Barakus begins (Black Tom's Necro campaign)


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Male Human (mostly) Ex-cleric and Grumpy Cat

You start your adventure in the village of Seahill, about 15 mile south-west from Warwik. Rumour has it that a little old lady wants help to get to Warwik and that she pays well. Since you are heading in the same direction, you decide to investigate and manage to find out where she's parked her cart.

As you approach the cart (which looks a bit worse for wear and is cluttered with birdcages, boards, kettles and other utensils hanging from every conceivable hook) an elderly woman in ragged clothing and chewing some sort of ancient cigar pops her head out and screams at you:

"Lay off my wagon, you thieving scum." Then she lays eyes on you and calms down somewhat. "My, oh my", she says, shaking her head slowly, "they sure don't make adventurers like they used to in my day. You here for the job, I guess."

Grumblingly you answer in the affirmative and she sighs and says that you'll have to do (all the really good ones either get themselves killed or charge far too much), but that she'll wait until there are some more of you, because you sure don't look like you could hold off an orc ambush by yourself [or yourselves, as the case may be].

"Listen carefully, lad/lass", she says. "I pay fair and I pay well, but then I expect to arrive safely with all my goods. I am a herbalist and I have some pretty valuable elixirs in here. An' don't you think of stealing any, 'cause you wouldn't know the difference between potion and poison, would you?" *cackle*

"Anyways, I like to arrive safely and comfortably, and if I do, you get a healing potion out of my very own cauldron. But if the goods are damaged, you get nothin'. An' if you get hurt or killed, you're on your own. I sure ain't wasting any healing on you."

"You provide your own food and lodging. I expect to be there in three days' tops, if all goes well. Myself, I sleep in the cart, but there is only room for one. Once we get through Fool's pass and join up with Merchant's Road there is the Roadside Inn for the last night, but you might do well to bring a tent."

"What do you say?"


Sandros listens to the woman's spiel with a growing grin. When she finally reaches the end, he bursts out laughing. "Milady," he says, offering a sweeping bow, "how could any worthy soul forgo such a noble and generous offer? I am Sandros Highmount, and my sword is yours until we reach Warwik."

Let's just hope that she can turn that tongue against the orcs! he thinks. Of course, if she could, she probably wouldn't need me...


M Half Orc 1 Rogue

After listening to the lady speak, Grond crouches down to Royl's level. "Well this looks as good a way to get out of town as any, and we might make a handy profit as well, but it is your decision little one." Grond has good reason to want to leave town, but I will leave it up to your imagination what those reasons are.

He stand up to his full 6'-6 height, adjusts the cowl that partially conceals his leering face, and scans the crowd. The talk of orcs makes him uncomfortable, and he has no wish for any "unhappy homecomings."


Male Human (Alryan) Cleric 3

A small but spry man dressed in studded leather, hands wrapped in linen up to his elbows happens by atop his trusty mule steed and overhears the anouncement of employment. "Work is work," he mumbles and gathers with the rest of the group standing before the elderly lady. "I am Proteus," he announces to those gathered, in particular the elder woman. "I am willing to lend my skills to your journeys."


M Half Orc 1 Rogue

"That is a fine mule you have there, Proteus. It looks like it will hold up well on the journey." Grond will automatically appraise the steed then casually turn and appraise (without touching) anything else on the wagon that seems valuable.

He will flex his brawny shoulders, and re-settle the falchion sword slung across his back, in an effort to impress Proteus with his strength.

He does not leave Royl's side until she has voiced her opinion on the subject of this endeavor. He is confident though, that she will agree, and Grond's spirits are already starting to brighten with the thought of travel. He does not like to stay in one place too long, and has over-stayed his welcome in this small village. The sneers of the village children are testement to that, and he growls and gnashes his teeth at any who come too close.


Male Human (Alryan) Cleric 3

"That is a fine weapon you have there," Proteus says, partially talking about the blade slung across the creatures back and partially speaking of the creature itself. "What might your names be?" Speaking to those gathered as he slides off the mule's back.


"Corellon's nose, if we've already started comparing our various 'weapons,' we seem to be getting far too friendly far too quickly!" Sandros laughs again. "I am Sandros Highmount, good Proteus. As for him... well, he's not seen fit to offer his name, nor has his lovely companion, but they seem to be attached at the hip. Anatomically improbable as that may be."

Sandros squints at the newcomer. "I must admit, my friend, I can easily see what value thews and steel such as his will be on our journey, but I'm at a bit of a loss where you're concerned. Shouldn't you have some kind of weapon, at least? If there are orcs hiding in those mountains (and there always are), I doubt they will flee in terror of your mule, no matter its quality..."


Male Human (Alryan) Cleric 3

"I can assure you Sir Highmount, it is not the lives I will take that will serve you, but rather the lives I will save as my purpose is that of healer. However, should we meet up with some orcs it will be my mule who will certainly be doing most of the running," Proteus says with a smile.

Seemingly, on cue, the mule moves away from the large, shrouded, snarling figure in an uncomfortable manner. "Calm, Atlas, calm," Proteus says softly to the mule standing next to him.


Female Halfling Sorcerer (celestial)
Grond the Backstabber wrote:
After listening to the lady speak, Grond crouches down to Royl's level. "Well this looks as good a way to get out of town as any, and we might make a handy profit as well, but it is your decision little one." Grond has good reason to want to leave town, but I will leave it up to your imagination what those reasons are.

Standing next to the large man, not even reaching his waist, is a tiny woman with long white-blonde hair and pale green eyes that seem far too large for her little face. She wears the hood of her muted green cloak down, and it disappears under the mass of hair. While her height might lead one to the wrong assumption, it's obvious with a second look that she doesn't have the right proportions to be a human child -- she's far too slim. Not only that, but there's a maturity in her eyes, right alongside a bit of mischief. She has a pack on her back, a walking staff in hand, and a crossbow at her hip.

The halfling looks up at the big man, smiles, and nods her head. In a quiet voice, "Let's see what's on the other side of the pass, my friend."

Sandros Highmount wrote:
"I am Sandros Highmount, good Proteus. As for him... well, he's not seen fit to offer his name, nor has his lovely companion, but they seem to be attached at the hip. Anatomically improbable as that may be."

The light mood of the man making her smile widen, she says, "Grond is a strong companion and a good friend. But I don't think we could even be joined hip-to-knee! My name is Roylenna. I'm a fair shot," pulling her cloak aside to make the crossbow obvious, "and I have some other surprises I'd be happy to share if we are to journey together."


"Oho!" shouts Sandros, clapping his hands together. "A healer, are you? Then I named you well when I called you friend! Especially since our employer seems disinclined to assist us in such matters, regardless of our need. You are most welcome, good Proteus!"

Edit: dang! Ninja'd!

Roylenna Brenoien wrote:
The light mood of the man making her smile widen, she says, "Grond is a strong companion and a good friend. But I don't think we could even be joined hip-to-knee! My name is Roylenna. I'm a fair shot," pulling her cloak aside to make the crossbow obvious, "and I have some other surprises I'd be happy to share if we are to journey together."

With no trace of derision, Sandros offers them both a bow. "Never argue with a halfling who tells you she has surprises," he says, smiling at each in turn. "And never argue with a half-orc at all! I am pleased to make your acquaintances, Roylenna Whitehair and Grond of the cloak." Sandros turns to face the old woman, raising an eyebrow at her. "So have we yet achieved an adequate number for holding off marauding orcs, or do you still wish to give more potions away?"


Female Halfling Sorcerer (celestial)

Roylenna looks around at the cart and the other two men before turning to wave her big friend down to her level and whisper something to him.

Grond:

Spoiler:
Are we going to need a horse?

I did not provision a mount and I don't have enough money left to get one, but I could easily ride behind someone else, if they were willing to add a little weight to their animal's encumbrance.


Male Human (Alryan) Cleric 3
Sandros Highmount wrote:
"So have we yet achieved an adequate number for holding off marauding orcs, or do you still wish to give more potions away?"

Proteus openly smiles seeing humor in Sandros' quip. "Is your sword as sharp as your wit, Sir Highmount?"

He turns to the oddly paired couple standing toward the other side of him. He bows slightly, releasing his gaze on the half-orc for only a second as his gaze moves to the halfling. Then, looking towards the two he says in friendly fashion, "It is a pleasure to meet you both."


Female Halfling Sorcerer (celestial)
Proteus wrote:
Proteus openly smiles seeing humor in Sandros' quip. "Is your sword as sharp as your wit, Sir Highmount?"

Roylenna giggles, "I certainly hope so!"

Proteus wrote:
He turns to the oddly paired couple standing toward the other side of him. He bows slightly, releasing his gaze on the half-orc for only a second as his gaze moves to the halfling. Then, looking up at the two he says in friendly fashion, "It is a pleasure to meet you both."

She makes a small bow in return, "We're pleased to meet you, too. A healer is always welcome company."


Female Halfling Sorcerer (celestial)
Black Tom wrote:

"You provide your own food and lodging. I expect to be there in three days' tops, if all goes well. Myself, I sleep in the cart, but there is only room for one. Once we get through Fool's pass and join up with Merchant's Road there is the Roadside Inn for the last night, but you might do well to bring a tent."

"What do you say?"

Moving up to the wagon so her soft voice can be heard, "My name's Roylenna, and my friend is Grond. We'll come along to help protect you and your wagon. May I ask who we have the pleasure of escorting?"

Just have this urge to roll some dice. Not well, mind you, just roll them.

Diplomacy: 1d20+3 = 3+3 = 6

So much for making a good first impression.


M Half Orc 1 Rogue

Grond glares at the two cock-sure noblemen strutting before him, imagining them in battle, but his sharp eyes quickly pick out the dents in their armor and mended tears in their garments. These men are no mere dandies, he realises, his glare turning slowly into a smile.

"Grond," he says, popping his knuckles, while out of the corner of his eye he catches the play between Royl and the herbalist. He chuckles, a low growl, bearing his blunt fangs in a wide smile. "Grond the Loyal" he shouts, turning to the old lady.

"I look forward to this meeting with orcs as well," he says, all vestiges of a smile gone.

OOC: Oops I havent really sat down and tallied gp spent yet, but I bet I could squeeze out a mule if required. Drop the bow and just rely on javelins for now mebbe. (should have gotten point blank in that case)


Male Human (mostly) Ex-cleric and Grumpy Cat

I haven't counted on your needing mounts. The wagon is slow enough that you'll be able to keep up with it on foot.

The old lady climbs out of the wagon and addresses you:

"Well, you seem to be shaping up. (To Sandros: "My, you are a strapping young man, you. Brings back memories. *chuckle*)

I guess just one more and I'm willing to risk it. I am Greta Wilkerson, and if you just keep on my good side, I'm sure we'll get along like a house on fire. We'll leave as soon as possible.

(To Proteus: "I see you have a mule there. Could I be so bold as to ask you to relieve old Hank part of the way?" She indicates one of the pair of old mules that draws the wagon, and that looks at you with a dull expression. "Ain't what he used to be, ol' Hank. He still knows how to pull, but he just needs a wee bit of rest now and then.")

"Very well, I am sure we are going to have a splendid adventure."

She climbs into the cart and returns with a large earthenware bottle, which she proceeds to uncork and take a hefty swig out of. Then she offers it to you. "A little brandy for the road, anyone? It's good; I made it myself."


Sandros takes the offered brandy with a grin and a nod, then whispers a small blessing before taking a deep swallow. His eyes bug slightly, he coughs once, and then he shakes his head and passes the jar along. "That's... got some kick, Mistress Wilkerson. If your potions have so much, they'll probably raise the dead!"

Grond:

Spoiler:
The blessing was a prayer to Corellon Larethian, in case that matters to you at all.


Female Halfling Sorcerer (celestial)
Grond the Backstabber wrote:
OOC: Oops I havent really sat down and tallied gp spent yet, but I bet I could squeeze out a mule if required. Drop the bow and just rely on javelins for now mebbe. (should have gotten point blank in that case)

OOC: I guess Black Tom has removed your necessity for a mount, anyway, but I imagine your falchion will see more action than your javelins. I see no issue with your feat selection.

Black Tom, are you anticipating any issues with my slower walking speed? Or are you including me and my speed in that statement?

Roylenna eyes the earthenware jug, thinking that it probably weighs half again what she does, and finally says, "No, ma'am, much as I would like to, I'm afraid it takes very little to affect me very strongly. Thank you for your offer."

But if that jug were small enough I thought I could hold it, I might give it a try, anyway. Last thing I want to do is lose the payment by breaking the woman's earthenware before we even leave. Especially after it affected the swordsman so.


Roylenna Brenoien wrote:
But if that jug were small enough I thought I could hold it, I might give it a try, anyway. Last thing I want to do is lose the payment by breaking the woman's earthenware before we even leave. Especially after it affected the swordsman so.

Sandros' dirty little secret: he doesn't actually hold his liquor all that well. A terrible failing in a swashbuckler, it's true, but there you are...!


Female Halfling Sorcerer (celestial)
Sandros Highmount wrote:
Sandros' dirty little secret: he doesn't actually hold his liquor all that well. A terrible failing in a swashbuckler, it's true, but there you are...!

Maybe so, but Roylenna doesn't know that - yet - and she's already found that her small size doesn't help her hold hers particularly well. And a hungover halfling, while very portable, is not much fun. ;-)


Male Human (Alryan) Cleric 3
Black Tom wrote:
(To Proteus: "I see you have a mule there. Could I be so bold as to ask you to relieve old Hank part of the way?" She indicates one of the pair of old mules that draws the wagon, and that looks at you with a dull expression. "Ain't what he used to be, ol' Hank. He still knows how to pull, but he just needs a wee bit of rest now and then.")

"Atlas only knows joy when he is working. I'm sure we could allow Hank a rest whenever he needs."


Male Human (mostly) Ex-cleric and Grumpy Cat

Greta chuckles contentedly. "I pride myself on my brandy, young man", she says. "I could find a thimble for you, my dear, if you'd like to try it" (grins at Roylenna). "But let's get this wagon moving. I don't want my potions to spoil before we get to Warwik."

Greta's brandy is made from ...mostly apples, so Sandros' reaction is entirely justified.

I think our short uncouth friend will just have to catch up. He's moving faster than the cart anyway, so that shouldn't be any trouble.
I would like to know your travelling arrangements: does anyone walk before, behind or beside the cart, is someone scouting ahead and at what distance etc. The road is well travelled for the first part of your journey, so there is plenty of room.


M Half Orc 1 Rogue

"I will drink for the two of us" Grond says, taking a pull on the bottle. He will attempt to empty it in one swig if possible. He will then return the jug.

Grond will sit, adjust his cloak to keep the sun off as much as possible, and wait. The smell of elf has his nose twitching, and the payer to Corellon makes his skin crawl, but he will not let the strangers see his weakness.

(OOC: Just bought equipment, didnt realize falchion was so expensive, yeow! No mule for me, or thieves tools, or bow either! Character sheet updated.)


Female Halfling Sorcerer (celestial)

Assuming Sandros and Proteus are close enough that I can address them both, I walk over to them, waving Grond to follow if he wishes.

"I've never been through orcish lands. Where I grew up, the common threat was goblins. Should we plan a strategy against possible orc attack? There was never a need with goblins -- they were so inconsistent that you couldn't do more than be ready to push them back."

"I'm no tactician, but if one of you are, you will need to know the nature of my 'surprises,'" she smiles. "I have a few spells - I am able to injure a foe (or possibly several of them) a little, aid an ally for a time, communicate a message quietly across a small distance. Nothing terribly effective in and of itself -- I'm no blaster. Yet."

Looking at the characters, I see that all can benefit from my heavenly fire ability except, ironically enough, my friend Grond, whom it will simply not effect at all. At some point, Roylenna will visit with each of them in private to "test" this before it's necessary (this has probably already been done with Grond). This includes the herbalist, if possible. She certainly doesn't want to kill someone because she misjudged how her ability will affect them -- she hasn't gotten confident yet in what makes it cause weal or woe, but she thinks she knows. An offer to try to heal a small wound, for example, is what I had in mind. Obviously, the cleric doesn't "need" this, but if he's down and Royl can get him on his feet, she needs to know.


Female Halfling Sorcerer (celestial)
Black Tom wrote:
Greta chuckles contentedly. "I pride myself on my brandy, young man", she says. "I could find a thimble for you, my dear, if you'd like to try it"

"In that case, I would love some!" She does her best to steel herself against the unfamiliar concoction.

I will probably walk alongside the wagon and visit with the herbalist while I watch whatever side of the road I can see... Or maybe I can see both sides, looking under the wagon, considering my height.

I'll be planning to use the wagon for cover, should the need arise. I will defer to the others, however, if someone presents a different plan regarding walking position, etc.


Black Tom wrote:
I would like to know your travelling arrangements: does anyone walk before, behind or beside the cart, is someone scouting ahead and at what distance etc.

If we're going to put someone on point, it should probably be Grond, for several reasons: he's got the best eyes, he's tied for the best Stealth (Royl's missing her size bonus on her sheet), and he's in the best position to take some damage if he triggers an ambush.

Plus it would get him away from the stinky half-elf. ;)

Sandros falls into step alongside the wagon, opposite Royl. As the wagon starts moving, he casually strings his bow and sets an arrow on the string, holding it in place as they walk, scanning the hills around them.

Roylenna Brenoien wrote:
"I've never been through orcish lands. Where I grew up, the common threat was goblins. Should we plan a strategy against possible orc attack? There was never a need with goblins -- they were so inconsistent that you couldn't do more than be ready to push them back."

Sandros shakes his head. "If it's an expert on orcs you want, I'd think your loyal friend would be the man to turn to. I spend as little time in the wilds as possible." He turns to look at the half-orc, raising his voice if Grond did not follow Roylenna. "Friend Grond? Your wisdom is needed here!"

Roylenna Brenoien wrote:
"I'm no tactician, but if one of you are, you will need to know the nature of my 'surprises,'" she smiles. "I have a few spells - I am able to injure a foe (or possibly several of them) a little, aid an ally for a time, communicate a message quietly across a small distance. Nothing terribly effective in and of itself -- I'm no blaster. Yet."

Sandros grins. "Surprises indeed! Well, I do know a little something about magic in battle; it was a specialty of my father's family. Do your spells works at range, or do you have to touch your enemies to bespell them? And what kind of 'aid' can you offer your allies?"

Alas, Sandros cannot read your character sheet.


Male Human (mostly) Ex-cleric and Grumpy Cat
Grond the Backstabber wrote:
"I will drink for the two of us" Grond says, taking a pull on the bottle. He will attempt to empty it in one swig if possible. He will then return the jug.

Grond, please roll a Fortitude save against 14.

To Royl:

Greta rummages some in the interior of the wagon and finds a none too clean small cup, fills it with what Grond left in the jug and gives it to Royl.

For Royl:

Spoiler:
Somewhat later Greta offers you to ride beside her for a while, and you find the opportunity to test your green fire on her. She willingly consents with an expression of amusement. It turns out that the fire neither hurts nor harms her. She looks entirely unimpressed but not unfriendly.


M Half Orc 1 Rogue

OOC Stuff:

Oh no, a natural 1! (stupid WOTC dice roller *grumble grumble*) (1+2,+1)= 4 fortitude save. Guess I'm not finishing the bottle lol!

What is this 'fire' Royl speaks of?

IC:

Grond moves to the back of the wagon area. He will march behind the wagon as they travel, always staying within 20 ft (low range javelins)

When asked about orcs, Grond will at first act as if he doesnt hear or is uninterested in the subject. When pressed he will reply. "I do not interact with my brethren. However, if you ask me about their battle tactics, I can tell you this: they are brutal, cunning, quick to anger, and slow to kill. Do not expect to meet an orc without being prepared to kill or die."


Grond the Backstabber wrote:
Grond moves to the back of the wagon area. He will march behind the wagon as they travel, always staying within 20 ft (low range javelins)

Not taking point then?


M Half Orc 1 Rogue

OOC:

I'm hoping the fast moving barb will when he shows up, if not I suggest the man w/ mule take point, maybe even out 150 yards or so. Mules can run when they need to and will be able to spring ambushes.

I would be happy to consider the idea of point. I might have the best skill set for it after all.


Female Halfling Sorcerer (celestial)
Sandros Highmount wrote:
If we're going to put someone on point, it should probably be Grond, for several reasons: he's got the best eyes, he's tied for the best Stealth (Royl's missing her size bonus on her sheet), and he's in the best position to take some damage if he triggers an ambush.

Yeah, I realized that, but haven't had time to verify how that works in the new rules. If you can enlighten me, I will take care of it when next I post. Otherwise, I have to wait until I get back to my computer again.

Sandros Highmount wrote:
Roylenna Brenoien wrote:
"I'm no tactician, but if one of you are, you will need to know the nature of my 'surprises,'" she smiles. "I have a few spells - I am able to injure a foe (or possibly several of them) a little, aid an ally for a time, communicate a message quietly across a small distance. Nothing terribly effective in and of itself -- I'm no blaster. Yet."
Sandros grins. "Surprises indeed! Well, I do know a little something about magic in battle; it was a specialty of my father's family. Do your spells works at range, or do you have to touch your enemies to bespell them? And what kind of 'aid' can you offer your allies?"

Yeah, I was intentionally vague with that description, trying to keep the conversation somewhat natural. Rather than sounding like I was reading my character sheet to your character.

"My spells work at short range. I don't imagine I'd be much help in any sort of melee. However, I can briefly increase your size -- that helps some warriors in battle, but maybe not for everyone. I think it might work well for Grond, for example."

"Beyond that, I have my 'green fire' but it affects different people in different ways -- I would rather test that on you before we really need it. For some folks, it heals, but I've also seen it burn a couple of men. I'm not sure why. I certainly won't force it on you if you are concerned."


Female Halfling Sorcerer (celestial)
Grond the Backstabber wrote:

OOC Stuff:

What is this 'fire' Royl speaks of?

This is the name she's given her Heavenly Fire spell-like ability. It can be used to heal a good character once a day (it's a green color like her eyes when this occurs) or used at will as a fire ray against evil characters (it's a lovely cherry red when this occurs). It has no effect on neutral characters.

Frankly, she's a little confused. When she first "used" it, it was always green and always healed, but when she tried to use it for a couple of men in the village we are leaving, it burned them instead. They were kind of mean, so she thinks that is related. Then she tried to show you how it worked (pre-game) and it did nothing at all, just splashed off your skin without effect.


Roylenna Brenoien wrote:
If you can enlighten me, I will take care of it when next I post. Otherwise, I have to wait until I get back to my computer again.

The old Hide bonus (+4 for every size category smaller than Medium, -4 for every category larger than Medium) has become a generic Stealth bonus. It looks like Pathfinder is not bothering to differentiate between Hide and Move Silently anymore (which will prove interesting with regards to things like armor of silent moves and the like...).

Roylenna Brenoien wrote:
"My spells work at short range. I don't imagine I'd be much help in any sort of melee. However, I can briefly increase your size -- that helps some warriors in battle, but maybe not for everyone. I think it might work well for Grond, for example."

Sandros frowns. "I think rather stay my own size, come to that. I'm afraid getting bigger would just make me awkward, and balance and timing are key to my style of swordplay. Grond would be a better choice. It sounds like you'd be most help under cover in or near the wagon, which suits me just fine."

Roylenna Brenoien wrote:
"Beyond that, I have my 'green fire' but it affects different people in different ways -- I would rather test that on you before we really need it. For some folks, it heals, but I've also seen it burn a couple of men. I'm not sure why. I certainly won't force it on you if you are concerned."

"Well, if you're going to check something like that, best to find out now." Sandros rolls up his sleeve and waits.


Male Human (mostly) Ex-cleric and Grumpy Cat
Grond the Backstabber wrote:

OOC Stuff:

Oh no, a natural 1! (stupid WOTC dice roller *grumble grumble*) (1+2,+1)= 4 fortitude save. Guess I'm not finishing the bottle lol!

No, indeed. Grond chokes on the brandy and gives Greta a good laugh as he tries to regain his breath. :o)

You make your way onwards by the road. The weather is fine, and everyone seems to be in good cheer, especially Greta, who spends her time smoking her execrable cigars and yelling at Hank, who tends to lag. In the early afternoon you come across an overgrown track leading off north (to your left) up towards a distant range of hills. Greta pulls the wagon to a halt. "This is where we leave Merchant's Road. The adventure begins."

With some trouble you manage to get the cart off the road and along the track. Progress is a little slower but you are doing fine. That is, until a few hours later when you hear a great noise from a small glade that you are passing and something that looks like a large pig cannonballs at you. Roll for initiative, please.

You might as well finish your conversation while you're at it and we'll run the combat afterwards.


Male Human (Alryan) Cleric 3

Proteus chimes in as the others discuss tactics. "I have the ability to guard our charge against incoming volleys by creating a fog that would engulf the wagon should we come across any orcs or other unfriendlies. My suggestion is that we walk at one corner of the wagon. Should we be faced with battle, I can conceal the wagon and we could use voice commands to call for assistance." Proteus starts at the sound of the crashing shrubbery.

Init 8+0=8


Female Halfling Sorcerer (celestial)
Sandros Highmount wrote:
"Well, if you're going to check something like that, best to find out now." Sandros rolls up his sleeve and waits.

"I agree, but I'm not going to force it on anyone. I suspect you have nothing to fear, anyway, but it's good to be certain. Which hand do you hold your sword with?" She takes the other hand, palm up, and places her tiny one above it. After a moment's concentration, a beam of light green shot through with motes of gold flashes from her palm to Sandros'. He feels a light rush not unlike a healing potion's effect, but it originates from his hand this time, not his stomach.

I doubt you had any damage at this stage, but if so, you heal up to 6 points of damage. Can't heal more than full, of course.

"That's a relief. I can't do much, but it's good to know it's an option, don't you think?"

Roylenna gladly accepts the offer to ride on the wagon and visits with Greta. As with Grond, she's surprised to see her green fire have no effect. More food for thought.

Per Proteus' suggestion, Royl will "take" the corner of the wagon nearest her seat on the bench and keep a watch out. When the wagon turns off the track, she will get the crossbow so it is near at hand, but will wait to actually load it.

Initiative: 1d20+3 = 4+3 = 7

EDIT: Neglected to post an action earlier, so included it here.


Roylenna Brenoien wrote:
I doubt you had any damage at this stage, but if so, you heal up to 6 points of damage. Can't heal more than full, of course.

I didn't, which is unfortunate, because that was my use for the day, and now we have an incoming pig. (sigh)

Roylenna Brenoien wrote:
"That's a relief. I can't do much, but it's good to know it's an option, don't you think?"

Sandros nods, smiling. "Very good, and I thank you for your willingness to share your gift," he replies.

As he notices Grond settling back toward the back of the wagon, Sandros picks up his pace a bit to take the lead.

Black Tom wrote:
With some trouble you manage to get the cart off the road and along the track. Progress is a little slower but you are doing fine. That is, until a few hours later when you hear a great noise from a small glade that you are passing and something that looks like a large pig cannonballs at you.

Sandros stares in shock for a moment as his city-dweller instincts try to make sense of what he's seeing, but his bow rises automatically to aim its arrow at the charging monstrosity.

Initiative (1d20+4=11)


Holy Cow, we are into it!

Initiative (7+3=10)
Grond will either hurl his javelin at the monstrosity and draw his falchion, or will move to within short range and hurl his javelin, if possible.

Grond walks behind, head down, hunched, but with his beady eyes always peering out. He listened idly to the chatter ahead of him but adds little commentary of his own, other than to grunt an ascent or to snort an objection. When the creature comes tearing out of the underbrush, he roara and shakes the javelin he'd been using as a walking staff. He is prepared for combat. His eyes dart to his comrades as he raises his javelin.


Male Dwarf Barbarian 1

From behind you down the road a bit you begin to hear someone yelling. As you look back you see a squat form with a shock of bright red hair loping steadily your way. As it gets closer you realize it's a dwarf who's shouting, "WAIT! DAMN YOUR EYES WAIT! YOU'LL NOT LEAVE WITHOUT OL'THORAK YOU WON'T!"

You can see he's been running for a fair bit trying to catch up to the cart. He also looks more like a small bear with all hides wrapped around his body. As he gets closer he pretty much smells like one too! The haft of a well used axe bounces against his leg as he runs and his pack is damn near ready to fall off his back.

Init (1d20+0=9)


Male Human (mostly) Ex-cleric and Grumpy Cat
Roylenna Brenoien wrote:


I didn't, which is unfortunate, because that was my use for the day, and now we have an incoming pig. (sigh)

Actually it says that a character can't benefit from Heavenly fire more than once a day. You have unlimited uses of it, which means that you'll be able to heal Sandros later, should he need it.

Tactical information: Sandros is in the lead, 10 feet ahead of the wagon, while Royl is walking beside it (on the right), with Proteus on his mule on the back left corner and Grond behind Royl at the back right corner of the wagon. Thorak is pantingly trying to catch up, some 60 feet behind the cart. I hope this makes sense.

As the pig charges Sandros you notices some peculiarities with the pig. First, that it looks more like a domestic pig than a wild boar. Second is that it has gleaming red eyes, a forked tongue and minute horns. And maybe weirdest of all is that there seems to be a clump of 3 foot long sickly green tentacles growing out of its back.

The pig's initiative is 8. It is currently 40 feet ahead of Sandros and coming in fast. Please state your actions and make the appropriate rolls.


Female Halfling Sorcerer (celestial)
Black Tom wrote:
Roylenna Brenoien wrote:


I didn't, which is unfortunate, because that was my use for the day, and now we have an incoming pig. (sigh)

Actually it says that a character can't benefit from Heavenly fire more than once a day. You have unlimited uses of it, which means that you'll be able to heal Sandros later, should he need it.

Actually, that was Sandros' comment, but I had the same concern. As written, though, the rules are just as you say. Cool.

Tactical information: Sandros is in the lead, 10 feet ahead of the wagon, while Royl is walking beside it (on the right), with Proteus on his mule on the back left corner and Grond behind Royl at the back right corner of the wagon. Thorak is pantingly trying to catch up, some 60 feet behind the cart. I hope this makes sense.

As the pig charges Sandros you notices some peculiarities with the pig. First, that it looks more like a domestic pig than a wild boar. Second is that it has gleaming red eyes, a forked tongue and minute horns. And maybe weirdest of all is that there seems to be a clump of 3 foot long sickly green tentacles growing out of its back.

The pig's initiative is 8. It is currently 40 feet ahead of Sandros and coming in fast. Please state your actions and make the appropriate rolls.

Some pre-combat housekeeping, if only to see if we like this or not:

Initiatives:
Sandros 11
Grond 10
Thorak 9
Mr. Tentacle Pig 8 (+?)
Proteus 8 (-?)
Roylenna 7

I'm guessing that Proteus' Dex Score of 10 will put him behind the porker in initiative. That's what the ? are about in the list.

For mapping purposes, here's my interpretation of the scenario - please correct me or adjust your character's position as necessary.

I have a long narrow map on my spreadsheet. Allowing for some horizontal movement, it runs down to row 33 and across to column K. The attack pig is in E1, Sandros in E10, Greta's mules are in E13-14 and F13-14, her wagon occupies most of squares E-F/15-17, Proteus astride Atlas occupies D19-20, Grond occupies G20, and Thorak is in G33 and closing. Royl is in G15, just right of the front of the wagon. I'm not sure how to go about sharing the image with everyone, sorry.

Since Roylenna is last in initiative, this is very tentative. In the unlikely event that no one has yelled out to the PCs in the back, Royl will do so as she does her actions. She will climb back up onto the wagon bench to get a higher vantage point and load her crossbow. Would she have a bonus to attack for shooting from higher ground? I always have to check to see if that applies to ranged attacks. EDIT: I checked, and the PHB says no.

Free: Yell warning to companions.
MA: Climb up onto wagon.
Climb check (if necessary): 1d20+1 = 17+1 = 18
MA: Load crossbow.

She will also be scanning the surroundings, looking for additional tentacled creatures and/or someone that might be using it as a distraction, if possible.

Perception check(s) (visual, if allowed): 1d20+0 = 18+0, 17+0, 19+0 = 18, 17, 19

Well, there are all my good rolls for this combat. ;-P


M Half Orc 1 Rogue

[ooc] My take on the situation is that Im 70 ft from piggie. 30 ft in front of lead, who is 10' in front of wagon whish is 10' lg (approximately) and I am 20' behind wagon.

Grond will dart forward to the front of the wagon (30' movement puts him abreast or just behind it and launch his javelin.

[ooc] To hit 5 (+3, -2) = 6. Not bothering to roll damage.

As a free action, Grond will roar and curse at the pig-like creature. The missed javelin causes him to go into a rage.


Black Tom wrote:
As the pig charges Sandros you notices some peculiarities with the pig. First, that it looks more like a domestic pig than a wild boar. Second is that it has gleaming red eyes, a forked tongue and minute horns. And maybe weirdest of all is that there seems to be a clump of 3 foot long sickly green tentacles growing out of its back.

"What the hell is that?" Sandros asks in shock, but his training is running well ahead of his mouth. The arrow flies true, Sandros' bowstring singing. Even as it does, however, the bow is falling from Sandros' hands and he has drawn his rapier, preparing to meet the thing's advance.

SA: Shortbow attack (1d20+5=19, damage 1d6=4)
Free: drop bow.
MA: draw rapier

Roylenna Brenoien wrote:

For mapping purposes, here's my interpretation of the scenario - please correct me or adjust your character's position as necessary.

I have a long narrow map on my spreadsheet. Allowing for some horizontal movement, it runs down to row 33 and across to column K. The attack pig is in E1, Sandros in E10, Greta's mules are in E13-14 and F13-14, her wagon occupies most of squares E-F/15-17, Proteus astride Atlas occupies D19-20, Grond occupies G20, and Thorak is in G33 and closing. Royl is in G15, just right of the front of the wagon. I'm not sure how to go about sharing the image with everyone, sorry.

Looks excellent to me, and I like the idea of using a spreadsheet for mapping too.


Female Halfling Sorcerer (celestial)
Grond the Backstabber wrote:

My take on the situation is that Im 70 ft from piggie. 30 ft in front of lead, who is 10' in front of wagon whish is 10' lg (approximately) and I am 20' behind wagon.

Grond will dart forward to the front of the wagon (30' movement puts him abreast or just behind it and launch his javelin.

To hit 5 (+3, -2) = 6. Not bothering to roll damage.

As a free action, Grond will roar and curse at the pig-like creature. The missed javelin causes him to go into a rage.

I believe the distance between Sandros and the swine is 40'. Also, I think we need to consider the mules in the total length of the wagon, which would add another 10'. As for the wagon's dimensions, I don't know for certain, but 10' wide and 15' long looked like the right proportions. Unfortunately, if Black Tom accepts those numbers, you began with 100' between you and the target. Assuming they are correct, a 30' move puts you alongside the hindquarters of Hank the mule so an attack is possible (up to 5 increments on thrown weapons, right?) but I doubt even with your strength you'd want to attempt it.

Too bad you can't move your speed and ready an action to throw the javelin, too. For what it's worth, a double move straight ahead would put you and Sandros in dandy position for a flank/sneak attack - assuming the porker attacks one of you, of course.


Male Human (Alryan) Cleric 3

Proteus jumps off Atlas' back and quickly ties him off to the back of the cart.


M Half Orc 1 Rogue

If it is 100' then I Would not waste a throw, I dont mind throwing at 1 range increment over short, but not 2. In that case I would simply move forward and then wait. I like the idea of flanking but Grond is in no mood for that right now. He want to hurl, draw, and hack.


Proteus wrote:
Proteus jumps off Atlas' back and quickly ties him off to the back of the cart.
Grond the Backstabber wrote:
If it is 100' then I Would not waste a throw, I dont mind throwing at 1 range increment over short, but not 2. In that case I would simply move forward and then wait. I like the idea of flanking but Grond is in no mood for that right now. He want to hurl, draw, and hack.

So I have Proteus in D18, and Grond in G8, yes?


Male Dwarf Barbarian 1

Running from behind the cart Thorak spies the pig charging,"Ah! I see the fun has already started! I knew this was going to be a good trip!"
Thorak drops his gear in the road and unlimbers his axe. He takes a two-handed grip on it and starts charging for the pig.

I'm going to double move and get into position so I can charge attack next round. I think I'm still to far away to charge the thing this round. But on the off chance I can make it this round here are some rolls.
Attack: 1d20+4 (17+4+2)=23
Damage: 1d10+3 (10+3)=13


Male Human (mostly) Ex-cleric and Grumpy Cat

Thanks, Royl, for the spreadsheet. The positions look about right to me. Unfortunately I don't have Excel at home, but I'll make do with pen and paper. Please accept one hero point (I'll explain in the discussion thread what these can be used for.)

I forgot to put Greta in the initiative order (she's at 20), and by the way, the name of her other mule is Heather.

This is what happens by initiative order:

20 Greta yells excitedly: "Don't hurt it! Such a magnificient specimen! I need it alive!"
11 Sandros' arrow strikes true but only manages to enrage the beast yet more. He drops the bow and draws his rapier.
10 Grond rushes forward, javelin in hand, and ends up in G11.
9 Thorak charges to G17.
8 The pig charges to E9, mouth foaming and tentacles flailing, its teeth ripping into Sandros' thigh. Blood gushes from the wound but he remains standing. 6 hp damage
8 Proteus hastily descends and ties Atlas to the wagon (moving to G18)
7 Royl climbs up next to Greta (F15), and scans the surroundings for further threats, but for the moment all else seems quiet.

The next round starts with Greta yelling at Sandros for hurting the pig, but she takes no active part in the fight, apart from jumping up and down with excitement. Please post your further actions.


Sandros hisses in pain as he feels the "pig's" teeth tear into his flesh. The hiss becomes a shout of disbelieving laughter when Greta's calls to "not hurt it" register on him.

"If you want it alive, madam," he shouts back to her, "you are welcome to capture it yourself!" He falls back half a step, making sure to keep his rapier between himself and the pig's fangs, before thrusting sharply at it once again.

Attack, fighting defensively (1d20+1=18, damage 1d6+2=7)
Sandros gains a +3 dodge bonus to AC until the start of his next turn.

Now Grond.

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