Way of the Wicked

Game Master Megan Robertson

Sorry, I've been sick th past couple of days.

Initiative: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (8) + 1 = 9

"Thats right!" Jack is quick to pick up, "We're new guards and, eh.. Gordie here, he's eh.. showin' us around. I'm Jack!" Jack flashes a tight-lipped smile to not show his canines. "Now, eh.. Grumblejack here, eh.. he's, eh.. he's goin' to stretch his legs an' get a spot of fresh air now, ok? Wardens orders."

bluff: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (11) + 5 = 16

"Sadly, 'tis the nature of Wardens to constantly change the prison's rules." Shalastar confirms. "Just the other day, he told us new guards about the uniform updates. I'm now in prison clothes for refusing to change uniform." Shalastar's sad frown is sincere and moving.

Bluff (Aid) (10)
10 + 10 = 20 +2 if attracted

Er, I'm going to pretend that ill fated charge attempt didn't happen, because everyone else seems to be doing the same.

Sotha couldn't help but wonder how long this paper thin charade would last before it collapsed into violence. Not too long, he hoped. Still, they might be a useful source of information before they died.

He approached the pair and said, as sternly as he could, "Additionally, the warden has asked us to look over the security in this prison, and what we have seen so far is disappointing," Sotha said, looking scornfully at the dice on the table. He looked back at the two guards, his tone softening as he continued, "Still, I suppose such a small thing as gambling can be overlooked, especially if you can direct us to more odious offenders."

Intimidate: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (20) + 4 = 24

In case it isn't clear, Sotha is trying to present himself as an authority figure to cow them into cooperation.

Malak kept quiet for the time being...there are enough lies being banded around...youd think this group would've just put steel to flesh on two lonely guards by now...perhaps they lack the sack necessary for murder...

Shalastar continues to walk casually towards Gordie, holding out his hand for the alarm horn.

Gordie hands the horn over.

"Here you are, my love."

One of the guards is attempting to draw his sword surreptitously under the table. He's not making a good job of it, you can all see what he's up to. The other one looks like he is buying the story of you lot being new guards.

Shalastar holds the horn carefully, ensuring that the guards cannot snatch it back.

"See, this is lovely. I know it's gotten a bit beat up over the years, but you can tell it was made by someone who loved their craft. I seem to have gotten a little confused about where we are with all this commotion, which way do we go to leave again?"

Bluff
1d20 + 10 ⇒ (20) + 10 = 30 (+2 if attracted)

Sotha held up a hand, as though to silence Shalastar. He gave the incredulous guard a dissapointed look. "You doubt us then?" Sotha said, drawing attention to the sword the guard was attempting to draw. "I was to understand that this prison houses the worst of offenders this nation has to offer, if we cannot trust one another, what hope do we have of keeping them from capitalizing on that mistrust and finding a way to escape and slaughter us all?"

Sotha paused, letting the man think about the possibilities before adding, "So, will you help us, or shall I report to the warden that you were gambling and that you tried to draw steel on us?"

"Nobody said anything about new guards," says the doubter, suddenly making his mind up. He stands up, knocking his stool over with a clatter.

What is the location of these guards in relation to the tables and ourselves? Is there a map?

I'm guessing Todin's attack didn't happen either?

Bluff: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (6) + 9 = 15

"Easy, friend. There must have been some break in the communication line..."

The doubting guard, let's call him Thomas, stops and stares.

"Hm. Well, if you say so... perhaps we'd better ask Sergeant Blackerly. Is he in his office, Bran, or did he go on patrol?" he asks the other guard.

Bran, who is standing by the hook where the signal horn was hanging, rubs his nose.

"He went outside, I think. But I'll check..." He starts walking towards you, going to one of the doors...

(DM scampers off to make map...)

OK. You came down the stairs by '16' and through the door into '8' which is the hallway. The table where the guards were playing dice is in the square just above and to the left of the 8. The guard is intending to go to the lower door on the left. (Sorry it's a bit small...)

Tragen moves to stand in front of the door, looming over the approaching guard. "I don't think that will be necessary at all, do you? We can wait for him to return."

Intimidate: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (1) + 8 = 9

Tragen's pallor, however, seems a little green, preventing him from presenting a truly intimidating presence. unless the guard has pitiful Wisdom

Since we never entered combat before talking Tragen isn't actually Sickened due to his Sin (if I'm reading things correctly), but I figure he is close, since the initial thoughts were to enter combat but Initiatives caused us to chat first. On a brighter note, someone else's Sin will be giving them a bonus, thanks to my natural 1.

Sotha's mood suddenly seemed to shift. Where before he seemed authoritative though friendly enough, now his voice ran cold, his eyes did too. "I tire of this," He said simply, drawing his blade. He added "Stop him!" before swinging at the guard that was still close at hand.

Attack: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (7) + 3 = 10
Damage: 1d8 + 3 ⇒ (2) + 3 = 5

Initiative: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (20) + 1 = 21

Sadly, it has to be an enemy that gets a natural one for me to get that boost.

Sotha suddenly swings at Bran, his blade glancing harmlessly off his mail-clad shoulder. He steps back in astonishment, hand going to his sword-hilt...

And I'd better roll some initiatives...

Bran's initiative: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (10) + 1 = 11

Thomas's initiative: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (15) + 1 = 16

Gordie's initiative: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (12) + 1 = 13

So, Round 1: what do you want to do, folks?

"Gordie, the other guards were leering terribly at me. Please protect me and let's get out of here."

Shalastar's voice becomes petulant and mournful.

Bluff
1d20 + 10 ⇒ (19) + 10 = 29 (+2 if attracted)

Reposted Initiatives in order

Sotha - 21
Jack - 21
Malak - 17
Thomas - 16
Targi - 14
Shalastar - 14
Gordie - 13
Bran - 11
Tragen - 9
Todin - 5

Round 1. Initiative 9.

Posting action now, just have the action happen at the correct time. If target is dead, shift to different target.

Tragen moves towards one of the guards, drawing his sword with a cruel grin before swinging it at him.

Move action to approach guard and draw longsword. If guard is already adjacent, move action to draw longsword.

Standard action to attack.

Power Attack: 1d20 + 5 - 1 ⇒ (16) + 5 - 1 = 20
Damage: 1d8 + 4 + 2 ⇒ (7) + 4 + 2 = 13

Thank you, Malak. I'll give the others a little time to respond...

Seeing things about to turn sideways JAck draws his sword and attacks the guard about to leave.

Attack, longsword: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (11) + 2 = 13
damage: 1d8 + 1 ⇒ (8) + 1 = 9

Malak mutters deep in his chest as his hand contracts. He reaches out and touches Todin on the shoulder.

Cast Guidance on Todin

May the Dark Prince guide your hand brother.

Round 1, Initiative 14
Unless Thomas does something particularly extraordinary:

Targi places a hand on Tragen's back and focuses her eyes on the guards. "May your sword cleave us a path to greater riches," she intones while trying to overlook Malak's similar action.

Higher in height and hierarchy mean nothing here!

Guidance cast on our dear anti paladin

Round #1

Sotha steps back, sword readied for another swing, but doesn't take it. Jack however darts in with his sword, attacking Bran. Again, no more than sparks off of armour, but Bran stops and turns towards him.

Malak meanwhile is busy muttering over Todin.

Thomas takes a swing at Tragen, who's advancing on him.

Thomas's attack: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (7) + 5 = 12, damage 1d8 + 2 ⇒ (1) + 2 = 3

Targi reaches out to touch Tragen, muttering as she does so.

Shalastar calls on Gordie for protection, and he responds pulling his sword out and attacking Thomas, who's closest.

Gordie's attack: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (13) + 5 = 18, damage 1d8 + 2 ⇒ (4) + 2 = 6

Bran raises his sword to attack Jack.

Bran's attack: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (10) + 5 = 15, damage 1d8 + 2 ⇒ (5) + 2 = 7

Tragen, clearly enlighted by Targi's spell, takes a mighty swing at Bran. It's a massive blow, severing his left arm at the shoulder! He reels and falls to the ground, his life blood flooding out!

Todin stands back, watching the carnage.

Next round's actions & rolls please. Summary will be posted early next week - Monday if people have come by, else I'll wait until Wednesday (interview Tuesday).

Sotha must have been impressed with Tragen's attack, because he smiled and offered praise. "Well done!"

He stepped around the body and moved on to Thomas, attacking him with his sword.

Attack: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (14) + 3 = 17
Damage: 1d8 + 3 ⇒ (5) + 3 = 8

Since Damage to Bran wasn't posted, I'm assuming it's becasue he was killed.

"I know this is all very confusing, but trust me when I say we're doing the right thing. I know something about these people that they never told you."

Shalastar releases a flare of bright purple light in Thomas's face. (casting flare) Fort DC 15 or be dazzled for 1 minute.

Jack attacks Thomas.

attack: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (6) + 2 = 8
damage: 1d8 + 1 ⇒ (5) + 1 = 6

Todin's delay is mostly due to his being unhappy with this turn of events. He looks back at his cleric friend:

"Father Jaedoom, I had hoped that the Dark Prince's will would allow our subterfuge to prevail, but it seems that our elf friend has made that quite impossible. Fear not, I shall put His guidance to good use."

Todin then joins the fray, attempting to flank with anyone in any way that he can.

Dagger Attack: 1d20 + 4 + 1 ⇒ (14) + 4 + 1 = 19 +2 if flanking
Dagger Damage: 1d4 + 2 ⇒ (4) + 2 = 6 +1d6 Sneak Attack if flanking: 1d6 ⇒ 6

Malak shrugged at Todin's astute observation and couldn't have agreed more...although getting free of Brandeshar was bound to lead to blood shed...albeit later than sooner would have been preferred...Let them rot in Hell. The Prince of Law's priest couldn't see an opening and was loathe to move around in the middle of such a melee.

If an enemy comes with reach then Malak will make the Touch attack below. Otherwise he will delay.

Touch of Evil: 1d20 - 1 ⇒ (13) - 1 = 12
If hit target is Sickened for one round

"The game was over, we had nothing else to gain. Worry not, we'll have opportunity to do it agian." As he spoke, Sotha watched for further opportunities to strike.

Round 2. Initiative 9.

Tragen sneers as he deflects Thomas' blow, and smiles as his blade takes down Bran.

Turning back to Thomas, he holds his bloody sword in front of his face before slashing at him.

Power Attack: 1d20 + 5 - 1 ⇒ (16) + 5 - 1 = 20
Damage: 1d8 + 4 + 2 ⇒ (2) + 4 + 2 = 8

"Oh, the game is never over. You just have to know how the pieces move." Shalastar says, seductively.

"I like the cut of your gib, Sorcerer. I have a feeling that we'll get along just fine."

Round #2

Sotha, seeing that Bran's life is rapidly ebbing out of him, steps away from the body to attack Thomas, swinging his sword mightily... and watches the blade slice into his body, as he evades a strike from Jack. Blood gushes out and he's clearly badly hurt although still on his feet.

Malak lurks but nobody comes near enough for him to reach out.

Thomas gasps in pain, clutching his side, and swings his sword at Sotha.

Thomas's attack: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (2) + 5 = 7, damage 1d8 + 2 ⇒ (3) + 2 = 5

Targi steps back, content to leave others to dispose of the guard. Meanwhile Shalastar mutters and gestures, causing an eye-wrenching flare of actinic purple light right in Thomas's face. He whimpers, while Gordie casts an admiring glance at Shalastar.

Thomas's Fort save: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (12) + 4 = 16

Tragen steps in to the blinking and wounded Thomas, taunting him with the bloodied blade before cutting him down with a mighty blow that leaves no doubt that Thomas is dead. Most people do, after all, function better with their head still attached to their neck!

Todin has to step back sharply to avoid being splattered.

Combat over, well done folks!

Tragen looks around as his blade drips with the guards' blood. His angry eyes flit over to Gordie, but eventually fall away to the bloody Bran. Moving towards the downed guard he mutters softly, "More sacrifices to my Queen." before bringing his blade down on his neck.

"We may as well have a matching pair," he says, looking at the others with a shrug.

"We need to find out what's behind the doors here. Presumably, this one," he says, pointing at the door Bran was heading towards, "goes outside. Shalastar, can your... friend... describe the area?"

Shalastar looks over at his companion.

"Gordie, can you tell us what's behind the doors? More of your friends? I have to warn you, they'll be very angry to see us together. They might even try to kill us. If we can just get outside without running into any more of your friends, that would be ideal."

Diplomacy
1d20 + 11 + 2 ⇒ (11) + 11 + 2 = 24

"Also, where would a spellbook be taken? I'll not be happy if I have to start a new one."

Gordie is still looking in awe of his beloved's powers.

"How did you do that?" he asks. "That purple flash?"

He then starts to point at doors. Map Update

The double doors at the end of the corridor are the way outside.

# 9 : Barracks ("There are some off-duty guards in there asleep"
# 10: Mess Hall
# 11: Kitchen
# 12: Armoury ("Kept locked, the Sergeant has the key on him.")
# 13: Storeroom
# 14: Sergeant Blackerly's office ("He may be there, not sure.")

Gordie looks at Sotha.

"Confiscated weapons would be in the armoury, anything else of interest the Warden will have up in his tower."

"We may have been quick enough with this not to have made too much noise, but we ought to make sure. A small group of us that can remain quiet long enough to get into the barracks and make sure any sleepers there remain... asleep. A good slice across the throat should work. The rest with Grumblejack can keep an eye on the sergeant's door and on our backs."

If Tragen leaves his shield behind, he'll have a +4 Stealth (+2 with the shield). Not the greatest, but should suffice to sneak up on sleepers. Even if they wake up, our uniforms should leave us with the upper hand.

"Alternatively we can move to take down the sergeant, if he's in there, and deal with the others if and when they arrive, or afterwards if they don't appear."

"I don't really care, as long as the prison runs with blood none survive."

"If the guards are sleeping in the barracks, we should eliminate them now. Better we cut their throats while they sleep than to fight them on one side and the sergeant on the other."

Sotha made to remove his armor before asking who else would join them.

You're doing better than me, my stealth is +1 without armor, -1 with.

Its a good plan. I have no talents for sneaking around. I'll wait here with the giant.

"I believe that this is where I may be of assistance."

Stealth: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (17) + 6 = 23

Todin sneaks into the guardroom veeery veery carefully, silently regarding any sleeping bodies around. He draws close to the nearest one, raises his dagger and aims for the throat.

All the harder for them to scream... He thinks.

Coup de Grace: 1d4 + 2 + 1d6 ⇒ (2) + 2 + (6) = 10 with the base damage x2 is 14 damage. If that doesn't kill the guard, he must make a DC 22 Fort save or die.

Todin, taking the initiative here, sneaks as quiet as a mouse into the barracks (#9). As he opens the door, a stout wooden one but not locked, you all can hear snoring from within. He slips within...

Others who wish to follow may read the spoiler.

What is everyone else doing? And what will Todin do next?

"I'll go with you." Jack states and follows after Todin into the barracks with his sword in hand.

Stealth: 1d20 + 10 - 2 ⇒ (18) + 10 - 2 = 26

Coming into the barracks as Todin slices open a guards throat, Jack follows suit and slices open a second throat.

Coup de grace: 2d8 + 2 ⇒ (1, 2) + 2 = 5

DC 15 fort or die.

Leaving his shield behind, Tragen joins Todin and Jack to slice the throat of the last sleeping guard. Not one to be subtle, he two-hands his longsword for the cut.

Stealth: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (17) + 4 = 21

Coup de Grace w/ Power Attack: 2d8 + 18 ⇒ (1, 8) + 18 = 27

DC 37 Fort save or die, but methinks the damage was enough to kill him

Shalastar entertains the group still waiting outside with some dancing lights, and reapplies the charm on Gordie. (This time the charm lasts 2 hours.)

Sotha followed the others, but stopped when he saw that each guard already had a killer. He stood in the doorway, ready to come to the aid of anyone who failed to kill their guard.

in the interest of efficiency, I'm going to roll for a charge, to be used if Jack or Tragen's guard survives

Charge: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (10) + 6 = 16
Damage: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (19) + 3 = 22

I'm not going to bother confirming critical on this hypothetical attack, because even if it gets used, the charge alone will almost certainly kill him

OK, the 3 guards have gone to meet their Maker(s). Do you wish to help yourselves to anything from in here or will you move on?

Shalastar - your charm is if anything too effective, Gordie wants to nuzzle your neck...

"Not now, darling. We need to find a nice quiet place for that sort of thing. Meaning, we need to get out of here first." Shalastar informs his companion passionately.

Jesus, Tragen, talk about overkill...

Todin will search the bodies for keys and other useful loot. He'll take 10 for a 17, as we're not in any immediate danger.

If we're going to make it out of this place alive, I'm going to be needing some more befitting belongings. A Lord of the Laels cannot subsist off of daggers alone...