Rescue On The Way...Sort Of - DM Donna d20+1=9 d20=11 d20+1=17 Monday October 4th, 2004 7:09:24 AM
"G-go..." Miss Masie mutters as she revives somewhat, "...Milo Thistledown will be sacrificed to revenge if you don't leave now..."
"We're gone!" K'Nara replies, immediately heading out the door. As she exits the building, the redhead gives a sharp whistle that pricks up the ears of both her horse and the large wolf waiting without the dwelling.
"Athalorn--we're going after Milo--I think he's being taken to the Badlands of Izen." K'Nara explained as she swung up onto Poki's back. She also orders that those without horses double up with those that have mounts (Athalorn being the exception, as he has an animal form that can keep up with the horses.)
The Talons ride out of the city with urgent speed, with K'Nara asking about who the dark-haired elven-blooded individual was in Miss Masie's scrying. Dawn begins to paint the sky with pale fingers of light when the tired green granary of Miss Masie's vision comes into view.
Athalorn and Glannath's senses tell them that Milo Thistledown was here--and quite recently--but the place is now abandonned. Still, everyone gets off their mounts and pokes about to make sure there aren't any other clues.
Everyone in the party must make a Search check or a Spot check (use the better bonus of the two) to see what they might come up with. (OOC: K'Nara's humble Spot check is a mere 9...no clues for the redhead!)
"Dangnabbit!" K'Nara swore as she contemplated the remains of a fire that had still been smoldering slightly when the Talons rode up. "Anyone find anything..?" The rest of the group joins K'Nara at the barely-dead campfire as they report.
Everyone in the party must roll both a Listen and a Spot check versus DC16. (OOC: K'Nara's Listen is only 11, but she Spotted for 17.) Those who make either one will not be Surprised by the all-too-familiar voice that now addresses them:
"Why, yes, K'Nara--I have found you!"
The human bladesinger only has time to draw her sword and whirl around to face the oily grin of Mop, Parnoth's aide-de-camp and toady...and the six tall green scaly...men?...with him.
"Now all you have to do is give me the Serpent Star...or die!" Mop explains in a jovial voice.
"Well...since you put it THAT way..." K'Nara replies in an equally jovial voice and then addresses two individuals over her shoulder:
"Figment...Ingrge...you heard the man...let him have it..!"
As she speaks, she begins inching to her left...
(OOC: I'll be sending out a combat map for you in today's email. Make those rolls for clue checks, Listen and Spot checks, please! Then prepare for combat!)
Falin d20+2=21 d20+2=15 d20=6 Monday October 4th, 2004 8:59:48 AM
Falin starts looking through the campsite (spot 21)
Falin is caught off guard by the visitors (spot 15 listen 6)
Athalorn d20+19=20 d20+19=22 d20+19=26 Monday October 4th, 2004 1:49:34 PM
Athalorn is busy thinking of the forest too much to notice anything unusual around the campsite (Spot = natural 1), but his keen eyes and ears are well aware of the approaching beings (Spot = 22 Listen = 26).
As soon as he is aware of the approach, the druid transforms himself back into human form (ooc: assuming he has chance to do so before combat begins)
Olana d20+16=36 d20+17=31 d20+14=28 d20+9=21 d8+2=3 d8+2=3 Monday October 4th, 2004 2:48:52 PM
As for the vision, the elf has seen enough. She snatches back the bracelet, and is on the verge of using it, when K'Nara has everyone haring off in pursuit. "I can get him back with the brace -" "^*%$#@" <---- elven swear word
Olana has no choice but to follow - if Milo was badly injured, "IF" the bracelet brought him back, then he'd need healing, but with no healers around...
She is not in a talkative mood as the group travels. Right now both Elese AND K'Nara wear demon horns as far as she's concerned.
As they reach the campsite, she reckons everyone will slow down a bit, then she can give the bracelet of friends a try.
((Sailed through Spot and Listen))
As Mop and his cohorts thwart even that attempt, by arriving uninvited, the elf snaps, takes aim at Mop, and immediately starts firing arrows into the nasty little critter.
((Hits AC 28 and 21 for 3 and 3 DAM))
Figment d20+22=37 Monday October 4th, 2004 9:35:38 PM
The mage immediately casts "See Invisible" to make sure there's no funny business going on. He also looks for any signs of an illusion (DC 37). "Look Mop, you know you're toast if we open up on you. Why are you trying to get it? Why do you want it so badly...Hmm?".
Gunther d20+1=18 d20+1=9 d20+1=13 Monday October 4th, 2004 9:52:26 PM
The warrior carefully searches the area (Spot=18). Thinking that he might have found something, the warrior is just about to call K'nara's attention to it when he is caught completely off guard by the arrival of the less than friendly visitors (Spot=9, Listen=13). Growling savagely, Gunther reaches over his back for his two-bladed sword.
Brother Bertram d20+1=14 d20+5=8 d20+5=15 Tuesday October 5th, 2004 3:44:48 AM
Bertram discovers nothing new around the campfire. He is startled at the appearance of this new threat, and brings his axe up immediately.
Combat Round 1 - DM Donna 6d4(1+4+3+2+4+4)=18 d20+9=20 d20+9=28 d20+11=26 d20+5=17 d10+4=11 d4=4 d10+4=13 d6=1 Tuesday October 5th, 2004 1:10:43 PM
"At last!" Mop says in a gloating sort of voice, "You've decided to listen to reason! I would never have--"
At this point, Olana's arrows hit their mark, their feathered shafts blossoming from Mop's torso. The sycophant bellows, fear and anger in his next order:
"Kill them--kill them all!" the portly man screams, then paws at a ring on his left hand with his right. "And don't come back without that Serpent Star...!"
Mop disappears.
All six of the scaly humanoids do the same thing: open their mouths and breath streams of acid at the party.
Everyone must roll 2 Reflex Saves versus this acid breath attack (due to overlap, as each of these acid streams are about 5 feet wide and have a range of about 30 feet.) Make the Reflex Save vs DC17--you suffer 18hp if you don't make; 9hp if you do. Those who didn't make their Listen/Spot checks from last post cannot use their Dexterity modifiers on their Saving Throws, as they are flat-footed.
K'Nara sees the dragon-men open their mouths to breathe and uses her patented bladesinger technique to minimize the damage their acid inflicts, suffering a total of 18hps.
"Lucia!" the woman warrior yells and leaps at dragon-man 4, one of her blows striking the scaly opponent for 6hpd and 4hp fire damage.
(OOC: the dragon-men have AC25 and appear to be a bit resistant to damage.)
Gunther AC 20 HP 48/64 d20+3=23 d20+3=4 2d8(5+3)+3=11 Tuesday October 5th, 2004 3:49:51 PM
Miraculously, the large warrior expertly dodges the first stream of acid, even though he was completely of guard (Ref-Dex=23). A small amount of acid splatters on his neck and forearms... However, Gunther is not quite so lucky the second time around, and the stench of burning hair fills the air as he takes the second jet full in the chest... (Ref-Dex=4...Total damage 27). Orcish curses of the foulest variety stream through the air as Gunther writhes under the burning acid. Regaining his senses, Gunther calls out "Heilen" (activating Brahmah's tattoo). A faint glow can be seen underneath his armor, and a small amount of the damage from the acid begins to heal (11hp). Gunther then moves 10 feet forward and engages with the creature next to K'nara's victim (#6). Though he cannot attack this round, Gunther prepares for his next opportunity...
Athalorn AC 24 HP 50/77 d20+12=24 d20+12=16 Tuesday October 5th, 2004 4:35:27 PM
The druid reverts to human form in time to be hit by two streams of acid, although one stream seems to glance past him (Ref=24 and 16, damage = 27). The druid quickly clicks his boots together (Boots of Speed = Haste) then immediately begins chanting, his hand reaching for the leaf of his beloved Culverclove and gripping it tightly. His eyes focus deeply, and the sky above starts to become heavy above him. (Cast Call Lightning Storm)
ooc: Donna, just so I know for when I want to call a bolt of lightning, is the weather by any chance a rain shower, clouds and wind or hot and cloudy conditions? ~smiles sweetly at the lovely DM~
DM OOC: hey, that's some great schmoozing! However, the weather this night is merely partly cloudy--no storms in the vicinity.
Ingrge d20+6=16 d20+8=11 d20+11=17 d20+11=18 d20+11=30 d20+11=28 d20+11=27 4d6(5+4+4+2)=15 4d6(2+5+4+6)=17 4d6(1+5+3+5)=14 Tuesday October 5th, 2004 6:29:30 PM
While not seeing anything Ingrge recognizes that self serving simpering smarmy voice and turns, activating his boots of speed, to face him as Olanna's arrows find their mark in Mop's torso.
Targeting Scaly #s 4 Ingrge casts a scorching ray at the beast just as he is partially hit by two acid baths. (no save 46 points damage.)
Lian (47 hps, AC 25, AC 26 vs #6) d20+14=17 d20+11=19 Tuesday October 5th, 2004 8:26:35 PM
Stunning Attacks 1/10 used.
The monk rushes to #6 and begins his attacks.
(AC 17 and 19(stunning attack, and improved trip attempt +4) vs magic and DR(Ki Strike), missing I'm sure) (Dodging #6, AC 26)
Speaking Draconic, "Come on you big green newt! Give me all you got! Domi's Hand is upon you. Boy, you smell like Parnoth!!"
Olana (HP 69/69, AC 20) d20+21=33 d20+21=29 d20+14=34 d20+9=12 d8+2=8 Tuesday October 5th, 2004 11:27:02 PM
Completely fired up, the elf see's whats coming, her rogue's skills coming to the rescue, and she is able to leap back a recieve no damage whatsoever (Evasion).
"Haaaaaaaaa!!!!!!!" she growls, letting two more arrows fly toward Monster #3. Assuming One hits AC 34 for 8 DAM.
Glannath Tuesday October 5th, 2004 11:30:01 PM
Up above, the huge eagle begins to fold in his wings, ready to dive dive dive.
Falin (40 Hps AC 23) d20+13=17 d20+13=30 d20+3=15 d20+22=34 d20+17=23 d8+2=4 d8+2=4 Wednesday October 6th, 2004 2:42:19 AM
After getting hit with the acid Falin knocks an arrow and looks for a target.
He scans the area for drops of blood or footprints that will give away the invisible leader. (Spot 15)
Upon finding Mop he fires two arrows (AC 34 & 23. Dmg 4 & 4.
Falin (40 Hps AC 23) d20+13=17 d20+13=30 d20+3=15 d20+22=34 d20+17=23 d8+2=4 d8+2=4 Wednesday October 6th, 2004 2:42:19 AM
After getting hit with the acid Falin knocks an arrow and looks for a target.
He scans the area for drops of blood or footprints that will give away the invisible leader. (Spot 15)
Upon finding Mop he fires two arrows (AC 34 & 23. Dmg 4 & 4.
Figment: first roll 16; fails for 18hpd. second roll 22; succeeds for 9hpd. Figment suffers 27hpd.
Bertram: both rolls succeed (first roll 22; second roll 20)--Bertram suffers 18hpd.
Combat Round 2:
One of K'Nara's blows hit #4, but she saw immediately that it didn't do the physical damage it should have. However, Ingrge's Scorching Ray spell manages to heavily damage her foe...just in time to motivate dragon-man #3 to leap to his fellow's aid. #4 manages to remain conscious (thanks to his natural 20 Fort Save) in spite of Ingrge's punishing attack.
Both #3 and #4 use two claw attacks and a nasty-looking bite on K'Nara. While their claws miss the mark, the human bladesinger involuntarily screams in pain at the bites as they connect, dealing another (total) 19hpd.
K'Nara now has only 64hp out of her original 101hp. She also whirls Lucia to full flaming effect at #4...well, as effective as one of the blows can be--the other blow doesn't penetrate the thick scaly hide of her foe, but the blow that does connect seems to do better damage-wise this time around: #4 suffers another 8hpd and 6hp fire damage.
#6 attacks Gunther--the same claw/claw/bite technique used on K'Nara--but only a single claw finds its mark...however, it's a critical hit, causing Gunther another 19hpd.
Lian's blows to #6 do not seem to effect it this time around...and now he and Gunther face both #5 and #6.
#5 swipes and bites at Gunther--one claw delivers another 7hpd to the warrior.
Falin and Figment see no invisible foes. Falin doesn't shoot anything this round.
#1 leaps at Athalorn--the attacks hit AC24, AC27 and AC29; that first attack misses because it's a natural 01 on the die. Damage to Athalorn: claw: 8hp; bite: 14 = 22hpd total.
#2 attacks Bertram--hitting AC32, AC26, and AC32 for 25hpd total.
DM OOC: I'm sending out an updated combat map to show you where everyone is at this point in Combat Round 1.
Falin (Hp 40 AC 23) d20+10=28 d20+17=23 d8+2=8 Wednesday October 6th, 2004 8:20:05 AM
Falin decides he will take care of the more immediate problem. He thinks to himself, "They can't be imune to damage everywhere."
He targets #1 on Athalorn. He draws back, says a quick prayer, and fires. (OCC: I dont know how or if you do called shots online. I placed a -12 on my first roll to target the lizard mans eye and I hit AC 28 (which should hit) for 8 points of damage.)
Seeing that he hit he fires the second one in quick succession. He doesn't aim as well and misses with the second arrow.
Athalorn AC 24 HP 37/77 d20+13=31 Wednesday October 6th, 2004 1:51:37 PM
The druid is focusing on his spell and deep in concentration when he is attacked viciously. A claw rakes his chest, ripping the skin, and the creatures teeth sink into his shoulder while he is trying to cast the spell. Blood pours freely from his wounds. He recoils in shock at the attack, and is unable to keep the spell in his mind (DC 37, concentration = 31). Staggering backwards, he quickly whispers a word of prayer to the Emerald Forest, and his shape changes to that of his favoured combat form - a huge feline form with rippling muscles and stripes of black. (ooc - Wildshape, Tiger - heals for 9 hit points) His jaws slavering, he readies himself for an attack.
OOC: I'm sorry, but if, during combat, I get my stats wrong please bear with me. 3.5 is relatively new to me and fighting in a different form seems to be a minefield of stats. For instance, do I retain my AC or take on the new forms? It doesn't seem to say in either Polymorph or Alter Self descriptions. Sorry !
Lian (47 hps, AC 25, AC 26 vs #6) d20+13=24 d20+13=14 d20+10=27 2d6(3+5)+2=10 2d6(4+5)+2=11 Wednesday October 6th, 2004 3:56:03 PM
Stunning Attacks 1/10 used.
Lian takes a 5 foot step into flanking position on #6. AC 24+2, 14+2 and 27+2 (Flurry of Blows, +flank) vs magic and DR(Ki Strike)...for 10, miss and 11 damage. (Dodging #6, AC 26)
Brother Bertram d20+10=27 d10+5=8 Wednesday October 6th, 2004 4:27:58 PM
Bertram staggers as he is buffeted by the strange warrior before him. He swings quickly with the axe, trying to damage the creature enough to allow himself time to heal... The blow smashes into the creature,cutting into the creature's flesh.
Ingrge (boots of speed) d20+15=34 d20+15=27 3d6(3+5+2)+24=34 d6=2 2d10(8+4)=12 d20+9=16 d20+15=34 d20+15=31 3d6(1+1+5)+24=31 d6=3 2d10(1+8)=9 Wednesday October 6th, 2004 7:32:41 PM
Reaching back into his quiver, Ingrge activates his frost bow (free action) and then rapidly nocks and fires three arrows (third arrow due to boots of speed) into Bertram's Opponent #2 Arrow 1 - AC 34 crit threat, crit AC27 (48 points damage: 34 damage + 2 frost damage + 12 icy burst damage) Arrow 2 AC 16 Misses Arrow 3 AC 34 crit threat, crit 31 (43 points damage: 31 damage, 6 frost damage, 9 icy burst damage)
Figment d4+1=5 d4+1=4 d4+1=4 d4+1=5 d4+1=2 Wednesday October 6th, 2004 7:51:38 PM
OOC: Hey I figured I had 12 more hours before the next post so I didn't do it this morning. A little slack please... :)
Round 1: After taking the obligitory acid bath the mage casts fly and flies straight up to get a better look at the playing field.
Round 2: Seeing how their is no way to really get more than one in his line of fire the mage blasts the one on Bertram with a Magic Missle (20 DMG).
Olana (HP 69/69, AC 20) d20+14=19 d20+9=25 d8+2=5 d8+2=5 3d6(4+6+2)=12 3d6(1+3+6)=10 Wednesday October 6th, 2004 11:36:02 PM
Olana concentrates grimly on beastie # 3, who seemed to have all it's attention on hacking K'Nara to pieces.
"Pity.... for you," she mutters, taking careful aim (at around 20ft I reckon) at the distracted monster.
Arrow 1 hits AC 19 for 5 +12 Sneack attack damage.
Arrow 2 hits AC 25 for 5 +10 sneak attack damage.
OOC - Simon - do you want me to bring Glannath into active combat?
Gunther AC 20 HP 22/64 d20+14=19 d20+9=15 d20+14=31 d20+6=23 d8+8=13 Thursday October 7th, 2004 12:05:55 AM
Blood gushes from Gunther's neck and shoulder as the bulky man staggers under the combined attacks of the monsters. Truly torn between retreating and healing himself or attacking the creature, Gunther opts for the attack. If he did have to die, at least he was gonna slice into that smug little abomination a couple of times first. He wages a full attack on creature #6, but the pain from his recent wounds proves to be too much and he only manages one solid blow (AC 31 for 13hp). Turning to K'nara he manages a weak smile. "Tough little buggers, aren't dey?"
DM Donna Thursday October 7th, 2004 7:11:50 AM
This is an OOC post:
First, Athalorn's PC has asked a very good and pertinent question, so I'll be researching the answer on it...thus postponing today's DM post.
Second, Figment's player has reminded me that I haven't informed you all of how I handle posting:
I make my DM post usually between 5am and 6am Eastern time. Sometimes it can be an hour or so later, but I get it in around that time for the most part.
There are circumstances in which I will delay making my DM post--this is usually in prelude to combat, or during combat or when a single PC's choice of action, inaction or way they are RP'd in the post can have a VERY important effect on the upcoming game. In these cases, I will wait up to another six or seven hours to post.
HOWEVER, whenever I delay posts like this, I tend to post at my regular time the next day, rather than wait the usual 24 hours after the late post.
I realize now that I should have warned you all when I made the late post that I would be posting at my regular time the next day.
I'll be delaying my post for today, but I plan to post at my regular time tomorrow morning.
Combat Round 3 - DM Donna d20+9=10 d100=30 d20+9=12 d20+14=16 d20+14=16 d20+14=28 d8+8=11 d20+11=21 d20+4=21 d20+14=25 d20+14=16 d20+14=18 d6+6=8 d20+14=29 d20+14=26 d20+14=33 d6+6=8 d6+6=11 d8+8=13 d20+14=27 d20+14=20 d20+14=21 d6+6=11 Thursday October 7th, 2004 1:19:40 PM Wildshape question resolution: Athalorn now has AC20 while he's in the shape of a tiger.
On to resolving the rest of the combat:
Falin's shot sinks directly into the eye of dragon-man #1, who reels away from Athalorn a step or two. #1 is writhing in pain and cannot attack this round, as he failed a Fort Save to ignore his wound.
Bertram finds himself suddenly fumble-fingered--in spite of his best efforts, his weapon slips from his grasp. The dragon-man in front of him, however, fails his Fort Save versus the onslaught of damage he's received and drops to the ground, unconscious.
Dragon-man #3 bleeds from the arrows that Olana has peppered him with, but continues his attack on K'Nara; his clawing attacks miss, but his bite manages to sink into the human's forearm for 11hpd.
K'Nara concentrates on striking at #4; but neither of her blows land.
Dragon-man #4 attacks K'Nara, raking her with one claw for another 8hpd.
K'Nara now has 45hp out of 101hp originally.
Dragon-man #5 attacks Gunther; his claws and bite strike AC29, AC26, AC33 for 8hp, 11hp, and 13hp--a total of 32hpd. Ouch.
Dragon-man #6, however, now targets Lian: one claw hits for 11hpd.
Brother Bertram 5d8(6+1+2+5+7)+9=30 Thursday October 7th, 2004 1:45:28 PM
Bertram prays quickly over his wounds, trying to regain some of his strength after the assualt by the strange creatures. He feels the blood flow slowing and his wounds starting to close. He murmurs a quick prayer of thanks to Domi and moves back into the fray.
(Healed 30)
Athalorn (AC 20, HP 37/77, Hasted) d20+12=31 d20+12=28 d20+7=25 d8+6=8 d8+6=14 d8+6=8 Thursday October 7th, 2004 3:34:37 PM
The tiger eyes his prey in anticipation, then leaps at the creature that has attacked him with a mighty roar (#1). Hasted by his magic, and angered by the foul beast, Athalorn swipes with his deadly claws in a flurry of melee. (Hit AC31 for 8 damage, AC28 for 14 damage, AC25 for 8 damage
OOC: Jan - yes I think once Glannath saw me be injured he would attack - but It's up to you.
OOC: Donna - The rules for polymorphing are unhelpful to say the least. Can you tell me how you got to AC20 just so I know for future occasions? I'll take the conversation to email if you wish, as there is several other things I am unsure about. Eg. I have attacked using Athalorns Base attack bonus, plus the Tigers strength bonus, then used the damage from a standard tiger claw attack. Is this right?
Lian (36/47 hps, AC 25, AC 26 vs #6) d20+5=20 d20+17=22 Thursday October 7th, 2004 5:44:48 PM
Stunning Attacks 1/10 used.
Not sure what to do, watching parts of Gunther fly away from the man, the elf thinks fast. He tumbles and dives (Tumble 22) around to his friend and shouts. "BERTRAM!! HELP! WE NEED YOU AND DOMI!!" The monk leans down, fully aware of the beasts around him, and shields the large man's body with his own. (Makes untrained Healing check 20 [standard action], YEAH! To stablize the fighter.)
(OOC: Donna, I'm fully aware that this move opens up Lian to AoO, but thats okay.)
Ingrge d20+15=29 2d6(5+3)+8=16 d20+9=23 2d6(1+4)+8=13 d20+15=35 d20+15=28 4d6(6+4+4+4)+24=42 2d10(8+3)=11 Thursday October 7th, 2004 9:42:37 PM
Watching his last target fall to the ground, he turns his attention and his bow toward the beast on Gunther (#6 I believe) Quickly nocking and releasing three arrows in succession he watches them fly toward his target.
Arrow 1 hits AC 29 for 16 points damage Arrow 2 hits AC 23 for 13 points damage Arrow 3 hits AC 35 nat 20 crit threat - Crit AC 28 for 53 points damage
Gunther....He's dead Jim ;) Thursday October 7th, 2004 11:22:00 PM
Large pieces of flesh ripped from his body and blood pumping from his carotid artery, the normally solid warrior's feet crumple uselessly under him. His body collapses with considerable force landing with an audible thud on the ground. His lifeblood seeping quickly from his body, Gunther catches a quick glance of the tiger ripping into a distance foe and an almost childlike smiles forms on his lips. The darkness gathers around him, and though it is still warm outside, his body shivers. He hears the faintest of voices calling out for Domi's aid... Limp hands reach up and fumble to catch hold of Lian. Pulling the monk in, Gunther musters all of the energy left in his dying body and whispers his final wishes. "Please, make sure dat de kitty is taken care of...she is so beautiful...I only vish I could have gotten to know her better..." The flow of blood from his wounds lessens considerably, and Gunther's hands go limp and fall to his side. Though the skilled monk work feverishly, it is rapidly apparent that the strange warrior's soul has departed.
Olana (HP 69/69, AC 20) d20+14=20 d20+9=20 d8+2=10 d8+2=4 3d6(6+2+1)=9 3d6(6+1+1)=8 Thursday October 7th, 2004 11:59:10 PM
seeing Gunther fall and Lian crouched over him, Olana quickly switches her aim toward dragonella #5.
Arrow #1 Hits AC 20 for 10 DAM +9 sneak attack dam iff still applicable
Arrow #2 Hits AC 20 for 4 DAM +8 sneak attack if applicable
(Ugh - did they even hit?)
"Hey! Ugly!" she yells at #5 right after the arrows have landed, hoping to drag its attention away from Gunther and Lian.
Glannath (AC 20, HPs 45) d20+4=14 d20+4=21 d6+3=6 d6+3=8 Friday October 8th, 2004 12:14:13 AM
Glannath drops right out of the sky, coming in for a talon attack on #1 -
Raking the creature AC 14 (missed? 6 Dam), and AC 21 for 8 DAM.
The bird stays on the wing, it's shrill call in everyone's ears.
Falin d20+10=11 d20+5=11 Friday October 8th, 2004 2:23:20 AM
Seeing Gunter go down Falin draws on #5.
Hoping he can be of some use he targets the eye with the first shot, which flies harmlessly over the creatures shoulder. The second one does as well.
DM Donna Friday October 8th, 2004 6:30:04 AM
Another OOC post--Figment, are you going to join this battle or not???
I'll check in again in another 6 hours.
From Jay B~ Come on guys, we really need each other right now. Pull together. Please!
Combat Round 4 - DM Donna d20+14=14 d20+14=20 d20+14=19 d20+14=30 d20+14=19 d20+14=23 d6+6=12 d4=2 d20+6=26 d20+6=10 d20+6=19 d20+6=23 d6+3=8 d20+3=12 d20+3=7 d20+12=25 d20+11=25 d20+5=11 d10+5=12 d6=5 d20+14=17 d20+14=17 d20+14=14 d20+14=33 d20+14=23 d20+14=18 d6+6=8 d6+6=8 d20+14=29 d20+14=21 d20+14=19 d6+6=10 d20+14=15 d20+14=21 d6+6=9 Friday October 8th, 2004 3:08:13 PM
Bertram now has 60hp out of his original 73hp.
Athalorn and Glannath gang up on dragon-man #1; Athalorn manages to damage the scaly guy, but Glannath's attacks don't get close enough to score hits.
Lian tumbles over to where Gunther lies and shields him. #5 & #6 manage to claw him once for 12hpd so that Lian now has only 24hp.
Ingrge fires upon #6 for 82hpd--causing #6 to explode! Both K'Nara and Lian must make a DC20 Fort Save or be blinded by gas for 2 rounds. (K'Nara barely makes her Fort Save this time around.)
Gunther is stabilized at -10hp...if Bertram doesn't heal him in this next round, he'll be dead (so that you MUST use Resurrection-type magic rather than a wagonload of Cures.)
Olana's archery targets #5 but doesn't manage to hit the green beastie at all. Screaming her insult at him gets the dragon-man to pause and glare up at her--and allow the snarling form of a black panther to hurl itself at it, knocking #5 to the ground!
#5 has the panther's jaws locked around his throat now, and cannot get up nor engage anyone else until the panther releases him. This mangling causes 3hpd to #5.
Falin's arrows miss due to the unexpected knockdown caused by the sudden attack by the black panther.
Figment orbits the site, no doubt planning his next move.
K'Nara--seeing Gunther fall--howls in fury and slashes mercilessly into #4 for another 17hpd.
#1 is too busy trying to get the big, snarling tiger away from him for its usual claw/claw/bite routine to score any hits.
#2 is still unconscious.
#3 continues to assault K'Nara for 16hpd; #4 also gets the human bladesinger for 10hpd.
K'Nara now has only 19hp out of her original 101hp left.
#5 is flat on his back with a snarling panther's jaws clamped around its throat. It can't bite the panther, but it does manage to rake the panther's side with one of its claws.
(DM OOC: there will be another combat map for you all in today's email. Technically, everyone now has until about 5 to 6am Eastern time on Monday to respond, but I'll post again as soon as everyone who can act posts for this upcoming round.)
Ingrge d20+15=17 d20+9=12 d20+15=16 Friday October 8th, 2004 5:11:05 PM
Drwing a bead back on his original target of #4, Ingrge lets fly with three more arrows and watches in despair as they all fly wide and high of the mark.
(OOC: geeze, I knew my good rolls wouldn't last forever, but 3 misses!)
Lian (24/47 hps, AC 25, AC 26 vs #6) d20+9=25(save) d20+14=25 d20+11=30 2d6(6+3)+2=11 2d6(3+1)+2=6 Friday October 8th, 2004 11:58:45 PM
Stunning Attacks 3/10 used. (Fort save 25)
Not clear whether Bertram is going to make it in time to save Gunther, not able to help his friend further, the monk jumps toward #5 and begins pummeling it into pulp. "Get up LIZARD! Get to your feet!"
(AC 25(stunning attack) and 30(stunning attack), for 11 and 6 damage)[Stunning Attacks DC 19 Fort or be stunned for a round]
Athalorn (AC 20, HP 37/77, Hasted) d20+12=30 d20+12=26 d20+7=21 d8+6=9 d8+6=14 Saturday October 9th, 2004 4:00:42 AM
The Tiger sees his good friend collapse, bloody and torn, and flies into a rage at the beast he is attacking, hoping to tear him to the ground. He rakes with two claws, (AC30 for 9 dmg, AC26 for 14 damage) but misses with a third swipe, distracted by vengeful thoughts for Gunther.
Falin (AC 23 HP 40) d20+22=30 d20+17=33 d8+2=7 d8+2=4 Sunday October 10th, 2004 5:15:55 PM
"Wow, two on one sounds a little unfair. Let me even the playing field."
Falin targets #3 on K'Nara. He drws his bow and lets loose two arrows. They both strike their mark sticking deep into the lizard mans chest. The first does 7 points of damage and the second does 4 points of damage.
"Olana, so we are more effective I will target any one of the lizardmen that you target from now on."
Gunther the Almost Dead ;) Sunday October 10th, 2004 10:56:21 PM
Lies bleeding and unconcious on the ground.
Olana (HP 69/69, AC 20) d20+14=18 d20+9=27 d8+2=7 3d8(5+5+2)=12 Monday October 11th, 2004 1:29:54 AM
Olana nods grimly toward Falin, and then takes aim and fires at #3 wannabedragon also. If they worked together...
"Take your medicine, you fowl creature," she growls, letting fly.
The first arrow misses. The second hits AC 27 for 7 + 12 sneak attack Dam.
She keeps her eye on the battle, while trying to co-ordinate with Falin.
Brother Bertram 4d8(8+8+5+3)+9=33 Monday October 11th, 2004 8:18:36 AM
Bertram drops to his knees, looking over the fallen warriors wounds desparately. He prays to Domi and Gargul, searching for the power to save his comrade. He lays his hands upon the worst of the wounds, hoping his prayers would be answered.
OOC only thing I have is Cure Critical 33 points-Sorry Gunther)
Lian manages a mighty blow that not only damages dragon-guy #5 but actually stuns the scaly horror! (Total damage done: 17hpd) The panther continues to attempt to rip the dragon-man's throat out. (OOC: thanks to #5's being Stunned, the panther does some extra damage for a total of 15hpd this time around.)
Athalorn the Tiger's attacks do another 13hpd to #1.
Falin's arrows barely distract #3 (2hpd total).
Gunther lays there and bleeds bravely. Is he still breathing..?
Olana's own arrows find their mark on #3 as well (14hpd).
Figment continues to orbit--apparently he's being very VERY careful about which target he wishes to hit.
The Talons' resident cleric makes his appeal to the gods--and is rewarded by Gunther's eyes suddenly snapping open. Gunther now has 23hp.
K'Nara's blood flows freely from the horrible gouges in her flesh, but she manages to execute a perfect twirling strike that near cleaves #4 in two--but this triggers an explosion similar to the one exhibited before. K'Nara, #3 and the panther must all make Fort Saves vs. DC20 or be blinded for 4 rounds.
K'Nara barely makes her save; so does the panther and (unfortunately) the dragon-guy #3 does as well. (Lian is just barely out of the cloud range, so he does NOT need to save.)
K'Nara's second attack is directed at #3, but she misses due to the clinging wisps of acrid smoke that cause her to blink. Her foe, however, doesn't miss: one of his claws tags the woman warrior for 10hpd.
K'Nara now has only 9hp out of her original 101hp.
#1 continues to fight his tiger, striking the shape-changed Athalorn three times for a total of 28hpd.
#2 isn't getting up...still.
#3 attacks K'Nara (see above).
#5 is Stunned and cannot act for this round.
(DM OOC: I'm sending an updated combat map out to you players.)
Athalorn (AC 20, HP 9/77, Hasted) d20+12=32 d20+12=32 d20+7=8 d8+6=10 d8+6=10 Monday October 11th, 2004 3:25:35 PM
The druid flinches in agony at his new wounds as the beast rips into his feline flesh, the pain seering and the blood spilling freely (HP 9 of 77). He pauses fleetingly, his head telling him to stop and heal himself, but his anger at the fall of Gunther drives him on with intense fury. He roars deeply and the first two claws rake into the beasts body (AC32, Critical hit for 20 damage, AC32 also critical for 20 damage - thats good timing !) His third attack misses completely, catching a claw in the ground as he tries to pounce (natural 1)
Hoping that the creature is injured following this onslaught, Athalorn looks to one side and sees Gunther rise again. He smiles; at least his good friend was not dead.
Lian (24/47 hps, AC 25, AC 26 vs #6) d20+13=25 d20+13=21 d20+10=20 2d6(5+3)+2=10 2d6(3+3)+2=8 2d6(2+5)+2=9 Monday October 11th, 2004 4:41:22 PM
Stunning Attacks 3/10 used.
Lian wants to take full advantage of the unmoving horror, so he continues to pummel the 'prone' beast.
(Attacking prone target, hitting AC 25, 21 and 20 for 10, 8 and 9 damage)
Gunther AC 20 HP 23/64 Monday October 11th, 2004 6:35:57 PM
The warrior's wounds close and his eyes flutter open at Bertram's healing touch. A look of disbelief in his eyes, Gunther takes in the battlefield. Noting K'nara and Athalorn's dire situations, Gunther grabs his sword, rises to his feet and then moves into a flanking position with K'nara. He is careful to move around the creature so as not to provide an attack of opportunity. He moves to within 10 feet of #3 so that next round he can move in and launch a full attack.
Figment d4+1=3 d4+1=3 d4+1=3 d4+1=5 d4+1=3 Monday October 11th, 2004 7:33:37 PM
The mage casts another magic missle. This time on the one most hurt around K'Nara (17 DMG).
Ingrge d20+15=28 d20+9=13 d20+15=28 4d6(1+3+1+4)+16=25 Monday October 11th, 2004 8:32:11 PM
Taking his time to draw and fire his arrows this time Ingrge lets fly with another round of three and watches as two more strike true on beastie #3. AC 28 and AC 28 (25 points cold and arrow damage.)His middle arrow strikes the ground at the beasts feet.
Falin d20+22=23 d20+17=29 d8+2=10 Monday October 11th, 2004 9:16:30 PM
Falin looks at Olana and shouts, "I will target yours."
Targeting #3 Falin looses two arrows.
The first one misses its mark, but the second one strikes true for 10 hps of damage.
Glannath (AC 20, HPs 45) d20+4=16 d20+4=23 d6+3=5 Tuesday October 12th, 2004 12:57:45 AM
Glannath continues to harry Monster #1, clawing from above at it's hard, scaly hide.
Nearest hit AC 23 for 5 dam
Olana (HP 69/69, AC 20) d20+14=24 d20+9=29 d8+2=5 3d6(3+3+3)=9 d20+9=11 Tuesday October 12th, 2004 1:07:22 AM
Seeing their last arrows, plus Ingrge's, and then Figment's ball of fire hit #3, hopefully polishing it off, Olana reckons its time for #1 to get the point.
Her first arrow misses, the second hits - AC 29 (no crit) for 5 + 9 sneak DAM
Combat Round 6 - DM Donna d20+9=12 d20+6=22 d20+6=22 d6+3=4 d3+1=4 d3+1=3 d20+14=15 d20+14=18 d6+6=10 d6+6=7 d20+11=30 d20+11=25 d10+5=14 d6=4 d10+5=13 d20+5=13 d4=2 d20+5=20 d20+9=29 d20+14=13 d20+14=20 d20+14=16 d20+14=23 d8+8=15 Tuesday October 12th, 2004 7:30:10 AM
Athalorn the tiger's attacks (along with the well-timed assists from Glannath and Olana) do so much damage that the dragon-man he's fighting reels and goes crashing to the ground, as unconscious as #2.
Lian rains blows upon the dragon-man being mangled by the black panther--between the pair, they do 38hpd, but #5 is still alive.
Gunther readies himself to aid K'Nara in the takedown of #3...but many of his fellow Talons are of the same mind as Figment, Ingrge, and Falin pour their attacks onto the hapless scaly horror; #3 takes a total of 42hpd from the combined forces.
#5 shakes off the stunning effect of Lian's blows and rakes at the panther that has him by the throat--the feline suffers horribly from the flaying wounds. Already emaciated, she looks to be an inch from death now (OOC: the panther has only 1hp left.) Still, the big cat doesn't release the dragon-man from her suffocating grip, in spite of the scream of pain the panther shrieks. It is horribly evident that the panther will die in the next round if she is raked again.
K'Nara's next move surprises the remaining dragon-men: she whirls in place, bringing Lucia up high and then straight down in a guillotine-like move, scoring a critical hit on #5 and doing a total of 31hpd to him--and cleaving the head from his scaly shoulders. However, of course, in doing so, K'Nara, Lian, Gunther, the panther and #3 must Fort Save versus DC20 or be blinded for 2 rounds by the explosion of noxious gas that marks the foe's defeat.
The panther barely saves, as does the dragon-man fighting the human bladesinger...but K'Nara's infamous constitution fails her for once--she's blind. Her second attack misses #3 by a mile.
In spite of being unable to see, however, the redhead's graceful mastery of the bladesong keeps her from being clawed by the dragon-man...but she fails to dance away from his swift, snake-like strike and toothy bite. The dragon-man roars in triumph, eagerly swallowing the chunk of K'Nara's neck and shoulder that he's ripped from the falling fighter.
The leader of the Emerald Talons' body hits the ground and Lucia falls from her lifeless hand, flaring up briefly as though in anger before its magical flame winks out. K'Nara now has -4hp out of her original 101hp.
(DM OOC: an updated Combat Map will be emailed to the players.)
Figment d4+1=4 d4+1=3 d4+1=4 d4+1=5 d4+1=5 Tuesday October 12th, 2004 7:53:01 AM
The mage snarls as K'Nara falls to the ground. In fear of hitting his fellow Talons he once again uses his magic missle on the bestie making sure it chokes on K'Nara's flesh (21 DMG).
Athalorn (AC 20, HP 9/77, Hasted) 3d8(2+2+5)+9=18 Tuesday October 12th, 2004 11:36:55 AM
The tiger snarls as the beast crumples to the floor - decides on finishing him off later. Instead, he sees the panther in dire straits and K'Nara slumped on the ground. Where was Bertram? Hoping his friend will aid the panther, Athalorn decides he cannot leave K'Nara. Hasted, the tiger leaps to the fallen warrior and, if able to reach her, he growls a prayer to the spirit of the Forest, hoping the great wood will aid him now. (Cast Cure Serious Wounds on K'Nara, if he can, for 18 HP)
Brother Bertram 4d8(6+7+2+2)+9=26 Tuesday October 12th, 2004 4:12:27 PM
Bertram has time for only a moment of wonder at Gunther's recovery before he sees K'nara fall also. He runs to her and lays hands upon her bloody neck, blood flowing from her wounds. With his last prayers answered, Bertram calls upon Domi and Gargul with more conviction, praying for the healing of his friend, and he is again rewarded with the healing flow leaving his hands and entering his fallen friend. (Cure Crit again 26)
Gunther AC 20 HP 23/64 d20+16=21 d20+11=27 d20+16=18 d20+8=17 d8+8=11 Tuesday October 12th, 2004 4:38:08 PM
Gunther watches the events unfold around him as if in slow motion... Gunther growls as his kitty cries out in pain, and is about to dash to her side when K'nara takes out the beast. Smiling, Gunther prays that the kitty has enough sense to stay out of the fight. Then K'nara falls. Once again, Gunther is just about to rush to her aid when Bertram and Athalorn tend to her. Though he desperately wants to go and heal his kitty, Gunther knows that the dragon creatures must be dealt with first. Taking a 5 foot step, Gunther swings his odd sword in four quick rapid strikes, but only one blow manages to connect for a minimal amount of damage (AC 27 for 11hp).
Lian (24/47 hps, AC 25, AC 26 vs #5) d20+9=24 d20+13=14 d20+13=27 d20+10=20 2d6(3+6)+2=11 2d6(3+6)+2=11 Tuesday October 12th, 2004 6:52:29 PM
(Fort save 24) (6/10 stunning attacks used)
Lian continues to beat up on the prone dragon-man. [AC miss(stunning), 27 (stunning) and 20 (stunning) for miss, 11 and 11 damage. Stunning DC 19]
(NOTE: Donna, I had thought of using the leopard stats for the panther. What did you use?)
DM OOC: I used slightly-modified Leopard stats from the Monster Manual for the panther. However, Lian is going to have to post again, as there is no longer a #5 for Lian to beat up on (K'Nara beheaded him and he exploded in a cloud of noxious gas which Lian made that Fort Save against, remember?)--unless he's moved on to the unconscious #2..?
Ingrge d20+15=16 d20+9=10 d20+15=34 d20+15=29 4d6(2+6+1+6)+24=39 2d10(3+7)=10 Tuesday October 12th, 2004 9:23:48 PM
Ingrge sends three more arrows arching #3's way and winces as the first two miss. Taking more time befroe sending the third pays off as it screams toward the beast and impales it solidly. AC 34 crit threat AC29 Crit for 49 points of cold, arrow, and icy burst damage.
Lian (24/47 hps, AC 25, AC 26 vs #3) d20+14=22 d20+11=27 2d6(6+6)+2=14 Tuesday October 12th, 2004 10:30:06 PM
(4/10 stunning attacks used)
Lian moves onto #3. He jumps in and attempts a trip (touch attack, improved trip). (AC 22 trip, AC 27 stunning attack for 14 damage. Stunning DC 19.)
Olana d20+14=31 d20+9=23 d8+2=9 d8+2=5 Wednesday October 13th, 2004 1:55:23 AM
"Once they're down, get back!" yells the elf. "Don't finish them off up close! Lian! Watch yourself!"
She's attempting to judge the noxious gas range of these things, and will not fire on the unconscious #1 if she thinks she'll endanger the others.
For certain she'll wait until Glannath and Athalorn are out of the way.
If they are - hitting the prone #1 for 13 DAM
Glannath Wednesday October 13th, 2004 1:56:44 AM
The eagle rises up into the air, as the monster goes down, and seeing that Athalorn is no longer threatened from that one.
DM OOC Wednesday October 13th, 2004 6:28:42 AM
I had a horrible night last night--today's post will be very late.
Falin d20+22=40 d20+17=24 d8+2=7 Wednesday October 13th, 2004 2:09:36 PM
Falin will target whichever one is still standing. Hitting with the first arrow and doing 7 points of damage.
"We should try to not kill one inorder to get some answers."
Combat Over - DM Donna d4=3 Wednesday October 13th, 2004 5:40:13 PM
#3 is the last dragon-man standing--but between Figment's, Gunther's, Ingrge's and Lian's attacks, #3 explodes in a cloud of noxious gas, prompting another Fort Save versus DC20 for Gunther, Bertram, Athalorn, the panther and Lian or they'll be blinded for 3 rounds.
There are no more dragon-men standing--both #1 and #2 are unconscious on the ground. Athalorn and Olana see that the heavily-injured black panther is crawling towards #2 in a "pounce-and-kill" gait.
The healing magic of Athalorn and Bertram return K'Nara to the land of the living--her neck and shoulder magically heal over. The female fighter moans and her hazel eyes flicker open--K'Nara now has 40hp out of her original 101hp.
"F-Figment..?" she asks weakly. "Are you there..? Is Ingrge nearby, too...?" Her voice and pale countenance draw the males she is asking after closer to her.
"The next time you see me sneaking out of spell range and saying 'let him have it'..." she says, sitting up with a snarl and a glare at both spellcasters, "...then, for the love of the gods--let him HAVE it!!!"
The battle is over--but the group has two unconscious dragon-men that need to be dealt with, as well as other things to attend to.
The only clues to have been found before the battle began, by the way, were that there had been a group of no less than ten people who'd briefly stopped here. Some kind of device that balanced on a tripod (or on three feet) was recently set up near the still-smoldering fire.
Lian (24/47 hps) d20+9=18 Wednesday October 13th, 2004 6:06:20 PM
The familiar sound of frusteration rings from the elf. "CRAP!" He stumbles as he stands, rubbing his eyes, obviously blinded by the explosion. "Deaf, shortened and now BLIND!? Just kill me now! It would be most humane!" He thinks a moment. "Is everyone okay?" He listens for the group to sound off.
Ingrge Wednesday October 13th, 2004 6:16:42 PM
Ingrge walking over to K'nara as she gets up and goes off on he and Figment looks over at her and smiles.
"And what pray tell would you like me to let him have it with in the middle of a wooded clearing when we were all within the destructive range of some of my spells. Or perhaps you would like us to set the Forest on fire again. As I recal the last time we "Let it Loose" that is exactly what happened and then you berated us about that as well. We won't mention the fact that I currently only had one offensive spell memorized, as we have not, so to speak, been in a lot of combat situations in the past several weeks and I used it right off. Tonite and tomoorow morning I will be sure to rectify that. Finally and possibly most important, perhaps instead of jumping into the thick of things, you actually might learn how to use that bow you carry and attack from a distance, then you won't get chopped up so badly. I am tired of having to pull your bacon out of the fire, and I am sure our friend Bertram would like a break from healing someone who appears to have a death wish."
As he finishes he tosses potion vial at her feet and walks over to Gunther and hands him another. (Both Cure Serious Wounds)
Figment d6=5 d6=3 d6=5 d6=2 d6=4 d6=5 d6=3 d6=5 d6=1 d6=5 d6=4 d6=6 d6=6 d6=3 Wednesday October 13th, 2004 9:03:08 PM
The mage winks back at Ingrge and requests the others to back out of "explosion" range and blasts the 2 unconscious beings with a Cone of Cold (57 DMG). If they somehow survive he blasts them with yet another. "See K'Nara, we can do extreme damage when we have the chance and no allies are in the way. I had hoped to prevent a fight and get info from Mop. Too bad he got away yet again. I'd say we better keep moving to catch our quarry...".
He looks closely around the campfire for any more clues before they head out.
Gunther d20+7=13 2d8(8+5)+3=16 Wednesday October 13th, 2004 9:58:00 PM
Blinded by the noxious mist, Gunther rubs his eyes which now stream tears. However, despite his blindness, the large warrior beams a gleeful smile. He calls out to Athalorn. "She vas beautiful vasn't she?? By de gods how poverful she is!! Did you see de vay she ripped into does tings?!!" An almost giddy tone in his voice as he glows over the performance by his new kitty. "But she vas hurt badly. Could you bring her to me so I can heal her?"
If Athalorn is able to persuade the panther to come over to Gunther, he gently places his hands on her luxious silky coat and whispers "Heilen". Once again, there is a slight glow under his armor as healing energy flows from his body into the panthers (16 HP). In his excitement, Gunther reaches up and playfully grabs the panther by the neck and rubs his face up against hers.
Falin Thursday October 14th, 2004 2:19:44 AM
Looking over all of his comrades he glances at his bow with a forlorne look upon his face.
"My friends, I am sorry I could not do more. For some reason I was not able to hit anything during the exchange. I feel I have failed the party it a great time of need."
Falin withdraws into his cloak and into his own depression.
Lian (42/47 hps) Thursday October 14th, 2004 2:47:28 AM
The monk, still blind, sits down and channels his energy. (Wholeness of Body heals 18 points)
He stands up. "Falin, not everyone excels at there given talents all the time. I was terrible in combat when I started in this group, now I am alot better. Ask any one of the Talons, they'll confirm what I'm saying." The elf smiles to his woodland kin. "Trust me. Moping only makes it worse."
Olana Thursday October 14th, 2004 3:16:09 AM
Olana stands well back as Figment makes sure none of the other dragon men wake up and start this thing all over again. She lets out a sigh. That was a bad fight, and she's glad to see those who fell, up on their feet again.
"You did okay," she murmurs quietly to Falin, tapping him lightly on the foot with her boot. "Come. Hopefully there's a trail to find. But first..."
She steps to one side, and firmly pulls at one of the charms on her bracelet. "Milo!" she calls out.
Activating Bracelet of Friends.
The Return of Milo - DM Donna Thursday October 14th, 2004 6:32:35 AM
K'Nara glares at Ingrge and sticks her tongue out at him.
"Know-it-all...!" she mutters. Then she frowns thoughtfully--perhaps she ought to simply resign as leader? Every time K'Nara has given orders lately, it seemed that somebody else in the party tended to disregard them because they seriously questioned her judgement.
Meanwhile, Olana's activation of her magical Bracelet rewards her with the sudden appearance of Milo at her feet--bound and gagged as in the vision that Miss Masie showed the group.
(OOC: for clarification--the group is NOT in the middle of a clearing but next to an abandonned granary. The particular area the campfire site is located at is actually well away from the forest.)
Milo Thursday October 14th, 2004 9:21:35 AM
Milo lay very still as he looks up from where he lay on the ground. He appears very much as he did before, an unassuming halfling with light brown hair and deep blue eyes. However, it is the eyes that show a change more than anything else, since they hold a familiar glint, one not seen in the eyes of the halfling for quite some time. There is something else as well, it can only be described as pure outrage. However, as Milo looks up and sees Olana, his eyes immediately soften, and his entire body visibly relaxes.
Athalorn Thursday October 14th, 2004 10:45:28 AM
The tiger prowls around, badly wounded and exhausted from his exhertions. He lies down once he has his breath back, and watches, astonished, as the party first bickers then Milo appears. Nothing would surprise the druid anymore. He nods in acknowledgement of Gunthers words, then ignoring the others, approaches the panther, hoping his tiger form will not scare the creature away.
Falin d20+2=20 Thursday October 14th, 2004 12:12:12 PM
With the advent of the abandonded granery Falin looks over at it and investigates it in the hopes that it might lend some clues. He also removes a tindertwig from his pouch on the way over. (OCC: Spot check 20)
Brother Bertram d20+11=28 3d8(2+3+6)+9=20 3d8(8+2+3)+9=22 Thursday October 14th, 2004 8:36:11 PM
Bertram easily avoids the explosion and quickly moves to heal K'nara. (OOC Cure Serious-Another 20) (OOC Cure Serious-Another 22)
Olana Friday October 15th, 2004 12:24:10 AM
Olana gives Milo a warm smile and starts to untie him. There is an immense look of relief on her face. "You might have to wait a little while before you get patched up," she says, her nimble fingers tackling the bonds. We've er.... just had quite a party."
Gunther Friday October 15th, 2004 12:30:55 AM
The blind warrior sits and waits to heal/play with his new found kitty. Hearing Olana, Gunther mistakenly thinks her comment is about himself, and he smiles warmly. "Yes, I know, I vas at de party, remember?? And don't vorry...I'll be alrighty..as soon as I can see again."
Lian (42/47 hps) Friday October 15th, 2004 1:50:02 AM
Eyes still blurry, Lian rubs them. "Milo? Where'dya come from?"
Lucia Friday October 15th, 2004 3:40:00 AM * I think that maybe you should start backing off a little bit. I worry about you and I really don't like it when we have to lay on the ground and hope that you get back up. Maybe this one time I will recommend you start using your bow to soften them up before I move in for the killing blow.*
The Gang's All Here - DM Donna Friday October 15th, 2004 9:31:37 AM
K'Nara smiles as she picks up and resheathes, Lucia.
*...I'll...try taking your words of wisdom in the future...* she assures the sword. Out loud, however, she welcomes back Milo into the fold. (Milo, by the way, needs about 15hp of healing himself.)
"What happened back at the Tines Headquarters, Milo?" K'Nara asks. "Enderin there was spouting some nonsense about how you and some recruit named Lerith made off with that Serpent Star. I wanted to punch him in his face."
Milo Friday October 15th, 2004 8:13:42 PM
Ungagged, Milo snorts, "Do you mean Elese? She made off with the Serpent Star, and me ta' boot. I was on my way back to that room, and then someone hit me from behind. When I woke up, I was as you saw me a moment ago. I think she may be a dark elf... kept referring to my little beauty here," Milo nods his head toward Olana, "as pasty faced. Can you even imagine? I'll tell you what... when I catch back up with her, we'll see just how pale a drow looks without her evil schemin' black blood to give her color. She kept on about bein' a part of some crazy sect... and getting a seat on the council... or some other such craziness that I don't pretend to understand beyond the idea that she is a part of something larger than herself... good thing for her too, cuz she doesn't have the good sense to keep her big trap shut while I'm sittin' there all tied up. To be honest, I've had enough covert operations to last me a while... I really just want to cut up some bad guys now, if'n you don't mind."
Lian Saturday October 16th, 2004 1:04:35 AM
"Milo, glad your back pal." Looking almost eye to eye with the halfling, who used to be shorter than the elf. "But you must be mistaken about Elese. She's a good friend... she's no drow."
Athalorn Saturday October 16th, 2004 2:58:35 AM
Still seriously wounded from the battle, the tiger slumps to the ground near the panther. He eyes Milo with suspicion, not knowing the halfling well enough to trust him entirely.
Ingrge Saturday October 16th, 2004 12:24:45 PM
Welocming Milo back, though possibly somewhat less exuberantly than some of the others, Ingrge sees the wounded cats and walks over to Athalorn. "If you will open your mouth I will pour a cure serious wound potion into it and perhaps your example will allow me to convince our new freind to let me do the same for her.
Brother Bertram Sunday October 17th, 2004 7:50:37 PM
Bertram moves about checking the others for serious wounds.
(OOC IF your hurt I need to know how badly please)
Camping Out - DM Donna Monday October 18th, 2004 6:43:21 AM
"Well, now that you're back, Milo," K'Nara says in a cheery voice, "We'll see what we can do to give you a chance to do that cutting. Meanwhile, we'll just take the opportunity to rest up before following those thieves into Izen."
The black panther--after cautiously sniffing Gunther and then Athalorn--has withdrawn into the shadows of the nearby granary. Upon rekindling a fire in the former site, you can distinctly see the shine of her eyes. Gunther will have to use his expertise in order to aid anyone wishing to use either a potion or a Cure spell on her; she is still at only 1hp.
Brother Bertram and Athalorn (as well as anyone else with the appropriate magic) can heal up the party for their damage on this overnight stay.
Unlees anyone in the party has objections, K'Nara assigns the watches:
1st Watch: Bertram, Figment & Ingrge 2nd Watch: Lian & Gunther 3rd Watch: Athalorn & Falin 4th Watch: K'Nara & Olana (and Milo if he's up to it.)
(Each watch is about three hours and they start at sundown, of course.)
Glannath Monday October 18th, 2004 1:57:08 PM
In the aftermath of the battle, the huge eagle touches down near his companion. He's a little wary of the other cat though. At some point he'll go an find out if there's anything left of the dragon-men carcasses. He wasn't a carrion eater, but if it was to his liking...
Olana d20+12=17 d20+13=25 Monday October 18th, 2004 2:01:09 PM
Giving Milo a quick, but tight hug, the elf leaves him to get patched up and has a poke around, seeing if she can find any tracks, before taking her watch. She'll also help bind and clean wounds.
((SEARCH DC 17)) ((HEAL DC 25))
Lian (42/47 hps) d20+8=11 d20+18=24 Monday October 18th, 2004 3:25:43 PM
Lian excercises and then rests for the night, until watch.
"Milo, did you overhear anything about what they are intending to with the Serpent Star? What it'll be used for?"
(Spot 11) (Listen 24, minus partial deafness)
Falin d20+2=22 d20+2=11 Monday October 18th, 2004 6:04:50 PM
Falin will sit back for the evening. Content with the oncomming of the night and wanting to put the battle behind him.
During his watch he will sit out of the firelight in the nearby granary. Careful not to spook the panther.
(Spot Natural 20 adds up to 22) (Listen of 11)
Figment Monday October 18th, 2004 9:33:01 PM
The mage listens to Milo's explainations. "She is indeed a dark elf. I told everyone that as we parted with her in the gate. Did they say where they were going? I wonder if they have a way into the underdark? We should try to catch them before we get there as we will lose our advantage if we fail. I think that teleport would be a good idea now. We may fail to catch them if we don't catch them very soon.".
Gunther (HP23) d20+12=27 2d8(8+4)+3=15 d20+1=15 d20+1=4 Tuesday October 19th, 2004 12:46:10 AM
Never taking his eyes off the panther, Gunther watches her actions carefully..watching, waiting, judging (Handle Animal=27). He approaches her carefully, in a crouch so low that it borders on crawling. He travels with purpose, locking eyes with the feline. His body language conveys a subtle mix of resolve and patience. Moving slowly, Gunther gradually closes ranks with her, until he manages to make it by her side. Slowly reaching out his scarred hand, Gunther places it near the panther's muzzle so that she can become accustomed to his scent. Then ever so gently, he reaches out his hand and places it on her flank. As he does so, he whispers "Heilen" and healing energy flows from his body into the big cat's (15 hp healed). Haven accomplished his mission, Gunther gradually slinks back to the campfire and rejoins the others.
As he comes back, Gunther passes behind Milo and gives him a hearty slap on the back. "Yes friend, it is goot to have you back. I vish it had been a little better circumstances, but you can't have everything, eh?
Gunther allows Brother Bertram to tend his wounds after making sure that others (like Milo and Athalorn) are tended to first (if needed, he passes off the Cure Moderate Wounds potion that was given to him). Though he had fairly formidable wounds, the others were far worse off. After any healing is applied, Gunther bunks down in a position as close as possible to the granary without disturbing his new friend. When awakened for his watch, Gunther gazes out into the darkness (Spot=15, Listen=4) do his best to make sure they don't get bushwacked again.
Athalorn (9hp of 77) 3d8(5+2+1)+9=17 3d8(6+7+4)+9=26 d20+19=28 d20+19=21 Tuesday October 19th, 2004 2:37:17 AM
Athalorn watches Ingrge, and decides it is time to return to his usual form (Wildshape - Human form). He thanks his friend, and imbibes the fluid, feeling the strength returning to his body (HP = 36).
The druid smiles as he watches Gunther working with the cat, pleased when the panthers wounds are healed slightly. Gunther would make a good friend of the animal.
As the sun begins to set, Athalorn moves off from the others slightly, to find peace. He closes his eyes, thoughts lost to the deepness of his mind, and kneeling, begins to pray to the unseen powers around him. (Prepare Spells)
On his watch, Athalorn thinks it best to leave Falin alone. The archer always seemed to prepare his own company, and had a sadness in him that the druid didn't want to intrude upon. He swigs another potion that is hidden in his pouch (Cure Serious Wounds - HP 62) and then watches the darkness of the night, eyes and ears enjoying the silence (Spot = 28 Listen = 21)
Lian (42/47 hps) Tuesday October 19th, 2004 4:49:58 AM
(OOC: Sorry about the early post, but I have a late schedule at the store late Tuesday.)
During Figment's accusations of Elese, Lian shoots sharp glances about the group. He seems 'put-off' by their dislike of his friend. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Lian sits with Gunther during watch and makes idol conversation about the kitty and the recent adventures. "So, you were somewhat interested in the dragon tongue? Lets see..." The elf goes into basic nouns and stays clear of grammar and structure. All of the conversation is done in a low voice, almost a whisper. He'll let the large man also know that he'd be happy to teach him elven and sylvan alike. The monk will make a point of language difficulty and states that, "It might be hard to get the nuances of the lilting elven tongue with your accent which is quite pronounced."
Movin' Right Along - DM Donna d20+6=24 Tuesday October 19th, 2004 6:42:05 AM
Gunther's handling of the panther helps build the bond between them--for it was obvious that she had not only followed the group still, but also that she had felt the instinct to aid the people who aided her earlier. The panther remains in the shadows, but definitely close enough to help out again in the future.
Everyone is completely healed up and refreshed after a night of rest. No wandering monsters interrupted the camp and all spellcasters get to change up their spell lists if they wish.
DM OOC: I'll be emailing you my expectations about this.
K'Nara is awake and practicing her bladesinger techniques when Olana (and Milo, if he's of the mind to) join her on last watch.
"Tell me of this Elese." she asks. "Figment says she's definitely a dark elf. I'd like to try to find out why she seems to have it in for Olana."
It's a question that K'Nara asks of everyone else who's met this Elese person--who is she and what do they, personally, think of her?
Breakfast, by the way, is augmented by a freshly-killed deer, courtesy of the she-cat.
Well, okay...so a lot of the tasty entrails and interior organs are missing and the group will have to suffer through eating the venison parts of the beast, but, hey--she who hunts gets first dibs! ;)
Figment Tuesday October 19th, 2004 7:40:28 AM
The mage decides to help with the preparation of the deer seeing how they are in a hurry. "I'll have this cooked up for everyone in a jiffy - and don't worry (glancing at those who impuned his cooking skills not too long ago), there's not time to preprare it in a 'civilized' way...". He prepares it in a very basic way opting for speed over culinary delecacy.
He tells the Bladsinger all he recalls of Elese - and takes note of Lian's reaction. "So Lian, why are you put off by the groups' anger at Elese? She just attacked and murdered many of he Tines and has caused us to be accused of her treachery? Why is she important to you?". He watches his reaction VERY closely.
Athalorn Tuesday October 19th, 2004 8:56:13 AM
In the morning, the druid wakes at first light and listens to talk of this Elese. He didn't know anything about her, so doesn't involve himself in the discussion. All the time, he looks for Glannath, hoping they can spend some time together in flight later...
Milo Tuesday October 19th, 2004 9:58:47 AM
"No Lian, I've told you everything that comes to mind for the present. They weren't so careless as to spill those beans. Sure'n I'll take a watch. I'm happy to do my part. I'm liking my watchmate," Milo glances Olana's direction and stifles a grin. "I'll tell you what Figment. The only importance Elese has for me presently, is that I'd like to be the one to stick the blade between her shoulder blades." Milo draws his short sword of speed and gives it a test whirl before resheathing the weapon.
Brother Bertram Tuesday October 19th, 2004 1:57:23 PM
Bertram wakes and does his morning rituals, praying both to Domi and Gargul. He double checks everyone for wounds once again, including the animals as will let him.
Falin Tuesday October 19th, 2004 7:19:46 PM
At daybreak Falin does whatever is necissary to get the party going in the morning. Before they leave he will double check what he has on him and reinventory everything.
Ingrge Tuesday October 19th, 2004 8:57:27 PM
During watch with Figment he takes a little time d=to discuss spells and what they out to prepare to supplement each other.
(email me david)
Olana Wednesday October 20th, 2004 12:22:36 AM
"I was worried about you," whispers Olana when her and Milo have a moment together.
When the subject of Elese comes up with K'nara - "I had a feeling there was something strange about her. My kind and drow have a long established emnity. It's funny how it seemed to extend beyond the normal senses." She shrugs. "I'd have had to kill her if she'd done anything to Milo."
Glannath Wednesday October 20th, 2004 12:23:52 AM
The eagle is keen to be up in the air as morning comes.
Lian Wednesday October 20th, 2004 4:39:19 AM
Lian can't stomach the talk going on about Elese, so he takes his breakfast and walks a distance from the party. 'Total disregard for my feelings!' He thinks to himself.
OOC: Spellcasters, could you prepare a spell or two to help out a monk in combat too? ;)
More Storytelling - DM Donna Wednesday October 20th, 2004 7:40:29 AM
"What did you, personally, think of her, though, Figment..?" K'Nara presses the wizard for his opinion. She already knew about how the female had appeared to be a grey elf who was rather charismatic; the woman warrior wanted to know how the various members of the party personally felt about Elese, as well.
Olana had quite clearly stated her opinion, and Milo certainly didn't like Elese, either.
What about everyone else, though?
Gunther Wednesday October 20th, 2004 9:39:41 AM
Gunther shrugs as the topic of conversation turns toward Elise. "Vell, she vas ok, I suppose. But if de oders tink she is bad, den I vill bow to der knowledge...I didn't get to know her vell." Noting Lians sudden departure, Gunther joins him. "You know, I vas tinking about vat you said last night. I tink I vould be interested in learning Elven. I know dat it vould be hard for me to speak it, but at least I could know vat you vere saying ven you speak it." Gunther winks at Lian. Turning his eyes toward the group, Gunther sighs. "I know you liked dis Elise person, but maybe she vas deceiving us all. Or maybe she's under some kind of spell... But something's for certain. Ve need to go find her...get dis Serpent Star ting everyvon vants...den find out vether she is friend or foe."
Falin Wednesday October 20th, 2004 5:55:24 PM
"I have not had the pleasure of meeting this Elise. There have been several drow I have companioned with over the years. I have also known some drow who were the stereotypical wanting to take over the surface dwelers drow. I have no opinion one way of the other until I meet her."
Ingrge Wednesday October 20th, 2004 6:02:48 PM
I am of mixed feelings about Elese. Without her we might never have escaped Fae Skiemer alive and in basically one piece. At the same time There was something not quite trustworthy about her.
Brother Bertram Wednesday October 20th, 2004 8:25:32 PM
After Bertram has finished checking everyone's wounds, he prepares himself a quick meal, listening with half an ear to everyone talk. While he listens Bertram considers how to get some money back to the family of the lil girl that Gargul saved, as well as how to use the rest to do the most good. His mind is far away from his reputation with these Tines, as he never really felt he fit in there anyway.
Milo Wednesday October 20th, 2004 9:51:28 PM
Barely having to look up to look into Olana's eyes, Milo smiles shyly and talks quietly to the elf maiden, "I have missed being closer to you. If worse came to worse, I'd have talked Gargul's ear off until he sent me back for fear of losing his sanity." Milo's grin stretches across his face.
Turning back to the group, "Regardless of what we decide to actually do with Elese, we still have to get that magical dohickey back from her. So I suggest we carry this conversation further on the road, if'n you know what I mean."
Figment about Elese Thursday October 21st, 2004 12:07:39 AM
"She never tried to be part of the party. She played the 'victim' role very well. As she parted in the gate, she said we'd meet again soon and said something that made me think her adark elf - and I said so at the time. I do not trust her. She may or may not be evil - but she is clearly our enemy and has killed many Tines. She should be taken out - I think... But I think she is an accomplished mage. She knew too much about magic. She is more powerful than she let on.".
Lian Thursday October 21st, 2004 1:44:04 AM
The monk continues to wander with Gunther. "Okay, elven it is. When would you like to start?"
Olana Thursday October 21st, 2004 2:29:53 AM
Seeing as Elese appears to be the subject of the moment -
"Would she have tried to kill you?" Olana asks Milo quietly.
Run for the Border - DM Donna Thursday October 21st, 2004 7:10:30 AM
K'Nara frowns thoughtfully at all the dialogue she receives--and does not receive--from everyone in the group.
"Dark elf or not," the leader of the Talons says, "We must get that artifact back--too many people want it. Since it looks like we're all up to snuff, let's get going!"
The party follows the roads southwest, getting closer and closer to the boundary with Izen as they go. After another two or three days of travel, they come across some very oddly pruned trees and a dead elf. There is nothing to show how the elf died, but there are some whip marks on his back and legs. K'Nara orders a rest stop and insists on interring the remains in basic elven fashion. After a quick meal, travel resumes.
Several hours later the Talons come across more of the funnily pruned trees and bushes and yet another dead elf. (This elf looks somehow familiar to most of the older Talons, but his face is so scarred that they can't tell who he is.) This time, though, there is something else that Ingrge and Olana recognize right away:
On the elf's right wrist is a slave band, one of Parnoth's, and it is brand new.
K'Nara is positively grim when the group takes the time--once more--to give the elf the dignity of final rest.
"Back to twisting the landscape to his own design..." mutters the female fighter through clenched teeth, "...and forcing the elves of the land to do the dirty work as well..."
Athalorn Thursday October 21st, 2004 10:55:10 AM
The druid spends most of the journey in flight with Glannath, enjoying the feeling of the sun on his back and the air beneath his wings. He rests with the party at night, praying each evening and at the burials they attend to.
With Milo's return, he decides to adopt a silent approach. He still wasn't entirely sure what was happening, but he did know that the slave bracelets were bad news, and so he scouts ahead of the party from the sky each time they stop.
Milo Friday October 22nd, 2004 12:25:34 AM
Continuing to speak quietly with Olana as they travel, "She may have eventually, though I think she maybe needed me for something. I'm not sure what. She kept me bound with spells as well as ropes."
Lian Friday October 22nd, 2004 4:19:59 AM
After rising in the morning, Lian exercises and gets dressed. He is now in dark grey clothes, all matching in hue. As sparse as his gear was before, it's nearly absent now, the exception being the brown belt pouch that sticks out in contrast against the grey tones, just under his cloak. The monk also wears a leather torq with a silver holy symbol of Domi and a headband that matches the clothing.
He travel behind Bertram as they move, just watching Milo at a distance. He knows his dear halfling friend has been through alot, but he wonders why he hasn't said much to the monk.
(OOC: How long, in game time, has it been since Lian lost his hearing? What percentage has returned?)
[Kent : As much hearing as is going to return has in all likelihood returned by this point. Which would leave Lian at a 90% hearing ability.]
Olana Friday October 22nd, 2004 5:30:39 PM
Quietly overjoyed that Milo is safe and back with the group, Olana's mood is nevertheless torn and saddened by the dead elves the group keeps encountering. "Those trees don't even look nice!" she exclaims, angry at the uselessness of it all.
If no one else takes them - she'll collect the bracelets and put them in one of her pouches, Evidence.
Through the Culverwood - DM Donna d20+10=25 Monday October 25th, 2004 6:41:24 AM
Once more, K'Nara orders the Talons to continue their pursuit of the artifact-snatchers...and once more (after another day or two of pushing their way through the Culverwood) the group is interrupted by an eye-opening scene:
Trudging along the pathway are a double line of people, all chained together by the wrists. There are roughly about thirty individuals--most of them children, for only three of them are adults.
All of them are elves.
K'Nara's eyes widen in recognition (as would any of the Talons who would remember the following:)--the three adults in the chain gang are the caretakers of the orphanage at Perpaguil...that village where the party left their charges almost 2 years ago. Several of the sub-adult elves might be a few of the older children from that particular time.
One of the adult elves sees the Talons and instinctively holds her hands out.
"Please...please help us..." she begs. A large, overly-familiar green scaly humanoid cracks a whip across her back.
"Silence, chattel of Parnoth!" he hisses. "No talking!" The elves cower while the green slavemaster and the five armed humanoids (most of them are human or half-orc) glare at the party.
OOC: Both the slave train drivers and the Talons are flat-footed at this moment. I don't have a map available but you MUST be careful about what spells you use because you all are now QUITE deep in the Culverwood, as well as those slave drivers are quite close to their slaves, so area-effect spells WILL force Saving Throws for the chained-up elves.
However, the dragon-guy slavemaster and slave drivers 1 and 2 are the closest to the party (you're about 30 feet away from the front of the slave train.)
Athalorn Monday October 25th, 2004 11:39:30 AM
The druid is in eagle form as per usual - ahead of the group. He flies to a branch near the slave drivers. As soon as he sees the hostile reaction and his friends flat footed, he begins screeching, and raises his wings in anger (Cast - Call Lightning Storm)
Lian (AC 25 flat-footed) Monday October 25th, 2004 4:43:06 PM
The monk looks at the slaves, then at Figment and Ingrge, with fire in his eyes. "Some of those enhancement spells, if you would gentlemen!?" The elf looks eager to jump into the fray, however, without patience, bad stuff will happen. He looks at the spellcaster with intensity. "Rip into them guys." He says just under his voice. The hairs stand up on Lians neck as the crackle of eletricity rips through the tree tops.
OOC: It is obvious to the group, that Lian has taken into consideration what K'Nara has said in the past. He will not enter combat until the burrage of fire and enhancement spells are cast. Of course, he being a novice doesn't realize the proximity of the slaves is a bad thing.
Glannath Monday October 25th, 2004 5:24:49 PM
The big eagle has enjoyed soaring over the land with his companion. There was prey to be had, and the sense of freedom up in the skies.
Alas, trouble always came from down below, and as Athalorn heads toward the source, Glannath follows, matching his companion's aggressive posture.
Olana d20+16=35 Monday October 25th, 2004 5:29:28 PM
Olana immediately moves off to the left into the trees, reaching for her bow. Right now she's looking for a good attack spot. Slightly higher ground, or low tree bough, preferably.
((SPOT dc 35))
Ingrge Monday October 25th, 2004 5:39:39 PM
seeing the sights and then hearing Lian, Ingrge speaks quickly to Lian. I have time for one. Would you like more agility (cat's grace), More strength (bull's strength), stone like skin (stoneskin) or more speed (haste). At his response he reads from the appropriate scroll.
Falin d20+12=28 d20+7=10 d8+2=3 d8+2=5 Monday October 25th, 2004 6:35:50 PM
"You will die today!" Cries Falin, "This is for my sisters!"
Falin draws his bow and says a prayer to Jancasis for speedy revenge against the slavers.
He fires two called shots to the throat of the lizardman. (OCC: I took a -10 penalty and hit AC 28 and 10. Fist roll did a measly 3 points of damage and the second if it hit does 5 points of damage)
Lucia Monday October 25th, 2004 6:48:18 PM Light my fire K'Nara
Figment Monday October 25th, 2004 7:33:29 PM
The mage casts Stoneskin on K'Nara as Ingrge is helping Lian. "I think Parnoth is not going to like us any more. And that's just fine by me...". The mage prepares to cast yet again.
Milo d20+16=17 Monday October 25th, 2004 8:41:36 PM
Short sword in hand, Milo charges straight in at the slavemaster, jabbing for the sweet spot in the creature's back. Fate seems to conspire against the halfling as his blade swings away wildly. (OOC: Rolled a natural 1... ugh!)
Gunther (AC 20, HP 64/64) Tuesday October 26th, 2004 12:06:50 AM
The sight of the slaves enrages Gunther, but he has learned his lesson from his very recent close call with Gargul. Deciding on a slight change of tactics, Gunther removes his newly acquired Great Axe from his belt and then pulls a Shield of Faith potion from his backpack and downs it.
Combat Round 1 - DM Donna (K'Nara: AC23, HP 101/101; Stoneskin) d20-1=1 6d4(3+4+2+4+3+3)=19 Tuesday October 26th, 2004 6:46:44 AM
K'Nara draws her sword from its scabbard on her back.
"Lucia!" she snarls, and the infamous blade is suddenly afire. She follows Milo in that she rushes the lizardly slavemaster. She will close with him in the next round. (OOC: I will need to know the capacity of Figment's Stoneskin spell.)
The dragon-man--startled and then exceedingly annoyed that a stupid shrimpy halfling* should dare to attack him--chooses to attempt to breathe his acid directly at Milo, rather than trying to get as many of the Talons as possible (OOC: dragon-fella got a 1 on his Wisdom check, heh heh.) Milo must make a Reflex save vs. DC17 or suffer 19hp of acid damage. Since there is only one dragon-man spitting the acid, there is no "overlap" so saving means Milo suffers NO damage. Falin's arrows strike, but are knocked off the skin since they didn't bite too deeply.
Meanwhile, the other slavers are beginning to realize that the Talons are a bit "sensitive" to reality, and are breaking out bows and crossbows. The elves gasp and or moan in horror/hope/resignation and crouch down, cowering and cringing away from the slavers--well, as much as they can, seeing as how they're all chained together.
*This is most certainly the viewpoint of a bigoted Large dragon-man person and NOT the opinion of the DM!
Figment d4+1=2 d4+1=4 d4+1=3 d4+1=5 d4+1=2 Tuesday October 26th, 2004 8:00:31 AM
The mage blasts the guy with the acid breath with a magic missle to soften him up before he gets nailed by the bladesinger (16 DMG) - frustrated at not being able to break out the big guns with the proximity of the elves.
Athalorn 5d6(1+4+2+4+4)=15 Tuesday October 26th, 2004 10:25:53 AM
Feeling the magic course through his body, the druid releases a bolt of lightning down upon the Lizardman that breaths acid on Milo (Dmg = 15), and continues focusing on his spell.
Lian (AC 25) Tuesday October 26th, 2004 6:25:11 PM
"Stoneskin." States Lian to Ingrge. He waits for the spell to be cast before he follows the few into combat. "Haste is nice too." He smiles and allows the mage to make to choice for him.
(OOC: Question concerning the chain that is hooking the slaves together. Is it a single chain that passes through loops on wrists/ankles/etc? Or are they chained together some other way? Is there a single lock? Or several locks?)
Milo d20+17=31 d20+16=19 d20+16=33 d20+16=21 d20+11=29 d4+2=5 d4+2=3 d4+2=5 Tuesday October 26th, 2004 11:43:23 PM
Milo easily dodges the blast of acid, and his short sword becomes a blur, as he steps around the slavemaster to put himself in a flanking position opposite K'nara. Milo scoffs at the slavemaster, "Keep your eye on the sword, scaly."
(OOC: Made Reflex save DC 31. Hit ACs 19, 33, and 29 for 5, 3, and 5 hit points damage respectively. The 3rd roll of d20+16 was due to an itchy trigger finger, and should be removed.)
Olana d20+14=24 d20+9=11 d8+2=7 Wednesday October 27th, 2004 12:13:02 AM
Seeing some of the others target El Lizardo, Olana decides to cause some mayhem and pain amongst the other slavers.
Aiming and firing at Slaver #1.
((Hit AC 24 for 7 Dam. Missed second arrow on AC 11 presumably))
Gunther (AC 24, HP 64/64) d20+15=25 d12+5=16 d6=5 Wednesday October 27th, 2004 12:21:54 AM
Since it seems that the combined attack by K'nara, Athalorn, Milo, and Figment on the lizard man should prove ample, Gunther turns his attention on Slaver #1. Charging the man, Gunther waves his new toy in his general direction. (AC25 for 21).
Brother Bertram Wednesday October 27th, 2004 4:27:01 AM
Bertram charges the slavers, filled with rage at this abuse of children.
DM Donna Wednesday October 27th, 2004 9:27:15 AM
aaaack! Real Life threatens the DM...I will be posting late. Those who haven't tried making the slavers see the errors of their ways have a few extra hours to get in a reaction.
Lian Wednesday October 27th, 2004 4:29:07 PM
The monk waits for Ingrge to cast his spell. The elf is itching for a fight.
Ingrge Wednesday October 27th, 2004 5:57:46 PM
Making sure that he is out of any immediate harm's way, Ingrge starts reading from the scroll, and casts Stoneskin on Lian. As he finishes he murmurs that if he gets a free moment he will add haste.
Lian (AC 31 +Dodge) Stoneskin Thursday October 28th, 2004 12:32:08 AM
Lian thanks Ingrge and rushes(move action) to the nearest target (Dodge Feat active on said target-nonlizardboy), moves into flanking position with a friend.
He goes defensive when arriving infront of his target (standard action, total defensive action).
Combat Round 2 -- DM Donna d20+11=31 d20+5=24 d10+5=11 d6=2 d10+5=9 d6=3 d20+9=19 d20+4=11 d20=3 d20=13 d20=14 d20=7 Thursday October 28th, 2004 7:11:17 AM
(OOC: pardon the tardiness--couldn't access the board after I posted my OOC yesterday.)
K'Nara dances around the dragon-man and Milo, allowing the halfling to get his blows in (as well as the Lightning and the Magic Missiles to also help damage the Large green guy) before following up the rogue's attacks with her own well-placed blows. Due to the massive amount of damage he receives, the dragon-man keels over onto the ground. (OOC: failed his Fort Save to avoid getting knocked out.)
Gunther & Olana both strike Slaver #1, and the damage they cause to him also makes the half-orc fall to the ground, unconscious.
The remaining four slavers, who have their bows out and are sighting targets, suddenly seem to realize that the Talons have caused not only their green leader but also the second-strongest-guy in the group to drop like stones...
...so they bravely flee, breaking in different directions into the Culverwood after dropping their weapons. (OOC: LOL--none of the slavers made a basic Morale check.)
A wild feline screech and a cut-off scream from within the forest tells Gunther that one of the slavers has met with that she-panther who is still tailing the Talons. Her follow-up yowl of triumph confirms that there is one less slaver in The Wold today.
The female elf who'd implored the Talons to help begins to weep, wailing at the top of her lungs. The other adults with her are weak with relief (and a bit of their ill treatment as well)--but, seeing that two of their ex-masters are helpless on the ground--snatch at the bodies. One male grabs the sword the half-orc slaver still had sheathed, while the other simply grabs a big rock. Each of them immediately stab or blugeon the slaver they are closest to, killing them (and causing an explosion of noxious gas that makes everyone in the vicinity cough and gag.)
"Thank the gods you came when you did!" the female elf says. The ex-caretakers tell a horrifying tale: a few weeks ago, a troup of soldiers--accompanied by several of the dragon-men--descended upon Perpaguil before dawn. All the residents were rounded up and told that, by Parnoth's Royal Decree, those of elven blood were declared to be criminals unless they could prove that they were the property of a non-elf. Since nobody in Perpaguil was a slave, that made the elven-blooded residents criminals in the eyes of Emerald Kingdom law, and, hence, automatically the chattel of Parnoth himself. The handful of humans in the village objected, but were promptly slaughtered and eaten by the dragon-folk in front of the entire village.
"We were chained together and driven south," the female elf explains, "To a...'training camp', it was called. Many other elves were there--we were being forced to hack up the trees into shapes resembling animals or unnatural geometric designs--" She shudders in horror. One of the other adults goes on:
"We were separated from the rest of the village--I think Parnoth had ordered that the youngest ones were to undergo some kind of--concentrated training. What that meant, I don't precisely know...but we three were brought in order to look after the children."
"Can we g'home now..?" a little boy elf--looking to be the human equivalent of about four or five years old--asks. "Mama promised me I'd have spicecakes for my birfday...an' that's only...um..." He holds up four fingers. "...this many days away." K'Nara looks at the male elf who'd finished telling of Perpaguil's fate. He shakes his head at the human bladesinger, indicating that the boy's mother would never be able to keep that promise now.
"We'll...have to see if we can, son." K'Nara says, almost choking on the words. Turning to her group, she adds: "We must continue to go after that artifact--we cannot let it remain at large or, even worse, fall back into Parnoth's hands..." Then she looked over the elves assembled. "...But neither can we, in good conscience, let you wander unescorted--those other vermin ran off into the forest..."
Athalorn and Olana must make a check versus DC13--any Survival or Forest-related skills can be added to the roll. Making the roll will mean that the druid and/or ranger's innate connection to the Culverwood tells them that the fleeing mercenaries are already well on their way to meeting their fates within the forest--none of them has the Forest Walking feat, and so will eventually die or be killed.
Figment Thursday October 28th, 2004 7:35:14 AM
The mage snarls "Looks like Parnoth is breaking the spirit of the law but keeping the letter. I for one am perfectly fine interpreting that as him breaking it. Let's catch these crooks, get the artificat, break open the camp, and figure out how to use the artifcat to bring him down. We are still not neraly powerful enough to take him on. K'Nara, you also need to tell your master of his treachery so he can tell Valdor. Maybe they will see fit to come take him out?".
Athalorn d20+19=26 Thursday October 28th, 2004 9:43:08 AM
The druid jumps from his lofty perch, and lands back in human form near the elves. He doesn't think he recognises them, despite his connections to Perpaguil. The Talons note the druid has tears in his eyes, but he doesn't try to hide it. "All the humans of Perpaguil were slaughtered? My mother...." his voice catches in his throat, "My mother, Isobel, she lives in your village. Know you of her fate? Tell me she wasn't slaughtered by these foul beasts. Please..." He holds the elf's arms as he speaks, tears threatening to run down his face.
He is aware that the beasts will not survive in the forest, (Surival = 26) but is too preoccupied to tell the others.
OOC: Does Athalorn know any of the elves? Or do they recognise him? I think you have my character history, but I can re-send if neccessary...
Gunther d20+12=23 Thursday October 28th, 2004 12:14:08 PM
The large warrior beams with pride at the panther's cry of victory. She was so beautiful...
He face falls as he hears the tale of the elves... Though he was taken in by the orcs that originally enslaved him, Gunther still remembers the bitter taste of slavery. Gunther approaches the little elven boy. "And how old vill you be on your birthday, little von?" Though his heart aches, Gunther forces a smile for the boy. His scar covered arms point into the forest as he leans in and whispers to the tike. "Vould you like to go see de black kitty? If you're very good, maybe she vill let you pet her..." If the boy agrees, Gunther leads him toward the panther (Handle Animal=23) to take a looksy and maybe a quick little pet... When/if they return, Gunther reaches into his backpack and pulls out 5 gold coins. "I don't tink I vill be here for your birthday. But I don't vant to forget it. Here..take des...den you can have as much sveets as you vant."
Gunther goes over and puts an arm on Athalorn's shoulder as he awaits the news of his mother's fate. Leaning in, Gunther whispers in Athalorn's ear. "Ven I vas vith de orcs, dey taught me many tings...dere are vays to inflict large amounts of pain vithout killing somevon... First ve take care of dis Parnoth..den ve find de vons vith your mother..."
Brother Bertram Thursday October 28th, 2004 3:17:13 PM
Bertram moves amongst the elves, releasing any still remaining in bonds. He heals all that he comes across, starting with the children. His spirits are grim as he contemplates the village and the fate of those left, But he keeps a broad smile on his face as he tends the children. (OOC Not sure how many injuries there are but will tend the entire slave party until I am out of spells or they are healed. Also if any spells are left will move to our party)
Falin Thursday October 28th, 2004 6:52:36 PM
Falin will approach the female elf.
"Mam, I am sorry for what has happened to you. Parnoth and those involved will perrish for what he has done to the elven peoples. I know it is not much, but if it will help here take this."
Falin reaches into his pouch and pulls out 500 gp and hands them over to the female elf.
"This will do more good with you than with me."
Sorrowfully he looks at all of the children and shakes his head. He walks away with his head down. A barely audible sob can be heard comming from him.
Lian (Stoneskin, X? minutes) Thursday October 28th, 2004 7:25:24 PM
Lian takes a parting shot at one of the fleeing slavers, knowing they'll just continue to do Parnoth's bidding, provided the Big Green doesn't kill them for their failure here.
After gathering with the newly freed elves and the Talons, he listen to the story of the village and murder of all the humans. Athalorn's mother? Oh no! This is terrible. He thinks. The elf's head drops and he gazes in horror at the thought of his parents and the monk in the enclave being killed or enslaved. Father would NOT go peacefully, neither would Kilfrow or Niunon.
"What of the people of Glademoor, on the northern outskirts of Culver? Near the monastery?" Asks the concerned elf. "It's a small village, maybe 400 people when I left. Mostly elves and mixed folk."
(OOC: Kent, how long will the Stoneskin last?)
Milo Thursday October 28th, 2004 10:22:55 PM
After sheathing his blade, Milo moves quickly among the children, handing out bits of dried fruit and nuts for them to eat. He does this until he runs out of the tasty treats he keeps for just such an occasion.
Olana d20+14=32 Friday October 29th, 2004 1:33:26 AM
If possible, Olana will precede Bertram, binding wounds and cleaning injuries, making his spells more effective.
She is sympathetic but firm with the children.
"Don't cry. You must let the forest look after you now. Learn her secrets, let her hide you, feed you, and help you claim vengeance. Those men who ran away - they will not live (Survival check DC 23), but you will, and you will grow strong. Like me." She smiles. "You will survive."
Overhearing Athalorn's question about his family, she gives a sigh. This was getting 'better' all the time.
She stands and moves away, letting Milo do his magic. What was happening to Athalorn, and to Falin, happened to her a long, long time ago, and it brings forth things she would rather not remember.
Moving On - DM Donna Friday October 29th, 2004 12:45:41 PM
K'Nara nods at Figment, not wishing to bandy about publicly that she can get in touch with Greymalkin of the Gold Dragons.
The female elf gasps when Athalorn asks of his mother, frowning and then looking to one of the other male elves who'd been with her.
"Isobel, was she not?" the female asks, and the male she looked to--after squinting at Athalorn--nods. "Ah, Isobel--Alemi's mercy be praised...she went with Widow Marina when the Widow had to visit some kinfolk...a wedding or the like, I believe. Marina's paternal tribe lives quite near where Jura protects the Culverwood, and Isobel couldn't resist the opportunity to go there." All three of the Perpaguil adults look relieved.
Gunther makes a friend of little Sturan Whistleweed, who is going to be seven years old in but four days. Stu is quite taken with the black panther, who allows the child to pet her before melting back into the shadows of the Culverwood.
Bertram's and Falin's generosity earns them hugs.
"This will help to found New Perpaguil," the female says as she shows the purse to the other adults with her, "We will be located much deeper into the Culverwood...but we hear you are at The Tower now--we will let you know where we end up by sending word there."
"Glademoor was fine last we heard," one of the male elves answers Lian, "...but that doesn't mean that the village hasn't been victim of the same kind of raid we suffered after Parnoth led us away in chains."
Milo is popular amongst the children, but Olana is listened to with wide eyes and rapt attention as well.
"Oh?" K'Nara's mien seems to perk up a bit when the ranger speaks of how the Culverwood will ultimately deal with the miscreants. "Hmmm..." The bladebearer looks around, spotting the abandoned bows and several arrows lying on the ground.
"What if we gave you these bows and some arrows..?" the leader of the Talons asks the adult elves. The male elves nod, assuring K'Nara that--between the arrows on the ground, the quiver of arrows she gives them, and their own ability to fashion more arrows if need be, the adults (and a handful of the older children) will be able to use the weapons to ensure their safe passage to New Perpaguil.
One of the male adults also divest the half-orc of his sword and another quiver of arrows, as well as the backpack the mercenary sported.
"Go after whatever artifact it is that you speak of, K'Nara," says the female elf, "Foil Parnoth however you can! We will go and settle, and live to speak of this day to all who would hear."
The elves thank everyone and wish the Talons well on their quest, and then disappear into the Culverwood, which welcomes its children home.
"Come on!" K'Nara orders suddenly. "We have to get our butts to Izen at once!"
Lian (Stoneskin) Friday October 29th, 2004 5:35:25 PM
Lian is worried about his friends and family in Glademoor, but the worry fades when he recognizes the true mission isn't his memories, it's the Big Green lizard that has broke the law. "I'm in." The monk raises his hood and follows K'Nara.
Milo Friday October 29th, 2004 7:48:26 PM
As the Talons move out once more, Milo, feeling more and more like his old self, takes point, hoping that his sharp senses will keep them from being easy prey to ambush.
Figment Friday October 29th, 2004 9:15:26 PM
The mage gets back on Jux and makes his way with the others, wishing the elves good luck - and also wishing they had the power to eliminate Parnoth altogether. "You know, Mop will have already told him of our attack on his party. That plus this episode will earn us his focus - and I don't think we are prepared for that. I hope we can survive. Maybe that artificat is OUR salvation and not necessarily just the Tines?".
Athalorn d20+19=36 d20+19=32 Saturday October 30th, 2004 5:24:10 AM
The druid nods in gratitude to the female elf. "Then she has been spared for now. Thankyou. But the villagers of Perpaguil were friends of me and my father. They will be avenged." With a dogged look of determination, and jaw fixed, the druid leaps in the air and doesn't land - he takes to the sky as an Eagle to join Glannath without so much as a word to the others. He scouts for the party again from the sky as they travel. (Spot 36 Listen 32)
Following the Trail - DM Donna Saturday October 30th, 2004 8:02:07 AM
"At this point, Figment," K'Nara says to the mage as the party resumes its pursuit of Elese and her gang of thieves, "I have no plans whatsoever of handing the Serpent Star back to Endrin--he's a fool and an ineffective guard for it. First of all, he couldn't even mobilize his own people to get the Star himself, then he couldn't keep it after we presented it to him!" The redhead snorts derisively, but then adds a bit grudgingly:
"Although I have to admit having to defend the Star from attacks by three different groups--one of them aided by a traitor from within--was nigh unlikely...but it was a possibility that he should have anticipated, given how much he seemed to know about how powerful the artifact is." K'Nara shakes her head in disgust. "Besides...we're no longer considered Tines ourselves--once we get the Star back, we aren't beholden to return it to Tine Headquarters again."
Over the next few days, between the eagle eyes of Glannath & Athalorn, Milo's work on point and Olana's tracking skills, the Talons push on through the Culverwood, southward for the most part but then following the south-easterly course of the Lygn River, which definitely will cross through to Izen if they continue to follow it.
Gunther must make a Wisdom check (he can add his Animal Handling skill to it) versus DC20 in order to deduce that the black panther (yes, she's still shadowing the party) is unusually preoccupied about something. If Gunther makes his roll, I'll email the details to his player.
Ingrge Saturday October 30th, 2004 11:52:33 AM
Irritatated by the audacity of Parnoth and their own gullability, Ingrge wanders off by himself for a moment and returns as K'nara sends the former prisoners on their way by themselves.
Walking up alongside K'nara so they won't be easily overheard Ingrge adrresses the fiery redhead.
"K'nara, are you sure this is wise. They are ill treated, and not in the best of shape. They do not stand a chance if more of theses beasts are around. Not to mention that we just let three run off to find reinforcements. What if they come back? I thought we appointed ourselves the position as the protectors of the people of the Emerald Kingdom? How is this protecting them? give them some bows and arrows?"
Figment Saturday October 30th, 2004 1:53:16 PM
The mage listens to K'Nara. "I was not suggesting we give it back. I agree with you. We should analyze it ourselves.". The frustration builds as they continue to travel but do not catch the group. He refuels on spells and talks to Milo a bit more. "So how exactly did you get back here? Did she send you back? Are you being tracked?".
Brother Bertram Sunday October 31st, 2004 2:29:29 PM
Bertram approaches just as Ingrge accosts K'nara with his worries about the elves. Quietly Bertram says to K'nara and the others, My Friends this is one thing I will help in. They are not going alone, It is my wish to accompany them. You have enough warriors equal to this task, and the druid has some healing powers I have seen. These elves need me more than you ever will so it is my intent to go with them and insure thier safety.
Athalorn Sunday October 31st, 2004 3:24:30 PM
(ooc: I'm not quite sure if we are still with the elves or several days down the course of the Lygn, as in Donna's post above. If we are still at the location of the slave children, then please include this post before we travel. If not, please disregard)
In human form when the party are discussing the villagers, and before the druid has taken to the skies, he interrupts Bertram. "My friend. If any of us should accompany these villagers, it is me. They come from my mothers village, and no one, save perhaps Olana, knows the forest like I do. The party will need your healing skills, for mine are limited. And Glannath can accompany you, then return to tell me where you are." He pauses. "I may find news of my family, should I go."
Gunther d20+13=16 Monday November 1st, 2004 12:18:31 AM
The warrior travels along with the party, though his attention is primarily directed toward the panther. Even though he is preoccupied with her, Gunther fails to notice (Wis+Handle=16) anything unusual about her behavior (bummer!!!).
As they travel toward Izen, Gunther begins to look more tense, though the area is vaguely familiar to him...
Olana d20+17=35 d20+14=17 Monday November 1st, 2004 5:01:50 PM
Olana is torn between helping the elves on their way and continuing also. But she does understand the importance of getting that artifact back.
While doing her tracking thing, she happens to overhear Figment talking to Milo. The beginnings of a lively conversation, no doubt.
((Listen DC35, Survival DC 17 - ugh, we'll be going the wrong way at this rate))
Lian Monday November 1st, 2004 6:37:38 PM
Riding along behind the group, he watches Milo, but doesn't make it too obvious.
He talks with Merlot as he rides and notices the old horse is actually moving slower in his old age. In elven, "Your getting past your prime friend. Well, what are you, 25, 26? Well, this will be your last journey. I promise. No more tromping around, running for your life or hunting dragons." The elf pats his friend and looks a bit worried.
Falin Monday November 1st, 2004 6:45:00 PM
"I feel that they will be fine, the refugees that is." says Falin.
"The forest will protect them. The forest knows what to do."
Milo Monday November 1st, 2004 7:33:23 PM
Happy to be on the way, Milo is encouraged when Figment shows some interest about his return, "Weeellll... I believe the power of the bracelet of friends that I gave Olana brought me back. It is a wondrous item that I picked up some time ago, and thought that it was a fitting gift for someone who I care for a great deal, and who cares a great deal for me." Milo's smile threatens to break his diminutive face in half. In a more conspiratorial tone, "Olana is my chosen, that is a halfling way of saying, that some day I hope our relationship moves far beyond friendship. Heck, if the opportunity presented itself, I would be changed to an elf, to help move things along." Laying one finger beside his nose, Milo winks, "Our little secret."
Backwards and Forwards - DM Donna Monday November 1st, 2004 7:43:56 PM
Ingrge's words hold much wisdom, K'Nara concedes, and allows for Athalorn, Olana and Gunther to accompany the group to their ultimate destination. Fortunately for the Talons, however, the trio return to the party a little over 24 hours later--they met up with a hunting party for a tribe of wood elves who were happy and honored to free the three Talons of their task that the all-important artifact be tracked.
For all that the entire group is together again, the Talons get the feeling that something isn't quite right. The eagle eyes of Athalorn and Glannath--as well as Milo's excellent pointwork--seem to prove that the occasional feeling of unfriendly eyes upon them are naught but paranoia run rampant.
"We will enter Izen on the morrow," K'Nara says just as the party halts for the night, "We will need to prepare--"
Everyone must roll a Spot or Listen check (you may use whichever bonus is highest for your PC) versus DC20. I'll post at my usual 6am or so Eastern time to let you know what happens should you fail or succeed.
Figment d20+9=24 Monday November 1st, 2004 8:23:46 PM
The mage looks around for the source of the uneasy feelings. He scan carefully trying to see/feel if they are being scried upon.
Lian d20+18=21 d20+8=21 Monday November 1st, 2004 8:31:50 PM
(Listen 21, Spot 21)
Lian feels the 'eyes' peering. He remains silent this day.
Ingrge d20+8=23 Monday November 1st, 2004 9:24:47 PM
spot check 23 Looking around Ingrge is sure that something isn't quite right and after a moment or two of concentration, he is sure that he has located a source of interest and takes out an old scarf and wraps it around his head. (grin)
Olana d20+17=22 d20+16=21 Tuesday November 2nd, 2004 12:11:35 AM
A little distracted with all the elf business, Olana's senses aren't at their normal peak.
Listen DC 22 Spot DC 21
Gunther d20+1=3 Tuesday November 2nd, 2004 12:24:04 AM
Settling in for the night, Gunther is too pre-occupied with the night time activities of setting up camp to notice anything unusual (Spot=3). He sets about trying to hunt down something for dinner, but makes absolutely certain not to wander to far from the others, lest he tempt Culverwood's wrath.
Athalorn d20+19=34 Tuesday November 2nd, 2004 3:28:36 AM
At sunset, Athalorn in human form wanders into his beloved forest to pray to her power (memorise spells as per list). He is in no danger of getting lost, but can sense a presence nonetheless. When he returns to the camp, the uneasy feeling grows and he can see something in the forest that doesn't seem right. (Spot = 34)
Falin d20+2=18 Tuesday November 2nd, 2004 6:05:08 AM
Falin keeps a watchful eye on the forest.
(Spot 18)
Combat Round 1 - DM Donna d20+1=10 d20+16=22 d20+11=24 d20+6=12 d20+11=14 d20+6=13 d6+4=5 d20+11=29 d20+6=11 d20+11=29 d20+6=21 d6+4=9 d6+4=6 d6+4=6 d20+11=25 d20+6=25 d20+11=27 d20+6=12 d6+4=7 d6+4=9 d6+4=6 Tuesday November 2nd, 2004 9:16:38 AM
K'Nara speaks in an authoritative manner, having been forced into the territory of Izen before, and she is so keen upon telling the others of what she knows (and Falin & Gunther so intent upon hearing her), that they are the only ones who miss the subtle but important tip-off:
Someone is in the woods, casting a spell.
(OOC: I rolled for Milo--his Listen bonus netted him a 22 total for the check, so he spotted the spellcaster.)
Suddenly there are flickers of randomly-colored light in several spots all around the party--and a volley of arrows streams from many of the spots those lights inhabit.
Unseen Attackers 1 & 2 fire at Ingrge: only one of the four missiles hit for 5hpd.
Unseen Attackers 3 & 4 fire at Olana: three out of four arrows strike true--the ivory-tressed elf suffers 21hpd.
Unseen Attackers 5 & 6 fire upon Lian: three arrows hit the monk for a total of 22hpd.
"No, no, you loveless fools!" the attacker from location X curses the ambushers. "Kill the elves later--get the mage NOW!!!"
Gunther (AC20, HP 64/64) d20+3=10 d20+15=32 d12+7=8 Tuesday November 2nd, 2004 10:56:45 AM
Arrows and threats fly...the large warrior is caught completely off guard. Unable to determine the location of person shouting the orders (Listen=10), Gunther shrugs and pounces toward #4 as he pulls his new Great Axe from his belt. Worked pretty well last time...might as well give it another shot...
Gunther gives a mighty swing at the person in the forest. (AC32 for 8) As he begins his attack, Gunther wonders about his decision to join these Talons...seems like it's been pretty much one big fight since he joined them...
Ingrge 8d10(9+9+5+7+10+6+9+7)=62 Tuesday November 2nd, 2004 11:13:35 AM
Having picked the spell caster out of the ether, so to speak, Ingrge centers his first spell about 5 feet behind and to the right of where the spellcaster apparently is, and lets loose with a fireball. (I believe that would catch #1 as well as miss us) 62 points damage reflex DC 20 for half damage.
Athalorn (AC 17 I think HP 77/77) d4+1=5 Tuesday November 2nd, 2004 1:55:52 PM
The eagle spots the spellcaster from the sky just before the arrows are launched. Hovering above the party, the druid screeches in anger, and rising, begins casting a spell (ooc: Cast Summon Natures Ally IV - Black Bears x 5)
Figment (Invisible) Tuesday November 2nd, 2004 6:10:04 PM
The mage snarls at the caster and retorts "As you wish, spell caster...". He follows the comment by casting Greater Invisibility on himself and leaping off of Jux who he sends away with knowing dilligence as he races towards the voice of the mage.
Lian 25/47 hps(AC 25, flat footed AC 25, Touch AC 25) d20+6=12 d20+20=29 d20+17=36 d20+8=27 d20+4=14 d20+18=19 Tuesday November 2nd, 2004 6:19:52 PM
Lian staggers from the arrows.
The elven monk sneaks off into the brush just West of his current position, tumbling and hides (Hide 12, Move Silently 29, Tumble 36). (move action)
He quickly drinks his Elixer of Hiding (standard action) and goes about seeking the brigands nearby. (Spot 27, Listen 19, Search 14) He tries very hard to hear them moving around, but he can't pin-point them.
Brother Bertram [Sub Jay B] (AC 19, 73hps) Detect Evil Tuesday November 2nd, 2004 6:55:32 PM
(OOC: I don't have a spell list, so I'll use whats on his sheet.)
Hearing the voice directly infront of him, the dwarf grips his ax and casts Detect Evil. Once gaining position on the 'evil', the dwarf moves toward it.
He notices the monk disapppear into the brush and worries that he might get himself into trouble.
Milo d20+16=19 d4+2=3 Tuesday November 2nd, 2004 7:47:13 PM
After wincing to see Olana struck so, Milo stalks up to attacker 3, drawing his short sword as he moves. Reaching his opponent, he calls back over his shoulder to Olana, "Give me a flank, would you dear?" He swings once at his opponent. (OOC: Hit AC 19 for 3 hit points).
Olana d20+17=18 d20+14=29 d20+9=29 d8+2=5 d8+2=8 Wednesday November 3rd, 2004 12:47:00 AM
((Listen Check DC 18 - not brilliant))
"Be right with you," Olana says to Milo, reacting instinctively to getting hit, but aiming for where she heard that voice.
"Ingrge! Duck!" (Have Precise Shot feat) Olana fires two arrows in X's direction, hopefully hitting - AC 29, and AC 29 - for 5 and 8 DAM -
-then takes off after Milo and his assailant.
Glannath Wednesday November 3rd, 2004 12:48:31 AM
The large eagle matches Athalorn's height, position and velocity, ready to strike.
Falin d20=2 d20+22=32 d20+17=26 d8+3=11 d8+3=4 Wednesday November 3rd, 2004 5:53:11 AM
(OOC: Listen check of 2)
Falin does not hear the mage so he decides to target #2.
He draws his bow and fires twice into the forest.
Hit AC 32 and 26. Damage 11 and 4 respectively.
Combat Round 2 - DM Donna d20=11 d20+12=27 d10+5=9 d6=5 d20+6=10 d20+6=18 d20+6=19 d20+6=17 d20+6=15 d20+12=29 d6+5=7 d20+6=13 d20+2=18 d20+6=9 d20+2=16 d20+6=24 d20+2=10 d6+2=3 Wednesday November 3rd, 2004 8:24:24 AM
Gunther damages his opponent.
Ingrge hears a mirthless, mocking laugh and sees his fireball do naught but engulf the trees that the unseen spellcaster used for cover.
"Oh, my--it looks like that hurt." the familiar-looking human says mockingly--completely unharmed by the spell. Ingrge recognizes the face of the man as well as his distinctive robes: it is Holdrin, Cleric of Caeroldra and a member of the Hands of Love. "Not a very loving way to treat your precious forest, is it, elf?" Holdrin withdraws backwards, into the unburned forest, giving the elven weapon mage an irritatingly jaunty wave as he goes.
Athalorn's spell summons five black bears from within the Culverwood--whom converge on the spot that the arrogant cleric is withdrawing into. Ingrge registers the sound of a yelp of surprise and several bear growls/roars.
Figment is steps away from the outer fringes of the aftermath of Ingrge's Fireball spell when he is halted in a most unpleasant manner: a slimy, clawed, invisible hand tightly wrapped around his throat.
"Give Gargul the regards from the Abyss...!" hisses a voice softly in Draconic as the hand squeezes tightly, the spoken words releasing a fetid stench that would ordinarily make Figment gag--IF he were able to breathe. Figment suffers 7hpd and must make a Strength check versus DC21 to break his equally invisible foe's grip.
Lian's tumble has him pop up to his feet, wisely using the cover of the forest to his advantage, but he can clearly see to the north of his position burning trees and a familiar-looking human in a Hands of Love robe surrounded by black bears clawing at him, as well as Ambusher #6 to the south. #6 is turning and aiming his bow at K'Nara, who is engaging #5.
Brother Bert's spell detects overwhelming evil quite close by, and as the doughty dwarven cleric advances towards it, he catches a sound and a smell--the sound being that of a mocking sort of hiss (Bert doesn't speak Draconic, so he can't recognize it as such,) and the smell being the foul odor of a seven-day-old corpse rotting in jungle heat.
Milo manages to tag his opponent and Olana appears close by to back the halfling up. (Although she didn't get to SEE it herself, the arrows Olana fired didn't seem to do any damage to the revealed Cleric of Caeroldra.)
Falin's arrows strike true.
K'Nara--drawing her sword and leaping at Ambusher #5 as she screams "Lucia!!!" The Flaming Sword smacks into the man, doing a total of 14hpd.
Ambusher #1 curses out loud: "The stupid wizard went invisible!!!" Then he aims his arrows at Brother Bert, missing both times.
Ambusher #2--bleeding heavily--returns Falin's fire, but his archery skills are lacking this time around.
Ambusher #3 drops his bow and draws a short sword, his eye firmly fixed on Milo.
Ambusher #4 drops his bow and draws a long sword, preparing to do battle with Gunther.
Ambusher #5 drops his bow and also gets out a long sword, arming himself against the tall dancing swordswoman in front of him.
Ambusher #6 aims at K'Nara, since Figment is no longer visible to him: one of his arrows grazes K'Nara for 3hpd.
K'Nara now has 98 out of 101hp.
"Use the forest for cover..!" K'Nara shouts as she keeps her eye on #5. "Get out of the clearing!"
Gunther (AC20, HP 64/64) d20+15=18 d20+10=27 d12+7=18 d6=1 d12+7=12 d6=5 Wednesday November 3rd, 2004 9:19:17 AM
Nodding at the wisdom of K'nara's words, Gunther takes a 5 foot step into the forest before unleashing a full attack on his opponent. It takes a little while to get used to the unusual heft of the bulky weapon, as is evident in Gunther's attack (AC 18 for 19, AC27 for 17). Still, Gunther is pleasantly surprised by the raw power of the weapon as it slices toward #4. He smiles at his opponent. "Sometimes love is tough."
Athalorn (AC 17 HP 77/77) d20+19=28 Wednesday November 3rd, 2004 10:15:50 AM
(ooc: Donna - are you rolling for the black bears? Or do you want me to?)
Athalorn screeches in horror when he sees some trees burst into flame at Ingrge's spell. He can't think how to stop the fires, so instead, rising slightly to get a look at over the area looking for the creature at position #1. He calls forth the power of the forest once again to his mind (cast call lightning storm).
Lian 43/47 hps(AC 25, flat footed AC 25, Touch AC 25) d20+16=35 d20+20=22 d20+8=12 d20+4=24 Wednesday November 3rd, 2004 5:55:59 PM
(Elixer of Hiding 1 hour)
As much as he'd like to get his hands on Holdrin, #6 looks closer, so he leaves Holdrin's fate up to Ingrge. The mage will shut up that arrogant prude.
The elf concentrates and heals himself (Standard Action).[Heals 18]
The monk moves just under the profile of the brush, South toward #6 (Move Action).[Hide 35, Move Silently 22, Spot 12, Search 24]
Brother Bertram [Sub Jay B] (AC 19, 73hps) Detect Evil Wednesday November 3rd, 2004 6:10:04 PM
The dwarf concentrates on the position of the evil above him. He tries to pin down the target and distance above without actually looking up.
Figment (57/63 HP, Invisible) d20+1=6 d20+7=23 d4+2=4 Wednesday November 3rd, 2004 6:44:22 PM
With a thought the mage releases his Invisibility spell so his compatriots can see his dilemma after he miserably fails to break the grip. He draws out his daggar and begins to saw on the wrist of his attacker (Hit 23, 4 DMG).
Milo d20+16=31 d20+16=18 d20+11=18 d4+2=4 d4+2=3 d4+2=3 5d6(2+2+5+4+3)=16 5d6(5+5+4+1+6)=21 5d6(6+1+5+6+3)=21 Wednesday November 3rd, 2004 7:58:16 PM
A grim look on his face, Milo steps 5 feet around assailant number 3, and waits for Olana to do the same, taking up a flanking position. He then cuts loose with his tiny sword, and it becomes a blur of death. (OOC: Hit AC 31, 18, and 18 for 20 hps, 24 hps, and 24 hps respectively).
Ingrge d20+13=32 d20+13=25 d20+13=28 12d6(4+3+3+5+3+5+6+5+4+4+3+5)=50 Wednesday November 3rd, 2004 9:28:32 PM
Seeing Figment's plight, Ingrge sends three scorching rays directly into his opponent AC 32, 25 & 28 for 50 points of damage - No Save
Olana d20+12=25 d20+7=26 d8+3=10 d8+1=4 Thursday November 4th, 2004 12:42:51 AM
Pulling her longsword and flanking Milo, Olana brings it to bear on Bad Nasty #3.
AC 27(incl flank) and AC 26 for 10 and 4 DAM
"This is ridiculous," she hisses. "Is the entire Emerald Kingdom after our hides?"
Combat Round 3 - DM Donna d20+6=14 d20+6=13 d20+15=35 d20+15=24 d10+6=12 d10+6=14 d6=3 d20+6=14 d20+6=24 d20+6=9 d20+6=17 d20+6=20 d20+6=11 d20+6=10 d20+6=15 d20+6=11 d20+6=25 d20+6=26 d20+2=3 d20+6=24 d20+2=13 d6+2=3 d6+2=7 d20+6=24 d20+2=6 d8+4=7 d20+6=22 d20+6=12 d20+2=4 Thursday November 4th, 2004 2:47:29 PM
Gunther's attack is partially successful, but #4 is still standing.
Athalorn and Glannath can feel and smell the build-up of ozone in the air.
Lian finds himself within strike range of #6.
Bert is pretty sure that the evil-smelling Evil is about in front of him--the sudden appearance of Figment dangling almost a foot off the ground seems to confirm that there's an Invisible, Stinky Evil in front of him.
Between Milo and Olana, there is a bloody pile of flesh and bone that used to be a Hands of Love flunkey.
Ingrge's Scorching Rays strike at the likeliest place where the Invisible Stinky Evil must be standing...yet all that happens is that Bert seems to think that the Stinky part diminishes briefly and (now that there are three Talons aware of an Invisible Stinky Evil) sibilant laughter is heard, along with a rather cold and frightening assurance in the Draconic language: "I'm not impressed..."
*Something invisible has your mule-headed wizard by the throat!!!* Lucia's mental voice warns K'Nara, who looks over her shoulder in time to see Ingrge's Rays strike nothing.
"Where..?" K'Nara demands, wishing she could see it--then, suddenly, her hazel eyes open wide...because now she CAN see it: a tall, gaunt, rotten-looking humanoid whose head was adorned with a pair of black horns that curved back away from its face--a face that had a pair of cruel, glittering eyes and a mouth (fully half of the space on the face) full of long sharp teeth.
Though it opens her to a couple of Attacks of Opportunity from #5 (which both miss), the human bladesinger charges back across the clearing, whirling Lucia to deadly effect (OOC: a crit hit that deals 26hpd and 3hp fire damage.)
NOTE: The Invisible Stinky Evil is still invisible--K'Nara's using See Invisibility via her sword to be able to see what had Figment in a death grip.
The black bears still surround Holdrin and each of them try to maul the handsome but evil cleric--but none of their claws seem to be able to penetrate the colorful light that shields the man. (OOC: I'm rolling for the bears.)
Ambushers #1 and #2--true to the shouted orders of Holdrin--target the now-visible Figment and let fly four arrows. Though only two of them strike the wizard, they deal a total of 10hpd.
#4 strikes back at Gunther, one blow (AC24) striking for 7hpd.
#5--now that K'Nara has chosen to fight the Unseen Assailant--comes to the aid of #6 and strikes once at Lian, missing the monk by a mile.
#6 takes a five-foot-step back and fires his arrows at Figment just as his fellow ambushers did, only the chaos of the battlefield ruins his aim and Figment remains unscathed...this time.
Holdrin--unharmed by the persistent wildlife that surrounds him--shouts in Draconic: "Well? Does he have it???"
The Invisible, Stinky Evil growls back in the same tongue: "I detected no artifact upon him...in fact--there seems to be no such aura here at all." The voice sounds sorely aggrieved to have suffered a physical attack instead of laughing off magic ones.
"Then begone--leave these fools!" Holdrin yells once more in Draconic, and then mutters something with a gesture. (All those with that handy-dandy Spellcraft skill make a check versus DC17 to tell that Holdrin is casting Word of Recall.)
Holdrin disappears...as does the Invisible, Stinky Evil from K'Nara's sight and from both Brother Bertram's and Figment's range of smell.
Gunther (AC20, HP 57/64) d20+15=35 d20+15=18 d20+10=13 d12+7=10 d6=5 Thursday November 4th, 2004 4:54:21 PM
Focusing entirely on his opponent, Gunther once more wages a full attack, bringing the gigantic axe down in two slices. His first strike hammers home (AC35/18...prob. not a crit for 15) while his second attack bounces uselessly off the man's armor (AC13). Gunther grins a feral grin at the man, waiting for his attack.
Lian 43/47 hps(AC 25, flat footed AC 25, Touch AC 25) d20+13=20 d20+13=32 d20+10=27 2d6(1+1)+2=4 2d6(2+6)+2=10 2d6(1+3)+2=6 Thursday November 4th, 2004 5:34:45 PM
(Dodge vs #6, AC 26) The monk notices #5 step up and take some bad swing. The graceful monk stands straight up and starts pummeling #5 with blow after blow.(AC 20(stunning attack), 32(stunning attack) and 27 for 4, 10 and 6 damage... stunning attack DC 19 fort) "Here are my Fists of Love you moron." Says the smiling monk.
Brother Bertram [Sub Jay B] (AC 19, 73hps) Detect Evil d20+11=31 d20+11=22 d10+5=9 d10+5=12 d6=3 d6=1 d6=1 d6=1 Thursday November 4th, 2004 6:13:05 PM
"Bah!" Says the dwarf in disgust as he swings around and sees three fronts of combat.
He moves toward #1 and swings his axe once. (AC 31(crit threat 22) for 9 (21 if crit), if #1 is chaotic he takes 6 more damage)
OOC: Donna, Mark still has the feat Ambidexterity on his sheet. Shouldn't that get changed?
Milo d20+18=25 5d6(4+1+4+3+4)=16 d4+2=5 Thursday November 4th, 2004 8:18:48 PM
Milo's grin is feral, "Let them come Olana, I'm ready." With that the halfling charges into a flanking position opposite Gunther, and jabs the big man's assailant in the back, twisting the blade. (OOC: Hit AC 25 for 21 hit points damage.)
Olana (69/69 AC 20) Friday November 5th, 2004 12:27:28 AM
Stalking toward assailant #2, she's unaware of the recall and if this particular creature will disappear, too.
"Don't run!" she growls at #2. "There are questions we'll be needing answers to."
Athalorn 5d6(3+3+6+2+2)=16 Friday November 5th, 2004 5:25:00 AM
Athalorn focuses on the spell in his mind, and brings a bolt of lightning to the point where #2 is standing. (16 damage)
Athalorn 5d6(3+3+6+2+2)=16 Friday November 5th, 2004 5:25:19 AM
Athalorn focuses on the spell in his mind, and brings a bolt of lightning to the point where #2 is standing. (16 damage)
DM Donna Friday November 5th, 2004 8:15:49 AM
ooc: there are a few people who need to post.
Glannath Friday November 5th, 2004 11:37:26 AM
The great eagle wheels around in a circle, his eyes on the lookout for threats to his companion.
Falin d20+22=23 d20+17=26 d8+3=9 Friday November 5th, 2004 12:21:20 PM
Falin draws and fires at #2 again.
(Rolled a natural 1 on the first roll and hit AC 26 with the second as long as I didn't shoot myself with the botch.)
(Damage 9 points)
(OCC: sorry. None of my posts here yesterday would post.)
Figment Friday November 5th, 2004 4:57:49 PM
The mage falls to the ground gasping for breath - knowing he now has a cleric to track down and kill at some point. So much for being merciful to evil...
Combat Round 4 -- DM Donna d100=23 d20+5=7 d20+6=25 d20+6=12 d20+15=31 d10+5=13 d6=6 d20+6=12 d20+6=26 d20+6=25 d6+3=4 d6+3=9 d20+6=13 d20+6=9 Sunday November 7th, 2004 12:53:36 PM
Brother Bertram's blows do not connect--because he finds himself fumbling with his weapon and it slips from his grasp.
#1 drops his bow and pulls out a long sword, calling the dwarf's parentage into question in the dwarf's own language.
Between Athalorn's lightning and Falin's arrow, Olana's threat falls on deaf ears, as #2 falls to the ground.
Between Gunther and Milo, #4 is effectively killed.
Lian's opponent (#5) resists the stunning effect the first time the monk hits him, but not the second, so he cannot strike back this round.
K'Nara--after glancing down to make sure that Figment isn't seriously hurt (and he isn't, thank goodness!)--leaps at #6, swinging her fiery blade at the archer even as he tries to aim at the prone wizard on the clearing floor. She connects, doing 13hpd and 6hp fire damage. Her opponent drops his bow and reaches for his long sword, pulling it from its scabbard.
The five black bears, smelling that Holdrin and the Invisible Stinky Evil are gone, split up and run at #1 and #5 respectively.
Two of the bears claw at #1, doing 13hpd total.
Bears "d" and "e" try to claw #5, but both miss.
Milo Sunday November 7th, 2004 1:11:00 PM
Milo takes a double move, moving forty feet across the clearing to challenge assailant 2. His look of grim determination is broken only when he quickly turns his head toward Olana long enough for a playful wink.
Lian 43/47 hps(AC 25, flat footed AC 25, Touch AC 25) d20+13=31 d20+13=15 d20+10=26 2d6(6+5)+2=13 2d6(2+1)+2=5 2d6(4+5)+2=11 Sunday November 7th, 2004 6:33:54 PM
(Dodge vs #6, AC 26) (2 of 10 stunning attacks used)
Lian strikes out at the stunned and teetering #5. (AC 31, 15 and 26, for 13, 5 and 11 damage) [Just a helpful reminder: Stunned critters take -2 to their AC and lose Dex to AC]
"K'Nara my friend, should we attempt to keep one alive?"
Brother Bertram [Sub Jay B] (AC 19, 73hps) Detect Evil d20+11=23 d10+5=11 d6=1 d6=5 Sunday November 7th, 2004 6:41:31 PM
(OOC: Why did Bertram lose grip on his ax? The attack was a natural 20 against an archer, and missed entirely?)
The dwarf curses back and grips his ax twice as hard as before so not to drop it. With the bears flanking, he takes a swing. (AC 25 +flank, for 11 damage, 17 if chaotic)
DM's OOC: hmmmm...why, indeed? This is the second time this has happened in battle, if memory serves. How odd.
Gunther (AC20, HP 57/64) d20+17=25 d12+7=16 d6=6 Monday November 8th, 2004 12:32:58 AM
Disappointed that his opponent was dropped so easily, Gunther decides to lend a helping hand to K'nara. He quickly and easily spans the 20 feet dividing him from #6 and moves into flanking position. Then, once more he brings his axe hammering down. (AC25 for 22dam)
Combat Over -- DM Donna d20+11=27 d10+5=15 d6=4 d20+6=13 d20+6=15 d20+6=26 d20+6=13 d20+6=26 d20+6=21 d20+6=17 d20+6=24 d20+6=24 d6+3=7 d6+3=7 d6+3=9 d6+3=5 d6+3=5 Monday November 8th, 2004 6:44:16 AM
OOC: I should have removed #4 from the map I circulated...sorry about the confusion.
IC:
Lian's attacks put #5 down for the count.
Even as the monk asks about intentionally keeping one of the prisoners alive, Gunther's and then K'Nara's blows end the life of #6.
"Um...I think yours is still breathing, Lian..?" K'Nara more asks than tells the elf.
Brother Bertram dropped his weapon last round and can be pulling out a new one or picking up the one he dropped this round, but cannot be swinging a weapon at anyone for this last round.
No matter, though...the bears assisting the cleric with Bad Guy #1 succeed in mauling the man to death when their claws rend him for another 33hpd total. (Ouch!)
Similarly (unfortunately) the bears by Lian's downed opponent shred him to pieces as well.
However...Olana and Milo stand next to a relatively-intact ambusher...he just MIGHT still be breathing...
Olana d20+13=19 Monday November 8th, 2004 12:51:26 PM
'A live one," Olana says to Milo with a grin. Quickly she attempts to stabilize their captive.
((Heal check DC 19))
While doing so, she calls out - "Figment! You okay?"
Athalorn Monday November 8th, 2004 2:03:26 PM
In eagle for, the druid drops the lightning spell from his mind, and with a screech of command orders the bears to halt their attacks. He lands on the forest floor, and turns back into human form. Instantly, he runs to the forest that was damaged by fire, hoping to quench any remaining flames.
Brother Bertram [Sub Jay B] (AC 19, 73hps) Monday November 8th, 2004 6:37:30 PM
A very confused and upset dwarf just looks at his ax on the ground. "What happened?" He tries to figure if it was some sort of spell effect or if he's just getting old. He looks at his friends, "Um, I'm not usually one to complain here, but I was wholley ineffective this combat because something had caused me to drop my ax." The dwarf is confused and looks back down at his ax.
Lian 43/47 hps(AC 25, flat footed AC 25, Touch AC 25) Monday November 8th, 2004 6:41:33 PM
The monk cringes at the bears tear into the man. "Uh, nevermind." He walks over to K'Nara. "The bears just made short work of mine."
Then he hears something about Bertram dropping his ax and moves to him. "Well, perhaps your haft has loosened." The monk attempts to pick up the ax, which looks quite funny since the monk isn't often seen with a bladed weapon.
(OOC: Donna, let me know if Lian drops it or if something bad happens. ;))
Ingrge Monday November 8th, 2004 8:09:17 PM
Hmm, well that was interesting. It seems that The HOL are interested in the serpent star as well. I expect that won't be the last we see of them.
Gunther d20+1=9 Monday November 8th, 2004 10:09:09 PM
Cleaning the blood from the blades of his sword, Gunther looks anxiously into the forest, searching for his kitty (Spot=9). His mind races as he searches the surrounding undergrowth. Tinges of fear wrap their tentacles throughout his limbs. Perhaps she is hurt...or worse...perhaps she has decided to leave...
When he returns to the camp, Gunther sighs. Turning to K'nara, his face is contorted with conflicting emotions. "I tink I heard dat von of de attackers is alive... Vould you like me to interrogate him for you? I know of a few techniques dat are very handy for extracting information from unvilling people."
Milo d20+1=10 Monday November 8th, 2004 10:55:18 PM
Milo kneels down to assist Olana with stabilizing their former attacker in the hope that they might glean some information from him. (OOC: Rolled a 10 to successfully assist Olana in the Heal check. This gives Olana a +2 bringing her result up to 21.)
Bertram Tuesday November 9th, 2004 5:16:13 AM
The dwarf leaves the elf hanging with the ax and rushes over to see if Olana needs help with the HoL. If need be, the cleric will pop off a CLW into the man.
Lian Tuesday November 9th, 2004 5:59:37 AM
"Bertram, this things heavy. Come on!" The monk waits a minute, then hefts the chunk of metal over to Bertram.
Falin Tuesday November 9th, 2004 6:00:34 AM
(OCC: Sorry abuot the intermitent post I have been in my own little world oblivious to the passage of time.)
Snapping out of his little world Falin reacts to the comment about having someone to ask questions to.
"You know a most effective way to iterrogate a prisoner is to bring out some greek fire, sand, and a fileting knife...."
Falin trails off with that last statement with a slight smile crossing his face.
Ve Haff Vays of Making You Talk -- DM Donna d20+1=15 Tuesday November 9th, 2004 7:01:24 AM
Though heavy and unwieldy to the monk, Lian suffers no ill consequences when he picks up and hands Bertram back his axe.
Olana, Milo and Bertram's attention to the HOL lackey pays off in that the man is healed a bit (OOC: count the CLW as healing the max HPs allowed for the spell) and regains consciousness.
"Well, Gunther," K'Nara says to the beastmaster, "If you're really that eager to speak to him, kindly ask our 'guest' why the HOL attacked us and what they hoped to get out of it. Falin can help you if he wishes to..." The grin she aims the prisoner's way is NOT nice at all.
Gunther's concern about the pretty black kitty he'd failed to notice had been preoccupied earlier is allayed when the large feline comes out of the forest...dragging a corpse of another human (at least, it's human-sized) and bearing the logo of the HOL on its body. The she-cat drops the body proudly at Gunther's feet as though to say see? You can all eat now that I've gotten dinner again!
Anyone making a Spot check better than DC10 can tell that what's left of this HOL body is dressed in rather camouflaged clothing and was likely the point-man for the ambush. K'Nara has made her check with a total of 15.
"The elf-haters snuck up on us from behind." K'Nara points out in a sour voice. "Great--now we have to look out for the thieves ahead of us and the-gods-only-know-HOW-many others behind us!" Then her hazel eyes fall on the recovering Figment, who appears to be mostly unhurt.
"What in the 666 Layers of the Abyss were you thinking, Figment???" she suddenly demands of the spellcaster. "What happened to your usual 'fly out of harm's way' tactic? That...that...thing nearly squeezed the life out of you!!!"
Anyone who is nominally paying attention to K'Nara's outburst may choose to roll a Sense Motive check versus DC20. This IS a purely voluntary roll--it isn't necessary, but it may or may not prove interesting to the PC. I'll email those who succeed with the roll as to what they sense.
Figment Tuesday November 9th, 2004 7:54:16 AM
Nodding to Olana that he's OK he tries to answer K'Nara through compressed throat. "Actually, I could only cast one spell and I chose invisibility first. I was trying to put my eyes on the cleric before casting fly. Then I could blast him. Looks to me like the HOL want the lantern too - and they are now ahead of us in the pursuit. We are in a 3 way race now. Seems like showing mercy to evil was not wise. We should have killed him when we had the chance in Fae. I will not miss another chance again if it presents itself.".
Athalorn Tuesday November 9th, 2004 1:15:04 PM
The druid ignores all others, although he commands the balck bears to wander into the edges of the forest, in order that they may keep a look out for any stragglers.
Instead, the druid smothers any remaining flames with his cloak, and calls on the power of the Culverwood to aid him restore the plants in the area (ooc: Cast Plant Growth on the damaged area)
Gunther d20+12=13 d20+1=16 d20=20 d20+1=7 Tuesday November 9th, 2004 2:38:37 PM
Gunther's mile wide smile at the panther should leave no doubt in her mind as to how proud his is of her. Reaching out, Gunther attempts to rub her ears (Handle Animal=nat. 1). Instead, he gets a good swat on his hand. Blood trickles down from four minor scrap. Gunther, however, just chuckles at the behavior. "Vell, I suppose dat vas my own fault. You come to Gunther on your own time, eh?"
Nodding at K'nara, Gunther grabs up the mauled corpse and drags it over to the surviving Hand of Love. As the man regains consciousness, Gunther shoves the mauled corpse in his face (Spot=16). "Time to rise and shine. My friends and I vant answers and ve vant dem now! You tell me vhat I vant to know and maybe I'll let you live... You don't, and vell... dis is de best possible death dat you vill die." (Intimidate=20) Gunther allows a brief pause for his threats to sink in to the man's imagination, and then he begins his interrogation. "Vhy vere you following us? Vat did you vant? How many oders of dere are you? Who do you report to?" As he questions the man, Gunther looks to K'nara to see if there is any further information that she might desire (Sense Motive=7).
Milo Tuesday November 9th, 2004 8:38:12 PM
Looking down at the prisoner, Milo's look of serious determination never fades, but is intensified as it becomes one of crazed annoyance. Twirling his short sword, it becomes a blur in his hand, "You will speak vermin, or I'll see about re-circumcizing you... And I... mean... NOW." The halfling's voice intensifies even as it grows quiet.
Glannath Tuesday November 9th, 2004 10:57:12 PM
Glannath is circling above, his keen eyes on the ground. Fire usually brought out small prey, scampering for safety, and he was feeling a bit peckish.
Olana d20=13 d20=5 Tuesday November 9th, 2004 11:01:24 PM
Olana stands back out of the way, letting Milo and Gunther do the intimidation thing. Distracted, her eyes drift off toward the forest and the fire. If the situation still looks a bit precarious, she'll go help Athalorn.
(Missed that last check)
Ingrge d20+2=8 Tuesday November 9th, 2004 11:15:59 PM
Ingrge seems t think K'nara is being her normal self and notices nothing funny. "Aye Figment, they probably are but if you include the ones who have it I count it a four way struggle."
Finishing Business -- DM Donna d20+2=12 d20=17 Wednesday November 10th, 2004 6:57:12 AM
Athalorn's efforts to repair the fire damage are rather successful--fortunately for the Culverwood, the forest in this area is very green (wet) and the fire didn't spread, although it did damage its direct strike area. The druid's use of his magic, however, minimizes the damage.
The black bears that had been summoned by Athalorn's earlier spell aid him by pawing at the ground and using the loosened earth to help smother odd bits of flame on the undergrowth here and there. What is left of the fire is soon out.
After hearing Figment's actually rather logical explanation, K'Nara looks visibly relieved, then she digs something out of her backpack, kneeling and handing the bottle she's unearthed to the wizard, muttering something that sounds like "neither will I..." to Figment's ears.
"Here--it's a Cure potion..." the female fighter explains, "...if you can swallow it, it should help with your throat..." K'Nara scowls, obviously recalling the sight of the slimy, creepy creature strangling Figment. (OOC: it's a CLW potion. Roll 1d8+3 to find out how much it helps Figment.)
Getting to her feet, K'Nara speaks the word to turn off the still-flaming Lucia and sheathes the sword as she turns to Gunther, Falin and Milo. Gunther's feline friend slinks off into the shadows once more.
The single prisoner wilts under Gunther's questioning (his opposing check is only 12 to Gunther's 20), and definitely looks VERY nervous, babbling in his efforts to answer after Milo reinforces the orc-raised warrior's interrogation with his own "offer".
"We were supposed to get Caeroldra's Heart from you...everybody came along on this except the wizard...Holdrin is in charge--he's the one that summoned the demon..." All during his enlightening speech, the man can't help but glance at the panther-mangled body of his late colleague.
"...'Caeroldra's Heart'..?" K'Nara echoes, puzzled. Then--after thinking about it for a moment (OOC: made an Int check vs. DC15) the chestnut-haired bladesinger asks: "Do you mean that artifact--the one Parnoth calls the Serpent Star?"
"It's Caeroldra's Heart!" the man insists forcefully, then eyes Milo and that sword, adding in a less insistent tone: "Holdrin says it's really Caeroldra's Heart and it belongs in the Temple of Caeroldra, may all know her love..."
K'Nara arches an eyebrow Figment and Ingrge's way. Caeroldra's Heart..?
Figment d8+3=9 d20+23=37 Wednesday November 10th, 2004 7:21:43 AM
The mage drinks the potion and is fully healed. Clearing his throat he says "That's better...". Flipping through his memory files he tries to recall anything he can about Caeroldra's Heart (Arcana DC 37) - and he tries not to kill the ingrate for spewing bile about her love. At least for now.
Lian Wednesday November 10th, 2004 7:27:15 AM
"It's a Great Artifact, everyone wants it, of course it'll have a half dozen names."
Bertram [Sub Jay B] d20+7=22 Wednesday November 10th, 2004 7:30:52 AM
(Knowledge Religion 22)
Does the name Caeroldra's Heart ring any bells?
The dwarf take the ax from the elf. "Thanks."
Gunther Wednesday November 10th, 2004 8:19:29 AM
Satisfied for now with the man's answers Gunther allows a pause in the interrogation while he turns to the others, leaving the man under the capable watch of Milo. Moving in close to K'nara, Gunther wipes his bloody hands as he converses with her in whispers. "I tink he is telling de truth. Is dere anyting else you vish to know from him? Vat do you vant to do vith him ven ve are done? It looks like dese "Hands of Love" are de unreasonable type. Vould ve be making a mistake if ve allowed him to live?" All out of clever questions of his own to ask the zealot, Gunther waits for K'nara's orders.
Athalorn Wednesday November 10th, 2004 10:10:15 AM
The druid - not one for politics, only for helping his friends and the forest - continues working with the bears to replenish the forest. His plant growth spell should sustain the area for months to come. Pleased, he walks back to the others, assuming he will be filled in on the details when the group has decided what is going on and what to do.
Milo Wednesday November 10th, 2004 9:49:35 PM
"So... do we kill him, or let him go? I'm for lettin' the worm go... with little except his clothes for protection of course." Milo snarls at the HOL'er.
Falin Wednesday November 10th, 2004 10:12:44 PM
Falin turns to K'Nara, "I have been gone for a while so tell me who this cleric is and what the organization is. This does not sound of love to me."
"One more thing. I know we are looking for this lantern, but what does it do? What can it do for us?," Falin looks agitated. "I thought that in returning to the Wold I could relax and since I came back we are constantly bombarded because of this lantern."
In a sudden bought of rage he turns to the captive, "Hands of LOVE?!?!?! LOVE?!?!?!?!? What the hell does love got to do with this? How can you justify killing people for love?"
Olana Thursday November 11th, 2004 2:10:24 AM
Olana frowns as their captive starts going on about affairs of the heart. "What would you know about that, you twit," she says quietly, glancing his way.
Lian's comment spikes her interest. "That could well be true. Or - perhaps there's a few of these things."
Decisions, Decisions -- DM Donna Thursday November 11th, 2004 6:21:15 AM
Bertram vaguely recalls that there is a rule within the code of conduct for the Hands of Love that requires them to ever be on the lookout for "the Heart of Caeroldra", and--if they ever find it--to return it to the Temple and guard it with their very souls (and lives.)
Figment's recollections from previous library forays on unrelated subjects include a bit more: a few hundred years ago, a priestess of Caeroldra returned from a sabbatical with a glowing magical lantern, dying as she gave it to her fellow clerics. Her last words were an exortation to never have the lantern leave the safety of the Temple. Opening the lantern revealed a glowing, heart-shaped jewel within. Thus was "Caeroldra's Heart" declared to be a genuine gift from the goddess herself and immediately ensconced within the Temple.
Caeroldra's Heart was stolen from the Hands Of Love and recovered two or three times over the next two centuries, before finally disappearing from the Temple for good about three hundred years ago or so...at least, it had until now.
"I guess it shouldn't surprise us that it has several different names," K'Nara agrees with Lian, "The stupid thing has been around for, what..? At least a millenium."
The female fighter clues Athalorn in on what is happening with their prisoner and what's occured with him so far, then she remembers to thank the druid for attending to the damaged forest.
"Since we've run out of questions for this one to answer," K'Nara says to Gunther (addressing Milo and Falin as well), "I am more than half inclined to put him out of our misery...however, he's a prisoner, so that wouldn't be right to do that now." Her fair brow puckers in thought for a moment. "If I remember correctly, there's a village near here...I think we can prevail upon the natives to house our guest there until we come back." K'Nara leers at the HOL lackey.
"What do you say to accepting some good, old-fashioned elven hospitality, eh?" she asks him mockingly. The man looks like he'd rather have Milo run him through.
Lian Thursday November 11th, 2004 7:13:05 AM
"I suppose our next question is... from whom did the silly priestess steal this jewel from to begin with?" He glares at the HoL.
The monk thinks a moment, "Wait, I've been reading this book of Domi's exploits and there was mention of an artifact known as the 'Heart of Domi'... Could this also be this artifact?"
Figment 5d4(1+4+3+4+1)+4=17 Thursday November 11th, 2004 7:13:39 AM
The mage tells the others of his knowledge of the Lantern. And when there is talk of letting this animal live he blasts him with a Magic Missile (17 DMG). Defiantly he stands and scowls knowing the warrior woman's tendency to not like her leadership challenged. "I don't know where your heads are, people. This animal - and that's what he is - shot us in the BACK! And would again if he had the chance. He'd also kill more elves or anyone else who stood in the way of 'the love' he shares with his god. It's like turning a rabid dog loose in an area where there are lots of small children. Maybe it doesn't kill immediately - but it will. I won't be responsible for the death of elves - or refrain from avenging the death of other elves because I was afraid to act. I just saved elven lives and I'm sure they thank me would for it when faced with living or being shot in the back. Look at what we got for showing mercy to the HOL cleric! Never again will I show mercy to the HOL - never! This is not an 'honorable' war. We are under no obligations to show mercy or spare lives of evil doers for its kill or be killed. And if you don't have the stomach for it, I do! And if I see any other of those 'people' around here I will kill them for who they are. I will not wait for them to attack me. That's insane because they will.".
Bertram [Sub Jay B] Thursday November 11th, 2004 7:15:16 AM
Seems the monk has shocked the dwarf again. His jaw sinks at the mention of Domi's Heart.
Athalorn Thursday November 11th, 2004 10:37:33 AM
The druid watches Figment's outburst with disdain. "I think that the elves would not thank us if we brought trouble to their village, and trouble will surely follow this one." He turns to Figment, speaking candidly. "Killing him in cold blood, Figment? You are as devoid of moral as these beasts themselves," indicating the prisoner. "Let the forest take the lives of our prisoners. Loose in the great wood, they are as dead, and will feed her strength."
Milo Thursday November 11th, 2004 8:22:57 PM
Looking around to everyone except Figment, "Anybody got some rope? I'll have him tied up proper before we're off to handin' him over to the elves." Milo still keeps one eye on the prisoner.
Figment Thursday November 11th, 2004 9:17:22 PM
The mage retorts to the druid "Your moral compass seems so very disoriented. It would have been an act of evil to let him live. I don't relish killing of ANY kind. But we made a commitment to protect this forest and its denizens. Letting him live is a direct violation of that commitment - and aids Parnoth in the process. You should not take oaths you have no stomach to keep. And though you may not wish to hear it now, I thank you for restoring the forest. Perhaps we at least can agree on that.".
Bertram Friday November 12th, 2004 1:19:08 AM
Bertram offers up some silk rope to the halfling. "I'll like it back when your done." The dwarf smiles.
Lian Friday November 12th, 2004 1:22:03 AM
"Just break his kneecaps, that'll keep this one in line." The elf sneers at the HoL.
The elf takes K'Nara off to one side and speaks quietly. "Are you sure it's safe leaving this one with the elves. The clergy might be watching him as we speak and they might attack the village to get him back."
Olana Friday November 12th, 2004 3:04:01 AM
The elf sighs. "We have to be practical. If he'll be a danger to our mission or the elves we seek to leave him with, then he has to go. "I'm not sure letting him loose in the forest is a more humane thing to do, either. We all know what it's like, when Culverwood has a mind to be a life-taker."
What IS Evil..? -- DM Donna Friday November 12th, 2004 7:04:41 AM
When all the different information is shared amongst the Talons, it is clear that the artifact in the shape of a magic lantern is very obviously more than old enough to be known by several names, highly dependent upon whom is naming the object.
Figment's spell ends the question of what to do with the prisoner--the man is definitely dead.
K'Nara's hazel eyes pierce the apparently unrepentant wizard, but then she closes them briefly with a sigh--looking, for a brief moment, as though her years of living have doubled on her. When she opens her eyes again, though, there is a look of compassion and sadness.
"Figment..." the auburn-tressed young woman attempts to explain, "...as bad as this man may have been, you have taken away any chance he had to learn the error of his ways. I agree mostly with your philosophy: Evil must be destroyed...but you don't always have to kill it to destroy it." She looked down at the lifeless lackey, frowning. "I've heard that many of these so-called 'Soldiers of Love' have been taken by the Temple--or sometimes even sold or just plain given to it by desperate parents--when they are but young children. They are indoctrinated early and filled with that lovely brand of 'truth' that the Hands of Love hold so very dear...if this was the case with THIS particular person, he truly didn't know better--and will now never know better because he's dead." Once more, the leader of the Talons sighs.
"We need to get that artifact back." she says firmly. "We have to be on the lookout not only for it, but also now for possible attacks from three different potential enemies. I don't have time to debate the best way to handle Evil people. IF we have the magic left to do so, let's pile the bodies together, zap them into ash, get some rest and then get on with our mission."
K'Nara immediately sets about to do this--she does not make eye contact with Figment while she does so, however.
Lian Friday November 12th, 2004 8:30:55 AM
The monk looks at the mage as he's chastized by K'Nara. After the red head is through, the elf walks up to Figment. "Fig, while I don't think there can be good without evil, I agree that what you did here was for the benefit of the mission."
Bertram [Sub Jay B] Friday November 12th, 2004 8:34:50 AM
The dwarf just holds the rope, almost in shock at what the mage did.
Figment Friday November 12th, 2004 8:41:02 AM
The mage sighs a bit as well, and helps with the morbid job. He blasts them with a firball once the pyre is ready - and makes sure its a good one. The mage stands a bit subdued and mentions one last thing on the subject. "There is a major demon who walks the Wold because we showed mercy to evil. How many innocent lives will be on our heads for that error in judgement? We must not fail to take out the cleric and his minions. We are responsible.". He mounts Jux and ensues the chase as they go.
Athalorn Saturday November 13th, 2004 4:02:38 AM
The druid stares Figment in the eye at the retort, emotionless. "My compass is true, and I know my values. You are clearly misguided, wizard, and have lost what respect you may have had from me. As for the forest, then be sure it was not for your thanks I did that." He speaks no more to Figment, and as they leave he takes to the skies once more as an Eagle, joining Glannath. For the first time since joining the Talons, he is unsure where to place his trust.
Figment Saturday November 13th, 2004 7:18:22 AM
The mage grimly nods, thanking Lian for his support.
As the young druid flies off he simply shakes his head. "You would pass the responsibility of ending that man's life on to the forest instead of having the resolve to do it yourself? That's cowardice - and has no honor at all. At least have the courage to do the dirty work yourself.".
Falin Saturday November 13th, 2004 7:50:51 AM
"Figment, I feel what you have done was the right thing to do. It is not our place to bring undo harm to others and that is what would have happened by allowing him to live." Falin turns,"K'Nara, although I do feel that people are worth a second chance we have neither the time or the resources at our disposal at this time to do anything about it. Maybe after we are done with this little swaray we can look at rehabilitation for these brainwashed souls, but until then HOL might as well stand for Hand Occupied Landfill as long as they stand between us and the one item that can end Parnoth." At the end there is a rage that burns in Falins eyes. Then as quickly as it appeared it is gone.
Lucia Saturday November 13th, 2004 7:59:12 AM I can not believe the drama you breathing types go through for us non breathing types. I certainly hope this lantern is worth all of the trouble. I will have to work harder in the future to look for badies before we get caught.
Gunther Saturday November 13th, 2004 9:31:37 PM
The large warrior stands for several long moments with his jaw wide open...completely taken aback at Figment's actions. Like a spectator in a tennis match, his head bounces back and forth between K'nara and Figment...and then Figment and Athalorn as words are exchanged. Then finally, he manages to close his mouth, muttering something about "Glad he didn't know me a few years ago..." under his breath as he takes up a position far from Figment.
Ingrge Sunday November 14th, 2004 1:34:53 PM
Helping with things as they are needed, Ingrge gives a nod to Figment as emotions get more than a bit raw.
Stopping a moment before they take off, he turns and while looking extremely uncomfortable, addresses the entire group.
"Most of you know I am not a very verbose person, but before we go on, I feel we need to clear the air of a few things as there seems to be more and more dissention within our ranks than we have ever seen. I attribute this to no one, two ore any number of people, but to the situations we have been finding ourselves in of late. Many of us have a history with some of our foes that others have no understanding of. So I will take a quick moment to try and explain some of it.
For those of you who do not know, The Hands of Love and their ilk are a power hungry group of psychotically passionate clerics who came to the conclusion that they could and should use love as a tool of power to control those who didn't understand their loves until they did. They will and have done anything to anyone in order to further their purposes all in the name of love and Caeroldra. They are direct and violent; using coercion, fear abduction, punishment, torture and death to impose their beliefs and commands.
When we first came across Holdrin, he had taken over a local village and had killed most of the adults and was indoctrinating all the youth and orphans of this town through the use of torture. We saved the town and it is flourishing at this time, or was. At that time we let Holdrin alive. We later came across more of his work as we were leaving to go to Fae Skiemeir in the form of a young elven male who had their symbol carved into his chest along with many other wounds that indicated he had been tortured for hours, before being allowed to die. Again we left Holdrin alive once we caught up with him. And here we find him, yet again, back in the Emerald Kingdom continuing his evil ways. I will not let another Titania occur again if it takes my last breath to stop it and Holdrin.
There was much less evil in that abomination of a Dragon construct that we fought to recover the artifact, than there is in Holdrin and the HOL, and yet we killed that pitiful beast without any hesitation or compunction.
Why in the name of Domi and all that is good should we spare even one of these HOL from the fate which they have been so lovingly dealing out to our people? They have made their choices time and time again. Their victims have not.
I understand however, that there is another side to our problems. Those of us who have been together longer, know and usually understand how we think and why. Perhaps some of us have become too hardened and no longer look for that very slim sliver of good that might be found in one of our foes. Maybe that is wrong, but we are still alive when perchance we might not be.
However "we" do not know, at least very well, where our newest compatriots draw their strength, direction, and guidance from. This is something that "we" need to remedy if we are going to continue as a group.
However, new or old, there two things we all agreed upon. Those were that we are bound together to defend the Emerald Kingdom and its peoples, whatever their form, and that we would defend and support each other.
If that is no longer the case, then any who no longer believes in these two things should leave now and no hard feelings will be held against you."
Figment Sunday November 14th, 2004 7:33:03 PM
The mage chooses to be silent as Ingrge makes his speech opting to listen to the others.
Milo Monday November 15th, 2004 12:52:02 AM
Milo considers Ingrge's words very seriously, then speaks, very seriously, "Dear friend, for that is what I consider you Ingrge, I do protect the Emerald Kingdom, with my body, my heart, and my soul. I do support this group as a whole. However, if we are to go on wantonly killing any who oppose us, who are also helpless as this poor soul was, we show that we are no better than the scum we defend this great kingdom from. I for one hope that some day I can claim dragon status. As an example of this, I defer to the paragon of all that is good in the Gold Dragons, whom we fought beside not so long ago in a terrible war. Valdor would not have killed this man, and so I say any who would do so, show themselves as evil, and I oppose evil in all its forms." Milo pitches Bertram's rope back to him with a grateful nod, though he holds his gaze steady upon any who would meet it.
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