AD&D Greyhawk Adventures: The Temple of Elemental Evil

Game Master Anselth

"Tis the same as at the crypt arch. Gnobby and Tarmin go north, Podo and Sallandrya go east. Andre and I wait in this central chamber and you bring any trouble back to us. Behind that door is our fallback position if things go badly. There may be others to the south or southwest but we can only scout one at a time. Is that good?"

You mean west, not east?

Indeed. West. cough

"Sure". "Let's go arrow queen".

Sallandrya nods and begins to quietly follow Podo's path to the west corridor.

I need listen checks from both rogues, as well as hide/move silently if you are attempting to.

Rangers have the ability to surprise others and have a smaller chance to be surprised but I am not sure if that has been a factor so far.

Does that mean the Rangers can alert the party or is this just for the Rangers?

Right now I'm just looking for the rogue skill rolls. It may or may not come into play, but I don't like rolling for the party if I can help it.

uh oh.

1d100 ⇒ 89 Listen (21)

1d100 ⇒ 74 Move quietly (55)

1d100 ⇒ 5 Hide in shadows (55)

Tarmin follows Gnobby closely as they explore the other passage.

listen/move quietly/hide: 3d100 ⇒ (68, 86, 23) = 177

With the cloak, Gnobby is virtually invisible, but neither quiet nor observant.

As the group moves into the larger room, they note that the two southern corridors end in closed doors. Gnobby and Tarmin cautiously move up the northern passage, finding that it jogs to the east slightly before continuing north. Ahead, it appears to have an eastern passage, while terminating slightly past that branch.

Sallandrya and Podo do not move far before the passage opens into a larger room. Belatedly, Sallandrya notes that the room is filled with large, doglike humanoids, and they are all staring at her. The one closest grumbles in a gutteral language that Podo doesn't understand, however, it doesn't seem like they've taken any notice of him. He does, however, notice that at least one of the creatures is wearing a tattered cloak like he and Sallandrya are wearing.

It is said that each of the Elven gods gifted The People with their grace at the dawn of creation, with wit as nearly as swift as her bow arm Sallandrya's retort would do the trickster god Erevan Ilesere proud.

Sallandrya bows slightly to the gnolls, but does not lose eye contact with her 'challenger', like hunting packs in the wild, one does not give the edge to the 'alpha', the Ranger summons up a dominant posture and with a grutal series of low barks that seem out of place coming from a Fey -

in gnoll

'Perhaps if my lord had not found your skills and abilities lacking, there would have been no need for my presence here. I have served my lord for many years, and will continue to do so. Do not challenge my position or you may find yourself adorning my lord's wall as a trophy. You are but a shadow of the great flinds, and even they know and respect my lord.'

Technically Sallandrya has not lied in the above statement, she has served the great Hunter for decades, she is just not naming him directly, she also threw the last part to bring notice that Flinds bully gnolls and she obviously knows a thing or two about the race.

Andre and Sir Galavaine, You note that Sallandrya has stopped. There seems to be speaking coming from where she is, but you cannot make out the words.

The gnolls step towards the elf, still apparently unaware of her diminuitive companion, growls emanating from the speaker and several of the others. Sallandrya and Gnobby hastily count 9 of the wolfish creatures, most armed with battleaxes, but two in the rear are leaning on longbows.

In gnoll

"Speak carefully, morsel. your lord knows nothing of respect. We kill and plunder at his behest, but we keep nothing. Five of my pack stalk the shadow realm now, all at the beck of your lord. Either you have business here, or you are a meal. So speak, or begone. I have no time for idle threats."

Sallandrya, I need a charisma check.

Tarmin and Gnobby, you're too far along to hear anything. Are you continuing ahead, or coming back?

Tarmin and Gnobby ease them selves down to the right hand corner in order to see where it leads. Then will report back to the others.

Sir Galavaine's eyes narrow and he strains to hear what is going on. all to no avail. Acting purely on instinct, he turns to Andre and murmurs, "something may be going wrong. This spell will help protect you a little better. Be ready to guard the way."

casts protection from evil on Andre and waits at the doorway back to the crayfish. Not in the main chamber with its four exits. Too many opportunities for someone attacking our rear.

Andre listens to the tone of the conversation, trying to puzzle out whether Sallandrya needs his assistance or not. He does not respond to Galavaine verbally, only nodding as he crouches slightly to be prepared to move at a moment's notice.

There are nine! OMG OMG on my phone when I looked at the map I saw two lol. The ones with the bows. Wow, Um HELP guys!

does the garb I have on, bravado and knowledge of the gnolls get a small bonus?

in gnoll

'I indeed have my lord's favor, and as such I NEVER make idle threats, your pack is fast and has its uses, but do NOT forget your place alpha!'

'As such I am here on to seek a handful of you to go on a quick but profitable raid, five should suffice, and you may keep your spoils. Who among you have mettle to actually bring battle and who just posture and play at war?'

Sallandrya is sneering and does not lose eye contact with the leader.

Charisma 1d20 ⇒ 12

Sallandrya also makes a single, quick and very slight one finger gesture to Podo to start moving back.

Podo hides around the corner, confused at why Sallandrya is barking at the dog men. Has she switched sides. He slowly and carefully retreats and informs the others what he has witnessed.

"Sally is barking at some big ugly dog like guys". "They're giant, and smelly with big sharp weapons, and they're talking to Sallandrya like she knows them". "Something's very wrong".

lol

And the Elf stands alone.

The Gnoll's ears twitch at the prospect.

In Gnoll

"So the new recruits have already lost favor? I told your lord that those creatures were not to be trusted. Still, I would know what plunder we can expect. My pack and I are as inclined to go as to stay. It must be worth our while."

As this conversation continues, the pack close in on Sallandrya, who is feeling more than a bit alone at this point. However, she notes that much of the creature's body language seems to mirror that of dogs and wolves she has dealt with in the wild, and they seem to be less prepared to spring at her, though they haven't relaxed their guard.

As they move closer, Andre manages to catch a glimpse of one of the creatures, before Podo pulls him out of sight, to warn him of what's going on.

Gnobby and Tarmin silently approach the eastward branch, and find that it travels some 50 feet to where it appears to open into another well lit room. Tarmin thinks she sees movement in the shadows on the wall, but can't be certain. They also note that what they thought was a wall to the west is actually a staircase going up.

Sir Galavaine sees nothing down the hall behind them.

Sallandrya does not take her eyes off the alpha's stare down contest. In fact it is quite unnerving how the Elf seems not to blink (as only a fey creature who is not prone to sleep can).

She attempts to convey and act more relaxed, almost bored, quite like patient adult having to explain a simple idea or point to a band of children.

In gnoll

'My lord will still need some of your pack to remain here, as guards, or perhaps to raid elsewhere. For his purposes, I would think five of you should suffice, if you are at least half as capable as you profess to be.'

Sallandrya casts a quick glance upon the group, half appraising, half looking like a team captain forced to pick from the bottom of a broken rotted barrel.

'Five, including the archers, for I plan to strike swift and deep into the lands of men. A raid near the outlying farms of Hommlett, under the cover of night, where farmers are tired from a hard days work and fast asleep. Defenses, if any, will be minimal, it will hardly be sport. The crops have just been harvested, and sold, many of these men have filled their coffers. My lord will take half of the plunder, to further build our strength in arms, to bribe his many corrupt informants, and other matters you need not concern yourself with.

Sallandrya knows that gnolls, like the hyenas they bare similarities too, are scavengers, and opportunists, she is hoping that several easy targets with the opportunity of wealth will be an adequate bait. She is hoping to draw half the group away from the rest.

'I have no interest in any monies we may find, I serve my lord for his will shall shape this part of the world. If you lead your pack well alpha, and do as my lord wills, my share is yours.'

Then in a whisper, intended only for the alpha to hear, and accompanied with a smile that would make a female Drow noble envious,

'Fail my lord ... and your pack will seek new leadership, and I assure you that your pain will be quite lengthy as it will be unbearable.''

Attempt to intimidate 1d20 ⇒ 3

"Hommlet? Your master finally grows bold. I grow weary of attacking caravans and travellers. We shall show those weak creatures fear."

He turns and growls at the two closest to him, and then at the two archers, who all begin to move towards the entrance.

"We are ready. Let us depart." Apparently intent on taking the lead, he brushes past Sallandrya back towards the corridor.

Tapping Gnobby on the shoulder, Tarmin indicates that he follow her back to the others. She then eases back from the corner and makes her way back to where the others await.

Sallandrya mentally thanks Solonor, then each and every one of the gods of the Seldarine that they have not forgotten her plight in this wretched hive.

A hive that will soon be brought low, the Seldarine willing.

I hope Tarmin and the others are ready for my flea infested merry band.

Wait, wait ... am I a wondering encounter?!

Wandering encounter

There is a 1 in 4 chance you will meet a band of Gnolls, if encountered there is a 1 in 100 chance they will be led by an Elf. When encountered, if there is an Elf, a Paladin, a Cleric and at least two short Demihumans in the PC's party, there is a 99.9 % chance the Elf with the Gnolls will be friendly.

Remember, Salla, this is first edition. Since we're encountering a female character in a dungeon setting, this means you're more likely than not to be a demon in disguise.

God thing Paladins have not learned to Smite yet.

:)

Sad paladin is sad.

Andre looks up to see two Gnolls exit the passage into the room. Following them is Sallandrya, still armed. The lead Gnoll barks something back to her which neither Podo or Andre understand, then they freeze, staring at the Paladin, before readying their weapons to attack.

Andre, you and Podo are in a position to attack, as is Sallandrya, of course, though she is fairly surrounded. Gnobby and Tarmin will turn the corner at the beginning of next turn. The party is up.

'We have a tribute for Yeenoghu then. Advance and don't let them flank us or I'll have your hides! I want prisoners for questioning!'

Sallandrya will pull her bow long and take several back steps to appear like she trying to prepare to take long shots and a better angle at the adventuring party, but is trying to get behind her 'escort'.

Can Sallandrya act AFTER the gnolls advance in front of her? She will also attempt to 'bluff' that gnoll has gotten in her line of fire. She could probably get away with only one round of this.

first shot 1d20 + 2 + 2 ⇒ (14) + 2 + 2 = 18 as soon as the last gnoll in the 'back' of the group passes, she will attempt to fire at the alpha.

1d6 + 2 + 2 + 1 ⇒ (3) + 2 + 2 + 1 = 8

Bluff attempt 1d20 ⇒ 5

in gnoll

'You careless dog, get down you are blocking my shot!'

Second shot 1d20 + 2 + 2 ⇒ (17) + 2 + 2 = 21

1d6 + 2 + 2 + 1 ⇒ (3) + 2 + 2 + 1 = 8

DM I think I lost my original post during an edit, I think my original first shot to hit was not as good as the above post if you want to recton that it's fine, I think my second shot on the original post was 19 so even better than the above.

Looking at the map I had no idea the party was that close, I thought the were somewhat further away, perhaps Sallandrya should move towards Tarmin and Gnobby.

Podo springs from his concealment spot in the shadows, and attempts to backstab the last gnoll in line, hoping to be able to support Sallandrya from his position afterwards.

1d100 ⇒ 37 Hide in Shadows. (55)

1d20 + 4 ⇒ (11) + 4 = 15 Backstab

2d6 ⇒ (3, 2) = 5 Backstab damage

"Come forth, you varlets!", Andre cried to the gnolls. "You face one of the Cudgeler's Chapeaux this day! Come forward, and die like the dogs you are!" He awaits for the inevitable charge, striking at whichever gnoll reaches him first.

The other guys are role playing that they are away from the main combat really well.

:P

Tarmin is making her way back to the others, when she hears the sound of combat; shouts and guttural barks echoing off the stonework. A worried glance at Gnobby and she set off at a run, only slowing when she nears the entrance to the room, bow partially drawn until she can appraise the situation.

Three Gnolls charge the Paladin, battleaxes flashing as he sets his feet and grits his teeh, prepared to meet them. His well honed senses draw a portion of his attention to the elf woman who raises her bow and aims right at him. Unable to dodge the arrow, he raises his shield to deflect it, but the strike never comes. Instead there is a dull thud, followed by a bark from the Ranger, and another thud, and the gnoll that started the charge falls sliding across the floor, two arrows protruding from his back.

Forced to redirect his attack, Andre is unable to connect with either of the two charging gnolls remaining. He fends off one axe with his shield and catches another blow on the guard of his sword. Absently, he notes an arrow whistle past his ear.

Podo jumps out at the archer who fired at Andre, but misjudges just slightly and only catches the creature's cloak. Tarmin and Gnobby clear the corner in time to see the gnolls rush Andre, and the shout of his companion brings Sir Galavaine back around the corner to see the combat unfold.

The second archer begins to line up a shot on Andre, and grunts when Sallandrya strikes and admonishes the leader. When her second arrow also hits him, the creature backs up, hastily firing his bow at her. When the arrow sails past her back, he makes a series of barks and drops the bow, reaching for the battleaxe slung over his back.

Map is updated

Gnobby runs on short legs to where the room opens his sword and dagger drawn. He is hidden in his cloak ready to pounce.
Positioning round for me.

"Yikes"! Podo re-sheaths his sword,and moves back out of the melee, drawing his trusty sling as he goes.

"Hah!", Andre laughs as he fends off the gnoll's strikes. "The powers of Good are my bulwark! You cannot hope to prevail here!" He pushes his shield against the gnoll to his left, and thrust his blade at the other gnoll's midsection.

Tarmin reaches the corner and stops, eye widening, at the scene before here. Kneeling, she fires a volley of arrows at the gnolls assailing Andre.

Arrow 1
Attack 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (2) + 3 = 5
Damage 1d6 + 2 ⇒ (3) + 2 = 5

Arrow 2
Attack 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (4) + 3 = 7
Damage 1d6 + 2 ⇒ (3) + 2 = 5

Gnobby looks at the elf and hopes she hasn't blown his hiding spot. Tucked in his cloak, he prepares to unleash the blades of death.

Tarmin's hasty shots fly wide of their mark, but they draw the attention of the gnolls and let them know that there are more enemies. Andre's target somehow manages to turn and fend off his strike at the last second, growling low in his throat at the Paladin. Seeing his companion hard pressed, Sir Galavaine charges in on his right, swinging wildly at the gnoll in an attempt to draw its attention.

I like NOT these odds ...

Sallandrya's expression does not change but there is clear worry in her eyes.

We have to even up the odds.

Focus!

I have to even up the odds!

'Solonor guide my aim!', Sallandrya fires a full volley while placing herself on the north east corner of the room, away from the oncoming gnolls.

First shot 1d20 + 2 + 2 ⇒ (17) + 2 + 2 = 21

1d6 + 2 + 2 + 1 ⇒ (6) + 2 + 2 + 1 = 11 dmg

Second shot 1d20 + 2 + 2 ⇒ (11) + 2 + 2 = 15

1d6 + 2 + 2 + 1 ⇒ (6) + 2 + 2 + 1 = 11 dmg

Third shot 1d20 + 2 + 2 ⇒ (19) + 2 + 2 = 23

1d6 + 2 + 2 + 1 ⇒ (3) + 2 + 2 + 1 = 8 dmg

Those are some sexy rolls!

Spinning to face the bowyman calling for aid while backing away, Sallandrya's first arrow takes him in the throat, his call for help becoming a gurgle as he falls to the floor. She calmly switches aim to the other bowyman, who is taking aim at Podo, dropping him with a well placed shot to the back. Her third arrow catches the first to charge from the lair, the creature snarls in pain, but keeps coming, the rest of his pack trailing behind. Andre and Sir Galavaine fall into a familiar rhythm, fending off the attacks of the two in front of them, their shields and weapons working together to form an almost impenetrable wall.

Map is updated, party is up

Andre heard the howls coming from the room, and spared a moment to look past his foe to notice the rest of the gnoll pack rushing out towards them. He turned his attention back to the gnoll before him, but the momentary lapse caused his swing to miss by a hair yet again.

Assessing the situation in a second, Sir Galavaine points behind him and the shield wall. "Archers and scouts get behind us now. Spread out like this and they will pick you off. "

He swings the warhammer at the same gnoll as Andre.

Warhammer attack 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (20) + 1 = 21, damage 1d6 + 2 ⇒ (3) + 2 = 5

Cursing the bad light in this dungeon, Tarmin takes a deep breath and targets the gnolls running into the room.

Arrow #1
Attack 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (5) + 3 = 8
Damage 1d6 + 2 ⇒ (4) + 2 = 6

Arrow #2
Attack 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (7) + 3 = 10
Damage 1d6 + 2 ⇒ (2) + 2 = 4

Arrow #3
Attack 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (17) + 3 = 20
Damage 1d6 + 2 ⇒ (1) + 2 = 3

Sir Galavaine staggers the Gnoll, but the creature snarls back at the two armored companions. Tarmin strikes the gnoll that Sallandrya had hit once before, dropping him with a yelp just as he cocks his arm to swing at her sister ranger.