Age of Darkness

Game Master Mothman

Nicholai nods thoughtfully at the bard's impassioned statements, obviously not fully disagreeing with them. HE holds up his remaining light coin, waiting for the others to all be ready before traveling back the way they came.

"I understand your sentiment. And I must concur that I would feel much safer resting somewhere besides the cellar. I have no desire to be trapped anywhere, much less here. However, we cannot be assured that the Inquisitor will even search hard enough to discover these tunnels and the shadows of men which dwell here. And even less assurance that he would bother to dispose of them if he did."

HE leans his head to the side, and smirks as a humorous thought takes his fancy.

"I do suppose it's too much to hope that he DID discover the shadows, and that they would take care of him instead? As much as I would hate to see anyone suffer such a fate, there IS a certain, poetic irony, to the possibility!" He grins, then turns serious again.

"You must understand. I cannot allow these creatures to continue to exist. It is something I,... must do. Call it a, family trust." He offers. Nicholai looks at the others one at a time, his gaze earnest and tense. When his eyes meet Pharris', his shoulders relax just a little.

"Although, considering other revelations, perhaps you are all due for a better explanation than that." He says softly with a small smile.

"But not here, and not now! Let us leave these dark and evil tunnels, and the risk of entombment, and make our plans as we rest somewhere safer! I have faith that our noble druid can probably find us a safe spot to camp, and hide our tracks from prying eyes?" He declares in his usual self-assured fashion.

"But not here, and not now! Let us leave these dark and evil tunnels, and the risk of entombment, and make our plans as we rest somewhere safer! I have faith that our noble druid can probably find us a safe spot to camp, and hide our tracks from prying eyes?" He declares in his usual self-assured fashion.

While the others discuss what to do, Laithe all the while watches the shadows intently, wrestling with his own thoughts on how to proceed.

At Nicolai's mention of his name his is brought back from his reverie and finally breaks his gaze away from the shadows and looks towards the others. "Like Nicolai, I have no wish to leave these shadows here to prey upon those who may stumble upon them in future. But as Keildrithe point's out, the longer we stay here the more likely Vorn will stumble upon us, and we are certainly tired and in need of rest."

He pauses, looking at each of his companions in turn. "I will do my best to find a sheltered, defendable hiding spot where we can rest without Vorn stumbling upon us. However, I ask that you to return with Nicolai and I so that we may finish what we started here. Or if you truly feel you cannot, then give us the time to do so before moving on."

"I'll give these concerns further consideration once I've rested... now let's get out of here," moans the bard impatiently.

Cut scene.

As the light of Nicolai’s spells begins to flicker and fade, the group make their way back to the throne room and, with the stronger adventurers helping the weaker ones, up through the hole in the ceiling to the cellar.

Reaching the cellar, they find that the stone trapdoor leading up to the hill top has been closed. Laithe climbs up and listens, but nothing can be heard above. After waiting a short while, the group heave open the trapdoor and climb back out into the daylight. The rain has stopped (for the moment) but grey clouds remain in the sky above.

There is no sign of Alton. It is difficult to tell, given the recent rain and the skirmish of the morning, but from what Laithe and Keildrithe, whether the prints about the place have been made before or after everyone went below, and whether Alton left by foot on his own or was carried off by someone else. At least there is no sign of further violence or bloodshed – you all pray that your friend is safe.

Being unable to find Alton, and not in a state to try to follow the Artonites who retreated, the group decides to seek shelter somewhere safe.

Laithe leads the way across the narrow plateau and along the trail further into the high hills – then off the trail, north along the wooded slopes, down a small ravine, across a stream and at last, after two hours, to a sheltered clearing, carpeted in pine needles and overhung by the strong boughs of several of the evergreens.

Here, where distance and the druids precautions at covering their tracks makes pursuit unlikely, the group makes camp. Laithe instructs on how to build a fire that will produce heat but little visible flame or smoke – then he takes Pharris and Keildrithe foraging and hunting for food, the trio finding enough for a small feast.

Finally, everyone is dry, feed and, at least somewhat rested.

Looks like a safe place to camp. By the time all is done, it will be at least mid afternoon. I assume you will rest here at least overnight, so everyone will gain back at least 8 hit points for the night’s rest (plus any from healing spells, potions etc, and more if you decide to rest say for an extra day, which you may if you wish). Also, check the discussion thread for xp!

Kajetan falls silent as the others talk about returning to the caverns, while he is intrigued by the possibility of exploring down there, he is terrified of being a useless waste of skin, as he was told many times during his childhood.

The disappearance of Alton does not raise his spirits.

At the camp he keeps to him self, studying his spell books for some key to defeating the undead menace. Kajetan feels woefully out of his depth and falls fairly rapidly into a dream racked sleep where his own shadow tries to throttle him.

Best I can do against the shadows is:
a)Mage armour on the frontline so you at least get 4 points of AC protection.
b)Spectral hand to deliver chill touch, which gives them a will save or flee in panic for a short while, so we hopefully do not face all 3 at once. The hand has the advantage of being incorporeal, so no miss chance and I can use chill touch 4 touches per casting.
c)Disrupt undead against the remaining ones, but that would be into combat and cover and is not going to hit often.
d) With a day rest I could possible learn Protection from Evil to increase the front lines AC more, but I think the camp conditions would not allow this.

Pharris spends most of the time listless and withdrawn by the thoughts of a probable return to the shadows. Talk of spells and magicks to kill and protect against the undead only rubs salt in her hurt feelings.

"I wish my father were here to tell me how to face such evil." That is one comment as people start to discussion a fresh assault.

Pharris will need convincing to do this. Its the antithesis of everything lovely and elven.

Pharris spends most of the time listless and withdrawn by the thoughts of a probable return to the shadows. Talk of spells and magicks to kill and protect against the undead only rubs salt in her hurt feelings.

"I wish my father were here to tell me how to face such evil." That is one comment as people start to discussion a fresh assault.

Laithe is a little concerned when the group finds no sign of Alton above. He tells himself and the others that with a good view of the surrounding terrain the resourceful swashbuckler could have easily evaded any return by Vorn's mercenaries. Even so, a worry persists in the back of his head that something could have happened.

After setting up camp, Laithe looks around the group and notes that the morale of the group is poor - probably worse than he had ever seen it. Looking to the talents of Keildrithe for support, he does his best trying to raise the spirits of the group.

In response to Pharris' comment he says "I admit that I know little about the evil we face, and that it would be useful to have those more knoweldgeable here with us. However, I do know that I have never come across a more competent and resilient group than you." He looks at each person in turn, ending with Kajetan and holding his stare for a second or two before continuing.

"Together we have faced demons and rat-men and survived. We have been hunted by a large and determined band of inquisitors and survived. And we have bested everything we have encountered in that tomb thus far. I have confidence that together we can overcome the shadow creatures and anything else we come up against in that tomb."

At the camp he keeps to him self, studying his spell books for some key to defeating the undead menace. Kajetan feels woefully out of his depth and falls fairly rapidly into a dream racked sleep where his own shadow tries to throttle him.

Best I can do against the shadows is:
a)Mage armour on the frontline so you at least get 4 points of AC protection.
b)Spectral hand to deliver chill touch, which gives them a will save or flee in panic for a short while, so we hopefully do not face all 3 at once. The hand has the advantage of being incorporeal, so no miss chance and I can use chill touch 4 touches per casting.
c)Disrupt undead against the remaining ones, but that would be into combat and cover and is not going to hit often.
d) With a day rest I could possible learn Protection from Evil to increase the front lines AC more, but I think the camp conditions would not allow this.

After his speech, Laithe moves over to Kajetan and sits down next to the mage, asking him for his thoughts on facing the Shdows a second time. Hearing the magic at his disposal, Laithe smiles and claps him on the back.

"If their touch is indeed that deadly, then magic you have proposed sounds perfect. If we can face just one or two of them at a time, then that would be a definite advantage."

He calls over all the others to discuss options. "The magic I have at my disposal is not great for such an opponent. I can create some protections that will possibly help us resist the creature's attack if we are struck. But much of my magic is environmental - physical and I suspect it would not be of much use against things that do not obey the natural laws."

I can cast resistance to give some/all a +1 to saving throws for a minute. Faerie Fire may come in use if there is a miss chance against the creatures? Otherwise spells like Cat's Grace and Bear's endurance can give us bonuses to AC and/or Fortitude saves but I could cast a maximum of 3. And obviously I have some healing magic, but not much healp against potential drain attacks

Nicholai is as concerned as the others by the absence of Alton, but obviously overjoyed to see his feathered friend again. He scratches the feathered head affectionately, and asks Wij'kan if he saw what happened to Alton.

As they travel and look for a safe place to camp, Nicholai's spirits return to their previous, intense, brooding. He bites his lip as he walks, obviously thinking and wrestling with something.

Once they have camped and eaten, Nicholai's mood lightens, and he acts like his usual cavalier self. But even then he is unusually subdued, casting frequent glances back towards the ruined tower,...

Nicholai listens as Kajetan mutters about his spell selection. He purses his lips thoughtfully, then says, "I think that you have hit upon a perfectly sound strategy Kaj'. I can add little to it from my end. MY best contribution to destroying the 'shadows' is my force missiles. I have the much more powerful fire-ray spell that I used on the tracker, but it may pass through the shadow harmlessly."

I can also add Prot/evil to the defenses, but each one I cast takes away an MM barrage! I also have Resistance (o lvl) that I can give almost everybody. What I like about Kaj's Disrupt Undead is that even if he misses firing into melee, we don't have to worry about him hurting US! Now if we could just get rid of that pesky 50% Incorporeal miss chance! ;P

The dandy smiles at Laithe's encouraging words, and nods in agreement. He looks at Pharris, and looks thoughtful once again.

I feel a character revelation coming on here! But first I have to go write it! ;)

Keildrithe sits with his back against the tree, a morose expression on his face. "I do not like this at all... While I understand the noble intent that would lead the brave among us to one to fight the shadows, I think this is pure foolishness. First of all, we are several hours away from the tower now... traveling back there to risk our lives in an attempt to destroy shadows that currently do not threaten anyone seems foolish, as well as a waste of precious time we should be spending getting even further away from Vorn. Second, I hate to say this, but evil will always exist in one form or another -- we cannot hope to eradicate all evils from the world, but believe me when I say I wish we could. We must pick our battles... this is not one I think it is necessary to fight. Third, one of our companions has vanished mysteriously, without a trace... I think finding him should be a greater priority than going back into a tomb to kill undead spirits that are bound there...

" I WILL NOT risk even the slightest chance that my soul should fall to shadow, and wish that you would not either...That having been said, if it is the consensus of everyone else that we should go and confront these shadows, then I shall not desert but... but nor will I do battle. The most you can expect from me are words that hopefully will bolster your morale... And if course, I'll happily hand this presumably enchanted javelin to whoever wishes to wield it...

"I am sorry if I have offended you, my friends, but that is how I feel..."

Pharris kicks out at a bush, frustrated by the situation and her lack of power. Looking away towards the hill she speaks again,

"Look, Laithe, I know you can give me a magical club that I can fight with, cast a shillelagh and I have the means to stand and fight. I'll be the focus, and you all kill them while they attack me. But don't take long, because I'll run before I see us as shadowen. I've lived over one hundred years already and I intend to live plenty more."

She has tears burning down her cheeks when she finishes, "I hate this but one day a child would have come into that hole for a dare and I cannot let that happen. Not when we know we can do something. Keildrithe you are right, this is all or nothing, and I choose to fight not run. Stupid maybe but I trust Kajetan, Laithe and Nicolai to take down those foul beasts before I fall."

I am going to assume that Kajetan understand how incorporeal works, as my spell spectral hand is indeed incorporeal.

Kajetan explains "these shadows are indeed shadows, they have little or no substance that exists on this world, they are beings of another world and this world at the same time." he stumbles over his words, struggling to express how they work, "objects purely of this world, such as me, you, our weapons, even the very soil itself can not touch them, we would pass through them with out harming them, unfortunately the same would not befall us. They can touch us, reaching through our armour and flesh into our very soul, and with each touch a part of you fades away into the shadow realm, until there is nothing left of yourself and rise as one of them, hence why they are a plague, much like a disease they can creep through the darkness and multiple their numbers." He looks at Laithe, "but all is not gloom, our magic weapons and spells exist partially in their world, so sometimes they will connect with the creatures 'substance' and some spells exist fully on their world or share their powers, my magic ghostly hand being one of them, Nicolai's magic arrows being another."

Meta gaming, Faeire fire would do no good, the miss chance is because they are incorporeal, not because we can not see them clearly. I do not even remember if we get a save to resist their touch, my 3.5 is so rusty, if we do then a Fort save is a good one, but I would recommend Bulls Strength, Cats Grace and Lesser Restoration as the primary choices, along with protection from evil for the AC bonus. Force missiles are ideal, but are going to make Nicolia target number one I would guess.

Kajetan listens as the discussions go back and forth, he seems caught in the limbo of leaving the undead well alone and destroying them, not for the fact they are evil, but to find out what they guard and what prevents them from leaving their chamber.

To play Devil’s Advocate for a moment … this ruin is in an out of the way place, the entrance to the cellar was well hidden and the trapdoor hard to lift. You only found it really because the kobolds told you there was a hidden cellar below. It is pretty unlikely that anyone would stumble upon the place by accident, and almost impossible for a child to find and get in there – unless you guys left the lid open!
Not a hint either way, just sayin’…

Keildrithe curses in frustration, kicks at the dirt and stares at his feet, though it's unclear if his frustration is due to the majority apparently wanting to confront the shadows, or to him feeling that he might be viewed as a callous coward...

"Wow, things just keep sounding better," he mutters after Kajetan shares what knowledge he has concerning shadows.

"There isn't a village for miles around, and no child could pry that stone slab loose... so I don't know who we're worried is going to find the place... if it's Vorn, then he gets what he deserves if he falls to them..."

Frustration is strictly in-character, of course!

My MM might make me unpopular with the shadows, but your spectral hand isn't going to make them like you either Kaj! ;) BTW, GREAT RP'ing guys! Keep it up! :)

Nicholai idly rubs his chin, now rough with the shadow of unshaven beard. (And somehow he manages to make it look dashing instead of unkempt!) He nods once, having obviously reached some internal decision. He looks to Keildrithe, and smiles warmly. There is no hint of mockery or derision in his face, only genuine warmth.

"I understand Keidrithe, and part of me very much agrees with you!" He says softly but firmly into the conversation. "Perhaps if I were smarter, I would be making the same arguments!" He grins roguishly.

"And lest I seem callus, I confess that I too am worried about our missing friend. But, we also lack any obvious proof that he fell victim to an attack. And knowing his ability to defend himself, I prefer to think that he left of his own volition." He says, but it obvious that he is not entirely convinced of that,...

"However, besides agreeing with Pharris that I cannot allow anyone to stumble upon those, creatures, accidentally, even if it be years after I am dead and gone, there is,... another, reason." He says uncertainly. He shakes his head.

"While I am, rarely, at a lack for words, I do not pretend to have your gift of telling tales Keildrithe. So I shall simply relate my story."

Nicholai thinks for a moment, then gives a half-smile and begins,...

ACK! have to go back to work RIGHT now! I'll be back tonite, (if you all haven't KO'd Nicholai because of the unintended cliffhanger by then!) ;P

She has tears burning down her cheeks when she finishes, "I hate this but one day a child would have come into that hole for a dare and I cannot let that happen. Not when we know we can do something. Keildrithe you are right, this is all or nothing, and I choose to fight not run. Stupid maybe but I trust Kajetan, Laithe and Nicolai to take down those foul beasts before I fall."

Retrospective, before Nicolai's imminent unveiling...

Laithe balks at Pharris' intent. "Let it be known that I would never expect or condone one of the party being used as bait to buy time for the rest!! If these things are as dangerous as Kajetan says and we do decide to return there, I would not send you in to face them, unless I was standing by your side."

He looks thoughtful for a moment and then gives another suggestion. "Perhaps we can rid ourselves of these creatures with minimal risk to ourselves? They appear to be contained to their room, so we can possibly destroy them, or at least one or two from a distance? It would exhaust us of a fair amount of magic, but it will avoid the risk of their deadly touch."

Unfortunately I had already checked Shillelagh and was a touch surprised it's magic only works when the club/staff is wielded by the caster! I think this was an ammendment from previous versions of the spell, possibly on account of the normal solitary nature of the druid?However, I could cast magic stone, which would gives 3 x 2d6+2 attacks vs undead! Perhaps this, combined with disrupt undead, magic missile, javelin attack etc would allow us to at least knock one or two out without ever facing them directly in hand-to-hand.

Ack! sorry! Worked this weekend, and then I HAD to watch the Saints win the Superbowl! (Still can't believe they actually did it! H@ll must be FREEZING right about now!) :D
I'll post the promised tale asap! I agree with Laithe's plan of magic/ranged assault. Unless attacking them somehow releases them, that is the best option we have (currently) for dealing with them.

Nicholai steeples his hands together, tapping his lips thoughtfully with his forefingers. It is unusual to see the dandy so, retrospective. Finally he lifts his head with a small, charming smile.

"Well, to begin with, I never knew my parents. I was an orphan. Oh I'm not bemoaning my lot. I had a pretty good childhood despite that, all things considered. Although I did develop a penchant for finding trouble. I seem to have almost as much luck finding trouble as I do getting out of it!" He shrugs his shoulders.

"What can I say? I have a trustworthy face!" He grins.

"I developed my, magical skills, fairly early on, but was smart enough to keep them hidden. Mostly. Still, I knew that I was different from the other children. Even as I was raised to respect Arton and the church, I knew that I didn't, quite, fit in."

"My parents remained the larger mystery. All anyone could tell me about them was that they were merchants who traveled a lot, drove hard bargains but never took advantage of the less fortunate, and by all accounts were good, respectable citizens. That, and a box of trinkets, were all I had." He says, absent-mindedly touching the winged pin holding his half-cloak on. "Apparently they left one day for a trading journey, and never returned. No one knows what happened to them."

"It wasn't until I met Wij'kan that I got my first real clue about my parents. Wij' is not your typical hawk. Even for a familiar. For one thing he can speak. Laithe, you remember appreciating the golden feathers among his plumage? He tells me his father is a Celestial. Apparently he sensed a kindred spirit in me. That was my first clue. That, and the fact that most of the spells I can cast seem to be light or positive energy based, lead me to believe that my parents may not have been, entirely, human." He glances aside to Pharris, but it happens so quickly that it possible it may have been a trick of the shadows over their resting place.

"At any rate, Wij and I became fast friends, and before either of us realized it we had formed an empathic bond. Wij' became my familiar, And I was never happier than the day I discovered that!" He beams, looking up into the trees fondly.

"That, sadly, was the highlight of my life. Once I determined the source of my powers, I realized that,... Well. I won't bore you with details." He gives a small smile.

"Suffice it to say that I have determined to use my gifts for the good of others. I am determined that this is my life's mission. My 'family trust', if you will. Now I have seen these, 'shadows', and they are worse than I ever dreamed possible when I read about them. They are a danger not only to one's life, but one's soul. I must make sure that they never pose a danger to anyone. Ever. The people who now hunt us, despite their evil deeds, they are human. We can reason with them. We can pray that they will see the error of their ways. These shadows are evil incarnate. Relentless. Remorseless. Their very gaze chilled me to the bone. I swear I felt my soul grow cold. As long as they continue to exist, they are a danger. I cannot,... I must not, allow them to destroy another soul." HE looks at the others, eyes wet with unshed tears, almost imploring them to understand,...

"The people who now hunt us, despite their evil deeds, they are human. We can reason with them. We can pray that they will see the error of their ways. These shadows are evil incarnate. Relentless. Remorseless. Their very gaze chilled me to the bone. I swear I felt my soul grow cold. As long as they continue to exist, they are a danger. I cannot,... I must not, allow them to destroy another soul." HE looks at the others, eyes wet with unshed tears, almost imploring them to understand,...

Laithe listens intently to Nicolai's story, glad that they had earned his trust enough for him to open up. He nods as the sorcerer finishes, to indicate he does indeed understand.

"You are all aware of my feelings on the matter of returning, though I concede your point Keildrithe that there are few settlers nearby likely to stumble upon the ruins. Yet I've been thinking that the trip back to the tomb may provide some other advantages. For one, it will give me an opportunity to search for Alton's tracks and find out where he has gone to. I worry for him despite my belief that he is safe."

"On the second point of Vorn, it may also confuse our pursuers and give us an opportunity to catch him unawares. I for one am getting sick of constantly fleeing from him. If he remains nearby, then perhaps it is time we stalk him. His party has been weakened by the recent battle, and he is far from the aid of the church. And asides from that, I have a personal score to settle with him." The hard gleam in Laithe's eye speaks of how that score might be settled.

Keildrithe meditates silently on Nicolai's words for a while. Then, the bard rises to his feet, and claps the dandy firmly on the left shoulder. "Thank you, Nicolai. Now that I truly understand what this means to you, I will follow you back to the tower and do what must be done. I myself will do battle with these shadows if I must. I hope you can forgive my earlier reticence..."

"You are all aware of my feelings on the matter of returning, though I concede your point Keildrithe that there are few settlers nearby likely to stumble upon the ruins. Yet I've been thinking that the trip back to the tomb may provide some other advantages. For one, it will give me an opportunity to search for Alton's tracks and find out where he has gone to. I worry for him despite my belief that he is safe."

"On the second point of Vorn, it may also confuse our pursuers and give us an opportunity to catch him unawares. I for one am getting sick of constantly fleeing from him. If he remains nearby, then perhaps it is time we stalk him. His party has been weakened by the recent battle, and he is far from the aid of the church. And asides from that, I have a personal score to settle with him." The hard gleam in Laithe's eye speaks of how that score might be settled.

"You speak my language, brother, and share my thoughts on Vorn. Let us take the fight to him, and end it once and for all..."

He then looks from Nicolai, up into the trees towards Wij'kan, then to Pharris, Kajetan, and back to Laithe. The Karand beams with an intense warmth that has long been missing, that may never even have been witnessed before by his companions... "We truly are blessed to be among such remarkable company, are we not?" he says to the druid, with whom he has now shared the road the longest...

Keildrithe meditates silently on Nicolai's words for a while. Then, the bard rises to his feet, and claps the dandy firmly on the left shoulder. "Thank you, Nicolai. Now that I truly understand what this means to you, I will follow you back to the tower and do what must be done. I myself will do battle with these shadows if I must. I hope you can forgive my earlier reticence..."

Nicholai stands as well, and clasps the bard's shoulder in return.

"There's nothing to forgive. As I said. If I were as smart as you, I wouldn't be in such a hurry to head back either!" The dandy says with a beaming smile.

Nicholai nods in agreement with the druid's assessment of the situation.

"I agree, it would be nice to be following HIM for a change. Let us see how HE likes it!" He says with a grin.

"You speak my language, brother, and share my thoughts on Vorn. Let us take the fight to him, and end it once and for all..."

He then looks from Nicolai, up into the trees towards Wij'kan, then to Pharris, Kajetan, and back to Laithe. The Karand beams with an intense warmth that has long been missing, that may never even have been witnessed before by his companions... "We truly are blessed to be among such remarkable company, are we not?" he says to the druid, with whom he has now shared the road the longest...

"Indeed" Laithe replies, warmed to see some of the fear and anxiety melt away from the group. He looks over to Pharris and Kajetan to ensure that they are comfortable with the planned course.

"We should probably think about rest and preparation in that case? It would do well to rise early and get back there by sun up. I will take the final watch of the night. I have some healing left for those who are of need; though regrettably only a little..."

Laithe has 3 cure minor wounds (1 hp each) for those who could use a little. Not sure who's carrying wounds, so just let me know if you could use.

d) With a day rest I could possible learn Protection from Evil to increase the front lines AC more, but I think the camp conditions would not allow this.[/ooc]

I would allow you to learn it, given a day (but camp conditions would not be ideal for copying it into your own spellbook). You have a copy of Protection From Evil from another book. You would need to decipher it (using Read Magic or a DC16 Spellcraft check) then spend a day studying it – a DC 16 Spellcraft check at the end of the day means you learn it and can prepare it straight from the other spellbook. However, until you get a chance to copy it into your own book, you would need to cast Read Magic again (or make the spellcraft check) everytime you wanted to prepare it from the other book.

Re Laithe’s comment on healing, what is everyone’s hit point status? If anyone is grievously wounded, it might make sense to rest for longer before you go back in …

Re Laithe’s comment on healing, what is everyone’s hit point status? If anyone is grievously wounded, it might make sense to rest for longer before you go back in …

I've already added my hit points for the night of rest and recharged spells and bardic music, and that brought me back up to max.

My hit points are at max, I had false life running in the last battle so never got wounded.

I don't think there is a need to spend a day learning protection from evil when we have a plan, so I will try and get my changed spell selection up ASAP.

Kajetan can't fully meet the others gazes as they talk and share a bonding moment, although he has faced imps, inquisitors and worse, he often feels like the weak link. He frowns and mutters some mantras under his breath to cleanse his mind, ready to receive the raw power of the spells he will need today.

Re Laithe’s comment on healing, what is everyone’s hit point status? If anyone is grievously wounded, it might make sense to rest for longer before you go back in …

A full night's rest would bring Laithe up to about 75% of his total hit points. If any cure minor wounds spells are unclaimed, he'll use them to bump upto 80%. I also intend to take a few cure spells when he recovers spells overnight. Unless Pharris or Nicolai are significantly hurt, he's probably ok to go tomorrow, but also ok to wait a day if needed. If this is the case, then it also have the added bonus of allowing Kajetan to scribe Protection from evil. So I'm happy either way.

Already added the full nights rest in on my char sheet as well. Nicholai is up to full HP, (He was hurt, but not too bad) and with a full complement of spell slots! :) He also has 3 total potions (1 from ratman, 2 of the antique clay jar healing potions. That should help with Healing backup!)

I can cast Prot/evil, but that would lower the amount of MM's I can cast. And (metagaming JUST a little bit!)I don't think the 'extra protections' the Prot/evil provides is worth it against the shadows, and that Mage Armor would be more useful. (Although a +2 to every save, including str drain, is never something to sneeze at! And perhaps I should re-think that last statement!) :)

A nights rest puts Pharris back on full hit points, its her 12 strength that is a bit more of a concern though. I think that Nicolai should prepare a mage armour for her if we intend to end up toe to toe at all. Otherwise she can just throw stones, magic stones that is.

At Nicolai's tale, the withdrawn Pharris goes for a walk out of the camp. She is only gone for a few minutes but when she returns she gives him a small white flower, its petals flecked with purple.

"In elvish, this is amananiletam or Ladies Hope, I hope that you find what you seek, I will help all I can."

At Nicolai's tale, the withdrawn Pharris goes for a walk out of the camp. She is only gone for a few minutes but when she returns she gives him a small white flower, its petals flecked with purple.

"In elvish, this is amananiletam or Ladies Hope, I hope that you find what you seek, I will help all I can."

Nicholai gently accepts the small flower. He gazes at it for a silent moment.

"It's beautiful." He says softly, looking not at the flower, but into Pharris' eyes. "Thank you."

Nicholai gently tucks the small flower into a button hole on the collar of his half-cape. He then looks up with his usual rakish grin.

I can cast Prot/evil, but that would lower the amount of MM's I can cast. And (metagaming JUST a little bit!)I don't think the 'extra protections' the Prot/evil provides is worth it against the shadows, and that Mage Armor would be more useful. (Although a +2 to every save, including str drain, is never something to sneeze at! And perhaps I should re-think that last statement!) :)

+2 AC and +2 save isn't a bad option, but if we are planning to try to minimise the amount of hand-to-hand combat then you're probably right in sticking with MM. Pharris, Laithe will take Bull's Strength as a spell which would boost your strength to 16. Will come in handy when throwing/slinging magic stones and/or in hand-to-hand combat.

Seeing that no wounds appear to be bothering the others, Laithe moves over to the edge of the camp and settles down. He casts the last of him minor healing magic on the worst of his wounds. He then closes his eyse and spends some time in communion with Ehlonna, praying for strength, guidance and aid in the upcoming battle.

Alright, is everyone ready to move on? Don’t worry if spell selections and such haven’t quite been nailed down, just want to know what the next step is at this stage – are you resting for the afternoon and night and then heading back to the tomb in the morning? Resting for an extra day? Planning on descending into the tomb, searching for Alton, heading out after the Inquisitor, what?
If there is more in or out of character discussion to be had to resolve these questions, that’s cool, just don’t want things to stall – if a conclusion has been reached and I’ve missed it, let me know.

OK, seems like we don't need to rest an extra day for healing, the only reason I can see would be for Kaj to scribe Prot/evil into his book. Which is NOT a bad idea!
I'm 50/50, I don;t want to wait and risk getting tracked by Bad Guys, but Kaj's Prot/evil would be a big help, and free up my MM's. SO I'm good either way.

EDIT- Warning, MArdi Gras is Tomorrow (Tues) so I may be out of touch all day/night. But I'll see you all the next day!

Ready whenever... sounds like it's up to Kaj, really. I'm willing to wait an extra day, if necessary... although I'm also inclined to think that the sooner we act, the better, and the lesser the likelihood that we will be surprised by our opponents.

Out of character I would like to scribe the spell, but in Character, I don't think Kajetan would wait when we have also 'lost' Alton. So I say we go ASAP.

Spells Prepared

With the resolution made to set out back towards the ruined tower in the morning, the group settles in for the night, Laithe taking first watch.

Whatever the reputation of these lonely hills in Lichford, and whatever evil may sleep uneasily beneath that tower a few miles away, the night passes uneventfully, apart from a few rustles of the underbrush throughout the night, a strange cry (that might have been a bird, or might not) somewhere in the distance around midnight, and the far off howl of a wolf a few hours before dawn.

In the morning, the group packs up their camp, and Laithe and Keildrithe lead the way back through the woods, up the ravine, across the stream, and after a couple of hours the small, rounded hill and the broken and jagged remains of the old watch tower come into view across the plateau, a quarter of a mile away.

The day is mostly cloudy, and there is a light breeze, a chill in the air, but visibility is good. There is no obvious sign of Artonite soldiers or other dangers.

In the morning, the group packs up their camp, and Laithe and Keildrithe lead the way back through the woods, up the ravine, across the stream, and after a couple of hours the small, rounded hill and the broken and jagged remains of the old watch tower come into view across the plateau, a quarter of a mile away.

The day is mostly cloudy, and there is a light breeze, a chill in the air, but visibility is good. There is no obvious sign of Artonite soldiers or other dangers.

Seeing the ruins of the tower come into view, Laithe scans the landscape around carefully, holding one hand above his eyes to ward off some of the glare of the clouds above. "Can you see anything Keidlrithe?" he asks as he scans the area, looking for signs of Alton, Vorn's band or anything else of note.

spot check 17 + 9 = 26

Assuming they spot nothing interesting, he will then lead the party back down to the tower.

Seeing the ruins of the tower come into view, Laithe scans the landscape around carefully, holding one hand above his eyes to ward off some of the glare of the clouds above. "Can you see anything Keidlrithe?" he asks as he scans the area, looking for signs of Alton, Vorn's band or anything else of note.

Keildrithe shields his eyes with his hand, scanning the tower and the surrounding environment. "No, nothing," he replies.

Spot: 7 + 3 = 10, could Aid Another to increase Laithe's check result to 28.

Pharris definitely keeps a watchful eye out for danger as the band approaches the hill. She fully expects to see the shadows attack or soldiers.

"What happened to Alton?" she says more than once.

Kajetan stands, basking in the warmth from a rare beam of sun light that works it way through the tree canopy. "I can not remember the last time I was warm," he mutters under his breath. He looks around at the others, trusting their instincts over his poor eyesight, damaged from too many days spent hunched over books, working by candle light.

I won't even bother with a spot check with that roll.

You spot nothing of interest, nothing that looks out of the ordinary … of course, even Laithe’s sharp eyes would not be able to see anyone or anything that might be lurking on the far side of the hill, or otherwise out of line of sight.

The wind calls mournfully …

Keildrithe shields his eyes with his hand, scanning the tower and the surrounding environment. "No, nothing," he replies.

"Nor I" he replies, though his eyes linger a while longer, drinking in the beauty of the rugged landscape.

Reluctantly forcing his mind back to the task at hand, he turns to the others. "We could navigate a circle of the area in order to get a view of the hill from all sides" he says, pointing out the route as he talks. "It will take more time, (and keep Kajetan here out in the cold a little longer)" he adds with a gentle smile "but it might be a wise choice lest Vorn remains nearby?" He looks questioningly at the others to hear their thoughts. "Or else we could head straight down to the hill..."

"Yes, taking the long way around sounds wise. Doing so might also provide us with hints concerning Alton's fate..."

"That sounds ominous, Alton's fate."

Pharris starts to hum an old nursery rhyme, just to ease the tension in her muscles and strengthen the sword arms.

She speaks common without realising,

"......watch out, better take care. The shadow elf is coming to camp. He's making a list, he's checking it twice. He's going to find out who is naughty or nice, The shadow elf is coming..."

It tails off near the end, when Pharris realises that this sort of thing probably isn't helping. As they walk, she pulls off her bow and wipes it with a belt rag, testing the drawstring.

"That sounds ominous, Alton's fate."

"Ummm, right... I meant, "whereabouts"... My apologies for the unfortunate choice of words." The bard seems a little bit embarrassed by his slip, but raises an eyebrow as Pharris starts to hum her odd tune.

She notices the eyebrow and shrugs, "its a rhyme to get your precocious elven children to behave, and since a childhood can last more than forty years, you need plenty of help. As for shadow elves, they are just a myth."

Mothster

Alton:

Kajetan smiles at Laithe's comment, "I would prefer company over warmth any day,", slightly reluctantly he steps out of the sun light and falls into place behind the others.

"One day when this is all over," he talks to Pharris, "you will have to tell me of your childhood and your people, there is so much in the books that you seem to dispel as myths or Alton lies." As he walks he withdraws his note books and starts scribbling in it, repeating the tune several times under his breath to get the words correct.

"One day when this is all over," he talks to Pharris, "you will have to tell me of your childhood and your people, there is so much in the books that you seem to dispel as myths or Alton lies." As he walks he withdraws his note books and starts scribbling in it, repeating the tune several times under his breath to get the words correct.

I think you meant Arton lies... Alton is the halfling in our party... easy to get them confused, when they're just one consonant apart! ;-)