Sterlin Friday August 29th, 2003 2:04:19 PM
Sterlin walks through the door, once again thinking to himself and looking distant. He mutters quietly to no one, " I made the choice to love the plains long ago. "
Gilan Friday August 29th, 2003 7:42:01 PM
Gilan eats in silence as the others talk amongst themselves. "Not as spicy as usual...very good though."
When the Walker is asked some questions he looks up to listen to the answers with interest. Everything that is said makes sense...nature is like that...a system of checks and balances. Looking up he glances to the Walker again, opening his mouth he closes it quickly and then asks his question anyways. "Is it possible for trees to ever grow here on the plains..."
His eyes are bright as he waits to hear the answer. It has been something that he has dreamed about for a long time. He can see that maybe a little more of his thoughts could be in order. "I often dream of a large tree growing in a short grass circle of the plains. There is a sense of peace when I dream of this and also a feeling that I have a job to do." He shakes his head as he rubs his hand through his hair. "Maybe it is a crazy dream....." He does not seem to think so though as you look into his eyes.
When the Walker takes out his portable home and sets it up, he smiles. Something like this could come in very handy for the pack. He follows the others inside and quietly lays down on one of the stone beds.
Flea d20+8=20 Friday August 29th, 2003 8:09:02 PM
For the first time since leaving Rattledam, the rogue's face lights up with a huge smile. "Ah! The next best thing to a city full of locked doors...the underground!" exclaims Flea. The big grin stays on her face as she passes through the doorway held open by the strange Plainswalker. Once inside, she picks a stone bed near Gilan. She wraps herself in her bedroll and studies the Manfri type markings of the cave (Decipher Script=20)before nodding off.
Anuk Friday August 29th, 2003 8:14:38 PM
Chewing on the last tasty bits of beetle, Anuk watches the figures the walker draws in the dirt as he explains how the creatures and peoples of the plains work together and balance each other. After the explanations, he follows the others through the doorway, but a question still nags at him.
"Sir,...what was this 'great evil' you spoke of? If the Wold is fighting back, what is it fighting against? I mean, if we are to become protectors of the Plains, what are we fighting against?"
Vestrati Monday September 1st, 2003 3:13:01 PM
Unsure of what's going on Vestrati follows the others through the portal, his hands carefully hovering near his side. As of yet no one has really explained the situation and what is going on to him, these people act so odd compared to other's he's seen in his travel.
Trellus Monday September 1st, 2003 3:31:51 PM
Trellus listens as carefully as possible. So many threads we don't know exist he ponders.
When Anuk asks the question, Trellus cocks his head intently at the Walker, and then gives a slight grin. "You're not gonna answer that one," he predicts.
At the sudden appearance of an entire cave, the cleric can only say, "Shady," and crawl in.
Flea Monday September 1st, 2003 5:15:45 PM
Flea has trouble falling asleep. Each time she nods off, she has frightening dreams of rapke emerging from the bursting backs of tortured prairie pigs, and bounders crawling from rapke as the later's painful screams rend the air. Then the rain falls, glistening off the bounders who are then consumed by insects in a humming, buzzing frenzy.
Unable to sleep, she rolls over, her eyes wide open, and spies the newcomer, Vestrati, looking lonesome and confused.
"The Walker says you're one of us now, friend" says the gnome. In a hushed voice, so as not to disturb the others who might be sleeping, she tries to summarize their story.
"We're called the Blood Pack. The 6 fellows here, and one other, who is no longer with us, took on this name after their first experience on the plains. They accepted me shortly afterwards, when I was unexpectedly packaged and sent off from my homeland (but that's another story.) We have been learning about the grasslands and the ways of Rattledam. Recently we swore an oath to protect the plains, although none of us are exactly sure what we are to do." Flea pauses to catch her breath, then continues. "We have been sent on a mission to witness certain events. I believe it is to be taught by the plains and learn the circle of life out 'there'." Flea gestures towards the entrance of the cavern. "From what the Walker has said, it sounds like we may play a part in maintaining a precious balance in this place. It seems there are 'others' who seek to break the circle, or tip the balance."
As an afterthough, the gnome adds, "When we took the oath, we were given a special gift. We can communicate with each other, and with other's who have taken the oath simply by sending them a thought. It makes your insides feel funny."
Flea crawls out of her bedroll, and says in a loud voice, "Guys! Blood Pack! I think we need to teach this guy, uh, Vestrati, the Oath. Is that okay with you, Mr. Walker, sir?"
DM Anthony Monday September 1st, 2003 10:08:33 PM
The walker looks at Gilan with a hard cold look when the young boy asks his question. Then softens it somewhat as he answers.
"Yes boy there is a treee that will grow in the plains. One tree. The wood of that tree makes the boats that sail the plains. Se the wood of the tree repels the grass. A tree of this nature planted in the plains will kill the grass in a wide circle, growing wider with each year the tree grows. The tree breaks the cycle and unblanaces everything. However the wood is so valuable that the raiders take any that arent well protected when they are old enough and sell them killing the monks who raise them. Hence the raiders play a part in the balance."
Flea looks about at the markings and can tell there is clearly some sort of language here, but whay cant she see it. Why cant she read it. It seems to be just there, like out of the corner of her eye, but every time she gets near to it the meaning evades her.
Anuk aske his question and Tellus teases the Walker, but the Walker simply smiles widely. I would answer that question if I could. there was a great evil and that is all I was told. Being somewhat of a nosey scolar I believe I have discovered two pieces of information. The first is that the Crystal Range was born before the rest of the plains, perhaps thousands of years before. And the second is that there are four places that seem to have everything to do with the plains, their creation, and perhaps their distruction. They are named in legends, prophacys and myth, over and over again." His voice gose strange almost as if he were in a trance...
"The twins stare forever bold But Starlight deep holds the key Rattledam, she spires, a brave new hold But beware the white, for she will see.
These four are what we fear to bring They are what no mortal will ever be But in time the brave can learn to sing and secerets are all brought forth to see."
After a monment of silence he shakes himself from the trance and smiles, then turning without a word he closes the dorr that seems to dissapear, and crosses to his bunk. Latter that night when Flea broaches the subject of the Oath his voice is heard from far below his blankets.
"Aye, if you and yours are going to claim him, it might be a good idea to teach him so."
Anuk Tuesday September 2nd, 2003 3:26:57 AM
Feeling secure for the first time since the pack left Rattledam, Anuk sleeps; his dreams a mixture of the voice of the walker, the imagery from the verse, the wonders he imagines in the Crystal Range, the storm they lived through, and the transformations they have witnessed. Any who might see him in the night would see that a smile lays across his face.
Gilan Tuesday September 2nd, 2003 2:33:07 PM
Gilan sets up most of the night as he ponders the words of the Walker. Would he be going against what he has agreed to protect by wanting to plant a tree of that kind here in the plains?
With a heavy heart and even more questions he falls into a fitfilled sleep. He dreams of many things that night and what they have seen is most of it. The cycle if broken would make him like those that he hates the most...the barons.
Waking the next morning he is in a rather dark humor and spends much of his time by himself. When he gets back to Rattledam he will make it a point to talk to Malafret.
Sterlin Tuesday September 2nd, 2003 5:21:19 PM
Sterlin sleeps, dreaming of the quest which lies before the pack and of his future as a plainswalker.
Dm Anthony Tuesday September 2nd, 2003 6:14:42 PM
Hello all!
I have these 3.5 sheets.
Gilan Vestrati sterlin Trellus Anuk Flea
Missing Jake and Gry... also a little dissapointing to only see three posts.... We cant move on much till I have those two sheets. Combat is next. one the likes you have never seen!!!
and then........
Evil smile!!!
Flea Tuesday September 2nd, 2003 8:19:52 PM
When the Plainswalker gives the 'okay', Flea moves closer to the dark halfling, nearly her size. "Do like I do", she says. The gnome clasps her right hand in a tight fist, and as she brings it towards her heart, she covers it with her left hand. Bowing her head slightly, she says in a hoarse whisper, "The land, my life."
If Vestrati follows suit, she will smile at him, and send a 'heart tickle', to confirm that he has joined the circle.
Trellus Tuesday September 2nd, 2003 8:56:36 PM
The young cleric ponders the Walker's words. The Twins, Starlight Deep, Rattledam, The White. So I know about one. Light.
Listening to Flea give Vestrati the oath, he again wonders how this man is supposed to replace the halfing he's known since birth.
Not this dude's fault, I guess, he decides.
Adding to Flea's words, Trellus says, "We are pledged to protect the great secret of this land, without knowing what that secret may be. We have all looked within ourselves to make that oath. I am certain we are bound to a good thing, and I guess the rest of the pack does as well. If you're to be bound with us, think on that first. Talki fresal, dondit liki. : The land, my life." And Trellus too sends a heart tickle to all the pack.
Grymash Wednesday September 3rd, 2003 12:26:22 AM
Grymash continues to munch away. Eating gives Grymash great delight. So much so that he rocks hurridly back and forth where he sits on the ground. Various juices run from his mouth. He doesnt seem to be aware how he appears to the others. Truely, the way to a half-orc's heart is through his four-chambered stomach.
Grymash then notices Flea beginning to teach the oath. A big goofy smile forms across his bulging cheeks. A few lucky grubs escape as he mumbles, "Hmmm, buaah whuua mu swaada ... heee hee hmm!"
Jake Wednesday September 3rd, 2003 5:29:09 AM
Jake goes to sleep. All this talk of balance and stuff is good...but why not just wipe out the evil? if it's evil, don't you just get rid of it? I mean, if wolves are eating villagers and sheep, you kill the wolves, then you kill a few sheep...you don't have a perpetual battle against 'em... Shaking his head, he goes to sleep. Things seem so difficult, when they should be so easy.
Dm Anthony Wednesday September 3rd, 2003 9:55:12 AM
Almost as if reading Jakes mind the walker says one last thing before drifting off to sleep. The face of evil is often hard to see. Sometimes even your greatest enemy can be something more than a focus of your hate.
Flea continues to teach Vestrati the oath until he can almost feel the heart touch, and Flea is almost sure she felt his back at one point.
Then morning dawns and the walker has risen and prepared breakfast. once it is eaten he looks about and smiles. "Perhaps you would allow me to follow you on the remainder of your treck? I might be of some help?"
Trellus Wednesday September 3rd, 2003 1:14:18 PM
In the morning, Trellus takes time to pray to Domi and request his spells:
Domain 1 -- Enlarge Person Domain 2 -- Bull's Strength
At the Walker's request, Trellus forms a mental picture of what Sterlin would do if he said 'no'.
Chuckling to himself, the cleric responds, "Dude, it'd be the night soil if you came, too."
He thinks a moment. "I don't think we caught your name. How should we call you?"
Sterlin Wednesday September 3rd, 2003 3:41:23 PM
" Pardon my friend, to this day I have no idea why he keeps saying dude. In my life I've never even heard of the word. Anyway, It would indeed be an honour to have you join us. "
Gilan Wednesday September 3rd, 2003 4:26:39 PM
Gilan feels the light heart-touch of his friends and returns it in kind, allow it to pass to Verati as well. He quickly makes himself ready to leave, having eaten a little and done his morning tasks.
He gives a start when the Walker suggest him accompanying them. Looking to the rest as some agree easily he nods. "Truly an honor it would be to have you among us."
Anuk Wednesday September 3rd, 2003 7:29:57 PM
When morning arrives, Anuk stretches and yawns, getting up slowly and sleepily. He shakes his head to clear it and then sniffs. "Mmmm...breakfast."
As he prepares for the day he feels the heart touch from those around him, possibly, he realizes, even one from the newcomer. He returns it, grins at the halfling and extends his gloved hand."Welcome to the pack. I'm afraid with everything we've been through, I neglected to properly introduce myself. I'm Anuk."
As the morning progresses, Anuk finds a bit of time to himself to meditate and prepare a spell (magic fang). Still feeling slightly awkward with the process, he marvels at how naturally it seems to work.
When the walker offers to follow the pack, Anuk gratefully accepts. "Thank you for wanting to come with us. If I may, sir, I have one more question: what's your name?"
Jake Wednesday September 3rd, 2003 7:45:34 PM
Jake sighs, lost as usual. What does the walker mean? Doesn't he know that there's evil guys who just worship evil priests out there? And people who just enslave and kill others without remorse... Evil just is, it isn't shades of gray. That's the world, divided between those who are good, those who are evil, and those who don't care. If someone is willing to kill someone innocent to save others, they're still evil. Morality is a simple set of rules one must follow, or else one gets drawn deeper and deeper to the wrong path. Jake thinks more, and makes a firm decision in the back of his mind... He glances at the others and seems a bit unsure, then sends a slight pulse out.
Flea d20+8=15 Wednesday September 3rd, 2003 9:55:35 PM
The rogue helps herself to some of the breakfast victuals prepared by the plainswalker. As she sits on the edge of the stone bed, enjoying the food, she studies the markings on the wall once again (Decipher Script=15). Their meaning is as elusive as ever.
Grymash Thursday September 4th, 2003 9:34:17 AM
Still snoring along with some other annoying noises.
DM Anthony Thursday September 4th, 2003 10:59:04 AM
The Walker wakes Gry with some food held under the half-orcs nose, enticing him awake and eating. When asked his name he smiles thoughtfuly and laughs to himself.
"Name...I seem to have forgotten my given name, most my friends call me The Black Watch, or if you prefer you all may call me Black."
With that he packs up his marvoluous house and stands ready to follow, wating to see where you all are headed.
(OOC: everyones sheets are in so were ok!)
Trellus Thursday September 4th, 2003 1:24:02 PM
The blond man laughs good-naturedly at Sterlin's comment.
"I heard a trader say it once, and thought it was shady," he answers.
He grins. "Plus, it twists Sterlin's thread."
Speaking of Sterlin
"So, which way does the compass say?" Trellus asks, and takes up position in the middle of the line for the march.
Anuk Thursday September 4th, 2003 4:43:31 PM
"Thank you, Black. If you have any stories to tell, or if there is more about the Plains you think would be useful for us to hear as we travel today, we would love to know more."
Standing in the early morning heat, Anuk checks his bow, his arrows, and his swords and his pack, making sure all is ready for whatever may lie ahead. Satisfied that everything is in order, he turns to face the grasses and makes a hissing sound unlike anything you've heard from him before. There is a sudden flash of movement in the grass and Anuk is suddenly wrapped in what can only be described as 'snake'. A tan and green viper, easily six feet long or more, twists around Anuk's chest and shoulders, it's head resting on his shoulder, dangerously close to his exposed neck. Somehow, Anuk remains calm.
"Everyone...meet Twinge."
Flea Thursday September 4th, 2003 5:40:39 PM
Flea makes sure that everthing is in it's place inside her pack. She shoulders it, and picks up her weapons, in preparation for their next quest. "Yeah, Sterlin. What does the compass say?"
Tiev and Zilia Thursday September 4th, 2003 5:43:34 PM
When the druid emerges from Black's portable home, he is dive-bombed by two very happy wasps. Tiev and Zilia are very glad to see that Gilan is still alive, and buzz excitedly about him.
Gilan Thursday September 4th, 2003 7:24:11 PM
Gilan laughs as the two wasps buzz in his direction and circle him. "Yes little ones...I am most happy to see you too." Turning a critical eye to them he smiles. "I hope that you both have been eating well...we have more traveling to do."
He glances around at the rest of the group, taking time to inspect the new viper that has appeared. "Seems you made a new friend sometime...and didn't bother to tell us." He smiles so that Anuk knows that he is kidding.
Glancing to Sterlin he nods in agreement with the rest and feels more comfortable now that Black is coming with them. "Got a direction for us Sterlin?"
*NOTE: Changed the one spell as I forgot about the new spontaneous casting.*
Jake Friday September 5th, 2003 3:05:46 AM
Jake seems even quieter than usual as he moves to join the group. He looks about, rubbing a bit of growth on his chin, faintly realizing he hasn't shaved in a few days then realizing it never really matters...he doesn't seem destined to grow a beard... He looks at the Walker, wanting to ask questions, but deciding he'll find the answers himself. He starts sharpening his sword, calmly.
Vestrati Friday September 5th, 2003 4:16:33 AM
As the others prepare for the next journey the compass leads them on Vestrati grabs a quick bit of grub and checks his equipment over. After which, he joins the others and prepares to set out, a little less confused than before, he guesses this new group will take a lot of getting used to.
Grymash Friday September 5th, 2003 10:51:45 AM
Grymash snorts to life as food is placed under his nose. He accepts it most willingly. He works out the cramp in his hand from clutching a dagger all night long in his sleep.
Grymash isnt his normal good-natured self. He is quiet and keeps to himself away from the pack. His eyes glow and reflect the sparks from his whetstone as he sharpens his axe. His face is stoic, expressing no emotion, just a quiet grim stare at his weapon.
Being under the earth, in the dark, has awakened another part of Grymash's psyche ... the side of death. He can feel the spirits of those who have passed on flowing around him. Gry can hear their wails and whispers. Words of woe, warnings, pleas for help and requests for dark deeds.
His minds eye is still haunted with visions of a great river of blood. An image he witnessed in his dream ... the dream that held him fast asleep while the pack made breakfast. Grymash mutters blessings and curses to help rid himself of these images and spectors all while in time with the grating sound of stone against steel.
Once satisfied with his work, Grymash puts on his armor and starts to pray to Gargul. When done, he waits for his pack to exit the cave. After praying, Gry casts a few spells. "Mend" on his waterskin that burst during the electrical storm. He then casts "Create Water" to fill it with water if there isnt any water in the cave.
(Spells: Level 0: Detect magic, Mend, Create water (2)
DM Anthony Friday September 5th, 2003 1:39:04 PM
The cave has plenty of fresh water in it and you may all fill your skins there so there is no need to wast the spell, Sterlin quickly finds the direction and points you all off in it. As you all head off Black begins talking about the plains and the grasses and well a bit of everything. Anyone who chooses to listen intently make a Int. Check of 5 and be able to move up to 4 skil points from any skill or skills you allready posess and move them into a) Knowldge Sargrass Plains, or Survival Sargrass Plains, or split them among the two.
After about 6 hours a great deal of noise and the sounds of animals fighting is heard from about 1/4 of a mile up ahead.
Gilan d20+1=8 Friday September 5th, 2003 3:05:17 PM
Gilan listens (int check *) intently to what the Walker has to say about the plains. Who better to learn from than someone that lives on the plains everyday. Still he keeps his other senses on the surroundings so as not to miss anything.
After traveling for some time he hears the sounds of battle a distance ahead. He stops with the others for a few seconds and hangs back. "Should we check out that battle...could it be the next even." With the last he looks to Sterlin for confirmation.
*Anth - Will send you an update with the moves on those skill points.*
Anuk d20+1=2 Friday September 5th, 2003 4:52:45 PM
Smiling at Gilan, Anuk strokes the head of the snake curled about his shoulders. "Yep, new friend all right...I became aware of Twitch as we left Rattledam. He's been following us in the grasses these last few days, but he did not choose to join us until today. I'm not sure what changed his mind, but I'm glad he seems to trust me now." Anuk hisses again, and the viper slithers down to the ground and trails alongside as the group follows the directions of Sterlin and the ball.
As Anuk walks, he thinks again over the last events they witnessed. The words of the walker remind him of the verses Black taught them last night, and he begins to ponder the possible meanings of the symbols and words. As the pack approaches the noise ahead Anuk snaps back to the present and realizes he's missed much of what Black has been telling them (Intelligence check = 2. Curse these low rolls :-()
Trellus d20+2=18 Friday September 5th, 2003 10:40:43 PM
Having remembered to resume breathing, Trellus gives Anuk a dirty look. "Light, Anuk. How 'bout a 'Hey I got a pet snake' or something next time?"
The cleric stays close to Black, digesting everything he can about this land he is sworn to protect (Int check 18).
Upon hearing the sounds he stops and looks at Black and Sterlin. "What do you think?"
Sterlin Saturday September 6th, 2003 10:01:05 AM
Sterlin looks at the sphere to see if it leads in the direction of battle. In his heart he alreafy knows.
" Friends, Packmates, we have been through much." Sterlin pauses and sends the heart-touch to each of you. "We earned our name, bloodpack, in trials and combat and blood. I believe we have up to now had only a taste of what is ahead. Talki fresal, dondit liki. The land, my life. Let us pause for a moment and take the oath together in unison before moving on. Let us reflect on the oath and upon one another. Finally, let us march forward into battle as one, as we will into any battle that comes our way as we truly live our lives for the land."
Sterlin then covers his heart with his hands and waits for the others to do likewise.
DM Anthony Tuesday September 9th, 2003 11:32:30 AM
The path you need to tread does indeed lead to the battle ahead. The Animal sounds of ripping and tearing flesh ahead are clear, also clear is that right infront of where you have stoped is a large watter mound. Like the one you steped on and burst near the cave that Gry jumped into.
Flea d20+23=36 d20+11=21 Tuesday September 9th, 2003 7:07:10 PM
Flea smiles at her pack mates, as she blends subtly with the grasses of the plains (Hide=36). Her pack mates hear her light voice as she volunteers, "I'll go ahead and see what I can. You can follow, or wait until I come back." There is a slight rustle in the grass, but not much else (Move Silently=21) as the furtive gnome sneaks around the bulge that contains the water. Flea is careful to give the natural phenomena a wide berth, in order not to disturb it.
Trellus Tuesday September 9th, 2003 9:20:54 PM
The young cleric gives Black a quick look, but it seems the Walker is just going to follow along.
"Let's go. Three columns." He manages a quick grin. "Stay together."
Then, he moves off following the same path Flea took, around the bulge of water.
Anuk d20+6=12 d20+9=22 Tuesday September 9th, 2003 11:25:22 PM
"Ah yes...together this time...got it," says Anuk with a wink, recalling the near debacle with the raiders. "Definitely for the best."
Anuk hisses at Twinge, and the snake slithers up to his shoulders and rests. Like Flea and Trellus before him, he gives the water mound plenty of room. He draws his bow and takes up a position just off to the side of the gnome, heading up a second column, looking and listening for anything on either side of the pack as they creep toward the noise ahead.
(Listen 12, Spot 22)
DM Anthony Wednesday September 10th, 2003 10:32:23 AM
Eventualy you sneak up to another small clearing, maybe about 100 feet across at the most, In the middle is another large watter buldge and all around it are aproxamately 5 Rapke. They are wild though, that much is clear, although they seem afraid of the water bubble. Suddenly it is clear why as something thrashes inside it. The Rapke scream and scatter back, but quickly regain their composure, they begin moving foreward again, and it is clear that they mean to kill or destroy what ever thrashes within that bubble. It is clear that you have found your next event.
Grymash d20+3=23 d20+8=22 Wednesday September 10th, 2003 1:08:24 PM
Gry's grips his weapon tightly as he watches the scene. He listens intently to try and recognise whatever the sound is coming from the water bubble. His face remains expressionless ... showing no wonder of the event, or anger and hatred for the rapke.
(Listen 23, natural 20. Survival 22)
Trellus Wednesday September 10th, 2003 2:34:50 PM
The cleric looks at the thrashing bubble and the rapke, and his mind races with one rather serious question.
"Are the rapke part of the event, or trying to stop it?" he asks Black, or anybody else willing to answer.
In the meantime, better start weaving some spells.
Trellus touches Grymash, infusing him with Bulls Strength (+4 to STR for 4 minutes).
Gilan [AC: 18*19dodge*] d20+10=12 d20+4=14 d20+6=24 d20+1=4 d20+6=12 d20+13=23 d20+7=10 Wednesday September 10th, 2003 2:57:59 PM
Gilan glances to the water bulge ahead of them and smiles with a memory. It then changes to a grimace as he remember the outcome that last time.
He takes a couple of minutes to look over the situation before them, trying to pick out what is what before him. "So...who do you think is the good and the bad down there." With a look to Trellus he nods to the fight to happen below them. "I would vote on the wild rapke to be the enemy here."
With a nod as the others start to move out he forms up with the rest. He gives the bulge a wide berth and gently lays his hands on Gry before he moves on.
Sterlin Wednesday September 10th, 2003 4:21:07 PM
Sterlin casts entangle, centered on the rapke in the middle.
" Protect the bubble, I believe we are to learn its purpose. "
Vestrati Wednesday September 10th, 2003 6:59:28 PM
Only slightly familiar with their foes Vestrati draws forth his crossbow and notches a bolt, also making sure the dagger and sword at his belt are loose in the scabbard and ready to fly.
"Perhaps Sterlin, maybe we should try to push back the Rapke and wait to see what emerges..."
Jake Wednesday September 10th, 2003 7:40:27 PM
Jake hangs out by Vestrati, not exactly trusting the guy. he also doesn't know about this snake thing Anuk's got. The guy's Hissing, for Wold's sake. He shakes his head and concentrates on the Rapke's, keeping his sword and shield at the ready. "Ya know, it's times lahk this, ah always wanted ta be a farmar."
Flea d20+23=41 d20+11=23 Wednesday September 10th, 2003 9:37:59 PM
Hearing the familiar rustle and clank of her friends, as they fan out through the grass, Flea presses on invisible (Hide=41) and silent (Move Silently=23). She stands on the perimeter of the clearing and witnesses, along with her pack-mates, the strange event unfolding before them.
Her hand grasps her shortbow a little more firmly as she draws an arrow from the quiver on her back.
Tiev and Zilia d20+15=20 d20+15=20 Wednesday September 10th, 2003 9:47:33 PM
Sensing an occaision of some significance, the wasps drift on the morning breezes until they land on blades of grass near their companion. Their camoflage causes them to blend into their surroundings.
Tiev - Hide=20 Zilia - Hide=20
Anuk Thursday September 11th, 2003 2:15:00 AM
Anuk stops with the rest of the pack and watches the rapke in the clearing. He instructs Twinge to drop to the ground, then turns his attention to the bulge in the center of the clearing.
He addresses anyone who'll listen. "Ummm...whatever's gonna come out of there...think it'll get us wet? Are we too close?"
DM Anthony Thursday September 11th, 2003 9:23:11 AM
One of the Rapke clearly aserts a leadership position and hissing at the otheres they seem to fan out all about the bubble and close in. The bubble thrashes and some leap back, but with a shrp bark from the leader they move in. Their intent clear, they mean to kill whatever lies in the giant bubble. Black has dissapeared.
Trellus (ac18, spiritual weapon) d20+7=20 d8+1=4 Thursday September 11th, 2003 11:07:41 AM
The cleric takes in the scene, and notes that Black is gone.
"Right," he mutters.
"Let's weave, dudes. Sterlin, try to wrap up the leader. Everyone else, hit the nearest rapke. Maybe we can twist two before they even know we're here."
Noting the half-orc's unusual lack of bluster, Trellus gives Grymash a quick nudge. "C'mon, Gry. Time to get warped up"
Stepping forward slightly, the cleric calls out and a glowing hammer appears next to the nearest rapke. It slams down on the beast.
Hit AC 20 for 4 hp.
Gilan [AC: 20*21dodge*] (barkskin+2) Thursday September 11th, 2003 2:22:22 PM
Gilan casts barkskin on himself right before they move towards the clearing to save the bubble thing.
Glancing around he notices that Black is missing and shakes his head. "Seems we are on our own here." His smile widens as he has an idea. "Remember what Black taught us about hiding from the wild rapke...if we can be successful then we maybe able to get close without being noticed." He lets himself slip into thought of love and happiness...joyous times spent with his pack, Kaili's smiling face and moments spent together and of nature itself.
Anuk (AC 20) d20+12=22 d8+6=7 Thursday September 11th, 2003 6:53:16 PM
Briefly wondering where Black has disappeared to, Anuk follows Trellus' lead and pulls back on his bowstring, aims at the same rapke that Trellus attacked, and lets the arrow fly.
(If we ARE w/in 30 ft, then Anuk hits AC22 for 7 pts. If we ARE NOT w/in 30ft then Anuk hits AC19 for 5 pts. Bonuses: +1 atk for mw arrows, +1 atk/dmg Point Blank Shot, +2 dmg for str bonus, +2 dmg Favored Enemy, +2 atk and +1 dmg bracers of archery.)
Jake d20+12=18 d10+6=13 Thursday September 11th, 2003 8:08:02 PM
Jake moves forward...perhaps that ranger was right, he thinks, and focuses his heart on his trust and love...if there's one thing he loves it's battle. He focuses his feelings entirely upon that pulse and moves inbetween the Rapke and their target, and holds his sword ready. Should any still attack him, he will attack back, hitting AC 18, dealing 13 damage, but otherwise he will just focus his will trying to make the Rapke stay away.
Flea d20+9=28 d4+1=2 Thursday September 11th, 2003 8:53:46 PM
A thin smile is brought to the gnome's face when she realizes she has chosen an arrow fletched with red. She pulls back easily on the bow and lets the arrow fly towards the nearest rapke target.
Flea hopes they are doing what is right, and that the thing in the bubble isn't something more horrible than bounders or rapke.
She is at first taken by surprise when she feels the tug at her heart, then she remembers the plainswalker's words, and understands what is happening. Seeing her plains-brothers out of the corner of her eye, she feels happy. For a brief moment she considers the oddity of an idependant rogue drawing comfort from friends, then she bends her mind to the task at hand and reaches for another arrow.
Flea Thursday September 11th, 2003 8:57:46 PM
[ooc: Sorry! Had a mental-pause. Hit AC 28 for 2 points of damage (+9 MW arrows, +1 PB shot to attack and damage) or should that be hit AC 29 because I forgot to add +1 to attack?!]
Tiev and Zilia d20+15=26 d20+15=21 Thursday September 11th, 2003 8:59:50 PM
The wasps remain camoflaged on the grass, nervously awaiting a signal from their companion.
Tiev Hide = 26 Zilia Hide = 21
Grymash (bulls str, barkskin, prot.evil) Friday September 12th, 2003 12:13:16 PM
Grymash calmly whispers back Trellus. "Gry ready for whatever happen. Maybe life in water was meant to die. It good day to die."
Gry casts Protect from Evil on himself.
Gilan [AC: 20*21dodge*] (barkskin+2) Friday September 12th, 2003 3:17:28 PM
Gilan keeps up with the new way of hiding from the wild rapke as they move forward. He wispers as they move. "Maybe we should trying taking a rapke on with larger numbers...like three on one." Glancing to Grymash he smiles and nods in his direction. "Gry there is the only one that will have a chance one on one with a rapke."
He has pulled off his shield with his left hand as well as pulling his scimitar with his right. He smiles as he moves forward...happy memories flooding his mind. With a short series of buzzes he lets his two friends know that they are to keep hidden and only attack if needed...he wants them to be safe for a while longer.
Anthony Sunday September 21st, 2003 8:35:20 PM
My most humble apologies all My family came into town and I have been busy entertaining, please forgive the lack of posting here and stay tuned. We are about to jump into pitched battle!!!
ADM Mikey Wednesday September 24th, 2003 1:48:21 AM
[Anthony's computer is cut off again, so I'm going to start posting the combat starting tomorrow morning. Be ready for the most ferocious creatures of the Plains!]
ADM Mikey Wednesday September 24th, 2003 11:48:39 AM
You are once more in a small clearing, about a 100 feet across at the most. The large water bulge is surrounded by worried Rapke. Wild, they are less muscular, bulky, and overall smaller than the Rapke the Barons possessed.
To protect the bubble seems the general goal of the group's actions. Sterlin is about to cast the entangle, when he realizes the positioning of the Rapke will make the spell impossible for anyone to approach. (See attached map. Note that Rapke # 3 appears to be the leader) Instead, he angles it to catch Rapke #1 and #2. Trellus, Anuk, and flea let loose arows at the closest Rapke, #3, then move closer. They are not close enough to get vital spots or use trained short-range tactics, but still seem to do some wounds at a distance. Vestrati, unsure of what to do, doesn't unload this round but stands ready. Jake, Grymash, and Gilan move up, as do the archers after they fire. Jake moves directly between #4 and #5 and the coccoon, and focuses. Grymash stands just a bit behind him, so he blocks #3 and #4. Gilan keeps back from the two tanks of the group, guarding the archers.
(All this was a surprise round, so now declare your actions and team leader {Sterlin? Trellus? Anuk? I know one of us was team leader} roll team initiative.)
(Also, everyone roll a will save, DC 15.)
Sterlin d20+9=14 Wednesday September 24th, 2003 12:45:38 PM
( I failed my will save. I don't remember ever doing a team initiative. This group is leaderless. We are bloodpack. We share leadership and everything must be agreed upon by each of us. )
(-A-)
Gilan [AC: 20*21dodge*] (barkskin+2) d20+8=10 Wednesday September 24th, 2003 3:47:40 PM
Gilan hangs back to cover the archers as they real tanks move forward. With a thought he casts another spell on himself in the form of guidance.
[Failed my saving throw even if it is against rapke abilities.]
Trellus (ac18, spiritual weapon rd2) d20+8=20 d20=6 d20+8=27 d8+1=6 d8=3 Wednesday September 24th, 2003 3:59:12 PM
(Well somebody's gotta do it - Init roll 6) Will save 20
Trellus moves forward with the rest, letting Domi's Hammer continue raining blows on Rapke3. (hit ac 27 for 6 hp).
"Gilan, your bless beads! Anuk, give Jake the strength spell!" he calls.
Quickly Trellus launches a spell of his own, blasting Rapke4 and Rapke5 with a wall of sound.
(Sound burst between R4 and R5. 3 hp damage each plus Fort save DC 16 or stunned one round)
Flea d20=16 d20+9=21 d4=2 Wednesday September 24th, 2003 8:48:40 PM
Flea wipes her brow with the back of her hand, then draws her bow. She edges between Jake and Anuk, in order to provide a little cover for Sterlin and to get better aim at Rapke #4. A red fletched arrow flies unerringly towards it's target. She tries to note the cleric's position, for Trellus appears to have emerged as the natural leader of the group.
Will Save=16 Hit AC 21/22 for 2/3 pt dmg (+9 MW arrow, PB Shot +1 to attack and damage if within 30 ft.)
(OOC: Trellus isn't marked on the map, but I assume he's somewhere in the pack! Thanks Mikey, for getting things going.)
Anuk (AC 18 - Frightened (round 1 of 7)) d20+3=14 2d6(1+6)=7 d20=6 d20+1=3 d20=16 2d6(5+6)=11 Thursday September 25th, 2003 12:27:09 AM
(initiative = 6)
At the sound of the Rapke's cries, Anuk feels his blood freeze and a shiver of terror washes over him (will save 14-failed for 7 rounds). Again?! he thinks. Must we go through this again?!
He hesitates momentarily until Trellus' words start to sink in. "Wha? Jake? Oh...right. I'm on it!" He reaches into his cloak and pulls the ioun stone out. Composing himself as best he can, he concentrates and casts Bull's Strength on Jake.
Meanwhile, Twinge glides quietly on the ground, circling the area around Anuk, confused and fearful at the sudden movement and noise. (will save 3 - failed for 11 rounds)
Grymash (bulls str, barkskin, prot.evil) d20+5=25 Thursday September 25th, 2003 4:17:53 PM
(Will save 25, nat. 20)
Grymash quickly stands up from one knee. He completely ignors the wails from the rapke. Instead of charging into battle Gry roars to his pack, "Stopp! Gry feel something black in this place. Me not know what in water. It may be more deserving of death. It might be its time to die this day ... death is coming ... Gry's eye see it!"
Grymash walks over to the water bubble and holds out his hand exposing his holy symbol, the Eye of Gargul. Grymash unleashes a wave of positive energy that fills the area (using turning/channeling energy ability, I need to check the 3.5 book).
Grymash shouts, "Reveal yourself to the Eyes of Gargul and be judged ... I, Grymash Mountainback, command it so!" Gry's voice sounds somewhat like an echo and lacks his normal orcish accent.
ADM Mikey d20+8=23 d20+8=24 d20=5 d20+5=6 d20+5=9 d20+5=23 d20+1=11 d20+8=17 d20+8=16 d20+10=13 d20+10=24 d8+6=7 d20+8=21 d20+8=22 d8+6=14 d8+6=14 d20+10=24 d20+8=12 d10+7=13 Friday September 26th, 2003 12:46:02 AM
(For saves 23+24, ref saves 6 and 9, init 5) Two of the Rapke stumble in the grass, tangled up and confused by it.
Grymash shouts out and the pulsing increases, if anything responds. Strangely, it feels as though the wrongness is lessening as he watches. (I'll have to ask Anthony about thae effects of his action, but no immediate results from it.)
Sterlin still gets an action if he chooses. (Failing the save means you are shaken, or -2 to attacks, AC, and saves for 4d6 rounds. Sorry about that!) Anuk pumps up Jake.
Flea hangs close to Sterlin and Anuk, and shoots at the rapke #4. (You can add in sneak attack damage, btw :) ) Her arrow digs into its haunch. (3 damage) Immediately afterwards, Rapke's #4 and #5 get pummeled with sonic force. (3 damage) Neither one of the creatures is paralyzed though.
Jake sees Grymash doing something and is confused, so he tries to buy some time...he turns around and tries to intimidate Rapke #4 and #5 with an enraged yell, returning their roars (initimidate 23). Both are put off by the smaller creature yelling at them and are shaken themselves. The Rapke leader growls at the group that's sent many painful arrows and disrupted its attempts to pierce the bubble...grymash in its immediate way, it attempts to claw him out of its way, growling in rage. (Hit AC 13 and 24.. I dunno your ac, but if it did hit on the 2nd, it did 7 damage.)
#4 and #5 are frightened. Nevertheless, #5 attemps to attack Jake. It horribly mangles him with two missed claws (28 damage). #4 examines the arrow in its flank, then turns and charges at Gilan (ignoring a stinging 13 damage attack of opportunity from Jake). Its bite misses rather stupendously.
(Your guys' turn...)
Grymash's turn/channel energy check d20=16 Friday September 26th, 2003 12:47:25 AM
Turn / channel energy check is 16. Which will affect undead of up to 3 HD.
(Sorry, posted this at the same time as you, Mikey. Gry's AC is 23, 25 against evil creatures.)
Trellus (ac18, spiritual weapon rd3) 3d8(7+4+6)+5=22 d20+9=21 d8+1=7 Friday September 26th, 2003 10:14:38 AM
Trellus activates a Woldian Seal - (From Kent - Seal of Haste: Everyone within 50' gets an extra attack for two rounds)
(OOC - can't tell if Jake was actually hit or not.)
Light, Gry. Now what? Trellus wonders in exasperation. But he's got no time to worry about the half-orc. He's the most indestructable dude on the battlefield. Everybody else, however.....
IF Jake got creamed - Trellus cries out, "Jake!" and quickly runs up to the bleeding fighter. (But keeping Jake between him and Rapke 5). Pulling out a wand, he taps his packmate with it. (Cure Serious Wounds - 22 hp healed)
IF Jake was missed - Trellus places a hand on Anuk, "It's OK, dude, you're shady." The cleric casts REMOVE FEAR on the ranger.
Then he casts BLESS on himself (+1 morale bonus on attack rolls for all within 50')- xtra attack
Either way, Domi's Hammer keeps pounding on Rapke #3. (Hit AC21 for 7 hp damage)
LOG ON