Dragon Age: West Hill Woes (Inactive)

Game Master stardust

May as well try out for some cunning, using the Historical Lore focus as well

Cunning 3d6 + 4 ⇒ (5, 3, 2) + 4 = 14; Rylan tries to recall if there was anything that might be of help in this mystery of these greenskins.

"You are most generous, Arl- for myself, apart from whatever expenses might turn up, the friendly regards between you and yours and the Circle is most valued", Rylan adds in as an afterthought, more for his instructions by elders within the Circle in aiding the Arl than any of own current non-existent personal attachment to the local royalty.

Lore for Rylan: Some of the oldest book on magic speak of the creatures summoned from chaos. These creatures are green-skinned, and seek the dark places of the earth. Few mages know their true origins, for it is rumored that they were created by the great magi who attempted to sit in Heaven's throne. The Goblynkinde, they are called.

Arl Grannern nods to the mage.

"The assistance of the Circle will always be valued."

Arl Grannern:

"You may leave this afternoon, if you wish, or rest here in the mansion and depart in the morning. It is the least I can offer for your aid."

Duncan speaks slowly.

"I must be off, Arl Grannern. I wish you and your family the best intentions. As for the rest of you, good luck in whatever journeys tomorrow brings. I make for the west, on the trail of a small darkspawn tide that we are slowly vanquishing. I hope that you will meet with little incident, but the times, as it is said often in Denerim, are changing. Rogues grow bolder, and these green-skinned creatures seem dangerous enough."

[b]"I am rear'n ', redy ta go! Tha sooner tha better!"[b]

"Indeed, I'm prepared to be on our way. Rylan, you have any further... business for the Circle?"

"Indeed, I'm prepared to be on our way. Rylan, you have any further... business for the Circle?"

"Seeing to the Arl's son and his safety is the current business I'm doing on behalf of the Circle, so I've no objections to being on our way," the Mage smiles to Ser Calder and Legnar, "and we may as well make our aquaintance with Lord Nicolas soon enough".

Giving a pause, Rylan then turns to address Ser Duncan, "And I wish you well in your travels likewise, Ser Duncan- and if you do happen to have a chance, you are always welcome to stop by the Circle Tower- I'm certain that the Elders of the Tower would be interested in hearing about this latest incursion by Darkspawn that your men have seen to- as well as news of these Greenskins that you've mentioned to us"

Duncan nods slowly. "Once we joing the Grey Wardens, we are know only as Grey Warden or Warden. 'Ser' is a title I abandoned long ago." He continues towards the door.

Arl Grannern gestures to a servant and a splendid tray of fruits and sweetbreads is brought to the dining table. As well as a large pitcher of wine and four glasses.

"Please help yourself to some refreshment."

While you are waiting, a young man enters, wearing a dark blue jerkin. He has a sword at his side, but to the militarily trained it is obviously attached wrong. Over his shoulders is a hastily thrown halfcape and a few saddlebags.

"Well, father. I guess I'm ready now; I don't see why I really have to go. I want to stay here and help with the trade matter."

"Nicholas, you know you don't deal well in trade matters... yet. I'm sure you'll make a good arl someday, but for now you're wanted in the capital. The king wants to see you."

"Why?" The whining tone is obviously the same one you heard from the window before.

Arl Grannern sighs.

"I do not ask the king 'Why?'. It is impertinent."

Arl Grannern takes a heavy drink of wine before turning to the three of you.

"Nicholas, this is to be your escort. They will see you safely arrive in Denerim."

"I don't need an escort. I'll go myself if I have to go."

Arl Grannern flushes with anger.

"You will have an escort. And since I cannot send my own guards with you, you will have these!"

Nicholas sourly frowns. "Fine. If I have to. But I won't like it."

Arl Grannern puts a strawberry in his mouth as his ire cools.

"Maybe that king can knock some sense into you, and get you to respect your elders for a change."

Surprisingly, Nicholas says nothing. After a while he turns to you, "Are we to go now, then?"

"If that is your wish, milord Nicholas," replies Rylan, giving another bow to the young lord. "We are to be your escorts to the Capital by the way. I am Rylan of the Circle, and I bid you greetings from the Tower, and my companions,", the mage in turn motions towards both Ser Calder and Legnar.

Will be out on break until the next week; may try to check in to this thread intermittently, depending on internet availability- thought I'd let everyone know; everyone feel free to npc Rylan as see fit

"Good ta metcha! Get yer things ready 'n we be off. Sooner tha better!"

That's fine. If you can check in once every two days or so, it would be great. I always knew this game would be a little slower than the hectic postings of some of the other games you all had been in. I'm hoping that will make it last longer.

Going to speed things up a bit here. Let me know if you want to do anything in the interim, like buy further supplies or whatever.

You are well into the second day of travel towards Denerim. Ser Nicholas insisted on stopping for the night at an expensive inn on the highway. His nasal whining voice is likely getting on everyone's nerves by now, and the road is surprisingly dusty for this time of year. It does not make matters any better.

Ser Nicholas insists on stopping to enjoy a small waterfall and trickling stream near the road.

"Its too hot and dry to just keep moving. I want to at least be comfortable if I have to travel with you."

Calder looks more than a little tempted to just throw the boy in, but instead simply nods.
"Very well, but we shouldn't be too long. There's yet to be a king that enjoys being kept waiting."

Legnar look over at Ser Celder and sighs, and then looks back over to Ser Nicholas.

"No ...Lad, we just stopped no less than ah hour ago. We cannot stop every time you want. Stop be'n a lass n lets move!"

Nicholas either has not heard you, or is exceptionally good at pretending that he hasn't. He proceeds to dismount and stretch his legs in the cool glade.

Can I get everyone to make a Perception (Hearing) or Perception (Seeing) test, your choice.

Perception (Seeing): 3d6 + 1 ⇒ (5, 3, 1) + 1 = 10

Hearing...

Perception 3d6 + 2 ⇒ (6, 4, 2) + 2 = 14

Rylan's Perception roll (Seeing)

3d6 + 1 ⇒ (1, 2, 5) + 1 = 9

Before anyone can say anything further, three arrows suddenly slice through the air, imbedding themselves in a tree near the waterfall. You finally look around to see three men dressed in rugged leather armor holding armed short bows on you.

"Before you head off again, we'll relieve you of any dead weight you'll be carrying. Silver, gold, and the like. Anything valuable."

Communication 3d6 + 2 ⇒ (2, 6, 4) + 2 = 14

"I think it best if'n you fella's leave before you do somf'n regrettable." Legnar says as he pulls out his crossbow and aims at the one who spoke.

Ser Calder moves to ready his shield, stepping between the archers and Ser Nicholas.

"All we got are short tempers and steel, friend. Not worth yer time."

"Aye and fine steel by the looks of it. Good horses too."

The center bandit jerks his head towards the three of you, apparently as a symbol to begin combat.

Roll For Initiative
Bandits 3d6 + 2 ⇒ (3, 5, 5) + 2 = 15
Rylan of the Circle 3d6 + 2 ⇒ (5, 2, 3) + 2 = 12
Legnar Nevin 3d6 + 2 ⇒ (1, 6, 5) + 2 = 14
Ser Calder 3d6 + 2 ⇒ (3, 4, 1) + 2 = 10
Nicholas 3d6 + 2 ⇒ (3, 3, 1) + 2 = 9

Legnar, I forgot to let your dog roll a perception check earlier. Will try to remember in the future. Also, do you want him to roll initiative separately, or act when you do?

Not sure how directing the dog works, Legnar will most likely have it protect Nicholas. It's only a hunting dog. Sense you already rolled initiative, We can just have the dog go on my turn

"Nicholas! Get to some cover! Stunt guard Nicholas!"

Legnar shoots at the Bandit he aimed at, hoping to drop the leader and lower their morale.
Ranged: Crossbow 3d6 + 4 ⇒ (6, 1, 1) + 4 = 12 |Damage2d6 + 3 ⇒ (1, 3) + 3 = 7 | Range/Reload 30|60/Major {+2 aim action; Bolts(x19)

Legnar uses his stunt to rapid reload.

Ser Calder hefts his shield and advances on the bandits, heavy sword in hand.
Longsword: 3d6 + 2 ⇒ (6, 6, 6) + 2 = 202d6 + 2 ⇒ (4, 1) + 2 = 7

He swings in a wide arc, attempting to slice into a second bandit, keeping his shield high and his legs braced.
Using Dual Strike for 4 stunt points- 3d6 + 2 ⇒ (4, 4, 4) + 2 = 142d6 + 2 ⇒ (3, 2) + 2 = 7 and Defensive Stance for the remaining 2 to get a +2 Defense.

I was hoping Rylan would have shown back up by now.

Rylan draws his wand and fires a bolt of energy at the leader bandit.

3d6 + 4 ⇒ (6, 5, 1) + 4 = 16

The bandits take aim with their short bows, releasing arrows towards the three that remained.

Bandit 1: 3d6 + 2 ⇒ (3, 6, 5) + 2 = 16 towards Ser Calder for 1d6 + 2 ⇒ (2) + 2 = 4
Bandit 2: 3d6 + 2 ⇒ (2, 6, 5) + 2 = 15 towards Legnar for 1d6 + 2 ⇒ (4) + 2 = 6
Bandit 3: 3d6 + 2 ⇒ (3, 1, 4) + 2 = 10 towards Rylan for 1d6 + 2 ⇒ (4) + 2 = 6

Legnar is hit for 2 points of damage, but responds with his own crossbow bolt, which hits Bandit 1 for 4 points of damage.

Rylan nimbly dodges the arrow directed toward him, turning towards the leader bandit with his wand in hand and releasing an arcane lance for 5 points of damage.

Calder is hit by an arrow, but it sticks in his armor, refusing to penetrate any further. He advances and swings twice on the leader, influcing another 8 points of damage on bandit 1, who falls to the ground dying.

The remaining two bandits drop their bows and draw short swords instead.

With a yelp, Ser Nicholas runs into the forest, Stunt barking at his heels.

Round 2

Legnar aims and shoots at one of the bandits.

Ranged: Crossbow 3d6 + 4 ⇒ (4, 1, 4) + 4 = 13 |Damage2d6 + 3 ⇒ (1, 2) + 3 = 6 | Range/Reload 30|60/Major {+2 aim action; Bolts(x18)

Ser Calder grunts in frustration as the party's charge up and runs on them. He sizes up his nearest foe Minor Action- Aim for +1 on my attack roll and takes a swing when an opening presents itself.

Longsword: 3d6 + 3 ⇒ (6, 6, 3) + 3 = 182d6 + 2 ⇒ (4, 1) + 2 = 7

And deals him a mighty blow Spending 2 stunt points for mighty blow and dealing +1d6 damage.

1d6 ⇒ 2

Legnar aims and shoots at one of the bandits.

Ranged: Crossbow 3d6+4 |Damage2d6+3 | Range/Reload 30|60/Major {+2 aim action; Bolts(x18)

Regnar, you rolled doubles on that, 4 stunt points. :)

Rylan seems surprised to see how effective his arcane lance is against the bandits, he coils his arm and fires from the wand again.

3d6 + 4 ⇒ (2, 2, 6) + 4 = 14 for 1d6 + 6 ⇒ (3) + 6 = 9

Stunts: Pierce armor and dual strike

Regnar, you rolled doubles on that, 4 stunt points. :)

Legnar seizes the Initiative!

Next round... (round Three)
Legnar ready's his Ancient Dwarven Axe (and swaps out his bow as part of this actions) and his Woodsman's Maul.
and then Charges at the bandit that Ser Calder is not fighting!

Melee: Ancient Dwarven Axe 3d6 + 6 ⇒ (5, 4, 5) + 6 = 20 |Damage2d6 + 4 ⇒ (6, 4) + 4 = 14 {+1 Charge, +1 Dual Weapon Style (Novice) Magical!?

Stunts:
If the Bandit survives:
Legnar Grabs the collar of the bandit's armor and forces him down, and kicks his sword away opposite of the other bandit. Legnar raise's his axe to the bandit's face. "Regretful yet?" Legnar does not use his final stunt point.

If the bandit Dies:

Legnar skirmishes over to the last bandit, flanking him with Ser Calder. Not sure how many Stunts that would be.... If he has enough stunt points left he then knocks the bandit down and if possible disarms him in the same manner as above. Legnar raise's his axe to the bandit's face. "Regretful yet?"

If pulling two weapons is not a part of a ready action, then he does not pull the maul and -1 to his attack

Finishing up Round 2

Bandit 2 swings at Calder with his shortsword. 3d6 + 4 ⇒ (1, 1, 5) + 4 = 11 for 1d6 + 4 ⇒ (2) + 4 = 6
Bandit 3 swings at Calder with his shortsword. 3d6 + 4 ⇒ (2, 2, 6) + 4 = 14 for 1d6 + 4 ⇒ (2) + 4 = 6+1d6 ⇒ 3
Stunts: Mighty Blow, Lightning Attack, Skirmish, Skirmish
Bandit 3 attacks Calder again 3d6 + 4 ⇒ (1, 6, 3) + 4 = 14 for 1d6 + 4 ⇒ (2) + 4 = 6 before moving away from the combat.

Legnar's crossbow bolt slams into bandit 3, inflicting 3 points of damage.

Rylan's arcane lance splits into two, striking both remaining bandits. Bandit 2 takes 8 points of damage. Bandit 3 takes 6 points of damage.

Calder is struck for 5 points of damage, and then again for 2 points, before the bandit moves nimbly out of reach of his sword. Calder turns his sword on bandit 2, inflicting 6 points of damage.

Round 3

Calder tries to run through bandit 2.
Longsword: 3d6 + 2 ⇒ (5, 2, 5) + 2 = 142d6 + 2 ⇒ (6, 4) + 2 = 12
I don't have my rulebook in front of me, but I want to use Defensive Stance for 2 points and pierce armor if I have enough points for it.

Calder tries to run through bandit 2.

Longsword: 3d6+2;2d6+2
I don't have my rulebook in front of me, but I want to use Defensive Stance for 2 points and pierce armor if I have enough points for it.

Yep. Pierce armor is 2 points.

Great. And if the last bandit is still standing after Rylan and Legnar have gone I'll use the remaining point to skirmish after him.

Legnar, as your axe cleaves through the air, you feel it take on a life of its own, a flash of racial memory infiltrates your mind. Whenever your attack with the axe hits and generates stunt points, you gain an additional 2 stunt points.

Legnar's charge overwhelms bandit 3, as the axe nearly cleaves through his neck. The bandit falls lifeless to the ground. Within seconds, Legnar has again moved, pushing bandit 2 to the ground. You can skirmish 5 feet for 1 stunt point. Its the only stunt you can perform several times in a turn.

The bandit drops his weapon, shouting "I yield!"

"Well Ser Calder? What shall we do wit this brigand?"

Back, took a bit longer than I expected though- my apologies for that. Also wanted to thank you Stardust for handling Rylan while I was away.

Rylan looks over the carnage and lowers his wand slightly. "Thank the Maker it's over", the Mage mutters under his breath. After making sure the remaining bandit poses no danger- thanks to Legnar, Rylan glances over at Ser Calder, "looks like we're safe for now".

A charge of banditry is pretty much a death sentence right? Are there any settlements on the way to Denerim?
Ser Calder shrugs.
"We either kill him or let him go. We have our hands full with the young Ser, a prisoner will just make things worse."

He addresses the bandit.
"Listen. I catch you at this again, you're a dead man. You tell me a few things, swear on Andraste's name you'll go to the Chantry and find proper work and we'll let you live. Was it just you three on your own or you part of a bigger group?"

The bandit is grateful for his freedom and hastily agrees to convert.

"Yes, there are more. In these woods. But not many of us now. The woods are dangerous."

"Great. Go on, get outta here."

When the bandit gets a move on, Ser Calder checks the horses quickly and ties their reins to a tree.
"Alright, let's find Ser Nicholas before he gets it in his fool head to try for Denerim without us or gets caught by bandits."

Legnar removes the axe from the bandit's throat.

"Go on, git outta 'ere! Lest I change my mind..."

When the bandit is out of earshot, Legnar frowns as he looks down at one of the dead bandits. "Rather be kill'n darkspawn than these children... I better get the Lad, Stunt might not be used to you yet... See if these lads 'ere 'ave anything worth take'n. They don't need'em anymore...."

The bandits have leather armor, that have been thouroughly slashed and singed by now, 2 longbows and 16 arrows, 2 shortswords, 2 daggers, and 2d6 ⇒ (3, 1) = 4 silver pieces.

As you go to look for Ser Nicholas, you realize he ran further into the forest than you intended him to. Stunt's barking has turned to a frantic baying, so at least he is easy to track.

Rylan glances over at the bandit's/bandits' stuff as he tries his best to place the dead bandit/s in a respectful position, closing any wide opened unseeing eyes whilst muttering a small prayer to the Maker under his breath.

"They didn't seem to have much on them though they were better armed than most, I'd dare say".

Upon hearing Legnar's hound making a ruckus, the Mage nods to Ser Calder and Legnar, "We should be able to catch up with them, I think".

Horses secured, Ser Calder draws his sword once more and strides into the woods.
"Aye, best we find him quick. Can't say I'm eager to search this forest at night."

"Stupid Frigg'n coward... I said get ta cover, not run like a spook'd horse!" Legnar says as he makes his way towards the barking. He keeps his axe out, just in case...

As you make your way further into the forest, you reach a shadowy clearing that doesn't feel particularly inviting. Roll perception checks. Also, some of you are still wounded, you might want to get Rylan to heal you.

Rylan's Perception 3d6 + 1 ⇒ (6, 5, 6) + 1 = 18
Ser Calder's Perception 3d6 + 1 ⇒ (5, 2, 6) + 1 = 14
Legnar's Perception 3d6 + 2 ⇒ (4, 1, 6) + 2 = 13

Also, some of you are still wounded, you might want to get Rylan to heal you.

Knew I was forgetting something ;)

As the party reaches the shadowy clearing, Rylan gets this feeling in the back of his mind that he was forgetting something important. A quick glance at his companions (and their various wounds) quickly reminds him of what the something important was.

"Maker's breath, I nearly forgot- Ser Calder, Legnar, you both were wounded in the fight; if you're willing, I can heal those wounds"

The mage steps towards his companions, but the chance sight of a web strand nearby has Rylan stopping in midstep to look up at the source of that webstand- and the webbed human shape up within the tree.

His face turning a bit ashen with horror, Rylan croaks out, "The trees- spiders are about!" as he points upward at what he sees.

3d6 + 1 ⇒ (6, 4, 1) + 1 = 12 for some more perception, if needed

I forgot about the breather mechanic. Everyone heals 5 + Constitution + 1 wounds

"Dear Maker... we 'ave ta get ta stunt 'n make sure tha lad is safe..." Legnar starts to beet feet to where his barking dog is.

stardust wrote:

Also, some of you are still wounded, you might want to get Rylan to heal you.

Knew I was forgetting something ;)

As the party reaches the shadowy clearing, Rylan gets this feeling in the back of his mind that he was forgetting something important. A quick glance at his companions (and their various wounds) quickly reminds him of what the something important was.

"Maker's breath, I nearly forgot- Ser Calder, Legnar, you both were wounded in the fight; if you're willing, I can heal those wounds"

The mage steps towards his companions, but the chance sight of a web strand nearby has Rylan stopping in midstep to look up at the source of that webstand- and the webbed human shape up within the tree.

His face turning a bit ashen with horror, Rylan croaks out, "The trees- spiders are about!" as he points upward at what he sees.

3d6+1 for some more perception, if needed

Ser Calder responds a bit too quickly.

On reaching the tree and mention of spiders, Ser Calder looks up into the branches, fumbling for his bow and seeking out any large spiders about.
Perception: 3d6 + 1 ⇒ (2, 6, 5) + 1 = 14

You hear a loud hissing and skittering noise above you, but fortunately you are prepared for any enemies thanks to Rylan's warning.

Roll For Initiative
??? 3d6 + 4 ⇒ (4, 6, 1) + 4 = 15
Ser Calder 3d6 + 2 ⇒ (6, 6, 2) + 2 = 16
Legnar 3d6 + 2 ⇒ (3, 4, 1) + 2 = 10
Rylan 3d6 + 2 ⇒ (4, 4, 3) + 2 = 13

Ser Calder takes a steadying breath, sighting the most spidery shape in the canopy and lets fly with an arrow.
Minor action- aim and fire w/ shortbow.
Shortbow: 3d6 + 3 ⇒ (2, 4, 4) + 3 = 132d6 + 2 ⇒ (5, 1) + 2 = 8