Treasure Seekers
Cast & Characters
Amur 'Nimblefingers' of the Red Buttons [played by Archangel] a level 1 (Half Elf of Elf Lineage) Rogue worships Hermes Tohmas Goodwood [played by Odyson] a level 1 (Human) Druid worships Atira Willem Bariendul [played by Jozan1] a level 1 (Human) Fighter worships Baldur Maithias Crowmarhte aka Crow [played by Tann'Talas] a level 1 (Elf) Ranger worships Betula Vincent Wysman [played by Kamina] a level 1 (Human) Knight worships Mars Bartimeous Dathier [played by Salvator Navaar] a level 1 (Human) Cleric worships Toft Mylos Goldspinner [played by Brundel] a level 1 (Gnome) Bard worships Amber O' The High Woods Jaufre Vanvoie [played by Tuned_Out] a level 1 (Human) Paladin worships Cedrus Elyra Nightshade [played by Angelic] a level 1 (Elf) Bard worships Brigit Areldor Glanolwath [played by Ziklag] a level 1 (Half Elf of Human Lineage) Illusionist worships Minerva
Crow was enjoying leading this group of Seekers, which he knew to be right, at least in his own mind, that it was always understood in the Detmold Forest that any Ranger, no matter how inexperienced, was the natural choice for leading a party of adventurers.

And who better to serve as his right hand and second-in-command, than his good friend Tohmas Goodwood, who the Ranger could count on to stand beside him, no matter what the odds, or the number of foes arrayed against them.

Crow and Tohmas made slow, but steady progress towards the sound of the Happy Water, noting along the way that there was no wood, no fauna, just piles and piles of irregular broken up rocks that were once parts of walls and buildings.

Nothing but rubble: broken fragments of rock resulting from the decay or destruction of a building. Yet, this rubble was easily a thousand times more and more, seemingly stretching in all directions as far, or even further, than the original boundaries of this once vast and glorious city.

In fact, Tohmas discovered that there was no sign of growing plants of any type whatsoever, so his Entangle Spell will not work here!

The ground was not level, as all 10 Seekers were walking over irregular piles of busted and broken rocks and stones that were once walls and buildings, so their footing was not too secure!

The two friends kept moving towards the sound of the water and in the distance noticing the rubble is piled irregularly, but the water cannot be seen due to the Rubble blocking any view!

The other 8 Seekers, intently examining every foot of terrain round about them, could see that there is No Wood or Metal and just piles and piles of irregular busted up rocks and stones!

Complete Desolation!

No Snakes!

No Rodents!

No Plants!

Just some Bugs crawling around here and there that the Birds swoop down upon and remove!

But where were the Birds now?

Both Crow and Tohmas were concluding together that things were just not natural here, but at least Crow could depend upon his trusted friend, no matter how unnatural the setting,

So much for the assumptions of an inexperienced Ranger!

Skeleton Pirates!
The sudden alarm from the Paladin at the rear of the irregular line following Tohmas froze every Seeker in his or her tracks for precious long moments; as 50 undead continued their death march to claim the lives of their unsuspecting prey!

15 to the east, 15 to the west and 20 to the south; relentlessly drawn to the living essence of the 10 Seekers, who stood staring at their steady approach, noting their tattered pirate clothes and their cutlasses brandished with a thirst for shedding the blood of the living!

Elyra broke into a song as the enemy approached.

"Bones are coming rattling on, rattling on, rattling on
Bones are coming rattling on, will we join them?

Never more they smell the rose, smell the rose, smell the rose
Never more they smell the rose, under feet they tromp them

Send them back into the grave, into the grave, into the grave
Send them back into the grave and save their souls"
Elyra had her twin swords drawn, but it was her song that provided a spark for her fellow Seekers to begin taking action against the oncoming undead skeletons!

Mylos did not see who shouted the warning so focussed as he was on finding treasure, but he was still fast to react. This was the first time that Mylos could remember his life being in danger. Back at the Modling River there was no one and nothing to worry about, even the trade route had been quiet enough when he had ventured out. Mylos was in a state of panic, but he did manage to get his crossbow drawn and with shaking hands secure the bolt fast in its groove. He was hoping to get some practice with the weapon but it looked as though he would have to learn the hard way...
Crow watched the nervous Gnome fumble with his light cross bow, in such a state of panic that the Bard had no inspirational song or chant to help bolster the morale of his fellow inexperienced Seekers!

Unfortunately, undeath was something that Willem has seen in the past, and by all the gods he wished they would stay there. He drew his broadsword and hefted it in two hands, looking around the group. He saw the oncoming skeletons through the rubble, and he swallowed hard as he realized how many there were. Three groups, left, right, and behind them. This was not a good situation at all.

"We should take one group on, I say the right. Fight them before the rest hit, but we dont' have much time!"
Crow observed some of the Seekers responding to the voice of Willem the Fighter!

Vincent snapped out of his thoughts as soon as he heard Jaufre yelled out about Skeletons walking towards them. Freezing in his spot for a moment, Vincent registered what he had just heard. "We should take one group on, I say the right. Fight them before the rest hit, but we dont' have much time!" Looking over to Willem, Vincent grinned. "Aye, a good plan! Let's show these undead freaks how true warriors fight!" For show he banged his sword against his shield and let out a holler.
The sudden clanging of sword on shield and holler from Vincent so unsettled the nervous Gnome Bard Mylos, that he quite by accident released the bolt, which fortunately flew in a southwesterly direction, instead of piercing one or more of his fellow Seekers!

Amber O' The High Woods must have been smiling and guiding the nervous Gnome's misguided bolt, as it sailed through the air above the rubble unimpeded, before striking against the rib cage of the next to last Skeleton Pirate furthest away from him, then ricocheting off the left forearm of the one at the end of the western line of approaching foes!

Both skeletons swayed a step or two, before resuming their relentless march to slay the living!

Crow just shook his head in disbelief at the result of Mylos' shot, unaware that his diety Amber O' The High Woods is indeed the Gnome Deity of Luck and Fine Brewing!

The quick thinking of the fighter sparked murmurs amongst those still uncertain how to proceed; it seemed a course may be set, but Jaufre was certain it should not be one taken recklessly. The Paladin nodded to Willem before raising his voice:

"Move quickly and together toward their ranks! Those capable weaken their number at range, so our blades be not overwhelmed! I'll watch the approaching ranks and cover the rear;" He swallowed hard, knowing what he must try to do. "By the divine light of Cedrus these twisted forms of men shall be repelled!"

To stand stalwart against such threats was forged into his spirit by his training. With caution and vigilance Jaufre surveyed the approaching ranks as they carried out their plan, a prayer ready on his lips; he was ready to call upon the divine to aid him in the sheltering of his companions.
Crow just stood rooted in his place, watching the members of the western flank rush to the east; while even the nervous Gnome was seeking the refuge of safety in numbers!

This was not how things were supposed to be, especially with a Ranger taking the lead, but the inexperience of all was exposed by this first of possibly many dangers!

Amur had pulled out his Sling, along with a couple of stones, running to a better vantage point on a pile of rubble, about 10 feet directly south of Crow; however, the Skeleton Pirates advancing from the west were still out of the range of his ready weapon.

As much as Bartimeous Dathier desired to engage the foe head on with his War Hammer, the Cleric of Toft was somehow impressed, perhaps by his deity, to follow the lead of the Paladin and give the assembled Seekers some breathing room against their foes!

With a sweeping gesture and a prayer to Toft on his lips, the Cleric somehow managed to cause 5 of the advancing Skeleton Pirates to freeze in their tracks, turn and begin marching in the opposite direction!

Tohmas turned seeing the oncoming undead. Willem then called out, "We should take one group on, I say the right. Fight them before the rest hit, but we dont' have much time!" With his quarter staff secured and his shield on his back Tohmas pulled his hunting and knocked an arrow. "I will follow you and take down what I can before you engage." Trotting after Willem Tohmas draw aim on the first skeleton to come into clear range and let the arrow fly while whispering a prayer to Altira to guide its flight. Surely this creatures were the cause of the blight on these ruins.
Crow felt his jaw drop as he watched his trusted friend abandon his post, following after the Fighter, instead of standing by the side of the Ranger!

Atira heeded the whispered prayer, even though the shot was not a straight one, but not as erratic as the bolt that Mylos had released moments earlier! The arrow found its mark against the right skull of one of the skeletons marching in the middle of the advancing line, causing it to falter momentarily, but not enough to prevent it from advancing in line with the others, seeking to spill the blood of the living!

Crow could not help stifle a smile at the result of the marginal success of his friend's hasty shot.

Meanwhile, the Paladin Jaufre took one last look over his shoulder, noting that Areldor had moved his Staff to his back, in favor of fighting with his Club, at the side of the beautiful Bard Elyra who stood next to the Cleric of Toft; while Willem and Vincent were side by side, about 5 feet ahead of Tohmas and Bartimeous, standing their ground and ready to dispatch the advancing foes!

Perhaps it was in those few seconds of looking back that the Paladin somehow lost his focus, or perhaps it was his inexperience, but try as he might, Jaufre had failed to disperse any of the 20 advancing Skeleton Pirates that were steadily gaining ground from behind the Seekers!

Crow felt a momentary pang of fear try to grip him, realizing that the inexperienced Seekers were now in dire straits, unless they could somehow band together in the face of this danger and somehow find a way to survive!

Note from the Castle Keeper:

The Skeleton Pirates are now surrounding the Seekers on 3 sides as follows:

15 from the west are 40 feet from Crow and Amur.

10 from the east are 45 feet from Mylos; 40 feet from Tohmas, Bartimeous, Elyra, Areldor and Jaufre; 35 feet from Willem and Vincent.

20 from the south are 40 feet from Jaufre.

The 5 Turned Skeleton Pirates Will Not Be Cowering At Any Time and Will Eventually Return!

Skeleton Pirates have the first Initiative move and will close the gap by another 30 feet, which means Each Player will be able to move their Character to engage in Melee Battle!

On a Direct Line, there is now 20 feet between Crow and Tohmas; 25 feet between Amur and Vincent; while there is 5 feet south and 15 feet east between Mylos and Amur; while there is 5 feet south between Crow and Amur.

There is 25 feet south between Tohmas and Jaufre; occupied at 5 feet spaces by Willem, Vincent, Bartimeous, Elyra and Areldor.

However, Willem and Vincent are occupying spaces side by side 5 feet ahead of everyone else in the line on the east; while Mylos is directly behind Bartimeous occupying a 5 foot space.

My Apologies, as there is No Map for Viewing!

Hit Points
Amur 'Nimblefingers' of the Red Buttons [Half Elf of Elf Lineage/Rogue] 9/9
Tohmas Goodwood [Human/Druid] 9/9
Willem Bariendul [Human/Fighter] 12/12
Maithias Crowmarhte aka Crow [Elf/Ranger] 12/12
Vincent Wysman [Human/Knight] 13/13
Bartimeous Dathier [Human/Cleric] 11/11
Mylos Goldspinner [Gnome/Bard] 10/10
Jaufre Vanvoie [Human/Paladin] 12/12
Elyra Nightshade [Elf/Bard] 11/11
Areldor Glanolwath [Half Elf of Human Lineage/Illusionist] 7/7

Armor Hit Points
Amur 'Nimblefingers' of the Red Buttons [Half Elf of Elf Lineage/Rogue] 20/20
Tohmas Goodwood [Human/Druid] 20/20
Willem Bariendul [Human/Fighter] 30/30
Maithias Crowmarhte aka Crow [Elf/Ranger] 30/30
Vincent Wysman [Human/Knight] 20/20
Bartimeous Dathier [Human/Cleric] 30/30
Mylos Goldspinner [Gnome/Bard] 30/30
Jaufre Vanvoie [Human/Paladin] 20/20
Elyra Nightshade [Elf/Bard] 30/30
Areldor Glanolwath [Half Elf of Human Lineage/Illusionist] None/None

Elyra saw the oncoming skeletons and also the large gaps between the seekers. If they stayed in their current spots almost all of them would end up surrounded. "Everyone, close together here at this ruined wall! If we form a semi-circle we can at least not worry about them getting behind us." She turned and moved the few feet to the wall fragment. Then once more she broke into song.

"Waves of bones with arms of rust,
Waves of bones to kill the just.
Stand your ground and be ye brave
Tis your friends you save from the grave"

Bones are rattling as bones must
Send them back to join the dust

Heros rise and heros fall, today we are heros all.
When this eve we light our fire, none shall lay upon a pyre.
Stand with me, we shall not falter,
Tomorrow lay tribute on the alter.

Bones are rattling as bones must
Send them back to join the dust"

Amur stood atop a pile of rubble; he saw the skeletons advancing rapidly across the rubble with little difficulty. It puzzled him that they, just bags of bones, could move so normally across the rough strewn rubble. He had never seen such creatures before but they appeared to have superior dexterity to move so and not stumble over this hazardous ground.

He looked around and saw most of his companions were moving back and he started to follow but then seen that Crow was still standing there near him. He didn’t know the Ranger well, but he wouldn’t abandon him to stand there alone among the advancing skeleton pirates.

Pirates? Seemed an unusual thing. But he had never really been outside the city much since his adventurous days had begun so what did he know.

Amur heard someone behind them mention the eye patches they had been given, something about ‘Safe Passage’. He reached down with his left hand and found his still hanging about his neck where he had slipped it after trying it on. He thought maybe there was something to it so he deftly slipped the patch back into place over his left eye.

A sling bullet was loaded into his sling, he whirled it and as the skeletons came into range he let loose with the bullet targeting the closest enemy. He followed with more bullets as fast as he could, aiming at one skeleton at a time or the closest as he could. He also kept an eye on Crow, he didn’t want to lose his companion here. If Crow moved back he would follow and would continue to support him in any way he could. He also tried to stay out of reach of the skeleton pirates; he was pretty sure if he was surrounded it would be the end of him.

(OOC: Stated intentions can be found in the Q&A as instructed)

Areldor listened and looked as the Seekers tried to formulate a plan against the undead foe. It seemed to him that everyone had some idea what to do and he none. Knowing that he was without armor and that his spells were useless, he had to fall back on the weapons training. Holding his black ash club as Garlin instructed, he steadies his nerves and prepared for what was to come. “Goddess Minerva, grant us understanding in how we are to face our foe. “ Areldor said aloud hoping that the goddess heard and would assist him and his companions.

The pirates moved closer and Areldor could hear Willem and Vincent moving toward the ones from the east as he and Jaufre, Elyra, Mylos and Bartimeous faced the southern and western foes. Someone cried out put on the eye patches. “Eye patches!” was the illusionist thought “Where is that eye patch!” He remembers it was in his bag and he quickly shoved his right hand into his bag and with a shock to his hand it was not found only his spell book. Panic was about to overcome him, then he glanced over to Elyra and remembered just before the alarm of the pirates he and the bard were have a pleasant but silly conversation, then his hand reached up to his forehead and he felt the eye patch. “Safe passage” was the words the Captain used when they were handed out. The words gave the illusionist peace, and a new confidence. Areldor whispered “Thank you Goddess Minerva” believing that his prayer was answered he prepared himself to be ready for what was to unfold.

Well this is not good thought Crow as he first saw the horde of Undead headed the groups way. Of all the things to face Undead were more of a problem then most. With only swords to fight with, the sharp edges not made for destroying Undead, his ability at doing damage to them would be reduced.

Thinking quickly he drew both his longsword ‘Twinkle Twinkle’ and his shortsword ‘Little Star’ and reversed them in his gloved hands intending to use the pommels as blunt weapons. Moving quickly he yelled to Amur to follow him as he attempted to rejoin with the rest of the party in their charge to the East.

The arrows fight was not as smooth as Tohmas would have liked but it hit home. The skeleton rocked as the arrow pierced its skull, but it didn’t fall. The Shaman thought his arrow would do more.

Edited to stay helping Vince and Will:
Then five of the ten east skeletons start to wander away and Tohmas glanced back to the 15 skeletons closeing on his friend Crow and saw Crow come to their aid. The odds will grown better for Willem and Vincent , the two of them could handle the five of the skeletons. Knowing that his arrow had not the effect he had wish he put the bow away and drew his staff to fend off the skeleton to the northeast side. He wished the party had passed safe….. passed safe… safe passage….as a bards song rang out he saw Elyra, she still had her eye patch on… safe passage…….then he heard Mylos shout out to use the eye patch. Thinking it is a sign they think the same, Tohmas draws the patch over his eye. As he approaches the line of skeletons to the east he utter the words to ask Altira to bless his quarterstaff and add two his charisma skills to the staff.

Treasure Seekers
Cast & Characters
Amur 'Nimblefingers' of the Red Buttons [played by Archangel] a level 1 (Half Elf of Elf Lineage) Rogue worships Hermes Tohmas Goodwood [played by Odyson] a level 1 (Human) Druid worships Atira Willem Bariendul [played by Jozan1] a level 1 (Human) Fighter worships Baldur Maithias Crowmarhte aka Crow [played by Tann'Talas] a level 1 (Elf) Ranger worships Betula Vincent Wysman [played by Kamina] a level 1 (Human) Knight worships Mars Bartimeous Dathier [played by Salvator Navaar] a level 1 (Human) Cleric worships Toft Mylos Goldspinner [played by Brundel] a level 1 (Gnome) Bard worships Amber O' The High Woods Jaufre Vanvoie [played by Tuned_Out] a level 1 (Human) Paladin worships Cedrus Elyra Nightshade [played by Angelic] a level 1 (Elf) Bard worships Brigit Areldor Glanolwath [played by Ziklag] a level 1 (Half Elf of Human Lineage) Illusionist worships Minerva
Combat Turn 1 Round 1
"Waves of bones with arms of rust,
Waves of bones to kill the just.
Stand your ground and be ye brave
Tis your friends you save from the grave"

Bones are rattling as bones must
Send them back to join the dust

Heros rise and heros fall, today we are heros all.
When this eve we light our fire, none shall lay upon a pyre.
Stand with me, we shall not falter,
Tomorrow lay tribute on the alter.

Bones are rattling as bones must
Send them back to join the dust"
Although somewhat demoralized that he had failed to turn any of the undead from the south, Jaufre took renewed courage as the inspired words from the lady Bard compelled him to move 15 feet forward, positioning himself between the last Skeleton Pirate on the east (14) and the last one on the end of the southern advance (10, diagonally next to 9).

Positioning himself with his medium wooden shield to guard against an attack from the southern line, he raised his left arm, holding his short sword high in the air, before bringing it down upon the left shoulder near the neck of the undead skeleton at the end of the eastern line.

His foe wobbled momentarily, before crumpling into a pile of dust and bone splinters, no longer animated by some dark magic.

Elated by his momentary triumph, the Paladin whirled and took a swing at the skeleton advancing from the end of the southern line, but for whatever reason, be it the zealousness or hurried swing of inexperience, his blade missed wide of its intended target.

Mylos the Gnome Bard gave out a shout to put on the Eye Patches, after he had put away his Light Cross Bow and drawn his two Daggers!

The arrows fight was not as smooth as Tohmas would have liked but it hit home. The skeleton rocked as the arrow pierced its skull, but it didn’t fall. The Shaman thought his arrow would do more.

Knowing that his arrow had not the effect he had wish he put the bow away and drew his staff to fend off the skeleton to the northeast side. He wished the party had passed safe….. passed safe… safe passage….as a bards song rang out he saw Elyra, she still had her eye patch on… safe passage…….then he heard Mylos shout out to use the eye patch. Thinking it is a sign they think the same, Tohmas draws the patch over his eye. As he approaches the line of skeletons to the east he utter the words to ask Altira to bless his quarterstaff and add two his charisma skills to the staff.
Tohmas took heed to the Gnome Bard's words, as he made a beeline to the northeasterly positioning that placed him in front of the third skeleton on the eastern line.

In his inexperienced haste, the Shaman made a clumsy fumbled swing with his quarterstaff that opened a small bleeder on his shin (-2 HP) that must have spoiled his concentration for a second attempt that did not come close to his quarry!

Well this is not good thought Crow as he first saw the horde of Undead headed the groups way. Of all the things to face Undead were more of a problem then most. With only swords to fight with, the sharp edges not made for destroying Undead, his ability at doing damage to them would be reduced.

Thinking quickly he drew both his longsword ‘Twinkle Twinkle’ and his shortsword ‘Little Star’ and reversed them in his gloved hands intending to use the pommels as blunt weapons. Moving quickly he yelled to Amur to follow him as he attempted to rejoin with the rest of the party in their charge to the East.
Crow covered a space of 30 feet as quickly as he could, almost slipping a time or two, but he managed to take up a position to the north, diagonally next to his friend Tohmas, with 5 feet of space between the Elf Ranger and the second skeleton on the eastern line.

Amur took heed to follow Crow, positioning himself next to Crow, right behind Tohmas, as he began flinging sling stones!

His first stone sailed harmlessly over the head of the skeleton facing Tohmas; the second hit the same skeleton in the skull; the third split its skull into a pile of dust and bone splinters, unable to rise again; while the fourth stone hit the second skeleton, causing it to wobble back and forth.

Bartimeous boldy and arrogantly marched ten feet forward, but his inexperience would have narrowly missed his foe, had it not been for his blessed War Hammer from his dwarven deity Toft, who must have been smiling with favor upon the Human Cleric this day, because his seemingly anemic swing resulted in the skeleton (E10) disintegrating into dust and bone splinters!

Willem moved 5 feet northeasterly and took a mighty two-handed swing with his Broadsword at a menacing skeleton (E7) with all the inexperienced enthusiasm he could muster, but he missed by several inches.

Undaunted, the Fighter took another mighty swing, but made an inexperienced clumsy fumbly swing, that fortunately did not injure himself, or anyone else!

Taking another slice with his Broadsword, the Fighter finally managed to connect with his specialized weapon, barely obliterating his foe!

Then with one final spinning swing of his mighty Broadsword, the Fighter failed to hit the adjacent skeleton (E6).

Vincent had closely followed the lead of his new found friend Willem, matching him almost stride for stride, as he boldly moved alongside his friend to confront the skeleton (E with his Short Sword.

Mars must have taken delight in the inexperienced enthusiasm of his devoted Knight, as the Short Sword slashed through the ribcage of his undead foe, reducing his target to a pile of dust and bone splinters that were unable to stalk any more living beings!

Triumphantly swinging his Short Sword at his adjacent foe (E9), the blade succeeded in eliminating its second target in like manner!

Ready to swing his weapon again and again, the Knight had no more nearby foes to face!

Areldor listened and looked as the Seekers tried to formulate a plan against the undead foe. It seemed to him that everyone had some idea what to do and he none. Knowing that he was without armor and that his spells were useless, he had to fall back on the weapons training. Holding his black ash club as Garlin instructed, he steadies his nerves and prepared for what was to come. “Goddess Minerva, grant us understanding in how we are to face our foe. “ Areldor said aloud hoping that the goddess heard and would assist him and his companions.

Someone cried out put on the eye patches. “Eye patches!” was the illusionist thought “Where is that eye patch!” He remembers it was in his bag and he quickly shoved his right hand into his bag and with a shock to his hand it was not found only his spell book. Panic was about to overcome him, then he glanced over to Elyra and remembered just before the alarm of the pirates he and the bard were have a pleasant but silly conversation, then his hand reached up to his forehead and he felt the eye patch. “Safe passage” was the words the Captain used when they were handed out. The words gave the illusionist peace, and a new confidence. Areldor whispered “Thank you Goddess Minerva” believing that his prayer was answered he prepared himself to be ready for what was to unfold.
Minerva must have somehow possessed, or at least motivated Areldor to boldly move 15 feet to confront the skeletons from the south, as he had seen Jaufre seeming fearlessly do!

He swung his Club with all the might and courage that he could muster, but the Illusionist seemed to be a mere illusion himself, as his weapon harmlessly swept past his foe (S.

But as his Club turned him around in a circle, it connected with the chest of the skeleton, reducing it to a pile of dust and bone splinters!

Then his momentum caused the inexperienced Illusionist to miss the adjacent skeleton (S9), but the determined Half Elf somehow guided his Club, perhaps with the aid of his deity Minerva, into the ribcage of the same skeleton (S9), also reducing it to a pile of dust and harmless bone splinters!

Elyra took off after Areldor, covering 20 feet with ease, as she brandished her twin Short Swords, positioning herself with a 5 foot space between the lady Bard and the Illusionist, to help stem the tide against the southern Skeleton Pirates!

She swung and missed with her primary left handed short sword, but as she turned she caught the skeleton (S6) on the left leg with her other sword, but it only shuddered a bit.

However, her next primary swing caused the skeleton to crumple in a pile of dust and bone splinters, while her second off handed swing reduced the adjacent skeleton (S7) nearest Areldor to suffer the same fate, unable to cause any more harm to a living being.

Mylos being a Gnome, was only able to move 20 feet, positioning himself just out of reach of being able to use his Daggers against the southern line of skeletons.

Note from the Castle Keeper:

Seekers have the first Initiative for the second round of combat against the Skeleton Pirates!

Hit Points
Amur 'Nimblefingers' of the Red Buttons [Half Elf of Elf Lineage/Rogue] 9/9
Tohmas Goodwood [Human/Druid] 7/9
Willem Bariendul [Human/Fighter] 12/12
Maithias Crowmarhte aka Crow [Elf/Ranger] 12/12
Vincent Wysman [Human/Knight] 13/13
Bartimeous Dathier [Human/Cleric] 11/11
Mylos Goldspinner [Gnome/Bard] 10/10
Jaufre Vanvoie [Human/Paladin] 12/12
Elyra Nightshade [Elf/Bard] 11/11
Areldor Glanolwath [Half Elf of Human Lineage/Illusionist] 7/7

Armor Hit Points
Amur 'Nimblefingers' of the Red Buttons [Half Elf of Elf Lineage/Rogue] 20/20
Tohmas Goodwood [Human/Druid] 20/20
Willem Bariendul [Human/Fighter] 30/30
Maithias Crowmarhte aka Crow [Elf/Ranger] 30/30
Vincent Wysman [Human/Knight] 20/20
Bartimeous Dathier [Human/Cleric] 30/30
Mylos Goldspinner [Gnome/Bard] 30/30
Jaufre Vanvoie [Human/Paladin] 20/20
Elyra Nightshade [Elf/Bard] 30/30
Areldor Glanolwath [Half Elf of Human Lineage/Illusionist] None/None

Missile Arsenal
Amur 'Nimblefingers' of the Red Buttons [Half Elf of Elf Lineage/Rogue] 16/20 Sling Stones
Tohmas Goodwood [Human/Druid] 19/20 Arrows
Maithias Crowmarhte aka Crow [Elf/Ranger] 20/20 Arrows
Mylos Goldspinner [Gnome/Bard] 23/24 Bolts
Elyra Nightshade [Elf/Bard] 40/40 Arrows

Mylos closed the gap against his targeted skeleton (S4) with his double Daggers ready to test their blades against bones!

His primary right handed weapon found its mark as it slashed above the left knee cap, staggering the Skeleton Pirate, before his off handed slash above the right knee cap reduced the undead to a pile of dust and bone splinters!

Elated, the Gnome Bard targeted the adjacent skeleton (S3) and was thrilled as the luck of Amber his deity was shining favorably upon him, as the skeleton suffered a vicious slash below its right knee that left it a pile of dust and bone splinters, unable to harm another living being!

However, in his excitement, the inexperienced Gnome missed wide with his off handed swipe at the other adjacent skeleton (S5).

Jaufre was thankful that some of his comrades had joined the attack against the skeleton invasion from the south, as he swung his short sword at the skeleton (S10) that was eerily leering at the Paladin.

Fearlessly leaping forward as his blade reduced his foe to a pile of dust and bone splinters, the Paladin held his wooden shield high, as he swung his weapon a second time, splitting the skull of the targeted skeleton (S20) with a critical hit, as it burst into a pile of dust and bone splinters!

Areldor was too busy focusing on his next target to realize how the others were faring, as he stepped forward and swung his Club at another skeleton (S1 that was immediately pulverized into a pile of dust and bone splinters!

The enthusiastic Illusionist swung his Club towards the skeleton (S19) closest to Jaufre, but missed way wide, the momentum of his intended blow causing him to turn a full circle that must have caused Minerva to smile, as his Club crushed its ribcage, reducing it to a pile of dust and bone splinters!

With a grunt of triumph, the Illusionist managed to flow with the momentum of the Club, somehow by the aid of Minerva no doubt, guiding it to smash the chest of the other adjacent skeleton (S17) as it evaporated in a cloud of dust and bone splinters!

Elyra stepped forward to continue her dance with her twin blades, slashing at the frontline skeleton (S5) diagonal to Mylos, her primary blade leaving its tell tale mark across its right ribcage!

Her off hand slash was much more vicious, connecting with its back, as it disintegrated into a pile of dust and bone splinters!

She continued her deadly 'Dagger Dance' with her twin Short Sword blades, as her primary weapon slashed across the jaw of the nearest back row skeleton (S16), causing it to wobble precariously; while her weak, but effective, off handed slash made just enough contact with its neck to reduce the undead foe to a pile of dust and bone splinters, unable to rise again to harm any living being!

Meanwhile, further north, the self bloodied Tohmas took another determined swing with his blessed quarterstaff against the slightly damaged skeleton (E4); however, the Shaman seemed to be worse than a rookie fighter, as the staff slipped, hitting him on the forearm, causing his strength to slip away in small droplets of blood (-1HP).

Although the Shaman was staggering a bit from his own self inflicted wounds, he did somehow manage to swing his blessed quarterstaff in a weakly executed move, catching his foe under the left armpit, resulting in a pile of dust and bone splinters, courtesy of Atira blessing his weapon with greater power to dispatch his undead foe!

Crow moved himself into position to protect his stricken friend, savagely bludgeoning the nearest skeleton (E2) into a pile of dust and bone splinters with the hilt of his Long Sword 'Twinkle Twinkle'; while his attempt against the adjacent skeleton (E1) with his Short Sword 'Little Star' was unsuccessful by a wide margin.

Undaunted, the Elf Ranger drove the hilt of 'Twinkle Twinkle' into the forehead of the menacing skeleton, which burst into a pile of dust and bone splinters, like so many of its now fallen brethren!

Amur decided to take aim against the lone skeleton (E6) southeast of his position, connecting with his first shot that made the lone foe wobble precariously, before his second shot reduced the skeleton to a pile of dust and bone splinters!

Quickly the Rogue tried to launch his third stone against the advancing line of Skeleton Pirates approaching from the west, but his stone fell far short of its intended target (W3); however, he slang a fourth stone that fell even much shorter!

Almost infuriated that he no longer had any nearby targets to demolish, Bartimeous moved 10 feet to the west, pausing to focus his anger, while waiting for the approaching Skeleton Pirates to draw within striking distance!

Willem decided to employ the same tactic, while Vincent followed suit at his side, each moving 10 feet west, waiting for the Skeleton Pirates to get close enough to battle!

West Skeleton Pirates marched straight ahead another 30 feet, except for the (W14) that stopped behind Mylos and the (W15) that stopped next to the Gnome Bard's side!

South Skeleton Pirates (S2) marched 10 feet to the east, stopping in front of Mylos, while (S1) followed behind, stopping within striking distance of the Gnome Bard.

(S15) marched 25 feet east to stand in front of Jaufre; (S14) also marched 25 feet east to be in striking distance of both Jaufre and Areldor; (S13) marched 25 feet east to stand in front of Areldor; (S12) marched 25 feet east to be in striking distance of both Areldor and Elyra; while (S11) marched 25 feet east to stand in front of Elyra.

As the Skeleton Pirates raised their cutlasses to simultaneously attack Mylos, Elyra, Areldor and Jaufre; a spark of recognition seemed to register somewhere within the undead foes!

Fortunately for Areldor, Elyra and Mylos; the decision to wear their Eye Patches had proven to be a wise choice, for as the skeletons raised their cutlasses to strike their intended targets, the 'sight' of the Toothless Dragon insignia gave them pause, for they were unable to strike with their weapons!

On the other hand, Jaufre was not wearing his Eye Patch, making him a living target as the cutlasses from (S15) and (S14) sought to bleed his living flesh this day!

Jaufre felt the impact of the blade from (S15) slashing into his Leather Armor, feeling the pain of the blow weakening his stamina! [-3 Hit Points & -2 Armor Hit Points]

Fortunately for the Paladin of Cedrus, although the blade from (S14) also found its mark against his chest, the force of the slash was too weak to penetrate his leather armor! [-0 Hit Points & -1 Armor Hit Points]

Note from the Castle Keeper:

Skeletons have the first Initiative for the third round of combat against the Seekers!

Hit Points
Amur 'Nimblefingers' of the Red Buttons [Half Elf of Elf Lineage/Rogue] 9/9
Tohmas Goodwood [Human/Druid] 6/9
Willem Bariendul [Human/Fighter] 12/12
Maithias Crowmarhte aka Crow [Elf/Ranger] 12/12
Vincent Wysman [Human/Knight] 13/13
Bartimeous Dathier [Human/Cleric] 11/11
Mylos Goldspinner [Gnome/Bard] 10/10
Jaufre Vanvoie [Human/Paladin] 9/12
Elyra Nightshade [Elf/Bard] 11/11
Areldor Glanolwath [Half Elf of Human Lineage/Illusionist] 7/7

Armor Hit Points
Amur 'Nimblefingers' of the Red Buttons [Half Elf of Elf Lineage/Rogue] 20/20
Tohmas Goodwood [Human/Druid] 20/20
Willem Bariendul [Human/Fighter] 30/30
Maithias Crowmarhte aka Crow [Elf/Ranger] 30/30
Vincent Wysman [Human/Knight] 20/20
Bartimeous Dathier [Human/Cleric] 30/30
Mylos Goldspinner [Gnome/Bard] 30/30
Jaufre Vanvoie [Human/Paladin] 17/20
Elyra Nightshade [Elf/Bard] 30/30
Areldor Glanolwath [Half Elf of Human Lineage/Illusionist] None/None

Missile Arsenal
Amur 'Nimblefingers' of the Red Buttons [Half Elf of Elf Lineage/Rogue] 12/20 Sling Stones
Tohmas Goodwood [Human/Druid] 19/20 Arrows
Maithias Crowmarhte aka Crow [Elf/Ranger] 20/20 Arrows
Mylos Goldspinner [Gnome/Bard] 23/24 Bolts
Elyra Nightshade [Elf/Bard] 40/40 Arrows

Skeleton Pirates from the West continued their march towards the Seekers until each was confronted with one or more opponents, swinging their cutlasses to claim their lives!

(W1) and (W2) attacked Crow from his right side and face-to-face respectively! Fortunately for the Ranger, each blade narrowly missed him!

Amur was surprised that the skeleton (W3) facing him failed to bring its cutlass to bear upon his exposed body! Could that have been a glint of recognition somewhere within that gruesome skull glaring at him? Perhaps the Eye Patch would provide 'Safe Passage!'

Fortunately for the self wounded Shaman Tohmas the skeletons (W4) and (W5) that had positioned themselves between the Rogue and himself, plus next to his left side respectively, also seemed to be enthralled by his Toothless Dragon Eye Patch, unable to bring their cutlasses to bear against the Shaman!

(W6) and (W7) were now confronting Willem on his right side and face-to-face, menacing him with their cutlasses, as they attempted to slay him!

The blade from (W6) whistled through the air, a few inches from his chest, but the blade from (W7) bit into his studded leather armor, without damaging his upper torso! [-0 Hit Points & -1 Armor Hit Points]

Vincent the Novice Knight was not so fortunate, as the blade from (W bit into his leather armor, the skeleton seemingly grinning at him eye-to-eye, as the cutlass made its impression in his upper body! [-3 Hit Points & -2 Armor Hit Points]

However, it was a clean miss from the blade of (W9) that chose to target his left shoulder, rather than the right shoulder of the Cleric to its immedate right.

Bartimeous still had to face 3 attacking skeletons, as (W10) that was facing him almost nose-to-nose swung way wide; followed by (W11) facing his left shoulder from a diagonal position, swung a bit short of its intended target; followed by (W12) on his left side that raised its cutlass to strike the Cleric, but made a clumsy, fumbling attempt to slash him with its blade, but seemed unable to hold its weapon aloft, as gravity pulled his sword arm back down to its side!

(W13) split off on its own, drawn to the wounded Paladin Jaufre, seeking to strike him on his right shoulder, from a diagonal position!

Cedrus had shown mercy this day, as the blade failed to come even close to the Paladin!

Meanwhile, the skeletons (W14) and (W15) still were unable to bring their arms to bear against the Gnome Bard Mylos, nor did they attempt to move away from him!

The same held true for (S1) and (S2) that could not attack the Gnome Bard; as was the case with (S11) and (S12) menacing Elyra; along with (S13) standing in front of Areldor, unable to strike the seemingly vulnerable Illusionist with its upraised cutlass!

(S14) and (S15) had no such restraint against the Paladin Jaufre, as they swung their deadly cutlasses, (S14) cleaving only air with its blade!

The Paladin winced with pain as the familiar bite of the cutlass blade brandished by (S15) bit its way through his leather armor, drawing blood once again! [-3 Hit Points & -2 Armor Hit Points]

Jaufre winced with pain as he instinctively struck back with his Short Sword in response to his tormenter!

His first swing proved more than the skeleton could bear, as it disintegrated into a pile of dust and bone splinters, unable to bleed the Paladin ever again!

Without a pause, he swung his blade in a circular arc towards (S14), connecting with a vicious slash, causing the skeleton to wobble and bend its knees, but it refused to yield to the blow of the blade!

Areldor swung his Club again, nearly drunk with the thrill of battle, as he brought it to bear against the skeleton (W13) that had joined the battle against the beleaguered Paladin!

His Club bashed through its target like a bull in a china shop, as his foe dissipated into a cloud of dust and tiny pile of bone splinters!

His momentum spun him towards the last immediate threat to the Paladin, obliterating the skeleton with a blow to its ribcage, resulting in another cloud of dust and even tinier pile of bone splinters!

Then the Illusionist swung his Club towards his own immediate threat (S13) that still was unable to attack him, nor did it seem to try to avoid the oncoming blow!

Nor did it have to, because the Club missed its mark by a wide margin, before missing again by a somewhat narrower margin!

Elyra gripped her twin Short Sword blades with renewed vigor, slicing at (S12) and missing wide with her primary hand, but managing to weakly connect against a left leg bone with her off handed swipe!

Undaunted, she lashed out again with her provocative 'Dagger Dance', narrowly missing with her primary hand weapon and again missing by a slightly larger margin with her off hand blade!

Mylos meanwhile, had his own Gnome variation of a Dagger Dance with his Twin Daggers!

He did not appreciate being crowded in by hostile skeletons, even if his Eye Patch seemed to be holding them at bay!

So the Gnome Bard chose to clear a path of retreat for himself, in case the unnatural effect somehow wore off, as suddenly as it had taken effect on the advancing skeletons!

His first right handed swipe at the previously wounded skeleton (W14) directly behind him went way wide of its mark, while his off hand swipe was even more off target, but as he swung around for a more determined sweep, the Gnome was rewarded with a positive slice of the kneecaps, resulting in the now customary cloud of dust, followed by a tiny pile of bone splinters!

Almost as an afterthought, he swept his final off hand slice towards the shin of the skeleton (W15) that threatened his right side, also leaving this previously wounded foe a mere small cloud of dust and tiny pile of bone splinters, no longer a threat to any living being!

Bartimeous met his foe (W10) head on, swinging his blessed War Hammer at its ribcage, but missing his target by several inches!

Vincent made a quick decision to make some room for the Cleric to have more space to maneuver against their foes, taking his first swing against the skeleton (W9) that stood between the two Seekers!

Mars must have guided his sword arm, as the blade splintered the skull, before his foe disappeared in a cloud of dust and tiny fragments of bone splinters!

Then he swung his blade at the skeleton (W directly in front of him, slicing it across the front of its ribcage, with the same result of dust and bone splinters!

Swinging his blade towards the skeleton (W7) that was confronting his new found friend Willem, the Knight missed by several inches, before dispatching the undead with a slice to its neck, producing another cloud of dust and tiny pile of bone splinters!

That left Willem only the skeleton (W6) to his immediate right. The first sweep of his Broadsword severed the head from the body, before the skeleton evaporated in a cloud of dust and tiny pile of bone splinters!

He followed through with his swing, but there were no more Skeleton Pirates within reach of his blade!

Tohmas must have been hurting more than he realized, or perhaps he was just subconsciously leery of wounding himself again with his own weapon? Whatever the case, the Shaman barely missed the skeleton (W4) that was next to Amur, while his second swing missed by a greater margin!

Amur was persistently continuing his attack with his Sling Stones, as he hurled one directly in front of him at close range against the skeleton (W3) that stood almost motionless before him!

The stone bounced off its skull, but did not fall, so Amur slang a second stone, hitting its mark in almost the same place, but still the skeleton stood defiantly!

The third stone obliterated the skeleton in a cloud of dust and tiny pile of bone splinters, no longer standing defiantly against the Rogue!

In another swift motion, he slang a fourth stone against the skeleton (W4) that the Shaman had tried to eliminate without success, bouncing it off its skull, merely causing the skeleton to sway unsteadily!

Crow drove the pommel of 'Twinkle Twinkle' into the chest of the skeleton (W2) that seemed to snarl at the Ranger, before it burst into a cloud of dust and tiny pile of bone splinters!

Then he swung the pommel of 'Little Star' into the ribcage of the skeleton (W1) that had threatened him on his right side, satisfied that it too disappeared before his eyes in a cloud of dust and tiny pile of bone splinters, unable to rise again!

Note from the Castle Keeper:

Seekers have the first Initiative for the fourth round of combat against the Skeletons!

Hit Points
Amur 'Nimblefingers' of the Red Buttons [Half Elf of Elf Lineage/Rogue] 9/9
Tohmas Goodwood [Human/Druid] 6/9
Willem Bariendul [Human/Fighter] 12/12
Maithias Crowmarhte aka Crow [Elf/Ranger] 12/12
Vincent Wysman [Human/Knight] 10/13
Bartimeous Dathier [Human/Cleric] 11/11
Mylos Goldspinner [Gnome/Bard] 10/10
Jaufre Vanvoie [Human/Paladin] 6/12
Elyra Nightshade [Elf/Bard] 11/11
Areldor Glanolwath [Half Elf of Human Lineage/Illusionist] 7/7

Armor Hit Points
Amur 'Nimblefingers' of the Red Buttons [Half Elf of Elf Lineage/Rogue] 20/20
Tohmas Goodwood [Human/Druid] 20/20
Willem Bariendul [Human/Fighter] 29/30
Maithias Crowmarhte aka Crow [Elf/Ranger] 30/30
Vincent Wysman [Human/Knight] 18/20
Bartimeous Dathier [Human/Cleric] 30/30
Mylos Goldspinner [Gnome/Bard] 30/30
Jaufre Vanvoie [Human/Paladin] 15/20
Elyra Nightshade [Elf/Bard] 30/30
Areldor Glanolwath [Half Elf of Human Lineage/Illusionist] None/None

Missile Arsenal
Amur 'Nimblefingers' of the Red Buttons [Half Elf of Elf Lineage/Rogue] 8/20 Sling Stones
Tohmas Goodwood [Human/Druid] 19/20 Arrows
Maithias Crowmarhte aka Crow [Elf/Ranger] 20/20 Arrows
Mylos Goldspinner [Gnome/Bard] 23/24 Bolts
Elyra Nightshade [Elf/Bard] 40/40 Arrows

Bartimeous stubbornly refused to give up trying to eliminate the skeleton (W10) that had remained unscathed thus far!

His renewed effort was rewarded, as his blessed War Hammer crushed the ribs of his foe, bursting into a cloud of dust and a tiny pile of bone splinters, unable to arise again!

Tohmas was another Seeker who was not about to allow his misfortunes dictate his future successes!

His renewed determination was unshakeable, even when the first swipe of his quarterstaff failed to come close to the skeleton (W5) that was at his left side!

However, his second attempt unleashed all of his pent up frustration, totally obliterating his foe, as his blessed weapon connected with its ribcage, reducing it to a tiny pile of bone slivers amid a cloud of dust, ensuring that the undead would not rise again!

Crow moved himself into position behind the remaining previously wounded skeleton (W4) that was a threat to the Shaman, if the Toothless Dragon Eye Patch somehow lost its enthrallment over their undead foe.

The Elf Ranger once again drove the pommel of 'Twinkle Twinkle' to strike the back of its head, which only took a moment for the undead to collapse in a cloud of dust and tiny bone fragment splinters!

Further south, Willem was once again on the move, positioning himself directly behind skeleton (W11) and diagonal striking distance to the other skeleton (W12) that still posed a threat to the living, especially the Cleric!

Bringing his Broadsword in a sweeping arc intended to slash the undead (W11) where its neck met its right shoulder, the mighty blow sliced through the undead like passing through hot butter, followed by the now familiar cloud of dust and tiny pile of bone splinters!

The brawny Fighter turned in one fluid motion, sweeping his weapon sideways to make contact with the ribcage of the remaining foe, but he momentarily lost his footing on the rubble, causing his blade to pass harmlessly through the air!

But it was only a momentary slip, that did not hinder another sweeping blow, that came within a hair of slicing its intended target, but he once again momentarily lost his balance, as his final swing failed to come close to connecting with bone!

Vincent had followed the strategy of the Fighter, moving behind the Cleric to protect his back, positioning himself in a diagonal vantage point to attack without mercy!

Once again Mars shown favorably upon the young Knight, as his Short Sword separated the head of the undead (W12) from its body, followed by the now customary cloud of dust and tiny pile of bone fragments, splinters that would not rise to threaten any more living beings!

Mylos chose not to retreat, but rather pressed his advantage against his remaining two foes (S1) and (S2); continuing his 'Dagger Dance' he made a clumsy fumble move that slashed into his Studded Leather Armor under his left arm! [-3 Hit Points & -3 Armor Hit Points]

In the same moment, his off handed Dagger missed (S1) by mere inches, but the Gnome continued his now painful dance, but this time his primary weapon found its mark below the left knee, staggering his undead foe!

He completed his dance as his off hand weapon sliced into the bone of its right shin, followed by the cloud of dust and tiny bone fragment splinters, marking the passing of yet another undead foe!

Jaufre was not a Paladin content to allow others to take risks, even with his own wounds slowing him down!

He moved a few feet to engage the skeleton (S13) that Areldor still had not eliminated with his Club!

The Paladin swung his Short Sword with as much strength as his aching body could muster, but his blade whistled harmlessly through the air, failing to slice into skeleton bone!

But the Paladin of Cedrus somehow tapped into some inner reserve of strength, arcing his blade down across the right shoulder of the undead foe, rewarded by the sound of metal biting into bone, followed by a cloud of dust and a tiny pile of bone fragments, signifying the demise of yet another undead foe!

Hearing the cry of pain from her fellow Bard, who had somehow sliced his armor with his own Dagger, the lady Bard Elyra danced over next to the skeleton (S2) that posed the greatest threat to the Gnome, especially if the effect of the Toothless Dragon Eye Patch had somehow been nullified by the Gnome's wounds!

Swinging her Short Swords, the Elf made a wide arc with her primary blade, that merely whistled in the wind it created, but her off hand swing struck the undead foe hard below its right shoulder, causing it to wobble like a drunk man, yet refusing to lose its undead state of being!

She gracefully spun in a circle, letting her 'Dagger Dance' flow into her twin Short Swords, as she made another arc with her primary blade, missing her undead foe by a wide margin!

Her follow through with her off hand blade failed to connect metal with bone!

It was now up to Areldor to find a way to help put an end to this undead menace of Skeleton Pirates, so he moved over 10 feet to where the lady Bard had previously been in position to confront the skeletons (S11) and (S12), brandishing his Club with renewed vigor!

He first swung his Club at the previously wounded (S12), but missed his target by a wide margin!

Yet the Illusionist seemed to be at one with his Club, following through with an enormous blow to the chest of his undead foe, obliterating the Skeleton Pirate into yet another cloud of dust and tiny pile of splintered bone fragments, unable to harm any living being ever again!

But the Illusionist was not yet finished, as he spun around with his Club, missing his target by the widest of margins, spinning around another time to no avail, missing once again by a wide margin!

Skeleton (S2) stood between a 'rock' and a 'hard place', still unable to raise its weapon against the gaze of the Toothless Dragon Eye Patches worn by Mylos and Elyra!

However, Skeleton (S11), although unable to bear its cutlass against the Toothless Dragon Eye Patch worn by Areldor, it was drawn towards the living essence of the Paladin of Cedrus, Jaufre, who could only watch the slow advance of the undead horror, praying that Cedrus spare his life this day!

He faced his undead foe fearlessly in that moment, watching as its blade arced downward, impacting upon his leather armor that covered his aching chest, biting into his armor!

Cedrus had stood with the Paladin at that moment, for the only damage done by the blade, was another cut in his armor! [-0 Hit Points & -1 Armor Hit Points]

Note from the Castle Keeper:

Seekers have the first Initiative for the fifth round of combat against the Skeletons!

Hit Points
Amur 'Nimblefingers' of the Red Buttons [Half Elf of Elf Lineage/Rogue] 9/9
Tohmas Goodwood [Human/Druid] 6/9
Willem Bariendul [Human/Fighter] 12/12
Maithias Crowmarhte aka Crow [Elf/Ranger] 12/12
Vincent Wysman [Human/Knight] 10/13
Bartimeous Dathier [Human/Cleric] 11/11
Mylos Goldspinner [Gnome/Bard] 7/10
Jaufre Vanvoie [Human/Paladin] 6/12
Elyra Nightshade [Elf/Bard] 11/11
Areldor Glanolwath [Half Elf of Human Lineage/Illusionist] 7/7

Armor Hit Points
Amur 'Nimblefingers' of the Red Buttons [Half Elf of Elf Lineage/Rogue] 20/20
Tohmas Goodwood [Human/Druid] 20/20
Willem Bariendul [Human/Fighter] 29/30
Maithias Crowmarhte aka Crow [Elf/Ranger] 30/30
Vincent Wysman [Human/Knight] 18/20
Bartimeous Dathier [Human/Cleric] 30/30
Mylos Goldspinner [Gnome/Bard] 27/30
Jaufre Vanvoie [Human/Paladin] 14/20
Elyra Nightshade [Elf/Bard] 30/30
Areldor Glanolwath [Half Elf of Human Lineage/Illusionist] None/None

Missile Arsenal
Amur 'Nimblefingers' of the Red Buttons [Half Elf of Elf Lineage/Rogue] 8/20 Sling Stones
Tohmas Goodwood [Human/Druid] 19/20 Arrows
Maithias Crowmarhte aka Crow [Elf/Ranger] 20/20 Arrows
Mylos Goldspinner [Gnome/Bard] 23/24 Bolts
Elyra Nightshade [Elf/Bard] 40/40 Arrows

Jaufre was determined to do his best to eliminate the undead menace (S11) that sought to take his life!

His body hurt as he raised his sword arm, but he focused upon the task at hand, forcing himself to swing as hard as he could, but his blade passed harmlessly before the undead Skeleton Pirate!

He tried once more, but his body and blade were no longer a unified weapon, as the wounded skeleton grinned maniacally at the wounded Paladin, untouched by the second swing of his blade!

Mylos, the now wounded Gnome Bard, summoned up some reserve strength for hopefully, one final 'Dagger Dance', as he slashed with his primary weapon, aiming below the right knee cap of the undead skeleton!

His first attempt missed, even as he followed through with his off hand slice, but it too was a miserable failure!

The Gnome Bard continued his dance, following through once again with his primary weapon, this time dispatching his wounded foe in the now familiar cloud of dust and tiny pile of bone fragments!

The Luck of his deity Amber had seen him through the adversity!

Meanwhile, Areldor the Illusionist did not hesitate to move into position behind the undead skeleton (S11) that was seeking to end the life of the courageous Paladin!

With a prayer to Minerva and a mighty swing of his Club, the Illusionist ended the undead threat in a final cloud of dust and tiny pile of bone fragment splinters!

Having survived their first taste of combat, the Seekers gathered together, bonded by the blood shed and the bones broken this day!

Amur was able to recover only 6 of the 12 Sling Stones, the other half dozen expended missiles lost somewhere in the crevices of the rubble; whereas, both Tohmas and Mylos were able to retrieve their lone Arrow and Bolt, intact enough if they were needed for any future battle.

Tohmas, Vincent, Mylos and especially Jaufre were in need of having their wounds tended to and their health restored to full capacity!

But it was the soothing sound of the 'Happy Water' somewhere not far to the north, that now called for their attention; its musical melody carried on a slight breeze, to the battle weary ears of the Seekers!

Note from the Castle Keeper:

Game Thread Now Open for Role Play!

Hit Points
Amur 'Nimblefingers' of the Red Buttons [Half Elf of Elf Lineage/Rogue] 9/9
Tohmas Goodwood [Human/Druid] 6/9
Willem Bariendul [Human/Fighter] 12/12
Maithias Crowmarhte aka Crow [Elf/Ranger] 12/12
Vincent Wysman [Human/Knight] 10/13
Bartimeous Dathier [Human/Cleric] 11/11
Mylos Goldspinner [Gnome/Bard] 7/10
Jaufre Vanvoie [Human/Paladin] 6/12
Elyra Nightshade [Elf/Bard] 11/11
Areldor Glanolwath [Half Elf of Human Lineage/Illusionist] 7/7

Armor Hit Points
Amur 'Nimblefingers' of the Red Buttons [Half Elf of Elf Lineage/Rogue] 20/20
Tohmas Goodwood [Human/Druid] 20/20
Willem Bariendul [Human/Fighter] 29/30
Maithias Crowmarhte aka Crow [Elf/Ranger] 30/30
Vincent Wysman [Human/Knight] 18/20
Bartimeous Dathier [Human/Cleric] 30/30
Mylos Goldspinner [Gnome/Bard] 27/30
Jaufre Vanvoie [Human/Paladin] 14/20
Elyra Nightshade [Elf/Bard] 30/30
Areldor Glanolwath [Half Elf of Human Lineage/Illusionist] None/None

Missile Arsenal
Amur 'Nimblefingers' of the Red Buttons [Half Elf of Elf Lineage/Rogue] 14/20 Sling Stones
Tohmas Goodwood [Human/Druid] 20/20 Arrows
Maithias Crowmarhte aka Crow [Elf/Ranger] 20/20 Arrows
Mylos Goldspinner [Gnome/Bard] 24/24 Bolts
Elyra Nightshade [Elf/Bard] 40/40 Arrows

Day Six
Saturday
Marrero 13, 101 awd
It took a moment for Jaufre to realize he was no longer under siege; the end of the skeleton pirates occurring as quickly as they had arrived upon the adventurers. At his side stood the illusionist, now covered in bone dust and breathing heavily, and, to Jaufre's relief, without a scratch. Though as much as the paladin had spoken as a lone protectorate against the oncoming horde, he fully realized that he would not be standing here now if not for the quick actions of those who came to his aid against the southern flank.

Rebalancing his weight to relieve some of the pain, Jaufre looked to the man who had his back at more than one point during the fight.

"You have my thanks, friend." Extending his hand to Areldor, Jaufre could not prevent a flash of pain from crossing his face as the cut in his side shifted; something the paladin was quick to try to cover up with a grin. "The battle would surely have been different if not for the aid of such stout-hearted companions."

Surely it would have, and Jaufre would have to remember not to second guess his companions on this journey; the illusionist Areldor and the bard Elyra had clearly proven themselves capable of more than idle banter and entertainment. A quick glimpse about the rubble-battlefield revealed to him that indeed all the treasure seekers still stood, now amidst piles of dust and most in better shape than he; a relief on all accounts.

But despite the momentary relief of a battle ended, and a company intact, Jaufre still felt shaken. When first he called upon Cedrus this day he felt as though his call went unanswered. Though surely as he fought in the name of Cedrus, at the expense of blood, sweat, and fleeting hope, the God had chosen to smile upon him in battle. Still doubts plagued his mind; had he neglected his training-his faith, so much in his pursuit of a cure to his sister's ailment? Or was Guetis right that he lacked in a core sense of hope?

Perhaps events to come could help restore his faith to what it once was, but for now the ache of his fresh wound kept him grounded in the reality that danger lurked about them.

Elyra danced as she had been taught by the elven blade-masters. Her twin short swords seemed almost alive in her hands as she whirled amidst the skeletons. Never stopping, always moving she presented a difficult target and few of her enemies managed to land a blow. Of course her dance was not quite like the blade-masters yet for she missed as often as she connected but in time her skill would increase. As the last of the skeletons dropped to the ground, she sheathed her swords and looked to the other seekers. She was elated to see that all of them still stood though the paladin seemed just a bit wobbly and blood covered his body. Since skeletons do not bleed there was no doubt as to the source of the blood. She was about to move to check on him when she heard a strange sound. Almost musical in nature, it came from the waters to the north.
“Is everyone alright?” She called out. “If so we should investigate the waters. There must be something important there to have such a guard.” After a moment’s pause she added, “And then we should think about heading back to get our wounds tended and report to the Captain.”

Vincent stood near Willem and the Cleric stunned. His first bout of combat now over, he looked down to his chest and realized the wound.

"Damn it." He hissed, touching the wound gingerly with his fingers. Looking at the blood on his fingers he sheathed his sword and sat on a pile of rubble. "Hey Willem! We did good eh? Haha, pretty exhilirating I'd say."

Doubling over, Vincent grunted as he accidentally brushed his wound. Wincing as he spoke, "Bartimeous, could you heal me up please? This is quite bothersome haha."

Amur turned and looked around and saw the last skeleton pirate fall; he sighed and let the adrenaline rush fade causing him to shutter slightly. He closed his eyes for a moment and took a couple of deep breaths to calm himself. He reached up and grasped one of the dark red buttons sown onto his armor front and gave a silent thanks to Hermes for the luck which has gotten him through this battle.

Opening his eyes, he did a quick scan of his companions and saw they were all still standing, though some of them showed wounds from the recent conflict. He immediate turned to searching for and surprisingly found some of the stones he had used; with the rough strewn, crack filled terrain he was surprised to find as many as he did.

“Is everyone alright?” Elyra the Bard called out. “If so we should investigate the waters. There must be something important there to have such a guard.” After a moment’s pause she added, “And then we should think about heading back to get our wounds tended and report to the Captain.”
As he had no injures or ways of healing other, Amur bent to looking among the rubble where the skeletons had fallen for anything they may have left behind, though he knew they likely carried nothing, except their weapons, he looked away. He tried to gauge if even their weapons were suitable for taking; might they be worth the trouble of taking back to the ship.

Once he was done, he slipped the eye patch once again around his neck; he had to admit it had been a good idea to try them as the battle may have gone differently if the skeleton pirates had not been prevented from attacking those that wore them.

“Great idea about the patches,” he said as he rejoined the others as he wasn’t sure who it was that had shouted out the warning, “I think it saved us from serious harm.”

Tucking away his things once again, he looked towards the North from whence the musical sounds of water came.

“Shall we see what it was these here undead fellows were guarding perhaps?” Amur said as he started off once again in that direction, keeping his sharp eyes open for further trouble.