An owl hooted somewhere in the night, it's lonely call the only thing that Galudir and Nain could hear. There was no moon but the sky was clear and full of stars. This provided a very faint light which was both a benefit and detriment - the duo had a difficult time finding stealthy footing, but at the same time they didn't need to worry about being easily seen.
They came to the base of the ridge and proceeded to the eaves of the forest. The Dunnish lodgings were scattered about them and in the center of the settlement was the stockade, still guarded by four spearmen. Nothing stirred as they crept in and the guards around Nain's comrades did not take notice.
They were close now, but the question was, what to do?
In the stockade itself, Seriand looked at the fence. He could jump over it, it was so low. He could take the leather thong off that strapped the gate closed. Their prison was not secure - only the guards stood as a threat. If he jumped the fence, they would certainly engage him and more than likely call for aid. It would then become a situation of life and death? He wondered.
These were not orcs. They may not even be Men that had been dominated by the Shadow, though the Elf seemed to remember stories of some barbaric tribes who were enthralled.
"Can I justify slaying them to gain my freedom?" the Sindar asked himself.
He did not get an opportunity to answer his own thoughts when he noticed two shadows moving about some distance away. They moved from shadow to shadow and were working their way closer to the stockade. One was squat and Seriand knew it had to be the Dwarf that they had been traveling with, but who was the other?
OOC: I need stealth rolls from Galudir and Nain. I will use the results to roll opposed Observe tests. Thanks
With soft and smooth moves Seriand neared his closest companion and gently touched his shoulder. "The dwarf has returned, prepare yourself." He then moved about the stockade letting each of the captive know the same as he had said to the others.
Quote from: Wiseman on Aug 11, 2006, 04:31 PM
With soft and smooth moves Seriand neared his closest companion and gently touched his shoulder. "The dwarf has returned, prepare yourself." He then moved about the stockade letting each of the captive know the same as he had said to the others.
His faith in Nain was well-placed, thought Dirnhael.
He wished to help these people if possible, but remaining a prisoner was no longer an option.
Dirnhael thought about their weapons... if Nain might be able to get to them first, things would be much simpler.
He whispered as much to Seriand - perhaps they could send their companion a message before things became...
complicated.
Stealth Roll
(2d6)+2; 5+3+2=10
OOC: Can the guards see one another? Are they spread around the stockade or are they grouped at the gate?
Quote from: Stefan on Aug 14, 2006, 11:08 AMOOC: Can the guards see one another? Are they spread around the stockade or are they grouped at the gate?
OOC: I think it is going to be safe to say that Nain is the weak link in the stealthy chain, so I am going to go ahead and roll the Observe tests. Galudir still needs to roll just so I can get an idea of how quiet he was and if he could
slip away if the two are discovered.
Observe (Listen) TN 10Observe +3, Per +1
Roll(2d6)+4: 2,3,+4 Total:9 FAILED
Finally to answer the questions from Nain - see the attached picture to get an idea. Understand that the guards are kind of sleepy too.
OCC: I'm just waiting to see if Seriand signals to Nain about their weapons, I figure that would happen more quickly than Galudir would act.
First roll is 2,2. I'm going to use my first Scoundrel's Fortune.
Second roll is 3,4 +2.
Stealth Test:
2d6= 3,4
Scoundrel's Fortune(+2), Nimbleness (+3), Skill Ranks (+7), Furtive +1, Observe (Spot) Affinity +1
7+2+3+7+1+1= 21
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
OOC: Not much Seriand can do since there are guards between him and you guys, they'd see him for sure.
Seriand made sure that all the party was aware of their potential rescuers and then he stood up, may as well help out.
Walking to the guards the stood between him and the rescuers he tried to get their attention. "Kind sirs, my friends and I need water, we're parched and would appreciate if you would aide us since you will not let us go." Seriand hoped either they would come and talk or goto a hut and then be out of site while he got a message to his comrades.
Dirnhael shuffled his feet, finding a ready position as subtly as possible in case Seriand's distraction worked.
There were only four, despite the fact they were armed. Dirnhael was confident that these men would not present much of a problem to the Company, as Nain had returned and they would have the element of surprise.
But battle was not often quiet; too much noise and they would find the entire village upon them within moments.
When the move was made, Dirnhael thought, at least one or two of them must get to the tent that they had determined most likely to house their weapons - even leaving in the night without them would only prolong the inevitable.
Seriand was used to moving without sound, and Elves were light on their feet as it was. Perhaps they should try and retrieve their armaments while the Men dispatched the Men of this village, he thought.
He began to whisper his thoughts to Edrahil, knowing that his friend's ears could hear his words in the near-silence.
Nain whispers a silent prayer of thanks to the Great Forgemaster that they put the blind ones on watch for the evening. Then a voice comes from the stockade. Nain waits a moment to see if the guards turn.
Quote from: SeriandWalking to the guards that stood between him and the rescuers, he tried to get their attention, "Kind sirs, my friends and I need water, we're parched and would appreciate if you would aide us since you will not let us go."
The two guards seemed to jerk, as if wakened by the sound of Seriand's soft voice. The other two that stood on the opposite side of the stockade also took notice, though they did not make any movements towards their companions.
It was easily seen by the Elf that his words were not understood by the spearmen, but he did achieve his desire for both turned towards him and away from the two shadows that stood not far off. The guards spoke a few garbled words back to Seriand and brought their spears up in a semi-threatening manner, as if to say stand back from the fence.
Behind the group, the other guards kept a watch on the confrontation but held off on any actions... just watched.
Seriand took a step back from the fence and put his hand to his lips. "Water." A simple word followed by another action, that of drinking from a flask or a cup, hopefully they would get the picture.
Quote from: sdrotar on Aug 15, 2006, 06:45 AM
He began to whisper his thoughts to Edrahil, knowing that his friend's ears could hear his words in the near-silence.
[ooc curious about the mechanics here: is this type of communication two way?]
In his meditative state, Edrahil had not noticed the approach of Nain, but the words of Seriand and Dirnhael, as well as the stance of the others in the stockade, allowed the elf to understand what was about to take place. While his kin distracted the guards, Edrahil stood, approached Dirnhael casually so as not to attract attention, and responded in a whisper, "I do not agree with this course of action, but there is naught I can do to deter Nain. You know I will stand with the group whatever may befall, but we must be willing to accept the consequences of our actions. I do not believe these men to be held by the Shadow. What then are we to become if we attack, or worse, kill?""
Quote from: BrianM on Aug 15, 2006, 02:43 PM
Quote from: sdrotar on Aug 15, 2006, 06:45 AM
He began to whisper his thoughts to Edrahil, knowing that his friend's ears could hear his words in the near-silence.
[ooc curious about the mechanics here: is this type of communication two way?]
OOC: Brian, my post stems from some earlier voyages where it was determined that Edrahil could hear - and only hear - the Company members (and perhaps Dirnhael in particular, I don't remember exactly) from distances beyond normal.
Doug may have to shed some light on that, and if I'm mistaken - which is entirely possible - we can just scratch my last post from the record...
OOC: Yes, this is true - the prior player placed on each of the original company members the Calling spell. This allows them to call Edrahil in their time of need, though he may not be able to do anything about it.
As far as communicating back and forth, you either need Mind-speech or Far-speaking - the former allowing two way talk, the latter just able to send words.
The communication by Dirnhael right now would need to be via verbal words - quietly of course, but still verbal.
[ooc] Thanks for the info. I adjusted my note above accordingly.
Quote from: BrianM on Aug 15, 2006, 02:43 PM
Quote from: sdrotar on Aug 15, 2006, 06:45 AM
He began to whisper his thoughts to Edrahil, knowing that his friend's ears could hear his words in the near-silence.
[ooc curious about the mechanics here: is this type of communication two way?]
In his meditative state, Edrahil had not noticed the approach of Nain, but the words of Seriand and Dirnhael, as well as the stance of the others in the stockade, allowed the elf to understand what was about to take place. While his kin distracted the guards, Edrahil stood, approached Dirnhael casually so as not to attract attention, and responded in a whisper, "I do not agree with this course of action, but there is naught I can do to deter Nain. You know I will stand with the group whatever may befall, but we must be willing to accept the consequences of our actions. I do not believe these men to be held by the Shadow. What then are we to become if we attack, or worse, kill?""
"I understand," Dirnhael said. He shared his friend's concerns.
But the fact was that these men had captured them, taken their weapons, and held them against their will with little nourishment nor care for days. They may not be under the sway of the Shadow, but they were certainly not their
friends.
Though Dirnhael hoped to help them if possible, it was not fair to the rest of the Company for him to indulge himself at the risk of their safety.
"But it is still time to leave," he said, hoping that Edrahil could tell what was in his heart.
"Now."
[MODIFIED]
Nain was somewhat at a loss as to what to do next. He wanted to rush the guards but it was clear that the two on the far side of the stockade could see that two in front and could easily raise an alarm before anything could be done about it. His new companion was obviously more sneaky than he...Maybe something could be donw while they were distracted after all.
Carefully the dwarf leaned to the human and pulled him down so that he could share the plan.
"The rear guards are watching the front guards but no one is watching them. Lets take them out quickly while the front guards are busy. You take the one on the Northwest and I'll take he Southwest."
Nain waits for a nod then heads around the huts using all the cover that he can to circle around and get behind the SW guard. Once there (if not spotted already) he waits for Thermon to appear behing the other guard. He then whacks his guard on the back of the head with his axe and hopes that Thermon does something similar.
Stealth Roll
Roll (2d6)+2; 4,6+2=12 +3 =15 Spend 1 courage -1 for winded = 14
Armed Combat Roll (In case I get lucky again. Not sure how knocking someone out works)
Roll (2d6)+9; 3,4+9=16 -1 for winded, +2 for attacking Larger opponent = 17
OOC: Stefan - first of all, great post! I like Nain's thinking. Second, can you do me a favor and go to the RPG profiler website for your character and click on the details link. Once there, choose the button that accepts the invitation to join the campaign. This allows me to edit your online character sheet as needed. I appreciate it thanks.
To everyone - when you guys do a post that includes the use of Courage or there are some results in wounds or weariness, I need your character sheets updated. We can do this one of two ways: 1) you guys make the adjustments immediately; 2) I do it after I read your posts and audit the results.
Let's choose an option that best suits so that we are not doubling up the effects of a post. Your input is appreciated...
Lastly, I am loving the dialogue between each of your characters and the moral issues with the current situation. You guys are doing a great job of RP'ing these characters!
Fengel had stood next to Dirnhael and Edrahil, and at first the elf's comment infuriated him. He was hungery, dirty, tired, and still recovering from wounds, and these people did nothing to show concern for them. He normally didn't feel this way, but he wanted to scream at the elf. He could not understand concern for the unconcerned. Then, as if to break the anger that was overtaking him, Dirnhael spoke. He was glad that his leader was not getting too soft. With that he looked to Dirnhael for instuctions. "What plans Dirnhael?"
OCC: I suppose this will come after any quick dialogue amongst the people in the stockade. I would like Galudir to make a blunt attack using the pommel of his sword.
Stealth Test:
2d6= 5,5
Nimbleness (+3), Skill Ranks (+7), Furtive (+1), Observe (Spot) Affinity (+1)
10+3+7+1+1= 22
Armed Combat (Blades: Long sword):
2d6= 1,6
Nimbleness (+3), Skill Ranks (+6), Speciality (+2), Courage (+3)
7+3+6+2+3= 21
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Galudir offered a quick nod at the dwarf's plan, waiting for him to move first before moving around the nearby hut. Once Galudir saw Nain rush from the shadows he ran toward the guard, drawing his blade as he did so.
OOC: Thanks, I accepted the campaign and reduced the courage on my sheet as you requested. Sorry that I hadnt accepted it before, it slipped my mind.
By the way, that attack on the guard is supposed to be with the Side of the axe so that hopefully it wont kill him.
Quote from: Palandil on Aug 16, 2006, 12:12 PM
Fengel had stood next to Dirnhael and Edrahil, and at first the elf's comment infuriated him. He was hungery, dirty, tired, and still recovering from wounds, and these people did nothing to show concern for them. He normally didn't feel this way, but he wanted to scream at the elf. He could not understand concern for the unconcerned. Then, as if to break the anger that was overtaking him, Dirnhael spoke. He was glad that his leader was not getting too soft. With that he looked to Dirnhael for instuctions. "What plans Dirnhael?"
As Dirnhael was about to respond, the Dwarf and an unknown man rushed the guards, rendering any of what Dirnhael might have said moot. The two men, reflexes honed from battle, sprang into action with only a look of understanding between them.
OOC: Dirnhael will try to incapacitate the nearest guard as quickly and as quietly as possible. Is there a particular combat action I should take?
OOC: :D is there enough ruckus that Durgil didn't fall back asleep or not enough so that he continues to sleep?
Quote from: GandalfOfBorg on Aug 16, 2006, 10:06 PM
OOC: :D is there enough ruckus that Durgil didn't fall back asleep or not enough so that he continues to sleep?
OOC: I smell a comic relief scene coming! ;)
OOC: Hey you guys, I am sorry for the delay here. I have been so busy with work and by the time I get to sit down to relax in front of the computer, I want to go to bed! ::)
Anyway, I promise a post in the morning that will give an answer to all questions and results on actions taken.
Doug
OOC: First to answer the questions:
Quote from: StefanNot sure how knocking someone out works.
Okay, stunning/knocking out characters require a
'called shot' to the head which adds a modifier to the TN to hit. So, here is the breakdown:
Dunmen Spearmen Defence TN 15, Surprise for Nain and Galudir -3, Faint Light +3
= Defence TN 15Nain and Galudir hit and the Dunmen save against Stun effects TN 10 and 15 respectively
Stamina test TN 10 vs. NainRoll(2d6)+1: 6,2,+1 Total:9 FAILED
Stamina test TN 15 vs. NainRoll(2d6)+1: 4,5,+1 Total:10 FAILED
Quote from: sdrotarIs there a particular combat action I should take?
Hey Shawn, I need you to make the following test rolls:
Jump TN 7 - to climb and leap over the stockade fence
Unarmed Combat (Grapple or Wrestle) - I will roll an opposed test to this
*remember everyone, there is only faint starlightQuote from: GoBIs there enough ruckus that Durgil didn't fall back asleep or not enough so that he continues to sleep?
Durgil has not been getting sound sleep to speak of, so he would be aware of the talking going on around him and would most likely stir from Seriand's question and then the actions that are commencing.
Okay... now to the post! ;)
To be continued...
OOC: Alright then... so... plan B?
Quote from: tomcat on Aug 18, 2006, 12:51 PM
OOC: First to answer the questions:
Quote from: sdrotarIs there a particular combat action I should take?
Hey Shawn, I need you to make the following test rolls:
Jump TN 7 - to climb and leap over the stockade fence
Unarmed Combat (Grapple or Wrestle) - I will roll an opposed test to this
--
Jump (TN 7)
Roll(2d6)+2:5,6,+2 Total:13 - SUCCESS
--
Called shot to head - Unarmed Combat +5 (OOC: I'd better level up on this soon!)
Roll(2d6)+5:4,3,+5 Total:12
Instinct took over and Fengel followed Dirnhael over the fence. He hoped that they could overtake there captors with out being speared. His plan was to aid Dirnhael in taking out one of the guards and taking his spear as quickly as possible.
Jump TN: 7
jump +1; Str +1
Roll(2d6)+2: 4,5,+2 Total:11
Unarmed Combat
UC +1; Nim +1; Warwise +3; Brawl +2
Roll(2d6)+7: 2,2,+7 Total:11 +1 Courage = 14
Fengel is going to punch the living daylites out of the quard who hopefully will be concentrating on spearing Dirnhael.
Well he definitely sat up and took notice when his comrades made their move. More than willing to take up the action with them, Durgil was still to weak it anything more than a hindrance to their efforts.
Things began to happen in rapid succession. Seriand had watched as his attempt to distract the two guards achieved its desired goal. The two shadows in the night had moved into positions to attack the guards on the opposite side of the stockade.
Nain and Galudir both rushed out towards their intended targets but the longer legs of the man got him there first. The rogue swung with the flat of his sword towards one of the Dunmen. The attack was on target in the dark and struck the man on the back of his neck and shoulder. It still had the affect that Galudir wished, as the guard fell to his knees with an "Ooph!"
The stunned warrior's exclamation caused his companion to turn slightly at the sound but Nain's wide axe blade found the other Dunman's back of the head and he too crumpled to the ground.
Across the stockade, Dirnhael took the opportunity to use the confusion and leapt towards the fence. Jumping the barrier, he rushed in and smote one of the two spearmen that had been engaging Seriand with non-understandable talk. Fengel was not far behind; the Eothraim easily clearing the fence and rushing to assist his captain. He too landed a heavy blow to the unsuspecting guard and the man lurched back. Fengel pressed forward to assure that the Dunman would not be waking up again until the morn.
Initiative Roll:
2d6= 5,1
Initiative (+5)
6+5= 11
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Initiative: +3
Roll(2d6)+3: 2,4,+3 Total:9
Tomcat, did Fengel need to use that courage point, and if so did you mark that on the character sheet?
OOC: So if I fail at the called shot do I just miss or does he just not have to make that pathetic save? I mean seriously, 5? I have to make an 18 TN for something that he has at least an 85% chance of overcoming anyway? that makes it seem like I should just kill him. If I do normal damage on a called shot to his head it'll probably come off.
I think that maybe the TN should be like half of the damage that would have been done. B/c I'm pretty sure that me hitting someone on the head with an axe handle and a +4 Str mod is gonna be more likely to knock someone out than say a rogue with the pummel of a rapier.
That being said, other than being rude these people haven't really done anything evil so I'll just spend the courage and try to subdue him. Sorry for the delay. I hope it doesnt mess things too badly.
Initiative
Roll(2d6)+2; 2,2 +2=6
[ooc]
Initiative
Roll(2d6)+2: 5,4,+2 Total:11
[ic]
Edrahil waited calmly within the stockade beside Durgil as the warriors made their attempt to overwhelm the guards. As his magic would likely rouse the entire camp, he planned to wait to see if the guards could be subdued quietly. If not, and the camp was awakened, he dearly hoped that a display of power might subdue the Dunmen before anyone was badly hurt.
The elf also prepared himself to leap the fence in case any of his comrades got into trouble.
Next Round Initiative:
Roll(2d6)+2:4,3,+2 Total:9
Init: Roll(2d6)+2: 1,3,+2 Total:6 (Stoopid dice roller!)
His attempts to draw their attention no longer needed Seriand hopped the fence and rushed the nearest coherent guard. A kick to the midsection his indended strike...
Unarmed Combat: Roll(2d6)+4: 5,6,+4 Total:15
Quote from: Stefan on Aug 21, 2006, 11:57 AM
OOC: So if I fail at the called shot do I just miss or does he just not have to make that pathetic save? I mean seriously, 5? I have to make an 18 TN for something that he has at least an 85% chance of overcoming anyway? that makes it seem like I should just kill him. If I do normal damage on a called shot to his head it'll probably come off.
I think that maybe the TN should be like half of the damage that would have been done. B/c I'm pretty sure that me hitting someone on the head with an axe handle and a +4 Str mod is gonna be more likely to knock someone out than say a rogue with the pummel of a rapier.
That being said, other than being rude these people haven't really done anything evil so I'll just spend the courage and try to subdue him. Sorry for the delay. I hope it doesnt mess things too badly.
Initiative
Roll(2d6)+2; 2,2 +2=6
OOC: Yea, sorry Stefan but I think this part of the CODA rules is broken. Don't worry, I am going to give you some modifiers in the combat thread I am starting up.
Quote from: PalandilTomcat, did Fengel need to use that courage point, and if so did you mark that on the character sheet?
Hey Paul, I did not mark off that courage, but I just did. If you had done it earlier, just uncheck the one I did... sorry for getting back to you so late.