Big OM's Way of the Wicked (Inactive)

Game Master Big OM

"I am leery of using the window in such a fashion, but it may be the best way to get the drop on the guards. I do worry that the warden comes upon it if our chance should fail. Smuggling in a weapon is not beyond rational explanation. The window would relay the presence of magic. And that is the other concern, we must make sure to watch for any hazards of a mystical nature. I can keep an eye out as we move."

Lyrysa looks to the ogre. "Not to mention that would involve leaving me alone with him."

Orodreth seems surprised. This elf was was worried about a minute with an ogre? "I'm sure you could handle him. Besides it's the ones keeping him here that he will want get angry at. We'll be helping him free." Not that Orodreth liked the thought of another of the big stupid creatures free in the land. But what was one more man eating beast compared to his own freedom. Perhaps it could even create enough of a diversion for them to escape entirely free of pursuing guards. No he didn't really pitty the fate of one breast right now. He'd sell his own mother to esca-

No. Never that. I would die for her instead, why would I think that. I hope you're well mother, wherever you are now.

He had not seen any of his family for several years and figured it would be unlikely to see them again.

InfernalThere is one thing we could try that the Sgt. gave hint to. Lyrysa could call to the guards. Willing to offer up herself for say extra food or maybe some wine or whatever. You know things to make her last days as comfortable as possible. If we could have our shackles free with the illusion of still being in them when they came in we could then jump them in here. Though they may not answer the calls, but it may be worth a try. What are the groups opinion on letting as many prisoners free as we can?

Infernal Lyrysa hesitates only a moment before agreeing, "Yes, luring the guards in, that is something that I can do. And I agree with waiting until the evening to enact our plan. Darkness will help cover our escape, and with hope we will catch many of the guards asleep and out of their armor. Plus the Warden must rest to recover his magics."

Lyrysa mulls over the prisoners, "If there are others, freeing them could quite well provide us benefit. Yet they could also hinder if not cautious or too focused on revenge or slaughter rather than escape. The ogre at the least, I grow wary of releasing. Such creature's must be properly cowed to ensure their loyalty. If we can convince it, though, it may provide a distraction."

Infernal:"This plan is the best I've heard so far. I'm unsure if we should release the other prisoners, they may deserve to be here, even if we do not. But then, if they escape and we take a different route, any pursuing forces will be waylaid by attempting to recapture or kill them. We'd be long gone."

Infernal, Whispering to Lyrysa: "The ogre is a tool to be discarded at first opportunity. I would rather see it die, taking guards with it in a distraction than to see it freed to murder travellers in the countryside. Such creatures are a blight on the world."

Orodreth considers the unfolding plan, listening to each point. The 'people' he seems to be stuck with were being sensible enough but the subject of other prisoners was a messy one. "Other prisoners will get in our way. If it were possible to create a riot then perhaps. But I think in our case, not so useful. The point of using the dark to cover our escape is negated. It will be enough I think with the ogre there." He looked at the pale elf woman. Yes her beauty could be used, that was an excellent way to distract lonely men such as these guards most likely were most days and nights. Nodding he says, "If you lure them in here with your false promises and they enter the cell it will be easy for us to take them down quickly, before they might signal other guards." Yes he could see it now. Just one other issue. "I know we are working together here to escape. There is no way any of us could do it alone. After we are out of here, my visitor mentioned a location, a house, and someone who wanted to meet us. All of us. We may need to work together a bit longer and I think it will help our survival for now. Easier to be picked off one by one than a group together." He stopped, hoping everyone would want to know who had enabled their escape at least. They were indebted to her and he got a feeling that she would be upset if they didn't show up. He would rather the whole of Talinguarde's army chasing him than an angry Sorcerer...

infernalSo we go with the sneak out plan then, we take out or on only those we need to. I agree releasing prisoners could be a big liability. They could cause more harm than good. So how do we lure the guards in? We could be subtle, but I prefer direct. When we are read to strike, Mrs. Lyrusa could rip her top. We all start hooting and howling and she screems for help. The guards come in and she plays the innocent victim, when she has their undivided attention we ambush. I feel we leave the ogre out of this part. We can free him after for a meatshield. Is this suitable or do any of you have a plan?

Hey all, let me know if things make any feel uncomfortable. I have played evil plenty of time and it can get immature quickly sometimes, but with mature players it can be enjoyable to delve into darkness. :)

looking to Orodreth
I would be fine working with the lot of you. I would even draw up a contract. I am interested in who wants to speak to us.

"A contract would be most preferable. The penalty for breaching it of course, would be death. I volunteer to both witness the signings and to be the executor of the contract, in case of breach."

Tykk looks to the other prisoners.

"What say the rest of you?"

Assuming the talk of the contract was in commonRandu turns as they speak a language he understands "There was a time when if I gave my word, men knew I would hold to it. My name alone was enough, and no 'contract' was needed. However, none of you know me, and I do not know you. I'll want to read it first, but yes, I'd agree to a contract of alliance. "

If it wasn't, disregard, obviously.

With a winning smile (albeit behind a sweat soaked beard and hair) Tykk beams.

"Splendid! And of course you should read it. Any man who doesn't is a blind fool, and deserves to be on the losing end of any deal. Asmodeus would have nothing less. Orodreth? Lyrysa? Would you care to join in our pact?"

How splended to find another whom holds the Dark Prince in such high regard. I don't believe I have heard of you Tykk Raleon, but I am happy to meet you on this fine day

He beems a great devilish smile

I do hope the rest of you agree as well for what are we if not for our word and deals that we make. A simple blood oath should surfice for this as we are without parchment and pen. Each man or woman will simply cut their hand. I will anoint thee in thy own blood and say the words to Asmodeos. This will be a binding blood contract untill we meet or contact three days from now. If we choose or are swayed into sticking together further we will then forge a proper contract for later, and yes Tykk should make a fine executioner. So once master Orodreth is able to free us we will use the daggers and get the ceremony over with.

He looks over at Orodreth with child like anticipation to be free.

"It is indeed a fine day to meet another of the faithful in this miserable land of the false god Mitra. That you have not heard of me prior is understandable, as I was only recently anointed to become a Paladin in the Dark Prince's name."

Tykk begins to seethe, hatred and anger clouding his face like ocean thunderheads.

"My master, mentor and dare I say, surrogate father Amon was struck down soon afterward by these dogs of Mitra as part of their pitiful inquisition. What sort of religion is so pathetic that it demands worship and belief, rather than offers openly and honestly?"
"Truly this land is in need of a change."

Tykk's expression calms, he closes his eyes and gathers his composure. When he opens them again, he is sober and stern.

"Regardless, enough of the past. I of course, accept the blood oath willingly, soberly and without deceit."

He turns to face the others in sober anticipation.

I do hope the rest of you agree as well for what are we if not for our word and deals that we make. A simple blood oath should surfice for this as we are without parchment and pen. Each man or woman will simply cut their hand. I will anoint thee in thy own blood and say the words to Asmodeos. This will be a binding blood contract untill we meet or contact three days from now. If we choose or are swayed into sticking together further we will then forge a proper contract for later, and yes Tykk should make a fine executioner. So once master Orodreth is able to free us we will use the daggers and get the ceremony over with.

"A three day oath of alliance to each other, I am good for. But let us agree on just WHAT words will be said, priest before you do so, eh? If we trusted each other with the very words to a god before hand, we'd not need a contract in the first place."

"I did not think a contract would be necessary. Your word would have been enough. I do not care if any of you wishes to go your own way once free but I hoped you would be interested to continue to meet the owners of this veil. We are all honorable men," he looks at Lyrysa and adds, "and women. It would be stupid to turn on each other."

"As for asmodeus, I am not a true follower yet. Why would you trust me that far if I am not? Well know that I have no reason to turn you in. I know I would be given no mercy trying to do so I and would be sent back here straight away... It would not benefit me in any way to turn on any of you. This you can trust."

"Any contract or oath would depend on the nature of it's language. While I am willing to cooperate for our mutual benefit, I would want to ensure my understanding of it."

Lyrysa ponders the plan, "Such a distressed call runs the risk of them paying too much attention to the rest of you. After all, with our hands chained how could you assault me? It seems to me the best plan is to undo the chains, then I shall call the guards in. While I distract them, the rest of you can fall upon them with the daggers. After that, we will have to see what lays beyond the doors and see what lies below."

"Yes, best to keep the plan simple. Too complex and we run more risks than necessary. So, here is what we have. First, I get us all out of these chains. Second, we wait here. Pretending to be chained up. Then silence them." Orodreth nods. Then they could free the Ogre and plan the rest of their escape. "Any further alterations?"

"I'm Just trying to figure out who has a better chance of strangling a guard from behind with a chain so they can't call out," Randu shrugs.

Yes, simple does seem better. The oath is simple. As Orodreth spoke. The Oath would be to one another. The words would be your own. Contracts not needed? He laughs...My friends Asmodeous is the lord of contracts and any words you speak to him in my presence will be binding. You may choose not to commit, but we then offer no extended protections. As you say Orodreth we are all wicked men. He winks at Lyrysa... And as such our word and honor are quite questionable unless spoken before the Dark Prince. One day we may earn each others trust, but until then ceremony may be required. Don't threat it will only be a scratch on your and and only a few drops of blood. He smiles and looks upon the others waiting to hear their replies.

"Come, there is nothing to fear of your own words if they are honest."

He gives a wry grin to the wary.

"I'll even go first if you'd like, to give a proper example."

Realising they were quite serious about this contract business Orodreth spoke firmly, "An alliance then, to make sure each one of us gets out of here, none of those here in this cell to be left behind. That is my promise and terms. Till the house where our beautiful enchantress waits. Then we may part ways as we wish." They should find that acceptable. He had at least two allies to stick by. He knew the contract lord would not treat a broken one lightly and these seemed devout enough. He tried not to think that he might be more like them than he had once been when first starting out. To see them all caught and face justice. That justice he knew to be one sided. And now he had been sentenced for doing things a little differently than they had wanted him to. He wasn't sure what he would do next. But he got a feeling something was coming for him. Returning to the moment he nods to them.

Returning to the plan, it seemed to be settled. At least their initial escape from the cell. They may have to improvise as they went, depending on what awaited outside. "Let me free our arms and we may make our deal. Randu and Lyrysa, whether you want to join in or not, I am your ally till we meet our mysterious friend. I require no blood." He smiled slightly then regarded the veil once more. Where were those tools again?

are we all good to get this escape started?

Returning to the plan, it seemed to be settled. At least their initial escape from the cell. They may have to improvise as they went, depending on what awaited outside. "Let me free our arms and we may make our deal. Randu and Lyrysa, whether you want to join in or not, I am your ally till we meet our mysterious friend. I require no blood." He smiled slightly then regarded the veil once more. Where were those tools again?

"Fear not, Orodreth. I am a man who repays his debts. I swear to be your ally in return until the same, and I swear so by the name that was taken from me," He nods intently, meaning every word of that. I must trust a deserter to stand by me, but no doubt he realizes he must trust a murderer to aid in his safety. The irony of our predicament is vast. He looks to the others, "Tykk, Drogan, and Lyrysa, I swear returned alliance until that goal is met to you three as well. Perhaps beyond... as I said, I repay my debts." And father will learn the darker half of that ethic soon.

I have heard your words and as such I offer this. Allegiance freely given is met with Allegiance offered. I pledge these words before Asmodeous and as such a contract is made. My hand protects you as yours protects me. This is an oath of loyalty. Any that breaks this oath with one breaks it will all, and meets the judgment of all. I pledge this to you now my brothers.

As he ends his words he looks to the rest. I will hear your words and speak the same pledge. Orodreth if you would start to free us, I grow tired of this dank place.

"I swear upon my life, before an arbiter of Asmodeus, that I will stand true in my loyalty to the group before me for a period of three days or until we reach our destination. Whichever comes first."

"Let's get this over with, I have a powerful thirst for violence."

Sleight of Hand: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (11) + 8 = 19
Perception: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (2) + 6 = 8
Disable Device: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (14) + 8 = 22

Orodreth looks at the veil to find the tool patch and pulls it off. Careful not to drop the tools he is amazed as the patch transforms. Hoping no guards interrupt the silence he sets to work freeing his hands. Carefully opening the kit and selecting the right picks, more by feel than sight with his hands above him. It was awkward work but with each click he knew he was closer to being free. Listening intently to the job at hand and entirely blocking out the room he even closed his eyes, relying on the feel of the tools and the sounds of the lock coming undone. After a short amount of time he felt it unlock and he opened the cuffs. Hands free again. It felt good. Carefully unlocking his feet also he stands and stretches momentarily before freeing the others aswell. are our feet actually chained too?

Randu waits patiently while Orodreth works, though like the others, he longs for the escape and revenge to begin.

"I swear allegiance to you all as long as such allegiance is returned, in the path of mutual aid and benefit, until three days have passed."

As Orodreth removes the manacles, Lyrysa prepares herself to call out to the guards. Everyone in position, she calls out, "Guards, guards, I want a word!"

Waiting for the guards to approach the cell, Lyrysa does her best to appear defeated, averting her gaze when speaking. "I've thought about what was said when I was brought in." She moves to give a better view of herself to the guards. "If I must go, I'd like to at least go in some comfort. Perhaps we could...come to some arrangement. I don't have much to offer. Well, except..." She stares down as she says the last, waiting on them to make the next move.

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 10 + 1 ⇒ (15) + 10 + 1 = 26

You might want to change your plan, so I'll not push you beyond the point of no return. Let me know if you want to push ahead.

Grumblejack rumbles as Orodreth first releases himself from his restraints without any troubles. You all soon realises that he is watching in anticipation of what is to come and is laughing in joy. Being careful Orodreth manages to free all of you.

After the weapons and other equipment have been distribute everyone settles back into the chains. When the new found equipment is hidden the next part of the elaborate scheme to escape begins.

The guards have no problem hearing Lyrysa and soon after her first yell the door into floor opens. One guards stays outside watching for any foul play, alarm horm ready while the other walks over to the bars of your cell. Having heard Lyrysa's plea, he looks at her contemplating the offer, he then decides against it and says in a loud stern voice: "Shut your mouth Elf, we don't help scum like you. Next time anyone yells they'll get a thrashing." He then hurries out of the room.

Sense Motive: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (3) + 6 = 9

When they are all alone again Orodreth whispers, "I guess that isn't going to work... maybe you overplayed it." He is quiet and tries to think of another plan.

"Orodreth, do you believe you could pick the door lock from this side?"

Sense Motive: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (16) + 4 = 20

Randu fights a chuckle, and then whispers to the others, "He's too scared to enter the cell."

"I guess that isn't going to work... maybe you overplayed it."

"That is one possibility..." Lyrysa, annoyed by the rejection, considers their options while seething inside. As Randu offers another alternative to his response, she lets out a small laugh. "As well he should be. The question is what to do now?"

Sense Motive: 1d20 - 1 ⇒ (14) - 1 = 13

"Well I don't think we should just sit around here now that we are free. We can use the window on this wall behind us and climb down with the rope from the veil and hope we aren't seen. For all we know that could open onto a courtyard full of guard patrols. Or we can free the ogre and take out those two guards quickly and then disguise ourselves as guards. Take out any others we encounter before they see us. Tell me Lyrysa, will that pouch help? I don't know anything about magic but I'm guessing you didn't try using any on that guard just then.

Orodreth frees his hands and feet again, stands up and stretches, letting out a quiet sigh. Retrieving the tools from where he hid them he begins work on the door. Studying it for several moments, being as careful as possible.
Disable Device (taking 10): 10 + 8 + 2 = 20

"Wait, are we below ground? I wonder What's above us? Would the window work on that?"

"I have not yet attempted to charm them, as my selection is limited. And if their fear can overcome my natural persuasive abilities, my magical ones may be similarly hindered. If it should come to it, I may be able to disable them by other spells, such as a display of colors to drive their minds into unconsciousness. I do have a minor trick to cloud one's mind, hopefully long enough to allow you to dispatch the other."

I have Charm Person, Color Spray and Sleep. Oh and Daze, Mage Hand, Message, Prestidigitation.

Orodreth nods, for the most part understanding what she had said, "that gives me an idea. If I were to open the door over there for you, the instant after, you could blind them with your colors and while disabled, you three," he points to Tykk, Randu and Drogan, "with me, drag them back in here. Tykk and I shall change clothes with them and disguise ourselves as guards. We can chain them up here, interrogate them for what they know about branderscar and how we might escape, how many guards there are..." his voice trails off mentioning things the guards would be able to tell them.

New Plan! Feel free to argue/improve on Orodreth's thoughts.
I open door.
Lyrysa Color Sprays guards.
Drag unconscious guards back in here.
Orodreth and Tykk disguise as guards.
Interrogate guards for information.
???
Profit.

"For that to work, we'll have to kill them VERY quickly, and very quietly. If her spell is resisted, we have to kill the one that resisted and hope he didn't have sense to shout out. It's not a bad plan, and I currently have no better. I just wanted to point out where it might go wrong."

"I agree with Randu, it comes with great risk, but often great risk has great rewards. I only worry the spell spent may become more useful later. But considering what the alternative to escape is, I would vote we take this chance."

Main issues I see with it at present are quietly getting to the doorway itself, which I'm not seeing a work around anyway. Sounds good to me.

"Agreed. We should focus our assault on the guard holding the alarm horn, then the other if possible."

I'm thinking that a surprise round, and maybe half of us winning initiative should be more than enough to drop both of them.

"Agreed. Whoever has the horn dies first." Randu nods. IF this will work. If it does not, at least I shall go down fighting like the predator I am.

Here goes nothing....

"Enough of this, it's time for butcher's work."

1d20 - 1 ⇒ (5) - 1 = 4

Sigh... Stealth is not my forte.

Tykk strolls casually towards the doors, apparently unaware of just how much noise his large form makes on the damp stone floors. He stands before the door with a grim smile and a dagger in his fist. Time to go to work...

Stealth: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (2) + 5 = 7

Randu winces at something as he tries to position himself to the side.

Ok, clearly the dice favor the goodguys

Don't take it as bad stealth rolls, take it as if we're just too hardcore to care. A casual stroll if you will.

Motioning towards Grumblejack's cell, Tykk whispers to Orodreth:"Quickly, get his door open."

Disable Device: 1d20 + 8 + 2 ⇒ (14) + 8 + 2 = 24
Stealth: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (11) + 8 = 19

Orodreth makes his way over to the ogres cell and starts working on the lock. "You want to get out of here? You need to help us ok? If you help us escape, I will let you out of here. You can trust us, we hate these guys almost as much as you do. Whatever they have done to you, I promise you will get your chance at revenge. Stay quiet for now. We are going to surprise them. Hurt guards. Help us."
Diplomacy: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (13) + 6 = 19
Bluff: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (12) + 6 = 18
On account of not liking ogres I didn't exactly promise he would leave branderscar. So bluff to hope he thinks I'm his friend. Am I playing evil right?

He then moves as quietly as possible towards the guard door. The door that held their freedom.

Drogan agrees with the plan and approaches the door with the others.

stealth: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (19) + 1 = 20

Sorry guys was out sick today from work and didn't make it to the computer till now.

Lyrysa carefully removes the cuffs and proceeds to follow the others to the door, hoping her natural elven quickness is enough.

Stealth: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (9) + 3 = 12

Let me have a perception Check and then I'll proceed.

And please throw in an initiative for good measure.

Perception: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (16) + 1 = 17
Initiative: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (10) + 3 = 13