Adventure 0: Thread 1

[attriel]

These are the folks we have right now? Does Goater want to jump to the other adventure and play with Swee? (I won't take it personally, just figured I'd ask since you're pals)

Turin Hammer-Strike Male Dwarf Cleric
Flay Male Tiefling Wizard
Der Goater Male Half-Elf Warlord
Sarzathalus "Sarz" Male Half-Elf Fighter
Sitara Female Dragonborn Warlock
Tess Blacklocke Human Female Rogue

[attriel]

The six of you are sitting at a tavern in Fehrwright, a semi-regular stop for barges and small boats moving up and down the river. You've been in town for 2-3 weeks now, and you all met, in various ways, along the road and in town, and have identified each other as the adventurer type, folks that might be good to go out and "do something" with.

During your time in town, you've explored around, and found that generally the constabulary keeps the peace pretty well. There are occasional small crimes, but no more than the occasional drunk bargehand's purse coming up empty in the morning. Listening to some of the travelling traders who've come in for a meal or a pint, you hear rumors that there may be a goblin lair to the northeast of town. Or possibly kobolds. The descriptions are never that detailed, and you've not heard anything more than "I talked to so-and-so, and he said he saw...". Two days ago, a small group of folks, couple families it looked like, came in from Nebas. Last evening you heard them talking about missing neighbors and lost livestock. "Caty's chickens, even! You can't tell me someone stole them, there were always too damned many chickens running around, every body could have half a dozen and there'd still be more! why'd someone want to steal Caty's chickens? Not right, I'm glad we've left."

You've noticed that your funds are starting to dwindle. You'll need to start looking for common rooms to sleep in, cheaper, and cut down on food, or, better, you'll need to head out of town soon and try your hand at some vanquishing of evildoers and liberating of vast sums of cash. The cash will be important for the more food and a bed, definitely.

[Shiz]

/ooc

Is there a mayor/sheriff to ask about potential bounties?

How far is Nebas, by foot or barge? Barge fee?

[EricStratton]

*Flay checks his pockets to pay for this round of drinks*

Uh...maybe investigating this "lair" wouldn't be such a bad idea. Assuming we'll get some cash out of it.

And can someone spot me?

[DinbinFanfoom]

OOC: I'm gonna jump right in. Tess is an opportunist, so she's gonna see if she can milk the atmosphere for what it's worth. Plus, I'm gonna try to keep you on your toes, Atty! Edit: We think alike, Sarz!

Leaving her compatriots to their drinking at the table, Tess Blacklocke sought out the town's head constable.

"If you have a moment, sir! It's terrible the things they're saying about goin's-on in the Northeast... I hear it's getting so bad that decent, honest folk can't go far out of down without being accosted! Missing people and livestock, those be grim tidings, wouldn't you agree? Why, I heard that a child has even gone missing, and they only found a blood trail! Something should really be done about this, don't you agree? I'm sure if you posted a modest reward, a suitable posse might be motivated to take on the risk of securing the town again, without diverting any of you fine law enforcement types. What do you say?"

Tess is stretching the truth here, but why not try to get additional cash for something we're thinking of doing anyway? If it's OK, PM me and I'll do a Bluff skill-check roll. Note that I haven't really derailed your storyline.

[attriel]

/ooc

Is there a mayor/sheriff to ask about potential bounties?

How far is Nebas, by foot or barge? Barge fee?

Yes, there is the head of the constabulary (think small town sheriff), and there's a city-hall structure. You haven't seen anything posted about bounties, although a few traders have expressed interest in one or two of you coming along with them as protection.

Nebas is maybe 3 days, on foot, listening to the newcomers talk. You can probably get one of the boats to take you upriver and drop you off, but it doesn't sound like a regular stop.

[attriel]

Leaving her compatriots to their drinking at the table, Tess Blacklocke sought out the town's head constable.

"If you have a moment, sir! It's terrible the things they're saying about goin's-on in the Northeast... I hear it's getting so bad that decent, honest folk can't go far out of down without being accosted! Missing people and livestock, those be grim tidings, wouldn't you agree? Why, I heard that a child has even gone missing, and they only found a blood trail! Something should really be done about this, don't you agree? I'm sure if you posted a modest reward, a suitable posse might be motivated to take on the risk of securing the town again, without diverting any of you fine law enforcement types. What do you say?"


"Slow down a minute. If you're talking about those goblins, there's less than a dozen of them and they've never been closer than 2 days from here. But whats this about a missing child? No one's told me, where in town did that happen?"


Tess is stretching the truth here, but why not try to get additional cash for something we're thinking of doing anyway? If it's OK, PM me and I'll do a Bluff skill-check roll.

OOC: Oh, good. I started reading it, then went back to my text "child? what child?" :o No bluff yet. Toss me a roll, though, and I'll use it when we get that far (that way you don't post just as I leave, and then wait until tomorrow for me to say "i need a roll"). Don't know if we'll need it, but might as well get one on file :) Don't post it, just mail it to me, label it "bluff roll" so's I can dig it out easily :)

[Kiir]

Sitara sits in the tavern and listens to the rumors, she isn't that worried about some farmer's chickens, but making some coin could be useful, plus she's getting kind of bored of town and could use a fun diversion. She figures killing some kobolds or goblins could add a bit of excitement to her days. She continues to listen to the rumors swirl around her and waits to see what everyone else does.

[Lycos]

Turin is going to head out in town and look for caravans that might need some hired guns against these kobolds and such. Plus, this will be the best way for me to make a name for myself. The added cash for that job and a lift to the lair might be a nice combination bonus for us. If I hear of any names, I'll approach them.

Anyone want to go with me for some company?

[Shiz]

I will accompany you, dwarf. I came here on a caravan so maybe I will recognize someone and two people make the offer of protection a bit more viable.

[Lycos]

I will accompany you, dwarf. I came here on a caravan so maybe I will recognize someone and two people make the offer of protection a bit more viable.

Aye. I'll welcome the company. The half-elf and I are leaving. Meet you all back here later?

[noptov52]

Der Goater sat in the corner of the low-end tavern, nursing his hangover and struggling to remember how he ended up in Fehrwright. "A small time town with small time problems" he muttered to himself as he scrounged enough coppers out of his dwindling purse to order another dreadful Ale. He didn't dislike the people of Fehrwright, indeed most were good people and it seemed a decent enough place to live... for someone else.

With a heroic effort, Der Goater stood up and gingerly walked towards the Dwarf who was jabbering something about kobolds and caravans. "Room for one more?" he asked.

[Shiz]

Sarz misplays a few choice notes on his pipes. The kind that make a hangover headache pulse a bit more.

"The more muscle the merrier."

[EricStratton]

With no offer to help pay for the round, Flay begrudgingly "finds" some of his dwindling funds handing them to the barkeep.

"As much as I would like to join Sitara and just watch, I need gold." Finishing his drink, "I'm ready when you all are."

[Kiir]

Seeing everyone else get up, Sitara shrugs her shoulders and decides to follow along, "I'll come along, not much happening in town, could use some excitement." She gathers her stuff and follows the others as they look for a caravan that needs protection.

[EricStratton]

Flay looks around.

"Has anyone seen Tess?"

[noptov52]

"Must have wandered off. I would warn everyone to check their coin purse, but if we had any money worth stealing, I don't think we'd be looking for guard duty."

"Let's head towards the town hall and see if any of the government cretins know anything useful. Besides, there might be a caravan master or two who's hiring once they finish paying the tax & tariffs."

[Shiz]

"Bah. This town is small. If she is of any worth, she will have no problem finding us. Let's see if we can secure a job towards Nebas and worry about her later."

[DinbinFanfoom]

Flay looks around.
"Has anyone seen Tess?"
"...If you did, I should hang up my daggers and become a barmaid...", Tess laughed from at his left elbow. Her expression turned to one of frustration and she mock-pouted. "Stingy sheriff... so when are we off?"

[Lycos]

Turin looks around and guesses that his idea must be pretty decent or everyone is desperately bored.

"Well, let's get this party started." He begins to head out checking that everyone who said they were coming are still coming.

After leaving through the front door, Turin stops looks at the street of Fehrwright. As usual not a whole lot going on. The group begins to slowly emerge from the tavern.

Once everyone is out of the tavern, Turin begins to walk down to the location of the business section where we might find caravans coming and going.

For the education of the group, Turin begins to talk about his grandfather and uncles who slew the kobolds who had encroached upon the local mines of his home. At the same time, keeping an ear out for any talk of work or rumors about these kobolds that we are hearing about.

[DinbinFanfoom]

OOC: Since we haven't really "started" yet, I'll assume we're still in a sort of free-form RP mode.

Near the rear of the group, Tess silently rolled her eyes and, with her hand, made a "yakkity-yak" gesture towards Sarz as Turin went on about his ancestors kobold-slaying prowess.

[attriel]

Letting Turin do the talking, you make the rounds.

"Critters, eh? Yeah, I suppose it might not be a bad idea to take on a guard or two. How much are you wanting, to protect me from this 'terrible danger'?"

When he realizes that Turin isn't looking for himself, but for a group, interest wanes. "I might be willing to take on a guard, maybe even three if there were more than your word. But I don't need an army, I sell cloth and spices from upriver. Cost more than the trip is worth to take the lot of ya!"


Moving on, you encounter the same kinds of reactions. Eventually you find your way to a woman putting together a collective. "Well, we've kindof made a point of getting only female traders on this trip. But I s'pose some of the hands are men. And the horses. So, yeah, I guess if you're heading North East we might come to an agreement."

OOC: This is the first I've made it on all day, oops. Turin, since you're talking, want to give me an idea of what you're looking for in terms of pay and arrangements? Anyone else can interject themselves into the negotiations, but the caravan mistress will notice the "internal power play", FYI

[Shiz]

OOC:

Half-elves gives +1 Diplo to all group members. We have 2, but it shouldn't stack conceptually.

[DinbinFanfoom]

Tess is more than happy to let Turin do the talking for now.

[Shiz]

Not interfering.

[noptov52]

/ooc Can we boost Turin's skill rolls? I've got 11 Diplomacy, but my character is not the type to disrupt the flow of a negotiation (better to wait for an opportune moment).

[Kiir]

Sitara figures that since Turin has been doing the talking so far, that he can continue to bargain. She watches him bargain, but does nothing to help or hinder at this point in time.

[EricStratton]

Flay crosses his arms and looks at Turin.

[DinbinFanfoom]

Tess does her best to remain quiet and hopes nobody realizes her mind is screaming, "WHY DO WE HAVE A DWARF AS A FRONT-MAN?!?" :lowlol:

[attriel]

To keep it posting

After some discussion, the caravan master offers the following terms.

"It's a week's journey to Lukast, so how does 5 gold coins, or it's equivalent in silver, sound? If the goblins do appear, you can keep anything you kill."

She crosses her arms, eyeing Turin and the mob behind him. They look reasonably capable, and she figures they're a little prominent to be setting her up. They've obviously been around town looking for the job, so someone else will remember them if they try to rob her. "You can discuss it with your friends, obviously."

I don't know if Lycos can read on the weekends or not, so everyone can post their comments. She's expecting the group to have some internal discussion. She may be trying to overhear though.

I did some rolls in the background here, so Turin got some assisstance (3 successful assists). You looked "trustworthy and competent". and less "ragtag" :)

[EricStratton]

Still looking at Turin, Flay say, "5 gold each."

[Kiir]

Sitara hears Flay's suggestion and rolls her eyes, she then comments, "A slightly more realistic suggestion might be 3 gold a person for the week."

[Shiz]

"As far as I am concerned, this caravan is just bread crumbs to real bread. Our wages aren't that important. Better to get the job, than not. She probably expects us to bargain some, though. If we don't we look like novice adventurers! Ask for 8 total."

[noptov52]

In a voice just loud enough for the caravan leader to overhear "Surely a competent caravan leader like this one realizes the potential gain from having a sturdy crew like us join her for this journey. Whether there are kobolds or goblins or any of a number of other dangers, they won't leave anyone left alive when they raid a caravan. A few more gold will buy her a lot of protection."

"Not to mention the boost to her reputation if word spreads that her 'guards' fought off a large goblin raid. We should ask for 2.5 gold each and a performance bonus if we root out their camp."

[EricStratton]

Whispering to Sitara Flay explains, "Perhaps my counter offer was a tad high but I think Sarz got the gist of my intentions. Nonetheless, someone kick that dwarf and let us be off."

[Lycos]

Sorry it was a busy weekend, and Friday was a busy day. So, let me jump back in here.

I agree with Sarz. This is our ride and some free meals. I'm hoping that the loot is with the kobolds. Plus, I don't think this is a gold type town.

OOC: Atty, do we know a ball park of where we can be with prices considering the local economy? I'm not looking to make a killing here, just looking to be in the standard rate range. To start, I'll begin a little slow here.

Turin turns to the woman. Well, we'd like to get expenses covered at the least, meals and we'll be riding along with your wagons. We've got other skills that help as well. I'm a skilled healer and I can give anyone basic care if they need it for the trip. And I want to be clear, if we run into these monsters, we'll be running them down. When we succeed in killing them. We just ask that there is some room on your caravan for anything that we might gain after the fight is over. As far as a fee, I'm willing to...

Waiting for Atty's response

[attriel]

The problem is the dichotomy between adventurer prices and living wages for non-adventurers.

After another hours discussion, the final agreed-upon result is for 10G, double if a significant threat is encountered. "I still don't think there's any real danger, but you seem convinced."

The caravan moves out in the morning, with your group now working as guards as the wagons move slowly on.

To move us forward to get closer to doing active stuff. There are 6 wagons, and another 4 horses with riders. The wagons move in single file. Where are folks walking or riding? There's room with any wagon for one additional rider, if anyone wants to ride rather than walk.

[Lycos]

(Using italics for OOC)

/paranoid mode = on

I would suggest that we keep the wagons as close together as possible. And I would think that we could move faster riding rather than walking. But in case of an attack, we all move to join up at the location of the attack or if there is a two pronged attack, that we move to the center to use our skills together rather than splitting up.

Any other thoughts?

[DinbinFanfoom]

OOC: "Shotgun!" Just kidding. Tess does want to be near the front, though, to keep her eyes peeled.

"I don't know about you fellows, but I wanna be near the front. I'll walk, assuming the wagons don't go too fast..."

Easier to hear when not on a rickety wagon. I'll even take point, if that means I have to be a bit farther ahead to stay quiet and listen all the while. I know I can't "sneak" at full walk, but I'll do my best to make sure any ambushers hear the wagons before they hear me.

[EricStratton]

I'll take the rear-ish guard riding on the last or next to last cart unless we've got a better idea on who should take up the rear.

[Shiz]

I would rather not eat dust, so am happy in front.

Sarz will make small talk with those on horseback and wagons near the front. Greatsword sheathed, but shortbow ready.

[DinbinFanfoom]

PS: What kind of terrain are we on? Open fields? A narrow track in the trees?

[Lycos]

I'll ride in the third wagon. I too will make small talk as well. My sling will be easily accessible with some sling stones as well. Also, I will be making general observations of the people in the caravan. I'm looking for anyone who is acting suspicious.

[Kiir]

Sitara jumps up and rides on one of the wagons. She makes some small talk if the driver or anyone else on it is interested in talking, but otherwise she is happy to sit and observe everything going on around her. She figures that not much is likely to happen since the townspeople don't even know what type of humanoids are around the town, which leads her to believe they are a minor threat most likely. She does stay alert though, and keeps a watch for trouble and her ears peeled for any interesting rumors.

[Shiz]

Bah. Wasn't done.

Goal of the small talk is to learn something, anything, about the region but I am not being pushy. Insight and Diplomacy are rather average so I doubt I will get anything special. I also don't want to penalize awareness/perception.

[EricStratton]

Flay tries to shmooze the driver of the cart he's in (w/ his +3 Charisma modifier) to try to get some info but mostly he doesn't trust any of these people and keeps an eye out, periodically glancing behind the caravan.

/ooc I already sent a roll to Atty (it has the +3 CHA modifier already added, atty). It wasn't...good.

[Shiz]

/ooc I am assuming we only need to roll checks like that if there is something specific to actually learn? Not that atty would prompt us necessarily. I don't want to send atty a roll every time I decribe general activity unless he wants that.

[EricStratton]

/ooc I am assuming we only need to roll checks like that if there is something specific to actually learn? Not that atty would prompt us necessarily. I don't want to send atty a roll every time I decribe general activity unless he wants that.
No idea whatsoever. Figured it was easier to just make the roll and send it then wait for atty to say "ok, make then roll" and then do it. /shrug.

Atty can set up a filter to trash if he doesn't want them. :lowlol:

[noptov52]

Where is the Caravan mistress? Der Goater will take up position walking near her, chatting amiably (when possible).

[Lycos]

I think that makes everyone... Atty, I hope you're not waiting for more from us on this...

[attriel]

The first day out of town passes uneventfully. You all find places to ride or walk, and chat amiably with the merchants on this trip.

Sarz and Flay (Perception: 22 and 17) notice that two of the drivers are watching you, and they seem to peer around at frequent intervals, as though keeping a mental map of your locations.

Camp the first night is settled quickly, and the party stands guard in shifts through the evening and night. "You're the guards for this trip, I'll leave it to you how you split the time."

The caravan starts moving again in the morning, some clouds in the sky suggest that it will rain before this journey is through. Otherwise, the second day also passes unremarkably. Sitara and Tess manage to strike up some conversations with the merchants. The merchants seem to find the two women more relatable on this all-female plus-guards expedition.

Goater finally gets Ravenna to open up about the caravan and her reasons for setting it up. He learns that she is originally from further North up the coast, the port city of Locke.

Instead of lagging while I asked the questions, I just posted through a few things. The caravan stops for the night around 7pm and starts moving again at 7am, so if everyone could tell me where in that 12 hours they're standing watches, I'll assume that the watch order stays the same for all the nights.

If anyone wants to have had any conversations or discussions during the two days I just ran through, post it and I'll cover the result in my next post. If it turns out, say, that Sarz and Flay decide to kill the two merchants in their sleep, well, it's fair to assume that the night might, then, be less uneventful. If nothing else, you just killed two people!

[Lycos]

Watch schedule

1st Group
Sitara Female Dragonborn Warlock
Der Goater Male Half-Elf Warlord

2nd Group
Flay Male Tiefling Wizard
Sarzathalus "Sarz" Male Half-Elf Fighter

3rd Group
Turin Hammer-Strike Male Dwarf Cleric
Tess Blacklocke Human Female Rogue

This puts a magic type with a fighter type. I would recommend 6 hour shifts using only 2 groups a night. That would give one group a whole nights sleep rather than sleep depriving everyone. Also, we could still do pretty well with 6 hours of sleep if you were on duty.

I would just randomize the group that gets the "special" event. We don't need to plot who is exactly on watch per some schedule.

Anyone else have any other suggestions?

[EricStratton]

I suggest splitting up group three. No offense to the ladies but neither of them have low-light vision; the rest of us do. Other than that I like the plan.

[EricStratton]

As for killing those creepy merchants, Flay stays his hand for now. If he was killing based whether or not he trusted someone, at this point he'd have to destroy his party-mates too.

[Lycos]

I suggest splitting up group three. No offense to the ladies but neither of them have low-light vision; the rest of us do. Other than that I like the plan.

Good point, how's that?

[EricStratton]

Flay thinks he said "Sounds good".

[DinbinFanfoom]

Tess agrees with the shift arrangement. Good perception, but bad eyesight.

During the day, I'll attempt to "schmooze" more and find out why they distrust men so. I mean, Der Goater is freaky looking... and... *shudder* loincloth and all but they're ok folks, once you get to know them...

[Shiz]

Sarz is used to be treated skeptically and it doesn't (outwardly) bother him. While on watch, he has his greatsword ready instead of his bow (which is strung but not in hand.) I would suggest the watch pairings circle the camp together. Sarz has told the group that he will blow his whistle or pan pipes in an alarming fashion should he detect something suspicious.

When not on watch, he sleeps under one of the wagons. Pick at random if it matters.

[Kiir]

Sitara nods at the rotation suggestion, "Works for me." She'll bunk under a wagon as well when she is resting.

[noptov52]

Der Goater grunts his affirmation to the watch schedule and continues to stick close to Ravenna. He continues to chat with her when they are not otherwise occupied, attempting to pick up potentially useful information without being obvious about it.

At night, when not on watch, he sleeps with his back to a crate in the wagon nearest to Ravenna, figuring that if the caravan leader dies it'll be hard to collect their pay.

[Lycos]

Turin will have his Battle Hammer at the ready when he sleeps. Sleeping under the wagons sounds like a good idea to me. Preferably using the wheels as some limited concealment. Also, we'll make sure we try and camp in the most advantageous places (on the top of hills if available, limited brush cover nearby if possible). I'll confer with our Warlord De Goater for any ideas he might have.

[EricStratton]

In case it needs explicit saying - Flay keeps to himself for the most part during the day while keeping an eye on the suspicious drivers. He'll bed towards the rear of the caravan when not on watch.

[attriel]

The second day and night pass in the same manner as the first. The suspicious merchants have stopped watching the party, apparently accepting that perhaps you are not trying to lead them into a trap somehow.

Mid-morning on the third day Goat notices some tracks along the path, and Tess sees more going off the path, possibly towards the low ridges and treeline about 100' away to the East. The trail looks like it will bend around towards those same ridges soon, as your goal is on the other side of those hills.

After some discussion, Goat declares that the tracks come from Goblins, although Sitara suggests that they look like wolf-prints.

Waiting on their guard, the caravan has come to a halt. "Well? Is it something or not?"

[DinbinFanfoom]

"I don't know if they're Goblin or Wolf either. Maybe both? Maybe goblins with trained dogs or wolves? Is that possible? It could be a trap... especially since the road winds around that way, these might be tracks from their last ambush. I say we stop and go investigate before proceeding. I suggest we approach the hills via a flanking route, maintaining cover if possible. We don't just want to follow the tracks straight-away. It also might be wise to leave one or two with the wagons for protection, but regardless, I wanna go check it out."

ooc: Tess is impetuous and a bit excited at the prospect of seeing action, but given her class and background, she's naturally suspicious. She'd LIKE to go investigate the hills, even if nobody else goes, sneaking and looking/listening the whole way. And no offense, if she's with the scouting group (should one form) she'd rather be slightly ahead or slightly behind. She trusts her instincts and skills (maybe to a fault) more than a herd thundering through the underbrush. :)

[Shiz]

If our trail is going that way, no need to chase a possible animal trail. Does Ravenna know enough to opine on the ambush possibilities on the trail ahead? How far out from our destination are we?

Sarz is against splitting up the party without more information/certainty that a threat is awaiting us.

edit: If Tess wants to reconnoiter some, she is welcome to. Our job is caravan protection, though.

[Lycos]

The second day and night pass in the same manner as the first. The suspicious merchants have stopped watching the party, apparently accepting that perhaps you are not trying to lead them into a trap somehow.

Mid-morning on the third day Goat notices some tracks along the path, and Tess sees more going off the path, possibly towards the low ridges and treeline about 100' away to the East. The trail looks like it will bend around towards those same ridges soon, as your goal is on the other side of those hills.

After some discussion, Goat declares that the tracks come from Goblins, although Sitara suggests that they look like wolf-prints.

Waiting on their guard, the caravan has come to a halt. "Well? Is it something or not?"

Where are we on the map?

How many are we talking about?

How fresh are the prints? If someone knows better, the more distinct the track, the fresher it is.

Anyone have some knowledge on monsters and the like?

How big are these tracks? Do they compare to human size or large dog size?

What type of terrain are we in?

[Lycos]

If our trail is going that way, no need to chase a possible animal trail. Does Ravenna know enough to opine on the ambush possibilities on the trail ahead? How far out from our destination are we?

Sarz is against splitting up the party without more information/certainty that a threat is awaiting us.

edit: If Tess wants to reconnoiter some, she is welcome to. Our job is caravan protection, though.

I agree with this as well.

[EricStratton]

Flay suggests sending the warrior ahead. If there's trouble, yell.

[DinbinFanfoom]

Where are we on the map?
How many are we talking about?
How fresh are the prints? If someone knows better, the more distinct the track, the fresher it is.
Anyone have some knowledge on monsters and the like?
How big are these tracks? Do they compare to human size or large dog size?
ooc: My assumption was that Tess wouldn't know, given her low nature vs higher dungeoneering score. If they were tracks indoor, maybe she'd know!

Edit: If you give me a bit of a head start, it's only 100'... I can probably sneak the "tracks" route and scout it within a few minutes. If I see anything suspicious, I'll double-back. Assuming Tess can whistle... we could arrange a "clear" and "not clear" signal. I'm more against sneaking up the road because "they" (if there are a they) will be watching that route, most likely.

[Kiir]

Sitara looks at the tracks and hopes it means there will be some action soon, the two days of inaction on the caravan were starting to bore her. She waited and let the rest of the team decide how they wanted to handle it though.

[EricStratton]

How many are we talking about?

How fresh are the prints? If someone knows better, the more distinct the track, the fresher it is.

Anyone have some knowledge on monsters and the like?

How big are these tracks? Do they compare to human size or large dog size?
/ooc I'm guessing if we were to know any of those details (as if one of our toons was able to glean any of it), our DM would've told us.

[Lycos]

/ooc I'm guessing if we were to know any of those details (as if one of our toons was able to glean any of it), our DM would've told us.

ooc: I've had it both ways, it depends on the DM.

[EricStratton]

ooc: I've had it both ways, it depends on the DM.
Ah, ok.

[Lycos]

Well, if nothing changes with my questions.

I would like to ask the caravan leader if the fighters can use the horses for the next few hours just in case we need people to get into the fight faster. Other than that, I'm ok with Tess sneaking as she sees fit.

Any other suggestions?

[EricStratton]

Any other suggestions?
Aside from sending the meat shield ahead first? Nope.

[attriel]

If our trail is going that way, no need to chase a possible animal trail. Does Ravenna know enough to opine on the ambush possibilities on the trail ahead? How far out from our destination are we?


Ravenna knows that the road goes through some low hills, a day or so in the rough terrain up and down stuff. There were no problems when she came this way a month ago, didn't see anything.

"Once through the hills, which would be tomorrow evening I think with the wagons, we'd be two, maybe 3, days out. The wagons are making good time, so far"

Where are we on the map?

How many are we talking about?

How fresh are the prints? If someone knows better, the more distinct the track, the fresher it is.

Anyone have some knowledge on monsters and the like?

How big are these tracks? Do they compare to human size or large dog size?

What type of terrain are we in?

You are here. I don't really have a particular map laid out of the countryside, but you're maybe halfway to your destination. See above.

There's a handful. It's hard to tell, for sure, as there's a jumble of tracks on the road. The tracks you found, your tracks, wagon tracks, horses. Best estimates are between 3" and 1' long, and 3-6" wide. The tracks look to be a little older.

The terrain is fairly open right now, grassland between trees kept back from the road. The hills are low and rolling. Large enough that the heavy wagons may bear watching on the slope, but not mountainous large. There's been no rain for a few days, just some dew each morning, so the path is dusty. Based on that, and that the tracks look like they were made in damp ground, Ravenna suggests that they are probably a week or older.

Seriously? You guys have no perception or nature skill, and the rolls I grabbed were horrible. There were enough decent ones to give you something to chew on, but not nearly good enough to say "it looks like 6-7 goblins, first level. The oldest one walks with a limp." :) But your nature skills? How do you people figure out which ones are the trees and which the squirrels? oi! (and on one roll, I think someone got them backwards, that dice site was being MEAN!)

The nature rolls were: 12 4 20 5 6 2. The perception rolls that found the tracks had 2 twenties, but otherwise weren't much better. I just rolled for the group to get it done quickly. Which reminds me -- When we get to combat, in a table game you'd all roll your own dice for the attacks. In play-by-post games, usually the GM rolls so that the rolls are "fair" (but the secure roller handles that nicely, and i trust you anyway), and because they know the target numbers. Do you want to roll your own, and just include your action and roll, and I'll post about whether you hit or not? Basically, you can even post the result of your action and roll based on what you think hit/miss, and if you're wrong we'll just ignore that part of the post :) (like, you get an 8, it probably didn't hit their AC; you rolled a 19+12, you may be a winner, is obvious ; you roll a total of 15, well you can assume a hit and if it turns out you need a 16 I'll just let you know that it missed)

[EricStratton]

For now, I would like to roll my own attack dice. If it turns into a big hassle (this being play-by-post) I don't have any real problems letting you do it. Of course, if I'm the only one that wants to roll my own, I won't be the bottleneck.

[Lycos]

The nature rolls were: 12 4 20 5 6 2. The perception rolls that found the tracks had 2 twenties, but otherwise weren't much better. I just rolled for the group to get it done quickly. Which reminds me -- When we get to combat, in a table game you'd all roll your own dice for the attacks. In play-by-post games, usually the GM rolls so that the rolls are "fair" (but the secure roller handles that nicely, and i trust you anyway), and because they know the target numbers. Do you want to roll your own, and just include your action and roll, and I'll post about whether you hit or not? Basically, you can even post the result of your action and roll based on what you think hit/miss, and if you're wrong we'll just ignore that part of the post :) (like, you get an 8, it probably didn't hit their AC; you rolled a 19+12, you may be a winner, is obvious ; you roll a total of 15, well you can assume a hit and if it turns out you need a 16 I'll just let you know that it missed)

ooc: I'm ok with you making the rolls. If that expedites things, then I really am for it.

And back to the situation, I am ok with Tess doing some scouting. If the caravan leader can loan us the use of the horses until we camp, that would be great. If she doesn't, tell her that it will effect how fast we can save lives. These are definitely not wolf tracks with some being 1' long.

And if they are wolves, that is one heck of a wolf that will probably swallow a person whole. *tongue firmly planted in cheek*

So, I think the plan would be to allow Tess to scout, and we move slowly with fighters on horse back until we feel confident that an ambush is not ahead of us.

[EricStratton]

"A week old? The rogue can run up there if she desires but it seems anything that passed through here is gone by now."

[DinbinFanfoom]

...Ravenna suggests that they are probably a week or older.Tess: "...which is probably the last time a caravan was through." ;)
Seriously? You guys have no perception or nature skill, and the rolls I grabbed were horrible.OOC: It's true! Most of us are either low int but with decent perception, or low perception and higher int. Will be funny to see how this dynamic plays out.
Which reminds me -- When we get to combat, in a table game you'd all roll your own dice for the attacks. In play-by-post games, usually the GM rolls so that the rolls are "fair" (but the secure roller handles that nicely, and i trust you anyway), and because they know the target numbers. Do you want to roll your own, and just include your action and roll, and I'll post about whether you hit or not?It'd probably flow faster if we announced our intent and you did the rolling, truth be told. I'm pretty sure we trust you, but if someone doesn't, just put their email address in the "player" field, no biggie. Since enough of us are newbs, maybe posting the rolls when a skill attempt is made would be a good thing... IE:

Dinbin: "Tess attacks the kobold with a regular dagger strike."
Attriel: "Your roll is n based on x + x. You are teh misszorz."
Dinbin: "OH. I thought z skill was based on y... it's based on t? Good to know."

Like I said, not because we don't trust you, but because I think we're at the point where it might be good for us to see the mechanics in action. And as I mentioned above, it'd help the game progress at a good pace if we just announce our intentions and you do the rolling, since you can do it at once and not wait for all the emails. If this is too much of a pain for you, let me know... I like your habit (above) of showing the rolls, since it helps us understand what skills affect what.

[EricStratton]

Since enough of us are newbs, maybe posting the rolls when a skill attempt is made would be a good thing... IE:

Dinbin: "Tess attacks the kobold with a regular dagger strike."
Attriel: "Your roll is n based on x + x. You are teh misszorz."
Dinbin: "OH. I thought z skill was based on y... it's based on t? Good to know."

Like I said, not because we don't trust you, but because I think we're at the point where it might be good for us to see the mechanics in action. And as I mentioned above, it'd help the game progress at a good pace if we just announce our intentions and you do the rolling, since you can do it at once and not wait for all the emails. If this is too much of a pain for you, let me know... I like your habit (above) of showing the rolls, since it helps us understand what skills affect what.
All this is why I wanted to roll my own. Thanks, Din. But if you, atty, want to break it down like that, I can handle you doing the rolling.

[DinbinFanfoom]

OOC: OK, since most of the group has indicated their plan and are OK with it and in the interest of game-flow and Tess was going anyway...

"Time to earn my keep..."

OOC: Tess will follow the tracks, though like any tracker (who happens to not know what she's tracking, heh) she'll not directly walk on them and make best use of sneak/cover/senses as she heads up to the ridge to check it out.

If she sees nothing suspicious, she'll come back down the road route to the caravan. If she DOES see something suspicious, she'll double back the way she came and inform the group.

[noptov52]

"I suggest we keep the caravan moving forward. Slowly. If we stop completely and stand around peering off into the woods all day, anyone watching us will know the jig is up and adjust their plans accordingly."

[attriel]

Ravenna does not seem inclined towards giving you the horses. "The horses? How far were you planning to go from the caravan? I think we'll keep the horses, and you can walk a little closer."

Tess starts her way through the brush, tripping over a broken wagon wheel after about 50' (Stealth: 4+9 ; not so hot). Waiting a few moments to see if anything responds to the noise she made, she decides that nothing is coming to investigate, and continues. As she reaches the treeline, she notes that she has come near to the trail again. There are a handful of fallen trees, evidence of some large storm in the last year or so. She hears something rustling the brush (Perception: 15+5), and sees a glint amongst the dead branches as something metal shifts with the light breeze.

Tess is still ~45' from the fallen trees and the noise/sight. The party is 100' behind her, and she is in the edge of the treeline.

[DinbinFanfoom]

OOC: Quick question: Are the fallen trees across the road, or just fallen in general? I've gotta admit, you've got me intrigued here.

[Lycos]

OOC: Quick question: Are the fallen trees across the road, or just fallen in general? I've gotta admit, you've got me intrigued here.


Paranoia will destroy ya
Paranoia will destroy ya
Paranoia will destroy ya
Paranoia
Paranoia

:D

[DinbinFanfoom]

Well, I asked because that wasn't clear in the preceding post... if they were across the road I'd smell "trap" but right now it's more like... "hmmm... interesting..." The broken wagon wheel makes me think an ambush is laying in wait against the road also. That is, the wagon wheel is from their last caravan-victim. But yes, I'm paranoid. :)

Either way, Tess will chance creeping closer to get a better look.

[Shiz]

atty has all our bonuses for pretty much everything on the character sheets, so I am happy with him rolling in this format, but I would like to see the rolls if possible. You can post them or email them.

Staying with the caravan until Tess reports back or sounds the alarm. If she does sound the alarm but cannot be seen returning to the group, Sarz will commandeer a horse (intimidate check or by force if that fails) and use the horse to get closer. However, he does not want to engage on horseback so he will dismount before the trees. Greatswords don't work well from horseback.

If applicable, Sarz is willing to spend an action point (note: Action Surge feat) to support Tess as fast as possible if necessary.

No, it is not about the nookie.

edit: Won't be back on tonight. Don't expect combat immediately, but if it happens, my response will have to wait.

[attriel]

OOC: Quick question: Are the fallen trees across the road, or just fallen in general? I've gotta admit, you've got me intrigued here.

The fallen trees are off the side of the road. You can see the rootball on one, where it looks like it was pushed over by a heavy storm maybe. And they've been down ... let's say about a season? The leaves, what you can tell from where you are, are dried out and withered.

Of course, you could move closer and get a better look?

[noptov52]

OOC:
Either way, Tess will chance creeping closer to get a better look.

Of course, you could move closer and get a better look?

I think he already decided to do that.

[Shiz]

Well, she.

[noptov52]

Well, she.

Point.

[DinbinFanfoom]

Staying with the caravan until Tess reports back or sounds the alarm.Oh, if she gets busted, you'll be hearing from her...

[Lycos]

ooc: Have we lost momentum on this idea? :D

[DinbinFanfoom]

OMG TEH GOBLINZ AET3D ATTRIEELL!ONE111!

[attriel]

OOC: Sorry, can't get on much over the weekend, and I was home Friday, so missed that day too.

The merchants continue along the road with the party walking alongside, having drawn their various tools after the tracks.

Tess, meanwhile, moves closer to the downed trees quietly (STEALTH 16 (7+9)). Seeing through the branches, she sees a couple of goblins crouched down watching the road.

Just as she gets a glimpse of the goblins, she hears a call from the right.

"AUGH! We've been spotted!"

"ATTACK!!!"

And now Tess is in combat! The party doesn't have a clear sight of her (trees, an' all, she's being sneaky), and the call doesn't carry quite that far.

Initiative:
Goblin A: 24 (17+7)
Tess: 24 (20+4)
More Goblins Here


Before Tess can react to the call, she feels a sword dig into her side (ATK: Natural 20, Max Damage, 14), tearing it's way through her armor and grinding along her ribs as it is pulled back out quickly.


Tess: 11/25 ; Bloodied


The rest of the party hears Tess' scream of pain, now well aware that there is something out there alright.

Full Initiative (minus goblins until the first time they act)
Goblin A: 24
Tess :24 (20 +4)
Sitara: 23 (18 +5)
Goater: 19 (19 +0)
Sarz: 7 (5 +2)
Flay: 7 (6 +1)
Turin: 3 (2 +1)

One full round to run through the brush and grass, so you could act next round, but at least get there this round

[Shiz]

I order the caravan to halt and charge the brush on foot shouting a challenge to draw as much attention as possible.

If I can spend an action point to get there faster and/or attack in the same round I will.

Wow are those some bad initiative rolls lol

[Lycos]

I need to close to within 5 before I get to use a beneficial spell for the group. So, I will be running full tilt. Let me know when I get there.

[Kiir]

Sitara moves forward as quickly as she can until she is in range to cast Eldrich Blast.

[attriel]

Sitara runs forward and then fires off her Eldritch Blast at it's maximum range, striking the creature gloating by Tess, blood on his blade (ATK 15 (11 +4), DMG 12). The beast stumbles backward.

Another creature steps forward and attacks Tess again, but is thrown off strike by the other creature (ATK: 11).


Goblin A: 24
Tess: 24
Sitara: 24
Goblin B: 22
Goater: 19
Sarz: 7
Flay: 7
Turin: 3

[Shiz]

NOPPY WHERE ARE YOU!?

[Zyzzyx]

Whoo... a'right, this IS an action show!


Oh, sorry... the audience will be quiet now. ;)

[Lycos]

Turin is heard saying...

"Feel the blood of Moradin in your veins woman!!!"

I'm casting Healing Word on Tess as soon as I get close enough.

[DinbinFanfoom]

"These are odds I cannot deal with!" Tess gasps.

She'll attempt to get back to the party as quick as possible. I realize this may incur some AoO's, but I'll have to rely on my quickness and Artful Dodger (+2 vs AoO's) to get me clear. I'm pretty sure I'm dead where I am.

[attriel]

Tess pedals back from the goblins and the brush, holding her side as she does so, succesfully evading the creature's strike (ATK 13), scurrying away until she feels she's put enough distance that the rest of her crew can join her before she gets skewered again.

Oops, thought you'd gone already. I forgot screaming in pain is a free action ;) You're about where Sitara will end up when she went immediately after you are going. *whistle*

[noptov52]

Der Goater attempts to close to melee range

I assume he won't make it in one turn?

[noptov52]

Also, as a Warlord I grant a +2 Power Bonus to initiative to myself and all allies within 10 squares who can see and hear me.

[Lycos]

Turin is heard saying...

"Feel the blood of Moradin in your veins woman!!!"

I'm casting Healing Word on Tess as soon as I get close enough.

ooc: (Tess), you'll need to use a healing surge when I can get this off.

[attriel]

Der Goater, hearing the scream, races forward, Sarz at his side (well, no, not really, but since there's no action between you, it's artistic license :p). When they reach the goblins, Sarz explodes further into a flurry of activity, striking out at the wounded goblin.

The large blade flows through with the momentum of their drive to reach the goblins, the blade slicing through muscle and bone, leaving the beast bloodied (ATK 23 (16+7), DMG 7 (4+3))

As the blood flies from Sarz' greatsword, Sarz and Goater notice that four more goblins have appeared, climbing apparently from the concealment of the fallen trees.

Goblin A: 24
Tess: 24
Sitara: 23
Goblin B: 22
Goater: 21
Goblins: 11
Sarz: 9
Flay: 9
Turin: 5

Thanks for the note, Goat. It's hard to remember whats on all the character sheets :o Reflected everyone's init up, except Tess and Sitara (because Tess is out of range and you can't really raise Sitara's Init above Tess's scream :o)

[noptov52]

After staring at my character sheet, I've noticed two more things:

1) I chose the feat "Group Insight" which grants allies within 10 squares +1 insight and +1 initiative (no limitations based on sight/hearing).

2) Apparently my second at-will power was not included for some reason. It is Furious Smash.

[EricStratton]

Ok, I'm not 100% sure where everyone is or where the four new goblins came from or how they are oriented. If they are close enough to me and to each other, Flay, having sprinted up with the rest of his adventurers after hearing Tess's screams, will cast Scorching Burst on the four new goblins. If they aren't close enough, I'll Scorching Burst the bloodied goblin (Tieflings get +1 to attack rolls against bloodied foes) assuming he can get it off without also hitting Tess. If he *can't* hit the bloodied goblin w/o hitting Tess, he'll...uh...I guess ready Scorching Burst for when a goblin does get into range w/o the risk of hitting a teammate.

[Shiz]

Atty, do we assume that you know our powers, i.e. that you have the PHB with you?

I also assume I did not use an action point there since no one else seemed to.

edit: on re-reading I think I did since I attacked and Der Goater did not. FYI, when I spend an action point, +3 to hit. Didn't need it this time.

How are we handling the map aspects of 4E? Do you assume we move in the best way to prevent AoOs?

[DinbinFanfoom]

OOC: Yes, without a map, it's a BIT hard to figure where we all are. Any way we can get something crude, even in ascii format within a code block, Atty?

Tess will receive her triggered heal (+6hp). Does she get any bonus recovered HP since that came from the cleric? IIRC, the podcasts had SOME surges triggered by others being incremented by healers skill. If not, no biggie.

Regardless of whether or not I've made it back to the group, I'll turn and throw a Shuriken (1d20+7 [dex][proficiency] vs AC, damage: 1d6+4 [rogue][dex]; range: 6/12) at the bloodied goblin. If I'm back to the group, I'll step behind the nearest tank. If not, I'll keep moving back to them.

"Catch this, greenie!" Tess yells as she looses one of her throwing stars at the goblin that had attacked her.

OOC: OMG! My first hit taken and it's a crit! OW!

[Shiz]

So to make this clear to everyone (and myself), there are two goblins near Tess, one bloodied by Sitara and myself and one unhit. A few squares away further into the copse, four new gobbies have emerged. Tess is shifting one square to throw her shuriken, hoping to get a kill and avoid an AoO from the bloodied Goblin A.

"Tess, get outta there. Der Goater, cover my flank!" Sarz points at the unhurt goblin and says "You are next, pumpkin-teeth!" marking Goblin B (-2 ATK if it goes after anyone but me.) He will use Sure Strike (at will, +2 ATK) next.

[EricStratton]

Tess is shifting one square to throw her shuriken, hoping to get a kill and avoid an AoO from the bloodied Goblin A.
Won't Goblin A get an AoO as soon as Tess moves? In other words, before Tess attacks?

[Shiz]

You are always allowed to shift one square free of AoO - at least that is what I remember from the PA podcasts. Remember the cleric backing up one square to use Lance of Faith in podcast 1 or 2? Same thing here.

[EricStratton]

You are always allowed to shift one square free of AoO - at least that is what I remember from the PA podcasts. Remember the cleric backing up one square to use Lance of Faith in podcast 1 or 2? Same thing here.
I remember from the podcasts that Jim was going to cast Scorching Burst but the DM said that would provoke an AoO. So he said he was going to move away from the mob that was next to him so he could cast Scorching Burst and the DM said that too would provoke an AoO.

/consults the player's guide

Page 290:

However, if you leave a square adjacent to an enemy, that enemy can make an opportunity attack against you.

[noptov52]

Is that under shift? The whole point of shift (afaik) is to be able to move slightly without provoking an attack of opportunity.

[Shiz]

Right. That is what "shift" means in 4E terms.

page 292: "If you shift out of a square adjacent to an enemy, you do not provoke an opportunity attack."

So Tess does not provoke an attack if she shifts to throw a shuriken, but she will if that shift becomes more than a shift.

[Lycos]

ooc: I'm also wondering where I am in the progression of events here.

I found a hex map

http://www.dndadventure.com/images/hex_grid.jpg

[Shiz]

Last. Atty still hasn't described you and Flay in round 1. Tess and I have pre-described round 2.

[Shiz]

Re: shift, on further reading, it seems like a shift counts as a move action so if Tess shifts and attacks, she is done. If she shifts and then retreats, she is free from AoO.

page 292: "You might find it useful to first shift away from an
adjacent enemy, then walk or run."

[EricStratton]

Re: shift, on further reading, it seems like a shift counts as a move action so if Tess shifts and attacks, she is done. If she shifts and then retreats, she is free from AoO.

page 292: "You might find it useful to first shift away from an
adjacent enemy, then walk or run."

Ahh, I missed the whole "shift" thing. Gotcha.

If she shifts and attacks, she still has her minor action left, right?

[Shiz]

Yes.

[Kiir]

Sitara stays where she is and casts Eldrich Blast again.

[attriel]

OK, to try to make things easier to visualize, as I still haven't found a particularly good mechanism for doing the maps yet.

Using Chess Algebraic notation (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Algebraic_chess_notation) to note the locations, and since 4e uses "squares" for ranges and such anyway.

The fallen trees are in d7-e6. Goblins A and B are in f6. Tess started in e5.

The four new goblins are in d6, having emerged from the fallen trees.

Tess is now in d2, Sitara is in c2. Sarz is in f5, Goater in e5.


Flay moves forward to stand with Sitara and summons a column of flames into the goblins. Centered just behind them to take all the goblins but not his own companions. (ATK 17, 21, 22, 10, 15, 15; DMG 6). The flames raze skyward, licking at the goblins who shriek loudly. As the pillar of fire fades down, some of the dried branches continue to burn. The beast that had injured Tess falls, slowly crisping on the ground.

Turin steps forward and summons Moradin's will to aid Tess. Tess, feeling much
refreshed (Surge+1d6 = 9HP), turns and flings a shuriken into one of the new particpants, her tormenter having fallen (ATK 23, DMG 9).

Sitara, deciding that this seems like a good distance from which to work, fires
another eldritch blast, targetting Goblin B (ATK 21, DMG 7). Reeling and bleeding, the goblin strikes at Sarz (ATK 23, DMG 4)



Tess: 24 (20/25)
Sitara: 23 (26/26)
Goblin B: 22 (-13) Bloodied
Goater: 19 (29/29)
Goblin 1-4: 11 (-6, -6, -6, 0)
Sarz: 7 (27/31)
Flay: 7 (26/26)
Turin: 3 (33/33)

Name: Init (HP Status) ; NPCs show how injured, PC's show current over total

[attriel]

I remember from the podcasts that Jim was going to cast Scorching Burst but the DM said that would provoke an AoO. So he said he was going to move away from the mob that was next to him so he could cast Scorching Burst and the DM said that too would provoke an AoO.


The problem there was that it was Thing 1, Jim, Thing 2. A single step in any direction leaves him next to something that can still attack him for the Opportunity Attack when he tries to cast

[DinbinFanfoom]

Based on Atty's description, Here is how I see the map... Phear my init rolls!

.. .. .. .. .. .. .. ..
.. .. .. ** .. .. .. ..
.. .. .. 14 ** AB .. ..
.. .. .. .. DG Sa .. ..
.. .. .. .. .. .. .. ..
.. .. .. .. .. .. .. ..
.. .. Si Te .. .. .. ..
.. .. Fl Tu .. .. .. ..

**=Trees

Te=Tess
Si=Sitara
Sa=Sarz
Fl=Flay
Tu=Turin
DG=Der Goater

A=Goblin A
B=Goblin B
14=Goblins 1-4 (minions, I assume)

Tess will shift right and back (to be beside Turin) and fire off another Shuriken at Goblin 1 (Was this the same one I did 9 damage to last round?)

[EricStratton]

I started this before DinBin's post but decided just to continue w/ it. It has Tess's updated move.

I believe Goater is up.

http://img.skitch.com/20080722-r6fs6cx3i1bet5gq41kef88m96.jpg
http://skitch.com/pat.george/txy6/picture-10

[DinbinFanfoom]

Nice, ES! Shadowed text and everything! As an aside, I started work on a mini-site that will allow a GM to create and store virtual grid-maps with sprite graphics and easily move chars around on it. Then he/she can publish a link to the map to the players. Mouse-overing a char/item will bring up details on it, of whichever type the GM wants players to see. But your map is just fine, ES. :)

[EricStratton]

Nice, ES! Shadowed text and everything! As an aside, I started work on a mini-site that will allow a GM to create and store virtual grid-maps with sprite graphics and easily move chars around on it. Then he/she can publish a link to the map to the players. Mouse-overing a char/item will bring up details on it, of whichever type the GM wants players to see. But your map is just fine, ES. :)
That is a very cool idea.

WRT to the text and whatnot I can take no credit. It's all Skitch (http://skitch.com/) (*great* Mac app).

[attriel]

Nice, ES! Shadowed text and everything! As an aside, I started work on a mini-site that will allow a GM to create and store virtual grid-maps with sprite graphics and easily move chars around on it. Then he/she can publish a link to the map to the players. Mouse-overing a char/item will bring up details on it, of whichever type the GM wants players to see. But your map is just fine, ES. :)

Sweet. I started working on something similiar a few years ago, but kinda dropped it by the wayside when i quit doing play-by-post

And I just haven't felt like drawing a grid and putting in pretty pictures and everything in gimp at the office :/

[Lycos]

Turin slowly moves forward and to the right (not using the movement as his action).

Turin speaks these words and as they are spoken everyone can feel their divine power being gathered and released as the name Moradin is spoken. "By the great halls of those who came before ME, our faith shall not waiver! And you goblins, you shall feel the wrath of MORADIN! "

Casting Lance of Faith on Sarz and his target, if it is still up when I get to cast. If it is not, then I will aid De Goater by targetting his target and giving him the benefit portion of the spell (+2 power bonus on his next attack).

[DinbinFanfoom]

I THINK with LoF, you can target the damage on any mob you want and the buff on any ally you want. It doesn't have to be a mob/ally locked in combat with each other. I could be wrong.

[noptov52]

Der Goater will use Viper's Strike on Goblin F

[Kiir]

Sitara decides to stick with what is working and shoots another Eldrich Blast off at a goblin (whichever one is still standing by then).

[noptov52]

Also, as a minor action Der Goater will use Inspiring Word on Tess. Tess can use a healing surge and regain an extra 1d6 hitpoints.

"That a girl, Tess!"

[Lycos]

I THINK with LoF, you can target the damage on any mob you want and the buff on any ally you want. It doesn't have to be a mob/ally locked in combat with each other. I could be wrong.

Yeah, but if Sarz kills off his target, De Goater could use the help more since it sounds like you only get the bonus if I target the other person's target.

From the description:
1d8 + Wisdom modifier radiant damage, and one ally
you can see gains a +2 power bonus to his or her next attack
roll against the target.

"The target" sounds like the mob I just cast against. That's my interpretation, atty, maybe you can confirm your interpretation as well.

[DinbinFanfoom]

Ah, OK, I misunderstood. Atty: the amount of chatter we generate will probably subside as we learn more as we go. Thanks for your patience with us! By the way, I'm having a lot of fun. Dispite blowing the recon almost completely, at least the caravan didn't get jumped, only the rogue! :D

[Shiz]

After Der Goater, I will Sure Strike (+2 ATK) Goblin B, who will remain my mark until dead.

[EricStratton]

I have no idea whose turn it is. Do we just shout out what we're going to do this round? I was kind of just going turn-by-turn, waiting to see what everyone else, and the goblins, do.

[DinbinFanfoom]

Technically, we go in order of initiative, which Atty posted. That said, you can do what you want, but for story purposes it's in init order, and Atty will resolve that. If any of your actions RELY on someone else doing something else first, better to wait until they go. At this particular point, we've all picked actions and are waiting on Atty.

[EricStratton]

Technically, we go in order of initiative, which Atty posted. That said, you can do what you want, but for story purposes it's in init order, and Atty will resolve that. If any of your actions RELY on someone else doing something else first, better to wait until they go. At this particular point, we've all picked actions and are waiting on Atty.
I haven't since I go after all the goblins. But if it's easier on atty, I can.

[Shiz]

Yeah, but if Sarz kills off his target, De Goater could use the help more since it sounds like you only get the bonus if I target the other person's target.

From the description:
1d8 + Wisdom modifier radiant damage, and one ally
you can see gains a +2 power bonus to his or her next attack
roll against the target.

"The target" sounds like the mob I just cast against. That's my interpretation, atty, maybe you can confirm your interpretation as well.

I agree with Lycos. Only someone attacking the target of the Lance gets the bonus.

[Shiz]

Also, as a minor action Der Goater will use Inspiring Word on Tess. Tess can use a healing surge and regain an extra 1d6 hitpoints.

"That a girl, Tess!"

She is at 20/25 hp before you do that.

[EricStratton]

BTW, those of us standing in the back - should we spread out some? I'm guessing none of the gobbies have AoE stuff but just in case?

[DinbinFanfoom]

She is at 20/25 hp before you do that.Yeah, I'm probably fine. I'm even holding off on second wind (self surging heal) because that'd waste a HP (26/25).

[Shiz]

BTW, those of us standing in the back - should we spread out some? I'm guessing none of the gobbies have AoE stuff but just in case?

Sarz would encourage a flanking, spreadout arrangement.

He shouts "Circle them, gang. Five goblins are no match for us and we want one alive to find out who is masterminding these raids. Burn the copse down if we have to."

[EricStratton]

"Burn the copse down if we have to."
Flay's cheeks get a bit red (well, red*der*) and mutters, "Um...I think I may have already started on that."

[attriel]

I haven't since I go after all the goblins. But if it's easier on atty, I can.

Generally, since I mostly post the actions during the day, it's probably best if everyone just posts their action when they feel like it, then I can just post the play-by-play whenever. Because most evenings I get the computer for maybe an hour. And dammit I wanna play something! ;) So, CoV vs you guys, you guys lose until I get to work in the morning! :)

[attriel]

Goater goes to strike at the goblin, but with his vision still blurred from the heat of the fiery blast set off by Flay mere feet in front of him (ATK: 1 ; Auto-miss).

The other goblins, still scorching, move forward to attack the two opponents before them. The first strikes Sarz, sword digging into him (ATK: 23; DMG 5). The second aims a blow at Goat, taking the still dazed warlord by surprise (ATK 19, DMG 7).

A second attack lands on Goat (ATK 24, DMG 3). The fourth goblin, unsinged by the flame and hearty lands a telling blow on Sarz (ATK N20, DMG 8).

Sarz, enraged by his assailants, Lashes out at the second of the original targets (ATK 27; DMG 9).

Flay, deciding that his last attack had worked well, and the downed trees were already burning anyway, summons forth another pillar of fire, again careful to miss his companions (ATK 11, 6, 19, 20, 21; DMG 10), again watching one of the beasts collapse, crackling like a suckling pig.

Turin calls upon Moradin's might and sends out a ray of light, striking one of Der Goater's opponents (Goblin 1, ATK 19, DMG 9). Tess quickly follows with a shuriken, but the growing flamelit background to her target throws her aim a little off and the projectile is lost amidst the brambles (ATK 12). Sitara sends out a blast of eldritch fire, taking the second of Goater's opponents off his hands (ATK N20, DMG 14).


Currently in Round 3

Tess: 24 (20/25)
Sitara: 23 (26/26)
--- Current Initiative
Goater: 19 (19/29)
Goblin 1-4: 11 (-24Blooded, -6, -30Dead, -10) (d5,E6,e5,e6)
Sarz: 7 (14/31) Bloodied
Flay: 7 (26/26)
Turin: 3 (33/33)

Stopping there so Goater can post his next action; wow, that was a lot at once !!!

[DinbinFanfoom]

Updated (I think this is right... A, B and 3 are dead)

.. .. .. .. .. .. .. ..
.. .. .. ** .. .. .. ..
.. .. .. .. 24 .. .. ..
.. .. .. .1 DG Sa .. ..
.. .. .. .. .. .. .. ..
.. .. .. .. .. .. .. ..
.. .. Si Te Tu .. .. ..
.. .. Fl .. .. .. .. ..

**=Trees

Te=Tess
Si=Sitara
Sa=Sarz
Fl=Flay
Tu=Turin
DG=Der Goater

A=Goblin A
B=Goblin B
1=Goblin 1
2=Goblin 2
4=Goblin 4

Uh, so is it a new round?

[attriel]

Yeah, that looks right ; and yes, we're in uh round 3 now (you got stabbed and ran away, you got healed and threw, you threw, so we're in 3; you've gone in 3, so you can post 4 if you want ; We're on Goater's action)

[DinbinFanfoom]

Cool. Naw, I'll wait my turn. Ish.

[noptov52]

ES' map had letters for the goblins (I attacked goblin F) and Dinbin's using numbers, which is a bit confusing. From what I can tell the goblin I attacked shifted a square, which means it invokes an opportunity strike because I used Viper's Strike (Effect: If the target shifts before the start of your next turn, it provokes an opportunity attack from an ally of your choice.)

If Goblin F correlates to 2 or 4, I want Sarz to make the opportunity take. If it is number 1, than Sitara instead (eldrich blast counts as a basic ranged attack).

As for my own action I'll use my encounter power Guarding Attack against Goblin 2, (Str vs AC, 2[W] + strength modifier, Until the end of your next turn, one ally adjacent to either you or the target gains a +2 power bonus to AC against the target?s attacks. Inspiring Presence: The power bonus to AC equals 1 + your Charisma modifier). If I hit, I'll give the 5 AC bonus (1 + 4 cha mod) to Sarz.

Der Goater looks at the Goblins in front of him "What is that smell? I've slept in junkyards that smell better."

[DinbinFanfoom]

ES' map had letters for the goblins (I attacked goblin F) and Dinbin's using numbers, which is a bit confusing.Sorry for the confusion, I just went by Atty's description. Goblin 1=C, 2=D, 3=E, 4=F.
From what I can tell the goblin I attacked shifted a square, which means it invokes an opportunity strike because I used Viper's Strike (Effect: If the target shifts before the start of your next turn, it provokes an opportunity attack from an ally of your choice.)Even if you miss?

[attriel]

[I]ES' map had letters for the goblins (I attacked goblin F) and Dinbin's using numbers, which is a bit confusing. From what I can tell the goblin I attacked shifted a square, which means it invokes an opportunity strike because I used Viper's Strike (Effect: If the target shifts before the start of your next turn, it provokes an opportunity attack from an ally of your choice.)


Sorry for the confusion. I was using letters vs numbers to distinguish between two sets of goblins for no discernible reason.

As for the Opportunity Attack, I was thinking you attacked Goblin B. Combined with -- do you get the effect if the attack misses? it's unclear. Since it's not part of the "Hit:" text, I suppose you're right and you maybe should.

So I'll post that fix before your action, too :o.

[Lycos]

I also posted that I was moving forward and to the right without taking an action last time. Does that get me a square or do I eventually get a square after so many rounds of moving without taking it as an action?

[attriel]

As the goblin moves to attack Sarz, having dismissed Goater as insignificant after his miss, he suddenly finds that Goater had missed intentionally to distract him, setting Sarz up for a wounding blow (ATK: 20, DMG 10)

Goater, working guardedly, lands a telling blow (ATK: 20, DMG 15), lending a bit of protection to Sarz.

One goblin strikes out at Goater, missing widely (ATK 8). The other two focus their attacks on Sarz. The one that goater assaulted cannot get past the warriors defenses while distracted by Goater's presence (ATK 17). The other, however, strikes cleanly (ATK 24, DMG 7)


Currently in Round 3

Tess: 24 (20/25) d2
Sitara: 23 (26/26) c2
Goater: 19 (19/29) e4
Goblin 1-4: 11 (-24Blooded, -21Bloodied, -30Dead, -20Bloodied) (d5,E6,e5,e6)
--- Current Initiative
Sarz: 7 (7/31) Bloodied f4
Flay: 7 (26/26) c1
Turin: 3 (33/33) e2

Sorry for missing your OppAttack setup, Goat. Hard to remember everything and find it in the sheets :/

[attriel]

I also posted that I was moving forward and to the right without taking an action last time. Does that get me a square or do I eventually get a square after so many rounds of moving without taking it as an action?

No, you are right. You are now in E2

[Lycos]

No, you are right. You are now in E2

In that case, I am just moving forward this time, aiming for Goat's back. And I cast Beacon of Hope. I'm working it so that I close first then finishing casting. Unless I'm wrong, it should cover everyone (including the goblins) except maybe Flay. Let me know if my calculations are wrong.

With his holy symbol out in front of him and walking forward with confidence that his god is with him, Turin speaks with a fire and brimestone energy, "By Moradin's Light... Feel his PRESENCE!"

As a reminder, Goat is +2 against the goblin that I hit with the LoF last round.

[Kiir]

Sitara decides that since Eldrich Blast has worked so well these past few times that she will use it once more at any of the remaining goblins.



(Eldrich Blast at any goblin that remains on my turn).

[Shiz]

Comeback Strike (Daily, 2W+str mod DMG) on 4. Let's me use a healing surge, which I will do.

[EricStratton]

Sorry about the letters/numbers confusion. I agreed w/ atty - the usage of both numbers and letters was silly. :lowrazz:

At the risk of putting too much space between himself and the healer, Flay takes a couple steps to his left (to a3) and casts Scorching Burst (At-Will. Burst 1, w/in 10. INT vs Reflex. 1d6 + 4 (INT mod)) again, this time targeting the remaining fallen trees at d7 (just in case and to get goblins 2 and 4). The corners of Flay's mouth twitch upward briefly.

ETA: The fact that Scorching Burst is "INT vs Reflex" I assume means that to hit I'd roll at 1d20 and add 4 (my INT modifier) to it. Is that right?

[Shiz]

Right.

Hmm. My Comeback Strike is going to be overkill, but so be it. Good flavor.

[EricStratton]

Having updated the map w/ the latest moves and whatnot, Flay would like to target d6 instead of d7. This will get the trees and all 3 goblins.

The map is updated w/ my latest (round 3) move but not my action (b/c I don't know what it's going to do). It is *not* updated w/ Turin's request to move up behind Goater or Sarz desire to attack Goblin 4.

http://img.skitch.com/20080723-tnyemx3tntay5xtf7fe274xa3f.jpg

[attriel]

Right.

Hmm. My Comeback Strike is going to be overkill, but so be it. Good flavor.

Are you sure you want to use a daily that you feel is overkill? Just asking, since you only get to do it once per day

[DinbinFanfoom]

Duh, I forgot that init is only rolled per encounter, not round. Dunno what I was waiting for...

Since my init for R4 is before Sitara, I'll toss another Shuriken (TH: D20+7 vs AC, Dam: 1d6+4) at the least damaged goblin (4?) hoping that will soften it up enough that the caster's AE's take them all out. I really gotta upgrade to a shortsword or something... my Shurikens can do a lot more damage than my daggers...

Edit: DOH! For some reasonly I hadn't listed the rest of my proficiencies in my character post. I also get +'s to dagger, sling, hand crossbow and shortsword. Looks like dagger (TH: 1d20+8 vs AC, Dam: 1d4+3) is a lot more attractive now. I couldn't figure out why I'd be better with a thrown weapon, but there it is. My TH is better with daggers/swords. Geez. MORE STABBY!

[Shiz]

Are you sure you want to use a daily that you feel is overkill? Just asking, since you only get to do it once per day

Right. Moving to F5 then Sure Strike against Goblin 4 (or 2 if 4 is dead from Flay's blast.)

[attriel]

Sarz rallies his strength and then throws his power into a deadly blow on the nearest goblin (ATK 19, DMG 12, Heal 7), dropping it's severed form amongst the crackling branches. Sensing that victory is near, Flaystrikes out with another pillar of flame, picking off the last two combatants (ATK 21, N20, DMG 10).

*** End combat, I'll post a new thread because this one is getting heavy :o

Tess: 24 (20/25) d2
Sitara: 23 (26/26) c2
Goater: 19 (19/29) e4
Sarz: 7 (14/31) Bloodied f4
Flay: 7 (26/26) a3
Turin: 3 (33/33) e2