Part 3: Investigating the Moathouse Ruins

Nov 23, 2020 6:15 pm
Official XP and Time Tracker

The Story So Far:
After arriving in the village of Hommlet, the party made good on the job they had been tasked with, that being to escort a cart full of wagon wheels from Verbobonc to the town’s blacksmith. After receiving the agreed upon payment for completion, two of the party decided to leave and went their own way, while the others opted to remain in the village in search of work or adventure.
Throughout the course of the day they took some time to familiarize themselves with some of the village’s locations, met some of the population, spent some coin resupplying their provisions, gained some new companions, and quickly found themselves in the middle of a confrontation between a group of six ruffians causing trouble at the tavern and the innkeeper himself, the end result being that the ruffians were run out of the tavern, and two of the troublemakers returned in the evening to set fire to the inn’s stables and were then killed by slings and spells cast forth by the party.
Predicting this skirmish is only a small taste of more trouble to come, and suspecting the ruffians are part of a group of bandits that have been rumored to be giving trouble to travelers and locals on the outskirts of the village, the party has decided to investigate. And thus we find the party standing together outside the stables of The Welcome Wench organizing their gear and finishing the readying of their mounts.



It's about 10am on Day three since you departed Verbobonc. The the sky is clear and the air is still, though it's a little on the chilly side this fall morning; about 45°F, not quite cold, but enough that you prefer to stay moving to keep warm.
Though the party has been given instructions to visit Brother Smythe before setting out on the east road out of town where the rest of the men had gone yesterday, when the druid’s assistant notices you getting your gear ready he sets down his work of making horseshoes and begins walking over to the party. You see that he is bringing the confiscated horse that was given to him by Ostler.
"Well met an’ good mornin’ friends," Brother Smythe says. "I was hopin’ t’ catch up with ye before ye set out today, as I ‘ave some information for you, which yer sure to find useful. Bein’ a longtime practicer an’ assistant to th’ druid o’ th’ grove, I ‘ave some skill in the magics of the old faith, many o’ th’ spells giving me aid in working with the animals brought to me for shoein’ and the like.
"I took some time las’ night to use these talents to speak wi’ this horse Ostler brought to me, the very one taken from one o’ th’ men that was killed yesterday after settin’ fire to th’ inn’s stables. The Speak wi’ Animals magics only gives me a short time to converse with a beast of this nature, maybe ‘alf a minute or so, and t’ be honest, I wasn’t sure if it was going to respond t’ me wi’ hostilities, gratefulness for bein’ rescued, or what, but the beast seemed genuinely disinterested one way or th’ other, and was willing to furnish me with the answers I requested. With th’ limited amount o’ time my spell allowed me I asked it where it come from.
"The horse says it came from a large building, crumbling in places, only a short distance from here. This can only mean it come from that cursed Moathouse east o’ town, between ‘ere and the village o’ Nulb.

You all notice Elmer shift uneasily, and spit on the ground.
"I then asked the horse if it would carry a rider back to where it come from. The horse says it will do its best.
"Provided one o’ you ride th’ horse, it will guide you to where it believes it to ‘ave come from yesterday, and I get no sense that it intends to deceive yeh or turn against yeh. That should save yeh some time, rather than wanderin' about lookin' for hoofprints and other clues. That said, I ‘ave no doubt it come from the old and broken moathouse, a place with an ugly past and cursed by the villagers who live here, as Elmer 'ere can attest to..."

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Nov 23, 2020 10:42 pm
"I'll ride the horse and keep Panther on a stringer until we get there. I can be as light as a feather when I need to be so it may not even notice it's being ridden. Guess I'll have to talk to it to let it know I'm there. Did this horse tell you its name?" Angel pats the bandit horse on the neck as he speaks to Smyth.
Last edited November 23, 2020 10:43 pm
Nov 23, 2020 11:06 pm
Thank you Angel, and thank you Brother Smythe. Your efforts have gone above and beyond your duties and we are grateful for it.
Nov 23, 2020 11:21 pm
"I didn't ask, for my time was limited," says Brother Smythe to Angel. "Though communicatin' with animals is part 'speakin' an' part th' conveyance of thoughts an' emotions, an' yeh sometimes get a sense of what it feels outside of, or in tandem wi' the words spoken. I did not get a sense that this horse 'ad a sense of its own identity, or of knowing itself. Along wi' its indifference to who was possessin' it, I get th' sense that the beast was never loved nor abused, but merely treated as a means to ends. Much th' way one would use a shovel or a hammer. The horse just was treated as just an object o' utilitarian purpose. And for it, a name would serve as useful as th' one yeh give th' next arrow yeh loose."

KCC

Nov 24, 2020 12:07 am
While the party is learning the location of the bandits, Gilly steps forward. While listening to Brother Smythe she puts out her hand and scratches the new horse under its chin.

When there’s a natural lull in the conversation:
"And how can I... ehhh... we learn how to speak to horses? In case we need directions or ask if it’s hungry or something?"
Nov 24, 2020 1:30 am
Ahem! "It shouldn't matter what the name is, unless the horse speaks the common tongue. I'm sure it would respond to any number of names or insults, given the tone of voice. Besides, it would seem strange for these men of baser instinct to humanize an animal in such a way." Eltrezar looks down his nose (which itself shows a history of slight alcoholism) at the Halfling, seemingly unimpressed with her commentary. Looking back at Brother Smythe, he says, "The use of your magicks has helped us greatly. You have saved us much time in exploring the landscape searching for whatever den these ne'r-do-wells may have crawled from. I should like to have a discussion with you as to the nature of your own abilities when this is all well and over, but now is not the time. Good day, ser."

With this, Eltrezar the Medium begins preparing his own new branded steed, having opted to leave the irascible Isolde at the stables where she would indubitably be safer.
Nov 24, 2020 1:36 am
Eltrezar is right, we must be on our way, but thank you again for your help Brother Smythe.

Alice clicks at her horse and brings him out of the smith's yard and onto the road headed East.

KCC

Nov 24, 2020 1:57 am
When Gilly is quite sure that Eltrezer isn’t looking, she scrunches up her face and mockingly mimics his speech behind his back.

When he turns around, Gilly stops and says to him.

"Speakin’ of names. I think I’ve found the right one for you."

Not sure it’d be polite to say in front of Sister Alice.
Last edited November 24, 2020 1:57 am
Nov 24, 2020 2:13 am
Respect for one's elders shows character Gilly

Alice chides as the group canters out of the smithe.
Nov 24, 2020 7:22 am
Angel speaks softly to the new horse and mounts up as soon as he's fashioned a line to Panther. "I think we'll just call you Buddy. How's that sound?" He starts the horse walking slowly forward toward the east road.
Nov 24, 2020 4:40 pm
The wizard is clearly taken aback by this impudence! His eyes widen and he scoffs, muttering to himself as he rides away in the direction of Angel.

"The nerve of that child, it is no wonder I have spent so little time with these Halflings... grumble grumble grumble..."
Nov 24, 2020 6:56 pm
https://i.imgur.com/bKZdsWz.jpg
The party sets out along the east road. Having spent the large part of the day before exploring various locations to the north and south of the village center, the buildings along the east road are only seen for the first time. These buildings include a barn-like house with a wheel nailed to a post, a walled manor house, a large new building with a sign out front displaying a saw and hammer, a well-crafted stone house, and finally on the right side of the road double feildstone walls filled with earth are being constructed to surround two hills. Upon the first hill stands a tall, two-storied tower. Upon the second hill, about 100 feet further east, the beginnings of a smallish castle is being built by laborers. Across the road from the construction site some dozen tents and wattle huts edge a copse of trees, presumably acting as temporary shelter for the workers employed to build the castle.

Finally, after traveling about 200-300 yards from city center, the party arrives at what could be considered the eastern edge of town. The main road continues east, though at this point Angel’s horse, whom he’s given the name of "Buddy", stops at an overgrown track branching off in the direction of the northeast. The horse stops and seems to contemplate for a moment, as if unsure which direction to go, sniffs at the ground and nearby foliage encroaching on the track, and finally turns to continue along the overgrown track leading, as Brother Smythe predicted, to the Moathouse Ruins.

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A scrub of thorns, thistles, weeds, and shrubs grows thickly along the edge of the track which leads to the ruins. Even the track is mostly overgrown and cluttered with fallen branches and trees. Here and there it is washed out, in other places a mire.
Some game evidently still follows the pathway, however, for after a mile or so faint traces can be seen. But even considering this, going is slow, and it takes over an hour to reach the place on horseback, or two to trudge along on foot. Considerable hacking and clearing is necessary to make the way passable, so double the time required for the first trip. After two miles, as the track turns more northerly, the land begins to sink and become boggy. Tall marsh plants grow thickly where cattails and tamaracks do not. Off to the left can be seen the jagged silhouette of the moathouse.
A side path, banked high to cross over the wetland to either side, just north to the entrance of the ruin. The track here is only about 15 feet wide or so, with crumbling embankments making travel near the edge dangerous. The bogs stink. The vegetation appears dense and prolific, but somehow sickly and unhealthy, creepers and vines throwing their strangling loops over the skeletons of dead saplings and living bushes alike. The rushes and cattails rustle and bend even to a slight zephyr, and weird birdcalls, croakings, and other unwholesome sounds come faintly across the fen.
https://www.creightonbroadhurst.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/Moathouse.jpg
Nov 24, 2020 8:20 pm
Alice holds up a fist to stop the column as soon as she catches sight of the moathouse. She cautious everyone in hushed tones.

Hold here! We know there are more of those thugs but not how many. They likely have this place on guard so the front gate may not be the best bet. Angel and Gilly, how would feel about scouting the perimeter from the tree line?
Nov 24, 2020 10:38 pm
OOC:
I would point out that you guys left around 10am.
It usually takes an hour to get out here by horseback, but on your first excursion it takes twice that, due to having to stop and bushwack from time-to-time. So it's currently about noon. A thief's two main stealth abilities are Hide in Shadows, and Move Silently. Because it's high noon, shadows are not super easy to come by right now, and the skill requires remaining motionless. Move Silently may work provided no guards are looking in Angel's direction.
On the other hand, halflings are notoriously good at using their natural terrain to mask their movements and positions, regardless lighting or time of day. As long as you're outdoors, Gilly is your best bet to creep around unnoticed.
Angel could be of use, depending on how he decides to do this, but a task like this seems made for a halfling's wheelhouse, so if avoiding detection is your primary concern, the thief is a bit of a gamble, but the halfling is almost a sure bet.
Nov 24, 2020 11:32 pm
Angel nods and dismounts leaving the reins in the Sister's hands. Noting the position of the sun he realizes that he can't move too much or get too close. Before moving off he strings his new bow and retests its draw. He then will carefully find a spot that provides decent cover, allows a view of the ruins and a good vantage point from which to use his bow.

KCC

Nov 25, 2020 12:25 am
Gilly dismounts from her pony, and begins to pack some things. Her bow, and short sword. She leaves her shield for the time being.

Phew! Here we go. Here we go. Don’t get caught!

"Okay, Timber. Now you be quiet. I’ll be back soon!’ she scratches Timber and ruffles his mane.

She walks up the line, to Alice and the others. She’s tiny now, to those atop horseback. Not wanting to shout or raise her voice too loud, she simply nods, puts a finger to her lip:

shhhhh...

And she makes a set of hand gestures that you might guess mean "Going around. Be back soon. Be quiet."

She salutes and heads off into the bush!
OOC:
The rules tell me I have a 90% chance to hide in bush or undergrowth. So I shall roll a d100.
Last edited November 25, 2020 2:33 am

Rolls

Hiding - (1d100)

(75) = 75

Nov 25, 2020 2:11 am
Kelric dismounts and ties the reigns to a nearby tree. Hearing Alice, Kelric speaks up I can scout ahead if needed as well. Kelric looks down and attempts to search for any game trails that would encircle the ruins.
OOC:
Do I roll for this
Nov 25, 2020 4:44 am
Eltrezar dismounts his horse, and crouches down to stay out of sight. It is a foolish wizard who reveals his location by the tip of his hat! He grumbles to himself, but otherwise allows Sister Alice to direct the group. "...and always sending the Halflings in to play burglar, just like my fellow wizard. This never ends well, and by the hair of my beard this will not end well..." He seems content being his crotchety self, but keeps a keen eye out, and his hand is held in a peculiar way.
Nov 25, 2020 5:15 am
Alice dismounts and ties up her horse as well, crouching alongside Eltrezar in the overgrowth.

No one can find a halfling that doesn't want to be found sir, at least that's what I know of their kind.

Alice draws her sling and readies a stone in case of a charge from the gate.

KCC

Nov 25, 2020 10:24 am
Gilly moves through the undergrowth. Stepping over this bramble, and under that hanging of thorns. She has her hood from her cloak pulled up over her hair, to ensure it won’t catch in the rough.

She moves aside a branch, and can see back to the track she has travelled so far. She is a good distance away from the party, in stealth-through-undergrowth terms at least. She looks back, hoping that the others had the good sense to stay down. No pointy hats. No glint from heavy armor. Good.

She continues inward, and around.
Nov 26, 2020 1:12 am
OOC:
Is Gilly making a complete circuit of the moathouse, or is she just going to approach and see what can be seen from her angle of approach?

KCC

Nov 26, 2020 1:27 am
OOC:
Gilly will go (basing off the picture on page 1) around the right most side, and if she has an uninterrupted path around the fort, she will go all the way to the broken down rampart on the left side. And see what she can see on the perimeter.

If she has to cross water with no cover, then she wont risk it and see what she can see from the right side.

Nov 27, 2020 6:04 pm
https://i.imgur.com/OGrg8WP.png
Angel, Eltrezar, and Alice dismount their horses and find a place to hide among the foliage, watching the moathouse ruins and the gate for any sign of trouble. Everything seems still and quiet. Instead of feeling relief at this, the ominous silence is oppressive, leaving you with a sense of unease.

Kelric dismounts his horse as well, tying it to a tree, and searches the area for any game trails that might encircle the ruins, but the area is a complete marshland. Aside from the elevated road that leads to the gate everything to the sides below are cattails and reeds, steeped in foul-smelling sludge. Game quite likely passes through this area from time-to-time, but they leave no trail in the sludgy waters they traipse through and you get a sense their presence is of necessity and not a place they’re likely to frequent enough to make trails if it can be helped.

Coulson remains seated astride his horse watching. For a moment he sees Gilly creep off to the west, but as she passes behind a stand of cattails she seems to disappear, and the party is left to watch the ruins and wait for the halfling’s return.


Previously posted as a secret note:
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https://i.imgur.com/26WBL4K.png
A foul water from the old moat runs along the southwester corner, baring Gilly’s movement that way so she creeps west to explore around the right side corner of the moathouse. The southeast corner has crumbled, spilling into the moat some, and leaving a gaping hole that could be crawled through for a halfling or other person of small stature, though the sunlight cannot penetrate deep enough to determine what may be found within. Continuing the eastern wall, going north, you see another stream of water at the northeast corner of the mouthouse. You determine that the water encircling the moathouse originates from the northeast, encircles the ruins, and then flows away from the southwest corner.
The walls are crumbling in the northeast corner of the moathouse, and broken stones are scattered in the moat like stepping stones, allowing one to cross to another hole leading inside the ruins. Unlike the other hole though, this one is large enough for a normal person to pass through. A man seems standing at watch here, his face peering out of the shadows. He's armed with a crossbow.

As the halfling returns to report her findings to her companions she crosses around the southeast corner of the ruins where the smaller crumbling hole leads inside. She can see her companions near the gate. Coulson still astride his horse, and Kelric walking about looking for something. The remaining members of the party seem to be crouched down behind the cover of some reeds and foliage watching the gate for activity.

As you’re about to proceed further and meet with them you notice something strange. A shine in the reeds beside the road where the party waits for you. The coloration matches the reeds and marsh plants almost perfectly, but the glint of sun on this area isn’t consistent with the area around it. As you peer closely it suddenly dawns on gilly that she’s looking at a the glint of sunlight reflecting off a patch of wet, rubbery, amphibious skin lurking near her companions, who seem all but oblivious to it. Kelric is walking almost directly towards it, eyes focused on the ground.

((The white asterisk is where the glint of sunlight is being reflected.))

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KCC

Nov 28, 2020 7:58 am
Previously posted as a secret note:
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Looking at the distance between me and the party, I don’t know if Gilly has the time to get there in time to warn them. Nor will she shout out and blow their element of surprise.

So what I’m thinking is to climb onto the rubble just across from me, trying to get to a higher/more noticeable spot. If I go unnoticed by the party, and can’t flag them down, then I will throw a stone, aiming for the direction of the white asterisk. Not to hit. Rather to "plop" into the water, alerting Kelric and hopefully making him spot the creature.

This could be a terrible plan. But I don’t think she’d run or shout. And a plop, to guards, could be anything. Especially if they know there’s wildlife in the moat. I’ll roll, in case and you can discount it if I don’t have the range or something happens in between.

Rolls

Stone throw. - (1d20+3)

Nov 28, 2020 9:23 am
Coulson tries to keep a watch out from his higher vantage point, watching to see if anyone tries to come up behind the party
Nov 28, 2020 4:36 pm
Previously posted as a secret note:
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https://i.imgur.com/79rhrYN.png
Gilly splashes across the moat, which comes up to near her waist, even higher at one point. Mud and sludge try to suck her boots off with every step, but finally she crosses and begins climbing atop the broken rubble littering the southeast corner of the moathouse. Coulson's back is turned watching for any trouble that might sneak up behind the party but hears the light splashing as the halfling crosses, turns towards the noise, and watches Gilly climb to the top of the rubble pile. Eltrezar happens to spot her as well. The others in the party seem to have not spotted her yet.
As the dwarf and wizard watch, she reaches the highest point of the pile, next to the stone wall, and begins waving her arms and pointing in the general vicinity of Kelric, though for some reason, despite being only about 75 feet away, she isn't shouting.

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Nov 28, 2020 5:02 pm
OOC:
@Shadowace: What is Kelric doing? Is he still looking for animal tracks or game trails?

KCC

Nov 28, 2020 11:43 pm
Previously posted as a secret note:
Quote:
I'm editing @KCC69's post to include everyone relevant. No offense JCC69, I just did this because it seemed like you were still learning about how to do private notes...

From @KCC69:
"Catching the attention of Eltrezer and Coulson, Gilly points to Kelric, stabbing her finger at him. She motions with her hand, pushing him away from the moat, backwards. And, as if flattening an imaginary ball go dough, she motions for him to get down.
OOC:
"Am I visualizing this incorrectly? Kelric is wandering right up to a bandit camp looking for animal tracks? Wouldn’t not shouting be the correct thing to do? I’ll have a quick read back over the Moathouse introduction."
@KCC69:Kelric is wandering around in front of the gates, lookig for animal tracks and game trails. I'm not going to say if shouting is the correct thing for Gilly to do or not. But you specifically said Gilly wasn't going to shout, but instead wave her arms, and if that didn't get any attention she would throw a rock.

But as of now, her arm waving has Coulson's attention and Eltrezar's, and Kelric is wandering around looking for game trails and tracks, missing Gilly's arm-waving.
And he's about five feet from the danger Gilly's spotted.
Nov 29, 2020 2:23 am
Kelric seeing the state of the Marshland circles back to the rest of the group.
OOC:
was attempting to find a game trail to use to scout the perimeter. Intent was to search immediate area and not advance towards the moathouse. Lol

Pardon the short post. Out of town and doing from a phone
Last edited November 29, 2020 2:24 am
Nov 29, 2020 1:41 pm
Alarmed at the urgency with which Gilly is waving, Coulsons head whips to the direction she is motioning, eyes finding Kelric. A bead of sweat forms on his brow and runs down his temple as Kelric turns around and heads back to their waiting point
Nov 29, 2020 6:00 pm
Eltrezar nudges Sister Alice with a bony elbow, and points towards both Gilly and Kelric. "Be on guard, there may be trouble brewing. Earlier than I had anticipated!" With this, he begins scanning the area around Kelric, trying to ascertain the danger that lurks out of sight.
Nov 29, 2020 7:37 pm
https://i.imgur.com/EpTc0HO.png
Kelric returns to the group after failing to find any sort of game trail that might be of use, and immediately he and Angel are alerted, both by Couldon’s gaze to the southeast corner, and Eltrezar’s comment to Alice, where you all see Gilly standing atop a pile of rubble, frantically waving her arms and pointing to the area just where Kelric was standing.

Eltrezar examines the reeds and swampy area at the edge of the moat Gilly is pointing at where he suddenly sees four Giant Frogs lying in ambush. Had Kelric continued walking forward he surely would have been attacked and probably consumed by all four of the voracious beasts, and had Gilly not spotted the largest of them with her keen eyes and allerted the rest of you, they would have surely gone unnoticed until too late.

As it is, the frogs’ ambush fails and the party is spared the pain of being subject to a surprise attack. However as if sensing that they’ve been spotted, the marsh suddenly comes alive with thrashing and splashing as the creatures reveal themselves and get ready to attack. Their chance at an easy meal has been thwarted, but they seem ready to get their food the hard way if need be, and as they begin thrashing and preparing for an attack.

The riding horses tethered to nearby trees, sensing the impending danger, begin to panic, but find them unable to flee, but Coulson’s and Elmo’s warhorses remember their training and merely give a warning neigh, ready to take orders from their riders.


There are four Giant Frogs. Three of them are average in size, weighing about 100lbs, and standing about halfling size in height. They have been labeled "Small Giant Frog #1, #2, and #3". One of them, however, is exceptionally larger, weighing about 200lbs. Most of their mass appears to be made up of one large mouth leading to one large stomach, and while the three smaller ones look capable of swallowing halfling or even a dwarf, the larger one seems like it could swallow even a human whole.
OOC:
I’ve gone ahead and added some more map to the bottom of the roll20 screen in order to give you all more terrain to take advantage of, and of course the alphabet/number key for describing where your characters move to. Please make note of your PC’s Base Movement Rate right now and understand that during combat you may move up to ⅓ that distance on your character’s combat turn. Coulson is still mounted on his warhorse, which has a Base Movement Rate of 120’, so it can move 40’ on Coulson’s turn. Coulson also forgot to offer Brother Smythe his warhammer before leaving, which will affect his Encumbrance if he dismounts. There’s a few trees and bushes placed to give you cover if you wish to your terrain to your advantage, and the white area is just a continuation of the road leading to the moathouse (the color doesn’t match up, obviously, but it’s all the same road).

Having been robbed of a Surprise Round by Gilly's keen eyes, Round 1 begins!
Turn order is as follows:
--> 1. Coulson (7)
2. Angel, Smaller #2 (6)
3. Gilly, Eltrezar, Giant Frog, Smaller #3 (4)
4. Kelric, Alice, Elmo, Smaller #1 (3)
https://i.imgur.com/5pZ9e2i.png

Rolls

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Angel Initiative roll - (1d6+1)

(5) + 1 = 6

Gilly Initiative roll - (1d6+2)

(2) + 2 = 4

Coulson Initiative roll - (1d6+1)

(6) + 1 = 7

Kelric Initiative roll - (1d6)

(3) = 3

Alice Initiative roll - (1d6+1)

(2) + 1 = 3

Eltrezar Initiative roll - (1d6-1)

(5) - 1 = 4

Elmo Initiative roll - (1d6)

(2) = 2

Giant Frog (Average) Initiative roll - (1d6)

(4) = 4

Giant Frog (Smaller #1) Initiative roll - (1d6)

(3) = 3

Giant Frog (Smaller #2) Initiative roll - (1d6)

(6) = 6

Giant Frog (Smaller #3) Initiative roll - (1d6)

(4) = 4

Nov 29, 2020 11:47 pm
Angel will nock an arrow on his bow and start moving backward toward the tree at U40. He will fire at whichever frog jumps out in front.
OOC:
I will save the roll until after Coulson moves.
Nov 30, 2020 12:26 am
OOC:
@Aldrusian: Noted. Will do after Coulson's turn, and presumably it will be Smaller #2 who shares the same init as Angel this round.

KCC

Dec 1, 2020 6:11 am
Gilly handles her bow. Preparing to loose an arrow at one of the frogs, should her friends enter combat with them. She awaits their first move. If they strike, then so too shall she. If they draw back, then Gilly will sneak away, giving the area a wide berth.

I hope they don’t forget Timber!
Dec 1, 2020 4:50 pm
Standing in his saddle, seeing the giant frogs emerge, he guides his warhorse forward, towards Giant Frog (he goes to p33). He wants to charge, but the ground is obviously not clear enough for such a move. When he gets there, Coulson attacks the frog with his long sword, and had the horse attack too
OOC:
I may have done the horses attacks wrong. If I have let me know and I’ll redo them

Rolls

Attack Longsword - (1d20+2)

(4) + 2 = 6

Attack Horse 2 x Hoof - (2d20)

(55) = 10

Damage (sword) - (1d8)

(3) = 3

Damage hoofs - (2d6)

(65) = 11

Dec 1, 2020 6:54 pm
Coulson, in an act of courage verging on foolishness, spurs his horse forward, stopping in front of the largest of the four giant frogs. He attempts to slash at the amphibious beast with his longsword and his horse lashes out with two great clubbing hooves, but the muck and mire stick the the warhorse's feet and it's kicks come up short, as does Coulson's sword slash and the the Giant Frog adjusts its position a bit poised to attack.

Before it can one of the smaller frogs to Coulson's right takes advantage of the meal that's come to him. The frog's primitive brains aren't capable of much by way of sophisticated thought, acting more on instinct that anything else, but it can certainly deduce when a meal is too big to swallow, and so it ignores Coulson's horse and leaps up to and bites the dwarf astride it. Fortunately, the frog's attack glances off Coulson's armor, but he no finds himself in the midst of four voracious frogs, all excited to make a meal with as little effort as possible.
OOC:
Turn order is as follows:
1. Coulson (7)
-->2. Angel, Smaller #2 (6)
3. Gilly, Eltrezar, Giant Frog, Smaller #3 (4)
4. Kelric, Alice, Elmo, Smaller #1 (3)

Angel is up, and no frogs have moved position. It was previously stated that Angel was going to move to U40 and fire. Is that still the case?

Rolls

Smaller Giant Frog #2 Attack - (1d20)

(12) = 12

Smaller Giant Frog #2 Damage - (1d4)

(3) = 3

Dec 3, 2020 3:44 am
Angel stops his retreat, settles his feet, sights in on smaller frog #2, draws and releases.

Rolls

Attack with long bow - (1d20+2)

(19) + 2 = 21

Damage from longbow - (1d6)

(5) = 5

Dec 3, 2020 4:01 am
Seeing his new companion in danger, Eltrezar snaps into action. It takes him a second to begin moving, as sitting still did his weary bones no favors. Once he does, however, he creeps forward roughly five feet to get a better shot at one of these smaller frogs. Drawing a dagger, he aims and lets if fly. 'Brother Smythe, let us see how your craftsmanship stands up to these beasts...'
OOC:
Eltrezar moves to O-36, and throws a dagger at Frog in O-33
Last edited December 3, 2020 4:09 am

Rolls

Attack with Dagger - (1d20-1)

(13) - 1 = 12

Damage with Dagger - (1d4-1)

(3) - 1 = 2

Dec 3, 2020 7:45 am
Angel holds his position, draws his bow back, and releases an arrow at the giant frog that just made a lunge for Coulson. The arrow hits the mark, almost exactly where the thief was aiming for, hitting the amphibian with a solis "thwack" and burying itself almost to the feathers. The frog gives a strangled croak and looks severely injured. It's not dead, but it doesn't look long for the world. Even if it survives this encounter, it probably won't live long enough to see another day. Unfortunately, that doesn't deter it from trying, and it remains an immediate threat.
OOC:
@charles.c.crowley:
There is no Giant Frog in O-33, or any other "33" square on the grid, so I'm narrating the following under the assumption that you meant the frog in O-31.
Also, this is going to maybe seem a bit complicated, but it's not really... As Eltrezar is going to throw a dagger at #3 this turn, while at the same time 3# is hopping one step forward and biting at Coulson. Normally, #3 would be at 25' from the wazard and he would have another -1 to your attack roll for long range, but since 3# is moving to attack Coulson, it'll be at 20' (medium range) and there's no penalty or bonus for range.
As Angel admires his beautiful show of marksmanship, Eltrezar steps in front of him and hurls one of his daggers at another of the smaller frogs at almost the same time that it leaps forward five feet and attempts to bite at Coulson. The frog's attack on coulson is deflected by the Dwarf's shield and as it hit's the ground it falls over sideways and rolls belly up, it's arms and legs going limp. The wizard's dagger, amazingly enough, sits embedded in the soft, fleshy underbelly of the beast.

At the same moment one frog falls dead on the marshy ground, the largest of the Giant Frogs leaps up, attempting to take the dwarf off his horse with a bite from its massive mouth, and again Coulson turns and gets his shield up just in the nick of time.

Every frog seems to want a piece of Coulson at this point, the dwarf being the closest target, and he's feeling the pressure of being the subject of a feeding frenzy.
OOC:
Round 1 continues with Gilly up next, and turn order is as follows:
1. Coulson (7)
2. Angel, Smaller #2 (6)
--.3. Gilly, Eltrezar, Giant Frog, Smaller #3 (4)
4. Kelric, Alice, Elmo, Smaller #1 (3)
https://i.imgur.com/GBY2OoA.png

Rolls

Smaller Giant Frog #3 Attack, Damage - (1d20, 1d4)

1d20 : (17) = 17

1d4 : (4) = 4

Giant Frog Attack, Damage - (1d20, 1d4)

1d20 : (15) = 15

1d4 : (4) = 4

KCC

Dec 3, 2020 8:03 am
Gilly sees her allies crash forward to overtake the frogs. She winces a little, hoping not to hear shouts from inside the fort.

She pulls back her bow, arrow set. Her tongue peeks out as she concentrates on the shot.

She’s satisfied with the elevation the rocky outcrop gives her, and spies a frog, skulking in the back, currently unengaged.

She looses her arrow, hoping it hits the mark.
OOC:
She’s firing at Q31

Rolls

Attack - (1d20+3)

(16) + 3 = 19

Damage - (1d6)

(2) = 2

Dec 3, 2020 8:15 am
OOC:
Good lord that was a fast response! What are you doing up at this hour?!?
Gilly fires her bow at the the frog closet to the moathouse. The arrow sails 65 feet and strikes to frog in the side before it even gets a chance to try it's luck against the dwarf's defenses. It gives a strangled croak and falls to its side. A couple of desperate kicks later and it falls still, dead as the one Eltrezar hit with it's dagger.
OOC:
Round 1 continues with turn order is as follows:
1. Coulson (7)
2. Angel, Smaller #2 (6)
3. Gilly, Eltrezar, Giant Frog, Smaller #3 (4)
-->4. Kelric, Alice, Elmo, Smaller #1 (3)

KCC

Dec 3, 2020 8:29 am
OOC:
Its 5:25 pm where I am. :D
Dec 3, 2020 3:47 pm
funfungiguy says:
OOC:
@charles.c.crowley:
There is no Giant Frog in O-33, or any other "33" square on the grid, so I'm narrating the following under the assumption that you meant the frog in O-31.
Also, this is going to maybe seem a bit complicated, but it's not really... As Eltrezar is going to throw a dagger at #3 this turn, while at the same time 3# is hopping one step forward and biting at Coulson. Normally, #3 would be at 25' from the wizard and he would have another -1 to your attack roll for long range, but since 3# is moving to attack Coulson, it'll be at 20' (medium range) and there's no penalty or bonus for range.
OOC:
I don't know how I read that grid so wrong. I even make maps for a living! Looking back at it, I had intended to aim at P-32, crawling to get into the medium range. BUUUT I'm also very happy with killing whichever frog his dagger landed in.
Dec 3, 2020 5:06 pm
Quote:
OOC:
I don't know how I read that grid so wrong. I even make maps for a living!
OOC:
I'm pretty amateur, so I'm probably doing it wrong. I usually put the alphabets along the top margin, and the numbers run along the left side on the page, but with Gilly way out in right field at the moment this map is so big that I'd have to zoom so far out you wouldn't be able to see anything at all an it was easier to put them below for now. As monsters and PCs gather closer together in closer quarters I'll zoom in more and the A-Z coordinates will probably be at the top of the maps I post more often.
I didn't see any targets in the 33 line of squares and only one target on the O line of squares so I thought that's what you meant.
*Sorry about that, frog #3...
Dec 3, 2020 7:34 pm
Alice whips her sling around her neck, letting the stone fall to the ground and quietly rushes up to stand aside Coulson, drawing her hammer along the way. Stifling her usual battle cry, the iron cleric brings her hammer down...
OOC:
Move Q33
Attack Q32

Rolls

Attack Q32 - (1d20+1)

(13) + 1 = 14

Damage - (1d6+1)

(2) + 1 = 3

Dec 3, 2020 8:25 pm
Bearing the weight of her armor and her gear, Alice moves advances on the frogs to her full full movement rate to arrive shoulder-to-shoulder with Coulson, bringing her hammer down on the skull of the frog already severely wounded by Angel's arrow. It's head crushes inward and the frog topples over giving a few spasmodic kicks in the swamp with it's large hind legs. Only the largest of the four frogs remains.
OOC:
Round 1 continues with turn order is as follows:
1. Coulson (7)
2. Angel, Smaller #2 (6)
3. Gilly, Eltrezar, Giant Frog, Smaller #3 (4)
-->4. Kelric, Alice, Elmo, Smaller #1 (3)

I'll wait for Kelric to take his turn and Elmo will go after.
Dec 5, 2020 2:33 am
Kelric seeing the creatures, nocks an arrow swiftly, pulls back on the bow and steadies his aim. He takes a deep breath and as he slowly breathes out releases it at the creature closest to him.
OOC:
I think the grid is q33 if I am reading it right, can't zoon in for some reason. lol


Does the +1 to damage from my strength apply to the arrow as well? If not, just remove it from my roll

Rolls

Attack - (1d20+1)

(17) + 1 = 18

Damage - (1d6+1)

(2) + 1 = 3

Dec 5, 2020 8:41 pm
@Shadowace:
OOC:
First I'll update the map because it wasn't very current...
https://i.imgur.com/1uTFwe9.png
As you can see, Alice is currently standing on the Q33 square, and Coulson is on P33. The only remaining frog is the largest one on P32, and Elmo is going to ride his warhorse to O32 and attack the toad with his battleaxe.

Second, ranged weapons can't be used to attack enemies less than 5' away. Each square is 5', so basically you can't fire a missile weapon at any target in an adjacent square. Something to think about before moving your character.

Third, to answer your question, Strength modifiers never apply to missile attacks at all; only melee attacks, in which case they apply to both your To-Hit rolls and Damage rolls. Dexterity modifiers do apply to To-Hit rolls for bows and other missile attacks, but not to Damage rolls. Kelric has a "12" in Dexterity, so he doesn't have any Dexterity modifier to apply to bow attacks, BUT his long bow ranges are 70'/140'/210'. That's Short/Medium/Long ranges. If Kelric fires a bow at a target in short range he gets a +1 to his To-Hit roll. If he shoots at a target in long range he has a -1 penalty to his To-Hit roll. No modifier for medium range.

So I'll go ahead and leave that roll as it is, assuming you don't move Kelric further than 70' away from the frog. He rolled a "17" and you still get the +1 bonus, but it's for being in short range (again, assuming you don't move your token farther than 70'), for a total of "18". That does hit the frog, doing 2 damage. Just tell me where Kelric moved to before taking the shot and I'll move your token retroactively.
Kelric moves to get a clear shot at the Giant Frog and snaps off an arrow at it, striking the beast in one of its shoulders. The frog makes a low "ribbit" in acknowledgement. Elmo spurs his horse on circling around the frog's right and engages it, swinging his battle axe at the creature. Unfortunately the swing misses it's intended target by about a country mile, and you hear Elmo slur a curse out at his embarrassing miss. He nudges his horse which lashes out with it's hooves. The first kick misses, but the second one grazes the frog's shoulder.
OOC:
Round 1 ends with three of the four frogs killed, and only the largest one remaining Round 2 begins, and turn order is as follows:
-->1. Elmo (8)
2. Kelric, Eltrezar (5)
3. Angel, Coulson (4)
4. Gilly (3)
5. Giant Frog (1)

Rolls

Elmo Attack roll, Damage roll - (1d20+2, 1d8+2)

1d20+2 : (4) + 2 = 6

1d8+2 : (6) + 2 = 8

Elmo Warhorse Attack x2, Damage roll - (2d20, 2d6)

2d20 : (810) = 18

2d6 : (12) = 3

Angel Initiative roll - (1d6+1)

(3) + 1 = 4

Gilly Initiative roll - (1d6+2)

(1) + 2 = 3

Coulson Initiative roll - (1d6+1)

(3) + 1 = 4

Kelric Initiative roll - (1d6)

(5) = 5

Eltrezar Initiative roll - (1d6-1)

(6) - 1 = 5

Elmo Initiative roll - (1d6+2)

(6) + 2 = 8

Giant Frog (Average) Initiative roll - (1d6)

(1) = 1

Dec 5, 2020 8:59 pm
Having just swung his battle axe at the frog and missed, Elmo had his horse kick at the amphibian. As soon as the horse's hooves hit the mud Elmo takes a backswing at the frog and again spurs his mount to lash out two more swift kicks. This time the axe slams directly into the side of the creature's head and the blade sinks deep. The frog keels over dead, and for good measure Elmo's warhorse smashes it's skull in under it's massive hooves.
The air is quiet again. Hopefully the brief skirmish remained unheard by any inhabitants of the moathouse...


https://i.imgur.com/pvkKY8r.png

A rotting drawbridge lays fallen on the ground spanning the shallow moat below. Further beyond one of the gatehouse doors stands ajar.

Rolls

Elmo Attack roll, Damage roll - (1d20+2, 1d8+2)

1d20+2 : (14) + 2 = 16

1d8+2 : (5) + 2 = 7

Elmo Warhorse Attack roll x2, Damage roll (10%) - (2d20, 2d6)

2d20 : (1317) = 30

2d6 : (41) = 5

Dec 5, 2020 10:49 pm
Angel lowers his bow and removes the arrow from the string. He will keep his horse steady and not move forward until those near the mote make a move and only then will he follow. He does take a moment to look for Gilly.
Dec 5, 2020 11:52 pm
Angel looks for Gilly and having given her position away by shooting at the frogs, he sees her standing over by the southeast corner of the moathouse, bow in hand still.
Dec 6, 2020 12:00 am
Creeping foward while at the alert, Eltrezar moves to collect his dagger and examine the frogs. Hrmph! "Toadus Giganticus. It is a good thing that larger one didn't eat our friend here, though..." The wizard looks Coulson up and down, "I'm not sure you would have stayed down. Dwarves are notoriously hard to eat. Are you injured? That was quite the scuffle you found yourself in..."

KCC

Dec 6, 2020 12:16 am
Locking eyes with Angel, Gilly motions:

Palm pushing the group back
Flattening the group to the ground
Pointing to herself
Making a walking gesture with her fingers
Pointing to the group


She scampers down the rocks, careful not to make noise, and heads back into the bush. She makes her way back to the group. Even though her body is full of adrenaline from the skirmish, and her kill... her first kill... she managed to remain hidden in the bush, moving quickly. She finds the path that she travelled a few moment before.

Before exiting the bush, she calls to the group:

"Pssst... psssst..." she pushes her face out. Her bushy red hair is tangled with twigs, having forgotten to pull up her cloak on the return journey.

"Psst! I found a way inside. Shhh..."
Last edited December 6, 2020 12:23 am

Rolls

Sneak - (1d100)

(13) = 13

Dec 6, 2020 1:26 am
OOC:
To be clear, if the southeast corner is Gilley's "way in" it's small. A halfling or maybe even dwarf could slip.through, but the rest would be left outside.

KCC

Dec 6, 2020 1:31 am
Previously posted as a secret note:
Quote:
I recall another entrance in the NE side, no?
Last edited December 6, 2020 1:31 am
Dec 6, 2020 2:48 am
Kelric takes in his surrounding as he regroups with the others an lowers his bow. I have seen things in my time, but nothing such as this. motioning to the frogs. Kelric eyes the bridge and the surrounding area to see if he can find other ways into the moathouse.

Previously posted as a secret note:
Quote:
Can I use detect to see if there is another way into the moathouse?

From my sheet:
Detection: I can find secret and hidden doors better than other characters. If I want to search for hidden doors in an area, tell your Dungeon Master. The DM will roll 1d6, and a result of 1 or 2 will indicate success if there is a door to be found. I may check once for each door. I must tell your DM if I want to look for anything; the detection is never automatic.
Last edited December 6, 2020 2:48 am
Dec 6, 2020 3:57 am
Alice spots Gilly signaling the group to get back and stay low and tries to rouse the others to do so.

"I think Gilly means for us to take cover, I don't know if she has seen something or not but it seems wise to use whatever subterfuge remains available."

Alice quickly steps back a few feet into the brush just behind her...
Dec 6, 2020 11:10 am
Grunting to acknowledge why Gilly is indicating, and what Alice actually put voice to, Coulson slips down off his war horse. He leads him back to the fallen tree and ties him off there, out of sight of the moat. Checking the lance and hammer are secure, he heads back to rejoin the group. As he joins them, he looks at each in turn, and whispers "Tha’ were a spot o good killin’ there. But Elmo, I reckon you needs ter sober up, and right quick"
Dec 6, 2020 9:02 pm
Previously posted as a secret note:
Quote:
Quote:
I recall another entrance in the NE side, no?
Yes, the one where you saw a bandit keeping watch. That one is big enough for all.
Previously posted as a secret note:
Quote:
OOC:
Sure, I like that idea. Well shoot, that roll was supposed to be hidden but the thing didn't work. In any case.
Kelric scans the outside of the moathouse wall but doesn't notice any secret doors or alternative means to get inside from where he stands.
Elmo listens to Coulson's gentle chastisement and nods, "Aye, I maybe should 'ave taken a chip on tha' last ale, my friend..."

Rolls

Kelric Detect roll - (1d6)

(3) = 3

Dec 6, 2020 10:44 pm
Angel slinks back into the underbrush as best he can and waits for the group to decide which way to go.
Dec 6, 2020 10:55 pm
"And where is the secret entrance, little one? Is it safe? And most importantly, did you see any of the bandits? I would hope our scuffle with these beasts did not remove our element of surprise." Eltrezar slinks back into cover, following the motions of Sister Alice.

KCC

Dec 7, 2020 12:21 am
Excitedly, Gilly begins to stage whisper her discoveries!

"Alright! I found two entrances! One riiiiight there..." she points to where she had been standing, bow in hand a moment ago! "... but well, it’s a bit small. I could go through, and maybe Coulson." she cocks an inquisitive eye at Coulson, mentally sizing him up.

She shakes her head! "Eh... anyway. Too small. But there’s another way all the way around. Big enough for everyone. But.. well, there’s a person standing nearby."
Dec 7, 2020 7:00 am
"Hmm, we ain’t exactly a group of quiet sneak theives, but if only two of us will fit through the other one, I don’t see as how much good it’ll do us. There bound ter be more’n one fella inside, an’ the two of us won’t be able to take them all on"
Dec 7, 2020 3:36 pm
"Did you see anyone else Gilly? If it's only one guard we might be able to take him by surprise with our archers. Seems wiser than tromping in through the front gate...

KCC

Dec 7, 2020 3:42 pm
"Just the one. But he has a great big crossbow... so we would have to be quick." Gilly doesn’t like the prospect of taking fire from a crossbow, but she’s feeling high from scoring a hit on the frog. "I’m sure I can get him. If someone else were to help, well... easy."
Last edited December 7, 2020 3:42 pm
Dec 7, 2020 4:22 pm
"Hmm, crossbow has a good reach and I don't want to make a target out of any of you. How close could we get before breaking cover?"
Dec 7, 2020 4:51 pm
Eltrezar eyes Coulson up and down, seemingly comparing the size of the short but stout dwarf to his own frail frame, as though amused by the thought of himself being unable to follow the dwarf into a small crevice. "Is it wise for one as armed as yourself to try to sneak into a guarded compound, Dwarf? As for the guard... I currently command but a sliver of my potential magicks, and as such can only unleash it upon one poor damned fool. I'd prefer to save it for a time of urgency. And while I have many knives, I cannot throw them at a distance that would be safe from the crossbow. It would seem that our little burglar is our best bet here, as she can get close and unleash arrows from hiding. Clever use of cover might even provide a distraction to allow some of us to close in from another direction."
Dec 7, 2020 5:18 pm
Previously posted as a secret note:
Quote:
https://i.imgur.com/0Y6ywz4.png
OOC:
From what Gilly recalls, there was some bushes and trees on the party's side of the moat, near where the crossbowman was keeping watch. About 35-40 feet from the hole in the moathouse wall. After that you'd all be out in the open.
Dec 7, 2020 5:54 pm
Angel steps forward. "Maybe I can't sneak as well as Gilly but I'm quieter than the rest of you. I'll go with her and both our bows should do the trick."
Dec 8, 2020 2:26 am
Kelric watches the group discuss the small opening. I can not seem to detect any other entrances besides what you have found.
You have my bow as well, maybe if we fire at the same time we better our odds against the guard.
Kelric says as he shrugs his shoulders.

KCC

Dec 8, 2020 3:04 am
Gilly nods to Angel and Kelric.

"Yes! The three of us could do it. Come, come! I can show you how to hide, if you’re not sure! Just copy me!

Eh... the rest of you..."
she nods to Elmo, Alice, Coulson and Eltrezar "... count to 60 and then sneak as best you can! Or I can come back and show you how!"

Gilly is taking her role as the sneak very seriously indeed.
Last edited December 8, 2020 3:05 am
Dec 8, 2020 3:53 am
Although her head is wrapped around the upcoming fight, Alice for the life of her cannot help but crack a smile at the Halfling's enthusiasm.

"Whistle a bird call that repeats three times when you want us Gilly."
Dec 8, 2020 3:57 am
To Coulson and Elmo, Alice asks a favor;

"You two have warhorses that will not throw us should the bolts start flying. Could we double up to charge in and then Eltrezar and myself will dismount near the fight?"
Dec 8, 2020 9:07 am
"If’n you reckon the ‘orses will get there, I don’t see that as a bad plan, yer welcome to share me ‘orse sister"
Dec 8, 2020 4:48 pm
OOC:
I think that Gilly would hear this conversation between Alice and Coulson and would know that the hole in the wall the crossbowman was peering out of would be big enough for a man, but probably not big enough for a horse.
Dec 8, 2020 6:29 pm
OOC:
My plan is not to ride the horse into the keep but to use it to cross the distance between us melee types and the crossbow. The faster we cross no man's land the fewer bolts we potentially take and the fewer goons that can come flooding out of the hole
Last edited December 8, 2020 6:30 pm

KCC

Dec 9, 2020 12:12 pm
"Mmmm... I don’t think the horse can sneak so well. And the hole is big enough for you to fit, but I’m not so sure about Timber and the others."
Dec 9, 2020 2:50 pm
"But they’ll get us across twice as quick as walking"
Dec 9, 2020 3:14 pm
"Not to worry Gilly, we won't be sneaking if we ride the horses up. We will wait back here out of sight while you three sneak up and shoot the guard. If no one notices you do so then we will walk over and join you, but if your arrows do not kill the guard he may shout an alarm and then more men will come out of the hole. The horses are so that if that happens we can rush to your aid as quickly as possible."
OOC:
the riders will hold position near 36,EE on the last marked combat map

KCC

Dec 9, 2020 3:43 pm
Gilly nods to both Coulson and Alice, understanding their plan.

"Be careful." she smiles to her adventuring companions.

She turns and heads into the brush once again.
Last edited December 9, 2020 3:53 pm

Rolls

Stealth - (1d100)

(56) = 56

Dec 10, 2020 12:38 am
Elmo nods and says, "Aye, not a bad idea Sister. Are you figurin' we rush the hole in th' wall after th' 'alflin' and th' thief take their shots at th' crossbowman? Is tha' what yer thinkin'?"
OOC:
For real, though. Is the plan that Angel and Gilly try and sneak to the bushes, and fire at the man guarding the hole in the wall, and then anyone mounted on a warhorse will cross the shallow moat and dismount and storm the Moathouse Wall's hole?

And if so are we thinking Alice and Elmo ride one horse, Eltrezar and Coulson on the second one, Angel and Gilly on foot creeping?

What is the rest going to do? Attack on foot and hope the horses draw the cross bowman's fire?

Also, where is Gilly creeping to? The bushes directly east of the hole, or the ones more southeast?
Dec 10, 2020 1:27 am
"That's right Elmo, let us hope our bowmen are able to take out the guard, otherwise we may be riding into fire."
OOC:
Yes Angel, Gilly and Kelric sneak ahead and shoot the guard, as soon as they fire Gilly should signal is with a bird call at which point we will charge and dismount within melee distance of the hole. Coulson and I will share a horse and Elmo and Eltrezar will share to more evenly distribute the weight. I'll let Gilly chime in on which bushes to creep to...

KCC

Dec 10, 2020 1:33 am
OOC:
Yes, three of us will move up and sneak attack this guard.

The others hold back to see how that goes. Awaiting a signal.

I don’t think I’ll push my luck too much and remain to the southeast. As soon as I’m in range, we can prepare our shots.
Dec 10, 2020 1:47 am
Eltrezar grumbles all the way to the horse he is expected to share with the drunkard. "Perhaps the two of us should lag behind you a bit, Sister Alice. I don't trust this man to be subtle in the slightest, and I worry he might sway into any bolts instead of away." None of these words were hidden from Elmo.
Dec 10, 2020 2:26 am
"Of course Master Eltrezar, Coulson and I will ride in the vanguard,

Alice looks to Elmo with a raised hand of placation,

"Not as a slight to you good sir Elmo, bit because if there is blood to be spilt I would rather it be mine than yours."
Dec 10, 2020 5:24 am
Angel follows Gilly trying to keep low and quiet. He will place himself where Gilly points trying to keep a good distance apart so that their arrows will come from two different directions to confuse the guard if they both miss.
Dec 10, 2020 4:36 pm
"Aye, tis a good plan Sister. I’m glad we had yer tactical mind with us". Coulson mounts his horse, then offers a gnarled hand down to Sister Alice, to help swing her up o to the back of the horse
Dec 11, 2020 2:02 am
Kelric nods in agreement and gets his bow ready to fire.
OOC:
He will attempt to get into a spot that still has cover but provides a direct line of fire if possible.
Dec 11, 2020 2:58 am
"Thank you Coulson, with Saint Cuthbert at our side we cannot fail."

Alice takes the dwarf's hand and mounts the war horse, gripping it's flanks with her powerful legs so as to keep ready her hammer and shield.
Dec 11, 2020 4:31 am
With a plan of attack decided upon, Gilly, Angel, and Kelric press forward at a creep, using the natural environment whenever possivle to stay in cover.

Meanwhile Alice and Coulsion mounted on one warhorse, and Elmo and Eltrezar mounted on the other wait for a sign that their companions have made a bow attack.
https://i.imgur.com/CkV3e0t.png

Around the other side of the moathouse, Gilly, Angel, and Kelric spot the crossbowman keeping watch, but through the use of cover and patience Gilly and Angel eventually get to within 35-50 feet of the man standing watch. Kelric is about 65 feet from the guard, but all of them are within short range.
https://i.imgur.com/fJd6qhZ.png
OOC:
The guard failed to spot you and Gilly, Angel, and Kelric now get a Surprise Round. After they attack, I will roll Initiative for everyone.
Surprise Round! Turn order as follows:
-->1. Gilly, Angel, Kelric (S)
You're all within Short Range of the crossbowman, and thus get +1 to yor To-Hit rolls on top of any Dexterity Modifier.

Rolls

Crossbowman Surprise roll - (1d6)

Secret Roll

Secret Roll

Secret Roll

KCC

Dec 11, 2020 12:21 pm
Gilly sets an arrow in her bow. It occurs to her that this is the first time that she’ll be firing on a person.

... if Alice and Coulson and the others say it’s okay then it must be okay...

She sees the man, unaware of the impending flurry. She draws back the bow, closing one eye. Her tongue protrudes slightly.

She fires. The arrow clacks against the stone.
OOC:
Dang!
Last edited December 11, 2020 12:22 pm

Rolls

Attack - (1d20+4)

(3) + 4 = 7

Damage - (1d6)

(5) = 5

Dec 11, 2020 5:48 pm
Angel takes aim and lets fly barely a second after Gilly.

Rolls

Bow Attack on guard - (1d20+3)

(8) + 3 = 11

Damage - (1d6)

(4) = 4

Dec 11, 2020 7:09 pm
Clack... clackety...

Perhaps the idea of killing a man causes her to hesitate or lose focus, but for whatever reason Gilly's arrow files off the mark pretty badly, clattering against the stone wall a foot or so from the crossbowman. Angel's arrow is released a split second later and misses the guard's chest by a hair, clattering to the other side of the man.

The man instinctively flinches as each arrow clatters to each side of him, and his eyes fall on Gilly and Angel, bewilderment on his face as he suddenly realizes the two attackers got so close to his position unnoticed. He still doesn't see Kelric to his right.
OOC:
Kelric's final shot remains before all surprise is lost.
Turn order is as follows:
-->1. Gilly, Angel, Kelric (S)

KCC

Dec 12, 2020 1:25 am
OOC:
Yondalla, guide this man’s shot!
Dec 14, 2020 5:39 pm
Seeing Gilly's and Angel's arrows fail to hit their target, and instead reveal the halfling's and thief's positions, Kelric lets loose his arrow, giving the party their final chance to capitalize on their ambush... And true that arrow flies! As the brigand stands at the gap in the wall staring at Gilly and Angel with a bewildered look on his face, Kelric's arrow sinks deep in his throat, and with a gurgle cut off he staggers back and hit the ground dead.

For a moment the party doesn't know whether to give a bird call or not, when their choice is made for them.
Inside you hear a voice shout, "Oy! Bloody hell, Owen? Some bastard outside the walls just shot Owen dead!"

Another voice, harsh and with authority, begins barking orders... "You there! Get at that hole and see what were dealing with! Use your crossbow if you have to; I don't want anyone squeezing through and getting into this place before I've got a head count on what we're dealing with! You... be ready to back him up if he falls as well! You... with me! Get over here and help me with this!"
OOC:
Couple of things:
First here's a keyed map of everything the "sniper group" can see:
https://i.imgur.com/CeYboDz.png

And here's a keyed map of everything the mounted group can see:
https://i.imgur.com/LXHFyn7.png

Second, while I usually make individual Initiative rolls for enemies, I don't want to reveal how many are inside, so I just made a group one for the Brigands this round. I accidentally marked it as hidden, but it was a "5". As your party members begin spotting individual brigands they will be designated a number, much as every other enemy has in this game, and they will get an individual Initiative roll at the start of a new round, but undiscovered brigands will still have one group roll.

Third, remember that Alice is on Coulson's horse, and Eltrezar is on Elmo's. Therefore, you may make regular actions but your PC's movement is limited to your horse handler's turn, unless you choose to dismount and go on foot. I'm not going to force you to use an Action to dismount, we'll assume you hopped off easily enough, but mounting a horse will take an Action.

Fourth, the hole in the Moathouse wall is extremely narrow, allowing regular sized characters to pass through, but just barely. This will cause a sever bottleneck effect. To enter and exit through the hole you MUST past from GG10 to FF11, or vice-versa. Likewise, melee attacks can only be made from GG10 to FF11, or vice-versa. This will severely limit movement and melee attack opportunities.
https://i.imgur.com/jFT9Rbi.png

And finally, the Surprise round ends with one brigand watchman killed. Round 1 begins! Turn order is as follows:
-->1. Coulson, Sister Alice (7)
2. Kelric (6)
3. Unidentified Brigands (5)
4. Angel (4)
5. Gilly (3)
6. Eltrezar, Elmo (2)
Good Luck!

Rolls

Kelric Ranged Attack roll, Longbow Damage roll - (1d20+1, 1d6)

1d20+1 : (19) + 1 = 20

1d6 : (5) = 5

Secret Roll

Angel Initiative roll - (1d6+1)

(3) + 1 = 4

Gilly Initiative roll - (1d6+2)

(1) + 2 = 3

Coulson Initiative roll - (1d6+1)

(6) + 1 = 7

Kelric Initiative roll - (1d6)

(6) = 6

Alice Initiative roll - (1d6+1)

(6) + 1 = 7

Eltrezar Initiative roll - (1d6-1)

(3) - 1 = 2

Elmo Initiative roll - (1d6+1)

(1) + 1 = 2

Secret Roll

Dec 14, 2020 6:37 pm
Angel grimaces and pulls another arrow out of his quiver and readies his next shot. He fully expects a shout of warning from the guard.
Dec 14, 2020 7:13 pm
Aldrusian says:
Angel grimaces and pulls another arrow out of his quiver and readies his next shot. He fully expects a shout of warning from the guard.
OOC:
@Aldrusian:
I think you posted while I was writing this up, but you called it correctly. Please see my post above.
Dec 14, 2020 9:05 pm
Coulson puts his heels to the horses flanks and guides his mount across the water at the narrowest available point, aiming to take position at DD31, lance down and ready to charge should an enemy appear
Dec 14, 2020 9:24 pm
OOC:
Coulson and Alice are on DD31 together.
Turn order is as follows still:
-->1. Coulson, Sister Alice (7)
2. Kelric (6)
3. Unidentified Brigands (5)
4. Angel (4)
5. Gilly (3)
6. Eltrezar, Elmo (2)
Good Luck!
Dec 15, 2020 12:10 am
"Archers keep the pressure on! Shoot anyone who shows their face!"

Alice holds on tight as Coulson spurs his horse toward the fight.
Dec 15, 2020 12:17 am
OOC:
If by morning Shadowace hasn't posted, I will for Kelric and we'll keep things moving. Technically, that's only 15 or 16 hours, but that's fine.
Dec 15, 2020 12:19 am
OOC:
What is the movement rate of warhorses and did we move ours to the maximum?
Dec 15, 2020 3:04 am
Kelric grins as his last arrow impales the throat of the one they called Owen. Nocking another arrow, Kelric trains his bow on the hole ready to fire at the first thing that comes out of there
OOC:
weekends are tough. feel free to post for me if I do hold things up.
Dec 15, 2020 2:13 pm
dominion451 says:
OOC:
What is the movement rate of warhorses and did we move ours to the maximum?
OOC:
i don’t think we did, and I tried to position us so that we can see into that blacked out area. Coulson has learnt his lesson about charging blindly in
Dec 15, 2020 5:19 pm
TheFoxofFinch says:
OOC:
i don’t think we did, and I tried to position us so that we can see into that blacked out area. Coulson has learnt his lesson about charging blindly in
OOC:
If we can retcon that move I'd recommend we take it as far as the horse can go, I don't want the low AC archers taking that bolt if we can take it instead...
Dec 15, 2020 6:12 pm
dominion451 says:
OOC:
What is the movement rate of warhorses and did we move ours to the maximum?
OOC:
@dominion451 and @TheFoxofFinch:
The movement rate of a warhorse is 120' (40' per turn in combat). Your horse moved 35' this turn.

Coulson is definitely aware that there is a hole there, as I believe Gilly pointed it out, but she also mentioned that that one is too small for most men to get through. Only a small character (i.e. Gilly or Coulson) can squeeze through. Coulson would be able to see the hole as he approached but would also see that the hole is low to the ground and he would have to dismount and get down low to peer inside.
If that's something you would like to do, let me know.

Otherwise, I'm fine with retconning the move and will advance your tokens to EE30 if you two decide you would like your full 40' move this turn. I'll give you two the option to work it out OOC and get back to me before this round is over.

Be advised, the Moathouse wall runs the length of the DD squares. Consider them obstructed unless there's a hole in the wall.
A small strip of dry land runs the length of the EE squares next to the Moathouse wall, and you get full movement when running on them. If your horse is full-out running they can double their MR to 80' per turn but can not make an attack that turn, and suffer a penalty of 2 to attacks, AC, and damage rolls.
Moving over to the right into the actual moat will count as difficult terrain, due to the soggy bottom and the general resistance of trying to run through deeper water. It will effectively reduce your mount's Base Movement Rate (BMR) by half.
Another crossbowman suddenly peers through the hole in the wall and spots the three archers and possibly the charging horse coming around the corner to the south, and reflexively fires his crossbow.

OOC:
*Rolls for random target...


A "thwang" rips through the air, Gilly Puddlefoot feels as if she was kicked directly in the chest by a mule, knocking her backward. More on instinct than anything she immediately rebounds to her feet and looks down. Her mouth fills with the coppery taste of blood, and it pours readily from her nostrils and onto the remaining end of a crossbow bolt deeply embedded in her chest.
Adrenaline kicks in as she realizes she's in very bad trouble. Through a ringing in her ears she faintly hears the man at the wall shouting,
"Three archers! Two men in heavy plate charging on a warhorse! I think I got one of the archers!"


OOC:
I operated on the pretense that the horse is on EE30. This would give the brigand four targets to choose from instead of three and hopefully take some heat off the archers. Since this brigand (who will now be called "Brigand #2) has no idea who shot Brigand #1, I randomly rolled his target. I went from top to bottom on the map. 1-Gilly, 2-Angel, 3-Kelric, 4-Coulson (I didn't not include Alice as she's directly behind Coulson on the horse and the brigand wouldn't choose such a foolish shot. I rolled a d4:
https://i.imgur.com/9hTXyxq.png

Round 1 continues... Turn order is as follows:
1. Coulson, Sister Alice (7)
2. Kelric (6)
3. Unidentified Brigands (5)
-->4. Angel (4)
5. Gilly (3)
6. Eltrezar, Elmo (2)
https://i.imgur.com/GmphDhw.png

I don't want to see anyone die here, but as a Halfling4Lyfe man myself, I really do not want to see Gilly get taken out. Remember also, if your HP are reduced to 0 or less, you are allowed 1 Death Saving roll on your PC's next turn. It's not great, but it does give a player one last hope. Let's not let it come to that, though.

Rolls

Secret Roll

Brigand #2 Attack roll, Crossbow Damage roll - (1d20+1, 1d6)

1d20+1 : (16) + 1 = 17

1d6 : (6) = 6

Dec 15, 2020 6:50 pm
OOC:
Gilly noooooo!!

Coulson:
I say we do an all out run for 80' so we can get to the fight faster rather than spending twice as long doing nothing...
Last edited December 15, 2020 7:04 pm
Dec 15, 2020 7:02 pm
OOC:
DM:
Just a heads up crossbows act last in every round due to the slow property and should take a round to reload...
Last edited December 15, 2020 7:04 pm
Dec 15, 2020 7:31 pm
dominion451 says:
OOC:
DM:
Just a heads up crossbows act last in every round due to the slow property and should take a round to reload...
OOC:
Oh jeez... I gave some of these bums crossbows instead of standard shortbows knowing they had the "reload" property, and didn't notice they also have "two-handed". That's pretty dumb though; if a guy's crossbow is already loaded and ready to go, they should have to go last. But rules is rules...

Listen, if anyone can take this guy out this round, the shot on Gilly will be retconned and I rewrite the post to fit the narrative. If Brigand #2 remains alive at the end of the round, the shot is made and the dice results posted above stand. @dominion451 may have just saved Gilly's bacon with a Dungeons & Dragons Law degree.
Dec 15, 2020 7:42 pm
OOC:
Sister Alice Esq. Attorney at Lawful Good.

Angel and Gilly, better pray for some good shots!
Dec 16, 2020 1:59 am
OOC:
If allowed, I'm happy to retcon my action to have Kelric fire at the hole where he hears the voice, knowing I was the turn right before his. I had thought of doing that, but was not sure where the voice was coming from. I'll roll - if allowed, otherwise ignore
OOC:
geez - well that didn't go well anyway.......lol
Last edited December 16, 2020 2:00 am

Rolls

Attack - (1d20+1)

(3) + 1 = 4

Damage - (1d6+1)

(2) + 1 = 3

KCC

Dec 16, 2020 3:05 am
*twang*
OOC:
Welp...
Last edited December 16, 2020 3:05 am

Rolls

Attack - (1d20+4)

(5) + 4 = 9

Damage - (1d6)

(3) = 3

Dec 16, 2020 3:55 am
OOC:
oh God it's all down to Angel!
Dec 16, 2020 3:19 pm
dominion451 says:
OOC:
Gilly noooooo!!

Coulson:
I say we do an all out run for 80' so we can get to the fight faster rather than spending twice as long doing nothing...
OOC:
sorry only just got onto gp just now. Yes we can retcon my move, I thought the hole was somewhere different and we were lining up on a main point of entry. My bad for not reading it all correctly
Dec 16, 2020 4:37 pm
OOC:
Awesome, then Alice and Coulson will ride up as far as a full run on a warhorse will take them using the most optimal route
Dec 16, 2020 6:05 pm
Angel fires another arrow at the guard

Rolls

bowshot at guard - (1d20+2)

(19) + 2 = 21

Arrow damage - (1d6)

(3) = 3

Dec 16, 2020 10:21 pm
OOC:
Oh, you dirty DOG, Aldrusian!!!
https://i.imgur.com/t4lZrhZ.png

As the brigand steps to the hole and zeroes in on what would probably be a near fatal shot, Angel snaps off an arrow of his own. Gilly sees the man draw a lethal bead on her and just as she wonders if her number is up, an arrows sails into the man, hitting in the stomach. He grunts at the impact and blood splutters from his mouth as he stumbles back and falls over, clutching his belly but unmoving. For a moment the hole is unoccupied, and Elmo spurs his horse forward to follow Coulson and Alice.
OOC:
The attack on Gilly has been retconned due to effective rules lawyering on the @dominion451's part, with a necessary assist by @Aldrusian. The brigant either never had a chance to fire his weapon, or he missed, and Gilly is back to 7HP.

However, from this point forward, anyone with a readied crossbow, PC or NPC alike, is not subject to the "Slow" property until after they take their first shot.
Round 1 will finish with Eltrezar's turn, if he want's to do anything:
1. Coulson, Sister Alice (7)
2. Kelric (6)
3. Unidentified Brigands (5)
4. Angel (4)
5. Gilly (3)
-->6. Eltrezar, Elmo (2)

https://i.imgur.com/5qPhkWP.png
Dec 17, 2020 12:15 am
Eltrezar looks to his companion of smaller stature and grimaces. Brave as she is, a bolt to the chest will take anyone out of the picture. 'Yondalla must be watching out for her today. After all, there's no way the bolt could have missed her giant heart.' Looking forward once more, he rides along with Elmo.

KCC

Dec 17, 2020 12:33 am
charles.c.cowley says:
After all, there's no way the bolt could have missed her giant heart.'
OOC:
Awh, shucks!
Dec 17, 2020 12:35 am
OOC:
Aldrusian with the save! That's my guy right there! Man that was a nail biter!

DM: Are those two icons along the castle wall both of our horses? If so, I'm sure Coulson and I will ride up to the hole and dismount on either side of the breach so as not to be standing directly in arrow alley.
Dec 17, 2020 12:39 am
As Coulson and Alice ride up to the break in the wall, Alice shouts

"You men in there, throw down your arms and you can flee with your lives! Resist and you die here and now!"
Dec 17, 2020 5:09 am
Hearing that there are more bandits to deal with in the vicinity, Eltrezar draws a dagger and prepares to unleash it into an unsuspecting neck. Out of superstition- after all, what are magickers if not superstitious- he draws the same one from before, not yet honed from whatever bones it may have dulled against.
Dec 18, 2020 1:14 am
Quote:
DM: Are those two icons along the castle wall both of our horses? If so, I'm sure Coulson and I will ride up to the hole and dismount on either side of the breach so as not to be standing directly in arrow alley.
OOC:
Yes, Coulson's and Alice's tokens are overlapping, as are Eltrezar's and Elmo's.

Round 1 ends; Round 2 begins! Turn order is as follows:
-->1. Gilly, Brigand Group (6)
2. Eltrezar, Elmo (5)
3. Angel, Coulson, Kelric
4. Alice
https://i.imgur.com/2sm9hVB.png
OOC:
Brigand Target Selection for this round is as follows:
1-Gilly, 2-Angel, 3-Kelric, 4-Coulson.
Taking a shot at Alice, directly behind Coulson would be foolish. As is firing at Elmo or Eltrezar right now, as their horse is behind Coulson's. I think common sense would dictate that the Brigand would never try and hit one of those targets when others are more readily available.
Just as Angel's arrow takes the second brigand down, another steps to the hole, makes a quick assessment of the situation outside, and raises another crossbow. He draws on Angel and squeezes the trigger, but instead of loosing a deadly bolt at his target, the crossbow's string snaps and the brigand drops the weapon, shaking his hand in agony.
OOC:
Gilly's up.

Rolls

Angel Initiative roll - (1d6+1)

(3) + 1 = 4

Gilly Initiative roll - (1d6+2)

(4) + 2 = 6

Coulson Initiative roll - (1d6+1)

(3) + 1 = 4

Kelric Initiative roll - (1d6)

(4) = 4

Alice Initiative roll - (1d6+1)

(1) + 1 = 2

Eltrezar Initiative roll - (1d6-1)

(6) - 1 = 5

Elmo Initiative roll - (1d6+1)

(4) + 1 = 5

Brigand Group Initiative Roll - (1d6)

(6) = 6

Brigand Target Selection - (1d5)

(2) = 2

Brigand #3 Attack roll, Crossbow Damage roll - (1d20, 1d6+1)

1d20 : (1) = 1

1d6+1 : (4) + 1 = 5

Dec 18, 2020 1:50 am
OOC:
So I take it they are not taking my offer of surrender?

KCC

Dec 18, 2020 1:59 am
Gilly looses her arrow, and it clacks against the stone. She sees the guard peering down the sights at her. Wincing, she awaits the impact that never comes. She lets out the breath she had been holding. Phew! She immediately nocks another arrow and bursts up out of the brush to take her shot at the new face in the hole!

Phew. That was close. This is scary!

Rolls

Attack - (1d20+4)

(14) + 4 = 18

Damage - (1d6)

(4) = 4

Dec 18, 2020 4:01 am
Quote:
So I take it they are not taking my offer of surrender?
OOC:
I won't reveal the Morale roll I made after the first brigand was taken out by Kelric, but they do not seem interested in a surrender.
Gilly's arrow hits the brigand in the chest, and yet again he falls. The tangle of arrow-pocked bodies at the hole in the wall is getting rather silly looking here. Form inside you here someone say, "That hole is a death trap, boss. Every man that peers through os getting shot to death!"

In reply, the same harsh voice you heard before shouts, "Don't worry about the damn hole, help be with this brace and let's go!"

The hole on the Moathouse wall is currently unoccupied, and Elmo spurs his horse on, passing to the left of Coulson's horse, and charging through the moat's water.
OOC:
Because Elmo ran through the moat, his horse's double move was cut by half and he only went 40'.
https://i.imgur.com/cKWDOZS.png

Turn order is as follows:
1. Gilly, Brigand Group (6)
-->2. Eltrezar, Elmo (5)
3. Angel, Coulson, Kelric
4. Alice
Dec 18, 2020 4:13 am
Eltrezar continues to ride along, waiting for his opportune moment to attack!
Dec 18, 2020 7:52 am
OOC:
Next up:
1. Gilly, Brigand Group (6)
2. Eltrezar, Elmo (5)
-->3. Angel, Coulson, Kelric
4. Alice
Dec 18, 2020 12:39 pm
Coulson spurs the horse onwards, towards the wall in a straight line (EE12)
"Sister" He calls over his shoulder as they ride "I can fit through that hole and plug that gap, if you want to take the ‘orse back around to the main gate, or to one o’ them piles o rubble, an’ we can try outflank them"
Dec 18, 2020 2:10 pm
"Your plan is good, but I would not divide our forces so much when the enemy's number is not known. We four can ride to the gate together while the archers hold the hole."
Last edited December 18, 2020 2:10 pm
Dec 18, 2020 2:24 pm
In that case, Coulson and Alice ride around to the gate
Dec 18, 2020 4:23 pm
"Elmo, Eltrezar, with us" Alice says not too loudly to the pair as Coulson wheels the horse around.

Alice flashes a look to Gilly, Angel and Kelric and makes a hand motion that reads: hold your ground, we will cut them off.
Dec 18, 2020 7:02 pm
OOC:
Am I correct to assume that you're running the warhorses to main gate double-time? And just so I'm prepared, are you racing your horses over the old drawbridge and right through the front doors to face anything you might find mounted, or are you are you dismounting at some point and approaching on foot?
Dec 18, 2020 7:11 pm
OOC:
Eltrezar is going to let Elmo direct the horse, and they're both following Alice's lead.
Dec 18, 2020 7:29 pm
OOC:
Alright sounds good.
Next up:
1. Gilly, Brigand Group (6)
2. Eltrezar, Elmo (5)
-->3. Angel, Coulson, Kelric
4. Alice
Dec 18, 2020 8:21 pm
Angel carefully approaches the hole with an arrow knocked. He will not enter the hole and will seek as much cover as possible at its edge. When Kelric approaches he says to him, "I'm not so good at fighting up close. I imagine you're better at that. Sneaking in now probably would not work."
Dec 18, 2020 8:46 pm
OOC:
Alright, I moved Angel 40' closer to the hole. Unless you want to swim in chest deep or higher water there's some stones that can be hopped across at KK13. If you wanted to make a double-time run to get all the way to the wall on this turn let me know and I'll move him closer.
https://i.imgur.com/NiRStMB.png

In the meantime, if Shadowace doesn't post for Kelric today, I'll move him tomorrow to be near Angel somewhere.

Turn order is:
1. Gilly, Brigand Group (6)
2. Eltrezar, Elmo (5)
-->3. Angel, Coulson, Kelric
4. Alice
Dec 19, 2020 12:02 am
OOC:
yes, we four on horse double time it back to the front gate and charge through on horseback to face the enemy mounted.
Last edited December 19, 2020 12:03 am
Dec 19, 2020 2:44 am
Kelric with an arrow raised and ready to fire at anything that comes out the hole, walks towards Angel. Aye, I'm ok at close combat, let's wait a moment and see if that warhorse flushes any of them out.
Dec 19, 2020 10:22 am
OOC:
as Dom said, he read my intention correctly. Coulson will have his lance couched at the ready (I think that’s the term). While our archers are harrying them at the hole, we storm in at the side/rear to take the fight to them
Dec 19, 2020 9:53 pm
Kelric keeps his bow trained on the hole, but his heavy armor makes him quite a bit slower than Angel. Still he advances as close as he can ready for any rats to get flushed out.

Alice holds tight to Coulson's mount, ready to race over the drawbridge and through the gates.
OOC:
Round 2 ends. Round three begins with the "sniper group watching the hole for any more activity. Elmo is fixing to wheel his warhorse around and follow Coulson and alice, who have raced full speed around the corner and out of sight of the rest of the party.
https://i.imgur.com/Hm9BYsB.png
https://i.imgur.com/KJwC6dV.png

Turn order is as follows:
-->1. Gilly (7)
2. Kelric (6)
3. Angel, Elmo, Brigands (5)
4. Coulson, Eltrezar (4)
5. Alice (2)

Rolls

Angel Initiative roll - (1d6+1)

(4) + 1 = 5

Gilly Initiative roll - (1d6+2)

(5) + 2 = 7

Coulson Initiative roll - (1d6+1)

(3) + 1 = 4

Kelric Initiative roll - (1d6)

(6) = 6

Alice Initiative roll - (1d6+1)

(1) + 1 = 2

Eltrezar Initiative roll - (1d6-1)

(5) - 1 = 4

Elmo Initiative roll - (1d6+1)

(4) + 1 = 5

Brigand Group Initiative Roll - (1d6)

(5) = 5

Dec 19, 2020 9:58 pm
OOC:
Angel is just fine where he is.
Dec 19, 2020 10:37 pm
Quote:
Angel is just fine where he is.
OOC:
I assume this was in my last post, during Round 2, about moving him forward if he wanted to run. That said, After Kelric and Gilly, he can move and act as you see fit for this round.

KCC

Dec 19, 2020 11:59 pm
Seeing as how others have the hole covered, should something jump out, Gilly is going to use all of her movement to run this turn.
OOC:
I imagine LL15, KK15, JJ14 to cross the water, and the rest of my move should be enough to get up beside the hole. I’m tying to sneak up there to see if I can see or hear anything.,
Dec 20, 2020 8:57 pm
Gilly crosses the mote via the stepping stones and runs up to the hole.

funfungiguy sent a note to KCC69
OOC:
Gilly has only used her turn to Move 35' so far. She is at the hole peering inside. If she would like to move an additional 5', or use her action to move up to 45' more, or use her action for something else she can before we move on this round.

KCC

Dec 20, 2020 11:28 pm
OOC:
I will move back down 5’ so as to give someone else space.
Gilly creeps away from the hole. She motions to her companions in hiding.

Finger to lips - shhhh
Five fingers up
Pointing inside the hole
OOC:
And I’ll finish my turn there and wait for backup
Last edited December 20, 2020 11:28 pm
Dec 21, 2020 1:00 am
OOC:
I'll move your Gilly south 1 square.
Turn order is as follows:
1. Gilly (7)
-->2. Kelric (6)
3. Angel, Elmo, Brigands (5)
4. Coulson, Eltrezar (4)
5. Alice (2)
Dec 21, 2020 5:35 pm
OOC:
I'll play Kelric as an NPC to keep the game chugging along. All I did was have him make a full running move to approach the hole. He's not blocking the hole if another PC wants to approach or enter. I also am going to post what technically only Gilly saw, but since she's given the party a heads up as to what's inside, I'm fine with you seeing the layout.
https://i.imgur.com/TOA65Qz.png
OOC:
Round 3 continues with turn order is as follows:
1. Gilly (7)
2. Kelric (6)
-->3. Angel, Elmo, Brigands (5)
4. Coulson, Eltrezar (4)
5. Alice (2)
Dec 21, 2020 6:23 pm
OOC:
Feel free to shoot them through the hole y'all...
Dec 21, 2020 6:42 pm
OOC:
The only reason I didn't have Kelric do that is because he had to use his full run to get up there, and wouldn't have been able to shoot this round. Furthermore he'd have been blocking the hole, preventing anyone else to attack, so I opted to move him to just off to the side in case someone else wishes to try this on their turn.
Dec 21, 2020 7:46 pm
OOC:
I am assuming that the interior is too dark for Angel to make out any details like individual brigands.
He will approach the opening slowly but will be prepared to fire.
Dec 21, 2020 9:46 pm
Angel walks up to the hole in the wall and cautiously peers inside. A couple of torches set in wall sconces are lit and Angel sees five brigands have pulled a wooden brace away from the door they had used to barricade the room from the inside. There's a number of bedrolls and gear strewn around that would indicate they had been using this room as their hideout fir a while. None of the men notice Angel yet, so intent are they on splitting out through the door.
OOC:
Angel is on GG11 at the hole in the wall. He has moved 15' so far and has an Action still if he would like to take it.
Dec 22, 2020 2:30 am
OOC:
That sounds like what Kelric would do :). Weekend are tough, thanks for moving it along.
Dec 26, 2020 5:46 pm
OOC:
Hey everyone! Hope you all had a good Christmas or any other holidays you celebrate! Speed bump is over, and I gave it some time to see if Angel wanted to take an Action or use any of the rest of his move, but since we haven't heard back, we'll pick it back up with Angel standing in the doorway having observed the brigands, and now the brigands make their turn.
As Angel looks inside the room he sees the brigands throw the room's barricade to the side and exit out the door. The first man at the door begins rushing out the room as another man standing right next to him looks over makes to raise a crossbow at Angel. But before he can squeeze the trigger the man who fled the room first reaches back, grabs the crossbowman by the collar of his leather armor, and pulls him out with him. Every other brigand follows suit of the first man and rushes out the door, and now the room is vacant.
OOC:
Round 3 continues with turn order is as follows:
1. Gilly (7)
2. Kelric (6)
3. Angel, Elmo, Brigands (5)
-->4. Coulson, Eltrezar (4)
5. Alice (2)
Coulson is currently at Y35. He's riding a warhorse, so sit has 40' movement (80' if he runs).
https://i.imgur.com/KJwC6dV.png
Dec 26, 2020 9:08 pm
OOC:
Is Elmo and Eltrezar not right behind us?
Dec 26, 2020 10:43 pm
OOC:
No. In round 2 Elmo and Eltrezar had their turn first and used his turn it to run his horse up towards the hole. Afterward Coulson and Alice decided that they wanted to wheel their horse around and head for the drawbridge, which they used to double-time back the direction they came.

Elmo and Eltrezar have since turned around, and followed after, but they're considerably further behind because of the head start Coulson and Alice had on them.
Dec 26, 2020 11:25 pm
OOC:
Got it, thanks for the clarification ;)
Dec 27, 2020 2:33 am
Eltrezar urges Elmo to hurry along, there were bandits to be slain, forts to be freed, and maidens to be saved! Perhaps not all to be found here, but a wizard can dream.
Dec 27, 2020 9:43 am
Coulson urges his steed into another gallop, determined to get to the gate, to stop these bandits leaving
Dec 27, 2020 6:28 pm
Previously posted as a secret note:
Quote:
Coulson races his warhorse on, skirting along the edge of the moat and through the felled tree blocking the road leading to the moathouse, finally crossing the drawbridge. As the dwarf and his companion cross they both see rotted planks and makeshift patchwork boards under the mounts heavy hooves clatter and rattle. Before you the moathouse gates await.
Quote:
The door is hanging open on one greathinge, the other is splintered and holed but still in position, wedged and shored closed from the inside.
https://i.imgur.com/zZbhaGh.png
OOC:
It's Alice's turn. If she's just going to stay on the horse and wait to enter with Coulson on the horse's next turn we can pass.
Theoretically, Alice could dismount as a free Action and move and act this round, but since the horse is running at full gallop I would argue that Alice would have to make a pretty tricky Dexterity roll to stay on her feet (seeing as she's in full plate armor, I'd apply a penalty of +4 to your roll). If she succeeds her dexterity roll, she stays on her feet and can move and act however you see fit. If you fail the Dexterity roll I'd argue that Alice falls prone on the ground.
OOC:
Round 3 will wrap up with Alice. Turn order as follows:
1. Gilly (7)
2. Kelric (6)
3. Angel, Elmo, Brigands (5)
4. Coulson, Eltrezar (4)
-->5. Alice (2)

Rolls

Secret Roll

Dec 27, 2020 7:51 pm
OOC:
Nope, Alice is gonna ride the whole way in with Coulson
Dec 27, 2020 8:13 pm
OOC:
Round 3 ends; Round 4 begins!

Turn order is as follows:
-->1. Gilly (7)
2. Brigands (6)
3. Angel, Coulson (5)
4. Alice, Eltrezar (4)
5. Kelric (3)
6. Elmo (2)
(Jeez... I have to imagine Eltrezar is going to be about ready to set Elmo's horse's tail on fire by this point.)

Angel is currently occupying the space where the hole in the wall is (HH11). I'm fine with PCs passing through a friendly PC's space during movement as long as the PC don't stop on an occupied space. So if Gilly wishes to enter the room, she can slip past Angel, but she must move from HH11 to FF10 to pass through the hole in the wall.

If anyone enters the room, Angel saw the brigands flee through a door south of the spaces that occupy AA8 and BB8.
https://i.imgur.com/kSHGGZo.png

Rolls

Angel Initiative roll - (1d6+1)

(4) + 1 = 5

Gilly Initiative roll - (1d6+2)

(5) + 2 = 7

Coulson Initiative roll - (1d6+1)

(4) + 1 = 5

Kelric Initiative roll - (1d6)

(3) = 3

Alice Initiative roll - (1d6+1)

(3) + 1 = 4

Eltrezar Initiative roll - (1d6-1)

(5) - 1 = 4

Elmo Initiative roll - (1d6+1)

(1) + 1 = 2

Brigand Group Initiative Roll - (1d6)

(6) = 6

KCC

Dec 28, 2020 12:16 am
Gilly scrambles though the hole, after hearing the commotion inside. She moves as far in as is possible, following where she knows the bandits would have gone out.

IF A) the path diverges into two ways, she will wait for backup. The chase is on, but we need time for the others to close the net, and one Halfling doesn’t make for much of a chase!

IF B) she spots one of the brigands along the corridor, she will kneel down onto the stone, and fire at the one that’s trailing the group!
OOC:
As I don’t know whats beyond the door they left, I will let the DM tell me which action is appropriate!
Last edited December 28, 2020 12:18 am

Rolls

Attack, if possible! - (1d20+3)

(20) + 3 = 23

Damage - (1d6)

(3) = 3

Dec 28, 2020 12:23 am
OOC:
Apologies for the delay. Got home last night and had some stuff to take care of. Anyhoo...
Gilly enters the room. The chamber is floored in black flag-stones, and has ebon-colored wall hangings (now burnt and tattered) in addition to the piles of jumbled wreckage lying about. The brigands have pitched bedrolls in odd corners, and the remains of fires can be noted in the northern fireplace. This black chamber appears to have once served as the quarters of the lord of the castle. In the southwest corner of the room a newly repaired door stands ajar, and a makeshift barricade made of heavy planks has been thrown to the side.
As Gilly crosses the room she approaches the door with her bow drawn she immediately finds four brigands before her. Two of them have just mounted riding horses of their own while two are running to their own horses, their backs turned to Gilly in their rush to grab their animals and escape. The little halfling snaps off a shot, deftly striking one in the torso.
https://i.imgur.com/Yz2NcC4.png
OOC:
Gilly moved 30' to get to the door. If she would like to move 10' more let me know. In the meantime, from where she stands Gilly has the option of four targets to choose from. They are Brigands #6 through #9. Brigands #8 and #9 are astride their horses already. #6 and #7 are running to get to their own mounts. Whichever brigand you choose is hit on your Natural-20 roll, but not all have the same Hit Points.

KCC

Dec 29, 2020 5:38 am
OOC:
Gilly will fire at #8, atop his horse!
Dec 29, 2020 5:53 pm
OOC:
A good choice.
Gilly's arrow pierces the mounted brigand's chest and he topples off his horse dead. His animal barely seems to notice. The other mounted brigand takes off heading somewhere southwest and Gilly swears she hears more than one set of hooves clattering on the stone floor. The other two men rush to their steeds and mount them.
https://i.imgur.com/gh2uThV.png

Meanwhile, as Coulson and Alice are rushing into the castle they hear the sound of hooves approaching. Suddenly a mounted rider appears at the door and seeing his way blocked by the warhorse before him, swings his short sword at the dwarf in front. The blade slashes across Coulson's arm opening a nasty gash.

https://i.imgur.com/LVDgrIH.png
OOC:
Wow... Wise call on the Nat-20 damage decision. Coulson takes 2HP damage and has 6 HP remaining by my sheet.
Turn order is as follows:
1. Gilly (7)
2. Brigands (6)
-->3. Angel, Coulson (5)
4. Alice, Eltrezar (4)
5. Kelric (3)
6. Elmo (2)

Rolls

Brigand #9 Attack roll, Short Sword Damage roll - (1d20, 1d6)

1d20 : (20) = 20

1d6 : (2) = 2

Dec 29, 2020 5:59 pm
"Throw down your arms and you may yet live, you curs! Surrender this instant or it's death for all of you!" Alice snarls at the man as he clips the dwarf.
Dec 29, 2020 10:48 pm
Angel rushes up behind Gilly as she let's an arrow fly. Not knowing what others are doing he says, "Great shot, Gilly. Let's be after them before they escape." Angel takes off again running his bow held loosely in his left hand and a pair of arrows in his right.
Dec 29, 2020 11:19 pm
OOC:
@Aldrusian: Give me an hour or so to get home and post what Angel sees as he dashes throughbthe door past Gilly.
Dec 30, 2020 3:02 am
OOC:
Seeing as how there are no enemies visible (living ones, at least), Eltrezar will be holding his turn until Elmo's turn. Hopefully there will be someone willing to hold one of my daggers by then.
Dec 30, 2020 7:56 am
As the slice comes in from the bandit, Coulsons horse tears up slightly, and he in turn brings his sword down towards the attacker in a long overhand chop

Rolls

Attack - (1d20+2)

(20) + 2 = 22

Damage - (1d8)

(8) = 8

Dec 30, 2020 7:41 pm
OOC:
Good lord, let's save some Nat-20s for the next round, eh?
Coulson brings his sword down in an overhand chop and the blade sinke nearly six inches into the crook of the man's neck. Blood sprays in an impressive jet as the man topples to the ground nearly fully decapitated.

Meanwhile, in another part of the castle, Angel rushes into the black chamber and past Gilly through the door.
Quote:
This was once a great audience chamber, as shown by the tattered banners and tapestries on the walls, destroyed furniture, and heaps of rotting cloth thrown into corners. Once richly appointed, it has been thoroughly searched, sacked,and despoiled. Leaves and dirt cover the floor, and cobwebs hang from walls and the ceiling above. Looking up, you see that pieces of beams and chunks of stone poke through, indicating that the upper stories of the place are totally destroyed and likely to be impassable to anything larger than a rat.
To angel's south two brigands have just mounted their horses in preparation to escape following two more horses fleeing the castle to the southwest. One of the horses at the southwest is a warhorse with two riders mounted on it. In the very far southwest corner of the room a door leads outside to the drawbridge and Angel sees a fifth rider suddenly felled by a Coulson's sword blade to the neck, though Coulson is obscured by a broken, ramshackle door...
OOC:
Angel has moved 30'. He can move another ten feet if he wishes. If he chooses to attack he can hit any of the four riders, however the ones to the southwest have descended a set of stone stairs, and because of the angle of the steps they will be a bit harder to hit, incurring a -2 penalty to the shot.
Dec 30, 2020 8:32 pm
Angel will move further if he can and still put an arrow in the back of the nearest rider thinking one less sword against them is always a boon no matter who it is.

Rolls

Attack closest brigand with bow - (1d20+2)

(16) + 2 = 18

damage from arrow - (1d6)

(3) = 3

Dec 31, 2020 12:07 am
Angel enters the room and fires off an at one of the closest riders who gives a grunt as the arrow hits the man in the stomach.
OOC:
The arrow hits the brigand on AA17. The shot hurts him but he's still alive.
https://i.imgur.com/4Clt4gO.png

Round 4 continues. Turn order is as follows:
1. Gilly (7)
2. Brigands (6)
3. Angel, Coulson (5)
-->4. Alice, Eltrezar (4)
5. Kelric (3)
6. Elmo (2)

I realize Eltrezar is going to hold his turn until Elmo moves, but another option is that he could hop off the horse now and follow the sniper team in the castle hole if he's hungry for some action.
Dec 31, 2020 2:35 am
OOC:
I assume the two remaining bandits have not yielded to Alice's offer of surrender?
Dec 31, 2020 2:42 am
OOC:
Eltrezar definitely feels more comfortable behind the wall of iron, not hanging around the squishies. He'll keep on riding, wind blowing through his beard.
Dec 31, 2020 2:54 am
Hearing no surrender from the bandits, Alice dismounts and leaps into range of the lead thug. She spins her sling overhead and whips a stone at the man with lethal intent...
OOC:
Dismount and move to M26 then sling attack on the closest bandit

Rolls

Attack - (1d20+2)

(9) + 2 = 11

Damage - (1d4)

(3) = 3

Dec 31, 2020 6:04 am
OOC:
@dominion451: If they heard Alice, they haven't acknowledged her. They seem intent on escape for the moment, but once half an enemy's numbers are brought down the DM makes a Morale Check at the beginning of the next round.
Alice hurls a stone at the approaching brigands but it sails off the mark and clatters uselessly against the littered stairs leading to the great hall.
OOC:
Round 4 continues. Turn order is as follows:
1. Gilly (7)
2. Brigands (6)
3. Angel, Coulson (5)
4. Alice, Eltrezar (4)
-->5. Kelric (3)
6. Elmo (2)
Dec 31, 2020 11:21 pm
Seeing the other ranged attackers rush through the hole on the castle wall, Kelric dashes through as well. His heavy armor makes him slower than the others and after finding the Black Chamber empty, he continues past Gilly and on into the Grand Hall.
OOC:
From here on out I'll be RPing Kelric as an NPC for Part 3. Because of his plate armor, it required a double move action to get inside the grand hall where all the action is even taking place. That means that he's unable to act this round again, but at least he's set himself up to attack next round, assuming the initiative roll is good to him.
https://i.imgur.com/QwiC8KC.png

Meanwhile, Elmo wheels his warhorse around and gives the animal hard spurs to its flanks. It dashes along the eastern side of the wall and hits the southeast corner.
OOC:
Round 4 ends; Round 5 begins! Turn order is as follows:
-->1. Gilly (7)
2. Angel, Kelric (6)
3. Alice (5)
4. Brigand #6 (4)
5. Coulson, Elmo (3)
6. Eltrezar, Brigand #4, Brigand #7 (2)
7. Brigand #5 (1)

Rolls

Angel Initiative roll - (1d6+1)

(5) + 1 = 6

Gilly Initiative roll - (1d6+2)

(5) + 2 = 7

Coulson Initiative roll - (1d6+1)

(2) + 1 = 3

Kelric Initiative roll - (1d6)

(6) = 6

Alice Initiative roll - (1d6+1)

(4) + 1 = 5

Eltrezar Initiative roll - (1d6-1)

(3) - 1 = 2

Elmo Initiative roll - (1d6+1)

(2) + 1 = 3

Brigand #4 Initiative roll - (1d6)

(2) = 2

Brigand #5 Initiative roll - (1d6)

(1) = 1

Brigand #6 Initiative roll - (1d6)

(4) = 4

Brigand #7 Initiative roll - (1d6)

(2) = 2

Secret Roll

KCC

Jan 1, 2021 1:27 am
Seeing the others move by her, Gilly pushes off from where she had been crouched and scoots forward to catch up with the others.
She runs up to the debris at Y14, and takes a shot at one of the mounted enemies to her south at Z18. She crouches behind the cover, lines up her shot, and fires!
Last edited January 1, 2021 1:27 am

Rolls

1d20+3

(12) + 3 = 15

1d6

(5) = 5

Jan 1, 2021 2:28 am
Gilly advances forward and snaps off another shot. The arrow pierces the chest of the brigand and he give's a grunt, slumps forward, and tumbles off his horse.
OOC:
Gilly is lethal this encounter!

Round 5 continues! Turn order is as follows:
1. Gilly (7)
-->2. Angel, Kelric (6)
3. Alice (5)
4. Brigand #6 (4)
5. Coulson, Elmo (3)
6. Eltrezar, Brigand #4, Brigand #7 (2)
7. Brigand #5 (1)
Jan 1, 2021 6:56 pm
Dashing through the door, Kelric looks around and takes a only split second to survey the situation. To his south is a man mounted on horse back about to flee. To his southwest, two men mounted on a warhorse are charging towards Alice. Seeing the two men about to run down alice, and knowing his longer bow is better suited for distant targets than his companions' short bows, he rushes forward and snaps off a shot at the man on the back of the war horse.
Unfortunately, in his rush to shoot the arrow slips clumsily from the bow's arrow shelf and clatters to the stone floor.
OOC:
Round 5 continues! Turn order is as follows:
1. Gilly (7)
-->2. Angel, Kelric (6)
3. Alice (5)
4. Brigand #6 (4)
5. Coulson, Elmo (3)
6. Eltrezar, Brigand #4, Brigand #7 (2)
7. Brigand #5 (1)

Rolls

Kelric Ranged Attack roll, Longbow Damage roll - (1d20+1, 1d6)

1d20+1 : (1) + 1 = 2

1d6 : (6) = 6

Jan 1, 2021 8:15 pm
Angel lines up a shot at the horsed bringand at AA17 and looses one more arrow. Without watching to see if he has hit, he begins to move double time toward the stairs after the other two who had escaped that way.

Rolls

Attack rider at AA17 with bow - (1d20+2)

(13) + 2 = 15

Damage - (1d6)

(4) = 4

Jan 2, 2021 3:21 pm
Angel releases an arrow at the last brigand at the top of the stairs. The shot hits just above the collar of the man's chain shirt and he falls off his horse dead. He then runs down the stairs, chasing after the last two brigands.
OOC:
Round 5 continues! Turn order is as follows:
1. Gilly (7)
2. Angel, Kelric (6)
-->3. Alice (5)
4. Brigand #6 (4)
5. Coulson, Elmo (3)
6. Eltrezar, Brigand #4, Brigand #7 (2)
7. Brigand #5 (1)

Alice is up. The only two remaining brigands are riding atop a black warhorse charging for the door and anyone who gets in their way.
Jan 2, 2021 5:19 pm
Alice loads another stone into her sling and twirls it overhead before sending it streaking towards the lead bandit...

Rolls

Attack - (1d20+2)

(14) + 2 = 16

Damage - (1d4)

(4) = 4

Jan 2, 2021 7:10 pm
Alice's stone sails across the room and strikes the lead bandit directly in the forehead.
"Ughh..", he grunts as his head snaps back, and for a moment he appears to lose his balance. But before he goes toppling over and off his saddle, he regains himself and grabs his horse's reins.

Seeing the door blocked by another fallen brigand's horse, and fully aware that stalling at the bottleneck is sure to result in more abuse from the cleric woman standing ready, the brigand seems intent on spurring his warhorse directly towards Alice.
OOC:
Round 5 continues! Turn order is as follows:
1. Gilly (7)
2. Angel, Kelric (6)
3. Alice (5)
4. Brigand #6 (4)
-->5. Coulson, Elmo (3)
6. Eltrezar, Brigand #4, Brigand #7 (2)
7. Brigand #5 (1)
Jan 2, 2021 10:20 pm
Coulson puts spurs to his warhorses flank, Coulson couches his lance and charges at the brigands on horseback
OOC:
i think it works out to 60’ which should be charge distance for lance

Rolls

Attack - (1d20+2)

(2) + 2 = 4

Damage (lance, x2 if successful) - (1d6)

(1) = 1

Jan 3, 2021 8:40 pm
Coulson rushes his horse forward and tries to lance the brigand off his horse but his first time with a lance is awkward and he isn't used to the jostling of the horse throwing the weapon's far end about, and the attack misses.

Seeing that the way to the drawbridge is no longer barred by enemies, a sneer flashes in the brigand's face as he quickly slashes at the dwarf with his longsword in retaliation, then puts spurs to his own mount rushing past Alice to get outside the moathouse.
OOC:
Oh jeez... Coulson! Not again...
Alice sees the two men atop the warhorse race past, the man controlling the animal gives a bark of laughter as he passes. You hear the clatter of the horse's hooves on the drawbridge outside. Behind her a loud "CLANG" sounds, and she turns to see her dwarven companion lying on the floor, blood gushing from a perfect slash across his throat.

Outside, Elmo and Eltrezar see a warhorse mounted by two riders exit the castle. It's just crossing the drawbridge as Elmo and the wizard cross over the shallows of the moat and onto the road prepared to intercept the oncoming brigands.

https://i.imgur.com/OOfog2C.png
OOC:
Round 5 continues! Turn order is as follows:
1. Gilly (7)
2. Angel, Kelric (6)
3. Alice (5)
4. Brigand #6 (4)
5. Coulson, Elmo (3)
-->6. Eltrezar, Brigand #4, Brigand #7 (2)
7. Brigand #5 (1)

I currently have Coulson at 0HP. On his next turn he will be allowed a Death Save. He's passed one already against the Gnolls, and dwarves are a hardy people. There's still hope...

In the meantime, Elmo has arrived to meet the brigands who are crossing the drawbridge at L28 and drawn his horse to a halt. Eltrezar, on the back of the horse on space Q35 has a clear view of both brigands racing across the rickety drawbridge.

Rolls

Brigand #4 Attack roll, Long Sword Damage roll - (1d20, 1d8)

1d20 : (18) = 18

1d8 : (6) = 6

Secret Roll

Jan 4, 2021 12:02 am
"Slow it down, you drunkard!" Eltrezar shouts as he hops off the horse, dagger in hand. Seeing the fleeing bandits, the wizard moves towards them with the intention of slowing them down. He aims his dagger at the horse and throws, and then begins the timely process of summoning arcane energies.
OOC:
Eltrezar dismounts and moves to N30, throwing his dagger at the warhorse.

Rolls

Attack: Thrown Dagger - (1d20-1)

(15) - 1 = 14

Damage: Thrown Dagger - (1d4-1)

(1) - 1 = 0

Jan 4, 2021 5:00 pm
Ruching forward Eltrezar hurls one of his daggers, which strikes the horse's left flank, not so much piercing directly in perpendicular to the animal, but at more of a parallel angle embedding itself under the skin like a splinter, cutting some muscle underneath but little else, and none that a trained horse like this would acknowledge.
OOC:
@charles.c.cowley: Just for clarification, modifiers to Damage rolls are only applied to melee attacks, in which case you use Strength. In ranged attacks, regardless if the attacker is shooting or throwing, Dexterity Modifier is applied to the To-Hit roll, like you did, but there's no modifiers to the Damage roll. So that dagger did 1HP damage to the horse, you monster...

The final brigand is armed with a short sword right now, but he seems uninterested in dismounting the back of the warhorse he's riding on to approach Eltrezar for an attack, knowing he'd be surrounded by his enemies while the other one likely flees without him. And since the horse he's on is currently running across the drawbridge, I think he'd be willing to risk a running dismount even if he was going to attack Eltrezar anyway, considering the likely result is faceplanting in the dirt and lying prone. Therefore, Brigand #5 forfeits his turn this and Round 5 concludes.

Round 6 begins! Turn order is as follows:
-->1. Elmo (7)
2. Coulson Brigand #5 (6)
3. Angel, Eltrezar (5)
4. Gilly, Kelric (4)
5. Alice (3)
6. Brigand #4 (2)
Elmo spurs his horse forward to intercept the fleeing bandits, approaching the othwer warhorse from its right. As the brigands make to race across the bridge, Elmo sends his axe head sailing straight for the man in front, which slams into the chest plate of the fleeing brigand's horse, deftly, and uncharacteristically for a man as drunk as Elmo appears to be, cleaving the man's heart in two. The man is dead before he topples off his horse, which immediately stops dead in its tracks, and gives a scared whinny of fear, having no rider to give it further commands. Two white eyes, full of fear, now shine through the bloodsoaked face of the man riding on back. "I yield! Please, I yield!!!"
OOC:
Round 6 continues. Turn order is as follows:
1. Elmo (7)
-->2. Coulson, Brigand #5 (6)
3. Angel, Eltrezar (5)
4. Gilly, Kelric (4)
5. Alice (3)
6. Brigand #4 (2)

Coulson must make a Death Save and needs an "8" or better to survive... (Everyone think dwarfey thoughts... Dwarfey thoughts...)

Rolls

Angel Initiative roll - (1d6+1)

(4) + 1 = 5

Gilly Initiative roll - (1d6+2)

(2) + 2 = 4

Coulson Initiative roll - (1d6+1)

(5) + 1 = 6

Kelric Initiative roll - (1d6)

(4) = 4

Alice Initiative roll - (1d6+1)

(2) + 1 = 3

Eltrezar Initiative roll - (1d6-1)

(6) - 1 = 5

Elmo Initiative roll - (1d6+1)

(6) + 1 = 7

Brigand #4 Initiative roll - (1d6)

(2) = 2

Brigand #5 Initiative roll - (1d6)

(6) = 6

Elmo Attack roll, Damage roll - (1d20+4, 1d8+4)

1d20+4 : (20) + 4 = 24

1d8+4 : (4) + 4 = 8

Secret Roll

Jan 4, 2021 5:25 pm
OOC:
Eltrezar is going to try casting a Magic Missile this turn. If I have to declare a target at initiative, then he'll aim at Brigand #4.
The horse didn't seem phased by the damage.
Jan 4, 2021 5:41 pm
charles.c.cowley says:
OOC:
Eltrezar is going to try casting a Magic Missile this turn. If I have to declare a target at initiative, then he'll aim at Brigand #4.
OOC:
Just double checked the rulebook... "Unless otherwise noted in a spell’s description, a spell caster must have the intended target (a specific monster, character, or area of effect) within visual range."
It doesn't specifically say you have to have an intended target at the beginning of your casting, just that when you do cast, the target has to be within sight. So I'm going to say that Eltrezar can pick a target when his turn comes up.
charles.c.cowley says:
OOC:
The horse didn't seem phased by the damage.
OOC:
He did take 1HP Damage, but as a warhorse, they're pretty accustomed to maintain discipline in combat.
Jan 4, 2021 5:48 pm
OOC:
Oh nice, free warhorses!
Jan 4, 2021 6:19 pm
OOC:
Since Brigand #5 yields, do we want to stop combat turn orders and go into free roleplay. If so, any party member is still free to attack the brigand or cast any spells at him if they choose not to accept his surrender. Or we can continue wth turn order for a while longer.
Jan 4, 2021 6:32 pm
OOC:
If the bandit is yielding, Eltrezar is more than happy to accept his surrender. And his wallet. And his horse. And his sword.
And, well, everything.
Jan 4, 2021 9:32 pm
Alice rushes over to Coulson and tries to stop the bleeding in his neck. The task seems grisly and daunting considering the damage done, but Alice would not see this dwarf die twice under her care.

"Hobble that man Mister Elmo! And has anyone a gift for healing?"
Jan 5, 2021 9:53 am
Death save

Rolls

Death save - (1d20)

(6) = 6

Jan 5, 2021 10:07 am
Coulson lies on his back, seeing Sister Alice above him, his life’s blood spurting out into her face as she throttles him to try and stem the bleeding
"Grghghrgrhhugh" he gurgles at Alice "Blughrrhedh furgle glub" he coughs more blood into her face as he tries to communicate his final thoughts
Jan 5, 2021 5:04 pm
https://i.imgur.com/P5LZPd1.jpg
As he struggles to get his last words out his vision darkens at the peripherals, and his fingers and toes begin to feel as if they've been dipped in an icy stream. The cold washes over his appendages and through his core as the warmth of his life runs out his open neck. As the darkness tunnels in and finally closes in, the last thing he sees is the face of his friend, Sister Alice...
Jan 5, 2021 5:06 pm
"Be still Coulson, don't speak. You did a fine job, you are truly fearless and Saint Cuthbert will welcome you into his kingdom with open arms."

As the dwarf's life slips away, Alice prays to her lord for mercy.

"Righteous father, blessed is he who spills his blood on behalf of the weak. Judge this man mercifully and if it is his time then bring him quickly to your kingdom, but if his task be not finished return him to us to fight against darkness once more!"
Jan 5, 2021 5:15 pm
Alice closes the dwarfs lifeless eyes and makes the sign of her faith above him, folding his arms over his chest with his weapon between them.

Then she turns her head to the captive bandit...

Alice quickly rises and marches over to where Elmo is holding the man, weapon in hand.

"On his knees Mister Elmo!"

Alice stands before the prisoner and holds forth her medallion as she speaks.

"In the name of the righteous Saint Cuthbert I judge you guilty of crimes including arson, letchery, trespass, refusal to yield and murder. The sentence is death, what say you all in witness?

Alice looks around to her companions gathered nearby...
Jan 5, 2021 5:18 pm
The brigand begins to panic... "Wait... Wait! I yielded; I yielded!"
Jan 5, 2021 5:22 pm
Eltrezar stands silently and stoically, observing the priestess hovering over the body of her companion (of how long, the wizard did not know). It was not his place to speak. After Alice finishes her prayer, he places a hand on her shoulder and tries to add his comfort. "He died as all truly noble warriors yearn, protecting others from harm. It was a good death, as I am sure Moradin would agree. Untimely, but befitting. We shall ensure his body is taken care of properly, but for now we must ensure his death was not in vain. This encampment may still have present those wishing violence upon the village."

Seeing Sister Alice approach the bandit, Eltrezar objects to his outright murder. "This man has much to answer for, and I am sure we would be wise in asking questions first. And is your god not one of justice? There are laws in this land, and I would see that this criminal stand before the rightful law." He then turns to the bandit. "As for you, one should hope you can justify this mercy I have requested. Tell us about this camp. Tell us about your friends. Tell us about what is waiting for us inside, and what you were hoping to accomplish?"
Last edited January 5, 2021 5:25 pm
Jan 5, 2021 5:32 pm
Alice considers Eltrezar's words and hears the bandits plea for mercy.

"Good sir Eltrezar, your words are wise but my God is one of righteous vengeance and the penalty for such crimes is always death."

To the bandit she speaks,

"You did not yield either time I called for it and your resistance led to the death of one send under the charge of the town militia."

Alice looks to Elmo,

"You sir are the Captain of that militia and have the authority to pass judgement in the name of law, what say you?"
Jan 5, 2021 5:36 pm
"If it is as your god commands, then so be it. The one I answer to cares more about unnecessary folding of page corners than dealt justice. But let us at least gather information before cutting off a possible source. After all, is The Cudgel not a patron of common sense?"
Jan 5, 2021 5:46 pm
"Indeed he is Master Mage, but the common sense I find true is that a prisoner under interrogation will tell you anything if you whip him hard enough. If you would speak to this man then by all means, have at, but he must answer for the death of our man."
Jan 5, 2021 6:03 pm
"Well, man, allow me to ask my questions again. Only this time, know that certain death is in your future. If you are useful, I shall ask that the good Elmo here end you swiftly. If you are uncooperative, then I shall stand back as my enraged, justice-drunk companion bring you down with her hammer. While I have not yet been killed before, I know damn well which I would prefer. Now then. Are there any more in the moathouse, and what were you planning?"
Jan 5, 2021 7:26 pm
M- My name is Archibald. I- I was sent as personal aid to Rask..." He nods to the corpse of the man Elmo smashed with his axe. "We are but a small envoy of a larger group o' mercenaries o' sorts, called the Blackhounds. We operate just a bit outside the village o' Nulb. We was sent to observe and gather intelligence on the village o' Hommlet. First from afar... J-J-Just to see what sort o' numbers th' population 'as... What sort o' industries, businesses, imports, exports... That sort o' information... After we got ourselves a good idea f-f-from a logistical approach, we was commanded to start testing the town's defenses. Start badgerin' travelers coming to and from the village, start raiding outlying farms and stealing livestock, get a read on the town's reaction. G-Get a read on the size o' th' militia. That sort o' thing.
"Listen, I swear I'm the last... There was only ten o' us sent. There ain't no more o' us here...
"B-But listen... I can't guarantee we're alone. The Blackhounds don't 'ave no interest in the village ourselfs, see? We just a bunch o' mercenaries... Lucius Blackhoun' is runnin' the gang and he's on someone's payroll, but my job was as Rask's personal aid, and it keeps me 'ead stickin' to me shoulders t' keep my nose outta any one's business but Rask's.
"Durin' the day we usually slip out and 'andle our business at 'and. In the nights, we been usin' these ruins as our 'ideout, but we come in and barricade th' door, keep the 'ole we enter and leave through well-guarded.
"At night we be 'earin' things. Things what send chills up an' down our spines. Tha's why we keep the door well-blocked in the night...
"A while back Rask set out on 'is own after dark. I was standin' watch at the 'ole and Rask took the barricade off the door and let 'imself out. Di'n come back 'till dawn, he di'n. Seemed unsettled. Said th' sooner we get th' hell out o' this job the happier he'd be.
He also tol' me if I said a word o' 'im leavin' in the night he'd have me send me own 'ead back to Lucius meself.
"Sometimes in th' night those standin' watch 'ear strange noises... Voices seem to carry through the walls. Chantin', yellin' arguin'...
Nobody can get a read on where it be comin' from, but Rask gets mighty dark when it's brought up around 'im.

"Tha's all I know; I swear!"
, he begs. "But I could still be o' use to you! I might think up other things if you let me, maybe somethin' else will come to mind!
Jan 5, 2021 8:11 pm
After hearing the man spill his guts, likely hoping to survive this encounter, Eltrezar stands for a moment with pursed lips. He runs his fingers through his beard, and he clears his throat.

AHRMPH! "Thank you for obliging. This is all very useful information. And as promised, Elmo will mete out swift punishment. May the gods see the actions of your final moments as they judge you."
Jan 5, 2021 8:37 pm
Bound by Elmo's rope the man can only appeal to each of the party for mercy. "No! Wait! I beg you! It wasn't my choice to surrender or not! On'y Rask could make tha' call!"
He looks to Elmo and Eltrezar as Elmo readies his battle axe, "You seen it. As soon's yer axeman took out Rask, I surrendered! I woulda surrendered from the start but on'y Rask could make tha' call! I yeilded as soon's Rask was felled!!!
Jan 5, 2021 9:20 pm
"May whatever god you serve have mercy on your soul."

Alice nods to Elmo.
Jan 5, 2021 10:14 pm
Elmo nods back, and brings his axe up. The man, on his knees, catches Alice's unspoken command, and turns to look behind him, and his eyes grow wide as saucers to see his executioner's weapon raised on high.

"But who's going to feed my ca--"

The blade comes down, and the man's head rolls to Alice's feet, eyes half-lidded eyes filled with unshed tears.

Rolls

Elmo Damage roll - (1d8+4)

(4) + 4 = 8

Secret Roll

Secret Roll

Jan 5, 2021 10:29 pm
Alice looks proudly at Elmo,

"Well done, truly struck. Nasty business but God's will is justly served."

Alice pats a hand on Elmo's shoulder in comfort and then walks back to the body of Coulson. On her way she pauses, and over her shoulder says

"If anyone sees a cat, we'll take it back to the barn with us. It can grow fat on the rats therein."

The cleric wraps the body of Coulson in her cloak and then retrieves her horse, over which she lays the body of her slain comrade.
Jan 5, 2021 11:53 pm
Elmo simply nods at Alice. "Err... I aim to serve Sister Allison...", and he stumbles back to his horse to give it a rough-handed rubdown.

Previously posted as a secret note:
Quote:
Between Elmo's viciously accurate attack on Rask as they fled the Moathouse, his execution of Archibald, and his sober response to Alice's comments to him after completion, you can't help but get a strange feeling that there seems to be a clarity to the man's eyes and actions that betrays the expectations of a drunken man.

Something seems "off" to each of you...

KCC

Jan 6, 2021 12:09 am
Gilly watches the execution from somewhere further into the courtyard, sitting on the steps there perhaps.

Oh my...I didn’t expect any of this...

She looks around at the bodies that she had brought down herself. Her mind whirled for a moment. She hadn’t done anything like this before, and yet when the bolts started flying, she immediately felt the instinct to fight, and protect. Maybe she was an adventurer, she thought. What did that mean for her as a person? A Halfling...

Is it possible to witness this scene again and again and maintain the bubbly spirit of her kind?, she wondered to herself without even really realizing she was doing so.

Before picking over any of the bodies for clues, or searching the keep for any signs of life, Gilly goes over to look at Coulson. She bends down over his face, splattered with blood. She rubs the side of his face, and slightly pinches his cheeks, to ensure it’s really him. Tears start to well in her eyes for this companion that she never got a chance to fully know. And never would
Jan 6, 2021 12:32 am
OOC:
Man, you guys nail RPing...

Every brigand is dead. You stand within an unexplored castle, with a friend's dead body. It seems as of there is more to explore here, or maybe a dead companion to dispose of somewhere else.

What.... Do you do...

Where does the party go from here?
Jan 6, 2021 12:35 am
Angel helps Sister Alice with the preparation and lifting of Coulson's body then says to her, "Should Gilly and I take a look around the place to see if there is something that the brigand didn't tell us about or anything else odd?"
Last edited January 6, 2021 12:35 am
Jan 6, 2021 12:42 am
"I see you two are taking good... care... let me just..." Eltrezar mumbles as he wanders off, avoiding the tears (possibly his own). He moves back into the courtyard and begins picking through pockets while scouting the general area. 'Might as well be of use in this time. And Boccob knows I am not one of comfort.'

KCC

Jan 6, 2021 12:50 am
Gilly swallows hard to dislodge the lump forming in her throat. Not daring to speak in case her voice cracks, she nods firmly to Angel.

Could have been me...

Getting the courage up, she says:

"Ahemm... Yes, we could look over the bodies by the hole and the room. Look for stuff!"
Last edited January 6, 2021 12:51 am
Jan 6, 2021 1:01 am
Alice answers Angel in regard to searching the area,

"I do not doubt your stealth in the slightest, but I worry that the man may have lied about how many of his band were inside. I would rather we search all together for the sake of safety. I'll not loose another man today."
Jan 6, 2021 1:14 am
Alice rounds up the bandits' horses and brings her own mount along with the others' into the courtyard so they would not wander off. She gathers around with her companions and notices the fallen mood. Rightly so, she thinks.

"We need to clear the fortress, that is true, but we have lost much today and I would not push any of you. We could just as well take Coulson back to the church to be honored and return to search tomorrow. If any of you would rather take our leave, please speak, otherwise we should start with the bandits' hold out."
Jan 6, 2021 4:10 am
funfungiguy says:
OOC:
Ok so as DM, I need a feel on the plan. All ideas are good and bad and none are good or bad...

Are you returning to Hommlet? Are you putting Coulson's body aside and continuing your exploration?

Are you splitting the party?

What is the party's consensus?

KCC

Jan 6, 2021 6:02 am
OOC:
Lets spend a few more hours here before heading back before dark. Maybe before... before dark. Because we have a body to transport.

But we set out at morning time, and Coulson gave his life for this. Best we can do is investigate and check we got the job done. Take some loot, find anyone else here (a possible in for other characters, but Hommlet must be good too). And then leave if we are feeling spooked by the tales we heard.
Jan 6, 2021 6:19 am
"Let us search these bodies for anything that might lead us to their master and then check the rooms they used as their hideout."

Alice proceeds to help check the bodies of the bandits in the courtyard, working her way into the great room.
Jan 6, 2021 6:26 am
OOC:
It's currently about noon or 12:15pm-ish. Will post any corpse-loot in the morning.
Jan 7, 2021 7:41 pm
It seems that the brigands intended to flee the attacking party in a hurry, taking nothing of monetary in their scrambled attepmt at escape. After going over each of the dead brigands, you find only the following items:
4) Crossbows
1) Lance
5) Long Swords
4) Short swords
4) Chainmail Armor sets
4) Leather Armor sets
1) Plate Armor set
Note of these items are in especially great condition, and likely won't bring in much for trade.

There are however 3 riding horses, and 1 war horse. Each of these animals have that curiously familiar "branding" on their haunches.
Jan 7, 2021 8:03 pm
"All of this, it's worthless. Not even any coin. Given that they have been harassing the town, there must be more somewhere! Perhaps in that room they spoke of. I propose we collect anything of value before returning to town, and then head out. Back in town we can discuss furthering this investigation, including into whatever was spooking these simple-minded fools. But the sooner we can lay Coulson in the ground, the better."

Having spoken, Eltrezar goes to collect his daggers.
Jan 7, 2021 8:04 pm
"Nothing useful, and no documents on their bodies. Let us move into the rooms they were hiding in and continue our search."

Once the others are ready to move, Alice leads the way into the great room of the bandits hide out.
Jan 7, 2021 8:40 pm
Angel follows Sister Alice only slightly put out by her remark about his questionable stealth.
Jan 7, 2021 9:25 pm
The party gathers up in the "Black Chamber" the brigands were using as their hideout, where they begin ransacking the various bedrolls and other accoutrements the men were prepared to leave behind for the time being, and that's where the party begins to find some reward for their efforts. In each bedroll, regardless of whether it is rolled up or still spread out on the floor, you find the coin purse belonging into the bedroll's owner. Most of the purses contain only silver, but two of the bedrolls hide more. As you gather all the loot together, you find the following:

•98sp
•9ep
•2gp
•12pp
•1 citrine that looks to be of an unknown but decent value
•1 very expensive-looking gold chain

In addition, as you ransack the room, you notice the pile of rubble where the wall collapsed outside. In one spot it seems that the rubble has been stacked up in a manner that wouldn't naturally occur if the wall had simply fallen down.

Rolls

Secret Roll

Secret Roll

Secret Roll

Secret Roll

Secret Roll

Secret Roll

Jan 7, 2021 10:48 pm
OOC:
Oh no Angel! I said I DO NOT doubt your stealth lol!
Alice gathers a couple of the larger members of the party and begins to dig out the stacked rubble the bandits were clearly using to hide something important.
Jan 8, 2021 12:00 am
The rubble is thick and heavy, and it becomes evident pretty quickly that it could take as much as a half hour or longer just to clear it all away if these brigands actually buried anything in the ground below...

KCC

Jan 8, 2021 12:04 am
Gilly will join Alice in the digging, to the best of her ability.
OOC:
Many hands make light work?
Jan 8, 2021 12:24 am
OOC:
Well with a clue like "the rubble has been stacked up in a manner that wouldn't naturally occur" we definitely aren't gonna stop ;)
Jan 8, 2021 12:32 am
OOC:
Alright, alright... Just making sure you were certain you wanted to do this.
Alice and Gilly set to work moving rubble out of the way, and thirty backbreaking minutes later you've cleared the pile away and exposed a circle of disturbed and overturned dirt. As you begin digging away the soil with your hands your hands hit a burlap sack, covered in holes and seen better days, but protecting something hard within.

As you finally dig around the bag and lift it out you find within and discover a beautifully decorated, inlaid box with ivory handles.
Jan 8, 2021 12:47 am
"Hold Gilly, this was obviously important enough to hide at great effort, it may yet be dangerous. Perhaps we should have Angel examine it."

Alice casts her eyes about in search of Angel. Once she spots him she calls out for him to examine the box.

"Angel! We have found something that might contain important information, would you examine the box for us?"
Jan 8, 2021 6:00 am
OOC:
Alice may or may not know that many rogues who count themselves master thieves are very sensitive about their abilities.
Angel steps over to where the 'ladies' were digging taking note of their absolutely filthy hands. "Why don't you two go clean up a bit while I take a look at this." He sets about looking carefully at the box. He first inspects for traps, then to understand the locking mechanism if any and finally attempts carefully to open it once any and all traps are disarmed.
OOC:
Looks like his only opportunity for success is if the box is not trapped and not locked.
Last edited January 8, 2021 6:01 am

Rolls

Find/remove traps (10%) - (1d100)

(55) = 55

pick locks (15%) - (1d100)

(56) = 56

Jan 8, 2021 7:32 am
OOC:
My biggest problem with Basic has always been the thief skills. Should have given them spendable points and dex mods like in 2e.

KCC

Jan 8, 2021 11:17 am
Gilly scuttles our of the large hole in the wall, and dips her hands into the water of the moat. She scrubs her hands clean as quickly as she can, noting a few scratches from the lifting work.

As quick as a flash, she’s back by Angel’s side.

"Looks safe, right?! Let’s open it then!"
Jan 8, 2021 3:19 pm
'This will not end well, if any of the tomes on roguish legends have taught me,' Eltrezar thinks to himself as his three remaining companions prepare to open a locked box, hidden by bandits. Hrmph! "If you are to open this, I will stand back a ways. I'm not convinced it is safe- despite your efforts, Angel- and wish not to be caught in a poisonous cloud or doused in flames." With this, the fragile wizard steps to the doorway, but watches with keen eyes.
Jan 8, 2021 4:44 pm
A wise decision on Eltrezar's part to be sure, but to Angel's great relief the box is neither trapped nor locked. As he tentatively lifts the lid, bracing himself for some sort of nasty outcome, he opens one squinted eye open and finds... TREASURE!

The box contains two bolts of fine cloth you're sure could bring in a nice bit of coin to the right merchant, a crystal flagon and four goblets, all crafted as a set, and lying on top are four exceptionally well-crafted arrows. Interspersed among these items, almost acting like a sort of packing material, is a fair amount of copper pieces probably numbering in the range of around fifteen hundred to two thousand by a quick estimate.
Jan 8, 2021 5:34 pm
"No maps? No papers of any sort. Well, that's disappointing. Some fine new arrows for our lead hunter I suppose..."

Alice looks at Gilly with a slight smile.

"Unless anyone else wishes to lay claim? I offer Gilly based purely on body count but perhaps someone else has a different idea? I certainly don't wish to belittle anyone here, you are all the finest warriors I've ever had the honor to fight alongside."
Jan 8, 2021 5:46 pm
"Of course nothing useful. These were hired goons, not the masterminds. Pointed in a direction and let loose. I'm a little surprised with how much they had actually collected, and wonder how much belongs to the village originally." Eltrezar allows himself to peek into the box, eyeing the treasure they had found. 'I wonder if the cloth could be used to create finer robes, more befitting a man of my station. Perhaps someone in town will be able to help.'
Jan 8, 2021 6:03 pm
"Likely most of it, but soldiers must be paid and the Church sees no fault with the spoils of war going to the victors. After a proper tithe, of course."
Jan 8, 2021 6:45 pm
Elmo stands quietly by. At Alice's comment about soldiers needing to be paid, he seems to take a minute to absorb what's said, then replies "If yer talkin' abou' me Aleesha, yeh've already handled my fees", and he bangs his battle axe against the chain shirt under his garments. Unless I overlooked a sheep or two in tha' there box, wha'ever spoils yeh've turn'd up 'ere is yours, as I don't recall anyone from Hommlet reportin' any of this stuff bein' took. Some livestock from outlyin' farms is all, and it sounds like they was grabbed for being eaten' and to test the village's response."
Jan 8, 2021 6:58 pm
"Thank you Elmo, you are a good and honest man."

Alice leaves the division of the treasure to the others and continues to look around the room.
Jan 8, 2021 8:01 pm
OOC:
Is there anywhere in specific Alice is looking in the room or is she just giving the room a whole once-over?
https://i.imgur.com/QuY57Nn.png
Jan 8, 2021 8:40 pm
OOC:
No I was just more passing the reigns to the other players in case they wanted to talk treasure division

*Alice will look around the other large room connected diagonally to this room.
Last edited January 8, 2021 8:41 pm
Jan 8, 2021 9:02 pm
Alice walks into the great hall. Three riding horses stand still but nervous near the corpses of their riders. Two corridors branch off from this area, one headed south, the other west. In the western corridor a door sits closed on the right, two doors on the left, and a set of double doors at the end.
In the south corridor two doors remain closed on the right, one on the left, and the end of the hall opens into a room, though what the room contains is impossible to determine this far away.
OOC:
I've marked each door with an orange letter "D".
https://i.imgur.com/6aPkFc1.png
Jan 8, 2021 9:43 pm
Alice approaches the mouth of the southern corridor to see if she can get a better look into the open room at the end.
Jan 8, 2021 10:28 pm
OOC:
You guys are such mad posters I'll never keep up with you. Whenever I have an appointment in the morning it's usually about this time of day before I can get in my first post here. It seems several people advance the story way too far for the rest of us to interact. It's gonna take some retconning on my part to keep up.
Angel breathes a sigh of relieve that there was no surprise waiting. After going through everything in the box (which was a lot larger than was originally thought) he turns to Gilly and the others and says, "I think we should donate most of this copper to the Inn to help them rebuild what was damaged by the fire. I would be happy to split the arrows with you, Gilly. I assume they are likely to be magical. Eltrezar, can you tell us anything about that?"
Jan 9, 2021 1:44 am
Eltrezar takes one of the arrows and turns it around in his hands, hemming and hawing as he examines it for runes or signs of magical influence. "As much as I would like to tell you more, all I can say is that they're nicer than what you have now. I do not today have the capacity to determine if they're enchanted, nor to determine the history of these arrows. But I am quite curious about the cloth. Let me take a closer look at these for a moment."
OOC:
Eltrezar doesn't have Detect Magic, and identifying is in itself a task reserved for high level NPCs. GM, please let me know if I'm wrong about the latter. Also, can you describe the bolts of cloth? Wizardly vanity is winning here.
Last edited January 9, 2021 1:47 am

KCC

Jan 9, 2021 2:01 am
Gilly carefully places two of the arrows in her quiver, being extra careful with them.

She nods to Angel. "That’s fair! What should we do with the rest of this stuff? Should we... leave it with Coulson while we look around?" she says, as she watches Alice make her way around the rest of the keep.

"Lots of doors to check. Maybe too much to carry at once!"
Jan 9, 2021 6:08 am
"We should probably not leave this treasure, Coulson's body or the horses alone for too long. Maybe Elmo or our local hunter could stay with them all while we reconnoiter. What do you think Alice? Alice? Now where did she go?"
Jan 9, 2021 7:11 am
OOC:
just waiting to see if the DM expands the map of the southern corridor before I walk back in, Alice is still in earshot

KCC

Jan 9, 2021 8:23 am
OOC:
Yes, I suppose Kelric might feel like watching over the body and supplies for us.
Jan 9, 2021 4:35 pm
charles.c.cowley says:
OOC:
Eltrezar doesn't have Detect Magic, and identifying is in itself a task reserved for high level NPCs. GM, please let me know if I'm wrong about the latter. Also, can you describe the bolts of cloth? Wizardly vanity is winning here.
OOC:
Yes some higher level NPCs could make an identification of the objects in question. Any PC or NPC with Detect Magic can as well. As far as the cloth is concerned, both bolts of cloth are of finely made silk. One is a canary yellow color. The other is eggplant purple colored.
At the suggestion that someone stand watch over Coulson's form the elf Kelric nods, stating he has no problems. In fact, he even suggests maybe someone should return to Hommlet with the fallen dwarf and see that he's delivered to the church Alice brought him to before.
OOC:
I'm giving you all an option here: You can have Kelric stand guard over the supplies and the dwarf, knowing he's still on hand to come running to your aid if things get nasty. OR, you can send him away with Coulson's body, whereby he'll still take a share of the XP that the party gained from slaying the brigands and giant toads, but he will not get a cut of the XP from any loot the party returns to town with on their own afterwards, but he also won't be on hand to come aid you if you get in a bind while you'restill exploring the moathouse.
In other words: He can stay and get an equal share of the XP earned through loot later. Or he can leave you and you split the Loot XP with one less PC.
Alice moves to the mouth of the southern corridor. The hallway itself is dim, but not impossible to see through.
However it's about 30' down the length of this passage before it opens to the room beyond and from this spot, nothing new is revealed. A greater amount of sunlight seems to brighten the room more than in the hallway, and Alice would recall that Gilly pointed out there is another hole in the wall in the southeast corner of the room, although this one was only large enough for a very small halfling or maybe a small dwarf to squirm through.

https://i.imgur.com/XA3hU1T.png

Rolls

Secret Roll

Jan 9, 2021 6:16 pm
"Given that we have covered the perimeter and cleared out the main standing areas, I believe the best use of our resources is to have Kelric bring Coulson to town. He can make preparations for the burial, while we take some more time to explore. If there are no objections, I would be happy to stand guard over this treasure while the rest of you continue exploring this area. Or we can pair up and leave this chest unattended. I am personally not too concerned over it, as I believe it will be safe enough where it stands." Those in the room see the wizard take one of the bolts of cloth- the purple- and hold it against himself, comparing skin tone and color while also checking quality.
Jan 9, 2021 6:36 pm
It is of very nice quality. Eltrezar would guess that each bolt of cloth would sell for about 50-60gp, depending on if you had the right buyer, based on his close inspection.
OOC:
We have 1 vote for sending Kelric back to Hommlet. I'll give that at least a day or so to let everyone have a say in the matter.

Rolls

Secret Roll

Jan 9, 2021 6:49 pm
OOC:
Angel favors sending Kelric back with the body. Regarding Eltrezar guarding the treasure, that depends on whether he still has a spell available that might be the difference in any encounter we may have. I can't recall if he had cast any spells or only daggers.
Jan 9, 2021 6:57 pm
OOC:
Eltrezar still has one Magic Missile spell.
Jan 9, 2021 8:50 pm
OOC:
Alice votes for Kelric to head back with the body, I think we can leave the chest unguarded too. Might need that magic missile...
Jan 9, 2021 9:35 pm
Kelric gives a nod of approval and lifts the body of Coulson off the floor, informing the party that he intends to bring the corpse back on the back of his riding horse, and that someone will have to bring the dwarf's warhorse back when they're done here.After securing the man on the back of his saddle, he gives you all a final nod and spurs his horse away from the moathouse.

Rolls

Secret Roll

KCC

Jan 10, 2021 1:07 am
Gilly stands at the mouth of the fort, waving Kelric and Coulson off until they twist out of view.

She turns, and walks back into the fort, by the treasure pile. She checks her short sword and armor, quiver and string. Once she’s satisfied, she falls into line with the others, ready to investigate the fort.
Jan 10, 2021 2:43 am
"Now then. Alice, you seem to be the unofficial leader of this expedition, so feel free to disagree. I propose that Angel and Gilly explore together, and Alice and I. Each group take a hallway, and we clear this place fast. I'd rather be sleeping in a bed tonight than on the stone floor."
Last edited January 10, 2021 2:43 am
Jan 10, 2021 2:56 am
Alice thanks Kelric for his service this far and shakes the man's hand before he heads off with Coulson. Walking back to the group, she answers Eltrezar's query with concern.

"Mister Eltrezar, I value your wisdom and I am honored to lead this party, but I do not like our odds of survival upon splitting up. We do not know that all the brigands' are truly slain, and what of the spooks that haunt this place? While all may indeed be well within, the fact is we do not know what hides behind these doors and one of our group is perished, another is lost to the duty of his last rights."

Alice looks around at their dwindling numbers and sighs.

"As much as you would have me lead I would not speak over your wishes so if all of you left would have us split up to search then we go with my blessing as well, but as for my opinion, you know I am a prudent woman not prone to taking chances."
Jan 10, 2021 3:03 am
The wizard raises his hands in a socially defensive position. "I trust you to have more knowledges into tactics than I, given my expertise in alternate areas. If you think it best we stick together, I trust you. I do, however, believe that prisoner had been speaking the truth. He had no reason to lie."
Jan 10, 2021 3:18 am
"Fair enough for the highway men, but they said too that they heard sounds. These old castles are often haunted by the dead and if he told true about his men, then what of the rest? Forgive me if it make more work for us, but as I said I will not loose another of you so long as I might prevent it with my hammer."
Jan 10, 2021 3:24 am
"There are more doors to the west so we might as well start there. As I said, if Gilly and Angel wish also to split up then we will, otherwise let us begin."

Alice looks to the halfling and the rogue for their opinions, if none are offered then she proceeds to the first door in the western hallway.

KCC

Jan 10, 2021 3:39 am
OOC:
Last time we split up, Coulson got his throat cut. :,(

Best stay together.
Jan 10, 2021 4:14 pm
https://i.imgur.com/IekqrSE.png
Alice leads the way stopping at the first door on the left. She opens the door which gives a loud creaking that seems to resonate through the moathouse ruins. The room beyond is a 20'x15' chamber with the south east corner cut short at a 45° to make way for the stairs in the great hall.
Those that can see through the open door frame see that the room contains a few mangy pelts, stuffed animal heads, and shattered antlers, indicating that it held the former status of the castle's trophy room. Most of these artifacts have been thrown to the floor and tossed into piles, which lay about.
OOC:
If you guys can, I'd like you to come to some consensus about a rudimentary marching order. These are 10' wide hallways, leading to relatively small rooms via 5' doorways. Who is opening doors, who is moving into various rooms first, and who is taking up the rear can be important when exploring a "dungeon", for obvious reasons.
For the time being I went with the basic foundation of putting your heavier-armored "melee" fighters up front to open doors, the lighter-armored ranged fighters to take up the rear, and your super-squishy magic-user sandwiched in the middle.
This may not be the marching order you want to go with, or necessarily even the ideal one to use, but since I haven't received clarification on what sort of marching order you're using, I just made one up. Feel free to change this if you prefer.
Jan 10, 2021 4:35 pm
Previously posted as a secret note:
Quote:
OOC:
I'm going to be communicating to you in secret note for the time being, until the others discover Loken.

Loken has been awake for some time now, though he's not sure how long. Could have been hours, days, or a combination of both. For all he knows he may have been drifting in and out of sleep. The last thing he recalls was traveling on a road, though if it was headed to the Village of Nulb or Hommlet, he cant recall. A group of four men traveled past on horseback... fellows that looked like trouble, and he watched them cautiously expecting an attack. As the first three passed his eyes followed the first, who had brought his hand to the hilt of his sword and grinned as he strode by, and failed to see the last of the group smash him in the back of the skull with two powerful kicks from his warhorse.
When he came to, he found himself lying on a hard stone floor. His hands and feet are bound, he feels thick wads of cloth stuffed in each ear, and a rough burlap sack has been pulled over his head. In addition to his bound hands and feet, more rope has been wrapped around him almost like a spider's catch making it impossible to do more than squirm a few inches. The bindings are cutting the circulation in his arms, so that between the numbness of his limbs, the rags in his ears, and the bag over his head, he has almost no sensory input telling him where he is or what's around him. All efforts to wriggle out of his bindings, or even slither around are futile, and he begins to fear that unless his assailants come and release him, he may remain like this until he expires.
Jan 10, 2021 5:17 pm
Previously posted as a secret note:
Quote:
thats awesome. Better than I could have hoped for.
Jan 10, 2021 5:49 pm
OOC:
Marching order seems fine to me
Seeing that there are no hostile forces to be found in this room, Alice moves on to the next door and opens it.
Jan 10, 2021 6:11 pm
dominion451 says:
Seeing that there are no hostile forces to be found in this room, Alice moves on to the next door and opens it.
OOC:
There are actually 3 doors here, all equally distant from where Alice stands. One to her left, one to her right, and one directly in front of her.
Jan 10, 2021 6:14 pm
OOC:
The marching order looks good to me.
At the room with the hunting trophies, Eltrezar looks inside (from the doorway) to see if there is anything unusual about any of the animals.
Jan 10, 2021 6:24 pm
Stopping to peer inside, they all seem to be standard game. The broken horns and antlers those of deer, elk, and moose. The pelts seem mostly to be those of large bears. The heads seem to be more trophies of game animals, and a couple of large boar. There's a few preserved fish, and a few birds. Aside from the boars, which can live almost anywhere, including the grasslands north of Hommlet, almost all of the animal artifacts here seem to be those of forest dwelling creatures, most likely captured on hunting expeditions through the Gnarley Forest to the east of the moathouse.
Jan 10, 2021 8:03 pm
OOC:
Alice will try the door to her left
Jan 10, 2021 9:41 pm
Angel stays in the back with his bow still strung and an arrow nocked. He will glance over his shoulder every few seconds to make sure there is nothing suddenly appearing behind them.
Jan 10, 2021 10:42 pm
Alice opens the door to her left. Again, it give a creak on rusted hinges. This time however, there's no windows, arrow slots, or other means of illuminating the room, and not enough light bleeds in from the darkened hallway, thus your human and halfling eyes see very little of what lay before you.
Jan 10, 2021 11:07 pm
Alice sets down her pack and removes a torch and tinderbox. She lights the torch and replaces the box, shouldering her pack once more. The armor clad clerist waves the torch into the darkness...
Jan 10, 2021 11:21 pm
https://i.imgur.com/WyfKFO5.png
Alice lets the light from her torch illuminate the small 10' x 15' room. By the appearance of the chamber, this place was once the domicile of someone of importance, but is now stripped of everything save broken and ruined furnishings. However, her torchlight catches a gleam directly next her on the right as she peers inside. One wall cresset remains near the outer wall, and its nondescript torch stub is a silver baton, probably worth some gold.
Jan 10, 2021 11:27 pm
Alice slowly steps inside the room and gingerly removes the silver baton which she hands off to Eltrezar behind her.

Seeing nothing else of interest in the room, and most importantly no hostiles, Alice exits the room and opens the door at the west end of the hallway...
Jan 11, 2021 12:49 am
https://i.imgur.com/Yck64SZ.png
Alice opens the door to the far west, at the end of the hallway. This room, like many of the others room built directly inside the moathouse walls, has arrow slits for archers to use when the castle is under siege, which allow a degree of sunlight to enter and render torches unnecessary during the daylight.
But before she has a chance to examine the room in any degree of detail a sense of immediate danger accompanied a swift movement from the right side of the room along with a barely perceptible slapping of feet on stone, then a 5' long, giant lizard is on Alice, whereby it delivers a vicious bite at the cleric. Fortunately, the lizard approaches for a bad angle and it's shoulder collides against the door frame first, bringing it short of its target as its jaws snap shut a fiit from Alice's face.
OOC:
Surprise Round ends. Round 1 begins!
Turn order is as follows:
-->1. Gilly (8)
2. Alice (6)
3. Eltrezar (5)
4. Angel (4)
5. Giant Lizard (1)
6. Elmo (6, 2-handed)

The Giant Lizard attacked at a diagonal angle. The door is in the middle of the hallway, so if anyone wishes to rush into the room on their turn they can enter through L12 or L13, as both spaces contain the door. Remember, you can pass through a fellow PCs space when you move, but you may not stop on a fellow PC's space, and you may not pass through an enemy's space.

@KCC69: This Giant Lizard is large for a lizard, but at 5' in length, it's not greater than human-sized. So Gilly's AC for this encounter is 4.

Rolls

Party Surprise roll - (1d6)

Giant Lizard Attack roll, Damage roll - (1d20, 1d8)

1d20 : (5) = 5

1d8 : (4) = 4

Angel Initiative roll - (1d6+1)

(3) + 1 = 4

Gilly Initiative roll - (1d6+2)

(6) + 2 = 8

Alice Initiative roll - (1d6+1)

(5) + 1 = 6

Eltrezar Initiative roll - (1d6-1)

(6) - 1 = 5

Elmo Initiative roll - (1d6+2)

(4) + 2 = 6

Giant Lizard Initiative roll - (1d6)

(1) = 1

KCC

Jan 11, 2021 1:26 am
Armed with her sword and shield, Gilly pushes passed the others, and into the room. Carefully, she circles the lizard, shield up, sword ready to stab out. She circles, and circles, the lizard’s cold eyes following her. She will move around to be on the opposite side of the creature to the others. Having flanked the beast, she stabs out at the opportune moment!

Rolls

Attack - (1d20+1)

(13) + 1 = 14

Damage - (1d6+1)

(1) + 1 = 2

Jan 11, 2021 1:36 am
Alice pushes into the room and attacks the lizard with her hammer. She screams a vicious battle cry in an attempt to draw the lizard's focus away from the others...
OOC:
Move to K,13

Rolls

Attack - (1d20+1)

(3) + 1 = 4

Damage - (1d6+1)

(6) + 1 = 7

Jan 11, 2021 1:43 am
Gilly moves into the room and works her way around the lizard. Once she gets behind the beast she lunges in with her sword and stabs the lizard in the back leg, doing 2HP damage.

Alice charges into the room as well and attack from the reptile's other diagonal rear, but it flinches at Gilly's stab and Alice's hammer whiffs through the air.


https://i.imgur.com/57jWcTg.png
OOC:
Round 1 continues! Turn order is as follows:
1. Gilly (8)
2. Alice (6)
-->3. Eltrezar (5)
4. Angel (4)
5. Giant Lizard (1)
6. Elmo (6, 2-handed)
Jan 11, 2021 2:12 am
A language indecipherable to the party leaves the lips of the wizard, as he points a long, bony finger at the lizard. Moments later, a burst of magical energy erupts from the finger, bolting towards the creature and striking it with a nearly-silent impact.
OOC:
Saved it for such an occasion... and then rolled a 1. Oof.
Last edited January 11, 2021 2:13 am

Rolls

Magic Missile - (1d6+1)

(1) + 1 = 2

Jan 11, 2021 2:47 am
OOC:
@charles.c.cowley: Oof is right!

I could make the argument that Eltrezar would have to declare he's casting a spell at the beginning of the round, but I think that's going to be a difficult rule to enforce in a PbP game to be honest, because it's going to require every player to sit and wait for a magic casters to declare before the game can resume each round.

However, I would be willing to argue that a caster has to see their target to use Magic Missile, and it would be pretty difficult for Eltrezar to see the lizard considering where the lizard is standing in relation to where the actual door is, and therefore Magic Missile might not be possible.
https://i.imgur.com/Zxgl3eQ.png

So I'll give you two options:
1) You can keep the roll as is, doing the 2 damage, and use up your spell slot.
or
2) You can assume that Magic Missile wouldn't work right now, and retcon your turn this round.

I'm fine with either, BUT if you retcon the turn and move to a place where you have a better line of sight and cast Magic Missile this round, you have to stick with the "1" roll. If you opt to retcon the Magic Missile attack this round altogether, you can do something else instead, such as move and dagger, move in the room but stay away and let the less squishy PCs handle the melee, etc.
Jan 11, 2021 3:21 am
OOC:
Zooming in, it's pretty clear that he wouldn't have any sight of it. It didn't look that way from the previous map, which is why I assumed it would work. I would like to retcon my turn to move into the room to K-12 and throw a dagger. If the creature is still standing, I'll use my spell next turn and stick with that miserable 1.
Last edited January 11, 2021 3:23 am

Rolls

Attack - (1d20)

(8) = 8

Damage - (1d4)

(4) = 4

Jan 11, 2021 4:17 am
Eltrezar enter the room and throws a dagger at the Lizard but it misses and clatters against the wall next to the door.

https://i.imgur.com/BoLZOmr.png
OOC:
Round 1 continues! Turn order is as follows:
1. Gilly (8)
2. Alice (6)
3. Eltrezar (5)
4. --> Angel (4)
5. Giant Lizard (1)
6. Elmo (6, 2-handed)
Jan 12, 2021 4:47 pm
OOC:
Alright, I'll NPC Angel this turn...
Angel rushes into the room and moves to the corner to stay out of the lizard"s biting attack, and fires an arrow at it...
...Unfortunately the arrow bounces off the wall behind it and lands near Eltrezar's dagger.

The lizard turns and snaps at the attackers behind it...
...Targeting Gilly, it's thick jaws slam shut just in front of her face as she instinctively pulls her head back and she realizes just how lethal a single bite could be.

Elmo rushes in then and swings his battle axe at the big reptile...
...which deftly slams against the lizard's skull.

Rolls

Angel Attack roll, Damage roll - (1d20+2, 1d6)

1d20+2 : (6) + 2 = 8

1d6 : (2) = 2

Giant Lizard target selection (1-3: Alice, 4-6: Gilly) - (1d6)

(6) = 6

Giant Lizard Attack roll, Damage roll - (1d20, 1d8)

1d20 : (3) = 3

1d8 : (5) = 5

Elmo Attack roll, Damage roll - (1d20+4, 1d6+2)

1d20+4 : (19) + 4 = 23

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

Jan 12, 2021 5:31 pm
OOC:
Round 1 ends. Round 2 begins! Turn order is as follows:
-->1. Gilly (6)
2. Eltrezar, Giant Lizard (4)
3. Angel (3)
4. Alice (2)
5. Elmo (3, 2-handed)
https://i.imgur.com/KMzMKCi.png

Rolls

Angel Initiative roll - (1d6+1)

(2) + 1 = 3

Gilly Initiative roll - (1d6+2)

(4) + 2 = 6

Alice Initiative roll - (1d6+1)

(1) + 1 = 2

Eltrezar Initiative roll - (1d6-1)

(5) - 1 = 4

Elmo Initiative roll - (1d6+2)

(1) + 2 = 3

Giant Lizard Initiative roll - (1d6)

(4) = 4

Jan 12, 2021 5:39 pm
Eltrezar plans to cast a spell this turn!
OOC:
Furious refreshing to make this work!
Jan 12, 2021 5:41 pm
Alice's stomach leaps into her throat as the huge reptile snaps at the halfling, she shouts

"Gilly keep back and pepper the beast with arrows! Let's see if this monster can bite through my steel!"
Jan 12, 2021 6:08 pm
OOC:
I'm good with Eltrezar re-rolling damage on this lizard if he casts his Magic Missile. When we retconned Eltrezar's last turn we retconned everything.
Jan 12, 2021 6:11 pm
OOC:
I'll happily accept that reroll, before the Halfling can object.
Jan 12, 2021 6:16 pm
OOC:
lmao! I love this slogan! And yes, no first level mage should have to live with a 1 on spell damage... Just ain't right.
Jan 12, 2021 6:18 pm
OOC:
if I ever DM a game, there will be a tavern called "The objectionable halfling"

KCC

Jan 13, 2021 12:14 am
Seeing other fighters come in to take on the lizard, Gilly will set about moving back.

She takes a step backwards, shield raised. The beast follows her step, having just lashed out at her. Gilly stabs out with her blade, in an effort to put some distance between it and her.
OOC:
Gilly will fighting retreat one or two squares. Stab out and move back. She’ll be switching over to arrows next turn!

Rolls

Attack - (1d20+1)

(8) + 1 = 9

Damage - (1d6+1)

(3) + 1 = 4

Jan 13, 2021 12:19 am
Seeing the Halfling taking a more defensible position, Eltrezar follows suit. He begins mumbling in a dialect alien to all present, and as he slowly steps backwards a bolt of magic erupts from a pointed finger. The arcane energy flies forward dodging all allies, striking the lizard with a nearly noiseless impact.
OOC:
Eltrezar moves back to K-11 and casts Magic Missile.

Rolls

Magic Missile - (1d6+1)

(4) + 1 = 5

Jan 13, 2021 3:18 am
Gilly's attack misses and she navigates the rubble underfoot while swinging her weapon. Eltrezar backs up and throws a Magic Missile spell at the lizard, striking it had across the right side of its face and it responds with a very lizard-like hiss as a huge hole is opened in the side of its skull.

Irritated by the attack, it lunges for another bite...
OOC:
1-3 is Elmo, 4-6 is Alice
... and catches Elmo on the hand with a bit of a nip.
OOC:
Round 2 continues! Turn order is as follows:
1. Gilly (6)
2. Eltrezar, Giant Lizard (4)
-->3. Angel (3)
4. Alice (2)
5. Elmo (3, 2-handed)

Rolls

Giant Lizard Attack roll, Damage roll - (1d20, 1d8)

1d20 : (17) = 17

1d8 : (1) = 1

Target Selection roll - (1d6)

(1) = 1

Jan 13, 2021 9:37 pm
OOC:
Thanks for waiting for me on round 2. Don't know where the time went. Maybe I'm just getting into too much stuff.
Angel pulls out another arrow noticing the dwindling quantity, notches it on the string, takes careful aim and lets fly.

Rolls

Bow attack on Giant Lizard - (1d20+2)

(2) + 2 = 4

damage - (1d6)

(5) = 5

Jan 13, 2021 11:34 pm
Alice swings again and again at the scaled abomination, swinging down with the spiked back end of her hammer to try and punch through the iron like hide.

Rolls

Attack/Damage - (1d20+1, 1d6+1)

1d20+1 : (9) + 1 = 10

1d6+1 : (4) + 1 = 5

Jan 13, 2021 11:34 pm
OOC:
luck is not with us on this one...
Jan 13, 2021 11:48 pm
OOC:
@Aldrusian: No problem
@everyone: I'll tell you this. It has a really nasty THAC0, and a 1d8 bite is no joke. But Eltrezar's Magic Missile recked that lizard's ass up.
Jan 13, 2021 11:52 pm
Elmo hold his position and swings his axe at the lizard...
... but the swing misses.

Rolls

Elmo Attack roll, Damage roll - (1d20+1, 1d8+1)

1d20+1 : (3) + 1 = 4

1d8+1 : (6) + 1 = 7

KCC

Jan 13, 2021 11:55 pm
OOC:
It’s a real pillow fight in here.
Jan 13, 2021 11:56 pm
OOC:
Round 2 ends; Round 3 begins! Turn order is as follows:
-->1. Elmo (6)
2. Eltrezar (5)
3. Angel, Gilly, Giant Lizard (4)
4. Aice (3)

Rolls

Angel Initiative roll - (1d6+1)

(3) + 1 = 4

Gilly Initiative roll - (1d6+2)

(2) + 2 = 4

Alice Initiative roll - (1d6+1)

(2) + 1 = 3

Eltrezar Initiative roll - (1d6-1)

(6) - 1 = 5

Elmo Initiative roll - (1d6+2)

(4) + 2 = 6

Giant Lizard Initiative roll - (1d6)

(4) = 4

Jan 13, 2021 11:59 pm
Having just whiffed on his swing, Elmo immediately brings his axe back in a backhand attack...
... and again misses the lizard.
OOC:
Round 3 continues! Turn order is as follows:
1. Elmo (6)
-->2. Eltrezar (5)
3. Angel, Gilly, Giant Lizard (4)
4. Aice (3)

Rolls

Elmo Attack roll, Damage roll - (1d20+1, 1d8+1)

1d20+1 : (5) + 1 = 6

1d8+1 : (7) + 1 = 8

Jan 14, 2021 12:03 am
Seeing that the beast continues to thrash against the party, Eltrezar returns to his more common tactic of peppering with knives. His arcane energy expended for the day (through to great effect), he draws another dagger and wearily moves back into an optimal range before releasing the blade.
OOC:
Eltrezar moves to L-12 for close-range.

Rolls

Attack - (1d20)

(6) = 6

Damage - (1d4)

(4) = 4

Jan 14, 2021 12:09 am
Eltrezar's dagger glances off the lizard's scales.
OOC:
And I think L13 is actually what you meant, so that's where I have your token.

Round 3 continues! Turn order is as follows:
1. Elmo (6)
2. Eltrezar (5)
-->3. Angel, Gilly, Giant Lizard (4)
4. Aice (3)


Hopefully Angel or Gilly can put an end to this monster, because it's going to bite someone and the result are probably going to be really bad for you...

Also, Eltrezar in melee range? That seems like not a good life choice...

Oh wait... Did Eltrezar go melee and stab at L12, or thrown dagger at L13?
Jan 14, 2021 12:14 am
OOC:
I definitely meant to throw, but within the 10ft range. A little closer than comfort, but this scrawny wiz needs every bonus he can get.

KCC

Jan 14, 2021 12:32 am
Gilly grabs her bow, and sure to select a mundane arrow, sets one knee on the stone floor and fires into the creatures chest.
OOC:
Well, anyway... :D
Last edited January 14, 2021 12:32 am

Rolls

FIRE! - (1d20+3)

(8) + 3 = 11

Damage - (1d6)

(3) = 3

Jan 14, 2021 12:38 am
OOC:
@charles.c.cowley: Okay got it.
Gilly fires and arrow, and again it bounces off the herd scales of the creature...
OOC:
I'll give Angel a chance to put this animal down, then I'm fixin' to wreak someone's day with my rad lizard.

Round 3 continues! Turn order is as follows:
1. Elmo (6)
2. Eltrezar (5)
-->3. Angel, Gilly, Giant Lizard (4)
4. Aice (3)
Jan 14, 2021 3:48 am
OOC:
Gee, I'm glad I dropped one of the other games I was playing. Anyone ever heard of Call of War?
Angel grabs another mundane arrow and fires again.
OOC:
I've been making great rolls in all my games the last few days, now the opposite is at work.
Last edited January 14, 2021 3:49 am

Rolls

Bow attack on Giant Lizard - (1d20+2)

(3) + 2 = 5

damage - (1d6)

(4) = 4

KCC

Jan 14, 2021 4:11 am
OOC:
TPK by a solitary lizard?
Jan 14, 2021 4:33 am
OOC:
Hey hey, he's done 1 damage to us... Still a ways off from TPK ;)
Jan 14, 2021 4:27 pm
OOC:
I, for one, welcome our new lizard overlord!
Jan 14, 2021 4:42 pm
OOC:
Bwahahaha!! Go go Godzilla!
Jan 14, 2021 6:38 pm
The giant lizard wheels around. At first it considers Elmo, but then snaps at Alice instead, catching her off guard as its powerful mandibles crush down on the cleric's skull.
OOC:
Oh man... With a THAC0 of 16, the lizard does 8HP damage to Alice, who was previously at 7... She's going to have to make a Death Save on her next turn.
Meanwhile, as KCC69 pointed out, Elmo's previous attack should not have happened until now because he has a 2-handed property on his weapon, but I'll keep the die rolls, which means now Elmo swings and misses and round 3 comes to an end.

Round 4 begins! Turn order is as follows:
-->1. Angel, Alice, Eltrezar (5)
2. Gilly (3)
Giant Lizard (1)
4. Elmo (7, 2-handed)
https://i.imgur.com/YyEGiiQ.png

Rolls

Giant Lizard target selection (1-3: Alice, 4-6: Elmo) - (1d6)

(2) = 2

Giant Lizard Attack roll, Damage roll - (1d20, 1d8)

1d20 : (16) = 16

1d8 : (8) = 8

Angel Initiative roll - (1d6+1)

(4) + 1 = 5

Gilly Initiative roll - (1d6+2)

(1) + 2 = 3

Alice Initiative roll - (1d6+1)

(4) + 1 = 5

Eltrezar Initiative roll - (1d6-1)

(6) - 1 = 5

Elmo Initiative roll - (1d6+2)

(5) + 2 = 7

Giant Lizard Initiative roll - (1d6)

(1) = 1

Jan 14, 2021 6:52 pm
OOC:
Cripes, of COURSE the LIZARD is rolling well. I guess I asked for it...

Rolls

Death save (11) - (1d20)

(7) = 7

Jan 14, 2021 6:53 pm
OOC:
Oh for the love of Cuthbert...
Jan 14, 2021 7:00 pm
OOC:
Oh no!
Alice, caught by surprise by the lizard's attack barely has time to feel any pain as her skull is crushed almost instantly and he body goes limp, dangling still from the reptile's strong jaws. Around her head it gives a hiss of satisfaction.
OOC:
That sucks... Round 4 continues; Turn order is as follows:
-->1. Angel, Alice, Eltrezar (5)
2. Gilly (3)
3. Giant Lizard (1)
4. Elmo (7, 2-handed)
Jan 14, 2021 8:28 pm
Seeing the beast kill and partially devour his companion, the wizard redoubles his assault! He draws yet another dagger and hurls it at the creature, an enraged yell coming from his lips! After throwing the knife, however, he realizes that he may have drawn unwanted attention and backs away further, hoping that the parties drunk might keep its focus.
OOC:
Eltrezar throws a dagger and then backs away 5'.

Rolls

Attack - (1d20)

(8) = 8

Damage - (1d4)

(2) = 2

Jan 14, 2021 11:48 pm
Eltrezar throws a third dagger, which also bounces uselessly against the wall behind the beast.
OOC:
I'll move Eltrezar 1 space north. How many daggers does the wizard carry? 4 or 5, correct?

Round 4 continues; Turn order is as follows:
-->1. Angel, [d]Alice[/s], Eltrezar (5)
2. Gilly (3)
3. Giant Lizard (1)
4. Elmo (7, 2-handed)
Jan 14, 2021 11:57 pm
OOC:
I'm counting six daggers. Five from the blacksmith, one from character creation.
Jan 15, 2021 12:07 am
charles.c.cowley says:
OOC:
I'm counting six daggers. Five from the blacksmith, one from character creation.
OOC:
Yeah, that's right. I could have just opened up my Sspreadsheet and looked. So Eltrezar still has three more daggers to bounce off the wall...
Jan 15, 2021 12:10 am
OOC:
It's 5pm right now. I'll give Angel a few more hours to post and then I'll NPC him this turn if we don't see anything by ~10pm-ish. That way Gilly can get a post in tonight as well.
Jan 15, 2021 12:41 am
OOC:
Hey, how many battle rounds per day do we have to face? This is starting to get a bit out of hand.
Angel grabs one of the new arrows and fires it at the Lizard. Rolls will be made without any bonuses that the arrow itself might have. Those can be added in secret if necessary.
OOC:
forgot to add the +2 to the attack. Is there a rule in this game for critical hits?
Last edited January 15, 2021 12:44 am

Rolls

Magic(?) arrow attack - (1d20)

(20) = 20

magic(?) arrow damage - (1d6)

(5) = 5

Jan 15, 2021 12:58 am
Quote:
Hey, how many battle rounds per day do we have to face? This is starting to get a bit out of hand.
OOC:
That's actually a good point and now that your party numbers are dwindling rounds can go faster, but we don't go by rounds per day. That would be really unreasonable.

Basically, we decided that when in combat, it's just one post per day (so basically 24 hours), and then the DM will NPC your character for the round just to keep.thongs moving. I try and NPC your character consistent to how you RP them, and not put them in a position that will put them at risk layer.

Your last post was around 9pm or shortly after last night which is why I'd wait until at least 10, so you were good.

The only rule for nat-20s is that they always hit, no matter what the AC of the target is.


Angel put one of the new arrows in his bow and fires it at the lizard. It pierces the beast's skull and it drops Alice's body from its jaws as it gives another hiss of pain and collapses to the floor dead.

KCC

Jan 15, 2021 1:18 am
Gilly let’s out a primal shriek, and bounces onto the lizards back, short sword out. With all her might, tears welling from her eyes, she stabs down into the beast, again, and again, and again. Eventually she discards her short sword, and with her nostrils full and wet, eyes blurred with tears, she grips her hands onto the roof of the lizards mouth, and drags it away from Alice’s body!
Jan 15, 2021 1:22 am
Seeing the giant lizard slump to the ground, Eltrezar moves forward to collect his discarded daggers. When he gets close to the fallen Alice, he drops to his knees. "Two companions in one day... I believe we best return to the town while we still have the choice. I... did not wish for this to happen. Not to them... not to her. Gilly, search the room for any spoils. Angel and I will bring her body to the horses."
Last edited January 15, 2021 1:23 am
Jan 15, 2021 2:59 am
OOC:
Gilly feels a ghostly hand on her shoulder and a voice in her mind that says "Fear not little one, for I will always watch over you."
Jan 15, 2021 3:47 am
OOC:
My apologies. I was certain that my previous post was this morning. See how confused you get when you get to be my age. Perhaps I checked in this morning before anyone else had posted and, seeing nothing, went away without posting anything.
Jan 15, 2021 3:50 am
Angel gathers Sister Alice's gear, stows it where ever he can find room on his person and begins to lift his friend from the ground. "Why is it always the strongest players are the first to get chewed up." He speaks to no one in particular.
OOC:
Angel only has a strength of 7.
Last edited January 15, 2021 3:51 am
Jan 15, 2021 3:54 am
"Because they are the ones foolish enough to fight these horrid beasts with metal sticks and hope for the best," Eltrezar retorts as he struggles to move Alice.
OOC:
In regards to the pacing, I think some of us were speeding up a bit due to the anticipation. Prior to the fight, I was trying to limit my posting here. In regards to the strength, samesies!

KCC

Jan 15, 2021 4:19 am
Gilly will give the room a once over, and then, seeing the other struggle, will help them carry Alice out to the courtyard.
OOC:
Str 14. Gilly could wrestle both Angel and Elt into submission at the same time? :D
Last edited January 15, 2021 4:20 am
Jan 15, 2021 5:10 am
Examining the room quickly, Gilly can tell that this partially collapsed chamber, contains the remains of cots and plain wooden chests, indicating that this was once a barracks room for castle guards—undoubtedly the human sort.

In the southern corner of the room a chest sits closed.

Rolls

Secret Roll

Jan 15, 2021 5:17 am
OOC:
@Aldruisian: By the way, having fired one of the nicer looking arrows to put the Giant Lizard down, Angel realizes these are +1 arrows. They don't seem to have any magical properties, but are simply well-fletched arrows.

KCC

Jan 15, 2021 5:45 am
Gilly gives the box a once over, as she saw Angel doing earlier. And having been tasked with checking for stuff, and seeing the other two begin to leave the room with the body, she will open it quickly to see if it’s worth taking before hurrying out after the others!
Jan 15, 2021 7:26 am
Gilly opens the chest, which contains the following items:
•33cp
•a chainmail tunic
•a light crossbow
•a case of 24 quarrels.

KCC

Jan 15, 2021 8:05 am
Gilly will scamper out of the room with the chest, passing it off to Angel when she catches up and picking up Alice in his stead.

Gilly helps lay her down in the courtyard, while the party compose themselves, and gather up everything before departing. Gilly can’t look at Alice’s ruined face and head. The tears come fast. She crosses Alice’s arms across her chest, and places her holy symbol in her hands. She covers Alice’s head with some cloth from the keep.

Having tended to the body, she will slip away for a moment down the other passage, and she will cry.
Last edited January 15, 2021 8:06 am
Jan 15, 2021 4:21 pm
Eltrezar will (with great effort) put Alice up on one of the horses. It would be a long ride back to town, given the number of steeds to manage, but it needed to be done. As Gilly disappears for a period, the wizard sighs and prepares the horses for travel.
Jan 15, 2021 5:19 pm
https://i.imgur.com/rb6FEXm.png
Gilly gilly retreats to the other corridor, which runs south, to give herself some time to grieve Alice's death while Eltrezar struggles to wrestle the heavily armored cleric's body on top of a horse in preparation to leave. Meanwhile Elmo and Angel are working at getting the loot they collected fastened to the horses. The wizard's grunts and curses echo through the castle.

As everything is finally leaded and Gilly is getting herself collected again, she senses a movement on her peripheral view and glances over to look at the open room at the end of the hallway, which she believes is the room where the smaller, halfling-sized hole in the castle's southeast corner wall was located. As she looks, she sees nothing out of the ordinary. But then she glances to the hallway's floor where she can see the distinct evidence of boot prints and something heavy being dragged down the hallway in the dust that has settled in the ruins.
Jan 15, 2021 9:13 pm
Not seeing Gilly anywhere in the large entryway, Angel begins to look for her. This is only after all the treasure and Alice are affixed to horses. It only takes a moment for him to find her up the stairs and around the corner. Since she seems to be examining something he will stay quiet until she lifts her head.

KCC

Jan 16, 2021 12:08 am
Composing herself upon seeing the tracks, Gilly will quietly arm herself with her bow and ready an arrow. She will creep after the trail as quietly as possible, and investigate, peeking her head into the room. She’s ready to bolt at any sign of attack.
Last edited January 16, 2021 12:09 am

Rolls

Hiding in dungeons 3/6 - (1d6)

(5) = 5

Jan 16, 2021 4:57 am
Gilly walks to the end of the hallway and peeks her head around the corner. In the southeasternmost corner of the room a small hole appears from the collapsed moathouse wall, resulting in a pile of rubble leading down to the moat below. The hole is small enough for Gilly to squeeze through, but it's doubtful the rest of the party could.
In the east side of the room the arrow slot, typically used by archers defending the castle from attackers outside, is cluttered with debris, including a number of unidentifiable bones. A foul odor seems to be emanating from the debris.
In the southwest corner lies what appears at first to be two humanoid-shaped bundles, wrapped up in a spider's cocoon, sitting on the floor. They appear to be dead inside but as Gilly watches them further she notices one then the other squirming slightly, as if struggling to get free. As well, there appears to be faint muffled noises coming from the cocoons, and as he eyes adjust to the dim light of this room she realizes they're not wrapped in spiders' silk after all, but bound tightly in rope...
https://i.imgur.com/eTRoabZ.png

Rolls

Secret Roll

KCC

Jan 16, 2021 5:20 am
Gilly takes a step back, instinctively, when she thinks he’s about to encounter a spider. But then it dawns on her that it’s simply rope. Prisoners kept here by the bandits previously dispatched. She sneaks up to one of the bundles, drawing her short sword.

"Hello?... Hello? Can you hear me? My name is Gilly Puddlefoot..." she begins about the work of cutting the bundles loose. "... adventurer! I’m here to rescue you!"
Jan 16, 2021 3:33 pm
https://i.imgur.com/PboB9oQ.jpg
OOC:
Gosh darn it, Gilly... *Sigh... Let me get to the office in an hour or so, roll some dice, and then I'll update this post.
Gilly approaches the bundles, and begins cutting at the ropes of one of them when suddenly a lightning quick flash of white darts out from between the bundles and lunges for her extended sword arm! Gilly's instincts are sharp and she gets the arm back in time, only to look down again and see a tightly coiled adder ready for another strike. The snake is huge, probably over a dozen feet in length if stretched out, and while it doesn't seem large enough to capable of eating either of the trussed up bundles, it could probably swallow a halfling. Why it was peacefully curled up between the two bodies isn't clear, but Gilly's first though is it may have been sleeping, trying to warm itself against their body heat.
The giant snake gives Gilly a threatening hiss to warn her to back off, showing two huge fangs both dripping with a viscous, deadly-looking venom and she realizes that a strike from this animal could prove to be a quick end to her life indeed. The sound of it's warning carries through the castle ruins to the great hall beyond.
OOC:
The Giant Snake's Surprise Round is ended! Round 1 begins! Turn order is as follows:
-->1. Gilly (7)
2. Giant Snake (4)
3. Angel (3)
4. Eltrezar (1)
5. 2. Elmo (6, 2-handed)

The module describes this snake as "A huge adder, over 12 feet long..." That's definitely bigger than a human, so for this combat Gilly gets her -2 AC bonus for larger than human enemies and will have a AC of "2" instead of her usual "4".
I tried to make it pretty evident in the post above but I cannot stress how deadly this animal is if you get bitten. Should it successfully bite you immediately take bite damage. Furthermore, you must make a Save vs Poison roll at the start of your next round in addition to any actions you make. I failed roll does a severe amount of poison damage. A successful roll does a dangerous amount of poison damage. Engage in melee with it at your own extreme risk.
https://i.imgur.com/4HJVFg7.png

Rolls

Giant Snake Attack roll, Damage roll - (1d20, 1d3)

1d20 : (5) = 5

1d3 : (3) = 3

Secret Roll

Angel Initiative roll - (1d6+1)

(2) + 1 = 3

Gilly Initiative roll - (1d6+2)

(5) + 2 = 7

Eltrezar Initiative roll - (1d6-1)

(2) - 1 = 1

Elmo Initiative roll - (1d6+2)

(4) + 2 = 6

Giant Snake Initiative roll - (1d6)

(4) = 4

Jan 16, 2021 5:35 pm
OOC:
It's good that I have the lowest initiative, because I'm heading out to the mountains now. If it comes to my turn, Eltrezar would likely run towards the noise (and his companions) and throw a dagger at the snake (if he can even get in position to see it, AND in range to throw a dagger).
Jan 16, 2021 6:11 pm
OOC:
Alright, have fun!
Jan 16, 2021 6:29 pm
OOC:
don’t forget Elmo will be at the back of the queue
Jan 16, 2021 6:51 pm
At the sound of Gilly speaking Angel walks forward and is near the door when he hears a loud hissing. He instinctively knocks another arrow (a common one) and steps into the room, X25.
OOC:
I assume that the elapsed time from when Gilly speaks to when the adder makes it's unsuccessful attack is a surprise round. Angel would have reached the door by the end of that period.
"Step slowly out of the way, Gilly so I can get a shot at it."
OOC:
I will wait until Gilly takes her action before I roll for any attack
Jan 16, 2021 7:43 pm
Quote:
don’t forget Elmo will be at the back of the queue
OOC:
Oh gahl-durnit!... Why am I so bad at remembering this?
Quote:
I assume that the elapsed time from when Gilly speaks to when the adder makes it's unsuccessful attack is a surprise round. Angel would have reached the door by the end of that period.
OOC:
I'm good with this. You technically said a couple of days ago that you were going to keep your distance while Gilly grieved, so I think it's reasonable that as soon as she walked into the room and was speaking to the "bundles" Angel might have wanted to see what's going on. I'll update the token on the map.

@everyone: Also I know we have one player in the woods for the weekend, one player in Joshua Tree, and one player traveling for doctors' appointments, so I think we may move things a bit slower for everyone for the next couple days, if that's alright.
If someone does get a chance to post this weekend, that's great, but if things slow down for the next couple days because people are doing stuff in their personal lives, we can pick it up on Monday. I'm going to hold ff NPC-ing any of your characters this weekend or I might wind up running more than half the party. At that point I might as well just bust out my Four Against Darkness books.

KCC

Jan 17, 2021 12:36 am
OOC:
Killing one character to get two more into the game can only work out... eventually, right? :D
Gilly yelps, and dodges out of the way of the strike! She slashes out at the snake instinctively to defend herself, and then heeds Angel’s advice and makes space for a shot! She moves back beside wherever Angel will be!
OOC:
Please direct the snakes attack towards Gilly. I don’t want anyone else’s character to die for my mistake. I suspected that we might miss out on our new companions if Gilly didn’t have a cry down this side. I didnt consider a snake attack.

Rolls

1d20+1

(17) + 1 = 18

1d6+1

(4) + 1 = 5

Jan 17, 2021 12:41 am
OOC:
your new companions are grateful you did ;)
Jan 17, 2021 9:42 am
OOC:
Mine will be too.
@Funfungiguy do I need to resubmit my sheet? I don’t have the option to post in character
Jan 17, 2021 4:55 pm
OOC:
You'll wanna withdraw your original sheet on the game page then submit your new one.
Jan 17, 2021 6:12 pm
Angel looses an arrow at the adder

Rolls

bow attack on adder - (1d20+2)

(19) + 2 = 21

arrow damage on adder - (1d6)

(6) = 6

Jan 17, 2021 6:35 pm
TheFoxofFinch says:
OOC:
@Funfungiguy do I need to resubmit my sheet? I don’t have the option to post in character
OOC:
Oh sorry, my bad. I forgot to click "Approve". You should be good to go now.
Gilly stashes at the snake opening a deep cut running the length of the animal's flank, then retreats back towards Angel.

In response the snake gives chase making a wide circuit of the room before darting in at Gilly from the southwest and making another bite at the halfling. The crossover strike hits her hard in the inside of her left forearm with a resounding smack and as the serpent recoils again two ugly holes have been stabbed in flesh. She immediately feels an excruciating burn as the snake's venom craws up her arteries, making its way towards her heart.
OOC:
Gilly may take an action as usual on her next turn, but she will also have to make a Saving Throw vs. Death/Poison on that turn. For 1st Level Halflings she needs to roll an "8" or better (wow, I didn't realize Halflings were as hardy as dwarves in B/X... The's some hope still...)
As the snake recoils for another strike, Angel drives an arrow through it's throat. The snake thrashes in pain for a moment then gets itself in a coil, an arrow sticking crossways through its snake... neck?
OOC:
Round 1 continues! Turn order is as follows:
1. Gilly (7)
2. Giant Snake (4)
3. Angel (3)
-->4. Eltrezar (1)
5. 2. Elmo (6, 2-handed)

Eltrezar can hear the commotion from the Grand Hall, but he's not going to make it close enough this turn on 40' of movement. If he runs at a full sprint he could get 80' to X23, and from there he would have a shot if he throws a dagger over Gilly's shoulder (at probably a -2 penalty).

Rolls

Giant Snake Attack roll, Damage roll - (1d20, 1d3)

1d20 : (19) = 19

1d3 : (3) = 3

Jan 17, 2021 6:44 pm
Hearing the abnormally loud hiss echo through the courtyard, Eltrezar charges towards the sound. He had already lost two companions today, and he was especially fond of the Halfling who was likely in danger. His wizened lungs burned as he sprinted for the first time in ages, hoping he was not too late.
OOC:
Eltrezar will spend his turn running (double movement if possible) towards the combat. I trust that the DM using Roll20 have a more accurate idea of where I can end up.
Jan 17, 2021 7:03 pm
Eltrezar rushes into the hallway and sees a huge serpent coiled before Gilly who is bleeding badly from her forearm. From behind him he hears Elmo rush into the hallway. He gives a gasp seeing Gilly's bite and shouts, "Little one, get back! Everyone retreat behind me! Fire at it if you must, but retreat behind me and let it deal with my axe, if it advances!"
OOC:
Round 1 ends; Round 2 begins! Turn order is as follows:
-->1. Gilly (8)
2. Eltrezar (5)
3. Angel, Giant Snake (2)
4. Elmo (8, 2-handed)

Remider: Gilly can make a move and action per usual, but she needs to make a Saving Throw vs Death/Poison ("8") as well.
She is currently at 4HP.
https://i.imgur.com/2A4L3qv.png

Rolls

Angel Initiative roll - (1d6+1)

(1) + 1 = 2

Gilly Initiative roll - (1d6+2)

(6) + 2 = 8

Eltrezar Initiative roll - (1d6-1)

(6) - 1 = 5

Elmo Initiative roll - (1d6+2)

(6) + 2 = 8

Giant Snake Initiative roll - (1d6)

(2) = 2

KCC

Jan 17, 2021 11:41 pm
Gilly let’s out a painful scream as the snake sinks it’s fangs into her arm. She thinks about running, but sees Angel beside her, resolute and firing shots into the beast! And more have come from behind to help. Gilly is no coward, she’s an adventurer! Steeling herself, and gritting her teeth, she slashed out, and raises her shield prepared for an attack.
OOC:
Boy I hope we can kill this thing before it kills me!

Rolls

Attack - (1d20+1)

(16) + 1 = 17

Damage - (1d6+1)

(5) + 1 = 6

Death/Poison - (1d20)

(16) = 16

Jan 18, 2021 12:17 am
Dagger drawn, Eltrezar steps right behind Gilly to get line of sight on the serpent. A grunt is all the party hears before he throws the blade, hoping to end this before it gets worse. After all, the Halfling's veins were likely coursing with venom at this point. Urgency dictated they end the conflict quickly. Unfortunately, the sprinting left him far more winded than anticipated, and his aim is affected by the gasping for air.
Last edited January 18, 2021 12:17 am

Rolls

Attack - (1d20)

(5) = 5

Damage - (1d4)

(3) = 3

Jan 18, 2021 1:01 am
Angel moves to V26, nocks another common arrow and fires one more time at the adder. A more determined look crosses his face and he holds his breath as he releases.

Rolls

bow attack on adder - (1d20+2)

(11) + 2 = 13

damage from arrow - (1d6)

(3) = 3

Jan 18, 2021 1:05 am
OOC:
Holy crap, "Killey Gilly" and "Danger Angel"... Ok, give me a chance to get home and update this tonight.
Jan 18, 2021 1:29 am
OOC:
Hrmph! "Nobody told me that we needed to have badass rhyming names. Otherwise the Æther from which I spawned would have chosen something more witty."
Jan 18, 2021 1:56 am
Ignoring Elmo's heeds Gilly stands her ground and slashes at the snake again, a sever cut across the perpindicular of its length just about Angel's arrow. The slash opens and Gilly gets the briefest glance at the esophagus running through it. she then is forced to focus on the venom running up her arm. It runs up her arm and into the center of her chest, but seems to stop there, but Gilly seems weakened and has to force herself to sand on her feet...

Eltrezar steps behind her and throws a dagger and hears the familiar clatter of the blade against the wall.

Angel draws another arrow and fires with his bow. The projectile strikes the serpent in the head and it hits the floor. Rises up again, and crashes to the floor again. The snake uncoils from it's striking posture and unravels. Its length continues to squirm and slither, going nowhere, but the arrow through its head is enough evidence it's dead.

https://i.imgur.com/YRMkYGG.png
OOC:
Gilly is down to 1HP. The snake is dead. Two barely moving bundles squirm on the floor of the room.

Rolls

Giant Snake venom damage - (1d3)

(3) = 3

Jan 18, 2021 2:03 am
The wizard takes a quick glance around the room while rushing to his short friend's side. Upon reaching her, he yells back to Elmo to check the cocoons (he hasn't had time to determine that they're rope) before kneeling down to see if his knowledge is of any use in poisoning. "What have you done now, little one? We were supposed to head back to town, not get eaten by serpents!"

KCC

Jan 18, 2021 2:23 am
Gilly feels nauseous almost immediately after the snake acts out it’s death flop. Holding her stomach, she stumbles a pace, and empties her breakfast on the floor. She rubs her mouth with her tunic sleeve and weakly responds:

"Heard... something..."

She smiled weakly at Eltrezar. "Time... to... go?"
Jan 18, 2021 12:05 pm
Hearing a dull, muffled sound of battle, shortly after it felt like he had been moved, the barbarian, tightly bound, in darkness and feeling his mouth bound and gagged, tries to wriggle free again.
"it’s useless......try again......no moving.....try again..." is almost a mantra running through his mind. "Have to meet my end standing, weapon in hand, not trussed like a pig fattened for slaughter" his inner voice growls at him, yet again, as the impotence and helplessness settle in again
Jan 18, 2021 3:36 pm
The dull sensation of movement near by pierces Mal's haze and she begins to thrash against her bindings once more. She couldn't tell how long she had been like this, only that her arms and legs had stopped feeling the pinprick sensation of circulatory pain long ago.

"Mmmmm! Mmmmmm! Mmmmm!"
Jan 18, 2021 7:36 pm
While Eltrezar helps Gilly, Elmo and Angel go to the bundles. With one of his own daggers, Angel slices at the ropes at a point where he would not endanger anyone inside. If Elmo has no dagger of his own, he will hand his other danger to the big man.
Jan 18, 2021 8:01 pm
Bindings cut, you remove the burlap bags from the heads of the prisoners and find a dwarven woman and a barbarian-like male with filthy rags shoved in their mouths and strips jammed in their ears which they can easily remove now that their hand have been freed.
Jan 18, 2021 8:10 pm
Not a particularly imposing figure, Eltrezar moves his position to be standing between Gilly and these two strangers. He draws a dagger, but does not take on an offensive stance. "And who do we have here? Who are you, to be trapped in this place?"
Jan 18, 2021 8:38 pm
Coughing as the gag comes out, a grubby looking dwarf sits rubbing the circulation back into her limbs. Her gaze darts around through narrowed eyes in search of danger but the only thing she can focus on is Gilly's bright red hair.

Eltrezar asks his questions and Maloria swivels around to face the mage.

"I'm Sister Mal of the Church of Cuthbert in Hommlet, and I thank ye kindly for your service. I was sent to find out who was squattin in this keep, but the buggers got the jump on me."

Mal stands up and stretches out her aching limbs,

"You haven't seen a hammer layin about have you?"
Jan 18, 2021 8:58 pm
Looking around this room, there's no abundant evidence of any armor, weapons, or traveling gear. Some broken furnishings litter the floor in the northwest corner of the room. In the southeast corner a small rubble-filled hole leads to the outside, and in the north east a pile of debris clogs the arrow slot. The debris seems to be a mix of things blown in from outside over the years: leaves, cattail fluff, fine dirt, and the like. It appears this was the snake's nest, as littered among this detritus is a number of bones, those belonging to small animals as well a some that appear to have been humanoid.
https://i.imgur.com/XfXYVGy.png
Jan 18, 2021 9:26 pm
OOC:
I don't know what Gilly and Eltrezar did to push Angel out of the way but it was Angel who was cutting one of the bundles open.
Jan 18, 2021 9:36 pm
OOC:
Lol, you're right. I just shoved all the tokens in the hallway into the room. I'll adjust that on roll20.
https://i.imgur.com/mPNkDQU.png

KCC

Jan 19, 2021 1:27 am
Gilly stands behind the magic user, peering between his legs as Angel goes about the work of cutting them loose. Her breathing starts to slow, as she begins to regain control of herself. With the emergence of two figures, she grabs her short sword as best she can, ready to defend herself if necessary! For now, she watches on as the meeting carries on!
Jan 19, 2021 2:09 am
Mal spots Gilly, sword in hand, and smiles at her broadly.

"Oi, good to see one of the wee-folk, and another red head at that!"

Mal claws distractedly at her own tangled mop while she admires the halfling's locks.

"Mind if I ask who sent you lot? Did the church round up a mob ta come an look for me?"
Jan 19, 2021 8:52 am
Sitting up, a deep scowl furrowing his craggy brow, the scars on his face warping to weird shapes with the movements of his face, the barbarian, rubbing his wrists to get his hands back to life as quick as possible, eyes the crowd around him suspiciously
"My sword..." he growls. "My thanks...." he groans slightly as he stands, eyeing the small halfling and the wizened old man in front of him, seeing the bared steel, taking a defensive posture. His eyes dart from blade to blade, and though he is clearly not ready or able to fight, he makes ready to defend himself should the need arise
"Who’re youse people? Youse the ones who caused the ruckus?"
Jan 19, 2021 4:04 pm
Eltrezar's eyes narrow, but the dagger drops to his waist. Hearing the Dwarf speak the name of Cuthbert and mentioning coming from town helped put him at ease. But this wild man... he worried the magicker. Hrmph! "We're the ones who saved you from likely death, or worse. The church did not send us, no, but we came here on good terms with them. We were, instead, sent by our own desire to adventure and help the town... and by Brother Smythe. You had best be worth the trouble of trying to rescue you, as the danger in this small fort is seemingly insurmountable. We have already lost two of our own to battle, and sent a third back to town."

Recognizing that he is going on a rant instead of assisting the newcomers, he coughs and begins again. "But pardon my rudeness. My name is Eltrezar the Medium, known amongst the elves as Tarathiel, and the dwarves have called me Dalomdûmir." He eyes the new man up and down. "And the Barbarians of the North have titled me Hrattothvok. I have come to discover the secrets of this moathouse, and to investigate the strange men who have been seen here. My companions may each have their own unique quest, but we are all here ultimately for the same purpose. And now that you are freed, we would ask that you assist at least we return to the town. After all, you owe us your lives."
Jan 19, 2021 5:09 pm
Looking at the old man with barely disguised contempt, Loken spits out "Yer a magicker? I’ll owe Ye naught." he spits at the floor as he fires his words out venomously.
He turns his head to take in the others there. The red headed halfling looks a handy sort, confident with that bow in her hand. He cranes his head to look upon the dwarf, his fellow captive "I could sense yer by my side. I trust you, as you was held bonded like me"
Jan 19, 2021 5:49 pm
Mal examines the large, rough man and decides he is a good sort.

"Yes, I am Sister Maloria, but you can call me Mal. It looks like they wanted us for a reason, though I know not what. From where were you taken warrior?"
Jan 19, 2021 7:12 pm
"Tis Loken, Sister. I were taken on the road t’ward ‘Ommlet. I was camping, and awoke bound and gagged. I assume they had a filthy magicker to stop me awaking and putting steel to them.......
Looking around more, Loken spies Elmo and Angel. His eyes narrow once more "Be there more of youse? A small group who has felled a con mighty enough to capture two warriors must be mighty indeed......unless you had help of the dark arts? he sneers this list but as he looks darkly at Eltrezar
Jan 19, 2021 8:05 pm
The look on Eltrezar's face could speak volumes towards the insult he takes. "If you'd prefer, we can tie you back up and let you wait for another band to find you. We'll even leave a sign outside, 'damsel in distress inside, arcanists need not apply'." He spits these words, clearly meaning to upset this new warrior. "But I believe it is in everyone's best interest if you stop your griping and help us for now. It is just the four of us, down from the seven who began this expedition."
Last edited January 19, 2021 8:06 pm
Jan 19, 2021 8:40 pm
Mal puts up both hands toward Eltrezar in defense of her partner in captivity and smiles agreeably.

"No offense Sir, I spent time among the hill folk and I know their ways. Loken here is likely a man of stout heart, but his kind are raised ta hold no faith in magic."

Mal places a hand on the wildman's bicep in comfort.

"As for us, we be lucky this lot came along, and true enough you an I is in their debt. A life debt not to be taken lightly aye?"
Jan 19, 2021 8:42 pm
Seeing the introductions starting to turn sour between the barbarian and the wizard, Elmo interjects with a slurring voice. "I'm thinkin' yeh'd best leave this lie for the time bein', yeah? S'far's I can see it, we 'ave a common enemy 'ere. Or a'least had a common ememny... emmeny... a commone foe afore we slew 'em.
"Now also s'far's I can see it weren't th' only emen-- ...foes we come across. B'tween the toads, tha' lizard, and this 'ere snake, it seems t' me creatures lurkin' 'roun' this castle 'ave a way o' growin' big enough to make a meal out'o a man and we standin' aroun' measurin' who's lot the biggest swords, so t'speak...

"Speakin' o' which... The two o' you ain't got none o'those it seems. Surely yeh di'n' come empty-'anded, and suposembly the brigands we slew took 'old o' yer 'quipment. Which we never found when we was lootin' they corpses. So I suggest we look for yer gear or we get out o' 'ere and 'ead back to town to lick our wounds afore some sort o' giant turtle come lookin for summat for eatin' on.
"In the mean time, the bandits left a bunch o' they own gear lyin' about when they died. Some crossbows... some short swords... A long sword, I think... Couple o' shields..."

He looks the barbarian over a minute and says, "Probably nothin' fittin' yer size for armor...", then looks at the dwarf, "or you, for tha' matter, but the swords are prob'ly pointy enough for the time bein'..."
Jan 19, 2021 8:50 pm
Having a hard time making out the man's words, the dwarf leans in and listens intently. The gist seems to be that he wants them to use the weapons of the brigands' and on that point, Mal agrees.

"True enough, the cads you slew left decent steel likely, lead us to it good sir!"
Jan 19, 2021 9:17 pm
Another scoff from Eltrezar before he turns his back to the barbarian, and returns the dagger to his belt. "Are you all right little one? Are you able to keep going?"

KCC

Jan 19, 2021 11:38 pm
The words come faster now and Gilly regains some of her confidence. She sizes herself up mentally against the dwarf. Mal is closer to Coulson in size, but Gilly had to admit the resemblance was there!

"Yes I’m, okay... we can keep... looking around. Their..." she points to Mal and Loken "... things must... be here somewhere!"
OOC:
OOC I want to explore more stuff and get some more shiny stuff. It’s a harder sell narratively. :D
Jan 20, 2021 2:17 am
Mal smiles at the halfling and nods in agreement. She searches the room she was tied up in first and then moves up the hallway rooms looking for her gear.
Jan 20, 2021 3:11 am
dominion451 says:
She searches the room she was tied up in first and then moves up the hallway rooms looking for her gear.
OOC:
Is there anywhere specific in this room Mal is searching, or just a general once-over?
Jan 20, 2021 3:47 am
OOC:
I suppose mostly a general search, unless something looks interesting

*And she'll use her dwarf stone detection senses instinctually
Last edited January 20, 2021 3:48 am

Rolls

Dwarf sense 1-2 - (1d6)

(4) = 4

KCC

Jan 20, 2021 4:04 am
OOC:
What’s giving off that terrible smell in the room? We must be able to see it clearer now too! Do we need to beware?
Jan 20, 2021 4:07 am
OOC:
That would be the barbarian.
Jan 20, 2021 4:14 am
OOC:
The foul odor seems to be coming from the debris making up the snakes nest, where the arrow slot is built into the wall in the northeast corner.
Jan 20, 2021 4:53 am
Angel helps Mal clear the remaining ropes and rags so they can leave then follows the group into the hallway.
Jan 20, 2021 6:11 am
OOC:
Mal will search the snake nest to find the source of the odor.
Jan 20, 2021 4:09 pm
As he begins to move off to search th room, Loken sees Eltrezars sidelong glance and sniff, and noticing the malodorous stench, self consciously smells himself, as discreetly as he can
"That smell is not me spellslinger!" he complains. "But aye, yer sozzled companion ‘as it right fer now. Steel is steel an’ I can use steel."
He gives a knowing nod of thanks to Mal for her intervention
Jan 20, 2021 4:14 pm
"If someone finds it prudent, we should check the remainder of the rooms in this hallway. And do a thorough search, as we keep finding these wonderful treasures tucked away out of sight," Eltrezar says, touching the silver baton from a pocket tucked away in his robes. He walks into the hallway, dagger in hand- 'Fool me thrice...'- and stops at the first door on the left. After a moment of listening at the door, he will open it if there are no sounds emanating from the room beyond.
Last edited January 20, 2021 4:15 pm
Jan 21, 2021 12:58 am
Angel and Mal begin searching the source of the foul odor, digging around in the snake's nest, with their hands. Much of the nest consists of various organic detritus that has blown into the arrow slot over the years, but a significant portion of it is comprised of various animal bones. Some of these seem half-digested and thus half decomposing still. And with any digested, or half-digested material, comes a significant layer of feces to sort through.

The thief and dwarf are about over digging through the refuse, hands covered in feces and rotten plant and animal matter when Angel's hands find something hard, yet smoother than digested bone. As his hands run over it, he feels a small sting of the nick of a blade and drawing his hands free with object in hand, he finds a beautifully crafted dagger. It's blade is sharp and it's handle seems to be of silver and gold, with a gorgeous red jewel embedded in the hilt.

Meanwhile, Eltrezar walks to the nearest unexplored door on the left hand side and puts his ear to it. Listening as best as he can, despite the noise from the room behind him, he hears nothing to indicate the room is occupied. He tries the door handle. It turns.
He opens the door with a squeaking resonance, and finds...
...an empty bed chamber. Once the quarters of someone of medium importance, a castle troop leader or some other petty official perhaps, this place is now a total wreck. The bed is chopped to pieces, and the furniture is smashed or missing. One thing that Eltrezar does find with note is a pile of gear. A set of plate mail, a set of chain mail, a two-handed sword, a warhammer, a shield, and a couple hand axes, along with some other various adventuring sundries... Eltrezar doesn't have to put too much effort into it to put two-and-two together and figure out these items probably belonged to the dwarf and barbarian the party has just rescued.


https://i.imgur.com/LgSkBdw.png

Rolls

Eltrezar Listen roll - (1d6)

Jan 21, 2021 7:10 am
The wizard pokes his head back into the large chamber and calls out, "Dwarf, I believe your equipment is in this room. It is with luck that it is close at hand. And you...- a moment's pause, itself clearly an insult- your rubbish seems to be here as well."

Without any clear danger, he returns to the room and pokes around, seeing if there is anything tucked away. He also looks for any money pouch that would be made from animal hides, and likely very smelly. Yes, he looks for the barbarian's money pouch.
Jan 21, 2021 9:37 am
Stalking over with long purposeful strides, Loken enters the bedchamber "What was the matter, it all too heavy fer you to pick up?" he asks sarcastically, as he dons his chain Mail, making sure to flex his scarred, toned muscles in the wizards face

KCC

Jan 21, 2021 11:53 am
OOC:
Would a near-death Halfling object to this?
Gilly stands in the doorway, keeping an eye on the hall, the room with the magic user, and part of the room that held the snake!
Jan 21, 2021 5:54 pm
Finishing up the search of the snake nest, Mal is disappointed to find only the ornamental knife, which she makes no claim on. Just then the wizard pops in and delivers some good news.

"That's fantastic! Thank you for your efforts sir!"

Mal heads for the room Eltrezar mentioned and spies her gear sitting in a pile. She spends some time strapping her armor back on and stowing her weapons and then rejoins the group with a renewed sense of purpose.

"Feels good to be whole again."
Jan 21, 2021 7:50 pm
Under his breath, the wizard mutters to himself. "You do seem good at lifting things. Putting things down. Getting tied up. Not much else." It is a simple movement to cross the hall, to the door on the right side. Once again, he listens in- and shushes the barbarian, whether or not he made any noise- before opening the door.
Jan 22, 2021 12:54 am
OOC:
Its 5:45 MountainTime. Give me till 9:30 pm to make my post tonight.
Jan 22, 2021 1:42 am
OOC:
The physical therapy appt took all day today. It's amazing that a small city of maybe 150k pop takes 40 minutes to drive through on major roads. Then I had to stop at a couple of pharmacies and someplace for lunch. I'm amazed that so many people are out getting lunch at quarter to 2 in the afternoon. It's now dinner time and I'm not even the least bit hungry.
Angel pops his head up briefly as Mal seems to be called away on some other important mission. He looks back at the dagger with a big grin and then at his hand. Stepping away from the pile of crap he's been digging through he swings his water skin around and dribbles a few ounces onto the hand that got cut to rinse away the feces and other dirt. Thinking he doesn't want more of them same stuff on his hands he goes back to the pile but uses his sword to move stuff around. He will continue that activity for a few minutes while the others go to recover their lost gear. If they haven't returned by the time he's done, he will try to recover any arrows that might be reusable.
Jan 22, 2021 10:32 am
Checking his weapons for damage as he places them about himself, Loken, a grim smile at being armed once more, scowls as he looks about "The thriving swine stole my coin purse" he growls in frustration "I made that purse from the remains of my first kill!"
Jan 22, 2021 6:19 pm
OOC:
Sorry, I meant to post last night but I had to go back up to work and do actual work, not "sit-around-my-office-playing-D&D-work".
Eltrezar walks to the door across the hallway, and put his ear ti the door. From within the room he hears something.
It sounds like a light rustling noise. At first it's sporadic, but gradually as his ears keen in on the noise, it appears to be almost constant. Holding his focus on the rustling sounds he also picks up the occasional high pitch breaks of some sort of intermittent squeaking.

Meanwhile Angel finds nothing else of value in the snake's nest, and all of the arrows he fired seem to be in good condition still.

Rolls

Eltrezar Listen roll - (1d6)

Arrow retrieval roll - (1d6)

Jan 22, 2021 6:32 pm
Turning to Torek (who is likely finishing donning his armor), and spits out a new challenge to his honor. "You, buffoon, it sounds like you could learn some grooming habits in this here room. But all insults aside, I hear something inside. It sounds like rats to me, but based on the great serpent we slew to save your pungent rear, it is likely to be a gargantuan variant of the species. It seems to be time for you to earn your keep"
Jan 22, 2021 6:54 pm
Mal hears the wizard mention gargantuan rats and trots over to lend assistance.

"Loken and I are ready! I know I could stand to pound on something right now."

Mal looks up at the warrior and winks. She stands, weapon in hand, ready to breach the door...
Jan 22, 2021 7:08 pm
With a scowl and a grumble, Loken replies, not quite under his breath, "Theres a rat I could happily pound on righ’ now" looking darkly at the back of the wizards head. More loudly, he calls to Eltrezar "Fear not wizard, I will save you from the bad smell of havin yer ‘ead up yer own arse, an’ I’ll keep yer safe from the mean thing that’s fearin’ yer so"
Jan 23, 2021 8:46 pm
Eltrezar stands by the door for a few moments, awaiting any sort of action. It does not take long before he realizes neither warrior is opening the door. "Like hounds at the door..." he mutters as he then opens the passage.
Jan 23, 2021 9:27 pm
"Allow me Sir, better to let the armor go first."

The dwarf stops Eltrezar just as he is about to turn the knob and steps forward in the line.

Mal waves Loken and Elmo forward and once the three are ready she kicks open the door.
Jan 23, 2021 10:33 pm
Angel watches the interplay from the rear but nocks an arrow and draws back the string as soon as the dwarven woman hits the door.
Jan 24, 2021 11:36 am
The barbarian readies his two handed sword and prepares to enter
Jan 24, 2021 7:20 pm
Mal kicks open the door, and for a moment she sees nothing to indicate the source of the sound. This room was once very opulent, obviously a place of many expensive furnishings. The remaining bits and tatters still appear rich, though none seem of any value. Curious-looking mounds of a whitish muds seem to cover the floor, and a split second after taking in the room, a rush of blurred motion descends from the ceiling rafters.

Amid a cacophony of screeching and high squeaks, a rusk of dark objects begin circling the room in a cyclone of energy. Their combined motion generates enough energy to blow like wind through Maloria's hair, like a breeze on her face. Suddenly one object darks from the room, flapping past the cleric's ear. Another object shoots through the open doorway, and another, Then they spil out in pairs of two and groups of three or four. One of the screeching creatures slaps roughly against Maloria's face before fleeing down the hallway to the north, and another flies past her and gets tangled in Eltrezar's beard, hissing and screaming in the tiniest voice at the wizard.

Gradually more and more bats rush from the room, causing such a confusion you're all unable to keep your eyes open. Bats slap your faces, tangle in your hair and garments, and occasionally bite at you with tiny needle-like teeth before flapping away again down the hallway and adjoining rooms!


https://i.imgur.com/494Qswy.png
Jan 24, 2021 7:33 pm
The wizard was no stranger to bats. After all, they are expected when one spends a life in dark, dank libraries and decrepit towers looking for lost knowledge. But this! Eck! Pbth! "What did you do?! Boccob's beard, Dwarf, have you no patience?" Eltrezar cries this out as he ducks down, hoping to avoid the main flight path of the swarm. He also combs frantically through his beard and then attempts to tuck it into his robes. Hat and cloak engulf the frail man.
Jan 25, 2021 1:39 am
Sorry about that... Mal says to Eltrezar as she brushes the guano from her armor. Seeing no more activity from the rafters, she cautiously enters the room and looks around for anything of value or importance. While the church's teachings discouraged Mal from the wonton accumulation and hoarding of wealth, the dwarf in her could scarcely resist the lure of gold, or better yet that of a mighty weapon of eldritch enchantment like the higher ranking members of the church liked to parade around.
Last edited January 25, 2021 1:39 am
Jan 25, 2021 9:45 am
With a great guffaw of belly deep laughter, Loken, tears almost streaming from his eyes, points at Eltrezar "You must be a mighty mage indeed old man, that winged rodent did verily empty its own bowls the moment it got tangled in your thorny visage"
When he eventually gathers himself from his mirth, he calmly tells the wizard "The dwarf did no wrong in my eyes, surprise is the best advantage when going into an unknown danger..." as he wanders into the chamber, his breath his taken "...Verily, the riches on display here are enough to make a poor barbarian a king!" he exclaims, eyes wide at the opulence before him - where the others see a decrepit room, Loken sees a palace
Jan 25, 2021 3:26 pm
Mal rolls her eyes and uses all of her mountain fortitude to suppress the laughter welling up inside her belly. With a sideways look she chides her partner in captivity good naturedly, though she cannot keep the smile from her face entirely.

"Now Loken, leave the Wizard be. They have been through much today."

KCC

Jan 25, 2021 3:26 pm
Assuming some one will turn over the now bat-less room, Gilly begins to get curious about the other rooms. It’s possible there’s more people to be found here, and more cold blooded creatures too...
OOC:
Gilly will move up to the final D on this side of the map. And listen...
Last edited January 25, 2021 3:27 pm
Jan 25, 2021 4:46 pm
Mal busies herself searching the bat room to keep from laughing at the feud between Loken and Eltrezar. She checks everything thoroughly before moving on to the next room.
Jan 25, 2021 4:58 pm
With the bats mostly gone, the wizard assists the Dwarf with examining the room. He also collects some bat guano, knowing that it may come in use for some more powerful magicks. He also allows Mal to stand between himself and the barbarian.
Jan 25, 2021 5:10 pm
Trying to make friends with her new alliance, Mal sparks up some chit chat with Eltrezar as they search.

"Soooooo... How long did you have to practice to become a wizard? Seems like an exciting life of secrets and discovery. Do you know any dwarf wizards?"
Jan 25, 2021 5:43 pm
Mal and Eltrezar sarch the room, finding nothing of value besides bat guano. As they search and talk, Gilly goes to the final room in this corridor and listens at the door. She hears nothing coming from the other side.

Rolls

Gilly Listen roll - (1d6)

Jan 25, 2021 7:34 pm
Seeing nothing to interest him in the bat room Angel steps back into the hall and sees Gilly at the next door. He will take a step toward her but remain silent.
Jan 25, 2021 7:54 pm
dominion451 says:
"Soooooo... How long did you have to practice to become a wizard? Seems like an exciting life of secrets and discovery. Do you know any dwarf wizards?"
"About time one of you two had some manners. Thank you for asking. I was but a young man when I began my studies, and it took countless years before I could tap into the arcane energies of the universe. Shaping and control take a lifetime to master, not like swinging around a piece of metal and hoping for the best. It has been the dedication of my life, and the secrets I have learned would turn your hair white. As for Dwarf wizards, I cannot say I've met any... though I have seen incredible works crafted by the mountain folk. Doors that open into mountainsides, opening only when the password is spoken." As Eltrezar speaks to Mal, the tone of his voice does not betray any intended insult, he may just have an ego that vastly outweighs his actual arcane mastery.
Last edited January 25, 2021 7:55 pm

KCC

Jan 26, 2021 12:19 am
Knowing better than to go too far alone this time, Gilly will look back over her shoulder, and see Angel approach. She beckons him to the door quickly, pressing a finger to her lips.

Once she joins him, she nods her head, and twists the door handle open, and pushes the door in, while standing to the side as much as possible, for fear of anything that might jump out.

If the coast is clear and no bats or other creatures emerge, Gilly will poke her head out and take a peek into the room!
Jan 26, 2021 2:42 am
In the mean time Angel aims his bow at the doorway ready to fire if anything leaps out at them and will follow Gilly into the room should she enter but keeping a couple paces behind her.
Jan 26, 2021 10:14 pm
Finding nothing in the bat room, Mal trots over to the door Gilly is about to open and stacks up in the hallway ready to breach.
Jan 30, 2021 5:28 pm
Gilly shoves the door open a,d takes in a pile of old furniture reduced to broken rubble. This room was once a conference chamber, but is now empty. Its dirt and wreckage show no signs of any recent occupants, though a couple of small rats are seen scurrying away. There is a dust covered writing desk on the north side of the room and an old wall case stands on the south side, it's contents missing save for a couple of cobweb filled shelves.

https://i.imgur.com/34lkNax.png
Jan 30, 2021 5:42 pm
Mal does a thorough search of the room, starting with the desk.
Jan 30, 2021 6:30 pm
Mal uses a turn to check the 10'x10' area around the desk, which proves to be mostly empty. It's covered with a thick layer of dust disturbed by the scurrying footprints of an occasional rat walking over its surface looking for food or nesting materials to take back to its home. Cobwebs cover the desk, a couple pieces of blank parchment which crumble like ash when the cleric picks them up, and a small small inkpot, it's contents long ago dried up.

Rolls

Mal Search roll - (1d6)

Jan 30, 2021 6:38 pm
Leaving the batcav.....bat room, and the irritable old spell slinging demon, sorry, wizard, Loken comes up behind the rest of the group. He just stands there, watching
Jan 30, 2021 7:16 pm
Angel makes a rather loud, grumpy sound. "Well if there is any treasure in this place, it's not in this room. Is there any place we haven't been yet?"
Jan 30, 2021 7:52 pm
"We'll be wanting to check the walls and furniture in this place as well. These old fortresses were often built with tricky stonework, secret passages for the lords to come and go by."

Mal checks behind the desk and shelves in this room, pulling them out a bit and looking for any building tricks or passages.

"Maybe we should all check, in case one of us misses something."
OOC:
detect construction tricks 2in6 and search for secret doors
Jan 30, 2021 8:42 pm
Having already given the desk a thorough search, she inspects the wall shelf. It's covered in more cobwebs and dust. A few rusty and tarnished candle holder set here still, though they appear to serve more of a tuilitarian purpose rather than be made of any valuable materials for decoration. A couple of books set on the bottom shelf, but like the parchment on the desk, the pages and brittle with age and fall apart as soon as they're touched, not to mention they have been partially eaten by rats using the pages to build nests somewhere.

She's about to give up on the wall shelf as just more useless junk when she notices with he keen dwarven eyes, that the top of the shelf isn't flush with the wall like the bottom one is. Inspecting further, she notices that above the wall shelf are small holes that look like they might have been used for brackets of some sort but the stone has crumbled at some point. As she reaches behind the shelf
and pulls it away from the wall, she finds a long slender object, and reaching in she drags it out to discover a very fine longsword was wedged behind the splintered wall case, probably having fallen behind it at some point.

Rolls

Mal Search roll - (1d6)

Jan 31, 2021 12:08 am
Hrmph! "It would seem that we have discovered all the secrets this hallway had tried to hide. You newcomers have a true thirst for exploration, so perhaps we could investigate the adjacent hallway. Several rooms there, and we were unable to thoroughly explore any. And please keep an eye and careful hand out for any arcane scrolls. If the previous owners were as crafty as you say, Dwarf, it is likely they had some secrets written on parchment as well."

Eltrezar begins walking to the hallway to the north, but moves slowly. After all, it was quite unwise for a frail man to take the lead. Let the barbarian walk into a trap. In the north, men like that were a copper per dozen.
Jan 31, 2021 1:18 am
"Ah-ha!" Mal exclaims as she pulls the blade from it's dusty tomb behind the shelf.

"I'm tellin' ya, these old castles are FULL of secrets! We should search the rooms you have already checked but in more detail. The old master might have had a secret wine cellar..."

She looks around at the group and holds out the sword to any who would claim it.

"Blade like this is against my order, Loken you look like the only fellow here who might get some use out of it, but I'd hand it off to our rescuers first out of appreciation."

Once resolved, Mal moves eagerly back out of the hallway and up toward the great room. It's the first time she has left the hallway in days and she is eager to see the rest of her temporary home. Looking toward the greatroom, Mal makes her way in and looks around at the scattered bedrolls and realizes it must have been the bandits lair.

"Just a moment, let me check the master suite. If I was gonna put a secret wine cellar somewhere if put it in my bedroom."
OOC:
detect construction tricks 2in6, check for secret doors
Last edited January 31, 2021 1:24 am
Jan 31, 2021 2:46 pm
Loken watches the miserable, dusty old codger move off - "He is old, if he sets off a trap, we won’t be losing any one important. Or strong. Or untainted by devils magic" he thinks to himself
Jan 31, 2021 6:51 pm
"Aye, you do have the nose for treasure. But try not to take too long, I still hope to return to town today. The bandits we questioned earlier mentioned frightful noises at night, and I do not believe we are fit to fight whatever may have caused them. After all," and Eltrezar glares at Loken, "it only took a few pox-ridden men to capture you and leave you to die."
OOC:
Eltrezar will hang out in the hallway and wait for Mal to finish her searching before heading to the unexplored hallway.
Jan 31, 2021 7:43 pm
Angel is not well trained with the blade so will leave that for someone better suited. As he moves off he revisits the earlier locations where he left arrows trying to see what he can salvage including that one well crafted arrow he shot.
Jan 31, 2021 7:53 pm
With Angel passing on the sword Mal hands it to Loken.

"Here ya go, maybe it's lucky!"

The Dwarf returns to searching the bandits quarters in the greatroom for construction tricks and secret doors...
Feb 1, 2021 4:20 am
Mal returns to the bandits' quarters and inspects the room more closely. It takes ten minutes to give a 10' x 10' areas a thorough search. Is there a specific area Mal is checking?
https://i.imgur.com/xY5vFDf.png

While Mal inspects the quarters, Eltrezar moves to the hallway and waits, while Angel passes the wizard and makes his way down to the Giant Lizard room to try and recover his arrow. The arrow is there and he can see that the finely crafted fletching on the shaft is miraculously still as exquisite as it was previously. It should probably fly as true as the remaining +1 arrow he has left in his quiver.
https://i.imgur.com/T743HlF.png

Rolls

+1 Arrow retrieval roll - (1d6)

Feb 1, 2021 4:43 am
OOC:
Mal will check the solid sections of wall to her north, east, and west.
Feb 1, 2021 12:33 pm
Taking the sword from Mal, Loken gives a grunt of thanks as he looks at it longingly. An extra blade is always a boon. At Eltrezars barbed comment, Loken gives a mean smile "Such a wonderous sorcerer, to be a feared of some night sounds....." he sneers at him, casting a wary eye about nonetheless.
Feb 1, 2021 5:05 pm
Without missing a beat, "The fear is that my new companions will be unable to provide any formidable defense. Greater than you have fallen today, and I worry that the Dwarf here will not be able to bear the load alone. You, barbarian, have yet to prove any worth. Now quit flapping your lips so futilely and find something to poke with your pieces of metal." Eltrezar stands impatiently as Mal searches, and it is clear that he desires more urgency in their exploration this day.
Feb 1, 2021 9:22 pm
As the wizard and barbarian continue to jab barbs with one another Mal remains in the room the brigands were holing up in. 30 minutes passes as the party waits for the young cleric to inspect the walls with her keen dwarven eyes.

Mal, for her part spends ten minutes searching the wall to the north first. But after careful scrutiny she cannot find anything of interest. She then moves to the wall on the west. Again she searches the rough stone for any sign of hidden craftsmanship, and after another ten minutes she feels certain the wall is only a wall.
She moves on to the east wall. Another ten minutes elapses and her concentration is frequently thrown off by the grumblings of the wizard about wasting time and his constant bickering with their new companion, coming from outside the room. Just as she's about to give up the room for a waste of time, her eyes catch a pattern of unusual consistency in the stonework, behind a ruined tapestry.
Almost as if the boundaries of each stack of stone all meet up in a set of vertical rows about 4' apart, instead of the usual random placement if the rest of the walls. Something about the stone placement and where they join up here seems too uniform.


https://i.imgur.com/toqSAqY.png

Rolls

Mal Search roll (North) - (1d6)

Mal Search roll (West) - (1d6)

Mal Search roll (East) - (1d6)

Feb 2, 2021 1:26 am
"Ah-ha!" shouts the dwarf back to her new companions,

"Wine cellar!"

Mal heads back to the intersection of the hallways with a big grin on her face. She looks around for the others and hot foots it over to share the news.
Feb 2, 2021 4:33 am
Angel hurries back into the room and takes up a position to fire at anything that moves (other than the people he knows).
Feb 2, 2021 2:36 pm
"By Boccob's beard, thank goodness! A little wine would go a long ways after a day such as this." The wizard's shoulders slump in weary complacency as he shuffles towards the voice called out. While he shows little care across his face, the dagger in his hand tells of his expectation for an ambush. 'It is most unwise to partake in such a place as this, but after Coulson and Alice... and with how close Gilly is to the great beyond...
Last edited February 2, 2021 2:59 pm
Feb 2, 2021 6:42 pm
"’Tis something we can agree on, wizard. Wine, show us dear dwarf" Loken, seeing the grim tenseness in Eltrezars countenance and bearing, readies his new sword too
Feb 2, 2021 7:41 pm
Glad to be the peacemaker between parties, Mal smiles wide and runs back to the great room to where she discovered the hidden door. She pushes on the door to see if she can't force it open...
Feb 3, 2021 5:01 am
As everyone draws near, Maloria pushes on the stone wall, which does in fact have the edges to indicate a door of some sort. It gives nothing to her shoves.

KCC

Feb 3, 2021 6:53 am
Gilly pipes up from the back, her head throbbing, eyes sore, not helped by the bickering and the thought of Alice out in the courtyard alone.

"Is there a lock? Or... maybe the big one can break it down?"
Feb 3, 2021 6:54 am
"Everyone search for the catch! There's gotta be a hidden latch or push plate."

Mal tries pushing on the various sizes of the door and searches the stonework around the door for anything that might indicate how to open it.

KCC

Feb 3, 2021 7:02 am
Gilly will push up to the front and place her hand against the door. She will rest an ear against the wall to listen for anything that may be behind the stone door.

Having done that, she will follow the wall around, pressing gently as she goes!

Rolls

2/6 Listen - (1d6)

(5) = 5

Feb 3, 2021 3:29 pm
Hearing Gilly suggest he try and open the wall door, Loken sheathes his new sword
OOC:
does he notice anything special about it?
, and he steps up to test his strength against it
OOC:
Reroll. Typed wrong dice
Last edited February 3, 2021 3:30 pm

Rolls

Strength - (1d10+2)

(1) + 2 = 3

Strength - (1d20+2)

(6) + 2 = 8

Feb 3, 2021 6:42 pm
The stonework doesn't seem to have any keyholes or locks, and Gilly hears nothing behind the thick stone. The barbarian takes his turn at the wall but the stonework seems as solid as any other section of the wall that hasn't started crumbling away with time and exposure to the elements.
OOC:
Just to give you an idea of what were talking about here, this is what the wall looks like behind the old tapestry:
https://i.imgur.com/L57XKb8.png
[ +- ] And this is what your PCs see after Maloria's dwarven eyes spot it:
Feb 3, 2021 8:14 pm
Mal attempts to manipulate the smaller stones in the door, seeing if she can push them in or twist or even pull them to trigger the opening.

"If we can't force the door we may have to search the room further for a secret trigger..."
Feb 4, 2021 7:55 pm
Mal spends another ten minutes attempting to maneuver each stone, but none of the stones budge. They remain as solid as their counterparts and the mortar filling the spaces between stones seems solid and intact.
Feb 4, 2021 9:11 pm
Angel watches what Mal and the others are doing for a few minutes then makes a suggestion. "Maybe you should take a step back and visualize the space. Maybe take a walk around the moathouse so you can tell how large a space might be behind that door. Is it a room or maybe only a wardrobe?"
OOC:
I can't visualize it myself since I don't have the map memorized
OOC:
Went back through all the pages and looked at all the maps and the room we are in appears to be the entry room where Gilly ad Angel first entered the moathouse. So, the apparent doorway is on an outer wall. But it also seems that there are a couple of rooms that we have not even entered yet.
Last edited February 4, 2021 9:28 pm
Feb 4, 2021 11:22 pm
"Given that we are at the ground floor, it is possible that this secret door opens only out, as a secret means of escape. I would propose that we continue searching this floor, and return with fresh eyes in the morning. Otherwise, we may waste valuable daylight on something that cannot be opened." Eltezar says this with some regret in his voice, likely related to the lack of accessible wine.
Feb 5, 2021 12:27 am
Wiping sweat from her brow, Mal steps back and nods to Angel and Eltrezar.

"You're right, let's finish the top floor before we go crackin' open any casks. I'm much less thorough after wine."
Feb 5, 2021 5:39 am
"Aye. And there will be wine aplenty in the tavern. Please, given your unfatigued state, lead the way. We have a few rooms left to clear before we can happily call it a day. And do be careful, I cannot bear any more loss on this day." Eltrezar's eyes don't leave the secret door as he talks, and you might get the impression that an unhealthy amount of wine might be on his to-do list.
Feb 5, 2021 6:57 pm
Elmo watches Eltrezar looking longingly back at the prospect of a wine cellar, and nods. "'Tis a a heavy heart for us both to share, wizard."
He leaves the room to follow the others with their inspection of the castle.
OOC:
Assuming everyone has left the room and section of wall that appears to contain a hidden door for now, there are probably only three remaining areas of interest (at least that are readily evident by casual inspection):
https://i.imgur.com/eQ4ONM7.png
At R9 the Great Hall leads to what appears to be a room without a door. Down the hallway a closed door remains unexplored at N12.

https://i.imgur.com/pykPSWQ.png
Finally, in the southwest corner of the castle, at location I27, the castle tower remains. The party was so busy fighting the brigands in the Great Hall it was passed over after combat so that the brigands' room could be searched.
Feb 6, 2021 1:50 am
Seeing the opening so close, Mal walls toward the opening in the great room cautiously...
OOC:
Mal checks R9
Feb 6, 2021 4:52 am
Eltrezar follows behind Mal, accepting her armor as a shield of his own. Dagger in hand, he prepares to help examine any area. He keeps his distance from the barbarian, seemingly tired of the arguing.

KCC

Feb 6, 2021 12:50 pm
Gilly follows behind. This room, then another... and there’s that tower, too.

She looks at the people arranged around her! Could there be more tied up, being used to sustain snakes or lizards somewhere in this fort?
Feb 6, 2021 6:17 pm
Mal approaches the open doorway and looks inside to find a storeroom. A stairway of stone leads down into the earth on the east side of the room. To her left, against the south wall, a picked over shelf stands crawling with giant rats desperately looking for food. More loiter about the top of the stairway. They are hungry and fearless, and when they see Mal they rush after her, and with their squeals, more rush up from the staircase from below.
https://i.imgur.com/1FOGkGy.png
OOC:
Neither side was surprised this round. Thirteen Giant Rats make up the enemies in this combat, and I was tempted to just make one roll for them all, but I don't want them to have a chance to "zerg rush" on any of you in one fell swoop, so I went ahead and rolled individually for each rat, and hopefully that will give your party a chance to break up their rush and hack some down and reduce their numbers before someone gets chewed to pieces all at once.
As far as which party member the rats target each round when their turn comes up, I will randomly roll a 1d6 on each rat's attack. The "Target Selection" roll will play out as follows:
1. Angel
2. Gilly
3. Eltrezar
4. Loken
5. Mal
6. Elmo

Round 1 begins! Turn order is as follows:
-->1. Angel, Eltrezar, #4, #5, #12 (5)
2. Loken, #1, #8 (4)
3. Gilly, #3 (3)
4. Maloria, #7, #10, #13 (2)
5. #2, #6, #9, #11 (1)
6.. Elmo (7, 2-handed)

I noticed Aldrusian posted while the Please Hold image was up and I was editing the post, so Angel's token isn't in the image where he probably wanted it, but I'll make note that Angel moved forward to cover the others, and he and Eltrezar are first up in the turn order. For the time being, just call out a number between 1-13 if you're attacking a Giant Rat and I'll apply any damage to that number. As they begin to spill out of the room I'll start labeling them, but I had labels on in this tiny room and it was a complete overlapping mess
you couldn't make heads or tails of.

Rolls

Secret Roll

Secret Roll

Angel Initiative roll - (1d6+1)

(4) + 1 = 5

Gilly Initiative roll - (1d6+2)

(1) + 2 = 3

Eltrezar Initiative roll - (1d6-1)

(6) - 1 = 5

Loken Initiative roll - (1d6)

(4) = 4

Maloria Initiative roll - (1d6+1)

(1) + 1 = 2

Elmo Initiative roll - (1d6+2)

(5) + 2 = 7

Giant Rat #1 Initiative roll - (1d6)

(4) = 4

Giant Rat #2 Initiative roll - (1d6)

(1) = 1

Giant Rat #3 Initiative roll - (1d6)

(3) = 3

Giant Rat #4 Initiative roll - (1d6)

(5) = 5

Giant Rat #5 Initiative roll - (1d6)

(5) = 5

Giant Rat #6 Initiative roll - (1d6)

(1) = 1

Giant Rat #7 Initiative roll - (1d6)

(2) = 2

Giant Rat #8 Initiative roll - (1d6)

(4) = 4

Giant Rat #9 Initiative roll - (1d6)

(1) = 1

Giant Rat #10 Initiative roll - (1d6)

(2) = 2

Giant Rat #11 Initiative roll - (1d6)

(1) = 1

Giant Rat #12 Initiative roll - (1d6)

(5) = 5

Giant Rat #13 Initiative roll - (1d6)

(2) = 2

Feb 6, 2021 6:54 pm
Angel covers Mal and Eltrezar with his bow as they head to the door to the back room.
Last edited February 6, 2021 6:56 pm
Feb 6, 2021 8:07 pm
OOC:
I'll let the rats go right now just so you guys have something to fight and don't have to waste a turn waiting for them to burst out of the room.
One Giant Rat rushes at Maloria, scurries up her leg, using her armor for purchase and bites her hard on the neck, opening up a large wound which gushes blood.
Another Giant Rat rushes the room aiming for Eltrezar, but since Maloria blocks the doorway, it bites at her instead.
The third Giant Rat goes directly after Mal as well, but she fends it off.
OOC:
Round 1 continues! Turn order is as follows:
-->1. Angel, Eltrezar, #4, #5, #12 (5)
2. Loken, #1, #8 (4)
3. Gilly, #3 (3)
4. Maloria, #7, #10, #13 (2)
5. #2, #6, #9, #11 (1)
6.. Elmo (7, 2-handed)

Maloria takes 3HP Damage from the first Giant Rat bite. Each Giant Rat is about 3' long. As long as Mal continues blocking the doorway, the Giant Rats' have no choice but to focus their attacks on her solely, and there's going to be little anyone else can do in terms of melee attacks, as the doorway is acting like a bottleneck. Ranged attackers can still fire at them, but will suffer a penalty to their attack rolls as the rats are using Maloria as cover.
On the other hand, I would say that three 3' rats are about all that could occupy a 5' space in front of Maloria, and so, like the PCs, the rats are at a standstill for their melee attacks as well. Maloria has a decent armor class, but is it going to be enough to withstand a constant barrage of rats for long if she holds at the doorway?

Rolls

Rat #4 Target Selection roll, Attack roll, Damage roll - (1d6, 1d20, 1d3)

1d6 : (4) = 4

1d20 : (19) = 19

1d3 : (3) = 3

Rat #5 Target Selection roll, Attack roll, Damage roll - (1d6, 1d20, 1d3)

1d6 : (3) = 3

1d20 : (12) = 12

1d3 : (2) = 2

Rat #12 Target Selection roll, Attack roll, Damage roll - (1d6, 1d20, 1d3)

1d6 : (4) = 4

1d20 : (16) = 16

1d3 : (2) = 2

Secret Roll

Feb 6, 2021 9:20 pm
"Rats!" cries out the wizard, as he takes a small step back. The sudden rush of animistic hunger being halted by the armored frame of his new Dwarven friend was not lost on him, and Eltrezar takes a moment to consider his options. "Barbarian, time to prove your worth against these Rodentia gigantes! Have at them!" He flings a dagger at one of the rats but finds his aim hindered by the Dwarf before him. Finally, he leaps out of the way to allow the warriors an opportunity to enter the fray.
OOC:
Eltrezar throws a dagger at Rat 1, which is any rat he has a decent shot of hitting past Mal. The rules say the GM assigns the penalty for cover. He then moves back ten feet to get out of the way.
Last edited February 6, 2021 9:24 pm

Rolls

Attack - (1d20)

(3) = 3

Damage - (1d4)

(2) = 2

Feb 6, 2021 9:56 pm
Quote:
The rules say the GM assigns the penalty for cover.
OOC:
Good point. I would say due to Maloria's small stature as a dwarf, but wearing bulky plate armor, the penalty for ranged attacks around her is going to be -2.
Eltrezar throws a dagger at one of the rats and hears the now all-too familiar sound of metal clattering against stone somewhere on the other side of Maloria.
OOC:
Round 1 continues! Turn order is as follows:
-->1. Angel, Eltrezar, #4, #5, #12 (5)
2. Loken, #1, #8 (4)
3. Gilly, #3 (3)
4. Maloria, #7, #10, #13 (2)
5. #2, #6, #9, #11 (1)
6.. Elmo (7, 2-handed)
Feb 8, 2021 4:53 am
Of the three Giant Rats around Mal, Angel fires an arrow at the one farthest from her.
Last edited February 8, 2021 6:33 pm

Rolls

bow attack on Giant Rat (dex & cover cancel out bonus) - (1d20)

(13) = 13

Damage from arrow - (1d6)

(6) = 6

Feb 8, 2021 7:34 pm
Angel snaps off a shot. The arrow whistles past Mal and strikes one of the rats. An abrupt squeal is cut short and it dies, an arrow running through the length of it's body.
OOC:

Round 1 continues! Turn order is as follows:
1. Angel, Eltrezar, #4, #5, #12 (5)
-->2. Loken, #1, #8 (4)
3. Gilly, #3 (3)
4. Maloria, #7, #10, #13 (2)
5. #2, #6, #9, #11 (1)
6. Elmo (7, 2-handed)
With Mal blocking the door, Loken isn't going to be able to get in there with his new sword.
https://i.imgur.com/RgLghoW.png
Feb 8, 2021 8:36 pm
Storming forward with his new sword In hand, Loken comes up behind Mal. Seeing he can’t get past, he slides his sword past her, aiming to skewer the rats, as if he were in a shield wall

Rolls

Sword attack - (1d20+2)

(8) + 2 = 10

Damage - (1d8)

(3) = 3

Feb 8, 2021 9:08 pm
Loken barrels in looking to get at least some sort of action in this fight, but his attempts to stab past Mal prove fruitless as a result of the awkward angle, length of his sword, and the little cleric obscuring his view of targets.

Angel sees the press of bodies at the door is going to make it all but impossible to get another shot off with his bow, and the rats on front of Maloria are all but completely obscured now.

Another giant rat rushes in to fill the space previously occupied by its fallen companion and takes a bite at Mal, but it doesn't even come close to her with its teeth.

https://i.imgur.com/fXD43IO.png
OOC:
This is really becoming a knife fight in a phone booth real quickly, and unfortunately for the rats, as with the party, there's no more room for them to occupy a space to make a melee attack Mal at the doorway, and #8 must forfeit it's turn while #1, #4, and #5 try and pick the cleric apart. This gives you a tactical decision to make: Keep Mal at the door where only she is able to make melee attacks, but only deals with 3 rats at a time, and hopes her AC1 can keep her safe against the assault, or move away from the door, letting the rats free to rush into the room where everyone has a chance to fight, but also become subject to rat bites with inferior AC than Mals plate armor.

Round 1 continues! Turn order is as follows:
1. Angel, Eltrezar, #4, #5, #12 (5)
2. Loken, #1, #8 (4)
-->3. Gilly, #3 (3)
4. Maloria, #7, #10, #13 (2)
5. #2, #6, #9, #11 (1)
6. Elmo (7, 2-handed)
The only rat visible to Gilly would be #5 who is directly in front of Mal but can be seen through the doorway. None of the others can be seen from the halfling's position.

Rolls

Giant Rat Attack roll, Damage roll - (1d20, 1d3)

1d20 : (3) = 3

1d3 : (1) = 1

Feb 8, 2021 9:17 pm
OOC:
Eltrezar had backed up 10'. He should be one square up and right from Angel.
Feb 8, 2021 11:05 pm
OOC:
You're right, cowleyc... I will make that adjustment.

KCC

Feb 9, 2021 2:05 am
Gilly will move back, to give the others some space to set up a kill box, and then fire a shot from her bow through the legs of the cleric!
OOC:
I understand it’s a -2 to hit, right? So I’ll just fire at a +1 instead of the usual +3
Having missed the rats, somehow managing to fire under the legs of her companions but over the heads of the rats, she draws her sword, ready to meet them when the emerge from the room next turn!
Last edited February 9, 2021 2:06 am

Rolls

1d20+1

(8) + 1 = 9

1d6

(6) = 6

Feb 9, 2021 2:30 am
Mal keeps the hole plugged until Elmo has moved into position, at which point she will step back from the swarm of vicious bities this giving others a chance to hack away.
Feb 9, 2021 6:20 am
OOC:
@KCC69: Where does Gilly position herself, exactly?

KCC

Feb 9, 2021 6:26 am
OOC:
U9 looks good!
Feb 11, 2021 1:16 am
Elmo moves to the area to Mal's left and stabs swipes his great axe through the doorway, cleaving the rat directly in from of Maloria.

https://i.imgur.com/hSeWvU4.png
OOC:
Round 1 ends! Round 2 begins! Turn order is as follows:
--> 1. Gilly (8)
2. Loken, #8, #9 (6)
3. Angel, Maloria, #4, #6, #11, #13 (5)
4. #7 (4)
5. Elmo, #10 (3)
6. Eltrezar, #1, #2, #3 (2)

Rolls

Elmo Attack roll, Damage roll - (1d20+4, 1d8+4)

1d20+4 : (12) + 4 = 16

1d8+4 : (8) + 4 = 12

Angel Initiative roll - (1d6+1)

(4) + 1 = 5

Gilly Initiative roll - (1d6+2)

(6) + 2 = 8

Loken Initiative roll - (1d6)

(6) = 6

Maloria Initiative roll - (1d6+1)

(4) + 1 = 5

Elmo Initiative roll - (1d6+2)

(1) + 2 = 3

Giant Rat #1 Initiative roll - (1d6)

(2) = 2

Giant Rat #2 Initiative roll - (1d6)

(2) = 2

Giant Rat #3 Initiative roll - (1d6)

(2) = 2

Giant Rat #4 Initiative roll - (1d6)

(5) = 5

Giant Rat #6 Initiative roll - (1d6)

(5) = 5

Giant Rat #7 Initiative roll - (1d6)

(4) = 4

Giant Rat #8 Initiative roll - (1d6)

(6) = 6

Giant Rat #9 Initiative roll - (1d6)

(6) = 6

Giant Rat #10 Initiative roll - (1d6)

(3) = 3

Giant Rat #11 Initiative roll - (1d6)

(5) = 5

Giant Rat #13 Initiative roll - (1d6)

(5) = 5

Eltrezar Initiative roll - (1d6-1)

(3) - 1 = 2

Feb 11, 2021 1:34 am
After Elmo completes his move Mal, having held her turn until then, steps back to open the area infront of the door.
Last edited February 11, 2021 1:34 am
Feb 12, 2021 1:12 am
OOC:
Oh yes, you are correct. I forgot you declared that earlier. Alright, I'll move Mal to T9 and now Round 2 begins with Gilly.

KCC

Feb 12, 2021 1:52 am
There’s a lot of movement between Gilly and the rats. She’ll need to thread her shot carefully. Her tongue sticks out ever so slightly as she looses her arrow, aiming low.

Rolls

1d20+1

(17) + 1 = 18

1d6

(4) = 4

Feb 12, 2021 3:17 am
Gilly fires at one of the rats that was attacking Mal and the arrow strikes it, killing it dead.

Suddenly two Giant Rats, starved for something to eat, rush out of the door way and attack.
OOC:
The rats have three targets to choose to attack from in this kill box, which will randomly choose by Target Selection roll of 1d3. Targets are as follows:
1: Maloria
2. Loken
3: Elmo
The first rat attacks Loken and misses, the 2nd rat goes after Maloria but again is unable to penetrate her plate armor.
OOC:
Round 2 continues! Turn order is as follows:
1. Gilly (8)
--> 2. Loken, #8, #9 (6)
3. Angel, Maloria, #4, #6, #11, #13 (5)
4. #7 (4)
5. Elmo, #10 (3)
6. Eltrezar, #1, #2, #3 (2)
https://i.imgur.com/rscsqzD.png

Rolls

Secret Roll

Giant Rat #8 Target Selection roll, Attack roll, Damage roll - (1d3, 1d20, 1d3)

1d3 : (2) = 2

1d20 : (6) = 6

1d3 : (1) = 1

Giant Rat #9 Target Selection roll, Attack roll, Damage roll - (1d3, 1d20, 1d3)

1d3 : (1) = 1

1d20 : (15) = 15

1d3 : (2) = 2

Feb 12, 2021 5:33 am
OOC:
Apologies for going out of turn but I didn't want the game to slow down just because I didn't log on first thing in the morning.
Angel draws a bead on the next rat that shows its ugly head in the doorway

Rolls

Attack rat with bow - (1d20+2)

(19) + 2 = 21

Damage with bow - (1d6)

(3) = 3

Feb 12, 2021 8:48 am
Swinging at the rats in front of him, Loken just tries to hit one

Rolls

Attack - (1d20+2)

(2) + 2 = 4

Damage - (1d8)

(6) = 6

Feb 12, 2021 11:29 pm
Loken takes a swipe at the nearest rat with his newfound longsword, but he's been accustomed to swinging his heavier two-handed sword for some time now and the balance and use of only one arm to attack feels alien and seems to throw his swing off for now. Perhaps some practice with it will do him some good, and Gods know he'll probably get plenty of practice in before this horde is dispatched of.
As he looks down at the rat another spills out the doorway crowding it's companions for a bite of flesh to fill its belly. Again, it throws itself at Maloria, and again her use of plate armor defends the attack. Suddenly a "thwip" spouds from behind her and another of Angel's arrows hit it's mark. It gives a squeal of pain but does not die. Ither rats press forweard at the door, but can't find room to get within biting range.
OOC:
Round 2 continues! Turn order is as follows:
1. Gilly (8)
2. Loken, #8, #9 (6)
--> 3. Angel, Maloria, #4, #6, #11, #13 (5)
4. #7 (4)
5. Elmo, #10 (3)
6. Eltrezar, #1, #2, #3 (2)
https://i.imgur.com/2DEY0GI.png

Rolls

Giant Rat #6 Target Selection roll, Attack roll, Damage roll - (1d3, 1d20, 1d3)

1d3 : (1) = 1

1d20 : (12) = 12

1d3 : (1) = 1

Feb 13, 2021 1:21 am
Mal whacks away at the rats as they pour out of the room. She plants her feet and keeps her shield up in front of her to keep the vermin from flooding forth and surrounding her companions.

Rolls

Attack - (1d20+1)

(19) + 1 = 20

Damage - (1d6+1)

(5) + 1 = 6

Feb 13, 2021 6:56 pm
OOC:
I'll randomly roll to see which rat Maloria attacked.
1: #6
2: #8
3: #9
Mal brings he hammer down on the rat that Angel has already gravely wounded with his arrow, and the rodents spine crushes under her blow as blood and offal splatter from it's mouth and from around the arrow wound.

Another rat rushes from the hole and climbs atop it's fallen companion to attack, biting at Elmo this time, and failing to get through the man's armor.
OOC:
Round 2 continues! Unable to press more than three rats in the kill-box, the other rats must wait their turn, and therefore turn order is as follows:
1. Gilly (8)
2. Loken, #8, #9 (6)
3. Angel, Maloria, #4, #6, #11, #13 (5)
4. #7 (4)
-->5. Eltrezar, #1, #2, #3 (2)
6. Elmo, #10 (3, 2-handed)

Giant Rat #8, #9, and #11 are currently in the killbox.

Rolls

Maloria Target Selection roll - (1d3)

(1) = 1

Giant Rat #11 Target Selection roll, Attack roll, Damage roll - (1d3, 1d20, 1d3)

1d3 : (3) = 3

1d20 : (5) = 5

1d3 : (3) = 3

Feb 13, 2021 7:52 pm
With the rats spilling out of the room and into the blades and hammers of his companions, Eltrezar attempts to do his part by throwing one of his knives into the swarm. He draws a bead on the rat with an arrow sticking out of it, breathes, and releases.
OOC:
Eltrezar throws a dagger at the rat Angel had previously wounded.

Rolls

Attack - (1d20-1)

(13) - 1 = 12

Damage - (1d4)

(4) = 4

Feb 13, 2021 8:42 pm
OOC:
The rat with the arrow sticking out of it (#6) is dead after Maloria smushed it with her hammer. You can tell by all the blood and guts splattered out of its mouth and arrow hole. They don't usually do that unless they ded. But I like the roll, so we're keeping that one and I'll roll randomly to see which of the ones currently in the kill-box you hit.
1: #8
2: #9
3: #11
Oof, actually I forgot the -2 penalty the rats get for partial cover provided by Eltrezar's companions.
Surprisingly, Eltrezar's dagger finally looks like it might hit something when a "clanging" sound resonates. The dagger's handle strikes the armored leg thigh of Maloria and the dagger sails off into the room once again, failing to hit it's intended target.
Elmo comes in for another swipe with his battle axe and cleaves another one in half.

Rolls

Eltrezar Target Selection roll - (1d3)

(3) = 3

Elmo Attack roll, Damage roll - (1d20+4, 1d8+4)

1d20+4 : (8) + 4 = 12

1d8+4 : (5) + 4 = 9

Elmo Target Selection roll - (1d3)

(2) = 2

Feb 13, 2021 9:01 pm
OOC:
Round 2 ends, and five of the Giant Rats have been dispatched. This kill-box tactic has proven to be rather effective at controlling how many rats can move or take any action each round, forcing the majority of them to forfeit their turn as they wait to fill in an empty space. At around 3' long, I'm thinking they're starting to have to climb atop the corpses of their companions right about now.

Round 3 begins! Turn order is as follows:
--> 1. Maloria (7)
2. #3, #11 (6)
3. Gilly, Eltrezar, Loken, #1 (5)
4. #13 (4)
5. Angel, #7, #10 (3)
6. #8 (1)
7. Elmo (4, 2-handed)
It should be noted to Mal that at the start of her turn #11 and #8 are the only ones available to attack
https://i.imgur.com/mq81hI6.png

Rolls

Angel Initiative roll - (1d6+1)

(2) + 1 = 3

Gilly Initiative roll - (1d6+2)

(3) + 2 = 5

Eltrezar Initiative roll - (1d6-1)

(6) - 1 = 5

Loken Initiative roll - (1d6)

(5) = 5

Maloria Initiative roll - (1d6+1)

(6) + 1 = 7

Elmo Initiative roll - (1d6+2)

(2) + 2 = 4

Giant Rat #1 Initiative roll - (1d6)

(5) = 5

Giant Rat #3 Initiative roll - (1d6)

(6) = 6

Giant Rat #7 Initiative roll - (1d6)

(3) = 3

Giant Rat #8 Initiative roll - (1d6)

(1) = 1

Giant Rat #10 Initiative roll - (1d6)

(3) = 3

Giant Rat #11 Initiative roll - (1d6)

(6) = 6

Giant Rat #13 Initiative roll - (1d6)

(4) = 4

Feb 13, 2021 9:59 pm
OOC:
Kill box always works. In game and IRL.
Mal continues to hammer away at the oversized rodents...

Rolls

Attack - (1d20+1)

(13) + 1 = 14

Damage - (1d6+1)

(5) + 1 = 6

Feb 14, 2021 6:16 pm
OOC:
Rolling Target Selection roll for Maloria.
1: #8
2: #11
Maloria crushes another rat with her hammer, and the remaining one attacks Loken but misses.
Two more rats fill the kill-box. As the first one spills through the doorway it spots it's companion trying to take a bite from Loken, and immediately assumes the barbarian must be the choice meal. It rushes over, barreling it's hungry companion to the side and bites, taking a sizable chunk of flesh from Loken's arm. The second one goes after Elmo, but fails to get any meat from its target.
OOC:
Huzzah! The kill-box wasn't 100% effective after all! Our first hit! Loken takes 2HP Damage
Round 3 continues! Turn order is as follows:
1. Maloria (7)
2. #3, #11 (6)
-->3. Gilly, Eltrezar, Loken, #1 (5)
4. #13 (4)
5. Angel, #7, #10 (3)
6. #8 (1)
7. Elmo (4, 2-handed)

Current rats in the kill-box are #1, #3, and #11
https://i.imgur.com/l9Fstdf.png

Rolls

Maloria Target Selection roll - (1d2)

(1) = 1

Giant Rat #11 Target Selection roll, Attack roll, Damage roll - (1d3, 1d20, 1d3)

1d3 : (2) = 2

1d20 : (8) = 8

1d3 : (3) = 3

Giant Rat #3 Target Selection roll, Attack roll, Damage roll - (1d3, 1d20, 1d3)

1d3 : (2) = 2

1d20 : (14) = 14

1d3 : (2) = 2

Giant Rat #1 Target Selection roll, Attack roll, Damage roll - (1d3, 1d20, 1d3)

1d3 : (3) = 3

1d20 : (4) = 4

1d3 : (1) = 1

Secret Roll

Feb 14, 2021 8:02 pm
After seeing his knife glance the Dwarf's armor, Eltrezar recognizes the danger in continue to throw bladed weapons through such a narrow area. He takes a moment to aim once again, really focusing on threading the needle between his companions, and throws.
OOC:
Eltrezar aims at one of the rats in view. The attack roll includes the penalty for cover.
Last edited February 14, 2021 10:21 pm

Rolls

Attack - (1d20-3)

(14) - 3 = 11

Damage - (1d4)

(4) = 4

Feb 14, 2021 10:01 pm
OOC:
@cowleyc: For the record, there isn't really any RAW on hitting a companion if you make a ranged attack around them. Basically all I could do is put penalties for cover to make your shot harder. So the dagger glancing off Mal's armor was basically just for flavor to represent that that attack would have hit, except Maloria was in the way and that -2 penalty was what made the difference.

Even on a Natural 1, I wouldn't let a companion take a hit because we ruled against Natty 1s and 20s in the ooc chat earlier.
Feb 14, 2021 10:20 pm
OOC:
Yeah, that decision was very much an in-character thing. But given that my peeps are taking blows, I'll go ahead and make an attack. You can take my dignity, but you can't take my companions!
Feb 15, 2021 12:44 am
OOC:
It was a cool in-character thing. I can dig it. I just wanted to make clear you shouldn't feel compelled to hold your turn for fear of hitting a companion.
Eltrezar throws another dagger, and once again it clatters against the stone floor and bounces away.
OOC:
You should hold your turns. I compel you. You're terrible at knife throwing, lol.

KCC

Feb 15, 2021 12:58 am
twang!
Last edited February 15, 2021 12:58 am

Rolls

1d20+1

(7) + 1 = 8

1d6

(2) = 2

Feb 15, 2021 1:01 am
Gilly fires a shot which misses and there another clattering as it hits one of Eltrezar's daggers.
Feb 15, 2021 9:34 am
Growling at his earlier miss, and with a loud snarl, Loken swings again

Rolls

Attack - (1d20+2)

(20) + 2 = 22

Damage - (1d8)

(5) = 5

Feb 16, 2021 4:42 am
Angel lines up another shot again seeking the rat farthest from any of his companions.
OOC:
I knew this was a bad day to roll.
Last edited February 16, 2021 4:42 am

Rolls

bow shot at rat - (1d20+2)

(2) + 2 = 4

arrow damage to rat - (1d6)

(4) = 4

Feb 16, 2021 7:28 pm
Loken finds the balance of his new longsword and hacks a rat in half right before Angel misses hith his shot.
Another rat appears from the room and takes a failed bite at Maloria and Elmo cleaves another rat to death with his battleaxe.
OOC:
Round 3 continues! Turn order is as follows:
1. Maloria (7)
2. #3, #11 (6)
3. Gilly, Eltrezar, Loken, #1 (5)
4. #13 (4)
5. Angel, #7, #10 (3)
6. #8 (1)
7. Elmo (4, 2-handed)

Rolls

Loken Target Selection roll - (1d3)

(3) = 3

Giant Rat #13 Target Selection roll, Attack roll, Damage roll - (1d3, 1d20, 1d3)

1d3 : (1) = 1

1d20 : (3) = 3

1d3 : (3) = 3

Elmo Target Selection roll, Attack roll, Damage roll - (1d3, 1d20+4, 1d8+4)

1d3 : (2) = 2

1d20+4 : (11) + 4 = 15

1d8+4 : (1) + 4 = 5

Feb 16, 2021 7:38 pm
OOC:
Round 3 ends with three more Giant Rats killed and Loken has taken a minor bite to the arm, losing 2HP with 8HP remaining. Maloria can see that the swarm has thinned considerably. But driven with hunger they press on.
Round 4 begins! Turn order is as follows:
-->1. Angel, Gilly, Maloria (7)
2. #10 (6)
3. #1, #2 (5)
4. #13 (4)
5. Loken (1)
6. Eltrezar (0)
7. Elmo (4, 2-handed)
Only #1 and #13 are currently in the kill-box.
https://i.imgur.com/GSanlY1.png

Rolls

Angel Initiative roll - (1d6+1)

(6) + 1 = 7

Gilly Initiative roll - (1d6+2)

(5) + 2 = 7

Eltrezar Initiative roll - (1d6-1)

(1) - 1 = 0

Loken Initiative roll - (1d6)

(1) = 1

Maloria Initiative roll - (1d6+1)

(6) + 1 = 7

Elmo Initiative roll - (1d6+2)

(2) + 2 = 4

Giant Rat #1 Initiative roll - (1d6)

(5) = 5

Giant Rat #2 Initiative roll - (1d6)

(5) = 5

Giant Rat #10 Initiative roll - (1d6)

(6) = 6

Giant Rat #13 Initiative roll - (1d6)

(4) = 4

Feb 16, 2021 8:01 pm
Mal begins to feel like a blacksmith with all the hammering she is doing, although the rat blood splattered all over her would suggest otherwise. Relentlessly she pounds on...

Rolls

Attack - (1d20+1)

(7) + 1 = 8

Damage - (1d6+1)

(3) + 1 = 4

Feb 16, 2021 11:13 pm
The ceaseless act of hammering begins taking its toll on Maloria's arms, and he next attack misses.
Feb 16, 2021 11:20 pm
Angel fires off another arrow at the farthest rat that he can see.

Rolls

Fire bow at farthest rat - (1d20+2)

(2) + 2 = 4

damage to rat from arrow - (1d6)

(4) = 4

KCC

Feb 16, 2021 11:58 pm
OOC:
Firing

Rolls

1d20+1

(16) + 1 = 17

1d6

(5) = 5

Feb 17, 2021 3:24 am
Distracted by his last shot's failure to hit, Angel takes another shot at the ratts and misses again. Gilly however hits her target and another rat lies dead and skewered.

Two more rats rush forward and all three rats attack, elmo taking a nasty bite to the arm from one of them.
OOC:
Round 4 begins! Turn order is as follows:
1. Angel, Gilly, Maloria (7)
2. #10 (6)
3. #1, #2 (5)
4. #13 (4)
-->5. Loken (1)
6. Eltrezar (0)
7. Elmo (4, 2-handed)

Rolls

Target Selection roll - (1d2)

(2) = 2

Giant Rat #10 Target Selection roll, Attack roll, Damage roll - (1d3, 1d20, 1d3)

1d3 : (2) = 2

1d20 : (2) = 2

1d3 : (3) = 3

Giant Rat #2 Target Selection roll, Attack roll, Damage roll - (1d3, 1d20, 1d3)

1d3 : (3) = 3

1d20 : (18) = 18

1d3 : (3) = 3

Giant Rat #1 Target Selection roll, Attack roll, Damage roll - (1d3, 1d20, 1d3)

1d3 : (2) = 2

1d20 : (4) = 4

1d3 : (2) = 2

Secret Roll

Feb 18, 2021 8:12 am
OOC:
sorry for my absence, been really ill
Loken again swings, determined to do at least some damage to these stinking squirming rats

Rolls

Attack - (1d20+2)

(6) + 2 = 8

Damage - (1d8)

(4) = 4

Feb 18, 2021 4:42 pm
Flustered with his inability to hit a target with all these armored simpletons before him, Eltrezar lets out a loud huff as he launches yet another blade into the fray.

Rolls

Attack - (1d20-3)

(20) - 3 = 17

Damage - (1d4)

(3) = 3

Feb 19, 2021 8:39 pm
OOC:
Assuming Elmo will not kill all three attacking rats I will have Angel take his turn a tad early.


Angel fires yet another arrow into the roiling mass.

Rolls

bow attack on rats - (1d20+2)

(15) + 2 = 17

arrow damage - (1d6)

(6) = 6

Feb 22, 2021 9:01 pm
While Loken's swrd misses any targets, Eltrezar throws a dagger and sinks it in the side of one of the larger rats. It gives a squeal of pain but remains alive.

Elmo, meanwhile gives another heave with his battleaxe and cleaves another rat in two.
OOC:
Round 4 ends! Only three rats remain!

Rolls

Eltrezar Target Selection roll - (1d3)

(3) = 3

Elmo Target Selection roll, Attack roll, Damage roll - (1d3, 1d20+4, 1d8+4)

1d3 : (2) = 2

1d20+4 : (16) + 4 = 20

1d8+4 : (1) + 4 = 5

Feb 22, 2021 9:08 pm
OOC:
Round 5 begins! Turn order is as follows:
-->1. Angel, Maloria, #7 (6)
2. Gilly, Eltrezar, #1 (4)
3. Loken (3)
4. #10
5. Elmo (5, 2-handed)
https://i.imgur.com/MislA7y.png

I wasn't going to allow Angel's attack roll since a new Initiative was rolled before his turn would have come up causing him to act out of turn, but since he rolled the highest and is up first I think it's alright to go with it.
Another rat rushes out of the open doorway and Angel immediately runs an arrow through it as it fails to bite Elmo, and it falls to the floor dead.

Rolls

Angel Initiative roll - (1d6+1)

(5) + 1 = 6

Gilly Initiative roll - (1d6+2)

(2) + 2 = 4

Loken Initiative roll - (1d6)

(3) = 3

Maloria Initiative roll - (1d6+1)

(5) + 1 = 6

Elmo Initiative roll - (1d6+2)

(3) + 2 = 5

Giant Rat #1 Initiative roll - (1d6)

(4) = 4

Giant Rat #7 Initiative roll - (1d6)

(6) = 6

Giant Rat #10 Initiative roll - (1d6)

(1) = 1

Eltrezar Initiative roll - (1d6-1)

(5) - 1 = 4

Angel Target Selection roll - (1d3)

(2) = 2

Giant Rat #7 Target Selection roll, Attack roll, Damage roll - (1d3, 1d20, 1d3)

1d3 : (3) = 3

1d20 : (4) = 4

1d3 : (3) = 3

Feb 22, 2021 9:27 pm
With the end in sight, Mal works her steel hammer like she was mad at it, but the fatigue of so many floor level blows begins to catch up to her and Mal misses her mark once again.

"Blast it all!"
Last edited February 22, 2021 9:28 pm

Rolls

Attack - (1d20+1)

(6) + 1 = 7

Damage - (1d6+1)

(5) + 1 = 6

Feb 22, 2021 9:38 pm
OOC:
Round 5 continues! Turn order is as follows:
1. Angel, Maloria, #7 (6)
-->2. Gilly, Eltrezar, #1 (4)
3. Loken (3)
4. #10
5. Elmo (5, 2-handed)
Giant Rat #1 lunges for Loken snapping at the barbarian's leg, just barely missing the man's hard shin.

Rolls

Giant Rat #1 Target Selection roll, Attack roll, Damage roll - (1d3, 1d20, 1d3)

1d3 : (2) = 2

1d20 : (13) = 13

1d3 : (1) = 1

Feb 22, 2021 10:17 pm
Not yet out of daggers and newly inspired by his recent success (albeit limited), Eltrezar grabs for yet another dagger tucked into his belt. 'Remember to compliment the blacksmith upon our return to town, these were worth their weight in gold!' He flings it into the fray but his wrist cramps at the last second, leading it to fly harmlessly into Maloria's back, hilt-first. CLUNK
Last edited February 22, 2021 10:18 pm

Rolls

Attack - (1d20-3)

(2) - 3 = -1

Damage - (1d4)

(1) = 1

KCC

Feb 23, 2021 10:57 am
OOC:
Come on, Killy Gilly!
OOC:
Brilliant
Last edited February 23, 2021 10:57 am

Rolls

1d20+1

(1) + 1 = 2

1d6

(6) = 6

Feb 23, 2021 6:20 pm
Gilly looses her grip on the arrow she's knocked into her bowstring and it falls to the floor at her feet as Eltrezar's dagger bounces painfully off of Mal's back.
OOC:
Round 5 continues! Turn order is as follows:
1. Angel, Maloria, #7 (6)
2. Gilly, Eltrezar, #1 (4)
-->3. Loken (3)
4. #10
5. Elmo (5, 2-handed)

Loken and Elmo could still wrap this batte up this round, if the dice favor them.
Feb 24, 2021 9:38 am
With a roar of fury at his embarrassing ineptitude so far, Loken swings and stabs again

Rolls

Attack - (1d20+2)

(9) + 2 = 11

Damage - (1d8)

(5) = 5

KCC

Feb 24, 2021 11:02 am
OOC:
How long have we been fighting these rats? ㅠㅠ
Feb 24, 2021 11:27 am
OOC:
17 days I believe.
Feb 24, 2021 11:53 am
OOC:
Loken senses salt coming from the village.....lol
Feb 26, 2021 2:43 am
OOC:
You encountered the rats on February 6, (Bob Marley's b-day, little fun fact for you), so nearly 20 days ago. But you've been fighting the rats for about 30 seconds, in-game.
Loken swings his sword at a rat but misses again. Meanwhile, one of the rats snaps at Mal and misses. Elmo swings his battleaxe again but this time his swing misses.

Rolls

Giant Rat #10 Target Selection roll, Attack roll, Damage roll - (1d3, 1d20, 1d3)

1d3 : (1) = 1

1d20 : (5) = 5

1d3 : (1) = 1

Elmo Target Selection roll, Attack roll, Damage roll - (1d3, 1d20+4, 1d8+4)

1d3 : (1) = 1

1d20+4 : (3) + 4 = 7

1d8+4 : (7) + 4 = 11

Feb 26, 2021 3:04 am
OOC:
Round 5 ends! Round 6 begins! Turn order as follows:
-->1. Loken, Maloria (6)
2. Gilly (5)
3. Angel (4)
4. #7 (3)
5. Eltrezar, #1, #10 (1)
6. Elmo (7, 2-hand)
https://i.imgur.com/MislA7y.png

Rolls

Angel Initiative roll - (1d6+1)

(3) + 1 = 4

Loken Initiative roll - (1d6)

(6) = 6

Maloria Initiative roll - (1d6+1)

(5) + 1 = 6

Elmo Initiative roll - (1d6+2)

(5) + 2 = 7

Giant Rat #7 Initiative roll - (1d6)

(3) = 3

Giant Rat #10 Initiative roll - (1d6)

(1) = 1

Gilly Initiative roll - (1d6+2)

(3) + 2 = 5

Eltrezar Initiative roll - (1d6-1)

(2) - 1 = 1

Giant Rat #1 Initiative roll - (1d6)

(1) = 1

Feb 26, 2021 6:29 pm
Mal swings away at the desperate little buggers...
OOC:
cripes, where'd my luck go??
Last edited February 26, 2021 6:29 pm

Rolls

Attack - (1d20+1)

(4) + 1 = 5

Damage - (1d6+1)

(4) + 1 = 5

Feb 27, 2021 12:25 am
Mal swings again and misses, her shoulders starting to burn with fatigue.
OOC:
Round 6 continues! Turn order as follows:
-->1. Loken, Maloria (6)
2. Gilly (5)
3. Angel (4)
4. #7 (3)
5. Eltrezar, #1, #10 (1)
6. Elmo (7, 2-hand)

Feb 28, 2021 10:34 pm
Angel fires off one more arrow at the rats in the doorway.
OOC:
Angel is so much better at hitting targets that are standing still.
Last edited February 28, 2021 2:29 pm, a total of 1 time

Rolls
bow shot at rats - (1d20+2)

( 5 ) + 2 = 7

damage from arrow - (1d6)

( 4 ) = 4
Last edited February 28, 2021 10:35 pm

KCC

Feb 28, 2021 11:33 pm
OOC:
One more time

Rolls

1d20+1

(9) + 1 = 10

1d6

(1) = 1

Mar 1, 2021 1:58 pm
OOC:
sorry folks, weekend got in the way. And Loken heard that @Eltrezar lol
Swinging and stabbing again with the new sword. Which Loken is beginning to think is cursed to miss

Rolls

Attack - (1d20+2)

(9) + 2 = 11

Damage - (1d8)

(7) = 7

Mar 1, 2021 8:58 pm
Loken swings his sword and barely misses the rat before him, before Gilly and Angel's arrows go sailing past the melee fighters but clatter against the stone wall behind their targets.
One of the rats lunges at Elmo and delivers another sharp bite to the man's forearm, and Elmo gives a small grunt in acknowledgement. Another rat bites at Maloria but misses, and the final rat joins his companion in trying for a snack from Elmo, but the militia man pulls his hand away in time.

OOC:
Round 6 continues! Turn order as follows:
1. Loken, Maloria (6)
2. Gilly (5)
3. Angel (4)
4. #7 (3)
-->5. Eltrezar, #1, #10 (1)
6. Elmo (7, 2-hand)

Rolls

Giant Rat #7 Target Selection roll, Attack roll, Damage roll - (1d3, 1d20, 1d3)

1d3 : (3) = 3

1d20 : (20) = 20

1d3 : (2) = 2

Secret Roll

Giant Rat #1 Target Selection roll, Attack roll, Damage roll - (1d3, 1d20, 1d3)

1d3 : (1) = 1

1d20 : (5) = 5

1d3 : (3) = 3

Giant Rat #10 Target Selection roll, Attack roll, Damage roll - (1d3, 1d20, 1d3)

1d3 : (3) = 3

1d20 : (2) = 2

1d3 : (3) = 3

Mar 1, 2021 9:03 pm
Running low on daggers, Eltrezar takes another one and flings it past his companions. A burning in his arm alerts the wizard to the duration of this fight.

Rolls

Attack - (1d20-3)

(20) - 3 = 17

Damage - (1d4)

(3) = 3

Mar 1, 2021 9:04 pm
Eltrezar throws another dagger. This time the weapon embeds itself in the rat that bit Elmo with a meaty thump and the creature falls dead. Elmo swings at one of the two remaining rats but his bleeding hand causes his battleaxe's grip to be slick and the weapon misses.
OOC:
Round 6 ends with only two rats remaining! Round 7 begins! Turn order is as follows:
-->1. Maloria (7)
2. Gilly, #1 (6)
3. Eltrezar (3)
4. Loken, Angel (2)
5. #10 (1)
6. Elmo (8, 2-handed)

Rolls

Eltrezar Target Selection roll - (1d3)

(2) = 2

Elmo Target Selection roll, Attack roll, Damage roll - (1d3, 1d20+4, 1d8+4)

1d3 : (2) = 2

1d20+4 : (4) + 4 = 8

1d8+4 : (6) + 4 = 10

Angel Initiative roll - (1d6+1)

(1) + 1 = 2

Gilly Initiative roll - (1d6+2)

(4) + 2 = 6

Eltrezar Initiative roll - (1d6-1)

(4) - 1 = 3

Loken Initiative roll - (1d6)

(2) = 2

Maloria Initiative roll - (1d6+1)

(6) + 1 = 7

Elmo Initiative roll - (1d6+2)

(6) + 2 = 8

Giant Rat #1 Initiative roll - (1d6)

(6) = 6

Giant Rat #10 Initiative roll - (1d6)

(1) = 1

Mar 1, 2021 9:51 pm
"Graahhhh! Die vermin!"

Mal brings down the mighty hammer of judgement on the rodent scum...

Rolls

Attack - (1d20+1)

(17) + 1 = 18

Damage - (1d6+1)

(6) + 1 = 7

Mar 1, 2021 11:29 pm
Mal brings her hammer down and crushes one of the remaining rats with her hammer. The surviving rat lunges for Elmo but his bite misses by a country mile.
OOC:
Round 6 ends with only two rats remaining! Round 7 begins! Turn order is as follows:
1. Maloria (7)
-->2. Gilly, #1 (6)
3. Eltrezar (3)
4. Loken, Angel (2)
5. #10 (1)
6. Elmo (8, 2-handed)

Rolls

Maloria Target Selection roll - (1d2)

(2) = 2

Rat #1 Target Selection roll, Attack roll, Damage roll - (1d3, 1d20, 1d3)

1d3 : (3) = 3

1d20 : (2) = 2

1d3 : (2) = 2

KCC

Mar 1, 2021 11:55 pm
OOC:
Shooting...

Rolls

1d20+1

(13) + 1 = 14

1d6

(4) = 4

Mar 2, 2021 7:36 pm
Gilly fires her bow. The arrow slices through the gap between Loken and Maloria hitting the rat attacking Elmo in the side of the neck. It attempts a squeal of pain but it comes out as a coughing gurgle before it dies.
OOC:
Success! The mischief of Giant Rats has been dispatched of with relatively few injuries to the party, and no deaths, through the clever use of a kill-box!
https://i.imgur.com/tbuZJaO.png
OOC:
You now have some decisions to make. There are 2 as yet unexplored rooms in this floor, which may be empty, or may contain any number of vicious creatures that might make up a moth long encounter! There is a set of stairs going underground as yet unexplored. There is one severely wounded Halfling and a pretty badly wounded Cleric, as well as two slightly wounded Militiaman and barbarians. It's approaching atround 3pm.
What... do you do?
Mar 2, 2021 7:51 pm
"Are there any left? Are those blasted rats finally gone? Good gods, this felt like it took ages." Eltrezar lets out a sigh of relief, his arms dropping wearily to his sides. "It is a wonder we did not struggle more, though your tactics proved quite effective, Dwarf. Well done. And you, barbarian, I must thank you for preventing the rats from attacking those of us in the back... even if that is all you did here. Have you considered the use of magicks to improve your sword-arm?"

Pushing past Mal, the wizard goes to collect his knives, using the hem of his robes to wipe away the blood that stain a few of them. He peers into the room beyond, but refrains from entering first. "There had best be some wonders through this doorway, wonders left untouched by these damned rats."
Mar 2, 2021 8:28 pm
It appears this room was once used for storage of dry goods and sundries, but the rats have consumed almost everything down to the last crumb. At the top of one of the highest shelves, however, Eltrezar finds a jug of oil, containing enough oil for 10 flasks.
The only other thing of note is a stairway in the northwest corner of the room which appears to lead deep into the ground. It's very dark, and Eltrezar can just barely make out a stone archway at the bottom of the staircase opening into a room pitch black and too dark to see any details of. You're certain that a light source will be needed to continue past the archways.
Mar 2, 2021 8:53 pm
"Well that was fun," Mal says sarcastically.

"How would you all feel about heading back to town so I can report to the church and we can recover?"
Mar 2, 2021 9:01 pm
"Doesn't look like there's much in this room to recover," suggests Angel. "I would agree to a trip back to the Inn and a good night's rest.
OOC:
Angel will pick up whatever arrows that are still usable and share them with Gilly.
Last edited March 2, 2021 9:02 pm
Mar 2, 2021 9:06 pm
Eltrezar goes to collect the jug of oil, his mind wandering towards alchemical weapons that could be produced with this. Of course, providing light might be a better use.

Hrmph! "Agreed. We can finish exploring this level tomorrow or the following day, and then discover what secrets are held in the depths of this ruin."
Mar 5, 2021 5:47 pm
Deciding it would be most wise to return to Hommlet to heal and rest, and finish investigating the rest of the ground floor and the basement later, the party leaves the storage room and hall way and returns to the great hall, where the bandits' horses, the accumulated loot, and Sister Alice's body wait.

It takes a bit of time to get the horses loaded with all of the gear and loot, and the celebratory feeling of having endured and survived so many formidable foes this day is dampened to a somber tone wen it’s finally time to thrpow Alice’s body on one of the horses, further darkened by the reminder that only this morning the dwarf Coulsen was fighting by your side.
This sense of sorrow is perhaps felt most deeply by Angel, realizing he’s the only remaining member of the party that set out from Verbobonc only two days ago to escort a wagon of wheels to Hommlet’s blacksmith.

The horses loaded and ready to go, the party sets out through the main gate guiding the animals over the rickety, rotting drawbridge. Here they collect their own steed, tied and waiting and continue on..
While it took two hours to get to the Moathouse Ruins, the trip back takes only an hour, the reeds, cattails, and tallgrass having been bushwhacked away already, and the party arrives at the eastern edge of Hommlet by around 4pm.
As you trot your animals along the road, a number of villagers look up to you, and you see their faces filled with concern and a bit of sadness. Many had seen or heard of Coulson’s return earlier in the day and word spread fast. To see Alice’s body being carried in as well now hits harder and the town begins to generate an atmosphere on grimness in the party’s wake. They may not have known who you were when you set out earlier this morning, but they feel your loss and and a sense of dread begins to stir at the thought that something so near their town has taken well-armed amd armored adventurers of your kind.

Many villagers begin pressing Elmo for answers, but Elmo, now fairly sobered up, gives them nothing but answers of the "All will come out soon" variety. As you arrive at the town square in front of the inn Elmo turns to you. "If yeh’ll be so kind as t’ excuse me, I have some matters to attend to. I think I’ll ‘ave me a ‘orn or two o’ ale at the tavern, then I ‘ave t’make a report wi’ the village’s militia and fill them in on what occurred out there t’day. Then I think I’ll visit mehself a ladyfrien’ I ‘ave up north, and ‘ave a bit of a roll-aroun’ wi’ her. I should be gone for abou’ five or six days. If yeh need me services, come and find me after tha’. I’ll be keepin’ the bar from levitatin’ to the tavern’s ceilin’ no doubt."
With that, he gives his horse a little click and heads to the inn’s stables.

You now stand in the square alone together, a few villagers standing by watching you with somber expressions.





[/ooc]

Rolls

Wandering Monster roll - (1d6)

Mar 5, 2021 6:18 pm
OOC:

And now the moment you've all been waiting for... Experience Points! I'll give the totals earned and then well divide that number by 6 for your individual haul before Experience Bonuses are applied.

First we'll start with Enemies Killed XP.
4) Giant Frogs: 153XP
8) Brigands: 80XP
1) Giant Lizard: 189XP
1) Giant Snake: 505XP
13) Giant Rats: 143XP
Total: 1070XP

Now with the Loot XP (be aware that while I give you XP for Loot, you don't get any actual gold until you find somewhere to sell you items).
Brigand Loot
98sp
93ep
2gp
12pp
1 citrine (50gp)
1 gold chain (200gp)
Total: 386.3XP

Hidden Brigand Stash
2000cp
2 bolts fine cloth (120gp)
1 set flagon and goblets (80gp)
1 wooden box (45gp)
Total: 265XP

Salvage Loot
4 Riding Horses (300gp)
1 War Horse (250gp)
Total: 550XP

Other Moathouse Loot
1 Silver Baton (30gp)
33cp
1 chainmail tunic (40gp)
1 light crossbow (10gp)
1 case of 24 quarrels (8gp)
1 jeweled dagger (850gp)
Total: 941.3xp

Total Loot XP: 2142.6
Total Enemy XP:1070
Total Earned XP: 3212.6

Divide this by 6 party members (including Elmo): 535.43XP each

After Experience bonuses I have the following totals awarded to each PC:
Angel: 588.97 awarded for a total of 1276.47 (Level 2 Achieved)
Gilly: 615.74 awarded for a total of 619.19
Eltrezar: 588.97 awarded for a total of 593.27
Loken: 588.97 awarded for a total of 588.97
Maloria: 562.2 awarded for a total of 562.2

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