Day 01 - Ambush in Ardeep

[DM Illithid]

[Francesca, Hani Aadouhn, Kilain Gravendak, Silvamir Grymm, Lellowyn and Poor William Woodholm begin here. All others are in Waterdeep.]

Francesca was adamant. Sparrow looked over the map and letters thoroughly. A carvan of treasure moving from the High Moor to Waterdeep.

Banditry was not the forte for this band of would be heroes and misfits. Not that it was out of the question. Mercenaries did what they were paid for, provided their conscience doesn't prevent a contract.

Francesca had an employer that wanted a caravan looted and burned. A drastic message for sure. And mysterious employers always turned out to be something nasty like a Red Wizard or Zhentarim agent. But your bodyguard job for the ten-day fell through. It's not like a scheduling conflict was preventing a rare oppurtunity to make Francesca happy.

With a shrug, the group agrees.

And two days later find themselves nestled between trees and shrubs at the outskirt of Ardeep Forst, a two day ride from Waterdeep. The forest was once home to elves, an old tale not lost on a group of mercenaries hiding amoung its canopy. The feel of sylvan eyes on your back is hard to shake.

The 'perch' is an old haunt of Silvamir's. The main road crests a hill near the ruins of an old stable. The timber and stone of some enterprising stockman's ambitions are long past repair. His only lasting contribution to the countryside is a deep well used as a waypoint for carvans and the Waterdeep patrols.

Sparrow claims no patrol is scheduled for the evening. You felt it best not to ask how she knew. It was no doubt a long tale involving your past companion the 'Raging Plumber.' She spends far too much time with that man...

Francesca's letters left the identify of the caravan easy enough. Two wagons and six mounted guards. Looks like they took on a pair of travelers. The odd pair keep to themselves and don't interact with the guards. The caravan came to rest as planned an hour ago. Dusk opened half an hour ago. So did a tankard of ale for the guards. A fire's been cast and the song of drunken men falls like clockwork.

You love it when a plan falls together.

[You're ~200 feet from the caravan. I'm assuming you are NOT mounted, and the horses are over the next hill. Maybe 3 rounds of running to get there. Francesca has more info on the employer and job - I'll let her elaborate.

I've adjusted the fight for the number of folks present. Remember, if those guards drop like flies its PERFECTLY normal. A low budget coster would hire exactually these sorts of guards for a small shipment of crops or sundries. Baskets or leather straps by the looks of it. If its holding treasure, they're being discreet.

And you're up...]

[Francesca]

Francesca watches as the riders draw nearer, figures becoming clearer in the dust of hooves and wheels.

"That will be them. Remember, my friends, burn everything and use whatever force is necessary to overcome the guards. And, for the record, it is business, not personal. The cargo of this caravan represents a clear and present danger to Waterdeep. That should be sufficient information for now, and more than enough cause to see it destroyed."

[Poor William Woodholm]

Poor Will carried the guardsmen’s tune in a whisper. He stayed put, crouched against a young elm, half hid in night shadows, and he gestured towards the camp with an arrow. “If that caravan is a threat to the whole sleeping city it's a worse threat to us. Witchcraft can burn those wagons from this safe spot easy enough, unless Aadouhn says otherwise. Let the farmhands run away and I'll sweep the ashes up after.”

[Silvamir Grymm]

"That will be them. Remember, my friends, burn everything and use whatever force is necessary to overcome the guards. And, for the record, it is business, not personal. The cargo of this caravan represents a clear and present danger to Waterdeep. That should be sufficient information for now, and more than enough cause to see it destroyed."

Silvamir scowls, watching the riders' approach. The idea of looting and burning a caravan did not sit well with the elf warrior. It was only under the assurances that this cargo represented a clear and present danger to Waterdeep that he agreed to help.

"I've a bad feeling about all this," he says. "This cargo...it looks like nothing more than baskets and leather goods from here. Are you certain this is the right caravan?"

"And what of the two figures traveling with them?" he points. "Those there, standing apart from the guard detail. There was no mention of them in your description, Francesca. They could be wizards for all we know. Are you certain this employer of yours can be trusted?"

[Francesca]

Francesca looks at Silvamir as they wait for the caravan to draw closer.

?The innocent and benign appearance of the caravan is part of their ruse. I assure you, this is the correct caravan and their cargo must be prevented from ever reaching Waterdeep. My source is completely credible, has never guided me incorrectly, and has my total confidence. Have faith, Silvamir.?

[Silvamir Grymm]

?The innocent and benign appearance of the caravan is part of their ruse. I assure you, this is the correct caravan and their cargo must be prevented from ever reaching Waterdeep. My source is completely credible, has never guided me incorrectly, and has my total confidence. Have faith, Silvamir.?

Silvamir considers the woman's words, his eyes never leaving the approaching riders. "I hope you are right," he says, clearly troubled still. "If you are certain, then you can count on me to do my part. The caravan will be stopped."

Turning his gaze back to Francesca then William, he continues. "But the two strangers may simply be victims of circumstance. They should be given the benefit of the doubt and spared if at all possible. Agreed?"

[Francesca]

Francesca shrugs.

"I care little about the guards themselves. They are not the objective of this task. If we can destroy the cargo without doing harm to the guards, I would be well pleased."

[DM Illithid]

[Kilain and Lellowyn are present. No word from Sparrow.]

[Kilain Gravendak]

"Francesca, You've never steered us wrong afor. Hurrrrrm If they be that dangerous then By The Greybeard They will fall!"

Kilain will set his pack down, beside his Maul on the ground and ready his crossbow kneeling on the ridge overlooking the caravan. He eyes the two seperate from the rest for any sign of weapons

Spot +3 (dont laugh guys...spotting isnt his forte)

[Lellowyn]

Lellowyn had been kneeling, taking stock of the situation and the words of her friends. She stands now, fingers curled around her staff lightly, the butt of which has been slipped silently down to the ground. Nyx, her purple scaled pseudo-dragon companion seems to whisper in her ear.

She cocks her head and speaks softly, "If your worries are the guards my dear Francesca, perhaps we shall announce ourselves and make it rrreal civil, hmm?" Her lips slither into a wide grin, and her eyes sparkle. Nyx mimics her expression and pose so well it's humorous and spooky, both at once.

[Francesca]

Francesca shakes her head.

"Like I said, I am not concerned about the guards. The end result must be that wagon and its contents in tiny, crispy pieces. Everything else is secondary."

[Silvamir Grymm]

Silvamir observes the camp below. "Alright then. Francesca? Hani? Have you spells capable of taking out the wagons from here?"

"The aim seems clear...to keep the caravan from ever reaching Waterdeep. William, do you think you can sneak into the camp and take care of their mounts. Scare them off or lead them away? If you could get some of the guards to follow you, that would be even better."

"Then Francesca, Hani, and Lellowyn could concentrate on the wagons themselves. Hit them with everything you've got."

"Kilain and I could circle around and make sure those two strangers don't interfere. I'm guessing the guards won't put up much of a fight...especially after the horses have been run off and the wagons are burning?"

"What do you think?" he asks, glancing at each of the others in turn, waiting for a reply.

[Poor William Woodholm]

Will regarded their lookout with some amusement. He was up in a moment, if a little stiffly, and he crossed around the dwarf’s back to catch him unawares. “You won’t see from here,” he chided and clapped Kilain upon the back.

With a nod to Grymm he crept off a ways. More afraid to be heard then seen, he stepped lightly and marked a path where the brush was thin.

Move Silently +4 (adjusted for a full 30’ move and undergrowth) and Hide +15, which should still put me too far away for a useful spot check?

[Kilain Gravendak]

"Let the Soulforger watch over you Willem"....Kilain stands grunting as he does so..."close quarters is it Silvamir? Im up for it."

He steps on the head of the Maul raising the haft so he grabs it up. leaving the crossbow for the moment. He eyes the caravan.

"You know I dont have the capability for mass destruction...except as a more personal type. heheheeh"

[DM Illithid]

[spot check for Kilian 11 + 5 - 40(distance) = -24 (fail; far as you can tell it's a pair of guys wearing cloaks to keep themselves from getting dusty.)

[move silent for William 13 + 4 + 34 (distance) = 50
hide for William 7+15 + 34 (distance) = 56]

William slips through the trees into the tall grass. You loose sight of him immediately. This is William's forte, and you expect spooked horses and a burning wagon in under ten rounds. You should begin moving within five to ensure there's something left for you to do.

[Poor William Woodholm]

William went thru the thicket quickly, crouched close by the horses, wiped his face and waited.

Four full 30' moves. Apologies, I should've adjusted my hide as well - Hide +10, Move Silently +10 (see email). Then one last 15' move to 35' away - Hide +15, Move Silently +15. And a spot check +13 (with a -1 or -2 for every 10'?)

[DM Illithid]

[Your a damn shadow in the grass. We get it ;)]

[Lellowyn]

"Ahh, I misunderstood what you said."

She nods in Silvamir's direction.

"Let us see if the boys can distract the guards away from the wagons so they do not have to die in the conflagration I am about to bring forth. I see little use roasting helpless people just making a living. It is against my nature, you know. So is being reduced to banditry, but I digress. We are where we are."

Lellowyn lapses into silence and stillness as she waits to see what happens. Arcane symbols and incantations fill her mind as she flits through the magicks resting in her memory. Nyx yawns and curls his tail into Lellowyns hair affectionately.


[How far are the wagons from each other, and how far are the guards / cloaks from the wagons?]

[Silvamir Grymm]

"Let the Soulforger watch over you Willem"....Kilain stands grunting as he does so..."close quarters is it Silvamir? Im up for it."

"You know I dont have the capability for mass destruction...except as a more personal type. heheheeh"

"It is my hope the guards will flee when they see their horses scattered and their wagons on fire," Silvamir says, taking a quick inventory of his equipment. "But some may require convincing," he says with a nod toward the dwarf.

"Let's get into position," he adds, then turns to the three mages. "Hold off until William makes his move. Give the guards a chance to chase after him...then let the wagons have it with everything you've got." With a final nod, Silvamir departs.

[Circle around and try to get as close as possible to the two strangers without making them aware of my presence.]

[Francesca]

Francesca drops into a crouch and, keeping low, scrambles generally toward the caravan.

Lady Mystra, bless your servant that she may serve you well.

[DM Illithid]

[How far are the wagons from each other, and how far are the guards / cloaks from the wagons?]

[Two wagons, maybe 30 feet apart. Guards are by a fire maybe 30 feet from the wagons. The strangers are sleeping (far as you can tell) next ot the first wagon.

I'm assuming the party is on the move, William reaches the wagons about the same time the party closes to 100 feet of the guards.]

[Poor William Woodholm]

It came to him while he lay hid in the tall grass, that he understood Grymm’s plan only in part, and none of its timing. And as he stalked the rear wagon, he searched fearfully above him for a comet or lightning. He came hurriedly to the rein rail, took a moment to steady the horses and climbed up.

Hide +15, Move Silently +17, Wild Empathy +9. On my next turn ride away with the wagon and the four horses tied to it.

[Lellowyn]

Lellowyn produces a crystal prism on a chain from her robes. She focuses on the prism as she swings it in an arcane pattern, it begins to trail colors. After a moment the trails billow out into a pattern of interlocking rainbow colors above the guards in a twenty foot radius.

With a wave of her hand, she sends the rainbow pattern down the road. If sensing she's about to lose her hold on the dweomer, she'll begin to walk in its direction.

A moment later, Nyx leaps from her shoulder and flaps through the trees. He glides down and perches on the wagon above where the people in cloaks are sleeping. Swishing his long tail silently, he peers around and looks for William.

"Bind them." The words form in William's head, small and playful.

[Rainbow Pattern (pg. 268 PHB) 20 foot radius, Will Save Negates, DC: 17]

[Kilain Gravendak]

Kilain follows Silvamir down the ridge and towards the caravan after collecting both his pack and crossbow.he makes his way slowly but steadily there because speed is not in his repitoire. He drops the pack and the crossbow them in the tall grass nearby as he crouches near waiting for Silvamirs nod that he was ready.

[Francesca]

Francesca keeps Silvamir in sight as she closes on the caravan, her hand on the hilt of her sword.

[DM Illithid]

The party makes way through what cover is available in the darkness towards the wagons. Progress is slow. William is a pro, and no doubt will distract the guards when the time is best suited. A voice nags the back of your mind. [i]He better be on time.

Hundred and Twenty feet. Hundred Feet. Eighty Feet. Sixty Feet. The rear wagon lurches to the sound of a startled horse. And takes off. The guards stand helpless for a startled moment, then run in pursuit.

Only to fall prey to a glow of light above their heads. Two guards are passed out, two are intoxicated but standing enthralled along with two sober guards.

The men in robes are nowhere to be seen.

[William is ~40 feet from his previous position, making way with a wagon and a slew of horses. Everyone else is fanned out, sixty feet from the guards.]

[Sparrow]

Where the hell are the cloaks?

Sparrow didn't dare give up her hiding spot yet, but she had to know. She knew Francesca wasn't counting on them being there, and neither had she.

She kept moving toward the caravan even as it moved toward chaos. She concentrated on staying out of sight and finding the cloaks. Nothing like a little wildcard in your game.

Ah, this kind of crap always got her charged up...

Hide +21, Move Silently +24, Spot +12. Sparrow will try and find the cloaks, but if an attack is necessary, she'll move into position and attempt a backstab. Hope that makes sense...

[Silvamir Grymm]

(I thought I was watching the cloaks. Did they vanish magically, slip away stealthily, or did I simply lose track of them while making my approach?)

Troubled at the sudden disappearance of the cloaks, Silvamir's hand drops to the hilt of the sword at his hip. "Stay sharp," he whispers to Kilain. "I've lost sight of the cloaks."

[Stay concealed, actively searching for the cloaks]

[DM Illithid]

(I thought I was watching the cloaks. Did they vanish magically, slip away stealthily, or did I simply lose track of them while making my approach?)

[You lost sight of the cloaks on two accounts. They were too far from the fire to be seen clearly. Also, you lost sight of the caravan several times while walking through the tall grass.

My bad for not explaining the approach bettter.]

Hide +21, Move Silently +24, Spot +12

[Hide 11+21=32 vs 11+12=23 and 17+12=29 (pass)
Move Silently 14+24=38 vs 13+12=25 and 9+12=21 (pass)
Spot 8+12=20 vs 40 and 40 (fail)]

Sparrow, having moved ahead of her companions to the wagons realized the disappearance of the cloaks moments before William began his distraction.

Sometime during Sparrow's movement towards the caravan, they vanished. The wagons are not the sort humans could hide in with comfort. And crossing from their bedrolls to the tall grass would have been difficult without detection, though possible.

No other hiding place presents itself.

[With the expection of William and Sparrow, the party are all within sight of one another. No, this is not about to turn into a scene from Jurassic Park 2.]

[Kilain Gravendak]

Kilain grumbles "I dont like it, something isnt right." and he moves out towards the encampment, watching the tall grass for movement, Maul at the ready.

"Silvamir watch my back, someone has to play goat...and it might as well be me"

[DM Illithid]

...someone has to play goat...

[And the Jurassic Park references continue...]

[Lellowyn]

Nyx peers around for the cloaks. He's annoyed that they fooled his extraordinary senses.

His draconic eyes pierce the darkness like a lighthouse beam, seeking out the slippery suspects.

[DM Illithid]

[Please state the ability and skill you want to use, like 'darkvision 60', spot +11']

[Lellowyn]

[Sorry, Blindsense and Darkvision, both 60']

[Poor William Woodholm]

Poor Will kept the horses at a steady cantor; he had no wish to be overtaken, nor anyway to regard the campsite back over his shoulder.

[Silvamir Grymm]

Kilain grumbles "I dont like it, something isnt right." and he moves out towards the encampment, watching the tall grass for movement, Maul at the ready.

"Silvamir watch my back, someone has to play goat...and it might as well be me"

Silvamir nods, silently stringing his bow. Drawing an arrow, he watches the dwarf approach the encampment, unwilling to reveal his own presence until they can determine the fate of the cloaks.

[DM Illithid]

[Ah. Hani and Sparrow are hiding near the edge of the tall grass. They traveled parallel to William via stealth and magic respectively.]

Lellowyn surveys the resting place of the two cloaked men. Twin depressions remain in the soil, evidence to their existance. Their current whereabouts are unknown.

Lellowyn closes her eyes, focusing on the presence of anything unseen. Five companions surround her. Francesca, Kiliam, Silvamir, Hani and Sparrow. She opens her eyes. Sparrow and Hani are supposed to be nearer the clearing.

The attack happens without warning.

Two men materialize, as though having been invisible. Each wears a topknot and trappings of a cloistered life. Their materilization is obvious, as each opens their hands in a gesture of spellcasting. They are 15 feet from the party.

[Monk1 casting Slow]
Francesca Will vs DC17, 11+13=24 (pass)
Lellwyn Will vs DC17, 8+7=15 (fail; one action per round, -1 to AC, -1 to ref, -1 attack)
Kiliam Will vs DC17, 14+9=23 (pass)
Silvamir Will vs DC17, 12+4=16 (fail; one action per round, -1 to AC, -1 to ref, -1 attack)

[Monk2 casting Blindness on Lellwyn, his eyes are glowing blue]
Lellwyn Fort vs DC16, 11+3=14 (fail; Lellwyn is blind)

[Initiative]
20 Hani (30' distance, unaware of combat)
18 Monks
17 Francesca
16 Silvamir
13 William (100' distance, unaware of combat)
12 Kilian
11 Lellwyn
8 Sparrow (30' distance, unaware of combat)

[Hani is up, you hear the sound of combat in the grass in the direction of your friends. You can get there and still act this round.]

[Hani]

She is quick to rush to their aid, she'll move only a little closer, close enough that she can see her targets before she unleashes her magic, weaving her spell before unleashing it at the enemies

Fireball with Energy Subsitution: Lightning

[DM Illithid]

...before she unleashes her magic...

[Hani - What's the Ref DC and damage? Please post the mechanics whenever possible.

Silvamir - You posted while I was composing, the monks attacked before Kilian left the group. Sorry!]

[Hani]

.
I beileve the DC would be 17

[DM Illithid]

Fireball (electric), DC17, 9d6

A flash of light later and a peel of thunder accompany Hani's appearance amoung the grass. Both monks are consumed with the crackle of electricity. And both appear unfazed, after an acorbatic leap or two.

[Ref 12+11=23 (pass), no damage (Evasion)
Ref 8+11=19 (pass), no damage (Evasion)]

Close to Francesca, grapple attempt. No AoO. +11 to hit, +6 to grapple

Monk1 closes on Francesca, grapping her arms and spinning her about. She is grappled, though not pinned.

[grapple attempt 11+11=22 vs AC 11 (hit), grapple 13+6=19 vs 14+1=15 (pass; Francesca is grappled)]

Five foot step towards Kiliam. Move action to extend arms to ten feet, single unarmed strike. Stunning Fist (DC18), not that I expect it to work on a dwarf. +11 to hit, d8+3 damage.

Monk2 steps a foot towards Kilian. His hands, a jet black contrast to his body, extend the remaining distance where he strikes Kiliam. His blow is solid, and although his will is strong, Kiliam appears unfazed. A mere flesh wound to the dwarf.

[Unarmed Strike (stunning fist), 8+11=19 vs AC 18 (hit), 6+2+1=7 damage (Fort DC 18 or be stunned)
Fort 9+12=21 vs DC 18 (pass; Kilain is NOT stunned)]

[Francesca is up, you are grappled.

Everyone is a reasonable 5 feet from each other save for Sparrow and William. AoO is not a concern except when closing on Monk2.]

[Francesca]

Francesca is shocked by this man's behavior.

"Did your mother not teach you it is impolite to place your hands on a woman without permission? Try this!"

The cleric attempts to jam a knee or foot into her attacker's groin.

{Base Attack +6 + 1 Str}

[DM Illithid]

[Base Attack +6 + 1 Str]

Francesca struggles with her assailant, failing to cause him anything more than to keep up with her struggle. He is frustratingly calm about the entire situation.

[Grapple 11+1 = 12 vs 13+6 = 19 (fail; unable to attack)

Silvamir is up, one action per round, -1 to AC, -1 to ref, -1 attack]

[Silvamir Grymm]

Silvamir scowls as he watches the scene unfold. This was not going to be as easy as they had all hoped. Of course, it never was. Raising his bow, he takes aim at the first monk. But before he can fire, the man closes in on Francesca. With the cleric and the monk locked in a grapple, Silvamir hesitates. He had been overcome by an intense sense of sluggishness just as the monks reappeared. He sensed it was some kind of magic, but regardless of the cause, he did not want to risk hitting Francesca.

Instead, he redirects his focus at the second monk, just as the man lands a solid blow against the dwarf. Taking careful aim, he lets his arrow fly.

[Attack +10; Damage 1d8+4; 19-20/x2 critical]
(I already adjusted the attack for the slow penalty)

[DM Illithid]

[Attack +10; Damage 1d8+4; 19-20/x2 critical]
(I already adjusted the attack for the slow penalty)

Silvamir pulls back his bow, aiming as though in pantomined slow motion. His arrow flies true, poised to strike the monk. Aware of the attack, the monk slices an elongated arm toward the arrow, sending it careening past into the tall grass.

[attack 8+10=18 vs AC 18 (hit), deflect arrow feat, no damage

William is up, but not present. You heard and saw an explosion 100 feet away. None of the guards are pursuing you. Feel free to act.

Kiliam is up]

[Kilain Gravendak]

Kilain smiles at the monk in front of him and says "I knew I wouldnt have to wait long afore youse showed up....Have At Thee Then!"

He steps in swinging The Anvil of The Greybeard twice

5 foot step and +12/+7 to hit... d10 +4 damage ...crit on 20 X3 damage

[DM Illithid]

[5 foot step and +12/+7 to hit... d10 +4 damage ...crit on 20 X3 damage ]

[Sorry for any confusion here. The monk with the long arms is positioned to force an AoO, meaning Kilain moves ten feet. I'm giving him a full attack to make up for a poor description, but the monk gets his AoO.]

Kilain moves in past the monks long arms, greeted only by a swift kick to the shin. Wincing at the pain, the dwarf swings his Axe (?) past the monks defenses, leaving a visible wound.

[Monk2 Unarmed Strike, 11+11=22 vs AC 18 (hit), 7+3=10 damage to Kilain
Kilain Axe 8+12=20 vs AC 18 (hit; 7+4=11 damage to Monk2)
Kilain Axe 10+7=17 vs AC 18 (miss)]

[Lellwyn is up. You're blind. And under the influence of a [i]Slow[i/] spell.

Initiative]
20 Hani
18 Monk1
18 Monk2 (10)
17 Francesca (grappled)
16 Silvamir (slowed)
13 William (100' distance, unaware of combat)
12 Kilian (18)
11 Lellwyn (slowed, blind)
8 Sparrow (30' distance, unaware of combat)

[Lellowyn]

"Bothersome creatures!" she hisses.

Lellowyn, through a haze of sluggishness, recalls a very well known spell to her lips now, and begins a few gestures that will rid her of the malady of sightlessness. She concentrates to make the correct movements through the molasses around her.

[Casting Dispel Magic vs Blindness; +9]

[DM Illithid]

[Casting Dispel Magic vs Blindness; +9]

Lellowyn begins a spell to end her inability to see. The monks' strength in magic proves stronger than Lellowyn's ability to dispel it.

Nyx, understanding the situation only too well, telegraphs willingness to be her eyes.

[caster level check 6+9=15 vs 10+6=16 (fail)

Sparrow is up.]

[DM Illithid]

[Hmm, thought Sparrow was back from vacation.... She'll hold.

Initiative - Round 2
20 Hani
18 Monk1 (grappling)
18 Monk2 (10)
17 Francesca (grappled)
16 Silvamir (slowed)
13 William (100' distance, unaware of combat)
12 Kilian (18)
11 Lellwyn (slowed, blind)
8 Sparrow (30' distance)

Hani is up.]

[Poor William Woodholm]

Hearing an explosion, Poor Will flinched and stopped. He scrambled up from the driver?s seat and began to search the wagon, roughly, and a little bitterly, fearing what he would find.

Search +2

[DM Illithid]

Search +2

William rummages through the wagon looking for anything of value. Nothing but leather goods. Then again, these are nice bags. William picks one up, at random... [pm to William]

[search 20+2=22 (nat 20)]

I do nothing

[Great!

Round 2]

Grapple for damage +14/14, d8+3 damage

Monk1 continues his grapple of Francesca, and begins slamming her against the ground with his head and fists as she struggles against him.

[grapple 9+10=19 vs 11+1=12 (pass; 6+3=9 damage)
grapple 13+10=23 vs 15+1=16 (pass; 4+3=7 damage)]

Unarmed Strike +10/10, d8+3 damage

Monks 2 begins his assault on Kilian in earnest, stunning the dwarf.

[Unarmed Strike (stunning fist), 11+10=21 vs AC 15 (hit), 4+3=7 damage (Fort DC 18 or be stunned)
Fort 5+12=17 vs DC 18 (pass; Kilain is stunned)

Unarmed Strike, 13+10=23 vs AC 15 (hit), 8+3=11 damage (Fort DC 18 or be stunned)]

[Initiative - Round 2
20 Hani (holding initiative)
18 Monk1
18 Monk2 (11 damage)
17 Francesca (grappled, 16 damage)
16 Silvamir (slow)
13 William (100' distance, unaware of combat)
12 Kilian (28 damage)
11 Lellwyn (blind, slow)
8 Sparrow (30' distance, unaware of combat)


Francesca is up, you are grappled. and getting the snot beat out of you.]

[Francesca]

{Tough to do much when you're grappled AND weak}

Francesca bites which ever hand is closer to her mouth that is holding her head and clamps down hard.

[DM Illithid]

{Tough to do much when you're grappled AND weak}

Francesca does her best to kick and bite her assailant. Sadly, to no avail. It occurs to her this man wrestles crocdiles for fun. Really big crocodiles.

[Be awfully nice if one of your teammates helps out, cough cough.

Silvamir is up.]

[Silvamir Grymm]

The arrow flew true, but the monk swatted it away like a harmless gnat. Letting his bow drop to the ground, Silvamir charges into melee, doing his best to close the gap between himself and the monks.

The dwarf seemed to be holding his own, but Francesca was clearly in trouble. Closing in on her attacker, Silvamir magically summons a flaming greatsword to his hands, just in time to bring the enchanted blade to bear upon the monk.

[Attack +18; Damage 2d8+1d6+8; 19-20/x2 critical]

(The +18 includes +2 flanking)

[DM Illithid]

[Attack +18; Damage 2d8+1d6+8; 19-20/x2 critical]

Silvamir raises his blade, both screaming and running in an odd pantomine of motion toward Francesca's attacker. His blade strikes true, cleaving a deep gash into the man's shoulder blade. The effect is noticeable, and the monk's attention wavers as the blade strikes.

He is near death.

[attack 19+18=37 vs AC 14 (hit, possible threat),
threat 11+18=27 (hit, critical) 3+7+4+8 + 4+6+3+8 = 43 damage

[William and Kilian are up...]

[Kilain Gravendak]

Kilain had ran in swinging, his maul connecting soldily once, only to have this black armed brigand kick him solidly in his dwarven jewels. a grown escaped the dwarfs bearded visage and his eyes crossed as he muttered through drool covered lips..."Ye'll be payin for that 'un baldy uhhhn"

[DM Illithid]

[Lellwyn is up; you are blind and slow. The gods hate you.]

[Lellowyn]

[Yes, they certainly do!]


Lelllowyn had muttered something about cursed monks as her spell failed to decontstruct the magic barrier affecting her sight.

Now she calls Nyx to her shoulder and attempts to use his eyes as hers through the bond they share. Seeing what condition Francesca is in, her hands come up to unleash a volley of magic missles at Francesca's opponent. "Dodge this, mettlesome man!"


[5d4+5]

[DM Illithid]

[Magic Missile, 5d4+5]

Five shards of light leap from Lellowyn's hand, piercing the Monks calm veneer. His eyes go wide as his reality catches up to his logical mind. He falls to the ground.

[Sparrow and Hani are up...]

Initiative - Round 3
20 Hani
18 Monk1 (dead)
18 Monk2 (10)
17 Francesca (grappled)
16 Silvamir (slowed)
13 William (100' distance, unaware of combat)
12 Kilian (18)
11 Lellwyn (slowed, blind)
8 Sparrow (30' distance)]

[Hani]

Her initial attack had little effect, so Hani switches tacts, and spells, this time releasing red rays of fire at the remaining threat

Scorching Ray. DC 16

[DM Illithid]

[Scorching Ray. DC 16]

[Scorching Ray doesn't allow a saving throw. I need your ranged touch attack. I'm assuming you have two rays at 4d6 fire each.]

[Hani]

Right right +7

[DM Illithid]

Scorching Ray(2) +7 4d6

Two rays of fire streak forth from Hani's outstretched hand, burning the remaining Monk severely.

[ranged touch 11+17 = 18 vs AC 14 (hit), 17 fire
ranged touch 8+7 = 15 vs AC 14 (hit), 14 fire]

Monk2 bows in respect to his adversaries, "My work is complete." He retracts a clawed hand and slashes his own throat, falling lifeless to the ground.

[combat is complete.
PM to William]

[Lellowyn]

The man's statement and the sound of his body slumping to the ground was enough to tell Lellowyn what had happened. That didn't make it any easier to understand though.

"Is everyone alright? This is most embarrasing, I've been blinded, and was unsuccessful at my attempt to unravel the spell. On the bright side, I believe the content of the wagons was unscathed, so we should be able to see what the important contents were. That should be interesting.

Oh, and let us not forget about the guards which were seduced away from their posts by my rainbow."

[Kilain Gravendak]

Kilain bends down to turn over the monk and look over his body saying

"Hrrrrrrrm, Im not likin this. It stinks of a set up. They held us here long enough to do what?.....look around and check things out. hrrrrrm It just doesnt sit right."

[DM Illithid]

Kilain bends down to turn over the monk and look over his body...

Both monks wear loose traveling clothes. They carried cloaks and bags earlier. You suspect you'd find them amoung the grass if you took the time.

The guards are readily subdued, tied and bound. The wagons remain unmolested as Francesca dispels Lellwyn's blindness.

[OOC, Monks rarely multiclass, and their monk level needs to be higher than their second class to continue advancement as a monk.

They used third level spells (slow and arcane sight), making them at least Wiz5/Monk6 or Sor6/Monk7.You doubt men of this calibur would sacrifice their lives merely as a distraction.

Another thing, I calculated their attacks wrong, they get a third attack. My bad.]

[Silvamir Grymm]

Silvamir looks over the scene, checking for any other signs of immediate danger. Sensing no immediate threat, he sheathes his sword and retrieves his bow.

"I share your concern, Master Dwarf," Silvamir replies. "Clearly these monks were not here by mere happenstance. Whether they were in league with the guards or sent by another party altogether remains to be seen. But they definitely had a purpose in mind. To distract us from something perhaps? But what? Let us check out the wagons and determine what exactly they were carrying before we set them aflame. Then I think we should have a word with our prisoners," he says, gesturing toward the bound guards with his bow.

[Poor William Woodholm]

As he heard neither further explosions nor any shouts, Poor Will steadied himself, and began to search the wagon a second time. Thinking of profit, he made a pile of the best of the leather work. And he unhitched the horses expecting Francesca still wanted her bonfire.

[Francesca]

Francesca stands on wobbily legs, trying to clear the pain from her mind. Walking toward the wagon, she pulls one of the fire beads from her necklace and lobs it at the wagon.

"My Lady, your will be done."

{Necklace of Fireballs....BOOM!}

[DM Illithid]

William, hearing one wagon explode decides it may be in his best interest to depart the other before it too goes up in flame. A nimble leap outside of the wagon, carrying no less than a dozen leather bags is rewarded by a second fireball consuming his recently occupied wagon.

[And yes, he looks damn near comical covered in leather bags. Like some kind of odd Golem the DM devised purely to play psychological head games with generally astout players. I can hear thoughts of 'What spells affect leather?' even now.

You have a dozen leather bags and two big bon fires for your troubles. And a half dozen guards, bound and gagged.]

One of the guards, a leader of sorts, exclaims aloud as the second wagon bursts into flames 'I'll be expecting repayment for that wagon m'am of the firery temper. Cost me a good years wages it did.'

[Silvamir Grymm]

One of the guards, a leader of sorts, exclaims aloud as the second wagon bursts into flames 'I'll be expecting repayment for that wagon m'am of the firery temper. Cost me a good years wages it did.'

Silvamir approaches the wagon to investigate the cargo, just as he said he was going to, when all of a sudden, the wagon explodes, nearly knocking him onto his backside. Thrusting forth his free hand, to shield his face from the intense heat, he turns back toward Francesca.

"It would have killed you to give me five minutes just to check it out?" he asks, slinging his bow over his shoulder and brushing some hot ash and splintered wood from his cloak.

When the leader of the guard speaks up, Silvamir spins around and quickly closes the gap between himself and the man. Reaching down, Silvamir grabs a handfull of the man's cloak and hoists him up onto his feet. "I think a year's wages should be the least of your worries right now," he says through gritted teeth. "Tell me all you know about those two monks and why they were traveling with you. When did they join up with you, and who were they working for?"

[Lellowyn]

One moment her vision was returned. The next minute had her almost wishing it would have stayed blighted for another moment or two. Almost. An irritated growl escapes her throat as she watched the flames.

"A little patience goes a long way. An extra few moments could have yielded some valuable information. Not to mention poor William was nearly incinerated, and by one of those silly beads! At least it looks like he recoverd something."

She approaches the guards and plants the butt of her staff on the ground. Her eyes consider the one who spoke while he replies to Silvamir.

[Kilain Gravendak]

Kilain begins to search the grass around where the monks appeared, remembering they had bags. He mumbles "hrrrrrm stonefree air-for-brains monks probably thought we were some kind of brigands...hrrrrrm" as he searches through the grass meticulously and slowly

He'll take 20 on his check if he can, 10 if he can't

[DM Illithid]

"I think a year's wages should be the least of your worries right now," he says through gritted teeth. "Tell me all you know about those two monks and why they were traveling with you. When did they join up with you, and who were they working for?"

The guard rolls his eyes. "Figures it does. Me and my men take honest work carting some wagon about and next we're being blown up by some two bit adventurers think we're out to do some bit o evil."

He spits on the ground, "Seems an odd thing though. Burning two wagons for a handful of leather bags? The wagons are worth more than what your companion," with a nod to our resident leather Golem, "there has about 'im."

He looks about, counting his men. "Monks? You mean those two silent chaps? Joined up with us a few towns back. Don't know a thing about them. They paid us a few loaves for the pleasure of their company and kept well to themselves."

[Lellowyn]

Lellowyn silently curses, wondering if they had been mislead and why, or if this man just wasn't aware of what he really had been transporting.

"So what exactly were you transporting, and where to?"


A few words form in her head, and she broadcasts them silently to her familiar.

Fetch a bag from William for me, darling.

[DM Illithid]

Nyx scampers off to the Bag Golem, taking one from him and returning promptly. It is, on first inspection, a leather bag of high quality. It's stamped with a symbol of some northern family.

The guard turns to yet another member of the brigands responsible for his capture and the destruction of his property. "Leather and grain headed for Waterdeep from Secomber. Got my papers for it in the wagon over there." And he points, to the best of his bound ability.

[Poor William Woodholm]

Will had heard enough talk and seen enough of the battlefield to draw conclusions. He shrugged off his pile of bags and came towards the guard captain. To start conversation he kicked the bound man over and then knelt hard upon him. “You’ve only just woken from a stupor so I forgive you your brave show and buffoonery. But I doubt you should like to puff out your chest against the point of my knife,” said Will and drew a dagger which, awful to see, he had treated with poison.

“Won’t find any papers in that char,” added he, “At least I saved your horses or most of them.” Two had been still hitched to the first wagon. “Careless to shelter strangers; those were a wicked pair. You’re lucky we came along…” saying this Will showed a cold smile and stood and looked each guard darkly in the eyes, “See if you can hold your tongues ‘til we’ve gone.” Whatever man was most cowed Will cut loose and paid three hundred gold, all he had. Then he started back thru the wood before it grew too dark to find their own horses. "What are you looking for Kilain?"

Intimidate +16

[DM Illithid]

[Intimidate +16 ]

William's words snaps something in one of the guards and he begins blubbering for his life. Sadly, he has absolutely nothing to add to the other guards' testimony.

They are either completely unaware of any contraband within their wagons or a half dozen rogues stronger in the mind-fu of their kind than even Poor William.

The second possability strikes you more comical than likely.

[Intimidate 11+16=27 vs 8+1=9 (pass)]

[Silvamir Grymm]

"This is a waste of time. Let's spread out and help the dwarf find those sacks the monks were carrying. Perhaps the contents will provide us with some answers. These men know nothing. And I'm beginning to think we've been sent on some fools errand for some unknown purpose."

"Leave the men be, we'll release them before we leave. It's clear to me they're as clueless as we are in this matter."

With that said, Silvamir heads to where he saw the monks last and begins to search through the terrain.

[Lellowyn]

Lellowyn takes the bag from Nyx and pets his head for a little while, cooing to him. She watches Will attempt to intimidate them, but frowns with frustration as it fails.

While the others search the brush for the bags the cloaks were carrying, she checks the bag diligently as she slowly makes her way back toward there horses. She felt a bit bad about destroying the guys wagons for nothing and wondered at what Francesca had gotten them involved with.

[Taking 20 on a search check to find anything hidden / odd / noticeable about the bags]

[DM Illithid]

[Taking 20 on a search check to find anything hidden / odd / noticeable about the bags]

Lellowyn looks over the bag with care, careful to review the seams along the inside and the few side pockets seen fit to adorn the exterior. She is confident this is a leather bag of moderate quality.


[He'll take 20 on his check if he can, 10 if he can't]
[With that said, Silvamir heads to where he saw the monks last and begins to search through the terrain.]

Kilain and Silvamir begin scouring the grass where the monks attacked, looking high and lo for signs of their assailants. Sparrow joins them, quick to employ a magic scroll to search for signs of magic. Sparrow's quick thinking proves useful.

Kilain and Sparrow together recover two bags and a quarterstaff. Silvamir turns up shortly thereafter, two robes and a half eaten loaf of bread in toe.

Sparrow identifies the quarterstaff as somehow dweomered and both bags contain something of a magical aura.

[Some DMs might be so cruel as to trap the bags. I wouldn't. But you don't know that. We now pause to let thieves check for traps.]

[Poor William Woodholm]

After he had lead back some of the party’s mounts, William took the discovered robes for sackcloth and began to wrap the two corpses. A slit throat was a wretched wound and bloody, and Poor Will handled that body reluctantly.

Then he gestured toward the guard he’d cut loose, “Would someone pay that man again; I’m taking his horse.” Soon enough he had the dead monks slung up. “I’ll need an illusion of some sort?” said he and frowned, "Or money for a bribe."

[Francesca]

Francesca surveyed the damage done and seemingly uselessness of all of it. What had she been brought here to do. It didnt seem like any of it had been for a good reason.

Lady, I trust in you. Lead me as you will.

Francesca moves to help the others.

[DM Illithid]

[Did we loose Sparrow and Hani?]

[Lellowyn]

Lellowyn smiles at William as he leads their horses back.

"I'm not sure that we really need to bring them back with us, but if you insist, we can probably think of something to get them inside the city. We should decorate our informant's quarters with them, I think. But we did carry out their wishes, so there is the issue of final payment. We should charge extra, for looking foolish," she finishes, with a look of distaste.

"Speaking of extra, you seem to require much coin my William, darling. Perhaps we shall look into the arts of Transmutation?" She grins and gives him a wink.

After patting her horses neck and tying the leather bag to her saddlebags, Lellowyn mounts up strokes her dragonlet while scanning the others.



Seems that way.

[Poor William Woodholm]

Will smiled in a rueful way at Lellowyn. “I’ve no love for a ledger, that’s sure,” said he. “As for my traveling companions, I now regret my earlier plans. They should be as welcome as any other countryside corpse. The bodies are free of pestilence; Francesca may vouch for it. I will mark these two for the City of Dead.”

“Only before I see them buried, I’ll introduce them to a priest in my acquaintance, a surprisingly immoral fellow, who for the right number of coins will start swollen, dead tongues a’wagging once more."

"If I haven't the gold for it now, well that's little trouble. Kilain will pay me off quick to have the stink out of our room."

[Kilain Gravendak]

Kilain grunts as hes holding the two bags and says over his shoulder "Ye'll not be puttin them bodies in our room there Willem. Im not partial to the smell of rottin flesh." and then Kilain opens the first bag peering inside....

[DM Illithid]

[Closing thread, moving everyone to Day 02 - Gates of Waterdeep' (http://plothook.net/RPG/showthread.php?p=52470#post52470)]