Belkior Tuesday September 11th, 2007 10:02:21 PM
The halfling cleric smiles when Brother Arrvil invites the Shields to the heartseeding ceremony. Belkior clears his throat before speaking.
"Thank you for the invitation. I, for one, would be interested in observing the heart-seeding. If you don't mind, though, we will probably camp nearby rather than with you."
After speaking, Belkior turns to his companions and speaks quietly.
"Let's take the invitation. This might be where the dragon is coming for heart-seeding, or the cleric could be there. At a minimum, we can be on hand if one of these people is not willing to accept the heartseed."
Bin d20+9=13 Tuesday September 11th, 2007 10:55:15 PM
Bin remains calm as he stands next to the fire, "Are you all so willing to give your total freedoms to another? If your told to attack your parents, you would have to, you realize that don't you? If you are seeking strength and courage, you can't find it from something on the outside, you have to find it from withen yourself." Bin uses himself as an example, most of you are stronger then me at this moment, yet I am a succesful hero. I didn't ned anything but myself." he starts walking away from the fire and turns around, "I can teach you how to find courage from within yourself, if you desire. You really don't need someone or something to do it for you." He holds out his hand to take those that are willing to change their minds, and takes them off for a different place that evening.
Diplomacy to change childrens minds: 13 ooc: It was 28 and when I hit submit, it locked up on me, of course. I had to redo the post, lost the roll and likely the children because of it. Darn the technology of it all!!!
Angus Wednesday September 12th, 2007 9:54:42 AM
Angus mumbles to himself "To wilingly walk into the dragons mouth is not wisdom."
Angus looks at the Shields "Well it looks like we are staying. Lets keep our standard watch and everyone be wary. I am hoping the Ga'alin's will not cause trouble, but we may have to sho them the error off their ways yet again."
Angus prepare to take first watch as usual.
Wynn Wednesday September 12th, 2007 12:06:26 PM
A dark look on the bard's face relects the dark mood descending on the half-elf. He answers the diminuative protector, "and we will need to be on our guard this night." He turns and addresses the bug-bear. "Lang? Shall we find a place for camp?"
Xenia Wednesday September 12th, 2007 4:24:06 PM
"You kids, you know, you oughta think real careful about doing sump'in you can't undo before you jump in and do it." Advises the girl rogue with a wagging finger.
"I mean, I'm not saying your wrong. 'Cause if you told me I don't know 'cause I've never done it and I'm not you, then, well, you'd be right. But I know enough to say this, once you get this Heart Seed thing, there ain't no going back. You don't like it, you're stuck."
"Might wanna think about that. Study on it more for a while. I mean, it's not going nowhere right? You can always do it later."
With that final word, she turns to follow Wynn and the others toward a separate camp.
Lang & Sunshine Wednesday September 12th, 2007 4:24:32 PM
Lang nods to Wynn as he sniffs the air "We best get upwind of this group."
Lang lead the group to a campsite within a few hundred yards of the Ga'alians.
""This looks good" Announces Lang.
Syr Wednesday September 12th, 2007 8:45:49 PM
Watching the kids he shakes his head in disappointment befre following Lang. As the group prepares to camp, tells Angus, "One eye on the skies and one on the ground, right?"
DM/Sub - Al Wednesday September 12th, 2007 9:28:14 PM
Belkior comes up with a plan, and the group moves out of the light to find their own camp. A few of the Shields remain for some last words of advice. Bin, in particular, stays for a full minute, offering words of inspiration in a comforting and diplomatic vein. When he at last turns to leave, he can tell by the looks on many of the faces, that they think kindly of him, their attitudes turned from Hostile to Friendly. And yet, none follow.
The Crimson Shields find a camp nearby, a place with some distance, but one from which they can still watch the others. They set up a careful watch, but the night proves quiet and uneventful. Morning comes with the usual preparations. The faces of the various boys and girls turn toward the Shields' camp many times during the morning. But it's difficult to make out the expressions on their faces.
When Brother Arrvil and his group of teenagers move out, the Crimson Shields follow. The trail leads south east toward the same mountains from which the Shields had just come the day before.
"I can't keep you from going where you will," the Ga'alite priest calls to the Shields, "but you should be aware, that Philias and Grolin may not appreciate your presence. I will have no control over that. I give you fair warning."
The chatter of young people in social company drifts back to the Shields as the sun rises toward its destined meeting with the noon. Some of it is clear enough to be comprehensible and some of it is not.
"Is it true, Brother Arrvil," asks a fair haired girl, "that Ga'al may have us attack our parents?"
"Ga'al wishes you to be strong, Hyllien," comes the priest's reply. "But remember that Ga'al also loves you. You must trust in his love."
Strangely, the trail leans more to the south than toward the mountains, and the cave. Then, shortly after noon, the group comes to a clearing. Two red robed priests stand in the clearing with Brother Arrvil and the twelve children.
"Stop there!" one of them shouts. "You will remain at the outer edge of the clearing and you will not interfere. Do you understand?"
Behind the two priests is a small stack of carved wooden boxes, twelve in all.
Bin Wednesday September 12th, 2007 10:02:31 PM
"Children, this is your last chance to change your minds!" Bin calls out, truly upset at the situation. "If you want out now, just say so and they will let you go, or I will come and get you. Just say it!"
Bin anticipates at least one, any one, wanting to change their minds but he also believes in free will and he will settle for the fact that some day, he may have to kill four of them, or all of them.
Angus Thursday September 13th, 2007 12:07:18 AM
OOC: Angus had cast mage armor on himself before leaving and upon sighting the two priests casts message on his group.
--------------------------------
Angus looks surly when the priests yell at him and his friends "We understand you words well, but not your intentions. We are free men...and women and we go where we feel is right and just. You are about to strip free will from those too young to understand the loss of that gift. Explain yourselves"
Angus does not wait for an answer and he addresses the children of Stone Gap "Think hard about what you are about to give up. Your hopes and dreams will no longer be your own, but those of Ga'al. Are you prepared to kill your own parents if asked by the plant in your chest, or even more horrible acts against your true nature."
In quite tone to Bin and Belkior Angus adds "I do not think I can stomach letting this happen."
To all the Shields "Be ready."
Spell Slots:
0 Level 1/6 1 Level 1/8
Spells in effect:
mage armor - 10 hours message - 100 minutes on all Shields
Bin Thursday September 13th, 2007 2:01:39 AM
Bin places his hand upon their leader's shoulder and explains, "If we don't let them, they will despise us. Let us not become that which we hate."
CDM Jerry Thursday September 13th, 2007 2:43:35 PM
I need the report made and emailed to me after being posted here please.
Syr Thursday September 13th, 2007 8:02:26 PM
Syr looks torn as he watches the kids move into the clearing. Thinking to himself, they are freely giving up free will. What is the harm in that? They have been warned, all seem old enough to make their own decisions... yet it all just seems wrong.
Lang & Sunshine Thursday September 13th, 2007 8:27:56 PM
Lang is quiet as the Shields follow the children and the priest Arrvil to the clearing where the other Ga'al priests are waiting. He hears the 2 priest's warning to stay out of the clearing. He shakes his head knowing that he will not do that.
"If it is such an important ceremony getting this heartseed, why is it done out here in the middle of nowhere?"
"Angus, I am not going to stand here and watch this happen. We were sent here for a reason. Followers of Ga'al have done nothing but attack us since we were brought to this area. What other reason can we be here but to stop this from happening?"
"Bin, if these kids hate me for killing these priests so be it. At least they will be hating me on their own and not because someone told them to."
Lang casts the spell Longstrider and drinks a potion.
"Come on Sunshine, time to have some fun."
Lang draws his shortswords and moves into the clearing.
Spells: Longstrider - 3 hours Resist Energy
Active Effects: Potion - Shield of Faith
Wynn [AC=24; HP=69] Invisible d20+9=19 Thursday September 13th, 2007 8:34:24 PM
Wynn slides behind one of the trees and out of sight of the Gaalians [Hide=19] before casting a spell upon himself [Invisibility].
Effects:
Invisibility 70 rounds
Xenia d20+28=29 d20+18=37 Thursday September 13th, 2007 8:53:05 PM
Fram and frammbly! Things are hotting up!
As Wynn litterally disappears behind a tree, Xenia slips into the shadows, following Lang. Silent as the wind, still her form wavers to present a visible spectre of darkness that follows the bugbear. (Hide 29/Nat 1, Move Silently 37)
Belkior d20+6=20 Thursday September 13th, 2007 9:39:37 PM
The halfling cleric walks forward, calling out to the Ga'alians before doing so.
"I mean you no harm. If you recognize my devotion to Alemi, you will know that I am pledged to harm no thing."
Belkior hesitates before moving closer, looking around at his companions to see where they are in the clearing. Or used to be, in some cases.
"If these people truly wish to submit to the will of Ga'al, then there should be no objection to someone observing the ritual. I wish to hear and see each of these people ask for the heartseed."
Belkior turns to the villagers, smiling before speaking.
"You do want this, correct? Truly, without reservation?"
Tension mounts as the Crimson Shields bristle at the orders from the Ga'alist priests. They shout last minute warnings to the young adults who are about to take the heart seeds.
Finally, Lang can stand it no longer. He chants a spell and drinks down a potion before closing on the site of the ceremony. Xenia and Wynn blur. Wynn disappears.
The high scream from one of the girls splits the air as Lang approaches.
"The Bugbear! The Bugbear!" The clearing rings with cries of fear. "He has swords!"
"NO! STOP! There is no need for violence!" Brother Arrvil's voice is lost in the tumult. Belkior too attempts words of moderation but his reasoning is swallowed by the fearful aspect of the armed and approaching Bugbear and his vicious dog.
The priests begin casting. One points at Lang and he feels compelled to stop. (Lang Will Save vs DC15 or be Held for 3 rounds.)
Most of the children cluster around Brother Arrvil. One flees tentatively toward the woods, but stops to see if anyone else is following. Three of the larger boys, however, bravely converge upon the Bugbear that is Lang. Two carry stout clubs and one carries a knife. They shout and swing wildly. Even the blow that comes close to striking, is easily dodged by Lang.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
OOC: We're in Combat Rounds. One round's worth of action per post, please.
Status ====== P1 Unharmed P2 Unharmed AR Unharmed Children 1-12 Unharmed
Angus AC 14, HP 43 d20+4=9 d20+4=19 4d6(5+4+6+2)+4=21 4d6(2+1+6+5)+4=18 5d4(1+3+1+1+4)+5=15 Thursday September 13th, 2007 11:27:08 PM
Angus gives and internal smiles as Lang moves "A man of action, or should I say, our friendly neighborhood Bugbear."
Once the priest attacks Lang any hint of a smile is gone "That was not a good idea my friend. I see you and raise you."
Angus casts a scorching ray at the priest if in range, if not, magic missile.
------------------------------
OOC: was not expecting combat so quickly, please provide distances.
My bad, I completely missed the map the first time - MM it is!!
------------------------
AC 9, a rushed shot. damage 21 Ac 19, Angus seems to have the range now. damage 18
magic missile damage 15
Angus looks at the priests "Surrender or die."
Angus snaps his head around to Lang "Try not to kill the fools, but knock some sense into them."
mage armor - 10 hours message - 100 minutes on all Shields
Role Call - ADM Scott the Southern Friday September 14th, 2007 12:34:10 PM
Syr XOOXX Xenia XXXXX Bin XXXXX Lang OOXXX Wynn OOXOX Belkior XXXOX Angus XXOXX
I think that's right, if not I apologize. Obviously, last week was a bit unusual. Anyway, Al has stepped up and let's get back to our normal 90% posting to show support.
Syr AC 27/26 HP 86 Message W 17 Friday September 14th, 2007 12:46:17 PM
The time for debate seems to be over as Lang has forced the issue. Seeking to minimize the violence and still protect his friend, Syr sprints for the priests behind the rest of the others. Still not convinced of the evil intent of the priests of Ga'al he mutters to Angus as he runs, "I'm going to subdue at least one of the priests in the back." He flexes a fist and prepares to pull his punches for the first time in a while.
Bin (AC: 26/26 HP: 53/53 ) Friday September 14th, 2007 5:49:33 PM
As things heat up Bin yells out, "Arrvil, get the children away from here! Bin shouts out to cleric of Ga'al." He waves the priest away in a rush. Bin is very upset at his companions stupidity. You can't force people to change their minds and you can't stop someone from doing what they want to unless you inhibit their freedoms. The Protector is truly torn by the situation. His beliefs and ethics revolve around free choice, something his comrades don't seem to understand. He is a Protector, that is true, but a Protector of what now? He has to do something. "I will not participate in this abuse of freedoms." Tears roll down Bin's face at his dilemma, but he does not feel the hero's are in the right, and if a priest of Domi does not lead by example, then he has truly failed whatever test was set before him. "Stop your attacks!"
ooc: Sorry all, in character, I think you guys are wrong for stopping it and he's not getting involved in it. This will likely cause some problems and for that I apologize. Perhaps I need to bring in someone that does not think much, about anything.
Wynn [AC=24; HP=69] Invisible d20+4=18 Friday September 14th, 2007 9:14:44 PM
Unseen to his companions, and hopefully to his enemies, the bard makes his way into the clearing. He tries to avoid the children and Arrvil, and circles towards the back and the two more senior clerics.
[New Position = N-19 double move; Move Silently = 18, includes -5 penalty for moving normal speed ]
Belkior (AC 23; HP81) Friday September 14th, 2007 9:44:30 PM
The halfling cleric bristles at the violence launched by his companions. As much as Belkior dislikes the loss of will that submission to the heart seeds entails, he did want to hear the villagers choose. He wants to end this as quickly as possible without harming anyone.
Belkior moves closer so as to see as many of the priests and villagers as possible. He mutters a prayer to himself before shouting out, "Halt! In Alemi's Name, I Command you to Halt!"
Position G14
Actions Move - 20 ft to G14 Standard - cast Greater Command, using Halt option, Will DC 21 or halt for 11 turns (targetting AR, P1, P2 and children 4 - 11)
Active Effects Greater Command - 11 turns
Spells 0 (DC 16) - Detect Magic, Detect Magic, Read Magic, Resistance, Resistance 1 (DC 17) - Bless(x2), Magic Stone, Obscuring Mist, Sanctuary(x2) (D - Protection from Evil) 2 (DC 18) - Hold Person(x3), Silence(x2), Status (D - Aid) 3 (DC 19) - Dispel Magic, Invisibility Purge, Prayer, Protection from Energy (D - Magic Circle Against Evil) 4 (DC 20) - Air Walk, Freedom of Movement, Imbue with Spell Ability (D - Cure Critical Wounds) 5 (DC 21) - Greater Command*, Wall of Stone (D - Dispel Evil) * = cast
Xenia (AC22, AC26 vs AoO, AC23 & 27 vs 03, HP63/63) d20+11=14 d3=3 5d6(6+5+1+5+3)=20 Saturday September 15th, 2007 10:50:39 AM
Kids. They're just kids.
So go the thoughts through the dark rogue's head as she watches the three try to take down Lang.
"Listen kid," Xenia slides past Sunshine and dodges around the south most Young Village Guy. "I think it's probs best if you just stay down for this one," she whispers as she comes out of the dark, a slim black skinned girl, red hair peeking out from under a black bandana.
Weaponless, she takes a sock at him from behind. Sure, it's a place that's gonna hurt. It's gonna hurt a lot. But at least the kid will live.
Rolls and Actions Unarmed Strike Hit 03 AC14 (Drawing an AoO from either move or unarmed strike) Damage 3+20Sneak = 23hp (Non-lethal)
Movement and Position O16
Lang (AC 26; HP 122/122; Sunshine AC 23; HP 47/47) d20+8=22 Sunday September 16th, 2007 12:25:37 AM
Lang resists the spell that the cleric has cast at him (will 22). He is disheartened when the 3 children attack him. How can they have the will power to stand up to him and not see through the double talk that the Ga'al clerics are spewing? Lang drops his arms to his sides, showing them that he will not attack them.
"Why are you fighting me? My fight is not with you, it is with the Ga'al clerics."
OOC - No worries Bin. Play your character's personality as you have built him. Lang isn't going to kill any of the children he was just trying to scare them away. He also isn't going kill the clerics, he just wanted to get them separated from the kids so the Shields could talk to them before they start heartseeding.
Spells: Longstrider - 3 hours Resist Energy
Active Effects: Potion - Shield of Faith - 9/10 rounds
Hell Goes Back Where it Came From (DM/Sub - Al) d20+7=22 d20+7=8 d20+7=17 d20=17 d20=17 d20=9 d20=16 d20=2 d20=16 d20=9 Sunday September 16th, 2007 1:13:23 PM
Magic missiles streak from Angus' fingers, badly burning one of the priests.
Screams of fear and shouts of warning fill the clearing.
Syr and Wynn move into the melee. Bin calls out for the madness to stop, but it's Belkior's voice that carries weight. Brother Arrvil is suddenly amidst a group of silent children as all of them are stunned to silence at finding their movement Halted. The two priests, as well, find that they cannot move from their places.
Xenia drops one of the three boys attacking Lang, and the remaining two, faced with the dark demonic girl and the monstrous bugbear, grip their respective weapons and await the end. So taken are they by their fear, that the do not appear to hear Lang's calm and kindly words.
The fight is over as quickly as it began. The silence is loud in the wake of the screams and crying and interrupted only by the sniffles of the girl who huddles on her own between the group of her companions and the edge of the clearing.
"You do this to us." Brother Arrvil's words are filled sadness and anger. "You disrupt our ceremony, and you wonder why the Aisil name you an enemy."
[ OoC: End of Combat. DM Dominic will be taking over Monday. Lets see where we go from here. ]
Bin Sunday September 16th, 2007 1:51:46 PM Yep, there it is.
Bin tightens the laniard on his belt and begins walking toward the priest that was hit by Angus's misguided, yet damaging spell.
"Please allow me to heal your wounds? I will wait until you can respond before I do so."
Strange Awakenings (DM Dominic) Monday September 17th, 2007 3:46:48 PM
Each of you awaken with a sudden jolt covered in sweat from what you think was a nightmare. You look around finding yourselves in a small clearing amongst several trees.
In the exact center of the clearing is a small basket containing seven small nut breads and seven small flasks.
OOC: all of your spells/items used in the brief combat that Al just ran were not used. that was your nightmare. I have received current character sheets from Wynn, Xenia, Belkior, & Bin. I need them from the rest of you asap.
Bin Berry Monday September 17th, 2007 4:44:07 PM
With a start, the protector bolts upright, as the words to a healing spell are on his lips. He looks over to Angus and Lang with fire in his eyes and anger on his brow, but then the scenes from his nightmare begin to fade as does his attitude, "What in the abyss just occured?" He looks toward the center of the clearing to see what is there. The aroma of fresh baked bread sends him back to his territory outside Plateau City where he first started his training. Standing, he casts a spell, "Domi, please allow me to notice that which is toxic."
Actions: Detect Poison and direct it toward the clearings center first.
Xenia d20+21=22 d20+16=28 Monday September 17th, 2007 8:36:23 PM
??? !?!?!?!
Xenia rises up from the ground all confoozled and really wanting a bath. There's just nothing to say. Not much of nothing. She takes a look around. (Spot 22/Nat1, Listen 28) She goes to pull a bread thing and a flask of drink from the basket over which Bin is doing Magic Stuff. She takes one for her and one for Wynn and goes to sit down beside him.
On her face is a lost sort of hurt sorta frown.
Xenia sniffs at the loaf of bread stuff.
"Whaddya think?" she asks Wynn. "I just don't know. I just don't know anymore."
Belkior Monday September 17th, 2007 9:47:44 PM
The halfling cleric awakes with a start, jumping nimbly to his feet and looking around the clearing.
"Where are the children? The Ga'alians?," Belkior wonders.
Then he looks to his companions and he sees none of the wounds suffered within the priest's cavern. Slowly, Belkior realizes that it was merely a dream ... but a bad one.
Angus Monday September 17th, 2007 10:47:10 PM
Angus stands up and dusts himself off. "Not again. I can't tell what is dream and what is not anymore."
------------------------
OOC: I am traveling and can not send my character until Monday.
Wynn Tuesday September 18th, 2007 8:01:49 AM
The bard awaken's to the pastoral scene and wonders just how much more the gods will toy with their lives.
Lang & Sunshine Tuesday September 18th, 2007 9:00:54 PM
Lang doesn't know what to think about the latest dream the Shields were in.
Renewal - DM Dominic Tuesday September 18th, 2007 11:09:06 PM
Releasing his spell Bin garners the knowledge that the food and drink is not poisoned in anyway.
Smelling the bread Xenia is greeted with the delightful scent of fresh baked bread causing her stomach to rumble slightly in protest that she has not eaten in several hours.
Listening to the surrounding area Xenia hers nothing other than the slight breeze threw the surrounding trees.
Everyone has the feeling of warmth and calmness wash over them filling them with renewed energy. Each of you begins to feel the ever so slight rumbles in your guts that is your bodies telling you that you have not eaten in several hours.
After a short while (ca. 30 min) you all start to feel the urge that you have unfinished business someplace nearby.
Bin Wednesday September 19th, 2007 1:00:28 AM
Bin does not partake of the food and drink. He does go over his dream with everyone else though, to see if they all had the same dream, "It's as if, I was really there. I don't know about the rest of you, but this test sucks. I don't know if I am failing, passing or ditching class anymore. What's this, the fourth time in a week we have been translocated by the divine? Much more and I will likely just drop my hammer in the dirt and become a hermit somewhere." Since he does not know who baked it, he will eat his own rations instead of what was left.
Xenia Wednesday September 19th, 2007 2:08:26 AM
"'Sucks'." Xenia chuckles at Bin's slang. "Never heard that one before. But yeah. It's a weerdo thing."
hehe. 'Sucks.' That's a good one.
Even white teeth behind dark black lips take a delicate bite from one corner of the nutty scented loaf.
"Mmmm. 'ish iss goo'." She breaks off a chunk and holds it up to feed Wynn.
"'up, shuk ... " The rogue swallows her bite of bread. "But, sucks or not, Bin, I mean, like, isn't this your god who's doing this? I mean, your sure that's Domi, right? Isn't it?"
"And just thinking, you know, but aren't tests supposed to be, like, you know, suck suck sucky? Best thing is to prepare best you can, jump in and get it over with. If you pass, great. If not, you work to fix what's wrong and try again."
"Sometimes, you don't get to try again, though. I think this is one of those times."
"Everyone else ready to run at this again? Angus you wanted to pull back and take another run at this, right? Well, here we are. What's the plan?"
OoC: DM, what time of day is it?
Angus Wednesday September 19th, 2007 8:11:41 AM
The impossibly thin Sorcerer does not see any sweets or fruit and does not give the food much consideration as he looks at his fellow Shields "What now? I can no longer tell what is dream and what is real any more. Wynn pinch Xenia to make sure this is real." Angus finishes with a smile.
Role call- ADM Scott the Southern Wednesday September 19th, 2007 9:36:13 AM
Bin XOXXX Angus XOXXX Lang XOXXX Xenia XOXXX Syr XOXXX Belkior XOXXX Wynn XOXXX
1 missed DM post... Thanks Al for last week and Welcome to the new DM.
Bin Wednesday September 19th, 2007 10:23:18 AM
"All the gods are my gods Xenia, I just respect the ways of Domi more. Sometimes, a little donkey needs to be kicked, and when it comes right down to it, nobody kicks better then Domi." He finishes his beef jerky, "Beside, it was a priestess of Domi that found me and saved me. That is where I learned all my knowledge. I don't know any more, if I was found by a priest of Ga'al, would I be here fighting you all today?" Bin doubts his own thinking any more. "Look guys, at this point, I don't care if a dragon gets heartseeded anymore, and I don't care of children are also. To be quite blunt, I hardly care about anything since it seems the councel of those wiser then others are not only unheeded, but ignored. I am not sure if what happened with the children really happened or not, but if I ever mention the fact we should not get involved in something, especially when we are not in danger, and it is not at least discussed, I will be taking my leave."
He gets up and dusts himself off, before preparing to head whereever.
Xenia (2nd Illegal Post) Wednesday September 19th, 2007 3:26:57 PM
"Hey, you know, Bin, I understand. Really, I do. But when things get really craze and everything's like, hopelessly strung, I mean, it's hard to sit down and talk about it. And it's like my Da always says, usually it's better if everyone's going the same way. Even if it's the wrong way."
"But I know what you mean. Things go the wrong way too many times, then you just gotta move on."
Bin second post Wednesday September 19th, 2007 4:50:49 PM
Bin acknowledges Xenia, "Perhaps the wrong path is alright for some, but for those that have a chosen path in store for themselves, it is better to sit idle, then to deter and lose that which you have struggled to achieve all your life."
Syr Wednesday September 19th, 2007 4:51:15 PM
He listens carefully to the Bin before following him and queitly speaking, "You bring up a good point Bin. I thought that others were a bit rash in that dream. I also follow Domi and I was always taught that he was a protector and defender. There are two things I noticed about that encounter that concerned me. Some of us thought the children needed to be protected. Secondly... and I thought I was the impulsive one... due to our friendship, I felt compelled to come to the other Shields' defense."
OOC: I had an OSHA audit the last two days, I will send the character sheet tonight.
Belkior Wednesday September 19th, 2007 9:49:27 PM
The halfling cleric is ready to assume the burdens laid on him by Domi, or whoever sent the Shields on this quest. Belkior checks all of his items and thinsk of what he would need again. Of course, he doesn't trust his dream to have been an accurate prediction of what is to come.
Strange Revelation - DM Dominic Wednesday September 19th, 2007 11:34:25 PM
Xenia eats some of the bread then realizes that is some of the best tasting travelers bread that she has ever tasted. She quickly finishes off what bread she took from the basket.
As you continue to talk about the different paths of life, Sunshine begins to move around the edge of the clearing then moves into the trees at the edge. After a couple of moments Sunshine comes hurrying back into the clearing and begins to bark at all of you as if trying to get your attention.
OOC: the time of day is early-mid morning
Wynn Thursday September 20th, 2007 7:46:57 AM
The bard rises and makes his way to the edge of the clearing, one hand on the pommel of his longsword. "What is it boy?" he tries to calm the dog.
Xenia d20+28=32 d20+18=37 d20+21=28 d20+16=24 Thursday September 20th, 2007 9:32:49 AM
"Yeah alright," the rogue replies to Bin. "I don't guess we can count on you to back us up, then. I mean, if your morals say 'No', you know. 'S alright. To each their own."
Sunshine starts to barking and time for talk is over. Xenia slips into Wynn's shadow and follows along, silent and unseen, watching and listening for danger. (Hide 32, Move Silently 37, Spot 28, Listen 24)
Bin Thursday September 20th, 2007 10:30:21 AM
"If your actions are misguided and I can't bring you back from that, then what you say is correct, your on your own." He walks with the others, but for how long?
Syr d20+9=23 Thursday September 20th, 2007 6:36:40 PM
Not ready to get into a debate about Domi, he remains silent instead of pursuing his question to Bin.
As the dog comes back, Syr looks over at Sunshine then around the clearing (spot 23), "Lang?" Finally, he tries to watch Xenia as he knows she has the best eyes in the group.
Lang & Sunshine d20+6=11 Thursday September 20th, 2007 9:54:18 PM
Lang heads over to where Sunshine is barking. he looks around trying see what is making his dog bark. He also takes a big whiff trying to pick up a strange or new scent.
Spot 11
Belkior Thursday September 20th, 2007 11:15:39 PM
The halfling cleric listens to the discussion between Bin, Xenia and the others. Belkior knows simply what burdens and tasks he has taken with his devotion to Alemi.
"Bin ... Xenia. I freely accepted the vows and oaths that my devotion to Alemi requires. Sometimes, certainly, that means that I am at odds with my companions. But I believe that Alemi has set me on this path and I intend to follow it every day, hour and minute of my existence. I've tried, as much as possible, to explain to the Shields what restrictions my vows place upon me so they understand when I don't aid them in some ways."
"Maybe I'm not the most strict of Paragons when I choose to aid and protect my companions, rather than remaining neutral. But I truly believe that my companions are acting in accordance with Alemi's desires, and if I ever felt otherwise, then I would not do so."
As he's saying this, Belkior dusts himself off and prepares to go where the others lead.
Angus Thursday September 20th, 2007 11:35:39 PM
Angus takes of his big floppy leather traveling hat and sits down to take a load off "What does Sunshine smell of does he just need a run to the wood for a call to nature?"
Angus stands up and reaches for the sky to loosen his back. "Maybe we have a sign."
Bin ooc Friday September 21st, 2007 10:58:42 AM
Waiting for post.
Angus/Jim Saturday September 22nd, 2007 9:16:17 AM
OOC: Hi Dominic, I forgot what time of day you said you would be posting? Should we expect 5 Dm posts per weeks?
Bin Saturday September 22nd, 2007 5:43:59 PM The protector day dreams of his youth. It begins with the time he futilely attempted to save his little friend from the drunk. How he was almost killed in doing so. The benefactor that found him and healed him and brought him to the temple of Domi and fed him. Are the priests of Ga'al that different? The Shields had a once in a lifetime chance to watch a ceremony that had never been seen outside of Aisuldur This may have been the only chance the outside world would have to gain knowledge of their ways. Was it ruined because of emotion? Bin knows, if someone had tried to prevent him from learning from Sorreal, he would have resisted, as will the people of Stone Gap if they approach their new religion without evidence of the aggressive nature the shields have seen the Ga'alian's exhibited.
Interesting Sight - DM Dominic Monday September 24th, 2007 2:15:35 AM
As your approach Sunshine, Sunshine stops barking then starts to lead you into the trees surrounding the clearing. Upon reaching the outer edge of the trees that form the small clearing you can make out what looks to be the cave that you had started to explore. From where you are you can catch the slight movement of shadows just beyond the entrance of the cave.
The cave entrance is approximately 20 feet away. Spot check DC 25 from everyone please.
OOC - Sorry for the missed posts we had a family emergency. My wife's grandfather was admitted to the hospital. I am now back to normal routine. Sorry for the missed posts. Dominic
Xenia d20+21=36 d20+16=30 d20+28=31 d20+18=27 Monday September 24th, 2007 8:02:17 AM
The dark rogue slips out of shadow at the sighting of the cave.
You're a good pup," she ruffles the fur on top of Sunshine's head.
"Whyn't we get the Message Thing going again and I'll check out what's ahead, huh?" Xenia suggests.
Rolls and Actions Spot 36, Listen 30, Hide 31, Move Silently 27 (H & MS are 1/2 speed)
Bin d20+8=17 Monday September 24th, 2007 11:22:02 AM
Bin follows the others quietly, prepared for anything. His eyes continue to scope the landscape and the skies above.
Syr Monday September 24th, 2007 5:39:42 PM
Seeing the cave entrance, he moves a bit closer to the others. "Boss, this looks strangely familiar. Do we want to charge up on spells again?"
Lang & Sunshine Monday September 24th, 2007 6:46:22 PM
Lang wonders how this can be the same cave entrance as it is not high up off the ground. He looks towards Angus for guidance on what to do next.
Angus Monday September 24th, 2007 8:44:56 PM
Angus is getting a sense of having acted in this play before "Let be careful people" The sorcerer cautions as he cast message on all the Shields and mage armor on himself.
"Xenia see what you can see and be quite about it. This will help."
mage armor - 10 hours message - 100 minutes on all Shields Invisibility on Xenia 10 minutes
Belkior d20+6=26 Monday September 24th, 2007 10:05:58 PM
The halfling cleric trudges along with his companions, trying to avoid the worst of the burrs and other things that might get stuck in the fur on his legs. Once Sunshine leads them into the clearing, Belkior can't help but look towards the cave entrance and spots whatever might be there. Spot = 26 (natural 20)
"Xenia!," Belkior whispers louder than he had wanted. "Let me put a spell on you before you head off."
Belkior casts Status on Xenia, Lang and Syr to better keep track of what may happen to the scouts.
Active Effects[/i] Status - 11 hours
[u]Spells 0 (DC 16) - Detect Magic(x2), Read Magic, Resistance(x2) 1 (DC 17) - Bless(x2), Magic Stone, Obscuring Mist, Sanctuary(x2) (D - Protection from Evil) 2 (DC 18) - Resist Energy(x4), Silence, Status* (D - Aid) 3 (DC 19) - Dispel Magic, Prayer, Protection from Energy(x2) (D - Magic Circle Against Evil) 4 (DC 20) - Air Walk, Freedom of Movement, Imbue with Spell Ability (D - Holy Smite) 5 (DC 21) - Greater Command, Wall of Stone (D - Dispel Evil) * = cast
Flickering Shadows - DM Dominic Monday September 24th, 2007 11:19:07 PM
Looking more carefully Xenia and Belkior make out 3 distinct forms moving about in the shadows of the cave entrance. Each shadow reminds you of the skeletal devils that you saw last time you were here. After a couple of moments the shadows stop moving and you loose sight of them in the shadows of the cave entrance.
Each of you steels yourselves for what you feel is a test of your abilities.
OOC - from here on my next post will be combat posting style. one round of actions allowed. Map will be sent out via email when I make my next posting.
Wynn (AC 24, 69 HP) d20+6=20 d20+6=9) Tuesday September 25th, 2007 12:06:04 AM
"Wynn isn't too happy to hear Angus send Xenia off first, once again. The spells and blessing placed on the rogue are a small consolation.
"What do you see?" he calls out, his voice low and hoarse, barely above a whisper.
The bard's hand twitches nervously over his weapon as his eyes scan the dark maw of the cave and his ears strain for a response from the half-drow.
(Spot=20, Listen=9)
Role Call - ADM Scott the Southern Tuesday September 25th, 2007 12:47:24 AM
Bin XXXXO Xenia XXXXO Belkior XXXXO Angus XXXXO Wynn XXXXO Lang XXXXO Syr XXXXO
DM had the real world calling. I hope everything is okay?
Xenia (AC24, HP 63/63) Tuesday September 25th, 2007 8:00:11 AM
"'Member those Bony Guys?" This time, rather than forging ahead as she had done before, Xenia returns very quickly. "I think it's them."
"Here, quick." She hands two small flasks of oil to both Lang and Wynn. "According to the guy at the store, these will, like, Bless your Weapons. That's a good thing. I think."
"Better prepare up." She takes a scroll of Magic Circle Against Evil from her haversack and hands it to Bin. "Could you cast this on me. Please?" she asks. Then she takes out her last Oil of Bless Weapon, the bow captured from the Plompy Halfling, and she slips one of the Plompy Butt Halfling's deadly arrows into her quiver. She takes out a scroll of Expeditious Retreat and holds it at the ready.
Xenia takes a deep breath and goes to stand by Wynn. "I love you," she says. And awaits the coming of the Bony Guys.
Rolls and Actions Give Oil of Bless Weapon to Lang and Wynn
Active Effects Magic Circle Against Evil (50 minutes)
Items Expended: Scroll, Magic Circle Against Evil
Bin (AC: 26/26 HP: 53/53 ) Tuesday September 25th, 2007 5:56:14 PM
Bin takes the scroll and before he casts it reminds the group, "There is a good chance with my divine power of turning the bone...things..(he failed his knowledge planes the last time I believe) If they were summoned, isn't there a duration? Given the facts, perhaps we should wait until night when our scouts have a better advantage?"
Actions: Waiting for response from Angus and continues with Xenia's scroll if that is decided. (delayed action)
Lang (AC 24; HP 122/122; Sunshine AC 23; HP 47/47) Tuesday September 25th, 2007 6:47:19 PM
Lang takes the magic oil from Xenia. He then applies it to his weapon that he carries in hi right hand.
Once done he looks towards the cave mouth.
Spells: Longstrider: not cast yet Jump: not cast yet
Holding: 2 magical arrows (used) Potion of Rage Great Sword
Syr AC 27/26 HP 86/86, Tuesday September 25th, 2007 7:36:06 PM
Syr moves 10' to the side of Lang and prepares to face anything coming from the cave.
Belkior (AC 23; 24 vs. evil) - Magic Circle vs. Evil Tuesday September 25th, 2007 9:15:42 PM
The halfling cleric hears Xenia's request and does the same thing himself. Belkior casts Magic Circle Against Evil on himself, then prepares to cast other spells on his companions while the scouting occurs.
Active Effects Magic Circle Against Evil - 120 minutes Status - 11 hours
Spells 0 (DC 16) - Detect Magic(x2), Read Magic, Resistance(x2) 1 (DC 17) - Bless(x2), Magic Stone, Obscuring Mist, Sanctuary(x2) (D - Protection from Evil) 2 (DC 18) - Resist Energy(x4), Silence, Status* (D - Aid) 3 (DC 19) - Dispel Magic, Prayer, Protection from Energy(x2) (D - Magic Circle Against Evil*) 4 (DC 20) - Air Walk, Freedom of Movement, Imbue with Spell Ability (D - Holy Smite) 5 (DC 21) - Greater Command, Wall of Stone (D - Dispel Evil) * = cast
Angus Tuesday September 25th, 2007 10:29:44 PM
Angus looks in the direction of Xenia's voice as he can not see the now invisible rouge "Back so soon? Is there anything else in the cave? Is the bell still there or any sign of dragon?"
Angus looks at Bin "Lets try to wait out the demons and see if they are summoned. It may use up the invisiblity on Xenia, but it will be worth it if we do not have to dispatch them ourselves."
ooc: Dominic distances would help at this point. How far away is the cave mouth? Do we have cover? Is the terrain aminable to running if necessary?"
Angus faces Syr and Wynn "Do either of you want to be a troll?"
mage armor - 10 hours message - 100 minutes on all Shields Invisibility on Xenia 10 minutes
Bin (AC: 26/26 HP: 53/53 ) d20+8=16 d20+6=14 Wednesday September 26th, 2007 11:00:46 AM
Bin waits with the others as Angus suggested. The Protector continues to watch the skies and the terrain around him, as it seems most are watching the entrance to the earth.
Spot: 16 Listen: 14
Wearing: Mage's cloak and headband. Halfling's boots.
Syr Wednesday September 26th, 2007 12:56:37 PM
Planting himself in front of Angus, "Since this is one of the biggest tests of our life, hit me with the troll boss. I think we'll need it. Especially if it's those devils that we dreamed of..."
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