Fantasy World Creations

The staircase was short but surprisingly steep. Descending about ten feet into ground below the tumulus before terminating at the stone slab floor of a short hallway. To the west, thanks to the illumination of a shaft of sunlight coming from the door, you can see a closed door of well preserved wood. The air below the surface is cool, as expected, but interestingly quite dry.

[info]Exploration will follow the established marching order unless the group decides to change it.
Roll20 Link (https://app.roll20.net/join/5769518/PNxYsg)[/info]

     Thedrin, who had been absentmindedly rubbing one of his horns, perked up at the appearance of the entrance and pulled out his warhammer as they party descended down into the tomb, taking his rightful place at the head of the party. Making it to the bottom, he looked back and forth, and seeing one dead end turned to the next door. "And behold, the wealth of the wizard." He said sarcastically as he pushed open the door with the head of his hammer, expecting to find nothing more than a dried out wizard's corpse.

The oaken door swings open easily on hinges miraculously free of rust, likely the result of some minor cantrip. As if triggered by the end of the door's motion, several torches lining the walls of the chamber beyond suddenly ignite themselves with an eerie purple flame casting a dim light.

The room beyond the door is largely plain. Nondescript carvings of exotic animals decorate the walls, and a wide basin on a pedestal sits at its center. On the western wall are two more doors, the one nearest you is made of stone, lacks a handle, and has a glyph carved in its center; the other is made of wood. To the south, a metal grate allows you a glimpse of a hallway on the other side. The eastern wall has a hole large enough for a small dog to fit through, and crumbled stone and earth lies in a pile on the floor nearby.

[info]Thedrin can finish his movement if there is any remaining, then Rhenri is up.[/info]

     "Great, nothing here."  Said Thedrin as he entered into the chamber. "So now what?"

---

"We explore." Rhenri said. She moved up into the room to look around.

[info][blockquote]Perception 1d20+7 : 11 + 7, total 18[/blockquote][/info]

[info]Rhenri's Perception:
You notice with a closer look around the room that the pile of dirt near the hole in the eastern wall has the hallmarks of a rodent's nest. A nest could contain pilfered grave goods, or just chewed up trash. Closer inspection would be required.[/info]

[info]Cecilia is up.[/info]

Cecilia moves into the room behind her allies, looking around to take in the sights. "Probably best to be prepared." She cast Mage armor on herself. "Anyone want some light, just in case?"

[info]Casting Mage armor on myself (duration 1 hour) Light on my quarter staff (duration 10 minutes) and if able, casting light for anyone who wants it on whatever they want it on.

Level 1 Spells Prepared: Mage Armor Color Spray, Grease.
[/info]

"Oim good, can still see pretty well." Scathach answered, walking into the room. "Anything interesting?"

[info]Thedrin to move.[/info]

     Thedrin rested his shield arm's hand on his hip and heft his hammer onto his shoulder as he inspected the basin in the center of the room. "Nothing except what I assume is the prized washbasin of a long rotted corpse."

[info] Perception to inspect the basin[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+2 : 10 + 2, total 12[/blockquote]
Knowledge (Religion or Nobility) if needed[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+4 : 15 + 4, total 19[/blockquote][/info]

[info]An examination of the basin shows that it likely held some kind of liquid in the past, though what kind you can't say. At the bottom is a small niche that at one time held an object that is missing now.[/info]

From the hole in the wall a slight rustling can be heard, like the sound of something skittering around.

[info]Rhenri up.[/info]

---

[info]Active Stance of the Piercing Rays.

Perception on the sound of something skittering around.

[blockquote]Perception 1d20+7 : 4 + 7, total 11[/blockquote][/info]

[info]Rhenri's Perception:
The skittering sound is likely coming from some kind of animal, and is definitely coming from the hole in the wall.[/info]

"Shall we investigate? I'm not one to take the lead in such situations but I'll provide as much support as I'm able." Cecilia looked towards the hole and motioned with her staff as she spoke. "It's best to clear the area before we get lost in the history of this place."

[info]Holding firm, waiting for someone else to take the lead. [/info]

     "Probably a mole or some other vermin... but I guess I could take a look." Replied Thedrin as he sauntered over to the hole, kicking one of the loose rocks in a he approached.

The rock skips a short distance across the floor and into the hole in the wall, bouncing off some unseen surface it makes a clattering sound before falling silent. Shortly thereafter, a sudden burst of motion erupts from the opening as a furry something springs forth.

[info]Thedrin to make a reflex save.[/info]

     "Eeeek!" Cries Thedrin as he recoils and jumps back.

[info] Reflex save[blockquote]Rolled 1d20 : 5, total 5[/blockquote][/info]

In his attempt to avoid whatever creature had just leapt from the hole, Thedrin's foot caught on the opposite ankle, causing him to lose his balance and tumble backwards to the floor.

The creature, resembling an incredibly large rat chattered and hissed angrily. A moment later it was joined by another equally large rodent scurrying over Thedrin's body.

[info]Thedrin is now prone.
Roll for initiative.[/info]

---

[info][blockquote]Initiative 1d20+5 : 3 + 5, total 8[/blockquote][/info]

[info] Initiative[blockquote]Rolled 1d20 : 17, total 17[/blockquote][/info]

[info] Initiative
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+6 : 12 + 6, total 18[/blockquote]
[/info]

Incensed by Thedrin kicking a rock into it's nest, one of the large rats tries to gnaw at his flesh, but is unable to find a gap in his armor.

[okay]Large Rat 1 bites at Thedrin and misses.[/okay]
[info]Cecilia's Turn.[/info]

[spoiler=Combat Info]
Initiative Order: Rat 1, Cecilia, Scathach, Thedrin, Rat 2, Rhenri

---

Round 1:
Rat 1 attacks Thedrin, misses.[/spoiler]

Cecilia gasps as the rat bursts out of the hole and Thedrin falls to the ground. She quickly composes herself, and concentrates for a moment, firing a dart of acid towards the closest rat creature.

[info] Using 1 acid dart. ranged touch attack, ignores spell resist.
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+2 : 12 + 2, total 14[/blockquote]
Damage: [blockquote]Rolled 1d6 : 6, total 6[/blockquote]

Acid darts left: 6
Spells left: Color Spray, Grease.
[/info]

The caustic projectile smacks wetly into the rat's face. As the rodent's flesh begins to melt, it screeches in pain, falling over and convulsing. Simultaneously, Scathach knocks and looses an arrow at the rat biting at Thedrin, scoring a glancing blow.

[okay]Cecilia shoots Large Rat 2, hits, 6 damage. Rat 2 is dying.[/okay]
[okay]Scathach shoots Large Rat 1, hits, 1 damage.[/okay]
[info]Thedrin's Turn[/info]


[spoiler=Combat Info]
Initiative Order: Rat 1, Cecilia, Scathach, Thedrin, Rat 2, Rhenri

---

Round 1:
Rat 1 attacks Thedrin, misses.
Cecilia shoots Rat 2, hits.
Rat 2 is dying.
Scathach shoots Rat 1, hits.[/spoiler]

     Gritting his teeth, Thedrin shakes off the vermin's attacks and picks himself up to swing his hammer.

[info]Move action: Stand from prone

Standard Action: Attack Large Rat 1[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+4 : 14 + 4, total 18[/blockquote][/info]

[info]Oops forgot damage

Bludgeoning damage[blockquote]Rolled 1d8+3 : 6 + 3, total 9[/blockquote][/info]

As Thedrin found his footing, the remaining rat took the opening to bite at him once again. This time, it's teeth found an exposed area and sun deep into his flesh. In response, Thedrin's hammer came crashing down into its head, crushing the rat's skull and leaving the rodent twitching on the floor.

[error]Rat 1 takes an attack of opportunity against Thedrin, bites him for 3 damage.[/error]
[okay]Thedrin attacks Rat 1, hitting for 9 damage. Rat 1 is now dying.[/okay]
[info]Combat over, everyone receives 90 experience.[/info]
[info]Thedrin to make a Fort save.[/info]

[info] Fortitude save[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+3 : 8 + 3, total 11[/blockquote][/info]

---

[info]Perception through the southern grate
[blockquote]Perception 1d20+7 : 9 + 7, total 16[/blockquote][/info]

Through the iron grating at the southern end of the room, you can see what appears to be a hallway. With some effort made to shift your perspective as much as possible, you can tell that the passage (lit with the same dim magical light sources as the room you are in) extends some distance both east and west. A thin coat of dust on the floor indicates that the hall has been unused for a considerable amount of time.

     Thedrin walked over to the door with the glyph on it.  "Well wizard, I don't suppose you can do that trick again on this door?"

---

Satisfied with the lack of danger past the southern grate, Rhenri made a passing glance towards Thedrin as she moved to the western wooden door without the glyph on it.

[info]Stealth to move up and work quietly
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+8 : 6 + 8, total 14[/blockquote]

Perception for traps
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+7 : 10 + 7, total 17[/blockquote][/info]

A cautious examination of the door indicates that it is safe. As safe as a door in a wizard's crypt can be. Your search reveals no traps, obvious or otherwise.

     Seeing Rhenri inspect the door,  Thedrin went over to it.  "And behold once again, the wealth of the wizard."  He announced as he pushed on the door's handle.

Despite the age of the door it swings open smoothly on its hinges, revealing a corridor. The hallway takes a sharp turn to the south, likely extending down and past the iron grate Rhenri looked through earlier.

     "So much unadorned wall... Where's the tapestries? The statues? Bas reliefs? This wizard might as well have just buried himself in an unmarked grave." Said Thedrin a he walked down the corridor.

---

Rhenri remained quiet as she followed behind Thedrin.

[info]Stealth
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+8 : 20 + 8, total 28[/blockquote]

Perception (in general, the room beyond)
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+7 : 8 + 7, total 15[/blockquote][/info]

At the end of the corridor you find yet another wooden door. Like everything else you've seen so far in the crypt the door looks un-phased by the passage of time. Pressing an ear to the door to listen beyond, Rhenri hears what sounds like the slow shuffle of feet on stone.

---

"I hear a slow shuffle of feet on stone." Rhenri whispered her voice barely audible. "Ready?" She mouthed the words but proceeded to lightly play with an arrow to state her intentions.

[info]Trap search on door. Taking 10 if possible. If not, here's the roll:
[blockquote]Perception 1d20+7 : 10 + 7, total 17[/blockquote]
[/info]

A quick search of the door reveals no traps.

     Thedrin, who had been prepared to push open the door, pulled his hand back at Rhenri's warning. He tightened his grip on his hammer and shield then, looking at the others, declared "Behold the guardians of the wizard's treasures!" before pressing down the handle and kicking in the door.

Thedrin's boot collides with the door with a solid thud, swinging quickly open on its hinges where it clatters against the wall with a loud crash. Inside a pair of rotting human corpses, previously shuffling around aimlessly, whip their heads in unison toward the sound. Their jaws open, distending in an unnatural manner to reveal mouths full of decaying teeth.

"UuuuaaaAAAAAAAAAAAUUUUuuuhhhh~!!!" they moan together, forcing putrid air from shriveled lungs past what little remains of their vocal cords.

[info]Roll initiative.[/info]

---

[info][blockquote]Inititiave 1d20+5 : 1 + 5, total 6[/blockquote][/info]

[info] Initiative[blockquote]Rolled 1d20 : 5, total 5[/blockquote][/info]

[info] initiative
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+6 : 13 + 6, total 19[/blockquote]
[/info]

[info]Cecilia to act.[/info]

[spoiler=Combat Info]
Roll20 (https://app.roll20.net/join/5769518/PNxYsg)
Initiative Order: Cecilia, Zombie 1, Zombie 2, Scathach, Rhenri, Thedrin

---

Round 1:
[/spoiler]

Cecilia squeezed past her allies, her curiosity about the chamber overwhelming any instinct to stay safe. She shoots an acid dart at the nearest creature.

[info] Acid dart (ranged touch attack)

[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+2 : 18 + 2, total 20[/blockquote]
damage:  [blockquote]Rolled 1d6 : 3, total 3[/blockquote]
[/info]

The dart of acid zips through the air, splashing across the arm of the walking corpse and melts off a patch of decaying flesh with an audible sizzle. The zombie does not seem to care though, as it breaks out into a quick shamble and brings its arms down on Cecelia in a slam. The attack, though deflected somewhat by her mage armor, still connects with Cecilia's arm with a painful wet thud. The second zombie, shuffles forward slowly, groaning.

Meanwhile, Scathach darts past Rhenri and Thedrin to enter the room with bow drawn and arrow knocked. She lets the projectile fly and its head buries deep in the chest of the second zombie, but the creature shrugs off the attack.

[okay]Cecilia shoots zombie 1 with acid dart, dealing 3 damage.[/okay]
[error]Zombie 1 charges Cecilia with a slam, dealing 4 damage.[/error]
[info]Zombie 2 moves.[/info]
[okay]Scathach shoots Zombie 2, dealing 2 damage.[/okay]

[info]Rhenri to take turn.[/info]


[spoiler=Combat Info]
https://app.roll20.net/join/5769518/PNxYsg
Initiative Order: Cecilia, Zombie 1, Zombie 2, Scathach, Rhenri, Thedrin

---

Round 1:
Cecilia shoots Zombie 1, 3 damage
Zombie 1 attacks Cecilia, 4 damage
Zombie 2 moves
Scathach shoots Zombie 2, 2 damage
[/spoiler]

---

With the arrow in hand, she followed after Scathach, setting her stance and letting an arrow fly.

[info]Swift: Active Stance of the Piercing Rays
Move: Withdraw bow
Free: 5 ft. step
Standard action: Attack

+0 BAB, +5 DEX, +1 Point Black Range, did not apply any potential penalties
[blockquote]attack 1d20+6 : 12 + 6, total 18[/blockquote]
[blockquote]if hit, piercing 1d8 : 3, total 3[/blockquote]
[blockquote]if hit, fire 1d6 : 5, total 5[/blockquote][/info]

[info][/info]

[info]+1 piercing damage from point-blank shot.[/info]

Rhenri's flaming arrow streaks past Scathach's head and strikes the walking corpse in the chest. The attack elicits little response from the unholy creature but the fire begins to burn away at its decomposing flesh, filling the chamber with an unpleasant odor.

[okay]Rhenri shoots Zombie 1, dealing 5 Fire damage.[/okay]
[info]Thedrin to take turn.[/info]

[spoiler=Combat Info]
Roll20 (https://app.roll20.net/join/5769518/PNxYsg)
Initiative Order: Cecilia, Zombie 1, Zombie 2, Scathach, Rhenri, Thedrin

---

Round 1:
Cecilia shoots Zombie 1, 3 damage
Zombie 1 attacks Cecilia, 4 damage
Zombie 2 moves
Scathach shoots Zombie 2, 2 damage
Rhenri shoots Zombie 1, 5 damage
[/spoiler]

[info] Free Action: Knowledge (Religion) to identify[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+4 : 13 + 4, total 17[/blockquote][/info]

[info]Knowledge Religion (17):
You recognize these walking corpses as zombies, mindless undead creations. Their poor reflexes and rotted muscles prevent them from moving quickly (permanently staggered) however they can sometimes attack with surprising speed (can move and attack as a charge action). Their dead flesh is resistant to most forms of physical damage, though bladed weapons prove effective (DR 5/slashing).[/info]

     Thedrin remembered back to his training at the academy. "Foul undead... Use magic or edged weapons." He said as he dropped his hammer. He drew his longsword from its sheath as he advanced on the zombies and swung a downward blow at the most damaged of the two.

[info]Move action: move 15 ft and draw longsword.

Standard Action: attack Zombie 1 with longsword[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+4 : 20 + 4, total 24[/blockquote]
   Damage (Slashing)[blockquote]Rolled 1d8+3 : 1 + 3, total 4[/blockquote][/info]

[info] Crit confirmation[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+4 : 5 + 4, total 9[/blockquote][/info]

Thedrin's downward slash caught the zombie full in the crown of its head, cleaving down to the hole that was once a nose. The creature let loose one last rattling gasp before crumpling to the floor, its body still.

[okay]Thedrin attacks Zombie 1, dealing 4 damage and killing it.[/okay]
[info]Cecilia to take turn.[/info]

[spoiler=Combat Info]
Roll20 (https://app.roll20.net/join/5769518/PNxYsg)
Initiative Order: Cecilia, Zombie 1, Zombie 2, Scathach, Rhenri, Thedrin

---

[spoiler=Round 1]Round 1:
Cecilia shoots Zombie 1, 3 damage
Zombie 1 attacks Cecilia, 4 damage
Zombie 2 moves
Scathach shoots Zombie 2, 2 damage
Rhenri shoots Zombie 1, 5 damage
Thedrin attacks Zombie 1, 4 damage
Zombie 1 dies[/spoiler]
Round 2:
[/spoiler]

[info] Cecilia shoots acid dart at zombie 2

[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+2 : 6 + 2, total 8[/blockquote]
[blockquote]Rolled 1d6 : 5, total 5[/blockquote]

The dart goes wide, missing its target by a hair. The zombie, unfazed by Cecilia's attack, and the death of its compatriot raises its dead arms to attack Thedrin. The putrescent appendages, despite being soft with rot, prove an effective cudgel as they deliver a crushing blow to Thedrin's upper body.

Scathach, drops her bow and draws her sword, stepping forward to give Thedrin backup. Bringing the curved blade down in a snapping motion, she catches the zombie in the collarbone, cutting deep.

[error]Cecilia shoots Zombie 2, misses.[/error]
[error]Zombie 2 slams Thedrin, dealing 10 damage.[/error]
[okay]Scathach attacks Zombie 2, a critical hit, dealing 8 damage.[/okay]

[info]Rhenri to act.[/info]

[spoiler=Combat Info]
Roll20 (https://app.roll20.net/join/5769518/PNxYsg)
Initiative Order: Cecilia, Zombie 1, Zombie 2, Scathach, Rhenri, Thedrin

---

[spoiler=Round 1]Round 1:
Cecilia shoots Zombie 1, 3 damage
Zombie 1 attacks Cecilia, 4 damage
Zombie 2 moves
Scathach shoots Zombie 2, 2 damage
Rhenri shoots Zombie 1, 5 damage
Thedrin attacks Zombie 1, 4 damage
Zombie 1 dies[/spoiler]
Round 2:
Cecilia shoots Zombie 2, misses
Zombie 2 attacks Thedrin, 10 damage
Scathach crits Zombie 2, 8 damage
[/spoiler]

---

[info]Free: 5 ft. step forward
Swift: Eye of the Needle
Standard action: Attack

+1 Point Blank +4 Eye of the Needle
[blockquote]ranged attack vs AC 1d20+10 : 9 + 10, total 19[/blockquote]
[blockquote]if hit, piercing 1d8 : 6, total 6[/blockquote]
[blockquote]if hit, fire 1d6 : 2, total 2[/blockquote][/info]

[spoiler=Eye of the Needle Reference]Eye of the Needle
Tempest Gale (Boost)
Level: 1
Initiation Action: 1 swift action
Range: Personal
Target: You
Duration: One round

For most archers, an enemy engaged in melee is a difficult target at best, for a disciple of the Tempest Gale, a smaller target only presents greater opportunity.  After you initiate this boost, your next ranged attack roll this round gains a +4 bonus if the target of the attack is engaged in melee.[/spoiler]

The arrow whips through the tangle of bodies engaged with each other and finds it's mark, a flaming streak that embeds itself in the zombies face. With a soft grunt, more the sound of escaping air than anything resembling human reaction, the animate corpse tumbles to the ground expended.

[okay]Rhenri shoots Zombie 2, dealing 1 piercing and 2 fire damage.[/okay]

[info]Combat over, everyone receives 133 experience.
You are free to resume exploring.[/info]

     Thedrin took out his wand and touched it to his battered body. "Was this wizard a master of the necromantic arts?" He half asked, half wondered aloud as he healed himself.
[info] Expend 1 charge of Wand of Cure Light Wounds[blockquote]Rolled 1d8+1 : 5 + 1, total 6[/blockquote][/info]

[info] Expending another charge[blockquote]Rolled 1d8+1 : 7 + 1, total 8[/blockquote][/info]

Scathach shrugs in response to Thedrin's question. "Maybe? Should we check those bodies?"

Bodies aside, now that you are no longer distracted by combat you can take in the details of the room. Much like the first one, this chamber is also decorated with some ornate carvings on the walls. The room has two exits, besides the door you came in. One to the south, again another wooden door, and to the east another stone doorway without a handle. The stone door also has a glyph etched into it, though it differs from the one in the first room.

     "You may if you wish. The picking over of a battlefield is beneath a knight." Said Thedrin as he walked back to pick his hammer back up. He looked at the second handless door. "Another of these peculiar doors... Wizard? Does the glyph mean anything?" He asked Cynthia as he flicked a bit of rotted skin of his armor that had snagged on it during the battle.

Cecilia approaches the glyphs, getting a closer look at them to see if she can decipher them as she had previously.

[info] Knowledge Arcana:
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+8 : 1 + 8, total 9[/blockquote]

"Yer loss." Scathach said, and began rummaging through what little remained of the zombie's clothes. A few moments later, she stood back up holding two small gold amulets set with green stones. "Could be worth a bit o' gold."

Meanwhile, Cecilia's examination of the runed door proves less than educational. Beyond knowing that the inscribed mark belongs to the same archaic magic notation system, there isn't much else revealed. However, there is an easy to notice hollow below the rune that looks as if it was designed to hold something.

[info]Obtained two gold amulets, identification will be needed to determine price.[/info]

     Thedrin looked over Cecilia's shoulder as she inspected the door. "Perhaps the hole is for a key..." He looked to Scathach. "I don't suppose you've managed to find a key on the bodies?"

"Naw. Just the pendants. Maybe we missed something in the last room?" Scathach replied with a shrug.

---

"Well, while y'all are lookin' to figure that out, that door over yonder's callin' to me." Rhenri stated as she moved southwards towards the wooden door.

[info]Stealth to move quietly
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+8 : 16 + 8, total 24[/blockquote]

Perception for traps on door
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+7 : 9 + 7, total 16[/blockquote]

If no traps are found, Perception through the door to hear what may be on the other side (like putting an ear up to the door)
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+7 : 8 + 7, total 15[/blockquote][/info]

After a search, Rhenri finds a distinct lack of traps. Straining to hear through the wood reveals the sounds of silence on the other side.

     "Perhaps the key is in the possession of the wizard's corpse. Which I hope isn't behind one of these stone doors. It would beg the question how whoever buried the mage managed to get them interred in the first place and then leave without the key. Unless..." He looked to the crumpled zombie bodies. "They didn't." At this he shrugged and once again hefts his hammer onto his shoulder before pushing open the next wooden door.

Beyond the wooden door to the south is another hallway, fairly long, and twisting. At one point it seems to double back on its self a short distance before continuing on to yet another stone door also marked with a new glyph. Like the ones before it, beneath the etching is a small space where an object might fit.

     "More hallway..."  Observed Thedrin as he walked down the corridor. "Such a long walk for so little. I was expecting something a little more grand."

"We dunno what's behind those doors though. Oi still say we missed something."

     "Perhaps, what truly surprises me though is the lack of any evidence this wizard actually did anything. No frescos, no poems listing his deeds inscribed in the walls, no gold, no statues. How do we know this wizard didn't just die reputationless and without a single copper to his name?" Thedrin continued to ponder out loud a he pushed on the next door.

The glyphed door resists Thedrin's attempts to push it, remaining steadfast in its hinge-less frame.

"Maybe he was humble. Strongest folks I know don't usually show off. Anyway, not lookin' like were gonna get through that door or any of the others without a key of soom type."

     Thedrin backtracked to the last room and looked around. "Hmmm..." He hummed as he looked down at the zombie corpses. "Those medallions... You don't suppose... Could I see one?" He asked from Scathach. Taking the medallion he walked up to the room's glyphed door and tried to place the medallion into the keyhole.

"Yeh sure." Scathach answered, handing Thedrin one of the medallions.

Despite attempting as many potential configurations as possible, Thedrin is unable to insert the necklace into the hole in the door. No amount of jamming, twisting, turning, stuffing, or less forceful manipulation works. "Guess its no that. Good thought though."

---

"That dog wudden hunt." Rhenri stated as she sighed and watched Thedrin attempt to place the medallion into the keyhole.

"There was a basin in the first room. Might could be somethin' related with that." She turned towards the mage in the group. "Cecilia you don't happen to be able to detect magic of any sorts?"

"I can detect magical auras, yes. And given enough time discern precisely which items are magical and which are mundane. Would you like me to take a look at the first room?"

     "Perhaps the doors have some magic you can identify. Or maybe that bowl in the first room? Or maybe this is all a lark some old loon put us on and there's nothing actually here." Said Thedrin clearly bored at this point.

Cecilia proceeds to go to the bowl in the first room, and focuses on it while using detect magic.

Once Cecilia begins the spell, she becomes aware of several faint sources of magic in the room. The longer she concentrates however, the more clear it becomes to what the auras belong to. The witchlights that illuminate the room, obviously are magic. The stone door also has a weak aura, which could be expected. The basin in the center of the room also has a faint trace of magic to it, but not enough to be noteworthy.

Curiously though, she could feel the presence of a magic aura emanating from the hole in the wall where the rats had been nesting.

"The magic auras seem to be about what we expected, each door is faintly magical, there is a small trace of magic in the basin which isn't anything of note. Most interesting is that the hole in the wall where our rat friends came from is a magical aura, and we should investigate it further."

With that she went over to take a look at the hole.

Within the hole in the wall, is a cluster of refuse that could only be the nest of the large rats slain earlier. With the former occupants gone, searching it is a trivial task. After a few minutes sifting through shredded parchment, chewed tapestry, the bones of smaller creatures, and the desiccated finger of a human you find a few coins and a palm sized stone cut into an elongated hexagon.

The stone, bears the same rune as the door in this chamber and resonates with a magic aura.

[info]You obtain 3 silver.[/info]

Cecilia walks over to the door that had the socket "Think i found something to help with this."   She inserts the stone into the socket.

Upon setting the stone into the socket, the entire door thrums with power. The low vibration is barely audible but it can be felt reverberating through the floor and in your chest. A moment later the stone slab glides downward, sinking into the floor and seamlessly melds with the flagstone.

Beyond, lies a chamber so small it could hardly be called one at all. A stone basin sits on the opposite wall from the entrance, on the floor beneath it are a few scattered and chewed on pages that could have at one point come from a book or journal.

     "Another basin..." Remarked Thedrin as he walked in to room. "Is this one magical as well?"

As Thedrin approaches the basin, it is evident that another palm sized cut stone rests undisturbed at the bottom. The papers at his feet are marked with writing, though a closer look would be required to see if they can be read.

---

"Well ma'am, looks like we found our bloodhound. That is... with magic instead of course. I reckon we need to find more of these hexagon-shaped stones? Or perhaps that's a key to the rest?" Rhenri asked outloud not really expecting an answer.

The marksman did move towards the now-opened stone door and began to look for any evidence of traps or other dangers as Thedren approached the basin.

[info]Perception into the alcove/room

[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+7 : 4 + 7, total 11[/blockquote][/info]

"Anythin' on those paypers?" Rhenri asked the Thedrin.

[info]Rhenri Perception:
Rhenri's general search reveals nothing more to the room than what has already been seen.[/info]

     "A long lost journal or something I would guess." Thedrin picked up some of the loose papers and looked them over.

After a moment to look them over it is clear that the pages do indeed belong to a journal of some sort. Many of the pages are ruined by the chewing of rodents and the passage of time but there are a few passages that are still legible, though the sections are undated.

Quote"... At long last, my time spent training and in service of the clan has yielded its reward. Finally I have been made a member of the headman's elite guard. Besides the honor that comes with the position, the increase in wage will finally mean Brigit and our son can live comfortably..."

"... A traveling mage has come to pledge himself to the chief today. I have not heard his name before, but the man does possess an impressive talent for magic. His demonstration was enough to earn him a place within the council. It is not my place to question the decision, but several of the elder members seem unhappy with the choice..."

"This is an exciting find! If nothing else we should make sure to bring these writings with us, they could be an important part of history. I'll see if there is anything magical of note in the meantime."

[info]Detect magic again and focusing on anything interesting.

Unsurprisingly after searching the small room for traces of magic, the stone resting at the bottom of the basin radiates a magic aura.

     Thedrin, originally dismissive of the writings, had his interest suddenly piqued. "Interesting... These seem to be the writings of some kind of courtier, a knight or similar station. They mention what I assume to be the wizard. No information on any treasures or secrets of this tomb though. Any luck on your end wizard?" He asked with a look to Cecelia.

"As expected the stone is magical, we just need to find the next place that needs one. I'm sure there will be more items of interest elsewhere."

     "Well let's see... This must be for the other door. So let's head back there." Hypothesized Thedrin as he took the stone from the basin and headed to the next room where they had fought the zombies. "Hopefully this works." He says as he inserts the stone into the hole in the door.

Once the stone was in place this door too hummed with energy before retreating downward into the floor.

Beyond the opening lie another room, about fifteen foot square. Along the wall to the south sat a table upon which rests a small pile of coins, a few sheets of paper, and an iron box. On the north wall is another door, made of wood.

---

[info]Perception for traps or danger

[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+7 : 3 + 7, total 10[/blockquote][/info]

[info]Perception:
The room appears safe.[/info]

     Thedrin walked into the room and took a look around briefly before picking up the papers to have a quick read of them.

The yellowed pages seem to be from the same journal as the ones you found previously. They read as follows:

Quote"... There was a skirmish with the Uighlilin's today. I didn't see any combat personally, nobody got close enough to the headman. I did however witness the destructive power of Amhra's magics from afar. The man wiped out an entire platoon with a ball of fire as big as a house. There was nothing left of the area but blackened earth and the smell of charred flesh. None of the council question him now, his power makes him a valuable military asset as well as its implied threat..."

"... The headman has assigned me as a personal guard of Amhra. I do as my liege asks of me without question, but the mage frightens me terribly. He speaks to himself often, answering voices only he can hear. More and more the man wanders away in the night, telling no one of where he is going. I think I shall follow him in secret next time, his surreptitious nature warrants caution..."

     "Hmmm... Nefarious..."  Murmured Thedrin as he read the papers. "How much coin is there? Anything else there?" He asked as he flipped through the reading.  "I wonder what happened to the journal to have it scattered throughout this tomb."

"Let's see..." Scathach answered, counting out the coins. "Aboyt fifty gold here. Lemme check the box."

After spending a minute poking and prodding at the box in search of hidden traps, Scathach determines it is safe and opens the lid. Inside is a small unlabeled vial of rust colored oil stoppered with a cork.

"What do we have 'ere?" she says, holding up the vial for inspection.

[info]Party gains 50 gold and a vial of "rust colored oil".[/info]

     "A potion perhaps? Wizard, can you tell what it is?" Asked Thedrin as he looked around the room again.

"I'll give it a try. Let's see what this potion is"

[info] Detect magic activated, using spellcraft to examine the bottle of liquid.
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+8 : 6 + 8, total 14[/blockquote]
[/info]

[info]Spellcraft 14:
You are unable to determine the properties of the oil, if any.[/info]

"Sorry, can't tell what this one is, but either way its worth bringing with us."

     "Could be useful nonetheless." Said Thedrin as he stuck the vital into his belt pouch. "Let us move on." He continued as he gripped his hammer and opened the door on the northern end of the room.

Beyond the door, a short hallway proceeds north before hooking west and then south. It terminates in a dead end, where you find once more a basin. As with the one before, there is another keystone resting at the bottom.

     "This must be for the other door." Guessed Thedrin as he took the final stone from its basin before heading back to the last unopened door.

The door slides smoothly downward to meld with the floor, opening up passage into yet another room. The chamber is largely undecorated, two more doors are set in the north wall but that is the least important feature of the space.

Across the room, from the stone chair upon which it rests rises an armor clad skeleton. Cold blue light burns in the empty sockets of its skull, trailing wisps of magic as it moves. It regards you silently as it stands, examining you, judging your strength and motivations. Slowly it picks up the shield that leans against the seat before turning to face you once more. From it's hip it draws a longsword, gleaming in the witchlight and clear of rust.

Oddly, the skeletal knight doesn't charge you. In fact it raises its blade before him as a salute, or perhaps a challenge before falling into a ready stance to wait for your attack.

     Thedrin watched the skeleton. "How... Chivalrous." He said as the skeleton saluted. He returned the salute from the doorway with his hammer. He thought about the journal entries he had read so far. "I am Thedrin Ashewake, knight errant. Do I have the honor of knowing your name good sir knight?"

The skeleton continued to stare at you a moment, behind his raised shield. The searing blue lights burning in the gloom seem to pierce your very soul.

At last there was a noise, strained from ages of disuse and flat, echoing with an unnatural reverberation as a word escaped the skull's unmoving jaw.

"Eiltin..."

---

Rhenri stayed quiet at the exchange, though relaxed her muscles and focused her ki for a potential fight.

[info]Ensure her Stance, Stance of the Piercing Rays, is active.

Look into the room without moving past Thedrin for any other signs of danger apart from the skeleton.

[blockquote]Perception 1d20+7 : 18 + 7, total 25[/blockquote][/info]

[info]Perception 25:
Aside from the well armed skeleton you see no other signs of danger.[/info]

     "Well Eiltin, it would seem your tale ends here. May you fight with honor." Said Thedrin as he stepped into the room and bowed before taking a ready position.

"With honor..." The skeleton knight, Eiltin, replied.

[info]Roll Initiative[/info]

---

[info][blockquote]Initiative 1d20+5 : 12 + 5, total 17[/blockquote][/info]

[info]Initiative[blockquote]Rolled 1d20 : 10, total 10[/blockquote][/info]

[info]
Initiative
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+6 : 15 + 6, total 21[/blockquote]
[/info]

Cecilia steps into the room with much less chivalry than the others. she lines up next to Thedrin and whispers a small apology before launching an acid dart towards the skeleton.

[info] Using Acid Dart at the skeleton warrior fellow. Ranged Touch attack.
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+2 : 11 + 2, total 13[/blockquote]
[blockquote]Rolled 1d6 : 1, total 1[/blockquote]
[/info]

The dart whipped through the air, striking only a glancing blow as the skeletal knight tried to avoid it.

[okay]Cecilia shoots Skeleton Knight, hits, dealing 1 damage.[/okay]
[info]Rhenri to take turn.[/info]

[spoiler=Combat Info]
Roll20 (https://app.roll20.net/join/5769518/PNxYsg)
Initiative Order: Cecilia, Rhenri, Scathach, Skeleton Knight, Thedrin

---

Round 1:
Cecilia shoots SK, 1 damage
[/spoiler]

---

[info]Move: A bit closer
Swift action: Trigger boost Horizon Wind Lancet
Standard action: Attack

+1 Point Blank
[blockquote]Attack vs AC 1d20+6 : 12 + 6, total 18[/blockquote]

+1 Point Blank
[blockquote]Piercing 1d8+1 : 5 + 1, total 6[/blockquote]
[blockquote]Piercing 1d6 : 4, total 4[/blockquote]
[blockquote]Fire 1d6 : 4, total 4[/blockquote][/info]

[spoiler=Horizon Wind Lancet Reference]HORIZON WIND LANCET
Discipline: Solar Wind (Boost)
Level: 1
Initiation Action: 1 swift action
Range: Personal
Target: You
Duration: Instant
The tenets of the Solar Wind have taught the disciple how to place more force behind his attacks. The initiator inflicts an additional 1d6 points of damage on a single ranged attack he makes this round. If the initiator is making multiple attacks in this round, this bonus applies to the first attack the initiator makes.[/spoiler]

Rhenri's flaming arrow streaks through the air, straight on target. However, in a surprisingly deft maneuver the skeleton bats the projectile from the air with its shield, rendering it harmless. In spite of the defensive act he is left open for a moment, allowing Scathach to score a hit with an arrow of her own. Though the effectiveness of the attack is debatable, as it merely chips off a small section of bone.

Ignoring the minor damage from the volley of projectiles, the skeletal knight strides across the room to close the distance between himself and Thedrin. Lashing out with his longsword he cuts horizontally at Thedrin's midsection, only to have the blade turned aside by Thedrin's own shield.

[error]Rhenri shoots Skeletal Knight, misses.[/error]
[okay]Scathach shoots Skeletal Knight, hits, dealing 1 damage.[/okay]
[okay]Skeletal Knight attacks Thedrin, misses.[/okay]
[info]Thedrin to take turn.[/info]

[spoiler=Combat Info]
Roll20 (https://app.roll20.net/join/5769518/PNxYsg)
Initiative Order: Cecilia, Rhenri, Scathach, Skeleton Knight, Thedrin

---

Round 1:
Cecilia shoots SK, 1 damage
Rhenri shoots SK, miss
Scathach shoots SK, 1 damage
SK attacks Thedrin, miss
[/spoiler]

     Thedrin hesitated on striking back with the odds so against the knight. He stared into the skeleton's sockets, looking to see if there was any nobility left in the knight.

[info]Move Action: Detect evil on the skeleton

Free Action: Knowledge (Religion) to see if I can identify their stats[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+4 : 3 + 4, total 7[/blockquote][/info]

The skeleton locked "eyes" with Thedrin as combat raged around it. The faintest aura of darkness was detectable, radiating weakly from the animate bones.

"Free... Me... Free me from this hell!" The impassioned plea reverberated through the room, breaking the previously flat tone that the knight had spoken with before.

[info]Knowledge: Religion
You are unable to recall any information pertaining to this creature.[/info]

     "Then free you I shall!" Announced Thedrin as he raised his hammer over his head, a faint nimbus of light dimly emitting from its head. He brought the hammer down, hoping to batter through the skeleton's guard if not its whole rib cage.

[info]Swift Action: use Smite Evil on Skeleton Knight

Standard Action: Attack Skeleton knight with warhammer[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+8 : 9 + 8, total 17[/blockquote]Damage (bludgeoning)[blockquote]Rolled 1d8+5 : 7 + 5, total 12[/blockquote][/info]

"UUUURRAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAGHH!!!" The skeletal knight, Eiltin, roared as he brought his shield up to stop Thedrin's holy stroke. Retaining the prowess he must have had in life, his shield did not fail him and turned the blow aside with a resounding crash.

"MORE!" the skeleton bellowed. "YOU MUST BE FASTER! STRONGER! HONOR DEMANDS IT!"

[error]Thedrin attacks Skeletal Knight, misses.[/error]
[info]Cecilia to take turn.[/info]

[spoiler=Combat Info]
Roll20 (https://app.roll20.net/join/5769518/PNxYsg)
Initiative Order: Cecilia, Rhenri, Scathach, Skeleton Knight, Thedrin

---

[spoiler=Round 1]Round 1:
Cecilia shoots SK, 1 damage
Rhenri shoots SK, miss
Scathach shoots SK, 1 damage
SK attacks Thedrin, miss
Thedrin attacks SK, miss[/spoiler]
Round 2:
[/spoiler]

Cecilia continued her magical assault, launching another dart.
[info] Acid Dart ranged touch attack.
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+2 : 11 + 2, total 13[/blockquote]
[blockquote]Rolled 1d6 : 6, total 6[/blockquote]
[/info]

Cecilia's acid dart finds its mark, splashing on an exposed section of Eiltin's skeletal body and begins to burn away at the bone.

"Again!"

[okay]Cecilia shoots Skeleton Knight, hits, 6 damage.[/okay]
[info]Rhenri to take turn.[/info]

[spoiler=Combat Info]
Roll20 (https://app.roll20.net/join/5769518/PNxYsg)
Initiative Order: Cecilia, Rhenri, Scathach, Skeleton Knight, Thedrin

---

[spoiler=Round 1]Round 1:
Cecilia shoots SK, 1 damage
Rhenri shoots SK, miss
Scathach shoots SK, 1 damage
SK attacks Thedrin, miss
Thedrin attacks SK, miss[/spoiler]
Round 2:
Cecilia shoots SK, 6 damage
[/spoiler]

---

Rhenri focused her inner Ki once again, breathing in deeply as what had been taught her. The skeleton's defenses were tight, so she honed her senses towards the re-slaying of this skeletal warrior. Every slight movement from the skeleton and every moment in time was almost tangible to the archer. She imagined how and where the skeleton would move once she unleashed her arrow; all she needed to do was aim.

[info]Move: 10 ft. West
Swift action: Murderous Insight, Ki points remaining: 2 of 3.
Standard action: Attack

Active Buffs: Stance of the Piercing Rays, Murderous Insight (4 rounds remaining)

+1 Point Blank
[blockquote]Attack vs AC 1d20+6 : 6 + 6, total 12[/blockquote]
[blockquote]Attack vs AC 1d20+6 : 4 + 6, total 10[/blockquote]
[blockquote]Piercing 1d8+1 : 2 + 1, total 3[/blockquote]
[blockquote]Fire 1d6 : 1, total 1[/blockquote][/info]

[spoiler=Murderous Insight Reference]Murderous Insight (Su):

The stalker designates his combat senses towards ending the lives of his opponents and gains momentary flashes of insight in how to best accomplish this. By spending one point of ki as a swift action, the stalker makes an attack and rolls twice for that attack and uses the better of the two results due to the stalker's precognitive abilities. This art has a duration of 1 + the stalker's Wisdom modifier in rounds.[/spoiler]

Noticing Rhenri's arrow, the knight swiped backwards with his longsword knocking the arrow astray. Firing nearly at the same time, Scathach also loosed an arrow, but it plinked harmlessly off the skeleton, failing to make an impact.

Continuing to ignore the mostly harmless ranged assault Eiltin hammered down a crushing blow on Thedrin, making a wicked cut into his forearm.

[error]Rhenri shoots Skeleton Knight, misses.[/error]
[warning]Scathach shoots Skeleton Knight, hits, deals no damage.[/warning]
[error]Skeleton Knight attacks Thedrin, hits, 7 damage.[/error]
[info]Thedrin to take turn.[/info]

[spoiler=Combat Info]
Roll20 (https://app.roll20.net/join/5769518/PNxYsg)
Initiative Order: Cecilia, Rhenri, Scathach, Skeleton Knight, Thedrin

---

[spoiler=Round 1]Round 1:
Cecilia shoots SK, 1 damage
Rhenri shoots SK, miss
Scathach shoots SK, 1 damage
SK attacks Thedrin, miss
Thedrin attacks SK, miss[/spoiler]
Round 2:
Cecilia shoots SK, 6 damage
Rhenri shoots SK, miss
Scathach shoots SK, 0 damage
SK attacks Thedrin, 7 damage
[/spoiler]

     "Sorcery seems the most effective attack so far." Grunted Thedrin as he took the skeleton's blow and tried to counter attack with a low swing into its femur as he edged around the Knight.

[info]Move Action: Combat Advice to give Cecelia +2 to hit Skelton Knight

Free Action: 5 ft step

Standard Action: Attack Skeleton Knight with hammer[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+8 : 9 + 8, total 17[/blockquote]    Damage (Bludgeoning)[blockquote]Rolled 1d8+5 : 8 + 5, total 13[/blockquote][/info]

The knight circled his longsword wide to parry Thedrin's swing, preventing it from connecting.

[error]Thedrin attacks Skeletal Knight, misses.[/error]
[info]Cecilia to take turn.[/info]

[spoiler=Combat Info]
Roll20 (https://app.roll20.net/join/5769518/PNxYsg)
Initiative Order: Cecilia, Rhenri, Scathach, Skeleton Knight, Thedrin

---

[spoiler=Round 1]Round 1:
Cecilia shoots SK, 1 damage
Rhenri shoots SK, miss
Scathach shoots SK, 1 damage
SK attacks Thedrin, miss
Thedrin attacks SK, miss[/spoiler]
[spoiler=Round 2]Round 2:
Cecilia shoots SK, 6 damage
Rhenri shoots SK, miss
Scathach shoots SK, 0 damage
SK attacks Thedrin, 7 damage
Thedrin attacks SK, miss[/spoiler]
Round 3:
[/spoiler]

Cecilia steps forward and draws her quarter staff. She swings at the skeleton knight, trying to provide Thedrin with an advantage.

[info] 5 foot step, draw quarter staff, swing.
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+2 : 17 + 2, total 19[/blockquote]
damage [blockquote]Rolled 1d6 : 2, total 2[/blockquote]
[/info]

The staff thunked harmlessly against the skeleton's armor, barely registering a response from the creature.

[error]Cecilia attacks Skeleton Knight, misses.[/error]
[info]Rhenri to take turn.[/info]

[spoiler=Combat Info]
Roll20 (https://app.roll20.net/join/5769518/PNxYsg)
Initiative Order: Cecilia, Rhenri, Scathach, Skeleton Knight, Thedrin

---

[spoiler=Round 1]Round 1:
Cecilia shoots SK, 1 damage
Rhenri shoots SK, miss
Scathach shoots SK, 1 damage
SK attacks Thedrin, miss
Thedrin attacks SK, miss[/spoiler]
[spoiler=Round 2]Round 2:
Cecilia shoots SK, 6 damage
Rhenri shoots SK, miss
Scathach shoots SK, 0 damage
SK attacks Thedrin, 7 damage
Thedrin attacks SK, miss[/spoiler]
Round 3:
Cecilia attacks SK, miss
[/spoiler]

---

Rhenri focused on the melee between those up on the front. It would be difficult to aim to be sure, but focusing with her Ki would hopefully compensate for that particular lack of training. She took a few seconds to both aim and judge where the target would move next, then let loose her next burning arrow.

[info]Move: 10 ft. West
Swift action: Eye of the Needle
Standard action: Attack

Active Buffs: Stance of the Piercing Rays, Murderous Insight (3 rounds remaining), Eye of the Needle (1 round remaining)

+1 Point Blank, +4 Eye of the Needle, no penalties due to any cover/firing into melee applied
[blockquote]Attack vs AC 1d20+10 : 14 + 10, total 24[/blockquote]
[blockquote]Attack vs AC 1d20+10 : 19 + 10, total 29[/blockquote]
[blockquote]Piercing 1d8+1 : 7 + 1, total 8[/blockquote]
[blockquote]Fire 1d6 : 1, total 1[/blockquote]

[spoiler=Eye of the Needle Reference]Eye of the Needle
Tempest Gale (Boost)
Level: 1
Initiation Action: 1 swift action
Range: Personal
Target: You
Duration: One round

For most archers, an enemy engaged in melee is a difficult target at best, for a disciple of the Tempest Gale, a smaller target only presents greater opportunity.  After you initiate this boost, your next ranged attack roll this round gains a +4 bonus if the target of the attack is engaged in melee.[/spoiler]

The flaming arrow solidly connected with the back of the skeleton knights unprotected skull, making a satisfying 'thwack'. Before the flames petered out, a small portion of the bone had singed and cracked.

"YES, SOON!" Eiltin roared, the sound echoing in the chamber along with the sounds of battle.

Scathach, attempting to make dodging Thedrin's next attack harder for the skeleton, dropped her bow and shifted into a flanking position, drawing her scimitar. Lashing out with the curved blade she tried for a succession of strikes but failed to land any with effect.

Slowed by the mounting damage to its body, or perhaps distracted defending against Scathach's attack, The skeleton slashes viciously at Thedrin but a timely swipe of his shield stops the blade.

[okay]Rhenri shoots Skeleton Knight, dealing 4 damage.[/okay]
[error]Scathach attacks Skeleton Knight, misses.[/error]
[okay]Skeleton Knight attacks Thedrin, misses.[/okay]
[info]Thedrin to take turn.[/info]

[spoiler=Combat Info]
Roll20 (https://app.roll20.net/join/5769518/PNxYsg)
Initiative Order: Cecilia, Rhenri, Scathach, Skeleton Knight, Thedrin

---

[spoiler=Round 1]Round 1:
Cecilia shoots SK, 1 damage
Rhenri shoots SK, miss
Scathach shoots SK, 1 damage
SK attacks Thedrin, miss
Thedrin attacks SK, miss[/spoiler]
[spoiler=Round 2]Round 2:
Cecilia shoots SK, 6 damage
Rhenri shoots SK, miss
Scathach shoots SK, 0 damage
SK attacks Thedrin, 7 damage
Thedrin attacks SK, miss[/spoiler]
Round 3:
Cecilia attacks SK, miss
Rhenri shoots SK, 4 damage
Scathach attacks SK, miss
SK attacks Thedrin, miss
[/spoiler]

     "Yes, encircle them, strike where they're weakest." Thedrin said as he tried to take advantage of Scathach's attack from behind.

[info]Move Action: Combat Advice to give Scathach +2 to attack Skelton Knight

Standard Action: attack Skelton Knight[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+10 : 18 + 10, total 28[/blockquote]     Damage (Bludgeoning)[blockquote]Rolled 1d8+5 : 2 + 5, total 7[/blockquote][/info]

Scathach nods in agreement, but further strategy proves unnecessary... Thedrin's hammer blow finally finds its target, crushing the skeleton's ancient rusting breastplate and shattering the bones beneath.

Eiltin lets out a gasp, odd for a creature that does not breathe, and drops to his knees. The dark magics that bind his soul to his bones visibly begins to unravel as the blue lights in the sockets of his skull dim. "Thank... you..." he rasps and raises his sword hilt first. "My blade... take it..."

"Brigit, I come for you... at last..."

The last vestiges of magic dissipate and what is left of Eiltin's skeleton crumbles to a fine powder, leaving only his crumpled armor, his longsword, and another keystone like the ones you found before.

[info]Encounter over.
Party gains 200 exp each.
Loot:
Masterwork Longsword[/info]

     The battle over, Thedrin took out his wand and healed himself of the damage caused by the knight's blade.
[info] Expending 1 charge of Wand of Cure Light Wounds [blockquote]Rolled 1d8+1 : 2 + 1, total 3[/blockquote][/info]

     He then picked up the offending weapon and looked it over. It was a decent blade, remarkably well preserved despite the time it likely endured, likely superior still compared to the sword he kept at his own hip. "If it's alright, I'd like the sword. It is a knight's weapon so belongs at the side of one."

---

"Felt like he was talkin' to you anyways," Rhenri shrugged as she turned her attention to the exits.

[info]Looking for exits of the room
[blockquote]Perception 1d20+7 : 15 + 7, total 22[/blockquote]

Trap search on exits
[blockquote]Perception 1d20+7 : 20 + 7, total 27[/blockquote]

Second one just in case for trap searching
[blockquote]Perception 1d20+7 : 2 + 7, total 9[/blockquote][/info]

The two doors on the north wall are nearly identical smooth stoned barriers, much like the ones you have encountered elsewhere in the barrow. Both have a niche where a keystone can be inserted, and both have a rune carved into them that match the one on the stone taken from the skeleton. However, on close inspection the door on the left has an additional faintly carved string of runes along one edge, it is most certainly a trap. The door on the right however, appears safe.

---

"Dowar on the left is most certainly trapped." Rhenri said, eyeing the carved string of runes. She briefly thought about disabling it but shook her head eventually. Seeing it was one thing, but disabling it was another matter especially. More than likely she would set it off.

"Cecilia, yownt to look at this? If it dudden look too dangerous, I'spose I can give it a shot on disablin' it... Would prefer not to, I cain't say I'd trust myself with it."

Her old profession did involve traps, though this was her first time encountering a magical one. Apart from the tips and tricks her mentor had taught her, she doubted she would be able to disable this one completely.

"I can try to give it a look over, though I doubt I will be able to deactivate it, I may be able to figure out something about the type of magic, and if it would be worth the risk of triggering it." Cecilia approached the door to investigate.

[info] using detect magic and focusing as long as needed.

spellcraft [blockquote]Rolled 1d20+8 : 9 + 8, total 17[/blockquote]
[/info]

After examining the door and its secondary set of runes for an extended period of time, you are no closer to understanding its function than you were when you began. At most, you understand that there is a spell infused in the door, different than the one that serves to open it, and that it is potentially harmful.

"Maybe we can ignore it. The other door was safe right?" Scathach chimes in after watching you work.

     "Maybe... Or maybe the wizard's treasure is behind that door. Why else would they place their magics on it?" Thedrin looked to the others and pulled out his wand. "Do any of you know how to use this?"

---

Rhenri shook her head towards Thedrin. Shortly after that, she made her way to the other non-trapped door, holding her bow out in case she needed it. She began to listen through the door, to see if there were any obvious sounds from the other side.

[info]Listen for anything beyond the other door.
[blockquote]Perception 1d20+7 : 4 + 7, total 11[/blockquote][info]

"I ought to be able to use it, but do you know what the wand does?

[info]Perception:
You hear nothing from the other side of the door.[/info]

     "It heals minor injuries. See?" Said Thedrin as he activated the wand again.

[info] Expending another charge of Wand of Cure Light Wounds[blockquote]Rolled 1d8+1 : 8 + 1, total 9[/blockquote][/info]
     "If I should be felled by the sorcery of the door I'll need you to use this to heal me." He said as he handed the wand to the wizard. "Can you do that?"

"Not sure that this is the wisest of plans but sure, I can use a wand. Have at it, brave knight."

     Thedrin raised his shield. He knew that plenty of the aristocracy in his homeland employed wizards to devise cunning magical defenses for their family vaults and mausoleums. He also knew that beyond those traps lay plenty of treasure. He felt somewhat craven to be graverobbing in such a fashion but with no inheritance to fund his future house he would need this wizard's wealth. "Okay... I suggest you all stand back." He took the keystone and tried to open the door.

As soon as the keystone slid into place the secondary runes on the door flared purple and a wave of negative energy flashed up Thedrin's arm and radiated to his chest.

Thedrin felt his heart seize in his chest and fail to beat for an agonizing thirty seconds. Several of which he was unable to think clearly as his body went into shock. "Oh FUCK!" Scathach exclaimed.

Finally the energy dissipated, leaving Thedrin very near death, but still standing.

[error]Trap activates, Thedrin takes 10 damage and was staggered for 1 round.[/error]

The door then slid slowly into the floor.

Cecilia follows through on her end of the deal, and uses the wand on Thedrin.

[info] Using UMD to use the wand.
[blockquote]Rolled 1d20+5 : 10 + 5, total 15[/blockquote]
[blockquote]Rolled 1d8+1 : 5 + 1, total 6[/blockquote]
[/info]

     Thedrin was floored by the magical assault and gasped as the healing took. He stood up and dusted himself off, coughing as he looked around. "Well... door's open." He said as he took his wand back before heading for the open door.

Scathach gave a small snort by way of amusement then followed through the door.

Through the opening was another hallway, to the right it continued on another ten feet and terminated in a wall. You could see that the other door from the room with the skeleton knight would have opened into this passage as well.

To the right the hallway continued, hooking around to the south and ending at another door; this one was made of plain wood and had no locks or other distinguishing features.

---

[info]Look for traps in the hallway as she moves along to the door.
[blockquote]Perception 1d20+7 : 19 + 7, total 26[/blockquote]

Look for traps on the next door itself
[blockquote]Perception 1d20+7 : 19 + 7, total 26[/blockquote][/info]

[info]Perception:
There are no traps in either the hallway, or on the door.[/info]

     "Well... that's a disappointment... What must the purpose of that trap been? " Said Thedrin looking at the hallway as he walked to the next door.

"Fifty-fifty chance of catching some poor sod unawares if they managed to beat the skeleton I guess." said Scathach, following along.

Beyond the wooden door is another small chamber, probably the last one in the barrow as it has no discernible exits. Within, you find a wooden chest, and a stone sarcophagus covered in ornate carvings.

---

[info]Look around in the room for anything dangerous
[blockquote]Perception 1d20+7 : 5 + 7, total 12[/blockquote][/info]

If needed, and no initial traps found, look for traps on chest
[blockquote]Perception 1d20+7 : 7 + 7, total 14[/blockquote]

If needed, and no initial traps found, look for traps on sarcophagus
[blockquote]Perception 1d20+7 : 2 + 7, total 9[/blockquote][/info]

A search of the room, the chest, and the sarcophagus reveals no traps. The chest is locked however, but it looks of mundane design and potentially breakable.

     Thedrin tested the lid of the chest.  "Do you think you can open this without damaging its contents?" He asked with a look to Rhenri.

---

"Cain't hurt to try." Rhenri said as she pulled out her thieves' tools.

[info]Unlock the lock.
[blockquote]Disable Device 1d20+8 : 3 + 8, total 11[/blockquote]

If fail and no repercussions on failing, taking 20 to spend the next few minutes attempting to open it.[/info]

After a few attempts the lock finally pops open allowing the chest to open. Within you find a bag full of coinage and gems, and several sheets of paper that look like they probably came from the same journal as the others you found.

Quote"... Tonight I followed Ahmra out into the steppe. It seems that he has constructed himself a sanctum of some kind beneath a great mound of earth. The entrance is warded with some kind of sigil..."

"... A NECROMANCER! The man profanes the dead by raising them with magic! I followed him a second time tonight to his lair and saw him reanimating corpses in the moonlight. I must warn the headman of who this monster really is! I only hope he did not see me follow, I am sure I was as quiet as I could be, still I thought I saw him look toward the grasses I was hiding in..."

"Poor man, oi guess he ended up getting caught..." Scathach said, after reading the pages. "Should we check that out?" She points to the sarcophagus.

[info]The party acquires 200 gold in coins and mixed gemstones.[/info]

     "While I think the necromancer's corpse deserves no respect. Perhaps we should check it for sorcery? Who knows what they might have done to protect their body."

"Let me take a look. Never know what we could find and this is the reason that we are here, is it not?" Cecilia approaches the sarcophagus, scanning it for any traces of magic.

[info] Detect magic stuff again.[/info]

After considerable concentration Cecilia finds no enchantments or traces of magic on the sarcophagus, or in its immediate area.

"Looks to be clear of any magics at least. Let's see what's inside. Someone want to help me with the lid?" Cecilia positioned herself to start moving the lid of the sarcophagus

     "Yes, let us see what this necromancer actually looks like after all these years." Says Thedrin, adjusting his gloves and moving to push the lid off the sarcophagus.

With some effort, the heavy stone lid slides free from the stone charnel with a laborious grinding sound. Once open the contents of the tomb are laid bare...

A single, deteriorating grimoire.

"Am oi mistaken, or shouldn't there be a body in there?" Scathach says with confusion, and a bit of concern.

     "All this just to guard a book..."  Said Thedrin as he took up the book. "Apparently not even magical..." He said as he flipped through the pages.

The book in question, as Thedrin flipped through it, was mostly ruined. The pages eaten by time, ink faded to illegibility, the cover was mostly unadorned aside from a small marking on the bottom corner that looked like a name.

As the pages tumbled over though, one or two were still in good condition and readable. The markings looked like spellwork, or at least something to that effect.

"Let me take a look at that, could be the old wizard's spellbook." Cecilia reached out and took the book from Thedrin to leaf through it for herself.

From what you can gather, the grimoire is indeed a spellbook. Though most of the pages are impossible to decipher due to degradation, you are able to find two spells that are intact enough to be studied.

[info]From this book you can learn:

Stricken Heart, 2nd level, Necromancy

One 1st level spell of your choice from your school[/info]

"Ah it's a shame that I couldn't have seen this book in its complete form but I should be able to learn a couple of tricks from this. Shall we return to the surface?"

[info]School spell will be summon monster I

"Not much left down here, s'pose we might as well." Scathach replied. "Though I can't help but feel uneasy about the missing corpse of a necromancer. S'pecially one that was supposed to be so strong."

[info]This is essentially the end of the dungeon. Resuming the main thread, feel free to continue any RP if desired.

The party gains 277 exp for exploring the barrow.[/info]

     "Perhaps their lord caught onto their secret and had the sense to burn them at the stake before they had the chance to even be laid to rest in this tomb." Guessed Thedrin with a little sigh as he poured his share of the gold coin and gems into his coin purse. It was a relief to once again feel a weight to it that he was a little more accustomed to but it was still a paltry sum to what he had hoped for. "If there's nothing left, let us make for the surface. I think that this has been enough scrounging around in the gloom for one day."