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Message: <blockquote data-quote="Knight Otu" data-source="post: 2813294" data-attributes="member: 192">[sblock=Google Recovery]Knight Otu12-29-05, 09:47 PMNo, the person is peeking in from the door you entered this corridor from.There are a few small windows, two at about 4 feet height, two more at about 11 feet height. While there is occasionally movement behind one of them, it seems the inhabitants of the keep try to avoid them now, despite the windows being glass.The shape takes another shot, which goes far, then moves for the edge to the secondary courtyard... <Use readied actions as the opponent gets into better view>Xaov12-30-05, 07:18 AMooc: I see so they have not barricaded my doors yet. just some of the others in the cross roads?Azaroth will move towards the edge of the bend. where the head/noise cam from. And look around the corner. Are there armed opponents awaiting me?Patlin12-30-05, 01:31 PMOnce hidden: Banion will move to the square south of Beamer's position. Looks nice and dark there.SlagMortar12-31-05, 10:25 PMSo was Beamer's ready action triggered? Here's an attack roll if so crossbow readied action (1d20+6=23, 1d6=1) (<a href="http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=324945)" target="_blank">http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=324945)</a>. He reloads, 5 foot steps toward his intended destination (R16), and readies again (or fires if he still has a clear shot).Knight Otu01-05-06, 11:00 PMWhile it is hard to tell, it seems the bolt at least glanced the shape as it rushed out, but it didn't drop it. It continues it run for the edge and drops down. A few rhythmic knocks can then be heard. The sounds of barricading continue.You see no enemies in the long corridor after the one person peeking in has vanished, but you believe you hear footsteps over the sounds of the barricading.SlagMortar01-05-06, 11:44 PMBeamer says to Banion, "Sounds like they are digging in. Let's go back to Gur and see if we can get into one of those doors." Beamer double moves (Full speed, Hide +3, Move silently +1) along the outside edge of the wall back to the group's original spot. Looks like it will take 3 rounds of double moves to get all the way back.Patlin01-06-06, 12:55 AM"Perhaps we should quietly loot our fallen foes and withdraw a bit to consider our next move."Banion follows after Beamer, though his desire to stay hidden causes him to fall behind.Xaov01-06-06, 02:32 AMThis is not good. Azaroth says to himself breathing heavily. To get through here is going to take a great amount of skill.hmm what could I do?I don't want to make this place my grave. Not when I am so close to finishing this mission. But my options are starting to feel few and far between.Azaroth looks down at the robes. If only they were stupid enough to fall for that deception. But I wonder........Azaroth takes the time to put on the robes. In the deepest voice he can muster.I'd watch who you point your weapons at soldier. Treachery amongst soldiers is not a forgiveable offense!I am a soldier, my commanding officer Cadoreysian sent me here with a status report. Our wagon was attacked by the very same people whom I believe are attacking this fort now. She sent me, because I am one of the faster runners from her squad.I arrived after the battle started. Not exactly combat prepared I snuck in through the roof to avoid being seen by our attackers. Now let me through! I must deliver this status report!Note: [] is for inner thougtsSlagMortar01-06-06, 03:16 AM"Watch the arrow slits. I can use a spell to grab these torches if you want to climb down." If Banion wishes to attempt to loot the fallen, Beamer will cast Prestidigation and move around grabbing and dowsing the torches, instead of moving back to Gur.Patlin01-07-06, 06:04 PM"Yes, let's do that, but we should gather together our allies first. Where did Azaroth get to?"SlagMortar01-08-06, 07:08 AMIn that case, Beamer heads back to Gur's position.SlagMortar01-11-06, 06:41 PMOOC: So the Banion and Beamer plan is to move back to Gur's location and then start looking for Azaroth. They continue listening closely to the sounds of activity inside. Does anything happen in the 3 rounds or so that it takes Beamer and Banion to get back to the corner with Gur or should we be deciding what to do now that we know Azaroth is missing? Let us know when Azaroth is finished with his actions for the 3 rounds that Beamer and Banion are moving.Knight Otu01-11-06, 06:57 PMI'll let you know if something happens.Azaroth dons the robe he brought along, and then three figures appear - one of the guards, crossbow trained at Azaroth, a dwarven woman, and a dark-skinned half-elf. "Cado's an officer now, you say? News to me, but news travel at their own speed. Of course, you ought to know just how to identify you." the dwarven woman says, fishing something from her belt pouch, as a reply to Azaroth's tale..Xaov01-11-06, 09:44 PMIn a progresively angrier tone Azaroth will say the followingYes Cado is an officer, when Afra fell to the sword, his most trusted companion took his place. As for identifying myself, gladly. After I deliver my report! Every minute of my time you waste puts Cado and the others one step closer to danger! Do you want to be the one responsible for the death of an entire party! I don't think so. NOW STAND ASIDE!!! Intimidation Check 1d20+7=(17) (<a href="http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=333448" target="_blank">http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=333448</a>)Knight Otu01-11-06, 09:58 PMYou hear angry commands from inside. It seems to be Azaroth's voice.While the guard back away from Azaroth, the dwarf just shakes her head. "Enemy." the half-drow says. "Explains where the replacements went, at least. Must have killed at least one of them, but didn't learn everything."The dwarf nods, then says "I fear we must put you under arrest, mister...?"Xaov01-11-06, 11:49 PMYou are correct about one thing.... You should fear me. I will make these halls run red with your blood! Intimidation before starting the attack 1d20+7=(10) (<a href="http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=333618" target="_blank">http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=333618</a>) <speaking infernal> Once I'm through with you, I'll drag your still screaming remains to woods, and leave you to be feasted upon by the wolves!! </speaking infernal>Azaroth's proceeds to attack Initiative: 1d20+1=13 (<a href="http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=333621" target="_blank">http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=333621</a>) RARR!Azaroth will set up to charge the dwarven female on his turn making a called shot to the throat with his Scimitar 1d20+2=21(crit) (<a href="http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=333628);" target="_blank">http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=333628);</a> 1d20+2=8 (not confirmed) (<a href="http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=333631);" target="_blank">http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=333631);</a> for a total of 1d6+2=8 damage (<a href="http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=333633" target="_blank">http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=333633</a>)SlagMortar01-12-06, 01:38 AMBeamer says quietly, "He must be inside. How did he get in? Let's try the back door." Beamer tries to move with as much stealth as he can (MS +6, Hide +8) and let Banion go first if he is willing. Once they are able to climb down, Beamer loads his crossbow before trying the door.Patlin01-13-06, 10:33 PMBanion will do as Beamer suggests.ooc: Ha! Avoided the spoiler blocks! They're driving me crazy.Knight Otu01-13-06, 10:55 PM(Patlin - You can use [spoiler] as well. <img src="https://cdn.jsdelivr.net/joypixels/assets/8.0/png/unicode/64/1f609.png" class="smilie smilie--emoji" loading="lazy" width="64" height="64" alt=";)" title="Wink    ;)"  data-smilie="2"data-shortname=";)" />)You believe to hear Azaroth saying something about blood.Half-Drow - 21Dwarf - 20Azaroth - 13Guard - ?The half-drow draws a club (appearing well-crafted), hissing, barely audible "Careful, he might be out to awaken it." She aims for Azaroth's head, but misses.The dwarf, seeing herself at the brisk of an attack, mumbles some arcane words, and Azaroth is filled with dread (Will save total 4. frightened (<a href="http://srd.pbemnexus.com/abilitiesAndConditions.html#frightened" target="_blank">http://srd.pbemnexus.com/abilitiesAndConditions.html#frightened</a>) for 4 rounds.)Xaov01-14-06, 01:08 AMOOC: Knight due to the fact I am in a corridor am I afflicted by just the -2 or am I running?So as not to leave this thread with no movement whatsoever. I will take the following action.Alright I will asume that at the moment I am running in terror, I will, well run in terror.SlagMortar01-16-06, 10:04 PMBeamer and Banion continue making their way into the Keep, trying to find Azaroth.Xaov01-24-06, 01:29 AM*shameless bump*Knight Otu01-24-06, 11:22 PM*shameful flumph*Yes, very. <img src="https://cdn.jsdelivr.net/joypixels/assets/8.0/png/unicode/64/1f631.png" class="smilie smilie--emoji" loading="lazy" width="64" height="64" alt=":o" title="Eek!    :o"  data-smilie="9"data-shortname=":o" />You rush away despite your best efforts to convince your body that the corridor is a dead end. Unconciously, you hear the dwarf's voice telling someone to get her staff, then footsteps following you. The half-drow's voice then calls out to you to surrender, and that you won't be harmed.You by now descend to the door you suspect Azaroth has used, as you hear a female voice from inside: "Surrender! No harm will come to you!" A closer voice, moving towards the main building, mutters something about "just stupid visions, but if they insist"Xaov01-25-06, 01:16 AMHey this game was going on nearly 10 days since an update........ I had to do something!Azaroth thinks to himself. Damn them!!!! If only I could've stopped that blasted Dwarf from casting that spell!!!! I might've had a chance! But I refuse to give up!SlagMortar01-25-06, 05:26 AMBeamer loads his crossbow and whispers to Banion, "Open the door."Xaov01-27-06, 10:25 PMhmm I hope Patlin hasn't left us as well.Azaroth will continue to run in fear.Knight Otu01-27-06, 10:35 PMAs you flee, you hear the two pursuers having a ...chat "I wonder if he is a genuine cultist of the terror beneath the keep, or if its visions simply drove him mad."Banion tries the door, but it hardly budges. It appears to have been barricaded already.SlagMortar01-27-06, 11:13 PM"Well now what? I don't have any skill with locks, nor the stength to smash through it." Beamer keeps a eye scanning the entire area, roof, door, behind, etc.OOC: I think Patlin's still with us. We haven't been doing anything independently.Patlin01-28-06, 12:57 AMOOC: I think Patlin's still with us. We haven't been doing anything independently.OOC: I'm still here! Banion's pretty much just following Beamer around at the moment, so I haven't chimed in much. Should have said Banion would do as directed recently, but I was having trouble deciding if he wanted to object or suggest something different, and I pondered a bit too long. Sorry if I caused any dismay."I don't like this at all." Banion mutters.Banion leans in to the Barricaded door, pressing his ear to the wood. Can he make out any more of what's being said? Listen: +7.Xaov01-28-06, 04:10 AMglad to see you are still with us patlin.Azaroth thinks to himself. The cult, a terror beneath the keep. Perhaps I can use this to my advantage.Knight Otu01-31-06, 11:01 PMThe sounds from inside are muffled. If there is any talk going on, it is too quiet or too far away to be heard. You do, however, hear footsteps.Running out of corridor, you turn to face the dwarf and the half-drow. At about the same time, the guard returns with a quarterstaff and rope, and a tall, hairy man. Blond, blue eyes, and a scar across the face.Xaov02-01-06, 01:30 AMHey knight. Just wondering is this now considered 3 or 4 rounds since the spell went off?Azaroth begins to think about his method of attack. Alright, I am in quite the situation here. I am now facing 4 guards instead of just 3, I cannot give up though!.... Azaroth continues to think he begins to realize this whole time he has been fighting with melee. They may not know I can cast spells..... This I could use to my advantage. I wonder...In the Event its been 4 rounds and the effect has faded:Azaroth shall stop running. Your little spell saved your life that time Dwarf but now its my turn! Intimidation Check: 1d20+7=14 (<a href="http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=353750" target="_blank">http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=353750</a>) Azaroth shall proceed to move to attack the Dwarf 1d20+2=11 (<a href="http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=353754" target="_blank">http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=353754</a>)In the event its only been 3 rounds and the effect continues:Azaroth will continue to run in fear.SlagMortar02-06-06, 07:30 PMBeamer tries to find a window to peak inside from.Knight Otu02-06-06, 08:10 PMNow to decide whether it is a good thing or a bad thing I waited on Beamer... <img src="http://www.enworld.org/forum/images/smilies/nervous.png"  class="smilie" loading="lazy" alt=":heh:" title="Nervous Laugh    :heh:" data-shortname=":heh:" />You rush the dwarf, but despite her being unarmored, your strike glances off. It would seem she cast a protective spell on herself. Her retaliation attack goess far off, but the man who joined recently does manage to strike you with his morningstar, making you feel a bit dizzy (9 points of subdual damage). The half-drow again misses. The fourth guard stands, a bit lost, behind.(I think you're at 15/16 hp and 9 subdual, right?)From your vantage point, you find no window that allows a look at where the action, if any, takes place.SlagMortar02-06-06, 08:16 PMSorry. I didn't realize you were waiting on me. I don't have much for ideas at the moment, other than get to level 12 really quick and disintegrate the wall. But I can't help but feel there is a fatal flaw in that plan.Xaov02-06-06, 09:15 PMCorrect Knight 16 hp 9 subdual. heh when I went to roll for my next intimidation/to hit I put it at 2 dice rolls and listed both dice rolls in one, so I got 4 results. I rerolled though.Azaroth turns his attention to the person hitting him with his morning star. Trying to be intimidating (and not doing so hot) (1st result) 1d20+7= 13 (<a href="http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=357349" target="_blank">http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=357349</a>) He attempts to hit the man with his scimitar (2nd result) 1d20+3= 7 (<a href="http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=357349)" target="_blank">http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=357349)</a>. Obviously the man's blow to Azaroth's head has staggered him a bit.Patlin02-07-06, 02:54 AMBanion, in frustration, suggests to Beamer that they are unlikely to get through, and that if Azaroth were yelling for help they'd probably be able to hear it from here. Barring a yell for help, Banion doesn't want to go bursting recklessly through the keep. He suggests that they should loot the fallen foes and retreat back to the rope, and hope that Gur and Azaroth do the same.SlagMortar02-07-06, 04:36 AM"You're probably right." Beamer climbs back up the wall with the help of the rope. He then casts prestidigitation and begins plucking the torches out of their sconces and putting them out, hoping to cast the courtyard into shadow so that Banion can retrieve the equipment of the fallen.OOC: Spells remaining: 0th: 5, 1st: 3.Knight Otu02-09-06, 11:32 PMYou wildly miss. The dwarven caster, however, strikes this time with her quarterstaff (7 subdual, total 16, exceeding his cuurent hit point by 1. Azaroth is unconcious). As you fall, you see the still sneering morningstar man, and then you hear a voice say "Bind and disarm him, Deleth." Then, there is darkness and silence.(Damn. If it weren't for that one damage the crossbowmen dealt earlier, you'd only be staggered.)With a quick prestidigitation, Beamer begins to douse the torches. I assume Banion will tie a rope to a convenient spot for climbing down?Xaov02-10-06, 02:32 AMooc: Heh damn...As Azaroth falls to the ground he thinks to himself. Blast if only I could've gotten one of them.....Patlin02-11-06, 07:34 PM"Beamer... got any more rope?"SlagMortar02-11-06, 08:45 PM"I think Gur had plenty."OOC: It was my understanding that we had several ropes acquired from the wagon they attacked. Beamer is not carrying any though due his *gulp* 6 strength.Knight Otu02-12-06, 07:58 PMAzaroth (and only Azaroth), this way please. (<a href="http://www.enworld.org/showthread.php?p=2918271#post2918271" target="_blank">http://www.enworld.org/showthread.php?p=2918271#post2918271</a>)Patlin02-13-06, 06:24 PMooc: Does that mean that those of us other than Azaroth can stop using spoiler blocks? Also, it is my understanding that Gur isn't with the two of us... please correct me if I am wrong. Otherwise:Banion grimaces in frustration."This is going sour. Let's retreat and see if we can regroup. Let's forget about any loot we might acquire, we're seperated and the longer we stick around the more likely it is we'll all get killed.""I hope the others got out allright."Knight Otu02-13-06, 06:34 PM(SBlocks are out. You may be relieved now. <img src="https://cdn.jsdelivr.net/joypixels/assets/8.0/png/unicode/64/1f609.png" class="smilie smilie--emoji" loading="lazy" width="64" height="64" alt=";)" title="Wink    ;)"  data-smilie="2"data-shortname=";)" /> Gur is with you. He kept the lookout while you were down at the door.)Patlin02-13-06, 06:44 PMExcellent! I thought he was lost to us as well. In that case, Banion isn't feeling nearly as skittish.Borrowing a rope from Gur, Banion secures it (taking 10) and shimmys down. As soon as he gets into the courtyard, he will hide and spend a few rounds looking around for any danger. If he finds none, he will sneak over to the downes foes and check them for signs of life. If they are alive, he won't do anything to change that condition, but will instead take them as captives... if Azaroth is still alive wherever he is, a prisoner exchange might be needed.Otherwise, if they are dead, Banion will methodically strip them of valuables. If something looks even potentially valuable, he'll take it, but his top priorities are coins, weapons, armor, and anything that looks like it might be magical or of masterwork quality.Giving another look about for signs of danger, he'll creep back to the rope. If the items he has taken are too heavy for him to carry, he will atttach them to the rope so Gur might pull them up. Otherwise, he'll climb back up the rope, climbing carefully (taking 10.)SlagMortar02-13-06, 07:06 PMAs Banion descends the rope, Beamer whispers, "Maybe sure to grab some crossbow bolts."Beamer then loads his crossbow and takes up a position where he can cover the entire courtyard, ready to shoot at any threats exposing themselves.Knight Otu02-14-06, 10:21 PMBanion lowers himself from the rope, seeing occasional movement behind the windows, but no one exposes him-or herself. Searching the downed enemies, he finds:The first enemy (the guard dropped in the first volley) is unconcious. His leather armor, shield and warhammer all seem to be of good quality.The two downed crossbowmen are also unconcious. Apart from their crossbows, they carry nothing of interest.Knight Otu02-17-06, 07:29 PMBanion takes his time tying the gathered items to the rope, and Gur pulls them up. So far, it doesn't seem as if anyone is going to act against the group.SlagMortar02-17-06, 07:57 PM"Good work, guys", says Beamer quietly while keeping his eyes on the movements behind the windows. "Should we regroup, or try another door? I fear the doors will all be blocked." If only I was not so weak.Knight Otu02-18-06, 07:22 PM(Patlin? Are you going to go ahead with taking a prisoner? And how do you want to do it? Tie him to the rope as well? Multiple ropes?)Patlin02-19-06, 01:04 AMBanion does what he can to ensure that the unconcious enemies are stable, hoping that he can move them without accidentally killing them.Banion will take the three over to the rope one at a time, starting with the one who formerly wielded the warhammer. Securing them to the rope in the same manner as the loot, he says softly "Carefull now!" and asks Gur to haul them up.Knight Otu02-21-06, 08:58 PMBanion makes sure that the guard is stable, and binds him to the rope, and Gur and Beamer start lifting him up. Since this time you are lifting a human body, weighing more and being more delicate, it will take longer to lift him. No reactions yet...Patlin02-22-06, 06:28 PMBanion will continue, hoping to accomplish his task without interferance. (Hoping to pass all three unconcious enemies up the wall.)Xaov02-23-06, 07:35 PMooc: I probably am not supposed to be in here. But Knight I have to ask do you intend to assign XP at any point in the near future? It could very well make a difference.Knight Otu02-23-06, 07:46 PM(My original thought was to give out the next chunk of XP after the adventure concluded, which I didn't consider to be too far away, and propably still isn't. Of course, there's been some delays and surprises...)Knight Otu02-23-06, 07:47 PM(And now shoo, shoo, get back into your own thread. <img src="https://cdn.jsdelivr.net/joypixels/assets/8.0/png/unicode/64/1f61b.png" class="smilie smilie--emoji" loading="lazy" width="64" height="64" alt=":p" title="Stick out tongue    :p"  data-smilie="7"data-shortname=":p" />)Xaov02-23-06, 08:06 PM*Xaov lumbers back to his dark corner*SlagMortar02-23-06, 08:44 PMOOC: Darn, I saw that Xaov had posted and was hoping Azaroth managed to escape.Back to watching for anyone trying to shoot them from inside the keep.Knight Otu02-23-06, 09:00 PMThe first hostage is about 3/4s up the wall as you hear rummaging behind the front door.SlagMortar02-24-06, 02:25 PMBeamer hisses, "Let's hurry. We'll have to leave the others."Knight Otu02-24-06, 10:34 PMGur manages to get the unconcious man up, and drops the other rope (with which you got onto the wall) down to Banion to climb up, and starts to lower the hostage down outside.Patlin02-28-06, 11:31 PM"Be ready, might be more coming. I'll get the other ones if I can."Banion goes to get the next unconcious oponent, manifesting a mindblade just in case.Knight Otu03-02-06, 10:58 PMThe main door opens once more, but this time, no one comes rushing out. Instead, three people remain in the main room, two crouched, crossbows trained outside, and another person standing behind them. One of the crossbow wielders is the guard who had been enlarged before, the other is a tall, hairy man with blond hair, blue eyes, and a scar across the face. The figure behind them looks like a elf or half-elf female with dark skin.Initiative, please.SlagMortar03-02-06, 11:33 PMinitiative (1d20+4=12) (<a href="http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=378616" target="_blank">http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=378616</a>)Beamer's eyes light up as he sees the blonde man. It's so nice when the person you are looking for is so easily described.OOC: Can Beamer tell if the formerly enlarged guard is still uninjured? AC 19 (15 Flat-footed)Knight Otu03-03-06, 09:50 PM(I should have said that - since the three figures are in the room, Banion is the only one seeing all three. Gur and Beamer can see the tall man.The formerly enlarged guard seems to have been healed a bit after the prior encounter. The tall man seems to have a few piercing wounds, maybe from arrows or bolts. The half-drow is unharmed.)Patlin03-03-06, 11:00 PMStooping to move the next unconcious opponent, Banion is in an awkward position and reacts more slowly than normal. Initiative=6 (<a href="http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=379543" target="_blank">http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=379543</a>)Knight Otu03-05-06, 08:39 PMGur, busy getting the hostage down outside, also isn't in a good position to react (Init 7). The two defenders begin to shoot at Banion, but miss. The half-drow raises her voice "Leave, or suffer the consequences!" then, with a prayer-like chant, casts a spell on herself.SlagMortar03-05-06, 09:56 PMBeamer sees they wish to talk and fight at the same time. He calls out, "Return us our companion and the Dance of Souls pieces and we will leave you and yours in peace." To give his words a some emphasis, he releases his crossbow at the only target he has.crossbow shot (1d20+6, 1d6=[6, 6], [2]) (<a href="http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=380782" target="_blank">http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=380782</a>)+1/+1 if they are within 30 feet.Bolts used: 8. Spells remaining: 0th: 5, 1st: 3Patlin03-06-06, 04:53 PMSeeing that negotiation might be possible, Banion will full Defend (His AC increases to 24, due to 5 ranks in tumble.) and move away from his assailaints, toward cover or around a corner from some of them if possible. He lets Beamer do the talking, concentrating on dodging incoming fire.Knight Otu03-06-06, 10:54 PMAs Banion backs away, he sees the half-drow nodding to someone out of sight, and then Beamer's shot comes through, missing its intended target."You have nothing to offer. Leave!" the half-drow intones again. You hear footsteps advancing just behind the main door, and the formerly enlarged guard looks out from that cover.SlagMortar03-07-06, 01:18 AM"All three of these fallen still live. They will continue to do so if you hand over our companion and the art work," Beamers says while relaoding his crossbow. Beamer leaves what will happen if not unspoken, but instead trains his crossbow on the nearest of the unconscious guards. Beamer readies to shoot the unconscious guard if there is hostile action.Patlin03-08-06, 01:03 PMBanion will continue full defending this round, to see if the enemy will take the opportunity to talk.Knight Otu03-08-06, 11:49 PM"You think you know what happens when you kill someone around here? You think you can learn alot about us this way? You have no idea what is really happening."Banion sees that the formerly enlarged guard was about to shoot, but stopped for some reason.SlagMortar03-09-06, 01:21 AM"We are not trying to learn about you, though I will listen if you wish to tell me. I'd rather not find out what happens when someone is killed. Give us the artwork and our companion and we'll be out of your hair." Beamer's crossbow stays leveled at the unconscious guard.Knight Otu03-09-06, 09:59 PM"You do not know? Did your loudmouthed leader do the killing? Go ahead, and see what happens!"Patlin03-09-06, 10:04 PMLeader? They think we're that organized? Banion wonders.If he's able to slip out of sight while Beamer negotiates, Banion will hide.SlagMortar03-09-06, 10:26 PMLeader? Well, that works for me. Then I can always play the dupe."No one has been killed 'around here'. I hope your companions see how lightly you regard their loyalty, Miss. Deleth, we just want the art and our companion returned. No one needs to get killed."Xaov03-10-06, 01:48 AMooc:curse you guys needing to be updated...... T_T*pets own thread in a Dr. Evil/Mr. Bigglesworth kind of way**then Lumbers back to his thread*Knight Otu03-10-06, 11:20 PM(Shoo, stay in your own thread! You'll have plenty of time to read this one after your flensing!)Knight Otu03-10-06, 11:56 PM"You know what to do." The half-drow states, apparently to her companions, and Deleth and the crossbow guard that escaped earlier appear in the gate, and start shooting at Beamer, along with the formerly enlarged guard.SlagMortar03-11-06, 06:43 PMOh well. Beamer immediately fires at the formerly enlarged guard and drops to his stomach.crossbow shot (1d20+6=20, 1d6=1) (<a href="http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=385162" target="_blank">http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=385162</a>)Bolts used: 9. Spells remaining: 0th: 5, 1st: 3AC 23 vs ranged attacks.Knight Otu03-12-06, 09:04 PMBeamer's shot hits TFEG (the formerly enlarged guard), scrathcing her.(Patlin goes here if he wants to act).The guards retaliate, but again hardly get close to hitting.Patlin03-14-06, 05:37 PMBanion, hidden nearby, throws his mindblade, though it leaves his hand with a slight wobble. (d20+8=12). (<a href="http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=387239" target="_blank">http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=387239</a>)ooc: If he was hidden succesfully, I believe the benefits of being invisible would apply: +2 to the shot, and the opponent loses dex bonus to AC.) Also, add 1 more if within 30'... so probably a 15? Damage would be 6 (<a href="http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=387241" target="_blank">http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=387241</a>) if within 30'.SlagMortar03-14-06, 06:46 PMBeamer reloads and fires again at the artist formerly known as enlarged guard.OOC: crossbow shot (1d20+6=14, 1d6=4) (<a href="http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=387295" target="_blank">http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=387295</a>)Is Gur shooting?Bolts used: 9, Spells remaining: 0th: 5, 1st: 3Knight Otu03-14-06, 08:24 PMBanion, hidden nearby, throws his mindblade,(That would have been nice to know beforehand. <img src="https://cdn.jsdelivr.net/joypixels/assets/8.0/png/unicode/64/1f61b.png" class="smilie smilie--emoji" loading="lazy" width="64" height="64" alt=":p" title="Stick out tongue    :p"  data-smilie="7"data-shortname=":p" /> I'd like to, for simplicity, put this into the current round (for which SlagMortar already posted), as the guards would have reacted to that. But if you want to get that shot in the round before, ok.)Patlin03-14-06, 09:20 PMWhich part would have been nice to know beforehand? I did mention the hiding:Leader? They think we're that organized? Banion wonders.If he's able to slip out of sight while Beamer negotiates, Banion will hide.Or maybe my post is just late? Guilty of that, I know, it's been busy around here! Anyway, once the shooting starts again Banion would jump in to help Beamer as soon as possible. However you want to adjudicate that is fine with me. I sort of figured my post would go into the "Patlin goes here if he wants to act slot" but I'm not terribly attached to that. <img src="https://cdn.jsdelivr.net/joypixels/assets/8.0/png/unicode/64/1f642.png" class="smilie smilie--emoji" loading="lazy" width="64" height="64" alt=":)" title="Smile    :)"  data-smilie="1"data-shortname=":)" />Knight Otu03-14-06, 09:25 PM(I meant the attack, with which you did open yourself to a counterattack. i didn't think it through fully when I posted that you'd be the nearest threat for them if you attacked.)Patlin03-14-06, 11:56 PMooc: OK, no worries. If it's easier, banion spent a round positioning to get cover.Knight Otu03-16-06, 10:17 PMNeither Beamer's nor Banion's attacks hit this time. Gur is still preoccupied with the prisoner, but is looking for a way to secure the rope so he can join into the battle.Deleth steps next to TFEG, and gives a sign to the third guard, whispering something"Bring'em in, Astrid", then TFEG and Deleth shoot at Banion. Both of their shots deflect off his cover, though. The third guard begins to draw in one of the unconcious guards now.SlagMortar03-16-06, 11:23 PMlisten check (1d20+1=3) (<a href="http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=389000" target="_blank">http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=389000</a>)Beamer has no idea what was said in the exchange.He continues his shots, despite the lack of success. He is tempted to try a shot at the unconscious guard to make sure their attack nets something, but decides it is better to take out those that threaten Banion. He fires an arrow toward TFEG.crossbow shot (1d20+6=12, 1d6=2) (<a href="http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=389005" target="_blank">http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=389005</a>)His muscles seem to have tightened up in the lull between the two combats. His earlier rythm has clearly been broken.OOC: Bolts used: 10, Spells remaining: 0th: 5, 1st: 3Patlin03-16-06, 11:34 PMBanion's next shot is more accurate, striking solidly. (Hits AC 18, 5 Damage.) (<a href="http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=389011" target="_blank">http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=389011</a>)Knight Otu03-17-06, 08:16 PMBeamer's bolt misses, but Banion hits TFEG. Gur begins binding up the two ropes in a way that hopefully doesn't hurt the prisoner or cut off Banion's flight route.TFEG and Deleth both miss Banion. The third guard has successfully dragged the first unconcious guard in.Patlin03-17-06, 08:39 PMAnother wobbly shot (<a href="http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=389617" target="_blank">http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=389617</a>) as Banion throws his mindblade and manifests another.SlagMortar03-17-06, 08:50 PMBeamer continues loading and firing as fast as he can. He considers speaking more, but he and Banion have not exactly overwhelmed them with incredible precision. He would not be speaking from a very strong position.crossbow shot (1d20+6=16, 1d6=2) (<a href="http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=389621" target="_blank">http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=389621</a>)Bolts used: 11, Spells remaining: 0th: 5, 1st: 3Knight Otu03-18-06, 07:59 PMYet another round ends with none of the attackers hitting, even Gur's arrows missing.TFEG's attack comes dangerously close to Banion, but he can dodge in time. Deleth's attack goes wide, however. The third guard begins dragging in the second unconcious guard.SlagMortar03-18-06, 08:26 PM"Damn!" Beamer glances about for a way to get a closer shot, but nothing seems like a good bet. Not for the first time, he wishes he possessed more powerful magic. He continues firing away.OOC: crossbow shot (1d20+6=14, 1d6=4) (<a href="http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=390345" target="_blank">http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=390345</a>)Bolts used: 12, Spells remaining: 0th: 5, 1st: 3Patlin03-21-06, 11:01 PMooc: Oops! I thought I was up to date on this, sorry if I kept you all waiting!Banion still seems off his game, but the next mindblade flies a bit truer (d20+9=15, possible 5 damage) (<a href="http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=393466)" target="_blank">http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=393466)</a>.Knight Otu03-21-06, 11:48 PMAgain, the assault of the group is mostly futile, but Gur manages a glancing shot against TFEG. The counter-assault again is very far from any actual living being.SlagMortar03-21-06, 11:51 PMcrossbow shot (1d20+6=12, 1d6=5) (<a href="http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=393497" target="_blank">http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=393497</a>)Wow, just wow. Hell hath no fury like Invisible Castle scorned.Bolts used: 13, Spells remaining: 0th: 5, 1st: 3Patlin03-22-06, 01:19 AMBanion's next blow is precise and razor sharp. D20+9=25 for 6 damage. (<a href="http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=393553" target="_blank">http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=393553</a>)Knight Otu03-22-06, 09:20 PMTFEG winces as Banion's mindblade pierces through her shoulder. The other shots seem to be directed at the stars above, as they fail to hit the defenders.TFEG's shoots another bolt, and this time manages to scratch Banion (1 point), then retreats back into the keep along with the third guard, who managed to drag in the second guard by now as well. Deleth misses, but does not make his way inside yet.SlagMortar03-22-06, 10:20 PMBeamer yells, "There's still one more. He's alive too you know."He then releases another shot, this time at Deleth.crossbow shot (1d20+6=21, 1d6=6) (<a href="http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=394362" target="_blank">http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=394362</a>)OOC: Bolts used: 14, Spells remaining: 0th: 5, 1st: 3Should have been shooting at him from the beginning. Banion succeeded in stripping the unconscious of their equipment before trying to grab the guards themselves, right?Patlin03-23-06, 05:20 PMBanion keeps up his barrage, piercing (d20+9=21) Deleth for 5 damage. (<a href="http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=394797" target="_blank">http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=394797</a>)Knight Otu03-23-06, 09:34 PMAfter the latest barrage (with both shots from Gur missing), Deleth also retreats into the keep, and the doors begin to close.Patlin03-23-06, 09:50 PMIf Banion can still see an enemy, he hurls a mindblade at it. Otherwise, he'll ready an action to hurl one at the first enemy he sees. If a round passes without any sign that the enemies will be back, he'll scurry back up top with Gur and Beamer.Patlin03-23-06, 09:56 PMooc: Double checked, and I had passed up all enemy equipment prior to trying to take prisoners. Right, KO?Knight Otu03-23-06, 09:57 PMNo defenders remain, and none come into view.Patlin03-23-06, 10:01 PMNo defenders remain, and none come into view.Upon rejoining the others, Banion asks "What now? We high-tailing it out of here, or do we want to continue to press on in hopes of recovering Azaroth and the art?"SlagMortar03-23-06, 10:31 PM"Hm. I don't know. I wish Azaroth hadn't gotten himself lost. I'm not injured and still have most of my spell energy. Are you two ok? If so, there may not be any use in waiting. We could possibly interrogate our prisoner."Beamer grabs enough crossbow bolts from the guard's equipment to refill back up to 30."I can move over to the roof and try to detect where the artwork is inside the keep. The roof may be too thick though. Any ideas how to get inside?"Patlin03-23-06, 10:57 PM"Don't let the architects fool you... Doors and even walls can only slow down a determined man, they can't stop one. If you want in, we can get in. I'm only slightly scratched, and I won't ever be much more ready than now... having to cart around a prisoner is our only real problem."SlagMortar03-24-06, 12:00 AM"Let's move over atop the keep. I'll use my detect magic spell to try to locate the works of art. I think it is best to press on for now. Let's leave the prisoner for now. He's should be out for awhile."OOC: Looking at the map from page 22 or so, it looks like they will have to move all the way around the wall to get over the top of the main part of the keep. All the exterior torches should be doused. Then Beamer will cast detect magic and maintain concentration while walking around the top of the keep trying to find any magical auras. He keeps Gur outside his cone so that the wand of cure light wounds does not show up. If he finds an aura, he will concentrate for two round to get the location. Note, I editted Beamer's character sheet to resupply his crossbow bolts.Patlin03-24-06, 05:03 PM"Can you find Azaroth through the same method?" Banion says, falling in behind Beamer. He looks about cautiously, trying to find a shadow to disapear into.SlagMortar03-24-06, 05:24 PM"The armor spell I cast on him should still be active. It may also pick up any spells active on that Talon cleric. The Dance of Souls should be much stronger than the spells of the cleric or myself so hopefully I will be able to tell the difference."Knight Otu03-25-06, 06:45 PM"I'm not sure if pressing on now is that good an idea. The way that woman... urged Beamer to kill one of the unconcious guards makes me think that something might happen that would be to their advantage." Gur says to the idea of pressing on, while retrieving the rope into the courtyard. As Banion and Beamer climb down onto the passage, then back up to the main keep's roof, he continues to rope down their prisoner safely.Beamer's detect magic fails to penetrate the roof. Either it is too thick, or whoever built the keep dug deep enough into his treasure chests to use lead in the roofing, as is sometimes done.Patlin03-25-06, 07:10 PM"How can we leave when Azaroth may still be alive in there somewhere?"SlagMortar03-25-06, 07:37 PM"Hmm. I'm not able to detect anything. The roof must be blocking it."On the topic of press on versus go back, Beamer nods and Banions comment. "They may be ... questioning Azaroth as we speak. What will they do with him when they are finished? Their fanaticism bothers be too, but that's all the more reason to get us all out of here sooner. If we rest, then they also get to rest and it seems they have more to gain. We need to press what little advantage we have. We hit Deleth pretty hard with that last volley. My protection spell still holds and I have a few tricks left. If there was an overwhelming force inside the keep, I think they would have attacked by now. They have seen we are only a few in number."OOC: Perhaps if we could force them to eat the alleged lead paneling in the roof. <img src="https://cdn.jsdelivr.net/joypixels/assets/8.0/png/unicode/64/1f642.png" class="smilie smilie--emoji" loading="lazy" width="64" height="64" alt=":)" title="Smile    :)"  data-smilie="1"data-shortname=":)" /> If Azaroth was still with us, I'd say we should rest to get his magic missles back, but since he is not I don't see what we have to gain from resting. Beamer's mage armor is still active so he is really only down one level 1 and two level 0 spells. Banion is injured 1 HP right? and Gur and Beamer are uninjured? If the Talon has a wand of cure light wounds, we'll be in even more trouble after resting. Right now we at least know they have taken some damage and used some spells.Bolts: 30, spells: 0th: 4, 1st: 3Btw, this is turning out to be a very exciting encounter. Well done KO!Patlin03-27-06, 07:34 PMOoc: Is Gur suggesting we should leave because you want to wrap this up, KO? If you need to conclude the adventure, that's OK, but things aren't anywhere near bad enough at this point for Banion to consider leaving without Azaroth. If we're all still good to keep playng...Banion will search about for a week spot in the roof. If there is a skylight, a wide chimney (without smoke coming out of it) or an area with really bad water damage Banion would like to make an entrance through an unexpected route.Knight Otu03-27-06, 07:45 PM(If I wanted to conclude this adventure prematurely, I'd say so. <img src="https://cdn.jsdelivr.net/joypixels/assets/8.0/png/unicode/64/1f61b.png" class="smilie smilie--emoji" loading="lazy" width="64" height="64" alt=":p" title="Stick out tongue    :p"  data-smilie="7"data-shortname=":p" /> He isn't suggesting to leave, but to regroup, interrogate the prisoner, and potentially rest up to recover.)"There is something unnatural about this keep. I don't like it. I'd prefer if we could get some information. But our prisoner might not know anything. We also shouldn't forget that search party that the inhabitants seem to await. But if you want to press on... what's the plan?"Banion cannot find any weak spots in the roof. In fact, in part it looks as if the mountain "welded" into the keep.Patlin03-27-06, 11:21 PMBanion looks dubiously at the well guarded keep."Maybe if we looked over the edge on the far side we could find some upper story windows to enter from? I'm not really sure about a plan... there don't seem to be that many of them in there, at least not yet... our best bet may be to attack, hopefully from an unexpected angle, and just fight our way through them till we get to Azaroth. If anyone has a better idea, that'd be great."SlagMortar03-28-06, 12:27 AM"Let's check out all the walls for the most vulnerable looking wall or window. Then we can decide how difficult it would be to breach. Be careful to avoid any shots from inside. We could try to knock a door in, but it would probably take all night and then some. If we can't find an easier entrance we may have to choice but to retreat and interrogate the prisoner."Patlin03-29-06, 04:19 AMBanion sets about implementing Beamer's suggestion.Knight Otu03-29-06, 11:12 PMIt would seem the keep was built to be sturdy. The weakest walls are in the passages between the wall and the main keep, where the doors are (and it would propably easier to batter in the doors). The weakest window seems to be right (west) of the gate, but it doesn't seem big enough to let anyone through without the wall being partially destroyed, as well.SlagMortar03-30-06, 01:30 AM"Well, we'll have to knock down a door, or back off and rethink our plan. I don't have any ability to knock down the door. What do you think Banion, Gur?"OOC: Our best bet might be for Gur or Banion to two hand the warhammer from the guard. That might take until morning though.Patlin03-30-06, 02:18 AM"Is there anything we can set on fire? Or do you know any magic that alters the structure of things... makes stones soft, or shrinks us so we can get through the little windows?"SlagMortar03-30-06, 02:24 AM"We could try to set a door on fire. I imagine the builders thought of that, however. My magic is useful for weakening people, not structures."Patlin03-30-06, 03:11 AM"Well, as much as I hate to admit it, I'm too small to be much of a hand with that hammer, and my specialty is more speed than strength. I doubt I could get through a door with any decent speed. Gur, do you think you can handle the demolition side of things?"Knight Otu03-30-06, 08:10 PM"Would be easier if it were a giant, rather than a door. Might take a while."(If my calculations are correct, it would take Gur about 1/2 a minute for a simple wooden door, a bit under a minute for a good wooden door, and a bit above a minute for a strong wooden door.)Knight Otu03-30-06, 08:12 PM(By the way, Patlin, have you looked at the recent proposals? The Craft points, your spell proposal, etc?)Patlin03-30-06, 09:43 PM"OK, Gur... giv it a shot!" Banion encourages. "Any preference as to which door, Beamer?"ooc: I'll give them a check. I've looked through some recently, but not in great depth, and I've avoided craft point related things generally as I don't feel comfortable with them generally.Patlin03-30-06, 10:09 PMooc: I've poked my head in on all proposals currently listed on the first page, and have given input where I feel comfortable doing so. If you need me to stretch that a bit because you need an additional judge's input, let me know. <img src="https://cdn.jsdelivr.net/joypixels/assets/8.0/png/unicode/64/1f642.png" class="smilie smilie--emoji" loading="lazy" width="64" height="64" alt=":)" title="Smile    :)"  data-smilie="1"data-shortname=":)" />SlagMortar03-31-06, 12:41 AM"I know, friend. Easier for all of us. Though hopefully the door won't hit back as hard. Let's try the northwest door to the passage way. Be ready. They will know we are coming."Before Gur starts striking the door, Beamer loads his crossbow.OOC: Well, that's certainly faster than I expected.Patlin03-31-06, 12:44 AMBanion will hide, ready to ambush any threat that presents itself with a thrown mindblade."If you can, take them alive."Knight Otu04-03-06, 10:59 PM"My advise as well", Gur mumbles as he starts to strike against the door, first hit leaving hardly a dent. You hear shuffling of feet inside the keep, though. The inhabitants are definitely alerted. Gur continues to batter against the door, and after a while, holes start appearing. (Initiatives please)Patlin04-03-06, 11:35 PMBanion, mindblade ready for a throw, isn't quite as quick off the mark as he might like. (d20+4=10) (<a href="http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=404388" target="_blank">http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=404388</a>)SlagMortar04-04-06, 04:07 AMInitiative (1d20+4=23) (<a href="http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=404520" target="_blank">http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=404520</a>)As the holes begin appearing, Beamer is ready to go.Patlin04-04-06, 05:23 PMWhen an enemy target appears, Banion will throw his mindblade. If the target appears seriously hurt, he will take a -4 penalty to deal subdual damage.1d20+9=17 for 6 damage (<a href="http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=404839" target="_blank">http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=404839</a>)An additional +2 will apply if Banion succeeds in remaining unseen until his throw, and under such a circumstance the enemy would also be flat footed.SlagMortar04-05-06, 03:29 PMBeamer fires his crossbow at the first target available.point blank crossbow shot (1d20+7=15, 1d6+1=3) (<a href="http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=405477" target="_blank">http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=405477</a>)Patlin04-05-06, 05:44 PMooc: Are we perhaps waiting for something to resolve in Azaroth's thread?Knight Otu04-05-06, 06:40 PM(As a matter of fact, it was my struggling with the Slaves of the Dragon map)Gur takes a less frontal stance, and with a last strike , he shatters the door, its remains and some debris with which it must have been barricaded fall out (Reflex save 10, or take 1d3 points of damage). Despite his readyness, Gur is still by a bit of debris (natural 1 on his save).Beamer - 23Gur - 13Banion - 10No enemies are apparent directly behind the door.Patlin04-05-06, 07:41 PMBanion will remain hidden and ready an action to throw his mindblade.Knight Otu04-07-06, 02:52 PMCoughing, Gur remarks that it looks like the defenders are staying behind the doors into this passage.SlagMortar04-07-06, 03:08 PMBeamer says, "Good work Gur."OOC: Is the interior lit up? Or do we need our own light source? What can we see in the passage?Knight Otu04-07-06, 03:15 PMThe interior is not lit up, though some light shines in from the two other doors. You can see the barricades on the other door, but nothing else.SlagMortar04-07-06, 03:25 PMBeamer slowly counts to ten in his head, one, two, ... , waiting for any enemies to show up. If no one appears by then, he takes a deep breath and whispers with a weak smile, "Who wants to go first?"Patlin04-07-06, 05:19 PMBanion signals quietly to Beamer, and gives him a wink. "Forgetting" to whisper, he calls out to his comrade, and tells him to throw a fireball just inside the entrance to clear it out.Untrained bluff check at -1.SlagMortar04-07-06, 05:56 PMBeamer's smile is only slightly marred by a small twist of bitterness. One day that will not be a bluff, friend. But I must work with what I have for now. "I can only cast two. Are you sure we want to waste one? Well, ok. Stand back."OOC: Bluff +8, or aid another if that is more applicable.Knight Otu04-07-06, 06:12 PMThere is no apparent reaction.(Patlin, did you decide whether you want to vote?)Patlin04-07-06, 07:58 PM"Looks like we'll have to spring their trap, if their is one... and I suspect there is." Banion whispers. "I'll do it. When I dash in, they'll probably all attack me at once. I'll jump in and out fast enough to be a difficult target and draw their attacks, then you two step in and counter attack. Ready?"When the others are ready (i.e. have delayed their actions so as to go immediately after Banion in the initiative order) Banion will full defend, move inside the doorway and immediately back out again.AC: Temporarilly 24HP: 20 of 21Spot: +5 -- Banion expects there to be people waiting in ambush with missile weapons, since it's what he would do, and hopes to spot them before they attack.Listen: +7SlagMortar04-07-06, 08:39 PMBeamer is ready to help. As soon as Banion pops out, he will step in behind Gur with his crossbow at the ready.Patlin04-11-06, 04:51 PMooc: Maybe all of the bad guys fell asleep? Quick! We can rescue Azaroth if we move quickly!Knight Otu04-11-06, 09:21 PM(I'm not sure if he wants to be saved - until recently, he had the company of two women with a total Charisma of 20. <img src="https://cdn.jsdelivr.net/joypixels/assets/8.0/png/unicode/64/1f609.png" class="smilie smilie--emoji" loading="lazy" width="64" height="64" alt=";)" title="Wink    ;)"  data-smilie="2"data-shortname=";)" />)Banion - 10TFEG, Guard #3 - 10 (readied)Beamer - 9 (delayed)Gur - 9 (delayed)Banion jumps in, and with a "NOW!", two enemies rush at him from behind the two doors (TFEG from the door into the main building, the third guard from the door into the wall, and try to strike Banion, but both miss.SlagMortar04-11-06, 09:36 PMIf possible, Beamer will take a shot without going inside the keep. If Banion continues his movement and Beamer has a clear shot (no cover or penalties for melee) at either guard then he will cast ray of enfeeblement.Since there are enemies on both sides of the door, Beamer will not enter until there is room to have Banion on one side and Gur on the other, or one of the enemies is gone.OOC: I don't want to see how long Beamer lasts in melee and he would just be taking up room that could be used better by Banion or Gur. If we bust in on Azaroth and he's wearing a smoking jacket with a cigar in one hand and a brandy snifter in the other, I'm instituting a new rule: Always follow Azaroth no matter what he is doing.Patlin04-11-06, 10:20 PMooc: I had anticipated missile fire, and so hadn't rolled a tumble for the second part of the movement. Here's the roll: 1d20+11=18 (<a href="http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=409968" target="_blank">http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=409968</a>)Knight Otu04-12-06, 10:13 PMBanion dodges out, weaving just into the right positions to avoid giving his two opponents any opportunity to attack. Beamer takes a shot (using the previously posted roll) at the third guard (it's time you guys learn their names <img src="https://cdn.jsdelivr.net/joypixels/assets/8.0/png/unicode/64/1f61b.png" class="smilie smilie--emoji" loading="lazy" width="64" height="64" alt=":p" title="Stick out tongue    :p"  data-smilie="7"data-shortname=":p" />), but the cover prevents a hit. Gur tries to hit her as well, but fails in the same way. <Banion>Patlin04-13-06, 12:11 AMBanion will hurl a minblade at whichever opponent he has the better shot at.1d20+9=24 for 6 damage (<a href="http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=410709" target="_blank">http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=410709</a>)He will then reform his mindblade as a move action.SlagMortar04-15-06, 10:28 PMIf the opponents step out of the Keep, Beamer casts a ray of enfeeblement. Otherwise, he will keep trying to shoot them with his crossbow.OOC: attack (1d20+7=20, 1d6+1=7) (<a href="http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=412486" target="_blank">http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=412486</a>) Good thing I'm consolidating dice. Can be used for either attack.Knight Otu04-16-06, 08:28 PMBanion's mindblade burrows into the third guard, and she crumbles to the ground, bleeding. "Damnit, Astrid," TFEG murmurs, rushes to her, and drags her to the door into the wall section. Another voice is heard there"Kaeri, you're supposed to guard the entrance! What happened?"Patlin04-16-06, 08:42 PMListen: 18 (<a href="http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=412998" target="_blank">http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=412998</a>)Banion moves forward boldly, up to 20'. He stops as soon as he sees a concious opponent and hurls a mindblade at him. 1d20+9=19 for 4 damage (<a href="http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=412989" target="_blank">http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=412989</a>)Knight Otu04-16-06, 09:01 PM(which direction?)Patlin04-16-06, 11:00 PM(Towards the one he hit with his last throw.)Knight Otu04-16-06, 11:19 PMBanion carefully moves towards the door into the wall section, which is now leaned close again. From his vantage point, it seems someone stands to the open side (the south), waiting to strike. From what he sees of the figure, it must be "Kaeri."Patlin04-17-06, 01:36 PMCan Banion get a shot off while he and Kaeri have cover relative to each other, as opposed to going through the door and just taking the hit? If so, that's what he will do. Otherwise, he'll wait until Gur is in position and in the meantime ready an action to throw upon seeing a target.Knight Otu04-17-06, 05:34 PM(It is effectively 9/10th (improved) cover, granting a +8 to AC. Hitting would seem pretty unlikely)Gur, motioned by Banion, also enters the short passage.Patlin04-17-06, 06:07 PMNodding to Gur, Banion will dash in (full defending) to trigger the readied attack, AC 24 for this round.If there is room to move around Kaeri, Banion will do so. He's not willing to try and tumble through her square unless he absolutely has to, but he does want there to be room for Gur to rush in behind him. He fails his tumble check (<a href="http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=414574" target="_blank">http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=414574</a>) and provokes an AOO from Kaeri.While he is in position (hopefully) to flank, he is not currently threatening any squares, and so will not provide any immediate benefit to Gur.Knight Otu04-17-06, 08:36 PMBanion dodges through the door into the long corridor, briefly noting that the far northern portion seems to be collapsed, dodging the attacks of "Kaeri" and her companion, one of the guards you knocked out earlier. Astrid lies a bit behind that guard. Gur follows, and strikes Kaeri with the hammer. <Beamer>SlagMortar04-17-06, 09:44 PMBeamer pumps a small fist as Banion's shot fells one opponent. He follows Gur into the cooridor and looks for an opponent to shoot. He moves toward the west side of the corridor, and tries to get a clear (opponent does not have cover). If he won't be able to get a clear shot, he watches the any doors on his side of the fight (readied action to shoot any opponent coming through the doors).Listen (1d20+1=2) (<a href="http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=415024" target="_blank">http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=415024</a>)Beamer's blood pumps strongly in his ears. He is unable to hear much of anything from inside the keep.OOC: If the above description lacks clarity, basically Beamer will try to stay close to Banion and Gur while keeping Banion and Gur between himself and the interior of the keep proper. While he is back there, he will try to get a shot without cover at any opponents and if unable will cover any doors he can see with his crossbow. If there is melee going on on both sides, Beamer will try to stay out of the way and try to get room to use his crossbow.Patlin04-17-06, 10:52 PMIf on Banion's next turn the bandits are still engaged by both Banion and Gur, Banion will try a melee slice, taking advantage of the flanking. On the other hand, if either has disengaged Banion will take a 5' step to get out of any threatened areas and throw his mindblade, generating a new one immediately.Melee, Flanking: 1d20+6 for 1d4+1Throwing with PBS: 1d20+9 for 1d4+2Knight Otu04-18-06, 09:16 PMBeamer does not get a clear shot, as the wall and Gur are between him and any potential target, so he instead readies himself should an opponent come into clear sight.The guard makes a short step before striking at Gur again, but he misses. Beamer's preparations turn out to be fortunate, as Deleth now storms into the short corridor, but he still misses the charging man. Deleth manages to bring his morningstar to bear, however, dealing 6 points of damage. From the main keep, he hears steps - it seems two more people will join soon.Banion easily manages to stab Kaeri (natural 20, but crit not confirmed), and along with the hammer hit, she seems heavily wounded now. So much, in fact, that she misses Gur in her retaliation. However, Gur doesn't manage to hit her again as well.SlagMortar04-18-06, 10:51 PMOOC: Beamer was hit for 6 damage, correct?If Beamer can step away from Deleth and out of threatened areas, he casts Ray of Enfeeblement on Deleth. If he cannot step away, he will full defend: AC = 23.ray of enfeeblement (1d20+7=24, 1d6+1=6) (<a href="http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=416345" target="_blank">http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=416345</a>)Patlin04-18-06, 11:44 PMBanion stabs Kaeri again 1d20+6=25 (threat) (<a href="http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=416439" target="_blank">http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=416439</a>) (confirmation 1d20+6=17) for 5 or 9 damage depending on whether or not the critical is confirmed. (<a href="http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=416443" target="_blank">http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=416443</a>)I understand the other enemy has stepped away from Banion? If Kaeri drops, he will use his move action to take cover if any is convenient, or at least to put an obstacle between himself and the sound of new enemies aproaching so as to prevent a charge.Knight Otu04-20-06, 09:10 PMKaeri gasps as Banion's blade pierces her back, and crumples to the floor, bleeding strongly. Since he is in the long corridor, and the new arrivals will come from the main keep into the short corridor, charges are not possible.Gur strikes at the other guard, and a crushing sound proves that he hit. Beamer, beset by Deleth, enters full defense. Deleth strikes again, but doesn't hit this time. The guard that fights against Gur, however, cuts an ugly wound into Gur.From the main keep, the half-drow and a female dwarf enter.Patlin04-20-06, 09:34 PMBanion throws his mindblade at Gur's oponent, then forms a new one. The throw goes completely wild (<a href="http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=419279" target="_blank">http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=419279</a>) taking a chip out of the ceiling.SlagMortar04-21-06, 12:59 AMBeamer continues to dodge and weave. At least while he is in the way, Gur can not be flanked. Is the corridor only 5 feet wide?Knight Otu04-23-06, 12:09 AM(both corridors are 10 feet wide)As Banion redecorates the ceiling, Gur drops the last guard in the long corridor, then moves to Beamer's side. Deleth, thinking him an easier target, strikes at him now, but his morningstar only bites into the leather armor. The dwarven woman mumbles some arcane words, and suddenly, beamer is overcome with panic (Will save result 8, frightened (<a href="http://srd.pbemnexus.com/abilitiesAndConditions.html#frightened" target="_blank">http://srd.pbemnexus.com/abilitiesAndConditions.html#frightened</a>) for 1 round). The half-drow recites something that sounds like a prayer, presenting a spiderlike symbol, and suddenly the hammer Gur has wielded breaks into tiny shards at the same time as a piercing sound is heard.SlagMortar04-23-06, 12:47 AMBeamer breathes a sigh of relief as Deleth's morning star quits whizzing passed his head, but it is short lived as panic overcomes him. With a scream, Beamer flees next round (probably back outside the keep?).Knight Otu04-23-06, 09:40 PM(Into the wall corridor would presumably be the better option. From how I remember your position, fleeing outside would provoke an AoO from Deleth, even with the Withdraw action.)SlagMortar04-23-06, 09:54 PMOOC: Either way, I think it's up to you. I'm not very clear on everyone's positions. Just let me know where he ends up, which will hopefully not be slumped in a heap on the floor bleeding out.Knight Otu04-23-06, 10:02 PM(Awww, why not? <img src="https://cdn.jsdelivr.net/joypixels/assets/8.0/png/unicode/64/1f641.png" class="smilie smilie--emoji" loading="lazy" width="64" height="64" alt=":(" title="Frown    :("  data-smilie="3"data-shortname=":(" /> <img src="https://cdn.jsdelivr.net/joypixels/assets/8.0/png/unicode/64/1f61b.png" class="smilie smilie--emoji" loading="lazy" width="64" height="64" alt=":p" title="Stick out tongue    :p"  data-smilie="7"data-shortname=":p" /> I'm waiting on Banion's move.)Patlin04-24-06, 12:39 AMBanion's aim is still off. (<a href="http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=423728" target="_blank">http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=423728</a>) He's having trouble targeting Deleth as she and Gur exchange blows. If he didn't have to take a move action to get into position to make his throw, he'll form a new mindblade.Knight Otu04-24-06, 10:21 PM(I am somewhat disconcerted that one of my NPCs managed to get a sex change without me noticing. <img src="http://www.enworld.org/forum/images/smilies/paranoid.png"  class="smilie" loading="lazy" alt=":uhoh:" title="Paranoid    :uhoh:" data-shortname=":uhoh:" /> )Banion's mindblade seems to have a mind of its own as it continues to make small dents into the ceiling (Banion had to move a bit this turn). Beamer screams, withdraws from Deleth, and runs southward the long corridor for about 30 feet. Gur, deprived of his current weapon, also withdraws to ready his quarterstaff. Deleth approaches Banion, and his morningstar comes crashing down easily, causing Banion to see even more (morning)stars (9 damage). The dwarf and the half-drow again vanish into the main keep, closing the door behind them.Patlin04-24-06, 10:48 PM(I am somewhat disconcerted that one of my NPCs managed to get a sex change without me noticing. <img src="http://www.enworld.org/forum/images/smilies/paranoid.png"  class="smilie" loading="lazy" alt=":uhoh:" title="Paranoid    :uhoh:" data-shortname=":uhoh:" /> )ooc: I take it Deleth is a male, then? Sorry, must be too much babylon five. I barely resisted changing the name to "Delen." (Spelling?)Banion will step 5' away, manifest a midblade, and throw it at Deleth.1d20+9=24 for 5 damage. (<a href="http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=425355" target="_blank">http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=425355</a>)Now at 11 of 21 hp, IIRC (=if I recall correctly.) Oh, the fragility of second level!SlagMortar04-25-06, 12:26 AMBeamer casts ray of enfeeblement at Deleth, and reloads his crossbow.OOC: I believe since Banion steps back, Beamer does not have to worry about firing into melee. If that's not the case, Beamer will wait until Banion does step back.ray of enfeeblement (1d20+7=22, 1d6+1=6) (<a href="http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=425454)" target="_blank">http://invisiblecastle.com/find.py?id=425454)</a>. Actually, it probably wouldn't matter anyway unless Deleth has 19 touch AC.Spells remaining: 0th: 4, 1st: 2Patlin04-25-06, 06:26 PMOOC: I believe since Banion steps back, Beamer does not have to worry about firing into melee.ooc: Banion is throwing with the same assumption.Knight Otu04-25-06, 11:21 PMWith combined forces, Beamer, Banion and Gur (who retrieved his quarterstaff) finally manage to drop Deleth as well.The Keep is silent. As if... waiting.Patlin04-25-06, 11:27 PM"Let's see if we can make sure they stay breathing... oh, and Gur, could I get a shot or two from that healing wand?"Banion will try to stabilize the wounded opponents.Knight Otu04-25-06, 11:35 PM"Wand? Oh, yeah, that thing." He speaks the command word, and Banion's wounds close (9 damage healed). He repeats the same with Beamer (8 damage healed), then helps binding the wounds of their enemies who need such, wirh great success.SlagMortar04-26-06, 12:17 AMBeamer wipes sweat from his brow. "Thanks, Gur. I think I just about bit it there." Beamer counts up the bodies, noting that at least the wizard and the half-drow cleric remain inside. He keeps an eye on the doors while Gur and Banion see to stabalizing the enemies. "What now? Should we check out that door before trying to get into the main keep?"Knight Otu04-26-06, 12:28 AM(You guys are or were behind the second door - it is the one into the wall section - Banion tumbled in to fight against Kaeri, Beamer fled into it after the fear spell, and Gur after the hammer was destroyed. The northern portion appears collapsed, but the way to the south is clear.)Patlin04-26-06, 03:17 AMBanion will systematically deprive the fallen opponents of all usefull items they may have, making sure not to leave them with anything resembling a weapon.Knight Otu04-26-06, 07:54 PMBanion and Beamer quickly dis-equip their opponents, while Gur scouts towards the south. After he returns, he says "The corridor is a dead end. Seems it covers the wall section entirely up to the gate."Patlin04-26-06, 08:03 PM"Maybe we should get our prisoners out of here... now that we have more of them, they might be willing to trade for Azaroth. What do you think, Beamer? Gur?"Knight Otu04-26-06, 08:19 PM"I don't know, it seemed like this was pretty much the last they had to send against us. Besides you wanted to press on."Patlin04-26-06, 08:22 PM"Allright, then, let's press on. If this is a dead end, looks like we'll have to go out and follow the ones who retreated through that other door. You might need to bash it open, too. I'll head out first, in case they're lying in wait."Banion will again do his full-defend and dive through the door trick. It's becoming his specialty. <img src="https://cdn.jsdelivr.net/joypixels/assets/8.0/png/unicode/64/1f642.png" class="smilie smilie--emoji" loading="lazy" width="64" height="64" alt=":)" title="Smile    :)"  data-smilie="1"data-shortname=":)" />SlagMortar04-26-06, 09:43 PM"Yeah, lets go on. I used one of my spells, but so did the wizard and the cleric. There can't be too many more. I hope."Knight Otu04-26-06, 09:54 PMBanion finds the door into the main keep closed, but not locked or barred. He jumps in, and finds himself in a t-shaped room. To the right, the main gate. Ahead, a door like the one he just jumped through, presumably leading into the other wall section. To the left, a walls and in the middle a corridor north. Two doors in lead into other rooms, and a staircase leads up. No enemies are apparent.(since I'm too lazy to look for the actual map: )-------| | | || + + || | | |--- -----+++--Patlin04-26-06, 10:02 PM"We should use a search pattern." He says quietly. "The left hand rule, perhaps?"Banion opens the door to his left.Knight Otu04-26-06, 10:06 PM"We should use a search pattern." He says quietly. "The left hand rule, perhaps?"Banion opens the door to his left.It appears that the room is a sleeping room, with five beds. Ropes along each bed show that the Talon must have the same nightly problems as everyone else. Again, no enemies are visible.Patlin04-26-06, 10:12 PMContinuing in the search pattern, Banion loops around to the left. As there appear to be no other exits from this room, that leaves him turning left as he exits the room... and heading to the north. Was that a corridor?Knight Otu04-26-06, 10:16 PM(You're in the corridor (again after leaving the room). Next in your search pattern would be the staircase. If you want to skip that, you'd get to a door (the + in the map above), then to the door into the eastern wall section, then to the barricaded main gate)Patlin04-26-06, 10:20 PMNo need to skip! Up the stairs it is!Knight Otu04-26-06, 10:26 PM(Does that go for the whole group?)SlagMortar04-26-06, 10:54 PMBeamer says quietly, "Since you are so good at remaining unseen why don't you stay just a bit ahead." Beamer will allow Banion a 10-15 foot head start, which for the stair case means Banion can head up first.Knight Otu04-26-06, 10:59 PM(The great wyrm in the right rooms sighs with relief that the group goes upstairs, leaving small portions of the lower keep unexplored <img src="https://cdn.jsdelivr.net/joypixels/assets/8.0/png/unicode/64/1f609.png" class="smilie smilie--emoji" loading="lazy" width="64" height="64" alt=";)" title="Wink    ;)"  data-smilie="2"data-shortname=";)" />)The group goes upstair, and ends up in a small corridor with four doors, two on each side.Patlin04-26-06, 11:29 PMBanion will follow Beamer's advice, and be as sneaky as he can. He listens at the door to the left, and unless he hears something he opens it.Knight Otu04-26-06, 11:35 PMAfter listening, Banion opens the door. Apparently, this is an office. A desk with papers on them stands at one wall, and a shelf with more papers at the other. At the third wall stands a bed, without ropes.Patlin04-26-06, 11:38 PMWe take all of the papers and search about quickly for anything else of interest, particularly artwork. Assuming we find nothing, we continue on.Knight Otu04-27-06, 08:40 PMScanning through the papers turns out much more fruitful than expected, but exactly what fruits are found tends to be unclear.Many papers seem to refer to places and people, but those are codes as letter and number combinations ("Agent B43AT reports that T50AM3's reign over X53 may come to an end due to the flight of a child.").Research notes speak of some kind of terror imprisoned deep beneath the keep, and that the presence of intelligent beings soothes it.A few maps of the keep show the current state and plans on how to expand/improve it, especially the collapsed sections (of note is the staircase you went up in - the maps show a staircase down as well).You find passing references to something called an "Ashen Oracle." Apparently, there is a third piece of the Dance of Souls in a tower in these mountains.Finally, you find a detailed map of the mountains, divided with a fine grid. The keep itself is marked, and a good number of grids is marked with a !. Roughly a third of the map, radiating out from the keep, is marked with an x. Where an x and a ! are in the same grid, the ! has been striked out.No actual artwork is found, though.SlagMortar04-27-06, 09:11 PMbut those are codes as letter and number combinations"Hmm, coded."the presence of intelligent beings soothes it"Do you think that's where Azaroth might be? Soothing the terror? Maybe we should take that staircase down after we finish searching the rooms up here," says Beamer, his eyes widening.Knight Otu04-27-06, 09:23 PMYou clearly remember that there was no staircase leading down, despite what it says on the map.Looking closer through the research notes regarding the terror, it seems that it is what is responsible for the "Bloodstained Dreams." Feeding off the sanity of intelligent beings soothes it, but the often inevitable killing causes it to stir. It seems the goal of the terror is to wake, becoming more and more powerful the more awake it is. To this end, it sends out its dreams, and rewards killing with information. The Ashen Talon's goal seems to be to keep the terror slumbering.SlagMortar04-27-06, 09:30 PMBeamer is assuming that the staircase is hidden in a trap door or some such."Well maybe they aren't all bad if they are trying to keep this thing asleep. Maybe we should finish searching the rest of the keep first and if we still don't find Azaroth then try to find that staircase."Patlin04-27-06, 09:43 PM"If they are keeping it imprisoned and asleep in order to make use of it, that's bad. It sounds like some sort of demon, and if we get a chance we should try to banish it from this world. I doubt we have the power to do that, though. Getting Azaroth, getting out of here, and maybe even accomplishing our mission, that's what we need to concentrate on."ooc: Knight Otu, are you perhaps a Neil Gaiman fan? This sounds a bit like the folks who imprisoned Dream when tying to capture his sister...Patlin04-27-06, 09:45 PM"Maybe we should finish searching the rest of the keep first and if we still don't find Azaroth then try to find that staircase.""Agreed. Let's move."Banion takes the lead and continues the search.Knight Otu04-28-06, 05:21 PMTurning to the next door, the group finds a well-stocked supply room, with food, water and other beverages, spices and the like. In the corner is a door into a smaller room. Banion tries it...... and finds it locked.(To answer the obvious question, you didn't find anything remotely resembling a key on any of the enemies you knocked out)(I don't think I've read anything from him, but have heard about him.)Patlin04-28-06, 06:18 PMBanion signals for the others to come closer."Open it up, Gur. I'll watch your back."Banion hides, ready to ambush anyone who tries to interrupt the ranger as he bashes open the locked door.Knight Otu04-28-06, 06:27 PMGur seeks a position in which he can bring his quarterstaff to bear, and begins hammering against the door.Knight Otu04-28-06, 06:50 PMAnd after several *whomp*s, the door crashes open. Inside, the group finds a pedestal, and a shelf. On the pedestal lies a silver disk, on which sits a brass humanoid, seemingly saddened. On the shelf lies a frame, with a, on first glance, blank grey canvas. Only a second glance reveals movement in the canvas, like a cloud that is shifting, sometimes revealing what seems to be a night-time scene.SlagMortar04-28-06, 06:58 PMBeamer takes up a position where he can fire down the hallway at any attackers coming up from downstairs. "It might be easier with that morningstar."Knight Otu04-28-06, 07:10 PM"Might have been good advise if it had come earlier. Well, I think that's the junk we're here for."No attackers are coming.SlagMortar04-28-06, 08:25 PM"Yeah, I guess so. Hey! Looks like we found what we are looking for. Now we just need to get Azaroth. Woah, these are pretty amazing!"Patlin04-28-06, 09:27 PM"Let's keep moving then, I want to find Azaroth and get out of this creepy place. Well, that and banish the demon or whatever it is, if that's even possible. Gur, will you carry the art?"Banion slips into the shadows and resumes his search.Knight Otu04-29-06, 07:30 PM"The painting is a bit unwieldly, but I'll deal, as long as we don't need to fight."The group goes into the next room, opposite to the one they just left, and find what appears to be an armory. There are no weapons or armor of note here anymore, though, but anyone inclined to do so can replenish arrows and bolts.Like in the other room, there is a door into a smaller room. Banion tries to open it...And looks at Azaroth, who shows clear signs of torture. Beaten, and cut across face and hands. His hands are bound behind his back, and his feet are bound together as well. He blinks as the door opens, as if to make sure that he really sees you, then asks "What took you so long?"(Xaov notified me that he's not around for a few days)Patlin04-29-06, 08:50 PMooc: Time is pretty slippery in play by post... how long ago did we last see Azaroth? 30 minutes ago? Two hours?"You don't look so good, friend, we better get you out of here! I'll cut you loose... Gur, can you heal him with the wand?"Banion's mind blade should make quick work of the ropes or cords.Knight Otu04-29-06, 09:03 PM(Several posts, at least. <img src="https://cdn.jsdelivr.net/joypixels/assets/8.0/png/unicode/64/1f61b.png" class="smilie smilie--emoji" loading="lazy" width="64" height="64" alt=":p" title="Stick out tongue    :p"  data-smilie="7"data-shortname=":p" /> )Banion cuts Azaroth loose, and Gur uses two charges from the wand to heal Azaroth completely. "Thank you. Did you get Deleth and that dwarf?"Patlin04-29-06, 09:12 PM"I think one of the ones we got was called Deleth." Banion confirms. "Beamer sad he was sure at least two got away. What was it, Beamer, a Wizard and a Half-Drow Cleric?"SlagMortar04-29-06, 10:15 PM"We got Deleth. The dwarven wizard and half-drow cleric got away. I'm glad you're ok! And we found the Dance of Souls pieces! Let's get Deleth and get out of here. Our employers will have to settle for him."OOC: Did Beamer or the others recognize Turlach? I don't remember reading anyone matching his description.Patlin04-30-06, 12:41 AM"Are we going to take the prisoners with us back to civilization, or just leave them here figuring they'll get themselves untied eventually?"SlagMortar04-30-06, 12:46 AM"Well we should take Deleth (and Turlach if we identified him) at least. I don't know that I want to try to transport all the rest back. Of course I'm also not excited about leaving them here to seek revenge. Do you think we can take them all back?"Knight Otu04-30-06, 01:04 AM(You did not see Turlach anywhere.)"Personally, I have a score to settle with the drow and the dwarf. You said you didn't get them?" Azaroth's eyes darken as he says that.Patlin04-30-06, 02:39 AM"No acts of violence on prisoners. I'm sure we could haul them back to civilization, but it won't be easy. I'm also not sure we have anything on them that would hold up in a court, either. What do we charge them with, resisting our assault on their keep?""Also, if their efforts are somehow keeping the demon here from getting out and going on a rampage, maybe we should leave them to continue... at least until we figure out how to get rid of it once and for all."SlagMortar04-30-06, 03:26 AM"No acts of violence on prisoners."I wasn't suggesting anything of the kind."What do we charge them with, resisting our assault on their keep?"Well, they were protecting known criminals. If whatever charges against Deleth hold up, the others were clearly co-conspirators. But still, it may be best just to leave them. Azaroth, I really think we should go. The notes we found indicate this Talon is very organized and has extensive knowledge of the mountains. They could be anywhere, and the search party is supposed to be returning soon. They mentioned a third piece of the Dance of Souls. Maybe we can get our employers, or someone else, to finance an expedition to find this other piece, and get a larger group together to go after it and the escaping Talon members."Patlin04-30-06, 03:07 PM"Personally, I have a score to settle with the drow and the dwarf.""I wasn't suggesting anything of the kind."ooc: It wasn't Beamer I was concerned about... Banion wants to make sure Azaroth understands his position on attacking helpless prisoners up front, so that there are no misunderstandings later.Knight Otu04-30-06, 04:36 PM"So, what's the plan, anyway? Leave, or continue to search?"Patlin04-30-06, 05:10 PMBanion pauses, uncertain."Let's get out of here while we can. This would be a lousy time for their search party to return..."SlagMortar04-30-06, 06:25 PM"I agree."Knight Otu04-30-06, 06:30 PM"We haven't checked that one room up here... oh, it's locked anyway, and one downstairs yet. And the eastern wall section. Shouldn't take all too long." Gur says."I want to catch those two spellcasters. I don't think they're behind that closed door though." Azaroth replies.(If you go downstairs, do you want to search for that additional staircase shown on the maps?)Patlin04-30-06, 08:25 PMBanion will reluctantly accompany Gur as the ranger satisfies his curiousity."Let's not take too long, though. I'd rather not have to fight my way out of here, and now that all of our primary objectives have been accomplished the risk of staying seems likely to outweigh the reward."We will search as we go, but we won't take 20 or otherwise use time wastefully.SlagMortar04-30-06, 08:43 PM"Well, I'm tired and ready to get away from this Keep and its dreams. But while we're here, I guess we can search the rest. If I was the two that fled, I wouldn't have stuck around, but maybe they are hiding out in the other wing. Let's finish the search quick and get out of here."Knight Otu05-01-06, 05:36 PM(I'm reading that as - you'll search the rest of the keep that is accessible, but won't try to bash open locked doors, like the fourth up here. Correct?)Leaving the locked door behind, the group again descends down the stairway. As they reach the bottom, and turn to quickly search for the stairs the map say exist, they spy a change in the lower level room - a length of rope lies near the main gate, and in the air, another bit of rope hangs, seemingly in nothingness.You are looking at a rope trick, it would appear.Patlin05-01-06, 06:22 PMooc: Banion has no spellcraft, but Patlin can recognize one of his favorite spells when he sees it... <img src="https://cdn.jsdelivr.net/joypixels/assets/8.0/png/unicode/64/1f642.png" class="smilie smilie--emoji" loading="lazy" width="64" height="64" alt=":)" title="Smile    :)"  data-smilie="1"data-shortname=":)" /> Hopefully one of the mages will fill Banion in.SlagMortar05-01-06, 07:08 PM"Hmm, that's strange."OOC: Beamer doesn't have spellcraft either, unfortunately. I was RPing that he had started reading about magic after he started casting spells so he has some Knowledge (arcana), but as yet has pretty limited exposure to any spells other than his own.Knight Otu05-01-06, 07:13 PM(Azaroth to the rescue!)"Seems like they hid with the help of a spell called rope trick, which grants access to an extraplanar space. The rope that allows someone to climb in can be hidden in that space, too."Patlin05-01-06, 07:48 PM"They could have hidden the rope, too? Then why didn't they? And is there any way to force them out?"Banion is perplexed.(And since we don't have access to dispell magic at level 2, it would seem we are stuck.)Knight Otu05-01-06, 07:53 PM"That's assuming they're still inside, though. Only reason they might have is that the space is limited, allowing for eight people."Patlin05-01-06, 07:55 PM"...unless they hid in their until we were out of sight, then let the rope down to leave... in which case we're probably about to hit an ambush."Banion disapears into the shadows, though it's likely allready too late.SlagMortar05-01-06, 08:02 PM"It would seem so. We might as well continue on. Just be careful." He adds quietly, "Let's try the other wing. Perhaps they would expect us to leave the same way we came in once we had what we were looking for."Knight Otu05-01-06, 08:50 PMYou move towards the eastern door, keeping your eyes out for an ambush. Opening the door into the corridor to the east wall, you see that it is practically a mirror of the other corridor, the two doors to the outside barricaded.SlagMortar05-01-06, 11:02 PM"Oh, this would be barricaded. Is there any way to tell whether they are still in there? What would happen if we climbed the rope. Or should we just grab Deleth and get out of here?"Patlin05-01-06, 11:11 PM"I don't know, even if it worked climbing the rope could be a bad idea. What if they let one of us in and then closed it somehow? Could get nasty. Let's do a quick look around, then if they haven't decided to attack us we can get out of here."Knight Otu05-01-06, 11:14 PM(Which way do you want do go? Into the wall section?)Patlin05-01-06, 11:52 PMooc: Left hand rule still sounds good to me.Knight Otu05-02-06, 12:03 AMThe party enters the wall section. Much like in the western wall section, the northern part appears collapsed. Following the corridor southwards, you find that it, too leads into a dead end.SlagMortar05-02-06, 12:09 AM"Alright. Let's get Deleth and then get out of here. Be wary for an ambush."Patlin05-02-06, 02:09 AM"Alright. Let's get Deleth and then get out of here. Be wary for an ambush."Banion nods, and heads for the last location he saw Deleth, moving stealthfully.Knight Otu05-02-06, 06:48 PMCarefully, you return to the western passage, and open the door. Where Deleth should lie, instead a small flask is lying, but the blood Deleth and the other guards have lost is still visible.Patlin05-02-06, 06:57 PM"That'll be a now empty flask from a healing potion. That's enough of that, we're getting out of here now. Keep an eye out, they might try an attack even though they're missing most of their equipment."Banion leads the group out of the keep, making the best time they can manage journeying out of the keep's sphere of influence.Knight Otu05-02-06, 07:07 PMBanion leads the group to the rope they climbed down from, but finds that it has been cut. The group could still try to climb (the northern courtyards are rather easy climbs), or open and leave through the outer gate.Patlin05-02-06, 07:12 PMBanion leads on towards the Northern Courtyards.Knight Otu05-02-06, 07:20 PMThe group begins its climb up, and after a short time, everyone is on the wall. Looking down, you note that your previous prisoner seems gone, too, but the rope to climb down is still there (and secure).Patlin05-02-06, 07:25 PMBanion shimmies down the rope quickly, scanning the area for an ambush, then disapears into the shadows.SlagMortar05-02-06, 09:07 PMBeamer follows Banion's lead trying to mimic his stealthy movements.Patlin05-03-06, 10:35 PMNot to count our chickens, but at some point we should get down to itemizing all of the various equipment we impounded from the opponents we have incapacitated. Do you want us to do some of the legwork on that, KO? This has been a looooong thread!SlagMortar05-03-06, 10:41 PMOOC: Other than the spell book, there is nothing that Beamer is interested in keeping. I'd prefer if KO threw out a ballpark number and we assumed that any error resulted from good/poor bargaining at the time of sale. But then, I'm lazy. <img src="https://cdn.jsdelivr.net/joypixels/assets/8.0/png/unicode/64/1f642.png" class="smilie smilie--emoji" loading="lazy" width="64" height="64" alt=":)" title="Smile    :)"  data-smilie="1"data-shortname=":)" />Knight Otu05-03-06, 10:43 PM(How much of it did you take along, by the way? I'll need to go through the sheets to see what you got from the four guards in the corridors, but I think the list of what you lowered down the wall after looting the guys in the courtyard is further up - though that one might be out of fate...)Patlin05-03-06, 10:46 PMThat sounds fine to me too, but if KO wants us to tally up the number of opponents whose equipment we collected, I'm willing to help. That wouldn't be that much work. Heck, Dungannon had me sum up the whole adventure for our employer at the end of Hired Hands! <img src="https://cdn.jsdelivr.net/joypixels/assets/8.0/png/unicode/64/1f642.png" class="smilie smilie--emoji" loading="lazy" width="64" height="64" alt=":)" title="Smile    :)"  data-smilie="1"data-shortname=":)" /> That was labor intensive...Knight Otu05-03-06, 10:48 PMKaeri - a splint mail and a greatsword, 2 gpDeleth - studded leather, morningstar, 120 gpGuard - breastplate, buckler, scimitar, 7 gpAstrid - studded leather, heavy wooden shield, longsword, 5 gpThis list doesn't include potential masterwork or magic status.Patlin05-03-06, 11:05 PM(How much of it did you take along, by the way? I'll need to go through the sheets to see what you got from the four guards in the corridors, but I think the list of what you lowered down the wall after looting the guys in the courtyard is further up - though that one might be out of fate...)I thought Gur pulled the stuff from the guys of the courtyard up the wall and packed it along with him, though I could be wrong about that.Knight Otu05-03-06, 11:14 PMI thought Gur pulled the stuff from the guys of the courtyard up the wall and packed it along with him, though I could be wrong about that.(That's cold, reduced to a pack mule because his player is absent. <img src="http://www.enworld.org/forum/images/smilies/laugh.png"  class="smilie" loading="lazy" alt=":lol:" title="Laughing    :lol:" data-shortname=":lol:" /> But I'd like to note that Gur has only a strength of 11, so he makes for a bad pack mule.)SlagMortar05-03-06, 11:19 PMOOC: Yeah, I was wondering who was carrying what as well. I know Beamer's not. His light load is something like 11 lbs. <img src="https://cdn.jsdelivr.net/joypixels/assets/8.0/png/unicode/64/1f642.png" class="smilie smilie--emoji" loading="lazy" width="64" height="64" alt=":)" title="Smile    :)"  data-smilie="1"data-shortname=":)" /> Carrying stuff is just one of the many skills our group does not have.Knight Otu05-03-06, 11:24 PMHis leather armor, shield and warhammer all seem to be of good quality.The two downed crossbowmen are also unconcious. Apart from their crossbows, they carry nothing of interest.(OK, it seems reasonably that at least the first round of loot can be carried by Gur, and probably some of the other stuff.)Patlin05-03-06, 11:28 PMooc: Wow, that's sad -- with a strength of 12, it looks like Banion is the strongest party member! Excepting possibly Azaroth, as I don't know his strength score...I guess we should be happy with the amount our miniscule muscles managed to drag away.Are we wrapping up, KO, or are we being chased? Banion has no plans other than getting to our noble and well funded patrons and picking up the 6,250 gp they owe to the party!Maybe he'll buy a haversack to solve the load issue if we manage to collect. <img src="https://cdn.jsdelivr.net/joypixels/assets/8.0/png/unicode/64/1f642.png" class="smilie smilie--emoji" loading="lazy" width="64" height="64" alt=":)" title="Smile    :)"  data-smilie="1"data-shortname=":)" />SlagMortar05-03-06, 11:32 PMOOC: Beamer would like to see if the nobles are interested in funding a larger expedition to search for the other piece of the Dance of Souls. He would also bargain hard for the full reward despite their inability to capture Deleth and Turlach. But that may all be premature if we get ambushed by the Talon.Patlin05-03-06, 11:35 PMThe task we would hire you for would be to find the thieves, bring them to their rightful justice, and return the pieces they stole to us. We are willing to pay 6000 gold pieces, divided among you, for this.""And ahnozer 1000 eef yoo manage to find hints zat may leed to ozer peeces of ze Dance of Sools." Seran chimes in.ooc: What, being stabbed multiple times isn't enough justice for a little bit of theft? It was short justice, but pointy -- what other sort did they expect from a halfling soulknife?Knight Otu05-03-06, 11:41 PMooc: Wow, that's sad -- with a strength of 12, it looks like Banion is the strongest party member! Excepting possibly Azaroth, as I don't know his strength score...(14, but he wasn't around for the looting round. I'll simply allow polymorphing Gur into a pack mule and say you got those items, along with the Dance of Souls and a ton of papers.)And thus it happened that not just did the beaten ones flee from the Keep of Bloodstained Dreams, but the victors as well, despite Azaroths protestations. Soon, the group feels tired, and stumbles into the hideout where they had kept their horses and the conquered cart. Stowing away the items, the question comes if you want to press on, or take your chances with sleeping in the possible reach of the Keep's influence?Patlin05-03-06, 11:57 PMAnd the story shall read: Bravely road Banion Lorish, as fast and far away from his enemies as he could manage, tired though he was. ooc: Anyone have coconuts?SlagMortar05-04-06, 12:10 AMBeamer agrees to continue on, but not farther than necessary to be away from the dreams. He tells Azaroth, "We aren't out of these mountains yet. You may yet get your chance for revenge."Knight Otu05-04-06, 12:17 AMAfter a long ride, the party gets to the place where, last time, they were not bothered by the dreams.Patlin05-04-06, 12:47 AMWe camp, then. Banion volunteers for first watch.Knight Otu05-04-06, 01:01 AMThe group gets to rest, finally, with Banion taking the first watch.[sblock=banion]You are on the plains, green up to the horizon. Suddenly, everything turns grey. Ash gray. The whole plains turns to ashes. Then, a figure raises from the ashes. It appears vaguely humanoid. It steps towards you, and becomes even more humanoid, even recognizable as female. It looks at you disdainfully, and says "Remember the warning. We know you now." It vanishes, and the plains reappears, but something has changed...[/sblock][sblock=beamer]You are on the plains, green up to the horizon. Suddenly, everything turns grey. Ash gray. The whole plains turns to ashes. Then, a figure raises from the ashes. It appears vaguely humanoid. It steps towards you, and becomes even more humanoid, even recognizable as female. It looks at you disdainfully, and says "Remember the warning. We know you now." It vanishes, and the plains reappears, but something has changed...[/sblock][sblock=azaroth]You are in the city, festivals and announcements of a tournament abound. Suddenly, everything turns grey. Ash gray. The whole city turns to ashes. Then, a figure raises from the ashes. It appears vaguely humanoid. It steps towards you, and becomes even more humanoid, even recognizable as female. It looks at you with a vague smile, and says "We know you now. But remember the warning." It vanishes, and the city reappears, but something has changed...[/sblock]Everyone who still suffered from Wisdom damage heals 1 point of the damage.SlagMortar05-04-06, 01:11 AMBeamer wakes refreshed and a little disturbed. "It seems the Talon has some way of communicating through dreams. Remember that they warned us that if we reveal the Talon we will have the entire organization after us? Do you think they can make good on that threat?"Knight Otu05-04-06, 01:23 AM"The dwarf kept on going about how we don't know the true power of the Talon, that we probably didn't see the true size of the Lathirn cell, and that it wasn't even the largest. Even boasted about being one of the few forces capable of changing the world." Azaroth says. "Guess it depends on how truthful she was."Patlin05-04-06, 01:38 AM"There's no reason for us to discuss the events with anyone, in any event. We'll tell the nobles that we got the artwork back from the thieves, that the thieves were working with some very dangerous people, that the thieves were badly beaten, and that the thieves are most likely right now having to apologize to their employers for their failure -- employers who are meaner and more ruthless than we or they. Other than that, we refuse to give any more information and we tell them, truthfully, that the more they know about the situation the more likely they'll wake up one knight to find an assassin in their bedroom... or they won't wake up at all. They don't want to know about the people involved, and we're not going to tell them."[/sblock][/spoiler]</blockquote>

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