage too much of an upper hand, having the higher ground and visual ownership of the entire battle. He has decided to scale the walls, which are deteriorated enough to have plenty of handholds, to put himself in the crow's nest, if you will, along with the mage.
The plan is to offer covering fire (two arrows per round) for those on the floor, while also trying to get a shot in at the mage to disrupt his concentration and take him out of the action. While the fight is going on downstairs, Rennik will be the eye in the sky, raining arrows on our enemies and calling out warnings when he sees something others can't.
Now, as Ty had originally described it, the top of this tower is in a bad state of disrepair and there were lots of openings where smoke from their campfire has been exiting the tower. Rennik had originally thought to find a large enough hole (he ain't that big) and squeeze through, putting him on the inside of the tower higher up. If he can't find a suitable spot, he'll go all the way to the rooftop and try to find a way down.
Ideally, he's looking for a spot where he can set up shop with his bow and arrows, that offers some cover from the ground and some cover from the mage - but within sight of both. Since this may take a minute or so, he will signal using the same hooting call as before when he is in position - which would be a good time to start the night's festivities. :)
And Ty, remember his added strength bonus to his Climb rolls. :)
Does anyone else have an antitoxin to give to Cadfael once inside? If no one does, I can give them mine.
From: Raja
Subject: Re: Crashing the party; finalizing plans
One final note:
"If we find ourselves completely outclassed, RUN AWAY. Surviving is more important than winning. Remember that we are here to rescue Cadfael, and not to kill everything that moves."
From: Matt
Subject: Re: Crashing the party; finalizing plans
OOC: But what fun would that be?
More Planning
Subject: Re: Crashing the party; finalizing plans
OOC: The antitoxin Cadfael handed out is supposed to be taken pre-battle-- according to Cadfael, it would only protect from poison, not cure someone already affected.
>>>>
From the Archives, 7/28/03:
"I too bring good news, brothers! It is clear Pelor smiles on our quest and has seen fit to bless us with his aid before our journey has even begun in full! The good priests of this city were kind enough to give me 3 vials of an antitoxin. Sadly they will not cure a poison if you are already afflicted, but it does work to counter any agent that would otherwise do you harm. It lasts for roughly an hour in your blood before degrading and becoming useless, so I suggest it be taken before entering combat."
>>>>>
Sorry to rain on y'all's parade. :( Cadfael's a goner.
Good luck, everyone.
From: Karl
Subject: Re: Crashing the party; finalizing plans
Farron will do as you listed below, then wait for an update to see how well things are going. His goal is to try and get sight of the mage to cast Hold Person, though if other needs or opportunities to assist the others appear, he's ready to change plans on a dime.
From: Karl
Subject: Re: Crashing the party; finalizing plans
Anything happening today?
From: Raja
Subject: Re: Crashing the party; finalizing plans
I believe that everyone has checked in and we're just waiting on Ty to write up the next turn.
No Action Until Monday
Subject: Re: Crashing the party; finalizing plans
I was out of town the last two days, so it might be tough for me to get the turn written up today, but I will try.
If not today, then definitely Monday.
From: Ty
Subject: Crashing the party; final prep
Ok guys, I need one last thing.
I need to know EXACTLY where everyone is during the actions leading up to starting the attack. I am sending an incomplete map of the tower, please note where you will be on this map while the prep is happening, ie the haste spell and summoning spell.
I have put labels on the map for each of you, please just move your label to where you would be, and send it back to me. The stuff you see on the inside of the tower is was have been seen from the outside. Most of the inside is a mystery to you at this point.
From: Ty
Subject: Re: Crashing the party; final prep
Clearly, the long years of heroin use have begun to take their toll. "The stuff you see on the inside of the tower is was have been seen from the outside." Holy crap, what does that even mean? Try:
The stuff you see on the inside of the tower on the map is what has already been seen from outside.