Lost And Found

=====================> 10) Lost and Found <=====================

Open/Closed: CLOSED: This event is only for the Confirmed players below. However, you can still sign up for this event with +event/signup, to let the GM know that you're available if one of the Confirmed players doesn't show up. Poster: Lash Start Time: 12:01:00 PM (EDT), Saturday, February 02, 2013 Location: RP Room Level Range: 6-10

Several groups of young adventurers have gone missing in an area of land otherwise considered safe and tame. This time, the Adventurer's Guild is hiring those of greater strength to find out what happened.

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Gathered in answer to a job posted by the Adventurer's Guild itself, you are all shown into one of the many briefing rooms. A human man in his late fifties is sat on one side of a desk fairly drowning in stacks of paper - job descriptions, reward papers, inventory lists and suchlike. He has set out chairs for the group, and once you are all here, gives a brief rundown of the problem at hand. "Thank you all for coming. I'll get right to the heart of the matter here; three groups of adventurers on different missions have gone missing in this area." He motions to a map on the wall; a quarter-mile area about a half-day's ride from the city, centred around a large hill. "It would seem something is either drawing them away or preying on them as they go past, but carefully since no bodies or remains have been found. Most of those taken have been relatively green, so I'm hoping you lot with a few years of swinging a sword under your belt will be able to take care of the matter. Any questions?"

Azog comes in, sits down, listens to the briefing. Simple and to the point. He looks over the place on the map, brow furrowing as he works out where that is and what he can recall of what the terrain is like. "It sounds pretty clear," he says after some thought.

Aenyn leans back in his chair after the briefing has been given and sighs, "They've probably been eaten. Would take care of the remains for the most part. What wasn't eaten is still in...whatever-it-is' lair." He pauses to nod, then states matter-of-factly, "There's *always* a lair."

"How many people lost are we talking?" is Sharna's question from where she sits, the girl leaning forward in her chair to peer at the map and the area upon it that's been marked as the target. Her lips are pursed slightly, in thought. No other questions are forthcoming - the task seems clears as day to her. There's a slightly bemused glance at Aenyn at his remark, but no other words.

"Maybe so. That's what you three are going out there to find," the guild officer replies wearily to Aenyn, unpinning the map and rolling it up, offering it out towards the group. "If you do find any survivors..." he begins, then trails off before beginning again, "We'll send an extra horse with you in the hope that there are some living to bring back. We're talking thirteen people so far - the last group of four were only reported as missing a few days ago."

Azog shrugs at Aenyn's remark. "We will find them, or their remains, and find what caused it," he says calmly. He'll take the map if no one else reaches for it, but he says, "One extra horse won't really be much for injured people unless it's pulling a wagon. A wagon might slow us, but we're not going that far. Perhaps if you can send a wagon after us, if we do find people that need to be taken back carefully?"

"He's got the right idea, I think." Sharna says, flicking the thumb of a hand to indicate the oruch. "If you could arrange to have someone bring out a wagon after us, that might do us quite a bit of good without losing out on speed. We might end up needing it." she agrees with Azog, giving their employer a businesslike little smile and nod. "It could stay outside the area we know is dangerous until we give the all-clear."

Aenyn doesn't take the map. He's never been good at reading them. Instead, he stands and goes to wait by the door for the questions to be finished. While waiting, he checks over his gear to make sure everything is where it's supposed to be and won't come loose during the ride.

"Alright. I'll have a wagon team ready in Edgewood Village, that's the closest point of civilisation only a mile or so away from the area you're going," the guild official nods, moving back to sit behind his desk. "Good hunting, adventurers."

Azog rises, takes his gleaming tower shield and shoulders it, and nods to the others. "If you can tell us a bit about the other parties, at least the most recent one," he says to the man. "How many, were they riding or walking, that will help us to identify their tracks if we find them in the area, we might be able to track them back to find where they were lost. Better than just wandering around the area."

"Two humans and two khazad were the last to go through the area without returning. On foot, if I recall rightly," the guildsman offers to Azog's question. "Make haste while the day is young, and return with good news," he then bids quietly. "I hope I will see you again tomorrow."

<OOC> Lash says, "Alrighty. Are we okay to fast forward?"

Azog nods gravely to the man, and will head off with the others. He owns a horse, and will ride, though he's really heavy with full armor and everything, so it's awkward if he needs to take a passenger. "We will return," he says to the man, echoing Sharna's sentiment.

<OOC> Azog is

<OOC> Sharna thumbs up.

<OOC> Aenyn two thumbs up to be slightly different.

<OOC> Lash says, "Also, am I alright to assume you might leave horses at the last village? It's about an hour on foot from there to the spot."

<OOC> Sharna says, "Unique, but still one of us! And yes, that's a fair assumption."

<OOC> Azog had intended to ride all the way, but can walk if the terrain is too rough for the horse.

<OOC> Lash says, "It would be more difficult mounted, yes."

<OOC> Aenyn says, "Fine by me. Aenyn prefers his own two feet. They go where he wants them. ;)"

<OOC> Azog is a high enough fighter level that I don't take a movement penalty

...Some hours later...

The journey to the hill shown on the map is fairly uneventful, the majority of roads well-used by the farmers and villagers who live hereabouts, and lacking in bandit or wild animal problems. Only when you leave the horses at the Edgewood hostelry and turn off out of the village towards the hill itself for the last hour on foot does the area become less populated, quickly turning from cultivated fields and tracks into dense forest. There are no obvious signs out here that come from something that might have worn boots - game trails, the odd spoor of wolf or deer, but nothing indicating a party came through recently. Then again, it has been a few days.

<OOC> Azog will be searching for tracks, of course.

<OOC> Lash says, "Sure thing, give me a roll."

<OOC> Lash says, "Survival, I believe?"

GAME: Azog rolls survival: (9)+12: 21

You paged Azog with 'Lots of local wildlife, very little in the way of civilised folk. There is however an indication of /dragging/ towards the steeper side of the hill. It has been covered in part, but your keen eyes spot that something was taken that way, towards a thick patch of briars.'

Azog slows the group a bit, not so much by the heavy plate armor he wears as he trudges through the hill-country, but by his meticulous inspection of the ground in his search for tracks or signs of the last party. "Two men and two dwarves," he mutters to himself. "And no sign. They would have come from this last village, yes?" he asks Sharna and Aenyn. "If they were coming this way, there's not really a better place to pause, is there?" As he searches, something catches his eye, and he leads the others, "This way." Pointing, he says, "Something was dragged this way, see here? Towards those briars."

Forest. It had to be a forest! Sharna's not particularly fond of the woodlands, especially not an area of it that might contain a predator.

At least the coin is good, and her horse is safe in the stables of the village not too far behind the group's back. Bow in one hand and small quiver of arrows ready at the hip, the mulblood's taken position behind Azog, judging his tracking skills well above her own as they trudge. She might be able to spot and point out an imprint or scuff on the hardened ground, but she has a hard time telling what they might have been left by, making her not as readily able to discard irrelevant things such as game trails or markings left by the winter ice.

Sharna peers down at the marks Azog points out, and then to the briars. "Best we've got so far. Let's check it out. Any idea what might've been doing the dragging?" she inquires of the oruch.

<OOC> Lash says, "Now that the dragging has been identified and pointed out, you can make a second survival check if you like."

<OOC> Lash says, "Anyone who has it."

GAME: Azog rolls survival: (18)+12: 30

Aenyn seems in better spirits once the horses are left behind and he's on his own two feet again. He carries on any conversation started with him during the journey, but doesn't start any conversations on his own. Once inside the dense forest, he stays near the shadows of the trees, though even when he passes through unshadowed areas, the shadows seem to cling to him briefly. He's not much of a tracker himself, so he just follows along, keeping an eye out for anything that might want to leap on his head and drag *him* away.

You paged Azog with 'It's difficult to make out with the dragging having gone over it, but there are one or two half-imprints left along the dragged area. Looks like a foot, but not wearing shoes. A bare foot, medium-sized humanoid, and not in good shape.'

You paged Azog with 'There are also a few spots of blood, mixed in with the mud.'

You paged Azog with 'Dried, and old enough to be consistant with 3 days of weather and such.'

Azog looks over to Sharna as she asks what might've been doing the dragging, and says, "It's hard to make out, since it was pulling its load, so the load smudged the marks. But it looks ... well, hard to tell, could be human or dwarf or orc or anything. Not as big as an ogre, but barefoot. Ah, and here's a bit of dried blood. Looks like they got into a fight before getting dragged off." To the others, he says, "This was three days ago, so ... about the right time. But it also means that they encountered ... whatever attacked them, pretty early in their journey. That would mean perhaps that it's aggressive and may come after us." At that, he hefts his gleaming tower shield, he'll advance onwards with it in place.

Aggressive. No kidding. Aenyn shakes his head and clings closer to the shadows, trying to remain unseen. And unheard as he softens his footfalls and is careful where he steps. Should the party be ambushed by something, or someone, then he can turn around and ambush *them* in return.

GAME: Aenyn rolls stealth+3: (6)+23+3: 32

"I've a feeling we'll find out soon enough." Sharna mutters. Her step's made a little more cautious, eyes and ears peeled for trouble. Azog and his enormous shield are, of course, allowed to lead the advance - she leaves a bit of space, just to make certain there is room for her to dive should the barefoot horror come leaping from the trees. Seeing - or, perhaps, NOT seeing Aenyn has her crouch slightly and lighten her own step. If there's an aggressive creature in these woods, bold enough to pray on armed and armored individuals, perhaps it should believe its job is easy today.

GAME: Sharna rolls Stealth: (15)+18: 33

While danger has apparently been present before, there is no sign of it being here now other than what the party brought with them. Nothing but the trees, the hill, the briars, birds tweeting in the distance, wind rustling through trees. At the moment, it would appear the only dangerous things in evidence are the trio themselves.

Azog is pretty much the opposite of Aenyn and Sharna, he's made to be seen. Seven feet tall, gleaming shield, plate armor that creaks and clanks. It may seem like he's tracking alone, but that's fine with him, he moves forwards, pushing through the briars by brute force where necessary. His dully glowing bastard sword will come out if he needs to hack his way through underbrush. He loses sight of his own party members at times, the noise of his passage and the field of view allowed by his helm combine to limit his senses.

You paged Azog with 'How bright is the sword? Light spell?'

Hacking and slashing and oruchdozing through the briars is not as difficult as it might first appear; while they look thick and thorny, they have been carefully separated into two curtains of thorns, and so once Azog pushes through the first bit, they part to allow entrance to what looks like a tunnel. A few steps lead downwards, the walls and floor too smooth to have been cut out by a river or similar. There is no light in evidence down here other than the gloomy daylight following Azog in, augmented by the faint glow of his sword.

Azog pages: Like candlelight. Kerbasy enchanted it, and he described it as 'corpselight', which I'm not sure exactly what it is. But maybe 5' of useful illumination.

Long distance to Azog: Lash nod.

You paged Azog with 'There is more dried blood here. Clearly the cleanup act only went as far as the briars, since there is a clear dragging trail of it once past the steps.'

From afar, Azog of course has Darkvision, so the light's not actually necessary, unless there's things to read. ;) Aha.

<OOC> Lash says, "The entrance is a one-person-at-a-time entrance. Assuming Azog is first, who is second and third?"

"What is it? What did you find?" Sharna hisses from behind Azog as he more or less disappears into the briars, proving she's still there and watching his back. She pauses in her trek, awaiting an answer and peering about the forest.

Stupid forests. The only thing that could possibly make it worse are spiders.

Well, no, not the only thing, not by far. But it would certainly make it worse.

<OOC> Aenyn says, "I can bring up the rear unless someone else wants it."

<OOC> Sharna is fine being second. "Once the fact the place is manufactured sinks in, I'll need to go into trap detection mode anyway. Assuming Azog isn't blocking my view, in which case I'll go first to be able to do it."

Aenyn comes in behind everyone else, watching to make sure nothing is coming up behind them. He frowns a bit at the tunnel and whispers to those ahead of him, "This looks a bit ominous. Also looks like a place someone wouldn't want strangers wandering into unmolested..."

<OOC> Lash says, "Could I get a wisdom check please? You can add survival if you have it."

Azog hrms thoughtfully as he pushes through to the hidden passage. "Ah, yeah, this is definitely the place," he says, pointing out the now-clear dragging trail. "They didn't think this would be found, so didn't bother to scrub the trail." He peers into the darkness, well past the small, dim circle of illumination offered by his sword. He calls back to Sharna, "There's a passage in through here, you both ought to come in. But bring light if you need it." He moves forwards far enough that the others can follow him in. He nods grimly at Aenyn's comment. "This is not the lair of a monster who comes out to feed. We are in the land of the enemy." He grunts. "So let us strike at their hearts."

GAME: Azog rolls survival: (19)+12: 31

GAME: Aenyn rolls wisdom: (4)+1: 5

Once through the entrance, the tunnel opens out a little bit, to about eight feet wide. There is a left turn immediately once you are down the steps, leading forward 35' before turning off to the right. There is still no light down here, though there are empty sconces on the wall indicating where torches might have burned once upon a time. The stonework is well-made, carved out rather than lined with masonry, and the air down here is stale.

GAME: Sharna rolls Wisdom: (8)+1: 9

You paged Azog with 'There is a smell. A decidedly unpleasent smell, but very faint. Formaldehyde.'

Azog pages: Ahhhhh. Yuck.

Once the answer is given, Sharna slips through the briars. Agile she might be, but there's still some cursing and yanking of her cloak back from the vibrant plantlife.

Muttering and shaking thorns from the cloak, the mulblood peers into the gloom with narrowed - squinted, actually - eyes. "Can't see very well." she admits. Her skin might be dark, but her soul's untained - no cursed Taara's gift of sight in the dark for this one.

"The sword helps a little. Are we sure we want something stronger? It'll probably give us away." she whispers, expecting the tunnel to echo awfully. A gloved hand runs lightly down the wall, noting that it looks a bit too regular, too smooth to have been carved by elements, and her brows furrow in thought beneath the hood.

"I'll keep an eye out for things that keep unwanted visitors out." she promises.

<OOC> Lash says, "Sharna and/or Aenyn and/or Azog, if you're checking for traps, toss me a roll after each pose in which the party moves forward."

Aenyn frowns a bit as the tunnel gets darker. His elven blood usually helps him in the dark, but without a proper lightsource anywhere nearby, he can't really see much of anything. "I don't have anything for light," he whispers, "Unless you count flash powder, but that only lasts for a moment." He runs a hand along one wall as they move, "Think the Khazad made this tunnel? They're usually pretty good at this sort of thing."

<OOC> Lash says, "If anyone has knowledge/engineering, you are welcome to take a punt :)"

Azog shrugs at Sharna's question about stronger light. "I can see well enough, myself. But you may find it hard going." He sniffs at the air as we move into this place, the glow of his blade reflecting from his mithral shield, shedding light ahead of him across the floor, just barely far enough to keep from stepping in anything. "What is that smell?" he wonders. "Like what you use here in the city to prepare bodies to be buried." His tribe doesn't use formaldehyde, they just bury their dead and let the earth reclaim them. He nods about traps. "This place has been long in the making, I think, and that implies well-prepared." To Aenyn, he says, "If you have a moment, I've got a lantern in my pack, I can get it out."

A moment's pondering has Sharna reach into her pack. The alchemical wonder that is the sunrod is drawn forth, and the mulblood regards it for a moment. "I figure it won't do us any good at all if we're half-blind." she notes hushedly to her companions. A moment is given for objections and better ideas - and then she strikes it upon the wall. Light floods the place, bright and strong, as the barrier within shatters and chemicals in the translucent tube meet. Securing it in her belt, Sharna nods at Azog, and steps lightly forward, keeping her eyes peeled for surprises the resident - current or previous - might have left to... discourage... visitation.

<OOC> Sharna will be right back and use the sunrod and roll Perception then.

GAME: Azog rolls perception: (7)+10: 17

<OOC> Aenyn says, "I have Knowledge/*Dungeon*eering, if that helps? ;)"

<OOC> Lash says, "It would if the place were natural caves, but alas."

<OOC> Lash says, "Though.. hmm."

<OOC> Lash says, "Sure. Make a check at -10."

GAME: Aenyn rolls knowledge/dungeoneering-10: (20)+6+-10: 16

<OOC> Lash says, "Aha."

<OOC> Aenyn misspelled it the first time.

You paged Aenyn with 'It isn't /exactly/ the same, but it's similar to what you might find in the wake of some supernatural digging animal, then smoothed out. Only, the walls are too straight to have been dug by chance.'

GAME: Sharna rolls Perception: (9)+18: 27

GAME: Sharna used a Sunrod.

You paged Sharna with 'No traps in evidence so far.'

With more light, Aenyn examines the walls a bit closer. He hmms softly and whispers, "It's almost like someone smoothed out a tunnel dug by some magical digging creature, but it's too straight to have been by chance." He turns his attention ahead now, trying to keep an eye out for any traps that the others may miss as best he can from the back of the group.

GAME: Aenyn rolls perception: (3)+12: 15

You paged Aenyn with 'No traps in evidence so far.'

<OOC> Aenyn says, "+3 for purposes of trap detection."

<OOC> Azog says, "Ah, mine is +1 for traps, so 18. Just one splash level of rogue."

<OOC> Lash says, "Is Sharna now taking point?"

<OOC> Sharna says, "If it's necessary for trap-looksie purposes, I will most happily take point."

<OOC> Lash nods. Azog and his shield are quite broad and the tunnel only 8' wide, so you would need to be in front to trapsearch properly.

<OOC> Sharna says, "Azog's pretty wide, and we can't stand side-to-side far as I gather, so I--"

<OOC> Azog isn't that fat. :(

<OOC> Lash says, "Broad, strong Oruch shoulders!"

<OOC> Sharna says, "Yep. I'll take point happily, then. And leave a small bit of gap so if I take a nosedive into a spiked pit, Azog doesn't follow me in. XD"

<OOC> Azog will leave room to one side, so there's room if she needs to squeeze back behind me, she can.

<OOC> Lash nod.

Slinking past Azog for lack of visibility, Sharna crouches, peering at the tunnel before them with a critical eye.

"Looks clear to me so far." the mulblood relays after a moment's inspection - at least the section they can see. With the light and Azog's armor, whoever might be waiting won't have any doubts they HAVE visitors, but she still keeps her voice hushed. They might know someone's coming, but they might not deduce how many until it is too late. With those words, she steps forwards - moving to the bend and drawing one of her many daggers, using the polished blade as if it were a tiny mirror to peer around the corner.

Azog blinks at the sudden light, eyes open, but staring towards the floor until his eyes adjust. Now that the inside is brightly lit, he'll begin forwards. But Sharna seems to have a better eye for detail, and he's wary of traps as well, so he lets her go past him, leaving room in case she needs to dart back. He'll follow her forwards, down the passageway, leaving a bit of space behind her so his clumping and the clank of armor won't necessarily give her away.

You paged Sharna with 'Goes on for about another 20' before turning again to the right. No sign of traps or inhabitants.'

Aenyn continues to bring up the rear. It's an odd place for him since most groups he's with stick him out in front for the same reason Sharna's there now. He gives up trying to peek around Azog's shield to help out in front, so he just keeps an eye out to make sure nothing's coming up from behind. And also making sure he remains as stealthy as possible to keep anyone else nearby from guessing their numbers.

GAME: Aenyn rolls stealth+3: (5)+23+3: 31

Shouldering the bow and lifting a hand, Sharna performs a bit of mimicry. A sharp turn to the right is indicated with an open palm, and then two fingers are lifted. Along again she moves, wary of things underfoot and abovehead, making sure the stonework is uniform - a deviation might indicate pressure plates, hidden blades or gods only know what else. Assuming there's no telltale creaks of switches and the word 'Oops' needn't be used yet, the second corner is given the same treatment as the first.

GAME: Sharna rolls Perception: (10)+18: 28

<OOC> Sharna says, "(You said roll Perception whenever we're moving, so!)"

GAME: Azog rolls perception: (16)+10: 26

The blood trail continues on in this direction, and Sharna disappears around the corner after indicating 20' and another turn, to do the same look-see as she did before.

You paged Sharna with 'Another 20' and turn right, no traps.'

Azog follows, still behind Sharna until she gives the clear signal, then tromping up behind as she moves forward again. The tromping isn't really an option, when three hundred pounds of oruch in 50 pounds of steel plate armor moves, there is no room for doubt that it has moved. Though for the moment, he has nothing to say, so keeps his mouth shut. Hopefully that will help Sharna concentrate on what may befall us.

Frowning in mild frustration, the free hand is lifted, and another right-turn is mimicked. Sharna walks lightly, but there's no real point in being stealthy - with a sunrod at her belt, she is, quite literally, a beacon. With the reassuring clanking at her back, she makes a second turn and slows again to inspect the newly-revealed stretch of tunnel beyond. Needless to say, the pace is not the best - the stop-go-stop routine may begin to grate soon. All in a day's work, however.

GAME: Sharna rolls Perception: (6)+18: 24

GAME: Azog rolls perception: (19)+10: 29

Aenyn follows along as well, keeping his eye on the path the party has already travelled. And an ear, too, as best he can with the clanking armor in front of him anyway. It certainly helps him conceal his own footsteps at least. Not a word is spoken as he lets Sharna concentrate.

GAME: Aenyn rolls perception: (14)+12: 26

You paged Sharna with '2' and then a T-junction. To the right, a short passage of 10' ending in a stone bench with what looks like a dead body slumped on it, to the left about 20' before it turns left again.'

You paged Sharna with 'The blood trail continues left. The dead body on the right has bare feet thickly caked in mud, and stacks of branches and leaves piled next to it.'

Sharna peers beyond, snowy brows remaining furrowed. A hand lifts, and she goes through a series of gestures. "Can you understand?", the unsaid words hidden in those weird little twists, shapes and motions ask of Azog. Of course, to someone not familiar with the silent language, she might appear to be pantomiming something completely nonsensical just as much as actually relaying information. <handspeech>

Azog is fine with the stop-and-go nature of the advance. It's better than go-and-fall-in-pit or go-and-get-impaled. While he's eager for action, that feeling is tempered by caution. Go-and-get-ambushed isn't great, either, and this party is smaller than many of the Explorers' Guild missions he's been on. Sharna's gesticulations draw his attentions, and he moves forwards quickly. "You've got a spider on your hand?" he asks. "Just smash it against a wall before it can bite and you won't get much poison," he suggests.

Quiet as a mouse, Aenyn trudges along behind the others. He watches Sharna's hand gestures quizzically, but when Azog speaks a look of realization crosses his features. Just a spider. Nothing to worry about. Especially since it's obviously not big enough for him to see. He goes back to minding the party's rear.

If she has a spider on her hand, it's now on her face, for that is where the hand goes as Sharna makes a motion that is a very clear sign of mild frustration. "There's an intersection." she hisses in the tongue of trade after retreating to her comrades to be able to communicate. "On one side, there looks to be a corpse. No shoes, mud on feet, with forest debris around it. Blood goes the other way."

<OOC> Lash says, "Don't wait on me until you move. :)"

<OOC> Sharna says, "Yep. Just waiting to see if the guys want to bother with the might-be-corpse at all before twinkletoes-ing onwards."

Azog is shocked for a moment as Sharna squashes the spider on her face. As an act of bravado, that's quite impressive. Azog was not expecting that. Realization that there is, perhaps, no spider dawns as Sharna explains what's ahead. Though now that he's up there ... he may as well take a look. "Is that the last fellow that got dragged in?" he wonders. Perhaps they leave bodies here so they don't stink up the place while they're waiting to embalm them? Or wait, maybe zombies dragged the other adventurers in? Yes, that makes sense. But this ... is it a zombie, or just a victim?"

"Or a trap." Sharna says, and then turns about and creeps forwards again, intent on moving to the intersection and beyond. Eyes and ears are kept peeled for traps - more the kind that cut you off at the knees or have you shot full of darts, but ambush is not immediatelly ruled out either. Best to make certain the path is clear before any seeking of clues begins.

You paged Azog with 'As described by the mulblood, there is an intersection. It turns left, there is about 2' of wall, and then the T-junction. To the right, about 10' before it ends at a wall with a stone bench, the corpse described is slumped on this with piles of branches and leaves about it. To the left, 20' before another turn left.'

<OOC> Lash says, "Going right towards the corpse or left towards the next bend, Sharna?"

<OOC> Azog says, "Is the body human or dwarf? Or something else?"

Aenyn moves forward with Azog to take a look at the corpse. He finally breaks his silence as he whispers, "We should check to see if that's one of the missing guildmembers." Sharna's comment triggers a thought in his head and he promptly begins to check if the corpse itself is trapped.

<OOC> Lash says, "Getting up close and personal with it?"

GAME: Aenyn rolls perception+3: (11)+12+3: 26

<OOC> Aenyn is. ;)

<OOC> Lash says, "It appears to be a mismatch of many things. No two limbs come from the same body - clearly it is a flesh construct of some kind, although just as clearly it is either not working properly, or not aggressive."

<OOC> Lash says, "It does not react to you guys at all."

<OOC> Lash says, "And is not trapped."

<OOC> Lash says, "Anyone who has k/arcana may roll."

<OOC> Sharna is not magically knowledgeable. :(

<OOC> Azog says, "Nor I."

Azog steps aside to let Aenyn check over the corpse. He gives it a once-over, but is not so skilled in the forensic stuff. He was just hoping to see that it was one of the people who they'd been sent to find. Seeing the state of the body draws a heavy frown, and says, "Whatever is going on here, it must be stopped."

You paged Sharna with 'Going left, to the next bend?'

Aenyn shakes his head in disgust over the body as he checks it for traps. Finding none, he stands and gets ready to move on with the others. "I don't like this at all," he murmurs to the others.

Azog nods to what Sharna says about moving on. He gives her a bit of time to move on and check things out before heading that way, himself. Aenyn gets a grunt of agreement. "Nor do I." Shield forward, he moves on slowly, giving Sharna time to make sure the way is safe, though he's watching his way just the same.

"Definitely some traps here. Someone's already sprung one." Sharna whispers back to her companions. She allows the two a moment to catch up before moving onwards, her steps more wary now. A hand is lifted, finger pointing at what seems to be a scythe blade hanging down in the middle of the corridor to explain where she got the clue. "I'm pretty sure it would need to be reset manually to work again, but..." Her voice trails off. Where there's one, there's usually more, and Sharna moves onwards with eyes peeled.

You paged Sharna with 'Lurking by the tripped scythe trap, you can see three routes from here. One dead ahead, goes for 25' before turning right. Immediately after your intersection there is a turning right, going 20' before turning right again. On that same tunnel, there is also a branch left about 5' in.'

You paged Sharna with 'The blood leads straight ahead.'

Aenyn follows after the others, still keeping eye on the path behind them, especially now that there's a potentially "active" corpse back there. Once again, he goes into "stealth mode", trying to keep his presence unknown to anyone else in the tunnels.

GAME: Aenyn rolls stealth+3: (4)+23+3: 30

"Trail goes straight on, but there's other branches." Sharna whispers back. Her chosen path seems to be following the blood - whoever passed through with their burden likely knew where they were going. Her going is very, very slow, as she must inspect floor, walls and ceiling for dangers. An enormous scythe could do quite some damage, after all.

<OOC> Sharna creeps on forwards, following blood and trap-radarin'.

GAME: Sharna rolls Perception: (20)+18: 38

You collectively pass by a branch to the right, which has other branches off it, heading straight forward.

Azog peers at the scythe trap as he goes by in turn. He'll try to keep clear from the path of the blade, though he does wonder, "How long do you think it's been since it was triggered?" He engages lack-of-stealth mode, as it were. Tromptromptromp. It's not that he's stomping along. But 350 lbs of oruch in plate armor is not a subtle thing.

You paged Sharna with 'Immediately after the branch right, there is a left. The tunnel also turns left after that branch. There is also something peculiar on the floor by the branch. A pile of teeth, with a dead flower sticking up out of them.'

You paged Sharna with 'Also, /years/ since the scythe was tripped.'

You paged Sharna with 'The blood goes to the end, and then turns left at the bend, not the branch.'

Aenyn is just following along quietly at this point. He keeps an eye out behind, but otherwise he's just a follower. Where the others go, he goes.

"It's been a long time. Probably years." Sharna says to Azog before darting forward to inspect the path. Many branches lead off, but her interest is on the one where the blood leads - though she stops at one, peering with an expression of discomfort at a neat pile of... something... on the floor nearby it.

"Teeth." she tells Azog as he approaches. Clearly, she's a little weirded out by the neatly stacked pile of unusually filthered remains. "There's a dead flower sticking out of the pile." Just saying it makes her twitch.

Stopping for a moment to order her thoughts and review her mental map - it wouldn't do to get lost - Sharna keeps going where the crimson trail leads.

<OOC> Sharna will not be explicitly posing looking for traps anymore - I'll be looking for them for as long as nothing is stopping me from doing so (like falling in one, or combat, or...)

<OOC> Lash nods.

Azog grunts about the age of the trap. "Perhaps whoever's here now are not the original builders, then," muses the oruch. He moves forward warily as Sharna advances, peering quizically at the pile of teeth. "Some kind of burial custom? Or part of the zombie ritual?"

<OOC> Lash says, "Sharna, you are now peeking around the bend?"

<OOC> Lash says, "(The teeth are not trapped. Nor is the dead flower.)"

<OOC> Lash says, "Also, perception please everyone."

GAME: Azog rolls perception: (18)+10: 28

GAME: Aenyn rolls perception: (15)+12: 27

<OOC> Lash says, "Sharna, have +2 for being in front of the plate mail."

<OOC> Sharna says, "Yus. I'm holding the dagger and using it as a mirror."

GAME: Sharna rolls Perception: (4)+18: 22

<OOC> Sharna says, "+4 vs traps, and I guess +2 for DM kindness. XD"

You paged Sharna with 'THERE IS MOVEMENT!!'

You paged Sharna with 'About 25' of tunnel, before it bends left. You can see one - no, two figures. Clearly constructs similar to the first, but these are a) stood upright and b) clearly more beefy. They do not appear to have responded to the presence of light.'

You paged Sharna with 'They are stood in the last 10' of tunnel before the bend.'

Crouching down as if to make her figure smaller and mute the light by instinct, Sharna holds up a hand to signal a halt. Her hand tightens around the handle of the dagger she's been using as a mirror, and for a moment she does not speak.

"More of those... zombie things." she hisses back to the oruch and other elfkin. "Two. They're just... standing there." she adds after a moment, as evidenced by the fact a stitched-together fist isn't flying at her face. Yet.

<OOC> Sharna says, "I'm actually going to step around the bend, carefully, and check the newly-revealed tunnel, thingies and all, for traps if they don't come charging right at me."

<OOC> Sharna says, "Unless Azog shoulders past me and goes all RAAAAAAAUGH BLOOD AND HONOR. XD"

<OOC> Azog laughs, will give you time to check for traps

<OOC> Lash says, "Alright my doves. Let's have some initiative."

GAME: You roll initiative for C-Golem1: Roll: 13 + Bonus: 1 = Total: 14

GAME: Azog rolls initiative: Roll: 11 + Bonus: 2 = Total: 13

GAME: You roll initiative for C-Golem2: Roll: 13 + Bonus: 1 = Total: 14

GAME: Sharna rolls initiative: Roll: 13 + Bonus: 6 = Total: 19

GAME: Aenyn rolls initiative: Roll: 17 + Bonus: 4 = Total: 21

<OOC> Lash says, "Okedoke, let me drop a short description for you, since I assume you can now all see."

You stand in a tunnel roughly 8' wide, which goes on for about 25' before bending to the left. Immediately by the bend stand two stitched-together corpse-like constructions, which have clearly now noticed you even if they didn't react to the presence of light. Neither are armed, but they both have beefy body-parts. Hard hitters, perhaps.

<OOC> Lash says, "Aenyn!"

<OOC> Aenyn says, "I will attempt to shoot one in the face with my shortbow. ;)"

<OOC> Aenyn says, "Or any other convenient body part."

<OOC> Lash says, "Sure thing."

GAME: Aenyn rolls weapon2: (15)+8: 23

<OOC> Lash says, "Hit!"

GAME: Aenyn rolls 1d6: (1): 1

<OOC> Lash says, "It strikes the thing, but clatters off."

<OOC> Lash says, "Sharna!"

<OOC> Azog says, "Do they take sneak damage?"

<OOC> Aenyn says, "Constructs and/or undead usually don't."

<OOC> Lash says, "It is a construct. I cannot see anything on the construct trait list that says it doesn't, but.."

<OOC> Lash says, "We'll go with yes."

<OOC> Aenyn says, "Should I roll my sneak attack dice then?"

<OOC> Lash says, "Can you sneak at range?"

<OOC> Lash reads. Yes, yes you can.

<OOC> Lash says, "Sure thing."

<OOC> Aenyn says, "Within 30' I think it is."

GAME: Aenyn rolls 3d6: (14): 14

<OOC> Aenyn says, "Plus the 1 from earlier makes 15."

<OOC> Lash says, "It hits, it sticks! But not as deeply as you might have hoped."

<OOC> Lash says, "Sharna!"

<OOC> Sharna says, "I'm actually going to give a quick trap sweep regardless."

<OOC> Lash says, "Sure, that will be your move-equiv."

With the mention of the walking corpse things ahead, Aenyn readies his shortbow. He's going to get as much damage done to them as he can before they get close enough to hit him or bite him or whatever it is they do. He nocks an arrow, takes aim and lets fly. The arrow sticks into one of the corpse things, but it's hard to tell if it really did anything or not.

<OOC> Sharna says, "I'll react based on what I see or don't see, then, for the standard."

GAME: Sharna rolls Perception+4: (13)+18+4: 35

<OOC> Lash says, "No traps."

<OOC> Sharna says, "I'll call an all-clear, drop my dagger where I stand (free), then move behind Azog and draw both my shortswords (TWF+move in place of standard)."

<OOC> Lash says, "Sure."

<OOC> Lash says, "Let me just check. Azog is out in the corridor, and the two rogues are behind him?"

<OOC> Azog says, "Yes."

<OOC> Lash says, "The first golem, the one that got hit, is going to charge and slam Azog."

GAME: Lash rolls 1d20+7+2: (4)+7+2: 13

<OOC> Lash says, "..or at least, try to."

Sharna's eyes dart over the corridor before them, looking everywhere BUT the obvious foes.

"No sign of traps." Sharna informs Azog even as she moves behind the protection of his enormous shield, her dagger clattering, abandoned, on the floor as she replaces it with her trusty twin blades. Bending her knees, she waits for an opportune moment.

<OOC> Lash says, "The second one is going to move backwards, out of sight around the bend."

<OOC> Lash says, "Unnusual behaviour for a construct."

<OOC> Lash says, "Azog."

<OOC> Azog says, "Uh. I suppose I'll unload a full attack on it."

<OOC> Lash says, "Since it's standing right there, and all."

<OOC> Lash says, "Go for it."

GAME: Azog rolls 1d20+15: (13)+15: 28

GAME: Azog rolls 1d20+10: (1)+10: 11

<OOC> Lash says, "Yes, and no."

GAME: Azog rolls 1d10+10: (2)+10: 12

<OOC> Lash says, "It is quite badly hurt. Please everybody make a fortitude save."

GAME: Azog rolls fortitude: (3)+8: 11

GAME: Sharna rolls Fortitude: (17)+8: 25

GAME: Aenyn rolls fortitude: (1)+5: 6

<OOC> Lash says, "Sharna, you are fine."

Azog cooly brings his shield up as the one golem rushes him, deflecting its attack with a peremtory swat of the massive mithral shield. He steps into the attack, shield sliding aside so he can thrust with his sword, running the blade into the creature and ... hurting it isn't quite the right word, but it seems damaged at least. He swings again, but the sight of the other running away confuses him, and the distraction spoils his attack.

<OOC> Lash says, "Aenyn and Azog, you are "experiencing stomach distress" as it so tactfully describes it, as when Azog's sword cuts into the flesh, it releases a gout of stench."

<OOC> Lash says, "For the next round, a single move action only."

<OOC> Lash says, "Top of the round, Aenyn!"

<OOC> Aenyn says, "As my single move action, I suppose I will drop my bow (free), then move into a flanking position while I draw my shortsword."

<OOC> Lash says, "It will get AoO."

<OOC> Aenyn says, "Can I tumble?"

<OOC> Lash says, "Not while trying to avoid pooping."

<OOC> Aenyn says, "Then ignore the moving. Will just drop bow and draw sword. ;)"

<OOC> Lash says, "Or.. hm. I suppose you could try, with a penalty."

<OOC> Lash says, "You could try it at -5 if you like."

GAME: Aenyn rolls acrobatics-5: (5)+18+-5: 18

<OOC> Lash says, "Success!"

<OOC> Lash says, "Aenyn is in flanking position. Sharna!"

<OOC> Sharna says, "Is there room in melee with it at all?"

<OOC> Lash says, "Not really."

<OOC> Lash says, "You could tumble past and hunt for the other one? Or try shooting."

By all the gods and goddesses, even the evil ones (ESPECIALLY the evil ones), what is that stench?! Aenyn makes gagging noises behind Azog as the stench reaches his nose. He manages to not vomit all over the Oruch's backside, though he does drop his bow. He steps around Azog's big shield and dives underneath the swinging arm of the golem, landing in a roll. As he returns to his feet, his shortsword is in his hand. He grins, despite still turning a shade of green to make any gobber proud, "So glad I got these new boots..."

<OOC> Sharna says, "I can't switch weapons fast enough to shoot it, and Sharna knows she's not terribly good at killing a foe that can actually defend itself so the other one isn't a good option either. I delay."

<OOC> Lash says, "Delaying until?"

<OOC> Sharna says, "Probably until there's an opening or a change in the fight that has me reconsider."

<OOC> Lash nods.

<OOC> Azog says, "I think if you delay, you don't have to specify?"

<OOC> Sharna says, "You do not, but it's an online medium."

<OOC> Lash says, "In PF, does delaying change your init order permanently?"

<OOC> Lash says, "Or just for that round?"

<OOC> Sharna says, "It does, to when you stop the delay."

<OOC> Lash nods.

<OOC> Lash says, "Golem 1 is going to try and hit Azog again, because it does not understand the idea of a juggernaut."

<OOC> Azog says, "Ah, yeah. And yeah, wherever you drop in, that's where you are now."

GAME: Lash rolls 1d20+7: (9)+7: 16

<OOC> Lash says, "Golem 2 is going to come back around the corner and throw a heavy piece of masonry at Aenyn."

GAME: Lash rolls 1d20+3: (3)+3: 6

<OOC> Lash says, "Faaaaaaail. Sharna, stepping in?"

<OOC> Sharna says, "Mmm, no, not yet. Gonna see what Azog does first."

The first golem, working up quite the stench, continues to try and wail on Azog. Try being the operative word, since the meaty fists do little but make noise as they beat on his armor. Meanwhile the second one returns, a chunk of stone in hand, which it heaves in Aenyn's direction, though it doesn't go even half so far.

<OOC> Lash says, "Azog"

<OOC> Azog says, "Vital Strike on the one in front of me."

<OOC> Azog says, "What's my to-hit penalty for barfing?"

<OOC> Lash says, "You're on a move-only this round."

<OOC> Azog says, "Move only or standard only?"

<OOC> Lash says, "Move only."

<OOC> Azog misunderstood. Ah. Hrm.

<OOC> Azog says, "I don't think there's anything I -can- do. I'll stand there and try to not get hurt too badly."

Sharna, for her part, tests the room around the tunnel and finds it entirely inadequate for fighting. With swords in hand already, she lets loose a volatile curse in Sildanyari (who knew elves could be so vulgar) and... waits.

<OOC> Lash says, "Sure thing. Sharna."

<OOC> Lash says, "Doing nothing?"

<OOC> Sharna says, "You could move and let me shank it. XD"

<OOC> Azog will do that.

<OOC> Azog says, "Actually, I'll push past it, making it waste an AoO, and then she'll have flanking."

<OOC> Lash says, "Aenyn is behind it, presntly."

<OOC> Lash says, "I'm fine with you moving into that space, but only one of you will be able to stay there."

<OOC> Lash says, "Either you moving past him, or him being pushed back by you."

<OOC> Azog says, "How about I push past both, then? That'll leave Sharna-badguy-Aenyn-badguy-Azog"

<OOC> Lash says, "Sure."

GAME: Lash rolls 1d20+7: (20)+7: 27

<OOC> Azog says, "If that wasn't a 20, it would have missed. ;)"

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

<OOC> Lash says, "No confirm."

GAME: Lash rolls 1d8+3: (5)+3: 8

<OOC> Lash says, "Please make a fort check, Azog."

GAME: Azog rolls fortitude: (5)+8: 13

<OOC> Lash says, "Onoes."

<OOC> Azog says, "Does that halt my move?"

<OOC> Lash says, "You begin to feel feverish. No numeric effect yet."

<OOC> Lash says, "Sharna."

<OOC> Sharna says, "Am I within 5 ft of the constuct now that Azog's displayed awesomeness and let me have his seat? :)"

<OOC> Lash says, "You can 5-step, yes."

<OOC> Sharna says, "I 5' step into the flanking position and unload a TWF full attack, then."

<OOC> Lash says, "Sure. What weapon?"

<OOC> Lash says, "(s)"

<OOC> Sharna says, "They're both shortswords, both magical (MH is a +2, OH is a +1)."

<OOC> Sharna says, "So Piercing, Magic."

<OOC> Lash nods.

GAME: Sharna rolls 1d20+6+6+1+2-2+2: (12)+6+6+1+2+-2+2: 27

GAME: Sharna rolls 1d20+6+6+1+2-2+2-5: (9)+6+6+1+2+-2+2+-5: 19

GAME: Sharna rolls 1d20+6+6+1+1-2+2: (2)+6+6+1+1+-2+2: 16

GAME: Sharna rolls 1d20+6+6+1+1-2+2-5: (19)+6+6+1+1+-2+2+-5: 28

<OOC> Sharna says, "Last is a threat to boot."

<OOC> Lash says, "Three hits."

<OOC> Lash says, "Confirm crit?"

GAME: Sharna rolls 1d20+6+6+1+1-2+2-5: (15)+6+6+1+1+-2+2+-5: 24

<OOC> Lash says, "Two hits and a crit."

Azog staggers as the stench of the creatures innards spilling out fills the air, and it's all he can do to keep lunch down as he fights off the enemy. "Gah," he grunts unintelligably. Still, the sooner it's done with, the sooner he's out of it, but he really can't breathe or swing a sword as sick as he is. Aenyn went past already, but Sharna's behind him, so he lowers his shield and drives through the stench, letting it beat on his sheld as he shifts position. Unfortunately, his heaving gut chooses the wrong time to clench, and he freezes long enough for the creature to scrape at him, adding insult to injury as he staggers through the melee.

<OOC> Sharna says, "So MH hit, MH hit, OH crit. Okay..."

GAME: Sharna rolls 1d6+3+5d6: (3)+3+(14): 20

GAME: Sharna rolls 1d6+3+5d6: (1)+3+(15): 19

GAME: Sharna rolls 2d6+2+5d6: (5)+2+(27): 34

<OOC> Lash says, "Pose it :)"

<OOC> Sharna says, "It's still up, yes? For sake of pose?"

<OOC> Aenyn says, "Also, I think I was skipped. :/"

<OOC> Sharna says, "Naw, I delayed."

<OOC> Aenyn says, "Oh! Okay. Good. :)"

<OOC> Sharna says, "This next round it'll be you, golems, Azog, me."

<OOC> Lash says, "No, it's down."

Sharna's expression immediatelly brightens as the oruch warrior pushes heroically forward, leaving an opening. Giving Aenyn a grin - white teeth under dark skin - she eagerly steps into the spot vacated by Azog and launches into an almost dance-like series of spins. Blades flash as the cloak snaps about her, brief glimmers of steel.

The jabs are devastating. The construct's thick, protective shell avails it not - the blades might not be sinking deep, but when they do connect, they hit the sensitive spots on the thing. Stitching is ripped with jerking motions of the shortswords, and soon enough the golem cannot keep itself together and collapses in a heap of twitching, useless limbs.

As Sharna opens up her veritable flurry of slashing and stabbing strikes, the golem seems to come apart at the seams, pieces falling off. It has the grace to look briefly surprised, before it crumbles into disparate body parts. Immobile body parts, at that.

<OOC> Lash says, "Top of the round, Aenyn."

<OOC> Aenyn says, "Did Azog make it to the other golem?"

<OOC> Lash says, "No, though he could charge."

<OOC> Aenyn says, "Then I will move to retrieve my bow and wait for the other golem to become engaged."

<OOC> Lash says, "okedoke,."

<OOC> Lash says, "Golem 2, currently unharmed, is going to try and charge/slam Azog. Because clearly, it did not learn from the mistakes of its buddy."

<OOC> Lash says, "Aenyn, can you AoO with a bow?"

GAME: Lash rolls 1d20+7+2: (20)+7+2: 29

GAME: Lash rolls 1d20+7+2: (13)+7+2: 22

<OOC> Lash says, "One hit only."

Aenyn's jaw actually drops as the golem in front of him literally falls apart from Sharna's onslaught. He clears his throat and moves back to where he dropped his bow. "That takes care of that one, I guess," he murmurs as he bends down to pick up the bow and put it away on his back.

GAME: Lash rolls 1d8+7: (1)+7: 8

<OOC> Lash says, "Azog, fort again please."

<OOC> Aenyn says, "Nope. I still have my sword in hand, but I don't think he passed near where I moved to."

GAME: Azog rolls fortitude: (9)+8: 17

<OOC> Lash says, "You are fine. Still feeling poorly from the first time, but no worse off."

<OOC> Azog objects to all these 20's, btw. :(

<OOC> Lash can only hit you with a 20, it seems!

<OOC> Lash says, "Azog!"

<OOC> Azog says, "Still move actions only?"

<OOC> Lash says, "Nope"

<OOC> Lash says, "That was only one round."

<OOC> Azog says, "Oh. Well, vital strike, then."

<OOC> Lash says, "Do it :)"

<OOC> Azog says, "Do I have a penalty to hit from nauseated?"

<OOC> Lash says, "Nope."

<OOC> Azog says, "Or anything else? Ah, cool."

GAME: Azog rolls 1d20+15: (16)+15: 31

<OOC> Lash says, "Unsurprisingly, a hit!"

GAME: Azog rolls 2d10+10: (10)+10: 20

<OOC> Lash says, "Yep."

<OOC> Azog says, "Oh, d'oh. I'm not limited to standard actions, I should have just done a full attack. Ah well. I've been wanting to use that feat since I got it several levels ago. ;)"

<OOC> Lash says, "20 points."

<OOC> Lash says, "All good."

<OOC> Lash says, "Sharna!"

<OOC> Sharna says, "Is distance short enough to both (try) Acrobatics past it and stab it inna back flanking with Azog like a proper Rogue?"

<OOC> Lash says, "Yes, though again you'll be cohabiting with Aenyn, so one of you will need to move out of that square."

Azog is at least out of the worst of the stench, and one of the rotten creatures is down. This pleases him. He's still having trouble with his defense, taking another hit as he tries not to toss his cookies too far, but he finally builds enough composure to strike back. And strike back he does, a vicious slash with the faintly glowing sword blessed by Feiu of the Tears. It weeps for those chained to life against their will even as Azog goes about unchaining them. By hacking, in between trying not to hurl.

<OOC> Lash says, "Oh. Fort saves, also, everyone."

<OOC> Lash says, "Everyone, even."

GAME: Azog rolls fortitude: (7)+8: 15

<OOC> Sharna says, "Ah, he's already in that square? I'll let him have at it instead, then, and begin the slow switch to ranged."

GAME: Sharna rolls Fortitude: (4)+8: 12

<OOC> Lash says, "Sharna you're fine to do that, you're both okay. Aenyn's fort roll?"

GAME: Aenyn rolls fort: (15)+5: 20

<OOC> Sharna says, "It'll take up my whole turn just to sheathe my swords, so that'll be my entire action."

<OOC> Lash says, "All fine."

<OOC> Lash says, "It stinks, by the way. Really badly. Maybe you're all used to it by now from the first one. :)"

As Azog unleashes his vital strike, slashing through bits of construct that would probably have been quite vital on a living being, it groans faintly and unleashes a gout of stench the same as the first one did. Fortunately, having settled stomachs somewhat from the first one, the party seems stronger against this particular brand of foulness.

<OOC> Azog says, "In other words, there's only so much you can heave. ;)"

Maybe Sharna's electing to keep away from the horrible, horrible mound of undoubtedly rotting flesh that's still moving because her eyes are beginning to water from its unique aroma - or perhaps because Aenyn is already perfectly positioned to inflict some pain on it, and she'd have to risk a swipe of that enormous fist to reach an advantageous position. Be as it may, she remains where she is, slamming her swords in their sheathes and reaching for her bow instead.

She doesn't look TOO green around the gills and is keeping her sparse lunch down, but it's clear the scent is doing a number on her nose.

<OOC> Lash says, "Aenyn, your action?"

<OOC> Aenyn says, "Flanking stabbity."

<OOC> Aenyn says, "+1 shortsword."

<OOC> Lash says, "Sure thing."

GAME: Aenyn rolls weapon7+2: (8)+8+2: 18

<OOC> Lash says, "So very nearly down."

<OOC> Lash says, "Coming apart, but still holding strong for one more hit. This time on Aenyn."

<OOC> Aenyn says, "That was attack, not damage. ;)"

<OOC> Lash sigh.

<OOC> Lash says, "I must pay more attention. Roll damage."

<OOC> Aenyn says, "Assuming that was a hit, *this* is damage:"

GAME: Aenyn rolls 1d6+3+3d6: (2)+3+(12): 17

<OOC> Lash says, "Same outcome ;)"

<OOC> Aenyn laughs

<OOC> Lash says, "Now it is going to wail on Aenyn, before someone finishes it off."

GAME: Lash rolls 1d20+7: (18)+7: 25

GAME: Lash rolls 1d20+2: (16)+2: 18

<OOC> Lash says, "One hit."

GAME: Lash rolls 1d8+3: (2)+3: 5

<OOC> Lash says, "Fort save, please."

GAME: Aenyn rolls fortitude: (6)+5: 11

GAME: Lash damaged Aenyn for 5 points. 35 remaining.

GAME: Lash damaged Azog for 8 points. 55 remaining.

<OOC> Lash says, "That's from earlier."

<OOC> Lash finally found the command.

<OOC> Lash says, "Again."

<OOC> Lash says, "Aenyn, you feel feverish."

<OOC> Lash says, "No numeric effect yet."

<OOC> Lash says, "Azog!"

<OOC> Azog says, "I attack. I have a full attack?"

<OOC> Lash says, "Yep. It is stood right there."

GAME: Azog rolls 1d20+15: (5)+15: 20

GAME: Azog rolls 1d20+10: (19)+10: 29

<OOC> Lash says, "Hit, hit."

GAME: Azog rolls 1d20+10: (13)+10: 23

<OOC> Lash says, "..hit."

<OOC> Azog says, "Second was a threat."

<OOC> Lash nods.

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

<OOC> Lash says, "Roll damage."

<OOC> Lash says, "Dead!"

GAME: Azog rolls 2d10+20: (8)+20: 28

<OOC> Lash says, "(again)"

<OOC> Lash says, "Pose it, and we're out of combat for now."

GAME: You clear initiatives.

GAME: Lash has cleared initiatives.

Aenyn has made his way to an advantageous position and he takes full...advantage of it. One well-placed stab with his shortsword severs some of the stitching on the thing, causing it to come apart a bit, though it manages to keep together. He winces at the stench that is released and promptly stumbles backwards a step as he's pummeled.

<OOC> Aenyn afks a moment to feed the cats before they drive him batty. ;)

Azog can't stop the creature from turning on Aenyn as the half-elven man catches its attention with his attack, but he can make it pay. As soon as it shows Azog its back, the mighty oruch raises his blade and hacks straight down, splitting its head in half down to its shoulders. Following through, he pulls the blade straight back and swings it in a flat arc even as the creatures struggles end, his stroke cleaving the creature off above the shoulders. He backs away from the reek and stench. "Ugh."

There is one construct in the maze who now - briefly - knows the danger of turning your back on an angry oruch. Alas the knowledge cannot be shared as it crumples, parts separating much as the first, though this one does not have the social fortitude to do it with graceful embaressment. It just goes thud.

Hand halfway to where her bow rests, Sharna stops mid-motion as the final construct is brutally put down by Azog. She walks the few steps necessary to retrieve her dagger, her other hand lifting the hem of her cloak and putting it to her face.

No, she is not pretending to be a terror of night - just using the cloth to try filther some of the foul, foul smell the things are no doubt still giving off. "We should keep going. Whoever is using these things has probably heard the racket and is preparing for us. Let's not give him too much time." she suggests, her words a little muffled by layers of cloth.

<OOC> Lash says, "Pose on!"

Aenyn sheathes his sword after the last golem goes down. He sighs softly and puts a hand to his head, closing his eyes. He nods to Sharna, "I agree. Let's get away from these things."

Azog nods to what Sharna says about the enemy preparing, and not giving them time. He shoulders his shield so that he can wipe the gore from his sword, and cleans as much of the filth from his armor and helmet as he can while still moving forward, nodding vehemently to Aenyn.

The corridor remains 8' wide and 25' long, with a bend to the left at the end.

Sharna retakes her place in the lead, and with weapons gathered, moves onwards. Her eyes still dart about the surroundings - careful of traps. The way she sees it, it's only luck that's had them not run into one so long, luck that likely won't hold - or, perhaps, relative safety on the one path through the maze, so clearly marked by the crimson drag marks on the floor.

Aenyn pages: Does the feverish feeling persist after leaving the area of the golem pieces?

You paged Aenyn with 'Yep.'

Aenyn falls into the rear of the group once again as they move on. After a little while of walking, the flush-looking rogue speaks up, "Is it just me, or does it feel like it's getting hotter in here?"

GAME: Sharna rolls Perception+4: (16)+18+4: 38

You paged Sharna with 'The corridor around the bend goes on for maybe 35 feet, before turning right. Before the bend however.'

You paged Sharna with 'On the wall facing the way you would be coming, is a fairly obvious arrow trap. Your experienced eye suggests it is automatic. Less obviously however in front of it, is a 20' pit trap. It may be triggered by weight, but you're not 100%.'

"Wait." Sharna says, holding up a hand. She removes the sunrod from where it sits secure in her belt, slowly moving it above her head, to her side, and back again to see how the light falls on whatever it is she's looking at.

"Arrow slit, on the wall. And a trap door in front. Hold on." she relays, setting the sunrod back in her belt and sheathing the dagger, freeing her hands. She makes certain her tools are close at hand, and then creeps forward, intent on disabling the traps.

<OOC> Sharna is going to try work some disablin' magic, starting with whichever one is closer, obviously.

<OOC> Sharna says, "And by 'magic' I mean 'skill check', and by 'skill check' I mean 'Disable Device with Trapfinding'."

<OOC> Lash says, "Sure. First however, you are going to get sniped at."

Azog holds position as Sharna calls for a halt, nodding stiffly. He says to Aenyn, "Our wounds are likely infected, as filthy as those things were. I feel it, too. There's not much we can do here, though, but tough it out until we can get back to the city." He watches curiously at Sharna pauses, and peers at whatever she's peering at. "Uh... good eye," he says. In case she really has found something.

<OOC> Lash does not think it needs to go to inits, since it's just one trap. Agree? It will fire once per Sharna-pose until disabled.

<OOC> Sharna says, "Fine by me."

<OOC> Azog nods.

<OOC> Azog says, "Can I roll 'to assist' and stand in front of the trap?"

<OOC> Lash says, "You may!"

<OOC> Lash says, "Except.."

<OOC> Lash says, "Let Sharna describe it first."

<OOC> Azog says, "Sure."

<OOC> Sharna says, "So - as soon as I move into the corridor, the arrow thing will fire?"

<OOC> Lash says, "Yep."

Aenyn sighs in response to Azog's comment about infection, "Lovely. Knew we should've brought an Althean with us." At the mention of the trap, he steps out of the line of sight of the arrow slit, if possible, and waits for Sharna to disarm it. "Let me know if you need an extra pair of hands."

<OOC> Sharna says, "So that'll be my priority, then. Do I need to actually move to the mechanism to fiddle with it?"

<OOC> Lash says, "You cannot get to it without crossing the pit trap."

<OOC> Lash says, "The corridor is 25' long. 20' of that is pit trap, with the arrow slit on the far wall."

<OOC> Lash says, "35' long, even."

<OOC> Sharna says, "Does the pit trap cover the bit directly at the arrow trap?"

<OOC> Lash says, "Yep."

<OOC> Sharna says, "Oh god. So basically, I have to disarm the pit trap, THEN the arrow trap. Lovely. XD"

<OOC> Lash says, "You could /theoretically/ get past both with a damn good jump, into the bend, but it would have to be damn good. :)"

<OOC> Sharna says, "I can take some arrows, I'm sure. Green Oruch Can't Jump, after all."

<OOC> Azog says, "Can she disable the pit trap while I cover her with my shield?"

<OOC> Sharna says, "(Not in that armor, anyway, they can't. XD )"

<OOC> Azog says, "Yeah, I can't jump even without armor."

<OOC> Sharna says, "I -should- be fine. I'm unwounded, and well, this is kind of what my class is -for-. XD"

<OOC> Aenyn says, "Bonus to AC and Reflex vs traps. ;)"

<OOC> Azog says, "I know. But sitting around is boring, so I was looking for something useful to do. ;)"

<OOC> Lash says, "Sharna, moving into the corridor and kneeling to try wedging the pit trap?"

"Clever design, that." Sharna comments. "The pit protects the mechanism of the arrow trap in the far wall. Extends about twenty feet far as I can tell. The arrow trap reloads and fires automatically. And I can't see if there's anything else around the bend, so that's a problem." she muses.

"I hope the pay's worth this. Drag me back here if I get mowed down, will you?" Sharna asks of her allies, and then - well. Then she's going in, to do what she's trained to do, tools in hand.

<OOC> Lash says, "Covering her with the shield would probably not help with the Disable Device."

<OOC> Lash says, "Gimme a DD roll, Sharna."

<OOC> Sharna says, "Ayup! I'm totally getting in there. Hopefully alone. They're both feverish and wounded. XD"

GAME: Lash rolls 1d20+15: (5)+15: 20

GAME: Sharna rolls Disable Device+4+2: (1)+18+4+2: 25

<OOC> Azog says, "Not with the DD, but it'd help with not getting shot."

<OOC> Sharna says, "Oh dear god."

<OOC> Lash says, "It misses."

<OOC> Lash says, "I do not believe you can critfail skill checks, can you."

<OOC> Azog says, "No."

<OOC> Lash says, "And 25 is enough to disable the pivot."

<OOC> Sharna says, "You can't, no, save a unique UMD case."

<OOC> Lash says, "Gimme a second one to disable the arrow trap, Sharna."

GAME: Lash rolls 1d20+15: (15)+15: 30

GAME: Lash rolls 1d10+5: (3)+5: 8

<OOC> Lash says, "Also, a fort save."

GAME: Sharna rolls Disable Device+4+2: (3)+18+4+2: 27

<OOC> Lash says, "Safe."

GAME: Sharna rolls Fortitude: (20)+8: 28

GAME: Lash damaged Sharna for 8 points. 77 remaining.

<OOC> Lash says, "And, not envenomed."

<OOC> Lash says, "Okay! Pose on. Traps are disabled."

<OOC> Lash says, "Once you have all posed, I will fast forward us through the remainder of the maze, as there are no more traps."

<OOC> Lash says, "Although you will see more little piles of teeth with flowers in, and a few dismembered body parts just laying around."

Sharna dashes right into the corridor, leaning neatly out of the way of the first heavy bolt that comes sailing through the air. It shatters on the wall behind her as she kneels down, awkwardly jamming a jagged piece of metal in the mechanism that allows the pit trap to fall open. It's a shoddy job, and the whole thing creaks viciously when she steps on it - but the jam holds.

It's the momentary pause of hearing that noise that has her not spin out of the way of the next arrow nearly fast enough. It gets her in the side, leaving a gash as big as one would expect of a projectile of that size, and a trickle of ichor the tip has been drenched in.

The string of expletives in a mixture of Sildanyari and Tradespeak that comes out of Sharna's mouth would make a sailor blush. She frustratedly jabs the metal tools of her trade into the arrow slit, twisting the firing mechanism sideways. The next arrow hits the inside of the trap's fitting, and the following ones pile up behind it, creating a jam of splinters and metal in a cacophony of screeching machinery.

"It's safe. Step lightly. One at a time." she implores, as she herself steps off the jammed pit trap's lid.

Azog pulls back at first as the traps are discovered, then leans out, as if he's planning on coming out. But can't really do a lot to help Sharna, given the layout of the place, so he stands ready, shield up, in case he needs to move forward and take action. But it's over that fast, and he'll come out now, walking as lightly as he can over the floor trap, stepping gently until he's on solid ground.

Aenyn waits until Azog's across the pit trap. If he can make it, Aenyn will have no trouble. He slips around the corner and nimbly makes his way across the jammed pit trap. He may have some shortcomings, but grace certainly isn't one of them. Once he's on the other side, he looks to others, "Hopefully, that's the worst we encounter from here on."

On and on, through the maze. The blood trail has dried up somewhat, the body being dragged apparently having run out of vital fluid. A few wrong turns take the party down dead ends with such things as a fountain shaped like cavorting dragons, another 'dead' trap in the shape of a gaping pit that has been partially filled with rubble, enough to get by. There is also another bench with a dead body on, this one with piles of rocks next to it, and a dead-end wall with a once-beautiful painting of open skies filled with birds on, now scratched-at and filthy with dust.

Finally, there is a sign of /other/ light, the flickering yellow-orange of torches. You are now at a right-turn bend, about 20' before another right turn. You can see the light, and you can hear soft incantation. Someone casting spells. Though, nothing is exploding yet.

Sharna draws the still-lit sunrod with a single, slow motion, handing it off to Azog. The oruch may not need it, but he can hold it, especially with other illumination available. As for the mulblood herself, she needs to be rid of it at least momentarily so its radiance doesn't give her away. She's putting her back to the wall and seems to be making motions to slink up and peek around that hopefully final corner of the maze-like construction.

Azog is looking a little green, that is, greener than normal, as the slow, wary trek leads onwards, and it's almost a sigh of relief as he spots the light ahead. "I'm afraid the worst is yet to come," he says to Aenyn. "We've got find whatever made those awful zombies and stop them. I don't expect we'll find the adventurers that got taken, and it's not looking like we'll find their bodies, either. Not intact, anyhow." Taking the sunrod from Sharna, he backs away down the corridor and sets it down so that the light from it doesn't spill past the edge of the corridor where it turns.

<OOC> Sharna doth sneaketh! Maybe gets a spell in the face! XD

GAME: Sharna rolls Stealth: (2)+18: 20

<OOC> Sharna says, "QUITE POSSIBLY."

Alas, not /quite/ the final corner. This corridor does a U-turn, so there are /two/ bends. Tricksy. Sharna is able to sneak up to the entrance however, and... As Sharna peeks into the room and relays to the two men, she sees a room about 25' long and 20' wide, with exits on the far side as well as to the left. Some shelves partly block this entrance, though not enough to prevent access, while on the left near wall is a table covered in.. things. Things in jars.

Along the left side wall is a stand upon which a much larger fleshy golem stands, being attended to by a human in fairly well-made clothing, his belt replete with wands and scrolls, though his hands currently hold a needle and thread. There are two tables in the centre, and directly opposite your entrance on the far wall such as it is, there is a tiny room - barely a closet even - with a curtain over the door and a pool of blood in front of it. From there, the faintest sounds of chains rattling or flesh sliding on stone.

<OOC> Lash says, "Also: http://tinyurl.com/awrp2bx"

<OOC> Lash says, "As that will help. :)"

<OOC> Azog says, "Ah, cool."

<OOC> Lash says, "For clarity, the squares there are 10'."

<OOC> Lash says, "Let us have some inits, I think."

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

GAME: Aenyn rolls initiative: Roll: 20 + Bonus: 4 = Total: 24

GAME: You roll initiative for FGolem1: Roll: 12 + Bonus: -1 = Total: 11

GAME: Azog rolls initiative: Roll: 11 + Bonus: 2 = Total: 13

GAME: You roll initiative for Rhodin: Roll: 13 + Bonus: 6 = Total: 19

<OOC> Lash says, "Okedoke, Aenyn."

<OOC> Aenyn says, "I think I will be sneaking around the corner and attempting to snipe the fancy tailor. I'll even attempt the Snipe functionality of the Stealth skill."

GAME: Aenyn rolls stealth+3: (6)+23+3: 32

<OOC> Lash says, "Okedoke. Stealth, shoot, then stealth again."

<OOC> Lash says, "Second stealth is at -20."

GAME: Aenyn rolls weapon2: (4)+8: 12

GAME: Aenyn rolls stealth+3-20: (6)+23+3+-20: 12

<OOC> Lash says, "Alas, no hit."

GAME: Lash rolls 1d20+4: (3)+4: 7

GAME: Lash rolls 1d20: (4): 4

<OOC> Lash says, "..."

<OOC> Lash says, "Wow."

<OOC> Lash says, "Okay! Rhodin - his turn."

<OOC> Lash says, "Rhodin may not be able to see the sniper, but he sure as heck saw the arrow."

<OOC> Lash says, "So he is going to cast invisibility on himself! Because he is a coward. And then he is going to move vry quietly. Maybe."

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

<OOC> Lash says, "Very quietly, for a spellcaster!"

<OOC> Lash says, "Azog!"

<OOC> Azog says, "Is perception to locate people free? Also, is the monster free and able to move?"

Long distance to Aenyn: Lash has you placed just on the other side of the shelves.

The shadows envelop Aenyn like a lover as he creeps around the corner and readies his bow. Once he's in position, he lets loose with an arrow that goes wide, striking the wall near the "tailor's" head. He quickly ducks back into the shadows to try and avoid any magical retaliation.

<OOC> Lash says, "The monster does not appear to be restrained."

<OOC> Lash says, "And you may try perception, sure."

GAME: Azog rolls perception: (18)+10: 28

<OOC> Lash says, "He's stood in the entrance to the far corridor, beside the closet-room."

<OOC> Lash says, "Or so your ears tell you."

<OOC> Azog says, "I'm gonna have a miss chance if I attack him anyhow, so I'll run in and Vital Strike the monster."

<OOC> Lash nods.

<OOC> Lash says, "You may not charge, there are tables in the way."

<OOC> Lash says, "But you can move and hit, yes."

<OOC> Azog says, "I can't charge with vital strike in any event."

<OOC> Lash says, "Ahh."

<OOC> Lash says, "Go for it."

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

<OOC> Lash says, "Alas no."

<OOC> Azog says, "Alas."

<OOC> Lash says, "Sharna."

<OOC> Sharna says, "Hmmmm."

<OOC> Sharna says, "What's on the tables?"

<OOC> Lash says, "Probably better not to ask."

<OOC> Lash says, "Entrails, dismembered limbs, blood, jars of organs in formaldehyde, etc."

<OOC> Sharna says, "Is there liquid that might spill all over the floor? Even if gross?"

<OOC> Lash says, "Yep."

<OOC> Sharna says, "Alright. Here's my idea. I'm going to try kick a table over."

<OOC> Lash says, "Sure thing. Near table?"

Azog lumbers into the room, shield up, and he looks around for bad guys. He can see the monster, and is that ... maybe? Maybe not. Well, he's got a monster to fight, so he keeps moving, sword out, shield up, and exacutes a neat attack on the monster, but he misjudges the position of the tables, he thoguht he could swing and be okay, but the edge of his sword gets dangerously close to some of that stuff, and he pulls his blow rather than risk it blowing up in his face, so that the swing towards the monster is wobbly and slow.

<OOC> Sharna says, "So that all this junk spills all over the place and when the guy walks through, we can better see where he is. And sure."

<OOC> Lash says, "Gimme a strength check."

<OOC> Lash says, "Not difficult, but."

GAME: Sharna rolls Strength: (6)+1: 7

<OOC> Sharna, FEEBLE. :(

<OOC> Lash says, "Feeble :("

<OOC> Lash says, "You can shake a few things off, but the table is stone, so quite hard to flip."

<OOC> Lash says, "For a keebler half-elf."

<OOC> Lash says, "Golem!"

<OOC> Lash says, "Full round on Azog."

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

GAME: Lash rolls 1d20+13: (4)+13: 17

<OOC> Lash says, "Miss, miss, I believe."

<OOC> Azog says, "Indeed."

<OOC> Lash says, "Top of the round, Aenyn."

"Damn it." Sharna curses as the fancily dressed man vanishes into thin air. Looking about and thinking fast, she rushes to one of the tables and gives it a kick in an attempt to topple it and have its contents paint the floor so that the invisible man's steps can be traced.

Except, the kick doesn't carry any particular momentum. The table shudders, sending a few jars carelessly left around the edges toppling - but that is all. Sharna glares at it. It stares stony, tably defiance right back.

<OOC> Aenyn says, "I assume Azog has blocked any melee access to the flesh golem? And shooting, of course, would garner a shooting into melee penalty."

<OOC> Lash says, "You could move around to get to the other side, around the tables."

<OOC> Aenyn says, "I will do this, remaining all stealthified."

The larger flesh golem, easily the size of a troll and made up of mighty adventurer arms and legs - although a little disturbingly, the torso came from a giantborn woman and still has a lacy bra partly hanging on - stirs to life as Azog comes up and tries to say hello. It returns the favour, though the meaty fists glance off his armor.

<OOC> Aenyn says, "And drawing my sword in the process."

<OOC> Lash says, "Surely."

<OOC> Aenyn says, "Am I still able to attack with flanking?"

<OOC> Lash says, "Also, do any of you have spell resistance?"

<OOC> Lash says, "You may."

<OOC> Azog says, "No SR"

GAME: Aenyn rolls weapon7+2: (9)+8+2: 19

<OOC> Lash says, "Miss."

<OOC> Lash says, "Rhodin does.. something."

<OOC> Lash says, "You can hear faint chanting, but nothing more."

<OOC> Lash says, "Azog."

<OOC> Azog says, "Full attack."

<OOC> Lash says, "Roll 'em."

GAME: Azog rolls 1d20+15: (9)+15: 24

GAME: Azog rolls 1d20+10: (2)+10: 12

<OOC> Lash says, "One hit."

GAME: Azog rolls 1d10+10: (5)+10: 15

<OOC> Lash says, "Is your weapon magical?"

<OOC> Azog says, "+2"

<OOC> Lash nod.

<OOC> Lash says, "It hurts."

<OOC> Lash says, "Sharna."

<OOC> Sharna says, "Nope, no SR. And I'll join in the fun on the golem thingie. Might as well get rid of one threat at a time. Is there a flanking position available?"

<OOC> Lash says, "Just about. The three of you can cluster about it with care."

Azog is in the golem's face now, growling defiance for what that's worth, though he says, "I've got this one, find the other." He puts his shoulder behind his shield and deflects a brutal strike from one of the thing's fists, letting the hit spin him around to bring his sword to bear. He lashes out, striking with the razor-edged steel, leaving a slash along the flesh. He has to bat away another attack, too slow to cut it any worse.

Aenyn slips around behind the flesh golem, remaining unseen in the shadows. He lashes out with his shortsword, the blade glancing off the flesh of the golem without actually penetrating. Aenyn frowns in consternation at the failed attack, "I think this fever's getting to me."

<OOC> Lash says, "Sharna, please make an acrobatics roll for me."

<OOC> Lash says, "As the floor is now splashed with grossness."

GAME: Sharna rolls Acrobatics: (2)+18: 20

<OOC> Lash says, "S'all good."

<OOC> Lash says, "You can move up to the flesh golem and hit it."

<OOC> Sharna says, "Then I shall draw weapons, move and claim the flanking position (ideally with Aenyn - sorry, Azog, but you aren't dependant on it for damage!) for whatever nation I'm representing at this time, and stab me a golem."

<OOC> Azog says, "Totally fine. ;)"

GAME: Sharna rolls 1d20+6+6+1+2+2: (11)+6+6+1+2+2: 28

<OOC> Lash says, "Hit"

GAME: Sharna rolls 1d6+3+5d6: (5)+3+(18): 26

<OOC> Lash says, "Golem!"

<OOC> Sharna says, "Same as before - piercing, magical (this is the MH shortsword, but OH is the same, just with +1 instead of +2)."

<OOC> Lash says, "This is my berserk check."

GAME: Lash rolls 1d20: (15): 15

<OOC> Lash says, "No berserk."

<OOC> Lash is, incidently, going bottom-up, for the record. Cumulative 1 chance, starting with a 1 on the d20.

<OOC> Lash says, "1% even"

<OOC> Lash says, "As it is not berserking, it is going to hit Sharna."

GAME: Lash rolls 1d20+13: (4)+13: 17

GAME: Lash rolls 1d20+8: (8)+8: 16

<OOC> Lash says, "../try/ to hit Sharna."

<OOC> Lash says, "Aenyn!"

<OOC> Aenyn says, "Stabbing golem again! Or trying to anyway."

Sharna slips and slides along the now-slick floor towards the golem. How she manages not to injure herself drawing her swords is anyone's guess (and it's a very close thing, too!), but she eventually manages to stop by the golem, dividing its attention and making it expose the stitching that keeps it in one piece. A blade flicks forward, ripping into some of the stitches on its side, leaving... some fluid or other, it's best not to think of it, trickling from the wound.

The golem pushes to its full height, lashing out with fists at the mulblood who stabbed it so unkindly. Fortunately she is quite limber, able to dodge the clumsy blows with ease.

GAME: Aenyn rolls weapon7+2: (1)+8+2: 11

<OOC> Lash says, "Alas."

<OOC> Lash says, "Rhodin's turn."

<OOC> Lash says, "There is more quiet muttering from.. somewhere in the room."

<OOC> Lash says, "Azog."

<OOC> Azog says, "The thing is Large, you said?"

<OOC> Lash says, "Ayep"

There is a distinct lack of spellcaster in evidence. Maybe Rhodin fled like the coward he seems to be. Or.. maybe he did not.

<OOC> Azog says, "So, it should be 10x10? With two flanking spots on each side?"

Aenyn stabs towards the golem again, but it seems some of the stuff Sharna spilled has trickled over to his part of the floor. His boot hits it and he slips. Though it's not enough to make him fall, it does cause his lunge to go wide. He adds to the creative cursing that's been used this day.

<OOC> Lash says, "Sure."

<OOC> Azog will hop into one of those if he can? Can I 5' there?

<OOC> Lash says, "You may!"

<OOC> Azog will then full attack.

<OOC> Lash nod.

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

GAME: Azog rolls 1d20+12: (6)+12: 18

<OOC> Lash says, "One hit."

GAME: Azog rolls 1d10+1d6+10: (8)+(5)+10: 23

<OOC> Azog forgot his sneak die last time.

<OOC> Lash says, "Nice."

<OOC> Lash says, "Sharna."

<OOC> Sharna says, "I try record an episode of Will It Blend."

<OOC> Sharna says, "I'll be the Blendtec blender, and the golem can be whatever we're blending. Full attack."

<OOC> Lash says, "Sure."

GAME: Sharna rolls 1d20+6+6+1+2-2+2: (3)+6+6+1+2+-2+2: 18 GAME: Sharna rolls 1d20+6+6+1+2-2+2-5: (16)+6+6+1+2+-2+2+-5: 26 GAME: Sharna rolls 1d20+6+6+1+1-2+2: (12)+6+6+1+1+-2+2: 26 GAME: Sharna rolls 1d20+6+6+1+1-2+2-5: (17)+6+6+1+1+-2+2+-5: 26

<OOC> Lash says, "Three hits."

<OOC> Sharna says, "Bizarre consistency - I have it. o.O"

Azog growls as it turns its attention away from him. That's not how you hold a creature's attention! At least it hasn't struck home yet, but that might be a matter of time. If that's the case, he's going to go all out, himself, swinging furiously to try to hack the huge thing to bits. One weak blow as he gets set up, fails to score, but then he catches it on the backswing and hacks at it brutally, leaving a long cut.

<OOC> Azog says, "Wow."

GAME: Sharna rolls 1d6+3+5d6: (4)+3+(17): 24

GAME: Sharna rolls 1d6+1+5d6: (3)+1+(9): 13

GAME: Sharna rolls 1d6+1+5d6: (1)+1+(16): 18

<OOC> Lash o.o

<OOC> Lash says, "It is on its last legs!"

<OOC> Lash says, "Aenyn :)"

<OOC> Aenyn says, "I will go with my one measly attack. ;)"

GAME: Aenyn rolls weapon7+2: (3)+8+2: 13

<OOC> Lash says, "Alas."

<OOC> Lash says, "Rhodin!"

<OOC> Lash says, "Actually does something you can see, this time."

<OOC> Lash says, "Lightning bolt for fun and profit. Reflex saves, please."

GAME: Aenyn rolls reflex: (20)+10: 30

<OOC> Aenyn has Evasion as well.

Straightening from dodging the thing's enormous fists, Sharna responds in kind. Teeth grit, her blades lash out in unison - one of many blows is deflected, but others get past the brute construct's defenses. The mulblood is twisting the blades where they embed: to a living thing, it would be unspeakable agony; to this thing, it's terrible structural damage.

GAME: Azog rolls reflex: (15)+6: 21

GAME: Sharna rolls Reflex: (19)+14: 33

<OOC> Sharna is also a proud owner of Evasion.

GAME: Lash rolls 6d6: (28): 28

GAME: Lash damaged Azog for 14 points. 41 remaining.

Appearing - flying, laying flat against the ceiling in fact in the passage across from where the group entered - Rhodin motions with one hand and a sharp bolt of lightning crackles forth, striking all four. Or it would, if Sharna and Aenyn were where they'd been a second ago, with Azog just catching the edge of it. The golem however - the golem is not damaged, no. It is healed, some of its wounds visibly closing themselves up with the aid of the electricity.

<OOC> Azog says, "How high up is he?"

<OOC> Lash says, "About 12'"

<OOC> Lash says, "Since the ceiling is 15'"

<OOC> Azog says, "I think I'll continue to wail on the golem. I don't have anything that can really do ranged, and I can't get up there to tangle with him. Nor do I have anything with reach."

<OOC> Lash says, "Sure thing."

GAME: Azog rolls 1d20+17: (7)+17: 24

GAME: Azog rolls 1d20+12: (12)+12: 24

Aenyn is having a tough time getting his sword to go into the flesh golem it seems. Another attack glances off its magically toughened hide. Then there's a lightning bolt flying at him and he *dances* out of the way of it, ending with him pressed against the wall for a moment after the bolt passes. He lets out a breath he didn't realize he had been holding as he glares up at the wizard.

<OOC> Lash says, "Hit, hit."

GAME: Azog rolls 1d10+1d6+10: (9)+(3)+10: 22

GAME: Azog rolls 1d10+1d6+10: (4)+(3)+10: 17

<OOC> Lash says, "Ded."

<OOC> Lash says, "Sharna!"

Azog growls as the lightning strikes him, though he was at least able to avoid the worst of it. What's worse is that it seems to be healing the monster. "No," he grunts, "I don't think so." Where the lightning healed, Azog's blade cuts in, cutting open along the healed flesh, and then as Azog twists his wrist, he splits the flesh away, slashing the creature apart with mighty blows.

<OOC> Sharna says, "He's 12 feet up, you say. Is there any platform positioned so that it might reduce the distance if used to stand on? The tables, shelves?"

<OOC> Lash says, "He's in the corridor opposite the one you came in from."

<OOC> Lash says, "You could move a table, but there's nothing immediately handy."

<OOC> Sharna says, "Ah. Hm. Well, let's start by sheathing my swords, which will take up this turn entirely."

<OOC> Lash nods. Aenyn!

"Oh, ew. Ew, ew, ew."

That'll be Sharna, who had dived for safety by pure, incredibly honed instinct.

And now has the gloop that is all over the floor all over her cloak instead.

She holds up the hem. It drips horribleness, and Sharna's face skews in disgust.

Muttering about needing a new cloak, she stows her blades, glaring daggers - metaphorical, not literal - up at the flying mage.

<OOC> Aenyn says, "I'll take an action to sheath my sword, then another action to move away from the others so we're not so clustered together, drawing my short bow as I move."

<OOC> Lash says, "Sure thing."

<OOC> Lash says, "Rhodin's turn."

GAME: Lash rolls 1d4+2: (2)+2: 4

With the flesh golem falling apart from Azog's masterful attacks, Aenyn sheaths his sword. It won't be much use against the wizard until he can be brought down to the floor once more. With this in mind, he slips away from the others so that they don't make such a tempting target for big, nasty spells, readying his short bow as he goes.

<OOC> Lash says, "There are now five Rhodins, and he's moving around with them such that it is difficult to tell which one was the original."

<OOC> Lash says, "When attacked I will use 1d5, and #5 is the real deal."

<OOC> Lash says, "Azog!"

<OOC> Azog says, "I don't think I'm smart enough to know if any of the stuff on the tables is dangrous stuff that could splash on him?"

<OOC> Lash says, "Not without knowledge/grossness."

<OOC> Lash says, "Or, know/arcane. :)"

<OOC> Azog says, "OK, I will push/bodycheck the table so that it's underneath where they're hovering around. If I have actions left, I will stand on the table."

<OOC> Lash says, "Gimme a strength check, Mr Oruch."

GAME: Azog rolls strength: (8)+5: 13

<OOC> Lash says, "You can get it halfway there."

<OOC> Lash says, "Sharna!"

Azog finds that he can't really reach the caster as he's flying there, and while he has some javelins, it's not really a good plan, he feels, to trade javelins against lightning bolts. So to even things out, he leans in to one of the tables, and shoves it across the floor, grunting with the effort because it's huge and heavy, pulse hammering, vein throbbing in his forehead as he puts his back into it. It scoots very slowly at first.

<OOC> Sharna says, "I'm going to draw my MW shortbow and get working on removing the mirror images."

<OOC> Lash says, "Sure thing."

GAME: Sharna rolls 1d20+6+6+1: (18)+6+6+1: 31

GAME: Lash rolls 1d5: (4): 4

<OOC> Lash says, "Ping, one goes."

<OOC> Lash says, "Aenyn!"

<OOC> Aenyn says, "Ditto. Short bow on the wizard/mirror images."

<OOC> Lash says, "Sure thing."

GAME: Aenyn rolls weapon2: (6)+8: 14

<OOC> Lash says, "Miss!"

<OOC> Lash says, "Rhodin is going to Magic Missile Aenyn."

<OOC> Lash says, "Because he is mean."

<OOC> Aenyn says, "I got something for him next round."

GAME: Lash rolls 2d4+2: (5)+2: 7

GAME: Lash damaged Aenyn for 7 points. 28 remaining.

<OOC> Lash says, "And then, he backs away down around the bend, out of sight."

<OOC> Lash says, "Still flying."

Glancing down at Azog's slow progress, then up at the multitufe of flying mages, Sharna makes the split-second decision of unlimbering her battle-untested bow. An arrow is sent into the gathering of identical mages in short order, and spears one! It would be painful if it weren't but a decoy, the illusion fizzling as the projectile strikes it and leaving the true mage unharmed.

<OOC> Aenyn thpppts ;)

<OOC> Lash says, "Azog!"

<OOC> Azog says, "Keep pushing."

GAME: Azog rolls strength: (1)+5: 6

<OOC> Lash says, "..it may have hit a rut."

<OOC> Azog was just thinking that

<OOC> Lash says, "On this largely very smooth floor, you have found the one rut. Well done. :)"

<OOC> Lash says, "Sharna!"

Now in a better position, Aenyn nocks an arrow and lets fly towards the wizard and his images. Either the fever's getting to him or he's just confused by the multiple wizards because the arrow merely hits the ceiling and shatters. He growls out a few curses in Tradespeak and Low Common, a couple of which he likely just made up on the spot.

Azog's slow progress slows further as Azog pushes the stone table into the puddle of strange chemicals and goop that got knocked off from the shoving, and from the earlier attempt to flip it over. No, it's not the table that's stuck, it's Azog that can't get his footing to push, with the stuff he's standing in trying to eat his boots!

<OOC> Sharna says, "I'm going to carefully step and see where he thinks he's off to, bow and all."

<OOC> Sharna says, "I'll stay in line of sight of my allies, though."

<OOC> Lash says, "Sure. You can get to the corner, so you can see both the room and the corridor."

<OOC> Sharna says, "That is what I shall do."

<OOC> Lash says, "He is backing away around the next corner, though still visible at present."

<OOC> Lash says, "Aenyn!"

<OOC> Aenyn says, "I will follow after Sharna and the wizard, bow in hand."

<OOC> Lash says, "Okedoke."

Growling, cloak all stuck together and dripping evil alchemical goop, Sharna steps after the wizard, stopping at the corner and sighting down another arrow. "You can't fly forever!" she shouts after his fancily-dressed, retreating form times four. "If you surrender now, we might be inclined to be merciful!"

GAME: Lash rolls 1d20+14: (14)+14: 28

<OOC> Lash says, "Okedoke! Scorching Ray time. Two rays. I think Aenyn and Sharna are the two visible ones."

<OOC> Lash says, "Ranged touch, on Sharna and then Aenyn."

GAME: Lash rolls 1d20+2: (10)+2: 12

GAME: Lash rolls 1d20+2: (6)+2: 8

<OOC> Lash says, "..."

<OOC> Lash says, "I /assume/ neither of you have touch AC that low."

<OOC> Lash says, "Being all dextrous and stuff."

<OOC> Sharna says, "Noooot that low, no. >.>"

<OOC> Sharna has a touch AC of 18, she thinks.

<OOC> Aenyn says, "Not likely. It's just 10+Dex+deflection/dodge bonuses, right?"

<OOC> Lash nods.

<OOC> Aenyn says, "Mine's 16 then."

Their faces red with frustration, the four Rhodins each pull a scroll from their belt, open it up and cast vindictively - bright orange bolts of fire fly unerringly towards two tiny cracks on the walls. Clearly that is what they were aiming for, not the two half-elves. The Rhodins continue backing away, flying backwards at 50' around corners they know like the back of their hands.

<OOC> Lash says, "Azog!"

<OOC> Azog says, "I think I'll leave the table in the glue and run after."

<OOC> Azog says, "Doublemove"

<OOC> Lash says, "A'right :)"

Great. Now the wizard's trying to get away. Aenyn follows after Sharna down the corridor, stopping behind her at the corner and peeking around. After the rays scorch past, he looks to Sharna, "I have a feeling he's flying for more reasons than to be out of range of our swords."

Azog belatedly gives up shoving the table. "Stuck in glue," he says to ... no one left. "Damn," he mutters, and picks up his feet, hustling after his allies, who're chasing after the bad guy. Yes, yes they are, he sees a foot going around the corner, and follows as well.

<OOC> Lash says, "Sharna!"

<OOC> Sharna says, "Hrm."

<OOC> Sharna says, "I'm going to double back, actually. I need to see what's in that closet with the screechy chain noises."

<OOC> Lash says, "Sure thing."

<OOC> Lash says, "Cages. Two of which have men in, both Khazad."

<OOC> Lash says, "/Mostly/ dead, but not quite."

<OOC> Lash says, "Aenyn!"

<OOC> Aenyn says, "Searching the immediate area of the corridor for traps. Doesn't trust that shifty wizard."

<OOC> Lash says, "Roll 'em."

GAME: Aenyn rolls perception+3: (5)+12+3: 20

<OOC> Lash says, "Yes."

Sharna straightens after having ducked a searing ray of flame, her expression darkening as she watches the wizard turn another corner. "He's going to have us lost in this place. If we don't die to the traps first." she asides to Aenyn, a little concernedly - and turns back at a brisk jog.

Azog might be surprised to see her pass him, heading back to the laboratory to inspect the part of the room they had no chance to see in the frenzy of the combat.

"I won't hurt you. Hold on, I'll get you out in no time. Can you speak?" she rattles off immediatelly upon spotting the near-dead prisoners within the cages, free hand going for her trusty roll of lockpicks.

<OOC> Lash says, "Around the next corner, a pit trap he has just flown over."

<OOC> Lash says, "Rhodin is going to use his Elemental Ray."

<OOC> Lash says, "On Azog this time, since he seems less nimble."

GAME: Lash rolls 1d20+5: (14)+5: 19

<OOC> Lash says, "Does 19 hit your touch AC?"

<OOC> Azog says, "Oh yeah"

GAME: Lash rolls 3d6+4: (14)+4: 18

GAME: Lash damaged Azog for 18 points. 23 remaining.

Aenyn frowns in the direction the wizard has flown and creeps along, searching the corridor closely. At the corner, he stops and looks back to Azog, "Pit trap right here. I knew there was another reason he was flying. I'll try to disable it..."

Eschewing scrolls this time, the four Rhodins gesture and mutter darkly. More lightning, this time striking Azog square in the chest, ignoring his armor like it isn't there - or perhaps even making use of the oh-so-conductive metals.

He does, however, stop flying away. "Retreat now and leave me!"

<OOC> Azog says, "He's still too far away to hit, yes? Is he within 30 ft?"

<OOC> Lash says, "He is."

<OOC> Azog says, "I'm going to do a Dazzling Display."

<OOC> Lash says, "Do so!"

<OOC> Azog says, "To try and intimidate him"

GAME: Azog rolls intimidate: (10)+19: 29

<OOC> Lash says, "He is shaken."

<OOC> Lash says, "(but not stirred)"

The two captive Khazad, in the meantime, appear to be marginally concious. One of them lifts a hand in silent entreaty towards Sharna as she begins to try picking the locks, the other focuses all his attention on continuing to breathe.

<OOC> Lash says, "Sharna."

<OOC> Sharna says, "I'll start picking locks on the cages and chains to free the living prisoners. Try make sure that even if we have to hightail it, we come back with something to show for all the trouble."

<OOC> Lash nods. Gimme a roll.

<OOC> Lash says, "Two rolls, in fact. You can do two attempts."

Azog gets fried by the elemental ray, catching it full as he shouts in anger, "Surrender now, or it'll go badly for you." Fzap. "Retreat? Die now, or I'll kill you /even more horribly/ than I was planning on!" He bites his tongue now, because he's not really intending to lose it. Calm, rational even, he tries to recenter himself, and he begins working on his sword forms, starting with basic attacks and strikes, but quickly moving to fancy attacks that require both a fine degree of control and an oruch's massive build and strength.

<OOC> Sharna says, "That and I can't leave people sitting in a bloody cage waiting to be hacked to bits and then made into zombie golems. :("

<OOC> Lash says, "Good call."

GAME: Sharna rolls Disable Device+4+2: (15)+18+4+2: 39

GAME: Sharna rolls Disable Device+4+2: (16)+18+4+2: 40

<OOC> Lash says, "..cages? What cages?"

<OOC> Sharna dismantles the cage, leaves the lock.

<OOC> Lash says, "Aenyn!"

<OOC> Aenyn says, "Disabling the pit trap."

<OOC> Lash says, "Roll it."

GAME: Aenyn rolls disable device+3+2: (16)+13+3+2: 34

Setting the shortbow against the wall the lockpicks find their way into the locks. Clearly, this is something that comes naturally to Sharna when there isn't a rapid-fire arrow-unloading mechanism menacing her whilst she works - it takes seconds for the telltale 'click!' of the lock's mechanism releasing to sound, and the other follows soon after. Tossing the locks carelessly aside, the mulblood throws the cages wide open.

Chancing that the wizard may not speak their tongue, she calls in Sildanyari in the general direction of the hall: "Some still live!" and prays that it is enough to get the message across.

<OOC> Lash says, "Disabled!"

<OOC> Lash says, "Rhodin is going to retreat further, looking quite shaken. He is not attacking, only doublemoving."

Aenyn gets to work immediately on doing what he said. After a few moments, he has the mechanism of the pit trap jammed. He looks back to Azog and says, "Should be safe to cross now if we want to continue chasing him."

The mage and his three images disappear around yet another corner, looking quite unhappy about the whole situation - generally, and then specifically when Azog starts showing off his mad skillz.

<OOC> Lash says, "Are you pursuing?"

<OOC> Azog says, "Uhm..."

Azog breaks off pursuit, glaring daggers at the retreating back. Backs. Well, the bottoms of his feet. "Stupid flying mages." He glares hate at them, and if looks could kill, this fight would be over. But the oruch doesn't pursue. "Let's get back," he says to Aenyn. "With only three of us, it'd be bad to get split up. If he doubles back around ...." And with those words, he'll hustle back to Sharna.

GAME: You clear initiatives.

GAME: Lash has cleared initiatives.

<OOC> Lash says, "Pose on!"

Aenyn nods and follows after Azog, backing up at first in case the wizard comes back. When he comes back to the first corner, he resumes moving forward and rejoins Sharna in the lab with the prisoners. "We should look around in here for anything interesting. Maybe he has something that explodes we can use to cave in the entrance once we're outside."

Sharna's currently in the process of looking the prisoners over. She's no healer, not really - but she can see they are not well off.

"Can you walk?" she asks the one that seems to have more wits about him. As for the other, she's already reaching for a gem-tipped wand at her belt.

<OOC> Sharna was totally gonna try UMD a CLW charge on the more messed up dorf.

<OOC> Lash says, "Sure thing."

<OOC> Sharna says, "So he doesn't like... die on us."

<OOC> Lash says, "That -would- be inconveniant."

GAME: Sharna rolls Use Magic Device: (14)+14: 28

GAME: Sharna used a Wand of Cure Light Wounds.

GAME: Sharna rolls 1d8+1: (6)+1: 7

It is possible - probable even - that Khazad #2 is only clinging onto life by the very edges of his fingernails - which themselves are pared back and bloody. Fortunately, there is a half-elf with a bottle of bee-^h^h^h healing potion, and this gets him back to being stable, if not hale and whole. The other one is able to push himself upright, badly hurt but not quite on death's door.

Azog is wary as we rejoin Sharna. Like Aenyn, he's worried that the wizard guy will double back. But with two actual survivors to bring back, and this guy's operation ... well, if not broken up, at least it's no longer secret. "Let's get these two back," he says as Sharna helps the one. To the more alert of the two, he asks, "Do you know about any other prisoners being alive?"

Withdrawing the healing implement once Althea's magics have cured the most grievous of his injuries, Sharna gives the dwarf a companionable clap on the back.

"Don't go anywhere. We just need to find out who this guy is, then we're getting out of here." she promises the pair with a firm nod, gathering her bow and jogging over to do just that. She doesn't much care for the wizard's disgusting work - any setbacks he might suffer from the way she goes turning his lab upside down seeking information... and valuables... are a good thing in her book.

<OOC> Sharna is now just peachy with a wrap-up!

<OOC> Lash says, "Gimme a search roll, everyone."

<OOC> Sharna says, "Normally, Sharna would try not to leave evidence of tampering, but... she's kind of in a hurry. FLIP EVERYTHING."

GAME: Sharna rolls Perception: (2)+18: 20

<OOC> Sharna says, "Goddamn it Perception die. :("

GAME: Azog rolls perception: (5)+10: 15

GAME: Aenyn rolls perception: (5)+12: 17

Collectively, you find all sorts of interesting information. Recipes for how to make various kinds of construct, purchase receipts for scrolls and wands, and most interesting of all - a guild membership roster, and list of current jobs. This couldn't have been issued more than a week ago at most.

The trip back to the guild office, after depositing the two half-dead Khazad on the wagon team waiting at Edgewood, is with sour news. A wizard or sorcerer creating unholy flesh things, a lair full of unholy flesh bits, and the spellcaster escaped. A description of Rhodin brings a surprising response however.

"About so tall, dirty blonde hair, goatee, Charn accent?" the guild offical asks, rifling through some of his papers to find a folder. Opens, flips it up - and there, looking back at you three is a picture of Rhodin himself, as a guild member. -Current-.

"I'll revoke his licence and send out a bunch of engineers to dismantle the tunnels."