Nikolai and Anna are the first to act, but both fail to hurt their intended targets. Tinker rises lightly to his feet, readying his weapons. Pru stays on the ground however, and is pretty good at looking dead.
Michael moves to flank, forgetting that barbarians are known for fighting just as well surrounded on both sides.
Improved Uncanny Dodge Highlight to display spoiler: {(At 5th level and higher, a barbarian can no longer be flanked. This defense denies a rogue the ability to sneak attack the barbarian by flanking her, unless the attacker has at least four more rogue levels than the target has barbarian levels.
If a character already has uncanny dodge (see above) from another class, the levels from the classes that grant uncanny dodge stack to determine the minimum rogue level required to flank the character.}
His daggers cut wounds from the large fighter, who grunts and promises to eat Michael alive.
Neutronis, AC 28, confirmed. 93 Damage. 7 subdual, -3 Strength
With no room to maneuver, Neutronis applies as much offensive pressure on Nikolai as he can. His sword lashes out twice, one only attack catches Nikolai unable to dodge (20% pass). He then activates his shield again, and the gnashing teeth tear a chunk from Nikolai's fist.
Hit AC 25 for 10 damage, Shield hits AC 26 for 6 damage.
Unruk the Undying AC 20 confirmed. 92 Damage -4 Strength. 4 Subdual, Immune to Flanking, Raging, +4 Strength and Con. 4 Rounds. Cleaving, -2 AC
Guffawing, the big barbarian shifts his stance and grips his weapon low. His swings carry the same momentum from Anna to Michael, the former he seems to consider more of a threat.
"Come on puppies! Hit me harder!", he is laughing.. and blood sprays from he mouth as he speaks. His legs seem a little shaky.
Vs Anna: Hit AC 26 for 22 damage, vs Michael, Hit AC 22 for 24 damage
The swirling dust finally subsides, and everyone can take stock of the situation in their crevasse. Above, people have started to look in on the battles.. and the fighting seems to have slowed as people crowd for a view of the heroic struggle within the earth.
Uruk takes a deep breath, and his loud voice booms over to Neutronis.
"Too bad we don't have the Tiger with us. These pups wouldn't have lasted more than a minute."
He looks down at the ragged gaps in his sides through the rips in his hide armor.
"I think you'll be on your own in a minute Neutronis. I told you the gods wouldn't like this."
Neutronis pauses at the near admit of defeat from his general.
"Die well, Unruk!"
In the south, the big barbarian hefts his weapon again and smiles.
"Ain't no other way, Pavillion!"
Prudence Gundle [AC 18; HP 51/51] [Mage Armor] d20+10=27 ; Monday February 8th, 2016 1:23:24 PM
Pru surges to her feet. "Alemi preserve us all," she says. Louder she calls, "If the very gods are against you, and you think you're going to die, then for the love of all the gods, surrender! We won't harm you! And by Flower's undying love and Pantheon's eternal justice, we will figure out a solution. Just, please, stop fighting us!"
[Diplomacy 27.]
Anna Morphe[Small Earth Elemental] (Hugh C) -- AC 26/19/22 - HP 26/48 -- 2 nonlethal-- CMD 17 d20+1=21 ; d20+8=25 ; d6+10=11 ; Monday February 8th, 2016 1:55:28 PM
"Give up Ukruk, drop your weapons and I will not harm you. We will treat you humanely as a prisoner of war. I still don't want this fighting between the Fist, but I will defend myself and my companions if you persist in this foolishness." Anna says, her common sounding gravelly coming from her earthy countenance. (Diplomacy: 21)
She readies an action to attack Ukruk dealing subdual damage if he does not comply with her demands. (25 vs AC(with -4 penalty for nonlethal); 11 magical, bludgeoning, nonlethal damage)
Active effects: Wildshaped as Elemental Body I - 6 hours form of Small Earth elemental +1 size bonus AC, +1 Attack, +4 stealth, +2 fly, -1 CMB/CMD base speed 40 ft (from haste) burrow 40ft (see earthglide) +2 size bonus Str, + 4 nat armor, darkvision 60 ft, slam +12 (1d6+10) (with bull strength, greater magic fang and elemental body str bonus) power attack slam +10 (1d6+16)
Longstrider : 3 hours? (+10 base speed) barkskin 60 min - ? (+3 nat armor) shield of faith 12 - 16 min ? : (+4 deflection) bull's strength -49 rounds (+4 strength) greater magic fang - 6 hours (+1 enhance to all natural attacks) shillelagh - 48 rounds (+1 enhancement bonus; 3d6 damage) haste - +1 AC, +1 to hit, +1 reflex save; +30 foot base speed, +1 attack on full attack
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+12(4), R+12, CMB+10, CMD+21 d20+4=14 ; d20+16=34 ; d20+16=21 ; d4+1=4 ; Monday February 8th, 2016 2:34:58 PM Die well? Die Well?! You betrayed the gods for power, you murdered your brothers in arms for Profit. When you fall this day, do you think any will mourn your passing? That people won't spit at the mention of your name? Do you think the Gods will ignore your perfidy? Your get will change their names to avoid the shame of being kin to a Kinslaying forsworn oathbreaker. Throw down your axe and face Justice, that you might one day atone for the fell deeds you have committed and find the lands of rest with Honor!
Diplo 14
if He don't throw down his ax Michael attacks,..it the man don't quit he's gonna get hit!
To Hit AC 34 (crit! no love) for 4 points of damage.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+12(4), R+12, CMB+10, CMD+21 d4+1=5 ; Monday February 8th, 2016 3:13:53 PM
Sorry, Much love for the Crit! 21! damage 5 for a total of 9!
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 23 Tch 23 Ffted 20 HP 4/38 CMD 28/30(Grapple) d20+1=20 ; Monday February 8th, 2016 3:17:47 PM
Spells in effect: Mage Armor, Owls Wisdom (+4 Wis) , Bulls Strength (+4 Str) Gains +5 bonus to AC and CMD for Monk Wisdom bonus (Wis 20) Stunning Fist: 2/5
Smarting and bleeding badly again, Nikolai holds off attacking and holds back while Pru implores one more time to Neutronis to desist. He doesn't really think it will work, as if the sword may have a grip over the man's will.
"Look at where you are at now and where that great army that was to take this city is. Even if the few of us here die at your hands, you don't have the army left to hold the city against your true enemies. Your reign is destined to be so short as to be laughable an ruin the Mailed Fist for good. Drop it now you'll avoid that worst of humiliations!" he yells at the man in front of him.
He quickly un-slings his backpack and tosses it to Pru. "There's some potions of Healing in there. Use them."
Aid Another Diplomacy +1 = 20, Add +2 to Pru's roll
Standard: Total Defense New AC29 (Acrobatics Ranks gives +6 instead of +4) Move: Give Pru his backpack
OOC: There's one potion of Healing (1d8+1) and he still has the Wand of CLW.
AC 24 T 20 F17 CMD 24 (28 v Bull Rush or Trip); HP 9/45 "Tinker" (SteveK) d20+7=24 ; d4+2=4 ; Monday February 8th, 2016 7:39:36 PM
Tinker thinks the others are crazy. They are in the middle of a battle, and is the best chance to kill them on a battlefield and get what everyone wants. Why make this gesture?
A glance above and the dwarf realizes that now the gesture is made, the whole team is going to have to play out the charade. People are watching. The Agents can destroy Nutronis and Unrak's influence by giving them a chance. If they give up, great. If they attack, they may lose or win; yet even if they win they will lose by losing the respect of everyone watching.
Setting his dagger low, he readies an attack for when Unrak is unreasonable. ..... Readied attack. AC 24. Dam. 4
Trayvin AC 21/12touch Hp 48/59 d20+6=14 ; d20+10=20 ; d8+5=6 ; Monday February 8th, 2016 8:43:59 PM
Trayvin disagrees with giving quarter to these men who have caused so much death and destruction, but he follows the lead of his fellow Fist and gives Unruk the choice to surrender. "Drop it Unruk, for if you die here today, you do so without honor." Trayvin then prepares to attack if Unruk is foolish enough to persist.
Readied actions: direct spiritual weapon: hit AC 14 miss move and attack Unruk: hit AC 20, damage: 6
Active Effects:(+1 saves from circle) Trayvin: Good Hope (16th level, 32 minute duration) +2att/dmg, saves, skill checks resist energy fire, duration 50min resist fire/10 magic circle against evil(target self), duration 50min 10 foot radius protection from arrows 50 points remaining DR 10/magic vs ranged haste- expired
Spells: 0th- Create Water, Detect Poison, Purify Food and Drink, Stabilize 1st- Bless, Comprehend Languages, Divine Favor, Protection from Evil, Shield of Faith(d) 2nd- Bull’s Strength, Restoration- Lesser, Resist Energy*, Spiritual Weapon*, Bless Weapon(d) 3rd- Prayer*, Magic Circle Against Evil*, Searing Light(d) *denotes used spell channeling 3/6 remaining*(Roll 1 extra d6 while channeling. At this time, you have an unlimited use of channels. At any time, you may remove this blessing for a single 4d6 channel as a swift action. If you do, your channels go back to normal rules.)
AC 24 T 20 F17 CMD 24 (28 v Bull Rush or Trip); HP 9/45 "Tinker" (SteveK) Tuesday February 9th, 2016 9:47:50 PM
Tinker breathes in, and exhales, the slight fog of his breath sparkling in the dusty sunlight inside the crevasse. He watches for Unrak's slightest move to attack, ready to drive his dagger home.
Prudence Gundle [AC 18; HP 51/51] [Mage Armor] Tuesday February 9th, 2016 10:31:28 PM
Pru fishes a couple of healing potions out of the backpack, but isn't sure what to do with them. She isn't injured at all, although Nikolai could clearly use their benefit. She clutches the potion bottles, hoping for a chance to use them to good effect.
Anna Morphe[Small Earth Elemental] (Hugh C) -- AC 26/19/22 - HP 26/48 -- 2 nonlethal-- CMD 17 Tuesday February 9th, 2016 11:22:25 PM
Anna also eyes Ukruk warily, ready to slam into him and hopefully subdue him should he not comply with her request.
(OOC: checking in b4 bed)
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 23 Tch 23 Ffted 20 HP 4/38 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Wednesday February 10th, 2016 12:25:23 AM
Nikolai cautiously points to Thak, "If you get a chance, Pru, see if that potion will help. But don't let your guard down!"
OOC: there's only one, I thought there was two.
Heroism and Sacrifce: Map d20+13=20 ; d20+8=14 ; d20+13=15 ; d20+8=19 ; Wednesday February 10th, 2016 1:05:02 AM
Men speak. Women speak. Unrak is neither. Unrak is rage and death unbridled, and he receives what he seeks, death in combat.
Spitting on the offers of mercy, Unrak yells a final call. "I. DO. NOT. YIELD! I chose conquest over stagnation. I chose to make my axe carve swaths of land for my men, not for something as shallow as gold!"
He steps forward and recieves a heavy blow from Anna. Dazed, Michaels daggers and Trayvins mace lay him low. He falls with a heavy thud, but still breathes shallow breaths. He shoots Tinker a look that seems to be a request, a humble plea for release that is within the dwarfs power.. a call for the dagger in his hands.
In the northern gap, Neutronis isn't so quick to die.
"Sergeant Prudence, do not be so quick to promise what you cannot keep. Whether I die in this hole, or hanging from a noose, defeat here is death for me."
He looks up at the soldiers from both sides watching him now.
"I'm not sure, dear Agents, the odds are not still in my favor. My men march, and from down here, no one really knows whats going on up there. Success means a country for us, a place of our own, for however short the duration. I think perhaps, it might have lasted longer, if not for the sudden geological shake ups."
He draws F'floys holy symbol in the dirt and spits upon it.
"Either way, it will be the end of you, Nikolai. I'm afraid I can't go to the gallows without repaying the insult you gave me."
Neutronis, AC 28, confirmed. 93 Damage. 7 subdual, -3 Strength
Neutronis lunges forward, slashing twice, missing Nikolai both times.
Unruk the Undying AC 14 confirmed. 108 Damage -8 Strength, Staggered, Dying, Fatigued, Helpless, -6 AC
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 23 Tch 23 Ffted 20 HP 4/38 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Wednesday February 10th, 2016 1:25:07 AM "So be it!" Nikolai replies as he dodges the sword. "Pru!" he calls, "Have no mercy now. You must put forth whatever killing spells you have left!"
OOC: holding actual action until after Pru goes. Finishing the post later.
AC 24 T 20 F17 CMD 24 (28 v Bull Rush or Trip); HP 9/45 "Tinker" (SteveK) Wednesday February 10th, 2016 5:49:19 AM
Tinker usually has many social situations go over his head, not understanding non-verbal communication or the nuance of a word. He can, however, immediately understand what Unrak is saying; honorable death in combat over an ignoble execution.
Still, the dwarf hesitates. Taking a life in the heat of battle is one thing, but with no combat going at the moment? He thinks the Gods of Testing would approve, but he doesn't want to meet them. What of the Gods of the Wold?
There, the dwarf's knowledge breaks down, he just doesn't know, and the dagger quivers in his hand. And a voice is recalled from the past, a peaceful centaur, a cleric of Flower, who was very much out of place in the Fist, even more so than a dwarf raised by gnomes. Linden's voice seems to whisper in Daemar's mind where the dwarf overheard Linden's morning prayers: 'I do not know if my actions please you, but I hope that my wanting to please you pleases you...'
Tears in his eyes, Tinker darts down with his dagger in a coup de grace. "Go in glory and honorable death, brother Fist", he says to the former commander of the Bears. He watches as the barbarian's eyes glaze and his own drops hot tears to mingle with earth and blood.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+12(4), R+12, CMB+10, CMD+21 Wednesday February 10th, 2016 7:30:09 AM
Michael sees his friends tears and is confused. When a soldier breaks fist law and must die Michael is sad, not all can follow the code of Honor, and when one fails it is a shame. These though we're the example we were to look to. From great men great things are expected. They willfully failed in their duty, Michael has no tears for any of them.
When Tinker is done, Michael severs Unruk head from his body. We must have a way to prove their deaths if we are to stop this. As well, Michael promised he would put their heads on pikes, and that buzzardshe would pick their bones.
Anna Morphe[Small Earth Elemental] (Hugh C) -- AC 26/19/22 - HP 26/48 -- 2 nonlethal-- CMD 17 d20+12=19 ; Wednesday February 10th, 2016 8:27:40 AM
Anna glides through the earth from the crevasse she was in with the corpse of Ukruk and emerges behind Neutronis in the other Crevasse, flanking him with Nikolai. The elemental druidess attempts to slam into Neutronis, but her aim is thrown off by emerging from the earth.
Active effects: Wildshaped as Elemental Body I - 6 hours form of Small Earth elemental +1 size bonus AC, +1 Attack, +4 stealth, +2 fly, -1 CMB/CMD base speed 40 ft (from haste) burrow 40ft (see earthglide) +2 size bonus Str, + 4 nat armor, darkvision 60 ft, slam +12 (1d6+10) (with bull strength, greater magic fang and elemental body str bonus) power attack slam +10 (1d6+16)
Longstrider : 3 hours? (+10 base speed) barkskin 60 min - ? (+3 nat armor) shield of faith 12 - 16 min ? : (+4 deflection) bull's strength -48 rounds (+4 strength) greater magic fang - 6 hours (+1 enhance to all natural attacks) shillelagh - 47 rounds (+1 enhancement bonus; 3d6 damage) haste - +1 AC, +1 to hit, +1 reflex save; +30 foot base speed, +1 attack on full attack - 4 rounds left?
Prudence Gundle [AC 18; HP 51/51] [Mage Armor] d8=1 ; d8=7 ; d20+7=11 ; d6=1 ; d6=2 ; d6=3 ; d6=6 ; Wednesday February 10th, 2016 2:38:48 PM
Pru unstoppers a potion and pours it down Thak's throat.
Thak is healed 8 points.
But her work is not done. Making a heroice effort, she gathers her magic to her and casts a spell.
[Use a Hero point for another action. Cast Scorching Ray on Neutronis. Hit a whopping 11, but that is Touch AC, so I'll go ahead and roll damage. 12 damage.]
Trayvin AC 21/12touch Hp 48/59 d6=1 ; d6=3 ; d6=2 ; d6=5 ; d6=1 ; d6=6 ; Wednesday February 10th, 2016 9:26:12 PM
"You got better than you deserved Unruk. I was going to keep you alive long enough to face a court over this."
Trayvin channels energy again for Tinker's benefit. "Allright then, now how do we get out of here?" channel energy = 16hp healed
Active Effects:(+1 saves from circle) Trayvin: Good Hope (16th level, 32 minute duration) +2att/dmg, saves, skill checks resist energy fire, duration 50min resist fire/10 magic circle against evil(target self), duration 50min 10 foot radius protection from arrows 50 points remaining DR 10/magic vs ranged haste- expired
Spells: 0th- Create Water, Detect Poison, Purify Food and Drink, Stabilize 1st- Bless, Comprehend Languages, Divine Favor, Protection from Evil, Shield of Faith(d) 2nd- Bull’s Strength, Restoration- Lesser, Resist Energy*, Spiritual Weapon*, Bless Weapon(d) 3rd- Prayer*, Magic Circle Against Evil*, Searing Light(d) *denotes used spell channeling 3/6 remaining*(Roll 1 extra d6 while channeling. At this time, you have an unlimited use of channels. At any time, you may remove this blessing for a single 4d6 channel as a swift action. If you do, your channels go back to normal rules.)
Thak Val Zsing (Lewis) - AC 17 - -6/54 HP - Haste Wednesday February 10th, 2016 9:49:23 PM
Pru's healing potion helps stopper some of Thak's wounds, but does not prove enough to restore him to life.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 23 Tch 23 Ffted 20 HP 4/38 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Wednesday February 10th, 2016 10:31:51 PM
Mage Armor, Owls Wisdom (+4 Wis) , Bulls Strength (+4 Str) Gains +5 bonus to AC and CMD for Monk Wisdom bonus (Wis 20) Stunning Fist: 2/5
Nikolai still needs to buy time and keep Neutronis busy. He calls over his back to Pru, "Keep it up Pru. Patience. Take a deep breath to steady your hands!" he encourages
For his part, he maintains his defenses up as best he can and keeps Neutronis between himself and Ana.
Standard: Total Defense New AC29 (Acrobatics Ranks gives +6 instead of +4)
Enough is Enough d20+8=28 ; d20+8=23 ; d20+8=11 ; d8=8 ; d8=7 ; d8=3 ; d20+14=29 ; d20+9=19 ; d10+7=10 ; d10+7=15 ; Thursday February 11th, 2016 12:43:24 AM
Tinker gives Unruk the gift of death, absolving him of his shame of defeat. Whether it was right by the Fist, or wrong by the Gods, it was fine by Tinkers moral compass, and that is probably enough for anyone to understand in the aftermath of this terrible conflict.
Michael however, doesn't quite understand Tinkers inner turmoil. Coming from tougher stock that is used to harsh punishment, he removes any remaining sanctity in the moment and begins the gruesome task of staying true to his word. As he removes the head, men from above yell and scream in anger, many wearing the colors of Bear Regiment. One, wearing a scouts badge, begins firing down with his bow. This reignites the fighting above their chasm, and the battle is back in earnest.
Bow vs AC 22, Crit AC 28 and confirm vs AC 23 for 18 damage.
Trayvin channels, and his healing magic catches both Tinker and the newly wounded Michael. Its a shame for Trayvin, probably. The entire time all he wanted was a peaceful resolution, and it's been denied him to the last. Resolving himself to justice, that process has been stripped from him as well.
Anna takes full advantage of her current form. She, of all her comrades, seems to be coming from a place of less emotion. Newer to the Fist and given a unique perspective on life and death, the Morphling emerges and smashes naught but air.
Prudence tries to even odds by finally taking the offensive. Neutronis, ever agile, continues to dodge attacks. Her potion has helped Thak, who is beginning to hear the roar of the fight around him. How likely is it he understands the commander whom he tried to give respectful death to is fighting right near him?
Neutronis finally plays his final trick. Stepping at an upward angle, he stands effortlessly on the wall of the gouge. Several unexpected thrusts from above are able to catch Nikolai offguard, and he penetrates the monks defense.
Hit AC 29 for 10 damage.
When Nikolai hits the ground, unconscious, Neutonis finishes his attack pattern with a flourish, running his bastard sword through his foes back. The mithril point juts through the monks chest on the other side.
it AC 18 [Niko's AC has dropped.] for 15 damage.
He casts a sidelong glance at Prudence, then again at Anna. He tosses his weapon to the ground and hops to the floor of the scar. He takes a deep breath, then salutes Nikolai, crisply and sharply, with some genuine respect.
"I surrender. Sergeant Grundle, I name you Thumb of Double Fist, free to rename it as you see fit. Agent, as my final order as Grand Marshall, I order you take me into custody."
He looks up at his men, some of whom have begun to throw down weapons as their lord at arms calls the attack a failure.
"Take the others as well, mistreat no prisoner. I have no illusions I'm long for this earth. My head and it's pike can't care for them, but you can. You have the heart that will allow it. After all, you feigned consciousness and inaction long enough to allow Kourmorov and I to settle our differences. Had you magically assaulted me sooner, perhaps with more accurate force magic, we might not have danced our duel to completion. I thank you for your consideration of our feud. "
He slumps to the ground, pained, and sticks out his arms and closes his eyes, waiting for either a rope and manacles, or a final blow.
Enough is Enough Thursday February 11th, 2016 12:45:17 AM
Above the southern chasm, commotion has died down. The archer firing at Michael is quickly apprehended, and a rope is tossed into the pit, held by both city guard and assorted legionairres of various fists.
Anna Morphe[Small Earth Elemental] (Hugh C) -- AC 26/19/22 - HP 26/48 -- 2 nonlethal-- CMD 17 Thursday February 11th, 2016 1:46:37 PM
Anna kicks Neutronis's weapon and shield away.
"He's dead, Pru." Anna says, referring to Nikolai, "Should I return the favor to Neutronis or are we going to hang the bugger?"
At this point Anna is ready to kill Neutronis, but at the same time she did promise quarter to Ukruk and Neutronis did surrender.
Active effects: Wildshaped as Elemental Body I - 6 hours form of Small Earth elemental +1 size bonus AC, +1 Attack, +4 stealth, +2 fly, -1 CMB/CMD base speed 40 ft (from haste) burrow 40ft (see earthglide) +2 size bonus Str, + 4 nat armor, darkvision 60 ft, slam +12 (1d6+10) (with bull strength, greater magic fang and elemental body str bonus) power attack slam +10 (1d6+16)
Longstrider : 3 hours? (+10 base speed) barkskin 60 min - ? (+3 nat armor) shield of faith 12 - 16 min ? : (+4 deflection) bull's strength -48 rounds (+4 strength) greater magic fang - 6 hours (+1 enhance to all natural attacks) shillelagh - 47 rounds (+1 enhancement bonus; 3d6 damage) haste - +1 AC, +1 to hit, +1 reflex save; +30 foot base speed, +1 attack on full attack - 4 rounds left?
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+12(4), R+12, CMB+10, CMD+21 Thursday February 11th, 2016 2:38:30 PM
Michael ties the dead barbarian's long hair to a loop in his belt and climbs the rope as nimbly as he is able. His eyes are hard as he scans the battle ground. locking eyes with the remaining Fist soldiers. He picks the Pike of a fallen guardsman up, Impales the head on it and shoves it firmly into the torn soil, muddy with the blood of fallen men. He stands to parade rest and speaks Loudly in his best drill corporal voice.
What separates we of the Mailed Fist from common brigands, thieves and murderers? True Steel for Honest Coin. It's why we are the best, by the gods mercenary battalion, in all the Wold. We hold ourselves to the HIGHEST honor, We Die by that Honor and we Kill those who BETRAY that CODE! These men, who we have entrusted with that HONOR have BETRAYED it. Did they do so for personal gain? NO. Did they do so for Power? NO. They did it to try and bring more power to the Fist. A noble goal perhaps, but done in such a way as to Destroy the Fist and RUIN ANY TRUST our clients would ever place in US. They Broke Fist LAW! A Soldier who would Raze, Rapine and Steal out side or orders will dance a jig in Traitors Square. We have all seen it! The Lowest recruit private, dead before his clothes are even soiled all for indulging in those crimes. What difference if it is our LEADERS who act the same?
He stares hard around the battlefield, the Head of Unruk on it's pike at his back, his stance daring anyone to gainsay his words.
Prudence Gundle [AC 18; HP 51/51] [Mage Armor] Thursday February 11th, 2016 3:02:31 PM
Pru is quite sure she's going to be sick.
The stench of the battlefield is overwhelming, but more than that, the sheer waste of what just happened is appalling. And Neutronis has made her responsible for the cleanup. After killing her--her--her whatever Nikoali was to her. Thumb. We'll go with Thumb.
For a moment, she just stares, fighting the urge to throw up. Then she clears her throat. Then she speaks in a clear, carrying voice.
"Tinker? If you have any manacles or anything like that, we could use them over here. Also, if anyone has any healing potions, Thak is still unconscious. And--and perhaps one of the priests of Ffloy would be good enough to see to the dead."
She picks up her fallen longspear, and moves to keep an eye on Neutronis.
Anna Morphe[Small Earth Elemental] (Hugh C) -- AC 26/19/22 - HP 26/48 -- 2 nonlethal-- CMD 17 d20+12=16 ; d6+10=13 ; Thursday February 11th, 2016 6:43:24 PM
Anna feels empty inside. She is sick of all the death and infighting between the Fist and is saddened and angered at the loss of Nikolai. She really wants to kill Neutronis but obeys Pru's inclination to take him alive.
She readies to slam into him should he make any sudden movements. (16 vs AC; 13 magical bludgeoning; if necessary)
"Are you sure you don't want to end him, Pru?" Anna asks, "He did rally many to his cause, if we leave him alive, perhaps they'll help him escape."
AC 24 T 20 F17 CMD 24 (28 v Bull Rush or Trip); HP 25/45 "Tinker" (SteveK) d20+10=20 ; d20+9=21 ; Thursday February 11th, 2016 7:22:48 PM
Tinker isn't sure of his own emotions and makes no attempt to restrain Michael's more gruesome act nor his speech. The halfling is probably right that they need to immediately establish for everyone on the battlefield who is right and who is wrong. But Tinker's mind is turned inward. Are his tears because of taking a life? Because of the near death of the Fist? Because of the fall of a once-great man? Because of all the death in the city they were unable to avert?
Even Tinker doesn't know.
And then Prudence's voice cuts over the tumult. Something to do and someone giving sensible instructions. It galvanizes the dwarf into action and he pushes the confusion away for a time.
Climbing the rope with alacrity, he takes a controlled descent into the chasm where Anna and Prudence are holding Nutronis at bay. Pulling out his manacles and good lock, he maneuvers around Nutronis and locks him tight. A thumbs up to Prudence, Tinker then uses his engineering knowledge to get soldiers and townsfolk to jury rig a trestle to lift the prisoner and Nikolai's body from the hole. ..... Acrobatics down. 20 Know Engineering. 21
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 23 Tch 23 Ffted 20 HP -/38 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Thursday February 11th, 2016 9:49:13 PM
Nikolai wishes he could have yelled out "Live for the Fist, Die for the Fist!" but Neutronis' attack was just too sudden. He felt little pain, really, as he already was badly battered. What the sword thrust added only lasted a second and then he felt himself very light.
His spirit lifted from the flesh and he could see the events going on around him but the pull was preventing him from interacting with anything. In a desperate move just before he left for good, he managed to whisper in Pru's ear, 'The wand of healing, in the backpack...' and then the Wold vanished.
Enough is Enough Friday February 12th, 2016 7:01:21 PM
Prudence is sickened by the death of Nikolai for many reasons, and for the first time, the conflicting nature of their relationship surfaces. Even worse, she's now in charge of the situation, in a strange last order given by Neutronis himself.
Nikolai's last words were strange, a reminder to Prudence to carry on healing. As Thumb, Nikolai was always like that. Sensible, perhaps, was the best word to describe him.
Anna has a strong desire to end Neutronis here and now. She even double checks Pru's resolve, and finds it strong enough to resist the urge to kill the man responsible for so much wrong doing.
Tinker too, is conflicted. He is sad, but doesn't know why. There's much to be sad about, and he knows in his heart that Neutronis is every bit as dead as Nikolai, it just hasn't happened yet.
Michael is true to his word, and pikes Unruk's head. Unruk had many natural advantages over Tinker and the Halfling, and if not for the magical bombardment he survived to reach them, might likely have taken the whole lot of Agents near him. Still, one of the lessons of the Fist is that alone you do nothing, and together we do everything. It seems ironic a regimental commander forgot that.
Tinkers rig works, and as Neutronis is led up in manacles, the many fissures of the battleflied have formed a decisive shape, the holy symbol of F'floy. Protected by the rifts, soldiers of each side have been isolated into tiny pockets, and most seem unwilling to cross over and continue the fight.
Even near the shores, men have stopped fighting. A massive fleet of confused looking sailors manning ships are scrambling for anchors. There is commotion from the watch tower, and the trio of Clerics emerge, with Tiger Commander Gunter Farias held by magical strength, hovering behind them in the air.
Closer to the walls, men see Unruks head on a spit and begin to question the wisdom of the fight. Most through down their weapons, surrending to the Fist forces that used to be their friends and comrades.
----------------------------------------
Nikolai finds himself floating high above the field of battle. All around Alithmar, other spirits float as well. Those fallen seem to be suspended, tethered to grounds of the fight.. many seem unaware of their plight, only a few are mobile and reacting to their situation, Unruk, raging and gnawing at his tether, among them.
Nikolai looks, and finds he too is suspended by a chain-like link of spiritual force, despite a gentle pull tugging him upwards.
Trayvin AC 21/12touch Hp 59/59 d6=2 ; d6=1 ; d6=3 ; d6=6 ; d6=4 ; d8=7 ; d8=7 ; Friday February 12th, 2016 9:58:44 PM
Trayvin climbs the offered rope. It looks like the fighting is done. Nikolai apparently was gone, but there were others he could still help. He starts near Thak, and bathes him in the healing glow that is his gift from the gods of the Wold to share. Then he moves about the battlefield, gathering groups of wounded soldiers and channels energy to heal them. Regardless of which side they fought for he heals them all, and continues to do so until the gift from Ffloy wears off and his own reserves are spent as well. He says nothing and goes about the task in silence. Is that a tear in his eye? Nah, just some dust.
channeling(for those near Thak) = 15, also convert bulls strength to cure mod for Thak = 14+6 = 20hp healed
Active Effects:(+1 saves from circle) Trayvin: Good Hope (16th level, 32 minute duration) +2att/dmg, saves, skill checks resist energy fire, duration 50min resist fire/10 magic circle against evil(target self), duration 50min 10 foot radius protection from arrows 50 points remaining DR 10/magic vs ranged haste- expired
Spells: 0th- Create Water, Detect Poison, Purify Food and Drink, Stabilize 1st- Bless, Comprehend Languages, Divine Favor, Protection from Evil, Shield of Faith(d) 2nd- Bull’s Strength*, Restoration- Lesser, Resist Energy*, Spiritual Weapon*, Bless Weapon(d) 3rd- Prayer*, Magic Circle Against Evil*, Searing Light(d) *denotes used spell channeling 3/6 remaining*(Roll 1 extra d6 while channeling. At this time, you have an unlimited use of channels. At any time, you may remove this blessing for a single 4d6 channel as a swift action. If you do, your channels go back to normal rules.)
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF15 (ucdodge) HP21/43 Me+12(4), R+12, CMB+10, CMD+21 Saturday February 13th, 2016 2:17:34 AM
As the healing energy washes over Michael he finds his struggle to look triumphant and just easier to hold, He see's Neutronis winched to the surface in manacles and it becomes easier still, When Nikolai rises limp from the crevasse though, it becomes harder again. It should have been him, A great man once said that the only thing harder than a battle lost was a battle won. He understands that now to his great regret.
He walks over to where Nikolai's body rest on the ground as they bring the others up. He has no time for tears at the moment, the fate of the Fist rests with how they handle the next minutes, hours, days and even Weeks. But he takes a moment to speak to his Thumb, his leader, his...friend.
I would have gladly traded my life for yours. You were...the best of us, and we are diminished without you here. It was my great Honor and personal pleasure to serve under you, I hope you find your way to the lands of rest. I guess I need to try and put some spine and direction into these soldiers, they will be lost and leaderless now. wish me luck...I hope i do you proud Sir...Nikolai.
He then straightens to his full yard height and Scans the soldiers around the area looking for a Thumb or a corporal. When he finds one he approaches.
Sargent! I am going to need you to start organizing the remainder of your men into fists, start a graves detail and send runners around to gather up the rest of the men. Once that is done I want you to retire to the base camp in good order and report to the commander of Eagle company. Commander Minek will have further orders for you and help in getting the men squared away. Any wounded you find I want you to bring here to the that Cleric over there healing people. Don't do it all your self...delegate and get any other Non com's you find into the program. I am going to go talk to the City guard and try and keep them occupied long enough for you to get the men back to the camp, it will be much harder for them to arrest you if you NOT HERE! do you understand?
AC 24 T 20 F17 CMD 24 (28 v Bull Rush or Trip); HP 25/45 "Tinker" (SteveK) Saturday February 13th, 2016 7:15:17 AM
Tinker oversees his contraption, a gleam of pleasure in his eye at working with a mechanical thing instead of people. Although... His thoughts flash back to the first wave and how three city defenders responded to his harsh instructions. That worked too. He takes a glacé to see if any of his impromptu squad survived the battle, then resolutely turns his mind to his work, gathering his fallen weapons and getting live and dead bodies out of this crevasse.
And he can do so until Nikolai's body is up. He has no tears for Nikolai, and the thought again makes the dwarf wonder why? "No time" he unconsciously echoes Michael, and calls to some nearby townsmen "get a horse. Here. Now." While they do that, Tinker lashes together a travois and places Nikolai's body on. He uses battle debris to cover his leader's body to the terrible wound in his chest, swords and arrows piled around from the litter. And with a dirty rag, cleans The body's face as best he can.
When the horse arrives, he assembles it to the beast, and then notices the Clerics of Ffloy. "Sirs, would you lead our fallen leader back to the Fist Camp? I think it may be the right thing to do. "
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 23 Tch 23 Ffted 20 HP -/38 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Saturday February 13th, 2016 11:22:38 AM
His spiritual accent suddenly stopped, Nikolai is puzzled. He looks about and sees the thousands of other spirits, Alithmar soldiers and Mailed Fist alike, floating above the battle field the same way as he. It's not until he sees Uruk's raging yanking on a spiritual chain that he notices the others are tethered as well. Looking down he notices his chain.
His father said he had been killed in battle once but did not give any details. Each time he asked, his father said 'If you don't die, you don't need to know, and if you do, you'll already know' and that was that. But was this it? What were they waiting for? Judgement?
Looking down still, he can see the small figures running about but this time there is no battle. Straight down he sees the activity around the Ffloy cleric's tower and his own Fist climbing out of the crevasses. He watches with interest, for it appears that their objective to stop Neutronis and save Alithmar seems to have been accomplished. A sense of pride wells up withing his ghostly chest. They did it! And not only did they stop Neutronis but kept the Fist intact, mostly. He knew that facing Neutronis probably would mean death but he inwardly thanks Alemi, his patron god, that his friends were spared. His life in exchange for the Honor of the Fist was worth it.
The only downside was that he would not be around to hear the songs and tales exhorting Nikolai's Fist.
With a ghostly pain he notices as each one of his friends pays homage to his fleshy body. He did what a Thumb is supposed to do, use the best tactics for the situation, sacrifice oneself for the protection of the Fist. Good Thumbs are easier to replace than good Fists. Alexi Komonov, his father, would be proud. His mom would smack him for that but deep inside her tender heart would be proud too. Both are staunch Mailed Fist members and know that their son signed up not just to keep the multi-generation tradition of joining the Mailed Fist going, but it was because their son wanted to live the life of Adventure too. Future Komonovs could now join the Mailed Fist with Honor and not be treated as brigands.
Grandpa and Great Grandpa Komonv died honorable members of the Mailed Fist but nothing noteworthy but their hard work and dedication. Alexi would die one day as a notable cavalry commander. But the name Komonv would only mean something to Wolf Regiment. Nikolai Komonv will be notable to the whole Mailed Fist.
On the plus side of things, he won't have to 'live' up to the fame they'll get for this. His friends will. HA!
Nikolai chuckles.
Prudence Gundle [AC 18; HP 51/51] [Mage Armor] Saturday February 13th, 2016 1:25:28 PM
If Neutronis tries to escape, or attack, Pru's best chance of stopping him is her magic. The longspear, however, is a stronger visual menace, so she continues to hold it ready, keeping a watchful eye on their important prisoner.
"Anna?" she says. "Would you please find Uriah and ask him to come over here? There are some logistical matters we need to discuss."
Anna Morphe (Hugh C) -- AC 24/17/21 - HP 41/48 -- CMD 18 d20+11=25 Saturday February 13th, 2016 3:25:59 PM
Anna had reverted to her normal form before climbing out of the chasm.
Once her Fist is out of the chasm and she has reclaimed her wands and oversized club she listens to what her new Thumb had to say. The thought dawns on her that she could have prevented Nikolai's death had she distracted Neutronis instead of going for the kill. She will do a better job this time. She swears to herself to do a better job next time, to try to think of more options before attacking.
"Yes, Ma'am" Anna says saluting.
She returns to her mortal form and goes to find the clerics of Ffloy.
Active effects: Longstrider : 3 hours? (+10 base speed) barkskin 60 min - ? (+3 nat armor) shield of faith 12 - 16 min ? : (+4 deflection) bull's strength -47 rounds + ? (+4 strength) greater magic fang - 6 hours (+1 enhance to all natural attacks) shillelagh - 46 rounds + ? (+1 enhancement bonus; 3d6 damage)
Thak Val Zsing (Lewis) - AC 17 - 14/54 HP - Haste Sunday February 14th, 2016 12:12:12 AM
An explosion of coughing heralds the dwarf's return to consciousness, flecks of half-congealed blood flying onto the dirt as he dry-heaves. Grabbing for his waterskin, he takes a deep drink, before standing and surveying the fight, the captured, the dead. Retrieving his dropped blades, he cleans them against his boot and slide them back into their sheathes. Not today, father...
The moment for judgement having passed, Thak can only look at the captured Neutronis in pity and sadness- but only for a moment, before he feels the last of his duty to his former commander fill him. He moves his way to Prudence and stands next to her, helping to support Neutronis, his grip surprisingly gentle, his stance a careful measure between warning off those who would damage his prisoner, and warning off his prisoner from damaging him. "Easy, sir. Easy. This way."
He passes him his waterskin.
Enough is Enough Monday February 15th, 2016 2:24:11 PM
Neutronis, helped to his feet by Thak, maintains his composure as he stands. He gives Thak a curious look, then nods appreciatively. "You are a good soldier Thak. I'm glad the fall didn't kill you." Neutronis takes a deep breath, then works with the pully to be taken out of the pit.
Tinker finds some refuge in the workings of his toys. The dwarf has always found some peace in mechanical designs, but for the first time in his short career of commanding people, finds that an army has as many moving pieces, kogs, and kinks as any metal blacksmiths puzzle.
Prudence meanwhile, continues to assert command. She keeps her spearpoint at Neutronis, who thankfully doesn't look at her with anything other than confirmation of her orders to him. She sends Anna to find the head cleric, Uriah.
Anna obeys, snapping a sharp salute. Uriah has had Gelt manacled and led away, and gives the young Druid his full attention and thanks. "You all did admirably well. To descend into the depths of battle and climb out, victorious over both Neutronis and Unruk is a feat few could have accomplished." He motions to be led back towards Prudence. All three Clerics in tow, Anna reports back to Pru.
Meanwhile, Michael and Trayvin keep order among both the healthy and the wounded. Many junior Fist clerics report in, healing under his direction the groups most in need. One of the younger men, a cleric of Jancaissis, stops in his work and stares at Trayvin a moment before asking, "Are we going to be hung?"
Michaels commands are met quickly without any questions. Word has spread that he was responsible wholly for Unruks death, despite the truth of the matter. He DID take the barbarians head, and that's enough for many, including those in Bear regalia. Even more telling, many others are ripping off their Mailed Fist insignia, perhaps hoping to be counted amongst the Fist rebels, and not the main force.
-------------------- From up above, Nikolai continues to watch. He is proud of his unit, and happy that the aftermath isn't his concern. The southern side of the battle has ended as well, with an entire regiment maintaining order. Eagle Regiment never partook in the battle, and restrained those from other regiments under their command. It seems the Agents information made it through the proper channels.
Unruk seems to have calmed down, and points at the priests, who, from the vision of the dead are glowing with an incredibly bright aura. Tendrils of color seem to be effortless sprawling from them, making contact with all of the dead. Above them floats a spectral sign, the holy symbol of Ffloy. ----------------------
Arriving in audience with Prudence, Uriah speaks.
"Thank you for all you have done. As the only Fist element here not in temporary custody, Miss Prudence, I believe that puts you in charge of the whole entire force arrayed before us. Have any thoughts on how to handle things from here?"
Anna Morphe (Hugh C) -- AC 24/17/21 - HP 41/48 -- CMD 18 d20+11=26 Monday February 15th, 2016 3:27:39 PM
"We should see to the fallen." Anna opines.
"As for after that? Is there any precedent, do we have to sue for peace with Alithmar?" She asks
"I mean the Fist was in the wrong through the actions of Neutronis, when he killed the messenger bearing payment. I would also imagine the razed walls and the lost lives will also result in hefty reparations being levied against us. Hopefully we can remain an organization when all is said and done."
Anna stays near Pru with her over-sized club drawn, but at parade rest. She will do all in her power to protect Pru. She remains vigilant for threats.
Active effects: Longstrider : 3 hours? (+10 base speed) barkskin 60 min - ? (+3 nat armor) shield of faith 12 - 16 min ? : (+4 deflection) bull's strength -47 rounds + ? (+4 strength) greater magic fang - 6 hours (+1 enhance to all natural attacks) shillelagh - 46 rounds + ? (+1 enhancement bonus; 3d6 damage)
AC 24 T 20 F17 CMD 24 (28 v Bull Rush or Trip); HP 25/45 "Tinker" (SteveK) Monday February 15th, 2016 5:17:21 PM
Work done, none of the squad of town defenders to be seen, Tinker returns to where it seems the Agents are gathering. He moves to Prudence and opposite Anna. The Morphling has her Club and Tinker has his Urgrosh. Between the two, he is confident they will be able to see her through any danger as Bean Pole commands the Fist.
Trayvin AC 21/12touch Hp 59/59 Monday February 15th, 2016 6:15:25 PM
"That is a fair question, cleric of Jancaissis. What is your name?"
"You see, the Fist here who were following Neutronis were breaking the law. And those Fist who opposed him were upholding the law of the land, but broke Fist law. By some accounts every last one of us should be hanged. But know this, the gods of the Wold are watching closely today. And I believe they shall judge fairly based on our actions. So follow your heart young cleric, and let the stars fall where they may."
"Now then, if you are up to it, let us continue to render aid to those whom we can help, and say final prayers for those whom we can't."
Trayvin continues to help organize taking care of the wounded and the dead.
Active Effects:(+1 saves from circle) Trayvin: Good Hope (16th level, 32 minute duration) +2att/dmg, saves, skill checks resist energy fire, duration 50min resist fire/10 magic circle against evil(target self), duration 50min 10 foot radius protection from arrows 50 points remaining DR 10/magic vs ranged haste- expired
Spells: 0th- Create Water, Detect Poison, Purify Food and Drink, Stabilize 1st- Bless, Comprehend Languages, Divine Favor, Protection from Evil, Shield of Faith(d) 2nd- Bull’s Strength*, Restoration- Lesser, Resist Energy*, Spiritual Weapon*, Bless Weapon(d) 3rd- Prayer*, Magic Circle Against Evil*, Searing Light(d) *denotes used spell channeling 3/6 remaining*(Roll 1 extra d6 while channeling. At this time, you have an unlimited use of channels. At any time, you may remove this blessing for a single 4d6 channel as a swift action. If you do, your channels go back to normal rules.)
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF15 (ucdodge) HP21/43 Me+12(4), R+12, CMB+10, CMD+21 d20+4=7 ; d20+5=7 ; Monday February 15th, 2016 6:56:52 PM
Michael replies to the Clerics question. Loudly so that all can hear. What crime are you guilty of soldier? You were lied to by your commander and pointed like the arrow you are at what you were told was the enemy. Loyalty to ones commander is not a crime. You are a good soldier and I will be cursed before I let you be punished for the crimes of your leaders. I want you to stop dwelling on that. What I want you to do, and all the rest of you that can hear me as well, is start thinking about how we can get everyone, live, dead and wounded, back to the camp. Pitch in. listen to your non-coms and spread the word that THE FIST IS NOT DEAD! We are going to regroup, make things right and come out of this stronger and better than before.
diplo 7 intimidate 7. ugh...that's not auspicious
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 23 Tch 23 Ffted 20 HP -/38 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Monday February 15th, 2016 10:35:27 PM
Nikolai remains fixed in place and watching the activities below. He still is puzzled at why they are all tethered to the Wold and not on their way, each to his own reward. He can't help but notice the awesome power he sees emanating from the three clerics of Ffloy but does not understand the meaning.
Alemi he understands. His teaching of how to enjoy Life by living a healthy lifestyle both physically, mentally, and spiritually was why Nikolai chose him as it matched his own view of Life for himself despite his father favoring Domi, the patron of Courage. It took great courage for his father to leave the Mailed Fist only after two Tours of Duty but it was Domi that lead the cavalryman to sign up to protect the new mining town of Bryn Baraz. And Gargul, the collector of the Souls, who his own Fist met once before. However of Ffloy he new very little other than his symbol was usually prominent with the merchants the Fist dealt with.
Pondering these thoughts, he began to recollect memories of their meeting with Gargul and his imp. Their Fist Mate Linden had been killed when their Double Fist was defending Hornfoul from a gnoll army. The same gnolls they soon went after in the swamp. The memories are a little fuzzy but he does remember something weird happening to Bliss. Yes, it was through Bliss that they passed through the barrier between the Wold and Gargul's realm. But Bliss left a long time ago.
On the one hand, Nikolai was at peace and glad the fight was over and Alithmar was saved. In his mind, he was sure that through their actions the Mailed Fist would survive and regain it's Honor. On the other hand, he kind of wanted to be a part of that new Mailed Fist. He began to feel torn between knowing he played his part and his time was up and yet still wishing to back with his friends and family...
Prudence Gundle [AC 18; HP 51/51] [Mage Armor] Monday February 15th, 2016 10:41:39 PM
Working at it very hard, Pru manages to keep an outward calm. Inside, she is screaming, I'm 18 years old, for Ffloy's sake! Surely somebody else can sort this out!
But, like it or not, she's the one everyone is looking to. She can almost hear her mother say, Do as you're bid, Prudence, and don't fuss about it.. Right.
"As Anna said, we should start by tending to the wounded and gathering the fallen. Also, if you have the means to do so, I would ask that you keep Neutronis under lock and key until we can figure out what to do with him. I don't believe there's anyone left of a high enough rank to try him. At some point, I would appreciate it if one of you could prepare a Sending spell for Knight-Captain Palance. The soldiers who are not injured--on both sides--let them put down their weapons and assist with the wounded and the fallen. We can sort the rest out later."
She's afraid that didn't sound very leader-y, but it's the best she can do under the circumstances.
Thak Val Zsing (Lewis) - AC 17 - 14/54 HP - Haste Monday February 15th, 2016 11:55:48 PM
Thak doesn't answer Neutronis. He looks to Pru; "I'll find 'im 'is cell, ma'am." He offers a small, bloodied smile. "If'n you'll take some advising words, do 'tever you need to t'keep everyone happy 'fore the top-fellas arrive to make everyone punished or poor. Moisten throats, blanket beds, calm angers." He does a quick little half-bow, then with some others' help takes Neutronis back to the army camp and finds a empty common fighter's tent, shackling him securely to the pole; he keeps a steely eye on any who would interfere with his prisoner.
The heat of battle finally faded, he eyes up Neutronis and almost opens his mouth- but keeps it closed, and lets his thoughts be his own. Commander... had I been up when you fell down, I'd have brought the axe to your neck myself. If I do it now... I can't do it now. No one to see, no way for it to be right, to be lawful.
Too much mercy all round... this was nearly a sacked city, an end to a private empire of tens of thousands, the start of another. Too much mercy means injustice to the fallen, those who would have fallen...
Curse it... I'm agreeing with those puffed-up monkeys who sentenced my father.
Nothing for it. I stay for the rest of me; after some leave though. Find a wife; Agnis in that tavern always seemed amenable to an understanding...
Not allowing his thoughts to compromise his vigil, Thak stands, on guard.
------------------------------ Edited by ACDM RobC for language
Enough is Enough Tuesday February 16th, 2016 5:00:25 PM
Prudence issues her orders, and men listen. They respond quickly, and she hears her commands echo throughout the ranks of soldiers on both sides. Uriah watches her carefully, but says nothing.
Thak considers giving Neutronis a final sendoff, military justice at it's most blunt, but decides that now is not the time. During battle is the time for battlefield justice. In peace, law of land must prevail.
Anna wonders loudly what comes next. Reparations? Debt? She is unsure of what follows a failed invasion, but she is certain it won't be simple. In that certainty, she is correct.
"I shall handle those matters, young druid." Uriah speaks confidently, and his fellows seem ready to try and squash and arguement on the matter. "I have a divine responsibility to do so. Ffloy is very ... adamant.. in this whole matter."
-----
Trayvins answer to the young cleric was as good a summation of the black and white of the matter as any. As the victors, it was certain that the Aisildurian Empire would set the punishment for the defeated. Before the young cleric can answer, Michael's voice rings loud in interruption.
The young cleric considers both answers, then sighs.
"If the goddess feels Alithmars right to vengeance is worth our lives, they shall have them. If she feels it is unjust, another shall deliver her vengeance on my behalf." He smiles weakly. "Thanks for the new perspective."
Under Pru and Michaels commands, the wounded are gathered into the tents outside of the city, mostly for safety from retalliation from unhappy residents of Alithmar. The remaining troops are disarmed, and most are tasked with setting up more temporary shelters.
One by one the tendrils of power from the clerics of Floy travel up the tethers of each floating spirit. Whispers on the wind fill Nikolai's ears, even though his tendril has not yet been reached.
"Many oaths. So many oaths. Some broken. Many upheld. Many shatted.... so many lives.. lives lost from BROKEN OATHS."
The words follows Nikolai as he floats midair.
"Explain your actions, Son of the Fist. Did you break Oath to Neutronis? Neutronis did he break Oath to you? Are both guilty?
The sailors who landed have finished anchor and are now unloading hundreds of marines. A shore delegation, who identify themselves as delegates of the Aisildurian Empire, demand an audience with Prudence. It doesn't take long for things to devolve.
"Only unconditional surrender is acceptable!", he screeches. "All of you are criminals. Every one of you will be hanged!"
AC 24 T 20 F17 CMD 24 (28 v Bull Rush or Trip); HP 25/45 "Tinker" (SteveK) Tuesday February 16th, 2016 5:39:54 PM
Tinker keeps at his post, both relaxed and alert as taught when performing guard duty. He remains at Prudence's side, until hearing the pre-emotive caterwauling from the guy from the ships. He bristles and tightens his grip on his urgrosh. "Not like most of em are criminals anyways; only those who deliberately broke the law. Nutronis even using the name of the Fist was illegal."
He doesn't mutter very hard, only ready to back up Prudence's play, whatever it will be.
Trayvin AC 21/12touch Hp 59/59 Tuesday February 16th, 2016 6:39:01 PM
Trayvin shakes his head at the Aisildurian commander. They never learn. The Aisildurians may have a right to justice, but demanding it of an army, even one recently weakened and finished of battle strikes him as not very wise.
Trayvin moves close to Prudence and nods his willingness to support her. "I think the clerics of Ffloy may have something to say on this matter. If it wasn't for them, your city would be a smoking ruin right now. And those you wish to hang include those who defended your city, for no pay, and no promise of mercy whether they won or lost."
Prudence Gundle [AC 18; HP 51/51] [Mage Armor] d20+10=13 ; d20+10=27 ; Tuesday February 16th, 2016 7:12:46 PM
Pru takes a deep breath. The Why me? in her head is subsiding to a dull whimper.
"Sir," she says. "Let's all strive for calm. The gods are watching what we do; let us not disappoint them." She gestures to the battlefield, where the dead are still being collected. "Surely there has been enough death here today. Must we add to the total? Is that justice? If you hang us all, it will not rebuild your walls. It will not stop the crying of those widowed and orphaned. It will not refill your coffers, or heal the land. It will just be more death.
"You have been wronged. I don't think anyone here would disagree with that. You treated in good faith, and you were cruelly betrayed. The man who betrayed you is now under lock and key. He will face justice. But the man who betrayed you, also betrayed them," she gestures again, this time to the living soldiers going wearily about their task. "He betrayed us. He betrayed his solemn oath, and in so doing, betrayed the gods themselves. We are all here because of his many betrayals.
"Our commanders are dead, or absent, or under arrest. I have precious little authority. But here's what I would like.
"I would like Alithmar's vengeance to be limited to the man responsible, and his close confederates. I would like to see the rest of the Mailed Fist work to repair the damage that has been done here. We are not masons or carpenters, but we can clear away rubble. We are not nursemaids, but if any of the recently orphaned want to find their purpose with us, we will gladly take them in. We are not merchants, but we can and should pay reparations. We are not farmers--well," a wry smile, "not anymore. But we can help clear the land if given direction. We would, of course, have to negotiate the specifics. But does that not sound better than more meaningless death?"
[Diplomacy 27; used a Hero point to re-roll.]
Anna Morphe (Hugh C) -- AC 24/17/21 - HP 41/48 -- CMD 18 Tuesday February 16th, 2016 7:28:21 PM
Anna adds, "I am not a farmer either sir, but I may be able to bestow Eberyon's or Ma'ab's blessing upon the what crops are planted. Just as Eberyon was granted the opportunity to atone for his transgressions instead of being put to death, please allow the Fist to atone for its transgressions instead of being put to death."
Anna holds steady near Pru, ready to defend her new Thumb to the death if need be.
Active effects: Longstrider : 3 hours? (+10 base speed) barkskin 60 min - ? (+3 nat armor) shield of faith 12 - 16 min ? : (+4 deflection) bull's strength -47 rounds + ? (+4 strength) greater magic fang - 6 hours (+1 enhance to all natural attacks) shillelagh - 46 rounds + ? (+1 enhancement bonus; 3d6 damage)
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+11(4), R+11, CMB+10, CMD+20 d20+13=23 ; Tuesday February 16th, 2016 7:28:31 PM
Michael, near Pru for this meeting with the Aisildurian delegation, Smiles up at the pretentious mule.
Since Pru is in command, he keeps quiet. but he can almost see the heartseed under the mans tunic.
The hair rises up on the back of his neck and the buzz starts. He begins to reconnoiter the troop arrangement. He said he would be cursed before he let these abominations have any of his men, perhaps what he should have said was that he lay dead on their blood drained corpses before he would let it happen. His hand rests casually on the hilt of his rapier, as his eyes, cold as a sharks, stare at the delegate.
perception 23.
Thak Val Zsing (Lewis) - AC 17 - 14/54 HP - Haste Tuesday February 16th, 2016 9:27:18 PM
Hearing the susurration of tension whispering through the remains of the camp, Thak gribs the hilt of his knife and stands near the entrance to the tent, half-covered by the flaps, ready to defend his prisoner.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+11(4), R+11, CMB+10, CMD+20 Tuesday February 16th, 2016 9:53:51 PM
OH and before we get to meeting, and possibly killing, the Aisildurian reps, Michael supervises the confiscation of all of Unruks and Neutronis equipment. since nobody else was doing it.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 23 Tch 23 Ffted 20 HP -/38 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Tuesday February 16th, 2016 11:08:07 PM
Nikolai hears the whispers before he himself is addressed. "Explain your actions, Son of the Fist. Did you break Oath to Neutronis? Neutronis did he break Oath to you? Are both guilty?
Nikolai would swallow hard before answering if he could. Or take a deep breath, if he could. But once the question sinks in, his spirit turns red in anger and he blurts out his answer. "I swore an oath to the Mailed Fist. I was assigned to Commander Constance. My Commander disagreed with Commander Neutronis and broke from his command. She in turn gave me and my Fist an assignment to try to stop Neutronis one way or another. I had no Oath to Neutronis once he broke the Mailed Fist Code of Honor. So NO! I broke no Oath, but upheld my Oath to the True Mailed Fist. and YES! Neutrnois did break Oath to me by corrupting his title of Grand Marshal of the Mailed Fist and murdering the messenger for Alithmar as a pretense to justify his military ambitions. I swore an Oath to uphold the Virtues of the Mailed Fist Code of Honor and joined in Alithmar's defense to uphold that Oath. I lived for the Fist and died for the Fist. The True Fist!"
Once he got it all out, he felt better. His speech would look real good on his tombstone. Unfortunately, ghosts can't write these things down on paper to pass it on to his friends.
Anna Morphe (Hugh C) -- AC 24/17/21 - HP 41/48 -- CMD 18 Wednesday February 17th, 2016 10:10:45 PM
Anna waits for what the delegation has to say.
(OOC: Checking in b4 bed)
Ffloy Settles His Debts. Wednesday February 17th, 2016 10:13:04 PM
The Alithmar delegation doesn't seem to intent on listening to Prudence. They take what they assume to be an excuse or shouldering of blame, and prepare to write her off.
Then she speaks. Quiet, humble, prudent Prudence explains the situation, and the pompous men from an indifferent empire shaped on the eschewing of emotion for smothering peace... they stop and listen. What Prudence had to say did not take long, but it made an apparent mark upon the mens judgement. With a request for an audience with Uriah and the town leadership, they leave.
The day moves quickly. After a time, members of town guard and regimental leadership relieve the Fist Members of their posts. Soldiers are arranged, but not buried, at the request of Uriah. A sending spell is sent to Constance Palance, by none less than Pavillion Neutronis.
Hours later, near nightfall, Knight Captain Palance is walking the fallen walls of Alithmar. She gather Thak, Anna, Prudence, Tinker, Michael and Trayvin in a tent she now claims as her own. Upon meeting, she is generous with her praise.
"Your actions, and those of your fallen brethren, are perhaps the single thread by which the Mailed Fist now hangs. You have likely saved the lives of thousands of the Fist, who in all likely hood would have been assaulted by Aisildurian regiments inside of their Citadels.
The clerics of Ffloy and Alithmar have nearly finished their negotiations, and we have lost much. The Mailed Fist will no longer be an army in it's own right. Each Regiment must disband, and may keep no more than one hundred operatives in any one region. Several citadels will be dismantled, including those of the Tiger and the Bear. Our revenue and power will greatly diminsih, and we must pay reparations forever, on the anniversary of the attack, in the same amount that we were to be paid for our maneuvers. Instead, the Fist will focus on maintaining small units of elite men and women, and even offer our training to members at large, a new program for us. We still have a lot of experience to offer, we may as well charge for it."
She pauses, appearing to run some numbers in her head.
"Neutronis will be hung at dawn, along with every officer who has had personal knowledge of our betrayal to these people. Neutronis gave no names, but apparently F'floy has been watching this situation, and no help was needed from the former Grand Marshal." Constance shudders. "I'm not comfortable with the thought of a God monitoring everything we do, but it makes sense he would. Many of our soldiers have always prayed to him for guidance."
She sighs and motions for you to stand at ease.
"I have been asked to replace Neutronis as Grand Marshal. I have refused. The Citadel is my home, and there I will stay as it's Knight Captain. Instead, Knight Captain Merina Swain, will take his place. She has a head for secrecy and subterfuge, and should fit nicely into the slot left by Pavillion."
She offers some papers to each member, including one she hands to Prudence with Nikolai's name.
"Promotions, for each of you. Thak and Anna have been officially moved into our camp, even though we are no longer a Regiment, we will keep the moniker of Wolf Company. You also have letters of retention, though you may refuse them. We are drawing down by close to 85% of our current force numbers. Only a select few may stay."
She smiles. "Congratulations, Sergeants." Her smile fades a little as she looks at Nikolai's papers. We are working to get a Cleric on his resurrection. It's a shame he won't be there to see Pavillion hang."
-----------------------------------------------
Constance Palance was very rarely wrong. It was just that sometimes, her information was dated.
Dusk comes, and the sky is blood red. The questions and whispers have probed for hours. Not just for Nikolai, but for all the spirits still tethered to the battle. Grueling questions, dissecting the minutia of every decision that led them to this moment. After hours of questioning, the first tether breaks. It snaps on an old soldier, one who was quick to change sides multiple times in the battle, whenever it seemed one side or the other was close to victory. Screaming, he is pulled into a massive dark void in the middle of the sky. One by one, tethers snap. Only after dozens of men are sent screaming into the dark, does one constrict, yanking the spirit of a Alithmar defender back into his body.
Nikolai waits, and finally the voices answer.
"You have been found true to your contracts and deeds. Innocent of breaking oaths! True to word and deed! Remember this, Ffloy has many followers among those who live by the word of the script. The holy contract! Do not break thy bond to him, though you do not recognize it's lien against your ilk! Those who know the fate that awaits are punished worse than the ignorant. Interest will be collected, should you be found in default!"
With a sickening pull, Nikolai careens towards his body, and in a sudden gasp, is awake and alive once more, aware of the cries of alarm from the living, as those who were dead join them again!
Constance Palance, in the tent, is still lamenting that Nikolai will miss the hanging of former Grand Marshall Pavillion Neutronis. Constance was rarely wrong, and tonight, her information was certainly dated. Nikolai would miss nothing.
------------------------------------
Inside the tent, the Agents hear the yells of joy and alarm as comrades rise again.
Prudence Gundle [AC 18; HP 51/51] [Mage Armor] Wednesday February 17th, 2016 10:57:22 PM
"Thank you, ma'am," Prudence manages to choke out as she receives her own papers and Nikolai's. She's not sure what to do with his, but she's not going to give them up.
When the shouts and cries start up, she turns toward them. "Oh, no," she says. "Not more bad news."
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 23 Tch 23 Ffted 20 HP -/38 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Thursday February 18th, 2016 1:19:39 AM
Nikolai could watch what was going on but not hear. It was very annoying. He puzzled as to why they were all still tethered to the Wold. From the question he received it appeared that Ffloy was doing his own Judgement before sending them on to Gargul. The god of the Dead would then dispatch them to their final resting place, or unresting place, according to that Judgement.
He felt confident Justice would be served in each case and if the god was truly watching, would have no doubt of his innocence in this matter. So, when the tethered finally broke, he fully expected to be sent to Alemi's court. It was a shock to wake up gasping and feeling true pain again. He ached all over and tasted blood in his mouth. This was NOT what a spirit should feel!
He sat up and looked around. There were others doing the same. Not many, but enough that the soldiers looking after the dead were in an uproar. A thought suddenly occurred to him. Could they be thinking that we are returning as Undead?
"Don't be afraid! Ffloy has seen to it that we return. Alive and well I might add!" he blurts out. Zombies don't tend to speak coherently so he hoped that would be enough to dispel any fears of an Undead horde about to attack.
OOC: are we back fully healed?
Thak Val Zsing (Lewis) - AC 17 - 14/54 HP - Haste Thursday February 18th, 2016 8:31:00 AM
Thak salutes. "My honor, ma'am. I'll take t'retention; though 'n a month or two when all's calm, would 'ppreciate a meeting to discuss some leave."
------------------------------
Keeping to his chosen guardpost outside Neutronis' cells, Thak listens from afar to the cries of the risen dead. He wonders if they give Neutronis comfort. He wonders if anything does.
He begins picking out a spot to watch the hanging.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+11(4), R+11, CMB+10, CMD+20 Thursday February 18th, 2016 12:12:58 PM
Michael is distraught and relieved at his Knight Captains words. The Fist will remain, his home at least is secure. When the yells of alarm ring out Michael is out of the tent like a shot! He sees the bodies of the men newly slain rising from the ground and after a moments pause he heads for the body of his Sargent..Nikolai.
He hears him before he see him and a smile of childhood glee comes over him. He finds him standing and still rubbing at the spot where Neutronis blade pierced his chest.
He pulls up, resisting the urge to hug the half elf around the legs, and stands at attention while rendering a crisp salute. Officer on Deck! Sargent Michael Wittman reporting for Duty Sir! Good to have you back Lieutenant Komanov. I think the rest of the Crew and the Knight Captain Palance would like to see you!
the feeling overwhelms him and he loses all composure to a laugh that begins as a giggle and works it's way into a full on fit, eventually dissolving into the tears he has left un shed, for all that was worked for, all that was lost and all that was saved.
Anna Morphe (Hugh C) -- AC 24/17/21 - HP 41/48 -- CMD 18 Thursday February 18th, 2016 2:31:03 PM
Anna says to Pallance, "Thank you ma'am. I would like to stay on as an Agent. I may have to consult my deities though as to how I can best support operations moving forward. I had an interesting dream. Queen Ma'ab visited me and she offered to give a gift, but it will change the nature of what I can do. I am inclined to accept her offer, but I wanted to give the Fist a heads up, first."
Anna is overjoyed to have Nikolai back from the dead, she had already rehearsed what she would tell Gargul when they petitioned the Lord of Death for their friend's return.
She goes to her returned Thumb,snaps a salute and says, "I'm sorry I failed you sir. I didn't take into account all possible actions I had available. I knew he was heavily armored and my attack was useless against him, but I probably could have distracted him enough to allow you to dodge his sword. I will be more mindful in future battles. Had I not gone for the glory perhaps you needn't have died. I will try to look for the best strategic option moving forward."
AC 24 T 20 F17 CMD 24 (28 v Bull Rush or Trip); HP 25/45 "Tinker" (SteveK) Thursday February 18th, 2016 4:52:43 PM
Tinker is secretly glad the Angry Alisdurians are mollified by Prudence. "A honey tongue you have, for all that it was the bare truth", he tells Prudence. The dwarf knows he wouldn't have done half so well. The rest of the day is with Prudence, and the sudden appearance of Captain Constance Palance is not much of a surprise. Though falling asleep on his feet, Tinker stays with the others to listen and receive the letters of retention.
This maker looks at the letter unopened and tries to understand what the Captain is saying. "Sorry, ma'am, but are you saying we of the Agents are free-lance now? You aren't keeping us on?"
Like a punch-drunk fighter who only looks where the last hit came from, Tinker turns at the sound of alarmed shouts. He passes the tent flap and then just stares. In an unbelieving tone, he shouts to those still in the tent. "Some of the dead, they are sitting up, alive again! And... And one of em is Nikolai!"
Weariness forgotten, he joins in the general celebration and the more personal one with the Agents' Thumb, Nikolai Komonov.
Trayvin AC 21/12touch Hp 59/59 Thursday February 18th, 2016 10:52:15 PM
Trayvin goes to check on those who have been returned by Ffloy. He is glad to see that Nikolai is among them. "Welcome back. And here I thought we were going to have to argue on your behalf with Gargul. Personally, I'm glad we didn't have to, he can be tempermental. It looks like the Fist is going to survive this, but it won't be the same as it was."
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 23 Tch 23 Ffted 20 HP -/38 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Friday February 19th, 2016 1:02:47 AM
OOC: checking in.
Nikolai does not hesitate once his friends give their salute and report. He give them a big Group Hug!
Ffloy Settles His Debts. Friday February 19th, 2016 1:05:46 AM
Trayvin was more correct than he could know, and the first change came at dawn. But first, Palance explained herself again to Tinker.
"No. I am offering you the first contracts among a few. If you wish to stay with the Fist, you will remain as Agents. The designation won't have as much meaning, other than a testament to your pedigree of training and success. We won't have the manpower we did before, so all units will likely be mixed types like yours from here on out. You don't have to stay, but if you do, I'm recommending you all stay with me in Wolf Regime.. well.. Wolf Company, at The Citadel."
Thousands of men, arranged from both sides of the field, stood at attention as Constance Palance, Merina Swain, Uriah of Ffloy, and an Aisildurian general walked solemnly towards the large wooden gallows that had been constructed overnight.
Pavillion Neutronis, his generals, and his officers found guilty of conspiracy waiting with sack-cloths over their heads, already paired with nooses. The gallows was constructed over the deepest of the rifts gouged into the ground, wide enough to simultaniously hang 16 officers of the Fist.
Merina Swain was a pretty woman. Jet black hair, blue eyes, and fair skin. She is short, and dressed in a fitted officers uniform, wearing the silver sash of the Grand Marshall. Walking a step in front of the others, she carries an old dirk in her hand.
"Pavilion Neutronis. You and your officers have been found guilty. Guilty of murder, guilty of treason, guilty of war crimes, guilty of misappropriation of Fist funds, guilty of basically every offense we can find you guilty of. Today, you are called to account for the loss of too much life. You are called to account for the destruction of our Mailed Fist, and called to account for the deaths of your co-conspirators, who are guilty of a crime they would not have fathomed without you."
She looks at those gathered, then nods to the noose-man, who begins fitting ropes over the necks of the arrayed men. He nods to Merina, who crosses to him and begins to check them herself.
She goes through the names, checking each man or womans noose, then makes it to Neutronis. She adjusts the back of his briefly, then continues.
"Former Grand Marshal Pavillion Neutronis. Guilty. Sentence: Death."
A muffled reply comes from beneath his mask, and she shakes her head sadly.
"No Pavillion. You've lost the right to speak to anyone here as a superior."
Walking to the edge of the Gallows, she cuts the support rope, and the floor takes a sixty foot fall, and 16 bodies snap to the ends of their line. Fifteen of sixteen nooses function correctly, snapping the necks of their charges. The sixteenth, that of Pavillion, jostles and kicks like a dragon has been caught on a fishing line.
Pavillion struggles with his noose, kicking and spinning, hacking for breath and flinging spittle from his lips. Gasping sobs for air echo over the chamber of Ffloy's justice. Hushed gasps race through the onlookers. Merina Swain points angrily at the Noose-man.
"Fix this!", she commands. But there is nothing he can do, the chasm is too wide.
Only after the sharp sound of a crossbow clacking, does Neutronis stop his struggle to die. A bolt juts through his heart, placed expertly by Knight Captain Constance Palance. She glares at Merina, who regards her cooly, before turning on a heel and departing with her guards.
Uriah steps forward with his priests, and finishes a prayer. The chasm stretches wider for just a brief moment, and the constructed gallows and hung traitors fall into the gap below. Then, with a gesture, all the rends in the land are healed, sealing Neutronis and his co-conspirators in an earthy tomb.
-----------
End of Module!
All Agents, up to level 7!
As reward for capturing Neutronis, Palance awards you both he and Unruks gear!
The following is a list of loot you recover.
Pavillions Gear.
+2 Bastard Sword +1 Vicious Lance +1 Mithril Chainmail The Lion Shield (Specific Item) Amutlet of Natural Armor +1 Cloak of Resistance +2 Ring of Protection +1
Unruk's Gear
+2 Greataxe +1 Breastplate
Other Treasure
Pavillion's Battle Standard (Might have some value to a collector) Pavillion's Lucky Ring (1000 gp value) Unruk's Battle Standard (Might have some value to a collector)
12,000 in coin
AC 24 T 20 F17 CMD 24 (28 v Bull Rush or Trip); HP 25/45 "Tinker" (SteveK) Friday February 19th, 2016 5:39:41 AM
Tinker has see death in the heat of combat and the slow death from that year illness ran through the streets of his hometown. He has seen punishment in the harsh school of Fist training with public beatings and other measures, so he forces himself to stay stoic at the very public end of the leaders of the conspiracy.
When Nutronis' noise doesn't work right, Tinker moves, unslinging his crossbow, but Captain Palance is faster, almost as if she were expecting ... Nah, Couldn't be.
Afterwards,he sits with his battle mates, and he comes to realize, friends, around a small fire and picking at what should be lunch. The rewards before them, Nikolai beside them, and a decision awaiting them that seems harder than it should be. "So... Agents or Freelance?"
Anna Morphe (Hugh C) -- AC 24/17/21 - HP 41/48 -- CMD 18 Friday February 19th, 2016 2:24:33 PM
"I'd like to remain an agent, but I need to seal my deal with Ma'ab first. I would have to imagine that I will probably be a little different after I accept her gift." Anna says.
"Are we still looking to recruit those hungry griffons to our cause? Would those be allowed in the restructuring of the Fist following the agreements after what transpired here or would Griffons be considered living weapons of mass destruction?" Anna asks.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+11(4), R+11, CMB+10, CMD+20 Friday February 19th, 2016 5:23:40 PM The Fist is my home, but you guys are my family. I'd like to stay, I feel that Captain Palance will need us going forward, What remains of the Fist will need good men to keep her afloat and bring back our good name. Speaking of Palance, I need to go speak to her.
Michael throws the remains of his beer in the fire, dusts off his pants and walks toward the Knight Captains tent. He approaches the night guard and expresses his wish to talk to his Commanding officer.
once he is allowed entrance he stands at attention before his Captain and renders a crisp salute.
Sargent Michael Wittman, Utilizing the Open Door policy Ma'am, I have a couple of things that may be of interest to the Fist and may help us head off future trouble. I would have brought them to your attention during the meeting earlier but...well when Lieutenant Komonov came back...things got pushed to the back.
[b]1st off ma'am. As we were travelling, I guess we were about a good 2 days from Delume, we were engaged by a pride of Griffons. My Mule was killed in the engagement, but they weren't after us, they were starving. once my mule was down they backed off and simply waited for us to leave. I'd like to try and recruit the pride to The Fist. If we are going to start emphasizing Quality over Quantity in this outfit I think that having some Griffon mounts would be a great benefit to the organization. So I'm asking if you think it might be a good idea, I'm sure we could do it. It would be kind of nice to do something to help build the fist up...instead of...well...you know...
2nd order of business Ma'am. Pavillion was the worst thing that ever happened to this organization, but he was trying to fix a problem that is kind of the 900 lb Ogre in the room. We don't have a home. We are a family in a lot of ways. shoot, The Fist is my family. But we exist at the suffrage of other nations. We are beholding to their laws, by fist code. and should they have no need of us we are dumped out like yesterdays trash. It may be closing the barn door after the horses get loose, but I think there is an answer to this dilemma, and I think it may involve..Cthonia. It has no central government. it's wide open but it has seas on each side, it's slap dab between The Float and Plateau City. It's Dangerous, yes. but there is a steady income to be made guarding the Trade route. If we want to be a Lean and Mean fighting force, I'm thinking that it will offer massive opportunities for "good training? Lots of wild beasts. Mesas, so we could train up mountain troops, sea and ocean access as well as river access, so we can raise up a salt and freshwater navy. More importantly...it puts us in a place where we are beholding to no one. it's a place where old soldiers can come to retire. New solders can be vetted and we will finally have a home. and...well you are Calvary...can't you just see the awesomeness of company of lancers on triceratops! I'm certain that we will find other things to help us while we are there. That's all Ma'am, I just thought I'd give you some ideas. We'er gonna need a lot of ideas if the Fist is going to survive this fiasco.
If the Captain has any questions Micheal answers them with honesty and alacrity. Once done he takes his leave with her permission.
Prudence Gundle [AC 18; HP 51/51] [Mage Armor] Friday February 19th, 2016 10:37:13 PM
When Nikolai returns, Pru hugs him back, tears running down her face. In fact, it takes her a while to let go.
She really, really doesn't want to attend the executions, but realizes she has to. For a few terrifying hours, she had been in charge of the Fist here, and people know who she is. Her absence would be noticable, and remarked upon. So she goes, and stands where she's told, flinching as the trapdoors open and the nooses snap tight.
"Oh no," she breathes as Neutronis begins to struggle. She takes an involuntary step forward, but he is out of range of most of her spells, and she doubts that she could do enough damage to put him out of his misery anyway. Fortunately, Knight-Captain Palance is able to handle the situation.
Knees trembling, Pru finds a quiet place to sit down for a moment.
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF15 (ucdodge) HP43/43 Me+11(4), R+11, CMB+10, CMD+20 Saturday February 20th, 2016 12:43:00 AM
Once Michael gets back from his conversation with his Captain, He sets around the fire and enjoys the companionship of his brothers and sister of The Fist.
The Wold has changed, profoundly, and in a way that he cannot fully comprehend. As the night wears on they talk of adventures past, and offer toast to absent companions: Jasper Steelfist (the dwarf, the legend), Bliss(a tiny and odd little halfling), Cameron Honeytamer Steelshaper(too chaotic for the fist, but a good Halfling in a fight) Carver(you should have seen that big centaur use a lance and eat! man could he eat!), Linden Braeburr (Duuude, thats like..not cool...LOL), Braugh Stormbringer(remember when he fought those Skrags in nothing but his underwear!), William the Courageous (Domi I miss that crotchety old fart), Zieluviet lezerth (Man could he build a good bow..Hey! he still owes me one!). Hope Sinclare (Where in the name of Gargul did she go off to?
They talk long into the night, about the Gnoll female and her pups. Gnarlfang: (who was he and where is his treasure now? ) Sgt Timmerik (that man cuts a fine figure of a soldier) Cedric (that old coot has seen a lot, those undead were something though.) Guy the lady with the frying pan (SPLAT! crushed that zombies head like a melon!) Ezra Ian Those Gods cursed Panthenonians (I hate those guys! ) a story teller they met in a tavern somewhere, he told the most amazing stories, What was his name again? Ah yes...it was Ken...Ken Eubanks, perhaps we will meet him again someday. and many others.
The Night wears on, but nobody really wants to be the first to breaks the spell. The morrow may hold danger and ruin for them all but right now...it's good to just sit and talk about old times, old friends and
absent companions.
Thak Val Zsing (Lewis) - AC 17 - 14/54 HP - Haste Saturday February 20th, 2016 10:00:32 AM
Thak grits his teeth and fingers his knife as Palance fires her weapon; but eventually it subsides. This is his home, now.
After it all, he joins in on the fire, raising his tankard when appropriate and commenting on tales of battlefield heroism when necessary. He shirks a little praise, but not very much. He smiles, and doesn't think of his father.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 17 Tch 17 Ffted 14 HP 53/53 CMD 28/30(Grapple) Saturday February 20th, 2016 1:23:54 PM
OOC: Placer post with new Hps so I don't forget!
Shane P Michael Wittman AC22, T18, FF16 (ucdodge) HP52/52 Me+11(7)9 for TW, R+11, CMB+10, CMD+21 Saturday February 20th, 2016 9:41:53 PM
OOC: here is my placer post as well.
AC 24 T 20 F17 CMD 24 (28 v Bull Rush or Trip); HP 25/45 "Tinker" (SteveK) Sunday February 21st, 2016 10:05:33 AM
Tinker joins in with the storytelling, remembering Agents past, and people and situations. "Hey, remember that dream with helping the little guy from the Sargrass? The Manfri, and how he wants chocolate from Weeding City so bad he'll give us each a Steelgrass item of our choice. Prudence still has the whistle", he ends consideringly...
Anna Morphling (Hugh C) -- AC 22/13/19 - HP 49/49 -- CMD 15 Sunday February 21st, 2016 2:00:33 PM
When Anna goes to bed, she is visited by Ma'ab in her dream. She takes Ma'ab up on her offer to become a Morphling, shaking the fey queen's hand.
All of a sudden string starts shooting out of her mouth and she crafts a cocoon around herself.
The next morning when she wakes up she finds herself literally inside a cocoon hanging from a tree. She frees herself from a cocoon and emerges different.
Anna emerges, her muscles not as bulky as they were when she was a druidess, although she finds herself smarter, and less wise. However, she looks more beautiful than she had previously and is wearing mithril full plate.
"I have accepted Queen Ma'ab's offer. I won't be able to change my form for as long as I used to and some of my forms will be more limited but I can do somethings I previously couldn't and there are some things that I could do previously that I can't anymore. I can't cast spells anymore, but Ma'ab allows me to use some magic."
She also has a fine darkwood guitar strapped to her back.
Nikolai (JonathanT) AC 17 Tch 17 Ffted 14 HP 53/53 CMD 26/28(Grapple) Sunday February 21st, 2016 9:31:48 PM
Nikolai hangs on to Pru as long as she lets him. Her tears bring a tear to his eyes also, but is was also tears of pride. He watched Nikolai's Fist become Pru's Fist and how they took command and kept a dicey situation from rolling a 1 and coming up with a 20.
He watches the execution with only a hint of remorse. As each one drops he ponders at what point did Neutronis start to have his ambitions? Was it always there? Was it something that simply grew as he grew in power? Maybe the burdens of his position just messed his brain up? He knew that kings and queens can be crazy but that's usually due to ... same thing? Power?
After the execution is over, he approaches Commander Constance aside and asks, "Pru was promoted to Thumb. My return to the living should not change that. She earned the position and no one really could know that I was to return to the Living. She should keep it. I will gladly abide to whatever decision you make on this matter."
Nikolai reminisces with his friends over the campfire, bringing up one little detail or another of their adventures. He comments on how each foe they met they tried to be fair and just, except for the undead, of course. "All that may have been the gods preparing us for this moment. If we had been ruthless during those times, things may not have turned out as well here."
He does worry about their future a little bit. "The Mailed Fist needs steadfast loyal members. Leaders. I see that we are needed as much now to keep things in order and give examples as ever before. My vote is to stay with Commander Constance and give her our support now just as we did when all this started. It would be a big moral crusher if we decided to go freelance."
Nikolai is impressed by Anna's change but does not really understand what the differences will be. The cocoon was weird though. Had he not seen when it all started he'd have been compelled to cut it open to save her. That would have been awful! Good thing she gave some warning as it started to happen!
To answer Tinker's suggestion, he says, "Well, we can't put it off forever. It would be a good diversion for us after all that happened here. It's a group vote, though. What do you guys think? Go for the chocolate now or hold off on that for later?"
Thak Val Zsing (Lewis) - AC 16 - 64/64 HP Monday February 22nd, 2016 1:25:27 AM
Thak works to buoy the Fist's spirits with some drill practice, taking the survivors through practice combat and combination-drills; the thud of blunted wood on cloth and armor rings out from the field again and again. Breathing hard, he finds his stubby dwarven frame extending to new heights of flexibility, landing blows one foes thought long gone and safe.
Come the cocoon, he watches the transformation suspiciously, even as he feels his own fey touch growing from his proximity to the change. The nature of his connection, he muses- competitive, not cooperative.
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