Tide Of Twilight (Inactive)

Game Master Rickmeister

Ready, sorry for the delay, been getting slammed at work - will post more detailed later today.

No worries, if you post it in the discussion tab ;)
Every one else good to go? Liked my personal one-on-one mini?
PS: Trick question, since you'd better answer in the discussion tab :-p

Wispil is a bustling town built on a small scale—although humans and elves walk the streets, most buildings are built to accommodate the gnomes who live and work in Wispil. The scent of fresh-cut lumber wafts through the town. Falbin’s home is not difficult to find, especially with Darius's help and personality. It is situated on the south edge of the town, with a large garden spreading out behind it.

Most of the garden is obscured by high growth, but the sound of a violent argument carries into the street. Although it is not yet dark, firelight glimmers from within the garden walls.

Is there a way into the garden from the outside or does it have to be entered via the house?

Horatius looks about the hard working, well ordered lumber town happy to see a place where sentient races and nature operate in a reasonable balance. After sighting the stag on the river bank, finding such a village in the wilderness further reinforces his belief that it's Erastils will that has brought him to this place.

"I have heard of this town. The Treaty of the Wildwood has served both the forest and Taldor well."

As they approach Falbins home his attention is drawn to the garden but soon distracted by the sounds of the argument. A bit concerned for their contact he begins looking for a way into the garden.

Perception to see what is heard of the argument : 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (12) + 1 = 13

Darius is also concerned, and hurries to help Horatius find a quick way into the garden.

As he nears the edge of the growth, he listens hard to overhear what he can as well.

Perception: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (18) + 4 = 22

Bayani looks a little ill-at-ease. "Maybe Falbin and whoever is his guest at the moment would prefer some privacy."

There is a hedge that does not exactly prove very "defensible/defensive(?)". One could run through the front door and the house, or jump/go through the hedge. You cannot however see *over* the hedge.

Darius checks the hedge carefully. He attempts to determine if he can hide himself among the leaves and branches, or at least poke his head partway in. If so, he will try to do so as discreetly as possible, seeking to learn more of the conversation without intruding.

Stealth: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (4) + 6 = 10

Based on the description of "violent argument" I'm going under the assumption Horatius would feel that violence might be imminent.

"You may well be right Bayani, but I would rather the shame of an unneeded interruption than harm come to the man through our inaction."

With that Horatius pushes his way through the hedge.

"Master Falbin, is everything ok?"

Theor strolls through the town happily taking in the sights. Reaching Falbin's home and hearing the argument he clenches his firsts excited at the possibility of a fight. He'll draw his weapon while following Horatius through the hedge, ready for some action.

Unless the boys pushing through the hedge clears a path well enough that her clothes aren't likely to snag, Kumari will prefer the front door.

She is certainly taking action.

Bayani will follow Kumari to the front door, preferring to enter in a civilized manner.

As Theor and Horatius push themselves through the hedge, they find themselves between the main building and what appears to be the backside of a stable.
They can see a tall man in a chain shirt and with two swords on his back standing in between the buildings, (unintentionally) barring your way. He looks at you, and looks at something you cannot see from your position.

Bayani and Kumari enter the (apparantly L-shaped) house through the front door, which is unlocked. You enter a living room, with a sleeping room on your left and an exit to the "back" in front of you. This is where Horatius and Theor would be if they pushed themselves through the hedge.

Map will be up eta in the morning, need access to my pc.
You can describe what you do, I will roll your initiatives later (if the need should arise).

Horatius speaks to the man but loud enough to be heard by whomever is out of sight.

"My apologies for the intrusion but we heard a heated argument and were concerned for those involved." With a meaningful glance towards the mans sheathed weapons he continues "It is good to see that such is not the case. I am Horatius Lartius. My companions and I are here to meet with Master Falbin. Are you there Master Falbin? I believe we had an appointment."

As he speaks Horatius continues forward at a steady pace making his way to a position where he can see the other person in the area and be near to the man with the swords.

Bayani gives the room a quick look over as he and Kumari enter. Perception, taking 10: 10 + 3 = 13

Darius watches as Horatius and Bayani storm through the hedge. He quietly draws his short sword and checks to see if he's been spotted. If he can tell he was seen, he follows the other two.

If it seems like he wasn't noticed, he will again try to shelter unseen in the shadows among the hedge, just close enough to see and hear what's going on.

Perception: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (7) + 4 = 11

Stealth: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (19) + 6 = 25

Assuming it takes longer for us to go around than charge through the hedge, Kumari will try to keep quiet and motion for Bayani to do the same.

She will try to get eyes on the situation out back without betraying her presence.

Stealth: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (2) + 3 = 5

Bayani winces as Kumari knocks over a troll-leg umbrella stand with a clatter.

Stealth: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (20) + 3 = 23

You'd hardly know he was there.

Dex follows behind Theor and Horatius through the hedge and backs himself up against the far edge of the garden, trying to position himself for a reaction to any threat that might emerge. He lets Horatius take the lead with the dialogue and remains silent. He stealthily draws his bow and readies himself to take a shot if necessary.

He tries to blend into the shadows to the extent possible. Stealth: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (10) + 8 = 18

I've added the map to my name, and have made little avatars of yourselves. Please add in the appropriate HP, AC etc to the left side of the pictures *before* posting your next response here.

"You have no business here, child. Go about your way, or I'll make you!"

As the sound of something falling over inside is heard, he draws his weapons and looks at you sternly.

"You a thief, with a buddy skulking inside? Be gone, piece of filth!"

You can see two others in the garden, drawin their weapons. There are three obvious fires now, in the middle of the garden, and they are spreading. No sign of Falbin, visual or auditory.

Anything of note inside the home?

For when it is my turn in initiative order ...

Seeing the impending/unfolding conflict Dex raises his bow and draws an arrow, readying his shot for the thug in the middle of the garden.

"We've got to stop them, they're trying to torch the place - try and leave one for questioning."

The familiar feel of the bristled feathers in the fletching of the arrow immediately calm Dex, instinctively his heart rate begins to slow, his breathing becomes measured, in time with his shot. He casually twists the nook between his fingers as he times his shot.

Attack w. Composite Longbow: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (3) + 6 = 9
Damage: 1d8 + 2 ⇒ (1) + 2 = 3

But the mix of fire and darkness and the commotion are too distracting.

Nice map

When the mens destructive intent becomes apparent Horatius offers one last chance to avoid bloodshed even as he slides his own blade from its sheath.

"There is no need for you to fall here. Drop your weapons and surrender."

Assuming they don't immediately smarten up then on initiative...

Horatius slides the massive blade free of its sheath with the familiar hiss of steel on leather. Stepping forward he attacks.

Attack : 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (7) + 5 = 12
Damage : 2d6 + 4 ⇒ (2, 2) + 4 = 8

Actions : Move action to draw, 5'step up, attack

Not sure if it opens to the garden, Kumari crosses to the inner door and opens it a crack to peer through.

Nothing special inside the house Bayani. Regular old house, and a lot of dirtied clothes.
As soon as Dex released the arrow, initiative order kicked in, I'm sorry.
Hunter 3 > Kumari > Hunter 1 > Bayani, Dex, Darius, Horatius > Hunter 2 > Theor

Dex releases his arrow, and missed the hunter on the front. He immediately shouts "Attack brothers! Let their blood flow freely!" as he bares his teeth at you.

One of the hunters lets out a battle cry, and moves up around the house. There he encounters Darius, and he prepares for battle as he shouts "Here is another one! It's a trap!"

Kumari opens the door as everything is happening, and sees everyone pull out their weapons.

Another hunter steps up to Horatius just as he delivers his speech, and tries to interfere with his attack. Both his attacks are well-placed, but do little more than cause Horatius' swing to go wide.

Hunter: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (1) + 2 = 3
Hunter: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (8) + 2 = 10

Bayani, Darius, Dex: You're up!

Round 1 Init 16

On his turn, Bayani will draw his rapier (move action) and cast Shield (standard action, +4 to AC, 1 min duration). He will 5-ft step close to the door if he is not already adjacent.

The dance begins, he muses.

With his short sword in hand, Darius steps towards the nearest hunter and attacks.

Attack: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (11) + 3 = 14
Damage: 1d6 + 1 ⇒ (4) + 1 = 5

Darius misses and the gentlemen seems a little angry at you.
I moved you character accordingly.
DEX you're up, and I moved hunter 2 so Theor you may post aswell!

Dex partners with Darius, seeing his first bid to stop the hunter by him fail. He quickly pulls another arrow from his back in a swift, seamless motion and pulls back heavily on his bow, pausing for just a fraction of a second before releasing.

Attack w. Composite Bow: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (7) + 6 = 13
Damage: 1d8 + 2 ⇒ (7) + 2 = 9

It's a miss. Also keep in mind they receive a bonus on their AC because of cover. If you don't mind, simply add this to you attack as a penalty, it makes my life easier :)
A.i. "1d20 +6 -2"

Updated Bayani's HP, AC, and saves on the map. He should also be adjacent to Kumari because of his 5-ft step. He'll be peeking through the door, looking to see if there is a way outside.

Okidoki Bayani. Theor, you're up!
Everyone: I hope it's clear on the map that the red rectangles are doors, and the others are windows in the house.

One of the hunters shouts: "There is an archer at the back, look out!"

Does it look like we could get through the windows easily?

I think above you noted I got an AoO, if so see below, otherwise ignore

AoO: 1d20 + 4 + 2 ⇒ (7) + 4 + 2 = 13
Damage: 1d10 + 4 + 2 ⇒ (7) + 4 + 2 = 13
+2 above is if human

Theor moves up behind Horatius and tries to jab in at the enemy in front of him.

Attack: 1d20 + 4 + 2 ⇒ (10) + 4 + 2 = 16
Damage: 1d10 + 4 + 2 ⇒ (3) + 4 + 2 = 9

If the windows don't look like a way to get out of the building, Bayani will do the following:

Bayani turns after seeing no egress in the room in front of him, and speaks to Kumari in Kelish, surprising her with his command of her language. He is clearly hoping that if one of their attackers overhears them, they will not understand.

"There is more than one inside!"
Window doesn't seem like an easy way out. Door would prove to be easier and quicker.

I rolled hunter 1 already since I don't think Kumari will interfer with him, and to speed up play a bit. Hope you don't mind.

The third hunter takes both his axes and tries to cut Darius across the chest with it.

Both Darius and Horatius take a single swipe to the leg, which they deflect with ease, only to be followed by a slice to the side, their opened-up and obviously weakened side now.

Kumari, you're up. After your post, it's Bayani, Dex, Darius and Horatius' turn.

Kumari runs to the outside door, but doesn't have the time to open it. Crossbow is ready.

Darius winces, grasping the wound in his side. He lunges forward, trying to strike the hunter in front of him with his shortsword.

Attack: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (2) + 3 = 5

In search of help, he tries to twist away from his opponent without subjecting himself to another attack.

Acrobatics to move away w/o AoO: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (8) + 6 = 14

"Dex, step in front of me for a clear shot! I'm not having any luck up close by myself."

Darius retreats 15' straight back towards Dex.

Horatius grits his teeth against the pain of the hunters vicious blow. Focusing on the man before him he channels Erastils wrath against the raider.

Rolling the "hope he's evil" dice

Attack : 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (7) + 5 = 12 + 2 more if Smite worked
Damage : 2d6 + 4 ⇒ (3, 3) + 4 = 10 + 1 more if Smite worked
+2 to AC against him if Smite worked

His strength is behind the blow but his injury slows it enough to allow the hunter to duck aside.

DM, did Theor's attack hit?

Bayani moves to the door, and opens it, so that he and Kumari can move through it. Moving to the square just north of the door. When he looks through the door, he sees one of their foes, and he prepares his rapier to attack, channeling arcane energy into it. Swift action: Arcane pool, enhancing Rapier to +1. (This makes the damage bonus from honing disappear from his weapon. However, Darius and Horatius should still have the +1 to damage for their first attack -- once they land it.)

Edit:

Bayani will also look closely at their foe, trying to identify if he is a human, elf, half-elf, or some other sort of humanoid. Knowledge(local) untrained roll to identify humanoid - ignore if the DC is greater than 10: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (17) + 3 = 20

Dex heeds Darius' instruction and shimmies past him as he moves towards him. As he does he draws another arrow and stops abruptly, his head tils slightly as he stares down the shaft of his arrow. For him time almost seems to stop, he hears his heartbeat echoing in his ears, keeping time like a drum beat in slow motion. He lets go of the arrow and time seems to speed up for him again as he raises his head to track its trajectory towards its mark.

Attack w. C.Bow: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (18) + 6 = 24 Should be no cover now
Damage: 1d8 + 2 ⇒ (3) + 2 = 5

I have completely forgot about the fire spreading, so I'll use the GM power to conjure up a fog that makes everyone forget that they noticed it. It must be spreading due to some freak wind suddenly rising :p

As Darius tumbles backwards, the hunter that stood besides him swoops his swords to the ground where he had just placed his hands to get momentum. While bleeding from his left hand, Dex shoots the hunter straight in his stomach, making him scream in agony.

At the same time, Horatius' greatsword connects with the shoulder of another hunter, causing him to almost fall to his knees as he curses you and the mother that bore you.

As Bayani looks through the window, thinking if he knows anything about these people, he can see the hunter that was looking around the corner steps in and releaves the one that Horatius hurt badly.

Meanwhile the fires that were smouldering pick up and it begins to spread as it burns the various herbs that are found in the garden.

Sorry, but I wasn't clear - was I hit again as I tried to escape?

I moved my icon on the map -- not sure where all the other people are, the locations don't seem current.

Arite, I'm back behind my pc, here is the recap.
All the hunters are at their correct location. Number 1 is dead, number 2 and 3 are alive.
The fire is spreading as indicated on the map, rapidly. Everyone but Darius, ignore the lightning on the map :D

The hunter that was hiding behind the corner shifts his position. He growls at you, and you can see his two swords glimmer in the light of the fires around us, just around the corner.
"Revenge!" he shouts, followed by a second one shouting the same thing near Dex and Darius' location.

Theor, you're up! I'm assuming you won't do anything about the hunter in the top right corner, so I'll post his actions below.

The hunter near Dex curses and shows his teeth, as he slowly but steadily moves forward and attempts to slice open Dex' hand as he did Darius'. He misses though, as Dex pulls back his hand just before the strike.

Is hunter 1 completely dead or just unconscious/bleeding out?

Bayani narrows his eyes as he sees one of their foes move to the corner of the building. He suspects one of his fellow travelers must be right around the corner, and if they can flank this fellow... He prepares to move out into the fight.

Is the little fence that hunter 2 just moved over an obstacle or difficult terrain or something, or can it be ignored for the purposes of movement?

Theor moves around to get a better angle on the foe near him.

Not sure if I need a roll or anything to get over that fence but can't move my guy. Want to go two squares directly east of #2

Attack: 1d20 + 4 + 2 ⇒ (14) + 4 + 2 = 20
Damage: 1d10 + 4 + 2 ⇒ (1) + 4 + 2 = 7

Theor and Darius: I originally had the hegde formed as a a climb check or acrobatics, but realize it would be a bit strange to "climb" a 5 foot wall, and very hard to "jump" a 5-foot wall.
>> Let's make all the hedges/low walls count as difficult terrain, make it a bit easier.
Bayani: See above :)

Theor crashes through the hedge, only to find someone lying on the ground, slowly bleeding out.
Want to continue your action?
Darius is looking where he could climb up and over the hedge, when he sees a gap he could squeeze through.
Meanwhile the fire is blazing around, setting half the garden on fire.

Kumari, you're up. Followed by Bayani, Dex, Darius and Horatius.