Sword of Doom # 20
Underneath the graveyard, the Company has encountered more minions of the Zombie Master.
Omni leaps up, striking the skull floating over them. It is batted into the wall, where it shatters.
Eliza, Drakkor, and Berek make short work of the remaining giant zombie.
"That was an act of aggression!", a voice echoes throughout the room.
Suddenly, a fog billows into the room. It is sickly yellowish-green in color.
Fearing it the effects of a Cloud Kill spell, the Company rushes towards the stairs.
To their horror, they discover more zombies filling down the stairs. Six bugbear zombies climb down the stairs.
Looking to the other exit, you find a horde of monster zombies moving in. In front of the group is a pair of rust monster zombies, followed by a dozen zombie goblins. The rear is brought up by two ogre zombies.
GM Notes
The Company is caught in the middle of this mess. Zombies on two sides and the cloud on the other.
What will you do? What will you do?
Hit Points:
Berek - 12 of 21
Ever - 8 of 14
Omni - 26 of 39
Spectrum's Comments: Talk about being between a rock and hard place!
SUBJ: Perrel... (R) FROM: Count Kill 12/05/90 S#: 500997
"Drat!" I say once I see the zombies coming out of everywhere, and the strange cloud coming at us. "Strategic retreat!"
"Fighters first up the stairs. Tristan, Schar you follow right behind, so you can turn those undead on the stairs, fighters can destroy what few don't turn."
"Selarin, take the rear with me. We can turn whatever undead gets too close while the others go up."
As the party starts heading up, I feel like I'm forgetting something, and then I realize what.
"Selarin, watch the party's rear," I say before quickly running over, and grabbing Merri's body. "Darned if I'm going to leave you here to become one of his minions. You deserve better than that."
I then head back to the party posthaste!
SUBJ: Arathnasis FROM: Wildchilde 12/06/90 S#: 807139
Perrel is to late to get to merri's body as arathnasis has already scooped her up and is carrying her over his shoulder and in the other hand has his sword. "I am sorry fair lady...."
"Turn those beasties up there guy come on lets get outta here."
If worse comes to worse and it probably will Arathnasis will set Merri's body down and fight first casting magic missile at the first zombie and then hacking away. He will protect the body and under no circumstances will he leave it.
SUBJ: begone (R) FROM: GrooToo 12/06/90 S#: 467908
Begone! RETURN TO THE HELL APPOINTED TO YOU AND YOUR MINIONS IN THE NAME OF TYMORA I COMMAND YOU! I draw my mace and prepare to cover the retreat of the party if this is the fate my lord has appointed for me then I accept it gladly but, I ask for his divine luck to carry the party and myself out of here. Also someone use the scroll with Holy Word on it!! It may be our salvation!! IF not RUNNNNN!!!!!
Selarin
(OH @#&%!")('&@@@@*)
SUBJ: Johnathan (R) FROM: Stretch611 12/06/90 S#: 522456
Since I was obviously worried about the possibility of gas, I hopefully was near the stairs is so my actions are as follows
1. Use last Color Spray vs. the lesser zombies on the stairs.
2. Cast Chill Touch and get the heck back to the temple.
Of course I will use all the caution I can and do so in the most efficient manner to get the ENTIRE party back. A retreat seems in order.
If not able to attack the ones on the stairs, here are my actions:
1. Wait with all spells.
2. If the zombies down here get to be too much, use Color Spray to help party.
3. Help party retreat back to temple. Using spells to best help the party.
SUBJ: Eliza (R) FROM: Zynara 12/06/90 S#: 450577
Seeing everything going bad, and hearing the order to pull back, I run for the stairs. Seeing the way up blocked, I go forward, swinging away with my katana.
Once the stairs are clear, I will go to the top of them and see what is waiting for us above.
SUBJ: Tristan FROM: FrankP25 12/06/90 S#: 462297
I will go near the stairs and try to turn as many undead as possible. I will keep my SunBurst scroll handy in case we really get into trouble (as if this isn't deep enough :). After turning I will take out my sword and hack away.
If we get into real trouble, I will post alter about using the spell.
"Come on! Let's get outta here. All clerics turn these things! If we don't get out, we become one of his minions. Let's go!"
SUBJ: Drakkor FROM: Troll 3a 12/07/90 S#: 413277
I start to swing at the monsters in the room to leave room for my sword to swing I yell "GO GET OUT QUICK" I will not leave this room till the party is safe.
SUBJ: Ronin FROM: ShadowElf 12/08/90 S#: 467199
When all heck breaks loose Ronin will fight beside Arthnasis (sp?)."I will not leave you here to fight these things alone, my friend". Ronin will cast *Shillelagh* on his staff, then on all the creature he can he will cast*Faerie Fire*."May the Deity OBAD-HAI, protect and aid us my friends".
SUBJ: Argent (R) FROM: Enchantres 12/08/90 S#: 402398
The young mage, so arrogant in her early days with the group, has lost most of that arrogance. Her magic has been of little use in the battles and she fears for her life.
'We must flee! Regroup back at the temple!'
I'm not near the front of the group, but not near the rear either! I try to avoid combat, but will cast Color Spray on the lesser undead, in hopes that they will be affected by it.
Spectrum's Comments: No, not one of Argent's finest hours...
SUBJ: Schar FROM: Schar 12/08/90 S#: 817243
Upon seeing the gas and the general retreat that follows, I stop the Chant and move to help the Company.
Following Perrel's instructions, I attempt to turn those undead before us.
"Aside foul creatures!"
If combat does break out, I'll pull my mace out of my belt. I'll attack with all my strength and for the glory of Azrella.
SUBJ: Perrel... FROM: Count Kill 12/09/90 S#: 485766
"Sorry friend, I didn't know someone already had her. But, I should've known that you would be on top of things." I say to Arathnasis with a slight smile.
"Now, let's get the heck out of here."
When Argent screams about regrouping at the temple, I quickly yell out right after her.
"Everyone, we won't get through this individually. We're going to have to stay together if we expect to get out in one piece. So, do not break up!"
"Once we get up these stairs, all spell casters without fighting skills stick close to a fighter."
I keep my eye on the back of the party, and turn any undead beasties that start getting too close.
"Tymora, grant me the power to turn these things, and the luck to get out of this alive." I say softly.
SUBJ: Omni FROM: Omni Tuens 12/09/90 S#: 458265
Omni's eyes widen as he sees the gas come out of the passage, quickly followed by zombies.
"We have to get out of here now! Try and cut a path back up the stairs, we'll have to settle this score later. Arathnasis! Bring the body if you can, but the living must come before the dead.... I don't want to lose any more of you."
With this he charges the zombies on the stairs, trying to cut a path through the unfortunate corpses.
---------------------------------------
My apologies for taking so long to post.... I've been rather ill of late.
Spectrum's Comments: Hopefully it wasn't the way the game was going that was turning Omni's stomach!
Post Continued:
Retreating, the Company finds its way blocked by zombies. Tristan and Schar turn the bugbear zombies, driving them back up the stairs.
At the bottom of the stairs, Perrel and Selarin turn the monster horde of Zombies.
The Company moves slowly up the stairs. (There is much confusion and only room to go one at a time.)
The ominous fog engulfs Perrel and Arathansis.
A few beats pass...
Neither man seems to be suffering any ill effects from the cloud.
Something is heard in the distance...
Laughter?
Spectrum's Comments: Now was that a dirty trick or what?
SUBJ: Schar
I smile and give a silent prayer to Azrella as the zombies on the stairs leave.
"The way is cleared, comrades! Let us make haste!"
Looking back, I stand there horrified as the cloud descends.
"Oh no! We are too late!"
Not comprehending what follows, my horror turns to shock as both men survive the cloud's effects.
The laughter confirms it.
"It was a trick! That was not the Fog of Death!"
Unsure what to do, I stand on the stairs, awaiting further orders.
SUBJ: Argent
The mage hangs her head upon hearing Perrel's words.
I give a huge sigh of relief when the zombies leave. Still shaken from this ordeal, I reach the top of the stairs and look for a place to sit.
Ashamed over her cowardice, Argent hangs her head and sobs.
Spectrum's Comments: Argent is going through a stretch here where no one is paying much attention to her. She likes having attention paid to her, especially by men. Oh well.
SUBJ: Jonathan FROM: Stretch611 12/10/90 S#: 498965
Bring all members who go down if possible. If you can drag them out without joining them in the sleep, bring them. The moral loss of fighting them in the future would be worse than a score of vampire.
Again use Color Spray where most needed preferably the stairs, and then Chill Touch to help clear the undead from the route.
SUBJ: Omni FROM: Omni Tuens 12/11/90 S#: 506632
Omni shouts in anger when he sees the cloud engulf his friends, and then sighs in relief when it leaves them unaffected. He looks back down the passage for anymore undead, then at those around him.
"Let's go back upstairs for some air and to regroup ourselves. I think some of us could probably use a little break. We can then heal a few wounds and decide what to do about Merri, and whether or not to continue forward at this time. If not, we'll have to come back down anyways and burn the undead that fell before us. Anyone have anything to add?"
SUBJ: Perrel... FROM: GM Kill 12/11/90 S#: 402375
A moment of sheer panic descends on me as the gas flows over me, and I softly speak what I think will be my final words, loud enough for only Selarin to hear me.
"Goodbye Schar....Tymora, I come."
Then I feel rather foolish as nothing happens to me.
"Selarin..."I say, turning to see whether the gas has affected him. Seeing that it hasn't, I relax for a moment, and make my body stop shaking.
Then I turn, and realize that it was all some type of sick joke. Anger burns red in my eyes.
"Thought that was real fun, did you?" I say aloud. "Well, since you're the brains of this outfit, it's only right I return the fun."
With that, I give Selarin a nod, and move off towards the tunnels.
I cast my Protection from Evil, and use my tumbling skills to avoid and conflict, and get past any monsters in my way, going between their legs if I have to.
I'll choose the path that the laughter seems to have come from, if unable to tell, I'll choose the left one and trust to luck.
(I know, Mad's going to have real fun with this, but hey, he's a swashbuckler! ;D )
Spectrum's Comments: You've got to love a player who gives you material to work with.
SUBJ: Schar FROM: Schar 12/13/90 S#: 850991
I shake my head. Did Perrel call out to when we thought he faced his death? I wonder why?
Seeing him turn and run towards the laughter I rush down the stairs.
"Perrel! No!"
Seeing that he is not listening I continue to follow as best I can.
Spectrum's Comments: The rest of this file is very nearly the Perrel, Schar, and Arithnasis show while the other wait for their return.
SUBJ: Arathnasis FROM: Wildchilde 12/13/90 S#: 817514
to perell "It appears my friend that we have both cheated death this day."
When Perell continues into the Mausoleum I will lay down the body. "Take good care of her friends maybe the priestess could raise her??" With that Arathnasis follows Perell
Sword of Doom # 21
Most of the Company has just retreated from the apparent Cloud Kill. However, it was shown to be merely a ruse as it overtook Perrel and Arathnasis. They appeared to be unaffected in any way by the cloud. Mocking laughter filled the underground air.
Omni called for the Company to regroup in the tomb above. Perrel, however, ignored the command, incensed at having been made the fool. He rushed forward pursuing the mocking laughter. As he rounds a corner, Perrel sees a man dressed in black garments. He raises a skull-tipped staff into the air upon seeing the approaching hero.
"You arrogant, ignorant fool! You dare to approach the presence of the Zombie Master?! And alone, no less. You will pay for this folly!"
Before Perrel can react, the Zombie Master shoots five Magic Missiles from his fingertips. Perrel is felled by the sudden magical force.
Arathnasis and Schar come onto the scene just a moment behind. They see the Zombie Master disappear in a flash of energy.
GM Notes:
Hit Points:
Perrel - -3 of 11
Berek - 12 of 21
Omni - 26 of 39
Ever - 8 of 14
Now what?
Spectrum's Comments: Perrel fought the Zombie Master and the Zombie Master won....
SUBJ: heal FROM: GrooToo 12/14/90 S#: 476030
Quickly I cast Clw twice on Perrel. Then I pick him up and help him to where the others are. With that accomplished I help back up the leaders.
Selarin
(forward!)
SUBJ: Arathnasis (R) FROM: Wildchilde 12/15/90 S#: 835213
"Coward!!! Come back and fight like a man!!!" Arathnasis will rush to check the condition of Perell seeing that only a healer can be of any help he begins to scan the room listening for possible foot steps. "Near as I can figure either he teleported or turned invisible. If the latter is the case he may still be in the room."
SUBJ: Omni (R) FROM: Omni Tuens 12/15/90 S#: 432695
"Wait Perrel! Stop!"
Omni shouts in vain as the furious swashbuckler races out of sight, followed by Arathnasis and Schar. He starts to follow, then realizes his duty lies with the rest of the party, and hopes that Schar and Arathnasis can catch Perrel. He gives a dissatisfied grunt and kneels next to Merri's body at the foot of the stairs, picking it up. He then begins ascending the stairs again.
"Let's hope Schar and Arathnasis can catch him. We can't afford to get separated any more than we already are, and we can't all go chasing blindly after Perrel. We'll have to take Merri's body upstairs and hope for the best. If they aren't back shortly, we'll go after them."
He sets down Merri's body upon reaching the top, looking around. A sudden thought occurs to him, and he turns to Tristan.
"Do you still have that scroll? It could be useful yet..."
If the others don't return after a short time, Omni will start after them.
Spectrum's Comments: Boy, these guys are just passing around poor Merri like a backpack!
SUBJ: Tristan FROM: FrankP25 12/15/90 S#: 787478
"It will be very useful. I'll have it ready at all times; we'll fry this wimp. As for now, I suggest that we just get ourselves together for a sec, we can't let the Zombie Master get more time to get a lot more minions. Let'S go!"
I'll heal anybody who needs it, I have 2 CLW's( or I may have used one already).
NOTE: My Scroll has Sunburst*2, and Holy Word*1.
FrankP25,
Tristan
SUBJ: GM Notes: FROM: GM Mad 12/15/90 S#: 833071
Selarin, you are upstairs with the rest of the group. Only Perrel, Arathnasis and Schar encountered the ZM. Hence, you can't heal Perrel.
SUBJ: Schar (R) FROM: Schar 12/15/90 S#: 793939
I come to a quick stop as I see Perrel on the floor and the mystery mage do his fade out.
"Perrel!!"
Ignoring any other threats, I move to Perrel's side. I cast a CLW on him, two if necessary.
"Keep an eye out for trouble, Arath. I'll get him back on his feet in a moment."
Once Perrel is up, assuming my Cures are in time, I'll help him back to the others.
"That was a very foolish thing to do! Let's get back to the others. The Zombie Master appears to have fled."
SUBJ: GM Notes (R) FROM: GM Mad 12/15/90 S#: 522397
Schar casts a Cure Light Wounds on Perrel. Luck is with Perrel this day as the spell does it's maximum potential, raising him up to 8 HP's.
Perrel 8 of 11
SUBJ: Perrel... FROM: GM Kill 12/15/90 S#: 517138
As I see the Zombie Master, my anger dulls a little, replaced by more than a little nervousness. But, determined to see it through to the end, I charge forward at him.
"Who's your tailor? Gruesome and Grim?" Is all I get to say before my nervousness ends due to a sudden pained feeling, and a quick trip to unconsciousness'.
Once I'm healed, I slowly open my eyes, wincing at the effect opening them has on the pounding in my head. But, then I see her.
"Schar?" I say confusedly, while sitting up, a weak smile on my face. "Where's the Dark Dip?"
Once they tell me that he's gone, and yell at me for my stupidity, I sit there thinking for a moment.
When Schar suggests heading back upstairs, I stop rubbing my chin in thought.
"Why did he leave? If he was that powerful, why was he worried about you two? Why didn't he use a real cloudkill if he's that powerful?" I say in a thoughtful tone. "Something doesn't seem right..."
With that I quickly get to my feet, and taking Schar's right hand, give it a quick kiss.
"Madame, once again, I owe you my life. Thank you." I say with a bow.
Then I start looking around the area we're in, searching to see if I can find any clues, items, or any other peculiarities or things of interest.
"Wonder where he went?" I ask with apprehension. "And what he's up to?"
As of late, there has been some confusion about the spelling of Perrel's name, as I spelled it originally Perell, but then changed to Perrel.
The reason this happened was a mix-up between Mad and I, and sure enough, the whole thing has gotten confused.
So, right now, I will set the definitive spelling straight, so we don't have this problem again. :D
The name will be spelled P-E-R-R-E-L. Two r's and one l.
Actually, you can call me anything you want, so long as you don't violate TOS! ;D
SUBJ: Johnathan FROM: Stretch611 12/16/90 S#: 802168
I seem to recall once in my past, some friend and me came upon a skeleton in the forest. It was in a very good condition and seemed to be unusually good shape. In my concentrated stance I failed to hear a friendly voice in the middle of spellcasting. Suddenly the skeleton moved, and stood up. I fell to the ground and began casting a quick Chill Touch. Just as I finished my spell the skeleton fell to the ground, and the group I was with was howling in laughter. My friend One-Hand had caught me off guard and cast his illusion spell.
I am fairly knowledgeable in necromancy and I have had a strange idea that the Zombie Master was not a true Necromancer. Seems some of his stuff may be illusionary in nature. Now I have tried to understand illusion but it is beyond my grasp. I think it is an inherent weak spot of necromancers to understand illusion. So our Zombie Master is a general wizard or a true Illusionist. This could be dangerous. But it would explain his choice of spells. Fake Killing Cloud, but when confronted 5 magic missiles, that is more than I have ever heard of in my part of the world.
I feel we should regroup back at the temple. Hit the place again when we are all healed up and more prepared. Perhaps test the illusion theory. I have an idea on how to do so. But more on that back at the temple.
SUBJ: Schar FROM: Schar 12/17/90 S#: 839733
I return Perrel's smile.
"Just doing what I do best, Perrel. I am a healer, so I heal. Let us be off to join the others. Omni is probably worried."
SUBJ: Perrel... FROM: Count Kill 12/17/90 S#: 504951
"Ah, Schar, you are more than just a healer, you are a miracle wrapped in the form of a beautiful lady." I say, smiling my widest smile, and looking deep into her lovely eyes.
"You are right though, I'm certain Omni is worried. But, Tymora has given us this lucky chance to investigate a little without the Zombie Master about, I would be remiss to pass it up."
"So, Schar..."I say with concern in my voice. "Why don't you head on up, and Arathnasis and I can investigate a little. If that's all right with you Arathnasis?"
"We will be but moments behind you."
I then get to the task of looking about for clues, as indicated before.
SUBJ: Argent FROM: Enchantres 12/18/90 S#: 400006
Listening to Jonathon speaking of the Zombie Masters magicks snaps me out of my sorry state.
'Ah, excuse me, Jon. But that my not be the case. My mentor, a sorceress of great skill, taught me that the threat of a spell could be just as effect as the spell itself. He mentioned some spells that we all knew and feared and cast one the resembled one of those spells. It t'was not an illusion we fled from, but a Fog Cloud. Its effects can appear identical as the Death Fog. Perfectly within the realm of a Necromancer. Just because a mage specializes in one type of magic, does not mean that he will not use other magicks. I would submit that the he used that spell to gauge the strength of our forces. I would also submit that we must continue to attack. Retreat would only give him time to rememorize spells and allow him to be even more prepared for our attack.'
Awaiting a barrage of negative comments! ;>
Spectrum's Comments: In this particular instance, Argent is right on the money. Not sure where Jon got his theory from. Of course Argent had insider knowledge!
SUBJ: Arathnasis (R) FROM: Wildchilde 12/19/90 S#: 438366
Watching as Schar brings Perrel around. And as soon as he is conscious I will be ready to pound on him "That was pretty stupid, my friend, you endangered your life and the life of Schar here who came only to save your butt!" I will then help him to his feet and with a clap on the back I agree that we should explore a little bit before leaving.
"Lets have a little look around, Schar go back and tell Omni that if we don't return in approx 10 minutes to come back down, otherwise well be out as soon as we take a gander"
SUBJ: Perrel... FROM: GM Kill 12/19/90 S#: 486336
I wince at Arath's words, only because I know how right he is.
"Your right, it was pretty stupid. But, I just got so angry, I couldn't even see straight. I don't know why I got so upset over still being alive, but at least I'm still in that condition." I say the last sentence with a smile and a glance at Schar.
SUBJ: Schar (R) FROM: Schar 12/19/90 S#: 409821
The healer nearly blushes at Perrel's comments.
"Please, Perrel! You're embarrassing me! This is hardly the time or place..."
I frown when they wish to continue on.
"I don't think that its that good of an idea, but I'll do my part. Be careful both of you!"
I then run back to rejoin the main group. Once there I quickly explain all that happened to Omni.
SUBJ: Eliza FROM: Zynara 12/19/90 S#: 395776
I stand back and let the mages discuss spells and such while keeping an eye out for more undead and for the missing people. When talk starts on going back, I step forward.
"Omni, you are my leader. What you wish I will do within my abilities. Since the group is so large, you placed Perrel directly over me. My honor dictates that I must go after him and those that went with him. Please send me back to look for them now. The longer I am kept here, the greater chance there is of my failing to protect one of my superiors and 2 others of this unit."
Sword of Doom # 22
The majority of the Company rests in the mausoleum awaiting the return of Perrel, Schar and Arathnasis.
Long minutes pass and Schar finally appears. She quickly relates Perrel's misadventures and that the pair are doing further exploring in the tunnels below.
Perrel and Arathnasis make a quick reconnaissance of the Zombie Master's lair. A long passageway leads away from the area where the Zombie Master was encountered.
Before too long a unlocked door is encountered. Behind the door is a mostly empty. A large pile of tools gets their attention: picks, sledgehammers and shovels. Support timbers are stacked nearby.
The passage continues and arrives at a 4 way intersection. Two of the passages lead to dead ends. There is evidence that both tunnels are still being worked on.
The last passage leads to a door. Beyond this door is a room with 5 cells. The cells are empty. No zombies have been seen... So far...
GM Notes:
Now what, O'Seekers of the Sword?
Hit Points:
Perrel - 8 of 11
Berek - 12 of 21
Omni - 26 of 39
Ever - 8 of 14
SUBJ: Perrel... (R) FROM: GM Kill 12/20/90 S#: 802594
"Hmmm...." I say softly when we find the cells. "Strange that we've found no room for the dark drip yet. You would think he'd have someplace to lay his head."
I check the inside of the cells for secret doors, after making sure the cell door is wedged open before entering.
"Arath, keep an eye open while I look in these." I say before checking them out.
"Well, guess we might as well head back before the others get worried." I say to Arathnasis. "Let's check for secret doors while we head that way."
If it's okay with Arath, we'll head back checking for secret doors as we go along.
"Looks like our friendly Zombie Master must be hiding down the other path." I say thoughtfully. "You know, if we were to collapse the entrance to that tunnel..." I say, while giving Arathnasis a wicked smile.
SUBJ: Arathnasis (R) FROM: Wildchilde 12/21/90 S#: 460009
I got no problem with checking for secret doors. "Maybe we should check that other way out, maybe we should get back though, Omni is probably pretty worried"
I will cover Perrels back whenever his is examining anything.
"For some reason I don't think collapsing that tunnel will end ol' Zombie guy!" ;)
SUBJ: Omni (R) FROM: Omni Tuens 12/21/90 S#: 458795
Omni is relieved to see Schar return safely, but quickly grows agitated when he hears that the other two are still roaming around down below him. When Eliza speaks, he doesn't hesitate in answering her.
"I think we've waited long enough for them to come back. If we continue waiting until they're ready, we may be awhile. Knowing them, they'll probably want to check every single door along the way, and won't give up until they find something. Let's all just go down after them, if there's no objections."
He then makes sure that Merri's body is in a relatively safe place, and starts back down the stairs with a slightly frustrated look, hoping to meet Arathnasis and Perrel along the way.
SUBJ: Perrel... FROM: GM Kill 12/21/90 S#: 829075
"You may have a point, but Zombie Miser is human, and does have to breathe. So, could he dig himself out before he suffocated?" I ask thoughtfully.
"No, we'll leave the other tunnel until after we get our scolding from Omni. Of course, I'll get the worse one." I say with a nervous smile. "Oh well, I was pretty stupid. I guess I have it coming."
SUBJ: Find him FROM: GrooToo 12/21/90 S#: 461840
Lets find the zm and get him. If he used magic missiles then he must be a mage, (DUHH). Probably a necromancer to deal with the undead. We should proceed cautiously and I volunteer to go ahead and scout. About 30 feet will let me move quietly and report quickly if I have a problem if that's ok with you Omni.
Selarin
***************************************
GM will this allow me to get the bonus in the Players handbook?
GrooToo
SUBJ: Johnathan FROM: Stretch611 12/22/90 S#: 400781
I understand a Fog Cloud would be in the realms of a Necromancer, but several other things I just cannot put my finger on makes me think otherwise. I still believe he may be an Illusionist or a Generalist Mage. But that it beside the point. I feel that when we find those who do not think, we should retreat, take care of the wounds and come back in full force. The damage we have done cannot be fully replaced and he knew we were coming before and was prepared.
If I remember correctly the priestess said we could use the temple as a base of operations while we are making several journeys into the lair of the Zombie Master, either she did not believe we were strong enough or she had an omen it would take up several trips. Since he should not be able to fortify the area we have attacked with out weakening the rest of his defenses I feel it is best to retreat back to the temple heal up choose different spells based upon what has happened and then journey in again.
SUBJ: Omni FROM: Omni Tuens 12/23/90 S#: 469741
"It is up to us all to decide... I can't very well order anyone forward, after what we've seen, and I certainly can't go alone. I favor continuing at this point, although I understand the hesitancy of mages to go forward with their spells drained. However, we must remember that this is a necromancer we're dealing with, and he can repair the damage we did with a few spells. I say we assault him now while his defenses are still damaged. What say the rest of you?"
Omni then continues forward in an effort to find the party members who 'drifted' off.
GM Notes:
Perrel and Arathnasis find no secret doors on the return trip. They rejoin the group not to far from where they first encountered the Zombie Master. All is quiet down here.
No, Selarin, you would not receive the bonus because it is not available to half-elves, only elves and halflings.
SUBJ: Perrel... (R) FROM: Count Kill 12/23/90 S#: 787720
"Ah, greetings friends..." I say a little sheepishly, as I walk up to the party. "I'm afraid I owe all of you an apology."
"What I did was very stupid, and could have caused you all harm as well as myself." Then I look at Omni.
"And I must apologize for ignoring your wizened leadership. My anger got the better of me. No disrespect was meant."
"I certainly will not let it happen again." I say, but with a little hint of doubt in my voice.
"But, Arathnasis and I have found out much about this place. We are certain that the miscreant we face must be down the other tunnel, as we searched the one tunnel and found nothing but cells."
"Omni, I would suggest that we just collapse the supports for the tunnel we know Zombie Master to be hiding down, but we don't know if he would have an alternate escape ready for just such an occasion."
"So, the only way to make sure his evil is ended is to go down that tunnel and finish the job ourselves."
"While I realize that we really can't head back to the fortress, we will probably need spells back again, if we're to put an end to his menace. So, might I suggest we pull back into the mausoleum, and pray and study for spells there, and then plunge back down."
"This way we'll have some spells, and we won't give him all that much time to refortify, or maybe even escape."
SUBJ: Tristan FROM: FrankP25 12/23/90 S#: 473119
I suggest that we go on ahead. We can't wait. If we come up against him, I'll use my spells to destroy him. If we come up against a horde of undead, I will also. I'm not going to be hesitant if it is a powerful force.
SUBJ: Arathnasis FROM: Wildchilde 12/24/90 S#: 424584
Returning with Perrel.
"It seems that we lost 'em. I say that we press on and take care of him now. If we go back to the Mausoleum we are open for attack, I know I for one couldn't sleep in such a place. If we are to retreat we should go back to the temple and rest there.
I do think we should take him out now though"
If we do decide to press on I will offer to take the point.
SUBJ: Omni FROM: Omni Tuens 12/25/90 S#: 793066
Omni frowns deeply upon Perrel once he finds the cleric.
"I'm sure you really are sorry, Perrel. And it will NOT happen again... but you still must keep in mind that this Company is a team... together we're a powerful force, but if we start running off alone, it can only lead to trouble."
Omni pokes at Perrel's scorched clothes as he says this for emphasis. He looks around and listens carefully to what the two have to say of their scouting before speaking himself.
"Tristan, can your spells work against the living as well? This Zombie Master is certainly not one of the undead monstrosities we've encountered before. Perrel will certainly vouch for that. As for our options, I think we can pretty much rule out going back to the temple. It would simply take too much time, time that we can't afford to give to the Zombie Master. I have nothing against resting briefly in the mausoleum if mages and priests wish to restore their spells, but we can't loiter for long. I'm ready to move on the Zombie Master at anytime."
Omni smiles grimly at this idea, then winces slightly as he looks down at a bloodstain on his side. He quickly amends to his previous comments, "A healing spell or two first wouldn't be so bad, though."
SUBJ: Schar
The healer lets out a sigh of relief when the two scouts return. She smiles as Omni scolds them.
"I too must agree. We must continue to attack. It is the Zombie Master himself that we must concentrate on. The priests should be able to turn the majority of the undead that we encounter."
Noting Omni's subtle request for healing, I'll use my second CLW on him.
"This will make you feel better."
SUBJ: Argent
'As I already stated, we must not give him time to regain his spells. We may be low on our spells, but a warrior can defeat a spelless mage any day.'
Assuming we move on, I'll be near the rear of the party, ready to cast a Color Spray as needed.
GM Notes:
Omni is healed to 36 of 39 Hit Points
Spectrum's Comments: Next time: the search for the Zombie Master continues!