DM Blayde MacRonan's Giantslayer... The Strange Adventures of Team Ruby (Private Campaign) (Inactive)

Game Master Blayde MacRonan

Mesa flinches at the explosion, distracted for a moment from the gods awful attempt at music.

"Okay focus .. something big on the other side the gate, bard music powering it, explosions, and strangers in the night... plus a drunk guard....... " Mesa blinks before darting over to the guard and yelling at him. " Why in all the ducks are you out here alone!?!"

I am confused by the map. It appears that the orcs are on the same side of the gate as we are, but outside the barricade we are behind? Which figure is the drunken guard?

Liesel-Marie tries to use the brief lull to orient herself. "Rohan, can you use this rock like you used the little ones? Can anyone use those long weapons? We might be able to attack through the barricade and make them pay for their approach." She realizes she is still carrying the bundle of gear and shoves it off on a man standing agape at the group's sudden appearance. "Here, weapons and gear. Hand it out to anyone that can use it, do it NOW!" Nearly overburdened by the weight of the bundle, he staggers toward other defenders awaiting the inevitable, grim determination on their faces to make the orcs pay dearly for every inch of ground.

I'm not sure what I can do. Is there a vantage point that would allow use of my new bow? Otherwise, I'm waiting for tall, stupid, and ugliest to make his appearance so I can split him asunder. I think.

I am confused by the map. It appears that the orcs are on the same side of the gate as we are, but outside the barricade we are behind? Which figure is the drunken guard?

Well... you weren't supposed to look at that map yet, as I was prepping for a reveal of when the gate comes down (which hasn't happened yet). In fact, based on what Nyym and the rest of you do, that map could end up being a placeholder to be replaced by something else entirely.

But for now, the figure with the greatsword resting on his shoulder is Patrol Sergeant Frum.

And as a suggestion... you might want to help get the Patrol Sergeant to be better able to assist your upcoming defense, as his rank would imply that he's better skilled than your average militia person. You have everything you need to do exactly that.

oops, sorry. I can never figure out the current map to look at.

Though the Hopespring beacon is still technically lit, the eerie green flame it now emits has lowered the illumination level of the area to normal light. While colors and fine details may not be as vivid in bright light, characters can still see easily without special forms of vision. But more importantly, normal light does not impact characters with light blindness or light sensitivity, such as orcs.

As Nyym slunk his way over to suspicious gathering, he was able to make out a few snatches of conversation in Orcspeech:

...do with 'im?
...kick 'im in the head til he's ded?

He was beginning to see that a group of six orcs were gathered in a huddle around someone. They then backed away, as though someone had suddenly stood up in their midst.

That is the town's shaman. The silver hair.

This elicited a series of shocked gasps from the orcs. Silvermane was known to the tribe for his powerful magic and his equally fearsome ability to call forth powerful elemental creatures to aid him in battle. Many of the Twisted Heart had lost their lives to the druid, both in this fight and others in the past.

The group parted to reveal the last speaker, a half-orc with long blond locks and yellow snake-like eyes. He wore a loose-fitting two-toned grey and black kimono shirt with billowing, overlong sleeves, tied by a thick purple belt, and a pair of black pants.

When I sabotaged the Hopespring beacon, it was only meant to return the advantage of a night battle to the orcs. But I never in my wildest dreams thought it would yield this most unexpected of fruit. He smiled, revealing fang-like teeth. General Kelseph will be very pleased.

The orcs erupted with roars of delight at the prospect of appeasing the warleader.

Nyym can make out the prone figure of Silvermane lying at the feet of the gathered orcs, his body bristling with arrows.

Of course, she'll be more pleased if I can learn some things from him first.

Back at the barricade...

The drunken patrol sergeant stared at the bundle that Liesel-Marie had pressed into his hand for a long moment before dropping it to the ground. 'ey now, he began. You should be at the Longhouse. What are ya playing at?

Liesel-Marie, Mesa, and Rohan can make a DC 20 Perception check with regard to Patrol Sergeant Frum.

Okay, so the post wasn't as big as I thought it would be... but still, it's up now so have at it.

Perception: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (5) + 2 = 7

The patrol sergeant was not who I had in mind for the bundle of gear, I was expecting there to be someone else standing there, debating the wisdom of remaining vs running to shelter. But - it is what it is.

"Sergeant, we're here because you can't have all the fun. How do you propose we prepare for the horde? There are many weapons in yon barrel that could be set to receive a charge if we had the hands to hold them."

" Barricades, spikes,. barrels of pitch maybe...hmm doesn't seem it. Need more time likely, maybe find a keg of hootch to dump over the wall and light up Do damage before they even get inside. What i wouldn't give for some of my thundersticks right now.... and a couple gallons of booze....." Mesa muttered to herself looking over everything before turning back to the drunkard." Where the heck is everyone else?"

"Really really really sorry for my long time delay. Between being sick, school work, and trying to make a living with bills and what not it has been very hectic lately."

Rohan stood there in complete isolation for a few moments as he was trying to take in all that was happening. The thoughts of what was going on was still running through his head from what had recently transpired and it just came rushing up in a flood of memory that was shattered by the recent explosion near by. Rohan just looked in that direction and complete blank ridden face and appeared to give off a appearance of being shocked, but that wasn't what it was. Rohan mind was trying to process all the new information the tunneling of the wormhole the explosion near by the advancing orcs and the question from liesel. The stuff came at him more like a train trying to stop without any emergency breaks, it just didn't stop moving.

Clearing his throat he replied to Liesel "No, no I can't, I can't move the rock like I would like to though it would be a great point for a perch to avoid combat and shoot from, though it also is a great spot to be targeted as it provides no cover."

Rohan looked around no starting to move and function like the rest of the group within and looked to the advancing orcs.

Perception: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (14) + 6 = 20

Sir we are not suppose to be at the longhouse. I think it might be best if you sit down and let us take the lead on this, you seem to have been poisoned. You may not be standing on you feet to long unless you take the time to rest.

Rohan slowly approached him even though he was not completely aware of what was going on right now and still had to get a better advantage but that was important right now. He turned and look to the men around the place and quickly called out to them.

Men Grab some of these weapons form a line and get ready for any orc charging, we need you to hold the front line and fight along side us, we are after all the members of Team Ruby from the festival, and we have you back.

Rohan reaches over to the first man and grabbes a javelin from Liesel as politely as possible and hands it to the man, and points to the ground just a few feet from him.

"Stand there and start the line up, be ready men we can protect the lives of the village, your wives, your children, your loved ones, it rest in our hands. Now lets do this."

Rohan deep voice carrying over the field like a commander and chief though he was only trying to inspire the men to fight and be ready for combat as he was afraid that they had lost there motivation and may fear for there lives. Boosting the moral at all cost, even if his words were empty it was only a matter of time before Mesa would charm in if it seemed to not work.

Liesel-Marie shakes her head and slaps the man-giant's hand. "Not these flimsy spears - use the pole arms!" She points at the barrel of long weapons.

I tried to imply there were additional militia near to receive my bundle of gear, but DM took it to mean I handed to to Frumm, so I'm not sure there is anyone to form that defensive line, much as I agree with the sentiment.

There isn't anyone else but Team Ruby and Patrol Sergeant Frum. He was intending to go out by taking as many orcs as possible with him (remember, he still feels major remorse over the death of Rodrick Grath), but in his current state, it's doubtful it would have been very many. Hint, hint....

Nyym takes a look around to get a feel for his surroundings. He pays particular attention to areas that will aid him in a bit and run style situation if it came to that. He also looks at the group before him to see what weapons the will likely bring to beat against him and see if he recognize the leader of this particular group.

Hang in there Silvermane.

perception: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (20) + 2 = 22

There isn't anyone else but Team Ruby and Patrol Sergeant Frum. He was intending to go out by taking as many orcs as possible with him (remember, he still feels major remorse over the death of Rodrick Grath), but in his current state, it's doubtful it would have been very many. Hint, hint....

Sorry, I'm probably a bit thick-headed here, but the only thing I see hinted at here is that Patrol Sergeant Frum is not going to be of much value to us as a combatant. I fear I'm not seeing the utility of the many items you described in our vicinity. I was hoping they were things my team members could take advantage of, but no one seems to be keying off on any of them.

Is there perhaps a roll we could make to get a more explicit hint from the DM if we roll well?

Patrol Sergeant Frum was in the midst of retrieving his flask, dropped when the Erutaki warrior had pushed off onto him the bundle that she'd been carrying. However, the sight of Rohan barking out orders to non-existent militiamen gave the man pause, causing him to reconsider that course of action for a moment.

Patrol Sergeant's Fortitude save: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (11) + 4 = 15; -2 due to being sickened

Beads of sweat began to form on Frum's brow as he stared longingly at the metal container. He wanted to pick it up, to take another hit of the hooch. But as he looked to the others that had come to his aid, the patrol sergeant knew that he couldn't. It was one thing when it was just him prepared to give his life. But now that they were here...

The patrol sergeant stood up, his legs somewhat shaky, though a new sensation had come over him. Call it clarity, lucidity, or whatever. But in that moment, Omast Frum knew what it was he had to do.

And he began by immediately retching the contents of his stomach.

@Liesel-Marie: Perhaps there is...

... like a DC 20 Wisdom check. Only Liesel-Marie, Mesa, and Rohan are allowed to make it, though. Nyym is otherwise occupied, as is Kyt. As Mesa's theme song "Roundabout" came up in a non-combat situation, I will allow the use of the +2 bonus to die rolls to be used by you three for this check.

Speaking of Kyt...

Kytynna scanned the area west of Team Ruby's location, her expression one of concern. Where's Nyym? The elf let out a loud sigh. Probably eyes deep in trouble, knowing him.

She looked to Liesel-Marie and the rest of her team. Though Kyt knew that preparing to defend the area was of greater importance, she also couldn't ignore the possibility that the half-drow needed help.

They'll understand, Kyt thought to herself even as the elf headed off in the last direction she had seen him go in.

@Nyym: The fallen tower appears to have been the very one that the group had encountered a dangling Patrol Sergeant Frum. It looks as though it has been taken down by an orc siege weapon, perhaps a catapult judging by the boulder that lay beyond the rubble. Nothing here will give him an advantage with regard to performing a hit-and-run style of attack. As to the weapons being carried by the orcs, three are armed with bows and falchions, while the others are packing greataxes and bolas. The half-orc looks to be wearing a falchion strapped across his back as well as a light crossbow with distinct U-shaped bend in the stock. But even more curious are the numerous flasks that dangle from his belt.

Wisdom DC 20: 1d20 + 1 + 2 ⇒ (9) + 1 + 2 = 12

Liesel-Marie continues to scan the area looking for something to use to their advantage. Sheer force of arms was not going to be sufficient, no matter how hot her blood boiled at the thought of orcs winning the night.

Nyym sighs as he realizes this will be no easy task. But with the thought of this half orc torchering Silverman. Nyym knew he had no other choice but to fight and hope that others came to his aid. With this thought firmly imbedded in his mind, he resigned himself to a fight that could very well go badly for him. His 1st attack aimed right at the blind half orc.

If I survive this, LM and Kyt are gonna kill me.

With this last though Nym lets fly with his then kunai

attack: 1d20 + 4 + 3 + 1 + 1 ⇒ (19) + 4 + 3 + 1 + 1 = 28

damage: 2d4 + 1d6 ⇒ (3, 4) + (2) = 9

Let the games begin.

As soon as he let fly Nyym burns a point of ki on vanish trick and move at an angle to his right away from his current position and advances on the group.

Determined to rescue the captured druid from his orc captors, Nyym let fly with a kinetic kunai. He struck the half-orc full in the chest, causing him to seize momentarily as the weapon's crackling energy flowed throughout his body. However, that bout didn't last long as the half-orc immediately reached for one of the flasks on his belt, his mouth twisted to form an evil grin.

Much to the half-drow's dismay as he faded from view, the half-orc seemed mostly unaffected by his attack. The half-drow is near. Find him. Kill him.

The six orcs grunted, gleeful expressions evident on their faces as they readied their weapons in preparation for the hunt.

Surprise round for Nyym is over. Round 1 begins now.

Those Chosen By The Planet (Horror Remix) - Green Noize

Nyym: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (16) + 6 = 22
Gorewillow: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (17) + 4 = 21
Kyt: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (16) + 2 = 18
Orc Archers: 1d20 + 0 ⇒ (15) + 0 = 15
Orc Hurlers: 1d20 + 0 ⇒ (13) + 0 = 13

How far did Nyym go from the rest of us? Will we hear the combat?

Nyym is approximately 80 feet west of your location. The DC for the required Perception check is 18 (hearing a battle normally is -10, but you're distracted [+5] and the conditions are terrible [+5] due to the other noises around you, plus the distance imposes an additional modifier [+8]).

I still need to post the location for Nyym's skirmish as a map to make following it easier. I expect to have it up by Friday, which gives Liesel-Marie, Mesa, and Rohan the opportunity to make their respective Perception checks to notice (as well as any Wisdom checks that need to be made with regard to helping the patrol sergeant). Even if none of you successfully make it, Nyym won't be alone in dealing with the orcs, as Kyt is on her way.

I also forgot to mention a couple of other details earlier on: first, southwest of your location are two buildings (one is near the larger group, while the other is closer to Nyym). Second, due to the elimination of the tower as a defensive structure, there is a gap between the wall and the cliff which would allow small groups of orcs that are fighting in the lower portion of Trunau to bypass the gate altogether and enter the Inner Quarter.

stealth: 1d20 + 10 + 20 ⇒ (9) + 10 + 20 = 39

Nyym silently watcha to see what the orcs will do. If they spread out Nyym can pick them off..

Above in the links section is an approximation of the site where Nyym is, listed as Inner Quarter Battlemap 2: Fallen Tower. As far as directionality is concerned, I'm using the direction rose on the Inner Quarter Battlemap 1: Barricade Battle as the basis. If there are any other questions, please feel free to post them. I will do my best to answer them.

"I am not sure who people are in the maps because the tokens have changed...?

Rohan barked off orders and once he turned around to touch the man to give the rest of his speech it escaped him to realize that there was no one there. He looked around once more, alone and in the midst of combat.

"Thanks portal women"

perception: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (10) + 6 = 16

Rohan scanned the area but didn't wait to long as he decided to make an attack against the nearest group of orcs.

Init: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (12) + 3 = 15 "If I can attack before I go let me know"

Rohan, did you want to try the Wisdom check to see if you recognize some available tactics from the immediate environment?

I am amazed that there is no one defending the gate. Even the Patrol Sergeant shouldn't be able to order everyone away unless they are defending a different choke point.

Perception: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (11) + 2 = 13 Nope. Sorry, Nyym. Feel free to bring you playmates to us...

wisdom check: 1d20 + 0 ⇒ (20) + 0 = 20

Wisdom: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (3) + 3 = 6

"Crap wish a had a spell that would work to remove poison or something."

Perception: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (11) + 7 = 18

Mesa blinked ignoring the crappy music for a moment looking around curiously as something else came to mind that was missing.

"Hey where's the super tan elf?" Mesa questioned noticing the missing party member.

After a moment she noted the sounds of combat and frowned.

" Never mind. I found him." Mesa grumbled."The gate looks like it will hold a moment or two more. Alright. Liesel-Marie, can you help me get the drunk idiot out from in front of the gate. I'd ask Rocky over there but he seems to be imagining he's got an army to command and i'm a little worried about that, unless he's talking to the rocks. I knew a guy who talked to rocks before so that's not that weird. Big furry guy, seemed scary but was rather nice. Oddly he was friends with a talking squirrel. Which was much stranger than him talking to the rocks. Any way little help please, i'm not built for moving large tin cans full of meat like the lush here.

Liesel-Marie looks around, "You see Nyym? Never mind. Go to him. I've got this."

"Sergeant Frum, your men and your city need you. Suicide by orcish horde isn't going to do anyone any good. Roderick would expect you to save the city, not die here alone." She pauses while he completes the unpleasant task of emptying his gut, then hauls him to his feet. "Better? No? It will have to do. We need your leadership, Sergeant - how do we repel the horde?"

Yay Rohan! Great roll!

"I am not sure who people are in the maps because the tokens have changed...?

You're obviously seeing things.... check again.

But in all seriousness, until the gate crashes open, very little on the first battlemap other than the direction rose is relevant to you at the moment. Especially possible orc placements on the field.

The half-orc popped open the flask and drank its contents before turning toward the cliff and hightailing it out, leaving the orcs and Silvermane behind.

Kytynna ventured further along where she saw the half-drow went.

Perception: 1d20 + 2 + 2 ⇒ (13) + 2 + 2 = 17

She came to a stop once she noticed the motley group of orcs making their way from the fallen tower, spreading out as though they were conducting a search for someone. The elf sighed to herself. No doubt looking for Nyym.

Hoping to draw their focus away from her companion, Kyt edged just a little closer to the orcs. ( 5-foot step) Once she was sure of the distance, the monk focused her gaze on the enemy even as she began to channel her ki. The elf's arms began to move, her hands drawing what vapor there was in the air so that it hovered before her, condensed into a tight globule of liquid. Kyt then thrust her arms toward the orcs, sending the blast of highly concentrated fluid their way. Full Attaack: Surge Fist flurry

Kyt's Surge Fist flurry: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (8) + 5 = 131d20 + 5 ⇒ (7) + 5 = 12
Kyt's Surge Fist Damage: 1d6 + 1 ⇒ (4) + 1 = 51d6 + 1 ⇒ (4) + 1 = 5

The blast slammed into one of the falchion-wielding orcs, causing it stagger from the impact even as the water exploded apart spectacularly. But that water had been touched by her ki, allowing for it to respond in ways even she didn't fully understand as the elf kept her arms moving gracefully, swaying to and fro. The action caused the droplets to quickly regather and merge into a stream that pounded the raider once again. Unable to withstand the assault, the orc crashed heavily to the ground. One down, 5 to go...

Seeing their comrade go down, the remaining orcs wasted little time in responding to this strange elf's attack. One of them sprinted, it's falchion leading the way, while the other dropped its sword and quickly drew a shortbow, nocked an arrow and fired at Kyt in one surprisingly fluid motion.

Orc Archer falchion attack: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (3) + 4 = 7
falchion damage: 2d4 + 4 ⇒ (4, 4) + 4 = 12
Orc Archer composite shortbow attack: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (9) + 1 = 10 -4 due to firing into melee
arrow damage: 1d6 + 3 ⇒ (1) + 3 = 4

The elf, a tight grin on her lips, was deep within the moment as she executed the movement called Grasp The Thrush's Tail with her right hand, and with forceful gentleness, pushed the surprised orc back from her. The monk fell back into a ready stance as the archer's arrow sailed high over her shoulder.

Eager to put down the warrior-monk, two of the greataxe-wielding orc raiders ran to join the fray while the third let go of its weapon and produced another, the bolas that had been hanging from his belt which it then whirled high overhead.

Orc Hurler 1 greataxe attack: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (12) + 4 = 16
greataxe damage: 1d12 + 4 ⇒ (4) + 4 = 8
Orc Hurler 2 greataxe attack: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (17) + 4 = 21
greataxe damage: 1d12 + 4 ⇒ (12) + 4 = 16

Kyt met the first axe-bearing orc with her left hand, performing the same movement as she had with falchion-wielding orc, with the same result. But the sound emitted by the skulls of the whirling bolas distracted the elf, bringing her out of the moment and allowing the second orc with an axe to land a clean hit on her.

Kyt has 12 hit points remaining and is at the Wounded wound threshold. She takes a -2 penalty on attack rolls, saving throws, skill checks, and ability checks, nor to AC and caster level.

Since Nyym held his action this round, he can choose to either go before any of the orc attacks (and change his place in the initiative order accordingly) or, wait to go on his normal initiative. If he does go this round, then any orc Nyym attacks would be flat-footed and he would gain the benefit of sneak attack as well.

As for Liesel-Marie and the others....

Patrol Sergeant Frum offered no resistance to Liesel-Marie helping up from the ground. The men have fallen back to a rally point and will return to this position, began the man after a moment. But in the mean time, that leaves only us to hold things down until they do. And yer right, both about my intent and what Roderick would want. Thank ya fer remindin' me of dat, miss.

With a determined look, the man began laying out possible actions they could take.

Everyone receives a story award of 25 XP, bringing the total to 7,245 and 755 XP away from tier 3. He's still not sober, but you're reinforcing the positive that he could do and deserves to be rewarded.

A reminder, in the event that Rohan hasn't looked at the spoiler in one of my previous posts: Rabus gave y'all two potions of remove sickness (quells feelings of illness and nausea in the imbiber, giving it a +4 morale bonus on saving throws against disease, nausea, and sickened effects. If the subject is already under the influence of one of these effects when drinking the potion, that effect is suppressed for 10 minutes) and two vials of soothe syrup (for 1 hour after drinking soothe syrup, you gain a +5 alchemical bonus on saving throws made to resist effects that would make you nauseated or sickened) as a reward for saving him. Due to his current inebriated state, the patrol sergeant is considered to be sickened, so these items would help in making him more useful in the upcoming sortie, as he'd be able to coordinate attacks with the group and improve everyone's chances of defeating the impending rush of enemy raiders.

The items that can be used in the defense of the gate provide the following effects:

Barricades: Two barricades have been set up on the hill leading toward the western gate. The barricades are approximately 3 feet high and 5 feet wide. It costs 2 squares of movement to cross a barricade. A barricade provides cover, but only to creatures within 30 feet of it. An attacker can ignore the cover if he’s closer to the obstacle than his target.

Brace and Reach Weapons: The glaive has the reach special weapon feature, the guisarme has reach and trip, the halberd has brace and trip, the two longspears have brace and reach, and the ranseur has disarm and reach.

Reach: You use a reach weapon to strike opponents 10 feet away, but you can’t use it against an adjacent foe.
Trip: You can use a trip weapon to make trip attacks. If you are tripped during your own trip attempt, you can drop the weapon to avoid being tripped.
Brace: If you use a readied action to set a brace weapon against a charge, you deal double damage on a successful hit against a charging creature.
Disarm: When you use a disarm weapon, you get a +2 bonus on Combat Maneuver Checks to disarm an enemy.

Large Boulder: A large boulder that came crashing into Trunau not long after the raid began sits in the middle of the hill between the two barricades. The boulder is nearly 10 feet across, and the PCs can roll the stone down the hill (toward the gates) at almost any angle. Additionally, Mesa can point out that the boulder picked up some of the same alchemical reagent that set fire to the trees behind your position, and can be ignited with a torch. Starting the boulder on its journey downhill requires a move action and a successful DC 13 Strength check. The boulder travels in a 10-foot-wide line, attacking all creatures in its path. The boulder has a melee attack bonus of +10; on a successful hit, it deals 3d6 points of bludgeoning damage (plus 1d6 points of fire damage if it’s on fire). In addition, any creature struck by the boulder must succeed at a Reflex save or be knocked prone. The boulder crashes through any barricades in its path, but comes to a halt when it hits a sturdy solid object such as the inner quarter’s wall.

Rolling Logs: Two bundles of logs have been lashed to the western side of the westernmost barricade, one on each side of the road. This timber can be cut loose to roll downhill with devastating effect. Releasing the lashings of one of the log bundles requires two full-round actions (thus, releasing a bundle takes one character 2 rounds, and two characters 1 round; four characters could release both bundles in 1 round). Alternatively, a bundle can be released as a standard action by dealing at least 2 points of damage to the lashings with a slashing weapon. When unleashed, a bundle of logs tumbles down the hill in a 20-foot-wide line, attacking all creatures in its path. A bundle of rolling logs has a melee attack bonus of +15; on a successful hit, it deals 3d6 points of bludgeoning damage. In addition, any creature struck by the logs must succeed at a Reflex save or be knocked prone. The rolling logs stop when they reach the western curtain wall.

Sharpened Stakes: The easternmost barricade is equipped with sharpened and splintered wooden fences that were salvaged from the wreckage of nearby homes. A PC can ready an action to impale an incoming attacker on the fence posts as though readying a brace weapon against a charge. If readied in this way, the fence posts deal 2d8 points of damage to an orc that ends its movement on the barricade in a square threatened by the PC.

Ah, thank you. In at least two cases, I was overlooking the potential application of gravity in the coming melee.

Silently cheering for Kyt and Nyym to deal with the five remaining orcs quickly.

Not a problem. Though keep in mind that while the patrol sergeant seems better after his spew, he technically is still drunk and suffering from the sickened condition. And it's easy to forget that Trunau sits on a hill. I do it far more often than I'd care to admit. :)

Rohan gathers the surroundings and calls out to Liesel and the group.

"Grab the potion from my side to give to the Sergent, and I will cut the ropes for the logs to go tumbling down. Liesel your the muscle around here push that boulder down the hill, create a big crashing effect with all these tumbling down."

Rohan immediately summons Stone saw blades from the ground as though they were spinning out of the ground from beneath the earth and darts both of them towards the Rolling Logs lashings in order to break them free, then takes a 30 foot movement back to the otherside of the barricade. A final saw blade immediately flies towards the orcs approaching us.

Stone Saw blade attack: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (14) + 9 = 23
Damage Saw blade 1, Log Lashing 1: 1d6 + 4 ⇒ (3) + 4 = 7
Damage Saw blade 2, Log Lashing 2: 1d6 + 4 ⇒ (2) + 4 = 6
Damage Saw blade 3, Random Orc at gate: 1d6 + 4 ⇒ (3) + 4 = 7

We need to wait until the orcs are actually through the gate. The map is pre-done for when they come through. And it's apparently going to be a good thing if we can light the boulder on fire before I push it - will my flame blade ability (I forget its name) work?

Nyym was shocked by the sudden arrival of Kyt. But at the same time it really should not have been surprised as she seams to have a habit of it just as he himself had a tendency to get deeper in then he should at times.

I must thank her later for her timely arrival. One of these days my ability to find trouble is gonna be the death of me.

With that last thought Nyym moves into flanking position on the falshon wielded and goes for his dual jutsu...

attack1: 1d20 + 4 + 3 + 1 + 1 + 2 - 2 ⇒ (9) + 4 + 3 + 1 + 1 + 2 - 2 = 18

damage: 2d4 + 1d6 ⇒ (4, 1) + (3) = 8

attack2: 1d20 + 4 + 3 + 1 + 1 + 2 - 2 ⇒ (11) + 4 + 3 + 1 + 1 + 2 - 2 = 20

damage: 2d4 + 1d6 ⇒ (2, 1) + (4) = 7

Looking for Me? speaking in orcish.

Then to Kyt

Welcome to the party. We need to get to Silvermane. He's been badly injured.

Mesa wasted little time, trusting the large woman to deal with the drunkard and the addled Rocky as she made her way over to the fight. In truth she didn't need to get close to it. Since she could hear the fight, that meant that they could hear her.

Getting into a good spot near a building, well out of range of getting attacked, but close enough to be noticed by the ones behind her at the gate and those fighting.

Drawing the short sword flute, Mesa began to play.

Da Music

Thin scales begin to form across the skin of Mesa and her allies, including the drunk Guard,and the Druid more snake like than anything else, there seems to be a slight increase in their overall health along with the protection.

The effect of the song is two fold, cause I actually finally read up on my stuff.
All party members gain a +2 bonus to its natural armor and +2 to con.

Rather than having Mesa roll for initiative, I'm setting it at 20. This way her previous action takes place after Nyym's attack, which occurs on his initiative. Until Mesa ends her performance, This also means that Round 2 is underway.

Bardic Song Transition: Linkin Park - Numb (Official Instrumental)

Nyym: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (16) + 6 = 22
Mesa: 20
Kyt: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (16) + 2 = 18
Orc Archers: 1d20 + 0 ⇒ (15) + 0 = 15
Orc Hurlers: 1d20 + 0 ⇒ (13) + 0 = 13

Kyt gave a slight smile, both at Nyym's timely elimination of the falchion-wielding orc and at his welcome, but she quickly became serious when he made mention of the druid Silvermane. Right! the warrior-monk proclaimed. Let's make these Twisted Hearts remember this day for all of their days.

Kyt's unarmed strike with Stunning Fist: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (6) + 6 = 12 -2 due to Wounded condition; +2 to hit due to flank
unarmed strike damage: 1d6 + 2 ⇒ (5) + 2 = 7

She performed a delicate sidestep to her right, where the elf directed her attack on the first of two axe-wielding orcs that were in her face, executing a series of palm strikes where each hit was stronger than the one before. On the final strike in the series, the heel of her hand slammed into the pit of the orc's stomach.

Orc Hurler Fortitude save: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (1) + 3 = 4

The elf was rewarded with the sight of her opponent's weapon slipping from his grasp and the sound of him struggling to breathe.

Ahead of her, Kyt could see the orc archer lining up its shot, fully intent on bringing her.

It never got the chance as a trio of hulking, roughly humanoid creatures of dirt and stone exploded up from the earth behind the archer, faceless save for two glowing gemstone eyes.

Small earth elemental slam: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (3) + 6 = 9 +1 due to earth mastery
slam damage: 1d6 + 4 ⇒ (5) + 4 = 9 +1 due to earth mastery

One four-foot tall elemental lashed aggressively at the archer, who was forced to move out of its reach. Instead firing on the elf, the archer turned back to deal with this newest threat.

Orc Archer composite shortbow attack: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (17) + 1 = 18
arrow damage: 1d6 + 3 ⇒ (4) + 3 = 7

The orc's arrow buried itself deep in the earth elemental's chest, but if it seemed bothered by the attack, the creature didn't express it in any way.

The bola whirling orc responded in kind to the little rockman, sending its weapon after it as well.

Orc Hurler bola attack: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (19) + 1 = 20
bola damage: 1d6 + 3 ⇒ (2) + 3 = 5 nonlethal

Two of the skulls flew at the creature parallel to one another and hit either side of the elemental's torso while the lighter third skull went around to wrap its arms.

Unaware of the fighting taking place behind them, the orc that had been struck by Kyt continued trying to catch its breath. His axe-brother, nonplussed by its partner's situation, continued to press Kyt with an attack of its own.

Orc Hurler greataxe attack: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (8) + 4 = 12
greataxe damage: 1d12 + 4 ⇒ (5) + 4 = 9

Despite the orc's best effort, Kyt managed to stay outside of the reach of the axe's blade, gracefully avoiding her opponent's wild swing.

I didn't forget about the other two earth elementals. They absconded with Silvermane while the first made its attack. This ends Round 2. Round 3 starts now. Nyym, you're up!

I've updated the Fallen Tower battlemap to account for the actions of round 2.

Nyym is already flanking with Kyt against the one she stunned. What's more, that stun effect only lasts for one round. So if he moves to flank with her against the second axe-wielding orc, Nyym would actually run the risk of provoking an attack of opportunity from that orc, plus he'd be at risk from the first axe-orc as the effects of the stun come to an end. He could potentially avoid the AoO by making a DC 14 Acrobatics check if he still wants to that action, or he could take advantage of the flank he already has and attempt to finish off the stunned orc, who has lost it's Dex modifier and has a-2 to AC on top of that (and that loss of Dex modifier means Nyym would be able to perform his sneak attack against it as well).

Your call.

Nyym winced at the brutal punishment Kyt delivered to the orc..

Mental note to self, don't make the elf monk mad. Mad Monk equals hazard to ones health.

He also noted the sudden change in his skin as the snake like scales formed out of nowhere and smiled. He knew from the change in his skin the bard was near. But knowing her distaste for close quarter combat, she would support from a distance. But this did not both Nyym in the least cause he understood that that was where she was most proficient.

Thank you Mesa.

Nyym moves to finish off the stunned orc before it could become a threat again..

attack: 1d20 + 4 + 3 + 1 + 1 + 2 ⇒ (2) + 4 + 3 + 1 + 1 + 2 = 13

damage: 2d8 + 1 + 1d6 ⇒ (7, 4) + 1 + (6) = 18

As the hapless orc fell to Nyym's lightning sword, Kyt turned her attention to the remaining axe-wielding orc. But rather than attack, the elf centered her effort on a defensive posture. Full Round action: total defense (+4 dodge bonus to AC, with additional +2 bonus due to 3 ranks of Acrobatics; increases Kyt's AC to 22, lowered to 20 due to Wounded condition)

Bound around the arms by the bolas, the rockman trundled its way rapidly toward the orc that had hurled the weapon that it now was ensnared with, its head tilted forward as though it were charging.

Earth elemental slam attack: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (6) + 6 = 12 +2 due to charge, +1 due to earth mastery
slam attack damage: 1d6 + 4 ⇒ (4) + 4 = 8 +1 due to earth mastery

The rockman buried its head right into the orc's stomach. The warrior grunted loudly from the impact.

The archer, taken aback by the aggressive little being's action, backed further away from the rockman.

Meanwhile, the axe-wielding orc attempted once again to separate Kyt's head from her shoulders.

Orc Hurler's greataxe attack: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (8) + 4 = 12
greataxe damage: 1d12 + 4 ⇒ (11) + 4 = 15

The long-limbed elf's flowing movements proved to be a source of frustration to the attacking raider, his weapon hitting nothing but air with each swing it took.

This concludes round 2. Round 3 begins now. Nyym, you're up!

Battle Song: Linkin Park - Numb (Official Instrumental)

Nyym: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (16) + 6 = 22
Mesa: 20
Kyt: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (16) + 2 = 18
Orc Archer: 1d20 + 0 ⇒ (15) + 0 = 15
Orc Hurlers: 1d20 + 0 ⇒ (13) + 0 = 13

acrobatics: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (4) + 4 = 8

Nyyms attempt at a tuck and roll to get back to a flanking position was less then graceful as me came up close to the wall. Once in position he quickly goes for his Kinetic Katana again in hopes of doing enough damage to the orc to put him down before he can respond or soften him enough for Kyt to finish him quickly..

kinetic Katana: 1d20 + 4 + 3 + 1 + 1 + 2 ⇒ (7) + 4 + 3 + 1 + 1 + 2 = 18

damage: 2d8 + 1 ⇒ (3, 1) + 1 = 5

Nyym knew he did not do enough to drop the orc, but smiles as he knew the hell Kyt was about to unleash on the now distrdistracted and injured orc.

Mesa glanced back at the ones behind her, letting the music continue.

I forgot to take into account the temporary hit points that Kyt received from the Aetheric Revitalization earlier. 9 of the 16 damage from the greataxe swing was from her temporary hit points, leaving only 7 that actually got through. This puts her at 21 hit points and at the Grazed wound threshold, not Wounded. She takes a -1 penalty on attack rolls, saving throws, skill checks, and ability checks, as well as to AC and caster level.

Nyyms attempt at a tuck and roll to get back to a flanking position was less then graceful as me came up close to the wall.

As Nyym came in at the orc, it saw an opportunity to eliminate the elf's ally before he could rise to his feet. Its lips twisted into sadistic sneer, the orc brought its greataxe to bear on the half-drow.

Orc Hurler's Attack of Opportunity: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (10) + 4 = 14
greataxe damage: 1d12 + 4 ⇒ (2) + 4 = 6

However, even one of Nyym's 'less than graceful' moments proved to be an exercise in futility for the orc as his weapon bit into the ground rather than the flesh of its opponent. The attack left the orc over-extended and open to an attack from the half-drow, which it took using a newly manifested lightning sword as he came up from his forward roll.

The orc, grimacing from the searing pain, saw the elf warrior-monk come complete the flowing movements of her defensive dance by unsheathing the strange crescent-shaped blade from its sheathe on her back, which she used in a sweeping two-handed slash of her own. Normally, drawing a weapon would provoke an attack of opportunity from the orc. But since it already used its one AoO on Nyym and it does not have Combat Reflexes, the orc is unable to take advantage of this situation

Kyt's temple sword attack: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (15) + 7 = 22 -1 due to Grazed threshold; +2 due to flank
temple sword damage: 1d8 + 4 ⇒ (6) + 4 = 10

Her attack left a horrific diagonal wound from the orc's left shoulder down to its right side, causing it to fall with a gurgle escaping its tusked mouth.

Further away, the rockman descended into the ground from which it had come, taking with it the bola that had pinned its arms.

Both orcs stared at where the creature had once been standing, not sure what either of them had just witnessed. They then turned their gazes back to where the others had gone only to find that not only the elf still lived but that she had an ally. and that their companions had all been killed.

The orc archer raised its bow and launched an arrow at the elf.

Orc Archer composite shortbow attack: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (13) + 1 = 14
arrow damage: 1d6 + 3 ⇒ (1) + 3 = 4

The other stepped up to where the archer stood then charged toward the half-drow, drawing its own greataxe as it ran.

Orc Hurler greataxe attack: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (14) + 4 = 18 -3 due to Critical threshold
greataxe damage: 1d12 + 4 ⇒ (7) + 4 = 11

Kyt's arms seemed to move almost without effort as she brought the temple sword up, then down, to slice through the archer's arrow while Nyym sidestepped the lumbering orc's axe swing.

This concludes round 3. Round 4 begins now. Nyym you're up!

Transition Battle Song: Linkin Park - The Catalyst (Pendulum Remix)

Nyym: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (16) + 6 = 22
Mesa: 20
Kyt: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (16) + 2 = 18
Orc Archer: 1d20 + 0 ⇒ (15) + 0 = 15
Orc Hurler: 1d20 + 0 ⇒ (13) + 0 = 13

As the orc charged by, Nyym followed his side step up with a spin that looked to away from the orc. But at the completion of the spin, Nyym again brought his Kinetic Katana to bare in the hopes of the orcs momentum carrying him charging into the lightning blade..

kinetic Katana: 1d20 + 4 + 3 + 1 + 1 ⇒ (10) + 4 + 3 + 1 + 1 = 19

damage: 2d8 + 1 ⇒ (3, 2) + 1 = 6

Again Nyym knows he did not drop his foe, but again Kyt was set up for the killing blow. Then they would deal with the pesky archer. The 2 had this far made a deadly team.

Nyym's spinning slash with his lightning blade sent the orc's head flying its shoulders.

Kyt, not to be outdone by her companion, used her long legs to cross the the distance between herself and the archer before it could get off another shot.

Kyt's temple sword attack: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (12) + 7 = 19 -1 due to Grazed threshold
temple sword damage: 1d8 + 4 ⇒ (8) + 4 = 12

Bringing her blade down from overhead, the elf levered the sword with her left hand and twisted it slightly before making contact with the orc. She ended the movement with the temple sword extended before her, the weapon just below her waist. Kyt then struck the haft of the temple sword with the palm of her right hand before returning back to its sheath. That action revealed a vertical slash from the right side of her opponent's body that came out through the left arm pit as the split portion of the orc's torso slid to the ground with a thud, followed by by the rest of the dead creature.

And that concludes combat. Good job! Everyone gets 210 XP, bringing everyone's total to 7,455 experience and only 545 XP away from tier 3.

Searching the orc bodies will turn up the following items:
3 tanglefoot bags, 6 suits of studded leather, 3 greataxes, 5 bolas, 3 quivers containing 57, 3 composite shortbows [Str +3], and 3 falchions.

Also nearby is the body an acolyte from Sanctuary, bristling with orc javelins. It's right hand seems to be clutching tightly a ten-inch length of golden-toned wood.

OK so that was one section what ever happen to the section with me and Liesel who I thought Mesa was with. It seems like we have either been over looked or just not in the same area. I did an action but no response....?

OK so that was one section what ever happen to the section with me and Liesel who I thought Mesa was with. It seems like we have either been over looked or just not in the same area. I did an action but no response....?

Apparently you have not been paying attention to the posts that I've made regarding the situation. So.... one last time.

There is nothing going on at the gate right now aside from preparation for the fight to come. That prep includes: helping Patrol Sergeant Frum and the revelations of the possible tactics that can be used for the defense of the gate plus the fact the soon-to-come fight will be a holding action (an attack designed to prevent an enemy from attacking, or from moving its position) to allow the militia the opportunity to rally and come to your assistance. No orcs have broken through the gate yet, so there's been nothing for Rohan to attack.

Nyym saw one last pocket of orcs near the fallen tower and moved off to take care of them before the fight at the gate was to start. Kyt went to help and and Mesa was the only other character to notice this after being given Perception checks to notice. Nyym also noticed that with the tower destroyed (the same marked tower where Team Ruby had rescued a drunken and dangling Patrol Sergeant Frum earlier), orcs could come through the hole that was now in the inner quarter's defenses. That skirmish just ended.

So let me say this again because the posts I've made, both in this thread and in the discussion thread (Link provided), have clearly been misunderstood by you.

There is no fight going on at the gate. The battlemap for the gate is not in play. I'm not ignoring Liesel-Marie and Rohan. You need to decide if you're going to help Patrol Sergeant Frum get over being sick from too much drinking or not. You don't have to, but it'll make things really interesting during the actual fight if you don't. The fight at the gate will be starting soon. And there's also the matter of the hole that may need to be dealt with, but that only becomes relevant once Nyym brings it up in play.

There seems to be some tension building, and not of the dramatic kind. I hope everyone can take a step back and have a deep breath. Rohan’s last post did include an instruction to give Frum one of his potions to remedy his inebriated state. I have frankly been too busy to really post anything and I was enjoying the cinematic combat that was going on.

Liesel-Marie, not sure what the purpose of the potion is, retrieves it and hands it to the sergeant. ”Drink this.” Her expression does not invite debate. And she could probably force it down his throat if she felt it necessary. The look on her face makes one suspect that she feels it is necessary...

”Sergeant, you heard Rohan. His ideas sound good to me, but you are an old hand at this. What should we do first? Can we expect aid from your men?”

No tension on my end. I understood that he asked for someone give Frum one of the remedies, but until that happened, there was nothing more I could do with you three and the NPC except unleash the orcs. Which I wasn't ready to do yet.

I also haven't forgotten your question, and the answer is yes. I see no reason why LM couldn't ignite the chemical substance on the rock using her kinetic flame blade.

Assuming you mean one of the potions of remove sickness...

After downing the sweet yet spicy concoction, the patrol sergeant seemed more alert and steady than he had been mere moments ago.

Well, fer you or me, the most sensible thing would be to just overwhelm our position through the mass of sheer numbers. Dat'd be most sensible, I reckon.

Sergeant Frum turned his gaze back to the gates for moment before regarding the Erutaki warrior with a grin. But lucky us, these be orcs we're dealin' wi'. The man then gave Liesel-Marie a wink. Dey'll use their numbers, sure nuff. But only in small groups. The trick, then, becomes clearin' 'em out fast enough before it becomes a slog an' we get overrun. And dats where all dis comes in. The patrol sergeant gestured at the various implements of maiming and killing gathered around them.

We kin use the barricades to our advantage, to maximize our small numbers. Dey won't know how large a force dey'll be dealin' wit, not at first, mind ya. But dat'll change the longer the fight goes. Use the polearms if'n ya can. If not, don't worry none. We got da stakes and logs dat kin be used when dey start gatherin' up too much. And watch out fer the dead bodies. Once we start killin' 'em, dey' start to pilin' up, making it difficult to move and such. But if'n yer clever enough, ya might be able to take advantage of dat.

Dead Bodies: While bodies and prone allies don’t normally impede movement, the barricades and the craggy nature of the inner quarter’s hill create a special exception. A square containing a single fallen orc does not require additional movement, but it cannot be charged through; a square containing two fallen orcs costs 2 squares of movement to cross; a square containing three or more fallen orcs costs 3 squares of movement to cross. If the PCs can cause orcs to fall in particular spaces (such as by taking readied actions that trigger when an orc enters a specific square), the number of fallen enemies can quickly pile up, in effect strengthening the barricades.

As fer the men... well, we'll just have to hold out long enough fer dem to arrive. Patrol Cap'n Grath will git here as soon he can, more den likely wi' both Patrol Leader Jagrin and Chief Defender Halgra. Den we'll see some real fightin' fer sure.

Meanwhile back over to Nyym and Kyt...

Nyym looks over to the last place he had seen the old druid. Seeing that he was not there any longer, Nyym mover over to the body of the acolyte and recovered the wooden item from her grasp and then did a search of her body for anything else that could be of use..

I am truly sorry we did not arrive sooner priestess and for removing items from your remains. But our need is great. Forgive me.

Nyym then removes all but the armor and weapons from the orcs as time was of the essence. Once done he turned to Kyt..

Take these items back to the rest of the team. The wand and any other items that may be magical give to Mesa. Let them know that the wall has been breached at this location. I will join you shortly. I must check a hunch. I think I now know why the tower was marked. But I must check a couple more locations to be certain. I should not be to long.

With that said, Nyym moves quickly to the next place he remembered seeing a mark. With time being slime, Nyym hoped he did not encounter any trouble along the way. If his hunch was correct, then holding the gate would be even harder as they would then be fighting on multiple fronts.

perception: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (12) + 2 = 14 to watch for trouble as he quickly made his way to next mark.

The closest area marked with a white sword to Nyym's location would be the rock wall behind the town reservoir that is the Hopespring. Climbing up the 80 foot distance would require him to make 11 DC 20 Athletics checks, though by accepting a -5 penalty, he could cut that number to 5 by using accelerated climbing (which allows him to move at half speed rather than one-quarter).

Insert Theme: Those Chosen by the Planet (Metalized) - Artificial Fear

The sound of Ooruk's fists slamming against the gates leading into the inner quarter grew louder as Gorewillow approached the sizeable gathering of orcs. The gangly half-orc received the many hate-filled glares from his larger kin with a sinister sneer as his due. As the witch doctor of the Twisted Heart, his place among the tribal alliance was secured. He had nothing to fear from the likes of them.

Grenseldek's general, on the other hand, was an entirely different matter. Though the chieftain had appointed him to his current position due both to his guile and knowledge of the shamanistic traditions of the tribe, General Kelseph was held in much higher esteem than he was. By defeating her predecessor, Karrguk, in one-on-one combat she had earned her power through might of arms, which to the battle-minded orcs was more important than any intelligence he displayed. Indeed, there were those in the tribe who had thought that with Kelseph's ascendance, she would eliminate the despised half-orc and convince the chieftain to appoint a new witch doctor in his place.

Obviously that had not happened, and it was for a reason that none of the others could have anticipated. Something that Gorewillow reminded them of when he stood before the general.

Mother, he said, bowing out of respect with a flourish. As Gorewillow returned to an upright position, he noted that one word had the desired effect as each of his hated detractors turned their faces away from him.

Have you located the site? The masked general barely acknowledged Gorewillow, much to the delight of Bax.

I believe I have, replied the witch doctor. But it'll require some muscle to get to.

At this, Kelseph regarded her son, her gaze locking with his. She nodded. Take whomever you need. Just make sure that you accomplish the task our chieftain gave you. The strength of our relationship and the protection it affords will be of no consequence should you fail her.

Gorewillow's lips twisted into a sly grin as he pointed in the direction of the asset he required. Bax looked first at her brother then at their mother. There's no way you're getting that. Her tone was incredulous. You need him, mother.

Kelseph's hand found the side of her daughter's masked face, the force of the strike nearly knocking Bax off her feet. Do not question me, child. He at least is about the greater work. So I'll give him what he requires. She then looked back at Gorewillow. Think you can manage him on your own, or will you need others to aid with that?

'The more the merrier', as the humans are fond of saying.

So be it then. Four others will accompany you. The general returned her attention back to the gate, noting that the bars of the portcullis were straining under Ooruk's constant assault. Ooruk, econ remo!

The cave giant grunted in acknowledgement as he locked both of his meaty hands together and performed an overhead strike that saw the iron grating crash heavily to the ground. The gathered orcs of the Twisted Heart began to cheer loudly.

Insert Song: Shinra Corporation Theme (Metalized) - Artificial Fear

You six. The general pointed out a nearby group of warriors. The honor of entering first is yours. See what resistance awaits us. If you can eliminate them, do so.

The chosen orcs growled excitedly as one by one they drew their falchions, then crossed through the open gate and into the inner quarter beyond.

Ooruk, lewl nedo! Kelseph spoke once again in the giant's native language. Utb remo desne ot nedo. Og thiw Gorewillow nad reves mih sa em.

The cave giant grunted once more before moving, guided by the chains of its handlers to where the witch doctor stood. Ooruk stared with vapid eyes at Gorewillow.

Tell him to follow. The half-orc brushed aside his blond bangs from his face, then whistled sharply. A large pair of wolves answered his call. We've got work to do.

As do you, Bax. Kelseph did not need to look to see whether her masked daughter carried out her instructions. The black-clad woman had already disappeared from her mother's side.

The time is fast approaching, and the barricade battle is about to begin. Make whatever preparations you need, as my next post will more than likely kick this party off in grand fashion.

Nyym cursed to himself as he realized the nearest one would require the 80ft climb.. Then had another thought.. Going back to where the tower had collapsed, Nyym made another realization..

Well Nyym old boy, looks like there is only one way your gonna pull this off without being seen as stealthwas obviously not an option here.. Well nothing to it but to do it..

Nyym pulls van is trick, thus burning a point of Ki. That done, Nyym proceeds to climb using his dagger as pitons..

climb 1: 1d20 - 1 ⇒ (3) - 1 = 2

trip7: 3d10 ⇒ (6, 4, 7) = 17

climb 2: 1d20 - 1 ⇒ (4) - 1 = 3

trip7: 3d10 ⇒ (5, 7, 2) = 14

climb 3: 1d20 - 1 ⇒ (13) - 1 = 12

trip7: 3d10 ⇒ (3, 4, 9) = 16

climb 4: 1d20 - 1 ⇒ (13) - 1 = 12

Liesel-Marie looks at the big man, hoping he had been listening, more than a little concerned about his nightmares overwhelming him at the wrong time.

She sheathes her preferred weapon and moves to the eastern barricade, taking up a glaive to reach the enemy to come on the other side. Leaning the glaive against the barricade for easy access, she readies the bow she had gotten earlier for an attention-getting shot against the first orc she sees. As they charge, she intends to ready a fence post for an ugly welcome before starting to work with the glaive.

So it sounds like the pole arms other than the long spears are not something most of us are proficient with, but the sharpened stakes should work for everyone. I think we need to meet them at the barricades and hold them for a round or two, then release the ‘area’ attacks of the boulder and logs once we have more targets to hit. Open to alternative suggestions, as always.