ALOF
I am going to fall into the shadows if I haven't already. As I do that I'll say to Grumach " There's a chance it won't work, I mean they might not attack you but they still might attack the rest of us. I'm standing with my long sword drawn ready to backstab anyone who comes near.

DAIN
Dain puts his cloak over the axe to conceal its glow. He waits quietly for the five to arrive in the room from the hallway, axe ready

KINSON
Kinson will remain as still as possible.

TARIN
Tarin will quietly step back behind Biladoc. My swords are drawn and I am ready to pounce if the group stops at the bridge.

DAIN
Dain waits axe ready till they get into the doorway, he will then advance and swing at the nearest, moving into them so as to open an area for those beside and behind to attack

DM
As you all wait the five advance closer. They are within thirty feet at this point. More details can be seen in the five. One is smaller than the other four. He wears a black flowing cloak of silk or some other high quality material. He wears a mask made of gold and painted with red and black. The visage is of a scowling beast with large fangs. You can tell the "man " has a large mace dangling from a leather thong at his belt. There is also another weapon covered by the cloak that can not be seen.
The man next to the short one has grey hair and wears black robes. A gold circlet adorns his brow. At the front of the circlet is a five pointed star with the center point aimed down. This man is wearing obvious plate armor underneath his robes. At his belt is a sling and a mace traced with red runes. In his hands is an old staff made of black wood metal shod tip and butt. The tip has a face of a demon or devil and the eyes of the face glow slightly red.
A man almost seven feet tall walks with great confidence behind the front two. He wears a black tabard and breaches. On his head is a great Helm with an intricate design on it. It appears to be the face of some sort of horned beast. A large sword is sheathed on this man's back. At his belt is a long sword and what looks like two hand axes. The man's sword girdle is wide and studded with silver and small rubies.
Behind the large man and to either side are the two other men.
They each wear chain mail and wear plane black helms with nose guards. A metal point sticks out of each side and the top of their helms. The man on the left is armed with a mace and carries a black shield. He wears black robes over his chain armor. The man on the right has a broad sword sheathed at his side and a morning star on the other side. He wears a black tabard over his chain armor. On his back can be seen a quiver of arrows and a long bow.
The five men move forward towards the group. At this point the shorter one says, "Are those your men up ahead against the wall." To that the man next to him wearing the plate mail says, "What?" He glances forward and then says, "They are not my men nor do I see any except for a couple." The Large man behind them grabs the hand axes off his belt.

DAIN
"Hurry, get the wounded presentable, the great ones approach." Dain says to the band "Forgive us great ones, we returned from the southern continent only to be attacked by a band of elves (spoken with great disgust). We have some gravely injured. Please help my comrades that we may continue in our devoted service."

BILADOC
I'll stand ready to see what comes out of Dain's speech.
Whatever he does, I'll follow. If this comes to a fight, I'll send Shadow to pester the short guy and try to tumble next to the gray haired one and stop him from using his staff (if possible with a gentle backstab). In the meantime, I'm still hiding, right? They only saw two of us (that's what they said, anyway). Wait, swords ready, make no sound.

DM
The man in front speaks, "What temple did you come from?"

DAIN
"We had been assigned at Castle Crag my Lord."
Dain prepares to jump in the water if his bluff fails and the mage throws fire, etc... This is not a good place to be.

TARIN
Tarin will help some of the others stand. I will keep my head down, but I will listen very carefully for sudden movements, words etc.

DAIN
"Worthy master, I am afraid one of your fold is no more. We were recruited to aid in the search in the jungles or our homeland by one of your disciples. While preparing to leave, the dark master was approached by other dark ones slim and short of stature with dark hooded cloaks. He informed us to follow to a conference with these at Castle Crag. Upon our arrival there, we were attacked. Our band fought well but withdrew when our master was fatally wounded. Upon reaching a safe hiding place, the master told us to come and search you out that the truth be known by you of his fate. He gave us guidance here and the passwords that we might find you. We managed to find a mage who expedited our arrival on these shores for all the remaining wealth we had my lord. We have come to tell you, but were attacked by a band of elves who roamed the sewers near here. We fought well, but took many casualties. I fear I know nothing of the dark ones temple or anything else, being but an armed guard. I swore to tell you and now I have so done. Would there be employment for our miserable hides with your worthiness?"
Dain prepares to throw axes at the first sign of trouble and pull back across the bridge, beyond the first guardian.

DM
At these words he looks at the shorter man next to him for a second, and then looks back at Dain, "What was your master the Dark Ones name?"

DAIN
"Dark master, I regret that I can not tell you. We know from his symbol and talk that you serve Diabolicus, but my comrade who dared ask the dark one his name now rots in the jungles of the south. We thought it best to respect his wishes and not question him on his identity. I live to serve but do wish to live. If we displease you, please allow us to leave that we may serve you later when a need arises"
OOC grovel, grovel, good god put the little dwarf on a stage. He didn't have to work this hard to kill the devilkin!!!(GRIN)

DM
"You lie." The man says simply.

ALOF
I stay hidden in the shadows (long sword in hand) and wait for them to come in range for a backstab.

DM
The man simply says, 'I do not know how you made it this far without disturbing my guardians. however, dwarf you must be one of the two who attacked my tower to the north. You must have gotten more information than we suspected. Your lies are full of holes. Now, it is time to die!" His band starts to take action.

CARYNTH
Carynth steps in front of the wounded, armed with her scimitar. She will attack whichever being is closest to her, and if it is the man with the staff, she'll try to strike the staff. (I hope to heck this scimitar is a plus weapon of some kind).

DM
The enemy is some 40 feet away.

CARYNTH
Weellll, I don't have any long-range weapons, so I'll step forward a little bit to meet them.

ALOF
I'm going to throw a couple of daggers at the guy who can't see me when he comes into range. Then I'll draw my long sword and start to back up towards the bridge.

DAIN
Throwing an axe at the man speaking, Dain charges swinging his broad axe over his head "I shall avenge my axe brothers with your blood!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"

TARIN
Tarin will pull his long bow and fire at the robed one.

GRUMACH
Grumach will continue to stand motionless, and wait for a more...opportune time to strike. Unless they seem aware that Grumach is not a guardian (which would be indicated by such things as...arrows), at which point Grumach will attack.

BILADOC
'Kill, Shadow! A curse on your heads, you foul-stinking demons! I'll feed your entrails to the dogs before the end of this day!' I'll keep holding to my enemy, trying to cut him down and stoping him from casting any spells. I'll try to keep him between me and the other badies, so I don't get hit from behind. If I get a chance, I'll drop one short sword and use my special dagger.
OOC:
Come on gang! We can do it! Onward until the final victory! (Err... we can do it, can't we Charles?! Please...;-) ).

DM
Ulath begins casting a spell. The short black cloaked man shakes it off (He gets a save if it is cast on an item he is wearing). Kinson is silent on the ground. Alof waits in the shadows for the enemy to charge. Shadow dives and harasses the black cloaked man. Meanwhile Biladoc tumbles toward the Grey haired man intent on stabbing him. Carynth begins to charge the enemy from her position.
(NOTE: Kinson, Humphrey and Serian you are at 1 hp which means you can move slowly if you wish but nothing else. )
Alof changes his mind as his friends jump into action. He throws two daggers at the Grey haired man. One dagger hits and draws blood. He then draws his long sword and backs towards the bridge. Dain yells, "I shall avenge my axe brothers with your blood!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!" as he throws a hand axe that strikes the grey haired man. The man steps back with a dagger and an axe in him. Dain charges drawing his battle-axe that glow brighter as he moves forward. Tarin fires two arrows at the robed /cloaked man and both miss him badly careen against the walls of the passage. Grumach holds his position acting as the guardian. Fraxen (who has not responded to date) charge with his axe held high. The large man in the middle moves first. Two hand axes appear in his hands and he throws them at the charging Fraxen. Both hand axes strike him square in the chest (-25hp) The dwarf stops dead in his tracks and falls to the ground. The two men behind the large man begin to move. The one carrying the mace steps forward chanting and touches the gray haired one. You can see some of his wounds heal. The second warrior draws his bow and fires one arrow. The arrow goes wide as the bowstring snaps on his bow. The Grey hair man engages the tumbling Biladoc with his staff. Neither he nor Biladoc manage to get a hit on each other. The robed man swings his mace at the Hawk that circles around his head. Carynth and Dain will engage the enemy in melee this coming round.
ACTIONS PLEASE: (Sorry Mark)

CARYNTH
Carynth will engage the closest enemy to her (the man with the throwing axes?) and attempt to slay him mightily with her scimitar.

TARIN
Now that the enemy is engaged, I will set my bow to the side and draw my two swords charging into the melee.

DAIN
Dain charges in, swinging his axe twice at the tall man who threw the axes.

DM
As Dain moves in the large man draws his large sword and smiles. His blade is made of a blackish metal. "Another Beard to carve." He says as he engages you. You can feel evil wash over you as you near him.
OOC:
Note, no need for any more actions for this round Dain. Just wanted to throw that at you as you closed with him. :-)

ALOF
I am going to launch two more daggers at the gray haired man and I'll stay out of reach of melee weapons but close enough to throw daggers without a penalty. If they close in I'll draw my long sword and attack with it instead.

DM
Dain charges in swinging his axe in deadly arcs as he engages the Large man with the two handed sword. His first blow strikes drawing some blood as it slams into the man armor. The second swing the man expertly parries to the side as he brings his two hand sword into action. However the axe slides down and leaves a thin red mark across the man's arm. The large man swings his two handed sword with incredible speed. Striking Dain with it twice (-26hp). The large man seems weak and surprised at the dwarf's tenacity. Shadow dives at the masked man again but misses. Biladoc has no better luck against the priest of Diabolis (Grey Haired man). However, the priest once again can not seem to hit Biladoc with his staff. Alof throws two daggers that both strike the gray haired man. The man moans as they strike him yet remains standing. Carynth moves forward and attempts to engage the large man but the one with the mace steps in. She swings her deadly scimitar but strikes only air. The Man swings his mace and strikes her heavily upon the chest. (-3hp). Grumach charges and will be in melee combat next round. Tarin sets his bow to the side and draws his swords. He charges into the battle. He will be in combat next round as well. Ulath chants as the bowman raises his bow to fire on him. Before the Bowman can fire Ulath points at him and the mace wielding man fighting Carynth. He then points at the large man fighting Dain. The bowman and the mace carrying man both freeze in place. The large man shrugs off the effects of Ulath's powerful spell. Flint stands ready next to Ulath protecting him from any dangers that may come. The masked man that has Shadow diving around him ducks and points his hands up into the air. Large black Tendrils spring from the ground near him and grab Shadow out of the air. They crumble the brave bird as if he was so much paper.
ACTION: 2 enemy held. Leaving the Priest, the masked man, and the large warrior still in action. Note: once again the three people whom are injured, Kinson, Humphrey and Serian can move but noting else. Do you remain where you are or move?

TARIN
Tarin will attack the masked man, speaking louder than usual, "Alof, help Dain with your daggers."

ALOF
I will throw 2 of my 4 remaining daggers at the large man fighting Dain and then grab 2 more to throw when I get a chance. As I am doing the above I'll yell " Take out the masked one!"

GRUMACH
I'll either attack the masked one or the cleric, whomever has less opponents.

BILADOC
As I see what happened to Shadow, I shout enraged: 'NOOOO!!!! FILTHY SCUM!! YOU'LL PAY FOR HIS DEATH A HUNDRED TIMES WITH YOUR BLOOD!! I'LL RIP OUT YOUR HEARTS WITH MY BARE HANDS!! I'LL TAKE OUT YOUR EYES WITH A RUSTY IRON!! I'LL STRANGLE YOU WITH YOUR OWN ENTRAILS!! I'LL DROWN YOU IN YOUR OWN BLOOD!! I'LL SKIN YOU ALIVE AND MAKE BOOTS OUT OF YOUR HIDE!!'
While saying this, I attack my current enemy with renewed strength and determination.
OOC:
What can I say? I grew attached to my pet...

DAIN
Dain steps back and to the side, allowing Carynth and the others to attack the tall warrior, if the warrior attacks him, he will swing at the warrior as well. If the warrior does not attack him, he will turn and hope to catch the robed one by surprise and put it in a throttle hold. "Good job halflings, finish the man off. Ulath keep up the good work. The rest of you attack the man in plate mail. I am in need of rest."

CARYNTH
Carynth attempts to disengage and move toward Dain, chanting a healing spell which she will cast upon him as soon as she is close enough, but ready to parry with her scimitar! (the deadly one that struck air =-))
She says nothing, but looks worried at the turn of strength in the fight.

DM
Humphrey slowly rises and helps Kinson up. They both limp towards the bridge. Biladoc attacks the Grey Haired man in rage now. his many blows strike air or are knocked aside by the mans expert use of his demonic staff. Tarin leaps forward swords flashing in the dim light. Both his swords leave gashes in the masked man. The Mask man looses his concentration on his spell and the dark tentacles disappear. The Mask Man turns towards Tarin in rage. From the slashing blows delivered it can be seen the man is actually a woman and her skin is dark or she wears a dark body suit underneath black armor that is underneath the black robes. Carynth breaks away and heals Dain with a simple spell. (Cure Light Wounds Dain gains 4hp back.) Alof throws two daggers at the large warrior. Both miss the large man. Alof prepares to throw his last two. Grumach engages the Grey Haired priest. One of his blows strikes the priest on the side of the head. His gold circlet falling from his brow to the ground. Dain backs away from the large warrior and strike at the masked "female". With cat like reflexes she steps away from his blows. The Large warrior places a hand firmly to his chest and many of his wounds disappear. He leaps back into the fray. The Grey Hair priest Yell's "Diabolis!" As he swings his staff around at Grumach. The staff impacts on Grumach's chest. (-15hp) The blow sends Grumach back a few steps. Grumach can feel the evil magic that just burned his chest. It was more than the force of the blow that did that. The Masked one grins behind her mask as the entire area goes pitch dark. (Yes, if it had been a spell it should have been disrupted by Tarin's blows). The only one that is outside the area of Darkness and can see anything is Alof. And of course Kinson, Serian, and Humphrey.

BILADOC
When the darkness appears, I use one short sword and the magic dagger at the same time. I keep attacking the gray haired man, tumbling around to avoid his blows, using my blind fighting skills. I keep silent, hoping they can't figure out where I am.

DAIN
"Blasted DROW!" yells Dain.
He moves down the hall in the direction from which the evil ones came. If he comes across a held one, he will drag them with him. Axe at the ready in the right hand in case he runs into a live one. If he engages an enemy, he will swing the axe twice at them

GRUMACH
Were there many people around with me fighting staff-boy? If not I will begin doing wide sweeping attacks with the manriki gusari, aiming at leg level. If there are, I will try to wrestle him, pinning his arms to his side, and bite him in the face.

CARYNTH
Carynth yells, "Can anyone see?" As she was toward the front of her party, what with Dain stepping back, she swings where she remembers someone was before her with her scimitar.

GRUMACH
Actually, scratch the chain. Even if Grumach and the guy with the staff are fighting one on one, he will try to grapple, and, if possible, bite the guy around the head and neck.

TARIN
As the masked one stepped aside, I believe my way farther down the hall is clear, no? That being the case, I will quickly move forward down the hall until I can see to cut off any escape or at least see her escape.

DM
Amendment to combat. Ulath finishes chanting just as the darkness comes up. He is unaware how effective his spell may have been.

HUMPHREY
Humphrey shouts as loud as he can. "If you come towards me you will get out of the darkness." Then he helps Kinson on over the bridge.

CARYNTH
Most cool! That's what's Carynth is doing. =-) (while still attacking, but moving backward (?))

ALOF
I am going to throw my final daggers at the drow! As I do this I'll back up saying just loud enough so Kinson Humphrey and Serian can hear " Guys get some daggers ready!" (In other words I need them!)

HUMPHREY
"Come Sir Kinson, we need to get out of here with our evidence." With that Humphrey leads Kinson across the bridge.

KINSON
To Humphrey and Serian: "We will be of no use in the battle, but we should not leave our companions behind. We can retreat some distance but should stay close at hand. Can you think of any way we can use the surroundings to our advantage?"

ULATH
Damn, stupid Drow!, grumbles Ulath while gripping "Backup" (that's the axe, somehow I like the name). Ulath will say "One says Guard!", and will try to remember the positions of everybody, specially the Big Monster, and will move slowly to that direction trying to identify the sounds of His armour! Can that be done on such a mess?

DM
________________________________~~~________
DDDDDDDDD ~~~
DDDDDDDDDDDDDD ~~~
DDDDDDDDDDDDDDDD ======= Where party Came from ->
DDDDDDDDDDDDDD ~~~~
________________________________~~~________

D=Darkness
~=Water
== Bridge

Grumach in the darkness grabs hold of someone he thinks is the gray haired man and bites him. His teeth sink deep. (Geez, I hope that's him) His target does not struggle. Carynth backs up swinging her scimitar in deadly arcs. However, she still remains in the darkness. Biladoc tumbles around the gray haired man and his short sword sinks deep in what he assume is still the gray haired man. Suddenly he runs into a large furry robed form. Grumach is almost knocked from his feet as the halfling warrior slams into him. At the same time Biladoc feels a blade slices his back (-5hp). Tarin runs forward emerging from the darkness on the far side. as he does he finds himself side by side with the large warrior wearing the fearsome helm. The Warrior turns towards him with his two handed sword at the ready. Kinson, Humphrey and Serian make it across the bridge. Dain moves through the darkness and bumps into an unmoving form. He grabs hold of the man and begins to tug him along. Dain still remains in the darkness. Ulath waits trying to discern friend or foe as Flint guards him nearby. (They are near the bridge and out of the darkness. ) Alof throws two daggers into the darkness hoping to strike the priestess who was there before. The daggers sail in. Dain hears something fly by his ear.

BILADOC
I'll keep tumbling and slashing at the gray haired one (no one in the party was hit except me, right?). If possible, I'll try at the same time to move away from the place where I was hit.
OOC:
Incredible! This is the first time I'm hit in combat! Wish it was the last, too...;-)

DAIN
Dain holds onto the form with left hand and continues to move down the hall, axe ready in right to swing a deadly arc should he encounter an enemy.

CARYNTH
Well, so much for the stalwart, stand and fight approach. Carynth turns and races for the end of the darkness, toward Dain and the others out of it.
OOC:
Nice map, Charles. That was pretty nice of you.

GRUMACH
Grumach's pretty big, and very strong right? Hopefully, I've got this guy in some kind of bear hug... Between my hold on him via grapple, and my hold via snout, I will try to take whomever this is out of darkness (which is probably meaning "pick a direction, and run, carrying the guy"). If I can walk and chew at the same time, I do so.

CARYNTH
Err... I said "Dain" in my previous message, but I meant those who were out of the darkness.

TARIN
Tarin will attack with his long sword and use his short sword to parry the two handed sword. The sound of my swords is the only thing to mark my presence.

ALOF
I'm screwed! I'm going to draw my long sword and walk to the outside of the darkness (not in it!) and wait for any of them who decide to come out. If possible I'll hide in the shadows hoping for a backstab.

DM
Tarin parries the blow from the warrior's large two-handed sword. The blow knocks Tarin back and he almost looses his footing. Tarin's swing does not even come close to the warrior. At this point Dain emerges dragging a mace carrying enemy from the darkness. Carynth rushes out of the darkness to the side of Alof, and Ulath. Grumach's jaws bite into his opponent who seems to be bearing down on him. This guy weighs a ton. He stumbles with the man towards the edge of the darkness but does not escape it at this time. Biladoc hears noises from the area of the Grey haired one. he strikes at it again tumbling. He misses his target. However, Grumach feels blades get awfully close to his neck and back. Hey Biladoc the guy seems to be making a run for the bridge the best you can tell. Ulath bravely moves forward into the darkness waving his axe around like an extended arm. He bumps the axe against Grumach's back who has a mouthful of something. So Grumach does no answer right away when Ulath says, '"Who Flint?" Flint is confused by the two smells mixed together where Grumach is. Alof wisely (?) waits at the edge of the darkness with his long sword drawn. Suddenly a blow strikes Biladoc in the back. It feels hard and round with pointed edges. Blood splatters(-9hp) Biladoc feels something like poison course through his veins he grows faint but his halfling constitution fights off the effects. (There is something very quiet somewhere behind you Biladoc.)

BILADOC
Seeing the tremendous success I'm having in slashing at thin air and scaring my friends while my available hit points keep fading away, I tumble ahead as fast as I can, saying at the same time, loud enough for everyone to hear and know where I am and where I'm going to: 'Follow me if you dare, you "$&%#&#$ coward!'
(I hope this will get me out of the darkness and lure one of the badies into the open, where we can get a shot at him.)

DAIN
From the original positions in the hall, Dain should probably be behind the dark armored form.
Dain drops his baggage and takes advantage of his position to swing his axe mightily into the large knight twice. Sweat pours from his brow as his grimaced face remains as silent stone

SERIAN
Serian says to Humphrey and Kinson, "What happened? " He looks over to Fraxen, "Is he....?" The elf doesn't finish his sentence. After checking Fraxen's body the elf continues, "Where's Grumach?"

DM
Humphrey, Kinson and you are on the bridge hobbling away. The others are no where insight or waiting on this side of a cloud of blackness you can not see through. You see the body of Fraxen not too far away. Two large hand axes buried deep in his chest.

GRUMACH
Hrmm. By Leviscious, this guy is strong.
Grumach will try to lower his center of gravity, and send the pair at a good clip in some random direction, snarling and occasionally biting.

CARYNTH
I don't see that Carynth can do anything outside the edge of darkness but wait for someone to come out she can attack or help.

DM
Dain coming out beside Tarin and the large warrior raises his axe to attack. As he swings darts of raw energy burn into his back sending him reeling forward. (-12hp)Both his swings miss badly. Grumach tumbles and rolls out of the darkness. His jaws clamp on the man's neck. A gush of blood covers his face and nostrils. The man seems very stiff and unmoving. As Grumach emerges he sees the bloody High Priest seem to be stiff and mauled pretty bad. Carynth waits at the edge of the darkness. Tarin swings and misses the large man as Dain lurches out of the darkness. Tarin parries to heavy blows from the large man. The blows batter Tarin backwards. The Large man notices Dain and the low-level priest he dragged from the darkness. He turns so that he can face both of you at once. Biladoc tumbles out of the darkness and lands near Carynth. He has a large cut along his back and a batter spot on the back left shoulder. Alof stands back with long sword drawn. Meanwhile Humphrey, Serian, and Kinson seem to be making good their escape to the other side of the bridge.

ULATH
Ulath will try to get out of the darkness, (since obviously the drow was not where she was suppose to be), so he will go to the noisiest zone, because that seems to be the obvious place for everybody's, friend and enemy ,so he will be alert!

CARYNTH
I lay hands on Biladoc, then will attack the large man, if there are not too many people in my way. Is there anyone else out of the darkness to attack? I'm having a problem visualizing everything. =-/

DAIN
Dain drops pulling the priest on top of him. He cuts the man throat as he lays on the ground.
OOC
He is not combat able but still alive (1hp)

GRUMACH
I'm confused. (s'okay, battle's supposed to be confusing). I take it I killed the high priest (can you believe that's the first time I've ever used a bite attack with a character?)?
Could you maybe send a map of where people are? I have no idea whom I'm near, and other such important details.

BILADOC
Like Grumach asked, I'd also like to know where everyone is (party and enemies), so I can have an idea of what to do next. Carynth has laid hands on me (so to speak). How many HP do I have now (I had 4)?
About the positions:
Dain, Tarin and Grumach are near the big warrior, past the darkness. Serian, Humphrey and Kinson are in the bridge. Carynth, Alof and me are between the darkness and the bridge. Ulath is inside the dark area, moving towards the big warrior. The female drow is hidden inside the darkness and Grumach has taken out the gray haired man. That leaves one 'sleeping beauty' inside the darkness (Dain has taken the other out). Is this correct?

DM
This is all correct except the Grumach is near the bridge not n the far side with Dain, Tarin and the large warrior. And another figure just climbed up onto the bridge.

DERRICK
I climb up carefully and check to see if I can tell where I am.

DM
Climbing up from under the bridge is an elf. he looks around as if he is lost. (Please describe yourself to the others. You are among other PC's)

TARIN
Tarin will continue on with the large man, parrying furiously and attacking with my left hand. Is Grumach on my side of the darkness? Tarin speaks finally, "Dain, it looks like you are hurt, there buddy."

KINSON
Kinson notices the elf climbing up and points him out to Humphrey and Serian. "Who's this? Do you need help?" He steps towards the elf and helps him onto the bridge.

DM
The elf notices that Kinson is a human warrior that can barley stand. He is bandaged from head to toe. There is prost in his hair.

HUMPHREY
Humphrey seeing the elf. "Hello friend. We are fighting fiends of this evil temple. Always glad to have the help of an elf. Beware of the drow."

GRUMACH
Okay, now that I know the layout...
I will run toward the wounded, and stand guard there. If I have time, I will cast cure light wounds on myself.

KINSON
"Grumach, you could have healed Humphrey, or myself and had another warrior in the battle with you. If you were in dire need however, I can see the value of healing thyself."

TARIN
At this point, seeing himself in dire straits, Tarin raises his voice, "We need help on this side!"

BILADOC
I say to the elf on the bridge (is not a friend of Diabolicus, or else he wouldn't be afraid to show himself): 'If you can fight, join us. There are still two followers of Diabolicus to destroy.' As I hear Tarin's cry for help, I say to the party: 'I'm going to join Tarin on the other side. There's only one of them left in the darkness, the female drow. Come with me Alof, we can do more on the other side.' Not waiting to see what the others do, I plunge into the darkness again, tumbling to the other side. I'll keep close to the wall, waving my dagger and short sword, trying to get a lucky hit on the drow.

ALOF
I follow Biladoc with my long sword drawn.

CARYNTH
Carynth looks at the elf hopefully. "Perhaps it is reinforcements! Anyone else under that bridge?" She peers hopefully.

DM
Carynth sees no one else under the bridge. There is a small door there however.

DERRICK
I am an elf, 62'' tall and of slender build. I have dark hair and eyes and olive colored skin. I stare at the group, startled out of my wits. "Where am I?" "My name is Derrik." the elf says slowly. "I am from the land of Los Vain, where I was crossing my country when something happened. A dark elf jumped at me, then everything vanished and I found myself in a tunnel. As far as I know, I am alone."

HUMPHREY
Humphrey smiles back at Derrick: "Greetings Derrik, we fight who are planning great harm for Los Vain. We could use your help." You notice that Humphrey is barely standing with the look of a fighter who has been knocked out of it and brought back from death.

DERRICK
"Someone is planning to attack Los Vain? Well my friend, you shall have my help!"

GRUMACH
Grumach steps forward. He is a hulking figure, over 7' tall, and a gnoll-shi. He wears the robes of a priest. "You are in the temple of Diabolicus, beneath the city of Pensula. A warning, the locals do not welcome elves in the city above, and no one is welcome in the temple below."

DM
Carynth cast a Healing spell on the wounded Biladoc. She looks for the large man and Tarin. (But, they are on the other side of the darkness away from the bridge and she knows not where they are) Ulath , who was in the darkness, rushes forward and runs into an unmoving person within the darkness. He stops for a second..(Could this be the drow?). Kinson and Humphrey attempt to talk to the Elf ranger who just looks around in amazement. Grumach rushes next to Serian and Humphrey. He casts Cure Light wounds on himself(Healed 7hp). Biladoc starts moving forward and enters the darkness as Carynth finishes healing him. Tarin once again exchanges thrusts with the large man while making snide remarks at Dain. Dain lays underneath the corpse he is using as a shield. Neither Tarin nor the large man manages to land a blow. Ulath feels Magic wash over him but shakes off the effects. Alof who does not wait for healing rushes forward and comes plunging out on the other side of the darkness. He sees Dain under a corpse, and Tarin fighting the large man. The large man seems a little concerned that help has arrived. 'Damn you elf. Stop blocking and let me chop your head off!" He yells at Tarin.

TARIN
"Sorry, no." I continue on with my attack and parry plan as it is keeping me alive.

BILADOC
I'll try to backstab the large man with my black dagger. If I see that I can't do it, I'll start throwing daggers (normal ones) at him and tumbling to keep away from his blade. I'll try, if possible, not to turn my back to the dark area. (One never knows what may come flying out of it...).
OOC:
With Dex bonus and weapon bonus, I hope to turn 'a little concerned' into 'slightly dead' ;-). Charles, we only have the drow and this guy to deal with, right? Dain's opponent and Grumach's opponent are already 'slightly dead' and the fifth man is still snoring in the dark (why didn't you finish him off, Ulath?). Am I right?

DM
Ulath and Biladoc will come out of the darkness at the beginning of next round. They will have a chance to attack those on the other side so please make any notations as such in your next actions.

CARYNTH
Carynth eyes the door and says, "Greetings, Derrik. There is much going on, as you can see. Can you tell us where that tunnel leads, so far as you know?"

DERRICK
"I only came a short way in the tunnel. The trap door was so tight I could barely fit through it. I am not sure how far it goes."

ALOF
I am going to attack the tall warrior with my long sword.

GRUMACH
Grumach will ready a chain for throwing, and stand on the top of the bridge (hoping it will go over everyone's heads). That darkness ain't gonna last forever, and when it lifts, that drow's eating chain (if my aim is true, and she's still there). Also, that hold person won't last forever, either.

ULATH
Ulath will smash the head of the paralyzed dud in front of him, if he dies to bad, if not at least he will be knocked out! Ulath has spellcraft, can he identify the spell casted at him? After flattening the paralyzed dud, Ulath will move out of darkness shouting, there is an magic user in the darkness that can see us. Grumach use the Blade Barrier scrolls to corner her and then come and finish her!
OOC:
Ok everybody knows that there are no blade barrier scrolls, but the drow doesn't and it's time for her to start having some worries?

KINSON
"Greetings Derrik. Are you injured?" He sees the frost in Derrik's hair and offers him his cloak, at least to dry the dampness, if it is too large to wear. "You've said you are here because of evil intent. I don't think it would be wise to strike off on your own, would you please join our group?"
"The tunnel might be a good means of egress, as our activities here will be noticed, and the creatures that inhabit this temple would be able to tell the direction of our retreat. If the door under the bridge is a secret we may gain time to restore our strength."

GRUMACH
OOC:
I had thought that the wounded were either busy with fighting or had been magically healed to the extent possible.
IC:
Grumach will try and find the people most in need of healing. (Since he can't see those on the other side of the darkness... my apologies)

DM
On the far side of the darkness Biladoc burst from the darkness and throws two daggers at the large warrior. Both miss him and one nearly hits Tarin. Dain starts searching the pockets of the man laying on top of him. Alof swipes at the large man with his long sword. The warrior spins with his two hand sword parrying Alof and Tarin blows at the same time. The blow knocks Tarin backwards but Alof is not as lucky. He feels a sharp pain across his chest. (-11hp) Looking down Alof sees blood gush out of the large cut in his chest. The Large man comments, "You fight well but your help seems to be dropping like flies." Ulath smashes the figure in front him. The man falls to the ground. Ulath yells at Grumach. Grumach begins chanting from atop the bridge. Carynth waits at the edge of the Darkness as Kinson and Humphrey converse with the new elf that has arrived. The elf sees a large dog headed man standing on the bridge and chanting. Ahead stands a female in robes near a barrier of darkness which his eyes can not see through. Meanwhile the two human warriors talk to him as another elven warrior rests nearby. Also at the edge of the darkness can be seen the body of a dwarf and a large man with a gold circlet. At this moment bolts of light streak out of the darkness and strike Grumach square on the chest. (16hp). They burn deep into the large Gnoll-shi's chest. (It seems the lady believed Ulath's ruse)

GRUMACH
Grumach's at -2 hp now. If he can, he'll avoid falling into the river. Outta my hands now...

HUMPHREY
Humphrey looks over to Kinson: Can you pray to your God for help?

DERRICK
Derrik takes the cloak and nods with appreciation. "I fear the passage I came through would be to small for you to pass. But I would be honored to travel with you and your friends for a while."

BILADOC
I yell to the other side of the darkness:
'Someone get inside the darkness and take care of the drow. We take care of the guy on this side.'
Seeing what the Meat Grinder did to Alof, I'll keep tumbling around the guy, keeping away from sword reach and looking for an opening to try a backstab with my black dagger. If I can approach him from behind, while Tarin and Ulath keep him busy, I'll go for the backstab. If not, I'll keep throwing daggers at him (still got 8...).
OOC:
Since the drow can see perfectly in that dark area and we can't, the only way to get her is to go inside, waving swords in all directions until someone hits her (the hall is not that wide that she can escape two people doing this) and then try to pull her out or finish her in the spot. Until someone does that, we're just sitting ducks for her.

CARYNTH
Since Carynth is pretty much useless in the dark, she will attempt to push through it to where the tall man is fighting against her friends. Hopefully, I shall be able to help their melee next round.

DERRICK
Derrik pulls his long bow into position and readies an arrow. He takes careful aim at the nearest enemy of the group, and fires. He is using flight arrows, 1d6.

DM
The magical bolts came out of the darkness and the only other known enemy is on the other side of the darkness. Bot are out of sight.

ULATH
OOC
We're making HUGE progress here!, 3 more rounds and this encounter will be terminated, unfortunately we'll not be the winners, but anyway we took 3 with us, so...
In the name of Zephyr, strike with strength, In the name of Law, strike with sharpness, in the name of all that oppose Diabolicus ONE says Die, you skunk! This is what Ulath will shout in the next round to the "Meat-Grinder" , while trying his best to improve the condition of the "meat-grinder" towards death!
OOC
... One of you should at least try to escape with warning to the world outside!

GRUMACH
Grumach falls onto the bridge with a loud thump. (OOC: DARN!)

KINSON
"Humphrey, bind Grumach's wounds. I'll ask for divine help."
Kinson drops to his knees and begins praying like he's never prayed before: "These are good people fighting evil and deserve their lives spared..." his words trail off, but you can hear him speaking very softly.

DERRICK
"What is it you are fighting? Why can't I see it? Tell me what to do, and I will help."

ALOF
I am going to run back threw the darkness staying close to the wall and run out to whomever's on the other side. When I get there I'll say to the group " I need Healing here." (I'm at 1hp) I'll also say to Derrick "go in through the way I came there is a large warrior in plate mail on the other side of the darkness attack him."

CARYNTH
Carynth will indeed wander about the darkness, waiving her scimitar like a madwoman, hoping to hit the drow who can see her coming. Why not? ;-)

HUMPHREY
Humphrey goes and grabs Grumach and binds his wounds.

TARIN
Sorry, I thought I sent my actions. They will continue to be parry with one and attack with the other. I will maneuver so that the warrior's back is to the darkness and he is in between me and the drow back there (hopefully).

DM
Derrick with sword in Hand charges into the Darkness next to Carynth. Serian wander down the tunnel the way the party came. Unseen to the rest of the band a hand comes out and pulls Serian around the corner. There is a brief conversation and then silence. Meanwhile Tarin strikes yet misses the Large warrior. The Warrior strikes at Tarin as his enemies grow in numbers. His sword Strikes Tarin knocking his short sword aside. (-17hp ouch!!!!!) Biladoc moves in but can not find a opening as the large warrior moves constantly to avoid Biladoc's attack. Biladoc throws two daggers, one nearly hitting Tarin but the other one finding its mark in the large warrior side. He groans in pain as it hits him . Alof runs into the darkness again appearing on the other side. Ulath yells and attacks the large warrior. The dwarven priest misses him however.
Derrick and Carynth are swinging in the darkness. Alof almost gets hit running through. Derrick yells to Carynth. 'She's here. You hear a battle commence that seems to be in the air above you somehow. "She's floating Derrick yells....ARRGGHHH! Blood splatters on Carynth as she starts to move towards Derrik and the "drow??"
Dain remains unmoving under the fallen priest. Grumach bleeds to (-3). Flint yelps and leaps in the darkness barking and howling the large dog comes. It snaps at the air in the middle of the darkness but misses its target.
(Take Derrick off your list as he just dropped out of the game.)

CARYNTH
Carynth now begins swinging in the air! In the direction from which the blood splatter flew, as in, if it was to the right, in the air more toward the right, etc. Wish me luck!

BILADOC
OOC:
Hi Derrick! Bye Derrick! I guess he was to scared to keep going, huh? Well, lets face it. What would any of us do if the DM would say: "You start your adventure by being hit on the head. When you wake up, you see a party of adventurers being slaughtered in front of you. What do you do?" ;-).
BIC:
I throw one of my short swords to Tarin (not AT Tarin, Charles!): 'Catch, Tarin! Priests, use the dead guys' weapons! Staffs, maces, whatever!' (hopefully, these have some +something to hit and +something to damage). I keep up my plan: Tumbling. If I can backstab, black dagger. If not, throw daggers (still got 6...). Always trying to keep an eye on the dark area, ready to dodge any attack from there.

DAIN
I bandage my wounds and see if any of the clerics can heal me.
"Heal me that I might continue to fight clerics. Our ranger needs my axe!"

DM
Tarin collapses gasping from the blow. he falls flat on his face his swords skittering across the stone floors as they break from his grasp.

ULATH
OOC,
So our light in the end of the tunnel, sparkled briefly, and ended in darkness. Ulath will move behind Tarin and cast a Cure light Wounds on Tarin, while he is fighting.

BILADOC
OOC:
Hold everything! Tarin down?! You mean it's just me and Ulath against the Meat Grinder? Change of plans, forget the dagger throwing. And forget the short sword throwing, too (I don't think Tarin could catch it now...). Huh... do any of you guys believe in reincarnation?...
BIC:
As Tarin collapses, I run towards the darkness again. I say to Ulath, as I do so, approaching him in my way out, keeping next to him as we enter the darkness (I don't think he's going to stand there alone): 'Run Ulath! This big clumsy $&/#%&*&$ won't catch us in the dark!' As I run, I start to take something out of my backpack and say to Carynth: 'Strike the air above Flint, Carynth! He can smell the drow!' When I reach the inside of the darkness (and only then, so no one can see what I'm doing) I finish taking my rope and grappling hook out of my backpack, give one end to Ulath and push him to his side of the wall, whispering to him:
'Wait.'
I move to my side of the wall firmly holding the other end.
OOC:
I know, it's to much to do in one round, but this is the sequence I'll follow. Hope Ulath joins me in the dark (if he's not suicidal, I think he will). Can you split these actions to fit the rounds, Charles? Thanks.

ALOF
Turning To Humphrey and Kinson I say " I'm getting Help I'll go look for Shanna at the inn she'll have friends that can help us." I start walking towards the Grate wear we first met the owlbears. If anyone wants to tell me anything before I go do it quick.

GRUMACH
OOC:
Ithink a big reason we're getting cut to pieces is that we rushed in before we were really ready. I mean, a good chunk of the party is having enough trouble just standing up and we rush in to fight the major adversary of the campaign. I know Grumach was low on ammo, and if he had had time could have rigged some more stinkpots (don't laugh, the work), and maybe some other surprised could have been cooked up.
I think that getting torn up by the gate guard should have clue enough to back up and think some more...

BILADOC
OOC:
We didn't had a chance to escape, Grumach. The five guys appeared as we were still trying to see in what shape everyone was. If we could've got the drow and the priest first, we could've defeated them at this point (or at least have some more people fighting). I guess it's up to Carynth to get the drow. Don't let us down, girl ;-).
Ulath and me will take care of the Big Baddie. Remember, it's not over 'till the fat lady sings. Btw, how fat was the person we heard chanting down the hall, Charles? ;-).

ULATH
Ulath will follow Biladoc, taking advantage of the fact that I'm away from the bad dud. Once Ulath receives the rope and grasp Biladoc's plan, he'll say in a normal voice but slightly loud. - Stay with me Biladoc, If we find Carynth and the drow, I want to know where you are! Then he'll grab the rope and move to the side, praying silently to Zephir, "If he comes give him a little push, Oh Mighty One.
OOC
Worse than this only when my Samurai in "Bushido" had to spent 4 ki points just to stay alive and make the last strike to the Uba, then dropped to the ground unconscious, eventually some member of the party awoke and bandaged us, there was nobody standing but the Uba was dead!

DAIN
Seeing that no cleric is going to aid him, Dain slides into the darkness and proceeds along the wall to the other side of the darkness, avoiding where the battle is raging in the hall. Upon reaching the other side. "The dark knight still stands and the drow fights in the shadows. Does anyone have a spell of healing that I might take advantage of?" I bandage my wounds.

DM
Humphrey walks slowly over to Grumach and begins binding his wounds. Carynth swings in the darkness and hits only air. She hears Derick groan as he swings his sword again at the floating drow priestess. There is a loud crack and a gush of blood splatters Carynth. She hears something hit the ground hard. Dain crawls out from under the dead priest. He has found a small purse with coins in it. Biladoc charges into the darkness. As he enters the darkness he begins taking out his rope. Ulath charges into the darkness with Biladoc and grasps the other end of the rope. They begin to pull it across the tunnel. (how high or Low are you going to hold it?) Dain begins to crawl into the darkness. The Black Knight smiles as he sees Dain trying to crawl away into the Dark. Alof certainly not wanting to fight the large guy by himself charges into the darkness away from the fight. he outruns Biladoc and Ulath and exits on the other side in short order. The Dark Knight steps behind Dain who is doing his best to avoid any blows and escape in the darkness. Dain enters the darkness there by making it very hard for the Knight to hit. The Knight makes a wide swing which unfortunately does hit Dain. (-17hp) It slices deep in to the brave dwarves chest and torso. He was left behind and attempted his best to get away. He screams a defiant challenge as he falls to the ground. The Dark Knight quickly turns and moves on the downed Tarin. His Blow lands squarely on Tarin's Neck and severs his head. "Death is the fate for those that challenge Diabolis. Meanwhile in the darkness Flint leaps one more time. This time its teeth sink deep into the drow's Flesh. She screams and Carynth can tell exactly where she is. Kinson seems awed as he kneels and stares at the ceiling.
(It seems that Dain and Tarin just passed. I know how hard it is to loose a character but I have to play the evil knight to the hilt. Or else he would not be an evil knight correct?. You two guys are welcome to make out new 1st level characters and submit them to me. Your courage shall be remembered by your companions and this DM.)

ALOF
I'm going to hurry to the Green Dragon hoping to get either Shanna or some adventurers (the NPC's) and then get them to rush back here.

CARYNTH
Gritting her teeth in frustration, Carynth attempts to hit the flying drow, now that she knows Exactly where she is! Sure hope someone walks out of this alive! (or runs)

DM
So Alof is going to rush out of the temple, into the sewers, to the Green Dragon where all the commotion was the day before and look for help?

ALOF
Yes, but once I'm on the street I'll be very cautious. Remember the halfling the guard saw was Biladoc not me!

KINSON
Kinson rises slowly, obviously shaken from his concentrated praying. "My god has spoken and said we need to use our minds as well as our bodies to fight.
I suggest we retreat from this place as quickly as possible."
He removes the flask of oil from his lantern and begins pouring it on the bridge near the center.
"Humphrey, if Grumach still lives, drag him over to the far side of the bridge; I going to burn it. Does anyone else have any additional oil? The larger the fire the better. Serian ready a torch to light the fire, please."
Then he yells: "Everyone across the bridge, now!!! Those that can fight we may need to defend the bridge for a short time." He will wait until everyone is across, then light the oil -- hopefully trapping those we don't desire to follow on the other side.
"Lets hope this works."

DM
Humphrey like you is too weak to drag anyone. He is very badly injured. Picture you guys as being a little mobile intensive care patients and ya got the right feel for it.

DM
Kinson is pouring oil on the bridge as the battle rages on. Alof appears near Humphrey and him panting. Alof runs down the tunnel out of sight. Carynth swings her scimitar and it hits drawing blood. She hears the drowess moan. Flint however is not as lucky. She feels a rush of air as something in the air moves away at rapid speed. Its heading away from the bridge and towards the Meat grinder. Meanwhile Biladoc and Ulath hold the rope across the passage. Something heavy hits the rope and falls in and clang of metal on metal. They hear the large man curse from between them.

HUMPHREY
Humphrey lights a torch, and says to those retreating, "Grab Grumach, bind his wounds and bring him with us. Sir Kinson and I do not have the strength. Someone else want to light the bridge to cover our retreat?"
He hands the torch for the offering. If no one takes it then he will light the bridge as soon as he believes that all that are alive are safely across. He will definitely light it if he sees enemies approaching.
Then as soon as he is able he will retreat with the others.

ULATH
Ok, For this round Ulath and Biladoc will keep as programmed, "swing the rope and chop the dud".
While chopping Ulath will shout. Get the drow Carynth; One says Die! (that's for the dog!) That will give me time to consult Paulo about Biladoc's action for next round!

KINSON
"Humphrey, don't light the fire yet. There are still sounds of battle." then yells again: "retreat!" Someone who is strong enough get a rope ready in case we need to fish someone from the river.
"Let's clear the bridge so we aren't in the way when the rest of our party runs across. Humphrey, you can stay to light the fire, or have someone strong enough throw the torch from a feet away."
He asks again, "does anybody have anything flammable we can add to the oil?"

CARYNTH
After hearing a cry for retreat, your noble druid heaves a huge sigh of relief and makes a break for the other side of the bridge. So much for stalwartness and perseverance, let's try to live!

HUMPHREY
Humphrey, with the torch lit looks to Carynth taking care of Grumach, "I believe those wounds still need binding." Then to those in the darkness. "We are ready for your retreat."

DM
Biladoc and Ulath attack the armored warrior in the darkness. Ulath misses the warrior badly. However, Biladoc's swords sink deeply into the warrior.
The Warrior swings and his sword career's off the floor somewhere near Biladoc. Flint(the dog) runs past Ulath and Biladoc chasing the drow priestess. He leaps and bites her again. She scrams and swings her mace at the animal speaking words of eldritch enchantment. Her Mace slams into Flint cracking several of the dog's ribs. Flint is still alive but badly wounded. Carynth comes out of the darkness towards the bridge as Kinson and Humphrey try to organize a retreat. Grumach lays on the bridge. Serian seems to have gone down the tunnel already getting away as best you can tell.

CARYNTH
Carynth will attempt to lift Grumach and bring him along!

DM
You can drag him but you sure can't carry the big guy.

KINSON
"Thanks, I feel terrible, not being able to move him myself."

CARYNTH
This is fine with Carynth, who will be the one binding Grumach's wounds and then bringing him along! However, she can't do this and light the bridge too, just so you know she's not accepting the torch. Can't wait to see if we make it out of this! What fun!

HUMPHREY
That's okay, Humphrey has the torch ready to light the fire. I couldn't agree more -- fun!!!

BILADOC
OOC:
Hi people! Glad to see that some of us are still alive. So, you left me and Ulath to take care of everything, didn't you? What a lazy party... ;-).
Charles, I think you have kept Fraxen's address (markh@midmonet.net) and erased Ulath's (joao.bela@mail.telepac.pt).
BIC:
I'll run after Flint and throw a couple of daggers at the drow. (She must be about to collapse, right?). If I miss her, I'll try to approach her tumbling, so I can be close to attack her next round. I yell to the rest of the party:
'Get some arrows ready! This darkness is about to disappear.'

HUMPHREY
Biladoc, your messages seem a little behind the times. The drow has already gotten away and probably going after reinforcements. We need to escape to fight another day and grab what we can from the enemy who have fallen.

-----End of chapter---------

A little fuzzy, to say the least. The last part of the fight was very confuse and I think we all can see the DM gave everyone a bonus. By all the logic we should be a memorable party of corpses by now... Let's try to live up to the expectations of the DM. Thanks Charles ;-).