Nick (HP 130/167 AC 36) 5d8(7+8+5+6+7)=33 Saturday November 25th, 2006 12:52:23 AM
Nick's sense of relief is palpable as others arrive. Now, if K'nara could just hang on, it was time to bring this dragon down with everything they had.
"May the name of the blessed Alemi, God of healing and well-being, reflect light on the darkness within you!"
Casting HOLY SMITE. Dam 33 to evil creatures.
Ve Mundr AC 44 HP 224 d20+28=46 d20+23=40 d20+18=29 d20+13=31 2d6(6+5)+10=21 2d6(5+4)+10=19 2d6(4+5)+10=19 2d6(6+3)+10=19 2d6(2+6)=8 2d6(1+3)=4 2d6(5+1)=6 2d6(4+5)=9 2d6(6+6)=12 2d6(2+2)=4 2d6(4+6)=10 2d6(3+5)=8 Saturday November 25th, 2006 8:49:39 AM
Ve continues to press through the ranks of THE CRAZED HORDE, his hammer swinging relentlessly. A hulking barbarian bursts from the crowd and charges the Domi heirophant, Ve defeats his attack with his shield and then cuts him down. Hit AC 46 Dmg 21 +Lawful 8 +Good 12 Hit AC 40 Dmg 19 +Lawful 4 +Good 4 Hit AC 29 Dmg 19 +Lawful 6 +Good 10 Hit AC 31 Dmg 19 +Lawful 9 +Good 8
Calling for ever more Courage and Faith from his troops, Ve presses further into the battle. The buzz's in his earpiece, he ignores, the others had the dragon. He had the Horde.
Spells in effect: Greater Magic Weapon Magic Vestment Armor Magic Vestment Shield Endure Elements Protection from Energy Fire 220 Minutes Barkskin 120 minutes Hasted 1 used of 10 Enlarged 19/22
Glad to be out of the field of fire, Gunther's horse powers him through the battlefield toward the fight with the big dragon, Ivan. He can see that Dahlia, Lian, Ingrge, Mordrid, a scattering of the elves, and one of the Aisildurians have also arrived. Deadly magic and arrows are lancing through the air, and for a moment the immediate surroundings are lit up, spotlighting the rearing dragon with K'Nara in it's powerful jaws. It's an awesome sight, that immediately starts to crumble before the orc-bred warrior's eyes, for there is a high-pitched cry, and the dragon drops K'nara like a stone. It's flesh dimmed, it's mouth and flank bleeding profusely, and it's chest studded with arrows, the beast pitches over backwards.
For those stood nearby, the ground shakes - *whump!* - with the impact. Ivan gives one final shudder - and he's gone. Dead. K'nara is covered in dragon blood. So is Milo.
As Lian takes a look around, his detect magic homes in immediately on the hulking 12 ft efreeti creature that appears to have been knocked down somehow, and who is now clambering back to his feet. However, there's something else for his ordinary eyes to take in. In the dying fires, he can see some of the elves stood amongst the nearby adventurers. If he takes time to count, there are 11 stood alongside Mordrid and Ingrge, and 4 stood alongside Olana at the far side of the dragon. No more than that. There is also no sign of Falin.
The efreeti stumbles over to the blood-sodden K'nara. "Those you want defeated - does that include him?" he asks peevishly, jabbing a finger toward Father Nicholas, who's holy smite spell had taken effect on the genie as well as the dragon.
In the centre of the field, Aeralia's illusions have been buffeted away in the press of bodies. No one seems to have noticed or cared, caught up as they in the thick of battle - other than there was now a woman in their midst! "You stick with us, lass," yells one of the DOMI HORDE. "We'll keep you safe!" The nearby dragon death hardly registers, and the HORDE OF DOMI and their attendant elementals drive the CRAZED HORDE in a north westerly direction. As for the dead underfoot, right now they are nothing but an inconvenience, something to trip over, corpses that slick the ground with their juices making it treacherous underfoot. The horror will creep up and tap everyone on the shoulder soon enough.
Then, in a matter of minutes, the CRAZED HORDE are backed up against a group of men in the first quadrant - men who haven't yet raised a blade and are wondering what all the fuss is about. Somehow, that takes the wind out of their sails.
Fighting slows, then stops. Bertram and Ve find themselves facing men who are lowering their weapons, suddenly too tired to fight. Chests heave with exhaustion, eyes look flat, resigned to whatever fate awaits. All three adventurers are probably not much better off. Fighting has been tough and intense, stray weapons and fists have made their mark, and just breathing is taking an effort.
It's over.
At the shore at the southernmost point of this arena, Nikoli is pulling arrows from his flank. His scales are dark, reflecting the extent of his injuries. "His lair is inland, not far, in the foothills to the east," he admits to Valdor. "I don't know the exact location, however... I know who does." His head swivels toward a strange sight out in the lake, where, amongst curls of smoke coming from the embers of burned ships, what looks like a harpy and a small silver dragon are hovering over something floating in the water. "She's the only one that does."
Out on the lake, Cori feels the acrid bite of woodsmoke drive through her nostrils. The fleet has been decimated by the fires, and now with little to do, the fire elementals are dancing amongst the smoke causing whorls of it to rise in strange designs. However, immediately below is something decidedly more interesting.
For here lies yet another dragon. Belly up, floating in the water like a huge, dead fish. A black one by the looks of it. A female. And it's head is missing. Tendrils of flesh from the neck are snaking in the water like pink seaweed. Particles of flesh are also embedded in it's claws.
Valdor Sunday November 26th, 2006 1:33:12 AM
Valdor says,"Good enough. It is over between us dragon. I know you will outlive me by several hundred years, as long as you and I don't meet again. I am tired of the killing and fighting, so let this be the end of it. We will never be friends, but we don't have to be enemies either. There is enough room around here for you to leave my country and friends alone. Wreak your havoc elsewhere, and we will not see each other again. Lady Maab named me Dragonstone, others Dragonslayer. I will know if you doublecross me and I will find you. Know that Flame fell to my group, along with the Fang Dragon of Fae Skymeir, and I killed him alone while my friends killed his mate. Red dragons are known for their agressiveness and ferocity, but also their intelligence. Some battles are not worth fighting. Remember that and don't join your brothers. Now, go and increase your treasure from your brothers' hoards, but stay clear of Floating City and Plateau City, else we will meet again and I will not stay my sword the next time."
Valdor activates his ring and teleports back to the shore near his comrades. He has forgotten that he is invisible and walks up to everyone listening to what they are saying.
Corialote [HP: 177/177 - AC: 38][shapechange: harpy] and Amarth [HP: 48/48 - AC: 24] Sunday November 26th, 2006 3:36:27 AM
Looking to the body that floats in the water she silently wonders if this is the black that was to cause so much trouble. Looking to the silver she nods her head. "Is she the one that did this to you?" Her eyes lock with the silver, still not flinching or showing any kind of pity for the disfigurement. "Is this the black that wanted to attack The Float?" She is fishing for some answers that may put an end to this very problem that they are having...maybe retirement is near. She will not report the black's death to anyone till she has a few more answers. "Do you seek anything else but your freedom?" She will see to it that this young dragon gets what she needs in the way of healing if that is her desire.
[shapechange - 480 minutes] [true seeing - 24minutes] [greater empower rod 0/3] [greater maxamize rod 1/3] [3 medium fire elementals - [HP:31 : AC:16] - 18 rounds] [wand of fireball(48) - damage - Reflex 23 for half] [greater invisibility(Dahlia) - 17rounds]
Lian AC 37(41 vs evil)-2 large, hps 114/114 Sunday November 26th, 2006 9:52:16 AM
Lian takes a moment to take in everything, the lack of Falin, the survival of Aeralia, the survival? of the dragon known as Nikoli, the apparently healthy group of Talons and the group's victory. "That was fun." He says sarcastically. "I have a feeling its not over just yet. " ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Active Spells: Endure Elements, 24 hours (cast after waking) Holy Aura (+4AC,+4 resistance,SR25 evil spells)[Nick] Bear's Endurance (4mins) Blessed Hands (equal to Bless Weapon but on all unarmed attacks, break DR.) Enlarge Person (4mins) Resist Energy fire (40mins) Bull's Strength (4mins) Detect Magic (4mins, Concentration 18) Divine Favor (1min, +2 bonus)
Tattoos/Abilities: Goodberry Tattoo 3/day, ***used (16 berries) Bull's Strength 2/day, unused Stunning Fist 13/day, 1 used Wholeness of Body, unused
Ve Mundr d8+22=25 Sunday November 26th, 2006 12:52:09 PM
Men start to fall out from under the influence of the potion and Ve begins to stay his hammer. He gazes about at those that still stand on his side and to those that are not. His breathing is rapid, but still well in control and the stry weapon was not worth mentioning. Ve continues to hold control of his men and gives the stand down order. "Stand Down and give quarter!" In his immediate vicinity he issues some commands to start putting the enemy into a central location and to disarm them. He cautions everyone to treat them well during this.
The dragons were defeated, the Horde in ruin and battle won. Only two challenges remained now. The Silver dragon and the great Black responsible for this. He tries to gather his troops about him and casts Mass Cure Light wounds for 25. Any of Lawful good alignment are cured 30.
Spells in effect: Greater Magic Weapon Magic Vestment Armor Magic Vestment Shield Endure Elements Protection from Energy Fire 220 Minutes Barkskin 120 minutes Hasted 1 used of 10 Enlarged 19/22
Gunther (AC34, HP100/106), Spell Resistance 13, Barkskin +3, Stoneskin 90/100???? Sunday November 26th, 2006 8:32:14 PM
Panting, Gunther stares wide-eyed at the battlefield. Dead, the stupid thing was dead! Gunther wheels his horse around in a circle, looking for another dragon to take his anger out on, but there aren't any others he can find. Flushed with anger and frustration, Gunther jumps off his horse and bolts into the nearby woods, screaming profanities at the top of his lungs in orchish and slamming his fist into any nearby trees.
K'Nara (AC37, HP 134/95; barkskin; stoneskin) d100=58 2d8(7+7)+8=22 Monday November 27th, 2006 3:45:31 AM
K'Nara felt her stomach do a flip-flop as the dragon toppled over (seemingly in slow-motion according to her perspective) and then the teeth-jarring landing of the now-dead dragon had her blinking for a moment or two.
Slowly she powered open the slack jaws of the ex-drake and freed herself from the toothy maw, hearing the efreet's peeve about Father Nicholas.
The blood-drenched blade singer looked from affronted efreet to tired cleric and back again--
--then she laughed.
"My apologies, son of the flame," K'Nara told the obedient (if scowling) servant, "But Father Nicholas is an ally of mine who acted on instinct, not realizing your nature! Need you healing..? I have a small talent for such magic..." She looked about to see what she could see of the battlefield.
"We seek to stop an ancient black dragon named Lathiese, efreet," K'Nara clarified, "He has yet to actually show his face--dragon or shape-changed--in this battle. These people here are all my allies..." She points out the Talons and/or Platinum Dragons present.
"...since this one is now dead, we have to stop those who would still carry out the will of Lathiese the black dragon..."
(OOC: if the efreet says that he needs healing, K'Nara will cast a Cure Moderate Wounds on him. If he refuses, she'll cast it on herself. Rolls: Spell Failure check 58; CMW heals up 22hp.)
Posting Reports for Monday November 27th, 2006 5:56:29 AM
Game # 1 Platinum Dragons Week of Nov 20,2006
Name.....MTWTF Acdm Jan..XXXXXS Valdore...XXXOOS Mordrid...OXOXO Fr.Nick...OXXOX Dalhlia...OXXOO VE Mont...XOXOOSS Carealot..XXXOOS
- - - - - - - - - - Game # 3 Emeral Talons weeo of Nov 20,2006
Adm Ceil . Boy did these people eat for Thanksgiving.
Lian AC 37(41 vs evil), hps 88/88 d8+1=9 Monday November 27th, 2006 12:40:22 PM
The monk retrieves his own wand of CLW and wanders over and taps Gunther for 9 healing.
Lian listens as conversation progresses.
How long do Nick's spells last? Specifically the Holy Aura.
The hand of Domi offer some of the ailing archers or horde some goodberries (mostly the remaining archers). ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Active Spells: Endure Elements, 24 hours (cast after waking) Holy Aura (+4AC,+4 resistance,SR25 evil spells)[Nick] Resist Energy fire (40mins)
Tattoos/Abilities: Goodberry Tattoo 3/day, ***used (16 berries) Bull's Strength 2/day, unused Stunning Fist 13/day, 1 used Wholeness of Body, unused
Brother Bertram AC 32 HP 103 Monday November 27th, 2006 5:34:43 PM
Bertram's body heaved with exhaustion, his breath coming in ragged gasps. Still so far to go. He only hoped they had enough in them to finish what they had started.
Olana( AC 28, HP 67/76) Monday November 27th, 2006 6:20:04 PM
Olana's eyes follow the dragon head's trajectory and she dashes toward it. After making sure K'Nara is free of it's jaws and is all right, she looks around hurriedly for Milo.
Nick (HP 130/167 AC 36) Monday November 27th, 2006 6:33:21 PM
Nick closes his eyes for a moment as the dragon hits the ground. He looks over toward Ingrge and Mordrid (can't see Dahlia) and gives them a slight nod. It's a small gesture but it carries a lot of meaning.
Glad to see K'nara still in one piece, he asks all those in the immediate vicinity who are hurt to gather close.
He edges toward the trees, so his spell can take effect with any of the elves still in the trees and injured.
"By Alemi's glorious power, may all ills cease, may all wounds seal, and may suffering and pain disappear."
Casting MASS HEAL.
The Silver Dragon (DM Jan) Monday November 27th, 2006 6:39:24 PM
To Cori's questions:
"Is she the one that did this to you?" The dragon shakes her head. No.
"Is this the black that wanted to attack The Float?" The dragon shakes her head to this question, also. No.
"Do you seek anything else but your freedom?" A long pause. And then -
Draconic, telepathic - What is freedom?
Aeralia (32/40 HP) Monday November 27th, 2006 8:00:04 PM
Aeralia yelps when she's hit by the spear, loosing control of her illusion, both from the pain, and the large amount of people bumping into her, and through her illusionary warriors.
As the conflict quickly comes to an end around her, Aeralia does her best to work her way out of the crowd, and towards the Talons and Dragons. She quickly realizes the gore and bloodshed that surrounds her, at first trying not to gag, but then becoming overly saddened by the death that lay on that beach.
"What in the Wold was the point of all... of all of this?" she questions her companions when she gets close enough, waving a hand towards the bloody field.
"We definately think we deserve a full explenation, don't we-" she says, starting to glance behind her before she realizes Terrins not there. "I'm sure we all would like one, as well," she adds, motioning towards the armies newest recruits. "I'm sure they are due one."
She looks to be in a state somewhere between total confusion and on the verge of crying, but doing her best not to be either.
Mordrid (Protection from Fire / Electricity, Cats Grace, Holy Aura, Free Action, Longstrider) AC 39 / hp 231 Monday November 27th, 2006 10:14:34 PM
Not letting the elven contingent have a chance to realize their losses; the ranger gathers the 15 remaining archers, "You there! and you there! Rally here!" Once they have pulled together in some formation, "Follow me!" Mordrid leads them toward the main tent. He trods through the fleshy mess with chin pushed forward.
Arriving at the tent he throws open the flap and enters with bow aimed at the dark corners.
"Don't touch anything until Dahlia has had a chance to search."
Corialote [HP: 177/177 - AC: 38][shapechange: harpy] and Amarth [HP: 48/48 - AC: 24] Monday November 27th, 2006 11:56:51 PM
Cori looks to the female dragon and smiles in her adopted form. "Do you go were you please without having to answer to anyone? Does the one that did this to you tell you what to do, even when you do not want to?" Her eyes do not waver as she watches the reactions of a dragon that maybe more than she knows.
She spreads he hands wide and lets her head fall back to look up at the sky. "Do you fly free with nothing to hold you back...to go where you want and see what you want?" Letting her head slip back down to look at the dragon once again she smiles. "That is partially freedom...but everyone should have freedom and no other should take that from another." Looking back to the body in the water she frowns. "Can you tell me who she was...what she was to you...and is there a male like her nearby?"
[shapechange - 480 minutes] [true seeing - 24minutes] [greater empower rod 0/3] [greater maxamize rod 1/3] [3 medium fire elementals - [HP:31 : AC:16] - 17 rounds] [wand of fireball(48) - damage - Reflex 23 for half] [greater invisibility(Dahlia) - 16rounds]
DM Jan Tuesday November 28th, 2006 2:30:10 AM
The injured dragon Nikoli is already on the wing, flying due south along the lake edge and rapidly disappearing by the time Valdor teleports back to his group. Still invisible to most, the big warrior is a secretive witness to the battle aftermath -
The dead lie all around, and the horror and the waste of it all is written plain on Aeralia's face. Ve Mundr and the dwarf Bertram appear to have what's left of the army in hand. Some are being disarmed as per the Protector's instructions, others are looking on expectantly, hoping for answers. Alongside the dead dragon Ivan, assorted Talons and Platinums are regrouping and getting patched up after the fight. Gunther is taking out his frustrations on the closest charred tree trunk. Mordrid and Dahlia(?) can be seen, marching off toward the big tent with some of the elves. The surrounding air is cloying - death, drying blood, cooked flesh and smoke.
After accepting some of Lian's goodberries, the elves pull themselves together and set off with the Platinum ranger across the field. They have lost more than half their number, and it is beginning to show on their faces.
Brother Nyle, his red robes charred black, appears to be searching the crowd for signs of his fellow clerics, and any of the Aisildurians they had come here to rescue. Of Brothers Michael and Tyne - there is no sign.
As for the orcs, their leader is gone, and all that remain are two, and they're not giving their weapons up - no way, no how - surrounded as they are by a group of humans in the crowd, baying for their blood. They circle, back to back, eyes on the crowd around them.
The big tent in the centre of the field is deserted. Inside is a large table, it's surface scattered with maps, and alongside are four large trunks. All four of them closed. The elves line up and guard the perimeter.
Stood towering over K'Nara, the efreeti looks sourly at Olana, Aeralia, Milo and Ingrge, reserving a special twist of the upper lip for Father Nicholas. "I'd rather go back in my bottle," grumbles the genie. "This dragon was a lunkhead. I offered it a way out, but did he take it? Noooooooooo. And you say there are more? Pah." The disgruntled creature does not wish to be healed, apparently. And it stands there, arms folded, in typical genie fashion.
Out on the lake, Cori's conversation with the silver continues. All talk of freedom appears to have the dragon either completely baffled about the concept, or indifferent. She isn't a particularly good conversationalist either, which might be because of the partially ruined mouth, although she's obviously a telepath. For the dead female in the water, the silver doesn't seem to have much to say. However, when the male is mentioned -
Draconic, telepathic - Yes, but stay away. He'll kill you, or worse.
As everyone catches their breath and starts to regroup, adrenalin starts to wane along with the Wold's twin moons. It is still night - a time where only night dwellers are out, and ordinary folks have gone to bed hours ago. And so it probably comes as no surprize when everyone is mentally tapped on the shoulder by their own body clocks. Tired? You should be....
And yet - more danger awaits.
K'Nara (AC37, HP 134/117; barkskin; stoneskin) d20+3=21 Tuesday November 28th, 2006 2:41:52 AM
K'Nara casts her spell on herself, then sees that what's left of the orc contingent is being set upon. She looks about for Gunther--where in the Wold was he, to let his brethren be threatened so? Frowning, the warrior woman takes off towards the shouting humans, bellowing herself as she does so:
"Hey, now, what's this??? Stand down, humans--first, you vastly outnumber these orcs...and second, they aided us in defeating the true evil that was here! How DARE you raise weapons against them! STAND DOWN NOW...or fight ME if you dare!!!" This last part is practically screamed by the bloody amazon waving the fiery sword in a clearly threatening manner.
(OOC: Rolled for K'Nara's Intimidation check for a total of 21.)
Lian AC 37(41 vs evil), hps 88/88 Tuesday November 28th, 2006 6:50:50 AM
The monk is happy to have the remaining elves take his berries. "Eat up and think of the brothers who fell. They are heroes now."
Lian takes off with K'Nara to lay down some pain on the human scum.
I assume more than 4 minutes have passed since the start of the conflict? Or are we still in rounds?
~~Jan~~ Jay, we're done for now. Sorry, should have made that clear. Oh, and Nick's spell will have run it's course. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Active Spells: Endure Elements, 24 hours (cast after waking) Holy Aura (+4AC,+4 resistance,SR25 evil spells)[Nick] Resist Energy fire (40mins)
Tattoos/Abilities: Goodberry Tattoo 3/day, all used (16 berries) Bull's Strength 2/day, unused Stunning Fist 13/day, 1 used Wholeness of Body, unused
Ve Mundr AC 43 HP 224 d20+16=17 d20+16=24 Tuesday November 28th, 2006 12:23:41 PM Only 2 remain, and so it would appear Bordens dream is as the ash upon the ground., K`Nara's raised voice brings Ve striding over, his eyes scan the battlefield of survivors, Nicholas' spell would certainly go a long way in that. The elven contingent was set upon by one of the dragons, the calvalry descimated as well. The dead are thick about, as they are in any battle. His hopes of the wall sectioning the enemy and the fairly large conversion to teh right would have turned the tide greater to their advantage, but dragons were about. He scans for those he knows, Captain Brown perhaps as he arrives to the orcs.
Ve tries to identify if the orcs were on their side or not during the conflict or if they are part of the prisoner group. "K`Nara do you know where Falin and Gunther are, I have not seen them among living or dead. I will handle this so you can see to your own." First we remove ourselves from the field of battle except for the those who will take account of our losses
Ve begins to organize a withdrawl of the troops back to the location where they came ashore and the three ships still rest. He moves among the ranks locating standout groups to take minor charge over other groups and of those designated as prisoners for the time being. He also informs all that the prisoners designation is temporary. Once regrouped at the landing point it will individually reviewed.
Spells in effect: Greater Magic Weapon Magic Vestment Armor Magic Vestment Shield Endure Elements Protection from Energy Fire 220 Minutes Barkskin 120 minutes Hasted 1 used of 10 Enlarged 1722
Mordrid (Protection from Fire / Electricity, Cats Grace, Holy Aura, Free Action, Longstrider) AC 39 / hp 231 Tuesday November 28th, 2006 2:02:37 PM
Mordrid grumbles something about there being nothing particularly heroic about dying, meanwhile he lights a lantern; spreading out the maps he reads what he may.
"Dahlia, we need you in the tent. Valdor, K'nara, we need you in the main tent."
The ranger arranges a few chairs, then plops down on his rump; removing his quiver and bow.
Valdor d20=11 Tuesday November 28th, 2006 2:37:05 PM
Valdor is saddened by the amount of death and destruction. Sure wasn't how he had perceived the battle would go, but it did work and none of his group or the Talons had been killed or were beyond repair. Still, to lose so many...
He finally remembers he's invisible, so he applies his Oil to return to being visible. He's covered in blood and looks down at the splatters all over himself. He is still holding both swords, ready to launch himself into another battle if necessary. He's actually not even winded. He sliced one of there leaders into pieces and finished off one dragon, only to take a ride on another, but never really got into the thick of the fight. He chuckles at the irony, but knows that his place was to take out the shepherds not the sheep.
He addresses the group,"No matter whose side you fought on, we are now on the same side. We defeated the three red dragons who were leading you, so I'm sure you'd rather be on our side. There will be no weapons raised against each other from now until our paths split! Any who wish to fight, may fight the red haired lady who is highly angry, or myself, if you'd prefer. So enough nonsense. We have had enough bloodshed this day. Ve Mundre will organize you into groups and be your captain now. Look to him for your assignments."
He looks around for Cori as he heads to the tent. His heart falls, when he doesn't see her, but he knows she is alive and he will see her soon...
Mordrid hears him say,"Coming brother!", just as he steps into the tent. "Miss me?"
Mordrid (Protection from Fire / Electricity, Cats Grace, Holy Aura, Free Action, Longstrider) AC 39 / hp 231 Tuesday November 28th, 2006 5:06:20 PM
When Valdor opens the tent flap and announces his arrival, Mordrid has his boots thrown up on the table. The ranger slowly looks up, scanning Valdor from foot to head.
"Good to see you in one piece."
Mordrid points his thumb over his shoulder at the four chests, "the loot."
Then he points at the rolled out parchment on the table, "the plans."
Dahlia / Ingrge d20+40=45 d20+40=45 d20+40=50 d20+40=45 d20+40=53 Tuesday November 28th, 2006 5:36:11 PM
Walking along with Mordrid the halfling nearly forgets she is invisible when he calls for her to join him in the tent. Letting the invisibility go she taps him on the hip. "I am hear you want I should take a look a those chests?" Assuming that to be the case, the little halfling checks the chests over for any devices. disable device: DC 45,45,50,45,53
*******
Ingrge takes several moments to collect some valuable spell components from the red dragon's corpse, and with a look, dares anyone to say anything about it. (blood, scale, claw, tooth, wing membrane)
Corialote [HP: 177/177 - AC: 38][shapechange: harpy] and Amarth [HP: 48/48 - AC: 24] Tuesday November 28th, 2006 6:58:30 PM
Well at least she maybe able to give this dragon a chance to experience freedom. "Will you support him if we find that we need to stop him from his task?" She watches the burning ships and the black dragon carcass with a newfound sense of wonder. A smile plays across her face as she thinks about what Valdor will be thinking soon if he does not find her.
[shapechange - 480 minutes] [greater empower rod 0/3] [greater maxamize rod 1/3] [wand of fireball(48) - damage - Reflex 23 for half]
Gunther (AC34, HP100/106), Spell Resistance 13, Barkskin +3, Stoneskin 90/100???? Tuesday November 28th, 2006 10:51:23 PM
Hearing K'nara's shout, Gunther spins about and bolts down to the two living orcs. He snarls at the humans surrounding them, more than ready to bust a couple of heads should they hesitate more than two seconds to obey K'nara's command. Getting within inches of the orcs face, he snaps in orcish. "You will put those weapons away and you will do so now! We will not dishonor Borden's memory by acting stupidly in front of the humans!" Once the order is obeyed, Gunther eyes the orcs, figuring out their potential. "Go and clean your swords and armor. I will be back to inspect you in 5 minutes... You will be ready for duty at that time." Without a second glance at the orcs, Gunther strides over to Father Nicholas and taps him on the shoulder. "Excuse me sir...I've know dat highly favored clerics like yourself can...aheem...raise de dead." Gunther looks down at the ground, kicking it idly with his boot. "And vell...ven ve're done vith all dis...I vas vondering if maybe you could try and raise Borden. He vas a goot leader and vas cut short before his vision could be fulfilled..." Gunther continues to kick at the dirt while he searches for other reasons to bring the orc leader back from the dead.
Brother Bertram Tuesday November 28th, 2006 11:16:32 PM
Bertram walks among the army, reassuring any that look as if they need it and giving comfort in general.
Nick Tuesday November 28th, 2006 11:44:44 PM
Once he's done with healing, Nick steps cautiously toward the trees. He wants to check the deceased elves' status, just in case his spell had revived any near death. "Olana, can you help me?" he asks. It's probably a fruitless exercise, but he wants to make sure. Gunther's information is news to him. "Borden, too? Do you know where he is?" he asks the Talon warrior gently.
Olana Tuesday November 28th, 2006 11:49:58 PM
Once she's discovered that Milo is in one piece, Olana is wondering whether she should go and back K'Nara up, just in case, when Father Nicholas asks for help. "Sure," she says, not exactly relishing the task, but still... there was Ingrge digging away at the dead dragon. "Wizards," she says, walking past her white robed comrade.
Lian Wednesday November 29th, 2006 11:25:54 AM
Lian joins Ingrge at the corpse, to 'learn' about the value of dragon bits. He will take enough small parts to fill one of his virtually bottomless pockets.
He will take time to collect a scale or tooth for each of the remaining archers should they want one.
DM Jan Wednesday November 29th, 2006 11:41:59 AM
Those threatening the orcs back off swiftly when K'nara arrives with Lian and the big genie at her shoulder. There are a few smirks, an occasional shrug, but it looks like the two orcs will survive for a while longer. There isn't much fight left in the men in any case. It's dark, fairly cold, and the Woldian equivalent of 3.30 AM, and it doesn't take long for the men loyal to Ve Mundr to get every organised, grab some torches and head off through the battlefield toward the headland and the surviving ships. Their mood appears to be fairly subdued. Ve's observation of the two orcs tells him that perhaps - going off the light cavalry armour - that one of them was one of Borden's men. That thought also jogs another memory, of Capt Brown riding not too far away from the big orc at one point.
As Bertram accompanies the procession south, he catches snippets of conversation as the group circumnavigate a field full of bodies and the occasional torn standard depicting a clenched metal gauntlet. How do we get home...? Do we still get paid...? I dunno... I'm hungry... and tired...
The two orcs end up shadowing Gunther as he heads into the trees to talk to Father Nicholas. There the Shepherd of Alemi and Olana are finding one charred body after another. there's nothing alive back here.
Ingrge gets his spell componants; Lian his trophies. He, Lian and Milo can see that there looks to be about 400 GP of coins and gems embedded in Ivan's scales.
Out on the lake, the silver dragon shakes her head as Cori asks her if she's likely to help the black dragon. No, seems to be the answer, although there appears to be a slight scepticism on the creature's ruined face also. The small dragon then turns, banks away from the floating dragon corpse, and alights on shore. There she changes back to her slight, human form. To Cori, in this form she looks maybe ten years old - if that. He holds out her hand and then looks toward the tent, where some of the Plats and Talons seem to be gathering.
Can it be done? Show me.
Aeralia watches Valdor appear out of nowhere, address the men, then head off toward the tent.
Inside the tent in the centre of the field, Dahlia has cracked open the chests. All were trapped, but with the exceptions of a narrow sliver of metal that comes flying out from a lock, whizzing right between Valdor and Mordrid and embedding itself in a tentpole, there are no more mishaps.
Three chests contain gold. In total - approximately 10,000 Gps The fourth chest is full of small vials, containing a similar liquid to the one K'nara still holds.
On the maps, Mordrid sees many detailed diagrams of various sections of the Floating City. Some are covered in notes - plans of attack, areas of weakness.
Valdor Wednesday November 29th, 2006 12:50:34 PM
Valdor smiles and says,"Those plans of attack need to go to Floating City. It will be very useful in theor defense of the city in the future. We should split that money evenly amongst the survivors after everyone gets some sleep. I also think that we should assign people to help pile the remaining bodies, offer them a double share of the treasure if they help. Then we should burn the bodies. There are just too many to bury them, and I don't think leaving them is an option.
I need to find the silver dragon in girl form. She knows the location of the black's lair, from what the red dragon told me. And Mordrid, he was pulling a great many arrows from his hide. Nice shots."
He pats Mordrid on the shoulder and heads down toward the beach where the little girl is standing.
Aeralia (32/40HP) Wednesday November 29th, 2006 2:01:57 PM
Aeralia closes her eyes briefly as most of the warriors begin to head southward, hearing the bodies would need to be stacked and burned.
She takes a few minutes or so, as others count treasure and move to speak with the silver dragon girl, to cast spells repeatedly, summoning forth minor forces to do her bidding. Once she summons a trio of unseen servants, she sets them on task to begin stacking the bodies in a appropriate area, then continues to summon more.
"Let the others rest, they deserve it," she says wearily to the others, attempting to handle the large task of stacking the bodies with her minions.
She'll spend the next hour or two, or however long it takes, commanding her plethora of minions to work together to drag and carry the bodies into a pile. She'll continue until the task is complete unless something interrupts her work. To onlookers, the scene might look a little concerning, the young woman walking lightly about the battle field; spinning, pointing, and conducting her invisible orchestra, the bodies seemingly moving at only her will alone.
In between giving assignements to her servants, Aeralia will clean and tend her wound, seeing that its properly bandaged.
~~~~~~~~~~ OOC: Cast 8 Unseen Servants, 8 Silent Unseen Servants, and 5 Silent,Still Unseen Servants, for 21 total. She'll have them work in trios to move roughly 7 bodies at a time (drag of 300lbs. combined per team), having them repetatively move the corpses, and changing commands as needed (if a 4th is required for larger bodies, etc.)
Ve Mundr Wednesday November 29th, 2006 4:40:26 PM
Outward, Ve suggests nothing but confidence and mastery over the situation. He orders torches to be stuck, bid the men sit or lie down. As a survivor of several mass engagements, he knows that the need for sleep at the moment is held off by doubht and fear. This is certainly not what any signed up for. What Ve must do first is reorganize the group and then set a camp of sorts and that is what he puts the men to task at doing. Ve speaks to those now getting as comfortable as the ground will allow, information will do wonders for them. "Tonight we camp here. Watch orders have been given, you know who you are and I thank you for taking on the task. As Valdor promised, the gold you were promised and more will be delivered to you. Myself and a hand picked group will be migrating provisions and shelters from the battlefield over the next few hours. You will be tended and cared for, but I ask patience as it will take us time, but none shall go wanting long. I ask you save further questions for mornings light. Two large casks of pure water will be immediately set up, I'm afraid food will be a bit longer in coming, but not so much so as to cause any concern. Rest now heroes and may Domi continue to bless you and yours."
Ve then meets with his 'command staff' the score of men to stand watch and the dozen that will assist him in salvaging what can be had. Using Create Water and Purify water, Ve fills as many large casks as can be had from the ships. He and the salvagers then head back to the original camp. On the way he update all the Platinum Dragons with the current state of affairs of his army and that if will be many hours to fully right them, but they are holding pretty well. Tomorrow will tell much.
Spells in effect: Greater Magic Weapon Magic Vestment Armor Magic Vestment Shield Endure Elements
Hasted 1 used of 10
Brother Bertram Wednesday November 29th, 2006 6:56:15 PM
Bertram assists in anyway possible helping anyone suffering and giving comfort to those that lost comrades.
Dahlia / Ingrge Wednesday November 29th, 2006 10:07:45 PM
As the little sliver of metal flies out Dahlia looks up and raises her right eyebrow and looking over at Valdor gives a little "Oops" and shrugs one shoulder.
****
Ingrge makes sure to get as clean and pure sample of his dragon components and then looks around at all the bodies being stacked like cordwood. "If someone will let me know when I will light the funeral pyre."
Gunther Wednesday November 29th, 2006 10:29:24 PM
Gunther guides Father Nicholas over to Borden's twisted deformed remains. Anger boils within his blood, as well as lingering guilt over leaving the calvary before they died. I should have stayed...they wouldn't be dead if I had stay.. Shaking his head, Gunther points to the body. "Dat Vas him...de varhammers vere his veapons." A glimmer of hope grows in his heart like a firefly in a cave. "Maybe he's not dead?" The phrase is more like a prayer than a question.
Mordrid Thursday November 30th, 2006 12:35:45 AM
To Valdor, "Nice shots? He got away?"
"Thank you Dahlia for disarming the traps. You are a pro."
Stepping outside the tent and addressing the remaining elves(and feeling terribly guilty), "OK heroes, lets bring down this tent, fold it, and man the chests. We need to get this command center back to our beach, and away from this filth. We have many people that need to get paid and fed. I imagine their bellies must be met first. A battle like this makes baser men of us all, and we all need food and sleep. We will distribute this crap coin in the morning."
Olana Thursday November 30th, 2006 1:29:13 AM
For a moment, Olana watches Gunther walk down the field with Father Nicholas. There didn't look to be anything moving down there - nothing except corpses to salvage. Rather like this immediate vicinity, in fact.
The elf stands there for a moment, breathing through her mouth, then sets to in order to try and drag the dead elves out toward the funeral pyre someone was building.
She finds herself talking to them, like they were children or still alive.
"C'mon, easy now.... gently does it..."
It hasn't hit her, yet, obviously.
Nick d20+4=18 Thursday November 30th, 2006 1:46:40 AM
Nick follows the Talon Gunther through the battlefield. Is they reach the grisly tableau of scorched victims he finds it doubly difficult to maintain his grip on any level of calm. It was downright eerie, how the dead here were mostly still upright, as though time had stopped for them which, in a way, it had.
"Dear Alemi," he whispers as they reach the charred figure that was Borden. He glances over toward Gunther, trying to guage the man's mood.
Sense Motive DC 18
Then a more practical part of him kicks in,a pragmatic undercurrent. Resurrection? Now that was the question, wasn't it...
"Well, at least we know where his body is," he says, carefully avoiding any direct answer. "A lot of people have died today, and Gargul may wish to claim every last one of them, but let's talk to the others."
He'll beckon Gunther away. This was a terrible place, and in his mind, a prayer runs its course.
... may they not suffer... may they have safe passage to the Lands of rest...
Valdor Thursday November 30th, 2006 1:49:36 AM
As he's walking away, Valdor stops and turns, then responds,"No, he didn't get away, old friend. I let him go. He was helpless and trying to get away from the battle. While it would have been an easy thing to do, and believe me when I say I wanted to, the fight was over and he agreed to give me information when I let him live. He didn't try to bargain his way out, I offered him a way out. I've killed enough for a hundred lifetimes, and even if he's a red dragon, I won't kill anyone or anything that is basically helpless.
He will cause us no more troubles, I assure you. He knows he was dead and that if he comes back...ever...I will finish him. Besides, it would make me no different than him if I killed in cold blood."
He looks down and Mordrid can see he is uneasy. His brother knows him and knows he feels guilty for letting such a vile creature live, but Valdor is who he is, and killing, while he's talented at it, is the last thing he wants to do, especially after the rage and insanity he showed in getting his daughter back.
He looks back up and finishes with,"When my daughter was taken, I could think of nothing more than killing anyone or thing that stood in my way. I let myself give in to emotions that evil beings let themselves be ruled by. And that, my friend, is a road I will never travel again. I lost all the control I have spent a lifetime exhibitng. I could have destroyed all that I worked for my whole life, and I must maintain myself and who I am. I know he will kill and steal without a second's thought. But, I would be no different than that evil side of me that you saw in Koshe Marr so many years ago, when I almost became the Lord of that foul place. Please do not judge me harshly, I couldn't bear such."
He smiles a weak smile, then heads down to the child at the beach.
Milo Thursday November 30th, 2006 2:14:17 AM
Milo stands dazed as things die down. The halfling rogue doesn't know quite what to think of the carnage before him. "I don't think that the gold here shines nearly as bright as it once did." The halfling begins casting about for Olana, "I think I'm going to be ill."
K'Nara Thursday November 30th, 2006 3:15:26 AM
The gore-bespattered blade singer glares at those who dare to smirk, but then turns her attention to Gunther, who is desperately seeking a possible different fate for Borden. Thinking for a moment, K'Nara softly speaking Lucia's name, causing the sword to extinguish. First she sheathes the blade, then she reaches into her haversack and draws out what appears to be a battered staff that seems to give off an aura of...
...hope..?
"Efreet," she orders the fire-based being, "You may return to the bottle after you locate and bring to me the clothing and possessions of Falin--he's an elven sharpshooter whose clothes and pack burst off him when he..." Here the human female swallows hard, "...he changed into a werewolf. Go now." K'Nara then turns to Gunther and Nick.
"I know it's asking a lot, Father Nicholas," she said, proffering the staff, "But...if you're up to it...I'd like you to use this staff and resurrect Borden should Gargul allow it. I would normally ask it of Brother Bertram--but he's already raised some other people at my behest...and incurred personal debts because of it. I will not ask him again because he has already sacrificed so much." The chestnut-maned woman exhales sharply.
"Not that I think YOU haven't sacrificed much in your own lifetime, Father," she explains, "It's just that...you're more experienced and..." Again K'Nara releases a breath, this one rather peculiarly shaky, "...and I get the feeling that you will not be following the adventurer's path for too much longer, if you don't mind my saying so."
OOC: The staff is a Staff of Life--it has but one charge left. Another thing to note: the efreet poking around for Falin's stuff is a means for the party to recover the one item that Falin was holding for them: the set of Immovable Rods. All the other equipment he had belonged to him and may remain "lost" to the party. All of this, of course, hinges on the largess of the DM in charge. 8D
Lian Thursday November 30th, 2006 6:49:39 AM
The monk remains silent and vigilant beside his leader.
Mordrid Thursday November 30th, 2006 9:23:02 AM
Mordrid waves Valdor on, "Go. No judgement here. Go find Cori."
"Ok boys, lets get this stuff back to the beach."
DM Jan Thursday November 30th, 2006 1:34:42 PM
A few statistics:
Dead -
28 elves 32 orcs 2 male red dragons 1 female black dragon 647 humans (including 2 Ga'alian clerics)
Alive -
9 members of the Emerald Talons (one MIA) 6 members of the Platinum Dragons 14 elves 521 humans (including 1 Ga'alian cleric) 1 male red dragon 1 female silver dragon
The large genie scowls at K'Nara. "What did your last slave die of? Overwork, I expect. Impossible woman," it grumbles, before stomping off in search of Falin's stuff. The creature starts to search at the edge of the charred line of trees, and soon disappears from sight.
Valdor spots the child easily enough, and her ruined features twist into an awkward smile as he approaches.
And so, while Valdor goes in search of answers, and matters of resurrection are discussed, the battlefield begins to change. The large tent is pulled down, the maps collected, the chests secured. "What do we do with this one containing all the phials?" one of the elves asks Mordrid and Dahlia. Ve Mundr's salvagers are also busy. Up in the northern quadrant, they find untouched sacks of flour, 13 hens (who, oddly enough, have dug small depressions in the ground and who are hunkered down asleep amidst the chaos), barrels of apples, and a large chunk of yeast. There are tents, various containers, and a HUGE stack of weaponry. the men move back and forth between the battlefield and the shoreline at the other side of the headland - where the ground is unspoiled, the trees still green, and the air still relatively clear.
The pyres of the dead begin to rise. It's backbreaking, grisly work. Some of the bodies appear to be moving of their own accord as Aeralia's unseen servents drift to and fro.
The dawn arrives unnoticed. And it brings with it the need for further plans and urgently needed answers.
Valdor Thursday November 30th, 2006 2:21:16 PM
(Is Cori recognizable?)
Valdor smiles back as he approaches the young girl. He bows when he arrives and says,"Hello young lady. My name is Valdor. I am told you know where to find Lathiese, the black dragon. Was that(he points to the floating dragon) Lady Solara?"
The Silver Dragon Thursday November 30th, 2006 3:04:35 PM
The little girl looks Valdor straight in the eye and nods solumnly at his first question.
At his second question, she turns back toward the water for a moment, and also nods in reply.
His flesh is in her claws... says a child's voice in his head.
Corialote [HP: 177/177 - AC: 38][shapechange: ] and Amarth [HP: 48/48 - AC: 24] Thursday November 30th, 2006 7:28:45 PM
Cori comes flying to the beach and lands, reverting to her drow form and stands next to the young girl. "You are well under my protection young one...though you will not need it." She turns to regard Valdor as he speaks to the young dragon girl. "She wishes to see our plan to kill the black dragon." She keeps the rest of her thoughts to herself, for now.
Amarth comes winging over to settle upon his Mistress's shoulder and looks to the young girl. He nuzzles the side of his Mistress's cheek as he waits for the expected scratch that comes soon after.
[shapechange - 480 minutes] [greater empower rod 0/3] [greater maxamize rod 1/3] [wand of fireball(48) - damage - Reflex 23 for half]
K'Nara Thursday November 30th, 2006 10:39:48 PM
K'Nara lets the efreet go about his task and Father Nicholas consider resurrecting Borden, and joins Valdor as he gently questions the child.
'Here be a silver dragon..?' K'Nara thinks to herself, starting in violent surprise when the bombshell of Lady Solara's demise is dropped. Her thoughts turn dark--while her remembrance of Solara was of the female in her (ahem) younger days, K'Nara had to admit that the dragon had since acquitted herself as a staunch defender of the Big Float.
The tall human female watches the interaction with the adolescent silver dragon, idly wondering how to let the dragon know that K'Nara's motivation for the battle was largely based on making sure that the young drake could live free as well as saving the Floating City.
Gunther Friday December 1st, 2006 12:05:26 AM
Gunther watches Father Nicholas closely. Though he can be slow on the take, Gunther understands exactly what the cleric is telling him...and conversely what he isn't saying. Borden was dead. Anger, depression and despair come flooding in like the torrent after a broken damn. No nation...no freedom..no hope. And then K'nara approaches an makes her offer. The warrior's head swims with the possiblity that there is still a sliver of hope. He looks over at the cleric. "I can understand if you vould not like to do dis now...or even ever. In de past, orcs have had less dan a clean record. But Borden vas changing dat...and if we can get him back, den dere is hope...hope for a more civilized life for de orcs...hope for a strong ally nation bordering Culvervood. I vill not try to svay your decision furder. Take your time and tink about it...and let me know if you need any help or anyting. Being utterly unfamiliar with the resurrection process, Gunther has no idea what might be involved.
Milo Friday December 1st, 2006 1:03:38 AM
Milo finds Olana, and silently stands near her, his face ashen as he observes the death surrounding them.
Lian Friday December 1st, 2006 10:12:45 AM
Wiping the last bits of dragon off his hands, the monk carefully observes Father Nick and his actions. (Always learn from the best.)
Brother Bertram Friday December 1st, 2006 11:22:50 AM
Feeling rather distant from the planning of the others, Bertram continues to walk among the tired soldiers, doing what he can to make them feel more at ease, including sitting down with a few around a small fire, just talking and offering hope.
Nick Friday December 1st, 2006 11:57:22 AM
Nick attempts to ensure that Borden's body is kept separate. Same with the elves, too. He's not looking forward to the discussions ahead. This was going to get political, and messy. After all, they couldn't raise the entire field, and some nasty choices would have to be made. He takes the resurrection staff from K'Nara with a raised eyebrow. He has no problem shouldering the responsibility of the rez itself, however - after watching her walk over to join Valdor, then looking at Gunther, he wonders...
Clearing his throat he says to Gunther and Lian - "This field is strewn with the dead - friend and foe alike. Yes, Borden has perished, but so have a number of your Culverwood elves. You also have a party member missing. What if he turns up dead? "Resurrection is a tricky business. The spell itself is merely the equivalent of opening a door. What comes after is at the whim of Gargul. So. We must put all our heads together and discuss this carefully before taking the next step. For the consequences will rest on ALL of our shoulders." He makes a gesture toward the other Talons and Platinums.
Oh, and Nick it might not be just Gargul that has to be dealt with, either, no? You had Ga'al snatch you from the rivers of blood, didn't you? And you had to make a promise that has still to be kept... And this orc. Who was about to claim his wicked soul? Alemi lend me your wisdom and judgement...
"Come, let us help the others, for there is much to be done. The question of resurrection will not be forgotten."
Olana Friday December 1st, 2006 12:02:20 PM
Olana stops what she's doing for a moment and regards Milo. The look on his face brings her close to tears, and she reaches for him and holds him close.
"Let's not leave these poor elves to rot in the trees," she whispers after a moment. "Help me gather them so Ingrge can put them to the torch. Better than than being torn apart by scavengers."
Ve Mundr Friday December 1st, 2006 2:20:57 PM
For his part, Ve sticks with the task of assisting the living. With his hand picked dozen, they collect into the northern quardrant everything they can to prepare it to be moved to the new camp site. The cleric is thankful that he has spells enough to remove the fatigue he will be under, is already under. There would be little sleep tonight. Certainly not enough to properly set his mind to recieve prayers fro Domi. Hopefull his fellow clerics and spell casters, who would likewise be unable to reconstruct thier spell repetoires were not too free with their more powerful spells. Else the true test, the hard fight would find them wanting and would thus press the rest of them the more.
Ve puts the thoughts out of mind, little to be done with them. Ve inventories the salvage and with one other, seperates the good from the bad. That done, each man hoists a chest, crate, pole set or whatever he may and begins carrying it across. Ve loads his carpet with 800 pounds as well.
Valdor Friday December 1st, 2006 11:41:01 PM
Valdor can't keep a smile off his face when Cori appears. He hugs her tightly, then turns back to the girl and says,"I'm sorry. Lady Solara was a fine woman, even if she was a black dragon. He has held you enthralled long enough. It is time he released you from your bonds, my dear. A silver dragon is a magnificent being and should be able to control their own destiny.
We can help you with this, if you would but guide us to his lair...or at least direct us to his location. I do not want you to suffer the same fate as Solara did. There are many good dragons who would be willing to help you find your place amongst your own kind.
Is he nearby now, and, if not, how long will it take us to reach his location?"
Brother Bertram Saturday December 2nd, 2006 2:32:09 AM
Bertram continues just what he is doing, left feeling unjointed from the planning around them by the others.
Gunther Saturday December 2nd, 2006 9:33:03 AM
The warrior listens to Father Nicholas, never interrupting him, though there is a spark of anger in his eyes when he mentions the potential of raising an elf instead of Borden. With a nod of his head, he says, rather curtly "Yes sir, I understand."
So, he wasn't wrong after all. No one really understood the importance of Borden and the orc nation. Nobody but he and K'nara that was. Well that's just fine. He didn't need the help of outsiders anyway. The orc nation would arise, no matter what these or any other outsiders thought. And if he couldn't bring back Borden, then he would take his place. It was time and I will give all that I am to make sure this dream of Borden's becomes a reality.
Seeing the war engine is about to ramp up again, Gunther heads off into the nearby undergrowth looking for Theari. Once he finds her, he explains to her that their next battle will be against another dragon, and that she will probably not be able to go along. If she chooses to stay out here, she should be carefully of the wolves, because they have one amoung their number that is very strong and very dangerous.
Ingrge / Dahlia Sunday December 3rd, 2006 8:38:20 AM
After finishing with the dragon parts, Ingrge walks through the battle field taking it all in.
So many dead... such a waste... I wish there was a way we could have avoided all this, but...
Shaking his head slowly as he watches the carefully stacked piles of bodies grow ever larger he continues his random train of thoughts.
All this for wealth and power... Are we any different though? Isn't that what we are after too? Is it truly so important... let alone necessary? Are all these lost lives woth any amount of gold?...
His musings and his wandering eventually take him down near the waters edge, where he simply stands and watches the wind playing with the water's surface and the remains of the burning ships.
*******
The little halfling nods in response to Mordrid's recognition and praise but she shakes her head a little as she looks back at the small sliver of metal sticking in the table's leg.
There was a time, not so long ago, where that would not have happened. Am I slipping, that's two near misses in as many months. Maybe it is time to retire. What if my next mistake gets someone killed? I'm not sure I could handle that.
With a slight shake of her head as if the thought of someone dying cleared her head, a red haze settles over her mind as her gaze shifts to look out the tent's open flaps and out on to the battle field.
What a glorious day. So much power! So much death! It was glorius the way those reds killed so indiscrimanently, friend and foe alike. Seeing those orcs and the two priest fry and listening to their screams was pure music. I almost wish it wasn't over yet. Those reds were soft. Killing them was like leading lambs to slaughter they never knew what hit them. I wonder how many can die when we face the black...
With a bolt Dahlia shoots up right from her position, sways a moment and dashes out of the tent and tears her way to the neares stand of trees where she leans over and starts throwing up, over and over again as if tryung to purge herself of something abhorant. When her sides stop heaving, she lloks around and seeing all the signs of death looks for somewhere, anywhere in the vicinity that is untouched by the destruction and makes her way to a small copse of trees down by the lakeside, where she climbs up into a tree fork and stares out across the water and cries.
What is happening to me...
Mordrid Sunday December 3rd, 2006 10:01:39 PM
Mordrid gets what sleep he can, and rises to go about the tasks at hand. He sets up the table (that was in the tent) on the beach, in the open sun.
He opens the 4 coffers, and begins stacking the coins in 100s. He asks what mages might be at hand to identify the potions in the remaining chest, ordering that those that are not magical be destroyed.
He sends word for the men and women to line up in an orderly fashion to be payed. Once the line forms he begins to pay 100gp to each person that fought in the battle, friend or foe.
Once everyone has been payed, he goes about the task of seeing what money remains, to be divided again and dispersed. He sends word for K'narra, "what do you think is fair for the payment of your troupe?" He assures her that the the Platinums do not require any money, so that is not to be taken into account for.
As the day wears on, he talks with Valdor, "I think the troops should be released from duty. As I had foreseen, they can not withstand the 'dragon fear'. Troops should not be put on the field of battle with dragons. We have gifts that have been given by the gods. It is futile to bring most men on the field against those such as dragons. We should do this on our own."
He thens goes on to once again explain why he set the cavalry mounts free, and why he chooses not to take on a familiar, when it would be murderous to introduce them to this environment.
In his mind he damns Borden for leading the charge into the mouth of the enemy; he recalls Borden's rebuff when he commanded them to dismount.
The ranger also speaks with Nick some time during the day, "imagine the political implications of raising Borden from the dead. It would go far to cement a bond between Elenna and the orcs of Izen. They would be rightfully indebted to or liege."
DM Jan Sunday December 3rd, 2006 10:39:05 PM
Over the next few hours, everyone deals with the aftermath of the battle in their own way, whether it be resorting to practical, physical labours, or quietly getting a grip on a tumult of emotions, or planning the next move.
The flour, water and yeast is put to good use as soon as Ve's men deliver it to the new campsite, where a rough dough is soon wrapped around sticks and cooked over open fires.
On his walks through this new campground Brother Bertram discovers an odd mixture gathered there - shattered young minds hurled into the thick of fighting, world weary adventurers who never even got to raise their weapons, and everything in between. There is talk of dragons, especially the mysterious black who was supposed to be behind this. The city they were all supposed to attack - questions are fired back and forth about that, too. There are minor aches and pains, and the more serious injuries to deal with - lost limbs, gored ribcages, burns, and blunt head traumas.
The remaining elves arrive with the chests, and stand guard.
Gunther discovers Thaeri crouched low beside a partically scorched shrub at the southern end of the battlefield. The bloody ribcage discreetly lying nearby would suggest that the cat has taken adventage of all this food lying around. Waste not, want not. The distant howling of wolves is making the big cat jumpy.
At the shoreline, as Ingrge lets himself be mezmerised by the dying fires on the lake, the 'conversation' with the silver dragon continues. The facially disfigured creature, even in humanoid form, has difficulty with speech, and so dialogue is slow, mostly conducted via draconic telepathy and some physical gestures.
She appears to be concerned about the ability and motive of the group. Is this a half-hearted treasure hunt, or a determined effort to kill the black dragon? If it's the destruction of the beast, and there is a good chance it can be done, then it appears she is prepared to help in any way. And no, it won't take long to reach his lair. She is, however reluctant - a sentiment that seems to stem from not wanting anyone else to be hurt.
Dawn arrives with the following -
- A significant lift in both mood and atmosphere, as the camp lines up in an orderly manner to get paid, and the smell of cooked bread permeates the air. There are no arguments, no complaints. No one is going to argue with a dragon-killer at the money table.
- The fire-skinned genie who, by all accounts, appears to have retrieved the elf Falin's belongings - with the elf still attached! The creature has the unconscious Talon member slung unceremoniously over one shoulder. The efreeti then dumps Falin like a sack of potatoes at K'nara's feet, and it is THEN that the elf begins to regain consciousness.
- Questions - what to do with the men, what to do with the dead, what to do about Lathiese? The black dragon's plot has obviously been foiled. Chances are, after killing his mate, he has sustained injury and is in hiding, licking his wounds. He might well be weak (and that isn't a given), but then so are the Talons and Platinums... What should be done? Hit him now? Or leave him for another day?
((OOC - players, whats the consensus, go after the black dragon now, or leave it for another module? It's likely to be a Talon module, if that's the choice.))
Valdor Sunday December 3rd, 2006 11:16:56 PM
Valdor looks at the young girl with a serious look on her face and says,"My dear, we will kill him. There is no other option. He will continue to terrorize good people and will always haunt the people of Floating City until he either has control or is killed. This will be my last adventure before I retire. You should know of me and that I do not do things for treasure. That is a side benefit and normally we only keep what we need and use the rest to help people who are too poor to feed and house their families.
But, I will let the voices of our groups be heard on this matter before we continue."
(Valdor wants to finish this. He was almost friends with Solara. The Storms lost members to him, and with all the dead, he blames the black dragon. Hoever, he will go with the group on this one.)
Milo Sunday December 3rd, 2006 11:34:25 PM
After returning Olana's embrace, Milo dons his slippers and assists her with gather the bodies of the fallen.
Come morning, Milo has spent a great deal of time considering the prior day's battle. Though surveying the scene once more, he doesn't hesitate to speak out of turn, "The dragon must die, and I must say that the sooner the beast is dead... the better."
Posting Reports for Monday December 4th, 2006 6:06:35 AM
Game # 1 The Platinum Dragons the week of Nov 27,2006
Name-----MTWTF DMJan-----XXXX2 Valdor----OXX2FS Mordrid---XXXXO Fr.Nick---XXXXXS Dalhia----OXXOOS VE Mont---OXXOX Carealot--OXOXO
Posting Report for Game # 3 Emeral Talons For the week of Nov 27,2006
Lian Monday December 4th, 2006 7:06:17 AM
"I agree with Milo. The dragon must be dealt with swiftly."
Falin Monday December 4th, 2006 9:20:52 AM
Falin begins to move and you can hear his joints popping as he moves his limbs one at a time. His hair is matted and he has blood and entrails mixed into his clothes and smeared across his skin.
As he begins to roll face down to apparently try to lift himself he takes in a sudden gasp of air and begins to vomit in a pool centering out from below his head. His body wrackes with the heaves. His arms give out part way and he falls into the pubble that he has created.
A quick look of the puddle is quite unerving as you can see pieces of things that wouldn't normaly be there. Like clumps of hair, pieces of leather, and ... is that a ring with the finger still in it?
With the spasm over Falin just pushes himself out of the muck and lays in the ground beside it face up. His breathing has relaxed a bit and he opens his eyes.
"Did we win? What happened last night? I think I fell early on in the begining." he says in a hoarse voice.
Valdor Monday December 4th, 2006 12:05:09 PM
Seeing Falin's demise, Valdor raises an eyebrow and says,"What happened to him? He looks bad."
Corialote and Amarth Monday December 4th, 2006 3:57:39 PM
Cori spends the night partly talking to Valdor but also a large part of it talking to the female silver. Part of this is due to her need to keep her mind active as she finds old feelings trying to come to the front. She tries to assure the young dragon that the have all intentions of dealing with the black...not for treasure but all those that have died and those that might die still.
As morning breaks she finds that she has fallen into fitful sleep, dreaming of things that are best left to rest. Dark things that linger at the edge of shadows and that she could bind to her will. Though rested physically she is not so mentally rested as she would like. When the talks finally return to the black she can only think one thing. "We must finish this...if not for those that have died...then for those that may die if we do nothing."
Ve Mundr Monday December 4th, 2006 4:44:46 PM
Ve remains with the troops the entire evening, banishing the onset of his fatigue with a Lesser Restoration spell in the early morning hours. Despite wanting to go through all of the prisoners and hear them case by case, Ve quickly comes to the mind that practicality will not warrant such an effort. Shortly after he sets to unbinding them and with a blessing to Domi upon thier heads tells all of them, that today they are given their second lives and to not squander them. They, like the rest, will receive promised gold and hopefully have seen as much glory as they could want.
The journey home would be set upon short enough, for those that would have it. For those of good hearts and more strong desires to explore, there was nothing stopping them from gearing up and heading into the wilderness to make further thier names to themselves and others.
Moving to the others in the morning, he would leave Falin to those much closer than he. He will tell Brother Bertram that he will do anything he can for the man and then the Protector moves to Valdor and gives him a breif on the men. They are anxious to go, many feel slighted, not by us but in the general trickery of what occurred. It is a rude awakening to realize your life was so easily forfeited by your own lust for excitement. Mostly though, it seems home is calling to them. Ve though, first and foremost believes the black dragon must be pernamently dealt with. "We can not leavce that task upon the shoulders of the future. A small smile and glint his his eyes, The last charge of Valdor and his knights." He seems almost ready to say something else to the most legendary of them all, but seconds it instead.
K'Nara Monday December 4th, 2006 7:48:29 PM
K'Nara looks horrible--and smells worse. In her efforts to see to what was left of the elven contingent and preserve Borden's remains AND make sure that the ignorant people within the allied force didn't harm the live orcs, she never got the chance to wash off the blood of the dragon that had been chewing on her.
Now, the gore-bespattered blade singer made sure that her voice carried, and that everyone (or as many as possible, anyhow,) could see her.
"What it comes down to, is this:
"There's a black dragon out there that won't stop until it gets its claws into the Floating City. Everyone who got killed here...everyone who got hurt here...everyone here with me now fought to keep that from happening. It isn't a fight we can simply abandon...the Big Float--and even, too, the Wold itself--needs us."
In answer to Mordrid's question, K'Nara flashes a tight smile and says: "Mordrid, the citizens of the Culverwood would like to be paid in freedom and peace, but I don't think Parnoth would allow that coin in the kingdom while he's ruling it."
After thanking the efreet, K'Nara keeps her promise to him and returns the fire-based being to its bottle. Then she looks at Falin with sad, pained eyes.
"My friend," she tells him gravely, "You turned into a werewolf during the battle. I believe you must have contracted the disease during our stay in Harrowed Moon--but I'm at a loss as to how to help cure you."
Brother Bertram Monday December 4th, 2006 8:01:53 PM
After doing what he can for the men in the camp, He goes looking for his companions, and finds Gunther. Seeing his friends pain, he pulls him aside and confers over what has occured.
(OOC Bertram has missed alot of the details because of his time spent in the camp with the armies)
Mordrid Monday December 4th, 2006 9:03:02 PM
Mordrid understands what K'narra is saying, however he softly presses (before she attends to Falin), "Do you want to check with any members of your party before I pay out the remainder of the money?" He expects her wrath when she replies, however the ranger has never been afraid of a practical question.
"Perhaps some gold might make Parnoth's demise all the quicker? -pause- Nevermind. My apologies."
The ranger realizes that her mind is not on such things at the moment. He turns before she has the chance to lash. He will take the remainder of the gold and put in under his care. If she decides later that her group does not need the money for upgrades, they will donate it to charity, or the church, or one of those organizations that deal with the mismanagement on money.
Dahlia / Ingrge Monday December 4th, 2006 9:33:31 PM
As Dahlia rests in the tree her eyes drooping and nodding off, The red mist stirs and unbeknownst to her, a response is formed in her head and are sent back to Valdor's query.
"Kill it, Kill them all!"
The little halfling murmurs in her sleep and puling her cloak more tightly around her continues to doze.
****
Watching the fires die for a moment longer, Ingrge turns and takes in the form of the scarred silver, shakes his head and looks back over the battle field where two very large piles of bodies and wood are nearly finished being stacked. He stands, shoulders slumped and wearily watches as the last bodies are reverently laid on the piles and then slowly walks over to the first one.
Gunther Monday December 4th, 2006 11:17:11 PM
When asked his opinion about the black, Gunther heartily agrees with pressing the attack. He may have had the red taken away from him, but he's not going to let this other dragon get away that easily.
When approached by Brother Bertram, Gunther sends his shadowing orcs off to clean themselves. Dropping the tough guy act, the warrior explains to his blood brother about Borden's death when he charged the dragon, K'nara's offer of the staff and Father Nicholas' insistance that everone agree on the resurrection. Heaving a deep sigh, Gunther rubs his temple. Though his ring of sustenance minimizes his need for physical rest, Gunther suddenly feels very weary. Leaning heavily upon the dwarf, Gunther seeks out K'nara, hoping her nearness will refocus him.
Olana Tuesday December 5th, 2006 12:55:30 AM
"I'm in agreement with Milo and the rest of you," states the elf. "If we don't try and get rid of it now, there might be another waste of life like this - and then another, and another."
The arrival of Falin and his current condition has her somewhat perplexed. Peering down at what used to be her fellow elf's stomach contents, she whispers to Milo. "He doesn't know. He really doesn't know?"
Nick Tuesday December 5th, 2006 1:10:34 AM
Nick oversees the building of the pyres, and attempts to ensure that the remains are treated with respect and not just hurled into a pile on a bonfire.
When everything is ready, he nods at Ingrge, then approaches Valdor.
"The pyres are ready to be lit. With wolves being in the area, and goodness knows what else, I suggest we do this sooner rather than later."
And in a low voice - "Valdor, the subject of resurrection has come up. The orc Borden has been mentioned as a possible candidate."
DM Jan Tuesday December 5th, 2006 1:40:14 AM
Talk changes rapidly in the main camp when Ve tells the men of their situation. Some of the barbarians want to explore the nearby mountains. Others want to sail out onto the lake, and yet others have heard of the Floating City and want to visit it. The so called Iron Fist is no more. Already it is fragmented, the momentum gone, amd with food in their bellies, and money in their pockets, everyone is wishing to be elsewhere.
Brother Nyle appears to have found a few of his flock, and he can be seen talking quietly as they sit, taking in every word.
The disgruntled genie swirls quickly into his bottle, leaving the Talon/Platinum group behind to discuss their next moves. The silver dragon-child appears to have accepted everyone's reasons and seems a little more at ease. On describing the dragon Lathiese's lair, she mentions a large dark hole, underground, limestone, and deep pools.
And so, as the sun starts to rise, warming the ground, plans have to be made. The funeral pyres are ready - and there's a dragon to kill.
Falin d20+2=20 Tuesday December 5th, 2006 3:08:33 AM
Not coherent at first of what is going on around him he only picks up pieces of dragons and iron fist and such. He moves his arm over his eyes for a minute and begins to get himself up again.
"Quite the battle last night I guess." As he surveys the battlefield. "I will carry the burden of those we lost until the day I pass on."
"What happened to the elven archers we brought with us?"
Olana's comment strikes Falin as odd, What do I not remember? What is she talking about
Then K'Nara's comments cuases him confusion and anger, "What?!?!? What are you talking about? I was attacked last night. Yes, I must have been attacked and left for dead until you found me on the field this morning. I feel fine! I would know if there was something wrong with me. I don't believe it... I don't believe it..."
Falin begins to back away from the group with a wild look in his eye. "No I won't believe it. I feel fine." He trips over something as he backs up and goes down hard. Hands across his face he begins to cry. (OOC: Wis check 20 against DC 15 to remember what happened).
As he begins to sob the memory of what happened washes over him. "I let the elves down. I let everyone down. I wasn't in control last night and I failed."
He lowers his hands and looks at the group. "I left them all to die..."
He gets up and begins to walk over to the pyre and begins to weep. "I am sorry I wasn't strong last night and I failed you. I left you when you needed me most." He backs away when they are lit, but he stays kneeled nearby for some time.
Lian Tuesday December 5th, 2006 7:25:40 AM
The monk slowly approaches Falin. "Remain strong friend Falin! Have Courage! Don't let a little affliction get the better of you. You had no control, but now that you have knowledge of the disease, you may learn to better control it until we can rid you of it."
Valdor Tuesday December 5th, 2006 12:01:02 PM
Seeing Falin's state, Valdor walks over to him and grabs his arms where he has to face the big warrior. He locks him in an iron grip and says quietly but with a firmness Falin won't likely forget anytime soon,"Listen to me man! You would not have saved many of them anyway. We knew this would happen when we started this venture. No, it doesn't make it any easier, but you have many of them still counting on you. Noone looks down upon you for your illness. I have something similar inside me somewhere, waiting to come forth at the worst possible time.
Feeling sorry for yourself won't fix anything. Be strong and remember who you REALLY are. This is who you are. Your friends need you now, more than ever before. You are a member of an elite group of adventurers and it didn't happen by chance! We need you focused for the next battle, so come to grips with it, realize you have a family that cares for and about you, and decide that some things are beyond your control. Now, get past it, get focused, and get mad at the black dragon who was behind all of this so we can kill it! Can you do that?"
Valdor stares into his eyes, those deep blue eyes boring into his very soul. The huge warrior is on a mission and knows that when he retires, he wants this group prepared for what they will have to face. There is no give in him and he will not release Falin until he responds.
K'Nara Tuesday December 5th, 2006 2:36:48 PM
K'Nara joins Valdor and Falin, her face grim yet compassionate, too.
"Falin...nobody saw that coming. Lycanthropy is a disease--while I, myself, have no idea how to help you, we are in the company of several clerics who may have the cure for that." She looks to Valdor.
"I want Borden resurrected. He proved to be a capable leader with very noble instincts. We have the means to do it and, since Father Nicholas is worried about the debt that may be incurred by everyone here if we do it, I will take on the soul-debt for Borden myself."
Brother Bertram Tuesday December 5th, 2006 6:40:46 PM
Bertram ponders what Friend Gunther has told him then comes to a decision. He walks over to the others as they are making preparations. A tired Father Nick is speaking with the other Dragons trying to think of everything at once. Bertram asks, "Father before you use that rod and it loses its last bit of power, May I take a look at it? It may be the last time I get to see one. If Nick agrees Bertram will wander into the best light examining it beside the pyres looking at the runes traced into it.
Olana Tuesday December 5th, 2006 7:52:11 PM
Olana stares bug-eyed as Valdor gives Falin a good talking to. 'It was the dragons' fault, that our brothers and sisters died,' she adds. Then - 'Father Nicolas, are you able to cure him?'
Nick Tuesday December 5th, 2006 7:57:40 PM
Nick looks on with a worried frown as Falin's affliction becomes apparent. He hands Brother Bertram the staff that K'Nara gave him, and says to Olana - "Do we know when it happened? It's important."
And (in his earpiece) if Ve isn't in the immediate area - "Ve, know anything about lycanthropy? We appear to have a subject, here."
While they decide on the best course of action, he also adds, "Has anyone seen Dahlia?"
Corialote and Amarth Tuesday December 5th, 2006 8:44:34 PM
Cori wanders off to the beach, giving a flick of her wrist to tell Amarth that she is not be disturbed by him. She stands on the beach and clenches her fists as she looks out over the water. "What happened back in that cave...what was that thing in the pit?" She can still feel the pulse of the beast but also of power. Yes it is on the outskirts of her mind and body, but it thrums through her none the less. Closing her eyes she feels a sudden impulse to go to the dead, to raise them as her own unliving army. "I could sacrifice them all for the one shot I need at this dragon...I could kill him or bend him to my will." A smile paces across her face as her eyes flash. "We could just as easily become partners and rule the Wold...though I would have to watch him closely."
Her thoughts turn to the silver that even now stands in their camp. She would make an excellent scout and ally. Molded into a fierce fighter...she was already a survivor...I could turn her into a killing machine. The thrum of power increases ever so slightly, just enough to heighten her own thougts.
Ve Mundr Tuesday December 5th, 2006 9:13:50 PM
Ve had been about and mostly getting a gauge for the 450+ souls for the most part in his possession as he saw it. They had turned upon his arrival, his and Brother Bertram's and that wheel was upon the axle of Domi. Some were looking to leave and explore, some to get to the legendary Floating city and that was fine, they would step away from his protection. But the majority would likely be looking to him directly, Domi indirectly to ferry them safely home. Father Nick's voice and sentence causes him to spin about. "On my way"
Ve is there quickly, but as he moves towards the others he speaks to Father Nicholas through the earpiece still, "I know some, but mostly here say. Some call it a disease, others use Curse. No matter I am sure you or I will have the capacity to cure it." A finality in his tone strikes a bit hard to Father Nick. Ve arrives his face set and nearly unreadable. With Valdor still locked up with Falin, Ve narrows the options, it was Falin.
Dahlia / Ingrge Tuesday December 5th, 2006 9:48:37 PM
Fitfully sleeping the dark halfling twitches and mumbles as she sleeps curled in the crook of the trees large branches. Furrows fill her brow momentarily as a dream thought or event seems to have her worried or concerned only to be soon wiped smooth by more pleasant softer thoughts. Body at rest, her mind roils and churns deep in her subconcious and something digs in finding some dark corners of insecurity and selfishness to make a home in.
*****
Ingrge nods to Nicholas as the Funeral pyres are completed and steps forward and begins to cast. At first nothing appears to happen and even the mage seems to pause and turn toward the second pyre. Seeming to cast a second spell, again nothing happens and the mage turns his back and begins to walk back to the tent. Then simultaneously the pyres burst into flames fire licking from the outer circumference of the piles to the tip top and everywhere in between. Finished with the casting
Gunther Tuesday December 5th, 2006 10:35:48 PM
The warrior stands, bug eyed at K'nara's insistance. He pulls her aside gently. "No, I vill not let you do dat. If anyvon must pay a "soul debt" den it should be me. I am orc. He is my people. But dere is von ting dat Fader Nicholas is right about. It can vait. Dis is not de fight for Borden. Ve kill de dragon first and den ve see about bringing back Borden. De last ting ve need is de Fader to be less den rested, because ve vill need him to heal us in de battle." Gunther looks up into K'nara's eyes, his gaze radiating the over powering love he feels for her at this moment. Taking note of her disheveled appeareance, Gunther frowns. "Vat happened to you? Do you need healing...or just cleaning." Gunther grins goofily. "Because you know I'd be more den villing to help you take off your armor."
When talk turns toward Falin, Gunther falls silent, suddenly sober. He'd heard of werewolves, and in his experience, it was a death sentence. Still, it seemed hopefull the way the others were talking to him.
Falin (illegal second post) Tuesday December 5th, 2006 10:54:05 PM
After Valdors comments Falin's countenance changes to one of hope and determination.
"Valdor, thank you, I don't know what I was thinking. This is all just so much to bear, but with my friends I know I can get through this."
He looks around at the others gathered around him and tries to push a smile through, "Sorry I lost it there for a second. I have to be better about maintaining control if I am going to handle this. What is our next course of action?"
Aeralia (AC 12, HP 32/40) Tuesday December 5th, 2006 11:15:24 PM
Once her servants have completed their work, Aeralia does her best to remain out of the discussions as the Talons and Dragons congregate on what their next plans would be. The talk on raising Borden from the dead had the young sorceress a bit suprised, though she didn't have much input on the matter. Raising the dead, to her, was a fairy tale, something she used in her stories occasionally, having a lost love come back to life, but she'd never actually seen it done, nor heard people discuss it so plainly.
The talk of Falin and his lycanthropy turns her amazement to worry. Lycanthropy too, was something she'd never encountered before, but was something she'd used in her performances and illusions and well. And all she knew was that usually things always ended up messy and bloody, for all involved. She doesn't mean to be rude, but the young girl seems to keep her distance from Falin, instinctively moving back whenever he comes to close.
"Well, this has turned out to be quite the mess," Aeralia says to one side, apparantly, at first, to no one. "Thanks for volunteering me," she adds, with a bit of distaste towards Terrin, who seemingly appears out of nowhere, striding up beside the young sorceress.
"Quite the mess indeed," the dark warrior responds immediately, glancing the field over in a single twist of the head. "We're still with you, should you choose to go after the dragon!" Terrin continues, raising his voice towards the group of gathered Talons and Dragons. Aeralia, dispite a visual protest in facial expression, nods her head in defeat, and waves an okay in agreement to any whom pay the two any attention.
"With you it seems like one problem after another," Aeralia grumbles to her companion, silently wondering if they'd time to rest and regroup, or if they'd need to leave immediately.
Terrin immediately responds to Aeralia's silent thoughts, hollering again towards Valdor and K'naras' council. "Are we to depart immediately, or are we taking time to rest, now that everything here is taken care of?"
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ OOC: Highlight to display spoiler: {Silent,Still Major Image to conjure and interact with Terrin} Spells Remaining: (6/6),(0/8),(0/8),(1/8),(7/7),(1/4)
Nick (second post) Tuesday December 5th, 2006 11:20:01 PM
Nick attempts to give Falin a reassuring smile. He's glad the elf is prepared to shoulder the burden. They were about to enter a nasty encounter and would need every man (and woman), and it occurs to Nick that perhaps this affliction of Falins might well have strengthened him in some way, perhaps...
A boon, yes? Ach, but he shouldn't be thinking this way. There was also the possibility, that if things got out of control....
His eyes meet those of Ve Mundr as the Protector rejoins them. Yes, they probably had the means to cure him. They also had the means to kill him as well, if it was necessary.
"So, what's the plan?" he asks to everyone gathered, clearing his throat. And where was Dahlia?
Valdor Tuesday December 5th, 2006 11:58:09 PM
Valdor's hard stare turns into a smile as Falin come to himself. He then shrugs and says,"No problem. That's what happens when you have deadly battles constantly. It's not easy doing what we all do. That's why we don't do it alone, my friend. He pats him gently on the shoulder, then turns to K'Nara and says,"What happens when one of our combined group gets killed fighting the black? Or after that, when a lich kills one of your party? Or when a group of drow ambushes you and Lian or Aerelia, or Gunther gets killed? Or K'Nara, what if it's you, the one the Talons count on the most? While I respected Borden for his attempt and his obvious leadership skills, he has died. While your lover may think he's an orc, he's not. I am more concerned with everyone here than about any orc. We knew him for what, two or three days? All we know is that he had a vision and wasn't as evil as most orcs are.
Like it or not, if he couldn't survive that weak dragon breath, he'd be dead in the first major battle he fought anyway. Besides, he charged right in without listening to Mordrid's advice, thinking he was above such advice. In that single moment, he showed he had little more sense than any other orc who claims to be a leader. I think it is folly to waste a powerful magic that we possibly will need soon enough just because he impressed us somewhat.
If Nick is to go before Gargul and possibly have to deal with Ga'al, then it needs to be for one of us. I know Gunther will be angry, even outraged, but his thinking is severly clouded on this issue, and he has you thinking wrongly as well, although you do it out of love for him, and I understand that. Sometimes we have to make decisions we don't want to make and there's no easy answer or path to take. That's why one day we are heroes and one day we are villains to the same people we just saved. After the completion of this quest, you will be Dragons, if you so choose, and every decision you make will have Wold shaking consequences.
I have had to make decisions that no man should have to make and been put into no win situations more times than I want to remember, but such is the price for fame and responsibility. You have a responsibility to your group, your land, the rest of the Wold, and yourself to make the right decisions when thrust upon you. When I called upon the good people of the Wold to fight against Marteaus, how many orcs responded to fight on our side? None. Not even Borden. So, take your personal feelings for Gunther out of this, and make your choice. He should do the same, although for him, it will be nigh impossible.
I am against it, unless Ve Mundre agrees and does it. I will not allow Father Nick, in his state, with what he will have to face on a personal level, to perform the ceremony."
He turns back to Nick and says,"The plan is simple, the young girl will show us the way. We will buff up on spells, and go in after him. The thieves will lead the way to find and disarm traps, the mages and clerics will form up in the rear and be spread out, and us fighters will go after it with all the steel we can. I think water breathing, swimming, Bulls Strength, Bear's Endurance, True Seeing, Freedom of Movement, Haste, and Acid Resistance will all be needed. Any other ideas?"
DM Jan Wednesday December 6th, 2006 2:08:16 AM
Of the remaining elves, while the majority surround Falin and try to give him their own quiet reassurances and support, two of them are wondering how to approach Mordrid about the remaining cash. Their dependance on the Talons for support weighs heavy on all of them. Frightened, and without homes, they had gathered around the Saryd Tower on the outskirts of Culverwood, and they knew all too well what a burden that must be to the Talons. With the extra cash, they could barter with passing merchants.... food, clothing, weapons... a little independence...
The silver dragon child looks on, her face impassive as the group discuss plans, waiting for questions perhaps, or merely waiting to move. Her only distraction - Aeralia's illusionary companion, toward whom she stares...
At the shoreline, blackened, charred, bare bones of ships are sticking out of the water, the fire long gone, the surrounding air beginning to clear. As Cori lets the dark half of her mind run free for a moment, exploring the possibilities of power, another facet of that thought seems to appear within the flickering tendrils. Hard to picture, hard to grasp, but an expectation hangs in the air. A possibility for sure, but not of her making.
And as little Dahlia sleeps, also gripped by the thing that had poisoned all the Platinum's minds to a greater or lesser extent, its gift of prophecy - a blessing, a curse - begins to stir in her mind, and in her dream she sees the gypsies at the table. They are beginning to lay out cards....
Over by the pyres, the warmth radiates against Bertram's skin. The smell is not as bad as he thought it might be, and it is of secondary note. More to his concern is the feeling of heat coming from the palm of one hand. The one containing his Gargul sigil. It is not unpleasant. Perhaps it is a sign. There were a lot of the dead laid about here after all, and to a Gargulian priest, a pile of burning corpses was a sign of passage, not sorrow.
Brother Bertram Wednesday December 6th, 2006 4:11:26 AM
Bertram looked around, unnoticed for the moment, lost in the confusion of orders, planning, preparation for the coming battle. He glances over where most of the Talons seem to be gathered and smiles with fond affection. There are tears in his eyes as he bows his head. The tingling in his palm leads the way as he begins to pray, not to Domi this time, but to the God needed for this request, Gargul. As he calls upon the power of the staff it begins to glow, the runes giving off a blue glow. But this is secondary to the light given off by Bertram's tattooed palm. The light begins as a dull glow, growing in its whiteness, and its purity. Growing brighter and brighter until it is unbearable to look directly at. At the moment of its highest energy, Bertram drops to his knees, and lays the hand on the chest of the body that he had casually walked over to; The body of the dead orc, Borden. As his hand touches Borden, Bertram stiffens and slumps over the dead warrior, the staff all that is keeping him from falling down over the body of the orc.
Mordrid Wednesday December 6th, 2006 9:38:29 AM
Mordrid approaches the group as Valdor weighs in on things. At the back of the gathering, he listens, and remains silent. His eyes dart back and forth between faces, searching for clues of inner thought and emotion. 'Why had his leader chosen this time and place to fight this particular battle? Borden's fate would be a point of descention between the groups, as well as a point of distraction.'
The glow caused by the distant pyres catches Mordrid's eyes.
[Is Terrin Aeralia's imaginary friend? Or is he an illusionary friend that she conjures sometimes, or is he real? I don't honostely know how to handle it. Can we hear him speak?]
Lian Wednesday December 6th, 2006 11:48:40 AM
(Um, I'm not sure we are all supposed to know that Aeralia has an illusionary friend, so I'll ignore that. :))
Lian can't believe how much of a hardnose Valdor's being, but he understands. Falin needs to hear it from an experienced leader and from someone who has been there. Leaving well enough alone, Lian nods at Falin and moves to join Bertram.
"Borden was a good leader but he may not want to return. What are their custums? Do they except resurrection or raising?" He looks at Bert and then at Gunther. "I know nothing of orcs other than they are often cruel, and before Borden, I believed to chaotic to be led."
(OOC: Aeralia) Wednesday December 6th, 2006 3:11:29 PM
(OOC Reference: Terrin would appear real, and hearable, until a DM dicates a save for sufficient interaction to warrant a saving throw. Otherwise hes "real", until observed by someone with True Seeing, or an active Detect Magic. Then he'd register as the Silent, Still version of Major Image [summoned by thought alone, since the spell has no components at all, and no visual effect beyond Terrin])
Ve Mundr Wednesday December 6th, 2006 4:51:22 PM
Ve watches Brother Bertram take the staff from Father Nicholas and make his way off. The Protector of Domi does nothing to stop him, he knew precisely what the man planned to do as soon as he took the staff. Just after the staff is activated Ve quietly states, "That decision is already done. Valdor if this distracts the Talons, as it almost certainly will and combined with Falin's condition, I do not think it entirely prudent for them to assault the Black Dragon." Ve lets it go at that and moves back a few paces.
Corialote and Amarth Wednesday December 6th, 2006 7:14:42 PM
Cori growls as she turns from the sea and moves back towards the group as a whole. "No...this is not my will and I will not let it control me." Somewhere, maybe in her own head, she hears cruel laughter...but laughter that knows that it might have just won a small battle.
Having missed all that has been going on she is not sure what is or has happened while she was away. She glances to Valdor and for a minute wishes that she could just fall into the safety of his arms...but he is needed for other things...as is she. "What spells would you wish me to learn today...besides those that cause harm." She has a pretty good idea of what is needed but is open to suggestions.
Amarth wings his way over to land once again upon her shoulder. He is rather worried but there is little he can do to help his Mistress. Still he leans in close to her ear. "Mistress...I am here when you need me." That simple statement puts a smile upon her face, if for the briefest of minutes.
Gunther Wednesday December 6th, 2006 7:43:35 PM
Gunther looks over at Valdor with plain contempt. "Who are you to say who or vat I am? Vat do you know about me? Nuting. You know nuting. And last time I checked, Miss K'nara is in charge of de Talons. If you were half as vise as you tink you are, you vould step back and let us make our own decisions. Good or bad, dey are ours to make. Maybe, just maybe Miss K'nara knows someting dat you don't. She's a very smart voman." Gunther takes a deep breath, knowing that talking to a bigot such as this Valdor was about as useful as shouting at a brick wall. "If pretending dat you know everyting and den bossing everyvon around is vat being a Dragon about, den I vill happily decline. But I still care vat goes on in de Vorld. I vill see dat de orc nation rises and dat de orcs rise out of de filth dat dey are mired in. Borden or no Borden, I vill see dat de have de chance at a true life." Gunther looks over at Ve. "You are making decisions that you do not have de right to do. It is K'nara's place to decide vether ve should go vith you to take down de dragon. And it seems to me dat de only people who are "distracted" are in your group." Gunther leaves it at that, knowing that his words will fall on deaf ears.
Olana Wednesday December 6th, 2006 8:22:50 PM
Olana's blue eyes narrow and flit about between the parties doing all the talking. She's having a hard time trying to figure out what the advantages are to raisng Borden. Orcs were dangerous. They certainly weren't on the same page as elves, that was for sure. She knows her attitude is somewhat prejudicial on her part, but hey - everyone else seemed to be flaunting theirs. Then Gunther's final words make her eyes narrow all the more. "And what about the rest of us? Huh?" she demands of her orc-raised fellow Talon. "What if we -"
She halts, distracted by movement over at the pyres. "Er - Lian? What's Bertram doing??"
Milo Wednesday December 6th, 2006 8:33:47 PM
Unsure of what Bertram is doing, but trusting in the cleric's judgement, Milo moves quickly to his side in order to make sure that he is okay. The halfling rogue does his best to help Bertram support his own weight.
Gunther Wednesday December 6th, 2006 9:03:26 PM
The warrior looks over at Olana, confused. "What are you..." At her proclaimation, he turns his attention to where Brother Bertram is bent over. "Broder..." Gunther rushes over to Bertram's side. His eyes flicker back and forth between Bertram, the staff and Borden. "Vat de..."
Ingrge / Dahlia Wednesday December 6th, 2006 10:36:45 PM
Walking back to the tent Ingrge passes Bertram on his way out, staff in hand, and watches him pass by the pyres and into the darkness. Turning a moment he watches him and then shrugging he begins to turn back to the tent when the light show goes off.
picking up his pace he almost knocks olana down as he enters.
" umm Guys, I think Bertram....... Ah I see you already know."
Listening to the last few comments Ingrge shakes his head.
"Well, What is done, is done and whether right or wrong, it is in the hands of Gargul now. And while all of you have some interesting points and perhaps valid concerns, the deed is done and as a Talon I stand beside my companion. Valdor, Ve and the rest of you may have your opinions and we do respect those, but more often than not you know you must go with what feels right. You yourselves have told us and others that very thing. Borden has a bigger part to play here I saw it, the Gypsys saw it, and Your Dahlia saw it.
What matters right now is that we are in all likelihood about to be visited by Gargul and we might want to prepare for that in whatever way we can."
***
Dahlia slumbers on.
Nick Wednesday December 6th, 2006 10:53:02 PM
Nick lets the talk of resurrection roll over him. It was probably safe to say that his own - back in Aisildur - had gone badly. It was probably an unusual circumstance, however, so maybe this one, and any others in the future would be more straight forward and down the middle. That being the case, he puts aside his fears and attempts to think of this on a more practical level. The Platinums and Talons were at odds here, obviously, and it was something that would need to be discussed after the heat of battle had dispersed. He raises his hand. "Gentlemen, ladies, let's not lose our tempers. We'll talk this through when - "
He stops, looking incomprehensibly toward Ve, and then Ingrge. The shock registers on his face. And he'd given Bertram the staff!!
Falin Wednesday December 6th, 2006 10:59:17 PM
Falin stands and sees their are other things to worry about other than his afliction. He had been selfish to think only he mattered. It is not a mistake he will make again.
He follows everyone elses gaze to the pyres and to the events unfolding over there. A resurection attempt... He had only heard about them and never seen. Falin only knew there was usually a terrible price to be paid to the god of death for bringing one of his flock back to the land of the living.
Ve Mundr Thursday December 7th, 2006 1:08:51 AM
Ve stands stoically to Gunthers comments, it mattered less then anything he could think of what the opinion that this man held for him or nearly anything else. He was obessesed and therefore could not forsee the consequences to his actions. They would play out about him and he would have to deal with them. Ve looks back to Valdor, "They are distracted and we should go and end this. When Laithese is slain, Father Nicholas and I can see to Falin, he deserves as much as we can do."
Ve then looks to his old friend, "Nicholas, your heart would not let you see what he was set to do. Do not blame yourself for this. We can only hope Gunther's obession with Borden has not condemmed them all."
Valdor Thursday December 7th, 2006 1:37:14 AM
Valdor only raises an eyebrow as Gunther rants. He shrugs his shoulders and says simply,"If he is raised, it is your concern...until he does something to cause New Elenna a problem. Then, I will kill him. Simple enough for you...human?"
His face registers calm, but his hand is itching for his sword. Never has he seen someone so obsessed. He almost laughs in Gunther's face, but knows it will only heighten the situation, so he leaves it at that.
When Gunther walks off, he looks at Mordrid and rolls his eyes. What wisdom does he have? Only that of thousands of battles, dealings with Emperors and kings, killing more than a dozen dragons, liches, hundreds of drow, dealing with Parnoth and other ruthless leaders, visiting several different planes, leading the battle against the Usurper and dealing with the consequences of all of those actions and the thousands upon thousands of lives he had affected with such decisions...but Gunther wouldn't understand any of that until he had walked that road.
Valdor stops in his tracks and actually chuckles. He hadn't been so different about his view of things, he supposes. Once upon a time, he had ideals of his own and not the weight of a country on his shoulders. But he had never considered raising an orc from the dead.
DM Jan Thursday December 7th, 2006 1:49:44 AM
((OOC - we're going to have to march through this pretty sharpish, folks, cos we have tons of stuff waiting in the wings.))
As Brother Bertram makes his invocation, Dahlia sleeps on. In her dream she is back at the gypsy table, and now, a single card lies on the table top. It comes into focus, and the halfling recognizes the figure painted on its surface. It is the orc leader, Borden. Like the card from the original prophecy, he is sat once again on horseback, but this time there are subtle differences. The orc's shoulders seem wider, his tusks are slightly longer, and there are a few grey streaks amongst the thin strands of hair on his scalp. He's older. His face looks composed, noble, determined, formidable. His torso, shoulders and arms are covered in metal that looks strikingly familiar. In fact it looks almost identical to - but no, wait - that's a letter 'B' on the chestplate, not the 'V' she expected to see.
The sudden change in environment shocks Dahlia awake.
Reality shifts abruptly, and everyone finds themselves having to adapt quickly to new surroundings.
For here, the ground is hard, and there is no sunlight, only a deep red glow. The battlefield is gone. The funeral pyres have gone. Milo and Lian can see Bertram clutching a charred finger in his hand. If they turn and look directly behind them, they'll take note that every single Talon and Platinum are stood there also.
In front of everyone are a set of wide steps leading upward to some kind of platform, while all around, rivers of red roar past toward a massive lake of blood.
The spellcasters particularly will note the lack of effect on them, as if they are shielded somehow - protected from this massive nexus of power. For here is the end of life as they know it. The end of the final journey. In the distance can be seen the shadowy hills of the lands of rest.
A man is standing on the platform, his back turned, his eyes looking out onto the lake. There is a creature there, too - small, hard to describe, and this creature comes skipping down the steps, where it then smiles at everyone, and beckons.
K'Nara Thursday December 7th, 2006 2:23:54 AM
K'Nara's hazel eyes glare at Valdor in the purest anger at the insult he just hurled at her and Gunther--then she blinks, noting the change of locale.
She immediately recognizes the imp that is the minion of Gargul and hastens to follow.
K'Nara longs to blurt out to the god of death for him to please, please place whatever debt he would levy on K'Nara and K'Nara alone, for she didn't want to burden any of the others any further than they already were.
However, K'Nara was mortal, and knew that she would have to wait until Gargul spoke his piece before pleading her own case.
Brother Bertram Thursday December 7th, 2006 4:33:15 AM
As Bertram becomes aware of his surroundings, he swallows hard, recognizing Gargul and Gimp from the last time he was here. He was even more shocked to see all of the Talons and Dragons about him. He had not intended for others to pay the price...Bowing his head respectfully towards Gargul, Bertram says in a quiet voice, "Lord Gargul you know why I have come, and I am again prepared to pay the price you ask. I only ask you hear me out and let me plead my case. I had not intended all of my companions to be brought into this, so please, dont deal harshly with them." Bertram grows quiet and waits to see what will be required.
Falin Thursday December 7th, 2006 5:39:11 AM
Falin feels a bit weezy for a moment and almost falls when he finds himself in a new terrain. Falin stands in amazement as he listens to Bertram speak.
Well, now I know where I am.Falin thinks to himself. And my problems dont seem so big anymore
Falin wait to see events unfold.
Gunther Thursday December 7th, 2006 8:19:56 AM
The anger and frustration that he felt just seconds ago is instantly ripped away as the environment changes. Though he's not entirely sure where he is, he has a pretty good idea. "Errrr...." he mutters as he steps closer to K'nara.
He listens to Brother Bertram, a growing knot in his stomach. Then knowing that he cannot let his blood brother walk alone in this, Gunther moves over to Brother Bertram's side. "Sir, I uhhhh...." Words...why were the words not coming out. For that matter...why am I shaking? Maybe because I stand in front of a being who controls life and death...a being that can suck my soul right out of my body and keep it here forever. Gunther shudders. Memories of the stories of Gargul's role in the formation of the orcs flutter through his brain, as well as terrifying stories of Gargul coming to take little orcs in the middle of the night. Gulping loudly, Gunther clears his throat, but his voice is definitely shaky In his fright, Gunther returns to his native orcish. "Mr. Gargul, sir, I uhhh... I come here to beg you to return the orc Borden. He died in an accident that was all my fault. I should have protected him and I failed him. But more than that, sir, Borden is the hope of our people. He is the one hope for our people to become a civilized nation. Sir, I don't really know what I could offer you if you would give him back to us..." Gunther takes in a deep breath and looks over at K'nara, tears forming in his eyes. "I would take Borden's place if you want it..." Gunther, you idiot! If he wants your soul he'll just take it right now. Do you realize how stupid you sound right now? Shut up and listen you dumb orc. Falling to his knees, Gunther whispers. "I'm sorry, Mr. Gargul, sir. I humbly accept whatever you might decide in this matter."
Lian Thursday December 7th, 2006 11:52:14 AM
Lian blinks at the suddenness of movement then recognizes the place. "Super. More fun to be had. Land of the Dead again."
Mordrid Thursday December 7th, 2006 11:53:13 AM
Ripped from one moment to the next, the ranger goes statue like upon realizing what had been done and where they were now.
Mordrid remains absolutely silent. He has made his mind about a great many things in the last few seconds, but his mind was his own, and his silence was his only defense. Now was not the time, and the solution was simple enough.
He steps behind and to the left of Valdor, and watches, Nick in particular. He hopes the cleric knows what would be done to protect him.
Valdor Thursday December 7th, 2006 11:59:59 AM
When the scenery changes, Valdor looks around, taking a minute to realize that they got caught up in this mess. Seeing Gargul, Valdor moves over beside Nick, knowing that he wouldn't be of any use if the god wanted something from him, but he figures he can give his support anyway. He drops to one knee and bows his head and says nothing.
Ve Mundr Thursday December 7th, 2006 12:18:20 PM
Ve knows too, where he now stands and he is not surprised in the least. This was the possible next Dragon group, undisciplined, ruled by whim and emotion and now those rash desicions and fratured feeling of failure and obsession had dragged all of them before the god of death. The Road to hell is paved with good intentions All of them would now pay for Bordens life. One which Valdor had correctly assessed. One who had ignored more experienced cautionand charged a foe beyond his skills, far beyond his skills with his men. They had all died because of his arrogance and stupidity. How many more would die if he was returned?
Ve moves forward with sure strides at the invitaion of the imp. He had never seen the creature before, but the herald hardly mattered, it was the Master with which they would be in treastie with. Ve touches Father Nicholas on the shoulder as he passes by and takes the foremost position of any other of the Platinum Dragons. Ve does not go so forward to be upon the steps.
Corialote and Amarth Thursday December 7th, 2006 3:21:10 PM
Cori all of the sudden feels like throwing up something fierce. As her world is turned upside down and she finds herself in a totally new place. "This is interesting." She is not even aware that she has spoken out loud as she has never been before the Keeper of the Dead before. As she studies the landscape and watches the others she thinks over what she can do to help out the group. She knows that there is some history here for Nick but she is not sure of all of it...she has never asked.
She slowly moves forward to stand near Nick as well but keeps her face impassive for once. She was once young and impulsive and was still given to fits at times. What has captured her attention most is the different drum of power here...it calls, but is different.
Amarth is in a state of shock and cannot even get himself to move. This was never on his to-do list and he hopes to never repeat it. A trip to see Gargul is not something that he longs to do.
Nick Thursday December 7th, 2006 5:02:48 PM
Those approaching Nick will see a definite look of relief on his face. For this wasn't Ga'al stood before them now, and much praises to the Blessed Alemi, it wasn't Marteaus, either. Whatever price had to be paid here... it could have been worse.
He also stays silent, along with his friends and colleagues. And he keeps his head bowed in respect.
Olana Thursday December 7th, 2006 5:19:42 PM
It occurs to Olana, while ensuring that she was standing as far away from those blood rivers as possible, that she should have a 'word' with that crazy dwarf Bertram once this was all over with. And it was perhaps just as well that there wasn't a wall that she could repeatedly bang her own head on. AND - if any danged one of them questioned her own wisdom about her relationship with a halfling after this... then she'd have some fair ammunition to throw back. Oh, YES indeedy.
Calm down, calm down, calm down... it would be just her luck if Gargul could read minds.
K'Nara (2nd post...technically) Thursday December 7th, 2006 6:15:19 PM
K'Nara lays a hand on Gunther's shoulder and gives him a tender smile, then addresses the Woldian god of death:
"Forgive my presumption, Gargul, for speaking before being spoken to...the good Brother Bertram was acting on my particular feelings about the fate of Borden, whom I'm sure that you know. I would petition on that orc's behalf for him to be allowed into the living Wold once more. Brother Bertram mistakenly thought that I wished for Borden to be resurrected...at a moment that wasn't the best-timed for our groups. I had actually only been looking for an agreement to attempt the resurrection AFTER we had finished our business with Lathiese.
"However, we are here now. Would you allow me, my lord, to state the case for Borden, Orc Leader of Izen...please..?"
Brother Bertram(Second Post) Thursday December 7th, 2006 6:54:34 PM
Bertram jerked as if lashed by K'nara's words. He expected to be spoken to harshly by the Dragons who did not know him, for what he had done, but to hear his own leader explain away his actions as nothing more than a misunderstanding, a foolish mistake....and to his God! And as if that wasnt enough, to tell why he did it...and the reasons couldnt be farther from the truth. Bertram bit his lip until he drew blood, knowing this was hardly the place to bring it up. His hands squeezed the staff until the popping of the wood was audible. He tried to contain his rage, and his shame.
Milo Thursday December 7th, 2006 8:36:18 PM
Trusting in Bertram's wisdom, Milo lays a calm, gentle hand on the dwarf's shoulder, speaking quietly, "Time to reckon with Gargul brother." Milo does his best to reassure Bertram that he supports him in this endeavor, knowing full well the bite of racial scrutiny.
Ingrge / Dahlia Thursday December 7th, 2006 9:15:40 PM
Dahlia wakes with a jolt and nearly falls from the tree. Scrambling down she tries to make sense of what she has just seen. She saw what had happened to Bordon and he didn't emerge from that bath, just like many others. So how was it that she is having a vision of an older Bordon wearing Valdor's armor? Confused and sure she needs to let someone know about this she tears toward the tent coming into sight of it just as the entire tableau changed.
Slowing down she makes her way forward to see what's going on only to find the once united group divided and clustered around their respective clerics and there in front of them all ... Oh Gods!! What is going on? Her mind races as she realizes who it is that is in front of both groups. Stopping for a moment she contritely bows her head to Gargul, gives a wink to Gimp and moves forward so she is somewhere inbetween the two groups.
*****
Just as he finishes speaking about the upcoming visit, Ingrge feels the shift come and even though he was expecting it, he flinches away from the running rivulets of Wold's Blood. He shakes his head a bit at everyone's actions, understanding them in a way but slightly amused anyway. Declining his head in recognition of Gargul pre-eminence in this realm he waits silently near the rear, behind his companions, watching and waiting.
Aeralia (32/40 HP) Friday December 8th, 2006 12:05:13 AM
Aeralia cocks her head slightly to one side, curiously watching the young girl who was so intent on the sorceress' companion. She smiles slightly, and Terrin does as well, waving slightly at the young dragon. The young woman's curiously is quickly halted as the arguement around her escalates. She could hardly beleive what was being said by these great heroes, shocked nearly beyond belief, and certainly turning a little angry.
She was just about to explode at everyone (though mostly Valdor), when the scenery began to shift, giving the sorceress pause. She plinks as she takes in the dramatic change in her surroundings, really not sure whats going on. As others advance and begin to speak to the figures before them, Aeralia takes a few steps back, seperating herself slightly from the rest of her companions.
She remains silent for the time being, waiting to see what occurs, and for a time when she can voice her concerns and emotions towards her companions without the divine presence.
DM Jan Friday December 8th, 2006 1:51:13 AM
"And heralded by the many deaths of others, they come..."
The man on the platform turns to face the group as they approach. His thick, dark hair is a little dishevelled, his dark robe dusty and worn. He is a well built man with broad shoulders, and he wears an expression that, while suggesting he carries the weight of the Wold on his shoulders, also suggests that he has absolutely no misgivings or regrets about it. His aura is compelling, commanding, and no one can remain with their head bowed for long.The urge to look upon him is overwhelming.
He stands, his arms folded, as first Bertram, then Gunther, then K'Nara say their piece. In the meantime, his impish companion scampers over to the elf Olana and gives her a hug, remembering how she carried him at one point, during the battle, in the Year of Ascension, before he returns to his godly companion's side.
Then, the God Gargul raises his hand, calling for silence. "Half disciple Bertram, hand me the finger," he asks, and on taking the charred remains, the God steps back and turns slightly, to look out over the lake of blood.
As the group wait in the ensuing silence, the surroundings come to the fore; the ebb and flow of all life is here, spread out for all to see. The dead are carried in deep, flowing lines of red into the lake and beyond toward those shadowy hills, while the living - those all important first sparks of life, fly high above everyone's heads, back toward the living Wold. It is a display both terrifying and wonderful.
After a moment - "This orc - forgive the crude analogy, but this is an interesting piece you want put back on the table." Another moment, and then he turns back to the group.
"Very well. It shall be done. This one appears to have a destiny that was brought to an unnatural end, and on that note, as I send him back to his homeland, I give you a warning. Do not assume you will always share a common goal. I suspect, looking at some of you, I don't need to go into any detail. But know that his future is your burden."
He focuses then on the flame-haired K'Nara. "When your first born child reaches the age of five years old, you will send him, or her, to my Temple in Plateau City. There, the child will be raised as an Eye of Gargul. It will be an honourable life."
For the very first time during this entire meeting, Gargul smiles.
There is no warning for what happens next, and the scene changes in a split second. Everyone finds themselves back at the battlefield, away from that teaming lake of death and life. The light here is ultra bright in comparison; hard for those who can see well in the darker places. And bright and airy as it is, somehow it seems empty after all that has been witnessed.
Borden's remains - have gone.
Falin Friday December 8th, 2006 8:28:12 AM
Falin watches all that transpires and considers himself lucky for having been able to be in the presence of a god. It was a humbling experience for him.
Trying to compensate for the scenery change is easy for Falin, but the addition of the light change causes him to fall over. He rubs his eyes for a moment and then stands back up. Will have to get used to this light sensitivity.
Looking around Falin says, "Where is Borden?"
Valdor Friday December 8th, 2006 10:11:22 AM
Valdor cringes at K'Nara's cost. He grimaces and remains silent. He listens and hears the words of Gargul. When they appear back at the battleground, he says,"What's done is done and what's past is past. No use dwelling on it now. I'm sorry, K'Nara for the cost to you. I hope you are right about Borden."
He turns to Falin and says,"He's back in his homeland."
He walks off away from the group towards the water and he stands there for a few minutes alone looking out over the lake, deeply concerned for what this cost the Talons, but grateful that Nick was left alone.
Ve Mundr Friday December 8th, 2006 10:18:54 AM
Ve inclines his head as Gargul turns and speaks, but does not leave it bowed overly long. Listening to what Gargul says he is a bit surprised, but within moments alters that initial response to practicality. Gargul then makes the payment known and smiles and that smile trips more alarms and cautions in Ve Mundr's mind then anything else he has ever experienced. Precisely what he feared sounded like it would come to pass when he first met and spoke with Borden. The environment flashes and Ve blinks the sting of the brightened light away.
"I suspect his is in Izen, but to much more important matters. Falin, I confess to not knowing a great deal about your condition, but what I do know is that the window of help is fairly narrow. I understand it is suspected you were afflicted on a recent journey into Koshe Marr. How long ago was the last attack when you were there?"
Brother Bertram Friday December 8th, 2006 10:35:58 AM
Bertram is torn between his anger at K'nara, his pain at the cost of the resurrection, and his gladness that the return of Borden was successful. As soon as he realizes where they are he walks off, not wanting to hear the others. Just wanting some peace for a few blessed minutes before they all start on him.
Lian Friday December 8th, 2006 11:31:04 AM
"Suspected?" Says Lian, looking at Ve. "Didn't you see him? He IS afflicted." Says the elf out of turn.
Mordrid Friday December 8th, 2006 11:55:39 AM
Mordrid gives Valdor a minute or two alone, before he follows him to the lakes edge.
"Valdor, we need to talk... in private."
Ve Mundr Friday December 8th, 2006 1:21:13 PM
"Lian," Ve holds up a defensive and calming hand. "I did not mean to imply that his condition was suspect, but when and where Falin became afflicted. I heard earlier conversation about Harrowed Moon, also known as Koshe Marr and need you, him, indeed all of the Talons that were there to confirm not only that supistion, but do your best to narrow it to the extact moment. Time is not on Falin's side in this matter."
K'Nara d20=19 Friday December 8th, 2006 4:25:32 PM
K'Nara tilted her head at Gargul's words about her future progeny...that would be interesting, seeing as how the blade singer couldn't actually envision herself as having children.
Then she nodded Valdor's way, acknowledging his words, but her attention was centered on Bertram's reactions. She pondered why he was so upset, then the answer smacked her in the back of her head. (OOC: made a Wisdom check of 19.)
She hurried over to the cleric, and--upon reaching him--knelt before him on the ground.
"Forgive me, please, my friend." K'Nara asked him sincerely. "I not only expressed myself badly in front of Gargul, but I made the same mistake Valdor did...by assuming your motivation.
"Just as Valdor's assumption that I wanted Borden's resurrection simply because I wanted to 'please my man' was wrong for him to make, so was my own assumption that you precipitated the resurrection of Borden simply to please me as the leader of the Talons." She sighed.
"I didn't mean to belittle your actions or why you did them--but I believe that Gargul knows what you did and why...and he confirmed to us that, regardless of how I botched the explanation for it, your resurrecting Borden reversed a death that should not have happened." She bowed her head once more.
"So I ask you most humbly...please forgive me."
Nick Friday December 8th, 2006 6:55:18 PM
Nick emerges with a slight sense of astonishment.
Well, that didn't appear to have gone too badly, in his own opinion. Time would tell on the orc, and the idea of a child going into the priesthood seemed, to him, a sensible idea. After all, although he wasn't the oldest sibling, Nick was shipped off to the Temple of Alemi at a very young age. It didn't do him any harm - he was fed, clothed, wasn't bullied, and he got an exceedingly good education.
He's assuming, going off her reaction, that K'Nara feels the same way about it.
While Ve asks Falin questions, Nick looks around for the silver dragon, hoping none of this scared her away. For time was marching on, and they needed to focus.
Mordrid Friday December 8th, 2006 6:58:56 PM
Mordrid and Valdor continue in a deep conversation for many minutes; Mordrid kicking stones into the lake, and Valdor with his arms crossed in thought.
Valdor Friday December 8th, 2006 11:35:53 PM
From a distance, Valdor can be seen nodding, then shaking his head. His armor is still covered in blood from the dragon he cut a hole into and from the barbarian he obliterated, and he finally wades out into the lake a few feet while he's still talikng to Mordrid. He dunks his head under first and rinses out the blood from his mane of hair. Then he wipes the blood from his swords, then he proceeds to splash water on his armor to clean it off, all the while looking out into the water, as though he expects the black dragon to surface at any second.
(Scott, never got your email at work or home. I'll be at work Saturday so email me at stevehott@herbeasley.com )
[OOC: Steve, we will pick this conversation up on Monday morning. I will resnd the e-mail that you didnt get.]
Corialote and Amarth Friday December 8th, 2006 11:43:45 PM
Cori is so lost in other thoughts at the time that she is not even aware that the group has returned to the Wold. Oh she had heard every word well enough but she was not thinking on that right now. She is seeking something deeper inside of herself...something that was not good.
Amarth moves off to the side and finds a tree that is still in fairly nice shape. He perches there are he tucks a wing over his head to get a little extra sleep. He is not needed and is not sure how he will play into the next battle.
Aeralia (32/40 HP) Saturday December 9th, 2006 12:27:28 AM
Aeralia continues to remain silent, doing her best to hold in the anger and frustration she held towards some of the others gathered. As reality shifts back to normal, Aeralia continues to watch silently as several of each party move off to be on thier own, and hold conversations away from the rest of the group.
"So, how exactly are we to get home," she wonders outloud, mostly to herself, but loud enough for the others still gathered to hear. "Not that I have a home, so I suppose here is as good as anywhere," she adds, a little more quietly, glancing about towards the horizon. "Wonder where the nearest town of village is?" she continues to converse with herself, not seeming to expect any answers from anyone as she begins to dig through her pack wearily.
Falin Saturday December 9th, 2006 12:59:37 AM
"Lian, I take no ill will from Ve's coments. I hate being the cause of grief between friends." Falin reaches out and grasps Lians shoulder reasuringly. " I thank you for your concern though."
Falin then turns to Ve. "We were attacked the night we returned from Koshe Marr. We then were at a celebration in our honor for a few days and then we made the trip back to culverwood and thenw ere there for a day and then the traveling here. So I would say 9 days since my attack." OOC: I am guessing. I have tried to figure out how many days it has been so I may be off, but I know it has been at least a week.
Brother Bertram Saturday December 9th, 2006 4:41:59 AM
Bertram turned on K'nara in a rage and raised his hand as if to strike her. "You arrogant fool of a woman. Not everything in this group revolves around you. I am tired of it! You have no right to speak for what my motives and thoughts on matters might be. And you have NO right whatsoever to take on MY debts! "And..and, an,.." The extremity of Bertram's emotion was too much, his breath coming in ragged gasps, and suddenly the tears come. "Oh K'nara I cost you your child!!" Bertram suddenly throws himself in the arms of the kneeling K'nara, sobbing, all of his pent up anxiety and frustration pouring out in one tumultuous flood.
Gunther Saturday December 9th, 2006 8:42:27 AM
Gunther is so filled of conflicting emotions, that he is about to burst. Joy at the knowledge that Borden has returned. Anticipation at all the work that will need to be done to create a stable orc nation. Pain at the loss of his first born child. He is so caught up in his ruminations that he doesn't notice Bertram and K'nara moving off. The sound of Bertram's raised voice snaps him out of his thoughts. He heads over to where Bertram and K'nara are embrased. It had been an emotionally draining hour, and so he goes over and places his hands on the pair's shoulders. "I owe both of you so much! Broder, vat you did vas...more dan I could ever have expected. Tank you broder! And K'nara, my love..." Gunther chokes up, unable to express his gratitude and love to the bladesinger who had stood by his side and paid a high price. Shaking, he stands quietly for a few minutes. Then his body tenses. "Broder, K'nara, ve still have a lot of vork to do. Ve need to find a vay to heal our broder Falin. And ve have a dragon to kill." Gunther beams down at his family, thankful to have such close friends. "Come on" he gently jokes "If ve don't hurry up den dere might not be any dragon left for us."
After making sure that K'nara and Brother Bertram are in a good place, Gunther heads over to the newest Talon Aeralia. "Ma'am. I vanted to let you know dat you vere fabulous in de battle! If it vasn't for your magic, ve probably vould have had to kill off a lot of innocent humans. Your vork saved many lives." Sensing her anger, Gunther lays a hand on her shoulder. "Is everting ok? You seem...upset." Gunther grins at the enchantress. "You shouldn't hold in dose kinds of feelings. De last time I did someting like dat, I ended up almost breaking Broder Bertram's jaw." Laughing a little, Gunther makes sure to listen to whatever Aeralia might need to say, never once interrupting.
Brother Bertram (Second Post) Saturday December 9th, 2006 11:59:58 AM
Bertram regains control of himself and steps back wiping his face, regaining control. He smile gratefully at Gunther and K'nara then moves away from the others to try and give himself some time to pull himself together.
Valdor Saturday December 9th, 2006 3:33:09 PM
After Valdor and Mordrid have their talk, Valdor walks over to Cori. Now that he's partially clean, he feels better about approaching her. He kisses her cheek and whispers into her ear,"You look a bit distracted, my dear. You don't need that thing to bring you power. You already have power and it is promising you more than it can deliver. It makes the same promises to me. But where it wants you to go, we can't be together. So beat it and come back to me."
He hugs her and leaves her to her thoughts. He walks back to the main group and says loudly,"We have a dragon to kill. I leave in one hour. Any who wish to finish this can join me, any who don't...then don't. Clerics and mages, I would suggest you have your spells ready. I called them out before, and noone offered any other suggestions. If you have any then make them known.
We will always disagree and for our own reasons, but we still have a job to do. We need to put our disagreements behind us and go back to where we were two days ago as a group, united in one cause. What we all CAN agree on, is that there's a black dragon out there to kill. Whoever will come with me, I'll be waiting with the girl."
Olana Sunday December 10th, 2006 2:23:01 PM
Although her eyes hurt for a moment in the sunlight, Olana is glad to see it. She stands to the side a bit, watching. An impulsive lot, her family was, and not being a particularly demonstrative sort of elf, she cannot share this particular roller-coaster ride of emotion currently going on. "You okay, Milo?" she asks. Everyone else seemed to be, so apart from Falin's condition...
She shrugs, checks her weapons and heads over toward Valdor. She's still a bit annoyed at Bert. However, they did all get out in one piece. That had to count for something, so - she's going to let that go.
Crazy people...
Mordrid Sunday December 10th, 2006 3:03:52 PM
Mordrid walks back over to the group with Valdor, glad to see various members working things out. The Platinums functioned like some kind of para-military operation, the Talons; well, they were a passionate lot. Lapses in judgement may or may not have been made, however they were a tight group; and that goes a very long way.
After Valdor has made his peace, the ranger offers, "anyone need magic arrows?"
As soon as time permits, Mordrid will approach Ve; in private or in public, however the situation presents itself. "I just wanted to say how thoroughly impressed I was with your actions on the battlefield. Well, everything before and after the battle too. We fight well together, and I am honored to do so. Domi be praised, he has gifted us with your presence."
Not wanting to be overly sappy, the ranger gets back into his work without looking back.
Ve Mundr Sunday December 10th, 2006 4:42:14 PM
"Nine days?" a pause "At least nine you say." Ve can not keep the slight grimace from his face. His choices of removing this curse from Falin were quickly diminishing, but he did not kow all there was to know of Lycanthropy so there might still be hope. With Valdors decissin to embark after the Black dragon in an hour made, though, Falin would have to wait a few more hours. Looking over at Valdor as he speaks, "Falin, I give my word that you and I will resume this before nightfall." With a nod to him, Ve is turning and moving in Valdors direction. The time of his prayers had long passed so he only required a few minutes.
Mordrid is spyied heading towards him and he alters his own path to meet the ranger. Ve dips his head in quick acceptance of the compliment and manages to get out, "Despite our less the auspicious beginnigs, I am very glad we all have come into the ability to show our true colors. I will be right beside you." and with that he moves to Valdor.
"I have 44 hours of Water breathing I can divide among those going. I had also prepared several energy and movement prayers this morning. I will also be able to render about any minions he may have with him non combative within 80' feet of me. Otherwise I will be right next to you and Mordrid unless you plan to strictly forbid me"
Spells in effect: Greater Magic Weapon Magic Vestment Armor Magic Vestment Shield Endure Elements
Milo Sunday December 10th, 2006 11:29:14 PM
Thinking to himself, Hmmm... eye of Gargul huh? Doesn't sound so bad... I suppose I could be wrong...
Turning to Olana, Milo stretches his arms way out smiling broadly, "Why yes... I'm simply peachy mah love." Milo giggles as he rushes Olana, embracing her, and then joining her as she heads toward Valdor.
Posting Reports for Monday December 11th, 2006 5:46:04 AM
Game # 1 The Platinum Dragons For the Week of Dec 4,2006
Name-----MTWTF DM Jan----XXXXX Valdor----22X22S Mordrid---XOXO2S Fr.Nick---X2XXX Dalhia----XXXXO VE Mont---XXX22 Corealot--XXXXX
Adm Ceil
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Posting Report for Game # 3 The Emeral Talons The week of Dec 4,2006
adm Ceil> I wonder what Color Dragon they will become??
K'Nara Monday December 11th, 2006 9:54:10 AM
K'Nara sighed--clearly there would be many more things to ponder...afterwards.
Right now, however, she had to get all this sticky dragon blood and gunk off herself and her armor. She hastened to go do that--time was of the essence, since there was still Lathiese to deal with.
DM Jan Monday December 11th, 2006 12:07:10 PM
The young silver dragon is there, reverted back to her dragon form, and she hovers about twenty feet in the air, in a space clear of the dark smoke rising from the now dying funeral pyres.
The remaining elves are stood close by, waiting for instructions, as the group goes about getting themselves ready for the next encounter. A little further south, what's left of the camp appear to be preparing the three ships for a voyage.
the weather off the coast seems to be dissipating, revealing a lovely sunny morning out toward the lake. As for the land side to the east -
As the group clean armour, prepare weapons, spells and discuss tactics, something strange happens. A vision appears in their minds, it comes from the silver...traveling on the wing... through the trees at the edge of the clearing, and eastward, over a flat meadow with swaying grasses..... rocks appear like bones, a few at first.... the ground starts to rise, and it becomes grey limestone, moulded by rains and wind.....climbing to a flat plateau.... further east, a great waterfall that disappears underground.... and directly below - a dark hole, fifteen feet across...
And there the vision ends. If the group looks to the east, they can see a little of the distant plateau through the trees, maybe three miles away.
((OOC - folks let me know whether you need some time (and how much) for the casters and clerics to recuperate, or whether you're going straight in.))
Valdor Monday December 11th, 2006 2:34:36 PM
Valdor replies to Ve,"Take whatever time you need, I didn't realize that our clerics and mages didn't get any sleep and be able to rest. Pass the word along. If some need to rest, then that is fine. Falin's health is more important than rushing off to kill Lathiese. Do what you can for him. I'll check on our troops and make sure everyone has a destination. I'll contact Sturdevant and have him talk to the Overlord at Floating City and make arrangements for them to be well received as heroes, if that's where they want to go."
He then activates his Knight of the Realms ring and says,"Sturdevant, the threat is ended for now. We defeated the three red dragons that led the mercenaries and, with the Talon's new sorceress and our newest cleric, were able to convert them to our cause. We have paid them the gold they were promised, and then some. Some of them wanted to visit the Float and may even stay on and live there. They are loyal, I assure you, but could you make sure the Overlord is prepared to meet them and that they are given a heroes welcome.
If any were still harboring ill will, that would eliminate it, and it would cost the Overlord nothing to make them feel special. They helped foil the plot of Lathiese, the black dragon in the vision, who is the one behind all of this. We haven't faced him yet, but are resting our spellcasters to be able to go after him and do battle with him.
Also, you might let the Overlord know that Lady Solara is dead. Apparently, Lathiese knows she spoke to us before the big battle and he killed her. I know she was a black dragon, but she was friendly with Floating City and cared about her home. I am speculating about Lathiese, but her head was bitten off in dragon form and it would take a stronger dragon to pull that off.
Hopefully, we'll have this threat eliminated very quickly. I'll let you know when it's done. Make sure the Overlord welcomes these fighting men...it will bolster their defense of the city."
He sits down and decides it's time to rest, even though he's not injured or tired. He then tells Ve,"If you need me to get something, hold him still, or anything else, let me know."
Dahlia / Ingrge Monday December 11th, 2006 5:25:50 PM
Dahlia catches up to Valdor at a point after he takes his dip in the lake and tells heim of her latest vision of an older borden wearing armor identical to Valdor's with the only difference being the letter. / She then takes a bit of time to go through her equipment nearly mindlessly sharpening her blades to nearly razor sharpness.
******
Ingrge watching as K'nara and Bertram again work their way through yet another misunderstanding, sees that Falin is back and in confab with Ve and wanders over to see if there is anything he can do to help; offering his remove curse scrolls if they will be of any help. At the mention of rest Ingrge mentions that while he did yuse several of his most potent spells in getting the group here, he does have quite a few things left in his arsenal, though some rest and study could be beneficial to all.
Brother Bertram Monday December 11th, 2006 6:49:51 PM
Bertram moves to the nearest water he can find and submerges his head under, coming up snorting from the cold water. He shakes his head like a terrier, spraying water from his grizzled, matted, gore splattered beard and face. He next checks his axe for any damage in the last battle, seeing nothing that a few moments with a whetstone wont resolve he finds a private spot and prays quietly, prayers of thanks, and guidance, and for aid in the coming battle.
Lian Monday December 11th, 2006 7:23:19 PM
Lian rolls his eyes at the conversation, shakes his head and sits down. "I'm exhausted."
The Hand of Domi sits in silent witness of the proceedings.
He turns to Nick. "What spells will we need?"
Corialote and Amarth Monday December 11th, 2006 7:52:08 PM
Cori looks to Valdor as he approaches and smiles. His hug is the one thing that she could have used about now and that gave her that warm feeling inside...that drove away the darkness. "You are right...but that thing will not give up, of that I am sure." She does not plan to give in to the feeling that invades her but she does study it at times...trying to find weaknesses.
As she moves off she makes her way back down to the beach. With the new change in plans she has time for a quick dip and then prepare some spells. She quickly sheds her clothes, not a bit modest in that she is soon standing naked for a few seconds before heading into the water. Those that might be paying attention now find that the white tattooing that covers her the exposed parts of her body, in fact cover the whole body.
Amarth watches as his Mistress slips into the water and sighs. He flutters down to perch on a piece of driftwood and keep an eye out for trouble. "The time has come for us to settle down." He is as old as he needs to be and as young as he needs to be for his Mistress's needs...but he feels a yearning for peace.
Mordrid Monday December 11th, 2006 8:09:17 PM
[OOC: I have a cold. This is my post tonight.]
Mordrid again checks if anyone needs their arrows magicked.
Gunther Monday December 11th, 2006 10:20:42 PM
The warrior watches over K'nara, making sure that if she desires, she gets a chance to rest. He also checks in on the surviving orcs, making sure that they get some rest. "Brothers, I know the battle we faced was difficult, be we have an even more challenging road ahead of us tomorrow. I do not blame you if you do not want to go with us tomorrow. You may return home without any shame. If you do travel with us as we hunt the black dragon, make sure to leave the actual fighting of the dragon to us." Gunther clears his throat uncomfortably. "Dragons can be deadly as we have seen." He turns and looks at each orc. "What are you names and what skills do you have? I will need to know such things should you decide to join us."
Aeralia Monday December 11th, 2006 11:00:19 PM
Aeralia smiles weakly and wearily as Gunther offers his praise. "Well, we all did what we could right?" the young sorceress responds plainly, shrugging lightly. "Even if it wasn't enough, or if we arn't as strong as some might deem required," she adds to the orc-raised warrior, shooting a glance towards Valdor, a slight hint of hostility in her voice and face.
"Oh, I'm sorry," she quickly apologizies to Gunther when he inquires further. "I didn't mean to let anything get the better of me. I'll talk it out with Terrin, once we get a chance. I don't mean to be a bother."
Once the word is passed that they could rest if needed, Aeralia will wait and make sure others take the opportunity (so shes not the only one holding them all up), and if so, she lay out her bedroll, and try to get some rest.
K'Nara Tuesday December 12th, 2006 12:44:53 AM
K'Nara is as quick and efficient as possible when it comes to cleaning herself and her armor up. She listens as Gunther speaks to the orcs, then addresses the big cat trainer:
"Gunther, if you can convince these two to return to Izen, I'd appreciate it. We only know that Borden was resurrected, but we have no idea if he remembers what happened--and I would prefer to be able to have at least two of his people return to him in living condition, so that he knows that the Emerald Talons have faith in him and his vision for a unified nation."
K'Nara nods.
"However, it IS completely up to them..." she says with a bit of self-deprecating smile, "...after all, if they'd prefer to be in on that battle with the black dragon, far be it from us to gainsay their wishes."
Falin Tuesday December 12th, 2006 12:55:44 AM
Falin welcomes the cold water of the lake as he washes the gunk and grime off his body and armor. The cold water almost makes him forget for an instant what he has become.
He shakes the water from himself and then dries himself and his gear off. He checks all of his equipment for the trip.
He turns to Mordrid, "Yes, I could use the arrows if you are still offering them."
He walks over to Ve, "Thank you for the offer of help. I will take what I can get these days. I trust we will find an answer. Until then the best I can do I guess is hope there is no full moon." He says the last with a bit of a smirk.
While the priests and the wizards are readying themselves Falin will wander to the outskirts of the camp. His intent is to look for signs of the wolves he was running with the previous night. He wants to see them one last time before they set out.
Lian Tuesday December 12th, 2006 11:51:42 AM
Lian remains sitting, meditating over the last few days of activities... the dragons, orcs, archers, etc.
If anyong has something to directly state to Lian, he will listen. Otherwise, he is in a trance.
Ve Mundr d20+16=35 Tuesday December 12th, 2006 1:33:21 PM
Ve nods as Valdor speaks, "It would allow us the time we need." His voice becomes a low whisper at this point, "The problem is, we will not know if Falin is strong enough to shed himself of this until the full moon tonight. Last night was a terrible realization for him. I will do what I can, but most of it will be in his hands. If restraint is needed, I would have one of the Talons do it." Having overheard Aeralia, "A fewer of us involved in what could be a failed attempt the better."
Ve gives a small update to Valdor on his impression of the men milling about and then gets back to Falin. "I will do all that I can, but most of ridding yourself of this curse lies within you. I can only present you with the choice to leave the beast behind. We will begin at sundown. Meditate and pray Falin, center your being and know that those gathered about you will see you through as best as we can."
With that Ve leaves Falin with his thoughts and closes with Gunther and K`Nara. One because of his size and the other as Falin's leader. "A moment of time. Tonight I will give Falin the keys to unlocking his cell. If he fails, he will turn. I am not in favor of chaining him and thus giving his doubht and anxiety about his condition any more weight. He will need his mind focused. But we must be prudent in case. I will know instantly either way and I can contain him, but I think it important that the Talons be," he pauses a moment or two, "That the Talons be the most direct form of intersession." Ve glances towards the wood line where Falin is searching out a trail of the ravenous wolves of the night before.
To the orc conversation, Ve says nothing
Valdor Tuesday December 12th, 2006 2:33:40 PM
Valdor nods to Ve and says,"If one of them is strong enough, then fine by me. If you need me then let me know. I don't want him to break free during the ceremony and end up worse off or not healed. He can make the call on who retains him, or K'Nara can. Either way is fine by me."
Valdor watches Cori strip and, seeing the tattoos, he says ti himself,"Well, I guess that answers that."
He goes over to Lian and plops down and asks,"So, how are your insides feeling after being chewed on by a dragon? You know, not many people alive in the Wold can say they were trapped in a red dragons mouth and lived. Also, I was glad you found a way to keep it from breathing fire again. That was masterfully done." He's trying to keep from grinning, but having a hard time of it.
Nick Tuesday December 12th, 2006 2:48:28 PM
Nick thinks for a moment when Lian asks him about spells. "We'll need as much protection as we can get. I can help there, in general terms. Black dragons spit streams of acid, and I suspect, if other dragons encountered on the Ellenian Peninsula are anything to go by, he'll be a fire breather as well. "Now if that young lady up there was showing us a glimpse of his lair, we'll need light. The waterfall suggested an underground river, to me, although I could be wrong. Cori told us that Addeinein, the Storm Dragon killed in the last encounter, suffered death by drowning, so - water breathing, just in case."
He sighs. "I'd better start praying." And with that, he finds a quiet spot, and does just that.
Olana Tuesday December 12th, 2006 2:50:25 PM
Olana wanders over to Mordrid. "I'll take some magic for my arrows if I may," she says to the ranger.
DM Jan Tuesday December 12th, 2006 3:11:44 PM
((Eeeek, sorry this is a bit late, folks. I went to the post office early, thinking it would be quiet. Big mistake!))
And so!
The rest of the morning is taken up with preparation, rest, recuperation, and getting in the mindset for the task ahead.
Sturtavent sounds optimistic and relieved when contacted by Valdor. Nevertheless- "Be careful," he says, "and we'll do what needs to be done, here. I'll tell the Overlord about Lady Solara. That's a surprize."
The two orcs are willing to accompany Gunther into battle, although their facial expression when K'Nara suggests otherwise, tells him that home, and Borden, are preferable.
Falin neither sees nor smells any sign of the wolf pack, although the lingering aroma of burning flesh in the area gives him a good asnwer to why. Instead, he finds himself approached by the remaining fifteen elves. Of all his immediate subordinates, only the young female Al'thra is left. "What do you want us to do?" she asks. "The one named Mordrid has said he can enhance our arrows, and if nothing else, we could bear torches."
Time passes, and it is now mid - afternoon.
Brother Bertram Tuesday December 12th, 2006 4:41:54 PM
Having made sure that his spells are in place, Bertram moves over to join the others, unsure what his welcome might be.
Lian Tuesday December 12th, 2006 4:50:27 PM
The monk looks up and smiles, then snickers. "Well, it wasn't the first time I've been in a dragons mouth and lived. But a red, yes, by all means it was the first. Not many people alive can say they have traveled with and were saved by the Dragonstone either. I thank you for that honor, friend Valdor."
He thinks a moment, then adds. "I'm sure the red was a bit too busy to worry about breathing, having been dead an instant later. It was the least of his problems. Now Gargul has to sort it out I suspect."
He turns back to Nick. "So, fire and acid resistance, maybe lesser restoration. I also suggest using our Meditation Incense too, if we have time. I can start burning them now..." He figgits in his pockets for the blocks. (Hey, I remembered this time.) "I know can only really help with healing, but I'm not too experienced with traveling around with casters of your stature..." He then shoots a glance of apology at Bertram. "... Oh geez, sorry Brother, I didn't mean you specifically, just in general terms. Ack and not a slight about your height... sheesh." Dodging arrows! "Can they be of use?" He says, hoping the comment is forgotten.
Valdor Tuesday December 12th, 2006 6:24:52 PM
Valdor cheeks flush at the compliment. He slaps Lian on the leg and stands saying,"I just happened to be in the right place at the right time. The others would have gotten you out quickly enough. But...thank you. It's the first half way appreciative words I've heard in some time."
He walks off, gratified at Lian's acknowledgement. So many times, he's taken the brunt of a fight to keep others from damage and harm's way. This was the first fight he could remember that he didn't even take a hit. Now he knows how Mordrid feels...:)
Brother Bertram Tuesday December 12th, 2006 8:18:27 PM
Bertram walks up in time to hear Lian's words. He shrugs at the attempted apology then considers the incense, "Definitely cant hurt at this point." He then finds a place to set and starts sharpening his axe to a keen edge in preparation, from time to time looking at the tattoo on his hand curiously.
K'Nara Tuesday December 12th, 2006 8:55:01 PM
K'Nara fixes Ve with a particularly hard stare for a moment, but then brushes aside whatever hard feelings that she may have had when the cleric mentions his plan to help Falin.
"Gunther definitely has more muscle," she tells the Platinum Dragon, "But I will aid in any way I can...you may count on it."
K'Nara then speaks to Gunther softly, so that the orcs don't hear her:
"Then tell your brothers that their place is with Borden, and if they would convey the faith that the Emerald Talons have in Borden's dream and his ability to make it real, we would greatly appreciate it." She roots about for a moment, coming up with a pouch that contains 200gp.
"Their share of the money that was here." the cauled blade singer says, then hands Gunther the pouch. "I'm hoping that Borden himself will come to call on us as a friend in the near future."
K'Nara also makes sure to take advantage of Mordrid's offer to enchant arrows.
Mordrid Tuesday December 12th, 2006 10:04:37 PM
[OOC: still sick]
everyones quivers are full of +5 arrows.
[1 charge on rod per 50 arrows - retiring soon, what do I care]
Milo Wednesday December 13th, 2006 3:02:27 AM
Milo is for the most part, quiet as others make preparations.
Falin Wednesday December 13th, 2006 3:22:19 AM
Falin takes in the information he is given. He has a choice to make. Last night everyone was lucky and he didn't turn on any of his friends, but that may not happen a second time.
He is brought out of his trance when the other elves approach and ask for counsel. He must be strong for them. "I wish for you all to arm yourselves with as many arrows as you can carry. I would like each of you to carry a torch as well. That way if any of our friends who can not see in the dark need help we can be their light bearers. I want to let each of you know that you have done well and have brought great credit and pride to the elves of the Culverwood. We are a proud and noble people who are capable of fighting for what is right. You have also proven that we can work with the other races to make this a better Wold. Now go and prepare yourselves for what may happen tonite. Know that no matter what I am proud to call you my brothers and sisters."
As the elves walk away to ready themselves Falin calls out to Al'thra. "I would speak to you in private for a moment." Waiting for the others to walk off Falin speaks, "You have become a good leader for these elves and I believe you will continue to be come a great leader when we return to the Culverwood. You have taken on a lot in your young age and apologize for piling more on, but I ask that you help me with something." Falin takes in a deep breath and slowly releases it. "I have been afflicted with lycanthropy and I am asking for your help. I will join you on the battlefield tonite as is my place. If I were to begin to turn on any of our allies tonite I want you to order the other elves to incapacitate me. If that means firing upon me then so be it. I want you work it out with the elves, but not tell me what you are going to do. That way I will not know if I loose control what I should be looking for."
He stands and waits for her answer.
Aeralia Wednesday December 13th, 2006 8:01:46 AM
Aeralia gathers her things once shes done resting and preparing, waiting for the order to move out.
(OOC: Out of town at a seminar for 3 days, won't be posting til friday night.)
Gunther Wednesday December 13th, 2006 8:35:39 AM
Gunther listens carefully when approached by Ve. If there was any chance of taking away this terrible disease from Falin, then Gunther is more than willing to help in whatever way he can. "Yes, I vill hold him for you." Gunther's big blue eyes look up at and hold Ve's as he lowers his voice to a very low whisper. "So, you tink you can cure him of dis? It's just...I've never seen anyvon who had it make it out alive."
Gunther grins mischieviously at K'nara's advice. She was the brains of the outfit, no question! Gunther strides over to Valdor. The way he and his companions had surrounded Father Nicholas during the time with Gargul...Gunther had seen it...taken note of it. Though he doesn't know exactly what Valdor was doing, he does recognize the basic body language of protection. He is still closed minded, no doubt about it, but in some part, this Valdor's actions were also an attempt to protect his friend... And that he understood and could respect. "Valdor, I vould like to ask for your help. I vould like to send these two orcs back to Izen and Borden. You know the rulers of dis land and if you could arrange for safe passage of dem back to Izen, den I vould appreciate it." Gunther lowers his voice. "You have made it very clear dat you and I don't see eye to eye on de matter of de orc nation. But, it seems to me, dat at dis particular time, it vould be in both of our best interests for dese orcs to leave." Gunther bows respectfully and then heads over to the orcs.
Pulling the orcs aside, Gunther looks down warmly at the warriors. "Brothers, I have no doubts to your loyalty, but right now, I feel that Borden needs you more than I do." Gunther presses the bag of coin into one of the orc's hands. "Here is the money you earned for your bravery." Gunther's gaze turns steely and he makes sure that both of the orcs are very clear on this matter. "It is to be divided evenly for you. 100 for you and..." Gunther sighs and fishes a small pouch out of his pocket. Dividing the gold up, Gunther hands each orc one sack. "Brothers, we are entering a new age. An age when we will see the orc nation rise...an age when our children will no longer starve to death. Stand tall brothers. Do not let the other races see you fight among yourselves. Be proud of yourself and proud of our people." Gunther fishes in his pack and pulls out a deep blue spindel (500gp). He hands it to one of the orcs. "You are to give this gem to Borden. It is his wages for the last battle." Gunther fixes the orc with a stare. "I know that my brother's would not dream of trying to take something that belongs to Borden and keep it for themselves... because then I would have to punish them very severly." Gunther's look softens. "When you return to Izen, see out Borden. Tell him that the Emerald Talons are pleased to hear that he is well and that as soon as I am able, I will return to Izen to help him rebuild and train his army if he would like.
Valdor d100=29 Wednesday December 13th, 2006 11:00:04 AM
When Gunther approaches him, Valdor is wondering what kind of verbal barrage he's about to her. When Gunther makes his request, however, Valdor smiles and says,"Ah, now I understand. You thought I was against an orc nation. Think back to what I offered to Borden when we first met him and he told us his intention. I offered that, if he was successful in his mission to build his nation, that I would even act as an ambassador between Plateau City and his nation.
Gunther, I was not and still am not, against an orc nation. I was concerned with raising him from the dead when we might have needed that for Falin, or any one of us after we face the black dragon. I hope he remembers the battle, and learned a valuable lesson from his mistake to always just charge in. Mordrid has much more experience that he does in battling dragons, and he ignored the advice given. He died for his mistake.
To show my intent, I will teleport them myself back to the Inn where we first came across them. The road home...well, we don't exactly know where we are right now, so I couldn't begin to point them in the right direction. Hopefully there are no more hydras out there, but I'll handle this personally while Ve prepares to help Falin.
Let's bury any ill feelings Gunther. You are very sensitive about this, and no, I didn't know enough about you to understand that. But, you also need to understand where other people are coming from, as well. Many times in my past have I jumped to a conclusion too quickly and probably will do so until my death. Being a leader sometimes means rubbing people the wrong way. I apologize for that. We are on the same side and shouldn't be at odds, my friend."
He makes sure the orcs are ready and moves off with them away from the group. Once they have done so, he put the ring on, passes the ring to them and gets then gets it back and pictures the corral where they first saw the orcs. He'll land them off to the side about fifty yards to make sure they don't land on anyone or in front of a wagon.
Once there, Valdor says in common,"Go find your home. Tell Borden that Valdor gives his best." He strikes his chest with his fist in salute, then teleports back to the group.
Lian Wednesday December 13th, 2006 12:05:23 PM
The monk stands and approaches Gunther and Valdor. "Dragonstone, you are a very busy man now days and might need a proxy sent in your stead as ambassador. I can't think of a better man than Gunther for that job." He places a hand on Gunther's shoulder.
Lian moves to Milo, to whom he hasn't spoke for awhile, and asks, "In the upcoming battle I think I will likely be a support caster. I know your generally self sufficient, but this battle will be different, I'm sure. Which spells might I prepare for you... both? " He adds, seeing Olana nearby.
Later, if time permits, he will burn the meditation incense. Hopefully Nick, Bertram, and any other divine casters will join them. Lian of course will also be there.
Corialote and Amarth Wednesday December 13th, 2006 1:25:14 PM
Cori takes her time in the ocean water and then slowly moves out of it, feeling a lot more refreshed and clean. She does take the time to cast a couple of really simple spells to get rid of the salt from her body and then to see that her clothes are cleaned.
Dressing slowly she wonders of the future and what this battle will mean for them. We she get the chance to retire or will this be her final resting place. "It matters very little...though I would have liked to of settled down with a certain someone." Her gaze searches for Valdor in all the mess but she does not see him. She feels a pang of loss that causes a few tears to fall but she pulls herself together quickly.
She hopes that if the man comes to find her he will look under the tree in this spot a little ways from the group. Still she settles in with her spellbook and starts the preparations for the following day.
Amarth is strangely absent as he gives his Mistress time to be alone. He sits in one of the few trees that remain whole and watches the camp.
Ve Mundr Wednesday December 13th, 2006 1:37:50 PM
Ve ignores or misses the look of K`Nara as he approaches. His mind is set well at the responces, though he didn't think they would answer differently of course. "Gunther I will be asking you to stand by Falin then tonght, do no put a hand on him except as a reassurance. You will act as his base and pillar. I will cast several spells in preparation upon Falin and then we shall see what we see." With a reassuring hand the man's shoulder Ve replies, "He is strong and yes I do believe he can save himself if we show him the way. Now I have a bit of preparation myself before night. Excuse me."
Ve goes to Lian and takes him to Father Nicholas so the three of them can pray together in the Meditation Block's burning incense.
Mordrid Wednesday December 13th, 2006 3:21:42 PM
Upon hearing the casters discuss what would be needed during their next fight with the dragon, Mordrid speaks up, "the problem with a dragon is it takes heavy magic to penetrate their hides. People should memorize spells like greater magic weapon. A smart dragon will have many magical defense up; stone skin for instance. So dispell magics would be perfect. You can go ahead and assume that a dragon has magical defenses up. The biggest problem with a dragon is when they use range weapons when you're stuck with melee; like when a dragon is in flight. So anyway we can stop it from flying or swimming. Last but not least, attack first for gods sakes. What were we waiting for yesterday? And there's a trick we can use... if you can cast silence on my arrows." Mordrid just seems to be rambling as he squares away his packs and quiver.
Nick Wednesday December 13th, 2006 5:20:30 PM
Nick tries to keep focussed on his devotions as the others make themselves ready in their own way. However, the slight distraction of some of the others arriving with the meditation incense is welcome, and was no doubt more potent an aid to concentration that what he had.
For a little while, he tries to empty his mind of the battle ahead. Thoughts of it - anxieties, plans - were nipping at his mental heels like a Plateau City noblewoman's lap dog.
Olana Wednesday December 13th, 2006 5:33:39 PM
Olana smiles as her arrows are enchanted, and places them carefully in her quiver.
Then she goes and sits quietly next to Milo. "When we get into this, try not to get your head bitten off, okay?" she says to him quietly with a smile.
DM Jan Wednesday December 13th, 2006 6:32:47 PM
As the scent of incense overcomes that of the battle aftermath, Valdor disappears with the two orcs, and the preparations continue.
Al'thra gives Falin an odd look. "Some of us saw what you became. It was a fearful thing, and yet, you did not attack us." She shrugs. "But we will do what must be done. Know that we do not wish to cause you pain, Brother Falin." And with that, she rejoins the others getting ready.
Elsewhere, as eyes are closed in prayer, or mesmerized by the ritual of polishing and sharpening weapons; and heads are buried deep in spellbooks - Cori's familiar Amarth spots the big cat Thaeri crouched intently by the lakeshore. The panther rises slightly, and then dives quickly into the water, emerging moments later with a large, blue-scaled fish in her jaws.
And as Bertram's whetstone slides along the keen edges of his axe, the subject of his Gargul symbol tattoed hand comes to mind. Funny how it had reacted back there, once he'd had the mind to do what he did, and open the way to Gargul's realm. Right now, the eye seems inert, just a blemish on his palm. Had it influenced his decision? Helped him take that particular path? Well now, that was something to ponder, wasn't it...
Valdor blinks into Izen and is met by a strong wind that brings promises of rain. Both orcs set off east, remember themselves, stop, and give Valdor a bow before setting off again toward the interior of Izen. The Dragonstone's and Gunther's words are ringing in their ears, and their pockets are full of cash. As the wind whips at Valdor's cloak, the two creatures are soon lost over a short hill. Interesting perhaps, how things have turned out. If the Talons' gamble pays off, then a stable Izen might not be a bad idea. The interior of this realm had always been troublesome - a breeding ground of evil and malevolence, and anything that could break that precedence, well... Of course there was always the chance that a child of Izen's soil would never be able to relenquish its evil heritage, and if that was the case... time would tell. Time would tell.
The Platinum leader arrives back at the battlefield to find everyone ready. Weapons and armour are prepped, casters and clerics have their spells; mentally it might be another story, but the gathering suspense and expectation in the air tells him it's time to get organized and get going.
The silver dragon hovers nearby. The path is already imprinted in everyone's memory.
(Recap: ...traveling on the wing... through the trees at the edge of the clearing, and eastward, over a flat meadow with swaying grasses..... rocks appear like bones, a few at first.... the ground starts to rise, and it becomes grey limestone, moulded by rains and wind.....climbing to a flat plateau.... further east, a great waterfall that disappears underground.... while directly below - a dark hole, fifteen feet across... )
It is now late afternoon.
Milo Wednesday December 13th, 2006 6:39:37 PM
Milo grins widely, "I was planning on getting swallowed so I could carve my way back out again."
As they get ready to leave, Milo moves to the front, taking point.
K'Nara Thursday December 14th, 2006 12:54:35 AM
The leader of the Talons makes sure that the Culverwood contingent are assembled and ready. Then she goes to Valdor when he returns.
"Mordrid has good advice." she says. "Have you a plan on how to get Lathiese before he can do much damage..?"
Falin Thursday December 14th, 2006 2:29:04 AM
Coming back with the rest of the group Falin begins to ready himself for the evening.
"You know we could throw something down into the hole or try to plug the hole up. Although, I have to admit I do not know alot about dragons."
Lian Thursday December 14th, 2006 7:32:53 AM
The monk laughs at Milo's statement. "I assumes thats a 'no' then?" Then moves off to join the clergy. "BRother Bertram, please join us!"
Valdor Thursday December 14th, 2006 11:20:25 AM
When Valdor pops back to the group, he looks over to Gunther and gives him a "thumbs up" to let the warrior know all went well.
He replies to K'Nara,"He'll probably have magical traps, and maybe physical ones as well. Dispel magics, stoneskins for the front line fighters, water breathing, freedom of movement, Bear's Endurance, Bull's Strength, True Seeing, a wall of force to prevent him from dragging a party member under the water...those are what we need to have ready.
The important thing is to engage him from all sides quickly, so he can't focus on one front. If we all enter together, for instance, the acid breath will be coming, don't you doubt. I will be right in front of him, trying to draw his focus, so that you all can hit him from the sides and the back.
Hopefully, I can survive long enough to inflict heavy damage and give everyone a chance to kill it. If I'm lucky and protected with spells, maybe it will work. However, if I fall, let Mordrid take my place. We are getting old and our deaths wouldn't be as tragic to the Wold as yours would.
I haven't seen his lair, so I'm not sure of any kind of strategy other than that. Just remember, the one thing we MUST do is kill him. While we wory for our friends and parties, if we lose focus for a second, he will kill many of our number. Forgive me, I'm rambling."
In a whisper he says,"Listen K'Nara, I know some of your party may not be happy with me, andI'm sorry for that, but when we fight this dragon, if I shout out an assignment, it needs to happen. If you disagree, then you may take the lead in the fight. However, if you agree, it is essential that you tell your party to follow my orders whether they like me or not. Because someone may end up dead if they hesitate or ignore me. It needs to come from you, though. I've had enough hard feelings and arguing for a lifetime today. Think about it, and decide what you want to do. I'm okay with either way. Now, I have to go see my lady. I am in dire need of some affection. We move out when you are ready to."
He goes to find Cori, and gives her a bear hug and spends the rest of his time before they set out with her.
Brother Bertram Thursday December 14th, 2006 2:12:21 PM
With final look around at all of his companions, Bertram rises and takes up his helm and axe and prepares for the coming battle. Whether Gargul had influenced his choices or not, Bertram was not about to shirk the cost of the decision. He shrugged the problem aside for the work about to begin.
Ingrge / Dahlia Thursday December 14th, 2006 6:31:27 PM
Joining the Valdor and K'nara group the grizzled elf pipes in with his two cents worth. Why don't we make him come to us.
I think we block of the cave entrance with a well placed wall of stone spell a ways inside the entry and then seal the regular entry with a rock to mud and and mud to rock spell. That will mean that he will have to come out to us another way. and knowing his penchant for water it is probably from the lake beneath the waterfall. That way we can be ready where ever he comes out from and may be able to get the jump on him. I am pretty sure I can teleport myself and 4 others to near the entrance.
***
Having joined the group discussing preparations, Dahlia listens in and adds a little something as well. "I have my last 5 elemental stones which I can add to the mix should he come through the water as they just happen to be water elementals which should help t least slow him down some if not do him some damage.
Valdor how many can use our ring? With the images we are recieving from the silver, we should be able to teleport to the entrance easily.
Cori and Amarth Thursday December 14th, 2006 6:50:12 PM
Cori had just put away her spellbook when Valdor shows back up, with a nice little hug. She settles next to him for what seems like only minutes to her. "What we face may rip us apart in this world...but not the next." A finger traces his jaw as she reaches over and kisses him full on the lips. "Still lets try not to let that happen." That flash is back in her eyes as she settles her head on his chest, not at all ready to go. She just lets the rest talk amongst themselves and to Valdor as she enjoys herself.
Amarth cannot help but smile as he watches from his own perch. At least he is not the only one that is thinking a little about the now.
Spell List*to come*
Nick Thursday December 14th, 2006 6:55:59 PM
Arising from the stupor of the incense, Nick thanks the elf Lian for providing the cube (maximised our spells, correct?).
"All right," he says to those gathered,"lets get this over with. I'll send forth a protection spell when we're closer to the target."
Olana Thursday December 14th, 2006 6:58:49 PM
Olana gives K'Nara a salute, to let her leader know she's ready. Looking around at those assembled, she reckons they're in with a good chance of killing this thing. Yep, let's stay positive, she thinks.
Valdor Thursday December 14th, 2006 11:15:10 PM
Valdor, listening to Ingrge, suddenly asks Cori,"Not to ruin the moment, my dear, but have you read any more of that journal? Were there any maps you found that might show another way into or out of, his lair?"
When Dahlia asks about the ring, he says,"I think ten people is the maximum, but I'm not sure. I wouldn't want to try more than that. Also, Borden had my armor in a vision, you said? Maybe he like it so much that he got it copied. Trust me in this , if you never trust me again, he will never have MY armor."
He strokes Cori's hair and thinks about the scene in his mind and the upcoming fight.
K'Nara Thursday December 14th, 2006 11:42:38 PM
K'Nara nods at Valdor.
"We may not see eye-to-eye on things," she confirms, "And we must have words about your...assumption of my motives regarding Borden--but those are really trifles when we consider why we are all here. I will make sure that all my people obey your commands in battle, or they will have to answer to me."
Corialote and Amarth(illegal second) Friday December 15th, 2006 12:07:29 AM
Cori purses her lips and sighs. The mood is not broken by any accounts it just must adjust a little. "I have read a lot of the journal...though since we started this trip here...not so much." She searches her mind to see if there were any maps sketched inside of it and will pull the journal out of the pocket of her pants.
[Take her away Jan. :)]
DM Jan Friday December 15th, 2006 12:34:20 AM
As the group make final plans, Ingrge might well reconsider blocking that hole he saw in the vision. After all, it did look to be a BIG hole. However, he could be correct about another entrance. Limestone is washed away over the long term by traveling water, which could mean tunnels, and an outlet directly into the lake from the waterfall.
Cori's re-examination of the book reveals the following:
Maps suggest that the Storm Dragons traveled south from the Float, rode rapids at the southern end of it, and continued southward until reaching plains that, they were to discover later (and explained by a footnote), would lead to the eastern edge of the Scab. This suggest that this current location is a different one, for the group are along the eastern edge of the great lake. And after the fight with the black dragon, the creature appeared to take off with most of his treasure.
There is a detailed map of the dragon's previous lair - a big, dark, underground cave with deep pools of water. Nothing unexpected.
... he hid, and waited.....we were far too bold....
... it feels - like a weight, on your chest, pushing.... there is blackness, you cannot see, even I - could not see... and your mind does not want you to see. It does not want you to breathe...
((OOC - folks, I need to know your actions.))
Falin Friday December 15th, 2006 7:52:42 AM
Watching the other get ready Falin walks over to the group of elves to ensure they all have everything they need. He will spend some time with them asking them how they are doing and what they are feeling. Making sure they are all as ready as they can be for what is about to happen.
He will finish getting the rest of his things together and wait to see what K'Nara and Valdor were going to have them do for the night.
Ve Mundr Friday December 15th, 2006 8:51:15 AM
Ve stands about with the others though he is a bit confused. "Not to dampen everyones enthutiasm for the dragon hunt, but should we not see to Falin first and why by Domi would we want to do this as night falls?" Ve scans the group and notices the elves seem to be gearing up to head out and his head falls and shakes slightly. Rising back up he holds a hand out in thier direction, "No. Definately not. The Culverwood elves do not go on this."
Valdor Friday December 15th, 2006 10:20:31 AM
Valdor nods to K'Nara and replies,"None of us are perfect. Mistakes and misunderstandings are part of life, unfortunately. But we will talk later if you wish."
He tells Ve,"I think this fight can be over and done long before nightfall. As a matter of fact, I would much prefer to fight him while the sun is shining. He will possibly be resting now and not quite as ready as he will when the sun goes down."
Ingrge Friday December 15th, 2006 5:38:47 PM
Valdor There are only fourteen of us if only we go. With your ring and my spell we can take 15 total and we can be there now and do a bit of checking up before we rush into things.
Mordrid Friday December 15th, 2006 6:51:24 PM
When Ve says "no" to the elves joining, Mordrid nods in agreement, "someone needs to stay behind, in case something goes terribly wrong." Of course the truth of the matter is he just doesn't want any more of the elves to die. They have learned a great deal about dragons in the past week, knowledge that would go a long way toward dealing with Parnoth; as well as a strange tie to the new orc nation.
"I think the idea of luring the dragon out is worth some more thought Ingrge. As a hunter, that would be my first instinct. I've seen five dogs go in after a bull racoon, and I counted five flee in the same order; each with a scar to remember the day. I'd much prefer to fight in the open. If only we could get at the treasure, and bring some out."
"Aerelia, what form of creatures did you summon to clean the battlefield?"
[spell lvl 1: detect snares and pits / resist energy acid / resist energy acid / resist energy acid. spell lvl 2: cat's grace / bears endurance / protection from acid / protection from fire. spell lvl 3: dark vision 60', water walk, water walk, greater magic fang +5. spell lvl 4: freedom of movement, freedom of movement, freedom of movement.]
Gunther Friday December 15th, 2006 11:07:37 PM
Gunther grins as Valdor reappears and gives his thumbs up. Maybe he wasn't so bad after all. He gathers all his equipment and checks and double checks to make sure everything is ok. Then he catches up with Thaeri and explains that he will be going with the others to hunt another big beast. Then he goes to stand by Ve. "I tought ve vere going to vork vith Falin first. I guess dat changed, eh?"
OOC: Sorry about the missed posts, I'm sick and I've had a lot of RL stuff to deal with.
K'Nara Friday December 15th, 2006 11:24:45 PM
"It most certainly did NOT change!" K'Nara says emphatically in reply to Gunther's question. "We couldn't possibly go face Lathiese unless Falin is cured of his lycanthropy--we'd have to fight the dragon AND a werewolf at the same time!" She turns to Valdor with her concern clearly on her face.
"Falin will be healed up before we go get Lathiese...right...?"
Valdor Friday December 15th, 2006 11:40:00 PM
Valdor nods to K'Nara, but asks,"Won't he only change during a full moon? Or am I understanding werewolves right? I'm fine with waiting, but if there's no danger to him changing, it would be better to fight the dragon now. If there is a danger, then we need to address that first for sure. Of course, this is a bit dangerous, but some could scout the area while the clerics work on Falin tonight, maybe find an alternate entry, then at first light we could go in. Falin's health is our first concern, the dragon second. Besides, I could probably use the rest myself...it might be the last chance to enjoy the wind and sunshine."
Ve Mundr Saturday December 16th, 2006 12:29:33 AM
Ve almost shrugs at Gunthers statement and then offers, "I was under that impression. We can only attempt to cure falin on the nights of a full moon. We know last night was one, i was assuming that tinight there would be another." Looking to the man he knows to likely hold the most knowledge on the phases on the moon, Ve turns his next question to Mordrid. "Was last night the last of the phases of the full moon or should another be tonight? I am prepared and Falin is as well." He pauses for the answer.
Brother Bertram Saturday December 16th, 2006 5:58:28 AM
Bertram waits patiently, just wishing he could do more for Falin, but leaving it to more experienced than he.
Corialote and Amarth Saturday December 16th, 2006 4:09:18 PM
Cori holds the book out and shows the map to Valdor, while shaking her head. "The dragon is in a new home...this map is for his old one." A smile plays across her lips though as she cannot help but chuckle. "Still they tend to be creatures of habit...comes from thinking one is superior to all others." There is a double meaning there that some might get and some might not.
With the idea of scouting she nods her head again at a good plan. "We have several who can sneak well enough and a few more with some magical skill...I would think that scouting would not be too far gone." That same foolish twinkle returns to her eyes as she grins. "As for stealing treasure...you give me a definite picture of the room and you can consider some treasure stolen." It is a challenge that she would not mind wraping her mind around....not that something else would not come first, she sighs.
"So lets take care of Falin first as we must have everyone at peak performance...do a little recon and then hit the dragon fresh in the morning." For some reason it sounds too neat and tidy to her...that is to actually work that way, but.... She simply shrugs her shoulders and wonders if she will really get to have a look at a dragon's home.
Olana Sunday December 17th, 2006 11:31:19 PM
While plans are being discussed, Olana wanders over to Falin. "You doing okay?" she asks him. Her eyes are looking at him curiously. After all it's not every day that you meet a - Aware she's staring, she stops and gestures toward the others. "They'll fix things," she says with a reassuring smile.
Nick Sunday December 17th, 2006 11:40:31 PM
Nick is in agreement about Falin, however, something is bothering him.
"Valdor, I'm just guessing, but if our friend the black dragon has just been in a fight with another one of his kind, wouldn't he have suffered some wounds? The longer we leave this..."
DM Jan Sunday December 17th, 2006 11:45:31 PM
Further plans are discussed, amongst them - possible scouting and Falin's condition. The late afternoon light shifts toward the warmer edge of the spectrum and the sunlight on the lake takes on a pinkish tinge. In this light, the Wold's moons, already rising, look like ghosts.
Falin suddenly feels as though someone has punched him sharply in the gut.
Everyone else hears his spine crack like a broken tree limb.
Posting Reports for Monday December 18th, 2006 5:18:32 AM
Game # 1 The Platinum Dragons For the week of Dec 11,2006
Name-----MTWTF DM Jan---XXXXX Valdore--X2X22 Mordrid--XXXOX Fr.Nick--OXXXOS Dalhia---XXXXO VE Mont--XOXO2 Corealot-XOXX2S
Posting Reports for Game # 3 The Emeral Talons For the week od Dec 11,2006
Falin d20+7=25 Monday December 18th, 2006 7:42:47 AM
"Olana," Falin begins, "I am doing alright considering the circumstances, but I am confident that we will get through this. thanks for your supportive words."
Falin feels the pangs of hunger begin to creep into his consciousness. He falls to the ground with a pain that wracks his body in convulsions. He fights with every being of his soul... (Control Shape skill check to resist change DC 25. Rolled a 25.)
This time he feels different. He feels more in control of what is happening to him. After a few moments the pain subsides and he is able to catch his breath. He rolls over onto his back and sits up. Letting the blood slowly flow back into his extremities before he stands. After he gets up he forces a smile. "Well, that was a little better than last time." He wipes the sweat from his brow and adds, "I think we should go after the dragon sooner than later. If it comes to it and you are afraid of what I could do to the party then leave me with the elves."
Valdor Monday December 18th, 2006 10:23:53 AM
After spending some relaxing time with Cori, Nick expresses his concern and Valdor replies,"Yes Nick, you are right. Hoever, Falin's condition must be addressed first. We'll have to see how he feels when this is done...if we are successful. Then, if we must go at night, then we will. I, also, think the longer we wait, the more chance for him to be fully recovered, so we need to go get him as soon as possible. You rest up, we'll ned your strength and Alemi's power very soon, my friend."
He moves over to Gunther and says,"If he begins to change, we must detain him and keep him from infecting anyone else. You may be strong enough, I don't know, but know that I am here to help you without injuring him, if you need me. I suggest you cover your arms and hands."
He stretches out his muscles, loosening himself up for what he figures will be an extreme exertion of strength. He covers his arms with some gauntlets and his hands with gloves, feeling guilty for doing it, but wanting no part of being a werewolf himself.
Ve Mundr d20+47=49 d20+52=71 Monday December 18th, 2006 12:18:16 PM
Convinced the plan has solidified to his first impressions, Ve begins his preparations. Shortly, he has a marked off area with candles and and a place for both himself and Falin. He calls Gunther to escort Falin into the circle and then to retreat out of it. His personal book of Domi in one hand and a small vial of myrh in the other, Ve begins. "Please kneel."
Ve traces a triangle of Domi onto his forehead, "Domi Enhance your will." another triangle, inverted and connecting to the first, "Domi be with us all." Ve then encircles the triangles. "Domi Grace you as a hero."
Ve puts the small vial away and looks deep into Falin's eyes and now kneels in front of him. Whispering to the elf, "And now you have the power to free yourself of this curse." With those final words Ve makes holds his hand up and before Falin, eyes still locking with the Emerald Talon.
Ve cast the following: Owl's Wisdom, Prayer, Greater Heroism and finally Break Enchantment. Falin has a +7 save as a result
Knowing instantly if the the breaking fails Ve is prepared to Quicken a Grasping Hand to hold Falin if he changes. [hand attack Hit AC 49 grapple check 71]
K'Nara Monday December 18th, 2006 1:05:03 PM
The leader of the Talons was alarmed at first at the sounds and sight of Falin beginning his transformation--but her heart warmed when he was apparently able to fight the change.
"You can do it, Falin," she told the elf, squeezing him in a quick but powerful hug, "I believe in you." Then K'Nara stood ready to aid Gunther if he needed the extra help.
Falin with second post d20+14=33 Monday December 18th, 2006 2:30:32 PM
Falin takes K'Nara's encouragement as he moves into the marked off area prepared by Ve. He looks at Ve before the begining of the ceremony and tells him, "Thanks for helping me. I hope that someday I can return the favor."
As Ve begins his incantations Falin feel more focused and alert at his surroundings. The with a flash Ve seems to try to draw the beast out of Falin. Falin has a pained looks flow across his as there is a fight between his new personality and the old. With a sigh Falin's old self wins and the beast is expelled from Falin's body.
Brother Bertram Monday December 18th, 2006 7:59:38 PM
Bertram watches intently, worried for his comrade as well as seeine Ve perform a ritual he had never before been privy to.
Mordrid Monday December 18th, 2006 7:59:45 PM
Falin's fit occurrs before Mordrid has a chance to answer Ve's question, however the ranger takes note of he moon's current state to make note of when Falin's fits might occur (for example if it is no longer a full moon).
Gunther Monday December 18th, 2006 11:23:55 PM
Gunther nods at Valdor. Gently grasping Falin's shoulders, Gunther tries to guide him toward the circle. "Falin, ve need to go dis vay. C'mon, I know you can do dis. Ve need you to be strong...ve all do. C'mon...a little farther..." Gunther coaches Falin along, hoping that he won't have to man handle him.
Corialote and Amarth Monday December 18th, 2006 11:29:34 PM
Cori moves off to the side of the camp, though well in view off all the happenings. But before she moves off she makes a simple comment. "If it is called for I will raise a dome of ice around all those helping Falin. That will contain him for awhile and allow you to continue your help...for if he was to get loose he would be lost to the night fast." There is no sign of aggression in her voice but a tinge of concern for all involveed...especially a cousin, though her own skin is black.
She lets her mind wander the deep corridors of her schooling as she prepares for what is to come. Will they be ready for this fight as they belive they will be? It is true that the dragon will have time to heal but that will also use up some of it's powers, thus even physically in perfect condition it will not be so mentally.
Milo Tuesday December 19th, 2006 1:19:28 AM
Milo watches the ritual from a distance, remaining silent all the while.
OOC: Sorry for my absence. A big wind storm knocked us out of electricity until this evening.
Nick Tuesday December 19th, 2006 1:37:11 AM
Nick watches the proceedings surrounding Falin and Ve Mundr intently. he certainly could understand why some of the others were making attempts to protect any exposed flesh, which in turn made him a little apprehensive about Ve. For if Falin lost his grip on the thing that raged inside, then the protector was only a quick lunge away.
Olana Tuesday December 19th, 2006 1:40:38 AM
Olana is figuring to herself that Falin is bearing up pretty well, when he starts to change, and she takes about four involuntary steps back, torn between wanting to help and not wanting toget her head bitten off.
During the ceremony, she's muttering her own prayers. Get it out of him.... get it out...
DM Jan Tuesday December 19th, 2006 2:30:50 AM
((OOC - no worries, folks - hope folk are feeling better and that the power is back on :) ))
The sky is darkening by the time the exorcism of Koshe Marr's legacy given to Falin is completed, and Mordrid can see both of the Wold's moons - perfect circles - rising into the night, which suggests that full moons trigger the effect.
Would there be any after effects of the lycanthrope, now it has been drawn out? Anything belonging to the dark realm of Koshe Marr has a tendency to carve itself into the psyche, and the footsteps of strangeness leave a deep tread. With any profound experience, there are usually subtle, physical signs that attest to the experience, and those who now stand before him already display their own signs - anything from the Gargul sign etched on Bertram's palm, to the glint of steel in Valdor's eye, or the glow on the faces of Milo and Gunther as they look upon their loved ones. Mentally, one suspects there will be a lot of soul searching, and after their pit experience, any one of the Platinums will be able to sympathize with that.
Night time, no longer hindered by dragons and fire and smoke and death, paints a picture of serenity. This part of the Wold (with the obvious exception of the immediate area) seems particularly beautiful - unspoiled, gentle, and out on the lake, shoals of photo-luminescent fish can be seen, glowing beneath the surface as they sweep to and fro. To the east, far in the distance, the high peaks of mountains catch the moonlight.
As for the dragon, it might be worth considering, that if the fight was taken underground, then it wouldn't really matter as to day or night. It was always night down below. A thorough scout of the area would also take weeks.
Teleportation becomes a viable option, if the elves are left behind.
Falin Tuesday December 19th, 2006 3:36:42 AM
Falin colapses to the ground as his body readjusts itself to being just an elf again. As he pushes himself up to stand he is shaking a little. He looks to Ve and mouths a 'thank you'. Although, no sound escapes from his lips. His hair is damp with sweat and he looks a little pale. He walks down to the edge of the water for a moment to compose himself. On his way he gives a reasuring shoulder grasp to those he passes by.
Hopefully none of them would ever have to experience anything like this Falin thinks to himself.
The water feels cool against his skin. His skin was so hot from the ordeal. He splashes his face a few times and takes a few long drinks from the water.
He collects his things and then walks over to K'Nara. "You know I hope this is over with now, but a part of me feels sad over the whole thing. I think deep down I really enjoyed having that power and the abilities I did have." He pauses for a moment and rubs his forhead. "It almost makes me wonder what I would do if I were placed in the situation again. I am scared about what may lie in wait within my heart."
K'Nara notices that Falin's eyes have taken on a shade of yellow. Much like the yellow of the leaves when winter approaches. Just before they become dry and brittle.
Valdor Tuesday December 19th, 2006 10:35:23 AM
Hearing Falin, Valdor says,"I know what you mean, Falin. When in Koshe Marr, I experienced something different, but given powers I hadn't had before. It is nothing more than a deception,however. You have true power in your kinship with your group. Plus, the way of the werewolf is a grisly...and short, life.
You did well, my friend. Get your rest, we will leave when you feel ready. But, only when you are truly ready."
He approaches Ve and says,"You make Domi proud. That took a lot of courage and I admire you for it." Not getting mushy, he pats the cleric on the shoulder and walks off.
Lian Tuesday December 19th, 2006 3:52:35 PM
(Sorry folks, I was in Chris' boat as well, no power since the 15th. Back up for now.)
Lian smiles and looks at Falin. "I knew you could do it."
Brother Bertram Tuesday December 19th, 2006 4:40:05 PM
Bertram relaxes at the completion of the ritual, glad to see his comrade restored to himself. He quickly moved aside and gave Domi thanks for looking over them.
Ve Mundr Tuesday December 19th, 2006 6:54:05 PM
Ve nods to Falin and gives the elf a warm smile and stands. "You did well." he begins moving about the circle and extinguishing the candles when he catches Nick's eye. "Father Nicholas," he begins with a smile, "Oh now come my friend I do not deserve such looks of concern. I was far more protected and prepared than it might have seemed to the naked eye."
Valdor catches him just as the last candle is put away. He accepts the praise and credit for what it is and says nothing to belittle the offer. Ve nods, "Thank you. To the dragon I could attempt a scrying. We know much about him, perhaps enough. If you will give me say an hour I shall be ready."
With that Ve moves off a bit to say a few additional prayers of thanks to Domi that his strength prevailed and to put down the voice again rising in his mind calling him to power and the subjugation of the Wold.
K'Nara Tuesday December 19th, 2006 7:52:33 PM
K'Nara has no reservations about hugging the cured Falin.
"My mother--who is a rather wise woman--often would say 'always share what's in your heart with your friends...if it's good, it blesses all who hear it. If it's bad, then it's a burden better borne by all than by one.' " the blade singer says, then grins. "Now...let's all get some rest and make sure we are prepared to meet Lathiese in the morning."
Corialote and Amarth Tuesday December 19th, 2006 10:51:34 PM
Cori has moved off to the side near the ocean and is now seated in front of a mirror that she has produced from her pants' pocket. It is proped up against a pile of sand that she has set up.
She settles in comfortable as her voice starts the chant that draws her power. Her voice is spoken in the tongue of dragons as she reaches out a finger to touch the mirror lightly with her finger. "Show me our enemy, Lathiese." The last is said with the final intonation of her words of power.
[Greater Scrying - 24 hours - Will DC 32]
Aeralia Tuesday December 19th, 2006 11:03:17 PM
(OOC: Sorry here to for my absense as well. Had work seminars last week, and just haven't had the time since then)
When Mordid asks about her summons, the young sorceress shrugs lightly, not really sure how to explain. "Nothing more then motes of magic to enact force. No shape, no creature, just force. Same realm of magic that most offensive spells and elemental forces normally come from, just less chaotic; more structured."
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Once the moons begin to rise, and Falin begins to experience his events, Aeralia keeps to herself, observing quietly. She mumbles a few things here and there to darker corners, where no one's at, but otherwise doesn't say anything else.
She gives the afflicted elf a silent yet reassuring smile once she catches his eye after his ordeal.
Olana Wednesday December 20th, 2006 1:10:19 AM
Olana smiles and gives Falin a hug. "You had us all worried there for a moment, you crazy elf," she says.
As they settle down for the evening, she sits alongside Milo. "So, what's the plan, do you think - apart from you jumping down the dragons throat and cutting your way out?"
Nick Wednesday December 20th, 2006 1:30:06 AM
Nick just smiles in reaction to Ve's comment. He knows his friend well enough to fully believe that he was more than ready if things had turned bad. Still...
"I must be turning into the party worrywart in my old age," he replies with a wry grin, and runs a hand over his bald head.
And that brought forth another recollection. Just how dog tired he was. This was getting ridiculous, but after that last fight and the prayers that followed it, Nick was tired, and was finding himself increasingly grateful that the party had decided to rest this night.
Milo Wednesday December 20th, 2006 1:41:33 AM
Milo yawns, leaning into Olana, "Then I steal his treasure." The halfling smiles wistfully.
DM Jan d20+25=43 Wednesday December 20th, 2006 1:52:14 AM
The night passes quietly apart from 2 separate incidents -
1) Cori concentrates on the mirror before her, and for a moment, the mirror loses its reflection and becomes completely black, as though whatever she is looking at, is surrounding by the complete absence of light. A second later, and the mirror changes abruptly, she she sees her own reflection once more. (Will Save 43)
2) At some point during the night, both Lian and Falin are approached by the elven party, where there appears to be some kind of problem. And where men might have raised voices, or even the occasional fist, here the nuances are more subtle - one or two stony glares being the worst of it. Nevertheless -
"The banisher of lycanthrope says we cannot go to fight this dragon?" asks Al'thra. "Is he asking us to run away?"
Dawn breaks (crunch), accompanied by damp, dewy ground and a flurry of bird song.
Falin d20=15 Wednesday December 20th, 2006 4:47:44 AM
Falin pulls all of the elves together and looks at them. We started with so many. Now there are so few faces... Falin thinks to himself.
In a stern voice Falin tells them, "It was discussed and the Talons and the Plats feel it is in the best interest of the Culverwood if you do not accompany us on this leg of the mission." His countenace then changes to one of compassion and caring.
"We have lost too many of who we set out with. I wish you all to return to the Culverwood. There you will be able to use the experience you have gained here at this battle to further train the younger elves there to fight. Some day we will know a free Culverwood and it will be becasue of the works and deed of all of you. I don't want to see the sacrifice that the others have made go to waste. You are not running away."
He looks directly at Al'thra. "You are not running away. You are ensuring the freedom of our people. And do not forget your experiences here. Especially the bravery and sacrifice that the other races have made."
He pauses for a moment and lets his words sink in. "I am asking you that are left to return to the Culverwood. This is an important task. Return and begin to make arrangements to make a glorious army of the Culverwood. Again, take what you have learned and apply it to the training that your new recruits will need."
OOC: Diplomacy roll 15
Valdor Wednesday December 20th, 2006 10:24:00 AM
Valdor finds Dahlia and asks,"Can you and maybe one or two others scout the area we saw in the vision? Especially the waterfall area? Take my ring to teleport there and be prepared to teleport away. We don't want a fight without all of us there."
Lian Wednesday December 20th, 2006 12:48:33 PM
Lian looks at the elven party, listening and watching. When any fists are raised, his hands glow dimly, not to intimidate but to assure those who throw down will be put down.
Looking at Falin and then the elves, the monk shakes his head. "Here is my opinion. While a free Culverwood is in the brink, I believe those who wish to stay, should stay. But those who wish to guide the next generation should leave and begin that army and tell of the others sacrifices."
Zero Level: Detect Magicx2, Guidance, Mending, Purify Food and Drink First Level: Bless, Cure Light Wounds(max), Divine Favor, Endure Elements, Hide from Undead, Remove Fear Second Level: Bear's Endurance, Cure Moderate Wounds(max), Resist Energy, Silence Domain Spells : Enlarge Person and Bull's Strength
Stunning Fist 13/day: Unused Wholeness of Body (18 points) : Unused Domain - Protection [1/day, standard action, resistance equal to cleric level, 1 hour] : Unused Domain - Strength [1/day, free action, strength enhancement equal to cleric level, 1 round] : Unused Brahmah's Tattoo of Goodberry (3/day, caster level 1, 1 day) : Unused Brahmah's Tattoo of Bull's Strength (2/day, caster level 3, 3 min) : Unused
Dahlia Wednesday December 20th, 2006 5:45:08 PM
Looking up at Valdor as he makes his request, the little halfling nods.
How about I take the Talon Milo along. He looks like he can handle himself and might be able to stay out of sight.
When done talking with Valdor, Dahlia approaches Milo and quietly pulls him aside. batting he long eyelashes so that he purple eyes really stand out she asks him a quick question.
"So, you want to have a little fun?"
She then will proceed to explain that Valdor would like a quck reconoiter done of the area that we are about to invade.
Brother Bertram Wednesday December 20th, 2006 7:18:49 PM
Bertram sorts his spells in his mind and what magic he can muster if the need arises in fighting this renengade dragon.
Milo Wednesday December 20th, 2006 7:32:24 PM
Like a large cat, Milo spends his morning burrowed up against Olana. He even purrs playfully when roused. However, once he does finally arise, the halfling spends some time stretching and limbering up for whatever the day might bring.
Corialote and Amarth Wednesday December 20th, 2006 10:32:34 PM
Cori growls as the mirror starts to show something and then turns back to her own reflection. She packs away the mirror and moves off, but not before scuffing her boot into the pile of sand that she had set up. "Blasted dragons anyways." Her eyes flash with unconcealed anger as she moves back into camp. She wonders about getting a little rest but is not sure what she wants to do...so she seeks out Valdor for a little distraction. Once she finds him she tries to bring back the smile and all but still anger burns in her eyes. "What you up to?"
Amarth has wisely moved off to find a place to get a little rest. When his Mistress gets into one of these moods she can sometimes be a hard one to handle.
Nick Thursday December 21st, 2006 12:13:35 AM
Nick sleeps like a baby, and awakes for his morning prayers refreshed and feeling more like his old self.
"Dahlia, whatever you're about to do, please be careful?"
Olana Thursday December 21st, 2006 12:21:50 AM
While Milo's out limbering and scouting, Olana puts in some archery practice. In her mind, something is brewing, and on more than one occasion, she glances in Mordrid's direction. Up to her experience in Koshe Marr, she'd always been wary, or maybe even a little scared of him. A lot of her perceptions had changed though, recently, and she found herself wondering about something. Maybe when they were done killing this dragon, she'd ask him something. The worst he could do was say 'No,' right?
DM Jan Thursday December 21st, 2006 1:14:26 AM
((OOC - folks, I'm making one or two clumsy assumptions here, but I need to keep things moving. I also realise some of you aren't feeling too good, and/or have the Holiday to get organised, or have power outages. No worries. I'm not going to drop the dragon fight on you over the holiday week, but we could do with heading in that direction so we're ready for it at the start the New Year.
Regular posting ends this Friday, and then we resume on Jan 2nd. I'll play things by ear during the break. If you want to post, please do so.
Also, we'll be having our usual holiday thing in the Giggling Ghost, beginning the eve of the 24th, where you can roll a dice once a day and try for the usual weird and wacky selection of presents from the tree. It's wild, total anarchy, and fun, so join us if you can.))
------------------
While the others are getting through breakfast or morning practice, Dahlia, Milo (and anyone else who wanted in on this trip) borrow Valdor's teleport ring and get a fix on the area near the waterfall.
They arrive on a ledge of smooth, light grey stone and are immediately covered in spray. The falls behind them weave their way down from the mountains, and at this point drop into what looks like a fairly narrow, dark hole. The water's passage obviously shifts underground at this point. There doesn't appear to be a viable entry point underground, unless of course you wanted to get pulverized.
Looking out from the ledge, they can see the lake in the distance below, and a treeline that obscures the camp/battlefield. the water does not re-emerge further down the hill, so it looks as though it flows straight into the lake from underground.
Climbing downward over scrub and limestone, the terrain descends as a series of short plateaus. They look almost like a huge giants set of stairs. These plateaus are pockmarked with holes, where the stone is worn away by the weather. Most of the holes are quite shallow, some are dry, some contain water.
However, one of them is of considerable size, an impressive 25 feet across. The land directly below it and leading down toward the trees and the lake is dry but looks like a stream bed, suggesting that on some occasions perhaps, this hole acts like a blow hole during storms and flooding, allowing water up from underground, and down the hill in a torrent. Going off the growing vegetation, it appears that the immediate area has been dry for quite a while.
The 25 ft hole appears to lead directly down, into rock. A mix of shadow and morning light tells those looking down that it's climbable, with care, and seems to level off about 40 ft down. Anything deeper than that is obscured in darkness. There's a scent coming out of that hole, too, a faint mixture of acidity and something rotting.
The scouting party reports back to camp and tells all.
Meanwhile, the elves appear to be reconciled to staying behind and not joining in the dragon fight. Something has struck a chord, a realization has set in, and Al'thra tells both Lian and Falin in a low voice - "Well, we certainly understand the need for an army."
K'Nara Thursday December 21st, 2006 3:53:46 AM
After her usual pre-dawn session of blade singer training, K'Nara then went to Olana and Mordrid with a question:
"Is there any way to get some sticky sap from the plant life around here? I have an idea that may help out with Lathiese, but I need to coat some scraps of cloth with something that will make them stick fast...to dragon hide..."
Lian Thursday December 21st, 2006 8:04:02 AM
The monk claps Al'thra on the shoulder. "Then be safe. Go now before things heat up."
Ve Mundr Thursday December 21st, 2006 11:07:41 AM
Ve takes a head count of all who are going in the morning and then sits down to pray. The Magic Carpet he kneels upon sits just off the ground and faces into the rising sun. Upon completion Ve goes through a short exercise of his own involving several castings. The air about the Hierophant hums to life and becomes almost plyable as he calls upon the touch of Domi in Strength and in protection. Within an hour he is done and then meets at the breakfast area. Ve has some bread, cheese, wine and fruit in his haversack that he eats while discussions begin.
Spells in effect: Greater Magic Weapon Magic Vestment Armor Magic Vestment Shield Endure Elements
Mordrid Thursday December 21st, 2006 11:33:29 AM
Mordrid looks toward Olana, as if to say 'hmmm'.
"I think anything dealing with plant life is going to take some time. They either have to drip out or be boiled."
The ranger looks out at the lake and rembers the fish. A fast easy catch, and the gall bladders should do nicely; full of nice sticky icky.
K'nara hears the ranger say, "fish." He rises and grabs a burlap sack; whistling at Gunther's Cat, he motions to join. Spinning around, "Olano, if you think of something better and faster, stop me, please."
Laughing as he heads to the beach,K'nara over hears the ranger saying, "This idea stinks... or at least its going to stink."
The ranger goes about his task as quickly as possible. Once he captures a few fish, he guts them with his hunting knife and removes their gall bladders. Holding the purple sacs up by the intestinal junction, he watches it jiggle like jelly. "That should do."
He returns to K'nara with his find. "These things are full of goo. Should work. Care to share your plan with me?"
The air is rank.
K'Nara Thursday December 21st, 2006 1:48:23 PM
The red-headed blade singer grins at Mordrid.
"Clever." she nods at the gluey stuff yielded by the gall bladders. "Well, THIS is what I have in mind: I have a tunic that I can into about half-a-dozen strips..." She shows the ranger by actually doing so in front of him, and holds up one of the scraps of cloth, now about six inches by twelve inches.
"What I'm thinking of is this: I want to apply gluey stuff to one side of each scrap of cloth, then fold the cloth on itself so that the stickiness stays protected. These cloths would have a Silence spell cast on them--and then some brave soul can possibly unfold the cloth and slap the sticky side onto Lathiese's snout...Silencing the dragon without having to worry about his natural resistence to having the spell cast directly on him." Here K'Nara shrugs fatalistically.
"Of course, the tough part would be having someone get close enough to the dragon to slap the cloth in place without becoming dragon chow...but that's a minor detail..."
Valdor Thursday December 21st, 2006 2:44:37 PM
Valdor spends the evening and night curled up against Cori. He wakes early and goes out into the trees that are left to warm up his muscles. He leaves his armor off and just practices in his pants. He decides to take a dip and watches Mordrid with curiosity.
When K'Nara states her plan, Valdor says,"Well, I'm not sure about the brave part, but crazy would be more like it. I think our blinking halfing would be good for the part. I would do it, but I can't take even one attack off from a dragon. Nor can any of the warriors. We must inflict all the direct heavy damage we can and quickly. One missed attack againsta dragon could mean death to someone. It is a great idea, though."
He goes to Cori, Ingrge, Nick, and Ve before they prepare their spells and says,"We will need water breathing, stoneskins, bears endurance, bulls strength, freedom of movement and acid resistance mostly, I'm guessing. Dispel magics, find traps, fly, and levitate are others that could come in handy. Cori, that teleportation circle was great and could be used when we are finished."
Mordrid Thursday December 21st, 2006 3:38:38 PM
Mordrid responds to K'nara, "Ohhh, well, that's what arrows are for. Why don't you just cast silence on one of my arrows? I'll make sure to put it wherever you want it."
Dahlia / Ingrge Thursday December 21st, 2006 6:07:43 PM
Dahlia almost grins as she hears Valdor call her their blinking halfling and then pipes in.
"Actually I can do one better. I will use my cape and dimension door right onto his back and slap a few of them on him as I run down his back. That way he won't be able to reach them as easily." Mordrid can then use his silence arrows and between the two of them we shold be good to go. I also can use my wand to make us all invisible, even after attacking."
*****
Ingrge looks up at Valdor as he speaks with his spell suggestions and then responds. "Ok, so which spells do people need and can use. I was thinking haste spells cast on as many of the fighters would be helpful as well. I will also create a telepathic bond between myself, K'nara, Bertram, Olana, Milo, and you Valdor and since you have contact with the other Platinums we will for the most part be in communication. With a second one I could include the rest as well and then we could all communicate, at least for a while. I can assist with the stoneskins as I have 5 such spells memorized currently, though they may not be quite as strong as you are used to. Also in addition I will be using a spectral hand to be casting spell upon some of you during the battle. I will communicte with you just before I cast it so you will be ready.
spells
0 - resistance **, ray for frost*** 1st - magic missile****, true strike, ray of enfeeblement** 2nd - scorching ray ***, detect thoughts, ghoul touch***, spectral hand 3rd - Vampiric touch**, clairaudience, water breathing***, haste. 4th - stone skin*****, scrying, bestow curse 5th - rary's telepathic bond**, Cone of cold**, wall of force, teleport 6th - contingency (in place), greater dispel magic**, true seeing**, Globe of invulnerability 7th - Greater teleport, Bigby's grasping hand, Mordenkainen's sword
Milo Thursday December 21st, 2006 6:47:31 PM
Content to let the more experienced halfling rogue take the foolish risks, Milo sits back quietly, and listens to the plans unfold.
Falin Thursday December 21st, 2006 10:17:46 PM
As the elves make up their mind on what to do Falin looks at them with pride. He felt like a father watching his children leave the house for the first time.
Falin removes his bow from his back and begins to check it for any possible damage. He checks the string and all of the bindings, applying oil where needed. He then takes out his arrows and checks to see that they are all in good shape. He does the same with the rest of his equipment as well. Preparing for what was to come.
K'Nara Friday December 22nd, 2006 1:52:32 AM
K'Nara nods at Mordrid's assertion about being able to place his arrows just so on a dragon.
"You've the experience, I'm sure..." the blade singer concedes, "...and shooting such arrows would be safest--but arrows tend to bounce off dragonhide. However...there's no law that says we can't do both the sticky cloths AND the arrows..."
Falin with second post Friday December 22nd, 2006 8:08:08 AM
Hearing the conversation Falin chimes in, "You could sticky the ends of the arrows. It may be a bit harder to gauge the accuracy, but the arrows would stick to the dragon and it would be safer than getting close to the dragon."
Valdor Friday December 22nd, 2006 11:53:02 AM
Valdor jumps when Dahlia appears out of nowhere and says,"One of these days you're going to give me a heart attack you nut! And the cape was what I was referring to."
He responds to Ingrge with,"Good choices as well. I leave it to you to decide who gets what spells. As for me, I would like stone skin, water breathing, freedom of movement, acid resistance and bears endurance. I have the rest covered."
Ve Mundr Friday December 22nd, 2006 2:04:12 PM
"I remind everyone, especially my fellow spellcasters, that the dragon mya have allies and will likely attempt to disrupt our own spells. To that thought, I think the most powerful of us should cast the Waterbreathing spells. I will carry a quick version of the spell in case the unthinkable occurs. Before casting any personal physical enhancement spells, make sure the target does not already possess a magical item that performs the same task. As a point, any such spell is pointless to place on me."
Olana Friday December 22nd, 2006 2:50:55 PM
Noting that the 'sticky situation' appears to have been covered, Olana asks - "Are we going to be climbing down that hole? How much rope do we need? I have 2 50ft lengths."
If she can find some more around the camp, she'll appropriate it. If she can find torches, she'll grab those, too. Seeing in dim light was all very well, but complete darkness was another matter.
Nick Friday December 22nd, 2006 2:58:20 PM
"I'll hit those who need it with Holy Aura, too," Nick says, adding to the conversation on protection. " And it sounds like water breathing is definitely a must."
DM Jan Friday December 22nd, 2006 3:05:01 PM
The group gear up and get ready for what could be a very nasty encounter. The silver dragon has landed and is perched on a nearby rock, wings folded in.
The elves make ready to leave. There are hugs and looks of determination. The ships are setting sail for the Big Float accross the water. Soon, this place of recent devastation will be reclaimed by the nature surrounding it.
Past the trees, to the east, the foothills and the dragon's lair awaits.
Corialote and Amarth Friday December 22nd, 2006 4:34:36 PM
Cori is up just as soon as Valdor is moving as well. She had not meant to spend so much time resting but it was comfortable and maybe the last chance she had for peace for awhile. She kisses Valdor before he leaves and then moves off to study her own spells.
When Valdor shows up with suggestions she smiles and shakes her head. "I must be able to read your mind." She had been preparing those same spell in the time he was exercising. Laying a hand upon his cheek she cannot help but smile. "Let's make sure they all make it through this." Before he can reply she steals another quick kiss and then moves to his side.
Amarth comes winging in from the few undamaged trees to light on his Mistress's shoulder. He seems well rested if not a little worried. Still he does not seem to be willing to leave his Mistress's side unless for good reason.
Spells*coming*
Lian Friday December 22nd, 2006 4:55:47 PM
The monk stands waiting with nothing much on his mind.
Zero Level: Detect Magicx2, Guidance, Mending, Purify Food and Drink First Level: Bless, Cure Light Wounds(max), Divine Favor, Endure Elements, Hide from Undead, Remove Fear Second Level: Bear's Endurance, Cure Moderate Wounds(max), Resist Energy, Silence Domain Spells : Enlarge Person and Bull's Strength
Stunning Fist 13/day: Unused Wholeness of Body (18 points) : Unused Domain - Protection [1/day, standard action, resistance equal to cleric level, 1 hour] : Unused Domain - Strength [1/day, free action, strength enhancement equal to cleric level, 1 round] : Unused Brahmah's Tattoo of Goodberry (3/day, caster level 1, 1 day) : Unused Brahmah's Tattoo of Bull's Strength (2/day, caster level 3, 3 min) : Unused
Brother Bertram Friday December 22nd, 2006 7:23:23 PM
Bertram considers his spells carefully, and listens to what each of the others have available. He will probably end up spending his precious spells more on healing than offense.
K'Nara Friday December 22nd, 2006 7:57:00 PM
"I'm wearing a magic belt that enhances my strength." K'Nara volunteers as information. "But I, too, could use Bear's Endurance, Stone Skin, Freedom of Movement and some acid resistance...oh, as well as the water breathing spell, too."
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