Post/Author/DateTime	Post
Caterane 01-27-05, 07:10 AM	THE PILGRIMAGE (posted in size7 especially for LLMadCow :D) This is one of the first two test quests for Living Gladius. Neither Ash or I have a concrete final definition on how running a quest should work so we might learn new procedures as we go. You are all invited to participate, reading the quest, and give your 2 cp but please, DO NOT POST HERE (except for LLMadCow, and you Sir, try to keep the size lower than 7 heh). If you want to comment on the quest do so in the Tavern. PS: We know that the current player recruitment system isn't perfect and we will later have a seperate thread for such things but for now it should suffice. This is a Quest for Oz Savage (http://boards1.wizards.com/showpost.php?p=5180065) (sheet see below) who quests for a +1 composite (mighty+2) longbow, worth 2600 gp. This is just one of many reasons to go on a quest, see Ash's Restless Throughts (http://boards1.wizards.com/showthread.php?t=369012) for another Questgoal (PrC requirement). I will give you a complete breakdown of my quest preparation at the end of the quest (don't want to give anything away right now). You can use it as a guideline or propose a better way. I will also explain how we have to calculate treasure, CR, and XP for a given EL (Encounter Level). That's it for now. Enjoy! Questlog for The Pilgrimage: Fight against 6 goblins. Victory. No casulties. Items used: scroll of obscurring mist [1], (4x) scroll of cure light wounds [1], oil of magic weapon [1] Items gained: 6 small morningstars (48 gp), 6 small leather armors (60 gp), 6 small light wooden shields (18 gp), 12 small javelins (12 gp) and 10 silverpieces (total worth 139 gp). Fight against 3 woodelf skeletons and 2 woodelf zombies. Victory. No casulties. Items used: (2x) scroll of cure light wounds [1] Items gained: none (total worth 0 gp). Fight against an elven wizard. Victory. Shamira died. Items used: scroll of obscurring mist [1], 2 arrows, [Ma]Composite (mighty+2) Longbow (600) Items gained: Longsword (15), Longbow (75), Dagger (2), 20 arrows (1), Scroll of shield (25), scroll of mage armor (25), scroll of expeditious retreat (25), Wand of magic missiles [30 charges left] (450), Potion of cure light wounds (50), 50 Silverpieces (5) (total worth 673 gp). Quest Reward: +1 Composite (mighty+2) Longbow; 2400 Experience Points All rolls can be found here (http://krisinchico.brinkster.net/searchroll.asp?username=Quest-Oz#143942). Name: Quest-Oz
Caterane 01-27-05, 07:15 AM	Oz Savage looked like every other cleric in Gladius. Sure, his robes have a lighter color and he doesn't gnash his teeth everytime a commoner looks at him but asides from that... or is this true? For the untrained eye, yes, but few knew that unlike all other clerics he doesn't venerate a single deity but all good gods. So he wanders from temple to temple and offers his prayers to whatever god the house is dedicated to. He didn't realize that - despite the proximity he felt when sitting on one of the benches of the various Gladiosian Deities - there was still something missing. When he looked at the other cleric who have dedicated their life to a single patron he always felt a bit...strange. He didn't realize it. Until now. Just one week ago when he browsed the Gladiosian Library - still being repaired from the Terror Reign of Angosh and worse, his Fall and the time that followed - and found one very interesting book. It looked old, very old, but it roused his interest. "The Philosophy of Good", the title said. "Whatever that means" he mumbled back then but he soon find out that this book was exactly what he was secretly looking for all these years! The Philosophy of Good speaks about worshipping all good gods because every deity of light has a side that is worth venerating so restricting his faith to a single deity is like limiting his weapon arsenal to one weapon only (the book's example used flowers instead of weapons but to war-devoted Oz this didn't appeal as much). Oz learned a lot about the Philosphy that he had practised all the time and he gained confidence that he had chosen the right path. Still, this philosophy seemed to be extinct for centuries; a religion that was common in the past but looked down upon (in cleric circles) in the present. He savored reading the book, bathed in imaginations about how glorious it must have been back then, and hoped the book wouldn't be finished anytime soon... 12 Eleasias 1325 GR (3 days later...) Oz was hurrying through the streets of Gladius, a determined look on his face. His backpack was full of rations, waterskins, miscellaneous items and even scrolls, all things that he would need on the journey ahead. Of course it had to do with his latest favorite treasure, the book. He was just happy to read about the ancient Philosophy but he didn't expect to read about actual coordinates about a centre of worship! According to the maps, his destination was somewhere in the eastern part of the endless High Forest. He had to go there! "Journey" was too unworthy a word for what he was going to embark on. No, he was going on a Pilgrimage!
Caterane 01-27-05, 07:19 AM	Name: Oz Savage What better way to prepare for The Battle of the Ages than to fight in an arena? Gender: Male Race: Human Size: Medium, 5'7" tall, 153 Lb., 24 years old Brown Hair; Gray Eyes; Light Tan Skin Alignment: Chaotic Good Class: Cleric 3 (ECL 3) Experience: 4,400 Next Level: 6,000 Languages: Common & Celestial Str 14 +2 (6 Points) Dex 14 +2 (6 Points) Con 15 +2 (8 Points) Int 12 +1 (4 Points) Wis 16 +3 (10 Points) Cha 10 +0 (2 Points) Hit Points: 23 [(3d8 = 17) + 6 Con] AC: 22 (+8 Armor +2 Shield +1 Dex +1 Dodge), Touch 12, Flat 20 AC Bonus(es): [Shield of Faith +2 Deflection][Enlarge -2 Dex & Size] Init: +2 (+2 Dex) BAB: +2; Grap +4 [+4 Enlarge] [+5 enlarge] Speed: Land 20' (Base 30' Light|Medium|Heavy load 0/58/116/175, Heavy Armor) Saves: Fort: +6 (3 Cleric + 3 Con) [+2 con] Ref: +3 (1 Cleric + 2 Dex) Will: +6 (3 Cleric + 3 Wis) Attacks: [Ma]Mighty Composite Longbow +2 +5 Ranged, Dmg 1d8+2, Crit 20/x3, Range 110' [Enlarged]+2 Ranged, Dmg 2d6+2, Crit 20/x3, Range 110' [+3 enlarged] Longsword +5 Melee, Dmg 1d8 + 2, Crit 19-20/x2 [+4 melee] [Enlarged]+4 Melee, Dmg 2d6 + 3, Crit 19-20/x2 Combat Modifiers: Divine Favor +1 Luck Bonus on Attack and Damage Magic Weapon +1 Enhancement Bonus on Attack and Damage Skills (24 Cleric): +8 (6 Cleric) Concentration (+2 Con) +9 (6 Cleric) Craft: Armor (+1 Int)(+2 Tools) +9 (6 Cleric) Craft: Weapons (+1 Int)(+2 Tools) -6 (0 Cleric) Hide (+2 Dex)(-8 ACP) [-11 ACP; encumbered] +3 (0 Cleric) Listen (+3 Wis) -6 (0 Cleric) Move Silently (+2 Dex)(-8 ACP) [-11 ACP; encumbered] +7 (6 Cleric) Spellcraft (+1 Int) +3 (0 Cleric) Spot (+3 Wis) Feats: - Extend Spell - Human - Martial Weapon Proficiency: Longbow - 1st Level - Weapon Focus: Longsword - Cleric Bonus - Martial Weapon Proficiency: Longsword - Cleric Bonus - Dodge - 3rd Level Racial Traits: Human Size: Medium Speed: 30' Land Feats: 1 Extra at 1st Level Languages: Common Favored Class: N/A [U]Class Abilities: Cleric Weapon and Armor Proficiency: All Simple Weapons, All Armor, and with shields (except tower shields). Aura (Ex): Chaotic Good (moderate) Strength Domain: You can perform a feat of strength as a supernatural ability. You gain an enhancement bonus to Strength equal to your cleric level = +3. Activating the power is a free action, the power lasts 1 round, and it is usable once per day. War Domain: Free Martial Weapon Proficiency with deity’s favored weapon (Longsword) and Weapon Focus with the deity’s favored weapon (Longsword). Spontaneous Casting: Cure Turn Undead (Su): 3x/Day [1 left] Bonus Languages: Celestial, Abyssal, and Infernal. [you only have 2 languages; common and another one] Memorized Spells: 4, 3+1, 2+1 Orisons DC 13 Guidance, Guidance, Resistance, Resistance Level 1 DC 14 Magic Weapon, Shield of Faith, Shield of faith, Enlarge Person Level 2 DC 15 [Ext]Divine Favor, [Ext]Divine favor, Bull's Strength Equipment: 66 Lbs. Explorers Outfit (Worn, Free) Free Clerics Vestments (Worn, Free) 5gp *Full Plate, +8 AC, +1 Max Dex, -6ACP, Speed 20', (Worn, 50 Lbs.) 750gp *Heavy Steel Shield, +2AC, -2ACP (15 Lbs.) 10gp Silver Holy Symbol of Good (1 Lb.) 25gp Weapons: 24 Lbs. *Longsword, Damage 1d8 +2, Crit 19-20/x2 (Left Hip, 4 Lbs.) 7.5gp *Longsword, Damage 1d8 +2, Crit 19-20/x2 (Back, 4 Lbs.) 7.5gp [Ma]Mighty Composite Longbow +2, Damage 1d8 +2, Crit 20/x3 (Back, 3 Lbs.) 600gp 2 Quivers (40 Arrows) (Back, 6 Lbs.) Equipment Worn/Carried by Shamira: 46 Lbs. *Chain Shirt, +4 AC, +4 Max Dex, -2ACP (Worn, 25 Lbs.) 100gp 7 Quivers (140 Arrows) (Back, 21 Lbs.) Belt: 2.0 Lbs. Potion: Cure Light Wounds x2 (0.1 Lb. each) 100gp Scroll: Cure Light Wounds x6 (0.1 Lb.) 150gp [0 left] Scroll: Enlarge Person [CL3] x3 (0.1 Lb.) 225gp Scroll: Obscuring Mist x6 (0.1 Lb.) 150gp [4 left] Oil of Magic Weapon x6 (0.1 Lb. each) 300gp [5 left] Potion: Magic Fang x3 (0.1 Lb. each) 150gp Potion: Hide from Animals x6 (0.1 Lb. each) 300gp Weight carried: 92.0 Lbs. Equipment at Home: 0.75 out of 10 Quivers (15/200 Arrows) (3/30 Lbs.) 10gp Gold this round: 300gp Spent this round: 1,175gp Total Gold Spent: 3,245gp Gold Remaining: 955gp Other Possessions: Riding Dog - 150gp [Ma] Artisans Tools - 55gp [U]Allies http://home.arcor.de/caterane/Miscellaneous%20Pictures/Maja.jpg Guard Dog - Shamira (Female) Statistics of Riding Dog - Huskie Size: Medium Animal Hit Dice: 2d8+4 (13 hp) Initiative: +2 Speed: 40 ft. Armor Class: 20 (+2 Dex, +4 Natural, +4 Armor), touch 12, flat-footed 18 Base Attack/Grapple: +1/+3 Attack: Bite +3 melee (1d6+3) Full Attack: Bite +3 melee (1d6+3) Special Qualities: Low-light vision, scent Saves: Fort +5, Ref +5, Will +1 Abilities: Str 15, Dex 15, Con 15, Int 2, Wis 12, Cha 6 Skills: Jump +8, Listen +5, Spot +5, Swim +3, Survival +1* (+4 Track by Scent) Feats: Alertness, Track Notes: If trained for war, these animals can make trip attacks just as wolves do; trip has been copied directly from the wolf entry, with the word wolf changed to guard dog. Trip (Ex): A guard dog that hits with a bite attack can attempt to trip the opponent (+1 check modifier) as a free action without making a touch attack or provoking an attack of opportunity. If the attempt fails, the opponent cannot react to trip the guard dog. Tricks Known: Attack, come, defend, down, guard & heel.Fights results: Win(s) 1 / Loss(es) 1 Fight 1 - Win vs Rath; Pitlord Sindorin - +900xp, +900gp Fight 2 - Lose vs Keth'Arian'Kari; Pitlord Caterane - +300xp, +300gp Past Expenditures (Total 0gp): 0.25 Quiver(s) (5 Arrows) Fight 1 - Oil of Magic Weapon, 4 Arrows Fight 2 - Scroll of Obscuring Mist, Scroll of Cure Light Wounds, Potion of Cure Light Wounds, Oil of Magic Weapon, 1 Arrow
LLMadCow 01-27-05, 10:13 AM	Quietly, Oz slips into the Temple of Ehlonna. His white clerical robes, looking out of place compared to the deep forest green of the priests and priestesses of the temple, reveal the quieter side of Oz. He moves to the front of the temple and lights some incense. As he kneels down, Shamira quietly lays down beside him. "Ehlonna of the Forests, Goddess of the Woodlands, I kneel before you this morning, as I am about to begin my pilgrimage. My journey will take me deep within the High Forest, and I have come to seek your blessings, over both Shamira and myself. I offer up my time and energies, while I am on this quest. I seek an ancient temple, but I know that all along the way, I will be traveling through your land; as such that you are goddess over the woods, when I can, if there should ever be need, I will do my best to offer assistance to any of your followers who might be in need. When I come and when I go, I will respect the woods and do my best to leave them unharmed. Praise be unto Elhonna!" Oz quietly stands up and heads towards the exit of the temple, Shamira by his side. Once outside, Oz pats Shamira saying "Well girl, it is about time for us to be heading out." With that, Oz stops by his home, changes into something more appropriate while gathering his belongings for his trip.
Caterane 01-27-05, 11:15 AM	@all: LLMadCow has decided to leave Gladius and begin the Quest. His options were limited by his low level but at higher levels you might be able to gather information, cast commune, or scry. There are plenty of possiblilities to prepare for a quest. With such spells, the Questlord might even allow to buy new equipment and memorize new spells. Oz stood up and turned around but just as he was about to leave the temple of the forest goddess, a weak sparkle caught the corner of his eye. Oz turned around but could see nothing unusual [Intelligence check (12+1) = 13 vs Dc15, fails]. Without paying any second thoughts to that, he left the temple. After more than an hour, now armored Oz emerged fully prepared from his modest 1-room-house in Dock Ward but this was not the humble cleric who always walks around with his hands folded, no, this was someone else ...at least so the sailors and dock workers who knew him well, thought. Proud and intimidating, Oz walked down the street, and even some of the woman who had ignored him all the time took a second look at him. This was Oz the Warrior-priest! (Some later called him Oz the Hedgehog because of the 180 arrows that covered his back like an oversized haystack). Oz left through West Gate and soon lost sight of even the highest spires of the city; the sun was shining brightly but with his huge arrow stack on his back he always walked in shadow so that this was the perfect mix. Shamira - his guard dog - welcomed the trip away from the dirty streets, though she already missed the fishy smell of Dock Ward. Of course, Oz stopped once in a while at a small pond to fish something out of it. And so the days passed. The two friends were singing and howling respectively, enjoying the warm weather, and even the nights were filled with comfort at the camp fire. Surely, Ehlona smiled on the duo. Even dangerous waylayers and wandering monsters kept their distance (though this was because Oz' arrow-carrying silhouette resembled that of an ogre). It was on the 7th day of the journey that they reached the outskirts of the vast High Forest. The path led into the forest and the singing of the birds comforted the cleric so they walked on. Asides from the regular forest animal which shied away from them there was little trouble on the way. The next two days were as uneventful as the last ones though they left the path behind because it led into the wrong direction. Oz frequently checked the book and compared it to the map he borrowed from one of the mages that came from a village in the High Forest (Oz made a mental note to repay Uhmentarymster for his kind assistance). Another day passed uneventfully, and Oz went to his makeshift bed... Fire! Fire everywhere! Oz stands up and find himself within an inferno of heat. People are running around in panic. People he knows. His friends. He looks around. He is within some kind of temple but he does not recognize the signs on tapestries. The sound of steel against steel rings in his ears! Shouts everywhere. He does not understand the language. Some words are spoken in a most melodious language, others are just gutteral short words spoken in deep voices. Someone approaches him! An elf! "Ambarona'Amarth Endari Firith Ann-thannath Vesta Cu!". What is he saying? "Ann-thannath Vesta Cu!!" I don't understand you! The elf takes his hand and put a bow in my hands, wait, my hands! They are so soft and slender. My ears! They are pointed! What is this all about? Oz wakes up! He is covered in sweat and Shamira already stands worried next to him. "Just a bad dream, my friend" Oz said. The sun was already shining. "Time to get something to eat". Oz couldn't help but think about the dream, the fire, the elf. What was he saying? [Oz has no knowledge of either of the two languages spoken in his dream] When Oz and Shamira finished their meal, they readied themselves for the journey ahead. Oz knew they are very close to the spot on the map, perhaps mere hours but the map and the description in the book wasn't that detailed though one thing he knew for sure: if there wasn't anything wrong with the map, then he should reach his destination within the day. Brian, you are now entering the Combat Zone. From now on, you may cast spells anytime you want to but you cannot rememorize. You will have three encounters over the next 3 realtime weeks but they happen within one Gladius day so keep that in mind when casting spells or spending ressources! @ALL: The "Combat Zone" is not the Map where the fights take place. Combat Zone means, after 11 days of travel, Oz has reached the region where his 3 fights will take place within the next 16 hours. The first fight can be hours away, or just mere minutes. From now on, Oz can use any spell any time but they are used up after they are cast and expire normally, depending on their duration.
LLMadCow 01-27-05, 07:37 PM	As the two are walking through the forest, Oz [Listen Check - Auto success since this is my portion of the story] notices that there seem to be less birds singing in these deep woods. Keep your eyes peeled and your nose keen, girl. Oz pats Shamiras side as they walk along. I miss the birdsong, but I am sure they are quiet for a reason. Hmmm. Maybe that reason is me...? Oz takes a short break to adjust all of the straps on his armor. He tightens some and loosens others. Making sure everything fits perfectly is important for any warrior! Oz takes a qick glance through his pack and verifies where each scroll is, each potion and makes sure everything is secure. Once he is finished checking himself over, he also adjusts Shamira's barding. Are you doing alright, girl? She barks once and wags her tail in contentment. Now if anything jumps out at us, I need you to defend me so I can buy us some time. Okay? [Oz takes his time here - Taking 10 - to ensure the command] Oz also shifts one of the quivers from Shamira's back to his own. After assuring himself that everything is in place and ready, Oz draws his bow and moves forward into the woods.
Caterane 01-27-05, 07:56 PM	@all: Oz decided to walk on until something happens. Oz and Shamira walked through the heavy undergrowth but he wasn't sure if this was the right path as there was no indicator of a former civilization, least of all a centre of worship [Spot (6+3) = 9 vs Dc10, fails]. Parts of his clothes were torn from the dense forest around Oz but Shamira - now carrying the arrow-stack - didn't fare better. The faithful dog still limbed behind her master. It was after another hour that Oz heard a stick snap!! Right next to him in the undergrowth!! What is Oz doing?
LLMadCow 01-27-05, 08:05 PM	If this is soon to be combat, things go like this: Step 1 - Spot Check. Step 2 - Attack with bow if an enemy* has been spotted. Step 3 - Draw scroll of ObMist. Step 4 - Cast ObMist from scroll. Step 5+ - Waiting for further information. *Enemy: An enemy would be anything looking like it has immediate hostile intentions. If the 'enemy' is something that qualifies as a 'playable' race, attempt to speak to it to delay battle and discover intent and reason for attack.
Caterane 01-27-05, 08:10 PM	Oz turns around immideately and as if he knew where to look at he detected the source of the snapping: a young and scared fox tried to hide from the intimidating human and its oversized (and overburdened) dog. Realizing that he had been spotted, the fox, a race known for its intelligence, took flight, but not before throwing a pitying look at Shamira who carried three times her volume on her back [Oz: Spot (20+3) = 23 vs Dc15, success]. @all: this is an example for a fake encounter that should be put in from time to time else the player knows when to buff as soon as he hears something.
LLMadCow 01-27-05, 08:17 PM	It was just a fox. Oz smiles. Praise be to Ehlonna and all of her many woodland friends! Oz continues on, bow in hand.
Caterane 01-27-05, 08:24 PM	Finally. After more than a tenday of travel Oz and Shamira reached their destination: the center of worship the book talked about, at least what was left of it. Surrounded from all sides by high trees, a clearing opened before them. Along the perimeter of the clearing were several ruined buildings of an interesting style but Oz couldn’t extract any more information from them [No knowledge (architecture) skill]. Some were almost completely destroyed with only the foundation walls still standing, but others seemed to be slightly better in shape. Slightly. Oz’ heart fell upon seeing his hope of people who share his beliefs crumble like the ancient walls. It seems that the whole journey was for naugh… Please state your next action.
LLMadCow 01-27-05, 08:33 PM	Well, let's see what's left of this place. There has to be something interesting... Maybe we can figure out what happened here. [Oz will search the area, taking 20, looking for anything of interest. He will be listening for anything out of the ordinary. He will also try to be wary of traps, although he knows he is no rogue.]
Caterane 01-27-05, 09:07 PM	http://home.arcor.de/caterane/Quests/Ruined%20forest%20hamlet.jpg [Oz: spot (6+3) = 9] [Shamira: spot (4+5) = 9] [Goblin 1: hide (17+5) = 22] [Goblin 2: hide (11+5) = 16] [Goblin 3: hide (14+5) = 19] [Goblin 4: hide (16+5) = 21] [Goblin 5: hide (4+5) = 9] All Goblins are 20-60 ft away so Oz and Shamira take an additional penalty to their spot checks. Just as Oz and Shamira started to search the area, several ranged weapons appeared out of nowhere, and flew into their direction... Surprise Round: [Goblin 1: javelin (15+5) = 20 vs Ac20 (FF), success; Damage (1d4) = 3] [Goblin 2: javelin (17+5) = 22 vs Ac20 (FF), success; Damage (1d4) = 2] [Goblin 3: javelin (2+5) = 7 vs Ac20 (FF), fails] [Goblin 4: javelin (16+5) = 21 vs Ac20 (FF), success; Damage (1d4) = 1] [Goblin 5: javelin (20!), critical threat (12+5) = 17 vs Ac20 (FF), not confirmed; Damage (1d4 = 3)] Savage (+9/+9), 14/23 hp; flatfooted Shamira (+9/+8), 13/13 hp; flatfooted Goblin 1 (+3/+9), 5/5 hp Goblin 2 (+3/+10), 5/5 hp Goblin 3 (+1/+11), 5/5 hp Goblin 4 (+6/+14), 5/5 hp Goblin 5 (+13/+14), 5/5 hp Goblin 6 (-5/-6); 5/5 hp The aim of the goblins - for goblins they were - was remarkable! From the five thrown ranged weapons four found a way through Oz' fullplate and shield, and the wounds began to bleed. http://home.arcor.de/caterane/Quests/Ruined%20forest%20hamlet-SurpriseRnd.jpg Initiative: 20: Goblin 1 (19+1) 19: Goblin 4 (18+1) 17: Oz (15+2) 8: Goblin 5 (7+1) 7: Goblin 2 (6+1) 6: Goblin 6 (5+1) 2: Goblin 3 (1+1)
Caterane 01-27-05, 09:16 PM	Oz was still surprised when the first wave stopped. The first goblins were already grabbing new javelins and throwing at the cleric before Oz could react but fortunately they didn't hit this time. Round 1: [Goblin 1: javelin (7+3) = 10 vs Ac20 (FF), fails] [Goblin 4: javelin (14+3) = 17 vs Ac20 (FF), fails]
LLMadCow 01-27-05, 09:48 PM	We can't be having this! Oz deftly draws a scroll and begins casting... Step 1 - Cast Obscuring Mist, Shamira should continue defending; randomly declare a Dodge Buddy from closest enemies. Step 2 - CLW from scroll. Step 3 - Oil of Magic Weapon - Bow. Step 4 - Attack: Round 1 - Step out and shoot; Round 2 - Shoot and step back. The purpose is so that half of the time Oz will have the concealment. Conditional: If Oz or Shamira drops below 8HP, be sure to take a round to heal while in the mist. If the Goblins close for melee, new tactics will follow.
Caterane 01-27-05, 10:02 PM	The goblins are scarred about the unnatural fog and throw their javelins at the spot where the cleric last stood. [Goblin 2: javelin (20!), critical threat (14+3) = 17 vs Ac22, not confirmed; Miss chance (50%) = 65%, pass; Damage (1d4) = 4][Goblin 3: javelin (5+3) = 8 vs Ac22, fails][Goblin 5: javelin (9+3) = 12 vs Ac22, fails][Goblins: move silently (6+5+3), (14+5+3), (9+5+4), (19+5+3), (20+5+3), (2+5+11)][Oz: listen (7+3) = 10 vs Dc14 (lowest roll), fails] Oz (+9/+9), 10/23 hp; obscurring mist Another javelin found its mark just and Oz cry was enough to convince the other goblins to throw on. More javelins were thrown into the mists as the clanks against Oz armor indicated but none hit after the first one. Still, the cleric seems to be in trouble. Even worse, Oz has no idea about the whereabouts of the goblins. He also had to drop his bow in order to cast a spell.
LLMadCow 01-27-05, 10:07 PM	Argh. It appears that everyone is throwing right here, so... Oz steps to the side ...hopefully they will miss me now. Oz smiles at Shamira and she anxiously looks around waiting for a sign of nearby enemy. Now about this bleeding... Oz casts Cure Light Wounds, stemming some of the blood loss. Oz 5' Step away from the majority of goblins and cast CLW from scroll.
Caterane 01-27-05, 10:13 PM	Oz has no idea where these little critters went but he knew that he had more pressing matters, or wounds in this case, to attend to. He draws a scroll of cure light wounds and heals [Oz: cure light wounds (2+1) = 3]. Just to make sure the goblins won't hit him again he made a 5ft step to the side, not that it mattered with his squeeking fullplate [Oz: move (8-6) = 2] Oz Savage 13/23 hp; obscurring mist
LLMadCow 01-27-05, 10:21 PM	That's not enough. I've gotta heal some more. Keep looking, girl. Oz will continue to heal.
Caterane 01-27-05, 10:28 PM	Oz still feels the pain and hesitates to step out of the mist and engage the goblins. He knew, another lucky hit or two might bring him down, and though he had few knowledge skills he knew all to well what goblins tend to do with their victims, especially tasty humans! He draws another scroll of cure light wounds and tries to stem the bloodloss [Oz: cure light wounds (1d8+1) = 3] Oz Savage 16/23 hp
LLMadCow 01-27-05, 10:33 PM	Ehlonna, in these - your woodlands, I ask for protection. [Oz casts Shield of Faith from memory.]
Caterane 01-27-05, 10:38 PM	Oz Savage was just about to draw another of the precious scrolls when he realized that he should rather do something against the goblins. With a prayer to the woodland goddess he prepared for the coming battle, and his pure faith alone worked like a shield that blocked every blow. Oz has completely lost sight and sound of the goblins. Wether this was a good or a bad thing has yet to be found out. Oz Savage: 16/23 hp; obscurring mist (4/10), shield of faith+2 (1/30)
LLMadCow 01-27-05, 10:45 PM	Ehlonna, I gave my word to help protect your forests, so let's do this. And if there happen to be any of your followers nearby, I would welcome the company! [Oz casts Bull's Strength.]
Caterane 01-27-05, 10:52 PM	Shamira reminded him with a growl that there was indeed a follower of Ehlona right behind Oz. Still, the goddess or whoever answered to Oz prayers heard him and as soon as the last sylable left his lips, Oz felt new unnatural strength infusing him from the ground! The roots themselves empowered the cleric with their spirit and lend him their power. Oz Savage: 16/23 hp; obscurring mist (5/10), shield of faith+2 (2/30), bulls strength (1/30)
LLMadCow 01-27-05, 11:52 PM	Well, if I am going to do this, I might as well do it right. Oz begins applying Oil of Magic Weapon to his longsword. Oz will apply Oil of Magic Weapon to his longsword.
Caterane 01-28-05, 11:18 AM	Oz - assured that this was the BBEG - spent one ressource after another though this time he needs two hands to apply oil to the (sheathed) longsword, and he needs to store his shield away first, then draws his longsword and the oil, and finally pours it over his shiny sword which immidetely shines a bit brighter even. Oz Savage: 16/23 hp; obscurring mist (7/10), shield of faith+2 (4/30), bulls strength (3/30), magic weapon [longsword] (1/10)
LLMadCow 01-28-05, 01:06 PM	Oz Glances over at Shamira. Are you ready to go, girl? Shamira looks excited to do something other than just sit in the mist. Well, let's get this show on the road. [Oz will grab his shield and head out of the mist, declaring a dodge buddy against the first enemy he sees, or the biggest if there happens to be any new baddies, and head out to destroy ugly little goblins.]
Caterane 01-28-05, 01:45 PM	Oz re-equips with his shield and walks out of the mist, Shamira following closely. His bow was still lying somewhere within the fogbank but he had to do without it for now. As soon as he emerged from the mists he got into a battle stance but couldn't see anything except overgrown ruins and high trees. Sensing a disturbance in the force, he moves back into the savety of the mist. http://home.arcor.de/caterane/Quests/Ruined%20forest%20hamlet-Rnd8+9.jpg [Goblins: hide (9, 21, 19, 17, 7, 8)][Savage: spot (1+3) = 4, fails vs all] Oz Savage: 16/23 hp; obscurring mist (8/10), shield of faith+2 (5/30), bulls strength (4/30), magic weapon [longsword] (2/10)
LLMadCow 01-28-05, 01:53 PM	This just isn't my day. Oz takes a quick moment to think. Okay, new plan. Shamira, I want you to attack whatever you can find. Attack! Attack! Got it? I'll be right behind you. [Oz instructs Shamira to attack. He will lead her 20' west, staying as close as possible and attack whoever appears.]
Caterane 01-28-05, 02:02 PM	Oz and Shamira leave the mist again and stand on the same spot where they were standing 6 seconds before with the difference that Oz gives the attack command to the dog. Shamira can't see anything though and the word 'seek' just doesn't belong to her vocabulary so she just pants back at Oz. Oz Savage: 16/23 hp; obscurring mist (9/10), shield of faith+2 (6/30), bulls strength (5/30), magic weapon [longsword] (3/10)
LLMadCow 01-28-05, 02:05 PM	Oz moves forward another 20' ready to attack any who appear. [Oz will move forward 20' and look for any attackers; if he sees no attackers, he will stand his ground for a round.]
Caterane 01-28-05, 02:16 PM	Oz moves another mighty 20ft forward, and - glad that he had just covered such an immense distance - readies to attack anyone who might take advantage of his reckless advance... http://home.arcor.de/caterane/Quests/Ruined%20forest%20hamlet-Rnd10.jpg Fortunately, nothing comes forth. Oz Savage: 16/23 hp; obscurring mist (10/10), shield of faith+2 (7/30), bulls strength (6/30), magic weapon [longsword] (4/10), ready action
LLMadCow 01-28-05, 02:21 PM	Oz double moves forward 40', with one part of the move being a diagonal 5' north. He looks around, ready to attack. [Oz will move forward 40' and look for any attackers; if he sees no attackers, he will stand his ground for a round.]
Caterane 01-28-05, 02:35 PM	Just as Oz left the court of the ruined building with the campfire, he saw three goblins left and right of him who have waited for this opportunity to gang him up. http://home.arcor.de/caterane/Quests/Ruined%20forest%20hamlet-Rnd11a.jpg http://home.arcor.de/caterane/Quests/Ruined%20forest%20hamlet-Rnd11b.jpg The goblins charge headlong towards the cleric and his companion and go for a quick kill. Shamira could fend of the first goblin with nothing but a growl, which had an impact on the second goblin's attack on Oz aswell. But then, a third goblin stepped up from behind and hit Oz in the back with his small rusted morningstar. [Goblin 1: morningstar (12+2+2(charge)) = 16 vs Ac20, fails][Goblin 2: morningstar (6+2+2) = 10 vs Ac22(FF), fails][Goblin 3: morningstar (17+2+2+2(flanking)) = 23 vs Ac22(FF), success; Damage (1d6) = 2] As if that wasn't enough, Oz heard more goblins approaching from the east. Oz Savage: 14/23 hp; shield of faith+2 (8/30), bulls strength (7/30), magic weapon [longsword] (5/10) Goblin 1: 5/5 hp; charged Goblin 2: 5/5 hp; charged Goblin 3: 5/5 hp; charged
LLMadCow 01-28-05, 02:58 PM	Oz viciously attacks the goblin south of him. DIE, you fiend! Oz is 'wearing his battle face' and looks menacing. [Oz declares dodge against the north, attacks to the south, and Shamira should be attacking by now. If the last Handle Animal command was successful, she is attacking. If the last was not successful, she is attacking from following the defend command.]
Caterane 01-28-05, 03:12 PM	Oz was finally in his element. Combat. He lifts his temporarily enchanted longsword high in the air and smite down on the weak creature, and almost cleaves it in two [Oz: longsword (6+5+1(mw)+2(bulls)) = 14 vs Ac13(charged), success; Damage (1d8+5) = 11]. Shamira attacks the first goblin who was still shaken from the growl which was more than enough distraction the dog needed to tear the goblins arm off. This shock was too much for it and the green creature dropped bleeding to the grass [Shamira: bite (15+3) = 18 vs Ac13(charged), success; Damage (1d6+3) = 9]. Just as the two were about to relax, new goblins came into view. "GRAAHK!! GRAAHK!!" (common: 'blood') Of the first trio, only the second goblin, Oz' dodge target, was still standing. Perhaps it was because of the warcry of his approaching comrades, or perhaps it was fear but whatever it was it spurred him to new heights and resulted in a viscious hit against Oz' kneecap [Goblin 2: morningstar (20!), critical threat (3+2) = 5, not confirmed; Damage (1d6) = 4] http://home.arcor.de/caterane/Quests/Ruined%20forest%20hamlet-Rnd12.jpg Savage: 10/23 hp; shield of faith+2 (9/30), bulls strength (8/30), magic weapon [longsword] (6/10) Shamira: 13/13 hp Goblin 1: -5/5 hp; dying Goblin 2: 5/5 hp Goblin 3: -7/5 hp; dying Goblin 4: 5/5 hp Goblin 5: 5/5 hp Goblin 6: 5/5 hp
LLMadCow 01-28-05, 03:35 PM	Shamira! Oz points at the Goblin north of himself. Oz then turns and charges one of the southern goblins. You miserable little beasts. [Oz declares a new dodge buddy with the Goblin that is 5 south and 3 east. Oz points Shamira towards the goblin who most recently attacked him; she is still following the defend command and should attack since this is the most recent goblin to attack Oz. Oz will charge the Goblin who is 5 south and 1 east. Shamira should follow Oz if her goblin goes down.]
Caterane 01-28-05, 03:54 PM	The faithful dog complies and does his best to finish off the nasty goblin but her bite was blocked by a small wooden shield [Shamira: bite (11+3) = 14 vs Ac15, fails]. Oz meanwhile turns his back towards the goblin in melee and prepares to charge the new goblins from the south but the healers who later raised his corpse weren't so sure if that was the best move. A morningstar sent him stars [Goblin 2, AoO: (19+2) = 21 vs Ac21(charge), success; Damage (1d6) = 4]. Perhaps this is also an explanation why Oz didn't hit the scarred to the bone and standing open mouthed goblin at the end of his charge [Savage: longsword (3+5+1(mw)+2(bulls)+2(charge)) = 13 vs Ac15, fails]. http://home.arcor.de/caterane/Quests/Ruined%20forest%20hamlet-Rnd13.jpg The other goblins were spurred on by that spectacle and attacked with renewed vigor! [Goblin 2: morningstar (20!), critical threat (7+2) = 9 vs Ac20, not confirmed; Damage (1d6) = 3][Goblin 4 has double moved to Shamira][Goblin 5: morningstar (16+2) = 18 vs Ac21(charged), fails][Goblin 6: morningstar (10+2) = 12 vs Ac22(charge,dodge), fails] and one of the goblins managed to hit Shamira. Savage: 6/23 hp; shield of faith+2 (10/30), bulls strength (9/30), magic weapon [longsword] (7/10) Shamira: 10/13 hp Goblin 1: -6/5 hp; dying Goblin 2: 5/5 hp Goblin 3: -8/5 hp; dying Goblin 4: 5/5 hp Goblin 5: 5/5 hp Goblin 6: 5/5 hp
LLMadCow 01-28-05, 03:59 PM	Olidamarra does not smile on me today. No time for luck, just time to win. [Oz continues to fight the two goblins nearest him. Shamira should be fighting her two.]
Caterane 01-28-05, 04:09 PM	Oz and Shamira were bleeding from several wounds but they fought on, knowing that no Nimbus would protect them here in the wilderness. This knowledge came a bit late but better later than never, and so while Oz slashes his longsword across a goblin torso, Shamira tore a piece of throat out from a very vital goblin body part [Oz: longsword (16+8) = 24 vs Ac15, success; Damage (1d8+5) = 11][Shamira: bite (12+3) = 15 vs Ac15, success; Damage (1d6+3) = 6]. There were still two goblins left and one hit might be enough to book a journey to the Harvester. Fortunately, it seemed the Seraph of Death won't get a soul this day [Goblin 4: morningstar (9+2) = 11 vs Ac20, fails][Goblin 6: morningstar (15+2) = 17 vs Ac24, fails] Oz and Shamira each have one goblin left Savage: 6/23 hp; shield of faith+2 (11/30), bulls strength (10/30), magic weapon [longsword] (8/10) Shamira: 10/13 hp Goblin 1: -7/5 hp; dying Goblin 2: -8/5 hp; dying Goblin 3: -9/5 hp; dying Goblin 4: 5/5 hp Goblin 5: -2/5 hp; dying Goblin 6: 5/5 hp
LLMadCow 01-28-05, 04:15 PM	You WILL DIE! [Oz will continue to fight his dodge buddy. Shamira will fight her goblin.]
Caterane 01-28-05, 04:24 PM	Oz didn't know how much longer he could hold out against the goblins but he knew he must fight on, else he'd never get behind the secret of the book, and with a warcry to Heironeous he drove his longsword into the goblins stomach [Oz: longsword (10+8) = 18 vs Ac15, success; Damage (1d8+5) = 7]. Shamira was almost equally successful... her jaw closed around the goblins left leg which not only caused a serious wound but also caused him to fall prone [Shamira: bite (14+3) = 17 vs Ac15, success; Damage (1d6+3) = 5][Trip: Shamira (4+1) = 5 vs Goblin (5-3) = 2, success; Goblin is prone]. The last goblin had no strength left and the world already began to blur around him. With a last desperate act he tried to bat away the huge maw but that wasn't more than a feeble swat against a fly [Goblin 4: morningstar (6+2-4(prone)) = 4 vs Ac20, fails], which even took the last energy out of his small body. The world turned black. Savage: 6/23 hp; shield of faith+2 (12/30), bulls strength (11/30), magic weapon [longsword] (9/10) Shamira: 10/13 hp Goblin 1: -8/5 hp; dying Goblin 2: -9/5 hp; dying Goblin 3: -10/5 hp; dead Goblin 4: -1/5 hp; dying Goblin 5: -3/5 hp; dying Goblin 6: -3/5 hp; dying
LLMadCow 01-28-05, 04:33 PM	Finally. Oz raise his hands into the air, arms spread apart. Thank you. Oz quickly draws a scroll of healing and heals himself some. After healing some, he checks thr ruins a little more and creamates the goblins. [Oz casts CLW from scroll. Oz will then confirm there are no more enemies. He will gather the dead goblins into a circle where he can safely cremate their ashes. When he piles them up, he will also check for anything of value - coins, stones, anything of masterwork quaility, etc. That will be set aside and bundeled in some cloth, perhaps some left over goblin clothing. Once secure and safe from burning down the forest, he will pile them up, say some prayers and light them on fire. He will then move on once he is sure the fire isn't going to hurt anything else. He will also check that circle of stones in the middle of the ruins. Finish with the ruins.]
Caterane 01-28-05, 04:41 PM	Oz speaks the divine runes on the scroll which - now that he wasn't as pressed - were more effective [Oz: cure light wounds (1d8+1) = 7]. After retriving his bow, he piled up the goblins and made a second pile with their deadly equipment. All in all, he finds 6 small morningstars (48 gp), 6 small leather armors (60 gp), 6 small light wooden shields (18 gp), 12 small javelins (12 gp) and 10 silverpieces (total worth 139 gp). What do you want to keep? Savage: 13/23 hp
LLMadCow 01-29-05, 05:57 AM	Oz quitely takes the Goblin equipment and bundles it all together. He pockets the silver and carefully hides all of the equipment under some brush, with the intent of gathering it on the return trip. Oz takes a moment to heal a little more. [Oz will use 1 more CLW from scroll. Oz will hide the goods, pocket the silver and say a quick prayer of thanks. Time to move on.]
Caterane 01-29-05, 08:23 PM	As Oz draws another scroll of cure light wounds he realizes that his tube is a bit lighter than at the beginning of the journey, and he must travel the whole way back. Not wasting time with longterm plans, he activates the runes on the parchment which instantly closed some open wounds and removed red bruises [Oz: cure light wounds (1d8+1) = 7]. He was relived that the pain finally ceased but that emotion of relief didn't last long. Shamira, the dog that now not only carried 200 arrows but also the whole goblin armory, began to growl. Wether that growl was from the burden or the figure that stood some 300 ft away, one cannot say but at least it made Oz aware of the newcomer. He (at least Oz guessed it was a he) was still too far away to be identified but he had a rather slender build than a bulky one. Oz Savage: 20/23 hp
LLMadCow 02-03-05, 02:51 AM	For the love of....! Oz seemed a bit distraught. With his bow stored away, shield at the ready and a sword in hand, Oz stands guarded. Stranger, what are your intentions? I have come to the Great Forest to find truths. I am not looking for battle. Oz tries to size up his potential opponent, but at the same time he is hoping that this is a more pleasant visitor. [Oz is ready to battle if need be. Dodge Buddy - Big Guy.]
Caterane 02-04-05, 03:12 PM	The stranger walks slowly and apparently calmly closer but Oz' trained eye realizes that he or she chooses his path well [Oz: spot (15+3) = 18]. There is always a cover or heavy undergrowth in their direct path to make sure he can delay a sudden attack against him. As the figure comes closer, Oz can now make out his outfit which is a simple brown robe with a hood pulled over the head. The stranger is not tall, perhaps a bit over 5ft and he seems a lightweight on top of that. The hands are folded infront of him and are not visible as they disappear in the sleeves. About 100ft distance, he stops. Suddenly, the stranger speaks with a soft and melodious voice that seems to be more sung than spoken but the language is common, not without an accent though. "Neither do I but I must know your intention. What leads you here to this place, stranger?"
LLMadCow 02-05-05, 05:03 AM	The Philosophy of Good has brought me to the High Forest, and I am seeking to uncover some truth about what was written within a tome I once read. So far, I have discovered that Goblins run amok through these old ruins and that strangers make my dog growl. Oz pauses and pats Shamira on the head. So, enough about me, what brings you here? [Oz is cautiously observing the stranger. Oz will use Spellcraft to try to discern if there is anything mystical going on that he should have noted.]
Caterane 02-05-05, 05:32 AM	Oz narrows his eyes and focuses his mind inward to see things that are not obvious to the eye but the last fight and the possible thread infront of him, distracts him too much. Either that, or there are no auras on the stranger. "The Philosophy of Good? What do you know about the Philosophy of Good? And what are these truths you try to find? If your intentions are pure, I won't mean any harm to you but know that not I am the stranger in this land!"
LLMadCow 02-05-05, 05:58 AM	I know that it has been said that one can appreciate the beauty inherent to all flowers, and not restrict themselves to gazing upon only one. I know that I walk a path that few follow these days; I am looking to a time long past for insight and inspiration as to where my path might lead. The Philosophy of Good has been within my heart since well before I had a name for it. Now that I have a name for what my heart holds to be true, it has brought me here to seek out knowledge and, perhaps, others of like mind and heart. Oz pauses and looks around. I think that about covers it. Unless you wish to know anything more ... like the name of my mother, or what land I hail from ... either way, I am sure you know enough of me and my intentions.
Caterane 02-05-05, 06:14 AM	http://home.arcor.de/caterane/Quests/A'Seras.jpg The stranger walks closer and while doing so pulls his hands out of his sleeve which were holding a scroll that quickly vanishes inside one of the robe's pockets. He also pulls his hood back so that you can see his face ...the eternally young face of an elf! He stops at 20ft, and holds out his hands; his eyes are locked on you as if trying to take in every inch of your body, his facial expression indicates heavy thinking. "My father named me A'Seras I'indra" he says in common with a heavy elven dialect - the only dialect that actually enrichens a language; any language [except for W33t Celestial perhaps, right Einzelgaenger?] "I am a guardian of this sacred place. Sheath away your sword and let us talk in peace"
LLMadCow 02-05-05, 06:25 AM	Oz feels comfortable. He looks to Shamira for some sign that she seems to be trusting the stranger before them. With a feeling of relief and comfort, Oz sheaths his sword and lets his shield down to his side, although still holding the shield. Fair enough. If you are the guardian of this place, then can you tell me what happened here ... and why were the goblins waiting in ambush? [Oz waits for a reply. If Shamira gets jumpy, Oz will be weary.]
Caterane 02-05-05, 06:42 AM	http://home.arcor.de/caterane/Quests/A'Seras.jpg "This was a place of love and peace, and unity. Here, every flower was looked upon, not just one. But like so many other beautiful things, creatures who cannot comprehend the serenity of this place made it to what it is now. I am the last guardian of this place. But I cannot fight off all our enemies. From time to time a band of orcs, goblins, or other savage creatures come here. They are no threat to me but if I eliminate them, more will come so as long as they just seek shelter here and move on, I leave them alone." While A'Seras speaks, he slowly walks to some overgrown stones, and motions you to join him. "What is your name, human?"
LLMadCow 02-05-05, 06:47 AM	Oz walks over to the stones. I am Oz Savage, but please just call me Oz. It is not my intention to offer insult to the gods, by wearing my armor in such a place as this, but I have journeyed far and my robes would have been ill-suited in such a battle as the one I just had. Are we safe for now? You would know the woods far better than I.
Caterane 02-05-05, 06:52 AM	"Sweet water and light laughter, Oz Savage. Have no fear. The goblin band was the only one here." He points at your holy symbol. "You are a cleric but I do not recognize the symbol. Which god do you venerate?"
LLMadCow 02-05-05, 07:00 AM	I do not worship one god. I serve the greater good of all. When people are in need, I do what I can to help. I have been known to pray to many different gods, so long as they are good. In times of war, I have lifted my voice to Heironeous, in times of quiet commune with nature, Elhonna has heard my voice. When I pray, my prayers go out to all the gods that are good and would be honored by my service. The symbol I wear is a symbol representing good. For me to wear one symbol and serve only one god would be doing an injustice to all the other gods who also seek for good to overcome the evil in the world.
Caterane 02-05-05, 07:13 AM	http://home.arcor.de/caterane/Quests/A'Seras.jpg "And you ventured here to seek the ancient religion of the Streit'Hahn? Can it be? Are you the one the prophesy heralds?" For a moment, A'Seras seemed to lose his calm elven demeanour to excitement but he quickly regained his composure. He draws in a deep breath. "There is an old legend, a prophesy, that speaks about the downfall of the Streit'Hahn at the hands of savage tribes but it also speaks about a N'Tel-Quessir - a "non-elf" - clad in iron and armed with the faith of the Streit'Hahn who will come to rebuild this place in its former glory. Yes, yes, that must be you, Oz Savage!"
LLMadCow 02-05-05, 07:19 AM	I have never heard of this Streit'Hahn. Please share more. Of rebuilding, I am no mason, nor am I a carpenter. If there is good to be done, hearts to be won, then that is a task that I can face. I live far from here. If I am the one you seek, what would you ask of me?
Caterane 02-05-05, 07:32 AM	http://home.arcor.de/caterane/Quests/A'Seras.jpg "Your destiny is linked to the Streit'Hahn! You are the one the prophesy heralds! When I say rebuilding I don't mean that you use your hands but rather your faith to gather people to this place! Some will be carpenters and masons but your role will be to lead this community; a unity of elves and humans venerating all good gods!" His voice rises with excitement while he speaks, then suddently drops to normal level, perhaps even with a sad tone. "However, a great evil must be overcome first! The leader of the Streit'Hahn wielded a weapon of pure faith forged into a bow, the Vesta Cu! Just before our great leader fell, he sealed the Vesta Cu in our main temple. The shamans of the orc tribes tried to steal this holy weapon but they couldn't touch it! They tried and tried but failed for only a pure soul and the leader of the Streit'Hahn can touch the bow. Unable to get their hands on this prize they commited one of the most unspeakable crimes! They animated the slain elven guardians of the temple to prevent anyone from retrieving the Vesta Cu. These mockeries of life will slay everyone who approaches the bow and they now no mercy. Oz Savage, you are the Chosen One! You must retrieve the Vesta Cu and fulfill your destiny!"
LLMadCow 02-05-05, 07:40 AM	And what will your role be in all of this? Are there any others who live as we do? I am willing to face the powers of evil that would try to defile the bow, and put to rest the elves who once served the greater good. Please lead the way. If you would join me, you company would be more than welcome, since nothing has been exactly easy. The forces of evil fight fiercely against good!
Caterane 02-05-05, 07:45 AM	http://home.arcor.de/caterane/Quests/A'Seras.jpg "No, you must face the evil alone. So it is written, and so will it be done. If you are really the Chosen One, you will reclaim the bow and sow the seed for a new dawn! My role will be the one of a humble advisor. I will lead you to the temple. Prepare yourself, Oz Savage, for the forces of evil are strong in this place."
LLMadCow 02-05-05, 08:04 AM	Oz takes some time to secure his armor. After thinking about what he might be facing, he also takes some time to gather some clubs. Oz adjusts Shamira's load and checks to make sure she is secure. Once finished gathering, and fashioning, clubs, Oz turns to A'Seras and says simply Let's go! [Since clubs are just sticks, Oz is going to gather a number of them. Oz will keep one sword and his shield. All other weapons will be with Shamira. Yes, Shamira the walking armory. She should be fine. Oz will pick up and store as many clubs as he can possibly carry without exceeding 150 lbs. Let's hear it for 10' range when throwing bludgeoning clubs! Oz will sing his 'I'm a Club Crafter' song or perhaps his 'Whistle while you craft clubs' song. No comments about Shamira straining from the weight! Oz will cast Shield of Faith just prior to battle.]
Caterane 02-05-05, 08:36 AM	Oz gathers 5 clubs from the woods and loads them on top of Shamira. The elf patiently waits during this time, and when Oz nodded, A'Seras lead him through the forest. There were more ruined buildings along the way, Oz could see the magnifiance of this place. After a short trip they stopped infront of a temple, perhaps the most intact building around. Its walls and parts of the roof were completely overgrown with ivy and other plants though no birds or other animals could be seen. "This once was our great temple and this is what is left of it. Most of it is ruined but the underground level is still intact. You must walk alone from now on for only the Chosen One can enter this place. You will find a staircase leading down into the darkness, down where the evil lurks. I will wait here for your return. May the gods be with you."
LLMadCow 02-05-05, 08:43 AM	Oz takes the clubs from Shamira's back and secures them to himself. He makes sure they are ready for the draw. Oz turns to Shamira and says You just keep guarding me. We'll be fine. Once inside, Oz touches his Holy Symbol to make sure it is secure, and just prior to descending down the stairs, Oz casts Shield of Faith and lights a torch. [Oz is just preparing for battle. Shield of Faith will be cast and Oz is ready for combat. The torch will be carried in one hand, and if there are torches to light along the way, Oz will be sure to light them as well.]
Caterane 02-05-05, 09:08 AM	http://home.arcor.de/caterane/Quests/AbandonedTemple1.jpg Oz lights a torch and readies his heavy shield, gives a last nod to the elf, then vanishs into the darkness. He easily finds the staircase A'Seras mentioned. It leads into the dark and an eery silences reigns in this place. Oz didn't want to take any chances and prays to Heironeous to protect him on this most important mission, and his request is granted as his faith itself bolstered him against attacks [Oz casts Shield of Faith+2]. Then he slowly descends down the stairs. After some seconds, the narrow staircase gives way to a vast hall, at least Oz guessed that it must be large from the echo of his heavy boots. His torchlight could only illuminate a small 20ft region around him, and another shadowy 20ft beyond that. It was a huge temple room, perhaps the main room where the ceremonies took place but it could also be the burial chamber as the coffins lined along the south wall indicate. Two pillars reach up to the 20ft high ceiling, covered with unknown runes and church pictures. However, Oz had little time to study ancient languages for two humanoid shapes rose from the ground! As his eyes adapted to the darkness, the full amount of horror assaulted him! The creatures were walking dead, composed of nothing but bones and senews, an eternal grimace on their skeletal face... Initiative: Skeletons 8 Oz Savage 14 Please state your actions.
LLMadCow 02-06-05, 03:59 AM	Time to fullfill my destiny! Oz carefully drops the torch into the square in front of himself and advances on the first Skeleton with Shamira staying close by his side. [Oz uses a free action to drop the torch into square (-11,+6), he uses a move action to move to (-8, +4) and at the same time he draws a club, and finally he uses a standard action to assault the Skeleton at (-7,+4); to hit (+2 Str, + 2 BAB, +? first attack?), damage [(1d6 + 2) Crit/x2]. Shamira is still following defend command.]
Caterane 02-06-05, 04:25 PM	http://home.arcor.de/caterane/Quests/AbandonedTemple2.jpg [You cannot move to (-8/+4) because you can only move 20ft] Oz drops his torch and storms forward into the darker area of this temple, drawing one of his makeshift clubs while he moves towards the undead boneman. He boldly swings the wodden weapon but his fear for this walking horror causes his attack to be hesistant [Oz: club (6+5) = 11, fails]. On the positive side, his reluctant attack has also bolstered his defense so the viscious claws of the skeleton misses [Skeleton1: claw 8 vs Ac24, fails; claw 11 vs Ac24, fails]. This was all that Shamira who didn't want to even approach the unnatural creatures could bear. She jumps forward and contrary to her instincts protects her master [Shamira: bite (16+3) = 19, success; Miss chance (20%) = 86%, ok; Damage (1d6+3) = 5][Trip: Shamira (16+1) vs Skeleton (4+3), success]. She sank her teeth deep into the bony leg and caused the unstable creature to fall over. Oz had no time to celebrate. Another skeleton approaches from the south and slashes with its claw against Oz' [Skeleton2: claw (9+3+2) = 14 vs Ac23, fails] armor. Oz Savage: 20/23 hp; shield of faith+2 (3/30), dodge [skeleton1] Schamira: 13/13 hp Skeleton 1: 1/6 hp; prone Skeleton 2: 6/6 hp; charged
LLMadCow 02-06-05, 05:03 PM	Die foul creature! Oz lashes out at the Skeleton that just charged him. [Oz attacks the charging creature, leaving Shamira with the fallen Skeleton. If the Skeleton tries to stand, Oz will take the customary AoO.]
Caterane 02-07-05, 05:20 PM	http://home.arcor.de/caterane/Quests/AbandonedTemple3.jpg Undead creatures, Oz couldn't tell which race they once belonged to, in a sacred temple of his faith! He would have prefered to run far away from this unholy menace but he knew his duty and swung the club against the bone torso of the southern skeleton [Oz: club (3+5) = 8, fails] but again, his attack was executed way too defensive to do any harm. Shamira on the other hand knew nothing about undead and attacked with much more determination that her master [Shamira: bite (20!), success (no critical vs undead); Miss chance (20%) = 28%, ok; Damage (1d6+3) = 7]. Bone by bone, the mad dog tore the skeleton to pieces. The fight her master had to endure was fierce but Oz - if nothing else - knew how to defend himself [Skeleton 2: claw (8+3) = 11 vs Ac23, fails; claw (9+3) = 12 vs Ac23, fails]. The claws did as much as a scratch on Oz shiny armor. "GET THE SKELETON, SHAMIRA!!" Oz shouted but Shamira was confused... not because she didn't understand the command; she just didn't know which skeleton, now that new undead arrived from the north and west: another boneman with its grimace from ear to ear, and worse even, a rotting zombie was limping into Oz direction. Oz Savage: 20/23 hp; shield of faith+2 (4/30), dodge [skeleton1] Schamira: 13/13 hp Skeleton 1: 0/6 hp; destroyed Skeleton 2: 6/6 hp Skeleton 3: 6/6 hp Zombie: 16/16 hp
LLMadCow 02-07-05, 05:37 PM	Oz looks around some. Well, isn't this is just one big party! Oz attacks the skeleton to the south of him and prepares to move to the south wall, closer to the stairs and closer to the light of the torch, if it goes down. [Oz attacks Skeleton at (-7,6) and IF the skeleton goes down from his and Shamira's attacks, Oz will move to (-9,8).]
Caterane 02-07-05, 06:12 PM	http://home.arcor.de/caterane/Quests/AbandonedTemple4.jpg The rotting - and worse: walking - corpse made Oz blood freeze to subzero! Ragged clothing that could once have been an expensive outfit was wrapped around the sickly green body with missing pieces, and on some parts one could even see the bones beneath. The stench this creature radiated was overwhelming! Oz made another halfhearted attack against the skeleton that still attacked him [Oz: club (4+5) = 9, fails] but again, the club bounced off the bone 'armor' of the skeleton. It was again up to Shamira who already scattered the last skeleton across the temple floor, and where bones are concerned, there's no better expert than a dog [Shamira: bite (18+3) = 21, success; Miss chance (20%) = 25%, ok; Damage (1d6+3) = 7; Skeleton 2 destroyed]. The southern skeleton ended in a pile of bones. "Shamira! Come here!" Oz hoped that the skeletons would back away from the light source... ...but got disappointed. The new skeleton began to increase its speed and attacked Shamira [Skeleton 3: claw (14+3+2) = 19 vs Ac20, fails]. This time, the bones striked back but thanks to the barding, the dog took no serious harm. The zombie continued his slow but steady advance, and if that wasn't enough horror for one day, a second zombie just came into the outer radius of the torchlight... Oz Savage: 20/23 hp; shield of faith+2 (5/30), dodge [zombie1] Schamira: 13/13 hp Skeleton 1: 0/6 hp; destroyed Skeleton 2: 0/6 hp; destroyed Skeleton 3: 6/6 hp; charged Zombie 1: 16/16 hp Zombie 2: 16/16 hp
LLMadCow 02-07-05, 06:24 PM	I've know these are skeletons, but what are those? Oz thinks back to some of his earliest training and prepares to attempt to turn the undead, but first to get rid of this club in his hand.... [Oz throws his club at the advancing Skeleton and draws his holy symbol out in front of himself, preparing to Turn Undead next round]
Caterane 02-07-05, 06:53 PM	http://home.arcor.de/caterane/Quests/AbandonedTemple5.jpg The first zombie was already a nightmare on two legs but two of them was more than Oz could bear. He boldly threw his club at the skeleton engaged with Shamira while he made sure to remain behind the dog. Normally, no sane creature would throw a club and hope for any success except for some wizards of the coast who were convinced that a club can also be used as an effective ranged weapon, absolutely equal to a dagger, a throwing axe, or bolas [Oz: throw club (1!), fails] but the akward club went far and wide. Oz made a mental note not to trust publications from these wizards anymore. Instinctively, he drew his holy symbol to pray to one of the many good and live-safing dogs..uh gods. Speaking of dogs, Shamira was still a bit off-balance from the last hit so her bite didn't connect this time [Shamira: bite (8+3) = 11, fails]. Perhaps it was exhaustion? The undead knew no exhaustion. The ageless creatures of unlife advanced on the two. The skeleton slashed again and again at Shamira [Skeleton 3: claw (10+3) = 13 vs Ac20, fails; claw (15+3) = 18 vs Ac20, fails] and again, the armor safed the day. But now the zombies were close enough to charge! The two rotten corpses raised their fists and slammed into dog and Oz respectively. Oz was surprised by the sheer strength of the slam and weren't it for the wall, he would have been driven back! Fortunately, his fullplate protected him from the powerful blow [Zombie 1: slam (4+5+2) = 10 vs Ac20, fails][Zombie 2: slam (7+5+2) = 14 vs Ac23, fails] Oz Savage: 20/23 hp; shield of faith+2 (6/30), dodge [zombie1] Schamira: 13/13 hp Skeleton 1: 0/6 hp; destroyed Skeleton 2: 0/6 hp; destroyed Skeleton 3: 6/6 hp Zombie 1: 16/16 hp; charged Zombie 2: 16/16 hp; charged
LLMadCow 02-07-05, 06:57 PM	Oz boldly holds his holy symbol out in front of him and shouts In the name of all that is good and righteous, I, Oz Savage - Champion of the light, servant of all good gods, I COMMAND you to stop this attack! [Oz boldly attempts to turn the undead before him!]
Caterane 02-07-05, 07:07 PM	Oz raises his holy symbol and feels divine power flowing into his mortal body. "BE GONE!!" he shouted, and the undead complied! Both zombies did their best to move away from the holy man, a bit too holy for their taste [Oz: turning check (17+0) = 17, affects: 5 HD; Turning damage (2d6+3) = 12 HD]. The skeleton just wanted to turn around but the holy might of the gods washed over it and reduced it to nothing more than ashes. The second zombie meanwhile vanished into the darkness. Only the northern zombie could still be seen as a silhouette in the north. This just was the first turn undead attempt in the long CoCo history!
LLMadCow 02-07-05, 07:20 PM	Oz smiles. This is going much better! Oz draws 2 torchs and lights them from the first. He walks forward and tosses one to the north and another to the west. He looks intently for the two Zombies. Upon spotting either, he draws his bow and prepares to fire upon them. [Oz lights torches to light up the room some more. He tosses one 30' north and the other 30' west from where he was standing. If he can see either Zombie, he will draw his bow and follow with attack; otherwise I will post further tactics.]
Caterane 02-07-05, 08:15 PM	http://home.arcor.de/caterane/Quests/AbandonedTemple6.jpg Oz blew a sigh of relief as the zombies ran out of sight but he also knew they will come back sooner or later. He used the time to light several torches and threw them into the dark to get a better picture of the room. The temple was bigger than expected! Even with the vast radius his 5 light sources covered, he only saw about half of the hall. But what he saw was impressive! A huge 20ft high statue of an elven god - Oz couldn't say which one - dominated the center of the temple. He held a magnificent sword in one hand, and something like a flame in the other. Another smaller statue could be seen at the south wall, one of an elven warrior, perhaps another god? Oz had little time to waste on history for the zombies were already returning... Round 7: draw torch2, move to torch1 Round 8: light torch2, draw a torch3 Round 9: light torch3, move back to first position Round10: throw torch2 northwards 30ft Round11: throw torch3 westwards 30ft Round12: draw torch4, move to torch1 Round13: light torch4, draw torch5 Round14: light torch5, move back to first position Round15: throw torch4 NNW 60ft Round16: throw torch5 WNW 60ft Round17: draw holy symbol... Oz Savage: 20/23 hp; shield of faith+2 (18/30), dodge [zombie1] Schamira: 13/13 hp Skeleton 1: 0/6 hp; destroyed Skeleton 2: 0/6 hp; destroyed Skeleton 3: 6/6 hp; destroyed Zombie 1: 16/16 hp Zombie 2: 16/16 hp
LLMadCow 02-07-05, 08:20 PM	Oz waits for the Zombies to come closer. Then when the Zombies are close enough, Oz, holding his Holy Symbol in front of himself once more, shouts You once served the light! The truth is all around you! I call on Corellon Larethian, God of the Elves, Protector and Preserver of life - TURN THEM! I call on Ehlonna, Goddess of the Woodlands - BANISH THEM FROM MY SIGHT! I call on Garl Glittergold, the Watchful Protector - MAKE THEM FLEE! I call on Heironeous, the Invincible - INFUSE ME WITH YOUR POWER! I call on Kord, the Brawler - BEAT BACK THINE ENEMIES! I call on Moradin, the Soul-Forger - SMITE THESE UNHOLY ABOMINATIONS! I call on Pelor, the Shining One - SHINE YOUR LIGHT WITHIN THESE HALLS! I call on Yondalla, the Blessed One - POUR OUT YOUR BLESSINGS UPON THIS VALIANT WARRIOR! Oz, slightly winded looks to see if they have been turned. [Oz attempts another turning.]
Caterane 02-07-05, 08:26 PM	Oz makes another turn attempt [Oz: turning check (1+0) = 1; Max HD: 0] but fear proofs to be stronger this time. Or perhaps the elven gods were annoyed that a cleric didn't know them. Whatever the reason, the zombies hobbled on...
LLMadCow 02-07-05, 08:48 PM	Oz looks at the advancing Zombies. Maybe a little too long winded? Oz draws his sword, remembering that the clubs had ZERO impact on any of the three skeletons, and he prepares to attack the first Zombie that is within striking distance. [Oz readies an action to strike the first Zombie that is within range. Dodge buddy - the closest Zombie.]
Caterane 02-07-05, 09:17 PM	http://home.arcor.de/caterane/Quests/AbandonedTemple7.jpg Oz waited for the zombies to approach which took a while since they are slow but he didn't dare to approach the unknown in the darkness; what other horrors might lurk there? Then the zombies were upon him! Their powerful fist were already high in the air but this time, Oz was ready! Just as the first zombie came into reach, he slashed at them with his longsword [Oz, ready action: longsword (16+5) = 21, success; Damage (1d8+2) = 3] and the sword easily parted the rotten flesh. But now the zombies attacked back. The ordinary fist had tremendous power and this time not even the fullplate protected Oz from this impact [Zombie 1: slam (20!), critical threat (10+5+2) = 17, not confirmed; Damage (1d6+4) = 8]. The fist collided squarely with his chin and only thanks to the steel protection was Oz still standing ...the dented protection confirmed this. The other zombie came from the north and attacked Shamira [Zombie 2: slam (16+5+2) = 23 vs Ac20, success; Damage (1d6+4) = 6] and almost knocked her out. Only loyality to her master, and perhaps the 200 arrows that formed a natural armor, kept her on her paws. Oz Savage: 12/23 hp; shield of faith+2 (23/30), dodge [zombie1] Schamira: 7/13 hp Zombie 1: 13/16 hp; charged Zombie 2: 16/16 hp; charged
LLMadCow 02-07-05, 09:33 PM	Die! Oz attacks the Zombie, hoping to uncover more of this mystery. [Oz will 5' step west and attack Zombie 1.]
Caterane 02-08-05, 08:05 AM	http://home.arcor.de/caterane/Quests/AbandonedTemple8.jpg The first wave of attacks was almost devastating to the friends of the light. Both Oz and Shamira had suffered a grivious wound from a mere fist but the power that was behind it was overwhelming. Oz knew he had to fulfill his destiny or die trying, else he could never look into the mirror again and this realization helped to overcome his fear a bit [Oz: longsword (12+5) = 17, success; Damage (1d8+2) = 4] and made his attacks more lethal. A slash across the torso drew a deep gash on the zombie body which also threw the undead offbalance [Zombie1: slam (1!), fails]. Shamira on the other hand was impressed and intimidated by the unnatural beeing infront of her and decided to lick her wound instead of attacking [Dog: bite (1!), fails]. It is questionable if that was the best course of action for the zombie infront of her knew no mercy [Zombie2: slam (15+5) = 20 vs Ac20, success; Damage (1d6+4) = 6]. The zombiefist decended down on the poor dog and almost cracked her spine. Shamira was knocking on Harvester's door... Oz Savage: 12/23 hp; shield of faith+2 (24/30), dodge [zombie1] Schamira: 1/13 hp Zombie 1: 9/16 hp Zombie 2: 16/16 hp
LLMadCow 02-08-05, 08:14 AM	Come on, girl. I need you. Oz casts to cure Shamira. [Oz will spontaneously cast CLW on Shamira, sacrificing Magic Weapon; chance the AoO - do not cast defensively.]
Caterane 02-08-05, 08:34 AM	http://home.arcor.de/caterane/Quests/AbandonedTemple8.jpg Oz' heart fell when he saw the last hit almost killing Shamira, and the slaughterfest was far from over! Instinctively, Oz made a fast and fervent prayer to no special god in particular and laid his hands on Shamira. The zombie saw his chance to attack again [Zombie1, AoO: slam (15+5) = 20 vs Ac24, fails] but the fullplate blocked the worst of it. Positive energy flooded Shamira's body [Oz: cure light wounds (1d8+3) = 5] and closed some of her wounds. Some. At least it helped her to renew her attack [Shamira: bite (13+3) = 16, success; Damage (1d6+3) = 6] and she tore a good piece of flesh out of the zombieleg which caused the creature [Trip: Shamira (18+1) = 19 vs Zombie2 (4+4) = 8, success] to fall over. The 1st zombie pressed the attack from behind [Zombie1: slam (11+5) = 16 vs Ac24, fails] but again, the heavy armor keeps Oz alive. The second zombie tries to stand up again but Shamira was in a blood frenzy and raked across the rotten corpse [Shamira, AoO: bite (20!), success (no crits); Damage (1d6+3) = 5] before the zombie was back on his feet. Oz Savage: 12/23 hp; shield of faith+2 (26/30), dodge [zombie1] Schamira: 6/13 hp Zombie 1: 9/16 hp Zombie 2: 5/16 hp
LLMadCow 02-08-05, 08:44 AM	Oz continues to face off against the Zombies. You are going to DIE! [Oz fights on.]
Caterane 02-08-05, 08:53 AM	http://home.arcor.de/caterane/Quests/AbandonedTemple8.jpg Upon seeing Shamira raking at the zombie Oz gathered new hope. Of course, he himself didn't hit [Oz: longsword (5+5) = 10, fails] but Shamira was his bodyguard anyway and her bite was highly effective against the zombie [Dog: bite (19+3) = 22, success; Damage (1d6+3) = 4 *lol*][Trip: Shamira (11+1) = 12 vs Zombie2 (2+4) = 6, success]. The zombie was just about to attack as he was sent again on his back and his fist attack went wide [Zombie 2: slam (9+5-4) = 10 vs Ac20, fails]. Also, the other zombie failed to penetrate the fullplate [Zombie 1: slam (10+5) = 15 vs Ac24, fails]. Oz swore to give the smith of this armor an extra coin when he is back in Gladius. Oz Savage: 12/23 hp; shield of faith+2 (27/30), dodge [zombie1] Shamira: 6/13 hp Zombie 1: 9/16 hp Zombie 2: 1/16 hp; prone
LLMadCow 02-08-05, 08:59 AM	I thought I told you to die? Okay, let's try this: Good sir, would you please die? Oz swings at the persistent Zombie. [Oz will continue the attack.]
Caterane 02-08-05, 09:11 AM	http://home.arcor.de/caterane/Quests/AbandonedTemple9.jpg One of the zombies fell and so Oz and Shamira's spirits soared. Even Oz finally made a hit with his sword and lobbed one of the dried arms off, no difficult feat for the right arm was only held by some bones and sinews [Oz: longsword (11+5) = 16, success; Damage (1d8+2) = 6]. Shamira raked through the fallen zombie with bite, claw, and bloodlust [Shamira: bite (9+3+4) = 16, success; Damage (1d6+3) = 7] until only an unrecognizable mass of dried blood and rotten flesh remained. The one-armed zombie still stood but luckily for Oz and Shamira, this one was right-handed [Zombie 1: slam (3+5) = 8]. Oz Savage: 12/23 hp; shield of faith+2 (28/30), dodge [zombie1] Shamira: 6/13 hp Zombie 1: 3/16 hp Zombie 2: 0/16 hp; destroyed
LLMadCow 02-08-05, 09:14 AM	Yeah! Oz is thrilled by the battle. Oz steps to the side and he continues to attack the zombie. [5' step to (-7,7) and attack with flanking bonus.]
Caterane 02-08-05, 09:18 AM	Oz finally got into a flanking position and realized that this is much easier to hit when the zombie is occupied with 2 foes. He raised his sword and easily beheaded the zombie from behind [Oz: longsword (7+5+2(flank)) = 14 vs Ac13, success; Damage (1d8+2) = 7]. Oz Savage: 12/23 hp; shield of faith+2 (29/30), dodge [zombie1] Shamira: 6/13 hp Skeleton 1: 0/6 hp; destroyed Skeleton 2: 0/6 hp; destroyed Skeleton 3: 0/6 hp; destroyed Zombie 1: 0/16 hp; destroyed Zombie 2: 0/16 hp; destroyed
LLMadCow 02-08-05, 09:27 AM	Finally! Oz turns to Shamira - I couldn't have done it without you. Thanks. Oz kneels and pats Shamira on the head. Oz spends a little bit of time to heal Shamira some. Oz then draws his scroll of Cure Light wounds and focuses on his own wounds. Finally Oz stands, feeling better about the whole situation. Let's see what we have here. Oz begins exploring the room and studying the statues and anything else in the room. [Oz dumps all Orisons to heal Shamira up to 10. Use scroll of CLW on Oz - use 1 if it heals at least 6 points, otherwise use both. Then pick up a torch and explore the room]
Caterane 02-08-05, 10:04 AM	Oz was happy that the fight against these abominations was finally over but he also felt the pain. Not wanting to take any risks, he draws a scroll and heals his wounds [Oz: cure light wounds (1d8+1) = 4]. Not satisfied with the result he draws another one [Oz: cure light wounds (1d8+1) = 6]. Shamira also licked her wounds but Oz' orisons were more effective on her, and soon thereafter she felt better. During the healing phase, Oz shield of faith ran out. Oz Savage: 22/23 hp Shamira: 10/13 hp Now it was time to investigate the mystery Oz was talking about earlier. He took a torch [torch 1] and began to walk around in the temple. http://home.arcor.de/caterane/Quests/Abandoned%20Temple.jpg As Oz walked through the temple he saw dried blood on the floor on various spots. He couldn't tell anything else from that for he had no knowledge in the mundane healing art. Five pillars north and five south supported the ceiling. Two wings north and south harbored some coffins with unknown (to Oz at least) runes, while the northern wing had a huge pile of crates, most of them destroyed by force, and all empty. The east wall had a long bookshelf; unfortunately it contained as much as the crates. Oz had already seen the huge central statue but there were not one but four statues along the wall, all depicting elves, two warriors, another one dressed in robes, and one seemed to be a mix between the two classes. At the end of the hall was a fifth statue of another unknown elf, this one resembling a ranger of some sort. Infront of the statue was an altar with runes that seemed to be similar to the ones on the walls or the coffins thus undecipherable to Oz. On the altar was a heavy brazier, bronze perhaps, that was inlaid into the altar and covered with rust from centuries of time. Oz however, had only eyes for the statue of the ranger for it held the most beautiful bow in hands he had ever seen. Unlike the rest of the statue, the bow was not made of stone but was a real bow made from the best wood in the High Forest. Its string sparkled in soft blue and the same runes decorated the bow from top to top.
LLMadCow 02-08-05, 10:12 AM	With a look of awe, Oz simpy says This must be the Vesta Cu that A'Seras I'indra mentioned. If I am the 'Non-Elf' that he spoke of, then this is my right. Oz reaches out for the bow, to examine it.
Caterane 02-08-05, 10:16 AM	Oz was confronted with two problems. First of all, the bow was at a height of 15ft so he couldn't reach it. And even if he had packed a ladder on Shamira's back, he couldn't free it from the stony grasp of the statue that had the bow in an iron grip.
Caterane 02-14-05, 08:38 AM	http://home.arcor.de/caterane/Quests/A'Seras.jpg "Ah, the famous Vesta Cu" a melodious voice spoke from behind. Oz quickly turned around and saw A'Seras I'indra at the end of the hall, not far from the staircase. He must have just arrived down here "How magnificent it is, don't you agree, Chosen One?" The way he emphasized the last words didn't appeal to Oz but he waited and listened to what the elf had to tell him. "You fool! Do you really think you are the Chosen One? MUAHAHAHA Even if there would be something like that, a dirty human who ranks just above the goblins and the apes *spit* surely wouldn't be the one. But wait, I still have to thank you for doing the work down here. I had a healthy respect for these guardians, elves who once swore an oath to protect the bow even after their death. They are not very effective against a believer of their own faith...like you. Yes, yes, I waited a long time but I didn't think that it would be that easy in the end. Well, what can one expect from a mere human. And now stand aside; I will seize the bow!"
LLMadCow 02-14-05, 12:19 PM	Chosen One or not, I came here for this and I fought off these abominations, I will not just let you walk all over me. Oz moves to the side, drawing his bow and firing. [Oz is going to move to the side, ensuring a clean line-of-sight, drawing his bow at the same time, and fire off a single shot at the elf.]
Caterane 02-14-05, 02:07 PM	http://home.arcor.de/caterane/Quests/Abandoned%20Temple11.jpg Initiative: Savage: 17+2 = 19 A'Seras: 10+2 = 12 Oz - always the impulsive one - wastes no time with diplomacy nor is he interested in what A'Seras might have to say. He drops the torch on the spot, draws his bow while he moves into a better position, then fires off an arrow. Unfortunately, in the last second he was was asking himself if he had brought enough arrows with him but the gasping dog eased him. The arrow however flew against the rear wall [Longbow (3+5) = 8, fails]. "I knew it! You were here to steal the Vesta Cu all along! Ah, then this was a double bluff, and I can even kill you without a bad conscience ...not that I would have one." A'Seras seemed relaxed and calm. He raised his hands and began to speak mystic syllables [Spellcraft (4+7) = 11, fails] but the casting was too silent for his human ears and too difficult for his Oz brain. Infact he couldn't even tell wether he was facing an arcane or divine caster. He prepared for the worst! As soon as A'Seras finished his gestures, sticky strands began to appear from out of nowhere and engulfed him. He tried to run away but more strands appeared and held his arms and legs in place. "NO!!" he shouted out and with a ruck, he managed to pull his legs free [Oz: Reflex (18+3) = 21, success]. Shamira on the other hand didn't fare that well. Normally, a dog wouldn't have any problems getting through the spiderwebs but a dog with 200 arrows and the complete equipment of a goblin squad is a different matter [Shamira: reflex (7+5) = 12, fails]. Shamira got helplessly entangled within the web. What was even worse is that Oz couldn't see through the web which formed an impenetrable barrier for his eyes. The only thing he could hear was A'Seras laughter but the echo made it almost impossible to hear anything [Listen (7+3-X) = fails]. Savage: 22/23 hp; entangled Shamira: 10/13 hp; entangled, immobile A'Seras: ??/?? hp; ??
LLMadCow 02-14-05, 03:14 PM	I do not hesitate to dispatsh those who declare themselves to be my enemies. Perhaps all this time alone in the woods has confused you, but I am one of the good guys. Why is it you tell me 'retrieve the Vesta Cu and fullfill your destiny', but then you call me a thief for attempting such actions? Oz casts his own spell. [Oz casts enlarge person]
Caterane 02-14-05, 04:16 PM	No answer comes forth but Oz has expected that much. He knew he need to get more muscles to get out of the webs so he casts a spell that enlarges his frame [Concentration (10+8) = 18 vs Dc16, ok]. Shamira tries to break free aswell [Strength (20+2) = 22 vs Dc20, ok] and the many sharps arrow heads helped her to get some space. While Oz was casting and Shamira breaking free, the cleric hears faint footsteps somewhere in the NE distance [Listen (20+3-X) = success]. Savage: 22/23 hp; entangled, casting... Shamira: 10/13 hp; entangled, breaking free... A'Seras: ??/?? hp; ??
LLMadCow 02-14-05, 04:54 PM	You claim to be a guardian of this sacred place, and yet you defile it! Oz tries to move beyond the entanglement. [Oz is going to spend a few rounds trying to escape the range of the entangle.]
Caterane 02-14-05, 07:48 PM	Oz finishes casting enlargement and feels stronger than ever but at the same time his mass increases, giving the strands more points to hold him in place [Strength (10+3) = 13]. Since he hasn't heard anything from the elf, his hair began to stand up [Listen (2+3-X) = fails]. Oz tries to escape the strands again [Strength (8+3) = 11] but is again surprised about the resistance of the web. "Tiris'fal!!" While trying to break free of the trap, he http://home.arcor.de/caterane/Quests/AbandonedTemple12.jpgsees a small red light in the distance which comes closer and closer and also faster. Too late he realizes the threat as magic missile [Spellcraft (19+7) = 26, pass]; the small red globe impacts with his breast, ignoring his metal armor [Magic missile (1d4+1) = 5][Oz: 17/23 hp]. "You are slow on the uptake, human! I am no guardian; I've never been. All I am interested is the bow! As it seems you wanted to steal the bow aswell. The bow however is of elven make and does not belong to dirty human hands!" That made Oz angry! With a cry of fury he manages to push himself forward through the web, pulling thick strands behind him but at least he made some progress [Strength (16+3) = 19]. But just as he was about to break free, another magic missile flew in his direction and caused him pain [Magic missile (1d4+1) = 2][Oz: 15/23 hp]. Oz tried on and on but all he won were mere 5 feet [Strength (14+3) = 17] and these feet came at a price. "Tiris'fal" [Magic missile (1d4+1) = 2] he heard the familiar voice from the NE [Spot (10+3-X) = fails]. Shamira, who also tried to get out of the web he troubles on her own but finally she made it through and was now standing just outside the web [Strength checks: 8+3, 17+3, 13+3] Savage: 13/23 hp; entangled, enlarge person, breaking free... Shamira: 10/13 hp; entangled, breaking free... A'Seras: ??/?? hp; ??
LLMadCow 02-15-05, 11:17 AM	I came her for far more than the bow. You are just a common thief who couldn't deal with a few undead, and might I add an incompetent thief at that! I know rogues who could manage to get past the undead and have greater success than you. Oz continues to break free, but also shouts at Shamira Attack, attack! [Oz will continue to break free from the weeds while directing Shamira to attack. She saw who he attacked, and she can hear him too.]
Caterane 02-15-05, 12:30 PM	"The bow belongs into elven hands instead of withering here in the dark, and the undead are far more dangerous against non-believers but what do you know. You will die down here and your corpse will rot like it does anyway with your short life expectancy." Shamira didn't need any prompting, and since her eyes are far keener than Oz she could easily see the elf. Her legs began to pump and with a mighty leap, she disappeared in the darkness. What Oz could hear was barking, growling, barking, rake rake, melodious "AAAHH!!", then spellcasting [Shamira: bite (12+3+2) = 17, success; Damage (1d6+3) = 6][Trip: dog (5+2) = 7 vs elf (4+2) = 6, ok]. Again like so often during this quest, Oz' ally proves to be invaluable. With all the action in the darkness, Oz himself forget to break free this round [Strength (7+3) = 10]. But back to the dog. As mentioned earlier, between the barking and growling, Oz could also hear spellcasting "Tofallana'DORA!!" and Oz knew Shamira was in trouble [Oz: spellcraft (12+7) = 19, ok]! He made a fast and fervent prayer to all the gods out there to protect his dog from the coming shock. The barking of Shamira turned into a howl but as much as it pained to hear the faithful companion howl in pain, Oz knew that Shamira could be lucky that she could still howl at all. The gods smiled indeed on Oz this day [A'Seras: concentration (19+7) = 26 vs Dc16, ok; melee touch attack (10+3+3(metal)-4(prone)) = 12 vs Ac10 (charged), success; Damage (3d6) = 5]. Savage: 13/23 hp; entangled, enlarge person, breaking free... Shamira: 5/13 hp; charged A'Seras: X-6 hp; ??, prone
LLMadCow 02-15-05, 12:41 PM	Hang in there girl! Oz fights for all his worth to free himself from the vines. [Oz struggles to break free]
Caterane 02-15-05, 01:06 PM	Things began to look grim on the pilgrimage. Shamira began to bark again and tried to get her share of elven ear but A'Seras was a dextrous one [Shamira: bite (8+3+4(vs prone)) = 15, fails] and easily evaded the bite by rolling to the side. Oz meanwhile almost surrendered to the web. He couldn't make any progress [Oz: strength check (6+3) = 9]. A'Seras still felt highly uncomfortable with sharp dogteeth infront of his face. Instead of trying to stand up and lowering his guard for a second he gave a mental command to one of his allies. A tiny viper left his pocket and snaked itself forward, incurring an attack as it entered the reach of the dog who was very afraid of snakes [Shamira, AoO: bite (9+3) = 12 vs Ac17, fails] and his reluctant attack didn't even come close. The viper moved on but the dog jumped up in the right moment [Viper: bite (7+5) = 12 vs Ac18, fails] and evaded the bite. When Shamira looked back up, A'Seras was already back on his feet and casting a spell "Enshu'fallah-na!!" but that was also the last thing she saw from the vanishing elf [Oz: spellcraft (12+7) = 19, ok]. Savage: 13/23 hp; entangled, enlarge person, breaking free... Shamira: 5/13 hp A'Seras: X-6 hp; ??, invisibility DaViper: ??? hp
LLMadCow 02-15-05, 01:12 PM	Oz continues to struggle to break free. [Oz tries to free himself.]
Caterane 02-15-05, 01:23 PM	With no other enemy in sight, the dog - who still was an animal - attacks the snake under his belly [Shamira: bite (20!), critical threat (9+3) = 12 vs Ac19, not confirmed; Damage (1d6+3) = 6]. One of the claws connected with the starboard side of the snake and ripped it open. Mysteriously, the reptilian was able to get off one last attack [Viper: bite (18+5) = 23 vs Ac18, ok; Damage = 1][Shamira: fortitude (13+5) = 18 vs Dc10, ok] before succumbing to its wounds. Oz watched this with fascination until he realized that he couldn't see anything [Oz: strength (3+3) = 6]. Da Viper doesn't stabilize [Viper: stabilize (10%) = 57%, fails]. Savage: 13/23 hp; entangled, enlarge person, breaking free... Shamira: 4/13 hp; poisoned A'Seras: ??/12 hp; ??, invisibility DaViper: -2/6 hp; dying
Caterane 02-15-05, 01:35 PM	Ozstriker began to tear and pull and push and finally managed to make a few feet progress, five to be exact. He was close to the end of the web but still completely entangled from all sides [Oz: strength (12+3) = 15]. Shamira tried to look for the elf [Listen (2+5-X) = fails] but fails to hear anything. Her ears went up and she tried to pick up some noise. The noise came indeed but in form of an exotic spellsong [Spellcraft (6+7) = 13, fails] which Oz didn't recognize. Shamira now knew where to look for [Listen (8+5-X) = 13-X vs Dc0, success]. Savage: 13/23 hp; entangled, enlarge person, breaking free... Shamira: 4/13 hp; poisoned A'Seras: ??/12 hp; ??, invisibility, ?? DaViper: -3/6 hp; dying
Caterane 02-15-05, 01:45 PM	Oz pulled on with all his mighty might and managed to get halfway out of the web [Oz: strength (13+3) = 16]. Just one more pull and he might be free! Shamira moved to the position where she heard the spellcasting from and began to scent. "Tiris'fal!" From out of nowhere, a red globe flew into Shamira's direction and hit her [Magic missile (1d4+1) = 3] on the head. She was barely alive but determined to put the last energy to good use by tearing the elf to shreds! "WHY DON'T YOU JUST DIE YOU DAMN DOG!!" Savage: 13/23 hp; entangled, enlarge person, breaking free... Shamira: 1/13 hp; poisoned A'Seras: ??/12 hp; ??, ?? DaViper: -4/6 hp; dying
Caterane 02-15-05, 01:57 PM	The shock about Shamira dying was too much for Oz and he entangled himself further [Oz: strength (10+3) = 13]. Shamira charged the elf with her last breath. Her hindlegs pulled herself up and the leap brought her exactly onto the elf and took him down with her!! A'Seras landed hard on his back and bumped his head against the stonefloor. If that wasn't enough, Shamira's claws raked once twice across his torso and drew deep red lines on his thin breast. Blood began to trickle from his mouth[Shamira: bite (20!), critical threat (11+3+2) = 16, not confirmed; Damage (1d6+3) = 5][Trip: dog (6+2) = 8 vs elf (2+2) = 4, ok]! The elf was barely alive. One eye almost swollen shut, he tried to get his weakened arm up, and touched Shamira's flank with the tip of his wand... "Ti...tir...Tiris'fffal" A single red globe shot forth and impacted directly with Shamira. The impact blew her off of him and five feet back through the air, where she lay still [Magic missile (1d4+1) = 3]. With his last bit of strength, A'Seras drew a potion. Savage: 13/23 hp; entangled, enlarge person, breaking free... Shamira: -3/13 hp; poisoned, dying A'Seras: 1/12 hp; ??, ??, prone DaViper: -4/6 hp; dying
LLMadCow 02-15-05, 02:13 PM	Elhonna! Oz struggles to free himself. [Oz tries to break free.]
Caterane 02-15-05, 02:21 PM	The scene that Oz had to witness a second ago was too much "SHAMIIIIIRRRAAAAAA" he cried and with a mighty pull he finally freed himself from the web [Oz: strength (15+3) = 18]! The elf slowly began to stand up, and drank the potion he drew the last round. Savage: 13/23 hp; entangled, enlarge person, breaking free... Shamira: -4/13 hp; poisoned, dying A'Seras: ??/12 hp; ??, ?? DaViper: -5/6 hp; dying
LLMadCow 02-15-05, 02:31 PM	Oz starts to run towards the elf, but holds off at the last moment. Oz retrieves a scroll of Obscuring Mist and casts the spell. [Oz retrieves the scroll (Move action) and casts the spell (Standard Action).]
Caterane 02-15-05, 02:44 PM	Oz draws a scroll of obscurring mist and casts it. He hears A'Seras casting expeditious retreat. [Oz: listen (17+3-9) = 11 vs Dc10, success, spellcraft (12+7) = 19] Savage: 13/23 hp; enlarge person, obscurring mist Shamira: -5/13 hp; poisoned, dying A'Seras: ??/12 hp; ??, ??, expeditious retreat DaViper: -5/6 hp; stabilized
LLMadCow 02-15-05, 02:56 PM	Oz spontaneously cures himself and retrieves an Oil of Magic Weapon. [Oz cures and grabs an Oil]
Caterane 02-15-05, 03:01 PM	Oz prays to the gods and is surprised that his healing magic works wonders! It seems like his prayers are stronger in this temple [Oz: converts divine favor (1d8+3) = 9][A'Seras: spellcraft (??)]. Then he draws a flask. Oz hears spellcasting from the other side [Oz: spellcraft (16+7) = 23 vs Dc16] and a feeling of dread washes over him as he correctly identifieses a sleep spell!! http://home.arcor.de/caterane/Quests/AbandonedTemple13.jpg Savage: 22/23 hp; enlarge person, obscurring mist Shamira: -6/13 hp; poisoned, dying A'Seras: ??/12 hp; ??, ??, expeditious retreat, casting sleep... DaViper: -5/6 hp; stabilized
LLMadCow 02-15-05, 03:13 PM	Oz moves to the North-Western most portion of the Obscurring Mist in hopes of avoiding Sleep. [Oz was not expecting EL 3, so he does what he can to avoid the sleep.]
Caterane 02-16-05, 03:47 PM	Oz who mistakes the elf for a bigger threat than he actually is had almost no options left. To the south was a thick jungle of webs from which he had just escaped and he had no intention of getting back in there. Well, actually he would have loved to get back in there and set it on fire but he had no time for that. His Plan B involved setting himself on fire but one of his gods, the LLMadCat, told him that this would cause more damage than the expected 1 point. The next idea was stepping on the bonfire that the torch created but that also failed to show the wanted effect. Oz had more ideas, like climbing on the altar behind him where he would stand on one leg to fall down in case of sleepiness but he also knew that he would have trouble to get up there in the first place and it was also doubtful wether a 5ft fall causes any damage at all to an armored knight. Another option he used was a scorn prayer to his gods for sending him such an overpowered foe in hope that A'Seras might vanish on the spot. Nothing helped. He was left with his only option: stealth. Oz knew the sleep spell had a limited radius so he tiptoed to the north and westernmost side of the obscurring mist... as silently as possible. However, on his way through the dense fog, some things happened. First of all, his left foot got entwined in a renegade piece of web which he quickly removed with a "DAMN YOU STUPID ***** WEB PIECE I KILL YOU WHEN I SURVIVE THIS!!!" which didn't really help to mask his position. For the second misfortune, we have to know that Oz had considered oiling his fullplate for a year now. He knew the armor could begin to squeak any time but then, he thought that he can just wait until it actually squeaks; I mean, what harm can be done if it screeches? *SQUEAK SQUEAK SQUEAK SQUEAKSQUEAK* Of course he tried to counter this by hitting against the squeaking parts ..like that *BAMM BAMMM BAMM BAMBAMBAM* and indeed, the squeaking stopped! Unfortunately, it was because the squeaking metal parts clattered to the floor *KKKKTTTTSHS KRRRHSHSHSHSSH KRKRKRKRKRKRKR clatterclatterclatter* The hole that was now in the fullplate caused other parts to rattle *CLINKCLINK CLINKCLINK CLINKCLINK* That robbed Oz of his concentration and he stepped on the tail of a passing cat *MEEEEOOOOWWWWWW!!!!*. Unbeknownst to others - and to Oz aswell - the cleric had an alergie against cats and he began sneezing at a rate of 1/second. The gods clearly didn't support cowardly stealth tactics of their champions [Oz: move silently (2-8) = -6][A'Seras: listen (19+X-Y) = success] A'Seras wondered what the cleric was up to and first thought that might be a trick but he finished through with his spell and aimed it at the new spot where the cleric went to: the northwestern section of the fog. The spell began to take effect as the elf finished the last syllable of the complicated and longwinded spell but he grinned as he pointed at the spot and a rosered cloud began to descend on Oz position. Oz however had other problems! He tried to calculate the repair costs for his armor, how he could pay back the web strands, why a torch doesn't burn like a firewall, and *HAAAA-TCHI!!* developed a hate for cats. There was no room for rosered clouds at the moment [Oz: will save vs sleep (14+6) = 20, success]. Savage: 22/23 hp; enlarge person, obscurring mist Shamira: -7/13 hp; poisoned, dying A'Seras: ??/12 hp; ??, ??, expeditious retreat DaViper: -5/6 hp; stabilized
LLMadCow 02-16-05, 04:19 PM	Oz , amazed to be alive, flustered to be up against this psychotic elf, decides to test fate. Oz drops his sword to the floor, wills the end of his Enlarge Person spell and draws his longbow. [Drop sword = free, end spell = standard, draw bow = move.]
Caterane 02-16-05, 04:47 PM	Oz knew that his dog was almost dead so he tried to ...wait a bit longer. He dismissed his enlarge person spell, then dropped his longsword to the floor *CLATTER*, and draws his bow. Savage: 22/23 hp Shamira: -8/13 hp; poisoned, dying A'Seras: ??/12 hp; ??, ??, expeditious retreat DaViper: -5/6 hp; stabilized
LLMadCow 02-16-05, 05:00 PM	Oz steps forward to the edge of the mist and fires a shot off at the elf. [See above.]
Caterane 02-16-05, 05:17 PM	Oz moved forward to the edge of the mist, pulls his bowstring,... and got hit by a magic missile from the readying elf [magic missile (1d4+1) = 5], this time directly on the head. Wether this was a good or a bad thing in Oz' case has yet to be found out. In any case, this caused him to involutarily release the bowstring sooner than expected and the arrow flew wide [longbow (8+5) = 13, fails]. Savage: 17/23 hp; obscurring mist Shamira: -9/13 hp; poisoned, dying A'Seras: ??/12 hp; ??, ??, expeditious retreat DaViper: -5/6 hp; stabilized
LLMadCow 02-16-05, 05:23 PM	Oz knows that he is about to lose Shamira. He cries just a little under his steel visor. He refocuses and fires another arrow. [Aim, fire.]
Caterane 02-16-05, 06:04 PM	The impact of the magic missile stuns Oz for a second so that A'Seras could act again before the cleric could recover. The elf moves forward with his magically enhanced speed and begins to weave mystical patterns into the air while singing an ancient elven spellsong though Oz has read about this one in the book he brought with him. It was an evil spell that sapped the strength of a creature [Oz: spellcraft (14+7) = 21 vs Dc16, ok]. A'Seras then points a finger at Oz and a black ray hits the cleric direclty in the chest. Oz strength began to flow out of his body like water would leave a leaking glas! His bow suddenly felt unnaturally heavy, not to mention his fullplate! The black ray didn't break up but the strength drain went on and on while A'Seras laughed visciously [A'Seras: ray of enfeeblement (19+4) = 23 vs Ac12 (touch), ok; Strength damage (1d6+1) = 5]. The strength drain left a heavy toll on Oz! His armor was so heavy that he couldn't even move a single step without falling over so he remained where he was. [You are now more than heavily encumbered. You can take 5ft steps as a fullround action. You lose your dexterity modifier to Armor class, your armor check penalty goes up by 6. Additionally, you get a -2 penalty to your ranged attacks because you can't effecively use your bow anymore. Ouch.] "AHAHAHAHA What now, you fool? You are dead! Trapped within your own armor. I am going to kill you now but before I do so I want you to know that I will finally claim the elven oathbow ...yes, an oathbow. I will finally be able to get rid of the Elders in my village that cast me out! I will finally have my REVENGE!!! I will tell them who helped me to retrieve the bow when they will draw in their last breath!" A'Seras looked to the side where the bleeding dog was lying. He smiled at Oz while he walked over to her, drew a knife and slit her throat infront of Oz eyes [Shamira: stabilize (10%) = 14%, fails, dead]. Anger swelled up within Oz! He sees his faithful companion and friend, Shamira, who accompanied him for years! Shamira who saved him from the goblins! Shamira who saved him from the undead! All that pained him beyond reason and tears began to roll down his cheeks. But then, one thought came to his mind; one thought that let him forget everything and increased his hate and despise for the elf a hundredfold!!! One single thought came to his mind: who is going to carry all the arrows back to Gladius!?!? "WHAAAAAAARRRRRGGGGGHHHHHHHH" Oz saw red. He pulled his bow string and knocked an arrow - not that A'Seras was too worried with all his magical protections - then released the shaft. The arrow flew with lightning fast speed and mysteriously embedded itself right into A'Seras heart! "B..b...b..but...." was all A'Seras could say before he fell over and lay still [Oz, uses strength domain: longbow (20!), critical threat (3+5-2) = 6 vs Ac20, not confirmed; Damage (1d8+2) = 7]. Oz was still trying to think about which statement would best suit his gravestone. It took him almost a minute to realize that he had actually won this fight! The chances were so slim but he had made it! That was surely a fight worth remembering! Savage: 17/23 hp; obscurring mist, enfeebled [5], overloaded Shamira: -10/13 hp; dead A'Seras: -3/12 hp; mage armor, shield, expeditious retreat DaViper: -5/6 hp; stabilized
LLMadCow 02-16-05, 06:57 PM	Oz collapses onto the floor. He attempts to free himself from his armor. Once out of his armor he moves across the room to mourn his beloved dog. After an extended cry, Oz takes some time to secure his shelter and secure his belongings. He gathers everything together and spends the night in the temple. He will bury Shamira in the morning and make a litter to drag his belongings home. Before sleeping for the night, Oz finally address the elf. You killed my Shamira. Why? You lied to me, killed my dog, and now all you have to show for it is your own death. You and that stupid worm. Oz stomps on the snake a few times. You know what I really wanted to do? I would've loved to heal you - heal you, just so that you could've understood how much I hate what you have done to my dog. I wanted you to feel her pain. Feel the blade across your throat. But, that would've been a little bit too mean! Tears are pouring down Oz's cheeks. I may not make you go through all that, but I will use you as a warning. Oz draws his sword and cuts the elf's head off. Grabbing the head by the hair, Oz walks up the stairs and goes outside. He then grabs a branch, snaps it in two and stabs it into the ground. With the branch firmly in place, he takes the elfs head and jams it on top of the stick as a warning for any who might come here to defile this place.
Caterane 02-16-05, 07:03 PM	After Oz completed his orc barbarian ritual, he went back inside and checked the headless corpse for items. He found a Longsword (15), Longbow (75), Dagger (2), Scroll of shield (25), scroll of mage armor (25), scroll of expeditious retreat (25), Wand of magic missiles [30 charges left] (450), Potion of cure light wounds (50), 50 Silverpieces (5) and the most prized possession: 20 arrows (1) (total worth 673 gp).
LLMadCow 02-16-05, 07:07 PM	Oz looks around the cavern. The bow is part of the reason he came here. It is part of the truth behind the mystery. Oz spends some time cleaning up the temple and then he takes some time to focus his attention and kneel and pray before each statue. Those he recognizes, he prays to by name, and those he doesn't he prays to none-the-less.
Caterane 02-16-05, 07:15 PM	Oz still had something to do before going to bed: the Vesta Cu. He couldn't leave the bow of his faith here in this temple but that was easier said than done. The huge ranger statue held the bow in a firm grip that left no room to even move the weapon. There was also the altar with the bronze brazier on it.
Caterane 02-16-05, 07:23 PM	http://home.arcor.de/caterane/Quests/AbandonedTemple14.jpgAfter some hours of gathering woods and vines he finally managed to build a fragile makeshift ladder which enabled him to reach up to the bow. But as expected, the bow didn't move an inch and all the hour long work was for naugh. As he walked down it occured to him that the crates in the northern section would've probably been the easier way than to reach the bow...
LLMadCow 02-16-05, 07:36 PM	Oz examines the statue and decides to light some incense in the brazier.
Caterane 02-16-05, 07:38 PM	As a hint, note that the bow costs 300 gp more than your total quest reward should be worth
LLMadCow 02-16-05, 07:43 PM	Oz kneels at the alter in front of the ranger and offers up his bow. Oh heavenly Ranger, I have come here, to this holy temple, at a great cost, to seek enilghtenment and the holy bow, Vesta Cu. I have little to offer you but my continued service for the greater good and I give you my bow, that you never go without.
Caterane 02-16-05, 07:50 PM	http://home.arcor.de/caterane/Quests/VestaCu.gif Oz held out the bow and lowered his head while praying to his gods clique. A few moments, nothing happened and he already began to look up when he heard a cracking sound, like stone grinding on stone. He looked left right, behind him, nothing. When he turned around again, his heart almost stopped! The ranger statue moved!! It's stony eyes began to blink and focus on Oz, then it lowered its own arms, one grabbed the bow from Oz hand and the other hand offered the Vesta Cu. Oz was still kneeling openmounthed but finally he took the magical bow. The statue however was already back in place.
LLMadCow 02-16-05, 07:55 PM	Thankyou. Oz spends many minutes kneeling before the statue before finally standing. Oz takes a deep breath and begins to gather his things.
Caterane 02-16-05, 08:09 PM	http://home.arcor.de/caterane/Quests/Ghost1.jpg "Do not say thank you" a hollow voice said from behind. It sounded somewhat melodious but absolutely aritificial. The sound of the voice let Oz blood freeze. He turned around and if the voice was already intimidating, the scene he found himself into was almost more than his mortal heart could bear. Six ghosts hovered in a semi-circle next to the central statue and fixed their undead gaze on him. "With the Holy Bow comes great responsibility. You are not the master but a servant." one of the ghosts said. He resembled an elf in a robe, perhaps a wizard once but that wasn't too clear with his transluctent shape. "Only those who are worthy may wield the Vesta Cu"
LLMadCow 02-16-05, 08:19 PM	I have been a servant as long as I have worn the holy robes. Why should the Vesta Cu change anything? I sought the bow to enhance my abilites. I sough this temple to find answers. Do you have the answers that I seek? I wear this symbol around my neck, but it is only a representation for what I believe; it came to me in a dream, but I have never seen it since. Please, give me direction that I may follow and be of greater service to all those who I venerate.
Caterane 02-16-05, 08:29 PM	http://home.arcor.de/caterane/Quests/Ghost2.jpg "You know nothing, human!" another, grimmer ghost said "You know nothing about what it means to wield the Vesta Cu. The best and worthiest elven champions had to endure decades of tests to prove themselves, and every single one of you would have striken you down in one stroke!" The ghost paused a bit while trying to judge you. His immortal gaze seemed to penetrate your skull and scan your head for your soul. "However, you could pass the wards of this temple savely. Perhaps the Elders did not think that a human would enter this holy site but it might also be that they took this into consideration. I cannot explain why but we must not question the wisdom of the Elders in whom they keep out. But even if you are not barred, YOU definately need to prove yourself first"
LLMadCow 02-16-05, 08:34 PM	I can only prove myself through the life that I live. What more do you ask of me? What more can I do to prove myself? I humbly seek my place in this world...
Caterane 02-16-05, 08:43 PM	http://home.arcor.de/caterane/Quests/Ghost1.jpg "And you think that's enough?" the grim ghost said in an angry tone but just as he wanted to talk on, the first ghost interupted him "I think he should be given a chance to prove himself. He may be a human but it is nowhere written that it must be one of our kind who wields the bow." the ghost explained, more to his fellow ghost than to Oz. "Hear me, Oz Savage. Take the bow with you and prove yourself to be worthy. Know that the requirements are high and the test will be a long and hard one but if you pass the test you will be called 'Servant of the Bow' and rightful owner of the Vesta Cu until your days are at an end."
LLMadCow 02-16-05, 08:50 PM	I live to serve. May the gods find me worthy to be a champion of justice and all that is good in this world.
Caterane 02-16-05, 08:58 PM	http://home.arcor.de/caterane/Quests/Ghost2.jpg "Not so fast!" the grim ghost said. "You do not think that we will let you go like that with a few human words of assurance? No, we are not finished yet. We are the guardians of this temple and of the Holy Bow in particular. Where the bow goes, so do we! I will accompany you on your way. I will inhabit the Vesta Cu, and watch. I will watch and judge you and your actions and if I see the slightest unworthy action, your time will be over!"
LLMadCow 02-16-05, 09:06 PM	As I said, I live to serve. Accompany me as long as you wish. You will find that I am human, but I put my heart into serving. Is there anything you can tell me about the Streit'Hahn? Is it real?
Caterane 02-16-05, 09:07 PM	http://home.arcor.de/caterane/Quests/Ghost1.jpg "Wait, brother. Let me go. I have been to the lands of the humans in the past and I am more familiar with their customs." the first ghost said. After a short moment, and after looking to the other ghosts who nodded in agreement with a 3-2 majority, he adressed Oz again. "Oz, I will be your judge on your journey. I am not going to help you but watch you and your actions. I will also supress much of the Vesta Cu's power until you fulfill your duty. I may give you advice on your journey from time to time but it will be you who makes the decisions." Before Oz could reply, the ghost sped forward with blinding speed and vanished completely within the bow. A second later, some of the glowing runes stopped to glow, and the sparkling bow string sparkled no more. Oz knew that the bow had just lost a good portion of its abilities and he wasn't sure if he liked it to have a ghost with him all the time but at least it was the nice one. Oz wanted to say goodbye but the remaining five ghosts had already vanished. He was again alone in an ancient temple...
Caterane 02-17-05, 06:44 AM	After an extensive rest Oz was ready to depart. He had to prove himself. He knew that this required an active part, perhaps another quest? Surely, helping grandmas over the street or praying to the good gods wasn't enough. But what exactly did the Guardians have in mind for him? Perhaps another Pilgrimage? The more Oz thought about it, the more convinced he was that it had something to do with this holy site. Not just the temple but the whole center of worship. It was time to rekindle that flame that once burned so bright here. And so Oz arrived at the Gates of Gladius, with a new bow and many many deeds to accomplish. But this is another story... Congratulations MadCow, you have successfully completed the Quest. You have earned 2400 XP on your trip and you may keep any item listed in the Questlog (see first post of this thread). There you will also find a link to the Online Roller.
LLMadCow 02-19-05, 09:40 AM	Hey everyone! There is a lot that went into this quest that Caterane ran for Oz Savage. Some of it was frustrating and some was confusing, but well worth it and a good learning experience. This post is inteneded to offer some thoughts and recommendations for Quest Lords and players alike. Some information will be directed at one or the other, but most will be for both. I hope that you find this posting useful. To the Questlord and the Player AOL Instant Messanger, ICQ, and/or Yahoo Instant Messanger are invaluable tools when trying to get a quest done in a timely manner. When using maps, QLs should try to make some notes that describe the surrounds; more importantly, the player should ask lots of questions so that they understand their surroundings as the QL intended them. Try to talk to each other and arrange times when large portions of the quest can be run; Caterane and I managed it being hit or miss, but I was off for work for much of that time. When editing posts for anything non-cosmetic, be sure to let each other know what is going on. Caterane and I ran into some confusion about posts that had been changed and how they impacted the following post and so on. To the Questlord Try to be patient with the player; I know that Caterane was very patient with me and I am sure he got frustrated at times. Maps, maps and more maps. Caterane did an awesome job with his maps and they were very helpful. Maps do not all have to have the map coordinates listed, just being able to say 5 north and 3 east is enough. To the Player Ask lots of questions. Ask for descriptions of anything that might be confusing. When Oz was fighting the goblins, I did not realize that Oz was standing in ruins with short walls offering cover to the goblins. Had I known this, I would have acted differently. You can NEVER have too much gear. Oz should have had a wand of healing and a wide variety of poitions. Cover all of your bases. When posting a reply, post a quick and simple reply and then go back and edit for coloring and formatting and such. Caterane and I were able to move quickly that way. Make time for the quest. The quest would not be as exciting and colorful without interaction. It would be sad to just let the QL run each fight portion of the quest. Make colorful posts. The quests are alos about roleplaying and expressing your PC. I tried to make Oz vibrant and interesting. That's about it for now. Any other comments I have will be made in the Tavern, and edited in this post. Please feel free to ask any questions in the Tavern and I will be more than happy to address them. If I miss a question, just PM and point me to it. I will answer all questions. Brian AKA LLMadCow