Tenebrae - User contributions [en]

Overdue

2012-01-26T22:57:46Z

Teena:

Overdue - PrC
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Plotmaster - Clanga

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PCs

Spike - Barbarian 3

Alteri - Fighter 6

Sharna - Rogue 6

Teppus - Fighter/Paladin 3

Cesran - Wizard 4

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MONSTERS

Assassin Vine - CR 3

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The job for the adventurer's guild has brought you to the City Library. Not the Academy of Sages, not the University, not one of the Temples. The plain old City Library, which is still an impressive structure, if not as regal as the better funded Locals. You all have arrived at the appointed time and are met by one of the Under Librarians. The young boy of maybe 15 years gulps notably at your armor and weaponry, but leads you quickly inside and to a side antechamber. "Master K'nan will be with you in a moment." The room is bare save for a long table stained with ink, drink and food and a half score of sturdy wooden chairs.

<OOC> Spike says, "There's always a chair at the beginning."

GAME: Spike rolls disguise: (14)+2: 16

GAME: Cesran rolls perception: (11)+2: 13

<OOC> Teppus says, "I am going to make you buy ranks in disguise at this rate, Spike."

Spike is relatively behaving herself. For now. Then again, those who know her well probably catch the weighted, sidelong glances at the chairs. Still, it would be bad form to break cover. She came in her best 'scholars' robes' today. Big, poofy hood. A large overly heavy book (full of doodles) in a free hand, and a long fake mustache that curls out of the shadows of her hood. "Mmm. Yes. A library. We scholars enjoy libraries. Quite." She twirls the ends of the mustache.

<OOC> Spike says, "It's funnier that I'm bad at it. :("

Known more for slicing things than reading them, Alteri still manages to look not -too- out of place in the scholarly confines of the City Library. Yet, with the sword and guisarme strapped across her back, she certainly isn't here to pore over tomes with tea and crumpets. Unable to help the boy's nervousness, she simply nods silently to his words. Bad enough that he has to deal with the mustached golem. Clearing her throat, she unobstrusively toes the chair closest to Spike a little further away from the somewhat-disguised contruct.

<OOC> Teppus says, "But you keep rolling good! :("
<OOC> Spike says, "Not my fault! If your dice would quit working when they're supposed to..."

Cesran loves the library and the smell of old books, knowledge written down ready and waiting to be unlocked if one can find the tome one is looking for. He gives a kind smile to the young boy, "Thank you for your assistance." He glances over at the other scholar and he shakes his head with a heavy sigh.

"Don't." Sharna asides to the enormous, spiky golem - whatever clever disguise she happens to be in - upon noting the sort of look Spike's giving the chairs. In fact, she grabs one, louging in it and giving it a little pat. "See? These are the -nice- ones." Glassy, glassy smile. She just called a chair nice, and she did not merely mean to indicate its comfort or design.
Perhaps strangely, she seems rather at home here. How the one with the most (well, second-most) chance to stick out like a sore thumb isn't doing so is anyone's guess.

It is a bit longer than a moment, but you are not left to wait long before 'Master K'nan' comes in. The barely white robes constrast quite starkly with orange skin, for K'nan is a Arvek Nar. His hair matches his robes, and is kept in a long tail down his back. Though he has large thick glasses and uses a Cane he moves with a strong stride that isn't quite a march, though he stops at the head of the table at almost attention. "Thank you all for coming. I must admit I do not have a chance to work with such.. freelancers as yourselves often. Frankly I cannot afford it. But it seems I have a patron who is willing to foot the bill." He doesn't sit down but instead glances at each of you in turn.

Spike points at her eyes, and then at the chair Alteri toes away. The message is clear: I'm watching you. Still, when Sharna /defends/ the chair, she hisses,"How do I know you're not just in league... with THEM." She opens her big heavy book and pretends to write in it as the man talks. In reality, she is drawing pictures of playful kittens. "MMM. YES. QUITE."

And Teppus is here, of course, at the Library. He's probably not used to being i na place like this and he nods towards the boy in question. "Right," he says. And then he sees Spike and his epression just fills with dread. DREAD. The chair hating golem. Noooo! Well, okay.

Cesran bows his head respectfully to Master K'nan, whatever his race Cesran has a respect for those who are the keepers of books and knowledge, "I am happy to be of service to you Master K'nan. How can we be of assistance to you?" He tries to ignore the war golem's antics.

"Because you know I'm nice." Sharna replies to Spike with a beaming smile and words nobody in the world - except possibly Spike - will buy. Without missing a beat, she turns the smile at the Arvek Nar, nodding a greeting. "What can we do for you today, Master K'nan?" she asks, pleasantly. "Don't mind the golem. It's... special." she whispers, knowing full well Spike will have not a blessed clue who she's talking about. And even then might simply take it as a compliment.

The Hob glowers slight at the 'Scholar' over the rim of his glasses, but then clears his throat. "Count Folgrin is one of Alexandria's landowners. His estate is located about a week's journey by horse south east of here. The Count is a noted historian, especially about matters related to the Sorceress Wars, but his real interests lie in the more... peripheral stories of the time. The Count was on hand during the Ill fated Peace Confrence Six years ago, and evacuated into the city with most of the rest of the people. As a result, his estate was without his guidance for the five years that Alexandria was missing. Needless to say he returned to his estates soon afterwards, and he has not been heard from since. The farmers and the nearby town are still active, but my reports from the Merchants is that the Count's mansion is haunted."

"Haunted," repeats Teppus with some doubt in his tone. "Right. Haunted. And I suppose we're off to deal with the mess, eh? All right." He glances towards the others one by one. He meets their eyes when a chance arises and gives a nod of greeting. Seems like he's more or less ready to go.

"Haunted mansion. You hear that, Spikington? We're going to go to a spooky, possibly haunted mansion." Sharna asides to Spike. Pause. "The robes look nice on you." Did we mention she's a -liar-? She's a liar. "The moustache really adds..." A hand waves expressively. "... a special something, too."

Smile bright as sunlight. Beam. BEAM. She turns it on Teri and Teppus, too, as she nods them pleasant acknowledgement and greeting at long last.

Prudently deciding not to get between offending chairs and Spike, Alteri instead steps away, pale eyes glancing over the rest who have gathered. Her head dips slightly in silent greeting to the rogue, before her gaze settles on Teppus. Expression hardening, she glares a bit at the bald fellow, but turns her attention back to the Arvek Nar when Sharna addresses him. A grave nod accompanies the half-Mul's words; Spike -is- very special. The Hob's outlining of why they have been gathered sets a line to crease between the Eldanar's brows. She gives a thoughtful 'hngh' and shifts her shoulders under the weight of her weapons, "Any relatives?" Sharna's blatant fibbing gains the rogue a bit of an eyeroll, though the fighter remains intent on the Hob. Details. Details are good.

Spike snaps her book closed now, and declares,"Clearly, there is no time for kittens. We've got a haunted mansion to explore!" Also,"Oh yeah. I forgot you were nice. Nice people don't lie." Clearly. Just as clearly,"I'll need a new disguise.... I'll need my junior detective's kit! Also, where is this golem I'm always hearing so much about... Oh boy, oh boy... A haunted mansion, we are SO lucky."

Cesran is paying rapt attention to Master K'nan as they are getting the mission brief. He nods as he is thinking back to the history and knowledge that he knows about the Count and the history surrounding the Sorceress Wars and any peripheral stories of the time that he might know. He hmms, "And you wish us to find out what happened to the Count?"

K'nan nods to Teppus' reaction, "While you might indeed have to 'deal with the mess', the task I am hiring you for, the one that my Patron is paying you for, is a Book." He draws out a roll of paper, sliding it down the table toward Cesran, "The book is known as the 'Depths of Madness' a fanciful title for a rather boring, if unique book. The book itself is written in Aquan, and is a collection of stories about the Merfolk Coves around Alexandria during the Sorceress War. Despite what many believe, the Merfolk actually had much difficulties from Charn and Altima." He nods to the paper, "The Depths of Madness is titled with the Sygil you see there."

Alteri gnaws contemplatively on her bottom lip. Lifting a callused hand, she asks, "Pardon. Has it been confirmed that the Count is... no longer with us?" Delicacy from fighter. Who'd have thunk? Or perhaps, she is simply trying to make up for Spike's enthusiasm over the whole idea of a haunted mansion. She does lift an earnest brow of inquiry at the Hob, however.

"Don't think much of anything sounds confirmed at the moment," replies Teppus to Alteri with a grimace. He glances from side to side, once, but an eye is kept on Spike. An eye is always going to be kept on Spike, though. She's Spike.
Spike taps her chin thoughtfully,"Who's hiring us anyway? You're very ominously avoiding naming him. In Gobber-Girl Detective, #21, that was foreshadowing of a mysterious benefactor turned malefactor."

Cesran nods a little bit as he leans over the table and he studies the scroll memorizing what was on it. He has not learned the languages of elements yet as he is still mastering the ancient language of the elves. He nods as he finishes looking at the scroll, "May we take this with us or do you wish to keep this scroll?" He looks towards Master Knan, "And if the Count is still alive and doesn't wish to give up the book?"

The Arvek nods to the questions, "As for Relatives, I know that the Count is a widower, and that his Youngest Son died in Sendor. His eldest son stayed behind at the estate when he...." The hob pauses, glowers more at Spike, then resumes, "His eldest son stayed behind at the Estate during the Conference. I understand his daughter is still in the city, and that she's awaiting some sort of news, but she doesn't have much in the way of funds to finance such a mission." He smiles to Cesran, "You may keep the scroll, I just penned it this morning. As for the Book, it actually belongs to the Library. The count had borrowed it for some research and was supposed to return it when he had a chance."

Still smiling in that pleasant, business-like fashion she's so good at, Sharna leans forwards to look at and commit to memory the book's title. Or, well, marking upon the cover. Those who know her well may notice a hidden relief there. Retrieval mission, not undead cleaning. Killing undead is always rather unsavory. The others have covered the question bases, so she remains silent for the immediate moment.

Spike leans over and murmurs to Sharna,"One gold bet that the employer is totally evil." She starts stripping off her robe, and begins searching for her detective's cap and bubble pipe.

"Aquan. Depths of Madness. Got it. Why does this not sound promising no matter what you're telling us?" Teppus is sounding not exactly thrilled by some of the details, honestl, but he does give a nod. "ALl right. We'll see about getting this book back and dealing with any horrible things that've sprouted up. Haunted. Never a promisign sign." He lets out a sigh.

Forgetting her animosity towards Teppus for a moment, Alteri directs a troubled look towards the Serrielite. "Then it behooves us to confirm it, and if required, give his remains a proper path to the Dread Lady." She falls silent then, curious as to what revelations Spike and Cesran's questions bring. A sharp nod greets the Arvek's helpful answers. "That settles it." she murmurs to herself. Then, Teppus gets another hard look, "Getting the book AND seeking answers to the Count's fate." she states, firmly.

K'nan nods to the agreements, "I have arranged with a local trader who's heading out that way to carry you. By Airship it should only take you half a day, putting you in the village around high sun. From there you are on your own. I know the Count's mansion is in the woods to the south of the Town, but little more than that."

"We'll ask for directions once there." Sharna agrees, hopping to her feet in most adroit fashion. "You're not forgetting any relevant information we might need?" she asks, sweetly, of their employer-by-extension. "No? Alright." Turning to her fellow adventurers, the dark-skinned elfkin nods pleasantly. She's good to go, it seems.

The mention of an Airship has Alteri squaring her jaw; she is obviously not a fan of that mode of transport but will do what she must. Her eyes settle on Spike and Sharna. The both of them, on a ship, together. She takes a moment to pinch the bridge of her nose. "I hope that Airship is a large one." she mutters to herself.

Spike for her part merely lets out an overjoyed and confidence-inspiring,"Oh boy! I haven't been on one of those since I got kicked off one of those!"

"..." That's the response to Spike that Teppus gives. One hand's palm is pressed slowly into his face.

Alteri merely pinches the bridge of her nose even harder.

The hob gives a smile at Alteri's comment, "It's an empty Merchantman on an outbound trip to collect the last of the Grain the city has picked up. It should be sufficiently large. He will be on the return trip two days after he drops you off. If you aren't ready by then, you'll have to get back on foot." He straightens and nods, "Serriel be with you."

Cesran looks over the scroll and he could use a spell to find out what the sigel means, but when he hears that they will be using an airship he knows that he doesn't have the time to refresh his spells. He nods, "Thank you for all the information." He nods politely as he rolls up the scroll and he puts it in his scroll case.

"I'm sure it'll do just fine. When are we setting off?" Sharna asks of the hobgoblin. Hey, they need to pack at least basic provisions, if nothing else. "By the way, Grumpy, it's nice to see you around these parts again." she asides to Alteri - thankfully quietly enough not to cause the unfortunate nickname to spread. Sometimes, she IS nice. But only sometimes.

"'Course," is what Teppus says to the Hob with a grin, "We have the same interests, you and I." And with that, he's pretty much ready to go. He's got his stick with a blade on it and, from there, seems eager to get a move on.

K'nan manages not to salute. "The ship leaves on the hour. I have taken the liberty of arranging for a weeks worth of provisions for you. It is allready onboard." And with that he turns and heads to the door, "Dock 16 folks. On the hour."

Spike meanwhile chatters on,"Good. I'm hungry. I hope they have saur-steak! Ooooh. A boat. I haven't been swimming in forever!" Endless chatter. "Especially not air-swimming! I'm really bad at this!"

Alteri gives K'nan a small incline of her torso, angular features stretching into a thin smile, "She'd better be." comes her dry response. "And, no offense, Master K'nan, but I'd like to check on the provisions for mounts 'ere we set sail." Sharna's nickname has her scowling then. Menacingly, she approaches the rogue. At the last moment, the Highborn simply brushes past, murmuring to the elfkin, "Do us a favour and see if there're sedatives that work on golems. Else, I'm making her your ward." Scrubbing wearily at her face, she sets out to prepare for the trip out, trying not to register what Spike is saying about air-swimming.

Spike pipes up happily,"Last time I went air-swimming, the nice captain tied a rope from me and dangled me beneath the ship and told me I could swim ALL I wanted! He told the truth, too! I swam the whole way!"

The provisions are adequate, and you have just enough time to buy a bit extra if you want before the ship leaves. The flight is uneventful, without any excessive crosswinds or unnatural explosions coming from the boiler. As the sun reaches it's Zenith, the airship sets down just outside a town that the Captain informs you is called 'Tan's Rest'. The town is on the north side of a small river, with farms radiating outwards from there. The southside of the river is heavily wooded, and on the way down you can barely make out the top of two small towers that are probably the mansion, though your vantage point doesn't give much indication of how to get from here to there. There are a number of people standing beside the barn the airship lands beside, and they begin to roll out wagons of hay bales as the side of the ship folds open. An older male approaches you on a crutch, "Welcome to Tansrest.. what might a group such of yourself be needing around here." The other townfolks are guiding you warily.

Looking slightly worse for wear, because who wouldn't, cooped up in a limited space with Spike -and- Sharna, Alteri leads her blue roan down the gangplanks with care. "I know Stupid, I know." she mumbles tiredly to her mare who tosses its mane in relief to be on solid ground once more. Bowing slightly to the older male, the Highborn rakes her sable bangs out of bloodshot eyes, "Fair weather, good master. We seek the mansion of a Count who lives south of here. Know you the directions thence?"

Hey, Sharna's been behaving!

"There's a manor around here we've been told is possibly trouble. We're here to give it a look and see what's what." Sharna says brightly to the old-timer that approaches. Nope, not mentioning any books or promising they'll make it right, there! She's nodding, soulfully, at Alteri's words. "Don't suppose you could help us? We could use a map, at the very least." she adds, smiling prettily.

Spike hasn't been behaving. If the fact that she's got fingerpaint markings on her is any indication. Or maybe she has, and someone suggested fingerpaints to keep her occupied. At any rate, she has her junior detective cap, bubble pipe, and BIG WEAPON with her. "We're ghost-hunting! I... am a detective. We are catagorically unfrightened by any and all discorporeal beings of an otherworldly disposition."

"What they said," says Teppus, gesturing at Sharna and Alteri. Notably, he does not gesture at Spike. He doesn't even want to bei n thje same room as Spike, really! He's not liking his chances of that last part much, however.

The old man nods unsurprized at the request, though he seems a bit sad and resigned, "The woods to the sound have grown wild and feral since Count Folgrin vanshed. None who have entered the woods have returned, not even the COunt himself. We all know roughly where it is, but no one in town or the farms is willing to risk the woods." He nods in the direction of the river, where you see a small Cart Bridge over it, "Your journey starts there, and the Mansion /should/ be due south."

"Feral, huh? Well, that's lovely," replies Teppus, dryly, "Maybe we'll have to stab some wildlife." He lets out a sigh, then adds, "Right, though. We'll get a move on." And iwht that, he's eager to get a move on.

Spike frowns,"Should. Do you expect it to get up and go somewhere. Oh, Gods. It's a walking mansion, isn't it? It'll take forever to catch. Tell me... does it have dog legs, or bird legs?" She whispers as an aside to Sharna,"Bird-legged homes are the most temperamental."

"I hope you're still sharp far as woods go. I don't think I wanna get lost in there." Sharna asides to Alteri. She absently - but carefully, there's SPIKES - reaches out to give Spike a soothing pat on the head (it requires standing on tiptoes), not really fully registering what the golem's blathering.

Cesran follows after the others onto the ship and he enjoys the rid on the air ship. He follows after the others as they get off the air ship. He hmms softly as he looks around and he looks to Spike, "I doubt the mansion has legs. Let's find this book."

GAME: Cesran rolls knowledge/geography: (10)+9: 19

<OOC> Clanga says, "Regarding Geography. While the woods is natural for this area, between the farmland and the coast, the fact that the road has vanished in only 5 years is both odd and unnatural. You should be able to find your way south without much difficulty though"

Glancing to the bridge the old man indicates, Alteri nods, "Should be, hmm?" She offers him a faint smile, pressing a coin into his gnarled hand, "Our thanks for your help, and honesty." She makes a final check of her mount's tack and saddlepacks, transferring her baldrics to her saddle's pommel for the duration of their ride. Finally done fussing (though she'll cut you if you dare suggest that she was) with her beloved mare, she straightens and glances to her companions to see if all are prepared to set out. Noting the fingerpainted golem, she pauses to wet a square of linen, handing it to Spike, "There's some paint getting in the way of your detectiveness." With the offer of linen still held out, she gives Sharna a small, 'we'll see' shrug. A faint twinkle in her eye shows that she knows this is hardly a reassuring thing.

Cesran looks around to get his bearings and he hmmms softly, "Well that is interesting, there should be some kind of road, but it appears as if nature has been accelerated to overgrow it." He turns himself southward, "Well this is the way south shall we go?"

Spike oooh's out loud, then takes the hanky to wash herself,"Thanks! Detecting is important business, you know?" She washes the paint away, then gets out her big scythe and begins making air-chopping motions with it. "Step aside! I shall clear the brush! I have farming experience!"

<OOC> Clanga says, "Survival Rolls from those who wish to make them. Perception rolls for the rest."

GAME: Sharna rolls Perception: (7)+13: 20

GAME: Alteri rolls Survival: (9)+7: 16

GAME: Cesran rolls survival: (2)+2: 4

GAME: Spike rolls perception: (13)+7: 20

GAME: Cesran rolls perception: (10)+2: 12

<OOC> Clanga says, "Cesran, one or the other. But neither was enough."

<OOC> Cesran says, "Ah. yah neither is good"

The trip into the forest is as simple as crossing the bridge and passing under the leaves. While the light fades due to the canopy, there is still plenty enough to see by. For the keey eyed of you, it's possible to see the original path in places where the underbrush hasn't overgrown it. What is scary is the trees that look like they have been around for decades that dominate the roadway in places.

GAME: Teppus rolls Perception: (8)+1: 9

<OOC> Teppus flex.

<OOC> Teppus says, "Sorry about that. I hda to help my folks with dinner stuff. :)"

Ever alert around Spike, for woe she who is not, Alteri hops adroitly over the scythe's blade, "Most welcome," she mutters around a tight smile. Trying not to notice the looks the townspeople are giving their group, the Eldanar swings up into her saddle, kneeing Stupid onwards. Sable brows drawn, she squints at the growth and trees saying one thing, versus what common wisdom might dictate. "For a road that should've been kept clear, at least up until five winters back, these trees make no sense." she notes. Whinneying and sidestepping, Stupid reflects its mistress' discomfort, pristine snow crunching under the mare's steel-shod hooves
It is always good to keep an eye on Spike, that's for sure. Teppus is busily moving alogn with the others, seeming to be on his guard. Crunch crunch goes the forest floor beneath his boots.

Cesran after pointing the general direction is more than happy to let others lead the way. He continues to look around the forest as he follows after the others.

"I really kind of dislike forests." Sharna mutters into her chin. She's on foot for once, not stealing Alteri's horse (even if she did sneak her a sugarcube and patting), and is looking around in a manner that suggests she is rather discomforted by the surroundings. Wary. "Especially -this- forest." is muttered.

About five minutes into the woods, there is a figure standing on the 'path' near a tree. She is not trying to hide, though it's a bit hard to see her at first. The young woman, maybe 20 at most, steps out as she sees you, "My name is Lara. I was a friend of Jennia's before the City Vanished." She looks around the forest, "There are Fey to the East of here that cause this overgrowth, to destroy the road dominate the forest and keep people out. But there's another path to the Mansion, a quarter mile to the west of here, that is an old deer trail that the Fey didn't touch."

Spike confides in Sharna as she expresses dislike of trees,"This is only natural. After all... they are BREEDING GROUNDS for chairs, you see." Still, when the girl mentions the old deer trail, she wonders,"How do we know you aren't fey. And why didn't they touch it? Also, why are you all the way out here. And what city?" She looks at Sharna and whines,"Someone skipped ahead in the novel. I'm missing clues."

Cesran pauses as the figure makes herself known. "And what are you doing out here now Lara? Who is Jennia?" He tries to look closely at her to determine if she is a ghost or not. "Why would the Fey want to keep others out of the Mansion?"

The woman seems quite real and solid, "They don't care about the Mansion... or they think it's haunted... it might be I don't know." She shakes ehr head, "I helped the Count get to the Mansion the same way, but I don't dare go inside... it scares me."
"These Fey," says Teppus with a frown, "Can they be reasoned with? We people have a right to go through here. It makes sense that they've said this place has become feral and dangerous." This clearly concerns a Serrielite, honestly!

Cesran nods a little bit, "Than what are you doing here in the forest in the middle of no where just waiting for someone to come along? Why aren't you back at the village?"

Sharna doesn't quite startle, but her body does coil a tiny bit more, defensively. Give a girl a break, she's already tense. Azure eyes narrow a bit at the woman. She's clearly not a very trusting type, and this seems like an awful lot of lined-up coincidences. And hey, anyone could claim to be anyone, long as they do it convincingly enough! ... She'll have to try that sometime. 'Queen of Charn' might be a nice one to try sell. Still, she stills her tongue for the moment.

Longsufferingly, the Highborn bore Sharna's repeated attempts to steal her mare's affections, only giving the half-elf a stinkeye for even trying. Again. Reining her horse in, Alteri regards Lara with a carefully neutral expression, saying nothing in-lieu of letting the young woman answer to Cesran's questions. That expression sharpens, however, when it comes to light that the woman was perhaps, the last to see the Count alive. Aside to Spike, she says with deceptive lightness, "Looks like this novel is thicker than we thought."

Spike raises an eyebrow and blows a breath at Alteri,"She's clearly an evil plant. Here to lead us to the deathtrap mansion. It's alright, though! I have my pipe and magnifying glass!" Well... if, by magnifying glass, she means perfectly normal glass placed inside a hand magnifier. She blows on her pipe a bit. She peers at the girl suspiciously. Puffpuff.

"I wasn't waiting for 'someone'. I saw you get off the airship, and knew that this is where you would be going. I went this far in so that the Villagers didn't see me. If they knew I go into the woods, they would shun me, or worse." A shiver goes through the girls frame. "I don't know alot about the Fey. I know that they hold their 'court' east of here, and that they don't want humans cutting down 'their' woods. But they forget that we humans don't always destroy, which is why the trail is still there. They didn't think of us using natural paths."

Cesran hmms softly, "Why would they shun you for going into the woods? What do you know about the mansion that lies beyond the woods?"

"Uh huh," says Teppus. "Well, much as I'd like a word with these fey," he adds, "I can't really say we should head there right off. So you're a friend, eh?" Trusting Teppus nods his head, giving her a once over.

<OOC> Teppus says, "Detect evil, Clanga, targetted on her. Just in case. xD"

"It's dark and creepy and I heard screams from inside the first time I witnessed it." She answers the first question second, "They believe the Forest is cursed, and that anyone who comes out of it must be an evil witch." She laughs at her comment.

Alteri has a minor doubletake, needing a moment to consider if Spike means 'evil plant' as in foliage or something less literal. Given the golem's views on trees and all. As the questions to Lara pile up, the Eldanar clears her throat and unfairly uses her higher vantage point to try and gain the young woman's attention. "Thankful as we are for your directions, I hope if offends you not if I ask you to give us a detailed description of Jennia. The tales we have heard, yours included, are troubling, you understand."

Sharna gives Alteri an 'I'll explain later' look at her puzzlement with Spike and her seeming lack of making sense. Evil plant. Indeed.

Still, the elfkin remains silent, not really having much to add to that which Teppus and Cesran are already asking about. Stupid gets an absent-minded pat, because she's there.

<OOC> Clanga says, "Yes, she is evil."

<OOC> Teppus says, "Okay. :)"

So Teppus says, "Yes, we'll go with you," to the girl before leaning over to Alteri and murmuring something to her, casually. He'll also casually stop by the others. He's a paladin, though, so marching straight at evil's trap to smash it in the face is his plan.

<OOC> Teppus says, "Also, he's murmuring, "She's going to lead us into a trap -- let's go with her and break her with it'."

The woman nods with a smile and heads west. It doesn't take very long before you come out on the promised deer path. So far everything she's said is true. "Whatever is in the Mansion, I think the Fey fear it, for their forest stops about a hundred paces, though it's clear they could send it right up to the edge."

Spike frowns at the woman, then leans over and murmurs to Teppus, gesticulating at the girl wildly.

Cesran hmms, "And why haven't they shunned you before for following the Count into the woods and come back from it?" He looks towards the others to see if they are believing her.

<OOC> Sharna says, "Teppus! I'd like to read your lips/use perception to hear that whispering. Or try to. Is that okay with you? Spike... not so much. Spike never says anything meaningful, right? :("

<OOC> Spike says, "I'm just saying... I was right about the girl."

<OOC> Sharna had to check if it was even possible, it is indeed possible and the DC isn't high either. :(

The lack of Jennia's description from Lara sets Alteri's hackles up. As nonchalantly as she can, the fighter dismounts, only to get Teppus' murmured warning that confirms her suspicions. Signalling Stupid to keep pace with her, she gestures behind her back to Sharna in handspeech, passing the paladin's message along.

<OOC> Clanga says, "Perception checks. You are following her right?"

<OOC> Alteri says, "Yep. Well, Alteri is. Not sure if Sharna will once she gets the message. XD"

GAME: Alteri rolls Perception: (13)+6: 19

<OOC> Spike is. Already believes she are ebil. EBIL.

GAME: Spike rolls perception: (13)+7: 20

GAME: Teppus rolls Perception: (17)+1: 18

GAME: Cesran rolls perception: (2)+2: 4

<OOC> Sharna says, "I don't think Sharna can afford -leaving the only tracker in the group- because of a grump, honestly. XD"

GAME: Sharna rolls Perception: (2)+13: 15

GAME: You clear initiatives.

GAME: Clanga has cleared initiatives.

<OOC> Clanga says, "Initiative please. :)"

GAME: Cesran rolls initiative: Roll: 16 + Bonus: 3 = Total: 19

GAME: Spike rolls initiative: Roll: 3 + Bonus: 2 = Total: 5

GAME: Alteri rolls initiative: Roll: 18 + Bonus: 2 = Total: 20

GAME: Sharna rolls initiative: Roll: 6 + Bonus: 5 = Total: 11

GAME: Teppus rolls initiative: Roll: 11 + Bonus: 1 = Total: 12

GAME: You roll initiative for Plants: Roll: 6 + Bonus: 0 = Total: 6

<OOC> Clanga says, "If you wish to give up the game that you guys are onto her you can."

<OOC> Cesran says, "Will keep quiet than"

GAME: You roll initiative for Animals: Roll: 14 + Bonus: 1 = Total: 15

Current Initiative Order
---------------------------------

20 Alteri

19 Cesran

15 Animals

12 Teppus

11 Sharna

6 Plants

5 Spike

As the group of you proceed down the path, watching the pretty evil girl for signs of trechery, the plantlife to the side of the path attacks. Alteri, Spike and Teppus are not caught completely off guard, but Cesran and Sharna are focusing too much on the guide.

This gnarled vine, as thick as a man's arm and bearing hand-shaped leaves, convulses across the ground in an unnatural slither.

<OOC> Clanga says, "Alteri you're up first"

<OOC> Alteri says, "Right. Being horrid at remembering this stuff, I have to ask if Alteri can draw her sword and PA that slithering thing in one turn."

<OOC> Clanga says, "You can"

<OOC> Alteri says, "I'll do that then. :)"

<OOC> Alteri says, "Right then, Alteri charges for the slithering vine with her BFS."

<OOC> Clanga says, "Okay, swing"

GAME: Alteri rolls 1d20+15: (8)+15: 23

<OOC> Clanga says, "Damage"

GAME: Alteri rolls 1d10+17: (6)+17: 23

<OOC> Clanga says, "Your sword bites deep into the tentacle, which recoils, but it is not cut completely in two. Cesran, you can cast the Mage Armor, or attack the girl, but not the plant."

<OOC> Cesran is the plant restricting my movements?

<OOC> Clanga says, "No, but you only get one action, move or standard"

<OOC> Cesran says, "And I can't attack the plant even though Alteri went before me?"

<OOC> Clanga says, "Right, you werent' expecting that."

<OOC> Cesran says, "I'm good than since I can't see the plants you can skip me."

<OOC> Clanga says, "No Mage ARmor?"

<OOC> Cesran says, "Nah too early I don't want to waste it if we are going to be marching for more than 3 hours after this"

<OOC> Clanga ahs and nods

When the plant attacks, the your evil guide turns and screams like a girl, stepping away from the plant and backing into a large
thick treetrunk.

Walking with that fighter's gait that has her ready to move in any direction required at a moment's notice, Alteri spots the vine's
undulation. Unseeing, she draws her blade on instinct and with a slap at her roan's rump to send her off to safety, immediately
bounds towards the threat. Steel flashing mutely in the forest light, she kicks up a flurry of snow and slices deep into the plant's
(?) appendage. "Get the girl!" she yells over her shoulder. Who knows, Lara might be useful as a bargaining chip, that is, if they
consent to being taken in the first place.

Cesran didn't see the plants coming and before he can do anything the guide screams and backs into a large thick tree trunk. He
swears, "Damn it she's a druid of some kind." He guesses as he finally sees the plants attacking, but it's too late to do anything
for now.

<OOC> Clanga says, "Teppus"

<OOC> Teppus says, "Detect evil on the plant monster (just in case) and then grabbing the girl to act paladinly by threatening her."

<OOC> Teppus :P

<OOC> Clanga says, "DOes DE take an action?"

<OOC> Teppus says, "It's a move action."

<OOC> Clanga says, "Girl is more than 5 feet away."

<OOC> Teppus says, "Okay. I'll advance on the girl and tell her we're on to her and to call off her awful plant monster, since Teppus
would be expecting the same thing."

<OOC> Clanga hmms and nods, "intimidate if you want it."

<OOC> Teppus says, "Want a roll for like intimidate or something? Okay. :)"

GAME: Teppus rolls Intimidate: (20)+9: 29

<OOC> Teppus says, "..."

<OOC> Teppus makes little girls cry.

<OOC> Clanga says, "Okay, you definately succeed at scaring her"

When Teppus sees the horrible plant monster doing its thing, he heaves a sigh. Just that. He then strides closer to the girl,
quickly, grabbing her by one shoulder and leaning down to say into her face. "Cut your act. Call off your creature, girl. *Now*. We
were well aware of the trap you planned to spring on us. I may've forgotten to mention that I'm a paladin with little tolerance for
shenanigans. Call. It. Off."

<OOC> Clanga says, "Sharna, you can't attack the plant yet."

<OOC> Clanga says, "But you have one action"

<OOC> Sharna says, "Well, I was thinking of moving into flank on the plant with Teri, but... I guess I'm just oblivious to the plant
altogether? And Teppus seems to have the girl well in hand. I'll Total Defense."

<OOC> Clanga says, "So far yes"

<OOC> Sharna says, "5' step towards the girl, then, and Total Defense."

<OOC> Clanga says, "Okay, the plant goes. +reflex save 13 eveyrone"

GAME: Spike rolls reflex: (11)+3: 14

GAME: Alteri rolls reflex: (9)+4: 13

GAME: Sharna rolls reflex: (7)+10: 17

GAME: Teppus rolls Ref: (9)+4: 13

GAME: Cesran rolls reflex: (9)+4: 13

The plant tentacle pulls back, then all the plants in the area come to life. You're all experienced enough to recognize an entangle
spell, but it's not coming from the Guide.

<OOC> Clanga says, "Spike"

<OOC> Spike says, "... The girl is clearly an evil witch despite evidence to the contrary. I grab her."

<OOC> Spike says, "If the Paladin is doing it, it must be right."

<OOC> Cesran says, "I thought she disappeared into a tree"

<OOC> Spike says, "Grapple check, oooorrr...?"

<OOC> Clanga says, "Grapple attempt"

<OOC> Clanga says, "Against a Tree, not into it"

GAME: Spike rolls cmb: (9)+8: 17

<OOC> Clanga says, "Failed. She ducks down easily under your grasp"

<OOC> Clanga says, "Alteri"

<OOC> Alteri says, "The spell isn't coming from the guide... Alteri goes for the tentacle plant again."

Spike yells out,"Stop your attack and we promise to hurt the child!" Wait... shouldn't that be 'and we promise not to hurt the
child'?

<OOC> Clanga says, "Swing :)"

GAME: Alteri rolls 1d20+13: (20)+13: 33

<OOC> Spike says, "You beautiful bastard."

<OOC> Clanga sighs. :)

<OOC> Alteri says, "Melyndra is pretty beautiful, and is a bastard. ^_^;"

GAME: Alteri rolls 1d20+13: (17)+13: 30

<OOC> Clanga says, "Yep."

GAME: Alteri rolls +1d10+17: +(6)+17: 23

<OOC> Alteri says, "-6 if PA doesn't apply to the second. I don't recall!"

GAME: Alteri rolls 1d10+17: (9)+17: 26

<OOC> Sharna says, "Woman, it's a crit. Of course it applies. :P"

<OOC> Clanga says, "Well, you cut it off, and the writhing plants fall still..."

The young woman is clearly frightnened by the Paladin's threats, but that doesn't stop her from ducking the Golem's grasping arms,
"Fools, you have just sealed your fate. I will feast on your bones!" And with that she steps down the path a couple feet and
vanishes.

Trying not to be distracted by what Spike is yelling -- Wait, what? -- Alteri shrugs off the entanglement attempt, and, herself
yelling, "There are better ways to find mates!" she sets her corded arms and with a loud grunt, chops inelegantly through the thick
vine. Once, twice, and the pieces fall to lay motionless on the ground.

"Blah blah, fates sealed, bones," says Teppus. He lets out a sigh and then turns towards Alteri, "What, that's it?" he asks after a
moment, his hand on his sword-staff. He's not thrilled about all of this.

Spike plants the butt of her weapon and shouts,"DID I NOT JUST SAY SHE WAS EVIL? The fey want to stop HER, not us. They don't want us

to go to the mansion. Come on! It's Gobber-Girl Detective #43 all over again! Please at least tell me we're burning the mansion
instead of delivering the OBVIOUSLY cursed object or book. I mean, Depths of Madness. And our contact was so nervous. Just burn the
mansion, loot the remains, and solve the mystery."

"We WERE going to take her down, you know! That was just uncalled for!" Sharna says to the engulfing woodland, hopping and spinning
away as the vegetation seeks to entrap her. "Can we stop with the spellwork now?" Pause. "Sorry about your... wriggly... vine...
thing." she adds, as an afterthought. Poor, poor vine.

<OOC> Clanga says, "Anyone who wants can make a +knowledge/nature roll"

GAME: Cesran rolls knowledge/nature: (16)+10: 26

Cesran is able to identify the attacking plant as an Assassin Vine, not Fey relate at all, and not something intelligent enough to be
actively trying to stop anything. It exists to kill and feed. With that in mind, you are able to track down the roots of the Vine,
proving that you are right when the plants in the area come to life again. But without the thick vine bisected by Alteri, it has very
little defense to you digging it up and destroying it fully.

GAME: Teppus rolls Knowledge/nature: Trained Use Only: 0

<OOC> Teppus says, "OH YEAH"

<OOC> Teppus says, "LOVE THEM PALADIN SKILLS"

<OOC> Sharna says, "Pala-dim. :("

<OOC> Sharna says, "You haz skill points! All... 3 of them or so. :("

GAME: Spike rolls knowledge/Paladins-Suck: (19)+knowledge/Paladins+-Suck: 19

<OOC> Spike :D

<OOC> Sharna says, "Spike is well-educated in the subject. :("

Looking up from her inspection of her blade's edges, Alteri quirks a brow at the paladin. "Hardly. Someone who knows Mistress Jennia
wanted us stopped, or captured. Don't know about you, but I'd like to find out who. Did you see which way she went?" Well, her
attention was elsewhere when Lara vanished. "I'm afraid we can't burn it, Spike. If the Count is no more, ownership falls to his
children. It won't be our call." Trust Alteri to be a wet blanket. Cesran's identification of the attacking plant is a boon. Exhaling
while eyeing the destroyed Assassin Vine, the fighter plants the tip of her sword into the ground, "I know what we're burning for
fire if we must make camp."

<OOC> Clanga says, "So... I am going to head out here. If you guys want to RP for a bit on this, I will be leaving the window open
and logging... should be good for an hour."

<OOC> Clanga says, "We'll see what we can arrange for the next part."

<OOC> Teppus says, "Okay. Sounds great to me. :D"

"Rather, knows OF her." Sharna quips at Alteri's words. "She vanished into thin air far as I could see." she supplies as reply to the
more direct inquiry, shoulders lifting, then falling in a shrug. She seems a little put out by being, well, clueless.

<OOC> Alteri says, "Sounds good. Thanks for running the plot!"

<OOC> Spike says, "Indeed! It's been a hoot!"

Spike just stares at Alteri, gape-mouthed,"But... but... Evil. Didn't we just cover that it's evil? I mean... Come on... EVIL!" Then
she goes to collect destroyed vine, and pout. Because that's what she does.

Alteri dips her head, acceding to Sharna's correction, "Point." A small sigh, "Vanishing was rude. All this snow and no tracks to
follow." Trying to placate Spike, the Eldanar lifts a hand, "And Mistress Jennia will be duly informed of that evil... once we
confirm that this," she indicates the dead vine, "extends to the manse itself. It may well be that the Count is being held prisoner in his own home, like a princess in a tower. Unable to leave, only... sing..." She gives a shake of her head, "Apologies, where was I?"

------------------------------------------

PART 2

PCs

Alteri - Fighter 6

Sharna - Rogue 6

Teppus - Fighter/Paladin 3

Cesran - Wizard 4

------------------------------------------

MONSTERS

Green Hag - CR 5

Guards x2 - CR 1 each

Baron's Son - CR 6 (Watch Captain)

When last we left our intrepid heroes they had just defeated an evil vine plant trap that their 'Guide' had lead them to. In the process Spike had lost the Guide and chased after her into the woods, followed soon after by Cesran. The remaining three adventurers are standing on a animal trail that supposedly leads to the mansion of the Baron.

<OOC> Clanga says, "If people show up, they'll find their way back out of the woods to the party."

"'Tis the first bit of foliage I've met with murderous intent," Alteri muses, still curious about the vine they met. Ajusting the lay of her weapons across her back, she squints down the crashed path one spiked individual had disappeared down. "Hope she doesn't fall too hard on our 'guide'. I've yet more questions for her."

"Least it didn't twist my god damn blade into something useless," mutters Teppus. He's still smarting over the fate of his guisarme previous to this when fighting some wolves. Not happy about this, really. Not happy at ALL. But Teppus is still moving with Alteri and Sharna. Grumbly all the while.

"Well, that was... weird." is Sharna's comment on the matter. The girl sheathes her blades, eyeballing the crumpled mess of cut vines, no longer animate and oozing over by the edge of the trail. "Nice job." she asides to Alteri, to whom the vines being so sheared is owed.

The shadowblood glances around the now eerily-silent forest. "So um. Reckon they'll meet us at the manor?" she asks her remaining two companions. Following Spike into the wild woodland? Not her idea of a fun time.

<OOC> Clanga says, "Survival Roll from someone?"

<OOC> Sharna sort of silently points Alteriwards.

<OOC> Alteri says, "Oh, yes."

GAME: Alteri rolls Survival: (3)+8: 11

<OOC> Alteri loses way from city to home. x_x

GAME: Teppus rolls Survival: (2)+1: 3

<OOC> Teppus says, "HEY LOOK MOSS"

The path through the woods that you were following is definately not man-made, but also not hard enough to follow. They meander in a general southward direction, but twist and turn as it circles trees and crosses brooks. Alteri doesn't loose the path itself, but she definately would not be able to find her way forward... or back for that matter... trying to go any other way. It takes about an hour hiking before you start to see a large dark structure through the woods to your right.

At Sharna's aside, Alteri manages to shrug without moving her shoulders, "Got lucky. T'was my preference if we could talk and discern why it wished us harm, but..." she opens one callused paw to face skywards, indicating it is too late now. Her distraction with the mystery of the missing guide has her missing various marks along the path. Apologetic glances are given to the other two when it seems they have gone the touristic route on the way to the manse.

"Stupid forest." Sharna mutters as she trudges, every passing minute making her more miserable.

Aren't elves supposed to like wild, untamed nature? Apparently, this elfkin isn't all that keen on it right now - but at least she's not blaming Alteri for their numerous little detours and spins. Stupid forest indeed, not stupid Eldanar.

"Oh, dear gods, is that it?" Sharna asks when they seem to arrive to their destination, a tiny bit of sunshine and hope in her voice as she lifts a hand to point out the dark structure still hidden by the trees.

"Well. That's got to be it. Right? Please tell me that's it," says Teppus. He's tired of walking. He's been bitten by what seems like an endless number of bugs. He slaps his neck again. Scowls. There is a look of pure hatred for all life on his face right now.

"It is a nice forest," Alteri says in the area's defense. "When it isn't trying to kill us..." she adds after some thought. Not having escaped some bites too, she scritches unobstrusively at one buttcheek. "Sure hope so. We can knock and ask." With a firm nod, she sets out in the direction of the looming structure, already having made the decision to do just that.

It takes a few minutes to find a break in the folliage between the forest and the clearing, but eventually you step fully into the light. The mansion looms before you, mostly stonework unlike those in the city, but clearly not designed for fortification. It also hasn't been tended in years it seems, with paint on the door and sills peeling, the hedges around the property growing wild, and the iron gate out front rusted and hanging open.

"When's any forest that wild NOT trying to kill people in it, though?" Sharna asks, lips still downturned. They've been like that for a while.

Squeezing through into the clearing, muttering to herself, the Mul-blooded girl irritably picks bits and pieces of, well, forest from her clothing and hair. Leaves. Twigs. A flick of fingers at what looks like a very lost and confused beetle. A stray, dry bur is removed from her cloak and then pointedly attached to Alteri's shoulder.

"After you." Sharna says to the Eldanar, motioning manorwards.

A chill wind whips at Alteri's cloak once they reach the clearing, making the added burr shiver and shake where it sits on her shoulder. The crisp cold of the season hits with surprising intensity the moment they leave the hovering protections of the forest, and the Eldanar finds her nose afflicted with a sudden wish to be drippy. Dabbing and blowing at it with her kerchief, she dubiously eyes the rusted gate. "'Tisn't breaking and entering if it's already broken, yes?" she asks Teppus and well, not really Sharna.

Cesran has arrived.

SHortly after you exit into the clearing, you are joined by Cesran, who decided chasing after Spike running blindly through the woods would be a bad idea and returned to the trail you've been following.

"We were sent here by a respectable, concerned Alexandrian society to check this property. We're not doing anything wrong." Sharna says, chipper, totally out of turn and uninvited when it comes to providing said comment, considering Alteri isn't really addressing her. She beams a smile, too, of course, at both her and Teppus.

As you are examining the Gate, you catch a glimpse of your 'Guide' Lara, who's entered the grounds through a side gate and is just entering the mansion on that side of the building. Her simple brown dress looks worse for wear than it did last time you saw her. Clearly her flight into the woods was not smooth."

At least its just Spike. Spike is probably going to be busy harvesting something, somewhere, and no doubt can handle itself. Herself. Itself. Whatever. Teppus, at any rate, has stopped and looked at the front gates and then runs a hand iover the top of his head. "I tend to agree with you," he adds to Alteri. "We need to have ourselves a look here."

Silently shaking her head at Sharna's expected glossing over of anything vaguely unlawful, Alteri takes the burr and sticks it, on the beaming rogue's pale white eyebrow. "So sayeth you." she mutters. Noting the arrival of one of their missing party members, the highborn just bites back a sigh and makes to push open the rusty gate. This is when she catches sight of their 'guide'. Tensing, she goes, "I'm not seeing things, am I? Did our dear guide just enter through the side there?" Voice tight, her pale eyes narrow in a study of this other entrance.

Cesran stays in the back and he just watches now. He looks around and he keeps his own council for the moment as he waits to see what the others will do know that he's joined back up with the group. He's not one to trample through the forest if he doesn't have to.

"Ow!" goes Sharna, immediatelly - and carefully - extracting the bur and tossing it carelessly over a shoulder. Thankfully, her brows are thin enough for the little plant to not really stick all that much.

"Nope. Saw it too." the elfkin confirms Alteri is not hallucinating, in spite of the bur-battle. Had she not seen it, the bur might have ended up tangled in Alteri's hair rather than being discarded. "Reckon we should follow her? See what she's up to? She DID try feed us to a plant thing." Pause. "I think."

The gate is open enough that you don't need to open it further to get inside. The side entrance looks to be for servants to come in and out, and leads to a fallen down wooden stable and small postern door. The entrance into the mansion that the Guide used is not locked, and leads downwards into what should be a root cellar or possibly a kitchen.

"Hm? What?" Teppus, on the other hand, totally missed it. "Wait, what did I miss?" See? He totally missed it.

Nodding grimly, Alteri's feet turn to take her towards the side entrance, one hand snagging Teppus' cloak to help him keep up. "I have burning questions I wish to ask of her." This is all the legal justification the highborn needs, apparently. Wending past overgrown hedges, the warrior looks for that side door. "Gods send it isn't trapped." she mutters, throwing Sharna a look over her shoulder. And it seems it isn't! Taking absolutely no chances, the Eldanar draws her weapon, peering about their surroundings with brows drawn sharply together. From her tenseness, she appears to be expecting the kitchen to come alive and eat them or something.

Creeping more than walking behind the sturdy meat-shield that is the Eldanar, Sharna peers into the gloom. She has her crossbow in hands, a ricketty thing possibly in need of replacement, but still serving. Kind of. When the firing mechanism doesn't jam. Be as it may, she doesn't seem to have words to offer - just a slanted eye and a pointed ear on the lookout for danger.

The root cellar is connected to the kitchen. The kitchen is connected to the... ahem... In the kitchen you notice that there is food that is being prepared, mostly wild animals and vegetables. But there are also signs that animals are not the only thing being eaten... several skulls lay strewn around the kitchen, the most obvious sign of foul activity.

"...well. I think that about settles it, ladies," says Teppus, glancing down at the skulls. He leans down and inspects them for a moment, then readies his guisarme. "I am going to hit something with this. Very hard. And then whatever did this will die."

"OR," Alteri interjects, "Be brought back to face justice." Just because she is good at hitting things, doesn't mean she always seeks the bloodiest way to accomplish goals, honest. "But," and she eyes the skulls, "This isn't looking promising. Those aren't monkey skulls." Setting shoulders broadened by countless hours of weaponswork, the warrior proceeds further on, eyes sweeping for signs of the mansion's inhabitant(s).

Cesran looks towards Sharna, "Nah probably just tendering us up so that we'll be an easy meal." He comments on his way towards the side door and he follows the others in. He makes sure to look over his shoulder to make sure nothing is following them. He looks all around the kitchen and he sees the skull. "Well that looks like the last ones to chase a pretty girl through the forest."

"Reckon she's got a flying broomstick, too?" Sharna whispers to Alteri - though the tone of her voice indicates the joke's more a deflection tactic to try keep away the antsy feeling and chill going up her spine at the thought of someone who, well, might just be munching on people. Reaffirming her grip on the crossbow, she nods at Alteri to lead on.

"...I'm just going to wager a guess that they won't let us bring them back to face justice. Intead, they'll take a nice blade to the face. Hopefully. Mind you, if they surrender, yeah. Face the justice of the law, they will." He lets out a sigh. He's sort of hoping they don't make it easy.

During you brief examination of the room, you hear something from beyond the door to right of the hearth. Not immediately behind the door, but that direction, as opposed to the open doorway leading up opposite the hearth. Its hard to tell, but it sounds vaguely like a room being prepared for a gathering.

Ears pricking, the fighter moves cautiously towards the sounds. Sounds coming from behind... Tt's a door. Mutely standing aside for Sharna, Alteri gives the Mul-blooded a humourless little 'after you' smile and dip of her head. The meat-shield will be of little use here, unless her moderate dexterity is required.

<OOC> Sharna says, "Oh the dreaded doorways. FINE. I check it for traps and/or being locked. And then, assuming I find no traps, peek through the keyhole, if there's one!"

GAME: Sharna rolls Perception+2: (17)+14+2: 33

GAME: Cesran rolls knowledge/religion: (2)+12: 14

<OOC> Clanga says, "No traps, no keyhole, no lock. But you hear a chair scrape on the floor, and the shuffling of booted feet. Not alot."

So, having heard something, Teppus pauses and looks that way. He grimaces. Readies his sword-staff, and begins to head for the doorway in question. Hey. What are paladins good for if not bursting through doorways? He's stopped by Sharna examining things, though.

Moving to the door on tiptoes at Alteri's silent summons, Sharna gives the door a rudimentary inspection. There's a shake of her head, and a motion to signal an all-clear - if there's anything on that door, she isn't finding it. No words - wouldn't want to tip off whoever's shuffling chairs that they're here, after all.

Well then. Still cautious, as cautious as Teppus' paladin-instincts will let her be, Alteri cracks open the door and sidles her armoured form in. Crouched low with weapon held at the ready, she peeks around the door jamb to see what she might see.

<OOC> Clanga says, "Okay, going to ask a few questions, ask for a few rolls, then pose. First off, I assume you will proceed cautiously and quietly down the stairs on the other side of the doorway? From the door it just a dim light and a bit smokey."

<OOC> Sharna says, "That's the idea, on my part. I'll even properly attempt to Stealth, if the conditions are right for it."

<OOC> Cesran says, "will try to be as quiet as possible and do I know anything about the skulls besides they are humanoid?"

<OOC> Clanga says, "Nothing"

<OOC> Alteri says, "Yes. Alteri will readily give Sharna space to do her roguely thing."

<OOC> Clanga says, "Stealth won't help. You going to be coming out where expected where people will be looking... unless you have other plans."

Cesran continues to look at the skulls. He doesn't like playing with dead things much. He can tell they are human skulls, but other than that not much. Cesran shrugs a little bit as he picks up a skull one of the cleanest ones and he puts it in his bag.

<OOC> Clanga says, "THe following rolls will be available to people. +knowledge/nobility +craft (Any Stone or metal work), +profession (Anything to do with Nobility)."

GAME: Cesran rolls knowledge/nobility: (1)+9: 10

<OOC> Sharna has none of these things.

<OOC> Alteri has none either. :3

<OOC> Teppus has... knowledge/religion? <.<

A quick word from Cesran indicates that the stairs should lead to the wine Cellar. But what you find down there is a room that is much larger than it should be. Nearly 40' from the stairs to the far wall, the room is roughly 20' wide. The shuffling heard was clearly the work of the three men standing between you and a throne. In the Throne sits Count Folgrin, dressed in what might once have been his best courtly robes at one time. His eyes are a bit glazed as he gives you all an imperious look. Beside him is Lara, who leans over his shoulder, "There they are my Lord, the bandits who attacked me. They've come to kill you." The three standing men growl at that, tightening their grip on their allready drawn swords. Two look to be fairly normal, if burly guards, while the third is the COunts son. All three have the same glazed look on their faces.

"oh, come *on*," says Teppus after a moment. He just lets out a sigh. "Do we LOOK like bandits, you bloody idiots?" That's what he says next. Then he looks at Alteri, the plate armor wielding muscled woman. And then Sharna. The mul-blood. Then at Cesran. And his dredlocks.

"...we're NOT BADNITS!" A little desperate here.

Taking stock of the situation, Alteri draws herself up ad lifts a hand to try and stay Teppus' desperation, the highborn matching imperious look for imperious look, simply by virtue of her blood. "She lies, Count Folgrin." Using her parade master's voice, her words carry clearly to the very ends of the room. "Your daughter languishes, unknowing of your fate, while this harlot 'plants' deceit in your ears. We were sent only to seek word of you. Whyfor would attack her? We know not her relation to you to begin with." Full and round, Alteri cannot hide her noble's accent to save her life.

"..." That's Sharna. She eyeballs the scene, incredulous.

"... This has to be the worst, most complicated overdue book notice ever." the shadowblood mutters into her chin.
Eyes narrow at the vacant looks the Count and his men are sporting, lithe body tensing. "Somehow, I don't think they'll listen." Sharna whispers - but she's going to let the more... benign-looking members of the party try, at least.

Cesran follows the others down into the wine cellar and he looks around. He nods his head, "That's some pretty good vintages down here." He sees the throne, "Well that's a little ostentatious." He says sarcastically and he looks to Sharna as she brings up the book, "Good point we are just here for the book so give it back to us so we can return it to the library in Alexandria and we'll be out of your hair so you can get back to your feast."

The words from the Paladin have little effect on anyone in the room, save perhaps a faint snort from the Son. Alteri's empassioned speech brings a wicked smile to Lara's lips, but only a deepening frown to the Counts. He sits up a bit straighter in his chair, not looking fully at any of you, as if seeing something other than what is in front of him, "Well as you can see, I am fine. You may give word to my daughter that I am well and that she may return here." The mention of the book brings a deeper smile to Lara. "See my Lord, they are theives here to steal from your library. Kill them now." She then licks her lips as she looks you over, though only the adventurers see that.

<OOC> Clanga says, "Cesran, make me a quick Wisdom check"

GAME: Cesran rolls widsom: (9)+widsom: 9

GAME: Cesran rolls wisdom: (9)+2: 11

<OOC> Clanga says, "I think that should be good enough. You know this situation is a powder keg. ANy sort of obvious casting will likely start the battle."

Sharna casts a sidelong glance at Cesran. This is followed by a slow, deliberate application of a gloved palm to her face. She remains tense - eyes flicking between Lara and the armed guards.

Alteri throws Cesran an incredulous look, "After what we saw in the kitchen, you'll let him 'get back to' his feast?" And this is likely the point where Sharna groans about stupid fighters with morals. To the Count, she continues, "Nay, Lord Count. I venture the audacity to state that you are -not- fine. For the sake of your health, and your daughter's peace of mind, we must take you to the temple healers. Pray, step forth that we may escort you safely thus."

"She speaks truly," says Teppus of Alteri. "I am a paladin. A *Paladin*. I can not leave this situation to continue. Not when there are skulls and innocents in trouble that must be saved." He is not happy about this. But, well... PALADIN. THIS IS WHAT PALADINS DO.
Sharna may not be a beacon of morality, but she certainly isn't pro- witches who eat people, either. Or pro- letting people who try feed her to a plant go unpunished. Frankly, those who know her may catch the tension in the way she's handling the crossbow - though she does seem to be behaving and allowing for, possibly, a peaceful solution that suits everyone. However unlikely.

Cesran looks at Alteri and he shrugs, "It was worth a shot we are here to get the book back and I'd rather not have any book damaged." He looks towards the others, "Besides we've just seen human skulls what proof have we've seen that they are actually eating anything."

The words from Alteri and Teppus seem to give the Count some pause, which infuriates Lara. Her hand points to Alteri and she screams, "Ignore their words! Kill them now!" The guards leap into action, raising their swords up as they advance forward. Even the Count raises to his feet, though his reactions are slower and weaker. In the midst of this activity, Lara waves her hand and vanishes from view.

<OOC> Clanga says, "Okay folks, +initiative. And people can make a Spellcraft or +knowledge/Arcana roll.

GAME: You clear initiatives.

GAME: Clanga has cleared initiatives.

"...they were in the KITCHEN," says Teppus to Cesran.

GAME: Teppus rolls initiative: Roll: 2 + Bonus: 1 = Total: 3

GAME: Alteri rolls initiative: Roll: 5 + Bonus: 2 = Total: 7

GAME: You roll initiative for Count: Roll: 17 + Bonus: +1 = Total: 18

GAME: Cesran rolls spellcraft: (6)+15: 21

GAME: You roll initiative for Son: Roll: 5 + Bonus: +1 = Total: 6

GAME: Sharna rolls initiative: Roll: 2 + Bonus: 5 = Total: 7

GAME: Cesran rolls initiative: Roll: 3 + Bonus: 3 = Total: 6

GAME: Clanga rolls Guards/+0: (1)+Guards/+0: 1 to +0

GAME: You roll initiative for Guards: Roll: 19 + Bonus: +0 = Total: 19

GAME: You roll initiative for Lara: Roll: 6 + Bonus: +1 = Total: 7

Current Initiative Order
---------------------------------

19 Guards

18 Count

7 Sharna

7 Alteri

7 Lara

6 Cesran

6 Son

3 Teppus

"... She was just eyeballing us and licking her lips a moment ago! I doubt she's thinking about... well... gods, I hope she's not, anyway." replies Sharna to Cesran. If shadowbloods could go visibly pale, she so would.

<OOC> Clanga says, "Cesran, that wasn't a spell, but a supernatural ability."

<OOC> Clanga says, "Guards do not charge, but advance on Alteri and attack"

Cesran |HUMAN |Wiz | 4 | 26 | 26 | 13 | 2 | 4 | 6 |

Teppus |HUMAN |Ftr/Pal | 3 | 25 | 25 | 18 | 10 | 4 | 7 |

Alteri |HUMAN |Ftr | 6 | 56 | 56 | 21 | 9 | 5 | 6 |

Sharna |HALF-ELF|Rog | 6 | 46 | 46 | 20 | 5 | 11 | 5 |

<OOC> Clanga says, "They are armed with Heavy Flails"

<OOC> Clanga says, "No Power attack though"

GAME: Clanga rolls 1d20+5: (7)+5: 12

GAME: Clanga rolls 1d20+5: (4)+5: 9

<OOC> Clanga says, "The count stands, straightens his outfit, then draws a rapier. Sharna."

<OOC> Sharna says, "Drop crossbow (free), pull saps + move behind one of the guards in relation to Alteri (move), ready action: attack when Alteri reacts (standard, and will be triggered immediatelly, I'm thinking!)"

The guards rush forward, each brandishing a heavy flail. They do not seem to be using flanking... or any other sort of tactics yet... and their blows merely glance off the Fighters Armor. The count stands and straightens his outfit before drawing a rapier and stepping away from the throne.

<OOC> Clanga says, "WIth the room only being 4 squares wide, you risk an AoO without a tumble check."

GAME: Sharna rolls Acrobatics: (15)+14: 29

<OOC> Clanga says, "No problem. And you don't need to wait for ALteri... you're allready flanking once you get to the far side, since they engaged her."

<OOC> Sharna says, "Technically, I do, since flatfooted people don't threaten, but init's aligned so that my ready triggers immediatelly. XD"

GAME: Sharna rolls 1d20+4+5+2: (15)+4+5+2: 26

GAME: Sharna rolls 1d6+2+3d6: (5)+2+(6): 13

<OOC> Clanga says, "Not flat footed."

<OOC> Sharna says, "That much nonlethal."

<OOC> Clanga says, "Not enough to drop him, though he staggers slightly"

Leaping adroitly above the head of the flail before the unfortunate guard can even react to take advantage of the opening, Sharna lands in almost catlike manner behind the human. Her crossbow's been discarded, replaced by the pair of blackjacks - one of which is firmly applied to the back of his cranium. The leather gives a resounding crack, and the man stumbles, but does not yet fall.

<OOC> Clanga says, "Alteri"

<OOC> Alteri says, "I non-lethal PA on the one Sharna hit. If he goes down, I non-lethal PA the second guard."

<OOC> Clanga says, "Okay."

GAME: Alteri rolls 1d20+14+2-4: (18)+14+2+-4: 30

<OOC> Clanga says, "+14 with the power attack negative? Daaaamn. :)"

<OOC> Sharna says, "Furious Focus. She doesn't take the negative on her first attack."

<OOC> Teppus nods. Furious Focus is <3.

GAME: Alteri rolls 1d10+17: (6)+17: 23

<OOC> Clanga says, "Okay."

<OOC> Clanga says, "Well he's out."

<OOC> Alteri says, "Iterative on his friend."

GAME: Alteri rolls 1d10+14-4-5-2: (2)+14+-4+-5+-2: 5

<OOC> Alteri grins. "And that's what happens when FF stops working.

<OOC> Sharna says, "Hem. d20 maybe? XD"

GAME: Alteri rolls 1d20: (13): 13

<OOC> Alteri says, "So 13 + 3. doubt it hits. :3"

<OOC> Clanga says, "Nope, miss on the second"

<OOC> Alteri poses.

GAME: Clanga rolls 1d20+33-15: (14)+33+-15: 32

<OOC> Clanga says, "Sharna, perception check"

GAME: Sharna rolls Perception: (16)+14: 30

<OOC> Clanga says, "Close. 'Lara' appears behind Alteri, flanking with the still standing guard."

"Gods damn it, she did it again," Alteri hisses when Lara vanishes into thin air. Then there is nothing left to say as the glazed men advance on their group. Shifting as the heavy flails come flying, she manages to angle herself that they only perform glancing blows. Giving Sharna a toothy grin over the shoulder of the first guard she faces, the highborn shifts the grip on her hilt and with the flat of her blade, finishes the work the rogue started. The dull thunk sends the fellow into lala land. Sighting the second guard, Alteri attempts to do the same to him, but her swing goes wide as he finds the split-second needed to ready a dodge.

GAME: Clanga rolls 1d20+15: (17)+15: 32

GAME: Clanga rolls 1d4+4: (1)+4: 5

<OOC> Clanga says, "ALteri, DC 16 Fort"

GAME: Alteri rolls Fortitude: (5)+9: 14

<OOC> Clanga says, "2pts Strength Damage"

GAME: Clanga damaged Alteri for 5 points. 51 remaining.

<OOC> Clanga says, "Cesran, you're up."

<OOC> Cesran says, "Knowledge/religion as to what Lara is."

<OOC> Clanga says, "Sure"

<OOC> Cesran says, "Cast true strike"

GAME: Cesran casts True Strike.

GAME: Cesran rolls knowledge/religion: (13)+12: 25

<OOC> Clanga says, "Okay."

<OOC> Clanga says, "She's not undead, God or Demon."

<OOC> Cesran says, "Okay"

<OOC> Clanga says, "THe sone steps forward and swings his halberd at Sharna"

GAME: Clanga rolls 1d20+14: (13)+14: 27

GAME: Clanga rolls 1d10+10: (3)+10: 13

GAME: Clanga damaged Sharna for 13 points. 33 remaining.

<OOC> Clanga says, "Correction, Bastard Sword being wielded 2 handed (Which doesn't change the numbers)"

There is a faint brush in the air as Lara passes Sharna, but not enough for the Rogue to react to in time. The creature appears beside Alteri, taking advantage of her swing against the second guard as distraction. Her hand lashes out, leaving a gash in one bicept that seems to suck the strength right out of the Fighter. "You will make a tasty one." Meanwhile the Count's son swings his sword out at Sharna, who is suddenly his closest target. He demonstrates considerable skill and lethal efficiency as the blade digs into the rogue's side.

Cesran watches as the battle takes place and he takes out a small wooden replica of a archery target. He casts the spell as the battle starts to rage and he sees Lara as he tries to identify what she is. Since his mind is still on the skulls he checks his knowledge of any undead, god or demon and he can't as of yet identify Lara.

<OOC> Clanga says, "Teppus, you're up finally. ;)"

<OOC> Teppus says, "Oops!"

<OOC> Teppus says, "I missed you saying it was my turn."

<OOC> Alteri says, "Stop being all sick and snotty faced."

<OOC> Teppus says, "I'ma move up and attempt to attack the halberdier. Nonlethally!"

GAME: Teppus rolls 1d20+4: (15)+4: 19

GAME: Teppus rolls 2d4+6: (4)+6: 10

<OOC> Teppus says, "Assuming that's a hit."

<OOC> Clanga says, "No it did not"

<OOC> Cesran says, "Bastard sworder"

<OOC> Clanga says, "Platemail with +1 Dex... 20 AC"

GAME: Clanga rolls 1d20+7: (10)+7: 17

The Guard doesn't seem to take any notice of his companion falling, and only minimal notice of the attack being swung at him. HIs make continues to whirl through the air again bouncing off Alteri's armor. The Count moves towards Alteri as well, but more of a stroll as he watches his 'court' deal with the problem.

<OOC> Clanga says, "Shanra is up"

<OOC> Sharna says, "Is there such a position that I can 5' into flank with Alteri on the remaining guard?"

<OOC> Clanga says, "No Sorry."

<OOC> Sharna says, "I attempt to Acrobatics away from him and happy swordy fellow into flank with Lara with Teri, then. And bean her, unless I eat AoOs and get downed!"

Bursting towards the Swordsman that'd attacked Sharma, Teppus yells out a cry, "For Serriel!" And then brings his guisarme down to slice at his legs. Sadly, the plate makes this impractical and nearly useless. The paladin looks... annoyed. "Dammit."

<OOC> Clanga says, "Roll it."

GAME: Sharna rolls Acrobatics: (13)+14: 27

GAME: Sharna rolls 1d20+4+5+2: (2)+4+5+2: 13

<OOC> Sharna says, "Whiff. :("

<OOC> Clanga says, "Indeed"

<OOC> Sharna says, "But hey, Teri can haz flankz."

<OOC> Sharna poses!

<OOC> Alteri says, "<3"

<OOC> Clanga says, "ALteri.. She's definatley not human. :)"

<OOC> Clanga says, "Your go"

<OOC> Alteri says, "Alteri continues to burn. With questions. She non-lethals Lara."

<OOC> Alteri says, "With PA. Again, second on guard if first downs initial target."

<OOC> Clanga says, "Swing"

GAME: Alteri rolls 1d20+14+2-4: (12)+14+2+-4: 24

<OOC> Alteri says, "Er, sorry."

"... shit." goes Sharna, ever so verbose as she looks down at the enormous bleeding gash the sword's blow has left in her side. Unable to get an advantage on the combatants around her, the lithe rogue backflips across the battlefield, landing behind Lara - if that is indeed the creature's actual name - and swinging a blackjack in the direction. The weapon goes wide by a mile.

<OOC> Alteri says, "Forgot -1."

<OOC> Alteri says, "So 23."

<OOC> Clanga says, "Still a hit."

GAME: Alteri rolls 1d10+16: (5)+16: 21

<OOC> Clanga says, "Does not down"

<OOC> Alteri says, "Second on Lara once more then."

GAME: Alteri rolls 1d20+14-5-2+2-1: (17)+14+-5+-2+2+-1: 25

GAME: Alteri rolls 1d10+16: (10)+16: 26

<OOC> Clanga says, "Not enough, though you stagger her."

<OOC> Alteri poses. :3

<OOC> Alteri says, "Uh sorry, I've been reminded I forgot to take non-lethal on my second swing."

<OOC> Clanga says, "Still fine"

<OOC> Alteri says, "So at 21, I'm not sure if that still connects."

<OOC> Alteri says, "Okay. :)"

<OOC> Clanga says, "BTW, I think you're using Power Attack wrong... you're using the -5 from 3.5, not the -2 from PF..."

<OOC> Sharna says, "That's for the iterative, not from PA. ;)"

<OOC> Sharna says, "The -2 is PA."

<OOC> Clanga says, "Ah! Okay NM"

GAME: Clanga rolls 1d20+15: (19)+15: 34

<OOC> Clanga says, "And that for a Touch Attack. :("

<OOC> Alteri is still confused over the whole she-bang. D&D are confusing. >_>;

<OOC> Clanga says, "Fort 16 again Alteri"

GAME: Clanga rolls 2d4: (6): 6

GAME: Alteri rolls Fortitude: (12)+9: 21

<OOC> Clanga says, "Okay, so you don't take the 6pts of Strength Damage. ;)"

<OOC> Clanga says, "Cesran, you're up"

<OOC> Cesran says, "knowledge/? to identify what lara is before I shoot her with scorching ray."

<OOC> Clanga says, "Sure, Nature"

GAME: Cesran rolls knowledge/nature: (15)+10: 25

Tasty one??!?!? What?? Warnings blaring in her head, Alteri shivers at the touch on her bicep, the seemingly small scratch slipping past her plate armour and weakening her far more than it should. Immediately, her attention switches to the suddenly appearing Lara. Growling, "Oh no you don't," the highborn centres all her efforts on the deceptively fragile looking creature. Both her swings connect in rapid, slashing succession, cutting deeply both times into Lara. Feet scuffing the flagstones, Alteri in turn, desperately fights off Lara's evil-feeling touch.

<OOC> Clanga says, "Green Hag"

GAME: Cesran rolls 1d20+20+5-4: (3)+20+5+-4: 24

<OOC> Cesran says, "touch attack"

<OOC> Cesran says, "ranged touch attack"

<OOC> Clanga says, "Hit"

GAME: Cesran rolls 4d6+1: (9)+1: 10

<OOC> Clanga says, "Not quite enough"

<OOC> Clanga says, "The son swings on Teppus"

GAME: Clanga rolls 1d20+14: (12)+14: 26

GAME: Clanga rolls 1d20+9: (6)+9: 15

GAME: Clanga rolls 1d10+10: (7)+10: 17

GAME: Clanga damaged Teppus for 17 points. 8 remaining.

<OOC> Clanga says, "ANd Teppus is up"

Cesran lets his mind roam this stores of knowledge and he finally comes up with a monster that fits the bill for Lara, "She's a Green Hag!" He announces out loud as he points his two fingers on his right hand at Lara. The tips of his finger glow red for a moment as Cesran takes advantage of the insight from true strike and although he still has to aim around the others he fires off a ray of fire at Lara hurting her badly, but not badly enough.

The blows definately stagger Lara, who is starting to realize that this might not be the best situation. She reaches out to place her hand on Alteri's arm. The Fighter feels another wave of weakness, this one far worse than before, but managed to fight off the ill effects. The Count's son on the other hand seems quite comfortable with his sword, lashing out at the new target that presents itself, Teppus. His first blow wounds the Paladin badly, but his second scrapes along armor.

<OOC> Clanga says, "Teppus"

<OOC> Cesran gets out his Teppus puppet.

<OOC> Clanga says, "THat is not a good idea."

<OOC> Cesran is just teasing.

Long distance to Whirlpool: Clanga does poke though. :)

<OOC> Teppus returns!

<OOC> Teppus says, "My apologies."

<OOC> Teppus says, "I am going to smite Lara. SMITE."

<OOC> Clanga says, "Smite away"

GAME: Teppus rolls 1d20+11: (13)+11: 24

GAME: Teppus rolls 2d4+6+2: (3)+6+2: 11

<OOC> Clanga says, "She drops, reverting to her ugly form"

GAME: Clanga rolls 1d20+5: (11)+5: 16

"This is your doing. Your doing!" Teppus turns and channels divine energy into the tip of his glaive. He swings it it, then, and drives it hard into 'Lara's side. The blade pierces her and he drives her back with it before yanking it savagely from her with a flash of light. She teeters and falls to the ground, taking upon her true form. It is not pretty. At all. Uglier than even Alteri!
The revelation of the Hag's true form does not seem to surpise or disuade the Guard, who takes another ineffectual swing at Alteri. It does have an effect on the count though, who staggers back in shock as he witnesses her transformation. It's clear though that the son is the same way as the Guard, ready to continue the fight.

<OOC> Teppus is ducking.

<OOC> Clanga says, "Sharna"

<OOC> Sharna says, "I would like to move into flank with... anyone, really, at this point, on the son or guard, whichever is more feasible, and whack that target inna head."

<OOC> Clanga says, "You can 5' to flank the son with Teppus"

<OOC> Sharna says, "Really? Perfect. Full attack on him, then."

<OOC> Sharna says, "The son, not Teppus."

<OOC> Sharna says, "Even though I'm tempted."

<OOC> Clanga grins.

GAME: Sharna rolls 1d20+4+5+2-2: (10)+4+5+2+-2: 19

GAME: Sharna rolls 1d20+4+5+2-2: (1)+4+5+2+-2: 10

<OOC> Alteri *****punts Teppus. >_<o

<OOC> Sharna says, "That's two misses, I figure?"

<OOC> Clanga says, "If you have the flank in there, then yes they miss"

<OOC> Sharna says, "Everything's in there, yeah."

<OOC> Clanga says, "ALteri"

<OOC> Alteri says, "Hmm. Can Alteri charge the son?"

"... ew. Is it just me, or is this thing just like the... one... on the boat..." Sharna's words trail off. Her horror at the hag's appearance clearly has deeper root than just the immediate, and her blackjacks' blows resound ineffectually on the swordsman's heavy armor.

<OOC> Clanga says, "You are 10' away... if that's enough then yes"

<OOC> Clanga says, "No flank though."

<OOC> Alteri says, "Okay. Alteri charges and non-lethal PAs the fellow."

<OOC> Clanga says, "Go ahead"

GAME: Alteri rolls 1d20+13+2-4: (10)+13+2+-4: 21

GAME: Alteri rolls 1d10+16: (4)+16: 20

<OOC> Clanga says, "Still up. You'd estimate not even close to half"

<OOC> Clanga says, "Cesran?"

<OOC> Cesran says, "Can I do a knowledge/arcana to know what spell they are under and than magic missile the son."

<OOC> Clanga says, "Not a spell, you can have that for free.. Pure psychology"

<OOC> Clanga says, "And shoot"

GAME: Cesran rolls knowledge/arcana: (7)+14: 21

<OOC> Clanga says, "You didn't need the roll."

<OOC> Cesran says, "oh"

<OOC> Clanga says, "I meant the Magic Missile."

<OOC> Cesran says, "I meant to cast it"

GAME: Cesran refreshes spells.

<OOC> Cesran says, "Sorry I forgot to refresh"

"Green what?" Alteri says in response to Cesran's little tidbit. Then Teppus rams his polearm into Lara and the eldanar rears back at the sight. "Oh, green that." Shaking off the hideous horror that Lara's true form inspires, the fighter deflects the guard's flail swing and sights the son instead. That hit Teppus took was bad, setting her priorities to dealing with the plate-armoured man next. Rushing as swiftly as her own armour allows, she crashes into the son, her mutely glowing blade cutting into the gap under his arm.

GAME: Cesran casts Magic Missile.

GAME: Cesran rolls 2d4+3: (5)+3: 8

GAME: Clanga rolls 1d20+14: (18)+14: 32

GAME: Clanga rolls 1d20+9: (11)+9: 20

GAME: Clanga rolls 1d10+10: (6)+10: 16

GAME: Clanga damaged Alteri for 16 points. 35 remaining.

Cesran looks at Alteri, "I'll tell you later." He extends his hand and a pair of blue magic missiles fly out of his hands and head towards the son to hit him square on. He wonders what is still driving the men to attack them, "Hey! Look! She was a horrible monster. We don't have to fight now."

The Fighter has clearly indentified herself as the most serious threat, and the Son responds accodringly. The bastard sword lashes out, the first blow returning the violent favor on Alteri white the second comes very close to causing even more damage, but is stopped by her currais.

<OOC> Clanga says, "Teppus"

<OOC> Teppus kicks RL some more. Okay. Now that the hag is down, I am going to go back and hit the Son, nonlethal.

GAME: Teppus rolls 1d20+4: (19)+4: 23

<OOC> Clanga says, "Hit!"

GAME: Teppus rolls 2d4+6: (2)+6: 8

<OOC> Clanga says, "Still not down, but getting there."

<OOC> Clanga says, "And... perceptions everyone"

GAME: Alteri rolls Perception: (18)+7: 25

GAME: Cesran rolls perception: (4)+2: 6

GAME: Sharna rolls Perception: (13)+14: 27

"Hey! Dammit! You.. what is WITH these people?" Teppus is flustered. And upset. He nearly breaks the haft of the guisarme he carries across the back of the 'son'. He's not happy about how *Any* of this is going down.

GAME: Teppus rolls Perception: (19)+1: 20

<OOC> Clanga says, "Yeah Teppus sees it too"

<OOC> Teppus says, "My dice have been Unjinksed."

<OOC> Teppus says, "But they'll soon be jinked by Jinks once again."

<OOC> Clanga looks at numbers... let me adjust that pose folks.

You are distracted by fighting mister mulinex... but everyone but Cesran sees the Hag's body suddenly hoist into the air and hang there limply, as if carried over one shoulder by an invisible form. The guard steps between you and the body. You also see 2 Skeletons Flanking the Body.

<OOC> Clanga says, "Didn't realize Green Hags have a 19str"

<OOC> Clanga says, "And yes Cesran, your rolls let you know... Skeletons and Green Hags mean a Coven or at least 3 of them..."

<OOC> Alteri says, "We came in through one door. There's another door? Or are they like, circling around us?"

<OOC> Clanga says, "You guys passed Lara to get to the son. This is behind you"

<OOC> Clanga says, "*Coven of at least 3..."

<OOC> Cesran says, "SO near me?"

<OOC> Clanga says, "Yes, right on the other side of the Guard standing beside you."

<OOC> Clanga says, "WHen you notice it."

<OOC> Clanga says, "Sharna, you're up"

<OOC> Sharna says, "I wail on this guy some more cause he's KILLING US and go all WTF at the image before me. But I think the musclemenz are better to... save the corpse."

<OOC> Sharna says, "Or rather, unconscious body."

<OOC> Sharna says, "Actually. I've a better idea. I'll try talk reason into this guy with Diplomacy, if I may."

<OOC> Sharna says, "We could use a big guy with a sword on our side. XD"

<OOC> Clanga says, "You can try diplomacy, but when his 'Girlfriend' turned into a Hag he didn't flinch like Daddy Dearest."

<OOC> Teppus says, "O.o"

<OOC> Clanga says, "Roll Diplomcay"

<OOC> Sharna says, "I think I'll try. Maybe he's just dumb. :("

GAME: Sharna rolls Diplomacy: (7)+10: 17

<OOC> Clanga says, "No."

<OOC> Clanga says, "It's clear he's not listening seriously."

<OOC> Clanga says, "Alteri"

<OOC> Alteri WTFs at the sight, but a guy is waving a sword in her face, she full attacks him, nonlethal, PA.

<OOC> Clanga says, "Yeah go for it."

"HEY! HEY! You with the armor and the muscles! We're not here to fight you! See that?!" Sharna tries to plead to whatever shreds of reason remain with the Count's son. "See that?! You've been tricked!" she goes, a blackjack pointing at the hag being hauled away. There's a pause. The man doesn't seem to be stopping. "TALK TO HIM!" she screeches, in the general direction of the Count himself.

GAME: Alteri rolls 1d20+13-4: (6)+13+-4: 15

GAME: Alteri rolls 1d20+13-4-5-2: (6)+13+-4+-5+-2: 8

<OOC> Alteri says, "Two whiffs."

<OOC> Clanga says, "Indeed. Cesran you're up, and have no idea about the Bodynapping behind you."

<OOC> Cesran says, "Even with Sharna's see that?"

<OOC> Clanga says, "Sure, that will do it. Feel free to notice the Cover Mate"

The son's sword finds its mark on Alteri and she feels a warmth seeping out of her to stain her gambeson. Intent on beating the stubborn son into submission, her attention gets sidetracked by the unlikely sight of the hag floating in thin air, flanked by... are those skeletons? Gods. Distracted beyond her ability to withstand, her blade swings wide on both her attempts.

<OOC> Cesran says, "Cast see invisibility as my bond spell"

<OOC> Clanga says, "Sure. Two Hags invisible... one carying the 3rd Hag, the other looking ready to evicerate anyone who gets past the human and skeleton guards.. but backing up."

GAME: Clanga rolls 1d20+14: (2)+14: 16

GAME: Clanga rolls 1d20+9: (8)+9: 17

Cesran wonders what Sharna is showing able and he looks behind him. He sees the Hag's body rising up in the air and he swears softly. He backs up away from the floating hag and he casts a spell. His eyes start to glow as he gains sight beyond sight. "There are two more green hags and they don't look happy."

The son is actually a bit surprised at the sight himself, and his own strikes seem to be affected much as Alteri's, but he doesn't seem to show any sign of stopping.

<OOC> Clanga says, "Teppus"

<OOC> Clanga says, "BTW Folks, if it's getting late for you guys, I can sum the rest of this up in one pose."

<OOC> Sharna says, "I'm fine for a little while yet, personally."

<OOC> Alteri is good for another hour or so before she heads off to work.

<OOC> Teppus says, "I'm good to go. Just brain dead tonight, truthfully. Sorry. Back now."

<OOC> Clanga nods, "Your turn Teppus. Just the son unless you want to brave the guard wall to take on the Hags.

<OOC> Teppus says, "...I think I'll bash the son again, yeah. :P"

GAME: Teppus rolls 1d20+4: (9)+4: 13

<OOC> Teppus says, "And fail!"

<OOC> Clanga says, "Sharna you're up. The guards aren't doing anything, the body is drifting up stairs, and the son is killing"

<OOC> Sharna says, "As much as I'd love to go finish the hag off, I give the son a bashing around the ears, annoyed at him being a doofus. :("

<OOC> Sharna says, "With blackjacks. Full attack!"

<OOC> Clanga says, "Bash Away"

GAME: Sharna rolls 1d20+4+5+2-2: (10)+4+5+2+-2: 19

GAME: Sharna rolls 1d20+4+5+2-2: (18)+4+5+2+-2: 27

GAME: Sharna rolls 1d6+1+3d6: (2)+1+(13): 16

<OOC> Clanga says, "And he drops."

<OOC> Clanga says, "It's late for me, I am going to do a pose for what happens next, then head to bed."

<OOC> Clanga says, "After Sharna's pose"

<OOC> Cesran says, "okay"

<OOC> Alteri says, "Aight. :3"

<OOC> Cesran says, "Thank you for the rp"

"Dammit, they're getting -away-!" Sharna wails as the body is dragged further and further up the staircase. "DO SOMETHING!" is directed at the stricken Count, who's presumably standing there slack-jawed. Fueled by pure anger and annoyance at the situation, only fueled as one of her blackjacks finds nothing but armor, her follow-up attack is vicious enough to crumple a loose plate and give the son's kidney a jolting powerful enough to go right up his spine and into his brain. His eyes roll to the back of his head and he collapses in a clatter of steel.

"What the hell do you want me to do? I don't think I can get to them," says Teppus, trying to bring the son down as well so that they can make a move as a group. "We'll stop them. Just take care of this idiot first." But the son's armor is still too much for Teppus, for the moment. Frustration burns in his expression.

The 3 Guard, lviing and unliving, don't stop you for long, but long enough. When you reach the top of the stairs to the kitchen, it is filled with thick, billowing smoke that is hard to see and breath in (Cesran can ID it as Pyrotechnics). WHen you open the door a wicked sound voice says, "We know you will bring more, so we will leave this area." Then the door at the top of the stairs is closed with a very solid thump. By the time you find your way throught the smoke to the door, all three Hags are gone, even to Cesran's invisibility sight.

<OOC> Clanga says, "Sorry to cut it short. Z_Z"

<OOC> Clanga says, "Though Honestly, the other 2 Hags were mostly tossed in so we didn't have to deal with you capturing the first one. ;) You win, but it's less hastle"

<OOC> Alteri says, "It's too bad Spike couldn't make it. She would've been like, 'I barrel into the floating body!'."

<OOC> Cesran says, "Thank you for the scene again Clanga"

<OOC> Sharna says, "She would. That would have been EPIC."

<OOC> Cesran says, "Do we get the book back?"

And yes, the book is recovered, and the Count will get the therapy he needs. His son has to be locked up, with far more therapy than the father.

<OOC> Clanga says, "Yeah, I hope she's okay."
[[Category:Logs]]

Overdue

2012-01-26T22:56:13Z

Teena:

Overdue

2012-01-26T22:53:30Z

Teena: Created page with "Overdue - PrC --------------------------------------- Plotmaster - Clanga -------------------------------------- PCs Spike - Barbarian 3 Alteri - Fighter 6 Sharna - Rogu..."

Overdue - PrC
---------------------------------------

Plotmaster - Clanga

--------------------------------------

PCs

Spike - Barbarian 3

Alteri - Fighter 6

Sharna - Rogue 6

Teppus - Fighter/Paladin 3

Cesran - Wizard 4

________________________________

MONSTERS

Assassin Vine - CR 3

The job for the adventurer's guild has brought you to the City Library. Not the Academy of Sages, not the University, not one of the Temples. The plain old City Library, which is still an impressive structure, if not as regal as the better funded Locals. You all have arrived at the appointed time and are met by one of the Under Librarians. The young boy of maybe 15 years gulps notably at your armor and weaponry, but leads you quickly inside and to a side antechamber. "Master K'nan will be with you in a moment." The room is bare save for a long table stained with ink, drink and food and a half score of sturdy wooden chairs.

<OOC> Spike says, "There's always a chair at the beginning."

GAME: Spike rolls disguise: (14)+2: 16

GAME: Cesran rolls perception: (11)+2: 13

<OOC> Teppus says, "I am going to make you buy ranks in disguise at this rate, Spike."

Spike is relatively behaving herself. For now. Then again, those who know her well probably catch the weighted, sidelong glances at the chairs. Still, it would be bad form to break cover. She came in her best 'scholars' robes' today. Big, poofy hood. A large overly heavy book (full of doodles) in a free hand, and a long fake mustache that curls out of the shadows of her hood. "Mmm. Yes. A library. We scholars enjoy libraries. Quite." She twirls the ends of the mustache.

<OOC> Spike says, "It's funnier that I'm bad at it. :("

Known more for slicing things than reading them, Alteri still manages to look not -too- out of place in the scholarly confines of the City Library. Yet, with the sword and guisarme strapped across her back, she certainly isn't here to pore over tomes with tea and crumpets. Unable to help the boy's nervousness, she simply nods silently to his words. Bad enough that he has to deal with the mustached golem. Clearing her throat, she unobstrusively toes the chair closest to Spike a little further away from the somewhat-disguised contruct.

<OOC> Teppus says, "But you keep rolling good! :("
<OOC> Spike says, "Not my fault! If your dice would quit working when they're supposed to..."

Cesran loves the library and the smell of old books, knowledge written down ready and waiting to be unlocked if one can find the tome one is looking for. He gives a kind smile to the young boy, "Thank you for your assistance." He glances over at the other scholar and he shakes his head with a heavy sigh.

"Don't." Sharna asides to the enormous, spiky golem - whatever clever disguise she happens to be in - upon noting the sort of look Spike's giving the chairs. In fact, she grabs one, louging in it and giving it a little pat. "See? These are the -nice- ones." Glassy, glassy smile. She just called a chair nice, and she did not merely mean to indicate its comfort or design.
Perhaps strangely, she seems rather at home here. How the one with the most (well, second-most) chance to stick out like a sore thumb isn't doing so is anyone's guess.

It is a bit longer than a moment, but you are not left to wait long before 'Master K'nan' comes in. The barely white robes constrast quite starkly with orange skin, for K'nan is a Arvek Nar. His hair matches his robes, and is kept in a long tail down his back. Though he has large thick glasses and uses a Cane he moves with a strong stride that isn't quite a march, though he stops at the head of the table at almost attention. "Thank you all for coming. I must admit I do not have a chance to work with such.. freelancers as yourselves often. Frankly I cannot afford it. But it seems I have a patron who is willing to foot the bill." He doesn't sit down but instead glances at each of you in turn.

Spike points at her eyes, and then at the chair Alteri toes away. The message is clear: I'm watching you. Still, when Sharna /defends/ the chair, she hisses,"How do I know you're not just in league... with THEM." She opens her big heavy book and pretends to write in it as the man talks. In reality, she is drawing pictures of playful kittens. "MMM. YES. QUITE."

And Teppus is here, of course, at the Library. He's probably not used to being i na place like this and he nods towards the boy in question. "Right," he says. And then he sees Spike and his epression just fills with dread. DREAD. The chair hating golem. Noooo! Well, okay.

Cesran bows his head respectfully to Master K'nan, whatever his race Cesran has a respect for those who are the keepers of books and knowledge, "I am happy to be of service to you Master K'nan. How can we be of assistance to you?" He tries to ignore the war golem's antics.

"Because you know I'm nice." Sharna replies to Spike with a beaming smile and words nobody in the world - except possibly Spike - will buy. Without missing a beat, she turns the smile at the Arvek Nar, nodding a greeting. "What can we do for you today, Master K'nan?" she asks, pleasantly. "Don't mind the golem. It's... special." she whispers, knowing full well Spike will have not a blessed clue who she's talking about. And even then might simply take it as a compliment.

The Hob glowers slight at the 'Scholar' over the rim of his glasses, but then clears his throat. "Count Folgrin is one of Alexandria's landowners. His estate is located about a week's journey by horse south east of here. The Count is a noted historian, especially about matters related to the Sorceress Wars, but his real interests lie in the more... peripheral stories of the time. The Count was on hand during the Ill fated Peace Confrence Six years ago, and evacuated into the city with most of the rest of the people. As a result, his estate was without his guidance for the five years that Alexandria was missing. Needless to say he returned to his estates soon afterwards, and he has not been heard from since. The farmers and the nearby town are still active, but my reports from the Merchants is that the Count's mansion is haunted."

"Haunted," repeats Teppus with some doubt in his tone. "Right. Haunted. And I suppose we're off to deal with the mess, eh? All right." He glances towards the others one by one. He meets their eyes when a chance arises and gives a nod of greeting. Seems like he's more or less ready to go.

"Haunted mansion. You hear that, Spikington? We're going to go to a spooky, possibly haunted mansion." Sharna asides to Spike. Pause. "The robes look nice on you." Did we mention she's a -liar-? She's a liar. "The moustache really adds..." A hand waves expressively. "... a special something, too."

Smile bright as sunlight. Beam. BEAM. She turns it on Teri and Teppus, too, as she nods them pleasant acknowledgement and greeting at long last.

Prudently deciding not to get between offending chairs and Spike, Alteri instead steps away, pale eyes glancing over the rest who have gathered. Her head dips slightly in silent greeting to the rogue, before her gaze settles on Teppus. Expression hardening, she glares a bit at the bald fellow, but turns her attention back to the Arvek Nar when Sharna addresses him. A grave nod accompanies the half-Mul's words; Spike -is- very special. The Hob's outlining of why they have been gathered sets a line to crease between the Eldanar's brows. She gives a thoughtful 'hngh' and shifts her shoulders under the weight of her weapons, "Any relatives?" Sharna's blatant fibbing gains the rogue a bit of an eyeroll, though the fighter remains intent on the Hob. Details. Details are good.

Spike snaps her book closed now, and declares,"Clearly, there is no time for kittens. We've got a haunted mansion to explore!" Also,"Oh yeah. I forgot you were nice. Nice people don't lie." Clearly. Just as clearly,"I'll need a new disguise.... I'll need my junior detective's kit! Also, where is this golem I'm always hearing so much about... Oh boy, oh boy... A haunted mansion, we are SO lucky."

Cesran is paying rapt attention to Master K'nan as they are getting the mission brief. He nods as he is thinking back to the history and knowledge that he knows about the Count and the history surrounding the Sorceress Wars and any peripheral stories of the time that he might know. He hmms, "And you wish us to find out what happened to the Count?"

K'nan nods to Teppus' reaction, "While you might indeed have to 'deal with the mess', the task I am hiring you for, the one that my Patron is paying you for, is a Book." He draws out a roll of paper, sliding it down the table toward Cesran, "The book is known as the 'Depths of Madness' a fanciful title for a rather boring, if unique book. The book itself is written in Aquan, and is a collection of stories about the Merfolk Coves around Alexandria during the Sorceress War. Despite what many believe, the Merfolk actually had much difficulties from Charn and Altima." He nods to the paper, "The Depths of Madness is titled with the Sygil you see there."

Alteri gnaws contemplatively on her bottom lip. Lifting a callused hand, she asks, "Pardon. Has it been confirmed that the Count is... no longer with us?" Delicacy from fighter. Who'd have thunk? Or perhaps, she is simply trying to make up for Spike's enthusiasm over the whole idea of a haunted mansion. She does lift an earnest brow of inquiry at the Hob, however.

"Don't think much of anything sounds confirmed at the moment," replies Teppus to Alteri with a grimace. He glances from side to side, once, but an eye is kept on Spike. An eye is always going to be kept on Spike, though. She's Spike.
Spike taps her chin thoughtfully,"Who's hiring us anyway? You're very ominously avoiding naming him. In Gobber-Girl Detective, #21, that was foreshadowing of a mysterious benefactor turned malefactor."

Cesran nods a little bit as he leans over the table and he studies the scroll memorizing what was on it. He has not learned the languages of elements yet as he is still mastering the ancient language of the elves. He nods as he finishes looking at the scroll, "May we take this with us or do you wish to keep this scroll?" He looks towards Master Knan, "And if the Count is still alive and doesn't wish to give up the book?"

The Arvek nods to the questions, "As for Relatives, I know that the Count is a widower, and that his Youngest Son died in Sendor. His eldest son stayed behind at the estate when he...." The hob pauses, glowers more at Spike, then resumes, "His eldest son stayed behind at the Estate during the Conference. I understand his daughter is still in the city, and that she's awaiting some sort of news, but she doesn't have much in the way of funds to finance such a mission." He smiles to Cesran, "You may keep the scroll, I just penned it this morning. As for the Book, it actually belongs to the Library. The count had borrowed it for some research and was supposed to return it when he had a chance."

Still smiling in that pleasant, business-like fashion she's so good at, Sharna leans forwards to look at and commit to memory the book's title. Or, well, marking upon the cover. Those who know her well may notice a hidden relief there. Retrieval mission, not undead cleaning. Killing undead is always rather unsavory. The others have covered the question bases, so she remains silent for the immediate moment.

Spike leans over and murmurs to Sharna,"One gold bet that the employer is totally evil." She starts stripping off her robe, and begins searching for her detective's cap and bubble pipe.

"Aquan. Depths of Madness. Got it. Why does this not sound promising no matter what you're telling us?" Teppus is sounding not exactly thrilled by some of the details, honestl, but he does give a nod. "ALl right. We'll see about getting this book back and dealing with any horrible things that've sprouted up. Haunted. Never a promisign sign." He lets out a sigh.

Forgetting her animosity towards Teppus for a moment, Alteri directs a troubled look towards the Serrielite. "Then it behooves us to confirm it, and if required, give his remains a proper path to the Dread Lady." She falls silent then, curious as to what revelations Spike and Cesran's questions bring. A sharp nod greets the Arvek's helpful answers. "That settles it." she murmurs to herself. Then, Teppus gets another hard look, "Getting the book AND seeking answers to the Count's fate." she states, firmly.

K'nan nods to the agreements, "I have arranged with a local trader who's heading out that way to carry you. By Airship it should only take you half a day, putting you in the village around high sun. From there you are on your own. I know the Count's mansion is in the woods to the south of the Town, but little more than that."

"We'll ask for directions once there." Sharna agrees, hopping to her feet in most adroit fashion. "You're not forgetting any relevant information we might need?" she asks, sweetly, of their employer-by-extension. "No? Alright." Turning to her fellow adventurers, the dark-skinned elfkin nods pleasantly. She's good to go, it seems.

The mention of an Airship has Alteri squaring her jaw; she is obviously not a fan of that mode of transport but will do what she must. Her eyes settle on Spike and Sharna. The both of them, on a ship, together. She takes a moment to pinch the bridge of her nose. "I hope that Airship is a large one." she mutters to herself.

Spike for her part merely lets out an overjoyed and confidence-inspiring,"Oh boy! I haven't been on one of those since I got kicked off one of those!"

"..." That's the response to Spike that Teppus gives. One hand's palm is pressed slowly into his face.

Alteri merely pinches the bridge of her nose even harder.

The hob gives a smile at Alteri's comment, "It's an empty Merchantman on an outbound trip to collect the last of the Grain the city has picked up. It should be sufficiently large. He will be on the return trip two days after he drops you off. If you aren't ready by then, you'll have to get back on foot." He straightens and nods, "Serriel be with you."

Cesran looks over the scroll and he could use a spell to find out what the sigel means, but when he hears that they will be using an airship he knows that he doesn't have the time to refresh his spells. He nods, "Thank you for all the information." He nods politely as he rolls up the scroll and he puts it in his scroll case.

"I'm sure it'll do just fine. When are we setting off?" Sharna asks of the hobgoblin. Hey, they need to pack at least basic provisions, if nothing else. "By the way, Grumpy, it's nice to see you around these parts again." she asides to Alteri - thankfully quietly enough not to cause the unfortunate nickname to spread. Sometimes, she IS nice. But only sometimes.

"'Course," is what Teppus says to the Hob with a grin, "We have the same interests, you and I." And with that, he's pretty much ready to go. He's got his stick with a blade on it and, from there, seems eager to get a move on.

K'nan manages not to salute. "The ship leaves on the hour. I have taken the liberty of arranging for a weeks worth of provisions for you. It is allready onboard." And with that he turns and heads to the door, "Dock 16 folks. On the hour."

Spike meanwhile chatters on,"Good. I'm hungry. I hope they have saur-steak! Ooooh. A boat. I haven't been swimming in forever!" Endless chatter. "Especially not air-swimming! I'm really bad at this!"

Alteri gives K'nan a small incline of her torso, angular features stretching into a thin smile, "She'd better be." comes her dry response. "And, no offense, Master K'nan, but I'd like to check on the provisions for mounts 'ere we set sail." Sharna's nickname has her scowling then. Menacingly, she approaches the rogue. At the last moment, the Highborn simply brushes past, murmuring to the elfkin, "Do us a favour and see if there're sedatives that work on golems. Else, I'm making her your ward." Scrubbing wearily at her face, she sets out to prepare for the trip out, trying not to register what Spike is saying about air-swimming.

Spike pipes up happily,"Last time I went air-swimming, the nice captain tied a rope from me and dangled me beneath the ship and told me I could swim ALL I wanted! He told the truth, too! I swam the whole way!"

The provisions are adequate, and you have just enough time to buy a bit extra if you want before the ship leaves. The flight is uneventful, without any excessive crosswinds or unnatural explosions coming from the boiler. As the sun reaches it's Zenith, the airship sets down just outside a town that the Captain informs you is called 'Tan's Rest'. The town is on the north side of a small river, with farms radiating outwards from there. The southside of the river is heavily wooded, and on the way down you can barely make out the top of two small towers that are probably the mansion, though your vantage point doesn't give much indication of how to get from here to there. There are a number of people standing beside the barn the airship lands beside, and they begin to roll out wagons of hay bales as the side of the ship folds open. An older male approaches you on a crutch, "Welcome to Tansrest.. what might a group such of yourself be needing around here." The other townfolks are guiding you warily.

Looking slightly worse for wear, because who wouldn't, cooped up in a limited space with Spike -and- Sharna, Alteri leads her blue roan down the gangplanks with care. "I know Stupid, I know." she mumbles tiredly to her mare who tosses its mane in relief to be on solid ground once more. Bowing slightly to the older male, the Highborn rakes her sable bangs out of bloodshot eyes, "Fair weather, good master. We seek the mansion of a Count who lives south of here. Know you the directions thence?"

Hey, Sharna's been behaving!

"There's a manor around here we've been told is possibly trouble. We're here to give it a look and see what's what." Sharna says brightly to the old-timer that approaches. Nope, not mentioning any books or promising they'll make it right, there! She's nodding, soulfully, at Alteri's words. "Don't suppose you could help us? We could use a map, at the very least." she adds, smiling prettily.

Spike hasn't been behaving. If the fact that she's got fingerpaint markings on her is any indication. Or maybe she has, and someone suggested fingerpaints to keep her occupied. At any rate, she has her junior detective cap, bubble pipe, and BIG WEAPON with her. "We're ghost-hunting! I... am a detective. We are catagorically unfrightened by any and all discorporeal beings of an otherworldly disposition."

"What they said," says Teppus, gesturing at Sharna and Alteri. Notably, he does not gesture at Spike. He doesn't even want to bei n thje same room as Spike, really! He's not liking his chances of that last part much, however.

The old man nods unsurprized at the request, though he seems a bit sad and resigned, "The woods to the sound have grown wild and feral since Count Folgrin vanshed. None who have entered the woods have returned, not even the COunt himself. We all know roughly where it is, but no one in town or the farms is willing to risk the woods." He nods in the direction of the river, where you see a small Cart Bridge over it, "Your journey starts there, and the Mansion /should/ be due south."

"Feral, huh? Well, that's lovely," replies Teppus, dryly, "Maybe we'll have to stab some wildlife." He lets out a sigh, then adds, "Right, though. We'll get a move on." And iwht that, he's eager to get a move on.

Spike frowns,"Should. Do you expect it to get up and go somewhere. Oh, Gods. It's a walking mansion, isn't it? It'll take forever to catch. Tell me... does it have dog legs, or bird legs?" She whispers as an aside to Sharna,"Bird-legged homes are the most temperamental."

"I hope you're still sharp far as woods go. I don't think I wanna get lost in there." Sharna asides to Alteri. She absently - but carefully, there's SPIKES - reaches out to give Spike a soothing pat on the head (it requires standing on tiptoes), not really fully registering what the golem's blathering.

Cesran follows after the others onto the ship and he enjoys the rid on the air ship. He follows after the others as they get off the air ship. He hmms softly as he looks around and he looks to Spike, "I doubt the mansion has legs. Let's find this book."

GAME: Cesran rolls knowledge/geography: (10)+9: 19

<OOC> Clanga says, "Regarding Geography. While the woods is natural for this area, between the farmland and the coast, the fact that the road has vanished in only 5 years is both odd and unnatural. You should be able to find your way south without much difficulty though"

Glancing to the bridge the old man indicates, Alteri nods, "Should be, hmm?" She offers him a faint smile, pressing a coin into his gnarled hand, "Our thanks for your help, and honesty." She makes a final check of her mount's tack and saddlepacks, transferring her baldrics to her saddle's pommel for the duration of their ride. Finally done fussing (though she'll cut you if you dare suggest that she was) with her beloved mare, she straightens and glances to her companions to see if all are prepared to set out. Noting the fingerpainted golem, she pauses to wet a square of linen, handing it to Spike, "There's some paint getting in the way of your detectiveness." With the offer of linen still held out, she gives Sharna a small, 'we'll see' shrug. A faint twinkle in her eye shows that she knows this is hardly a reassuring thing.

Cesran looks around to get his bearings and he hmmms softly, "Well that is interesting, there should be some kind of road, but it appears as if nature has been accelerated to overgrow it." He turns himself southward, "Well this is the way south shall we go?"

Spike oooh's out loud, then takes the hanky to wash herself,"Thanks! Detecting is important business, you know?" She washes the paint away, then gets out her big scythe and begins making air-chopping motions with it. "Step aside! I shall clear the brush! I have farming experience!"

<OOC> Clanga says, "Survival Rolls from those who wish to make them. Perception rolls for the rest."

GAME: Sharna rolls Perception: (7)+13: 20

GAME: Alteri rolls Survival: (9)+7: 16

GAME: Cesran rolls survival: (2)+2: 4

GAME: Spike rolls perception: (13)+7: 20

GAME: Cesran rolls perception: (10)+2: 12

<OOC> Clanga says, "Cesran, one or the other. But neither was enough."

<OOC> Cesran says, "Ah. yah neither is good"

The trip into the forest is as simple as crossing the bridge and passing under the leaves. While the light fades due to the canopy, there is still plenty enough to see by. For the keey eyed of you, it's possible to see the original path in places where the underbrush hasn't overgrown it. What is scary is the trees that look like they have been around for decades that dominate the roadway in places.

GAME: Teppus rolls Perception: (8)+1: 9

<OOC> Teppus flex.

<OOC> Teppus says, "Sorry about that. I hda to help my folks with dinner stuff. :)"

Ever alert around Spike, for woe she who is not, Alteri hops adroitly over the scythe's blade, "Most welcome," she mutters around a tight smile. Trying not to notice the looks the townspeople are giving their group, the Eldanar swings up into her saddle, kneeing Stupid onwards. Sable brows drawn, she squints at the growth and trees saying one thing, versus what common wisdom might dictate. "For a road that should've been kept clear, at least up until five winters back, these trees make no sense." she notes. Whinneying and sidestepping, Stupid reflects its mistress' discomfort, pristine snow crunching under the mare's steel-shod hooves
It is always good to keep an eye on Spike, that's for sure. Teppus is busily moving alogn with the others, seeming to be on his guard. Crunch crunch goes the forest floor beneath his boots.

Cesran after pointing the general direction is more than happy to let others lead the way. He continues to look around the forest as he follows after the others.

"I really kind of dislike forests." Sharna mutters into her chin. She's on foot for once, not stealing Alteri's horse (even if she did sneak her a sugarcube and patting), and is looking around in a manner that suggests she is rather discomforted by the surroundings. Wary. "Especially -this- forest." is muttered.

About five minutes into the woods, there is a figure standing on the 'path' near a tree. She is not trying to hide, though it's a bit hard to see her at first. The young woman, maybe 20 at most, steps out as she sees you, "My name is Lara. I was a friend of Jennia's before the City Vanished." She looks around the forest, "There are Fey to the East of here that cause this overgrowth, to destroy the road dominate the forest and keep people out. But there's another path to the Mansion, a quarter mile to the west of here, that is an old deer trail that the Fey didn't touch."

Spike confides in Sharna as she expresses dislike of trees,"This is only natural. After all... they are BREEDING GROUNDS for chairs, you see." Still, when the girl mentions the old deer trail, she wonders,"How do we know you aren't fey. And why didn't they touch it? Also, why are you all the way out here. And what city?" She looks at Sharna and whines,"Someone skipped ahead in the novel. I'm missing clues."

Cesran pauses as the figure makes herself known. "And what are you doing out here now Lara? Who is Jennia?" He tries to look closely at her to determine if she is a ghost or not. "Why would the Fey want to keep others out of the Mansion?"

The woman seems quite real and solid, "They don't care about the Mansion... or they think it's haunted... it might be I don't know." She shakes ehr head, "I helped the Count get to the Mansion the same way, but I don't dare go inside... it scares me."
"These Fey," says Teppus with a frown, "Can they be reasoned with? We people have a right to go through here. It makes sense that they've said this place has become feral and dangerous." This clearly concerns a Serrielite, honestly!

Cesran nods a little bit, "Than what are you doing here in the forest in the middle of no where just waiting for someone to come along? Why aren't you back at the village?"

Sharna doesn't quite startle, but her body does coil a tiny bit more, defensively. Give a girl a break, she's already tense. Azure eyes narrow a bit at the woman. She's clearly not a very trusting type, and this seems like an awful lot of lined-up coincidences. And hey, anyone could claim to be anyone, long as they do it convincingly enough! ... She'll have to try that sometime. 'Queen of Charn' might be a nice one to try sell. Still, she stills her tongue for the moment.

Longsufferingly, the Highborn bore Sharna's repeated attempts to steal her mare's affections, only giving the half-elf a stinkeye for even trying. Again. Reining her horse in, Alteri regards Lara with a carefully neutral expression, saying nothing in-lieu of letting the young woman answer to Cesran's questions. That expression sharpens, however, when it comes to light that the woman was perhaps, the last to see the Count alive. Aside to Spike, she says with deceptive lightness, "Looks like this novel is thicker than we thought."

Spike raises an eyebrow and blows a breath at Alteri,"She's clearly an evil plant. Here to lead us to the deathtrap mansion. It's alright, though! I have my pipe and magnifying glass!" Well... if, by magnifying glass, she means perfectly normal glass placed inside a hand magnifier. She blows on her pipe a bit. She peers at the girl suspiciously. Puffpuff.

"I wasn't waiting for 'someone'. I saw you get off the airship, and knew that this is where you would be going. I went this far in so that the Villagers didn't see me. If they knew I go into the woods, they would shun me, or worse." A shiver goes through the girls frame. "I don't know alot about the Fey. I know that they hold their 'court' east of here, and that they don't want humans cutting down 'their' woods. But they forget that we humans don't always destroy, which is why the trail is still there. They didn't think of us using natural paths."

Cesran hmms softly, "Why would they shun you for going into the woods? What do you know about the mansion that lies beyond the woods?"

"Uh huh," says Teppus. "Well, much as I'd like a word with these fey," he adds, "I can't really say we should head there right off. So you're a friend, eh?" Trusting Teppus nods his head, giving her a once over.

<OOC> Teppus says, "Detect evil, Clanga, targetted on her. Just in case. xD"

"It's dark and creepy and I heard screams from inside the first time I witnessed it." She answers the first question second, "They believe the Forest is cursed, and that anyone who comes out of it must be an evil witch." She laughs at her comment.

Alteri has a minor doubletake, needing a moment to consider if Spike means 'evil plant' as in foliage or something less literal. Given the golem's views on trees and all. As the questions to Lara pile up, the Eldanar clears her throat and unfairly uses her higher vantage point to try and gain the young woman's attention. "Thankful as we are for your directions, I hope if offends you not if I ask you to give us a detailed description of Jennia. The tales we have heard, yours included, are troubling, you understand."

Sharna gives Alteri an 'I'll explain later' look at her puzzlement with Spike and her seeming lack of making sense. Evil plant. Indeed.

Still, the elfkin remains silent, not really having much to add to that which Teppus and Cesran are already asking about. Stupid gets an absent-minded pat, because she's there.

<OOC> Clanga says, "Yes, she is evil."

<OOC> Teppus says, "Okay. :)"

So Teppus says, "Yes, we'll go with you," to the girl before leaning over to Alteri and murmuring something to her, casually. He'll also casually stop by the others. He's a paladin, though, so marching straight at evil's trap to smash it in the face is his plan.

<OOC> Teppus says, "Also, he's murmuring, "She's going to lead us into a trap -- let's go with her and break her with it'."

The woman nods with a smile and heads west. It doesn't take very long before you come out on the promised deer path. So far everything she's said is true. "Whatever is in the Mansion, I think the Fey fear it, for their forest stops about a hundred paces, though it's clear they could send it right up to the edge."

Spike frowns at the woman, then leans over and murmurs to Teppus, gesticulating at the girl wildly.

Cesran hmms, "And why haven't they shunned you before for following the Count into the woods and come back from it?" He looks towards the others to see if they are believing her.

<OOC> Sharna says, "Teppus! I'd like to read your lips/use perception to hear that whispering. Or try to. Is that okay with you? Spike... not so much. Spike never says anything meaningful, right? :("

<OOC> Spike says, "I'm just saying... I was right about the girl."

<OOC> Sharna had to check if it was even possible, it is indeed possible and the DC isn't high either. :(

The lack of Jennia's description from Lara sets Alteri's hackles up. As nonchalantly as she can, the fighter dismounts, only to get Teppus' murmured warning that confirms her suspicions. Signalling Stupid to keep pace with her, she gestures behind her back to Sharna in handspeech, passing the paladin's message along.

<OOC> Clanga says, "Perception checks. You are following her right?"

<OOC> Alteri says, "Yep. Well, Alteri is. Not sure if Sharna will once she gets the message. XD"

GAME: Alteri rolls Perception: (13)+6: 19

<OOC> Spike is. Already believes she are ebil. EBIL.

GAME: Spike rolls perception: (13)+7: 20

GAME: Teppus rolls Perception: (17)+1: 18

GAME: Cesran rolls perception: (2)+2: 4

<OOC> Sharna says, "I don't think Sharna can afford -leaving the only tracker in the group- because of a grump, honestly. XD"

GAME: Sharna rolls Perception: (2)+13: 15

GAME: You clear initiatives.

GAME: Clanga has cleared initiatives.

<OOC> Clanga says, "Initiative please. :)"

GAME: Cesran rolls initiative: Roll: 16 + Bonus: 3 = Total: 19

GAME: Spike rolls initiative: Roll: 3 + Bonus: 2 = Total: 5

GAME: Alteri rolls initiative: Roll: 18 + Bonus: 2 = Total: 20

GAME: Sharna rolls initiative: Roll: 6 + Bonus: 5 = Total: 11

GAME: Teppus rolls initiative: Roll: 11 + Bonus: 1 = Total: 12

GAME: You roll initiative for Plants: Roll: 6 + Bonus: 0 = Total: 6

<OOC> Clanga says, "If you wish to give up the game that you guys are onto her you can."

<OOC> Cesran says, "Will keep quiet than"

GAME: You roll initiative for Animals: Roll: 14 + Bonus: 1 = Total: 15

Current Initiative Order
---------------------------------

20 Alteri

19 Cesran

15 Animals

12 Teppus

11 Sharna

6 Plants

5 Spike

As the group of you proceed down the path, watching the pretty evil girl for signs of trechery, the plantlife to the side of the path attacks. Alteri, Spike and Teppus are not caught completely off guard, but Cesran and Sharna are focusing too much on the guide.

This gnarled vine, as thick as a man's arm and bearing hand-shaped leaves, convulses across the ground in an unnatural slither.

<OOC> Clanga says, "Alteri you're up first"

<OOC> Alteri says, "Right. Being horrid at remembering this stuff, I have to ask if Alteri can draw her sword and PA that slithering thing in one turn."

<OOC> Clanga says, "You can"

<OOC> Alteri says, "I'll do that then. :)"

<OOC> Alteri says, "Right then, Alteri charges for the slithering vine with her BFS."

<OOC> Clanga says, "Okay, swing"

GAME: Alteri rolls 1d20+15: (8)+15: 23

<OOC> Clanga says, "Damage"

GAME: Alteri rolls 1d10+17: (6)+17: 23

<OOC> Clanga says, "Your sword bites deep into the tentacle, which recoils, but it is not cut completely in two. Cesran, you can cast the Mage Armor, or attack the girl, but not the plant."

<OOC> Cesran is the plant restricting my movements?

<OOC> Clanga says, "No, but you only get one action, move or standard"

<OOC> Cesran says, "And I can't attack the plant even though Alteri went before me?"

<OOC> Clanga says, "Right, you werent' expecting that."

<OOC> Cesran says, "I'm good than since I can't see the plants you can skip me."

<OOC> Clanga says, "No Mage ARmor?"

<OOC> Cesran says, "Nah too early I don't want to waste it if we are going to be marching for more than 3 hours after this"

<OOC> Clanga ahs and nods

When the plant attacks, the your evil guide turns and screams like a girl, stepping away from the plant and backing into a large
thick treetrunk.

Walking with that fighter's gait that has her ready to move in any direction required at a moment's notice, Alteri spots the vine's
undulation. Unseeing, she draws her blade on instinct and with a slap at her roan's rump to send her off to safety, immediately
bounds towards the threat. Steel flashing mutely in the forest light, she kicks up a flurry of snow and slices deep into the plant's
(?) appendage. "Get the girl!" she yells over her shoulder. Who knows, Lara might be useful as a bargaining chip, that is, if they
consent to being taken in the first place.

Cesran didn't see the plants coming and before he can do anything the guide screams and backs into a large thick tree trunk. He
swears, "Damn it she's a druid of some kind." He guesses as he finally sees the plants attacking, but it's too late to do anything
for now.

<OOC> Clanga says, "Teppus"

<OOC> Teppus says, "Detect evil on the plant monster (just in case) and then grabbing the girl to act paladinly by threatening her."

<OOC> Teppus :P

<OOC> Clanga says, "DOes DE take an action?"

<OOC> Teppus says, "It's a move action."

<OOC> Clanga says, "Girl is more than 5 feet away."

<OOC> Teppus says, "Okay. I'll advance on the girl and tell her we're on to her and to call off her awful plant monster, since Teppus
would be expecting the same thing."

<OOC> Clanga hmms and nods, "intimidate if you want it."

<OOC> Teppus says, "Want a roll for like intimidate or something? Okay. :)"

GAME: Teppus rolls Intimidate: (20)+9: 29

<OOC> Teppus says, "..."

<OOC> Teppus makes little girls cry.

<OOC> Clanga says, "Okay, you definately succeed at scaring her"

When Teppus sees the horrible plant monster doing its thing, he heaves a sigh. Just that. He then strides closer to the girl,
quickly, grabbing her by one shoulder and leaning down to say into her face. "Cut your act. Call off your creature, girl. *Now*. We
were well aware of the trap you planned to spring on us. I may've forgotten to mention that I'm a paladin with little tolerance for
shenanigans. Call. It. Off."

<OOC> Clanga says, "Sharna, you can't attack the plant yet."

<OOC> Clanga says, "But you have one action"

<OOC> Sharna says, "Well, I was thinking of moving into flank on the plant with Teri, but... I guess I'm just oblivious to the plant
altogether? And Teppus seems to have the girl well in hand. I'll Total Defense."

<OOC> Clanga says, "So far yes"

<OOC> Sharna says, "5' step towards the girl, then, and Total Defense."

<OOC> Clanga says, "Okay, the plant goes. +reflex save 13 eveyrone"

GAME: Spike rolls reflex: (11)+3: 14

GAME: Alteri rolls reflex: (9)+4: 13

GAME: Sharna rolls reflex: (7)+10: 17

GAME: Teppus rolls Ref: (9)+4: 13

GAME: Cesran rolls reflex: (9)+4: 13

The plant tentacle pulls back, then all the plants in the area come to life. You're all experienced enough to recognize an entangle
spell, but it's not coming from the Guide.

<OOC> Clanga says, "Spike"

<OOC> Spike says, "... The girl is clearly an evil witch despite evidence to the contrary. I grab her."

<OOC> Spike says, "If the Paladin is doing it, it must be right."

<OOC> Cesran says, "I thought she disappeared into a tree"

<OOC> Spike says, "Grapple check, oooorrr...?"

<OOC> Clanga says, "Grapple attempt"

<OOC> Clanga says, "Against a Tree, not into it"

GAME: Spike rolls cmb: (9)+8: 17

<OOC> Clanga says, "Failed. She ducks down easily under your grasp"

<OOC> Clanga says, "Alteri"

<OOC> Alteri says, "The spell isn't coming from the guide... Alteri goes for the tentacle plant again."

Spike yells out,"Stop your attack and we promise to hurt the child!" Wait... shouldn't that be 'and we promise not to hurt the
child'?

<OOC> Clanga says, "Swing :)"

GAME: Alteri rolls 1d20+13: (20)+13: 33

<OOC> Spike says, "You beautiful bastard."

<OOC> Clanga sighs. :)

<OOC> Alteri says, "Melyndra is pretty beautiful, and is a bastard. ^_^;"

GAME: Alteri rolls 1d20+13: (17)+13: 30

<OOC> Clanga says, "Yep."

GAME: Alteri rolls +1d10+17: +(6)+17: 23

<OOC> Alteri says, "-6 if PA doesn't apply to the second. I don't recall!"

GAME: Alteri rolls 1d10+17: (9)+17: 26

<OOC> Sharna says, "Woman, it's a crit. Of course it applies. :P"

<OOC> Clanga says, "Well, you cut it off, and the writhing plants fall still..."

The young woman is clearly frightnened by the Paladin's threats, but that doesn't stop her from ducking the Golem's grasping arms,
"Fools, you have just sealed your fate. I will feast on your bones!" And with that she steps down the path a couple feet and
vanishes.

Trying not to be distracted by what Spike is yelling -- Wait, what? -- Alteri shrugs off the entanglement attempt, and, herself
yelling, "There are better ways to find mates!" she sets her corded arms and with a loud grunt, chops inelegantly through the thick
vine. Once, twice, and the pieces fall to lay motionless on the ground.

"Blah blah, fates sealed, bones," says Teppus. He lets out a sigh and then turns towards Alteri, "What, that's it?" he asks after a
moment, his hand on his sword-staff. He's not thrilled about all of this.

Spike plants the butt of her weapon and shouts,"DID I NOT JUST SAY SHE WAS EVIL? The fey want to stop HER, not us. They don't want us

to go to the mansion. Come on! It's Gobber-Girl Detective #43 all over again! Please at least tell me we're burning the mansion
instead of delivering the OBVIOUSLY cursed object or book. I mean, Depths of Madness. And our contact was so nervous. Just burn the
mansion, loot the remains, and solve the mystery."

"We WERE going to take her down, you know! That was just uncalled for!" Sharna says to the engulfing woodland, hopping and spinning
away as the vegetation seeks to entrap her. "Can we stop with the spellwork now?" Pause. "Sorry about your... wriggly... vine...
thing." she adds, as an afterthought. Poor, poor vine.

<OOC> Clanga says, "Anyone who wants can make a +knowledge/nature roll"

GAME: Cesran rolls knowledge/nature: (16)+10: 26

Cesran is able to identify the attacking plant as an Assassin Vine, not Fey relate at all, and not something intelligent enough to be
actively trying to stop anything. It exists to kill and feed. With that in mind, you are able to track down the roots of the Vine,
proving that you are right when the plants in the area come to life again. But without the thick vine bisected by Alteri, it has very
little defense to you digging it up and destroying it fully.

GAME: Teppus rolls Knowledge/nature: Trained Use Only: 0

<OOC> Teppus says, "OH YEAH"

<OOC> Teppus says, "LOVE THEM PALADIN SKILLS"

<OOC> Sharna says, "Pala-dim. :("

<OOC> Sharna says, "You haz skill points! All... 3 of them or so. :("

GAME: Spike rolls knowledge/Paladins-Suck: (19)+knowledge/Paladins+-Suck: 19

<OOC> Spike :D

<OOC> Sharna says, "Spike is well-educated in the subject. :("

Looking up from her inspection of her blade's edges, Alteri quirks a brow at the paladin. "Hardly. Someone who knows Mistress Jennia
wanted us stopped, or captured. Don't know about you, but I'd like to find out who. Did you see which way she went?" Well, her
attention was elsewhere when Lara vanished. "I'm afraid we can't burn it, Spike. If the Count is no more, ownership falls to his
children. It won't be our call." Trust Alteri to be a wet blanket. Cesran's identification of the attacking plant is a boon. Exhaling
while eyeing the destroyed Assassin Vine, the fighter plants the tip of her sword into the ground, "I know what we're burning for
fire if we must make camp."

<OOC> Clanga says, "So... I am going to head out here. If you guys want to RP for a bit on this, I will be leaving the window open
and logging... should be good for an hour."

<OOC> Clanga says, "We'll see what we can arrange for the next part."

<OOC> Teppus says, "Okay. Sounds great to me. :D"

"Rather, knows OF her." Sharna quips at Alteri's words. "She vanished into thin air far as I could see." she supplies as reply to the
more direct inquiry, shoulders lifting, then falling in a shrug. She seems a little put out by being, well, clueless.

<OOC> Alteri says, "Sounds good. Thanks for running the plot!"

<OOC> Spike says, "Indeed! It's been a hoot!"

Spike just stares at Alteri, gape-mouthed,"But... but... Evil. Didn't we just cover that it's evil? I mean... Come on... EVIL!" Then
she goes to collect destroyed vine, and pout. Because that's what she does.

Alteri dips her head, acceding to Sharna's correction, "Point." A small sigh, "Vanishing was rude. All this snow and no tracks to
follow." Trying to placate Spike, the Eldanar lifts a hand, "And Mistress Jennia will be duly informed of that evil... once we
confirm that this," she indicates the dead vine, "extends to the manse itself. It may well be that the Count is being held prisoner in his own home, like a princess in a tower. Unable to leave, only... sing..." She gives a shake of her head, "Apologies, where was I?"

------------------------------------------

PART 2

PCs

Alteri - Fighter 6

Sharna - Rogue 6

Teppus - Fighter/Paladin 3

Cesran - Wizard 4

------------------------------------------

MONSTERS

Green Hag - CR 5

Guards x2 - CR 1 each

Baron's Son - CR 6 (Watch Captain)

When last we left our intrepid heroes they had just defeated an evil vine plant trap that their 'Guide' had lead them to. In the process Spike had lost the Guide and chased after her into the woods, followed soon after by Cesran. The remaining three adventurers are standing on a animal trail that supposedly leads to the mansion of the Baron.

<OOC> Clanga says, "If people show up, they'll find their way back out of the woods to the party."

"'Tis the first bit of foliage I've met with murderous intent," Alteri muses, still curious about the vine they met. Ajusting the lay of her weapons across her back, she squints down the crashed path one spiked individual had disappeared down. "Hope she doesn't fall too hard on our 'guide'. I've yet more questions for her."

"Least it didn't twist my god damn blade into something useless," mutters Teppus. He's still smarting over the fate of his guisarme previous to this when fighting some wolves. Not happy about this, really. Not happy at ALL. But Teppus is still moving with Alteri and Sharna. Grumbly all the while.

"Well, that was... weird." is Sharna's comment on the matter. The girl sheathes her blades, eyeballing the crumpled mess of cut vines, no longer animate and oozing over by the edge of the trail. "Nice job." she asides to Alteri, to whom the vines being so sheared is owed.

The shadowblood glances around the now eerily-silent forest. "So um. Reckon they'll meet us at the manor?" she asks her remaining two companions. Following Spike into the wild woodland? Not her idea of a fun time.

<OOC> Clanga says, "Survival Roll from someone?"

<OOC> Sharna sort of silently points Alteriwards.

<OOC> Alteri says, "Oh, yes."

GAME: Alteri rolls Survival: (3)+8: 11

<OOC> Alteri loses way from city to home. x_x

GAME: Teppus rolls Survival: (2)+1: 3

<OOC> Teppus says, "HEY LOOK MOSS"

The path through the woods that you were following is definately not man-made, but also not hard enough to follow. They meander in a general southward direction, but twist and turn as it circles trees and crosses brooks. Alteri doesn't loose the path itself, but she definately would not be able to find her way forward... or back for that matter... trying to go any other way. It takes about an hour hiking before you start to see a large dark structure through the woods to your right.

At Sharna's aside, Alteri manages to shrug without moving her shoulders, "Got lucky. T'was my preference if we could talk and discern why it wished us harm, but..." she opens one callused paw to face skywards, indicating it is too late now. Her distraction with the mystery of the missing guide has her missing various marks along the path. Apologetic glances are given to the other two when it seems they have gone the touristic route on the way to the manse.

"Stupid forest." Sharna mutters as she trudges, every passing minute making her more miserable.

Aren't elves supposed to like wild, untamed nature? Apparently, this elfkin isn't all that keen on it right now - but at least she's not blaming Alteri for their numerous little detours and spins. Stupid forest indeed, not stupid Eldanar.

"Oh, dear gods, is that it?" Sharna asks when they seem to arrive to their destination, a tiny bit of sunshine and hope in her voice as she lifts a hand to point out the dark structure still hidden by the trees.

"Well. That's got to be it. Right? Please tell me that's it," says Teppus. He's tired of walking. He's been bitten by what seems like an endless number of bugs. He slaps his neck again. Scowls. There is a look of pure hatred for all life on his face right now.

"It is a nice forest," Alteri says in the area's defense. "When it isn't trying to kill us..." she adds after some thought. Not having escaped some bites too, she scritches unobstrusively at one buttcheek. "Sure hope so. We can knock and ask." With a firm nod, she sets out in the direction of the looming structure, already having made the decision to do just that.

It takes a few minutes to find a break in the folliage between the forest and the clearing, but eventually you step fully into the light. The mansion looms before you, mostly stonework unlike those in the city, but clearly not designed for fortification. It also hasn't been tended in years it seems, with paint on the door and sills peeling, the hedges around the property growing wild, and the iron gate out front rusted and hanging open.

"When's any forest that wild NOT trying to kill people in it, though?" Sharna asks, lips still downturned. They've been like that for a while.

Squeezing through into the clearing, muttering to herself, the Mul-blooded girl irritably picks bits and pieces of, well, forest from her clothing and hair. Leaves. Twigs. A flick of fingers at what looks like a very lost and confused beetle. A stray, dry bur is removed from her cloak and then pointedly attached to Alteri's shoulder.

"After you." Sharna says to the Eldanar, motioning manorwards.

A chill wind whips at Alteri's cloak once they reach the clearing, making the added burr shiver and shake where it sits on her shoulder. The crisp cold of the season hits with surprising intensity the moment they leave the hovering protections of the forest, and the Eldanar finds her nose afflicted with a sudden wish to be drippy. Dabbing and blowing at it with her kerchief, she dubiously eyes the rusted gate. "'Tisn't breaking and entering if it's already broken, yes?" she asks Teppus and well, not really Sharna.

Cesran has arrived.

SHortly after you exit into the clearing, you are joined by Cesran, who decided chasing after Spike running blindly through the woods would be a bad idea and returned to the trail you've been following.

"We were sent here by a respectable, concerned Alexandrian society to check this property. We're not doing anything wrong." Sharna says, chipper, totally out of turn and uninvited when it comes to providing said comment, considering Alteri isn't really addressing her. She beams a smile, too, of course, at both her and Teppus.

As you are examining the Gate, you catch a glimpse of your 'Guide' Lara, who's entered the grounds through a side gate and is just entering the mansion on that side of the building. Her simple brown dress looks worse for wear than it did last time you saw her. Clearly her flight into the woods was not smooth."

At least its just Spike. Spike is probably going to be busy harvesting something, somewhere, and no doubt can handle itself. Herself. Itself. Whatever. Teppus, at any rate, has stopped and looked at the front gates and then runs a hand iover the top of his head. "I tend to agree with you," he adds to Alteri. "We need to have ourselves a look here."

Silently shaking her head at Sharna's expected glossing over of anything vaguely unlawful, Alteri takes the burr and sticks it, on the beaming rogue's pale white eyebrow. "So sayeth you." she mutters. Noting the arrival of one of their missing party members, the highborn just bites back a sigh and makes to push open the rusty gate. This is when she catches sight of their 'guide'. Tensing, she goes, "I'm not seeing things, am I? Did our dear guide just enter through the side there?" Voice tight, her pale eyes narrow in a study of this other entrance.

Cesran stays in the back and he just watches now. He looks around and he keeps his own council for the moment as he waits to see what the others will do know that he's joined back up with the group. He's not one to trample through the forest if he doesn't have to.

"Ow!" goes Sharna, immediatelly - and carefully - extracting the bur and tossing it carelessly over a shoulder. Thankfully, her brows are thin enough for the little plant to not really stick all that much.

"Nope. Saw it too." the elfkin confirms Alteri is not hallucinating, in spite of the bur-battle. Had she not seen it, the bur might have ended up tangled in Alteri's hair rather than being discarded. "Reckon we should follow her? See what she's up to? She DID try feed us to a plant thing." Pause. "I think."

The gate is open enough that you don't need to open it further to get inside. The side entrance looks to be for servants to come in and out, and leads to a fallen down wooden stable and small postern door. The entrance into the mansion that the Guide used is not locked, and leads downwards into what should be a root cellar or possibly a kitchen.

"Hm? What?" Teppus, on the other hand, totally missed it. "Wait, what did I miss?" See? He totally missed it.

Nodding grimly, Alteri's feet turn to take her towards the side entrance, one hand snagging Teppus' cloak to help him keep up. "I have burning questions I wish to ask of her." This is all the legal justification the highborn needs, apparently. Wending past overgrown hedges, the warrior looks for that side door. "Gods send it isn't trapped." she mutters, throwing Sharna a look over her shoulder. And it seems it isn't! Taking absolutely no chances, the Eldanar draws her weapon, peering about their surroundings with brows drawn sharply together. From her tenseness, she appears to be expecting the kitchen to come alive and eat them or something.

Creeping more than walking behind the sturdy meat-shield that is the Eldanar, Sharna peers into the gloom. She has her crossbow in hands, a ricketty thing possibly in need of replacement, but still serving. Kind of. When the firing mechanism doesn't jam. Be as it may, she doesn't seem to have words to offer - just a slanted eye and a pointed ear on the lookout for danger.

The root cellar is connected to the kitchen. The kitchen is connected to the... ahem... In the kitchen you notice that there is food that is being prepared, mostly wild animals and vegetables. But there are also signs that animals are not the only thing being eaten... several skulls lay strewn around the kitchen, the most obvious sign of foul activity.

"...well. I think that about settles it, ladies," says Teppus, glancing down at the skulls. He leans down and inspects them for a moment, then readies his guisarme. "I am going to hit something with this. Very hard. And then whatever did this will die."

"OR," Alteri interjects, "Be brought back to face justice." Just because she is good at hitting things, doesn't mean she always seeks the bloodiest way to accomplish goals, honest. "But," and she eyes the skulls, "This isn't looking promising. Those aren't monkey skulls." Setting shoulders broadened by countless hours of weaponswork, the warrior proceeds further on, eyes sweeping for signs of the mansion's inhabitant(s).

Cesran looks towards Sharna, "Nah probably just tendering us up so that we'll be an easy meal." He comments on his way towards the side door and he follows the others in. He makes sure to look over his shoulder to make sure nothing is following them. He looks all around the kitchen and he sees the skull. "Well that looks like the last ones to chase a pretty girl through the forest."

"Reckon she's got a flying broomstick, too?" Sharna whispers to Alteri - though the tone of her voice indicates the joke's more a deflection tactic to try keep away the antsy feeling and chill going up her spine at the thought of someone who, well, might just be munching on people. Reaffirming her grip on the crossbow, she nods at Alteri to lead on.

"...I'm just going to wager a guess that they won't let us bring them back to face justice. Intead, they'll take a nice blade to the face. Hopefully. Mind you, if they surrender, yeah. Face the justice of the law, they will." He lets out a sigh. He's sort of hoping they don't make it easy.

During you brief examination of the room, you hear something from beyond the door to right of the hearth. Not immediately behind the door, but that direction, as opposed to the open doorway leading up opposite the hearth. Its hard to tell, but it sounds vaguely like a room being prepared for a gathering.

Ears pricking, the fighter moves cautiously towards the sounds. Sounds coming from behind... Tt's a door. Mutely standing aside for Sharna, Alteri gives the Mul-blooded a humourless little 'after you' smile and dip of her head. The meat-shield will be of little use here, unless her moderate dexterity is required.

<OOC> Sharna says, "Oh the dreaded doorways. FINE. I check it for traps and/or being locked. And then, assuming I find no traps, peek through the keyhole, if there's one!"

GAME: Sharna rolls Perception+2: (17)+14+2: 33

GAME: Cesran rolls knowledge/religion: (2)+12: 14

<OOC> Clanga says, "No traps, no keyhole, no lock. But you hear a chair scrape on the floor, and the shuffling of booted feet. Not alot."

So, having heard something, Teppus pauses and looks that way. He grimaces. Readies his sword-staff, and begins to head for the doorway in question. Hey. What are paladins good for if not bursting through doorways? He's stopped by Sharna examining things, though.

Moving to the door on tiptoes at Alteri's silent summons, Sharna gives the door a rudimentary inspection. There's a shake of her head, and a motion to signal an all-clear - if there's anything on that door, she isn't finding it. No words - wouldn't want to tip off whoever's shuffling chairs that they're here, after all.

Well then. Still cautious, as cautious as Teppus' paladin-instincts will let her be, Alteri cracks open the door and sidles her armoured form in. Crouched low with weapon held at the ready, she peeks around the door jamb to see what she might see.

<OOC> Clanga says, "Okay, going to ask a few questions, ask for a few rolls, then pose. First off, I assume you will proceed cautiously and quietly down the stairs on the other side of the doorway? From the door it just a dim light and a bit smokey."

<OOC> Sharna says, "That's the idea, on my part. I'll even properly attempt to Stealth, if the conditions are right for it."

<OOC> Cesran says, "will try to be as quiet as possible and do I know anything about the skulls besides they are humanoid?"

<OOC> Clanga says, "Nothing"

<OOC> Alteri says, "Yes. Alteri will readily give Sharna space to do her roguely thing."

<OOC> Clanga says, "Stealth won't help. You going to be coming out where expected where people will be looking... unless you have other plans."

Cesran continues to look at the skulls. He doesn't like playing with dead things much. He can tell they are human skulls, but other than that not much. Cesran shrugs a little bit as he picks up a skull one of the cleanest ones and he puts it in his bag.

<OOC> Clanga says, "THe following rolls will be available to people. +knowledge/nobility +craft (Any Stone or metal work), +profession (Anything to do with Nobility)."

GAME: Cesran rolls knowledge/nobility: (1)+9: 10

<OOC> Sharna has none of these things.

<OOC> Alteri has none either. :3

<OOC> Teppus has... knowledge/religion? <.<

A quick word from Cesran indicates that the stairs should lead to the wine Cellar. But what you find down there is a room that is much larger than it should be. Nearly 40' from the stairs to the far wall, the room is roughly 20' wide. The shuffling heard was clearly the work of the three men standing between you and a throne. In the Throne sits Count Folgrin, dressed in what might once have been his best courtly robes at one time. His eyes are a bit glazed as he gives you all an imperious look. Beside him is Lara, who leans over his shoulder, "There they are my Lord, the bandits who attacked me. They've come to kill you." The three standing men growl at that, tightening their grip on their allready drawn swords. Two look to be fairly normal, if burly guards, while the third is the COunts son. All three have the same glazed look on their faces.

"oh, come *on*," says Teppus after a moment. He just lets out a sigh. "Do we LOOK like bandits, you bloody idiots?" That's what he says next. Then he looks at Alteri, the plate armor wielding muscled woman. And then Sharna. The mul-blood. Then at Cesran. And his dredlocks.

"...we're NOT BADNITS!" A little desperate here.

Taking stock of the situation, Alteri draws herself up ad lifts a hand to try and stay Teppus' desperation, the highborn matching imperious look for imperious look, simply by virtue of her blood. "She lies, Count Folgrin." Using her parade master's voice, her words carry clearly to the very ends of the room. "Your daughter languishes, unknowing of your fate, while this harlot 'plants' deceit in your ears. We were sent only to seek word of you. Whyfor would attack her? We know not her relation to you to begin with." Full and round, Alteri cannot hide her noble's accent to save her life.

"..." That's Sharna. She eyeballs the scene, incredulous.

"... This has to be the worst, most complicated overdue book notice ever." the shadowblood mutters into her chin.
Eyes narrow at the vacant looks the Count and his men are sporting, lithe body tensing. "Somehow, I don't think they'll listen." Sharna whispers - but she's going to let the more... benign-looking members of the party try, at least.

Cesran follows the others down into the wine cellar and he looks around. He nods his head, "That's some pretty good vintages down here." He sees the throne, "Well that's a little ostentatious." He says sarcastically and he looks to Sharna as she brings up the book, "Good point we are just here for the book so give it back to us so we can return it to the library in Alexandria and we'll be out of your hair so you can get back to your feast."

The words from the Paladin have little effect on anyone in the room, save perhaps a faint snort from the Son. Alteri's empassioned speech brings a wicked smile to Lara's lips, but only a deepening frown to the Counts. He sits up a bit straighter in his chair, not looking fully at any of you, as if seeing something other than what is in front of him, "Well as you can see, I am fine. You may give word to my daughter that I am well and that she may return here." The mention of the book brings a deeper smile to Lara. "See my Lord, they are theives here to steal from your library. Kill them now." She then licks her lips as she looks you over, though only the adventurers see that.

<OOC> Clanga says, "Cesran, make me a quick Wisdom check"

GAME: Cesran rolls widsom: (9)+widsom: 9

GAME: Cesran rolls wisdom: (9)+2: 11

<OOC> Clanga says, "I think that should be good enough. You know this situation is a powder keg. ANy sort of obvious casting will likely start the battle."

Sharna casts a sidelong glance at Cesran. This is followed by a slow, deliberate application of a gloved palm to her face. She remains tense - eyes flicking between Lara and the armed guards.

Alteri throws Cesran an incredulous look, "After what we saw in the kitchen, you'll let him 'get back to' his feast?" And this is likely the point where Sharna groans about stupid fighters with morals. To the Count, she continues, "Nay, Lord Count. I venture the audacity to state that you are -not- fine. For the sake of your health, and your daughter's peace of mind, we must take you to the temple healers. Pray, step forth that we may escort you safely thus."

"She speaks truly," says Teppus of Alteri. "I am a paladin. A *Paladin*. I can not leave this situation to continue. Not when there are skulls and innocents in trouble that must be saved." He is not happy about this. But, well... PALADIN. THIS IS WHAT PALADINS DO.
Sharna may not be a beacon of morality, but she certainly isn't pro- witches who eat people, either. Or pro- letting people who try feed her to a plant go unpunished. Frankly, those who know her may catch the tension in the way she's handling the crossbow - though she does seem to be behaving and allowing for, possibly, a peaceful solution that suits everyone. However unlikely.

Cesran looks at Alteri and he shrugs, "It was worth a shot we are here to get the book back and I'd rather not have any book damaged." He looks towards the others, "Besides we've just seen human skulls what proof have we've seen that they are actually eating anything."

The words from Alteri and Teppus seem to give the Count some pause, which infuriates Lara. Her hand points to Alteri and she screams, "Ignore their words! Kill them now!" The guards leap into action, raising their swords up as they advance forward. Even the Count raises to his feet, though his reactions are slower and weaker. In the midst of this activity, Lara waves her hand and vanishes from view.

<OOC> Clanga says, "Okay folks, +initiative. And people can make a Spellcraft or +knowledge/Arcana roll.

GAME: You clear initiatives.

GAME: Clanga has cleared initiatives.

"...they were in the KITCHEN," says Teppus to Cesran.

GAME: Teppus rolls initiative: Roll: 2 + Bonus: 1 = Total: 3

GAME: Alteri rolls initiative: Roll: 5 + Bonus: 2 = Total: 7

GAME: You roll initiative for Count: Roll: 17 + Bonus: +1 = Total: 18

GAME: Cesran rolls spellcraft: (6)+15: 21

GAME: You roll initiative for Son: Roll: 5 + Bonus: +1 = Total: 6

GAME: Sharna rolls initiative: Roll: 2 + Bonus: 5 = Total: 7

GAME: Cesran rolls initiative: Roll: 3 + Bonus: 3 = Total: 6

GAME: Clanga rolls Guards/+0: (1)+Guards/+0: 1 to +0

GAME: You roll initiative for Guards: Roll: 19 + Bonus: +0 = Total: 19

GAME: You roll initiative for Lara: Roll: 6 + Bonus: +1 = Total: 7

Current Initiative Order
---------------------------------

19 Guards

18 Count

7 Sharna

7 Alteri

7 Lara

6 Cesran

6 Son

3 Teppus

"... She was just eyeballing us and licking her lips a moment ago! I doubt she's thinking about... well... gods, I hope she's not, anyway." replies Sharna to Cesran. If shadowbloods could go visibly pale, she so would.

<OOC> Clanga says, "Cesran, that wasn't a spell, but a supernatural ability."

<OOC> Clanga says, "Guards do not charge, but advance on Alteri and attack"

Cesran |HUMAN |Wiz | 4 | 26 | 26 | 13 | 2 | 4 | 6 |

Teppus |HUMAN |Ftr/Pal | 3 | 25 | 25 | 18 | 10 | 4 | 7 |

Alteri |HUMAN |Ftr | 6 | 56 | 56 | 21 | 9 | 5 | 6 |

Sharna |HALF-ELF|Rog | 6 | 46 | 46 | 20 | 5 | 11 | 5 |

<OOC> Clanga says, "They are armed with Heavy Flails"

<OOC> Clanga says, "No Power attack though"

GAME: Clanga rolls 1d20+5: (7)+5: 12

GAME: Clanga rolls 1d20+5: (4)+5: 9

<OOC> Clanga says, "The count stands, straightens his outfit, then draws a rapier. Sharna."

<OOC> Sharna says, "Drop crossbow (free), pull saps + move behind one of the guards in relation to Alteri (move), ready action: attack when Alteri reacts (standard, and will be triggered immediatelly, I'm thinking!)"

The guards rush forward, each brandishing a heavy flail. They do not seem to be using flanking... or any other sort of tactics yet... and their blows merely glance off the Fighters Armor. The count stands and straightens his outfit before drawing a rapier and stepping away from the throne.

<OOC> Clanga says, "WIth the room only being 4 squares wide, you risk an AoO without a tumble check."

GAME: Sharna rolls Acrobatics: (15)+14: 29

<OOC> Clanga says, "No problem. And you don't need to wait for ALteri... you're allready flanking once you get to the far side, since they engaged her."

<OOC> Sharna says, "Technically, I do, since flatfooted people don't threaten, but init's aligned so that my ready triggers immediatelly. XD"

GAME: Sharna rolls 1d20+4+5+2: (15)+4+5+2: 26

GAME: Sharna rolls 1d6+2+3d6: (5)+2+(6): 13

<OOC> Clanga says, "Not flat footed."

<OOC> Sharna says, "That much nonlethal."

<OOC> Clanga says, "Not enough to drop him, though he staggers slightly"

Leaping adroitly above the head of the flail before the unfortunate guard can even react to take advantage of the opening, Sharna lands in almost catlike manner behind the human. Her crossbow's been discarded, replaced by the pair of blackjacks - one of which is firmly applied to the back of his cranium. The leather gives a resounding crack, and the man stumbles, but does not yet fall.

<OOC> Clanga says, "Alteri"

<OOC> Alteri says, "I non-lethal PA on the one Sharna hit. If he goes down, I non-lethal PA the second guard."

<OOC> Clanga says, "Okay."

GAME: Alteri rolls 1d20+14+2-4: (18)+14+2+-4: 30

<OOC> Clanga says, "+14 with the power attack negative? Daaaamn. :)"

<OOC> Sharna says, "Furious Focus. She doesn't take the negative on her first attack."

<OOC> Teppus nods. Furious Focus is <3.

GAME: Alteri rolls 1d10+17: (6)+17: 23

<OOC> Clanga says, "Okay."

<OOC> Clanga says, "Well he's out."

<OOC> Alteri says, "Iterative on his friend."

GAME: Alteri rolls 1d10+14-4-5-2: (2)+14+-4+-5+-2: 5

<OOC> Alteri grins. "And that's what happens when FF stops working.

<OOC> Sharna says, "Hem. d20 maybe? XD"

GAME: Alteri rolls 1d20: (13): 13

<OOC> Alteri says, "So 13 + 3. doubt it hits. :3"

<OOC> Clanga says, "Nope, miss on the second"

<OOC> Alteri poses.

GAME: Clanga rolls 1d20+33-15: (14)+33+-15: 32

<OOC> Clanga says, "Sharna, perception check"

GAME: Sharna rolls Perception: (16)+14: 30

<OOC> Clanga says, "Close. 'Lara' appears behind Alteri, flanking with the still standing guard."

"Gods damn it, she did it again," Alteri hisses when Lara vanishes into thin air. Then there is nothing left to say as the glazed men advance on their group. Shifting as the heavy flails come flying, she manages to angle herself that they only perform glancing blows. Giving Sharna a toothy grin over the shoulder of the first guard she faces, the highborn shifts the grip on her hilt and with the flat of her blade, finishes the work the rogue started. The dull thunk sends the fellow into lala land. Sighting the second guard, Alteri attempts to do the same to him, but her swing goes wide as he finds the split-second needed to ready a dodge.

GAME: Clanga rolls 1d20+15: (17)+15: 32

GAME: Clanga rolls 1d4+4: (1)+4: 5

<OOC> Clanga says, "ALteri, DC 16 Fort"

GAME: Alteri rolls Fortitude: (5)+9: 14

<OOC> Clanga says, "2pts Strength Damage"

GAME: Clanga damaged Alteri for 5 points. 51 remaining.

<OOC> Clanga says, "Cesran, you're up."

<OOC> Cesran says, "Knowledge/religion as to what Lara is."

<OOC> Clanga says, "Sure"

<OOC> Cesran says, "Cast true strike"

GAME: Cesran casts True Strike.

GAME: Cesran rolls knowledge/religion: (13)+12: 25

<OOC> Clanga says, "Okay."

<OOC> Clanga says, "She's not undead, God or Demon."

<OOC> Cesran says, "Okay"

<OOC> Clanga says, "THe sone steps forward and swings his halberd at Sharna"

GAME: Clanga rolls 1d20+14: (13)+14: 27

GAME: Clanga rolls 1d10+10: (3)+10: 13

GAME: Clanga damaged Sharna for 13 points. 33 remaining.

<OOC> Clanga says, "Correction, Bastard Sword being wielded 2 handed (Which doesn't change the numbers)"

There is a faint brush in the air as Lara passes Sharna, but not enough for the Rogue to react to in time. The creature appears beside Alteri, taking advantage of her swing against the second guard as distraction. Her hand lashes out, leaving a gash in one bicept that seems to suck the strength right out of the Fighter. "You will make a tasty one." Meanwhile the Count's son swings his sword out at Sharna, who is suddenly his closest target. He demonstrates considerable skill and lethal efficiency as the blade digs into the rogue's side.

Cesran watches as the battle takes place and he takes out a small wooden replica of a archery target. He casts the spell as the battle starts to rage and he sees Lara as he tries to identify what she is. Since his mind is still on the skulls he checks his knowledge of any undead, god or demon and he can't as of yet identify Lara.

<OOC> Clanga says, "Teppus, you're up finally. ;)"

<OOC> Teppus says, "Oops!"

<OOC> Teppus says, "I missed you saying it was my turn."

<OOC> Alteri says, "Stop being all sick and snotty faced."

<OOC> Teppus says, "I'ma move up and attempt to attack the halberdier. Nonlethally!"

GAME: Teppus rolls 1d20+4: (15)+4: 19

GAME: Teppus rolls 2d4+6: (4)+6: 10

<OOC> Teppus says, "Assuming that's a hit."

<OOC> Clanga says, "No it did not"

<OOC> Cesran says, "Bastard sworder"

<OOC> Clanga says, "Platemail with +1 Dex... 20 AC"

GAME: Clanga rolls 1d20+7: (10)+7: 17

The Guard doesn't seem to take any notice of his companion falling, and only minimal notice of the attack being swung at him. HIs make continues to whirl through the air again bouncing off Alteri's armor. The Count moves towards Alteri as well, but more of a stroll as he watches his 'court' deal with the problem.

<OOC> Clanga says, "Shanra is up"

<OOC> Sharna says, "Is there such a position that I can 5' into flank with Alteri on the remaining guard?"

<OOC> Clanga says, "No Sorry."

<OOC> Sharna says, "I attempt to Acrobatics away from him and happy swordy fellow into flank with Lara with Teri, then. And bean her, unless I eat AoOs and get downed!"

Bursting towards the Swordsman that'd attacked Sharma, Teppus yells out a cry, "For Serriel!" And then brings his guisarme down to slice at his legs. Sadly, the plate makes this impractical and nearly useless. The paladin looks... annoyed. "Dammit."

<OOC> Clanga says, "Roll it."

GAME: Sharna rolls Acrobatics: (13)+14: 27

GAME: Sharna rolls 1d20+4+5+2: (2)+4+5+2: 13

<OOC> Sharna says, "Whiff. :("

<OOC> Clanga says, "Indeed"

<OOC> Sharna says, "But hey, Teri can haz flankz."

<OOC> Sharna poses!

<OOC> Alteri says, "<3"

<OOC> Clanga says, "ALteri.. She's definatley not human. :)"

<OOC> Clanga says, "Your go"

<OOC> Alteri says, "Alteri continues to burn. With questions. She non-lethals Lara."

<OOC> Alteri says, "With PA. Again, second on guard if first downs initial target."

<OOC> Clanga says, "Swing"

GAME: Alteri rolls 1d20+14+2-4: (12)+14+2+-4: 24

<OOC> Alteri says, "Er, sorry."

"... shit." goes Sharna, ever so verbose as she looks down at the enormous bleeding gash the sword's blow has left in her side. Unable to get an advantage on the combatants around her, the lithe rogue backflips across the battlefield, landing behind Lara - if that is indeed the creature's actual name - and swinging a blackjack in the direction. The weapon goes wide by a mile.

<OOC> Alteri says, "Forgot -1."

<OOC> Alteri says, "So 23."

<OOC> Clanga says, "Still a hit."

GAME: Alteri rolls 1d10+16: (5)+16: 21

<OOC> Clanga says, "Does not down"

<OOC> Alteri says, "Second on Lara once more then."

GAME: Alteri rolls 1d20+14-5-2+2-1: (17)+14+-5+-2+2+-1: 25

GAME: Alteri rolls 1d10+16: (10)+16: 26

<OOC> Clanga says, "Not enough, though you stagger her."

<OOC> Alteri poses. :3

<OOC> Alteri says, "Uh sorry, I've been reminded I forgot to take non-lethal on my second swing."

<OOC> Clanga says, "Still fine"

<OOC> Alteri says, "So at 21, I'm not sure if that still connects."

<OOC> Alteri says, "Okay. :)"

<OOC> Clanga says, "BTW, I think you're using Power Attack wrong... you're using the -5 from 3.5, not the -2 from PF..."

<OOC> Sharna says, "That's for the iterative, not from PA. ;)"

<OOC> Sharna says, "The -2 is PA."

<OOC> Clanga says, "Ah! Okay NM"

GAME: Clanga rolls 1d20+15: (19)+15: 34

<OOC> Clanga says, "And that for a Touch Attack. :("

<OOC> Alteri is still confused over the whole she-bang. D&D are confusing. >_>;

<OOC> Clanga says, "Fort 16 again Alteri"

GAME: Clanga rolls 2d4: (6): 6

GAME: Alteri rolls Fortitude: (12)+9: 21

<OOC> Clanga says, "Okay, so you don't take the 6pts of Strength Damage. ;)"

<OOC> Clanga says, "Cesran, you're up"

<OOC> Cesran says, "knowledge/? to identify what lara is before I shoot her with scorching ray."

<OOC> Clanga says, "Sure, Nature"

GAME: Cesran rolls knowledge/nature: (15)+10: 25

Tasty one??!?!? What?? Warnings blaring in her head, Alteri shivers at the touch on her bicep, the seemingly small scratch slipping past her plate armour and weakening her far more than it should. Immediately, her attention switches to the suddenly appearing Lara. Growling, "Oh no you don't," the highborn centres all her efforts on the deceptively fragile looking creature. Both her swings connect in rapid, slashing succession, cutting deeply both times into Lara. Feet scuffing the flagstones, Alteri in turn, desperately fights off Lara's evil-feeling touch.

<OOC> Clanga says, "Green Hag"

GAME: Cesran rolls 1d20+20+5-4: (3)+20+5+-4: 24

<OOC> Cesran says, "touch attack"

<OOC> Cesran says, "ranged touch attack"

<OOC> Clanga says, "Hit"

GAME: Cesran rolls 4d6+1: (9)+1: 10

<OOC> Clanga says, "Not quite enough"

<OOC> Clanga says, "The son swings on Teppus"

GAME: Clanga rolls 1d20+14: (12)+14: 26

GAME: Clanga rolls 1d20+9: (6)+9: 15

GAME: Clanga rolls 1d10+10: (7)+10: 17

GAME: Clanga damaged Teppus for 17 points. 8 remaining.

<OOC> Clanga says, "ANd Teppus is up"

Cesran lets his mind roam this stores of knowledge and he finally comes up with a monster that fits the bill for Lara, "She's a Green Hag!" He announces out loud as he points his two fingers on his right hand at Lara. The tips of his finger glow red for a moment as Cesran takes advantage of the insight from true strike and although he still has to aim around the others he fires off a ray of fire at Lara hurting her badly, but not badly enough.

The blows definately stagger Lara, who is starting to realize that this might not be the best situation. She reaches out to place her hand on Alteri's arm. The Fighter feels another wave of weakness, this one far worse than before, but managed to fight off the ill effects. The Count's son on the other hand seems quite comfortable with his sword, lashing out at the new target that presents itself, Teppus. His first blow wounds the Paladin badly, but his second scrapes along armor.

<OOC> Clanga says, "Teppus"

<OOC> Cesran gets out his Teppus puppet.

<OOC> Clanga says, "THat is not a good idea."

<OOC> Cesran is just teasing.

Long distance to Whirlpool: Clanga does poke though. :)

<OOC> Teppus returns!

<OOC> Teppus says, "My apologies."

<OOC> Teppus says, "I am going to smite Lara. SMITE."

<OOC> Clanga says, "Smite away"

GAME: Teppus rolls 1d20+11: (13)+11: 24

GAME: Teppus rolls 2d4+6+2: (3)+6+2: 11

<OOC> Clanga says, "She drops, reverting to her ugly form"

GAME: Clanga rolls 1d20+5: (11)+5: 16

"This is your doing. Your doing!" Teppus turns and channels divine energy into the tip of his glaive. He swings it it, then, and drives it hard into 'Lara's side. The blade pierces her and he drives her back with it before yanking it savagely from her with a flash of light. She teeters and falls to the ground, taking upon her true form. It is not pretty. At all. Uglier than even Alteri!
The revelation of the Hag's true form does not seem to surpise or disuade the Guard, who takes another ineffectual swing at Alteri. It does have an effect on the count though, who staggers back in shock as he witnesses her transformation. It's clear though that the son is the same way as the Guard, ready to continue the fight.

<OOC> Teppus is ducking.

<OOC> Clanga says, "Sharna"

<OOC> Sharna says, "I would like to move into flank with... anyone, really, at this point, on the son or guard, whichever is more feasible, and whack that target inna head."

<OOC> Clanga says, "You can 5' to flank the son with Teppus"

<OOC> Sharna says, "Really? Perfect. Full attack on him, then."

<OOC> Sharna says, "The son, not Teppus."

<OOC> Sharna says, "Even though I'm tempted."

<OOC> Clanga grins.

GAME: Sharna rolls 1d20+4+5+2-2: (10)+4+5+2+-2: 19

GAME: Sharna rolls 1d20+4+5+2-2: (1)+4+5+2+-2: 10

<OOC> Alteri *****punts Teppus. >_<o

<OOC> Sharna says, "That's two misses, I figure?"

<OOC> Clanga says, "If you have the flank in there, then yes they miss"

<OOC> Sharna says, "Everything's in there, yeah."

<OOC> Clanga says, "ALteri"

<OOC> Alteri says, "Hmm. Can Alteri charge the son?"

"... ew. Is it just me, or is this thing just like the... one... on the boat..." Sharna's words trail off. Her horror at the hag's appearance clearly has deeper root than just the immediate, and her blackjacks' blows resound ineffectually on the swordsman's heavy armor.

<OOC> Clanga says, "You are 10' away... if that's enough then yes"

<OOC> Clanga says, "No flank though."

<OOC> Alteri says, "Okay. Alteri charges and non-lethal PAs the fellow."

<OOC> Clanga says, "Go ahead"

GAME: Alteri rolls 1d20+13+2-4: (10)+13+2+-4: 21

GAME: Alteri rolls 1d10+16: (4)+16: 20

<OOC> Clanga says, "Still up. You'd estimate not even close to half"

<OOC> Clanga says, "Cesran?"

<OOC> Cesran says, "Can I do a knowledge/arcana to know what spell they are under and than magic missile the son."

<OOC> Clanga says, "Not a spell, you can have that for free.. Pure psychology"

<OOC> Clanga says, "And shoot"

GAME: Cesran rolls knowledge/arcana: (7)+14: 21

<OOC> Clanga says, "You didn't need the roll."

<OOC> Cesran says, "oh"

<OOC> Clanga says, "I meant the Magic Missile."

<OOC> Cesran says, "I meant to cast it"

GAME: Cesran refreshes spells.

<OOC> Cesran says, "Sorry I forgot to refresh"

"Green what?" Alteri says in response to Cesran's little tidbit. Then Teppus rams his polearm into Lara and the eldanar rears back at the sight. "Oh, green that." Shaking off the hideous horror that Lara's true form inspires, the fighter deflects the guard's flail swing and sights the son instead. That hit Teppus took was bad, setting her priorities to dealing with the plate-armoured man next. Rushing as swiftly as her own armour allows, she crashes into the son, her mutely glowing blade cutting into the gap under his arm.

GAME: Cesran casts Magic Missile.

GAME: Cesran rolls 2d4+3: (5)+3: 8

GAME: Clanga rolls 1d20+14: (18)+14: 32

GAME: Clanga rolls 1d20+9: (11)+9: 20

GAME: Clanga rolls 1d10+10: (6)+10: 16

GAME: Clanga damaged Alteri for 16 points. 35 remaining.

Cesran looks at Alteri, "I'll tell you later." He extends his hand and a pair of blue magic missiles fly out of his hands and head towards the son to hit him square on. He wonders what is still driving the men to attack them, "Hey! Look! She was a horrible monster. We don't have to fight now."

The Fighter has clearly indentified herself as the most serious threat, and the Son responds accodringly. The bastard sword lashes out, the first blow returning the violent favor on Alteri white the second comes very close to causing even more damage, but is stopped by her currais.

<OOC> Clanga says, "Teppus"

<OOC> Teppus kicks RL some more. Okay. Now that the hag is down, I am going to go back and hit the Son, nonlethal.

GAME: Teppus rolls 1d20+4: (19)+4: 23

<OOC> Clanga says, "Hit!"

GAME: Teppus rolls 2d4+6: (2)+6: 8

<OOC> Clanga says, "Still not down, but getting there."

<OOC> Clanga says, "And... perceptions everyone"

GAME: Alteri rolls Perception: (18)+7: 25

GAME: Cesran rolls perception: (4)+2: 6

GAME: Sharna rolls Perception: (13)+14: 27

"Hey! Dammit! You.. what is WITH these people?" Teppus is flustered. And upset. He nearly breaks the haft of the guisarme he carries across the back of the 'son'. He's not happy about how *Any* of this is going down.

GAME: Teppus rolls Perception: (19)+1: 20

<OOC> Clanga says, "Yeah Teppus sees it too"

<OOC> Teppus says, "My dice have been Unjinksed."

<OOC> Teppus says, "But they'll soon be jinked by Jinks once again."

<OOC> Clanga looks at numbers... let me adjust that pose folks.

You are distracted by fighting mister mulinex... but everyone but Cesran sees the Hag's body suddenly hoist into the air and hang there limply, as if carried over one shoulder by an invisible form. The guard steps between you and the body. You also see 2 Skeletons Flanking the Body.

<OOC> Clanga says, "Didn't realize Green Hags have a 19str"

<OOC> Clanga says, "And yes Cesran, your rolls let you know... Skeletons and Green Hags mean a Coven or at least 3 of them..."

<OOC> Alteri says, "We came in through one door. There's another door? Or are they like, circling around us?"

<OOC> Clanga says, "You guys passed Lara to get to the son. This is behind you"

<OOC> Clanga says, "*Coven of at least 3..."

<OOC> Cesran says, "SO near me?"

<OOC> Clanga says, "Yes, right on the other side of the Guard standing beside you."

<OOC> Clanga says, "WHen you notice it."

<OOC> Clanga says, "Sharna, you're up"

<OOC> Sharna says, "I wail on this guy some more cause he's KILLING US and go all WTF at the image before me. But I think the musclemenz are better to... save the corpse."

<OOC> Sharna says, "Or rather, unconscious body."

<OOC> Sharna says, "Actually. I've a better idea. I'll try talk reason into this guy with Diplomacy, if I may."

<OOC> Sharna says, "We could use a big guy with a sword on our side. XD"

<OOC> Clanga says, "You can try diplomacy, but when his 'Girlfriend' turned into a Hag he didn't flinch like Daddy Dearest."

<OOC> Teppus says, "O.o"

<OOC> Clanga says, "Roll Diplomcay"

<OOC> Sharna says, "I think I'll try. Maybe he's just dumb. :("

GAME: Sharna rolls Diplomacy: (7)+10: 17

<OOC> Clanga says, "No."

<OOC> Clanga says, "It's clear he's not listening seriously."

<OOC> Clanga says, "Alteri"

<OOC> Alteri WTFs at the sight, but a guy is waving a sword in her face, she full attacks him, nonlethal, PA.

<OOC> Clanga says, "Yeah go for it."

"HEY! HEY! You with the armor and the muscles! We're not here to fight you! See that?!" Sharna tries to plead to whatever shreds of reason remain with the Count's son. "See that?! You've been tricked!" she goes, a blackjack pointing at the hag being hauled away. There's a pause. The man doesn't seem to be stopping. "TALK TO HIM!" she screeches, in the general direction of the Count himself.

GAME: Alteri rolls 1d20+13-4: (6)+13+-4: 15

GAME: Alteri rolls 1d20+13-4-5-2: (6)+13+-4+-5+-2: 8

<OOC> Alteri says, "Two whiffs."

<OOC> Clanga says, "Indeed. Cesran you're up, and have no idea about the Bodynapping behind you."

<OOC> Cesran says, "Even with Sharna's see that?"

<OOC> Clanga says, "Sure, that will do it. Feel free to notice the Cover Mate"

The son's sword finds its mark on Alteri and she feels a warmth seeping out of her to stain her gambeson. Intent on beating the stubborn son into submission, her attention gets sidetracked by the unlikely sight of the hag floating in thin air, flanked by... are those skeletons? Gods. Distracted beyond her ability to withstand, her blade swings wide on both her attempts.

<OOC> Cesran says, "Cast see invisibility as my bond spell"

<OOC> Clanga says, "Sure. Two Hags invisible... one carying the 3rd Hag, the other looking ready to evicerate anyone who gets past the human and skeleton guards.. but backing up."

GAME: Clanga rolls 1d20+14: (2)+14: 16

GAME: Clanga rolls 1d20+9: (8)+9: 17

Cesran wonders what Sharna is showing able and he looks behind him. He sees the Hag's body rising up in the air and he swears softly. He backs up away from the floating hag and he casts a spell. His eyes start to glow as he gains sight beyond sight. "There are two more green hags and they don't look happy."

The son is actually a bit surprised at the sight himself, and his own strikes seem to be affected much as Alteri's, but he doesn't seem to show any sign of stopping.

<OOC> Clanga says, "Teppus"

<OOC> Clanga says, "BTW Folks, if it's getting late for you guys, I can sum the rest of this up in one pose."

<OOC> Sharna says, "I'm fine for a little while yet, personally."

<OOC> Alteri is good for another hour or so before she heads off to work.

<OOC> Teppus says, "I'm good to go. Just brain dead tonight, truthfully. Sorry. Back now."

<OOC> Clanga nods, "Your turn Teppus. Just the son unless you want to brave the guard wall to take on the Hags.

<OOC> Teppus says, "...I think I'll bash the son again, yeah. :P"

GAME: Teppus rolls 1d20+4: (9)+4: 13

<OOC> Teppus says, "And fail!"

<OOC> Clanga says, "Sharna you're up. The guards aren't doing anything, the body is drifting up stairs, and the son is killing"

<OOC> Sharna says, "As much as I'd love to go finish the hag off, I give the son a bashing around the ears, annoyed at him being a doofus. :("

<OOC> Sharna says, "With blackjacks. Full attack!"

<OOC> Clanga says, "Bash Away"

GAME: Sharna rolls 1d20+4+5+2-2: (10)+4+5+2+-2: 19

GAME: Sharna rolls 1d20+4+5+2-2: (18)+4+5+2+-2: 27

GAME: Sharna rolls 1d6+1+3d6: (2)+1+(13): 16

<OOC> Clanga says, "And he drops."

<OOC> Clanga says, "It's late for me, I am going to do a pose for what happens next, then head to bed."

<OOC> Clanga says, "After Sharna's pose"

<OOC> Cesran says, "okay"

<OOC> Alteri says, "Aight. :3"

<OOC> Cesran says, "Thank you for the rp"

"Dammit, they're getting -away-!" Sharna wails as the body is dragged further and further up the staircase. "DO SOMETHING!" is directed at the stricken Count, who's presumably standing there slack-jawed. Fueled by pure anger and annoyance at the situation, only fueled as one of her blackjacks finds nothing but armor, her follow-up attack is vicious enough to crumple a loose plate and give the son's kidney a jolting powerful enough to go right up his spine and into his brain. His eyes roll to the back of his head and he collapses in a clatter of steel.

"What the hell do you want me to do? I don't think I can get to them," says Teppus, trying to bring the son down as well so that they can make a move as a group. "We'll stop them. Just take care of this idiot first." But the son's armor is still too much for Teppus, for the moment. Frustration burns in his expression.

The 3 Guard, lviing and unliving, don't stop you for long, but long enough. When you reach the top of the stairs to the kitchen, it is filled with thick, billowing smoke that is hard to see and breath in (Cesran can ID it as Pyrotechnics). WHen you open the door a wicked sound voice says, "We know you will bring more, so we will leave this area." Then the door at the top of the stairs is closed with a very solid thump. By the time you find your way throught the smoke to the door, all three Hags are gone, even to Cesran's invisibility sight.

<OOC> Clanga says, "Sorry to cut it short. Z_Z"

<OOC> Clanga says, "Though Honestly, the other 2 Hags were mostly tossed in so we didn't have to deal with you capturing the first one. ;) You win, but it's less hastle"

<OOC> Alteri says, "It's too bad Spike couldn't make it. She would've been like, 'I barrel into the floating body!'."

<OOC> Cesran says, "Thank you for the scene again Clanga"

<OOC> Sharna says, "She would. That would have been EPIC."

<OOC> Cesran says, "Do we get the book back?"

And yes, the book is recovered, and the Count will get the therapy he needs. His son has to be locked up, with far more therapy than the father.

<OOC> Clanga says, "Yeah, I hope she's okay."
[[Category:Logs]]

Recent Logs

2012-01-26T22:49:29Z

Teena:

[[Category:Logs]]
Roleplay is central to Tenebrae, and consists of a mix of scenes, grid, and PrPs. Here you may read some of the logs our players have posted, or wanted to share. This page may also be used to post logs for PrPs, to share an item for staff review, or to tell players about a great scene. Just remember to ask folks in the scene if it's alright before posting (if it's a DM'd scene, ask the DM). Remember too, if you're RPing in a public area, a log may end up on this site.

If you're interested in a summary of recent history, see [[Recent History]].

==How to Post a Log==
Most recent logs are at the '''bottom.''' Be sure to put all pages into '''<nowiki>[[Category: Logs]]</nowiki>'''. Thank you.

{{TableMain}}
{{T01}}
| colspan="2" | Log Help
{{T02}}
|I Need Help With...
|Look Here
|-
|Posting a log
|[[How to Post a Log]]
|-
|Wiki formatting
|[[Help:Editing#Formatting|Wiki Help]]
|-
|Finding a PrP template
|[[PrP Template]]
|-
|Finding what goes in a PrP log
|[[Player_Run_Plots#Sending_in_a_Finished_PrP|Submitting PrPs]]
|-
|Finding logs from the old website
|[http://emblemofea.pbworks.com/w/page/12036798/Game-Logs The Old Site]
|}

==Our Logs==

* [[Overdue|PRP: Overdue]]
* [[Ancestors Pyre|Dramatic Scene: Ancestor's Pyre]]
* [[Back At The Ranch|Social: Back At The Ranch...]]
* [[Boy Meets Girl|Social: Boy Meets Girl]]
* [[Ashenvale Part 2|PRP: Ashenvale Part 2]]
* [[PrP: The Competition|PRP: The Competition]]

* [[Falcon Point: Teeth of the Deep|PRP: Falcon Point: Teeth of the Deep]]
* [[PrP: Brothers of the Storm Part I]]
* [[PrP: Rats!]]
* [[UglyBats|PRP: Huggin' Ugly Bats]]
* [[GrandParade|DPrP: Machinists Grand Parade]]

* [[PrPALittleBatty|PRP: A Little Batty]]
* [[Dragon in the Garden|Social: Dragon in the Garden]]
* [[Bacon Liberation Team|PrP: Bacon Liberation Team]]
* [[Daggers in the Dark|PrP: Daggers in the Dark]]
* [[PrP: Wolves in the Winter]]

* [[Adventurous Rivalry|PrP: Adventurous Rivalry]]
* [[PrP: That's not Timmy!]]
* [[PrP: Black Ring Rising]]
* [[PrP: Chicken Chasers!]]
* [[PrP: Timmy's Uncle]]

* [[PrP: Teena's Bad Day]]
* [[PrP: Fistful of Chitlins]]
* [[Hell's Medicine Part 1|PRP: Hell's Medicine Part 1]]
* [[Gnap!|PRP: Gnap!]]
* [[PrP: Watt's Mine is Mine]]

* [[PrP: 3375 Cubic Feet of Terror]]
* [[Why Did It Have To Be Rats?|PRP: Why Did It Have To Be Rats?]]
* [[The Poisoning of the Myrrish Ambassador|Social: The Poisoning of the Myrrish Ambassador]]
* [[Necromancer's Folly|PrP: Necromancer's Folly]]
* [[Tears in Dust Part 1|PrP: Tears in Dust Part 1]]

* [[A Veyshanti Sort Of Arrangement|PrP: A Veyshanti Sort Of Arrangement]]
* [[Tears in Dust Part 2|PRP: Tears in Dust Part 2]]
* [[PrP: Earthshaper Part I]]
* [[PrP: Adventure, Inc. - Part 1]]
* [[PrP: Godbusters]]

* [[Heroic by Proxy|PRP: Heroic by Proxy]]
* [[DPRP: Run, Thief, Run!|DPrP: Run, Thief, Run!]]
* [[Hell's Medicine Part 2|PrP: Hell's Medicine Part 2]]
* [[Tooth and Sky|PRP: Tooth and Sky]]
* [[PrP: Codices, Indices, and Odysseys]]

* [[The Hauntening|PRP: The Hauntening]]
* [[PrP: Codex Bifolium]]
* [[Tournament Paramount: Magic Competition Round 1]]
* [[Tidehollow's Challenge|Tournament Paramount: Tidehollow's Challenge]]
* [[Caller in Darkness|PRP: Caller in Darkness]]

* [[Dramatic Scene: Guild of Explorer's Meeting: Dwarven Citadel Expedition]]
* [[Shadowfall is coming|Social: Shadowfall is Coming]]
* [[Hell's Medicine Part 3|PrP: Hell's Medicine Part 3]]
* [[PrP: Beneath the Church]]
* [[PrP: Old Wounds]]

* [[PrP: In The Thick of Things]]
* [[The Young Herbalist|Social: The Young Herbalist]]
* [[Wyvern Hugger|Social: Wyvern Hugger]]
* [[Twins | Social: Twins]]
* [[Silver Wings: Why the Egalrin are the Way They Are|Social: Silver Wings: Why the Egalrin are the Way They Are]]

* [[PrP: Just Lion Around]]
* [[Kill Ted|Scene: Kill Ted]]
* [[PrP-Tutorial: You Dirty Rat!]]
* [[Agril, Axe Murderer|Social: Agril, Axe Murderer]]
* [[Dramatic Scene: Is It Lynch Time Yet?]]

* [[PrP: Escape to the Noble House of Mummies Part 1]]
* [[PrP: A Tangled Web]]
* [[Botanical Gardens|PRP: Botanical Gardens]]
* [[PM Plot: Ezra's Golden Parachute]]
* [[PrP: There and Back Again]]

* [[PrP: Boiling Point]]
* [[Social: Cabin in the Woods]]
* [[PrP: Team Heart Face the Hydra]]
* [[PrP: Fey-tasia]]
* [[Two and a Half Men]]

* [[Mouse Hunt|PrP: Mouse Hunt]]
*[[PM Plot: Just Another Bug Hunt]]
* [[Social: Small Halfling, Big Tale]]
* [[PrP: Maggits]]
* [[No Sympathy|PrP: No Sympathy]]

No Sympathy

2012-01-13T02:10:01Z

Teena:

'''No Sympathy'''

----

Overview: Children in a small village have gone missing, the call has gone out to the adventurers guild for heroes. What they get...

PCs:

Spike, War Golem Barbarian 5

Jinks, Gnome Bard 6

Otto, Dwarven Ranger 4

Zahd, Human Barbarian 4

Monsters: Attic Whisperer x2 (CR 4 each)

----

<OOC> Otto says, "Room for one more?"

<OOC> Otto says, "Spike is down. :D"

<OOC> Clanga could yes

Spike has arrived.

<OOC> Zahd cheers.

<OOC> Otto says, "Hmm. Any chance this will take more than 4 hours?"

<OOC> Clanga doesn't think so.

<OOC> Otto says, "I might switch out to Oz, but I do have him scheduled for a plot with Thunder at 7:30."

<OOC> Zahd will be here and active so waits on him will not be long.

<OOC> Clanga will get started soon, but is planning on it being fairly short.

The call has gone out from the adventurer's guild about a small villiage a few hours north of the City.

The priest of Althea is desperate for assistance and offering a reward.

GAME: Spike rolls disguise: (20)+2: 22

"Reward for assistance," mutters Zahd as he hefts his sword off of his back and onto his shoulder.

"Sounds good to me." He heads to the office of the adventurer's guild with a grin on his face and love

for Spike's zany disguises in his heart.

[RPOne] Clanga says, "Quick question. Do we want to use the shiney new Death Concent?"

[RPOne] Zahd is up for it.

[RPOne] Jinks is immortal. doesn't care either way.

Today, Spike has gone to an exceptionally (for her) elaborate length for her disguise. She put on a set of overalls, grabbed her scythe, and

stuck a blade of hay in her mouth. Assistance? Sounds like a chance to hit things. Pretending like she is in fact NOT Spike, and that she is

'obviously' not Spike, she even introduces herself to Zahd,"Hi! I'm Mike. I'm a farmer! I farm things."

<OOC> Spike says, "<---Totally not Spike."

GAME: Otto rolls Perception: (3)+9: 12

GAME: Zahd rolls perception: (19)+8: 27

Otto isn't much of Althean, but it's not entirely heathen deity and it's cold hard coin to spend, so why not? Otto scratches at his beard through

the cloud of thick pipe smoke that lingers around him, the stem of his pipe clenched between his teeth. He glances around and in some major

lapse of judgement or attention, doesn't notice Mike was in fact, Old Man Spike all along. Maybe it ain't tobacco he's smoking. "It's paying work.

At least we won't have to put up with that shithouse crazy golem this time around."

In seeing Spike in the overalls and cleverly placed straw shoot, Zahd looks to her and says with a sly grin on his face, "Hello Mike, that's a

mighty big scythe you have there."

Spike grins at Zahd and Otto,"'S like I say. I'm Mike, and I came teh scythe. We farmers use scythes a lot, you see." She sniffs a little bit. "I

plan ter fix them thar problems with some ancient farmalatin' techniquers. Ever hear the sayin' 'stronger 'n an ox'? Well, we farmers is stronger

'n oxes, yeh see."

Zahd looks over at Otto and looks at him as if he is joking or not. He has a mixed look on his face as if he is supposed to laugh or is confused.

He asks Otto, "So do you think it'll be just the three of us?"

The adventure's guild doesn't have much information, just directions and a some silver for simply taking the walk up the road. The day is

partially overcast, the sun making only occassional appearances to warm the cold day. You arrive at the hamlet of Baybridge just before noon,

and while only a few villages come out to see you, those that do look both frightened and hopeful. An young acolyte takes you to a small

building on the church grounds and offers you lunch while 'Mother Lytia' finishes her prayers.

Jinks was just there one moment, balancing his fancy little bow on his smart little adventuring jacket as now-quartet was preparing to leave.

Where he came from is probably best left unknown and/or may have something to do with why a handful of folk have taken to calling him 'the

invisible gnome.' He busies himself with sifting through a small satchel of parchment from ponyback on the way up the road, scoffing and

sniffing and tossing away bits here and there when their contents fail to please him.

Now at the table, he eyes the plate of food dubiously, poking its contents around before taking a small, expiremental bite. When it's clear that

the hard bisquits aren't poison he eats like a gnome who does enjoy eating for the act of eating.

GAME: Jinks refreshes spells.

Zahd eats his fill of the meal there and stuffs some bread into his breastplate. He either isn't very sneaky or doesn't really care if someone saw

him. He fills his wineskin with water and readies himself for where they must go.

Spike is still working hard at selling her 'expert disguise'. "WE FARMERS FREQUENTLY EAT CORN TO FUEL OUR FARMING ACTIVITIES. THIS IS

COMPLETELY NORMAL." Either she's gambling a dorf don't know nothin' bout no surface-dwellin' farmin'... Or she really is that oblivious. People

that know her... will probably lean towards the latter. She eyeballs Jinks,"You are very short sir. As they say big things come in small packages,

I must suspect that you in fact have a very big thing inside of you. Is it an ogre? How does it fit?"

Otto gnaws on a chicken bone absently, breaking it and sucking the marrow out. Mmmm...marrow. The dwarf has caught on to the fact that

there is no Mike, as masking personality is much harder when you are So Very Spike (Which is kind of being That's So Raven), and has taken

on his usual dour and taciturn attitude. In the mean time, he goes about maintaining his crossbow. "Maybe it's an owlbear. I've always wanted

to kill one of those. They make nice rugs."

The meal is infact quite delicious. It's clear whoever put it together (It's not delivered by an acolyte) went to some effort to keep the quality

high. You don't have to wait more than 10 minutes before the Priestess, a short matronly looking halfling, bustles in, "Oh thank the Goddess

you've arrived. I sent out the request in the middle of the night and I had no idea how long it would take before help would arrive." She takes a

seat at the head of the table, in one of several chairs designed for shorter folk, "I am afraid we have had several children vanish. Two days ago

one of the outlying farm couples reported their little boy missing. We mounted a search, but we weren't able to find anything. Two nights ago, a

number of townfolk reported hearing the sound of children playing in the dark, but no one saw anything. Then last night our Smithwife found her

own little girl missing from her bed."

Zahd nods as he picks at his teeth with his finger while the priestess talks. After she finishes he looks over at Otto and asks, "You're good at

tracking, right? Why don't we go to the house?" He doesn't seem to be one for long talks as he starts to stand up after his question. Checking

the straps on his armor he looks like he is ready to get moving.

"'Good things,'" Jinks corrects as he screws a cap back onto the tin hip flask. His rings clatter against the decorated sides of the container as it

disappears beneath the coat into one of many interior pockets. "'Good things come in small packages' and ogres are far from good..." And then

he stops talking to the wargolem in favor of sizing up the halfling and hear the Tale of Woe. "Sounds like fair folk. I'm guessing the parents are

attached to these children and don't just want to make another?" The way he's smirking he might be joking -- it's a bit hard to tell.

Spike informs Otto,"I wrestled an owlbear once. Then I got distracted by a rocking chair and walked all over its face to save everyone from the

chair. When I turned around again, it was dead." She frowns,"I always wondered what happened to that owlbear." Probably the other party

members killed it while she was smashing the chair. Still when Jinks corrects her, she says,"Oh... So... what good things are in you?" She

pauses and her eyes widen,"I... is it... is it candy? Can I have some?" She DOES seem to ponder something as she stands, and informs

Otto,"You know... the short one is right. They CAN just make more in their tummies."

The priestess gives Jinks 'that look', but then she turns on her most Beific smile. "May the goddess bless you with the Joy of parenthood that

you might understand." she says sweetly to Jinks. Her gaze turns to Spike, then shakes her head. "My acolyte will lead you to the Smith's

house. We've tried to keep the area around there clear so that you might be able to follow any tracks.

Otto sighs so hard one might think he sprained whatever muscle is responsible for it. "Reos grant me patience." He prays to himself, his right

forefinger pressing down the bulging vein in his temple. "Good, ma'am. We can set out presently." He says, throwing himself into his work to

escape the horrors of being in proximity to Spike. "We'll be back when we have someting to report. Shall we?"

Zahd nods to Otto and seems to position himself to follow along. He seems in good spirits as everytime Spike says something he stifles a small

bit of laughter as his glance generally leads to Otto to see his reaction to the chatter.

Spike taps her chin a little bit,"We also may be back with the head of a decapitated monster if something happens to be eating the children."

Yep. Way to reassure the priestess and the villagers.

<OOC> Clanga says, "Otto, can I get a survival role"

<OOC> Clanga says, "With your ranger bonus"

GAME: Otto rolls Survival+2: (2)+9+2: 13

<OOC> Otto says, "Stupid dirt. Why can't they be on something firm like rock."

<OOC> Spike says, "Can has aid?"

<OOC> Otto says, "No."

<OOC> Otto says, "You can't. You wait in the wagon."

<OOC> Spike says, "Fail."

<OOC> Zahd takes Otto's ranger card away and returns him to being an honorary Mul'rogue.

<OOC> Clanga says, "Who said that were a fail?"

<OOC> Spike says, "They're children, not master woodsmen."

"Might be a fairly small head..." Jinks says with a little sniff, hardly sparing a glance at the ambulatory machine after the last wave of

shenanigans. He's glad for Otto's presence, at least, as he seems to be setting the pace and has legs that aren't much longer than the gnome's.

He snatches up the bow and cinches it deftly into the buckle'n clasp webbing on his back. Arrows rattle in covered quivers and he jingle-jangles

with coins and jewelry. He hums quietly to himself and looks through another handful of papers while Otto inspects the ground.

The blacksmith turns out to be a young mountain dwarf named Jorl, maybe in his 40s. He and his wife are waiting near the doorway. The smith

tells you that his daughter Olia is barely four years old, and only started walking a bit within the last month. He points to her window at the side

of the house, with it's sil higher than Jink's head. There's a disturbance in the snowpile beneath the sil, then small tracks leading away. SOme of

the tracks are of a babe walking, while others are of it crawling... there appears to be only the childs tracks for a several hundred yards leading

out of town, though they occasionally vanish for a bit here and there they aren't /too/ hard to find again.. then they appear to simply stop.

<OOC> Clanga says, "Okay, you will need to make another roll now. You can have another person attempt an aid roll, or if someone else

has another idea to assist."

<OOC> Otto says, "I can roll above a 2. :D"

GAME: Otto rolls Survival+2: (16)+9+2: 27

GAME: Spike rolls survival: (11)+0: 11

<OOC> Zahd is a survivalist and has knowledge/nature :D

<OOC> Spike says, "<---Aid."

<OOC> Zahd laughs at Spike's Aid.

<OOC> Spike says, "You aid too, Zahd!"

<OOC> Zahd says, "Which one?"

<OOC> Spike says, "Survival!"

GAME: Zahd rolls survival: (9)+6: 15

<OOC> Clanga says, "Actually Spike's is enough"

<OOC> Spike says, "We can get over a thirty."

<OOC> Spike :D :D

<OOC> Clanga said another person. Not everyone. ;)

<OOC> Spike says, "Now Otto is all like: Okay, here's what happened-(Explanation like on monk.)"

<OOC> Zahd nods.

<OOC> Spike says, "Oh. Sorries Clanga."

<OOC> Zahd waits for poses cause he thinks it will be funny with Spike's aid.

<OOC> Spike says, "Spike's aid: Hey, look at that! Otto: That's nothing. I'm trying to concentrate. Spike: What about that. Otto: That's a tree.

Stop interrupting my concentration. Spike: What about that? Otto: I said- Oh, wait. Yeah. That might be something."

<OOC> Clanga says, "So feel free to pose looking around, then I will continue"

Jinks glances between Spike and Zahd briefly, eyes narrowing subtly, and then he takes a few steps and folds his arm. In the barbarian's

shadow, he's not forced to squint! He smooths at his goatee and watches as khazad and construct go to work. "You folks have any gnomish girls

in this village?" He non sequiturs the distraught dwarven couple with a glance askance.

Spike is walking around as the window is shown. Seeing a disturbance, she begins running around back and forth and in circles, pointing at

things and calling out to the others,"Hey, look at that! and that! And that! What about that? Or that? Oh, wow! What's that! Ew, gross! I think I

saw a dog poop- Oh, neat, a stick!"

Zahd crosses his arms over his chest as he watches Spike and Otto work in harmony. As Jinks makes his comment he stiffles another chuckle.

It appears he is having a grand ol time in this company.

Otto goes increasingly more pissed off and frustrated with Spike continues to generate a dire need for alchemical ritalin, teeth grinding as he

tries to focus. "ENOUGH. SHUT UP AND GO OVER THERE. I WISH I COULD MEET WHOEVER MADE YOU, THEY DESERVE A-" He says as he stalks

forward ahead of Spike to look at the ground before she tramples it. But splitting one's attention and turning your head back while walking

forward can be dangerous. Especially in a forest. Mid-sentence, he smashes his head into a low hanging branch hard enough to send his helmet

flying. A scream of dwarven obscenities flow from his mouth as he drops to his knees, one hand holding his head while he digs through the

underbrush to find his helmet, only to find....

At the end of the trail it is clear that the small child just sat down. It takes several minutes of searching the area to find anything that might lead

onwards. The trail is not much, just a whisp of disturbance in the snow, like someone drawing a feather along it lightly here and there. The only

reason it's a trail is that the disturbances are in a straight line. They are not consistent enough to be footprints. You notice that there's a

farmhouse off to your right through the woods, but the trail leads 'behind' it.

Spike cringes like a kicked puppy and starts sniffling like a small child about to cry.

"... may the pillars of your hall... Wait. What? That can't be literal. How would you... with false metal...?" Jinks is looking at his hands and

pantomiming acts you wouldn't normally pantomime in mixed company. Apparently, his Khazdul accent is flawless but the colloquialisms can still

stump even the bard.

Zahd can't stiffle this laughter as it pours from his large overmuscled frame like a torrent bursting through a damn. He grasps at his midsection

trying to keep his wind as he follows along behind Otto and Spike in their routine.

Otto seethes, the torrent of hate slowing to a crawl once he finally finds his helmet. Once his vision stops swimming, the farmhouse comes into

view. "Cease your damned jackassery! I see a farmhouse up ahead!" He hisses, pulling some brush out of the way to clear a trail and give off a

better view. His helmet is slowly slid back on, twitching as the cold metal slaps against the swollen bump on his head.

Spike spits back at Otto,"I'm not talking to you! You're a poopy head meany face."

Otto says, "Okay."

Zahd tries hard to get his laughter under control as the farmhouse comes into view. Unstrapping the sword across his back seems to bring him

into focus as he begins stepping a whole lot lighter than he had up to this point.

"With sufficient coin and the right connections I believe you can subject constructs to alterations of their normal operating procedures." Jinks

offers conversationally, creeping up closer to the dwarf and peering across the way. He has his bow loose and in hand and the rings have

vanished in favor of a pair of black, tooled leather gloves. So fashionable. "Attitude adjustment," he adds in a whisper, canting his head subtly

back at Spike. "Coyote laughs; did anyone want to place a wager as to our kidnappers racial orientation? I have a Dragonieri platinum that says

it's fae."

<OOC> Clanga says, "Perception checks from everyone as you continue to follow the trail."

Otto calms just a little, given the nearness of the percieved goal and the relative silence of Spike. He shoots a dirty look at Zahd, but remains

quiet and unslings his crossbow. With a quick, smooth motion the weapon is cocked and loaded and the dwarf stalks along the trail, taking point

as they move forward. "If they are? What do you know of those things?"

GAME: Otto rolls Perception: (11)+9: 20

Spike informs Jinks,"I think it's chairs. Or possibly a campy supervillain."

GAME: Spike rolls perception: (14)+8: 22

GAME: Zahd rolls perception: (17)+8: 25

Zahd breathes deep as he tries to keep his laughter under control. His eyes dart back and forth as he follows at the rear of the group; sword at

the relaxed ready position. He isn't much for words, but seems to be enjoying himself.

GAME: Jinks rolls Perception: (10)+10: 20

The trail definately doesn't lead to the house, though Otto detects more signs of people having been in the woods. It's clear that you're in the

area where the original child was abducted. None of the trails seem to notice the brushlike line that you are following, though the Ranger is able

to tell that the one you are following actually came after. Soon there is a sound up ahead, the high pitched sound of young voices. It's hard to

hear at first, but the tones suggest an arguement.

<OOC> Spike says, "... Time for spike to act all sneaky like. :D"

"All manner of thing... though the vary widely depending on the breed." Jinks says with a mild shrug and a glance to the quiver, pushing arrows

this way and that until he's found a set with black fletching. "Each has their own superstitions, weaknesses, and mannerisms -- most hate the

touch of cold iron."

Otto does the inevitable fist up in the air as the psuedo-tactical sign to stop and be quiet. "I hear the children. Jinks, you come with me and we'll

scout out ahead. If you hear this horn..." He picks up the small signal horn hanging from his belt as he looks towards Zahd and Spike, "Come

a'running. That sound like a plan?"

Zahd is walking with a light step. He is on high alert watching their rear and flanks as they follow along the path of anger. His laughter is

completely gone as a serious look overcomes his face when it gets real. As Otto gives out the plan, Zahd simply nods and takes a knee trying

to keep his large form low and out of view.

Spike smiles brightly and almost answers Otto... then she remembers she's not talking to him. Instead, she informs Jinks,"I also suspect that

they have a weaknesss to being murdered in the face. By being hit hard. Repeatedly."

<OOC> Clanga says, "Stealth Rolls from those who are approaching."

GAME: Jinks rolls stealth: (1)+11: 12

<OOC> Jinks says, "I'd like my 'once a turn mulligan' now, please."

<OOC> Clanga laughs

<OOC> Spike says, "We all know that me trying to sneak up on anything is just a bad idea."

GAME: Otto rolls Stealth: (12)+10: 22

<OOC> Clanga poses then.

As Jinks and Otto start forward, the arguement becomes clearer. It's of two children arguing over two toys, one wanting the others because it's

better than his... or hers... what is odd is that the voices on either side of the arguement keep changing, all young, all very childish, but varied

from sentence to sentence. Then Jinks steps on a twig with a loud crack and the voices cut off like a pair of children caught with their hands in

the cookie jar.

"Thul's shriveled cock." Jinks mutters darkly, staring daggers at the twig.

Zahd's brows rise as the little one makes a big noise. He mutters to Spike, "Perhaps there is something large in that small package." A grin

passes over his lips as he keeps a vigilant eye out.

Otto turns slowly to stare hatefully at Jinks. If Otto was every going to spontaneously develop Sorcerer powers to make someone's head

explode, it would be now. Fortunately, Otto took Cha as his dump stat, so the gnome is safe for now. Still, after that drawn out moment of

panic, Otto looks around and finds somewhere to take cover a few steps from Jinks. To leave him out in the cold. Or to use as actual cover if

there is a fire fight.

<OOC> Clanga says, "Perception for Otto and Jinks again, -4 for the other two if they want to make it."

GAME: Otto rolls Perception: (18)+9: 27

GAME: Zahd rolls perception: (5)+8: 13

GAME: Jinks rolls Perception: (13)+10: 23

GAME: Spike rolls perception-4: (2)+8+-4: 6

GAME: Clanga rolls 1d20+17: (20)+17: 37

GAME: Clanga rolls 1d20+17: (19)+17: 36

And there is only silence, not a rustle or motion in the area.

<OOC> Jinks says, "Going to cast invis if you don't mind, Clanga."

<OOC> Clanga says, "Go ahead."

Jinks shrugs at Otto and pulls a hand through the air like one might don a cloak. Little swirls of faint aether play as he hums a quiet tune and

pulls the magic around him -- vanishing from sight.

GAME: Jinks casts Invisibility.

Otto grunts in annoyance as he's left to his own devices, but slowly pulls away from the tree he was hiding behind and starts to creep forward

once again, one hand holding his crossbow, the other holding the signal horn.

<OOC> Otto says, "and hell, if I have time, I'll load a cold iron bolt first."

<OOC> Clanga says, "You can."

Zahd remains in his position as he keeps alert, waiting for the horn to signal a charge. He squeezes the handle of the blade like a stress ball.

Firm, gentle, firm, gentle.

The trail still exists, and Otto follows it in the straight line. THere's no sign of whatever was speaking, but Otto spots the edge of an old wall

foundation, lost in the undergrowth. A quick examination of the area reveals a doorway in the 'floor' of the long abandoned structure hidden

beneath some bushes.

Spike is crouched in a ready stance that more resembles a luchadore ready to pounce... but at least she's being quiet for the moment.

"Jinks, you around? Go get the other two. I think we lost the element of surprise." Otto stage whispers. His back goes against the wall

foundation while he waits for the others to get here.

Jinks isn't far from Otto, cloaked in magic and resisting the urge to hum this one tune about a fae luring a lonely sailor into a lake and drowning

him. You know the one. Poor bastard. At least he died with his sword out of its sheath. "Just send the golem down first, it'll take the brunt of any

attack..." His close returned whisper fades as he starts stalking back towards the other two.

And then he's looking between Spike and Zahd. "This is Althea, the Khazad calls you to his aid," he offers in a soprano sing-song voice from

nowhere.

Spike's eyes widen,"Does... Does that mean I should charge the trapdoor? I've never charged DOWN something before. I... I guess I could...

Wait a minute... If you're a goddess, why don't you do it yourself? It'd be like, way easy." Still, it does get her moving.

Zahd grins and shakes his head. He stands up and heads over to where Otto had gone off to. His sword over his shoulder. He doesn't seem to

be in much of a hurry as the battle horn did not sound. He keeps alert of the scenery about them as he makes his way forward.

Otto gestures towards himself once he catches sight of Zahd and Spike, "Heard some kids but they slipped off...Let me check this door here and

we'll head down." Otto murmurs, pushing himself off the wall to get a good look at the door for signs of use or traps or whathaveyou.

GAME: Otto rolls Perception: (1)+9: 10

GAME: Otto rolls Survival+2: (11)+9+2: 22

<OOC> Otto says, "Either or. :D"

"I only help people who breed. Or cry a lot about how beautiful 'true love' is." Jinks offers at Spike's advancing back in that same ladyvoice.

Sniggering, he glances heavenwards and sends an invisible wink before padding along after.

GAME: You clear initiatives.

GAME: Clanga has cleared initiatives.

GAME: Clanga rolls 1d20+17: (4)+17: 21

GAME: Clanga rolls 1d20+17: (8)+17: 25

<OOC> Clanga says, "Perceptions"

GAME: Zahd rolls perception: (6)+8: 14

GAME: Clanga damaged Spike for -30 points. 61 remaining.

GAME: Spike rolls perception: (18)+8: 26

GAME: Otto rolls Perception: (16)+9: 25

GAME: Jinks rolls Perception: (18)+10: 28

[RPOne] Jinks says, "Dice are starting to warm up. Finally."

GAME: You roll initiative for Hanzel: Roll: 14 + Bonus: +8 = Total: 22

GAME: You roll initiative for Gretel: Roll: 5 + Bonus: +8 = Total: 13

<OOC> Clanga says, "And Inititatives."

GAME: Spike rolls initiative: Roll: 17 + Bonus: 2 = Total: 19

GAME: Jinks rolls initiative: Roll: 18 + Bonus: 4 = Total: 22

GAME: Zahd rolls initiative: Roll: 8 + Bonus: 2 = Total: 10

<OOC> Otto says, "Are we underground or still messing around top side?"

GAME: Otto rolls initiative: Roll: 16 + Bonus: 4 = Total: 20

<OOC> Clanga says, "Top Side... am posing."

You are all expecting /something/ to happen, and as Otto gets to the door, a young boy's scream of 'No! They are ours!' catches only Zahd off

guard. Two small figures, each about the size of an adult halfling, burst out of the bushes to attack. The air is filled with the sound of childlike

sobs, whimpers and little whips of singsong. The effect is very disconcerting, and makes it hard to hear anything else. The two figures look like

emanciated children, but hteir skin looks like dust, and their clothes cobwebs and leaves. But it's their heads that are the most disconcerting.

One appears to have a fox skull where the head should be. The other has a rabbit skull.

Current Initiative Order
----------------------------------------
22 Hanzel

22 Jinks

20 Otto

19 Spike

13 Gretel

10 Zahd

GAME: Clanga rolls 1d20+4: (2)+4: 6

<OOC> Clanga says, "So people know, the two figures are within 5 feet of Otto, having been hidden in the bushes around the door."

The larger, fox headed figure, lashes out to try and push Otto away, but the dwarves reaction causing him to shift back slightly so the thin

fingers do not tocuh him.

<OOC> Clanga says, "It's a surprize round, everyone goes but Zahd.. who's really screwed."

<OOC> Jinks'll start singing. And a Knowledge check, if I might?

<OOC> Clanga says, "Jinks, you're up. Give me a quick +perform roll of your choice before you start singing."

GAME: Jinks rolls Perform/Sing: (3)+13: 16

<OOC> Clanga says, "16 will be good enough.... you know that with the wails and sobs, you can't use bardic performance."

<OOC> Jinks says, "Hooray!"

<OOC> Clanga says, "And... everyone takes a -1 penalty on all attack rolls, damage rolls, and Will saving throws"

<OOC> Clanga says, "You can still take an action,"

GAME: Jinks rolls Knowledge/Religion: (9)+9: 18

<OOC> Jinks says, "Enough to identify?"

<OOC> Clanga says, "Okay Jinks... these are Rare, but not as rare as a Tarasque so 18 will be good enough... Check Attic Whisperer in

Beastiary 2."

<OOC> Jinks says, "Going to back up out of the aura and shout a little."

<OOC> Clanga says, "Otto you're up."

<OOC> Clanga nods, "Good enough."

Jinks winces at the sound of tortured innocence, shaking his head and scampering back away from the haunting notes. "Someone should've

taken the bet! Thul's children are at play -- mind they don't snatch the breath from your lungs..."

<OOC> Otto says, "I waste it with my crossbow. DA, all the good stuff, after a 5ft step."

<OOC> Clanga says, "Shoot it"

GAME: Otto rolls 1d20+4+4+1+1-1-2: (3)+4+4+1+1+-1+-2: 10

<OOC> Otto says, "Doink."

<OOC> Otto says, "Glad to see my shooting dice are still shit."

<OOC> Clanga says, "Definately a miss. Spike"

<OOC> Spike says, "Rage and Charge one of the whisperers and PA on his bootay."

"The hell.." The dwarf exclaims as two freaky little skull head kids come scrabbling out of the bushes out of him. He takes a quick scratch shot

from the hip, which sends the bolt sailing over their heads, but he doesn't waste much time snapping another bolt into place after throwing back

the cocking lever on his weapon

<OOC> Clanga says, "Okay, make the roll."

GAME: Spike rolls melee+2+1-2: (12)+9+2+1+-2: 22

<OOC> Clanga says, "Hit."

<OOC> Spike says, "Do they have spells or spell-like abilities?"

<OOC> Clanga says, "No, no spells or Spell-Like abilities"

GAME: Spike rolls 2d4+9+6+1: (7)+9+6+1: 23

<OOC> Clanga says, "Good Roll, good deep cut... not enough to stop it."

GAME: Clanga rolls 1d20+9: (11)+9: 20

<OOC> Clanga says, "Otto, will save"

<OOC> Clanga says, "Rememeber your -1"

GAME: Otto rolls will-1: (9)+3+-1: 11

<OOC> Otto says, "awesome"

<OOC> Otto says, "13 if it's a spell-like ability. :D"

GAME: Clanga rolls 1d4-1: (4)+-1: 3

GAME: Clanga damaged Otto for 3 points. 37 remaining.

Oh. Hey. Look. That's uh... That's kind just... wrong-looking. Spike's head tilts to the side, mouth open for a second. Even by her standards, this

is just plain freaky. "THIS MAKES ME UPSET. PLEASE DIE NOW!" She raises her scythe in a two handed grip over her head and charges one of

the creatures, sparks flying from her ears and gears grinding and whirring audibly beneath her chestplate. As she reaches the creepy little

thing, she brings it down in a matter-gouting slash across its chest,"I AM A FARMER, AND YOU ARE NIBBLING MY CORN. I MUST NOW STOP YOU

FROM EATING MY CORN."

The smaller, rabbit headed demon, gives a shriek of rage that sounds like someone took a lollipop away from a baby. She jumps the few feet

forward and the teeth of the rabbit sink into Otto's loading hand. The bite is relatively minor, but a wave of fatigue sweeps through the dwarf.

He struggles to shake off the sensation, but fails to do so, making his movements lethargic.

<OOC> Clanga says, "As a reminder. Fatigued: A fatigued character can neither run nor charge and takes a –2 penalty to Strength and

Dexterity. Doing anything that would normally cause fatigue causes the fatigued character to become exhausted. After 8 hours of complete rest,

fatigued characters are no longer fatigued."

GAME: Clanga rolls 1d20+9: (20)+9: 29

GAME: Clanga rolls 1d20+9: (6)+9: 15

GAME: Clanga rolls 1d20+4: (16)+4: 20

<OOC> Clanga says, "Spike, two Will Saves at -1 each."

<OOC> Spike says, "What is it a roll vs?"

<OOC> Clanga says, "Supernatural effect."

<OOC> Clanga says, "Charisma Based"

GAME: Clanga rolls 1d4-1: (2)+-1: 1

<OOC> Spike says, "No, I mean, the particular condition."

<OOC> Clanga says, "Fatigue.. which does affect war Golems... and Silence on the second."

<OOC> Spike says, "I know. But I get a bonus against it. :)"

GAME: Spike rolls will+2+2+3-1: (4)+1+2+2+3+-1: 11

<OOC> Spike says, "AND FAIL HARD ON ONE."

GAME: Spike rolls will+2+2+3-1: (12)+1+2+2+3+-1: 19

<OOC> Spike says, "Actually, the last one is 18."

<OOC> Spike says, "I get tired but I don't shut up?"

<OOC> Clanga says, "Yes, people wish it were the other way around, but it....."

GAME: Clanga damaged Spike for 2 points. 59 remaining.

The larger creature reels slightly from the blow from the war golem, but doesn't stop as it turns and attacks Spike back. It's bite manages to

sink into wood, causing the same unnatural wave of fatigue that affected Otto. The creature also touches Spike with one hand, but that fails to

have any effect.

<OOC> Clanga says, "Jinks, you're up."

<OOC> Jinks says, "I'll give the one Spike hit a rapid shot"

GAME: Jinks rolls 1d20+9: (4)+9: 13

GAME: Jinks rolls 1d20+9: (12)+9: 21

<OOC> Jinks says, "It'll be flat-footed for the first shot, at least."

<OOC> Clanga says, "Yep... which is 14."

<OOC> Clanga says, "So you hit on the second shot."

<OOC> Jinks says, "Haha, damn it all!"

GAME: Jinks rolls 1d4+2: (4)+2: 6

<OOC> Clanga says, "Sorry the dice have kept you out of it Zahd"

Jinks sloughs off the magic weave, popping back into view a stone's throw back from the melee with his bow drawn. The first missile already

flew wide by this time and the second shot -- the small, gnome-sized arrow more like a needle than a shafted missile -- strikes Spike's target

and tears a whole through tattered, dusty clothing. Two cracked marbles and a broken wooden figure tumble to the ground.

<OOC> Zahd isn't worries :D

<OOC> Zahd says, "Worried even."

<OOC> Clanga says, "Going to give Otto a couple minutes"

<OOC> Clanga says, "So... what should I do if Otto doesn't return?"

<OOC> Zahd does not know.

<OOC> Clanga says, "I'm actually sure that between the three of you you /should/ be about to defeat these."

<OOC> Spike says, "As the runner, it's your prerogative to hold the scene or continue."

<OOC> Clanga isn't going to be holding, "I already have one paused."

<OOC> Spike says, "Usual mode of operation though is to wait a reasonable amount of time and then continue."

<OOC> Clanga says, "Okay spike, go"

<OOC> Spike says, "Power attack on this weasel."

GAME: Spike rolls melee+1+1: (5)+9+1+1: 16

<OOC> Clanga says, "Fox"

<OOC> Clanga says, "Miss"

Spike flails around with her scythe uselessly,"SOMETIMES I LIKE TO PRETEND I AM A BUNNY RABBIT."

GAME: Clanga rolls 1d20+9: (18)+9: 27

GAME: Clanga rolls 1d20+4: (19)+4: 23

GAME: Clanga rolls 1d4-1: (3)+-1: 2

<OOC> Clanga says, "Actually ignore the second roll"

The rat headed undead bites at Otto again, causing the dwarf to collapse to the ground in exhaustion.

<OOC> Clanga says, "Zahd, finally your turn"

<OOC> Zahd says, "Are those two close enough together for a cleave?"

<OOC> Clanga says, "Not right now no."

<OOC> Zahd is going to rage and power attack the one that has been hit a couple of times with surprise accuracy.

<OOC> Zahd will flank too.

<OOC> Clanga hmms, "You'll get an AoE from one to get into flank with the other... though you can attack the second without the Flank with no AoE

<OOC> Clanga says, "AoO sorry"

<OOC> Zahd ponders.

<OOC> Zahd will 5 step after his attack to provide a chance for Spike to move into flank on her next turn.

<OOC> Zahd says, "Can do that, yes?"

<OOC> Clanga says, "Nope. You need to move before to get into melee, so no 5'"

<OOC> Zahd will just end its life then :D rage, power, surprise accuracy.

GAME: Zahd rolls 1d20+10: (11)+10: 21

GAME: Zahd rolls 2d6+16: (10)+16: 26

<OOC> Clanga says, "Good enough. :)"

Zahd watches stunned for a moment as these little freaks pop out from the bushes. He is obviously caught off guard as they move in. In the

confusion, he loses control and begins frothing at the mouth as so much goes on around him. Raising his sword high above his head he brings it

down with a vicious force upon the head of the fox-undead-child-thing. As the blade crashes squarely on the skull, it splits it cleanly and is

driven all the way to the ground below it. Toys, dust, bones and things unidentifiable splay across the ground in all directions. The beast within

Zahd has awakened. Only Kor can break his rampage now.

<OOC> Zahd was just informed his surprise accuracy was supposed to be a +2, but it doesn't matter :D

<OOC> Clanga grins and nods, "Definatley not... and with Hanzel destroyed, Jinks is up again.

<OOC> Jinks says, "I'll give the Gretzter a rapid shot, then"

GAME: Jinks rolls 1d20+9: (4)+9: 13

GAME: Jinks rolls 1d20+9: (10)+9: 19

GAME: Jinks rolls 1d4+2: (3)+2: 5

<OOC> Clanga says, "Spike you'll need a full move to get to Gretel (Zahd can do on a 5')"

"I told you not to let them touch you!" Jinks is shouting at the collapsed Khazad-aul, shaking his head as he sets another pair of mini-arrows

whistling through the air. Much to the same effect as the first volley.

<OOC> Spike says, "I'm confused... If we were just attacking the same person..."

<OOC> Spike says, "Eh. Doesn't matter. :)"

<OOC> Clanga says, "You're about 10' away from Gretel, Zahd is between you and it."

<OOC> Spike says, "Flounce up to gretel and PA her in the face."

<OOC> Clanga says, "Roll it"

GAME: Spike rolls melee+1+1: (20)+9+1+1: 31

<OOC> Spike says, "Possible crit."

GAME: Spike rolls melee+1+1: (12)+9+1+1: 23

<OOC> Spike says, "Confirm?"

<OOC> Zahd claps.

<OOC> Clanga says, "Yes, Confirmed"

<OOC> Zahd waves bye bye to Gretel.

<OOC> Zahd says, "4x."

<OOC> Clanga says, "Yeah... should do it."

'''GAME: Spike rolls 8d4+56: (15)+56: 71'''

<OOC> Zahd grins.

<OOC> Clanga says, "Needless to say you harvest it..."

<OOC> Zahd is going to continue his rage and bust down the door.

<OOC> Clanga says, "Sure, go ahead."

Spike is in the farmer zone. Intensely so. Still shouting, raving, and generally acting like a lout as usual, she continues to run around making

weird gargly noises and waving that scythe around,"HARVEST TIME IS HERE. STAND STILL WHILE I HARVEST YOU NOW PLEASE!" She whirls on

the beast, jogging towards it, and slides the enchanted head of the her scythe down in a leaping overhand swipe. The thing is split from head to

toe, splaying dusts bits, pieces, toys, and more all over the place. "HARVESTING PROCEDURE COMPLETE. I AM THE FARMINATOR."

Zahd is still in his maddened rage as he then turns to the trap door. He stomps it hard trying to bust through it. He growls and shouts like a wild

beast. Drool pours from his mouth as he gazes into the now broken trap door.

"... charming." Jinks mutters, glad he's a bit of a ways back from Zahd and Spike as they both berserk in their respective fashions.

There is no light in the bottom of the stair, and no movement either. But once everyone calms down and you make a /relatively/ more calm

examination of the anchient cellar you find both children still alive, though the older human boy looks like he hasn't eaten since he was taken.

Both children are completely asleep and unnaturally so... but Jinks can explain that it's a side effect of the creature's bites. Indeed each child

has several small marks, not enough to cause permanent damage, but definately bite marks.

You find one more thing in the basement, a tiny set of manacles attached to one wall under the stairs.

<OOC> Zahd says, "should we do exit poses?"

<OOC> Zahd says, "Or should we just keep the slow action poses?"

<OOC> Clanga says, "Exit poses is fine"

Zahd calms from his rage and examines the children. It takes a few minutes to recover from his rage, but during that time he removes his

cloak and fashions a sling to carry both children in. Before leaving the area he stands over the broken toys with the crossguard to his sword

over his brow. "Look here Kor, look here. These fallen creatures are my sacrifice to you."

"I do hope the two of you are capable or carrying our fallen compatriot and the enchanted children. My coat is far to fine to be shat upon and I

know enough of children to realize they leak with great frequency from both ends and without warning." The gnome dusts his hands off and

does a quick stock count of his quiver. "The Althean should come and see about these ruins. These damned souls would likely appreciate some

proper rites and a helping hand into the cold embrace of the Gray Lady." He sniffs and shrugs, producing his flask once again.

Spike forgets all about carrying the children for the moment. Zahd seems to be taking care of that anyway! Instead, she picks up the dwarf by

the back of his shirt, carrying him relatively easily... and steals a broken toy horse and carriage when she thinks noone is looking,"These are

mine."

[[Category:Logs]]

No Sympathy

2012-01-13T02:09:02Z

Teena:

'''No Sympathy'''

----

Overview: Children in a small village have gone missing, the call has gone out to the adventurers guild for heroes. What they get...

PCs:

Spike, War Golem Barbarian 5

Jinks, Gnome Bard 6

Otto, Dwarven Ranger 4

Zahd, Human Barbarian 4

Monsters: Attic Whisperer x2 (CR 4 each)

----

<OOC> Otto says, "Room for one more?"

<OOC> Otto says, "Spike is down. :D"

<OOC> Clanga could yes

Spike has arrived.

<OOC> Zahd cheers.

<OOC> Otto says, "Hmm. Any chance this will take more than 4 hours?"

<OOC> Clanga doesn't think so.

<OOC> Otto says, "I might switch out to Oz, but I do have him scheduled for a plot with Thunder at 7:30."

<OOC> Zahd will be here and active so waits on him will not be long.

<OOC> Clanga will get started soon, but is planning on it being fairly short.

''
The call has gone out from the adventurer's guild about a small villiage a few hours north of the City.

The priest of Althea is desperate for assistance and offering a reward.''

GAME: Spike rolls disguise: (20)+2: 22

''"Reward for assistance," mutters Zahd as he hefts his sword off of his back and onto his shoulder.

"Sounds good to me." He heads to the office of the adventurer's guild with a grin on his face and love

for Spike's zany disguises in his heart.
''

[RPOne] Clanga says, "Quick question. Do we want to use the shiney new Death Concent?"

[RPOne] Zahd is up for it.

[RPOne] Jinks is immortal. doesn't care either way.

Today, Spike has gone to an exceptionally (for her) elaborate length for her disguise. She put on a set of overalls, grabbed her scythe, and

stuck a blade of hay in her mouth. Assistance? Sounds like a chance to hit things. Pretending like she is in fact NOT Spike, and that she is

'obviously' not Spike, she even introduces herself to Zahd,"Hi! I'm Mike. I'm a farmer! I farm things."

<OOC> Spike says, "<---Totally not Spike."

GAME: Otto rolls Perception: (3)+9: 12

GAME: Zahd rolls perception: (19)+8: 27

Otto isn't much of Althean, but it's not entirely heathen deity and it's cold hard coin to spend, so why not? Otto scratches at his beard through

the cloud of thick pipe smoke that lingers around him, the stem of his pipe clenched between his teeth. He glances around and in some major

lapse of judgement or attention, doesn't notice Mike was in fact, Old Man Spike all along. Maybe it ain't tobacco he's smoking. "It's paying work.

At least we won't have to put up with that shithouse crazy golem this time around."

In seeing Spike in the overalls and cleverly placed straw shoot, Zahd looks to her and says with a sly grin on his face, "Hello Mike, that's a

mighty big scythe you have there."

Spike grins at Zahd and Otto,"'S like I say. I'm Mike, and I came teh scythe. We farmers use scythes a lot, you see." She sniffs a little bit. "I

plan ter fix them thar problems with some ancient farmalatin' techniquers. Ever hear the sayin' 'stronger 'n an ox'? Well, we farmers is stronger

'n oxes, yeh see."

Zahd looks over at Otto and looks at him as if he is joking or not. He has a mixed look on his face as if he is supposed to laugh or is confused.

He asks Otto, "So do you think it'll be just the three of us?"

The adventure's guild doesn't have much information, just directions and a some silver for simply taking the walk up the road. The day is

partially overcast, the sun making only occassional appearances to warm the cold day. You arrive at the hamlet of Baybridge just before noon,

and while only a few villages come out to see you, those that do look both frightened and hopeful. An young acolyte takes you to a small

building on the church grounds and offers you lunch while 'Mother Lytia' finishes her prayers.

Jinks was just there one moment, balancing his fancy little bow on his smart little adventuring jacket as now-quartet was preparing to leave.

Where he came from is probably best left unknown and/or may have something to do with why a handful of folk have taken to calling him 'the

invisible gnome.' He busies himself with sifting through a small satchel of parchment from ponyback on the way up the road, scoffing and

sniffing and tossing away bits here and there when their contents fail to please him.

Now at the table, he eyes the plate of food dubiously, poking its contents around before taking a small, expiremental bite. When it's clear that

the hard bisquits aren't poison he eats like a gnome who does enjoy eating for the act of eating.

GAME: Jinks refreshes spells.

Zahd eats his fill of the meal there and stuffs some bread into his breastplate. He either isn't very sneaky or doesn't really care if someone saw

him. He fills his wineskin with water and readies himself for where they must go.

Spike is still working hard at selling her 'expert disguise'. "WE FARMERS FREQUENTLY EAT CORN TO FUEL OUR FARMING ACTIVITIES. THIS IS

COMPLETELY NORMAL." Either she's gambling a dorf don't know nothin' bout no surface-dwellin' farmin'... Or she really is that oblivious. People

that know her... will probably lean towards the latter. She eyeballs Jinks,"You are very short sir. As they say big things come in small packages,

I must suspect that you in fact have a very big thing inside of you. Is it an ogre? How does it fit?"

Otto gnaws on a chicken bone absently, breaking it and sucking the marrow out. Mmmm...marrow. The dwarf has caught on to the fact that

there is no Mike, as masking personality is much harder when you are So Very Spike (Which is kind of being That's So Raven), and has taken

on his usual dour and taciturn attitude. In the mean time, he goes about maintaining his crossbow. "Maybe it's an owlbear. I've always wanted

to kill one of those. They make nice rugs."

The meal is infact quite delicious. It's clear whoever put it together (It's not delivered by an acolyte) went to some effort to keep the quality

high. You don't have to wait more than 10 minutes before the Priestess, a short matronly looking halfling, bustles in, "Oh thank the Goddess

you've arrived. I sent out the request in the middle of the night and I had no idea how long it would take before help would arrive." She takes a

seat at the head of the table, in one of several chairs designed for shorter folk, "I am afraid we have had several children vanish. Two days ago

one of the outlying farm couples reported their little boy missing. We mounted a search, but we weren't able to find anything. Two nights ago, a

number of townfolk reported hearing the sound of children playing in the dark, but no one saw anything. Then last night our Smithwife found her

own little girl missing from her bed."

Zahd nods as he picks at his teeth with his finger while the priestess talks. After she finishes he looks over at Otto and asks, "You're good at

tracking, right? Why don't we go to the house?" He doesn't seem to be one for long talks as he starts to stand up after his question. Checking

the straps on his armor he looks like he is ready to get moving.

"'Good things,'" Jinks corrects as he screws a cap back onto the tin hip flask. His rings clatter against the decorated sides of the container as it

disappears beneath the coat into one of many interior pockets. "'Good things come in small packages' and ogres are far from good..." And then

he stops talking to the wargolem in favor of sizing up the halfling and hear the Tale of Woe. "Sounds like fair folk. I'm guessing the parents are

attached to these children and don't just want to make another?" The way he's smirking he might be joking -- it's a bit hard to tell.

Spike informs Otto,"I wrestled an owlbear once. Then I got distracted by a rocking chair and walked all over its face to save everyone from the

chair. When I turned around again, it was dead." She frowns,"I always wondered what happened to that owlbear." Probably the other party

members killed it while she was smashing the chair. Still when Jinks corrects her, she says,"Oh... So... what good things are in you?" She

pauses and her eyes widen,"I... is it... is it candy? Can I have some?" She DOES seem to ponder something as she stands, and informs

Otto,"You know... the short one is right. They CAN just make more in their tummies."

The priestess gives Jinks 'that look', but then she turns on her most Beific smile. "May the goddess bless you with the Joy of parenthood that

you might understand." she says sweetly to Jinks. Her gaze turns to Spike, then shakes her head. "My acolyte will lead you to the Smith's

house. We've tried to keep the area around there clear so that you might be able to follow any tracks.

Otto sighs so hard one might think he sprained whatever muscle is responsible for it. "Reos grant me patience." He prays to himself, his right

forefinger pressing down the bulging vein in his temple. "Good, ma'am. We can set out presently." He says, throwing himself into his work to

escape the horrors of being in proximity to Spike. "We'll be back when we have someting to report. Shall we?"

Zahd nods to Otto and seems to position himself to follow along. He seems in good spirits as everytime Spike says something he stifles a small

bit of laughter as his glance generally leads to Otto to see his reaction to the chatter.

Spike taps her chin a little bit,"We also may be back with the head of a decapitated monster if something happens to be eating the children."

Yep. Way to reassure the priestess and the villagers.

<OOC> Clanga says, "Otto, can I get a survival role"

<OOC> Clanga says, "With your ranger bonus"

GAME: Otto rolls Survival+2: (2)+9+2: 13

<OOC> Otto says, "Stupid dirt. Why can't they be on something firm like rock."

<OOC> Spike says, "Can has aid?"

<OOC> Otto says, "No."

<OOC> Otto says, "You can't. You wait in the wagon."

<OOC> Spike says, "Fail."

<OOC> Zahd takes Otto's ranger card away and returns him to being an honorary Mul'rogue.

<OOC> Clanga says, "Who said that were a fail?"

<OOC> Spike says, "They're children, not master woodsmen."

"Might be a fairly small head..." Jinks says with a little sniff, hardly sparing a glance at the ambulatory machine after the last wave of

shenanigans. He's glad for Otto's presence, at least, as he seems to be setting the pace and has legs that aren't much longer than the gnome's.

He snatches up the bow and cinches it deftly into the buckle'n clasp webbing on his back. Arrows rattle in covered quivers and he jingle-jangles

with coins and jewelry. He hums quietly to himself and looks through another handful of papers while Otto inspects the ground.

The blacksmith turns out to be a young mountain dwarf named Jorl, maybe in his 40s. He and his wife are waiting near the doorway. The smith

tells you that his daughter Olia is barely four years old, and only started walking a bit within the last month. He points to her window at the side

of the house, with it's sil higher than Jink's head. There's a disturbance in the snowpile beneath the sil, then small tracks leading away. SOme of

the tracks are of a babe walking, while others are of it crawling... there appears to be only the childs tracks for a several hundred yards leading

out of town, though they occasionally vanish for a bit here and there they aren't /too/ hard to find again.. then they appear to simply stop.

<OOC> Clanga says, "Okay, you will need to make another roll now. You can have another person attempt an aid roll, or if someone else

has another idea to assist."

<OOC> Otto says, "I can roll above a 2. :D"

GAME: Otto rolls Survival+2: (16)+9+2: 27

GAME: Spike rolls survival: (11)+0: 11

<OOC> Zahd is a survivalist and has knowledge/nature :D

<OOC> Spike says, "<---Aid."

<OOC> Zahd laughs at Spike's Aid.

<OOC> Spike says, "You aid too, Zahd!"

<OOC> Zahd says, "Which one?"

<OOC> Spike says, "Survival!"

GAME: Zahd rolls survival: (9)+6: 15

<OOC> Clanga says, "Actually Spike's is enough"

<OOC> Spike says, "We can get over a thirty."

<OOC> Spike :D :D

<OOC> Clanga said another person. Not everyone. ;)

<OOC> Spike says, "Now Otto is all like: Okay, here's what happened-(Explanation like on monk.)"

<OOC> Zahd nods.

<OOC> Spike says, "Oh. Sorries Clanga."

<OOC> Zahd waits for poses cause he thinks it will be funny with Spike's aid.

<OOC> Spike says, "Spike's aid: Hey, look at that! Otto: That's nothing. I'm trying to concentrate. Spike: What about that. Otto: That's a tree.

Stop interrupting my concentration. Spike: What about that? Otto: I said- Oh, wait. Yeah. That might be something."

<OOC> Clanga says, "So feel free to pose looking around, then I will continue"

Jinks glances between Spike and Zahd briefly, eyes narrowing subtly, and then he takes a few steps and folds his arm. In the barbarian's

shadow, he's not forced to squint! He smooths at his goatee and watches as khazad and construct go to work. "You folks have any gnomish girls

in this village?" He non sequiturs the distraught dwarven couple with a glance askance.

Spike is walking around as the window is shown. Seeing a disturbance, she begins running around back and forth and in circles, pointing at

things and calling out to the others,"Hey, look at that! and that! And that! What about that? Or that? Oh, wow! What's that! Ew, gross! I think I

saw a dog poop- Oh, neat, a stick!"

Zahd crosses his arms over his chest as he watches Spike and Otto work in harmony. As Jinks makes his comment he stiffles another chuckle.

It appears he is having a grand ol time in this company.

Otto goes increasingly more pissed off and frustrated with Spike continues to generate a dire need for alchemical ritalin, teeth grinding as he

tries to focus. "ENOUGH. SHUT UP AND GO OVER THERE. I WISH I COULD MEET WHOEVER MADE YOU, THEY DESERVE A-" He says as he stalks

forward ahead of Spike to look at the ground before she tramples it. But splitting one's attention and turning your head back while walking

forward can be dangerous. Especially in a forest. Mid-sentence, he smashes his head into a low hanging branch hard enough to send his helmet

flying. A scream of dwarven obscenities flow from his mouth as he drops to his knees, one hand holding his head while he digs through the

underbrush to find his helmet, only to find....

At the end of the trail it is clear that the small child just sat down. It takes several minutes of searching the area to find anything that might lead

onwards. The trail is not much, just a whisp of disturbance in the snow, like someone drawing a feather along it lightly here and there. The only

reason it's a trail is that the disturbances are in a straight line. They are not consistent enough to be footprints. You notice that there's a

farmhouse off to your right through the woods, but the trail leads 'behind' it.

Spike cringes like a kicked puppy and starts sniffling like a small child about to cry.

"... may the pillars of your hall... Wait. What? That can't be literal. How would you... with false metal...?" Jinks is looking at his hands and

pantomiming acts you wouldn't normally pantomime in mixed company. Apparently, his Khazdul accent is flawless but the colloquialisms can still

stump even the bard.

Zahd can't stiffle this laughter as it pours from his large overmuscled frame like a torrent bursting through a damn. He grasps at his midsection

trying to keep his wind as he follows along behind Otto and Spike in their routine.

Otto seethes, the torrent of hate slowing to a crawl once he finally finds his helmet. Once his vision stops swimming, the farmhouse comes into

view. "Cease your damned jackassery! I see a farmhouse up ahead!" He hisses, pulling some brush out of the way to clear a trail and give off a

better view. His helmet is slowly slid back on, twitching as the cold metal slaps against the swollen bump on his head.

Spike spits back at Otto,"I'm not talking to you! You're a poopy head meany face."

Otto says, "Okay."

Zahd tries hard to get his laughter under control as the farmhouse comes into view. Unstrapping the sword across his back seems to bring him

into focus as he begins stepping a whole lot lighter than he had up to this point.

"With sufficient coin and the right connections I believe you can subject constructs to alterations of their normal operating procedures." Jinks

offers conversationally, creeping up closer to the dwarf and peering across the way. He has his bow loose and in hand and the rings have

vanished in favor of a pair of black, tooled leather gloves. So fashionable. "Attitude adjustment," he adds in a whisper, canting his head subtly

back at Spike. "Coyote laughs; did anyone want to place a wager as to our kidnappers racial orientation? I have a Dragonieri platinum that says

it's fae."

<OOC> Clanga says, "Perception checks from everyone as you continue to follow the trail."

Otto calms just a little, given the nearness of the percieved goal and the relative silence of Spike. He shoots a dirty look at Zahd, but remains

quiet and unslings his crossbow. With a quick, smooth motion the weapon is cocked and loaded and the dwarf stalks along the trail, taking point

as they move forward. "If they are? What do you know of those things?"

GAME: Otto rolls Perception: (11)+9: 20

Spike informs Jinks,"I think it's chairs. Or possibly a campy supervillain."

GAME: Spike rolls perception: (14)+8: 22

GAME: Zahd rolls perception: (17)+8: 25

Zahd breathes deep as he tries to keep his laughter under control. His eyes dart back and forth as he follows at the rear of the group; sword at

the relaxed ready position. He isn't much for words, but seems to be enjoying himself.

GAME: Jinks rolls Perception: (10)+10: 20

The trail definately doesn't lead to the house, though Otto detects more signs of people having been in the woods. It's clear that you're in the

area where the original child was abducted. None of the trails seem to notice the brushlike line that you are following, though the Ranger is able

to tell that the one you are following actually came after. Soon there is a sound up ahead, the high pitched sound of young voices. It's hard to

hear at first, but the tones suggest an arguement.

<OOC> Spike says, "... Time for spike to act all sneaky like. :D"

"All manner of thing... though the vary widely depending on the breed." Jinks says with a mild shrug and a glance to the quiver, pushing arrows

this way and that until he's found a set with black fletching. "Each has their own superstitions, weaknesses, and mannerisms -- most hate the

touch of cold iron."

Otto does the inevitable fist up in the air as the psuedo-tactical sign to stop and be quiet. "I hear the children. Jinks, you come with me and we'll

scout out ahead. If you hear this horn..." He picks up the small signal horn hanging from his belt as he looks towards Zahd and Spike, "Come

a'running. That sound like a plan?"

Zahd is walking with a light step. He is on high alert watching their rear and flanks as they follow along the path of anger. His laughter is

completely gone as a serious look overcomes his face when it gets real. As Otto gives out the plan, Zahd simply nods and takes a knee trying

to keep his large form low and out of view.

Spike smiles brightly and almost answers Otto... then she remembers she's not talking to him. Instead, she informs Jinks,"I also suspect that

they have a weaknesss to being murdered in the face. By being hit hard. Repeatedly."

<OOC> Clanga says, "Stealth Rolls from those who are approaching."

GAME: Jinks rolls stealth: (1)+11: 12

<OOC> Jinks says, "I'd like my 'once a turn mulligan' now, please."

<OOC> Clanga laughs

<OOC> Spike says, "We all know that me trying to sneak up on anything is just a bad idea."

GAME: Otto rolls Stealth: (12)+10: 22

<OOC> Clanga poses then.

As Jinks and Otto start forward, the arguement becomes clearer. It's of two children arguing over two toys, one wanting the others because it's

better than his... or hers... what is odd is that the voices on either side of the arguement keep changing, all young, all very childish, but varied

from sentence to sentence. Then Jinks steps on a twig with a loud crack and the voices cut off like a pair of children caught with their hands in

the cookie jar.

"Thul's shriveled cock." Jinks mutters darkly, staring daggers at the twig.

Zahd's brows rise as the little one makes a big noise. He mutters to Spike, "Perhaps there is something large in that small package." A grin

passes over his lips as he keeps a vigilant eye out.

Otto turns slowly to stare hatefully at Jinks. If Otto was every going to spontaneously develop Sorcerer powers to make someone's head

explode, it would be now. Fortunately, Otto took Cha as his dump stat, so the gnome is safe for now. Still, after that drawn out moment of

panic, Otto looks around and finds somewhere to take cover a few steps from Jinks. To leave him out in the cold. Or to use as actual cover if

there is a fire fight.

<OOC> Clanga says, "Perception for Otto and Jinks again, -4 for the other two if they want to make it."

GAME: Otto rolls Perception: (18)+9: 27

GAME: Zahd rolls perception: (5)+8: 13

GAME: Jinks rolls Perception: (13)+10: 23

GAME: Spike rolls perception-4: (2)+8+-4: 6

GAME: Clanga rolls 1d20+17: (20)+17: 37

GAME: Clanga rolls 1d20+17: (19)+17: 36

And there is only silence, not a rustle or motion in the area.

<OOC> Jinks says, "Going to cast invis if you don't mind, Clanga."

<OOC> Clanga says, "Go ahead."

Jinks shrugs at Otto and pulls a hand through the air like one might don a cloak. Little swirls of faint aether play as he hums a quiet tune and

pulls the magic around him -- vanishing from sight.

GAME: Jinks casts Invisibility.

Otto grunts in annoyance as he's left to his own devices, but slowly pulls away from the tree he was hiding behind and starts to creep forward

once again, one hand holding his crossbow, the other holding the signal horn.

<OOC> Otto says, "and hell, if I have time, I'll load a cold iron bolt first."

<OOC> Clanga says, "You can."

Zahd remains in his position as he keeps alert, waiting for the horn to signal a charge. He squeezes the handle of the blade like a stress ball.

Firm, gentle, firm, gentle.

The trail still exists, and Otto follows it in the straight line. THere's no sign of whatever was speaking, but Otto spots the edge of an old wall

foundation, lost in the undergrowth. A quick examination of the area reveals a doorway in the 'floor' of the long abandoned structure hidden

beneath some bushes.

Spike is crouched in a ready stance that more resembles a luchadore ready to pounce... but at least she's being quiet for the moment.

"Jinks, you around? Go get the other two. I think we lost the element of surprise." Otto stage whispers. His back goes against the wall

foundation while he waits for the others to get here.

Jinks isn't far from Otto, cloaked in magic and resisting the urge to hum this one tune about a fae luring a lonely sailor into a lake and drowning

him. You know the one. Poor bastard. At least he died with his sword out of its sheath. "Just send the golem down first, it'll take the brunt of any

attack..." His close returned whisper fades as he starts stalking back towards the other two.

And then he's looking between Spike and Zahd. "This is Althea, the Khazad calls you to his aid," he offers in a soprano sing-song voice from

nowhere.

Spike's eyes widen,"Does... Does that mean I should charge the trapdoor? I've never charged DOWN something before. I... I guess I could...

Wait a minute... If you're a goddess, why don't you do it yourself? It'd be like, way easy." Still, it does get her moving.

Zahd grins and shakes his head. He stands up and heads over to where Otto had gone off to. His sword over his shoulder. He doesn't seem to

be in much of a hurry as the battle horn did not sound. He keeps alert of the scenery about them as he makes his way forward.

Otto gestures towards himself once he catches sight of Zahd and Spike, "Heard some kids but they slipped off...Let me check this door here and

we'll head down." Otto murmurs, pushing himself off the wall to get a good look at the door for signs of use or traps or whathaveyou.

GAME: Otto rolls Perception: (1)+9: 10

GAME: Otto rolls Survival+2: (11)+9+2: 22

<OOC> Otto says, "Either or. :D"

"I only help people who breed. Or cry a lot about how beautiful 'true love' is." Jinks offers at Spike's advancing back in that same ladyvoice.

Sniggering, he glances heavenwards and sends an invisible wink before padding along after.

GAME: You clear initiatives.

GAME: Clanga has cleared initiatives.

GAME: Clanga rolls 1d20+17: (4)+17: 21

GAME: Clanga rolls 1d20+17: (8)+17: 25

<OOC> Clanga says, "Perceptions"

GAME: Zahd rolls perception: (6)+8: 14

GAME: Clanga damaged Spike for -30 points. 61 remaining.

GAME: Spike rolls perception: (18)+8: 26

GAME: Otto rolls Perception: (16)+9: 25

GAME: Jinks rolls Perception: (18)+10: 28

[RPOne] Jinks says, "Dice are starting to warm up. Finally."

GAME: You roll initiative for Hanzel: Roll: 14 + Bonus: +8 = Total: 22

GAME: You roll initiative for Gretel: Roll: 5 + Bonus: +8 = Total: 13

<OOC> Clanga says, "And Inititatives."

GAME: Spike rolls initiative: Roll: 17 + Bonus: 2 = Total: 19

GAME: Jinks rolls initiative: Roll: 18 + Bonus: 4 = Total: 22

GAME: Zahd rolls initiative: Roll: 8 + Bonus: 2 = Total: 10

<OOC> Otto says, "Are we underground or still messing around top side?"

GAME: Otto rolls initiative: Roll: 16 + Bonus: 4 = Total: 20

<OOC> Clanga says, "Top Side... am posing."

You are all expecting /something/ to happen, and as Otto gets to the door, a young boy's scream of 'No! They are ours!' catches only Zahd off

guard. Two small figures, each about the size of an adult halfling, burst out of the bushes to attack. The air is filled with the sound of childlike

sobs, whimpers and little whips of singsong. The effect is very disconcerting, and makes it hard to hear anything else. The two figures look like

emanciated children, but hteir skin looks like dust, and their clothes cobwebs and leaves. But it's their heads that are the most disconcerting.

One appears to have a fox skull where the head should be. The other has a rabbit skull.

Current Initiative Order
----------------------------------------
22 Hanzel

22 Jinks

20 Otto

19 Spike

13 Gretel

10 Zahd

GAME: Clanga rolls 1d20+4: (2)+4: 6

<OOC> Clanga says, "So people know, the two figures are within 5 feet of Otto, having been hidden in the bushes around the door."

The larger, fox headed figure, lashes out to try and push Otto away, but the dwarves reaction causing him to shift back slightly so the thin

fingers do not tocuh him.

<OOC> Clanga says, "It's a surprize round, everyone goes but Zahd.. who's really screwed."

<OOC> Jinks'll start singing. And a Knowledge check, if I might?

<OOC> Clanga says, "Jinks, you're up. Give me a quick +perform roll of your choice before you start singing."

GAME: Jinks rolls Perform/Sing: (3)+13: 16

<OOC> Clanga says, "16 will be good enough.... you know that with the wails and sobs, you can't use bardic performance."

<OOC> Jinks says, "Hooray!"

<OOC> Clanga says, "And... everyone takes a -1 penalty on all attack rolls, damage rolls, and Will saving throws"

<OOC> Clanga says, "You can still take an action,"

GAME: Jinks rolls Knowledge/Religion: (9)+9: 18

<OOC> Jinks says, "Enough to identify?"

<OOC> Clanga says, "Okay Jinks... these are Rare, but not as rare as a Tarasque so 18 will be good enough... Check Attic Whisperer in

Beastiary 2."

<OOC> Jinks says, "Going to back up out of the aura and shout a little."

<OOC> Clanga says, "Otto you're up."

<OOC> Clanga nods, "Good enough."

Jinks winces at the sound of tortured innocence, shaking his head and scampering back away from the haunting notes. "Someone should've

taken the bet! Thul's children are at play -- mind they don't snatch the breath from your lungs..."

<OOC> Otto says, "I waste it with my crossbow. DA, all the good stuff, after a 5ft step."

<OOC> Clanga says, "Shoot it"

GAME: Otto rolls 1d20+4+4+1+1-1-2: (3)+4+4+1+1+-1+-2: 10

<OOC> Otto says, "Doink."

<OOC> Otto says, "Glad to see my shooting dice are still shit."

<OOC> Clanga says, "Definately a miss. Spike"

<OOC> Spike says, "Rage and Charge one of the whisperers and PA on his bootay."

"The hell.." The dwarf exclaims as two freaky little skull head kids come scrabbling out of the bushes out of him. He takes a quick scratch shot

from the hip, which sends the bolt sailing over their heads, but he doesn't waste much time snapping another bolt into place after throwing back

the cocking lever on his weapon

<OOC> Clanga says, "Okay, make the roll."

GAME: Spike rolls melee+2+1-2: (12)+9+2+1+-2: 22

<OOC> Clanga says, "Hit."

<OOC> Spike says, "Do they have spells or spell-like abilities?"

<OOC> Clanga says, "No, no spells or Spell-Like abilities"

GAME: Spike rolls 2d4+9+6+1: (7)+9+6+1: 23

<OOC> Clanga says, "Good Roll, good deep cut... not enough to stop it."

GAME: Clanga rolls 1d20+9: (11)+9: 20

<OOC> Clanga says, "Otto, will save"

<OOC> Clanga says, "Rememeber your -1"

GAME: Otto rolls will-1: (9)+3+-1: 11

<OOC> Otto says, "awesome"

<OOC> Otto says, "13 if it's a spell-like ability. :D"

GAME: Clanga rolls 1d4-1: (4)+-1: 3

GAME: Clanga damaged Otto for 3 points. 37 remaining.

Oh. Hey. Look. That's uh... That's kind just... wrong-looking. Spike's head tilts to the side, mouth open for a second. Even by her standards, this

is just plain freaky. "THIS MAKES ME UPSET. PLEASE DIE NOW!" She raises her scythe in a two handed grip over her head and charges one of

the creatures, sparks flying from her ears and gears grinding and whirring audibly beneath her chestplate. As she reaches the creepy little

thing, she brings it down in a matter-gouting slash across its chest,"I AM A FARMER, AND YOU ARE NIBBLING MY CORN. I MUST NOW STOP YOU

FROM EATING MY CORN."

The smaller, rabbit headed demon, gives a shriek of rage that sounds like someone took a lollipop away from a baby. She jumps the few feet

forward and the teeth of the rabbit sink into Otto's loading hand. The bite is relatively minor, but a wave of fatigue sweeps through the dwarf.

He struggles to shake off the sensation, but fails to do so, making his movements lethargic.

<OOC> Clanga says, "As a reminder. Fatigued: A fatigued character can neither run nor charge and takes a –2 penalty to Strength and

Dexterity. Doing anything that would normally cause fatigue causes the fatigued character to become exhausted. After 8 hours of complete rest,

fatigued characters are no longer fatigued."

GAME: Clanga rolls 1d20+9: (20)+9: 29

GAME: Clanga rolls 1d20+9: (6)+9: 15

GAME: Clanga rolls 1d20+4: (16)+4: 20

<OOC> Clanga says, "Spike, two Will Saves at -1 each."

<OOC> Spike says, "What is it a roll vs?"

<OOC> Clanga says, "Supernatural effect."

<OOC> Clanga says, "Charisma Based"

GAME: Clanga rolls 1d4-1: (2)+-1: 1

<OOC> Spike says, "No, I mean, the particular condition."

<OOC> Clanga says, "Fatigue.. which does affect war Golems... and Silence on the second."

<OOC> Spike says, "I know. But I get a bonus against it. :)"

GAME: Spike rolls will+2+2+3-1: (4)+1+2+2+3+-1: 11

<OOC> Spike says, "AND FAIL HARD ON ONE."

GAME: Spike rolls will+2+2+3-1: (12)+1+2+2+3+-1: 19

<OOC> Spike says, "Actually, the last one is 18."

<OOC> Spike says, "I get tired but I don't shut up?"

<OOC> Clanga says, "Yes, people wish it were the other way around, but it....."

GAME: Clanga damaged Spike for 2 points. 59 remaining.

The larger creature reels slightly from the blow from the war golem, but doesn't stop as it turns and attacks Spike back. It's bite manages to

sink into wood, causing the same unnatural wave of fatigue that affected Otto. The creature also touches Spike with one hand, but that fails to

have any effect.

<OOC> Clanga says, "Jinks, you're up."

<OOC> Jinks says, "I'll give the one Spike hit a rapid shot"

GAME: Jinks rolls 1d20+9: (4)+9: 13

GAME: Jinks rolls 1d20+9: (12)+9: 21

<OOC> Jinks says, "It'll be flat-footed for the first shot, at least."

<OOC> Clanga says, "Yep... which is 14."

<OOC> Clanga says, "So you hit on the second shot."

<OOC> Jinks says, "Haha, damn it all!"

GAME: Jinks rolls 1d4+2: (4)+2: 6

<OOC> Clanga says, "Sorry the dice have kept you out of it Zahd"

Jinks sloughs off the magic weave, popping back into view a stone's throw back from the melee with his bow drawn. The first missile already

flew wide by this time and the second shot -- the small, gnome-sized arrow more like a needle than a shafted missile -- strikes Spike's target

and tears a whole through tattered, dusty clothing. Two cracked marbles and a broken wooden figure tumble to the ground.

<OOC> Zahd isn't worries :D

<OOC> Zahd says, "Worried even."

<OOC> Clanga says, "Going to give Otto a couple minutes"

<OOC> Clanga says, "So... what should I do if Otto doesn't return?"

<OOC> Zahd does not know.

<OOC> Clanga says, "I'm actually sure that between the three of you you /should/ be about to defeat these."

<OOC> Spike says, "As the runner, it's your prerogative to hold the scene or continue."

<OOC> Clanga isn't going to be holding, "I already have one paused."

<OOC> Spike says, "Usual mode of operation though is to wait a reasonable amount of time and then continue."

<OOC> Clanga says, "Okay spike, go"

<OOC> Spike says, "Power attack on this weasel."

GAME: Spike rolls melee+1+1: (5)+9+1+1: 16

<OOC> Clanga says, "Fox"

<OOC> Clanga says, "Miss"

Spike flails around with her scythe uselessly,"SOMETIMES I LIKE TO PRETEND I AM A BUNNY RABBIT."

GAME: Clanga rolls 1d20+9: (18)+9: 27

GAME: Clanga rolls 1d20+4: (19)+4: 23

GAME: Clanga rolls 1d4-1: (3)+-1: 2

<OOC> Clanga says, "Actually ignore the second roll"

The rat headed undead bites at Otto again, causing the dwarf to collapse to the ground in exhaustion.

<OOC> Clanga says, "Zahd, finally your turn"

<OOC> Zahd says, "Are those two close enough together for a cleave?"

<OOC> Clanga says, "Not right now no."

<OOC> Zahd is going to rage and power attack the one that has been hit a couple of times with surprise accuracy.

<OOC> Zahd will flank too.

<OOC> Clanga hmms, "You'll get an AoE from one to get into flank with the other... though you can attack the second without the Flank with no AoE

<OOC> Clanga says, "AoO sorry"

<OOC> Zahd ponders.

<OOC> Zahd will 5 step after his attack to provide a chance for Spike to move into flank on her next turn.

<OOC> Zahd says, "Can do that, yes?"

<OOC> Clanga says, "Nope. You need to move before to get into melee, so no 5'"

<OOC> Zahd will just end its life then :D rage, power, surprise accuracy.

GAME: Zahd rolls 1d20+10: (11)+10: 21

GAME: Zahd rolls 2d6+16: (10)+16: 26

<OOC> Clanga says, "Good enough. :)"

Zahd watches stunned for a moment as these little freaks pop out from the bushes. He is obviously caught off guard as they move in. In the

confusion, he loses control and begins frothing at the mouth as so much goes on around him. Raising his sword high above his head he brings it

down with a vicious force upon the head of the fox-undead-child-thing. As the blade crashes squarely on the skull, it splits it cleanly and is

driven all the way to the ground below it. Toys, dust, bones and things unidentifiable splay across the ground in all directions. The beast within

Zahd has awakened. Only Kor can break his rampage now.

<OOC> Zahd was just informed his surprise accuracy was supposed to be a +2, but it doesn't matter :D

<OOC> Clanga grins and nods, "Definatley not... and with Hanzel destroyed, Jinks is up again.

<OOC> Jinks says, "I'll give the Gretzter a rapid shot, then"

GAME: Jinks rolls 1d20+9: (4)+9: 13

GAME: Jinks rolls 1d20+9: (10)+9: 19

GAME: Jinks rolls 1d4+2: (3)+2: 5

<OOC> Clanga says, "Spike you'll need a full move to get to Gretel (Zahd can do on a 5')"

"I told you not to let them touch you!" Jinks is shouting at the collapsed Khazad-aul, shaking his head as he sets another pair of mini-arrows

whistling through the air. Much to the same effect as the first volley.

<OOC> Spike says, "I'm confused... If we were just attacking the same person..."

<OOC> Spike says, "Eh. Doesn't matter. :)"

<OOC> Clanga says, "You're about 10' away from Gretel, Zahd is between you and it."

<OOC> Spike says, "Flounce up to gretel and PA her in the face."

<OOC> Clanga says, "Roll it"

GAME: Spike rolls melee+1+1: (20)+9+1+1: 31

<OOC> Spike says, "Possible crit."

GAME: Spike rolls melee+1+1: (12)+9+1+1: 23

<OOC> Spike says, "Confirm?"

<OOC> Zahd claps.

<OOC> Clanga says, "Yes, Confirmed"

<OOC> Zahd waves bye bye to Gretel.

<OOC> Zahd says, "4x."

<OOC> Clanga says, "Yeah... should do it."

'''GAME: Spike rolls 8d4+56: (15)+56: 71'''

<OOC> Zahd grins.

<OOC> Clanga says, "Needless to say you harvest it..."

<OOC> Zahd is going to continue his rage and bust down the door.

<OOC> Clanga says, "Sure, go ahead."

Spike is in the farmer zone. Intensely so. Still shouting, raving, and generally acting like a lout as usual, she continues to run around making

weird gargly noises and waving that scythe around,"HARVEST TIME IS HERE. STAND STILL WHILE I HARVEST YOU NOW PLEASE!" She whirls on

the beast, jogging towards it, and slides the enchanted head of the her scythe down in a leaping overhand swipe. The thing is split from head to

toe, splaying dusts bits, pieces, toys, and more all over the place. "HARVESTING PROCEDURE COMPLETE. I AM THE FARMINATOR."

Zahd is still in his maddened rage as he then turns to the trap door. He stomps it hard trying to bust through it. He growls and shouts like a wild

beast. Drool pours from his mouth as he gazes into the now broken trap door.

"... charming." Jinks mutters, glad he's a bit of a ways back from Zahd and Spike as they both berserk in their respective fashions.

There is no light in the bottom of the stair, and no movement either. But once everyone calms down and you make a /relatively/ more calm

examination of the anchient cellar you find both children still alive, though the older human boy looks like he hasn't eaten since he was taken.

Both children are completely asleep and unnaturally so... but Jinks can explain that it's a side effect of the creature's bites. Indeed each child

has several small marks, not enough to cause permanent damage, but definately bite marks.

You find one more thing in the basement, a tiny set of manacles attached to one wall under the stairs.

<OOC> Zahd says, "should we do exit poses?"

<OOC> Zahd says, "Or should we just keep the slow action poses?"

<OOC> Clanga says, "Exit poses is fine"

Zahd calms from his rage and examines the children. It takes a few minutes to recover from his rage, but during that time he removes his

cloak and fashions a sling to carry both children in. Before leaving the area he stands over the broken toys with the crossguard to his sword

over his brow. "Look here Kor, look here. These fallen creatures are my sacrifice to you."

"I do hope the two of you are capable or carrying our fallen compatriot and the enchanted children. My coat is far to fine to be shat upon and I

know enough of children to realize they leak with great frequency from both ends and without warning." The gnome dusts his hands off and

does a quick stock count of his quiver. "The Althean should come and see about these ruins. These damned souls would likely appreciate some

proper rites and a helping hand into the cold embrace of the Gray Lady." He sniffs and shrugs, producing his flask once again.

Spike forgets all about carrying the children for the moment. Zahd seems to be taking care of that anyway! Instead, she picks up the dwarf by

the back of his shirt, carrying him relatively easily... and steals a broken toy horse and carriage when she thinks noone is looking,"These are

mine."

[[Category:Logs]]

2011-03-10T03:02:10Z

Teena:

2011-02-20T10:17:42Z

Teena: Undo revision 3931 by Teena (talk)

Tenebrae - Saturday, February 19, 2011, 12:12 PM
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\/ _____|\__,_| \/

------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Welcome to the Emblem of Ea
www.tenebraemush.net
A Pathfinder Edition Dungeons and Dragons Mush

Use "create <name> <password>" to recreate your characters. See
http://www.tenebraemush.net/index.php/Pathfinder_Conversion_Guide
for details and help.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

-=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=-<* Roleplay Room One *>--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=-

A plot room!

Channel: RPOne
Add: addcom r1=RPOne
DMs: +prhelp

-=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=-- Contents --=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=-
Kyra Tall blue skinned woman in full plate. Shield and Fla 0s 8s
-=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=-- Objects =--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=-
RP1 Timestop(#752I)
-=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--= Exits -=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=-
Plot Nexus <O>
-=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=-

Kyra sets herself up as the DM.
Aegremar has arrived.
Warden has arrived.
Askharr has arrived.

12:17, 20 February 2011 (EET)12:17, 20 February 2011 (EET)12:17, 20 February 2011 (EET)12:17, 20 February 2011 (EET)12:17, 20 February 2011 (EET)12:17, 20 February 2011 (EET)12:17, 20 February 2011 (EET)12:17, 20 February 2011 (EET)12:17, 20 February 2011 (EET)12:17, 20 February 2011 (EET)12:17, 20 February 2011 (EET)12:17, 20 February 2011 (EET)12:17, 20 February 2011 (EET)12:17, 20 February 2011 (EET)12:17, 20 February 2011 (EET)[[User:Teena|Teena]]
| Name | Race | Class | E Lev| CHP | HP | AC | For | Ref | Wil |
12:17, 20 February 2011 (EET)12:17, 20 February 2011 (EET)12:17, 20 February 2011 (EET)12:17, 20 February 2011 (EET)12:17, 20 February 2011 (EET)12:17, 20 February 2011 (EET)12:17, 20 February 2011 (EET)12:17, 20 February 2011 (EET)12:17, 20 February 2011 (EET)12:17, 20 February 2011 (EET)12:17, 20 February 2011 (EET)12:17, 20 February 2011 (EET)12:17, 20 February 2011 (EET)12:17, 20 February 2011 (EET)12:17, 20 February 2011 (EET)[[User:Teena|Teena]]
|Askharr |DAWN_ELF|Bard | 2 | 11 | 14 | 12 | 0 | 5 | 4 |
|Warden |WAR_GOLE|Sor | 2 | 12 | 16 | 12 | 2 | 2 | 4 |
|Aegremar |GIANTBOR|Bbn | 2 | 26 | 26 | 18 | 6 | 2 | 2 |

<OOC> Kyra sits on a throne, looming over the Roleplaying Room, "WELCOME!"
<OOC> Askharr snickers.
<OOC> Kyra says, "Okay, it's been a bit since I've run last, so appologies if I kill anyone. ;)"
<OOC> Warden says, "How do I reset my HP? It's still at 12/16."
<OOC> Askharr says, "Just to warn, this is my first scene so am going to need help with all the commands."
GAME: Kyra damaged Warden for -4 points. 16 remaining.
<OOC> Kyra takes care of damage stuff.
<OOC> Kyra says, "How did you get damaged Ask?"
GAME: Kyra damaged Askharr for -3 points. 14 remaining.

------------------- At a glance around Roleplay Room One -------------------
Askharr 45s 6'2" 111 Lb
Tall, lithe elven female.

Warden 2m 6'5" 250 Lb
A man wrought of gold and silver

Aegremar 18s 7'11" 658 Lb
A towering brutish Jotun.

Kyra 0s 7'6" 400lbs Lb
Tall blue skinned woman in full plate. Shield and Flail.
==============================================================================

<OOC> Kyra says, "ANd no problem on the commands."
<OOC> Warden says, "Quirk in the chargen code. It did the same to me."
<OOC> Kyra nods, "Ah okay. Well you're all good now. Warden, what's your Bloodline if you don't mind me asking."
<OOC> Warden says, "Celestial :)"
<OOC> Warden says, "Just wait till I hit 9th level and get wings. Cybernetic angel baby!"
<OOC> Aegremar says, "Just watch out for goblins. They'll cut 'um off and go hang gliding."
<OOC> Askharr calls dibs on them for hot wings!
<OOC> Kyra says, "Okay, question, do you want to have Death Concent? It will mean more XP, but if I /do/ happen to kill you, you

loose you're level."
<OOC> Askharr's cool with that.
<OOC> Aegremar says, "I'm fine with it."
<OOC> Warden will be fine.
<OOC> Aegremar says, "If Warden dies he's libel to come back as a Volkswagon anyway."
<OOC> Askharr says, "Can we name him Herbie if he does?"
<OOC> Kyra says, "Okay, last question for prep. Do you guys want to be in a Bar, or contacted by the Adventurers guild."
<OOC> Aegremar says, "Adventuers guild."
<OOC> Aegremar says, "But I can go either."
<OOC> Warden says, "Either works."
<OOC> Askharr says, "Either works for me as well."
<OOC> Kyra says, "We'll go with the Guild then."
[RPOne] Kyra has joined this channel.
Channel RPOne added with alias rp1.
-- Players --
Kyra(#644PXcHs)
Warden
Aegremar
Garrin
-- Objects --
-- RPOne --

*** Gamestart ***
There are always jobs on the boards outside the adventurer guild, promising gold for guarding caravans or clearing out rats nets.

Sometimes there's a poor soul who can't write or afford a scribe standing nearby, begging for help. Today there is a person standing

by, but she does not appear to be a begging type. In her late 30s, she is dressed in black from head to foot, including a lace veil.

This woman in mourning is speaking with one of the Guild Representatives, who clearly isn't sure whether what he is hearing is

serious.

Warden looks almost like a dandy or courtier, in his bright blue coat, white tunic, black breeches, and boots. It's topped off with a

broad brimmed hat that has an outrageous feather sticking out of it. As the elegantly overdressed wargolem approaches the Guild, his

pace slows as he takes in the woman in widow's weeds and the representative, his expression becoming curious.

The hulking Jotun, Aegremar, arrives with no great bravado. With an unhurried purpose he stoops before the board and falls to a

kneeling position before looking over the articles that have been attached thereupon. After a few moments and a lack of success in

finding something that suits his particular talents he gives a low exhalation before rising again to full height.

It is at this moment his heavy features fall upon the woman and the representative if only because they may have some work that is

not yet posted. His very presence prevents any sort of 'unobtrusive' lurking and so he walks for them, "What is happening?" He asks

directly.

Newly arrived, Askharr finds herself lost, her wandering trying to find an inn or tavern eventually brining her here. Dressed in her

bard's attire, the elven woman must stand out, especially when compared to the woman who is dressed in black, hand on her hip, she

slows and then pauses entirely, trying to eavesdrop without looking like she is, her gaze held anywhere but on the widow and the one

she speaks with.

"But I swear, my little Timmy is at risk! Whatever killed my husband is after him too!" The woman isn't quite hysterical, but could

certainly becomeso. The Guild Rep nods slowly, "Well, we could certainly find a few people who could take a look into the matter.

You're offer has been generous enough." He seems doubtful of the Woman's story, but money is money, so he looks around.

The giant lifts his chin at what he hears. He considers them there, "How and where did your husband die?" He asks plainly for having

only caught the end of it all.

Warden cocks his head, before letting the massive jotun ask the first question. "It can't be any worse than sewer diving," he remarks

cheerfully. Ugh. "I'll be happy to assist."

Askharr drifts closer, drawn into doing so by the poor woman and her words. "I can help if it is needed," she offers softly, her

voice nearly sing-song in tone. Looking at the others, she bows her head politely, her eyes drifting from Warden to the very tall

Jotun who gets watched for a moment longer than the former did.

The Adventure's Rep nods, 'There you go Ma'am. These three will come investigate for you. I am sure they'll be more than up for the

task." The woman snifts slightly, looking over the three of you in turn. Perhaps it's because Askharr is female, perhaps because

she's not a giant or golem, but the Widow focuses on the Bard, though she does answer Aegremar's question, "It was the family curse.

Long magic from generations ago. My husband's grandfather and Uncle each died of it, and now he's going to as well!"

Admittedly super natural investigation is not the Jotun's forte. This can be read in Aegremar's face as his sloped features darken

with some concern. He then turns his gaze from the widow and to Askharr. He considers her for a long moment and then looks to the

golem in his fancy clothes the giant's wide nostrils flaring and a heavy nod comes.

Clearly he considers either of them to be more useful in such an investigation than he but wherever one begins looking in dark

corners there is always some physical threat which may need to be countered.

"I will go." He replies directly, "..but I do not understand /how/ they died even if a curse was the reason." He looks to Askharr

evidently having picked up on the fact the widow is more amiable to the woman, "Bites, blows, or something different altogether."

Then to the golem he gives a slow shrug of his wide shoulders.

Warden nods thoughtfully, the feather on his hat bobbing. "I see. Let's adjourn then and investigate -- we've not a moment to lose if

we want to save your lad." He taps his metallic fingertips together, "If it's a supernatural issue I'm sure the lady and I can puzzle

it out; if it's something more mundane, well..." He nods to Aegremar. "I hear jotuns are good at throwing things. We'll see if the

culprit will bounce."

"A curse? What kind of curse is this?" Askharr's not a priest or any other form of holyman so isn't sure what they can do to help but

the Jotun seems at least familiar with the subject which allows for some relief to settle about her. Settling her pack more firmly

upon her back, she shakes her head, clearly confused. Yes, this will most definitely merit investigation. "Yes. We should hurry if

we're to save your son," she adds after, that spoken to the widow and the guild rep.

The guild rep seems pleased to have gotten a group of 'heroes' togeather to deal with this. The woman waves a fan over her face at

the discussion of how her husband died. "Oh that's the worst part! He was fine! One day he was working on some figures in his

office... he was an accountant you see... and the next he was dead, no blows or anything."

That seems mundane enough, more so than weeks of haunting nightmares and apparitions, and so the giant gives a nod to her, "We will

look." He then says evidently now as prepared as the other two.

The corners of his mouth turn to a vaguely amused smile to Warden's assessment but doesn't build upon it himself.

The woman leads you to her house in one of the middle class districts, "Since his Father's death, Timmy's been spending most of his

time in his Father's Office. He's been broody at dinner and...." She pauses as she looks around the entryway, "Odd, Vialle isn't

here. She must be out buying Groceries for Cook." The widower shakes her head, "I am sure Timmy will be downstairs again." She leads

you onwards, past the kitchen door and to a small door under the up staircase. The down staircase is a tight squeeze for Aegremar,

but the basement is tall enough for him to stand upright, though swinging a sword overhand might be problematic. The office is a

mess, but there's no one to be seen, "Timmy!? Timmy where are you?"

Warden cautiously steps into the office proper... stepping over to the desk, his glowing blue eyes sweeping over the clutter

impassively. Trying to glean some meaning from the paperwork scattered across the wooden surface.

Askharr looks around while the lady calls about, her expression bothered-bordering-on-worried. "How old is Timmy, ma'am," she asks

while trying to peek into the office herself, Warden peered around as he enters the room. She hangs back, allowing for the bigger of

the party to enter first before trying to slip in herself.

Aegremar proceeds with caution not due to some expectation of violence but rather a fear that his weight upon the stairs might have

some unfortunate effect upon the house's structure. Finally within the basement he stands tall though he raises one hand enough to

touch the ceiling as if needing to gauge exactly how much headspace he has.

Then, having no questions of his own at the moment, he begins to look about as well though he has no idea what he's looking for.

<OOC> Kyra says, "Everyone can make a +roll perception"

GAME: Aegremar rolls perception: (13)+9: 22
GAME: Askharr rolls perception: (14)+7: 21
GAME: Warden rolls perception: (16)+3: 19

<OOC> Warden says, "Not bad :)"
<OOC> Askharr woots!

While the Widow might not notice it, the fact that the bookcase on the far side of the room has been shifted, not once but

constantly, is fairly obvious to more experiences people such as yourself. What is less obvious is a faint trail of blood leading

under the case, just a few drops visible.

[RPOne] Kyra says, "Warden, you don't get the blood."

<OOC> Aegremar will inspect the bookcase for a method of moving it that is mechanical rather than just tearing it off the wall.
<OOC> Warden will inspect the bookcase as well (since he doesn't see the blood).
<OOC> Askharr will inspect the blood, then. Assuming she sees it?
<OOC> Warden says, "Probably needed 20+ to see the blood."
<OOC> Kyra says, "Yeah"
-- Players --
Rik
Kyra(#644PXcHs)
Warden
Aegremar
Garrin
-- Objects --
-- RPOne --
<OOC> Kyra says, "Askharr addcom rp1=RPOne"
[RPOne] Askharr has joined this channel.

Warden cocks his head, staring fixedly at one of the bookcases. "Ah, how cliche..." he comments, as he and Aegremar begin inspecting

the bookcase. "Will there be a piano puzzle too?"

The Jotun winds up kneeling alongside the bookcase so that he is more 'human' in terms of height. Bending forward he puts a wide

finger next to the faint swath of blood with a low thoughtful sound and then begins to run his wide hand over the bookcase, "I could

pull it off the wall." He says his voice low for Warden's benefit though still quite loud, "But there must be a way for someone a

human, or a boy, to have moved it."

While the males inspect the bookshelf the bard herself crouches down to give the droplets of blood an inspection. She doesn't mention

those outload, not wanting to panic the mother but it is most definitely something the others will be made aware of once they can

speak privately.

The Widow looks very surprized at the case, which actually rolls fairly easily to the side once you start examining it, "Oh my oh my!

I had no idea that was there!" The case leads to another set of stairs down, these very old and stone... possibly even older than the

house above.

[RPOne] Aegremar says, "Do y'all want me to go first in case its a Dire Wolverine or does the less threatening bard want to go first

in case its a frightened boy?"
[RPOne] Aegremar isn't sure what the heck Warden is. :)
[RPOne] Askharr says, "uhm...bard is breakable so the Jotun can go first. ;)"
[RPOne] Askharr will take up the middle. Let Warden cover her b... take the back.
[RPOne] Warden says, "Wargolem, but fairly squishy as well. You first"
[RPOne] Aegremar says, "Haha."

Long stairs which descend into unknown depths. Though the advantage of his height is he can consistently see what goes on ahead if

he's last he gives the other two a thoughtful look and then nods, "I will go first."

Then shifting aside he takes hold of the great maul that is harnessed beneath his hide cloak and pulls out the weapon wicked

instrument which takes even /his/ two hands to properly wield. Rising from a crouch then he starts forward and down the stairs,

"Someone have light ready."

"I think you should stay here, ma'am," Askkarr suggests gently. "In case your son comes back, I mean. We'll take care of checking

everything out." Clearing her throat, she lets Aegremar go first, more than happy to let him assume point, she then stepping behind

the very large one. "I didn't think to pack anything for light," she responds easily. Hopefully Warden will have something.

Warden is glad he brought his pack along. Without the need for such frailties as hunger and thirst, he can carry all sorts of neat

things. He rummages in it a bit before drawing an everburning torch out. "Will this work?" he inquires. With the torch in hand, he

makes sure his weapons can be drawn quickly before following Aegremar and Askharr down.

[RPOne] Askharr guesses now is a good time to equip a weapon.
[RPOne] Kyra says, "Yeah, could be. +inv then +equip # of the weapons, then +csheet"
[RPOne] Askharr says, "Thanks. :)"

With the light from the torch, you can see that the stair circles around. On the far side of the newer wall hiding the stair, the

ceiling is 10 feet tall. The widow nods at the suggestion she stay upstairs, "Oh please bring Timmy back safe and sound!" There is a

faint smell of rotting meat that rises as you decend downwards.

<OOC> Aegremar says, "Weird thing to want to roll for: But is there any check I can make to try to determine if the smell is akin to

a 'fresh rotting kill' as opposed to something that's been lying down there for eons?"
<OOC> Warden says, "...Ew. Probably Know/Nature. Does PF have survival as a skill?"
<OOC> Kyra says, "Knowledges"
<OOC> Aegremar says, "Eons is a bit much but you get where I'm going."
<OOC> Aegremar has survival and know/nature.
<OOC> Aegremar says, "Knowledge/Nature then?"
<OOC> Kyra says, "Know Nature is fine, Survival would be okay"
<OOC> Aegremar says, "My survival is higher. :)"
GAME: Aegremar rolls survival: (13)+6: 19
<OOC> Kyra says, "It's Fresh."

Aegremar does not rush their progress. The tight space would be confining for sudden combat and so he takes his time so that he has a

moment to gather their senses should he come upon something. Besides, slow and steady keeps him keen on his environment.

"That works fine." He does manage as the darkness is pushed off by the torch.

He blanches as the smell comes upward then, "Fresh kill." He intones darkly and grips the maul a bit tighter, "Let's hope the widow

is not feeding us to whatever is below." He says now implying that this could be a trap.

He continues to progress though. This is why they're here.

The soft hiss of metal sounds as Askharr draws her rapier during their descent, the sound borne from when she pulls it from the suede

'cradle' that is the sheath. "Something is amiss," she whispers once the scent hits, it getting her to wince. It might be faint but

it is one of those kind of scents that is unpleasant regardless of strength.

Warden can't really 'smell' as living creatures do, but clearly something is awry. "I see," he murmurs. Swiftly, his free hand traces

an elegant arcane pattern as he whispers soft words, and flickering planes of force appear around him and lock into place. "Better

safe than sorry," he says by way of explanation.

GAME: Warden casts Mage Armor.

The bottom of the Stairs opens into a large area, nearly 30 feet accross and 15 feet up, in a near perfect circle. The center of the

room has clearly been used as some sort of necromatic circle, ephasized not only by the chalk symbols, blood and candles, but by the

three unliving forms that turn towards you as the Giantborn reaches the bottom stair. Two look like they might be homeless, but the

one in the middle, least affected by the ravages of time, is dressed in a simple uniform. It seems Viallee has befallen a dark fate.

You clear initiatives.
Kyra has cleared initiatives.

[RPOne] Askharr says, "So I'm guessing that heal spells don't work with Wargolems..."
[RPOne] Aegremar says, "They do at half-effect I think."
[RPOne] Kyra says, "Half effect."
[RPOne] Warden nods.
[RPOne] Warden says, "Fortunately, not only does Warden's heavenly fire damage evil creatures, it heals good ones!"
<OOC> Aegremar says, "Do you want us to init?"
[RPOne] Askharr says, "Oh nice. :)"
<OOC> Kyra says, "Yeah, might as well +init"
Aegremar rolls initiative: Roll: 4 + Bonus: 2 = Total: 6
Warden rolls initiative: Roll: 10 + Bonus: 2 = Total: 12
<OOC> Aegremar giggle.
<OOC> Warden says, "Just type +init, Askharr :)"
You roll initiative for Zombies: Roll: 6 + Bonus: 0 = Total: 6
Askharr rolls initiative: Roll: 9 + Bonus: 2 = Total: 11

===== Current Initiative Order =========
----------------------------------------
12 Warden
----------------------------------------
11 Askharr
----------------------------------------
6 Aegremar
----------------------------------------
6 Zombies
----------------------------------------
========================================

<OOC> Kyra says, "Okay Warden, you're up first. 3 Zombies."
<OOC> Warden says, "Hmm. Is there light here?"
<OOC> Kyra says, "There's a few lit lanterns around the edge of the room yes."
<OOC> Warden tosses his everburning torch out to the floor (it's magic, it'll keep glowing) and fires a heavenly fire ray at the

closest zombie.
<OOC> Warden says, "Ranged touch attack."
<OOC> Kyra says, "Okay."

GAME: Warden rolls 1d20+3: (15)+3: 18

<OOC> Warden kays. He takes 1d4+1 divine damage if that hits :)
<OOC> Kyra says, "Yeah, that definately hits. :)"

GAME: Warden rolls 1d4+1: (3)+1: 4

<OOC> Warden has frigging Color Spray as one of my level 1 spells. Color Spray. So far I've fought oozes and now undead. Dammit :D
<OOC> Kyra says, "Okay, you do some damage to Vialle. Pose it."
<OOC> Kyra says, "Sorry"

Warden doesn't gasp, but his eyes pulse as a sensation races up his polished steel and brass spine. Horror. Disgust. The zombies

offend him on some visceral, almost intellectual level, and he casts his torch down the stairs to leave his hands free. Silvery-white

light pools in one golden hand, and he points at the closest zombie, the unfortunate Vialle -- a beam of light striking the

unfortunate animate and starting to break down the creature's unholy power.

<OOC> Kyra says, "Ashkharr, you're up"
<OOC> Askharr says, "Will try to attack one of the non-Vialle zombies with a melee attack."
<OOC> Kyra says, "Okay, +roll weapon# (Where the # is the +inv number of the weapon)"
GAME: Askharr rolls 5: (13)+5: 18
<OOC> Askharr says, "Think...I did that wrong..."
<OOC> Kyra says, "You hit. +roll weapon dice+str (+roll 1d6+2 if 2 is your strength)"
<OOC> Kyra says, "Actually you did."
<OOC> Kyra says, "+roll weapon5"
<OOC> Askharr says, "Oh! Sorry. :)"
<OOC> Warden tests.
GAME: Warden rolls weapon2: (12)+1: 13
GAME: Warden rolls weapon1: (1)+4: 5
<OOC> Warden says, "Interesting."
<OOC> Warden stops now :)
<OOC> Askharr says, "What is the damage for a rapier?"
GAME: Askharr rolls weapon5: (10)+1: 11
<OOC> Warden says, "1d6"
<OOC> Warden says, "It'll show on +csheet"
<OOC> Askharr says, "Oh yeah! Thanks, hun. :)"
<OOC> Kyra says, "You miss wth the strike though... just off a bit"
<OOC> Askharr says, "Alright. :)"
<OOC> Kyra says, "Aeg"
<OOC> Aegremar says, "In true barbarian fashion I am charging whatever enemy is closest and smashing it with RAGE!"
<OOC> Askharr says, "We pose the miss too, yes?"
<OOC> Kyra says, "Well, Vialle is closest, though you could hit another without difficulty."
<OOC> Kyra says, "Yes."
<OOC> Aegremar says, "Well, while its more strategic to attack another I think that defeats the purpose of an anger induced charge.

Especially since the holy bath occurred basically concurrently."
<OOC> Aegremar says, "Were we long-standing allies Warden would've known to not attack the closest one! Such is pickup group. :)"
<OOC> Aegremar rolls.

The bard is appalled by the sight before them, especially that of the undead which seem intent on advancing upon them. Taking a

offensive stance, she advances on one of the non-uniformed zombies, seeking to stab it with the point of her rapier but misses,

Askharr perhaps off of her game due to her shock.

GAME: Aegremar rolls weapon1+4: (4)+7+4: 15

<OOC> Kyra says, "Hit"

GAME: Aegremar rolls 2d6+9: (9)+9: 18

<OOC> Warden says, "Well, it WAS a zombie."
<OOC> Kyra says, "Your blow seems to be absobed by the dead flesh to a certain extent (-5 damage) but that's still enough to splatter

it, especially with the Holy Damage"

Though Aegremar is the first down the stairs the suddenness of the zombies and brief distraction by the contemplation of some great

trap leaves him the last of his fellows to act.

Anger flashes about his features as the loathsome horrors turn their hoary visages upon him and without pause to consider the actions

of his fellows he rushes forward with a fearsome cry that brings bits of worn mortar down upon him.

He swings backwards as he begins his charge and then powers around as he draws close. Only to invade the Zombie's personal space and

bring the maul in hard.

He connects with the Zombie's torso and the thing explodes in a hammer-smash of dried bones and gore. Limbs separate and the thing

flies in several different directions.

<OOC> Kyra says, "Zombies both Charge Aeg"
<OOC> Kyra says, "Ah"

GAME: Kyra rolls 1d20+4: (13)+4: 17

<OOC> Kyra says, "Actually that's a charge, so 19"

GAME: Kyra rolls 1d20+6: (19)+6: 25
GAME: Kyra rolls 1d6+4: (1)+4: 5
GAME: Kyra rolls 1d6+4: (6)+4: 10
GAME: Kyra damaged Aegremar for 15 points. 11 remaining.

[RPOne] Askharr says, "ouch"
<OOC> Aegremar has extra rage HP if you wanted to soak them first?

The two remaining Zombies are completely unaffected by the destruction of their newest companion, and instead give a drawn out

growl/moan and charge forward. The first strikes the Giantborn solidly in the side, while the second manages to connect just below

the armored chestpiece, knocking some wind out of the Barbarian.

<OOC> Kyra says, "I am keeping them in account, but since the damage caries over when you unrage, we'll leave it as is."
<OOC> Aegremar says, "Okay. :)"
<OOC> Warden hmms.
<OOC> Kyra says, "Yeah Warden, you're up."
<OOC> Warden spends a move action to pull out a bottle of holy water, and strikes at one of the other zombies with heavenly fire

again.

GAME: Warden rolls 1d20+3: (10)+3: 13

<OOC> Kyra says, "Roll it. Hit"
GAME: Warden rolls 1d4+1: (2)+1: 3
<OOC> Kyra says, "Okay, you burn it some. Ash"

Warden lets out a shout of approval as Aegremar's first strike reduces the lead zombie to random parts. "Good hit! Keep it coming!"

He fishes a vial of sanctified water from his belt, carrying it in one hand as he thrusts out the other -- another beam of divine

energy raking down the zombie's arm, the flesh spontaneously... not burning, but evaporating, like ice in the sun.

<OOC> Askharr will cast cure light wounds on Aeg.
<OOC> Kyra says, "Okay, so +readysp first"

GAME: Askharr refreshes spells.

<OOC> Warden nods. You're a spontaneous caster like me.
<OOC> Warden says, "If you look at +spcount it shows you what spell 'points' you have available."
<OOC> Kyra says, "So +cast bard=cure light wounds"

GAME: Askharr casts cure light wounds.

<OOC> Kyra says, "Now +roll 1d8+2"

GAME: Askharr rolls 1d8+2: (7)+2: 9

<OOC> Warden says, "Nice."

GAME: Kyra damaged Aegremar for -9 points. 20 remaining.

<OOC> Kyra says, "Okay, so you cure a large chunk of the bashing damage the Barbarian took. Aeg you're up."
<OOC> Aegremar says, "I'm hitting the one that hurt me most."

GAME: Aegremar rolls weapon1+2: (1)+7+2: 10

<OOC> Aegremar says, "And missing."
<OOC> Kyra says, "Okay. Their turn again. One attacking Aegremaar, the other turning and moving towards Warden."

GAME: Kyra rolls 1d20+4: (15)+4: 19

The elf notices just how hard the Jotun has been it, it getting her to switch tactics, taking a supportive role instead of the combat

one she had first assumed. Stepping out of the way in a hurry, Askharr starts to sing, weaving the bardic magic about and around

Aegemar, healing the hulking male as the short musical refrain sounds.

<OOC> Warden's AC is now 16 thanks to Mage Armor.

GAME: Kyra rolls 1d6+4: (3)+4: 7
GAME: Kyra damaged Aegremar for 7 points. 13 remaining.

<OOC> Kyra says, "It doesn't get to attack you."
<OOC> Warden ohs.
<OOC> Warden shows appreciation by lobbing holy water at it.

Fetid talons lash across his flesh the first biting deeply through muscle and skittering across bone while the second severely

bruises his ribs beneath chain armor.

This serves only to further antagonize the giant and he whirls to the thing which struck him the most deeply even as that wound fills

with radiant energy and is left clean for the efforts of Askharr.

He swings hard but forgets the room. The overhead swing catches the maul upon the ceiling and holds it fast for a brief moment.

Aegremar pulls through, tearing a divot in the ceiling, but it has catastrophic results upon his aim.

He winds up striking the ground with a terrible amount of force.

<OOC> Warden rolls another ranged touch with the holy water. Have a bath!

GAME: Warden rolls 1d20+3: (12)+3: 15

The one Zombie managed to get a solid hit on the Jotun continues to strike at Aegremar, pummeling the wild warrior with unreleting

fists. The second Zombie is distracted by the divine damage dealt from the Golem, and turns towards Warden, moving slowly as is the

wont of these Undead.

<OOC> Warden believes that's a hit :)
<OOC> Kyra says, "It does"

GAME: Warden rolls 2d4: (5): 5

<OOC> Kyra says, "Still up. It will be able to attack you this round. Ask"

[RPOne] Askharr says, "Does healing spells still do damage to undead? Not that I plan on using it for that. Just curious. :)"
[RPOne] Kyra says, "Yeah it does."
[RPOne] Aegremar says, "I think so."

<OOC> Askharr says, "Going to try and attack the one zombie that keeps beetchslapping Aeg."
<OOC> Aegremar bitch.

Warden watches the zombie start to lurch towards him. "That's right, you sorry bastard. Right here. Come and get me... but only after

you have a bath!" He flings his vial of holy water in a smooth ballistic arc that terminates on the zombie's chest, the vial

shattering and the blessed water starting to eat into the zombie's flesh like acid.

[RPOne] Warden says, "As far as I know it does. Will check."

<OOC> Kyra says, "Okay. Roll to hit."

GAME: Askharr rolls weapon5: (17)+1: 18

<OOC> Kyra says, "Hit."

[RPOne] Warden says, "They can save vs Will for half damage if hit with a cure spell."
[RPOne] Askharr says, "Thanks. :)"

<OOC> Warden says, "Oh yeah, forgot to do this:"
<OOC> Kyra says, "+roll 1d6+0"

GAME: Warden used a Holy Water.
GAME: Askharr rolls 1d6+0: (3)+0: 3

<OOC> Kyra says, "You're Rapier sinks in a bit, then comes out with a slight shlorp... and doesn't seem to have done anything (-5

Damage)"
<OOC> Kyra says, "Aeg, you're up."
<OOC> Aegremar smash, "Power Attack 2."
<OOC> Warden says, "Go CRAZY."

GAME: Aegremar rolls weapon1: (18)+7: 25

<OOC> Kyra says, "Actually in this game it's different (PF changes). If you're level 2 it's a -1 to hit, +2 Damage."
<OOC> Kyra says, "So go ahead and splatter."

The song ends and the bard attacks again although it doesn't do anything, it getting Askharr to balk. "Damnation," she hisses angrily

while stepping back. This is not something she was trained to do, that being with dealing with the undead, and she's thrown for a

loop.

<OOC> Aegremar says, "Does that compound with two handed? So 3 damage?"
<OOC> Kyra says, "Right, 3"

GAME: Aegremar rolls 2d6+12: (6)+12: 18

<OOC> Kyra says, "Okay, -5 again, but still enough to smash from full to 0"
<OOC> Kyra says, "Last Zombie Swings at Warden"

GAME: Kyra rolls 1d20+4: (4)+4: 8

<OOC> Warden says, "...No. :)"

[RPOne] Askharr says, "Yay for creepy undead who leave the squishy bards alone! XD"

<OOC> Warden takes a five foot step back and blasts the silly bugger. Just so he'll watch me and not the angry barbarian who's going

to splatter him across the room.

GAME: Warden rolls 1d20+3: (12)+3: 15

The zombie continues to hammer at the Jotun tenderizing his mid-section with its unholy might.

With his weapon planted in the floor Aegremar gives a ferocious look and swings bodily aside and up. The maul impacts upon the beasts

pelvis and shatters it to pieces. Its legs fall to either side and the maul winds up planted somewhere in the creature's abdomen from

blunt-force trauma alone.

The giant shakes his weapon free of the remains.

The final Zombie continues forward, mindless (litterally) to the destruction of the other Zombie at the hammer of the Jotun. It

flails it's fist at the Golem, but the swing barely grazes the mystical shield, let alone damaging Warden.

<OOC> Kyra says, "Okay, damage warden."

GAME: Warden rolls 1d4+1: (4)+1: 5

[RPOne] Aegremar says, "Nice. :)"

<OOC> Kyra says, "Down."

Warden watches the blow glance off the force barriers around him, and coolly raises his hand up as he takes a prudent step backwards.

"Sorry, friend. For what it's worth, I know this was never your fault." The silver beam drills right into the zombie's forehead,

leaving a neat, charred hole, and the corpse crumples to the floor, dead -- again.
With the zombies defeated, a more... undestracted... look around the room reveals another doorway opposite the staircase, this one

solid wood, though there are no mystical symbols on it that you might expect.
The flush of adrenaline fades from the Jotun and the wounds he has endured become plainer to him. His shoulders heave and he takes a

second to catch his breath for the few moments of fatigue.

Noting the door then he uses his maul as a crutch and then pushes himself to full height before readying it again, "We ready?"

<OOC> Aegremar has about 30 minutes.

Warden watches the body for a moment to make sure it's down, before looking at the barbarian cautiously. "Are you fit?" He's not

questioning his prowess -- merely his state of health. He studies the door carefully, scooping up his torch again.
Askharr looks at the hulk and frowns, clearly at a loss as what to do. She wanders after but doesn't say anything, the bard instead

humming, waiting to be called upon if needed before doing or saying anything more.

<OOC> Kyra hmmms.
<OOC> Kyra says, "Trying to decide whether to go wtih another scene, since Aegremar has to go soon"
<OOC> Warden says, "30m really isn't a lot. Could we pause and pick it back up?"

The Barbarian gives a deep sound, "For three more - maybe." He says ready to go boldly further but not blind to his limitations, "Let

us hope that whatever is beyond is no less forgiving than what we have seen." He starts forward then giving the door a cursory

inspection for the unusual before preparing to open and reveal what is beyond.

<OOC> Kyra says, "Unfortunately time constraints make picking up further difficult. I'll wrap it up easily enough ;)"
<OOC> Aegremar says, "Depending on what's beyond I think we could probably take that out, puzzle it, in 30m if we're quick about it.

At least to some kind of abbreviated resolution."
<OOC> Aegremar says, "If thats what you want to do."

The door is not barred from the far side, though it's clear it can be. Inside is a plain looking office, much like the one up top.

Except this office has skulls on bookshelves, pickled eyeballs and other items of less... pleasant nature. There is currently no one

inside.

GAME: Warden casts Detect Magic.

Warden peers inside as he follows the barbarian... tracing another spell in the air, sparks racing up and down his metallic frame for

a split second as he gazes around the room carefully. "A little unusual for a middle-class merchant, isn't it? For a hobby, I mean."
"Indeed." Askharr frowns while looking around, trying hard not to look too lingeringly upon the more vile items that are to be found

here. "So much for it being a 'curse'," she intones darkly afterward, sounding almost as if she is wishing that it was that instead

of what has obviously befallen those who have been lost.

<OOC> Kyra says, "General +roll perception for those who wish it."

When the office proves clear the giantborn enters nodding as the golem speaks, "Yes." He says without distraction. When all three are

in he pushes the door closed, "So no one gets us from behind." He explains in doing so.

Then he begins to search about as he did in the other office.

GAME: Aegremar rolls perception: (11)+9: 20
GAME: Warden rolls perception: (4)+3: 7

<OOC> Warden looks upward. "So /that's/ where they put the ceiling. Clever bastards!"
<OOC> Kyra grins. "Aegremar, perhaps unimaginatively, there's another bookcase exit.
<OOC> Kyra will pose for Warden

The Jotun is no scholar but he's no fool either. He begins his search at the bookcase which proves to be similar to the first, "I

think we've found our exit."

To the Golems magically enhanced senses, the room radiates very old magic. More notably is the absense of several objects that have

left a definate mark on the room. A reading pedistal is missing it's book, and there is a wand stand on one bookshelf that is empty.

Other items may be missing as well, but those are the notables.

Warden studies the stand and the pedestal for a few moments. "Something was here. Old. Powerful. Oh, you found something, friend?" He

starts, jarred finally out of his magically-augmented reverie, by the Jotun fiddling with one of the bookcases.

Pausing, she looks at the shelves, her brow creasing as she tries to figure out just what has been going on in here. "Did you find

anything," Askharr asks the others, her voice distant as she slowly succumbs to being lost in thought. It takes a moment before it

registers that the Jotun has found something and she turns around, approaching them.

When the Cabinet is shifted, there is a waft of something foul, but at the same time less sinister. Well perhaps less sinister. At

the end of a very short hall is a stone and metal doorway, and from the smell coming from the other side, it leads directly into the

sewers. Its probably concealed on the other side. As with the rooms you are in, the work is very old.

<OOC> Aegremar says, "The door opens so we can see the sewers?"
<OOC> Kyra says, "You can yes"

Warden makes a soft clinking sound as he slaps his hand across his face. "Oh for... not the sewers AGAIN! Even with magic it's hard

to get those stains out, not to mention the smell..."

The Jotun covers his mouth and nose with one broad hand while following the tunnel to the metal doorway.

"I believe we have met our goal." His voice is muffled for his hand, "The 'curse' is solved and unless there is a greater prize I am

not mucking about in the /sewer/ with open wounds on some curious fool's errand."

"I say we report what we've got and let them decide how to deal with this by risking their own lives/fortune."

<OOC> Aegremar ever the realist.

The doorway can be closed as easily as it opens, cutting off the worst of the smell. The doorway can also be locked from this side if

you so choose, with two metal bolts. Now comes what you tell the mother.

<OOC> Warden says, "Hell, what DO we tell her? Your maid was a zombie, your son's probably missing, and there was a wizard living in

your root cellar?"
<OOC> Aegremar says, "Let the bard sing it to her. :)"
<OOC> Warden says, "We don't have Jonathan Coulton with us, Aegremar."
<OOC> Aegremar says, "But seriously, I think that's exactly what we do tell her. It's the truth. Maybe she should move."

Askharr shakes her head. She doesn't want to have anything further to do with this, herself, but part of her is kind of wanting to

see what kind of gains they might be rewarded with before deciding one way or another. "I think we have cultists or something similar

on our hands," she offers after mulling the first point over in her head awhile. "Tell her there is no curse. Just evil people..."

Pausing, she shakes her head again, falling silent.

<OOC> Askharr is not a CandyGram delivery elf. :P
<OOC> Kyra leaves this up to you guys

The Jotun nods at Askharr, "You can tell her." He says plainly, "She likes you." He says deeply supportive.

He then locks the door and starts away from the smell.

<OOC> Askharr says, "Lovely. Thanks, guys. :D"
<OOC> Aegremar hee.

Warden looks a bit worriedly at the door. "Maybe we can take this up the chain, with the city guard or something. I'm certain they'd

object to someone making zombies in the city limits." He sighs. "Probably need more manpower down here to root it out, rather than

just the three of us."

Aegremar nods to that, "That is what I think as well." He agrees.

Askharr takes a deep breath. "You two talk with the guard. I'll talk to the mother." It's not a task she was wanting to do but since

it seems like the males will be volunteering her then she has no choice. Probably better for the woman anyhow. "Let's get this door

barred up so they can't get back in and let's get to it."

<OOC> Aegremar says, "If its possible to lock the door then 'break' the mechanism I would. If only to confound whoever it is from

coming back until the city has sent someone down here."
<OOC> Warden says, "So, we're gonna block the doors off so nobody can come up this way."
<OOC> Aegremar nods.
<OOC> Kyra says, "Yeah, that shoudn't be too hard to block it. It doesn't /break/ very well, but it's not designed to be opened from

the other side it seems anyway"
<OOC> Askharr says, "Oh. I misunderstood. Was thinking it was a two way door. Ah well. Askharr would assume that's the case anyhow.

:)"
<OOC> Aegremar was too.
<OOC> Aegremar will block it off anyway because he's the muscle.
<OOC> Aegremar also noms everyone as he's about to drop off.
<OOC> Aegremar says, "I really apologize for not being able to stick it out another hour or so."
<OOC> Warden passes out the noms! Nom nom nom.

GAME: You nominated Warden for good roleplay.
GAME: You nominated Askharr for good roleplay.
GAME: You nominated Aegremar for good roleplay.

<OOC> Aegremar says, "But Aegremar is agreeable to doing anything that's not a sewer adventure."
<OOC> Kyra tosses out some Noms too.
<OOC> Aegremar says, "Except for talking to the widow. That's Askharr's job."
<OOC> Aegremar :)
<OOC> Kyra says, "So Askharr, +roll diplomacy. ;)"
<OOC> Askharr says, "how do you +nom people here?"

GAME: Askharr rolls diplomacy: (11)+7: 18

<OOC> Aegremar says, "+nom <person>"
<OOC> Warden assists Askharr on the roll!

GAME: Warden rolls diplomacy: (5)+5: 10

<OOC> Askharr snickers. Wargolems not too good with the dipomacy thing.
<OOC> Kyra grins, "Nearly blew that."
<OOC> Warden says, "Thank God for my 19 Charisma.,"

Your report of the Zombies and the lack of Timmy causes the woman to scream and faint. When she comes to a few minutes later she is

at least not blaming you for the dissapearance of her Son, which means you'll probably get paid. She rushes off to the watch, which

you can follow along with. For now you're part in this mess is over.

<OOC> Aegremar says, "G2G. Thanks for the fun."

Aegremar has disconnected.

<OOC> Askharr says, "Phew! Heck of a way to get broken in here. :)"
<OOC> Askharr says, "Thanks for the scene Kyra."
<OOC> Kyra says, "Hope you guys liked it."
<OOC> Askharr did!
<OOC> Warden did too :)