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

Game Master Blayde MacRonan

She turns to the smith-councilor in their midst, "Sara, I fear that Brinya will come to harm while we look in other directions. And more so if we as Team Ruby pay her a visit. Do you know the girl? Would you be able to bring her to a safer location hopefully without raising any suspicion from our quarry?"

These would not necessarily have been in rapid succession. More likely interspersed among the earlier posts.

"Katrezra, please describe your visions. And tells us why you asked Rodrick to leave you be on his last visit. Had you seen something you didn't wish to share with the man?"

I have completely unfounded suspicions regarding the crosses, but none of them are reasonable conclusions for the Erutaki warrior to have reached, so I shall not share them. And they diverge wildly - they cannot all be true and, as such, would only confusion the issue, anyway.

Katrezra regarded the Erutaki for a long moment, concern etched across his features, then nodded his head. In my vision, I saw a bearded man, with eyes and skin the color of amethysts. In his right hand was a broad-bladed and slightly curved sword, while his left bore a shimmering orb of crimson.

As the seer spoke, the sky overhead rumbled and a chill could be felt in the air. Unwilling, or unable, to stop talking, the half-orc continued. Authority was given unto him, and with it, power and glory. The orb burned with an inner fire and at its center sat an unblinking eye, one that seemed to stare at me, its lidless gaze piercing my very soul.... Katrezra gripped the top of his cane tightly, his knuckles turning white. Even in the telling, I tremble as a child would. The eye saw me, as surely as I saw it, and the thought fills me with a fear I have never known. How could I explain to him what it was that I saw when I myself did not know?

Katrezra looked to say more, but seemed to be at a loss to continue. In the end, he could only stand there, a look of utter helplessness upon his face.

She turns to the smith-councilor in their midst, "Sara, I fear that Brinya will come to harm while we look in other directions. And more so if we as Team Ruby pay her a visit. Do you know the girl? Would you be able to bring her to a safer location hopefully without raising any suspicion from our quarry?"

These would not necessarily have been in rapid succession. More likely interspersed among the earlier posts.

Sara shook her head. I only know her through her trade as a weaver. Beyond that... The smith shrugged, then continued. There is some truth to what you say, in that she could come to harm while you seek other avenues to gather the information you seek. Given my role in aiding you with this morning's attack, I fear that anything I could do would do more than raise suspicion from this cowardly enemy of yours. It could place her in even more danger.

Kytynna looked to Sara then to Liesel-Marie, her eyes now solid spheres of blue. We may not know each other all that well, but I won't sit by if she could be in danger. She carries a child within her, Rodrick's child. We must do something, anything, to help her. I'll go and look after her while the rest of you continue gathering information. This way, we make better use of our limited resources.

Liesel-Marie nods. "I'm not a fan of splitting up, but sometimes one can do more than many. If you find an excuse or opportunity to have her move to another location - perhaps Cham needs some weaving done - consider it. I'm not comfortable with her remaining in a location that everyone knows is hers, as you understand."

She draws a hand over her eyes, "But having her move to an unusual place indicates something unusual is happening, which might get tongues wagging. I doubt our foes are everywhere, but I'll bet they listen to rumors for advantages. Fine. May a host of gods watch over the two of you. Be safe." She reaches out and pulls the elf to her for a sisterly hug.

Be on your guard for as you have seen, this coward has a nack for making himself invisible. Also the fact that he is still within the city walls tells me he may not be alone so tread carefully. Also I might suggest we hear up better then we are. We only know a partial of the information we need so we are still going half blind. Our enemy has already shown that he cares little for who we are with or where we are when he attacks. I have seen some people's reactions at the mention of Councelor Morninghawks name. This foe showed no fear in attacking us even with her accompanying us. That makes him more dangerous.

"I agree 10 folds, as this man or assassin would be has no remorse and is out for our deaths if this is the case we must tread carefully. I agree that Kytynna should remain back while we move forward, perhaps she will uncover information from Sgt Frum when he awakes that will be beneficial later. In the mean time I don't think we should wait around here any longer. Lets make our way to the Plague house. It just Nyym, Liesel and me is that correct? Kytynna will search for Brinya"

All this talk has Rohan questioning what is going on, there is so much stuff that is coming in that he doesn't seem to understand it all. Although he tries to gather his thoughts.

"Sara, I understand, I will not ask for your assistance any further in combat, I do not want you to become a target any more they you may have already. I think its best if you find somewhere safe, or perhaps an extra guard or two at your smith for extra protection should he return."

Rohan tried to say that Sara needed extra protection without insulting her amazing build and skill in the previous combat. Though he wasn't sure if he pulled that off. Then he looks to Nyym to address him.

"Nyym, I'm concerned that we are going in half blind as well, but what lies within the plague house could in fact be information that is extremely important, even important enough to help solve this case. Thats the hope anyways... However, we need to head there soon, if we are lucky and it is the assassins hiding spot we might be able to arrive there before he does if not at least catch him by surprise."

Liesel-Marie snorts, "The only reason Sara Morninghawk would hire a guard would be to protect him." She looks at the half-orc, suddenly serious, and adds, "But Rohan is right - whoever killed Rodrick doesn't fight fair and will certainly not approach you without every advantage, should that be his plan. I don't think it is, I think we have drawn his ire from asking questions, as Rodrick did, but I could be wrong."

"To the Plague House?"

Kytynna returned the Erutaki's embrace with one of her own. Uchu no Mugen no Chikara ga Kori Kotte, Makoto no Daiwa no Miyo ga, Nari Natta. It means, "The eternal power of the Universe has gathered itself to create the world with true and grand harmony." It is a water blessing that I learned as a child. The elf's brow crinkled. How do I know that. She shook her head. Anyway, be safe. So much depends on what we do.

Sara spoke up. I do believe you were tasked by Halgra to conduct this investigation? She did that in her capacity as head of the Council of Defenders. As a member of that self-same council, I want what she wants - a resolution. Given what I've seen, however, I'm not so sure that you are well-equipped to do what is needed. What do you think, Councilor Staginsdar?

The dwarf's expression took on a serious mien as she cleared her throat. I concur wholeheartedly, Councilor Morninghawk. But what can we do? After all, Halgra expects them to get results.

True, true. And if you think my temper is something... Sara left the rest unspoken. After a momentary pause, the smith said, I guess since we can't help these investigators directly, that least we can do is make sure they're equipped for the job they've been given.

Agrit stomped over to Liesel-Marie and handed her a slip of parchment. Before you go anywhere near the Plague House, how about you take yourselves down to the Barterstones first. Present this and you'll be allowed to properly gear yourselves up, to a limit of 780 gold sails for each of you.

It's probably more than you deserve, Sara said as she let her gaze linger on each member of Team Ruby. So prove me wrong. Go out there and show me that Halgra's trust in you isn't misplaced. Nor mine for that matter. The last was added with a quick wink.

Though I may refer to any currency you acquire by their mundane names out of character, in game I won't. So, to better facilitate an understanding, I present to you the setting names of the currency you will come to gain and spend. This has been brought to you by the Bank of Abadar.
Copper Pinch: Both the singular and plural term for this copper coin is pinch and never pinches.
Silver Shield: The silver coins are always referred to as silver shields, and never simply as silvers.
Gold Sail: Like silver shields, gold coins are never abbreviated, and are always gold sails.
Platinum Crown: The platinum coins are either platinum crowns or just crowns.

Liesel-Marie is speechless as she takes in the import of what the councilors had said. Then she looked at the parchment for a long time. Quietly, almost to herself, she finally speaks, "'s not fer bein' a joke, friends. 'Tis a note fer the keep t' 'elp 's get 'r kit."

She looks at Agrit, then Sara. "Aye, we will earn every pinch of this. Ye will not be sorry."

Does this cover all four characters?

Liesel-Marie is speechless as she takes in the import of what the councilors had said. Then she looked at the parchment for a long time. Quietly, almost to herself, she finally speaks, "'s not fer bein' a joke, friends. 'Tis a note fer the keep t' 'elp 's get 'r kit."

She looks at Agrit, then Sara. "Aye, we will earn every pinch of this. Ye will not be sorry."

Does this cover all four characters?

Let's see..... limit of 780 gp for each of you... I think that's a yes. Do bear in mind that given the Automatic Bonus Progression being used, I couldn't give you the normal PC wealth for your level, as that table takes into account magic items. So I used the Heroic NPC Wealth by Level instead, which also takes into account magic, but is far easier for a town like Trunau deal with. So, with that said, do not seek to take undue advantage of what has been given. Hint: coming in under budget helps a great deal, especially in case Councilor Lessie Crumkin gets wind of what Sara and Agrit have done. She's the council's treasurer and high priest of the church of Abadar in town, which is also the bank. ;)

Looking at the others of Team Ruby as she grabs any gear she has set down, "Since we have no shaman traveling with us, perhaps some healing draughts would be wise. I'm so used to making do, I'm not even sure I know what to ask for."

** spoiler omitted **

Looking at the others of Team Ruby as she grabs any gear she has set down, "Since we have no shaman traveling with us, perhaps some healing draughts would be wise. I'm so used to making do, I'm not even sure I know what to ask for."

I understand where you're coming from, and you have every right to voice your concerns. But, I've talked with Kyt's player. She's not so much on temporary hiatus, as she's helping the group in a different way. All will be revealed in due course.

Liesel-Marie is speechless as she takes in the import of what the councilors had said. Then she looked at the parchment for a long time. Quietly, almost to herself, she finally speaks, "'s not fer bein' a joke, friends. 'Tis a note fer the keep t' 'elp 's get 'r kit."

She looks at Agrit, then Sara. "Aye, we will earn every pinch of this. Ye will not be sorry."

Of that, I have no doubt. Sara flashed a warm smile at the Erutaki's words.

Agrit's head bobbed in agreement as she gazed knowingly at the members of Team Ruby. Aye, Halgra already placed a sizeable investment in you by asking you to undertake this investigation. We're just upping the stakes a bit is all.

We'll make this quick. You can trade in old gear to receive half their value. Masterwork weapons cost the price of the weapon plus an additional 300 gold, while masterwork armor costs an additional 150 gold. You can't make a mundane item into a masterwork; it has to either be bought or made as such. Kits are an inexpensive means to outfit party members based on class or function, and all sorts exists, though at this time there is nothing specific for the kineticist (sorry Rohan). And while Kyt will leave the healer's satchel with you, as LM stated, cure potions would go a long way to help you out since no one in the party can provide magical healing. Bottom line, prioritize your survival needs and spend accordingly.

I see one problem with Kyt operating on her own. How will we know if she gets into a situation and needs help?

Rohan nearly gasp at the thought of being rewarded such high amount of Gold sails that he couldn't even justify an answer. He dropped to one knee and looked up to Agrit, putting one hand across his chest in a fist, a stony fist but none the less. The sound of stone hitting stone clattered as his hand smacked his chest. The other resting on his lifted knee.

"Agrit, We are great-full for such high praise, and will use your gift wisely."

Rohan lowered his head before speaking, then after her acknowledge of Rohan respect, he stood slowly and looked to the rest of the party. Considering the ideas of what to buy that would be suitable for such a situation.

"What should I buy, they must think the Plague house is a very dangerous place. I better insure myself with proper gear."

Mood Music: Jetta - I'd Love To Change The World (Matstubs Remix)

I see one problem with Kyt operating on her own. How will we know if she gets into a situation and needs help?

Sara raised an eyebrow at the half-drow's matter-of-fact statement. You won't know. That's the risk she's taking. She'll draw less attention looking after Brinya on her own than she would if the lot of you tagged along with her.

Her statement was blunt and to the point. Not wanting to let up, the half-orc blacksmith continued. Unless you don't think she can handle herself without you there to protect her?

Kytynna looked to Sara then back to Nyym. She moved to stand before him, and before he could react, embraced him tightly. I appreciate your concern, but I can do this. They'll need you more than me where you're going because it sounds like this Plague House will require someone with your skills a lot more than someone with mine. She released her hold and handed him the satchel that had been gifted to them all. You look after the others. Let me look after Brinya and her little one.

Agrit cleared her throat once more, drawing everyone's attention her way. Any other day, Brinya would most likely be at the Barterstones selling her wares. However, given recent events, she'll most likely be at home, which I believe is near the Commons.

Casia, who had been silent up to this point, spoke next. The Plague House was the town's original church of Iomedae. When orc raiders came and burned it down, killing in the process the priests within, the decision was made to build the church within the town's walls.

Sara continued, Fifty years ago, Trunau was afflicted with an epidemic. The town authorities at that time decided to build a quarantine structure on the site of the temple for victims of the plague. However, days later, a mysterious fire consumed the hastily built structure and killed all inside, leaving no one alive and the site in ruins once again. Since then, no one else has attempted to build anything on that site.

For obvious reasons, the Plague House has been left alone, save for the occasional children's dare to stand in the center of the blackened beams at sunset, added Agrit. However, there have been sightings of lights moving about the structure at night, and the best trackers have been unable to find any evidence of tracks the following morning. And with each sighting, speculations and theories get thrown around town, ranging from the ghost of Arthuris Bain to will-o'-wisps to treasure hunters.

Arthuris Bain was the priest in charge when the temple was first burned down, Casia explained, a trace of sadness in her voice.

Of course, it could just as easily be traitors gathering there to bring about Trunau's destruction, for all we know. Sara shook her head. Or lovers meeting secretly with one another. The point is be careful. There's no tellin' what you could encounter while you're there.

To speed things along, I'll say that between the four of you, it takes over an hour to get properly kitted up. So when Kytynna takes her leave of the team to go find Brinya, it's noontime. There's a chill in the air, but still warm (roughly in 50s) for the month of Calistril (equivalent to our February) 18 days in.

When everyone has their gear purchased and updated...

Mood Music: Moby - New Dawn Fades (Instrumental)

Leaving the Barterstones, Liesel-Marie, Nyym, and Rohan part ways with Kytynna and set off for the ruins that sat in the shadow of Trunau and Bloodmarch Hill, heading south then turning east to find the burnt-out building. As the group drew closer, they could see that the Plague House’s front doors sat three feet above the ground. Charred wooden beams and ash were all that remained of a small porch and stairs that once led to the entrance. The small windows flanking either side of the doorframe were broken but a large stained glass window dominating the face of the building to the right remained in fine shape, and showed a varicolored image of Iomedae holding her sword aloft.

Circling around, each of you can see that there are multiple ways of entering the ruined building: through the front doors, the collapsed wall, the open wall or the back door. These can be seen on the Plague House map I've posted beneath the map of Trunau. Unless otherwise noted, the doors on the Plague House’s ground level are of good wooden construction (hardness 5, hp 15, break DC 16). Ceilings within the Plague House are generally 10 feet high and all rooms are dark, though those areas with exterior windows currently have dim light during the day due to the overcast weather conditions, even though it's approaching noon.

Meanwhile, in the time it took the others to reach their destination, Kyt had navigated the streets of Trunau, passed through both inner gates (with only the slightest bit of hassle from the soldiers posted there, who had become enamored of her due to her performance in the bale-toss at the Hopeknife Festival), and, after stopping to get directions from passersby, arrived at the boarding house just northwest of the Commons. As the elf approached, she could see a funerary spray of roses, lilies from Tian Xia, chrysanthemums and mini carnations, all white in color, were artfully arranged amongst emerald palm fronds and lush greens on the door. Upon entering, the caretaker, not even looking up from his cleaning, barked out the number to Brinya's room.

Shaking her head, Kytynna continued on to the room and, upon arriving, knocked on the door. Go away, came a grief-stricken voice from within, one that the elf immediately recognized as belonging to Brinya.

After a long day in the streets purchasing equipment they finally arrived at the old Plague House. Rohan did his normal idea of scanning the area and looking for ways to enter, of course finding only the typical ways of entering as mentioned above. He took a few minutes on the outside to prepare himself to enter this place that was said to be horrors and nightmares, I'm sure Rohan had heard of many ghost stories from kids and people around town. This didn't make entering the place any easier, as a quick flash back of the man from his nightmare enter his thoughts.

"Pull yourself together, this should be a simple thing to inspect the building. Better be safe then sorry."

Rohan recalled his gear he recently purchased and downed a potion, Antiplauge, which felt like the right thing for a plague house. He looked to the others and quickly downed the flask, the look on his face had the expression of the most nastiest tasting liquid someone could imagine. His face went completely pale, almost to the point the he wanted to throw up, he brought both his hands to his mouth just in case. A few seconds passed and he eased back up, pulling his hands from his mouth and opening the waterskin and taking a few good chugs of water.

"Ugh.. Now that was fowl tasting crap I've ever drank, but I hope it was worth it. Yuck"

Rohan turns to the side and spits out some from his mouth, still having a bitter rotten taste in his mouth. Thinking to himself:

"I really hope that I don't have to do that again"

Antiplague Potion: If you drink a vial of this foul-tasting, milky tonic, you gain a +5 alchemical bonus on Fortitude saving throws against disease for the next hour. If already infected, you may also make two saving throws (without the +5 bonus) that day and use the better result.

He looks back up at the group, now ready to enter the plague house, and while he considers his approach he not a tactical adviser and mentions to the group.

"Looks like the best way to go would be through the front door for your safety, but I could traverse the rocks on the side of the building with no difficulty. Which way do you wish to enter? I'm good with any as we have to start somewhere."

Rohan again examines the place again.

During his first examination of the place could he identify any sounds that are out of the ordinary such as people talking, foot steps, ghost...?

Perception for examination: 1d20 + 0 ⇒ (12) + 0 = 12

Nothing out of the ordinary can be heard by Rohan. Oh, and for future reference, an incorporeal creature moves silently and cannot be heard with Perception checks if it doesn’t wish to be while you are on the Material Plane.

While Rohan waits for the group to gather their thoughts, he steps over to the pile of stone, and picks one of the pieces of stone out, takes out his silver stone that he magically formed back at the inn, and begin to merge them, Using his side dagger to carve a little spot into a stone rock to embed his silver stone into. The stone rock was as smooth as he could possible get it. Though he had no ability to shape the rock he was able to break away a few of the pieces channeling his energy to use his kinectic blast to chip away small pieces of stone that he couldn't chip away with the dagger. He only channeled small amounts of energy to avoid shattering the rock he was working with. He looks at it and smiles.

"I will name you Firma, my Familiar"

Of course at this time it is just a rock with a silver stone embedded into it, Rohan is planning to create a soul within it to imbue with the power of a familiar in the near future.

Don't mind me. Carry on. There's nothing to see here.

Perception: 1d20 + 0 ⇒ (3) + 0 = 3
Perception: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (13) + 3 = 16

Before approaching any openings, Nyym desides to do a thorough search of the outside area.

Nyym will take 20 do search the outside area for tracks as well as any evidence of recent activity.

Liesel-Marie will remain near the half-drow, watching to make sure something or someone doesn't take advantage of his distraction while he performs his task. She has her axe in hand as she looks around.

Perception: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (4) + 2 = 6

Survival aid: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (6) + 1 = 7

Like those from the town that had come before them, Nyym was unable to find any sign of tracks. The Erutaki stood close by, weapon in hand as her companion went about his task. Her eyes darted about, but she saw no threats to the team

Athletics check to aid: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (10) + 4 = 14
Athletics: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (8) + 3 = 11 +2 bonus = +13
Athletics check to aid: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (1) + 2 = 3
Athletics check: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (19) + 2 = 21
Stealth check: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (19) + 1 = 20
Stealth check: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (14) + 5 = 19

After everyone gets done looking around Rohan considers that the best entrance is through the top right corner between A and B Section where the wall has collapsed. It the most visible and has the most strategic defense when entering the building. He turns to the group to inform them of his decision.

"I believe the best entrance is through this hole in the wall it will provide good defense until we enter further into the rooms. I will lead the way.

Rohan moves forward over the rocks as though they don't imped his movement "Earthwalk" and looks into the first section of the room without climbing in, glancing behind him to see if the rest of the group was following. Assuming the room is dark he reached into his bag and pulled out a Sunrod to insure that he could see only lighting it should there be darkness. He maintains his position at the edge of the room looking in.

Whats inside the first section of the collapsed room? The Room marked F not the hallway above it. What time of the day is it?

Perception Check inside room F: 1d20 + 0 ⇒ (4) + 0 = 4

The time of day was stated previously, but for those that missed it: Ceilings within the Plague House are generally 10 feet high and all rooms are dark, though those areas with exterior windows currently have dim light during the day due to the overcast weather conditions, even though it's approaching noon.

As Rohan peered inside, thanks to his sunrod, he could make out that most of this wooden loft was still standing — this was the only remnant of the building’s destroyed second floor. The roofless chamber was completely exposed to the elements and filled with soot-covered debris, fire-damaged furnishings, and charred wooden beams. A large, soot-covered brass statue of a goddess with a longsword in one hand and a kite shield in the other stood precariously on the northern edge of the platform above a rickety flight of stairs.

Rohan looked back to the others and called out to them loud enough for them to hear but not trying to be overly loud to cause for extreme notice.

"This room appears to be clear, and tons of debris. There is a brass statue of a goddess with a longsword and a kite shield in the corner next to some steps. I think this looks like a good place to start."

Rohan set the Sunrod down as he attempted to climb into the room.

climb: 1d20 + 0 ⇒ (11) + 0 = 11

Rohan looked back to the others and called out to them loud enough for them to hear but not trying to be overly loud to cause for extreme notice.

"This room appears to be clear, and tons of debris. There is a brass statue of a goddess with a longsword and a kite shield in the corner next to some steps. I think this looks like a good place to start."

Rohan set the Sunrod down as he attempted to climb into the room.

[dice=climb]1d20+0

There's no need to climb down into the room. The room contains a portion of what's left of the temple's second floor that fell there as a result of the fire (the rest of which has been burned away). All you have to do is just walk right on in.

Nyym moves up with Rohan, allowing his eyes to easily adjust to the darker areas of the room..

Watch ur step. We must be careful of weak spots in the floor.
Nyym spoke quietly to the others so that his voice did not carry to far.

"Alright, then he would move right in"

Rohan takes it slow because we as a whole don't know what is going on in the rooms beyond but Rohan does take a moment to scan over the statue in the room as he approached it slowly. First was to identify the religion that is related to this goddess.

religion: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (5) + 3 = 8

No matter how hard he wanted to he just couldn't put his finger on the goddess and what religion that she came from, however that didn't slow him down. He moved over towards the door in the room and scanned it without touch it checking for traps or other things.

perception: 1d20 + 0 ⇒ (20) + 0 = 20

Of course at this point in time, if there was anything within his skill level he most surely would of saw it. However even with his skills there maybe another that would be more skilled. Unknowing of everyones skill set he turned and asked quietly.

"Does anyone have ways to inspect for traps, I don't trust my skills when it comes to finding things that could kill me."

Rohan whispered to the ones behind him within the room. Of course Nyym was the only one to enter the room thus far but surely Liesel was not far behind.

Nyym moves up beside Rohan Ronan and assists in searching for traps..

aid another: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (12) + 2 = 14

"Combined Effort, 22 search for traps"

Liesel-Marie follows them through the opening cautiously, looking back over her shoulder to see if she could spot a watcher, quite paranoid at this point.

Perception: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (19) + 2 = 21

She looks at the statue and its precarious perch. Does it look like it could fall with a slight touch? Like it was placed there to drop on the stairs? Or accidentally ended up in that position?

Knowing things is not really her specialty, but she takes a moment to consider the identity of the statue.

Knowledge (religion) untrained: 1d20 ⇒ 8

Between the efforts of Nyym and Rohan, no traps were found.

Once the tentative Erutaki entered the ruined structure, like her tall companion, her eye was drawn to the brass statue of Iomedae. Once she was sure that the object wouldn't be a danger to her or the members of her team, Liesel-Marie resumed her search for danger.

Shuriken throw attack roll: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (2) + 3 = 5
Shuriken damage: 1d2 + 3 ⇒ (2) + 3 = 5

A loud metallic thunk shattered the stillness as a long spike impacted into the wood near the Erutaki's feet.

Standing on the landing just above the statue was a dark-skinned human female dressed in form-fitting leathers, with red hair worn in tight braids that fell past her shoulders. One arm was extended forward from the act of throwing, while her other hand held a metal cylinder that ended in a jagged crystal blade.

End of the surprise round. Declare your actions for round 1. The railing does give her cover (+4 to her AC).

Combat Music: Kittie - Run Like Hell (Pink Floyd cover)

Liesel-Marie: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (20) + 2 = 22
Nyym: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (9) + 6 = 15
Rohan: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (5) + 4 = 9
Antagonist: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (12) + 4 = 16

Reacting to the sudden attack from above. Nyym wasted no time in forming is elemental jutsu into the form of his kinetic kunai and returning the attack of the redheaded woman above.

attack: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (15) + 5 = 20

damage: 1d4 ⇒ 3
Nyym also starts moving toward the stairs to close the distance so as to take away her height advantage.

Liesel-Marie calls on internal forces that get her blood boiling and she enters the stage known as bloodrage. I really don't know where we are in the map. She moves across the floor, cold, calculating fury in her eye, toward the red-headed assassin.

"'tis n' way fer a lady t' make 'erself known, lassie!"

With the different levels and debris making what I assume is difficult terrain, I am assuming there is no charge option. She will use her 40' base speed to get as close as possible for a future attack. If she can block the other woman's next movement or force her to provoke an AoO by moving, she will. She will avoid provoking any herself, if she can.

After posting, I found the clarification I needed in the discussion thread. Thanks.

Rohan snaps his attention to the attack from above, and acknowledges that we are now in danger. He draws forth the energy within him and returns fire, it looks like the earth forms up around him and draws his hands in a swirling formation and ejecting his hands momentum forward and releasing a bolt that forms into a long spike made of stone, as the bolt travels a short distance upwards and splits into 10 spear shaped stones as a rain of stone spears collide.

Onslaught Blast: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (12) + 6 = 18

Damage: 1d6 + 3 ⇒ (2) + 3 = 5

He then takes a step behind Nyym and gets up onto the steps with his awesome 5 foot movement, not to provoke any further attacks should there be invisible foes near.

As of the end of the surprise round, Liesel-Marie is standing directly in front of the statue of Iomedae, while Nyym and Rohan are the bottom of the stairs conducting their search.

Liesel-Marie's muscles expanded as the flame within surged throughout her being. Eyes blazing as they locked onto her enemy, the Erutaki made to move toward the foolish woman when her inner voice brought Liesel-Marie up short. Patience, foolish girl. Your foe will come to you.

She didn't have long to wait.

Above Team Ruby on the landing, the woman's lips curled into an evil sneer as she hopped up onto the railing, then dropped down, landing in a three-point stance just in front of the statue, her movement forcing the Erutaki to abandon her spot by sidestepping to her left. As the woman stood up, she brought the exotic-looking weapon she wielded before her and lunged toward Liesel-Marie.

Move action: Dropped 13 feet, displacing Liesel-Marie to the next open space; I'm treating this as if she had moved 10 feet, so the movement provokes an AoO from Liesel-Marie, who is also able to take her regular attack as well. This also means that the woman has her back to the stairway, the railing on her left, and the statue on her right, making it hard for anyone else to achieve a flank on her.

Crystal Blade: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (2) + 3 = 5
Crystal Blade damage: 1d6 + 3 ⇒ (2) + 3 = 5

And even as she rose from her landing to attack, Nyym and Rohan's attention were drawn to a second assailant that had popped up after having used the distraction caused by his partner's appearance to move down the stairway unnoticed to attack the half-drow.

Crystal Blade: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (17) + 3 = 20
Crystal Blade damage: 1d6 + 3 ⇒ (6) + 3 = 9

Nyym received a gash across his forearm from the new attacker. The wound immediately began to swell and turn red as severe pain started shooting throughout the extremity.

Make a Fortitude save, as he has just been poisoned. Nyym is also at the Wounded threshold, putting him at a –2 penalty on all attack rolls, saving throws, skill checks, and ability checks he makes, as well as to AC until he receives healing to put him into the next best threshold. And yes, the -2 does apply to the Fort save he's about to make and to his attack roll after the fact, since the wound he receives takes place before Nyym's actual attack roll, though he does still manage to hit the woman in spite of the penalty.

Though caught unaware by the second attacker and his eyesight blurring from the pain, Nyym somehow found the strength of mind to focus his ki to form a kunai comprised of pure electrical energy. Trusting his instincts, the half-drow hurled the chirping mass of energy at the now hazy form of Liesel-Marie's attacker and was rewarded with a grunt for his effort as it struck solidly on her left arm, where the weapon left a visible scorch mark before dissipating in a flash of light. The air hung heavy with the scent of charred flesh and ozone.

Rohan brought up his hands as motes of earth and stone collected within them to form a bow that he immediately fired, unleashing an onslaught at the female attacker, pelting her with a barrage of blasts that left the woman hurt and disoriented.

This post does not take into account LM's AoO or her actual attack rolls. Once those are done, I'll update this post accordingly an we'll move into Round 2.

fort save: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (9) + 2 = 11

Gonna take roll on trip 7

trip 7: 3d10 ⇒ (9, 3, 9) = 21

fort save: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (2) + 2 = 4

trip7: 3d10 ⇒ (4, 9, 1) = 14

I don't know when the next time LM will post, but to speed things along, I'll bot her for this round.

Liesel-Marie greatxe Attack of Opportunity: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (18) + 7 = 25
Greataxe Damage: 1d12 + 7 ⇒ (6) + 7 = 13
Liesel-Marie greataxe attack: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (5) + 7 = 12
Greataxe Damage: 1d12 + 7 ⇒ (9) + 7 = 16

As the red-haired woman dropped rapidly to the floor, to the hardened eyes of the Erutaki warrior, she may as well have been falling in slow-motion. With preternatural speed born of her raging blood, Liesel-Marie lashed out, her heavy bearded axe feeling as light as a dagger in her hands as she struck the woman first with a sideways slice that went half the length of the blade to open up a horrible wound across the stomach that sent blood flying everywhere before shifting both her grip and stance to bring the weapon back with a quick followup cut in a high upwards diagonal slash, catching her foe across the left side of the neck. Liesel-Marie watched with chilling detachment as the woman landed, stood up, then attempt an awkward stab at her with the crystal blade before collapsing in front of the statue of Iomedae from the catastrophic damage that she had suffered.

Yeah, that description was a bit more graphic than normal, but considering the 29 points of damage LM dished out, I don't think I honestly did it enough justice.

Nyym's pulse began to race as the poison from the attacker's blade took hold in his system and the swollen area around the wound of the half-drow began to burn.

Nyym takes 1 point of Dex damage, reducing his Dex to 17 (for the moment) and dropping both his Reflex and AC by 1.

End of Round 1. Declare your actions for Round 2.
Combat Music: Kittie - Run Like Hell (Pink Floyd cover)

Liesel-Marie: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (20) + 2 = 22
Nyym: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (9) + 6 = 15
Rohan: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (5) + 4 = 9
Antagonist 2: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (12) + 4 = 16

Nyym grits through the pain of the poison to return the attack of the new foe. Changing to his kinetic Katana for damage..

attack: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (8) + 4 = 12 -2 from being wounded makes my attack roll a 10

damage: 1d8 + 1 ⇒ (7) + 1 = 8

fort save: 1d20 ⇒ 20

Rohan looked surprised at the extremely fast reaction time, delivering two blows almost before the lady even had a chance to hit the floor. It was like she was one with her blade. He shook his head and looked back to the target that recently made its appearance and plans his next form of attack.

Rohan did something semantic like was doing ninjitsu with his hands. Forming yet another ball of stone within the air and it launched at the other attacker, the ball seemed to get larger and larger before it impacted, getting up to the size of a small boulder.

Attack: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (19) + 6 = 25
Dmg: 1d6 + 3 ⇒ (1) + 3 = 4

Surprisingly he would practically hit his target with surprised accuracy weather it be the lady or the floor it looked like what he aimed at was what he wanted to hit. "He was aiming at the enemy on the stairs"

"I really need to find a better form to take on these attacks, Ahh the bow I carry, it would suit me well to manafest it in a similar fashion to strike down my foes."

It dawns on Rohan that creating arrows from the bow would be much more precise and more effective as he increases his attacks.

Thank you for the bot. And the epic description. Is the second assailant within reach or within a move action?

Attack: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (12) + 7 = 19
Damage: 1d12 + 7 ⇒ (4) + 7 = 11

The lady warrior does not miss a beat, flowing through the devastating hits on the first attacker and delivering another whistling axe blow at the second.

By stepping into the space where the first assailant lies dead, LM can attack the second attacker. But the combination of height difference and the railing will give cover with regard to her attack just as Rohan has to deal with the issue of soft cover provided by Nyym. Of course, I have a most dynamic solution to LM's problem...

The cold detached eyes of the Erutaki were drawn to the fight taking place on the staircase between the Nyym and the second attacker. Without a moments hesitation, Liesel-Marie adjusted the grip on her greataxe and performed an overhand throw that sent the weapon tumbling through the air end over end at the foe. The axe head bit deep into the top of the railing, with the edge of blade merely a scant inch from the target.

The man, eyes wide and his heart pounding hard, understood just how perilously close to death he'd come. He continued to attack the half-drow before him.

Crystal Blade attack: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (6) + 3 = 9
Crystal Blade damage: 1d6 + 2 ⇒ (1) + 2 = 3

However, the fear of his near-death experience caused his trembling hand to fall short of his target.

Emboldened by the turn of events, Nyym took advantage of the human's faltering attack, feigning a high strike by poking at the man's chest, only to pull the crackling weapon back and instead slash right to left across the thighs in an explosion of light and fire.

Sensing it was in his best interest to leave with what little life he had left, the man tried to back away from the half-drow only to be slammed by a 'boulder' from Rohan that sent him spinning into the wall, where he crumpled into a heap.

End of Round 2 and combat. Nyym has flushed the poison from his body, but will suffer the Dex damage until he rests for the night. Everyone gets 100 XP. Assuming a quick search of the bodies, the team is able to recover the following items:

* 2 glass vials that can be identified as potions of cure light wounds,
* 2 vials of antitoxin,
* 2 smoke pellets,
* 10 shuriken (1d2/+1 damage on crit),
* 2 kunai (1d4 damage/+2 damage on crit),
* 2 suits of leather armor,
* 2 sets of thieves' tools,
* 2 golden-yellow crystals that can be identified as beryl, worth 50 gp each, and
* 8 gp

At the immediate moment Rohan showed no interest in the loot as he moved up past Nyym and to the top of the steps, look right and left and down the hall leading back towards the door. He was making sure that all enemies were taken care off and we were not going to be caught off guard. Looking to see if the door was open or closed although not approaching it, just insuring that the group was not surprised by another encounter. Once the area was secured he will turned back to the group.

"Nyym, Liesel, are you both alright? I wanted to insure our safety while we recover the loot. Apparently our arrival was expected, at the very least they know we are here. We need to be careful from here forward. Should we establish an order for who goes first and last, the area around here is very narrow at the moment.

Nyym takes a moment to steady himself and look down at the bodies. Hearing Rohan from above Nyym checks his wound before replying.

I will be ok. But those weapons were poisoned. I felt a burning in the wounded area when I was struck. Fortunately I was able to push through it.

Nyym kneels down to give closer inspection to the assailants to see if there are any destinguishing marks. Looking for hints of where they are from and checks them for any evidance of who They might be working for as well..

perception: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (19) + 2 = 21

Though this falls more under the purview of a Society recall knowledge check than a Perception check, I'll go ahead and give it to you: they lack the shaved heads and tattoos that were sported by the Shoanti Nyym saw with Rishka last night, but their manner of dress clearly reveals that these two are also from Freedom Town. The weapons they carry prove to be even more incriminating, however, for the kunai and shuriken mark them as enforcers for the Sharpes Gang that runs the criminal haven.

At the immediate moment Rohan showed no interest in the loot as he moved up past Nyym and to the top of the steps, look right and left and down the hall leading back towards the door. He was making sure that all enemies were taken care off and we were not going to be caught off guard. Looking to see if the door was open or closed although not approaching it, just insuring that the group was not surprised by another encounter. Once the area was secured he will turned back to the group.

The door is open just a bit.

Rohan remains at the hall entrance until the group was ready to move forward to keep guard. Not sure if this was the only way in or not but it was best to keep aware of any entrance. So Rohan stood his ground to ensure that we were not caught off guard this time. Also considering Rohan took no damage it was best that he stand in the front for the time being, unless someone else takes the lead, Cough Cough...

Liesel-Marie takes a moment to gather herself and steady her breathing (fatigued) while the men check the approach and the attackers. She gathers up what the other two don't want right now and stows the items in her backpack. (Note to self: Make sure to purchase backpack. :P) Shouldering it once more, she checks the quiver (Ditto) of javelins, decides to have one ready and holds it loosely in her right hand while she supports the massive axe in her left.

"I'm uninjured. I'm no good searching for traps, but I think I should be in the lead, Rohan. You can shoot over me, anyway."