Bone March

Game Master farewell2kings

Prior tae going upstairs tae break his fast, Belric will conduct his devotionals and rekindle his divine spirits. He will call upon his Lords will and heal himself of the remaining aches and pains of the previous day. 1d8+4=9 mooch better now, Ma body dinnae feel like a bag o broken bones

Going on upstairs he will see Agathon, Jaques and Thaddeus at the table already eating. “Ach ye be looking mooch better taeday, that be for sure as ma beard be bushy n red! But ma be thinking ye still be needing some o my Lord’s healing. 1d8+4=6, 1d8+4=5, 1d8+4=6

After getting his fill of porridge Belric will wink his emerald hued eye at the cook and will offer tae cut any wood for the cooking fires and such. “Ma shoulders need tae unkink, an if it needs tae be done, then I will do it”

Belric will get the wood axe “Tsk, this be dinnae way tae keep an axe,” He will pull out his wet stone and oil and put a fine edge tae the old wood axe, and cut up as much wood in the next hour or so that will be needed.

Belric will see Thaddeus leaving to the city laying wood axe down, and call out to him.
Thaddeus

At the Gnolls Head

“ BARKEEP, DRINKS FOR EVERYONE!” Belric will shout out, while holding up his waraxe.

if a platinum will cover the cost he will lay that down, DM just let me know the cost and will deduct it from my sheet.

After dishing out the cost, Belric will grab Ebbers give him a hug wit his left arm while gazing on his family waraxe. “Ach ye need tae staey wit me at ma and ma mates manor. First, BRUHAH!” Belric taeeasts and chugs his ale down. “Lad, I will come an help wit the liberation o Spinecastle, but I will need tae talk tae ma mates and see if thay will help.”

Belric will point “See that large lad wit all da scars bearing that huge blade, that be Agathon. He can take an ungodly amount o bleeding, and still slay his foes wit a single blow! Why in our last fecht he slew four gnolls. Leuk o’er thare that dark haird lad trying ta leuk so severe, well he skelped four heself. O, an Master Thaddeus thare, well his magic undone at least three turning them inta so mooch mulch!” Belric will take his freshly filled tankard, quaff a healthy amount of ale, “Ye see thair help be mooch needed tae bring da clan hame. “

Belric will signal the other party members to meet him at a clear table, “Lads, this ‘ere be Ebbers a Silveraxe clan friend. He will be coming wit us ta liberate the fort. “ Belric takes another drink, “An I hae a favor ta ask ye. Ye see ma fowk need help in liberating our clan home, Spinecastle.” Belric will make little circles in some spilled ale not meeting anyone’s eyes. “Ebbers wuid ye be so kind as tae explain what is needed?”

At the end of the days before we leave with one full day of complete bed rest and natural healing for the remainder of the time: Agathon will be at 47 Hit Points (full); AC 21.

And so another day begins…

For the remaining time before the mission begins, Agathon will marvel at his new sword and will test it out in practice. He will also begin the process of packing for the new journey being fully healed by the end of the third day… He will ask Thaddeus to store 25 pounds of good field rations (25 days of rations) into a vial. And, he will woo Margarette (but always remaining a gentleman…).

Here is the listing of what items from party treasure that each character now owns. Whether by clever DM design or by total chance, we all ended up with about the same number of items! The values are a bit skewed with Belric getting the least money value of things and Thaddeus getting the most valuable item (the wand is worth 21,000 GP!). But, I think that this is a good split for function...

At this point, we are ready to roll out of town with the relief force.

27th day of Flocktime: The last few days have been quiet in Knurl. No pitch balls have been hurled over the walls, but scouts and spotters report definite activity beyond the walls and in the trees and bushes beyond the cleared area around the City. Refugees are no longer streaming in. The Count stated that those who haven't made it into the City by now, probably won't make it out.

Heavily armed barges take large groups of refugees south across the river. Those who don't want to risk staying in Knurl and who can afford to pay for mercenary protection or bribes to the bandit lords are choosing to take their chances in the Great Kingdom or hope to make it to Nyrond.

The relief party gathers in the courtyard of the Count's redoubt. You are among them. Over two hundred infantry, mostly human, some dwarves, some gnomes and a couple of others are going to be led by Sir Gendar. 40 light cavalry will act as scouts and skirmishers. They are led by Gordon Harleaf, an aging half elf in woodman's garb, who is sipping hot tea from a wooden mug as the troops assemble and are inspected by the Count.

A gnome slides into formation next to you, nudges Belric and winks. "Hey, I'm Ebbers," he tells everyone in the party. I'm from the Flinty Hills and I will help lead the gnomes that are going to help this whole company reach its objective. Hope you guys are ready for a fight."

The Count gives a rousing speech and there's lots of hurrahing and cheering.

Ebbers says quietly. "You know this is a diversion, don't you?" before moving among the other troops, shaking hands with an occasional NCO and slapping a horse on its butt (having to reach up to do it!).

Thaddeus is at 20/20 hit points and is AC 16. DM note: on further consideration, I took mirror image instead of eagle's splendor as one of the spells from Cephali. Recent pincushioning experiences lead me to believe that humanoids are not responsive to negotiation.

Thaddeus will attempt to identify any other wizards in the column, just to know who any of them are. If necessary he will ask a passing officer or NCO: Look for wizards in the column (1d20+4=19)

He will hand his mule off to the packmaster for inclusion in the baggage train, and fall in formation where Sir Gendar tells the party to.

If his oldest brother (a corporal in the city watch) is on the walls, Thaddeus will catch his eye and nod grimly. If he is in the column, Thaddeus will mentally mark his position and role.

He will fix Ebbers with his best "of course I know that!" look: Bluff on Ebbers (1d20+5=16)

Could what the gnome says be true?

Belric is at 31/31 hp, AC 22

Belric will mount his horse, make sure his family heirloom is secured, his new cloak fastened and ach that Count surely can be a windbag. Lets get this war going Belric’s thoughts are telegraphed through his blowing mustachios.

“Ebbers, lad what be ye yapping aboot? Of course I know ye” Belric will look hard at the gnome, and sensing something off he will try to pin point what it is sense motive1d20+4=12.

hmm, something seems off...I wonder...

Belric will inspect his newly obtained heirloom and make sure it is not some forgery or glamoured item to appear as his grandda's waraxe.

Agathon is at 47/47 Hit Points, AC 21.

Before falling into line with his fellows, Agathon will accompany the pack master to the supply train with his own mule (Paco). “Now Paco… Walk steady, obey the pack master’s words and whip. And never shy from the sun light!” Ignoring the look from the Pack Master and his crew, Agathon will pat the beast on the head and rejoin his friends.

Listening to the Count’s speech, Agathon is encouraged as to the importance of the mission and finds himself anxious to go. “Well, I suppose we shall soon see why they call him SIR Gendar…” Agathon will smile at his irreverent thought…

He heard the rumors earlier that the forces yonder had stopped attacking the city and that something must be brewing… “Perhaps it is the deep breath before the plunge”, he suggested to one of the Dwarven warriors on the way to the gathering earning a scoffing sound and a blown up mustache for his trouble.

Later, in line when the Gnome introduces himself, Agathon will reply with all courtesy, “Good morning to you, Master Gnome!”

Ebbers speaks:

“ You know this is a diversion, don't you?”

Agathon sees Thaddeus’ expression toward Ebbers and closes his mouth, staying his commentary.

After the diminutive fellow moves on, he will shoulder over to the wizard and quietly say, “Thaddeus? For what are we to be a diversion? You obviously know what this is about…”

With Thaddeus’ answer in the negative, Agathon will say, “Hmmm. Well then, I suppose we shall find out together…”

With his grin large and truly lopsided, he will widen that grin when he spies Margarette in the gathering crowd and gives her a confident wave good bye…

AC 22; HP 38/38

Jaques joins the others in the courtyard, his clothing and pack looking freshly cleaned and mended. No loose threads to drift in the breeze, no loose buckles flapping, straps bound down with cord with no loops to snag, and all visible metal fire tarnished to prevent sunlight flash.

His hair is cropped as close as the first time the group met him.

There are no signs of the fatigue or injuries of the long ride back to the city. He's wearing the new gloves, and seems to be paying close, calm attention to all that is going on in the courtyard gathering. He sits astride his horse, next to Thaddeus.

He eyes Ebbers as the gnome speaks judging words against body language sense motive 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (5) + 3 = 8, but sees nothing out of the ordinary.

He shifts his shoulders, stretching muscles, loosening his neck. His confidence and purpose renewed, the hint of what might be a smile plays around one corner of his mouth. Real adventure, and I'm a proven veteran now.

There are four barges that will carry the troops across the river. Thaddeus notes four other wizards--they introduce themselves during the wait to get the barges ready. Glenn, Herbeck, Shatra (female human) and Nio (male gnome)...all seem to be around 4th to 6th level. There are also several clerics. The wizard spell selection seems to center on detection spells to help the troops avoid ambushes, plus a couple of big bang spells to take out enemy spellcasters. They state that Sir Gendar's bodyguards probably carry a couple of enchanted arrows to slay enemy spellcasters.

Ebbers leads your party, 10 cavalry and about 50 infantry on to the first barge. The bargemen push off and the barge slowly moves across the river. All 50 infantrymen have missile weapons ready of some sort, most have light crossbows.

You land on the other side and move off tactically into the woods and terrain, setting up a salient for the others to land in safely.

Six gnomes emerge from the trees, greeting you and Ebbers. They will lead you north. Ebbers suggests you move ahead with him and some other gnomes. The main body will form a couple of hundred yards behind you. Ebbers wants to sniff out danger before it hits the troops.

100xp for RP

As the troops begin what would otherwise be a somber march from home, the Sun comes from behind a small cloud and strikes Agathon in the face. The warmth of his God’s light pours into his heart and he feels stirred to lift up his voice in song for these brave souls marching forth from the walls…

A Perform Check to see how well Agathon sings: (1d20=13)

Not perfect. But not a “failure either…” I am calling this “The Glory March of Greyhawk” (with names changed to Knurl)… Actually, it is, “The March of the Men of Harlech” A Welsh battle hymn… It just seemed appropriate…

The hope is that others who have been around Greyhawk might know the song and join in… If not, they should at least appreciate the sentiment…

If the reaction of the troops is quiet and reserved:

Agathon will smile broadly until he looks past Thaddeus and sees Jacques’ very clear look of “Have utterly lost your mind!?”

At which point he will state loudly, “Warriors of Knurl! Forgive my poor voice… But hear my words! You are valiant and your cause is just! I am honored to be included in your company!”

If the reaction of the troops is to sing a long or to cheer afterwards:

Agathon will stand up in the stirrups and will exclaim: “Warriors of Knurl! Forgive my poor voice… But hear my words! You are valiant and your cause is just! I am honored to be included in your company!”

Agathon will smile broadly at Thaddeus until he looks beyond his friend and sees Jacques’ very clear look of “Have utterly lost your mind!?”

At which point, Agathon will sit back down and ride quietly to the river.

During the ride on the barges, Agathon will lean back in the saddle as the crossbowmen tense for possible action in the river, he will hum another tune to himself and await his turn to disembark.

Once upon the trail in the van with Ebbers’ Gnome friends in the lead, Agathon will get serious and keep a weather eye about for foes and enemy scouts:

A Spot Roll upon the trail... (1d20+5=24)

Since the troops have never heard this song before, you're not from Knurl and your performance is not that great, their reaction after the first verse is "shut the f$@! up."

20/20 hit points and AC 16.

Thaddeus will listen attentively and try to place the song, but utterly fail: Perform check (1d20+3=4) His internal reaction is much the same as the other men, but he will say nothing, hoping to spare his friend's feelings.

Meeting Agathon's smile with a wry grin of his own, he will say "Doubtless they will like your singing better after they have seen you fight." Hopefully taking some of the sting out of the soldier's reactions while concealing his own feelings about the song. Bluff check on Agathon (1d20+5=17)

Upon learning that we will be on the front line of skirmishers, Thaddeus will cast mage armor on himself, bringing him to AC20 for the next 5 hours. He will ready his crossbow and fall in with the others, remaining alert for whatever awaits: Spot and listen checks (1d20=12, 1d20=15)

You make it across the river. It is just past 9am. A squad of mottle clad gnomes emerges from the bushes, embrace Ebbers and quickly hustle you all behind cover. The barge pulls away and the next one is coming across.

"I sense we are being scryed," one of the gnomes, a female wizard wearing a cloak of burlap strips, states. "No surprise there."

Ebbers winks at Belric.

"C'mon heroes, let's move ahead and find a safe path for the Army behind us. Jacques, you are the quiet one...move on ahead with me, will you please?" Ebbers adds....we'll be up a couple of hundred yards.

He hands Jacques a bone whistle. "If you get in trouble, blow on it like there's no tomorrow!"

"No, it's not magical, it's just LOUD!" he adds at Jacques quizzical looks.

The rest of you can move up with the gnome fighters. They're not as loud as you, but loud enough.

A couple of rangers peel off from your barge party to move ahead with you as well.

Prior to disembarkment, and after Agathon's song,

Belric will slap Agathon on the shoulder, and loudly state "Lad that be a foin song, but de sodgers here are more used ta this" and with that he breaks out in the local dirge of "

perform roll 1d20+3=22

"OF COURSE LADS, I LIKE BEING IN DA GROON!" Belric will proclaim, hoping to lighten the troops mood.

Once they get over the river, Belric will announce " Any o ye wish ta hae the blessing of ma lord, Moradin, come close and I'll give da benediction o battle" Belric will intone one of his church's battle prayers to those who respond to his summons.

"Now dinnae go a wasting such fine words and get yerselves hurt"

Lord, please don't let Thaddeus burst into spontaneous song as well, for then I'll be sure we are under some foul enchantment. "Otto's Irresistable Caterwalling" perhaps?" Jaques clears his throat and shuffles his feet a bit, to make check against irrational urges. Satisfied he's not under or resisting any enchantment, he eyes Ebbers whistle suspiciously. He sniffs the mouthpiece, examines it for any residue, and then lightly taps it with his tounge. Last thing I want to do is stick a poison in my mouth when I'm in the most trouble. He moves out with Ebbers, keeping silent and hidden. 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (10) + 10 = 201d20 + 9 ⇒ (2) + 9 = 11

20/20 hp and AC20.

Again, Thaddeus will listen attentively, and know the song almost immediately: Knowledge/local to identify Belric's song (1d20+10=26) knowledge/local cause it's a local song

He will consider joining in with Belric. I know the song well and it would surely cement Belric and myself as trustworthy locals. However, it seems like we're trying to cross the river with some stealth, and it would not do to call undue attention to ourselves. There will be other, less risky, times to gain the trust of these men.

Thaddeus will follow along with the rangers from the barge, following in their footsteps and mimicking their movements as much as possible: Hide and move silent (1d20+3=17, 1d20+3=19)

Party action: we will all advance as requested with maximum stealth.

The men sing along with the song that they know. Maybe it's the better performance too.

The crossing is uneventful.

Jacques, Ebbers and a couple of gnomish rogues scout ahead of the main body, about 500 yards behind. The noise of so many men moving through the wildernis is painful to Jacques' ears. Even with sound discipline, they can be heard for probably 3/4 of a mile.

Ebbers states "we have supplies pre-positioned for the crossing." It will take us a couple of days of marching to get to them.

Belric, Thaddeus and Agathon ride with Sir Gendar and his headquarters unit. Out in front of the main body, the columns of troops snake through the terrain for about a 1/4 mile behind. Skirmishers with dogs protect the flanks. The dogs are trained to sniff out invisible foes and can detect goblin scents as well. The warband has 12 of these dogs.

"The dogs are very valuable," Gendar states.

"I'd like for your group to camp with me and my staff for the duration of this battle, if you don't mind. I want to hear more details of your adventures in the last few weeks."

Please note any special preparations or actions during your overnight camping. Are any of you going to help with guard duty, roam around, go off to scout on your own, any preparations, etc?

Take another 50xp for RP

20/20 hp, AC20 until 2pm, then AC16

"Sir, I would be happy to encamp with you and your staff, and I believe my friends would as well. We don't want to be in the way, so if you could have one of your aides direct us where to pitch our tents, we'd be grateful."

"I will volunteer for either the first watch or the last watch, wherever you think I am better used. I also have an alarm spell memorized today that I can cast wherever you like. Some of the other spellcasters may have that spell memorized as well."

While it is still light out, he will identify whichever of Sir Gendar's staff seems to be in charge of watch rotation and sentry placement. "I think it would be a good idea to cast a fly spell on myself to get a look at things from the air. I'm also going to make myself invisible so I don't become an instant target. Is there anywhere in particular you'd like me to look?" After finding out where and what the officer wants him to look for, Thaddeus will cast invisibility and fly to have a look around (5 minute duration on both spells). He will then report any findings to the officer.

After scouting and seeing to his own gear, Thaddeus will roam the camp, trying to get the general layout and looking for familiar faces. He will stop and chat with anyone he knows, perhaps sharing a drink and making some new friends.

Over dinner and around the campfire, Thaddeus will be content to let the others do most of the talking. He will correct the record when necessary, truthfully answer any questions put to him, and generally play up the abilities of his friends.

Thaddeus is more interested in observing Sir Gendar, his officers, and the interactions and manner that Sir Gendar has with people. considering leadership as 6th level feat

Sir Gendar appears capable and well trusted. He seems to trust his NCOs to carry out his orders.

At the end of the day, the company is about 10 mile up river from Knurl, on the west side of the Harp River, of course.

An abandoned fishing village is the site chosen for the night's camp.

Jacques, Ebbers and the 2 other scouts reach the village first.

Its walls are burned down to stumps of wood and most buildings are sacked and ruined.

"This happened about five years ago. Many of the fishing villages along the river are like this. King ap'Hiller can't protect them all," Ebbers sighs.

King ap'Hiler is the king of the gnomes in the Flinty Hills

Ebbers brightens.

"Hey, the army won't get here for another 20-30 minutes, let's hit the place and see if there's anyone hiding out in there. I'm itching to put some feathers into evil flesh!"

He pats his quiver demonstrably.

Jacques--make a move silent and hide roll if you agree to go into the village with the gnomes.

This is a group post intended to cover Agathon, Jacques, and Belric.
Jacques - 38/38 hp; AC 22
Agathon - 47/47 hp; AC 21
Belric - 31/31 hp AC 22

It is near dusk. The village has been scouted and the troops are settling in among the ruins.

Thaddeus' aerial scout discovered another ruined settlement about 300 yards away, up a hill, along the river bank.

"The old monastery of St. Cuthbert," Sir Gendar offered.

Ebbers pulls Jacques along to go explore the monastery while the rest of the scouts fix camp and dinner.

Agathon, Belric and Thaddeus tag along, but 75 yards behind the two scouts, so as not to make noise.

Long shadows play through the trees. Jacques and Ebbers spot the orcs coming out of one of the ruined buildings almost simultaneously.

They march out carrying battleaxes over their shoulders, heavy crossbows slung across their backs. Muscled and very quiet for wearing metal studded armor, their cloaks are embroidered with a bleeding eye. They file out of the ruined building, 10 feet apart, looking around.

Jaques has learned the hard way about engaging against superior numbers. As scouts, their job is intelligence, not attrition. Jaques opts to remain still, unless Ebbers attacks. When they leave, we'll find out what they were up to. Even better, we will be able to track them, and possibly locate their main force. 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (18) + 10 = 28hide roll. If Ebbers attacks with missile fire, Jaques will do the same with his sling, if Ebbers attacks melee, Jaques will wade in behind him, in an attempt to save the gnome from himself, cursing fluently under his breath.

Jacques melts into the trees and Ebbers does the same, but gently pulls out an arrow and nocks it to his composite shortbow....the orcs number 7. They pull out their crossbows and crank up a massive heavy bolt, then move towards the building shown on the map. They are carefully checking all directions.

#3 is ogling down towards the main town. You know he's spotted the column readying for night camp down there. As still as you are they are making way too much noise.

Unfortunately, you are too far into the trees to give the party behind you the signal to stop.

Orc #3 spots the Agathon, Belric and Thaddeus, along with the six troopers that accompanied them. He grunts softly in orcish.

Initiative.....

20/20hp, AC16

Assuming the rest of us haven't detected the orcs.

Thaddeus will lean idly against a tree, attempting to conceal himself from whatever lies ahead, watching and listening for some signal from the scouts. Either that it is either safe to advance, or that there is combat ahead. It is difficult to hear anything due to the camp sounds behind us. Spot and listen (1d20=13, 1d20=7)

He will glance at his crossbow (for the tenth time) to make sure it is loaded and ready.

Initiative (1d20+7=11)

Whether alerted to the presence of the orcs by the whistle blowing or a fusillade of crossbow bolts, Thaddeus will move to better cover and cast mirror image as a 6th level caster (to get the extra figment). DC10 spellcraft check (1d20+14=26)

Six copies of Thaddeus will spring into existence. Figments for mirror image (1d4+2=6) The images' AC is 13.

Blast, never reconnoiter, only reconnoiter in force. Jaques thinks, as he notes the orc scouts snort, noticing the party up the trail. Interesting. The guys don't see the orc scouts, but orc scouts don't know we are here. Ambush the ambusher. The best moment to strike is when they are about to spring their trap, it will disrupt and confuse them. If we sneak up closer, I can sling the first one to raise his crossbow and draw a bead. That should be a nasty surprise. Jaques flashes a wicked grin at Ebbers, and motions him to join in the counter stalk. initiative, hide, move silent, sling attack 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (11) + 9 = 201d20 + 10 ⇒ (1) + 10 = 111d20 + 9 ⇒ (8) + 9 = 171d20 + 10 ⇒ (10) + 10 = 201d4 + 4 ⇒ (3) + 4 = 7

Jaques has to waive his arms, gesticulating wildly, to get Ebbers attention, and convey his intentions, meanwhile totally disregarding the orcs ahead.I think IC has found me here, of course he'd blow the "hide" roll. Hopefully the orcs will not recognize the impromptu game of charades, and will instead mistake him for a crazy man wandering aimlessly, perhaps begging for alms.

Belric will also check his light cross bow, look about Initiative, Listen, Spot (1d20+2=21, 1d20+5=6, 1d20+4=21)

ach cannae hear nothing boot the troops setting up camp, hmm what is that ahead?

not sure if a spot of 21 allowed the orcs to be seen, but if so then the following happens if the spot is successful

"Orcs, da bloody blighters!" Belric warns the others, moves up 20 feet, takes aim and fires1d20+5=12, 1d8=8

another quarrel lost ta da woods

47/47 HP; AC 21

Leaving the camp along with Thaddeus, Belric, and the troopers, Agathon will note everyone’s attention to their crossbows and will pull his new magical long composite bow. Stringing it as he walks, he will appreciate the fine craftsmanship that went into the making of this fine weapon.

”Sure hope that this bow shoots straighter than my old one!” He will think to himself.

A few moments later as the group just begins to leave the camp behind, Agathon peers ahead into the darkness straining to hear and see foes ahead…

A Listen Check: (1d20=4)
A Spot Roll: (1d20+5=12)

Not seeing the Orc ahead initially (note bad rolls above), Agathon will react to Belric’s action and will move up with the dwarf so as to be able to act and fire upon the same target with coordinated fire… Thus, he will lose his initiative of 26 and go on Belric’s initiative of 21:

Agathon’s initiative roll:
An Initiative Roll: (1d20+8=26)

As Belric rushes forward alerting the others to the presence of the Orc upon the trail ahead, Agathon will double time next to his short friend (moving only 20 feet to end up next to him) and sight his bow shot along Belric’s shot.

Finally seeing the foe before him, Agathon will draw and release noting the extra strength needed to draw this bow and marveling at the smooth action and the most satisfying ‘Thwack!’ of the string release.

A bow shot at the lead Orc: (1d20+10=16, 1d8+4=12)

Neither seeing nor hearing whether or not he or Belric hit the target, he will say quietly to Belric, “We should perhaps find cover off the trail…”

Please post your HP, AC and any temporary modifiers to any stats, abilities, attack rolls due to spells, etc
Agathon runs up (still off map to be emailed) and fires his bow at the first orc he sees, about 180 feet away. He misses.

Belric runs up as well, almost simultaneous with Agathon, fires his crossbow and misses. Both have cover from trees.

Jacques moves up slightly, sees orc #3 raising his crossbow and hits him with a well slung bullet, doing 7 points of damage.

Orc 1 fires his crossbow at Agathon and misses. He then runs north full speed.

Orc 2 fires his crossbow at Jaques, hitting for 6 points of damage. He then runs north, full speed, disappearing from view.

Orc 3 fires his crossbow at Jacques, missing. He runs north out of sight behind the buildings.

Orcs 4 5 6 and 7 run north, out of sight.

Ebbers has no targets and readies his shot for anything that pops up.

Thaddeus casts mirror image

The troopers with Thaddeus, Agathon and Belric sound an alarm horn and ready their crossbows and move up tactically.

This creature rises up, flying up from behind the buildings, loosing a volley of spikes from its tail. Agathon is hit for 4 points of damage; a trooper is wounded and one of Thaddeus' images disappears.

Order of initiative: Agathon, Belric, Jaques, Orcs, Ebbers, Thaddeus, Troopers, Manticore

Belric: 31 hp AC 22, Melee +8/+9 v orcs, Range +6 this includes the bless that lasts 40 rounds, +1 on saves v. fear as well.

“That be one verra ugly creature! Lads line oop and fire as one now” Belric will bellow out as he loads his crossbow. “Dinnae stray and ma Lord Moradin shall bless oos ta aim at dat creature o evil”

Belric intones a prayer to bless the group, and all within 50 feet will receive the bonus.

43 out of 47 HP; AC 21; +1 to attacks (Bless spell: 40 rounds left)

As the tail spike sticks into his right side, Agathon will grunt with the sting of it and will wonder if this insane beast is poisonous…

As he raises his bow and fires, he will ask, “What by the light of day IS that! Shoot it!!!”

A bow shot at the Manticore: (1d20+11=28, 1d8+4=6)

DM Note: I included the +1 to hit from the Bless Spell. Agathon is currently -2 to hit at this range. I did not include the Multi-Attacker bonus as I have no idea what that bonus will be (don’t know if all or any of the troops and Thaddeus will fire similarly). So please apply those bonuses for us. Thank you.

Watching his arrow fly into the darkness toward the beast, Agathon will feel certain that he hit it and will watch with some satisfaction as all the other’s arrows fly as well.

Agathon will stand in place after firing not wanting to leave Belric’s side.

20/20hp, AC16, 5 mirror images left at AC13

"Corporal, I suggest we all advance up to the dwarf and mass our fire against the manticore." Diplomacy on soldiers (1d20+7=18)

Thaddeus will take a move action to move up to Belric, and volley fire with the troopers against the manticore. Light crossbow shot at -2 for range (1d20+4=23) includes range penalties but not bless bonuses or massed fire bonuses. Thaddeus will now go on the troopers' initiative.

AC 22 HP 38

Jaques looks up from his ongoing pantomime routine with Ebbers, and sees the Orc scout turn to fire. The clack of the heavy crossbow registers in his ears, followed by the whistle of the bolt through the air. The moving sound of the bolt traveling focuses his mind and eyes on the trajectory, his reflexes respond as trained. His body makes a tiny movement to the right, as he swats the incoming bolt out of the air with his free hand. Verbal thought disappears from his mind, and he shifts to fight mode. Now it's all target priorities, angles, and distance. If his friends can see him through the darkness, they all recognize his "game face", it's on.

The huge beast rises up from behind the buildings to his left, and flings it's tail spikes. Though it would be possible to run down the fleeing orcs, they would outnumber him, and fighting the monster, he could not rely on his group for backup. The orcs will just have to go. Priority, monster. He moves towards the creature until he is within practice range no range penalty or bonus distance to fire another sling bullet. 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (11) + 10 = 211d4 + 4 ⇒ (1) + 4 = 5

The troopers listen and coordinate their fire with the party. Almost every shot hits and the Manticore screams in pain. On its turn, it flies low down the hillside in the opposite direction, using the slope of the land and terrain as cover.

You all can get shots at it still, but it will be over 350 feet away next turn and it will have +4 to cover from terrain. The orcs are beating feet away as rapidly as possible. Jacques and Ebbers catch glimpses of them fleeing as well.

"Very odd," Ebbers says.

20/20hp, AC16, 5 mirror images left at AC13

"Come on! If we fire together again we might bring the manticore down!" Diplomacy on soldiers (1d20+7=23)

Thaddeus will reload and fire with the others. Plenty of lead...extra elevation...it'll be behind those trees soon... Light xbow shot at insane range (1d20-5=10, 1d8+1=7) -8 for range, -4 for cover, +7 for bless and regular modifiers. Does not include multiple attacker bonus.

Belric has 31/31 AC 22 +1 for bless for 39 more rounds

"Aye all at once again" Belric will join in with Thaddeus and take his aim and fire with the group not including the multiple attacker bonus (1d20+6-12=11)

"Did tha beastie drop?" Belric askes aloud " Cannae see past these infernal trees"

43 out of 47 HP; AC 21; +1 to attacks (Bless spell: 39 rounds left)

Agathon will squint trying to keep his eye pinned to the fleeing creature. Feeling oddly confident and absolutely sure of his aim (effect of the Bless Spell…)

A knowledge Nature roll to determine his knowledge of Manticores: (1d20+2=6)

As he releases another arrow at the beast, he will say to Thaddeus, “What did you call that creature? It looked as if it used its tail to throw this dart at me!”

Another bow shot at the Manticore (+10, +1 Bless, -6 range): (1d20+5=9, 1d8+4=5)

This calculation includes everything but the multiple attacker bonus (which should be right around +18 or +20 or so…) So, that 9 should still be a hit… hopefully…

Unsure of what effect if any the archery had upon the flying beast due to darkness and distance, Agathon finds himself intensely interested in learning about this and other such things… Amazed as always at his friend’s vast store of knowledge, he makes a mental note to speak with Thaddeus (and the men of the troop) of such fantastic creatures in the local area…

(He is still working the ranger angle and trying to increase his knowledge appropriately)

AC 22; HP 38/38

Jaques moves again, to better position himself to fire at the beast as it flees, but not so far as prevent him from being able to launch another bullet. half move to reduce range penalty as much as possible. No bonuses included like multiple attacker or range penalty, as I don't know if those will apply with Jaques attack. 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (19) + 10 = 291d4 + 4 ⇒ (3) + 4 = 7 Jaques will return to Ebbers position after the shot. Can't run down something that flies.

The Manticore goes down!! It falls with a massive thud and crashing of trees. Ebbers moves up and says "it's down." "The orcs are gone too, they ran off north."

A quick check of the ruins finds the remnants of a camp. In one of the buildings, a former church, there is a staircase leading down. Way down.

Ebbers states.

"This church has a dungeon beneath it, but it was walled off last year last time I was through here."

Everyone examines the area around it and finds signs and spoor that the orcs might have been in and out of this dungeon.

400xp each

Party action post
Thaddeus: 20/20hp, AC16, 5 mirror images left at AC13 (5-6 minutes left), +1 for bless for 39 more rounds
Belric: 31/31 AC 22 +1 for bless for 39 more rounds
Agathon: 43 out of 47 HP; AC 21; +1 to attacks (Bless spell: 39 rounds left)
Jacques: AC 22; HP 38/38

Agathon peers down the stairs, then looks back at his comrades quizzically. First Jacques, then Belric, and finally Thaddeus nod at him.

Thaddeus turns to speak to the corporal. "Can you guys stay up here on security while we investigate the dungeons below? The manticore is dead and the orcs most likely won't come back, but we'd feel better with eyes up here. If anything bad happens, blow the horn down the stairs so we can hear it, okay?" Diplomacy on soldiers (1d20+7=22)

When he turns back, he sees that Belric has already slung his crossbow, taken up his family's axe, and is stomping down the stairs. Belric's tuneless humming and muttering to himself is a bit unsettling.

Thaddeus shrugs and slings his crossbow. "Better go back him up, Agathon. I'll hold the light so you can have both hands for your sword. Jacques, looks like you're on rear guard until we get down there." Marching order Belric, Agathon, Thaddeus, Jacques. The humans will hang back enough to not mess with Belric's darkvision.

On the way down the stairs, Thaddeus will search his brain for any information on what might be down here: Knowledge/local about monastery dungeons (1d20+10=26)

Ebbers is welcome to come with us, or he can stay topside with the security detail.

"colour post"

Jaques watches the others file into the narrow passage. Belrics tune sounds somewhat familiar, a piece about heading back to familiar task, but he can't quite place it. Thaddeus is right, I wouldn't want to waste a darkvision potion on this, when there is little need for stealth or subtlety. Fortunately we have our dwarvish mine detector, to take this dark shaft. Jaques looks at Ebbers, raises an eyebrow, inclining his head toward the stairwell, his mannerism enough to ask the unspoken question, "You coming"?

Yes, the soldiers agree to watch the top. A couple of them poke at the dead manticore, while their sergeant yells at them to form a perimeter. Sounds of reinforcements come up from downhill, too.

Thaddeus does know that there are some dungeons in the hills and along the villages and that some may connect to deeper tunnels, but he has no specific knowledge of 'this' dungeon.

Ebbers smiles at Jaques and pulls out his shortsword and dagger, twirling them both with flair and follows into the dark, moving very quietly.

Belric moves down into a U intersection area (5' squares on map, see email map) and spots an orc in square N-5. The orc fires a crossbow bolt at Belric, missing his shot, as Belric used cover from the wall and the orc seemed a bit jumpy.

Initiative.

Initiative (1d20+2=16) Belric HP 31/31 AC 22, Bless round 38/40

"We hae company lads," Belric informs the others as he scans the area before the Orc for any trip wires or pits Goblin scum, dinnae hold ground like this one is doing unless he be thinking ta hae the advantage Search roll (1d20+3=12)

Belric will step towards his enemy if he sees no traps and attack 1d20+9=11, 1d10+4=12

if a trap is detected "Lads it appears that this passage be trapped!" Belric will tell the others while trying to keep his shield between the himself and the orc.

Belric going total defensive +4 dodge bonus to his AC standard action PH 142

Hearing the report of the crossbow and the bolt slam into the wall just ahead in the passage, Agathon will move into action… Pulling a Sun Rod and striking it on the wall on the move FA for pulling something on the move he will ‘break left’ as Belric moves to the right…

As the Orc winces in the light of the Sun Rod, Agathon will leave him for Belric’s considerable wrath to look and move left to see if there are any foes before him in this direction…

If there is an orc or other enemy right there in Squares N-8, N-9, or peering around the corner from Square M-9:

As he slides past Belric and rounds the corner , Agathon sees a shape before him. He will drop the Sun Rod as he moves right up to the foe and brings the massive blade around to strike…

A Hit with the Great Sword: (1d20+12=18, 2d6+7=10)

(MA/SA, He’s done)

If there are no enemies visible in Squares N-8, N-9, or peering around the corner from Square M-9:

Skidding to a halt at the corner (This would be Square N-8), he will allow his momentum to carry both the Sun Rod and his head around the corner to take a peek around the corner and down the hall on the left and snap his head back using the corner for cover…

This is TWO MA! One MA to get to the corner. And, one MA to do a “quick peek” (snapping his head and Sun Rod to look and then fully withdraw back behind the corner)…

(MA/MA, He’s done)

AC 22; HP 38; note Monk movement +10 ft.
Initiative
1d20 + 8 ⇒ (14) + 8 = 22

He's standing watch and didn't expect anyone to come down here! Gotta silence him! Jaques rushes the orc, trusting his reflexes to get him past the others and away from any trap. He attempts a stunning strike on the Orc to silence and drop him. 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (2) + 8 = 101d8 + 2 ⇒ (3) + 2 = 5 The orc is stunned, at how wildly this unarmed human flails at him with no weapon.

Thaddeus: 20/20hp, AC16, 5 mirror images left at AC13 (5 minutes left), +1 for bless for 35 more rounds
Agathon: 43 out of 47 HP; AC 21; +1 to attacks (Bless spell: 35 rounds left)

Initiative for Thaddeus: Initiative (1d20+7=19)

Initiative for Agathon: Initiative for Agathon (1d20+8=19)

Thaddeus will flatten himself against the wall as best he can, in an effort to get Jacques and Ebbers get by without too much fuss. With any remaining movement, he will advance to N-7 if possible.

Unable to do much else, he will attempt to listen for activity deeper in the dungeons, but it is impossible to hear anything over Belric's shouted curses: Listen (1d20=2)

Jacques moves past Belric. The move action does not allow him to use flurry of blows, which is a full round action, so he only gets one attack, using his stunning strike, which he only gets to use once per day per 4 levels. He misses, even with the -2 penalty for the flurry of blows attack penalty removed.

Thaddeus holds his action as square N-7 is occupied by Belric.

Agathon sees no enemies down the other hallway.

Belric's attack misses.

Orc #1 drops his crossbow, bellows an alarm and attacks Belric with his battleaxe, missing.

Order of initiative: Jacques, Thaddeus & Agathon, Belric, Orc

AC 22; HP 38

Damnit, he needs to go down now! Having missed his chance to put the orc down quietly, Jaques launches a flurry of blows, hoping to at least put him down quickly. 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (13) + 6 = 191d8 + 2 ⇒ (2) + 2 = 41d20 + 6 ⇒ (9) + 6 = 151d8 + 2 ⇒ (2) + 2 = 4

HP 31/32 AC 22 Bless 37/40

Blocking the Orc's ax on his shield, if the orc is not dropped by Jaques Belric swings back1d20+9=11, 1d10+4=13

if Jaques drops the orc
Belric looks down the hallway, and moves forward by 30 feet

Agathon: HP:43/47, AC: 21 Bless Spell 37 rounds left

Motioning for Thaddeus to follow him, Agathon will move down the left hallway.

Agathon will move to the end of the hallway looking for enemies ahead in the dim light projected by the sun rod (sun rod projects bright light to 30’ and dim light to 60’).

A Spot Roll: (1d20+5=20)

As sweat beads begin to form on his brow, Agathon tries to ignore the renewed sting of the Manticore wound in his side… “Why does it still sting so? I wonder if there is not some slow poison even now coursing my veins…”

Hushing his thoughts as he nears the end of the hall, he will tense up for the fight he feels is very near now…

Agathon moves to the opening and looks into the space beyond… (25’ of movement: MA)

If there is an enemy right there to hit, he will strike:

A Hit with the Great Sword (Bless effects factored in): (1d20+12=30, 2d6+7=18)

If there is a room beyond with no enemies in evidence, he will then move further into the room and investigate what is there being sure to check to his right to see if the other passage meets up with this room.

If there are enemies in evidence waiting in ambush, he will to use his second move action to move forward to engage whoever looks like a leader type (or just to whoever happens to be closest if there is no obvious leader…)

If this is the case, he will bellow, “I found them!! Get in here!”

Thaddeus: 20/20hp, AC16, 5 mirror images left at AC13 (5 minutes left), +1 for bless for 34 more rounds

Thaddeus catches Agathon's signal, and the warrior's apparent intent matches what the wizard was thinking about anyway.

Got to get around this scout...maybe we can get Agathon behind him and kill him quickly, or cut off his retreat, or intercept reinforcement before it arrives.

Thaddeus will follow Agathon, staying 10' behind him so the larger man has plenty of space to jump back if necessary. He will concentrate on reaching out with his senses to detect the enemy. Fortunately, Belric has run out of breath and has ceased his cursing, giving Thaddeus a chance to hear something:

spot and listen (1d20=9, 1d20=20)