Absalom in Shadow (Duo): Part II - Dead Seas

Game Master Song of Chiroptera

Zandra wondered at the images she had just experienced and who the people might be. The fig tree was a giving tree, one that offered up its fruit, shade, resin and was a source of life sustaining shelter for entire ecosystems that lived in their branches. She wondered if the tree seen in her vision was a real place, perhaps somewhere in the Green District. She took it in stride though and showed little reaction for the outside observer to see. Being connected as she was to the world itself she was used to its wonders, surprises, and it's gifts.

Zandra continued to care for and interact with the family, especially the children for how the twig is bent so shall the tree grow. Young saplings were more pliable and resilliant they would recover and perhaps outgrow the harsh abuses heaped upon them before their delicate green skins turned to bark. Also the parents would be able to focus on the children's recovery giving them their own hope and growth. Sometimes the purest strongest guidence came from the family's youngest most vulnerable member.

Zandra took real pleasure in what she was doing the benefits were mutual, it was all a part of the cycle of life. If more people thought in terms of continuing cycles, circles of relationships and saw themselves as a part of a whole, as they were in nature, then perhaps the world would be a much better place.

The young girl was thankfully too young to be used as a sex toy by her captors, or perhaps the Rook saw her innocence as something valuable that he could profit from. In a small voice she said, "I thought I heard a kitty!?" her blind eyes wide in childish pleasure an expression that would have brought a smile to most people's lips save for the child's ruined eyes that stared sightless from her eye sockets. Most would look away in embarrassment or look away with shame or some other gut emotion. Not Zandra, these things did not even occur to her, it was not in her nature.

Karthans head snapped upright. "Sacredos! Agrinost can pass right through the walls of the dungeon! Without magical weapons the guards will be helpless! He said he was going to free his master and consume my pack. If there are any shadows whatsoever he can manifest from them!"

Karthan was ready to loop, draw and release in a blur if need be. He approached the cart and spoke firmly, but as calmly as he could in Elven, "Zandra get away from the shaded corner there may be danger there."

Switching back to common but in no less commanding presence, [/b]"You there get thise people out of the wagon and into the sunlight it will do them some good. Don't hesitate do as you are bid."[/b]

Back to Elven, "Olivia, Mal, where is Fir'umil we may have a problem!"

Zandra replied with a sweet chuckle. "Why yes you do hear a kitty. A very big kitty."

"If you are going to refer to me as a "kitty" then a least throw a few complimentary adjectives before it! Do not infer that I am some simple minded house cat." Thor sent with an indignent sulking emotional tone.

Zandra continued without missing a beat, her mind was accustomed to having more than one conversation or sending occurring, "His name is Thorendel and he is the most wonderful cuddly Tig-a-ugh, well in your tongue, an Elven companion cat. He is as big as a pony, but is very smart friendly and intelligent."

"wonderful yes, cuddly? Maybe not so much and don't compare me to some dumb under aged hoofed grass recycling plant! Oh well, smart, yes, friendly? Okay I guess yeah that fits. Intelligent, of course without question, but must you insist I am a companion "cat" like some sort of mundane pet!? I am a very complex animal! Don't look at me because I am looking away from you now like I am not noticing any of this. Because I am so far above this right now that ---"

"---and, he really loves belly rubs on his furry soft tummy and around his ears. With your small little hands I bet you can reach all his special getter spots." Zandra continued in that conspiratorial tone that parents will take with children pretending that the child will get more pleasure out of participating than the parent will secretly get by watching and seeks to encourage the child.

Thor's ears perked and he swiveled his great head and rose to his feet. "Belly rubs? Humm well I can't leave the child hanging now that you have promised her that. If I must participate then I shall have to swallow my pride and dignity for a bit." Thor moved to climb into the cart.

"Can we pet him!" the little girl beamed. Her siblings also chimed in and then the cart shifted as Thor brought his bulk within reach.

Oh, Thor you might be to big for this!" Zandra sent

"Nonsense! It will be fine, now please begin administering the rubs. . . Ah yes . . . Ah. . . Oh wait tell the oldest one a little higher and further back. The young one is pulling my fur a bit, but oh boy! Yep right there! Right there, yep that's the spot. Oh and the middle one can start around my chin please. I am glad I could be of service to you. A tiger as magnificent as I ever has his duties to perform."

eventually all the family members joined in and actually shared a laugh. Zandra knew that it was a positive experience that they could all share in and one that did not require sight. Petting an animal repairs ones injured spirit and trancends all ages. Also, despite his posturing, Thor was having a wonderful time as well. The big cat sent happy emotional vibes and his deep rolling purr let everyone else know that he was more than just content.

The moment was interrupted by her brother's voice. " "Zandra get away from the shaded corner there may be danger there."

Seeing nothing immediate, but knowing better than to question Zandra reacted by placing herself between the children and the shadowed corner. Feeling his mistresses send, Thor rolled to get to his feet unsettling the cart once more.

"You there get thise people out of the wagon and into the sunlight it will do them some good. Don't hesitate do as you are bid." Karthan said walking towards them.

"What on earth?---"Yes, Thor is a bit big for this cart, but if you would all please move to the other end we can continue this. The sun will do you all some good, but lets hurry now so we don't tip over."

Zandra picked up the little girl to help place her on the ground and out of danger. The little dears arms and legs were so skinny and frail Zandra was afraid to let her drop out of the cart. She knew it was really just her feminine instincts to protect. The child had weathered far worse and more vigorous dangers without being broken.

Really!? You are putting your back right to the danger!? <sigh> Mother would have done the same, but at least she would be wearing plate or sammite chain. Don't change my dearest sister, don't change for anything.

Throughout the courtyard, the tide of Liberios’ speech had receded. Clerics and paladins and squires and friars had begun going back to their regular duties while those worshippers eager to have heard the Chaplain Lord speak had departed the temple grounds.

Despite the relative ease that had settled across the courtyard, an undercurrent of tension rose near the cart recently returned from the now razed Toiling Gents. Tessy’s family were slowly disembarking the cart as Karthan was gathering the group to him.

Sacerdos, hand on the hilt of his sword, Knighteye, cast a concerned look about the courtyard as the others arrived at the cart. It seemed to his eyes that the late morning sun conjured longer shadows than was natural, but he tempered his observation with patience so he didn't blind himself to danger.

Olivia and Mal’undil came over first, followed by Fir’umil and Caleb.

”Why do I feel we are not leaving?” Fir hissed with a touch of impatience. Even for his tone, it was plain that the words and workings of his magic were gathering to the forefront of his mind.

They listened closely as Karthan recounted his concerns. Olivia was the first to feel the urgency. ”The plan was to keep him in a cell in the dungeons, watched over by clerics using summoned light to keep the Rook in check. His vampire half is still sensitive to sunlight and holy light.”

”Is there a quick way to get down to where they’re holding him? Get them the warning?” Sacerdos inquired.

Olivia nodded, pointing to a building to the side of the main temple. ”A sundries warehouse for this temple and some of the other local ones. We pool resources.” She nodded for the group to follow her as she began walking at a brisk pace towards it. ”There is a small passage to the holding cells beneath the temple, a direct access to provide food to prisoners.”

”I will stay with the family,” Caleb announced, looking on as the children were still wearing infectious smiles from their experience with Thorendel. ”I’ll ensure they are safely guarded.”

Mal looked to the rest of the courtyard, then to the temple. ”Better warn them inside too, see if they noticed anything weird.” The half elf rogue took off at a run, heading for the temple.

The rest of the group saw Olivia as she headed to the sundries building.

Follow this Link to the Temple Grounds Map. Let me know where your characters are going to go...
1) Stay with Caleb and the family
2) Go with Mal'undil to the main temple
3) Go with Olivia to hit the dungeons via the Sundries Building

Guard them well Caleb. Mal, good hunting, we will see you below. Olivia, after you, then Sacredos, Zandra, and then myself. Fir'umil is coming? Or no?

"Okay, now keep in mind that Agrinost is a shadow wolf and can only be struck by weapons of enchantment. Lets go kill that mutt and go home!"

Initiative Results
24 - Karthan
24 - Mal'undil
23 - Fir'umil
20 - Adversary
17 - Sacerdos
6 - Zandra & Thor
5 - Olivia

Inside the Sundries Building (Link)

The team enters the Sundries Building, surprising three men (acolytes based on your Perception Checks above). Olivia steps forward, eyeing the oldest of the three and holds out her hand. "The keys for the catacombs, now!"

The acolyte drops the basket of vegetables he was loading into a pantry and bows deeply, a touch of fear in his eyes when he sees the mantle of office about the paladin's neck then recognizing Olivia's face. "Chaplain-Protector, I'm not to relinquish the keys unless either..."

"Never mind that, man! This is an emergency and I will have those keys if I have to unclip them from your unconscious body!"
Olivia's Intimidate: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (20) + 3 = 23

Acolyte's Will Resist: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (9) + 1 = 10

The acolyte unclips the set of keys at his belt where they rest next to the hilt of his longsword and hands them over immediately. "Yes, Chaplain-Protector, I apologize for questioning your authority."

She yanks the keys from his hand and moves to the northside of the Sundries Building through a small alcove. There, she presses a set of rocks in the wall until a floorboard opens near her feet. Pulling the floorboard free, it reveals a keyhole which she uses to open stairs down to the catacombs.

As the team makes their way down, Sacerdos points to the three acolytes. "Close your jaws and get out to the courtyard to summon paladins to this area. If a creature or any prisoners make it past us, you are to terminate with all haste!" With that, he draws Knighteye and heads down the stairs after Olivia and the team.

---

Into the Catacombs (Link)

Once at the bottom of the stairs, a long hallway leads directly north, a heavy-iron gate bars the way. Olivia steps forward to open them with the keys provided by the acolyte.

Karthan's up!

There is a locked gate ahead of the team. Olivia unlocked the first one and is advancing into the area. There are torches along the wall providing light down here. Towards the end of the corridor, past the closed gate ahead, darkness shrouds what looks to be a curve to the right.

1d20 + 10 ⇒ (12) + 10 = 22 Perception

Karthan's ears stretch to see if they can hear anything out of place, while his eyes use the available light from the torches to see twice as well as the humans that have come with him.

"Olivia, reach out and see if you can feel the evil presence nearby. There would be at least two, but beware that the Rooks aura ought to be pretty strong. Don't keep contact longer than you need to."

1d20 + 11 ⇒ (11) + 11 = 22 Perception

Zandra listens and watches as Karthan does, but has another trick up her sleeve. She slips a hand to Thor's shoulder. "What do you smell most perceptive one?"

1d20 + 6 ⇒ (3) + 6 = 9 Perception

"Nothing smells wrong within 20 feet of us. I will check again as we move further ahead."

Initiative Order
24 - Karthan
24 - Mal'undil
23 - Fir'umil
20 - Adversary
17 - Sacerdos
6 - Zandra & Thor
5 - Olivia

***Tactical Map (Link)***
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Fir'umil

A shimmering veil of magic affixes itself to the elven wizard's form as he casts Mage Armor. He looks ahead to view whatever his senses will detect. Perception Check: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (15) + 3 = 18

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Sacerdos

Sacerdos moves into the next area, drawing his weapon and waiting for Olivia to open the next set of gates. He casts Detect Evil and you see him grip his sword all the tighter and shift his stance, ready for battle. "I'm sensing a presence all about us. Ahead, behind...above..." He looks towards the stone ceiling of the catacombs hallway, but sees nothing. But it doesn't diminish his feeling of alert.
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Olivia
The paladin advances into the next room and, seeing that the others are watching her back, she uses the acolytes keys to open the next set of gates. As soon as the gate is unlocked, she draws her longsword and readies herself.
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Karthan & Zandra - Results
Ahead of the group, the elves keen eyesight penetrates the shadow's shroud. The hallway curves to the right, the torchlight flickering along the wall causing the shadows to dance and dart. The sight is unsettling if for anything they realize the type of enemy they may face.

But what is worse, is the sound. Karthan recognizes it straight away; the wet crunching sound of bone snapping beneath flesh. Around the curve of the maybe a further beyond that, the sound of a predator taking in a meal.

Zandra opens her senses, going past the 5 normal senses and going to the realms of her forbearers. The elf maiden senses the feeling of evil all around, she senses the savage pleasure of a creature ahead of them as it sates its hunger...but she senses of this feasting predator two natures; one in this plane and one borne of another place. Through the walls and earth extending from her position in the catacombs, she thinks that this particular predator is not alone...there is another...somewhere deeper to the east of there position.

Karthan & Zandra Up!! Let me know if how you want to position yourselves on the map.

Agrinost, and where there is one wolf there are usually many.

1d20 + 6 ⇒ (13) + 6 = 19 Stealth

The cat crosses the courtyard . . . I don't have to get right up on them, just close enough to take a shot.

1d20 + 10 ⇒ (7) + 10 = 17 Perception

One cannot hit what one cannot see.

1d20 + 8 - 2 ⇒ (18) + 8 - 2 = 24 To hit if he finds a target with rapid shot.
1d8 + 3 + 1d6 ⇒ (2) + 3 + (1) = 6 Damage

1d20 + 8 - 2 ⇒ (17) + 8 - 2 = 23
1d8 + 3 + 1d6 ⇒ (7) + 3 + (1) = 11

Swift death to my enemies

Initiative Order
24 - Karthan
24 - Mal'undil
23 - Fir'umil
20 - Adversary
17 - Sacerdos
6 - Zandra & Thor
5 - Olivia
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For Karthan...
The elf dashes ahead, bow drawn, feet silent along the stone of the catacomb hallway. He hits the corner leading east and is greeted with a scene of horror. At the end of the corridor appears to be a T Junction, a brazer lighting the junction. At the foot of the brazer, a large, black-furred creature is hunched over a dead body, the white robes of an acolyte or cleric stained deep red with blood. The body of the man is shaken vigorously as the predator worries at his flesh.

The elf looses a shot from his longbow, the shaft glowing ever-so softly amidst the torchlight of the hallway, and it plunges into the back of the creature. A low rumble of pain transcends to a sound of rage as the predator takes one more bite from the dead body. It turns slowly, its shadowed form roughly 5 feet, the massive head of a wolf, fangs longer than any Karthan had seen in all his years dripped with saliva and blood.

This was not Agrinost. The torchlight flickers across the horrible aspect of something out of nightmare...a wolf's maw gapes, growling deep and threatening...but then it stands to its full height on its hind legs. The rear legs bent in a lupine twist, but its body, is thick chested and still bearing shreds of clothing.

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Fir'umil

Fir'umil rounds the corner, peering to the end of the hall and seeing the horror of what he can recognizes as a Knowledge (Arcana): 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (20) + 8 = 28..."werewolf...fisstahk!!" A bold of magical energy lances from his outstretched hand...(casts magic missle)

Magic Missle Damager: 2d4 + 1 ⇒ (1, 1) + 1 = 3 The bolt of energy takes the creature in the back, but it is the arrow from Karthan's bow that draws the grunt of pain from it.
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Werewolf
There is the dragging sound of metal as in its right hand, the creature raises a longsword...from the glint on the hilt there is the symbol of Iomedae.

The creature turns away from Karthan and the rest of the group and heads south around the corner at the end of the hall.

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Sacerdos

Sacerdos hits the corner, seeing barely a glimpse of the creature as it passes the far corner heading south.

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Olivia
The Chaplain-Protector hits the corner and joins the rest of the group. all she sees is the dead body at the foot of the large brazer.

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Updated Tactical Map (Link)

Zandra still has a move this Round... You can do her move then go to the next round since Karthan goes first.

Zandra casts magic fang, "Thor your bite may now hurt magical creatures, but your claws may not." Then moves as far as she can towards the turn in the hallway.

"Then I shall grapple them and bite their necks, these things smell foul.

Thor bounds around the corner.

Karthan realizes that the gig is now up. He swiftly double moves to the corner to loose on whatever targets present themselves.

1d20 + 6 ⇒ (2) + 6 = 8 knowledge Nature

What is the nature of that beast!? Is the Rook a monster like that as well!? We shall purge the unclean!

1d20 + 8 ⇒ (10) + 8 = 18 to hit
1d8 + 3 + 1d6 ⇒ (3) + 3 + (6) = 12 damage

Initiative Order
24 - Karthan
24 - Mal'undil
23 - Fir'umil
20 - Adversary
17 - Sacerdos
6 - Zandra & Thor
5 - Olivia
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Karthan
The elven ranger dashes ahead, his limber legs carrying him past the next corner going right, then down a few feet to another corner, this time curving to the left. As he runs, he sees two more eviscerated bodies in the corridor to the south. He sees the werewolf's back as it charges around the bend, but the elf catches him and looses an arrow.

The shaft sails over the creatures right shoulder, clanging off a wall.
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Fir'umil

"Do not let the creature bite you!" he rasps, voice lent a dark aspect with its undertone of danger. Then Fir'umil begins chanting in the arcane language of magic, drawing forth a candle and a tiny, empty bag. He leans against the wall and focuses his abilities.
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Werewolf
Will: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (9) + 3 = 12
The creature ducks under the sound of the shot and turns on its lupine hind legs to face Karthan, hatred and froth focused on the half-elf. It's teeth are bared and it growls its challenge, raising the longsword in its right, long-fingered hand.
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Mal'undil
The half-elf steps from the shadows behind the werewolf, shortsword in hand as he stabs forward at the creature who towers above him.
Short Sword Attack: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (13) + 8 = 21
Damage + Sneak Attack: 4d6 + 3 ⇒ (3, 5, 1, 5) + 3 = 17
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Sacerdos

Sacerdos dashes down the hall, hitting the corner where the werewolf had left behind the victim by the brazer. He readies to continue his stride but notes the face of the dead man. Perception Check (on body by brazer): 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (12) + 12 = 24 - By Ragathiel...

He calls out down the hallway towards Karthan and Fir'umil. "This is the face of the acolyte in the sundries building! The one who just gave Olivia the keys!"
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Olivia
The paladin comes to a halt at the corner, inspects the body and then turns back as though to return to the way you all had come.

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Zandra & Thor
The big tiger leaps into action, heading down the hall and both corners and comes to within a few feet of the werewolf, its own teeth bared ready to attack its enemy.

Zandra hits the corner and comes around, standing close enough to hear Sacerdos' announcement and seeing Olivia ready to return to the Sundries Building.
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Updated Tactical Map {Link}

Karthan and Zandra up!!

The werewolf is staggered, blood matting its black fur...but the furnace of its hatred and drive are keeping it in the fight.

In the distance Karthan hears the roar of another beast and the screams of the dying deeper in the catacombs.

Karthan had a firm footing. His weight was on the ball of his left foot, this right foot back and slightly angled. Steady the hand, true the shot. "Naeo seay tahk!"
1d20 + 8 - 2 ⇒ (1) + 8 - 2 = 7

The studden appearance of Mal'undil right in the releasing arrows path caused the ranger to jerk his bow with his wrist in order to send the sheaf arrow carrening into and skittering off of the wall above the rogues head and into the dark hallway ahead. That may alert those further ahead, but there is nothing for it now!

Strike true like lightning. Karthan steadied himself. Let this be a telling blow.
1d20 + 8 - 2 ⇒ (20) + 8 - 2 = 26
1d8 + 3 + 1d6 ⇒ (6) + 3 + (6) = 15

1d20 + 8 - 2 ⇒ (1) + 8 - 2 = 7 to confirm

Oh, min, max, min!

The werewolf opens its mouth to cry out its charge, but Karthan's arrow strikes it in the chest, sending it to the stone floor dead. Mal steps forward and watches as the dead creature changes before his and Karthan's eyes.

Vile smelling smoke comes from the body as the werewolf loses mass and shifts to human form...the face is that of Bodin , one of the Rook's bodyguards.

Mal looks back to the east. "More bodies that way. I was headin' in that direction when I heard chuckles here running up my mine shaft. I think there's another down..."

His comment is interrupted by the feral roar of a beast from deeper in the catacombs along with another dying wail.

Mal frowns. "My guess..." He kicks Bodin's dead form then turns towards the east. "...that'd be Eric trying to free the Rook."

Fir'umil is stepping towards Mal and Karthan, finishing his spell and tossing the piece of candle and the small pouch into the air. The two burst into dust and are both carried upon the wind as an Air Elemental shimmers to life before you. The elf gestures towards the eastern halls. "Find the creature that lives in two worlds, find the werewolf and steal his breath..."

The Air Elemental blows past Karthan, Mal and Thor a wailing heralding its passage.

Turn over to Zandra & Thor. Which way do you turn? Sacerdos & Olivia are going back to the sundries building. Fir is remaining with Karthan and Mal.

Updated Tactical Map (Link)

Zandra watched Sacredos and Olivia dash back towards the way they had come down into the catacombs. The two of them can probably handle just about anything that confronts them. Especially when Sacredos wields that sword. They can secure our exit, raise the alarm and protect the little ones.

New Initiative Order
16 - Karthan
13 - Fir'umil
13 - Werewolf (2)
12 - Mal'undil
8 - Zandra & Thor

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The team presses on through the catacombs, passing an altar to Iomedae with two off-shoots for rooms to the north and south. In both rooms they find guards. All have been mangled and chewed and run through with sword.

The continue east when they hear the roar of the creature again. They hit a corner and round it to find more dead, but the hallway widens to a large anteroom with the corners lit by braziers. Towards the back, they note another werewolf. This one also wielding a sword with the hilt markings of Iomedae. It is currently locked in combat with the Air Elemental Fir'umil summoned.

Check my new map and make sure that the party arrangement is good. Each box is 5 feet. Also, I've rerolled the Initiative.

Updated Tactical Map (Link)

Karthan Up!!

As Karthan comes to a stop he fires an arrow. Six left. If I survive this I vow to buy more silvered arrows and save up for some cold iron ones as well.

1d20 + 8 ⇒ (12) + 8 = 20 to hit
1d8 + 3 + 1d6 ⇒ (6) + 3 + (1) = 10 damage

If this goes close combat things are going to get ugly real quick. Dang it Sacredos, we could sure use you and that sword of yours right now. He's probably run off with Olivia to guard the kids. A valiant gesture, but if the strong do not band together to survive the weak shall also perish. . . Though that is harsh, it is the way of things.

Initiative Order
16 - Karthan
13 - Fir'umil
13 - Werewolf (2)
12 - Mal'undil
8 - Zandra & Thor

The arrow clips the shoulder of the creature, black fur puffing into the stale dungeon air as the broadhead gives the werewolf a quick haircut. But it's enough for the creature to turn and focus his attention on the elven ranger. He knows silver when he feels it.
Missed by 1

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Air Elemental
The creature of air sends its currents at the werewolf, a concussive force slamming into the vile beast.
Slam Attack: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (3) + 6 = 9 Miss!!

After the failed attempt, the elemental disappears, the spell having ended.

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Fir'umil

"Allow me, cousin." the wizard rasps. He girds his mind and begins the chant of magic once more, drawing a chili pepper from his component pouch as he steps forward. His staff thumps upon the stone floor and he leans forward ever so slightly, jaw opening as though he is going to yell at the werewolf.

But instead of words, fire erupts from his mouth in a cone shaped jet...
Fire Breath Damage: 4d6 ⇒ (3, 5, 1, 2) = 11
Werewolf Reflex: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (3) + 1 = 4

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Werewolf
The creature howls in pain as his fur burns in magical fire. Instead of going for his intended target of the ranger, the werewolf lunges for the wizard, longsword swinging wildly but mouth open to bite...
Bite Attack: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (11) + 1 = 12 Miss!!

Fir'umil is able to side step the attack, but his lungs appear to be filling with magical energies as he prepares to launch another fire attack. (next round)

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Mal'undil
Mal moves to his right, ensuring he keeps the wizard in his field of view..."Watch Fir's angles, kids!"

The half-elf manuevers into a flanking position and attacks...
Short Sword: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (4) + 8 = 12 Miss!!

Zandra and Thor up!!

Updated Tactical Map (Link0

Thor pounces on the werewolf using his magically enhanced jaws hoping that they could find purchase and leave a lasting mark on the cursed man beast.

His front and rear claws failed to even connect since he had led so heavily with his maw.
1d20 + 5 + 2 + 1 ⇒ (14) + 5 + 2 + 1 = 22
1d6 + 4 + 1 ⇒ (6) + 4 + 1 = 11

1d20 + 5 + 2 ⇒ (2) + 5 + 2 = 9
1d20 + 5 + 2 ⇒ (2) + 5 + 2 = 9

1d20 + 5 + 2 ⇒ (3) + 5 + 2 = 10
1d20 + 5 + 2 ⇒ (2) + 5 + 2 = 9

"Thor! No! Don't get bitten!"
Zandra's mind raced through her spells. Finding nothing immediately expedient she made up her mind in a split second.

[i]This one is for you mom. If you can do it so can I!"

Zandra charges into the fray the sword made custom to her hand held high as Karthan watched her rushing off with ever widening eyes.

"For Ire!"
1d20 + 3 + 2 + 2 + 2 ⇒ (15) + 3 + 2 + 2 + 2 = 24charge, flank, sword bonus
1d8 + 2 ⇒ (7) + 2 = 9

You reckless! . . . Now I have to fire into a freaking mess.

Karthan had to try and find an opening in the swirling mass of warriors and animals.
1d20 + 6 + 2 - 4 ⇒ (8) + 6 + 2 - 4 = 12
Dammit that's 5 left!

Gotta make this one count . . .
1d20 + 6 + 2 - 4 ⇒ (18) + 6 + 2 - 4 = 22
1d8 + 3 + 1d6 ⇒ (8) + 3 + (2) = 13

"Gotcha!"

Initiative Order
16 - Karthan
13 - Fir'umil
13 - Werewolf (2)
12 - Mal'undil
8 - Zandra & Thor

Fir'umil
Cursing under his breath, the wizard drops his spell, opting to take a step away from direct contact with the werewolf and whips his staff around where a Force Missile bursts from the end to strike the creature.
Spellcraft: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (5) + 8 = 13
Force Missile: 2d4 + 2 ⇒ (4, 4) + 2 = 10

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Werewolf (2)
The creature out of nightmare roars in pain and rage, lashing out with the longsword still clutched in a grip with all-too long fingers. The first few wounds begin healing, but there were so many hits, so much damage! And he's been hit by silver!! The silver in the cursed elf's arrow sears him, the flesh around the arrow beginning to bubble and shift between human and wolf forms.

Fort Save: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (1) + 6 = 7 Fails!!

His body tries to compensate for the damage done, but between the silver, the wizards magics, the beast and the elf-witches weapon the werewolf's blood flows.

His hate blooms from deep within. He will not fail his pack, he will not fail his master!! His hatred flashes outward...he can't get to the archer, the one with the silver...not yet. But there is one before him that smells of his blood, that will surely cause him pain should he strike her...

He starts with the half-elf and slashes across with all his might.
Power Attack / Great Cleave: 1d20 + 7 - 1 ⇒ (18) + 7 - 1 = 24
Damage (Power Attack): 1d8 + 6 + 2 ⇒ (7) + 6 + 2 = 15
15pts of Damage to Mal'undil, Thor & Zandra!!!

The mighty blow cleaves a bloody swath across the three enemies before him. The werewolf howls with bloody joy.

The werewolf's AC is dropped to 19 until his next turn.
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Mal'undil
The werewolf's longsword cuts across Mal's middle as he attempts to dodge. Hot blood wells along his abdomen and begins drawing red rivulets down his abdomen.

He swings his short sword about and retaliates.
Short Sword: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (12) + 8 = 20
Damage / Sneak Attack: 4d6 + 3 ⇒ (5, 3, 5, 3) + 3 = 19

Where normally his attack would have missed, the werewolf's prior assault left him open to the short sword's bite! The half-elf's swing cuts across the werewolf's right arm, nearly taking the limb off and forcing the creature to drop its longsword.

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The werewolf staggers, barely standing, but the fires of hatred burn in its eyes. It clutches wildly at first its ruined arm, then at the silver arrow in his chest.

Zandra & Thor Up!! Then Karthan for the new round!!

Updated Tactical Map (Link)

Enraged by both his own pain and that of his mistress, Thor brings his magically enchanted fangs down in a vicious attack clamping down seeking to sever his prey's spinal colum.

1d20 + 5 + 1 ⇒ (20) + 5 + 1 = 26 to hit
1d20 + 5 + 1 ⇒ (18) + 5 + 1 = 24 to confirm
1d6 + 4 + 1 + 1d6 + 4 + 1 ⇒ (2) + 4 + 1 + (6) + 4 + 1 = 18 critical natural attack damage

Thor was not giving up now, not when he was this close to ending his foe's struggles. He worried the werewolf's neck and shoulders.

"We have to finish him! Zandra exclaimed as she brought her sword down in an arc that caught there werewolf, but not as solidly as she had the last go around.

1d20 + 3 + 2 + 2 ⇒ (14) + 3 + 2 + 2 = 21
1d8 + 2 ⇒ (2) + 2 = 4

There werewolf finally succumbs to its wounds falling to the stone floor. Between the tiger and the elf maiden, blood drips from its dead body. As with the other, vile-smelling steam emits as the body loses mass and shifts back to human form. The face, mauled and bloodied of Eric stares lifeless to the side.

The catacombs fall into an exhausted silence, save for the flickering of the braziers and the heavy breathing of the combatants.

End of combat!

"Fools! Why don't you just bare your necks for the bite next time!" the wizard snarls. His staff thumps furiously upon the stone as he races to Zandra's side, withdrawing a potion for Cure Moderate Wounds from one of the secret pouches in his robes. His brow furrows as he sees the blood flowing. Fir'umil curses in elven and uncorks the potion to administer to his cousin.

"In the future I shall fashion a sign naming you all fresh meat!" Despite his harsh tones, it's clear the elven wizard is concerned over Zandra's wound.

Over to you. What to do next? The catacombs stretch further south into darkness as it curves again to the right."

"Yes, foolish and reckless! What did you hope to gain? You are our only healer right now and a pretty poor one at that I might add!" Karthan tried to sound firm, but his voice cracked with emotion. His sister weaves on her feet almost disemboweled by the werewolf's mighty cleaving blow.

He drew bandages from his bag preparing to stop the bleeding, but notices that Fir'umil has a potion. The clerics!

"Some of these people might still live. . . Or they might have been bitten."

Zandra gave a small, but weak smile with blood tinged teeth. "You would both have done the same if you had been in my position. I had my magic sword to bring to the battle, Karthan, you had your bow, Fir'umil had his magic, but I doubt he would have faired better under Eric's blow. I knew the three of us would triumph if we acted in concert. I could not just stand by while Fir'umil was in danger of being struck and losing his spell or you of being charged and unable to bring your silver arrows to bear."

"We all have our roles to play, the bond of our fellowship is reciprocal. We should thank Mal'undil for his bravery and leadership. I would not like to think that he entered that battle worried or wondering if we would stand with him."

Zandra quickly assessed those about her including those on the ground.1d20 + 8 ⇒ (16) + 8 = 24 Heal Check

"Life is a struggle, it is a part of the pattern and the cycle, just as death is. I would rather it be said that I met mine by trying to safeguard yours than I lived at the expense of yours."

Unless some one would immediately die without it, Zandra casts a light cure wounds on Thorendel.

1d8 + 3 ⇒ (5) + 3 = 8 CLW

Thor was having a hard time deescalating from combat, his mistresses pain fueled his displeasure.

My claws were not sharp, my bite will soon be of no use. We must find the undead wolf and his bondmate before I cannot bite him.

I hear you. We will continue our hunt if we can, but we must first see to these others and remember though you may best any dog on your own, you must beware of its pack. We will act as yours, but you must think as a member of a pack.

Cure Moderate Wounds Potion: 2d8 + 3 ⇒ (5, 1) + 3 = 9 over to Zandra...

Fir'umil sniffs at the work of the potion, wondering at the efforts of whatever alchemist at the Arcanamarium had formulated it.

He stepped away from his cousin and closed his eyes...casting Detect Magic to get a sense ofthe situation. "Actually, I had warned all of you regarding the danger of getting bitten." he reached into his robe sleeve, pulled out his handkerchief and dabbed at his lip, his voice was raw and his throat betrayed a cough.

But he maintained his focus, eyes closed. Something was drawing his attention upwards.

"None of these guys are alive..." Mal'undil offered. "We better get to the end of these catacombs and find the Rook."

Fir opened his eyes, holding up a hand. "Don't bother, half-elf," He crooked a finger upwards towards the ceiling. "Our enemy is not down here but above our heads...unless someone else has caused our friendly bardic benefactor to come out of retirement."

With that the elf turned abruptly, dark blue and black wizard's robes swirling about him as he moved back thru the catacombs from whence they'd come.

Mal looked after the wizard with a measure of doubt. He nodded to zandra and Karthan. "Follow him. If the Rook and his pet are up there...I'll clear the last bits here and send the clerics down so they can see to the dead and wounded."

As the dust settles from your battle, the blood pumps a little less fiercely, you hear the distant echoes of sword and steel. Zandra feels a surge of magic from up above followed by everyone hearing a powerful sonic blast.

Karthan's hand goes to his temple...the ranger perceives an image of a black wolf standing at the edge of a clearing, hunters with bow and sword bearing down upon him. The wolf turns and darts into the forest, his pursuers close behind.

Then Karthan's perspective shifts, now he's looking at a large campsite, at the center is a fire pit. Just inside the fire light is a cage holding a mighty grey pelt wolf. All around the campsite are regular humans, not hunters...no, they've been led away.

In the far distance, Karthan hears a wolf's howl...a dying call... Suddenly, out of the shadows crafted by the fire light a pack of wolves fell upon the people. As they attacked them, one wolf used its mighty jaws to open the cage holding his pack leader. The grey pelt and the rest of the pack howl in victory and depart, melting into the shadows.

...Karthan awakes from the vision as Mal'undil comes back from scouting the south. "What are you still doing here?"

Zandra is looking at Karthan, understanding in her eyes. She would not have wanted to shake Karthan out of the vision.

"Nothing further in, cells are empty, so I think we must have passed the Rook on the way in, maybe he tricked us somehow?" The rogue looked at Karthan, concern in his eyes. "Hey, kid, you okay?" He paused as another sonic blast shook the stones of the catacombs. In the distance, they could hear Fir's staff as he continued back the way they'd came. Mal grinned, "Come on, kids, let's not allow the old man to steal all the fun!