DM Jan Friday September 1st, 2006 12:15:41 PM
Borden's second in command, Birk, still has his sword half drawn, and a bad facial tick is playing havoc with his composure. "These are enemies of Izen!" he barks in orcish. Borden grins, displaying a pair of mean-looking tusks. "Tell me something I don't know. Now, you have your orders. Let's show these enemies of Izen the proper way to behave."
Birks slams his sword into his scabbard. The other orcs follow suit, and they start to move, getting their supplies, tying up the prisoners, seeing to their horses. They occasionally glance with mistrust at Milo, Cori, Bertram, Lian - these strangers in their midst, but that is the current extent of their hostility.
Dahlia detects no hostile body language on the Ga'alian clerics. If anything, they seem somewhat bemused.
Standing an imposing 7 ft tall, Borden turns his attention to Valdor, K'Nara, and Brother Michael, and switches to a clipped but perfectly acceptable common. He raises a long, muscular arm and points out to the east.
"You see that? That is Central Izen. That is our land. It is no longer a proving ground for senseless groups of adventurers from foreign places, seeking to hone their craft and put notches on their belts. My name is Borden. I am the protector and defender of our people. Marteaus abandoned us for Godhood, and in doing so left us a final test. Be picked off by the likes of you - or become a solidified nation that can protect its borders. Be warned. We are no longer your sport.
"Now, if you'll excuse me, I have things to see to. If you're joining us, be ready to move in the next quarter hour."
He taps Gunther on the shoulder before he moves away. "As for you - you're our liaison."
The Aisildurians glance at one another, then bow. "Very well, brothers. We had better look to our own supplies and provisions," says the tallest. And to the assembled Talons/Platinums - "We look forward to journeying with you. I am Brother Michael, and my companions here are Brother Tyne, and brother Tull."
The half orc staff - Eric, Jon and Nyle have been staring at Ve Mundr's carpet and are quite excited about it.
At the gate, the four orcs still on horseback make a defiant show of putting their weapons away. Mordrid, Falin, Ingrge, Nick and Olana will note that the elves appear to have deployed pretty well. Not brilliantly, but considering the circumstances...
Inside the tavern, Mavis, who's been watching through the window with the two elven travelers and Aeralia, gives a sigh of relief. "Anyone want a drink?" she asks. "I know I'm getting one."
Then, up in the sky, Amarth spots it first - a heavily loaded wagon lurching along the road from the east, with the word CATACOMBS painted on the canopy. They have parcels for quite a few of the adventurers, along with two scrolls - one for Valdor from Sturtavent, and one for Cori from the Star Tower.
Gunther's cat is currently down by the river, chowing down on what's left of a black crow.
Lian Friday September 1st, 2006 12:34:44 PM
Lian holds a hard glare with a couple of orcs as they glance his way. He doesn't blink.
Mordrid Friday September 1st, 2006 1:20:27 PM
Mordrid lowers his bow, and nods in respect to Bordon. The ranger is very impressed with the wisdom of the orc leader, and his bravery. Plus the words that he speaks are true. Every human and demi-human in the Wold deserves a place to call home; a sovereign nation. This orc was obviously strong enough for the job, and restrained enough to keep it.
He looks left and right at the elves before dismounting, "what better way to be free of Parnoth forever? How can he extort you if there is peace with the south?"
Once dismounted the ranger will walk directly toward Bordon. Stopping short of the orc leader he offers a hand, "I am Mordrid, the Bounty Hunter of Osto. You have my respect."
Mordrid's hand remains extended until its received in Bordon's hand.
Falin Friday September 1st, 2006 3:43:33 PM
Motioning with his hands he has the elves form back up behind him in their groups. He will turn to the captains and tell them to keep an eyes on their teasm and make sure they all had provisions. If any of them require anything now is the time to bring it up.
Brother Bertram Friday September 1st, 2006 4:27:47 PM
Bertram does nothing but awaits a sign from Valdor to act. He quickly falls into his role and keeps an eye out for problems. His eyes widen as he sees the heavily laden wagon approaching.
Valdor Friday September 1st, 2006 5:27:19 PM
Valdor's eyes flash red for a second when Gunther moves into his way. He wasn't planning an attack, but was prepared in case something bad happened. He listens to the big orc and says,"I have never had an issue with any race as a whole, but what actions groups of that race perform. As you can see by the presence of our companion who is very dear to us(he motions towards Cori), we don't pre-judge based upon your race, but your actions. Your words ring true to me, and I will spread the word to any adventurers I hear about.
Interesting thought Borden, we witnessed a vision from an extremely powerful mage and you were a part of it. That's why we came here. This Iron Fist is ruled by a huge black dragon, to our understanding, and he has much ambition to rule this land...an others. I believe this dragon is the main enemy of us all, including Ailsidur. If our source is correct, and I believe it is, he will be working with others to expand his sphere of control, which would include Izen. Borden, your plans are great, but may be destroyed before you see them come to pass.
You have nothing to fear from us, unless we are attacked first. I hope your men are as disciplined as they appear. We will need them when we face this dragon, along with the elves we've brought from Culverwood and all of us.
Weird, but we have orcs, elves, half elves, drow, halflings, humans and a dwarf. A most unusual combination. It must be a sign, I think."
K'Nara Friday September 1st, 2006 6:22:01 PM
The chestnut-maned woman's hand falls away from the pommel of her sword. She's satisfied that cooler heads will prevail.
"Shall we actually have a meal first, or what...?" K'Nara asks Valdor with a bit of a grin.
Corialote and Amarth Friday September 1st, 2006 8:13:02 PM
Hearing a call for her she moves to the wagon that is coming in. Must be news from the Star Mage Guild to be delivered out here. After getting her parchments she will move off to the best place to read them over.
Cori heads towards the inn doors, seeing no reason to hang around. She slips back inside to see if her food is still there and maybe get a refill upon her tea. "Yes something settling would be nice about now." Amarth comes down just as she is about to duck in the doors, to settle upon her shoulder. His head cocked to the side he looks at her. "Mistress, what is this feeling that sends twinges through us when the reigns of power are presented?" He seems as concerned as he is interested in it. He wonders how his life would change if his Mistress was to take up those reigns and that power.
"I have no idea Amarth...I do know that it is something from our time near the pit...something from that evil...I have known evil and I can taste it every time it appears." She looks to the barmaid and smiles. "Could I get more of that tea and a refill on that order from earlier." Despite the way she eats she never gains a pound...the priviledges of being a mage.
SPELLS 0th(4): detect magic(2), dancing lights(2) 1st(7): grease(2), magic missile(2), disguise self(2) 2nd(7): web(2), mirror image(2), blur(2), resist energy(fire) 3rd(7): hold person(3), major image(2), haste(2) 4th(6): stoneskin(3), wall of fire(2), mass enlarge person 5th(3): cone of cold(2), passwall 6th(6): greater dispel magic(2), shadow walk(2), mass bear's endurance, chain lightning 7th(6): summon monster VII(2), mass hold person, prismatic spray(2), reverse gravity 8th(4): summon monster VIII(2), polar ray(2) 9th(4): teleportation circle*, time stop, summon monster IX * used spell
Updated by JimW for the Catacombs wagon and message scrolls for her. Missed that with your post Jan...sorry.
Gunther Saturday September 2nd, 2006 12:36:17 AM
The warrior beams as he is named liasion. To be so close to a truely great orc...it was a dream come true. A nation all of their own...truely it was a vision worth fighting for. Suddenly the mission doesn't seem so bad. A nice long march with his brothers and K'nara! Shoot...this was starting to look more and more like a day dream. He could only hope that for the first few days maybe they could enjoy some good orc cooking....like fried ochres and toasted dire rat. And oh what he would give for some centipede stew right about now. His stomach gurgling in anticipation, Gunther looks over at K'nara...until he sees the Catacombs wagon. Making a dash for it, he gathers his new purchases and begins sorting a few things out. Gunther gathers the Talons. "I have some gifts for you. Here...everyvon take two of dese...dere Cure Moderate Vounds. I bought enough for each of you to have 2 each." After the potions are distributed, Gunther pulls K'nara aside and pulls a small backpack from his package. "Dis is for you Miss K'nara. I heard you talking about dat Haversack tingy and so I got you von. I hope you like it." (OOC: Hewards Handy Haversack).
Valdor Saturday September 2nd, 2006 12:57:26 PM
Valdor watches Gunther closely. He cuts his eyes toward K'Nara as she speaks, then back to Gunther, then back again. He looks confused. He knows she cares for him and he for her, but to see him so enamored with an orc...
He nods to her and turns to accept his delivery and reads it silently.
Aeralia Saturday September 2nd, 2006 1:47:10 PM
"Hmm, the Platinum Dragons, Emerald Talons, a squadron of elves from Culverwood, now some priests of Ga'al, and a band of orcs," Aeralia wonders outloud to herself as she exits the tavern and heads out onto the landing. "Still doesn't explain why I'm here...," she sighes to herself, then turns and scans to see what everyone else is doing outside.
"I wonder if they think that way about me, they seemed fairly reluctant to have me along as well, if it weren't for that vision," she mumbled to no one inparticular, lazily strolling down the stairs. She had seem the reluctance, even almost hatred in some of her fellow travellers in regards to these 'new recruits', so it certainly knocked her self esteem down a few notches, to be included only because of the same reason as them.
Glancing about once more at the bottom of the stairs, she sighes once again, and starts to head off to one side where she could be out of the way, and not bother anyone. "Wheres Terrin when I need him," she grumbles to herself, looking about gloomily.
She'll take her things from the Catacombs when they come around to her, storing them slowly, and readjusting some of her gear.
Ingrgre / Dahlia Saturday September 2nd, 2006 4:03:04 PM
Ingrge sighs and releases the tension of his drawn arrow as weapons are sheathed, he so wanted to drill that arrow into the middle of the smug Gaalian that he could taste the bitterness of the disapointment. The bad taste turned absolutely rancid when he realized they were ALL going to be travelling together.
**** The nausea finally subsiding a bit, the little halfling almost succumbs to the urge to step out and stare the Gallians straight in their eyes and see them squirm a bit before becoming statues, but she bides her time knowing that there is no way they weren't going to betray the group at some point and she would be waiting.
Paranoid plan in place, Dahlia remains hidden, and in fact activates her wand to go invisible. She might have to travel with those priests, but they didn't need to know it and there was no way she was going to let them get near Father Nick.
Lian Sunday September 3rd, 2006 10:32:36 AM
The monk takes his gaze from the orcs and shift it to the clerics, knowing now that the orcs are on a GOOD mission. %$#%^! Ga'alans.
"Knara, I really think Aeralia should be here too. She really doesn't seem to be too happy and if we give her something to work on, like a battle song or something. She won't leave then... I mean... she feel more like she's being of use to us." He whispers to the red head.
Ve Mundr Sunday September 3rd, 2006 1:50:06 PM
Ve gives the four a passing glance, nothing of interest, more of an acknowlegdement of their presence and nothing more. The orc in charge, this Borden, an intersting one to say the least. Ve was not sure how he felt about any of it. An orc Nation if it came to pass would complicate things considerably in the area and since Valdor brought it up, The cleric of Domi moves with purpose to Borden and the group, "What are the intentions to those men you are taking and under what authority do you get to claim them?"
Valdor d20=16 Monday September 4th, 2006 12:26:49 AM
Valdor is heading back inside, ready to restart his conversation with Cori when he notices the new friend of the Talons looking downcast. The first adventure is always crucial, the large warrior knows. Although he is ready for a meal, he catches up to her, placing a hand on her shoulder.
He says,"You did well a few minutes back. I was impressed with your spell selection and location of your spell. He would have escaped and our coming would be announced too soon. I know it's difficult to begin adventuring with a new group, but you will fit in fine. Remove any self doubt you have and be confident. You deserve to be here as much as I do...as much as anyone who would protect their homeland against evil."
With that, he smiles reassuringly and heads off to find Cori.
Nick Monday September 4th, 2006 1:14:59 AM
Nick dismounts and walks his horse into the yard. He tries not to get all preoccupied with the Ga'al clerics. Maybe I should just bite the bullet, walk over there, say hello, and that would be that. Maybe they wouldn't recognize me anyway, now I've aged. Ha! maybe Ga'al's changed his mind, now I'm an old codger.
If Nick's path crosses with the Aisildurian's, he'll be polite, nod his head, then get on with other business, like finding out what 'the plan' was.
Olana Monday September 4th, 2006 1:19:41 AM
Olana glares at the orcs on horseback, but nevertheless slips her arrow back in it's quiver.
She walks directly over to K'nara. "How soon do we move? she asks their leader.
Milo, where are you?
DM Jan - The Labor Day Post Monday September 4th, 2006 2:29:25 AM
Borden shakes Mordrid's hand firmly. He has a puzzled look on his face. Perhaps this was not quite the reaction he was expecting.
Valdor's explanation of the vision makes his broad forehead pucker into a frown. "A dragon? And a black one?" Grunt. "We know tales of the red one, and know of the green one to the north, but a black one... " Snort. "As for discipline, my people are scattered. A few stray clans do not have... how can I say... our plans are difficult for them to comprehand. Unity will be a struggle. It is they who the Iron Fist has lured away, no doubt with a promise of a few simple pleasures -" he shrugs "- food, killing. Change will come, but in some places it will be bloody and slow. Hmph, but this dragon. Now the Iron Fist has a face."
Birk is all business in the yard, barking orders in orcish and calling his men all the course names under the sun and a few more besides. "Better get your people to move fast if they're to come with us," he says to Gunther.
Ve brings up what turns out to be a valid point about the prisoners. The orc leader grins. "They tried to kill me. I suspect they do this for the Iron Fist. If I don't exist, they can draw more of my people into their fight. I was going to have them questioned. Maybe they know where this dragon is, or where all the recruits are being sent. Are you squeamish about how they might be questioned? I thought that if we pulled the legs off one of them, then the others would talk. If you can get answers out of them another way, then please, do so."
Elders Ne'thrin and Feld'he, and their younger female counterparts Er'eth and Al'thra gather around Falin. The two elven men are extremely wary of the orcs and express their misgivings. Long traditions colour their thoughts. It is left to the girls to be a little more practical. "I think it would be a good idea to top up our food and water supply," says Er'eth. "Do we know where we're going?"
The catacombs wagon unloads, then sets off south for Dirt City and Aisildur, laden with parcels for yet more adventurers.
It becomes fairly obvious to everyone gathered in the yard, that the orcs mean to move out as quickly as possible. Eric, Nyle and Jon (or Mavis inside the tavern) are the ones to ask for any further supplies.
The Brothers are asking Eric if they can purchase sandwiches for the journey ahead.
In the body of Cori's message scroll - ...blah... blah... blah... just returned from Osto. A bloody business. The creature is dead, the abominable wound in the fabric of the Wold it created has been sealed. Four wizards dead, five more are suffering from some kind of mental confusion. The dead will be remembered, those suffering will be cared for... blah... blah... blah...
Valdor's message scroll - My friend, I have just received news from the Star Tower. It appears that this creature in Osto was a terror indeed. It has been slain at the cost of some of the Star Tower mages' lives. Apparently it could have been so much worse. Inform your team that without their efforts, this beast could have wreaked catastrophic damage to our world. Sturtavent
Posting Report For Monday September 4th, 2006 8:02:40 AM
Game # 1 The Platinum Dragons The week of Aug 28,2006
Nams...MTWTF...Missed DM Jan..XXXXX Valdore.X2XXXS Mordrid.OXXXX...1 Fr.Nick.XOXXO...2 Dahlia..OXOXOS..3 VE Mont.XXXXO...1 Carealot.XXXXX
ADM Ceil..No problem Here.
----------------------------
Poasting Reports for Game # 3 Emieral Talons For week of Aug 28,2006
Name...MTWTF...Miss DMDonna.OOOOO... DM Jan makes all the posting in this Board. Lian....XXXXXS Farlin..XXOXX....1 Milo....XXXOO....2 Olana...XXXXO....1 Gunther.XXXXX K'nara..XXXX2 Bro.Bertram.XXOXX..1 Aeralia.OXOXOS...3
Adm Ceil posting for Adm Jay, No Problems for a start of a holiday Week End.
Lian Monday September 4th, 2006 10:12:49 AM
The monk moves in beside Valdor. His demeanor has switched from hard to.... less hard. He's still tense that the Ga'alan clerics are still around.
"Friend Valdor, this man's plan (gestures to the orc leader) is indeed an admirable one. I would think that unity is important for any people and for those that wish a solid nation. I personally would like to see someone of your stature lead a fledgling nation like the New Izen." The elf smiles for the first time in awhile.
"How do you plan on spreading the word of what you are planning with Izen?" He addresses Borden.
Falin Monday September 4th, 2006 2:52:06 PM
Falin listens to the concerns of all involved and tells the captains, "Do not be hasty in your prejudgements of people based on their race. Look at those I travel with." He motions at the other Talons located around the area. "We are not the same, but each of us has a weakness that is offset by someone elses strength." He leans in closer to the four and says with a smile, "But we don't just trust blindly."
"I want Ne'thrin and Er'eth to make sure the other elves will be ready for a long march. I do not know where we will be going, but I expect it will be rough."
He turns to Feld'he and Al'thra and says, "I would like you two to make an inventory of what the elves have for food and make sure we get enough for us. If there are any special items we might need, like rope and such make a list of those and we will see about getting those too."
Brother Bertram Monday September 4th, 2006 8:43:22 PM
Bertram keeps an eye out for any signs of impending trouble and repacks his new purchases quickly. He barely takes time to enjoy the fact they have arrived as everyone is in a rush.
Corialote and Amarth Monday September 4th, 2006 9:19:01 PM
A muscle twitches in Cori's face as she reads the letter over from the Guild. She wonders how many of the mages that were killed she knew...how many had been friends. Looking up as Valdor approaches the table she shakes her head. "I suppose you got the same news." She flips the parchment across the table for him to read. "Some lost and confused by that evil that we battled in the pit...friends I would suppose...and we most likely have been feeling the taint as well." Her eyes flick to Valdor as she gives him a sly smile. "I know that I have felt the touch of evil...it twists sometimes in my guts like a knife...pushing me to take my darkest desires." She does not explain further as to some it would be apparent what would be her desire....or maybe it would not be.
Once the refill on the food arrives she will take the time to devour every last drop of food. Passing off pieces of bread and other delicacies to Amarth who is as hungry as she is.
SPELLS 0th(4): detect magic(2), dancing lights(2) 1st(7): grease(2), magic missile(2), disguise self(2) 2nd(7): web(2), mirror image(2), blur(2), resist energy(fire) 3rd(7): hold person(3), major image(2), haste(2) 4th(6): stoneskin(3), wall of fire(2), mass enlarge person 5th(3): cone of cold(2), passwall 6th(6): greater dispel magic(2), shadow walk(2), mass bear's endurance, chain lightning 7th(6): summon monster VII(2), mass hold person, prismatic spray(2), reverse gravity 8th(4): summon monster VIII(2), polar ray(2) 9th(4): teleportation circle*, time stop, summon monster IX * used spell
Gunther Monday September 4th, 2006 10:01:54 PM
The warrior looks over at K'nara. "Do you tink ve have enough supplies for a long journey? If not, it looks like ve need to get it now." Lowering his voice, he looks over at Falin and the elves. "And you should probably tell Falin to keep de elves far avay from de orcs...especially ven ve camp. De von't mix vell."
Valdor Monday September 4th, 2006 11:33:01 PM
Valdor smiles and tells Lian and Falin,"You are both correct. Unfortunately there are many who are judged by the actions of those with the same heritage. It's what's inside that matters and this is the first orc I've seen with any desire other than a fight or his next meal. I have no problem with a nation that has strong leadership and wants peace and commerce. However, he is the exception rather than the rule, I fear. But, only time will tell on that. The immediate threat is the dragon and this Iron Fist."
He pats Mordrid on the back in greeting and heads inside. He nods grimly to Cori and says,"Yes, I know the feeling. I'm sure it's different than yours, but the same as well. I hope they weren't your friends."
He eats sparingly, his appetite not much with today's actions. He says suddenly,"Well, at least I don't have to cough anymore."
Milo d20+25=35 d20+23=43 Tuesday September 5th, 2006 1:09:39 AM
Happy to see that things have calmed down, Milo recognizes a friendly face in his beloved Olana, and silently makes his way to her side unseen. He announces his presence with a quick pinch from behind, and a with a chortle grins, "Greetings beloved. All is quiet here... nothing but a few friendly orcs... if you can imagine such a thing." The halfling's eyes are a'twinkle. (OOC: Hide DC 35, Move Silently DC 43)
Mordrid Tuesday September 5th, 2006 9:26:13 AM
Mordrid follows Valdor inside, "No one get too comfortable. Grab some food and lets roll."
The ranger heads toward the bar, as he removes an empty havorsac from his satchel; snapping it into shape.
"Bar keep... four loves of bread, 5 pounds of salted ham, and a brick of cheese," he pushes a gold piece forward.
Once his havorsac is loaded, the ranger is out the door, down the steps and next to his black mare; where he secures the havorsac. Making sure his horse is watered and fed, he walks her by the reigns out to the gate.
Knowing it's going to be an outdoors journey, the ranger ponders summoning an animal companion; even though the ranger is usually against putting creatures in harms way.
Ve Mundr Tuesday September 5th, 2006 10:28:32 AM
The cleric meets the orcs grin with no outward expression, and he has no plans of falling into the infantile trap of words Borden laid out. It was beneath him and likely Borden as well, but the orc probably fell that direction out of habit than plan. Ve picks the point and answers.
"Perhaps they had cause to. What happens to those living inn Izen who do not wish to become part of Borden's grand plan? It sounds as if The Iron Fist and you are trying to achieve the smae goal, unity of Izen. It has been tried before several times and currently I see no difference in possible a tyranical rule of the Iron Fist and the possible tyrannical rule of you."
Knowing a possible arguement to his statements and questions Ve continues, "Showing restraint on you part and that of your men to me says you have the ability to know when you are overmatched and surrounded. A military descision of self preservation and nothing more."
Lian Tuesday September 5th, 2006 11:05:51 AM
"Agreed." Nods the monk. "The dragon even more than the Fist I think. Cut off the head and the snake dies." Then he thinks a moment. "But often times the snake thrashes about a bit prior to expiring... I guess the Fist are just as important." He smirks. "Well, what now? Are we trying a two pronged attack? One group dealing with the Black and the other group dealing with the Fist? Or do you think that they are, at this moment, moving for an assault?" The Hand of Domi looks expectantly at Valdor. He barely remembers that he isn't a Dragon yet and almost loses himself in the enthusiasm. "My apologies Valdor." He then goes silent.
Mordrid Tuesday September 5th, 2006 2:42:53 PM
As Mordrid addresses his mare's barding, arranges the weight of various packs, and secures buckles; he listens closely to Ve's confrontation with Bordon. Mordrid can't help but to feel slightly annoyed. Ve seems willing to take on each and every battle; a tiresome fate the ranger thinks.
Olana Tuesday September 5th, 2006 6:09:18 PM
Olana bites back a startled yelp as Milo announces his presence. She narrows her eyes in mock annoyance and then smiles. "Friendly orcs, my muscular left bicep," she mutters, pausing to glower suitably at a passing orc. "C'mon we'd better get some supplies before they take it all."
Nick Tuesday September 5th, 2006 6:13:33 PM
Entering the yard, Nick passes by Brother Bertram. "Looks like it's the wilds of Izen for us then," he says by way of conversation, before seeing Eric about refilling waterskins and buying a few non-perishable eats for the journey.
DM Jan Tuesday September 5th, 2006 6:56:11 PM
During the next 15 to 20 minutes, the staff of the Tears of the Wood are kept busy. The stable hands make repairs to shoes, tack and saddles; Eric and Nyle disembowel the stores for bread, cheese, ham, other cured meats, and hand over small burlap bags of nuts, carrots, onions, apples, plums and parsnips. Jon gets into some heavy negotiation with the orcs over four portable barrels of ale. Rope, torches and blankets are to be had if needed.
Falin gets a report from his captains - everyone is ready to go, and there's a short shopping list - rope, and torches. Feld'he tells him quietly. "I hear there is much underground in central Izen. Caves, bored into the limestone by the rains."
Borden is silent for a few beats after listening to Ve Mundr. Then he snorts, as if struggling with blocked sinuses. If Gunther is there to see it, he'll recognize the gesture of being somewhat perplexed. Then the big orc rests his eyes on Ve's Domi symbol. "Ah. A cleric. No sense of humour. It is this way down in Dirt City also. As for the Iron Fist wanting Izen - " he shakes his massive head - " No. The trail of these *&%$s appears to lead to the coast. Maybe it's your land they want, but I'll be ^#$%@ if they're going to use my people to do their dirty work. And there's something else." He points at the prisoners, now tied together ready for a march. "Ask them why the Iron Fist needs so much wood."
To Lian he replies. "The word has been spread, Little Elf-with-no-Weapons, now all that remains is for the idea of unity to sink in. That takes wisdom. Tell me, are all your people wise, elf?"
At some point it becomes apparent that it's time to move. The orcs are on horseback and will want to ride point. The Aisildurians are on foot, and will probably be in the middle. I need to know who's on point, who's scouting ahead, who's in the middle, who's guarding the rear. And where that cat and that bird are. ;)
Mordrid Tuesday September 5th, 2006 7:48:32 PM
[Mordrid will volunteer to be an out-rider.]
Milo Tuesday September 5th, 2006 9:03:45 PM
Milo salutes Olana with a grin, "Yes Ma'am!" OOC: Milo would like to scout ahead... not far from Olana.
Dahlia / Ingrge Tuesday September 5th, 2006 9:13:54 PM
Dahlia will shadow the Gallians making sure she stays as hidden as possible.
*****
Ingrge will in all likelihood stay some where toward the front of the middle perhaps next to Valdor and K'nara.
Corialote and Amarth Tuesday September 5th, 2006 10:37:22 PM
Cori does not let the need for haste stop her from getting warm food and being seated to eat it. Glancing to Valdor she shakes her head. "I am going to finish this meal...here at this table." He hands over a piece of bread to Amarth so that he can have a little bit more to eat. "This maybe the time that the Talons must prove themselves though I will be along shortly as I am not asking anyone to wait for me." She sips her tea and sighs as she takes the time to relax.
Amarth munches on his piece of bread, for once quiet about the thoughts of his Mistress. He is more than happy to have some time to relax as well.
SPELLS 0th(4): detect magic(2), dancing lights(2) 1st(7): grease(2), magic missile(2), disguise self(2) 2nd(7): web(2), mirror image(2), blur(2), resist energy(fire) 3rd(7): hold person(3), major image(2), haste(2) 4th(6): stoneskin(3), wall of fire(2), mass enlarge person 5th(3): cone of cold(2), passwall 6th(6): greater dispel magic(2), shadow walk(2), mass bear's endurance, chain lightning 7th(6): summon monster VII(2), mass hold person, prismatic spray(2), reverse gravity 8th(4): summon monster VIII(2), polar ray(2) 9th(4): teleportation circle*, time stop, summon monster IX * used spell
Valdor Tuesday September 5th, 2006 11:34:37 PM
Valdor pats Lian's shoulder and replies,"Don't be too excited about either one my friend. Many will die, probably on both sides, especially with the dragon. I have a feeling we'll get one then the other, but it could be both together. Now, get ready to go, I'll be along shortly."
When he finally settles down at the table with Cori and Mordrid comes by, Valdor says,"We'll catch up to you all. Cori's going to take her time, and I don't think she should be left by herself. You know me, I don't like to split up the party."
He has a grin on his face and watches Mordrid's face. He takes a long draw on his tea and says,"Bartender, I need a large ale before we go."
Gunther Wednesday September 6th, 2006 12:26:54 AM
Gunther looks over at Ve with barely disguised loathing. For a long time he had thought that hatred and bigotry had just been an orc trait. But the behavior of this hero proved to him that blind ignorance and distrust could be universal. Where did he get off? I'd like to see him try and scratch a living off of rats and ochres while humans and elves and dwarfs and other "heros" come in and hunt you for fun. And they wonder why the orcs would flock to a leader like Borden...one who promised them freedom and a land of their own. Hmmph!! They need look no further than their own skins! Frustrated with the politics, Gunther decides to go and look after his kitty. As a side thought, he turns to Borden. "Sir, I have a large cat traveling with me. She is a friend and a powerful warrior. Please tell the men to stay away from her if they see her."
Brother Bertram Wednesday September 6th, 2006 4:29:29 AM
Bertram prepares and is ready to go, his mind awhirl with all that has happened so suddenly. He cant help but wonder what next... He double checks his stores, rope isnt a problem, and light if need be the gods can supply.
Mordrid Wednesday September 6th, 2006 9:49:22 AM
After running into Valdor on his way out, the ranger frowns beneath his mustache.
"Don't dodle too long. We may need your help sooner than later. It's going to be hell keeping the peace in this caravan."
BACK OUTSIDE: The ranger mounts up. 'Again the orc has shown restraint.'
Once mounted, Mordrid brings his horse around to face south. He raises his head to the sky and tries to make sense of the weather. (Nature sense).
He then spots the elven captains and shouts for them to rally up, and bring their men together, on him.
He trots up to an orc and says in broken orcish, "who is your sergeant?"
After getting an answer, he will attempt to get organized with their sub-leader; at least enough to move out together.
Leading his horse back to point again, he signals K'nara with a gesture. She will understand the indication that she is in charge; 'moving out on your command.'
Ve Mundr d20+16=35 Wednesday September 6th, 2006 11:53:10 AM
Ve remains straight faced, "Ah humor." He says with the slight uplifting of his head. "I have heard about that." His brow furrows as if deep in thought. "Perhaps upon my return to temple I shall study it more at length. But that will have to wait." As the flurry of activity picks up Ve glances about and in doing so catches the look of Gunther. The man would have to just be mad for the moment and if his image of Ve was diminished so be it, but the cleric did not have the luxury of setting him straight to his motivations. A fleet was being constructed on the coast and that fleet would have a target that did not reside here. The grand relations to be built between orc and man would have to wait. Ve no sooner trusted Borden than he did any other single being he knew little or nothing of. Just as he did not put a blanket of hatred across an entire race he did not sling a blanket of trust at everyone who did not attack on sight. It made little difference to Ve that Borden was orc, or bugbear or giant. He knew little of the man and what he did know was mixed. Ve looks to the would be prisoners and remarks, "I already know why they need wood and I also know you did not answer my question, but I did not expect you to." Ve starts to move off to where the rear guard will form up. As he moves away, "Gunther, do not jump to quickly to conclusions, the question was just that, a question, to be asked of anyone who is seeking to create a nation." Ve will take a position at the rear upon the carpet about 4 feet off the ground to be level with the riders. [sense Motive 35]
Aeralia Wednesday September 6th, 2006 12:21:27 PM
Aeralia will gather supplies reluctantly as well, if there is anything she can help with. Otherwise she will wait, silent and out of the way, until the group heads out.
Lian Wednesday September 6th, 2006 1:11:06 PM
The monk looks at the orc. "I can't speak for my whole race, and I won't. There are many type in many races." He says plainly. "As for being the 'Little Elf-with-no-Weapons', that is not exactly correct. I am a brawler of sorts, I use my body as a weapon." He smiles impishly. "Care for a demostration?"
Falin Wednesday September 6th, 2006 3:17:14 PM
Falin ensures the elves get what they need and then forms up next to them when Mordrid calls for the elves.
K'Nara Wednesday September 6th, 2006 6:49:13 PM (OOC: sorry about the non-posting--had a bit of a medical flare-up sidelined me for a while...but I'm back now.)
K'Nara quickly transferred all her belongings from her regular backpack to the Haversack that Gunther had gifted her, as well as noting the various bits of conversation floating about. As soon as she has the opportunity to do so, she finds Olana and Milo and speaks to them in a low voice meant for their ears only:
"I want you two to keep an especial eye on the clerics of Ga'al." she instructs them. "The Dragons are distrustful of them--and I'm sure you remember how deucedly hard it was to fight the Aisilduran contingent in that Arena match. I have only heard rumors of them, though, and I have no idea what their deity's code is supposed to include. Keep them in your sights and sound off if they do anything at all suspicious."
Once more, K'Nara turns over Poki (her horse) to Lian, that he may ride with Aeralia.
"I wouldn't worry overmuch about the sorceress, Lian." the leader of the Talons assures the monk. "I bet that she's having 'first time jitters'...wondering if she's meant to be in a group like ours. From what I've seen of her conduct so far, the answer (in my opinion) is a big, fat 'YES'...but it's something that she has to acknowledge for herself. I'll be sure to reinforce that answer, though."
To Aeralia, the red-headed blade singer nods and smiles, agreeing with Valdor's assessment.
"Valdor has the way of it, Aeralia." K'Nara says firmly. "You are doing just fine--and using your wits! You'll go far in the Wold, I'm sure...and I can only hope that you choose to remain with us, because we can use all the wit we can get!"
Milo Wednesday September 6th, 2006 9:46:54 PM
Milo's smile turns somber at K'nara's request, and the halfling replies in equally low tones, "No problem, I can keep an eye on the priest, and if he grows too bold..." A dangerous glint in the halfling rogue's eye finishes his sentence for him.
Olana Wednesday September 6th, 2006 11:42:18 PM
Olana lets out a long sigh and glances toward the Aisildurians. Their chests - all that wriggling about going inside there. "Okay," she says in a matter of fact way.
Nick Wednesday September 6th, 2006 11:45:38 PM
"What are Valdor and Cori up to?" Nick asks Mordrid, followed by "Or shouldn't I ask?"
It's his usual habit to ride near the centre of the party, but on this occasion a lot will depend on where the Ga'al clerics are.
Gunther Thursday September 7th, 2006 1:14:56 AM
The warrior looks over at Ve with annoyance. There were a lot of retorts that came to mind, but for the moment, he holds his tongue out of respect for K'nara. No need to have the group appear to be de-unified in front of outsiders. He heads over to his kitty and prepares to head out with her, glad that he can finally talk with her thanks to the magic of his wreathes.
DM Jan Thursday September 7th, 2006 2:19:12 AM
THREE DAYS LATER - TIME = LATE EVENING, CENTRAL IZEN
On horseback, the orcs have set a hard pace. The elves and those members of the Talons and the Platinums who are on foot are getting their second wind and, after this and the two days march out of Emerald, are getting well conditioned to life on the move.
The ground has been hard, the weather a mixture of clouds and rain, and it's only now that the dread influence of Mount Bone, passed by the previous evening, is beginning to fade.
The night camps have been basic and boisterous affairs, with the orcs expending surplus energy by getting into seemingly spontaneous bouts of wrestling and fisticuffs. Anyone crazy enough to join in has their fair share of bruises and loose teeth.
Speaking of bruises and loose teeth, one of the prisoners admits to the building of boats, as Ve suspected.
The caravan trail has been fairly easy to follow. No attempt at stealth.
The Brothers Michael, Tyne and Tull have been polite and courteous throughout, attempting to mediate whenever flareups occur between orc and non-orc. Birk has made it plain on day one to Mordrid that he did not trust him. It has made scouting difficult. Everyone has felt a certain tension, to some extent, so far on the journey.
And now, as the prospect of another night's mayhem looms on the horizon, one of the orc scouts returns with news of the sighting of the caravan. Any Talon/Platinums in the scouting party will also have noted the torches of the caravan ahead - three wagons, quite a few men and horses, setting up camp for the night about half a mile south east on the trail.
Ve Mundr Thursday September 7th, 2006 8:59:08 AM
Ve trials the large group on his carpet and has been going over the trail and why they came to Izen in the first place and such. Valdor set them with Borden and his, why? The cleric really had no idea. True they wanted to find him and they did, but to follow him as he chased aftera caravan whom legitemately purchased a lot of horses? It just didn't add up for him. Borden was obviously a nuetral party to the civilizied lands about where Borden wishes to forge his empire. He was even an opoponent of the Iron Fist. An organization they still knew litttle about, bt what they did know was that the Iron Fist was in the opposite direction on the coast construction an invasion fleet. So again the cleric ends up with why pursue a bleeding caravan? Just to pal with Borden? Seemed unecessary at best, but Valdor did not get to be Valdor by not having a plan or making intelliegent moves, so Ve would keep his teeth together. Fleet would not be ready for some time so they had time.
News of the caravan perks the clerics interest and heightens his apprehension. Orcs could see just fine in the dark and a half mile was plenty close enough. Likely they would be moving on the wagons very soon and Ve was doughtful he would like the outcome, but he would be ready.
Into his Earpiece, "Should we be ready then to close this last bit of distance to the wagons?"
Mordrid Thursday September 7th, 2006 10:27:33 AM
Mordrid brings his horse next to Valdor's on the afternoon of day three.
"We now know there's a fleet building on the coast. Although, we do not know who they intend to go up against, As Knights of the Realm I feel it is our duty to let the capitol know what we have seen and heard. Someone must go back and report. Advance notice may save many lives."
As a side note, "You might try asking Bordon what signifigance this carravan has. Wood? was that what I heard?"
Valdor Thursday September 7th, 2006 10:39:13 AM
Valdor replies to Ve,"It's time to have a chat with our new allies."
He goes in search of Borden and asks him to get his lieutenants together for a meeting. He gathers the Plats and Talons together to meet and then says to Borden,"I think it's time to disuss our intentions. While I respect your ambitions and motives, I would know what your intentions are toward this caravan. It's obviuos that you and your people are not simply typical orc marauders set for killing and plunder, but have another goal in mind. Since we have a mutual interest in the outcome of all of this, I would know what you plan to do.
To give you an understanding of ourselves and our intentions, I will tell you our story."
Valdor tells him the story about the visions, leaving out only the names of all the players. He doesn't want it common knowledge that their High Lord Mayor is actually a Gold Dragon. He tells of the gypsy reading to Dahlia and of their decisions along the way.
Once finished he says,"Now you see our reasons for being here. The actions of this Black Dragon will determine the involvement of another Green one, whom we all know too well. We didn't know your place in the vision and weren't sure until now whether you were the enemy or a possible ally. I was a bit angered at the prophecy myself at the title the 'Dragonstone of Nothing', but didn't, and still don't, understand the significance of such a title.
If this caravan is simply recruiting people of all races, I cannot abide in killing and destroying it, just because they have claimed your people as their own. People must be allowed to choose their own path, whether it is ours or not. (He nods towards the clerics) I would know why this Iron Fist is building a fleet of ships, where they plan to expand to and what their ultimate goals are. If you are to become a land unto yourselves, then you will need allies. Trust must be established between nations or there will be constant war. So, build our trust in you and your people and tell me what you know."
Lian d20-1=11 Thursday September 7th, 2006 12:21:09 PM
During the last few days, Lian will make several attempts to find berries (for his goodberry tattoo) and offer them to those who wish to conserve rations. He will also create water and offer small amounts to the group, orcs included.
All the while attempting to make the orcs and especially Aelaria, feel welcome. He plays the flute, though not expertly (perform 11), at dinner and before bed each night (unless it causes tension with the group of orcs).
He offers his services for watch or scouting.
Lian listens again, is about to ask something, but thinks better of it. Concern in on his face.
K'Nara Thursday September 7th, 2006 12:53:10 PM
Present at Valdor's conference with Borden, the blade singer lifts a hand to interrupt the dialogue.
"I would suggest that we try to see for ourselves exactly what this caravan is up to--we have first-class rogues who can get close enough to eavesdrop on the people for a bit...how about we utilize them in an effort to confirm exactly what their agenda happens to be..?"
Falin Thursday September 7th, 2006 2:48:25 PM
Seeming to place the cares of the Elves above his own Falin makes sure he is the last one of the them to bed down each night and the first to awaken each day. He makes sure they are all tending to themselves to ensure no one become injured. He is pleased with the way they have turned out so far and tells this to the captains so they can pass it on to the others.
Falin continues to watch the priests, but more out of morbid curiosity than anything. How is it that they let those things into their chests? What pros could come of that?
Falin goes to the meeting that Valdor calls in order to see what the motives of their new found friends are.
Corialote and Amarth Thursday September 7th, 2006 4:12:07 PM
Cori soon enough finds herself back on the road with the group. As she rides along she goes over her ideas for spells for each day, trying to mix them up and give something useful for non combat situations.
With calling of a meeting to talk about the caravan ahead she listens to some of the ramblings. She has to agree with K'Nara on the idea of sending in scouts and she plans to make it a point to help out there as well. "I can aid in scouting...by helping those that go to stay hidden easily so that they will only need to hide well." Looking to Valor she gives a smile. "I would like to approach the caravan as well...I am interested in purchasing a fine mare if they have one...the boy back has a nice stud for sale and my new business will not take off without a mating pair." She waits to see what is decided and how they will proceed.
Brother Bertram Thursday September 7th, 2006 4:18:12 PM
Bertram joins the others in the meeting. He cant help but shake the feeling that there was something they were missing. Something they desparately needed to know.
Valdor Thursday September 7th, 2006 6:21:12 PM
(OOC:Sorry Scott, we were posting at the same time. I didn't see your post, but brilliant minds think alike.)
Valdor nods at K'Nara and Cori's suggestions, a smile creeping across his face that he tries to mask without success when she mentions 'a mating pair'.
Ingrge / Dahlia d20+25=43 d20+25=39 d20+25=44 d20+25=38 d20+25=42 d20+25=43 d20+25=41 d20+25=36 d20+25=35 d20+25=42 d20+25=30 d20+25=41 d20+25=37 d20+25=39 d20+19=24 d20+19=31 d20+19=24 d20+19=35 d20+19=22 d20+19=22 d20+19=38 Thursday September 7th, 2006 7:06:32 PM
Ingrge havng been riding nearby to Valdor the entire time overhears Mordrids comment about sending a mesage back to someone and speaks up.
"Excuse me, I don't meen to usurp authority but I should be able to send any message you need to send, to whomever you need to send it too, once we get settled and then we don't need to lose personel we might need later.
********
Dahlia
It is somewhere in the early evening when someone realises that they haven't seen Dahlia since the Tavern. Her pony however is fully loaded and following along with the others but it is equally obvious that noone is riding her.
Highlight to display spoiler: {Dahlia has been invisible and staying as close to the Gaalians as possible, since leaving the Inn, without beeing noticed, so that she can overhear what they might be chatting about during the marches and breaks along the way.
Move silently Dc 43,39,44,38,42,43 & 41 Hide DC 36,35,42,30,41,37 & 39 Listen DC 19,31,24,35,22,22 & 38}
Ve Mundr Thursday September 7th, 2006 9:03:14 PM
Ve leans in a bit, "I am sorry I am confused. It is a caravan of men who purchased a large number of horses a few days ago from the stables at the inn we were just at." Ve looks to everyone about, For the love of Domi! We are the Platinum Dragons and the Emerald Talons, renown heroes hundreds of times over across the Wold. With us is Borden, the possible future king is Izen. We should march over and talk to them. If they are the bad guys they will attack and we will destroy them. Then we can get back to the coast and destroy the fleet before it sails. If they are not the bad guys we say our hellos." Ve sits back but then leans forward again, "While I have my mouth open, Why by all that is holy are we keeping company with Ga'al trash?"
Olana Thursday September 7th, 2006 10:23:08 PM
Olana looks at the backs of the Ga'alian clerics as they travel along, with a sour expression on her face. Well, weren't they being the goody two shoes. She was aching for them to do something, or say something - anything that would bring the ire of everyone else down on them.
"They're either clever, and just biding their time," she whispers to Milo during the second night, "or completely stupid."
News of the caravan and the possibility of some sneaking around cheers her up no end.
Nick Thursday September 7th, 2006 10:32:56 PM
All this travel is not doing a thing for Nick's newly acquired old bones. Twice now he's had to cast a minor heal on himself. It has enabled him to appear as robust as he ever was in such situations and therefore, on a practical level, he suspects it won't make any difference to his effectiveness. It was just the principle of the thing. The sheer ignominy of it.
He tries to make himself busy on the trip - healing brawling wounds and avoiding the Ga'alians. So far, so good. Now if he only knew for sure where Dahlia was.
At the meeting - "I don't think it would be a bad idea for a quick look at them before we go in, either," he says. He's also interested in what Borden has to say. of course Ve did have a point, to perhaps just go wading in - but now Nick was old and feeble - well, it was caution all the way.
DM Jan Thursday September 7th, 2006 11:53:24 PM
LATE EVENING - CENTRAL IZEN
Two waxing crescent moons begin to lift over the hills and rise in the sky as everyone gathers for the meeting. The orcs are nervous, twitchy, and on edge, and of course the Ga'alians have invited themselves along as well.
Borden listens to what Valdor has to say and then snorts as he tries to comprehend everything surrounding the visions and prophecies. He then points directly to the south. "There lies Southern Izen and the coast. We do not eat fish. We have no desire to sail boats. The hills and stones on Central Izen are our land, and we know little of the south, other than the families of Dirt City to the south west." Borden's second in command Birk chitters something foul and derogatory when Dirt City is mentioned. Borden continues - "This caravan - is not alone. There have been many in the past months, like these. Traders, we thought. And as with all traders seeking to cross Central Izen, we offered our services as protectors - for a fee. Something they accepted. After all, wild creatures still roam this land." He shrugs. "but the men they hired - our men - did not come home. Four times this has happened, while these wagons continue to roll - carrying wood, horses, provisions, and men from all places. "So. It was my intention to follow this particular caravan. Follow it cautiously to the south, and to see where it leads, and discover what has become of my people. To find them, and bring them back. You talk of choices, and freedom. But many of my people are -" he struggles for a word. "Stupid," growls Birk, ears twitching, his eye tick running wild about his face. Borden sighs.
"Given freedom, and the ability to choose," interrupts brother Michael, his voice a deep purr, "most people invariably make the wrong one. My brothers and I see it all too often outside the divine realm of Aisildur. In our land, followers of the Almighty Ga'al do not need to make the mistakes of wrong choices." He's pointedly ignoring Ve Mundr, but Brother Nyle is looking at the follower of Domi as though he wished the ground would grow teeth and a mouth and swallow the man whole.
For some weird reason, the Ga'alian's raw chests are making Falin feel hungry. Gunther is also suffering from weirdness of a different kind. It's a feeling that seems to be emanating from his wreath, and the panther who's crouched behind a shrub nearby. Odd, but it feels like a warning. Predator in our midst...
"So -" finalizes the orc leader. "Boldness or stealth appear to be OUR choices on this particular matter." As an afterthought to Valdor, he adds - "This Dragonstone. If you are the Dragonstone of something, then maybe the Nothing refers to someone else."
Earlier in the day, Lian has managed to find some wild gooseberries, and a battered shrub containing a scattering of elderberries - meagre pickings after the birds have been and gone.
Dahlia's attention toward the Aisildurian priests has gleaned the following - They're apprehensive about their various traveling companions, genuinely worried about their missing civilians, wondering if any of the others in this group are ripe for conversion - although any missionary endeavors are to take second fiddle to their main task - which appears to run along the same lines as that of the orcs. They see this as a rescue mission.
A slight glow over a distant hill to the south east tells everyone that the caravaners have got their evening fire going.
Aeralia Friday September 8th, 2006 12:52:30 AM
Aeralia continues to remain silent during most of the trip, distracted with her own thoughts. She still didn't feel like she belonged there, even with Lian's attempts, and she still was tring to figure out if she wanted to belong.
These orcan leaders had alot to say that she agreed with, and she was certain that some of her comrades didn't beleive them, or want to beleive them, or even consider beleiving them. She had certainly heard stories and rumors of course, of their grusomeness; but then her childhood, with humans, had shown her the worse side of their world too.
She doesn't offer to go this time, but instead merely listens to what she can catch of the three groups leaders exchange, wondering what was going to happen.
Gunther Friday September 8th, 2006 1:09:32 AM
Not one for politics, Gunther settles in and listens inattentively...until the message from Thaeri. He looks over urgently at K'nara. "I gotta go. Sometings wrong." Bolting out of the meeting he heads toward where he had last seen his kitty and begins to speak in soft low growls. "Thaeri. Where's the predator? Can you show me where it is?"
K'Nara Friday September 8th, 2006 2:24:27 AM
K'Nara barks aloud in a short, sharp sound that very quickly turns into a fit of coughing once Brother Michael makes his assured comment about how followers of Ga'al never make wrong choices.
"Er, um...excuse me..." she gasps between coughs, blinking tears away, thinking all the while of the utterly wrong choices made by the double-quad members in that Arena competition weeks ago.
"I think getting some covert information is the best way to handle this." she says to Valdor. "Sure, we could probably sweep in and kick the butts of everyone in the caravan...but Borden here would like not be able to find out what may have happened to his people, and I know that I, for one, am darn curious as to what in the Wold is this group's agenda."
Ingrge / Dahlia Friday September 8th, 2006 7:08:43 AM
I don't know how smart it would be, but as we are not very well known outside of the Emerald kingdom, except for perhaps Bone Mountain and the arena, maybe the Talons should hire themselves out as protection for THIS caravan while you all follow along. I could fairly easily send back information as it comes through my skills in scrying and the rest of you would be close if we ended up needing assistance.
Highlight to display spoiler: { Jan - Don't forget that Ingrge has permanent see invisibility and arcane sight cast upon his eyes}
*****
Dahlia finds it difficult to believe that the Gaalians are actually being on the level as they seem and while they camp she spends a bit more time trying to gleen what she can. When darkenss comes and everyone is falling asleep, she moves out of the camp and using the earpiece contacts Valdor.
"Hey Dragonstone. Dahlia here. It appears that the Gaalian contingent is being on the level, at least so far. But I don't trust them. I am going to continueto keep watch on them unless you need me for anything else.
Lian d4=1 d4=1 d4=3 Friday September 8th, 2006 7:09:54 AM
Lian makes another valiant attempt to make the newest bard feel welcome. He notices her off, alone again and wanders over. "There are at least two sides to every situation." He retrieves a handful of ratty old berries from his pouch. "Often there is a nasty side." He says pointing to several semi rotting berries amongst the pile. "And a few good one things." He pokes a couple nice berries. "Sometimes we have to leave these good things behind to find the good ones." He casts Goodberry. Sorting out a rotten one, he looks at it. "Some nasty situations often turn out for the best." He eats the rotting berry(a good berry) and tosses aside several nice looking ones. He hands her a goodberry. In hopes that a simple demonstration might sway her, he leaves her to think about her place.
Falin Friday September 8th, 2006 8:03:50 AM
Falin is unable to sit for very long. He gets up and ricks back and forth. What was going on? Falin wonders to himself. He begins to look around for something to munch on. Odd how he was hungry though. His ring of sustenance normally kept him full.
He begins watching the priests closer.
"If we do hire ourselves out who would stick behind with the elves? Or would we bring them with us?" Falin asks.
That night he will have the elves break up into groups and help keep watch over the evening. Each elf will pull watch once through the evening. They are to work on stealth and patience.
Mordrid Friday September 8th, 2006 10:20:13 AM
Pushing the embers around in the camp fire, he listens. He responds first to Ve, "People act differently when they don't know they're being watched. That's why we recon. And fate brought the Ga'alians here. No point getting bent out of shape, at least not at us."
Second, "I seriously doubt the caravan would hire you guys. As Bordon pointed out, they've already hired human mercenaries, and they've probably doled out all the gold they're willing to spend on protection."
When Gunther runs off, the ranger looks strangely at K'nara, then at Valdor.
"Is everything ok?" Standing he draws his sword. The ranger hates night time. It's a rough time of day for a human bowmen. Activating his sword, it begins to glow slightly.
"The horses..." the ranger opens his ears and intuition to the sounds of the group's pack animals.
Brother Bertram Friday September 8th, 2006 1:21:00 PM
Bertram concentrates on the priests when their attention is diverted, wanting to learn as much about them as possible. As long as can pass himself off as a mercenary he will. Any advantage could make a difference if things go wrong. He glances over as Gunther moves quickly from the room.
Ve Mundr d20+16=30 d20+16=31 d20+22=28 Friday September 8th, 2006 1:59:10 PM
The cleric looks to Michael, "Yes the thrice damned deciever makes thier mistakes for them. Puppets to dance upon the strings for another bemusement without care or forethought to their fate. Keep your tongue behind your teeth unless you plan on speaking intelligently and not like a mouthpieced fool." Gunther's sudden departure for the great cat gives Ve a quick pause and he scans the surrouunding area with his darkvision. [Spot 30]
He shifts back to the discussion at hand, "I understand that Mordrid, but until just now I had been given the full impression the caravan had merely purchased horses. It now appears there is a great deal more to it. And K'Nara I was not at all suggesting we move and take them out only an open approach to judge reactions."
As Falin gets more intense on looking at the Ga'alian clerics Ve begins to get a bit concerned. [Sense motive 31] Falin was not precisely acting normal, but despite his knowledge of the Ga'al religion and others around the Wold. [Know 28] he could not put a finger to why.
Perhaps a simple diversion for the Monk would suffice. So Ve will engage him on the point the monk just brought up. "Falin, Correct? I think you are quite right about reminding us of the elves. We certainly need to consider them in this and personally I think we would be far more than the caravan could hire, even if they wished to. So that would mean a split and I for one feel your close work with them recently makes you the perfect choice stay with the elves were taht to be the desicion. Personally I think trying to hire into the caravan not feasible."
Hoping to have engaged eye contact with Falin, Ve looks back across all the others, "talking throught it, and having ALL the information we might I endorse the scouting of the Caravan.
Lian Friday September 8th, 2006 2:46:33 PM
Something was nagging in the back of Lian's mind. The last group member that he had fallen for turned out to be a treacherous drow female. She had used her wiles quite effectively. Fact is, he doesn't understand how or why it was happening again. Whose to say the newest member of the Talons isn't here for the same reason?
Why am I such an easy target Domi??
Corialote and Amarth Friday September 8th, 2006 10:43:22 PM
Cori looks to Valdor and gives him a smile, accompanied by a wink. She still wants to set it up so that she can breed horses and maybe she has found a partner.
As she watches the others she mentally goes over all her spells that she has memorized for this day and what ones would be most useful.
Valdor Saturday September 9th, 2006 1:34:17 AM
Valdor stands up stretches his legs and says,"Okay everybody. We seem to be stressing out. Enough Ve. I have no place in my heart for Ga'al's slaves, but it is their choice to render themselves his tools, not yours or mine. And besides, we are not here to fight with them, else Mordrid would have killed them before anyone could have jumped in to help. Last time we went to Ailsidur, we went through much pain to make sure that we had a bearable relation so trade could commence and a war was averted. We are ambassadors, each of us, for our respective nations and causes, we all need to remember that. We have a greater goal than hating those who worship differently than us. You, of all people, who have judged my actions recently, should take a deep breath and look beyond your personal feelings.
K'Nara, let's get those who will go rounded up. Cori and Dahlia and Mordrid will go from our group. We will meet shortly at the edge of camp...say ten minutes. Borden, if you have any of your group who can move silently, and I don't mean quietly, they are welcome to join in this. However, our people will give a full report to us when they get back, if you wish noone of yours to go."
Valdor smiles at the clerics and says,"You spoke foolishly. It may be what is in your heart...seed, but if you don't live to find your brethren, you will not be able to report back. Something to remember. If you have an useful information about this quest, then share it, but keep your silly and meaningless comments to yourselves because next time, I will cut your tongues out before our cleric can smash your heads to pieces." There is no hatred in his eyes, he's simply irritated at their attempt to divide the group.
He walks over to Cori and holds out his arm. He says,"Walk with me for a bit on this beautiful night." He takes her outside the camp, then leans over to her ear and whispers,"Let them think whatever they want. I am doing this for two reasons. First, because I want to be out here with you and not with all of that group. Second because I don't want them to know what I am going to ask you. There is something going on that's not right. Either Borden isn't who or what he says he is, or his lieutenant Birk is covering something, or one of the clerics of Ga'al is hiding something. I think someone in this group is a spy and may be disguised. Can you cast true seeing, my lovely drow?"
Lian Saturday September 9th, 2006 10:04:42 AM
Feeling the tension grow among the group, the Dragons and prisoners mostly, the monk stays his tongue so he doesn't cause more issues.
He listens as Valdor asks Knara to gather her small group. Assuming he is one she might pick, he gathers his gear and moves to join Knara. He knows that Milo will likely go and possibly Ingrge.
What were Cori and Valdor planning?
K'Nara Saturday September 9th, 2006 10:55:10 AM
K'Nara immediately contacts those to go scouting: Milo, Lian and Ingrge.
"Stealth and big ears are needed," she tells them, playfully flicking at the nearby Ingrge's pointed ear, "As well as the ability to help cover a hasty retreat if necessary. Do your best."
Milo d20+21=32 d20+23=34 Saturday September 9th, 2006 12:03:44 PM
Milo snorts silently, "Stealth and big ears... I am nothing but stealth and big ears oh fearless leader." The halfling's grin is as plain as the twinkle in his eye as the halfling pirouette's into a soundless handstand before resuming his normal unassuming stance. (OOC: Tumble DC 32, Move Silently DC 34)
Ingrge Sunday September 10th, 2006 7:56:36 AM
"Becareful K'nara, or I will tell Caeryn that you were trying to come on to me. You really don't want herangry with you. Now you did say you wanted sublt. Is that why I am coming along?"
****** Dahlia hears Valdor and responds by ear piece. I am coming, and though you won't see me, I'll be there.
Lian d20+22=40 d20+8=22 d20+10=19 d20+4=16 Sunday September 10th, 2006 10:33:42 AM
Lian prepares for scouting.
(Move Silently 40, Hide 22, Spot 19, Search 16)
Aeralia Sunday September 10th, 2006 11:07:45 AM
Aeralia smiles lightly at Lian as he offers her the berries, understanding his intentions. "Thanks, Master Lian," she mumbles lightly, looking the goodberry over slightly as she spins it slowly between her fingers.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
"Why don't a few of us go and, you know, join them? A few travellers, looking for excitement, but not finding anything, might be the type of recruits they are looking for," Aeralia suggests as others prepare to scout, mostly just thinking outloud. "Wouldn't need to mention any of the others, but then we'd have someone on the inside, to warn us, is something was about to happen?"
Olana Monday September 11th, 2006 12:29:07 AM
Olana smiles at Milo's antics. She wasn't worried about him, he knew how to take care of himself. So she walks over to where Ve Mundr and Falin are talking. "We might not be able to join them, but we can follow them, yes? Keep our distance? We've managed it so far."
"You okay? " she asks Falin afterwards, not really sure why she was asking him that in particular.
Nick Monday September 11th, 2006 12:38:40 AM
It's been on his mind ever since the group set off on this trip from the banks of the Peasblossom and the Tears of the Wood tavern. The Ga'alians. He couldn't avoid them forever. Maybe it was time to bite the bullet, grab whatever it was by the horns, put his fears to one side, etc etc. If his interaction could help smooth things along a bit, then so be it. So far everyone seemed to be circling around one another like Gunther's panther, when perhaps they should be concentrating on what lay ahead.
And so he comes to stand alongside the Brothers and will engage them in conversation after this meeting breaks up.
DM Jan Monday September 11th, 2006 1:51:13 AM
LATE EVENING - CENTRAL IZEN
Gunther finds Thaeri the panther crouched low under a shrub, ears back, teeth bared, her eyes almost completely black in the darkness. Following her line of sight, he sees the dark silhouettes of Valdor, Cori, Borden, K'Nara, Lian, Ingrge, Mordrid poking at the ground, and Falin, Olana and Ve, Aeralia off on her own, Nick and Bertram, with some of the others milling behind. Then the slender figure of Milo executes a perfect handstand, and the cat's ears twitch and move forward, distracted. Predator? Not sure, everyone. She rolls over, batting a massive, claws retracted, paw at her human companion.
To Mordrid's ears, the horses seem a little twitchy. Nothing obvious, but they seem on edge. Ve spots Gunther crouching low beside a matt black shape. Beyond, in the immediate surroundings, nothing is moving except for shrubs in the breeze.
At the meeting - Brother Nyle turns to Brother Michael. His face suggests outrage at what's been said. "We cannot just stand here and let - " Brother Michael silences him with a gesture, and the man obeys, not saying another word. The other brother - Tyne, looks on with a slight smile on his face, in perfect control of his emotions. "So," says Brother Michael, his voice even. "It appears that we are at the mercy of your scouts, who are far better trained than we, I'm sure. You will keep us informed? We will of course help where we can." He acknowledges the nearby Father Nicholas with a nod and a polite smile.
Bertram's scrutiny of the Brothers might have him wondering. With the exception of Brother Nyle, they'd taken the insults from the others on the chin without so much as a twitch. Was that a result of training, placidity, or merely Ga'al exerting his iron grip via the heartseeds? Back where he came from - a punch up would be in the making after all that.
Meanwhile, the elves make their own preparations for the night, following Falin's instructions, organizing themselves into watches. It's becoming a routine now, with everyone in their elven group knowing their part in the team.
Ve's quiet examination of Falin's interest in the Ga'alians reveals a mix of emotions - that look - was it dislike of the priests? It was certainly intense, like a hawk concentrating on prey, and yet - there, quickly followed, was the confusion. Something in the protector's own innards, remnants of a hungry evil, makes him pause on the subject of the Ga'alians. Such an iron grip on their tempers. They weren't for being goaded that was for sure. Ah, control such as that...
As for the imminent scouting mission -
"Birk and another will accompany you," Borden says. He then turns and talks quietly to some of his other men.
(I have 2 orcs, Cori, Dahlia, Mordrid, Milo, Lian, Ingrge ordered to go on the scouting mission.
I have Valdor, Bertram, the Ga'alians, the elves, the three prisoners, Borden and the remaining orcs, Olana, Nick, Gunther, Falin, Aeralia, Ve and K'Nara remaining behind at the camp. )
The terrain - the caravan is beyond a slight rise, half a mile to the south east. They have a campfire built just off the main track. It shines like a beacon in the dark. Surrounding cover is not exactly plentiful, but it's there in the form of boulders and low shrubs.
Back at the camp, to those with human eyes, it's getting to the point where they can hardly see. One of the prisoners is struggling and making noise.
Posting Report For Monday September 11th, 2006 8:55:35 AM
Game # 1 For the week of Sept 4,2006 Name-----MTWTF DM Jan----XXXXX Valdor----2XXXXS Mordrid---O2XXX Fr.Nick---XXXXOS Dahlia----OXOXXS VE Mont---XXX22 Carealot--OXOXX
Adm Ceil - Sorry DM Jan, but Jerry said I can only do the Platinum Dragon Game.
K'Nara Monday September 11th, 2006 11:17:01 AM
K'Nara's attention is diverted by the distress of the struggling prisoner.
"Oh, now what...?" she asks aloud, exasperated, and strides over to where the prisoner is in order to see what's up.
Lian d20+22=36 d20+20=26 d20+10=21 d20+4=15 d20+8=17 Monday September 11th, 2006 12:03:17 PM
Lian glances back, hearing the noise, but continues on.
Falin Monday September 11th, 2006 1:39:37 PM
Ve's words seems to snap Falin out of his thoughts and he agrees with the wisdom in it, "I would like to stay with the elves just for continuities sake. I think we should be sticking together as a group as well. Makes me nervous being separated like this. Several times in my experience with the talons I have become separated for long stretches of time and been trapped in unpleasent places. I am not eager to return to anything like that."
When Olana approaches Falin ans asks if he is alright he shakes his head and looks to the ground, "No I don't feel well at all. I don't know if it is the stress of watching over the elves or something else. I am haunted by something just at the edge of my mind and it calls to me. I am not sure what it is. I have been restless as of late and hungry. Which is odd because of my ring of sustenance." He is continuously turning the ring on his finger. "It has gotten stronger since the priests came upon us.I find myself drawn towards them. I am afraid I may have left part of my sanity back in Koshee Mar." He rubs his eyes while his head is turn towards the ground as he turns it from left to right. A long drawn out sigh escapes his lips. "I am nervous. I don't know.... I guess if it becomes more of a problem I will let you know, but I don't want to appear weak in the eyes of the other elves and in the eyes of my friends. I have let them down before and I don't want to again."
He thanks Olana and goes out to the other elves to make sure they are settling in well. He will pick a spot out from the camp and within eyesight of the other elves and watch for the evening.
Ve Mundr Monday September 11th, 2006 3:38:56 PM
Ve's face srews up slightly when Valdor mentions judging again, but it is likely just symantics. The flicker of annoyance is gone quickly and with a placid face and calm eyes as he thinks. Personally he saw a large difference between a difference of worshipping opinions and the fight against Ga'al imprisoning the Wold, but little head way could be made here so there was little point in mentioning that.
Ve simply was far more black and white, allowing evil and malice ot live and fester for temporary peace did not set well with him. Of course, it was precisely that line of thinking that prevented him from holding any real secular power within the Church and got him in a great deal of trouble with generally everyone and he well understood that. Ve walked a fine line and zealot was always just to his left. His superiors in the church also understood this all too well. While none would dispute his prowess in combat, many had issue with his zeal. Ve always felt to much placation occurred and here again he would have to. So be it, the line would remain on his left. The Ga'al lack of emotion was merely another reminder of the error in thier own path, failings of will, Ve considered it. They had been tested and found wanting and now would eternally pay the price. Pity for them came to him now, thier souls lost the people they were destroyed and consumed by the ever hungry Ga'al. The smile on Tyne's face does give the cleric of Domi another thought though. The touch of Pity turns sour, for the fool thinks he has accomplished something or that they have even flustered him perhaps. Ga'al is not so strong in that one perhaps, arrogance and smug self rightousness are not normal traits of Ga'al priest. Though the personal lust of power that is also reflected in his eyes is. A twisted soul further warped by Ga'al and promises of power. before this is through, Ve feels that he will be personally instructing Tyne to his error. The entire introspection occurs in the blink of an eye.
"With nothing between us and them, any fire we light will be seasily seen, as such no one should light one. Be careful going out there. Ia am going to keep the prisoners quiet." Ve will go to where the prisoners are and cast Silence on one of his crossbow bolts and sink it into the ground about 10' from them. He puts his finger to his lips.
Spells in effect: Greater Magic Weapon Magic Vestment Armor Magic Vestment Shield Endure Elements Status
Mordrid Monday September 11th, 2006 5:20:35 PM
"A scouting team this large is nonsense. While being stealthy, we'll be walking all over each other."
"One person should enter camp, the rest should watch from the perimeter, to extract our scout if something goes wrong. Our most experienced scout should do this alone. I'm a hunter, not a scout. I haven't seen or spoke to Dahlia in days, so the job falls on Milo's shoulders. He's more than capable. The rest of us can remain hidden on the perimeter, while being completely still. We can't have invisible people running all over the place," the ranger is getting slightly annoyed. The idea of the chaos involved rubbs him eight shades of red.
Aeralia Monday September 11th, 2006 10:43:25 PM
Hearing the noise from the prisoner, Aeralia slowly makes her way over to where they are being held, taking care not to run into anyone as she moves through the darkness.
Reaching them, she bends over and sits on her haunches, smiling lightly at them. "Please be quiet, alright? I'm sure you'd much rather do it now, instead of when they ask..." she says with a bit of worry in her voice, nodding her head towards the orcs. It was obvious -she- was worried about what the orcs might do, and wasn't so much trying to threaten them.
~~~~~~~
OOC: Question. Arn't there 4 prisoners? What did I miss? :(
Valdor Monday September 11th, 2006 11:07:57 PM
Valdor chuckles at Mordrid's comments and replies with his earring activated so all the Plats can hear,"Oh, Dahlia's around. Don't you worry about that. I think one from each group would suffice, except the clerics of Ga'al. So, I'm off to bed. I need to get some sleep. Wake me if anything exciting happens, or when it's my watch."
He stays with Cori until she answers him about the spell.
Corialote and Amarth Monday September 11th, 2006 11:33:39 PM
Cori will take Valdor's arm and walk with him. She leans in close as if discussing something private. She gives a soft chuckle as she shakes her head. "I can do that." Looking around at the others she gives a yawn as she prepares herself to cast a spell.
Pulling out a small tin she rubs her thumbs into it as she speaks in sharp draconic. "You may want to close those pretty eyes of yours." She then rubs her thumbs over the eyes of Valdor with a smile. "Your sight will be improved as you asked." She then looks around to make another decision. "Maybe I should stay behind then...this would not be the kind of mission that I would be best at...I meant to enter the camp seen and inquire about horses."
[true seeing(Valdor) - 21 minutes]
Gunther Tuesday September 12th, 2006 12:42:58 AM
Confused by the response of his kitty, Gunther sticks nearby her, bedding down as close as she will let him. "Let me know if you sense any more predators." he murmurs to her as he settles after his evening wrestling session with her. He takes the few hours of rest he needs due to his ring of sustenence and spends the rest of the time bonding with his kitty and watching over K'nara as she sleeps.
Milo d20+25=35 d20+23=33 Tuesday September 12th, 2006 12:53:36 AM
Milo smiles at Mordrid, and salutes the elder dragon, "Sir, yes sir. I'll get a move on presently. Don't fall too far behind." And that is the last they hear from the halfling as he makes to head out. (OOC: Hide DC 35, Move Silently DC 33.)
Olana Tuesday September 12th, 2006 1:07:07 AM
Olana watches Falin go about his business. She knows he's been through some bad times, terrifying even, and she can sympathize with that having had her own nightmare to crawl through. She glances over at Cori, Ve and Valdor - Platinum Dragons. What was going through their minds? After all, they'd had their heads jammed firmly in the proverbial dragons mouth a heck of a lot more often than the Talons had. Had any of them cracked? Did they have a room somewhere in that castle of theirs, where the crazy ones were kept? It made an elf wonder... it really did.
Nick Tuesday September 12th, 2006 1:09:23 AM
After the meeting breaks up, Nick takes the opportunity to talk to the Ga'alians.
"Brothers," he says with a nod. "May I ask how many of your people are missing, feared taken by this 'Iron Fist?'"
DM Jan Tuesday September 12th, 2006 2:35:05 AM
The Caravan camp - 2 orcs, Dahlia, Mordrid, Milo, Lian, Ingrge
As those in the scouting party head off into the gloom, over the rise, and down a slight slope toward the caravan. There is light there, from a campfire and some perimeter torches, making it very easy to approach in the gloom beyond the light. There are voices - lots of them, laughter, the scent of horses, and something good cooking over the fire. It has all the makings of a big road trip party and can be seen and heard from a fair distance away. Lian can see a number of tents, and a makeshift corral for the horses off to one side. There are two guards there, presumably to fend off any passing hungry wildlife.
And while, Mordrid, Birk and another orc, Dahlia, Lian and Ingrge stay at the perimeter, Milo ventures further in, and is able to slip between tents toward the centre of things. There's a big gathering around the fire - maybe fifty men? Some young, some old. All eating, drinking. The mood appears to be good, with a bordering anticipation. At the far side of the fire is a large painted wagon.
At the perimeter, Lian hears it first - someone approaches from the south west. Two figures, stumbling across the scrub toward the light of the fires. One of them is carrying a torch.
The Talon/Platinum camp - Valdor, Cori, Bertram, the Ga'alians, the elves, the four prisoners, Borden and the remaining orcs, Olana, Nick, Gunther, Falin, Aeralia, Ve and K'Nara
The elves are quietly rolling out bedrolls or setting up watch in the darkness and getting further instructions from Falin. There will be no fires lit on this night, after that stern fellow Ve Mundr's instructions. Some of the elves are a little in awe of that one. And Valdor of course. Borden is getting some of his men organized with tethering the horses, although two of his men stay saddled and mounted for now.
K'Nara approaches the prisoners. "Tell them not to be so rough, bit -" one of them growls at her, cut off by the *thunk* of Ve's silence bolt. There are four orcs stood there. One has a broad grin on his face. The others are looking at K'Nara, Aeralia and Ve as if to say "What?"
Cori's spell activates around Valdor, giving him the visual means to detect anything hidden. A quick wander around will reveal nothing out of the ordinary, everyone appears to be who they're supposed to be - the clerics, the orcs, the Talons.
Gunther spends some time with his panther. It seems to him that she's a little on edge, but unsure of the exact reason why.
Bertram sees the Ga'alians and the Platinum Alemi cleric gather to chat, four humans in contrasting white or red. It looks civilized enough, apart from the sight of the red raw writhing heartseeds on the Aisildurians torsos.
The Brothers gather around Nick like hens around a feeding bowl. "Greetings at last, Father Nicholas," says Br. Michael genially. " In answer to your question, we're missing upwards of 50 of our citizens."
One of the elves walks up to Falin. " I think I see movement - to the north - animals is my guess, of some kind."
Falin d20+18=36 Tuesday September 12th, 2006 5:34:06 AM
Falin recognizes the young elf as Sinilrilas he had displayed a high proficiency with the bow during their practice time. He reminded Falin of himself as a young elf. He acted a lot like him and they had some of the same elements in their background. Sinilrilas was being raised by his grandparents because something had been happened to his parents when he was very young. He recognized the same determination in his eyes that Falin once had. Hopefully, though, that would change to wisdom as he grew older.
Turning and following Sinilrials' gaze to the North Falin looks for the movement. (Spot 36) When he sees it he glances back towards the other elves and seeing that they are doing alright he turns back to Sinilrials and says, "Let's go check it out." A grin crawls across his face as he begins to snake forward with the young elf in tow. Falin motion for Sinilrials to move out to the left as Falin continues straight towards the movement.
K'Nara Tuesday September 12th, 2006 10:56:39 AM
K'Nara nods, confirming Aeralia's words, then turns to the grinning orc.
"Is there a problem here?" she demands gruffly. "Since these four are prisoners, they aren't too much of a handful for you, are they? Perhaps I should ask Borden to assign more soldiers here if you can't seem to control them...?"
Lian d20+22=24 d20+10=18 d20+20=25 Tuesday September 12th, 2006 11:51:00 AM
The monk holds his finger to his mouth and then gestures to the group to stop moving. He indicates that there are two persons moving in the shrubbery.
The monk then moves away, retrieves a copper from his pouch, and casts darkness and immediately covers it to block the effect. "Just in case." He whispers.
He continues to watch and listen. (Move Silently 24, Spot 18, Listen 25)
Brother Bertram Tuesday September 12th, 2006 3:24:06 PM
Bertram strolls over to Father Nick and the others, nodding at him warmly, to the Ga'alians in acknowledgement, if not companionship. "I see you have made new friends, Father.", He grins.
Valdor Tuesday September 12th, 2006 3:28:50 PM
Valdor continues to watch the clerics of Ga'al specifically, but even looks over the horses of the orcs. Something isn't right and he's not sure what it is. He shrugs and tells Cori,"Sorry, I seem to have wasted your spell. Everything looks right. You're even hotter with this improved vision, however."
He smiles in spite of his feeling and decides to lay down for a while to sleep. He keeps his earring activated and tells Dahlia in a whisper,"Don't forget about your earring. Keep us up to speed. It will take us time to get there if something happens."
Nick Tuesday September 12th, 2006 6:02:44 PM
Nick is VERY relieved to see Brother Bertram walk up and join them. Now he didn't feel so outnumbered. Normally it wouldn't have bothered Nick in the slightest, but with Ga'alian clerics in particular - he carried some heavy mental baggage in dealing with these guys, heavy baggage indeed.
"Good of you to join us, Brother," Nick says to Bertie. "We were just discussing the Aisildurian missing citizens. I'm assuming they've wandered off to join this Iron Fist Army?" His question is directed toward the Ga'alians. "Fifty, you say? I wonder if that would help us estimate the numbers of this army?"
Ve Mundr d20+18=29 Tuesday September 12th, 2006 7:25:34 PM
Ve looks at the grinning orc and squats to look over the prisoners. He is specifically looking to chaffing or some other physical condition to cause the squirming and noise that was starting. [Heal 29] Ve then stands and gives the orc a stern look. He canpt say anything of course but hopefully his concern about the prisoner and his final look would put across what might happen if the orc got out of hand.
Ve then moves over to where the clerics Bertram and Father nick were. On the way he mentions to his earpiece, "I am going to be up for some time, we'll keep the camp." Ve moves sure and strong in his strides across the camp his Darkvision allowing him the luxury. "Also if Cori does not have more instant transport prepared I have an Ethreal Jaunt to help us cover the distance."
Ve grabs a small nearby log and sits "Father Nicholas," he says with a slight bow. "About 50 missing then. How long has this been going on and do you know anything about the 50. ANything that connects them or makes them desirable to a growing army or organization?"
Spells in effect: Greater Magic Weapon Magic Vestment Armor Magic Vestment Shield Endure Elements Status
Milo d20+25=44 d20+23=31 Tuesday September 12th, 2006 7:31:53 PM
Not hearing anything of consequence coming from the men just yet, Milo decides to sneak over and investigate the painted wagon. (OOC: Hide DC 44, Move Silently DC 31)
Corialote and Amarth Tuesday September 12th, 2006 7:46:55 PM
Cori blushes at the compliment and brushes her lips across Valdor's cheek. "You say the nicest things." She then lets him go and get some sleep. She passes through the camp one last time and then finds a place to settle herself. As she is falling asleep she hears the comment from Ve and smiles. "I can prepare a spell like I did the first time...but I will need a destination that can be described to me...in detail." She sleeps lightly this night or lighter than she has in a long time.
Amarth is off in one of the trees or bushes having a little sleep of his own. He dreams of birds and flying, but at the same time being in control of a flock of his own.
Dahlia / Ingrge Tuesday September 12th, 2006 8:48:13 PM
moving along with the others but out of the way Dahlia puts a plan into action. Going opposite to where Milo is heading Dahlia looks for a lone sentry she can come up upon that looks like he won't be missed for a bit and then prepares herself for what is about to come.
*******
Ingrge following along with the others still finds it somewhat inspiring to watch Milo do his thing. With his eyes he scans the upcoiming camp tryig to get a fix on where certain important things might be stashed.
Gunther Tuesday September 12th, 2006 10:37:41 PM
Gunther hangs with the orcs as he waits for the scouting party to return. He eagerly joins in with as many wrestling/brawling as possible.
Olana Wednesday September 13th, 2006 12:16:08 AM
Olana frowns. All the clerics had gathered together like it was a big church meeting, Falin had just dashed off with one of the elves, and now the others were having what looked like a face-off with the orcs. It was all a case of which party to join, she supposed. With a sigh, she checked her weapons and went to join the stare down with the orcs.
DM Jan ***WARNING - ORC HUMOUR IN THIS POST*** Wednesday September 13th, 2006 1:22:13 AM
The Caravan camp - 2 orcs, Dahlia, Mordrid, Milo, Lian, Ingrge
Those with enhanced vision, natural or otherwise, are able to see Lian's signal that someone is approaching from the south west, and after a few moments it becomes obvious to everyone. Two young men, speaking to one another in loud whispers, heading straight for the torches. Dirt City accents. "Think they'll let us join in?" "Don't see why not, c'mon. Let's ask. HEY!!" They wave their torch and head for the fire.
Ingrge's perusal of the camp gives him the impression of men, fires, tents, horses - all hastily stowed. And with the exception of the horses, and the men - no other cargo. On his way toward the wagon, Milo hears snippets of chatter from around the campfire. As they tell jokes, or describe women they've known, or tell of their homes, it's a jumble of different accents, like this group has been gathered from all over the Wold, although he doesn't recognize anything from Emerald or the Plateaus. There's a man standing alone on the steps at the rear of the wagon. Slender fingers are leafing through a tattered book. He's dressed in robes, rather than fighting gear, and as Milo gets closer, he looks up from his book suddenly, and toward the campfire.
Dahlia approaches the area where the horses have been tied. There are two sentries there, about thirty feet apart from one another.
The Talon/Platinum camp - Valdor, Cori, Bertram, the Ga'alians, the elves, the four prisoners, Borden and the remaining orcs, Olana, Nick, Gunther, Falin, Aeralia, Ve and K'Nara
Brothers Michael, Nyle and Tyne are now in the company of Domi clerics Ve and Bertram, and Alemi cleric Nicholas. Michael remains the spokesman, while Tyne keeps that half smile on his face, and Nyle raises an eyebrow at Ve's ceasing of hostilities. "Hard to say how long this has been going on. It's months, certainly," says Brother Michael. "And they're all non-heartseeded of course." He sighs and shakes his head. "Young men for the most part. We can only guess at what possessed them to do such a thing. It was only after ques - after asking their friends and families that we heard of this Iron Fist. Someone had posted signs, leaflets, promising adventure and fortune..."
About twenty feet away, the four prisoners are sat on the ground, tied up like winter celebration turkeys. Before Ve Mundr's healing spell, two of them were bleeding from bloody noses. The four orcs are standing directly behind them, staring defiantly at K'Nara, Aeralia and Olana. "You women should be mending clothes," one of the orcs says with a snort. "Or polishing our weapons." HOWEVER, because of the Silence spell, he's left chuckling quietly at his own crude joke.
As Cori settles down to get some sleep, Valdor's viewpoint is of the gathered horses. Borden is over there, looking puzzled, with two of his men and Gunther. The horses are shifting uneasily, particularly those belonging to the Platinum/Talon group. Amarth's dream has an edge, that makes sleep a hard thing to come by, and - laid flat, ears back, under the same shrub. Thaeri the panther reverts to her unhappiness of the confusing scents drifting around the camp.
And wouldn't you know it - After three days of yomping through Izen - a place renowned for its cantankerous wildlife - and not encountering a thing - and when keeping quiet is high on the current agenda - Falin and the younger elf spot the following - coming out of the north, currently approx 100ft from camp -
From this distance it's difficult to tell how many heads this huge reptilian beast has, but there are a lot, swaying back and forth, testing the air as the creature ventures forward toward the camp. It's flesh seems to carry a reddish tinge in the gloom.
Falin (AC 20 HP 63) d20+22=39 d20+22=42 d20+18=25 Wednesday September 13th, 2006 5:46:15 AM
Falin motions for Sinilrilas to alert the elves on patrol. Watching him run off Falin begins to stalk this new creature while waiting for the others to arrive. He will keep his bow at the ready with an arrow in case things should go wrong.
Hide 39 Move Silently 42 Spot 25
Ve Mundr Wednesday September 13th, 2006 10:41:39 AM
Ve shakes his head a bit with a look of 'you people are as pathetic as I thought' on his face. "So what you are telling me is that about 50 young adventure seeking men left the under thier own free will and decision over the course of several months? And that has your undergarments in such a bunch that 3 of you come trooping all the way out here? That leaves two things. You're lying, or Ga'al is very desperate for lackeys and to be honest I don't believe you are lying." Ve shifts to lean back slightly, this was just sad, but it also changed his view of the Iron Fist slightly. Basically Ve was not sure who the enemy was. Maybe the missing orcs just don't want to pal about with Borden and plant crops and raise children, which if the fledgling nation Borden wants to create is to be a success, is what many of them would have to do.
Ve can only see 60' into the black and so is unaware of the approaching danger.
Spells in effect: Greater Magic Weapon Magic Vestment Armor Magic Vestment Shield Endure Elements Status
Lian (88hps, AC 37) d20+10=21 d20+20=27 d20+22=25 Wednesday September 13th, 2006 11:21:35 AM
Lian continues to be alert while his comrads are lurking away from the safety of the group. He retrieves a cube from a pouch and prepares another spell.
Valdor Wednesday September 13th, 2006 1:47:46 PM
Valdor whispers into his earpiece,"Ve, remember, we suspect this black dragon is behind this Iron Fist, and, if so, it represents a dire situation for our home. Our goal here is not to antangonize Ga'al's idiots. They may be of some use if we do fight the dragon. We can use them as fodder, if possible and necessary. I know they make you sick,as they do myself, but lets leave it alone. You won't change their minds or beliefs now that they have been heartseeded. Plus, I'm trying to get some sleep."
Ve hears a slight chuckle as Valdor quiets back down. From his knowledge of Father Nicholas, he should know the story about Valdor saving Nick twice from the clutches of Ga'al's clerics and that Valdor hates them as intensely as Ve seems to.
Brother Bertram Wednesday September 13th, 2006 2:21:51 PM
Bertram listens as the priests fill in gaps in the story. He wonders what would possess 50 men to just wander away so easily. He is unaware of the approaching creature as he listens and muses.
Mordrid Wednesday September 13th, 2006 3:33:02 PM
Mordrid lays low. He has no intention of interferring or otherwise injuring someone in this camp. Noone in this camp is guilty of anyhing yet.
Corialote and Amarth Wednesday September 13th, 2006 7:26:57 PM
Cori slumbers on as she dreams of her garden back home and the new one that she plans to start in the Plat Castle. She has no idea of anything that is going on around though she does hear bits and pieces of conversation through the earpiece.
Amarth is doing pretty much the same thing.
SPELLS 0th(4): detect magic(2), dancing lights(2) 1st(7): grease(2), magic missile(2), disguise self(2) 2nd(7): web(2), mirror image(2), blur(2), resist energy(fire) 3rd(7): hold person(3), major image(2), haste(2) 4th(6): stoneskin(3), wall of fire(2), mass enlarge person 5th(3): cone of cold(2), passwall 6th(6): greater dispel magic(2), shadow walk(2), mass bear's endurance, chain lightning 7th(6): summon monster VII(2), mass hold person, prismatic spray(2), reverse gravity 8th(4): summon monster VIII(2), polar ray(2) 9th(4): teleportation circle*, time stop, summon monster IX * used spell
Olana Thursday September 14th, 2006 12:02:08 AM
Worried about how she can't hear anything that the orcs or the prisoners are saying, Olana looks at K'Nara and Aeralia. She didn't like the body language on the orcs, and reckons they'd caught those ugly monsters smacking the prisoners around. Mind you, should she be concerned, anyway?
She backs off, and looks around the camp.
Nick Thursday September 14th, 2006 12:10:07 AM
Nick watches the faces of the Ga'alian clerics - what he could see of them in the gloom, anyway. Ve had a point. It did seem like very normal behaviour - men, young, seeking adventure. That was probably happening all over the Wold. Although... Aisildur wasn't 'everywhere'. In fact Aisildur wasn't like everywhere else at all. An entire realm controlled by a God, and Ga'al kept a tight grip - or had until recently. Was the autocratic one getting nervous now that his people had a choice? Did he perhaps fear a mass exodus - if news got back that some had found freedom, adventure and happiness elsewhere...
Milo d20+25=43 d20+23=40 Thursday September 14th, 2006 12:45:51 AM
Milo freezes in place as the man looks toward the campfires, attempting to ascertain whether or not he has been seen. Since the man isn't looking directly at him, Milo takes a moment to memorize his face. Then, quick as a wink, Milo silently clicks the heels of his boots of speed together and moves fast and silent around the other side of the wagon to the rear of the robed man, though not too close. Milo is attempting to gauge the risk involved in entering the wagon with the man so close, and hoping that he'll join the other men. (OOC: Hide DC 43, Move Silently DC 40; Moving at speed 40, a notch under max speed which is 50 using the boots.)
DM Jan Thursday September 14th, 2006 1:37:26 AM
The Caravan camp - 2 orcs, Dahlia, Mordrid, Milo, Lian, Ingrge
The general chatter of the camp stops abruptly as the shout in the dark is heard. Mordrid, Lian and Ingrge witness some of the men sat around the fire rise and greet the two who appear to have crossed Izen from the south west to join them. Now Lian ( and the others) see the robed figure, who has emerged from the camp's midst. The man is not dressed for sword swinging or spear throwing. He's either a merchant, a noble, or perhaps a mage. The two newcomers are absorbed into the group with handshakes and offers of food. Dahlia is still creeping up on one of the men guarding the horses. Milo finds that the coast is clear. The man has stepped away and is near the campfire - a good thirty feet away.
The Talon/Platinum camp - Valdor, Cori, Bertram, the Ga'alians, the elves, the four prisoners, Borden and the remaining orcs, Olana, Nick, Gunther, Falin, Aeralia, Ve and K'Nara
Valdor and Cori are trying to get some sleep, K'Nara, Olana and Aeralia find themselves in some kind of standoff with some of the orcs, and Brother Michael is just launching into an explanation to Nick, Ve and Bertram about Ga'al being concerned about his people, wherever they may be - when something changes. Some of the elves are running about, and two approach the cleric group and K'Nara's group. There's a monster on the approach from the north - a type of lizard, with many heads. Gunther and Borden can see that something is going on.
100 ft from the camp to the north, and about 30ft from the monster, Falin counts 13 heads.
K'Nara Thursday September 14th, 2006 1:54:04 AM
K'Nara's hand goes to her sword's handle--but whatever she may have intended is diverted by the sudden announcement made by the elves.
"Valdor!" the blade singer bellows as she sets off at a dead run for the north of the camp. "Something is approaching camp! It's big and has many heads..!"
The leader of the Talons draws her sword as she goes, barking out "Lucia!" in order to activate the weapon's Flame.
Dahlia/ Ingrge Thursday September 14th, 2006 7:03:22 AM
Deciding that she shouldn't be too terribly hasty she watches the two guards momentarily watching what they do where they are watching looking to see how attentive they are. She also checks out how the horses are picketed.
***
Ingrge takes as good a look as he can at the robed figure as he moves closer to the fire.
Lian (88hps, AC 37) d20+9=28 d20+20=31 d20+22=31 Thursday September 14th, 2006 9:29:12 AM
The monk watches and listens intently. He is ready to act if anything happens. (Has cube and components in hand .)
Milo d20+25=39 d20+23=34 Thursday September 14th, 2006 10:30:08 AM
Seeing that the way is open to him, Milo creeps up into the wagon to have himself a look. He is cautious to peek in before entering to make sure that he isn't walking in on anyone that might be awake anyhow. (OOC: Hide DC 39, Move Silently DC 34)
Valdor Thursday September 14th, 2006 2:08:49 PM
Valdor, not asleep, but trying, hops up and booms out,"Spread out. There should be at least five feet between each person. Mages archers line up behind the front line warriors. If it's a hydra, one archer from each group should get torches ready and be prepared to burn the stump when a head comes off! MOVE NOW! And somebody has put a wall of force or something around the horses. The prisoners should be moved and protected as well. Clerics be ready to cast and heal and then ready to fight in melee if needed. But, we must all stay spread out! We will encircle it when it's close enough. Someone will need to cast a spell for us all to see in a few seconds. Find your place and join me for this battle!"
He sprints to the edge of camp, activates his boots of speed, and awaits its coming. He stands straight showing no fear nor panic, hoping if any elves are nervous, they'll take comfort in his steadiness.
He contacts Dahlia and says,"I'm afraid our secrecy is gone. We have something approaching that sounds like a hydra. Keep an eye on the caravan and see what they do. Don't show yourself, noone knows about you. Try not to let the others with you show themselves."
Mordrid Thursday September 14th, 2006 3:15:38 PM
Mordrid hears Valdor pipe over the ear-pieces, whispering, "Ingrge... Lian... go back to camp. You're needed there. They're under attack. I'll see to it that Dahlia and Milo get safely extracted."
Corialote and Amarth Thursday September 14th, 2006 3:48:49 PM
The warning and call to arms has no more come over her earpiece and through the air and Cori is to her feet. Moving through the camp with all its sudden commotions she looks for Valdor. When she finally finds him she moves in his direction with a slight amused smile. "Did you draw this monster here for my entertainment?" This is a tinge of laughter in her voice and her eyes flash as her drow eyes search the darkness.
Amarth blissfully sleeps on not worried in the least that a monster is on the prowl. With this many able bodies around he will not be needed.
SPELLS 0th(4): detect magic(2), dancing lights(2) 1st(7): grease(2), magic missile(2), disguise self(2) 2nd(7): web(2), mirror image(2), blur(2), resist energy(fire) 3rd(7): hold person(3), major image(2), haste(2) 4th(6): stoneskin(3), wall of fire(2), mass enlarge person 5th(3): cone of cold(2), passwall 6th(6): greater dispel magic(2), shadow walk(2), mass bear's endurance, chain lightning 7th(6): summon monster VII(2), mass hold person, prismatic spray(2), reverse gravity 8th(4): summon monster VIII(2), polar ray(2) 9th(4): teleportation circle*, time stop, summon monster IX * used spell
Dahlia (quasi illegal second post) Thursday September 14th, 2006 6:19:12 PM
Dahlia first hears Valdor and then Mordrid and quietly subvocalizes her response. Am just an observer, understood. Will stay put unless otherwise informed.
Brother Bertram Thursday September 14th, 2006 9:47:01 PM
Hearing of the monster coming, Bertram shrugs and removes his holy symbol, from under his armor laying it across his chest and removes his axe. "It appears we are soon to be needed."
Olana Thursday September 14th, 2006 10:46:35 PM
"Hydra..." mumbles Olana to no one in particular as she walks to the edge of camp after Valdor."Don't those things grow extra heads if you chop one off?"
She'll join one of the elf squads, moral support and extra firepower.
Valdor Thursday September 14th, 2006 11:16:23 PM
Valdor cracks a smile and says,"I just wanted to impress you, my dear."
Gunther Thursday September 14th, 2006 11:36:17 PM
His sword in his glove of storing, Gunther activates his animated shield and links up with K'nara. "Vhat is it? Vhat's out dere?" Gunther calls to Thaeri, concerned about her trying to join in the fight. "Stay low and keep away from that thing. I'm sure we can take care of it." he growls out to her using the power of the wreath.
Nick Thursday September 14th, 2006 11:41:46 PM
"Let's try and keep our voices down?" Nick says in a loud whisper. "If we're not careful we'll end up fighting on two fronts!"
He strides toward the north perimter of the camp. "Ve, if we're spreading out, which way are you going?" He'll go the opposite after the relevent spells have been cast, and assumes the Ga'alians will be joining in. he can already see Bertram preparing.
K'Nara (2nd post) Friday September 15th, 2006 12:06:49 AM
"From the sound of the description," K'Nara tells Gunther, "It's a hydra--a reptillian-like beast that is as big as a house and has many heads. Legends say that you chop off a head and two more grow in its place..."
Falin (AC 20 HP 63) d20+22=35 d20+22=30 d20+22=33 d20+18=37 d20+13=26 Friday September 15th, 2006 1:40:43 AM
Falin begins to lag behind the beast a bit in case it was hostile, he will keep about 20 feet between himself and the creature.
Falin will pay attention to the path the creature is taking. Does it appear it is heading straight towards their camp? If so he is going to try to turn its path. He will pull 3 gold coins out of his pouch and throw them in front of the creature to try to startle it to turn its course in another direction.
Coin DC's 33, 37, 26
Hide 35 Move Silently 30
Falin (AC 20 HP 63) d20+22=35 d20+22=30 d20+22=33 d20+18=37 d20+13=26 Friday September 15th, 2006 1:40:43 AM
Falin begins to lag behind the beast a bit in case it was hostile, he will keep about 20 feet between himself and the creature.
Falin will pay attention to the path the creature is taking. Does it appear it is heading straight towards their camp? If so he is going to try to turn its path. He will pull 3 gold coins out of his pouch and throw them in front of the creature to try to startle it to turn its course in another direction.
Coin DC's 33, 37, 26
Hide 35 Move Silently 30
DM Jan d20+9=22 d20+9=27 Friday September 15th, 2006 2:12:49 AM
The Caravan camp - 2 orcs, Dahlia, Mordrid, Milo, Lian, Ingrge
Birk (Borden's second in command) who'd gone with the scouting team, sidles over to Mordrid. "Nothing happening, here," he says in a whisper that sounds like he's choking. He and the other orc take off back to the Talon/Platinum camp, obviously eager to join in the fun.
Lian catches snippets of conversation from the campfire - ".... overseas.... money's good... I heard it's a witch... tower on a lake... you'll be well fed... you'll be a hero... before Mordrid asks him and Ingrge to rejoin the others. Ingrge's perusal of the robed figure - it takes one spellcaster to know another.
Milo enters the wagon. There's a lantern burning inside, revealing what looks like a low writing desk, with quill pen, a ledger and stacks of parchment. There are three trunks (lids firmly shut, a bedroll and clothes toward the back, and a number of baskets containing papers of different sizes. One basket contains a jumble of what look like bills of purchase - for all kinds of things. Another carries a vertical stack of identical rolled parchments. There's also a half-eaten apple on the desk.
Dahlia sees one of the guards by the horses become alert all of a sudden. "You hear that?" the man asks his comrade. "Sounded like a shout - in the distance." He puts two fingers to his lips and blows an earsplitting whistle. Ten of the men, and the robed figure, now have the guard's attention.
((Let me know if Lian and Ingrge are returning to camp, or staying.))
The Talon/Platinum camp - Valdor, Cori, Bertram, the Ga'alians, the elves, the four prisoners, Borden and the remaining orcs, Olana, Nick, Gunther, Falin, Aeralia, Ve and K'Nara
The hydra has stopped. It's heads weave in the gloom and Falin ( 20ft away to the north of it) can smell sulpher. For a moment it raises itself on two back legs, obviously getting its bearings and using it's senses, before the front feet land back down with a soft thud. Two of the heads abruptly let out an ear-piercing screech. Another of the heads suddenly sends out a rapid jet of fire that ignites a shrub right next to where Falin's coins have fallen.
The rest of the party in this camp are now congregated at it's northernmost point. The hydra is directly 100ft to the north, not far from a now burning shrub.
((Let me know your actions, folks. I have a race weekend, but I'll get a map together on Monday.))
DM Jan d20+9=22 d20+9=27 Friday September 15th, 2006 2:12:49 AM
The Caravan camp - 2 orcs, Dahlia, Mordrid, Milo, Lian, Ingrge
Birk (Borden's second in command) who'd gone with the scouting team, sidles over to Mordrid. "Nothing happening, here," he says in a whisper that sounds like he's choking. He and the other orc take off back to the Talon/Platinum camp, obviously eager to join in the fun.
Lian catches snippets of conversation from the campfire - ".... overseas.... money's good... I heard it's a witch... tower on a lake... you'll be well fed... you'll be a hero... before Mordrid asks him and Ingrge to rejoin the others. Ingrge's perusal of the robed figure - it takes one spellcaster to know another.
Milo enters the wagon. There's a lantern burning inside, revealing what looks like a low writing desk, with quill pen, a ledger and stacks of parchment. There are three trunks (lids firmly shut, a bedroll and clothes toward the back, and a number of baskets containing papers of different sizes. One basket contains a jumble of what look like bills of purchase - for all kinds of things. Another carries a vertical stack of identical rolled parchments. There's also a half-eaten apple on the desk.
Dahlia sees one of the guards by the horses become alert all of a sudden. "You hear that?" the man asks his comrade. "Sounded like a shout - in the distance." He puts two fingers to his lips and blows an earsplitting whistle. Ten of the men, and the robed figure, now have the guard's attention.
((Let me know if Lian and Ingrge are returning to camp, or staying.))
The Talon/Platinum camp - Valdor, Cori, Bertram, the Ga'alians, the elves, the four prisoners, Borden and the remaining orcs, Olana, Nick, Gunther, Falin, Aeralia, Ve and K'Nara
The hydra has stopped. It's heads weave in the gloom and Falin ( 20ft away to the north of it) can smell sulpher. For a moment it raises itself on two back legs, obviously getting its bearings and using it's senses, before the front feet land back down with a soft thud. Two of the heads abruptly let out an ear-piercing screech. Another of the heads suddenly sends out a rapid jet of fire that ignites a shrub right next to where Falin's coins have fallen.
The rest of the party in this camp are now congregated at it's northernmost point. The hydra is directly 100ft to the north, not far from a now burning shrub.
((Let me know your actions, folks. I have a race weekend, but I'll get a map together on Monday.))
Lian (88hps, AC 37) d20+11=15 Friday September 15th, 2006 9:40:54 AM
Lian doesn't want to leave the others in the camp, but knows Milo can take care of himself. The monk has no real idea where the others are, so he makes a hard decision... he returns to camp. He casts the silence on a copper and bounds off through the forest. With the silence up, it should be enough to avoid detection while he leaves. (70ft speed, 280ft at full x4 run) If there are any obstructions in his way, he'll jump them or the like. (Jump 15)
Active Spell: Darkness (on copper, 39mins), Silence (on copper, 4mins)
Lian (88hps, AC 37) d20+11=15 Friday September 15th, 2006 9:40:54 AM
Lian doesn't want to leave the others in the camp, but knows Milo can take care of himself. The monk has no real idea where the others are, so he makes a hard decision... he returns to camp. He casts the silence on a copper and bounds off through the forest. With the silence up, it should be enough to avoid detection while he leaves. (70ft speed, 280ft at full x4 run) If there are any obstructions in his way, he'll jump them or the like. (Jump 15)
Active Spell: Darkness (on copper, 39mins), Silence (on copper, 4mins)
Valdor Friday September 15th, 2006 10:47:23 AM
Valdor says quietly,"Now if someone could turn it toward the caravan, it would make for an interesting show. Nick, with that noisy beast, secrecy will be a thing of the past."
Seeing the fire, Valdor activates his ring of fire resistance and says loudly, but without screaming,"Clerics, cast any protections you can. Cori, if you have a stone skin, I'll take one. I'll be on it at the front to draw the attention of most of its heads, if possible. Everyone, team up and try to focus on one head at a time. When it's destroyed, someone will need to burn the wound closed to keep more heads from sprouting. Team up and get ready to light torches. Of course, if a cleric has a firestorm ready, we could cut off several heads, then he could cast Firestorm and seal them shut. Just a thought."
Corialote and Amarth Friday September 15th, 2006 11:17:08 AM
Cori nods her head as she falls into the vast power that bounces around in her head. She lays a hand upon the shoulder of Valdor as her spell is completed. There is now a dull green glow to the whole body of Valdor that is kind of eerie.
She starts in on her next spell with a smile. "Give me a minute before you close...I have something that should give it the cold shoulder." Her left hand is already starting to form the motions for her next spell.
[stoneskin(Valdor) - 240minutes or 150damage]
SPELLS 0th(4): detect magic(2), dancing lights(2) 1st(7): grease(2), magic missile(2), disguise self(2) 2nd(7): web(2), mirror image(2), blur(2), resist energy(fire) 3rd(7): hold person(3), major image(2), haste(2) 4th(6): stoneskin(3)*, wall of fire(2), mass enlarge person 5th(3): cone of cold(2), passwall 6th(6): greater dispel magic(2), shadow walk(2), mass bear's endurance, chain lightning 7th(6): summon monster VII(2), mass hold person, prismatic spray(2), reverse gravity 8th(4): summon monster VIII(2), polar ray(2) 9th(4): teleportation circle*, time stop, summon monster IX * used spell
Mordrid Friday September 15th, 2006 11:53:25 AM
Mordrid looks over his shoulder at the darkness behind, where a fight is about to rage unseen; however the calls of men-at-arms are starting to echo softly across the plains.
"D^*n!" This will not go unnoticed by the caravan watchmen. The ranger looks back at the centuries, and then again back over his shoulder at the darkness behind. Rolling over onto his back he begins to cast, his target being the full distance of his spell's range, across the grassy darkness beyond and out the range of the caravan's perimeter light.
WINDWALL: a verticle curtain of air 220 feet long and 110 feet high.
He will form a barrier of air between his camp and the caravan's camp, in an attempt to deaden the sounds of combat coming from behind.
K'Nara Friday September 15th, 2006 3:52:33 PM
The leader of the Talons frowns thoughtfully.
"Valdor--is there any particular sort of prey this thing prefers, or will it follow a person?" she asks. "I volunteer to try to lead it to the caravan if you believe that I'd be a...uh...ahem...tasty enough morsel to get its attention."
Valdor Friday September 15th, 2006 4:05:26 PM
Valdor replies,"I would rather not have it chasing you. If it caught you by yourself...Well, we might not get to you in time. If it has thirteen heads, well, I have never seen one with that many. I wouldn't want to fight it alone, unless it would impress Cori."
K'Nara (2nd post) Friday September 15th, 2006 6:09:45 PM
"Which leads back to the original question...is there some kind of prey that this thing prefers?" K'Nara asks. "Maybe our newest recruit can conjure a realistic-looking illusion for this beastie to follow, then...?" She looks around to see where Aeralia is.
Ve Mundr Friday September 15th, 2006 9:57:08 PM
Ve looks off into the dark as cries of alarm erupt, "So much for unnoticed." he says grimly to father Nicholas. "Go left I have the right. Ve gets up and starts moving to the right in the direction of the small fire set by the hydra's breath weapon. "Valdor I have no such spell, not my fortay there. I could though likely paralyze blind and deafen it. Assuming all of our companions to be good, nothing would happen to them. I also have a Daylight at your discretion my good sir." Ve pulls his hammer, which alights into a peaceful blue white glow about him as he moves.
Spells in effect: Greater Magic Weapon Magic Vestment Armor Magic Vestment Shield Endure Elements Status
Falin (AC 20 HP 63) d20+22=40 d20+22=33 Saturday September 16th, 2006 3:38:17 AM
Falin looks from the creature to the camp and back again. About a hundred feet and no doubt everyone would see the flame.
OOC:How dry is the shrubury and the grass?
Thinking through the situation Falin decides to continue to confuse and occupy the creature while waiting for the others. Would be best to use greater numbers to fell this creature.
He reaches into his pouch and draws out 5 gold coins. Instead of hitting an exact spot Falin chooses to instead toss them into the air and have them scatter around the creature. He winds up and underhands the coins into the air hoping to have them fall on and around the creature.
Hide 40 Move silently 33 DC 33 for the coins to scatter around the creature.
Aeralia Saturday September 16th, 2006 11:15:43 PM
Aeralia briefly surveys the surroundings, using the beasts fiery breath to help provide some light, if just for a few moments. Closing her eyes briefly, she comjures an image quickly in her mind, then draws magics from deep within her, as her sorcerous powers begin to work.
Opening her eyes, she glances quickly to the sky, and her gaze follows a second monstrous form as it plummets from 100 ft. overhead, crashing to the ground with a loud thud about 30 feet behind the hydra.
This second massive reptilian creature rears up on its powerful hind legs, and emits a similar ear piercing roar, then the dragon drops back down to all fours. Its large black scales glint brightly in the fire light, seemingly glowing molten hot with their creature's own fiery nature.
The creature reaks of rotting flesh and sulphur, and shivers slightly in rage as it narrows it eyes towards the hydra.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Full Round Action: Highlight to display spoiler: {Silent, Still Major Image. DC 22 to recognize as illusion when interacted with}
Gunther Sunday September 17th, 2006 12:34:28 AM
The warrior stands beside K'nara, uncertain as to just what to do. K'nara wants to charge in and be the decoy but Valdor (wisely) doesn't like the idea. He breathes a loud sigh of relief as Aeralia does her thing. His eyes scan the darkness, trying to tell whether the deception worked.
Milo d20+23=31 d20+25=38 Sunday September 17th, 2006 3:06:30 PM
Quietly, Milo rifles the stack of bills to see if there is anything out of the ordinary for this type of group. He then turns his attention to the rolled parchment, curiosity getting the better of him. (OOC: Move Silently DC 31, Hide DC 38)
Nick Monday September 18th, 2006 12:01:09 AM
Nick quickly asks those who intend to get up close to this monster to gather around while he casts HOLY AURA (+4AC,+4 resistance,SR25 evil spells - it's good for 20 folk)
He'll then veer off to the left and keep his eyes on the elves in his vicinity.
Aeralia's illusion has him astounded.
Olana Monday September 18th, 2006 12:17:46 AM
Olana talks to the elves. "Spread out into your four groups. But stay back from this thing. Pointless getting fried for nothing. We're not going to be able to chop any heads off with arrows, but we can harry and weaken the thing, give the others a better chance. Okay?"
Now what? she thinks, looking at the dragon thing, not really sure if it's real or a spell. "Acorns of Culverwood, that'd better be one of ours."
Posting Report for Monday September 18th, 2006 6:20:11 AM
Game # 1 Platinum Dragon For the week of Sept 11,2006
NAME-----MTWTF DM Jan----XXXXX Valdor----XOXOX Mordrid---XOXXX Fr.Nick---X2XXOS Dahlia----OXOXO VE Mont---XXXOX Corealot--XOXXX
ADM Ceil No comment.
(Ceil, Valdor posted once on Tuesday, twice on Thursday-SteveH)
DM Jan Monday September 18th, 2006 11:17:44 AM
(Sorry for delay folks - writing up post now.)
DM Jan Monday September 18th, 2006 11:57:16 AM
The Caravan camp - 2 orcs, Dahlia, Mordrid, Milo, Lian, Ingrge
Lian, Ingrge (?) and the two orcs set off back to base, moving quickly and quietly, leaving Mordrid and Dahlia to keep their eye on Milo in the caravan camp.
Inside the wagon, Milo sees various bills for wood, wood, more wood, horses, dried meats and fruits, along with blacksmith and metalworker bills for various kinds of weaponry and armour. Some of the dates go back about a year.
The rolled parchments look to be identical - they're posters -
SEEKING ADVENTURE? DREAMED OF FAME? FORTUNE? Want to do something good with your life? Help us rescue a city. Be a hero and become rich in the process!
See - LEFT BLANK At - LEFT BLANK
There is confusion by the campfire, and Dahlia and Mordrid overhear - "I can't hear anything," says someone, looking at the guard like he's daft. "Suit yourself," growls the guard. "I tell you. I heard a shout - up there, over the rise." The man in robes frowns, and then points. "You, you, you and you - go and investigate. And you two guards get back with the horses. There are monsters in these parts, and those nags will make a tasty meal."
Four of the men gather their weapons and set off up the rise, in the direction Lian, Ingrge(?) Birk and the other orc have taken (West).
A sudden, strong breeze ripples Lian's and Ingrge's clothing as they reach the top of the small hill. To the West - straight ahead - there looks to be a small fire burning, and there are shapes big and small moving slightly north of where their camp was. Their enhanced vision picks up a multiheaded creature and some other giant lizard.
The Talon/Platinum camp - Valdor, Cori, Bertram, the Ga'alians, the elves, the four prisoners, Borden and the remaining orcs, Olana, Nick, Gunther, Falin, Aeralia, Ve and K'Nara
Over in hydra territory, Falin can only watch in wonder at the dexterity of these creatures heads, as they whip around, trying to establish the source of the coin drop sounds. One of it's twelve long necks appears to carry two heads, perhaps proving that these things DO grow back in two's. BAM! It thrashes it's tail angrily on the ground, and it looks about to set fire to more brush. Luckily, the ground is not tinder dry, and the original fire isn't spreading.
And then - some kind of weird giant monster drops out of the sky - to the south east of Falin's position - to the north east of the other Talons/Platinums. It looks a bit like a black dragon, but is lacking those trademark horns that sweep low and around a black dragon's face. It's scales look like platelets floating on magma. For both creature and adventurer, it is a terrible thing to behold! One of the orcs lets out an expletive.
The hydra has had enough. This new creature is big, it's ugly, and it stinks. The hydra bolts toward it, in full attack mode, so much so that Aeralia is going to have to run like the wind, directly east, if she wants to keep the illusion physically away from it and intact.
For the adventurers, the elves, and the orcs, here lies both opportunity and chaos in equal measure.
((I'm going to send out a map. Just to give you an idea of placement. I know some of you have already shifted toward the beast.))
Lian (88hps, AC 37) Monday September 18th, 2006 12:34:24 PM
Running at full speed(no armor, 280ft a round), Lian looks back and sees the group following. He wants to stop and slow their advance, but its more important that all hands are on deck for the hydra.
He prepares a spell.
Active Spell: Darkness (on copper, 39mins), Silence (on copper, 4mins)
Ingrge / Dahlia d20+29=44 d20+23=40 Monday September 18th, 2006 7:10:03 PM
When the guards head away from the horses to meet with those at the fire and take their eyes off the horses she immediately unties the tie line on one side and quickly heads over to the otherside of the tie line. Even though invisible she gets out of sight as the guards return.
******
Ingrge moving back toward the camp with Lian and the others , he is taken aback by the sight of the two beasts. And something strikes his as not quite right about the black dragonish beast (Spell craft 44, Kowledge Arcana 40, **Eyesight), but he continues moving that way preparing a few possible suprisies as he goes along.
Milo d20+23=38 d20+16=31 Monday September 18th, 2006 8:27:34 PM
Taking one of the posters, Milo considers leaving, but decides that it may be better to be a little more thorough. Pulling out lock picks he proceeds to the trunks to see if they're locked. Prepared to search all three, he moves to open the first. (OOC: Open Locks DC 38 if necessary. Search DC 31.)
Corialote and Amarth 24d6(3+3+3+5+1+4+2+6+2+4+5+3+3+1+3+2+4+5+1+6+3+6+5+5)=85 Monday September 18th, 2006 9:16:47 PM
Power flows through and then out of Cori as she ends the words of power. A blast of super cold shoots to slam into the scaley beast. Shaking her head she laughs lightly. "Think it is softened up enough now." She now waits to see what the others will do, so that she knows where she fits in.
[stoneskin(Valdor) - 240minutes or 150damage] [polar ray - 85damage]
SPELLS 0th(4): detect magic(2), dancing lights(2) 1st(7): grease(2), magic missile(2), disguise self(2) 2nd(7): web(2), mirror image(2), blur(2), resist energy(fire) 3rd(7): hold person(3), major image(2), haste(2) 4th(6): stoneskin(3)*, wall of fire(2), mass enlarge person 5th(3): cone of cold(2), passwall 6th(6): greater dispel magic(2), shadow walk(2), mass bear's endurance, chain lightning 7th(6): summon monster VII(2), mass hold person, prismatic spray(2), reverse gravity 8th(4): summon monster VIII(2), polar ray(2) 9th(4): teleportation circle*, time stop, summon monster IX * used spell
K'Nara Tuesday September 19th, 2006 12:05:09 AM
"Aeralia!" K'Nara says to the sorceress. "Good move...but we're going to have to move with your illusion if it's going to lead that hydra away from our camp...I'll help you with that if you think you need someone to watch out for you along the route."
Valdor(AC37, HP 284, Stoneskin, Boots of Speed, Fire Resistance) Tuesday September 19th, 2006 12:47:34 AM
Valdor watches Cori with admiration. He sees the other beast land and swears loudly. He says,"Let's stay back. Better to let them fight it out than to run in headlong. Many of the elves may die and we haven't even gotten to the scene of the vision."
He has no idea what K'Nara is talking about as he hasn't seen an illusionist in some time and he's not aware of Aerelia's conjuration.
Falin (AC 20 HP 63) Tuesday September 19th, 2006 1:49:53 AM
"Oh my god." Is all that exits the Sharpshooters mouth as he watches the great beast fall from the sky and land on the ground near him and the creature. Falin almost smiles at the determination of the creature as it charges the huge dragon in a frontal confrontation. Too bad he would be instantly liquified by the dragon.
A thought goes through his mind. This can't be hapening yet. The others elves are not ready yet. Where are they? I should be with them right now leading them and helping to keep them together.
Falin begins to look for the other elves with little reguard for his own safety.
Gunther Tuesday September 19th, 2006 1:54:46 AM
Gunther stays firmly glued to K'nara's side. If she is determined to march with the beast to keep the illusion going, then so will he. He can't let her be in harm's way all by herself with no one to protect her...
Aeralia Tuesday September 19th, 2006 2:17:28 AM
"D@*n, it moves fast," Aeralia grumbles to herself, shifting her gaze past both the Hydra and dragon. She doesn't seem to hear K'Nara, concentrating on her spell, and the the dragon reacts to her eyesights movement, leaping into the air and propelling itself backwards away from the hydra with powerful beats of its wings, taunting the multiheaded abomination with a loud roar. The stench of decaying flesh and sulfur, and the stinging heat radiating from the beast saturate the air in the black scaled monsters wake.
Aeralia, in the mean time, starts to move off in the same direction, following her gaze east at a quick pace.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Standard Action: Maintain Concentration (move the Dragon 120' Due East, leading the hydra) Move Equivelent: 30' East
Olana Tuesday September 19th, 2006 2:19:59 AM
Olana sticks with the elves, encouraging them to keep their distance. She nocks an arrow, watching the creatures carefully. If they shifted, then she and some of the others could be right in their path. Then it would be time to unleash a volley of arrows - the hydra, she reckoned. She certainly didn't want to be the one to grab it's attention deliberately, however.
Lian Tuesday September 19th, 2006 7:31:18 AM
Moving up to the sight in front of him, the monk stops in awe.
Nick Tuesday September 19th, 2006 11:46:24 AM
Nick stays at a reasonable distance, moving to the left/east, wondering whats going to happen next. He winces as Cori shoots some kind of magic ray into the mix.
Mordrid (Long Strider) Tuesday September 19th, 2006 12:10:18 PM
There is little the ranger can do to stop the scouts from leaving the caravan camp, short of hurting or killing someone; and that was not an option.
Over the ear-piece, "Valdor, you have company coming from the caravan camp; scouts. You guys have been noticed. You also have reinforcements coming. I'm still at the camp waiting on Milo."
The ranger casts long-strider on himself, then creeps in another five feet closer to camp.
Epic Feat : Hide in Plane Sight
DM Jan Tuesday September 19th, 2006 12:26:28 PM
Talon/Platinum Camp -
Lian, Ingrge, Birk and his henchman, get the best views of what happens next. (<---- looking WEST) (Melee range 75')
The group at the camp is starting to spread out, with a smaller group (is that K'Nara, Gunther and Aeralia?) and one of the creatures, dashing EAST -----> toward them.
Then there's a sudden ZAP! as a long finger of crystalline energy appears - striking the scaly glowing creature - which then promptly disappears, leaving only the HYDRA for company.
The HYDRA grinds to a halt, and it's heads whip around. It turns to the v SOUTH, and begins to move quickly in that direction.
K'nara, Gunther, Aeralia, and right behind them - two squads of elves and Father Nicolas have about 3 tons of multi-headed mayhem running straight for them - 30' and closing into melee range.
Valdor, Bert, Cori are now 45' away to the SOUTH WEST.
Ve, Olana, the other two squads of elves and Falin are 60' directly WEST of the creature.
((Sorry about the fait accompli on the positioning, folks. But I guess we have to start somewhere.))
MEANWHILE ! -
Over at the caravan, Mordrid sees that 4 men have gone off to investigate the maybe, or maybe not, noise. Now a little closer, he sees the robed man offer the two young men who've just arrived, some coin and what looks like a potion. Dahlia loosens the ties on 10 of 32 horses before having to 'disappear'. Oddly enough - all ten - black, long-legged mares - stay exactly where they are. The guards return, unaware.
Inside the wagon, trunk #1 does not have a lock. It contains racks (about three quarters full) of tiny little bottles containing some liquid or other. The other two trunks have huge padlocks on them. One of them (#3) seems to shimmer slightly when he looks close.)
Brother Bertram 12d6(1+3+4+5+3+4+1+4+6+1+3+2)=37 Tuesday September 19th, 2006 1:32:56 PM
Bertram murmurs a prayer to Domi, and a ray of pure white light, almost too bright to look at, shoots from his hand at the creatures head(s).
(37 Damage-spell resistance will apply-but no save)
[Scott - what's the spell?]
{That would be Mark, not Scott}
(~~Jan~~ Just to add to the confusion, I think that was Scott, asking Mark, LOL. Maybe 'tis the mystery ray of doom!)
Lian (88hps, AC 37-1size, has reach) Tuesday September 19th, 2006 2:03:16 PM
He drops his Silence coin and moves beyond its range. Lian stops, turns, and plays the rear guard for the group fighting the hydra. He realizes that the hydra is not an opponent for one such as himself, a mere monk. The spellcasters are the ones who are needed here.
The monk, however, DOES have opponents more his style... the four blokes bringing up the rear behind him and Ingrge.
The Hand of Domi casts Enlarge Person and prepares his Blessed Hands[free action]. His large hands glow purple.
Active Spell: Darkness (on copper, 39mins) Silence (on copper, 4mins) Enlarge Person (4mins) Blessed Weapons (blessed hands, 4mins)
Valdor(AC37, HP 284, Stoneskin, Boots of Speed, Fire Resistance) Tuesday September 19th, 2006 2:24:29 PM
Valdor says,"Cori, time for you to move back my dear. Hold any fire spells for when we remove a head. Clerics, hold any flamestrikes until we remove a head. Then hit it on that spot! Time to party people. If you get hurt severely move back and let another take your plce while the clerics heal you!"
He moves into position on the side and waits for a head to come into range. For once, with so many other targets, he isn't the initial object of attention of the huge creature...yet.
Ve Mundr d20+31=45 d20+14=30 Tuesday September 19th, 2006 3:25:28 PM
Ve continues moving right, that is North, of the creature. At least now he can clearly see it. The great Black dragon soars in and for a moment gives him pause, but something about the smell, look or feel doesn't hit him right [Arcana 30] and soon enough he percieves the illusion. [Will 45]. Hearing Valdor, the cleric mentions off handed into the earpiece, "It is a Pyro Hydra and is immune to Fire. Simply instruct everyone to attack the main body. Leave the heads alone."
Spells in effect: Greater Magic Weapon Magic Vestment Armor Magic Vestment Shield Endure Elements Status
Ingrge / Dahlia d20+19=38 5d6(4+6+1+6+4)=21 26d6(6+3+3+4+5+3+3+5+6+4+3+3+4+6+4+3+5+5+2+5+4+2+3+2+3+30)=99 d20+28=37 d20+23=42 d20+18=34 d20+15=28 Tuesday September 19th, 2006 6:05:16 PM
Ingrge watches what is happening, sees the dragon illusion disappear and the Hydra reverse its field toward corwin and company and immediately releases the disintigrate spell he had been preparing. A thin green ray shoots quickly through his staff and straight to the beast Ranged touch AC 38; 99 points damage, Fortitude save DC 28 for 21 points SR 28
***** Dahlia
Not having expected the horses to have moved, she is not overly concerned but watches the closest guard closely and waits for an opportunity to present itself when his back is turned, and the other guard is not watching, to render him unconcious.
(Opponent is flatfooted due to invisibility)
AC 37 AC 42 AC 34
Corialote [haste] and Amarth Tuesday September 19th, 2006 6:51:01 PM
Cori growls as the image disappears and then shakes her head. "Should have known that was an illusion." She does not listen to Valor as she starts in on another spell. This one will be a little bit more useful and not a damage spell. "You need speed...you have it." She gives a slight smile not at all happy with things.
[stoneskin(Valdor) - 240minutes or 150damage] [haste - 24rounds - 24 heroes that are no more than 30' from Cori]
SPELLS 0th(4): detect magic(2), dancing lights(2) 1st(7): grease(2), magic missile(2), disguise self(2) 2nd(7): web(2), mirror image(2), blur(2), resist energy(fire) 3rd(7): hold person(3), major image(2), haste(2)* 4th(6): stoneskin(3)*, wall of fire(2), mass enlarge person 5th(3): cone of cold(2), passwall 6th(6): greater dispel magic(2), shadow walk(2), mass bear's endurance, chain lightning 7th(6): summon monster VII(2), mass hold person, prismatic spray(2), reverse gravity 8th(4): summon monster VIII(2), polar ray(2) 9th(4): teleportation circle*, time stop, summon monster IX * used spell
Aeralia [AC 12, HP 40/40] Tuesday September 19th, 2006 7:17:32 PM
Aeralia blinks as her dragon fades from sight, glancing around confused for a moment, wondering where the blast that reaveled her illusion came from. She doesn't have long to wonder though, realizing the massive hydra was bearing down upon her, and the others.
Skidding to a halt, the young sorceress chants quickly, spreading her arms widely as the magical energies swell from within her.
A slight shimmer glints between her and the hydra for just a spliit second, her magics weaving an invisible wall directly in front of the beasts path, hopefully giving it pause, for a few moments at least.
She then glances about quickly, taking in her surrounds, and see where her comrades where positioned.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Standard Action: Wall of Force. Invisible 30' x 30' wall, 10' infront of the Pyrohydra (and inbetween her and the pyrohydra).
K'Nara (AC35, HP 134/134; Cat's Grace) d100=37 Tuesday September 19th, 2006 8:57:47 PM
"Aeralia--get to the back of the group--NOW!!!" K'Nara bellows. "Anyone with distance damage spells, cast 'em NOW!" She makes sure to place herself between the oncoming hydra and the young sorceress. The redheaded blade singer looks over at Gunther.
"Got your blades ready, hotshot?" she asks with a grin. "This is going to be a bumpy ride..!"
K'Nara casts upon herself Cat's Grace while she's waiting until any magic spells hit the hydra before closing in with the nearest head in order to attack it. (OOC: she exceeded the 5% spell failure by rolling 37.)
Nick Tuesday September 19th, 2006 10:46:29 PM
Oh wonderful, thinks Nick as the beast heads their way. Hearing Valdor he nods to himself and backs up. Healing, flamestrikes. Yes, had those.
Milo d20+16=34 d20+18=34 d20+23=40 d20+25=42 d20+23=43 Tuesday September 19th, 2006 11:07:20 PM
Milo immediately turns his attention to the lock that shimmers thinking, Hmmm... protected with magic. Must be important. The halfling tends to that lock first, looking to disarm possible traps before he takes out a pick to open it up. (OOC: Search check DC 34 [9th level spells or lower found],Disable Device DC 34 [9th level spells or lower disabled], Open Locks DC 40, Hide DC 42, Move Silently DC 43)
Valdor(AC37, HP 284, Stoneskin, Boots of Speed, Fire Resistance, Haste) Wednesday September 20th, 2006 2:20:56 AM
Valdor seems slightly surprised and actually cocks his head sideways and asks,"How do you know it's a Pyro Hydra? I've never actually faced one of those. That would be a nasty combination. How do you seal the heads off if you remove one...with ice spells? Or just cold water?"
His last question was hardly a jest, even though he asked it as such. There is concern on his face and he finishes with,"Well, if fire won't work, figure something else out and let everyone know. I'll attack the body, if I can avoid being squashed!"
He's holding his attack until it is close enough so he doesn't get attacked by multiple heads.
Ve Mundr AC 43 HP 224 Wednesday September 20th, 2006 11:18:57 AM
With the hydra charging south, Ve turns and heads now south in it's wake. He keeps himself defensive minded and closes 20'.
Ve answers Valdor quickly, "I've studied Magical Beasts quite a bit. The red tinge and bush taht suddenly caught fire tipped me off. Ice spells would likely do it, but we can slay the beast without lopping off heads and needing to worry about it. They heal quickly but do not regenerate. So once it dies it is dead."
The cleric calmly continues, "The hydra is inconvenient, a larger concern is Mordrid's statement that the caravan knows of us and we are about to meet them in full glory so to speak. We need to recall the 'scout team'. The caravan will likely take a very dim view of us for spying on them." A dark thought flickers across his mind, "The rogues do know they are only to listen and gather info right?"
Spells in effect: Greater Magic Weapon Magic Vestment Armor Magic Vestment Shield Endure Elements Status
Olana Wednesday September 20th, 2006 11:48:21 AM
"Run back!" Olana yells at the elves. "Get some distance and then start firing!"
She does the same, running 30 ft, and will be ready to fire the next round.
Lian (88hps, AC 37-1size, has reach) Wednesday September 20th, 2006 11:54:17 AM
The monk stands in place and looks at the men quickly approaching. "Don't you have someplace else to be?"
Active Spell: Darkness (on copper, 39mins) Silence (on copper, 4mins) Enlarge Person (4mins) Blessed Weapons (blessed hands, 4mins)
Valdor Wednesday September 20th, 2006 12:04:38 PM
Valdor booms out,"Aim for the body, not the heads! We must attack from all sides to keep it stationary. We hit it hard and fast, no indecision here people! Clerics spread out and keep an eye out for any who need healing!"
He says into his earpiece,"Mordrid, we need some time to kill this hydra. Make sure noone engages the caravan or we're fighting on two fronts."
Jerry Wednesday September 20th, 2006 12:14:10 PM
Would the ADM of the Emerald Talons please email me when the report for last week's posting is up? thanks.
DM Jan d4=1 d4=1 (sweet!) 3d6(2+3+3)=8 3d6(6+2+5)=13 3d6(4+4+2)=10 3d6(4+4+3)=11 3d6(3+1+1)=5 3d6(2+3+5)=10 3d6(4+3+3)=10 3d6(5+6+2)=13 3d6(5+6+1)=12 3d6(6+3+2)=11 3d6(4+6+2)=12 3d6(4+3+4)=11 3d6(2+4+5)=11 Wednesday September 20th, 2006 1:39:28 PM
SURROUNDING THE CREATURE -
As the HYDRA charges in, the group responds by going on the attack in various forms.
The dark sky flashes in a myriad of colours as a volley of spells are brought to bear! Bertram's ray of white light! A thin, elegant ray of green from Ingrge's staff!
And here, it becomes apparent that two out of Ve Mundr's three observations are correct -
- The giant figure of Lian in the near distance to the east suggests that something is coming from that direction.
- The burning shrub, and the dark red sheen on the beast's flank point to the creature being a pyro hydra. That certainly suggests fire immunity.
However, as the spells play along the hydra's flanks and do absolutely nothing.... then there's maybe something else in its makeup, too.
As some of the others try to get close enough to chop something off, Aeralia's startling illusory wall springs up. The HYDRA screeches it's displeasure and digs all four limbs into the ground. It lowers its heads in preparation for impact..... and s.. l.. i.. d.. e.. s... BAM!! right upagainst the wall of force .
In it's frustration, the creature opens its 13 mouths and blasts away with its firey breath.
The sky is lit up once more as snakes of fire hit the WALL of Force and slay outward.
From K'Nara, Valdor, Gunther, and Aeralia's point of view, it's like the fire is coming straight at them and then suddenly diverts upward to the side.
MEANWHILE!
Up on the ridge, four men slow as they approach Ingrge and the now enormous Lian. They've seen Ingrge's staff at work, and pointed in the opposite direction, so right now, they're more curious than afraid. "We're from the camp. Who YOU people?" one of them yells in response to Lian's question. The bellowing of the creature can be heard by everyone here.
MEANWHILE!
Dahlia's guard slumps to the ground after letting out a soft "Oook..." From Mordrid's position, he can see the flash of green and white from Bertram and Ingrge's spells. And now everyone else in the camp is looking in that direction.
Milo's expertise is more than a match for the protective casings and locks on the trunk. Inside? Money, money, money - all gold coins.
THIS POST HAS BEEN EDITED BY THE DM.
Mordrid (longstrider / cat's grace) Wednesday September 20th, 2006 4:24:41 PM
Mordrid turns to face the sky behind. It looks like an aurora borialis. 'My god... what a circus.'
Beneath his breath, "ok Milo... let's get out of here."
Mordrid closes another 5 feet and casts cat's grace on himself.
OOC: Matt T. Wednesday September 20th, 2006 5:30:53 PM
(Jan. That was a wall of Force, not an illusion. Barring any sort of Disintegration, it shouldn't be able to harm it at all, and should just "bounce off". Nor would it have been able to see it, so it should be trying to charge right through it?)
Gunther (AC31(32 vs. Hydra), HP 106/106), Enlarge Person Wednesday September 20th, 2006 8:35:30 PM
Gunther grimaces. He can't believe he didn't see that coming. His sword out in a heartbeat (glove of storing) and his shield floating in front of him, the warrior fishes in his backpack and pulls out a potion gulping it down quickly (Enlarge Person). Growing to humongous portions, Gunther grins over at the diminutive K'nara. "No problem little lady."
Spells in place Enlarge Person 30rds/30rds.
Brother Bertram Wednesday September 20th, 2006 8:44:46 PM
Bertram clucks his tongue in frustration at the obvious lack of results of the spell.(Searing Light btw -Sorry) He grips his axe and prepares for doing this the hard way.
Milo d20+25=42 d20+23=35 Wednesday September 20th, 2006 8:57:48 PM
Seeing the gold makes Milo's eye twitch. You can buy a lot of muscle with that, the halfling thinks to himself. Time to go! Quick as a wink, Milo snaps the padlock shut, after quietly closing the trunk. Poster in hand, Milo quickly exits the wagon, and then clicking his heels together on his boots of speed, finds the quickest unobstructed, and yet hidden path back to the group. (OOC: Hide DC 42, Move Silently DC 35)
Ingrge / Dahlia d20+20=35 d8+6=12 d6=4 d20+25=38 Wednesday September 20th, 2006 9:20:35 PM
Quite surprised by the fact that his disintigrate spell didn't have any effect, Ingrge ponders things for a moment and then quickly draws his bow (move action) taking quick aim he sends a single arrow flying toward the body of the many headed beast. As they are addressed by the four new peeps, he simply says. "We are in all likelihood your saviors." That said he again turns toward the beast and readies some more arrows.
AC 35 for 12 points and 4 points of frost damage.
******
Taking adavntage of the distractions from Ingrge and company, Dahlia quietly makes her way back to next to the other horse guard.
Move silently DC 38
Corialote [haste] and Amarth d4+1=2 d4+1=3 d4+1=5 d4+1=5 d4+1=2 Wednesday September 20th, 2006 11:33:19 PM
Not at all disturbed by the results so far of magic she decides to test out different things. She pulls a wand from the pocket of the pants that she wears and sends a volley of missiles at the pyro. "Lets see what type of immunities it has." This maybe a lot harder than she had first thought.
[stoneskin(Valdor) - 240minutes or 150damage] [haste - 23rounds - 24 heroes that are no more than 30' from Cori] [wand of magic missile - 17damage - 48charges]
SPELLS 0th(4): detect magic(2), dancing lights(2) 1st(7): grease(2), magic missile(2), disguise self(2) 2nd(7): web(2), mirror image(2), blur(2), resist energy(fire) 3rd(7): hold person(3), major image(2), haste(2)* 4th(6): stoneskin(3)*, wall of fire(2), mass enlarge person 5th(3): cone of cold(2), passwall 6th(6): greater dispel magic(2), shadow walk(2), mass bear's endurance, chain lightning 7th(6): summon monster VII(2), mass hold person, prismatic spray(2), reverse gravity 8th(4): summon monster VIII(2), polar ray(2)* 9th(4): teleportation circle*, time stop, summon monster IX * used spell
K'Nara (AC35, HP 134/134; Cat's Grace) d100=10 d100=10 Thursday September 21st, 2006 12:00:08 AM
K'Nara's hazel eyes blink at the very close call thwarted by the invisible barrier between the group and the hydra.
The pyro hydra.
"Lucia!" she calls out, turning off her sword's fiery aura. Then she turns to Gunther, uttering a spell and gesturing at him. The big cat trainer can feel the magic boosting his own dexterity. (OOC: K'Nara rolled a 10 to beat her 5% Spell Failure rate; Gunther's Dexterity now has +4 points added to it--this will raise his AC by +2.)
Falin (AC 20 HP 63) d20+34=48 d20+29=40 d20+24=35 d8+5=6 d8+5=10 d8+5=11 Thursday September 21st, 2006 7:37:06 AM
Cursing himself for his poor reaction to the situation Falin shakes the clouds from his mind and aims at the creature.
Falin draws back, takes aim, and fires.
AC 48 DMG 6 AC 40 DMG 10 AC 35 DMG 11
Lian (88hps, AC 37-1size, has reach) Thursday September 21st, 2006 8:49:42 AM
"This is no place for you." The monk says simply, not sure how to handle the inquisitive quartet. Lian also wonders, in passing, where his silence coin lay. Obviously some distance away by the sounds of it.
Active Spell: Darkness (on copper, 39mins) Silence (on copper, 4mins) Enlarge Person (4mins) Blessed Weapons (blessed hands, 4mins)
Nick Thursday September 21st, 2006 12:47:50 PM
"Blessed Alemi," mutters Nick as the creature starts spewing out flames. He'd taken an involuntary step back and was feeling a bit foolish. Still, he hadn't known the force wall was there.
He keeps his eyes on the creature, wondering what it will do next.
Olana Thursday September 21st, 2006 12:50:46 PM
"That was close..." growls Olana to no one in particular. "How intelligent are these things?" she shouts.
With a bit of luck the wall spell would have it baffled, but then you could never tell.
DM Jan Thursday September 21st, 2006 2:05:50 PM At the Caravan -
Milo exits the wagon and makes his way quietly out of there. He spots Mordrid, waiting for him, but there's no sign of the others.
Dahlia is approaching the other guard over by the horses. The guard's attention seems to be on what's happening, up over the rise.
Perhaps with all the distant 'son et lumiere' going on up there, the robed man is now barking out orders.
"Check everything! Secure the perimeter! Arm yourselves!"
To the west, on top of the slight hill -
Lian is still confronting the four men who've come to investigate, while Ingrge attempts to employ other tactics. The men look at one another after Ingrge's 'Saviours' comment. It's another line of conversation, which appears to break the ice a little more. "Is that a spell?" one of the men asks Lian, staring up at his giant size. Another says "Can we help - we have a lot more men back there, down in the camp."
MEANWHILE -
The hydra has stopped, and is looking at the area right in front of it. The heads move quickly left and right. One of them stretches forward and tups at the invisible barrier. It starts to move in an easterly direction, occasionally tapping the forcefield with one of it's heads.
Right now, Valdor, K'Nara, Gunther, Aeralia, Nick, Bertram, Borden and four of his men, and two squads of elves are in front of the beast and protected.
"How far does that magic wall extend?" asks Borden. He looks at his men. "Bring out your sharpest weapons. There looks to be only one way to skin this critter, and we need to move fast, before it gets its breath back."
He and the four other orcs begin to run parallel with the hydra.
Behind the hydra, are Falin, two more groups of elves and Ve Mundr. It hasn't noticed any of them, despite being clonked harmlessly on the flanks with Falin's arrows. Ingrge's distant arrow of frost also makes no impression whatsoever on the creature's magical hide.
Aeralia (AC 12, HP 40/40) Thursday September 21st, 2006 2:31:23 PM
Aeralia squints her eyes as the hyrda begins to test the wall, slowly moving east. She knows the barrier isn't much furth past its massive frame, and so it wouldn't be of much help once it tests its limitation, infact, it might be a hinderance.
"Thirty feet total!" Aeralia hollers over her shoulder, hearing Borden's question, as they start to move along the wall.
However, she had a remedy that might work for the hinderence, plus give pause to the beast once more. Chanting quickly, hints of dark shadows converge before the hydra breifly, then a large burst of glittering gold specs explode directly in front of the massive creatures many heads, covering it and the wall of force in a glinting powder.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Standard Action: Cast 'Shadow Conjuration: Glitterdust'. 10' radius spread, centered on the hydra. DC 23 Will save to realize its a shadow illusion. If failed, then DC 23 Will save or Blinded. If first is successful, then 20% chance of a required DC 23 Will save or blinded.
(Also the Glitterdust should outline the Wall of Force's edge, since invisible creatures and objects are revealed)
Valdor(AC37, HP 284, Stoneskin, Boots of Speed, Fire Resistance, Haste, Cloak of Arachnid) Thursday September 21st, 2006 4:51:51 PM
Valdor activates his cloak and takes off running trying to pace the beast. He doesn't want the orcs to have all the fun. He does want to watch them fight, especially Borden, in case they become foes later. His sword is still sheathed, so he doesn't have its weight affecting his balance as he runs. He tries to outdistance K'Nara and Gunther as he doesn't want them dead. He knows Gunther's size will now draw the Hydra's attention.
Ve Mundr AC 44 HP 224 Thursday September 21st, 2006 5:21:26 PM
Ve pulls his helmet on, Looks like a more difficult problem then "Valdor looks like we may have to destroy this hydra head at a time. I would suggest bludgeoning weapons and I am going to move in on it. Keep it distracted for just another few seconds."
Ve casts Rightous Might and grows to an impressive 12'. The Protector then concentrates for a smallest of moments enacting Freedom of Movement [cast Quicken Freedom of Movement]
Spells in effect: Greater Magic Weapon Magic Vestment Armor Magic Vestment Shield Endure Elements Status Righteous Might 22 rounds Freedom of Movement 220 minutes
Mordrid (longstrider / cats grace) Thursday September 21st, 2006 6:23:02 PM
Mordrid comes out of the darkness as Milo approaches. Waving him forward, the ranger takes off into the night. "Dahlia, we are exiting the camp."
The ranger tunes in to the banter coming over the ear-pieces, trying to imagine what is going on up ahead. Using long-strider the ranger covers vast ground quickly.
Dahlia / Ingrge d20+23=42 d6+4=9 Thursday September 21st, 2006 7:35:16 PM
Dahlia quickly answers back, Ok but you are just spoiling all my fun. Are we aiming for the fiery beasty? Assuming they are Dahlia makes her move that way trying to think of something that she has that might harm it.
*******
Having tried his magical bow and arrows and seen no effect from them either Ingrge quickly puts them away and seeing that it has slowed down testing the wall but heading his way tries yet another delaying tactic and casts another spell. Suddenly the Hydra finds itself surrounded and being pummled and grasped by the first section of a literal field of black rubbery tentacles 5 feet behind him and 15 feet in front of him. Grapple Dc 42. If grappled takes 9 points bludgeoning damage. Even if not grappled must move at 1/2 speed.
K'Nara (AC35, HP 134/134; Cat's Grace) d20+20=35 d10+9=13 Thursday September 21st, 2006 10:20:25 PM
K'Nara squints and moves around to flank the hydra on its easternmost side. She realizes that Borden is correct--the time to get to that beastie is before it can get its flame back.
K'Nara runs to her intended position in order to try to attack the pyrohydra before it can breathe fire again...
(OOC: not 100% sure if K'Nara is actually close enough to do this, but she is obviously running to her intended position, and will attempt one attack at the end of the move [provided she's close enough]. Her attack hits AC35 for 13hpd...and, no, she's NOT aiming for any of the heads.)
Corialote [haste] and Amarth Thursday September 21st, 2006 11:29:05 PM
Cori taps the wand in her free hand and mutters. "Must be defective...did not even see any effects from the thing." So she decides to change tactics and support the group as best she can.
She once again falls back into her arcane powers and calls up help from the earth itself. She starts to call upon the help of a elder earth elemental.
[stoneskin(Valdor) - 240minutes or 150damage] [haste - 23rounds - 24 heroes that are no more than 30' from Cori] [wand of magic missile - 17damage - 48charges]
SPELLS 0th(4): detect magic(2), dancing lights(2) 1st(7): grease(2), magic missile(2), disguise self(2) 2nd(7): web(2), mirror image(2), blur(2), resist energy(fire) 3rd(7): hold person(3), major image(2), haste(2)* 4th(6): stoneskin(3)*, wall of fire(2), mass enlarge person 5th(3): cone of cold(2), passwall 6th(6): greater dispel magic(2), shadow walk(2), mass bear's endurance, chain lightning 7th(6): summon monster VII(2), mass hold person, prismatic spray(2), reverse gravity 8th(4): summon monster VIII(2), polar ray(2)* 9th(4): teleportation circle*, time stop, summon monster IX * used spell
Jan - Did my magic missiles from the wand have any effect at all? :)
(~~Jan~~ Ack, sorry Jim. I caught the spell, forgot to write it up in my post. No effect. Magic, particularly anything firey will just bounce off this thing.)
Gunther (AC33(34 vs. Hydra), HP 106/106), Enlarge Person, Cat's Grace, Fly Friday September 22nd, 2006 12:22:26 AM
The gigantic warrior tingles at K'nara's magical touch. He reaches into his backpack once more and pulls out another potion. Then, calling out the magical password, he activates his celestial armor's fly ability. He doesn't take to flight just yet but is getting ready. Looking the thing over, Gunther isn't sure what all the fuss is about. He thinks through his strategy and finally decides on attacking the back of the creature's neck once he's fully buffed.
Falin (AC 20 HP 63) Friday September 22nd, 2006 2:14:24 AM
Falin shakes his head. No effect, his arrows are having no effect. He definitely needs to look at getting some magic arrows.
"My arrows are having no effect," Falin cries out to the others.
Not wanting the elves to waste their ammunition and not run the risk of running into hand to hand quite yet he has them hold their positions and watch to see if anything else approaches.
He waits to see if there is another way he can help.
Milo Friday September 22nd, 2006 2:44:52 AM
Knowing that he cannot keep up his current speed for long, Milo allows himself to drop back into his normal halfling pace, and simply sprint along behind Mordrid as best he can. However, he has no illusions about being able to keep up with the long-legged human.
Brother Bertram Friday September 22nd, 2006 11:11:27 AM
Bertram grips his axe and carefully looks the beast over. 'Forget the heads, take out its legs! If it cant walk its power is diminished greatly! Bertram runs to the edge of the glittering wall that is stopping the creature and hunkers down hoping to look rather unobtrusive as the creature moves around the edge.
Lian (88hps, AC 37-1size, has reach) Friday September 22nd, 2006 11:13:08 AM
For a moment the monk ponders the question of help, looks at the men and doesn't hesitate. "You have archers or infantry?" He moves back toward the men. "I'll tell you about the spell later. Do you need help sorting things out at the camp?" The monk is eager to get help for the others. "Yes, I'll accept your help. Bring archers and pikemen if you can... its a pyro hydra. Bring that wizard of yours too."
Active Spell: Darkness (on copper, 39mins) Silence (on copper, 4mins) Enlarge Person (4mins) Blessed Weapons (blessed hands, 4mins)
Valdor(AC37, HP 284, Stoneskin, Boots of Speed, Fire Resistance, Haste, Cloak of Arachnid) Friday September 22nd, 2006 6:38:06 PM
Valdor says loudly and with his earring activated,"Arrows aren't working. It seems it will take melee weapons, though we haven't gotyen near it yet for that. Mordrid, you might try one arrow if you get back in time. If anyone can hit it, you're the man. Falin, get those elves back. They'll get slaughtered if they can't use their arrows. Stay hidden, in case the caravan decides it wants a fight. THEY won't be immune from our arrows."
DM Jan Friday September 22nd, 2006 9:28:30 PM
((Guys, sorry the post is late. Migraine. Head's getting better. I'll post tonight.))
K'Nara (AC35, HP 134/134; Cat's Grace) Saturday September 23rd, 2006 12:14:56 AM
K'Nara maneuvers herself to flank the pyrohydra on its eastern side, attacking once if she can. (OOC: see previous post for rolls.)
Olana Saturday September 23rd, 2006 12:25:35 AM
Olana pulls her longsword and follows the others as they go to meet the hydra. This shouldn't be a problem, right? With this group, a few swift chops and we're done.
"Stand back!" she tells the two groups of elves.
Nick Saturday September 23rd, 2006 12:36:51 AM Blessed Alemi watch over us and keep us from harm. May good always triumph over evil, may evil's blood be purified, may this creature rest in peace in the afterlife...
Casting PRAYER - +1 ATTACK ETC ETC
Nick stays to the rear of those dashing alongside but he wants to stay close enough to cast his healing spells if needed.
DM Jan 3d6(5+4+1)=10 3d6(5+2+4)=11 3d6(4+5+2)=11 Saturday September 23rd, 2006 1:46:49 AM To the west, on top of the slight hill -
On the approach to the top of the rise, Mordrid can see the giant figure of Lian and the more diminutive Ingrge. They have been joined by the four men from the camp, and everyone up there seems to have their attention on what's going on to the west on the other side of the hill. Ingrge's hands are moving.
Further behind, Milo and Dahlia get the same picture - only smaller because of the distance.
One of the men up there is nodding his head, about to answer in the affirmative to Lian when -
Down the hill - there's a flashing cascade of gold sparks, illuminating the immediate area, and just for one moment, the full extent of what is going on, is completely visible to those stood watching.
At that moment, forgetting Lian utterly, all four men are riveted to the spot, staring down onto the plain below. The hydra is a monster! Massive, and a terror to behold! Startled, the creature has reared up on it's hind legs. It's heads are in perpetual motion. Something black and writhing has risen out of the ground and has a hold of it's hindquarters, and close by - the earth is rising, shaping itself into something unimaginable. A large group of blade-wielding maniacs are closing in on the beast, and coming in from the north side is a monsterous, towering, fully armoured man.
The men give a collective gasp. Before them was the beginnings of a display of power and magic the likes of which they'd never seen before. For here were possibly the two most powerful adventuring groups in the Wold, rushing to meet this formidable creature the only way they knew best. Not many could lay claim to seeing such a sight, certainly not your average Woldian anyway.
"Warrd's lucky amulet! Did you see that??" "They have archers, too - did you see those?" "What the $#*% IS that thing - a hydra??" To Lian again - "Who ARE you people?"
The light dissipates, the battleground is plunged into darkness once more. Instead,the air comes alive with sound - an ear-shredding scream from the creature followed by the roar of an orc battle cry.
Then the sky lights up again, this time an angry red.
Down in HYDRA country -
Things happen so fast it's hard to keep tabs of it all. There's an acrid stench in the immediate area coming from tendrils of smoke after the unleashing of the hydra's breath weapon. Aeralia's spell has startled the creature, and the thing has reared up. Ingrge's tentacle spell has it held by the hindquarters, so it can not move from it's current spot. Cori's elemental begins to take shape on the ground nearby.
Nick finds himself alongside the Ga'alian cleric, Brother Michael who has also stepped forward into melee range. "May our Gods protect us," says the man.
Valdor, K'nara, Olana, Nick, Bertram, Ve, Borden and his henchmen are now in melee range. Borden and the orcs let loose a battle howl and dash forward.
Confused by the spell, the creature reacts by roaring it's displeasure from all thirteen mouths. And Borden's fears are realized, as the creature blasts out with it's breath weapon once more. It's a purely defensive measure, a reflex blast aimed anywhere and everywhere.
While some of it goes up into the sky, or flies over everyone's heads, K'Nara, right up close and already engaging the beast, gets a stream of fire directly at her from one of the heads. (DAM 10) One of Borden's men cops for another (DAM 11) , and one flies inbetween Valdor and Bertram and hits Father Nicholas. (DAM 11)
Right before getting blasted, K'nara notices one thing. Her blade hacks into the flank of the creature. It's skin is as tough as boiled leather. However, higher up - along the neck, the skins seems softer, allowing for more flexibility.
((Okay folks - 13 heads. Pick one. Borden and his boys have 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5))
Lian (88hps, AC 37-1size, has reach) Saturday September 23rd, 2006 8:07:10 AM
The monk hardly notices the four men's questions, but one fills his ears. Who ARE you people?
The hand of Domi looks nervously back over his shoulder at the situation unraveling behind him and the quartet.
"My group is called the Emerald Talons, though some might call us the Heroes of the Culverwood. The group, and our partners in this battle, are known as the Platnum Dragons. I am Lian."
Lian notices the shock in their eyes and lack of movement; he decides to get their attention. "HEY! Over here!? This is NO time to lose your minds. Your archers..." He directs one of the men. "The wizard from the wagon..." He directs another. "You two round up as many footmen as possible.
Fight alongside the Dragon Consortium and be famous! Be heroes." He adds as the inspiration hits him suddenly.
Active Spell: Darkness (on copper, 39mins) Silence (on copper, 4mins) Enlarge Person (4mins) Blessed Weapons (blessed hands, 4mins)
Corialote [haste] and Amarth d20+28=41 d20+28=31 2d10(4+4)+12=20 2d10(8+1)+12=21 Saturday September 23rd, 2006 7:15:07 PM
Cori takes off along the wall so that she can get to a place somewhere on the other side. She is going to keep her distance and try a few more spells as her newest friend takes the time to help in softening up this hydra.
The elder earth elemental looks down upon the hydra with a blank look. It is still fifteen feet from the hydra but more than able to slam the creature. Big arms pull back and slam in at the hydra with the force of the Wold herself.
[stoneskin(Valdor) - 240minutes or 150damage] [haste - 22rounds - 24 heroes that are no more than 30' from Cori] [wand of magic missile - 17damage - 48charges]
SPELLS 0th(4): detect magic(2), dancing lights(2) 1st(7): grease(2), magic missile(2), disguise self(2) 2nd(7): web(2), mirror image(2), blur(2), resist energy(fire) 3rd(7): hold person(3), major image(2), haste(2)* 4th(6): stoneskin(3)*, wall of fire(2), mass enlarge person 5th(3): cone of cold(2), passwall 6th(6): greater dispel magic(2), shadow walk(2), mass bear's endurance, chain lightning 7th(6): summon monster VII(2), mass hold person, prismatic spray(2), reverse gravity 8th(4): summon monster VIII(2), polar ray(2)* 9th(4): teleportation circle*, time stop, summon monster IX* * used spell
K'Nara (AC35, HP 134/124; Cat's Grace) d20+20=39 d20+20=38 d10+9=15 d10+9=15 d20+15=27 d10+9=13 Saturday September 23rd, 2006 9:27:49 PM
The blade singer hisses at the sudden pain prompted by the pyrohydra's breath of fire and suppresses her instinct to recoil. She notes that the neck makes for a much more tempting target.
But one isn't supposed to hack off the head of a hydra...
...pierce? Stab? Yes, if she took care to plunge her sword into the beast in a stabbing motion rather than a hacking one, K'Nara could avoid chopping a head off...
Spinning and weaving, the human female used her expertise as a blade singer to launch stabbing attacks upon the hydra's softer-skinned neck.
(OOC: I'm assuming that K'Nara is stabbing into the base of the neck of Head #6; first strike is a possible Critical Hit: first roll hits AC39, second roll hits AC38; regular damage is 15hp, Crit Hit damage total is 30hp. Second strike hits AC27 for 13hpd.)
Gunther (AC36(37 vs. Hydra), HP 106/106), Enlarge Person, Cat's Grace, Fly, Barkskin +3 Saturday September 23rd, 2006 10:21:07 PM
Gulp, gulp, gulp. Gunther drinks down his potion (Barkskin). Watching K'nara, Gunther flys up and positions himself behind the heads. Sword in hand, Gunther readies himself for a full attack next round.
Ve Mundr AC 44 HP 224 d20+28=44 d20+28=41 d20+23=38 d20+18=24 d20+13=27 2d6(2+6)+13=21 2d6(2+2)+13=17 2d6(1+6)+13=20 2d6(2+4)+13=19 2d6(5+4)+13=22 Saturday September 23rd, 2006 11:08:01 PM
Ve steps in activating his boots of Speed as the tentacles fall off him like water due to his spell of protection. The Brillant blue white hammer in his right hand blurs through the air leaving a trail of light as it speeds into the hydra. "Domi!" the battle cry upon his lips as the hammer strikes home with thuderous impact. [Hit AC 44/41/38/24/27 Brilliant energy ignores Armor and natural armor Dmg 21/17/20/19/22]
Ve will start with head 8 and then progress to 9 and and then 10.
Spells in effect: Greater Magic Weapon Magic Vestment Armor Magic Vestment Shield Endure Elements Status Righteous Might 20 rounds Freedom of Movement 220 minutes Haste 10 rounds
Ingrge / Dahlia d20+15=30 10d6(4+4+4+6+1+4+1+4+1+5)=34 Sunday September 24th, 2006 10:35:05 PM
Ingrge again thinking starts casting almost immediatlety even as he notes that the beast is partially ensnared by his previous spell. Sending magical energies diretly at the Hydra, Ingrge casts flesh to stone hoping to do a little beautification project in this part of the world. Fort DC 25 or be turned to stone. SR 30 also negates
****
Dahlia moves to within range and sends a bolt of lightening straight at the beast. 34 points, Reflex Dc 22 for 17 points.
Valdor(AC37, HP 284, Stoneskin, Boots of Speed, Fire Resistance, Haste, Cloak of Arachnid, Prayer) d20+38=56 d20+38=50 d20+37=56 d20+37=43 d20+33=50 d20+33=37 d20+32=51 d20+32=49 d20+28=47 d20+28=33 d20+27=29 d12+19=30 d12+19=21 d12+19=27 d12+19=22 d12+19=31 d12+19=31 d12+19=28 d12+19=25 d12+19=21 d12+19=23 d12+19=31 Sunday September 24th, 2006 11:24:27 PM
Valdor uses his held action to attempt to take the forxe of the fire that's about to hit Father Nicholas. With his added speed, he shifts to the side and decides it's a competition to see who kills the most heads. It's the mages and clerics jobs to keep them from growing back. He yells out,"A thousand gold to whoever cuts the most heads off! Ve, what keeps a pyro's heads from growing back?"
He then makes sure that he's in sight of Borden on the side as he becomes a whirlwind of swords, hacking at as many as he can get within reach of. He ignores the body and yells,"If we can't keep them from growing back, maybe we can grow back so many, it falls over and can't move! I've got the backside heads!"
(AC 56, 50, 56, 43, 50, 37, 51, 49, 47, 33, 29 FOR 30+21+26+21+31+31+27+24+21+23+30=285 possible damage-5 possible crits)
(Jan, is this classified as a dragon type creature? If so, Valdor has +3 more to attacks)
Poating Reports for Monday September 25th, 2006 6:53:09 AM
Game # 1 Platinum Dragons For the week of Sept 18, 2006
Name-----MTWTF DM Jan---XXXXXS Valdore--X22XXS Mordrid--OXXXO Fr.Nick--X2XXx Dahlia---XXXXOS VE Mont--OXXXOS Corealot-XXXXOS
Adm Ceil - Jerry if Adm Joe can make a Post for the two games that are going on in his game!! I should be able to do the same curticy for the emeral Tallons.
Mordrid (longstrider, cats grace) Monday September 25th, 2006 11:06:47 AM
As Mordrid comes sprinting over the hill, he springs himself into the air; simultaneously activiating his armor of the celestial battalion, so that he takes flight as the hill drops out below him.
Swinging his sunsword above his head, he activates the initial stage of it's sunlight function. As if a flare had been launched into the nightsky, the sword begins to illuminate the battle raging on below.
He will land next to Valdor on the field of battle, where he will immediately begin to fend off all and any attacks directed at Valdor; sunsword in one hand, short sword in the other. (One this turn... six parries the following turn.) The two working in bloody harmony, as Valdor takes it to the beast. "You fight, I'll defend!"
[I'm away from my character sheet. I'll roll die and provide stats when I get home.]
Lian (88hps, AC 37-1size, has reach) Monday September 25th, 2006 11:37:18 AM
The elf hurries the men to arms. "Move it!" He says, large hands still aglow.
Active Spell: Darkness (on copper, 39mins) Silence (on copper, 4mins) Enlarge Person (4mins) Blessed Weapons (blessed hands, 4mins)
Brother Bertram d20+18=23 d20+13=25 d10+8=18 d10+8=14 Monday September 25th, 2006 2:54:17 PM
Bertram moves quickly under the beast and swings his axe savagely at the underbelly of the beast, hoping to find a tender spot to spill the beasts entrails from underneath. He says a prayer as he swings, hoping it is enough, and immediately swinging back in the other direction, trying for another chance to disable the beast. (Hit AC 23, 25. Damage 18, 14
Olana d20+14=30 d10+3=13 Monday September 25th, 2006 5:56:37 PM
Olana lets out an "AAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!" and takes an almost vertical swing at Head #11.
Hits DC 30 Dam 13
Nick Monday September 25th, 2006 6:03:39 PM
Nick stares at the creature, oblivious to Brother Michael's presence, wondering if there's anything that could be done magically. He's never come up against a hydra before so this was going to be a tough learning process.
Watch for damage, concentrate on healing, he thinks. He edges closer.
DM Jan 3d6(5+3+6)=14 3d6(3+6+5)=14 3d6(2+6+5)=13 3d6(3+6+3)=12 3d6(3+3+6)=12 Monday September 25th, 2006 7:20:10 PM Up on the hill -
One of the men says - "I'll go tell the others!" The other three remain with Lian. It looks as though they're prepared to join him in battle and start to follow him. Lian overhears one of the men say to another - "Give me one of those potions. I n-need it." His hands are shaking, although there is no inflection of fear in his voice. Milo and Dahlia are now at the top of the hill also, where they find Ingrge blasting away with all he's got, and Lian trying to rally these new troops. (They've seen 1 guy running back toward the camp.)
Down in Hydra country -
The elves are staying crouched low, in their groups. They look both nervous and frustrated, that they are unable to to do anything to help.
The black tentacles still grip firmly at the HYDRA's lower quarters and now Cori's ELEMENTAL is starting to pound on it. It's like pounding on rubber. Valdor absorbs the damage meant for Nick.
Blades flash in the light of Mordrid's sunsword, and cries of battle can be heard at the top of the hill as everyone attacks the heads.
Head #1 - "%$*&^!" exclaims one of the Orc 1 as he swings and misses.
Head #2 - Orc 2 yells out a different expletive as he hits - but the head doesn't come off.
Head #3 - Orc 3 also hits, but the head doesn't come off.
Head #4 - Orc 4 takes a massive swing with a rather nasty looking axe, and head #4 is hacked off. It falls with a thud, right next to Bertram.
Head #5 - Borden swings a longsword in a perfectly angled arc - swish! - and head #5 drops - right next to Bertram.
Head #6 - K'Nara's blade is expertly wielded, and steel slams in and through the creature's neck, dislodging the vertebrae. The head flops to one side, hanging on by skin, which is beginning to tear.
Head #7
Head #8 - Ve's mighty hammer of Domi whacks against head #8, ripping the head clean off the neck and sending it flying off into the air. After a spectacular arc - the head lands with a thud about 20ft away from Lian, Ingrge, Milo and Dahlia (and the three men from the camp).
Head #9 - Ve's hammer gves it a substantial bruising.
Head #10 - WHAP - the head comes off, cleanly, efficiently, thanks to Valdor's swords, and drops to the ground - right next to Bertram.
Head #11 - Olana's blade slices into the neck. It's a wound, but not a decapitation. However, Valdor's blades take care of it, and head #11 drops to the ground - right next to Bertram.
Head #12 + Head #13 - on the same neck, these two also fall, both victims to the Dragonstone's blades, and drop - right next to Bertram.
Right at the foot of the creature, Bertram's axe bites hard into the hydra's underbelly with all the blessings of Domi behind the blows. The blade pierces the epidermis on both occasions, but that's as far as it seems to go. It's a tough rascal. The dwarf finds himself thigh deep in decapitated hydra heads, while the air around him becomes bitter and dry, as both Dahlia and Ingrge's spells flash and play over the creature's hide, and the ground vibrates from the pounding of the elemental. The beast seems unaffected by these.
Rising above the hydra, Gunther glides into position to make a killing blow.
NEXT ROUND -
Heads 1, 2, 3, 7, and 9 are still active and screaming like banshees, and once again the Hydra blasts out with a seemingly inexhaustible supply of firey breath.
Heads #1, #2 and #3 flick back and blast at Gunther - DAM 14, 14, 13
Heads #7 and #9 attempt to turn Mordrid into a blazing torch. DAM 12, 12
Reflex DC 19 for half damage.
Heads 4, 5, 8, 10, 11, 12, 13 are off Head 6 - hanging by a thread.
Corialote [haste] and Amarth d20+28=32 d20+28=42 2d10(8+10)+12=30 2d10(1+8)+12=21 d20+20=36 24d6(4+2+5+4+4+5+2+1+6+3+6+4+3+4+3+2+6+2+1+3+5+3+1+2)=81 Monday September 25th, 2006 10:35:36 PM
Cori takes in the situation and then falls into another spell. Thrusting her right hand at the pyro she sends another blast of complete cold at the thing.
The elder earth elemental does not seem to be phased by the lack of damage or the effect that he had on the pyro. With unrelenting zeal it slams it's arms back in at the pyro.
[stoneskin(Valdor) - 240minutes or 150damage] [haste - 21rounds - 24 heroes that are no more than 30' from Cori] [wand of magic missile - 17damage - 48charges] [polar ray - hit: 36 and damage: 81]
SPELLS 0th(4): detect magic(2), dancing lights(2) 1st(7): grease(2), magic missile(2), disguise self(2) 2nd(7): web(2), mirror image(2), blur(2), resist energy(fire) 3rd(7): hold person(3), major image(2), haste(2)* 4th(6): stoneskin(3)*, wall of fire(2), mass enlarge person 5th(3): cone of cold(2), passwall 6th(6): greater dispel magic(2), shadow walk(2), mass bear's endurance, chain lightning 7th(6): summon monster VII(2), mass hold person, prismatic spray(2), reverse gravity 8th(4): summon monster VIII(2), polar ray(2)** 9th(4): teleportation circle*, time stop, summon monster IX* * used spell
Aeralia (AC 12, HP 40/40) Monday September 25th, 2006 10:46:34 PM
Aeralia cringes as the Talon's and Dragon's martial talent is displayed, having no stomach for the gore of the creatures heads being sliced and torn off. Turning her back to what seems to be a quickly finishing battle, she leans lightly against the invisible wall of force. She lets of a slight sigh, glad to not be watching the rest of the hydra's demise.
Remembering the others, and the creatures fiery breath, Aeralia quickly loosens a wand from her belt, and hollers over her shoulder, not wanting to turn around yet, "Anyone hurt?"
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Active Spells: Wall of Force - 30'x30' (6/10 Rounds remaining) Shadow Conjuration - Glitterdust (8/10 Rounds remaining)
Valdor(AC37, HP 284, Stoneskin, Boots of Speed, Fire Resistance, Haste, Cloak of Arachnid, Prayer) d20+20=36 d20+38=42 d20+37=51 d20+37=50 d20+33=46 d20+32=40 d20+28=44 d20+28=42 d20+27=43 d20+27=38 d20+23=36 d12+19=29 d12+18=19 d12+18=25 d12+19=24 d12+18=20 d12+19=23 d12+19=27 d12+18=30 d12+18=22 d12+19=31 Tuesday September 26th, 2006 1:15:24 AM
Valdor yells out,"Cori, be ready to blast it with a cone of cold, even if I'm on it! Everyone jump back after we finish the rest of the heads!"
With a single leap(hasted action reflex dc 36) and his cloak of arachnid activated, he jumps onto the hydra's back while continuing his furious assault. He wants this done quickly and doesn't want the caravan involved if at all possible. His blades fly at every remaining neck he can reach. He hasn't fought a beast like this in a long while and his face shows him to be in sheer ecstasy from the battle.
(Reflex to make jump-will use Tumble if necessary, AC42, 51, 50, 46, 40, 44, 42, 43, 38, 36 for 29+19+25+24+20+23+27+30+22+31=250 possible-didn't use last attack because of jump-If it's too much movement even with Tumble, modify as needed, Jan-SteveH)
Milo Tuesday September 26th, 2006 1:35:26 AM
Stuffing the poster into his haversack, Milo draws his blade, clicks his heels and runs down the hill toward the hydra, moving in to assist his friends as best he can.
K'Nara (AC35, HP 134/124; Cat's Grace) d20+20=32 d10+9=16 d20+15=30 d10+9=13 Tuesday September 26th, 2006 1:56:24 AM
K'Nara draws back and immediately stabs into the base of the neck bearing Head #7, actively trying to avoid severing/plunging through bone. She hopes that Head #6 doesn't just snap off--two more may grow in its place..!
(OOC: first stab hits AC32 for 16hpd and the second stab hits AC30 for 13hpd.)
Gunther (AC36(37 vs. Hydra), HP 75/106), Enlarge Person, Cat's Grace, Fly, Barkskin +3 d20+20=36 2d6(6+5)+16=27 d20+15=26 2d6(6+1)+16=23 d20+10=18 2d6(1+6)+16=23 d20+20=28 2d6(4+3)+16=23 d20+12=13 d20+2=20 2d6(3+2)+16=21 Tuesday September 26th, 2006 8:52:10 AM
Gunther grins. Now this was more like it!! He focuses on one head at a time, moving on if he chops one off. First head #1, then 2, etc. (AC36 for 27, AC26 for 23, AC18 for 23, AC28 for 23, AC 20 for 21).
Lian (88hps, AC 37-1size, has reach) Tuesday September 26th, 2006 10:46:07 AM
"So, gentlemen... what are your talents?" Askes the monk, not really expecting them to survive, but but hoping to rally their courage.
Active Spell: Darkness (on copper, 39mins) Silence (on copper, 4mins) Enlarge Person (4mins) Blessed Weapons (blessed hands, 4mins)
Ve Mundr AC 47 HP 224 Tuesday September 26th, 2006 12:37:44 PM
Ve confirms oto Valdor and Cori, "Affirmative Valdor, Cold. Cori, hit the area with a Cone as soon as you are able. Don't worry about us." Ve looks a bit to the throng of sheer overkill showing up to battle the Hydra. This is ridiculous, but wholly expected
Ve calls out to everyone flocking about to take up battle with the beast even as he himself moves back through the Balck tentacles keeping his shield towards the main swirling mass of heads. "Valdor and Mordrid have the rest, Talons, Borden, Everyone back off. We are bringing in area cold spells."
With that and seeing the near godlike display of Valdor's slicing swords, more times than he thought mortally possible, Ve moves back 30' from the soon to be dead Hydra.
Spells in effect: Greater Magic Weapon Magic Vestment Armor Magic Vestment Shield Endure Elements Status Righteous Might 19 rounds Freedom of Movement 220 minutes Haste 9 rounds
Falin (AC 20 HP 63) Tuesday September 26th, 2006 2:41:14 PM OOC from Falin's player: I wanted to give a quick apology to everyone in the game. I know how important it is to get in consistent posting especially in the higher level games. I have been going through some work issues and some personal issues in the recent days and I am working through them. I will get in consistent posting, but it may not have a lot of meat for one to two weeks. Again, I apologize for the lack of consistency. Thanks, Jamie.
Falin looks at his fellow elves sitting there anxiously shifting in their places. He watches the battle unfold and feels as useless as they do.
"Do not worry by brethren. Our value will be proven in the days to come. Alot can be done to weaken an enemy from a distance as it closes to attack. That is where our strength will lie." Falin points to the battle going on with the hydra, "Just as their strengths are now playing out with close combat."
In the back of his mind Falin thinks Maybe we should look at giving a few of the elves some wand of healing or such so we can be somewhat useful in battles such as these.
DM OOC: this post was edited (the OOC intro was added) by DM Donna.
Lian (aka Jay B) Tuesday September 26th, 2006 4:07:20 PM
OOC: Thanks for the info Jamie. If you would like, I can always sub in a pinch. :)
Mordrid Tuesday September 26th, 2006 4:39:38 PM
Deciding that the best defense at this point is a good offense, the ranger goes after the next head in order.
[I will post rolls and stats from home.] [Jan, don't forget about weapon ranges. Those heads should have been getting extra attacks of opportunity as people entered their range, which is going to be greater than our range.]
(~~Jan~~ You're right. I forgot to transfer that aspect of the beast onto my LARGE PRINT notes. Dang...)
Dahlia / Ingrge 2d8(8+3)+5=16 d20+9=12 d20+23=37 13d6(4+2+2+6+1+6+3+5+3+6+1+5+6)=50 d20+15=31 d6+4=8 d20+23=43 Tuesday September 26th, 2006 6:17:50 PM Dahlia looks a bit puzzled (not that anyone can see her) as her lightening bolt skims along the beast's skin and then dissapates, leaving behind no apparent sign of damage. From out of thin air Dahlia's voice is heard from the group near Ingrge.
"Waard's beard!! That is one tough critter. I'm not at all sure I have anything that can really aid in this endeavor. At least not directly."
That said and still unseen, she pulls a wand out of her quiver and releases a charge aimed at Gunther.
Cure Moderate Wounds. (Gunther healed 16 points)
*******
Ingrge does more than mutter his displeasure this time as the creature resists his spell.
Taking a moment to calm down Ingrge thinks about what he knows about pyrohydras (DC 12 which is very little) and then decides to deal with one thing he does know about, fire. (DC 37) He then gets busy spell casting knowing that he was about to do some damage to his allies as well, but tries his best to line up his spell so that its effects begin at 8 feet above the ground and encompasses as much of the hydra as possible.
Cone of Cold - 50 points damage - Reflex DC 27 for half damage. SR 31 negates.
******
Tentacles
Pounding and writhing away at the Hydra the tentacles add 8 points of damage to the pounding the Hydra is taking, [forgot last round :>( ] and continues to grasp the hydra.
Grapple 43 (natural 20)
Brother Bertram AC 32 HP 103 d20+18=27 d20+13=22 d10+8=12 d10+8=9 Tuesday September 26th, 2006 9:38:59 PM
Bertram again hacks twice at the beasts belly, coughing and hacking at the dryness of the air. He is trying desperately to hack his way through to something vital before the creature can attack again.
(Hits AC 27, AC 22, Damage 12, 9)
Olana Tuesday September 26th, 2006 10:03:45 PM
Looking at the heads on the ground, and with all the swinging going on, Olana reckons it would be prudent to step back so that- a) She wouldn't be decapitated by one of her friends or allies, and - b) wouldn't get her ears frozen off when the wizards started flinging cold spells. She'd been on the bad end of one of those wizard spell flinging episodes before, and no thank you, she'd rather not be there again.
"Bertram! Get out of there, you crazy dwarf!" she yells, seeing Bertram trying to tunnel into the hydra from below.
Nick 2d8(6+5)+21=32 Tuesday September 26th, 2006 10:11:04 PM
Nick makes sure he's within range of Valdor, K'nara and Mordrid, and hopefully Gunther and anyone else who'd got blasted, and draws on the power of the blessed Alemi - casting CURE MODERATE WOUNDS MASS 32 HPs. 25 ft range.
DM Jan Tuesday September 26th, 2006 10:55:11 PM Coming down the hill -
Some kind of potion appears from the pocket of one of the caravan men and finds itself in the hands of the one who'd asked for it. This man drinks down the potion, throws the bottle on the ground, pulls twin shortswords and starts to run, full tilt, down the hill toward the battle, all the while yelling "AAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHhhhhhhhhh....."
One of the other men answers Lian's question as they move to join the others."Well, we're pretty good with our blades - oh my...." He tails off, watching his comrade charging down the hill at full speed.
Hydra country -
Ne'thrin nods at Falin's explanation, and the mood in the elven group becomes a little more philosophical. "It seems they have things well in hand," the elder elf observes.
In the midst of the fray, the head stumps begin to regenerate. Under 'normal' circumstances, the hydra - having some heads still attached - would have been able to double it's attack in a matter of moments, as K'nara feared. However, as the blades of Valdor, K'nara, Mordrid, Gunther and Borden slice into heads #1, #2, #3, #7 and #9, the creature finds itself completely headless.
The aftermath is messy, the corpse, no longer magically toughened, becomes an easy target. Bertram opens up it's belly with his axe and gets a smack on the helmet from one of Ingrge's black tentacles. Ve's warning gives everyone barely enough time to get out of the way before the cold spells arrive to give everyone frostbite. This time the creature is easy meat, and a horribly comic and very macabre scene develops as the earth elemental and the tentacles knock what's left of the HYDRA into frozen chunks and scatter it over the ground. The orcs in particular find this very funny and laugh out loud.
By the time Milo arrives, the healing spells are starting to work amongst the fighters, and the creature's flesh is starting to dissolve, until finally, only skulls, teeth and bones are left.
((HINT - who's seen Jason and the Argonauts and knows what to do next?))
Then - as everyone collects themselves in the immediate aftermath -
" - aaaaaaaaAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHH!!!" There is a man running down the hill toward everyone, yelling a battle cry, armed with two shortswords held aloft, and a look that says he has nothing but bloody murder on his mind.
Falin (AC 20 HP 63) Tuesday September 26th, 2006 11:33:46 PM
Falin looks over and sees the man running diown with swords out. "What is that crazy human doing?" Falin motions to the elves to prepare a volly in case it looks like he is attacking the group. He waits to give the elves the order.
K'Nara d20+17=36 Wednesday September 27th, 2006 12:37:34 AM
The tall blade singer's lips twitch as she fights to keep from laughing out loud at the sight of the tardy fighter...however, it's unclear if he means to attack what's left of the pyrohydra or is attempting to charge someone in the group.
"Oh, geez...!" she mutters, sheathing Lucia once as she takes off in a running charge towards the flailing arrival.
If K'Nara is close enough to the man charging the battle scene, she will attempt to run up as close to him as possible and then, literally, throw herself at the man's legs, tripping him up before he can reach anyone.
K'Nara has rolled an unarmed attack upon the man with the two short swords--she gets a total of 36 for her attempt to trip him.
Valdor d20+20=39 Wednesday September 27th, 2006 1:44:03 AM
Valdor leaps high into the air and just off to the side as the cold spells arrive at the beast. He feels the chill but is otherwise unharmed by them. Just for good measure, and to make Borden think twice about his boldness towards the group, he adds a flip before he lands on his feet, his swords snapping back into their hilts as his feet touch down with the surety of almost any thief.
He grins at Borden and says,"Your men did well. It was an honor to fight beside you. I don't know how many dragons you have fought, but the black one we search for will be much harder to kill than this. Our group has been involved in around fifteen dragon kills of all colors, so I don't speak from arrogance or guessing when I tell you this. The same tactic will be needed against a dragon. It must be hit hard and fast, with no guessing and from all around, or its breath weapon will wipe most everyone out at once. Just something to remember when the time comes...if it comes."
He reaches up to pat the large orc on the shoulder and turns to Mordrid. He smiles and says,"Brother, that felt good. It has been so long since we KNEW what to fight and when that I had forgotten how much it excites me. My last fights have been with hatred and anger in my heart. That seems to have cleansed my soul again. Thank you for protecting me as I fought."
His eyes are blazing with a fire not seen for some time. He completely ignores the man running towards them and searches out Cori. When he finds her, he grabs her and plants a kiss on her with his fiery passion. He figures he'll get slapped...or fireballed, but doesn't care. He waits for her to turn him to stone or something and lets her break the kiss.
Milo Wednesday September 27th, 2006 2:32:54 AM
Milo looks disappointed as the creature is slain, nudging a frozen chunk o' hydra with the tip of his boot, "Looks like critter control already got this one." The halfling seeks out Mordrid, and pulls the poster from his belt, "They've put together quite a campaign to collect mercenaries far and wide. I opened up a fairly large chest of gold, they protected with magic... could be their payroll. I didn't take any... but if we wanted to foment dissension amongst the ranks, I could steel their stash fairly easily." Milo looks rather proud of himself.
Gunther (AC36(37 vs. Hydra), HP 106/106), Enlarge Person, Cat's Grace, Fly, Barkskin +3 d20+14=32 2d6(6+3)+26=35 Wednesday September 27th, 2006 8:07:58 AM
The warrior looks a little downcast as the hydra falls. He just barely got in the fight and now it's over. Sigh. To cheer himself up, he heads over and grabs up one of the hydra's skull. Putting it on his hand like a hand puppet, the warrior turns it toward the orcs, snapping it's jaws meanacingly. In orchish "Oooo...look at me...I'm a mighty hydra. Watch out...I'm going to get you!"
As he sees the person bolting toward the group, the huge Gunther tosses the skull aside. Play time is over. He flys quickly over to K'nara's side. If the human even thinks of attacking K'nara or any of the others, Gunther's response is quick and efficient. Still, he uses the flat of his blade so that he doesn't flat out kill the person (Held action...power attack. AC32 for 35 damage)
Mordrid Wednesday September 27th, 2006 10:30:02 AM
Mordrid nods in return to Valdor, "indeed."
As Milo reports, the ranger retorts, "good job." Pointing to Valdor, "You had better report your findings to Valdor and K'nara.
He does a double take when he sees Valdor all tangled up with Cori, "What in the $%&$ does he think he is doing?"
Lian (114hps, AC 37-1size, has reach) Bears End, Blessed Hands, Enlarge Wednesday September 27th, 2006 11:27:27 AM
Unable to stop the foolish man, Lian looks calmly at the one who was talking. "I hope he didn't owe you any money."
The monk turns to see how the battle is faring and notices that Valdor is a seriously dangerous fighter. The legends are true about this guy. Wow.
Shaking himself out of the stupor, Lian turns back to the three men. "Okay. Hydra's from I understand regenerate. I don't recall why or even how, but it has something to do with multiplying heads or some such thing. So, the damage attacks may have to be centered on the body. I also think if you take out the legs, the beast may fall. Ready?"
Once the troops arrive, the monk will lead them into battle.
The monk casts Bear's Endurance on himself.
How strong do the men look?
Active Spell: Darkness (on copper, 38mins) Silence (on copper, 3mins) Enlarge Person (3mins) Blessed Weapons (blessed hands, 3mins) Bear's Endurance (4mins)
How tall is the hydra and could a melee combatant potentially strike a head? Could someone, lets say a monk, jump(as a movement) and strike a head or two?
Corialote [haste] and Amarth Wednesday September 27th, 2006 12:15:58 PM
Maybe not the reaction that Valdor was looking for, but Cori does not break the kiss. She holds it for as long as possible. When at last they must break the kiss she gives a shy smile to Valdor and kisses him again upon the cheek. "You are full of surprises." Turning ever so slightly in the man's grasp she dismisses her elemental. Her one arm loops itself around Valdor and pulls him closer to her.
From somewhere Cori can make out a snicker in her head. This is accompanied by actual laughter thought it is a little hard to tell who did it.
[stoneskin(Valdor) - 240minutes or 150damage] [haste - 20rounds - 24 heroes that are no more than 30' from Cori] [wand of magic missile - 17damage - 48charges] [polar ray - hit: 36 and damage: 81]
SPELLS 0th(4): detect magic(2), dancing lights(2) 1st(7): grease(2), magic missile(2), disguise self(2) 2nd(7): web(2), mirror image(2), blur(2), resist energy(fire) 3rd(7): hold person(3), major image(2), haste(2)* 4th(6): stoneskin(3)*, wall of fire(2), mass enlarge person 5th(3): cone of cold(2), passwall 6th(6): greater dispel magic(2), shadow walk(2), mass bear's endurance, chain lightning 7th(6): summon monster VII(2), mass hold person, prismatic spray(2), reverse gravity 8th(4): summon monster VIII(2), polar ray(2)** 9th(4): teleportation circle*, time stop, summon monster IX* * used spell
Ve Mundr d20+14=28 Wednesday September 27th, 2006 4:35:40 PM
Ve deactivates his boots, the hydra was done and his stows his hammer. The glow fades and his vision adjusts quickly to drop into the black and white of the vision of those that live in the dark. Nothing escapes his attention, Valdor, Mordrid's annoyance with the act, Gunther and the orcs or K'Nara and the soon to be neutralized charging man. Ve moves to the seemingly forgotten teeth and assorted bones of the hydra. A thought nagging his mind and darkening his coutenance.
Ve sets to picking up the numerous pieces and storing them in a plain brown rough sack. Any injured were slightly so and Nick would be certainly happy to assist in thier well being. With the thought of his only true friend about he takes inventory of his position, the status spell providing all the information Ve required to the sate of Father Nicholas' well being.
Spells in effect: Greater Magic Weapon Magic Vestment Armor Magic Vestment Shield Endure Elements Status Righteous Might 17 rounds Freedom of Movement 220 minutes Haste 8 rounds remaining (inactive)
Brother Bertram Wednesday September 27th, 2006 8:49:42 PM
Bertram slowly moves to the nearest water and ducks his head under, clearing some of the blood and guts from his beard, face, and hair. He looks over at the raging lunatic running down the hill and decides there was enough heroes here to deal with the guy without him. He flops down on the ground, catching his breath, and watching to see who takes out the idiot in mid-charge.
Olana Thursday September 28th, 2006 1:28:19 AM
Olana walks closer to where K'nara has apprehended the fool charging down the hill. What was he howling about anyway? Well, he'd better watch it. Adrenalin was still pumping.
Nick Thursday September 28th, 2006 1:35:08 AM
As he walks around, asking if everyone is okay, Nick nods at Ve as the Protector starts to collect what look like bones. Hmmm, spell componants, perhaps.
Nick's in a good mood. No one was seriously hurt. No one (except for the unfortunate hydra) got killed. A very satisfying result for a priest of Alemi.
However, the man running down the hill gives him pause. Lian was back there, and Milo. If there were hordes of these fellows on the attack he was sure those guys would have alerted them. He watches ruefully as K'nara stops the man in his tracks. Don't want to get on the wrong side of that young lady.
DM Jan Thursday September 28th, 2006 2:11:17 AM
All four groups of elves reunite around Falin after the fall of the Hydra, but they're quick to nock arrows as the crazy man runs down the hill.
K'Nara sends the man sprawling. He rolls, growls. His eyes look black and dilated. For a moment it seems like he'll try and slash the female warrior with his blades, but the appearance of Gunther confuses him, scares him, and so there he stays, his teeth bared, his eyes wild, panting like a dog.
Lian arrives with the two other humans from the camp, only to find that the battle is well and truly over. The hydra's flesh has already dissolved leaving behind gleaming white bones and skulls full of teeth. The two men alongside him are regarding their fallen comrade on the ground with a rueful expression. "Shouldn't have given him that potion." "Hey, I didn't know it would send him crazy."
As Ve picks up some of the remaining pieces, it jogs a memory, a campfire story.... .... and Torus bade his men collect all the teeth, for it was said that the teeth, when cast down, would raise all those who fell victim to the hydra.... Now as to whether there was any truth in it...
Milo gives the poster to MORDRID along with his report.
The three Ga'alian clerics are doing what Father Nicholas is doing - namely walking around, asking if anyone is in need of healing.
The orcs, now rejoined by Birk and his men, are looking at Valdor warily. With the exception of Borden, their fear, and attempts to cover it up by looking sullen, are way too apparent. Birk's facial tics are once again playing havoc with his expression. In a crazy, futuristic world that thankfully they knew nothing about, it was like Valdor was an atomic bomb in their midst that they fully expected to go off at any moment. Ignoring his men, Borden's posture is one of an equal with the blade-wielding half elf, and he nods thoughtfully as the Dragonstone explains about the dragon. "We'll do what must be done," he says. "Our strength is in fighting close up."
And so - It is now the dead of night. The caravan campfire glow can still be seen over the brow of the hill, and there are three of it's members here with the group, one of which is currently on the ground all bug-eyed and crazy.
K'Nara d20+3=16 Thursday September 28th, 2006 3:51:04 AM
Rolling away from the stranger and getting to her feet, the tall, chestnut-maned woman frowns at the panting man...she's not getting a good feeling about his condition.
"The danger is over now...but thank you for trying to help." she says to him in a voice that is obviously carefully modulated and paced so that, hopefully, the apparently-drugged man could possibly understand it. To Gunther, she adds in a low voice:
"Keep an eye on him--he doesn't look to be in his right mind."
Wheeling about, K'Nara strides over to Lian and his "guests".
"What potion is it that you gave your friend...?" she demanded gruffly. "The one you didn't realize would effect him this way? What was it supposed to do for him..?" Although her sword is still sheathed, K'Nara's sheer force of personality is enough to make most people aware that she definitely means to have answers, even if she must use her bare fists to get them.
(OOC: whether it's a Diplomacy check or (more likely) an Intimidation check, the end result is still 16.)
Lian Thursday September 28th, 2006 7:42:18 AM
The monk just shakes his head and looks at Knara and the Talons. "Sorry. I thought there was serious trouble. Then I saw Valdor and spellcasters and knew the hydra had no chance."
"However, these gentlemen were more than happy and eager...." He looks at the fallen fellow. "... to help. They seem genuinely interested in combat."
Falin Thursday September 28th, 2006 10:10:25 AM
Watching the man go down, Falin has the elves put their bows away and stand down.
"Even though we were not vitally important in an encounter such as this, "Falin says to the elves as he sweeps his hand towards the fallen creature," Imagine if you will there were a multitude of other creatures begining to attack from afar." He pauses for a second to allow this statement to stick in. "No matter what the other creatures may be we would be able to distract them while our comrades could dispatch creatures up close and personally."
"I never want you to think that you are worthless in a battle. I have felt that too many times and it is a road that can lead to you not being at the top of your game for your team." He pauses and glances around at the Talons.
"Always try to think outside of the box and look at what you have and what you could possibly do with what you have."
He waits for a second looking over the elves. "Lets go ahead and spread out into our teams and cover the surrounding area, but remain within eyesight of one another just in case. Begin your sweep from our campsite and work your way out to a distance of 200 feet."
Falin will fall in with one of the younger groups to add some experience should they come across anything.
Mordrid Thursday September 28th, 2006 10:54:29 AM
Mordrid eyes the couple stoicly, Valdor and Cori. The only reason that he can fathom for his agitation, might be that he just can't make sense of the relationship; it's unlikeliness; the danger involved; the untimely distraction. A bed mate was one thing, but true love was another. In the end the ranger knows that Cori will be saved, and Valdor will be dead, because of love.
Are we professionals? Are we monks? Or are we human?
Shaking his head he addresses the issue at hand. K'nara was talking with the visitors from the other camp, however she didn't know the results of Milo's scout.
The ranger conceals the poster and walks up the incline toward K'Nara. "Pardon madam, but may I have a second of your time." The ranger remains 15 feet down the grade, forcing the blade-singer to walk down and meet him.
As she approaches, Mordrid will put a hand on her shoulder, and direct her on a walk toward the burning bush.
Discretely handing the rolled poster to her, "here, I thought you should know what Milo found."
"And there's gold too. Lot's of gold. Plus some receipts of purchase. They're definitely on a recruiting mission."
Valdor Thursday September 28th, 2006 11:44:50 AM
Valdor chuckles and replies,"I'm the one full of surprises? I half expected to get fried. Anyway, at least noone died with the hydra, and it seems the crazed human is under control. I should have let the Talons do more of the fighting, but I thought a thirteen headed hydra would be tougher to kill. It was fun though. You want to go for a walk, feisty one?"
He sees Mordrid's concern, ever does he watch his brother. He smiles at Mordrid and nods. He won't be distracted...during a battle. He notices Cori's curves and rock hard stomach and thinks,'Well, maybe even then.'
Cori and Amarth Thursday September 28th, 2006 7:04:58 PM
Cori nods her head in answer to his question. "I thought of frying you...but that would have been a waste." Her eyes flash as she follows Valdor's gaze to regard Mordrid. It is not hard to get an idea of what is bothering him. "I think that we need to have a long talk, about a great many things." She has not felt this way about anyone in her entire life and was wondering if this was love. It left her feeling warm inside but also feeling a little vulnerable.
SPELLS 0th(4): detect magic(2), dancing lights(2) 1st(7): grease(2), magic missile(2), disguise self(2) 2nd(7): web(2), mirror image(2), blur(2), resist energy(fire) 3rd(7): hold person(3), major image(2), haste(2)* 4th(6): stoneskin(3)*, wall of fire(2), mass enlarge person 5th(3): cone of cold(2), passwall 6th(6): greater dispel magic(2), shadow walk(2), mass bear's endurance, chain lightning 7th(6): summon monster VII(2), mass hold person, prismatic spray(2), reverse gravity 8th(4): summon monster VIII(2), polar ray(2)** 9th(4): teleportation circle*, time stop, summon monster IX* * used spell
Dahlia / Ingrge Thursday September 28th, 2006 7:54:22 PM
Feeling a bit prankish, and since she is still invisible, Dahlia begins to wander up behind Ingrge just to pester him when the canny weapon mage turns suddenly and casts a simple spell and four colorful lights begin bouncing all around the invisible halfling.
Chuckling the wily elf looks directly at the dark halfling and winks. Turning back around he heads down to join the rest of the group, leaving a momentarily confused and perplexed dahlia to follow after.
Ve Mundr d20+16=28 Thursday September 28th, 2006 9:25:25 PM
The spell leaves Ve soon enough and his size returns to normal near the completion of collecting the bones and teeth. Valdor and Cori are moving towards a private conversation and so to the Protector, that left Mordrid in charge and the Domi cleric went towards where he spoke with K'nara on the hillside. Others could and easily would deal with the drugged man on the verge of a frenzied battle state. He needed not to be concerned and so was not.
Ve strides with the purpose and self fortright of one who knows his place and that of his god and does not second guess either as he closes to about 15' from the pair on the downward grade of the hill. He will stand until beckoned over or until their conversation ceases. Upon whichever occurs first he moves to Mordrid.
"I have collected the teeth and skull bones of the beast as there is legend concerning the rise of the hydra's victims. More precisely it states 'Torus bade his men collect all the teeth, for it was said that the teeth, when cast down, would raise all those who fell victim to the hydra.. Now I am not suggesting such action, merely informing and informing you as Valdor is necessarily occupied just now." Ve looks over to Valdor and glances back to Mordrid, trying to read what the ranger of Osto might be thinking. [Sense Motive 28]
He then changes the tone and subject, "What news on the caravan then? Are they simply recruiting by the promise of excitement, treasure and fame like most other adventurer guilds and outfits across the Wold. Or was something more sinister learned?"
Valdor Thursday September 28th, 2006 11:32:46 PM
Valdor nods and says,"Yes, we do. Until then, however, we can still enjoy the fun we've been having. And I know I don't have to say this, but don't look out for me in battle any way other than you would have in the past. I will do the same."
He face shows a pained expression for just a second, then it is gone. He's not concerned for himself, never that, but her...she has to wonder if he could really hold up his end of that bargain.
He then laughs aloud and says,"You know how ironic it is for me to feel this way about a drow elf? It's a bit unnerving, but that's good with me. Of course, you are unlike any other drow I have ever met, and I like it!" Let's go see what the others are up to."
He keeps his powerful arm wrapped around her shoulder and walks back towards camp, unless she doesn't want to go that way. His smile is one of relief and happiness as they share this little time together.
Milo Thursday September 28th, 2006 11:47:08 PM
Message delivered, Milo seeks out Olana. Seeing the beautiful elven lass, the halfling charges her, launching himself into a bear hug, though attempting not to bowl her over exactly. "I did it... they said I could do the scouting... Sir Mordrid that is... and I snuck all the way through that camp full of really stupid humans and into their leader's wagon... and there were receipts and posters for recruiting mercenaries... and a chest full of gold... if it weren't for some of the critters we've killed and treasure hordes we've taken... I'd say it was a lot of gold... but I think that it is enough to say that it was plenty of gold to pay the mercenaries and then some... and I broke their magic lock open ... and still kept myself from stealing any... so they aren't any the wiser... but I did take a poster to show Mordrid, and got out without raising the alarm..." The halfling rambles through this excitedly, his adrenaline is obviously getting the better of him.
Olana Friday September 29th, 2006 1:28:39 AM
"Oooooof..." Olana hugs Milo tightly and listens as he talks about what he did in the camp. "You're good, at what you do," she replies with a smile and a gentle kiss. "The best. Were there more men like him?" She points at the wild man on the ground.
Gunther Friday September 29th, 2006 1:51:10 AM
The warrior warily watches the unconcious man as he waits for K'nara to return.
K'Nara (2nd post...technically) Friday September 29th, 2006 4:40:24 AM
The leader of the Talons follows Mordrid and then unfurls the parchment, eyeing its message:
SEEKING ADVENTURE? DREAMED OF FAME? FORTUNE? Want to do something good with your life? Help us rescue a city. Be a hero and become rich in the process!
See - LEFT BLANK At - LEFT BLANK
"Thank you." K'Nara says to Mordrid, rolling up the poster and giving it back to him. "Make sure Valdor sees this if he hasn't already." Then she returns to Lian and the men from the caravan.
"Well...will you kindly answer my questions...?" she prompts, putting her hands on her hips and raising an eyebrow as she waits.
Lian Friday September 29th, 2006 10:37:27 AM
He remains silent once Knara shows up.
Mordrid Friday September 29th, 2006 10:41:04 AM
Following his brief conversation with K'nara the ranger turns his attention to Ve Mundr. Handing Ve the poster, the ranger looks over his shoulder. "Blackwidow; keep an eye on him."
Looking back down at the poster with Ve, "The question remains... what city? Dirt City?"
Aeralia Friday September 29th, 2006 11:11:23 AM
Aeralia dismissed the remander of her spells, then once again moves off towards the edge of the scene, allowing the Talons and Dragons to handle any discussion with these people.
She brushes off any dust from her dress lightly, then glances into the night, away from camp with a sigh, mumbling slightly to herself.
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