DM Kent d100=25 d100=21 Tuesday September 24th, 2002 8:25:28 AM
(sorry about no post yesterday, cablevision folks cut my phonelines) (the part about the horses being eaten was comic relief; [I was very tired when I was posting]
Olanna makes her forray out into the outside world and after a bit of investigation and two very close shaves she locates the two groups. From her observations and some basic common sense, it currently appears that both broups are tracking each other and will continue to cirle each other for a while unless something happens to change someones path.
The rest of the talons remain in the cave and are still faced with several things. The door, the hole, and the now smelly pile of ooze.
Lian d20+16=32 Tuesday September 24th, 2002 3:17:03 PM
Lian sits, nursing a bruise on his shoulder.
"I hope Olana does not lead the orcs back here. When she returns, I think we should find out what is inside the hole." The monk looks at the Talons. "Can anyone cast a LIGH SPELL on this plain arrow for me?" (OOC:My plan: shoot into hole with light arrow)
(How deep did the hole look? Was it too dark to see the depth? (elven low-light vision see the bottom?) Where there sounds in the hole (Listen of 32)? Does the hole go up, down, sideways or some other way?)
Olana d20+13=22 d20+13=19 d20+11=19 Tuesday September 24th, 2002 6:30:27 PM
The elf returns swiftly and quietly and gives her report as to what is happening outside.
She then checks the door beyond the now squishy blob on the floor, at first listening, then if she feels its safe will attempt to open it. (LISTEN DC 22 OPEN LOCK DC 19 DISABLE DEVICE DC 19))
Figment Tuesday September 24th, 2002 6:59:14 PM
The mage pulls out a couple of torches he always seems to carry (Continual Flame is cast on them). "These should do the trick...". He follows the others as they explore the area. He mulls over his spells as the last fight drained a lot of his choice, close range firepower.
K'Nara Wednesday September 25th, 2002 6:39:22 AM
K'Nara (whose words posted here over the last three days have mysteriously NOT appeared!) saw that Milo had the means to heal up his wounds and so replaced her backpack. Then she jabbed the tip of her sword experimentally at the newly-uncovered door in order to make sure that it, too, was NOT another shapechanger.
"Someone check out that hole..." the tall redhead ordered absently, "...there was something about fifty or fifty-five feet down or so.."
dm kent Wednesday September 25th, 2002 7:21:19 PM
K'nara finds the door is normal this time. Olanna finds that the door is locked but not trapped and easily feels the lock give as she fiddles with it. Lian and Figment check out the whole and with the torches find that what was glittering 55 feet down was water.
Olanna opens the door after being as sure as she can that there is no noise from behind the door. After opening the door and stepping inside she lets her eyes adjust and is just able to make out the shape of what could be cots and possibly a chest or trunk. As she steps in she kicks something that rattles and scatter around. As she looks down she sees that there several sets of fairly old bones surrounding her feet.
Figment Wednesday September 25th, 2002 8:19:00 PM
The mage looks around the water for anything else of interest. He tries to determine how deep the water is and if there is anything to see below its surface.
Olana d20+13=25 d20+11=12 d20+10=15 Wednesday September 25th, 2002 8:49:45 PM
The elf lets everyone know what she has discovered.
"There's bones here, some cots and possibly a trunk. If no one minds, I'll take a quick look."
She moves quietly across the room, keeping her eyes open for any obvious traps. Taking a dagger, she pokes the trunk, as K'Nara did with the door... just in case. If nothing happens, she crouches and examines it for locks traps etc etc. (OPEN LOCK DC25 DISABLE DEVICE DC12 SEARCH DC15)
Lian d20+14=20 d20+16=22 d20+4=9 Thursday September 26th, 2002 7:02:30 AM
Lian moves silently into the room (20) and listens as he goes (22) for any sounds that are obviously not made by the Talons. He goes to the cots and lifts up blanket or two to see what he might find (Search of 9). He'll look underneath the cots as well.
"I do not see any hatches or trap doors here. I wonder what this place was? A barracks? Thieves hide out? Orc outpost? The bones, what race or species are they, Olana?"
Milo Thursday September 26th, 2002 9:47:06 AM
Milo moves in quietly behind Olana, allowing his eyes to adjust as he goes. Realizing that the darkness, is quite enough for him, he casts light and stands behind the elf as she works on the lock, ready to give any assistance if she has trouble with it. "Let me know if you need any help with that Olana."
(OOC: Sorry for missing a post or two guys... my wife's grandmother died, and I've been working on getting her up to Alaska for the services.)
kent d100=100 d20+7=8 19d6(3+3+3+3+2+5+4+4+6+1+3+1+2+1+1+1+4+6+5)=58 Thursday September 26th, 2002 7:49:31 PM
Figment decides that the hole is a well and there is no telling how deep the water is or if there is anything below the waters surface.
Lian, being as careful as he can be, hears nothing and finds that as he touches the blankets they turn to dust, but finds nothing else of interest.
K'nara and Ingrge enter the room and watch the others as they search and open. they notice several shiny bits hidden underneath the bones etc by the door.
Olanna nearly giggles at how easily the chest's lock opens up, but the giggle turns into a gasp and a muttered curse as there is a flash of fire followed nearly immediately by 6 additional simultaneous explosions that totally engulf the room. [Olanna and Milo are caught flatfooted, no dex bonus, K'nara, Ingrge, and Lian make regular saves. Reflex DC 14 - fail 58 points, save 29]
Figment Thursday September 26th, 2002 9:12:58 PM
The mage sighs as he walks back to the others. Assuming nobody is dead he says "Hang on a minue guys...". He casts detect magic and scans the area fr any additional 'magical suprises'.
Milo d20+12=28 Thursday September 26th, 2002 11:15:44 PM
Milo's hair trigger reflexes allow him to completely avoid the bursts of flame issuing from the chest. After which, he immediately rushes to Olana's side to assess any damage that she has taken from the magical trap.
(OOC: Uncanny dodge makes it so Milo cannot get caught flat-footed, however, if you still insist on deducting my Dex bonus from my Reflex save, I still hit DC 24. Evasion allows Milo to avoid all damage.)
Olana (Evasion, Uncanny Dodge) d20+9=12 d20+9=13 Friday September 27th, 2002 12:36:22 AM
(Uh oh.... I even re-rolled on a hero point.)
As soon as it becomes apparent something's wrong Olana yells a warning cry and attempts to duck - fast... but not fast enough.
She catches the full blast and topples backward in a smouldering heap, where she lies unmoving. (-3)
Lian (at 0 of 39 points) d20+9=12 d20+9=25 Friday September 27th, 2002 1:49:10 AM
OOC:Failed save (DC 12), used last hero point making DC 25.
Lian is scortched severely (taking 29 points of fire damage). Staggering around like a drunk human in a bar brawl, Lian finds himself flat on his back and can't move an inch. The monk stares staight up at the ceiling, his blonde hair burnt and crumbling. His monk gear burnt to cinder.
"OuuucccH!! Is THAT how it feels to get hit by a fireball full blast??!!" Moans the elf. "Someone heal me PLEASE! I do not normally beg, but I will start soon. Ooooohh, that hurt."
OOC: Yes ladies and gentlemen, Lian WASN'T fully healed from the door attack.
K'Nara d20+8=22 Friday September 27th, 2002 7:31:01 AM
K'Nara knelt and flicked the bits of bones away from the shiny bits, wondering what was under the bony stuff. Upon hearing Olana's gasp, however, her instincts kicked in and the human bladesinger threw herself flat just as the magic firetrap was triggered (OOC: made the save with a 22.)
"YeeeOW!" she cried, then levered herself up to look at the now-crispy surroundings. "Is everyone okay..?" However, seeing Olana lying there with wisps of smoke rising from her body, prompted the leader of the Talons to swear mightily and ask Milo if he needed those potions for Olana..?
Lian Friday September 27th, 2002 7:35:28 AM
"How is Ingrge?! Is he okay?!" the elven monk says with panic in his voice. "I can not believe well fell into this trap. I suspect that explosion was heard at great distance."
ingrge d20+5=22 Friday September 27th, 2002 6:31:44 PM
having been only semi aware of what olanna was doing, Ingrge had little warning of what was about to happen but somehow managed to partially shield himself from the full effects of the blast that engulfed the room. [save DC 22] pulling himself up off the floor, Ingrge is singed but standing.
DM Kent Friday September 27th, 2002 6:50:59 PM
[OOC until a rogue is 11th level, uncanny dodge only adds to AC vs actual attacks, and while evasion would in fact under normal circumstances cut the damage to none for a successful save, the room was totally engulfed leaving no way to avoid the flames, the room is barely 30ft in diameter where the fireballs filled an area of 40ft diameter. In the interest of fairness saves made by folk with evasion will only take 1/4 damage 14 points]
[so damage as I have it is Olanna 58, Ingrge and K'nara 29 and Milo and Lian 14, Figment 0]
Figment comes running and finds nothing else of magical nature in the room except for what each of the talons owns. underneath the bones and other detritus 50 silver pieces are found and inthe remains of the charred chest can be found an amorphous puddle of cooling gold mixed with some glsss shards.
Lian is looking pretty bad, Ingrge has seen better days as have K'nara and Milo but Olanna is lying on the floor unmoving.
Milo 3d8(2+7+5)+5=19 Saturday September 28th, 2002 12:58:23 AM
Milo bends over Olana, and checks for breathing, as he pulls a potion from his satchel, and prepares to feed it to the injured elf. Milo moves frenetically, as if hoping against hope that she can be saved. (OOC: If Olana is not out and out dead, Milo carefully trickles his potion of cure serious wounds down her throat. 19 hps healing)
Lian d20+16=20 d20+6=15 Saturday September 28th, 2002 1:42:45 AM
The elven monk slowly stands and brushes the hair out of his face; his blonde hair is burnt and brittle and falls to the floor. Portions of the elfs head are blistered and balding, other parts are like it had never been touched by fire. He quickly braids portions of hair that aren't burnt, then with borrowed dagger or other sharp item, he shaves his head bald, with only the three or four braids remaining. The rather dignified elf is more or less bald now. With his clothes, tattered and ribbon-like, the monk removes his burnt monk garb and replaces it with his traveling outfit. He discards the monk outfit. "Ummm... when we are able to, we need to leave this place! I do not wish to search any further." Lian looks nervously around the room and out the door.
OOC: He's paranoid now, Listen Check of 20 (his ears are ringing), and a Spot of 15.
Olana Monday September 30th, 2002 1:46:17 AM
Milo's potion passes beyond Olana's lips. If she is able to swallow it, then she begins to come around, awakening slowly, blackened skin starting to soften, consciousness beginning to stir.
Figment Monday September 30th, 2002 1:54:46 AM
The mage helps the others in binding wounds or making them comfortable. He waits to see what happens to Olana and Lian.
K'Nara 2d8(8+6)+1=15 Monday September 30th, 2002 7:30:41 AM
This time K'Nara was not dissuaded--she passed one of her more efficacious potions to Milo, that the cleric/rogue could use it on Olana. (OOC: it's a Cure Moderate Wounds potion; rolled a 15 for the amount of hit points cured.)
"Whomever stayed here was obviously very jealous of his...or her...possessions." the fighter pointed out the obvious. "First that shapechanging freak for a guard dog, and now THIS!"
ingrge Monday September 30th, 2002 8:18:21 PM
Ingrge chuckles at K'naras comment and then as if it hurts him to speak [which it does he's down 36 points]he comments. ' I suspect that the mimic came later. I think that maybe we are standing among the inhabitants remains right here, pointing at the bones around K'nara's and his feet. As for the chest, I expect the simple fire trap caused something else quite magical to ignite and explode.' So what's our next move.
DM Kent d100=1 Monday September 30th, 2002 8:25:02 PM
Between the 2 potions olanna gets 34 hps returned.
As Lian looks around he spots something strange occuring on the cieling. As he looks closer he sees several large cracks spreading out from the rooms 12 foot ceilings and some small clumps of dirt start falling to the floor. A fter the first few clumps fall the dirts starts falling fairly rapidly. The ceiling seems to be bowing inward.
Figment Monday September 30th, 2002 10:46:31 PM
"Uh, guys. I'd say the blast weakened the ceiling. We'd better be leaving about now...". He moves quickly to the horses and begins leading them out of the cave. "Better to risk orcs than being buried alive...".
Lian Tuesday October 1st, 2002 2:16:00 AM
"Friends! Move! The ceiling is coming down! I wish Bertram was here. Dwarfs! Move."
Lian waits for the red-headed leader of the Talons to move, then he will move in the direction K'nara goes. He's on her heels.
K'Nara Tuesday October 1st, 2002 6:50:47 AM
K'Nara grimaced herself at Ingrge's observations--not so much at the comments as she, too, was smarting quite a bit from the fireball blast (OOC: down 29hp). Lian's warning startles the leader of the Talons into looking up and also noting the bulging ceiling with alarm.
"Oh, motherless--" K'Nara started to swear, then bites off the rest of the epithet, "--OUT! Everyone out--NOW!!!" The tall warrior woman immediately shoves Milo and Olana towards the door, stopping only long enough to grab her backpack in one hand and swipe at the melted gold in a single attempt to sweep the cooling (cooled?) mass into the top of the container before leaping to the door herself.
Lian d20+14=15 Tuesday October 1st, 2002 7:19:20 AM
Reacting to K'nara's movement (OOC:My previous post was supposed to read *Lian was readying to move when she did*...) The elven monk grabs the remains of his belongings and scoops a handful of silver and perhaps a boney hand (claw, whatever) along with it, shoving it into his pack.
Lian jumps into a backflip and tumbles out of the way of any large clumps of dirty, rock or mud, considering he can't risk anymore damage. (Tumble of 15 plus synergy bonus from his ranks in Jump for a total of 17 on TUMBLE) The elf voices another concern to his Talon friends before he exits the tomb. "Watch yourself for any falling beams!"
Milo Tuesday October 1st, 2002 10:29:30 AM
Milo grabs Olana by the hand, and pulls like a sled dog as he moves as fast as his legs will carry him.
Olana Tuesday October 1st, 2002 1:38:07 PM
Still disoriented as her body starts to repair itself, Olana nevertheless stumbles onward, helping Milo pull her along as fast as she can, with K'Nara giving her a shove from behind. She hears the shouts from the others. What was going on? Was the roof caving in? Her other senses take in the smell of burned leather and the taste of dust as they make their escape.
Ingrge d20+4=20 Tuesday October 1st, 2002 5:25:15 PM
Still in a bit of a daze, Ingrge is aware enough to start moving as the group exits the room. Avoiding the falling and the settled debris he makes his way to the horses and helps get them out of the cave.
DM Kent d100=55 d2=1 Tuesday October 1st, 2002 5:33:33 PM
More and more debris is falling into the room the talons are leaving, now by the bucket full. As they get to the large exterior room they notice that the cracks are extending into this room as well, though nothing seems to be falling yet.
K'nara runs and scoops the now solid but still quite warn gold but does take an additional point of damage as some of the glass shards sticking out of the golden mass cut her hand.
As Figment makes his way to the exit he can hear the unmistakable sounds of combat coming from outside.
Figment warns everyone of what he hears and the Talons emerge from their hidey hole into the late afternoon. The definite sounds of combat are close by and a bit above you. As you make your way away from the hill a bit you see two Lizardmen surrounded by four orcs doing cobat on the top of the hill you were just inside of. You can see the figures of what appear to be 2 lizardmen and 6 orcs lying still on the hill.
Figment Tuesday October 1st, 2002 7:00:34 PM
The mage does his best to conceal the horses from plain sight, hoping the two groups will continue to fight. He looks around for signs of other groups as well. He whispers to the others. "Whomever of these vermine survives we must kill or they too will go get help and return. Evil is very predictable.".
Lian Tuesday October 1st, 2002 8:00:37 PM
Whispering to his friends, the monk says; "I believe we are not in the best shape to encounter these people. We should use their combat as distraction to make our escape."
As he speaks to his friends, Lian draws his bow and knocks an arrow. He seems poised to fire at the beings on the hill. (Lian is readying an action, so that if anything on the hill sees the Talons he'll fire at them, lizardmen or orc alike)
K'Nara d20=20 d20+11=13 d20+5=17 d6=2 d6=5 Wednesday October 2nd, 2002 7:36:06 AM
K'Nara used some spare hankies to bind up her hand (OOC: woohoo--natural 20 on the unaided Heal check!), cursing under her breath about having to haul out of the cave in the manner that the Talons did.
"More orcs and lizardfolk, too..." she mumbled, squinting at the scene of combat, then she nodded, "Okay, Figment, I agree--we'll let these guys duke it out and mop up the survivors." K'Nara then eased her bow into her hands and loosely nocked an arrow.
"Anyone with prep spells left can apply them liberally now..." she suggested, then turned her attention to the battle again, waiting for an opportunity to loose a couple of arrows upon the unlucky winners of the confrontation.
(OOC: I've rolled for K'Nara's two missile attacks, which will take place only when either the orcs or the lizardfolk are dead--the shots hit AC13 and AC17 for 2hpd and 5hpd respectively.)
Olana Wednesday October 2nd, 2002 2:40:39 PM
Trying her best to get a grip - Olana looks around and catches a glimpse of Lian's hair. She's not quite sure which sight is worse - the lizard and orc thing happening in front of them - or Lian's hair! AND the others looked a bit toasted at the edges too. AND it was all her fault - if she hadn't been so clumsy...
Instinctively, her hand rises toward her own scalp. Have her long, blonde tresses gone too?? Instead, her fingers scramble for her bow and what she hopes are still servicable arrows, because right now she doesn't want to know. At least Milo looked to be in one piece. At one point she was worried she might have blown his head off.
ingrge 7d6(6+3+6+3+5+5+4)=32 Wednesday October 2nd, 2002 7:50:42 PM
Stopping to make sure the rest of the party are out, Ingrge motions them on and hands over Moonshadow's reins to Olanna as she passes by. As soon as the others are on their way, Ingrge starts casting. Moments later there is a bright flash and an explosion as a lightening bolt reaches out and touches the area of the hill where the combat is taking place.
DM Kent Wednesday October 2nd, 2002 8:06:22 PM
As the talons move out, passing Ingrge and moving out, Ingrge casts his spell. There is a bright blinging flassh followed by a booming explosion. Moments later there is a large amount of loud rumlbing. When the smoke and dust clears the talons no longer can see the hill as it seems to have collapsed into itself.
over the next few days they move on toward their destination and manage to avoid various groups and critters, while also managing to once again become healthy [mark off any charges and or magic used to heal the numerous injuries.] on the evening of the third day you see the palisade of Fort Hospitality. While wary, the guards will let the party in, and it is obvious that they are very wary of you. It is also very obvious that the Force here is a mercenary force and that they have not been well treated of late.
In the courtyard you have seen six or seven hides stretched across frames. The hides are all huge and of beasts that you have never seen or have only heard of in old bard's tales.
That evening as you all bed down in a separate barracks everything seems to be fine and dandy.
Figment d20=12 Wednesday October 2nd, 2002 9:11:40 PM
As the Talons make their way to the fort, the mage replentishes his spells. He compliments Ingrge on the effective lightning bolt as they travel. As they enter the city he canvases the place with his eyes looking for anything unusual or out of place (DC20). When the Talons come together he offers "So what do you think we need to do?".
Lian d20+16=33 Wednesday October 2nd, 2002 9:43:40 PM
Lian rides along with the Talons and over the course of the first two days, Lian the Monk heals himself (Wholeness of Body, 28 points of healing total). "Please friends, heal yourselves. Don't use your potions and spells on me."
Looking much better on the third day, Lian talks with to Ingrge about his magics and spellcasting abilities. "What spells does you know? What do they do? What was that that you cast at the Hill? What can you tell me of your craft?"
Lian meditates quietly in the barracks, but isn't totally settled having seen the large beast pelts. Listening to the sounds around him as he meditates. (Listen 33)
Olana d8+4=5 Thursday October 3rd, 2002 12:53:54 AM
The elf sups a potion for another 5pts as they travel. When they reach the barracks, once they've settled in. She will attempt to purchase some new clothes - ones that don't smell of burned flesh. "What are those beast hides?" she whispers to the others at one point. "I've not seen such creatures."
K'Nara d20=15 Thursday October 3rd, 2002 6:46:44 AM
The human bladesinger stood with her unfired bow and arrow in hand, her eyes wide and her mouth hanging open at the sight of the freshly-struck battle site. Then K'Nara turned around and glared at Ingrge.
"Show-off..!" she grumped...then winked at him, grinning. "C'mon, then, Talons...on with our mission..!"
(OOC: over the course of three days' travel, I'd assume that the group would use whatever healing spells available to them rather than consume potions or use scrolls, if only because the spells are renewable and the items are single-use-only.)
The sights and sounds of Fort Hospitality confirmed most of what the group had already suspected from their own encounters up to now: something unusual was up in the area...all they had to do was figure out what.
"We ought to try gathering information about encounters that the mercenaries have had in this area recently," K'Nara pointed out to the party, "As well as seeing if anyone around here has seen or heard anything closer to Mount Bone." The tall redhead carefully produced the lumpy mass of gold-and-glass, trying to examine it to see whether she could even hazard a guess as to what the glass parts used to function as... (OOC: voluntary Intelligence check of 15.) She also worked on either removing or at least blunting the sharp edges of the exposed shards...no sense in having a nasty, cut-inducing piece of metal hanging around while awaiting the opportunity to sell off the gold.
Milo d20+28=48 d20+25=35 Thursday October 3rd, 2002 11:37:44 AM
Milo goes about the task of healing his friends as best he can over the next three days, fully expending his full complement of spells each day in order to accomplish this task. Somewhat singed, the halfling ignores his own slightly toasted hide, and allows time's passage to take care of it, as it may. Upon reaching Fort Hospitality, Milo settles into the barracks with his friends, and then slips out quietly for a look about. (OOC: Hide and Move Silently at DCs 48 and 35 respectively)
Ingrge Thursday October 3rd, 2002 7:45:03 PM
Nodding to Figment and grinning at K'nara, Ingrge feels satisfaction at the results of his lightening bolt, but there was some surprise in his eyes as well as the smoke cleared.
Along the way Ingrge accepts what healing he can get and in a day or so he is feeling in tip top shape.
As lian asks his questions Ingrge answers as he can. I have learned how to cast about 80 different spells. With them I can do a myriad of things. Many of my spells are scrying spells and the like as it is my area of speciality. While I have offensive spells, they are not the predominant tyep of spell in my armory.
Like Figment, my spells are magic-based and not acquired from the gods, as I understand out clerical friends get theres. There is much study and practice involved in magic. As for what I cast at the hilltop, it was a lightening bolt.
Once at Fort Hospitality, Ingrge stands and staes at the hides for a bit and then after settling in goes out for a bit.
DM Kent Thursday October 3rd, 2002 8:03:16 PM
While breaking glass shards K'nara finds that the gold could have been nothing other than gold coins as there are several not quite melted ones stuck on the bottom. the glass shard seem to be of similar make and shape of potion vials.
Lian finds the fort fairly restful and easily slips into a slight meditative trance.
Figment's observations of the fort find that the fort has definitely seen better days, that there doesn't seem to be much discipline, and that the force stationed here looks a lot like the fort itself. There seems to be a tension in the air that doesn't quite seem to fit with all he sees.
Olanna, spends a few minutes with Ingrge checking out the hides and trying to figure out just what they may have been. Neither of them have any idea of what the animals were that gave up their pelts. After settling in she goes in search of clothing that fits her and after what seems an awful lot of waiting and hemming and hawing she finds a set of passable fit.
Over the traveling days, Milo is able to use his compliment of spells to effectively heal all the Talons including himself. As he wanders through the fort on his errands, he notices that there are very few of these mercenaries wearing metal armor or carrying heavy weapons, there seems to be a preponderance of short swords and daggers and an awful lot of loose dark clothing.
Figment Thursday October 3rd, 2002 9:43:42 PM
The mage speaks to those helping maintain the city proper on architectural improvements they can make to the city. He helps direct any crews that might be available to help fortify the city walls and its gates.
Lian Friday October 4th, 2002 3:02:25 AM
Lian listens intently to Ingrge.
"See my friend, I am considering, but only considering, becoming a caster of the arcane. That is why I asked." He raises an eyebrow. "I think I could find use in the defensive spells and perhaps the combat enhancing spells. I fear that I might be becoming neglegant in my disciplines though. We will see."
Lian now begins questioning Figment, using pretty much the same questions he asked Ingrge.
K'Nara Friday October 4th, 2002 6:30:28 AM
K'Nara looked around for a place to purchase some healing potions--obviously the party could really use such supplies. She kept her eyes and ears open as well, looking for any clues or rumors about what was up in the area and around Mount Bone. She encouraged all the other Emerald Talons to gather information as well. (OOC: K'Nara's going to be dropping in on the Catacombs.)
Lian Friday October 4th, 2002 7:21:43 AM
Answering K'naras command to gather information; Lian says this, "With all due respect K'nara, I am not suited to gather word, especially now, bald elves do not often get good response." Reminding her of his bald head.
Olana Friday October 4th, 2002 11:04:47 PM
Having found a set of garments, Olana spends some time trying to engage some of the mercenaries in conversation, wishing Milo were there - he was always a better conversationalist.
She takes note of race, age and clothing, and tries to guage the fighting ability of the mercenaries. She asks in a polite way whats been happening around here lately, and if they knew what was going on over Mount Bone way.
Lian Saturday October 5th, 2002 11:04:07 AM
The mage responds to Lian after thoughtfully considering his question. "Wel, my friend, casting spells requires a great deal of focus and dedication. It will take you away from your other pursuits to be certain. You will also find it very mentally challenging. Imagine the discipline you apply to your body applied to your mind. It's tough - but I'd be glad to help you if you intend to pursue it.".
Lian Saturday October 5th, 2002 11:04:28 AM
The mage responds to Lian after thoughtfully considering his question. "Wel, my friend, casting spells requires a great deal of focus and dedication. It will take you away from your other pursuits to be certain. You will also find it very mentally challenging. Imagine the discipline you apply to your body applied to your mind. It's tough - but I'd be glad to help you if you intend to pursue it.".
dm Kent Saturday October 5th, 2002 11:18:05 AM
The rest of the early evening passes quickly. the information you have gathered intrests and concerns you. * K'nara finds that none of the military force here has been more than a few weeks, including the leaders. There have been huge groups of orcs and other humanoids seen and they all seem to be making their way towards Mount Bone. * Olanna seems to think that most of this force are not fighter types and most of them are quite young, all of them human. Her efforts to draw any of them into conversation are met with stony stares and silence. * Figment can't seem to find anyone who is in charge of anything and when he asks the populace about who is in charge of the city, he gets a lot of nervous, averted eyes and cold shoulders. * Milo has a difficult time finding nice flowers but manages to eventually find some in someones garden. With some major league schmoozing and a little coinage, the owner allows him to collect a small bouquet, and in the conversation, the old lady lets slip that things have not been the same since the garrison was forced to leave. She also mentions that the more outspoken people have been disappearing at night never to be seen again. * Milo also comes across a group of kids playing in an alley and before they notice him he sees that they are role playing a game that could only be called assassin and victims.
Just about dark The talons arrives back at the barraks you all have been assigned and moments later Ingrge joins you. He looks really rough worried, and worn out. He shuffles inside and immediately goes to one of the cots and lays down. There is a small cooking area at one end of the barracks and it will soon be dark.
Lian Sunday October 6th, 2002 1:14:06 AM
To Ingrge, Lian replies, "You and I both know that elves are naturally fluent in the arcane magics, and are in most cases the best at it; so it is said in arcane writings . I love a challenge, the body and especially of the mind. You know most of my abilities are focuses of the mind, albeit a different type of focus but disciplined none the less. I would be a great student." The elf smiles. "I have another, more sensitive question to ask friend Ingrge. How old are you? I know that maybe a taboo but I have travelled some time with you and I still do not know. I am, myself, one hundred and fifty-six. The masters and father always said I looked very young, even for an elf." He smiles again.
In the evening, having stayed in, Lian sees Ingrge enter and moves to the elven mages cot-side after getting a light meal from the cooking area. Lian offers a plate to Ingrge. "What is troubling you friend?"
Figment d20+7=25 Sunday October 6th, 2002 9:52:20 AM
The mage frowns as he gets the cold shoulder and the team explains what they know. He attempts to deduce anything he can from what he sees and hears (Int DC 25). "Thse people are being subverted and are too terrified to explain what's happening. I expect an evening foray will be useful. I have an improved invisibility spell I can cast on somebody - or I can use it myself.".
Milo Sunday October 6th, 2002 9:47:48 PM
Returning to the group Milo wears a look of extreme concern, "K'nara, things are not well here. I've heard stories of people disappearing in the night, and caught a group of children playacting as assassins. Also, did you notice the mercenaries around here... they dress oddly in light armor, or none, with quick weapons of deception." Then suddenly remember that he is holding a small bouquet of flowers in one hand, Milo's concerns seem to melt away, and he ventures over to the other side of the room and waits for Olana to return, when he approaches the elven woman and holds the bouquet of flowers out to her, "This may not sound as.. 'ahem' well, the way I want it too... but would you like to go out for a walk in the evening air, to check out the assassin problem that is?" Milo blushes furiously.
K'Nara Monday October 7th, 2002 6:52:38 AM
The human bladesinger grimaced.
"More questions, and no answers." sighed K'Nara. "At least none that satisfy." She rubbed her face tiredly, looking momentarily older than the scant two decades she had lived so far.
"All right, then, Talons," K'Nara said firmly, "This is what we'll do: we'll get our rest here...but we'll stand watch like we usually do when we're going overland. Milo, Olana--you can do more digging, but be VERY careful...and be back in time to take third watch, all right? Figment will be on first watch, Lian and I will be on second watch and Ingrge can take the fourth watch. After we have breakfast, we'll all get our butts over to Mount Bone as soon as possible--we obviously aren't going to discover anything until we get there."
Olana d20+13=15 d20+13=32 d20+2=20 Monday October 7th, 2002 2:08:36 PM
Olana returns and reports. Her story is similar to the others. "Its like we've wandered into the biggest thieves guild in the Wold," she says, rather puzzled. "But if so - who and where is their leader?"
Her entire face lights up as Milo gives her the flowers. "Thankyou, she whispers, and for a moment looks like her old innocent self, before all this Parnoth and Godswar nonsense started to weigh heavy on her soul.
She agrees to accompany Milo, and takes note of what K'Nara says about returning in time for third watch.
"We'll need to bring our 'other' skills to the fore here," she whispers to her halfling friend. "If this is a den of thieves, then we need to be very careful."
(Moving silently DC15 Listen DC32 Spot 20)
Out there, she's watching her back, and looking for some kind of gathering place.
ingrge Monday October 7th, 2002 8:18:15 PM
Watches the Talons and listens to Lian for a while, letting him know that he is nearly 250 years old, until Milo and Olanna return with their reports. As Milo approaches Olanna with the flowers a scowl crosses Ingrge's face. As he watches her accept them and the walk invitation, and blush as well, Ingrge's face goes just about purple. As Lian offers him the plate of food, Ingrge just about bites his head off. MIND YOUR OWN BUSINESS YOUNGLING. IF I WANTED SOMETHING TO EAT I'LL GET IT MYSELF.
Abruptly getting to his feet, Ingrge shoves by Lian and with a quick nod to K'nara exits the barraks giving one last accussing stare at Milo and Olanna as he leaves.
DM Kent d20+6=18 d20+6=7 Monday October 7th, 2002 8:45:50 PM
First watch passes quietly and Figment gives up the watch to K'nara and Lian, Ingrge, Olanna, and Milo are still out doing what ever it is they are doing.
At about thirty minutes past midnight, Lian catches some movement out of the corner of his eye in one of the far corners of the barracks near the cooking area.
Pointing the movement out to K'nara, they see four dark figures spread out and move stealthily toward the sleeping area.
DM Kent [continued] d20+6=19 d20+6=25 Monday October 7th, 2002 8:52:13 PM
Ingrge walks a while and finds him slef in a seedy tavern. Waliking in he sits himself at a table near the front door and places himself in a corner with his back to the wall. Ordering himself a bottle of Dwarven liquor, he upends the bottle and takes a long, deep swig.
Olanna and Milo head out for their walk and find their way walking through the more populated residential section where they see families packing it in for the night. They see an awful lot of interior storm shutter being put up. They also both spot several darkly dressed figure leaping from rooftop to rooftop. Every now and again they see small groups of people whispering softly that immediately break up as you approach.
Lian d20+10=23 d8-1=3 d8+4=9 Tuesday October 8th, 2002 12:02:37 AM
Lian is slightly offended my his elders harsh words, however, it soon becomes a minor happening. The dark cloaked figures cause Lian to silently 'gulp'. "K'nara!" The monk whispers. "Uhh... K'nara. Who are they? They are as quiet as me and just as stealthy as Milo. I do not like this place at all. Those large strange pelts, dark cloaked figures, silent citizens and those dark cloaked figures, did I mention them?!" Thinking to himself, 'I hope Milo and Olana are safe. I wish I had more training in the stealth area, I need practice.'
Lian readies against an attack, completely expecting more than the four to be somewhere nearby. (Hitting AC 23, Stunning attack DC 17, for 3 real DAMAGE) (OOC:I'm not sure if they intend to harm us or others in the sleeping area. Are we in the sleeping area? Do they look intent on us? Sense motive 9)
Milo d20+28=44 d20+25=34 d20+10=20 d20+10=30 Tuesday October 8th, 2002 1:24:37 AM
Looking genuinely concerned, Milo asks Olana in a low voice, "Did I do something wrong?" He watches solemnly as Ingrge leaves. Once outside, Milo stays close to Olana, "I think that folks here are scared of the night." Noticing the dark figures on the rooftops, "Perhaps we should follow them, and see what they are up to. Maybe we'll get a chance to talk with one of them." (OOC: Hide check DC 44, Move Silently check DC 34, Spot check DC 20, Listen check DC 30).
K'Nara d20+5=22 d20+11=13 d20+4=24 d10+4=8 d10+4=5 d20+4=5 d6=1 d6=6 Tuesday October 8th, 2002 7:01:58 AM OOC to Lian: when a person stands watch, they do so at least partially away from the designated sleeping area, in order to allow the people to rest. In this case, K'Nara and Lian are probably on one side of the barracks, with Figment sleeping on the other. I'm also assuming that Ingrge, Milo and Olana are no longer in the barracks, either, as they've all gone out to do various things this night.
K'Nara stiffened as Lian pointed out the stealthy quartet, then gestured for the monk to approach and attack the two on the left while she took care of the two on the right. Quietly the female fighter unsheathed Lucia as she also used her bladesinger training to approach the intruders silently (OOC: got 22 for Move Silently check), waiting until the very last second before suddenly bellowing: "LUCIA!!!" Her reason for this was two-fold: to cause the area to suddenly become illuminated by the sword's flame so that she could see better to strike at the intruders...and to wake Figment from his slumber with the sound of her yelling.
(OOC: I know I'm assuming a lot--that the quartet is actually in a configuration so that Lian CAN "take the two on the left", etc. Common sense tells me that K'Nara will at the very least intercept/strike at the one closest to reaching Figment. I've rolled K'Nara's two attacks--the first hits AC13 for 8hpd & 1hp fire damage; the second hits AC24 for 5hpd & 6hp fire damage but misses out on being a Crit Hit [unless the AC of the intruder is actually 5 or less.] ;D)
Olana Tuesday October 8th, 2002 6:18:06 PM
Olana stares after Ingrge for a moment, and bites her lip. "Still waters run deep, Milo, to be honest I'm not sure," she says by way of reply to Milo's question about Ingrge.
As they see all the skulking about, she adds - "I think you're right. What if they're kidnapping children and teaching them the bad things in life? I don't like this place at all. I'm wondering - if everyone's boarded up - they'll be looking for the easy places to rob. We could follow - but maybe its a good idea to warn our people. Lets not stay out too long."
DM Kent d20+6=18 d20+6=9 d20+6=13 d20+6=17 d20+5=6 d20+25=43 d20+25=44 d20+10=26 d20+10=28 Tuesday October 8th, 2002 10:02:16 PM
the four figures realize that they are no longer unannounced and silently make their ways quickly toward K'nara and Lian. Whether due to suprise or carelessness they all miss on their attacks although both K'nara and Lian feel their opponent's blades slice through layers of fabric.
Lian attack manages to strike one of his opponents as does K'nara's second attack.
After hearing K'nara's battle cry and hearing the sound of sword play, Figment who had only been asleep about an hour wakes.
Ingrge sits and slugs out of his bottle as he thinks. How is it that she can even think about having any kind of a non-working relationship with Milo. He is a halfling. She is an elf for Domi's sake. How is it that she can't know how I .... Milo's a nice enough sort, but he isn't an elf. Why doesn't she look at me that way. Maybe I should ... Ah, To the shadowlands with them. Who cares what they do. Let the little she elf have her toy, it won't last, and then we will see what happens ...
Lost in his obsessive little world he doesn't notice the three men that have come up to his table.
Olanna and Milo turn as if to follow one of the shadowy figures when they realize they wont have to go very far to find some to talk to, as they realize that two of them suddenly step out of the shadows right behind them with their swords drawn. [move silently DCs 43, 44 hide DCs 26,28]
Lian d20+8=18 d20+8=19 d20+5=7 d8-1=5 d8-1=7 d8-1=4 Tuesday October 8th, 2002 10:25:35 PM
"We are not mere peasants lad!" As Lian strikes out at his opponent. His fast fists waste no time striking out at the dark form. (Flurry of blows, +8/+8/+5) Hitting AC 18, 19 and 7; for 5, 7 and 4 respectively for 12 real DAMAGE. Lian slowly moves and DODGES around to raise his AC to 21. He attempts to avoid the dark figures and getting flanked.
K'Nara d20+11=26 d20+4=8 d10+4=6 d6=4 d10+4=9 d4=3 Wednesday October 9th, 2002 6:44:47 AM
"Sheesh!" K'Nara gritted her teeth as she fought. "This is NO way to treat tourists..!" She whirled her flaming blade at one of her opponents (OOC: hits AC26 for 6hpd + 4hp fire damage; hits AC8 [bleagh!] for 9hpd + 3hp fire damage.)
Figment d4+1=4 d4+1=5 d4+1=2 d4+1=2 Wednesday October 9th, 2002 8:30:27 PM
The mage rolls quickly to his feet and realizes an attck is underway. Assuming it is some of these assassins the others were speaking of, he identifies the one that Lian is pounding on and launches 4 of his signature magic missiles at him (13 DMG). "You were foolish to think us unprepared...". Figment also scans the area again to see if any other assailants become visible.
Olana d20+8=15 d10=6 Wednesday October 9th, 2002 9:35:26 PM
Olana spins around, pulling her better sword. She attempts to use the flat of her blade (6 dam) to knock the idea of attacking out of her assailant's head. "Don't be stupid," she says quietly. "We're more than a match for you," sincerely hoping they are, of course.
Ingrge d20-4=16 Wednesday October 9th, 2002 9:45:35 PM
Looking up, Ingrge sees his new companions. Indicating the other chairs, he asks them to join him for a drink.
Milo d20+8=25 d20+8=22 4d6(2+4+5+5)+1=17 4d6(1+6+1+6)+1=15 Thursday October 10th, 2002 1:31:43 AM
With a couple of quick steps, Milo maneuvers behind the two men, to flank the thug that Olana attacked, drawing his short sword as he moves. The enchanted blade is a whir of motion as the halfling brings it to bear on the cretin. Addressing Olana, "I don't think these guys are the local constabulary, you may want to point that out to them." (OOC: Milo moves by the one attacker, provoking an attack of opportunity from him, though Mobility and Dodge increase Milo's AC to 22 for the maneuver. Milo hits ACs 25 and 22 for 17 and 15 hps respectively)
Dm Kent d20+6=19 d20+6=23 d8+4=9 d20+6=20 d20+6=21 d8+4=12 d8+4=8 Thursday October 10th, 2002 7:47:37 PM
two of Lian's flurry strike solidly one of his opponents and then manages to dodge one of the attacks aimed at him but is not so lucky with the second one as he is struk solidly for 9 points of damage.
k'nara also hits once and is rewarded for her strikes by being hit twice herself for 20 points.
figment's bolts go flying and strike lian's opponent and drops him to the ground.
milo's and ollana's attacks on the one man decapitate the fellow leaving a shocked look on both his and his companion's face.
The other one stands there looking at the two of you like a deer caught in the lantern light and manages to stammer, 'We'int mean n' 'arm. Jes wannit t'ask fer yer 'elp, an y'wen an y'kilt 'im.'
Ingrge's companions snicker at him and then in a very superior tone say, Ain'no pointy eared fok lowwed in 'ere. yu gats t'go.
Figment d4+1=2 d4+1=5 d4+1=3 d4+1=2 Thursday October 10th, 2002 8:14:55 PM
The mage frowns at the declaration. "Then drop your swords! You do not attack and then expect to ask for help!". The mage watches the interlopers. If they comply he holds his spell. If they continue to fight he blasts the one not injured yet with 4 more missles (12 DMG).
[David, the person speaking is talking to Milo and Olanna in town, the ones in the barracks havent said a thing they are just attacking silently]
Lian d20+10=29 d8-1=5 Thursday October 10th, 2002 10:43:28 PM
Lian is unsure of what Figment is attempting to do, in the past he used to talk things out, recently he would attack with no question. Oh well. Lian readies to attack the dark figure if he attacks the monk. If he attacks Lian his last opponent, (Stunning attack, hitting AC 29 for 5 damage, DC 17 Fort Save or be stunned) "Fig?! What are you saying?"
Olana Friday October 11th, 2002 1:05:05 AM
For a long second, Olana looks at her sword, the headless body, and then back at her sword. This was getting to be a regular occurance. What had she become, some kind of harbinger of doom? A pointed eared Grim Reaper?
With a desperate sigh, she looks across at Milo, and then whispers to the other person - "Sorry....."
K'Nara (who possesses AC23 now, you know) d20+11=28 d20+4=18 d10+4=9 d6=4 d10+4=14 d6=3 Friday October 11th, 2002 6:54:56 AM
The bladesinger-in-training nearly reeled away from the damage of the two successful attacks upon her, then grimly launched a counterattack.
(OOC: first attack hits AC28 for 9hpd + 4hp fire damage; second attack hits AC18 for 14hpd and 3hp fire damage.)
Milo d20+12=32 Friday October 11th, 2002 9:55:28 AM
Milo's face remains perfectly calm as the thug sputters his protest, and then as Olana apologizes, "Sorry nothin', Mister you're lucky you're aren't dead as well. By Pantheon's golden scales, what did you think would happen by stepping quietly out of the shadows on perfect strangers with a weapon drawn like that? Especially with all the dark cloaked strangers with nasty looking weapons runnin' about this infernal town." As Milo talks, he starts to get angry, though his voice remains quiet, taking on an edge like ice. Looking up at Olana though, he immediately relaxes as he sees her worry, "Don't fret about this Olana, this man is either a complete fool, or a liar. I'm not sure which yet. Where I come from, you don't sneak up on somebody with a weapon drawn, unless you mean business." (OOC: Milo made a sense motive check DC 32).
dm kent d20+15=29 d20+6=16 d20+6=19 d20+6=19 d20+6=7 d20+6=15 d20+6=15 d20+6=8 d20+6=8 Monday October 14th, 2002 5:46:55 PM
Milo takes a good look at the other man, who still has not dropped his weapon, and as he makes his decision that the man is playing for time, the man swings his weapon at him, just missing as the halfling edges to the side.
K'nara drops her first opponent and the other one lashes out at her missing as he tries to avoid the flaming sword.
Lian strikes out at his opponent connnecting but not stunning [DC19], but is rewarded by the fact that the man badly missed with his attack.
Figment's missiles lash out and strike k'nara's opponent.
After Ingrge's retort of, 'I suppose you are going to make me leave.' The four grab the table and throw it out of the way and move toward Ingrge. As they rush Ingrge, they get in each other's way and none manage to grab hold of the elf.
Milo d20+8=23 d20+8=26 4d6(6+6+6+3)+1=22 4d6(3+3+6+5)+1=18 Monday October 14th, 2002 8:07:30 PM
Milo's grin is feral, "That's what they all say." The halfling takes a step, placing the man in between himself, and Olana, in flanking position, and lets his magic short sword finish his thought. (OOC: Milo hits AC 23 and 26 for 22 and 18 hps respectively)
Figment d4+1=3 d4+1=2 d4+1=5 d4+1=4 Monday October 14th, 2002 9:47:59 PM
The mage snarls at the attackers. He blasts Lians assailant with 4 more missles (14 DMG). "You guys just wait... In a few months I'll be able to throw FIVE at a time at you!"
Olana d20+10=19 d20+8=24 d10=1 d8=2 d20+2=10 d20+2=7 Monday October 14th, 2002 11:51:15 PM
Sweeping to the other side of the man, Olana's blades slice in as soon as Milo's sword has finished it's work. (Hits DC 19 and 24 for 1 and 2) The villain appears to stagger away slightly, so she is only able to deliver relative pin pricks.
Then her eyes look to the rooftops once more, just in case. (Spot DC 10)
Lian d20+10=27 d20+10=26 d20+7=8 d8-1=6 Tuesday October 15th, 2002 12:44:38 AM
The elven monk is really beginning to take it personally when he's unexpectedly attacked for apparently no reason at all. Lian attempts to Trip his opponent. Hitting AC 27 (if he's tripped, Lian takes his regular attacks at the prone form hitting AC 26 and missing with a natural 1, dealing 6 DAMAGE) (if his opponent isn't tripped, he takes his second attack hitting AC
Lian (additional) d20+7=12 d8-1=2 Tuesday October 15th, 2002 1:00:13 AM
OOC: Oops, I hit submit by mistake.
...continuing....
hitting AC 12 (using his second attack), for 2 DAMAGE.)
"Get use to it friend, the Talons do not fall easily!" Says the monk.
Lian Dodges his opponent (AC 21)
K'Nara d20+11=28 d20+4=11 d10+4=7 d6=4 d10+4=6 d6=6 d20+11=27 d10+4=11 d10+4=9 Tuesday October 15th, 2002 6:25:45 AM
Still smarting from the lucky blows her opponents landed on her, the human bladesinger turned her undivided attention onto her remaining opponent...much to his detriment. (OOC: The first blow hits AC28 for 7hpd + 4hp fire damage--but it also qualifies as a Crit Hit--the CH blow hits AC27 and adds an additional 20hpd for the skillful application of Lucia's blade [I didn't think you can make additional damage with the flaming part of the sword, though, so I didn't roll for that.] K'Nara's second attack hits AC11 for 6hpd + 6hp fire damage.)
ingrge d4+1=5 Tuesday October 15th, 2002 5:41:43 PM
'What a bunch of clowns.' And to think I was hoping for a little bit of a workout. But I have already had a horrendously bad day.' Speaking nearly at the top of his voice, Ingrge say, If you want to live, you might want to exit the inn now.
With a bit more flourish than necessay and a muttered 'copiesofme' there are suddenly 6 Ingrges facing the burly drunks.
DM Kent d6=3 d6=3 d6=4 d6=4 d20+6=17 d20+6=19 d20+6=18 d20+6=19 Tuesday October 15th, 2002 6:02:59 PM
Milo, and Olanna shredd their final opponent as do Figment, K'nara, and Lian. and all is quiet both encounters lasted mere minutes.
Ingrge's words send a stampede to the doors, but his opponents spread out to face the six Ingrges after hesitating only a few moments.
All four have drawn a pair of daggers and appear to know how to use them. Two of them attack the 3rd ingrge and 2 attack the 4th one, both connecting with their opponent and both cursing as the two Ingrges they attacked dissipate into nothingness.
Milo Tuesday October 15th, 2002 7:51:12 PM
Milo looks up at Olana smiling, "Well, as much as I would like to cavort with you through the streets of this gentle burg, I suppose the responsible thing to do, is to go and tell the others." Milo's follow-up sigh is long and deep.
Figment d20+8=25 Tuesday October 15th, 2002 8:00:19 PM
The mage moves over to the assailants quickly and searches for anything that might tell him who they are and who sent them (Int DC 25). "I hope the others are OK. We should not separate again in this place and we MUST find out who is behind this before we move on to Bone Castle.".
Lian Tuesday October 15th, 2002 8:09:13 PM
"Okay, that went well? I suppose." The monk looks at the red-headed leader and asks, "Who were they and why do you suppose they attacked us?"
The elf thinks a moment, "I wonder how the others are doing?"
Lian searchs the dark figures for 'ID' or items. If any of them are still alive, he'll tie them up and gag them, leaving them for Milo the Justicar to 'deal with'.
After the search is done and Lian sits back waiting to hear word of the others, healing himself while he meditates.(healing 9 points, using Wholeness of Body)
Olana Tuesday October 15th, 2002 11:27:58 PM
Milo's words lighten the mood considerably for the elf, and she breaks into a smile. "Hang on a sec," she says, and quickly examines the bodies for anything of interest. "It's unlikely they'll have a sign that says 'Rogues Unlimited' and an address tattooed on their chest, but you never know."
After that, she'll accompany Milo back to base unless her search uncovers something too interesting to ignore. "I hope Ingrge's alright," she whispers. "He went out on his own."
K'Nara d20=20 d8+1=8 Wednesday October 16th, 2002 7:12:54 PM
K'Nara panted heavily, her injuries telling.
"Lucia." she commanded her sword to flame off, then sheathed it with a grimace as her wounds reminded her that their unknown foes had been playing for keeps. She helped Figment with his search of the bodies, looking for any clues to the origins/identities of the men. (OOC: Search check is a natural 20! Whoohoo!)
"The gods only know, Lian." she spoke to the monk, then frowned at Figment's statement. "Ingrge isn't here? I hadn't noticed him leaving...though it's starting to get a little late for Olana and Milo, now...I was expecting them to come in through the door during our unexpected altercation with these guys..." K'Nara pulled out her pack, rummaging through it for a potion bottle which she uncorked and quaffed with alacrity. (OOC: drank one of her CLW potions for 8hp of healing.)
"I can only hope Ingrge wasn't fool enough to try wandering around by himself," the leader of the Talons said, wiping her mouth with the back of one hand, "This place has demonstrated a severe lack of respect for anyone with any kind of points to their ears."
Ingrge 8d6(6+4+3+6+5+5+6+6)=41 Wednesday October 16th, 2002 8:07:35 PM
Having originally placed himself near an exit, Ingrge used his doubles to mirror his moves to the door and then just as he is about to step through, he and the other 3 Ingrges stop and turn back toward the ruffians and lets loose with a whopper of a fireball. [41 points each]
DM Kent Wednesday October 16th, 2002 8:28:34 PM
All the attackers at both locations have little on them other than their weapons and two small vials of liquid, one at each hip. They also all have a bloody dagger tattoed onto the inside of their left bicept. Their weapons consist of two wicked looking, slightly longer than normal, bent/curved wide bladed daggers.
Ingrge's Firball goes off and even the talons can hear the muffled sound of the boom. The ruffians are engulfed and incinerated as are most of tables and chairs in the tavern. The tavern is on fire and will soon threaten the other nearby buildings.
Figment d20+18=32 Wednesday October 16th, 2002 10:15:43 PM
Hearing the fireball goes off, the mage recognizes it immediately (Arcana DC 32). "That was Ingrge's work. I'd say our evening is about to get interesting.". He heads toward the fire, looking for the others, staying behind the others (I'm guessing we are going to go there...).
Lian d20+6=22 Thursday October 17th, 2002 1:44:43 AM
Jerking out of his meditation and looking at the door after hearing the explosion, Lian snickers a little bit. "Well, I am sure Figment did not just blow something up because he is right here. Who else around here do you know that casts lightning bolts... or, wait, that was a different sound. Ingrge must have encountered someone as well, but that is just a hunch." The elf sniffs the air, smelling the slightly pungent odor of burnt wood and sulfur. "Nope, that was not a lightning bolt." The elf jumps to his feet and runs over to the door, opens it, and looks out, looking for tell-tale signs of destruction. (Spot of 22)
K'Nara Thursday October 17th, 2002 6:09:17 AM
K'Nara gathered up the vials, frowning because her instinct was telling her that they were likely to be poison, even though there was no current time or way to test that theory.
Then the telltale "boom" and Figment's comment caused the human bladesinger to let loose a stream of invectives that doubtless singed Lian's uninitiated ears. ;)
"That's IT!" she said, standing up and kicking one of the bodies to one side. "Let's go see if Figment's right--and keep an eye out for Olana and Milo, too! We're getting together and then heading OUT of town...hopefully to spend a restful night out amongst the orc patrols and mutant wolves and..." Her comments trailed off to an irritated mutter as K'Nara exited the barracks, leaving Figment and Lian to follow.
Milo Thursday October 17th, 2002 10:51:10 AM
After helping Olana collect the vials from the dead bodies, Milo is ready to go. However, the sudden explosion brings the Justicar to full alert. Grabbling Olana's hand, the halfling heads out, "We better find out what that was... I hope everybody is okay."
Olana Thursday October 17th, 2002 1:36:38 PM
Olana is looking curiously at the blades of the rogues weapons - "You know these are good kniv -" when the blast occurs and Milo grabs her by the hand.
She takes takes up the knives also and follows quickly. "Well, who do we know that likes to blow things up?" she says completely without irony, having forgotten their last little escapade with the chest.
Ingrge Thursday October 17th, 2002 5:39:00 PM
Turning his back on the burning inn the four Ingrges look around at the former tavern's patrons that are hanging around. 'You all made the right choice. Now is anyone going to further delay my departure.' Taking a swig from the bottle still in his hand he heads back yo the barracks.
DM Kent Thursday October 17th, 2002 6:03:40 PM
The onlookers faced with four Ingrges decide the better part of valor might be to try to put out the fire and start attempting to do so, or at least they keep it from speading to the rest of the fort.
Lian, Figment, and K'nara rush out the door and make for the reddish glow down the street when they here two pair of footsteps coming up behind them rapidly. Turning rapidly weapons in hand they see that it is only Milo and Olanna. As the group again makes their way toward the former inn, they see four Ingrges coming around the corner toward them. Oddly he seems to be taking a large swig from a bottle of liquor.
Figment d20+7=22 Thursday October 17th, 2002 7:36:48 PM
The mage frowns and scoffs as the warrior woman walks by. "IF Figment is right?!?!". Looking to Lian he adds "It was a rather impressive fireball. Something it takes a long time to learn. Ingrge is quite good as a mage. Quite good indeed...". He makes his way with the others.
As Ingrge walks up drinking his bottle, the mage wryly mentions "You know, the townsfolk may have noticed it was you who started the fire...".
He rifles through his memory banks to see if he can remember any groups with the red dagger tattoos or wicked looking daggers as standard weapons issue (Int DC 22). "Perhaps we could get Milo and Olana to attempt and track our assailants passage prior to them getting to the barracks? What do you guys think? Any chance we can figure out where their headquarters are?".
Milo Thursday October 17th, 2002 11:53:57 PM
Milo looks curiously up at Figment, one eyebrow arched, though silent and concentrating as if weighing every word the wizard speaks. Then turning, to Olana, the halfling relaxes and smiles, "Tracking would be your department ma' dear. Though I don't know what good it would do to track lightfooted rogues on a city street." Milo searches his memories for knowledge of this cult of thieves.
Lian Friday October 18th, 2002 12:34:54 AM
"Glad to see you both alright. Um... Olana, clean the blade." The elven monk looks at the rangers sword and smiles with a raised eyebrow. He glances at Milo, then shakes his head with wide eyes.
Looking back and forth, Lian looks for Ingrge. Seeing the red glow, he points in that direction. "Ingrge?" The elf smirks, or is it a grimace?
The monk follows happily along.
K'Nara d20+11=19 d20+4=21 Friday October 18th, 2002 6:52:05 AM
K'Nara instinctively grabbed at the nearest Ingrges--or, rather, for their bottles. (OOC: first attempt hits AC19, the second hits AC21; she's intent on snagging the bottle and throwing it away if either hit actually does more than dispel two of Ingrge's remaining Images.)
"Give me that!" snapped the human bladesinger, trying to take away the elf's bottle. "What in the Nine Hells has happened here???"
Olana Friday October 18th, 2002 6:58:09 PM
"Well... we ran into trouble, you see," says Olana breathlessly to Lian when he mentions the blade when they regroup.
"K'Nara there are thieves everywhere. Milo and I ran into some trouble and - oh my...." She looks in astonishment at the four drunken Ingrges. And Milo was certainly right about the tracking difficulty.
ingrge Sunday October 20th, 2002 10:46:20 AM
'You know friend Figment. I expect you are right. They defiitely will know I set the fire. as I did not try to hide the fact.' I was after all just defending myself.'
DM Kent d4=4 d4=3 Sunday October 20th, 2002 10:54:36 AM
K'nara makes her grabs and two Ingrges pop out of existance. The happy elf reaches out to her and hands her the bottle. Hey, if you wanted a drink....
Somewhat surprisingly there does not appear to be anyone of authority coming to check out the fire. The inn is basiically a gutted shell but the fire was contained so that no further damage was inflicted.
Milo wracks his brain about the thieve's tattoos and recalls reading something about a similar mark belonging to the followers of Jancassis.
Milo Sunday October 20th, 2002 12:27:51 PM
As Milo stands there with a perplexed look on his face, rubbing his chin between forefinger and thumb, it suddenly strikes him, and the knowledge alights upon his brow with a mixture of fear and anger. Looking around at his friends, and then settling on K'nara, "I know where I've seen that symbol before... Have any of you heard of the cult of Jancassis... god of revenge. You might think that Pantheon and Jancassis have something in common, but there is a fine line between justice and revenge that one must never step over... I think that this was planned... they meant to assassinate us." All the while explaining, Milo's hand drops to the hilt of his mystic short sword, and the halfling's knuckles turn white as he grips the pommel.
Figment Sunday October 20th, 2002 6:47:48 PM
The mage listens to the halfling. "So where is there a temple of Jancassis around here?".
Lian Monday October 21st, 2002 4:08:15 AM
"I think we definately need to leave for Mount Bone sooner rather than later. Ingrge may end up on the loose end of a noose if we do not. We may have been targets before, but now we burnt down the local tavern, that is not good. Everyone here will know who did it." He looks at K'nara. "Yes, I am afraid of the outcome! If we leave now, the heat might die off then we can come back and deal with these Jancassis worshippers. We might find more information at the Mount." The monk looks for a response to his words in the faces of his friends. "Revenge is not the way."
K'Nara d20+11=25 d20+4=24 d3+1=4 d3+1=3 d20+1=17 Monday October 21st, 2002 6:33:32 AM
K'Nara found herself holding a mostly-empty bottle and facing two drunken Ingrges. She tossed the bottle over her shoulder, not caring where it landed. Then the leader of the Talons threw two punches--each one aimed at the respective chins of the remaining illusion and the real Ingrge.
Whichever Ingrge was left, she seized and hoisted in a fireman's hold over one shoulder. (OOC: made a Strength check to pick up our all-too-happy elf.)
"Let's get outta here!" she growled to the rest of the Emerald Talons. "I've had it with this place--and we still have to find out what is up at Mount Bone!" The exasperated redhead carried Ingrge over to where the party had put up their horses and dumped the inebriated elf over the back of her own mount. "Everyone on a horse and let's get out of town. Double up if you have to."
K'Nara couldn't wait to get to a decent place to set up camp--then she'd be able kick Ingrge's butt in relative peace and safety.
Ingrge Monday October 21st, 2002 11:06:52 AM
Suprised and shocked at having been struck by K'nara, Ingrge manages to get out a quick phrase before being tackle and carried like a sack of potatoes. 'You know the last people who did that are somewhere inn that mass of ash.' It is as he turns to point at the fire that he is tackled and carried. Too drunk to really effectively fight it, he starts to giggle, ;;giggle, giggle;; Why 'nara, I'm not tha' kina elf. 'Sides my heart is already given. Now, if all you wan ish my body...' ;;GIGGLE, GIGGLE;;
He gasps as he is unceremoniusly dumped on the horse.
DM Kent Monday October 21st, 2002 11:30:30 AM
The Talons get to the gate and find that they are allowed to leave without any difficulty. They head toward their destination and about an hour later find a suitable campsite.
[you may post multi day posts if necessary to cover things you wanted to do.]
Morning comes and Ingrge feeling, more than a bit chagrined and hung over, sits hunched over his spell book studying.
As the Talons move out there seems to be an awful lot of movement in the area. Large groups of Martean liveried soldiers moving the same way as you, but they seem to be hyper-focussed and don't even notice you. Every now and again you see a group of them under attack by slightly larger groups of Jancassis' followers.
Near the end of the third day, a change comes over the area. The sky goes completely dark and the Martean liveried folk start showing sings of awareness and excitement. If possible, they seem to be moving even more rapidly toward Mount Bone.
Several minutes later you hear the echoing bell of several horns. The Marteans set off with frenzied cries and shrieks and start foaming at their mouths. Now you start fearing for your safety whereas you were not before.
Just as you realize that you have been targeted by about 50 soldiers, there is a great EXPLOSION in the distance, and everyone of the Marteans falls to the ground, overcome and comatose.
Milo Monday October 21st, 2002 2:13:01 PM
Knowing that he cannot fight an entire temple full of Jancassis followers himself, Milo is happy to leave the dark town behind, and get back on the road.
Over the next couple of days, riding double with Olana, even though there are Marteans all about, Milo , for good or ill, quietly expresses his affections to Olana, not wanting to remain silent, knowing full well that being a halfling may cause him rejection, but not caring anyways.
Milo is shocked at the sudden behavior of the "rabid" Marteans, and equally dismayed when the entire lot is laid low by the distant explosion. "That wouldn't be where we are headed would it?" Milo looks questioningly at K'nara.
Figment d20+18=29 Monday October 21st, 2002 10:48:03 PM
As the Talons move along with the despicable followers of Martaeus he struggles to refrain from blasting some of the groups. He decides, however, to save his spells as he will probably need them all before too long. He smiles as some of the soldiers get what's coming to them from the Jancassis followers. "At least we can count on them to kill each other. Less work for us...". He slumps disappointedly as the soldiers fall to the ground and he has to refrain from showing Ingrge that he can cast a pretty god fireball too. With his mastery of Arcana, he attempts to deduce what is happening to the soldiers (Arcana DC 29). "Yes Milo, I'm afraid so. Maybe Jancassis is attempting to control Mount Bone. Who knows, maybe we could find it open with all the opponents dead already. I wouldn't mind claiming it and declairing it a refuge of Alemi. Wouldn't THAT torque Martaeus!".
Olana Tuesday October 22nd, 2002 1:08:50 AM
Olana is also glad to be out of that particular town. It was obviously a place that would be a trouble spot in the future.
Riding along with Milo, the elf listens silently to what he has to say. It presented her with a dilemma. Where she came from, affairs of the heart were always intertwined with the strength, longevity and well being of the tribe. Partners with whom to share love and affection - and eventually marriage and children, were chosen with extreme care and laborious tradition - primarily because the birth of children was so special and rare. She knew where her duty lay.
But then, the last few years had been anything but typical. Other creatures seemed to want to race ahead at breakneck speed. She was caught in a world that seemed to run at 10 times the pace of her own; and it was a world of pain and struggle and terror and never knowing where the future lay. She felt displaced. Despite her outward cheer, it was something that constantly troubled her, and knowing it couldn't be helped just seemed to make it worse. And it the midst of this was Milo - he made her smile, he made her feel wanted and special, he gave her hope. Quietly, she had a great deal of affection, love and respect for him. She enjoyed his company. So there it was.
To her it was a path that needed to be carefully treaded, for both their sakes. Some would not understand, and her possible future obligation hung around her neck like a millstone - if she lived long enough, and things ever slowed to down to anything like a normal life.
Over the next couple of days, she attempts to explain privately to Milo what lies in her heart, and what lies in her head.
As they travel, and witness the gathering of Marteaus's army, she grows more and more unsettled. What were these villians up to now, she wonders. As the explosion occurs she gasps in shock and astonishment.
"That seemed to have come from a few miles away. Who would have the power to do such a thing?"
Lian Tuesday October 22nd, 2002 3:15:13 AM
He openly snickers at K'nara and Ingrge. The elven monk just rides along behind the Talons silently, just watching their activities and the dynamic between the female and the halfling. Lian watches Ingrge's sharp glances at the duo and then right around the second night, he puts it altogether as he meditates, he thinks.
As for the more non-trivial events, he is afraid the days of the previous Year are about to repeat themselves. He voices his concerns. "War, again! Gods seem to never be content with peace, forcing their followers on quests they can not complete. Blind fools."
K'Nara Tuesday October 22nd, 2002 8:30:36 AM
After departing Fort Hospitality, the Talons set up a safer place of rest. K'Nara noted the following morning that Ingrge was very much the worse for wear, and almost decided that his hangover was punishment enough.
Almost.
"Ingrge." the human bladesinger spoke to him after having finished her morning training routine and while the two of them where relatively separate from the others. "I hope you realize that I got really angry with you yesterday not because you were drunk, but because you'd gone off alone in what was obviously hostile territory. Do not ever--EVER--do that again! You're too important." So saying, K'Nara nodded brusquely and went off to have breakfast.
As the activity around Mount Bone appeared to reach a crescendo, the redheaded warrior woman reined in Poki and surveyed the increased traffic with a thoughtful frown.
"No wonder Parnoth is worried--looks like the Dork Lord is up to his old tricks." K'Nara said darkly. The Talons' being surrounded by the forces of Marteaus seemed to confirm this...then the surprising turn of events that floored the evil hoarde occurred.
"On to Mount Bone!" K'Nara ordered. "We've GOT to find out what in The Wold is happening..!" She spurred Poki to his swiftest and rode flat-out for the ominous peak.
Ingrge Tuesday October 22nd, 2002 12:50:01 PM
Ingrge grunts at k'nara's reprimand and then over the course of the next few days stare, sometimes glare at Olanna's and Milo's backs as they ride ahead of them. More than a bit alarmed at the number of Marteans moving along with them,ngrge keeps eye contact with Figment as much as possible in order to make a joint decision if it became necessary. His fingers really started to twitch when they came across the two groups fighting.
Ingrge, never one to be overly verbose in any situation, has actually almost become mute. Most of his responses are single word answers, unless he can get away with a grunt. And a grunt is all that comes out of him when the explosion occurs and all the Martians fall down.
As K'nara gives her order to ride, Ingrge leans toward Moonshadow's head and suddenly they are off like the wind, pushing the others to keep up. When they finally have to stop for the night, there is a light smile on his face, if only for a mere second, as he takes care of his partner.
DM Kent Tuesday October 22nd, 2002 5:44:12 PM
As the talons move quickly forward, the dark of Mount Bone suddenly takes shape on the horizon.
Several miles after the big boom the talons notice that many of the fallen Marteans are regaining conciousness and getting to their feet. They are obviously shaken to their core and while they continue their way toward the Mount, they do so a less urgent pace.
Near the end of the day 4th day, after a last bit of travel, you see ahead of you Mount Bone. As you approach you see several things; One, there are areas of shadow that seem to triangulate upon the tower. Second, there also seems to be an inordinate amount of Orc tribes hanging around, both alive and dead.
All evening and night you watch large groups of orcs, and other monsterish folk entering the tower. Later that evening you hear many trumpets and fiery displays come from the mountain, almost as if there is some sort of huge festival, celebration, or tourney going on.
Other than being very tired the Talons are fully healed, but this host has them more than a bit dismayed.
Figment Tuesday October 22nd, 2002 8:23:28 PM
"Hmmmm. Perhaps a fly over would be better than a group jaunt? I can fly over to see what's going on. Any objections?". If not the mage casts invisibility and fly on himself and goes to have a look around the outside of Mount Bone. He observes the orc groups and attempts to listen in on any conversations. He thinks to himself "I must learn this simple language. Looks like I'll be dealing with orcs forever...". He looks carefuly at the entrance of the place and if it is not warded with magic he will fly into the castle proper and see if he can determine what al the fuss is about. He then returns to the group and reports.
Milo Tuesday October 22nd, 2002 8:24:48 PM
Milo listens thoughtfully to Olana, then, when she is through, he acknowledges her dilemma, "Boy I don't know how folks back home would feel... though Ma was always awfully accepting... I suppose I was quite the handful growing up. Anyways, the path of care it is, though I must say, I don't think that folks like us were ever meant to live anything that resembles a 'normal' life." Milo's face quirks up and the halfling's smile is like sunshine.
[Later] Milo's whistle comes low between his teeth, "K'nara, that is a lot of orcs... what would you propose we do? I could get a whole lot closer if need be, Olana is good and quiet... and I'm sure some spellcasting would solve the rest of ya'll's noise issues... if you wanna get a closer look." Milo looks sideways at Lian and winks.
Figment, cont. Tuesday October 22nd, 2002 8:26:33 PM
During the trip, the mage works with Ingrge as they atempt to determine the correct course of action on spell casting. He notes his aggitation over the development between Olana and Milo. He tries dilligently to not razz him too much about being carried out like a sack of potatoes by K'Nara - but knows at some point when things get less intense that he'll certainly bring it up... :)
Olana Tuesday October 22nd, 2002 11:42:56 PM
"I think we should try and stick together," says the elf, looking around warily at all the orcs and other minions that Mount Bone seemed to be sucking in.
"I have to admit - I'm curious."
As for Ingrge....... she is struggling to find a way to approach him, and talk through whatever is going on.
Lian d20+14=22 d20+4=24 d20+16=22 Wednesday October 23rd, 2002 1:52:52 AM
The monk looks down at the halfling with a slight smile on his face. "I am sure Figment has it under control. However, I will go with you if you like."
Pulling Milo off to one side, Lian states his concerns privately. (Chris, I'll email this to you)
If Milo, Lian and Olana head off to investigate:
Lian travels cautiously with the ranger and justicar. Whispering to Milo before getting to far into the nest of Orcs. "Do not go and disappear on us Milo, I could not find if you were standing in front of me. Do not hide unless you need to." The monk gives a sly wink and with that moves quietly (22) and makes an effort to hide (nat 20 =24). As he goes he listens (22) for the 'common, sylvan or draconic' languages among the Orcs, maybe the common speakers are the ones to watch out for, they might be spell casters or leaders. He expresses this quietly to his friends.
"If there is a dead orc body nearby or close to where the three of us are spying, we should examine it for cause of death." Says the monk thoughtfully. "I am studying Anatomy, it would be interesting to see an orc body in relatively good condition, one that has not been burnt or otherwise dismembered." He says with a macabre undertone.
K'Nara Wednesday October 23rd, 2002 7:10:07 AM
The female fighter scowled--orcs, orcs everywhere, and not a drop of blood to spill (not if the group wanted to remain unnoticed, that is.)
"All right, Figment--see what you can find out." K'Nara agreed with the mage reluctantly. "Lian and Milo can do ground recon at the same time--all of you be careful--and come back with what you've seen. I'm pretty sure we have to get over to that tower, somehow...I need ideas on the best way to do that."
Olana Wednesday October 23rd, 2002 11:30:26 AM
After listening to the discussions, Olana will stay on guard with K'Nara. "Be careful," she whispers to Milo.
Ingrge Wednesday October 23rd, 2002 9:12:28 PM
after telling Figment that he didn't like the look of the shadoy areas and to avoid them if at all possible, Ingrge makes his way back to the K'nara and Olanna. Without looking at Olanna Ingrge bruskly says I've got the first two watches. I need to think. You to get some sleep. that said he moves to an area about 30 yards out from the ladies and starts walking a perimeter.
DM Kent Wednesday October 23rd, 2002 9:42:36 PM
Figment finds that getting in to Mount Bone any way but as a prisoner is going to prove more than just a bit more than near impossible. In addition any time he gets near to the shadows he senses great dismay and evil. Figment also sees that the closer to the mountain he gets the more organized the groups seem to be. He cant closer than a 1/4 mile due to the fact that there are several large flying things flying around the mountains summit.
Milo and Lian head out on their ground reconnaisance and don't get nearly as far as they though they might because they come a young single human working his way somewhere in the dark. [enter Orson]
Figment d20+7=26 d20+18=25 Wednesday October 23rd, 2002 10:45:06 PM
The mage observes for awhile, avoiding the flying things. He attempts to deduce what the big event seems to be. He also looks around for any prisoners and any magic in the area (Int DC 26, Spellcraft 25).
Orson d20+4=12 d20+4=21 d20+7=14 d20+7=19 Thursday October 24th, 2002 12:58:51 AM
The human makes is way through the dark, relying only on the light given off by the electricty that courses over the blade of his sword in his left hand. Hes a young man, maybe early twenties, long red hair hanging over the chain shirt that he wears. He glances around as he hesitates in his movements, gripping the hilts longswords he wields in anticipation. He continues walking forward slowly, glancing about nervously and sending worried looks toward the larger groups of orcs, hoping he hasn't been noticed. [OOC: Listen Check DC 12, Spot Check DC 21, to notice anyone in the area I may wish to avoid, or not avoid, whichever it may be. Hide DC 14, Move Silently DC 19 to attempt to remain unnoticed]
Orson (correction)... Thursday October 24th, 2002 1:15:10 AM
[That would be a DC 13 Hide, and DC 18 Move Silent, Forgot to include the armor check penatly on my sheet. Sorry.]
Milo d20+28=39 d20+25=45 d20+10=19 d20+11=29 Thursday October 24th, 2002 1:23:34 AM
Looking into Olana's eyes, the halfling smiles and winks, "Hey... its me..." Then with a flourish, Milo wends his way down into the orcs,using all his resources to full effect. Seeing the human lad, Milo circles the boy, attempting to get a closer look without being noticed. (OOC: Made Hide and Move Silently checks DCs 39 and 45 respectively, then Spot and Listen checks DCs 19 and 29 respectively.)
Lian d20+16=34 d20+6=23 d20+14=32 d20-1=5 d20+4=22 Thursday October 24th, 2002 3:35:06 AM
Taking his eye off Milo, if only for a moment, notices Milo's gone a moment later. Then the elf sees the boy, but doesn't make it obvious to the young man. The graceful elven male searchs a random corpse, keeping a suspicious eye on the kid. (Listen 34 and Spot 23, focused on Orson) He moves quickly and quietly passes over the corpses (32).
Then he looks quickly up at the human boy startled (Bluff of 5). Whispering to the boy, "What are you doing in this place? Not a good place for one so young." States the elf with a raised eyebrow. "Are you sure your in the right place, young man?" He asks as if he knows what the young man might actually be doing there (Sense Motive 22). With this line of questioning, Lian hopes to keep the young humans attention trained on him. (Milo, your up ;-) )
Orson sees an elf (relatively young looking) with no apparent weaponry, wearing a heavily used traveling cloak and NO armor. He's about 5'3" and slight of build. The elf is quite graceful and fleet of foot. He has long platnum blonde braids coming out of the top of his head with the sides shaved bald. His eyes show great age and wisdom.
Olana Thursday October 24th, 2002 5:42:47 PM
Olana stays with the horses, trying to keep them quiet. She doesn't like this place. There's too many of the enemy lurking nearby, and the land looks ruined and without life. What was going on in Mount Bone, she had no idea - but if at any point it failed to enthrall the vermin that flocked toward it, the Talons could be in big trouble. 'As soon as we're done, we're getting out of here fast, aren't we?' she asks K'Nara in a low whisper.
DM Kent Thursday October 24th, 2002 9:40:03 PM
Olanna and K'nara have their conversation about leaving this area as Ingrge continues his solitary rounds.
From the distance up and the fact that its night makes it very difficult for Figment to tell what's going on. His best guess would be a tourney of some sort.
Orson watching the elf, Lian, never even realizes that there is a halfling standing just out of blade reach there behind him.
With quick introductions and a warning to not go ofr any weapons the three lads head back to the camp.
Ingrge, while not completely sulking, is still certainly out of sorts at the current situation. He is in, in fact, so caught up in his confusion that he nearly steps on the young man looking in on toward the camp. Ingrge can't see but does smell the nearby horse. Not drawing his sword or staff, Ingrge looks down at the young man. 'May I help you with something, or are you just staring off into the distance.' [enter maloray]
after a brief intro Ingrge leads his young charge and horse back into the camp and to the talons leader.
Orson Thursday October 24th, 2002 10:15:12 PM
Orson observes the young elf cautiously, but not totally untrusting, as he doesnt appear to be a threat.
"I know where I am, Old Man, and am quite certain this is were I wanted to be" he replies to the elfs inquiries. "Although I hadnt realized the great numbers of those I came to deal with," glancing toward the larger tribes of orcs.
He lowers his dual longswords to a non-threatening position, and advances some. "So what are YOU doing out here, at your delicate old age?" he inquires with a smirk.
If the monk shows no hostility, Orson whispers away his sword's enchantment, and sheaths his weapons. "My name is Orson," he states, and pauses for the elf to reply.
"Well as much as I would love to sit here and converse, I beleive we should get to a less hostile place to do so. The bloody greenskins can wait to die until tomorrow."
Orson is quite suprised when Milo shows himself (IF he shows himself), and goes through another round of introductions.
If offered, he will help them get out of the hostile territory (or get rescued by them, depending on whose point of veiw).
Maloray Maloreyn'n Thursday October 24th, 2002 11:28:35 PM
Ingrge sees a short (5'3"), wiry young man with sandy brown hair bound in a single braid down to the middle of his back. Slightly pointed ears reveal elven blood.
The half elf wears a chain shirt over a leather undershirt, a loincloth which seems to be made of some type of animal fur, and leather boots laced up to mid-calf.
A wicked-looking axe dangles from his belt and a well-made longbow is slung diagonally from right shoulder to left hip.
Completing the picture, a silver amulet in the form of an owl head rests upon his chest.
The half-elf's mustang is saddled and bridled for travel, a large sack hanging from one side of the saddle and a cloth-wrapped bundle about five feet long is tied to the other.
Maloray examines the elf before him for a long moment before replying.
"Well met, westerner. I am Maloray Maloreyn'n Magdorn'd of the Owl Clan, whose hunting grounds lie to the east."
Maloray glances towards the mountain and rests his hand on the head of his axe before returning his gaze to Ingrge.
"Are you an orc foe?"
Milo Friday October 25th, 2002 12:27:08 AM
Milo appears as if emerging from the ground itself, standing between Orson and Lian. "Greetings, did you get lost? You don't look much like an orc to me... and mostly what I see out there... are orcs. Well.. and one noisy elf." Milo winks a Lian, and the halfling grins from ear to ear. Looking over a K'nara, Milo reports everything he has seen, "I don't think that we'll be able to get through that as a group. I might be able to go it alone, but even that would be risky." Report given, Milo drifts through the group to stand silently next to Olana.
Milo is tall for a halfling, standing four feet, he can look most dwarves in the eye, and his build is slim and athlethic. His short light brown hair is neat and straight, and his blue eyes seem to constantly shift between mirth and business. Milo is wrapped in a generous cloak, spun of the finest cloth, whose colors seem to shift and blur to match the scenery around him. It is bound with an ornate periapt bearing the symbol of Pantheon, the symbol of a justicar. At one hip is a bejeweled short sword resting in a well worn scabbard.
Olana Friday October 25th, 2002 1:20:57 AM
At some point, Olana becomes aware that Ingrge has returned with a stranger - a male half elf. She raises an eyebrow, watching them walk toward camp, and then alerts K'Nara if their leader hasn't already spotted them. "Ingrge has found someone," she says.
(Presuming Lian, Milo and Orson return soon after)
She is further intrigued as Milo and Lian return with another, too. Human, this one by the looks of it.
Whoever they were, they both looked well armed. She looks them both over curiously as they arrive, but will leave the talking to K'Nara.
~~Orson and Maloray will see a pretty female elf, 5 ft tall, dressed in dark leathers that look as though they have been taken apart and re-stitched to fit properly. Her blonde hair is scraped back and braided - not as long as it was, due to an unfortunate 'accident' in the hills a few days back. Her green wool cloak looks worn, but servicable. The ranger is armed with blades, and bow.~~
Her solemn demeanor is broken with a smile as Milo arrives back in one piece. In truth - she was glad to see them all. She hated this place. But where was Figment?
Lian d20+4=10 Friday October 25th, 2002 4:11:10 AM
To Orson, the elf bows nearly in half. "I am Lian Siannodel, elf of the Culverwood area, Hei Tu Temple monk and aspiring Talon Monk. My Friends here are the Emerald Talons." The monk starts back to his friends, with the lost one. "That slick halfling... urg, where did he slip to, is Milo Thistledown, what they call a Justicar in his trade, whatever that is, have not quite figured that one out yet. Should I tell you of the others...? no, that is bad form, I will let THEM do that. Oh, before we get to the site, let me tell you! The stern elven brethren is Ingrge, he may not take kindly at first, but he is a kind sort once you get to know him." The elf turns to Orson as if what he said just dawned on the elf. "Old? Delicate? I will have you know, YOUNG MAN, that while you were in diapers, I was more than likely in my eightieth year in the temple." He replies calmly to the humans otherwise insulting remark.
Getting back to the group, Lian introduces the newly found drifter. "Aw, it seems that there is another on here as well. You know each other?" The elven monk bows to Maloray (Sense Motive on Maloray, 10). "Fond tidings.... furry one, I mean no disrespect of course, for I do not yet know your name, I am Lian Siannodel. Hey, is that a dwarven axe? I have a friend who has one like that." The wisdom and experience Orson saw initially in the elven monk turns to youthful curiousity directed at the new half elven kin.
K'Nara Friday October 25th, 2002 8:13:45 AM
"Olana, not even owning Parnoth's treasure trove would be enough to keep me here longer than we absolutely have to be..!" the human bladesinger assured the ranger.
Once Orson and Maloray were brought to the camp and to K'Nara's attention, the new arrivals saw the following:
Standing with the elven female was a human woman whose size, build and mien were most unusual: she was six feet tall and fair of skin (save for some freckles across her nose and cheeks.) Though the net snood that encompassed her chestnut-colored hair made it impossible to judge its length, those strands that strayed from the hairnet's confines confirmed that her hair is extremely wavy--if not downright curly. She wore a mithral shirt over a bayrah (a tunic-like dress that has triangular hemming in the front and the back of the garment; it allows the legs to move freely while retaining a modest knee-length hem) and soft boots that laced up to just under her knees. On her back, in a sheath that allowed her to draw the weapon from behind her right shoulder, was a large bastard sword that both Orson and Maloray got the unshakeable feeling that the woman they were viewing knew only too well how to use to deadly effectiveness.
The human turns and eyed both newcomers most critically, her hazel gaze expertly assessing the combat qualities of each male.
"I'm K'Nara." she said tersely in a voice that smacked of self-confidence. "I am honored to be the leader of the Emerald Talons, and pleased to meet you. Have either of you seen anything that may help my group as we try to assess this tower, the army and their purposes for being in the region?"
Ingrge Friday October 25th, 2002 11:09:06 AM
As Maloray introduces himself, he nearly makes a fatal mistake and Ingrge's eyes go cold and dark. Barely restraining himself, Ingrge retains his temper and with perfect control in his voice answers this impudent halfbreed. My name is Ingrge Nightseer, I originally hail from North of the Culverwood and if you want to keep your head in place youngling, don't ever insinuate that an elf could ever be anything but an enemy to one of those godless Yrch.
Ingrge is a tall, nearly 5 1/2 ft tall elf, with nearly pitch black hair and emerald green eyes. He is wearing gray leather armor over which rides a hooded gray robe. he seems to be brisling with weapons, including a bow, several daggers, two rapiers, and a staff.
As they get back K'nara, Ingrge leads the young halfelf up and introduces him. I came across this youngling and figured I shouldn't let him be kiled by our green friends. He calls himself Maloray Maloreyn'n Magdorn'd of the Owl Clan, whose hunting grounds lie to the east.
Ingrge in turn greets Orson and shakes his head in wonder at that two, wondering if he was ever that young.
after a moment Ingrge Turns back to K'nara and in a break in the conversation interjects.
'K'nara, Parnoth never said we had to get in to the tower. He said go to the tower and make a report of what we see. We are here we have seen, we have quite a bit to report. I say we do so in the morning and then we get out of here.' There are some that just aren't the right type of company for an elf to keep.'
DM Kent Friday October 25th, 2002 11:14:08 AM
Introductions are made and when Figment returns the rest of the night passes smoothly and without incident.
[OK all, I am withdrawing the one post rule for now until the new game starts on monday get to know each other, in character, deal with whatever issues you need to deal with, make your report to parnoth, etc. and I will post when necessary tonite and throughout the weekend. It has once again been enjoyable being your DM, even if I could't kill any of you this round. I will send out experience this weekend.]
Orson Friday October 25th, 2002 11:49:29 AM
"Exactly, eighty years is pretty old for me....in comparison, old man." he says jokingly to the young elf, who obvious is neither old nor delicate.
As Orson makes his way into camp, he too eyes wach person, attempting to assess each persons skills. His gaze lingers on K'Nara, and a look of sorrow, almost pain, covers his face for a brief moment, before continuing his inspection of the rest of the group. He in turn greets everyone, even the other new arrival.
Orson stands around 5 and a half feet, and is in quite good physical condition. His long red hair hangs freely down a little past his shoulders. He wears a well made, and well worn chain shirt over a simple surcoat, and leather breeches, tucked into boots laced most of the way up his calf.
Lian Friday October 25th, 2002 4:40:27 PM
"K'Nara, may I speak with alone for just a moment?" He gesters for Milo (if he's anywhere to be seen) to follow.
The elven monk takes the bladesinger off to oneside and states his concerns. "Now, I know your the Talons experienced leader, and I assume you were not jaded by my arrival at first. I showed up in your group in a relatively safe enviroment. Now, I mean no disrespect by stating this. WE MUST BE CAREFUL with these ones regardless of their cander or demeanor. They survived, somehow, out in there. Be it, by there wits, by dumb luck or by paying off the ugly Greenies. They hadn't even met each other prior to this. I just find it rather... convienient. Parnoth might be testing us, these could be his minions. I have a good feeling about the newcomers though, but I am going to be cautious to say the least for the next couple of days. I suggest no watches by themselves for sometime and possibly relying on Ingrge to watch them, it'll give him something else to occupy his mind, especially if you ask him to do that as a personal favor to you K'Nara." The elf waits for the leader to say something.
Maloray Friday October 25th, 2002 4:51:45 PM
Maloray shrugs and grins at Ingrge, his teeth bright against his deeply tanned skin.
"Gods or no, my axe thirsts for their black blood," he says fiercely.
He follows the elf back to the camp.
(Lian speaks)
"Your words do not shame me, elf. There is no dishonor in the wearing of rabbit skin. Owls have long hunted rabbits."
He grins widely before answering the elf's other question.
"Drinker is not a dwarven axe, it was an Orc axe and now it is an Owl axe, taken from the cold fingers of an orc feathered with my arrows."
Tracing the etchings on the side of the blade, he adds thoughtfully
"It is a better tool in my hand than it was in his."
(Hearing Ingrge speak to K'nara)
"Who is Parnoth?"
Orson Friday October 25th, 2002 7:47:56 PM
As Lian pulls K'Nara and Milo to the side, Orson moves over to speak with Maloray. In a quiet tone, "So, this is the part where they decide on whether they are going to trust us or not, i think."
After a moment, he continues in a louder voice, "So Maloray, what are you doing out in a wretched place such as this?" Orson asks as he unslings his sword sheaths from his back, setting them on the ground. He then sits down beside them, and retrieves a waterskin from a sack hanging on his side. After talking a long draw, he holds it out toward the half-elf, wordlessly asking if hed like a drink.
Speaking aloud to the group as a whole "Was hoping for a little action tonight from the greenskins, only heard there they were here, but not in such numbers. Ingrge, is that right", he glances to the elf, assuring his pronunciation is correct, "Ingrge said you where sent here to scout...do you know why they gather in such numbers?, and what they are up too?"
Ingrge Friday October 25th, 2002 9:54:35 PM
Well, we had heard that they were catching wayward humans and the such and turning them into orc breeders, so we here to see if that was true or not, and if so to try and get them to change their minds, but then you know how rumors start.
Maloray d20=20 Saturday October 26th, 2002 12:28:19 AM
Maloray accepts the water skin from the human and sniffs at it cautiously.
(Sense Motive on Orson: 20)
If it seems alright, he'll take a drink and then fix the human with his gaze for a moment.
He gestures at his horse and says in a completely serious tone: "Howler smelled Orcs and this is where he brought me. Good horse, that one."
If anything in Orson's face reveals confusion or disbelief, Maloray will give a lowd guffaw before striding over to the horse and adjusting its load.
If not, Maloray lets the comment hang as if it's the gospel truth.
Orson Saturday October 26th, 2002 12:33:44 AM
Orson chuckles loudly, "Heh, that's me...Orc Breeder Extrordinare! Might take a lot of convincing to get me to make me hate them horrid greenskins." After a very short pause, "Ok, im convinced."
Answering K'Naras question, "Truthfully, I dont know much about what they are all doing here, I had just here rumors of bands of orcs in the area, so decided to take care of them. Got in pretty far before I realized how many there actually were, and then ran across the old man here....I just really hate orcs." When he says the last part, his voice fills with anger, and his face with the same sorrowful look he had when he first saw K'Nara. He coughs and clears his throught, taking another long drink for his waterskin.
[No posting limit, must abuse it while I can!!!]
Milo Saturday October 26th, 2002 3:02:35 PM
Milo listens to Lian, nodding, "I understand your concern, but the two of them hardly look like terrorists." Moving away from the huddle, Milo looks up at the sky, silently praying to Pantheon for wisdom and patience, and then moves back to Olana, where he stands by her side. Milo reaches out to give her hand a playful squeeze, and then considering the feelings of some of his other friends, lets go, following up with a quick wink.
K'Nara Saturday October 26th, 2002 6:56:29 PM
When Ingrge pointed out the Talons' mission to her, K'Nara suddenly grinned.
"Why, Ingrge Nightseer..!" she said teasingly. "You aren't seriously suggesting that we go by the semantic letter of what our most beloved and revered monarch has decreed, are you?" Her hazel eyes glowed, as though enjoying some secret joke. Before any questions could be asked about it, however, the female fighter continued to address the Talons' second-in-command:
"However, you ARE right--we can report our findings to the big Green Meanie with a clear conscience...it's just that I, myself, am curious as to what may have brought all these wastrels into this area and why. It's already adversely effected places like Fort Hospitality."
When Lian offered his own advice, the redhead nodded and replied in a voice meant for only the monk's ears: "Yes, I know...I'm not likely to hand over the keys to our weapons cache to them and go to sleep, Lian. But--I'll have a word with Ingrge about keeping a specially watchful eye on them." Which, at her first opportunity, K'Nara does.
It was Maloray's question that raised the warrior woman's eyebrows the most, though.
"WHO is Parnoth?" K'Nara echoed, having overheard the question. "Either you've been extremely sheltered all your life, Maloray, or you're jesting in some inexplicable way, because Parnoth is the big green dragon that my group and I promised to report to--he has declared himself the ruler of the Emerald Kingdom for the past few centuries and has been draining the life and love out of the forest that gives this land its name." K'Nara eyed the half-elf a bit suspiciously.
"However, I'd advise against direct opposition to the assembled orcs...at least not at this very moment." K'Nara addressed Orson. "There are far too many of them here...and I am still very, very suspicious about who or what drew them to this spot...and why."
(OOC: hmmm...how are the Talons supposed to report to Parnoth? I don't recall the almighty Green One giving the group any of his patented eavesdropping devices or magical item that allows them to do this in "real time"...therefor, the only way for the group to tell Parnoth of what's there is for them to turn around and go back to Emerald City to report in person, yes..?)
Maloray Saturday October 26th, 2002 8:36:27 PM
At K'Nara's comments, Maloray stretches and yawns.
"Never heard of him. So why doesn't somebody just slay the big lizard and be done with it?"
Maloray looks challengingly at the big woman, not realizing he's said something stupid.
DM KENT Saturday October 26th, 2002 10:22:44 PM
[OOC ROG, ALL COPACETIC TO ME]
INGRGE RAISES AN EYEBROW AT k'NARA'S COMMENT AND THEN LEANS OVER AND WHISPERS SOMETHING IN HER EAR ABOUT MOP HANDING HER A WRAPPED BUNDLE AS THEY LEFT AND THELLING HER SOMETHING ABOUT USING IT TO REPORT ONCE WE GOT TO WHERE WE WERE GOING.
SOMETHING VERY STRANGE IS GOING ON AT THE MOUNTAIN. IT SEEMS AS THEOUGH SOME SORT OF STORM IS BREWING. THE CLOUDS ABOVE THE ,MOUNTIAN ARE SWIRLING AND TURNING ALL KINDS OF PERTY COLORS. AND THERE ARE MANY LIGHTENING BOLTS SHOOTING UPWARD FROM THE MOUNTAIN.
Orson Saturday October 26th, 2002 10:44:02 PM
"Well as long as your going to deal with some orcs in one way or another, I wouldn't mind joining ya, at least for a while. Nice having other people around, and my arms won't get quite so tired if I don't have to handle all these orcs myself. Although i agree the head-on aproach might not be the brightest plan, even if you do have me."
"Not sure if I'd like working for Parnoth though, not really my ideal employer, but we can see how things go."
[Assuming they are in a fairly safe camping spot, if not, this will happen when they are in a safe place to camp :)] "Well im going to catch some shut eye, now that i got someone else to watch my back while i sleep. Pleasure meeting everyone, and if you need me to take a watch just wake me and let me know." Orson slides his chain shirt off, tossing it carelessly on the ground next to him. He slides a bedroll out of his large sack, and unrolls it near the chain shirt. He carefully places his sheathed swords on top of his armor, being quick gentle with them, them lyes down on the bed roll, using the remaining items within the large sack as a pillow.
He continues to listen to the groups conversations as he closes his eyes to try to get some sleep.
Maloray Saturday October 26th, 2002 11:55:28 PM
Maloray turns to check on his mustang and sees the commotion around the mountain.
Untying his long, wrapped bundle from the saddle (anybody who cares to look can tell it's a wrapped sword, probably a greatsword. The shape of the crossguard kind of gives it away), he gestures towards the scene.
"Looks like we might be in for some weather."
He walks over and sits on a nearby rock.
K'Nara Sunday October 27th, 2002 6:51:32 AM
After Ingrge reminded her about the wrapped bundle Parnoth's assistant Mop had handed over, the leader of the Talons nodded--she'd forgotten about it in all the strange events that effected her group since agreeing to come investigate what was happening in the Mount Bone vicinity.
"Why hasn't anyone..?" K'Nara began to echo Maloray's words, blinking in astonishment. Then a slow but very sincere grin spread across her face. Suddenly the half-elf found himself in a brief but tight hug--a sensation that was not unpleasant, for (while certainly not buxom) K'Nara's physique was that of a supple athlete with curves in all the right places.
"I love you, Maloray!" she said in a voice that expressed extreme approval of his question. The human bladesinger released the half-elf and continued: "It was the fact that Izen and their Dark Lord--whom we now know is the deity of disease, Marteaus--were eyeing the Emerald Kingdom as a land to be conquered that kept the Green One's head from gracing the trophy wall of dragonslayers...Parnoth has been crafty enough to exert just the right kind of influence to keep Izen's forces from invading the country, you see--as bad as Parnoth is for a ruler, Marteaus is infinitely worse."
K'Nara turned her attention to removing Mop's package from her backpack--and was reminded of the items she'd manage to get from the Catacombs while at Fort Hospitality.
"Here..." the warrior woman handed Olana some potion bottles, "...I got everyone a Light healing potion--and could you give these Moderate potions to Milo and Figment as well..?" (OOC: everyone in the Talons group gets one Cure Light Wounds potion--except the newcomers [for now]. Milo and Figment each get one Cure Moderate Wounds potion as well.)
The redhead then set about unwrapping Parnoth's "present" to the Talons, the sudden climatic disturbance causing her to glance at the mountain--and then unwrap faster.
Maloray Sunday October 27th, 2002 9:50:12 AM
As K'Nara grabs him for her bear hug, Maloray gives a high-pitched squawk of indignation. When she releases him, he turns away muttering under his breath, rearranging his various weapons and accoutrements and brushing himself off. But it's plain to all present that he's not really upset - his protestations are just a reaction to his stark surprise at her sudden affection.
When she begins talking again, he returns to his rock to listen.
After her explanation about Izen and Marteaus, Maloray nods slowly, still looking puzzled. There's something not quite right about it, but he can't put his finger on it.
Milo Sunday October 27th, 2002 1:10:03 PM
Milo speaks up, "Perhaps the forces arrayed before us are a planned invasion... which is why Parnoth, dumb as he is, wanted us to check this place out to begin with. The overgrown lizard is afraid that Marteus may be planning to attack the Emerald Kingdom." Milo thinks for a moment, "So how do we stop an impressively sized army of orcs? Who would help? Maybe Parnoth knows."
Figment Sunday October 27th, 2002 4:53:14 PM
The mage lands back at camp and introduces himself as a caster. He looks on as K'Nara opens the package. "I wonder what kind of present our 'liege' (said with sarcasm) has prepared for us...".
Figment Sunday October 27th, 2002 4:54:32 PM
OOC: Sorry folks, I have no dial tone in my new apartment and won't for another week. I'm afraid Figment will have to wonder around unless someone would care to post for him. Sorry.
Olana Sunday October 27th, 2002 5:06:53 PM
Olana's own grip tightens a little on Milo's hand briefly, then she remembers her manners and walks over to the two newcomers.
"Hi," says the elf with a pleasant smile. "My name is Olana. If you guys are hungry, you're welcome to share rations."
KENT Sunday October 27th, 2002 5:35:07 PM
[OOC David, I will post for figment if you want for the next few days.]
LOG ON