Post by Aeter on Oct 30, 2013 19:59:38 GMT -6
Aeter (DM):
Welcome back, adventurers! It's been awhile since the party entered the ruins in search of the Wands of Control Water. So far, the group successfully invaded the headquarters of the Ebon Triad without raising the alarm, defeating guards at some passes and simply out-witting them at others. Tia served as the makeshift face of the group with that telltale red bandana around her forehead marking her as a employee -- or at least as the hired help. So far, the only true items of any significance they found were a journal near a torture rack. The journal was full of mad ramblings and necromantic notes that were simply beyond Castellan's own skill to decipher. It also mentioned the three 'leaders' of the Ebon Triad currently present; Triel, a gnoll named Tarkilar, and a third nakmed Skaven that was only briefly mentioned. The last page of the journal had only five words scrolled across the page: THE RITUAL IS NEARLY COMPLETE.
Argios the Red:
Argios brought up the rear of the group, carefully closing the door behind him so that any sound they made wouldn't alert the guards within that room. He kept his eyes open, his massive battleaxe clutched tight in one hand as his shield protected his opposite side.
Castellan:
With the others coiled to strike behind him, Castellan would push open the next swivel-door, peeking into the room beyond.
* Enzek smirks to himself, wondering how the Ebon Triad is able to function as an organization when they're hiring such incompetent underlings.
Aeter (DM):
This long room is partially collapsed. The northwestern portion has been destroyed by an ancient lava flow, but two circular lava tubes seem to provide access to the caves beyond.
* Enzek raises his crossbow, aimed upward toward the ceiling, as the glances at Castellan, waiting for him to proceed.
Castellan:
"Hmn. Didn't he say there were creatures in the caves?"
Enzek:
"Hrm, I believe so. Unless he was talking about creatures in the caves beyond that room we just left."
Enzek:
"Seems they don't have as tight a grip on their own stronghold as I first surmised!"
Erialistia:
The deeper they journeyed into the crude hide out, the more Tia longed for a flask filled with bourbon and the sweet taste of a cigar positioned between her lips. Instead she was stuck clutching Last Rites as she inched up behind the make shift band of three and a half heros, leaving Arigos positioned behind her. At least he was focused on defending and not her ass. That was something. "Maybe we went the wrong way?"
Argios the Red:
Argios through to the room with the others. "They mentioned they were guarding a treasury... But they also said that a lot of these caves were filled with monsters, if I believe. They were giving us instructions back through the complex, but I don't find harm in looking about here. Triel may have hidden the wands anywhere."
Argios the Red:
Argios WANDERED through the room*
Argios the Red:
Argios also slid past Miss Tia, letting the sneaky, observant one take the rear.
Enzek:
"Hrm, might as well. Maybe they've hidden some of the wands in there?"
* Enzek steps toward the tubes, perking his ears up to see if he can hear anything coming from them.
Enzek:
Perception: « 1d20+10 = 2 + 10 = 12 »
Aeter (DM):
Roll a perception check, Enzek.
Aeter (DM):
WELL THERE YOU GO
Enzek:
Was looking for the modifier. xD ))
Enzek:
"Hrm, I don't hear anything! You guys wanna head in?"
Aeter (DM):
HEY
* Enzek steps toward the larger-seeming of the two.
Aeter (DM):
I DIDN'T SAY
Aeter (DM):
YOU DIDN'T HEAR ANYTHING
Aeter (DM):
HOOKER
Aeter (DM):
YOU WAIT.
Castellan:
Pirate hooker.
Enzek:
Oh, sorry. I figured with such a bad roll he couldn't hear anything. ))
Castellan:
Listen checks are really low DC most of the time. Unless you're trying to hear ninjas. ))
Enzek:
I gotcha. ))
Aeter (DM):
To the left most passageway were the occasional 'clank' of movement, though Enzek could not figure out exactly what the sound was. It was, however, large enough to echo down the cavern. The right most passageway held nothing but silence.
* Enzek turns to the group. "There's something down the left one. Can't hear anything on the right."
Castellan:
Castellan closed his eyes, touching his hand to his brow. A faint shimmer would frame his eyes as they opened. (Casting Detect Magic and concentrating down either tunnel. )
* Enzek takes a couple steps inward, his whisper gnome affinity for stealth kicking in. Stealth: « 1d20+9 = 3 + 9 = 12 »
Aeter (DM):
Enzek sneaks!
Castellan:
Any auras? )
Erialistia:
It wasn't only quite visible, but it was also something that produced a noticible sound when Tia's palm smacked against her forehead. Of course. Something down the left, so he goes left. Why was this never easy?
* Enzek pokes his head down the next corner. Perception: « 1d20+10 = 10 + 10 = 20 »
Aeter (DM):
Detect Magic: Necromancy down both the right and left corridors. Very, very strong just to the left.
Aeter (DM):
« 1d20 = 10 »
Castellan:
Castellan pursed his lips for a moment, attempting to wave Enzek back.
Aeter (DM):
Enzek seemed to successfully peek his head around the corner... to see the large creature beyond. It was nothing but bone, yet its movements were almost life-like as it glanced from side to side, echoing movements that it had in life that it simply could not shake off in death, though it did not seem to notice Enzek.
* Enzek widens his eyes at the strange and terrifying creature, beating a hasty retreat to the rest of his party to report.
Castellan:
"These halls are aglow with Necromancy, Master Enzek."
Enzek:
"There's something big, bony, and very bad just down the tunnel here!"
Erialistia:
"Castellan is right here..."
Castellan:
He scowled at Tia.
Enzek:
"Necromancy. no kidding! Well then, you guys feelin' lucky?"
Castellan:
"Let me have a look."
Argios the Red:
"You are the epitome of description, Brother." He smiled wareily to Enzek, glancing over his shoulder to Tia with a lifted brow. He shook his head slowly, turning his attention forward once more while Castellan went to take a look.
* Enzek waves Castellan into the tunnel. "By all means!"
Castellan:
Castellan, ever the ninja, did his best to sneak into a more useful vantage point. Stealth: « 1d20+2 = 4 + 2 = 6 »
Castellan:
With all the grace of a parapalegic cat, Castellan prowled to the corner.
* Enzek snickers at Argios. "Couldn't think of any other way to describe such a thing."
Skeleton T Rex:
And Castellan came face-to-face with the large animated skeleton, those empty sockets staring at him... And, out of nowhere, the T-rex lunged forward, crashing into the stone and forcing the walls about him to shake as sharp rows of teeth snapped out towards Castellan. The room seemed too small for the skeleton to truly move, and it seemed impossible for it to truly *fit* any further down the tunnel. (Surprise Attack on Castellan.)
Skeleton T Rex:
« 1d20+16 = 1 + 16 = 17 »
Skeleton T Rex:
Natural 1, miss.
* Enzek ,hearing the commotion, readies himself to rush to the aid of his comrade.
Castellan:
Castellan's mismatched eyes went alight in wonder, like a child seeing Jurassic Park for the first time... if it were filmed in hell. "This is bad." As it lunged for him, he yelled louder. "THIS IS BAD!"
Argios the Red:
"Back!" Argios hissed out to Castellan, his eyes wide as he saw that gigantic maw come snapping around the corner, his shield at the ready. "Come back through the tunnel, Master Castellan! Quickly!" (Letting Castellan take a round. Will see if initiative will be rolled depending on what Castellan does.)
Castellan:
((How far can Huge reach? ))
Argios the Red:
( 10' )
Castellan:
Castellan couldn't leave the creature's reach very safely, likely risking injury as he backed himself into a corner.
Skeleton T Rex:
The skeleton crashed forward, striking the stone wall and snapping its jaws rapidly towards Castellan. It was obviously an unintelligent undead, as Castellan was quite familiar with these. A guardian and a ward: Nothing more. It would lie dormant again once this living creature backed away... Yet, all that was behind Castellan was rubble that would take a bit of time to traverse, leaving him briefly cut off from his party.
Castellan:
((Why is he moving on my turn fff ))
Enzek:
Holy sheeeet, that's big. xD ))
Aeter (DM):
Because it's how I roll.
Castellan:
Flicking his hands into motion, Castellan muttered the words of his spell in desperation as he saw the creature claw at the too tight tunnel... though its progress was negligible, he wasn't willing to wait to see how long it would take to give up. He flung his hands out towards it. Command Undead! No save for mindless.
Argios the Red:
" ... Master Castellan! Are you alright?" He called quickly over, heading towards the right most passageway, stopping just before the rubble. "... It seems that path is closed off to us, unless we feel it to be a good idea to confront this guardian."
Skeleton T Rex:
Command Undead successful!
Enzek:
"Hang on, Argios. Deads are kind of Castellan's thing. I think he knows what he's doing."
Castellan:
"I think... we're okay. Sit."
Skeleton T Rex:
The large beast did as commanded, lowering back onto what would have been its haunches if it still had flesh, the large tail sweeping the ground.
Erialistia:
At this point, two of the party members had gone down that tunnel and she swore they both came close to wetting their pants. It was unfortunate that Castellan had disappeared down another tunnel, but she was insistent on not losing her life to whatever it was. "Well... He'll be missed?" she said unconvincingly before his voice came echoing down the tunnel.
Argios the Red:
" ... Blessed Saint and all the Judges... " He muttered, his eyes widening as he watched the man... giving *commands* to this skeletal monstrosity.
Castellan:
"You must come see!" Castellan was, naturally, exhilarated. "Oh, I cannot wait to tell my masters at the Cathedral of this accomplishment."
* Enzek walks up to Castellan's side."
Castellan:
"You are to sit until I tell you to do otherwise."
Erialistia:
Tia sighed and muttered under her breath, "That man and his big bones," before proceeding to follow - reluctantly.
Argios the Red:
Argios, too, moved up with the group, letting Tia follow. His eyes were wide as he swept the creature with his eyes. "... It is a pity that these tunnels are too small for it to move. It is a powerful creature indeed."
Enzek:
"Impressive! That could have been ugly without one of your talents. How're you planning on getting it out though?"
* Enzek chuckles.
Castellan:
"Maybe we could take it out in pieces - later, I mean. When we have time."
Castellan:
"Or perhaps I could purchase a scroll in town..."
Castellan:
He boldly stepped towards the skeleton, patting its 'nose', before running his gloved hand down to its steak-knife teeth. "Marvelous."
Enzek:
"Hrm. Shame we can't use it to make a big entrance into wherever the leaders are holding up, but at least we don't have to fight it! Shall we proceed then? Must have been guarding something big."
Castellan:
((Castellan sets up a messy bed and instructs the T-rex to try and make it until they get back.))
Argios the Red:
" ... Perhaps, but I would not deem it wise to have such a creature anywhere near the city proper. Necromancy within the city has been forbidden by an ancient accord, though there have not been any recent laws passed... But, I do not think the Church of Pelor would look favorably upon it." He nodded, glancing behind the large monster. " A possibility. We are heading towards the tunnels guarded by those two that Tia convinced of our innocence. They said it was a treasury, but... we should be wary. "
Castellan:
"Oh, certainly not, Master Argios, not in town... but... to let it go to waste..." He frowned. It was like finding a magic sword, for him! But way better. "Back up," He instructed. "Then sit and wait for further instructions."
Enzek:
"Prob'ly not, but the Church of Pelor ain't here riskin' life and limb to save the town."
Argios the Red:
" Shame on you, Brother Enzek." He stated quite firmly to the gnome who seemed to *DISCARD LAWS*.
Castellan:
("Is that man riding through town on a skeletal T-rex?" "Yes." "...Shouldn't we stop him!?" "Do you really want to try and stop THAT?" )
Aeter (DM):
( Enzek takes -1 to the DC of his spells for the next day )
Castellan:
(Ohhh snaaaaap)
Aeter (DM):
( Basically, until he rests again. )
Enzek:
"I don't think this place falls under our jurisdiction."
Castellan:
(Also I told it to back out of the way and sit down like a good skeleton. )
Erialistia:
Tia took Argios's subtle hint and slid passed the boys, and the skeletal beast, to head for the tunnel with as much stealth as she could muster. « 1d20+10 = 11 + 10 = 21 »
Enzek:
(( Besides wouldn't he know that part of Enzek's job is to use more questionable means to accomplish tasks that the warriors and paladins of the church wouldn't be able to tackle? ))
Argios the Red:
" We are speaking of the city, Master Enzek. This is a matter for a tribunal, not for us to decide. For now, I see no harm in it."
Argios the Red:
( But, 'Who cares what the Church of Pelor thinks? They're not here.' is a distinctly chaotic belief. )
Castellan:
(Truth.)
Castellan:
"Stay here and guard this room until we get back." Castellan ordered, ushering the others to go ahead first, in case losing sight of him would set off Fluffy.
Enzek:
(( It just means he's got a necromancer friend who's actually helping him. Church of Pelor ain't doing shit to help them, so he's got nothing against Castellan using his necromancy to help them accomplish their goals. ))
Castellan:
((But it's still a chaotic statement. ))
Argios the Red:
( That's fine, but St. Cuthbert wouldn't look kindly on that statement, thus the DC penalty. You can gain boons or weaknesses through RP. Rules as Intended! )
Aeter (DM):
Tia peered around the edge of the tunnel... And the stink hit her first. What was a minor scent had now wafted from further on. Sticky pools of congealed fluid lie in depressions on the floor, having drained from several rotting giant spider carcasses that had been pushed against the northwest wall. Roll a perception check, Tia.
Enzekicus Maximus is disconnected.
Castellan Stillwind is disconnected.
Erialistia "Tia" Culnamo is disconnected.
Castellan Stillwind has connected.
Erialistia "Tia" Culnamo has connected.
Enzekicus Maximus has connected.
Castellan Stillwind:
((I'm looking at the big Cauldron map. ))
Erialistia "Tia" Culnamo:
Water stung at her eyes, her lips opened and from the sheer horror and then a hand promptly clasped over it to keep the smell from choking her. She quickly found the need to pull that red bandana from her head and cover her nose and mouth with it, hoping it would relieve some of the stench. A few deep breaths through her mouth and she was once again moving forward in an attempt to scout out what lie ahead.
Castellan Stillwind:
((Better move your guys up or I'ma let my T-rex eat 'em. ))
Enzekicus Maximus:
Move where? ))
Erialistia:
« 1d20+6 = 8 + 6 = 14 »
Castellan:
"Master Argios, go ahead. He won't bite. I've told him to guard this hall so we're not followed."
Aeter (DM):
Nestled around the corpses were two large humanoid creatures; ogres, by the looks of them.. Yet, their flesh was as rotten and decaying as the spiders that they occasionally feasted upon. More guardians, no doubt.
Erialistia:
Tia's brow furrowed at the sight, unaware of how careless Castellan was being with her attempt at stealth. She sessed out the room, looking to see if there was more than just the two as she inched closer... carefully.
Aeter (DM):
« 1d20 = 14 »
Aeter (DM):
There were only two. The chamber simply could not fit any more. Though, Tia managed to glance beyond to the further chambers. One held additional movement; the sound of chains... and the slight glinting of a metallic chest.
* Enzekicus Maximus studies Tia's movements, trying to determine whether she found something interesting.
Enzek:
(( whoops ))
Castellan:
Castellan waves Argios forward, the T-rex skeleton sitting like a statue.
Erialistia:
(Is he right behind her now?)
Castellan:
(May or may not be grabbing her butt.)
Enzek:
lol ))
Aeter (DM):
( Roll a stealth check, Castellan )
Castellan:
« 1d20+2 = 11 + 2 = 13 »
Aeter (DM):
« 1d20 = 8 »
Castellan:
Castellan peeked around the corner, only able to make out a small glimpse of the shambling creatures within. The smell didn't seem to fuss him any. "More of them... Perhaps Nerull's follower in this Ebon Triad raised them." He whispered, thinking aloud.
Argios the Red:
Argios slid past the large skeletal creature to glance beyond. His nose immediately wrinkled over his grey beard, causing him to shift uncomfortably in his armor. "Caught between the hammer and anvil. Do we attack, or stay back?"
Castellan:
"I've enough power to take one... we can use it to kill the other."
Enzek:
"Take 'em out before they can hurt innocents, I say."
Castellan:
"Certainly can't leave them at the whim of Nerull's flock." The idea of leaving them in the Reaper's care certainly made his nose wrinkle, if the smell did not.
* Enzek raises his crossbow, waiting for the word on his comrades to attack.
Erialistia:
Tia frowned at their talking and inched closer to the other side of the cavern, just out of sight or so she hoped. Least if they grabbed the attention of the beasts, Tia wouldn't be in the charge range.
Argios the Red:
" Very well... To battle, then." (Roll initiative!)
Enzek:
Initiative: « 1d20+1 = 8 + 1 = 9 »
Castellan:
« 1d20+1 = 10 + 1 = 11 »
Castellan:
("What's initiative?" "It determines what order we go in." "Oh. I punch the initiative!" )
Argios the Red:
« 1d20+1 = 8 + 1 = 9 »
Enzek:
rofl ))
Argios the Red:
[Enzek, reroll against me.
Argios the Red:
« 1d20+1 = 11 + 1 = 12 »
Enzek:
« 1d20+1 = 5 + 1 = 6 »
Erialistia:
Initiative: « 1d20+8 = 1 + 8 = 9 »
Aeter (DM):
« 1d20-2 = 1 - 2 = -1 »« 1d20-2 = 7 - 2 = 5 »
Erialistia has received initiative.
Castellan has received initiative.
Erialistia:
(Oh good. BRB for 30 minutes plotting my attack.)
Enzek:
(( It's like they're slower than time itself. ))
Castellan:
Castellan had his plan made up. He stepped around the corner, mouthing the words to the same spell that had enthralled the T-rex. Command Undead on Ogre 1!
Castellan:
(Actually, Ogre 2, I see him better. )
Aeter (DM):
( Zombies are mindless: Command Undead successful. )
Castellan:
"Fight the ogre!" He ordered the monstrosity, pointing at its intended target. (End turn!)
Erialistia has received initiative.
Enzek:
(( Castellan catches Zombie Ogre! Give a name to Zombie Ogre? ))
Castellan:
((T-rex is fluffy, ogre is Uncle Fester. ))
Enzek:
(( Uncle Fester sent to Box 1. ))
Enzek:
(( Pokeromancy is fun. ))
Erialistia:
With the target now chosen, Tia shifted into the shadows, letting them consume her sillouhette as though it didn't exist (Child of Shadow). She moved around the corner as swiftly as she could. Even her dagger seemed made of darkness as she lunged it towards the ogre's body. (Clinging Shadow Strike) « 1d20+8 = 16 + 8 = 24 »
Erialistia:
« 1d6 = 5 »
Erialistia:
« 1d6 = 2 »
Erialistia:
« 1d4+3 = 4 + 3 = 7 »
Aeter (DM):
« 1d20+2 = 8 + 2 = 10 »
Aeter (DM):
Failed will save: Ogre 1 blinded.
Argios the Red has received initiative.
Aeter (DM):
« 1d5 = 4 »« 1d4 = 4 »
Aeter (DM):
Shield Block and Foehammer readied. Argios decided to take his chance, rushing into combat past the two. He stepped past Tia, provoking the attack from the ogre. (AoO)
Aeter (DM):
« 1d20+9 = 14 + 9 = 23 »
Aeter (DM):
Miss Chance: Needs 21+
Aeter (DM):
« 1d100 = 100 »
Aeter (DM):
Hits.
Aeter (DM):
« 2d8+9 = 6 + 9 = 15 »
Aeter (DM):
Argios takes 15 damage.
Castellan:
Better him than me! >.> )
* Enzek cringes. He could hear that crunch from here.
Argios the Red:
Argios was struck square in the abdomen by the large club, yet he did not react. Not yet. His large axe was brought up with a single arm, clenching his teeth as he brought it back down -- Hard. (Foehammer. Furios Counterstrike = +2 to attack/damage.)
Argios the Red:
« 1d20+7 = 11 + 7 = 18 »
Argios the Red:
( 18 hits. )
Argios the Red:
« 1d12+5+2d6 = 11 + 5 + 8 = 24 »
Argios the Red:
Argios deals 24 DR-overcoming damage.
Enzek has received initiative.
* Enzek moves into a good vantage point to attack.
* Enzek points his crossbow at the ogre they're currently fighting, takes careful aim, and...
Enzek:
« 1d20+5 = 13 + 5 = 18 »
Argios the Red:
Hits.
Enzek:
« 1d3 = 1 »
Aeter (DM):
The bolt sticks into ogre flesh like a pincushion. (DR 5/slashing. No damage.)
* Enzek frowns, the bolt having no seeming effect.
Enzek:
(End turn)
Zombie Ogre 2:
The second ogre had his commands. He lifted his club in both hands, using that reach to bring it down on his companion's head.
Zombie Ogre 2:
( Flanking )
Zombie Ogre 2:
« 1d20+11 = 10 + 11 = 21 »
Zombie Ogre 2:
« 2d8+9 = 11 + 9 = 20 »
Zombie Ogre 1:
The Ogre Zombie, which nearly fell apart under the contact, raged. It lashed out in multiple directions, one club flying for its companion while Tia recieved a harsh ogre backhand.
Zombie Ogre 1:
« 1d20+9 = 3 + 9 = 12 »« 1d20+9 = 15 + 9 = 24 »
Zombie Ogre 1:
Tia is hit by the ogre backhand!
Zombie Ogre 1:
« 1d8+9 = 1 + 9 = 10 »
Zombie Ogre 1:
Tia takes 10 damage.
Castellan has received initiative.
Castellan:
CHRIS BROWN'D.
Erialistia:
Suddenly, a Tia goes flying back into the cavern wall behind her with a loud thud.
Castellan:
Castellan tried getting closer, finding himself at a loss for what he could do now. Most of his magic would strengthen the vile thing, not fell it. Tia took that rough blow as he passed, his hand drawing gleaming silver from his sash - though his approach may have left him open to the ogre. (Not sure if I provoke, but I move here.)
Castellan:
It's a new round so I most likely do. :x)
Aeter (DM):
( You do )
Aeter (DM):
« 1d20+9 = 17 + 9 = 26 »
Castellan:
Argh my butt )
Aeter (DM):
BIFF!
Aeter (DM):
« 2d8+9 = 11 + 9 = 20 »
Aeter (DM):
18 damage to Castellan.
Enzek:
Jesus... ))
Castellan:
Castellan felt the wind leave him as that club connected with his middle, but not one to take it unanswered, he flailed back with his silver dagger. « 1d20+2 = 15 + 2 = 17 »
Aeter (DM):
Hit.
Castellan:
« 1d4-2 = 4 - 2 = 2 »
Castellan:
2 slashing! )
Aeter (DM):
The zombie fell upon the ogres, that last blow finally taking him to his true death.
Aeter (DM):
er
Aeter (DM):
upon the spiders.
Aeter (DM):
Combat over.
Castellan:
xD Did it really only have 2 hp? )
Aeter (DM):
( Yes. )
Castellan:
FEEBLE DAGGER FTW)
Castellan:
Castellan coughed as he sank to his knees, unaware that the ogre fell into a fleshy heap as he did. "Goddess, that... oogh..."
* Enzek rushes in, seeing the ogre falling. He looks to his comrades, checking to see if they're okay.
Enzek:
(( Hrm, thing is I don't remember how much Channel Energy I've used this game. ))
Argios the Red:
( Once since they entered. )
Enzek:
(( Thanks, sorry 'bout that. I'll keep better track next time. ))
Argios the Red:
" That... was far more painful than it should have been." He winced, cursing his own lack of tact as he reached into the pouch under his cloak, grabbing a potion and guzzling it down. (Cure Moderate Wounds!)
Argios the Red:
« 2d8+3 = 10 + 3 = 13 »
* Enzek notices Argios has his own health covered, and that Castellan's dark magic can put himself back together. He looks now to Tia, approaching her and using his last bit of inner energy to mend her up a bit. Channel Energy « 2d6 = 7 »
Aeter (DM):
( 7 HP healed to Tia. )
Castellan:
"At least it was only the one?" Castellan wheezed as he got up, finally looking at the felled ogre. His desperate swipe, while enfeebled by his blood loss earlier, had severed the right bit of tissue, given that it was now a pile of gore before them. He rubbed his tender ribs, steadily channeling his dark power to mend himself.
Erialistia:
"... Castellan, do you want to do the honors of searching it?" she muttered with a drunken-esk slurr. "Thank you," she offered to Enzek with a tired smile, thankful for his assistance.
Aeter (DM):
Down the passageway to your left is an open tunnel, the chamber seemingly empty. To the right, however... Vivid light shone from within.
Aeter (DM):
( Need a quick AFK. Bio. )
Castellan:
"I'll need a few minutes first..." He looked at the other one. "Sit, stay."
Erialistia:
(WHEN YOU GET BACK. TIA SAW A CHEST.)
Castellan:
I saw Tia's chest. Epic, 10/10 would see again. )
* Enzek approaches the ogre, studying it for a moment. "Castellan, how long does this thing of yours last?"
Castellan:
"Four days, give or take an hour."
Castellan:
He eyed the grotesque survivor. "Zombies are... less subtle. Their stench can often give them away, even when buried and hidden. They're quite slothful, as well. I wonder how he got them in here." He pointed to the obviously too small exits. "At least the skeleton could be brought in piecemeal."
Enzek:
"Hm. Long enough to use it for this mission."
Enzek:
"Eh, it's a big meatwall to throw at them, at the very least. Teach them to dabble in such things!"
Castellan:
"If we can get it out of the room."
* Enzek glances down at the passageways behind the ogre. "Hrm. Yeah, good point..."
Aeter (DM):
( Back )
Castellan:
WB! )
Enzek:
(( WB! ))
Castellan:
Now that he was all fixed up, Castellan took a moment to poke through the meaty remains of... well, everything. The spiders, the dead ogre, and the one that was still groaning and drooling. It was all nasty, but he didn't seem fussed.
Castellan:
Searchin'! « 1d20+2 = 1 + 2 = 3 »
Castellan:
;-; Why am I so bad at rng qqqqqq ))
Aeter (DM):
Really, all there seemed to be were spiders and dead ogres. Anything valuable here must have been moved out long ago.
* Enzek skirts around the ogre and looks down toward one of the passageways.
Castellan:
"Stay put," He said, though it likely wasn't to Enzek. He gave the remaining zombie a firm look, before looking into that lit passage.
Aeter (DM):
The passageway Enzek looked down was utterly empty, aside from the passage further down. The other, which Tia likely saw something on was a cave that glittered and glowed; the volcanic rock here has formed millions of tiny black and red crystals that catch the light from a continual flame near the door and reflect it back a millionfold. The one thing that doesn't glitter is a large slab of dull black stone in the center of the room. that had been painstakingly carved and crafted into a large, ornate chest... But, that wasn't all that was on the chest. Two humanoids that looked to be dwarves had been chained to the slab. However, they peered at the two with empty eyes; small worms skittering over their flesh. One odd worm seemed to crawl from the eye socket of a dwarf, almost... *looking* at the party.
* Enzek loses interested in that passage and steps into this room.
Enzek:
interest*
* Enzek covers his mouth and narrows his eyes at the grisly sight of two dead-looking dwarves.
Castellan:
(What kind of check to ID them? )
Aeter (DM):
( Religion. )
Castellan:
Castellan gets a creeping feeling as he sees the worm-ridden Dwarves. « 1d20+6 = 5 + 6 = 11 »
Enzek:
Religion: « 1d20+3 = 17 + 3 = 20 »
Enzek:
(( I forget, can you spontaneously convert spells from your domain slots? ))
Aeter (DM):
Oh, Enzek had heard this story. The Leprous Chronicles tell of the Age of Worms and the final days before squirming legions annihilate the living. Scribed by the prophet Corbius, who dwelled in seclusion on the Island of Fear, the legend holds that the world will be devoured by an endless hunger, and all that lives shall be dead and yet walk the world in twisted, writhing forms. Corbius claimed to have witnessed apocalyptic events revealed to him by a dark angel from the endless heavens. One figure dominates his ravings: Kyuss. These are Sons of Kyuss; living beings infested with the worms. Their very husks had been twisted and morphed into the hungering undead. They were very dangerous, as the worms themselves were parasites.
Enzek:
"Oh, cudgel...guys, these aren't just decaying corpses. Get ready!"
Aeter (DM):
The corpses were chained to the chest. It didn't seem that they could move much from their positions.
Castellan:
"Then what are they? They certainly aren't leaving their charge any time soon."
* Enzek is grateful for his paying attention to his studies during his times at the Temple.
Castellan:
(Age of Worms is another adventure path iirc. )
Aeter (DM):
( Shh, I'm foreshadowing. )
Castellan:
)
Enzek:
"They are the Sons of Kyuss, undead infested with very deadly and hungry worms."
Enzek:
(( Isn't Kyuss an Elder Evil too? ))
Aeter (DM):
( You can roll another Knowledge Religion check, Castellan. +2 bonus for knowing the name. )
Castellan:
« 1d20+6+2 = 1 + 6 + 2 = 9 »
Castellan:
FML )
Aeter (DM):
The name means nothing to you. This sort of prophetic evil obviously wasn't in your studies.
Castellan:
GREAT MODIFIERS
Castellan:
AWFUL LUCK
Erialistia:
"... They're worms. We can just step on them."
Castellan:
STARRING CASTELLAN, FALL 2013
* Enzek studies the movements of the creatures. With them being chained as they are, Enzek hasn't tried to run just yet, but he's being cautious just in case, as he loads another crossbow bolt.
Castellan:
"What if it burrows through your boot and into your foot?"
Erialistia:
"Then I suppose you might get a date with me after all. You'll just be pulling the strings..."
Castellan:
Castellan looks bright for a moment, starting to work his way through Tarkilar's scribbled writings for any mention of Kyuss.
* Enzek thinks carefully on what they should do next.
Castellan:
"Be still my heart, Miss Tia..." He muttered as he flipped through the maddened writings.
Castellan:
"Have you a torch, Master Enzek?"
Enzek:
(( Does Enzek remember any kind of nasty powers/afflictions these guys are capable of? ))
Enzek:
"I've Sunrods and a Light spell at the ready, but no torches."
Castellan:
"Fire may be our best bet..."
Castellan:
((Or unravel the thread holding them together. They're like Boogie Oogie from NMBC, right? )
Enzek:
Lmao ))
Aeter (DM):
These things give of an unnatural chill aura, almost like Castellan does... And they cause horrible diseases of rotten flesh and dementia. The worst part was that each worm was dangerous, and every single one could both kill and turn its host into a mindless undead. A true plague.
Castellan:
"I've an idea."
* Enzek cringes. He knew they needed to get to that chest, but his mind wasn't coming up with options.
Erialistia:
(Put "almost like Castellan does," at the end of every sentence.)
* Enzek looks at Castellan, grateful for those words.
Castellan:
LOL)
Castellan:
"I've a spell that can hide us from their senses."
Erialistia:
Tia leaned against Castellan and murmured into his ear lowly, "Did you consult for these guys?"
Castellan:
He frowned. "I am not nearly so talented... or dastardly, Miss Tia."
Enzek:
"Does it protect from their chill aura, though?"
Castellan:
"It will only mask us from their senses. I will take the risk and approach, if you are afraid."
Enzek:
"No no, nothing like that. Just that I might have something for that one."
Enzek:
(( Protection from Evil would work, right? ))
Castellan:
Castellan waved Argios closer, as he began to cast his spell.
Castellan:
"If you've a ward in mind, Enzek, you'd best cast it first."
Enzek:
"It'll only work on one target."
Argios the Red:
" Very well... Let's see if we can just get to the chest, extract whatever is in it, and get out."
Enzek:
"Ah, hell...I can do it!"
Castellan:
He frowned. "Only one of us. Were my magics to fail, I would not wish to send one of you in with that risk..."
Erialistia:
"As much as I like shiney, I think Castellan is the best lockpick for that chest..."
Enzek:
"I can be pretty sneaky. Block me from their senses once I ward myself from their aura. I can get in and out lickety-split."
Erialistia:
"Not that I know anything about lockpicks.
Castellan:
("Here lies Enzek Pewpewxbow. They put worms in him lickety-split." )
Argios the Red:
" Very well. Cast your protections on Master Enzek, if you can. We will get the chest open and then get out of this gods forsaken place. There was another tunnel to wander down... or, the complex to return to."
Enzek:
(( Don't think I'll survive? ))
Castellan:
"You must take great care not to touch them in any way, Master Enzek. Are you certain of this?"
Enzek:
"Absolutely! Just the chest."
* Enzek closes his eyes, concentrating his magic as a wave of pure evil-warding goodness washes over him. (Casting Protection from Evil)
Aeter (DM):
Protection from Evil cast on Enzek! Any other spells?
Erialistia:
Frowned as Enzek became the one taking the risk. It wasn't that she disliked Castellan, Enzek just looked like a little boy with a beared and she had a soft spot for children.
Castellan:
Castellan nodded, more somber than the confident Gnome. "Goddess preserve you, Master Enzek." He began his spellcraft, touching first Enzek, then Tia, then Argios, and himself. If Enzek wound up infested and turned, well, he wouldn't see them for a few minutes at least."
Aeter (DM):
( What's the spelllll? )
Castellan:
(Hide from Undead cast on four targets.)
Erialistia:
Tia frowned as the 'touch' she was given bordered on accidental groping, still she ignored it as she muttered to him. "If he dies you're telling the wee ones."
Castellan:
Oh hey, that would have also been good for the last two rooms, but I have a pet t-rex and fuck you guys. )
Aeter (DM):
And, just like that, the endless gaze of the infested dwarves shifted. No longer did they look at the group as these new hosts had simply... faded from view.
Castellan:
It's like we put on the One Ring. )
Castellan:
Btw, the Led Zeppelin song Ramble On is about LOTR. )
* Enzek takes a deep breath. "Alright, I'm going in! Get ready to strike if things turn ugly?"
Erialistia:
"Things are already pretty ugly."
* Enzek musters all of the whisper gnome sneakiness that he can as he creeps over toward the chest.
Enzek:
Stealth: « 1d20+9 = 4 + 9 = 13 »
Aeter (DM):
You're hidden from view! No need to be sneaky.
Castellan:
They can't hear, smell, see, or otherwise sense you. )
Enzek:
(( Oh okay. ))
Castellan:
But if you touch them that shit ends immediately. )
* Enzek closes in on the corner of the chest. He kneels down and inspects it a bit before deciding to open. Perception: « 1d20+10 = 11 + 10 = 21 »
Aeter (DM):
Enzek! Just before opening (Perception DC 20, you lucky bastard) you notice an odd sheen coming off of the chest. There was some sort of liquid smeared over it. Better not touch it with your bare hands.
Enzek:
(( Can I make a check on the liquid? ))
Aeter (DM):
( Sure. )
Enzek:
(( Nature I'm guessing, or Dungeoneering? ))
Aeter (DM):
( Nature )
Enzek:
« 1d20+3 = 6 + 3 = 9 »
Aeter (DM):
It was a poison. What kind you could not tell, but it seemed to effect the flesh. Tia might find use in a scraping of it.
Enzek:
(( How much of the chest is it covering? ))
Castellan:
Who seriously doesn't wear gloves when they go out adventuring? Noobs! ))
Aeter (DM):
All of it.
* Enzek ,having been smart enough to bring his gloves, carefully reaches toward the lid of the chest, grabs hold, and attempts to lift it open."
Aeter (DM):
Within were a series of sacks, each one laden with coin! You apparently found the treasury.
* Enzek 's eyes widen as he discovers the treasure. He swiftly opens his pack and begins stuffing as much of it as he can into it.
Aeter (DM):
The treasure was too much to count at the moment, but it would take a good portion of your bag space to carry them all. All the same, your excursion has just been funded. Tia as well had gained a bit of new poison to play with. In the end, this branch of the caverns was not a complete waste of time... However, there was still much to explore. The gnoll necromancer that had been responsible for these undead beings was still in the caverns, and there were two more leaders of the Ebon Triad to go. It seemed that this journey was just getting started.
Aeter (DM):
( End for the night. Time played is 3 hours. Next play date will likely be next Monday if we are available. )
Welcome back, adventurers! It's been awhile since the party entered the ruins in search of the Wands of Control Water. So far, the group successfully invaded the headquarters of the Ebon Triad without raising the alarm, defeating guards at some passes and simply out-witting them at others. Tia served as the makeshift face of the group with that telltale red bandana around her forehead marking her as a employee -- or at least as the hired help. So far, the only true items of any significance they found were a journal near a torture rack. The journal was full of mad ramblings and necromantic notes that were simply beyond Castellan's own skill to decipher. It also mentioned the three 'leaders' of the Ebon Triad currently present; Triel, a gnoll named Tarkilar, and a third nakmed Skaven that was only briefly mentioned. The last page of the journal had only five words scrolled across the page: THE RITUAL IS NEARLY COMPLETE.
Argios the Red:
Argios brought up the rear of the group, carefully closing the door behind him so that any sound they made wouldn't alert the guards within that room. He kept his eyes open, his massive battleaxe clutched tight in one hand as his shield protected his opposite side.
Castellan:
With the others coiled to strike behind him, Castellan would push open the next swivel-door, peeking into the room beyond.
* Enzek smirks to himself, wondering how the Ebon Triad is able to function as an organization when they're hiring such incompetent underlings.
Aeter (DM):
This long room is partially collapsed. The northwestern portion has been destroyed by an ancient lava flow, but two circular lava tubes seem to provide access to the caves beyond.
* Enzek raises his crossbow, aimed upward toward the ceiling, as the glances at Castellan, waiting for him to proceed.
Castellan:
"Hmn. Didn't he say there were creatures in the caves?"
Enzek:
"Hrm, I believe so. Unless he was talking about creatures in the caves beyond that room we just left."
Enzek:
"Seems they don't have as tight a grip on their own stronghold as I first surmised!"
Erialistia:
The deeper they journeyed into the crude hide out, the more Tia longed for a flask filled with bourbon and the sweet taste of a cigar positioned between her lips. Instead she was stuck clutching Last Rites as she inched up behind the make shift band of three and a half heros, leaving Arigos positioned behind her. At least he was focused on defending and not her ass. That was something. "Maybe we went the wrong way?"
Argios the Red:
Argios through to the room with the others. "They mentioned they were guarding a treasury... But they also said that a lot of these caves were filled with monsters, if I believe. They were giving us instructions back through the complex, but I don't find harm in looking about here. Triel may have hidden the wands anywhere."
Argios the Red:
Argios WANDERED through the room*
Argios the Red:
Argios also slid past Miss Tia, letting the sneaky, observant one take the rear.
Enzek:
"Hrm, might as well. Maybe they've hidden some of the wands in there?"
* Enzek steps toward the tubes, perking his ears up to see if he can hear anything coming from them.
Enzek:
Perception: « 1d20+10 = 2 + 10 = 12 »
Aeter (DM):
Roll a perception check, Enzek.
Aeter (DM):
WELL THERE YOU GO
Enzek:
Was looking for the modifier. xD ))
Enzek:
"Hrm, I don't hear anything! You guys wanna head in?"
Aeter (DM):
HEY
* Enzek steps toward the larger-seeming of the two.
Aeter (DM):
I DIDN'T SAY
Aeter (DM):
YOU DIDN'T HEAR ANYTHING
Aeter (DM):
HOOKER
Aeter (DM):
YOU WAIT.
Castellan:
Pirate hooker.
Enzek:
Oh, sorry. I figured with such a bad roll he couldn't hear anything. ))
Castellan:
Listen checks are really low DC most of the time. Unless you're trying to hear ninjas. ))
Enzek:
I gotcha. ))
Aeter (DM):
To the left most passageway were the occasional 'clank' of movement, though Enzek could not figure out exactly what the sound was. It was, however, large enough to echo down the cavern. The right most passageway held nothing but silence.
* Enzek turns to the group. "There's something down the left one. Can't hear anything on the right."
Castellan:
Castellan closed his eyes, touching his hand to his brow. A faint shimmer would frame his eyes as they opened. (Casting Detect Magic and concentrating down either tunnel. )
* Enzek takes a couple steps inward, his whisper gnome affinity for stealth kicking in. Stealth: « 1d20+9 = 3 + 9 = 12 »
Aeter (DM):
Enzek sneaks!
Castellan:
Any auras? )
Erialistia:
It wasn't only quite visible, but it was also something that produced a noticible sound when Tia's palm smacked against her forehead. Of course. Something down the left, so he goes left. Why was this never easy?
* Enzek pokes his head down the next corner. Perception: « 1d20+10 = 10 + 10 = 20 »
Aeter (DM):
Detect Magic: Necromancy down both the right and left corridors. Very, very strong just to the left.
Aeter (DM):
« 1d20 = 10 »
Castellan:
Castellan pursed his lips for a moment, attempting to wave Enzek back.
Aeter (DM):
Enzek seemed to successfully peek his head around the corner... to see the large creature beyond. It was nothing but bone, yet its movements were almost life-like as it glanced from side to side, echoing movements that it had in life that it simply could not shake off in death, though it did not seem to notice Enzek.
* Enzek widens his eyes at the strange and terrifying creature, beating a hasty retreat to the rest of his party to report.
Castellan:
"These halls are aglow with Necromancy, Master Enzek."
Enzek:
"There's something big, bony, and very bad just down the tunnel here!"
Erialistia:
"Castellan is right here..."
Castellan:
He scowled at Tia.
Enzek:
"Necromancy. no kidding! Well then, you guys feelin' lucky?"
Castellan:
"Let me have a look."
Argios the Red:
"You are the epitome of description, Brother." He smiled wareily to Enzek, glancing over his shoulder to Tia with a lifted brow. He shook his head slowly, turning his attention forward once more while Castellan went to take a look.
* Enzek waves Castellan into the tunnel. "By all means!"
Castellan:
Castellan, ever the ninja, did his best to sneak into a more useful vantage point. Stealth: « 1d20+2 = 4 + 2 = 6 »
Castellan:
With all the grace of a parapalegic cat, Castellan prowled to the corner.
* Enzek snickers at Argios. "Couldn't think of any other way to describe such a thing."
Skeleton T Rex:
And Castellan came face-to-face with the large animated skeleton, those empty sockets staring at him... And, out of nowhere, the T-rex lunged forward, crashing into the stone and forcing the walls about him to shake as sharp rows of teeth snapped out towards Castellan. The room seemed too small for the skeleton to truly move, and it seemed impossible for it to truly *fit* any further down the tunnel. (Surprise Attack on Castellan.)
Skeleton T Rex:
« 1d20+16 = 1 + 16 = 17 »
Skeleton T Rex:
Natural 1, miss.
* Enzek ,hearing the commotion, readies himself to rush to the aid of his comrade.
Castellan:
Castellan's mismatched eyes went alight in wonder, like a child seeing Jurassic Park for the first time... if it were filmed in hell. "This is bad." As it lunged for him, he yelled louder. "THIS IS BAD!"
Argios the Red:
"Back!" Argios hissed out to Castellan, his eyes wide as he saw that gigantic maw come snapping around the corner, his shield at the ready. "Come back through the tunnel, Master Castellan! Quickly!" (Letting Castellan take a round. Will see if initiative will be rolled depending on what Castellan does.)
Castellan:
((How far can Huge reach? ))
Argios the Red:
( 10' )
Castellan:
Castellan couldn't leave the creature's reach very safely, likely risking injury as he backed himself into a corner.
Skeleton T Rex:
The skeleton crashed forward, striking the stone wall and snapping its jaws rapidly towards Castellan. It was obviously an unintelligent undead, as Castellan was quite familiar with these. A guardian and a ward: Nothing more. It would lie dormant again once this living creature backed away... Yet, all that was behind Castellan was rubble that would take a bit of time to traverse, leaving him briefly cut off from his party.
Castellan:
((Why is he moving on my turn fff ))
Enzek:
Holy sheeeet, that's big. xD ))
Aeter (DM):
Because it's how I roll.
Castellan:
Flicking his hands into motion, Castellan muttered the words of his spell in desperation as he saw the creature claw at the too tight tunnel... though its progress was negligible, he wasn't willing to wait to see how long it would take to give up. He flung his hands out towards it. Command Undead! No save for mindless.
Argios the Red:
" ... Master Castellan! Are you alright?" He called quickly over, heading towards the right most passageway, stopping just before the rubble. "... It seems that path is closed off to us, unless we feel it to be a good idea to confront this guardian."
Skeleton T Rex:
Command Undead successful!
Enzek:
"Hang on, Argios. Deads are kind of Castellan's thing. I think he knows what he's doing."
Castellan:
"I think... we're okay. Sit."
Skeleton T Rex:
The large beast did as commanded, lowering back onto what would have been its haunches if it still had flesh, the large tail sweeping the ground.
Erialistia:
At this point, two of the party members had gone down that tunnel and she swore they both came close to wetting their pants. It was unfortunate that Castellan had disappeared down another tunnel, but she was insistent on not losing her life to whatever it was. "Well... He'll be missed?" she said unconvincingly before his voice came echoing down the tunnel.
Argios the Red:
" ... Blessed Saint and all the Judges... " He muttered, his eyes widening as he watched the man... giving *commands* to this skeletal monstrosity.
Castellan:
"You must come see!" Castellan was, naturally, exhilarated. "Oh, I cannot wait to tell my masters at the Cathedral of this accomplishment."
* Enzek walks up to Castellan's side."
Castellan:
"You are to sit until I tell you to do otherwise."
Erialistia:
Tia sighed and muttered under her breath, "That man and his big bones," before proceeding to follow - reluctantly.
Argios the Red:
Argios, too, moved up with the group, letting Tia follow. His eyes were wide as he swept the creature with his eyes. "... It is a pity that these tunnels are too small for it to move. It is a powerful creature indeed."
Enzek:
"Impressive! That could have been ugly without one of your talents. How're you planning on getting it out though?"
* Enzek chuckles.
Castellan:
"Maybe we could take it out in pieces - later, I mean. When we have time."
Castellan:
"Or perhaps I could purchase a scroll in town..."
Castellan:
He boldly stepped towards the skeleton, patting its 'nose', before running his gloved hand down to its steak-knife teeth. "Marvelous."
Enzek:
"Hrm. Shame we can't use it to make a big entrance into wherever the leaders are holding up, but at least we don't have to fight it! Shall we proceed then? Must have been guarding something big."
Castellan:
((Castellan sets up a messy bed and instructs the T-rex to try and make it until they get back.))
Argios the Red:
" ... Perhaps, but I would not deem it wise to have such a creature anywhere near the city proper. Necromancy within the city has been forbidden by an ancient accord, though there have not been any recent laws passed... But, I do not think the Church of Pelor would look favorably upon it." He nodded, glancing behind the large monster. " A possibility. We are heading towards the tunnels guarded by those two that Tia convinced of our innocence. They said it was a treasury, but... we should be wary. "
Castellan:
"Oh, certainly not, Master Argios, not in town... but... to let it go to waste..." He frowned. It was like finding a magic sword, for him! But way better. "Back up," He instructed. "Then sit and wait for further instructions."
Enzek:
"Prob'ly not, but the Church of Pelor ain't here riskin' life and limb to save the town."
Argios the Red:
" Shame on you, Brother Enzek." He stated quite firmly to the gnome who seemed to *DISCARD LAWS*.
Castellan:
("Is that man riding through town on a skeletal T-rex?" "Yes." "...Shouldn't we stop him!?" "Do you really want to try and stop THAT?" )
Aeter (DM):
( Enzek takes -1 to the DC of his spells for the next day )
Castellan:
(Ohhh snaaaaap)
Aeter (DM):
( Basically, until he rests again. )
Enzek:
"I don't think this place falls under our jurisdiction."
Castellan:
(Also I told it to back out of the way and sit down like a good skeleton. )
Erialistia:
Tia took Argios's subtle hint and slid passed the boys, and the skeletal beast, to head for the tunnel with as much stealth as she could muster. « 1d20+10 = 11 + 10 = 21 »
Enzek:
(( Besides wouldn't he know that part of Enzek's job is to use more questionable means to accomplish tasks that the warriors and paladins of the church wouldn't be able to tackle? ))
Argios the Red:
" We are speaking of the city, Master Enzek. This is a matter for a tribunal, not for us to decide. For now, I see no harm in it."
Argios the Red:
( But, 'Who cares what the Church of Pelor thinks? They're not here.' is a distinctly chaotic belief. )
Castellan:
(Truth.)
Castellan:
"Stay here and guard this room until we get back." Castellan ordered, ushering the others to go ahead first, in case losing sight of him would set off Fluffy.
Enzek:
(( It just means he's got a necromancer friend who's actually helping him. Church of Pelor ain't doing shit to help them, so he's got nothing against Castellan using his necromancy to help them accomplish their goals. ))
Castellan:
((But it's still a chaotic statement. ))
Argios the Red:
( That's fine, but St. Cuthbert wouldn't look kindly on that statement, thus the DC penalty. You can gain boons or weaknesses through RP. Rules as Intended! )
Aeter (DM):
Tia peered around the edge of the tunnel... And the stink hit her first. What was a minor scent had now wafted from further on. Sticky pools of congealed fluid lie in depressions on the floor, having drained from several rotting giant spider carcasses that had been pushed against the northwest wall. Roll a perception check, Tia.
Enzekicus Maximus is disconnected.
Castellan Stillwind is disconnected.
Erialistia "Tia" Culnamo is disconnected.
Castellan Stillwind has connected.
Erialistia "Tia" Culnamo has connected.
Enzekicus Maximus has connected.
Castellan Stillwind:
((I'm looking at the big Cauldron map. ))
Erialistia "Tia" Culnamo:
Water stung at her eyes, her lips opened and from the sheer horror and then a hand promptly clasped over it to keep the smell from choking her. She quickly found the need to pull that red bandana from her head and cover her nose and mouth with it, hoping it would relieve some of the stench. A few deep breaths through her mouth and she was once again moving forward in an attempt to scout out what lie ahead.
Castellan Stillwind:
((Better move your guys up or I'ma let my T-rex eat 'em. ))
Enzekicus Maximus:
Move where? ))
Erialistia:
« 1d20+6 = 8 + 6 = 14 »
Castellan:
"Master Argios, go ahead. He won't bite. I've told him to guard this hall so we're not followed."
Aeter (DM):
Nestled around the corpses were two large humanoid creatures; ogres, by the looks of them.. Yet, their flesh was as rotten and decaying as the spiders that they occasionally feasted upon. More guardians, no doubt.
Erialistia:
Tia's brow furrowed at the sight, unaware of how careless Castellan was being with her attempt at stealth. She sessed out the room, looking to see if there was more than just the two as she inched closer... carefully.
Aeter (DM):
« 1d20 = 14 »
Aeter (DM):
There were only two. The chamber simply could not fit any more. Though, Tia managed to glance beyond to the further chambers. One held additional movement; the sound of chains... and the slight glinting of a metallic chest.
* Enzekicus Maximus studies Tia's movements, trying to determine whether she found something interesting.
Enzek:
(( whoops ))
Castellan:
Castellan waves Argios forward, the T-rex skeleton sitting like a statue.
Erialistia:
(Is he right behind her now?)
Castellan:
(May or may not be grabbing her butt.)
Enzek:
lol ))
Aeter (DM):
( Roll a stealth check, Castellan )
Castellan:
« 1d20+2 = 11 + 2 = 13 »
Aeter (DM):
« 1d20 = 8 »
Castellan:
Castellan peeked around the corner, only able to make out a small glimpse of the shambling creatures within. The smell didn't seem to fuss him any. "More of them... Perhaps Nerull's follower in this Ebon Triad raised them." He whispered, thinking aloud.
Argios the Red:
Argios slid past the large skeletal creature to glance beyond. His nose immediately wrinkled over his grey beard, causing him to shift uncomfortably in his armor. "Caught between the hammer and anvil. Do we attack, or stay back?"
Castellan:
"I've enough power to take one... we can use it to kill the other."
Enzek:
"Take 'em out before they can hurt innocents, I say."
Castellan:
"Certainly can't leave them at the whim of Nerull's flock." The idea of leaving them in the Reaper's care certainly made his nose wrinkle, if the smell did not.
* Enzek raises his crossbow, waiting for the word on his comrades to attack.
Erialistia:
Tia frowned at their talking and inched closer to the other side of the cavern, just out of sight or so she hoped. Least if they grabbed the attention of the beasts, Tia wouldn't be in the charge range.
Argios the Red:
" Very well... To battle, then." (Roll initiative!)
Enzek:
Initiative: « 1d20+1 = 8 + 1 = 9 »
Castellan:
« 1d20+1 = 10 + 1 = 11 »
Castellan:
("What's initiative?" "It determines what order we go in." "Oh. I punch the initiative!" )
Argios the Red:
« 1d20+1 = 8 + 1 = 9 »
Enzek:
rofl ))
Argios the Red:
[Enzek, reroll against me.
Argios the Red:
« 1d20+1 = 11 + 1 = 12 »
Enzek:
« 1d20+1 = 5 + 1 = 6 »
Erialistia:
Initiative: « 1d20+8 = 1 + 8 = 9 »
Aeter (DM):
« 1d20-2 = 1 - 2 = -1 »« 1d20-2 = 7 - 2 = 5 »
Erialistia has received initiative.
Castellan has received initiative.
Erialistia:
(Oh good. BRB for 30 minutes plotting my attack.)
Enzek:
(( It's like they're slower than time itself. ))
Castellan:
Castellan had his plan made up. He stepped around the corner, mouthing the words to the same spell that had enthralled the T-rex. Command Undead on Ogre 1!
Castellan:
(Actually, Ogre 2, I see him better. )
Aeter (DM):
( Zombies are mindless: Command Undead successful. )
Castellan:
"Fight the ogre!" He ordered the monstrosity, pointing at its intended target. (End turn!)
Erialistia has received initiative.
Enzek:
(( Castellan catches Zombie Ogre! Give a name to Zombie Ogre? ))
Castellan:
((T-rex is fluffy, ogre is Uncle Fester. ))
Enzek:
(( Uncle Fester sent to Box 1. ))
Enzek:
(( Pokeromancy is fun. ))
Erialistia:
With the target now chosen, Tia shifted into the shadows, letting them consume her sillouhette as though it didn't exist (Child of Shadow). She moved around the corner as swiftly as she could. Even her dagger seemed made of darkness as she lunged it towards the ogre's body. (Clinging Shadow Strike) « 1d20+8 = 16 + 8 = 24 »
Erialistia:
« 1d6 = 5 »
Erialistia:
« 1d6 = 2 »
Erialistia:
« 1d4+3 = 4 + 3 = 7 »
Aeter (DM):
« 1d20+2 = 8 + 2 = 10 »
Aeter (DM):
Failed will save: Ogre 1 blinded.
Argios the Red has received initiative.
Aeter (DM):
« 1d5 = 4 »« 1d4 = 4 »
Aeter (DM):
Shield Block and Foehammer readied. Argios decided to take his chance, rushing into combat past the two. He stepped past Tia, provoking the attack from the ogre. (AoO)
Aeter (DM):
« 1d20+9 = 14 + 9 = 23 »
Aeter (DM):
Miss Chance: Needs 21+
Aeter (DM):
« 1d100 = 100 »
Aeter (DM):
Hits.
Aeter (DM):
« 2d8+9 = 6 + 9 = 15 »
Aeter (DM):
Argios takes 15 damage.
Castellan:
Better him than me! >.> )
* Enzek cringes. He could hear that crunch from here.
Argios the Red:
Argios was struck square in the abdomen by the large club, yet he did not react. Not yet. His large axe was brought up with a single arm, clenching his teeth as he brought it back down -- Hard. (Foehammer. Furios Counterstrike = +2 to attack/damage.)
Argios the Red:
« 1d20+7 = 11 + 7 = 18 »
Argios the Red:
( 18 hits. )
Argios the Red:
« 1d12+5+2d6 = 11 + 5 + 8 = 24 »
Argios the Red:
Argios deals 24 DR-overcoming damage.
Enzek has received initiative.
* Enzek moves into a good vantage point to attack.
* Enzek points his crossbow at the ogre they're currently fighting, takes careful aim, and...
Enzek:
« 1d20+5 = 13 + 5 = 18 »
Argios the Red:
Hits.
Enzek:
« 1d3 = 1 »
Aeter (DM):
The bolt sticks into ogre flesh like a pincushion. (DR 5/slashing. No damage.)
* Enzek frowns, the bolt having no seeming effect.
Enzek:
(End turn)
Zombie Ogre 2:
The second ogre had his commands. He lifted his club in both hands, using that reach to bring it down on his companion's head.
Zombie Ogre 2:
( Flanking )
Zombie Ogre 2:
« 1d20+11 = 10 + 11 = 21 »
Zombie Ogre 2:
« 2d8+9 = 11 + 9 = 20 »
Zombie Ogre 1:
The Ogre Zombie, which nearly fell apart under the contact, raged. It lashed out in multiple directions, one club flying for its companion while Tia recieved a harsh ogre backhand.
Zombie Ogre 1:
« 1d20+9 = 3 + 9 = 12 »« 1d20+9 = 15 + 9 = 24 »
Zombie Ogre 1:
Tia is hit by the ogre backhand!
Zombie Ogre 1:
« 1d8+9 = 1 + 9 = 10 »
Zombie Ogre 1:
Tia takes 10 damage.
Castellan has received initiative.
Castellan:
CHRIS BROWN'D.
Erialistia:
Suddenly, a Tia goes flying back into the cavern wall behind her with a loud thud.
Castellan:
Castellan tried getting closer, finding himself at a loss for what he could do now. Most of his magic would strengthen the vile thing, not fell it. Tia took that rough blow as he passed, his hand drawing gleaming silver from his sash - though his approach may have left him open to the ogre. (Not sure if I provoke, but I move here.)
Castellan:
It's a new round so I most likely do. :x)
Aeter (DM):
( You do )
Aeter (DM):
« 1d20+9 = 17 + 9 = 26 »
Castellan:
Argh my butt )
Aeter (DM):
BIFF!
Aeter (DM):
« 2d8+9 = 11 + 9 = 20 »
Aeter (DM):
18 damage to Castellan.
Enzek:
Jesus... ))
Castellan:
Castellan felt the wind leave him as that club connected with his middle, but not one to take it unanswered, he flailed back with his silver dagger. « 1d20+2 = 15 + 2 = 17 »
Aeter (DM):
Hit.
Castellan:
« 1d4-2 = 4 - 2 = 2 »
Castellan:
2 slashing! )
Aeter (DM):
The zombie fell upon the ogres, that last blow finally taking him to his true death.
Aeter (DM):
er
Aeter (DM):
upon the spiders.
Aeter (DM):
Combat over.
Castellan:
xD Did it really only have 2 hp? )
Aeter (DM):
( Yes. )
Castellan:
FEEBLE DAGGER FTW)
Castellan:
Castellan coughed as he sank to his knees, unaware that the ogre fell into a fleshy heap as he did. "Goddess, that... oogh..."
* Enzek rushes in, seeing the ogre falling. He looks to his comrades, checking to see if they're okay.
Enzek:
(( Hrm, thing is I don't remember how much Channel Energy I've used this game. ))
Argios the Red:
( Once since they entered. )
Enzek:
(( Thanks, sorry 'bout that. I'll keep better track next time. ))
Argios the Red:
" That... was far more painful than it should have been." He winced, cursing his own lack of tact as he reached into the pouch under his cloak, grabbing a potion and guzzling it down. (Cure Moderate Wounds!)
Argios the Red:
« 2d8+3 = 10 + 3 = 13 »
* Enzek notices Argios has his own health covered, and that Castellan's dark magic can put himself back together. He looks now to Tia, approaching her and using his last bit of inner energy to mend her up a bit. Channel Energy « 2d6 = 7 »
Aeter (DM):
( 7 HP healed to Tia. )
Castellan:
"At least it was only the one?" Castellan wheezed as he got up, finally looking at the felled ogre. His desperate swipe, while enfeebled by his blood loss earlier, had severed the right bit of tissue, given that it was now a pile of gore before them. He rubbed his tender ribs, steadily channeling his dark power to mend himself.
Erialistia:
"... Castellan, do you want to do the honors of searching it?" she muttered with a drunken-esk slurr. "Thank you," she offered to Enzek with a tired smile, thankful for his assistance.
Aeter (DM):
Down the passageway to your left is an open tunnel, the chamber seemingly empty. To the right, however... Vivid light shone from within.
Aeter (DM):
( Need a quick AFK. Bio. )
Castellan:
"I'll need a few minutes first..." He looked at the other one. "Sit, stay."
Erialistia:
(WHEN YOU GET BACK. TIA SAW A CHEST.)
Castellan:
I saw Tia's chest. Epic, 10/10 would see again. )
* Enzek approaches the ogre, studying it for a moment. "Castellan, how long does this thing of yours last?"
Castellan:
"Four days, give or take an hour."
Castellan:
He eyed the grotesque survivor. "Zombies are... less subtle. Their stench can often give them away, even when buried and hidden. They're quite slothful, as well. I wonder how he got them in here." He pointed to the obviously too small exits. "At least the skeleton could be brought in piecemeal."
Enzek:
"Hm. Long enough to use it for this mission."
Enzek:
"Eh, it's a big meatwall to throw at them, at the very least. Teach them to dabble in such things!"
Castellan:
"If we can get it out of the room."
* Enzek glances down at the passageways behind the ogre. "Hrm. Yeah, good point..."
Aeter (DM):
( Back )
Castellan:
WB! )
Enzek:
(( WB! ))
Castellan:
Now that he was all fixed up, Castellan took a moment to poke through the meaty remains of... well, everything. The spiders, the dead ogre, and the one that was still groaning and drooling. It was all nasty, but he didn't seem fussed.
Castellan:
Searchin'! « 1d20+2 = 1 + 2 = 3 »
Castellan:
;-; Why am I so bad at rng qqqqqq ))
Aeter (DM):
Really, all there seemed to be were spiders and dead ogres. Anything valuable here must have been moved out long ago.
* Enzek skirts around the ogre and looks down toward one of the passageways.
Castellan:
"Stay put," He said, though it likely wasn't to Enzek. He gave the remaining zombie a firm look, before looking into that lit passage.
Aeter (DM):
The passageway Enzek looked down was utterly empty, aside from the passage further down. The other, which Tia likely saw something on was a cave that glittered and glowed; the volcanic rock here has formed millions of tiny black and red crystals that catch the light from a continual flame near the door and reflect it back a millionfold. The one thing that doesn't glitter is a large slab of dull black stone in the center of the room. that had been painstakingly carved and crafted into a large, ornate chest... But, that wasn't all that was on the chest. Two humanoids that looked to be dwarves had been chained to the slab. However, they peered at the two with empty eyes; small worms skittering over their flesh. One odd worm seemed to crawl from the eye socket of a dwarf, almost... *looking* at the party.
* Enzek loses interested in that passage and steps into this room.
Enzek:
interest*
* Enzek covers his mouth and narrows his eyes at the grisly sight of two dead-looking dwarves.
Castellan:
(What kind of check to ID them? )
Aeter (DM):
( Religion. )
Castellan:
Castellan gets a creeping feeling as he sees the worm-ridden Dwarves. « 1d20+6 = 5 + 6 = 11 »
Enzek:
Religion: « 1d20+3 = 17 + 3 = 20 »
Enzek:
(( I forget, can you spontaneously convert spells from your domain slots? ))
Aeter (DM):
Oh, Enzek had heard this story. The Leprous Chronicles tell of the Age of Worms and the final days before squirming legions annihilate the living. Scribed by the prophet Corbius, who dwelled in seclusion on the Island of Fear, the legend holds that the world will be devoured by an endless hunger, and all that lives shall be dead and yet walk the world in twisted, writhing forms. Corbius claimed to have witnessed apocalyptic events revealed to him by a dark angel from the endless heavens. One figure dominates his ravings: Kyuss. These are Sons of Kyuss; living beings infested with the worms. Their very husks had been twisted and morphed into the hungering undead. They were very dangerous, as the worms themselves were parasites.
Enzek:
"Oh, cudgel...guys, these aren't just decaying corpses. Get ready!"
Aeter (DM):
The corpses were chained to the chest. It didn't seem that they could move much from their positions.
Castellan:
"Then what are they? They certainly aren't leaving their charge any time soon."
* Enzek is grateful for his paying attention to his studies during his times at the Temple.
Castellan:
(Age of Worms is another adventure path iirc. )
Aeter (DM):
( Shh, I'm foreshadowing. )
Castellan:
)
Enzek:
"They are the Sons of Kyuss, undead infested with very deadly and hungry worms."
Enzek:
(( Isn't Kyuss an Elder Evil too? ))
Aeter (DM):
( You can roll another Knowledge Religion check, Castellan. +2 bonus for knowing the name. )
Castellan:
« 1d20+6+2 = 1 + 6 + 2 = 9 »
Castellan:
FML )
Aeter (DM):
The name means nothing to you. This sort of prophetic evil obviously wasn't in your studies.
Castellan:
GREAT MODIFIERS
Castellan:
AWFUL LUCK
Erialistia:
"... They're worms. We can just step on them."
Castellan:
STARRING CASTELLAN, FALL 2013
* Enzek studies the movements of the creatures. With them being chained as they are, Enzek hasn't tried to run just yet, but he's being cautious just in case, as he loads another crossbow bolt.
Castellan:
"What if it burrows through your boot and into your foot?"
Erialistia:
"Then I suppose you might get a date with me after all. You'll just be pulling the strings..."
Castellan:
Castellan looks bright for a moment, starting to work his way through Tarkilar's scribbled writings for any mention of Kyuss.
* Enzek thinks carefully on what they should do next.
Castellan:
"Be still my heart, Miss Tia..." He muttered as he flipped through the maddened writings.
Castellan:
"Have you a torch, Master Enzek?"
Enzek:
(( Does Enzek remember any kind of nasty powers/afflictions these guys are capable of? ))
Enzek:
"I've Sunrods and a Light spell at the ready, but no torches."
Castellan:
"Fire may be our best bet..."
Castellan:
((Or unravel the thread holding them together. They're like Boogie Oogie from NMBC, right? )
Enzek:
Lmao ))
Aeter (DM):
These things give of an unnatural chill aura, almost like Castellan does... And they cause horrible diseases of rotten flesh and dementia. The worst part was that each worm was dangerous, and every single one could both kill and turn its host into a mindless undead. A true plague.
Castellan:
"I've an idea."
* Enzek cringes. He knew they needed to get to that chest, but his mind wasn't coming up with options.
Erialistia:
(Put "almost like Castellan does," at the end of every sentence.)
* Enzek looks at Castellan, grateful for those words.
Castellan:
LOL)
Castellan:
"I've a spell that can hide us from their senses."
Erialistia:
Tia leaned against Castellan and murmured into his ear lowly, "Did you consult for these guys?"
Castellan:
He frowned. "I am not nearly so talented... or dastardly, Miss Tia."
Enzek:
"Does it protect from their chill aura, though?"
Castellan:
"It will only mask us from their senses. I will take the risk and approach, if you are afraid."
Enzek:
"No no, nothing like that. Just that I might have something for that one."
Enzek:
(( Protection from Evil would work, right? ))
Castellan:
Castellan waved Argios closer, as he began to cast his spell.
Castellan:
"If you've a ward in mind, Enzek, you'd best cast it first."
Enzek:
"It'll only work on one target."
Argios the Red:
" Very well... Let's see if we can just get to the chest, extract whatever is in it, and get out."
Enzek:
"Ah, hell...I can do it!"
Castellan:
He frowned. "Only one of us. Were my magics to fail, I would not wish to send one of you in with that risk..."
Erialistia:
"As much as I like shiney, I think Castellan is the best lockpick for that chest..."
Enzek:
"I can be pretty sneaky. Block me from their senses once I ward myself from their aura. I can get in and out lickety-split."
Erialistia:
"Not that I know anything about lockpicks.
Castellan:
("Here lies Enzek Pewpewxbow. They put worms in him lickety-split." )
Argios the Red:
" Very well. Cast your protections on Master Enzek, if you can. We will get the chest open and then get out of this gods forsaken place. There was another tunnel to wander down... or, the complex to return to."
Enzek:
(( Don't think I'll survive? ))
Castellan:
"You must take great care not to touch them in any way, Master Enzek. Are you certain of this?"
Enzek:
"Absolutely! Just the chest."
* Enzek closes his eyes, concentrating his magic as a wave of pure evil-warding goodness washes over him. (Casting Protection from Evil)
Aeter (DM):
Protection from Evil cast on Enzek! Any other spells?
Erialistia:
Frowned as Enzek became the one taking the risk. It wasn't that she disliked Castellan, Enzek just looked like a little boy with a beared and she had a soft spot for children.
Castellan:
Castellan nodded, more somber than the confident Gnome. "Goddess preserve you, Master Enzek." He began his spellcraft, touching first Enzek, then Tia, then Argios, and himself. If Enzek wound up infested and turned, well, he wouldn't see them for a few minutes at least."
Aeter (DM):
( What's the spelllll? )
Castellan:
(Hide from Undead cast on four targets.)
Erialistia:
Tia frowned as the 'touch' she was given bordered on accidental groping, still she ignored it as she muttered to him. "If he dies you're telling the wee ones."
Castellan:
Oh hey, that would have also been good for the last two rooms, but I have a pet t-rex and fuck you guys. )
Aeter (DM):
And, just like that, the endless gaze of the infested dwarves shifted. No longer did they look at the group as these new hosts had simply... faded from view.
Castellan:
It's like we put on the One Ring. )
Castellan:
Btw, the Led Zeppelin song Ramble On is about LOTR. )
* Enzek takes a deep breath. "Alright, I'm going in! Get ready to strike if things turn ugly?"
Erialistia:
"Things are already pretty ugly."
* Enzek musters all of the whisper gnome sneakiness that he can as he creeps over toward the chest.
Enzek:
Stealth: « 1d20+9 = 4 + 9 = 13 »
Aeter (DM):
You're hidden from view! No need to be sneaky.
Castellan:
They can't hear, smell, see, or otherwise sense you. )
Enzek:
(( Oh okay. ))
Castellan:
But if you touch them that shit ends immediately. )
* Enzek closes in on the corner of the chest. He kneels down and inspects it a bit before deciding to open. Perception: « 1d20+10 = 11 + 10 = 21 »
Aeter (DM):
Enzek! Just before opening (Perception DC 20, you lucky bastard) you notice an odd sheen coming off of the chest. There was some sort of liquid smeared over it. Better not touch it with your bare hands.
Enzek:
(( Can I make a check on the liquid? ))
Aeter (DM):
( Sure. )
Enzek:
(( Nature I'm guessing, or Dungeoneering? ))
Aeter (DM):
( Nature )
Enzek:
« 1d20+3 = 6 + 3 = 9 »
Aeter (DM):
It was a poison. What kind you could not tell, but it seemed to effect the flesh. Tia might find use in a scraping of it.
Enzek:
(( How much of the chest is it covering? ))
Castellan:
Who seriously doesn't wear gloves when they go out adventuring? Noobs! ))
Aeter (DM):
All of it.
* Enzek ,having been smart enough to bring his gloves, carefully reaches toward the lid of the chest, grabs hold, and attempts to lift it open."
Aeter (DM):
Within were a series of sacks, each one laden with coin! You apparently found the treasury.
* Enzek 's eyes widen as he discovers the treasure. He swiftly opens his pack and begins stuffing as much of it as he can into it.
Aeter (DM):
The treasure was too much to count at the moment, but it would take a good portion of your bag space to carry them all. All the same, your excursion has just been funded. Tia as well had gained a bit of new poison to play with. In the end, this branch of the caverns was not a complete waste of time... However, there was still much to explore. The gnoll necromancer that had been responsible for these undead beings was still in the caverns, and there were two more leaders of the Ebon Triad to go. It seemed that this journey was just getting started.
Aeter (DM):
( End for the night. Time played is 3 hours. Next play date will likely be next Monday if we are available. )