PrP: Guardians at the Gate

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Log Info

  • Title: Guardians at the Gate
  • Emitter: Benthus
  • Characters: Laefwyn (Clr6) Alakton (Cav4) Pips (Sor2) Rhar (Cav9) Renfrey (Rog9) Taro (Bbn1/Rgr3)
  • Place: Alexandros
  • Time: Jan 4, 2015
  • Summary: Protect the villagers from an army of evil monsters.
  • APL: 6
  • Encounter A: 2x ogres(CR2), 10x oruchs(CR1/3), CR6
  • Encounter B: 2x ogres(CR2), 1x Lvl6 Evil Mage (CR5). CR7

(Start of Scene)

The day started out relatively well for the people of New Townswich, a little village located within the region of Alexandros. The sun has been shinning all day with no snow precipitation at all. The children were allowed to go out and play in their area, enjoying the cool yet sunny weather. The older folks go about their work with better spirits than they usually do during the winters. As the day wore on and people begin to think that this is the best day of the year, claxon horns are sounded by the sentry towers. Enemy forces have approached their village.

People at first just stood staring and listening to the horns blaring, hoping that it was all a farce. But when people begin running and screaming, it is then that they all know that this is not a drill. Men, women and children begin to run towards their respective stations. Men make way to the village hall as weapons and arms are being distributed to all able-bodied man, and even women help by carrying weapons and ammunition to the walls. The rest of the populace gather within the village hall, making sure that all of the inhabitants who can’t bear arms are accounted for.

Of the two gates leading inside the village, the one connected to the main road heading towards Alexandria is being besieged. Feral Oruchs, with their allies of goblins and gnolls use battering rams to break the main gate down. Some of their numbers use fallen logs and prop it on the side of the wall to climb on. Archer and sentry men run along the ramparts of the wall as they deter any of their foes from scaling their defences. Volleys of arrows go flying from either side of the wall, doing their best to suppress the other side from doing anything, as ground troops continue to attack or defend.

It is a frenzy of chaotic activities with both sides either surging in or pulling back, trying to get the advantage over the other for position or martial dominance. A lot of people and monsters die at the gate area selling their lives dearly for their cause. It continues to go on for a few hours, but for those who are fighting it feels much, much longer...


All of a sudden, the oruchs sound their trumpets. There is a bit of confusion at the line of scrimmage as those who are fighting hard seem perplexed by the sound. And then, they begin to retreat from the walls. Oruchs, goblins and gnolls begin running for their lives, dropping their weapons and shields as they try to get away from the battle.

The defenders are, at first, confused as well, thinking that the battle was not decisively won yet. But many are relieved and roar their cries of victory. Then all of a sudden, some of the defenders begin to give chase to those who are retreating, leaving their posts behind. At first, the other defenders just wonder what is going on, and then realizing that their comrades are finishing the fight; they too participate and run after the retreating foes. The wall is almost left defenseless as almost all the defenders are out and overrunning their hated enemies, finishing those who are limping away and shooting down those who are making a run for their lives.

Inside the village, a joyous cry can be heard from its inhabitants, believing that the battle is theirs. And it is at this point of time, that several adventurers (You and your companions) approach the other gate of the village. The adventurers note something unusual is going on as the gates are closed. When they get close enough to the gate, a sentry man exclaims at see them. Apparently this person knows them, or have heard of their deeds. He rushes to open the gates and cries out, "We've routed the monsters! We've routed the monsters! They won’t be bothering us anymore"


Taro appears at the outskirts of the village. He looks tempted to join in the attack. On the side of the Oruchs. But he restrains himself and instead climbs up one of the walls to look out at the pursuit. "Hah. Was it the Broken Tusks? I bet it was the Broken Tusks...they never did know when to wait and when to rush."

GAME: Alakton rolls Knowledge/Military Theory: (16)+3: 19
You paged Alakton with 'It's a feignt. The defenders are lured out of the fortification while another force attacks it.'
Alakton pages: Do I have any idea of direction?
You paged Alakton with 'Let us assume that the first battle happened at the front/north gate. It is likely the other enemy force will come out from the back/south gate area.'

Renfrey walks up to the gate and gives it a kick "Sure sure, that's great and all but mind letting us in? Imagine there will be a celebration with lots of ale and food right?" he says chewing an apple "I can also repair the locking mechanisms on your main gate, for a fee of course."

Rhar amd Gurr are outside of Alexandria more than in it. The blaring horns drew them from their run in the woods. Loud noises mean trouble. But it's good news that greets them. "People safe? Enemy run?" Rhar holds up her sharper stick and howls. In joy.

"Sounds like we can go home." The dour Vanguard asides to her cavalier companion upon hearing their joyous cries. Laefwyn never has been one to question an early end and an easy day. However, if the guard is expecting a cookie for his efforts, he's come to the wrong bakery.

The armoured woman shifts her weight, her head turning to level her gaze on Alakton, a slender brow quirked and then furrowed in impatience. "Shall we?" She's already turning to walk away, whistling sharply to goad the gryphon the man rides to follow her, instead. Seems the lance-toting gentleman is little more than intricate baggage to her.

Pips looks shifts his oversized pack to get it sitting more comfortably on his back. He seems to have only been paying partial attention to his surroundings, as if suddenly realizing they arrived at the town he glances about. "Huh? The enemies are already beaten? Does that mean we can eat some food? I'm staaarrrving!"

<OOC> Benthus says, "Perception checks please."
GAME: Renfrey rolls perception: (14)+23: 37
GAME: Alakton rolls Perception: (7)+7: 14
GAME: Taro rolls perception: (2)+9: 11
GAME: Rhar rolls perception: (12)+16: 28
GAME: Laefwyn rolls perception: (20)+7: 27
GAME: Pips rolls perception: (6)+1: 7
You paged Renfrey with 'With your keen eyes, you see movements in at the edge of the forest. A lot of dark, shadowy figures can be seen there, shifting in the shadows.'
You paged Renfrey with 'It is to the south of the gate you are at at the moment.'

"What ho!" states Alakton, "I'm afraid that our job will not be as easy as that, Laefwyn." He wheels the Griffon around, raising his lance up into the air. "A feint! Designed to lead the defenders away so that the enemy can assault." The lance tip is whirled in the air for a moment, before he levels it off towards the southern gate. "I would advise that we advance to the southern gate! Honour and glory await! HUZZAH!" The Griffon gives an annoyed squawk, as, much like Lafewyn, it had little to no interest in actually getting involved in combat today.

Renfrey looks over at the forest "More incoming looks like from the woods, suppose it would be safer to get inside the gate." he comments as he draws his cloak about him, backing up into the shadow of the wall.

The lone sentry man looks confused as he shifts his gaze from adventurer to adventurer. "No, no, no. Let me explain it again. We won!" He smiles, or attempts to. "The enemy lost at the northern gate and are retreating. We won! We won. We... won?" He looks at everyone again and it begins to sink it.

The Southern gate is open...

Taro turns to look in the direction indicated. "Advance why...?" he asks suspiciously. Nevertheless he hops down off of the wall and begins to edge in that direction. "This better not be more Oruch!" he shouts as he goes.

Rhar turns around to look out the gate they entered. "More enemy? Where?" Gurr growls and pads to the gate opening. Both him and Rhar sniff the air and look around.

Pips was lost in thought again, but Alakton's voice wakes him from his thoughts in time to see the man waving the lance around and talking of fighting. "Huh? Wait, I thought- But I'm..." He looks as confused as the town guard, but he quickly gets his crossbow out and shuffles to put the rest of the party between him and the direction Renfrey pointed to.

Laefwyn stops dead in her tracks, her back and shoulders stiff, her chin high in the air... until her head drops forward. She lets out an audible, obvious sigh before she drags herself around and pulls her shield from her back, weapon-arm hanging limply at her side, dragging the spiked ball of her morningstar along with her. "We could have stayed gone." She reminds him, shoulders rolling as she moves to follow behind him. "We could have been happy." She's never happy. It's a lie. A trap! RUN, ALAKTON! "I could be sleeping..." She mutters under her breath.

There's a rush of noise that can be heard from the tree line, about 120 feet away from the front gate. It takes a moment to realize what it is. Multiple arrows have been set loose in your direction. (Reflex save, DC18)

GAME: Renfrey rolls reflex: (15)+14: 29
GAME: Alakton rolls Reflex: (13)+3: 16
GAME: Pips rolls refex: (3)+4: 7
GAME: Taro rolls reflex: (20)+5: 25 (CRITICAL SUCCESS)
GAME: Rhar rolls reflex: (20)+10: 30 (CRITICAL SUCCESS)
GAME: Laefwyn rolls reflex: (16)+4: 20
GAME: Benthus rolls 2d8: (9): 9
GAME: You damaged Alakton for 9 points. 32 remaining.
GAME: You damaged Pips for 9 points. 6 remaining.
Alakton pages: Do I get to use my mounted combat feat to try and wheel the Griffon to avoid getting hit?
You paged Alakton with 'Too many to avoid sadly. Picture this scene like that of the movie '300' where the arrows darken the sky.'
<OOC> Alakton says, "Then we will hug in the shade."
<OOC> Benthus says, "Alakton, Pips and the sentry man get hit by arrows..."

So many arrows in the sky... It looks distracting. Or it was meant to be. But when the arrows begin their decent on the people at the southern gate, it becomes frightful. Alakton, who was at the front of the group gets peppered by arrows. So did Pip. The sentry man got it worst. He dies from his wound.

Pips lets out a squeaky yelp as a few arrows scrape him with one hitting him in the shoulder directly. "Eeep!" He dashes through the gate, hiding around the side of the wall to collect his thoughts. "Lots of arrows!"

Renfrey neither advances or retreats but moves sideways and tries to find cover in the shadow of the wall, hoping not to be seen as he draws his shortbow in preparation to return fire.

Taro peers up at the sky at the sound. His eyes grow wide as he spots the flying arrows, with one heading directly at him. With once-in-lifetime timing he sidesteps neatly, ending up in one of the spots where no arrows are falling. "We can see that!" he growls. "Cowards!" This time he's looking at the trees, one fist raised and shaking at them for good measure. In truth he doesn't blame them for shooting arrows. He'd shoot back if only he carried a bow of his own.

<OOC> Renfrey is trying to be stealthy.
GAME: Renfrey rolls stealth+2: (8)+26+2: 36

The southern gates remain open...

Rhar and Gurr Dart close to the wall when the arrows come and Rhar holds up her shield in defense. "Many sharp sticks! Get stick-throwers!"

It is with a series of audible grunts, and a pained squawk or two, that indicate that Alakton and the Griffon have been righteously peppered with arrows. His knees push into the sides of the animal as it reaches around and yanks one arrow from its flank with its beak, letting out a clicking hiss before it trots forwards, leading the pair into the cover of the walls. "Well, Laefwyn, isn't this fun?! We're fighting against a small army! What better place to show the righteousness of Serriel! What better place to show them WHAT IS WHAT! Just wait until they decide to charge! Then there will be JUSTICE." He shouts this at the woman as he reaches up, grabbing an arrow and removing it with an audible grunt of pain from his shoulder, allowing the limb free movement once more. "Just a flesh wound! HA HA!"

<OOC> Benthus says, "Perception check please."
GAME: Rhar rolls perception: (15)+16: 31
GAME: Renfrey rolls perception: (8)+23: 31
GAME: Pips rolls perception: (6)+1: 7
GAME: Alakton rolls Perception: (7)+7: 14
GAME: Laefwyn casts Bless. Caster Level: 6 DC: 15
GAME: Laefwyn rolls perception: (4)+7: 11
GAME: Taro rolls perception: (3)+9: 12

Laefwyn huffs out another disgruntled noise, turning to a bit of a guttural growl as she turns and jogs toward the gate, moving to make attempts at closing it. In this action, she has moved to take cover, but also attempts to make it harder for the enemy to get at the less-prepared within the town. She won't admit it, but it's at least a little exciting. Her hands begin to glow against the gate's surface, her eyes momentarily closing, "Fear no enemy! Have at them!" She calls, most probably to Alakton, continuing with her efforts to close up shop as a ripple of light pulses out from her location.

At the edge of the tree line, many figures can be seen moving out of cover and heading towards the southern gate. Without the trees to hide their forms, the enemies' identity is revealed. Feral Oruchs, with their goblin and gnoll allies make their way forward. First they march, and then they begin to trot, and then they begin to charge, all heading towards the closing gate...

<OOC> Benthus says, "Laefwyn, make a strength check DC20 to push the gate close. You have two tries' to accomplish it or the enemies will be able to get inside the village."
<OOC> Benthus says, "Roll your first attempt..."
<OOC> Taro says, "Can some of us try to help?"
<OOC> Benthus says, "Of course."
GAME: Laefwyn rolls strength: (15)+2: 17
<OOC> Benthus says, "Fail."
GAME: Taro rolls strength: (16)+4: 20
<OOC> Laefwyn says, "Yay, Taro. :p"
<OOC> Benthus says, "Taro makes it. Pose pushing the gates close."

Grunting continues, eyes squeezing shut as she tries and tries valiently to get the gate closed. "Nghff!" She huffs, boots sliding in the dirt and sand. "Somebody help me get this blasted thing closed!" Laefwyn calls to the others.

Taro glares at the Oruchs and other monsters as they approach. He's been backpedaling his way inside the gates, but when Laefwyn mentions closing them he suddenly realuzes the sense in this and moves to add his strength to the effort. Once the doors are closed he glances at Laefwyn. "Those are no ordinary Oruchs," he remarks.

Rhar and Gurr bound to the inside of the gates. To help with the gates, though maybe they'll get closed before they get there to help.

<OOC> Benthus says, "Okay, before we go into init, I would like people to roll several dice for me. Starting with, again, perception."
GAME: Alakton rolls perception: (19)+7: 26
GAME: Renfrey rolls perception: (14)+23: 37
GAME: Laefwyn rolls perception: (3)+7: 10
GAME: Pips rolls perception: (13)+1: 14
GAME: Rhar rolls perception: (5)+16: 21
GAME: Taro rolls perception: (3)+9: 12

(Perception check) An army of oruch with goblin and gnoll allies begin to march towards the village’s secondary gate. There are roughly around two hundred in numbers. (DC20) There are three pairs of ogres seen at the middle of their formation. Each pair is carrying a battering ram. (DC30) A robed Mul’niessa can be seen at the far rear, carrying a wand that seems to be wreathed in flaming energy.'

With his head craning around so he can get a good look at the charging army, Alakton seems to visibly cheer up, despite the fact that he is leaking all over his good armour. "LOOK LAEFWYN! THEY HAVE OGRES! OGRES! HOORAY!" The Cavalier hauls up his lance, tucking it in as he wheels the griffon around, trotting it back from the gate to make some space for a decent charge, if/when they break through.

Rhar urges Gurr up onto the wall to watch the incoming army. Spying big ogres with big sticks, she points. "Big ones! Big sticks. To break big door! Door protect people! Protect door!" Gurr growls and lowers, waiting to spring.

GAME: Renfrey rolls knowledge/local: (17)+16: 33
You paged Renfrey with '(Knowledge/local) DC10: The name of the present mayor of the village is Wakefield Knotley. He has been the mayor of the village for nearly 18 years. He is a hard man but cares deeply for every member of his village, including those who should be kicked out of it. His leadership has never been contested, but he is feeling his age now, especially after a near fatal heart-attack. Although his left arm is paralyzed, he is still able to move about, albeit limping. He often delegates responsibilities to his three sons. DC15: There is rumours that Wakefield’s fourth son despises him and would very much want control of the village to himself. He is known to be a shady person of who most, if not all of the other villagers, prefer not to be associated with. It is only out of respect to the mayor that he is still allowed in the village. DC20: There is said to be a secret organization that is working within the village that is interested in a special material that has just been recently detected on the shores of the village. Powerful men are trying to vie for control of the village, but the villagers are quite faithful to the present mayor.'
<OOC> Benthus says, "12 feet (Upon reading the logs, the wall should definitely be taller). It's made of stone with steps leading towards its ramparts."
<OOC> Benthus says, "If you have knowledge of the following subjects, please roll them. Arcana, engineering, geography, history, local, nature."


       Benthus has dropped a TIMESTOP!
GAME: Renfrey rolls initiative: Roll: 8 + Bonus: 10 = Total: 18
GAME: Alakton rolls initiative: Roll: 9 + Bonus: 2 = Total: 11
GAME: Pips rolls initiative: Roll: 4 + Bonus: 3 = Total: 7
GAME: You roll initiative for The Horde: Roll: 10 + Bonus: +4 = Total: 14
GAME: Taro rolls initiative: Roll: 9 + Bonus: 2 = Total: 11
GAME: Rhar rolls initiative: Roll: 10 + Bonus: 4 = Total: 14
GAME: Laefwyn rolls initiative: Roll: 12 + Bonus: 1 = Total: 13

DM: There are two places that each character can choose to position themselves. They can be at the ramparts and attack anyone that tries to climb over the walls, or they can be at the gates defending it when it gets destroyed (and it will). It takes 2 rounds for a person from one position to transfer to the other position, so decide well on where you want to be. Because when timestop is dropped, you can no longer change your mind.

<OOC> Renfrey says, "If those are the two choices I will be atop the ramparts."
<OOC> Pips chooses ramparts as well
<OOC> Taro will stay at gates
<OOC> Alakton says, "I am at the gates."
<OOC> Laefwyn says, "Gates for me."
<OOC> Rhar says, "Oh. Guess we'll be at the gates. Was hoping to stop gate from being broken."

GAME: Benthus advances the initiative order.

     Round One - Init 18.
     It is now Renfrey's turn! The Horde is next!
<OOC> Renfrey says, "Ok, is an ogre within 30ft?"
<OOC> Benthus says, "One pair is already preparing to batter the gate down."
<OOC> Renfrey says, "OK, snipe action against one."
GAME: Renfrey rolls ranged+1: (7)+12+1: 20
GAME: Renfrey rolls 1d6+1+5d6: (6)+1+(15): 22
GAME: Renfrey rolls stealth+2-20: (14)+26+2+-20: 22
<OOC> Renfrey says, "To see if I remain hidden."

Renfrey draws an arrow to his shortbow and lines up one of the hulking ogres from a carefully concealed corner, with a deep breath he lets a black arrow go carefully aimed for the neck of the hulking brute and scores a painful hit.

GAME: Benthus advances the initiative order.

     Round One - Init 14.
     It is now The Horde's turn! Rhar is next!

Several Oruchs begin to place their make-shift ladders on the side of the wall and begin to climb over it. There are three oruchs who have managed to get up on the ramparts. At the gates, the first pair of ogres carrying a battering ram are in position and are starting to break the gate down.

GAME: Benthus advances the initiative order.

     Round One - Init 14.
     It is now Rhar's turn! Laefwyn is next!

GAME: Note Flat-footed on Rhar ended.

<OOC> Rhar isn't sure what to do now that she can't do what she wanted to do.
<OOC> Benthus says, "Brace the gate?"
<OOC> Rhar and Gurr can do that! "Gurr can brace, Rhar aids?"
<OOC> Benthus nods, "Roll opposing strength check, DC 20."
"Protect door! Door protect pack!" Rhar shouts to everyone. Gurr moves his sizable wolfishness against it and Rhar leans on it to. An extra 30 pounds never hurt!
GAME: Rhar rolls strength: (11)+4: 15
GAME: Rhar rolls 1d20+11: (11)+11: 22

Rhar assists Gur in bracing the gate against the ogres' battering ram.

GAME: Benthus advances the initiative order.

     Round One - Init 13.
     It is now Laefwyn's turn! Taro is next!

GAME: Note Flat-footed on Laefwyn ended.

Laefwyn pages: Shield of Faith
Long distance to Laefwyn: Benthus nods, "Cast and pose."
GAME: Laefwyn casts Shield of Faith. Caster Level: 6 DC: 15

"Keep holding!" Laefwyn calls out to those aiding behind the gate, "We must stand!" Once more, her palms glow, and then her shield, and then the breastplate that she wears; holy symbols of Serriel setting steel awash with brilliant blessings. She braces herself for the coming attacks, readying herself to wade into the battle that seems so much bigger than her and her meager abilities.

GAME: Benthus advances the initiative order.

     Round One - Init 11.
     It is now Taro's turn! Alakton is next!

GAME: Note Flat-footed on Taro ended.

<OOC> Taro says, "I will help with the door."
GAME: Taro rolls strength: (18)+4: 22

Taro rushes over and plants his back against the gates to help hold them shut - even though the others seem to be managing. "We can't let them in!" he bellows. "There are hundreds!!" The way he's pushing against the gate leaves his hands free, and after a moment he lifts his axe and tries to set it alongside the gate's bar, to add the enchanted weapons rugged strength to that of the bar.

GAME: Benthus advances the initiative order.

     Round One - Init 11.
     It is now Alakton's turn! Pips is next!

GAME: Note Flat-footed on Alakton ended.

<OOC> Alakton says, "Ready a charge on the first Ogre through."

Settling himself in comfortably in his saddle as the griffon finishes its trotting backwards, Alakton rolls his shoulders, pausing to let out a hiss of pain from his shoulder. "Damnation," He mutters, before he raises his lance and locks it into place under his arm, the other hand tightening around the reins of the griffon.

GAME: Benthus advances the initiative order.

     Round One - Init 7.
     It is now Pips' turn! Renfrey is next!

GAME: Note Flat-footed on Pips ended.

<OOC> Benthus says, "Pips, there are three oruch on the ramparts. More are climbing over. Action please."
<OOC> Pips says, "Color Spray on the ogres."
GAME: Pips casts Color Spray. Caster Level: 2 DC: 15
GAME: Benthus rolls 1d20-1: (5)+-1: 4
GAME: Benthus rolls 1d20-1: (8)+-1: 7
GAME: Pips rolls 1d4: (2): 2
GAME: Pips rolls 1d4: (2): 2

Pips looks over the wall at the ogres battering the door and gasps, "Hey, stop that!" He lets loose a blast of rainbow colored light at the ogres, smiling happily when two of them seem to no longer know what is going on. "Ha!"

GAME: NEW ROUND!

     Benthus advances the initiative order.
     Round Two - Init 18.
     It is now Renfrey's turn! The Horde is next!
<OOC> Renfrey says, "Snipe action against orcs on the wall."
<OOC> Benthus says, "Roll it."
GAME: Renfrey rolls ranged+1: (7)+12+1: 20
<OOC> Benthus says, "Hit, damage."
GAME: Renfrey rolls 1d6+1+5d6: (1)+1+(21): 23
GAME: Renfrey rolls stealth+2-20: (4)+26+2+-20: 12

Renfrey kills one of three Oruchs who got up on the wall's ramparts.

GAME: Benthus advances the initiative order.

     Round Two - Init 14.
     It is now The Horde's turn! Rhar is next!

Dark elf extends his hand out and aims at where Renfrey just poked his head out. Several magic missiles go hurtling towards the sniper...

GAME: Benthus rolls 3d4+3: (6)+3: 9
GAME: You damaged Renfrey for 9 points. 58 remaining.

The ogres continue to batter the gates, there are two pairs doing it now.

The three oruchs who got to the top first are securing the area for the rest of their allies to climb over. More oruchs begin to climb up the walls. There are nine now...

Renfrey is like a shadow on the ramparts, carefully picking an orc off the wall with another arrow in the unprotected neck. However this time he's spotted as he draws another arrow.

GAME: Benthus advances the initiative order.

     Round Two - Init 14.
     It is now Rhar's turn! Laefwyn is next!
<OOC> Benthus says, "Rhar, door's DC to hold has increased to 25. Roll it."
<OOC> Rhar and Gurr will keep trying to be furry doorstops.
GAME: Rhar rolls strength: (12)+4: 16
GAME: Rhar rolls 1d20+11: (10)+11: 21

Even Gurr's lupine mass may not be enough to halt an army of Oruchs and Ogres. He's a wolf, not a doorstop! He and Rhar shudder from the impact, and the wolfling even bounces some. "Door not stronger than big sticks!"

GAME: Benthus advances the initiative order.

     Round Two - Init 13.
     It is now Laefwyn's turn! Taro is next!
GAME: Laefwyn casts Bull's Strength. Caster Level: 6 DC: 16
<OOC> Laefwyn says, "Am I able to assist with the door?"
<OOC> Benthus says, "You may, roll to assist Gur. It was at 21 already."
GAME: Laefwyn rolls strength+2: (11)+2+2: 15

The blessings continue to stack as Laefwyn bathes herself in divine glory. She turns and hurls her form against the door as it begins to crack, her head shaking. "We're losing it! Alakton!" She grits her teeth, bouncing off the door as the ram impacts again, slamming back against it with a grunt. "BE USEFUL FOR A CHANGE!" She demands, urgency in her tone.

GAME: Benthus advances the initiative order.

     Round Two - Init 11.
     It is now Taro's turn! Alakton is next!
<OOC> Taro will also aid another with the door :)
<OOC> Benthus says, "Taro, roll your assist."
GAME: Taro rolls strength: (1)+4: 5 (EPIC FAIL)

Taro feels the gate shuddering and suddenly thinks twice of pressing his back against it. He turns at just the wrong time and is out of place and not helping at all the next time an Oruch slams into it. Luckily others are there to take up the slack!

GAME: Benthus advances the initiative order.

     Round Two - Init 11.
     It is now Alakton's turn! Pips is next!
<OOC> Alakton says, "I'll advance with griffon and we'll both shove up against the door."
<OOC> Alakton says, "Mount has land speed of 40'."
GAME: Alakton rolls Strength: (8)+4: 12
GAME: Alakton rolls 1d20+2: (9)+2: 11

"HUZZAAAAH." Cavalier's generally charge at almost anything, so Alakton doesn't generally disappoint when the Griffon comes charging up, ramming both of their forms against the door. The griffon digs its four clawed talons into the ground, holding itself there as the Cavalier rams his figure up against the door to keep it firmly held in place. "I'M USEFUL."

GAME: Benthus advances the initiative order.

     Round Two - Init 7.
     It is now Pips' turn! Renfrey is next!
<OOC> Benthus says, "Pips, there are nine oruchs on the ramparts."
<OOC> Benthus says, "Action, please."
<OOC> Pips says, "I will Color Spray as many as I can"
<OOC> Benthus says, "Cast away."
GAME: Pips casts Color Spray. Caster Level: 2 DC: 15
GAME: Benthus rolls 1d20-1: (5)+-1: 4
GAME: Benthus rolls 1d20-1: (5)+-1: 4
GAME: Benthus rolls 1d20-1: (17)+-1: 16
GAME: Benthus rolls 1d20-1: (20)+-1: 19
GAME: Benthus rolls 1d20-1: (5)+-1: 4
GAME: Benthus rolls 1d20-1: (6)+-1: 5
<OOC> Benthus says, "You manage to get 4 of them. Two of them are raising their axes to kill you.  The other three continue to secure their area for more oruchs to climb over"
GAME: Pips rolls 2d4: (4): 4
GAME: Pips rolls 2d4: (4): 4
GAME: Pips rolls 2d4: (8): 8
GAME: Pips rolls 2d4: (4): 4

Pips, not fully paying attention, suddenly realizes that there are a lot of oruchs on this rampart with him! He lets out a small EEEP and lets fly another color spray at the oruchs. Though he catches four of the six, the other two don't look too happy. "Uh oh."

GAME: NEW ROUND!

     Benthus advances the initiative order.
     Round Three - Init 18.
     It is now Renfrey's turn! The Horde is next!
<OOC> Renfrey says, "Ok, full round attack 2 shots at the 2 conscience oruchs."
GAME: Renfrey rolls ranged+1: (9)+12+1: 22
GAME: Renfrey rolls ranged+1-5: (5)+12+1+-5: 13
<OOC> Benthus says, "Those hit. Roll damages."
<OOC> Renfrey says, "Did they see me last turn? Do I get sneak attack?"
<OOC> Benthus says, "You may."
GAME: Renfrey rolls 1d6+1+5d6: (4)+1+(16): 21
GAME: Renfrey rolls 1d6+1+5d6: (4)+1+(23): 28
<OOC> Benthus says, "Pose their greasly deaths."
<OOC> Renfrey says, "Definitely not stealthed any more."

Renfrey stands up from his crouch and draws an other arrow catching two more orcs in the neck and kidney, one feathered shaft after another to take down the hulking brutes and momentarily clearing the rampart before more climb up.

GAME: Benthus advances the initiative order.

     Round Three - Init 14.
     It is now The Horde's turn! Rhar is next!
<OOC> Benthus says, "Alright, those at the gates, roll to brace the gate at DC30. Three pairs of ogres are now battering the gate."
GAME: Alakton rolls Strength: (10)+4: 14
GAME: Alakton rolls 1d20+2: (13)+2: 15
GAME: Rhar rolls strength: (9)+4: 13
GAME: Rhar rolls 1d20+11: (18)+11: 29
GAME: Laefwyn rolls strength+2: (3)+2+2: 7

Gate holds.

<OOC> Benthus says, "On the rampart, 6 more oruchs have climbed over."

<OOC> Benthus says, "Dark elf continues to pepper Renfrey from afar..."
GAME: Benthus rolls 3d4+3: (7)+3: 10
GAME: You damaged Renfrey for 10 points. 48 remaining.

The gates is being hammered heavily, now by three pairs of ogres simultaneously. But despite their raw brute force, the gate continues to hold. At the walls, more oruchs begin to climb up the wall and there are not 9 more that have made it to the ramparts. They surge towards the defenders located there. The dark elf located at the forest end continues to be a pest for Renfrey as he fires more magic missiles at him.

GAME: Benthus advances the initiative order.

     Round Three - Init 14.
     It is now Rhar's turn! Laefwyn is next!

"Gurr stronger than sticks!" Rhar growls out at the ogres from their side of the gate. The triple-bashing rattles the gate like mad, and shakes wolf and wolfling. But it holds. For now. Power of the pack!

GAME: Benthus advances the initiative order.

     Round Three - Init 13.
     It is now Laefwyn's turn! Taro is next!

       "He is, ngh.." Laefwyn continues straining against the door, eyes narrowed, "An impressive beast. Should we survive this, I really must get him some, nnghrabbits." She continues to bounce every time the door is struck. Her attentions are turned to the civilians still in the vicinity. "Get to the hall and stay there! This is no place for the unprepared!" She issues a directive.

GAME: Benthus advances the initiative order.

     Round Three - Init 11.
     It is now Taro's turn! Alakton is next!
<OOC> Taro wants to run up the ramparts and do something. Push away a ladder or bull rush one of Oruchs off? Or if not just stand next to Pips.
<OOC> Benthus says, "It takes two rounds to get there. You sure?"
<OOC> Taro dohs...even if I double move? My speed is also 40'
<OOC> Taro says, "Don't want to leave poor Pips facing all those Oruchs alone"
<OOC> Renfrey is up there as well!
<OOC> Benthus will compromise and let you get there before next round. Pose if this is what you really want.

Taro is backing away from the gate now, tiny half-steps at first but in the wrong direction. His eyes are getting bigger and bigger. "Hundreds..." he murmurs. Finally the Flight instinct wins out and he turns to run! He almost plows into the griffin and veers away. Now he's running in the direction of the ramparts. Still not thinking clearly he bounds up and then comes to a stop at the sight if the fighting and Oruchs spilling over the walls.


GAME: Benthus advances the initiative order.

     Round Three - Init 11.
     It is now Alakton's turn! Pips is next!

GAME: Alakton rolls Strength: (12)+4: 16 GAME: Alakton rolls 1d20+2: (2)+2: 4

A Cavalier and his Griffon consistently shove themselves up against a gate that ogres are trying to ram themselves through. To put it bluntly, this sucks. Like, really sucks. Cause there's Ogres on the other side and they really do not smell very good at all, and this is coming from a man who deals with Griffon dung. The Griffon turns to look at Laefwyn for a second at the promise of rabbit, and squawks hungrily.

GAME: Benthus advances the initiative order.

     Round Three - Init 7.
     It is now Pips' turn! Renfrey is next!
<OOC> Pips says, "MORE COLOR SPRAY! on the Oruchs. Because they are mean"
GAME: Pips casts Color Spray. Caster Level: 2 DC: 15
GAME: Benthus rolls 1d20-1: (2)+-1: 1
GAME: Benthus rolls 1d20-1: (12)+-1: 11
GAME: Benthus rolls 1d20-1: (8)+-1: 7
GAME: Benthus rolls 1d20-1: (3)+-1: 2
GAME: Benthus rolls 1d20-1: (18)+-1: 17
GAME: Benthus rolls 1d20-1: (4)+-1: 3
GAME: Benthus rolls 1d20-1: (17)+-1: 16
GAME: Pips rolls 2d4: (4): 4
GAME: Pips rolls 2d4: (5): 5
GAME: Pips rolls 2d4: (5): 5
GAME: Pips rolls 2d4: (6): 6
GAME: Pips rolls 2d4: (5): 5
<OOC> Pips says, "So, lots of unconcious oruchs"
<OOC> Benthus says, "Two of them manage to get away from the spray. There are two more that were not covered by the spray and make their way towards Pips."
<OOC> Benthus says, "Yes, there is a pile of stunned oruchs at the ramparts."

Pips blasts out another cone of fabulously colored lights at the oruchs, but they are beginning to overwhelm him. He watches as five more fall unconcious, but four others are still not dealt with. "Uhhh, Renfrey? I think we miiiight have a problem."

GAME: NEW ROUND!

     Benthus advances the initiative order.
     Round Four - Init 18.
     It is now Renfrey's turn! The Horde is next!
<OOC> Benthus says, "Renfrey, four mobile oruchs on the rampart."
<OOC> Renfrey says, "drop the bow and move on one with my rapier."
GAME: Renfrey rolls finesse+2: (5)+12+2: 19
GAME: Renfrey rolls 1d6+2: (1)+2: 3

Renfrey draws his rapier and moves to close with an ourch, the end of his rapier cutting one across the arm. "Gentleman, your mothers send their regard, they were fantastic fun in bed last night." he says in Oruch with a grin as he dodge and weaves throw axe blows although one catches him across the back.

GAME: Benthus advances the initiative order.

     Round Four - Init 14.
     It is now The Horde's turn! Rhar is next!
<OOC> Benthus says, "Okay, the four oruchs gather around Renfrey and attack him.."
GAME: Benthus rolls 1d20+7: (14)+7: 21
GAME: Benthus rolls 1d20+7: (5)+7: 12
GAME: Benthus rolls 1d20+7: (18)+7: 25
GAME: Benthus rolls 1d20+7: (20)+7: 27
GAME: Benthus rolls 1d20+7: (15)+7: 22
GAME: Benthus rolls 1d12+4: (12)+4: 16
GAME: You damaged Renfrey for 16 points. 32 remaining.
<OOC> Benthus says, "Two pairs of ogres continue to pound on the wall. The wall finally breaks down, its integrity finally shattered. Oruchs begin to charge into the gap, along with the goblins and gnoll allies. The ogres drop their battering rams and engage as well. They (ogres) will be the first to attack the heroes."
<OOC> Benthus says, "Ogres bullrush against Gurr."
<OOC> Rhar says, "Ooh! AoOs?"
<OOC> Benthus says, "Sure."
<OOC> Alakton says, "I got reach with the lance."
<OOC> Benthus says, "Okay. Alakton, you go first since you have reach."
<OOC> Rhar says, "How many bullrushing?"
<OOC> Benthus says, "Two."
GAME: Alakton rolls Melee+1: (14)+8+1: 23
GAME: Alakton rolls 1d20+4: (10)+4: 14 (Griffon miss)
GAME: Alakton rolls 1d8+6: (5)+6: 11
GAME: Rhar rolls weapon6+4: (18)+15+4: 37 (THREAT)
GAME: Rhar rolls weapon6+4: (16)+15+4: 35 (CRIT)
GAME: Rhar rolls weapon6+4: (9)+15+4: 28
GAME: Rhar rolls gurr bite+4: aliased to 1d20+3+4: (4)+3+4: 11
GAME: Rhar rolls gurr bite+4: aliased to 1d20+3+4: (16)+3+4: 23
GAME: Rhar rolls gurrattack+4: aliased to 1d20+6+4: (14)+6+4: 24
GAME: Rhar rolls gurrattack+4: aliased to 1d20+6+4: (13)+6+4: 23
GAME: Rhar rolls 2d4+10+1d6: (5)+10+(3): 18
GAME: Rhar rolls 1d4+5+1d6: (1)+5+(4): 10
GAME: Rhar rolls 1d8+10: (8)+10: 18
GAME: Rhar rolls 1d8+10: (3)+10: 13
<OOC> Benthus says, "One goes down."
GAME: Rhar rolls gurr trip: aliased to 1d20+15: (8)+15: 23
<OOC> Benthus says, "That trips the other."
<OOC> Benthus says, "The two ogres fail in their bullrush."
<OOC> Benthus says, "Elf waves his wand at those at the gate..."
<OOC> Benthus says, "Reflex save everyone. DC18."
<OOC> Benthus says, "Except Taro, renfrey and pips."
GAME: Rhar rolls reflex: (8)+10: 18
GAME: Alakton rolls reflex: (14)+3: 17
GAME: Laefwyn rolls reflex: (18)+4: 22
GAME: Benthus rolls 6d6: (22): 22
GAME: You damaged Alakton for 22 points. 10 remaining.
GAME: You damaged Rhar for 22 points. 54 remaining.
GAME: You damaged Laefwyn for 1 points. 67 remaining.
GAME: You damaged Laefwyn for 10 points. 57 remaining.
<OOC> Benthus says, "And the two four ogres who were behind the first two are killed in the blast."

The oruchs at the ramparts begin to converge on Renfrey, pushing over the stunned oruchs out of their way and dropping them off the wall and into their deaths. The start swinging at him with their great axes. Only one of them manages to bypass Renfrey's defenses and score a hit. It hurts.

The ogres finally break the gate down and begin to push inside. Two of the ogres are taken down by Alakton and Rhar/Gurr. The rest of the monsters continue to push in. The elf, finally had enough of it, and fires a spell using his wand at the gate. An explosion occurred killing many of those near the gate. The Oruch advance slackens...


GAME: Benthus advances the initiative order.

     Round Four - Init 14.
     It is now Rhar's turn! Laefwyn is next!
<OOC> Rhar says, "So, what is still moving at the gate or in front of me?"
<OOC> Benthus says, "The area is clear for the next 20 feet, rhar."
<OOC> Benthus says, "The fireball made sure of that."
<OOC> Rhar will take a swift and ready the rest to hold the line and wait for things to come in?
<OOC> Rhar tacticizes! "Everbyone gets Seize the Moment! Confirm a threat and the crit'd target provokes AoO from anyone else threatening it."
<OOC> Rhar says, "Anyone who can hear her within 30 feet"

"No let in! Stay toegether! Stay strong! Go for belly! Go for throat! Pack keep all out!" Rhar howls to everyone. Even the horde outside. She also adds "RHAR!" To properly introduce herself to them. So they know who's going to help stop them. She has manners.

GAME: Benthus advances the initiative order.

     Round Four - Init 13.
     It is now Laefwyn's turn! Taro is next!
<OOC> Laefwyn says, "Channel energy, selective channel."
GAME: Laefwyn rolls 3d6: (10): 10
GAME: You damaged Pips for -10 points. 15 remaining.
GAME: You damaged Taro for -10 points. 42 remaining.
GAME: You damaged Alakton for -10 points. 20 remaining.
GAME: You damaged Renfrey for -10 points. 42 remaining.
GAME: You damaged Rhar for -10 points. 64 remaining.
GAME: You damaged Laefwyn for -10 points. 67 remaining.

"We MUST stand!" Laefwyn repeats her earlier sentiment as she's struck, like others around her. She lifts her morningstar to slam it against the side of her shield, the resounding clang carrying with it the visible element of Serriel's radiant light. "We will not fall here today!" She makes her attempt at rallying, ignoring the sharp pain of her wound.

GAME: Benthus advances the initiative order.

     Round Four - Init 11.
     It is now Taro's turn! Alakton is next!
<OOC> Benthus says, "Taro, you reach the top of the ramparts. The Oruch are still trying to get up the wall."
<OOC> Taro says, "Can I push down some ladders?"
<OOC> Benthus says, "Sure. Make a strenght check of DC15."
<OOC> Taro says, "Oh or actually how far am I from Renfrey and his new friends"
<OOC> Benthus says, "30 feet."
GAME: Taro rolls strength: (18)+4: 22

Taro sees a horde of Oruchs surrounding Renfrey. The grunts and war cries of others draw Taro's eyes to the ladders, and then he finally understands how they are getting onto the walls. He moves along the rampart, shoving ladders back off of the wall and shouting curses in Yrch down at the Oruchs that fall.

GAME: Benthus advances the initiative order.

     Round Four - Init 11.
     It is now Alakton's turn! Pips is next!
Alakton pages: How far away is the Elf?
You paged Alakton with 'alakton 120 feet.'
Alakton pages: Alright. MOving to cover and readying a stab on anyone who charges by.

The Cavalier and the Griffon are now deeply singed, but thankfully not dead singed, mostly thanks to the healing power of Laefwyn, and by that, we mean if the Cavalier dies he honestly wouldn't ever hear the end of it, so he's not dropping dead yet. The Griffon quickly limps off into cover as directed by the Cavalier, moving away from the broken down gate to lean against the wall. The Cavalier hauls up his Lance, prepping it for a stab on anyone unlucky enough to run by.

GAME: Benthus advances the initiative order.

     Round Four - Init 7.
     It is now Pips' turn! Renfrey is next!
<OOC> Benthus says, "Pips, Renfrey is in front of you and is being attacked by 4 big oruchs. Action?"
<OOC> Pips says, "I will shoot my Elemental Ray at the one Renfrey already hit"
GAME: Pips rolls ranged-4: (16)+5+-4: 17
GAME: Pips rolls 1d6+1: (3)+1: 4

Pips feels a lot better suddenly, the wound he had disappearing. The relief lasts only a moment before he remembers Renfrey's predicament. He blasts out a wibbly, wobbly emerald-green ray at one of the oruchs, cheering when it falls from the acidic blast. "Woohoo!"

GAME: NEW ROUND!

     Benthus advances the initiative order.
     Round Five - Init 18.
     It is now Renfrey's turn! The Horde is next!
<OOC> Benthus says, "Renfrey, three oruchs on you, action please."
<OOC> Renfrey says, "any flanking to be had, with acrobatics if need be?"
<OOC> Benthus says, "Nope."
GAME: Renfrey rolls finesse+2: (4)+12+2: 18
GAME: Renfrey rolls finesse+2-5: (20)+12+2+-5: 29 (THREAT)
GAME: Renfrey rolls finesse+2-5: (19)+12+2+-5: 28
GAME: Renfrey rolls 1d6+2: (1)+2: 3
GAME: Renfrey rolls 2d6+4: (2)+4: 6

Renfrey carefully parries and dodges blows with his rapier and buckler before slicing one of the orcs up across the face, seems he has no compuction about where he attacks the ferocious foe.

GAME: Benthus advances the initiative order.

     Round Five - Init 14.
     It is now The Horde's turn! Rhar is next!
<OOC> Benthus says, "With the ladders pushed down, the oruchs have no way of getting back up the walls, but they are working on it. Some of them begin to push the fallen ladders back into place. The rest of the oruch horde charge into the gate. At the same time, the mage fires off another spell at the location of the broken down gate..."
<OOC> Benthus says, "DC18 reflex, please. For those at the gate."
GAME: Benthus rolls 6d6: (14): 14
Alakton pages: Does this include me this time?
<OOC> Laefwyn says, "2 of them?"
You paged Alakton with 'Yes.'
Alakton pages: Do I get less damage due to moving into cover from the fireball?
Long distance to Alakton: Benthus will allow it.
<OOC> Laefwyn says, "And am I still at the gate?"
<OOC> Benthus nods. Because Rhar asked you all to stand strong.
GAME: Alakton rolls 1d20+4: (4)+4: 8
GAME: Laefwyn rolls reflex: (18)+4: 22
GAME: Rhar rolls reflex: (3)+10: 13
<OOC> Benthus shrugs, "Sure."
GAME: You damaged Laefwyn for 7 points. 60 remaining.
GAME: You damaged Alakton for 7 points. 13 remaining.
GAME: You damaged Rhar for 14 points. 50 remaining.

Oruchs begin to push the fallen ladders back into place and begin to climb it up the walls. The two remaining oruch put on full defense against Renfrey's attacks. The other oruch horde rush into the gap only to be burned by an incoming fireball. The mage taunts the defenders at the gate (if anyone can hear him at 120 feet)...

GAME: Benthus advances the initiative order.

     Round Five - Init 14.
     It is now Rhar's turn! Laefwyn is next!
<OOC> Rhar will swing sticks and bites at anything coming into reach.
<OOC> Rhar will change her pose and go for fire-flinger then.

"Stay! Protect door! Rhar get fire thrower!" She wants to hold the line, but that isn't good if he's just going to keep burning them. And Gurr HATES the smell of burnt fur. Especially when it's his. So it doesn't take much her her to get him to go. He takes off like a furry rocket. A half-ton furry rocket.

GAME: Rhar rolls weapon6+2: (10)+15+2: 27
GAME: Rhar rolls 1d4+5+1d6: (3)+5+(5): 13

Many people don't like to be stepped on by a very big, very angry Gurr. This counts for oruchs Arvek, too! Maybe they figure sooty fire guy wanted to meet them, since he's taunting them. So they get out of the way to let them meet. With stick. Sharp metal stick hits sooty fire guy.

GAME: Benthus advances the initiative order.

     Round Five - Init 13.
     It is now Laefwyn's turn! Taro is next!
<OOC> Benthus says, "Channel away."
<OOC> Laefwyn says, "Actually... I'm gunna cure serious, spont."
GAME: Laefwyn rolls 3d8+6: (13)+6: 19
<OOC> Laefwyn says, "On Alakton"

Laefwyn's head jerks to the side, her shield moving up to protect her from the fierce blast of the mage's fireball, eyes squinting shut as she hisses in a breath. Turned and shielding, she catches Alakton and Siege, a brow quirking high on her features. "What are you doing here?! Go get that son of a bitch before we're all burnt to cinders! Do I have to do everything?!" She moves toward him, hand engulfed in light, warm and bright as she slaps it against his back, harshly shoving him forward on his mount. "Go! GO!"

GAME: Alakton's initiative total changed to 12.

GAME: Alakton rolls Melee+1+4: (8)+8+1+4: 21
GAME: Alakton rolls 1d8+18: (4)+18: 22
<OOC> Benthus says, "Ouch! That kills the mage."
<OOC> Alakton says, "I screwed up on that, it's 3d8, but hey, same effect yes."

"Thank you, Laefwyn."

"HUZZAAAHHH!"

The bright light of healing assists the Cavalier in shoving the Griffon forwards, where it gives a loud, angry squawk as it begins to rumble into a charge. This squawk is either aimed at the Cavalier, or at the mage throwing fireballs. Either way, there is a lot of anger aimed at something. The Cavalier's lance slowly lowers as he catches up to Gurr and Rhar, and his Lance comes down to strike the Mage, the force of the blow punching apart a chunk of the Mage's upper torso, casting it tumbling to the ground dead as the Cavalier begins to wheel around.

With the leader of the assault slain, the remaining oruchs and their allies become disorganized. Those who were planning on scaling the wall stop and begin to fall back. Those who were on the walls jump down to get away, provided they survive the fall. And many more follow suit. Eventually, all of the remaining oruchs begin to retreat, dropping weapons and shields to get back behind the tree line...

The southern gate is broken, but the line of defense is still secure. The enemies have not breached into the village proper. The villagers are surprised and shocked at what was transpiring elsewhere. The remainder of the village defenders return to their homes appalled that their actions nearly brought the fall of everyone they loved, including themselves. The mayor declares a celebration for the victory that would have been a defeat were it not for the adventurers. A statue is being commissioned to be made at the village square, and it is to be named 'Guardians of the Gate'.


(End of plot)