Hammerfall #2

[GM Mad]

Hammerfall #2


The dwarves continue their exploration of the cave system below the mine tunnels…

"I hadn't forgotten at all," Grondar replies with a smile. "That is why I had recommended that we remain right here, not moving around and generally being quiet. I also know that even the best-trained and most experienced make a mistake occasionally. Should you be ambushed or encounter dangers you didn't anticipate, it would be helpful to have backup within shouting range."

Shaking his head, Farian rests a hand on Salem’s shoulder, “Ye not be winning this argument.” Turning his gaze to Grondar, “Do as you wish but don’t be blaming us if something be happening to ya. We been doing this for sometime, probably when you were still young and naïve. A man of faith should at least have some faith in his scouts." he says with a wink.

“I can see that,” Salem answers shaking his head. “We’ll return shortly.”

“Ye be having some sense to ya, though your cautiousness is unwarranted.” Turning to Salem “I’ll take the left tunnel. Though they have to see us first.” He says with a chuckle and walks off with his warhammer at the ready and to prove his point turns on his invisibility ring.

“That leaves the right for me,” Salem notes as he skulks down the tunnel.


Farian goes down the larger tunnel while Grondar and Senoia keep watch with hands on weapons. Farian goes down the wider of the two passages. About thirty feet in another small tunnel opens up on his right. The main passage keeps going and grows wider. This leads to a larger area with multiple exits. No beings or creatures seem to be around, but something does attract Farian’s attention. The tracks he was following come and go butt the dirt gives over the stone many times. Near the center of the larger cavern he finds signs that this area was used as a camp. Several campfires were set here, but have long since gone cold. No one has been here recently. Satisfied that the immediate area is clear of danger, Farian makes his way back to the others.


Salem returns a few minutes sooner than Farian. His smaller tunnel led to a small cavern before continuing on in roughly the same direction. It appears that the beings that made the footprints just passed through this cavern. However he did find something of interest.

“The cave infested with Piercers.”

Most dwarves are familiar with piercers. Creatures that live on the ceilings of caves and then drop down on unsuspecting victims.

“There was a small pool of water there too,” Salem continues. “Otherwise, it was all quiet.”

Now what?

[farian]

Farian

Farian goes down the larger tunnel while Grondar and Senoia keep watch with hands on weapons. Farian goes down the wider of the two passages. About thirty feet in another small tunnel opens up on his right. The main passage keeps going and grows wider. This leads to a larger area with multiple exits. No beings or creatures seem to be around, but something does attract Farian’s attention. The tracks he was following come and go butt the dirt gives over the stone many times. Near the center of the larger cavern he finds signs that this area was used as a camp. Several campfires were set here, but have long since gone cold. No one has been here recently. Satisfied that the immediate area is clear of danger, Farian makes his way back to the others.


Making his way cautiously through the cavern Farian looks for any signs of recent passing. The footprints show little in the way or time. Moving further into the cavern Farian soon spots several campfires set and burnt. Moving to them and looking about he squats down and feels the soot, which has long since been cooled. Looking about the cavern Farian wonders just how long time has passed here. As nothing catches his eye farian turns back and moves to the others with his warhammer in toe.

“There was a camp within the cavern but no signs of recent passing. I saw no danger.”

Upon hearing of the piercers farian’s eyebrow raises, “No bodies?” he asks.

“I see no reason to stay down hear any longer then we have. These tunnels could never meet up with the main force, let us head back and report in.”

[Grondar]

Grondar:

“Ye be having some sense to ya, though your cautiousness is unwarranted.”

"It's kind of you to say so, though I would say that caution is almost always warranted when dealing with the unknown," Grondar replies.

The two scouts slip away, and Grondar is left waiting with Senoia for their return. Not wanting to make unnecessary noise, Grondar refrains from making conversation with the warrioress. Instead, he offers a silent prayer to the Revered Mother for their safety.

It is not long before they return. Grondar grins at seeing them both well.

“The cave infested with Piercers.”

Most dwarves are familiar with piercers. Creatures that live on the ceilings of caves and then drop down on unsuspecting victims.

“There was a small pool of water there too,” Salem continues. “Otherwise, it was all quiet.”

"Hmm... The piercers should serve to limit the traffic from that direction."

“There was a camp within the cavern but no signs of recent passing. I saw no danger.”

"Could you tell if this camp is or was used regularly, or probably just once?" Grondar doesn't really have an idea of the limits of what they can determine or not.

“I see no reason to stay down here any longer then we have. These tunnels could never meet up with the main force, let us head back and report in.”

"I would be inclined to agree. Let's report back to Aria and see what progress they've made in our absense. I would also like to be there in time to help in case any of them have been poisoned by those spiders."

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:

The dwarves have explored some of the caverns underneath the mines. They found the first cavern to be the home of at least two Cave Fishers. Then they found footprints suggesting a large group of drow passed this way before. Salem found a small cavern with Piercers living on the ceiling. Farina discovered another cavern that had been used as a campsite, presumably by the drow. From the looks of it, the campsite was only used once.

Upon hearing of the piercers’ Farian’s eyebrow raises, “No bodies?” he asks.

“Other than a few unidentifiable bones, no. It appears that they have not fed in a while and I wasn’t going to get close enough to ask.”

“I see no reason to stay down hear any longer then we have. These tunnels could never meet up with the main force, let us head back and report in.”

"I would be inclined to agree. Let's report back to Aria and see what progress they've made in our absence. I would also like to be there in time to help in case any of them have been poisoned by those spiders."

“All right, let’s head back,” Salem adds.

On the walk back to where you entered the caves, Senoia says, “We’ve only been here a few hours. Lady Aria instructed us to follow the lower mine tunnel and meet up with them should we not be too long. It seems to me that is what we should do next. Looks like we’ll get a little excitement along the way!”

The ropes are reached and the group begins their climb towards the roof of the cavern and the shaft above that. Fifteen minutes later, you’re at the lower mine tunnel where Farian and Salem ran into a swarm of spiders a few days ago.


GM Notes:

Going to follow the spider infested mine tunnel or go back up to the top mine shaft? If you’re going into the lower tunnel, what precautions are you going to take? What’s your marching order going to be?

Now what?

[Grondar]

Grondar:

“Other than a few unidentifiable bones, no. It appears that they have not fed in a while and I wasn’t going to get close enough to ask.”

"A wise decision, Salem. No need to take that risk."

On the walk back to where you entered the caves, Senoia says, “We’ve only been here a few hours. Lady Aria instructed us to follow the lower mine tunnel and meet up with them should we not be too long. It seems to me that is what we should do next. Looks like we’ll get a little excitement along the way!”

"That's true, though if Aria's group has done their job, there shouldn't be too much excitement left. Still, we should follow her instructions and attempt to meet them at the supply depot."

Before climbing the rope, Grondar makes certain to collect up any remaining torches as they may be useful up above. When they reach the top, Grondar peers down the tunnel before them, trying to guage how much success the others had in combatting the spiders.

"Farian, would you like to lead?" Grondar asks as he readies his crossbow.
___________________________________________________________
As I recall, Aria's group was tasked with clearing out the spiders and reaching the supply depot. If the spiders are still about in significant numbers, Grondar will likely be very worried for their friends.

For marching order, I would suggest: Farian, Senoia, Grondar and Salem.

Also, for some reason, I had been thinking that Salem was female like Senoia. Huh.

Silly Question of the Day: Is the "ow" in drow pronouned like in row or like in cow?

[GM Mad]

Also, for some reason, I had been thinking that Salem was female like Senoia. Huh.

Silly Question of the Day: Is the "ow" in drow pronouned like in row or like in cow?

I've noticed that, but Salem is a he.

We've always and still do say it like row, but I have heard the offical TSR take was like cow.

[farian]

Farian

"Farian, would you like to lead?" Grondar asks as he readies his crossbow.

“Aye but watch where ya be pointing that thing!?” Farian says in reply as he readies his war hammer and shield. Farian will lead them into the spider’s den.

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:


The explorers have left the natural caves and returned to the dwarven mines. As per Aria’s earlier instructions, they are going to try and catch up with the others.

"That's true, though if Aria's group has done their job, there shouldn't be too much excitement left. Still, we should follow her instructions and attempt to meet them at the supply depot."

“There still may be danger in this tunnel,” Salem adds. “Lady Aria and the others were taking the upper tunnel to reach the supply depot. We’ll be taking the lower one. We should have torches at the ready in case we come across the little beasties again. They swarmed us last time because we were unprepared.”

(Aria’s group went from areas #5 to #7 to reach #8. You’ll be traveling #5 - #6 - #8.)

Farian takes the lead, followed by Senoia, Grondar, with Salem bringing up the rear. About seventy feet into the tunnel you begin to see signs of spider webs. The sign of webbing continues as you go along, but most of them were burned away during the earlier exploration.

At last up ahead you discover webbing that has yet to be passed through. A torch is used to ignite the webbing and it rapidly burns. As before, a spider comes forth to investigate. It’s about the size of a small cat with its main body about 6” long! A few others follow it!

Torches and hammers make quick work of the spiders and soon you’re alone in the caves once more. No damage was taken.

“Invigorating, but not really satisfying,” is Senoia’s comment on the battle as she rubs spider goo off of her warhammers.


More webbing is meet as the group moves along, but no other spiders are encountered. Eventually the tunnel connects with the second supply depot. Numerous spider webs fill this large cavern as well. Aria, Oran, and Dougan are quickly located. The bodies of several giant spiders litter the cavern floor. These ones are actually bigger than you are!

The three dwarves are burning away more of the webbing and a thick smoke hovers over the chamber. Progress is slow as they are trying to avoid igniting any of the coal. This supply depot is in worse shape then the first one. The pulley system is there, but many of the buckets are damage or are completely missing. The ladder up is rusty and broken in spots.

Three exits are noted from the cavern in addition to the ones used to reach it. The first two are mine tunnels that lead away from this area at the ground level. The third is another feeder shaft that is used to deliver coal to this depot. It’s one hundred feet overhead. The coal is funneled down a chute before falling to the depot floor. Another iron-rung ladder leads up to this tunnel.

“Good to see you,” Aria says upon seeing you enter the depot. “What did you find down below?”


GM Notes:

The Dwarven Mine map has been updated in the private area. The caverns you just visited are area number 9.

Now what?

[Grondar]

Grondar:

“Aye but watch where ya be pointing that thing!?” Farian says in reply as he readies his war hammer and shield. Farian will lead them into the spider’s den.

"Of course, my friend," Grondar says with a grin. "I would only shoot at you if there were a spider crawling on you.

"But that couldn't happen..."

“There still may be danger in this tunnel,” Salem adds. “Lady Aria and the others were taking the upper tunnel to reach the supply depot. We’ll be taking the lower one. We should have torches at the ready in case we come across the little beasties again. They swarmed us last time because we were unprepared.”

Nodding Grondar hands out the torches he brought up from below to all who want them. "I don't think they'll find us unprepared this time."

And indeed they don't. The group works their way down the hall buring webs and squishing any remaining spiders they find. Fortunately, none of them are bitten along the way.

“Invigorating, but not really satisfying,” is Senoia’s comment on the battle as she rubs spider goo off of her warhammers.

"Sorry to hear that, Senoia. We'll endeavor to find you a satisfactory challenge. Perhaps when we go back after those cave fishers..."

Not long after, they reach the supply depot and encounter Aria's group. It appears that they faced challenges of their own, judging by the size of the nearby spider bodies. Unfortunately, this supply depot appears to be in bad shape. It will take a lot of work to get it back in working condition. Fortunately, dwarves are no strangers to hard work.

“Good to see you,” Aria says upon seeing you enter the depot. “What did you find down below?”

"Good to see you as well. Anyone in need of Berronar's healing touch?" Grondar scans the area for any sign of injured or poisoned personnel.

"We found a long, narrow cavern with three exits. The cavern had ledges on either side, which were inhabited by at least two cave fishers.

"Following the side tunnel we found a network of tunnels and smaller caverns. Farian discovered evidence of a party of drow having passed through some time back. We decided to return and inform you before proceeding."

[farian]

Farian

At last up ahead you discover webbing that has yet to be passed through. A torch is used to ignite the webbing and it rapidly burns. As before, a spider comes forth to investigate. It’s about the size of a small cat with its main body about 6” long! A few others follow it!

Torches and hammers make quick work of the spiders and soon you’re alone in the caves once more. No damage was taken.

“Odd.” He says wiping off his warhammer, “There were more the last time.” He says absently wondering if the others have infiltrated the other side of the depot.

Seeing the Coal depot in shambles but salvageable Farian realizes that the others did what they sought out to do. More so many great spiders lay about the ground. Spotting Aria, Oran and Dougan. He walks towards them,

“Seems you guys are having all the fun.”

“Good to see you,” Aria says upon seeing you enter the depot. “What did you find down below?”

"Following the side tunnel we found a network of tunnels and smaller caverns. Farian discovered evidence of a party of drow having passed through some time back. We decided to return and inform you before proceeding."

“A cavern with a large amount of piercers were found to though we did not venture within for obvious reasons. Grondar is mistaken, I saw a camp with evidence of elves passing, Drow if I’d wager my pay on it. There is no telling of how long ago it was used, could be a week or several months. The tracks were close together in the tunnels there was no way to tell of numbers but if I had to guess it was probably a patrol or raiding party, was a few dozen in the least, perhaps more. We would have scouted more but we didn’t want you walking blindly into them.”

As an after thought, “The fact of the tracks and the spiders vexes me greatly. Is it possible that Hammerfall fell to the drow, or even now they are walking in our streets?”

[Aria Stonehand]

Aria:

The spider hunt was a success and Oran’s Firehammer more than lived up to its billing. While trying to clean up the cavern, the others return.

“Seems you guys are having all the fun.”

“You be a strange one, Farian, if ye be thinking that removing spider webs is fun,” Aria answers playfully.

"Good to see you as well. Anyone in need of Berronar's healing touch?" Grondar scans the area for any sign of injured or poisoned personnel.

“I think we’re fine, Priest. Thank you for the concern.”


Aria and the others take a break while the new arrivals make their report.

"We found a long, narrow cavern with three exits. The cavern had ledges on either side, which were inhabited by at least two cave fishers.

"Following the side tunnel we found a network of tunnels and smaller caverns. Farian discovered evidence of a party of drow having passed through some time back. We decided to return and inform you before proceeding."

“A cavern with a large amount of piercers was found too, though we did not venture within for obvious reasons. Grondar is mistaken, I saw a camp with evidence of elves passing, Drow if I’d wager my pay on it. There is no telling of how long ago it was used, could be a week or several months. The tracks were close together in the tunnels there was no way to tell of numbers but if I had to guess it was probably a patrol or raiding party, was a few dozen in the least, perhaps more. We would have scouted more but we didn’t want you walking blindly into them.”

“Obviously a case of good news and bad,” Aria notes. “Never a good sign that there be dark elves about, but the fact that natural creatures like cave fishers and piercers are down there is good. That tells me the area is not ‘civilized’. The beasties will at least help act as guards until we can explore the caves more thoroughly.”

As an after thought, “The fact of the tracks and the spiders vexes me greatly. Is it possible that Hammerfall fell to the drow, or even now they are walking in our streets?”

“It is possible,” Aria admits. “The current state of Hammerfall is unknown to us. We’ll have to be prepared for anything.”

“Bur for now, we’ve got other issues to deal with, such as moving this coal onward. To do that we’ll need to repair the pulley system and see why the water no longer flows to power them. We’re going to need to scout out the general area to insure there are no other threats. Therefore, I’d like Farian, Salem, and Rat…”

Just then Aria realizes that Rat is not with them!

“Where did that dang-blasted rodent wander off to now?! By Clageddin’s Axe’s he needs a leash!”

After a moment’s exasperation, Aria points to the left hand tunnel that leads away from this area. “That tunnel there should take you to the supply depot. We’re gonna need materials to fix the pulley system and they should be there. The other tunnel should go deeper into the mines. Farian, Salem, and Grondar go check it out and see if you can find that rodent. If you find the repair materials, bring them back.”

“Get to it, boys! The rest of us will stay here and keep working.”

[Grondar]

Grondar:

“I think we’re fine, Priest. Thank you for the concern.”

"That is good to hear, Aria. As I recall the bite of those spiders was quite toxic."

“Obviously a case of good news and bad,” Aria notes. “Never a good sign that there be dark elves about, but the fact that natural creatures like cave fishers and piercers are down there is good. That tells me the area is not ‘civilized’. The beasties will at least help act as guards until we can explore the caves more thoroughly.”

"I had the same thought," Grondar replies in agreement. "Unfortunately, the dark elves were apparently able to find their way past them, so we should remain alert."

As an after thought, “The fact of the tracks and the spiders vexes me greatly. Is it possible that Hammerfall fell to the drow, or even now they are walking in our streets?”

Grondar grimaces. "That is not a pleasant thought. If it is so, then we will have our hands full rooting them out."

Arai's outburst awakens Grondar to the fact that Rat does indeed seem to be missing. Berronar only knows what mischief that halfling is creating now. At the same time, Grondar feels a bit chagrined that he hadn't noticed himself.

After a moment’s exasperation, Aria points to the left hand tunnel that leads away from this area. “That tunnel there should take you to the supply depot. We’re gonna need materials to fix the pulley system and they should be there. The other tunnel should go deeper into the mines. Farian, Salem, and Grondar go check it out and see if you can find that rodent. If you find the repair materials, bring them back.”

“Get to it, boys! The rest of us will stay here and keep working.”

"Aye-aye, ma'am." Grondar turns to join the two scouts. To some extent it seems like they would be better off with a warrior in their party - just in case they run into trouble. However, the more hands on the repairs, the faster they'll go. Once they are ready, he will follow the scouts into the indicated tunnel.

[farian]

Farian

"I had the same thought," Grondar replies in agreement. "Unfortunately, the dark elves were apparently able to find their way past them, so we should remain alert."

“Not that we are aware. Salem was not able to traverse the terrain to get a better view. They could have suffered great loses in the piercer’s cavern.” He says evenly his voice grumbling softly.


“Where did that dang-blasted rodent wander off to now?! By Clageddin’s Axe’s he needs a leash!”

“Check the coal bins and buckets, I’d wager he’s sleeping somewhere.”

After a moment’s exasperation, Aria points to the left hand tunnel that leads away from this area. “That tunnel there should take you to the supply depot. We’re gonna need materials to fix the pulley system and they should be there. The other tunnel should go deeper into the mines. Farian, Salem, and Grondar go check it out and see if you can find that rodent. If you find the repair materials, bring them back.”

“Get to it, boys! The rest of us will stay here and keep working.”

“Aye.” He said gathering up his warhammer. We’ll be back in but a moment.” He says as he turns to head down toward the other tunnel.

[Aria Stonehand]

Aria:

"That is good to hear, Aria. As I recall the bite of those spiders was quite toxic."

“Bah! We’re dwarves! It takes a bit more than spider-spit to slow us down!”

"I had the same thought," Grondar replies in agreement. "Unfortunately, the dark elves were apparently able to find their way past them, so we should remain alert."

“Say what you want about those scum, but they’ve lived underground nearly as long as we have. They know their way around the Underdark and the dangers that can exist there. I would be surprised that they’d be killed by something so simply like a piercer or a cave fisher.

Grondar grimaces. "That is not a pleasant thought. If it is so, then we will have our hands full rooting them out."

“One step at a time, good priest. I’m sure that we’ll face plenty of challenges on our way to Hammerfall. If there be dwarves there, then we’ll drive them back out!”

“Check the coal bins and buckets, I’d wager he’s sleeping somewhere.”

“If there is work to be done, you can bet that halfling is far away from it!”

“We looked down the tunnel in question,” Aria adds as the boys move off. “It seemed to be free of spider webs, so there might not be any more of the creepy-crawlies that way.”

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:

“Odd.” He says wiping off his warhammer, “There were more the last time.” He says absently wondering if the others have infiltrated the other side of the depot.

“That’s because we killed many of them before,” Salem explains. “Thankfully they don’t breed that fast!”


The explorers catch up with Aria’s group in the second coal storage area. The large spiders that inhabited this area have been dealt with the dwarves are involved with clearing away the spider webs. As the conversation goes along, Aria realizes that Rat is AWOL again. Grondar, Farian, and Salem are dispatched to find the wayward halfling and bring supplies back from the nearby supply depot.

The passage in question is a dwarven mine tunnel, so it’s straight and true unlike a twisting natural passage. The ceiling is seven feet overhead and the tunnel itself is ten feet wide. Track for ore carts runs down the center. Dirt and dust lies underfoot here, so tracking the halfling isn’t much of a problem. The tracks lead down the tunnel and into darkness.

The trio moves deeper into the tunnel. After a few dozen feet, side passages appear. None of these have tracks going down them, so they are just side shafts mined for their ores. Eventually each of these play out and end. You can see the halfling footprints going down these tunnels and returning. No other footprints turn up. It seems that other than Rat and yourselves, this tunnel is deserted.

Suddenly off in the distance, a source of light is noted emerging from a side shaft! Moving closer, the light grows stronger in the main tunnel. It’s the light from a torch. Finally, the holder of the torch comes into view. It’s Rat! (Rat does not possess Infravision, so he needs light sources down here.)

He’s about four hundred feet ahead of you and seems unaware of your presence. However, as you move closer, a dark shape moves between you and Rat’s light source! It seems to be black vaguely humanoid shaped presence closing in on the halfling!

Now what?

[Grondar]

Grondar:

“Not that we are aware. Salem was not able to traverse the terrain to get a better view. They could have suffered great loses in the piercer’s cavern.” He says evenly his voice grumbling softly.

“Say what you want about those scum, but they’ve lived underground nearly as long as we have. They know their way around the Underdark and the dangers that can exist there. I would be surprised that they’d be killed by something so simply like a piercer or a cave fisher.

Grondar suspects that Aria has the right of it, but doesn't say so. No sense offending Farian's pride.

“One step at a time, good priest. I’m sure that we’ll face plenty of challenges on our way to Hammerfall. If there be dwarves there, then we’ll drive them back out!”

"No doubt true in both regards, Aria. We have much work before us."

The various comments regarding Kylie's mentor bring a snort of amusement from Grondar. Still, Rat has his uses, so a leash is probably not the best approach.

“We looked down the tunnel in question,” Aria adds as the boys move off. “It seemed to be free of spider webs, so there might not be any more of the creepy-crawlies that way.”

Grondar nods and follows Farian and Salem down the tunnel indicated. The scouts indicate that Rat's footprints can be seen as they progress, so following his path isn't a problem. After a ways, they find a number of side tunnels, all of which apparently dead-end and show signs of having been visited by the halfling. Probably either minor ore seams or unfinished tunnels.

Further off, a light emerges from a side tunnel. After a few tense moments of silent waiting, a figure emerges with a torch. Despite the distance, it is apparent that the figure is none other than their wandering halfling! Grondar breathes a sigh of relief at the realization that Rat is okay.

Just then, a dark figure glides out into the tunnel between them and the Master Finder. Raising his crossbow and sighting down the bolt, Grondar takes a step forward and to the side to get a good angle past Farian and Salem.

Still, he hesitates, trying to assess the shape to determine the likely type of humanoid they face. Perhaps it is one of the dwarves from Aria's work crew that has wandered off. Not likely, but possible. At least the shape and dimensions should give them some idea of whether it's a dwarf, drow, human or whatever.

"Can you identify it?" he whispers to Farian and Salem.

[farian]

Farian

Suddenly off in the distance, a source of light is noted emerging from a side shaft! Moving closer, the light grows stronger in the main tunnel. It’s the light from a torch. Finally, the holder of the torch comes into view. It’s Rat! (Rat does not possess Infravision, so he needs light sources down here.)

He’s about four hundred feet ahead of you and seems unaware of your presence. However, as you move closer, a dark shape moves between you and Rat’s light source! It seems to be black vaguely humanoid shaped presence closing in on the halfling!

Still, he hesitates, trying to assess the shape to determine the likely type of humanoid they face. Perhaps it is one of the dwarves from Aria's work crew that has wandered off. Not likely, but possible. At least the shape and dimensions should give them some idea of whether it's a dwarf, drow, human or whatever.

"Can you identify it?" he whispers to Farian and Salem.

“It ain’t on of us, and sure don’t look like it wants to stop for tea now does it.” He grumbles back in low tone as he readies his warhammer. “Looks like a Shadow to me.”

“Aim High, don’t want to be hurting the little rat.” He says evenly as he moves forward. Knowing if he doesn’t alert the Halfling it may be the last thing Rat sees, Farian takes his War hammer and bangs upon his shield hoping rat hears the echo and looks in their direction.

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:

The explorers have located Rat in the tunnel up ahead thanks to the torch he is carrying. However, a dark vaguely humanoid shape has appeared in the mine tunnel between you and Rat! It is closing in on the unsuspecting Halfling.

"Can you identify it?" he whispers to Farian and Salem.

"It ain't on of us, and sure don't look like it wants to stop for tea now does it." He grumbles back in low tone as he readies his warhammer. "Looks like a Shadow to me."

“It could be a shadow,” Salem agrees. “A kind of undead known to haunt the dark places of the world. Their touch makes you weak and can kill.”

Grondar takes a few steps forward and aims his crossbow. While Grondar takes aim, Farian bangs his warhammer against his shield in an effort to warn Rat. The warning works, as Rat turns to see what is causing the noise.

Grondar fires his crossbow and the bolt zips off into the darkness. The shadowy apparition flinches as if the bolt struck him, but you cannot be certain. The dark figure is on the move again, this time he seems to be rushing towards you!

[farian]

Farian

Grondar fires his crossbow and the bolt zips off into the darkness. The shadowy apparition flinches as if the bolt struck him, but you cannot be certain. The dark figure is on the move again, this time he seems to be rushing towards you!

Readying his warhammer and shield, Farian awaits the Shadow, when it comes close enough he’ll lash out with his warhammer.

[Grondar]

Grondar:

“It ain’t on of us, and sure don’t look like it wants to stop for tea now does it.” He grumbles back in low tone as he readies his warhammer. “Looks like a Shadow to me.”

“Aim High, don’t want to be hurting the little rat.” He says evenly as he moves forward. Knowing if he doesn’t alert the Halfling it may be the last thing Rat sees, Farian takes his War hammer and bangs upon his shield hoping rat hears the echo and looks in their direction.

In the darkness, the creature appears to be just another dark shape at first, making it hard to tell for sure what it is. Still the advice is good, though Grondar has no intention of shooting towards the halfling.

“It could be a shadow,” Salem agrees. “A kind of undead known to haunt the dark places of the world. Their touch makes you weak and can kill.”

Salem agrees with Farian on the likely identity of the creature. From his training, Grondar has a pretty good idea of what a Shadow is, he's just never encountered one before.

Farian pounds on his shield as a warning to Rat, and Grondar fires his crossbow, though he doubts his unenchanted bolt will have much effect on the creature. Fortunately, he has enchanted bolts as well, that will likely harm the shadow. However, he cannot afford to let it touch any of them and it appears to have decided to come at them!

Lowering his crossbow for the moment, Grondar pauses to let it draw near, then places his free hand on the holy symbol hanging against his chest. Calling on the power of his patron, Berronar Truesilver, Grondar attempts to drive the creature back.

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:

The dwarves have gotten the attention of the dark shape that was stalking Rat. Now it is rushing towards them! Grondar holds his ground, waiting for the creature to get closer. Finally at the limits of his infravision, he can see a vague patch of darkness closing towards him. Holding his Holy Symbol up, Grondar invokes the power of his goddess.

The display of power slows the shadow and repels the creature. It turns and dashes away, back towards Rat!


Now what?

[Grondar]

Grondar:

Berronar's power drives the creature back, but Grondar cannot channel enough of it to destroy it. No doubt Ivy could have done much better.

"Get out of there, Rat!" Grondar shouts as he pulls one of the enchanted bolts from his quiver. Raising the crossbow, he sights down and takes the shot, immediately preparing another as soon as that one is away.
__________________________________________________________
There are four +1 bolts in Grondar's quiver, according to the sheet I have for him. He'll use those until the shadow is destroyed or he switches to another weapon.

[farian]

Farian

Seeing Grondar raise his holy symbol and the shadow turn and flee right back at the Shadow. “Well that was well planned.” Testing the weight of his war hammer in his hand as he moves forward to close the gap if he can attack with his warhammer he will do so.

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:


Grondar has repelled the shadow with his Holy Symbol. Now it is rushing back down the tunnel towards Rat!

"Get out of there, Rat!" Grondar shouts as he pulls one of the enchanted bolts from his quiver. Raising the crossbow, he sights down and takes the shot, immediately preparing another as soon as that one is away.

Rat turns and runs away from the dwarves, moving further down the tunnel towards the supply depot.

Taking aim, Grondar fires his crossbow once more. He hits his target and the shadow flinches once more. However, it keeps moving down the tunnel.

Farian and Salem give chase, but the shadow is too fast for them both. They quickly fall behind the apparition. Grondar rushes after them and easily catches up. With his magical boots, he might be able to catch up to the shadow before it can reach Rat.


GM Notes:

There are four +1 bolts in Grondar's quiver, according to the sheet I have for him. He'll use those until the shadow is destroyed or he switches to another weapon.

I should note here a property of magical bows: crossbows, longbows and shortbows. A bow +1 gives the user both a +1 to hit and a +1 to damage. In affect, the bow makes any normal shaft fired from it +1. So if a shaft that is already +1 is fired from it, the final attack is considered +2, +2.

Thus in this situation where a +1 is needed to hit a shadow, any normal bolt fired from a +1 bow would affect it.

Now what?

[Grondar]

Grondar:

Fortunately, Rat gets the message and takes off in the other direction. The shadow races in pursuit, but at least it should take a little while at this rate.

Even better, Grondar's bolt strikes the dark intruder. Still, the situation is grim, and Grondar takes off after the shadow, drawing another enchanted bolt as he runs. Then, stopping quickly, he fires the next shot before continuing in pursuit.

If this bolt doesn't take the creature down, Grondar figures his best option is to drop the crossbow, the chase it down and use TruthGiver to end the threat.

[farian]

Farian

Though far slower then Grondar, Farian will follow Grondar down the tunnel in the hopes of meeting the enemy, if he is able he’ll hit it with his warhammer.

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:

Fort Fletcher:

Guards maintain watch along their posts in the upper levels of Fort Fletcher. All has been quiet since the horrific attack launched by the forces of Auril. The damage from the assault has since been repaired and the fort has fallen into a somewhat normal daily routine. Re-enforcements are not expected until spring and the snow outside has melted.

The weather has improved greatly. It isn’t as chilly as it had been before since the Guardians returned from their assault on the Ice Palace. The snow outside the fort does not seem as deep as it had been. Not a soul had been seen outside the fort for days now.

Until today. One of the elfin archers spotted something moving towards the fort, following the natural valley that lead to the structure. At first glance it appeared to be a man and a wolf companion, but as he drew closer they realized that it was a dwarf with a wolf! Once the figure was close enough to the Fort, a challenge was issued by the defenders.

“Who goes there?” A human voice called down. “What business have you at Fort Fletcher?”

GM Notes:

Say hello to the new character!

[GM Mad]

The Mines:

Elsewhere, the dwarves are clearing and exploring the mines close to Fort Fletcher as part of their underground journey to the abandoned dwarven city of Hammerfall. While Aria and those with her work to clean up the 2nd coal supply depot from Fort Fletcher, Grondar, Farian, and Salem have gone in search of Rat who seems to be moving towards a local mining supply depot. Along the way, the trio has discovered a shadow trailing the unsuspecting halfling!

Grondar has lodged two crossbow bolts into the creature thus far, but it hasn’t been enough to stop the shadow. His efforts to turn it has only repelled the minor undead, forcing back towards Rat! After warning the halfling, the dwarves give chase.

Farian and Salem quickly fall behind the faster moving shadow. (Dwarves and halflings have a natural slower move then humans-sized creatures do. The shadow moves as fast as a human would.)

Grondar rushes past his companions once more, thanks to his magical boots. His crossbow quickly is loaded and it cocks itself. Another bolt is fire and again Grondar’s aim is true! The shadow seems to fall and the dwarves loose sight of it as it blends in with the darkness around the floor.

The dwarves rush forwards and quickly reach the supply depot. The sight that awaits them is rather grand. The depot is essentially a shaft that runs upwards from their current position. Just how high it goes up is beyond their ability to see. But they can make up tiny pinpoints of light way up at the top of the shaft. A refreshing breeze is felt, but it is a bit chilly as if the air is being funneled in from the outside. Such ventilation shafts are common among dwarven mining.

Several side caverns are noted at the ground level. In these caverns are various mining supplies, all covered by protective tarps. There are mining carts, mining tools, replacements timbers and so on. The area in the center of the depot is marked off by timber fencing, indicating that this is where a platform on a winch sets down from higher up. The elevator platform cannot be seen. It must be higher up in the shaft. There is an iron ladder embedded in the wall that leads up the huge shaft.

Rat is here, exploring the supplies as if nothing had happened.


Now what?

[Daraden Stormbeard]

Daraden Stormbeard:

“Who goes there?” A human voice called down. “What business have you at Fort Fletcher?”

"By my great-grandpappie's beard!" Daraden grumbles as he hears the challenge called down by one of the fort defenders. "You would think these folk never seen a dwarf before!"

Darkfang chimes in at his master's grumbling, forcing the dwarf to quiet him quickly, "Hush you, these humans are spooked enough as it is. They be shooting you thinking you killed one of their sheep or something if you're not careful!"

Regaining his composure, Daraden finally addresses the fort defenders, "I am Daraden Stormbeard! I've been waiting for you to finally show up again. Hammerfall needs to be reclaimed and time's awasting! Is there not a dwarf amongst you?"

Daraden rests a heavy hand on Darkfang and waits while the humans go and discuss this with everybody else, bicker and debate, and then finally maybe decide whether or not to let him in.

[Grondar]

Grondar:

Determined not to let the shadow-creature get Rat, Grondar races after it, pausing only to fire his crossbow once more. Another hit! This one seems to do the job as the shadow crumbles and fades into the floor.

Zipping over to where it appeared to die, Grondar examines the area for any trace of the creature.

---

It is not long before they reach the supply shaft. Looking way up, Grondar can make out bits of light, indicating that the shaft may connect with the surface and thus be an air intake as well. The light breeze he feels on his skin seems to confirm this.

There are several side caves containing various mining equipment, and it is here that they find Rat nosing through the supplies.

"Rat! It is good to see you. You gave us a bit of a fright, disappearing like that. There are many dangers down here; you might want to be more careful."

A platform seems to indicate the presence of a supply lift. "Farian, you feel like taking a look up there and see if the winch is in operating order?" If so, it would make their work a bit easier.
__________________________________________________________
Hello, new character! Welcome! New player or existing?

[farian]

Farian

Grondar rushes past his companions once more, thanks to his magical boots. His crossbow quickly is loaded and it cocks itself. Another bolt is fire and again Grondar’s aim is true! The shadow seems to fall and the dwarves loose sight of it as it blends in with the darkness around the floor.

“I hope no more of them are about!” he says gruffly as the shadow sinks through the floor.

Rat is here, exploring the supplies as if nothing had happened.


"Rat! It is good to see you. You gave us a bit of a fright, disappearing like that. There are many dangers down here; you might want to be more careful."

Grumbling behind Gondar, Farian walks by bumping his shoulder as he passes staring holes into the Halfling. As the Halfling continues to rummage about through the piles of equipment, Farian taps him on the back and if he doesn’t respond or brushes him off he will grab him by the belt and lift him up.

“Ye not be running of like that no more. Ye hear me, The next time I see you wonder off, Ill be fixing a collar and leash to ya.”

A platform seems to indicate the presence of a supply lift. "Farian, you feel like taking a look up there and see if the winch is in operating order?" If so, it would make their work a bit easier.”

“Aye but no telling in what state it will be. See what we need and gather it, their maybe a cart about.” He says gruffly still annoyed at the Halfling.

[Grondar]

Grondar:

Grumbling behind Gondar, Farian walks by bumping his shoulder as he passes staring holes into the Halfling. As the Halfling continues to rummage about through the piles of equipment, Farian taps him on the back and if he doesn’t respond or brushes him off he will grab him by the belt and lift him up.

“Ye not be running of like that no more. Ye hear me, The next time I see you wonder off, Ill be fixing a collar and leash to ya.”

Grondar places a hand on Farian's shoulder. "Please calm yourself, my friend. No real harm done, and he can no more stop being a halfling than you or I can stop being dwarves."

“Aye but no telling in what state it will be. See what we need and gather it, their maybe a cart about.” He says gruffly still annoyed at the Halfling.

Farian manages to state the obvious, which is exactly why Grondar made the request in the first place. Oh well. "Can you give me a hand, Salem?" Grondar asks as he sets to collecting gear.

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:

Fort Fletcher:

Daraden Stormbeard has arrived at Fort Fletcher. The guards regard him wearily.

Regaining his composure, Daraden finally addresses the fort defenders, "I am Daraden Stormbeard! I've been waiting for you to finally show up again. Hammerfall needs to be reclaimed and time's awasting! Is there not a dwarf amongst you?"

“The dwarves are all off in the mines,” the voice calls down. “But if you’re supposed to meet up with them, then we’ll raise the gate.”


Long minutes pass while Daraden waits near the way into of Fort Fletcher. Large stone blocks form the entranceway and they have to be raised to allow entrance. It’s an air-lock sort of arrangement, as there are four blocks that need to be raised. Daraden can hear the noise as the men work to raise the blocks.

Finally the last block is raised and he can now enter the fort. Standing there is a human male in chain mail.

“I am Lieutenant Wyndham,” the human announces offering his hand. “Welcome to Fort Fletcher. Lady Aria and those under her command are in the mines right now, clearing a path towards Hammerfall. Most likely they’ll return after nightfall. You can either wait until they return or venture into the mines yourself to catch up with them.”

It’s about midday now, so they’ll be gone another 6-7 hours at least.

[GM Mad]

Mines:

Down in the mines, the dwarves have located Rat and discovered that a shadow is stalking him. Rushing the shadow, Grondar downs him with several crossbow bolts. The shadow falls to the tunnel floor and simply seems to vanish, as if it was never really here.

“I hope no more of them are about!” he says gruffly as the shadow sinks through the floor.

“Keep on guard”, Salem advises. “I’ve heard that those things travel in packs like shadowy wolves!”


Continuing on, the dwarves reach the mining supply depot. Numerous mining carts, mining tools, replacement timbers and other replacement parts are found under protective tarps. These date back to when the mines were in operation. Rat is already there and exploring.

"Rat! It is good to see you. You gave us a bit of a fright, disappearing like that. There are many dangers down here; you might want to be more careful."

“Lady Aria needed supplies, so I figured I’d help by finding them,” the halfling offers with a toothy grin. “I found them, but not much else of interest.”

“Shadows are known to have treasure near by”, Salem offers. “Perhaps this one did as well?”

“If there’s treasure here, I’ll find it!” Rat vows.

Grumbling behind Gondar, Farian walks by bumping his shoulder as he passes staring holes into the Halfling. As the Halfling continues to rummage about through the piles of equipment, Farian taps him on the back and if he doesn’t respond or brushes him off he will grab him by the belt and lift him up.

“Ye not be running of like that no more. Ye hear me, the next time I see you wonder off, I’ll be fixing a collar and leash to ya.”

“So that’s how it is, is it?” Rat grumbles as he dangles in Farian’s grasp. Even with his gear Rat weights less than 90 pounds! “Pickin’ on the little people! I’m a finder and to find things I have to go look for them! You just want the treasure for yourself!”

Grondar places a hand on Farian's shoulder. "Please calm yourself, my friend. No real harm done, and he can no more stop being a halfling than you or I can stop being dwarves."

A platform seems to indicate the presence of a supply lift. "Farian, you feel like taking a look up there and see if the winch is in operating order?" If so, it would make their work a bit easier.

“Aye but no telling in what state it will be. See what we need and gather it, their maybe a cart about.” He says gruffly still annoyed at the Halfling.

“The winch is most likely near the top of the shaft,” Salem adds. “Standard dwarven mining techniques. It’ll be at the upper most tunnel and numerous other tunnels will branch of this central shaft.”

Farian manages to state the obvious, which is exactly why Grondar made the request in the first place. Oh well. "Can you give me a hand, Salem?" Grondar asks as he sets to collecting gear.

“Of course,” Salem answers. “There should be plenty of things here we need.”


After Rat is released the dwarves begin to take stock of what is here. A mining cart is moved to the tracks and then loading begins. Farian makes his way to the ladder, only to find Rat already scampering up it! But that’s not all. Coming out of a side cavern Farian can see three more shadows moving towards him and the others!



GM Notes:

Things are starting to settle down a bit on my end. Looks like the worse of the start of May is over.

Three more shadows are rushing to attack. They can be seen clearer once they are within infravision range as a vaguely humanoid shaped patch of darkness.

Now what?

[Grondar]

Grondar:

“Keep on guard”, Salem advises. “I’ve heard that those things travel in packs like shadowy wolves!”

This sounds like good advice and Grondar determines to keep an eye out and his holy symbol near to hand.

Salem and Rat discuss the possibility of treasure, but it's of little interest to Grondar so he stays out of it.

“The winch is most likely near the top of the shaft,” Salem adds. “Standard dwarven mining techniques. It’ll be at the upper most tunnel and numerous other tunnels will branch of this central shaft.”

Grondar nods as he listens to Salem's input. "It would be good to know how far up that is and whether the winch works."

Soon they begin collecting equipment and supplies and loading it into a cart. Salem is more knowledgeable of mining than Grondar is, so Grondar relies on the scout to choose the supplies they need while he helps load it up.

Farian calls out the approach of more shadows, causing Grondar to look up. Racing toward them, he pulls out his holy symbol and summons the power of the Revered Mother to drive them back. He tries to position himself such that they will be driven back toward the side cavern they emerged from.
___________________________________________________________
Taking a small liberty here in assuming that Farian will warn the others. If not, I'll change my post.

[farian]

Farian

“So that’s how it is, is it?” Rat grumbles as he dangles in Farian’s grasp. Even with his gear Rat weights less than 90 pounds! “Pickin’ on the little people! I’m a finder and to find things I have to go look for them! You just want the treasure for yourself!”

“At this rate all you will find is your death, little finder.” Letting go of his grip. “ So be it, it be on your head not mine.”

Grondar places a hand on Farian's shoulder. "Please calm yourself, my friend. No real harm done, and he can no more stop being a halfling than you or I can stop being dwarves."

“Ye keep thinking that, Grondar. It is a simple matter, If he is seen, caught and captured what makes you think whatever caught him would be foolish enough to think he came this far alone. Past a chasm, all those spiders both big and small and now Shadows. No harm done is far from what I would call it.” He says gruffly as he turns away tired of the mothering dwarf.

Making his way to the ladder Farian, he sees Rat scrambling up the ladder haking his head, “Halflings.” But then he sees three shadows rushing from a side cavern. “We have company!’ Drawing his war hammer and shield before him, “Come let us see how Shadows like Dwarven Steel!”

[Daraden Stormbeard]

Daraden Stormbeard:

“The dwarves are all off in the mines,” the voice calls down. “But if you’re supposed to meet up with them, then we’ll raise the gate.”

"Well, of course I'm supposed to meet up with 'em!" Daraden says, shaking his head. Like there would be any other reason he'd be there.

Long minutes pass while Daraden waits near the way into of Fort Fletcher. Large stone blocks form the entranceway and they have to be raised to allow entrance. It’s an air-lock sort of arrangement, as there are four blocks that need to be raised. Daraden can hear the noise as the men work to raise the blocks.

Finally the last block is raised and he can now enter the fort. Standing there is a human male in chain mail.

“I am Lieutenant Wyndham,” the human announces offering his hand. “Welcome to Fort Fletcher. Lady Aria and those under her command are in the mines right now, clearing a path towards Hammerfall. Most likely they’ll return after nightfall. You can either wait until they return or venture into the mines yourself to catch up with them.”

Daraden just paces in a slow circle waiting for these humans to get the gates open. Finally they figure it out and a human soldier, a lieutenant supposedly, walks up and extends his hand.

"Fine to meet you," Daraden replies shaking the offered hand firmly. "Lady Aria you say? Well that's a grand thing then."

However, he learns the other dwarves aren't expected to be back until nightfall, and that's a long time to be sitting idle and babysitting humans. "Tell yah what," Daraden says, "gimmie something to quench my parched throat and point me in the right direction and I'll meet up with 'em rather that cooling my heels for that long."

__________________________________________________________
Hello, new character! Welcome! New player or existing?

Thanks! Existing player here. You might know me from such favorites as Acerion, Telsa and a few others.

[GM Mad]

Post Closed