Gameplay 1a - The Dark Side Of Love

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Dec 22, 2019 2:10 am
The Village of Wickhampton

Having left Torkertown, you traveled north west toward Cambridge. You are near, hoping to perhaps reach Cambridge in the next day or two, weather permitting.

In the last hamlet, you heard talk of a spate of grave robbings in a small nearby village. Locals in the neighboring hamlets consider themselves fortunate the grave robbers have not spread their wings and come to steal their dead.

The graveyard of the small church in the hamlet of Wickhampton has been desecrated several times over the last six months and corpses stolen. The villagers are divided in their opinion of who is to blame, with grave robbers and necromancers receiving equal curses.

You arrive just before dark and make their way to the inn. While eating your supper, the heroes overhear two locals discussing the situation.

"I know we are late, but I haven't the heart to watch over that cursed graveyard tonight. Another ale might make it better," says one.

"Yer a fool, Jack Larson. Yea think a belly full of rotgut is going to better your odds of survivin' an encounter the dread necromancer? More likely you'll get us both killed. But I not be going there alone, so finish up quick. Molly will never let me hear the end if I give up good wage."
Dec 22, 2019 11:25 pm
From their table Cecily can't help but draw herself into the current conversation. She knows they should keep a low profile, and yet... "I will be back." She stands up, quietly walking up to these locals like a ghost.

"Excuse me...gentlemen." She looks between them, internally deciding that is not the most accurate term. "I couldn't help but give notice to your dilemma. I am a scholar you see, and in the pursuit of knowledge would be enthralled to hear more of the specifics pertaining to the situation."
Dec 23, 2019 1:46 pm
Ataan not one to drink to excess follows at the sound of something curious. "Also Miss Meldrum's associates if free are quite good at dealing with things if there's something amiss if it's a bit odd like an apparition. Also if I'm along I'll try to make sure you get back to this Molly in one piece safe and sound if I can afford such things." Ataan pipes up to state dusting off his hat.
Dec 23, 2019 4:01 pm
Gerald starts to get up and follow but thinks better of it and sits back down. He doesn't want the group to feel threatened, so hoping for more information for his friends from the "gentlemen", he stays put, nursing his ale while listening.
Dec 23, 2019 5:08 pm
They are initially suspicious but are win over easily and explain that they're gravediggers, and a few things: "We aint got no knowing of nothing what's going on...

If you was to give company for party of the night, that would be a mighty kindness...


But they're unable to fill in any other details other than their peasants fear of a dread necromancer.

Will you accompany them to the graveyard this night?
Dec 23, 2019 5:25 pm
"Well gentlemen what say you this two labors are in need of a few extra pair of eyes in case something goes afoot." Ataan asks the others after agreeing to accompany the two men himself.
Dec 23, 2019 5:47 pm
Yes, I will oblige and accompany everyone.
Dec 23, 2019 6:02 pm
Finishing your drinks and wrapping up food for the road, you accompany the gravediggers to the precinct. It's a dark night, with low clouds that hide even star and moon shine. You get close you the churchyard, when you see the glow of a lantern light, and the shadowy forms of several men.

The gravediggers are flummoxed as to how to proceed.

What's your move?
Dec 23, 2019 6:16 pm
"I take it this many people at this time of night is not normal? Maybe we should go and move over quietly and investigate, from what you two were talking about going over in a civilized way might end up with them accosting us..." Ataan suggests looking to the others to see if they have other ideas.
Dec 23, 2019 6:32 pm
The gravediggers, Jack and Grady, both whisper that they're that only ones that should be here this night, so it must be the graverobbers.
Dec 23, 2019 6:32 pm
Or perhaps a distraction by one of us? I mean if we are expecting trouble, perhaps that might be the way to go? Or if we think they are definitely a danger to us, shoot them all from range? They are evil beings no?
Last edited December 23, 2019 6:33 pm
Dec 23, 2019 7:04 pm
"Well get less clues from dead people as to what they were doing." Ataan adds shaking his head.

Remnant sent a note to Qralloq
Dec 23, 2019 8:56 pm
Then send one of us and the rest stay back. I just want to keep us alive.
Dec 23, 2019 9:43 pm
"Anyone know how to sneak around I don't know how but I can give it a go."
Dec 24, 2019 1:26 am
"I could approach them as I did the gentlemen who now accompany us: by simply putting on a calm face. I can probe them for information, meanwhile it should give everyone ample time to get closer, if there is an necromancer about these may be lackeys."
Dec 24, 2019 8:11 pm
I'm not particularly sneaky. That's why I suggested some kind of distraction.
Dec 28, 2019 9:06 pm
Sneakers should make a sneaky test. This should be Stealth, or roll a 1d4-2,1d6-2 of you don't have Stealth as a skill.
Dec 29, 2019 7:16 pm
"I will be the distraction; less weapons on me, less of a perceived threat."
OOC:
I will sacrifice being the distracter if you really want to Windyridge.
Dec 29, 2019 7:34 pm
OOC:
Dear GM, will Cecily's sacrifice give sneakers a circumstance bonus? Gerald doesn't have the stealth skill and it doesn't look like Ataan does either.
Last edited December 29, 2019 7:35 pm
Dec 29, 2019 8:01 pm
A distraction seems like an appropriate way to aid stealth. The distractor will need to make a distracting test (Persuasion or Intimidate are two ways you could do that). A success grants +1 to the stealth rolls, with an additional +1 for each raise (max +4).
Dec 30, 2019 12:18 am
Without waiting for the conversation to degrade further Cecily pulls out a candle, and uses her flint & steel to ignite it. It'll have to do.

Cautiously she walks forward in the darkness, not betraying her calm demeanor as she approaches these mysterious figures. Once she's closed the distance to only 30 feet she calls out. "Excuse me, could any of you help me? I'm searching for a...particular grave."
OOC:
Hmmm......not good.
Last edited December 30, 2019 12:19 am

Rolls

Persuasion - (1d4, 1d6, RA)

1d4 : (1) = 1

1d6 : (3) = 3

Dec 30, 2019 3:29 am
Here goes, Gerald whispers.

He draws his pistol, then stoops and tries to creep up on the figures, moving quickly from one gravestone to another, hiding behind them as he goes, taking a peek and then continuing, stopping within shooting range.
OOC:
Oh Ugh
Last edited December 30, 2019 3:31 am

Rolls

Stealth unskilled - 2 - (1d4)

(4) = 4

wild - 2 - (1d6)

(4) = 4

Dec 30, 2019 7:18 pm
At the flick of light and calling out, the men in the graveyard swear and one says, "Someone's there, let's go!"

They begin to move hurriedly in the opposite direction.

Gerald, who is sneaking up the side, doesn't seem to be noticed, but they're moving quickly, so stealth may become more difficult if you want to keep up.

What does everyone do? If you pursue, this will become a chase.
Dec 30, 2019 7:28 pm
"I guess they like to be chased..." Ataan states chasing after his target.
Dec 31, 2019 3:07 am
"Damnation." Cecily mutters, exasperated at these creeps and her own ability. She takes off after them, already realizing she probably can't match them in a physical contest.
OOC:
Hmmm, too far for entangle spell? ;)
Last edited December 31, 2019 3:07 am
Dec 31, 2019 3:18 am
Gerald runs too knowing that eventually the element of surprise will be lost so he better be ready for when that happens. He keeps his pistol drawn.
Dec 31, 2019 5:34 am
The range on Entangle is Smarts. That's is, 2 yards times the maximum of your Smarts die. For Cecily with a d12, that's 24 yards, or seventy two feet. That's reasonable to me. Go for it.
Dec 31, 2019 5:42 am
Rummaging through her saddlebag Cecily pulls out...a skull, belonging to some kind of rodent. She unceremoniously drops it to the ground, stomping on it with a resounding *Crunch!* The sound permeates the graveyard for something so little. The fragments of bone bury themselves into the ground.

Meanwhile by the escapees the same broken bones suddenly emerge from the ground, seemingly grown in size as they wrap around the leg of one of them.
Last edited December 31, 2019 5:44 am

Rolls

Single Target Entangle with component - (1d10-2, 1d6, RA)

1d10-2 : (5) - 2 = 3

1d6 : (4) = 4

Dec 31, 2019 5:58 am
OOC:
Opposed roll for the group.
Bones reach from that ground of the graveyard, grabbing feet and clothes. While not ensnaring them, they're slowed.

(-2 to Pace, as well as Agility and Strength rolls)
Qralloq sent a note to Qralloq

Rolls

Agility - (1d6)

(2) = 2

Dec 31, 2019 6:08 am
Chase rules
Calling out causes the men to turn tail and make a run for it. Should the heroes give chase, have the heroes make Vigor rolls over a series of rounds. Heroes with the Fleet Footed Edge add +1 to their roll to account for their faster speed. The grave robbers use the rules for Group Rolls. Each success and raise a runner gets nets him 1 token (use coins or gaming stones). If a hero gets 10 tokens before the grave robbers, he has cornered them. Should the grave robbers reach 10 before the heroes, they escape into the night.

Modification: as the runners are Entangled, they'll be at -2 for these checks.

Chasers should make let's say 5 Vigor checks. I'll do the math after everyone has rolled.

Rolls

Secret Roll

Dec 31, 2019 2:02 pm
Gerald is beginning to huff and puff but he keeps up the pace as long as he can for as fast as he can.

Rolls

5 vigor checks - (5d6, RA)

(442634) = 23

5 wild checks - (5d6, RA)

(326345) = 23

Jan 2, 2020 2:18 am
Praise God sighs, then mutters in hushed tones "I will come near to you in judgment; and I will be a swift witness against the sorcerers and oppressors." With those words, he gives chase.

Rolls

5 Vigor rolls - (5d6)

(34334) = 17

5 wild rolls - (5d6)

(33354) = 18

Jan 2, 2020 3:11 pm
Ataan attempts to sprint after the runners

Rolls

Vigor checks - (5d6, RA)

(62) + (665) + (5) + (5) + (3) = 38

Wilds - (5d6, RA)

(53234) = 17

Jan 2, 2020 3:57 pm
Cecily will follow at a brisk pace, using steady strides to maintain her stamina. Chasing hoodlums in the dark, what I fine mess I'm in.
OOC:
I definitely think I'm rolling this incorrectly.

Rolls

Vigor + wild die - (5d8, 1d6, RA)

5d8 : (17652) = 21

1d6 : (1) = 1

Wild die aces (I swear I checked the box - (1d6, RA)

(2) = 2

Jan 2, 2020 7:17 pm
OOC:
Cecily just needs to roll three more 1d6 wild die with RA
Jan 2, 2020 9:22 pm
OOC:
D'oh!

Rolls

Wildin' out - (3d6, RA)

(324) = 9

Jan 3, 2020 3:04 pm
OOC:
Didn't apply to my rolls, but to include re-roll aces, am I reading correctly that you just include "RA" in the rolls section?
Jan 3, 2020 3:51 pm
OOC:
Yeah just put a check mark in the reroll aces box of the dice roller.
Jan 3, 2020 7:07 pm
OOC:
Tough work week for me and was busy last night, but I should have an update by tonight.
Jan 4, 2020 12:14 am
Windyridge says:
OOC:
Yeah just put a check mark in the reroll aces box of the dice roller.
OOC:
ah, see it now; isn't very obvious on mobile. Thanks.
Jan 4, 2020 2:46 am
Mob: 1
PG: 3
Cecily: 4
Gerald: 5
Ataan: 9

As Ataan races ahead, the graverobbers (hampered by freaky bones) quickly realize they're being chased from the darkness, and losing ground. They puff and pull out their simple weapons ready for a beat down.

Ataan is two rounds from engaging them, but outnumbered and alone. Gerald is 4 rounds behind, Cecily and Praise God one and two rounds behind Cecily respectively.

How do you handle this?
Jan 5, 2020 4:44 am
"Oh come now, already tired? If you're already tired what will happen if something in the dark comes for you?" Ataan berates the men loudly his pace slowing as he draws his weapons. "Don't worry even if you are injured and at death's door I will do my best to save you." he reassures them as he continues to close the distance.
OOC:
Pulling weapons andngoingnto go full defend if they move back to attack.
Jan 5, 2020 6:41 am
"This is...entirely unnecessary!" Cecily's has to take large breaths in between her scrutiny as she keeps up the chase. "Where will you even *huff* go?! Come back now!"
Jan 5, 2020 3:27 pm
Since Gerald's pistol was already drawn, he ran as fast as he could, to get as close as he could, then took a shot at one of the grave robbers.
OOC:
Please apply distance or whatever penalties apply to my roll. Not sure how far the robbers are from Gerald.

Rolls

Shooting (Wheelock pistol) - (1d10-2, RA)

(9) - 2 = 7

wild - (1d6-2, RA)

(5) - 2 = 3

If hit, DMG - (2d6+1, RA)

(465) + 1 = 16

Jan 5, 2020 4:07 pm
OOC:
little jumbled but 2 rounds of full movement for me double for gerald, the others behind us. So might be out of range of concise shooting but itll likely still scare the shit out of them.
Jan 5, 2020 4:29 pm
OOC:

Gerald was 4 turns (24 paces) away at the start of his turn.
Pace is 6 per turn if not running. Running gives +1d6 and -2 to actions.
Using his wild die as the run (since that d6 wasn't needed) means he moved 11 (now 13 away) and shot.
Gun range is 5/10/20 with 0/-2/-4 range modifiers. 13 is outside medium range but within long range, so -4. Net result is -6 to the roll, or 3, which just misses.
The gun fires, an explosion in the night, and the bullet whines past a graverobber's ear.

The graverobbers, who are about to jump Ataan, hesitate, uncertain if bringing clubs to a gun fight is how the night was supposed to go, but too tired to run away.

Everyone gets another action. (Thats two for Praise God.)

Distance
PG: 36 paces
Cecily: 24 less 1d6
Gerald: 13
Ataan: 6

You can move 6 paces on your turn and act. If you are running, roll a 1d6 for the extra movement, taking a -2 on actions that round.
Jan 5, 2020 4:39 pm
Blast it! Gerald exclaims, then walks closer, taking advantage of the robbers' temporary hesitation, takes aim and shoots.
OOC:
Distance 7 so minus 2 but aiming for +2 to cancel penalty and missing next action

Rolls

Shooting -2+2 (aim) - (1d10, RA)

(5) = 5

wild -2+2 - (1d6, RA)

(2) = 2

DMG - (2d6+1, RA)

(661) + (1) + 1 = 15

Jan 5, 2020 5:08 pm
Gerald's more careful shot takes the startled graverobber in the face. He flips over backwards and lands face first on the ground in a lifeless hump, the back of his head missing.
Jan 5, 2020 5:12 pm
Praise God will take his 2 turns loading and then firing his flintlock pistol. But he will not be aiming to hit them, only frighten them into submission - whatever these men's crimes, they are still men and ultimate judgment is not his to offer. Perhaps a trip to the stocks or pillory and a serious instructional on the teachings of their saviour Jesus Christ, but not death. Death is reserved for the demons and satanic spawn of this corrupted world.
Last edited January 5, 2020 5:14 pm
Jan 5, 2020 5:15 pm
OOC:
Way to make Gerald feel really baaaad xD
Jan 5, 2020 5:23 pm
OOC:
ha, I wrote that before reading your post :P
Last edited January 5, 2020 5:24 pm
Jan 5, 2020 7:17 pm
The graverobbers, clearly out gunned and facing an unknown band of merciless accosters, drop their weapons one by one and give up. "No, please, don't shoot!" one says, and they all raise their hands.
Jan 5, 2020 9:53 pm
"Right, even I can't do something about that, my apologies. Well line up and kneel please." Ataan states after a pause as he walks up weapons still drawn.
Jan 5, 2020 10:05 pm
As the four of you jog up out of the darkness, Ataan had kicked the weapons away from the three surviving graverobbers.

You've now all there, you've got them surrounded, two smoking guns promising swift judgement if they get frisky.
Jan 5, 2020 11:29 pm
That could have gone better.

Cecily gets down to business. "Given how quickly you fled I am under the impression what all of your were engaged in wasn't legal, or ethical for the matter. With this in mind, would you kindly tell us what exactly you were doing in the graveyard?"
Jan 5, 2020 11:55 pm
Gerald glares at the robbers. If you don't want to end up like your friend, I recommend you leave out no details.
Jan 5, 2020 11:57 pm
Intimidate check please.

Rolls

Spirit

Jan 6, 2020 12:03 am
OOC:
Boo
OOC:
Ohh so close!
Last edited January 6, 2020 12:04 am

Rolls

Intimidate -2 no skill - (1d4-2, RA)

(1) - 2 = -1

wild-2 - (1d4-2, RA)

(41) - 2 = 3

Jan 6, 2020 12:11 am
This is an opposed roll, and you beat their rolled 1.

One of the captured criminals says, "No, please, don't tell the magistrate. We know it's illegal but he promised us good coin!"

Another hisses, "Silence, don' tell nobody nothing!"
Jan 6, 2020 1:23 am
Praise God interjects, "Who promised you good coin? And what was he paying you to exhume?
Jan 6, 2020 2:13 am
The talker answers,"Doctor John Hapgood. He was paying us £1 each to locate and steal fresh female corpses."
Jan 6, 2020 3:17 am
Praise God inches closer to the talker, menacingly. "And where might we find this Doctor Hapgood?"
Jan 6, 2020 3:22 am
And did he happen to mention why he wanted these fresh female bodies?
Jan 6, 2020 3:32 am
The man, to the chagrin of his companions, gives you precise directions to the Hapgood residence. He, much to his personal dismay, can not tell you what the bodies were for, as the Doctor refused to divulge such details.
Jan 6, 2020 1:46 pm
"Well I assume times are rough to have lead you down the path to these choices and for now you've seen the errors of your ways. I suggest you find a different path and a way to make amends for if word gets out to the families of these young woman still in mourning their sorrow will definitely turn into more murderous intent... and there's the chance the ghosts of the dead come back for revenge." Ataan states reprimanding the group of survivors looking to the others to see what they say the final verdict should be.
Jan 7, 2020 6:03 am
"Lovely, a doctor who wishes to find corpses. When is he expecting you?" Cecily asks almost casually, letting Gerald be the strongman.
Jan 7, 2020 1:34 pm
"We are to bring him one tonight."
Jan 7, 2020 2:02 pm
Well then, I think we should accompany you in such a way as to not let the doctor know we are about. Of course you won't let him know we are near? Correct? We will even let you have your money as long as you go along with this.

Gerald has been fighting his old self. Conflicted, he lost when he killed a man but is trying to be the changed man he thought he was becoming. These men just need money, and he shouldn't be so hard on them. Gerald had done much worse.
Last edited January 7, 2020 2:02 pm
Jan 7, 2020 2:09 pm
The man looks at his dead companion, wipes his nose, and says, "You want us to dig up Ms. Hapgood now?"
Jan 7, 2020 5:21 pm
"That is not what we said at all." Cecily would slap him, if she knew he wasn't already terrified.
Jan 7, 2020 5:57 pm
"Well if you're tired from running you could always just wrap up your associate so that he may given penance for his sins in life with his body in his death." Ataan states and blinks, "Wait this madman wants you to dig up his dead wife? Or mother..." Ataan states his voice trailing off emotions running across his face in quick transition ending at confusion and slight disgust.
Jan 7, 2020 7:04 pm
"Wah, or no, we're going to bring her in that, as it's got her name on it," he points at the darkness. It appears they dropped a coffin that they were going to haul the corpse in.

(A later investigation will reveal that the coffin has a brass plaque engraved with the name "Martha Hapgood.")
Jan 7, 2020 7:23 pm
Ataan massages the bridge of his nose, "Sigh, anyone want to guess why one needs freshly dead young woman and then Ms. Hapgood..." he asks quietly looking from the graverobbers to the group.
Jan 7, 2020 7:46 pm
Gerald scratches the top of his head. Hmm. Maybe the good doctor is experimenting on or practicing something that needs the bodies fresh before they start to decay?
Last edited January 7, 2020 7:47 pm
Jan 7, 2020 8:33 pm
"If it's a noble cause and only that I would agree but if you need to steal bodies you don't have permission and the work you do is likely not against human practices... plus the need for a dead love one." Ataan state moving to rub one of his eyes with the heel of one hand, "It's probably not what the medical field would consider reasonable. Possibly in the line of the last time we were 'near' a graveyard I'm under the impression this won't be the normal use of a dead body."
Jan 8, 2020 12:18 am
Cecily looks between her companions with a look of disbelief. "I think we're about to stumble upon our necromancer."
Jan 8, 2020 1:41 am
Where to? Chez Hapgood or the local tavern for further investigation.
Jan 8, 2020 11:22 pm
"We certainly won't answer these questions here in the cemetery." He then turns back to the arrested gravedigger, "Why don't you place your dead companion in the casket here? I'd prefer not to needlessly desecrate any graves," he adds, motioning back at the cemetery.
Jan 9, 2020 1:56 pm
"I guess we're off to the Hapgood residence..."
Jan 9, 2020 2:10 pm
Yes let's get going. Gerald was glad to leave this place and find some answers.
Jan 9, 2020 2:19 pm
After retrieving the empty coffin, he townsfolk cum grave robbers load their companion into the coffin. You march them like a chain gang to the Hapgood residence. It soon comes into view, by way of a few lights on inside.

What's the plan when you get there?
Jan 9, 2020 2:37 pm
"So what should a fitting punishment be? How many bodies have you dug up? Since you were paid helping the grave diggers bury that many bodies I think should be a start. We'll look for you in the tavern when we're done here afterwards. Anyone have any objections? Well have some things to discuss with the 'Doctor' so I'm guessing we'll be sticking around."
Jan 15, 2020 2:49 am
"Just three," the criminal unhappily admits.

What's your plan?
Jan 15, 2020 3:05 am
JUST THREE? Do you hear yourself? Like it's a common every day occurrence to dig up bodies?

Gerald hears his incredulous self and wonders if it's warranted. Again he has to tell himself....there could be reasons. Why not reserve judgement until we go calling on the good doctor.

To Ataan Gerald replies, No I have no objections.
Jan 15, 2020 3:40 am
Cecily contemplates in silence, and suddenly a very daring gambit emerges. "Wait, why not use these men while we have the chance? I'd wager they, or perhaps one of the more ah... combative men could fit inside and give the doctor a surprise of sorts."
Jan 15, 2020 4:02 am
Oh! That's a devilishly good idea, Cecily!
Jan 15, 2020 11:50 pm
"For what reason? We just want an audience with the wicked doctor. If we show up with a coffin in-tow, I would think he'd present himself." Then, in order to make sure he's not misunderstanding the situation, Praise God asks the chain-gang, "Do you not meet with the doctor yourselves?"
Jan 16, 2020 12:46 am
They explain that they are expected to bring the coffin tonight to his back door, knock discretely, and he'll let them in where they can leave it in his workroom.
Jan 16, 2020 4:10 am
Cecily gives him a bewildered look, unsure what exactly he's trying to relay. "If someone is in the coffin, they may overhear or witness some of his machinations he no doubt participates in. Or we bring it to him and he decides to fight, the element of surprise can quickly turn the odds to our favor."
OOC:
If there is any actual confusion lemme know.
Jan 16, 2020 4:47 pm
Praise God shrugs at the suggestion and offers himself up as the decoy body.
Jan 16, 2020 4:51 pm
Praise God we need you unfettered, meaning we can't have you stuck in a box. I say we use one of these men who are only dying to help.

Isn't that right fellas?
Jan 16, 2020 6:14 pm
"That's under the assumption they'll keep it together when in the coffin..."
Jan 16, 2020 6:30 pm
One of them looks nonplussed but the other two look horrified at that prospect. Unfortunately, the nonplussed one hadn't said much, so you're not sure how cooperative they are.
Jan 16, 2020 8:37 pm
I think someone should persuade the quiet one to be co-operative. Failing that I suppose one of us could jump in but not I! I am somewhat claustrophobic I hate to admit. Gerald is embarrassed and his face becomes a little flushed.
OOC:
Gerald does not have the persuasion skill.
Jan 16, 2020 8:54 pm
"Two of us will have to help you carry the coffin, which one of you wants to not do that since I weigh more than you. You seem like the type that won't scream out in fright easily." Ataan states looking to the nonplussed member of the reformers.
Jan 17, 2020 12:47 am
The man grunts. "I will go in. You've got all the guns, I ain't arguing."
Jan 17, 2020 1:17 pm
Attan nods, "This guy gets it... not our intention really but lets go with that."
Jan 17, 2020 3:29 pm
Praise God breathes a sigh of relief that he won't be the one trapped inside that thing.
Jan 21, 2020 10:27 pm
To recap, your plan is to put a graverobber into the coffin, carry said coffin to the manor, go to the back door that they were told to use, and go from there?

If so, let's pick up there.
Jan 21, 2020 10:39 pm
Ok, get in, Gerald says to the grunting grave digger. Not a sound from you, understand?
Jan 22, 2020 2:28 am
OOC:
Sounds like a plan!
Jan 22, 2020 2:20 pm
You carry the empty coffin for a few hundred yards. The sacrifice then points out when he should get in, just out of sight of the Hapgood residence. He climbs in, his breath racing with panic as the lid closes, but he manages to stay put.

You carry the coffin under cover of fairly complete darkness down the road and into their property, around the back and to the door. Save for a sliver of light peeking through curtains at the back of the house, the place is in darkness.

Knocking elicits no response.
Jan 22, 2020 3:14 pm
Ataan has them put down the coffin as he goes to try the door handle himself in an attempt to try and open it and looking around to see if anyone's close by to the door as he does so.
Jan 22, 2020 3:16 pm
The door is locked but not very solid. You appear to be unobserved.
Jan 22, 2020 3:22 pm
Lets try one more time. If no one answers, we break in!

Gerald pounds on the door loudly and waits, hand by his wheelock just in case.
Jan 22, 2020 4:33 pm
There is still no response.

You could brute force the door, or try Lockpicking if anyone is so skilled.
Jan 22, 2020 4:53 pm
"Did you all hear someone call for help or moan?" Ataan states backing up unbuttoning his jacket before attempting to literally kick down the door.
OOC:
Must have aimed too low...
Last edited January 22, 2020 4:53 pm

Rolls

Door Kicking - (1d6, RA)

(3) = 3

Wild - (1d6, RA)

(2) = 2

Jan 22, 2020 5:17 pm
Here let me try!

Rolls

Kick that sucker - (1d8, RA)

(2) = 2

wild - (1d6, RA)

(4) = 4

Jan 22, 2020 5:48 pm
The door snashes open after the second kick.

On entering, you are immediately assaulted by the powerful stench of death and rose water perfume mixed together in some unholy union of life masking death. Suddenly, the wooden door to the back room crashes open and a crazed middle-aged man staggers through, a look of maniacal joy across his face. "They thought me mad!" he cries. "They said I was mad to try and heal her after her accident, but I proved them wrong! The book, the book holds the key! I have conquered death! My wife has returned to me!"

Hapgood’s speech is cut short as an arm, living yet putrid and decayed, reaches from the back room and grabs Hapgood, dragging him off his feet. The door to the room slams closed, and from within the heroes hear Hapgood’s anguished cries."My darling wife!" he cries. "It is I, John. I have brought you back, back to my side. What are you doing? No, no! Arrrrgh!"

Everything goes silent.
Jan 22, 2020 7:13 pm
What depraved lunacy is afoot here? Gerald cries after seeing Hapgood dragged into the other room.
Shall we follow? I suppose we should let our casket prisoner out before we do so.
Jan 22, 2020 8:41 pm
"Right well time to go smack apossessed body around... Grave Robbers I suggest you go back and let the grave diggers and local authorities know of these acts." Ataan states with a curt nod pulling out his weaponry
Jan 22, 2020 9:21 pm
Praise God slides his rapier and main gauche from their sheaths and mutters to himself, "Spread your protection over us, oh Lord, that those who love your name may rejoice in you." He tightens his grip on his hilt and steps toward the door.
Jan 22, 2020 10:23 pm
No Ataan, I think they should stay and help fight whatever it is we may find behind that door!

Gerald draws his weapon.
Jan 23, 2020 5:03 am
OOC:
I hope this guys survives, I like his antics.
Cecily is simply dumbfounded by what she just witnessed, repeatedly thinking this must be some sort of lucid dream. Alas she cannot wake up, and must decide on a course of action. "...I almost want to wait a minute, just to observe what happens. But fine."
Jan 23, 2020 5:07 am
You hear a thump from the back room.
Jan 23, 2020 11:17 pm
Ataan attempts to kick another door open.
Jan 23, 2020 11:31 pm
Inside the room, John Hapgood is dead, his neck broken, with a look of stunned disbelief forever etched on his pale face. A monster is standing there, turns at the sound of the door crashing open, and prepares to attack with mindless resolve.

The monster is an abomination, made from parts of different female corpses crudely stitched together. Its eyes, though human, burn with an infernal radiance.

Everybody not named Cecily acts before the monster

Qralloq sent a note to Qralloq

Deck Draws

Ataan, Cecily, Gerard, Praise, Monster
9 of Clubs
6 of Spades
Ace of Hearts
King of Spades
7 of Diamonds
Jan 24, 2020 2:27 am
OOC:
Ewwwwww
Gerald takes a minute to take in the disgusting scene, the poor doctor, and the mish-mash of body parts in the form of something approximating a human. Thinking his life might be in danger, he shoots at the thing, glad that he had the foresight to draw his pistol at the door.

Rolls

Shoot it kill it - (1d10, RA)

(7) = 7

Wild - (1d6, RA)

(3) = 3

DMG - (2d6+1, RA)

(14) + 1 = 6

Jan 24, 2020 2:52 am
The abomination takes the bullet shot stoicly but it does no real harm to it.
OOC:
Success but damage less than Toughness 10
Jan 26, 2020 1:44 pm
Ataan, Gerald, and Praise God are up, in whatever order you pay is fine.
Jan 27, 2020 1:51 pm
"My apologies you'll all be able to sleep again soon I hope."

Rolls

Fighting Attempt - (1d4, RA)

(3) = 3

Wild die - (1d6, RA)

(64) = 10

If Parry is 10 or less Else 0 damage - (1d6, 1d4, RA)

1d6 : (61) = 7

1d4 : (41) = 5

Jan 27, 2020 2:09 pm
Ataan gets close and stabs with his main gauche, doing a bit of damage to the surprisingly hardy stitched together atrocity.
OOC:
Parry 7 - success; Toughness 10 - success; Creature is Shaken
Getting close the horror of the creature threatens to overwhelm your senses. Gerald and Ataan, and anyone else who focuses on it long enough to attack it, should make a Spirit test to resist becoming Shaken.
Jan 27, 2020 3:51 pm
OOC:
Should I do it at the end of my turn or the begining of my next turn?
Jan 27, 2020 6:56 pm
OOC:
Do it now. You don't want to be hit when Shaken, heh
Jan 27, 2020 7:59 pm
OOC:
Rolls...

Rolls

Spirit Check - (1d8, RA)

(6) = 6

Wild - (1d6, RA)

(4) = 4

Jan 29, 2020 3:26 pm
Praise God lunges at the monstrosity with his rapier.

Rolls

Fighting + Florentine edge - (1d8+1)

(5) + 1 = 6

Wild Die - (1d6)

(5) = 5

Jan 29, 2020 3:31 pm
OOC:
Also +1 from Gangup no since Ataan is already there.
Jan 29, 2020 5:26 pm
A rolled 7 (with the gangup bonus) equals the fiends Parry of 7. That's a success. Roll damage, please.
Qralloq sent a note to Qralloq
Feb 1, 2020 2:44 am
OOC:
Rolling for PG. A rapier or main gauche does STR+d4
Praise God hits the creature but fails to do any crucial damage.

Rolls

Damage - (1d6, 1d4, RA)

1d6 : (4) = 4

1d4 : (2) = 2

Spirit to overcome Shaken - (1d4+2, 1d6+2, RA)

1d4+2 : (41) + 2 = 7

1d6+2 : (61) + 2 = 9

Feb 1, 2020 2:49 am
The stitched together corpse woman slashes with her claws, retaliating at the last blade that knicked her.

Her attack does not beat Praise God's Parry of 7, so she misses.

Cecily is up! Then Action Cards for a new round.

Rolls

Fighting, wild - (1d10, 1d6, RA)

1d10 : (6) = 6

1d6 : (3) = 3

Feb 1, 2020 4:21 am
"Where have you flowers gone my dear?" Cecily mutters during the brawl, evidently skewing her priorities. Spotting an opportunity to help Cecily grasps the grip Praise God's sword even as he still holds the blade, making the tip red hot! Praise might also feel a mild burning sensation in his hand. "They shall be but dust soon."
OOC:
Okay my brain is not operating right now is this a success? if so +2 damage to Praise God. If not I am sorry.
Last edited February 1, 2020 4:22 am

Rolls

Smite - (1d10-1, 1d6, RA)

1d10-1 : (5) - 1 = 4

1d6 : (1) = 1

WHERE is my wild die reroll.. - (1d6, RA)

(5) = 5

Feb 1, 2020 4:25 am
Praise God's rapier now does +2 damage.

Ataan is up, then the monster.

Deck Draws

Ataan, Cecily, Gerard, Praise, Monster
Queen of Diamonds
2 of Diamonds
8 of Diamonds
7 of Clubs
9 of Hearts
Feb 2, 2020 12:09 am
Qralloq says:
Praise God's rapier now does +2 damage.
OOC:
That's fuckin' teamwork!
Feb 2, 2020 11:25 am
"I don't think she can hold them due to motor function." Ataan offers attempting another pierce.

Rolls

Wild attack wit gangup - (1d4+3, RA)

(3) + 3 = 6

Wild die - (1d6+3, RA)

(5) + 3 = 8

Wild attack damage - (1d4+2, 1d6, RA)

1d4+2 : (41) + 2 = 7

1d6 : (4) = 4

Feb 2, 2020 2:02 pm
Ataan hits, but staggering the creature.
OOC:
OOC:
8 beats Parry of 7, 11 damage beats Toughness of 10, Shaken
It tries to regain its composure.. (I rolled two 4s, which is a success without a raise, but this consumes its action.)

Cecily, Gerard, Praise God are all up.
Feb 2, 2020 2:41 pm
Well the bullets didn't work. Time for the dagger approach, Gerald thinks.

Gerald shoves the knife into the abomination while its struggling from Ataan's hit.

Rolls

Fighting Dagger - (1d6, RA)

(5) = 5

Damage - (1d6, 1d4, RA)

1d6 : (3) = 3

1d4 : (44443) = 19

Feb 2, 2020 2:45 pm
The 5 on its own misses, but you do have a Wild Die to roll, as well.
Feb 2, 2020 3:43 pm
OOC:
oops forgot it
OOC:
not funny
Last edited February 2, 2020 3:43 pm

Rolls

forgotten wild roll - (1d6, RA)

(1) = 1

Feb 3, 2020 4:53 am
OOC:
If its melee would there be a +2 from the other two people poking creepy dead bits centipede lady?
Feb 3, 2020 2:27 pm
Yes, you're right. The gang up bonus turns that 5 into a 7, which hits. Damage of 19 is a success with 2 raises, so Shaken again and 2 Wounds.
Feb 4, 2020 2:51 am
"Yes, like that." Cecily mutters, prostrating herself against the floor as her fingernails scrape against it. The wood begins to crack and splint, reforming and growing into gnarly branches which surround the bride.
OOC:
Sure hope these floors are wooden for consistency's sake. Casting entangle on this sucker for -2 to pace/agility/strength, assuming it's size is still only at most +3
Last edited February 4, 2020 2:53 am

Rolls

Entangle - (1d10-2, RA)

(6) - 2 = 4

Wild Die - (1d6, RA)

(5) = 5

Feb 5, 2020 2:06 pm
Gerald hacks away with his knife again.

Rolls

fighting knife+ gangup - (1d6+2, RA)

(1) + 2 = 3

wild - (1d6+2, RA)

(1) + 2 = 3

Feb 5, 2020 2:29 pm
Cecily ensnares the creature.

It's Geralds turn yet so we'll ignore the double 1s.

Pg is up.
Feb 5, 2020 11:24 pm
Praise God again stabs at the beastly bride with his rapier.

Rolls

Fighting + Florentine edge + gangup - (1d8+2, RA)

(4) + 2 = 6

Wild Die - (1d6, RA)

(62) = 8

Feb 6, 2020 2:42 am
Praise God strikes! Roll normal damage but with that +2.
Feb 6, 2020 4:39 pm
OOC:
Damage roll

Rolls

Rapier roll +2 gangup - (1d6+2, 1d4, RA)

1d6+2 : (4) + 2 = 6

1d4 : (41) = 5

Feb 6, 2020 5:54 pm
Damage of 11 is a success with no raises, so as it is already Shaken, that's 1 Wound, bringing it to 3.

Qralloq sent a note to Qralloq
Looks like you all go before the Living Dead Girl. Next Wound does it!

Deck Draws

Ataan, Cecily, Gerard, Praise, Monster
King of Diamonds
Queen of Hearts
10 of Hearts
8 of Hearts
6 of Hearts
Feb 6, 2020 7:16 pm
"Again my apologies." Ataan states before attacking with uncivilized brutality.

Rolls

Wild attack w/gang up - (1d4+4, RA)

(42) + 4 = 10

Wild die - (1d6+4, RA)

(3) + 4 = 7

Wild Damage - (1d6+2, 1d4, RA)

1d6+2 : (3) + 2 = 5

1d4 : (1) = 1

Feb 6, 2020 8:44 pm
Gerald follows in Ataan's foot steps. It seems to have worked for him. He gets his adrenaline in gear with a loud bellow and attacks.

Rolls

Wild attack w/gang up - (1d6+4, RA)

(2) + 4 = 6

Wil die - (1d6+4, RA)

(5) + 4 = 9

Damage - (1d6+2, RA)

(1) + 2 = 3

Feb 8, 2020 3:04 pm
That hit strikes. The weapon damage for your dagger is Str+d4, so roll 1d8,1d4 please
Feb 9, 2020 4:17 am
rollin...

Rolls

1d8 [ RA ]

(86) = 14

1d4 [ RA ]

(43) = 7

Feb 9, 2020 5:38 am
Gerald skewers the being deep in the back, cutting the spine. It falls to the ground instantly returned to its proper corpse like state.

Combat is over
Feb 10, 2020 1:40 pm
Still breathing heavy Ataan looks around looking around, "Look for books and notes..." he states with a frown. On one hand he could figure out why the man would do this... he thought it odd he was driven to such a desperate point he forgot to ask if he should.
Feb 10, 2020 2:14 pm
In the workspace, you find John Hapgood, recently dead as you likely intuited. His workshop is a macabre assortment of carefully arranged jars, ungents, chemicals, and tools of dubious purpose. A great tome sits upon a podium. You do find his experiment journal, which starts as a diary and leads to his various attempts, successes and failures.
Quote:
Hapgood's History

John Hapgood’s wife was killed in a tragic accident almost a year ago, crushed beneath the wheels of a carriage, her limbs shattered, her internal organs pulverized. So great was his love for her, that Hapgood’s mind snapped.

Preserving her remains in vinegar, Hapgood scoured the country for a way to bring her back, consulting priests and medical men. All agreed that he was insane. As his quest turned from noble goal to insanity, Hapgood was contacted by a scholar who had heard of his plight. For the princely sum of £500 he sold Hapgood a book which contained within it the secret of life.

Hapgood earnestly studied the book, his already unhinged mind not balking at what grisly acts and perversions of medicine and God’s Work he would have to commit in order to bring life back to his wife. After several failed attempts, the casting worked, though it was not his beloved wife’s soul which inhabited the tortured body he had so lovingly made her.
Feb 10, 2020 5:06 pm
"Well considering the situation I honestly would have preferred if he had been just scammed out of his savings... Anyone find out the name of the sending of the book?" Ataan states with a frown looking in the direction of the town they just came from.

If there's people following a righteous path I guess is stands to reasons there are some leading others to damnation... Ataan fathoms with a pensive look on his face as he continues to search around.
Feb 10, 2020 5:47 pm
Gerald flips through the journal wondering whose soul it was then.
Feb 10, 2020 6:19 pm
"Are you talking to yourself Ataan?" Cecily muses into the open air, softly examining this twice-dead woman.
OOC:
Any rolls to glean something of value?
Feb 13, 2020 3:40 am
You could pilfer a fair amount of loot if petty crime is your goal. I would remind you that it is known by the graverobbers that you were here, and theft would be a very serious crime.

However, if you want to steal small valuables that may not be noticed as missing, roll Notice.
Feb 13, 2020 3:46 am
In his previous life, Gerald would have helped himself to some of the shineys. But this was his new life, and so he resisted the temptation.
Feb 13, 2020 5:42 am
OOC:
The roll was more to examine what had happened to the women, in the hopes we could get some more clues lol.
Feb 13, 2020 2:33 pm
"Someone doesn't get people to start to do this sort of thing without a reason, if the reason is because they want to get more mentally disturbed people releasing 'loved' ones like this... well dark times ahead."
OOC:
I do think taking the book would be okay we're going to the magistrates after this to tell on this guy.

Rolls

Notice w/Investigator - (1d6+2, RA)

(1) + 2 = 3

Wild - (1d6+2, RA)

(63) + 2 = 11

Feb 13, 2020 3:05 pm
Ataan finds that most of the finery in the home is missing. The only thing remaining of real value is the dead wife's jewelry and personal affects. There are a few paintings missing from the walls (a faint outline where they were), and other such. Rifling through his effects you'll find receipts for purchases of chemicals and unguents and odd spices and powders. Clearly he had been liquidating his assets to pay for his horrific experiments. His purse contains a 100 quid.

The wife is a mismatch of pieces from several women, and the house smells like putrefying death and decay.

You gather all of the notes and easily portable chemicals, reagents and what not, basically everything that he used in his experiments, and stuff it into a sturdy bag.

Anything else you want to take beside the money and the evil stuff?
Feb 13, 2020 3:21 pm
Ataan makes an account of all valuables and how many women actually were used so graves can be used to identify them for reburial and reparations for the next of kin if any is left. "Well ladies, you've been done a great injustice as we may not be able to rectify things... we'll do our best to assist in you once again finding peace." he states aloud frowning and bowing and closing his eyes for a second looking to the monster and bodies found.

Once done he'll look to the others grabbing the book and bag having put away his weapons.
Feb 13, 2020 4:43 pm
I think we should make sure to take the receipts too if they have the names of the chemicals he bought on them.
Gerald continues to looks around for anything that might be useful.
OOC:
Throwing in a notice roll just in case anything might be missed?

Rolls

Notice +2 alertness edge - (1d6+2, RA)

(4) + 2 = 6

wild - (1d6, RA)

(5) = 5

Feb 13, 2020 9:52 pm
"Perhaps the grave-robbers could give us a list of their victims, so that we could bury the extremities in their proper graves."
Feb 14, 2020 6:16 am
Cecily contemplates the situation. "This research, ultimately it has led to..." She stares at the disturbing conglomeration. "...limited success. These notes are likely to get one burned at the stake, at least as far as the Catholics are concerned."
Feb 14, 2020 1:17 pm
You make another pass through the house and you're fairly certain you've eliminated the evidence of the experiments, other than the body. You recall one of the graverobbers saying they had previously dug up three women, with tonight to be the fourth.
Feb 22, 2020 2:44 pm
Cambridge

A few days following the events in the small town, you arrive in Cambridge. Praise God unfailingly leads you to Christ's College where he is recognized and greeted. You find yourselves invited to dine with the puritan Master Edmund Barwell , who has been Master for about twenty years.

After refreshing yourselves, you arrive at a private dinner in his residence. After introductions and a prayer, the food is served by freshmen and he greets Praise God. "Mister Waterston, it is good of thou to return to us for any reason. But I sense from thy grim countenance that it is not mere nostalgia that steered thine company to us. What bringest thou?"
Feb 24, 2020 8:05 pm
OOC:
For the record I am letting Praise God speak first, makes the most sense given our situation.
Feb 24, 2020 8:16 pm
OOC:
Was thinking the same....
Mar 2, 2020 1:44 pm
OOC:
In the absence of Praise God shaking for himself at this moment, what would you have Praise God say to him? You may have discussed it in the way. Or, what are your goals from the college?
Mar 2, 2020 1:51 pm
"Well Sir thank you for your hospitality and these are dark times, we're curious if the college may have some literature that might provide knowledge and a bit of enlightenment in our search. We've seen things turning for the worst these past few weeks." Ataan offers up in the long silent pause while looking to the others.
Mar 2, 2020 2:10 pm
"We hear many things from parishioners, travelers, and from other Christian bastions against the darkness. What is the nature of your search, and perhaps we may help?"
Mar 2, 2020 3:04 pm
"We're seeking a gem of power hidden in the Old World to battle a great evil, Satan, the World Serpent, the Feathered Serpent, Apep, or Mother of Evil... it has many names depending on where you are in the world... To do that we have to figure out where it is to go find it."
Mar 2, 2020 4:49 pm
He nods. "Interesting... This is important work. I can't tell you much, but here's what I propose.."
OOC:
Rather than RP this, should we montage it and send you on?
Mar 2, 2020 6:38 pm
OOC:
I'm in favor of whatever pushes the story forward. Ataan has no qualms listening to himself talk though...
Mar 2, 2020 8:13 pm
OOC:
Lol....But sure I am ok with pushing on...
Mar 2, 2020 9:17 pm
I hate proposals...
OOC:
Either works for me!

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