Preparation (DM JohnP) Monday May 31st, 2010 11:13:21 PM
Durgan strolls through the archway into the court. It is a wide, open space with ample room for observers separated by a grey stone waist-high (for a human) barrier from the benches for the participants. The room is dominated by a high white marble platform, presumably for those who sit in judgement so that they can look down upon the ones being judged. The platform is large enough to accomodate eight large chairs or thrones, also made from the same white stone. The chairs so closely match the platform that is nigh impossible to distinguish where one ends and the other begins.
The defendant's area is also enclosed by the grey barrier, with two openings for beings to enter or exit. The bench inside is also white and a ledge runs on the inner side of the barrier, wide enough to hold sheets of parchment or implements of any kind. Right now, it is bare except for a plain, colorless crystal pitcher of a clear liquid that is probably water and a platter containing biscuits that are artfuly arranged in a pattern.
A small automaton constructed of gleaming brass is slowly polishing the outer face of the barrier around the prisoners' box as Durgan approaches with Torgon and Kazak. When Kazak requests iced tea, the construct stops its work and exits through an opening on the far side of the Court. After a moment, it returns with a pitcher of iced tea that drips with condensation. When he sips, Kazak finds the iced tea to be to his liking.
The Bailiff inclines its head to listen to Xenia as the rogue requests permission to to walk around the area. After a moment, Rash and Xenia receive a response to the request.
"It is not forbidden to walk as you request. Do not stray too far, though, nor should you be tardy. The Court keeps a strict schedule and delay without good reason is not permitted."
When Xenia does explore, she finds the Court to be quite boring. The place is plain and unadorned for the most part. And when there is adornment, it is almost always regular, repeating patterns of lines or curves. There is one mosaic which catches Xenia's attention for a moment since it seems to be a random arrangement of coloured chips but the half-elf has the nagging suspicion that there is some underlying pattern or method to the arrangement.
The people and beings moving through the Court and its surroundings are a diverse mix of powerful lawful outsiders - good, evil and neutral alike. Constructs like they have faced before, angels and demons plus many others. Each moves purposefully to their destination, only occasionally pausing for conversation. Some of these beings arrive in what Xenia and Rash assume to the same manner as they did although none are accompanied by beings from the Material Plane like themselves.
During their walking, the pair don't identify any clear boundary or exit to whatever may lay beyond the influence of the Court. There is a place, though, where a pair of constructs stand. When they approach, Xenia and Rash receive a polite, but firm, instruction not to pass. They might investigate more but a clear tone sounds and one of the constructs speaks in a clear, high-pitched voice totally unsuited for such a large thing, "The Trial is about to commence. Please proceed to the Court chamber."
Torgon AC: 34 HP : 180/180 Tuesday June 1st, 2010 9:01:54 AM
Torgon sits patiently, waiting for the "trial" to begin. He keeps an eye on Peerimus, trusting the druids instincts and perceptions. He thinks that perhaps by gauging Peerimus' reactions, he will be able to have a little warning if things are about to get out of hand.
Xenia (AC33/ HP103/103) Tuesday June 1st, 2010 1:32:20 PM
"Hi, I'm Xenia. I'm with ... I guess, with the Defendants." The girl rogue strolls about the limited Court area introducing herself to the arrivals with her signature hand-wave. No one, though, seems particularly chatty, preferring, it seems, to go straight on to what they came here for and stick to that. Not real friendly, but understandable in a single-minded sorta way.
It's not much of a let down when the chime goes off calling for folks to come in for the Trial Thing. Not as disappointing as not being let out of the door for a look around, at least.
Now they'd find out exactly what this is all about. Now, they'd at least get something settled. Xenia eyes the Platform of Judges, taking in the look of the folks who would be standing in judgement of them. She'd come to trust the Angel Guy, but what of the others? What rides on the outcome of this trial? Is this life and death for herself and the rest of the Chaos Guys? And if so, doesn't that mean that what happens here may determine the fate of the whole Southie Continent Place? 'Cause who else is gonna stop this Migration Thing?
The bench don't look too comfortable, but the girl rogue takes a seat none the less. She perches on the edge, taking out her notebook a pen and ink, ready to write down anything that might be useful.
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Craft Composite Shortbow +2STR (Value 225 gp / Weekly DC 2250 / Daily DC 22500) Today's Progress Roll 35*30 = 1,050 Total Progress 7,830/22500 - 35% Complete
OOC - Heading out of Town tonight (DM JohnP) Tuesday June 1st, 2010 3:31:15 PM
Not sure if I can post.
Durgan Stonewall (AC 38; HP 270/270) Tuesday June 1st, 2010 3:59:03 PM
"Tea? Tea is fer elves. If there isn't any ale, then I guess I will just have water."
Kazak Stonewall.Ac 36 Hp 203/212) Tuesday June 1st, 2010 4:31:25 PM
"Heh its ice tea ... bro .... not dat daint hot tea ..... dis stuff is cool and refreshing ..... try some .... its even sweetened a litte " .....
The dwarf sgahkes his head at the words " the trial will commence ...."
" heh ... trail fer what .... i better find out soon .... or i'll feed Durgan ale by da barrel .... just to see what a happens " ... grins Kazak
Getting comfortable in his seat .... he waits ... and watches .... " Angels and Demons ..... sounds like a book title in some big city library " snorts the younger dwarf quietly ;-)
Rash Tuesday June 1st, 2010 5:04:45 PM
Rash follows Xenia around, really not to worried that the elven girl will do anything to cause trouble but following along to just make sure. Also wanting to be there in case something makes trouble for her. Rash finally moves back into the room grabbing a glass of ice tea as well. She looks at the dwarves, reaches into Durgan's beard and pulls out some kind of meat from the evening before. "I see your not to worried about your appearance." Rash scolds in a light but obviously stressed tone. "I don't even want to think what your underbreeches look like! I hope you don't get into an accident while I am not around and have to go to a normal healer. You would shame your clan."
Rash plunks down on the cold stone bench and wiggles to adjust herself to a more comfortable position. "I hope we can prove our innocence today. I somehow think escape from this place might prove difficult."
Domain give Rash automatic freedom of movement as per spell indicates domain spell
Zero: Read Magic, Create Water, Detect Magic, Light, Purify Food and Drink, Detect Poison First:Longstrider* Shield of Faith x 2, Command, Endure Elements, Comprehend Languages, Protection from Evil, Divine favor x 2 Second:Spiritual Hammer* Restoration Lesser x 2, Delay Poison, Hold Person, Resist Energy, Aid, Augury Third:Fly*, Invisibility Purge, Magical Vestment x 2, Prayer, Searing light, Remove blindness/deafness, Water breathing Fourth:Dimension Door*, Divine Power, Restoration, Sending, Dismissal, Magic Weapon Greater, Freedom of Movement Fifth: Teleport*, Righteous Might, Spell Resistance, True Seeing, Flame Strike, Commune, Disrupting Weapon, Dispel Law Sixth:Blade Barrier* Heal x2, Dispel Magic Greater x 2 Seventh: Greater teleport*, Holy Word, Empowered cure light mass, Dictum, Restoration greater Eighth: Phase door* Summon Monster 8, Holy Aura, Spell Immunity Greater, Discern Location Ninth: Astral Projection* Miracle, x2 Heal mass, (third miracle is in spell staff which is kept in haversack
Common tactics for spells: Both magical vestments spells along with Longstrider will be cast using the Karma prayer bead and the lesser extend rod. The greater Magic Weapon spell will be cast with the normal extend rod and Karma bead. This spells will last 42 hours before they need to be recast. Endure elements is also cast at night as well and lasts 24 hours
Contingency: (Cast with Miracle spell) When I cast my divine power spell, righteous might is automatically cast. Spells staff (cast with Miracle) holds a miracle spell in it. Twice a day Rash can cast invisibility from the tattoo.
Peerimus AC 34 HP 137/137 and Yorrick AC 42 HP 160/160 Tuesday June 1st, 2010 10:22:52 PM
Peerimus moves to the bench and sits with Yorrick taking up a comfortable spot in front of him. His mind is still working through the myriad of arguements and outcomes and how he might get anyone home to try again to stop the migration. He tries to stay calm and portray a calm fasade, but teh constant shifting so as to maintain contact with Yorrick belies his otherwise normal appearance. Xenia believes the Baliff is the voice from the Edge and she is almost certainly correct. After all she heard it there and had a good ear for such things and a good head on her shoulders. The power arrayed meant that if it united they would be obliderated. Would the power arrayed here unite, could something premptive be said or done to prevent it? The Baliff's words on a court of Chaos were true to a point. No such body existed currently, but that as a secret Chaos enjoyed he supposed. He could simply invoke it at will and as an agent of Chaos, the leader of the Champions of Chaos, descendant of the first Powers of Chaos and choosen of the Crones, he felt he had such authority if he wished.
The chime sounds, Peerimus takes a deep breath and readies himself. There would be procedures, ther would be reading and accusations and that meant there would still be time
Firn'gaer HP: 119; AC20 (T15); Arcane Sight, Detect Magic, See Invisibility, Read Magic, SR18 Tuesday June 1st, 2010 10:34:01 PM
Firn'gaer takes note of the spell the Bailiff uses to transport the CoC to the Court of Law.
Once there, he keeps quiet and takes in the room studying it carefully lighting his pipe and smoking while he waits.
Opening (DM JohnP) Tuesday June 1st, 2010 10:37:07 PM
The Children of Chaos take their seats within the defendants' bench area while the Bailiff watches. Meanwhile, observers of all types file into the Court to watch the coming proceedings. Once the Children are seated and the automaton has fetched beverages for all of them, the Bailiff gives a signal and a small creature bangs a mithril gong suspended from a black, metallic frame near the judges chairs. A hush quickly settles in the Court.
The judges enter slowly from an entrance near the seats. Leading the eight judges is a tall, insectoid being that the Children recognizae as a formian myrmach. Rash and the others recognize the other creatures - a solar angel, a rakshasa, a pit devil and horned devil, a couatl, a hound archon and a mechanical construct that they recognize as an inevitable. The formian and the inevitable sit together in the centre two chairs, flanked on either side by the good and evil judges. Once they are seated, the formian motions towards the Bailiff, who stiffens and then begins to speak.
"The Court of Law is in session, judging the actions and intent of the group of mortals known as the Children of Chaos. The Children of Chaos are affiliated with the chaotic forces of the Wold and have served to bring disorder and disharmony to the Wold. The Court will judge whether the Children of Chaos threaten to upset the natural order and balance of the Wold dictated by the Jericho. By default, the Court of Law is mandated by the Jericho to judge and enforce the balance as envisioned at the creation of the Wold."
"According to custom and practice accepted from time immemorial, the trial will be in two parts: the Trial of Nature and the Trial of Intent."
"Children of Chaos, who will speak for you?"
Rash Wednesday June 2nd, 2010 12:05:10 AM
Rash stands up, straightens her armor, points at Peerimus and says, "He will. He is our leader." She promptly sits back down.
Torgon AC: 34 HP : 180/180 Wednesday June 2nd, 2010 8:58:50 AM
Torgon sits back and observes the ongoing proceedings. His mind wanders to think upon the possible magic in effect in this room, and how unlikely it was that any of them would survive a fight should it come to that. "Speak well, and carefully Peerimus" he thinks to himself.
Xenia (AC33/ HP103/103) d20+12=27 ; Wednesday June 2nd, 2010 10:54:27 AM
The impulses come. There's the Hold on there! impulse. And there's the Just one minute now impulse too. Xenia quashes both, choosing instead to rise from her seat in a slower more deliberate, even elegant fashion. The dark folds of her new robe straighten as she stands, cloaking her in an austere dignity.
"If you will, please," she begins, picking her words with much much more care than is her usual wont, "I would like to ask why it is that we must have a single spokesperson for our group?"
"I've been with these folks for only a few short months, but it's been my experience that each of them is sensible. Each one of them has something of worth to say when he or she speaks."
"What I'm asking is that we be allowed to each speak for the defense of all. I think we have the trust in each other to know that we will each say what is right and that we will each only speak when the right thing is there to be said."
Xenia turns to the other Chaos Guys for objections to or support for her assertion before turning back to the assembled judges on their lofty platform. She smiles a white smile in her dark face and spreads her hands in am open affable manner. "What can I say," she says, "We got sense."
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Diplomacy 27
Craft Composite Shortbow +2STR (Value 225 gp / Weekly DC 2250 / Daily DC 22500) Today's Progress Roll 35*30 = 1,050 Total Progress 7,830/22500 - 35% Complete
Durgan Stonewall (AC 38; HP 270/270) Wednesday June 2nd, 2010 3:56:28 PM
That Woman! Durgan grumps, curses and fusses with her attention to the state of his beard and cleanliness. "Well its not like we had time ta rest and cleanup now is it?" Durgan stomps off and before he even thinks about it, guzzles down a whole glass of the iced tea. "Well, it could be worse I guess..." He fills another glass, then joins the rest of the group on the defendants bench.
Durgan sits and fusses with his beard while the bailiff opens the trial. He cleans it, gets a brush out of his haversack and brushes it, and continues to fuss over it while the Bailiff speaks. He tries not to make too much noise, but it's hard to concentrate when the beard is not clean.
Kazak Stonewall.Ac 36 Hp 203/212) Wednesday June 2nd, 2010 8:22:23 PM
The dwarven warrior just sits quietly ...... sipping his ice tea ...... but smiles as Xenia speaks up .....
" well said girl "
Kazak then surveys those who will sit in judgement of them .....looking for a reaction and response ......
Firn'gaer HP: 119; AC20 (T15); Arcane Sight, Detect Magic, See Invisibility, Read Magic, SR18 Wednesday June 2nd, 2010 8:56:52 PM
Firn'gaer sits waiting the response to Xenia's request. What would he say in his own defense. While they are names the Children of Chaos, the group was really more of a balance keeper in the Wold. They prevented one side from gaining too much influence and therefore tip the scales of balance to far out of control.
They had stopped Chaos incarnate, the Destroyer, from being reborn. That should buy them points with all sides.
They mended the war, or helped prevent a full scale war between the elves and dwarves. This should buy points with the good judges, but not so much with the devils.
And while it was an attack against the formorian, they prevented the expantionist subjugation by the formorians. This would again gain them some ground with the good faction, but not with the evil faction.
They did start the most recent Great Migration, but with out it, the Southern Continent would have been torn asunder. That would get points.
And now they are moving to put an end once and for all the Migration of the Southern Continent and end the Continent from spinning out of control, which threatens all of the Wold.
There should be enough to balance the scales in their favor.
Firn'gaer ponders theses things while the judges of the Court of Law decides Xenia's request.
No Post Tonight (DM JohnP) Wednesday June 2nd, 2010 10:59:26 PM
Sorry .... too beat after driving today.
Rash Wednesday June 2nd, 2010 11:08:46 PM
Rash elbows Peerimus in the ribs and says though the tattoos, "Hey this isn't the time to get quiet. Speak up!"
Xenia (AC33/ HP103/103) d20+12=19 ; Thursday June 3rd, 2010 11:01:28 AM
It's a simple question. And, as questions go, it's not really too tremendously important. That is to say, the answer is not too tremendously important. What is important, is the response. The response is what will be telling. Will the Judge Guys provide an explanation with their answer? Even a short simple accompanying sentence, regardless of acceptance or denial, might provide some clue as to how the Chaos Guys might be received by these various ... well ... folks who sit in judgement.
How are the various Judge Guys reacting to the fact of an alternate option in and of itself? The eyes of the dark rogue miss little. But, the faces on the Platform are alien. Bugs, Mechas, malformed Demon faces, all with expressions that she is unused to. These folks would be hard to read, Xenia thinks to herself. Even if they were not trying, in some way, to mask the way in which they think.
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Diplomacy 27 Sense Motive 19
Craft Composite Shortbow +2STR (Value 225 gp / Weekly DC 2250 / Daily DC 22500) Today's Progress Roll 35*30 = 1,050 Total Progress 7,830/22500 - 35% Complete
Durgan Stonewall (AC 38; HP 270/270) Thursday June 3rd, 2010 6:40:34 PM
Durgan fidgets in his seat. He looks at his empty glass of iced tea, then at the table where there is more. He wants to go and get some, but it seems like everyone is waiting for Peerimus to say something. So he just waits and wonders if it would be rude to ask if the tea could be replaced with some nice cool mountainhome stout ale.
Peerimus AC 34 HP 137/137 and Yorrick AC 42 HP 160/160 Thursday June 3rd, 2010 7:29:42 PM
Peerimus sits quietly. Rash answers that he will speak for the group. Peerimus remains still There it is Xenia stands up, Peerimus settles back and folds his arms. He would like to know the answer as well. He had a few other questions, more of a simple delay really to help fully get his mind around everything. One troubling aspect was that the Baliff had indicated little time would pass uon the Wold. So that very well could mean 'noon' would not be showing up anytime soon. Peerimus would wait to see if the Court of Law would allow each to speak and he quietly whispers his intent through the Tattoo
Matters of Procedure (DM JohnP) Thursday June 3rd, 2010 11:04:20 PM
The Bailiff considers Xenia's request before looking to the formian. After a moment, the insectoid outsider shrugs and looks down at a small scroll held in a second claw. The Bailiff turns back to the prisoners' docket and speaks to Xenia.
"You companions have indicated that your speaker would be the one known as Peerimus. However, while it is rarely down, there is no rule preventing each of you from speaking for yourselves. It is merely uncommon."
The others are either prompting Peerimus to speak, or encouraging Xenia. Except for Firn'gaer, who seems to be mentally cataloguing all that the Children of Chaos have done.
The Bailiff's response may give the Children of Chaos or make them reconsider their legal tactics in the Court. Acknowledging this, the Bailiff asks another question.
"Do you have any other questions before we move to the Trial of Nature?"
Kazak Stonewall.Ac 36 Hp 203/212) Thursday June 3rd, 2010 11:07:43 PM
The younger dwarf .... sips his ice tea ......waiting ...... waiting ...... ;-) at the edge of his seat ......
" i hope dey gonna say something ..... maybe dis is a test ....or something ..... dem judges just staring at us .... waiting to see what we do or say .... ... Durgan might have a point ... an ale would be tempting " muses Kazak as he eyes the judges ... ;-)
Rash Thursday June 3rd, 2010 11:48:47 PM
Rash stands and asks the Bailiff, "I do have a question on procedure. Actually a couple of questions. The first is; Do we get any kind of representation or an advocate to help us present our case? While I am confident we will be able to justify our actions and our intent, we might not do it in accordance to the laws and customs of the court and advice on that matter would be most welcome.
My second question is on the nature of the trial. What is the trial of nature and the trial of intent? It is difficult to defend ourselves if we don't understand the trial in itself.
Finally, I would like to know what were the specific actions that brought us to your attention in the first place? You mention we are bringing disharmony to the Wold and upsetting the balance dictated by the Jericho at the beginning of the Wold. What was the balance? Are his wishes written down anywhere?"
Rash bows and sits waiting for the answers hoping that the more intelligent of the group will take those answers and run with them. She takes a sip of her tea hoping it isn't going to be her last drink she ever has.
Domain give Rash automatic freedom of movement as per spell indicates domain spell
Zero: Read Magic, Create Water, Detect Magic, Light, Purify Food and Drink, Detect Poison First:Longstrider* Shield of Faith x 2, Command, Endure Elements, Comprehend Languages, Protection from Evil, Divine favor x 2 Second:Spiritual Hammer* Restoration Lesser x 2, Delay Poison, Hold Person, Resist Energy, Aid, Augury Third:Fly*, Invisibility Purge, Magical Vestment x 2, Prayer, Searing light, Remove blindness/deafness, Water breathing Fourth:Dimension Door*, Divine Power, Restoration, Sending, Dismissal, Magic Weapon Greater, Freedom of Movement Fifth: Teleport*, Righteous Might, Spell Resistance, True Seeing, Flame Strike, Commune, Disrupting Weapon, Dispel Law Sixth:Blade Barrier* Heal x2, Dispel Magic Greater x 2 Seventh: Greater teleport*, Holy Word, Empowered cure light mass, Dictum, Restoration greater Eighth: Phase door* Summon Monster 8, Holy Aura, Spell Immunity Greater, Discern Location Ninth: Astral Projection* Miracle, x2 Heal mass, (third miracle is in spell staff which is kept in haversack
Common tactics for spells: Both magical vestments spells along with Longstrider will be cast using the Karma prayer bead and the lesser extend rod. The greater Magic Weapon spell will be cast with the normal extend rod and Karma bead. This spells will last 42 hours before they need to be recast. Endure elements is also cast at night as well and lasts 24 hours
Contingency: (Cast with Miracle spell) When I cast my divine power spell, righteous might is automatically cast. Spells staff (cast with Miracle) holds a miracle spell in it. Twice a day Rash can cast invisibility from the tattoo.
Xenia (AC33/ HP103/103) Friday June 4th, 2010 10:59:29 AM
The black-clad, dark-skinned girl remains standing as the Ooglie Ant Guy replies to her question. Her face is impassive - watchful, if any emotion were to be used to describe it. Her hands remain concealed within the new black robe that drapes her entire body. She stands like a dark tower topped by her fall of fire-red hair.
The answer from the Ooglie is fair, even, balanced. Especially when you consider that the group that this Ooglie is judging on has just slaughtered up a bunch of his (her? its?) fellow Ooglians.
Xenia considers the second question asked by the Angel Bailiff Guy, letting Momma Rash's responses sink in before raising her own voice.
"I think I might be able to help with some of those questions" Xenia begins, turning to Momma Rash. Then, back to the assembled judges on the Platform, "Please correct me if I'm wrong. The Trial of Nature, or so I would guess, is designed to determine our basic nature. That is to say, how we are predisposed to act and whether that predisposition might be harmful to the balance or not. Good so far? And, because, all creatures with the spark of the divine have, through their wisdom and intelligence, the ability to surmount their own nature, the Trial of Intent is designed to examine our intentions and whether they correct for our nature and/or work for the greater balance."
"The question that I would ask is not what these two trials are, but how you go about them. Can you get the answers you want from us by asking questions? Or will you need to see us act in some sort of way before you can reach your judgement?"
"I would also like to know about the consequences," Xenia asks. "What happens to us if you don't like ... if you find our nature and our intent lacking? The reason that I ask is because we are trying to restore balance to the Wold just as you are. We've been told what we need to do, and the balance is hanging on whether we get to it or not. If I knew that things ... that this Out Of Control Migration thing was going to get fixed by *someone* I could ... I guess I could accept any verdict you handed down."
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Craft Composite Shortbow +2STR (Value 225 gp / Weekly DC 2250 / Daily DC 22500) Today's Progress Roll 35*30 = 1,050 Total Progress 7,830/22500 - 35% Complete
Kazak Stonewall.Ac 36 Hp 203/212) Friday June 4th, 2010 11:07:41 PM
Kazak was ready to add his voice to the conversation ..... but many of his questions were just asked ..... " dat should get der toungues a wagging " ...... growls the dwarf quietly ....
Before the First Test (DM JohnP) Sunday June 6th, 2010 10:42:56 PM
Kazak sits quietly, ignoring the Bailiff's questions and hoping that the trial goes quickly. Besides, he knows that one, or more, of his companions will surely have questions. And they do not disappoint, as the Bailiff listens patiently to Rash's and Xenia' questions. Once they have finished, the judges seem to be becoming slightly impatient but the Bailiff takes the time to respond to Rash's questions.
"Those beign tried by the Court of Law rarely need a representative or an advocate. As stated, the Court examines the nature and intent of your actions and the only persons who can truly interpret your actions are you, yourselves. If you should require guidance on the rules and procedures of the Court, that is part of my duty to the Court."
"Your companion is correct about the Trial of Nature. It is simply a magical examination. You do, of course, have to permit such examination. The Court interprets refusal to follow Court procedure as an indication of chaotic influence."
"She is also correct about the Trial of Intent. The Chronicles, wherein all matters that affect the Balance of the Wold are recorded, are examined to review your actions in the past. Again, you may choose whether to participate."
Turning to fully face Xenia, the Bailiff answers the rogue's final question. "The Court will act to repair the Balance, if need be. Again, you may choose to submit to the Court's judgement. If you do not, I and my assistants are responsible for enforcement of the judgements of the Court."
Now, to begin. Do you submit to the Test of Nature?"
Xenia (AC33/ HP103/103) Sunday June 6th, 2010 11:03:38 PM
Looks like the questions have all been good and 'splained. Things are gonna be what they're gonna be, no matter what.
There ain't gonna be much doubt as to what they're gonna find when they look into her heart. She goes the way she thinks is best, and if that's not the way the rules say, then the rules are wrong.
That's not to say that she's always been right. There have been time when she's chosen wrong, and at those times she's regretted it. Being all jealous of that Faddle girl. Punching Prillana. Singing down the Fey King. Lots of stuff to regret.
But if there's one thing her Da taught her, if there's one thing she learned growing up with a drow face, it's that you might maybe regret the things that you do, but don't regret the things that you are.
"I submit." Xenia turns to the Bailiff. "I, Alexandria Merryman Next, submit to the Test of Nature."
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Craft Composite Shortbow +2STR (Value 225 gp / Weekly DC 2250 / Daily DC 22500) Today's Progress Roll 35*30 = 1,050 Total Progress 7,830/22500 - 35% Complete
Rash Monday June 7th, 2010 12:06:52 AM
Rash also stands and says, "I too will submit to your tests. Lets get this over with so we can get back to stopping the migration."
Torgon AC: 34 HP : 180/180 Monday June 7th, 2010 7:32:47 AM
Torgon tries to determine if each individual should submit, or if a group response was required. The minotaur is now confused as to whether we are being tried and acting as individuals, or as a group. Either way, his intent was good, and his nature while not lawful is not chaotic either. Torgon will wait to see which is which, but he will submit to the tests.
Firn'gaer HP: 119; AC20 (T15); Arcane Sight, Detect Magic, See Invisibility, Read Magic, SR18 Monday June 7th, 2010 2:23:54 PM
"I do not submit to any test of my nature." He says calmly. "There is not a member among us who does not have some level of chaotic influences just as we also have lawful influences. It is precisely because we are from the Wold and not any planes of Law or Chaos that these forces exist in us. It is an unfair test that will always find some level of influence that you do not agree. Your test is a slippery slope that zealots have used for as long as there have been the labels of chaos or law or good or evil. Men will always find another criteria to judge or persecute those who disagree with your ways. Though you are not Men, you are no less susceptible to this zealousness as we have recently seen."
Peerimus AC 34 HP 137/137 and Yorrick AC 42 HP 160/160 Monday June 7th, 2010 7:28:20 PM
Peerimus wrinkles his nose. Nature and Intent, one of being and the other of action or desire. they were not the first group to ever follow the powers of the South and take on the Mantle of the forces of Chaos. they were also not the first group to ever ring the Bell or start the Great Migration. Peerimus leans into Firngaer, "Has Lhari ever heard of any Chaos Champions before us being hauled before the Court of Law?"
Something had to be different and the Druid suspected he knew what it was and it did not bode well for the group. Peerimus did not understand the inner workings of Magic. Father and Mother granted him the powers and spells he asked for, but for as to the study of SpellCraft or the Arcane, he knew only what was generally Common Knowledge and most of that information was likely incorrect. All that though, and listening to Firngaer certainly was a well laid out thought against submission to the spell, he believed the 'simple spell must be sort sort of detection and hopefully his definition of simple was the same as thiers and thus a weak spell. If that were true, Firngaer's possible outcome and interpretation seemed unlikely. The basic spells were terribly limited and such broader implications, such as using such a spell to be able to determine if the subject was from the outer planes seemed unlikely. So why the hesitation on his part. The answer was very simple, his implicit trust in Firngaers vast almost Powerlike comprehension of all things magic. Xenia, Rash and Torgon were in, Firngaer was out. Leaving himself Durgan and Kazak.
Peerimus spins over some of the foreseeable outcomes of saying no, but instead of delving that chasm to deeply, he takes another approach. He would confirm his suspisions of the spell "Firngaer, if it is a simple detection spell, could it really relay such complex information?" Peerimus asks the Baliff, "Before submitting to any spell voluntarily I have to proceed with caution and ask that the spell be indentified, that we are allowed to monitor its casting and that if the identified spell is not cast that any results be null and void." The druid was almost certain as to the response and outcome, but the statkes were too high.
Durgan Stonewall (AC 38; HP 270/270) Monday June 7th, 2010 9:43:44 PM
"What he said." Durgan points a thumb in Peerimus' direction. The dwarf couldn't argue about being cautious whenever new and strange magics were involved. Probably wouldn't be much worse than teleporting though. Ugh. That one always made him nauseous.
Kazak Stonewall.Ac 36 Hp 203/212) Monday June 7th, 2010 10:54:02 PM
The dwarf smiles as the judges patience seems to be wearing thin ..... " they wanted to see are true nature .... guess they're gettin a good peek at it now .... hopefully not to chaotic for them "
Standing up ..... "Sir Bailiff .... i'm not sure about submitting to dis here tests ...without able to state our side .... sorta hard to get judged by a group of lawful persons .... who have different veiws about what da balance and nature of things are ......i can atest dat we have fought to keep da balance .... we have put our lives in da balance many times ... even recently wit some of your court personal .... i know things seem outa whack right now but we're in da middle of trying to put things right again .... might not be exactly as things were ... to say da least .... but we aim to do what we need to do ..to make sure dat da wold is put back in balance ..... even if we need to teamup to get it done ....stopping dis here great migration should be da first thing we do ...."
Taking his seat again .... he reaches for his glass of iced tea ..... and waits ......
Firn'gaer HP: 119; AC20 (T15); Arcane Sight, Detect Magic, See Invisibility, Read Magic, SR18 Monday June 7th, 2010 11:04:55 PM
[Illegal second post]
"Peerimus, if it were a simple detect spell, then they would have already cast it and would not need to ask our permission. This test would become pointless. I believe that what they ask is something more." He responds through the tattoo.
The Test of Nature - First (DM JohnP) Monday June 7th, 2010 11:32:18 PM
When Xenia agrees to the Test of Nature, the Bailiff gestures and two wizened humanoids shuffle forward from the gallery. Each prepares to cast spells that Firn'gaer and all of the others recognize as Detect Chaos and Detect Law. Once the spells are cast, the two humanoids study Xenia for a minute or more before speaking.
"The one known as Alexandria Merryman Next is inclined towards Chaos. And she bears the mark of the Powers of Chaos."
Since Rash and Torgon have both also submitted, the two humanoids turn to examine the human cleric and the minotaur.
"The human known as Rash Trinka Treblin one is inclined towards Law, but she also bears the mark of Chaos."
"The minotaur known as Torgon is inclined to neither Law nor Chaos, but does bear the mark of Choas.
The humanoids then wait patiently until directed to examine their next subject.
The Bailiff turns to the other members of the Children of Chaos who have not submitted to the Test of Nature.
"You have seen what is involved. It is a test of your nature, your being. No different than being counted as human, dwarf, minotaur or any other race. And it is not something that requires debate or representation. And, if you are concerned about the potential misuse of the spell, it is freely granted by many Powers and Gods of the Wold and Testing, not to mention those who study the arcane arts. And the Court of Law is bound by its own rules concerning the use and misuse of divinatory magics."
Firn'gaer HP: 119; AC20 (T15); Arcane Sight, Detect Magic, See Invisibility, Read Magic, SR18 Tuesday June 8th, 2010 10:40:08 AM
Firn'gaer is still very skeptical. "Now I don't understand. You previously convicted us with a sentence of death. And now you're saying that the trial really involves only minor divination magic cast upon us to determine our nature and intent."
"So what you are saying, by your words and acts of your underlings, is that because we were not available for magic that can be used by most apprentices that we were assaulted with the threat of death and Peerimus's grove and his guardians were greatly damaged or injured?"
"I would think that Jericho in his vast wisdom would have granted his servants of Law the ability to use such simple investigative techniques prior to trial in order to ensure that those that are brought before this Court were truly worthy of this Court's time and before the proceeding reached the state that they have reached."
"What is really involved in these trials? We do not have time for this when the Wold is in peril. We need passage to the Valley of Ahl, and that passage lies through this Court. Let us do what it is that needs to be done in order to prevent the Southern Continent from migrating out of control and threaten the entire of the Wold. You want to judge me after that then so be it."
Xenia (AC33/ HP103/103) Tuesday June 8th, 2010 11:49:15 AM
Xenia's green eyes slide sidelong in Fernie's direction. She draws a breath, sighs it out, and then she seats herself on the long hard bench.
Sure. Everything he's said is right and reasonable. 'Specially from the perspective of the Chaos Guys. But it all reminds her of one time visiting the City Office with her Da. In the City Office of Dirt City all petitioners gotta wait in a square marked off by a red ribbon or tape. Any petitioner who gets irate and tries to break through, go under or otherwise, step out of the square can be legally killed down or otherwise beat up and thrown out. At the very least, they lose their place in line.
There are ways of cutting through the red tape, her Da explained while they waited there amidst the crowd of waiting petitioners. Gifts of gold and such would do the trick. But, for the job he'd been hired to do that particular day, there was no budget for bribes. Some days, her Da explained to the then small dark girl, you just had to put up with the red tape.
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Craft Composite Shortbow +2STR (Value 225 gp / Weekly DC 2250 / Daily DC 22500) Today's Progress Roll 35*30 = 1,050 Total Progress 7,830/22500 - 35% Complete
Durgan Stonewall (AC 38; HP 270/270) Tuesday June 8th, 2010 4:10:45 PM
"Meh. It doesn't look so bad. Ok go ahead and check me next."
Torgon AC: 34 HP : 180/180 Tuesday June 8th, 2010 7:20:09 PM
Torgon sits patiently, content to let himself be judged. To him, he shall always be judged, but by the Gods, not machines and devils and others. Should they find him guilty and try and punish him, then he shall go down in battle, to be judged by those with real authority. To Torgon, this is simply a means to find their way to the valley of Ahl. Should it become more, then he shall stand before The Gods for what he has done, and for what he has failed to do.
Rash Tuesday June 8th, 2010 7:32:28 PM
Rash leans over and places an hand on Firn'gaer's arm and says, "Peace brother, your right to be concerned and aggravated but trust in the powers. They told me that going through this would be a good thing. Besides, do you have a way to get us home? What plane are we even on? I don't think losing our cool will do us a service here. I don't want to get into a fight with these folks. I will if they tell me they are going to execute us but I don't think that will happen. Our motives are pure and I trust the goodly folk on the tribunal will see that."
Peerimus AC 34 HP 137/137 and Yorrick AC 42 HP 160/160 Tuesday June 8th, 2010 7:58:30 PM
Peerimus recieved the answer and information he expected and it worked for him, though the point Firngaer raised were pretty reasonable in his mind. Then again, he was not an immortal being of abslute law. Order and Rule. The beurucrats of Hook City could not hold a match to these guys he thought. Through the Court of Law indeed. Peerimus suspected through was not a physical route. The last several years seemed to be about multiple meaing wordds, he should proabably have foreseen this, in a way he did he supposed. A minor debate to be had internally. "I submit to the Test." he says aloud.
Why not simply probe through a divinational font? Submission, conceit of Power and authority likely
Kazak Stonewall.Ac 36 Hp 203/212) Tuesday June 8th, 2010 8:44:16 PM
"Well alright .... it didnt seem to be dat terrible ... so i suppose i can go along with dis thing ..... so yes ... i also sumbit to da test " ..... growls the dwarf
The Test of Nature - Second (DM JohnP) Tuesday June 8th, 2010 10:29:58 PM
The magical examinations continue as the two wizened humanoids examine Durgan, Peerimus and Kazak in turn.
"The dwarf known as Durgan Stonewall is inclined towards Law and does not bear the mark of Chaos."
"The human Peerimus is inclined to neither Law nor Chaos. He is marked by Chaos, though."
"The dwarf known as Kazak Stonewall is also not inclined to either Law or Chaos but also bears the mark of Chaos."
The two humanoids stand ready for any word or gesture from the Bailiff directing them to continue their examinations.
The Bailiff speaks directly to Firn'gaer, "You are correct in many ways. Your influence and influences have already been examined. The Trial of Nature examines you in more detail and, specifically, determines which, if any, of you have accepted the mark of Chaos."
"And I apologize if I have failed to already tell you that the Court exists outside of the Material Plane of the Wold. When the Trial is concluded, you will be returned and no time should have passed."
"So, will you participate in the Trial of Nature? Or not, and be considered like your companion Xenia?"
Xenia (AC33/ HP103/103) Tuesday June 8th, 2010 10:49:02 PM
Everyone's life is their own. Everyone's gotta choose the way they wanna live, 'cause, in the end, it's them what's gotta live it.
Xenia sits quietly on the edge of the hard stone bench without comment. It's the Judge Guys that she watches more than anything else, and their reactions, as Fernie makes known how he's gonna go on this.
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Craft Composite Shortbow +2STR (Value 225 gp / Weekly DC 2250 / Daily DC 22500) Today's Progress Roll 35*30 = 1,050 Total Progress 7,830/22500 - 35% Complete
Firn'gaer HP: 119; AC20 (T15); Arcane Sight, Detect Magic, See Invisibility, Read Magic, SR18 Tuesday June 8th, 2010 11:12:22 PM
"I state my objection for the record, but I will participate in this trial." He says.
Torgon AC: 34 HP : 180/180 Wednesday June 9th, 2010 1:42:28 PM
Torgon watches as the trial continues.
Rash Wednesday June 9th, 2010 7:46:53 PM
Rash just sits and waits for the trial to finish, wondering what they will do if they are judged guilty.
Durgan Stonewall (AC 38; HP 270/270) Wednesday June 9th, 2010 10:11:27 PM
Durgan nods and accepts the trial of nature. "Huh. I never accepted that durned tattoo. I never wanted it, and I'm glad it's gone. But I stand with these people who are like family to me, and if need be I will wear that tattoo again and wear it proudly to stand with them through the Migration or whatever else comes our way."
The dwarf sits and waits to see what comes next.
Peerimus AC 34 HP 137/137 and Yorrick AC 42 HP 160/160 d20+19=34 ; Wednesday June 9th, 2010 10:27:59 PM
Accepted, indeed most of them considered it a curse and all of them were completely at the mercy of the tattoo until very recently.
Peerimus stands and speaks clrealy so as to be heard by all "I must correct the Court on the matter of Acceptence of the marks of the Souther Powers, what you refer to as a Mark of Chaos. Until less than a month ago on the Material Plane not a single member of those that stand before this court had any determination in the matter of being marked. Most considered the mark a curse, I may be the only one of our group who has ever accepted the mark and thus am the only one who could be judged with the mark as any evidence whatsoever." [Diplomacy 34]
The Test of Nature - Second (DM JohnP) Wednesday June 9th, 2010 11:10:36 PM
The two humanoids examine Firn'gaer and make their pronouncement.
"The human known as Firn'gaer Gyddyn is inclined to neither Law nor Chaos. He does bear the mark of Chaos."
After completing their duties, the huanoids return back to a bench within the gallery in case their services are required again.
The Bailiff steps forward to address both the Children of Chaos and the judges in their seats at the front of the Court.
"The tally of the Nature of this group is as follows: One is inclined towards Chaos, two towards Law and four towards neither Chaos nor Law. Six bear the mark of Chaos. By my tally, that is seven for Chaos, two for Law and four for neither."
"Prepare for the findings of the Judges."
The Bailiff steps back towards the prisoners' box as the judges glance towards one another. If they are communicating, they are using some magical means that none of the Children of Chaos can detect. Finally, the Oglian begins speaking in a raspy, clicking voice.
"Children of Chaos <click> Your Nature has been found to be Chaotic <click> <click> <click>
Not unexpected <click> Less than expected <click> <click> <click>
Now Trial of Intent <click> Chronicleer will recite actions choice made to increase Chaos in Wold <click> You may respond <click> <click> <click>
The Bailiff leans over and speaks quietly to the Children of Chaos.
"The Chronicleer will recite a list of actions going back long ago. When he is finished, you may respond as you think best."
"If you are found to have to have intended to increase Chaos in the Wold in this Test, the Court will rule against you to redress the balance of Chaos and Law in the Wold."
"If you can show that you have increased Law in the Wold or can explain your actions as not increasing Chaos, the Trial will be even. In that event, the Judges may devise another test suited to your abilities."
"Are you prepared?"
Xenia (AC33/ HP103/103) Thursday June 10th, 2010 10:30:24 AM
Like we got any other choice? Like, if we said that we wanted a few days to gather up documents and stories from, like, Holly or Niobe in Hook City, or even find weerdo elfie Trace to ask them 'bout old stories and such, would they even let us? So what do they mean <i>prepared</i>? Prepared like in, <i>'Get ready, I'm about to stick this dagger in your gut.'</i> kinda prepared.
So go the thoughts of the dark rogue.
None of these thoughts, however, does she express out loud. This, ultimately, is a battle after all. It's a different sort of battle. This is a battle of will and identity. On their side, the thing is to make the folks in the Defender's Box into what they think they should be. The Defender Guys, on the other hand, gotta show that even they as themselves are more than what the other guys are making them out to be.
Anyone can be anything they want, given enough will, enough desire, and a little luck. Quietly on the bench, Xenia sits intent on proving such. Still and straight backed, the dark girl perches at the edge of the seat with her hands folded in her lap. "I'm ready," she says. That is all that she says.
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Craft Composite Shortbow +2STR (Value 225 gp / Weekly DC 2250 / Daily DC 22500) Today's Progress Roll 35*30 = 1,050 Total Progress 7,830/22500 - 35% Complete
Durgan Stonewall (AC 38; HP 270/270) Thursday June 10th, 2010 6:07:22 PM
Durgan smiles and nods his head. "I'm always ready. Let's get this show goin eh?"
Rash Thursday June 10th, 2010 8:22:22 PM
"I am ready. Let's get this trial done so we can go on with our business. We have a Wold to save."
Peerimus AC 34 HP 137/137 and Yorrick AC 42 HP 160/160 Thursday June 10th, 2010 10:24:58 PM Increased Law in the Wold hardly a worthy goal and not one that any of the heroes that had come and gone save a few would hold in high esteem. Peerimus finds his brow furrowing and his feelings leaning towards a dislike and trust of this Court of Law. Extraplanar beings meddling in the affairs and ways of a Wold in which they did not belong and had no stake. Always their lives were forged in the flame of Law and Chaos, Change and Order. Of course they were agents of Change, that was what it was to be mortal. Thier very nature was about change. Peerimus notes the change over Xenia, his thoughts turn to what he knew of the dark woman and he suspected he knew to the direction her thoughts were aimed. Peerimus nods slightly in her direction, he believed he understood , insight was a blessing he carried from Mother. Peerimus too, leans back and straightens, what would be would be and little he could do at this point would matter. "Continue." he states plainly The Court had rules, they would be given opportunity to respond, much depended on how far back this would go. Peerimus's own mind stretched back to when he first came to the gates of Heranmar. The group had just slain a dragon, thier first and would soon be heading into a deep and twisted wood of evil. It was a journey of horrors that nealy cost him and Yorrick thier lives. Koshe Marr and the pursuit of the itmes of Fate to combat the Detroyer, Ice Vien and the mad Archmage, the assassins, the death about Heranmar, the Crypt, Quinn, the Kraken the awakening of the Fey King and the groups decision of repentance. All of if flashed through his mind in vivid detail.
Firn'gaer HP: 119; AC20 (T15); Arcane Sight, Detect Magic, See Invisibility, Read Magic, SR18 Thursday June 10th, 2010 10:28:16 PM
Firn'gaer says nothing and awaits the next test.
The Test of Intent - First (DM JohnP) Thursday June 10th, 2010 11:20:34 PM
The Bailiff speaks once more to the Children of Chaos, "I believe that this is the portion of the Trial that some of you have been awaiting."
The Bailiff walks slowly and steadily towards judges, stopping just before their chairs and then turns towards the gallery and prisoners' box. He motions to one side of the Court, near where the judges entered from, and a kobold clutching a massive scroll scurries forward. Behind it are four strapping half-orcs, two carrying a lectern and two moving a heavy wooden step-stool. The half-rocs place the lectern facing the prisoner's box and then the step-stool behind it. While the furniture is being positioned, the kobold fidgets anxiously. As soon as the half-orcs step back, the kobold climbs the step-stool and places the scroll onto the lectern where the rollers fit into slots on the raised sides. Once it is satisfied, the kobold turns the handles to bring a specific section of the scroll into position.
As it is doing this, an elderly gery-haired humanoid slowly walks forward with the use of a cane. After the kobold is finished, two of the half-orcs move the step-stool back slightly so the humanoid with the cane can get between the stool and the lectern. It seems that this is the Chronicleer, come to read off the past deeds of the Children of Chaos. The Chronicleer leans his cane against the side of the step-stool and carefully sits on the edge of the stool. After clearing his throat several times, the Chronicleer begins to speak in a clear, lovely voice.
"The exploits of the group known as the Children of Chaos are recorded here in the Chronicles. Allow me to finish reading before responding. Address your response to the Court, not to myself."
"Several years ago, a member of the Children of Chaos known as Trace rang the Chaos Bell in the Old Church at Heranmar, creating with all Southern Lights heroes a symbiotic relationship and strengthening Chaos."
"Later, another former member of the Children of Chaos known as Savin renewed the symbiotic relationship with the Bell for the group while in the Old Chuch of Heranmar."
"Near that time, the Children of Chaos allowed Ebyron's Avatar, the Fey King, to live, strengthening Chaos."
"More recently, the Children of Chaos battled and defeated an agent of Law, a Pit Fiend, and marring the Symbol of Binding that would have kept Gateway Downs and Dre Moria out of the Great Migration."
"The Children of Chaos destroyed the Magic Machine on the Hook City Star Mages Guild, also destroying the Star Mages Guild who were a powerful group of Law."
"The Children of Chaos defeated the organizational plans of a Northern Power; Ga'al; who would have brought order and an end to the Great Migrations of the Southern Continent."
"The Children of Chaos killed an Oglian Queen and stole the Cube of Law; the last bastion against Chaos in the Southern Continent."
"The Children of Chaos deliberately and with great premeditation, initiated the greatest Chaotic event of the Era; the Great Migration."
"These are the most significant actions promoting Chaos in the Southern Continent and the Wold."
Torgon AC: 34 HP : 180/180 Friday June 11th, 2010 8:51:40 AM
Torgon sits quietly, planning on letting Peerimus do the talking. Although he was only present for the last two, it would likely not matter to agents of law, and he would stand or fall with his friends. As it should be.
Xenia (AC33/ HP103/103) Friday June 11th, 2010 10:41:47 AM
So ... this is what the Chaos Guys have been up to. And it sounds like Weerdo Elfie Trace is the one what started everything. Doesn't that just figure. Too bad he's not here to answer for it. But, then again - recalling the impulsive hot headed elf - maybe, all things considered, better that he's not.
Them Chaos Guys showed up in Floating City just after the Fey King got sung down. All of them, the Crimson Shields and the Chaos Guys were all there in the Giggling Ghost when the vines and the orcworts and such attacked. But Ebyron's Avatar? They did that? What was that?
Maybe she could ask. Later. If there is going to be a later.
"Excuse me." Xenia rises. "I've been personal witness to these events described by your ... by your Elder Speaker," she says, her face turned up toward the panel of judges on the platform, "only since the events described at the tower of the Star Mages' Guild. I cannot speak to events before that, but it has always been my understanding that the goal of our actions were to preserve the same balance that you say that you're working for. For example, the ...er ... <i>Power</i> Ga'al that you mention, has a reputation in the North for enslaving folks against their will. It's a well known fact in the North where I'm from, that unless there's resistance against Ga'al, his Seeds will take over everything, enslaving everyone, and disrupting the balance."
"It was this same fear of being overrun by your forces of Law that caused us to move against the Oglian Queen. We even tried to speak to them and come up with some sort of compromise, but they were having none of it."
"I'm not saying that we have perfect knowledge of what's best for the balance. We work with that we know, and we work with the idea of holding to this balance. It's hard to be perfect, and to keep everything maintained perfect. But those have been the intentions of this group the Children of Chaos as far as I've been able to see."
"Everyone makes mistakes. No one comes out perfect. As an example of this, I might point out that you have listed the events out of order. Our confrontation with the Oglian Queen came after the initiation of the Great Migration not before. Listing things in that order distorts the truth. It gives the impression that it was possibly a prelude to the Great Migration when the exact opposite is true."
"Our confrontation with the Oglian Queen was, in fact, a step on our path towards the realization that the Great Migration had gone too far, and that we needed to stop it to bring things back into balance, a thing that we are trying to do right now. Being here right now is a part of this process, we hope. Participating willingly in your court, we are hoping, will help bring this about."
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Craft Composite Shortbow +2STR (Value 225 gp / Weekly DC 2250 / Daily DC 22500) Today's Progress Roll 35*30 = 1,050 Total Progress 7,830/22500 - 35% Complete
Durgan Stonewall (AC 38; HP 270/270) Friday June 11th, 2010 10:15:43 PM
Durgan spews ice tea all over Kazak as he sputters at the the accusations. "Now wait just a durned minute. We didn't blow up the Star Mages Tower, the fool wizard did that himself with his goofy magic machine." He starts mumbling about wizards, but calms himself down. "Tell them Peerimus. Tell them how that stuff happened while we was tryin ta help people. Humph."
Durgan stomps off the seats and gets himself some more tea. "I think I'm gonna need sumthin stronger."
Peerimus AC 34 HP 137/137 and Yorrick AC 42 HP 160/160 d20+19=30 ; d20+8=15 ; Friday June 11th, 2010 10:18:24 PM How very precisely incorrect that just was Peerimus fidgets and he feels his blood rising. he supresses the urge to stand and deliver a screaming tirade of anger at the judgemental and nHrrow sighted being before him. In front of him Yorrick stirs and lifts his great head, sensing his greatest friends uneasiness and urge to fight. The movement helps the druid recall where he is and the stakes involved. A deep breath helps settle him. Peerimus stands. "The number of errors in the accounts are staggering, but we can address them in a moment. What was failed to be listed was that The Children of Chaos preserved the balance by thwarting the detroyer and using one of the great artifacts obtained to ressurect its essence. It was also omitted that the giants and Winter wolves at the border of Heranmar were not destroyed, but a truce bartered instead. Or that a portal to Koshe Marr was sealed preventing the death and Chaos that land would have brought to the Wold. Or that the war between elves and dwarves was prevented. Or that the vampire Quentin and his like were destroyed. Or that The Children of Choas choose life over death of the Fey King so that he could repent and restore the balance between civilization and nature."
Peerimus then continues, "On the mater of the many half truths presented as fact, there is the order of events as mentioned by Xenia. The Star Mage Tower was not destroyed by us but by the workings of the head master and an uncontrollable experiment. Ga'al sought to disrupt the balance of life and death, perhaps the greatest balance that must be maintained and therefore we restored the balance of the entire Wold with his defeat. The migration was the end result, it had not begun as was read. It is also grossly inaccurate to state that we destroyed the Star Mages Guild. As stated earlier, we destroyed a single man, with the assistance of many of the mages of the Star Mages Guild, not the Guild. Our actions preserved the guild members and thus ensured the continued existance of the guild. it was also not stated that a member of the Children of Chaos called into being a group of Choas within Hook City, a bastion of law and thus swung the balance of that place more in line."
Peerimus feels he could continue, but at this point he does not wish to diminish what he has already said and instead returns to his seat to weigh the affect of his words on those gathered. [Diplomacy 30 Sense Motive 15]
Kazak Stonewall.Ac 36 Hp 203/212) Friday June 11th, 2010 10:35:23 PM
Standing quickly as he is splattered with iced tea by Durgan ;-) ....." Grrr .... it all seems abit one sided ....just one accusation afta another ..... totally biased ....."
" Da destruction of da so called magic machine we did to help da starmages guild .... dey were being help prisonor by da mad magicman .... he ursurped control of da starmages guild ....he changed da balance in Hook City ... or was trying to till we stepped in and halted it .... we didnt expect da magic machine to explode and bring down da tower .... but dats gotta be on da mad magicman .... he knew its power and what could happen ... and he did it anyway ....if he was an agent of Law ... den its his responsibility to ensure da balance ... not ursurp it .. "
" Wit da Oglian Invasion of da south ....they enslaved da peoples of da towns ... we freed da townsfolk from da grip of slavery .....we defend da region to keep da balance ..... if dey were allowed to take over and control da whole region den it changes da balance ..... "
"So you see my whole point of our actions have been to try and keep da balance ..... as best we could .... yeah it was somehwat haphazard or Chaotic as you like to call it but ....we helped da folks of da region ....our inent .... my intent is stablize .... da great migration ....to bring some peace back to da southern continent ..... so people can fufill dey dreams and raise der famliies ...."
"Yeah da great migration has gotten outta control .... we might need some help wit dat ....so either help us ... ot let us git back to trying to end it .... "
Kazak ..... remains standing fir a few moments ...... then sits back down .....
Rash Friday June 11th, 2010 10:42:41 PM
Rash also rises and calmly says, "While we are marked as servants of Chaos, we have mainly tried to keep the balance of Law and Chaos from running amock. Chaos was first but the Law seems to be just as intent to dominate. We also strive to control unchecked evil though I doubt that that is this courts concern. I ask that you look truly to our intent and you will find us innocent."
Kazak Stonewall.Ac 36 Hp 203/212) Monday June 14th, 2010 10:48:16 PM
anybody here???
Xenia (AC33/ HP103/103) Monday June 14th, 2010 10:57:36 PM
The rogue slides her eyes to the side. From the corne of her mouth she whispers. "Whachoo mean, Kaz? 'Anyone here?' I'm here. You're here. We're here. The Weerdo Court of Law Guys are all here too. Whachoo talkin' 'bout?"
The Test of Intent - Response (DM JohnP) Monday June 14th, 2010 11:00:53 PM
The judges listen attentively as first Xenia speaks, followed by some of the others. They seem to be compilng the groups responses as they listen. Once everyone finishes speaking, the judges quietly confer for several minutes. Finally, the Oglian that seems to be the head judge speaks.
"You say that you have mitigating circumstances for the opposition to Ga'al. We accept your description of events and that you were working for Balance."
"You explain the circumstances of the destruction of the Star Mages Guild and we accept that as mitigating your support for Chaos."
"We also accept the mitigating circumstances of the death of the Oglian Queen. Further, as you state, your actions were to reduce the influence of Chaos and strengthen Law."
"You, Peerimus, also describe many actions that either strengthen Law, oppose Chaos or explain your actions."
"We are considering all of this. Is there anything more that you can say for your actions? To explain your actions or show how you opposed Chaos?"
Firn'gaer HP: 119; AC20 (T15); Arcane Sight, Detect Magic, See Invisibility, Read Magic, SR18 Monday June 14th, 2010 11:44:05 PM
Firn'gaer speaks. "The death and rebirth of the primal force known as the Destroyer at our hands is the single most act we could have done to oppose Chaos. Our task was to collect artifacts that would allow us, once all brought together, to summon the Destroyer before it could completely awaken to full power. We then defeated it and using one of the artifacts brought it back to life. In doing so, we returned Chaos and Destruction incarnate to its dormant state. In that state, the balance of Law and Chaos were maintained. Had we failed in this task, the Destroyer would have awoken to its full power and destroyed the Wold."
"We now must move with great haste to put an end to the Great Chaos that now affects the Southern Continent. Though, we were pieces in a prophecy put forth long ago, we now have a chance to end the Great Migration once and for all. A chance to end the Chaos, which lives within and is a part the very land itself."
"So judge us and be done with it. I do not fear the Land of Rest. For if we are condemned, who will stand in judgment of this Court as the Chaos of grows until the Wold is destroyed, all while this Court prevented those with the means to end it."
Xenia (AC33/ HP103/103) Tuesday June 15th, 2010 11:49:51 AM
Death and rebirth? Primal force Destroyer? They done some pretty weerdo stuff. All before her time. Their two groups had touched but briefly for that moment in the Giggling Ghost and then had moved on.
Sometimes it's best not to say nothing. Especially in times when you don't know nothing. Xenia remains before the Court of Law, her quiet physical bearing standing in support of Firn'gaer's words.
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Craft Composite Shortbow +2STR (Value 225 gp / Weekly DC 2250 / Daily DC 22500) Today's Progress Roll 35*30 = 1,050 Total Progress 7,830/22500 - 35% Complete
Torgon AC: 34 HP : 180/180 Tuesday June 15th, 2010 3:03:32 PM
Torgon stands, ready to add the very little input that he has to the conversation.
"Most of the events being discussed happened before I joined the group, and have no knowledge of anything that transpired before the final battle with the Oglians. But how I was brought to the group, I would consider a validation of the actions in that conflict."
"My village had just been moved to the area of the Oglians as a result of the great migration. While determining our course of action, I received a vision from the Gods showing me to go to the keep where the battle was engaged, and to join with these Children of Chaos. During this vision, I was marked by The Gods, as the others are also marked."
"Personally, I care little for Chaos or Law as a dominant force. Both have their places, and in my opinion, both are necessary. Anything I do, I do because I feel it is the right thing to do, and all that has been done since I have joined the children is to try and stop the great migration and return some semblance of normalcy to the Wold."
Torgon sits down, having said all he plans on saying, for there is little else he could add.
Durgan Stonewall (AC 38; HP 270/270) Tuesday June 15th, 2010 9:20:15 PM
"We are the Children of Chaos. The chosen champions of the Powers of the southern continent. And it seems to me we spend as much time opposing chaos as supporting it. And we do mean ta end the Migration whether ye like it or not. I guess what I'm sayin is we don't support either chaos or law becoming an absolute power, but aim fer a balance between the two."
"I think I need an ale."
Peerimus AC 34 HP 137/137 and Yorrick AC 42 HP 160/160 Tuesday June 15th, 2010 9:20:59 PM
Peerimus stands again with a nod to his fellow Champions, "Well said all." He then addresses the court, "Our calling is truly that of heroes of the Wold, the champions of those who cannot defend themselves against the great and true evils of the Wold that might destroy them, or enslave thier will or stirp away thier freedom. Our actions are for the betterment of our Lands and everything we have ever done has been guided by that desire. There is nothing I regret in our course adn nothing i would change if given the chance. We have been marked and blessed by the Powers of the South and the those of Chaos, but our actions as we have stated adn those you have read would be as they are, were we marked and carried by the forces of Law. For in the End our actions saved lives, prevented countless deaths in war and preserved the very balance of life and death."
Peerimus sits back down
Kazak Stonewall.Ac 36 Hp 203/212) Tuesday June 15th, 2010 10:23:57 PM
Having voiced his opinions .... the dwarf waits patiently ..... as his fellow travelers speak their thoughts ....
Kazak Stonewall.Ac 36 Hp 203/212) Tuesday June 15th, 2010 10:29:33 PM Rash Trinka Feeling better to have spoken her peace ... she is glad that her friends speak up also .... even as different as they all are from each other .... they all share a common bond of trying to make the wold a better place to live for others ......
(posted by Chris for George who is vactioning in Europe for two weeks )
The Test of Intent - Response (DM JohnP) Tuesday June 15th, 2010 11:04:05 PM
The judges listen intently to the arguments presented by the Children of Chaos, occasionally showing their opinion with fleeting frowns or nods. This lasts for the entire time and the Children seem to be getting due consideration from the Court of Law.
Once everyone has spoken, the judges confer again. Finally, after much discussion, the Oglian speaks once more.
"The Court finds that your actions have served both Law and Chaos, though not in equal measure. Still, your actions are sufficient for the Court to find in your favour in the Test of Intent."
"The Trial is now deadlocked. The choice is now yours. You may leave now and return to your tasks as if no delay had occurred. The charges would be stayed, meaning that you could be summoned once more to complete the Trial."
"Or, you may choose to submit to the Test of Action. You will be given the equivalent of one day to prepare for the Test of Action. At the conclusion of the Test, final judgment would be delivered and the Trial would conclude. If you succeed in the Test of Action, the judgement will be in your favour. If not, the Court will find against you."
"Do you have any quesitons?"
Firn'gaer HP: 119; AC20 (T15); Arcane Sight, Detect Magic, See Invisibility, Read Magic, SR18 Tuesday June 15th, 2010 11:35:12 PM
"I would like to know more about this Test of Action. We are allowed to prepare, but for what. Is it a test by combat, by wits, by what? My choice would be to petition this Court to open the way to the Valley of Ahl so that we may end the Great Migration."
Xenia (AC33/ HP103/103) Wednesday June 16th, 2010 11:31:29 AM
"I'm speculating here again, but I would think that your Test of Action," says the rogue as she speaks up once again, addressing the panel of Judge Guys on the Platform, "would be a test designed for us to demonstrate or otherwise prove through deed the degree of balance that we hold between things lawful and things that tend away from lawful."
"What I'm thinking might be wise for us to consider is not the taking of your Test of Action or not, but the timing of it. Now, I notice that you said," and, in this, Xenia addresses directly and specifically the Oglian Judge, "that we could be summoned to complete the trial. Does that mean that we could also voluntarily return to complete the trial should we so choose? Could we proceed with our attempt to stop the Migration now, and should we succeed, return here to face your Test of Action after that?"
"Also, to give us a better idea of what is at stake here, could you tell us what is the extent of your jurisdiction? And, from what mandate do you derive your authority?"
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Craft Composite Shortbow +2STR (Value 225 gp / Weekly DC 2250 / Daily DC 22500) Today's Progress Roll 35*30 = 1,050 Total Progress 7,830/22500 - 35% Complete
Kazak Stonewall.Ac 36 Hp 203/212) Wednesday June 16th, 2010 10:13:11 PM
The dwarven warrior shakes his head at the Oglians response ....waiting for a free moment to add his voice ......
Kazak stands ...." Dis is outragous ..... yous said we would be put to two tests ...... nature and intent ..... nows you spring dis here test of action on us ..... i git da feeling dat yous won't be happy wit anything we say or have done .... just keeping adding a test ... hoping to fianlly get da answers da way you want dem to be so yous can judge against us ......"
" I fer one am against dis here test of action .... da only action we should take is to git outa here and stop da great migration ..... peoples are being hurt out der ... dis here changes are putting peoples in strange and dangerous circumstances ..... dat is something we need to address ... not taking another test " .... growls Kazak
Turning to Peerimus .... " iz againist dis test of action ..... but i'll go along wit da majority for da sake of keeping us together "
Kazak Stonewall.Ac 36 Hp 203/212) Wednesday June 16th, 2010 10:19:23 PM Rash Trinka
Words the she had recent spoken to the mage come back to her ......
Rash leans over and places an hand on Kazak's arm and says, "Peace brother, your right to be concerned and aggravated but trust in the powers. They told me that going through this would be a good thing. I don't think losing our cool will do us a service here. I don't want to get into a fight with these folks. I will if they tell me they are going to execute us but I don't think that will happen. Our motives are pure and I trust the goodly folk on the tribunal will see that."
[Posted by Chris for George you is somewhere in italy eating real italian pasta !!! .... lucky fool ;-)]
Durgan Stonewall (AC 38; HP 270/270) Wednesday June 16th, 2010 10:37:24 PM
OOC- I hope he tries the gelatis, I hear it is an excellent dessert, with huge number of flavors
Durgan pokes his brother in the ribs. "Whatsa matter? Afraid of a little 'action'? hehe"
"I'm fer either. What do ye say druid?"
The Test of Action - Proposal (DM JohnP) Wednesday June 16th, 2010 11:02:07 PM
The judge listens to the questions from Firn'gaer and Xenia and the others.
"The Test of Action is usually a combat, although there may be something of a puzzle about it, as well. Strategy and tactics, some would say, imposing order upon the unpredictable chaos of combat, as it were."
"Remember that you will be returned whence you came, as if no time had passed."
"As may have been described before, Jericho placed this duty upon us."
Xenia (AC33/ HP103/103) Thursday June 17th, 2010 10:22:17 AM
"You know," the dark rogue turns her face from the panel of Judge Guys and holds a hand over her mouth so that none might read her lips as she whispers into the magic of the Chaos Tattoos. "Normally, I'd say that we just say No. We leave. We fix the Migration and we come back later for this Action Test. I mean, what if we fail the Action Test? Who's gonna fix the Migration? Whereas, we try fix the Migration first, even if we fail, the Action Test ain't gonna matter no more."
"It's the order of things, right? It makes sense," she whispers. And, if anything, Xenia, Girl Rogue, is all about making Sense.
"But ... if Momma Rash's magic says things are gonna turn out alright, then maybe we should oughta trust it and go along with this Action Test. I dunno. I really don't know. What do all of you think?"
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Craft Composite Shortbow +2STR (Value 225 gp / Weekly DC 2250 / Daily DC 22500) Today's Progress Roll 35*30 = 1,050 Total Progress 7,830/22500 - 35% Complete
Torgon AC: 34 HP : 180/180 Thursday June 17th, 2010 7:03:26 PM
Torgon whispers to Peerimus and Xenia "I agree with Xenia. The migration must be stopped. But the way to the valley of Ahl is through this court. Do we need to do their test in order to get there?"
OOC;(Sorry I have been slow on the posting for the last week, my 5 year old niece passed away. After this week, I am going to be out of town for the next two weeks. Can anyone post for me for the next bit should combat appear? Dan/Rich?)
Durgan Stonewall (AC 38; HP 270/270) Thursday June 17th, 2010 9:20:55 PM
OOC- omg, I'm so sorry. I can't think of anything to say except to offer you my prayers for your family.
Durgan sits quietly in his seat. He doesn't even grumble about wanting an ale.
Peerimus AC 34 HP 137/137 and Yorrick AC 42 HP 160/160 Thursday June 17th, 2010 10:34:43 PM
Peerimus listens intently to the others, what made the most sense to him was to attempt to put a stop to the migration and then come back. "They have said no time is passing in our world, so in that regard taking the test would not cause any undu hardship to those we have vowed to help and protect. However, if we fail in the test we might not be able to even attempt to put an end to the migration and for that reason we must, I feel push on to do so. The Powers said coming hree would not be detrimental and so thus far they have not. We know we must pass through here to reach the Valley of Ahl and the Court has said we could continue and then return to continue. I see no downside to continuing and thus think we should. Unless any find extreme fault with my reasoning, let's move through to end the Migration and then return."
Peerimus then addresses the Court. "If we choose to delay the Test of Action, will you allow us passage to the Valley of Ahl. When we have put a stop to the Migration we will submit to the Test of Action."
Peerimus awaits a response from the judges and any other input from the others
The Test of Action - Further (DM JohnP) Sunday June 20th, 2010 10:18:40 PM
The judge nods as it listens to the questions of the Children of Chaos.
[i]"Yes, as we have stated, no time is passing in your world. If you choose to take the Test of Action now, final judgement of the Trial will be made and all of you returned to your at the instant that you left."
"If you are successful, aid may be given to you in the completion of your task."
Xenia (AC33/ HP103/103) Sunday June 20th, 2010 11:12:26 PM
"Um .. waitaminute."
"Pardon me. One more question, if you will. You didn't mention aid before, but I can only assume that you are referring to aid that we might be given toward stopping the Migration."
"Would you please describe the nature of the aid that we might get if we pass your Test of Action?"
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Craft Composite Shortbow +2STR (Value 225 gp / Weekly DC 2250 / Daily DC 22500) Today's Progress Roll 35*30 = 1,050 Total Progress 7,830/22500 - 35% Complete
Kazak Stonewall.Ac 36 Hp 203/212) Monday June 21st, 2010 4:53:31 PM
Shaking his head ....." iz againist dis .....we don't hafta prove anything to dem .... iz know we help da wold in da south .....we help da peoples .... "
" Test of action now .... what test do we hafta take afta dat ?? ..... we don't need to take no stinkin test .... we gots to stop da great migration ..... "
Kazak Stonewall.Ac 36 Hp 203/212) Monday June 21st, 2010 5:03:21 PM Rash Trinka
Rolling her eyes at the dwarf ..... the exasperated woman ....sighs ...heavily
" take it easy .....and show some proper decorum .....we have all had our say ... we of course would like as much infomation as possible ..... seems to me that you have been somewhat vague in your questions .... not sure if that is the intent of it ... perhaps to gauge our reactions ....."
" As you can see we do things somehwat haphazardly ... or perhaps better said ... chaoticly " smiles Rash to the judges
Posted by Chris for George who is now somewhere in France .....heading towards Paris
Durgan Stonewall (AC 38; HP 270/270) Monday June 21st, 2010 9:03:33 PM
"Hmmm. That don't sound too bad. i say we take their durned test and be done with them."
Firn'gaer HP: 119; AC20 (T15); Arcane Sight, Detect Magic, See Invisibility, Read Magic, SR18 Monday June 21st, 2010 9:34:05 PM
"If you are saying that the way to the Valley of Ahl will not be opened unless we accept and pass this last test, then we have no choice."
The Test of Action - Offer (DM JohnP) Monday June 21st, 2010 10:58:14 PM
The judge listens to the Children all asking very much the same question.
'Aid in travel, for one. Advice. Assistance. You will still have to stop the Great Migration yourselves, to make right what you started, but we can speed you on your way and provide some foreknowledge of what you face."
"So, do you attempt the Test of Action?"
Xenia (AC33/ HP103/103) Monday June 21st, 2010 11:12:15 PM
Foreknowledge ...
Few value the knowing stuff than the girl rogue. Few know how hard it is to come by - harder sometimes than pulling teeth. Her father had made a living out of knowing better than anyone else how to get things.
Foreknowledge ...
They'd have to present a united front here.
"We went to the Edge of the Wold for the knowing of how to end the Migration. Here they're offering us more on this." Again Xenia covers her mouth as though stifling a cough and she whispers into the Tattoo magic. "I say we take the offer. Accept the Test of Action."
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Craft Composite Shortbow +2STR (Value 225 gp / Weekly DC 2250 / Daily DC 22500) Today's Progress Roll 35*30 = 1,050 Total Progress 7,830/22500 - 35% Complete
Kazak Stonewall.Ac 36 Hp 203/212) Tuesday June 22nd, 2010 8:59:03 PM
Listening to the judges reply ..... Kazak turns to Peerimus ..... " iz don't like it but i'll support your choice .... we started dis here thing together and we'll finish dat way too " growls the dwarf
With a look at the exasperated woman ..... " sorry just a little frustrated with dis here circus "
Kazak Stonewall.Ac 36 Hp 203/212) Tuesday June 22nd, 2010 9:03:19 PM Rash Trinka
Smiling at the dwarfs response .... " theres hope for you yet " teases Rash
" lets take the test ...... after all we might need all the help we can get in dealing with stopping the great migration "
posted by chris for George who is climbing the effiel tower ;-)
Durgan Stonewall (AC 38; HP 270/270) Tuesday June 22nd, 2010 10:19:12 PM
Durgan crosses his arms. It always came down to fighting didn't it. "I'm with me brudder. If it's a fight ye want I'm sure we won't disappoint, eh?"
OOC- I hope George didn't get that waiter from national lampoon's European vac. :)
The Test of Action - Preparation (DM JohnP) Tuesday June 22nd, 2010 11:01:40 PM
The judge listens before speaking. "From your statements, we understand that you wish to take the Test of Action. The Bailiff will show you to chambers where you can rest and prepare. You are free to decline the Test at any time."
"Court is adjourned until the conclusion of the Test of Action."
The judges stand together and silently file out of the Court. Once they have left, the Bailiff approaches the prisoners' bench and waits for the Children of Chaos to stand and follow him.
"We have chambers for you. You may rest and prepare as you think best. I will tell you more in the chambers."
The Bailiff leads the Children out of the Court and into the hallways. Passing the guards, the Bailiff leads them to a plain door that he pushes open. When Xenia glances inside, she sees a large room with several doorways leading from it. The Bailiff enters the chamber and waits for everyone to enter.
"This suite is where you can rest and prepare. I will tell you what you face in the Test, too. Relax, take some refreshment and I will wait until you are ready." The Bailiff gestures towards a tray of fruit and pitchers of the beverages that the Children have indicated preferences.
"The Court has long made use of the Test of Action. The Court has always maintained a chaos beast within a protected area for the Test. However, it is long since they made use of the Test. And in that time, the creature have grown both in size, wit and powers. And it seems to have spawned."
"The Beast had carved a nest or lair where it retreated. Some angels and myself assaulted more than once, but the monster appeared immune to all physical attacks by the angels themselves, but bled ichor when non-celestial monsters were summoned to help. I believe this means the Chaos Beast has damage reduction vs Law. Further, direct damaging spells were absorbed, ignored, or reflected back upon the caster without any rhyme or reason. A few got through, but not enough to matter. And during all of this, the creature's spawn were assaulting us from behind. We had to withdraw."
"The Court believes a group steeped in Chaos already (such as yourself) can bypass the monsters' defenses in a way that Lawful Outsiders cannot."
"Every time we appeared en masse, the creatures retreated. Perhaps you can devise a tactic where one can divert the Chaos Beast while the others root out its spawn."
Peerimus AC 34 HP 137/137 and Yorrick AC 42 HP 160/160 Tuesday June 22nd, 2010 11:32:36 PM
Peerimus nods to the groups desire to tke the Test of Action. He listens to the Baliff and nods his understanding at the Test. It would seem far less a test than a need by the Court to end that which they sought to control Peerimus interupts any that start to voice opinions along those lines, "Yes thank you Baliff, Please excuse us we have to prepare and plan for our random actions untempered by fore thought."
To the group, once the Baliff has departed, Peerimus speaks first, "It would seem this is less of a Test and more of a the vaunted Court of Law has bitten off more then they can chew. To me personally it is another glaring example of the folly of trying to exert to much control." Peerimus moves to a table and pours himself a glass of wine and seeks out some fruit. "But that is more of a lecture for the Court. We need to decide how we think best to combat the creature. Given what the Baliff has said I believe Kazak, Durgan, Torgon and Yorrick will be our greatest assests. Myself and Firngaer with Xenia and Rash should concentrate on the spawn and I think specifically simply keeping it at bay with Wall spells and the like. What do we know of Chaos beasts beyond what the Court has said?"
Xenia (AC33/ HP103/103) Wednesday June 23rd, 2010 11:15:31 AM
"I've got a couple of questions, if you don't mind." Still polite and rather formal, the girl rogue turns to the Bailiff Guy. "What exactly is it that you want us to do to complete this Test of Action? Do you want all of these Chaos Beasts killed d ... slain? Or would you prefer a few left alive for future tests?"
"And, may we have a map of this Protected Area that you maintain? That should help with the preparing for this thing."
There are many more questions that flit through Xenia's mind. The questions, however, run in the vein of "How could you be so careless?" and "What did a Chaos Beast ever do to you that you put it in your Action Test to be killed down?" Xenia's Da, though, has taught his little girl well. Never antagolize someone from whom you want something. As satisfying as it may be, it just doesn't pay.
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Craft Composite Shortbow +2STR (Value 225 gp / Weekly DC 2250 / Daily DC 22500) Today's Progress Roll 35*30 = 1,050 Total Progress 7,830/22500 - 35% Complete
Durgan Stonewall (AC 38; HP 270/270) Wednesday June 23rd, 2010 4:10:35 PM
"Ah finally an ale." Durgan takes a good long drink, and then refills the mug. "I think ye have the right of it Peerimus, we're doin their dirty work. Dunno nuthin about them creatures. I just need ta know if me axe will hurt them. I could probably hold the big one off fer awhile, if ye want to take out all the little ones first."
6-Level 0: (2) Create Water, Mending, (2) Read Magic, Detect Magic 7-Level 1: (2) Endure Elements, Entangle, (2) Faerie Fire, *Long strider, *Pass Without a Trace, Produce Flame 7-Level 2: (4) Barkskin, Bull Strength, (1) Lesser Restoration, Cats Grace 7-Level 3: (4) Protection from Energy, Daylight, Stone shape, Sleet Storm 6-Level 4: (2) Freedom of Movement, (2) Flamestrike, Rusting Grasp, *Greater Shillaghleh 6-Level 5: (2) Animal Growth, (2) CCW, Stone skin, Wall Thorn 4-Level 6: Fire Seeds, (2)Greater Dispel Magic, Anti Life Shell 4-Level 7: (2) Heal, Ht Baleful Polymorph, Ht Wall of Stone 4-Level 8: Whirlwind, (3) Blank 3-Level 9: Shambler, Shapechange, Blank
*Cast Spell Staff contains ShapeChange
Kazak Stonewall.Ac 36 Hp 203/212) Wednesday June 23rd, 2010 9:13:24 PM
Grumbling as eh hears the Bailiffs description of the chaos beast and how it became an issue .....
" looks to be like we're here to clean up da problem ...... nothing much to do about da court stuff ....eh " ... growls Kazak
" well we can't get any proectiom from out tattoo's cuz dey are Chaos powered too .... just gotta be brute strength .... dat we can do " grins Kazak ... "
" just gotta works us up some tactics ... and what da by da powers is a chaos beastie ?? "
Settling in .... the dwarven army sergeant .... grabs some fruit ... and more sweetened ice tea .... " dats good stuff der "
Kazak Stonewall.Ac 36 Hp 203/212) Wednesday June 23rd, 2010 9:20:09 PM Rash Trinka
feeling better as events keep following what the powers have hinted and nudged them towards ..... Rash is glad that Xenia continues to gather/pump the Bailiff for infomation .....
[posted by Chris for George who is being badgered by some uptight waiter ....;-)]
Preparing & Debating (DM JohnP) Thursday June 24th, 2010 10:55:33 PM OOC - I apologize for missing the post last night.
Xenia and some of the others have questions before the Bailiff leaves. The angel listens to each and politely responds.
"Well, the large one needs to be defeated, that is true. And all of the spawn eliminated, too. I believe that the Court will revise the Test after this."
"I will have a map delivered. It will not be wholly accurate since the Chaos Beast has been tunnelling into the walls of the area. The Beast was kept in a chasm beneath the Court where those attempting the Test could venture. The path downward is steep and narrow and the Chaos Beast will probably meet you there. The spawn seem to keep to the cave below."
As Peerimus speaks, he remembers the card that he drew from the deck. Perhaps he is fated to battle one of these creatures by himself.
Xenia (AC33/ HP103/103) Friday June 25th, 2010 10:17:33 AM
"Thank you." Xenia seats herself primly upon the edge of a chair. When the Bailiff Guy leaves for the map, however, she relaxes back and slip into her more comfortable, familiar patterns of speech.
"These Law Guys aren't anything like what I 'magined they'd be. You'd think they'd be ... " The dark rogue shrugs and rolls her sea-green eyes. " ... more organized or sump'in, wouldn'cha?"
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Craft Composite Shortbow +2STR (Value 225 gp / Weekly DC 2250 / Daily DC 22500) Today's Progress Roll 35*30 = 1,050 Total Progress 7,830/22500 - 35% Complete
Kazak Stonewall.Ac 36 Hp 203/212) Friday June 25th, 2010 6:29:33 PM
"Hehehe yous got dat right girl .... certainly seems like dey are in a bit of disarray ..... i mean afta der younguns ... da ones dat attacked us .....no control of dem ..... and now 2 tests den det add a 3rd ...."
"Plus dis here chaos beastie and its little friends .... seems like no one is in charge ... who's a making the big decisions amongst dem ?? .... organized chaos .. hahahaha .... sorta like us " laughs Kazak
" not sure how much time we gots to plan .... but we hafta make some tactical choices soon .... da map should help a little ....."
Kazak Stonewall.Ac 36 Hp 203/212) Friday June 25th, 2010 6:33:47 PM Rash Trinka
" Agreed we need to do some planning .....i will need a little bit of time to organize my spells .... Peerimus you have any ideas of what spells might be helpful ??? .... lets talk about it over some fruit and iced tea "
As Rash makes her way to the buffet table ... then finds a couch and settles in for some discussion
( posted by Chris for George who might be stuck in looooong lines at the airport ;-) .....he should be home soon )
Peerimus AC 34 HP 137/137 and Yorrick AC 42 HP 160/160 Friday June 25th, 2010 10:58:28 PM
Peerimus agrees on the map and is glad Xenia thought to ask about one. "A narrow steep entrywat where the Beast is likely to meet us and prevent us from using our numbers is something we need to solve first. For spells, given what we have been told directly assaulting it will not be prodictive. I trust Firngaer and Rash to know thier spells effects far better than myself. Seperate and contain is what I believe will be our best method. Kazak, Durgan, Yorrick and Torgon will probably be our best weapons against the actual beast."
Firngaer and myself should be able to quickly seperate and isolate the Spawn. rash we may need your help as well or your healing powers to assist our main assault on the Chaos Beast might be required. One thing that seems clear is that spells lasting for an hour of more, we can cast in advance."
"Ideas on how to not get csught in a single file path? I think Xenia should definately be our lead scout and should be a good distance in front of us.
6-Level 0: (2) Create Water, Mending, (2) Read Magic, Detect Magic 7-Level 1: (2) Endure Elements, Entangle, (2) Faerie Fire, *Long strider, *Pass Without a Trace, Produce Flame 7-Level 2: (4) Barkskin, Bull Strength, (1) Lesser Restoration, Cats Grace 7-Level 3: (4) Protection from Energy, Daylight, Stone shape, Sleet Storm 6-Level 4: (2) Freedom of Movement, (2) Flamestrike, Rusting Grasp, *Greater Shillaghleh 6-Level 5: Animal Growth, (2) CCW, Stone skin, Wall Thorn, Wall of Fire 4-Level 6: Fire Seeds, (2)Greater Dispel Magic, Anti Life Shell 4-Level 7: (2) Heal, Ht Baleful Polymorph, Ht Wall of Stone 4-Level 8: Whirlwind, Mass CSW, Reverse Gravity, Sunburst 3-Level 9: Shambler, Shapechange, Ht Finger of Death
*Cast Spell Staff contains ShapeChange
Rash Saturday June 26th, 2010 2:21:05 PM
Thanks Chris for doing such a great job! I appreciate the work. Europe was great! Had a wonderful time
Rash pulls out her sword and starts to sharpen it thinking of spells to enhance its powers. She looks at the bailiff and asks, "You have told us of this creatures defenses. How about its attacks? Does it use claw and bite or utilize weapons? How big is it it? Does it use spells or other magic? Are you allowed to give us this information or is it part of the test?
Rash looks to the others and says, "I think we need to find a way to isolate the monster from its spawn. It seems like it will fall to Firn'gaer to isolate it from its young while the rest of us try to bring it down quickly.
I think my role in this battle will be more of support. I think it will fall to Kazak, Durgan and Torgon to be our main right arms and anything we can do to support them should be done. Haste spells, aid, and other enhancements such as mass bears endurance could be helpful. I will ready a mass heal to help keep them on their feet."
Rash scratches her nose and then pours a goblet of wine. her brow furrowed in concentration. "I think we need to split in two main groups. The main group will be Peerimus, Kazak, Durgan, and Torgan. Firn'gaer and myself will form the second group and Xenia will be on her own scouting and doing what she does best. Finding some way to pitch in to mess up our foes. Xenia should scout ahead, locate the enemy and give us the lay of the land communicating via our tattoos . Once we find this Chaos beast, Firn'gaer uses his magic and the bow's magic to isolate it. The main group enhanced and buffed dispatches it as quickly as possible.
We three will be the reserve for the unexpected and I will provide healing to the main battle group and be their in support for the nasty surprise that is surely coming our way. Does this sound like a good plan? If so, spellusers prepare for your roles to the best of your ability.
Firn'gaer HP: 119; AC20 (T15); Arcane Sight, Detect Magic, See Invisibility, Read Magic, SR18 d20+13=23 ; Sunday June 27th, 2010 12:48:18 PM
Firn'gaer thinks about what he can recall about Chaos Beasts (Knowledge - Planes DC23).
"I will try to maintain a high vantage point after isolating the beasts and lend support if needed. I am also packing area spells to deal with small ones."
Torgon AC: 34 HP : 180/180 Sunday June 27th, 2010 8:28:20 PM
"I would be happy to go with any battle plan set forth, but remember my reach in doing so. I am able to hit anything moving within 30 feet when I'm righteous mighted, and I can hit 5 different targets.
OOC: Sorry for short post. In chicago for my Nieces funeral. Will be home Tue. night to resume normal posting(If you wish to drag out the fight for a couple days). Thank you all for your kind thoughts and sympathies.
Getting Ready (DM JohnP) Sunday June 27th, 2010 11:22:57 PM
The Bailiff returns after the party has had time to rest, prepare and plan some strategy. The angel motions for everyone to follow him while he stands by the door.
"Are you ready for the Test? If you are, follow me."
The Bailiff leads them out and through the corridors surrounding the Court. After turning one or two corners, the Bailiff stops in front of the doors that they had seen before, the ones with a pair of guards.
"Challengers for the Test of Action. Open the doors."
Each guard reaches out and grasps a handle of the doors then pull them open, revealing a corridor fashioned of fitted stone blocks that leads away from the court. The corridor is magically illuminated, somehow, in a manner that does not result in shadows. Perhaps fifty feet into the corridor, a second pair of doors are closed. The Bailiff leads the Children of Chaos into the corridor. Once they have all entered, the doors are slammed shut behind them with an ominous boom. The Bailiff doesn't pause, though, and continues to stride towards the far doors. Once the angel reaches them, he pushes them open without effort. A gust of warm, fragrant air washes over the party. The Bailiff pauses and sniffs the air.
"Unusual. The Beast normally smells much more ... foul than that. Please continue."
Beyond these doors, the corridor has become a tunnel carved into rock of a type that none of them can identify. The tunnel slopes downward slightly, too little to cause problems walking for anyone, and curves slightly to the right. After making what Peerimus and Xenia figure to be just more than two complete revolutions and descending several hundred feet, the Bailiff pauses at the top of a staircase.
"Not far now," intones the angel as he descends he stairs. "Just ahead is the landing where I will stop. You will be on your own after that."
And the angel was true to his words. After descending for many feet, the stairs end at a broad landing with an arched opening across from the door that is protected by a heavy metal portcullis that is spiked on the other side. When anyone slides close to look, they see open air beyond the opening and the top of a path descending on the side of a great chasm. The far side of the chasm is nearly 200 feet away, it's surface cast into sharp relief by the light filtering down from an unseen source far overhead.
"Ready?"
OOC (DM JohnP) Sunday June 27th, 2010 11:26:52 PM Hey all
I have a bit of a problem. I've been swamped by work lately. On top of that, my mother is probably going to be discharged from hospital on Wednesday and moving into a retirement residence instead of back to her apartment. I should be going to Southern Ontario (six hours away) to help with moving some furniture and figuring out what to do with the rest.
Please be patient with my erratic posting over the next week.
Durgan Stonewall (AC 38; HP 270/270) Monday June 28th, 2010 12:45:53 AM
OOC, no prob, just do what you can.
"Eh? We're always ready. That's part of bein chaotic ye know." Durgan huffs at the angel.
"So, we got a plan yet, or is it just the usual?"
Xenia (AC33/ HP103/103) Monday June 28th, 2010 9:29:09 AM
"Yeah. I'm ready." Xenia replies, as she studies the map. "Doesn't look too complicated," she opines. "Being just a big Chasvalley and all. But I think you should oughta be ready to drop down real fast or fly, if you know what I mean. 'Cause it seems to me that anyone just taking the regular path down is gonna be a sitting goose to be picked off from below."
"Me, I'm gonna fly down off the path and straight down the cliff face," she says, and begins activating a number of her items of magic power.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Active Effects: Invisibility 5m, Fly 5m, Blinking
Items Expended: Winged Boots: 2/3
OoC: Is the lack of shadows restricted to the initial corridor? Or does it extend to the chasm as well? I'm thinking that from this quote, that there are shadows. "... surface cast into sharp relief by the light filtering down from an unseen source far overhead."
And no problem with the missed posts. RL gets that way some time. Take care of your mother.
Craft Composite Shortbow +2STR (Value 225 gp / Weekly DC 2250 / Daily DC 22500) Today's Progress Roll 35*30 = 1,050 Total Progress 7,830/22500 - 35% Complete
Peerimus AC 39 HP 137/137 and Yorrick AC 47 HP 160/160 Monday June 28th, 2010 9:04:13 PM
A gnawing though plagues the druid, his hand itches and his mind loses focus, retunes itself and then promptly looses the thought again. Peerimus flexes his right arm several times and his right hand clenches several times as well. The druid glances down. "There is an issue with our plan. From the Card I drew, I believe I should face the main beast on my own."
Peerimus casts Shapechange and Barkskin on himself and Yorrick. He also activates his Tattoo of Good Hope. Kazak, Yorrick, Torgon, Peerimus, Durgan, Xenia, Rash. Each affected creature gains a +2 morale bonus on saving throws, attack rolls, ability checks, skill checks, and weapon damage rolls.
"Keep the rest of everything off of me. Xenia drop down, stay within the Message range and give us a bearing."
6-Level 0: (2) Create Water, Mending, (2) Read Magic, Detect Magic 7-Level 1: **(2) Endure Elements, Entangle, (2) Faerie Fire, *Long strider, *Pass Without a Trace, Produce Flame 7-Level 2: **(4) Barkskin, Bull Strength, (1) Lesser Restoration, Cats Grace 7-Level 3: (4) Protection from Energy, Daylight, Stone shape, Sleet Storm 6-Level 4: (2) Freedom of Movement, (2) Flamestrike, Rusting Grasp, *Greater Shillaghleh 6-Level 5: Animal Growth, (2) CCW, Stone skin, Wall Thorn, Wall of Fire 4-Level 6: Fire Seeds, (2)Greater Dispel Magic, Anti Life Shell 4-Level 7: (2) Heal, Ht Baleful Polymorph, Ht Wall of Stone 4-Level 8: Whirlwind, Mass CSW, Reverse Gravity, Sunburst 3-Level 9: Shambler, *Shapechange, Ht Finger of Death
*Cast Spell Staff contains *ShapeChange
Peerimus Shapechange, Barkskin, LongStrider, Endure Elements, Pass Without a Trace Yorrick Shapechange, Barkskin, Endure Elements, Pass Without a Trace
Kazak Stonewall.Ac 36 Hp 203/212) Monday June 28th, 2010 9:27:06 PM
Looking at across the chasm ..... " fly we could do .... but whatta bout one of dem magic dimision doors .... gets across together ....... just a use one spell and we can all save our own for when we need dem ....?"
The dwarfs jaw drops when the druid request to take on the chaos beast alone ..... " you wanna what ?? ... oh da card .... now you see why i didnt draw one ... eh .... if ya insist ... no worries ... we'll keep da little pawns away from ya ..... but what happens if ya need help ?? "
Kazak readies his equipment ....waiting to croos before he draws a weapon .... " ian't gonna drop it down into da chasm " growls the dwarf
Running through a checklist in his head ... the dwarven army sergeant ...plans what magics he will use ....
ooc" anybody else having trouble getting to google docs ???
Rash true seeing Monday June 28th, 2010 10:54:15 PM
Rash casts her True seeing spell and says, "I can find the big one with my discern location spell if you wish. I think Xenia should scout ahead first though.
Domain give Rash automatic freedom of movement as per spell indicates domain spell
Zero: Read Magic, Create Water, Detect Magic, Light, Purify Food and Drink, Detect Poison First:Longstrider* Shield of Faith x 2, Command, Endure Elements, Comprehend Languages, Protection from Evil, Divine favor x 2 Second:Spiritual Hammer* Restoration Lesser x 2, Delay Poison, Hold Person, Resist Energy, Aid, Silence Third:Fly*, Invisibility Purge, Magical Vestment x 2, Prayer, Searing light, Remove blindness/deafness, Water breathing Fourth:Dimension Door*, Divine Power, Restoration x 2, Sending, Dismissal, Magic Weapon Greater Fifth: Teleport*, Righteous Might, Spell Resistance, True Seeing x 2, Flame Strike, Disrupting Weapon, Dispel Chaos Sixth:Blade Barrier* Heal x2, Dispel Magic Greater x 2 Seventh: Greater teleport*, Empowered cure light mass, Dictum, Restoration greater x2 Eighth: Phase door* Summon Monster 8, Earthquake, Spell Immunity Greater, Discern Location Ninth: Power Word Kill* Miracle, Heal mass x 2, (2nd miracle is in spell staff which is kept in haversack
Common tactics for spells: Both magical vestments spells along with Longstrider will be cast using the Karma prayer bead and the lesser extend rod. The greater Magic Weapon spell will be cast with the normal extend rod and Karma bead. This spells will last 42 hours before they need to be recast. Endure elements is also cast at night as well and lasts 24 hours
Contingency: (Cast with Miracle spell) When I cast my divine power spell, righteous might is automatically cast. Spells staff (cast with Miracle) holds a miracle spell in it. Twice a day Rash can cast invisibility from the tattoo.
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