[Game Thread] Master of the Fallen Fortress

[Noquarter19]

Gilda Gemdelver There would be time for pride in her brothers and tears for her sister later. Gilda blinked her eyes twice to try to clear her vision and saw that there remained only one dog still conscious. She snarled back at the beast and swung her pick with vs Dog 2 Dice * Attack (mining pick): 1d20+2 (17)+2 Total = 19 Dice * Damage: 1d6+2 (6)+2 Total = 8 vicious intent, the rust-spotted steel penetrating through the dog’s skull and pinning it to the ground. Blood sprayed out with a disgusting splash and Gilda, seeing what she had done, turned away from the carnage and hurried away off the path to quietly vomit. She staggered back a few paces, stumbled, and fell to the earth with a metallic plop. Her mouth tasted of bile and bacon, and she was shuddering in revulsion and sorrow. I- I’ve never killed anything before… She knew she should get up, knew she should go try to heal Anja… but the key that was still in her left hand seemed to go cold, and she knew that whatever light had been in Anja had winked out. The end had come quickly, and Gilda had never felt so useless. She shut her eyes and tried to catch her breath as acid-hot tears flowed down her cheeks, while the occasional drop of dog blood dripped from her armor onto the cold ground. I want to go home.   Standard Action: Attack with pick of 19, for 8 damage on remaining dog. Looks like insta-kill Swift Action: Free Action: Move Action: Ammunition: Crossbow bolts x25 3 + WIS mod + ½ uses per dayAcid Darts: 7/7 available (1d6 treated as 1 level higher – from Stonesinger+1) 3 + WIS mod uses per dayResistant Touch: 7/7 available Spell Slots: 1 1 D Inspired: Available for today Stat Block Gilda Gemdelver Cleric 1 Hit Points: 10/10| AC: 10 +7 (armor) +1 (shield). Bonus +4 AC dodge bonus vs monsters of the giant subtype18 | Speed: Slow and Steady: speed not affected by armor or encumbrance20 | Initiative: +0 Hardy: +2 racial bonus on saves against poison, spells, and spell-like abilitiesSaves: Fort +5 | Reflex +1 | Will +7 STR 15 (+2) DEX 11 (+0) CON 15 (+2) INT 11 (+0) WIS 18 (+4) CHA 13 (+1) Hatred: +1 to attacks vs orc and goblinoid subtypesAttacks: Melee BAB +2 | Ranged BAB +0 | Combat Maneuver Bonus +2 | Stability: +4 to bull rush or trip attempts while standing on the groundCombat Maneuver Defense +12 Weapons: Heavy Pick. Crit x4 Papa’s Mining Pick +2, 1d6+2 | Range 80 ft, crit 19-20/x2Light Crossbow +0, 1d8 Spell Save DC: Level 115 | Spells Slots 1st: 2+Domain1 Cantrips: | Casting Time 1 standard action Components V, S Effect Range 60 ft. Area cone-shaped emanation Duration concentration, up to 1 min./level (D) Saving Throw none; Spell Resistance no Description You detect magical auras. The amount of information revealed depends on how long you study a particular area or subject. 1st Round: Presence or absence of magical auras. 2nd Round: Number of different magical auras and the power of the most potent aura. 3rd Round: The strength and location of each aura. If the items or creatures bearing the auras are in line of sight, you can make Knowledge (arcana) skill checks to determine the school of magic involved in each. (Make one check per aura: DC 15 + spell level, or 15 + 1/2 caster level for a nonspell effect.) If the aura eminates from a magic item, you can attempt to identify its properties (see Spellcraft). Magical areas, multiple types of magic, or strong local magical emanations may distort or conceal weaker auras. Aura Strength: An aura's power depends on a spell's functioning spell level or an item's caster level; see the accompanying table. If an aura falls into more than one category, detect magic indicates the stronger of the two. Lingering Aura: A magical aura lingers after its original source dissipates (in the case of a spell) or is destroyed (in the case of a magic item). If detect magic is cast and directed at such a location, the spell indicates an aura strength of dim (even weaker than a faint aura). How long the aura lingers at this dim level depends on its original power: Original Strength | Duration of Lingering Aura Faint |1d6 rounds Moderate | 1d6 minutes Strong | 1d6 x 10 minutes Overwhelming | 1d6 days Outsiders and elementals are not magical in themselves, but if they are summoned, the conjuration spell registers. Each round, you can turn to detect magic in a new area. The spell can penetrate barriers, but 1 foot of stone, 1 inch of common metal, a thin sheet of lead, or 3 feet of wood or dirt blocks it. Detect magic can be made permanent with a permanency spell. Spell or Object |Aura Power |Faint | Moderate | Strong | Overwhelming Functioning spell (spell level) | 3rd or lower |4th-6th| 7th-9th |10th+ (deity-level) Magic item (caster level) |5th or lower |6th-11th |12th-20th |21st+ (artifact) Detect Magic (Link) | Casting Time 1 standard action Components V, S Effect Range touch Target creature touched Duration 1 minute or until discharged Saving Throw Will negates (harmless); Spell Resistance yes Description This spell imbues the subject with a touch of divine guidance. The creature gets a +1 competence bonus on a single attack roll, saving throw, or skill check. It must choose to use the bonus before making the roll to which it applies. Guidance (Link) | Casting Time 1 standard action Components V, M/DF (a firefly) Effect Range touch Target object touched Duration 10 min./level Saving Throw none; Spell Resistance no Description This spell causes a touched object to glow like a torch, shedding normal light in a 20-foot radius, and increasing the light level for an additional 20 feet by one step, up to normal light (darkness becomes dim light, and dim light becomes normal light). In an area of normal or bright light, this spell has no effect. The effect is immobile, but it can be cast on a movable object. You can only have one light spell active at any one time. If you cast this spell while another casting is still in effect, the previous casting is dispelled. If you make this spell permanent (through permanency or a similar effect), it does not count against this limit. Light can be used to counter or dispel any darkness spell of equal or lower spell level. Light (Link) 1st Level: | Source: Player's Handbook Casting Time 1 standard action Components V, S, DF Effect Range 50 ft. Area The caster and all allies within a 50-ft. burst, centered on the caster Duration 1 min./level Saving Throw none; Spell Resistance yes (harmless) Description Bless fills your allies with courage. Each ally gains a +1 morale bonus on attack rolls and on saving throws against fear effects. Bless counters and dispels bane. Bless (Link) | Casting Time 1 standard action Components V, S, DF Effect Range touch Target weapon touched Duration 1 min./level Saving Throw Will negates (harmless, object); Spell Resistance yes (harmless, object) Description Magic weapon gives a weapon a +1 enhancement bonus on attack and damage rolls. An enhancement bonus does not stack with a masterwork weapon's +1 bonus on attack rolls. You can't cast this spell on a natural weapon, such as an unarmed strike (instead, see magic fang). A monk's unarmed strike is considered a weapon, and thus it can be enhanced by this spell. Magic Weapon (Link) | D: Casting Time 1 standard action Components V, S, DF Effect Range touch Target creature touched Duration 1 round/level Saving Throw Will negates; Spell Resistance no Description Any opponent attempting to directly attack the warded creature, even with a targeted spell, must attempt a Will save. If the save succeeds, the opponent can attack normally and is unaffected by that casting of the spell. If the save fails, the opponent can't follow through with the attack, that part of its action is lost, and it can't directly attack the warded creature for the duration of the spell. Those not attempting to attack the subject remain unaffected. This spell does not prevent the warded creature from being attacked or affected by area of effect spells. The subject cannot attack without breaking the spell but may use nonattack spells or otherwise act. Sanctuary (Link) Skills: Heal +8 | Linguistics + 4 | Perception +4 | Profession (Jewelcrafting) +8 | Sense Motive + 8 | Skill Mod Skill Mod Acrobatics -8 (AC pen) Knowledge (Local) +0 Appraise +0 Knowledge (Nature) +0 Bluff +1 Knowledge (Nobility) +0 Climb -6 (AC pen) Knowledge (Religion) +0 Craft +1 Knowledge (The Planes) +0 Diplomacy +0 Linguistics +4 Disable Device -8 (AC pen) Perception +4 Disguise +1 Perform +1 Escape Artist -8 (AC pen) Profession (jewelcrafting) +8 Fly -8 (AC pen) Ride -8 (AC pen) Handle Animal +1 Sense Motive +8 Heal +8 Sleight of Hand -8 (AC pen) Intimidate +1 Spellcraft +0 Knowledge (Arcana) +0 Stealth +0 (+3 LL) Knowledge (Dungeoneering) +0 Survival +4 Knowledge (Engineering) +0 Swim -6 (AC pen) Knowledge (Geography) +0 Use Magic Device +1 Knowledge (History) +0     Skills Table Race/Class Abilities, Feats, etc. (Earth Domain) As a standard action, you can unleash an acid dart targeting any foe within 30 feet as a ranged touch attack. This acid dart deals 1d6 points of acid damage + 1 point for every two cleric levels you possess. You can use this ability a number of times per day equal to 3 + your Wisdom modifier. Acid Dart | (Earth Domain) At 6th level, you gain resist acid 10. This resistance increases to 20 at 12th level. At 20th level, you gain immunity to acid. (Acid Resistance) | (class) A cleric of a chaotic, evil, good, or lawful deity has a particularly powerful aura corresponding to the deity's alignment (see the detect evil spell for details). Aura | (Protection Domain) At 8th level, you can emit a 30-foot aura of protection for a number of rounds per day equal to your cleric level. You and your allies within this aura gain a +1 deflection bonus to AC and resistance 5 against all elements (acid, cold, electricity, fire, and sonic). The deflection bonus increases by +1 for every four cleric levels you possess beyond 8th. At 14th level, the resistance against all elements increases to 10. These rounds do not need to be consecutive. (Aura of Protection) | (class) Regardless of alignment, any cleric can release a wave of energy by channeling the power of her faith through her holy (or unholy) symbol. This energy can be used to cause or heal damage, depending on the type of energy channeled and the creatures targeted. A good cleric (or one who worships a good deity) channels positive energy and can choose to deal damage to undead creatures or to heal living creatures. An evil cleric (or one who worships an evil deity) channels negative energy and can choose to deal damage to living creatures or to heal undead creatures. A neutral cleric who worships a neutral deity (or one who is not devoted to a particular deity) must choose whether she channels positive or negative energy. Once this choice is made, it cannot be reversed. This decision also determines whether the cleric casts spontaneous cure or inflict spells (see spontaneous casting). Channeling energy causes a burst that affects all creatures of one type (either undead or living) in a 30-foot radius centered on the cleric. The amount of damage dealt or healed is equal to 1d6 points of damage plus 1d6 points of damage for every two cleric levels beyond 1st (2d6 at 3rd, 3d6 at 5th, and so on). Creatures that take damage from channeled energy receive a Will save to halve the damage. The DC of this save is equal to 10 + 1/2 the cleric's level + the cleric's Charisma modifier. Creatures healed by channeled energy cannot exceed their maximum hit point total - all excess healing is lost. A cleric may channel energy a number of times per day equal to 3 + her Charisma modifier. This is a standard action that does not provoke an attack of opportunity. A cleric can choose whether or not to include herself in this effect. A cleric must be able to present her holy symbol to use this ability. Channel Energy | (class) A cleric can't cast spells of an alignment opposed to her own or her deity's (if she has one). Spells associated with particular alignments are indicated by the chaotic, evil, good, and lawful descriptors in their spell descriptions. Chaotic, Evil, Good and Lawful Spells | (racial) Dwarves can see in the dark up to 60 feet. Darkvision (racial) Dwarves get a +4 dodge bonus to their AC against monsters of the giant subtype. Defensive Training | (class) A cleric's deity influences her alignment, what magic she can perform, her values, and how others see her. A cleric chooses two domains from among those belonging to her deity. A cleric can select an alignment domain (Chaos, Evil, Good, or Law) only if her alignment matches that domain. If a cleric is not devoted to a particular deity, she still selects two domains to represent her spiritual inclinations and abilities (subject to GM approval). The restriction on alignment domains still applies.Each domain grants a number of domain powers, dependent upon the level of the cleric, as well as a number of bonus spells. A cleric gains one domain spell slot for each level of cleric spell she can cast, from 1st on up. Each day, a cleric can prepare one of the spells from her two domains in that slot. If a domain spell is not on the cleric spell list, a cleric can prepare it only in her domain spell slot. Domain spells cannot be used to cast spells spontaneously. In addition, a cleric gains the listed powers from both of her domains, if she is of a high enough level. Unless otherwise noted, using a domain power is a standard action. Domains | (racial) Cleric: Select one domain power granted at 1st level that is normally usable a number of times per day equal to 3 + the cleric's Wisdom modifier. The cleric adds +1/2 to the number of uses per day of that domain power. (Acid Dart) Favored Class Option | (Earth Domain) You have mastery over earth, metal, and stone, can fire darts of acid, and command earth creatures. (Protection Domain) Your faith is your greatest source of protection, and you can use that faith to defend others. In addition, you receive a +1 resistance bonus on saving throws. This bonus increases by 1 for every 5 levels you possess. Granted Powers | (racial) Dwarves receive a +2 racial bonus on Appraise checks made to determine the price of nonmagical goods that contain precious metals or gemstones. Greed | (racial) Dwarves receive a +2 racial bonus on saving throws against poison, spells, and spell-like abilities. Hardy | (racial) Dwarves receive a +1 bonus on attack rolls against humanoid creatures of the orc and goblinoid subtypes because of their special training against these hated foes. Hatred | (trait)You automatically stabilize when reduced below 0 hit points. Once per day when brought below 0 hit points, you can accept 1 point of damage to regain consciousness for 1 round, though you remain staggered and only able to take a single move or standard action. Broken, Not Beaten | (trait) A positive force, philosophy, or divine presence fills you with hope, and is a guiding force of inspiration. Once per day as a free action, roll twice and take the better result on a skill check or ability check. Inspired | (racial) Dwarves begin play speaking Common and Dwarven. Dwarves with high Intelligence scores can choose from the following languages: Giant, Gnome, Goblin, Orc, Terran, and Undercommon. (class) A cleric's bonus language options include Celestial, Abyssal, and Infernal (the languages of good, chaotic evil, and lawful evil outsiders, respectively). These choices are in addition to the bonus languages available to the character because of her race. Languages (class) Clerics can prepare a number of orisons, or 0-level spells, each day, as noted on Table: Cleric under “Spells per Day.” These spells are cast like any other spell, but they are not expended when cast and may be used again. Orisons | (Protection Domain) As a standard action, you can touch an ally to grant him your resistance bonus for 1 minute. When you use this ability, you lose your resistance bonus granted by the Protection domain for 1 minute. You can use this ability a number of times per day equal to 3 + your Wisdom modifier. Resistant Touch | (racial) Dwarves have a base speed of 20 feet, but their speed is never modified by armor or encumbrance. Slow and Steady | (class) A cleric casts divine spells which are drawn from the cleric spell list presented in Spell Lists. Her alignment, however, may restrict her from casting certain spells opposed to her moral or ethical beliefs; see chaotic, evil, good, and lawful spells. A cleric must choose and prepare her spells in advance. To prepare or cast a spell, a cleric must have a Wisdom score equal to at least 10 + the spell level. The Difficulty Class for a saving throw against a cleric's spell is 10 + the spell level + the cleric's Wisdom modifier. Like other spellcasters, a cleric can cast only a certain number of spells of each spell level per day. Her base daily spell allotment is given on Table: Cleric. In addition, she receives bonus spells per day if she has a high Wisdom score (see Table: Ability Modifiers and Bonus Spells). Clerics meditate or pray for their spells. Each cleric must choose a time when she must spend 1 hour each day in quiet contemplation or supplication to regain her daily allotment of spells. A cleric may prepare and cast any spell on the cleric spell list, provided that she can cast spells of that level, but she must choose which spells to prepare during her daily meditation. Spells | (class) A good cleric (or a neutral cleric of a good deity) can channel stored spell energy into healing spells that she did not prepare ahead of time. The cleric can “ “lose” any prepared spell that is not an orison or domain spell in order to cast any cure spell of the same spell level or lower (a cure spell is any spell with “cure” in its name). An evil cleric (or a neutral cleric who worships an evil deity) can't convert prepared spells to cure spells but can convert them to inflict spells (an inflict spell is one with “inflict” in its name). A cleric who is neither good nor evil and whose deity is neither good nor evil can convert spells to either cure spells or inflict spells (player's choice). Once the player makes this choice, it cannot be reversed. This choice also determines whether the cleric channels positive or negative energy (see Channel Energy). Spontaneous Casting | (racial) Dwarves receive a +4 racial bonus to their Combat Maneuver Defense when resisting a bull rush or trip attempt while standing on the ground. Stability | (racial) Some dwarves’ affinity for the earth grants them greater powers. Dwarves with this racial trait are treated as one level higher when casting spells with the earth descriptor or using granted powers of the Earth domain, the bloodline powers of the deep earth bloodline or earth elemental bloodline, and revelations of the oracle’s stone mystery. This ability does not give them early access to level-based powers; it only affects the powers they could use without this ability. This racial trait replaces stonecunning. Stonesinger | Weapon Familiarity: (racial) Dwarves are prof icient with battleaxes, heavy picks, and warhammers, and treat any weapon with the word “dwarven” in its name as a martial weapon. Armor Proficiency, Heavy: (feat) You are skilled at wearing heavy armor. (class) Clerics are proficient with all simple weapons, light armor, medium armor, and shields (except tower shields). Clerics are also proficient with the favored weapon of their deity. (crossbow) Weapon and Armor Proficiencies Languages: | Common | Dwarvish | Elvish |   Equipment Backpack (mwk) Bedroll Blanket Canvas Chalk Compass Explorer’s Outfit Flint and Steel Grappling hook (common) Hammer Pouch, belt Rope (silk), 92 feet Signal whistle Skillet sieve Trail rations, 5 days Waterskin Scroll of CLW x3

[Brian]

Argonar With the last dog falling in a brutal fashion, Argonar almost joined Gilda in vomiting up breakfast, but he managed to hold it down. He rushed to Anja's side, relieved to see the girl still breathing. He considered telling Gilda, but decided to let her have a moment to herself. He moved to the dog he had hit. Though he had pulled his hits, there is only so much damage a body can take. He tried to ease the dog, and move it into a position where it could Heal Check 16, stabilizedbreathe more comfortably and then moved to the dog Anja had clawed, Heal Check 17, stabilizedbinding its wounds and then moved to CMB 22tie up the human. At the final dog, there was no hope of healing its destroyed head. To spare Gilda from doing so, he pulled the pick free, wiping the weapon clean on the ground. he touched the fur of the deceased dog's side softly, whispering quietly "You were very brave, rest well." He knelt beside Gilda, laying her pick beside her and keeping his bleeding arm out of view. He stroked her hair and said, "Anja is breathing Gilda. I'm sorry, I feel like I've let you all down, we trained so hard, and the very first test pushed us so hard. All we can do is take this as motivation to train even harder, to be better. You've always had the kindest heart of all of us, that's why we need you so much." He left the dwarf girl to her grief for now, and moved to his brothers, clapping Dorin on the shoulder, "That was quite the throw, Dorin. Well done." he also clapped Henry on the shoulder with his other hand, "And it was very brave of you to cover Gilda as you did, also well done." He then moved to Anja, kneeling down, and calling, "Anja, can you hear me?"   Rolls

 

Stat Block Argonar Brawler 1 Hit Points: 12/12| AC: 10 +3 (armor) +2 (dex) +1 (dodge) +1 (deflection)17 | Touch +2 (dex) +1 (dodge) +1 (deflection)14 | FF +3 (armor) +1 (deflection)14 | Speed: 30 | Initiative: +2 Saves: Fort +4 | Reflex +4 | Will +1 STR 16 (+3) DEX 14 (+2) CON 14 (+2) INT 12 (+1) WIS 12 (+1) CHA 11 (+0) Attacks: Melee BAB +4 | Ranged BAB +3 | Combat Maneuver Bonus +4 | Combat Maneuver Defense +18 Weapons: +4, 1d6+3; x2Unarmed Strike | +3, 1d8; 19-20 x2; 80'Light Crossbow | +4, 1d4+3; x3Punching Dagger Martial Flexibility: 4/day, move action to gain the use of a combat feat he doesn't have. Must meet all prerequisits for the feat; lasts one minute. Martial Flexibility Uses (Per Day) | O | O | O | O Skills: +2 (dex) +1 (rank) +3 (class skill) -1 (ACP)Acrobatics +5 | +3 (str) +1 (rank) +3 (class skill) +2 (athletics) -1 (ACP)Climb +8 | +1 (rank) +3 (class skill)Handle Animal +4 | +1 (int) +1 (rank) +3 (class skill)Kn: Dungeoneering +5 | +1 (int) +1 (rank)Kn: Religion +2 | +1 (int) +1 (rank) +3 (class skill)Lore (Athletic Competitions) +5 | +1 (wis) +1 (rank) +3 (class skill)Perception +5 | +2 (dex) +1 (rank) +3 (class skill)Stealth +6 | +3 (str) +1 (rank) +3 (class skill) +2 (athletics) -1 (ACP)Swim +8 Languages Common, Dwarven, Drow Sign Language

 

Equipment
Backpack (mwk)	Bedroll
Chalk x2	Grappling Hook (Common)
Explorer’s Outfit	Flint and Steel
Pouch, belt (20 gold)	Rope (silk), 50'
Signal whistle	Small Steel Mirror
Trail rations, 5 days	Waterskin
Scroll of CLW	Scroll of Cloak of Secrets
Scroll of Expeditious Retreat	Torch x2
Scroll Case x2	Insignia of House Ejlvajn
Total Carried Weight (Including Armor and weapons)	67lbs

[Sorcerious]

Dorin As soon as the final dog was down for the count Dorin ran up to Anja's side to help. How he could help he was not sure as he could not raise the dead and he only really knew the basic's of wound care. Maybe I can hold something or run to the cart and fetch medicine? Did the cart stop running? he thought to himself as his short legs quickly closed the small distance. He was visibly relieved to see Anja still breathing and all his concern left him, of course she would be ok. "She is breathing! Good job Gilda, you must have caught her just in time, that is a nasty looking wound." he proclaimed loudly. "Thanks!" Dorin replied proudly to Argonar's compliment. "You were pretty amazing out there too. Your fist's are like hammers, maybe I can get you to punch some steel into shape for me when we get back home" he said jokingly. "Actually we all did pretty good, if not for that lucky shot I would say our first encounter went pretty well, yay team!" Dorin realized the others were paying more attention to the injured Anja and quietly stepped back to allow his more medically inclined siblings take care of her. His adrenaline had not quite worn off yet and he was aware he could be a bit too enthusiastic when he got excited. He looked around trying to see where the man came from but did not wander from his spot.

[Amarga]

Henry Henry was feeling, somewhat useless. He hadn't done much but flail around ineffectively. Gilda had saved Anja, thank the gods for that, her and the others had also done all of the actual work of making the area safe again. The thief let out a breath he hadn't known he was holding when the others confirmed that Anja was alive. Of course she was! Gilda was dependable. Henry forced a thin grin and stepped forwards to the others, clapping Dorin on the back and complimenting him as he watched the medically inclined siblings at work, "Nice shot Dor!" Dorin had always been sturdy, and Henry was glad for it, he did his best to feed off of the dwarf's enthusiasm. He saw Argonar tending to the wounded enemies and felt a flare of anger that surprised him. He quickly sheathed his sword, not trusting himself with it out right now, and clenched his fists to stop them from shaking. He was never going to be caught off guard like that again, not ever.

[Sorcerious]

Dorin Dorin looked over his shoulder at his stealthy sibling "Glad we didn't have to hunt down that fiance of hers with bad news eh Henry?" he said with an amused smile.

[Amarga]

Henry Dorin's jest put a genuine smile on Dorin's face. Henry tapped his fancy belt buckle, emblazoned with the sigil of an obscure house, and said, "Very happy, I'd hate to have to give this back!"

[Icereach]

And then there were four... For the first time in their short lives, the Foundlings had shed blood upon the cobbles with no mentor in sight. Though ambushed, they fought well and bravely, in the end overcoming their assailants with sheer force and no little bit of mercy. Their victory did not come without cost, however. Despite Gilda's tears and Argonar's gentle queries, Anja measured her length across the ground and lay still. Though warm and breathing, no sense of self stirred within her seemingly whole form. If she dreamed, she did so in silence. Two of the three downed animals seemed likely to survive thanks to brawler's surprisingly tender ministrations. The less decimated of the two protested weakly at the strange hands seeing to its injuries but soon it dropped unconscious, just like its packmate. Returned to normal size -which was, in truth, of a size with Henry- the brigand proved no obstacle to tie up in his senseless state. Before long there was little left to do but process and proceed - whatever that may look like. McGee, it seemed, had managed to corral her two flighty mules at some point right as the fight concluded. The Donkrell hadn't managed to go far in the few minutes since their antagonist had first appeared, whispering in Argonar's ear, right before the world blinked... But anyone with even a passing understanding of such contraptions might be surprised at how far it did manage. The small girl in her oafishly large cabby was already rounding the corner by the time Dorrin and Henry managed to find some small comfort in their shared tragedy.

Or were there? As fate would have it, the Foundlings would not be left alone to their grief. While McGee approached from the road, another figure suddenly found itself invading on the solemn moment. Covered in what appeared to be years of dust and painfully unsteady on her feet, a young woman stumbled from the massive rent in the siege tower wall and lurched in the direction of the small group...

---

Direction So. You've got two unconscious dogs and a KO'd prisoner. I'll roll against the restraints if/when he wakes up, but for now he's fine where he is. You've got roughly two hours before that happens and he poses a potential threat again. McGee and the Donkrell are back, though not quite within easy speaking range just yet. Anja lives but she's completely non-responsive and you probably don't want to leave her body unattended for too terribly long. So there's no confusion at the table, the young woman stumbling towards the group is Z's character. I figured it was better to let him do the work of describing her. You've got quite a few options at this point, but the story progresses when you all are ready to move on to the tower.

---

Loot 110xp /ea (A cursory glance over your downed opponents reveals the man possesses very little and the dogs, nothing at all.) Leather armor Short sword Potion of Cure Light Wounds (CL1) x1 Gold piece x10

[Brian]

Argonar Argonar ceased trying to rouse Anja, whatever was going on with her was beyond his knowledge, he was just grateful she still breathed. He was heartened to hear Dorin make a joke and relieved to hear Henry laugh at it. He was concerned about Gilda, She had always been sensitive and kind, which he was grateful for, but she has also been tough and resilient, and he was waiting for her to bounce back. Anja was their first priority for now, Creyton had said the medallion wasn't worth any of their lives. But perhaps they could send her back to the House with McGee, who he saw driving her wagon back towards them, and not end their first mission in defeat. The form of a young woman approaching from the ruin brought him to his feet, stepping carefully in front of Anja's supine form. Still, he forced a smile and raised an empty hand in greeting towards the woman. "I am Argonar... are you well?"

 

Stat Block Argonar Brawler 1 Hit Points: 12/12| AC: 10 +3 (armor) +2 (dex) +1 (dodge) +1 (deflection)17 | Touch +2 (dex) +1 (dodge) +1 (deflection)14 | FF +3 (armor) +1 (deflection)14 | Speed: 30 | Initiative: +2 Saves: Fort +4 | Reflex +4 | Will +1 STR 16 (+3) DEX 14 (+2) CON 14 (+2) INT 12 (+1) WIS 12 (+1) CHA 11 (+0) Attacks: Melee BAB +4 | Ranged BAB +3 | Combat Maneuver Bonus +4 | Combat Maneuver Defense +18 Weapons: +4, 1d6+3; x2Unarmed Strike | +3, 1d8; 19-20 x2; 80'Light Crossbow | +4, 1d4+3; x3Punching Dagger Martial Flexibility: 4/day, move action to gain the use of a combat feat he doesn't have. Must meet all prerequisits for the feat; lasts one minute. Martial Flexibility Uses (Per Day) | O | O | O | O Skills: +2 (dex) +1 (rank) +3 (class skill) -1 (ACP)Acrobatics +5 | +3 (str) +1 (rank) +3 (class skill) +2 (athletics) -1 (ACP)Climb +8 | +1 (rank) +3 (class skill)Handle Animal +4 | +1 (int) +1 (rank) +3 (class skill)Kn: Dungeoneering +5 | +1 (int) +1 (rank)Kn: Religion +2 | +1 (int) +1 (rank) +3 (class skill)Lore (Athletic Competitions) +5 | +1 (wis) +1 (rank) +3 (class skill)Perception +5 | +2 (dex) +1 (rank) +3 (class skill)Stealth +6 | +3 (str) +1 (rank) +3 (class skill) +2 (athletics) -1 (ACP)Swim +8 Languages Common, Dwarven, Drow Sign Language

 

Equipment
Backpack (mwk)	Bedroll
Chalk x2	Grappling Hook (Common)
Explorer’s Outfit	Flint and Steel
Pouch, belt (20 gold)	Rope (silk), 50'
Signal whistle	Small Steel Mirror
Trail rations, 5 days	Waterskin
Scroll of CLW	Scroll of Cloak of Secrets
Scroll of Expeditious Retreat	Torch x2
Scroll Case x2	Insignia of House Ejlvajn
Total Carried Weight (Including Armor and weapons)	67lbs

[Amarga]

Henry Henry was determined not to be caught off guard again. So when someone new, however their state was, came out of that tower, he had his sword drawn and resting on his shoulder. Henry's guard wavered a bit when he noted the young woman's clearly disoriented approach. He picked up the spare shortsword, but left it in its sheath. The young thief took his place just to the left of Argonar, his grin becoming hard and stony as Argonar greeted the stranger.

[Ziether]

Kah’veil Silverclaw The sensation of motion felt inexplicably odd. The last thing she knew she was working on a job with her foster siblings. They had accomplished their goal and were racing back toward the House when…. Her mind was too cloudy to remember exactly what had happened then, but something told her that it wasn’t good. The tingling sensation in her nerves intensified before starting to abate, only to allow the accumulated dust to reach her nostrils and send her into a ferocious fit of feline sneezing. Her body nearly doubled over as she fought to regain control of her muscles, claws extending and retracting involuntarily, eyes slamming shut and refusing to open. The paroxysms released a cloud of fine particles, temporarily obscuring the newcomer’s form, but then they all settled. Green-rimmed eyes opened, revealing vertical slits that reflexively shifted wider and narrower until they grew accustomed to the level of light. A black-furred creature stood emerged from the gap in the wall, clad in simple breeches and tunic in light earthen tones topped with what would have been a gleaming oiled set of boiled leather armor in a deep mahogany. The eyes flicked from person to person and back again until the creature’s faculties caught up with her body and she leapt back a few paces, landing in a defensive crouch with her claws held prominently in front of her. "Who...who are you? What are your intentions?" Vay was bewildered at her own voice, croaking in contrast to her customary flowing, nearly musical cadence. Things were not as they should be. Her cat eyes narrowed, ignoring everything around her except the active threats of the people. Nothing else mattered in the moment. Getting things to make sense was her first priority. Without moving her hands, Vay felt the weight of her gear, taking stock to ensure that her spellcasting pouches were still in place. She would need to get to the butter if she was to try to flee, or the measure of soot if they could not understand her. "What is happening?" Her head shook from side to side, desperate to regain some semblance of her usual intelligence and wit.

[Brian]

Argonar Is that some kind of cat person? Argonar thought, as some of the dust fell free from the feline female, not that there is anything wrong with that, he added to himself. When she sprang back and presented her claws, Argonar had a momentary pang of grief for how similar the movement was to Anja's. He was careful not to move towards her, simply repeating, "I am Argonar. This is Dorin, Henry, and Gilda. My injured friend here is Anja." We're not looking for trouble, we just want a look inside the ruins there. We've already been attacked once", he says, indicating the dogs and the tied up man, "And would prefer to move on peacefully. I ask again if you are well, you seem disoriented. If we can help, we will, but we do have our own priorities."

 

Stat Block Argonar Brawler 1 Hit Points: 12/12| AC: 10 +3 (armor) +2 (dex) +1 (dodge) +1 (deflection)17 | Touch +2 (dex) +1 (dodge) +1 (deflection)14 | FF +3 (armor) +1 (deflection)14 | Speed: 30 | Initiative: +2 Saves: Fort +4 | Reflex +4 | Will +1 STR 16 (+3) DEX 14 (+2) CON 14 (+2) INT 12 (+1) WIS 12 (+1) CHA 11 (+0) Attacks: Melee BAB +4 | Ranged BAB +3 | Combat Maneuver Bonus +4 | Combat Maneuver Defense +18 Weapons: +4, 1d6+3; x2Unarmed Strike | +3, 1d8; 19-20 x2; 80'Light Crossbow | +4, 1d4+3; x3Punching Dagger Martial Flexibility: 4/day, move action to gain the use of a combat feat he doesn't have. Must meet all prerequisits for the feat; lasts one minute. Martial Flexibility Uses (Per Day) | O | O | O | O Skills: +2 (dex) +1 (rank) +3 (class skill) -1 (ACP)Acrobatics +5 | +3 (str) +1 (rank) +3 (class skill) +2 (athletics) -1 (ACP)Climb +8 | +1 (rank) +3 (class skill)Handle Animal +4 | +1 (int) +1 (rank) +3 (class skill)Kn: Dungeoneering +5 | +1 (int) +1 (rank)Kn: Religion +2 | +1 (int) +1 (rank) +3 (class skill)Lore (Athletic Competitions) +5 | +1 (wis) +1 (rank) +3 (class skill)Perception +5 | +2 (dex) +1 (rank) +3 (class skill)Stealth +6 | +3 (str) +1 (rank) +3 (class skill) +2 (athletics) -1 (ACP)Swim +8 Languages Common, Dwarven, Drow Sign Language

 

Equipment
Backpack (mwk)	Bedroll
Chalk x2	Grappling Hook (Common)
Explorer’s Outfit	Flint and Steel
Pouch, belt (20 gold)	Rope (silk), 50'
Signal whistle	Small Steel Mirror
Trail rations, 5 days	Waterskin
Scroll of CLW	Scroll of Cloak of Secrets
Scroll of Expeditious Retreat	Torch x2
Scroll Case x2	Insignia of House Ejlvajn
Total Carried Weight (Including Armor and weapons)	67lbs

[Sorcerious]

Dorin Dorin wondered why Anja was not moving but his thoughts were interrupted by Henry and Argonar's response to the new person. She must be playing dead to ambush this new person if they are a threat. She was always better at spotting these things then me, I should be more observant He thought to himself as he rose and took a position beside and slightly behind his siblings. His hammer in hand but not raised in a threatening gesture, yet. He bowed his head slightly when introduced and waited for the disoriented stranger to respond. Hopefully she would let them move along peacefully. Now that the adrenaline had worn off Dorin found himself not wanting another fight.

[Ziether]

Kah’veil Silverclaw Violence was not high on Vay’s preferences, much to the contrary of the posture she held. When nobody made any moves to harm her or even to present an imminent threat, she calmed quickly, claws retracting as her feet shifted into a more neutral stance, hands held at her sides to maintain an image of safety. "My apologies. As long as you have no quarrel with me, you are more than welcome to pass. Please, allow me to stand aside." Putting action to the words, the sleek young woman slid one large step to the side, leaving the gap through which she had emerged unobstructed. "You haven’t happened to have seen several other young folks recently, have you? I was here with my siblings, and I can’t remember what separated us." An insistent buzz somewhere in the back of her mind kept Vay from fully remembering her mission. The faces of her dear brothers and sister swam through her thoughts, but very little could find purchase. "I say siblings, but not the traditional sort. It would be hard to explain to outsiders." Try as she might, Vay could not get her eyes to stay focused on anything, and she knew her distracted state would be a liability if she were caught at unawares. "Would you mind if I followed you for a bit? You look to be prepared for trouble, and I tend to be better suited to assisting others than striking out on my own. The name is Kah’veil Silverclaw. You might call me a scholar of the arcane, and a dabbler in languages." As if to emphasize her point, she noted the state of her fur and gave a little half-smirk, passing one hand in front of herself from left to right, chanting softly. Every trace of dirt and dust disappeared, leaving her hair properly groomed and gleaming. With another pass of her hand from her hips up to her throat, a set of violet stripes appeared in her fur, running down her neck to her shoulders and down her arms. "Now that’s more like it."

OOC   Spells Cast: Prestidigitation (clean her fur, color her fur)

[Brian]

Argonar Argonar relaxes when the young woman declares her intent to avoid combat, "No, I'm afraid I haven't seen anyone else aside from this man and one other, whom I don't think was of an age to be your sibling. He didn't seem very pleasant either." he felt his skin crawl again at the memory. "Family is family, no matter how non-traditional, we all understand that" he adds, kneeling down to check on Anja again, his expression concerned. Distractedly he says, "If you want to come with us, I don't have a problem with that Kah'veil, although it might be dangerous. If you like Knowledge and spells, you'll probably get along well with Dorin and Gilda." He stands, lifting Anja in his arms she's so small he thinks "Hang in there Anja" he whispers to her as he carries her to McGee's wagon. "McGee, can you take her back to the city and find the man who told you to wait for us?"

 

Stat Block Argonar Brawler 1 Hit Points: 10/12| AC: 10 +3 (armor) +2 (dex) +1 (dodge) +1 (deflection)17 | Touch +2 (dex) +1 (dodge) +1 (deflection)14 | FF +3 (armor) +1 (deflection)14 | Speed: 30 | Initiative: +2 Saves: Fort +4 | Reflex +4 | Will +1 STR 16 (+3) DEX 14 (+2) CON 14 (+2) INT 12 (+1) WIS 12 (+1) CHA 11 (+0) Attacks: Melee BAB +4 | Ranged BAB +3 | Combat Maneuver Bonus +4 | Combat Maneuver Defense +18 Weapons: +4, 1d6+3; x2Unarmed Strike | +3, 1d8; 19-20 x2; 80'Light Crossbow | +4, 1d4+3; x3Punching Dagger Martial Flexibility: 4/day, move action to gain the use of a combat feat he doesn't have. Must meet all prerequisits for the feat; lasts one minute. Martial Flexibility Uses (Per Day) | O | O | O | O Skills: +2 (dex) +1 (rank) +3 (class skill) -1 (ACP)Acrobatics +5 | +3 (str) +1 (rank) +3 (class skill) +2 (athletics) -1 (ACP)Climb +8 | +1 (rank) +3 (class skill)Handle Animal +4 | +1 (int) +1 (rank) +3 (class skill)Kn: Dungeoneering +5 | +1 (int) +1 (rank)Kn: Religion +2 | +1 (int) +1 (rank) +3 (class skill)Lore (Athletic Competitions) +5 | +1 (wis) +1 (rank) +3 (class skill)Perception +5 | +2 (dex) +1 (rank) +3 (class skill)Stealth +6 | +3 (str) +1 (rank) +3 (class skill) +2 (athletics) -1 (ACP)Swim +8 Languages Common, Dwarven, Drow Sign Language

 

Equipment
Backpack (mwk)	Bedroll
Chalk x2	Grappling Hook (Common)
Explorer’s Outfit	Flint and Steel
Pouch, belt (20 gold)	Rope (silk), 50'
Signal whistle	Small Steel Mirror
Trail rations, 5 days	Waterskin
Scroll of CLW	Scroll of Cloak of Secrets
Scroll of Expeditious Retreat	Torch x2
Scroll Case x2	Insignia of House Ejlvajn
Total Carried Weight (Including Armor and weapons)	67lbs

[Icereach]

Previously on... "Oh my Goddess, Vay! Run! Ru-!" His voice curled upwards, at the very end of his life, a fraction of a second of unspeakable pain. Kah'veil Silverclaw had no time of her own to analyze her beloved sibling's final gasp. She could only run. The door was there. One clawed hand reached forward. The other curled tightly around a jagged needle of silvery metal. The door. It was right there... *** "Where. Is. It!" The man snarled again, his faintly sibilant voice biting off each word sharply with this iteration. In other circumstances, his face would have been entirely unremarkable, save for its lack of memorable features. By the structure of his facial bones, bald, golden-tanned skull, and muddled complexion, he could have hailed from near anywhere. His clothing was as nondescript as his face, simple traveler's leathers, a short cape, and sturdy boots. The rage that currently suffused his face transformed it entirely. If she remembered none of the rest of it, he was a face Vay would see in her nightmares. Seeing the feline still locked in the torpor of her previous enchantment, the man snarled and finally released his vice-like grip on her wrist, flinging it aside in disgust. For a moment or two, he paced back in forth before her blank eyes, idly flicking his own muddy brown gaze around the room. Suddenly, he fell stock still and turned his head sharply in the direction of the crumbled wall to his right. After a few seconds of careful listening, he dug into a pouch at his side and whispered a few words, vanishing into thin air.

---

Bobbie sang the blues... As the Donkrell came to a juddering halt, McGee leaped from her perch and danced forward a few steps, her pale gaze washing over the assembled group. When it paused on Anja, her body still, cradled in Argonar's laden arms, the girl's face fell by the faintest of degrees. "Notting... Uh..." she began haltingly. Another swift glance around, however, changed her mind about her next statement, visibly reflected in the crinkling of her bird-like brow. "Aye. Of the doing. In back placing of the girl?" "Notting the knowing of the smelly man... But taking to the Hall of Rest can the Donkrell. Knowing there they and Bobbie McGee." As her brother placed her as gently as possible on the firmly padded benches, the vegetative young woman gave a small sigh. Meanwhile, the two donkeys stamped and champed nervously, still scenting the blood in the air. They shied together as one of the downed canines gave a piteous whine but McGee reached out calmly and took their dangling bridles in either hand. Head bent, she whispered into their long, forward-cocked ears for a minute while Argonar made Anja as comfortable as he could. The girl then swiftly climbed back up on her bench and snapped her fingers to get the young man's attention. "Asking at the gate. The Hall of Rest. Ill they do the caring for." With that, she tightened the slack on the leather chords between her slender palms and looked around a final time. She worked too obviously at hiding the pity in her eyes; her lip gave the faintest quiver. "Now should be the going."

---

Keep calm, carry on. The scene before the rest of the group was no less depressing. As they noticed during their conflict, a huge section of the eastern wing had blown outwards on the first floor, littering the surrounding area with rubble. Around and amongst it lay their injured opponents, none yet stirring after their various wounds had been tended. Gilda stood closest to the bound man, and even with a glance it was obvious he was truly subdued and not faking. As Kah'veil would have noticed as she stumbled back out into the daylight for what felt like the first time in many, many, many years, much of the first level had suffered catastrophic damage, as well. In the southwestern wall, a doorway stood choked with rubble. Another doorway opened to the northwest, some fifteen feet from the collapsed eastern wall, its unlit maw gaping and sinister.

---

Direction Just for record-keeping, all of your opponents are going to be down for quite a few hours, but I won't forget they're there. When you're ready, the most obvious way forward is the dark doorway to the northwest. I'm undoubtedly going to screw it up at some point, but I'm going to try and remember to denote light levels with a tag when they're consistently a factor. The first room of the tower is {Normal} light, the five feet on either side of the door is {Dim} light, and the room you can see is {Dark}

Map