DM Anthony Wednesday February 12th, 2003 11:16:19 AM
The pace becomes brutal. Through the tall grass you quickly glance the huge rock outcropping you all knew to be in this direction. It seems that this is where the Manfri are taking you. Gry notices that the Manfri run and move quite fast on their own, perhaps even faster that him, its difficult to know for sure but they may even be holding back. As the pace continues mistakes, accidents begin to happen. Another Manfri falls behind taken by the hunters and another, and another. Each time, although the Manfri don't stop at these deaths there is always the collective and slightly disturbing group shout of. "Run" Soon the rock outcropping is drawing nearer and nearer until as one you all burst out into a flat semicircle of sand at the base of the rock. The Manfri that are left take you across the clearing and then turn to face the rushing hunters, the small men and women taking up arms. Again as one they look at you and in a hauntingly slow voice they chant.
"Should the Dekteth set foot upon the Taudo then Kall'a'tek must be inacted. None may leave until the ceremony is complete. If you wish to leave you must leave now."
Then as one they turn to the grass and stare out at the edge of the circle of the grass. As you all catch your breath you see the grass moving around the edge. An old Manfri seems to suddenly appear behind you. More Manfri appear all around the rock. Crawling out of crags and holes. Hundreds appear. Smiling up at you the old Manfri sighs as he watches the grass rustle. "The Dekteth decide if they are strong enough to take the Taudo. None but the hunted may take part in the ceremony. If the Dekteth succeed in killing all the runners, the Taudo and all our lives are forfeit. However if the runners succeed in driving the Dekteth from the base of the Taudo, or killing them all then the Dekteth may not hunt this Taudo again for another full season. You ran with them and may choose to stand with them. Few got back and the band of Dekteth seems to be greater than we have seen in many seasons. Your help could be what turns the ceremony. However you are not of the people and are not bound by our laws or magic. Should you leave now you will make it home safe, but what ever your choice the time of choosing is now. There is no shame in fleeing from death, we would flee if we could but the Kall'a'tek once inacted will not allow that choice."
The old man points and wispers "It begins."
Out of the Grass steps the long thin-scaled leg of a beast. It is a Rapke. Looking like a huge armored chicken plucked bare and armored in black and green scales. The head is lizard like and upon the back sits a rider. A male human. It is death itself. Once it steps into the ring of sand the Manfri who ran with you begin to glow with a pale white light. Hands bear down on weapons. Teeth are gritted. Battle is near. Death is near. The first Rapke is joined by another, and yet another. All appear surrounded with an aura of blackness as if the very light was sucked in and refused to let go. Five Rapke and four bounders enter the ring. More sit outside the ring but do not enter. The one common denominator of those within the ring is that all have fresh blood on their bodies and mouths, including the riders. Looking down you notice your own bodies flicker with auras. One moment it flickers white, another a voidless black, and another no aura at all. The choice is upon you. Somehow by instinct or magic you know that by stepping on the sand and concentrating you can force that aura black or white, or by turning away it will go away and that the memory of all this will slip away and you wont even remember it by the time you get home. The choice is yours but you must make it now because the Kall'a'tek begins.
Milo Wednesday February 12th, 2003 11:50:05 AM
huffing and puffing, almost heaving, he tries his best to catch his breath. watching his savious prepare for battle against these obvious unsurmountable odds, Milo can think of nothing else but joining their ranks. stepping up on to the sand, he concentrates on goodness. invoking White. looking up at the nearest Rapke, he pulls out a large cast iron skillet in his left hand, and his gnarled wood wand in the other.
Trellus (Bless) Wednesday February 12th, 2003 12:47:17 PM
Trellus barely pauses. As a servant of the Protector, how can he not help? And these people have saved his life as well.
The rest of the tribe won't help save their own lives? Now that's a totally sunbaked rule.
The cleric's aura turns white as he casts a Bless spell.
Trellus looks to see if all the Rapke and Bounders carry riders, and if those riders are humanoid enough to risk a HOLD PERSON spell.
"Dudes,we need to stick together and focus our picks on one or two at a time," he says, confident that most of the pack will make the same choice he did.
Sterlin (barkskin) Wednesday February 12th, 2003 1:58:35 PM
Sterlin steps into the sand with a spider on his left and right. His aura turns white as he prepares to cast a spell.
Anuk d20+6=25 Wednesday February 12th, 2003 2:12:29 PM
Anuk feels the magic surrounding him and this place -- it makes him anxious and he frets over the decision. Run safely or stand and fight? He looks over the vicious creatures and their riders, taking in the details, hoping to find a point of weakness (spot 25). He's frightened, but the memory of the dead manfri and the protection they offered the pack stays with him. He draws his bow, nocks an arrow, and holds it at the ready.
"I'm in."
Jacob Wednesday February 12th, 2003 4:33:35 PM
Jacob sighs...his pack is obviously crazy. If he were sane, he'd run away, or at least hide behind Grymash. But instead, he draws his sword and a large wooden shield, and stands ready next to him. He softly says to the big guy the most he's said all day: "Yo, shadester...looks like we're gonna have to fight this thing. Er...if I don't survive, could you tell that Dancer girl that, well, I kinda wanted to ask her out...but, oh, hell, she's not part of our pack anyways. Screw it. Let's kill this thing. I'll take the first shot, and you try to get around it." Obviously somewhat frazzled, and feeling scared, Jake nevertheless holds his resolve and stands ready.
Grymash (bulls strength, shield of faith, expeditious retreat, bless) d20=18 2d6(6+1)+3=10 d100=16 Wednesday February 12th, 2003 11:35:57 PM
Grymash prays to Gargul for strength. "These foul hunters take your gifts of life in the name of sport. The souls of the innocent beg for your vengence ... may you bless us and allow us to send these hunters to you for your final judgement."
Grymash enters the circle, he grips his double axe tightly. He embraces the white aura not knowing or understanding what it means. He notices the negative auras of the hunters. So Grymash decides to flood the area with the positive energy of his deity.
(Grymash attempts to flood the area with positive energy with his Turning ability. Roll 18 for a +2 to clerics level.)
Holding up the grass woven holy symbol of Gargul, that was given to him by the manfri, Grymash releases a holy wave of positive energy ( an area of 60-ft extended from the barbarian cleric.).
Grymash knows if melee combat begins he will give into his rage.
Gilan[Summon Nature's Ally I-badger] Thursday February 13th, 2003 12:30:00 AM
Gilan does not hesitate as he steps down onto the sand with his friends...no his pack. He is soon surrounded by the white aura that the rest are surrounded in. He pulls up his bow and nocks an arrow to the string as he keeps behind the group. "To the death then." He mutters the divine litany of a druid and calls upon an ally to appear and help them out. The badger will appear near a bounder and attack it first.
[Quick question: Are my shield and scimitar still back in the grass or did someone pick them up for me. Just wanting to get an idea of what weapons I still had at my disposal. Oh...and if the badger is not a suitable creature to summon up, let me know what would be more appropriate.]
OOC: A badger is fine, you have your stuff.
DM Anthony : Round 1 : Reactions Thursday February 13th, 2003 2:26:19 PM
Trellus sees that there are no riders on the bounders and there never could be, however all the riders upon the Rapke are humanoid. The Bless spell settles over party and Manfri.
Gry sees nothing to turn but the energy from his presence also settles over the battle field.
Gilan summons a badger.
DM Anthony : Round 1 : Actions d20+8=14 d20+8=16 d20+8=16 d20+8=20 d20+8=25 d20+8=28 d20+8=28 d20+8=18 d20+8=22 d20+8=23 d20+8=25 d20+8=21 d20+8=12 d20+8=16 d20+8=19 d20+8=16 d20+8=24 d20+8=12 d4+2=6 d4+2=3 d4+2=6 d4+2=4 d4+2=6 d4+2=4 d4+2=3 d4+2=4 d4+2=6 d4+2=5 Thursday February 13th, 2003 2:39:09 PM
The Rapke scream as one and the fear settles over the battle field. (Will DC 12 of be stuned for 1d4 rounds) Then as one the bounders leap foreward and the Riders draw missile weapons.
The Manfri fire slings at the advancing bounders, striking 1 and 3 heavily.
Milo d20+5=20 d4+1=5 Thursday February 13th, 2003 6:19:57 PM
standin steafast up against unsurmounting opposition, Milo calmly points his wand at Rapke #1 and lets loose a Magic Missle.
(yeah, maxed out with 5 points of damage)
Milo attempts to position himself near the rear ranks at all times. not being a coward mind you, just not having any armor spells available right now.
Anuk d20+3=15 d20+8=27 d8+1=2 Thursday February 13th, 2003 7:47:31 PM
Anuk sees bounder #2 heading for manfri #1. Aiming his bow toward the bounder, he yells,"Gilan! Look!" hoping to catch Gilan's attention so they can both concentrate on saving manfri #1. Hoping to quickly reduce the numbers of the enemy, he lets the arrow fly (hits AC 27 for 2 points of damage).
(will save 15)
Jacob (AC 14 after charge, HP 29) d20+1=13 d20+8=14 d20+9=15 Thursday February 13th, 2003 11:23:40 PM
Jacob barely manages to hold his resolve as the Rapke screams. Knowing that they run faster than he, he waits for them to come closer, then charges and swings wildly at one. Unfortunately, his blade probably bounces off of the thick hide of the Rapke. After his failed attempt to hurt one, he's probably not doing so good.
(rolled a 14, forgot to count in the blessing, rerolled and got a 15. :P)
Grymash (ac 18, bulls strength, shield of faith, expeditious retreat, bless, RAGE) d20+8=28 d20+10=29 d20+10=24 d8+12=16 d8+12=19 d20+14=25 d8+12=18 Friday February 14th, 2003 12:02:27 AM
Grymash roars with jutting jaws and a mouth agape with tooth and fang. He bellows a cry of feral rage as if possessing the heart of a lion. (Will Save 28, perfect 20 ... ahh yeah)
Grymash steps forward 5-ft in front of the line of manfri. He swings his dreaded double axe with deadly precision and ferocity. He readies an action and waits for a bounder to approach and then Grymash will let loose his fury.
(Hit AC: 29 and 24 for 16 and 19 points of damage. Possible total: 35 damage.)
If a bounder looks like not to be moving in Grymash's direction he will instead charge the closest bounder, either 1 or 3 and attack. (Chargeing +2. Hit AC: 25 for 18 points of damage.)
Gilan d20+6=8 d4=2 d20+4=6 d4=2 Friday February 14th, 2003 5:12:11 AM
Once again the fear of the Rapke scream settles around Gilan. This time unstead of wanting to run he is just rooted to the ground and finds himself unable to move. He watches in horrid fascination as the bounders and rapke move into the group of Manfri and his pack.
The summoned badger also cowers in place as the roar washes over him. Though being smaller he may go unnoticed by the larger creatures.
[Gilan: will save of 9(with bless) and stunned for 2 rounds] [Badger: will save of 7(with bless0 and stunned for 2 rounds]
OOC: Seems that I just cannot catch a break here guys.
Trellus (AC19, Bless) d20+7=18 d20+7=9 Friday February 14th, 2003 8:18:17 AM
Trellus steels himself against the roar of the Rapke (save 18), and then watches the pack split up all over the place.
"Gry! Hit the wounded one!," he calls, and then launches himself at Bounder 1. However, his mace bounces harmlessly off the creature's armor plating (Ac 9, terrific).
DM Anthony : Round 2 : Reactions Friday February 14th, 2003 10:38:25 AM
Milo's magic wand is aimed at the Rapke yet when it strikes, it strikes the rider. Yet both seem to feel its pain.
Anuk wounds Bounder #2 slightly.
Grymash is able to step to Bounder #1 and unleash both attacks at the beast. Both attacks slicing deeply into the flesh of the monster. It suddenly seems heavily wounded.
Gilan is frozen with fear, but then a sudden feeling of warmth seeps into him. he feels the presence of Gry and of peace. He can move again, free and ready. He may act now as may his badger.
Trellus steps foreward to attack but is inefective
DM Anthony : Round 2 : Manfri d20+6=17 d20+6=21 d20+6=25 d20+6=20 d20+6=9 d6+4=10 3d6(3+2+6)+12=23 d4=3 d20+8=14 d20+8=22 d20+8=23 d20+8=23 d4+4=6 d4+4=5 d4+4=5 d20+6=22 d20+6=16 d20+6=21 d20+6=16 d20+6=22 d20+6=20 d6+4=7 d6+4=7 d6+4=9 d20+6=22 d20+6=7 d20+6=25 d20+6=13 d6+4=7 Friday February 14th, 2003 11:54:14 AM
Manfri #5 and #6 both drop their slings and pull form their backs a stout reed strung with a curved piece of steel grass from one end to the other. Manfri #5 does some damage however Manfri #6 hit seems to do more critacle damage. The wound seem to trickle more blood than the others.
Manfri #7 and #2 seeing the attack on Rapke #1 hitting three times.
Manfri #3, 4, and 8 also drop their slings and draw the strange weapons. Attacking bounder #3 and hitting 4 times.
Manfri #1 also draws one of the strange bladed objects. Hitting Bounder #2 once.
Sterlin (barkskin,bless ac: 18) d20+7=23 Friday February 14th, 2003 2:07:05 PM
Sterlin manages to stay as calm as is possible in this situation. He casts summon swarm on Rapke #1. (will save:23, spider #1 attack:
Sterlin (barkskin,bless ac: 18) d20+5=22 d4-2=-1 d3=3 d3=3 d20+5=23 d4-1=3 d3=1 d3=2 Friday February 14th, 2003 2:13:49 PM
(sorry hit submit instead of roll) Spider number 1 attacks bounder #1 and hits ac 22 and does the minimum of 1 point of damage. bounder number 1 save vs poison dc 11 or lose 3 points of strength initial then 3 more points of str secondary. Spider number 2 attacks bounder #1 and hits ac 23 and does 3 points of damage. bounder number 1 save vs poison dc 11 or lose 1 point of strength initial then 2 more points of str secondary.
Jacob (Bless, Hp 29-?, AC 16) d20+7=21 d20+8=23 d10+3=13 Friday February 14th, 2003 8:32:22 PM
Despite having the vicious creature's teeth tear into his shoulder and the rider further slamming arrows into his ribcage, Jacob hopefully manages to survive the attack. The poison dribbles out of the arrow, his gritty lifestyle having protected him from it (Saved DC 21). He sticks his sword into the creature's side with all his strength (Hit AC 23), watching it sink hilt deep and withdrawing it quickly, covered in the creature's blood... (13 damage! Wow!)
Gilan(Bless, HP: 25, AC: 14) d20+7=25 d20+6=18 d20+6=23 d20+5=14 d20+5=21 d8+3=9 d3+7=9 d3+7=9 d6=4 d6=3 d2-1=1 d2-1=0 Friday February 14th, 2003 9:05:23 PM
Gilan, having his awarness return to him for the second time this very day pulls up his bow and fires on bounder. He watches in satisfaction as his arrow tears into the bounders flesh.
Tiev and Yinb both take off and buzz around a rapske's head. They zoom in and brings their stingers to bear on the unprotected face of the rapske.
The badger also breaks free of the stunning effects that the rapske caused and with righteous anger turns on the nearest enemy. His claws tear into the monster as it tries to cause as much damage as possible.
[Gilan: attack bounder2, hit AC:26(bless), damage:9(bless)]
[Tiev&Yanb: attack rapske1, hit AC:19/24(bless), damage:9/9(bless), DC:18 versus poison and -4/3 from Dex.]
[Badger: attack bounder, hit AC:15/22(bless), damage:2/1(bless)]
Grymash (ac 18, bulls strength, shield of faith, expeditious retreat, bless, RAGE) d20+10=28 d20+10=25 d8+13=19 d8+7=13 Sunday February 16th, 2003 4:38:32 PM
With every slashing hack into the bounders flesh, clouds of misty blood spray out in all directions. From Grymash a frothy drool, mixed with the bounder's splattered blood, is blown back into his foe's face from the force of his feral roar.
"GRRAAAAAAAUUUUGHHH!!!!"
(Continuing attack on bounder 1. Hit AC: 28 and 25. Doing 19 and 13 points of damage. Total: 32 points of damage)
Anuk d20+8=12 Sunday February 16th, 2003 5:27:19 PM
"Great shot, Gilan!" Anuk curses his own shot which found it's mark but did little else. Quickly he draws another arrow, pulls back the string on his bow, and aims intently for the bounder, clearing everything else from his mind. With a snap he lets go of the string and the arrow flies toward its target. He realizes his intent was truer than his aim as he helplessly watches the arrow ricochet off the creature's hide (hits AC 12).
"I've had just about enough of this stupid bouncer," he says to himself as he drops his bow and prepares to draw his swords.
Trellus (bless) Monday February 17th, 2003 9:26:21 AM
Trellus steps back in awe at the carnage the half-orc is wreaking. Looking up, he sees Jacob trying to single-handedly take on a Rapke.
"So totally sunbaked," he mumbles.
Figuring Grymash has got this bounder felled, Trellus casts HOLD PERSON (Will DC 15) at the rider of Rapke 2.
Milo d4+1=3 Tuesday February 18th, 2003 1:16:19 AM
pointing at the rider on Rapke #1, he unleashes yet another Magic Missile from his wand.
(damage 3)
Milo tries to make sure there is someone or something at all times between him and Rapke #1.
DM Anthony : Reactions : Round 3 d20+14=21 d20+14=20 d20+18=35 d20+10=12 d100=59 Wednesday February 19th, 2003 2:55:59 PM
Sterlin raises his hands calling to the plains and the plains answer. Hundreds upon thousands of tiny blood flies suddenly come buzzing out of the grass and swarm about Rapke #1. The Rapke and Rider flail about snapping and striking at the bugs until they are killed or chased off, however these two will be able to do nothing else this time. But then suddenly the two spiders leap forward and bite the beast. The poison remarkably takes effect and the Rapke and rider grow very pale.
Jacob saves against the poison and then buries his sword deep in the beast.
Gilan fires into Bounder #2 and the arrow sticks deep in its ribs.
One of the Wasps strikes the Rapke its stinger doing damage and filling the beast with poison, however this beast saves and doesn't seem to be bothered by the flying insects.
The badger too hits bounder #2 and while the damage is minimal it does hit.
Grymash rips into the Bounder wounding it gravely, however the beast does not yet fall.
Anuk's attack again is fruitless, however upon drawing his swords he feels better.
Trellus's spell is successful and the Rider goes rigid and still. Suddenly the Rapke goes wild thrashing about but then finding a focus in Jacob for the moment.
Milo fires his missile into the Rapke again.
(2 posts left till partys intit)
DM Anthony : Manfri : Round 3 d20+6=11 d20+6=20 d20+6=26 d20+6=20 d20+6=9 3d6(2+6+5)+12=25 d4=2 d6+4=10 d6+4=7 d20+8=17 d20+8=13 d20+8=12 d20+6=26 d20+6=26 d20+6=14 d20+6=8 d20+6=9 d20+6=19 d20+6=26 d20+6=14 3d6(5+4+3)+12=24 d4=4 d6+4=8 d20+6=19 d20+6=9 Wednesday February 19th, 2003 3:14:12 PM
Manfri #5 and #6 continue to attack the Bounder with the strange bladed weapons. Slicing the beast with many deep cuts. One again does the deep wounding cut. And the Bounder breathes its last lifeless breath. However it does not fall, but stands redy to attack in its lifeless state.
Manfri #7 sees the Bounder die and pulls from a pouch a small bladder of an animal filled with some liquid. It splashes all over the beast and suddenly the air fills with the small blood flies again. they quickly devour the dead flesh of the beast and it falls over.
Manfri #2 fires his sling at the Rapke attempting to kill Jacob missing both times.
Manfri #3, #4, and #8 continue to try and finish Bounder #3 only 2 hit but one of those is the wounding hit.
Manfri #1 strikes out at Bounder #2 missing both times.
(one post till partys init)
DM Anthony : Rapke : Round 3 d20+6=10 d20+6=23 d20+12=13 d4+4=7 d20+8=17 d20+8=17 d20+6=19 d20+6=23 d20+12=27 d4+4=7 d4+4=5 2d12(7+1)+8=16 d20+6=20 d20+6=26 d20+12=32 d20+6=12 d20+12=16 d4+4=8 d4+4=8 2d12(10+6)+8=24 d20+8=16 d20+8=23 d8+2=7 d20+6=14 Wednesday February 19th, 2003 3:34:47 PM
Rapke #4 leaps into the Fray and attacks Manfri #5 with every attack it has, two claws and a visious bite. Missing with everything but one claw and doing little damage. The rider fires two arrows at Manfri #6 missing both times.
Rapke #7 leaps forward to attack Manfri #7 hitting all three times. Its clear that posion is dripping from the jaws of the Rapke but the Manfri seems to shake it off.
Rapke #3 Leaps forward to attack Terellus Hitting him gravely he seems to shake off two hits that would have been major hits in another inch or so. However it still deals 40 points of damage. The rider fires two shots into Manfri #8 hitting once and doing some minimal damage. The arrow clearly posioned is shaken off again.
Rapke #2 focusing on Jacob attact with only the bite and seems distracted and confused. That visious bite misses.
(End Turn) (Partys Init) (Floks My computer at school is wiped adn I need your character sheets again ASAP. I wont stop combat unless I have to but if you can get tehm to me right away I wont need to.)
Grymash (ac 18, bulls strength, shield of faith, expeditious retreat, bless, RAGE) d20+4=17 d20+4=20 d20+7=10 d20+16=30 d8+13=20 Wednesday February 19th, 2003 9:03:27 PM
While caught up in the ecstasy of his rage, Grymash's minds eye blinks open and all becomes clear to him. Images and sounds flash by in a rapid chaotic succession: the shrill of the rapke, the bloody gorging of manfri, blood on the mouth of the rapke, blood on the mouth of its rider, the feast of the flies, the undying state of his bounder foe .... IT ALL COMES CLEAR!!! (Wisdom 17, Spot 20, Listen 10)
"THIS ENDS NOW ....," Grymash bellows to his pack and the manfri!! "JACOB ... RAPKE AND RIDER SHARE ONE SPIRIT!! RIDER HELPLESS FROM SPELL, GIVE HIM DEATH BLOW!!! EVERYONE NOT FIGHTING BOUNDERS FOCUS FIRE ON RIDERS!! THEY WEAK!!" Grymash then turns to the manfri, "SPRAY DOWN THIS BOUNDER ... HE READY FOR THE FLIES!!!"
Grymash walks around the back of the helpless bounder and faces the rear of the rapke that just took down Trellus. His rage grows to a white hot intensity!!! Grymash roars his battle cry before giving into a blood frenzy, "PACK FOR LIFE ... LIFE FOR PACK!!!! GRRRAAUUUUGHHHH!!!!!!"
Grymash charges the back of rapke (R3). He aims for the rider (r3). His dreadful double axe spins and cuts through the wind. It has to connect ... their lives depended on it!
(Flanking+2, Charging+2. Hit AC 30. For 20 points of damage.)
Anuk (AC 17, hp 23) d20+6=10 d20+6=13 Wednesday February 19th, 2003 10:54:43 PM
With his long sword in his right hand and his short sword in his left hand, Anuk quickly backs away from the bounder, unaware of anything but his enemy. He circles tightly around Gilan's badger, and comes at the bounder again directly opposite Gilan. His face set with determination, his blades slice through the air, only to find that they cannot seem to meet their target.
Confused at his sudden inability to fight meaningfully, Anuk hopes the magic of the manfri and this place will be enough to see the pack through.
(attacks bounder 2, hits AC 10 and AC 13 (+2 flanking, -2 fighting with two weapons))
Milo d4+1=4 Thursday February 20th, 2003 1:20:26 AM
again shoots the rider on Rapke #1 for 4 points of magic missile damage.
Sterlin d20+5=23 d6=1 d20+4=12 d20+4=22 d4-2=2 d3=3 d3=2 Thursday February 20th, 2003 8:31:47 AM
Sterlin moves forward and strikes Rapke #1, but the damage (1 point) is minimal.
Ezra (spider #1) bites Rapke number 1, but fails to puncture flesh.
Enoch (spider #2) bites Rapke number 1 with little actual damamge (2 points), however the Rapke must save again vs. the poison. (dc 11 ) (if failed save, strength loss of 3 initial, and strength loss of 2 secondary)
Trellus (DM Anthony) Thursday February 20th, 2003 10:21:36 AM
You all watch Trellus die and he himself feels his life force leave his body. Standing there dead, still able to move. He knows his body cant take any more punishment. He needs to protect himself for some reason he can still function. Like the bounder. Perhaps he should beware water?
OOC: You may still act, but you are aware that your hold on this exsistance is razor thin. So go ahead and post your action for this round.
Trellus (bless, sanctuary - 3 rds) Thursday February 20th, 2003 10:56:57 AM
Trellus looks down at his opened ribcage and wonders why he's still upright.
Then, he wonders how to stay that way. All thought of protecting or otherwise helping the pack are discarded as the young man concentrates solely on his own survival.
He backs directly away from Rapke 3 (to avoid the AO) until he's behind, or nearly behind Manfri 4 (20' move).
Then he casts SANCTUARY on himself (Will Save DC 14 to attack Trellus - 3rds)
Stephen ooc. Thursday February 20th, 2003 11:27:41 AM
(Please... if any character discovers a vital bit of information, remember that your character does have a voice that can communicate it to the rest of the group.)
Gilan(bless, HP:25, AC:14) d20+8=9 d8+3=11 d20+7=13 d20+7=14 d3+7=10 d3+7=8 d20+6=11 d20+6=15 d2=2 d2=2 Thursday February 20th, 2003 2:30:39 PM
Gilan nocks another arrow and takes aim at the rider of rapke1. The site of Trellus spilling guts onto the ground distracts him enough to miss his shot. He shoves the feelings that start to overwhelm him, he does not have time for this...not at this time.
Both of the wasps come flying back in on the same target as before. Stingers poised for attacks on the face.
The badger howls in fury and once again tears into bounder2. Both claws decend on the bounder
[Gilan: rider1, hit AC:9, damage:11]
[Wasps: hit AC:13/14, damage:10/8+poison]
[Badger: bounder2, hit AC:11/15 ,damage:2/2]
Jacob 2d10(7+8)+6=21 Friday February 21st, 2003 12:49:23 AM
Hearing Grymash's words, Jacob slashes into the frozen rider, his sword easily sliding into its neck and hopefully killing him. (Using the full round Coup De Grace to deal 21 damage and killing him unless he makes a fort save DC 31). He hopes the huge creature falls, as his arm and body ache in pain...
DM Anthony : Reactions : RD 4 d100=56 d100=34 d20+14=18 d20+20=22 d100=10 Friday February 21st, 2003 10:09:59 AM
Gry finds he cant charge into the back of the Rapke as it involves more than straight line movement and then by attacking the Rider who is not threatened he is not flanking. but for all that he still hits soundly. the Rapke seems to take no notice however of the wound of its master.
Anuk circles around the bounder putting his back to the Rapke behind him.
Milo hits the rider on Rapke #1 with his powerful Magic Missile.
Sterlin and the spiders leave Bounder #1 and go to attack Rapke #2. The posion of the spiders seems inefective this time.
Trellus moves behind Manfi #4 who does his best to protect the young man. However Trellus realizes that should he cast this time he would be provking someone to attack him. All he can do this time is move.
Gilan's army seems inefective this time with all of the attacks made missing the mark.
Jacob leaps into the air, the sword tip whistling through the air and then sliping in that perfect moment through the hollow of the elfs throat. Killing the rider. The Rapke below goes wild. Bucking and running. In its blind panic it runs out of the sand circle and as its body crosses the line it desentergrates into dust.
(2 more posts to come)
DM Anthony : Manfri : Round 4 d20+6=16 d20+6=11 d20+8=14 d20+8=15 d20+6=13 d20+6=9 d20+6=12 d20+6=22 d6+4=9 d20+6=14 d20+6=12 d20+6=22 d20+6=10 d6+4=6 d20+6=11 d20+6=20 d6+4=5 d20+6=10 d20+6=12 Friday February 21st, 2003 10:46:21 AM
Manfri #5 atatacks the Rapke in front of him. But he misses both times.
Manfri #6 uses his sling on Rapke #5 he too misses twice.
Manfri #7 and #2 attack Rapke #5 missing all but one attack
Manfri #3 and #4 attack Bounder #3 finishing him off, and yet he still stands.
Manfri rushes to Bounder #1 whom everyone has left and finishes him off as well, and yet he too stands.
Manfri #1 attacks Bounder #2 and misses.
(1 more post)
DM Anthony : Rapke : Round 4 d20+6=19 d20+6=21 d20+12=27 d4+4=6 d4+4=8 2d12(4+3)+8=15 d20+6=23 d20+6=7 d20+12=30 d4+4=7 2d12(2+3)+8=13 d20+4=21 d20+4=16 d20+8=12 d4+2=6 d20+8=26 d20+12=30 2d6(3+5)=8 d20+4=6 d20+4=12 d20+8=16 d20+4=15 d20+4=14 d20+8=15 d6=3 d20+6=21 d20+6=24 d20+12=31 d4+4=6 d4+4=5 2d12(2+1)+8=11 d20+6=9 d20+6=7 d20+8=9 d20+8=12 d20+8=9 d20+8=11 Friday February 21st, 2003 11:39:20 AM
Rapke #4 rips into Manfri #5 attacking with tooth and claw. Who now looks greviously hurt.
Rapke #5 likewise rips into Manfri #7. Who now looks to be near death as well.
Bounder #3 in its dead state continues to attack Manfri #3
Rider #3 gives a strange shouted command and grips the reins. The Rapke leans foreward on its hind legs and then wit a tremendous leap filps up into the air twisting its body and landing facing the other way. As it does so the tail wips around Grys legs in an attempt to trip him. (opsd. Dex or Str of 30 to not end up on the ground taking 8 damage.)
Bounder #1 attempts to kill Manfri #8 but misses.
Bounder #2 continues to focuses on Manfri #1 but he too misses all three attacks.
Rapke #1 focuses its rage on Sterlin who is alone with the bugs. As the beast rips through him he feels the posion seep into him. (22 pts dam and Fort DC12 or be slowed as per spell.)
Rider #1 Draws a sword and taks a swipe at each Wasp. Missing twice.
Rider #5 fires his bow twice at Gry and misses twice.
Rider #4 fires his bow twice at Manfri #5 and misses twice.
(End Post) (Partys Init.)
Jacob (Bless, AC 17) d20+9=27 d10+3=11 Friday February 21st, 2003 12:57:08 PM
"Take out the riders!!!" he yells, as the Rapke falls to dust before him...turning, he sees the rest of the group, including the manfri, being assaulted by these creatures. With a quick decision, he charges the one Grymash is fighting and slashes with his bloody sword at the rider. (AC 29!) His sword sinks into the side of the strange elf-thing. (11 damage! Woo!! I'm the real slim shady!)
Milo d8+3=5 d8+3=9 Friday February 21st, 2003 1:25:18 PM
noticing Trellus on death's door, yet still able to react, Milo rushes up to his good friend with tears streaming down his face, pulling out a potion along the way. upon arriving he pops the topper of the potion, and places it up to Trellus' lips and pours the liquid down his throat in an attempt to keep Gargul from taking away his friend.
(potion of CLW+3 for 9 points of healing) (rolled a 2 for the first, used hero point to reroll)
Trellus (bless) d8+3=4 d8+3=8 Friday February 21st, 2003 1:30:29 PM
Since everyone seems to be engaged, Trellus continues to worry about himself.
He casts CURE LIGHT WOUNDS on himself and anxiously waits to see what happens to his shredded body.
(Spontaneously cast over 2nd Bless spell. Used hero point to reroll. Gone from 'should be dead -17hp' to 'should be unconscious but stable -9hp'.)
Gilan(bless, HP: 25, AC: 14)Wasp(bless, HP: 14/10,AC: 14)Badger(bless, HP: 6, AC: 15) d20+8=18 d8+3=11 d20+7=9 d20+7=21 d3+7=10 d3+7=9 d20+6=24 d20+6=7 d3=1 d3=1 Friday February 21st, 2003 3:07:20 PM
Gilan nocks another arrow and takes aim at the rider that dared to try and attack his wasps. His spark of rage does him no good as his shot goes wide. "How is Trellus...Milo?" He hopes with all his heart that he will be able to be saved.
The wasps, also a little miffed at being attack and wanting to help out thier master attack the rider again. Tiev's dive is messed up by a stray bit of wind that blows him off course. Yanb on the other hand feels her stinger bite into rider flesh and then she buzzes away, laughing at her mate.
The badger continues its attack on the bounder, determined that it will do as much damage as possible. It's first set of claws miss but the second following right behind find a hold, though the wound is slight.
[Gilan: hit AC: 18, damage: 11, shoot rider1]
[Wasps: hit AC: 9/21, damage: 10/9 + poison, attack rider1]
Grymash, not having a solid foundation in the loose sand, falls to the ground. His eyes bloodshot red with rage, the corners of his mouth flow with white foam, the act of being tripped to the ground sets off a fury within him that shakes the very ground. (or was it from him hitting the ground!! :)
Grymash hops to his feet. (move-equivalent action) He roars a feral cry that would even rattle the gods. With his bloodied double axe he swings it to the left and then the right. Building up the blades momentum, Grymash twirls it around, throwing in all his weight and muscle he can muster. Finally, he brings it down upon the head of the rapke (since he has no more movement, he would have moved toward the rider).
(Hit AC 14, natural 1, oh come on, no way!! Hero point. Hit AC 33!! Woo Hoo natural 20. crit threat. Hit AC 31 ... CRITICAL HIT! :) DAMAGE X3: 19, 17,17. Total: 53 damage. Massive damage. Must make Fort Save DC 15 or die instantly.)
Grymash satisfies his blood lust in this orgy of gore.
Jacob Friday February 21st, 2003 4:29:18 PM
Having just slashed the rider, Jacob witnesses Grymash's awesome display of strength and is somewhat intimidated himself. "At least it's not me," he mumbles, and hopes Grymash doesn't remember the time he put Grymash's underpants on one of those nasty little biting ants hives while the half-orc was swimming, then nonchalantly returned them just before he got out...or the time he buried Grymash in dirt while he was sleeping and forgot about him and wandered off...
Sterlin (barkskin,bless ac: 18) d20+5=7 d20+4=15 d4-2=2 d3=2 d3=2 d20+4=10 Sunday February 23rd, 2003 6:16:22 PM
Sterlin takes a step back gasping for air. Very near death and now poisoned (failed save 7), he attempts to save his life by casting entangle on Rapke #1.
Ezra (spider #1) hits ac 15 doing 2 points of damage to Rapke number 1 if successful. If hit, Rapke must save again vs. the poison. (dc 11 ) (if failed save, strength loss of 2 initial, and strength loss of 2 secondary)
Enoch completely misses
Anuk d20+6=14 d20+6=14 d8=5 d6=6 Monday February 24th, 2003 11:56:31 AM
Anuk swings his swords again in hopes of harming the bounder, but to no avail (only hits AC14 twice for a combined 11 points of damage). He suddenly realizes what Grymash was saying about the Rapke and their riders, backs quickly away from the bounder (to avoid an aoo) and runs back to his original spot to retrieve his bow.
(ooc: sorry about posting so late...got a new computer last friday and have had trouble re-establishing my internet connection.)
Anthony Monday February 24th, 2003 11:31:20 PM
havingr troble posting....... sorry
DM Anthony : Reactions : Round 5 d20+18=21 d20+15=16 Tuesday February 25th, 2003 2:44:41 PM
Jacob near death risks everything and rushes At the rider of Rapke #3. His sword cutting deep.
Milo too rushes to help Terellus putting himself in danger. Healing 9 pints of damage. Terllus feels dead however.
Terellus casting on himself sees that his body is almost healed but his spirt still is absent, he cna feel its loss. The emptyness without it.
Gilan watches as his wasps both miss their attacks and the only memeber of his army that does any damage is the badger. (Is this a normal badger or a celestial badger?)
Gry in his rage does impressive damage to the Rapke but the only thing it realy seems to do is make it angry.
Sterlin feels hims self get very ill and cant seem to consentrate as well. (Slowed as per spell) Then stepping back and casting the spell the Rapke is quckly wrapped up and is helpless.
Anuk cant attack and get his bow so he forgoes the attack and rushes to his bow. (Attacking and moving draws an aoo.)
DM Anthony : Manfri : Round 5 d20+6=18 d20+6=24 d6+4=8 d20+6=11 d20+6=10 d20+6=15 d20+6=12 d20+6=13 d20+6=25 d20+6=17 d6+4=7 d20+6=10 d20+6=20 d20+6=15 d20+6=16 d6+4=5 d20+6=13 d20+6=15 d20+6=11 d20+6=21 d6+4=9 Tuesday February 25th, 2003 3:31:29 PM
Manfri #5 even though he looks almost ready to drop attacks Rapke #4 and does a bit of damage.
Manfri #6 also attacks Rapke #4 but misses twice.
Mafri #7 also near death presses his attack, but misses twice.
Manfri #2 attacks Rapke #5. But barely hits once.
Manfri #3 and #4 attack Bounder #3, they seem hesitant to use water because of how close Terellus is.
Rider #5 fires twice at manfri #7. he too passes into that dead state.
Rider #3 piulls a bag of water from his pack but it falls to the earth unbroken and rolls away into the grass.
Rapke #1 is helpless, entangled but so are both wasps and both spiders.
Parys init
Grymash (shouting) d20-2=8 Tuesday February 25th, 2003 4:49:57 PM "ANYONE KNOW WHAT LIQUID MANFRI USE TO FINISH OFF DEAD??!! MANFRI WHAT YOU USE??"
(the "liquid" was never disclosed to our PC's! The bladders could be filled with stomach acid, juice, urine or something else?!)
Trellus (0hp, dead,bless) Tuesday February 25th, 2003 4:55:05 PM
Trellus sees the manfri hesitate to use their water bags, and figures he's the reason why. But the cleric can't get past the Rapke to his left, and sees no way to get clear.
"Can you drop a dead Bounder?" he calls to the manfri leader.
The disintigration of the other Rapke gives him an idea. "Hope this works," he mutters.
Then he calls out strongly to the rider of Rapke 3 "FLEE!"
(COMMAND spell - Will save DC 14 negates)
Sterlin d20+4=10 d20+4=8 Tuesday February 25th, 2003 7:45:04 PM
Sterlin backs away to a safe spot.
The two spiders each attack and miss
Anuk d20+8=20 d8+1=3 Tuesday February 25th, 2003 8:19:57 PM
Bow in hand, Anuk fires an arrow at the rider on the Rapke fighting Grymash (r3). The arrow bites into the rider (hits AC20 for 3 points of damage), making Anuk smile.
Wondering how they can possibly beat an enemy that can fight on past death, he calls out to the manfri "What in Gargul's name must we do to defeat these vile creatures?!" He hopes that someone will share what they've learned from fighting the beasts in the past.
Grymash (ac 18, bulls strength, shield of faith, expeditious retreat, bless, RAGE) d20+10=12 d20+3=14 d8+1=8 Tuesday February 25th, 2003 9:58:16 PM
Grymash is sobered somewhat by the beasts ability to survive the deadlyblow he just delivered. However, his rage continues to burn. Grymash for the first time feels the pain from the rapke's attack. The pain stings like 20 lashes from a razor whip! Grymash barely is able to shake off the poison (Fort save 12, all I need was a 2 and I got it, scary!)
Grymash realizes that he needs to hit the rider. He was blinded when he lost control and the fury was set free. However, even when fortified by his rage, Grymash can remain cunning (Wisdom 14).
"Jacob ... back up with Grymash, away from bounder. You take right, me take left! Make rapke charge into our gauntlet."
Grymash backs up 50ft (his movement is 80) and slides out a wand of cure light wounds from his left bracer and jabs himself with it (8 points of healing for a total of 19 hitpoints. Activating a wand draws no aoo.).
"HEY YOU PIGGIE BOUNCER ... YOU TREADLE ... YOUR BEATER IS RIGHT HERE!!! YEAH, THAT RIGHT ... THIS IS YOUR LAST THREAD. ME GONNA CUT YOU A NEW GRASS!!!"
Grymash puts the wand in his teeth and starts to swing his double axe left and right. The swiftness of his blades stirs up enough wind to kick up billows of sand.
Milo d4+1=2 d4+1=4 Tuesday February 25th, 2003 11:02:01 PM
seeing that there is nothing else he can do for his friend, but help to defeat the enemy, Milo points his wand at the Rider on Rapke #3.
(damage is 4) (was a 2, used HP to reroll)
Milo then moves to stand next to Anuk.
Grymash (ac 18, bulls strength, shield of faith, expeditious retreat, bless, RAGE) d20+10=27 Wednesday February 26th, 2003 3:49:01 PM
Grymash continues to wait for the charge. Suddenly a gust of wind blows by and it carries the unmistakable scent of ..... water!! (Wilderness lore 27) He makes a quick glance back into the wind. Across the sand he sees the remains from the first bounder that died!! The blood flies were almost finished reducing the bounder to a pile of bones. The sand is still wet from the liquid the manfri had sprayed on it. Grymash's eyes widen in excitement.
"EVERYONE ... ITS WATER!!! SPRAY WATER ON THE WALKING DEAD. MAKE THEM WALK NO MORE!!!"
Trellus Wednesday February 26th, 2003 4:00:46 PM
The cleric is quick to reply,
"I'M WALKING DEAD! So, by Domi, be careful where you spray water!"!
Gilan(bless, HP: 25, AC: 14)Wasp(bless, HP: 14/10,AC: 14)Celestial Badger(bless, HP: 6, AC: 15) d20+8=19 d8+3=4 d20+15=29 d20+15=33 d20+6=21 d20+6=10 d3=2 d3=3 Wednesday February 26th, 2003 4:01:00 PM
Gilan cusses as he sees his two wasps get caught in the entangle spell. He only hopes that this does not get them killed. "Damn..if we only knew what was in those skins...it could aid us all. He pulls back the string on his bow, having already nocked an arrow and fires at the rider that has a manfri on the ropes.
The two wasps take thier time to blend in with the grass that has them trapped. If they cannot fight they will hide.
The badger continues it's asault on the bounder that it was after still trying it's best to kill it.
[Gilan: attacks Rider4, hit AC: 19, damage: 4]
[Wasps: chameleon ability to hide-Tiev: 29, Yanb: 33]
[Celestial Badger: attacks bounder2, hit AC: 22/11, damage: 2/3]
Jacob (AC 17) Wednesday February 26th, 2003 11:52:04 PM
Hearing Grymash's comment, Jake takes his entire action to draw forth his canteen and tear off the top, then scatter a spray of water over both the somehow-still-standing bounder and the Rapke. He tosses his empty canteen at the rider for effect, and takes a few steps back, pretty certain he's gonna die..
Anthony Thursday February 27th, 2003 11:01:58 PM
Dear all, I was half way through posting today and the net crashed at school and never came back up. But to make un undramatic end of things due to three AMAZINGLY bad rolls on me, we are out of combat. I will post again tomarrow and tell you what happened but sufice it tos say two failed saves and a failed moral check and well, it went bad for me. WEll have to find out tomarrow though if any water landed on Turellus.
CDM Jerry Monday March 3rd, 2003 11:33:16 PM
DM Anthony is swamped with shows this week and next. His group gets to go to state the week after spring break as well so he's going crazy right now. I've activated Asst. DM Mikey. Go ahead and post daily as soon as either Mikey or whoever I can get to sub posts. I'm on it folks. Anth has requested a sub like he should and I thank him for that. We'll be back up and running within 24 hours I hope.
In the meantime, feel free to enter the Giggling Ghost if you need a posting fix. ;)
ADM Mikey Wednesday March 5th, 2003 1:35:34 AM
Under the compulsion of Trellus, the creature scrambles away, but seems to crumble into dust as he hits an unseen barrier. The rapke pause simultaneously, one with its claws barely a foot from Jacob's head. A Manfri's blade whistles cleanly through a Rapke's neck, and they screech piercingly, suddenly provoked into absolute terror. Bounders and Rapkes scramble any which way to escape even as they begin to disintegrate, amazingly becoming particles of dust that already begin scattering to the winds. All but the entangled one, who continues to shriek even as the spiders' fangs bite into its legs. It collapses to the ground, weakened by the combined poisons. Nothing seems to move for a second... Trellus is conscious of his body's weight and collapses to the ground. Something, he's not sure what, feels lighter...as though his spirit itself, formerly free of the chains of its body, wishes to break loose and fly midst the stars. But that's ridiculous, of course. How could that even have happened...? He doesn't know. You notice the fallen Manfri look much in the same state, slowly stumbling to their feet, healing themselves, struggling to stop bleeding...
"We must complete the ritual..." says one of the Manfri, a short one holding a stone dagger with four prongs grasping onto the hilt. "If you wish to help, you may." It offers the dagger, and another one, wounded in the leg, stumbles up with his own dagger. (Anyone wish to do anything?)
Trellus Wednesday March 5th, 2003 8:14:16 AM
"Shades! It worked!" Trellus cries exultantly as the Rapke flees and disintigrates before his eyes.
Then, he drops to his knees, confusion and concern playing across his face.
"Dudes?" he murmurs weakly, before toppling over to his side.
Anuk Wednesday March 5th, 2003 11:34:04 AM
Frantically pointing his bow in random directions, Anuk searches for a target. Seeing only sand and ash, he realizes the nightmare may be over. Then his eyes fall on Trellus for the first time since the battle began. He rushes toward the body, murmuring "Trellus? Trellus?!" Waves of anger and frustration wash over him as he looks at the body of his friend lying on the ground.
Gathering himself, hoping his friend can somehow still be saved, Anuk approaches the manfri and accepts the offered dagger. "What must I do?"
Milo Wednesday March 5th, 2003 12:11:05 PM
solemly he goes up to the Manfri and accept sone of the daggers asking: what must we do to help finish this?
Sterlin Wednesday March 5th, 2003 1:07:52 PM
Sterlin approaches as well and takes a dagger if another is offered, but is wondering what finishing the ritual entails.
Gilan Wednesday March 5th, 2003 2:35:01 PM
Gilan makes his way over to the manfri with the others and nods. "What is it we must do?" You notice that he glances to Trellus as he collpases. His face is a mask of mixed emotions and he wonders what they will face next.
Glancing to the manfri that offers the dagger he inclines his hand towards Trellus. "Is there anything we can do for our friend...to save him." The look in his eyes is more of a plead for anykind of help that will restore a friend to them.
Grymash (ac 18, bulls strength, shield of faith, expeditious retreat, bless) Wednesday March 5th, 2003 5:55:13 PM
Grymash calms from his rage. The fatigue hits him in the process. He almost seems to shrink from the affects. He lumbers over to Trellus and the others and looks to see if there are any more of those strange daggers left to take. He will take one if made available.
Grymash falls to a knee and begins to pray for guidance. For now he is tired and confused ... what is to become of Trellus. Should he be asking Gargul for his return or giving him his last rites. He is so confused and unsure. He hardly feels holy at the moment being covered in the blood of bounders and rapke.
ADM Mikey Wednesday March 5th, 2003 9:03:16 PM
The Manfri look over you all, considering your words and your eagerness to participate in the ritual. Slowly, he speaks. "Your brother will survive, as will our own, but only if (strangeword) is completed. You, and you," he points first to Jacob (the only who didn't volunteer) and to Milo, "should tend to him." For a second he considers, then hands the dagger he's holding to Anuk, while the (female?) one hands her dagger to Gilan. Grymash and Sterlin, waiting for daggers, notice a third dagger that has been dropped into the sand during the battle after being immersed into a rapke's chest. A third manfri tosses his dagger from where he's crouching to the speaker, who catches it fluidly. As one, all the Manfri, even those not in the ritual, turn and regard the single Rapke and its rider, still alive, if somewhat tenuously, and regarding you all with hateful glares. Slowly, the speaker approaches it. "To free the spirits of the fallen, we must cleanse the last of them. Only when their (strangeword; Ozento?) are freed from their bodies will spirits go where they are bound. We must cut them loose, the .. hearts of our enemies. Only then, when they are freed and all have witnessed this, will the ritual be complete." Slowly, he walks forward...his steps like those of a grasswalker approaching the Pantheon back home. Ignoring the rapke's faint movements, or its riders struggles, it casually thrusts the dagger into the chest of the rider, and begins cutting...
Milo Thursday March 6th, 2003 1:06:34 AM
walking eagerly over to where Trellus is laying, he places his pack on the ground next to him. pulling out 2 blackets, he unrolls one and covers Trellus, with th e other, he folds it inot a pillow size wad, and gently places it under Trellus' head. then, with calm emotions, Milo begins singing a song to Trellus, one Milo's mother used to sing to him when he was ill, and in bed. one that always calmed him down and helped him to rest.
looking to Jacob, Milo says: get some water and a cloth and begin washing the blood from around his cuts, and be gentle about it.
then Milo resumes his lullaby.
Gilan Thursday March 6th, 2003 4:01:59 AM
He glances to the dagger that is given to him and listens to what is said. For an instant he was tempted to give back the dagger, but upon looking to Trellus his eyes harden. He makes his way to the nearest body and begins to cut out the things heart.
He glances to Milo and Jacob as the go to tend to Trellus and gasps when they mention water. "Is that really wise considering what we have seen when water was used earlier..." Glancing to the manfri for guidance and a sign of him being right. "He said that the ritual must be completed...until then using water may cause Trellus's body to be devoured by the insects of the plain." Hoping that you will follow his advice and wait he goes back to his grisly task.
Anuk Thursday March 6th, 2003 11:29:27 AM
Anuk watches as the manfri begins his grim task--the sight chills him. Slaying another in a fair fight is one thing, but to mutilate him afterwards is something else, something he hadn't seen in the bargain. He hesitates for a moment, staring at the dagger in his hand. He thinks back on the kindness of the manfri in rescuing them in the grass, thinks of the manfri who died in the act, and thinks of his promise to be a part of this ritual battle.
"Well, whatever an ozento is, I'm gonna free one." He also begins the work of removing the heart from one of the fallen enemies.
ADM Mikey Friday March 7th, 2003 5:13:58 AM
Finally, after a great deal of ugly cutting, Anuk and Gilan manage to pull out the creature's heart. Needless to say, they are drenched in blood from shoulder down... "We honor you, our fallen foes, who have so ably fought us. We ask your spirits to be appeased, your Ozentu to recognize our bravery, and wish for our spirits to meet one day, far in the future, in the lands of endless plains." With the blood from the heart and a bit more from your heart, he goes from one to another of you, touching a fingertip to your forehead, even the fallen such as Anuk, chanting in his strange language. Meanwhile, others, taking up your daggers and their own, skin the creatures, and the creatures' organs are placed upon large grass-woven baskets. The Manfri that were formerly not in the ritual rush forward now, some helping you all up to your feet. One lays his hands on Trellus and says a few words (He's cured of 10 hit points and becomes conscious, but will still be fatigued until full sleep). Apparently unable to say much, they nevertheless convey in body language their thanks to you all, and seem to feel that you are part of them, somewhat. Or at least, the mutual respect of two people who have worked together for a short while. "Thank you for your aid. We were able to perform the Kall' a 'Tek, the Freedom Ceremony. Would you like to join us in a grass banquet? More must be heard of the fearsome company who has aided us against the hunters, and we wish to tell you our own stories, to mingle in friendship. Would you join us in the Taudo?"
Milo Friday March 7th, 2003 9:55:30 AM
thanks the Manfri for their help and healing.
turning to the group Milo says: you know, this to me would be more important than going back to prove to the others that we aren't children. my vote is we stay and listen to their stories and tell them of our only story.
<stays by Trellus' side until her has a full nights sleep>
Trellus (10/23 hp) Friday March 7th, 2003 10:53:02 AM
Trellus wearily, and cautiously, rises, and looks around the battlefield in quiet bewilderment.
"I'm with Milo," he states quietly. "We're weaving a totally new thread now. (long pause) "And, well, I'm happy about it...(pause), but I'd like to know why I'm not dead."
He again becomes quiet, displaying his 'thinking deep thoughts' face, which the pack has become accustomed to from time to time.
Jacob/Mikey Friday March 7th, 2003 12:42:07 PM
"Dude, you're okay!" Eagerly clapping Trellus on the back (perhaps a bit hard in his eagerness), Jacob grins. "I thought we were totally baked there, pack...I'm up for any banquet as you all know, as the longer we're out the better. And besides, now we've got cool face paint and stories to tell the black pack..."
Sterlin Friday March 7th, 2003 2:38:03 PM
I definitely would prefer time spent with new friends over a pointless game of pride with those inbred bullies back home. After the battle we just had, they a seem quite a bit less intimidating now anyway. Perhaps you can cook up something good for our new friends Milo.
Gilan Friday March 7th, 2003 6:12:35 PM
Gilan smiles to his pack and nods his acceptance. "Staying here and enteraining ourselves at a banquet with new friends would be much preferable." As the others speak he smiles again and laughs lightly. "Yes...this should put the black pack in it's place for awhile."
He makes his way over to Trellus and takes his shoulder in his hand. "It is good to see you still among the pack, brother."
Anuk Friday March 7th, 2003 9:57:56 PM
Despite the blood that covers him, Anuk smiles broadly at the sight of Trellus' recovery.
"Time to eat and weave tales, my friends. I vote that we stay here." He looks at Gilan, Grymash and the others each spattered with gore after the fight. A thought occurs to him.
"Hey...how about we call ourselves 'The Blood Pack'?"
(ooc: Mikey--what makes Anuk "fallen"?)
Sterlin Saturday March 8th, 2003 2:01:23 PM
" The Blood Pack. I like it. We have now been through even the risk of death together. From this point on I also think we should be called the Blood Pack. I also believe we should treat each other as blood brothers, though we have really done that already."
(i think i may have posted out of turn, but i had to express my approval of the idea)
Milo Saturday March 8th, 2003 4:06:29 PM
escorting Trellis to a spot set up for sleeping, he says to the rest: maybe some other time, Trellus needs to be tended to before I can even think about cooking. as for the name, it kinda grows on ya the more you say it. Blood Pack bLood pAck blOod paCk bloOd pacK blooD pack blood pack
kinda like it
ADM Mikey - The Feast! d20+5=10 d20+5=23 d20+5=25 Sunday March 9th, 2003 1:45:46 AM
(Before you all go, please make DC 20 Spot or DC 15 search checks, one or the other, and any successes notice a purple gem in the grass.) Shortly you are brought up to a cropping of grass clustered and concealing around a barely noticeable rocky area. The grasses are parted before the lead Manfri with what seems like a breeze of wind, and an entrance that even a Rapke could fit into is apparent. You see a well-lit, wide passageway leading down. Two Manfri help Trellus along, after the rest of you, one cheerfully chattering in its own language to the other. The passage curves peculiarly downwards into a chamber that seems designed for more people. You see other corridors branching off, leading you to wonder exactly just how large this underground area is. Quite a few tables are scattered around this room, along with a few grass-woven chairs. They seem a bit low for all of you (with the exception of Milo), but they quickly seat you at the largest table, which fits twelve. Feel free to decide your seating arrangements: Jacob, Grymash, Trellus (yes, he's brought along too!), Sterlin, Anuk, Gilan, and a space for Milo (if he doesn't quickly wander off to the kitchen...) ...forgive me if I've left anyone out. The Manfri fill up the other seats, including the one who spoke to you all at the cutting and two who wear five-circled pendants.
Off to a side chamber, a number of Manfri begin clattering about...younger, smaller ones, whom several then escort down another chamber, followed by a few who start bringing in drinking pots and grass baskets for preparation of the feast. "We found these items upon the remains, and offer them to you," says the chief. So saying, the warriors place a bag of coins (50 platinum pieces), a short stick with blue engravings, a little corked bottle, and a dusty and somewhat blood splattered scroll. "If you would like, Trann can decipher the magic of these while we eat," he indicates the non-coins, which you realize, must all be magical items. He smiles graciously, "We are quite thankful for your help and hope you will enjoy our feast. Ah, here comes Svard..."
Bustling inwards is a somewhat plump Manfri, who regards all the newcomers with surprise. She (as is obvious), chatters noisily and somewhat displeasedly with the chief, who suddenly loses his pleased expression. Trying to reply, she huffs and shakes her head. But then another Manfri, one wearing a pendant with five intertwined circles upon it, gives a few short words. She immediately nods and heads back into the same passage, from which shortly emerge pleasant smells.
"We will be eating shortly. Would you care for some glass wine while we wait?"
One of the five-circled Manfri, the one who didn't speak, timidly offers Trellus a few strands of grass and motions for him to eat them. If he eats them, he will feel less tired, but also find himself extremely thirsty.
Milo Sunday March 9th, 2003 10:34:56 AM
sitting beside Trellus, he helps him eat the grass that is offered to him. babying him to an extent. when he sees Trellus doing a fine enough job on his own, Milo will turn to the Chief and reply: yes, if Trann can identify these items for us, we would be grateful to him. as to you Chief, we thank you most honorably for the celebration you have invited us to, and might I say, for people we have only heard stories about, they are nothing in comparison to the real thing. I and my friends feel honored to of helped you in your ritual, and we hope to be of service to you again. we wish to be able to keep in contact with you all. (excusing himself, he walks up to the plump looking Manfri) Saying: excuse me, but I see you are the one who runs the kitchen and I am here to offer my services to you, if you would accept them that is, in the kitchen. I am a cook of sorts at home and my specialty is desserts but I can weave a good meal as well. it would honor me if you would allow me to help serve you as you have helped to serve us.
Trellus d20+5=10 Monday March 10th, 2003 11:01:44 AM
(Spot check failed - 10)
A blank faced, mechanically walking Trellus allows Milo and the Manfri to lead him to the hall.
"Blood pack sounds shady," he remarks without emotion.
The cleric sits whereever Milo decides to put him, and collapses heavily into the chair.
When the lead Manfri speaks of identifying the items, Trellus turns to reply, but stops short, searching inside himself for what he thinks ought to be a simple answer.
He is greatly relieved when Milo does answer, nodding his head stupidly and flashing a tight smile.
He takes the grass and munches mechanically at first, and then with more energy as its properties take hold.
"Can a dude get some water?" he asks, with more strength than his earlier comment.
Gilan(spot check 19: failed) d20+3=19 Monday March 10th, 2003 7:24:41 PM
Gilan sits at the table that they had been ushered to and gladly slips into one of the seats. Weakly smiling to the manfri that offers the glass wine he shakes his head. "Could I get some cold juice instead?" He seems visibly exhausted from the earlier events and is near ready to drop actually. He absently watches as the others talk and Milo offers to help cook, he cannot help but smile. Even Trellus is still with them and for that he is thankful.
Anuk d20+6=13 Monday March 10th, 2003 11:54:51 PM
Anuk looks at the items on the table with interest. Then he sniffs the air for the smells of the cooking food with even greater interest. Mmmmm. It will, of course, smell even better once Milo gets in there.
Sitting down to rest, he thinks back on the recent events, wondering now why he even cared so much what the black pack and Galafar thought of them. He knows when they return, there will be hell to pay, but it won't seem nearly as bad as he was anticipating, whatever the punishment. It will be good to return to Rattledam in triumph. "They'll have to call us the pod-bearers now," he thinks with a smirk. The pod...the pod!"Who's got the pod?!" he suddenly asks aloud. "Is it okay?"
(spot check 13)
Jacob d20=16 d20+3=20 Tuesday March 11th, 2003 1:48:42 AM
(WoohoO! Jacob spotted the gem!) Jacob is helping you all on the way there, and notices something sparkling amidst the grass. He reaches down, wondering at the way it almost seems to not touch the ground...He picks it up, looking into what must be a prism of some kind. "Hey guys...looks like some kinda gem." Amazingly, as he holds it, it begins to float just to the left of his head... "Woah!" Of course it's interesting, but the Manfri conversation quickly dominates your thoughts, and it is only later, when you're seated, and the chief mentions identifying the items that Jacob offers it up to the guy...somewhat awkwardly reaching out and grasping it, then handing it to one of the warriors, who seems a bit amused by it.
Grymash d20+6=21 Tuesday March 11th, 2003 2:12:26 AM
The walk back to the manfri village was enough rest for the once fatigued half-orc. Before sitting down to eat, he takes some of the fist fulls of grass that he grabbed and mashes them into pulp. The moisture within the grass is enough to moisten his hand and he uses it to rub the blood off his body. If offered a bowl of fresh water and a few rags he will certainly welcome that.
Grymash is quiet. He concerned for his pack. They have never experienced a scene like what they were fortunate to live through. As he takes a wet cloth continues to clean himself, he watches with astonishment how well the others are faring. Even Trellus, he took a mortal wound and survived. How ... why did Gargul allow him to return ... maybe his spirit never left the body. Too many questions and too tired to ask.
"Milo, did you run with pod or did Sterlin take it. It was in Milo padded bag. Ohh here pod is. (spot check 21) Maybe manfri have better way of to carry ... Grymash like to have buckler back."
Grymash continues to ponder what thoughts creep in. At points during the battle he has no memory of what happened. Little black moments when the rage completely took over. It disturbs him a little. He never know what he would be capable of doing. In his rage, would he turn on his pack? How long would it last? And someday will the beast completely take over and lock him away. The idea frightens him. But what disturbs him even more is that deep down ... a small part of him liked it!!
After eating the food provided, Grymash is content to sit alone and clean his orc double axe. His most prized posession.
ADM Mikey Tuesday March 11th, 2003 3:13:43 AM
The chief of the Manfri gives some commands, and some of the older children come in and pour from urns drinks for all of you. For some it is wine, for others it is a very light milk. They don't seem to have any juice, as, unlike the villagers, they don't have their own area for growing vegetables. The kitchen bustles with the little ones, and the plump woman looks at Milo somewhat expectantly. She points at herself and says, tentatively, "Cheetyl." She smiles, apparently not understanding a word he said. One of the children says something to her in Manfri, and she nods looking a bit suspicious, replying extensively, so the kid says, "She says she'll be glad for your help, and asks if you can an appetizer and maybe the desert." Apparently, she doesn't trust an outsider enough to have them make the main course, which she starts. Milo finds that besides grasses of many, many different kinds (including various strains of sugar and some weird, bitter but tasty type of cocoa), there's very little else. Some strange meats, a few earthy vegetables like some sweet potatoes and onions. It's a bit different than what he's used to.
While you guys are sipping in preparation of the feast, the Chief speaks in a conversational tone. "Should you ever wish to come meet us again, simply say the word Sala' thide when you approach our Taudo. We don't often meet outsiders, and would be glad to trade items of the plains for things that you probably have in abundance." He smiles slightly and picks up a curious small child, pulling the infant onto his lap. "Would you like to hear the story of the Manfri?"
One warrior, meanwhile, inspecting Grymash, nudges his axe slightly and says, "Goot. Cut goot?" He seems curious about the strange weapon. Unlike the other Manfri, he wields a strange sort of double-sickle thing, which is somewhat similar.
Milo Tuesday March 11th, 2003 8:56:32 AM
bowing in thanks, Milo retrieves his pack and enters the kitchen. after a few minutes of trying to organize his thoughts and the items available to him, he decides to start with the potatoes, onions and vegetables.
making a hot salad of sorts.
boiling the potatoes until they are borderline soft, he strains them, and sets them aside, then, in bite size for the Manfri, he dices the vegetables and onions and adds them to the cooling potatoes and finally, cutting the grass in Milo-finger sized strips. mixing the potatoes and vegetables and onions evenly, then adding the grass on top for a garnishment. he tastes it, and adds spices from his pack til it pleases him, then walking up to Cheetyl he offers her a taste before having it sent out to be served.
then, pulling out foodstuff from his pack, and taking their bitter tasting cocoa (he always has the fixings for cookies) he begins making enough cookies to feed everyone at the celebration 4 each. *Chocolate Sugar cookies*
Trellus Tuesday March 11th, 2003 11:16:10 AM
Trellus gratefully accepts the cup of milk, lifts it to his lips, and methodically chugs it down.
Exhaling satisfactorally, he sets down his cup, and looks at the server, "Many shadows, truly."
Turning to the Chief, he remarks, "I can well believe you get few visitors. We had no idea you were out here."
The young man's grin return as he watches the tiny child climb onto the small man's lap. "The tale of the Manfri would be shady", he replies. Then Trellus looks pensively at the far wall and adds, "Also, if its permitted, please speak of your magic that bound me here, when I should have crossed to meet the Gods."
Anuk Tuesday March 11th, 2003 11:39:37 AM
"Chief, we are grateful for your help and your generosity. We would be honored to hear the story of the manfri." That's what Anuk meant to say.
"Um...sure...," he actually said.
Sterlin Tuesday March 11th, 2003 5:37:41 PM
" Yes we would very much like to hear the story. At least Trellus didn't say dude this time. What does dude mean anyway? Isn't that what you try not to step in out in the fields? "
Grymash Wednesday March 12th, 2003 9:28:14 AM
Grymash's expression changes with a big grin and he says, "Yes ... it cut real goot!"
ADM Mikey Wednesday March 12th, 2003 3:30:04 PM
Jacob mumbles, "Man, this is so shady..." as he watches the shaman, the more confident of the two wearing the circle pendants, stands up after the Chief's words. While he speaks, youths bring out bowls of soup and Milo's rather quickly prepped up salad to eat. "I am Araxo, Speaker of my People, Defender of the Five Circles, Servant of the Wind. For a time now, we have been friends with you, the members of Rattledam, and are glad to meet younger members of your tribe for once. Should you ever find yourself lost among the plains, you now know the word, Sala 'Thide, which will tell a Manfri that you are a friend. And now, I will tell the story of the Kall'a'tek." Youths, even though some don't speak all the common tongue, chatter to each other and gather around the room, except for the few who continue bringing in food and drinks for all. "Our story goes back to the ancient days, when the Manfri were happy. Times of plenty were all we knew. We only ate the grass back then, and while it was mainly flavorless at that time, it was satisfying because we had nothing to fear. Life was hard, but the few enemies we had we could all fight, and well. We wared the Wyrms, and were careful of the Bounders. Our hunters would sometimes catch the Dozyl, that which you call the prairie pigs, and the Dozan, that which you call the prairie swallow. At these times, it would feed many Manfri, and there would be great rejoicing. We would use every part of it, respecting the Plains. "But over time, more creatures came to the Plains. This was part of the cycle of life, we knew, and slowly we adapted, learning our enemies' weaknesses and adopting their strengths as our own. But then came the Barons. "The Barons came with some mysterious shadow king, one who dwelled in darkness, and like them, seeks only destruction. At first they were death on the plains, slaughtering all before them. The Manfri would stick many arrows in one, and it would fall, only to rise later, and continue in its destructive rampage. "For these creatures' memories would flee their bodies, and, with the power of their dark magic, would pass to their nearest kin. With this, they would take over more, and the more we killed, the more they came back. The forces of darkness continued to rise, and all seemed lost on the Plains." He stops here...sighing and putting a hand on his forehead. Somewhat sad servants start placing the main meal, which is layered grass and meat with some small amount of cheese (think lasagna, but beefier), a spicy mixture of thin, crispy beans, and some slices of crumbly carrot bread. He continues...
"Then the Wind spoke to us once more, telling our highest shaman the ritual. We would have to skin our enemies and let their parts be scattered to the plains. Only in such a way would their thoughts be scattered with their death, and their madness cease. We could not eat them, for they were like poison, as their loathsome deity. We, who were so used to using all we could, had to leave waste upon the plains. "Though we were now weakened, we fought with renewed vigor and belief in the Wind. Their arrows would return to them, their beasts would fall beneath its fury, and our warriors were triumphant in battle. We beat back the shadows as much as we could, and now engage in a war with them, one which, someday, we will win. For we are still few, and they are many, but now we know how to defeat them, and we are the Manfri, the Servants of the Wind. "Before every feast, we give thanks to the Wind, for its bounties and gifts upon us, its simple folk, the Manfri."
Various people chatter with each other, as the shaman sits back down. More juice is brought, and people begin on their main course, as above.
Trellus Wednesday March 12th, 2003 4:20:29 PM
Upon hearing Sterlin's remark, Trellus beams at his friend, and laughingly replies, "Dude! That's doo, not dude. Dudes don't do 'doo', dudes do 'dude', don't dey?" Hiding a smile behind a cup, he drains it dry, and settles down to listen to Araxo.
He continues smiling as the Shaman starts his tale. "So the beaters know about this place? We need to weave on our trip here to Galafar. That should totally twist his warp."
Soon, his smile quickly slips from his face, replaced by astonishment. "Those were BARONS! Oh that's totally bright."
Finally, astonishment is replaced with concern. "Are you saying it was the magic of the Barons that prevented my memories from departing, not yours?" the young man fearfully asks.
Anuk Thursday March 13th, 2003 11:26:27 AM
Exhausted from the events of the last day and night, and with his belly full, Anuks eyes slowly droop closed. As he drifts into sleep, his mind plays over the story of the manfri; the fight with the rapke, barons, and bounders; and the delicate search for the pod. The last thing he remembers before his head hits the table is grass. Lots and lots of grass.
Sterlin Thursday March 13th, 2003 10:31:25 PM
Sterlin sits back enjoying the story and thinking if he never went back it would be o.k. with him. The plains have been calling and he is finally here. He feeds his spiders and wrestles with them for awhile, happier than he has been in a long time.
ADM Mikey Thursday March 13th, 2003 11:07:50 PM
"Let me answer, master," says the Manfri with the pendant who had not given the speech. "No, young sir, our magic did prevent your death. Should you ever be in a battle with the Barons again, you should not rely upon such to save you....it is a ritual that the Wind has taught us. However, should you ever fight them again, if you do as we did, skinning them and scattering their innards, they would die a true death, that is the ritual that we speak of in this story." "Indeed, Osaku," says the Shaman to his apprentice. His tone grows darker, somewhat laden with warning, "As to saying what you know about the Manfri to the members of your town, we must ask you to be cautious and speak only to the protectors of the circles. The leaders of your community, only they know and meet with the Manfri. It is a matter of great importance and security. As you have aided us against the Barons, we are thankful and consider you honorary protectors, and we will tell of you to your tribe's leaders, and I'm sure that they will give you thanks and many praises. We know of this Galafar, and while he is not of the second circle, he is still one respected defender. "You are welcome to visit us anytime, and we will even sell you items of the plains. We will also enjoy more of your friend's cooking, which the little ones seem to like." Chocolate cookies come out, and immediately the children get very excited. Hopefully, Milo made enough for all, especially since one particular child, fascinated by the spiders, attempts to feed them cookies.
Another pendant-wearing Manfri walks in, carrying the items from the dead creature. Here's what you got: (And I would like someone to volunteer to be official recorder of all pack equipment/money) 50 platinum (already mentioned!)
A somewhat cleaned but still slightly blood-splattered Scroll of Flame Arrow (Cast at 5th level)
A small blue bottle with pink liquid. (Potion of Aid)
A short stick, activated with the word "Balen!" (only by bard, priest/druid or rogue with successful check), will cast Cure Moderate Wounds. Has 12 charges.
The gem Jacob spotted was an Purple Prism Ioun Stone, capable of storing spell levels.
After giving you guys the items and chatting for a bit more, the Manfri whisk their children away. The Chief smiles. "Now it is time for you to return home, young warriors. Rattledam is a safe and wonderful place, from what I hear. Such capable defenders as yourself must be highly prized and valued."
The Chief quickly organizes a party to take you back to Rattledam, and they stand up, ready to leave.
DM Anthony = Everyone make a spot check of 20 before leaving. (Something Mikey dosent know and Im not gonna tell him, he he he he!!!)
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