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Shining Force Central Forums > RPG Gallery > Shining Force: The Chaos War Part IV

Posted by: Rusty Wed Sep 19, 2007 8:29 pm
((Ombligo. Move to the square north of where Kria is on the map. Casting Arcane Fusion. What Arcane Fusion essentially does is let me use a 1st level spell and a 4th or lower level spell simultaneously, burning only 5th level spell slot to do this. It's from Complete Mage, in case you were wondering. They keep their saves/DCs as if they were cast at their actual level, so the Lightning Lance will stay at a DC of 23. Target 2 Lightning Lances and the Magic Missile at the Big Robot. Target one Lightning Lance at the Chaos near it. The Lightning Lances are ranged touch attacks.
Lightning Lance #1: (Big Robot)
Roll to hit...16 + 6 [BAB] + 2 [DEX] + 1 [size] + 1 [Haste] = 26. Hit!
Impact Damage: 5 6 3 = 14
Electricity Damage: 4 5 1 4 6 6 6 1 5 5 = 43 electric
Thunderbolt Damage: 4 sonic
FORT save DC 23 to halve the electricity damage only
FORT save DC 23 to negate possible stun effect
Lightning Lance #2: (Big Robot)
Roll to hit...8 + 6 [BAB] + 2 [DEX] + 1 [size] + 1 [Haste] = 18. More than likely hits.
Impact Damage: 2 5 6 = 13
Electricity Damage: 6 5 3 6 5 1 3 3 2 3 = 37 electric
Thunderbolt Damage: 4 sonic
FORT save DC 23 to halve the electricity damage only
FORT save DC 23 to negate possible stun effect
Lightning Lance #3: (Chaos)
Roll to hit...15 + 6 [BAB] + 2 [DEX] + 1 [size] + 1 [Haste] = 25. Hit!
Impact Damage: 4 4 5 = 13
Electricity Damage: 1 6 5 2 1 6 6 4 3 4 = 38 electric
Thunderbolt Damage: 4 sonic
FORT save DC 23 to halve the electricity damage only
FORT save DC 23 to negate possible stun effect
Magic Missile: (All five on the Big Robot)
4 3 4 4 4 = 19
That MM.))
*Ombligo floats towards Kria, his form glowing for a moment as two spells are cast simultaneously. He lunges lances of lightning into the two robots while a series of magical missiles fly into the larger machine.*

Posted by: Aldur Wed Sep 19, 2007 8:34 pm
"You? You will make sure of it?" Fasher asks. "Are you immortal? Do you intend to stand guard for millenia upon millenia? Will you face the gods themselves?" "Blah blah blah, I failed and can't handle losing. Blah blah Big evil dragon thing. Blah blah it's all everyone else's fault. Who the heck are you, to like...judge? What gives you the right?"
"Power gives me the right!" Fasher hisses. "Knowledge gives me the right!"
"Cool! So um, where did you get that power and knowledge exactly? I mean like, fair enough if you did it yourself but you're kinda pathetic, leeching power off others and then judging them no?"
"The only power I have not of my own will is this wretched form the Lords of Strife imprisoned me in!" Fasher snarls.
"And enslaving the minds of others rather than doing it yourself doesn't seem the tiniest bit unfair?" Kria rolled her eyes, and then grinned. "Anyway, I'm the current high priestess of a cult that worshiped that dragon, but I'm trying to change the focus of our religion. I can't let you not give me the chance of that you see. So can you please die now?"
"Little cat, I'm already dead!" Fasher says with a laugh.
"Then get back in your grave! Were you this, um, what's that word? pedantic when you were alive as well? Gods! No wonder you're so angry! I doubt you had any friends!"
"I'll return to the grave in good time... But you certainly won't send me there!"
"Well, it may not directly be me you're right there but you'll always be wrong. So you're always gonna lose."
"We shall see."
"Like, shouldn't you be laughing insanely to yourself now?"
"Insanely? No... Merely at your own incompetence."
"Says the man who judges everything while never actually going to see it."
"I see enough."
"Hah, you're silly. You have to go out there and see it personally, meet people, feel the wind, pick up a flower...interact with the world. You're like, not a machine."
"By the Powers, your chattering is endless!" Fasher finally yells.
Kria giggles at this. "Yeah, I talk alot, but It's good to talk. Lets you get to know people, ya know? Anyway. I think you should stop this. But like, you're not gonna. You ancients are so stubborn. WE ARE OLD AND WISE AND LIKE, KNOW EVERYTHING. SUBMIT MORTALS FOR WE ARE COOL!" Kria snorted. "Boooorrriiinnngg!"

Posted by: Knight_019 Wed Sep 19, 2007 10:14 pm
*Aurik counts his blessings that only one of the multitude of shot barrages of at him was able to find its mark. While his wounds stung, there was still much work to do. Faralon's attempt on an Gilliam led him to believe that his friend had been dominated in some way, possibly by Fasher. Aurik runs back toward his friend and reaches a hand out to him.*
: Come back to the light, my friend!
*Though Faralon squirms from Aurik, he is unable to dodge Aurik's touch. Aurik lays a hand on Faralon's shoulder and stares intently into his eyes, hoping that with their combined wills Faralon could once again try to break free of this control.*
((Aurik moves next to Faralon again and casts Resurgence.
Faralon immediately receives another saving throw against the Domination effect, and he will receive a +2 bonus from Aurik's aura.))

Posted by: Rusty Wed Sep 19, 2007 10:49 pm
((Saved pass, finally. >_< All I needed was a 2.)) *Coming to his senses thanks to Aurik's spell, Faralon shakes his head. He had shot an ally. Anger boils within the elf as his face reflects this.* : "I shot at Gilliam...darnit! Aurik, thank you. Let's make those mongrels pay!"
((Perform: 37, just for kicks))
*Faralon begins to sing, the spell he cast earlier adding harmony to his voice.*
((Using my special to bump this to +10 to Attack and Damage, as well as a bonus on saves vs. Charm and Fear equal to +12. This will last 2 rounds, and then the bonuses will drop to +5. The listed bonuses are morale bonuses.))

Posted by: Kaihaku Thu Sep 20, 2007 2:50 am
Cedric nods his thanks to Aurik and Telanna, though concern flickers in his eyes as he looks at the young druidess. He then turns his attention to the nearby enemy, charging at one of the drowned eye and wacking it good with his hammer. [Attack: 7 + a helluva lot = hit]
[Damage: 37 + + 1 [Elec] + 5 [Sonic]]

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Thu Sep 20, 2007 8:20 am
Some of Cedric's wounds close as Telanna channels energy into them. Tanis also takes this opportunity to drink a healing potion. ((Tanis drinks a Cure Critical Wound potion and heals 30 HP, bringing him back to full.)) Laika charges, but accomplishes little against the mostly bone Drowned Eye, his claws designed for ripping and tearing huge guts, not slick bones. The skeleton laughs.
"What? Is this all you're capable of, primitive?" it asks.
Zook's shots slam into the CHAOS-class assault robot, but fail to destroy it.
Ombligo moves up and calls down more lightning on the Heavy Assault Robot, the electricity dancing around it wreaking enough havoc with its targetting systems that it cannot attack for now. Panels on its side burst open and smoke pours out, the machine heavily damaged.
((All Fort saves except for one Stun save failed.))
Cedric dashes forward and slams his hammer into the Drowned Eye Gilliam struck, once more finishing the foe.
Ashathel calls down a lightning storm upon the Drowned and Torch Eye as he advances, his mastery of the Lesser Bolt spell serving him well.
((Bolt 1 cast. 30 damage to the Torch Eye and the Drowned Eye Ash is near.))
Graigus charges forward, fists swinging as he uppercuts the skeletal soldier.
((Hit. 20 damage.))
"No! I..." the Drowned Eye gets out as he backs up and prepares to fire his weapon. Ash and Graigus are too fast for him though, and slice and smash him down before he can fire.
((5' step back, still doesn't prevent 2 AoOs that finish off the skeleton.))
Gabriel roars as his form bulges and shifts to his bestial aspect, Fasher commanding him to prepare his most devastating attacks.
The Torch Eyes fire, their twin beams sweeping over the group, but striking nothing.
((Nat 1s save thee. And actually...))
Though a hail of gunfire and lasers sweep the battlefield, not a single bullet or beam harms the heroes as they struggle onward.
Kria's blast of acid strikes the psychic general, causing him to growl in frustration
: "Infernal cat... I'll show you my psychokinetic power!" Fasher yells at Kria. A nebulous cloud of ice and cold forms in Fasher's hand and he sends it spiralling at the warlock.
((Quickened Augmented Ice Bolt. 60 cold damage to Kria. Kria passes her Fort save and takes 30 cold damage.))
Fasher laughs madly and his voice echoes around Tanis.
: "You there, the so called Spinner of Fate... Let us see what secrets your mind holds... Heheheheh... Put her on an altar to the Dragon? Hahahahaha... Slept outside and got stabbed to death by a devil? Bahahahahaha... Little mage, your past is a litany of pain! See for yourself..."
As Fasher speaks, one by one, old wounds reopen all over Tanis' body. He recognizes them all, from the Barbazu spear that slew him to the eldritch burns he received from a possessed Kria. Despite all the layers of protections around him, his mind is unable to cope with the painful events each wound dredges up and his strength flows from him even as his blood does. However, a spark of hope and will remains in the mage, and he does not fall.
((Tanis fails his Will save and takes 74 damage from Augmented Recall Agony. Tanis is at 2 HP. Tanis passes his save for massive damage.))
: "Let's end this. Swarm! Summon our reserves," Fasher orders. The Swarm merely nods and speaks words of arcane power.
Brilliant light floods the battlefield as squads of Drowned Eye teleport into the area to reinforce their embattled brethren. Howling with fury, a gigantic mutated monster also appears in front of the heroes. As if that were not enough, two more of the Ancient skeletons appear as the mysterious chutes in the lower corners disgorge them with a puff of air.
Then an all too welcome sight greets the heroes, as familiar faces dash into the room. Isyndel's squad arrives, and not a moment too soon.
: "On your guard, this room is most certainly not clear!" Kyoji shouts. Then he turns to Cedric. "Cedric! The labs have been secured, and as per your orders, we have proceeded on our own initiative to reinforce you."
: "So much the better... Now that you're here, I can crush you all in one fell swoop!" Fasher yells. "Obliterate them, my soldiers!"
http://www.shinola.radh.com/guest/Rusty/MegiddoCommanda04a.PNG
((Post Deadline: Friday afternoon.))

Posted by: Knight_019 Thu Sep 20, 2007 1:17 pm
((I rechecked the chat log, since I have Tanis' current sheet. His will save is +14, not 12, so if he was 1 off, he was actually 1 over. Also, Gabe would have +20 to his will save when he gets his secondary save against Fasher's dominate.))

Posted by: Arcdragnbreth Thu Sep 20, 2007 4:14 pm
((All things said, Gabe's got a +25 after all mods and I rolled a 4 for the save yesterday. I obviously am never going to be able to meet the posting deadlines, so whatever.))

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Thu Sep 20, 2007 5:49 pm
((I can vouch for Arc, please don't let Gabe eat us))

Posted by: Alpha Thu Sep 20, 2007 6:16 pm
((Actually, Tanis' current will save is +24, so I can't believe he'd fail, unless TUM rolled a 1 or something :/ On a different note, I finally have internet again, and I shall be making a post for my turn later on tonight Burning the remaining fate point to pass the save))

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Thu Sep 20, 2007 7:40 pm
Zook sees Isyndel's group arrive, and his face cracks into a wide smile. "Don't suppose you've got an army hidden your pocket, do you?" he calls to the wizardess as he fires into the mutant. ((3 hits. 27+5 holy, 29 + 4 holy, 35 + 6 holy damage))
Telanna mumbles a weak incantation, attempting to summon primal spirits of the earth and use them to block off the pipe the Drowned Eye entered from.
((SNA III, located on the bottom-left entrance pipe. 2 small earth elementals will appear and then immediately block it off.))

Posted by: Alpha Fri Sep 21, 2007 12:59 am
As Fasher uses his power, Tanis’ memories are unleashed into his mind, many so painful he’d tried his hardest to block them out during the Force’s travels. But now… a total unleash. The barbazus’ blades piercing his side… the fires almost immolating him if not for Coventry… his insane mistake at Kria’s village… the darkness of possession… the death of friends… all of it. All at once. And it began to utterly consume him.
No. Not now.
A point of light in the chaos erupting throughout his mind becomes apparent…then… almost clear to the catfolk. This point of light is understanding. Comprehension of what’s happening. It’s an escape of the unleashed horrors.
Taking the opportunity, Tanis uses the point of light as a focus to use his skills to manipulate reality. Tapping into the last reserves of his power enabling him to meddle with probably, the onslaught of memories fade away. The fatespinner is left injured, but not nearly so much as he might have been.
[Use Tanis’ last Fate Point of today to boost his save up to a pass!]
Shaking from the ordeal he’d just gone through, the warmage breathes heavily looking around. He blinks back tears that had begun to form.
: “Yes, I’ve made mistakes, many of them major. But I’m trying my best to make up for them,” he mutters, looking down to the ground, and speaking more to himself than to anyone else. He needs the reassurance.
Focusing once again on the battle raging around him, he throws his arms into the air, casting a powerful spell. His sights on the robot titan still visible behind Aurik’s conjured wall, he sends a discharge of lightning flying towards it, sparks flying wildly. And just like before, it arcs to other targets, though they aren’t actually visible to the fatespinner.
[Burn 2 level 5 spells to cast Chain Lightning. Primary target is the Heavy Assault Robot. It’ll chain to the two Drowned Eye and CHAOS nearby it.
Primiary damage: (12d6 x 1.5[robot]) + 4 = 74 electric damage
Secondary damage: 6d6 + 4 = 24 for the Drowned Eye, 34 for CHAOS]

Posted by: Kaihaku Fri Sep 21, 2007 2:38 am
Cedric smiles coldly, a victorious light shining in his eyes, "Kyoji… Isyndel…" Zook… Faralon… No force in existence can stop us now. The paladin nods in response, "Well done!" He then breaks into another lumbering charge, crashing into a drowned eye with the force of a strong irate human.
[Attack: 17 + helluva lot = hit]
[Damage: 45 + 1 [Elec] + 2 [Sonic]

Posted by: FreedomJu Fri Sep 21, 2007 2:42 am
((Laika charges the DE to the south-east corner. Attack Claw: D20(11) + 12(BAB) + 7(STR) + 10(Music) -5(PA) = 25 Damage Claw: D8(3) + D6(1)fire + 6(STR) + 10(Music) + 10(PA)= 30))

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Fri Sep 21, 2007 2:45 am

QUOTE (FreedomJu @ Thu Sep 20, 2007 9:42 pm)
Errr

To Errr is Lancian, to forgive Divine

Posted by: Tarethen Fri Sep 21, 2007 3:31 am
Having successfully taken down the drowned eye earlier, the centaur took aim on another foe. Giving the battlefield a quick scan, he set his sights on the robot to his north. It had already received some damage, and Farain was determined to finish dismantling the mechanical enemy from a distance.
He reached to his quiver and removed the first arrow, notching it as he lifted his bow, lining up the arrow so that it was pointed directly at the chest of the robot. "I'll rip you apart," he said with a grin on his face as he released the first arrow, it's aim true. The arrow ripped a gaping hole in the chest of the robot, but the centaur was not finished. He quickly took another arrow from his quiver, notched it, and released, destroying the robots right arm. The third arrow destroyed the left arm, and the fourth arrow he shot effectively removed the robot's left leg, causing it to tumble to the ground.
"There. All that's left now is the head." He removed a final arrow from his quiver and took aim at the center of the robots head. "Boom." Farain released the arrow and it slammed into the head of the robot as the head exploded.
"That's one less robot to worry about," he said cheerfully as he lowered his bow, an accomplished smile on his face.
(Hasted plus rapid shot on robot directly north of Farain. All attacks hit. Robot eats a feckton of damage.
Attack rolls were: 43, 30, 33, 41, 37. Damage rolls below.
Attack 1: 75(critical ftw)
Attack2: 22
Attack 3 and 4 were both 24
Attack 5: 26)

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Fri Sep 21, 2007 4:14 am
Partial Update! Gilliam adds his own fire to Zook's and the hail of bullets pounds into the mutant's body, causing it to roar in agony. Tanis' lightning causes the titanic Heavy Assault Robot to detonate in a shower of sparks, shrapnel, and smoke. The bolts of magical electricity don't stop there, though. The CHAOS-class robot and the two newly arrived Drowned Eye also are caught by the spell, leaving them ravaged in the wake of Tanis' magic.
: "You stride there, so cooly confident..." Fasher says to Cedric. "I seem to recall other times you strode over the battlefield so sure of yourself. Tell me, did your martial pride save your mother?"
"Listen worm, perhaps you and I aren't so different..." Cedric replies coldly, "I may not be able to save life but experience has proven that I can bring destruction and you're next on my list... So, say your prayers to whatever god will still hear you."
: "No, paladin..." Fasher says. "Perhaps you are the one who should pray... Except that here only I can hear your prayers. And I'm afraid I will not answer them..."
Cedric is suddenly beset by flashing visions of his past failures, each memory like a knife in his gut.
((Cedric passes his save and only takes 7 Charisma damage from a fully augmented Ego Whip. Cha-bonuses decrease accordingly.))
Cedric winces for a moment, then his eyes narrow, fighting mightily against the attempt on him, "Worm, I've driven away your master, don't think that your pathetic ploys can stop me..."
: “Master? Your willpower is impressive, but your deductive skills need work... Don't mistake me for some shambling minion. I have no master, merely tools. The Strife Lords are a means to an end and nothing more...” Fasher cooly states.
Laika charges the southern Drowned Eye, once more finding that while he is able to deal notable damage, it's nothing like what he's used to.
Farain's arrows drive deep into one of the Assault Robots and cause it to spasm and shudder wildly as sparks burst from its body before falling to the ground, still.
: “Teleport the last of our Ravager prototypes here to deal with this rabble,” Fasher orders. The Swarm nods and speaks another word of arcane power. Two more of the hulking mutants appear in the command center in a flash of light.
: “Give it up. The Ravagers are the purest form of war given flesh by science. You can destroy my soldiers and robots, but you can't hope to defeat all that I have to send against you... I will...”
A loud female laugh suddenly interrupts Fasher in the middle of his speech. Echoing from one of the passageways at the back of the command center, a confident female voice begins to speak.
: “Gloating and rambling on so loud that even we could hear you down the halls of this tomb... Talkin' like you own the world, talkin' like you're unstoppable...” Sheila says from the shadows. “It looks like you've forgotten one important thing...”
: “You managed to break through to this floor?! I'll...”
Don't Give Up!: http://www.shinola.radh.com/guest/Vox/FightforTommorrow.mp3
: “You've forgotten that the heroes always win! Come on, bone-boy! Let's see what you 'n yer men are made of!”
Twin flashes of light burst onto the battlefield. When they recede, two groups of strange looking soldiers arrive, armed and ready to fight.
: “Teleportation complete! Now isn't that more stylish than crashing through the atmosphere in a dropship?” Maria says with a chuckle.
: “Rangers, deploy! Villeta, blast effects, take out that troop cluster before they can move! Strike swiftly, strike now!” Jim orders, giving out directions and advice over the din of battle.
((Tactical Aid: All Rangers gains +3 to hit for 5 rounds. Anyone within audio range of him also gains the bonus. Listen DC:20 nets you the bonus if you're far away.))
From the shadows of the left doorway vaults a blur of black and brown, running towards the assembled skeletons and robots around Fasher.
: “Disabled the limiter! Inputted the code!” Sheila shouts as arcs of blue electricity cover her form for a few seconds accompanied by a low whining sound. The electricity soon subsides from a blazing aura to a spark here and there. “Hypermode, ON! KYAAAA!”
Sheila leaps into the air, firing shot after shot at the CHAOS robot in front of her. Sparking bolts of energy slam into the robot one after the other and cause it to short out and collapse as Sheila lands near it. With impossible speed, Sheila whirls around and fires another trio of shots at the other robot in the distance. Two shots slam into its chest while the third strikes its head and causes it to explode.
((Hit, Hit, Hit, Hit, Hit, Critical hit! EMP rounds, Rapid Shot, and Hypermode used, and with a lot of high rolls, two Chaos bots bite the dust.))
: "Awesome! Two more for the score!" Sheila says with glee as she spins her guns around each finger.
: “Activate emergency security protocols!” Fasher shouts as eight gun turrets slide down from panels in the ceiling.
: "Oooooh, leave the turrets to me, I've already got EMPs loaded an there's not many 'bots left!" Sheila calls to her squad.
Updated Map:
http://img401.imageshack.us/img401/9164/megiddocommanda05ayc1.png
Not pictured, but present on the ceiling: Eight Security Gun turrets.

Posted by: Rusty Fri Sep 21, 2007 4:15 am
*Faralon furrows his brow as the enemies gain reinforcements. No!...Reinforcements...I sure hope the others get here soon. This is getting out of hand... Then, he sees new allies for his side - a force he's never seen before. ...So there ARE others. Interesting...Perhaps we're not facing overwhelming odds after all. He continues his song as he sends a barrage of arrows into the nearest robot.*
((Rapid Shot on the Chaos NE of Faralon. Then, a Haste attack on either the Chaos if it's still alive or the Ravager. If on the ravager, the magic will not include bane unless of course he for some reason would count as a construct. Magic would be lessened to +1 also.
Rapid Shot #1: 19 + 7 [9 BAB - 2] + 4 [DEX] + 3 [magic w/ bane] + 1 [Haste] + 10 [Music] = 44.
Damage: 8 [arrow] + (2 + 6 = 8) [bane] + 3 [magic w/ bane] + 1 [STR] + 10 [Music] = 30.
Rapid Shot #2: 7 + 7 [9 BAB - 2] + 4 [DEX] + 3 [magic w/ bane] + 1 [Haste] + 10 [Music] = 32.
Damage: 6 [arrow] + (6 + 5 = 11) [bane] + 3 [magic w/ bane] + 1 [STR] + 10 [Music] = 31
Rapid Shot #3: 16 + 2 [4 BAB - 2] + 4 [DEX] + 3 [magic w/ bane] + 1 [Haste] + 10 [Music] = 36.
Damage: 5 [arrow] + (2 + 2 = 4) [bane] + 3 [magic w/ bane] + 1 [STR] + 10 [Music] = 23
Haste Attack: 19 + 9 + 4 [DEX] + 3 [magic w/ bane] + 1 [Haste] + 10 [Music] = 46.
Damage: 4 [arrow] + (1 + 6 = 7) [bane] + 3 [magic w/ bane] + 1 [STR] + 10 [Music] = 25))

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Fri Sep 21, 2007 4:19 am
Zook blinks, shouting something that gets lost in the din of battle. "What the hell just happened?"

Posted by: Dark Maiden Fri Sep 21, 2007 6:16 am
[Tumble: 18 + 22 - 10 = 30] Kayla moves in on the mutant, tumbling past its reach, and coming up to stab it twice with her twin blades. [Kayla moves 6 squares North. Attack 1: 16 + 8 (BAB) + 7 (Dex) + 1 (Weapon) + 10 (Music) - 2 (TWF) = 40 Damage: 4 + 1 (Str) + 1 (Weapon) + 31 (Sneak Attack) + 10 (Music) + 7 (Holy) = 54
Attack 2: 8 + 8 (BAB) + 7 (Dex) + 3 (Weapon) + 10 (Music) - 2 (TWF) = 34
Damage: 3 + 1 (Str) + 3 (Weapon) + 28 (Sneak Attack) + 10 (Music) = 45]
------
[Tumble: 7 + 22 = 29]
Kethra moves to aid Kayla in bringing the mutant down.
[Kethra moves 4 squares West and 4 squares North.
Attack: 12 + 11 (BAB) + 2 (Str) + 2 (Flank) + 10 (Music) + 3 (Tactical Aid) = 40
Damage: 2+5 + 2 (Str) + 10 (Music) + 10 (Orb) = 29]

Posted by: Kaihaku Fri Sep 21, 2007 9:05 am
Cedric shakes his head in contempt, "How pathetic, you sound just like another worm I crushed a short time ago, blind to your own slavery..." He scoffs, "So be it, I don't care how misguided you are, all that matters is that your so-called immortal mockery of existence ends today."
"...oh my, Okori, it's a undead psionic type of madman." Maria whispers to the nearby fox spirit, her eyes flashing, "What say we take a look see?"
"Eh...Undead don't have any taste to them. Feels really...empty. There's lots of them, though, so we might as well go forone of the interesting ones." A feeling of tense excitement begins to spin through Maria's head. "Let's go take him down!"
"Well, I guess we could follow orders instead..." Maria moans, then chuckles, "But...why not do both?"
[Dimension Door Augmented : Move Action : 13 PP]
Maria and that really awesome little fox spirit appear beside Sheila suddenly.
"So, that was some speech, you despise the survivors of your final solution because they haven't recovered after a measly thousand years?"
Maria sighs wearily, "You should really study history more before you make such rash judgments, your society..." She tilts her head compromisingly, "...which I admit was fairly advanced for its sphere of influence...hardly sprung into existence after a mere thousand years."
She shakes her head, "Light, you really are naive for a ancient reanimated whatever you are, you reset this world to year zero and expected it to recover in little more than a few seconds in the grand scheme of things?"
She smacks her forehead, "Oh, I forgot, you left the survivors to deal with fiends, something your civilization didn't have retarding its ascend. All things considering, if I were you, I think I'd be pretty damn proud that most of the globe was already on a medieval level…" She shakes her head, holding a hand towards the drowned eye before her, "…but then, you aren't me." A powerful current of electricity surges around her outstretched hand, then blasts forth in a potent bolt striking at the neat row of enemies.
[Defensive Manifest: 28]
[Energy Bolt: Electricity]
[Manifester Level Check: 31]
[Reflex Save DC: 19 (Half)]
[Damage: 42 Electric]

Posted by: Cyrus Fri Sep 21, 2007 9:53 am
Watching his host ream the demented overlord, Okori starts breaking into the physical world, ready to assail the paranoid puppeteer with mind-wrecking mantras. However... : "...Okori!" Maria suddenly speaks into the 'mind' of the spirit fox, This Fasher is a psionic lich, he is immune to cold, electricity, and mental attacks!
Mental attacks? The fox posits, freezing in mid-leap from the psion's head. A groan reverberates through the mental mage's pysche. Well, that's just perfect. And here I thought I knew exactly what I was going to do...Guess a repeat wouldn't be too painful...
Well, I hate to be the bearing of bad news, but better to learn from me rather than the hard way.
I'm not ungrateful. If I was in the middle of that, and it didn't work...well, I'd be in threads! Okori rubs his paws together, examining his proposed target once more. Seems a little thick, this one. Let's try something...direct. The unbound soul then escapes the psion's mind, stop ten feet above his companion. Stretching both paws in front of him, he traces a circle into the air, which the light around him gleefully flows into, creating a mirror of light. As the spell nears completion, the fox draws another circle inside of it, ambient light suddenly being sucked out of the air to make a second. Finishing the incantation, both fire simultaneously, twin spears of brightness flying straight at the looming form of Fasher.
[Lucent Lance, then Quickened Lucent Lance.
Lance #1: 1d20(18)+9+6=33 touch attack.
Damage: 4,2,1,5,5,3,2,3,1,2,3=31.
Lance #2: 1d20(7)+9+6=22 touch attack.
Damage: 2,5,6,1,3,6,4,1,3,1,6=38.
31+38=69 damage.
If either spear hits, Fasher is rendered blind.]

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Fri Sep 21, 2007 9:54 am
"They could've been in the early computing age if not for their damn wars, corruption, religious fanaticism and utter stupidity!" Fasher snarls back. "Don't give yourself airs, dabbler... You may be a fellow practioner, but I am a master." The electricity runs over Fasher, not affecting him in the slightest as an invisible barrier around the Swarm protects him. Fasher gestures towards Maria and a number of acid burns on his body fade away only to reappear on the psychic.
(( Maria takes 60 points of damage. Fasher heals 60 points of damage. Augmented, Quickened, Ranged Hostile Empathic Transfer.))
Knowledge(Behavioral Sciences): 39
"I wouldn't claim to be your equal in psionics…or even personal experience…" Maria gasps out painfully, clutching at the wounds with her gloved hands, "…but I certainly have benefited from greater knowledge than anything your society could claim…even at its height." She takes in a pained breath, still feeling the ache of the assault, "I've seen worlds that have recovered from this kind of disaster and I've read the extensive studies that have been done on them, I'm a far better judge of the situation than you…who are walking blind into the unknown and whose viewpoint is clouded by your emotional attachment…Lich." She frowns then, "…or, is it that you don't want to see the truth, that its easier to hold to the façade of being in control…a judge rather than admit to yourself that you have become little more than an undead pawn?"
"Silence! In...insolence wench!! I will bring your existence crashing down around you!" Fasher shouts.
One of Okori's lances rebounds off an invisible barrier around Fasher, but the other slams into the psychic lich, searing light pouring from his eyepieces. Fasher screams for a moment, then angrily shouts at the spirit fox, "Taking away my sight means nothing! I can still see your soul!"
((Hit, Miss. Fasher takes 31 damage and is blinded.))

Posted by: Dark Maiden Fri Sep 21, 2007 3:32 pm
Jessica moves to aid Maria, trying to avoid the skeleton, but she cannot make it to her fellow Psion’s side just yet. [Jess moves 2 squares northeast, 2 squares East, and 1 square South. I didn't feel like provoking an AOO from the skeleton, and I really haven't the PP to waste on a psionic teleport.]

Posted by: Rusty Fri Sep 21, 2007 8:46 pm
*Ombligo screams as a Ravager appears right in front of him. He then notices Mahler and the others join him.* : "Ahh!!! Mahler, it's good to see you, but do you think you can get this thing out of my face?!" *Floating to the side, Ombligo casts a combination of spells once more, this time a ray shooting out from one tentacle as the other throws magical lances of pure lightning.
((Ombligo moves 5' to the right. Casting Arcane Fusion! 1 Ray of Clumsiness and 2 Lightning Lances directed at the Ravager, 1 Lightning Lance directed at the DE northeast of Ombligo.
Ray of Clumsiness (on Ravager)...Ranged touch attack. Lasts 1 minute per level, so it'll be 13 minutes.
To hit: 12 + 6 [BAB] + 2 [DEX] + 1 [size] + 1 [Haste] + 10 [music] = 32.
DEX penalty: 3 + 5 = 8.
No save.
Lightning Lance #1: (on Ravager)
To hit: 7 + 6 [BAB] + 2 [DEX] + 1 [size] + 1 [Haste] + 10 [music] = 27.
Impact Damage: 5 6 6 = 17
Electricity Damage: 4 4 5 1 6 2 5 1 5 3 = 36 electric damage
Thunderbolt: 4 sonic
FORT save DC 23 to halve the electric damage only
FORT save DC 23 to negate possible stun effect (1 round)
Lightning Lance #2: (on Ravager)
To hit: 11 + 6 [BAB] + 2 [DEX] + 1 [size] + 1 [Haste] + 10 [music] = 31.
Impact Damage: 5 2 3 = 10
Electricity Damage: 6 3 1 5 3 3 1 4 4 2 = 32 electric damage
Thunderbolt: 4 sonic damage
FORT save DC 23 to halve the electric damage only
FORT save DC 23 to negate possible stun effect (1 round)
Lightning Lance #3: (on DE)
To hit: 16 + 6 [BAB] + 2 [DEX] + 1 [size] + 1 [Haste] + 10 [music] = 36.
Impact Damgae: 1 4 1 = 6
Electricity Damage: 5 3 1 5 6 5 3 1 4 5 = 38 electric damage
Thunderbolt: 4 sonic damage
FORT save DC 23 to halve the electric damage only
FORT save DC 23 to negate possible stun effect (1 round)))

Posted by: Knight_019 Fri Sep 21, 2007 10:32 pm
: Haha, you've got it little buddy! *Mahler grunts and smashes his fists together, the observer noticing his outline seems blurred as he moves. Mahler rushes forward, fist cocked back, with numerous ghostly images of himself following behind his charge. His fist impacts the thick hide of the ravager in front of him, and with a thunderous impact the images smash into it as well. Each fist glows with a holy light that diffuses into the abomination.*
: That one's for Gorrik, you disgusting pile of parts!
((Mahler Casts Rhino's Rush as a swift action.
Mahler charges and smites evil, power attacking for 10!
1d20 + 21 + 10 + 2 + 1 + 3 + 1 - 10 = 17 + 28 = 45.
Damage
(6d8 + 10 + 10 + 10 + 9)*2 + 1d8 + 2d6 = 2 + 6 + 8 + 3 + 3 + 1 + 6 + 4 + 7 + 3 + 4 + 6 + 8 + 1 + 2 + 78 = 142 damage.))
*Aurik sees the effect of Telanna's spell and immediately gets an idea of his own.*
: Excellent idea, Telanna!
*Aurik gestures toward the other floor opening spewing drowned eye, and 3 small earth elementals appear to block it off.*

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Sat Sep 22, 2007 2:40 am
Varro steps to the side, tiny thrusters on his blade coming to life. The Varroblade cleaves deeply into the Ravager twice, each time punctuated by the robot's vocalizations. : "RIP...and...TEAR!" ((5' southeast, PA 8. 2 hits. 62 + 4 Holy, 59 + 10 Holy))
A flurry of movement catches the corner of Zook's eye, and he looks over in time to see the cobalt blue robot swing his massive sword, a dozen tiny explosions flying from the back of the blade.
"That sword..." he mutters disbelievingly, "That sword has rockets. Rockets. That sword has rockets. That sword has rockets."

Posted by: FreedomJu Sat Sep 22, 2007 3:12 am
Melissa needs only a moment to determine that this kind of situation called for her Gauss Rifle over her plasma based. Quickly switching out weapons, she then quickly snaps off a shot at the Drowned Eye directly in front of her position. ((Gauss Hit: 1d20 + BAB + DEX + Weapon Focus (Gauss Assault Rifle) + Tac Aid
Attack 1: 1d20 + 10 + 8 + 1 + 1 = 8 + 19 + 1 + 3 = 31
Gauss Damage: 3d10+3 + Weapon Specialization (Gauss Assault Rifle)
Attack 1: 3d10 + 3 + 2 = 7 + 8 + 9 + 5 = 29
Dodge to the DE I'm shooting
Why is Jim in front of Melissa?))

Posted by: Kaihaku Sat Sep 22, 2007 3:15 am
Gilliam Thornton… The Doctor glances around the chaotic battleground with a frown, his eyes searching for something. What are the chances…that there is another Gilliam in a place like this…or many others… In the titanic struggle, he fails to notice the few scattered familiar faces though his eyes pause on the isolated knight in the south, then he steps back, nimbly springing atop the nearby console. They should be a continent away.
[Jump: 7 + 10 = 17]
Sacred energy flickers around his hands as he crosses them over his shoulders…a tremble runs through him, his skin rippling as it is replaced by silver scales. Twin wings erupt from his back in a burst of magical power, his face elongating as it grows draconic features and his hands twist into powerful claws.
[Coventry polymorphs into a Silver Dragonman]
[Str = 22, Con = 18, Dex = 13, NA = 4, Gains Fly 120ft (average), etc, etc]
[Mobile Spellcasting]
[Jump: 8 + 14 = 22]
The Doctor leaps from the console, gliding through the air on his newly formed wings agilely avoiding the nearby drowned eye, he soars towards the southern ziggeraut landing on the middle tier on the northern face. He growls out to the nearby holy warrior, "Fighting the good fight?"

Posted by: Arcdragnbreth Sat Sep 22, 2007 4:05 am
"I... I..." Get them, voices whispered in his mind, a torrent of noise urging him on to action. But instead of being convinced, or enticed by the words, it only reminded him of the past. Of times when, unbeknownst to him, he has betrayed his friends simply by being alive. By seeing, and smelling, and taking in information he had proven a liability. For so long he wanted to punish those responsible, make them pay for turning him into a pawn...
And now he had the chance. Roaring in defiance, he turned, setting his sights not on allies, but on the massive enemy codenamed Ravager. And his purpose... to do to it what it's name suggested it wanted to do to him.
Shred. Slash.
Ravage.
((Claw1: 1d20 +15 (bab) +16 (str) +3 (jim) +2 (charge) -10 (pa) +10 (bardic) +1 (haste) = 48
Dmg: 2d6 +16 (str) +10 (pa) +10 (bardic) = 42
Claw1: 1d20 +15 (bab) +16 (str) +3 (jim) +2 (charge) -10 (pa) +10 (bardic) +1 (haste) = 49
Dmg: 2d6 +16 (str) +10 (pa) +10 (bardic) = 41
Claw1: 1d20 +15 (bab) +16 (str) +3 (jim) +2 (charge) -10 (pa) +10 (bardic) +1 (haste) = 44
Dmg: 2d6 +16 (str) +10 (pa) +10 (bardic) = 43
Bite: 1d20 +10 (bab) +8 (str) +3 (jim) +2 (charge) -10 (pa) +10 (bardic) +1 (haste) = 42
Dmg: 2d6 +8 (str) +10 (pa) +10 (bardic) = 36
Grapple: 1d20 +15 (bab) +16 (str) +4 (size) = 42))
<}----{ Gabriel }----{>
(O) 206/242 HP (186/186 HP base)
(O) AC 30 (22 touch, 23 flat)
(O) Rage: 1/2
(O) Primeval Form: 1/3
(}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{)
"I've got this metal menace, monkey monk... handle the big fish while I catch up!" Ashathel said, unleashing his fury on the construct.
((5' step NW, then rape the Torch Eye.
Atk1: 1d20 +14 (bab) +10 (wpn) +4 (dex) +3 (greaves) +10 (bardic) +1 (haste) -5 (c. exp.) = 39
Dmg: 7d6 (wpn) +2 (str) +3 (greaves) +10 (bardic) = 33
Atk2: 1d20 +14 (bab) +10 (wpn) +4 (dex) +3 (greaves) +10 (bardic) +1 (haste) -5 (c. exp.) = 40
Dmg: 7d6 (wpn) +2 (str) +3 (greaves) +10 (bardic) = 41
Atk3: 1d20 +9 (bab) +10 (wpn) +4 (dex) +3 (greaves) +10 (bardic) +1 (haste) -5 (c. exp.) = 47
Dmg: 7d6 (wpn) +2 (str) +3 (greaves) +10 (bardic) = 43
Atk4: 1d20 +4 (bab) +10 (wpn) +4 (dex) +3 (greaves) +10 (bardic) +1 (haste) -5 (c. exp.) = 45
Dmg: 7d6 (wpn) +2 (str) +3 (greaves) +10 (bardic) = 40))
<}----{ Ashathel }----{>
(O) 57/135 HP -78
(O) AC 36 (31 touch, 25 flat), +1 dodge to Ravager
(O) Song of Celerity: 1/1
<== Spells ==>
Lv 0: Detect Magic [2]
Lv 1: Magic Missile [3], Enlarge Person, L. Orb of Sound [4]
Lv 2: Blur, Cat's Grace, Fox's Cunning, Blast of Force
Lv 3: Bolt 1 [2]
Lv 4: Ray of Deanimation
(}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{)
"Will do!" the dwarf said, charging off. Targeting the Drowned Eye to the northwest with a heavy staff blow, he yelled, "I'm ready for you!"
((Charge the Drowned Eye a couple dozen feet NW of Graigus.
Atk: 1d20 +9 (bab) +3 (str) +1 (wpn) +1 (w. foc) +1 (haste) +10 (bardic) +2 (charge) = 42
Dmg: 1d6 +1 (wpn) +2d6 (holy) +4 (str) +10 (bardic) = 28))
<}----{ Graigus }----{>
(O) 97/124 HP
(O) AC 31 (touch 28, flat 27), +1 dodge to Torch Eye
(O) Stunning Fist: 8/8
(O) Hybrid Form: 2/2
(}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{)
"I have waited for the chance to grind your bones into dust," the templar growled savagely, swinging twice at the undead in his path.
((Expend a turn attempt for Divine Might.
Atk1: 1d20 +10 (bab) +6 (str) +3 (wpn) +1 (w. foc) +10 (bardic) -5 (pa) +3 (jim) = 46
Dmg: 2d6 +3 (wpn) +2d6 (holy) +9 (str) +10 (pa) +10 (bardic) +7 (d. might) = 59
Atk2: 1d20 +10 (bab) +6 (str) +3 (wpn) +1 (w. foc) +10 (bardic) -5 (pa) +3 (jim) = 29
Dmg: 2d6 +3 (wpn) +2d6 (holy) +9 (str) +10 (pa) +10 (bardic) +7 (d. might) = 50))
<}--{Pantherath }--{>
HP: 119/119
AC: 24 (13 touch, 21 flat), +1 dodge to Fasher
Smite Evil: 1/1
Turn Undead: 8/8
Turn Water/Bolster Fire: 5/8
Spells: 5/6 [L0], 8/8 [L1], 6/7 [L2], 4/7 [L3], 4/7 [L4], 1/7 [L5], 3/4 [L6]

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Sat Sep 22, 2007 5:32 am
"Systems malfunctioning... Unable to complete mission..." the last of the CHAOS robots murmurs right before a hail of arrows from Faralon cuts it off. The sophisticated automaton is reduced to a hunk of metal as it topples to the cold metal floor.
Ombligo's flurry of thunderbolts lance into the Ravager and cause it to scream deafeningly as Mahler rushes in. Ombligo's ray strikes the mutant at that moment, robbing the foe of precious accuracy. Dodging a clumsy blow by the Ravager, the crusading golem lands an incredible hit in the center of the monster's gut. The stone fist of the paladin-construct rams all the way out of the creature's back, creating a gory hole in the beast. Mahler pulls back his fist... and the creature still yet stands. With an almost evil chuckle the abomination slams its claws into Mahler, ripping out great hunks of stone before turning and sinking its teeth and a claw into Kayla, opening great wounds that cause the tiefling rogue to swiftly fall unconscious. Greedily swallowing the hunk of Kayla's flesh in its maw, the creature turns towards Ombligo and lets loose a rushing blast of blue fire that engulfs the magical creature!
((Hit, Hit, Hit. Heroic Surge: Hit! 102 damage to Mahler. 101 damage to Kayla, Kayla is KO'd at -9 HP. Breath: Hit! Ombligo takes 40 fire damage.))
Twin beams of light lance from the Torch Eyes to slice into Coventry and Graigus, leaving thin but deep cauterized cuts.
((Hit, Hit. 20 damage to Coventry and Graigus.))
“You came from a tree, eh? I'll saw you in half!” one skeleton shouts as he fires at Telanna with his chaingun, a stream of bullets wounding her deeply.
((Hit, Miss. 31 damage to Telanna.))
“I'll butcher you like the animal you are!” another howls as it fires on Graigus, lightly wounding the monk, but not fatally.
((Hit, Miss. 24 damage to Graigus.))
“Inferior beings!!!” another Drowned Eye shouts as it sprays fire at Kethra only to have the monk agilely dodge the bullets. Another opens fire on Kyoji, but the ninja leaps out of the way.
((Miss, miss.))
“Take this!” Cedric's skeletal foe shouts as it backs up and fires on him. The invisible protective field wrapping around the paladin deflecting the bullets with ease.
((Miss, miss.))
“Perish in flames, dog,” the Drowned Eye in front of Laika says as it aims its weapon. The wolfman lashes out, damaging the skeleton, but not before it fires two devastating bursts at point blank range into the furred fighter.
((Critical Hit! Hit! 87 damage total to Laika.))
“Now bear my grenade blasth!” Villeta shouts with an odd lisp as she fires a grenade into the cluster of troops around General Fasher. The general evades the blast as the Swarm and Shade stand unaffected. All of the skeletons around them though take some nasty damage as their bones break in a few places.
((25 damage to all those DE.))
“All units, take cover! Anti-matter grenade!!” Jim shouts as he plucks a grenade from his belt and chucks it at the center of the Drowned Eye formation. A blinding flash of light heralds a deafening explosion as computer monitors shatter and debris goes flying. The Drowned Eye caught in the blast move weakly in the aftermath of the grenade's detonation. Jim turns to Viki. Again Fasher swiftly moves out of the way while the Swarm and Shade seem unaffected. “Finish 'em off, Viki!”
((Heroic Surge and Anti Matter Grenade used. 44 damage to all those DE.))
Viki looks confused for a moment then a glowing rune appears in front of her and two skeletons promptly vanish. Jim blinks.
“Well... Not what I expected, but I guess it worked...” the commander mutters.
A stray burst of gunfire strikes Maria, but it's relatively minor compared to her other injuries.
((Hit, Miss. 21 damage to Maria.))
Varro turns and swiftly cleaves off an arm from the offending skeleton near him.
((AoO: Hit. 61 damage.))
Melissa's shot clips the side of the Drowned Eye, leaving it open for Pantherath's assault. The woren warrior rips the skeleton apart with two vicious blows. Bones and cyberware clatter to the ground in a heap when he is through.
Varro' blade cleaves deeply into the Ravager twice, opening great wounds in its body. It roars in defiance and lashes out at the robot with massive claws, rending and tearing the machine's frame with its incredible strength. It turns its head around to belch a plasma bolt at Sheila. Sparks flying from his body, Varro still manages to stand after the brutal assault. Suddenly in a burst of speed the Ravager's claw lances forward to shear the robot's head cleanly from the rest of the body. Varro shudders, then collapses in a shower of sparks.
:“Waaaaaa!” Sheila screams as she twists wildly to barely avoid the stream of superheated plasma blasting from the mutant's mouth. “Damn... Damn you! You messed up Varro! I'll getcha for... Damn it, I still have EMP rounds loaded! Someone kick that thing's ass for me, willya?!”
((Breath, Miss. Hit, Hit, Hit. Heroic Surge! Critical Hit! Varro destroyed.))
: “Damn! All units, concentrate fire on that Ravager! I want that thing taken out!!” Jim shouts, a hint of anger in his voice as he watches Varro be torn apart. "Vil, you keep on those skeletons! Jessica, where's that healing?!"
Gilliam fires round after round into the Ravager, but the beast refuses to die, bullets bouncing off its think hide. Nonetheless the numerous wounds the monster has suffered are obviously taking a toll. Kria blasts the abomination with acid and it howls weakly, swaying in place. With a cold expression on her face, Isyndel casts a magic missle and finishes off the abomination in a humiliating manner as the magical darts of energy simultaneously slam into its skull, killing it.
((Hit, miss, miss. 15 damage after DR for Gilliam. Hit, 30 damage for Kria. Magic Missle, 15 damage for Isyndel, Ravager slain.))
Ashathel steps forward, his flashing blade carving again and again into the robotic adversary until at last he steps away again and the machine falls to pieces in an instant.
((Torch Eye destroyed.))
Graigus leaps forward, slamming his staff against the skeleton and cracking a few bones.
“Moderately injured... Still battle-worthy...” the skeleton murmurs as regains its footing.
Gabriel leaps onto his foe, ignoring the wound that the beast opens in his side as he pounces. The two titans struggle for a few second, and though they seem evenly matched, the abominable Ravager is at last able to fend off Gabriel's crushing grasp.
((AoO: Hit! 49 damage to Gabriel. Grapple check: 42. Defender wins tie.))
The Ravager howls a feral challenge as it turns to blast a stream of raw plasma at Graigus. The well-trained monk back-flips away from the fiery stream and it melts part of the floor instead of his body. The abomination turns its attention back to Gabriel, and its gigantic claws go to work on the half-giant, its fanged maw greedily biting down on the warrior as well, tearing off hunk after hunk of flesh. When the creature is done, great red wounds cover every inch of Gabriel's skin... He truly looks ravaged.
((Breath: Miss. Hit, Hit, Hit. Heroic Surge! Hit! 199 damage to Gabriel.))
Bullets fly all around Sheila as the Drowned Eye train their fire on the agile agent.
: “Hahahaha, missed me!” Sheila crows as she flips around, dodging two of the bursts. A third and fourth fly past her as she cartwheels to the side. “Come on, is that all?”
Sheila jumps back to dodge a fifth burst, then a sixth catches her in the side. Sheila grimaces, then grins dangerously.
: Better... But such an attack won't fell Type 3!”
((Miss, Miss, Miss, Miss, Miss, Hit. 31 damage to Sheila.))
Michael floats upward, imperiously blasting one of the badly damaged Drowned Eye to bone dust.
((Fly up 30'. Hit. Dead DE.))
A well aimed pair of bursts pierce Viki through the chest as the last Drowned Eye fires on her. Blood splatters her robes as she topples backward, shock written across her face as she faints.
((Upgraded Critical Hit! Not bothering with the damage this time. Don is on vacation for a while, so auto-KO for the battle.))
“Cedric, look out!” Kyoji suddenly yells, dashing for the paladin. Turning towards the ninja, Cedric sees motion in the corner of his eye and turns back just in time to see the ghostly figure of the Shade appear beside him. The assassin cruelly slides his blade into Cedric's side, his eyes meeting Cedric's dispassionately. Immense pain wracks Cedric as he takes what should be a fatal wound... Then the ring on his finger pulses gently with white light and Cedric feel fine. The Shade raises a single eyebrow at this turn of events.
((Death Attack! Cedric takes 60 damage, and is immune to death effects.))
The distorted voice of the AI speaks for a moment.
“Prep-prep-prepare to die, in-in-insects...” the AI says with a maniacal female laugh.
Then the security guns open fire in a dazzling array of lasers, green beams lashing out everywhere for a moment before focusing on the white haired healer to the south and the demolitions expert to the west. Villeta and Sulia sustain terrible burns as beam after beam burns into them.
((All hit. Sulia takes 100 damage. Villeta takes 60 damage.))
Bursting through the eastern door, Alexander and his force arrives in the midst of this battle, explosions shattering the air while beams and bullets slice it.
: “What? More of you? Hahahahaha! You're making this interesting! Ahahahahaha!” Fasher laughs madly.
Next turn!
Deadline: Monday Night.
Map:
http://img170.imageshack.us/img170/4828/megiddocommanda05bjt0.png

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Sat Sep 22, 2007 5:56 am
Varro is rent to a pile of scrap, his sword embedding itself deep into the floor. Zook fires off three precise shots at the Ravager that destroyed Varro, but fails to fell it. "Better not have broken the rocket-sword..." he mumbles. ((3 hits. 32 + 8 holy, 30 + 10 holy, 30 + 12 holy))
Telanna shrieks in pain, from the gunshots and the terrible wordplay of the Drowned Eye. She stumbles back against the ziggurat, blood spreading onto her clothing and smearing her golden bracelets.
: "Healer! I need a healer!
((Telanna is at 4 HP))

Posted by: Rusty Sat Sep 22, 2007 6:46 am
((I will edit this later for an actual action. Right now, I need to do some orderin'.)) *Alexander enters with his force, taking in the foreign surroundings.* : "Wow...Hal, if you have anything that can give us a boost, now would be the time to do it. It looks like this is going to be one wild battle! Everyone, try and aid the other forces! We can only win this fight together!"

Posted by: Kaihaku Sat Sep 22, 2007 6:56 am
At the cry for help, the silver dragonman person moves around the ziggurant, leaping forward and gliding through the air to the wounded, unbeknownst to him, daughter of his mortal enemy, Sorel Soulreaver. He throws a glance at the powerful combat robot behind the ziggurant as he glides passed, growling out sacred words lowly. As he touches down, he taps the girl lightly on her shoulder, causing healing energy to pour into her sealing her wounds…slightly.
[Cure Critical Wounds: 1 + 1 + 6 + 1…+ 13 = +22 HP Telanna]
[Mobile Spellcasting]
[Jump: 7 + 16 = 23]
He does not pause before starting to the east, his scaly eyes meeting those of the ancient robot as he dashes pass, leaping into the air with a bound and carried forward with a surge of mighty wings. As he nears the beaten and bruised form of Gorrik, a twitch runs across the face of the dragonman, who growls lowly, "Gang's all here…" His eyes flash as he the shouts a word of power, a pulse of health surging from him.
[Stabilize]
[AoE: 50ft Burst of 2 squares north of Gorrik]
[Effect: +1 HP to all living creatures | -1 HP to all undead creatures Will DC 16 Negates]
[Healer Kicker Aid]
[Every creature affected additionally gains 13 temporary HP and +1 morale bonus attack and saves against fear.]
((I would assume that the temporary HP does not apply to undead. This temporary HP should bring everyone in the south back to consciousness….except for Sorel who is very dramatic.))

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Sat Sep 22, 2007 7:02 am
Hal nods, smiling broadly. "I know just the thing to perk us up." He turns around slowly, loudly singing a song in Celestial. Whether it's holy magic or merely the comical appearance of it, every ally who can see or hear it is visibly cheered at the sight.
((Elation cast. +2 STR, +2 DEX, +5' movement))
Telanna opens her mouth to thank the mysterious dragonman, but he flies away, releasing another burst of healing energy that rejuvenates her further. She smiles hopefully as the downed form of Kayla rises, but the smile fades as Gorrik, Langston, and Sorel do not.
: "What--what happened? Why aren't they getting up? What's wrong with them?"

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Sat Sep 22, 2007 7:16 am
A fell aura surrounds the ghostly assassin. ((Forgot his aura. Everyone needs to make a Fort save, DC: 25 or take 1d4 points of temporary Str, Con, and Dex damage from the sheer horror surrounding the Shade. This extends out to 60', but is constantly on. You may only save/be affected by this power once.))

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Sat Sep 22, 2007 7:22 am
((Telanna and Zook both pass. FUCK YOU))

Posted by: Kaihaku Sat Sep 22, 2007 7:25 am
"They suffered a traumatic shock which has driven their psyche comatose…" The Dragonman snarls back over his shoulder to the girl, his eyes darting at the various warriors assembled at the entrance to this chamber of horrors.

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Sat Sep 22, 2007 7:35 am
: "But they're not dead?" she asks, a note of hope in her voice.

Posted by: Dark Maiden Sat Sep 22, 2007 8:57 am
Kayla's eyes widen with shock as the Ravager sinks his claw and teeth into her. The tiefling barely manages a faint cry of pain before her consciousness leaves her, and she drops to the ground. Kethra gasps as Kayla drops like a bag of sand. "Kayla?!" The monk glares at the ravager and clenches her fist. "Damn you!" Before she can act, however, the Ravager is brought down by some of her other allies. Then out of the corner of her eye, she notices Kayla beginning to stir. Kethra runs off to go help Cedric. She swings at the Shade, but her fist passes harmlessly through his incorporeal form.
[Kethra moves to the square below the Shade. I rolled a 34 for my miss chance, so I don't hit him.]
Kayla gets back to her feet, but the tiefling still looks to be on her last legs. Weak from her wounds and blood loss, and barely able to stand, she pulls a small vial from her belt pouch. Kayla pulls out the cork with her teeth and drinks the liquid. Her wounds begin to heal and though she is still in bad shape, she looks way better than she did a few moments ago.
[Kayla gets up and drinks a Potion of CCW. +31 HP]
Jessica moves to Maria's side and uses her Meditech Kit to treat her wounds.
[Move to the square above Maria and use the Meditech Kit. +24 HP.]
"Oh dear."
Merla makes a few gestures with her hand, and chants in a language only another magician would understand. After a few moments, she finishes casting her spell.
[Haste on Alex's group.]

Posted by: Lord Oddeye Sat Sep 22, 2007 12:29 pm
Enrick stood there, shiny as can be and rapier held in front of him in a battle stance, ready for the incoming final assault of Megiddo. But it wasn't the usual cheer that emanated from the noble's whimsical self in this instant. On the contrary, his features gave away the great dismay of a man who sounded like he didn't get to enjoy an adventure that didn't turn out the way he thought.
: "Aww, talk about a wasted hike... I feel so disappointed. Is it me or didn't this whole place feel kind of too... empty? What kind of ancient ruins are deprived of any good worth bringing back home? Where are the piles of gold, precious stones... treasure chests full of lovely trinkets and... old relics, legendary items and... the like? Where went all the shinies???"
The swordsman pouted, then realised this didn't fit him at all. So instead he let down of his grief and focused on his view of the brighter side of the situation.
: "Heh. Well I suppose I have nothing to complain about at the end. I'm not so down that I would ask for a refunding anyway... not that it would make a difference since my trip was free of charge, errr um..." A mischevious smile came across his face, "I'm glad that the epic factor didn't go down the drain, I got to show off my legendary battle skills to the baddies *chuckle*. About that... what's with all the golems dwelling this place? Ever since we approached and marched in it's all about deads and 'bots and deads and 'bots and... more deads and oh! An oversized black hulk!" He shook his head at the sheer ridiculousness of it all ((/sarcasm)), "This is getting tiresome eventually... Did the dragon flee with all the gold and forsake this place to the scavengers? Obviously not. But I feel better ranting about it."
He paused to look over the huge room of machinery they had entered and went on as his eyes surveyed both friends and foes battling each other to estimate the odds and to which extent he would have to get involved.
"Oh... well I suppose this is it. Today is no day for treasure hunting. I will aim at more spiritual goals such as glory and fame, and a feeling of accomplishment after saving the world, of course! That's more like me. Uh... Hey you over there!"
He called out and pointed an accusing finger at the three figures standing midway through the other side of the room, lined up in front of the group.
: "Whichever one is the mastermind behind this "threat to the world" nonsense had better arm themselves well in sight of the trouble they'll be facing soon."
He closed his eyes and smirked before he took a few steps ahead and gazed at them three, assaulting them with... a verbose speech.
((http://www.kaihaku.net/Oddeye/RPGs/SFCWIV/Main%20Theme.mp3))
: "For I am Enrick van Maerglecrow, the famous treasure hunter come from Destonia! Traveling the world far and wide, from its highest peaks down to its deepest heart, I discover richnesses of all kind and make them my own. But today is none of the usual business. Today the world is at stake. And it is from out of the trying journey that led me and my friends here to the lair of evil that I have arrived to put an end to your scheming. And by my word and blade and our efforts combined, your menace shall last no longer."
((I'll figure out an action later. Need to discuss about things first.))

Posted by: Knight_019 Sat Sep 22, 2007 7:23 pm
: GABRIEL! Not now, you don't. *His leonine charge would not die this day. Not again. Volcanon had plans for him, and Gabriel had just begun to realize it. With a flick of his wrist, The lethal blow seals vital organs before they rupture and spill from his body. Aurik moves in front of Sorel and looks down at the old man. He appeared to be well, but far more feeble than he recalled. Aurik raises his hands above his head, then circularly lowers them down to his side. He radiates a dim, glowing white aura for a moment while healing energies permeate his friends. His allies are immediately healed of their wounds, and feel far better for it afterward.*
((Immediate Action: Aurik uses close wounds to prevent 1d4 + 5 = 9 damage from occurring to Gabriel, which should leave him at -5. This is affected by a Healing Kicker (Sanctuary). Gabriel cannot be attacked for 1 round unless a DC 25 Will save is passed.
Aurik moves to the square in front of Sorel and uses Divine Spell Power.
Turning Result: 1d20 + 3 + 2 + 3 = 16 + 8 = 24.
Aurik casts this next spell as a Cleric of 4 levels higher. (22, since it's a healing spell).
Mass Cure Moderate Wounds from Domain.
(2d8+22)*1.5 = (15)*1.5 + 33 = 55 hp healed to everyone around Aurik.))
*The enormous, feline barbarian drops to the ground, and Mahler knew he'd have to clear a path to him. Mahler roars a deep, bellowing war cry as he takes off toward the Drowned Eye behind the wall.*
: Watch out, coming through, move it, one side! *Mahler yells to the drowned eye before smashing his fist into its faceless skull.*
((Charge, PA 11.
1d20 + 21 + 10 + 2 + 1 - 11 = 8 + 23 = 31.
Damage
6d8 + 10 + 11 + 10 + 1d8 = 1 + 2 + 3 + 3 + 6 + 7 + 31 + 5 = 58 damage.
This damage is Bludgeoning and Good-Aligned.))
((Rusty says Eve and DAGRON's positions should be switched.))
: Rarg, I've had enough of you skeletons! You don't even taste good!
*Dagron hovers up into the air in front of the Drowned eye and begins hacking, clawing, and tearing apart. Whoever was singing sure sounded good, though. Dagron's attacks seemed to just fall in place with the tempo and meter of the bard's song.*
((5' down-left and up into the air.
Bite: 1d20 + 22 + 1 + 10 = 3 + 33 = 36.
Claw: 1d20 + 28 = 19 + 28 = 47.
Claw: 1d20 + 28 = 7 + 28 = 35.
Wing: 1d20 + 26 = 10 + 26 = 36.
Wing: 1d20 + 26 = 5 + 26 = 31.
Bite: 1d8 + 13 + 10 + 1 + 2d6 = 2 + 24 + 6 + 5 = 37.
Claw: 1d6 + 7 + 10 + 1 + 2d6 = 2 + 18 + 1 + 3 = 24.
Claw: 1d6 + 7 + 10 + 1 + 2d6 = 5 + 18 + 3 + 5 = 31.
Wing: 1d4 + 5 + 10 + 1 = 1 + 16 = 17.
Wing: 1d4 + 5 + 10 + 1 = 1 + 16 = 17.))

Posted by: Cyrus Sat Sep 22, 2007 8:33 pm
Okori's attention is ripped away at Sheila's cry, the spirit turning just in time to see Varro's headless body slump to the ground, sparks lighting up the cold steel floor. He had wondered what it felt like to be a machine...he didn't seem to feel the blows that fell upon, he never stopped in what he considered his purpose. Did he not fear his death, even when it was so close? Realizing that this threat would only lead to more killing, Okori begins to trace another disc of light, but halts when insight hits him, eyes darting to Fasher as he lets the luminescent outline fade into nothing. Returning his gaze to the Ravager, his being begins to disperse, thin strands of positive energy draining into the hulk's mind as the spirit attempts to overthrow the creature's soul.
[Possession used on Northwest Ravager. Using Ghost's Malevolence as a guideline.
DC = 15 + 8(CHA) = 23 to resist.]

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Sat Sep 22, 2007 10:46 pm
: "It's like shooting fish in a barrel!" Sheila exclaims as she fires shot after shot into the ceiling's deployed sentry guns. One of her bullets goes astray and she winces. "Well... Maybe more like guns in a barrel... Well, really on a ceiling... Oh well, five outta six ain't bad."
((Hit, Hit, Hit, Hit, Hit, Miss. 5 Security guns destroyed. 3 Security Guns left.))

Posted by: Lord Oddeye Sat Sep 22, 2007 11:05 pm
With that, the very talkative noble whose speech even froze time long enough to allow him an action still, raises his left arm and draws a singular arcane symbol in the air with one finger. Three bright magic missiles of pure pink light surge forth and fly by the wavering form of The Shade, crazed up general Fasher and The mysterious Swarm in that order, but neither of them is hit by those projectiles. Instead, they all crash about 10 feet away from the silent spellcaster into the armed skeleton that stands in the western force's way, causing some damage.
((Stay and CAST MAGIC MISSILE!
Target : Drowned Eye 2 squares west of The Swarm.
Damage : 3d4+3 = 13 force damage.
HP : 97/97
AC : 24 +8 as immediate action if necessary.
Buffs still up : Mass Mage Armor (less than 11 hours), Elation (14 rounds), Haste (14 rounds)))

Posted by: FreedomJu Sun Sep 23, 2007 1:30 am
Melissa's response to Jim's orders happens virtually instantaneously as she moves up to where she can fire upon the Ravager, her pair of gauss slugs dealing excellent damage. ((Heroic Surge move down and to the right to the very corner of the pillar/computer terminal/whatever until I can see the Ravager. Full Attack upon Ravager.
Gauss Hit: 1d20 + BAB + DEX + Weapon Focus (Gauss Assault Rifle) + Tac Aid + Elation
Attack 1: 1d20 + 10 + 8 + 1 + 1 = 15 + 19 + 1 + 3 + 1 = 39
Attack 2: 1d20 + 5 + 8 + 1 + 1 = 19 + 14 + 1 + 3 + 1 = 38
Confirm: 1d20 + 5 + 8 + 1 + 1 = 16 + 14 + 1 + 3 + 1 = 35
Gauss Damage: 3d10+3 + Weapon Specialization (Gauss Assault Rifle)
Attack 1: 3d10 + 3 + 2 = 1 + 8 + 2 + 5 = 16
Attack 2: 3d10 + 3 + 2 = 3 + 5 + 8 + 5 = 21 x2 (42)
Dodge to that DE near the worthless scrap heap that used be Varro.))
((Laika full attacks the DE with Power Attack 5
Attack
Claw: D20(4) + 12(BAB) + 7(STR) + 10(Music) -5(PA) = 28
Claw: D20(20)..... Hit
Bite: D20(16) + 6(BAB) + 3(STR) + 10(Music) - 5(PA) = 30
Damage
Claw: D8(2) + D6(6)fire + 6(STR) + 10(Music) + 10(PA)= 34
Claw: D8(6) + D6(5)fire + 6(STR) + 10(Music) + 10(PA) = 37
Bite: D6(4) + 3(STR) + 10(PA) + 10(Music) = 27))

Posted by: Kaihaku Sun Sep 23, 2007 4:17 am
The stalwart paladin stumbles back, blood running freely from his open wounds, his eyes widening, as the palpable waves of aberrance cause his body to rebel in horror. The sheer weight of the presence of the unnatural abomination before him causes shudders to run through his mighty frame.

QUOTE
Kethra runs off to go help Cedric. She swings at the Shade, but her fist passes harmlessly through his incorporeal form.

The sudden appearance of the monk seems to awaken the paladin from his daze, though he is noticeable paler and his body trembles unsteadily as he swings out at the apparition.
[Incorp: 75 88 66 80 : All hits…]
[Attack 1: 5 + 25 + Whatever = Over 27]
[Damage: 27 + 3 Elec + 4 Sonic]
Attack H: 6 + 25 + Whatever = Over 27]
[Damage: 35 + 5 Elec + 1 Sonic]
Attack 2: 13 + 20 + Whatever = Over 27]
[Damage: 29 + 6 Elec + 2 Sonic]
Attack 3: 12 + 16 + Whatever = Over 27]
[Damage: 36 + 2 Elec + 6 Sonic]
[All damage is good aligned… Cedric damage is always and forever good aligned.]

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Sun Sep 23, 2007 4:33 am
((Partial Update.)) Five security guns explode under the hail of shots fired by Sheila, leaving three still functional. Okori's attempt to possess one of the Ravagers ends in failure, the fox spirit running up against a solid mental wall of rage, hate, and violence.
Kethra's fist passes harmlessly through the Shade's ethereal form. The ghost shakes its head at her, then its form wavers as Cedric slams into it again and again and again. The Shade looks at Cedric balefully, then disappears from view.
Dagron crashes into the Drowned Eye nearest him, rending it apart in mere seconds, though the badly damaged skeleton wasn't in good shape to begin with. As its skull flies from its shoulders, it sighs with contentment before the light in its eyes dies.
Enrick destroys his target with a well placed spell, the undead already having difficulty standing from the previous beating it took. Laika too, manages to destroy his foe. The ancient bones of the Drowned Eye are no match for the magically enhanced claws of the war-wolf.
Melissa's and Zook's shots both badly wound the monstrous Ravager, but the beast seems to draw strength from the rage caused by suffering such injuries.
:”No more of this...” Jim shouts, a faint golden aura shining around his weapon for a few seconds. “You won't hurt anyone else today, abomination!”
A thundering roar of gunfire comes from Jim's weapon, the first burst encased in a shining light as the bullets penetrate into the Ravager's gut. The creature roars in pain as the toll from the many wounds finally begins to show.
((Ranged Smite, Hit, Hit, Hit. 160 damage to the Ravager, a big thank you to high damage rolls and a bard with a sonic special.))
The Swarm utters a series of chants and fiery portals appear directly in front of the advancing forces of Alex, disgorging a group of five Osyluths... Bone Devils.
((Summon Monster IX. 5 Osyluths appear, directly in front of Eve, Dagron, and Alexander, effectively blocking the advance of the fourth force.))

Posted by: Knight_019 Sun Sep 23, 2007 5:29 am
((Partial Update Map for those who want it. http://magic19.homestead.com/SFCW/SFCW4/MegiddoCommanda06u.PNG))

Posted by: Alpha Sun Sep 23, 2007 12:54 pm
((TUM said Laeral could have a couple of buffs cast before the Force arrived. I also figured that he’d have cast Heroism on himself earlier, due to its insanely long duration. So… Buffs cast before going in: Draconic Might, Heroism, Greater Blink – all on Laeral))
As Laeral and the others enter the room, a frown appears on his face.
: “Huh, it appears we’re some of the last to arrive,” he comments, looking around. “Odd looking place. Well, I suppose we should help finish up,” he says, a smile taking form once more. He then looks over to Enrick as the noble spills out his monologue, and he shakes his head in amusement.
Then, as the osyluths appear, effectively blocking them off, he shakes his head again, but not in amusement this time.
: “Looks like we’ll have to clear the way through,” he says with a sigh. “Well, see you on the other side!” and the flickering form of the daggerspell proceeds to walk towards the wall…and into the wall!
: “Why hello there!” he exclaims, appearing from another section of wall, cartwheeling and tumbling past the two most northern osyluths. Reach a safe (relatively speaking) point beyond the newly summoned devils. Upon reach this point, he spins arcane shapes in the air with his daggers, chanting all the while. Thunder then rains down on his targets.
[Move up 3 spaces, left 9 spaces, down 1 space. End up 2 spaces up and 7 spaces to the left from where he is now. Tumble checks of 32 and 33, so passes. Then he casts Bolt 1, which catches all 5 of the osys.
Damage: 10d6: 40
No save]
=====
Still reeling from his mental onslaught, Tanis edges his way to the right, to line up a potential target behind the wall. The huge form of Gabriel comes into view, but more so is the massive form of the ravager that’s standing over the half giant. Muttering the words of his favourite spell, an extremely powerful blast of sonic energy shoots past the fatespinner’s ally, and rockets into the monstrosity. The catfolk allows himself a small smile at the power of the spell.
[Move right 6 spaces and 2 up
Burn two level 4 spells to cast an empowered sound lance
Damage: 10d8 x 1.5 + 6(warmage edge) = 82
Fortitude save DC21 for half]
http://i123.photobucket.com/albums/o297/AlphaAlec/deathrolls.png

Posted by: BLT Sun Sep 23, 2007 7:22 pm
Caius launched into his dance, blades spinning under and over as he moved to attack. He pulled off two good hits on the first two before his third swing cut the creature's head clean off. Grinning he carried on the swing to cut through another creature. Excited he missed his next target entirely before making two more strikes.
"This is easier than cutting butter!"
((DDance and stance activated. Full attack against the creatures nearby. I can give specific path later if I find out if any died before I went, though it'll be over 40'. As always, tumble to avoid all AoOs and auto-pass on take 10.
attack 1: 12+35 = 47
damage: 5+28 = 32+10good
attack2: 2+35 = 37
damage: 4+26 = 30 +1elec
attack 3: 20. Confirm: 16, threat. Confirm:17, threat. Confirm: 8 (38). x4 damage.
damage: 1+1+5+5+[28x4] = 124 +11good. (It will die I am told, so cleave)
cleave!: 3+31 = 34, hit.
Damage: 32+8Good
attack4: 10+31 = 41
damage: 2+27 = 29 +1elec.
attack5: 1. confirm: 10 +26 = 36. normal miss.
attack6: 6+36 = 42
damage: 1+29 = 30+5good.
AC: 31, HP: 136/136))

Posted by: Rusty Sun Sep 23, 2007 8:52 pm
((Free action: enter Holy Fury. Gain 12 Holy Fury points for the duration of the encounter. Auras up: Major Aura: Motivate Ardor (+1 damage) Minor Aura: Force of Will (+8 to saves on WILL saves) )) Alexander will attack the nearest Bone Devil, avoiding any AoOs if possible. If the one directly next to him is alive, then that's more than likely the one he's hitting.))
*Alexander growls as he sees devils before him. Immediately, he lunges forward, cutting deeply into the nearest one, felling it thanks to the Bolt spell.*
: "DIE!!!"
((Roll to hit...19. Threat. Confirming: 9 + a total of 33 = 42. Critical Hit!
Damage: (1 2 = 3) [sword] + 10 [STR w/ Elation] + 6 [magic w/ bane] + (1 4 = 5) [holy] + 3 [starmetal] + (3 4 = 7) [bane] + 2 [aura] + 20 [music] = 56.
As it took 40 damage before, this thing is now officially dead.))
*A smile forms over Alexander's face as his sword rips through the skeleton of the Bone Devil.*
===
*Eve misses on her charge.*
((lol natural 1))
===
((What's that time again? You guessed it! Arcane Fusion time! Focus fire on the Ravager near Gabriel, because I don't want to risk anything there.
And I swear I am not cheating here. AIM really did give me another critical.
Arcane Fusion: Magic Missile + Lightning Lance. 1-2-3 GO!
Lightning Lance #1:
Roll to hit: 5 + 6 [BAB] + 2 [DEX] + 1 [size] + 1 [Haste] + 10 [music] = 25. Hit confirmed.
Impact Damage: 4 1 1 = 6
Electricity Damage: 1 5 3 1 3 4 5 3 6 1 = 32 electric damage
Thunderbolt Damage: 4 sonic damage
FORT save DC 23 to halve the electric damage only
FORT save DC 23 to negate possible stun effect
Lightning Lance #2:
Roll to hit: 6+ 6 [BAB] + 2 [DEX] + 1 [size] + 1 [Haste] + 10 [music] = 26. Hit confirmed.
Impact Damage: 4 6 5 = 15
Electricity Damage: 1 5 1 4 1 1 6 2 1 6 = 28 electric damage
Thunderolt Damage: 4 sonic damage
FORT save DC 23 to halve the electric damage only
FORT save DC 23 to negate possible stun effect
Lightning Lance #3:
Roll to hit: Natural 20. Confirming critical hit...2 + 6 [BAB] + 2 [DEX] + 1 [size] + 1 [Haste] + 10 [music] = 22. Critical hit confirmed!
Impact Damage: 5 4 3 3 2 1 = 18
Electricity Damage: 3 2 1 1 5 2 4 2 1 1 2 2 5 2 6 5 6 6 2 1 = 59 electric damage
Thunderolt Damage: 8 sonic damage
FORT save DC 23 to halve the electric damage only
Even with a passed save, if he needs to make these saves, he'll have to save vs. massive damage as well.))
FORT save DC 23 to negate possible stun effect
Magic Missile: 3 2 3 3 3 = 14
All aimed at the Ravager near Gabriel because I'm not taking any chances.
Ombligo will move forward if he has to for these actions, but I'm relatively certain he can see the Ravager right where he is.))
*Ombligo continues to crackle with electricity as another pair of spells, a Magic Missile and his Lightning Lances, are tossed into the hulking beast above Gabriel.*
===
*Faralon moves near Gorrik's position, zapping the other Ravager, as well as the nearby Drowned Eye with a Lightning Bolt from a wand he has.*
((LB: 31 electric damage total. CL 10th. If I'm not mistaken, wand is DC 20.
Drowned Eye failed the save. Ravager passed. The LB was cast at an angle so as not to hit the above ally.))

Posted by: Kaihaku Mon Sep 24, 2007 1:36 am
Sophie gasps at the appearance of the bone demons, echoing Merla's words of a moment before, "Oh my..." Then she she blinks and chuckles, glancing at the halfling wizardess with a friendly smile, "I guess we had the same reaction..." Then she turns back at the devils, her eyes narrowing seriously as she declares, "No, the Light will not allow you to take this world!" The young cleric pauses for a moment, then shouts out the holy word, "!!!"
[Spell Resistance Checks: 34, 40, 33, 26, 26]
[Will Save DC: 24] [Basically, DC 28 unless I'm misunderstanding the penalty bit.]

CODE
Holy Word(PH p242) <Evoc[good][sonic], V, 1StdAct, SR applies> Any non-Good creatures within a 40’ radius Spread who can hear the ‘holy word’ & that has no more HD than the caster suffer from the following effects (no save): up to Caster lvl: Deafened for 1d4rnds.
up to Caster lvl - 1: Blinded for 2d4 rounds & above.
up to Caster lvl - 5: Held for 1d10 minutes & above.
up to Caster lvl - 10: Dead & above.
In addition, if the caster is on his/her home plane of existence, any non-Good Extraplanar creature in the area of effect (even if the ‘holy word’ cannot be heard) that has no more HD than the caster is driven back to its home plane for at least 1 day (WillNeg at a –4 penalty).

Sophie winces as the gnomes are deafened, blinded, held, slain, and the sent back to underpants village. "Oh no! How could I have forgotten about the evil kneebiters!"
Maria coughs up a bit of blood, nodding thankfully to Jessica, "Thanks for the assist..." The psionic operative takes a few steps back and pulls her sidearm, frowning, "Whew... All of this is starting to wear me out..." She then snaps off a couple of shots at whatever.
[CORE Pistol: Ignores Armor and DR]
[Attack 1: 3 + 10 = 13]
[Damage: 9]
[Attack 2: 7 + 5 = 12]
[Damage: 17]

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Mon Sep 24, 2007 2:57 am
YOU DO NOT CONFIRM NATURAL 1s

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Mon Sep 24, 2007 2:59 am

QUOTE (VoxPVoxD @ Mon Sep 24, 2007 2:57 am)
YOU DO NOT CONFIRM NATURAL 1s

((You do not confirm nat 1s providing...
You are above level 10.
You are not using a malfunction prone weapon. EG: Grenade Launcher, most Tinker weapons, certain cursed weapons, most shoddily made weapons.))

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Mon Sep 24, 2007 3:02 am

QUOTE (TheUnknownMarine @ Sun Sep 23, 2007 9:59 pm)
((You do not confirm nat 1s providing... You are above level 10. You are not using a malfunction prone weapon. EG: Grenade Launcher, most Tinker weapons, certain cursed weapons, most shoddily made weapons.))

shouldn't you be updating

Posted by: Arcdragnbreth Mon Sep 24, 2007 5:02 am
"I'm not done yet!" the monk announced, spinning his staff in hand before grabbing it evenly in both hands. Bits of bone broke off and skeletal structure was spider-veined with stress marks from the onslaught, blows coming almost too hard and fast for the eye to see.
((Charge the Drowned Eye a couple dozen feet NW of Graigus.
Atk: 1d20 +8 (bab) +3 (str) +1 (wpn) +1 (w. foc) +1 (haste) +10 (bardic) -2 (twf) = 29
Dmg: 3d6 +1 (wpn) +2d6 (holy) +4 (str) +10 (bardic) = 30
Atk: 1d20 +8 (bab) +3 (str) +1 (wpn) +1 (w. foc) +1 (haste) +10 (bardic) -2 (twf) = 30
Dmg: 3d6 +1 (wpn) +2d6 (holy) +4 (str) +10 (bardic) = 30
Atk: 1d20 +8 (bab) +3 (str) +1 (wpn) +1 (w. foc) +1 (haste) +10 (bardic) -2 (twf) = 38
Dmg: 3d6 +1 (wpn) +2d6 (holy) +4 (str) +10 (bardic) = 36
Atk: 1d20 +3 (bab) +3 (str) +1 (wpn) +1 (w. foc) +1 (haste) +10 (bardic) -2 (twf) = 36
Dmg: 3d6 +1 (wpn) +2d6 (holy) +4 (str) +10 (bardic) = 33
Atk: 1d20 +8 (bab) +3 (str) +1 (wpn) +1 (w. foc) +1 (haste) +10 (bardic) -2 (twf) = 31
Dmg: 3d6 +1 (wpn) +2 (str) +10 (bardic) = 23
Atk: 1d20 +8 (bab) +3 (str) +1 (wpn) +1 (w. foc) +1 (haste) +10 (bardic) -5 (twf) = 36
Dmg: 3d6 +1 (wpn) +2 (str) +10 (bardic) = 23))
<}----{ Graigus }----{>
(O) 97/124 HP
(O) AC 31 (touch 28, flat 27)
(O) Stunning Fist: 8/8
(O) Hybrid Form: 2/2
(}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{)
"I will check the status of the other combatants," the templar said, aiming to patch up a few allies before circling around to punish the devils which had just appeared. Noting the lion's savage wounds, he did what he could swiftly, preparing to heal much more damage in a few more seconds.
((Move to the spot 2 squares south of the westmost Ravager.
Cast Close Wounds on Pantherath, bringing him to 8 hp.
Close Wounds: 1d4 +5 (spell) +6 (aug. heal.) = 13 hp restored.
On the defensive as much as possible.))
<}--{Pantherath }--{>
HP: 119/119
AC: 28 (17 touch, 21 flat), +1 dodge to Ravager
Smite Evil: 1/1
Turn Undead: 8/8
Turn Water/Bolster Fire: 5/8
Spells: 5/6 [L0], 8/8 [L1], 5/7 [L2], 4/7 [L3], 4/7 [L4], 1/7 [L5], 3/4 [L6]
(}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{)
((Due to an error on my part, add two more rake attacks from last round (one hit for 36 damage, one miss).))
The massive lion teetered, the wounds proving too much for him to withstand. As the life drained from him, however, the disciple of Volcanon was aided by another. Aurik closed his wounds with a spell, but his body was still too wounded to stand in battle...
Until the woren came into view, stretching his magic to the absolute edge of it's range. Just enough of the damage done to Gabriel was undone to keep him standing... and standing meant he could repay the painful debt he owed the monstrosity before him.
((Claw1: 1d20 +15 (bab) +16 (str) +3 (jim) +2 (charge) -14 (pa) +10 (bardic) +1 (haste) = nat. 1; automiss
Claw1: 1d20 +15 (bab) +18 (str) +3 (jim) -14 (pa) +10 (bardic) +1 (haste) = 42
Dmg: 2d6 +18 (str) +14 (pa) +10 (bardic) = 52
Claw1: 1d20 +15 (bab) +18 (str) +3 (jim) -14 (pa) +10 (bardic) +1 (haste) = 48
Dmg: 2d6 +18 (str) +14 (pa) +10 (bardic) = 50
Bite: 1d20 +10 (bab) +9 (str) +3 (jim) -10 (pa) +10 (bardic) +1 (haste) = 36
Dmg: 2d6 +9 (str) +14 (pa) +10 (bardic) = 40
Grapple: 1d20 +15 (bab) +16 (str) +4 (size) = 48
If successful...
Rake: 1d20 +10 (bab) +9 (str) +3 (jim) +2 (charge) -14 (pa) +10 (bardic) +1 (haste) = 38
Dmg: 2d6 +9 (str) +14 (pa) +10 (bardic) = 42))
<}----{ Gabriel }----{>
(O) 8/242 HP (186/186 HP base)
(O) AC 30 (22 touch, 23 flat)
(O) Rage: 0/2
(O) Primeval Form: 1/3
(}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{)
"Oh, for Mitula's sake... why doesn't anyone pay attention to what the hell they're doing?" Ashathel groaned, seeing the obvious danger the templar had put himself in. Trying to get the other Ravager's attention, he yelled "Hey... over here, ugly!"
Knowing that it would take more than just a few words to catch the eye of the monstrosity, he used the combination of spells upon him to advance as far as he could, adding another to the selection before he reached the Ravager's side. careful to stay away from it's massive claws, he said to the templar "Thanks for the assist, stranger, but you need to be more mindful of the big guys like him!"
((Move to the east side of Pantherath. On the defensive, dodge to the Ravager.))
<}----{ Ashathel }----{>
(O) 57/135 HP
(O) AC 36 (31 touch, 25 flat), +1 dodge to Ravager
(O) Song of Celerity: 0/1
(O) Blur (20% miss chance)
<== Spells ==>
Lv 0: Detect Magic [2]
Lv 1: Magic Missile [3], Enlarge Person, L. Orb of Sound [4]
Lv 2: Cat's Grace, Fox's Cunning, Blast of Force
Lv 3: Bolt 1 [2]
Lv 4: Ray of Deanimation

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Mon Sep 24, 2007 7:15 am
((Moving things ahead of schedule due to 95% of people posting and people telling me to move it repeatedly.)) Laeralas rains hell upon the devils while Tanis summons a lance of sound to bash into the Ravager. The spell doesn't have quite the effect the warmage hoped for, but it's noticeable nonetheless.
((Save made.))
Caius cuts down three of the Osyluths as a farmer cuts wheat, wading through their corpses to stand victorious at the edge of one of the control pits. Alexander too, manages to slay one of the fiends, leaving only a single devil which is paralyzed swiftly by Sophie's shout.
Faralon's lightning bolt damages the Drowned Eye's cybernetics, but bounces harmlessly off the Ravager.
It takes the combined power of Kria, Ombligo, Gabriel, and finally a Bolt spell from Isyndel before the monstrous Ravager next to Gabriel finally ceases its struggle and collapses.
A grenade from Villeta blows up the final Drowned Eye around Fasher, the general once more simply evading the blast.
Graigus crushes the frail bones of the Ancient skeleton before him in a whirlwind of staff blows.
((There was no DE a couple dozen feet to the NW, so I just had you kill the one you were already next to.))
Michael shoots a blast at the hulking Ravager, but the attack goes wide as Michael jerks his hand back the minute he sees a jagged nail.
The remaining Ravager leaps over the control pit to land behind Maria and Jessica, lashing out at the psions with a pair wicked claws and a vicious bite. Blood soaks the two Rangers' clothes as the monster tears into them.
((Heroic Surge to move. Hit, Hit, Hit. 114 damage to Jessica. 60 damage to Maria. Damage before DR.))
Fasher seems to do nothing this turn... But psychic power ripples around him.
Three beams of green light slice through Caius as the security guns that remain focus on him.
((Hit, Hit, Hit. 60 damage total to Caius.))
“Go back to the shadows, skulker!” one Drowned Eye calls out as a spray of bullets catches Kyoji in the chest. Kyoji is forced back and onto a knee, losing much blood.
((Hit, Miss. 42 damage to Kyoji.))
“Come along... Death itself isn't so bad...” another skeleton murmurs as it hits Kethra with a lucky shot that tears a large amount of flesh off the female monk.
((Hit! Miss. 31 damage to Kethra.))
A Torch eye beam slices into Cedric, adding another burn to the warrior's extensive wound collection.
((Hit! 20 damage to Cedric!))
“Enemy in sight. Attacking as ordered...” one of the skeletons murmurs before firing a burst at Ashathel that goes wide.
“I'm... Sorry...” one Drowned Eye gets out before firing his weapon at Tanis. The shots go wide, though.
Gilliam dashes forward, his laser already collecting energy as he stops short of the last standing mutant.
: “Get out of my way, you disgrace of science!” Gilliam shouts.
With that, the beam discharges straight into the Ravager's chest, burning it away and causing the mutant to fall back with a shriek of pain and rage, the only two things it ever felt.
((Laser attack! 52 damage from Gilliam, just enough to fry the thing. Thanks again to Faralon and his singing.))
Next turn!
The Swarm shouts out another incantation and a giant hunk of metal and stone rips itself from the floor of the base, forming itself into a humanoid form and standing ready for combat.
((Elder Earth Elemental summoned.))
Map: http://www.shinola.radh.com/guest/Rusty/MegiddoCommanda06.PNG
Deadline: Tuesday Night.

Posted by: Dark Maiden Mon Sep 24, 2007 8:34 am
Jessica screams as the Ravager tears into her with its claws. The Psion slumps to the ground in a pool of her own blood. [Fort save failed, Jess is at -6 and dying] Kayla drinks another potion and moves to the west. [6 squares west, and a potion of CMW wounds. +14 HP]
Kethra now sets her sights on the skeleton, seeing as how the Shade has vanished.
[3 squares north.
Attack: 5 + 11 (BAB) + 2 (Str) + 5 (Music) = 23
Damage: 10 + 2 (Str) + 10 (Orb) + 5 (Music) = 27
Dodge to that skeleton.]
Merla makes a few gestures and murmurs a few arcane words. She extends her hand and five glowing blue magic missiles fly from her palm and into the Earth Elemental.
[Magic Missile on the Earth Elemental.
Damage: 1 + 4 + 2 + 4 + 4 + 5 = 20]

Posted by: Knight_019 Mon Sep 24, 2007 3:37 pm
*Mahler continues assailing the skeleton before him, crashing blow after blow into it.* : GO *Crack* HOME! *Smash* *Unfortunately, neither punch lands against anything solid, and the cracking and smashing is instead due to the counterattack of the drowned eye. Mahler would have his revenge.*
*Aurik rushes hurriedly to Gabriel's side, gaining a faint white glow once again. He raises his holy symbol, then touches a hand to the lion's shoulder. Wave upon wave of healing energy channels its way into Gabriel's body, leaving him almost unscathed.*
: I hope you've still got more fight left in you. We have more work to do, *Aurik grins.*
((Move up to Gabe, use divine spell power
1d20 + 8 = 15 + 8 = 23.
Aurik casts as 4 levels higher (CL 22, since healing).
Aurik casts Heal.
Gabriel heals 220 hp.))
*Dagron buzzes over Caius' head with a "Whoops, excuse me" before stopping immediately in front of the earth elemental.*
: Yeah, let's see you touch me, rockface.
*Dagron opens his mouth wide as though ready to bite into the primordial stone, but instead, waves of flame extend out and wash over the earth elemental, extending past it all the way up to Sheila, stopping just a foot or so in front of her face. The fire continues to dance over those affected.*
((Dagron flies to the square directly in front of the earth elemental and uses empowered, clinging fire breath.
It deals (3d10)*1.5 = (4+5+5)*1.5 = 14*1.5 = 21 fire damage and clings to those failing their reflex save, dealing half damage next round. It will cover up to the squares directly in front of Sheila as well as getting the Shade-doppelganger, Swarm, and Fasher.
Dagron makes a Knowledge: Planes check for 1d20 + 17 = 11 + 17 = 28, which should reveal traits like Earth Mastery, which Dagron will exploit. It takes a -4 to hit and damage against Dagron (or any other flying creature at that).
Dagron's current AC is 39.))

Posted by: Alpha Mon Sep 24, 2007 4:52 pm
The daggerspell chants a couple of magical words, and his daggers become outlined in silver fire. He then moves off in the same direction as Dagron, saying "Excuse me, too!" to Caius, as he takes a detour to walk straight through the half elf, chuckling all the while at the effects of his blink spell. Proceeding with his rush towards the elemental, he strikes out with one of his daggers. As it makes contact with the elemental, there's a slight surge from the dagger, as some arcane energy is released, sucking the heat from Laeral's target.
[Cast Daggerspell Stance as a swift action.
Move into the square next to Dagron, running through Caius as he does so, whilst avoiding AoOs, though I can tumble if need be.
Attack: 1d20(14) + 8(bab) + 8(dex) + 1(focus) +1(encht) - 2(twf) + 1(haste) + 1(elation) + 2(heroism) + 5(Faralon) = 39
Damage: 1d6(4) + 6(str) + 1(ench) + 1(aura) + 5(Faralon) - 10(DR) = 7
Release the dagger's stored spell, Shivering Touch as a free action. It deals 15 DEX damage, which should drop it to 0, thus paralysing it]
==========
Regarding the drowned eye gravely, Tanis replies.
: "So am I. But this needs to end," and he begins casting a spell to take it down. However, he glances over to his left, and notices a lone drowned eye that would be out of the way for other people to attack. Switching targets, he launches a sound lance at it, before moving right and north.
[Cast Sound Lance at the bottom left DE.
Damage: 10d8 + 4 = 47
Fort save DC21 for half damage
Then move 2 spaces right, 10 spaces up]

Posted by: Wandering Dezorian Mon Sep 24, 2007 10:15 pm
((Sigh. I looked at this thread as I left the house on Friday for my weekend trip, and saw that Monday evening was the post deadline. Now that I'm back, I check the thread, and what do I find? Some people just have no patience. Ah, well, just lets me do a nifty combo move I've been saving up. Quick question for whoever happens to be chief tactician right now, since I haven't been following the battle. My gnomes can attempt to disable one of the casters, or just cause general mayhem. Which is needed more?))

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Mon Sep 24, 2007 10:17 pm

QUOTE (Wandering Dezorian @ Mon Sep 24, 2007 10:15 pm)
((Sigh. I looked at this thread as I left the house on Friday for my weekend trip, and saw that Monday evening was the post deadline. Now that I'm back, I check the thread, and what do I find? Some people just have no patience. Ah, well, just lets me do a nifty combo move I've been saving up. Quick question for whoever happens to be chief tactician right now, since I haven't been following the battle. My gnomes can attempt to disable one of the casters, or just cause general mayhem. Which is needed more?))

((Sorry, WD, but you've been away for so long, I pretty much figured you were on one of your "disappearing trips." : / Considering that the bulk of the enemy forces now consist of grunts and even those are dwindling in number, I'd say casters.))

Posted by: Rusty Mon Sep 24, 2007 10:29 pm
((Casters. Definitely casters. Also, Alpha should deal 5 more points of damage through Bardic Music. Yes, it's dropped down to +5 to attack and damage and +6 to saves vs. charms and fear stuffs. I will take my actions in a little while.))

Posted by: BLT Mon Sep 24, 2007 10:43 pm
His work not finished, Caius spies one last devil nearby and points a scimitar at it threateningly as he danced towards it. He slashed it three times in quick succession before letting the thing fall to the ground dead. Which stroke killed it, Caius didn't care as he spun to look for his next target, only to find the field rather vacant of enemies.
((attack the Osyluth. I made 6 attacks, but these ought to be enough to kill it so I'm not adding the rest up.
Attack 1: 18(49). confirm: 13 (44). Crit.
damage: 5+2 +[24x2] = 55 +9good
attack 2: 8 +32 = 40
damage: 2 +23 = 25+1 elec
attack 3: 12+32 = 44
damage: 6 +25 = 31 +9good))

Posted by: Rusty Tue Sep 25, 2007 12:27 am
((The DE by Mahler has apparently moved to the right as a result of something. TUM can verify. As such, Ombligo will float up and zap the two DE on the right. He'll float up until he can see the one he's targetting, which is the one closest to Mahler.
Damage: 4 6 5 5 6 4 6 3 5 6 = 50 electricity damage + 3 sonic damage. No save vs. this damage. However, there is a save that they both must make or be stunned. FORT save DC 22 to negate the possible one round stun effect. AIM loves Ombligo.))
*Ombligo floats forward, casting a very powerful Bolt spell at the Drowned Eye near his rocky friend.*
: "CHUUUUUUUUUU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"

Posted by: Kaihaku Tue Sep 25, 2007 1:30 am
Cedric grinds his teeth as Kethra is brutally attacked, his eyes narrowing with anger as he steps towards the drowned eye, spitting out, "Then you'll be pleased to face death again!!!" He lashes out with great lashitude. [Power Attack 5] [Attack 1: 40 - 5 = 35]
[Damage: 25 + 4 [Elec] + 2 [Sonic]]
[Attack H: 41 - 5 = 36]
[Damage: 28 + 2 [Elec] + 6 [Sonic]]
[Attack 2: 35 - 5 = 30]
[Damage: 21 + 1 [Elec] + 4 [Sonic]]
[Attack 3: 19]
Jessica… Maria slips past Sheila, giving herself a clear view of the psionic lich for the first time, her eyes narrowed with anger, "You had enough willpower to burn away your world but you don't have enough to throw off the shackles of fiends?! Fiends, the same creatures who forced your hand a thousand years ago?!" She points a finger towards the Lich, flames erupting around it then blasting forth in a powerful fireball.
[Maximized Energy Ray(Flame) 1 PP Augment: 13 PP]
[Ranged Touch: 14 + 10 + 5 = 29]
[PR Check: 15 + 14 + 4 = 33]
[Damage: 98 Fire : No Save]
Maria cries out in anger as the flames surge forth, "You are pathetic! Bragging about you mental prowess when you can't even free yourself and face your true enemies!"
With a frown, Sophie moves after the others, calling out, "Be careful!"
[M - To the big computer monitors, 1 square east of Lae on the map]

Posted by: Lord Oddeye Tue Sep 25, 2007 1:48 am
Enrick smirks and touches Alexander's armor. : "*chuckle* It's cold." The frilly noble then chants another quick spell and vanishes from natural sight almost instantly. ((Cast Enlarge Person on Alexander. Use one charge of the circlet of Rapid Casting to cast Invisibility. (swift action)
Move to the right of Graigus.))

Posted by: Kaihaku Tue Sep 25, 2007 2:58 am
((TUM: ... TUM: It just occured to me who Coventry would like as a little kid. TUM: Arnold from Magic School Bus TUM: Glasses, hair, face, it's all there. TUM: Just a completely different personality))
Coventry frowns at the bloodshed all around him, adjusting his glasses nervously, "I knew I should have stayed home today!"
...or not...
Doctor Dragonman hesitates for a moment, considering his options with a glance around the battlefield, then his eyes flash at some memory and a smirk more a snarl crosses his draconic features, "You lost me my shield, how kind of you to offer me another...defender..."
[Move Action: Coventry takes Gorrik's Shield]
[If Gorrik has no shield, he takes something else of value...with different commentary.]
He then takes a step to the south, his eyes narrowing as he snaps a clawed finger in the air, growling out a word of power and causing a torrent of water to spring into existence above Kria.
[Create Water]
[Reflex DC: 15 for half soaking]
((Looting allies, Coventry learned well from Dicem.))

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Tue Sep 25, 2007 3:13 am
: "Come on, come on, come on... Got it!" Sheila shouts as the last of the sentry guns detonate under the hail of shots unleashed by the agent. Whirling around towards the Torch Eye, Sheila shouts, "Your turn!" The last Torch Eye soon meets its demise under a hail of EMP-charged rounds.
((Hit, Hit, Hit, Hit, Hit, Hit. Rapidshot+Hypermode. Sentry Guns and one Torch Eye destroyed.))
Beset by the Kensai and the monk, the Drowned Eye has no chance. It throws up its arms and shrieks as the two batter it to death once more.
A cold chill passes over Kethra just as Cedric and herself finish bashing in the Drowned Eye in front of them. A swift memory of herself training to attack invisible opponents with Kyoji flashes through her mind just as she realizes her error. Then the first of the swords darts from the shadows behind her...
: "Finish what you start..." the Shade whispers as he slides his ethereal blades into the monk, withdrawing them from her body to face the paladin. "Now... Look alive... and end this..."
((Critical Hit! Critical Hit! Hit! Kethra takes 106 damage from three attacks. The Shade reappears SW of Kethra's current position on the map, IE, after she bashed the Drowned Eye.))

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Tue Sep 25, 2007 3:58 am
Telanna turns in time to see the Doctor loot the prone Gorrik. : "Hey! What the hell do you think you're doing?" She moves towards him. ((Move to the square to the left of Gorrik, which should be directly north of Coventry)) Zook turns on his heel to fire three shots at the lone Drowned Eye in the southwest, leaving it a pile of bone shards and cybernetics.
((3 hits. 20 + 9 holy, 21 + 8 holy, 18 + 9 holy. It's re-dead))
"Oh dear!" Hal cries when he sees Jessica downed by the brutality of the Ravager. The friar vanishes in a flash of brilliant white light, appearing at the medic's side instantaneously.
"Hello again!" he says brightly to the bleeding figure, before hunching down and laying his hands on her wounds. He murmurs ancient words of life and renewal and his hands glow briefly. When he pulls away, the wounds are gone. Hal smiles. "That ought to do it."
((Burning the rest of Hal's turn attempts for a Divine Metamagic[Quickened] Teleport to the square left of Jess. He casts Heal at +2 CL, restoring 160 HP))

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Tue Sep 25, 2007 4:47 am
((Partial update.)) Merla's magic missile slams into the hulking elemental, but don't seem to do much. Tanis' Sound Lance blasts off an arm and a few ribs from his target but leaves it still standing. Caius slashes apart the last of the fiends with ease, the dying devil calling out a curse on the swordsman's house before he bursts into sulfurous dust.
Mahler's stony fists miss their targets, but he is struck by a double burst from the weapon of the Drowned Eye's minigun just moments before the skeleton is struck down by Ombligo's lightning.
The sphere of force around the Swarm protects him, while Fasher once more evades the breathing dragon. The Earth Elemental takes the full force of the fiery wave, but it doesn't seem to affect him much. A section of his stony form glows with heat, though. The rocky enemy tries to punch Dagron in the jaw as he flies up to him. For a moment it looks like the blow will land, then Laeralas appears and strikes, draining the strength to move from the rocky beast. The earth elemental's fist grinds to a halt inches from Dagron's cheek.
Two of the cybernetic zombies from early suddenly appear, flying near the two entrances.
“WITNESS YOUR DOOOOOOM!!!!” they shout as they unleash crackling lightning from their fingers that arcs from member to member. Sheila shouts and dives to the floor to barely avoid a sizzling bolt over her head.
((Lightning Ball, Augmented. 57 electricity damage, Ref save DC28 for half. Affected are, Melissa, Sheila, Maria, Okori, Jessica, Hal, Alexander, Caius, Merla, Johann and Company, and Sophie. Sheila fails her Ref save, then uses Dive for Cover to reroll, but end up prone. Second save passes with the help of an action point. Psi-Zombies are flying 40' up.))
Partially updated map.
http://img215.imageshack.us/img215/9302/megiddocommanda07fo3.png

Posted by: Kaihaku Tue Sep 25, 2007 7:50 am

QUOTE (VoxPVoxD @ Mon Sep 24, 2007 9:58 pm)
Telanna turns in time to see the Doctor loot the prone Gorrik. : "Hey! What the hell do you think you're doing?" She moves towards him.

"I think that I am snatching a shield..." The dragonman explains slowly, careful not to lose Telanna in his complicated thought process, "...from someone who does not need it right now." He glances at Gorrik darkly, possibly pondering kicking the helpless dwarf in the balls, "Besides, he deserves far worse...far worse..."
He turns to the girl, arching what would be eyebrows if dragonmen had eyebrows, "What the hell do you think you're doing?"

Posted by: Rusty Tue Sep 25, 2007 11:07 am
((Using Heroic Destiny. I get to add 1d6 to my saving throw. Heroic Destiny: 4. REF save: 17 + 10 + 1 + 1 + 4 = 33 pass anyway. I have a Ring of Evasion. I don't know if this will negate the damage entirely or what...? Power Attack 6 on the Elemental. Also, charge.
Roll to hit...14 + 13 [BAB] - 6 [PA] + 5 [music] + 5 [STR w/ Elation] + 1 [focus] + 1 [magic] + 2 [charge] = 35.
Damage: 6 + 1 = 7 [sword] + 6 [PA] + 5 [music] + 5 [STR w/ Elation] + 1 [magic] = 24.
As usual, the attack ignores 5 points of DR.))
*Alexander leaps out of the way of the blast of electricity and charges at the Earth Elemental.*
: "Gah! Dagron, Eve, and anyone else that can: get that thing! I'm going after that statue of rock!"
*Alexander chops at the unmoving hulk of rock, chipping away some of its form slightly.*
===
*Eve charges forward, driving her lance into the zombie psion.*
((I don't think Eve needs to make a REF save, but in case she does, I just played it safe and rolled.
18 + 13 = 31. Which would pass.
So Vox rolled the to-hit, and I rolled the rest. It's a charge on the nearest Psion, who is SW of Alex.
Roll to hit...10 + 11 [BAB] + 1 [focus] + 1 [Haste] + 5 [music] + 9 [STR w/ Elation] + 2 [Weapon] + 2 [Class ability] - 1 [Size] + 2 [charge] = 42. Hit!
Damage: (3 [lance] + 2 [Weapon Specialization] + 5 [music] + 9 [STR w/ Elation] + 2 [Weapon])*2 + 7 [powerful charge] + 10 [holy] = 59.))

Posted by: Aldur Tue Sep 25, 2007 12:38 pm
((Yawned. Passed.)) Kria blinks, seeing the torrent of water, blinking, looking around to see who did it. She tutted, muttering under her breath, remembering the last person who attempted to soak her. "Please don't toy with me, like this is very important!" She called out to no one in particular.

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Tue Sep 25, 2007 1:17 pm

QUOTE (Kaihaku @ Tue Sep 25, 2007 2:50 am)
"I think that I am snatching a shield..." The dragonman explains slowly, careful not to lose Telanna in his complicated thought process, "...from someone who does not need it right now." He glances at Gorrik darkly, possibly pondering kicking the helpless dwarf in the balls, "Besides, he deserves far worse...far worse..."
He turns to the girl, arching what would be eyebrows if dragonmen had eyebrows, "What the hell do you think you're doing?"

Telanna gapes at the Doctor's audacity, and she stares at him, unbelieving, with her brilliant green eyes.
: "What? You can't just... Whatever. There are more important things to deal with right now." Her head whips around at the sound of the newly apparent psions at the far end of the room. "We've got to help them!"
((Use the rest of my hasted movement to move 6 squares north))

Posted by: BLT Tue Sep 25, 2007 5:21 pm
((Ref save: 13+16 +haste = 29+whatever, pass. HP: 48/136))

Posted by: Dark Maiden Tue Sep 25, 2007 7:17 pm
Kethra has a brief flashback of the time she trained with Kyoji, to learn how to fight invisible enemies. The monk realizes that she made an error, but not soon enough. The Shade whispers to her, "Finish what you start...", as he thrusts his swords into her back. The only response the ghostly assassin gets from her is the sound Kethra gurgling and coughing up blood. When he pulls the swords out of her, she slumps to the ground.
[-21, so Kethra's dead again.
Reflex Saves:
Jessica - 18
Merla - 28]
Jessica staggers to her feet, only to be hurt again.

Posted by: Arcdragnbreth Tue Sep 25, 2007 9:50 pm
"I'm coming, Mahler!" Charging straight towards the gun-toting undead, the monk skidded to a halt just in front of the Drowned Eye, his staff hitting hard as he let the ancient soldier absorb his momentum to bring him to a halt. ((Charge the Drowned Eye a couple dozen feet NW of Graigus.
Fist of Iron channeled through staff. Stunning Fist attempt used.
Atk: 1d20 +9 (bab) +3 (str) +1 (wpn) +1 (w. foc) +1 (haste) +5 (bardic) +2 (charge) = 30
Dmg: 3d6 +1 (wpn) +2d6 (holy) +1d6 (f.o.i) +4 (str) +5 (bardic) = 35))
<}----{ Graigus }----{>
(O) 97/124 HP
(O) AC 31 (touch 28, flat 27)
(O) Stunning Fist: 7/8
(O) Hybrid Form: 2/2
(}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{)
"You should be careful; your wounds are greivous. Allow your healer to tend to you before you progress further," Pantherath said, turning away from the elft and heading back towards the direction from which he came. Coming to a halt, he glanced at the scene about him; to the south, the monk's injuries threatened to be the last of her; to the north, a new menace approached. Stretching out a hand to either target, he expended two spells - one to harm, one to heal.
((Move 8 squares west.
Cast Close Wounds on Kethra, bringing her up to -8 hp and stable.
Close Wounds: 1d4 +5 (spell) +4 (aug. heal.) = 13 hp restored.
And since that was a swift action... drop two 4th level spells via Versatile Spellcaster to cast ye old Downdraft on the westmost Psionic Lich. Save or no, it's dropping at least 50 feet - more than enough for it to take ye old falling damage.
Falling damage: =))
<}--{Pantherath }--{>
HP: 119/119
AC: 28 (17 touch, 21 flat), +1 dodge to Ravager
Smite Evil: 1/1
Turn Undead: 8/8
Turn Water/Bolster Fire: 5/8
Spells: 5/6 [L0], 8/8 [L1], 4/7 [L2], 4/7 [L3], 2/7 [L4], 1/7 [L5], 3/4 [L6]
(}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{)
"Pfftt... showoff..." Ashathel muttered, glancing back in time to see the Woren both save Kethra and bring the undead psion to the ground. "Oh come on... who the hell is this guy?"
Shaking his head, he shrugged and called to the massive lion, "Gabe! Look northwest; I think there's a lich with your name on it!"
Then, eyeing the Drowned Eye soldier near Telanna's position greedily, he said "And this one's mine!"
((Move to the side of the Drowned Eye north of Telanna and attack.
Atk: 1d20 +14 (bab) +10 (wpn) +4 (dex) +3 (greaves) +5 (bardic) +1 (haste) -5 (c. exp.) = 32
Dmg: 7d6 (wpn) +2 (str) +3 (greaves) +10 (bardic) = 33))
<}----{ Ashathel }----{>
(O) 57/135 HP
(O) AC 36 (31 touch, 25 flat), +1 dodge to Ravager
(O) Song of Celerity: 0/1
(O) Blur (20% miss chance)
<== Spells ==>
Lv 0: Detect Magic [2]
Lv 1: Magic Missile [3], Enlarge Person, L. Orb of Sound [4]
Lv 2: Cat's Grace, Fox's Cunning, Blast of Force
Lv 3: Bolt 1 [2]
Lv 4: Ray of Deanimation
(}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{)
I hate liches, Gabriel thought, baring his teeth. I hate them so much...
Roaring in response to the go-ahead, the dire lion bounded off to the northwest. Timing himself, he leaped well over Varro's still form, coming down on the lich with claws and fangs.
((Jump: 1d20 +9 (ranks) +2 (syn) +18 (str) +20 (spd) = 63. Leap attack successful; 2x PA damage
Claw1: 1d20 +15 (bab) +18 (str) +3 (jim) +2 (charge) -10 (pa) +5 (bardic) +1 (haste) +2 (charge) = nat. 1; automiss
Claw2: 1d20 +15 (bab) +18 (str) +3 (jim) +2 (charge) -10 (pa) +5 (bardic) +1 (haste) +2 (charge) = 43
Dmg: 2d6 +18 (str) +20 (pa) +10 (bardic) = 57
Claw3: 1d20 +15 (bab) +16 (str) +3 (jim) +2 (charge) -10 (pa) +5 (bardic) +1 (haste) +2 (charge) = 36 8
Dmg: 2d6 +18 (str) +20 (pa) +10 (bardic) = 57
Bite: 1d20 +10 (bab) +9 (str) +3 (jim) -10 (pa) +5 (bardic) +1 (haste) +2 (charge) = 38
Dmg: 2d6 +9 (str) +20 (pa) +10 (bardic) = 48
Rake1: 1d20 +10 (bab) +9 (str) +3 (jim) -10 (pa) +5 (bardic) +1 (haste) +2 (charge) = 23
Dmg: 2d6 +9 (str) +20 (pa) +10 (bardic) = 44
Rake2: 1d20 +10 (bab) +9 (str) +3 (jim) -10 (pa) +5 (bardic) +1 (haste) = 35
Dmg: 2d6 +9 (str) +20 (pa) +10 (bardic) = 47))
<}----{ Gabriel }----{>
(O) 226/242 HP (186/186 HP base)
(O) AC 30 (22 touch, 23 flat)
(O) Rage: 0/2
(O) Primeval Form: 1/3

Posted by: Cyrus Wed Sep 26, 2007 2:16 am
Okori's form phases out of existence amongst the streaks of lightning, only to watch as nearly all of his allies are electrocuted by the insidious psion. Bringing another mirror of light into creation, he fires yet another Lucent Lance, hoping to disable the undead mind mage before he could continue to capitalize on the damage doled out by the fiends around them. The spirit's eyes widen in surprise, though, when the lance shatters the corpse's skull, blowing away any portion of the enemy he had hoped to disable and scattering it all over the floor. Ick, the fox comments, moving slightly away from his kill. Just...ick.
[Lucent Lance. Again.
Attack Roll: 1d20(11)+9(BAB)+6(DEX)=26 touch.
Damage: 3 4 1 2 1 3 6 4 2 1 2 = 29.
Caster level check, if needed: 1d20(5)+11=16.
If hit, pysker is blinded.]

Posted by: Wandering Dezorian Wed Sep 26, 2007 2:20 am
Sha’aasta ref 4+12 = 16. Holzgeist ref 9+8 = 17. Improved evasion = 1/2 damage. Johann ref 3+14 = 17. I can’t roll higher than a 3? “That’s them!” the diviner whispered fiercely. “Those are the ones I saw. We’re almost there, Sha’aasta.” The girl grinned savagely at him, and he bared his teeth just as fiercely back, turning to knee Holzgeist into a sprint, arcane words pouring from his mouth...
... when a surge of lightning blasted through the room. All three of the agile woodlanders were caught flatfooted and unprepared as the powerful surges ripped through their team. The gnomes were thrown from the wolf as convulsions wracked his body, Johann sliding over a human’s body length along the floor before he could push himself to his feet. Holzgeist was hurt, but alive. Sha’aasta was in far worse shape, though. Burn holes peppered her clothes, and the skin underneath had a charred, ashy grey look.
And Johann went insane.
With a scream of rage that bordered on inhuman, he exploded in a mass of fur, boiling upwards until his body stood twice as tall as a man. Powerful foreclaws shook with scarcely controlled anger as the dire bear began to march resolutely towards the visible leaders.
An earth elemental appeared in his path, but the dire bear didn’t change his course a whit. His head tilted back as he roared his loss, and a faintly shimmering field appeared. When it touched the earth elemental, the creature vanished instantly, as did the image of the Shade as it moved to confront him. Johann, however, had eyes only for the Swarm and the General, and his eyes promised death.
Holzgeist, however, had seen what Johann had not. Wounded as she was, Sha’aasta was still breathing. Whining like a puppy, he whined towards the healer who had talked with Sha’aasta earlier, then lept towards the zombie that had hurt the trio so badly. He would buy Sha’aasta what time he could.
Johann wildshapes into a dire bear! (+14 HP from resting, putting him at 23 HP. +28 temporary HP for current shape.)
Johann casts anti-magic field!
Johann moves 80’ (Over the two turns), putting him 5’ beyond the earth elemental. The earth elemental vanishes, as does the shade illusion, while Johann is there.
Sha’aasta is at –4 HP. Sha’aasta tries to stabalize, fails, and drops to –5 HP.
Holzgeist is at 30 HP. Holzgeist moves next to and attacks the zombie. For two rounds.
Round 1 attack- natural 1. Check- 8 + 12 = 20 + mods. Probably safe.
Round 2 attack- natural 20. Damage = 16 + mods.
Trip attack- 17 + 24 + mods = massive. Zombie is down!

Posted by: Kaihaku Wed Sep 26, 2007 2:31 am
((Apologizes Aldur, while the action was IC the timing most certainly was not. After certain...incidents, I've found it increasingly difficult to remain in character with the Doctor but I'll make an attempt not to do take OoC action in such a drastic manner again...at least, not when it involves your characters.))

QUOTE (VoxPVoxD @ Tue Sep 25, 2007 7:17 am)
Telanna gapes at the Doctor's audacity, and she stares at him, unbelieving, with her brilliant green eyes. : "What? You can't just... Whatever. There are more important things to deal with right now." Her head whips around at the sound of the newly apparent psions at the far end of the room. "We've got to help them!"

"I can't what?" The dragonman calls after her tauntingly, "I think I just did."

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Wed Sep 26, 2007 3:05 am
Alexander dodges the lightning, leaping forward to cleave into the elemental before him. As her fearless leader advances, Eve flies up and into the cybernetic zombie, driving her lance deep into the enemy psychic. “You... Will pay... For your arrogance!” the zombie spits at her.
The other psion utters a string of curses as Pantherath's spell plucks him from the air and sends him crashing to the floor. Gabriel leaps onto the downed psychic and begins tearing into him, the shrieks of the undead echoing through the halls as it is torn to pieces.
((Psi-Zombie slain.))
Ash's sword slices cleanly through the skeleton, the unholy light in its eyes fading as its corpse falls to the ground in two large pieces.
Graigus slams into the Drowned Eye near Mahler, bashing its skull with his staff. Cracks and fractures spiderweb across the skeleton's head, but it doesn't collapse.
Kyoji dashes towards the ghostly Shade, lashing out with his ancient Force Dagger. The energy blade tears out a hunk of protoplasm and the assassin looks at the ninja with ire.
((Hit! Ghost Strike used, bypassing the Shade's incorporeality.
Michael blasts apart the Drowned Eye near Varro with but a mere gesture.
: “Keep it up, we've almost got them!” Jim shouts, taking aim and firing a trio of three round bursts at the last Psi-Zombie. The undead gasps, and begins to speak, but then Okori's Lucent Lance catches him. With a moan, the psion crashes to the ground, where an eager dire wolf rips him into many shreds.
((Hit, Hit, Hit. 112 damage to the Psi-Zombie. Okori's spell makes it go under, Holzgeist finishes the job.))
: "It appears we've already lost this place... So be it. I will die fighting once more," Fasher breathes as power swirls around him and wounds suddenly open on Hal and Laeralas' bodies. Dagron feels an intruding presence in his mind, but manages to push it out at the last moment.
((Schism action: Hostile Empathic Transfer. Laeralas saves and takes half damage, for 45 damage. Fasher heals 45 damage. Action: Mind Thrust, Full Augmented. Dagron saves and takes no damage. Quickened Power: Hostile Empathic Transfer: Hal saves and takes 45 damage. Fasher heals 45 damage.))
Gilliam dashes forward, gun firing, but failing to hit anything.
: "Fasher! Prepare to pay for your crimes!" Gilliam shouts.
: "Then who will make everyone else pay for theirs?!" Fasher shoots back.
The few remaning Drowned Eye fire their weapons, but only a single burst manages to hit Isyndel.
((Hit, Miss, Miss, Miss. Isyndel takes 38 damage.))
Next turn!
http://img166.imageshack.us/img166/4948/megiddocommanda07agl0.png

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Wed Sep 26, 2007 4:20 am
Hal grunts as huge welts spread over his back and stomach, the pain almost forcing him to double over. Gagging back blood, his face blotched red and white, he staggers forward, clapping his hands together. "Gratias tibi ago, Luce. Tuus in terra servus nuntius fui officium perfeci. Actiones nostras, quaesumus Luce, aspirando praeveni, et adiuvando prosequere: ut cuncta nosta oratio, et operatio a te semper incipiat, et per ta coepta finiatur. Adoro Te Devote. Fiat Lux."
A warm white light begins to spread out from the friar, healing everyone who comes in contact with it.
((Move to the square southwest of the Swarm. Cast Mass Cure Moderate Wounds, empowered with Radiant Servant class ability. (10+16) x 1.5 = 39 HP restored to everyone in the top section of the map who isn't dead or unhealable -- and also Johann, with his AMF
Also, I feel like laughing even saying this, but Fasher also takes 39 damage, WILL DC 25 for half))
Telanna stops and turns around, giving the dragonman a scathing look -- as if to say oh, grow up -- before moving forward again.
Zook looks down, and checks his ammo. Three bullets left. Damnit. Out of the corner of his eye he sees the Shade and Kyoji fighting intensely. He waits only a moment, and finds an opening. He swings his rifle around and fires three times, bolts of white flame striking the ghost as if he were flesh and bone. When the final bullet hits him, he groans and dissolves into a pile of ectoplasm, a single spinning ring hits the metal floor. A look of fierce happiness crosses Zook's face.
"Two to go..." he mutters, before calling out to Kyoji. "Hey! Pick that ring up, if you don't mind!"
((Zook fires the last of his holy ghost touch bullets at the Shade, re-killing him and opening the possibility to learn a special))
map updated as of my actions:
http://img165.imageshack.us/img165/1466/megiddocommanda07abr9.png

Posted by: Wandering Dezorian Wed Sep 26, 2007 4:37 am
Johann continues his inexorable advance towards the swarm, then turns in passing to sink a cruel claw into the General's shoulder. Digging into the wound for purchase, the beast drags the general into his embrace, trying to crush the very life out of his foe.
Johann moves 15' west, bringing both of the foes into the antimagic field and into his reach.
Johann attacks! Attack 1: 15 + 9 (BAB) + 10 (str) -1 (size) = 33 (No mods due to field) Hit!
Damage: 2d4 + 10 = 15
Johann gets a free grapple check! 19 + 23 (Dire bear skill) = 42. Methinks he's grappled, neh?
If the grapple succeeds, the General suffers 13 additional damage from the grapple, and Johann moves into the General's square. This means he'll also be right next to the Swarm.
Holzgeist holds for a minute, assessing the situation.
Sha'aasta tries to stabilize, and fails. She's now at -6.

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Wed Sep 26, 2007 4:48 am

QUOTE (Wandering Dezorian @ Tue Sep 25, 2007 11:37 pm)
Johann continues his inexorable advance towards the swarm, then turns in passing to sink a cruel claw into the General's shoulder. Digging into the wound for purchase, the beast drags the general into his embrace, trying to crush the very life out of his foe.
Johann moves 15' west, bringing both of the foes into the antimagic field and into his reach.
Johann attacks! Attack 1: 15 + 9 (BAB) + 10 (str) -1 (size) = 33 (No mods due to field) Hit!
Damage: 2d4 + 10 = 15
Johann gets a free grapple check! 19 + 23 (Dire bear skill) = 42. Methinks he's grappled, neh?
If the grapple succeeds, the General suffers 13 additional damage from the grapple, and Johann moves into the General's square. This means he'll also be right next to the Swarm.
Holzgeist holds for a minute, assessing the situation.
Sha'aasta tries to stabilize, and fails. She's now at -6.

sha'aasta was one of the people who got healed by Hal

Posted by: Rusty Wed Sep 26, 2007 9:40 am
*Faralon runs forward, seeing the stranger tend to Kethra. He nods his thanks as he turns and fires an arrow at the Drowned Eye, who is sure to perish soon enough.* ((Faralon uses his special again, boosting the bonuses to +10 to attack and damage and +12 to saves vs. charm and fear. This lasts 4 rounds.
He'll also move up 40' and attack the Drowned Eye. Just because.
Roll to hit...10 + 9 [BAB] + 4 [DEX] + 1 [magic] + 1 [haste] + 10 [music] = 35
Damage: 6 [arrow] + 1 [STR] + 1 [magic] + 10 [music] = 18. lulz))
===
*The elemental winks back in before Alexander gets a chance to run through with Johann. He frowns.*
: "This thing is just in the way. Going around it would take too long and get too crowded. Well, it won't show any resistance, it seems, so I may as well go all out."
((Free action: Divine Might.
Power Attack: 10
Roll to hit...19 + 13 [BAB] - 10 [PA] + 6 [STR w/ Elation and Enlarge] + 1 [magic] + 1 [haste] + 10 [music] + 1 [focus] - 1 [size] = 40. Hit.
Damage: (3 + 2 = 5) [enlarged longsword] + 10 [PA] + 6 [STR w/ Elation and Enlarge] + 1 [magic] + 10 [music] + 8 [Divine Might] + 1 [aura] = 41.
Roll to hit...15 + 8 [BAB] - 10 [PA] + 6 [STR w/ Elation and Enlarge] + 1 [magic] + 1 [haste] + 10 [music] + 1 [focus] - 1 [size] = 31. Hit.
Damage: (4 + 3 = 7) [enlarged longsword] + 10 [PA] + 6 [STR w/ Elation and Enlarge] + 1 [magic] + 10 [music] + 8 [Divine Might] + 1 [aura] = 43.
Roll to hit...7 + 3 [BAB] - 10 [PA] + 6 [STR w/ Elation and Enlarge] + 1 [magic] + 1 [haste] + 10 [music] + 1 [focus] - 1 [size] = 18. Hit. (Because the elemental's DEX is 1, its AC has also lowered by 4 points. Thus, 18 actually hits.)
Damage: (5 + 5 = 10) [enlarged longsword] + 10 [PA] + 6 [STR w/ Elation and Enlarge] + 1 [magic] + 10 [music] + 8 [Divine Might] + 1 [aura] = 46.
Haste Attack. Roll to hit...13 + 13 [BAB] - 10 [PA] + 6 [STR w/ Elation and Enlarge] + 1 [magic] + 1 [haste] + 10 [music] + 1 [focus] - 1 [size] = 34. Hit.
Damage: (3 + 6 = 9) [enlarged longsword] + 10 [PA] + 6 [STR w/ Elation and Enlarge] + 1 [magic] + 10 [music] + 8 [Divine Might] + 1 [aura] = 45.
After DR, that totals 155, since Alex ignores 5 points of DR per attack.))
*With surprising might, Alexander rips through the elemental with his longsword, trying to cut it down to clear a path for the rest of his allies.*
===
*Eve charges at the elemental in hopes to finish it off once and for all.*
((If it's still up, Eve will charge it.
Roll to hit...5 + 11 [BAB] + 9 [STR w/ Elation] + 1 [Focus] + 2 [Class ability] + 2 [Weapon] - 1 [Size] + 10 [Music] + 1 [Haste] + 2 [Charge] = 42.
Damage: (2 [lance] + 9 [STR w/ Elation] + 2 [Weapon Specialization] + 10 [Music] + 2 [Weapon])*2 + (2 + 6) [powerful charge = 58. Given the fire damage caused by Dagron, the damage inflicted from Laeralas and Alexander both this and last round, this thing should be toast.))
===
*Ombligo floats towards Cedric. Out of the corner of his eye, he sees Hal, weaponless, right up against a horrible evil. Deciding Cedric would probably be charging that way anyway, Ombligo decides to shorten his trip with a spell that swaps Cedric's and Hal's positions on the battlefield.*
((Ombligo's going to cast Benign Transposition on Cedric and Hal, if they're willing. First, he'll move to a position where he can see both of them. Then, he'll cast it. Assuming I didn't read WD's post wrong, Hal should still be outside of the range of the AMF. Thus, this should be possible. Note that the switch is instantaneous and does NOT provoke AoOs.))

Posted by: Dark Maiden Wed Sep 26, 2007 1:56 pm
"I'm going to go tend to Viki; she's still in bad shape." Jessica moves back towards the female mage, but can't quite get there. [5 squares west, 1 square South.] Kayla heads north. [Double Move: 60' north]
Merla decides to move away from the door, and pulls out a potion.
[6 squares West, 2 squares south.
Potion of CSW: +21 HP]

Posted by: Knight_019 Wed Sep 26, 2007 2:07 pm
*Mahler wastes no time taking the fight back to the accursed drowned eye. He charges forward, shoulder down, then lands a thunderous uppercut.*. ((Charge, PA 5 1d20 + 21 + 5 + 3 - 5 = 9 + 24 = 33. Damage 6d8 + 10 + 5 + 5 = 24 + 20 = 44.))

Posted by: FreedomJu Wed Sep 26, 2007 7:33 pm
Melissa eyes the two remaining targets in her field of view and quickly picks one to shoot at. ((If I'm reading Improved Precise Shot, I should be able to shoot Fasher with no chance of hitting Johann. If I'm wrong, shoot the Swarm. Gauss Hit: 1d20 + BAB + DEX + Weapon Focus (Gauss Assault Rifle) + Tac Aid + Elation
Attack 1: 1d20 + 10 + 8 + 1 + 1 = 17 + 19 + 1 + 3 + 1 = 41
Attack 2: 1d20 + 5 + 8 + 1 + 1 = 5 + 14 + 1 + 3 + 1 = 24
Gauss Damage: 3d10+3 + Weapon Specialization (Gauss Assault Rifle)
Attack 1: 3d10 + 3 + 2 = 4 + 7 + 4 + 5 = 20
Attack 2: 3d10 + 3 + 2 = 2 + 10 + 3 + 5 = 20
Dodge to.... Swarm I suppose.))
((Laika should be able to charge the DE Graigus attacked.
Attack
Claw: D20(5) + 12(BAB) + 7(STR) + 10(Music) + 2(Charge) = 34
Damage
Claw: D8(6) + D6(2)fire + 6(STR) + 10(Music) = 24))

Posted by: BLT Wed Sep 26, 2007 8:41 pm
((Why did Laika's STR score change between the attack and damage rolls? O_o))

Posted by: Lord Oddeye Wed Sep 26, 2007 9:08 pm
Unseen by most, Enrick strides towards the infamous lich general in a display of bravery and skips forward elegantly at the last moment to deliver a well aimed vigorous thrust at the psionicist's chest, his rapier flashing and crackling with energy upon biting into Fasher's body.
: "Blitz! Live with it!" The dandy spouts tauntingly, backing off swiftly after the attack, his delicate figure visible from all once again.
((Since Johann and co moved out and I managed to trace an unbroken line that doesn't meet any obstacle on the way, charge at Fasher.
Melee : 1d20 +5 (DEX Weapon finesse) +1 (Weapon) +1 (Haste) +2 (Charge) +10 (musix) = 19 threat... I rolled a 13 to confirm that, then remembered he's supposed to be an undead. I assume that's still a hit.
Chance to hit either Johann or Fasher due to grapple situation...
OnlineHost: TheUnknownMarine rolled 1 100-sided die: 94
TheUnknownMarine: Fasher was struck by Enrick.
Damage : 1d6+1 (Weapon) +2d6 (Holy) +8 (CHA) +3 (INT) +10 (musix) = 3+8+21 = 32 damage including 8 holy + anything else that might be beneficial to this attack that I forgot to include.
HP : 97/97
AC : 24 +8
Invisibility wears off due to the attack.))

Posted by: FreedomJu Wed Sep 26, 2007 10:36 pm

QUOTE (BLT @ Wed Sep 26, 2007 3:41 pm)
((Why did Laika's STR score change between the attack and damage rolls? O_o))

OOC: Heck if I know, that's the way they were marked down in the one post, so I just went with it since I'm only controlling him for one battle (as far as I know anyway).

Posted by: Knight_019 Wed Sep 26, 2007 11:03 pm
*Dagron beelines for Fasher in a fit of rage. No one would dare invade his mind. He opens his maw, ready to take Fasher's own head, but in his rage, goes slightly past his mark, turning to reorient himself for his next attack.* ((Dagron flies over Fasher, tries to bite, rolls a nat 1, and misses.))
: To rest with you once more!
*Aurik points accusingly at the drowned eye surrounded by Mahler and Graigus before a beam of intense yellow light flies toward the skeleton. It manages to avoid both Mahler and Graigus, connecting with the enemy. Wasting no time, Aurik moves up toward the conglomeration where Fasher was bound to be.*
((Searing ray
1d20 + 13 + 5 + 1 - 4 = 12 + 15 = 27.
Damage
10d6 = 1 + 5 + 1 + 5 + 5 + 6 + 4 + 3 + 2 + 3 = 35 untyped damage.
Aurik moves 60' up and around the earth elemental, landing down and to the right of where Johann is represented on the map (or down and to the left of the earth elemental if you prefer).))

Posted by: Kaihaku Thu Sep 27, 2007 1:18 am
Maria manages one startled mental Save me to her vulpine companion before she is liquified by the indiscriminate blast of powerful electricity. [Maria is at -53 HP and dead. ] What happens to characters with weaknesses, Billy? Oh Sally, you already know that they get liquified.
Well, yeah, I guess Kaihaku was pretty silly to field Maria then instead of that near invulnerable Slayer build he thought up.
Well, Kaihaku is kind of weird, I think he enjoys playing characters with weaknesses.
That's stupid.
"Good riddance..." Cedric mutters darkly, turning his attention to the downed monk and sighing in relief as he notes that she still breathes...thanks to the aid of the handy Templar, "Thank the Goddess..." He nods to the nearby ninja, "Your timely aid was appreciated." He pauses for a moment, then starts towards the gathering around the overlords of this foul realm, calling out to the bard as he does so, "Faralon, aid Kethra, she is in dire need of healing!"
[Full Move - Top right corner of Varro]
Then, he feels the pull of Ombligo's spell and slows...waiting.
[Cedric is willing, is Hal willing?]
"Oh dear..." Sophie sighs worried, following after her allies, and whispering a prayer softly, sending a wave of healing over her charges.
[M - One Square Behind Alex]
[MCLW: +17HP]
((My MCLW doesn't heal everyone in the north... I guess I'm not cool like them Radiant Servant types, I'm limited to a mere thirty foot radius and one creature per level. But yeah, everyone in a 30ft radius of big, tall, and gruesome...meaning the earth elemental...))

QUOTE
Telanna stops and turns around, giving the dragonman a scathing look -- as if to say oh, grow up -- before moving forward again.

"Now, what man could resist such a come hither gaze?" The dragonman ponders aloud, stepping to the side to avoid the remnants of the stone wall as he begins to dash forward before leaping mightily into the air and soaring forward with a flap of powerful wings.
[5 Foot Step NW]
[Jump: 15 + 10 = 25]
[Spot: 18 + 0 = 18]
His keen eyes take in the battlefield with a gaze, the light hearted grin fading as the bitter struggle around the masters of this den becomes apparent. One was dead already...and the others close enough... The dragonman growled something under his breath, his clawed hands already weaving symbols in the air, mystical power surging into existence around them.
[Land: 1 square south of fox]
Landing mightily, the dragonman unleashes restorative power upon the nearby GDO team with a wave of his clawed hand.
[MCLW: +19HP]
((My MCLW doesn't heal everyone in the north... I guess I'm not cool like them Radiant Servant types, I'm limited to a mere thirty foot radius and one creature per level. But yeah, everyone in a 30ft radius of big, tall, and gruesome...meaning Melissa...))
The dragonman stares at the remains of the psionic operative, helpless torment in his eyes and a slight tremble running through him. ...for a diamond...just...one diamond...
There is another way...
The Doctor hesitates for an instant, his eyes widening with sudden realization...then his hand begins reaching to touch the charred corpse before his mind had caught up.
Dim memories flickered... The maelstrom beyond death...the desolate infinity that circles time...the eternal gray expanse...the innumerable held stagnant there...
...the maelstrom...
Caught in the power of it, drawn onward to damnation or blessing, the souls of the departed...the facade of flesh no more...the beauty of their true nature revealed...
...there.
There is a surge of spiritual power, invisible to the eye but felt tangibly, between the silver dragonman and the remains of the italian psion.
Wisps of brilliant positive energy flare around Maria, her wounds beginning to close before the eye. Her eyelids begin flicker, color returning to her face as she begins to breath once more.
The Doctor stumbles back half a step, his hands hanging loosely at his sides, his eyes glazed and distant.
Kai: I can't decide on a Coventry special.
TUM: OK, for a feat, Coventry can once per day restore someone to full life and status as a free action.
TUM: But they can't be more than an hour or two dead.
Kai: Is there a range? Touch?
TUM: Touch
TUM: Though it's a free action to use, he does lose his next standard action, as the effort dazes him.
Kai: How about 10 minutes dead per Coventry HD?
TUM: that sounds fair. cap of 2 hours.
Kai: k
TUM: Though it's a free action, it's more like Coventry immediately starts jamming life force back in the body and sealing it up through force of will, so he's still kinda doing it even as they get up again.
((Judging from the multiple near death experiences this time around, I think it would be ducky if I could get my special more than once a day. Perhaps once we break that seal? That doesn't seem so broken to me, not considering some of the other specials out there... We could call it plot resurrection if you like and assign it the same role as Max's sphere of light.))

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Thu Sep 27, 2007 1:42 am

QUOTE (Kaihaku @ Wed Sep 26, 2007 8:18 pm)
[Cedric is willing, is Hal willing?]

yase

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Thu Sep 27, 2007 1:54 am
: "Gaaaaah! Maria! You..." Sheila cries, shocked to see her ally fall before the psionic power of the base's defenders. Snarling, she turns to the lich. "You're dead! You hear me, you ****?! DEAD!" : "I've been dead for a very long time, whelp. This is not news to me," Fasher says with a sigh as the bear continues to claw and gnaw at him.
: "Shut up! You're gonna resemble Swiss Cheese when I'm done!" Sheila shouts, swiftly swapping out her EMP ammo for standard rounds. "DIE!" A hail of gunshots slams into the lich, breaking bones, but always angled to not hit the massive bear grappling the undead.
((Switch out 1 ammo clip as a free action (Quick Reload) and another as move action (Hypermode) then Full Attack. Improved Precise Shot, so I only hit Fasher. Hit, Hit, Hit, Hit, Hit. 107 damage after DR to Fasher.))
: "Your struggles are futile... Give in," Fasher says in an oddly tired voice before a maelstrom of psychic energy lashes out from his body, draining the life from all those around Fasher into the lich.
((Schism Action: Hostile Empathic Transfer: Full Augmentation. Enrick, Johann, Dagron, and Hal all make Will saves. Only Enrick fails. Enrick takes 90 damage. The rest take 45 damage. Fasher is healed to full HP.))

Posted by: Kaihaku Thu Sep 27, 2007 1:55 am
The chaotic energies of the gnome interfere with the normally benign transpositioning causing a new being to be born!!! Halric! The barbarian!

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Thu Sep 27, 2007 3:31 am
“Jess, heal Mar... No!! Damn it!!!” Jim shouts as Maria is struck down. However, no sooner than she falls then there is Coventry, dragging her back to life. Jim is silent for a moment as he takes in the sight of a miracle, then shakes back to normal and points to the Swarm.
“The telekinetic bubble around that summoner creature is down... Open fire, try to take it down before it can reinforce this place!” Jim shouts, firing a trio of bursts at the creature. Two go wide, the creature able to dodge with uncanny, otherworldly grace. However, the last shot hits, smashing a large number of the bugs that make up the creature's body. At the same time, a number of the creatures seem to shrivel up and die of their own accord.
((Jim fires 3 bursts at the Swarm. Miss, Miss, Nat 20. 58 damage to the creature. The Swarm takes 45 damage from Hostile Empathic Transfer since it doesn't differentiate friend from foe.))
Gilliam turns to the buzzing conglomeration of flies, wasps, bees, maggots, centipedes and other such insects that was once a friend of his.
: “Orin... You must be stopped. I'm sorry...”Gilliam says, quietly. His chest panels begin to open up as light begins to swirl around the brightening laser cannon. “You deserve rest after all you've been through... and perhaps I should be the one to give it to you.”
: “Such sentimentality in the midst of a battle? You've changed, Colonel Thornton. But then, I supposed walking the lands for a thousand years in a metal shell amidst the ruins of all you knew and loved would do that to anyone,” the Swarm says in its odd, buzzing voice. “Go on then, if you think you can. Destroy me. It's only right. I am your enemy, and this is a battle.”
Gilliam's chest laser discharges with a loud fwoosh, the wide beam of destructive energy striking the abominable arcanist where his chest would be. Insects hiss and pop as they drop from the Worm That Walk's form and writhe on the ground, while others are burned away in a second. When the beam fades, the Swarm still stands, though his form is smaller, diminished. A roiling laugh echoes unnaturally from the creature's “mouth”.
: “Did... did you really think that would be enough? Hahahaha... My... My friend, you are much closer, but you've still got some way to go before you and yours can defeat me. And...” A group of centipedes conglomerate to form a smile on the creature's mouth. “I've studied the way you and the others fight this entire battle... Since the moment you walked in. I'm not like the others. I now know full well the threat all of you pose, and I'm aware of my own abilities as well. You won't catch me unprepared when the time comes for us to clash again.”
: “It won't matter, Orin. No one here is about to let you repeat the mistakes of a thousand years ago... No matter the cost, we will defeat you!” Gilliam shouts, suddenly angry.
: “No matter the cost? Hahaha... My old friend, isn't 'no matter the cost' exactly what caused the mistakes of a thousand years ago to begin with? Perhaps I was wrong... You don't seem to have changed as much as I thought. Be that as it may, this battle nears its end ...and I see that my last servants have fallen”
The Earth Elemental gives a great moan, then collapses under attack after attack being directed its way. The last of the Drowned Eye finally fall to the attacks of Aurik, Mahler, and Faralon. Sounding almost shocked, the skeleton falls, shouting.
“No!!! We... We cannot... fail... What... What will become of our world?!” the Ancient undead says, his shout dying to a whisper by the end. The light dies from his eyesockets and he grows still.
: “Only two of you left now... Just give up, Orin. You know you can't win, and you're fighting for a cause that you would have never supported when you were alive! Fight whatever control they have over you, not us!” Gilliam roars. He continues, a tinge of sorrow in his words. “We're the last of our kind... We're all that's left... Don't let them stain our world by using you! Don't let them undo our sacrifice!! Break free!”
: “My, my, Gilliam... If only such a thing were possible. I apologize, dear Gilliam. Victory is yours, but I must be off. Regrettably, my part to play in this tragedy is not over,” the Swarm says, the insects that make up his body beginning to roil wildly, distorting his humanoid form.
:
“Wait! Swarm! What are you doing?! You can't leave me here alone! Use your magic! Turn the tide of the battle! Help me!!!” Fasher shouts, at once shocked and outraged as he realizes the Swarm's intentions.
: “You are not the same man that I and the others literally followed into the mouth of Hell. And I am not one of those delusional reanimated corpses that make up the bulk of our once proud unit. Goodbye, General Fasher. I'll see you on the other side some day. I hope then perhaps you'll see what I was trying to do here...”
With that, the Worm that Walks' form collapses into a piles of slithering and crawling insects and a cloud of buzzing flies and wasps. The robes that covered him, the staff he bore, and many other magical trinkets fall to the ground amongst this pile. The bugs swiftly disperse, most crawling through a series of air vents in the wall behind them, leaving a small pile of magical items.
: “Orin!! Damn... Damn it all!!!” Gilliam shouts.
: “Swarm! Swarm!!! Damn you!!!” Fasher shouts as his only other ally leaves the battlefield. He laughs a little, then growls in rage. “Well then, you've already won... But I won't make this easy! It doesn't matter who comes to collect, be they devil or man, the price for killing Gregory Fasher is still a high one!”
((Gilliam fires his laser! Nat 20! The Swarm takes 57 damage. As a free action, the Swarm discorporates, and for a full move he crawls into the air vents behind him. A pile of loot is left behind.))

Posted by: Rusty Thu Sep 27, 2007 3:44 am
: "That one just...Forget about that one! Johann, either drop that spell or get out of the way. With their spellcaster gone, we won't need it! Everyone, he may be the last foe, but that doesn't mean you should take him lightly. Be on your guard, and stay focused!"

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Thu Sep 27, 2007 4:17 am
Cedric drops to his knees, tears of realization in his eyes. "How could I have been so foolish? Violence isn't the answer..." He leaps to his feet jubilantly. "Hugs for everyone!!!" or... Cedric tenses, preparing to launch a flurry of hammer blows upon the verminous Swarm. Then it discorporates before his very eyes. "What manner of vile magic..." Undaunted, he turns his head to see Johann holding Fasher in a bear hug. He surges forward, bringing the head of his hammer around swiftly into the lich's torso, and he hears a satisfying crunch. Still, as his weapon enters the antimagic field, he feels some of its force sapped.
((Swarm discorp'd before Cedric could smash him to tiny buggy bits. So move next to Fasher and attack once.
To-hit - nat 20
Damage: 32, drastically reduced because of the AMF))

Posted by: Arcdragnbreth Thu Sep 27, 2007 6:49 am
The Woren expends some of his divine energy to amplify healing effects, then heads as close to Fasher as he dares. ((Pantherath expends a turn attempt to activate Sacred Boost, then moves to the square SE of Hal's position on the map (where he was as of the end of Vox's post, not where he ended up after the teleport.) On the defensive.))
<}--{Pantherath }--{>
HP: 119/119
AC: 28 (17 touch, 21 flat), +1 dodge to Ravager
Smite Evil: 1/1
Turn Undead: 8/8
Turn Water/Bolster Fire: 4/8
Spells: 5/6 [L0], 8/8 [L1], 4/7 [L2], 4/7 [L3], 2/7 [L4], 1/7 [L5], 3/4 [L6]
(}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{)
"Hey, Supercat... you should really listen to me, you know," Ashathel commented, taking up position just to the right of the Templar. Force Blade in hand, he went on the defensive, should he or the ally grappling move and the undead psion be free from the anti-magic field's effects.
((Move to the square directly east of Pantherath, on the defensive.))
<}----{ Ashathel }----{>
(O) 57/135 HP
(O) AC 36 (31 touch, 25 flat), +1 dodge to Ravager
(O) Song of Celerity: 0/1
(O) Blur (20% miss chance)
<== Spells ==>
Lv 0: Detect Magic [2]
Lv 1: Magic Missile [3], Enlarge Person, L. Orb of Sound [4]
Lv 2: Cat's Grace, Fox's Cunning, Blast of Force
Lv 3: Bolt 1 [2]
Lv 4: Ray of Deanimation
(}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{)
With all but one target neutralized, the monk headed straight for Fasher, staff in hand. He headed as close as he could get to the general, waiting for the antimagic field to drop so he could unleash a full barrage.
((Move to the spot two squares east of Fasher. On the defensive.))
<}----{ Graigus }----{>
(O) 97/124 HP
(O) AC 31 (touch 28, flat 27)
(O) Stunning Fist: 7/8
(O) Hybrid Form: 2/2
(}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{)
[color=brown]Licking his fangs hungrily, the lionine form of the barbarian moved up and some distance west of the newcomers, giving him room to run and jump over them should the field drop and expose Fasher.
((Move to the spot four squares west of Okori.))
<}----{ Gabriel }----{>
(O) 226/242 HP (186/186 HP base)
(O) AC 30 (22 touch, 23 flat)
(O) Rage: 0/2
(O) Primeval Form: 1/3

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Thu Sep 27, 2007 7:20 am
: "Your tactical formation won't survive this battlefield!" Fasher sneers as he looks at the warriors gathering around him. A deep grumble echoes within the minds of Dagron, Johann, Enrick, Graigus, Cedric, and Ashathel. The grumble grows louder for a few moments, then suddenly erupts into a terrible shriek that scrambles your senses and pounds your head. The psychic shriek echoes across the battlefield, though it only affects those close to the fallen General.
((Ultrablast, full augmentation. Everyone within 15' of General Fasher takes 87 damage, a Will save DC 26 for half.))
: "You there, gunslinger! Can you back your words or are you just a paper tigress?" Fasher challenges as he stares at Sheila. Sheila screams and claps her hands over her ears, blood flowing from her nose and sides of her mouth. After a few moments, Sheila seems to recover.
((Quickened Psychic Crush on Sheila. Save passed. Sheila doesn't outright die, and takes 27 points of damage instead.))
: "Kyaaaaaaa!!! Aaaaaah... That... That's not enough! You hear me! Not enough to take me down!" Sheila challenges back, spitting out a mouthful of blood.
Next turn!
http://www.shinola.radh.com/guest/Rusty/megiddocommanda08.PNG
Not even Johann's tremendous rage can keep him going against the awful power of Fasher's psychic scream. The bear form withers away, back to a little gnome, curled in the fetal position, blood draining from his ears and mouth. Fasher easily floats down from where he was grappled, calmly and cooly moving away from the body of the brave gnome.
((In retrospect... the AMF should've winked out his wildshaping too. Ah well. At least you took down all of the Swarm's defenses, making him far, far easier to drive off. : / ))
: "Aw man, the little guy too?! Move out of the way! Argh! Stupid paladins!" Sheila groans at Cedric as she rolls over to get a clear shot. Firing with both hands from the prone position, she winces. "Firing like this is REALLY uncomfortable!"
Sheila fires a quintet of shots, but only a quartet hit, the rest striking a shimmering illusion of the General that seems to wrap itself around him.
: "Medics, go to work! Jess, what the hell are you doing, we need emergency treatment up here stat! Viki's unconscious but she's stable, we've got seriously wounded up here!" Jim shouts as he fires again and again and again at the floating psion. One of his bursts goes wide, but the other slams into the psychic lich, causing him to growl with irritation.
((A number of hits and some misses: Fasher takes a total of 130 damage or so from my guys.))

Posted by: Kaihaku Thu Sep 27, 2007 8:16 am
"Wha...what happened?" Maria mumbles as she sits up weakly, then pauses staring at the carnage being unleashed before her in horror, "Oh...damnit..." She glances around, looking for someone familar, then notes Sheila on the floor nearby, "Who...who put up an AMF? Of course...the worm that walks..." She shakes her head in frustration, "That cunning devil..."
"Wasn't the Worm, Worm got wasted when the field went off, gnomy guy did it, I think," Sheila huffs as she rolls onto her back, "I hate, hate, hate, hate firing when prone."
"The...gnome? Why would..." The psion shakes her head for a moment, then frowns looking towards the battle, eyes locked on the slain gnome, "...they can't last like this...they have no defenses, he'll slaughter them..." She takes in a deep breath, closing her eyes then exhales, psionic power outlines the gnome corspe who then vanishes only to reappear beside Maria.
"...poor guy." Maria shakes her head sadly at the sight of the battered body, then nods to Sheila, "Good luck." She...and the gnome then vanish, reappearing in an isolated corner of the command center.
[Retrieve: 11PP]
[Psionic Dimensional Doorway: 7 PP Augment: 6PP]

QUOTE
"Aw man, the little guy too?! Move out of the way! Argh! Stupid paladins!" Sheila groans at Cedric as she rolls over to get a clear shot.

Cedric complies, falling to the ground in a heap …AS HIS BRAIN EXPLODES FROM THE MENTAL SHRIEK!!!
[Cedric is at -38 and Dead]
((Coventry would Close Wounds to attempt a save...but...you can't prevent damage done in an antimagic field.))

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Thu Sep 27, 2007 8:50 am
: "Waaaah! I take it back, I take it back, move or live or something!" Sheila yells as the paladin dies in front of her.

Posted by: Arcdragnbreth Thu Sep 27, 2007 9:19 am
Nodding as Maria removes the fallen gnome, Pantherath releases a powerful burst of healing, damaging Fasher at the same time. ((Mass CLW, maximized via Sacred Boost. Targeted to get as many allies as possible. Mass Cure Light Wounds: 1d8 +15 (spell) +10 (aug. heal.) = 33 HP restored, 33 dealt to Fasher (Will save 19 for half).))
<}--{Pantherath }--{>
HP: 119/119
AC: 28 (17 touch, 21 flat), +1 dodge to Ravager
Smite Evil: 1/1
Turn Undead: 8/8
Turn Water/Bolster Fire: 4/8
Spells: 5/6 [L0], 8/8 [L1], 4/7 [L2], 4/7 [L3], 2/7 [L4], 0/7 [L5], 3/4 [L6]
(}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{)
"And the elf with the assist," Ashathel said, slipping to Fasher's side. Imbuing it with magical energy, he eagerly brought it down upon the undead psion.
((Arcane Strike used; Ray of Deanimation dropped for it.
Atk1: 1d20 +14 (bab) +10 (wpn) +4 (dex) +3 (greaves) +10 (bardic) +1 (haste) -5 (c. exp.) +8 (arc. strike) = 51
Dmg: 7d6 (wpn) +2d6 (holy) +4d4 (arc. strike) +2 (str) +3 (greaves) +10 (bardic) = 52))
<}----{ Ashathel }----{>
(O) 47/135 HP
(O) AC 36 (31 touch, 25 flat), +1 dodge to Ravager
(O) Song of Celerity: 0/1
(O) Blur (20% miss chance)
<== Spells ==>
Lv 0: Detect Magic [2]
Lv 1: Magic Missile [3], Enlarge Person, L. Orb of Sound [4]
Lv 2: Cat's Grace, Fox's Cunning, Blast of Force
Lv 3: Bolt 1 [2]
Lv 4: ---
(}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{)
((Gabe should technically have been another 15' west.))
Ready for action, the barbarian easily leapt over his allies, landing directly in front of his quarry. Without hesitation, he tore into Fasher with all he had.
((Jump: 1d20 +9 (ranks) +2 (syn) +18 (str) +20 (spd) = 51. Leap attack successful; 2x PA damage
Claw1: 1d20 +15 (bab) +18 (str) +3 (jim) +2 (charge) -14 (pa) +5 (bardic) +1 (haste) +2 (charge) = 52
Dmg: 2d6 +18 (str) +28 (pa) +10 (bardic) = 64
Claw1: 1d20 +15 (bab) +18 (str) +3 (jim) +2 (charge) -14 (pa) +5 (bardic) +1 (haste) +2 (charge) = 40
Dmg: 2d6 +18 (str) +28 (pa) +10 (bardic) = 62
Claw1: 1d20 +15 (bab) +18 (str) +3 (jim) +2 (charge) -14 (pa) +5 (bardic) +1 (haste) +2 (charge) = 50
Dmg: 2d6 +18 (str) +28 (pa) +10 (bardic) = 62
Bite: 1d20 +10 (bab) +9 (str) +3 (jim) -14 (pa) +5 (bardic) +1 (haste) +2 (charge) = 30
Dmg: 2d6 +9 (str) +28 (pa) +10 (bardic) = 51
Rake1: 1d20 +10 (bab) +9 (str) +3 (jim) -14 (pa) +5 (bardic) +1 (haste) +2 (charge) = 37
Dmg: 2d6 +9 (str) +28 (pa) +10 (bardic) = 52
Rake2: 1d20 +10 (bab) +9 (str) +3 (jim) -14 (pa) +5 (bardic) +1 (haste) = 41
Dmg: 2d6 +9 (str) +28 (pa) +10 (bardic) = 53))
<}----{ Gabriel }----{>
(O) 242/242 HP (186/186 HP base)
(O) AC 30 (22 touch, 23 flat)
(O) Rage: 0/2
(O) Primeval Form: 1/3
(}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{^}~~~~{)
Stepping over eagerly, the monk layed into Fasher with all he had, assisted by the massive lion flanking the undead general.
((5' step west, then full attack.
Atk: 1d20 +8 (bab) +3 (str) +1 (wpn) +1 (w. foc) +1 (haste) +10 (bardic) -2 (twf) +2 (flank) = 39
Dmg: 3d6 +1 (wpn) +2d6 (holy) +4 (str) +10 (bardic) = 42
Atk: 1d20 +8 (bab) +3 (str) +1 (wpn) +1 (w. foc) +1 (haste) +10 (bardic) -2 (twf) +2 (flank) = 37
Dmg: 3d6 +1 (wpn) +2d6 (holy) +4 (str) +10 (bardic) = 35
Atk: 1d20 +8 (bab) +3 (str) +1 (wpn) +1 (w. foc) +1 (haste) +10 (bardic) -2 (twf) +2 (flank) = 36
Dmg: 3d6 +1 (wpn) +2d6 (holy) +4 (str) +10 (bardic) = 32
Atk: 1d20 +3 (bab) +3 (str) +1 (wpn) +1 (w. foc) +1 (haste) +10 (bardic) -2 (twf) +2 (flank) = 24
Dmg: 3d6 +1 (wpn) +2d6 (holy) +4 (str) +10 (bardic) = 30
Atk: 1d20 +8 (bab) +3 (str) +1 (wpn) +1 (w. foc) +1 (haste) +10 (bardic) -2 (twf) +2 (flank) = 30
Dmg: 3d6 +1 (wpn) +2d6 (holy) +1 (str) +10 (bardic) = 22
Atk: 1d20 +8 (bab) +3 (str) +1 (wpn) +1 (w. foc) +1 (haste) +10 (bardic) -5 (twf) +2 (flank) = 23
Dmg: 3d6 +1 (wpn) +2d6 (holy) +1 (str) +10 (bardic) = 21))
<}----{ Graigus }----{>
(O) 43/124 HP
(O) AC 31 (touch 28, flat 27)
(O) Stunning Fist: 7/8
(O) Hybrid Form: 2/2

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Thu Sep 27, 2007 9:40 am
Gabriel's furious slashes and claws rend nought but air as an illusion around Fasher distracts him. The General steps back as the animalized warrior continues to tear at the air, but then turns to find others waiting. The Death of the General: http://gh.ffshrine.org/song/1035/32
Ashathel and Graigus leap at the psion, slashing, bashing, and breaking his bones in a mercilessly onslaught. With a final thrust of his blade, Ashathel seperates the legs of the General from the rest of him. Fasher falls to the ground, psionic power crackling around him for a moment, then fading.
: "How... How could this have happened?" he gasps as he tries to drag his upper body away from the heroes, stopping against the wall. "This... This should not have been..."
Fasher collapses inches from the wall, head staring up at the ceiling.
: "We... We just wanted to grow..." Fasher says with a wheeze. "And learn... We wanted to discover everything about the world we lived in... That's why... Our seal was the Eye... The eye that always looked to the future and the hope and knowledge within...” Fasher coughs. "It... It makes no sense... Even with our power and knowledge... Our civilization perished on the threshold of bringing the next step in advancement to the world..." The glow from behind Fasher's lenses begins to dull. "We... Never meant... For any of this..." he whispers.
As his power fades from him, Fasher suddenly looks around, as if awakening from a dream. With horror in his voice, he utters four simple words.
“What have I done?”
Then his head falls and he is still.
Victory!!!
XP totals:
Battle:
4300 for the level 15s, 7500 for the level 13s, 5900 for the level 14s.
Story award: +1000 XP.
Treasure and RP XP being tabulated.
Deadline XP (totalled by Cyrus):
Zook – 300
Telanna – 200
Laeralas – 150
Tanis - 200
Cedric – 200
Laika – 200
Farain – 150
Faralon – 200
Kayla – 150
Kethra – 150
Maria – 150
Okori – 100
Mahler – 200
Ombligo - 250
Varro – 100
Aurik – 250
Melissa – 100
Coventry – 150
Ashathel – 150
Gabriel – 150
Graigus - 150
Pantherath – 100
Alexander – 100
Hal – 100
Merla – 100
Dagron – 100
Enrick – 100
Caius – 100
Sophie – 100
Gorrik – 50
Kria – 100

Posted by: Lord Oddeye Thu Sep 27, 2007 12:13 pm

QUOTE
((Schism Action: Hostile Empathic Transfer: Full Augmentation. Enrick, Johann, Dagron, and Hal all make Will saves. Only Enrick fails. Enrick takes 90 damage. [...] ))

((Foil the dire plans of AIM, master of evil.
Better Lucky than Good: Expend one luck point to treat the natural 1 rolled as a natural 20 instead. (swift action)
Enrick passes and takes 45 damage.
Enrick is at 42/97 HP after Pantherath's healing))
After the battle ends and the general is back to be but a shadow of a forgotten past, Enrick, still panting from the assaults he endured earlier but still standing thanks to very fortunate circumstances, sheathes his lightblade wearily which is not too bloodied due to their group's late arrival and the former opponents being creatures of metal and bones for the most part. He breathes deeply and gazes over at the still corpse of the psion who was eventually put to his final rest thanks to their strong perseverance, though to an extensive cost...
Though his excessively good humor had left him the second he was struck by Fasher's psionics, a faint smile remains, reflect of an unshaken will.
"Ehh... I can't leave just yet and plunge all my admirers into dire grief now can I?" He says to the remains of the lich, clenching his fist. His voice remains unbroken and he speaks with aplomb in spite of feeling battered and most wearied, "I won't fall... even to these strange powers of yours, you'll have to beat my skills and outwit me first. Not that any of this is possible for you right n- Oooh... the pain!" He snivels, rubbing his skull that still hurts him from the inside, "I wouldn't be against some rest about now..."
However something suddenly catches his eye and, as a consequence, his interests. The adventurer walks to the spot from which The Swarm escaped and fumbles through the pile of items the spellcaster left behind before anyone touch it.
((Search and pick up stuff of interest (I'll wait for a list). Also...))
http://beaugran.club.fr/cd/premium/Jingle%207.mp3
Enrick is now level 15!
Swashbuckler 3/ Sorcerer 6/ Dashing Swordsman 6
+9 HP!
+1 BAB! (+12/+7/+2)
+1 FORT!
+1 REF!
+1 WILL!
Learned a new Quip : "Just Quit!"!
+1 Bluff!
+3 Jump!
+1 Tumble!
Learned a new Skill Trick : Back on Your Feet!
Learned a new Feat : Practised Spellcaster!

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Thu Sep 27, 2007 1:38 pm
With a groan of pain, Hal bends down and grabs onto Cedric's shoulders, attempting to drag him away from Johann. "Help me get him out of the field," he wheezes. "We can't do anything for him there." ((Hal gains a level in Radiant Servant of the Light))
Telanna rushes forward to help Hal, her weak girl arms not providing much assistance.
: "Is there something you can do for him?!" she asks frantically. "Wait, wait...the staff! He's got a staff of life! I saw him use it on Gabriel outside!
((Telanna gains a level in Druid))
The severed head of Varro suddenly comes alive, beeping rapidly in sequence. Then it shuts down, and falls silent again.
((Varro gains a level in Dreadnought))
"Cedric?" Zook mumbles, squinting as the Paladin falls. He can't quite make out what happens, and begins to move forward for a better look. I'm sure he's alright. He's practically invincible. Cedric's alright. Cedric's fine.
((Zook gains a level in diddly-squat))
The people who had been there at the beginning of the battle start to feel that sense of protection fade, though the feeling of contentment and love still lingers. Green sparks start to rise slowly from their bodies, congregating at the ceiling of the room over Sorel's body. They begin to swirl around, forming an unbroken orb of light. It hangs there, for a moment, seeming to look upon the force.
((Sorel also doesn't gain a level))

Posted by: Dark Maiden Thu Sep 27, 2007 3:01 pm
"Maria?! Damn it!" Jessica feels momentarily overwhelmed with anger and sadness, not only because of the enemy, but her own failure as well. The Psion breathes a sigh of relief as Maria's wounds heal, and she starts breathing again. Almost quicker than she can comprehend, the battle is one. Jessica makes her way over to Hal and Telanna and looks down at Cedric.
"A staff of life...?" The medic says, obviously puzzled. "If it will help them, I suppose you should use it..."
Jessica walks over to the unconscious form of the half elven monk, Kethra. She kneels down and takes her arm, putting her fingers to the monk's wrist.
"Thank goodness, she still lives..."
The medic takes out her kit and treats her wounds.
Kethra stirs and slowly opens her eyes and looks up at the medic. After a few moments, she sits up. "I assume you are the one that patched me up? Thank you for the assistance. I thought I was a goner..."
"It's no problem; I was just doing my job. Now if you'll excuse me, I must tend to the others' wounds."
Jessica walks away to tend to the others.
[Who else needs teh healing? ]
Kethra sits cross-legged and closes her eyes. The rest of her wounds begin to close.
[Wholeness of Body and 2 uses of the kit bring her up to full.]
Time for LEVEL-UPS!
Jessica gains a level in Psion! (Egoist Psion 15; ECL 15)
* Max HP +8
* Fortitude save +1
* Reflex save +1
* Max PP +25
* Autohypnosis +1
* Concentration +1
* Heal +2
* Knowledge (Geography) +1
* Knowledge (Psionics) +1
* Psicraft +1
* Gains the feats Ghost Attack and Unconditional Power (+2 HP from each feat, because of the Psionic Body feat)
* Learns the power Ego Whip
Merla gains a level in Initiate of the Sevenfold Veil! (Wizard 10/initiate of the Sevenfold Veil 5; ECL 15)
* Max HP +7
* BAB +1
* Concentration +1
* Decipher Script +1
* Knowledge (Arcana) +1
* Knowledge (Nature) +1
* Knowledge (Religion) +1
* Knowledge (The Planes) +1
* Spellcraft +1
* Warding 3/day
* Blue Veil gained
* Learns the spells Greater Scrying and Prismatic Wall
* SPD 5th level +1
* SPD 8th level 2]

Posted by: Knight_019 Thu Sep 27, 2007 4:16 pm
((Dagron becomes level 15! HP increase by 18! STR increases by 2! INT increases by 2! BAB increases by 1!
FORT increases by 1!
REF increases by 1!
WILL increases by 1!
Diplomacy increases by 1!
Intimidate increases by 1!
Knowledge (Ancients) increases by 1!
Knowledge (Planes) increases by 1!
Knowledge (Religion increases by 1!
Listen increases by 1!
Search increases by 3!
Sense Motive increases by 1!
Spot increases by 1!
Use Magic Device increases by 1!
Fire Breathing increases to 4d10!
Natural Armor increases by 1!
))

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Thu Sep 27, 2007 4:42 pm
"Light forgive me..." Hal mumbles as he begins to rifle through Cedric's things in search of the Staff of Life. He finds it, and holds it in his hands. He murmurs a word of birth, and a beam of white light lances from the end of the staff to Cedric's chest, restoring his soul to his body. Hal leans down to help him up, and whispers something in his ear.
((Use Staff of Life to cast Resurrection on Cedric))
The orb of light descends, settling into Sorel's unconscious form and fading away. Slowly, he stirs. Sorel reaches out for his staff, and with great difficulty pulls himself to his feet, beginning to walk towards the others. He looks pale and weak, far more sickly and aged than anyone has ever seen him. A hand rests on his abdomen, as if he felt some pain there.
: "Cedric..." he says softly, moving to stand near the body, shoulder to shoulder with the silver dragonman who had revived Maria.
Telanna looks hopefully on while Hal revives Cedric, while making a concerted effort not to look in Sorel's direction as he approaches.
Zook blanches when he gets close enough to see that Cedric has died. Bile rises at the back of his throat, and he feels like he is about to be sick. He closes his eyes and takes several deep breaths, and when he opens them he sees that Cedric has been resurrected. He sighs with relief and exhaustion.
"Whew..." He raises a hand to wipe sweat from his forehead. "It's...it's been a long day."

Posted by: Dark Maiden Thu Sep 27, 2007 5:25 pm
{In Halfling} "Good golly, what a mess." Merla turns her gaze to the unconscious forms of Gorrik and Langston. The wizardess frowns. "I wonder...what we are going to do about those two." Kayla moves around the pit and makes her way over to where a majority of the people are gathered. She remains silent for the time being.
Kayla gains a level in Assassin! (Rogue 5/Assassin 8; ECL 14)
* Max HP +8
* BAB +1
* Reflex save +1
* Bluff +1
* Disable Device +1
* Hide +1
* Move Silently +1
* Open Lock +1
* Search +1
* Tumble +1
* +4 bonus on saves against poison
* Gains class ability Hide In Plain Sight
* Learns spells False Life and Clairaudience/Clairvoyance
* SPD 3rd level +1
* SPD 4th level 1

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Thu Sep 27, 2007 5:34 pm
((Hey, Halfling is one of the eight languages Zook knows! )) Zook looks around for the voice who spoke in Halfling, and he sees Merla, surprised to see another of the little people. "You can say that again," he replies in Halfling.

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Thu Sep 27, 2007 6:29 pm
Items found on Fasher: Carbonweave jacket (+4 AC) Boots of Teleportation Ring of Protection +5 Ring of Resistance+5
Powerstone: Death Urge (Augmented with +8 DC, duration 4 rounds.)
Powerstone: Psionic True Seeing
Powerstone: Psionic Disintegrate (Augmented: Failed save takes 27d6 damage.)
Items found in the Shade's pile of protoplasm:
Ring of Spell Storing.
Items dropped by the Swarm:
4 potions of cure serious wounds, 1 alter self, 2 haste,. Amulet of natural armor +2, Bracers of armor +8, Ring of protection +3, +4 Staff, Rod of absorption, Gloves of Dexterity +4, Headband of intellect +6, Pink ioun stone, Wings of flying.
Salvaged Chainguns: 12.
------
Jim looks around the battlefield, and takes a deep breath. For a moment he pauses, one hand to his ear as his headset crackles to life and Sgt. Hale speaks to him. Jim nods and turns to face the rest of the Rangers.
Ranger's Theme: http://gh.ffshrine.org/song/638/23
: "We have won... But the cost was high. Hundreds dead... Yet more wounded," Jim shakes his head. "Adam's on his way here to deal with Varro. The last of the cyberized civilians are in a stable state now, Sgt. Hale is moving them all to the medical level. What few medics the Black Ops have left will do what they can. Hopefully they'll be able to leave this accursed place soon enough."
: "What now, Jimmy?" Sheila asks, reloading her pistols and getting up.
: "Black Ops are securing the rest of the base... They'll be holding up here for a while. Their numbers should be just enough to make sure no one else tries to launch anything from here, but I don't think we can count on their support for anything else. They're too badly damaged..." Jim peels off his gas mask and lets it hang loose around his neck. Wiping the sweat from his brow with one hand, he looks at his assembled squad. "We've still got a mission to do. We need to figure out what's going on here and from the looks of it, taking down these 'Strife Lords' seems to be on the agenda as well. Get yourselves healed up, Jess, get to work. Adam will be here soon to repair Varro... I suppose I'd better find out who the other groups here are."

Posted by: Aldur Thu Sep 27, 2007 6:41 pm
"Villetta," Jim says, peeling off his gas mask and looking around the battlefield. "This is their commander center... That damnable AI's core is probably around here somewhere. Find a systems jack, locate the core, hack into and destroy it."
Viletta nodded, moving towards the control panel for the base, sighing to herself. It was just such a waste of potential. She opened her terminal, and jacked into the system, face stern.
"Wha-wha-what are you doing, hacker?" the voice of the AI asks. The AI is imperious as always... but now a hint of feat is in her voice.
"I'm afraid that attempting to fix you would take far too long...farewell." Viletta smiled wistfully in response, fingers tapping at keys, eyes concentrating on the task at hand.
Villetta is able to find the AI's core. It is located within the massive computerized wall that takes up the north part of the room. There is a command to expose the core, which would allow Villeta direct access.
"I... Don't under-under-understand..." the AI mutters. "You are in-in-insects... This was not supposed to hap-hap-happen... You should've die-die-died at the peeeeerfect metal hands of my servants..."
"I guess you just are faulty then?" Viletta smiled to herself at this, finding the idea rather odd, and somewhat pitiful.
With a pneumatic hiss, machines begin to open up in the computerized wall... Then they begin to close down again as a countercommand is given.
"No!!! I am not faulty..." the AI shrieks. "I am perfection! I cannot be denied! I am immortal!"
Viletta sighs, shaking her head. "Now don't be willful. This is just how things go. My tech is better than you...it's just how things are."
Viletta then nods to herself as she tries once more to expose the core of the AI, attempting a different method, one that seemed to make it much easier than before. "You know...It's sad really. You could have really helped people...but I guess them's the breaks."
"No!! Noth-noth-nothing is better than I aaaaaaam... Nothing! I can... I'll..." the AI sputters as Viletta severs her from the command loop. "Shuuuuut down that fire-fire-firewall this instant!"
Viletta continues her work, her smile vanishing as her face turns impassive, her fingers tapping at keys on her terminal, the hacker reaching the finale.
With a hissing sound, a large cylinder, glittering with electronic lights and soft, blue glowing lines ejects itself partially from the wall. It is large, easily the size of an ogre, and a single access port is open in the side.
"Nooo! You-you-you-you cannot!" the AI screams. "Those peasants were just just just experiiiiimeeeents... I can-can-can give you implants thaaaaat would make you a goddess! I could install mach-mach-machines that would make you invincible!" the AI begs.
"Perfection does not whine!" Viletta snapped at the AI, and then sighed. "Of course, neither does it get beaten by pathetic creatures of flesh and bone?" Viletta stood, moving over to the access port, linking with the Core of Megiddo. "Any last words?"
"No... This cancancannot be... I am immortal... I am immortaaaaal!"
Viletta sighed as she shut down the AI, ending the final threat of Megiddo forever. "No...you were merely...obselete." Viletta smiles and turns to Jim. "Mission Accomplished."
Jim nods, smiling tiredly. "Good job."

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Thu Sep 27, 2007 8:23 pm
Zook gapes at the exposure of Megiddo's computer core, and at the hacker responsible. After she finishes, he goes up to her, eyes fixed on the device in her hands. "Pardon me, is that a portable computer?" Viletta nodded, looking down at the crazy little man thing in front of her.
: "Yes it is. A Sensor and Democomp, primarily used for the setting and of removing explosives and I've kitted it out to help with hacking. I'm Viletta, And I specialise in destroying mechanical things." She blinked, thinking about it for a moment. "Well, I can make them as well but it's not as much fun. And I have some knowledge of Chemical weapons as well I suppose."
Zook's face lights up, and he quite forgets his exhaustion. "That is amazing! The Ancients used silicates to build their microcircuits, and it's been hard to reproduce them with the way the catacylsm resettled the loose sediment they were made of. There's actually been some really good headway made in that regard by--anyway! Bomb dismantling, you say? Does it have an electronic lockpick function? There are some armory rooms I'd like to visit before we have to go, and I'm worried there might not be time after the people in charge do that thing where they get together and talk and talk and talk... they just babble on and it gets hard to listen to them you know?"
: "I know the feeling. And I could unlock any of the rooms with it I guess. As long as they have a jack, or maybe we could do it from here. And it's interesting the composition of the world hinders your technological advancement. I wonder if it's possible to find a different way of doing it from those you people call 'The Ancients'? It's always better to go your own way I think. Why don't we go now? All the defenses should be down thanks to the AI being permanently shut down." Viletta grinned like a schoolgirl, shouldering her Bazooka as she gathered up her gear, ready to head out.
"That sounds like a fantastic idea," Zook says, having completely forgotten any prior obligations at the thought of exploring Megiddo without the risk of gruesome death. He shoulders his rifle, which is almost as large compared to Zook as Viletta's bazooka is to her. "I'm Zook, by the way. Shall we?"
: "Nice to meet you. Lead on, incidentally what are you? I never really paid that much attention to biological races." She looks down at him eagerly, eyes sparkling at the thought of what this quaint little facility had to offer them.
"What am I? I'm an engineer, specialization in aeronautics and robotics. Although lately I've taken an interest in communication technology, like radio and whatnot...wait, biological? Oh! I'm a gnome." Zook giggles, a high-pitched, grating sound.
: "Ah, very well. Lots of random looking people about the facility." Viletta listen and nodded. "I'm mostly industrial espionage I'm afraid, I never get to keep half the things I find, due to being ordered to destroy, or tamper, or fiddle with them in a bad way."
"That's terrible! I couldn't imagine having to destroy all the things I find. A few weeks ago I found a Gauss Buster, a big magnetic energy cannon, that my team and I have been trying to repair. It's slow going, but we're close. But having to scrap it..." Zook shudders.
: "I can imagine, but considering I just have to ask for such and I get them...Ahehe. I personally like my little one here." Viletta patted her grenade launcher. "It's silenced as well, so they never can tell where their impending doom is coming from..."
Zook stares at the weapon. "A silenced grenade launcher? How the hell d'you pull that off? That's like building a flamethrower that doesn't heat up. Although, judging by that rocket sword, you lot are way ahead of us technologically. Where are you from, anyway? I saw that ship you crashed into the front door, looked a little like the Shadowblade."
: "Well since I have a cloaking device, I'd be found pretty quick if they heard the rather loud noise of a launcher being fired. It's more for my safety. I'm into blowing people up without being sliced up. And I'm from somewhere. It's close to nowhere but not quite anywhere."
"Well, it's not like I'd know what you were talking about if you mentioned some random point in outer space," Zook says as the pair get closer to the armory floor.
: "This is also true. So, I wonder what we'll find aside from nukes in here then?" Viletta walked quietly, making barely any sound as she moved, almost like a ghost.
"Nukes are elsewhere in the building. Missile silos are on different floors. I'm taking you to one of the armories, which holds smaller stuff."
: "Ah, well that's kinda disappointing. Huge bombs give me a thrill. No fun like having to disarm a bomb capable of blowing up a planet with only a minute to spare...I'd imagine. Never done that. Wanna though." Viletta giggled, thinking about this, a wild glint in her eyes.
"Sounds like quite a thrill," Zook says as the two arrive at the armory. "Here we are!"
: "Good good." Viletta looks around the locked down and smirks to herself. "This'll be cake." Viletta hums to herself as she takes off the front of the keypad, and looks at the circuitry and giggles. "I think this is the most fun of the job." She leans in, fiddling with the electronics, and the door opens.
Zook looks around quickly and begins to comb the room looking for useful items, either intact or as scrap.
Viletta looks on with interest, stepping into the room, quickly checking for any dangers.
Though mostly desolate, this room has a small cache of laser rifles and power cells for said rifles.
Viletta looks at the weapons Zook is presumably going to grab, a grin on her face. "Not bad actually..."
((4 Laser Rifles: 3d10 damage, ammo:20/20. 200' range. AP 7. 6 Rifle cells. Deals fire damage.))
Zook lifts a rifle and examines it. "You know, there are two people between both of the teams I came in here with who'd know how to use these. And we've got four, so how about an even split? Two rifles and three cells?"
"Sounds good. We all have our own gear." Viletta moved over to the rifles, picking up a couple, as well as the cells. "Next one?"
Zook nods. "Tally ho!"
"Onward bound." Viletta nods back as she leaves the room.
With one room already checked for the powered armor and another opened, four rooms remain. Their keypads still spark from when Gorrik tried to chop them off.
Viletta blinked, looking around. "Wow, that's rather...crude."
Zook nods sagely. "Can't imagine who would've done such a thing..."
"Well, let's have a looksee..." Viletta moves over to one of the sparking keypads, and with gloves on, removes the front and repeats her entry trick. "Voila."
"Come again?" Zook asks.
"Nothing. The door is open."
"No, that's not what I..." Zook shakes his head as he begins to search this room.
A rack of Ancient body armor adorns one wall of the room.
((6 suits of Battle Armor: +8 armor bonus, max Dex +5, 10% ASF, -2 ACP. Speed: 20'.))
There are also a few salvagable parts that might come in handy
Zook and Viletta move on to the second of the four remaining rooms. This room has a single rifle on a mostly empty wall rack. There are also three padded looking suits.
((3 Flight Suits: +4 armor bonus. +8 Dex max. No ASF or ACP. Blaster Rifle: 4d10 damage. 200' range. 20/20 ammo.))
Zook and Viletta move on to the second to last room.
It looks like this room has been mostly stripped clean, there's just a single shotgun on a weapons rack, a few boxes of shells beside it.
((24 shotgun shells. Shotgun: 2d8 damage, Range 40'. Ammo: 8/8.))
Zook and Viletta move on to the final room.
The final room contains a rack with a selection of pistols on it.
((Screamer Pistolsx2: 2d6 sonic damage. ammo 30/30. Range 100'.
Laser Pistol x3: 2d10 fire damage, AP 4. ammo 30/30. range 100
.357 Magnum pistolx2: 2d8 damage. range 40'. Ammo: 7/7. AP 4))
Zook totes all the heavy material to his brand new combat suit. He piles the items in the cockpit and arms of the suit.
"I'll be back for this all in a bit," he says, looking hungrily at it.
((Aside from the two rifles and three cells I gave to Viletta, this stuff is ALL MINE for the time being))

Posted by: Arcdragnbreth Thu Sep 27, 2007 8:40 pm
TENTATIVE GEAR DISTRIBUTION (Thanks to Vox for compiling) Radford's Rangers ================== Carbonweave Jacket - Maria Powerstones
Graigus's old Amulet of NA
Ring of Protection +5 - Coventry
3 Chainguns
Cedric's Smashers
==================
Boots of Teleport - Cedric
Pink Ioun Stone (+2 CON) - Damas
Bracers of Armor +8 - Kethra
Ring of Resistance +5 - Merkass
3 Chainguns
Sorel's Sulkers
================
Ring of Protection +3 - Mahler
Amulet of Natural Armor +2 - Graigus
3 Chainguns
(Alex) Bernhart's Buffoons
============================
Wings of Flying - Alex
Headband of Intellect +6 - Johann
Gloves of Dexerity +4 - Enrick
Ring of Spell Storing - Laerlas
3 Chainguns
VoxPVoxD (3:35:52 PM):
Up for grabs still
=======================
4 potions of cure serious wounds, 1 of alter self, and 2 of haste,
a +4 quarterstaff, and a Rod of absorption

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Thu Sep 27, 2007 9:12 pm
RP XP totals (tallied by Arc.): Coventry 1000 Johann 700 Maria 700 Dagron 500
Sophie 500
Enrick 400
Laeralas 400
Aurik 300
Hal 300
Michael 300
Zook 300
Alexander 200
Kria 200
Melissa 200
Merla 200
Okori 200
Sorel 250
Telanna 200
Viki 200
Villeta 200
Ash 100
Cedric 100
Farain 100
Faralon 100
Gabe 100
Jessica 100
Mahler 100
Ombligo 100
Tanis 200
Varro 100

Posted by: Knight_019 Thu Sep 27, 2007 10:11 pm
http://magic19.homestead.com/files/Castlevania_CoD_-_Epilogue__A_Time_of_Hope_and_Resolution_.mp3 *Ivellas and Kyuu walk through the streets of Mechanis, watching as the city pieces itself back together from the hellish battle some time ago. Losses were still bitter and stung deeply, but Ivellas and the others had learned to move on as they always had. They aid where needed as they wander, but Ivellas has something more on his mind than carpentry.*
: We're still waiting for Derrik.
: Yeah. I wonder where that guy is, anyway. Maybe we need more money or something.
: Haha, maybe. In any event, I am more concerned with what is happening in the outside world while we remain here. Mechanis has been quite safe, and they've rebuilt to where I believe they can fend for themselves again.
: *Kyuu nods.* What do you want to do, then?
: Do you have a way of divining what is happening outside of here? I've also heard of other groups fighting against the Strife Lords and the encroaching evil as we are.
: *Kyuu strokes his chin fur, pondering for a moment.* I don't, but some of the others might. Priests are usually better for that, since they just have to ask their god for it. I just get to know certain things... like... uh... uh... fire *Kyuu remarks shiftily.*
: ... Yes...... *Ivellas quickly changes the subject.* You make a good point, however. Can you find Myala and Daran? I have work to do, but I'd like to meet with all of you later.
http://magic19.homestead.com/files/kyuuport.png[/img] *Kyuu nods excitedly, then gives a stiff, faux-salute.* Yes sir, boss sir! *He then runs off hurriedly to his task.*
*Meanwhile, Ivellas searches for a suitable meeting place. Many of the interior buildings were in far better shape than what was left on the outskirts, so he began his search there. One of the bartender/innkeepers who had recently finished work on his establishment was more than willing to give his bar up for the evening, mentioning that he hardly had any business at the moment, anyway, what with repairs just completing.
That night, Ivellas calls together some of his most capable advisors. Time was becoming ever more of the essence, and they could little afford to wait before moving on once more. Ivellas and Kyuu, accompanied by Myala and Daran, make their way into a tavern they had procured for the evening. Maps are laid out over tables and more tables that had been brought together to create something more of a war room.*
: Kyuu, Daran, Myala - We have a lot of work to do. The Strife Lords continue to grow in strength while we wait. We need to attack, but we will need allies.
: "Oooh! Oh!" Daran says, raising his hand and squirming impatiently.
: Yes, Daran?
: "We could find the Tech Knights, we've got a few leads on that already!" Daran says.
: *Ivellas grins* "That was precisely the task I had in mind for you. What have you uncovered?"
: "Well nothing more than the last time you asked me," Daran says, blinking. "We kinda need to go to the place they're supposedly at before I can figure anything else out."
: "That's fine. Kyuu gave me an ide-"
: "Yeah, I helped!"
: "... an idea. Would we be able to divine their location?"
: Daran blinks again. "Why would we need to? I already told you where they're supposed to be at."
: It would be as easy as going there and asking for their help?
: Daran blinks again. "Why wouldn't it be? I mean, if they're fighting the Cult too, it would make sense for us to help each other."
: *Ivellas rubs his chin* "I suppose you're right. I expected them to be more... paranoid, I suppose."
: "Well I guess they might be, but we can't find out unless we go see!" Daran says with a laugh.
: *Ivellas laughs* "That's the spirit. If you can make preparations so we can move out as soon as possible, it would be for the best. Myala, I would still like some form of divination to predict if the encounter will go well or not so that we can plan accordingly. This also brings me to my next point."
*Ivellas gives Myala a moment to respond, but she sits, only more bright eyed and eager now. It would be response enough.*
: Myala in addition to that request, I would like you to use whatever method you have available - communing with Volcanon or magical - to find any potential allies to aid us against the Strife Lords.
: "Of course Ivellas. You can count on me," Myala says, smiling.
: *Ivellas nods* "That is why you are here. Do we currently have any other leads as to who might help us? They would be a place to start. There have been rumors of disturbances in other parts of the world, and the faster we find them, the better our chances of ending this conflict sooner than later."

Posted by: FreedomJu Thu Sep 27, 2007 10:35 pm
((Melissa levels up to 12(15)! Name: Melissa-127 Age: 41 Race: Human Eyes: Green
Hair: Shaved (would be red)
Class: Smart 1/Fighter 5/Soldier 6
Template: SPARTAN-II
Alignment: Lawful Neutral
EXP: 111,000
Level (LA +3): 12 (15)
HP: 137/141
Shield: 30/30
AC: 23
DR: 5/-
INIT: 8
Action Points: 27
FORT: 12
REF: 11
WILL: 6
Base Attack Bonus: +11/6/1
== Abilities ==
Base Template
STR: 14 (+2) (20 (+5))
DEX: 19 (+4) (27 (+8))
CON: 16 (+3) (20 (+5))
INT: 16 (+3) (18 (+4))
WIS: 13 (+1) (15 (+2))
CHA: 13 (+1) (13 (+1))
== Natural/Class/Template ==
Lowlight vision to 60'
Carbide Skeleton: +3 to massive damage saves, -1d6 damage to fall damage
+4 Spot
+4 Listen
Tactical Aid: TheUnknownMarine (11:43:55 PM): "bonus to attack or dodge bonus to AC equal to the soldier's Int mod."
TheUnknownMarine (11:44:10 PM): It lasts for 1/2 the soldier's Soldier level
Improved Critical (Gauss Assault Rifle, 19-20 threat range)
== Occupation ==
Military
Military covers any of the branches of the armed forces, including army, navy, air force, and marines, as well as the various elite training units such as Seals, Rangers, and Special Forces.
Prerequisite: Age 18+.
Skills: Choose two of the following skills as permanent class skills. If a skill the character selects is already a class skill, he or she receives a +1 competence bonus on checks using that skill. Climb, Demolitions, Drive, Hide, Knowledge (tactics), Move Silently, Navigate, Pilot, Survival, Swim.
Bonus Feat: Select one of the following: Brawl, Combat Martial Arts, Armor Proficiency (light), or Personal Firearms Proficiency.
(Kno: Tactics, Drive, and Personal Firearms Proficiency chosen)
== Skills ==
Knowledge: Tactics (INT): 15 + 1 (Savant) + 1 (Occupation) =17
Knowledge: Technology: 15
Demolitions (INT): 11
Computer Use (INT): 6
Drive (DEX): 10 + 1 (Occupation) = 11
Spot: 15 + 4 (Template) = 19
Listen: 15 + 4 (Template) = 19
Move Silently: 7
Hide: 7
Treat Injury (WIS): 7
Pilot (DEX): 5
Jump: 10
Disable Device (INT): 5
Survival (WIS): 6
Tumble (DEX): 7
Bluff (CHA): -2
Diplomacy (CHA): -2
Sense Motive (CHA): 7 – 2 (Flaw) = 5
== Feats ==
Personal Firearms Proficiency: The character can fire any personal firearm without penalty.
Heroic Surge: The character may take an extra move action or attack action in a round, either before or after the character’s regular actions. The character may use Heroic Surge a number of times per day depending on his or her character level (as shown below), but never more than once per round.
0/3 uses
Character Level Times per Day
1st–4th 1
5th–8th 2
9th–12th 3
13th–16th 4
17th–20th 5
Able Learner: All skills are “in-class” and only cost 1 skill point.
Point Blank Shot: The character gets a +1 bonus on attack and damage rolls with ranged weapons against opponents within 30 feet.
Precise Shot: The character can shoot or throw ranged weapons at an opponent engaged in melee without penalty.
Combat Expertise: When you take an Attack action or a Full Attack action, you may take –X to hit and get +X to your AC until your next action. X can be up to your base attack bonus, with a maximum of 5.
Improved Precise Shot: When you are making a ranged attack, the following apply: Ignore the AC bonus granted by Cover (but Total Cover still applies), ignore the miss chance generated by Concealment (but Total Concealment still applies), and when attacking an opponent that is being Grappled, you have no chance of hitting the wrong target.
Quick Reload: Reloading a firearm with an already filled box magazine or speed loader is a free action. Reloading a revolver without a speed loader, or reloading any firearm with an internal magazine, is a move action.
Dodge
Mobility
Armor Proficiency (powered)
Advanced Firearms Proficiency: The character can fire any personal firearm on autofire without penalty (provided, of course, that it has an autofire setting).
Combat Martial Arts: With an unarmed strike, the character deals lethal or nonlethal damage (the character’s choice) equal to 1d4 + the character’s Strength modifier. The character’s unarmed attacks count as armed, which means that opponents do not get attacks of opportunity when the character attacks them unarmed. The character may make attacks of opportunity against opponents who provoke such attacks.
STARSHIP OPERATION (Dropships): When operating a starship of the selected type, you take no penalty on Pilot checks made when operating the starship, and you also apply your full class bonus to Defense to the ship’s Defense.
ALIEN WEAPONS PROFICIENCY: You take no penalty on attack rolls when using any kind of alien weapon.
Weapon Focus (Gauss Assault Rifle)
Weapon Specialization (Gauss Assault Rifle)
Burst Fire: When using an automatic firearm with at least five bullets loaded, the character may fire a short burst as a single attack against a single target. The character receives a –4 penalty on the attack roll, but deal +2 dice of damage.
Firing a burst expends five bullets and can only be done if the weapon has five bullets in it.
Sense Weakness: Weapons that I have Weapon Focus for can ignore up to 5 points of DR.
== Talents==
Savant (Kno: Tactics)
== Flaws ==
Duty/Responsibility Character is sworn and legally bound into the service of a nation or group
[6 Pts.] Important/Challenging Duty: Your character’s duty is the
focus of his life, and he spends a bare handful of hours every week doing
anything not related to it. A staff officer in a sensitive military position
(nuclear missile silo duty, for example) would qualify for this level of
Duty/Responsibility
Special Handicap [Hazardous Duty, +2 Pts.]: Although danger is a
part of the life of any d20 adventure game character, your character doesn’t even have the option of choosing when and how he will face
many of the dangers in his life. He has volunteered for a position of
enhanced risk, and his superiors will frequently order him into risky situations–
perhaps even suicidal ones– regardless of his opinion on any
given mission.
GUILELESS: [2 Pts.] Socially Unpolished: Your character suffers an inherent -2
penalty to all Bluff, Diplomacy, and Sense Motive checks.
== Languages ==
Common
== Weapons ==
Gauss Assault Rifle (3d10+3 damage, 45/50 rounds, automatic or single shot, 90’ (18 squares) range, Armor Piercing 7, ignores 15 points of Hardness/DR)
Energy Flechette gun (7d6 fire, 1/5 shots, cone out to 20’, bypasses armor)
3 H.E. grenades (10d6 damage, 20' radius, Ref DC 19, 50’ max range)
== Armor ==
MJOLNIR Mark VI Armor (Powered)
Max Dex bonus: +3
Defense: +7
Armor check penalty: -5
Speed: as wearer's natural land speed
DR: 5
Other properties: 90 minute air supply
Physical Optimizers: The MJOLNIR Mark VI armor possesses powerful physical optimizers, which completely empower the wearer’s physical capacity three-fold. When making a Str, Dex, or Con ability modified check (including skill checks), the wearer may multiply the ability for the needed check by x3. The ability’s modifier is upped to the appropriate modifier by the ability’s number. (Does not count for saves)
30 points of energy shielding, regenerates every minute.
Motion Tracker: Blindsense out to 20’ in front of character. (Can detect presence and general location of things)
== Inventory ==
4 Gauss Assault Rifle clips
1 Energy Flechette gun powerpack
2 Demolition charges
4 Health Syringes (50 HP restored)
1 Medical Kit (10 uses, heals HP equal to Heal/Treat Injury skill)))

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Fri Sep 28, 2007 12:00 am
The doors to the Command Center open to allow entrance to familiar faces of Max and Anri, as well as the armored and masked figure of Sgt. Hale. : "There we are... See? Those're your people, right? And there's mine..." Hale says, pointing to the assembled adventurers.
: "Thanks for leading us here," Max says with a nod. "It's appreciated."
: "No trouble at all, in times of war everyone sticks together or they fall apart. I've got to report in, good luck with your friends there," Hale says, snapping a salute to Max before walking over to Commander Radford.
: "Thank you," Anri says, turning back to the heroes and wincing as she sees Johann's still mangled body. "Max..." she says.
: "I see him..." Max says, reaching for the Orb of Light and bringing the sacred artifact forth. "I don't think we're too late."
Surveying the room to see that no one else is dead, Max nods and strides to the side of the deceased gnome. The orb in Max's hand pulses with soft white light that suddenly shines forth, bathing Johann in sacred radiance. The holy illumination suffuses the gnome and seals his wounds, making him whole once more. After a few seconds of this, his heart begins to beat once more, and his soul is restored to his body.
: "That should do it..." Max says, stepping back.

Posted by: Knight_019 Fri Sep 28, 2007 1:23 am
: CEDRIC!!! *Aurik reaches out reflexively and with all the healing energy he can muster quickly, but he finds his efforts hampered. Something stopped his spell... antimagic of some sort. Aurik grimaces, then snarls, ready to exact vengeance upon the foul general. Retribution would be swift and terrible as a forest fire. Evil was to be cleansed, and great evil righted, so Volcanon said. However, in the middle of rushing toward Fasher, he is felled, and Aurik stops dead in his tracks. Before he can do much more, others swoop in to raise, heal, and otherwise mend the terrible tolls of battle. He sighs, lowers his armaments, and watches with relief as Max strolls forward. Before acting further, Aurik notes he is in the midst of odd company he had not seen before this. He takes time simply to regard these new allies.
Too many new faces in too short a time. How many others were there, he wondered.*
((Aurik expends a close wounds which is nixed by the AMF.))
*It seemed to good to be true that the battle was over. Quickly as it began, Fasher was dead. Adventurers other than Radford's rangers were in Megiddo, and now, he couldn't believe his eyes. Dagron landed on the ground, then rubbed his eyes. Max was here. The hero once dead now alive who had sealed away Dark Dragon in the accursed castle. It couldn't be, yet here he was, and with Anri, crazed Queen of Guardiana who had apparently regained her senses.
True to his nature, Max had undone the horrible deed visited upon Johann. Dagron had been ready to tear Fasher limb from limb for a number of reasons, but Johann's abhorrent death enraged Dagron to a point where fumes of smoke poured from mouth and nose uncontrollably. Viewing Max with the Orb of Light, however, somehow comforted him, but he wasn't exactly sure what Max had done to Johann. He hadn't known the Orb to possess such powers. Dagron walks quickly and with slight flourish of his wings from extended to his sides.*
: Max? The Max? Slayer of the Dark Dragon, leader of the Shining Force who travelled with Bleu? And you're here with Anri? Why... no, How? With whom? And... uh... thanks for fixing Johann... I think. Is he going to be ok? Oh, I'm Dagron.
*Dagron extends a clawed hand out toward the hero.*
: "Pleasure to meet you..." Max says, shaking the dragon's claw. He grins. "I was unaware any dragons survived the purge of Dragonia."
: *Dagron shakes his head.* "Dragonia? No... I'm really an... orphan... dragon... If Dragonia was purged, what happened to Bleu? I've wanted to meet him ever since I first read about him..." *Dagron looks both pensive and sad, neither emotion overwhelming the other.* "In any event, the pleasure is certainly all mine."
: Max shakes his head. "You misunderstand, the purge is what made Bleu the last of his kind... It happened long ago."
: *Dagron's eyes opened once more.* "Of course!" *Dagron then looks that the ground slightly embarassed, both about his mental lapse and about being excited over the purge in a roundabout sense.* "Yes... I thought you meant something else happened... Bleu is a tad different dragon, though. I'm a gold dragon, but he's a holy dragon, which is something to be envied. By dragons, anyway."
: "Ah, I see," Max nods.
: *Dagron's eyes move around, then remembers the others in the room, reminding him of the sudden appearance of many people with whom he was unfamiliar.* "I would ask what brings you here, but it's probably the same reason we're here. How? And Anri is with you?"
: "Anri's over there," Max points. "We arrived with Sorel and Cedric's forces, but got seperated on the way here."
: *Dagron blinks.* "Sor-what and who? And I meant 'Anri is with you' as in 'How is she here?' We arrived, and fighting was already going on. I'm presuming the group that was fighting is actually those groups. Sorry... a lot of questions, but you don't meet someone who saved the world every day."
: Max smiles. "It's a long and complicated story... I'll tell it to you later."
: *Dagron nods.* "I'm sure the others would like to hear it as well. I'm hogging your time. I'm sure Alex and Jim will have more questions. Alex is our leader, and Jim is the leader of a group of people who are definitely not from around here. They'll probably want to meet this Sorel and Cedric, and you as well... though I'm sure you're used to that by now. I'll let you get back to what you need to do. If you need to know anything more about us, know that you're more than welcome to ask me, Alex, or any one of us, for that matter, anything you want to know."
: "Thank you, I'll keep that in mind," Max says with a nod.

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Fri Sep 28, 2007 3:30 am
Sorel looks at Cedric with an expression of concern, a hand resting on his abdomen. "Are you well?" "Ah," Sorel says. "I remember the first time. It was so many deaths ago..." Cedric coughs weakly, pushing himself up and clumbering to his feet. "Nevermind..." He dismisses Sorel's concern, looking around for a moment, "I take it we have been victorious..."
"We have," Sorel says. "Thanks in large part to the aid of..." He turns to Jim. "I do not even know your name."
"Jim Radford," Jim says, extending his hand. "You would be?"
Sorel accepts Jim's hand, shaking it weakly. "Sorel."
Cedric coughs weakly, pushing himself up and clumbering to his feet. "Nevermind..." He dismisses Sorel's concern, looking around for a moment, "I take it we have been victorious..."
Jim nods. "It was a difficult battle, but I've been informed the base is almost completely secure. We're just flushing out the little pockets of resistance at this point."
*Alexander, who had just finished checking up on his ally Johann and nodding to Max, joins the others.* Alexander: "Hello, Jim."
"I am Theodoric...knight of Cypress and paladin of Mitula." Cedric states plainly, turning his attention to the GDO commander.
He pauses for a moment, arching an eyebrow at the strange equipment, then adds, "You the warriors seeking the Strife Lords from other worlds, correct?"
"In a fashion. We actually were unaware of our compatriots on this world until we arrived," Jim said. "We came here to investigate a strange call that emanated from this place... What we found was a world at war, and members of our force already joining battle. You'll have to forgive us, we know relatively little of the situation right now. These Strife Lords lead the Cult that has begun a worldwide conquest, this is correct?" Jim asks.
"You think YOU know little? Well just wait until you find out how clueless we are..." Sorel nods. "The Chaos Cult is the name they have chosen. Fitting."
Alexander: "Who are the others? Sorry I was a bit late, I had to make sure Johann was okay. Actually, hold on. Hal, get over here!"
The friar obliges his brother's request. "What's this then? A meeting of the minds?" Hal smiles weakly. "I might be a tad out of my depth." He gives Cedric a searching look, but doesn't speak to him.
"I see...so you are merely reinforcements and have no greater knowledge of our enemy." Cedric states quietly.
The nearby silver dragonman is looking over the GDO unit with renewed interest.
Jim chuckles. "Reinforcements? I wouldn't say that. The Rangers are an independant unit from these Black Ops you seem to have encountered. Our mission is to investigate the strange happening in this world. I think I can safely say that a worldwide invasion falls into that category," Jim states. "Our knowledge of the current situation isn't too in depth, but we've a great deal of information regarding this world in general..." Jim smiles. "If you'd kindly fill us in on what's been happening, I'll gladly help you as best I can."
Despite his weakness, Sorel must bite his bottom lip to suppress a smile. "That is not, I think, what he meant. But no matter." He turns to Alexander. "I am Sorel."
Alexander: "I am Alexander. A pleasure to meet you, Sorel. And you?" *He shakes Sorel's hand, then addresses Cedric.*
Cedric crosses his arms, looking at the GDO commander, "You have allies who have chased our foes aganist a thousand worlds...and yet you know nothing of them?"
He shakes his head, "I find that troubling..."
"A thousand worlds have tens of thousands of evils," Sorel says as an aside to Cedric. "I do not think we ought to fault them for their lack of knowledge."
Jim frowns. "Black Ops is called that for a reason... They run covert and secret operations. We're part of the main force. The Black Ops are the dagger. We are the hammer." Jim sighs. "It's much the same as the relationship within a kingdom's forces... There exist the spies and forces that perform their work in secret, and there exist the main soldiers that fight normally. Having seperate chains of command up to a point, we can't know everything the other knows."
Then he looks around, "A lack of knowledge can easily be restored but communication..." Cedric replies, then he frowns, "Black Ops?" He seems about to contiune but then nods to Alex instead, "I am Sir Cedric Theodoric of Cypress."
"Black Ops sounds like a rather nasty sort of measles..." Hal says, brightly.
Jim smiles at Hal's comment. "Public relations aren't their specialty."
"You know, perhaps this isn't the best time for a conference," Hal says. "We've been fighting for what seems like weeks and I'd wager we're all dead tired. Maybe we can camp together, share a meal."He grins. "I'm an excellent cook."
*Alexander nods.* "A knight? It's good to see a knight here. You have a great deal of experience battling these fiends, I take it?"
"Sharing knowledge is a key to implementing proper strategy." Cedric states simply, "It would be wise to impress the importance of that onto these...black ops." He then nods, "Yes, my allies and I drove the lord of the twisted web from Cypress..."
"I like the idea... but that might be a problem, logistically. I've got about 60 or so troops in my group," Jim says to Hal. "How would you set it up?" Jim then frowns. "Lord of the Twisted Web? One of the Strife Lords?" Jim says, turning to face Cedric.
"Yes," Sorel says. "There are -- or were -- three. Shailtor, Erebeus, and Xadoss. Xadoss is destroyed."
"One of the remaining two." Cedric states coldly, his eyes vindicated, "We slew Xadoss earlier this day."
"The problem with that..." Jim sighs. "Is that all that's left of the Black Ops are grunts. Their command structure was decimated during the fighting. The people that are left only know only slightly more than we do. That's why I was hoping to get information from people who've been in the fight longer," Jim says with a nod. "Can you describe these Strife Lords and their capabilities?"
Hal's smile broadens. "I'd imagine we'd be able to get ahold of Mister Swiftjoke to provide us with some of the essentials for conjuring goods of that quantity, and then I and some helpers can add a special touch."
"You send warriors to fight a being such as Shailtor blindly? Corruption is his chief delight and torment..." Cedric questions with a frown, then shakes his head, clapping his hands, "Faralon, Zook, come! I have need of your knowledge."
Jim turns back to Hal. "If he actually can procure that many supplies, I have no objection... Morale desperately needs raising. But where would we do this? The base is hardly a fit place for such a thing."
: Jim frowns again. "I haven't sent anyone to fight anyone blindly, hence my asking for information."
"The Fairy Woods," Sorel interjects. "We can feast with the villagers and camp outside the forest."
"The... Ah, you mean the secret Elven village," Jim nods in comprehension. "Isn't that a bit small though?"
"We must destroy the weapons of the ancients beforehand." Cedric states sternly, "Their blight must never again threaten the world."
Zook ambles forward with his bulging satchel, panting under the strain of carrying it. He sets it down. "Whew, heavy." He looks up to Cedric. "What'd you need?"
"Destroy what weapons? You mean the nukes?" Jim asks.
Sorel's expression changes subtly, as if he has remembered something long forgotten.
"Yes...yes it is a bit small. But we need not burden their beds. We can camp outside the forest."
"This man claims to be of the same creed as Lisa....though he knows nothing of the Strife Lords." Cedric nods to Jim, "Tell him what you knowledge you gained from the doomed star vessel."
Jim frowns, then shrugs. "All right... If you're sure they won't mind. We should secure the village's permission first. Most would feel uncomfortable with an army at their doorstep."
He frowns, looking around for the trusty bard, "Faralon will speak more of the evil acts of the Strife Lords."
"We just left there," Sorel says. "I would think they would be happy to know we were victorious, and that we have allies."
"All right then," Jim nods to Sorel. "I'll order my men to move out as soon as the wounded are tended to."
"You mean about what the Strife Lords are?" Zook asks. "They're hostile, alien beings, created purely of negative energy. They feed on negative emotion, on misery and pain. But it's not good enough to just be cheerful around them, it'd take...you know, this is a rather extensive briefing I could do a lot more effectively after a glass of water and a nap," he finishes, looking at Cedric.
Cedric scowls slightly, then shakes his head, "Very well." He glances at the nearby gnome, "What must be done to rid the world of those weapons?"
"You'd have to disable their warheads, then dismantle them," Zook says after a moment's thought. "The warhead is the dangerous bit, the one that does all the damage. I think I could do it, with enough time."
Then he claps the back of his head. "Oh! I almost forgot. Viletta probably has a 'dismantle nukes' button on her computer."
"Villianetta?" Cedric asks.
"The Black Ops will be staying here to secure the base and make sure no one tries to take it again, so that can safely be left in their hands, I believe," Jim says. "Villetta is a soldier under my command."
"Viletta's one of his," Zook says, pointing at Radford, to whom Zook now turns. "Whose idea was the rocket sword?"
Cedric frowns slightly, "These 'grunts' who know nothing of the peril this world is in will dismantle these weapons of the Ancients?"
*Faralon walks over, nodding to the others.* "Gentlemen."
As the discussion contiunes, the silver dragonman rests a clawed hand on the elderly druid's shoulder, speaking in a low growl, "Where are the others?"
Alexander: "So let me get this straight...You actually managed to destroy one of the Strife Lords? That is incredible!"
Jim rubs his forehead. "The grunts know everything about this base. They were only briefly briefed on the global situation."
"The other what?" Sorel asks, turning to look at the dragonman. "Do I know you?"
"Your leader...for example..." The dragonman contiunes lowly, "Where is he?"
Sorel looks intently at the dragonman. "I am sorry?"
*Alexander looks confused at the dragonman.* "I thought Sorel was the leader?"
"Look, I've had precious little time to speak with anyone not under my command, so I might not have gotten the full story," Jim says wearily. "We've been under attack since we've arrived."
Hal lays a hand on Jim's shoulder. "Don't worry about it. Your troops need you fit and calm."
"No..." The dragonman replies, "There was another... The dwarf is here, where is Dicem? ...or the paladin for that matter? What of the hero?"
"Thanks for your concern... Hal, was it?" Jim says, nodding to the cleric.
Hal nods, frowning that he could not help the beleagured, if Jolly, Jim.
"Very well..." Cedric nods, glancing around, "Zook, you will guide Jim and most of the others back to the Fairy Woods."
"Actually..." Jim says. "We can teleport there. The thought is appreciated, though."
Sorel looks at the dragonman, a mixture of emotions crossing his face, all of them negative. "He died. The hero is over there," he says, pointing. "Who are you?"
"Either way..." Cedric shrugs at Jim's teleportation, he turns to the nearby bard, "Faralon, I want you, Kyoji, and Isyndel to remain here with me."
"To do what?" Zook asks.
*Faralon nods.* "Certainly. Mind if I play a requiem first?"
"I will not leave this foul fortress defended only by those with unknown capabilities..." He nods quietly, looking to Sorel, "I would that you would leave Gilliam with us as well."
"Sir, I think we can trust these guys, and you need the rest just as much as any of us." Zook says, quietly.
*Faralon begins to play on his lute a sad melody, for the fallen and for the weary.* ((Perform: 35 heh))
Alexander: "Your comrades are surely exhausted, Sir Cedric, and you look very tired yourself. I assure you, we are all on the same side. My forces fought alongside Jim's."
"This is nothing..." Cedric replies darkly, glancing at the gnome, "You will return here on the morrow with your assistants to begin destroying those weapons."
Zook nods once. "Got it."
"In the meantime," Hal pipes up, "I'd wager many of you have never tried Destonian Potato Pie."
Jim sighs. "The weapons will be destroyed by the time you return. Feel free to confirm it with your own eyes."
Zook winces at Jim's reply. "Really, it's no trouble, I can just come by in the morning and take a look around." He nudges Cedric's thigh. "Alright?"
"I'm not leaving...until those weapons are destroyed.." Cedric replies simply to the GDO commander, then glances at Zook, "Go rest, you deserve it. I will keep watch until then."
"No," Zook says, in a very small voice. "No, sir, I really think you ought to rest."
Jim frowns. "This may be an odd question, but why are you so hellbent on seeing those weapons destroyed? Did someone USE one or something?"
Zook sighs. "You ever stop and wonder why these guys are 'the Ancients' and we're still living in their technological shadow?"
"Oh, you mean the apocalypse? I thought the devils did that," Jim says with a frown.
"Yes." Cedric states bitterly to Jim, "One thousand years ago that mockery of life we just dispatched destroyed the world with them. I will not allow such a thing to happen again."
"Yeah...bit of a sore spot." Zook adds, with a hint of his own bitterness.
"So they used nukes?" Jim asks. "Ah, so that's how it is here... You don't have to worry quite so much, then. There aren't enough warheads left in the base to raze the continent much less the world. Still, I see now why you're so insistent. If it will put you at ease, I can have you watch the dismantling before we leave. It will take about... I'd say two to three hours," Jim says.
Zook looks once at his massive and bulging satchel, and then at Cedric. "Well?"
"Very well... The others may rest..." He nods approvingly, "I will remain to behold the end of this threat."
Zook sighs, and he shoulders the burden again. "I'm staying with him."
"I forbid it." Cedric states simply, "You will return to the Fairy Woods."
"Now that that's out of the way..." Jim says. "I have to say first of all that my forces will gladly commit themselves to ending the threat of these 'Strife Lords'."
*Faralon stops playing his lute.* "Why don't we have Zook just oversee the job and Jim can help out?"
"Sir, with all due respect, and that's quite a lot, I can't let you sit and stew in a haunted house with no company but space people. You will go insane."
Jim heaves a heavy sigh. "OK, I guess it's not out of the way."
Sorel and the dragonman engage in a prolonged side conversation, and the dragonman departs, Sorel soon following. "Forgive me," the old man says to the other leaders hastily before departing.
"Well whatever you decide, we can talk of war once everyone has had a chance to rest at the village," Jim states. "If you'll excuse me, I have duties to attend to, then I'll arrange for a teleportation to the village."
To reiterate: Rangers have the following items distributed in total
Carbonweave Jacket - Maria
Powerstone: Death Urge (Augmented with +8 DC, duration 4 rounds.)- Maria
Powerstone: Psionic True Seeing- Maria
Powerstone: Psionic Disintegrate (Augmented: Failed save takes 27d6 damage.) -Maria.
Graigus's old Amulet of NA +1: Jim
Ring of Protection +5 - Coventry
1 Laser Rifle: Villetta
3 Power cells: Villetta.
3 Chainguns> Marked for sale.
1 Laser Rifle> Marked for sale.

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Fri Sep 28, 2007 4:25 am
The tending of wounds takes longer than anyone suspected, the healers as drained as they were, and everyone ends up staying while the nuclear weapons are destroyed, and they all leave as one. As soon as they leave the ruins, the assembled forces are met by Derrik. "So I see you've met up with the others... and destiny!" Derrik says, a smile playing around his lips.
*Faralon squints at Derrik, remembering the merchant's interest in Simone.* "Hello, Derrik. It's been a while."
"You don't meet up with destiny," Hal says. "You can't escape her."
*Alexander shakes his head.* "Hal, you've been using that one for years."
Derrik smiles at Faralon. "Hello Faralon... Indeed it has been a while. But I'm afraid I must be off soon so I'll keep this short. You have anything you want to buy or sell after that ordeal?"
"I'd like to make some purchases," Hal says. "Just a few. Some spells to conjure lots of food and drink, enough for about 500, I'd say."
Alexander: "Hal, I really don't think we've got the money for that..."
"I've got a fair amount, and I can always trade something in to pay for the rest," Hal replies. "This is important, Alex!"
*Alexander nods.* "I know it's important, but five hundred? Just how many scrolls would that be?"
Hal dismisses his brother's worry with a wave of his hand. "Don't get worked up about it. Just think about uncle Jarvis's recipe for bitterbread pudding."
"You could just order the food itself..." Derrik says with a grin. "It'll be difficult... But I can get my hands on food for about 400, I think. But there can't be 400 of you..." Derrik frowns. "What do you need that much food for?"
"It's always better to overestimate," Hal says, brightly. "And apparently it's also feeding a small village. It'd be rude to set up a feast and expect them to feed themselves."
*Ombligo floats in unexpectedly.* "Did someone say food?"
"Oh my!" Hal says, grinning. "Yes, yes I did. Just setting it up with the inestimable mister Swiftjoke."
"Well 400 people... You want food and drink? Some of it you'll have to prepare yourself, but I can get a few preprepared foodstuff too," Derrik says.
"No trouble at all," Hal says, still smiling.
Ombligo: "Maybe Sorel can help find some, too...He was always good at finding really great berries!"
"That will run you..." Derrik says, running over the cost. "Four thousand gold coins." "That's the cost for the full banquet of course," Derrik says. "I can get you lower quality food for a lower price."
"Hmm..." Hal mumbles, looking through his things. He pulls out six potions. "How much can I get for these?"
*Faralon shakes his head.* "No...No, that won't be necessary. Don't sell possibly useful items for a feast. I will contribute to it." *The elf winks at Derrik once more.* "With a discount, of course."
Derrik heaves a sigh. "Yes, yes, the 10% discount. So 3,600 gold for you, Faralon."
*Faralon smiles.* "Then it's agreed."
Hal claps his hands. "Light bless your generosity, sir."
"I'll have the food ready by late tonight," Derrik says, outstretching his hand. "The gold?"
*Faralon nods.* "Yes, let me get it." *After some time, Faralon manages to gather all 3,600 gold pieces necessary for the purchase.* "Here you are."
"Thank you," Derrik says with a grin. "I'll be back later with the goods."
Then there was an indefinite time for anyone else to sell or buy.
---
Hal turns to Faralon as the group begins trading with Derrik. "That really was indescribably generous of you. I'd hire someone to sing a song in your honor, but I imagine you'd do a better job... so what's your favorite food?"
*Faralon nods.*
: "A feast sounds like a grand idea. We've had a few already, and I feel I should personally contribute to this one more than just through singing. I couldn't bare to see that devil of a man make you sell things to be able to do nice things for others, so I thought I would intervene. Anyway...are you familiar with elven delicacies?"
"Elven food...light and sweet, but always wonderfully refreshing. Blackcurrant and primrose tart, hot sparrow broth, mmm... yes, I have a passing familiarity with elven cuisine. Had some elves at the monastery, always clamoring for their favorites."
*Faralon laughs, smiling.*
: "Yes, pretty much anything elven will do. I'll admit, it's one of my weaknesses."
Hal chuckles appreciatively. "We all have our weaknesses. I promise there'll be a host of elven dishes, as well as a few of my own you might appreciate."
: "How many years have you been cooking, anyway? You seemed quite anxious to set up this feast."
"Oooh..." Hal says, thinking back. "Better part of twenty years, I'd say. I joined the monastery at...16, I think, and they made me cook's apprentice right away. Became the full cook about a year later." He chuckles. "I'm a decent healer, if I do say so myself, but when it comes to cooking..." He beams.
: "I can't wait...This will be the best feast to date! I better prepare a good song to keep up with the food!"
Hal laughs, and claps Faralon on the back. "You'd better get to work then, maestro. Now if you'll excuse me, I've still got a few more rounds to make."
*Faralon nods to Hal as the healer leaves.*
---
Zook walks up to Derrik with enormous amounts of equipment in tow. "Hi there, Derrik! How much does all this net me? Maybe we can work out a trade -- anything you think might interest me?"
((Zook is selling:
Laser Pistol x2
.357 Magnum x1
2 Flight Suits
4 Suits of Battle Armor
3 DE Chainguns))

Posted by: Wandering Dezorian Fri Sep 28, 2007 4:41 am
Holzgeist whined, looking from one still form to the other. His mental link with his master and friend had failed completely, which told him in no uncertain terms that the gnome was dead. But Sha'aasta hadn't... she still looked just like... then she was still alive, the wolf concluded.
As the two-legs went about doing whatever two-legs do at a time like this, the wolf padded up to her, nudging her softly and patiently until her eyes flashed open. "What on earth...?" she wondered aloud, holding her head and looking around. Bodies of enemy soldiers littered the battlefield, and strange men mingled with familiar ones in that somber camaraderie that settles in after a fight, after the shock of surviving passes but before the beer has started flowing.
Then her eyes settled on a still form, blood still matting his hair and face. He looked almost as if he were sleeping... "Johann!" the girl cried out, trying to run to her friend and falling as her balance gave out, scrabbling on all fours to get to his side as quickly as possible.
As she knelt by his side, rocking back and forth, shocked to her very core, something slowly worked its way through her reeling mind. Something wasn't right... The blood caked his face, his clothes, and the floor around him, more blood than she had ever thought would be inside his tiny frame, but his coloring wasn't the grayish pallor of a bled-out body. His complexion was... healthy. She looked more closely, scared to accept what her senses were telling her, when she saw chest rising and falling imperceptibly.
With a cry of delight, she gathered him to her, holding him in her arms until he woke up. What passed between them then, no one would ever know, as they spoke through their minds and their faces alone, rather than trusting their feelings to the inadequacy of the spoken word.

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Fri Sep 28, 2007 5:09 am
"Well, well..." Derrik says, looking at the loot. "I don't have much in the way of tinker items... But I do have a very special magical ring on sale." "Really? Whadda ya sellin'?" Zook asks. "They call it a Ring of Heaven," Derrik says, procuring a platinum ring set with diamonds and runes.
"The cost is a mere 80,000 gold co... Ah, that damnable discount. 70,000 gold coins."
Zook nods. "Hmm. And how much will all this run me with the 10% hike on selling price?"
"Other than that, the items you bring me, I will buy for..." Derrik says, looking over the weapons. "12,000 gold coins."
"So these" Zook gestures at the gear "Are worth 12 thousand to you on their own?" He frowns. "Tch. If all this loot only gets me twelve thousand than the ring is a bit too steep for me."
Derrik shrugs. "The offer's open. Sorry about the prices, but that's hardly the cream of the Ancient tech crop you have there."
Zook looks at Derrik for a moment. "Let's say... Let's say I had an Ancient Assault Hardsuit. Fully functional, charged battery, with a mounted flamethrower, plasma rifle, and dual rocket launchers. How much -- hypothetically -- would that go for?"
Derrik arches both eyebrows and looks at Zook incredulously. "If you actually found such a thing, it would be near priceless... Uh... I'd buy it for 200,000 gold coins. Frankly it might be worth more, but until I have time to rebuild my stock and funds, that's all I can afford to pay... IF you had it."
Zook bites down on his knuckle, making undefined sounds of anguish. "I need time to think about this. Can we talk about something else? What have you heard from Cypress?"
"Cypress proper is fully secure. They're still skirmishing with uprisings and Cult forces in the Iom former territory though."
"Any news of King Nick? I haven't had hide nor hair of him since he up and knighted me." Zook says quickly, sweat starting to bead on his face, His hands tremble.
"Oh, yeah. He's ruling from Cypress Castle again. Ordering troops hither and thither."
"I remember he said something else too. Something about..." but Zook is cut off by a sudden and fierce bout of the hiccups. He stands there, wheezing, for a full minute before it stops. "I forget. It'll come to me. I need... I need time. Time. Can you stop by the Fairy Woods tomorrow?"
"Sure, why not?" Derrik says with a shrug.
"Alright," Zook says, pushing the gear forward. "Twelve thousand for this. How much of that is from the three chainguns?"
"4,500."
"Alright," Zook says. "Yeah, give me the gold and... and I'll deal with the rest later."
"Very well," Derrik says, handing over the gold.
"Thanks," Zook says distractedly, trying to sort the gold from the chainguns into a separate bag with badly shaking hands. "P-pleasure doing business with you."
"Likewise."
Zook walks off, cursing loudly in Gnomish the entire way.

Posted by: Cyrus Fri Sep 28, 2007 5:23 am
The sound of metal greaves, hoofed feet, and racing wings announces the approach before they appear, a silver-haired young woman leading a - by contrast - normal looking group of warriors pouring from the emergency stairwell, and into the Command Center. The knight in charge, bright blue eyes looking out under furrowed brow, panted as she scanned faces both strange and familiar, disappointment soon setting in with a realization. They had come too late. The paladin had ordered her troop around when Fasher's prophecy of death echoed through the halls, and even then, they hadn't come close to...a wet cough interrupts her thoughts, the knight shooting a hand to her mouth and clenching her fist to hide the blood. The mission was not even accomplished...those black armored men said they would take care of it, but could she trust them? To suddenly appear, out of nowhere, and they spoke of it so casually, like it wasn't worth consideration...It didn't feel right for her to leave it to them. Still, if they had truly meant to accomplish such a mission, it would be done by now, and not worth worrying about. Spotting Sorel, she rushes to her leader, leaving her team mates to do as they wish.
: "Sorel...I'm sorry. We weren't here to help when everyone needed us."
Sorel looks at Gail, and he looks older and more sickly than she has ever seen him. But still he is glad to see her.
: "Do not worry," he says. "We had some help from unexpected friends."
For a moment, Gail's face is crossed with concern, her mind jumping to a terrible conclusion. She does not voice it, instead pushing her lips into a slight smile. "Yes...I believe we saw some of their friends while we were running back through this place. It surprised me - at first, I thought they were more of those skeleton soldiers. They were the ones who completed our task, actually..." The smile drops as her eyes turn to the new arrivals. "Do we know who they are?"
Sorel tilts his head. "Not exactly. We will know more... one of them has decided to arrange a feast for us all."
Gail's brows raise at the prospect, remembering the last time the force had earned such a reward. "How generous...last time we were part of one, we went out and funded it." She chuckles softly at the memory, before her gaze falls to the side with a turn of her head. "It's hard to believe that was barely two weeks ago..."
"Time has a way of slowing down, it seems," Sorel admits. "But the number of our allies has tripled. Perhaps we will be better prepared for the future together."
Gail is silent, watching the activity of the gathered groups. She shakes her head distantly.
: "The future...how much longer will this go on before it's over?"
"I cannot say," Sorel says.
Gail does not reply, simply observing the movements of the people around her. "We'll succeed," she suddenly blurts out, looking to her friend with uneasy determination. "...Won't we?"
: "I would stake my life on it." Sorel cracks a thin, humorless smile. "But the value of that statement is questionable these days."
The angel-blooded grimaces at the morbid joke, idle fingers tracing the black iron torc around her neck. She then returns the smile with a forced smirk. "Then I suppose I'll just have to restore it to its rightful place."
Sorel offers Gail the same thin smile, and sighs. "Have you had the chance to speak to any of the members of the other forces? I saw a few clerics wearing the symbol of the Light. A man and a woman. The man is actually who arranged the feast. Perhaps you would like to speak to them?"
Gail stares at the old druid for a moment, then turns away, nodding. "Yes...Yes, that's...that sounds prudent. We don't know how long we'll be together, I should get to know them while I can." A light smile crosses her face, before it dissapates with a sigh. She then walks off from Sorel, heading to the preacher, stopping once to lean upon a pillar and cough into her hand.
"Gail," Sorel says sharply. "Are you alright?"
Gail stops suddenly, taking a short look at her hand before clenching it. She doesn't meet his eyes.
: "It's nothing, compared to everyone else; There are those that need care more than I do." She turns, finally, showing a tired smile. "I'll take care of it. I promise."
Sorel gives Gail a searching look.
: "See the healer." Sorel says firmly. It doesn't sound like a request. "And please do not conceal your injuries."
Gail tenses at the order, closing her eyes as she turns away. "Yes, sir," she says softly, before parting company from her leader.
Sorel watches Gail depart, before turning away himself.

Posted by: Kaihaku Fri Sep 28, 2007 10:39 am
((Well... That was a swift departure... This takes place beforehand... I'm a little teapot... The only thing worst than roleplaying two of your characters interacting is roleplaying a character and their pet interacting. This is about the lowest of the low. I'm sorry.))
Maria brushes off her coat with a sigh, glancing up to where the hero was waiting for the antimagic field to fade so he could resurrect the slain gnome. Her eyes are troubled as she reaches into a pocket and pulls out a crystal, staring at it intently, "...what happened?"
The crystal vibrates, producing a subdued imitation of the psion's voice, "The fox having vanished since your sudden demise and subsequent revival, I suppose that it should come as no surprise that now you recall that I exist."
Her eyes narrowing at the reminder, the psion glances around with a frown, "...wait...where is Okori?"
"The Swarm...such a clever sobriquet for such a clever epithet..." The crystal replies passively.
"Huh...Worm that Walks is a clever epithet." Maria replies with sudden appreciation.
((Kaihaku: It is?))
"I knew you'd think so." The crystal replies indifferently.
"No, no, no..." Maria shakes her head and glares the crystal, "No distractions! I don't have time to play games with you, where is Okori?"
"Last I saw him, before you decided to transport the dead body of that gnome... Johann, wasn't it?" The crystal pauses for a moment, then continues, "...well, before you decided to transport the body of poor Johann all over the room, your precious fox was fine."
Maria breaths a sigh of relief, "Ah, thank goodness."
"It would be beneficial to have your mental capacities checked after this mission." The crystal adds after a moment, "I have noted some degradation, particularly in regards to your memory."
"...what?" Maria asks.
"You completely forgot the existence of your spiritual companion three times today. Twice seriously. Additionally, when you were assigned the of role field command you neglected to report to your Commander as instructed." The crystal responds neutrally, "Recently, you have regularly failed to recall information relevant to the situation at hand, knowledge which you have studied at length and should be able to recall with ease... Instead, you seem to remember almost at random, as if your memory were determined by the roll of a die." There is a pause, "Additionally, you completely neglected my abilities on this mission, did you forget my usefulness on similar operations in the past?" The crystal continues on dully, "Over the last year, you have repeatedly 'lost track of time' and missed scheduled events such as mission briefings and meals. Three months ago, you forgot to file your mission report on schedule. Four weeks ago, you overlooked standard procedure for a class 6 mission and teleported aboard the Vagabond without undergoing the standard decontamination process. A week after that, you borrowed thirty credits from Jessica, promising to pay her back 'tomorrow'..."
"Oh crap..." Maria gasps, "I forgot about that."
"You have regularly expressed interest in developing off duty friendships with the new team members, yet you have yet to approach Melissa or Varro on non-mission related matters."
"...that's has nothing to do with my memory...the two are like automatons..." Maria mutters grumpily, then sighs, "I'm not as bad as you make it sound..."
"Yesterday was your parent's anniversary." The crystal counters.
"Oh damn..." Maria pauses, her face going pale, "I forg...wait..." Her eyes narrow, "No it wasn't."
"You had to think about it." The crystal replies.
"...are you trying to convince me that I'm going crazy?" Maria asks quietly.
"No. Your memory isn't that bad...for a human." The crystal replies with a light laugh, or at least as much of a laugh as a crystal can manage, "Though, you did forget that you don't have time for distractions."
"...I hate you."
"So, now you hate yourself?"
Maria is silent for a moment, then chuckles, "...fine, just tell me what happened?"
"Crying out 'WITNESS YOUR DOOOOOOM' like villains from those old giant robot shows, two cybernetically enhanced zombified psions appeared..." The crystal explains, "One of which manifested a fully augmented electric energy ball which slew you and nearly slew the female gnome...Sha'aasta."
"Well, you may just be a fragment of my personality embedded in a crystal but no one can fault your memory." Maria sighs.
"Thank you." The crystal replies without emotion, "You should really let the fox hold onto me."
"Why?"
"It would be more difficult to forget about him for one...." The crystal replies, "...he'll always have a little piece of you with him. How sweet."
Maria sighs, "...so...what happened after I got killed?"
"Doc Coventry, dare I ask if you remember him?" The crystal questions, then continues without waiting for reply, "He was one of the people Sheila picked up..."
"I know who he is..."
"Oh, very good." The crystal replies almost approvingly, "He manifested some sort of mystical power which revived you...without the standard detriments of resurrection."
"Really?" Maria blinks, looking around with a frown, "I didn't see him when I...woke up."
"Did you miss when he transformed into a dragonman early on?"
"Oh..." Maria chuckles, rubbing her head, "I guess I missed that, I was distracted you know..."
"I suppose challenging an ancient psionic lich to battle with only a fox to help you is an adequate excuse."
"I should thank him..." Maria frowns. ...and find Okori.
"Why?" Don't you think the fox will find you himself soon enough?
"For saving my life?" I hope so...
"I didn't realize that was grounds for gratitude..." The crystal ponders, "You might want to let some of the others know, I don't believe that they are aware of that relational nuance."
Maria shakes her head with a slight smile, sliding the crystal back into a pocket.
She pauses for a moment, watching the hero work his magic on the slain gnome, than shrugs, "Well, well... This place seems full of miracle workers." She then starts walking towards the assembly of leaders.
Sophie stands a short distance from where the vile General Fasher fell, attending to the wounded Sha'aasta. Mystical light bathes the fallen gnome, restoring her to health, though still leaving her weary after the vicious struggle.
The young priestess smiles reassuringly at her friend; then stands with a sigh and looks around the battered wreckage of the command centre. Her eyes light on the psionic operative and she starts towards her, calling out, "Excuse me?!"
Maria pauses, arching at eyebrow at the priestess.
Sophie attempts a smile though her worry is evident, "You...you're the one who took Johann's body..." She pauses uncertainly, "Aren't you?"
Maria nods, "Oh, yes." She nods back to the corner of the room from which she was coming, "The hero is just reviving him now."
"Really?!" Sophie exclaims in surprise and delight, "Oh, how wonderful..."
Maria nods, then tilts her head curiously, "You are a cleric traveling with Alexander, correct?"
Sophie nods, her face still alight with happiness.
"What area do you specialize in?"
Sophie blinks, "My specialization?"
Maria nods.
"It's just..." Sophie chuckles lightly, "...you're the first person to ever ask me, everybody just assumes that my sole purpose for existing is to conjure positive energy." She adds with a smile, "Divination."
Maria grins, "You mean the servants of the gods can do more than smite evil and cure wounds?"
"Well, depends, are we talking about Volcanon or the other gods?"
Maria hesitates for a moment. Was that the bird...or the flying ship... Ah crap, wasn't one of the gods a mountain or something?
Did you forget already?
Maria then chuckles awkwardly and glances around, "Quite the battle... Glad to see that you made it through it in one piece."
"Yes..." Sophie nods, then adds lowly, "Though...others weren't so fortunate..."
"Tell me about it..." Maria chuckles ruefully.
Sophie looks at her questioningly.
"I got hit with the wrong end of a lightning bolt...and ended up dead" She shakes her head, "Makes me glad this little gathering brought with it more than a few means of resurrection. "
Sophie winces, glancing at the unknown Knight whose brain had exploded and then in the direction of Johann.
"Well, I have thanks to give, so I'll see you around." She nods and moves on.
Sophie nods with a friendly smile and starts towards Johann.
((A long time in coming but reunion editted in!!! See below!))
Maria looks around the command center with a frown, her eyes searching for any sign of the foxling.
Maria hears a whimpering coming from behind one of the odd pillars arrayed symmetrically around the chamber.
The psion winces, sorrow appearing in her eyes, making for the sound at once with a concern written on her face. She whispers lightly as she approaches, "...okori?"
The pathetic sound leads to a shivering, pale white fox, looking miserably at the steel floor as if it was lost in the rain. his ears twitch at the sound of his name, wheeling around...and before long, Maria finds herself under assault by a barrage of happy licks to the face and even happier thoughts to her mind, her familiar jumping up to greet her. You're alive! You're ALIVE!
Maria laughs until tears come, then giggles as the kitsune licks them away. Finally, she hugs the fox spirit tighly and shakes her head ruefully...but happily, I...I'm sorry for being so reckless... She pauses for a moment, real tears threatening, "I'm a headstrong fool..." Then she chuckles weakly with relief, "...but my luck is pretty damn good."
"Well, I think some of the others have got you beaten there...Varro practically runs on a track," Okori laughs before his face falls, his emotions catching up with his mind. "But...I guess he didn't make it, either." He turns back to the since silent metal shell. "Will he be okay, too?"
Maria frowns, trying to keep her voice lighthearted, "Yeah... Adam will have him up and running no problem." She shakes her head, "...man, that...thing was something else. I can't believe how it tore into him...and Liam..." She lowers her head for a moment, pondering something, then kneels down, setting the fox on the floor. She pulls a small glowing crystal from an inner pocket and holds it out him, "...here..." She hesitates for a moment, then nods again, reassuring herself, "...I want you to keep this with you."
The fox yips as he's placed to the ground, tilting his head at Maria's hesitant nature. His eyes grow wide at the shining crystal, and the animal examines it, sniffing it and pawing it before easily - and uncertainly - picking it up with his teeth. What is it?
"Annoying..." Maria mutters, rolling her eyes, then notices the fox looking up at her and chuckles weakly, "Um...it's a concentrated fragment of my personality..." She smiles, "Think of it as a little piece of me."
"Now, we can always be together." The crystal pulsates dryly in a subdued version of the psion's voice, "...or something along those lines."
Another yipe comes as the crystal makes use of its dry wit, the shape-shifting spirit scrabbling to stop it from smashing against the stubborn steel floor. Catching it between his paws, he sighs, relieved. "You really can put yourself in there...," he comments, looking deeply into the transparent fragment. "That's a trick I gotta learn. You should be kind of funny, though...is that because there's only a little you in there?"
"Yeah, just one small part of me." Maria smiles wistfully, then smiles, "Doesn't make for good balance…" She chuckles thoughtfully, "Well, maybe I could teach you some psionics?"
"You mean where you zip back and forth, dispersing sutff with beams and all that? I don't know, that sounds awfully similar to what I'm doing already...but I could always use a few more tricks, I guess...Hmm." The fox falls into serious contemplation, weighing the pros and cons of studying under her host in a veritable tennis match of points and counter-points.
Maria chuckles, "Oh you." She rubs the fox's head thoughtfully, "I don't know if you could…being a spiritual creature…"
"And what's that got to do with it?" Okori huffs, glaring at Maria's laughter. "I can learn something just as well as anyone! I can learn as easily as you can, or he can, or she can, or...or..." The fox stops in the middle of pointing accusingly into the crowd, mesmerized by the crystal in his paws. He gives in a shake, and the fact that nothing happens seems to confuse him more. "I don't see any little you's in here..." He muses, once again concentrating into the shimmering mental construct.
"It's in there…" Maria assures the fox with a smile, "Watching…with its beady little eyes…"
"The fox is the only creature present with beady little eyes." The crystal corrects flatly.
The fox blinks at the talking pyschic rock...and then his eyes narrow vindictively at it, realizing he's just been insulted. "I don't like you," he states simply, frowning.
Maria hesitates for a moment, then reaches for the crystal, "Eh... It was a bad idea..." She smiles, "I get annoyed enough with it...and its me."
Surprisingly, the fox edges away, watching Maria with a critical eye. "Why did you really want me to keep this?"
Maria blinks, looking at the fox with widened eyes, "Wha…what?"
The fox looks deep into her eyes...and his eyes widen as if he had been struck. He turns back to the crystal, looking into it once more. "I wanna keep it," he decides, his voice lacking the usual brevity and enthusiasm.
She stares at him for a long moment, then recovering from her shock shakes her head, "Why? Okori…it's alright…" She smiles reassuringly, holding her hand out and gesturing to him with a finger, "I thought it would be a good way not to lose track of you but I forgot just how obnoxious it was." She nods, "No worries."
Okori stares at her for a while, the fear he felt fading slowly as the psion's words sunk in. He nods, awkwardly, managing a detached "Okay," before he places the crystal in the palm of her hand. "Sorry about that...Can't remember what I was thinking about. Isn't that funny," he asks brightly, with a uneasy chuckle.
The psion slides the crystal away and rubs the kitsune's head affectionately with a smile, her eyes worried, "Well, if you ever remember, let me know." She waits there for a moment longer, then stands and nods, "Come on, let's go see if the Big Boss has anything for us to do."

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Fri Sep 28, 2007 12:42 pm
rgbrtgew

Posted by: Dark Maiden Fri Sep 28, 2007 4:07 pm
[Since the Amulet of Health and the Pink Ioun Stone both provide enhancement bonuses to Constitution, I'm going to sell the Amulet, unless someone really wants it. The same goes for Kethra's old Bracers of Armor +2. Oh, and I don't mean to sound like I'm whining, I'm just curious. Why did Maria get all of the psionic items?]
After Jessica has finished tending to those that are wounded the worst, she walks over to the Halfling mage. As she puts her hand on the other woman's shoulder, the skin still burned by the lightning turns its normal color again.
"Thank you."
"I was just doing my job..."
[Jessica uses Res (3 PP + 1 PP augmentation) on Merla, bringing her back up to full. She then uses Res (3 PP + 4 PP augmentation) on herself, bringing her back up to full also. I still need to know who's hurt, people. It's not my job to keep track.]

Posted by: BLT Fri Sep 28, 2007 4:41 pm
((Caius is L15! He gains a level in Wildrunner (his second). HP+13 = 135 BAB +1 = +15/+10/+5 Saves +1/+1/+0 = +15/+8/+8 Feat: Greater Two Weapon Fighting. Offhand attacks now +15/+10/+5
Class Abil: Scent: Caius is aware of enemies within 30' by his sense of smell. Increases to 60' downwind or 15' upwind.
Primal Scream: Free Action, Caius increases Dexterity by 6 and Strength by 2. This lasts for 3+Con (6) rounds and can be used 3+Cha(4) times per day.
Gear... forthcoming))

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Fri Sep 28, 2007 5:28 pm
((To clarify: We haven't left yet. I just posted the merchant bit in advance so that if people wished, they could buy/sell things. To answer your question, all the psionic items were offensive in nature save for the true seeing stone. The true seeing stone however, is more useful in a teleportating scouts' hands. None of those items are really going to be useful to a combat medic.))

Posted by: Alpha Fri Sep 28, 2007 5:31 pm

QUOTE
Tanis gained a level in Incantatar! (Warmage 7/Fatespinner 4, Incantatar 2 ECL 14) Max hit point increased by 7! Base attack bonus increased by 1! Will save increased by 1! Gained a skill point in Concentration, Intimidate, Knowledge (Arcana), Knowledge (Planes), Spellcraft
Gained one extra 5th and one extra 6th level casting per day.

QUOTE
Laeralas gains a level in Daggerspell Mage! (Rogue 2/Wizard 3/Daggerspell Mage 10) Max hit point increased by 9! Base attack bonus increased by 1! Reflex save increased by 1! Will save increased by 1!
Gained the class ability 'Daggerspell Flurry'
Gained a skill point in Knowledge [Arcana], Listen, Move Silently, Spellcraft, Spot, Tumble
Gained two skill points in Search
Laeralas learnt the new spells: Bolt 2, Disintegrate, Summon Monster VI
Laeralas gained one extra 5th level slot and one extra 6th level slot
Learnt the feat Persistent Spell

Posted by: FreedomJu Fri Sep 28, 2007 6:02 pm
"So how many kills didja get?" Sheila asks Melissa as the medics move around. Despite the command center being secure, the rest of the base had not been confirmed as such and so Melissa was still standing guard just in case. Her response is quick and to the point as always. [Four confirmed kills and two incapacitated during the taking of this facility.]
Sheila laughs. "Wow, I'm way ahead of you! I got fourteen from this place! Eight security guns, one cyber-Vrock, one Torch Eye, two Drowned Eye, an' two Cultists... And..." Sheila suddenly stops as the cheer drains from her face. "Uh... Ex... Excuse me for a minute." She then turns to leave.
While Melissa doesn't respond, she does however keep track to see where Shelia was going. The Spartan was puzzled why the female agent could have been cheerful for even a moment when allies had died or had been destroyed during this battle. Granted, most of them had somehow been revived so far, but it still didn't seem right for someone to be laughing after such happenings.

Posted by: Arcdragnbreth Fri Sep 28, 2007 6:14 pm
((Hold off on selling the Bracers; either Mahler or Jim might want to get a hold of them. You might also want to see if there's a rogue or other lower-hp person that might want the amulet (and doesn't have an amulet of something else). Also, Enrick took the rod and all of the potions.))

Posted by: Dark Maiden Fri Sep 28, 2007 7:26 pm
[If Enrick doesn't keep the Gloves of Dex, I'd like them for Kayla. That would boost her Dex to 27, and for a Rogue, that's always good.]

Posted by: FreedomJu Fri Sep 28, 2007 8:52 pm
eh

Posted by: Knight_019 Fri Sep 28, 2007 9:20 pm
((Merkass is willing to trade equipment around. Bracers of Armor are more useful to him because of his high dex. He will give the mithril chain shirt he has in exchange. He could also use gloves of dex. He's willing to give his Jade Ring, which is +2 to DEX and reroll any failed DEX rekated check 1/day in exchange for such.
If Merkass ends up getting the ring of resist +5 (part of the motive for ditching the +2 DEX ring), he has a vest of resistance +1 up for grabs.))

Posted by: Arcdragnbreth Fri Sep 28, 2007 10:39 pm
((Dibs on one of the Battle Suits for Gabe, and a flight suit for Ash if possible.))

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Fri Sep 28, 2007 10:46 pm

QUOTE (Arcdragnbreth @ Fri Sep 28, 2007 5:39 pm)
((Dibs on one of the Battle Suits for Gabe, and a flight suit for Ash if possible.))

((That stuff's all Zook's, and he's just gonna take them apart to see how they work if nobody asks for them IC. Even being HYPER GENIUS RATIONAL, he's not a mind-reader and he doesn't know how good their armor is))

Posted by: Kaihaku Sat Sep 29, 2007 1:12 am
((Here are my requested changes. Cedric will take the rod of absorption, he'll fill it up nice and fast then can hand out the charges as leader when needed. Coventry will take the boots of teleportation. Maria will pass on the jacket, opening the chance for someone else to claim it.))

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Sat Sep 29, 2007 3:55 am
((This happens during/after the leader meeting but before Sorel sees Gail)) Sorel looks at the dragonman, a mixture of emotions crossing his face, all of them negative. "He died. The hero is over there," he says, pointing. "Who are you?" "He died?" The dragonman mutters quietly, then shakes his head. "Why didn't the hero revive him?"
"Because I failed," Sorel says, bitterly. "Is there any possibility we could discuss this at a later time? I am tired, and hungry, and am not able to adequately explain my failure." Sorel snaps, before the realization strikes him again, more powerfully this time, and he stops. "I...I am sorry. I am not used to...nevermind. There is no excuse."
"Hungry? You?" The dragonman shakes his head with a laugh, "Rest then, old man, I'll find the answers myself."
Sorel looks at him. "I...do I know you?"
"Do any of us really know anyone?" The dragonman replies, walking off from the gathering of leaders and minions.
Sorel watches the dragonman depart. His eyes widen as he notices how familiar his clothing looks... He follows the dragonman, after asking the forgiveness of the other leaders. Sorel speaks in a rough, hoarse voice, loud enough to carry to the person he's following. "Alastor."
The dragonman waves a hand over his shoulder in acknowledgement, contiuning on towards the door the GDO team had used for their entrance.
Sorel keeps going, unwilling to be turned aside so easily. "Alastor," he says more firmly, after they have both gone down the corridor a ways.
The dragonman pauses, glancing back at the old man with a frown, "I thought you were tired and hungry?" He faces Sorel with a sigh, "What do you expect of me?"
Sorel stops. Part of him hadn't actually expected Coventry to stop, had instead hoped the doctor would lead him into the heart of the base and leave him there. "I... I do not know."
The dragonman stares at him for a long moment, then shakes his head in apparent disgust. He makes a gesture to the side and the scales molt away from him, the draconic features vanishing to reveal the face of the Doctor. He draws his glasses, opening them with a flick of the wrist and slides them on, "Neither do I." He then turns away, contiuning on into the fortress.
Sorel watches the figure retreat into the depths of Megiddo, without another word. When he is gone, the old man turns and walks slowly back towards the command center.
---
It doesn't take long for Gail to see the man Sorel mentioned. A short, rotund man wearing a billowing brown robe is tending to some injured. His waist is bound with a length of rope, and around his neck dangles a wooden symbol of the Light.
Spotting the humble friar, the paladin stops herself momenterily, habitually taking a deep breath and provoking another bout of painful hacking. Wiping away the vestiges of her mistake, she approaches him.
: "Excuse me, but are you the man who is cooking this feast I've heard about?"
Hal sends the last of the wounded on their way before turning to Gail. "As a matter of fact..." he stops, and looks at her carefully. "You're hurt," he says with a frown. "Come here." Hal lays his hands on her shoulders, chanting in Celestial. A warm light spreads over her, and most of her wounds vanish.
"There," he says, satisfied. "Yes, I'm the one planning the feast." He puffs out his chest, but his eyes shine with mirth. "I am Friar Harold Bernhart." He settles back down, and the effect is rather like watching something deflate. "But you can call me Brother Hal."
Gail starts to protest the healer's treatment, but the spell is already cast by the time she can organize what to say. Hal's spell has obvious effect, the most apparent being the ease that Gail's breath returns.
: "Thank you..." she whispers before he begins to introduce himself, grinning softly. "It's heartening to see such generousity. I'm sure everyone here appreciates what you're putting together; I think we all could use a celebration after this...experience."
Hal grins. "Think nothing of it. It really oughtn't be any trouble at all, and generosity is an important part of faith, I think. Generosity of resources as well as time."
: "That's a good philosophy. One to live by," Gail comments, unsure of what she should say. Should she agree? Explain her own beliefs? Talk about how others should take up such faith and practices? Her eyes close for a moment, a hand moving to her head. Why was this so difficult?
Hal tilts his head. "Something wrong, miss..." He frowns. "Don't believe I caught your name."
: "Oh," She says, bowing slightly. "Gail Haubrekt. I prefer Gail, though." She then places a smile on her face, not wanting to raise any more concern than she had from the kindly monk. "I'm just a little tired, that's all. It's nothing to be troubled over...I wanted to speak to you, but now that I'm here, I can't think of anything to say. It's...more than a little frustrating."
Hal smiles warmly. "You don't look like you can't think of anything to say. You look like you have a thousand things to say and don't know where to start or who to say them to."
Gail seems struck by the depth of so few words, nodding slightly afterwards in contemplation.
: "Yes...that's more honest. It's startling, how much you wish you could say, but being stopped from not finding the wordst..." Bright blue eyes move to Sorel, before flicking away to the ground, "...Or when those you want to speak to do not wish to hear it."
Hal follows Gail's gaze, but he doesn't say anything for a few moments. "This isn't really the best time for a conversation," he says. "But I'd like to speak to you again, if possible. Perhaps later tonight, during the feast?"
: "That sounds best. Perhaps then, I'll be more suited to converse." Gail then bow politely to Hal. "Thank you for your time."
"Time I've got," says Hal. "It was good to meet you, Gail."
Gail nods, smiling.
: "The feeling is mutual." She then bows once more, bringing a hand to her lips as she turns away and tries to find a place to rest her weary mind.

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Sat Sep 29, 2007 5:53 am
"... and that's all we were briefed on. We were told the general capabilities and information on these Strife Lords, but their actual destruction was tasked to elite H-K units on the Shadowblade. We were just their support," the soldier said to Jim, standing rigidly at attention.
"But you don't know what their plans were, or what exactly the Shadowblade was doing in pursuing them so relentlessly?" Jim asks.
"No, sir. Due to sensitivity of our missions, all information is on a need to know basis within the unit's hierarchy. Due to Shailtor's specialty, infiltration or psychic interrogation is always a danger," the soldier replies. "In fact, there was one incident a few years ago in which Shailtor was able to hack into the control grid for a sealing system we'd brought with us."
"Right... Well, I want you to go over your unit and their files. If anyone knows anything that might help us, I want full access to that information," Jim says. The soldier salutes.
"Yes sir!"
"That will be all. I have to go get the holy knight and his friend and take them to the silos..." Jim says, turning and looking down the hall. "Your men will dismantle them?"
"Yes sir... But... Permission to speak freely?"
"Permission granted," Jim said, turning back to the soldier.
"It seems like a waste, sir. I can see why you'd want the bigger nukes gone, but there's a few tactical warheads that we could repair here. We might even be able to convert them to clean warheads," the soldier says. Jim shakes his head.
"Not worth the risk... As you said, infiltration is a danger. I'd rather not have a wildcard capable of knocking out a few miles of terrain in the deck," Jim says. "Even the tactical ones aren't worth it. I have a lot of faith in your ability to defend this place, but if they press another all out attack like this last one..." Jim finishes by shaking his head again.
"As you say, sir."
"If that's all you're dismissed," Jim says with a nod. The soldier salutes again before walking off. Jim sighs and continues down the long, steel corridor of the Ancient base.
Jim walked for a long while before he heard the anguished sobs of someone very familiar to him.
"Sheila?" he asked, rounding a corner to see the agent huddled in a niche in the wall, sitting on the ground with her arms around her legs.
"Jim..." she said, weakly. "I... I killed him. The... The peasant. I didn't mean to..."
"Sheila," Jim said quietly, getting down on one knee. "You mean the cyborg in the labs?"
Sheila nods. "I... I used EMP rounds like ya said... But it didn't work an' he died..." Sheila sniffs. "That's not how it's s'posed to work y' know... I... I have to save them... I can't kill 'em."
"Sheila you were just following my orders," Jim says firmly. "It was my call and I ordered you to open up with EMP. It was a mistake, yes. It cost someone's life, yes. But that's my burden to bear, not yours..." Jim takes a deep breath, closing his eyes. "More than anyone else, it was that bitch AI's fault. It was she who made those poor people into tools of war, not us. We... We were just left to pick up the pieces as best we could." Jim sighs, looking at the ground. "We... We can't save everyone, Sheila."
Jim raises his head and look Sheila squarely in the eye. "We can't save everyone, but we can never stop trying to. Understand?"
Sheila nods, slowly.
"Good," Jim says, getting up. "Go rejoin the others, I'll be along in a few hours. There are matters here that still require my touch."
"K... 'Kay..." Sheila says, standing. She turns to leave, but then stops for a moment. "Thanks, Jim... I... Just thanks."
"Anytime," Jim says quietly as he walks away.
-------
A very long Gilliam post will go here within the next day or two.
-------
The Black Ops are a common sight as the soldiers and adventurers exit the ruins. They pile bodies for burning, set up defensive positions, and treat the wounded in various places all over the base and its grounds. As the grounds pass through the Garage on the way out, they see the tremendous bulk of the Thundershock supertank parked within a circle of machines and mechanics. Captain Mohimir sits atop his mighty vehicle as crewmen swarm around it like ants on a hill. He nods to the passing forces of the Rangers when they go by, then returns his gaze to the work at hand.
The sun is a welcome sight, to say the least. The forces of Cedric, Jim, Alexander, and Sorel march across the foothills, away from the ruined base and towards the far more hospitable welcome of the Elven Village. The quartet of troop columns, Cedric's and Jim's noticeably larger due to Zook's minions and the support troops under Jim's command, arrive at the Village at late afternoon.
The village is to say the least, surprised at the number of guests the druid and paladin bring with them... But complaints are minor. When they are told to prepare for a feast the village elder looks panicked at the notion of providing food for this many people... Then all worries fade when he is informed the meal is on Faralon.
With the promise of another feast, one not drawn from their own table, the elves and inhabitants of the village begin preparing the town once more.

Posted by: Kaihaku Sat Sep 29, 2007 5:57 am
Coventry spends a few hours exploring the ruins of the medical ward, intending to later visit the archives and arcane/supernatural lab. He finds the following... 3 Ancient medical textbooks 2 Ancient Medkits Ancient Genetics textbook
A few Audio logs from the Medical Level
...then after four hours of exploration, the black ops politely ask him to leave.
............................
“Excuse me, Cedric,” Kyoji says, walking up. "I heard that one of Alexander's group is preparing some sort of feast at the Fairy Woods?'
"Yes..." Cedric says quietly, standing where the others had left him.
"This... makes me think of something that may become a problem in the months to come," Kyoji says.
"Rations? ...or supplies in general?" Cedric questions wearily, "You realize that we have faced this problem before, with Zook's legion of followers."
"Yes, you are correct," Kyoji says. "However... Zook's legion is a mere fifty in number. I counted the troops here and listened in to determine the numbers that weren't present. All in all, the forces commanded by the four commanders come out to somewhere around one hundred fifty to two hundred."
"I understand the situation..." Cedric nods, "...and it is something I that intended to discuss with them. It would be an additional burden...if we make the decision to travel together." He sighs wearily, adding, "That was not your only reason for approaching me, was it?"
"You touch on the other reason," Kyoji says. "You do intend to ally with the forces here, correct?"
"This is not a single front war." Cedric replies quietly, "I intend to ally, certainly, but what the trials we face may be different."
"Of course," Kyoji says, nodding. "You propose simply to travel as we have, then? Keep in touch with the other groups how?"
"I propose nothing..." Cedric sighs, "...merely suggest a possible outcome of my next discussion with the other leaders." He looks at the ninja, "I am decisive when I must be, but in this situation, the decision is not for me alone to make."
"I am aware of this, however, I wonder as to your thoughts on the matter."
"I have given it little consideration..." Cedric shrugs, "Other matters are more pressing...for now."
"I have my own suggestion if you would take it into consideration," the ninja says quietly.
The paladin looks at the ninja, "When have I not? What is it?"
"Do you recall during our campaign on Cypress? You dubbed us the new 'Shining Force'?" Kyoji asks. "I've taken to doing research on the Shining Forces of the past... There is one thing that they all had that we do not."
"A swordsman for their leader?" Cedric replies with a defeated sigh, "I understand, I will step aside for Ashathel."
…
"…and what was that?" Cedric questions in reply.
"All of the Shining Forces of the past had a headquarters to operate from," Kyoji says. "With our recent logistics problems, it may be even more useful for us to have a base of operations. Considering the number of mages we have who can teleport us, the disadvantage of traveling to and from said base is nullified," Kyoji continues. "Also, Isyndel and Zook's researches suffer for lack of proper laboratory and workshop space."
"You have something in mind?" Cedric asks.
"No..." Kyoji says. "But it is a thought. Assuming the other teams have the same difficulties, and it sounds as though they might, having a central base would be a good idea, I think. It would also allow us to coordinate our efforts better, since we'd be constantly returning to a single place. Furthermore..."
"Derrik's appearances have always been erratic, so I do not know if this will work, but if we attain such a base, we might be able to convince the merchant to leave one of his helpers there as a liaison. This would give us ready access to his wares rather than having to rely on his recent unpredictability."
"Sounds like a good idea." Cedric replies with a nod, "I'll mention it to the others."
Kyoji bows and turns to leave.
Cedric nods and goes back to his pondering.
………………………………………..
"Oh there you are," Jim says, approaching Coventry. "When I couldn't find you after the battle I thought you might've broken ranks with us."
"Oh..."The Doctor pauses for a moment, "...guess I'm not use to being missed..." He nods back towards the fortress, "I was curious about my ancestors...and wanted to take a better look around." He taps a satchel hanging at his side, "I find some old medical books...but I really was hoping to find some historical information...even just a simple timeline..."
"What do you want to know?" Jim asks.
"Well, my medical and scientific knowledge has always been...limited... I'm hoping that these tomes can help with that." The Doctor replies quietly, his eyes troubled, "...but more so I want to understand the Ancients...not as lore but as a people...and what their experimentation was meant to do...and want it actually did..."
TheUnknownMarine: Kyoji would also mention to Cedric that with winter coming on, shelter and food will be at a premium soon enough.
Jim sighs. "I wish... No, I take that back, I can help you. I have access to a large amount of information. I don't have time now, but perhaps when things are organized I can arrange something."
"Now would be a bad time…" Coventry nods, adding quietly, "…but I would appreciate any help you could give me..."
"It's my job to help," Jim says with a chuckle. "You intend to stay with us, though? Now that we've contact with other groups that aren't as... eccentric as ours is, most would feel more comfortable with them."
"I..." The Doctor hesitates for a moment, troubled by some thought, before adding simply, "I don't know... I'll let you know when I do."
"All right. Thanks for your help so far," Jim says, turning to leave, then stopping and turning back. "You managed to save the life of one of my troops. That's a debt I can't soon repay."
The Doctor pauses for a moment, than looks into the distance, "There's no debt... No obligation..." He continues on in silence, seemingly lost in thought.
Jim smiles a little. "I suppose you're right... It's only right to save lives. Still, if not a debt, you have our gratitude."

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Sat Sep 29, 2007 7:21 am
"That's it, easy does it now," Hal says. A team of human tinkers are laying out long segmented wooden tables while a squad of gnomes tote benches of varying heights for varying guests. One of the wizards under Zook's command waves his hands with a flourish, and several expansive white linen tablecloths shoot from his sleeves, spreading neatly over the tables. Another kisses the tip of his finger, setting it ablaze with a tiny yet constant flame. This wizard sets about lighting scores of candles and lanterns, as well as the great cooking fires. A group of elven locals bring great cauldrons and flat cooking stones to set over the fire. A mere half hour's work and the set-up is done.
At this moment Derrik arrives with crates of fresh food and several massive containers of prepared dishes. He vanishes almost as suddenly as he arrived, citing pressing business elsewhere. Everyone looks expectantly at Hal, who reaches into his travelling bag and pulls out a large box made of polished teak, ornately carved with scenes of a woodland feast and set at the center with a brass lock. Hal reaches down the front of his robe and pulls out a tiny key on a chain. He unlocks the box and opens it, revealing row after row of meticulously organized tiny bottles and pouches. He sighs contentedly.
"Alright! Let's get to work!"
***
When you arrive for the feast, you're greeted by an overwhelming array of sights and smells. The clearing where the tables are set up seems much warmer than other parts of the forest, but not so warm as to be uncomfortable. Several long tables are set up in parallel rows, each laden with dishes. The tables are close enough together that passing dishes from table to table will not be a problem for seated guests, but it will still be possible to move between them.
A dizzying variety of food adorns the linen tablecloths. People familiar with dwarven cuisine recognize that people's own stout fare: heavy, filling food meant to restore your strength after a long day's work. Tureens of thick mountain stew steam lazily on every table, surrounded by trays of round, crusty rolls. Several enormous roasts trickle their juices onto their plates. And of course, scattered here and there are a few barrels of ale.
Those who favor the light, refreshing food of the elves find much to enjoy. Bowls of wild strawberries and clotted cream sit next to enormous autumn salads. Piled high are tiny tarts of flaky pastry stuffed with roasted apple and cinnamon. Bottles of elderberry wine and pitchers of rich honey mead stand nearby, ready to slake the thirsts of any who might want them.
Also featured are the wildly different foods from the many regions of the world.
You see examples of North Parmecian food, with its warm, subtle spices, including several varieties of beans and hot sipping broths.
South Parmecian food stands out with its vividly colored fruits and vegetables, each with its own distinctive flavor.
The food of Grans Island waters your eyes with its powerful peppers and chiles. The heat is almost overwhelming, but at the same time strangely appetizing.
Many seafood dishes, signatures of the many ports of the continent of Rune, stand at the ends of the table, where there is less heat, so they stay more fresh.
From Odegan are tropical fruits and vegetables, sharp and sour. In addition, many different kinds of wild game from pheasant to quail to rabbit, all steaming hot, load the crowded tables.
On a few scattered plates you see strange flat breads stuffed full of meat and vegetables, as well as a few more exotic kinds of seafood. Nearby are several bottles of warm spiced wine and gnomish firewhiskey. These are the dishes of Cypress, and the people who call that land home find much to remember here.
Haponese food is served on its unique square trays: balls of cooked rice and thick noodles in a dark, salty sauce with meat and fish.
From Thornwood you see what is commonly called "tavern fare". In large bowls, bite-sized pieces of meat cooked in oil. On trays, thinly sliced cold meat wedged between thick pieces of bread and cheese, and many flagons of dark foamy beer.
Aspinian food is simple and nutritious, the food of farmers. Thick steaks, fresh sweet corn, potatoes and milk are the dishes you see here.
Finally you see what can only be the legendary pies of Destonia. Huge, round pastries of every sweet and savory filling. The center table is dominated by a massive pie filled with potatoes and dark, rich gravy.
One by one the tables fill, but nobody eats. A hundred conversations continue unabated until Hal clears his throat, and the sounds begin to die down. He takes a seat at the middle of the table nearest the cooking area.
"And now, before we begin, I will say Grace." He bows his head.
"We thank you for the blessings you have given us, those we rejoice in and those whose power we don't yet know. We thank you for your gifts in a time of privation, for your riches in a time of want. We thank you for food in a world where many walk in hunger. We thank you for faith where many walk in fear." He pauses.
"We thank you for friends in a world where many walk alone. For these things we give you thanks. Amen."

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Sat Sep 29, 2007 7:13 pm
((This is time for RPing, if you were waiting for it to be stated.)) Sheila smiles and laughs in delight as she takes in the vast platters of food. : "Oooooh, food that ain't rations! Hahahaha... AWEsome!" Sheila laughs again as she starts piling food on her plate, and pouring ale in her mug. "Auto-detoxifiers, that's dwarven ale I see, so consider yourself switched off!"
Jim smiles and shakes his head as he takes a small portion from many of the different foods present, until his plate is full to the brim with samples from each. His gas mask and helmet are safely stowed away with the rest of his combat gear, leaving his face and head exposed for once.
"My thanks to the cooks," Jim says, raising his glass to Hal and those who helped.
Gilliam stands apart from the festivities, his particular circumstances not allowing him to enjoy the food everyone else was passing around. His gaze lingers on the stars above as he leans against the wooden wall of the village's tavern.

Posted by: FreedomJu Sat Sep 29, 2007 9:13 pm
Spartan-127 throughly examines the piles of food and ultimately selects a variety of meats, rolls, vegetables, fruit, seafood, and to drink she selects both milk and water over the variety of drinks that she assumed to be of the alcoholic variety. As Melissa finds a large rock near a table to sit and gets ready to begin her eating she notes that no one else has begun to consume their food. Knowing that had to be a reason for this, she too waits.
While the soldier waited for whatever ritual or procedure that called for everyone to not eat just yet to end she reached up and firmly grasped her helmet. A soft hissing noise could be heard as the armor's airtight seals were broken, allowing her to remove the helmet and revealing her shaved and extremely white head; it looked as if her skin had not been exposed to the sun in many years. Lacking any space on the table to place the helmet, she instead elected to balance it on her lap for the time being.
No sooner had she done this did Hal begin saying Grace. Melissa watched the man speak with a blank look on her face as she tried to understand the meaning of what was being said. She had no luck in that regard before Hal finished and everyone began to eat, so she shrugged it off as being unimportant to her and as such she started to eat her food.

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Sun Sep 30, 2007 12:49 am
The Zooklings chatter excitedly about the items their leader brought out from the depths of Megiddo. "That battle armor looks tougher than full plate! Imagine if we could reproduce it." "The flight suit could completely alter the way we look at light armor design. Tough, flexibile... it blows chain cloth out of the water!"
"I saw a Screamer Pistol at a tinker exhibition once. It blew out all the windows in the village square!"
"Forget all that, did you see the Hardsuit?"
The Zooklings silence themselves. A hushed awe passes among them.
"Armor tougher than a dragon's hide--"
"--mounted rocket launchers--"
"--you can take it anywhere--"
"--did you see that flamethrower?"
While the gossip resumes, a few eyes turn to Musril, who pretends not to notice while he busies himself with a slice of potato pie. In the next few moments, everyone but him stops eating and turns to look at him. The sound of his fork scraping against his plate carries over to the next table. Finally he looks up.
"What?"
"Well..."
"...have you talked to him?"
"I'd talk to him right away, if I were you."
"Yeah! You'll need all the practice you can get!"
Musril chokes on a bite of pie. "What?"
Two dozen tinkers stare at him incredulously.
"You're going to ride it, aren't you?"
"Into battle with Zook and Cedric and all the others?"
"You're going to be on the Shining Force!"
"I'm soooooo jealous!"
Musril looks out into the forest, in the direction of where the tinkers were camped and the armor was kept.
"Did he say something?"
The briefest of pauses.
"Well, no--"
"--you can tell by looking at him--"
"--see it in his eyes--"
"--obvious, really--"
"--so, you excited?"
Musril stands up. He looks slightly pale. "Excuse me." He makes his way over to where Zook is sitting, at the far end of the next table by Sheila and Jim. Musril taps on the gnome's shoulder.
"Can I talk to you?"
Zook looks up, his cheeks bulging with octopus and pork cracklings. "Cah ih way?"
"Well, it's just..." Musril rubs the back of his neck.
Zook jerks his head back towards the other tinkers. "Go ee. Wil alk la'er eheeway."
"Alright," Musril says after another moment. Then he turns and walks away.
Zook gulps down his mouthful of food, and looks over at Jim. "What was that all about?"
---
Sorel keeps his eyes fixed on Hal as he says grace. When he finishes, Sorel looks down at the food on his plate: a handful of berries and a piece of roasted fish. His stomach growls and he picks up one of the berries, squeezing it lightly between his fingers. He looks at it for a moment, almost as if he doesn't know what he's supposed to do with it. Then he takes a deep breath and pops it into his mouth. A few seconds later and he starts to chew. The sudden sweetness makes him wince, and he reaches for his glass of water. This ordeal continues for several more berries, until he gradually becomes more accustomed to eating again.
---
Telanna chats happily with some of the young girls from the village, although every once in a while the crowds part enough for her to glance at Sorel, who sits at the opposite corner of the clearing. She watches him struggle with his meal, and a fierce, petty satisfaction spikes up inside her. As the meal wears on, she begins to feel guilty about this feeling, although she isn't sure why. Pushing it out of her mind, she concentrates on her conversation, and on the plate of berries and sweets in front of her.
---
Hal nods indulgently, his mouth in various states of fullness as he modestly deflects the complements and thanks sent his way. Even when his mouth is full, he manages to speak perfectly. He reaches for his goblet of mead, and inclines his head to Gail, who sits a few places down the table.
"No more trouble breathing, I hope?"
---
Varro clomps around outside the periphery of the feast, taking it upon himself to patrol. A twig snaps not far from him, and he draws his sword, holding it defensively in front of him. A very terrified squirrel drops its armful of acorns and scampers up the nearest tree trunk.
A few minutes later Varro notices Gilliam alone in reflection. He walks over to him, sword away and hands dangling freely.
: "What mission were you given?"

Posted by: Aldur Sun Sep 30, 2007 1:05 am
Kria floats in the air, a little above the feasts, a platter in her hands, piled with berries and nuts, and she munches thoughtfully, her eyes darting from new person to new person, her eyes lingering on a few certain members, the shinier ones naturally.
**
Meanwhile Sulia is standing impassively in the shadows, muchly ignored, a simple glass of water in her hands, the Favoured Soul typically quiet.
**
Michael grins to himself, youthful eyes sparkling wide as he surveys the delights. Aspinian and Destonian foods were not new to the Warlock, instead he turned to the wonders of the other delights before him, Tucking into a large bowl of an Haponese cultural delicacy, turning to see what the others happened to be munching on.
**
Viletta sighed, shaking her head, grabbing something at random and moving away from the others, her democomp in hand, the hacker sitting under a tree, fiddling away at some program or other she was building.

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Sun Sep 30, 2007 2:52 am
"What was what about?" Jim asks Zook. Zook shrugs. "I don't know. He seemed upset about something. No idea what, or why." "You should probably speak with him as soon as you can. A leader must show that he cares about those under his command," Jim nods. Then he chuckles. "Then again, I'm sure you already knew that."
Zook shifts uncomfortably in his seat. "Yeah..." He changes the subject. "So where'd you find the rocket sword?"
"It was made for Varro by the Weapons Division. I don't know who built it precisely," Jim says, sipping a glass of elven wine. "It's supposed to be a minaturized version of a far larger sword they found wielded by a collosus."
Zook pops a grape into his mouth. He seems to be working something out in his head. After a moment he speaks up. "Just how many of you are there? How big is your organization?"
"The entire thing or the section present here on this world?" Jim asks.
"The entire thing," Zook says. "I've got a pretty good idea how many of you are here."
Jim shakes his head. "Well unfortunately I don't have a pretty good idea of how many there are of us that are not here..."
Zook tilts his head back and forth, as if there is something he wants to ask but he can't quite get it out. After a moment it stops. "So when was the last time you were home?"
Jim shrugs. "I don't really have a home per se. I have permanent quarters at a base, but I really wouldn't call that a home." Jim tilts his head. "Something bothering you?"
Zook opens his mouth to speak, but then he closes it and shakes his head. "It's nothing. Probably just me."
"All right," Jim says, cutting a piece of meat. "What about you?"
"What do you mean?"
"What about your home? It sounds like your group has been on the move for quite a while," Jim says, putting a piece of steak into his mouth.
"Oh," Zook says. "We've been together quite a while now. You sort of lose track of time when you don't have the luxury of watching it go by. Several months, at least. Probably close to a year." He looks down at his plate. "I'm from Cypress, which is you look at a world map, is right about in the middle. My family's all mountain gnomes, so that's what I'm used to. When I was little my parents sent me to live with my uncle, so I could learn engineering and study the Ancients. After that stopped, I just sat around, watching days go by, damn near going stir crazy, until I saw the summons to join this expedition."
"Heh..." Jim says. "You miss it much?"
"Sometimes," Zook says. "Mostly I miss my uncle. Went missing about a year before I left. He'd built this ornithopter and was testing it, but he ended up flying into a storm. Never saw him again." He shrugs. "Sometimes I miss not having to fight, too."
Jim smiles wistfully as he takes another sip of wine. "Yes... Peace can be a very precious thing."
"You can say that again," Zook says quietly. "You have to excuse me, though. I really do need to talk to him." He pushes himself away from the stool, and drops onto the ground -- his eyes barely rising over the tabletop. "Good talking to you."
"And to you. Good luck," Jim says, raising his glass to the gnome before taking another drink.
---
"Same mission I've always had," Gilliam says with a sigh. "Protect and defend."
Varro doesn't speak, but Gilliam can hear the faint whirring of something spinning. "What is your designation? What are you protecting and defending here?"
"My name is Gilliam," Gilliam says. "I'm protecting the world, I suppose. The Strife Lords seem intent on warping it into a mockery of everything pure."
Varro emits a dry, creaking sound intended to pass for a grunt of assent. "They will be destroyed," he states. "Their continued existence is a defamation of the Light itself."
"That I can easily agree on," Gilliam says.
Varro looks up at the stars Gilliam had been watching a moment before. "Were you expecting something?"
"What do you mean?" Gilliam asks.
"I watched you staring at these stellar patterns for several minutes. This seems impractical, if you are not expecting to see something in them."
"I was thinking," Gilliam says with a grumble.
"About the stars?" Varro asks.
"About a lot of things," Gilliam replies. "The stars are just something my eyes are drawn to at night."
Varro again lifts his head to the stars, as if he were considering Gilliam's words. "Impractical," he says after a moment's pause. "The stars are thousands of light-years away. You cannot reach or interact with them from your current position. To consider them for such time is highly inefficient."
"I think you need to upgrade your programs if you can't comprehend what I mean," Gilliam says with a sigh. "I am not considering the stars. I am looking at them while I think. A large difference."
Varro looks down at the cyborg. "My programs are 100% combat optimal."
"And are you in combat right now?" Gilliam asks.
Varro is silent for a moment. "Always," he says.
"Then your definition of combat is skewed," Gilliam says with a frustrated sigh. "You are currently not engaged in a fight. Therefore you are in combat. You might be in combat readiness..." Gilliam says as an afterthought. "But not combat."
"Your definition of combat is too narrow," Varro counters. "Until a threat is eradicated in entirety, it is foolish and dangerous to carry on as if it was." Varro begins to clomp away, to continue his patrol. "Perhaps your programming is inadequate for this task."
"Considering I don't have any programming, I fail to see how that would be," Gilliam remarks acidly.
---
Gail twists her head at Hal's question, swallowing a bite of fruit with a sip of white wine before responding. "No...I've been breathing easy ever since we left." Wishing to change the subject, she looks to the cornucopia of food scattered all over the many tables. "So much food, and so fresh...this must have cost a fortune..."
Hal nods. "It was quite expensive...somewhere around 4,000 gold, I think. But the bard stepped up and shouldered the cost." He smiles. "Light bless his generosity."
Gail can't help but feel guilty about the expense, staring down at her plate with a grimace. She perks up at the mention of who footed the bill, looking quizzically at the good friar. "Bard?" She scans up and down the clearing, before leaning to Hal. "Do you know who he is? I don't believe I've met him..."
Hal nods, pointing out Faralon. "That's him down there. Looks like he's getting ready to play something."
"Oh..." Gail says, an embarassed tinge on her cheeks as she recalls the elf as part of Cedric's group. "I..didn't realize he played music for a living. Then again, we met the day before the battle, and we haven't spoken personally."
Hal smiles a bit. "You don't seem to be in a very talkative state of mind, anyway." He scoots down a bit, moving to sit across from her, and noticing her holy symbol for the first time. "By the Light..." he says. "You didn't tell me you were called. Priestess or Paladin?"
Gail looks to the star around her neck, fingering the chain slightly. "I didn't think it mattered much..." Her eyes raise back to Hal as he takes his seat. "The latter. I...wasn't suited for the clergy."
Hal looks at Gail for a moment, but he merely smiles. "Yours is the more demanding task, I'd think. Priests, we get a little wiggle room when it comes to doubt, to insecurity. Paladins aren't so lucky. A paladin has to be absolutely certain that they are doing what they do because their god has willed them to do it. The tiniest bit of doubt in the god, or in your worthiness..." He shakes his head. "It can be paralyzing. I've known many paladins in my time. They've all told me that keeping the faith absolutely is the hardest part of what they've been called to do." Hal stops here, to take a bite of mountain stew.
Gail stares at Hal for moments, taking in all that he had said. The moments stretch on as she turns to her food, silent with contemplation. Soon, she presses the wine glass to her lips, only to find it empty. Setting it down, she closes her eyes, and turns back to the friar.
"When I was an initiate," she begins, speaking softly, "I always wondered what it would feel like to be a paladin. I had heard tales of the type of heroes that were called to duty, legendary people who knew no fear, who had a divine hand guiding them. I wanted to become like them as soon as I could...I can't recall how many times I passed out in training, trying to meet that goal. I dreamed about truly helping people; liberate the oppresed, help the helpless, make things right. I waited to feel what like for your life to have purpose...and to know it did."
"I'm still waiting."
Hal is silent while Gail speaks. When she finishes, her looks at her intently. "Have you ever felt like you've let somebody down, abandoned them at precisely the time you should have been there for them?"
Gail returns the stare, before her eyes wander to the table, the knight nodding solemnly.
Hal looks up at the sky, as if looking for a signal of some kind. "Would you like me to hear your confession?"
Her eyes close at the question, her answer almost lost against the crowded conversation around them. "Yes."
Hal says quietly, "Tomorrow at dawn. Before we ask the Light's blessing."
The woman nods again, her eyes remaining closed and her head bowed, as if praying. Soon, her eyes open, and she returns to the meal she had set before her.

Posted by: Kaihaku Sun Sep 30, 2007 4:12 am
A young woman wearing the robes of a priestess, steps lightly towards where the weary paladin rests, she speaks in a hesitant voice, "Excuse me... Are you Lady Haubrekt?" The silver-haired maiden, sitting underneath one of the strange pillars that decorated the room, looked up at the priestess, frowning. "Yes, I am...though I much prefer Gail, if that feels comfortable to you." A small golden star, the object of her previous focus, lies in the palm of her hand, the silver chain it would normally hang off of spilling onto the floor.
The priestess smiles kindly though her eyes are weary, looking down at the holy symbol, "I..." She hesitates for a moment, then switches to, "How are your wounds?" Her eyes trace over the holy knight, lagging on the bloodied and torn armor.
A white brow quirks as the woman stumbles over her first attempt, before she followed the priestess's eyes to the battered shell around her. "Better...Brother Hal staunched the only wound I had taken as soon as I began talking to him. You don't need to worry." Her eyes widen as she realizes something, shaking her head before continuing. "Excuse me for not asking earlier...but I don't believe I know your name."
"I'm Sophie Alfort...and while I don't think he would never admit to it, Hal is my mentor..." The priestess smiles slightly, holding a hand over her own holy symbol, and nodding to the ground, "Mind if I join you?"
"Of course not," Gail says with a smile, before a line of worry crosses her face. "Though...I might not by the best person to speak with, right now. I was tripping over my own tongue earlier."
"Today has been a draining one...for everyone..." The priestess says simply, brushing back her robes and sitting beside the weary holy knight with a tried sigh, "Though...perhaps more for you than most."
A harsh cough comes from Gail's lungs, more a sound of disbelief than of pain. "Hardly," she says bitterly, "Everything I was charged with doing has been done for me, and I...I wasn't even here when it was necessary." Finished, she looks to the cleric, sighing. "I'm sorry. I shouldn't be speaking about this. We've stopped the insidious plot to destroy the world, and now there are those here who can make sure these weapons can't be used again. That's good enough...isn't it?"
Sophie stares at the paladin in silence, astonishment written across her face, "You…you are the Lady Haubrekt? The Strife Slayer?" The young woman hesitates, her eyes searching the face of the holy knight, "I was told that, this very morning, by your own hand, you ended the ill of Xadoss!" Her voice grows, her eyes flashing with resolve, "I'm certain of it, your wounds speak of your struggle."
Gail watches Sophie's conviction with first dumb shock, then a flash of anger, then an exhausted grimace, finally resting her head down upon her propped arms, a drawn-out sigh the paladin's only words for a good while. Finally, her face rises, sapphire eyes glittering as she meets the priestess's own, her voice lacking any flames of conflict or anger, carrying simply the weight of her exhaustion. "Destroying Xadoss was the responsibility - and the reward - of everyone who fought him. To think that one single person turned the tide, that one person alone ended the fiend's terror...is to demean everyone who strived to end it. I did nothing that wasn't expected of me...in fact," she pauses, turning away from Sophie. "If I was worthy of the title, there would be another here with us."
"…but sometimes it is one person who turns the tide." Sophie replies softly, her eyes looking searchingly at the holy knight, "You are a chosen champion of the Light, you must not think so lowly of your contribution…" The priestess rests a hand on the paladin's shoulder reassuringly, "…my calling is lesser than your own but though less keen I also know the gnawing doubt…" An encouraging smile creeps across her face, "The Light would not have chosen you for a task that was beyond you…" She is silent for a moment, than adds quietly, "I think… I think the answer is faith, to trus…" She then laughs, "Ah, the arrogance, to think I can preach to you." She smiles, "Brother Hal could show you, his wisdom is the greatest I've seen." She shakes her head, "For what its worth, I see you as a beacon of hope in a dark time… Even if you were not solely responsible for overcoming the evil at hand, I think your role has merit greater than you imagine."
Waves of emotion pound over Gail as she sits, watching this young woman, even younger than herself, extoll virtues and effects she knew she did not possess. A beacon of hope...a champion of the Light...how long had it been since she had actually been those things? When had her comrades looked up to her as an example, as someone to follow? Chosen...Chosen; the cleric had said it like it was something to be proud of, to sing of jubilantly through the halls. Of course it was proud when one was actually such, when one filled the role she had been given...so what prevented her from doing so? Was it all the people she had not saved, their faces flashing before her eyes as another that needed aid did not receive it? Was it all the words she knew were left unsaid, all the things that could have raised her friends that she leaned on so frequently to a better place? Was it the expectations placed before her, things she knew she would never do, the 'fact' that she was supposed to be better? What was she waiting for, before she could become what she was told she was already?
She turned, absentmindedly, to the symbol in her hand. The tiny star hardly took up the center of her palm: it looked so delicate, she could crush it with ease. Yet, it meant so much to her...how had she use it, wore it over the years she had had it? Stowed away in her pack, hidden under tattered armor...almost as if she was afraid to show her faith to the world. Did she feel herself false, undeserving of its praise? Was she so ashamed and guilt-ridden, that she couldn't tell all that she believed in creation and its purpose? Remembering the clergywoman who sparked this train of thought, Gail started to Sophie, trying to think of something to say. Her mouth slightly...and then shut, unable to think. Again, she tried, and again, nothing came, forcing the knight to breathe and calm herself. When she turned to the priestess next, she spoke simply, mirroring the cleric's own speech; "Do not think yourself arrogant or unwise for offering aid. You may have a much larger impact than you realize." She then turned back to her holy star, watching the dim light reflect off its surface before laying it around her neck.
The priestess smiles uncertainly, but nods, "I hope so…" She then sighs, looking out into the room, "I pray that's the last of that sort of fighting that we'll have to do for awhile…"
Gail nods, eyes looking into the space between herself and the heart of darkness they conversed in. "I hope we'll have the time to feel safe, if only for a moment."
Sophie replies quietly, "I pray so..."
……………………
The Doctor sits reclined behind a bush, in a nook between two rustic buildings, intently studying a musty old tome.
“Alastor…” A voice calls out as someone begins pushing their way through the shrub.
The Doctor starts slightly, glancing up with a frown, “…Sophia?” He arches an eyebrow, “What do you want? …and how did you find me?”
”I have my ways…” The cleric remarks mysteriously as she reaches him, her bloodstained and torn robes of earlier replaced by the simple durable wool garments of her order, “What are you doing?”
“Just looking over some material I acquired in those ruins…” The Doctor replies with a glance at the book.
”You can re… Ok, this is really uncomfortable…” She frowns, pushing back a branch that had been poking her in the back and dropping to into a sitting position, “Ah, that’s better…” She turns back to the Doctor with interest, “You can read Ancient?”
“As of this level… I was going to role play out learning it, but I decided that I wanted to read one of my finds in this scene…” The Doctor chuckles, “Really though, I have that scholar’s touch spell, I don’t need to actually read them at all. ”
“I’ve been studying it on the side for awhile…” The Doctor replies, “I’m still pretty slow but with some work I can understand most things.”
”What kind of book is it?” Sophie asks.
“It’s about a science called Genetics…” The Doctor replies, explaining with a frown, “The Ancients had an incredible understanding of heredity.” He pauses for a moment troubled, “They could predict and…even manipulate what characteristics were passed on from generation to generation… I don’t mean by selective breeding either, I mean actually directly altering the basic…design, for lack of a better word, of a living creature.”
”Really?” Sophie frowns pondering this for a long moment, “You mean they could change…hair color, body type?”
“…and far, far more…” The Doctor nods with a frown, “But I’ve only just begun to read the volume, I’ve barely gotten past the introduction.”
“This is just like old times…” Sophie comments quietly, “You pouring over your books and explaining them to me.”
The Doctor looks down at the book silently.
“Are you hungry?” Sophie interjects suddenly.
“No… Not really...” The Doctor chuckles, holding up his hand on which rests a ring.
“A ring of sustenance…” Sophie examines the ring intently for a moment then shakes her head, “…and a shoddy one. What terrible craftsmanship, where did you pick that up?”
The Doctor looks at the ring with a frown, “Somewhere in Grans… I think…”
”Mine is much better…” Sophie sticks out her tongue as she holds up her hand, revealing an elegant ring of similar design but superior workmanship. After a moment she adds proudly, “I made it myself, it was my first magic ring...well, the first one that actually worked.”
The Doctor looks at the ring through his glasses and nods approvingly, “So…you’ve continued with that hobby…”
”Alastor…” The cleric sighs heavily, “Why did you have to leave?”
The Doctor does not reply, his face darkening as he looks down at the book with a frown.
”Ok, fine… Nevermind…” Sophie mutters heatedly with a wave of her hands, “Forget it…”
There is a long moment of silence.
”…I came to ask if you were coming to the feast tonight?” Sophie finally asks in a subdued voice, “Hal is putting a lot of work and money into it, you should come...”
“I wasn’t planning on it…” The Doctor says quietly then glances up with a sad smile, “But…I should probably stop avoiding the inevitable…”
”The inevitable?” Sophie repeats with a frown, “What’s that suppose to mean?”
“Nevermind…” The Doctor shakes his head dismissively, closing his book, “When should I make my appearance?”
”Um… Well, first, you are going to wear something else…right?” Sophie asks uncomfortably.
“What? Are you suggesting that burns and bloodstains aren’t in style?” The Doctor chuckles then sighs, “No, this is all I have…and I’ve been wearing it for a few days now…” He smiles ruefully, “I lost all my other clothing.”
”…that’s…not good…” Sophie moans.
“Exactly my reaction…” The Doctor smirks, “I wonder if fashion sense is genetic?”
”Ok.” Sophie states determinedly, “We have to act fast.”
“Wait… What?” The Doctor looks at her with a frown, “You don’t mean…”
”Oh, but I do…” Sophie nods firmly, “I’m not going to introduce you to Alex… Not like that…” She rubs her forehead, “This town has to have a seamstress or tailor…”
“There’s not even close to enough time for that.” He frowns, “…and I don’t have any money.”
”No, but maybe they’ll have something close enough to your size that I can alter…” Sophie starts to stand then grimaces as a branch gets caught in her hair, grumpily struggling to free it, “Consider it a late birthday present…”
The Doctor slides the book into the satchel, moving to untangle her hair from the branch with a frown, “So, you remembered.”
”Last month, right?” Sophie says as her hair is freed, pushing back another branch and slipping out along the building.
“Yeah…” The Doctor chuckles, watching her push her way through the shrub, after a moment he follows, nimbly sliding through with ease.
”Show off…” Sophie grumbles, looking around with a frown, “Now…if I were an elven seamstress…where would I hide?”
“Aha…” Coventry chuckles, “You gave up on elvish after all.”
”…so…is it right in front of me or something?” Sophie looks around the hidden village intently, struggling to recall anything from her hated elvish language lessons long ago.
The Doctor smiles, gesturing to a nearby building, “…well…not a seamstress but an outfitter, close enough?”
”…beggars can’t be choosers…” Sophie starts towards the building, “You’ll just have to risk being unfashionable…”
“Isn’t that worse than being scorched and covered in blood?”
………………………………………………………………………………………….
His face still haggard, the leader of the shining force of Cypress sits at the same table as the friar of the Light. He wears a simple dark blue coat embroidered with silver designs and the circlet atop his head. He bows his head respectively during the prayer. He looks at the vast assemblage of delicious food quietly, his trembling hand resting against a goblet of warmed spiced wine. After a moment, his scrutiny shifts from the food to watching the others at the table.
………………………………………………………………………………………….
”Where’s the cheese and pasta?” Maria bemoans sitting at a table with several other space people. “Well…” She takes a sip from her goblet, “…at least the wine is decent.”
“Wha’cha talking about?” The short red haired Riley exclaims as he shoves vast quantities of food into his mouth, “This is great!”
A tall attractive woman with sandy blond hair and green eyes eats slowly, enjoying each taste of the meal, though her eyes retain their alertness and are slightly troubled. I hope the leadership thought to assign a watch of some sort…
“If only you held your profession to the same standards as your dining fare…” A pale, distant young man with drab brown hair comments coldly, poking at a fish with his knife.
Maria glares at the man but makes no reply, taking another sip of wine.
A woman with shoulder length black hair stares at the food before her with a thoughtful frown. The Shadowblade…
“Hey Maria!” Riley calls out with his mouth have filled with food, gesturing to the Thornwood fare, “There’s some cheese.”
Maria grimaces, “That’s not cheese…”
Dorusan heartily samples the Aspinian and Odegan fare, a grin across his feline features.
A large muscular with black hair stares at the massive pies nearby with awe…or horror.
………………………………………………………………………………………….
“It’s not exactly my style…” The Doctor mutters looking down at the prissy elven garb with a sigh, “But…I guess it works in a pinch.” He leans against a wall outside of one of the delegated ‘barracks’.
”Stop complaining.” A voice snaps irately from inside the barracks, “
The Doctor shrugs with a smirk, ”Well…it isn’t like this is a Destonian ball…”
”…Alastor…I’m warning you…” The voice growls from inside, accompanied by sounds of shuffling.
The Doctor waits in silence.
The sounds of shuffling continue as the voice inside asks quietly, “Did you hear that Xadoss was slain?” After a moment, adding hopefully, “Maybe this war will be over soon.”
“We can hope …” The Doctor replies quietly with a troubled frown, “I wonder what it was like…I’ve never seen an archfiend.”
”Better not to know…” The voice replies softly, troubled by some thought, “All who faced him are worse for it, especially the Strife Slayer…” The voice trails off.
“The Strife Slayer?” The Doctor queries after a moment.
”A holy knight of the light, Lady Haubrekt, she dealt the final blow to the Lord of the Burning Fist.”
“…strife slayer…” The Doctor mouths dully, his face going ashen. Then an edge enters his voice, muttering to himself, “Yes…yes…that would be a fitting title…” He grinds his teeth, “A slayer of strife…”
”What? You need to stop mumbling…” The voice sounds from within, “I can’t hear you.”
The Doctor makes no reply for a moment then simply replies, “I was reflecting on what a fitting title it is.”
”You think so?” The voice sounds pleased, “I thought of it myself, I know I really shouldn’t be giving titles…but…” She chuckles, “Tomorrow, I’m going to send word of it to all of the Orders of the Light around* the world.”
*Am I allowed to say ‘around’ the world? I don’t have ranks in Knowledge(Ancients).
“Should cause quite a stir…” The Doctor replies with a hint of bitterness, “Good bragging rights against the other gods though. Very good.”
Something slams inside the barracks then there is silence. After a moment the voice replies firmly, “No. It will bring hope. Hope that is desperately needed in this dark time.”
The Doctors sighs heavily.
The shuffling inside begins again though it is a long moment before the voice finally speaks once more, “Alastor…do you have to be so negative all the time?”
“I don’t know anymore…” The Doctor mutters.
”What does that mean?”
“Nothing…”
The voice sighs, “Do you remember the last party we were at together?”
The Doctor rubs his forehead, frowning darkly, muttering in quiet reply, “I remember…”
”It wa…” The voice pauses as notes of music begin drifting from the clearing where the feast was held, “Oh no!” There is a slam and sounds of frantic shuffling from inside the barracks, “We’re late! They started already!”
The Doctor rubs his eyes, stepping away from the wall.
The door to barracks swings open with a bang, revealing a stunning sight. Sophie is wearing an elegant dress of light blue silk, delicately embroidered with gold thread. Beautiful jewelry adorns her…earrings, necklace, bracelets, and more.
Her eyes are panicked as she glances in the direction of the feast, “Ohhhh…I hate being late…”
“Wha…what are you wearing?!” The Doctor exclaims, looking at her in shock, “This is a victory meal for exhausted warriors not a court function!”
Sophie turns back to her brother, her eyes narrowing as she points at him threateningly, “Look.” Her voice bodes no argument, “I have marched through the wilderness for weeks…and just fought my way through hordes of undead and robots.” Her eyes snap, “I want to look beautiful…”
The Doctor meets the stern gaze unflinchingly then smiles reassuringly holding up his hands, “Then mission accomplished.” He nods to the feast, “Shall we?”
Sophie lets out a relieved sigh, “Yes…”
The two begin walking towards the feast.
“Though…” The Doctor comments after a few steps, “You don’t have to make excuses with me, which man are you trying to catch?”
Sophie glares at him, her delicate hands curling into fists.
“Hmmmmm….” The Doctor ponders, “Not Hal…wouldn’t be interested…”
“Alastor…” Sophie growls threatening.

Posted by: Dark Maiden Sun Sep 30, 2007 7:23 pm
Jessica arrives at the feast, wearing a simple white blouse and a dark blue pair of pants. The Psion takes a piece of what she thinks to be Sheppard’s pie, a slice of roast, potatoes, and corn. She pours herself a glass of milk and sits down at one of the tables.
Kayla steps into the clearing shortly after Jessica does. Even though she is normally clad in all black clothing that is not the case now. She is wearing an elegant silk chiffon dress. The dress is a dark shade of blue, similar to a lapis lazuli gem. The cut is modest, showing only a faint amount of cleavage. A slit up each side, up to about her knee, reveals black knee-high dress boots. As for jewelry, all she is wearing is a pair of rose earrings, and the locket her mother had given her. Kayla is almost immediately drawn to the line at the table where food from her homeland is. She takes some of each and puts it on her plate, mostly curry, and a few of the elves' pastries. The tiefling pours herself a glass of spiced wine and sits down.
Damas shows up, wearing an elegant and ornate blue robe. Much like Kayla had been drawn to the food from her homeland, he is mostly drawn to the food of his people. He takes some salad, a bowl of strawberries with crème, and some of the pastries, as well as some South Parmecian fruits and vegetables, and a little bit of rabbit. Damas pours himself a glass of elven wine and takes a seat.
Kethra shows up dressed in the same white dress she had worn at the last party, since she does not have anything else. She takes mostly Haponese food, as well as some of the more exotic seafood, and some Destonian pie. Kethra pours herself a glass of honey mead and sits down.
Merla shows up wearing the same white robe she was wearing earlier, but it is clean and once again whole. The Halfling stands in line.

Posted by: Aldur Sun Sep 30, 2007 7:46 pm
"Hey!" Sheila shouts at Kria. "Why ya floatin' up there?" "Why AREN'T you floating up here?" Kria asks in response, looking down at the female shouting at her. "Cause everyone an' the chairs are down HERE!" Sheila says. "I've heard of people looking down on others, but this is ridiculous!"
"I get to see better up here, and besides, I like, like heights, ya know?" Kria turns, studying the woman, descending lower to converse.
"Yeah, but that's gotta make gettin' more food a pain in th' rear, and ya can't talk to anyone if yer up there!" Sheila says. "What's the point of a big feast if no one talks?"
"Not really, it's a simple thing to just swoop, like yeah. And everyone seems to be chatting fine. I'm Kria Amelia Alexandria Amanda Ariel Krystalpaw by the way."
"Nice ta meetcha! Sheila Durance is my name!" Sheila says, extending a hand.
Kria descends to the ground, standing now, her wings dissipating. "Same. So like, whatcha doing here?"
"Eh? I'm here to eat!" Sheila says, blinking. "That's why everyone's here, I thought."
"I mean like HERE! Saving the world? Earning monies...like what's your reason?"
"Oh!" Sheila grins widely. "I am here... To kick ass... and chew bubblegum..." Sheila chuckles. "And maaaaan am I outta gum."
geddis the hero: Kria slaps Sheila. "That was a horrible reference."
TheUnknownMarine: "Not as bad as being out of character!" Sheila says, slapping Kria back.
geddis the hero: "Slut!" Kria cries, clitkicking Sheila
TheUnknownMarine: "Bitch!" Sheila shouts, cunt punting Kria
((ANYWAY))
"I'm here to kick the ass of any and all baddies I find!" Sheila says, thrusting a finger into the air.
Kria nods. "Ah ok. Another Paladin?"
"Wha? No," Sheila says wrinkling her nose. "I just like kicking ass, and it'd be wrong to kick the ass of something that didn't deserve it."
"Ah like, I totally see. Sounds good. I like hurting baddies."
"It's fun AND profitable!" Sheila says with a grin. Sheila tilts her head at the mass amounts of jewelry Kria wears. "Hey, what's with all the gold n' stuff? Is that all magic? Wow, that's gotta be like a hundred spells or somethin'!"
"Like...not all of it. Some is just because I like shiny things!" Kria smiles, brandishing her arm. "Being provocative is also fun."
"Provocative?" Sheila asks, frowning.
"Yeah, nothing more fun than annoying or interupting big dictator people. Jangling stuff does that AND looks fabulous!"
Sheila frowns. "Doesn't it also like, make you a huuuuge target? Or are you really good at dodging like I am?"
Kria giggled. "I'm also somewhat resistant. Fiendish heritage like, totally helps!"
"Fiendish? Ohhhh, sorry to hear that," Sheila says with a wince. "That's always a pain in the ass..."
"Like, not too bad. It helps when you encounter one, and he's all like JOIN ME! TOGETHER WE CA-" Kria then makes a blasting motion. "They love to talk, so they're easy to shoot!"
"Ooooh! I totally see how that can work!" Sheila says, grinning. "I love it when the villains make some stupid overblown speech an' then you can shoot 'em while they're too busy talkin!"
"Like, you really have to wonder why they love to blather on. Tanis is all like they're...um...err...Ego something. I dunno, I dislike big big words." Kria frowns confusedly and then snaps her fingers. "Oh! Egotistical! That's the word."
"Yeah!" Sheila says with a laugh. "Y'know, I've never met a humble villain!"
"Yeah, oh well. Sometimes the speeches are entertaining!"
"I guess," Sheila says with a nod. "They can get pretty repetitive though. They're almost all about how they'll crush you or rule the world or that sort of thing."
"That's fun! Guess the next line." Kria smirked, idly reaching for a mug of something, sipping at it. She blinked. "This is mead." And then proceeded to down the mug.
"Oh! Oh they have mead?! I love that stuff! Where is it, I missed it and went straight for the dwarf ale!" Sheila says, starting to frantically look amongst the vast collection of drinks
"It'd elvish innit? Kria pointed out the mead with ease, her keen eyesight assisting her. "There ya go."
"You're the best!" Sheila shouts, grabbing a mug of mead and begin to gulp it immediately.
Kria watches with interest, and giggles. "So they say. You have good taste! Like, wanna get drunk?"
"Again? Sure why not!" Sheila says with a laugh.

Posted by: FreedomJu Sun Sep 30, 2007 8:24 pm
Sheila winces as Melissa takes off her helment. "Man, Melissa, what happened to your hair?" Melissa tilts her head in puzzlement, not understanding the apparent importance of her being bald. "What do you mean? I have always kept my head shaved since I was issued my armor."
"I know ya did back before ya joined, but I figured it was a regulation or somethin'," Sheila says, biting off a hunk of mutton. "Ya know ya don't have ta keep it shaved, right?"
"I am aware, but hair produces a distracting feeling within the helmet. I find it perferable to have as few distractions as possible when in combat." The Spartan frowns. "I've seen too many Marines die because they were distracted in some way during a battle zone."
Sheila raises an eyebrow. "Your hair distracts you? I thought you Spartans could like, super concentrate or something."
"We were trained to push aside any and all feelings and sensations as needed, yes, but even so it is still perferable to minmize any form of distraction if possible." Melissa hesitates for a moment before continuing. "Not all of us did this however, it is a personal perference of mine."
"Oh, so some of you Spartans didn't shave your heads?" Sheila asks, taking a gulp of ale. "Have you ever tried combat with hair, though?"
"The Chief never did..." The Spartan takes a large bite out of an apple and chews on it while she pushes aside her sadness at losing her 'family'. Once she swallows the piece she answers Sheila's second question. "I used to keep my hair during the first few years of my career, but even then I kept it rather short."
"Well short hair's fine," Sheila says nodding. "I can see keeping it short... But bald? Wow! And with the skin you look like a zombie or somethin'."
The Spartan gives a barely noticeable shrug before she responds. "What did you expect? I've been all but living in this armor since I was fourteen."
"All the time? Dontcha ever take it off for training? Recreation time, even?" Sheila asks.
"I haven't had time for training since the war with the Covenant started and recreation isn't part of my duties. We get breaks for food and sleep, but that is it."
"No free time?" Sheila says, looking shocked. "How dya avoid going nuts?!"
A blink of the eyes was the Spartan's only hint at lack of comprehension. "What do you mean? I was trained to handle the stress of war for extended periods of time without rest since childhood. None of us never had a problem with doing nothing but fighting, for we were the hope of the UNSC."
Sheila just stares at the Spartan for a while. "Oh... Oh wow... It's worse than I thought."
Melissa keeps her face and voice carefully neutral. "What do you mean?"
"So that's all life is to you? Endless war?" Sheila asks. "That's... That's.. Wow... I mean, I love to fight, don't get me wrong, but to empty my life of nothing but fightin'..." Sheila shakes her head. "What are you going to do when you get vacation time?"
Vacation was an alien concecpt to the Spartan, she had to think about it. "I suppose I would train until the next time I am needed."
Sheila shakes her head. "You're going to give the company shrink a heart attack when she has to work with you... You do know the GDO forces us to take a vacation every once in a while, right?" Sheila asks.
Melissa is silent as Sheila says this, not entirely sure what to say in response.
After a long silence Sheila sighs. "D'ya know WHY they make us do it?"
"No."
"It's cuz the docs say that without regular breaks, troops can get a lil crazy," Sheila says, chomping down on an apple, chewing and swallowing. She begins to speak before her mouth is entirely empty again. "I know you're all like trained n' stuff, but yer still human even if you act like ya ain't. Yer not a weapon, 'lissa."
"Human or not, I will fulfill my orders at any cost to myself," the soldier says quietly. "My duty is all I have left now."
"So what'll you do if you get ordered to quit bein' mean to yourself?" Sheila asks, then she shakes her head. "Living just fer one thing... It... It doesn't seem right."
"My duty and the military are the only things I know about. I know full well that I could not function as a civilian, so what else can I do but be a soldier?"
"No, no, no," Sheila says, writhing in her chair with a frown. "Bein' a soldier doesn't mean bein' a robot! Don't you ever have any fun?"
"Fun? What's that?"
Sheila just stares at Melissa, jaw agape for a long time.
… >_>
"My entertainment is secondary to duty and my orders." The Spartan pauses as something occurs to her. "However, some of the activities we did could be viewed as a form of recreation during our early training, but for us they were exercises in sharpening our minds."
"Well nertz of course it's secondary, but it's still THERE!" Sheila says, throwing up her arms. "Gaaaah! Haven't you ever laughed? Or loved? Or anything like that? Or felt exhiliration as you climbed a mountain or skied down a slope?!"
By this point Melissa was starting to grow annoyed, though she kept it hidden. She couldn't understand why Sheila seemed unable to understand that with the death of her fellow Spartans and the near destruction of the UNSC, Melissa had nothing left but her duty. "Agent Durance, aside from the times we were on military operations, we were never permitted to leave the base we were stationed at the time. I don't think there were any soldiers who got time for recreation during the war."
"Well, I guess not in wartime, but you weren't always at war, were you?" Sheila asks, frowning.”
"We started our training at the age of six and begun combat operations just a few years later. When we were fourteen the war with the Covenant started and we had been fighting them for the last twenty-seven years until the GDO arrived." Melissa pauses briefly once more. "However, I had been in a coma for several years towards the end of the war."
Sheila is quiet for a while. "That... Wow. That really sucks." Sheila pounds her palm with her fist. "Well, that settles it. I'm gonna have to teach you how to have fun!"
The Spartan chews quietly on a piece of meat as she considers Sheila's declaration. She is naturally not fond of the idea, thinking it a distraction from her duties. However, Sheila seemed like she would be rather persistant in the idea and as such Melissa resigned herself to it rather than arguing against it and possibly making it worse. "Just don't get to carried away."
"Me? Carried away? How ridiculous, I don't get carried away," Sheila says with a laugh. "If ya like, consider this training on how to maintain mental well being!"
"Now then..." Sheila says, chewing on a turkey leg as she leans back. "What'll yer first assignment be..."
Melissa was completely caught by surprise as she never had heard of anything like this 'mental well being training' nor could she think of why she would need it. However she said nothing and continued to eat instead.
"All right," Sheila says with a grin. "I've got it. You can have your choice. Tonight you've got to..." Sheila says, counting off on her fingers. "Either get drunk, flirt with a cute guy you see, sing an' dance, or... Uh, actually I guess that's all. Oooh! Extra credit you can tell a good tale or play a game!"
Melissa didn't like any of the options given to her, simply because most of them were activities she had no knowledge of or would hamper her ability to think. Playing a game however seemed to be harmless, the Spartans had used various games such as chess as a form of mental exercise during their early training after all. "What kind of games were you thinking of?"
"Hmmm..." Sheila grins. "I've got it! Best of both world! A DRINKING game!"
Melissa is silent for a long moment, obviously not pleased with this surprise game. "I have to refuse to do that. I will not consume anything that would hinder my ability to think clearly."
"Ugh," Sheila says, rolling her eyes. "If ya don't build up a tolerance for minor toxins, how dya think yer gonna fare on the heavy stuff? More than that, how do you think you'll be able to keep your head if some mental power messes with your mind?" Sheila asks. "It takes practice ta learn how to think even when yer brain is fuzzy."
The Spartan frowns as she considers this information. In her universe mental powers didn't exist, but with all she had witnessed recently she had to expect such an attack to happen at some point. "Fine."
"Besides, this is the only time in prolly a while we can do this," Sheila says with a nod. "This is a secure area, so it'll be safe. Y' didn't think I'd do this otherwise, didja?"
Sheila grins. "Besides... I happen to know there exists a minor healing spell to swiftly get rid of alchohol n' stuff. If somethin' does happen, just grab a cleric and have 'em cast it on ya."
The fact that there was a way to supposedly to make someone sober quickly in case of attack was of some comfort to the soldier. "That is.... accecptable.”
"OK gentlemen..." Sheila says, slamming her hands down on the table to get everyone’s attention. "The name of the game...is Gold Drop!"
Looking on intently, Graigus nodded.
*Ombligo speaks up, quite loudly for his small body.* "Game??"
"The rules are simple... Everyone drinks a mug of ale, then steps 3 long steps back from the table and tries to chuck a coin in their mug. You make it in, you get a point. Then everyone walks back and takes another drink. Then you add on another step, etc. etc."
Ombligo: "Oh...I can't throw things. I guess I'm out." *The magic creature frowns, not that anyone can tell.*
Sheila grins. "First game will be to ten... No, fifteen points! If you throw up, you're out!"
"How do you win?" Graigus asked, intrigued.
"First to the points!" Sheila says. "Oh, I should've mentioned this..."
*Faralon listens to the rules, but continues to eat the food, not missing a crumb.*
Van listens with interest, obviously thinking of taking part.
Melissa however is still as the rock she is sitting on, but is carefully listening to what is being said.
"If you miss, you keep throwing until you get it in," Sheila states. "Basically it's speed, accuracy, and endurance!"
"Gentlemen!" Sheila points to a line of filled mugs. "Shall we begin?!"
"I'm ready!" Graigus said, nodding.
Van nods his acceptance of the rules. "Sounds good to me."
*Alexander approaches the gathered group, folding his arms as he watches the drinking game.*
"Didn't anyone ever tell you not to challenge a dwarf to a drinking game?" Graigus asked, grinning.
"Awright! Everyone lined up? Good! DRINK!" Sheila shouts grabbing up a mug of ale and speedily gulping it down, slamming it down again with a satisified sigh.
With lightning speed, the monk chugged the mug in a single swig, then stepped back quickly.
"Maybe I've more fortitude than I look," Sheila says with a wink and a grin.
Both Van and Melissa swiftly drink the contents of their mugs before stepping back. While Van somewhat enjoyed drinking ale like drinks, the Spartan found the flavor to be rather unpleasant.
With almost unnatural accuracy, the monk flipped the coin into the mug and winked back at the gunslinger.
Sheila dances away from the table and flips a coin in the mug, effortlessly. She then rushes towards the table to get another mug.
Stepping up to the table, the monk grabbed yet another mug and swallowed the contents effortlessly.
Neither Van or Melissa have any trouble tossing the coins into their mugs and they quickly went back for seconds.
Sheila chugs another mug, cries with delight, then somersaults back to throw another coin in the mug. “This game..." she says with a smile. "Is soooo much better when you've got the good stuff."
The alcohol has yet to affect either the guisarme warrior or Melissa as the down their second drinks and neither of them have any trouble tossing in their second coins either.
Sheila chugs another mug, then staggers back to toss another coin in the mug. It too, lands within the glass.
"Are you out of your own game already?" Graigus asked, chuckling as he flicked the coin towards the mug.
"Never!" Sheila snarls. "I HAVE JUST BEGUN TO DRINK!!!"
Melissa silently drains her next mug, doing her best to keep her of the encroaching effects of the ale.
Van however quickly empties his mug and smirks slightly as he starts to walk back for the coin toss.
*Faralon talks between chews.* "Van, I never knew you could hold your liquor."
Sheila flips another coin in as she dashes in for another mug.
Van grins as he gets another coin out. "Faralon, never think you know everything about someone."
Melissa’s coin toss is almost as accurate as her weapon fire and it easily flies into the mug.
Thrown off by the sudden yell, the monk's coin goes far wide, nearly blinding the bladesinger a few tables away. "Whoops... sorry," he said, making the metal coin in on the second attempt.
"Easy as pie! Oh, that reminds me... Gotta try some of that Destonia stuff later.." Sheila mutters as she cartwheels back and flips another coin out.
*Faralon winks in response.* "I'm sure Cedric would drink it down like water, though."
Winking, the monk turned around and flicked the coin over his shoulder, nodding with satisfaction as it landed perfectly.
"Is that so Faralon? We should test that sometime," Van responds.
Sheila laughs hysterically. "Who? Mr. Hammertime? Oh man, I ain't never seen a paladin get drunk!"
Now downing his fourth mug and showing no signs of stopping, the monk again flicked his coin towards the cup.
Sheila downs another mug and rolls back, tossing another coin into the mug almost haphazardly.
The coin barely had time to sink into the cup before Graigus went for his fifth drink.
The coin spins around the rim of the mug, looking as if it might just fall off. "GO IN!!!" Sheila shouts, waving her arms. The coin obeys.
While Melissa has yet to be affected, Van however starts to feel the drink clouding his mind as he walks back for the coin toss.
Landing yet another coin in the mug, Graigus went for his sixth drink.
"Oww!" *Ombligo yelps as a coin hits his tentacle.*
Sheila drinks another, her sixth as she fishes out another coin for the toss.
Ombligo: "Forget you guys! I'm going to go find Tanis." *With that, the magic creature floats away.*
"Sorry... Uhhh... Mr... Floaty... Jellyfish... thing!" Sheila calls. "It was an accident!"
Shaking the cobwebs free of his head, the monk looks at the mug and mutters "Good stuff."
The results for the Van are the opposite from last time. Van’s condition doesn’t get any worse, but Melissa blinks several times as she feels her mind fogging up with the effects of the drink.
Sheila's coin goes in, but as she drains her seventh glass, she tips over and hits the ground, staring upward with a sour face.
Ignoring the effects of the drink, Graigus flicks the coin in and downs yet another mug.
Van grins at his continued success, the grin more carefree than he has had in a long time.
Melissa however was finding that she had to concentrate more to ensure that the coin flew into the mug like she wanted.
"Come on, Sheila... I'm catching up!" Graigus said, flicking the coin in before offering her a hand.
*Faralon begins to laugh.* "You lot are going to be comatose before half the party gets any liquor."
"Goddammn it..." Sheila mutters, angrily. "I... I must concede defeat this round. DEFEATED!!!!" Sheila roars, flailing her arms wildly. "Oooooh, the shame! Oh, the AGONY!"
"Guess that means I'm a shoe-in," the monk grinned.
Luckily for them, Van and Melissa have no problems with their fifth drinks and they are able to toss their coins in easily enough.
"So I guess I'll hit the reset butt'n..." Sheila mutters as she closes her eyes and lies still for a while.
Their sixth round of drinking and coin tossing is much the same as the last for the Spartan and the guisarme user, the drinks providing no additional trouble just yet.
Graigus' eight drink poses no problem, though he just barely makes the coin over the lip of the mug.
Melissa frowns as she drinks her 7th mug as she could feel her mind growing sluggish and her balance growing unsteady. She is however able to get in the coin with no trouble.
For Van it was rather obvious that the ale was starting to really get to him as he was barely able to get the coin in this time around.
"Still going," the monk declared proudly, his 9th mug going down easy - almost as easily as the coin made it in.
As Van finishes his 8th drink his head starts to swim much worse and he finds himself unable to stay standing without leaning against the table.
Melissa suffers from a similar situation as Van once she starts to walk away from the table. She stops where she is and her eyes half close as she concentration on staying upright.
Takiing an extra step back, Graigus flicked the coin into the tenth mug, nodding with satisfaction.
"I think that makes me the winner!" Graigus said.
"Is everyone ready for the next round?" he asked.
*Alexander looks at Graigus, squinting his eyes.* "I swear, I thought his face was red before this even began."
"Next round?" Sheila cries, eyes shooting open. She flips to a standing position. "You bet!"
"Melissa! How'd ya feel?" Sheila asks, clapping the Spartan on the shoulders.
Melissa’s concentration failed to keep her from suddenly losing her balance and she swiftly found herself falling backwards. Her impact with the ground gave off a rather loud thud that only a half-ton of weight hitting soft dirt could bring. Not entirely sure what is going on, the Spartan just lays there with her eyes closed
*Faralon raises his hand.* "Wait, you're going for a second round?"
Sheila bursts out laughing and taps the Spartan on teh shoulder. "Come on, 'lissa! Get up!"
"Noooo...." The Spartan manages to slur out.
"Shouldn't we call someone over?" Graigus asked. Catching the eye of the woren, he beckoned for the templar to come over.
"What is... oh," Pantherath said, shaking his head. "This again."
"Aw come on, get up!" Sheila says, dragging on the Spartan's arm. "Yer jes' drunk! Get up! Come on, I'll help ya walk it off!"
For his part Van managed to stay on his feet, but only by leaning against the table. It was obvious that he wouldn't be able to walk on his own right now.
"Nooooo, Pantherath, you can't!" Sheila moans. "She's gotta learn what being drunk's like! Gotta figure out how to function in it! Melissa, howdya feel?"
Van blinks at this and takes a few moments to put two and two together and eventually speaks to Pantherath. "You can cure drunky?"
"It is her decision, not yours," the woren said, "but I will allow her a moment to consider it. And yes... I can cure "drunky," as you put it."
"Not her! For me damnit!" Van cries, obviously not liking the fact he couldn't really move in his current condition.
"This is too easy," Graigus said. "Maybe I'll try it later, after I've had a couple more drinks."
"Later!" he called, heading for other parts of the feast.
Sheila giggles a little. "Anyway, this is Melissa's first drinking game! Let's all give her a round of applause! Eight friggin' rounds! You beat me! That's spectacular for a begginer!" Sheila laughs, clapping.
At Sheila's constant prodding, or at least it seemed constant to the drunk super-soldier, Melissa swiftly yanked out her old UNSC handgun for intimidation purposes. However, in her drunken state she somehow managed to toggle the clip release, causing the clip to land squarely on her chest. With a sigh she let her arm fall to the ground, losing her will to do anything else about her current state.
"Whoa, whoa, what's with the runnin' and gunnin?" Sheila asks, holding her hands up. "Whatcha think this is, a shootin' gallery?"
The Spartan is still, apparently sleeping as she lays there.
*Alex glares at the two as he approaches them.* "That looks similar to weapons you were carrying earlier. Why is she drinking if she's carrying a weapon?"
"G'damn..." Sheila mutters, grabbing the pistol from Melissa. "You'll get this back tommorrow."
"What?" Sheila says. "The monk still had his staff with him. Van had that pigsticker... Everyone's got their weapons. Weeeeell..." Sheila says. "Not the heavy stuff. Jim doesn't have his GSAW on him... But we've all got the minor stuff."
Alexander: "But I know, to a degree, what those weapons are capable of. I don't know what yours can do, and I feel a little uncomfortable with someone in her condition having one."
Faralon: "Which is why she doesn't have it anymore."
"I took it away!" Sheila frowns.
*Alexander sighs.* "Sorry, I just mean for future...nevermind. There's no problem, so I guess I have no reason to get worked up. Sorry."
"Melissa, get up, I know you're not sleeping. Say something at least," Sheila says, nudging the prone Spartan with a toe.
The Spartan simply rolls away from Sheila while muttering something that vaugely like 'leave me alone'.
"Awww, what'd I do?" Sheila says. "Why ya mad at me?"
"Maybe she just wants to nappy?" Van manages to slur out as he slumps into a seat.
"Noooo!" Sheila moans. "That's a terrible idea! Don't fall asleep! Come on, get up..." Sheila says, pulling on Melissa's arm. "If you fall asleep now, you WILL regret it... You need to drink some water.." Sheila says, looking over to Van and frowning. "Both of you need water, haven't ya ever been drunk before?!"
*Faralon speaks as he reaches over the table, setting down a couple of glasses of water.* "Yeah, here's some water. I've got plenty to drink already."
Van gives a wide grin. "I have! Not often though... ducks later."
Van glady accepts a glass of water and sets to work drinking it.
"Oy! Melissa! Here, gimme that," Sheila says, taking a glass from Faralon and handing it down to Melissa. "Drink this, you'll feel better."
Relying on sound rather than her eyes, Melissa reaches for and grabs the glass with an unsteady hand. However, in her drunken state she is in no condition to control her strength and ends up accidently crushing it.
Sheila winces. "Errr... I'll go get another one. Don' worry, I'll like, hold it for you."
Sheila dashes off, returning in a few seconds with another glass, which she presses to Melissa's lips. "C'mon, drink up."
Melissa mutters something as Sheila does this, but as the water starts to enter her mouth she ends up switching from talking to swallowing the cool liquid in reflex.
"That better?" Sheila asks, taking the glass away when Melissa's finished. "Drinkin' lotsa water really helps to deal with alcohol. Sorry about this..." Sheila frowns.
"I should've had you start small, not run right into a drinking game with a dwarf," Sheila shakes her head. "Wasn't thinking."
"Anyway, right now you're really really drunk, so if you can figger out a way to keep your head in th' state you are now, you'll go a long way," Sheila nods. "How ya feel?"
"Thinky? Who needs thinkyness?" Van asks from where he sits as he finishes a second glass of water.
"Horrible..." The bald woman finally manages to get out.
"Yeah... Yeah, you drank too much. There's a fine balance when th' stuff makes you feel good..." Sheila shakes her head. "But if you drink too much... Well you see what happens. You drank, what, eight glasses? We'll stop at four next time and let you get used to it before we do anything worse," Sheila says with a sigh.
A groan is Melissa's only response.
"More water?"
Another groan from the female soldier seemed to the closest thing to agreement she could muster.
"Is it really that bad?" Sheila asks. "I mean, we've both been wounded hundreds of times. I wouldn't think a thing like drunkeness would faze you as much."
Eventually Melissa manages to slur out an answer. "...Worse than painkillers."
Sheila frowns. "Before the medics come though... Before the painkillers. It don't matter I s'pose," Sheila says shaking her head.
Sheila sighs. "Maybe we should start over... Get Panth to cast his spell, then drink four apiece."
"Again!" Van yells, clearly ready to make an ass out of himself again.
"That outta ease you into it so you can learn howta cope but not go shooty nuts," Sheila says. She turns to Van. "Again what?"
"Game again!" Was the slurred response from the guisarme user.
"Maybe later... I saw a dwarf paladin guy earlier, maybe he'll want a game in a few,"
"Well.. How'd it taste at least? Didn't it taste goood?"
A slow negative shake of the Spartan's head was the only response she felt like giving at the moment.
"You didn't like it?! It was dwarven ale! The best of the... Bah..." Sheila shakes her head. "I guess you're like Jim, a wine drinker. I'll grab some of the elf stuff and you can try that."
"You want me to get Panth and the cure spell?" Sheila asks Melissa.
"...Affirmative," she says slowly.
At the mention of curing Van perks up slightly. "Me too! Cure drunky drunk!"
Sheila sighs, getting up. "Just say yes, like a normal person, sheesh!"
After a few minutes, Sheila gets Pantherath, who promptly cures the pair of drunkeness.
As Pantherath leaves, Sheila turns to them. "Feeling better?"

Posted by: Dark Maiden Sun Sep 30, 2007 9:50 pm
Aurik eyes over the enormous amount of food in front of him. If the dinner they had been served before was extravagant, this was definitely on par and more diverse. He eyes up dishes he had never seen before. In his haste to grab a smattering of everything he can lay his eyes on and sample the cuisines of the world, Aurik manages to step on someone's foot, and nearly trips. Recoving his balance, he looks to his side, then finds he has to look down to see who he inconvenienced. "I'm sorry, Miss. With all the time I spend around Zook I should have watched better for the small people. Reminds me of one of the first times I met Zook, actually... though you are far prettier, I must say."
Merla is standing in line for some food when someone steps on her foot. "Ouch!" She looks up to see who did it, and of course sees Aurik looking down at her. The red-haired mage's face turns a dark shade of pink, and she tries to hide her embarrassment. "This happens to me often; don't worry about it."
Aurik shakes his head. "I would hardly think so!" Aurik continues to move down the food line with the rest of the people. "I apologize for my carelessness. My name is Aurik."
"Well met Aurik," Merla says with a slight hint of a smile. "My name is Merla."
Aurik's mouth line relaxes some, since his conversation partner is more lighthearted than he might have expected. "Where are you from? I recall seeing you briefly at the end of the battle once we amassed on Fasher."
Merla sighs. "I come from Hassan."
"Hassan... a pretty place for a pretty young lady to hail from. I was through there once, though not exactly on the best of circumstances. I'm from Cypress, which is a ways away from Hassan; though I can't say I have much of a home outside Volcanon's temples. You are with Alexander's force, I presume?"
"You flatter me," Merla says shyly. After a few long moments, she answers his question. "Yes, I am with Alex."
"Flattery? Possibly, though I prefer to think I speak the truth as often as possible." Aurik grins as he grabs some Haponese food. "Anything you recommend? I must admit that while I've traveled over most of the world at this point, I don't get out much."
"The fruits and vegetables from my homeland are good." Merla looks around and spots the pastries. "Oh, and these are great too!" she says excitedly as she reaches for some.
"Ah, they certainly look good," Aurik remarks, taking a sample of each. "I'll have to thank you once I find out I like them." Aurik glances down at his heaping plate of food. "Oh... it looks like I've taken my share... and possibly then some. I should grab a beverage and have a seat."
Merla chuckles. "No need to be ashamed Aurik, this is a feast after all." One beverage in particular catches the Halfling’s eye. "Ooh, gnome fire whiskey. It's been years since I've had any of this."
Aurik gives the Halfling a strange look. "Fire whiskey? Not the beverage I would have chosen."
Merla tilts her head to the side. "What...? Even we mages like to have a drink every once in a while."
"No no, it's not that. It's just very harsh." Aurik grabs a glass. "As much as I enjoy sitting down with a good drink, and sometimes the hard ones feel the best, there is something about Elven wine that always hits the spot."
"I rather enjoy elven wine myself, but I happen to be in the mood for something a bit stronger tonight." Merla gets herself some of the whiskey and starts to walk towards a table.
"Understandable. It has certainly been a rough day. I will leave you to your food and friends, as I have my own to catch up with and attend to, as I'm sure you do as well." Aurik nods to Merla. "I hope to see you soon, and hopefully with a better introduction."
"I look forward to talking with you again Aurik." Merla smiles slightly.
-----
"Yo Jess!" Sheila says, collapsing into a chair next to Jessica. "Isn't this shindig great? I haven't seen this much free booze since that party on Seprus Prime!"
"Yeah, I guess so," the medic replies, staring at her plate.
"What's wrong?" Sheila says, frowning. "You're like, all sad and stuff."
Jessica sighs. "Well...it's just..." The Psion pauses for a few long moments before she continues. "I screwed up... I screwed up bad," she says sadly.
"Oh man," Sheila says, with a sigh, grabbing a meat pie and stuffing it in her mouth, still speaking through the food. "Iz diz abot da baddo?"
"Yeah," Jessica says.
"Look, it's like what Jim always tells me," Sheila says, waving a finger in the air. "You can't let yer losses consume ya. Ya gotta learn what ya can from them and move on."
"If it weren't for that doctor..." Jessica shakes her head. "No, I guess you're right... I just have to make sure it never happens again."
"Right!" Sheila says with a nod. "In the meantime, enjoy yourself! Drink! Eat! Talk! Sing! Dance! Be merry and all that jazz! It IS a feast!"
Jessica chuckles. "I'll be back in a minute." The Psion stands up and walks off. She comes back about five minutes later with a mug of ale.
"There ya go! Laughin' an' smilin' an' everything!" Sheila says with a grin. "That's the way!"
"Now find someone an' talk to them. Meet people! Have fun! I so command it!" Sheila says, clapping her hands together.
Jessica takes a sip of her ale and grins. "Yeah, I suppose it would be better to get to know some of these people." The medic's gaze turns to the red-haired tiefling for a moment. "How in the hell can she eat all of that and not even flinch?"
Sheila blinks. "It's just spicy food... Haven't you ever had any?"
"I had curry once, but it was a little bit too spicy."
Sheila shrugs. "Takes all kinds, I guess."
"Maybe she just likes spicy food..." Jessica shrugs.
"Well, duh!" Sheila says with a laugh. "Why else would she be eating it?"
Kayla starts laughing, which may or may not come as a surprise. Then she goes right back to eating.
Jessica slaps herself in the head.
Sheila laughs. "Hey, don't look now, I think y'might be talkin' a bit loud."]
"I guess so." Jessica lifts up her mug and downs about half of the drink in one gulp.
Sheila chuckles. "Wow... Didn't figure you for much of a drinker... I'm impressed."
"Well, it is feast. The worst thing that can happen is me getting drunk and waking up with a hangover."
"An' Panth can cure that with a spell!" Sheila says with a laugh. She pauses. "Come ta think of it, you can cure it with a pill!"
Jessica chuckles. "Well, I'm gonna finish up my food before it gets cold."
"'Kay! I'm gonna go visit some of the others! Seriously though, talk with people. This seems like a real nice bunch we've fallen in with this time!"
"Sure thing Sheila. Later."

Posted by: Aldur Sun Sep 30, 2007 10:59 pm
Kria grinned at this, taking another mug. "I have to warn you, I'm a good drinker." Sheila grins, taking another as well. "I have to warn you, so am I. There was a drinking game earlier, why didn't you join in?" "Spaced out? I never noticed." Kria shrugged. "It's a waste of alcohol anyway
"Blasphemy!" Sheila says, drinking her mug. "Nothing that involves drinking alcohol is a waste!"
"Alcohol is to be enjoyed, sometimes necked, but never made light of." Kria gulps amiably.
"Ah, but..." Sheila says, taking another mug and slowly drinking it, savoring each mouthful of the honey-made alcohol. "It's not making light of it... If it's TRAINING!"
"Training? Like, wha?" Kria raises a delicate eyebrow in query
Sheila snorts a little with laughter. "OK, so get this. There's this one girl in my unit, right? She's like a robot, never shows emotion, never has any fun, so I managed to get her to start drinking by equating drinking with training."
"Drinking can train ya to function even when distracted or when your mind is fuzzy. So I said that if she wanted to be able to shrug off mental attacks like that telepathy dude was throwing around, she should get drunk and then learn how to deal with it."
"Wow, that's like, sneaky! Can she hold her drink?"
"She chugged eight mugs of the strong dwarf ale before falling over," Sheila nods proudly. Then she winces. "Yeah... I prolly should've like, started her off on the elven wine."
"May have been a better idea, but that stuff like, sucks." Kria winces, making a face
Sheila shrugs. "It's OK. Some of the wine's neat with dessert n' stuff as a finisher."
"Meh." Kria shrugs, not into wine very much
"Well, takes all kinds," Sheila says, finishing her mug and reaching for another. She winces, then frowns. "At this rate I'm going to drink everything before the others get any... I might have to slow it down a tad."
"Wow, are you like Gilliam then? Only inside out? Because you've had lots!" Kria looks at Sheila with respect for her drinking abilities
"Gil's the full conversion cyborg, right?" Sheila says with a laugh. "Whatcha mean inside out?"
"Well, he's a robot outside and a human inside, so maybe you're the reverse...and can drink lots!"
"Naw, my bot parts and human parts are like, interwoven and merged," Sheila shakes her head. "No clear division."
"Like, what's wrong with being like...not metally? Sheesh!" Kria rolled her eyes.
"Whatcha mean?" Sheila frowns. "Nothin' wrong with being not metally."
"Everyone seems to want all this metal and stuff. Like Fasher, Gilliam and all you lot." She frowned. "Doesn't seem to make life that much easier."
"Explain," Sheila says, taking a sip of her mead.
"Simple. You build big things to help people and then other people build things to destroy worlds. Doesn't really seem like it has that much of a point."
"What? Building stuff?" Sheila says, wrinkling her nose. "Of course buildin' stuff has a point. An' so does helpin' people!"
geddis the hero: "Eh, nevermind. I dislike all this tech. Only ever brings trouble."
"That's silly! It's technology that gives people the power to stave off disease, save lives, an' live better!" Sheila says, shaking her head.
Kria giggled. "Dunno why I raised it. You have to think that. You're made out of it."
"Hey, I'm not made out of it," Sheila says, frowning. "I think how I want to think."
"Well yeah, you've always been surrounded by it, and brought up with it, so it's all good to you. You see the bad side as well, but like, you disregard it, because you like the good side." Kria sighed, continuing to drink. "Disease? The body adapts...building? Can be done without such things. And we don't need to worry about undead mage things threatening to destroy the continent with such leftovers."
"Oh come on," Sheila says, rolling her eyes. "Everything has a bad side. An' there are plenty of things that can blow up the world without tech. If the Ancients didn't have tech, they wouldn't have been able to fight off the demon invasion!"
"You like, don't see it? All this bother, all this trouble...it's all because people tried to act as the gods, getting too high. Like, nothing of this would be happening without tech."
"What's wrong with acting like the gods?" Sheila asks. "It's not like they run things any better most of the time."
"That's the point of mortal existence!" Sheila says with belief. "Ta grow an' mature an' better ourselves!"
"They tend to have a stronger will. Most mortals run away and blame everyone else." She shakes her head. "That is where the problem is. Like, people are too weak for such things. At present anyway."
Sheila shakes her head. "I've seen some weak gods too. They're like, mortals with a lotta power."
"Dunno about you lot, but here on RUne? And this world? All this tech was beyond all of us. And still is. Now people will play with things better left alone."
Kria shrugged. "Not saying don't touch it ever again but like, currently I'd say it's a horrible idea."
Sheila shakes her head. "I disagree... Really, it seems to me that magic is yer main problem what with archfiends attacking ya again and again."
"I mean, come on, one guy tries to blow up the world with tech. How many times has a demon tried to it with magic?" Sheila asks.
Kria clears her throat delicately. "Did you notice the majority of their forces are Drowned Eye?"
"It's much easier to kill a skeleton armed with a sword than a machine gun."
Sheila frowns. "It was their base, of course the forces there would be all the Ancient undead."
"But from the reports I heard it's mainly cultists an' monsters an' demons an' stuff over most of the world."
Kria shakes her head. "Well, I like rarely see humans and stuff. It's mostly undead tech soldiers and demons."
"Well the demons I grant you, but then this world always has trouble with demons," Sheila says shaking her head. "It's like there's a magnet for 'em somewhere here."
"I blame me." Kria sniggers, picking up another tankard.
Sheila takes another gulp from her mug. "Why, what'd you do?"
"Exist. They all probably want me to make more demon babies or something." Kria shrugged. "I technically like, am the Handmaiden of the Dark Dragon."
"Ewwww," Sheila says with a wince and shudder. "I didn't need to think about demon babies, thanks a lot. Whaddya mean Handmaiden? No you're not. You're drunk, aren'tcha?"
"Of the last survivors of a tribe that worshipped it. They're like, mostly gone. My friend thought somehow dragging me onto an evil altar would cure me. Got possessed instead. Burnt the village down." Kria downs her next mug after this statement
"What? That's... Wow that's awful," Sheila says, clapping Kria on the back. "I'm sorry fer yer loss..."
"Meh. I'm good now." Kria shrugged. "I'll go back after this is over."
Sheila frowns. "Well..." she pauses for a long time. "I'm sorry, I really don't know what to say now."
"I'm good at making people speechless. The fun thing in a way is that, while most people have their lives destroyed by the Strife Lords, they don't like often get to go along for the ride!"
"True that. Last stop revenge?" Sheila asks, holding up her mug for a cheer.
"I already have it." Kria responds simply, raising her mug.
Sheila hits Kria's mug with hers and drinks the last of her mead down. With a satisfied sigh, she puts the mug down. "Oh. Congrats then>"
"Yeah. A devil consumed in fire. Appropriate!" Kria giggled.
"Heheheheh... Fire rocks!" Sheila says with a chuckle.
"Yeah, burny stuff is cool! Kria agrees eagerly, activating her flaming aura. "And flying around on fire scares the enemy from time to time."
"Yeah..." Sheila says. "I prefer to jump around an' shoot things, though."
"Eh, flying is fun...and I need to skip the food quene! Seeya later Sheila!" Kria giggles, her wings emerging and aura disappearing as she flies for more food
"Seeya!" Sheila waves

Posted by: Kaihaku Mon Oct 01, 2007 1:32 am
Sophie raises a hand to cover her eyes as she reaches the smoke from the cooking pits, looking out blindly towards the tables, "I…can't see anything…" The Doctor narrows his eyes attempting to pierce the smoke to no avail. Sophie coughs as she inhales some of the smoke, then starts forward resolutely, "Come on…"
The Doctor follows a few steps behind with a withdrawn frown.
Stepping clear of the smoke, the young priestess looks out over the gathering with a smile, "Oh… Brother Hal!" She glances back over her shoulder, "We can sit with him."
The Doctor steps clear from the smoke a moment later, his eyes narrowing at the occupants of the table almost directly before him, remarking dryly, "Wonderful…"
Hal turns around at Sophie's voice, his face alight with happiness. He stands to greet her and her brother. "Sophia!" he says, smiling broadly. "You look absolutely stunning. And Doctor Coventry, here to escort her in. You two make the most charming pair." He gestures to the table. "Come, sit, sit!"
Sorel drops the berry he was playing with at the name Hal bellows. He looks up and sees the Doctor. "Alastor..." he breathes.
Sophie nods happily at her spiritual elder, starting towards the table, "Thank you!" Her eyes are alight with delight, "What a wonderful feast!" Then she gasps, "Oh my... Are...those Destonian pies?!"
Hal chuckles. "Yes indeed."
((Shouldn’t that be… Yes, indeedallly do.))
Gail smiles as Sophie comes to the table...and then, her blue eyes widen in shock with the appearance of the Doctor. She then turns away, anguish readily apparent on her face, a slender finger placed to her lips.
The Doctor nods his head curtly in greeting, first to the druid and then to the paladin, his voice cold and thick with scorn, "Old man, Strife Slayer…"
Sophie frowns at the tone in Coventry's voice, glancing back over her shoulder, speaking warningly, "Alastor…"
Hal turns around to introduce Sophie and her brother to Gail. "Sophie, Doctor, have you met--" he turns around to point out Gail and sees her anguished expression. "--Gail?"
When addressed, she turns, but finds herself unable to look at the Doctor for long. "Coventry...," is all she manages to say.
Cedric watches the interaction with narrowed eyes.
Sorel stands, holding his meager plate in one shaky hand, as he leans upon his staff to walk towards the confrontation. "Alastor," he says. "You...you look well."
Sophie blinks then, her eyes trailing from the Lady Haubrekt to the elderly druid, "Wait…" She glances at the Doctor, suddenly at a loss, "What's going on?"
"Afraid I can't say the same for you…" The Doctor says quietly, ignoring the priestess for the moment as he continues, "Well, I'll leave you to your meal…" Then he turns to his sister, "I think I'll sit elsewhere, Sophia, you’ll have to forgive me." He then turns and walks around the table towards the center of the feast.
Sorel watches Coventry depart with a terrible sadness, before turning to look at Sophie. "Do you know him?" he asks her.
Gail watches the Doctor walk away, standing after he reaches one of the center tables. "I...excuse me," she says, her voice shaking as she begins to leave after Alastor.
The priestess stares after the Doctor and the Lady Haubrekt for a moment, then turns to the druid with questions of her own in her eyes, "...yes...yes... I know Alastor..." Her eyes narrow slightly with sudden concern, she takes a step towards the trembling druid and offers him a hand. She explains quietly, "He's my older brother..."
Sorel shakes his head, opting to sit down at the table, and placing his plate there. He holds onto his staff with both hands. "Is he... is he alright? He..." Sorel casts his eyes to the ground, speaking barely above a whisper. "He died."
Sophie starts at the words of the druid, "He...told me..." She looks up after Gail, her face blanching, "He told me...that three...paladins..."
Cedric remained seated for a moment after the departure of his fellow paladin, leaning against the table heavily, then he stands grimly and starts after Gail and the Doctor.
"Oh dear," Hal says, looking at Cedric as he departs. "Here, Sophie and Sorel, sit down here. Eat your food. Talk to each other." With that, Hal goes to follow Cedric.
Sophie stares after the others for a moment, then takes a seat beside the elder druid, remarking quietly, "...a fun turn of events..."
A more energetic Sorel might have managed a laugh. But he can only muster a weak smile. "That is one way to put it."
The priestess rests a reassuring hand on the old druid's shoulder, asking quietly, "How are the berries?"
Sorel points out a bowl filled with the same berries. His hand trembles. "They are...I am not used to eating. I think it would be best if you decided for yourself."
"Coventry," Gail says, rushing after the fleeing Doctor. "Coventry, please..."
The Doctor pauses, glancing back at her, his eyes cold, "Yes?"
Gail stops dead, withering under the deceased doctor's glare. Her voice sounds on the edge of breaking. "I...Please...Let me explain...what happened."
The Doctor's glare softens at her visible torment, though his expression remains guarded as he turns fully to face her.
Gail waits, expecting a violent rant, but when nothing comes, she takes a deep breath, beginning the tale. "Astrid told me...what she had done to you when she...showed her true allegiance. She laughed - cruelly - when she told me about all she had done...had tried to do, but failed. She...she masked herself as me, tried to make me believe I did so...She took pleasure in all of it. I...I couldn't..."
Cedric stomps up at this point, followed by Hal.
((BY THEIR POWERS COMBINED, I AM CAPTAIN HALRIC!))
Cedric approaches the two with a heavy frown, his voice weary but filled with unquestionable authority, "I’m not certain what exactly is troubling the two of you…but this is hardly the place to discuss it…” He nods back over his shoulder with a sigh, "Come with me, I have a secluded meeting room where we can discuss the matter.”
Hal comes up from behind Cedric, slightly out of breath. "Now, now, can't we all sit down and talk this out like adults?"
In the middle of her speech, Gail starts as the older, more intense paladin and the understanding friar both approach the two and offer to give advice. She looks to the two of them for a moment, suddenly aware of the scene she must be causing. "I...I don't think that..." She stops, unable to put her protest into words.
((Her worldview is skewed… Cedric is far more understanding than Hal. Just compare their Sense Motives…))
"Would it be terribly out of line if I asked someone to explain what was going on?" Hal asks.
"A marvelous thought…" Coventry replies with unmasked scorn, his eyes glancing around the cheerful feast, "This is hardly the place…" He reaches out taking Gail's hand and nods in mock deference to the two good doers before vanishing with the young paladin.
Gail continues to fumble over her words as she tries to organize explaining the situation to them, but wheels around when the Doctor takes her hand. She smiles as she realizes what he is doing, allowing her to disappear with him and leave the two elders behind.
Cedric stares at the empty space for a long moment, his brow furrowing as his offer of assistance is coldly rebuffed, then he exhales heatedly and turns back to the table.
Hal sighs, and turns back to the table with Cedric, Sophie, and Sorel.

QUOTE
The two reappear in the meadows beyond the thick forest in which the elven town was hidden. In the dim moonlight, the shadowy peaks which held the dark fortress that had conquered in the daylight seemed to retain their menace. The Doctor releases her hand, taking a step away and looking up at the mountains for a moment before turning to face her, his voice empty, “You were saying?”
Gail only nods, the smile dropping as she continues her account. "I...I wanted to look for you. We knew you had died...Astrid coated our weapons in your blood, to make her lie believable, which Sorel used to find you. But we...we couldn't. If we did, many more would have died assaulting the devils, and...that isn't an excuse. Nothing can excuse what we did. We gave our own enemies burials and yet...we ignored you. I promised myself to look for you, to find you after the fighting, but there...there wasn't time." Her last words sound empty, as if she doesn't believe them herself.
The Doctor crosses his arms, his face hidden in the shadows as he processes. He turns away to look out across the plain illuminated by the silver light of the heavens. His voice is worn when he finally speaks, "So… Astrid was a traitor… For her own twisted amusement…she set all that up…and killed me?” He looks down at the thick grass growing below, "Then…Sorel found me… You mean he scryed on…me… ...saw my corpse floating in the river?" He bends down, running a hand through the grass distantly, "Then…you…all of you pressed on to…assault the fortress…" His voice is weak as he voices another question, "How…did you end up here, a continent away?" Asking how, sticking to the concrete, was easier than giving voice to the questions that were actually troubling him.
”We...pressed on, inside the fortress. There, we learned that they were sending their troops to Grans through a portal. Sorel destroyed it...and we were sent to Guardiana. There...we learned how much the cult controlled." She pauses, trying to calm herself as flashes of memory overtake her. "They...control everything. Even Queen Anri was a puppet under them. We managed to rescue her, but...we would have failed, had something not intervened to take us away. I don't know what it was, but I could not withstand its presence...when I awoke, we were on Devil's Tail."
The Doctor stares at the ground in silence after the account ends, his voice feeble when he finally speaks, “Well… It’s only to be expected…” He stands back to his full height, letting his hands hang limply, "You had to do what was right."
Gail stares at the now-drained Doctor, hesitating. "Alastor," she says finally, breaking a long silence, "I'm...sorry."
“No… No, don’t blame yourself…not on my account…” The Doctor says in a defeated voice, looking out over the plains, “You did what you had to do…” …there was no obligation. He holds out a hand weakly, "Come on, I'll take you back to the feast."
The maiden looks over Alastor's fallen face, before taking his hand in hers, waiting.

Sophie takes a berry with a sigh, popping it into her mouth and munching. After a moment, she swallows and sighs, "Bit tart...but not bad..."
Sorel nods, frowning. "What was he like...as a boy?"
"He was withdrawn, gifted, and kind…" Sophie says slowly, staring at the berries meditatively, "Then...without warning...he started changing…he lost his faith and became an unholy menace…" Her gaze drifts down to the table, muttering crossly, "He's so blind…so blind… The fool."
"He is not a bad person..." Sorel says kindly. "Surely you can see that. He creates and mends far more than he tears down."
"I know…I know…" Sophie sighs deeply, adding almost to herself, "He was always there when I needed him…" Her voice lowers, a hint of an old pain entering it, "…until the day he left…" She adds darkly, "If…if he would just stop rebelling..."
"Hey yo! You're the Doc's sis, right?" Sheila says, racing up and stopping abruptly in behind Sophie.
Cedric runs a hand over his face, glancing at the agent wearily and then takes a swig from his goblet.
"Wha... Oh whoops, I'm interrupting something. Sorry," Sheila says, sheepishly, "Am I?" Sheila asks, looking around. "No one's sayin' anything..."
Sophie glances back over her shoulder at the cheery greeting, stifling back her melancholy for a moment, "Um… Yeah, that would be me."
Sheila does a double take. "Wow! Where'd you grab that get up? Why'd you grab that get up?" Sheila frowns. "Was there supposed to be dancing or something? A formal function? Aw man, no one tells me anything..."
"Ah... I had the dress made for me in Saraband..." Sophie smiles slightly then adds with a hint of pride, "I made the jewelry myself."
"It looks good! Two thumbs up!" Sheila says, putting two thumbs up. "But... uh... Why'd ya trot it out? As I said, what's going on?"
Sophie glances at the old druid, "We were just having talking about our pasts..."
Sheila frowns. "You got dressed up to talk about the past?"
"Hello," Hal says, extending his hand to Sheila. "Don't believe I caught your name..."
"Oh! Sorry! Sheila's the name! Nice to meetcha!" Sheila says, vigorously shaking Hal's hand.
"I'm B-b-brother Hal," he responds as he is violently shaken by the enthusiastic agent.
"Oh. Heh. Sorry," Sheila says as she lets go.
"Oh..." Sophie mumbles weakly, "I rarely get a chance to wear my nice clothing...so I thought I thought I'd take advantage of this."
"Oh no, that's fine!" Sheila says to Sophie, laughing. "It's just that you had me worried I was going to look like a schmoe what with this uniform an' all. I mean, this suit's awesome for battle, but it ain't somethin ya wear to a dance, y'know?"
"Well, this wouldn't make for a very good ballroom..." Sophie chuckles.
"I guess not," Sheila says with a laugh. She frowns for a minute. "Why'd I come out here? Oh right! Have you seen your brother?"
"He left a..." Sophie trails off in mid-sentence, adding dryly, "Nevermind, he just appeared behind you."
Sheila whirls around.
The Doctor and Gail are standing behind the agent.
The Doctor looks at the agent wearily but manages a nod and half smile.
Sorel stares at Coventry.
"Oh wow..." Sheila winces. "Man I pick bad moments... It lookes like this might not be the time..." Sheila mutters, tapping her foot. Then she looks up. "But the die is cast anyway. Jim said I could tell you why you have trouble healin' me since we're on the same side." Sheila winces. "But... That can wait I guess. You OK?"
Gail manages a forced smile at the agent, attempting to force some composure on herself. "Excuse me...but I don't believe we've met." She extends a hand to her. "Gail Haubrekt."
Hal looks from one person to the other. "Perhaps we'd all like to sit down?" he suggests.
The Doctor tilts his head at the agent, asking in a tired voice, "Why are you immune to healing?"
"Oh sorry, Sheila! Sheila Durance!" Sheila says, shaking the paladin's hand. "Nice ta meetcha!"
Sophie nods quietly, gesturing to the table, "Yes, please, don't let all this good food go to waste."
"You didn't answer my question..." Sheila says with a frown. She shrugs. "Yeah, it's cause my body's artificial."
"Artificial?" The Doctor questions with a frown.
"It means not natural," Kev says.
((All: Thanks Kev!))
"Yeah. You know," Sheila says with a frown. "Like, cybernetics interwoven with vat grown genetically engineered organics 'n stuff."
"Ah, of course," Hal says, nodding. Meanwhile he looks confusedly at Sophie.
"You have no idea what I just said, do you?" Sheila says with a sigh to Hal.
"Nonsense!" Hal says. "I know what 'vat' means."
Sheila laughs. "I guess so!"
The Doctor smiles slightly at Hal’s defense, stepping over to the table and taking a seat across from Sorel and Sophie, "That explains it then..." He looks up at her, "Though it seems kind of stupid to make a body that can't be healed."
"A pleasure," the paladin states, massaging her hand as the agent goes on about herself with extremely confusing terms. Having made sure it wasn't broken, she motions to the table, "Why don't you sit with us? I'm sure the conversation would be much more...relaxed."
Sorel bites his bottom lip, to avoid saying, "I doubt that very much."
"I can heal fine," Sheila says. "Nanites keep this body of mine in top condition and there are specially designed... err... potions I can use." Sheila shrugs. "I just can't heal much from spells. They've a 25% effect on me, if I remember right."
((TUMCO: Where characters can talk about their game stats without being out of character.))
Sophie arches an eyebrow, "Nani...whats?"
Sheila frowns. "Nevermind, just think of this body as a big suit of armor my soul controls. That's a good way to explain it."
"Huh, weird but I guess that makes sense..." Sophie ponders aloud.
Gail blinks as Sheila continues explaining her unique situation, having chosen to ignore the offer to sit. Sighing softly, she makes her way to her original seat, letting the polite smile drop.
She now happens to be sitting beside the Doctor…of all people.
"Is that like a..." Sorel struggles to find the word, "...a cyborg?"
The Doctor rests his elbows on the table, tenting his fingers and resting his chin on them. He looks at Sheila intently for a moment then his eyes drift over the vast array of food.
Hal notices Coventry's roving eye. "Don't hesitate to help yourself, Doctor."
"Yeah! That's exactly it!" Sheila says, taking a seat, "This seat OK Gail?"
"Gilliam is also a cyborg," Sorel says. "Perhaps you should speak with him at some point."
"Gilliam? The robo... OH! He must be a full conversion borg," Sheila says nodding, "Mostly machine. This body I use is mostly organic."
Sophie looks at the druid in surprise, "You know space people lingo too?"
Sorel shakes his head. "I have picked up a word or two in my time with Gilliam."
"Could you pass that bottle of white wine," she says to no one in particular, motioning to the bottle on the far end of the table before turning to Sheila. "Yes, sure."
"I've decided to change my name to better reflect my purpose in life." Cedric states suddenly in a drunken stupor, "Cedrico Smash’em."
"We've been calling you that behind your back for ages," Zook says.
"'Kay. I didn't know if anyone was sitting here or not," Sheila says, sitting down. "What's with the look, Doc?'
The Doctor arches an eyebrow, glancing back at the agent, "You just revealed that you’re a suit of bio-technological armor..." He shrugs, "I think that warrants a look."
Cedric stares blankly at a spot on the table before him, apparently either not aware of or simply ignoring the request to pass the nearby bottle of white wine.
Sorel takes a bite of his fish, chewing it very carefully, as if he was afraid of biting himself.
"I'm not a suit, just my body is." Sheila frowns, "Anyway, thanks again for settin' all this up, Hal!"
"It is no different, really, than any other person's unity of body and soul," Sorel says. "It merely responds differently to magic."
Hal waves his hands. "Oh really, it was no trouble. You should thank Faralon, he paid for it."
Gail looks up and down the table, and when no one responds, begins to get up to grap the bottle herself.
Sophie frowns as Gail gets to her feet, standing herself and leaning over the table, rather rudely to those nearby, to snatch the bottle of white wine, which she then hands to her brother who passes it on to the paladin.
Gail stops as the priestess grabs the wine and passes it down the line, taking the bottle in hand and sitting back down. "Thank You," she saying, nodding to Sophie before filling her glass to near-overflowing.
The Doctor tilts his head slightly, watching Gail intently for a moment as she fills her glass. Then he picks up a pair of Haponese eating sticks and begins to fiddle with various ways of handling them. Finding one that seems to work, he attempts to snatch himself a piece of salted raw fish and succeeds admirably. He pauses thoughtfully, pondering the strange new taste and snatching another piece, this time dipping it in a thick sauce nearby.

Posted by: Alpha Mon Oct 01, 2007 2:15 am
On his seat, Tanis seems oddly disconnected with the events surrounding him. He gaze is blank and he isn’t attempting to make conversation with anybody. Hearing the voices of Kria and Sheila nearby, he glances over, and manages a small smile.
It soon fades however, the sight acting as a catalyst to the onslaught of memories General Fasher had invoked in the catfolk. Sighing heavily, he picks up a wooden bowl of soup, very similar to what he had been served back in Moun. The memories the spices and broths call up here are more pleasant, and the fatespinner almost sits back down. Almost.
Instead, with another sigh, he stands up and starts away from the crowd. Walking through the forest surrounding the elven village and sipping his soup, Tanis is deep in thought, and not paying attention at all to his surroundings.
After seeing Thavon to make sure he was alright, and his injuries wouldn’t be permanent or beyond healing, Laeral makes his way to the feast. For a while he remains in his seat, enjoying a return to elven cuisine, happily picking away at some pastries and drinking a glass of fine wine.
After only a short while though, the green haired elf begins to find the mass of numbers too pressing for him. Picking up an apple and three similar sized South Parmecian fruits, he stands up and walks off into the forest. A content smile soon appears as he returns to the quiet that can only be found amidst trees.
The smile grows into a grin as he starts to juggles the fruits, the dextrous elf managing it without any particular difficulty. Wondering along, playing his game he takes in the sights of the area surrounding the elven village. Though it was nice to be amongst sylvan kin once more (it had been a fair while), the fact that most of the dwellings were ground level disappointed Laeral. With the majority of Stamp being situated high in the mighty Sea of Trees, the elf was more accustomed (and preferred) living higher up. No matter. Once he’d finished up his fruit, Laeralas decided to find a decently high tree and climb as high as possible.
His keen elven ears snap the daggerspell out of his musings however. The sound of somebody walking is apparent, and the elf looks around, searching for the source of the noise. Quickly locating it, Laeral spots a green haired catfolk walking along a path parallel to the one he is currently on. Moving over to intercept, he calls out.
: “Greetings there! I recognise you from earlier? You’re with one of the other groups from the battle in the ancient stronghold, correct?” he asks. However, so deep in contemplation is the warmage that he doesn’t even notice the elf, or seem to hear the salutation.
: “How…odd,” the elf comments with a slight frown, watching the catfolk continue on his way, before continuing on his own. Resuming his juggling however, the frown doesn’t stay long, and a smile takes place once more, Laeral enjoying himself as he heads back towards where the feast was being held.

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Mon Oct 01, 2007 3:14 am
Musril sneaks into Zook's tent, ducking under the low flap before being able to stand again inside. A dim light flickers; Zook left the lamp on. Small shelves are packed with books, notes, sketches, and diagrams. In the center of the room is a flimsy, ramshackle table and overturned bucket obviously meant to serve as a desk.
A scroll is spread out on the desk, held open by a small gray stone. Musril steps forward, and he sees what looks like a ledger. After reading it for a few moments he realizes it's the names, ages, and hometowns of all the Zooklings, with little notes made in the margins (presumably so Zook can remember all their names). Musril leans over the desk, when the stone Zook used as a paperweight catches his eye, and he picks it up. The scroll rolls closed with a dry rustle.
The stone is heavier than it looks, but the most remarkable thing about it is that the stone is scored all over with dozens of tiny, deep scratches. Musril turns it over in his hands, unsure of its significance. Just then a rustling is heard from the flap.
"What the hell are you doing in here?!" Zook cries, looking up at Musril angrily. "You can't just barge into someone's tent when they're not around! And why are you going through my things! What gives you the right--"
"I'm sorry!" Musril shouts over the ranting gnome. "I was just...you're right. I shouldn't have been here. I'll go." He starts to walk out towards the flap.
Zook sighs, and waves Musril back into the tent. "No, no. I need to talk to you anyway." He points to a stack of books that come up to his eye level. "Have a seat."
Musril perches precariously on the pile of books. "What is it?
Zook climbs up to the top of his bucket-chair, and when seated his head barely comes up to Musril's knees. "You saw that Assault Hardsuit we pulled out of Megiddo this afternoon, right?"
Panic swells up in Musril's chest, but he manages to keep a composed voice. "Yeah. What about it?"
"It's easily the most powerful piece of Ancient tech I've ever found. It's more powerful than the fusion reactor. In the hands of a trained pilot, it'd mean another member on equal footing with the rest of Cedric's Shining Force."
Musril can only manage a shaky nod.
"The thinking was that I'd teach you how to ride it, and then you'd come in to fight alongside ADAM and me," Zook says carefully, as if he were having difficulty getting the words out.
Musril's heart thuds in his ears, and he feels slightly ill. "W-wow... That's...that's amazing."
Zook nods. "I think you're more than good enough to fight alongside us. You'd be a real help." He sighs. "It's just that..."
"What?"
Zook is quiet for several minutes, looking down at the ground and letting his legs dangle off the edge of the bucket. "Give me that rock."
Musril had forgotten that he was still clutching the curiously scarred rock. "Here," he says, handing it over.
Zook hops down from the bucket, turning it over. "Count the scratches."
He tries, but Musril finds the task difficult. The rock is otherwise featureless, and it is nearly impossible to tell after a while which scratches have been counted and which haven't.
"I can't," he finally says. "There's too many of them, and they're all over."
"There are seventy-eight," Zook says. "Back when we first broke the siege of the Fairy Wood there were hundreds of cultists. Men, elves, dwarves, centaurs. All lined up. Absolutely optimal configuration, for..." He shudders. "I killed them. With an anti-matter grenade I salvaged from the Shadowblade. 78 sentient, living people. All at once. Dead."
Musril stares at Zook for a moment. "Why...why did you tell me that?"
"Because I doubt that's a third of the people I've had to kill, or a quarter of the people I'll have to kill before we're done," Zook says thickly. "People with families, with wives and children and pets and jobs and neighbors. But none of that matters anymore, because I killed them." He looks up at Musril, and his eyes appear bloodshot. "And you'll have to do the same thing if you ride that armor into battle."
Musril looks decidedly uncomfortable, and at a loss for words.
"But that's not why I don't want you to do it," Zook says tiredly.
Musril sits quietly, waiting for Zook to elaborate.
"There aren't many things I would've called certain. One of them was that Cedric wouldn't ever die. All the suicidal things he did, it never got that bad. Xadoss socked him in the gut when we were on the Shadowblade, and he still made it out intact." Zook shakes his head. "But after the battle I walked up to where he was and he was lying there on the ground, blood leaking out of his ears. That's why I want you as far away from the fight as possible. I don't want you dying because of something I found and taught you to use. I've got enough dead bodies on my mind without worrying about you, too."
Musril looks at Zook with pity, but a wave of relief washes over him. "I don't want to ride it," he says.
Zook blinks. "Really? Why?"
"I'm not a soldier! I didn't come here to fight and to kill or to hand out holy vengeance, I came here to study and learn from you. I'm not cut out for fighting... Neither are you, by the sounds of it, but you're doing it anyway." Musril sighs. "Be careful, sir."
"A...alright." Zook says, before slumping down into the table. "I guess that means I'm selling it, then."
"It's alright, sir," Musril says. "We'll build things that'll blow that suit out of the water." He grins. "You can count on it."
Zook manages a tired smile at the departing Musril, before he reaches down into the pile of papers and pulls out a yellow folder, opening it and beginning to tear one of the sheets inside.

Posted by: FreedomJu Mon Oct 01, 2007 3:48 am
"Yeah, I feel much better now, thanks," Van states. After a moment, a concerned look passes over his head. "Did I really say 'drunky'?" Melissa stands back up, leaving a roughly human sized impact site in the ground to mark where she had landed. "My mind is clear again, thank you Templar. And Sheila," The Spartan says as she turns her attention back to the Agent. "I never want to do this again."
"Get falling down drunk? Understandable," Sheila nods. "We know your limit now, so it won't be a problem."
"The problem here, was that I immediately gave you the hard stuff..." Sheila says. "Which was too much for a beginner even if you're a talented one."
"I was referring to this activity in general. The sensations were rather... unsetteling." Melissa's eyes quickly darted over to the rock she had been sitting on, checking to make sure her helmet was still where she left it.
"Yes you did," Sheila says to Van before returning to Melissa. "Of course it was unsettling, that's the point! If you don't figure out how to function with alcohol in your system, you'll be screwed if someone muddles your mind! Hell! YOU POINTED A GUN AT ME!"
Sheila sighs. "Here, I'll show you it can be nice too. We'll cut the dose in half. Eight to four. We KNOW that won't get you 'unsettled' as you call it. But it should be just enough for you to feel a little looser."
Van's expression turns into a grimace as he had hoped that he hadn't been actually talking like that. "Remind me to stick to wine," he mutters.
The Spartan is silent for a long moment before responding. "Perhaps another time, I am done for now."
"Oh come on, Melissa, this may the only time in months we can do this," Sheila says. "Look I'll make you a deal. 4 glasses of wine and I'll shut up about this. If you feel funny, we can just see Panth again. OK?"
Melissa-127 would really prefer to avoid any more alcoholic drink, but at the same time getting Sheila to be quiet was tempting. Finally she decided to go with the option that should be better in the long run. "Fine, but no more after this."
"Sure, sure, follow me..." Sheila says, leading Melissa to another table. She gestures to a selection of elven wine. "Dya like grapes?"
"It is not a matter of what I like but what is good for me. Grapes are acceptable however."
Sheila rolls her eyes. "It IS a matter of what you like! There's a ton of stuff that's good for you, you could eat any of it. The question is, what do you enjoy?"
Melissa made a mental note to herself that she had to be more careful about how she responded to Sheila's questions. Otherwise she would be asked questions about things the Spartan considered trivial. "I find all healthy foods equally acceptable. Their taste is not important to me. Can we just get this over with?"
"Fine. Be that way," Sheila says with frustration. "Here, we'll try this one first..." Sheila picks up a glass of ruby red wine. "Wine's not like ale. It's more about how it tastes. Here, drink it slow and savor it."
Melissa gives a small sigh before she pours some of the wine into her mouth. The liquid stays in her mouth for all of a few seconds before she swallows it. "It is tolerable."
"Tolerable... but not enjoyable?" Sheila asks.
"It tasted fine, but I have already told you my thoughts on the importance of taste."
Sheila sighs exasperatedly. "I know you don't care about taste, but things should still taste good or not. All right, finish that glass and really try an' explore the taste."
"Okay, let's try a white wine now," Sheila says, handing Melissa a glass of sparkling champagne. "This is champagne. It's pretty much the best white wine, sweet and bubbly. Give it a try!"
The Spartan however does not take the champagne glass, eyeing with a good amount of dislike. "I have never liked sweet things, not even before I started my military service."
Sheila grins. "Oh? What happened to 'taste doesn't matter'?"
Sheila giggles. "You're no longer ignoring your taste! Progress! If minor, but progress!"
"Anyway, if you don't like sweet stuff, do you like bitter stuff? Sour stuff?" Sheila asks.
Melissa's response came quickly to cover for the slip of the fingers her player had. "I just don't see the point in trying something that has no health benefits that I'm aware of if I already know that I don't like the kind of flavor it has. After all, I want this over as quickly as possible."
"Over as soon as possible! You..." Sheila cries. Then she shuts her mouth and shakes her head. "Fine. Let's try this red one then. Tasted it earlier. It's kinda bitter. Here," Sheila says, passing along another red wine.
Melissa doesn't verbally respond as she grabs the glass and swiftly downs it. However, she keeps the last bit in her mouth for a few seconds as she suspects that Sheila would have something to say if she didn't.
"You're not even trying anymore..." Sheila says, pouting a little. She shakes her head. "Come on, you didn't like that one either?"
Melissa pushed aside the urge to frown as her attempt to keep the process going without comments failed. "Bitter flavors never bothered me."
"All right, bitter stuff... OK, but what about this? Spiced wine, it's got a kick to it," Sheila says, passing another glass to the SPARTAN.
The super-soldier hesitated before trying the wine, wondering what Sheila meant by kick. She knew that the only way to find out was to actually try it however, so she quickly repeated the drinking process she used for the bitter wine. However, she ended up holding the last bit in her mouth a second or two longer than the bitter wine before swallowing it.
Sheila smiles. "Howwazzit?"
The Spartan's face remains neutral. "It was... alright."
Van grins. "I think she likes it."
Melissa simply ignores the village warrior's comment, not willing to either confirm or deny.
Sheila smiles. "Awright... One last one to try. Here, this is a fruity wine. Since you said you were allright with grapes, you should be OK with this..." Sheila hands the Spartan a glass of red wine.
The bald soldier swiftly downs the fruity wine almost as quickly as she did the bitter one. "That one was tolerable."
"OK, so we know you don't like sweet drinks, and bitter or fruity stuff is only OK..." Sheila shrugs. "I guess you like stuff with a kick. You can drink more if you want, but I won't say anything anymore."
The Spartan's relief was well hidden, but those paying close enough attention could likely see it in how her facial muscles seemed to relax. Not only was that buisness finished, she could now go and get a second serving of food; she found that she had been eating more of late, likely a side effect of rebuilding her body after the years long coma. She silently moved to another table to recover more food, and she soon returned to her seat with a plate filled much like her first. However, there seemed to be a larger portion of spicy food compared to before.
"That's a good idea..." Sheila says. "I'mma get more food too."
Sheila leaves for a few minutes, returning with a plate containing a little bit of everything from the varied dishes. "Anyway, how dya feel now?"
The fact that the Spartan was having some trouble keeping her thoughts focused gave her an idea. "Sluggish, I would like to participate in a more convential form of mental excercise to help me get used to thinking with my mind fogged like this. Something like chess."
"Awwww. I guess that's a good idea, but I suck at chess," Sheila says with a frown. "I like games with more action."
The Spartan's response was delayed by the fact that she was currently chewing a piece of food, but she quickly speaks after swallowing it. "Do you know anyone who does play chess then?"
"Well..." Sheila says with a frown. "I think Maria might. I know Jim does."
"I will keep that in mind, thanks." With that the Spartan returns to eating her food.

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Mon Oct 01, 2007 4:19 am
"Colonel Thornton!" Zook calls, hurrying towards the cyborg. He carries a yellow file folder in his left hand. "Gilliam is fine," Gilliam says with a sigh as he turns. "What?" Zook slows to a stop, panting. "What was the population of Rune before the devil invasion?"
Gilliam is silent for a long time. "A few billion."
Zook nods vigorously, still slightly out of breath. "That's what I figured. I...I was really angry with you, when I heard it was the Ancients who'd...you know...and when you said you were one of the ones who did it. But then Sorel went and did his fireworks display, and I think he was right. Nobody should have to make that call, and nobody should have to live with its consequences. You've been walking around for over a thousand years, now, knowing what you did, and I just want to say I'm sorry I was mad at you." He roots around in the yellow folder, and comes out with a square of paper roughshod at the edges, like it had been torn by hand. He holds it out to Gilliam. "I got you this."
Gilliam turns and walks towards Zook. "That's fine... Emotion is to be expected, though I thank you for your apology and accept it." Gilliam takes the folder. "What is this?"
Gilliam opens it and pauses
"I was in the Archives, looking up information on the Guardian Eye. I found your personnel file, from when you were just a corporal," Zook says. "That was the picture in the file. That's you, isn't it?"
Gilliam is silent for a long time before responding, in a strained voice. "Yes... This was me... before the war."
Zook nods. "Right. Well, I thought you might like to have that, is all. Plus if you ever get a chance to get your body back you'll be able to show them what you're looking for!" He smiles a bit at this joke. "There was one other thing I wanted to ask you about..." He roots around in the folder.
"What... might that be?"
"It's just sometimes you forget that all the undead and cyborgs walking around were ordinary people all those centuries ago, and...here we are!" Zook comes up with a large, glossy photograph. "Now, I recognize you, and Steven Sandford, the Silence... so I was wondering if you could tell me who the other people in the picture are."
Gilliam pauses for a moment. "Another picture... I thought... Where did you get this?"
"Just rooting around Megiddo, you know. I think it's the thing I'm most glad to have found...the thing that I'm keeping, anyway..."
Gilliam sighs for a moment before pulling another picture from a pouch at his side. He holds the two pictures up to each other, then returns the other picture to the pouch.
"The one there... In those odd robes is Orin Valegran. You'd know him as the Swarm. This one here? Talius Galt, the Storm. That's the Shade, Rein Cellius. This is the Salamander, Zelan Giate. That one is the Sound, Father Dael Lassaruto."
Zook stares at the picture while Gilliam speaks, his eyes sliding along, committing each face and name to memory. "So they were human once," Zook says, as if he needed verification. "They were human once." He nods, smiling a bit at Gilliam and taking the picture back. "Thank you, Col...Gilliam."
"You're welcome. Thank you... for the file..." Gilliam says, putting the folder in his backpack.
Zook goes off to get some sleep, a big day ahead of him tomorrow.

Posted by: Cyrus Mon Oct 01, 2007 5:07 am
Sophie watches the paladin pour herself a glass of wine thoughtfully, then randomly picks up a bottle of spiced wine and pours herself a glass. She stares at the dark rich liquid for a moment, then sips it tenatively. "Hey that looks good. Do you mind?" Sheila asks, reaching for the same bottle.
Sorel sips his own cup of water, stealing glances every now and then at the far corner of the clearing, and a group of young women eating there.
KingKai279: (I KNEW IT! COVENTRY EXCLAIMS! YOU PERVERT!)
TheUnknownMarine: Faralon walks by with an armful of charm person scrolls towards said table.
Sophie blinks as Sheila snatches the bottle and nods her approval, smiling uncertainly, "Um... sure."
"Thanks!" Sheila says, taking the bottle and pouring herself a glass before putting it back down. "So Gail, I heard you killed yourself a boss!"
Hal looks over at Sheila. "I...beg your pardon? A 'boss'?"
Gail halts in mid-sip at Sheila's exclamation, looking blankly at the agent as she lowers her glass. "Excuse me," she asks politely, not really understanding the statement.
"Oh! Sorry!" Sheila says. "A big baddie! A master villain! You know, one of the head evil guys... What was his name... Xadoss!"
Sorel nods, as he shifts his attention from the distant chatter to the current conversation. "Gail acquitted herself very admirably."
Gail's brow furrows, casting a glance to Sophie before replying. "Everyone did," she says, echoing an earlier statement. "I didn't act alone."
Sophie smiles slightly, taking another sip from her goblet.
The Coventry pauses for a moment, than snares another hapless piece of meat with the eating sticks.
KingKai279: DAMN!
KingKai279: THE DOCTOR!
VoxPVoxD: The Coventry
VoxPVoxD: is that like The Fonz
Cough.
The Doctor pauses for a moment, than snares another hapless piece of meat with the eating sticks.
"Well of course," Sheila says, taking a sip of the wine. "But you got the final blow, I hear. You got the kill, lucky!"
"So where are you all from?" Hal asks. "I know where Sophie's from...which means I know where our good Doctor is from as well!"
"I was born in Tristan," Sorel says. "But I lived here in the Fairy Woods before I began my travels."
"Please," she says suddenly, looking to Sheila. "I don't want to be remembered as a..." She stops, Hal's exclamation interrupting her. "Why would that be?"
Hal winces and looks at Sophie. "Sorry, dear," he says. "I thought you'd told them..."
Sophie looks at her spiritual elder oddly, then blinks, "Oh... No." She smiles lightly, "I'm a native of Saraband."
Sorel looks askance at Sophie and the Doctor, but he does not reply, opting instead to take another bite of fish.
"Like I said...some bay somewhere..." The Doctor mutters quietly, without looking up, going after a pickled vegetable of some sort.
The paladin waits for elaboration, and merely says "Oh..." when it doesn't come, returning to the glass of wine still crooked in her hand.
Hal folds his hands, and twiddles his thumbs for a moment. "Well..." he says, before perking up again. "What about you, Gail? Where's home for you?"
Gail pauses slightly before she replys, pensive. "A small farming village in South Parmecia named Ribble. It's north of Hassan. Very quiet there...I hope to return soon."
Hal nods, smiling. "What about you, Sheila?"
Sorel is again distracted by the conversation at the distant table.
"Ribble?" Sophie mouths quietly, visions of humble origins and grand deeds flashing through her mind, "I've never heard of it."
"You're from Ribble?" Sheila asks, raising an eyebrow. "Did you ever go ruin exploring?"
Sophie takes another sip of the sweet wine as she looks at the paladin intently.
[babble fills the chat as Cyrus disappears, needing to tend to the laundry.]
"Yes...Yes, I guess you could say I have. That's how we ended up in Grans, actually," she says, smiling politely.
"But you're not on Grans," Sheila says, blinking.
"It's a long story," Gail replies quickly, glancing at Sorel for a moment. "One I don't feel like telling."
Sheila shrugs. "Anyway, I meant did you go ruin exploring in your childhood. Since you're from there an' all."
"Oh...no, I wasn't much for delving in caves when I was young. I preferred to climb the cliffs nearby, a little ways outside of town. Scared...nearly everyone half to death, more than once."
"Man, if I grew up in a town with ruins, I'd be exploring them all the time..." Sheila says with a laugh. "Imagine... All that adventure ground for a little kid... That would be awesome."
"Ah, so, you finally answer the question..." The Doctor leans back in his chair, nodding sagely, "You didn't grow up near ruins, very enlightening."
Sheila just gives him a shrug.
KingKai279: ((Jokes on Sheila! She did grow up around ruins.))
KingKai279: ((The ruins of her home town... ))
Gail simply shrugs. "I suppose I was afraid of the dark, when I was younger. That would erase any drive to go ruin diving, wouldn't you think?"
"I guess..." Sheila smiles. "Unless they were ruins with lots of sunlight!"
VoxPVoxD: or fires
The Doctor frowns for a moment, looking at the elderly druid, then he chuckles, "I think I'm going to mingle..." He nods to the group, standing and sliding from his chair, "See you later."
Hal waves. "Goodbye, Doctor!"
Sophie frowns at this then shakes her head and pours herself another glass of the wine, smiling happily, "It's so sweet and tasty..."
Gail chuckles lightly, returning the smile. "I suppose...No such luck for me, though." When the Doctor leaves, she simply looks after him, her eyes falling to the table soon afterwards.
"Seeya Doc!" Sheila waves goodbye. She grins as Gail looks after Coventry.
Hal gets up next, stretching and groaning. "Well, if you'll all excuse me, I really should be off to bed. I've got to be up bright and early tomorrow...or dark and early, I suppose. Take care, and enjoy the feast!" With that he waddles off towards the tents.
"Bye Hal!" Sheila waves.
Sophie waves after the far priest, "Night!"
KingKai279: fat
VoxPVoxD: far priest
VoxPVoxD: FARPRIEST
VoxPVoxD: THE SPACE HEALER
Gail looks to Sophie, happily downing her second glass and soon to move onto her third. Setting her own unfinished drink aside, she stands, bowing the priestess good night before leaving to turn in.
Later that night...
Gail dug into her pack, having returned to the tree where she left it and all her other personal effects. Beside her lay her bedroll, unfurled, and she began to go through the motion of preparing to sleep, though she was far from tired, despite all reason. Her mind buzzed with all the things said and done earlier, a droning she hadn't been able to drown in alcohol or starve with food; she certainly couldn't silence it with talk. Dragging out the blanket she would need for the night, she looked down at the simple leaf green frock she had purchased earlier and wore now, as part of an earlier promise she decided it was time to fulfill. She wondered, vaguely, if he noticed.
The battle-proven knight suddenly became wary, expecting someone else to appear behind her and change her life today, causing her unstable mind to overflow with the combined stress of the day. She had so many important words to remember, so many conversations that kept running through her head and so many different times, that she had to stop and breathe, lest she break and give to the uncontrollable urge to wail to the sky so far above her. Even then, it was difficult not to. The maiden had kept it down, though, wearing the best smile she could muster and enjoying the evening that had been so meticulously prepared. She couldn't say that she wasn't surprised at her own willpower, so she didn't.
Having set up for the night, Gail turned to the star-swept sky above. For a moment, she simply stared at the spin and sparkle of the celestial bodies, perpetually left to dance in space. Then, her eyes welled up as a thought came, unprovoked across her mind. He's alive...Alive...It's a miracle. Pressing clasped hands to her small lips, she looked to the night sky, tears running freely down her smiling face. He's alive...
: "Thank you," she whispered, hardly louder than her soft sobs. "Thank you."

Posted by: FreedomJu Mon Oct 01, 2007 9:32 pm
Jim is seated at a long wooden table, finishing his plate. Having by now finished her second serving of food, Melissa almost silently walks up towards Jim with her helmet tucked under her arm. "Sir, a moment of your time?" "Certainly, Melissa," Jim says, putting his fork down and folding his hands. "What is it you need?"
"I hear you play chess, sir. Would you be interested in a game?"
"Certainly," Jim says. "Do you have a chessboard?"
"No sir," the Spartan replies. "However, I was thinking we could grab some paper and some kind of marker and make our board. For the pieces we could mark rocks or tear up another sheet of paper into smaller pieces and mark those for the units, sir."
"Right..." Jim nods. "Or just draw the pieces on and erase as needed. One sec, I'll be right back. I have some paper and pencils in my pack for quick mapmaking."
Jim returns after a few minutes with a few pieces of paper, and a pencil. Swiftly he sketches out a chess board, then draws the symbol for each piece into its starting position.
"You want to be white or black?" Jim asks.
"I'm comfortable with either position, sir." Melissa pauses as she realizes there was a quick way to figure this out. "We could flip for it."
"All right," Jim says, producing a gold piece from a pouch. "Heads or tails?"
"Heads, sir."
Jim flips the coin then looks at it, shrugging. "Heads it is. Your move."
Melissa starts off by moving up a pawn.
"I didn't know you played chess," Jim says as he moves a piece.
"We used any game that simulated a military engagement as part of our training during our early years, sir." Melissa moves one of her pieces, but immediately afterwards realized she should have moved a different piece instead. Unfortunately it was too late to do anything about it, she would just have to make do.
"Chess... Well, no I suppose I can see how it would help," Jim says, moving another piece. "Honing your observational skills and ability to piece a strategy together."
Melissa moves one of her knights, then sees that she put it in a vulnerable spot without enough support to launch a good counterattack upon its capture. "That is correct sir."
"Did you play chess often?" Jim asks, moving another piece.
"Not recently, sir. The war took up all our time over the last couple of decades." The Spartan moves another pieces to support her knight.
"Even in the middle of war, there is time with nothing to do. What did you do during those times?" Jim asks as he moves a rook forward.
Melissa moves up a pawn, creating a triangular formation of pawns in an attempt to hinder the movement of the rook Radford had just moved. "We prepared for our next operation, or one the rare occasions our gear was fully ready before the mission we do a little training."
"Even with that there should've been time... You can only prepare so much. Weren't you ever waiting for orders or guarding a complex?" Jim asks, moving another rook forward.
"No, we were always used for offensive operations and there was always a Covenant position they wanted us to destroy. And during slipspace travel the majority of the crew was put into cry, including us." One of her bishops was moved in an attempt to make it risky for Jim to move his queen.
Jim swiftly moves one of his one bishops to capture Melissa's. "So... A life of constant warfare?"
"Yes, sir." Melissa frowns as her piece is captured and moved one of her pawns to cut off the bishop's line of retreat, but in the process she accidentally opened a couple of her pieces open for capturing.
Jim frowns as he moves his other bishop to capture an enemy knight. "You remind me of another soldier that used to be in this unit..."
"Sir?" Melissa asks as she moves her queen out to finally capture one of Jim's pieces, a pawn.
"It was awhile ago. We had a reformed Space Marine of the Imperium join the Rangers. His name was Ars Helken," Jim says as he moves one of his rooks to take Melissa's queen. In doing so, the rook is left open for capture. "Are you familiar with the Space Marines?"
"No, sir." Melissa's first instinct was to take the rook, but suspected a trap. However, her wine fogged brain couldn't figure out what the trap was and so she followed her instinct and marked down a pawn taking Jim's rook.
"They're humans that had most of their humanity hammered out to make them better weapons," Jim says, quietly, moving a knight forward. "The Imperium's Space Marines selects their recruits at very young ages..."
"Those children, only a handful of the thousands of candidates survive each year for each Chapter of the Marines. They then undergo drastic surgery and implantation, followed by retrogenetic therapy. They are given new organs and abilities, to make them terrifying in combat."
"Finally, they are brainwashed with intense hypnotic conditioning," Jim says, folding his hands. "To erase any doubt and really, anything but the drive for combat and a fanatic loyalty to their Emperor."
"Anyway, it's your move," Jim notes. "Helken went through all of that, and for over a hundred years did nothing but fight endlessly in the name of his Emperor. Space Marines live for a very, very long time. The oldest ones I know of have lived to be a little over ten thousand years old."
What Radford described reminded Melissa of her own training, specifically the bio-augmentation procedure that many of her fellow trainees had failed to survive. Others had been crippled and were reassigned as strategic analysts and the like. However, what they went through was not anywhere as severe as what her commander had just described. Even to her it sounded cruel. The Spartan was silent as she countered Radford's knight with her remaining one, and again an opening in her strategy was created by accident.
"Helken was defeated in a battle that pitted a squad of his Space Marines against one of our Hypercommando squads," Jim says, moving another rook to capture Melissa's knight. "Apparently the head of the squad took him prisoner and managed to slowly reform him over the course of a few years."
Melissa frowned at how poorly she was doing in this chess match. She used to be rather good at it, one of the best players among the Spartans in fact. Despite her concern over her lack of skill and the reduced mental clarity brought on by the wine, she listened attentively to Jim's story as she moved a bishop to strengthen the defenses around her king.
Jim moves one of his knights closer to Melissa's pieces. "Needless to say... Helken had a lot of problems when he joined the Rangers. Not anything like discipline or ability. Oh no. Space Marines are indeed deadly in warfare, and Helken was no exception. However, things like taking prisoners and the like were foreign to his mind at first."
"Aside from the deadly in warfare bit though, that's not what makes you remind me of him," Jim says with a chuckle.
"Sir?" Melissa asks again, not knowing what Radford might be talking about. Not willing to just sit on the defensive, the Spartan moves up a rook to threaten Jim's knight.
Jim moves one of his bishops up. "You see.. Helken was fine in battle. In the middle of a fight, he would shoot and slash with as much skill as anyone I'd ever seen. He knew where to go, what tactics to use. However..."
"Outside of battle he was lost. Your move."
Melissa could understand that, it was that kind of situation that caused her to enlist with the GDO in the first place. Instead of using her rook to capture Jim's knight, she instead moved more towards Jim's side of the board to capture a pawn.
"Constant warfare will make a weapon out of anyone... But weapons are not worth as much as a soldier. And true soldiers are those that can retain their humanity," Jim moves one of his knights past a line of Melissa's pawns. "Check."
Castling was not an option and she didn’t' have anything to capture the knight, so the Spartan was forced to move her king a space closer to the knight to get inside of its range. In the back of her head Melissa had to wonder in which category did her commander placed her, warrior or soldier?
"You're not nearly as bad as Helken, though. And even Helken was saved in the end. Your only problem... Well... What do you think it is?" Jim moves one of his rooks down, lining it up with the King. "Check."
The Spartan was surprised at Jim's statement, despite the fact that she should have seen it coming from his earlier comments. "I don't know, sir." She had little choice but to move her remaining bishop between the rook and her king.
"It seems to me that you only know warfare," Jim moves his final bishop. "Checkmate." Jim leans back with a slight smile. "But there's nothing stopping you from expanding past that. Good game, if a bit quick."
Melissa didn't consider it a problem, but before the GDO had stopped the war she had always assumed she would die fighting the Covenant. Now, as part of the GDO, it seemed to her that she wasn't being given much of a choice but to explore other facets of life somewhere down the road. Taking one last look at the chess board, she raises her eyes to Radford's face. "Again, sir?"
"Sure, Melissa," Jim says with a grin.

Posted by: Rusty Mon Oct 01, 2007 10:12 pm
((This takes place sometime before leaving Megiddo.)) *Ombligo, bubbling with joy, stays near the back of the group as they begin to exit the massive fortress of Megiddo. As they leave the building, Ombligo floats to the left side of it, giggling to himself as he begins to write on the side with his tentacle, "The Shining Force was here ^_^". Pleased with his work, the magic creature floats back to the party innocently.*
===
*At the feast, Ombligo floats about, searching for Tanis. His eyes glance over the delicacies prepared by Hal as he floats over the tables and heads of the people sitting. After about a minute, Ombligo finally finds the catfolk. He approaches the catfolk energetically.*
: "Hey, Tanis. Care for a game? It's been a while, and since it's a big party maybe we could pull others into one. Graigus was playing some drinking game with some of the others, but that didn't look fun at all. So what do you say?"
===
*Faralon, having finished his first helping, stands up and heads towards the stage. He nods to a band of elves who are carrying musical instruments. They were volunteers who agreed to play at the feast for the forces. Faralon turns to face the allies forces. He raises his arms, his right hand holding his lute. He speaks in a loud but attentive voice.*
: "Hello, everyone. As most of you know, I am Faralon. Along with several elves of the village, I'll be playing for you. I'd just like to thank a few people before we begin. First of all, I'd like to thank Hal for putting together this incredible feast. It was a grand idea and one I anxiously approved."
*Faralon grins at the healer, outstretching his left hand to present Hal's current location. He nods before continuing.*
: "I would also like to thank a certain Swiftjoke for making it all possible. Of course, I'm talking about Derrik. But I guess he's a little too busy to be with us here tonight."
*Faralon turns his gaze to the ground, searching for his brother. Once he finds him, he turns his hand to his direction.*
: "I would like to thank my brother, Ashathel, for joining me in this expedition. Truth be told, I'm not sure I'd be the same if he hadn't come along."
*Faralon then motions to the area he was sitting before, to Kethra.*
: "I would like to thank Kethra, my love, for being an inspiration to me and being the strong, beautiful person she is. I hope she'll decide to dance later, because she's really quite good!"
*The elf smiles before motioning over to his leader, Cedric.*
: "And last, and certainly not least, I would like to thank Cedric. If he were not there to lead us, I'm not sure our group of rascals could've ever amounted to anything more than a confused lot of headstrong ignoramuses. Cedric's helped us with his sharp wit, strength, and determination so often, I feel he has largely gone unappreciated. So please, give him your applause. He's an outstanding leader and a fine friend to have."
*After the applause, Faralon nods to the forces and townspeople once more.*
: "Now sit back, enjoy the feast, and now the music."
*Faralon nods to the elven band. They take their places and begins to play an upbeat song. Faralon and a few of the elves are particularly good, though a few of the elves are amateurs, causing Faralon to give extra attention to keeping them on key and with the tempo. All in all, it is a very memorable performance.*
((Perform check total: 48.))

Posted by: Aldur Tue Oct 02, 2007 12:44 am
Sulia frowned, listening to the voice of Harrel, happily chatting away to her, acting almost childlike and innocent in front of so many people. She grinned at this, happy to see that the former evil incubi was coming along well in the ways of the Light. He also seemed pleased to see her again, despite being rather touchy feely...she supposed that was his way. His race was a...odd one to put it mildly.
She turned, leaving the feast behind her, looking back over her shoulder, somewhat sadly and shook her head. This wasn't her place and she was merely deadweight. And she still had her original mission to complete. Returning to her room she left the saint's mace and her armour on the bed, telling Harrel to make ready to leave, his training had begun.
She looked out the window of her room, watching and hearing the merriment. She laughed softly to herself as Harrel bustled about, packing his things. She turned and nodded to him, leaving a small note.
"I wish you all the best of luck. But I must find the grave of my husband before I can continue on with you. I know you all will succeed...and I have the oddest feeling I'll see you all again before this is over. I leave the armour given to me and the Holy Staff presented to me, for they are not mine to keep.
Stay well.
Sulia Adelhyde."
By the morning all would find out that Sulia was gone...
((
Medium Fortification Breastplate +5 (Acid Resistance 20) : +10AC, Max Dex+3, ACP-4, 30lbs.
And Artifact Saint's Mace left behind and now up for grabs.))

Posted by: Kaihaku Tue Oct 02, 2007 7:21 am
((How exactly are you treating alcohol? It deals subdual damage that can be healed by cure spells? I would think it more along the lines of poison personally...but, whichever, let me know...actually, judging from the way this feast is going, let everyone know. ))
Sophie waves sadly as the paladin departs. After a moment, she pours herself another glass of the tasty wine with a happy little smile... then, she glances at Sorel out of the corner of her eyes before pouring him a glass with an even happier little smile.
((Assume she swipes him a glass from those unused if his is currently filled with something less delightful than sweet spiced wine.))

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Tue Oct 02, 2007 5:53 pm
((Oh, this is what you meant...)) Sorel politely pushes the wine away, and he looks at Sophie with concern. : "Perhaps you should be more careful..."

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Tue Oct 02, 2007 6:31 pm
((I treat alcohol as a mild toxin. Every time you drink, you'd be making a Fort save with a DC depending on the booze's strength. The more you drink, the higher the DC. Failing the first save means you're buzzed, second means you're drunk, third means you're falling down drunk. Of course you hardly need roll saves, this is just how I treat the stuff for the purposes of drinking games and the like. There is no need to bog the feast down in, "OK, I passed on that drink... No! a nat 1!" Just keep in mind that generally those with higher Fort saves can drink more without ill effect as a guideline of how much your character can drink.
It's worthy to note that any spell that will cure poison can sober you up.))

Posted by: Kaihaku Tue Oct 02, 2007 7:55 pm

QUOTE (VoxPVoxD @ Tue Oct 02, 2007 11:53 am)
((Oh, this is what you meant...)) Sorel politely pushes the wine away, and he looks at Sophie with concern. : "Perhaps you should be more careful..."

Sophie looks saddened as Sorel politely pushes aside the wine, looking away, "I'm...I'm sorry... I..." She lowers her head then adruptly stands and unsteadily walks from the table towards the town.

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Tue Oct 02, 2007 7:58 pm
Sorel watches Sophie depart, the same look of concern on his face, before he turns again to look in Telanna's direction.

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Tue Oct 02, 2007 10:03 pm
"Why'd have to go an say that, Sorel? Now she's all sad!" Sheila says, getting up from the table. "It's a party, ain't everyone s'posed to be nice an' all?" Sorel looks up at Sheila. "I did not intend to hurt her feelings. I simply do not drink."
"You didn't..." Sheila shakes her head. "How can you be that old an' not know howta talk ta people? I better run damage control..." Sheila says, turning to follow the young priestess.
Sorel watches Sheila depart, suddenly feeling far more concerned for Sophie.
"Wait," he says. "I do not think that will be necessary.
"'Course it is! Don' worry, I'm great at this!" Sheila says as she dashes off.
Sorel groans audibly, slumping his head into the table.
-------
"Hey, don't look so sad," Sheila says, dashing up to Sophie. "Whassa matter?"
The priestess mumbles, "Going to bed..."
Sheila frowns. "But you were all laughin' and smilin' like four minutes ago! You can't go to bed sad, that ruins the whole purpose of the party!"
"...I'm not sad." Sophie mumbles firmly in reply though not very convincingly.
"Oh come on, you're like, mumbling and frowning and tearing up," Sheila says, flailing her arms for emphasis. "Sorel said he didn't mean to be mean, he just doesn't drink."
"I am not!" Sophie protests huffily, "I'm just tired. That's all."
"It's nine o' clock!" Sheila protests. "The party's barely begun! There's going to be singing an' stuff! Didn't you say you wanted to look pretty? When's the next time you can wear the awesome dress? Shouldn't you make the most of this?"
"We have to go kill things tomorrow..." Sophie grumbles in reply, her head wobbling in annoyance, "Why should I bother trying to look nice when I'm just going to get zombie all over me again?"
Sheila bursts out laughing. "Tommorrow? No way anyone's doing anything but rest tommorrow. You can't fight an offensive after a party like this!" Sheila grins. "Oh don't be that way. There's always going to be gross stuff in your life like zombie guts. But there's also always gonna be neat times in which you can look good. That's why ya gotta take it when you can get it!"
Sophie stops suddenly, staring down at the ground blankly, "I...I..." Her hands curl into fists and she stomps the ground, raising her voice in protest, "No! No! Alex is fighting for a world without zombie guts!"
"Sheesh! OK, maybe not zombie guts, but there's more to grossness than zombie guts! Come on, don't go to bed just yet, at least wait until you're all happy again. You were smiling minutes ago, what was makin' ya smile?"
"Everyone else went to bed!" Sophie exclaims in a huff, "Even Brother Hal and Lady Hau...hau...b..." She frowns, trying to mouth the name.
"That's not everyone!" Sheila exclaims. "Th' dwarves are still goin' at it, and I'm pretty sure one of them's a pally! All the Rangers are here! Heck! Alex is still here, so's most of your group."
Sheila giggles a little. "An... Wanna know somethin' funny?"
Sophie frowns, looking at Sheila warily, "What?"
"I think Lady Haubrebauble or whatever has a crush on your brother," Sheila whispers conspiratorily. "The way she looked at him when she left... Hahaha!"
Sophie stares at the ground intently, her brow furrowed thoughtfully.
"Come on, if Sorel makes you sad, just go talk with someone else. There's like a hundred people here!" Sheila says, indicating the vast party. "Cheer up!"
"I'm not sad." Sophie replies primly, starting on her way again, "I'm not sad at all, just tired."
"Grawgh!" Sheila growls in frustration. "You're blatantly sad! OK, if you're not, then smile"!
Sophie glances back over her should, rolling her eyes and smiling widely.
((TheUnknownMarine: I am sensing your motive
TheUnknownMarine: Sensing it with a 25 total.
*And then Kai rolled a nat 20.*
TheUnknownMarine: BLAST YOU
KingKai279: I am buffing, I am a tired Sophie.
KingKai279: Actually, I think she has a tipsy mod...so... I'll give you that she's slightly intoxicated and not having fun.))
Sheila sighs. "All right, fine... I guess if you're really that tired it can't be helped..." the agent frowns at Sophie. "But really, you're missing out. Feasts like these are hard to come by... Oh! Here's a helpful hint! You can get rid of drunkeness and alcohol effects with a Detox spell! Try it, if you feel bad! Works like a charm!" Sheila shrugs. "Well, if you're seriously going to bed sleep well, I guess."
Sophie nods stubbornly, marching on.
Sheila sighs, turning to leave. "Man, I just don't get some people..."

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Tue Oct 02, 2007 10:32 pm
: "Hey there, good lookin." A young man remarks with a grin, one which admiringly contains equals measures of dash and slime, he nods at the young druidess with a wink, "What the hell do you think you're doing?" His hair is long, wild, and chartreuse in color. His eyes...some color but definately intense, "Here, that is. You belong with me."
Telanna looks up at the sleazy stranger, and bursts out laughing. "Hahaha! Are you drunk?"
"Only on you." The man replies with a sly grin, then nods to the woods, "How bout I show you my good my archery is?"
Telanna shakes her head, still grinning. "I don't know who you think you're fooling. Who are you, anyway? I don't remember seeing you in the village or at the battle."
At this moment, Sorel looks up, and sees what is apparently Dam Dicem hitting on his daughter.
The sleazy man sauntering to the table and snatching a pear with a chuckle, "Well, ya aren't exactly the smartest chick in the hen house, just the prettiest..." He leans over the druidess, then turns to look at Sorel and laughs.
Telanna recoils from the lecherous Dam-doppleganger. The other elven maidens all clear off to another table, not wanting to be involved in this but knowing Telanna can take care of herself.
Sorel gets up from the table and moves swiftly over towards the two, abandoning all pretense of stealth. "What...what..."
Dicem stumbles back, nearly doubling over from laughter.
Sorel glares at who he realizes is the Doctor. "What...how dare...what is the meaning of this?!"
Telanna glares at Sorel with equal ire, as if this was somehow his fault. "One of you explain. Now."
Dicem laughs and laughs, then stands up straight and laughs some more, getting out, "I had...to get...back at you for...the lecture earlier..." He laughs and laughs, "...and I owe him...the old pervert...for that bath...last time we had a drink together..." He laughs some more.
"What? You cannot--what kind of--what is the matter with you?!" Sorel cries, before doubling over in a coughing fit.
Ignoring the feeble Sorel, Telanna stands, swiftly turning towards the Doctor. "I don't know what kind of joke you and him or playing, or even who you actually are, but leave me the hell alone!"
Dicem snaps his fingers at the old man, still laughing, and he is suddenly infused with health. Then he taps his head in salute to the young woman, chuckling, "But then...who will heal you when you stand on death's door?" He rubs his head, laughing again, "Gods, I haven't had this much fun in weeks..."
Sorel continues coughing, although he looks up at Coventry with a pleading expression. "Please...Alastor..."
((You can't heal away a 9 CON ))
Dicem frowns at this, the mirth slowly fading from his face.
Telanna raises her hand, as if restraining the urge to strike someone, although it's not clear who. "If you...or my father...doesn't explain what you're trying to pull I swear I'll..."
Dicem exhales sharply, glancing at the elderly druid, then shakes his head with a smirk, "This works out better, now, doesn't it? We ran into each other earlier, now we can be probably introduced, I'm Doctor Coventry." He pulls a pair of glasses from a pocket, resting them on his nose...though they do look rather comical on the Dicem face, "I have a bit of a grudge aganist your old man for dumping water on my head while I was busy showing some paladins the errors of their ways and the obvious flaws of the so-called gods...so...pay back..." He chuckles smugly, "He didn't have a shield, so I had to settle for you."
Telanna slaps Coventry across the face, surprisingly hard. Her eyes start to well with tears. "Don't you ever..." She looks at Sorel again, her fury mixed with pure hurt. "How could you?" is all she says, before turning to run into the forest like a wounded deer.
The Dicem looks at Sorel darkly, mouthing, "I have no children."
Sorel looks desperate and lost. "I didn't know."
The Dicem rubs a hand over his face, glancing back into the woods and then muttering as he begins to walk away, "Sorry..."
Sorel stands, watching the Doctor depart, alone.

Posted by: Aldur Tue Oct 02, 2007 11:35 pm
((This appears to be happening in full public view. That was your mistake.)) Kria frowned, teeth gritted at this sight, setting her platter down gently, telling a random elf to mind it, and with a hunter like yowl Kria flew after the doctor/Dicem Hybrid a purple blur, cannoning into the back of him, the kittykat smiling sweetly.
"Hello Doc."

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Tue Oct 02, 2007 11:46 pm

QUOTE (Aldur @ Tue Oct 02, 2007 6:35 pm)
((This appears to be happening in full public view. That was your mistake.))

((I don't think mistake was the right word))

Posted by: Aldur Tue Oct 02, 2007 11:53 pm
((Yeah, the real mistake is drama Kria isn't part of...))

Posted by: Alpha Wed Oct 03, 2007 1:04 am
Still waking amidst trees surrounding the elven village, it is several seconds before Tanis even notices the magic creature. : “Oh…um, hello Ombligo,“ he replies, smiling at the magic creature’s ever present enthusiasm and energy. These traits had always been able to cheer Tanis up, ever since they’d first met. “Yes, I would be up for a game of cards. Just give me a few minutes first,” the catfolk says. “How about you go and gather up some others who’d be interested in playing, and I’ll join you soon?”

Posted by: Aldur Wed Oct 03, 2007 1:31 am
The Dicem Doctor grunts as is tackled from behind, managing to keep to his feet as he chuckles, "Hello, puss..." He turns to take a look at the warlock, "You look well." "Naturally. Where ya been?" She smiled innocently, pointy teeth bared as she jangled along as usual
"Hell and highwater, the usual..." The Dicem Doctor nods importantly, then shakes his head, "Yourself?"
"Eh, blasting." Kria nodded to herself blinking. "But yeah, like what happened to you? I got possessed and stuff and then guardiana and then here but you weren't around."
"I guess Astrid went and killed me!" The Doctor laughs as if it were a joke, then grins, "But, I got lucky and some dwarves fished me out of the river she threw me in..." He frowns and sighs heavily, "The gang of you is hard to catch up with."
"Astrid?" Kria blinked. "Oh yeah her! I think I remember her. Kinda muggy on rather a few things."
"So, how was possession?" The Dicem Doctor asks curiously, tilting his head, "You picked up some new tricks, it looked like, in that last battle. Gotten stronger and all..."
"Well, it's like you're dreaming really." Kria shrugged. "But the bit where I burnt my village to the ground and slaughtered innocent babes didn't fix itself when I...woke up." Kria sighed at this, leaping back off Coventry and floating near him. "Still not strong enough though. But having an acid blast is fun!"
The Dicem Doctor nods quietly, pondering this for a moment, "So...not too long after I disappeared then?" He shakes his head.
"Like um, you watched me leave I thought?" Kria blinked. "I know you were there when I left. Then me and tanis got possessed and taken away by devils. I got back control at the fort."
"Yeah...I didn't know you got possessed though." The Dicem Doctor frowns then shakes his head, anger in his eyes, "You and Tanis?"
"Yeah, and like the creepy guy. Morgan. But he left. Or died. Ugh...I like, can't remember!" Kria tapped at her head and then snapped her fingers. "Gilliam came with me too, but he wasn't possessed. I think they thought he was dead and he repaired or something and went back to the group and saved us later or something. Ask Sorel." Kria nodded.
"That...sucks..." The Dicem Doctor mutters with a sigh, staring up into the starry heavens, "Gilliam... I imagine this...assualt was hard on him."
Kria frowned. "Having to see the people you love die once is horrible." Kria shut her eyes. "I know. Having to watch it twice must like be, so totally painful."
The Dicem Doctor nods sadly, looking at the catfolk intently, worry entering his voice, "How...are you? It has to be terrible."
"I'm good." Kria smiled. "Watching Xadoss go down helped. I have his orb thing too." she sighed. "It's kinda sad though...I guess."
"Yeah..." The Dicem Doctor nods quietly, "I'd imagine so..." He looks at her for a long moment, "When this is all over, maybe we can do something to bring them back... Once the seal is broken."
Kria smiled sadly. "You want to bring a marauding group of ravagers and pillagers back to life? Odd." Kria shook her head. "Once this is over...I'll go back there and start it over. The right way. It's funny really...how you can love a murderer, and call her mother."
"Isn't that what it means to be good?" The Dicem Doctor asks softly, looking down at the ground, "Loving... Saving people who don't deserve it?"
He sighs heavily, "...or is it really all about ideals...and not people at all? Is it all justice?"
"Depends. My variation of justice is probably very different to someone else's." Kria giggles. "There you go, asking strange questions again."
"I've been thinking about it a lot lately... No, my whole life I've been thinking about it." The Dicem Doctor shrugs, looking towards the mountain, "I want to know what the answer is."
"Waiting for someone else to give you an answer Doc?" Kria prodded him playfully. "Don't sound like you."
"I don't belong in this world." The Dicem Doctor grins, "Not my place to decide the answer, I just want to know what it is." He shakes his head, adding with a chuckle, "You know I ran into another blasty guy like you, Micheal, real stylish, you ran into him yet?"
"Michael? Bleh!" Kria stuck out her tongue. "He seems kinda...celestial. They aren't my fav type of people. And you don't belong in this world? How selfish." Kria genuinely laughed at this. "Like, what gives you the right to decide that?"
Coventry shakes his head, "Now...you're going to add that I'm arrogant, too, right? Seems popular" He sighs, adding wearily, "Wasn't my decision to make... So, whatever." He then chuckles, "I guess so...celestials can be a bother at times, can't they?"
"Eh, fiends are all JOIN ME TO TAKE OVER THE WORLD OR DESTROY IT!" Kria gestured, flame erupting all around her, disappearing suddenly as she began to talk again. "And Celestials? JOIN US AND SAVE THE WORLD OR YOU ARE EVIL!" She giggled. "Rather...stubborn."
"Stubborn isn't always a bad thing..." The Dicem Doctor nods, "But yeah. Then there are the mortals...I guess...all caught in the middle."
"Yeah, gotta suck for them I guess!" Kria sighs, sitting down in the air, crossing her legs, her black wings fluttering behind her.
The Dicem Doctor chuckles, "I know the feeling..." He shakes his head, "So, I wonder, what exactly are we anyway?"
"Well I'm a catling and you're a boring human." Kria nodded.
"Sorry to disappoint... Maybe I can grow some rocket launchers." The Dicem Doctor sighs, then chuckles, "But at least you cared enough to say hello even if I am a bore."
"Hahaha! What's a rocket launcher?" Kria frowned at this, shrugging. "Lotsa people are drunk though."
"Yeah... Wonder what the appeal is?" The Dicem Doctor says thoughtfully, then shrugs, "I'm sorry to cut this short, puss...but there's something I need to handle..." He shakes his head, "I made someone cry...again."
"I'm gonna kick your ass if you keep being a jerk to nice people ya know." Kria smirked, showing off her teeth, and winked.
"Might as well get started then, cause I don't know that I'm going to change much." The Dicem Doctor grins.
Kria sighs, lightly punching the doctor. "You like, need a wife. She'll kick your ass and keep you nice."
"You volunteering?" The Dicem Doctor grins.
"I've already kicked your ass repeatedly. But ugh! I like a bit of romance. A gal likes to be wined and dined." Kria smirked, pushing the Doctor. "Looks like you gotta dine on some humble pie though. Get going!"
The Dicem Doctor rubs his stomach, "My favorite..." He winks, "Thanks." Then trots off.

Posted by: Wandering Dezorian Wed Oct 03, 2007 1:36 am
The two gnomes wander towards the festivities, abandoning the tree line behind them in favor of the glow of the firelight in front. <They weren't happy about that at all.> Sha'aasta was saying in Gnomish. <I'm not sure how I feel about it, either.>
<You've seen what they're up against here. Would you throw them into the middle of that?> Johann replied grumpily. <I hate playing the shell game with the Strife Lords, but that's usually what it is. What route's about to get the hammer, and what town gets to live for today? I just see the hammer hitting here sooner than at home.>
<Anyways, you found them, at least.> Sha'aasta pointed out, her face brightening. <We fix things up, get to be the good guys, and then you can stay or leave as the mood suits you, right?>
Johann nodded, his face also brightening into a smile. <Just gotta figure out how to ask her, without tipping off the whole team as to just what exactly we brought along, eh?>
<Better believe that, boss-old-buddy-old-pal.> Sha'aasta snickered. <If you introduce them the day after the feast, you'll get lynched. They looked mighty hungry when we left. And you better protect that pretty pink skin of yours, since I'm the one one who gets to scalp you first.>, she added with a bit of emphasis.
<Eh?> asked Johann, looking up.
<You heard me. You think I didn't notice that one fat priest casting a spell on me when we were arguing before the fight? Sure was easy to pick out your thoughts then.> Sha'aasta growled, <Now, O Glorious Leader, mind cluing me in on why you let someone else fight your battle just then?>
Johann stared for a moment, then burst out laughing.
<Sha'asta, if you want to pick a fight, you shouldn't give me ammunition beforehand.> Still laughing, he minced around in a feminine fashion, talking to an imaginary Sophie, < It comes from the bottom up, not top down. We need teamwork. This group needs to be a team. Team team team team team. Oh, by the way, have my friend's magic wand he spent three months making so we short people could have a prayer of surviving.> Still chuckling, he turned back to his compatriot. <And after all that, the first time someone other than Sophie tries to help one of us out outside of a battle, you want me to make an issue of it?>
Sha'aasta just stared at him, her mouth working but no words coming forth.
Johann, still chuckling, raised his arms to the heavens in an exaggerated expression of surrender. <All right, you win. How can I stand up to such convincing logic? I'll just nip off and challenge him to a duel to defend your honor, then. "I'll meet you at dawn, sir. Coffee and daggers for two.">
<Oh shut up.>

Posted by: Kaihaku Wed Oct 03, 2007 4:41 am
Sophie walks slowly down the path towards the delegated ‘barracks’. The Dicem Doctor jogs up behind her, calling out, “Sophia!” Sophie grumbles, frowning darkly without turning, “What is it?” “I need a favor.” The Dicem Doctor admits as he slows.
”I’m going to bed.” Sophie replies crossly, stubbornly marching on, “Ask one of your friends.”
The Dicem Doctor grimaces, “Are you drunk?”
”No! I only had a…few…” Sophie frowns, trying to remember just how many she had.
“You are… You’re drunk!” The Dicem Doctor laughs.
”I am…” Sophie whirls around to face him, anger flashing in her eyes, then she stops dumb for a moment, finally managing, “…why…why do you look so stupid?”
“Oh…right…” The Dicem Doctor cringes, making a swift gesture and returning to being just the plain old Doctor, “Better?”
”No… Not really.” Sophie shakes her head, turning back towards the ‘barracks’.
“Sophia…” The Doctor walks after her, look at his sister with a frown, “I made of mess of things and I need some…tactful help.”
Sophie makes no reply, continuing on gruffly.
The Doctor sighs, speaking holy words and contouring his left hand which pulses with golden light. He reaches out, touching his sister on the shoulder and the golden light flashes across her body.
”What did you do that for!” Sophie exclaims furiously, whirling around and kicking the Doctor mightily in the shin.
The Doctor lets out a cry of pain, hopping back on one foot and grapping at the injured leg.
“How dare you…” Sophie glares at him, shaking her head with hurt in her voice, “How dare you.”
The Doctor stares at his sister, the throbbing pain in his leg forgotten, “…Sophia?”
“Alastor, what makes you think you can just breeze back into my life?” Sophie says in a pained voice, tears forming in the corners of her eyes, “You left without even telling me why.” She glares at him accusingly, “I told you everything; I trusted you…you couldn’t tell me that?” She shakes her head weakly, “You abandoned us…no visits…no letters…nothing for three years…” Her voice breaks as strong emotions run through it, “Do you know what that did to mom? To me?!”
The Doctor trembles at her words, lowering his eyes under her glare and staring at the ground silently.
Sophie stares at him for a long moment, then adds with her voice breaking, “But you know what, Alastor, I’m not you. I don’t turn my back on my family and run off to do whatever the hell I want. I’m not rebelling against everything good just because it isn’t perfect.” She shakes her head, tears running down her face, “Who did you hurt now in your rebellion?”
The Doctor mumbles quietly, “…I…” He hesitates, “…nevermind… I’ll take care of it…”
“No…” Sophie says with a sigh, “If you could do it yourself, you would have.” She looks at him, “What happened?”
After a moment, the Doctor explains what happened.

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Wed Oct 03, 2007 6:49 am
"Heya Doc!" Sheila says cheerfully, running up. "Hello again." The Doctor says with a smile, running a hand over the hand and looking down at the mass of food that remains. "Gail, Sophie, an' Hal all turned in... I guess they're lightweights when it comes to this feastin' stuff," Sheila says.
The Doctor nods, "Well, I guess it was a long day."
Sheila tilts her head. "Yeah... Yeah, I guess it was..." Sheila grins. "So... Did ya talk to Gail much tonight?"
The Doctor arches an eyebrow at the agent, "I talked to a lot of people today..." He picks up a berry from where the druid had been sitting with a frown, "Why do you ask?"
Sheila snorts suppressing a giggle. "Cuz I saw how she was looking at you..."
Sheila grins even wider. "Or haven't you noticed?"
"Almost as if I had come back from the dead and she blamed herself for my death?" The Doctor offers.
Sheila blinks. "What?"
"You hit the nail on the head." The Doctor winks, "Brilliant deduction."
"Naw, that's silly. Why would she think that?" Sheila asks. "Naw, she's got a crush on you! That's so cute! A paladin and a healer!" Sheila says chuckling.
The Doctor arches an eyebrow, rubbing his chin, "You think so?"
"Sure!" Sheila says, slapping the doctor on the back. "Ya gotta have more confidence in yourself!" Sheila winces, a thought suddenly occuring to her. "...but I really wouldn't call her a whore or anything like you did with everyone else... Things like that strain a relationship."
The Doctor arches an eyebrow, "I would never call a paladin a whore..."
Sheila shrugs. "Well, ya called yer sister one, an' she's a priest, so really I don't know what to expect from ya in that regard anymore."
"Who called my sister a whore?!" The Doctor frowns, his eyes narrowing, "If I get my hands on..."
Sheila arches an eyebrow. "Uh... I really don't know if I wanna know what you'll do when you get your hands on yerself... Especially with the way ya talk about whores."
The Doctor smiles politely, "You're quite the character, Sheila." He looks out over the drunken feast, "Tell me, how did you fare in school?"
"Huh?" Sheila asks. "Wha... Whatcha mean?"
"How were you school years?" The Doctor asks again, "You are educated, right?"
"Of course!" Sheila says, indignant. "I graduated top of my class! I needed to, to become an agent!"
"How old are you inside that bio-tech armor anyway?" The Doctor questions with a strange smile.
"Err... Dontcha know it's rude ta ask a lady her age?" Sheila asks. "Twenty."
"You may be a woman but you are hardly a lady..." The Doctor replies with a grin, then tilts his head, "Huh, I had you figured for thirteen." He shrugs, "Ah well, so, when's your birthday?"
"Thirteen?!?!" Sheila exclaims. "That's like way below minimum age to enlist!"
"Like...totally too young." The Doctor grins, "So, how old were you when you left your birth body?"
"Uhhhh..." Sheila squints, trying to think. "Eighteen."
"....and this class of yours?" The Doctor asks, "When did you start that?"
"Umm..." Sheila scrunches her face. "I think it was... Well, the military academy's four years, so fourteen."
"Ah, thought so..." He nods knowingly, "Strict discipline then?"
"Well..." Sheila squirms, the subject making her uncomfortable for some reason. "I think they tried... Don't think it worked out to well for discipline, but fightin' an sneakin' got jammed in my brain pretty good."
"Sneaking? I still have to see that..." The Doctor chuckles, "I only recall witnessing fighting so far."
"Doc, doc..." Sheila says, putting her hands on her hips. "If you could SEE me sneaking, I wouldn't be very good at it, would I?"
"Kind of like if you could tell when I was lying, I wouldn't be very good at it." The Doctor nods, walking around the table and looking down at it strangely.
"Right!" Sheila says, nodding. "What's with all the questions, anyway?"

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Wed Oct 03, 2007 6:49 am
Sophie walks up to the weary old druid, pausing with a weary sigh, "Sorel…" She looks at the forest for a long moment before speaking, her voice tired but resolved, "Let's go find her." Sorel turns to Sophie, and it appears that the weight of the world is pulling him down. "I cannot. It is not...not my place."
The tired Sophie arches an eyebrow, looking at him flatly, "You're her father, if it isn't your place, then whose is it?" Then she sighs, "Besides, I don't know anything about the forest, you'll have to guide me."
Sorel opens his mouth to say, "No one's," but he closes it again, and turns to walk slowly into the forest. "This way."
Sophie follows with only the slightest wince as she steps into the brush.
Sorel looks back with a frown, and continues on, electing to take a longer path that does not run through any undergrowth. "I believe I know where she is headed."
"Oh good..." Sophie whispers quietly, moving after the druid.
As a consequence the two take a long and meandering route that moves deeper into the forest. Sorel stops, tilting his head as if he was listening to something, and his face grows even darker.
"That way?" Sophie questions, nodding down the path and starting towards the sounds without waiting for conformation.
Sorel moves a bit more swiftly, although he continues to meander around the brambles and the burrs. Suddenly the pair comes to a wide clearing, dominated at the far end by a massive oak tree, its leaves bright orange even in the dark.
A form is huddled at the base of the tree, sobbing.
Sophie slows, glancing at Sorel with a frown and whispering, "What's her name?"
"Telanna'brielle," he whispers.
He starts to step forward, but he pauses, held back by some unseen force.
"Telanna?" Sophie says softly as she steps towards the tree, glancing at Sorel questioningly as he pauses.[/b]
"It...it is not my place to be here," he says. "I abandoned her, I have no right..."
"Who said parenthood was a right?" Sophie replies with a cross frown, but then contiunes towards the girl, saying again, "Telanna?"
Telanna stops sobbing. She looks up, her eyes shining even from a distance, distorted by tears. "Who's there?"
"My name is Sophie, I'm a cleric of the Light...and your father is here also..." She frowns glancing back at him as she adds, "But he's afraid to come closer to you..." She steps nearer to the tree "Could we talk? I heard about what happened..."
"Go away," she says sharply. "Go away and take him with you. What punishment does the Light demand for abandoning your wife and child? Hit him with that and then we can talk."
Sophie sighs, replying wearily, "Telanna... please… I'm tired... I've been fighting zombies and machines all day..." Her voice is pleading, "I know that you're hurt…but I don't want to fight with you…or your father… I can't leave you here alone." She takes a few more steps forward, speaking softly, "Please?"
Telanna scoffs. "I'm sorry my problems are such an inconvenience to you. I'm sorry he dragged you out here to fight his battle for him, again. I'm sorry if you're too stupid and stubborn to see that. Take him out of here. I can't stand to look at him."
Sophie pauses for a moment, suppressing some reflex response, before adding in a quiet controlled voice, "He didn't ask me to come here… I didn't even talk to him about it until I asked him to help me find you…because I know nothing about the wilderness." She glances back at the old druid, "Maybe it would be better if you went back to the feast, Sorel." She sighs wearily, turning back to the tree, "I'm not your enemy, I wish we had talked before this…but we didn't." She pauses for a moment before adding quietly, "You are right about one thing, I am stubborn."
Sorel appears grateful at the opportunity to leave, but he remains still. "I cannot leave you here," he says. "You will get lost."
"Telanna will help me." Sophie replies calmly.[/b]
[color=orange]Telanna storms forward, her eyes boring into Sorel. "Get OUT!" she shouts, pointing towards the village with a trembling hand. "You get out and never show your face in this place again. Murderer!" Fresh tears bud in her eyes.
For a moment it looks as if Sorel would join her in tears. Instead he bows his head silently, and departs.
Sophie watches the exchange in silence, her eyes troubled.
Telanna glares at Sorel as he leaves, as if her hate would push him out faster. Then she looks at Sophie. "Why can't you just leave me alone?"
"Because I care?" Sophie says quietly, meeting the gaze, "Would you like to be alone? I'll wait nearby...in case you want to be with someone..." She adds quietly, "No one should be alone if they don't want to be. Maybe you'll change your mind." She looks around somewhat haplessly, then begins awkwardly stumbling through the brush towards a nearby rock. She groans under her breath as she steps in an unseen patch of mud.
Telanna makes a pained expression. "No, no, not that way. There's a wasp's--come here," she says, moving forward and pulling Sophie gently away from harm and worse, a ruined dress. It is the dress Telanna now notices. "Wow, that's a gorgeous dress. Did you make it yourself?"
Sophie stumbles back with a frown, glancing around for the wasp, "Wasp? ...whe...where?"
"It's not important, this late in the year they're probably all dead anyway. But dead wasps would stick to the mud," Telanna adds. "So where'd you get that dress?"
The priestess sighs in relief at this, looking down at her now muddied silk dress sadly, "...I had it made in my home town, Saraband... I know a great seamstress there..." She brushes at it for a moment half-heartedly, then gives up with a sigh, "Yeah..." She smiles ruefully, looking up at the druidess, "I'm a city girl if you couldn't tell."
Telanna offers Sophie a laugh. "Nothing wrong with that. Can't help where you're born." She laughs again, and the sound loses some of its mirth, and becomes rueful. "No, you can't, can you?"
Sophie looks down, sighing sadly, "No... No, you can't..." She looks at Telanna with concern, "I heard one version of what happened...but after...coming here, I can't believe its that simple... " She hesitates then shakes her head, "I'm sorry...if you don't want to talk about it..."
Telanna's face flattens into a thin, bitter smile. "There's really nothing to talk about," she says, oddly calm. "My mother gave birth to me, and then died. My father left us both. This all happened within the span of a day. It really is that simple. What other way could it be?"
Sophie stares at the druidess before finally managing, her voice strained, "You mean...that Sorel abandoned you...as a newborn?"
Telanna nods rapidly, biting down on her bottom lip. "And hours after I was born, my mother died. So because of that, I had no one. I just--I can't forgive him for that. I don't care how long it's been. That's not something you can apologize for."
Sophie looks down at the ground quietly, whispering sadly, "...no...that kind of pain doesn't go away..." She looks up, putting a hand on the druidess' shoulder, "Come on, let's go sit down somewhere..."
Telanna takes Sophie to the base of the great oak she had been under beforehand. "It's always dry here, even in winter," she says quietly. "Do you know what a dryad is?" she asks. "It's alright if you don't, most people don't."
Sophie looks up at the tree, questioning quietly, "A tree spirit? Does one live here?" Her eyes widen as looks around again, "This is a sacred place then?"
"It is a sacred place," Telanna says. "This is...this was my mother's tree. It's called brielle. Her name was Oihane. She named me Telanna." Telanna runs her hands along the roots of the tree. "Telanna means lark. What does your name mean, Sophie?"
"I...I don't know..." Sophie admits with a frown, looking at the tree sadly since the revelation that it had belonged to Telanna's mother.
Telanna looks at Sophie with sadness. "Doesn't that bother you? A name can tell you who you are...where you come from. Guess you didn't need that though. You probably had parents, and sisters, and brothers..."
"Yeah..." Sophie sighs quietly, "I do... One older and four younger... Alastor, Kate, Sally, Lanette, and Benjamin..." She frowns, "Which is how I knew about what happened tonight..." She sighs heavily, "My oldest brother...well...he's really my half-brother, his father was some wanadering swordsman, is a real ass." She rubs her forehead as if she had a headache, "He would be the Doctor Alastor Coventry who...messed things up tonight." She shakes her head, "I don't know how he knows your father...not really... This is the first time I've seen him in three years." She frowns, "He wanted me to try...well...to seperate what he did from your father...but...after what you told me..."
"Doctor Coventry? You mean the man Sorel left for dead?" Telanna laughs, a harsh and dissonant sound. "I don't believe--so not only did he go out of his way to ruin my night, he sent his little sister after me to apologize? Instead of coming himself? What a coward! I guess he learned a trick or two from the old man."
"He didn't want me to apologize..." Sophie frowns, looking down at the ground, "He wanted me to make him out to be an ass so you wouldn't blame Sorel." She adds, "Well, he is an ass, there's no denying it but..." She shakes her head, sighing wearily, "This is so...convoluted..."
"Why? Why is he so intent on making a man who left him to die look good? What kind of tricks did Sorel pull? How dumb is your brother?"
"He's not dumb...quite the opposite...just...it's like he has selective insight..." Sophie frowns, "But three years ago, he was always so negative...finding fault with everything... What made him ignore what your father did?" She rubs her chin thoughtfully, "Maybe its his own father issues coming out... I don't know, I'll ask Brother Hal what he thinks, he'll make sense of this." She then adds quietly, "I just wish I know what happened with him, Sorel, and the Lady Haubrekt."
Telanna suddenly moves to her feet. "I think I'll ask him," she says. She lowers a hand to help Sophie up. "Come on, take me to him."
"Brother Hal?" Sophie asks with a frown, slowly standing and brushing off her dress, "...or my brother?"
"I don't care," Telanna says, ignoring the bits of bark that clung to her clothes. "Whichever one we find first."
"Well... Hal went to bed awhile ago..." Sophie frowns but nods, "...but Alastor should still be around somewhere." She then grimances, "But you'll have to get me out of this forest."
"That won't be a problem," Telanna says, already walking out of the clearing and picking a path identical to the one Sorel chose to preserve Sophie's dress. "I know these woods better than anyone. I grew up here."
Sophie shakes her head sadly.
A short while later and the two re-emerge in the middle of the feast clearing, which is slightly emptier than they'd left it as several have filtered off to bed. Telanna looks around.
"He's not here..." Telanna says. "Do you know where he went?"
"We had...an argument before I came..." Sophie says quietly, "He might be sulking somewhere." The priestess looks around quietly, then she pauses, "Oh, there he is, over there with Sheila."
"What? That's not your brother. Your brother is a red-haired slime...wait...those are his clothes, and his gla--THAT BASTARD!" she shouts, storming towards him. "YOU STOLE THE DWARF'S SHIELD!"

Posted by: Kaihaku Wed Oct 03, 2007 6:52 am

QUOTE (Aldur @ Tue Oct 02, 2007 5:53 pm)
((Yeah, the real mistake is drama Kria isn't part of...))

((Then there has been a TERRIBLE mistake. Like, 9.2 on the Dicem scale.))

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Wed Oct 03, 2007 7:03 am
"THAT BASTARD!" Telanna shouts, storming towards him. "YOU STOLE THE DWARF'S SHIELD!" "Getting to know you, getting to know all about you." The Doctor replies, "Getting to like you, getting to hope yo..." He glances up with a frown. "My, you are quick. How long did it take you to figure that out."
Telanna's hand flinches. "I ought to slap you again! What kind of Doctor loots the people he isn't good enough to heal?"
"Eh?" Sheila asks. "Wait, what?"
"This kind." The Doctor smiles.
Sophie follows the druidess with a worried frown.
"But you--he just--oooh!" Telanna cries out in frustration. "Now I see why you're on his side, you're rotten. Rotten! I was wrong about you. Thought you were a good person, and Sorel was using you. But no!"
"What is a good person?" The Doctor asks with a glare, "Explain to..."
He is silenced by a glare from Sophie.
"Someone mind explaining to me what the shit is going on?" Sheila asks.
"What the--who talks like that?" Telanna asks, bewildered, before turning on Coventry. "A good person? Gee, I don't know, maybe someone who doesn't rob the helpless, someone who isn't in league with abandoners!"
"What are any of you talking about?!" Sheila shouts.
The Doctor glances at Sophie oddly at the 'abandoners', then turns to Telanna, "I don..." He frowns, glaring at Sheila as she shouts.
Sophie holds up her hands, speaking firmly, "Could we act more civil? Please, so we don't ruin the feast for everyone else?"
"Oh, yes," Telanna says, glaring around at the merrymakers. "Enjoy your food!"
"I thought you went to bed?" Sheila says to Sophie, shaking her head. "Well, doesn't matter now, I guess. I can be civil... If someone can tell me what all the shouting is about!"
Sophie sighs, looking at the druidess helplessly.
*Alexander approaches the arguing group, having heard only glimpses of it.* "What's going on?"
Sophie looks up at the familar voice, smile coming to her face desite it all, "Al...alexander...."
Telanna turns around, her hair flying out behind her. "Who are you?" She glares at Coventry. "Going to get the entire village involved, are you?"
*Alexander nods to Sophie, smiling softly in response, but just briefly.* "Sophie, what's all the fighting about?"
"What a fool you are." The Doctor replies scornfully to Telanna, "You blame me for the meddling of stuck up religious nut jobs?"
*Alexander's brow furrows at the Doctor.* "I don't know who you are, but this is hardly the place to be arguing. My brother worked very hard to prepare this feast, and if this can't wait, please take it elsewhere at the very least."
"I don't know why you're getting indignant at me when I still don't know what you look like, or why you're using your little sister to stick up for a man who left you to die! And that's not even the worst of it!"
Sophie frowns, stepping over to the hero and looking up at him, "Alexander, um, it's complicated..." She glances at Telanna, "...but maybe..." She moans, "If they would just act like adults..."
The Doctor glares at Telanna, "What should I do then, wise one?"
"Tell me what's going on!" Sheila responds. "That's what!"
"I said wise one...but with the inherent sarcasm I can see how you would think it was directed at you." The Doctor replies to Sheila.
"Oh for the love of--THIS man" she points to Coventry "was left to die by Sorel. Then he came back, and after robbing a crippled dwarf and hitting on me he sent his little sister" she points at Sophie "to explain. Happy now?!"
"No! Because none of that makes any sense!" Sheila shouts. "Well, except for the hitting on people part. See Doc, I told you calling everyone a whore would get you in trouble..."
"You're damn right it doesn't make any sense!" Telanna shouts. "Why do you think I wanted some damn answers?!"
"What do you mean he robbed a crippled dwarf?" Sheila asks. "We've been in battle constantly an' everyone's been at the feast since."
*Alexander frowns. Left him to die?* "Sophie, you're related to him?...Please, everyone, calm down. There's no need to make a scene here."
"OK, I know I'm not one to talk, but seriously, lower your damn voice!" Sheila says, irately to Telanna. "How is it that a person exists louder than I am?!"
"It was during the battle! The battle! You know, with the metal monsters and the undead? The one where a bunch of people had their psyches shattered? That battle! You remember that?" Telanna says, less loudly but no less urgently.
"What, you... Oh! You mean one of the other squads? A dwarf from them?" Sheila asks. She frowns. "Why the hell would he parade it around, then?"
The Doctor sneers at Telanna, "You fool, the more you speak, the more ignorant you reveal yourself to be!" He laughs scornfully, "You parade that I was left to die but you know nothing about the circumstances."
"If he really was gonna steal it, why carry it in full view of everyone who knew the dwarf?" Sheila wonders aloud.
"Well gosh!" Telanna says. "I'm sorry, I couldn't think of any circumstances offhand where someone would leave you to die and then you'd hit on their daughter and then send your little sister to apologize. I guess that didn't work out on my teeny tiny brain. Forgive me?"
Sophie moans, "Oh no..."
"OK, ya know what? Talking time points. Coventry, give yer side. Then Telanna, give yer side. Then whoever else, give yer side," Sheila says with a sigh. "Ready? Go!"
"SHUT UP!" Telanna shouts at Sheila.
"MAKE ME!" Sheila roars back, her temper breaking. "YOU DON'T COME UP AND ACCUSE ONE OF THE RANGERS WITHOUT PROOF YOU MORON!"
((TheUnknownMarine: And now I roll a Will save.
OnlineHost: TheUnknownMarine rolled 1 20-sided die: 3 And this, gentlemen, is the result of a bad roll and the Short Fuse flaw.))
"HOW ABOUT A LACK OF DENIAL, YOU BRAIN-DEAD TWIT?!" Telanna screams. "HEY MAYBE IT'S ANOTHER ONE OF THOSE ITTY BITTY DETAILS THAT ESCAPED YOUR ATTENTION?!"
Alexander: "....If you don't lower your voices right now, I'll personally have you removed from this feast until you can prove that you're capable of acting with a shred of civility. Do I make myself clear?"
"BARKY BINT!" Sheila screams. "I MISS NOTHING!"
Sheila steps forward and slaps Telanna across the face.
Moving with surprising speed, an old man runs out of the woods, pointing his staff at Sheila. He is panting, out of breath. "Do not. Touch. My daughter."
Telanna rubs her face and races her hand to strike back, but the sight of Sorel stops her. "What are you--GO AWAY!"
Alexander: "Sorel, thank the Light!"
The Doctor mutters darkly, "Violence is always the answer." He shakes his head sadly, looking at Sophie pointly.
The priestess shakes her head, replying in a weary and hurt voice, "Alastor...why did you..."
"Your stupid daughter is throwing around stupid accusations and stupider insults!" Sheila shouts. "Maybe if she didn't act like a JERK I wouldn't need to slap the JERKINESS out of her!"
"If you cannot control your temper perhaps you should not stand so close to children," Sorel says evenly, though there is an edge in his voice.
"Well she certainly ACTS like one!" Sheila yells, throwing her hands in the air. "I'm sooo sorry for sticking up for someone that saved a goddamn good friend's life! No, really!"
"Who, precisely, did you stick up for?" Sorel asks. "I see no one here who cannot defend themselves. No one here who needs your...protection."
Telanna looks desperately at Sophie, having no idea what is happening.
"Needs my protection?" Sheila says, glaring. "Needing isn't the point! If good people don't stand together and stick up for other good people then what's the use, huh?!"
Sophie looks up to Alexander, her eyes pleadingly him to handle this.
*Alexander shakes his head.* "I don't know the full story, nor am I sure I want to know, but this is ridiculous. I want everyone to be quiet for just a minute."
((TheUnknownMarine: SAVE DAMN YOU
OnlineHost: TheUnknownMarine rolled 1 20-sided die: 6
RustySFC: LOL))
"If good people cannot confront other good people without resorting to violence, what does the word 'good' even mean?" Sorel replies.
"IT WAS A FREAKIN' SLAP ON THE FACE! I'VE BEEN STABBED, SHOT, SLASHED, AND BURNED! A SLAP IS NOTHING!" Sheila roars. She proceeds in a quieter voice, though no less angry.
"Oh shut up! 'Oh, you can't possibly know real suffering, you haven't suffered like me'. You don't slap people, you stupid bitch!" Telanna shouts, completely ignoring the times she both slapped and threatened to slap Doctor Coventry.
*Alexander turns to Sheila.* "Leave and get some rest. You're doing yourself, nor anyone else, any good by letting your temper get the best of you. Please."
"Besides, a word can hurt just as much as a slap, and there were... Oh... Oh no you didn't..." Sheila says, turning to Telanna.
"Nothing..." The Doctor laughs mirthlessly, shaking his head, his voice breaking, "Nothing at all." Then, he whispers a word and simply vanishes.
Sorel intersperses himself between Sheila and Telanna. "Stop. Now."
Sheila doesn't move forward, but her head tilts past Sorel's shoulder to glare at Telanna.
Sorel tilts his head to block Sheila's. "You need sleep."
Sheila continues to weave her head until she gets her talk out.
"Listen, you self centered TODDLER... Don't ask about my suffering... Don't ask about ANYONE'S suffering... If you friggin' think no one has suffered as much as you have... You're just proving your IGNORANCE and IMMATURITY!" Sheila shouts. She then takes a deep breath, seeming to calm. "And..." she adds, calmly. "I slap who I feel like when I feel they deserve to be slapped. Don't tell me what I can and can't do. I'm done here," Sheila says, facing Sorel. "I will apologize to YOU, since you actually seemed ta keep yer cool. Sorry for the ruckus."
"That's not what I said, you stuck-up--" Telanna starts, but she grinds her teeth and shuts up.
Sheila turns to leave. "If you have a goddamn complaint about the Doc, take it up with our C/O, Jim." She begins walking away, hands in her pockets.
*Alexander thinks to himself. I'm sure she won't only be complaining about him, if she does....* "..."
"Well, thanks for that. Any more women you've got around here who might want to step in on your behalf?" Telanna says, glaring at the spot Coventry was but keeping her voice even.
"Wha... THE COWARD!"
The threat of Sheila gone, Sorel turns and looks helplessly at Sophie. "What...what happened?"
Sophie looks at the weary druid, her voice drained, "Tomorrow..." She looks down, "Tomorrow, I'll talk to Brother Hal...and we can all sit down... Maybe we can work this mess out."
She glances at where her brother had been, "...maybe..."
"Whatever happened in the past, we have to move past it." *Alexander says, looking at Telanna.* "I didn't even see that man in the battle, but if what you say is true, we'll have to make sure he is more mindful of his actions in the future."
*Alex continues.* "However, we have to remain calm and collected or things will continue to go nowhere. Like it or not, he's an ally, and I'd like to think we could at least be civil as allies, if not friends."
Sophie frowns slightly, speaking quietly in reply to Alex, "He can transform his shape..."
*Alexander nods.* "That would explain it."
"He is a good man," Sorel says, looking at the ground. "He just...makes poor decisions."
Alexander: "Indeed. The way he regarded religion, I'm beginning to wonder if he has some horrible memory associated with it or if he simply has not found it. Hopefully we can guide him towards better decisions; not just in battle, but in life as well."
Sorel pulls a wry face. "He does not..." he looks at Sophie, "He does not...like to be guided."
*Alexander frowns and nods.* "Often is the case."
: Telanna, still shaking with anger, bites down on her lip. "I...I need to go to bed." She looks over at Sophie. "Sorry." Without a glance at Sorel, she leaves.

Posted by: Kaihaku Wed Oct 03, 2007 7:11 am
To clarify... "If good people cannot confront other good people without resorting to violence, what does the word 'good' even mean?" Sorel replies. "Nothing..." The Doctor laughs mirthlessly, shaking his head, his voice breaking, "Nothing at all." Then, he whispers a word and simply vanishes.
I'm am a slow typer.

Posted by: Dark Maiden Wed Oct 03, 2007 2:51 pm
[I so cannot believe that happened. I'm kind of glad I wasn't involved. ]

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Wed Oct 03, 2007 3:07 pm

QUOTE (Dark Maiden @ Wed Oct 03, 2007 9:51 am)
[I so cannot believe that happened. I'm kind of glad I wasn't involved. ]

[I'm kind of jealous of you]

Posted by: Alpha Wed Oct 03, 2007 11:59 pm
Coming back into the main village area, the green haired elf spots Alexander standing near a group and walks over to him, finishing off the last of the fruits he’d picked up earlier. : “What ho there, fearless leader,” Laeral says, grinning. “Has anything interesting been going on here?” he asks.
*Alexander turns to face Laeralas, frowning and nodding.*
: "Yes, there was just an argument. I don't know all the details, but apparently Sophie's brother is with the Rangers and he's caused quite a stir with Sorel's group...something in the past. I don't know what to make of it, but Sheila sure has one nasty temper. She and Telanna got into a big fight while Sophie's brother just disappeared." *He sighs.* "It's just really a bad situation. Unless they can keep their tempers down, things will only escalade."
: “Hm,” Laeral comments, his smile being replaced with a frown to match Alexander’s. “Unfortunate, but such things happen when so many come together. There are quite a few of us here, after all. Hopefully things will resolve themselves, especially if our groups are to stay as one.” And the elf pauses.
: “Is that confirmed, by the way?” he asks. “Are you planning on having our Force join with these other groups?”
*Alexander nods.*
: "We're definitely going to ally with them. Whether or not we actually join them in battle or not is yet to be determined. We need to do a fair amount of planning and decide where our next courses of actions are as well as share intelligence."
: “I see…,” the daggerspell says slowly. And for a few moments, Laeralas doesn’t say anything, but looks contemplative, obviously thinking on something.
: “So will we be staying in this village for a few days at least, do you know?” he asks.
*Nodding again, Alex responds.*
: "Yes, I think so. I'll let you know more when we sort out what's going on. I'm not too worried about losing ground since we can teleport. I don't want to sit around all day planning, but I'd rather have a good plan set than run blindly at the enemy."
: “Yes, that makes sense,” Laeralas replies. “In that case, will you give me leave to visit my village tomorrow? I’ll prepare two spells of teleport so I can come back on the same day,” and the daggerspell pauses, smiling sheepishly. “It’s just that being here, despite differences, reminds me of Stamp, and as I haven’t been there in quite a long while, I’m yearning to visit. Plus, I’d like to see if my brother is there. I haven’t seen him in a couple years now, you see,” he adds.
*Alexander nods.*
: "Okay. Just be careful. If I have a meeting with the group tomorrow to explain what's going on, I'll inform you of what you missed when you return."
Laeralas nods in response.
: “My thanks,” he says. “I can’t see any problems arising with the teleport. As I know the area so well; it’s extremely unlikely I’ll be off target. And in that case, I’d better be off to prepare the spells for tomorrow. I’ll leave early in the morning, meaning I should get back before it’s dark here.” And the elf turns to leave.
: “Well then, goodnight Alexander.”
*Alexander nods in response.*
: "Good night, Laeralas."

Posted by: Wandering Dezorian Thu Oct 04, 2007 12:51 am
The two gnomes watch the explosion with wide eyes. Johann looks startled, while Sha'aasta's face flickers between amusement and outright laughter. "I've never seen a two-year old that tall before, let alone 3 of them," she murmers. "Think we should do anything?" Johann asks.
"And not find out how the story ends?" Sha'aasta raised an eyebrow, adding, "Though I think this clinches your argument about the others."

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Thu Oct 04, 2007 12:51 am
In other areas of the feast not touched by the incessant spark of inter-party conflict, the music is still being played and people still chat with each other as plate after plate is consumed and washed down with ale. Max sits down at a table now nearly deserted, mug of ale in hand. He slowly views the revelrie with a smile as he slowly drains his mug and relaxes.
Long having finished her meal, consisting mainly of fruit and elven fare, the Queen of Guardiana rests underneath a mighty oak. a large pad of paper is balanced in her lap and a pencil is moving in her hand. A small, contented smile on her face, Anri silently sketches on the large pad, a picture slowly taking shape.

Posted by: Arcdragnbreth Thu Oct 04, 2007 3:17 am
"Well... so much for peace and quiet," Ashathel said, turning back to the young elven girls he was talking to. "Who wants to dance?" ~~~~~ "Sorel..." Moving closer to the woods, but remaining in view of the druid, the monk beckoned for Sorel to come closer.

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Thu Oct 04, 2007 4:53 am
((This is a very long Gilliam post that technically happens way back where I put that placeholder.)) The picture was old. Ancient, in fact. As ancient as the locker Gilliam had taken it from. As ancient as the mouldering clothes, books, and assorted possessions within the same locker.
The picture depicted a young soldier embracing a young woman in a white coat-like outfit. Gilliam held the scrap of filmy material in one metal hand like it might fly away at any moment.
http://gh.ffshrine.org/song/1757/13
”Ilyana...'
Gilliam had not felt physical sensation in over a millennium, but he still recalled the hand that held his, the arms encircling his form. He remembered her face all too well, and her form. He remembered...
Ilyana was walking with him again. The spires of Telnoradil's magnificent central airgarden rose all around them as they slowly explored the city that was renowned for its botany and biological displays.
Ilyana was laughing with him again. Holograms projected a merry scene of absurdity and comedy onto the wall of the darkened room. They were the only two in the room, but the world seemed full to the brim as they watched the show in each other's company.
Ilyana was talking with him again. They were sitting at a simple restaurant table in a city that was now dust and ruin but used to be a bustling metropolis. Whenever she started talking about her work, he only understood about half of it, the complication interplay of physics and magic of the work of a Metaphan scholar-scientist beyond him... But even in those moments, he felt content.
Ilyana was dying with him again. Gilliam watched in horror as nuclear fire consumed the world he knew... He watched in terror as he saw a missile streak towards the city he knew Ilyana had taken refuge in. He watched and could only watch as that terrible cloud arose over the metropolis, and the world he had been a part of died twice over.
There were still ghosts all around this place, ghosts beyond the ones the mementos around Gilliam conjured up. He could feel them. He knew most of them, in another life. Their presences brushed up against his mind like a cool wind that slightly chilled his soul. Sometimes it was unpleasant, and other times it felt oddly right... Ancient nostalgia stirring in his mind as memories of people in the base rose in his mind like bubbles rising from a deep, deep spring's bottom.
Gilliam gradually became aware of light softly shedding around him. Ghosts. Luminous beings floated silently around him, still bearing their marks of death and looking at the metal-shod Ancient with a pleading expression. Gilliam even recognized most of them.
One of the ghosts, a pale, long haired woman he remembered worked in the same section as Ilyana used to, spoke to Gilliam. “Protect them..” she whispers. “In the end... They are who we died for...” the ghosts began to fade, as they continued their plea. “The children of the future... You must redeem us... our sacrifice for them... You are the last...”
“I am the last...” Gilliam repeated, quietly as the ghosts vanished one by one, leaving him alone in the room. “Then... those of the past will continue on, for the sake of the future...” Gilliam murmurs as he turns to leave. “I so swear it.”
Gilliam spared one glance at the bunk by which he had stood for so long, then stomped out, leaving the opened locker behind.
The locker's nameplate held a very simple inscription: Thornton, Gilliam.
----------
((This is at the feast.))
Jim was just finishing up a game of chess. A mostly empty plate laid by him, as well as a half full glass of elven wine. A few scraps of beef and meat pie still sit, cooling on the plate.
Holzgeist had waited. Oh, how he had waited... patiently, silently, quietly, watching his prey. The two armored figures had been occupied for long enough... the male's attention should be almost completely focused, should have labelled Holzgeist as mere background...
Finally, as the male reached an arm to one of the wooden figures, the wolf struck. In a blinding flash of speed, the wolf was there and gone. Along with the remains of Jim's dinner.
Jim turns, arching an eyebrow at his empty plate and the wolf speeding away.
"Well..." he sighs, grabbing his plate and heading towards one of the plates of food still on the table. "That was a bit rude to say the least..."
Jim fills his plate with more food and walks towards his seat again.
Holzgeist lay down quietly as the male resumed his seat. This was good... the two-legs seemed willing to eat something they hadn't killed, hadn't worked for, hadn't earned themselves, but the idea of eating served food just struck the wolf wrong. Too much like those tame dogs he kept finding near the cities. But if he stole the food, especially from the leader of the two-legs, then he had earned it." Then he could eat it. Besides, it was more fun that way.
Still, that first plate had been awfully small... he was still hungry... and so he waited, watching to see what the male would do with his next plate.
Jim puts the food down and, still standing, moves a piece on the chessboard. "Check."
Good. The male was already starting to play with his wooden sticks again. Holzgeist could wait... he could... but that food smelled awfully good. Just let him move two more sticks. Holzgeist could wait for two more sticks...
The opponent of the leader of the Rangers looks at her pieces with a frown, taking a long time to think. Finally, after what seems like an eternity, she moves a single piece a single space.
Soo hungry... no. Patience. But that food smelled so good... but the male would be alert this time!
Jim looks intently at the board, still not sitting. He drums his fingers on the table as he continues to look at the game, intently.
This wasn't good. The male was alert, he was ready. He wasn't sitting down. No, the food wasn't going to be his... Such is the life of a wolf. But still, it would be fun to see what the male did if he made a rush for it. Scarcely had the thought entered his mind when the wolf lept forward, dashing towards the table, straight for the food. But at the last minute, he swerved away, rushing back towards the treeline.
Jim's leg immediately lashes out, aiming for the wolf's legs as he nears him. Unfortunately the wolf is too fast, and Jim's luck too horrid. The leader of the Rangers very quietly murmurs a curse as his foot slams into the table's leg.
The leg had lashed out, and if he had tried for the food, he would have been tripped in mid flight. But he hadn't been there, had he? Oh, but this was fun! Spinning around, he watched the male from 10 feet away, his tongue hanging out in silent laughter.
Jim shakes his head at the wolf, a wry grin appearing on his face as he whispers something into a device attached to his chest.
It looked like the male was accepting the game. But by the male's rules... If only Holzgeist could understand the speech of the two legs... Still, the game should be interesting.
Holzgeist heard a pair of feet softly coming up on him from behind.
Behind him! Quickly, the wolf dodged to the side, ready to see how the game would develop.
Jim sits back down and hunches over his dinner as Sheila dashes for the wolf in a flying tackle now that she'd been spotted.
Sheila leaps into the air and promptly slams into the ground as the wolf bounds out of the way.
"Another female!' the wolf thought. The male's mate? The scents didn't quite seem right for that, though... No matter. This game should still be fun.
"Dyaaaaaaaaaaaaaah!!!! Ach!" Sheila spits out leaves and dirt as she rolls into a standing position. She frowns. "Oh... Probably should've tried that sober..."
Jim sighs and gets up from the table, walking a short distance away to speak with one of the other Rangers.
If only he could understand what the two legs were saying to each other? Still, it was probably a challenge to the game. Grinning widely, the wolf rushed forward to bop the female with his nose, trying to tip her over backwards before he ran on.
Sheila's hands cartwheel around as she smacks the ground again, the wolf pushing her over with easy.
"Damn you, wolf!" she shouts, shaking a fist in the air. "Let me sober up first!"
Oh, but this game would be fun... and the male had left his food undefended! Still, the female was between him and the table... and still challenging him, from what he could read of two-legged body posture. Still shaking with silent laughter, the wolf sat down facing the female, waiting to see what the next move of the game would be.
Sheila gets up, brushes herself off and glares at the wolf before dashing off into the crowd.
Startled, Holzgeist felt his ears go flat against his head. What could that mean? To leave the food undefended? To rush away from the game? Unless she was bringing more two legs to join in... Still, an invitation was an invitation, and with a speed revealing the roots of his name, the wolf lept onto the table to claim his reward.
As soon as the wolf tugs on the meat, he pulls taut a string attached to the steak. The string pulls something loose from a cylinder covered by Jim's discarded napkin and a deafening bang erupts in Holzgeist's ears, followed by a blinding flash.
Jim calmly walks over and moves the final piece on the board with a smile.
"Checkmate," Jim says as he knocks over the black king with a knight.
"Boo!" Sha'aasta shouts cheerfully from the sidelines. "Where's the sportsmanship? Where's the honor? All of that effort, all that magnificence, and you need a booby trap to save your dinner?"
Johann laughs. "Hey, Holzgeist's still alive. It's better than it'd be if I caught him."
Sha'aasta looks skeptical. "Yeah?"
Johann shrugs. "Ever hear of reincarnation? He wasn't always a wolf."
Sha'aasta snorts. "Yeah, that's believable. Johann goody-too-shoes, zapping some poor schoolkid into a beast for stealing his cookie when he wasn't looking."
"Sportsmanship?" Jim says with a smile. "Madam, what I did was perfectly sporting. Many hunters use traps to ensure their dinner... I just used a trap to ensure I had dinner in a different way."
"Looks a little well done." the gnome says pointedly, staring at the smoking remains of the plate.
Jim chuckles and scraps the burnt meat onto the ground in front of the wolf. He then splits open a potato also on the plate.
"Bait's a bit overcooked for my taste, but the potato is nice and baked still," Jim says with a smile as he forks into it.
Holzgeist whimpers as his vision returns. His ears were still ringing from whatever the male had done, and the game didn't seem nearly as much fun now.
With as much dignity as he could muster, the wolf hopped off the table and sat on the ground behind the male, nodding his head once in the way he had seen two-legs do before, and waiting.
"Oh, this should be a hoot." Johann murmured.
"The wolf is yours, right?" Jim asks as he nudges the burnt meat towards the wolf with his boot. "He's really big. Dire?"
Sha'aasta skips up towards the man, grinning widely as she stares at his kneecap, then looks up towards his face. "Dunno. It's kinda hard to guage height from down here."
Jim swallows a mouthful of potato and laughs. "I suppose. Everything's relative, eh?"
Sha'aasta grins widely. Johann chuckles, too. "Yeah, we have to rely on his word." he says wryly. "He claims that he's about as big and mean as they come."
"And she still manages to bully or cajole him into doing anything she wants." he adds with a sour grimace, as Holzgeist flops over for a belly rubbing from Sha'aasta.
"Well I'll grant him the big," Jim says, looking at the wolf as he eats another bite of potato. "Doesn't seem too mean, though." Jim chuckles again at Johann's last statement.
"Eh, it's all relative, like you said." Sha'aasta says proudly from her perch on Holzgeist's belly. "Maybe he really is all that mean. I'm just better."
"Perhaps," Jim says, wryly as he continues to poke at his food. "You're with Alexander's group, yes?"
Johann and Sha'aasta stare at each other for a minute, then look almost sheepishly towards the corner of the party where the explosive screaming had been occurring a few minutes ago.
"Do we admit it?" Sha'aasta said nervously.
"Nah." Johann says in a stage whisper. "We'd lose any respect we might've had. And at our height, you can't afford to lose much."
With exaggerated casualness, he turns back to Jim. "Never heard of 'em. Nope."
"I understand," Jim says with an exaggerated nod.
"And you're one of those folk who came down from those giant enchanted flying oversized bathtubs, right?" Johann adds curiously. "I'll admit, they look mighty uncomfortable, but what a way to travel!"
"I dunno." Sha'aasta says seriously. "The flying part looked like fun, but the explosive crash at the end looked like it would spoil whatever good time you were having."
"Depending on the bathtub, you can get quite comfortable," Jim says wryly. "Which is a shame ours is more like a bucket than a bathtub." Jim frowns as Sha'aasta mentions the crash, but says nothing.
"A flying bucket." Johann muses, trying to imagine what such a craft would look like. "Now that would be something to see."
"To damp for me. My swimming's not all that good." Sha'aasta notes dubiously.
"Might not want to visit Waral, then..." Jim says, poking at his plate once more.
"Like I said, too damp for me." Sha'aasta says with feigned shudder. Johann looks curious. "Is that some costal country?"
Sha'aasta shakes her head. "Town on some island in the middle of more water than a more kindly God would have inflicted on us poor land-dwellers."
"Ah." Johann says, filing that tidbit away. "So is that where you're from, then?" he asks Jim curiously.
Jim shakes his head. "Nope."
Johann nods wisely. "Ah. One town down. Two, since I'm pretty sure I didn't notice any flying buckets back home."
"More than that," Sha'aasta points out brightly, "since we didn't run into any while we were tagging along with Alexan... I mean, that leader-type guy who doesn't even resemble Alexander, and would never get involved with a team of screaming teenagers fighting over who had the biggest reason to cry about life. Nope, don't know them at all." she adds innocently.
"Screaming teenagers?" Jim asks, arching an eyebrow.
"And how many polite labels can you come up with? There's got to be a reason for that. I'd say it was that time of month, but I think one or two of 'em's male, so that doesn't work. Mind control magic might work, but I thought we killed all the mind controller... Wait, that's it!" she exclaims suddenly.
"Johann must have taken over their minds! That's why they're acting so increadibly childishly!" she continues, nodding to herself. "It's all so clear now!"
Jim frowns. "What happened?"
"Johann controlled their minds!" Sha'aasta responds decisively. "Weren't you listening? He controlled their... mppht!" she stops, looking impishly at Johann, who had just wrapped a hand over her mouth.
"Just a little post-battle nerves working their way out," the diviner said by way of an explaination. "And a bit of family history, from the sounds of it."
"So basically there was a fight," Jim says with a sigh. "Who was involved? "
Johann looks curiously at Jim, then shrugs. "Fraid I don't rightly remember, sir." he says in an overdone commoner accent. "Reckon I had a might much to drink, foggled my vision. Yep. Twern't much of a fight ta begin with, anywho. Just a lot of angry words. Yep, no fun at all."
Jim sighs. "Well, I'll probably hear of it soon enough, no reason to let it ruin the night. Where were we?"
"We'd removed, oh, say, about a hundred square miles from guessing where you were from."
Sha'aasta said, pushing Johanns hand out of the way.
"Leaving a few hundred thousand left." Johann pointed out.
Jim laughes, almost choking a little on the mouthful of food he had. He swallows, then replies. "You're going to have a lot more to go through before you get it."
"Oh? You're from out in the ether?" Johann says. "Or from another plane entirely? That would explain the flying buckets."
"Second choice. I'm surprised you guesses, even with the buckets. Not many know about the planes here, except when it comes to the devils and demons," Jim says before taking a sip of wine. "So where are you from?"
"Oh, Gods. Don't compliment him, especially not on his mind. You see how big his head is already?" Sha'aasta warned grumpily. "A few more compliments in the right places, and blooie!, we'll be picking brains all out of our clothing. And I hate washing brains out of my dress."
"At least you'll look smart," Jim comments.
Sha'aasta looks startled for a moment, then bursts out laughing. Johann splutters, trying to think of something to say. Jim just laughs.
Johann finally decides that he'd been outmatched, and it was time for a verbal retreat. "Anyways," he says irritatedly, "We're just from a little village of our kind, out in the woods somewhere. We figured it'd be better to squish the Strife Lords before they got around to squishing our home. And this seemed to be a group of like-minded squishers."
"Understandable. I commend your insight and courage. Most small villages are content to just vanish into the background in times like these," Jim says with a nod. "Few folk are willing to take such a risk."
Johann opens his mouth to reply, when Sha'aasta wraps her arms around his head. "What did I warn you about complimenting him?" she says fiercely. "Now quick! Insult him while I try to hold his head together. We can do it if we move fast!"
"Hmmm," Jim says with a wry grin. "From my earlier observations, you appear to be a poor trainer of wolves." Jim turns to Shaa'sta. "Will that work?"
"Dunno." she says seriously. "Given how wolves feel about trainers, that might be a compliment. At least it was roundabout enough that it isn't getting any worse, though. Try harder!" she urges.
"Hmmmm," Jim says, rubbing his chin. "You're poor at swimming? It's hard to insult someone I hardly even know."
"Just call him short! Quickly!" Sha'aasta says worriedly. "I can feel the brains squeezing against his skull already!"
Jim cringes. "That's the opposite end of the spectrum... Calling a gnome short? So obvious and uninspired..." Jim shrugs. "But if it's to save the life of a team-mate, I guess I can put aside style... You are short, it is true."
Sha'aasta gasps, releasing Johann's head quickly. "Now that's just mean!" she accuses.
Johann just shakes his head, chuckling.
Jim shrugs. "But was it meaner than you?"
Sha'aasta looks horrified. "Me?" she blurts out. "Mean? Who could even imagine such a... Johann. Quick. He knows. Erase his mind, or whatever it is you do."
"Ah, but can you erase my mind before I can compliment you to the point of brain burst?" Jim asks with a smile.
A sudden grey bolt flashes over the table before anyone can react, snapping its paws out towards the potato... but missing the pototo and the table entirely as Holzgeist sails into one of the rangers on the far side of the table.
Jim nonchalantly takes another bite of the potato. "Some people never learn."
"Sorry, buddy." Johann shouts across towards the retreating form of the wolf. "We tried to distract him for you." Then he repeats himself in a language of yips and barks.
Jim arches an eyebrow at Johann as he barks. "I've heard some people could get a bit wolfish, but this is ridiculous."
Johann just chuckles and bows. "Guess we'd better get some of that food before it's all gone. Nice to meet you, Jim. Take care!"
"Nice to meet you too," Jim says with a nod. "Farewell."
"Bye!" Sha'aasta adds brightly, turning to follow Johann to the food.

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Thu Oct 04, 2007 6:34 am
Hal sits on his sleeping bag, feeling as if he should go back to the feast and help clean up the mess. He decides that he is too tired to be of much use to anyone at the moment, and settles down into an untroubled slumber. --- Still fuming, Telanna stalks off into the forest, towards the grove. When she arrives she kneels down, takes a handful of dirt from the base of the tree, and whispers a prayer. She drops the dirt and climbs up into the tree, nestling in its branches. She glares at the canopy for nearly an hour before she finally drifts off to sleep.
---
Zook scribbles down a few notes by the shaky light of his lamp. He goes out to take one final look at the Assault Hardsuit. He runs his hands along its chassis, and sighs. Then he turns around, enters his tent, turns off the light, and slumps down onto his bedroll.
---
Sorel slowly moves towards the tables, beckoning Graigus.
"Come, we will talk."

Posted by: Kaihaku Thu Oct 04, 2007 9:43 am
Sophie watches the congregation slowly disperse after the instigators left. Letting out a tired sigh, the weary priestess looks at the ongoing festivities for a long moment, then she pauses as something catches her eye. Stepping over to the table, she picks up Gail's half-filled glass and looks at the liquid remaining within for a long moment…then downs it in a swig. She stands there for a moment, thoughtfully, then picks up the near full bottle and starts back towards the barracks.

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Thu Oct 04, 2007 12:24 pm

QUOTE (Kaihaku @ Thu Oct 04, 2007 4:43 am)
Sophie watches the congregation slowly disperse after the instigators left. Letting out a tired sigh, the weary priestess looks at the ongoing festivities for a long moment, then she pauses as something catches her eye. Stepping over to the table, she picks up Gail's half-filled glass and looks at the liquid remaining within for a long moment…then downs it in a swig. She stands there for a moment, thoughtfully, then picks up the near full bottle and starts back towards the barracks.

"Lush," Hal says the next morning, when Sophie asks him what her name means. "Sophie means 'Lush'."

Posted by: Arcdragnbreth Fri Oct 05, 2007 12:29 am
"Someone's quite the big spender lately," Ashathel said, slipping an arm around Faralon's shoulder during a lull in the night's events. "Still have time for your older brother?" : "Heh, who told you I spent money? Anyway, what's on your mind? Looking for some advice?"
*Faralon says with a smirk.*
"From you? Please... the only reason your voice is half as nice is because you haven't hit puberty yet," the elf said, grinning. "But no... I just wanted to ask what you thought of all our new... allies, I guess you'd call them. Although they're not so ally...y, i guess."
*Faralon seems to ignore the playful insult.*
: "To be honest, I haven't had a chance to speak with most of them. Hal seems nice, so hopefully the others are like him. As long as they're fighting alongside us, I don't really see any problems. Unless, of course, they're tactically inept. But given they got this far on their own, I doubt that's the case."
"Yeah, well... I think the fact that Amelios managed to escape for as long as he did is proof that sheer luck is enough to outdo tactics. And all that arguing isn't a sign of a happy camp, if you ask me. But... the leader of one of the groups, Sorel, is a good guy from what I see. And the dwarven monk... man, he's a real jackrabbit. Hopping all over the place."
: "I have to admit, Sorel's group has a number of very impressive characters. That magic creature actually took down one of the large robots singlehandedly. Apparently they have a golem in their ranks, as well, not to mention Gilliam. I hope we'll fight alongside some of them again in the near future."
"Mmm... and then there's that showoff in the group with all the weird guys... the big cat with the armor. No offense to Gabe, but we don't need another one of him floating around, and this guy's gunning for that position," Ashathel said.
*Faralon grins.*
: "I think the competition will be good for him. I should probably try and talk to some more of them. It's just I've been a little busy with the feast, as you can see, and I thought this was more for morale than for getting acquainted...But I suppose it wouldn't hurt. Heh, I saw a pretty funny drinking contest. Not surprisingly, the dwarf won."
"The little guy from Sorel's group?" Ashathel asked, in mild disbelief.
: "Yeah. The smaller one. I wonder how the other one would've done...Ah well. Y'know, that Sheila is a firecracker. She definitely has enthusiasm...which seems so foreign these days."
"Mmm... not bad looking, but not my type if she's crazy enough to go toe-to-toe with a dwarf in a drinking contest," the bladesinger mused, before shaking his head and looking back to his brother.
"Did the little guy really win that? He looks like he's five, for Mitula's sake... I didn't even know they let children into bars."
: "She was actually the one that suggested it...Heh, he's a dwarf. Aren't they born in ale?"
*Faralon says in jest.*
"That's how the story goes," Ashathel said, nodding with a smile. "Seems like all the monks have just lost their minds lately... a baby's drinking like a fish, and another one's hunting my brother. Madness, I say! Madness!"
: "Hunting? That's a strange word to use there."
"How so?"
: "It doesn't really make sense. How is she hunting me?"
"Well, she's actively pursuing a relationship with you, not hunting you in the same sense as Merkass chasing down a rabbit," the swashbuckler noted.
: "Still, I was the one that initiated...Nevermind. I hope you're enjoying the feast, but I can't imagine how you wouldn't be enjoying it."
"Good food, good company, good women and no reanimated corpses... what's not to enjoy?"
*Faralon nods, a bit of a chuckle escaping him as he responds.*
: "Exactly."
"Speaking of," Ashathel said, noting a trio of women, "it it'd be rude not to entertain our guests, no? I should go over there and keep them company."
*Faralon laughs before responding.*
: "Let's see if your charm's up to par with your sword skills. Let me know how it goes, brother."
"Perhaps in the morning!" he said, laughing, as he slinked away. "Hello, ladies..."

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Fri Oct 05, 2007 6:16 am
A confused frown tugged at Van's face as he slowly made his way through the groups of people towards a person he had spotted earlier that was sitting at a table with some of Zook's followers and someone else he didn't know. He needed to know how she was here; he had saw her die during a battle with Shailtor and then more recently saw her again during the battle with Xadoss. At the time he thougt it had been a trick of the mind caused by something in the battle, but now he saw her here again, apparently alive. When he finally came up behind the guardswoman, the words he had wanted to say vanished, leaving him rather frustrated. Finally the guisarme using warror managed to get out a single word loud enough for her to hear. "How?"
"Huh?" Rachel asks, blinking. "How what?"
A mixture of emotions play over Van's face, relief, confusion, and disbelief. "H-how are you here? I saw you die and we had no way of reviving you!"
"Huh? Oh... Oh that..." Rachel says with a wince. "Cedric managed to find some sort of magic staff and dug me up a long time after the battle... Anyway, whatever he did seems to have worked, cuz I'm alive now!"
The village warrior is silent for a long time as he thinks about this. He was surprised that it had been possible for Rachel to be revived after so long, but that wasn't the source of the frown growning on Van's face. Why didn't Cedric say anything? He went through all that trouble and said not a word to anyone as far as I know.... why? While he was overjoyed to know that the woman he loved was alive, he was also furious at his leader. Cursing softly to himself, Van stormed off to find the Paladin.

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Sat Oct 06, 2007 1:51 am
Nodding, the monk walked over and took a seat next to the druid. : "Sorel... what's going on?" Sorel looks down at the table for a moment, not wishing to answer the question. "What do you mean?" : "You know what I mean, Sorel... all this yelling, at a feast?" Graigus said, his eyes focused on the older man. "Something happened."
Sorel looks past Graigus, into the forest. "Some tempers ran high. Some things that ought not to have been said were said. Eventually, despite the best intentions of all involved, it came to blows."
: "Did she hit you?" Graigus asked, horrified.
"No, no one hit me," Sorel says with a frown. "One of the visitors hit my--hit a member of Cedric's force."
Arcdragnbreth: ((does everyone know that telanna's sorel's daughter?))
VoxPVoxD: ((I don't know what everyone knows))
VoxPVoxD: ((I just kind of assume everyone thinks their character knows everything that's been posted))
: "I see..." Graigus said, his head lowering for a minute before he looked back to Sorel. "And how are things with Telanna? I don't know... I got the feeling she doesn't like you all that much."
Sorel doesn't meet Gragius's eyes. "I think that would be fair to say."
: "But why? What does she have against you?"
"I abandoned her the day she was born," Sorel says, closing his eyes.
: "But... but how?" Graigus said. "You'd never do something like that, Sorel... I know you."
Sorel opens his eyes, and they are fixed on his hands, spread out and trembling against the linen tablecloth. "I did not know."
: "So you didn't know about her when you left," Graigus said. "Else you would never have left her, correct?"
"Never," Sorel says, still staring at his hands.
: "Then why don't you tell her that!" Graigus said, balling his hand into a shaking fist. "Why should she hate you for something you didn't do on purpose?"
"If you had believed something your entire life, if you had believed that a person had wronged you, what could that person say or do to change that?" Sorel asks. "It is no use."
: "The same way it was no use for me to make you and Dam Dicem talk?" Graigus asked. "Or the same way it was no use for you to try and save me? And the way it was no use for Dicem to break that Fizzle ball at the fortress? I'm sorry, Sorel, but I can't accept that. Not after all we've been through."
"It is not the same as that," Sorel says.
: "Is it not the same, or not as easy?" Graigus said. "This is more important than all of those, Sorel... this is your daughter! No one should spend their life angry at their father... and no one should spend their life being hurt by their daughter."
"She will not listen," Sorel replies.
: "But we can try."
Sorel shakes his head. "She has been through too much in the past few days and weeks for me to push this now. Please respect that."
The monk looked deep into Sorel's eyes, making his intent apparent. Then, slowly, he nodded in consent.
: "I will... but respect me enough to try, Sorel. You've always tried to help me... no, all of us. And you deserve help and happiness just as much as any of us. Don't forget that."
Sorel bows his head. "Very well." He looks up. "You should enjoy the feast."
: "You should too, as well as you can," Sorel said. "Well, the food isn't really for you, I guess, but maybe you can do something else?"
Sorel smiles a bit. "I have already eaten. Go, eat and mingle with the others. Be merry."
: "I see," Graigus said, with a nod. "But... I have one more favor to ask."
Sorel nods. "If it is within my power to give, it is yours."
: "You're not the only one who needs a second chance," the monk said. "Dam Dicem needs one too."
An odd expression crosses Sorel's face. "I know."
: "I... we... left him," Graigus. "When I was in the cell, before the Shadow Demon came, he was trying to get out. And I think he was trying to get me out too. I can't leave him to rot in an unmarked grave, Sorel."
: "He deserves more, even if he doesn't want it."
"We cannot," Sorel says, "And we will not. But the passage of time has...complicated matters. We will be able to bring him back. But it will not be as simple as it would be if I had not been so careless."
: "Not every wrong is your mistake, Sorel," Graigus said. "I hope that you can see that someday."
"This one was," Sorel whispers, "And I hope he can forgive me for that someday."
: "Are you sure that Dicem isn't one of your children as well? Because you're both pretty unwilling to take anything but the worst for yourselves," Graigus said, standing.
Sorel is silent at this.
: "Master Quialis would probably laugh very, very hard at the irony of this all; maybe you'll be able to do that too, soon," the dwarf said, walking away.
Sorel watches Graigus depart, and then rises himself. He goes into the forest, wandering among the trees for a while, taking care not to approach the grove. He arrives at a small rock outcropping near a brook. He sits down, intending to meditate until dawn. Instead, his mind begins to wander through the events of the day, from seeing Telanna knocked unconscious by Xadoss to seeing her battered and burned in Megiddo to seeing her struck by Sheila.
The image of his daughter's face is fixed in his mind. For the first time in decades, Sorel's head fills with a seductive heaviness, and he inclines it forward. His breathing slows, and the images of Telanna become dreams as Sorel falls asleep.

Posted by: Kaihaku Sat Oct 06, 2007 2:29 am
"Yo Maria!" Sheila says, running up and jumping into a seat next to the psion. "Howya doing?" "I'm still in shock..." Maria mummers dully, staring at a nearby table. Sheila frowns. "Still?" "Yeah..." Maria admits quietly, turning to look at the agent, "I just can't get over that Jim just used a flash grenade against that guy's wolf..." She sighs heavily, "Oh man, I hope that Adam didn't see that, he'll never let another lecture on appropriate use of equipment slip again..." She rolls her eyes, "Oh yeah! What about the time you just had to one up that wolf for stealing a potato?" The psion shakes her head.
"That... Ooooooh!" Sheila smiles, relieved. "I just can't believe I didn't manage to tackle that thing! I was sure I was locked on, an' then foosh! Off he went!"
"Well, drinking to excess can do that..." Maria chuckles, leaning back in her chair, arching an eyebrow, "So, how about you? I think you've gotten wasted more times tonight than I have in my entire life." She grins, "That GICS body comes in handy at times."
Sheila laughs. "Doesn't it, though?" Sheila stretches her arms out and grins. "I was really, really apprehensive at first, but this thing is awesome! I don't know how I'll ever handle going back to my real body!" Sheila grins. "Oh that reminds me... Guess what I managed to do?"
"Eh... What?" Maria replies, curious.
Sheila giggles a little. "I managed to get Mellissa drunk! Then I got her to show emotion! The impossible... acheived!"
Maria chuckles, shaking her head, "That's funny... I'll have to ask her about it." She tilts her head, "Is Varro next on your list then?"
Sheila shakes her head. "Naw... That's more Adam's territory." Sheila frowns. "Though I don't think Mel liked it very much. She pulled a gun on me at one point in the throes of drunkeness."
"...really?" Maria replies quietly, frowning, "That's...not cool." She
sighs, "This is supposed to be downtime, the last thing we need is someone to start a fight." She shakes her head, "You managed to talk her down then?"
Sheila winces and squirms in her seat. "Eheh... Yeah... Start a fight... Yeah, I managed to grab the gun, and Pantherath detox'd her after that. She seemed allright once she got her head together again. Last I saw her, she was playing a game of chess with Jim."
"Nicely done..." Maria nods with an approving smile, "I saw you darting around a good bit, seem to be meeting a lot of people, anyone interesting?" She frowns, "I haven't seen that Viki person, I wonder what happened to her..."
Sheila shrugs. "A few. A dwarf drank me under the table, sad to say, but he seemed nice. Talked with the old man, an' a bunch of the paladins. Had a quick talk with Coventry's sis too."
"Well, that's what dwarves are known for..." Maria chuckles, "No shame there." She yawns, "Cool... Man, I'm going to need to turn in soon if I'm going to be of any use tomorrow..." She tilts her head, "You killing types have it so easy..."
"I don't think..." Sheila starts to say, then she winces. "Ah right. You'll be teleporting people around, probably. Man..." Sheila says, shaking her head. "Why's everyone turning in so early?"
"Well, it has been a long day..." Maria replies with a smile, "They might need the rest, esspecially casters."
"Rest is what early afternoon is for..." Sheila says with a frown. "At this rate, I'll be forced to turn in 'cause everyone else has turned in."
"Ah, Sheila... You just need to make some more spunky friends..." She arches an eyebrow, "Why don't you try dancing with that elf over there? He's been making rounds with all the local girls, seems the life of the party....and more importantly he isn't showing any signs of stopping. Just your type."
Sheila nods. "I guess... The catgirl I was talking to is still up too..." Sheila grins. "But don't sleep yet, Mar. I hear that there's gonna be singin' and more dancin' in a bit!" Sheila grins wider. "An' if not? I'll MAKE 'em!"
"Yeah...and then tomorrow when I can't even teleport across the room, I'll let Jim know it was your idea." Maria chuckles.
Sheila winces, scratching the back of her head. "Eh... I'm prolly already gonna be in trouble anyway..."
"Meh." Maria shrugs, "It's been a long day, you deserve to have some fun."
"I guess," Sheila says with a frown. "But y'know, that goes double fer you! Have you met anyone? Talked to anyone yet?" Sheila asks.
"Who says I'm not having fun?" The psion questions with a smile, "Not everyone enjoys the same things as you, you know. Just because I'm not the life of the party doesn't mean I'm not enjoying it."
Sheila frowns. "I guess... Just sitting back and enjoying the music, eh?"
"Why not?" Maria smiles, raising her glass of wine, "I prefer things far more mellow than you."
Sheila reaches over and grabs a pitcher of ale, filling an empty glass with it. She raises the full glass and clinks it to Maria's. "To good times and mellow times, I guess."
Maria chuckles, slipping the wine lightly and looking out over the party.

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Sat Oct 06, 2007 3:51 am
Meanwhile, Ignatius sits at a table by himself, two dozen empty mugs surrounding him. He lifts one mug and looks at it with a sigh. "No matter how much I drink... I just can't get drunk..." Ignatius says with a sigh, putting the mug down and putting his head in his hands. "My life sucks..."
((Half Fiends are immune to poison, lol.))
---------
Shiela sits and drinks with Maria for a little while, then grins as the music starts to pick up from the slow, melodical song it was on to a faster paced, energetic tune. She dashes out onto the dance area and starts dancing an odd, frenetic, high motion dance that suits the frequent speed and motion of the agent rather well.
----------

Posted by: Knight_019 Sat Oct 06, 2007 5:50 am
*Long after the festivities of the feast have ended, Aurik once again took up study in one of the Elven libraries. He had long spent time in this room before, books from his previous stay still left out, though more neatly organized than when he had last left. Deep into thought over the nature of the Strife Lords and how they could ever be truly defeated, Aurik receives an unexpected, though welcome interruption.*
"Aurik," the half-giant said, his voice low and solemn, "I want to talk to you."
*Aurik raises his head from his position of prayer and study. Seated at a wooden bench, books strewn about, both sacred and secular tomes of knowledge, he turns to the familiar sight of Gabriel. He stands, quickly unseating himself and straightening his robes.*
: As have I. I have been waiting.
"I saw him," the barbarian said bluntly.
*Aurik tilts his head inquisitively.*
: Who did you see?
"Volcanon," Gabriel said, his teeth clenched. "It was... more than I expected to see."
*If one's eyes could catch every ray of light, Aurik's eyes had widened enough to do so.*
: You saw Volcanon? What did he say?
*Aurik speaks feverishly, curious and excited for his Half-Giant friend.*
"He scolded me," the barbarian said. "For blaming him, even after he helped me."
*Aurik nods.*
: Volcanon is a stern Lord, and he is not one to appreciate those who scorn His aid. Or those who scorn Him, for that matter. Did he say more?
"He said that I should speak with his servants," Gabriel said, before looking into the cleric's eyes. "I don't know what I'm doing, Aurik. I don't have a clue."
*Aurik scratches his chin.*
: If you do not know what you are doing now, then what do you want to do?
"Cedric and I, we are much the same," the half-giant said. "Our only purpose for living now is to crush Shailtor, and the rest of the Strife Lords."
*Aurik continues stroking his chin, noting the increasing coarseness of the stubble gracing his chin.*
: Is revenge all you seek?
"I have nothing else to return to," the half-giant said. "That is the difference between Cedric and I... he at least has a history, familiar places and people to help him decide what to do after the Strife Lords are crushed. I have no such thing."
*The hand drops from Aurik's chin, and he shakes his head.*
: Indeed, those monsters created you, but that does not make you a monster. You have the power to shape your destiny without regards to what has happened in the past. Use what you know as your guide, but be your own person. There is great passion and desire within you to be something more. You will return to a world you can say that you helped shape. As a result, you may make your own life. You can set out on your own, or you may stay with us. Volcanon has welcomed you with open arms, and it is your choice to take or leave. However, you should know that in speaking with you, he sees something special in you.
"I have no skills, save those used to hunt and kill," the barbarian said. "Even Castor is a painter."
: No. To "hunt and kill" are skills in and of themselves. While neither I nor Volcanon would not condone unchecked killing like murder, they serve their purpose when necessary. Battles such as Megiddo show us this, though often as grim lessons. For example, Merkass lives to hunt and knows of little else, yet he feels no pain or anguish for it, save that which drives him. *Aurik glanes behind him for a moment.* We all have niches where we excel. To call this weakness is to forgo that which we are.
"But I want to do more... to be more than that," the large warrior said.
: And what is stopping you?
Gabriel pauses for a moment, then sighs. "I do not know," he says, finally. "I suppose there is no barrier."
: What do you want to be?
"Again, I don't know," Gabriel said. "Whatever would be best for everyone else, I guess."
*Aurik lowers his head, shaking it bleakly. He sighs, thinking of a way to overcome his friend's discouraging remarks.*
: Gabriel, you have always been of strong will. While you wish to dedicate some portion of your deeds and life to following Volcanon, this does not mean you give up a sense of autonomy. Know that while you may begin to feel more selflessness, this does not necessarily mean you are slave to others. Instead, Gabriel, you stand to become a leader to others. An open flame standing in the darkness against the breaking wind of evil. For this, do not choose 'what would be best for everyone else' unless you have determined a best course of action.
"I see," the half-giant said, nodding in thought. "I have some thinking to do, then."
*Aurik looks up from the fervor incited within him. He often became feverishly excited when proselytizing, and this was no exception. One thing bothered him, however.*
: Tell me... are you still bothered by being used as a tool of the Strife Lords?
"Is there any way not to be?" Gabriel asked, his voice hard. "They used me, like so much meat."
*Aurik nods, beginning to get worked up again. A small smile starts across his lips.*
: Of course, you are well within your rights to be upset. However, when you think about the choices that will take you further down your path, know that you are making your own choice. The conscious effort to not only make your own decisions, but know that you are indeed making them, will be your first step toward releasing yourself from your guilt.
The barbarian nods at this, though he remains silent.
: Are you ready?
"Yes," he said, after some hesitation. "Nothing will change by me doing what I have been doing this whole time."
: Then go in peace.
Nodding, the half-giant rose to his feet. "Thank you," he said, nodding. "We will speak again later, after I've taken some time to think about where I need to go from here."
: *Aurik nods, a full smile on his face.* Any time, Gabriel. My door is always open... and not... really... existent.

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Sat Oct 06, 2007 6:31 am
“So here you are,” Max said, walking up behind Anri. The swordsman smiled. “Drawing? You used to do that a lot, as I recall...” “I haven't drawn for ages,” Anri said, her hand continuing to move across the paper. “Almost never since I ascended to the throne...”
“What are you drawing, then?” Max asked, sitting down next to the queen.
“Couldn't you tell? I'm insulted,” Anri said with a smile, turning he paper towards him. The page was covered with a recognizable sketch of the party, pencil drawings of the various people from the Forces milling around tables and trees. Some danced, while others sat and drank, and yet others stood and chatted away. Though still an amateur work, the sketch was more than a little accurate. Max smiled as he looked at the piece.
((Profession: Artist: 16+2(Dex)= 18.))
“Nice work... I'm impressed!” Max said, turning back to look at the crowd still up and partying. “I can tell who's who.”
“I know,” Anri said, still smiling. “I was really surprised... I thought that I'd have really worsened after all that time without practice. I guess I still have that... magic touch?”
“Nice sketch, but the jokes need work,” Max said with a grin. “That's just funny because it was so bad.”
“Well...” Anri, pretending to pout. “We can't all be like Jogurt, can we?”
Max laughed a little at the first Shining Force's unofficial mascot, the large furry rodent that had made the time after battle bearable with a stream of jokes and dumb acts.
"Remember when in the middle of one of his impressions of a goblin he ran right into Lowe? The stew he was carrying went flying..." Max started to say. Anri's eyes lit up.
"And it went straight onto Arthur's pile of clothes that he had finished cleaning and folding! He was so mad! He chased the poor little hamster around with his lance for a good hour!" Anri said, stifling a giggle. "Tao had to put him under a sleep spell in the end!"
"I remember that!" Max said, clapping his hands together with a laugh. "They had quite the time hauling him back into his tent! They needed Mae, Gort, Luke, AND Ken to do it!"
"Remember when Tao accidently set Zylo's fur on fire when she was trying to master the Ultimate Blaze spell?" Anri asked eagerly.
"Yeah! You had to use Lesser Freeze on him to douse the flames, the water wasn't doing it quick enough!" Max said, laughing hard enough to shake. "Light! Ah.... Ah, we had some good times, didn't we?"
"Yeah..." Anri said, a wistful look in her eye. "We did."
The two were silent for a long time as they just gazed on the party and its festivities.
“Max... I... I wish it could be like this forever...” Anri said suddenly. Max's eyebrow shot up.
“What do you mean?” he asked.
“Talking like this... In this place...” Anri quietly said, her face downcast. “It's... It's like we have no troubles at all. No duties or past crimes to atone for... No pressing matters of war or state... No world to save... It's like we can just... just live.”
“Anri...” Max began, but stopped unsure of what to say.
Anri closed her eyes and closed the sketchbook, hugging it tightly to her.

Posted by: Rusty Sat Oct 06, 2007 8:17 am
"Good food, eh?" Jim asks, walking over to Alex's table. *Alex nods, smiling as he looks at Jim.* "Yeah, my brother's really outdone himself this time. I was worried about the quality since there would be so much food to worry about, but this is one of the best meals I've ever had!"
"It was quite delicious," Jim says, taking a sip of wine from a glass in his hand. "I especially like the meat pie. I hardly expected a feast within the first day of warfare, but I suppose we shouldn't cough at our luck, eh?"
Alexander: "Indeed. Most everyone else seems to be enjoying it, which is good. Hal's generally really happy, but I don't think I've seen him this happy in years. He loves cooking, and this was a huge opportunity that he obviously couldn't miss. He was ready to sell some of his possessions to pay for it, even, before that elf stepped in."
"You mean the bard? Wasn't his name Faralon?" Jim asks, turning to look at the 'band'. "I'll have to thank him at some point."
*Alexander nods.* "Yeah. I'm not that great with names, but I can't forget faces. Already I forgot Sophie's brothers name, regretfully. I believe he's traveling with you? He apparently mixed up some trouble outside between some people before disappearing. Sorel's...daughter and that girl on your force...She had long hair and a fiery personality, if that helps. Well, I don't know if you heard, but those two got into a large argument. Hopefully we can keep things under control, because I want things to stay civil between the groups. The less problems, the better."
Jim sighs. "That'd be Sheila... Yeah, I heard something about a fight. She's generally civil, but there's a few ways to set her off. I'll have a talk with her later. Sophie's brother... That must be Doctor Coventry."
Alexander: "Yes, that was it! Coventry. Well, Sheila did have a number of drinks beforehand, so that probably didn't help. She played a drinking game with some of the others. I'm not usually the quiet observant one, but given the sheer number of new allies, I thought it wouldn't hurt to watch how they are first. I have to admit, I didn't expect some of them to be so...rowdy."
"Really?" Jim says with a frown. "I expected there to be far, far more rowdiness given the number of soldiers and amount of booze flowing here. Frankly I'm surprised things have been as calm as they have been."
*Alexander's eyebrows raise for a second.* "Well, I guess I need to attend feasts more often. I prefer the quieter life. Simple, calm and peaceful, and everything nice and orderly. None of this chaos; none of these devils." *Alexander breathes in slowly and then exhales heavily as he looks at his own wine glass.* "I'm not really sure what I'm going to do when it all ends."
"Not a soldier by trade, then?" Jim asks, sitting down.
Alexander: "No...I didn't really intend to get into all of this mess; not until they brought the fight to my doorstep."
"Ah... I see," Jim says. "What did you do before the war broke out?"
Alexander: "Well, I did a number of things - mostly farming. My town was a fairly small town, and it's not unusual for most people in small towns to do SOME kind of farming. My family mainly dealt with wheat. When Hal moved out, it was pretty clear that I'd be taking over that business. When I wasn't taking care of the farm, I'd be out helping the local church with various things, since that's what Hal used to do."
"You don't want to go back to that?" Jim asks.
Alexander: "It'd feel lonely now. Empty. I don't know if I want that."
"So... that's how you were dragged into the war then," Jim says quietly. "How long ago was it?"
*Alexander takes a sip from his wine, setting it back down on the table softly.* "Shortly after the whole war started, apparently. This was about the same time where Destonia began to attack and gain more land. The enemies in war were blurred between devil and men. Soon, we didn't really know who to trust. We didn't know what was going on. We were just a small farming town, and we didn't get word of things very often." *He pauses for a moment.* "The Destonia empire is not much greater than the devils. They have the same ambitions. They just have different methods of attempting to achieve those ambitions. At least, the King is that way. His soldiers are only following orders, but the fact that they can listen to absurd things like that and still fight for him...that doesn't really make them any better."
Jim nods. "Well... It's still too early to tell then. Perhaps with time, you'll find some of the peace you like," Jim looks at the wine in his glass. "War creates many wounds, but you seem a strong sort. I don't know you that well, but my initial impression is that you'll be able to live again."
Alexander: "I don't think I'll know that until I purge these lands of devils. Nothing would make me happier than for them to be out of my life forever."
Jim smiles a little. "I hear that. Until then, I suppose," Jim lifts his glass. "To victory."
*Alexander raises his glass in turn as he responds.* "To victory."
Jim clinks his glass against Alexander's and drinks. He sighs with satisfaction as he sets the glass down. "It's been a very long time since I've sampled an elven vintage like this. Almost makes the battle worth it."
*Alexander laughs.* "It's something to look forward to when we defeat the devils and restore peace. We might not have another feast until then, so we better make the most of it."
"Indeed..." Jim says with a wry smile. "A pity my belly is already full. Hopefully there will be leftovers for tommorrow."
*Alexander grins.* "We'll see." *He sighs, sipping more wine.* "We're likely to part ways after this feast, unless you happen to have the same destination - wherever that is. Hopefully we'll be able to sort all that at the meeting, or at least get a general idea. I hope we'll be able to stay in contact. It's not everyday I see allies like you and your force."
"I'd definitely agree on staying in contact, but that's a matter for the meeting," Jim says with a grin. "Being a feast, this is the time to talk about anything but planning battle. I was hoping to catch the druid or the other paladin too, but it looks like they already went to bed," Jim comments, taking another sip of wine. "I thought it might be a good idea to get to know the other leaders a bit better. "After all," Jim says, surveying the village. "The way things have been going, we're probably going to be fighting together for a while."
*Alex nods.* "I agree completely. Sorry...it's just...my entire mindset has been on this war all this time. I suppose I should try and get my mind off things if just for this one night."
"That's all right," Jim says, taking another drink. "If you can, though, I really would stop and enjoy the feast. I've travelled across many, many lands, and banquets like these are hard to come by. Jim grins. "For a wanderer, anyway."
*Alexander nods again.* "Yeah....Yeah, I'll try."
"Good," Jim says as he sits back in his chair and watches the festivities.
((This thread's open until the feast ends, so sayeth Marine.))

Posted by: Aldur Sat Oct 06, 2007 9:59 pm
Meanwhile, from above the tree the Queen was eagerly drawing under, the Guardianian Queen could hear a pleasant melody coming from the tree. Anri opens her eyes and looks around. "Hello Queeny! Look up." Kria giggled, lazing in a tree, draped over it, staring down at the royal personage.
Anri looks up, seeing the cat up a tree. "Ah... Hello."
"Whatcha drawing?" Asked the curious catfolk as she descended with the aid of her fell wings, landing lightly in front of Anri.
Anri reopens her sketchbook and shows the picture to Kria.
Kria blinked. "Oh! Peoples! They're pretty good as well." She smirked. "I never thought a Queen would like drawing..."
Anri smiles a little. "Everyone has a hobby..."
"Yeah, I guess so. Mine is singing." She smiles. "So! To business! I'm Kria. Handmaiden of the Dark Dragon Tribe. I was there when we rescued you. Heehee, that was certainly interesting!"
Anri frowns. "Dark Dragon Tribe?"
"Yeah. Little tribe in the forests north of Galam." Kria smiled at the Queen.
"Why the name?" Anri asks.
"Because that's who the tribe worship. Except little old me really, Go go rebels!" Kria giggled.
"Ah, I see," Anri says with a nod. "You must be very brave to be able to trod your own path like that."
"Or very stupid!" Kria smirks. "But yeah, I'm stubborn. Technically I lead the tribe now. So, You...and Maxie. What's the story?" Kria giggled, winking.
Anri blushes and swiftly brings her sketchbook up while Max arches an eyebrow.
"Story?" he asks.
Oh COME ON! It's like...textbook!" Kria sighs, shaking her head. "The Princess and the Hero!"
Max frowns. "What?"
((Sing check: 23.))
Kria grinned, and hummed, starting to sing a little song to attempt to get her point across, the Catfolk being elaborate as usual. "
My oh my, do you wanna say goodbye?
To have the Kingdom, baby, tell me why?
My oh my, do you wanna say goodbye?
To rule the Country, baby, you and I?
If you were my King...
My oh my, do you wanna say goodbye?
To have the Kingdom, baby, tell me why?
My oh my,do you wanna say goodbye?
To rule the Country, baby, you and I?
Little princess in a terrible mess
A kingdom alone, but no love to confess
Dreams of a prince on a tall white horse
Runs like a spirit by the castle walls
My oh my, do you wanna say goodbye?
To have the Kingdom, baby, tell me why?
My oh my, do you wanna say goodbye?
To rule the Country, baby, you and I?
If you were my King, I would be your queen...
If you were my King, I would be your queen...
Mystery deep in the royal heart
Crying at night, I wanna be apart
Prince, oh prince, are you really sincere?
Bet you one day you're gonna disappear...
If you were my King, I would be your queen...
If you were my King, I would be your queen... " Kria took a deep breath and then winked. "See? Star crossed lovers and all that jazz!"
"Uh..." Max says at a loss. "Isn't... Isn't that a little personal of a question to ask?"
"Probably! But if you asked me, I'd happy tell you." Kria grinned.
Max arches an eyebrow. "Do we look like you?" Then he smiles a little. "How about we ask you then?"
"Well, no, but you know what I mean Mr! And hmm...no one in the picture at present." Kria frowned. "Nice try by the way! So! What's the deal?"
"It's quite a deal, they're giving away food for free I hear," Max says with a smile.
"Can't beat those prices!" Anri says from behind her book.
"Aw, cute a tag team already." Kria smiles, leaping up slightly, hovering in mid air, daintily crossing one leg over the other. "Maximillian. Do you have romantic feelings for Queen Anri? Queen Anri, would you swoon if Max took you in his manly arms and said "I love you..."?"
Max's cheeks tinge a little red. "I really don't think that..."
Kria suddenly feels very sleepy. Kria frowned, yawning. "So...Anny, whatcha say? That a...good idea?"
"Well... I..." Anri says, looking over the top of her book. "I wouldn't know until it happened."
Kria smiles. "Well then...Step up to the bat Maxie!"
"What?" Max says with a frown. "You... I can't just do it right now... The timing is all wrong. It wouldn't be right to just do it on command."
"He's right," Anri says, flipping a page and moving her pencil across it. "You need the right atmosphere for that sort of thing. And the right timing... and the right place..." Anri says, drawing again.
Kria grinned. "Good, I'll set something up and you both can do the moonlight romance thing. No need...to...thank me. Matchmaking is what I do, and don't worry, I'll not be watching." Kria giggled, turning around to set things in motion.
Anri sighs. "I wish I'd memorized more defensive spells..."
Kria retreats, humming sleepily to herself.

Posted by: Lord Oddeye Sat Oct 06, 2007 11:59 pm
Needless to say that Enrick was not indifferent to the festivities offered within the relatively peaceful clearing of the elven village. All this time he could be seen moving around the food filled tables, grabbing some food along the way and rejoicing loudly.
: "Hahahaha! This sure is a nice change in-between two thrilling adventures! Hmm... Nice change indeed compared to the lack of variety of my own daily rations- Oooo! This looks tasty!" He excaimed, about to swallow a square shaped toast covered with a salty mixture. He drew the food to his mouth, his eyes widdened and his grin grew bigger the moment he gave it a bite, "...Outstanding!... Fabulous!" He exulted, taking two sips of the drink he had in the other hand, "Congratulations Hal! Oh his talents of cook greatly outdo all that my refined palate got to appreciate in weeks- well, months actually." He frowned a little, lowering his voice, speaking dreamingly, "Hmm... The mansion. It's been a while since I showed up there. I wonder how they're doing there. I miss the mansion's food..." His gaze landed upon a large plate of fried mushrooms filled with a creamy melange whose surface was sprinkled with herbs and other colored spices, "....But not so much at this time! Ready-Set-GO!"
And he sprinted over to his new target with the intent of emptying its content of one or two of those "wonder mushes"... maybe three... can't call four an excess... really!... five would be another story but -ah, need more drink- Ooo! A plate of shrimps right over there! Prepare yourselves shrimps for here I come! AHAHHHH!
...erm. Getting carried away there. *scratch noise*
He kept going on like this : going back and forth between each row of tables and enjoying the many wonders of the feast with his tired comrades for the remainder of the party. Oh and he hopped around gleefully too.

Posted by: Dark Maiden Sun Oct 07, 2007 5:54 am
*Sometime after performing for the forces, Faralon takes a break, stepping down from the stage. He smiles as he approaches Kethra, nodding to her.* "You're looking beautiful as ever. How are you enjoying yourself, Kethra?" Kethra puts down her glass and turns to face Faralon. "Thank you," she says with a smile. "I am enjoying myself very much, actually. This is quite a feast that the priest put together."
*Faralon smiles.* "Yes. I made sure he didn't forget the elven delicacies." *Faralon says with a wink before sitting next to the monk.* "It's nice to sit back and relax." *He wraps his arm around Kethra, smiling wide.* “What's been on your mind? I'm regretting that we haven't had more opportunities to sit down and talk, myself."
"After everything that has happened recently, it is nice to have a break." Kethra drapes her arm over Faralon's shoulders. "We will probably be staying here for a few days, so we have some time."
*Faralon smiles, gazing into Kethra's eyes.* "Indeed we do. Let's not waste it." *Holding her closer, Faralon continues, winking.* "So when are you going to dance?"
"I was waiting for you," Kethra says, with a sweet smile on her face.
*Faralon smiles brightly, taking Kethra's hand in his own.* "Let's go."
*Taking Kethra by the hand, Faralon walks her up towards the stage, resting his left hand on her hip as his right hand holds hers. Swaying with perfect rhythm, Faralon gazes into Kethra's eyes as he speaks softly.* "Kethra...despite all these hardships, these battles, this war...Despite every tragedy I've witnessed and endured, I love this. All of this. I'm happy I joined the quest, because it's brought me so much joy, I can't possibly fit it all into words. But most of all, it's brought me to you, and you to me. That makes everything worth it."
Kethra puts her right arm around his neck, and begins to dance. The monk misses more than her share of steps, but she does not seem to mind. She looks into Faralon's eyes as he speaks to her, listening intently to every word he has to say. Once he is finished, Kethra speaks in a soft tone. "Faralon... I, too, am glad that I joined the expedition. Meeting you is the best thing that ever happened to me. I love you, more than anything, even my own life, and as long as you are with me, I can, and will endure through the hardships."
"Kethra...I saw you fall yesterday in combat. I thought I'd lost you until that panther man healed you. Please...please, never die. Certainly not like that...I never want you to die." *Faralon holds Kethra closer to him, a slight frown on his face.*
Kethra sighs and rests her head on Faralon's shoulder and puts her arms around him, but she does not say anything. What can I say to him?
*Faralon wraps both arms firmly around Kethra, resting his head against hers, staying silent as he continues to dance with her.*
-----
*Nodding good bye to Jim, Alexander heads over to speak with Merla.* "Hello, Merla. Everything okay?"
Merla looks up to her leader. "Hello Alex. Everything is just fine." The mage is silent for a few moments before she continues. "So, how about you...are you enjoying yourself?"
*Alex nods.* "Indeed. The food's great, to say the least. Most of our allies seem to be pretty friendly, which is good. Have you spoken with any of them yet?"
"No, no yet. Well...there was the priest Aurik in the line..." Merla puts down her drink. "So, is there anything you need from me?"
*Alexander shakes his head.* "No, I was just seeing if you were enjoying the feast, is all. This may be the last time we do something like this for a while, so you should try and relax and take it easy for a while."
"Does my 'all work and no play' attitude surprise you?" Merla chuckles. "I plan to retire to my room soon, anyway. Tomorrow, I am going to find this village's library and do some research."
"No, not at all, especially considering I'm very much the same way. That sounds like a fine idea. I'll be meeting with the leaders of the other forces tomorrow, myself. But right now, just enjoy the food and maybe try talking to some of our allies. You know, get acquainted. Now's as good a time as any, right?"
"Perhaps I can find someone of like mind while I am at it," Merla says.
*Alexander nods, grinning.* "I'm sure you'll find someone here like that. There's plenty of people!"
I have not seen him this cheerful in the entire time I have been with this group... Merla nods and smiles ever so slightly. "Indeed there are."
*Alexander nods to Merla.* "I'll be on my way to talk to some of the others now. Take it easy, Merla."
"You too, Alex."

Posted by: Kaihaku Sun Oct 07, 2007 8:57 am
The Doctor stops a short distance away, looking at the figure beneath the tree, his voice low, "Are you awake?" Gail's form stirs, twisting to look towards the voice, then stopping, wide-eyed as she realizes who it is. After staring at the Doctor, her eyes fall away from him. "Yes," she whispers, hardly managing even that.
She steals another look at the doctor, a tired chuckle escaping her lips as they take on a small smile. "You...you're the last person I expected to see again. I..." She then falls silent again, unable to find anything to voice.
"…you left suddenly…" The Doctor states quietly as if in explanation, taking a step closer and sitting on the ground, "I…" He hesitates, then speaks swiftly, staring at the ground intensely, "Gail…after you left; I humiliated Sorel…and insulted his daughter… I…probably ruined…any chance they had of reconciling…" He voice breaks, "…even though I knew…I knew…that leaving me tormented him… I still…had to have that petty…vengeance… It exploded...into a huge argument...that disrupted the whole feast... All those people…just wanting to escape conflict…if even for an evening…" His face contours, "I'm…not an angel…I'm not a savior…" He looks at her bitterly, "I'm not even a nice person… Not really…" He swallows thickly, speaking in torment, "I…I can't change that… I tried…so many times… I always…always…fall back to…what I am…petty, cruel, egotistic…" His eyes look into those of the maiden before him desperately, "You see that, don't you?
Gail returns the Doctor's plea with a silent stare, blue eyes wavering at the sudden outpouring of strained emotion. Her eyes shut, turning away from the Doctor as she swallows a shaking breath, an urge to cry that was still fresh and sour. Here was
another good person in pain, another soul lost, a friend she abandoned that had come back to reach out to her...would she leave him again? Let him wallow in self-torment until he decides it is far too much to even try? Slowly, her eyes open, lifting back to Alastor's torn face. "No, Alastor...I can't."
"You say...that you can't change the person you've made yourself into? That you're simply a self-centered child who can't control himself?" She shakes her head, silver locks catching in the moonlight. "You mean to tell me that all those people you helped, you've done so simply for your own interests? That all those who owe you their lives, whom you pulled from death, you saved to give yourself the satisfaction of knowing they respect and honor someone like you? Curing the sick, healing the dying...You want me to believe it's all a ploy to make yourself feel superior? I can't believe that. I won't believe that."
"I remember...argument used to follow you, because you expected so much of others. You did do...stupid things...but there were times, many times, when you confronted those around you because they didn't live by their own standards." The maiden's strong face falls, tearing away from the Doctor's anguish. "I...recall a time when I was shown someone I left behind still waited for me." The furrow then returns, as quickly as it had disappeared, coming back to Coventry. "Whenever something needed to be spoken...whether others thought it was right or not to do so...you haven't been afraid to speak."
"You...might have done something horrible tonight," Gail continues, looking out into the town. She couldn't even see the clearing from where she was. "Something no one will soon forget you did, and may not even forgive you, no matter how long time passes...but does that make you a horrible person? Does a single mistake wash away all that you've done?" The angel-blooded falls silent, the sounds of the forest slowly surrounding them as time wears on. "You're a better person than you think you are. I...wish you could see that."
His eyes watched her as she spoke words of good hope and faith, locked on her as if they could not turn away. As she continues his face slowly grows pallid and his breath becomes low and ragged. When she finishes, he sits there in the silence of the wilderness, making no answer as his eyes drift to the ground.
"…then you don't see me." At last, Alastor replies in a worn voice laced with venom, his eyes staring at the ground as if his gaze were piercing into the depths of hell, "You see what you want to see…" His face contours in a twisted sneer of a smile, "What…I pretend…when I forget…" He shakes his head bitterly, his voice thick with loathing, "You see part of me… Yes…I do care." He twitches slightly, his haggard eyes looking up at her, "Not just you…the others too… They think that makes all the difference…that I care… That it somehow redeems me…" His face contours, twisted by emotion, "No… It damns me."
He lets out a scornful laugh nearly a torn sob, then trembling returns to glaring at the ground, "…that's…what makes me all the worse…" He bites his lip, drawing blood, "I care, I understand their pain…" He looks back to her, his eyes sardonic, "Mortals…those no longer mortal…even a god…all called me arrogant, because I asked…demanded…to be shown the way…rather than just being told the way… I asked for proof… I'm arrogant…because I believe what I see with my eyes…rather than what they tell me to believe…" His face twists with anger, …no…my…arrogance…isn’t asking to be shown the truth…it's believing that I had the right…the wisdom…to meddle recklessly with other people's lives…" His anger fades as he looks back to the ground, his voice quiet and weary, "…that…poisoned and flawed, I could mend others…"
"…no…" Alastor adds softly, "I do care… Gail." He pauses, looking up at the nearby maiden, his eyes empty, "That doesn't make me a better person… It makes me worse…" He attempts a smile weakly then lets it fade away looking at her plainly, "…I hate falsehood…because I'm false… I condemn hypocrites…because I am one…" He lets his gaze fall away, returning to the grass and dirt, "…perhaps…I am a self-centered child…but I'm more than that… I'm…" His voice trails away, a haunted look in his eyes.
Gail watches idly as Alastor tears himself apart, unable to turn away, but paralyzed. She knew she had to speak, to reach out to him, to stop his descent...but what would he hold to? What could she say that wouldn't be a pretty lie, an excuse for what he has, for what he's done? What could she say that wouldn't demean him, wouldn't shrink his pain by suffocating it with that of others? What could she say that he would listen to...that he would accept? Finding her answer, she lets her head bow, fighting back a grimace futilely as the deafening silence grows.
Alastor sits in the silence, his eyes flitting across the grass as if chasing the demons of his thoughts, before he finally looks up at the hushed paladin with a twisted smile forming on his lips.
"So…maybe you do see…" A perverse humor shines in his eyes, as if deep instead he were laughing at his own pain, sick vindication in his voice, "…there are no answers, Gail…" He laughs; a twisted sound of mirth and agony, "…I should have never been born…but I was…" Alastor continues quietly, his words growing more intense as his voice lowers, "…I love a life that I never had a right to...everything I love I have no right to…" His voice trails away for a moment as his eyes glare down spitefully at the ground, then his face contours into a sneer, "…but I lack even the decency to stay dead…" His voice thickens with loathing, "I…I hate that place…there's nothing there…no hope…"
"…perhaps…it's not so unlike this world…" Alastor mutters dismally as the silence grows to hang over them. After a long moment, his eyes shoot up to look at the angel-born feverishly, his words torn from him in a desperate plea, "Don't say I didn't try! I did! I did try!" He looks at her for a long moment, tears forming in his eyes as he mumbles weakly to himself, as if struggling to assure himself of the truth of his words, "…I did try…" He casts his gaze to the earth, lowly speaking words twisted with hate, "…but…I'm too weak…and this world…too fallen…"
He shakes his head slowly then stands to his feet fluidly, his hands trembling as he pulls his glasses from an inner pocket and slides them on. The Doctor glances at the maiden, swallowing weakly before speaking in a chipper voice, his torment all but vanishing beneath the well oiled facade, "Well… I don't know what came over me." He chuckles almost managing to repress the slight tremble in his voice, "Good night."
Gail looks after the Doctor, wanting to say so much, but simply watching, a hand hiding trembling lips. She waits until he disappears, a few small steps until the dark on the edge of her vision swallows him, shutting her eyes to watch his silhouette a little while longer. Suddenly, she sees his face again, desperate and wounded, and a shudder comes over her. No...Don't let him walk away. He needs someone...anyone...don't let this happen again. Lifting herself on shaking legs, she chases him, almost tripping in her urgency. She manages to catch Coventry, and for a few moments, wonders what she should say. Soon, however, she starts, her speech unsteady, uneasy.
The Doctor slows at the sounds of pursuit, glancing back at her quizzically; his eyes hidden behind the guard of his spectacles.
"You said you don't have a right...that your arrogance kept you from what others told you was the truth...that you don't even hold the right to your life...but no one has a right to anything. There is no scale in heaven that judges those who should live or die... Else, where would be the purpose of this?" She throws her arms wide open, to the field around them, before they slowly return, her hands stopping just short of each other. "But, there...there's time...and the privilege we have in the little life we're given to change something, to do even a small good. Some...never hear that...never realize...but I know you do." Her hands clasp, wringing slightly. "You told me you cared...you said that you tried...and I believe you. Does that mean you won't care tomorrow, that you'll stop trying because of what you hate in yourself? Do you truly believe that you don't deserve to help others...that they don't deserve your help...because you'll hurt them some day?"
She shakes her head, her eyes glistening with unshed tears. "Just because you hate a facet of yourself doesn't make you unworthy. Wanting to tear something from yourself, to rip it apart, to leave it...does not make you false," she says, her voice falling soft, almost as if hit with realization. The dumbstruck look fades, though, turning to the Doctor with apparent purpose. "If the world is fallen, help it stand. If there are weak and wretched, give them a better life, if only in a small way. You may not be able to change who you are...I know no one who can...but you can change what you do with what you have, work towards a better world. Why destroy yourself from the inside out...when you could use that precious time...to help?"
The Doctor looks at her, his calm composure dissolving at her words, his fists clenching and unclenching. He shakes his head at her sadly at certain points, almost interrupting but remains quiet until she finishes.
"Why? Why, Gail?" He chokes out feebly, looking into her eyes with evident anguish, "I thought…that if I could just…understand the world…relate to others…" He lets out a wretched chuckle, "Then I…would find my place…or at least…find the strength to stop myself." He hesitates, his eyes searching hers before he continues, "What I found…" He lets out a bitter sigh, looking to the ground, "…was that the more I looked, the more the world revealed itself to be what I hated most about myself." His eyes return to her, filled with a deep pain, "…conceited…self-righteous…reckless…" His voice lowers darkly, "Meddling just for the pleasure of meddling…without compassion…" He shakes his head softly, breathing, "No…no…that's not all I do…that's not all that drives me…but more and more it allures to me…and when I look at the world, more and more I see that the whole world has succumbed to it…" He looks at her sadly, "How…how can I help the world to stand…when I can't stand for the very same reasons?"
He lets his gaze rest there, for a moment, just looking at her, then he smiles weakly, "I'm… I'm not afraid to help others… I'm afraid to lose sight of them…" His eyes waver, "What does it mean to help someone…if you do it without compassion?" He hesitates before murmuring softly, "What if ideals really are more important than people? What if the gods really are just playing a game for their amusement? …or maneuvering us like chess pieces in a grand war for their principles. What if all this suffering is for nothing?" He adds something in a soft whisper, looking to the ground.
Gail's face twists into a grimace at Coventry's pained speech, her eyes welling up with tears as he slowly comes to his conclusion. His soft words, heavy with grief, prick her ears, and she has to stifle a sob at his whispered claim, struggling to
keep her composure against his crushing despair. She steps closer to him, beginning to reach for him, but thinks better of it, shrinking back to let her hands wring near her face. "Alastor," she says, her voice breaking softly, despite her efforts, "I... can't claim to know the nature of the world. It's too vast...there's too much to see, to know...but I...I do know that asking its nature...pondering what we'll never see...it can't help anyone. To think life a war, perpetual, undying..." She looks to the feast clearing, still unable to see it, save the lights it cast into the night air. "Who is it we're fighting, then? Do...do you believe the gods are silent by choice...that this...is not only amusement to them, but...manufactured?"
She stops herself, hesitating, looking into the Doctor's broken face. "Nothing can stand on degradation for long...no one can be truly isolated from those around him. As much as we wish the world didn't shape us, sometimes...it does. But the world can be changed, too...People can be shown a better way...and be shown that that way works. The world can...it doesn't...I..."
She realizes it was too much, far too much to answer, to give guidance to, to take in. She feels tears stream down her face; the more she wipes away, the more they come, and soon, she is sobbing, kneeling on the ground as she covers her face. It is along time before she can stop herself, before what she had suppressing so long finally manages to run dry long enough to speak. She looks up at him, eyes sparkling damply in the moonlight, her voice barely loudly than the breeze. "There has to be something you still have hope in. There has something you can cling to...something you believe in...something to live for. Please...Please..." Her breathing is ragged, and soon, she is sobbing again.
The Doctor kneels at the sobbing maiden's side, looking on her sadly as he places a hand reassuringly on her shoulder and takes one of her hands with the other, replying simply, "Ok." He looks into her eyes, tears forming in his as he answers her once more, his voice wavering with emotion, "Okay." He nods, gently squeezing her hand before releasing it and lifting his to brush away her tears.
He looks at her for a long moment, finally speaking in a quiet voice, "You know…that dress is only half the treatment I prescribed…" He smiles faintly, nodding back over his shoulder, speaking quietly, "Come on…" He slowly stands offering her his hand, looking musingly in the direction of the feast.
The maiden looks to the Doctor, blushing slightly as he takes the time to clean the tears from her face. She watches, confused, as he raises, giving her his hand, but she can't seem to give air to her question. Her left hand grasps his, shaking, and she lets herself by pulled up, turning to where he looks. "What...," she finally manages to say, going from Alastor to the far lights of the feast.
Alastor smiles in reply, stepping towards the feast and pulling her gently after him. As they move down the path, he glances back at her speaking softly, "There's a seedy elf that I'd recommend avoiding…" His eyes serious, "…but I think most of the others are safe to dance with."
Gail's eyes widen at the prospect of dancing, a small edge of self-consciousness sticking in her stomach, but she ignores it, breaking into a soft chuckle. "You might have to point him out to me...I'm not a good judge of character."
"Given your present company, obviously…" The Doctor replies with a light smile, his steps slowing as he glances to her, "I would claim first dance but…there have been some vicious rumors that I wouldn't want to validate."
Then as the first strands of the http://www.kaihaku.net/BGM/03_ico_you_were_there.mid drift from the clearing, the Doctor shrugs with a smile, "...but why not?" He turns to the maiden, raising her hand with his while placing the other on her hip, leading her into the dance, swaying into the misty forest alongside the trail.
Gail, surprised at first by how quickly the Doctor had decided on this, soon finds herself waltzing in step with him, her free hand pressed against his back. She smiles and closes her eyes, letting the music surround her in this small, unseen sanctuary.

Posted by: Alpha Sun Oct 07, 2007 2:20 pm
Still lost in thought, Tanis continues his trudging through the forest long after it gets dark and after many people at the feast had retired for the evening. Be it the diminished sound or just a random path leads him there, the catfolk soon finds himself on the outskirts of the village once more. Shaking himself out of his reverie-like state, he wanders to where the feast had been held, glancing about to see who was still around.
Kria was humming to herself, perched in a nearby tree, watching the moon, a delicate leg dangling down from the oak, a thoughtful expression on her face.
After a few seconds of looking, Tanis spots Kria’s silhouette not so far away. Moving over towards his friend, he speaks out to her.
“Do you often watch it”, he asks, indicating the dim light in the sky.
"Sometimes. When it's bigger and more shiny." Kria looks down at Tanis, grinning.
Tanis laughs softly at her words, her friendly manner helping to dispel the painful emotions of early. They invoked happier memories of more enjoyable times.
“Just like your bangles then,” he comments, a smile forming to match Kria’s. He then observes the remnants of the feast. “Did you have fun here tonight?”
"Yeah, twas nice. I like, met a whole bunch of people, but I'm going to have a rather bad headache tomorrow..." Kria smiled, standing up and promptly falling out of the tree, flailing upside down in the air as she attempted to correct herself using her wings, eventually standing on the ground. "Well...that...was fun."
Tanis’ eyes widen as Kria topples from her perch. Starting forward reflexively to attempt to catch her, he steps back in relief as she lands safely with the aid of her powers.
“Hm…,” the warmage murmurs contemplatively. “If you say so!” he adds, more brightly. “Had far too much to drink then?”
"I found mead. Do you remember that one time in that one village, and I accidentally happened to get a whole crate of the stuff." Kria sniggered, smiling blithely as she unsteadily walked around Tanis.
“Ah, that explains it then,” the green catfolk says, smiling widely. At the same time, he turns as Kria circles him, in case she suddenly needed support to keep her standing. “And yes, I do remember. Though it seems like such a long time ago now. So much has changed.”
Kria frowned, spinning around with the same inane grin on her face. "Like wha?"
Tanis continues to grin, watching his friend with amusement.
“Ah, Never mind,” he says lightly, before frowning slightly at Kria’s continuing rotations. “Uh, Kria… perhaps you should stop spinning… it might make you ill.”
Kria stopped, and staggered, leaning on Tanis' shoulder. "ill? Nah! I'll be good. I haves...fiend blood! Makes it...harder to be ill!" Kria giggled at this, randomly blasting at a tree.
Supporting Kria, Tanis’ smile dissolves into an uncomfortable expression – he’s never had to deal with intoxicated friends before.
“Kria! Don’t damage the trees! The elves won’t like it at all,” he says, not loudly but with urgency in his voice. “Maybe you should go to bed… or if not, then at least calm down.”
"It'll be fine." Kria sniggered, randomly floating lopsidely into the air. "You worry too much..."
“Of course,” Tanis replies, smiling uneasily. Or, at least trying to. “One of us has to, after all.”
"Bah. Worrying is silly." Kria nodded, fluttering about the place.
“Well, if you say so,” Tanis says, not even bothering to try and argue. Then with a sigh he continues. “Well, I’m tired, so I’m going to go to bed. You should probably think about heading to bed soon too, you know,” the fatespinner adds, trying to sound as reasonable as he can.
"You're no fun..." Kria sighs, looking back at Tanis. She nods then, flying back to her tree.
For a few moments, Tanis says nothing. Then, shrugging, he wishes Kria a good night, and heads off towards the barracks area.
Kria stares after the green catfolk and shakes her head. "Stupid..."

Posted by: Rusty Sun Oct 07, 2007 8:55 pm
*Ombligo patiently waits for Tanis's return, but the catfolk doesn't return. Ombligo had been unable to find numerous people willing to play cards. Most of them were talking amongst themselves or enjoying the feast. Ombligo frowned. I can't believe Tanis...How rude! If he didn't want to play, why didn't he just say so? Floating over a pile of grapes, Ombligo grabs a bundle and quickly scarfs them down rather sloppily. Finding himself bored, Ombligo decides to light up the party a bit with a few crackles of fire and light zipping into the air over the feast. He continues to do this, a large happy face of light and smoke in the air for all to see.*
*Alexander heads towards the strange sign in the sky, curious to its source. He notices Ombligo finishing the smile as he approaches the magic creature.*
: "Uh...hello. What are you doing?"
*Ombligo looks over at Alexander, then turns in mid-air to face him.*
: "What's it look like I'm doing? I'm painting the air for everyone."
*Alexander blinks, examining the simple drawing.*
: "Painting the...that's not staying there, right?"
*Ombligo giggles.*
: "No, I wouldn't do that. It's just for the party. I got bored, and everyone else is busy talking or eating already, so I figured why not?"
*Alexander nods.*
: "Fair enough. What's your name? And, I hope you're not offended by this, but what are you? I've never seen a creature like you before."
*Ombligo twirls in a circle before bowing.*
: "I'm Ombligo, a magic creature. I'm with Sorel's group. Who are you?"
*Alexander is slightly amused by the magic creature.*
: "Ah, you're with Sorel? Interesting indeed...My name is Alexander. I led my group through many battles, eventually meeting up with your force at Megiddo."
: "Wow! You're the leader? We've had a bunch of leaders in our force. First it was Dicem, and I guess for a while it was Max. At least, he had all this experience so he wasn't an official leader but we followed him anyway. Sorel's the current leader, but he doesn't really want the job."
*Alexander tried to interrupt a few times to get a word in, but then he decided to let the magic creature finish.*
: "Wow! You met with Max? He's a legend all over the world. It's interesting that he didn't go back home, but I think he may be even more famous for it. After all, there were all those rumors..."
: "Yeah. Anyway, where are you from? Sorel and I kind of wander all over the place, but I first met him in Ribble."
: "I'm from Balsamo. It's a small, but good town. By any chance, is your employer also Derrik Swiftjoke?"
: "Yup! It's kind of weird that he just appears and disappears like that. What strange merchant! Say, how about a game of cards? Tanis said he'd play a game with me but he hasn't returned."
: "All right, but just one. I have so many people to meet and speak with. I do hope you understand."
*Ombligo responds as he takes out a deck of cards.*
: "Yeah, yeah. That's what leaders do...Anyway, I have to warn you; I'm really good at this."
*Alexander laughs.*
: "I'm sure you are. You've got a deck of your own, after all."
((Result of game...Ombligo wins. No surprise there.))
*Ombligo looks at Alexander.*
: "Would you mind shuffling? I can't."
*Alexander nods before shuffling the deck. He looks at the cards he received before setting them down face up.*
: "I can't honestly remember the last time I sat down and played a game."
: "Are you serious?! Wow! I would hate to never play games. That's no fun. What do you do? Just fight devils? Oh, by the way, I win!"
*Ombligo sets down his cards, bubbling as he wins the game.*
*Alexander laughs as he sees the magic creature win.*
: "Indeed you do. Yes, more or less, it's been my life since the war started. This has actually been the first time in a while where I sat down and relaxed. As I'm sure you know, it's a difficult battle out there, and I can't fully rest until we've finished it - especially since I'm sure the fiends aren't celebrating after we dealt such a blow to them."
: "Yeah, but you're mortal, right? Nobody can keep fighting without ever taking a break. Well, except for maybe Mahler. He doesn't sleep, you know!"
: "Mahler?"
: "Yeah, he's a golem, so he doesn't eat, sleep, or anything like that."
: "I have to say, you have a very interesting group, Ombligo. And to think, most I came across said the same to me. I guess it's not too often someone travels with a dragon, though."
: "Wait, hold on a second. Did you just say you travel with a DRAGON?!"
*Alexander nods, smiling.*
: "Indeed. He's still a young dragon, but he's very powerful and intelligent. He shouldn't be hard to find, should you want to talk to him, and I'm sure he'd be very friendly to you. I mean, you're not exactly unfriendly, so there's no reason for him not to be."
: "Thanks. Yeah, I think I'll try and talk to him. What else is traveling with you?"
: "Do you mean what race are they? Well, we have a very strong Pegasus Knight in Eve. We have Merla, a halfling, and Johann, a gnome. Of course, Johann has his own followers. He was very powerful even before I met him. He was the seer of his tribe, you see. Then there's Laeralas, the elf. I met him with Thavon, the birdman, in Stamp. Ah, Thavon, I hope you recover."
: "Your birdman got injured?"
: "Yes, and just before we reached the last battle in that fortress, too. I hope he recovers...the wounds are bad."
*Ombligo responds with genuine concern.*
: "I'm sorry to hear that..."
: "I'm sure he'll pull through. He's tough. But to finish, there's Caius, a very strong Half-Elf who rips through enemies like they're butter, and the rest of us: Sophie, Enrick, my brother Hal, and myself are all human."
: "Your team sounds pretty interesting too - a lot of aerial support."
: "Indeed. Well, Ombligo, I enjoyed our talk, and I hope to talk to you again, but I'm going to talk to some of your friends now. I won't be a stranger to any of my allies, if I can help it."
*Alexander nods and the two wave to each other as Alex leaves.*
: "Bye! Nice talking to you!"

Posted by: Knight_019 Sun Oct 07, 2007 11:00 pm
*Away from the feast, Mahler stood watching friends partake in the pleasures of food. These occasions always made him feel more alien and less a part of the group. The addition of more unfamiliar faces - adding to those already there - made the feeling all the stronger. On the bright side, he had heard talk about Dr. Coventry, but with no visual confirmation of his presence, Mahler was unsure if it was hopeful speculation or otherwise.
Further exacerbating the problem was the high tensions running through the entire group. Mahler, in most cases, weathered everything the same: steely resolve followed by quiet contemplation and reverie. He had been destroyed, and while on one level it was failure, on another it was complete success. Mahler had stood against a strife lord of immense power, hurt him badly, and directed Xadoss' assault away from others, such as Gorrik, who were failing against the blows. In a way, he had even received a compliment out of it when Xadoss had remarked on his capabilities and compared the golem to himself. While not wanting to associate himself with such evil, it was still confirmation that he was doing his job.
Megiddo had felt like more of a failure, in some ways. Their exploration had been largely uneventful until coming to the command center, and in that he had played only a minor role. He felt somewhat closer to Graigus, but little else.
Mahler begins to walk off into the darkness of the forest. No feelings of malevolence persisted in this safe haven, and it was comforting. More and more, Mahler thought about his now long gone master and the early days. Teachings, companionship, and what he had known then that seemed so long gone and distant now.*
"The Light is all encompassing, enveloping, and warming. You will do well to remember these things as long as you exist."
"But how does one feel the presence of the Light? How does one know that the Light's will is being done?"
"You will know when you are acting in the best interest of other's and defending those who are weaker than yourself. The Light is creator and protector. It provides strength when it seems you have none. It provides light when all others are gone and guidance when you are most lost."
"I see. So, since the Light is everywhere, I will just know and feel when it is right?"
"Exactly. Mahler, I am proud of how well you learn."
"Thank you, Master. I am always glad to be of use."
"No, Mahler. You are more than 'of use.' Always strive to be more than 'of use.' Actively seek out. To be of use implies you only act when called upon. You make me proudest when you act on what you see."
"I understand. Thank you, Master."
*The conversations he and Arbeiten had always left him feeling more complete. It seemed as though such feelings were fewer and far between now that his master was gone. He had friends in Ombligo and Sorel, but Sorel was busy with leadership duties more often now, and Ombligo kept more to himself, or at least busied himself separately more now, gambling and the like. Mahler never forgave himself for letting Sorel die, and more than once. However, he knew that he would have to try harder now. Seeing Sorel collapsed on the floor of Megiddo had given him some fear, but he somehow knew things were right... just as Arbeiten had said. Those teachings had stuck with him, and he would never forget them.
Wandering the forest, far enough away that the fires and gaieties were distant and dim, yet close enough that it would not be a long trek back, Mahler happened upon a small clearing in the trees. Rocks and sticks and plant matter were scattered about. He gathered a pile of stones together, then sat on the ground, and looked up into the trees. The sky was illuminated nicely, though somewhat drowned out by the light from the feasting. Mahler took two small rocks in each hand, then began two separate piles.
Before long, Mahler had two very small, 3 or 4 stone towers begun, then bridged them with a longer stone. A little later, a small person resembling something of himself was left erected, and he stood, looking down to admire his work.*
: Now remember, you stand as a monument to good in the world.
*Mahler began to lecture the unliving homunculus on the nature of the world, life, good, and protection. He found himself repeating things that Arbeiten had once said to him, but also his own take on things he had seen and applications of Arbeiten and the Light's teachings. One might wonder if anyone had imagined a golem of such thought and reasoning. Mahler had gone beyond programming, and on some level he realized it. He was living proof that Coventry had been wrong, yet he did not dwell on it.*
: I'm going to leave you now. Maybe one day I'll see you again.
*He turns away, heading back toward the festivities which were by this time dying down. Some had long gone to bed, others were settling in. Few were still participating in games, introductions, or catching up. As he walked away, Mahler found himself looking back to where he left his statuette. He felt almost guilty leaving it alone, yet it was not alone. Just like he wasn't really alone.*

Posted by: Aldur Sun Oct 07, 2007 11:37 pm
Michael blinks, sauntering over to Ignatius, looking him over, and tilted his head to one side, clearing his throat. "Hello...?" "Huh? Oh. Hello," Ignatius says, turning to face Michael. "Who are you?" "Well, I'm Michael, and you? You do stand out if you don't mind me saying..." Michael smiled amiably, grabbing a nearby drink and tasting. "Hmm. Elf stuff. Bland."
"The dwarf stuff's better," Ignatius says, hoisting a mug. "I'm Ignatius."
"Tends to be. Nice to meet you, so what do you do? And err, what's your race?" Michael put the elven wine down and selected a mug of dwarven ale, and grinned like a cat as he drank it.
"What business is it of yours what my race is?" Ignatius asks, frowning.
"None. Just politely asking." Michael shrugged, swigging his mug. "Making conversation. Socialising, Wanna try it?"
"Sure," Ignatius says, taking another drink. "So... What do you do?"
"Ladies, Men, Creatures of all kinds, but I'm a warlock I would suppose." Michael smiled, and with a flourish, unveiled his brilliant celestial wings.
Ignatius stares at Michael for a long moment. "You... Why would you say that?"
"Why wouldn't I say that? What's to stop me?" Michael winked and laughed, his wings flapping as he floated into the air a little, standing now at eye level with the hulking Ignatius. "Does it bother you?"
"Yes it bothers me! You... You can't just do anyone you please!" Ignatius says, angrily. "People like you... People that don't care about the consequences of their actions... You're why this world stinks so bad!"
"Anyone I please?" Michael frowned. "I don't get it. It's not like I can just snap my fingers and it'll happen." He laughed darkly at this, finding it funny. "I don't care about the consequences of my actions? I wouldn't say that..." He flourishes. "I'd not have these if I was such a person as you describe..."
Ignatius calms down a little. "Then... why say such things?"
"Well it's a habit at this point." Michael shrugged. "You should watch that temper you know. Could getcha into trouble."
Ignatius snorted as he took a drink. "I'm already in trouble."
"Isn't everyone in some way?" Michael grinned.
Ignatius pauses for a moment. "Yeah... Yeah, I guess."
"Well big guy, level! What's up with you?" Michael patted Ignatius on the shoulder, descending back to ground level, drinking away.
"What do you mean?" Ignatius asks. "What do you mean, what's up with me?"
"You said you're in trouble! Good grief, everyone else around here seems to want to tell us their live story, so why ya in trouble?" Michael asked again as he drained his mug, reaching for another
"I'm always in trouble," Ignatius says with a growl. "Just look at me."
"Mmm. You're certainly unique. Why not do something about it?" Michael asks. "You could always take up the arcane and learn how to do illusions and stuff."
"Yeah... Yeah, I never thought of that. Or maybe some shape shifting magic..." Ignatius says, rubbing his chin with a clawed hand.
"Indeed, if you hate yourself that much, do something about it."
"I don't... I don't hate myself..." Ignatius mumbles.
Michael smiled. "Mmm, I figured. Evil blood is a burden but it's what you do with the power it grants, not how you look."
"What?" Ignatius asks. "The power isn't a big deal, it's... it's this infernal face and these bat wings... The claws and fangs..."
"Ignore those who shout at you, for they are the ones that fear change and difference. They cannot be blamed for they are but scared, instead do your best to be yourself and those who truely matter will see your goodness shine through." Michael shut his eyes and smiled wistfully. "Someone said that to me once...back when my warlock powers weren't as...holy as you see."
"Who?"
"A friend at the orphanage. She went into the priesthood."
"She sounds like a very good person," Ignatius says, shifting in his chair. "I... I want to believe her."
"So do I. I guess I was lucky however." Michael flapped his wings as a reminder, and smiled.
"I guess I can see what she meant... I've met more than a few people here who don't seem to mind my... deformity," Ignatius says, quietly.
Michael sighed. "You're not deformed. Your body is not disabled in any fashion, you merely look different. Have confidence in yourself."
"You can't be so simple to think that looking so different isn't a disability in most places," Ignatius says with a snort. "Try ordering at an inn. Or purchasing supplies from a shop. Or even visiting a church to pray! The last chapel chased me out with fire and blessed arrows!"
"Shoulda got them to detect evil." Michael grinned, patting Ignatius. "People's views over time change ya know."
"Not everyone is a paladin, and some that claim to be paladins house hearts that pulse with vile ichor," Ignatius says, anger flickering in his eye.
"Exactly. But they look nice so the idiot rabble are fooled." Michael smiled sadly. "But it's not fair to think less of them because of such. Education, education, education."
"Why? Why not fair?" Ignatius shouts. "Shouldn't they be accountable for such... such EVIL?!"
"If they knew that you had a heart of gold and decided to slaughter you, that would be evil." Michael sighed, picking up another mug. "Ignorance is I feel a crime, but it is far from evil. You brand them evil, and I assume you go by the ethos of 'Destroy the evil'? So you're going to go around slaughtering children who don't know better than to throw a stick at you?
"What? No!" Ignatius says, horrified. "How could you even say such a thing?!"
Michael pointed a finger at Ignatius. "You called their ignorance evil. Children as a rule are ignorant, dependant on their parents and elders for guidance and advice. And their parents and elders can only rely on what they in turn have been taught."
"No... not their ignorance... Their willingness to be ignorant," Ignatius says with a frown. "I've seen some cling to their hate... Cling so hard..."
"I bet they were older." Michael smiled.
"Well... yeah..." Ignatius says. "So?"
"As people get older they get more stubborn and assured they are right merely because of their age. Should they be blamed for this?" Michael frowned. "I guess so, but then...we're all mortal. We are none of us perfect. Should they be punished for that?"
"Everyone should be accountable for their actions!" Ignatius says.
"Interesting." Michael tilts his head to one side. "Why do you fight?"
Ignatius straightens, reciting a simple phrase with utter conviction. "Evil must be opposed."
Michael laughed. "And define evil for me."
Ignatius frowns. "Evil is anything that would harm the innocent or enslave it. Wanton cruelty, excess of greed to the point of harming others... Evil is evil."
"Anything that would harm the innocent?" Michael smiled, and shook his head. "Who are you to decide who is innocent? Who are you to say what is too much?"
"Who am I to stand by and let crimes go unpunished?" Ignatius counters, his voice rising.. "Who am I to let slaves be lashed and the oppressed downtrodden?! I'll tell you who I am to decide who is innocent and what's too much! I'm a man with a conscience, that's what!"
Michael smiled, doing a small cheer. "Excellent! That's it! That's the way! What makes your conscience right?"
"What do you base your scales of righteousness on? When does it become evil? When do you step in? When do you do anything? How do you decide this?" Michael smiled triumphantly. "You get it all from how you're raised."
"But..."Ignatius frowns. "If that's true, what do you say about the people that rejected their parents' teachings? Like Kria?"
"Who?" Michael grinned. "While all children develop their own style, they will emulate their parents in some ways...surely you'd agree? My point is stop being so damn righteous. You're no better or worse than anyone else, set yourself on a pedestal and you'll be knocked off."
Ignatius just stares at Michael for a moment. "How the hell am I righteous? I never said I was better than anyone, I'm just saying that some people act like idiots and they shouldn't get away with it!"
"Instead of comparing and contrasting yourself and others, instead focus on doing as much good as you can." Michael nodded. "Why are you here, with this group?"
"I already told you that," Ignatius says with a frown. "Maybe you should listen instead of talking your face off."
"Too rash. I asked why you fight. I this time asked why you are here now." Michael smiled in a superior manner. "I suppose, how did you end up here would be a better way to put it..."
"Oh. I ran into Sorel's bunch during my travels and just sorta tagged along. You?"
"Much the same." Michael smiled and then hesitated for a moment..."You talk like a Paladin but look kinda fiendish. Got a story there or is it...a taboo?"
Ignatius is quiet for a while. "My mother was a paladin. She was raped by a powerful fiend."
"Well, seems like his plan rather backfired..."
"What plan?" Ignatius asks, quietly.
"Big evil child causing havoc, ruined mother's life...etc." Doesn't seem to be the case. "Powerful fiend huh?"
"Yeah," Ignatius, says, taking another drink
"I wonder if it was better I never knew my parents..." Michael remarked casually. "I could be anything from a streetrat to a bastard prince..."
Ignatius gives a muffled, "I guess." as he finishes his drink.
"How was your mother? And who I guess?"
"Why do you wanna know?" Ignatius says, suddenly wary.
"It's a thing with me." Michael smiles sadly, shrugging as he drains another mug, switching back to wine. "I hear all about people's parents and it just...I dunno, it's a foreign thing, I wanna hear about it since I never experienced it I guess."
"Oh," Ignatius says. "Didn't anyone raise you?"
"Well, we all just looked after each other, the nuns did what they could but..." Michael smiled. "I guess we raised ourselves."
"I thought nuns were supposed to be motherly?" Ignatius asks.
Michael laughed darkly at this, a bitter smile on his face. "And all Kings are supposed to be good rulers..."
"Point taken," Ignatius says with a sigh.
"Well Ig. I think the world sucks. And we're going to save it. But tonight we shall get drunk!" Michael declares loudly, downing the wine with a frown and moving back to the ale.
Ignatius frowns. "I can't get drunk."
"Lies. All lies. Anything can get drunk. We just need to get you a nice big vat! Get drinking!"
"No, you don't understand," Ignatius says, gesturing to a huge stack of empty mugs beside him. "I CAN'T get drunk! I'm immune to poisons, including alcohol!"
"How far have you tested this? Come! We must continue to booze!" Michael grinned, pulling Ignatius along with him, into the throng and closer to more drinks
"Well, I guess it doesn't matter so long as it's tasty like the dwarf stuff..." Ignatius murmurs.
"Damn right! Let's go find us some boozing buddies!" Michael laughs to himself as the two go mingle and socialise...
**
Michael hums to himself, sipping at his ale and then raises an eyebrow as he spots the leader of one of the groups. The teen wanders over, waving to the man. "Hello."
*Alexander nods to the young man.* "Hello. I recognize you...You were with Jim before, weren't you?"
"Yes, I randomly tagged along with them." Michael smirked. "When people appear out of nowhere and fiends descend, you tend to be curious."
Alexander: "Understandable. I'm not sure if you heard my name or not, but I am Alexander. What's your name?"
"Ah, you're with Sophie and those ones...From the empire direction." Michael grinned darkly. "I'm Michael. Tell me, are you going to fix Destonia?"
Alexander: "To be honest, I don't know our next course of action. I'm going to have a talk tomorrow with Jim, Cedric, and Sorel, and possibly a few others should any tag along for it. To my understanding, there are multiple problem areas right now, Destonia of course being one of them. I might be headed that way, but I'm still uncertain. So, I'm sorry that I can't answer that question just yet. Some group will certainly head in that direction, I'm sure. We just haven't sorted out who yet."
Michael nodded. "I see..." He smirked. "So Alex, what do you do? Magic? Beat things? Shoot them? Blast them? Heal?"
*Alex smiles.* "I specialize in slaying fiends and other evil creatures, but mostly fiends. My strength lends itself to my allies, and it's through them where I stand tall. I can't do it alone, of course. I can cast a couple of spells, but more often than not you'll see me using my sword. I'll have to be honest, I'm not very good with ranged weaponry, and as a whole it's not one of my force's strengths. Thankfully, we have numerous forms of travel to get around that."
Michael frowned at this and then giggled. "Who knows? Maybe the groups should mix and match. Sounds like you sorely need someone like me..."
*Alexander nods.* "Yes, we could definitely use some ranged fighters. I really hope that the groups mix at least to a point. I'd really look forward to working with new allies - if not the entire group, then at least a few of the numbers. My force is smaller than the others, though we do have some unique fighters. We'll see how everything and everyone get distributed, I suppose. I definitely intend to talk with my force about it too, though. I don't like the idea of forcing people out of or into groups without talking to them first, you know?"
"Heh, I see. But people adapt. And people who spend too much time together end up with complications of one form or other..." Michael nodded to himself. "Well I'd like to go back to Destonia if anyone is going there..."
Alexander: "True enough. Still, communication is necessary, and we're all fighting this thing together. I don't view any of my companions below or above me, and I will treat my allies similarly. After all, I was nothing more than a farmer before all this started. Anyway, I'll keep that in mind. If I go to Destonia, I'll be sure to ask to have you part of my force. If I end up choosing another place, I'll suggest your name to whoever chooses Destonia."
"Heh, I wonder what'll happen..." Michael grinned and then cleared his throat. "So. What's your story? Why lead such a group?"
Alexander: "Vengeance. Someone needed to stand up to these fiends and avenge those hurt or killed by them and their vile schemes. It's good to see others felt the same way."
"Ah. Revenge, a delicious emotion." Michael laughed darkly. And then sighed. "Justified in this case I guess..."
Alexander: "In any other scenario, I might've let someone else take care of the job. I might've sit back and trusted in some other heroes to fight against the forces of darkness. Fiends in general are evil, wicked beings that seek only to do harm to others either for the sake of destruction or to 'better' themselves. But I had nothing else to lose, save my own life, so I thought I might as well turn my body and soul into a tool to battle evil. I was hoping to avoid the subject, honestly, but I guess it's only expected we'd be talking about it, since it's what brought us all together here."
"No one likes talking about what makes them decide to become killing machines. Just another happy little thing we all do from time to time. Same way we have to judge and justify everything."
Alexander: "I don't even know who I am anymore, beyond what I am. That's the other reason I took it upon myself to start this journey, and it's probably what my brother saw I needed. Naturally, Derrik was there to guide us along the path that eventually led us here."
"Ah, the mystery merchant. Never met him. And finding yourself through slaughter and saviour? Odd concept." Michael tilted his head to one side, studying the Hero. "Heh. Well, whatever you need to tell yourself I guess."
*Alexander squints his eyes in a glare as he looks at Michael.* "Don't be so quick to judge me, Michael. You definitely can't learn a person within just a few minutes, and given you haven't experienced what I have, you can't rightly make any accusations. There's no defending these fiends or what they stand for, simply put. They continue to invade and attack, and all we're doing is forcing them back. When you corner an animal, it will fight to the death, for it has nowhere to go. This is a similar situation. They're backing us into a corner, and either we choose to submit or strike back. I do not take pleasure in having to do this. It's just something I must do."
"Another typical reaction. 'You don't know my pain. You can't possibly imagine...' Heh. In no way am I defending such fiends but...have you talked around this feast? Have you spoken to Ignatius? You would certainly call him a fiend on first glance." Michael smiled, a radiant glow covering him, his celestial wings emerging. "Indeed, even myself...with fiendish power. But redemption is available for all you know."
Alexander: "You're not listening to all of my words, Michael. I did say 'in general', didn't I?"
"No, you didn't actually." Michael remarks dryly.
Alexander: "I do remember saying so, because I know there are always exceptions to the rule, and I make it a point to acknowledge that."
"Oh dear, my memory is slipping. Still, don't be so quick to slaughter. It is not simply fiends you face. Heretics and fanatics...stray sheep, lambs misguided. Even some orphans, simply trying to escape from their fate. Who has the right to end their lives? Who has the right to end any life? We are so selfish, judging and justifying as we must based on our creed..."
"War itself is...horrible. Those who are filled with greed like that idiot fat, piggy, egotistical bastard..." Michael's face hardened into a stony stare at these words.
"Who would start such a series of events for personal gain? Why would they do such? Humans are digusting. We are all such."
Alexander: "...Michael, you're young, aren't you? Not all fiends die, though many do. They're not open to reason. The ones that are are the ones oppressed by the ones that aren't. Fighting in this war...this is the only part of my life that has made sense since it began. Are we to sit back and let them slaughter us simply because 'it may not be right to end their lives'? I pray to the Light everyday and I devote my services to the Light in all things. I try my hardest to do the will of the Light, and as I grow stronger defeating these fiends, I am absolutely certain I have done nothing wrong here.
Many of the gods apparently are unable to help, even. Do we have anyone else to turn to? It seems that we don't, so we must carve our own path. Our message is loud and clear: leave us be or prepare for battle. But they don't listen. If their minds are closed and their will unshakable, there is no other option but to submit or fight. I do not agree with the Emperor of Destonia, and I find him to be just as bad as any of the devils I have faced. Humans are capable of great evil, just as devils, or any other creatures, are. But, humans are also capable of good, just as any other creatures are.
I know what I do is right because I am with the Light and the Light is with me, giving me strength every single day. I refuse to be associated or categorized with anything or anyone considered evil. Why is there war? It's just the way it is. Someone, somewhere, decides something's not right, and they want to change it. I am not fighting to change the world into something it isn't. I'm fighting to restore the world to what it was - a peaceful, or at least mostly peaceful, place. Do I have a right to end lives? No. Does anyone? No.
However, if it means saving others, then I will gladly take the life of the one that seeks to take another's, because if it means saving even one person, it is worth it. Otherwise, what am I? A watcher? A spectator? How pointless would my existence be, then, if I make no difference for the betterment of others? Effectively, I would be killing the innocent if I did not fight the guilty."
Michael simply stared at Alexander, and shook his head. "You're just like her...like something out of a storybook. Where are you from?"
*Alex shakes his head, confused.* "Just like who?"
"Sophie. Hal. All of them, you're all so damn..." Michael shook his head, sighing deeply. "Again, where are you from?"
*Alexander laughs lightly.* "Well, Hal and I were born and raised in Balsamo. Hal left and became a Friar. We met Sophie not long after, as she was also in service of the Light. So, geographically, we were mostly from Balsamo, but otherwise you could say we're from the Light, since that's what drew us together. Well, Hal and I being brothers of course, had something to do with that too." *He finishes, laughing again.*
"Balsamo...I see. I see it now, how it's so easy for you all to think that way..." Michael smiles sadly at Alex, wings vanishing, the teen seeming less whole without them. He turned waving back at Alexander as he walked away. "It was nice to talk to you."
"What way?" *Alex responds, simply.*
"You'd not understand...not yet anyway." Michael smirked as he walked away. "I hope I can show you though..."
"You don't know what I would or would not understand. Feel free to think I wouldn't, though. I can't and wouldn't control your thoughts, after all." *Alex responds.* "If you are part fiend or something and that's why you said what you said, know that I don't think less of you for being what you are, because an individual is not created by race nor actions, but merely by who they are, and their actions reflect who they are." *He continues, whether or not Michael is even staying to hear it.*
"Hahaha, you country bumpkins!" Michael paused, turning back to Alex. "I wasn't referring to that, but if you go to Destonia, I think I'll be able to show what I mean." He nodded, bowed and jumped into the air, flying away from the Hero.

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Mon Oct 08, 2007 6:22 am
Max sighs as a good deal of those assembled have retired to bed by this point. Frowning, he leans over to Anri, peeking over her shoulder. "What are you drawing now?" he asked. "Ah... Nothing," Anri said, swiftly closing the picture she had been sketching of a peaceful forest grove with a full moon overhead. "Just a right time and place."
"What?" Max asked, tilting his head. Then he shrugged and looked back towards the dancing. "They look like they're having fun..." he murmurs with a chuckle. "Youth..."
Anri smiles, getting up. "Youth? Feeling your age?"
"I'm not THAT old," Max says with a laugh. Anri smiled, a hint of mischeif in her eyes.
"Oh? Prove it," Anri said, her smile growing.
"You've got that look in your eyes..." Max said with a little mock concern.
"Let's dance," Anri said, gesturing to the grounds. "Come on, at your age you need to stretch those old bones and muscle..." Anri said with a little laugh.
"At my age? Whose hair is white again?" Max asked playfully, Anri mock slapped him.
"Such a greivous insult on my honor! Now you have no choice but to dance with me," Anri said, primly. "It's the only way to make up for your uncouth manners."
Max grimaced nervously. "Ah... Kidding aside... I don't know if I ever mentioned... That I can't dance?"
"It's easy," Anri said, grabbing Max's hand. "If you can fence with swords and remember the footwork, you can dance a dance."
"But... But..." Max sputtered as Anri led him down to the dance floor. A fell expression crossed the hero's face. "This is all that meddling cat's fault..."
"Quiet you," Anri lightly said as the pair neared the dance grounds. A cheeful, light tune began to play, some courtly piece. Anri smiled as it came on, her face brightening. "Ah... This piece... I know it well. Come on, Max."
"But..." Max started to protest.
"If you don't know how, I'll show you, just follow my lead," Anri said. Max smiled at last.
"All right," he said as he took her hand.
Lighthearted Dance: http://gh.ffshrine.org/song/495/3
The two stepped out onto the dance floor, Max stepping awkwardly around as Anri tried to lead him through the motions of simple dance.
((Poor Max rolled a 4.))
"Well... You weren't kidding about not knowing how to dance..." Anri said teasingly as she spun around Max.
"Well..." Max said with a frown. "I... tried to warn you."
Anri laughed as the two drew closer. She leaned her head against Max's shoulder.
"It doesn't matter..." Anri whispered to Max. "As far as I'm concerned, this is the best court dance I've ever had."
Max blushed only a little to his credit.
Gail, having recently returned to the feast, is guarded as the next song begins, simply swaying to and fro with the tune. However, she soon drops her shield, approching someone with a curtsy and enjoying herself. Though she remains formal and stiff, despite the song playing, she manages to keep her feet from tripping over her partner or otherwise embaressing herself.
Faralon and Kethra twirl around each other, the skilled dancers moving with grace, and more importantly, joy.
Ashathel
The song ended too soon in the opinions of some of those dancing, but another took its place swiftly. This one was faster paced, more lively, and the dancing swiftly changed to reflect that.
A Slightly Drunken Mood: http://gh.ffshrine.org/song/1780/64
As the music begins to speed up, dozens of humans and gnomes stagger into the open space of the clearing. Tentatively they begin to dance, the movements seeming awkward at first. But the jubilation of the moment carries them away, and they start to seem more comfortable.
Spinning on his heels to the rhythm, Ashathel thoroughly enjoys the faster beat of the song. Switching from partner to partner, he nods and grins widely, stepping in time to bring smiles to the faces of numerous women also moving and twisting their bodies to the beat.
Dancers whirl around each other as the dancing becomes a true revel, motion, drink, and joy the orders of the day... Or night as the case may be.
The dancing continues for quite a while into the night, the music filling the air in equal parts with laughter and song. Even the full moon can't shed enough light to match that already in the hearts of the partygoers.

Posted by: Cyrus Mon Oct 08, 2007 12:03 pm
[You know, since the feast is technically still open...] Maria yawns widely, staring down at the unfinished glass of wine before her wryly, "Well, this went long, but...a pretty good night all around." Okori lies obediantly at his host's feet, under the table, as prescribed. He mimics his partner, his snout gaping wide as a soundless yawn escapes. Is it over? Can I eat now?
Maria sighs with a rueful smile, "Not enjoying the local customs?" She tilts her head, "You could always try to steal Jim's dinner...I bet you'd do a lot better than that wolf."
He trapped his dinner with a bomb. A bomb. His hackles raises as he remembers what happened, the huge explosion that nearly blinded him, and he was hundreds of feet away. It'd like for my eyes not to fall out of my head, thank you...though...I could swipe one of those pies.
"Can't say I blame you..." Maria chuckles, then glances down at him, "...or I could just give you one? Or is it more fun to swipe it?" She grins.
The fox looks up, perching himself on the bench to get a better view, simply staring in disbelief. "I can't believe you just asked me that."
"I know..." Maria shakes her head ruefully, "What was I thinking?"
"I'm glad you're seeing reason, now," the fox sees, shaking his head in disappointment before a slight cackle slips out. So what do you think I should go for? You know...other than throw myself at our glorious, grenade-loving leader?
"Well..." Maria sighs, looking at the vast piles of food remaining, "I guess you could sample more of the local diet...it's not so great though." Then a mischievous smile crosses her lips, "Or...if your little foxy belly is all filled up, you could always try out partying as something a bit more human for awhile." She winks, "You'd have to be careful though, don't go running around breaking all the local girl's hearts."
Weren't you listening? I'm starving! Haven't had anything to eat all night... The soul moaned, before looking out to the pavillion where most of the others creatures had migrated. It looked like fun...and suddenly, he didn't feel so hungry anymore. Coming out from under the bench, he shakes the grass and dirt from his fur, and changes, his form wavering more and more as he took another identity. Eventually, he solidifies, stepping into the shoes of a fine half-elvan man, with long red hair and nice, though non-descript clothing...not to mention two tiny fox ears and a twitching tail. He turns to his host, flipping his long locks out of the way with a smirk. "How do I look?"
"Oooooohhhh...." Maria holds a hand over her chest lightly and smiles approvingly, "Be still my fluttering heart!" She shakes her head, "Tsk...almost makes me want to dance." She winks before a worried frown crosses her face, whether serious or in jest is difficult to determine, "Oh, but this will be terrible, all those poor girls..."...and you know how I hate dancing.
The man formerly known as Okori gives Maria a gloating smirk, her emerald eyes narrowing playfully. "Jealous much?" Not waiting for a response, he brushes off his perfectly straight clothing, musses his hair, and straightens his collar. "Right. No matter. Wish me luck." With that, he is off, ready and raring to play the field.
"My little Okori is all grown up..." Maria begins in playful reply though her voice trails away to thoughtful by the end. She stares after him in quiet reflection for a moment, then blinks as something else catches her eye.
=====
The silver-haired maiden, spotting a refined, handsome man coming towards her intently. She sighs, another sharp prick of self conciousness climbing into her gut...breathing deeply, she thinks to herself that it's better to dive in sooner than later, and walks measuredly to this suitor. Coming up to the man, she curtsies properly, showing him a polite smile. "I...apologize for my forwardness...but would you like to dance?"
The red-haired gentleman, having since lost his composure, regains it at her voice, replying with a bow. "I would be delighted to, my dear, but only after I know the identity of who claims to be so forward...and so stunning."
Gail chuckles at the easy and no doubt oft-repeated compliment, her eyes flicking to the most obvious of his features...his vulpine ears. "You're quite the charmer, I see...Call me Gail, please. I..dislike being formal."
"Gail...," the man pauses, as if tasting a fine wine. "A divine name for a divine creature. Please, call me...," he halts in mid-flourish, realising something. The name...I've forgotten the most important part! If I choose the wrong thing, she'll grow suspicious...How did I do this? How do I forget a NAME?! "Nale...Nale Rosefeather. A pleasure to make your acquintance."
Gail chuckles uneasily at the slick speech of Nale, struggling not to actually laugh as his ears twitch during his introduction. "I...feel the same. You seems to be quite unique...especially with ears like that. They look...adorable...they suit you well."
'Nale' looks back, blinking at the maiden. "Ears?" Slowly, he raises a hand to the side of his head, finding a large, furry ear one would expect on an animal. "Oh! Oh, this...I, uh...ahah...I was entertaining earlier...I suppose I forgot about them..." He pushes them down and away, causing them to disappear. Shortly thereafter, he slides a hand down to his tail, pulling it out and rolling it into nothingness. "Can't imagine how long I've been walking around with those on...," he muses with a half-hearted smile.
Gail sighs disappointedly as the man dispels his illusion, having thought it was all rather cute, a nice touch to an otherwise bland costume. "You didn't have to do that...I would have enjoyed the night all the same, if you kept them on."
"It's no matter" the man says quickly, waving off the objection as the band begins to play once more. He extends a hand to her, his right, cordially. "Shall we, then? We don't want to fall too far behind."
Gail nods with a nice smile, taking his hand in her left as the pair begin to dance. Moments pass silently by as the song continues.
"You know, for a woman who hates formality, your steps feel like they're in a court ball," Nale says, looking questioningly into her eyes.
Gail, having been looking to those left sitting, turns back to her partner, sighing. "I'm...not very good at this. I can barely keep from tripping over my own feet, much less yours."
"You seem to be doing plenty fine to me," the gentleman assures with a confident smile. "Who learns if they can do better, if they never try in the first place? And what's the worst that will happen; if you slip, you'll still get up again, right? Why not go right back to dancing, and show you aren't afraid to fall?"
"Please," She says, her voice a mix of annoyance and indecision. "Can't we just dance? I...would rather not worry about how good I am, for once."
Nale stares into Gail's eyes for a moment, watching her reaction closely. "Sure. We can do that."
The dance passes uneventlessly, neither partner looking to each other, not a smile passing between them. The song ends shortly after, the couples parting ways to find others. Gail turns from her partner quickly, only to stop as he rests a hand on her shoulder, looking back to him solemnly.
"Gail," the red-haired man starts, "To see you smile once...for the rest of the night...," he waves his hands over his ears, replacing them with the white-tipped fox ears from before. "I will wear them."
Gail chuckles again, brighter this time, smiling at the apparantly simple act. "You really do look better with them."
Nale's face suddenly becomes deathly serious, pointing a stern finger at the maiden. "You realize I'll hold you to that," he replies, breaking into a handsome smile after he does so. Bowing politing to the woman, he whirls around, tail swishing as he goes off to find another partner.
The silver-haired maiden dons a grimace as she notices the tail, simply watching him walk away. "A tail...I hadn't...isn't that a little much?" After a few moments, she sighs, deciding it's not her business to disturb him again, after a small gesture of kindness, and walks away to find another willing participant that was still concious.

Posted by: Kaihaku Tue Oct 09, 2007 4:57 am
The Doctor sits at a table, watching the dancing with a distant smile as he pours himself a goblet of drink. After a moment, he begins to idly tap a foot along with the music while sipping quietly, his eyes darting along the tables hunting down those remaining thoughtfully.
Maria walks along the tables, her eyes glancing after the foxling from time to time, as she makes her way to where the Doctor sits.
Maria feels a slight undercurrent of annoyance. How could you let me go out like that?
I thought they were cute... The psion replies with a slight frown, she shrugs with a dark look at the silver haired maiden, ...some people just have no taste.
No, she liked them, too...I don't, though. Had to tell her I was entertaining someone with a spell. At least now I don't look like a complete fool.
You don't like your ears? ...or your tail? Maria replies taken aback. Why...why ever not?
It's not that I don't like them, it's that it conflicts. Humans tend not to have strange tails or ears popping out in places they shouldn't, so I tend not to like them on me when I'm...not myself.
Maria chuckles quietly, shaking her head, Well, I'm human and I like them. Then she waves to the lonely figure she is approaching, a grin on her face, "Hey Doc!"
The Doctor glances up with a hint of a smile, "Ah…hello…" He chuckles, rubbing his head ruefully, "What was your name, again?"
"Maria." Maria says with a light chuckle, taking a seat with a slight nod, "I wanted to thank you…" She arches an eyebrow, "…but you've been hard to track down, don't like to stay in one place long?"
"I guess it’s a trait I acquired from my father…" The Doctor replies musingly, glancing at the dancers before turning back to the Psion, "…he was afflicted with incurable wanderlust."
"Is that so?" Maria chuckles awkwardly, then sighs as she looks at him seriously, "Thanks for helping me out, Doc. I appreciate it." She hesitates for a moment, then adds meaningfully, "It's not a favor I can ever repay…but I mean to try…"
Something flashes in the eyes of the Doctor in the instant before he turns away to look at the dancers once more, his reply dark and quiet, "It wasn't a favor… I did it because I wanted to, there's no obligation."
The psion arches an eyebrow, "That may be…but…" She sighs and shakes her head, "…well, I'm grateful regardless."
The Doctor nods distantly, "You're welcome."
The psion waits silently for a few minutes, then receiving no further reply stands and makes her way back to her table with a frown. There's no understanding some people…

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