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

Posted by: Rusty Sat Jul 09, 2005 11:43 pm
((Here we go! ^_^ The much awaited, thankfully not long awaited, sequel to Shining Force: The Chaos War Part I!))

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Sun Jul 10, 2005 12:14 am
Welcome, travellers... Do not be alarmed. We sense and guide all those who come here. You seek to make a stand, do you? To oppose the great darkness that seethes within this troubled land? I see. There is hope yet after all... The time to prepare is over. The time to begin is now. This time... your time... is forthcoming.
And like so many other things... time... is far more complex than you suspect.
Good journey, heroes.
http://magic19.homestead.com/files/02TitleScreen.mp3
Shining Force: The Chaos War
Cypress Campaign: Siege of the Strife Lords.
http://magic19.homestead.com/files/03Welcome.mp3
The capital city of Cypress, Cypress Castle, is a town built at the foot of the mountain where the city's namesake lies. The actual Castle of Cypress stands on a high mountain, overlooking a narrow trail of cliffs as well as its city. Travelers tarry within its confines, troubled by the rumors of recent war and mayhem, many with further destinations are hesistant to leave the safety of its walls.
There are also dark rumors concerning the lost Prince.
Concerned with the number of missing people and destroyed caravans, he set out with his warband of old, the second Shining Force, to meet and confront that which threatened his people.
Some claim he met and bested a foul beast in the depths of the wilderness, only to succumb to his wounds moments after.
Others claim him to be alive, but unable to return as he has discovered a greater evil than the mysterious beast he set out to destroy, and now seeks to end it.
Finally, there are those doomcriers that say he fell into a trap, and like its sister kingdom of Guardiana, it is not long before Cypress falls into chaos and strife.
But there is still faith and hope among the people. For each time a great evil has arisen, has not great good driven it back?
As for you... One by one, you received an invitation for a private job offer. Promising fortune, glory, and the opportunity to serve the good of the people, the missives command only that you be in Cypress on a certain day, in a certain place, at a certain time.
That day is today.
The place is the castle keep's main gate.
The time is in an hour.
Do as you will.

Posted by: Wandering Dezorian Sun Jul 10, 2005 4:21 am
For once, the merchant wasn't crying aloud, hawking his wares. For once, he wasn't watching the citizens of the city, trying to remember what it meant to be civilized. For once, his beak wasn't buried in books and scrolls describing ancient treks to far off lands. Instead, he was brooding.
Fortune, he had no desire for. Money led to corruption, and any more than his minor income as a common and honest merchant, the birdman felt, would lead to the loss of his own ideals. Glory? He was a soldier from Bedoe. He had served in the harsh and frozen north for years, served with distinction as a scout on the front lines. What need had he of glory? How would that satisfy his true dreams, dreams of peaceful life and calm exploration.
To serve the good of the people...
Staring at a small bundle in oil-soaked cloth lying at his feet in the simple wagon, the sturdily built birdman tried to think things through. On the one hand, this was often the lure used by dirty men seeking idealistic youths to serve in hard and honorless work, work which in the end served neither the people or the workers. Stir up the blood, fire the spirit and take up arms against the enemies of the people.
On the other hand, it could also be an honest attempt to create a force of irregulars against a real threat. Calling on the common drives of youth... Fame, money, or idealism. If that were the case, he would be needed. His skills, but more importantly, his experiences, which had dampened the impulsive nature of youth.
But how to figure out which was the real situation?
If he appeared in full uniform, arms and armor clean and ready, they would tell him whatever they needed to to secure his abilities. They would do the same for anyone they thought could help them reach their goals. But if he appeared just as he did now, a simple merchant in worn leathers, walking stick in one hand, other hand holding the bridle of his horse and laden cart, they might not try as hard. And he might see the truth of the matter more easily.
Nodding to himself, Brand set about harnessing Hardfoot to his cart, and began leisurely making his way towards the gates of the keep, stopping whenever a passing pedestrian seemed to take intrest in his wares.

Posted by: Knight_019 Sun Jul 10, 2005 5:32 am
*How long had it been since he had come to Cypress? Months? Some time more? The years had gone by with only him, his bow, and memories for company. Merkass longed to roam the plains once more. He longed to see his people, and he longed for the thrill of the hunt. The piddling, trifling tasks he had been sent on were naught but errands. Merkass had come to prevent further crises like those he had faced all that time ago. The event, still vivid in his mind as though it could be real and happening now, had never faded. It was not the Catfolk way to forget. To forget was to lose a part of oneself, to leave nature in some way, and to lose something precious. The broken hilt of his treasured dagger and the red ribbon tied to his silvered combat dagger would ensure that the past would not fade from his memory.
Merkass stood by a fountain in the city leaning on his abnormally dark bow, breathing in the air, and looking to the sky. He closed his eyes and breathed in deep, then exhaled slowly. Opening his eyes he turned toward the waters of the fountain, looking in and pondering his reflection. He had received a summons and now he could repay what the city had given him. Though they did not understand his culture, they had given him something of theirs. Merkass had been shown these people's goodness, humanity, loyalty, and devotion, and it kept him Cypress and willing to aid them. He could be at home with his tribe and readying for a war and attempting to lead them somewhere, but there is far more to motivation than some petty revenge or obsessing belief. Such ideas would not quell the dark forces behind the past. Only action for the greater good could do such a thing, and now was his chance.
He made his way to the main gate of the castle. On his way he saw a small piece of rope that had been invariably thrown from a wagon cart, dropped, or cut from something. He bent over, picked it up, and tied it around his long, braided mane in the back as he walked toward the gate. Though he had no interest in the political machine of the city or promoting its own generally double-sided objectives, he couldn't help but wonder what his actions would lead to. How many people would he and any others who may have received a similar calling may prove to accomplish. Rumor has it that there is interest in looking for the prince. The prince who may or may not be alive, or who may or may not be fighting some incredible monstrosity and/or great evil. The question Merkass was interested in, however, is if the search is for finding a prince so that Cypress doesn't lose a prince, or if it is to have a leader against the rising tide of evil. The line between each motive is invariably thin and more than likely well worn. Merkass stood by, however, and gazed at at any who might also tread this same path that he had now begun. A merchant seemed to be heading in this direction, though his frequent stops told little more than an intent to make rounds. The merchant continued toward the castle gate, however, and he seemed to eye it intently, and so Merkass assumed he would be headed Merkass' way.
To himself, he whispered*
: Just what do the lords of Cypress intend...?

Posted by: Rusty Sun Jul 10, 2005 9:24 am
*So this is Cypress, Faralon thought to himself. He hadn't traveled much outside of his hometown, Brodaleaf, so this was an entirely new experience for him. The young elf takes a deep breath in, taking in the atmosphere. The world here is a very different world in his homeland. It had its own sort of beauty, but lacked greatly in what the elves held high. The wasn't much nature about. There weren't nearly as many trees in Cypress as in Brodaleaf. Furthermore, animals were kept as pets, not friends, and human behavior seemed a bit rude at times, not that the young elf was very good in that respect, himself. Faralon wasn't too bothered, however, as two of his favorite things were present in the large, bustling town: women, and crowds. Faralon did not come to Cypress solely for the contents of which the letter spoke, though he was indeed rather charmed by the promise of fortune and glory. Faralon also journeyed to Cypress for a bit of a vacation: to flirt with the women present and to entertain large groups of people, to spread his name across the land. Faralon was anything but humble, and wanted nothing more than to be known all across the continents as a great, or perhaps the greatest, performer. At the very thought, Faralon reached and pulled his lute out from his back, where it had previously rested. He sits down, in deep thought, before playing a peaceful tune for himself, and the surrounding group before him.*
((Perform check...Natural 20 o_O I kid you not. That's +10 with my CHA modifier, so 30...Maybe it's 32 with the Masterwork? Ahh well, it doesn't matter. lol))
*His very tune soothes himself, and lets his own mind wander. I left Brodaleaf only a few days ago...And now, my life is about to change. Father probably won't like the decision I've made, but he's never liked any decision I've ever made...Except taking up the lute he and mother bought me. Ah...That brings me back...Things were so different for me, then. Heh, I wasn't even trained with a sword, then. Now look at me...I'm serving Cypress. What an unexpected chain of events that have led me to this. This was just supposed to be a vacation...But luck would have it, the opportunity of a lifetime came to me. How could I have said no? My brother is here with me, as well, no doubt watching over me for father. Why can't they just leave me be? I can take care of myself. I don't need them sheltering me any longer. That was, of course, my very reason for leaving home...I've been sheltered from the outside world far too long. I want to experience new things...meet new people...and go on adventures so that I may someday write lyrics to go with my music. Finishing the tune, Faralon sits back against the wall, carefully eyeing the group.*

Posted by: Cyrus Sun Jul 10, 2005 9:37 am
The child just kept staring at him, not in fear or disgust, but in awe. She had been standing there for quite a while, mouth open and eyes glistening against the sun, looking as far up as her neck would allow it. Not that he was doing anything spetacular; all he was doing was looking a crumpled piece of molded-over piece of paper called a map. He gotten from a 'reliable' source, and right now, he truly regretted the waste of that money. Worthless..., he thought as he read over the rather detailed fraud, I'll see he gets his when I get back. Crushing the paper, he tosses it over his shoulder and walks away as the child's mother comes and drags them both inside, away from the 'horrible monster'. He felt slight relief as he heard the door slam; it was odd not being feared, even if it was by one who didn't know enough to fear. He decided not to ponder it...he had more important things to attend to.
He didn't even know why he had bothered to buy a map. A minotaur would never lose its way in a maze, why should a simple town be all that difficult to navigate? Some simple logic, and he should see the gates in no time. He avoided areas of heavy traffic, as a panic in the streets was not high on his agenda today. He crossed the path of a rather shady looking man, though, whose gait increased dramatically when they had passed ways. He recalled why he was doing this. Glory would just draw more attention to him, and the good of the people? He snorted at the thought. The people were barely good enough to deserve such. Money was what he was after; it made this little sub-sphere go round, and the more he had, the less contact he had to have with these skiddish xenophobes. As he came out of a rather spacious back alley, he saw what he could only think was the gates to the inner keep of the castle. After nothing better to do, he leaned up against a nearby wall, waiting for the time of appointment.

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Sun Jul 10, 2005 9:44 am
Faralon's performance draws the attention of everyone that passes, and eventually a crowd gathers, seemingly enraptured by his music. A large number of coins and roaring applause both greet the bard at the end of his songs. Cheers for encores abound as the rich drop platinum, the moderately well off drop gold, and the rest drop silver and copper at Faralon's feet. But nearly everyone that passes contributes something for the music.
"That song reminds me of the good old days... Before all the war," sighs one old man wistfully as he drops a gold coin near Faralon.
"Such a beautiful tone... It reminds me of my wife..." a wealthy looking man says, dropping a few platinum near Faralon. "If ever you're looking for a steady job, I could use an entertainer such as yourself at my estate."
"Music such as that soothes the soul... when mere words are useless..." one girl sighs, her face looking far out into the sky.
((Faralon gains 15 platinum and 80 gold pieces... and a whole lot of attention. That's the power of a natural 20. The crowd looks to be about 50 people.))

Posted by: Arcdragnbreth Sun Jul 10, 2005 3:03 pm
A lone figure, standing outside of the circle of spectators, watched the performing elf with a mixture of admiration and pride. The tune was one the bystander had heard before, one he could trace back to his roots as easily as he could trace the roots of the lute player. Weaving almost magically between the crowd, Ashathel Faesan came to rest next to the performer, a slight grin on his face.
"You always were good at pleasing the crowd," the blonde-haired elf said in his native tongue. "How much longer until the meeting is supposed to take place?"

Posted by: Dark Maiden Sun Jul 10, 2005 3:22 pm
Standing not too far from the front gates of Cypress Castle is a young woman, looking over a piece of paper in her hands. It is an invitation of sorts for a private job offer, one that promises fortune, glory, and the chance to serve the good of the people. Fortune meant nothing to one so used to simple surroundings, but the concept of glory was not totally out of her mind. A chance to serve the good of the people, however, was this young woman's primary motivation. That and a chance to improve herself physically and spiritually.
"The meeting time is within an hour. Perhaps I should be off."
She folds the paper back up and slips it into her belt pouch once again, then heads off deeper into the city. Like any adventurer, this one also has a name---Kethra Stormwind. The young half elf stares at her surroundings in awe, for she has never seen a city as grand and large as this one. Though no one could tell from her appearance, she is a Monk, and thus the fact that she has never been outside of a monastery until now is by no means surprising.
"This city is huge. I pray that I do not get lost."
As she wades through the small groups of people in the city, she cannot help but notice that she is attracting attention. Kethra is indeed a beautiful woman; a bit smaller than an average human woman with a slender but well toned body. Her soft honey blond hair seems to shine when the light hits it just right and her crystal clear blue eyes dart back and forth nervously. She is pale skinned which is to be expected of even a half elf, and bears no marks that can be seen. Her clothing consists of a dark blue short sleeved shirt with gold trim on the sleeves, color, and about a quarter of the way down the side of her shirt as well. The color comes only a mere inch below the top of her neck, and it is held closed by two gold buttons that look something like ribbons. Her pants are white and reach only an inch above her ankles, and flat black shoes are all that protect her feet. While her style of dress is a little bit unusual (oriental), and rather simple, it is decent and modest. It is her face and the fact that she is not doing a very good job of slinking around that has attracted attention and it seems to bother her.
"I hate when this happens."
Kethra leaves the area with much haste and lets out a sigh of relief when the stares stop and no one follows. With her keen sight, however, she cannot help notice a crowd gathering not too far away, and a soft, soothing melody playing. Curious to the source of the music, she walks over to where they are gathered, just as the music stops. Her gaze focuses on the elf sitting there with a lute, and her eyes widen.
"That music was so beautiful. Could this elf have been the one playing it?"
Kethra tries to go unnoticed, but she is so nervous that she freezes up, and her beauty makes her stick out like a soar thumb to Faralon.
((Let us see. This is the result of a 21 on my spot check, and a natural 1 on my hide check. Poor Kethra just has to embarrass herself in front of a stranger, doesn't she? ))

Posted by: Damas Heretic Sun Jul 10, 2005 7:56 pm
Seated outside a tavern in Cypress was a young elven male sorcerer dressed in a grayish colored cloak with a crimson lining, as well as a blackened tank top with some sort of awkward symbol on the center of the chest. On his arms were torn up sleeve like garments and his hands and wrists were coverd in silver bracelets blackened gloves and rings with some kind of rune like inscriptions on them. More than likely for looks. His lower torso was covered by a blood red sash that drug on the ground behind him along with thick leather belts and torn up black and gray pants and a pair of hiking boots with silver rings around the ankles. His facial features were coverd by the bangs of his waist length raven black locks and his ruby red hues stare at the ground somewhat coldly as a faint sigh escapes his lips.
"Well I suppose I'd best move along if I expect to find these other adventurers and benefit any from this so called quest... This had best be worth it."
As he slowly stands and dust himself off a small rat pops it's head out from a small fold in his cloak near his shoulder and neck. It's whisker's twitching a bit as it looks about through coal black hues. The elven male known as Damas Heretic ignores the rodent however and continues on his way. Eventually coming across the path of the path of the half elven monk called Kethra bumping in to her being he wasn't paying the greatest ammount of attention to where he was going and as he steps back to keep from falling over he quickly raises his head to yell at her for being in his way though upon seeing her face he freezes and his crimson colored hues widen.
"U...uh..."
Well this certainly was an unexpected turn of events. Of all the weaknesses in the world he had one for gorgeous women. And of course he couldn't pry his eyes away from her and more embarrassing yet he tried to speak but no words came from his mouth some all mighty sorcerer this bumbling fool was.

Posted by: Dark Maiden Sun Jul 10, 2005 8:27 pm
((Damn you to hell for making Kethra look even more like a fool, Eric )) Kethra staggers slightly but her amazing balance keeps her from falling down. Her gaze turns briefly to the elven sorcerer behind her, and her cheeks suddenly flush bright crimson.
"Uh...are you ok?" she asks in a soft, mousy voice.

Posted by: DragonmasterDon1 Sun Jul 10, 2005 9:19 pm
Isyndel Rhoe'wyn shifted uneasily in her dress when she stepped foot inside of Cypress. It wasn't an unfamiliar place to her to say the least; she had visited scarcely a few years ago to peruse the local library and even attempted to visit the Castle itself. The visit had not been particularly eventful but the hospitality was certainly not what she would have expected, even from humans. For the most part though the city caused her no strife; it was a bit different from other cities in that it often seemed that the caretakers had some respect for retaining nature's beauty even if they had surrounded much of it with stone.
She walked ever-so-gracefully down the streets, gear slung to her back with the exception of her favorite tome, a collection of spells. Isyndel clutched the tome tightly to her breast, folding her arms around it as she moved.
Somewhere not far off, she could feel Sleet's eyes glaring at her. Isyndel knew not exactly where the source was, but the feeling was unconditionally her feline friend. The little black cat stepped anxiously in the shadows of nearby trees but was careful to not step out into the light.
Finally she found a gathering of people in the square. Isyndel came to her toes to look above the crowd but stayed as far to its outskirts as possible. Her eyes widened when they lay upon the source of the crowd.
"I do not believe this."

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Sun Jul 10, 2005 9:31 pm
At the best of times, Zook had trouble in crowds. The bustling capital of Cypress, after a wearisome journey down-mountain, could hardly be called the best of times. Breathing deeply, he struggled his diminuitive frame through the claustrophobic crush of life that he had been caught in, the crowd that had formed around Faralon. Taking special care not to step on anyone and extra special care to not get stepped on himself, Zook managed to negotiate a path through the human wall.
The gnome reached into his satchel and produced his first creation, his pride and joy, a small brass pocketwatch. Checking the time against that specified on the summons, Zook knew that he had just under an hour to spare. He had absolutely no desire to stay in the square, so he followed the roads leading to the gate of Cypress Keep.
Zook had lived his life in the mountains, but he could not help profound admiration for the man-made mountain he now surveyed, the colossus hewn by mind and muscle. He approached the Keep, studying it intently ((Knowledge[Architecture and Engineering] Check: 12 + 10 = 22)). As he came within arm's reach of the outer wall, he ran his hands over the smooth surface, almost preternaturally chill. Zook sighed contentedly. There was so much more he had to learn, and so much potential for learning here. He could sense it.
Seeing the minotaur leaning against the wall a few feet down, at the gate, Zook pegged him as a fellow adventurer; he walked toward him and waved the watch-free hand.
"A fine day for an adventure, is it not?"

Posted by: Kaihaku Sun Jul 10, 2005 9:39 pm
Aglow in the brilliant afternoon sun, the Castle of Cypress looked out over the land its inhabitants ruled from its perch high in the mountains. Far beneath it rested the city that had grown up around the city. Roads from all corners of Cypress crossed here and it was down one of these well traveled worn paths that a traveler walked.
The traveler was large and well build, easily seen to be strong and in good health. His face was noble, strong dark blue eyes framed by a slightly disheveled ruddy brown beard. His body was covered in armor, thin pieces of metal laid one atop another. Patterned after the natural scales of a dragon this scale mail provided decent defense in battle and marked the traveler as a warrior. A small pouch hung at his belt. Short chains hung limply from the gauntlets on his hands. Old leather boots were on his feet. Around his neck hung a silver statuette of a beautiful woman marking him as a follower of Mitula. Hanging loosely over his back was a worn brown cloak and strapped over this was a long large hammer. The traveler's equipment was in good condition but was worn and clearly had put to use often. Everything from the cloak on his back, to his armor, to his boots was covered in a thin layer of dust showing that he had been on the road for sometime. Behind him, lead by a rope the traveler held lightly, was a mule laden with gear and provisions.
Coming to a halt atop a small hill, the traveler paused and a smile came to his lips as his eyes looked to the city. It was the look of one who had nearly reached his destination. The mule also must have noted the city ahead and it did not pause, continuing forward at a slightly increased speed with the look of one who had nearly reached food and rest. The traveler chuckled at this and started forward, increasing his own speed.
The dusty path the pair had been following merged with a fine paved road as they neared the city. Approaching the main gate, the traveler slowly entered the city without fanfare. Despite his worn and weathered appearance, there was something about the traveler that caught the eye. It may just have been his towering frame but then at times there almost seemed to be a light in his eyes.
He paused for a moment inside the gate, looking around at the people amassed in the city and the smile on his face widened. A genuine joy at the sight of so many people simply living their lives shone in his eyes.
[Spot 17]
His eyes settled on the elf who seemed the center of attention for a moment, for another moment on a slight disturbance in the crowd centered around a young elf maiden, and finally on the cart of a merchant rolling down the street. Then the traveler sighed deeply and contently before taking a few steps to the side and closing his eyes; his face growing cautious and intent.
[Detect Evil]

Posted by: Cyrus Mon Jul 11, 2005 1:26 am
Castor looked down at the little gnome, smirking at his question. "I came here on a job," he told the gnome gruffly, "I never signed up for some grand journey." Besides, this wasn't his idea of adventure. Adventure was...oh, what the hell did he know of adventure. He wasted his youth drawing pretty pictures, and his more civilized life wasn't exactly the stuff legends were made of. Besides, no one would bring a mino...Wait. He looked back at the gnome, realized what he had just said, then rifled around in his pockets to draw a small slip of paper a short while later. "You mean," he asked, showing the gnome the note, "You got one of these?"

Posted by: Twitch Mon Jul 11, 2005 4:04 am
Gabriel dropped his backpack to the ground, and stretched his muscled arms. : "So, this is the place I've seen in my dreams.... Quaint." He thought to himself as he looked upon the city walls. He picked his pack up and slung it back over his shoulder. He'd been to Cypress once before, a long time ago... It felt like several lifetimes had passed since then. He barely remembered it, just enough to know that the dreams, no... nightmares, were leading him to this place. Tracing his finger along a scar that ran the length of his bicep, the half giant shrugged and began to make his way into the heart of the city.
As he made his way through the streets, letting his instincts guide him, he came across a group of people gathered around an elf playing a song. The melody stirred something within him, and gave him pause. Leaning against the side of a building nearby, he closed his eyes and lost himself within the song.

Posted by: Rusty Mon Jul 11, 2005 7:23 am
*Faralon grins, replying, "Thank you" to all of the contributors. It had, admittedly, been his best performance yet. A piece he played often, but...The mood really made it what it was. I even amaze myself sometimes, thought the young elf. Turning to his brother, Faralon nods.*
: Ah, it shouldn't be much longer. I imagine if we walk to and from the castle a few times, that would be plenty long enough. The castle isn't that far, though, so we've still some time to...
*Faralon catches the half-elf out of the corner of his eyes. He smirks as he stands up, putting his lute on his back once more. He gazes at her, focusing his eyes on hers noticeably, but only for a moment.*
: Sight-see...
*Such music certainly has gained the presence of many beautiful women. Faralon couldn't resist speaking with some of them. So, he casually walks over to her, ignoring the scene between her and Damas.*
: Ah, excuse me. What brings you to this fine town of Cypress?
*Faralon tries to speak as if he is very familiar with the town. It is not difficult to tell that the woman is very uncomfortable and unfamiliar with the surroundings, so he takes advantage of this to spark up a bit of conversation.*

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Mon Jul 11, 2005 10:28 am
Zook nods excitedly, producing his own note from his satchel. "You see? And there will be others, too. I'm almost certain of it." He returns the note to his satchel in a deft motion. "We're being assembled, you see. Like the cogs of a finely constructed clock." Zook waves his watch around for emphasis.
Suddenly the gnome seemed upset, as if he had committed an indignity. "Dear me, where are my manners? My name Zook Jimbeddo Bollynock Frenkalter Steamwhistle Aleslosh. Most people just call me Zook." He extends a small hand upward to the minotaur.

Posted by: Critical Mass Mon Jul 11, 2005 10:38 am
Rhizor Eyclone wakes to the sound of the music. He'd fallen asleep up in the shadows of the gate, perched upside-down from an extruding brick in the massive arch. The strange bat-like creature unfurls his wings from around his body to stretch them in the midday breeze, his arms remaining folded accross his chest.
The batling is rather small, coming in at roughly three and a half feet tall, though it's fairly hard to tell exactly from directly below it. He looks vaguely humanoid, with powerful clawed feet attached directly to his legless body, perfect for hanging and standing but obviously not built for walking, and a pair of large leathery wings that protrude from his back, each of which ends in another pair of small grasping claws. Short, thick, black hair covers his entire body and his head is that of some sort of giant bat, but a keen intelligence lurks behind those bestial red eyes. Rhizor wears only a simple belt with several hanging pouches and a wraparound loincloth of leather, securely tied. Despite his dimunative stature his bestial features and fierce demeanor give him a perpetually fearsome look, the tight muscled cords of his arms doing nothing to dispel the illusion.
Eyclone frowns to himself as he looks down at the gathering crowd below, noting specifically the elves, the gnome, and the minotaur. They seemed most out of place, and it'd make sense that he wasn't the only person to receive a mysterious summons. Fortune, fame, and work for the greater good... Rhizor didn't particularly care about the first two and wasn't exactly sold on the legitimacy of the third, but he'd resolved to at least see what it was all about out of curiosity if nothing else. The batling yawns and hooks his wings back around his body, quietly waiting for his nameless caller to show himself.

Posted by: Wandering Dezorian Mon Jul 11, 2005 3:02 pm
Spot (11+9) = 20 Listen (3+7) = 10 Profession(Merchant) (16+3) = 19 Slowly making his way, stopping to barter his simple goods to those who needed them, the birdman merchant took a good long look at the gate as he walked. A crowd had gathered a little ways off, though he couldn't tell why. A man... no, an elf, he corrected himself... was putting away some sort of instrument, but the birdman hadn't heard any music.
Probably just the din.
Another slow scan around to see what sort of companions he should expect revealed a minotaur talking with someone, but the soldier couldn't see with whom. From the next street over strode a powerfully built human in full armor. Priest, paladin, or simple soldier, Brand couldn't tell. A small huddle of elves off to the side of the dispersing croud stood in relaxed conversation, an unusual sight in a human city, or so he thought. Of course, he hadn't been to many cities yet. None had a fighter's build, though. Of course, he thought with a silent smile, what elf ever did?
Suddenly it registered that he was being asked a question, and he turned, embarassed, to find a woman in a simple peasant's skirt asking the price of turnips. He replied, but as the two haggled, he couldn't help analyzing the combat abilities of those he had seen earlier in the back of his mind.

Posted by: Dark Maiden Mon Jul 11, 2005 10:39 pm
Kethra cannot help becoming nervous when Faralon's gaze locks with her's, even though it is only for a moment. She noticeably blushes and even brighter shade of red, and stutters when she tries to speak, at first. "I-I...um..." Oh damnit Kethra, pull yourself together! You could easily beat this guy into the ground if he tries anything, so what is there to be afraid of?
She sighs heavily then takes in a deep breath of air, and releases it from her lungs. After this she feels a little bit better and her face starts to turn back to its normal color.
"Actually, I am here about a job. Now that I think about it, the meeting is supposed to be within the hour."
It is about now that Kethra remembers the elf that had bumped into her, and she turns around to face him. Though nervous, she takes his hand in hers and pulls him up to his feet and smiles.
"You really should be more careful." I wonder if they are here for the same reason as me.
Kethra reaches into her pouch and pulls out the folded note, holding it up for Faralon and Damas to see.
"I find it hard to believe that this many adventurers would be in the same town at the same time without a reason. Did either of you get a note like this by any chance?"
((Is poor Kethra to be caught in an affection triangle already?))

Posted by: Aldur Mon Jul 11, 2005 11:16 pm
(( Oh come on DM. You without love triangles is me without pr0-I'd better not develope that point...)) Amelios wandered through the streets, enjoying the crowd and noticed the two elves bump into each other. He chuckled to himself and moved over to help, only to be beaten by yet another elf. He wondered what so many would be doing here in the capital.
((Listen check 1+4=5, dang I got screwed over.))
Unfortunately for the cheery cleric he failed to overhear the focus of the conversation. His sharp Kyantol eyes however did notice the folded note in her hand and it did look somewhat like his own. he took it out and headed over to the three, smiling at them.
((spot check: 17+4=21))
"Greetings. May the blessings of Mitula be upon you all. Excuse me Miss, But would your letter there be the same as my own?"
The Kyantol cleric smiled cheerily at the three, holding out his own invitation to the girl.

Posted by: Rusty Mon Jul 11, 2005 11:23 pm
((Mayhaps.)) *Faralon smirks, keeping his eyes focused on Kethra's.* ((Sense motive...14 - 1 = 13.)) : Ah yes, I did. I'm to be there at the same time, in fact. *Faralon's smirk broadens.*
: In fact...I was playing a tune to pass the time. Could you hear it from here?
*He already knew she could - otherwise she wouldn't have stopped to listen. He didn't want the conversation to end just there, however.*

Posted by: Damas Heretic Mon Jul 11, 2005 11:34 pm
Damas remains silent for a moment, trying to keep his cool being he was a tad irritated about bumping in to the half elf known as Kethra like any common fool. He sighs and glances to the note before deciding to speak up. "I obtained a note, though I doubt our reasons for being here are the same. I'm just here to look out for number one, and I could really care less if the world comes to an end."
With that said, the seemingly cold hearted elven sorcerer crosses his arms over his chest.

Posted by: Century Mon Jul 11, 2005 11:35 pm
~A gentle breeze wafted through tawny feathers as Elias glided gently towards the roadside. A strange look from a passing merchant, his goods being hauled on a caravan by a small team of tired-looking donkeys, did little to bother Elias as he closed his wings about himself. He was well aware that his kind were not often seen, and looks such as those were common-place. He walked on as the caravan slowed, one of the donkeys relieving himself at the dismay of the driver, who merely wanted to finally get into Cypress and make it to an inn for the evening. Elias shuddered briefly at the grim snap of a whip, but walked on regardless~
~Correcting his leather tunic, a simple home-made garment which had long since lost its green and gold dye to the field, Elias ventured towards the grand city, dwarfed and overshadowed by the vast grey peak behind. The young birdman enjoyed the prospect of such a city - his own homeland of Bedoe was situated in a similar fashion, though this land of bustling humans and their closely-related kin was truly a far screech from his beloved Bedoe. It had been a long time since Elias had flown from those lofty halls, since the call of the outside world had tempted him to finally take to the skies. It was at times like these he longed to return, yet in the same instant he felt the inescapable lure of adventure, the thought of seeing new lands each as beautiful and wondrous as his own~
~Elias realised instantly how eclectic a city such as Cypress was. Upon entering Cypress Castle, he noticed the extraordinary array of races that was welcome here. The queer looks gievn to him, that were so common in the more remote and distant settlements, simply did not exist. To his surprise, he found himself slightly dismayed at the lack of interest. Perhaps it was the circumstance, he considered: these were strange times, and these people were obviously more accustomed to the less-than-normal than he thought~
~Retrieving a dog-eared and tattered parchment from a pouch in his belt, Elias approached one of the local merchants in an attempt to find a suitable route to the keep's main gate. He unfolded the parchment, a spray of dirt and dust puffing outwards from the crumpled note, and glanced at it once more. He didn't want to dwell on the situation leading to his reception of the note, but he wanted ot make sure that he was at the right place at the right time. Having been in the company of Wizard's for a protracted period of time, he had grown accustomed to being over-cautious. He neared what he assumed to be a local tradesman, a rough, shaven-headed fellow wearing cheap clothes and sat behind a stall selling vegetables of surprisingly good quality, but as the vendor saw him approach, he saw that the merchant knew exactly what he was~
"The keep gate, Birdman?", he inquired, to which Elias merely nodded. He was obviously not the first to have come this way. "Follow that road up there. You won't miss it - there's others like you."
~Elias felt no malice in that statement, just boredom. The route seemed obvious, and he would have flown had his wings not been so tired from what was otherwise a lengthy journey. Pressing through the traffic at certain points drained more of his strength, but soon he neared his destination. He knew know what the merchant had meant. Amongst those who had already arrived at the gate, those who had travelled from places he had known to be a great distance away, he felt suddenly a great deal closer to home~

Posted by: Dark Maiden Mon Jul 11, 2005 11:38 pm
"It seems that we are all here for the same reason, but our motives are undoubtedly different." Kethra's head snaps towards Damas and her eyes widen with shock. "How can you say such a thing?! I thought elves were supposed to be kind, nature loving folk!"
From the way she speaks, it is clear Kethra is quite naive to the true nature of many beings. However, the one question that must remain on all of there minds is why.
((Ahh, things are going down hill already?))

Posted by: Damas Heretic Mon Jul 11, 2005 11:45 pm
"Why are you so surprised? Not all people care for one another milady. We may not see eye to eye on certain things and I apologise if my words offended you, but I assure you that I have my own reasons for my bleak outlook on life."

Posted by: Rusty Mon Jul 11, 2005 11:51 pm
*Faralon felt a bit stung by her lack of response to his question. That hurt his pride as a bard that she did not say that she heard the music, even though he was certain she did. Clenching his fist, he tries his best to ignore it.* : You look to be of elven descent yourself.
*Faralon noticeably eyes her pointy ears.*
: Not ALL elves are rude. In fact, most are quite the opposite.
*Faralon glances at Damas briefly, before returning his gaze to Kethra.*
: He must just be having a terrible day...Many of us grow down or upset over small things. But, you see, that's where I come in. People like me help set the moods for all kinds of occasions.

Posted by: Dark Maiden Tue Jul 12, 2005 12:06 am
"We will leave it at that then, stranger." Kethra turns her attention back to Faralon and grins sheepishly. "Forgive me for not answering your question, but this is far more attention than I am used to. I did hear your music and I liked it very much. Where did you learn to play like that?"

Posted by: Rusty Tue Jul 12, 2005 12:16 am
*Faralon smirks. Obviously she hasn't heard others play. That was amazing!* : Ah that's understandable...I've been playing the lute longer than I can remember...Not that my memory fails me. I've just been playing it for a very, very long time. I have more interest in playing than whatever this note is about.
*Takes the note out of his pocket, showing it to her.*
: Music is my life...My soul; I cannot be satisfied without it. However, I do want to experience a bit of this 'adventuring' thing I've heard so much about, and this seemed like the perfect opportunity. I should say so far I haven't been disappointed with my decision...
*Faralon looks back towards his brother briefly, before returning to face Kethra once more.*
: You did check to see where the castle was before you browsed the village, correct? Or are you not here to visit the town and only here on duty?
*Faralon thinks to himself. If she hasn't been to the castle already...Then I would have a reason to show her around. Ah, but...I don't think Ashathel would permit that. Well forget him. I'll not be late for the meeting, but that doesn't mean I'm going right to the castle now...*

Posted by: Dark Maiden Tue Jul 12, 2005 12:27 am
Kethra's face turns bright red again and her eyes widen. "N-no... Actually...I...I haven't been here for very long... Perhaps...I am simply...afraid of getting lost..." ((Poor Kethra ))

Posted by: Rusty Tue Jul 12, 2005 12:34 am
*Faralon smiles. I thought she looked too uncomfortable with the town.* : Ah, pity...Well, I suppose I could show you to it, if you want? *Perhaps that was too inviting...* It is an impressive castle. I didn't go in yet, myself, but I did pass by there earlier. I wouldn't want you to get lost. If you'll let me, I'll see to it that you do not.

Posted by: Dark Maiden Tue Jul 12, 2005 12:51 am
"I...um... Well...I don't want to be late...for that meeting..." Kethra looks away from Faralon and lightly kicks the dirt on the street. Her embarrassment is quite obvious, even though she is trying NOT to show it. ((Umm, help? ))

Posted by: Aldur Tue Jul 12, 2005 1:13 am
"Come now my good friend, I believe you happen to be crowding the poor lady. A worldly fellow like yourself should be less...forceful." Amelios smiled politely at the flustered Half-elf. She really did seem out of her element on this one. He nodded to her, shooting an amused sidewards glance at the bard.
"And I'm sure he could lead us all there...unless he was planning something else?"

Posted by: Rusty Tue Jul 12, 2005 2:12 am
*Faralon's smirk doesn't shift, though inside he feels a bit angered. The fool...That cleric just ruined everything. It wasn't like I was going to do anything illegal...Bah...There will be other, better opportunities. Though I think I'll be wanting to steer clear of the cleric...Chances are he and I won't see eye-to-eye on most things.*
: Ah, sorry. I didn't know a simple tour was to be seen as 'forceful', as you call it. But, perhaps you are a very reserved person and have a few social problems that need to be worked upon. If we're making it a group, then I suppose my brother Ashathel should join us, as well. He is, after all, here for the very same reason.

Posted by: Cyrus Tue Jul 12, 2005 3:23 am
Castor takes the gnome's hand, his huge hairy mitt easily enveloping Zook's own as he gently shook his hand. Didn't want to rip his arm off if he didn't deserve it. "Castor," the minotaur says, returning the gnome's courtesy. "Thought gnomes didn't exactly like giants, though." While his vocal attention was focused on the rather talkative gnome, his eyes were elsewhere, scanning the area for any persons who particularly stood out...
[Spot Check: 17+1=18]

Posted by: Dark Maiden Tue Jul 12, 2005 3:42 am
Kethra looks upon the kyantol priest for a moment, rather confused as to why he has chosen to defend her. After a few moments, however, she decides that is not important and smiles shyly. "I...really do appreciate your concern...but there really is no need to worry. It is highly likely...that you have mistaken his intentions my kind friend... Forgive me for...being so naive, but I have...only recently left my home...and I lack real world experience. I really would like to see the castle, but maybe it is a good idea if we go as a group. After all, we are all going to the same place."
There is a short pause in her speech, and she turns around to face Damas. Though she is still a little irked by what he said, she remains polite.
"You may join us, if you want to."

Posted by: Critical Mass Tue Jul 12, 2005 10:01 am
*Rhizor continues hanging from the gate eavesdropping on the conversation below. He resists the urge to shake his head at the stuttering half-elf, not believing anyone could actually be that oblivious to the world around them. But then, you could hardly expect more from such children. A quick scan of the crowd around them catches the note being flashed between the gnome and the minotaur and the similiar notes held by the elves and kyantol.. far too many elves for his own tastes, but he could see himself at least getting along with the two off to the side. Without a sound he releases himself from his perch, flipping in the air and beating his wings against the air to break his fall. He lands a few feet from the musician and his group and travels the short distance to the outer wall, walking with a sort of pitiful shambling half-step on his misshapen feet and the claws of his wings. Walking.. his scowl only deepens at the pathetic amount of time it takes to get there. He lets out a sigh when he finally makes it and rests his back against the warm stone, his arms folded accross his chest, his wings resting loosely at his sides, his eyes closed. This crowd was playing hell with his blindsense and he could feel another headache coming on.. with a quick grab into one of his pouches he pulls out the message and whipes it accross the sweat on his brow. Whoever the hell put this all together better have had a damn good reason..*
((Take ten on listen and spot.. 10 + 17 = 27. I'm just gonna assume that passes.))

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Tue Jul 12, 2005 11:38 am
Zook's smile broadened until it cracked open, and the gnome belted out an abrasive cackle. "Well met, Castor! But tell me, what does anyone, gnome or otherwise, have to fear from an ally? I've got far, far too many important things on my mind to waste energy distrusting everyone significantly larger than I."

Posted by: Damas Heretic Tue Jul 12, 2005 4:21 pm
He breaks out of his little daze and glances to Kethra seemingly not to keen on the idea of traveling with people he had never met before but then again it would be easier to find his way around with them so he shrugs slightly letting his arms fall to his sides.
"Sure why not.It couldn't hurt to travel along with you people might give me an opertunity to learn more about you I am going to be going on this little adventure with the rest of you after all."

Posted by: Dark Maiden Tue Jul 12, 2005 6:33 pm
"I hope to learn from this experience as well. Shall we be off?" Kethra tries to put on the biggest and most innocent smile she can.

Posted by: Big Poppa Tue Jul 12, 2005 11:18 pm
Aurik had been up since before dawn like he was on most days. He'd take time to prepare his spells and pray as it was expected of him. He was quite eager to find out what his summon to the Castle was about, but the Father of the church wished for Aurik to wait a while before leaving, as he still had tasks to complete before setting out. Aurik really wanted to see what was going on outside, as the music and cheers sounded quite inviting. Never-the-less, he fufilled his duties before leaving the Church. He left with about a half hour to spare.
((Spells prepared:
Level 2: (2) Augury
Level 1: (1) Comprehend Languages, (1) Command)
Level 0: (1) Read Magic, (1) Purify food and drink, (1) Detect Magic, (1) Detect poison
Domain: (1) Heat Metal, (1) Endure Elements) ))

Posted by: Aldur Tue Jul 12, 2005 11:37 pm
Amelios looked towards the pure elf somewhat confusedly, he frowned for a moment decided to speak his mind. "You know we're going on an adventure? I wasn't told that much...interesting. I believe that we should wait for our friendly Bard's brother to catch up first. Is that alright with everyone? I must say, Something other than errands would be fun."
He grinned widely to the little group around him, starting to think he'd most likely do better to stay away from the majority of them. It would be drama incarnate.

Posted by: Nightmare Wed Jul 13, 2005 5:00 am
"Wow" Laika had gasped as he aproached the awe inspiring location known as Cypress. Laika didn't see this sort of thing often. It had taken him far longer than he had expected to reach it, but getting lost tends to make you fall behind schedule. He knew he should've taken a left just after Gradmore.
As he aproached the gates he could see the townsfolk and visitors going about their business, all except for one. A Cat-folk, who didn't seem to busy, and since he had gotten lost earlier, he wanted to make sure he had the right place.
"Excuse me," He said to the stranger, "but would you be able to aid me?"

Posted by: Knight_019 Wed Jul 13, 2005 5:17 am
*Merkass stood leaning against a wall with one shoulder near the gate as he watched the interaction between the gnome and the minotaur. He was curious about their intentions, personalities, and anything they may have to say, though he would not approach them. He could satiate his curiosity by standing at a distance, and since he had nothing to say at the current moment he would not waste their time. Running his long-nailed hand through the mane atop his head like a comb, he pondered how long he would wait. Standing around is unproductive, and Merkass felt he could be doing something at the current time. Not long after he began to question the time frame of events did a figure come to him with a question. He also thought he could hear the bustle of people stirring in the city, moreso than usual, and concentrated in a specific area. Without hesitating, Merkass turns away from his prior interest and to face the wolfman standing in front of him. Not what he expected by far. He hadn't seen such a person in quite some time, and even then only rarely when they had business with his tribe. His tribe had been on good terms with the wolfmen, even though their ways were brutish while his people's were canny.*
((Listen
1d20 + 9 = 11 + 9 = 20))
: What do you need?
*Merkass' response was quick and decided in nature. No more was said, and nothing else implied. If he could help, he would. If not, he would not.*

Posted by: Nightmare Wed Jul 13, 2005 5:26 am
"Well, due to a bit of misfortune I had, I was just looking for someone who would verify for me that I am infact at the city of Cypress." Laika felt rather idiotic for asking this, but he decided it was better safe than sorry, even though he was pretty sure he was infact at the right place.

Posted by: Knight_019 Wed Jul 13, 2005 5:31 am
*Understanding what it is like to be out of one's element, Merkass understood the wolfman's plight. Even though he had been in Cypress for the better part of a year, if not two, he still felt uncomfortable in the setting of a large city.* : You are indeed in Cypress.

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Wed Jul 13, 2005 7:04 am
The time passes swiftly as those answering the messages chat. Soon the hour is over, and those at the gate find a small contigent of guards exiting the gates and approaching the group. "I have orders to escort you into the castle. Please hurry," the guard says.
As he says this, brightly colored explosions burst in the air around the city square. They erupt into beautiful, almost mesmerizing patterns of color and light.
((Kno: Arcana or Technology DC:15. They're fireworks, expertly made ones at that, and probably lightly enchanted.))
"The... distraction we arranged with the merchant will not last long. You must hurry inside the castle," the guard says as he points to the milling townspeople, every single one staring at the sky and clapping.

Posted by: Century Wed Jul 13, 2005 9:58 am
(( Knowledge: 18 + 3 = 21 )) ~Elias looked up in mild surprise at the release of the fireworks, but they were nothing new to him. He had seen their like before, a display put on by a travelling circus, and although he enjoyed the wonderful array of colours and patterns, he couldn't concentrate on them. He felt his heart beat rapidly as the hour had finally come. With a brief nod at the idea of teh dsitraction, he made his way rapidly into the castle~

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Wed Jul 13, 2005 11:09 am
((Knowledge Check: 7 + 10 = 17)). Zook smiled at the pyrotechnics display. Fireworks had always been great fun to Zook in his youth. His amazement at their manufactured magic had led him to try his hand many a time at their construction. These were of the utmost quality, and although they were genuine, the gnome saw color gradients and patterns that would hae been impossible to generate with chemical means (at least without drenching the air with the rank scent of sulfur). They were always nice to look at, but Zook had long since taken a fancy to more.... martial endeavors.
And so it begins..., Zook thinks excitedly as he enters the Keep.

Posted by: Cyrus Wed Jul 13, 2005 1:01 pm
After getting over the initial shock of the blasts and light that filled the air, Castor watched the colours play across the sky. He had never seen such things before, which wasn't unexpected; His only contact with people most times was with clients, and he was never one to stay for the party. What humans would create, just to entertain themselves...he shook off his amazement. It was only a distraction. This, he found, was a more disturbing thought than he first realized: what type of job was so important, it required such a flashy, if not expensive, distraction? Then again, what did it matter, he thought as he was led into the keep. As long as I'm getting paid...

Posted by: Aldur Wed Jul 13, 2005 1:47 pm
Amelios looked up at the fireworks and grinned, he hadn't seen these before, but then he was out and about, traveling from city to city, being a runner for the various temples. He followed the guard into the keep eagerly, wanting to know what this was all about. He looked at his fellows' wondering how they felt.

Posted by: Wandering Dezorian Wed Jul 13, 2005 3:53 pm
The shock the merchant felt at the sudden display of magic on the streets quickly melted into suspicion as the soldier pointed out the distraction. "I might be walking into a trap. There are few enough humans here, and more than enough outlanders. Could the humans be plotting war?" the soldier thought.
"If so, it's my duty as a soldier of Bedoe to find out what I can, then to make my way back and warn my home. Into the lion's den once more, eh?" An odd expression that only another birdman could interpret as a fatalistic grimace passed over his face, and his hand tightened imperceptably on his walking staff, but the birdman continued to walk with the others, still leading his cart.

Posted by: Kaihaku Wed Jul 13, 2005 4:18 pm
The traveler frowns at this but follows the soldiers into the keep. His eyes dart from soldier to soldier examining them quietly. Behind him, his mule followed with a sullen expression on its face. [Detect Evil]

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Wed Jul 13, 2005 5:24 pm
The guards escort the party through the gates and into the castle proper, leading them through a maze of halls and rooms to a small chamber with a central table and many, many maps. ((Knowledge: Tactics or Cartography. DC:10 reveals: It's a war room.))
As soon as everyone is present in the room, the guard closes the door, leaving you inside. An amused chuckle issues from the thin air as a woman with long blond hair dressed in red and white robes appears, illusion melting away from her like paint dissolved by solvent.
:
"Greetings. Sorry for all the trouble, but getting you here with a minimum of notice was necessary... Even if some of you didn't exactly make it easy..." the mage shakes her head at Faralon. Then she smiles and bows, slightly. "Ah, where are my manners? Allow me to introduce myself. I am the Archwizardess Yeesha, advisor to Prince Nick. Since you're all here, I assume you received my message?"

Posted by: Dark Maiden Wed Jul 13, 2005 5:52 pm
"I-I do believe so, Lady Yeesha." Kethra bows her head slightly while saying this, and falls utterly silent afterwords.

Posted by: Kaihaku Wed Jul 13, 2005 6:00 pm
Allowing a soldier to take his mule from him, the traveler had followed the others. He listens quietly to the words of the Archwizardess, then bows slightly in a respectful manner, "Greetings, Archwizardess. I am Cedric, Knight of Mitula. I have indeed received your summons and I am gladdened to see that such a respected figure stands behind them." He looks at her intently, "I had begun to wonder at the legitimacy of the summons after the so called distraction. If the need for secrecy is so great why did you not summon us one by one during the course of the day or meet us in another less visible location? I dare say that the colorful display would only serve to attract the attention of anyone on the watch for something suspicious." Cedric pulls the parchment from the pouch at his belt, "The letter I received stated that this matter was of great importance to the good of the people. I understand that it is necessary at times to keep things secret in order to preserve order but what is this matter that it required such an urgent and brilliant distraction?"
[Detect Evil]
((Diplomacy Check: 17 + 10 = 27
Cedric manages to remain completely respectful while questioning the wisdom of the advisor's course of actions.
High charisma has its advantages.))

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Wed Jul 13, 2005 6:33 pm
Yeesha smiles. : "Normally, yes. However, I had it arranged with a merchant ally of mine to advertise a small show of some of his... more exotic wares at this time. He's made it known for a while, so it shouldn't appear much more than a coincedence to anyone watching. As for the why everyone here, why now part..."
Yeesha begins wandering around the room, searching through the maps and picking up specific ones.
: "I do know of a few secret ways into and out of the castle, but I can't show them to you until I know you're going to accept my offer. And it had to be in the castle because this is the most secure place I can think of for a clandestine meeting. I can trust every last one of the guards posted here. Now then..." Yeesha spreads a large map over the central table. It's a map of Cypress, incredibly detailed, obviously a masterwork. "The reason all this was neccessary is because we cannot find the Prince. Not with our soldier patrols, not with my magic, not with anything. We are at a loss. The people suspect as much, but to confirm their fears might start a riot in these troubled times. It's bad enough that the clerics report their spells seem to be growing weaker, add this to the mix and we've got trouble! So to lay it out for you..."
: "I am forming my own expedition to find out what happened to the Prince. This is not an official palace inquiry, this is not a royally sanctioned operation. This is one friend trying to find another. To those of you with an altruistic bent I offer the chance to help save someone who most certainly deserves it. To those of you who desire more... earthly things I offer payment and glory. To those of you who desire adventure... what could be more of an opportunity for such than this?"

Posted by: Kaihaku Wed Jul 13, 2005 6:43 pm
Cedric rubs his beard thoughtfully, seeming to reflect on the words of the advisor. "Finding the missing prince would bring comfort and assurance to the people in this troubled time. I will gladly take part in this quest until I am called by Mitula for other purposes."

Posted by: Dark Maiden Wed Jul 13, 2005 6:57 pm
Kethra smiles and nods in response to Cedric's words. "I do agree that finding the prince will ease the people and bring them comfort. Even though I do not serve the goddess, I would be glad to help Lady Yeesha."

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Wed Jul 13, 2005 6:59 pm
Zook nods rapidly, indicating his assent. "I am at your service, of course." He stopped himself from continuing aloud, fearing that to give voice to such fears would preclude his involvement. I assumed, as we were assembled here and ushered in under cover of fire, that this was a matter of import. But what milady speaks of, the missing prince, is a circumstance most dire. News of the prince setting out with the fabled Shining Force reached even our most remote warrens. What power is this that can rebuke not only the Shining Force but any attempts to locate them? And what can we few hope to accomplish against such a power?
Zook struggled to conceal his unease, the vague outcry of the sheltered lab rat taking his first step into the wide, dangerous world.

Posted by: Rusty Wed Jul 13, 2005 7:54 pm
*Faralon watches the fireworks in the sky. It reminded him of the annual festivities in Brodaleaf, celebrating the town's anniversary.* === *Once at the castle, Faralon listens to Yeesha. When he gets the chance to speak, he does so.* : Sorry, I didn't realize that there was much secrecy involved in all of this.
*Faralon smirks. He really didn't know, but then he didn't care much, either. Faralon then listens as Yeesha explains the situation with the missing Prince.*
: Well, this seems like a worthy adventure for me to involve myself in. Hopefully we can return the Prince safe and sound. I'll do what I can - I can promise no more.
*Faralon falls in deep thought about the situation. While he's not a resident of Cypress itself, this sounds like a fairly grave situation to him nonetheless. What could have caused the Prince of Cypress to disappear? Is whatever it is really powerful enough to prevent magic from locating the Prince's location? Well, he IS a Prince...Surely he has a few enemies. Still...He's gone just like that. I wonder what could have happened?*

Posted by: Wandering Dezorian Wed Jul 13, 2005 8:08 pm
Knowledge Geography roll - 18+3 = 21 The merchant watches the faces of his companions from beside his cart, near the doorway to what must be a warroom. They each seemed willing to assist, but none were finding out the information they needed. Walking up to the table for the first time, Brand spent a moment studying the maps. Nodding to the map, he turned to the wizardess. "Where were they last seen, headed in what direction towards what goal? Where have you sent scouts, what have they found, and when did you dispatch them. And do we know the logistical situation of the Prince's party when they last reported? Did they have ample food, water, arrows for their quivers and feed for their horses? Were there signs of disease or dissention among them?" Pausing in his sudden flurry of questions, the birdman looked up at the sorceress, adding only, "Before we join you, we must make sure we know the entire situation."
Brand is also looking at the maps. Once she indicates a general vincinity the prince was last heard from, he's going to scan the area for unusual geographic features or nearby known enemies of the human lands.

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Wed Jul 13, 2005 8:38 pm
: "Ah... Down to business, then. The Prince was last seen in this area here..." Yeesha taps an area of the map near a large forest. "This area used to be Iom controlled, but after the last war, Iom fell and was absorbed into Cypress. We scoured the area with soldiers, but didn't find much. The last time we checked, the Prince and his warband was fully supplied and in high spirits. Most of them fought in the last Shining War with the prince, so I doubt it had anything to do with mutiny... But we're going to take a different tactic than the simple searches performed by the military..." Yeesha says with a slight grin as she rolls out another map, over the old one. This one is of a different land, it's not Rune, not Cypress, not even the recently discovered Parmecia... Few of you, if any, know what this map is of.
: "Care to guess what this is a map of?" Yeesha asks.

Posted by: Wandering Dezorian Wed Jul 13, 2005 8:45 pm
The merchant's brows furrow. "Hapon, though I would not stake my life on it." 'I can't believe I even remember the name from that old map,' the birdman thinks, 'though I can't for the life of me place where it is relative to the world. Still, this is not the time to display ignorance.'

Posted by: Rusty Wed Jul 13, 2005 9:44 pm
((Bardic check...11+4 = 15.)) *Hapon...Ah yes! Faralon thinks to himself upon hearing the merchant speak the name. He read much about it in his home village, as a relative to the first Shining Force had given books to the Brodaleaf library which contained a fair amount of information about lands and heroes.*
: That sounds familiar. I think he's correct in his assumption. Hapon...Yeah, I believe I recall hearing that many ninjas and samurais are born from that land. In fact, the samurai Musashi was from Hapon! He was also part of the first Shining Force, but I'm sure many of you knew at least that much.
*Faralon pauses a moment to think more on Hapon.*
((Bardic check...12+4 = 16.))
: Now that I think about it, I'm also fairly certain that there is a village in Enrich where a number of people from Hapon moved to.

Posted by: Knight_019 Wed Jul 13, 2005 10:04 pm
*Passing through the walls leading to the castle, Merkass is somewhat awestruck by the fireworks. Though he may have seen something similar before, they still seemed foreign to him and he had little to no recollection of them before. The wonders of Cypress were many to him. Keeping a quick and steady pace which often found him ahead of the others he made it to the castle quickly with the escorting guard. Upon entering the chamber Merkass hangs more toward the back examining the room, its contents, and the people. He happens to notice a shadowy figure in a corner, but says nothing at the time. When the map is presented, he takes a closer look at it and something triggers with him, and it is confirmed by the others' statements*
: Yes, that seems vaguely familiar to me as Hapon.

Posted by: Kyosokun Wed Jul 13, 2005 10:05 pm
Ryhir briefly watched the Explosions in the sky, amazed by their color. Once inside, he turned his mind more to business, or as much to business as he ever put it. All of the dangled promises were attractive. Riches and Glory were a wonderful thing to enjoy, doing good was something he ~tried to do at least the majority of the time, and what was life without a little adventure. He wouldn't be the Scout he was if not for a good sense of exploration and adventure. Ryhir scratched at his short spikey blond hair for a moment before piping in a with a grin. "More tempation you might not be able to offer." With that, he turned to the maps, but was surprized not to recognize anything portrayed on the map. The name Hapon sparked memories of legend, but nothing he could wrap his throughts around. Well, this certainly looks to be of more intrest every second....

Posted by: Damas Heretic Wed Jul 13, 2005 11:31 pm
Damas is leaned against a wall, listening in on the whole conversation about their mission. He is a good three feet away from everyone else, with his arms crossed over his chest, and the hood of his cloak pulled up over his face.

Posted by: Aldur Wed Jul 13, 2005 11:49 pm
"I am sorely troubled to find something in these times that would make the magic of the clerics begin to dwindle. And I must confess, it causes me deep distress. And something that could make Prince Nick disappear would have to be dire indeed. I've only been throughout Cypress and Rune, so I'm not much help on these matters."
He smiled sheepishly to those assembled, kept the frown from his face, he wondered what on earth could be so powerful that Mitula's power could be weakened. It was a mystery to the eager cleric, and he wished to find out, yet a small part of him wondered if he had a chance, were the Prince of Cypress did not.
Out of the corner of his eye he noted the obvious rude, and somewhat antisocial behaviour of the sorcerer and looked toward Damas, a flicker of annoyance on his face, yet he remained patient.
"Come now friend, you would do well to look at this map with us, since you seeming to be joining. Also, it's somewhat rude to the Lady Yeesha to not join with the rest of us, seeing as we'll be together for a while. Being part of a team requires input, and I'm sure we can all hear much better over here. Come."
The kyantol cleric gestures to a spot near him, so the antisocial sorcerer can join in, and maybe supply a question or two.

Posted by: Dark Maiden Thu Jul 14, 2005 12:00 am
Kethra catches sight of Damas out of the corner of her eye and slinks over quietly and discreetly. "Why are you standing over here?" - "I'm standing here because I don't trust anyone except you. Of course, it is rather easy to trust someone as naïve as you are. I am all for going on this little quest, but I fail to see the need for such commotion over some fool who decided to disappear."
-
"This fool is the prince of cypress. I would appreciate if you speak of him and of others with more respect."
-
"Well my apologies, but I don't really care if he's the prince. Hell, he could be a god for all I care. As far as I can tell he's probably just some snob who thinks he's above everyone else because he has endless mountains of treasure as well as a bunch of moron's in armor at his command. So you'll forgive me if I don't share your sentiments."
-
Kethra turns her back to him and for a moment it seems that she is going to leave. That is until she elbows him in the gut for his remarks.
"I will forgive you when you show a little more respect for your fellow man."
The half elf scoffs and walks off back towards the rest of the group.
-
"Ugh."
He hides the cry of pain by clenching his teeth he then moves his left hand over his stomach and falls to his knee's.
((We did this before you posted Aldur, so yeah... Amelios was the only one who saw unless anyone else was paying attention. Of course Damas is being a wuss because he only took 3 subdual from the shot. Before anyone asks why, it was Eric's idea for Damas to be rude, and Kethra responded the way I knew she would respond to such comments. when I said brash, I was not kidding))

Posted by: Knight_019 Thu Jul 14, 2005 12:04 am
((PS: That's what spot checks are for 1d20 + 7 = 16+7 = 23 I think Merkass sees him Listen: 1d20 + 9 = 15 + 9 = 24 And hears the scuffling
Sense Motive: 1d20 + 6 = 17 + 6 = 23
And gets a good idea for what's going on))
*Merkass hears the sounds of a scuffle in the corner of the room and turns to see a half-elf woman and a hooded character engaging one another, though the hooded one appears to be in pain. Seeing the woman withdraw spitefully, he gets the feeling something happened. Walking toward the Elf, he gives her an angry stare and speaks a short phrase quietly*
: That was unnecessary. I'll be watching you.
*Going over to the Elf, Merkass helps him up to his feet*
: Come, there is much going on and your lack of involvement will not be of any aid.
*Returning, whether the Elf follows or not, Merkass takes his place back at the table, apologizing quickly, yet sincerely to Yeesha and stating it was necessary to help the person.*

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Thu Jul 14, 2005 12:11 am
((Listen check: 11 + 5 = 16)) Irritated at the childish bickery, Zook tosses the pair an angry glare. Hmph. So much for the renowned austerity and maturity of elven blood... the gnome sneers to himself.

Posted by: DragonmasterDon1 Thu Jul 14, 2005 12:19 am
Isyndel kept her arms tightly wrapped about her spellbook and merely stood quietly, taking in all that surrounded her. The matters were disconcerting at the least. There was nothing to do but wait and listen, truth be told; all the other matters didn't really seem to faze her. She furrowed her brow, seemingly unaware of anyone else but paying attention nonetheless, but just the same she wondered about all these other people.
Wondered all sorts of things, in fact.

Posted by: Kyosokun Thu Jul 14, 2005 12:22 am
Ryhir, absorbed as he is with looking over the maps and listening to Lady Yeesha, nevermind the thoughts of glory, wealth, and adventure, is completely oblivious to the commotion beginning behind him... "So where is this? I've been a fair ways about, and I've seen many maps, but this one is completely unfamily to me..."
((Listen Roll = 1D20(2) + 7 = 9 total >_>))

Posted by: Dark Maiden Thu Jul 14, 2005 12:30 am
Kethra's expression seems to soften when Merkass gives her that angry glare. His words seem to hit home as well and she moves away, resting her hand on her head. "He acts like I am the only one to blame. Well, he did not hear anything we were saying, and hitting that sorcerer was perhaps not needed... Here I am the first time out of my monastery, and I already have enemies."
She then moves her hand over her eyes to shield them, as she is no forcing herself not to cry.
((Damn me for having such a complicated character))

Posted by: Kaihaku Thu Jul 14, 2005 12:38 am
[Listen 14 + 2 = 16] [Sense Motive 1 + 7 = 8] Cedric glances behind him at the sounds of shifting bodies and he arches an eyebrow at so many of his companions converging on the obviously shy and socially anxious sorcorer. His eyes narrow at the sight of them bullying the poor sheltered elf but decides aganist interupting the meeting further. Instead, he turns back to the archwizardess, "Why Hapon? It seems unusual to begin a search there instead of following the route of the prince... or do you have news of him?"
-----
Who puts alternate dimensions inside trees? Idiots! Unless their fairies and I'm pretty sure fairies didn't do this stupid thing.
~Little Brother while playing Majora's Mask

Posted by: Damas Heretic Thu Jul 14, 2005 12:41 am
After the pain has passed Damas walks over to where the rest of the group is, glancing over to Merkass muttering quietly to him. "There was no need to be so harsh to the half elf. I had that coming the moment I opened my mouth." Listen check: 20 + 4 = 24.

Posted by: Knight_019 Thu Jul 14, 2005 12:49 am
: That I will discover in due time through my own observation. *Merkass responded quickly. In time he would see how everyone reacted to one another and to various situations, and those actions would allow him to guage everyone's temperament. Until then, he would watch and listen. Though the robed person may have certainly said something displeasing to the half-elf woman, Merkass felt that no physical injury should ever be incurred from a simple statement, no matter how harsh or cruel. Balance exists in many forms.*

Posted by: Critical Mass Thu Jul 14, 2005 1:24 am
Rhizor had so far been trying to listen to Yeesha, determined to ignore the childish bickering behind him, but this was getting ridiculous. Eyclone turns angrily, his eyes boring into each of them in turn. "Shut up," he snaps, not bothering to whisper. "Shut up now. If you haven't noticed, there are important things going on. Important things that you were requested by Mistress Yeesha herself to be a part of. If this is how you intend to act then I suggest you leave this instant, because I will not trust my life to a handful of children who cannot sit through a single briefing without attacking each other. Do I make myself damned-well clear?" Without waiting for an answer the batling turns back to Yeesha and bows low to the ground. "I appologize deeply for this interuption. Please, Mistress, tell us anything we can do to help find the Prince. This situation is most disturbing."

Posted by: Twitch Thu Jul 14, 2005 1:35 am
*Gabriel leaned on the table and listened to everything Yeesha had said, nodding his head rhythmically ((Listen check: 20 + 5 = 25)) Hearing muted talking, and sounds of a scuffle behind him, Gabe glanced over his shoulder and simply shook his head*
: "...kids." he uttered under his breath.
*Focusing on the Yeesha once again, he asked*
: "Let me get this straight... you want us to go after the prince, but head off in a completely different direction than he traveled? Why the hell would you have us pursue this path? Not that it matters much to me, I highly doubt you brought me in here for insight."

Posted by: Dark Maiden Thu Jul 14, 2005 1:36 am
((Being rude is just as childish. Besides, they were whispering, not being loud about it... And most of us said sorry, accept for Kethra who I do think might get scared off))

Posted by: Knight_019 Thu Jul 14, 2005 1:39 am
*Merkass had attempted to listen to Yeesha and merely gone to help a person up as well as apologized for any infraction this may have caused. As such he felt no guilt for doing the right thing, even if his actions were not appreciated. He had, after all, attempted to break up the bickering without being loud and boistrous in the first place*

Posted by: Critical Mass Thu Jul 14, 2005 1:40 am

QUOTE (Dark Maiden @ Thu Jul 14, 2005 1:36 am)
((Being rude is just as childish. Unless you got a godly listen check I doubt you heard what they were saying in the first place. I'll leave that up to TUM before I post again... That might damn well scare Kethra out of the room))

((DC 15 listen check to hear whispering and DC 25 to make out what's being said. I rolled a 32 in front of everyone in the chat. Feel free to ask Kyo, TUM, Kev, Rusty, Kai, Aldur, or Vox for confirmation.))

Posted by: Dark Maiden Thu Jul 14, 2005 1:47 am
((Ok... Well you've just scared the shit out of the little monk. Congrats)) Given her normally shy personality, having someone snap at her is scary. Kethra puts as much distance between her and the rest of the group as possible. I do not belong here... I should have never left the monastery...
This thought in her mind she exits the room, unable to hide her tears as she does so.
((*Proceeds to smash her own head in*))

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Thu Jul 14, 2005 1:48 am
: "THANK you, Rhizor. Thank you also those that were paying attention. Mr. Heretic if you don't feel the need to participate perhaps you shouldn't. You are already being paid for something that some others are glad to do out of the goodness of their hearts. Drop the 'I'm better than you' act. You'll be working with these people assuming you don't drop out now," Yeesha says, irritation coloring her voice. "Now then... Our noble paladin asks an excellent question why Hapon? Heh. A while ago, the prince was required to undergo tests to prove his worth. These tests were administered by the Sorceress Dava at her mansion in Hapon. Dava is an ancient and respected seeress. If anyone can locate the prince through magical means, it is her."

Posted by: Damas Heretic Thu Jul 14, 2005 1:54 am
"..........My apologise lady Yeesha." Damas bows his head slightly to show some respect.

Posted by: Kyosokun Thu Jul 14, 2005 1:55 am
Ryhir frowns as the yound half-elf runs from the room after the outburst. A shame, she was kinda cute. Still, better running here than on the battlefield. With that, Ryhir returns his attention to the map. "Ancient and respected, huh? How Ancient are we talking?", Ryhir responds with a bit of a grin.

Posted by: Dark Maiden Thu Jul 14, 2005 1:56 am
((Ok, problem sorted. If anyone wishes to throw anything at me, please do. I'm not exactly the paramount of common sense today))

Posted by: Nightmare Thu Jul 14, 2005 1:59 am
Laika hadn't said a word since he was talking to the Cat-folk outside the gates. He barely knew what was going on as he was not used to this large city in the least. He couldn't stop starring at all the things passing him by, barely paying attention to what he was supposed to. Until Yeesha began to speak, then he had realised what he was here for. Although hewas still a little overwhelmed by all that was happening he decided it would be best to just soak everything in instead of making other people think he was a fool.

Posted by: Rusty Thu Jul 14, 2005 2:13 am
*Faralon, despite being a disobedient fellow himself, seems particularly bothered by the behavior of the elf and half-elf who left the room. Standing up, he bows to Yeesha.* : I would ask, milady, that I may leave shortly to lighten their spirits and lead them back here. It's what I'm best at, after all, and I believe they may still be of use to us, even if they caused a bit of a disturbance just now.
*Bowing once more, he exits the room, heading to Kethra.*
((Diplomacy...13 + 12 = 25.))
: Obviously you were interested in taking this job for one reason or another. What just happened in there was a small argument. Obviously, a misunderstanding occurred. I think you need to calm down and...realize what brought you here in the first place - whatever that was.
*Faralon takes the lute off his back, nods to her as begins to play a tune, Faralon singing along with it.*
((Perform check...15 + 10 + 2 = 27.))
: Mend your heart, mend your ways; The anger leaves, yet sadness stays. Why do you run, why do you flee; Come back inside, of that I plea.
*Breaking out of the song, he continues playing the tune on his lute.*
: I ask that you don't run away from the duty you've called upon yourself to see through. Give this another chance. Pull yourself together and march back in there! We could very well make history...Make names for ourselves! Would you truly shun such an opportunity over something small?
((Faralon didn't hear the conversation, no - but it's not too hard to put two and two together.))

Posted by: Damas Heretic Thu Jul 14, 2005 2:20 am
((EDIT: Posted this before the edit Rusty. Sorry ))

Posted by: Dark Maiden Thu Jul 14, 2005 2:38 am
Kethra rests her hand on Faralon's shoulder, bowing her head slightly. "I came here because I wanted to help, but I have only made things worse. If I am able, I wish to redeem myself, but first impressions are not easily altered. However, I do thank you for your kindness."
How could I be so foolish? I have been called by Lady Yeesha for a reason... I cannot allow her to believe that her faith is misplaced...
"Shall we go back?"

Posted by: Rusty Thu Jul 14, 2005 2:52 am
*Faralon nods.* : We shouldn't waste a minute longer, I think. There are important matters to be discussed. Though to warn you, I do not doubt that many were a bit bothered by all this. Just try and pass it off as if nothing happened and let's move on.
*Stepping up to the door, Faralon just stands by it, looking at Kethra.*
: After you...

Posted by: Dark Maiden Thu Jul 14, 2005 3:03 am
Kethra steps back into the room oddly taking a place beside where Damas now stands. She says nothing to him for the time being and instead shifts her gaze to Yeesha. She bows to the wizardess again, only deeper this time out of both respect and as sort of an apology. However, she says nothing for the sake of getting to business. After that, she takes a seat and listens intently.
I shall say that I am sorry after this is said and done...
((Well this is my last post, for I am tired... Good night everyone))

Posted by: Cyrus Thu Jul 14, 2005 3:17 am
Castor could care less about the argument that had so interrupted the briefing, or the people who decided to continue said interruption. Big things were afoot, he could tell. Even he had heard of the Shining Force, though it was mostly reduced to whispered rumors in the backs of shady bars. What had suprised him most, more than the news of the force's disappearance, however, was the birdman merchant: he was obviously no ordinary merchant, judging by the questions and his tone. He could be leader material. There would be time to analyse his other companions later. Right now, he had something on his mind. "If all we need to do is ask this Dava to find the prince," Castor began to say, "then why are we needed? I doubt you just wanted errandboys..."

Posted by: Rusty Thu Jul 14, 2005 3:24 am
*Faralon walks in and takes a seat once more, nodding to Yeesha. He glances about at the various people in the room, just being attentive to what everyone has to say.*

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Thu Jul 14, 2005 4:22 am
: "Because my homeland is far, far away and the journey is treacherous. Lady Yeesha, powerful as her magic is, will require protection," a man says as he drops from a hiding place in the ceiling shadows. With few exceptions, no one noticed he was there. "Not to mention if Dava cannot find him, then it will fall to us to do the job."
: "Allow me to introduce Kyoji Kumoriken, our guide for this expedition. Now if there are no more questions, we should begin preperations and depart immediately," Yeesha says, looking around. "Well? Any questions? This is your last chance to back out."

Posted by: Kaihaku Thu Jul 14, 2005 4:24 am
((There is something I must do that is more important than sleep and that is...)) [Detect Evil] Cedric frowns at the sudden apperance of the strangely dressed man

Posted by: Cyrus Thu Jul 14, 2005 4:37 am
"I understand," the minotaur states simply. "No questions."

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Thu Jul 14, 2005 4:39 am
Zook again extracts his watch. Checking it, he notes that it is early evening. He speaks at an uneven tempo; one can tell he is used to talking rapidly, but is making a concerted effort to slow down. "How shall we travel, then?"

Posted by: Arcdragnbreth Thu Jul 14, 2005 1:14 pm
"And assuming our search proves even this Dava cannot find him, what then will be our course of action?" a blonde-haired elf asked, breaking the silence he'd kept for much of the afternoon. ((Quiet, all of you. I would have posted long ago, were it not for orienting freshman.))

Posted by: Aldur Thu Jul 14, 2005 3:28 pm
((Knowledge check 8+2= 10 )) "Forgive the rudeness Lady yeesha but I did hear of rumours that the Lady Dava has...undead at her command. If they prove true, is it entirely safe to ask her advice?" The Kyantol Frowned, he had never liked the undead. His dislike was a zeal, and he felt compelled to deal with all the of the creatures he ever encountered, be it by Mitula's powers...or his own.

Posted by: Dark Maiden Thu Jul 14, 2005 5:46 pm
Kethra gathers all her courage to speak, keeping her voice as even but respectful sounding as she can. "I have no questions, Lady Yeesha."

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Thu Jul 14, 2005 8:50 pm
: "Dava makes use of her own kind of undead... It differs in that she asks permission from the spirits to use their bodies, and it is the former inhabitant that controls the risen one, not her directly. She refers to these as 'Dava Zombies' and so forth. Eh... It's a gray area in which there has been much debate... She only uses them for defense and the Test, though. As for what will happen if she does not know... I suppose we'll have to search ourselves," Yeesha states.
((I'm letting it slide, but 10 was not sufficient to know about the undead on a knowledge check. Check with me next time. I don't recall clearing that.))

Posted by: Rusty Thu Jul 14, 2005 9:28 pm
((If he didn't, then Faralon may have, as I rolled a 17...And have 6 ranks in Knowledge Arcana, plus +1 from INT. ^___^)) *A test...yes...That's right. What about us?* : Are we to be tested?

Posted by: Aldur Thu Jul 14, 2005 9:31 pm
(( Hey, I said it was a rumour...coulda been gobbledegook)) Amelios frowned, yet said no more, keeping his personal thoughts and feelings private. It wasn't his place to be critical...yet. "I have nothing else to ask then."

Posted by: Rusty Thu Jul 14, 2005 9:39 pm
((Then you would have had to have made a bluff check. ))

Posted by: Kaihaku Thu Jul 14, 2005 9:51 pm
Cedric rubs his chin thoughtfully, "Undead? Necromancy? These seem like details that would bear mentioning before we set off. I dislike the cloak and dagger act, dropping from ceilings and such..." The Holy Knight glances meaningfully at the Ninja. "I am glad to aid you but I need to know what's going on or at least a good reason why I should not know."
((I believe the last dipomacy check still counts, although I can roll another if you wish.))

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Thu Jul 14, 2005 10:29 pm
: "Are you Cypress royalty? Heh. The test is only given to those about to be coronated, to make sure they are worthy kings," Yeesha explains to Faralon. "And Dava isn't a necromancer per se. She just doesn't let death get in the way of communication... It's not as if she goes around looting graveyards and such. Most of it is an act designed to test the resolve of the Cypress nobility."
: "If you dislike it to that degree, you are welcome to charge into one of the ambushes we are certain to encounter with a holy warcry instead of a stealthy scouting... But I would not recommend it," the ninja replies to Cedric. "You already know what's going on. The prince is missing. We are attempting to find him and those that travelled with him. The best start that Lady Yeesha could think of is the seeress."
: "The only thing left to mention that I can recall is simply to be on your guard if it comes down to a manual search. Since the area is former Iom territory, some think that the Prince was taken by Iom loyalists."

Posted by: Rusty Thu Jul 14, 2005 11:05 pm
((Bardic knowledge...11 + 3 + 1 = 15)) : I do not mean to sound hopeful of it, but that would make sense. If there are any followers of Iom still about, I do not doubt they would strike against the Prince the first chance they get. He did, of course, give Iom and his forces a crippling blow that earned the Prince quite the reputation.

Posted by: Kyosokun Thu Jul 14, 2005 11:54 pm
"You'll not be getting me to back down." Ryhir scratches his head at the mention of Undead. "Well, if they are as you say...." He looks to the Paladin after the ninja's reply, and grins. "You must admit, it was an admirable trick, and a useful skill. Stealth is not always an unhonorable option, and I can garuntee our enemies will not scoff at the idea of using whatever tactic is effective." With that he turns back to the table. Hearing that they are not to be tested, he can't be but a little disappointed. Sounds like it'd be an interesting measure. Still, one fit for Royalty maybe be a bit beyond me. Then he grins again. Or perhaps not. A shame.

Posted by: Kaihaku Fri Jul 15, 2005 1:43 am
Cedric looks to Ryhir seriously, "Stealth can be useful, I never said otherwise." The Holy Knight then looks back at the Ninja, "However, like many things I feel that stealth should not be abused or used aganist friends. I agree with you that it is better to know the situation than charge in blindly, why else would I request further information? I'm surprised that you, who seems to value knowing the situation would recommend simply marching into the unknown." Cedric then smiles and reaches a hand out towards the Ninja, "But I meant no offense, I did not chide the bard on his performance yet I did so with you. I allowed my surprise at your flashy entrance to unsettle me and for that weakness I apologize, friend."

Posted by: Cyrus Fri Jul 15, 2005 2:30 am
So, religion played a part in this, too. Castor tried not to show his displeasure, but he knew he was failing. Religion was a powerful motivater...he had felt its force firsthand, on the end of a torch. For Volcanon, my ass. He just grimaces and kept against the wall, hoping this meeting would end soon.

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Fri Jul 15, 2005 3:18 am
Kyoji takes Cedric's hand after a moment of hesistation and shakes it. : "I accept your apology." : "If that's the last of the heavy questions, everyone that wishes to accept this job, please come with me. By now the horses and cart should be ready," Yeesha says.

Posted by: Cyrus Fri Jul 15, 2005 3:21 am
Castor follows the Wizardress silently to the cart, unable to shake a sense of foreboding as he accepts this job.

Posted by: Kaihaku Fri Jul 15, 2005 3:25 am
Cedric shakes the hard firmly and releasing it, nods to Yeesha, "Yes, let us be off." As they make their way to the cart, the Holy Knight makes certain to secure his mule and equipment.

Posted by: Rusty Fri Jul 15, 2005 3:33 am
*Faralon nods to Yeesha, following her. I'm not terribly fond of that one. She seems to take pleasure in insulting or belittling me whenever she can. She thinks she's above me? Ha! The fool. Oh well. She's my employer, and I have to put up with it...*

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Fri Jul 15, 2005 3:34 am
Inhaling deeply, Zook turned and follows Yeesha out to the cart. The gears in his mind work furiously, almost in danger of flying from their anchors. The gnome, despite his inventions, never had a clockwork mind. He'd been called eccentric by his friends, mad by those who knew better, and dangerous by anyone Zook ever counted as an enemy. When he'd accepted the call to Cypress, he'd done so under the gamble that his inventor's mind would be more of an asset than a liability.
As he smelled battle on the horizon like spent gunpowder, his faith in that assumption began to waver.

Posted by: Aldur Fri Jul 15, 2005 3:54 am
The Kyantol CLeric nodded, and oftened up a quick prayer to Mitula, asking for her protection on this journey. Amelios followed after the Lady Yeesha, many thoughts spiralling throughout his head.

Posted by: DragonmasterDon1 Fri Jul 15, 2005 5:18 am
Isyndel came along but said nothing. There would naturally be time for more talking later, and the better part of the conversation was understood. She tugged at her pack to adjust it and followed suit with the others, her long legs striding quickly to catch up and keep pace.

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Fri Jul 15, 2005 5:51 am
The group hastily assembles and leaves the castle through a series of secret tunnels that leads to a stable behind the castle at the foot of the cliffs. : "Shall we go?" Yeesha asks with a smile as she takes a seat in the cart. ((Spot DC 15: Yeesha has been walking with a limp, leaning heavily on her staff for the time she's been up and moving.))
The group moves out, heading away from the city of Cypress Castle and towards the port city of Sprayia in the north. The plan is to get a boat and sail to Hapon, where Kyoji and Yeesha will guide the group to the Mansion. However, it's only been two hour's ride before trouble occurs...
As the caravan moves through a forest path, Kyoji suddenly frowns and sprints ahead along the path, running over a hill a few feet away.

Posted by: Kaihaku Fri Jul 15, 2005 6:01 am
[Spot 13 - Dense Paladin doesn't notice the limping] [Spot 20 - Uber Aware Paladin notices the Ninja running off] [Listen 7 - Dense Paladin hears nothing] The Holy Knight of Mitula watches his companions closely over the two hour journey, hoping to learn more of them. However, he looks up as Kyoji darts forward and a frown appears on his face. He draws the hammer that hangs from his back but does not follow the Ninja, instead watching the hill intently.

Posted by: Rusty Fri Jul 15, 2005 6:03 am
((Spot check...6. Bah.)) *Faralon looks, but can't seem to figure out just what Kyoji was pointing at. Closing his eyes, he focuses his ears to 'see' for him.* ((Listen check...natural 20. Wee, I love the dice.)) : Wait, stop...I think...I think I can hear a battle raging up ahead.

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Fri Jul 15, 2005 6:10 am
((Spot: 11 + 5 =16)) Zook's brow knitted in concern for the evidently ailing Yeesha, but Kyoji's sudden flight indicated more pressing matters... ((Listen: 13 + 5 = 18)) Up ahead, Zook hears the faint sounds of a battle. Working with practiced precision, Zook extracts from his satchel a long steel cylinder, a horn and a bag of what appear to be pellets. First the powder goes in, followed by the ball. A tight pack down and it is done. Readying the object, he moves forward.

Posted by: Cyrus Fri Jul 15, 2005 6:10 am
As the caravan rolled on, the mercenary couldn't help but worry. Judging by the limp Yeesha had, she was either with the Prince when he was attacked...or had been struck anyway, probably the same people who took Nick. What was she not telling us? Before he could theorize, the ninja decided a walk in the middle of the forest would be nice, and decides himself to follow after. At the Bard's warning, he unslings his axe and asks, "Then what are we waiting," as he charges off after the ninja.

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Fri Jul 15, 2005 6:31 am
http://www.shinola.radh.com/guest/Vox/SFCW2%20Battle%201.mp3 About a minute after the group moves forward, they reach the site of a large battle. A small caravan of merchant carts has been ambushed by zombies shambling out of the woods. The terrified merchants scream from the inside of their carts and wagons while guards on the vehicle roofs poke at the zombies with spears in attempts to fend them off....
A low moan arises near you as more zombies rise from their hiding places in the tall grass, involving you in the combat as well as they move to attack!
Map notes: All the zombies are enemies. Everyone else, an ally. Bear with me on this one, I don't have a grid yet. Also, I used the avatars for icons if I had no alternative. Vox made WD a modded Luke, Rusty made Aldur a modded Khris, and Scare has his near unidentifiable ST icon. I used Max for Arc's guy until I can get an edited version.

Posted by: Arcdragnbreth Fri Jul 15, 2005 6:32 am
(( Spot: 10 Listen: 19 )) Though his attention was diverted, there was no way the elf's ears could miss the clashing of steel on steel and the dull rending of flesh. Slipping the masterfully forged rapier out of the well-designed housing in which it rested, Ashathel drew the weapon and ducked low.
"Stay low and out of sight," he said. "The combatants may spot us at any time, and I'd hate to be caught flat-footed when that happens."
((EDIT: AIM's dice can kiss my sweet, sweet black ass... ))
((Spot 14))
Heading north, towards the zombie bound for the other wagons, the blone forest-dweller cautiously observed his enemy, before launching a thrust. However, his foot slipped on a smooth stone, and he was forced to send the blade down in order to keep his balance. Still, he took the time to report his findings.
"Be careful! These fiends do not show themselves to be as other undead! Fair Lady Yeesha, do you recognize these monsters?"
((Yeah yeah... missed on the attack. No fancy attack animations yet.))

Posted by: Kaihaku Fri Jul 15, 2005 6:43 am
[Detect Evil] Cedric looks at the decaying creatures shambling towards him and turns to the others urgently, "Be cautious, these zombies are EVIL!!!" ((Right... You wish... In reality or fantasy or whatever this is...)) [Spot 16]
Cedric's keen eyes take in the battlefield quickly and he glances back at the others, "Quickly! We must spread out to ensure the safety of all the wagons." Ignoring the enemies near to him, the Holy Knight breaks into a run towards the further wagons. Despite the heavy armor weighing him down, he manages to reach the center wagon before he comes to a stop, his weapon drawn.

Posted by: Cyrus Fri Jul 15, 2005 6:57 am
Deciding the team's caravan was more important than those of the shrieking merchants, Castor turns his attention to the zombies closest to him, particularly the one on the right. However, sloppy execution makes him miss his target, and only a quick readjustment makes him able to hold on to it.
[Attack = 1.
Miss! Confirm Failure.
Confirm = 5.
Not failure.]

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Fri Jul 15, 2005 7:06 am
((Crazy! Cool!)) Zook gasps at what he sees. Having never seen zombies, the sight is more than a little off-putting. Still, the distraction is only momentary, and Zook recovers quickly. ((Attack Roll 9 + 5 = 14 Hit confirmed. Damage roll 1 + 4 + 1 = 6))
Turning left on his heel, Zook levels the cylinder in his hand and looks down the length of it, aiming at the nearest zombie.
((Spot check: 19 + 5 = 24))
As he does so, he notices that the flesh of the zombies is wholly intact.
"Wouldn't reanimated corpses have signs of decomposition?", he wondered aloud before pulling a trigger set into the butt of the cylinder, the resulting spark igniting the powder and propelling the ball out and into the undead, sinking into the spongy tissue of its abdomen.

Posted by: Critical Mass Fri Jul 15, 2005 7:28 am
Rhizor's eyes narrow as he sees the zombies and he hesitates, turning to Cedric. "Something is amiss here. These are not normal zombies.. and I'm sure you remember what Yeesha said about Dava. How do these merchants look to you?" Eyclone waits for a response before acting, not quite sure just what to believe.
((Delay action until after Cedric responds or until just before the zombies act, whichever is sooner. If the merchants don't come back as evil, I fly on top of the nearest wagon and cast Briar Web in the center of that L-shaped group of zombies to the northeast. It's basicaly entangle but does 2d6 damage if they try to do anything and fail the save/check, and should cover every zombie in the L and the two leftmost ones out of the line of three just above them. Reflex save DC 19. If the merchants do come back as evil or if I don't get an answer I lose a Creeping Cold for Summon Monster II, summoning one greenbound wolf between the first and second wagon groups from the top. fecking AIM roller.))

Posted by: Rusty Fri Jul 15, 2005 7:30 am
*Rather than arm himself, Faralon pulls out his Masterwork Lute and begins to play on it, stepping beside Amelios as he sings aloud to the music.* : To arms, to arms! To battle we go! Zombies we fight, with clerics in tow! The zombies they'll fall - to our mighty blades! The zombies they'll fall, right here in the glades!
((Inspire Courage to all that can hear. That's +1 to attack and +1 to damage rolls.))

Posted by: Arcdragnbreth Fri Jul 15, 2005 7:47 am
((Rolled a 20 on my Sing check. Cedric better join in, Kai...)) Unable to hold back song any further, the elf gleefully joined his voice with that of his brother. Their sweet, sweet harmony wafted across the field, the Bard's song "Their knuckles, their feet
They shuffle and scrape;
And yet, from us
They'll find no escape!
On forward, on forward
My brothers in fight!
And see that none living
Feel pain from this blight!"

Posted by: Dark Maiden Fri Jul 15, 2005 1:24 pm
((Spot 18. Little ol' perceptive Kethra notices the limp)) As the group is making their way through the halls and tunnels in the castle, Kethra notices that Yeesha is walking with a limp. Despite her concern, the slightly anxious half elf does not say anything about it. While they are traveling, she remains close to Damas, though she herself is not clear why. After nearly two hours of travel, she turns to him.
"Please forgive me for my behavior earlier, sir. Even though you provoked me, I should not have hit you."
((Please do insert a reply to her words when you get on, Eric ))
-----
When they come over the hill to see zombies everywhere, her eyes widen. It is not so much fear as it is shock, for she has never seen a zombie before in her entire life.
"Are these the seer's servants...? Or are they our enemies?"
((I'll post the rest of my action when I get confirmation from our paladin who the real evil ones are))

Posted by: Wandering Dezorian Fri Jul 15, 2005 3:24 pm
((I'm gone for one day, and all this happens?)) At the castle Spot 3 + 9 = 12, the merchant is just as clueless about the limp. As the others make their way to the wagons, Brand pulls the sorceress aside for a moment. "It might be worth it to send three of your best scouts the the area the prince was last known to be in. It is possible that whoever took the prince will return to that area once the official search is called off, either to set up an ambush or to clear away signs of the prince's passage. Should that happen, hopefully at least one of your scouts can escape to bring us the news. Additionally, since they could be there for some time, they will have the opportunity to search the area for as long as they could wish. Perhaps they will turn up something."
"With the cleric's magic weakening, how can we say that the magic of your seer is not equally clouded?"
As the team makes preperations to leave, the merchant spends his time in the warehouses of the city, speaking with the Ninja of what goods his homeland places great stock on, and searching out for those goods within the city of Cypress.
Profession(Merchant) 18+3 = 21
150 gp invested
On the road
The merchant rides in his own cart, in the middle of the train of his companions. He spends his time watching the others and their interactions, but also noticing how they prepare, with books, prayers or cold iron. Talks with the individual warriors revealed more of their abilities and their temperment, though much of it had already been shown during the spat in the war room... As for himself, the merchant spends much of his time sitting in the front of the wagon, polishing already gleaming iron and sharpening his blades with a small whetstone. His staff and leather-wear is gone, and instead the merchant rattles as if wearing chain under his green tunic, and carries two large swords strapped to his back. Rough haversacks cover the entirety of both blades, however, so their quality cannot be guaged.
And now, at the battle...
Brand hops off his cart to follow the others, hefting a heavy tower shield with him. A bundle of staves are attached to the backside of the shield, rattling as the merchant slings the entire system over his back with practiced ease, the shield pinning but not twisting or hurting his powerful wings on his back.
As the zombies come into view, the birdman realizes with a sinking feeling that the team is completely surrounded. 'Looks like we find out how tough we are, a bit earlier than I had hoped...'
Scouts are not generals, but some tactical situations are constant, and all soldiers of Bedoe are trained in basic small-team tactics. But just as the birdman was about to shout out his recommendations for the defense of the merchants, the druid made his critical observation, and the merchant bit back his orders, only shouting "HOLD!" while scanning the opposition while waiting for the paladin to identify the true enemies. "Sorceress," he shouts, "are these your seer's servants?"
Spot 6 + 9 = 15
Listen 5 + 7 = 12
Survival (for general knowledge) 10 + 7 = 17.
Action: Delay until Cederic makes his identification, or I get more info.

Posted by: Damas Heretic Fri Jul 15, 2005 8:33 pm
Still standing beside Kethra Damas chuckles lightly stareing at the undead in the area as he speaks to her in a somewhat calm tone of voice. "Don't worry about it milady I had expected you would bash me after all I wasn't as kind as I could have been.And please don't call me Sir....it makes me feel old the name's Damas.

Posted by: Kaihaku Fri Jul 15, 2005 8:52 pm
((Already I can tell this is going to be a musical campaign, I rolled a twenty as well.)) [Perform(Voice) 20 + 5 = 25] [Listen 19 = 19] [CON 13 + 2 = 15 (Loud voice)] As Cedric sprints forward, a smile crosses his face at the sound of the Bard's singing and despite the heavy armor he bursts into song as well, his deep voice sounding across the battlefield, "Fear not ye travelers, The Light has not forsaken you! For in your time of trial, It has brought us to you, to drive away the foul perv..." The Paladin's song stops abruptly as he hears the words of the Druid and with a troubled look examines the figures inside the wagon he is approaching. Men are inside; some praying, some cowering, some uncomfortably wielding weapons... Reaching his goal at the center of the caravan, Cedric comes to a stop with his weapon drawn and glances back towards the others, his voice raising above the din of battle, "Dava? A continent and a sea separate us from her, what could she have to do with this? What say you Kyoji?"

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Fri Jul 15, 2005 8:57 pm
: "These are not the minions of the seer. We are too far from her home. It is impossible," the ninja replies, having run towards the front of the caravan line. Those who call to Yeesha find she is not present, having been left behind with the cart.

Posted by: Wandering Dezorian Fri Jul 15, 2005 9:04 pm
"Then we must save the caravan from the enemy!" "Wagons, to us! Wagons, to us and safety!" the birdman shouts as he pulls a cord and allows the shield to drop, and reaches behind him to draw one of his blades as he quickly shouts to the team, "We must draw in the wagons to have a hope of protecting them. Clerics, to the wagons, and turn what enemies you can away from them! Wizards, you can strike the enemies that threaten the northernmost carts before we can reach them. Burn them down, and buy the wagons time! Monk, Ninja, to the farthest wagons. Make them come to us, and guard their flanks! Paladin, minotaur, for the wagons to survive they must have an avenue of escape. Paladin, hold back those zombies just to the north of us, that threaten the road, giant, those to the east on the grasslands. Druid, our enemies are in your woodlands. If you cannot destroy them there, than hold them back and buy us time! Look to those the paladin cannot reach, who can cut off the carts from the west! All other fighters, with me! Destroy the zombies to the south of us, and protect our wizards!"
As the combat finally begins, the birdman gives a quick spin to the blade he holds, and the haversacks spin off, revealing a deadly-looking double-bladed sword, and uses the same motion to threaten the zombie to the southeast.
Initiative: 11 (1d20) + 2 = 13
Action: Drop shield, full attack on zombie to southeast.
Note: Dropping a carried, but not worn, shield is a free action, according to the rules.
Attack 1, +1 enchanted head: 9 + 3(Bab) + 1 (encht) + 1 (song) = 14
Damage: 7(1d8) + 2(str) + 1 (ench) + 1 (song) = 11
Offhand 1, normal head: 14 + 3(Bab) + 1 (song) = 18
Damage: 3(1d8) + 1(str) + 1 (song) = 5

Posted by: Century Fri Jul 15, 2005 10:08 pm
(( Spot: 9+2+1 = 12... Missed the limp )) ~His mind lost amongst images of walking corpses, Elias had followed the group almost blindly towards the carts. His concentration had been devoted to the mission at hand - a curious affair, he had thought - and walking through the hidden tunnels of the castle hadn't been a stimulating experience~
~Even on the journey, Elias had settled into the background. Pruning the edges of his wings' feathers, he had listened to the small talk en route, or the chatter about what people expected. He had failed to notice the ninja depart, but the change in attitude of the rest of the group had quickly alerted him to there being something wrong. Others closer to the front had begun to dismount, and spreading his wings slightly he hopped lightly to the ground~
~Even his keen senses had failed him though. Watching what was further along the route, Elias had missed the slight motion to his left and behind him. To his dismay, he felt less than secure, an exposed flank revealing himself to the woodland to the east~
"By the Gods!" he cried, whirling around. The sounds of voices from other members of the group, glorious singing amidst questioning cries, the screams of civilians and the moans of the dead, from every direction, confused him. Amongst the noise, however, he heard the familiar voice of another birdman, issuing commands with authority. Taking the advice on board, and seeing some of the warriors in the group break forwards, Elias located one of the walking dead~
(( Init: 6 + 6 = 12 ))
~Following the lead of one of the stranger members of the group, Elias unfurled his wings, and took briefly to the air, coming to perch on the wagon just to his north. Weaving his hand intricately whilst muttering an incantation, he pointed a talon teh shambling creature directly north of him, a pulse of Magical energy blasting from his hand towards the fell soul~
(( Magic Missile: 2 missiles, Dam: 3+1 + 4+1 = 9 ))

Posted by: Aldur Fri Jul 15, 2005 11:17 pm
(( spot check 3+2)) Amelios didn't notice the limp that ailed the good Lady Yeesha, too caught up in his own musing, only to be brought out of his seeming trance by the cries and shotus of the battle. Upon arrival his eye's burned with holy zeal, see the walking corpses terrorising the surround wagons and he nodded to himself. The zealous Cleric moved upwards, towards the tip of the nearest Wagon.
The Kyantol bowed his head and took out the holy symbol of Mitula, holding it high in the air for all to see. "Take heart good friends! Pray and the Gods shall deliver us! Let your faith save you from these monsters! Oh most Holy Mitula, Lend us your aid! Banish these pitiful creatures from my sight. I your humble servant ask this!"
The Symbol seems to glimmer in the air, the little goddess statue flaring with light, becoming bright for a moment and then flashes once, the power of Mitula Flowing though the symbol.
((Alright...I hope I did that right. First time doing this...
Turning Check. 11+2
Damage check... 6+5+4 (( level plus 1 from improved turning))+2=17. I hope I did this right...^^))

Posted by: Rusty Sat Jul 16, 2005 12:16 am
((I have TUM's permission to work Scare's charrie, and also Scare's? He says he can't do it right now, and I think it'd be better to at least have the character be active while the player isn't able to be.)) *Aurik holds his palms together, in prayer, as he speaks.*
Aurik: Mighty Volcanon, send this vile horde of undead away!
((Turning check. 7+3 = 10.
Damage: 6 + 6 + 6 = 18...I think someone made a pact with Zeon...))

Posted by: Critical Mass Sat Jul 16, 2005 1:17 am
((Alright, guess I'm going with the briar web.))

Posted by: Knight_019 Sat Jul 16, 2005 9:24 pm
((Spot: 1d20 + 7 = 19 + 7 = 26. Merkass eyes the limp. Spot: 1d20 + 7 = 5 + 7 = 12. Merkass notices that the zombies seem to be attacking anything they can get to Init: 1d20 + 5 = 9 + 5 = 14.)) *Merkass keeps a fast, sprinting pace ahead of the group, for most of the travel, hoping to spy anything ahead of him that he may be able to see. The lady Yeesha's leg looks as though she is most definitely favoring it, but Merkass saw no reason to question it at this time. Occassionally, Merkass would slip back in with the group as he rested between sprints. Others may have found his movement strange, but it was as natural to him as their steady, walking pace was to them. The sight of the caravans brought utter disgust and spite to his being. A multitude of undead surrounded them, and it was only a natural motion for him to withdraw his bow. He hissed the word "Undead" as he prepared to move. Moving back through the ranks to let the others through, Merkass lets an arrow fly at the undead closing behind their ranks. Though he would like to focus on the caravans, the floating suspicion that the caravans may not be completely innocent gave him second thoughts. They would find out soon enough. Strangely, the sound of the Elf's music seemed to allow him to focus much more clearly on the task at hand, and the arrow flew true to its mark far better than he ever remembered being able to do before*
((Move action: Diagonal back 2 toward Cyrus's character (15'). Right 1 (20'), Diagonal back-left 1 (25'), Right 2 (35').
Attack
1d20 + 7 + 2(Favored Enemy) + 1 (PBS) + 1 (Bardic Music) = 11 + 11 = 22.
Damage
1d8 + 2 (Mighty) + 1 (PBS) + 1 (Bardic Music) = 2 + 4 = 6.))

Posted by: DragonmasterDon1 Sat Jul 16, 2005 10:01 pm
((Someone can have my permission to battle with Isyndel for the time being too, as I'm still reading the chapters on how to battle! I don't want to hold anyone up while I'm learning to do so, and it will give me a chance to see how it flows as well.))

Posted by: Knight_019 Sat Jul 16, 2005 10:32 pm
((If it's fine I'll control Isyndel for you this round))

Posted by: Nightmare Sat Jul 16, 2005 10:38 pm
((Spot 1D20 +8 = 2 + 8 = 10 and a blind were-wolf Init D20 +3 = 7 + 3 = 10)) *As the group embarked upon their journey, Laika decided that it'd be smart not to say anything until any remaining tension within the group would settle, that way he wouldn't get on the bad side of any of his new allies.
As the force finds itself swarmed with zombies, Laika decides to take out the zombies that pose the greatest threat to the weaker allies. He takes off towards the zombie to his right.*
((Attack
Claw 1 - D20 + 6 + 1(Bardic music) = 12 + 6 + 1 = 19
Claw 2 - D20 + 6 + 1(Bardic music) = 19 + 6 + 1 = 26
Bite - D20 + 1 + 1 (Bardic song) = 12 + 1 + 1 = 14
Damage
Claw 1 - 1D8 + 3 + 1 = 3 + 3 + 1 = 7
Claw 2 - 1D8 + 3 + 1 = 5 + 3 + 1 = 9
Bite - 1D4 + 1 + 1 = 4 + 1 + 1 = 6))
*It was weird how Laika actually seemed to b affected by the bard's song, he didn't understand it, but he didn't fight it, if it made him fight any better he was all for it.*

Posted by: Knight_019 Sun Jul 17, 2005 1:10 am
((Because TUM told me to...)) *Isyndel looks around at the masses of zombies, thinking "Hmph... these undead are a bit too close for my tastes," so she moves back behind the rest of the group for cover. Getting an idea from the "masses" idea, however, she realizes she has just the trick to slow them down... even more from their usually slow gait. Isyndel removes a small vial from her spell component's pouch and begins to pull out some silky spider thread. Tracing out arcane symbols in the air, the thread in her hand suddenly vanishes as an area about 75' in front of her bursts into oversized spider webs.*
((Spells Before
0
Daze, Detect Magic, Resistance, Disrupt Undead
1
Burning Hands, Magic Missile, Sleep
2
Melf's Acid Arrow, Mirror Image, Web
Isyndel casts web centered on the space below the zombie in the center of the seven zombies to the left of the caravans. All zombies caught within are entangled
Reflex Save DC 15 or be immobilized in the square (DC 20 STR check or DC 25 escape artist to become mobile again)
Spells After
0
Daze, Detect Magic, Resistance, Disrupt Undead
1
Burning Hands, Magic Missile, Sleep
2
Melf's Acid Arrow, Mirror Image))

Posted by: Kyosokun Sun Jul 17, 2005 3:06 am
Ryhir follows the ninja, and is suprized by the sight they come apon. "To arms!", he shouts, drawing out an unusual weapon, resembling a scimitar, but slightly heavier. With that, he moves forward, dashing gracefully forward, seemingly moving in time with the bard's music and accompanied singing. ((Perform: Dancing = 1d20(10) + 3 = 13)) Reaching his target, his blade begins to move as well, continuing the dance his body started, and ending it with a savage strike at the zombie.
((*edit* Said zombies are gone, going after different bunch, Knight knows where to place me
Attack: 1d20(9) + 8 = 16
Dam: 1d8(8) + 4 = 12))

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Sun Jul 17, 2005 3:08 am
Laika manages to slay his opponent, the corpse dropping the ground, lifeless once more as Brand manages to first decapitate, then bisect his enemy with his double sword. Kyoji dashes forward to support Cedric, drawing twin angular blades as he does so, and somersaulting over the head of a zombie in his path. Landing, he engages a pair of zombies close to him, charging and lashing out at the zombie to his right. Unfortunately, only one sword hits, for little effect. The zombie turns to counterattack and Kyoji melts away into the shadows of the forest, disappearing in an instant.
((One hit for a whopping 3 damage. -_- Swift action: Ghost Step.))
The bulk of the enemy undead scatter as the power of the turning hits them, but Amelio's turning seems to have less effect than it should. As the zombies turn to flee, Kyoji and Ashathel see opportunities to strike!
((17-9=8.))
((AoO: Miss by Kyoji.))
The zombie Kyoji attacked swipes blindly and hits nought but air. A group of zombies is caught by Isyndel's web as another is torn by thorny vines that hold them fast at the same time.
((I couldn't find exactly what you two spellcasters were looking for, so I threw the Web and Briar Web at the two most logical groups I saw. There is a zombie missing from the Web because he rolled a nat 20 and got out of the way. All zombies hit by Briar Web take 9 damage.))
Map:
Map Key Note: Green circle is Briar Web. Yellow circle is Web. Yellow eyed zombies indicate they have been turned.

Posted by: Kaihaku Sun Jul 17, 2005 4:48 am
[Detect Evil] Cedric braces himself as the zombies near him, pausing for a moment to throw a glance to the south. He grunts out a chuckle then, softly murmuring to himself, "Evil zombies...go figure..." The Holy Knight of Mitula firmly grasps his hammer in both hands and lifting it over his shoulder, brings it down mightily upon the zombie stumbling before him.
[Power Attack 3]
[Attack Roll]
19 + 9 + 2 - 3 = 26
[Damage Roll]
1 +7 + 6 + 1 = 15

Posted by: Knight_019 Sun Jul 17, 2005 5:10 am
*The noble paladin seemed to be in danger now that he was surrounded by the horde of zombies. Images of his friends being torn apart and feasted upon by these foul creatures entered his mind, and he vowed to never let it happen again. Whispering a feline curse upon the undead to his bow, Merkass moved into a favorable position to the right to get a clear shot. Knocking an arrow, he let it fly and watched as it sailed toward its target.*
((Move: 1 diagonal back-right and 4 to the right. This should put Merkass one row back from where he was and in the column between the line of zombies and the lone zombie below them.
Attack the bottom zombie in melee with Cedric
1d20 + 11 - 4 (in melee) = 13 + 7 = 20.
Damage
1d8 + 3 = 7 + 4 = 11.))

Posted by: Rusty Sun Jul 17, 2005 6:25 am
*Still singing, Faralon drops his lute into a bush, arming himself now instead with his long bow.* ((Dropping it's a free action...I'm sure it'll be fine. >.> It's Masterwork.)) "...The wizards cast spells, The zombies are quelled; And Cedric does
daringly advance!
But look, what is this?
Something is amiss!
He swings not but just
gives a glance!"
((Detect Evil's a standard action! x_X You're just staring at 'em, Kai.))

Posted by: Big Poppa Sun Jul 17, 2005 7:31 am
(( Knowledge (religion) check to see if I can find anything out on the zombies 18+2+6 = 26 )) *Aurik focuses on the nearby Undead and calls out to Volcanon while presenting his holy symbol* "Repent you foul monsters! Begone!" ((Using Extra Turning (Sun Domain- 1/day)
Turn check-
11+3+2 = 16
2d6= 2+3 = 5+3+3= 11 ))

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Sun Jul 17, 2005 7:52 am
Zook, seeing the zombies in the center of the field being handled, and unable to leap to the aid of the embattled Paladin, strides to the other side of the caravan line, where a column of undead await. After a time, he stops to again perform the curious ritual of reloading the rifle. While doing so, he looks up briefly to see Merkass loose his arrow. A flash of inspiration struck him, as he saw the arrow drift lazily towards it target.
Archers and their antiquated codswaddle, Zook thought derisively. Well, if I can't convince them to use guns, I can at least, perhaps, build them a better bow...
((Move 20' right, reload rifle))

Posted by: Kaihaku Sun Jul 17, 2005 3:09 pm

QUOTE (Rusty @ Sun Jul 17, 2005 6:25 am)
"...The wizards cast spells, The zombies are quelled; And Cedric does daringly advance! But look, what is this?
Something is amiss!
He swings not but just
gives a glance!"
((Detect Evil's a standard action! x_X You're just staring at 'em, Kai.))

((Curses... For some reason I was thinking I could trade my move action for a standard action. I need to stop posting late at night. Since I'm a kind soul, I won't make you edit Rusty and instead I'll forgo my attack and stand defensively while detecting evil.))

Posted by: Nightmare Sun Jul 17, 2005 8:29 pm
As the zombie's body falls to the ground missing a chunk from its neck, Laika spits out a chunck of flesh. Now that he knows how horrible zombie tastes like he makes a mental note to try and avoid ever doing that again unless he absolutely had to.
He then spots his next target and charges towards it striking out at it as soon as he was close enough.
((Charging towards the zombie that is just to the left of the southern most caravan, and stopping diagonally down and to the left of it.
Attack
Claw - D20 +6 + 1 (Bard) + 2 (Charge) = 3 + 6 + 1 + 2 = 12
Hit
Claw - D8 + 3 +1 = 4 + 3 + 1 = 8))

Posted by: Dark Maiden Mon Jul 18, 2005 12:54 am
((I am back. Sorry, but I just spent all weekend at Connecticon, and I am tired. Eric is also not going to be around for a while, so he asked me to take his actions. In order to do so, however, I need to know which icon is supposed to be Damas, for the sake of keeping his ass alive 'till Eric returns. I would make an attack post but I'm as sleepy as hell. I do promise that I will throw one up tomorrow. For now, Kethra is moving north steadily, but cautiously. If I do indeed get close enough to something, let me know and I will attack it ^___^))

Posted by: Rusty Mon Jul 18, 2005 1:49 am
((Come to think of it, I can't find Damas, myself. I think Marine forgot to put him on the map. We do have a lot of active characters right now, though, so it's understandable that he might forget one or two.))

Posted by: Dark Maiden Mon Jul 18, 2005 3:20 am
((Well he has no avatar, so that is a problem... Perhaps a modded icon would suit him... Come to think about it, a modded Kazin should work))

Posted by: Knight_019 Mon Jul 18, 2005 3:37 am
((I sent TUM a grid and gave him an icon. If he doesn't like it he can say something))

Posted by: Cyrus Mon Jul 18, 2005 5:20 am
Nodding as the birdman shouted the order, Castor turns from his current opponent, assured that the merchant turned soldier could handle it. He then makes a charge to one of the zombies currently attacking the middle line of caravan, bearing low to the ground and goring the undead with his horns...
[Attack Roll = 8+5(Str)+2(Charge)=15.
Confirmed Hit!
Damage = 2+6+8= 16.
Death!]
The zombie is thrown into the air, horns stabbing viciously into the body as it lands on the ground.

Posted by: Arcdragnbreth Mon Jul 18, 2005 5:40 am
((Boo hoo hoo... only 15 on my Sing check. Suppose it's good enough, with the mod bringing it up, but still...)) Slipping the rapier back into it's sheath, Ashathel nonchalanty drew his bow and fit an arrow to the string. As he loosed it, he joined his brother in song once more, continuing where the other Faesaen left off. Though the words seemed to fit well enough, he was not completely thrilled by them and made a mental note to practice word combinations in the near future.
"Alas, these beasts
Are too far to maim
So as Faralon seeks archery
I'll do the same!
The brothers Faesaen
Take up their bows
And pull strings tightly
To halt our foes!"
((Attack: 1d20+2+4+1 = 114
Damage: 1d6+3 [-5 DR] = 0...))
"Hmm... not good enough, I see..." the former spellcaster muttered watching his arrow strike an exposed bone and bounce harmlessly to the grass. "Very well... it seems I'll have to try again later, then!"

Posted by: Wandering Dezorian Mon Jul 18, 2005 5:43 am
"Well struck, casters! Watch the three to our east, fighters. Push them hard, and we may keep the undead from striking even one of these carts. Sweep up and slay as you go!" And with that, the birdman shoves off the ground, powerful wings beating hard to propel him just barely above the path below him.
((Action, fly to the north, landing in the gaggle of zombies threatening the northernmost cart. If I can reach them in a double move, then I'm charging them. Otherwise, I'm doing a full run, speed x4 (160 ft), and accepting the attacks of opportunity that provokes, if the zombies can actually do those.))
TUM, can you roll for me? I don't have dice available here.
Attack, +1 enchanted head: 1d20 + 3(Bab) + 1 (encht) + 1 (song) + ? (charging) = ?
Damage: (1d8) + 2(str) + 1 (ench) + 1 (song) + ? (charging) = ?

Posted by: Critical Mass Mon Jul 18, 2005 5:45 am
Rhizor takes to the air and lands on the nearest cart, hoping the added height will keep him somewhat out of reach of the zombies. He then begins the first half of a spell, drawing upon the ancient lore he learned long ago in Guardania. ((Drop Creeping Cold for SNA II, getting two greenbound wolves. They'll pop up on either side of the space between the two top caravan groups right before my next action.))

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Mon Jul 18, 2005 7:51 am
((That reminds me, I need volunteers willing to allow me to mess with their character's past. I cannot reveal the nature of the meddling, or who from those applying gets chosen. By agreeing, you waive complaining rights and allow me full history access.))

Posted by: Critical Mass Mon Jul 18, 2005 8:45 am

QUOTE (TheUnknownMarine @ Mon Jul 18, 2005 7:51 am)
((That reminds me, I need volunteers willing to allow me to mess with their character's past. I cannot reveal the nature of the meddling, or who from those applying gets chosen. By agreeing, you waive complaining rights and allow me full history access.))

((Meddle away. I've got a good fourty or so years for you to f*ck me over with.))

Posted by: Big Poppa Mon Jul 18, 2005 9:40 am
((Free reign over the Emo Cleric Go for it, Marine, Aurik is all yours.))

Posted by: Aldur Mon Jul 18, 2005 1:45 pm
(( I also have no complaints. His past isn't spectacular though. Pretty boring.)) Amelios moved again, over to the base of the next cart, and once again invoked the powers of his Goddess, somewhat peturbed about the fact his turning attempts aren't doing as much good as they usually would. He held up the small statue of the goddess and called out to Mitula, begging for her aid.
(( Turn check = 17+2 (Ahahahaha, the dice love me.)) = 19
2d6= 3+5+4+2=14 damage. I believe I did right again.))

Posted by: Nightmare Mon Jul 18, 2005 3:14 pm
(Considering how I really haven't given Laika a past at all, you may do whatever you wish.))

Posted by: Twitch Mon Jul 18, 2005 5:36 pm
((Do whatever you gotta do TUM, if you feel its necessary)) Gabriel drew a quick breath as he looked over the sheer number of zombies attacking... Shrugging off the initial surprise, he drew his greatsword and made a beeline for the zombies threatening the closest caravan.
Letting loose with a feral roar, he planted his left foot and swung the sword in a great horizontal arc, allowing the blade's momentum to spin him along with it full circle and back to a ready position facing the zombie once again.
((I've probably forgotten to account for something in here, but I'm on lunch and don't have time to double check everything))
[Power Attack 2]
[Attack Roll] 15 + 8 - 2 = 21
[Damage Roll] 5 + 4 + 7(STR) +4(PA) = 20
EDIT to reflect correct PA mod.

Posted by: Century Mon Jul 18, 2005 9:21 pm
(( Go for it, TUM. I haven't stuck up a histoire yet, but I'll send you one if you want ))

Posted by: Knight_019 Mon Jul 18, 2005 9:33 pm
((Since this has come up a few times, If you are wielding a 2-handed weapon and using the Power Attack feat the bonus to damage is doubled.))

Posted by: DragonmasterDon1 Mon Jul 18, 2005 11:23 pm
The tangled mass of webs far before her had seemingly slowed the advance of the undead for the time being. Isyndel began to move forward and then came to a stop short thereafter. There was a nasty trick to the webbing that spell created that she longed to use in combat but the surrounding trees and forests about made her more than apprehensive.
There were a few other tricks up her sleeve, and Isyndel knew she had no other choice but to try them. Isyndel chose an entrapped foe, the one closest to the carts and with one deft motion she was into her components again and chanting a spell. The energy swirled before her briefly and the slightest of smiles crossed her face. An instant later, she released it and watched two pulses streak towards their target.
((Short move northward, as far as I can do and still cast. Action: Magic Missile, targetting the easternmost webbed zombie.
Rolls: 4 + 1 = 5, 2 + 1 =3, 8 total))

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Tue Jul 19, 2005 12:56 am
((WD: You were just short of a charge, but had a lot of extra movement, so I placed you out of the zombie's attack range, close enough to do a full attack later, and made you airborne enough to soar over the heads of the zombies.)) Castor's charge crumples one of the zombies as Gabriel's huge sword does the same. A few of the zombies flee the area completely from the turning, others are held fast by their magical restraints.
((Cedric gets an AoO from the zombie that fled from him.))
To the north, the horde of zombies mindlessly bites into the terrified horse of the first cart, bringing it down with a gurgling whinny as they claw and bite into it's neck, tearing off strips of flesh and swallowing them with undead mouths.
Kethra and Damas take stock of their situation. (Refocus)
Swift edit: Ryhir charges the zombie engaging Kyoji and deals it a hefty blow. (12 damage))
Kyoji bursts from concealment to strike at his opponent again, but both his attacks miss as he dodges from the counterattack. Meanwhile Cedric easily parries the feeble blows from his foes.

Posted by: DragonmasterDon1 Tue Jul 19, 2005 1:58 am
((Posting now if I can...if not, just leave this until whenever I can actually act again. But I'm going to bed soon and I have to work tomorrow so...figured better to have it now then wait until then.)) ((Listen Roll - 17. 2 ranks racial bonus, 1 for Wisdom. = 20. Believe I can hear the song)).
((Attack Roll - 7. 1 BAB, 3 DEX, 1 Bard song, 1 Masterwork = 13))
((Damage Roll - 5, 1 for Bard song = 6))
Realizing almost foolishly that the Webbed zombies should not be a concern just yet, Isyndel took a short step to ensure a clear line of fire and brought her attention to the lead cart that was being ransacked. Quickly she brought her crossbow up to fire, and with a slight pause finding 'her center' in Faralon's music, she let off a shot towards the closest zombie she could fire at.

Posted by: Dark Maiden Tue Jul 19, 2005 2:13 am
((Knowing who is who really helps, TUM. Thanks)) Kethra mutters a silent curse to herself at the sight of the horse being torn apart by the zombies, and horrible images of the same thing happening to them flutter through her mind. Though it scares her at first, she hardens her resolve and moves north in order to aid her companions already locked in combat.
Damas looks about in shock for a moment, but with such a strong sense of self, he is able to overcome the momentary fear. Deciding that it is in his best interest to stay near a fighter if he is going to start heading north, he follows after Kethra as she moves past him.
((Both Kethra and Damas are moving north, but around the right side of the first wagon. Since she moves 40' and he only moves 30' but she was actually behind him, he's probably behind/beside her or close. If Damas can get a clear shot at one of the zombies, he is going to attack with his crossbow or Melf's if it has long enough range))

Posted by: Twitch Tue Jul 19, 2005 3:05 am
Gabriel watched the zombie crumple to the ground and turned to see Castor make short work of his chosen foe as well. : "nice work, friend... but 5 coins says you can't finish the next one faster than I can!" Gabriel shouted over the sounds of the battle.
As he finished issuing the challenge Gabriel took off North heading for the closest Zombie engaged with Cedric. As he ran forward he dropped the immense blade low, almost scraping the tip along the dirt, and reversed his grip with his right hand.
...Wait for it... almost there... NOW!!!
The thought raced through his mind, as he snapped his sword skyward the moment he closed into striking distance. The sword cut through the zombie in a vicious uppercut, Gabriel's every intention to split the unholy being in two.
[Attack Roll = 8+8 = 16]
[Damage Roll = 5+6+7(STR) = 18]

Posted by: Wandering Dezorian Tue Jul 19, 2005 3:53 pm
"Casters!" the merchant's shout is hard to hear from the far side of the battle, "Aid the farthest cart! Fighters, continue to advance!" Once more, the double edged sword flashes, as the merchant steps forward to attack the undead enemy. --- Action: Move south 5', threatening 3 zombies. If first attack kills an enemy, use my second attack on another zombie. Also, I didn't add in any bonuses to attack for flanking. If I'm flanking the zombie with the cart, I think my critical confirmation will hit.
Attack 1, +1 enchanted head: 20(1d20) + 3(Bab) + 1 (encht) + 1 (song) = 25
Confirm critical hit: 5(1d20) + 3(Bab) + 1 (encht) + 1 (song) = 10
Damage (unmultiplied): 4(1d8) + 2(str) + 1 (ench) + 1 (song) = 8
Offhand 1, normal head: 13(1d20) + 3(Bab) + 1 (song) = 17
Damage: 8(1d8) + 1(str) + 1 (song) = 10

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Tue Jul 19, 2005 9:01 pm
Sidling easily to his right ((move east 15')), Zook scans about, searching for a target. One presents itself; a zombie, framed at this angle by a pair of carts. Bringing the rifle to bear Zook takes careful aim and fires. ((Fire at the Zombie directly behind Kyoji))
((Attack Roll: 7+5+1 = 13))
((Damage Roll: 5+4+1+1 = 11))

Posted by: Rusty Tue Jul 19, 2005 10:15 pm
*Still singing, Faralon aims for the closest zombie and fires in hopes to hit it.* : "Victory's at hand, Without reprimand! The zombies are
being pushed back!
Our path it is paved,
Our warriors have braved!
Now I shall join
in the attack!
*Faralon swiftly zips two arrows at the zombie.*
((Moving up 5'. Hitting whatever zombie I can, turned or not. If any characters are in the way, I don't know if they are, so I haven't put any penalties on that. Adjust 'em as necessary.
Roll to hit...1d20 - 2 + 7 + 1 (Bard music) = 19.
Damage: 5 + 1 (Mighty) + 1 (Bard music) = 7.
Using Rapid Shot...
Roll to hit...1d20 - 2 + 7 + 1 (Bard music) = 23.
Damage: 3 + 1 (Mighty) + 1 (Bard music) = 5.))

Posted by: Knight_019 Tue Jul 19, 2005 10:21 pm
*Merkass snears as he notices his arrows being less effective than he recalled. He soon cursed his blindness, however, as he had forgotten a special brand of arrows his people and some of the other people of the plains used in such situations where mere stabbing would not do. To compensate, Merkass nearly begins a charge until he sees the huge, greatsword wielding man run past and slice into his very target. Showing a wry grin, he instead makes his way around the cart and by the others. As he moves he slings his longbow behind his back and draws his longsword, coming to an end not far from the paladin he had been attempting to help not long before. Merkass stood at the ready, eager to accept any foe that would near him.*
((Double move to the space 10' to the left of Cedric (ie 5' diagonal up from the cart).
BAB >= +1, so I can draw/sheath a weapon as part of a move.
Sheath Longbow during move 1
Draw Longsword during move 2.
Also, for future battles, everyone please remember to roll initiative.))

Posted by: Arcdragnbreth Tue Jul 19, 2005 11:28 pm
((Just so things can move if they need to... - init check was 21 (rolled a 17) - attack passed (rolled a 20) - damage is 4 (would have been nine, were it not for the damn DR) - sing check was a 5 total; poor lyrics will follow
I'll make this post all purdy-like later...))

Posted by: Kaihaku Wed Jul 20, 2005 1:05 pm
Cedric lifts his hammer and brings it down upon one of the foul undead with all of his strength. The blow is slow but powerful and while another foe may have been able to evade it the zombie is struck with its full force. [Power Attack -3] [Attack Roll 10 + 9 - 3 = 16]
[Damage Roll 7 + 7 + 6 = 20]

Posted by: Dark Maiden Wed Jul 20, 2005 5:27 pm
((Sorry Knight! Kethra's Initiative: 22 Damas' Initiative: 19 There you are))

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Wed Jul 20, 2005 7:25 pm
((Init is just 1d20 + DEX right? If so, 11 + 3 = 14))

Posted by: Wandering Dezorian Wed Jul 20, 2005 7:31 pm

QUOTE (Wandering Dezorian @ Fri Jul 15, 2005 3:04 pm)
Initiative: 11 (1d20) + 2 = 13

Just in case it was missed.

Posted by: Rusty Wed Jul 20, 2005 7:32 pm
((Initiative: 14 + 4 = 18.))

Posted by: Twitch Wed Jul 20, 2005 9:01 pm
((Init. 11 + 2 = 13))

Posted by: Aldur Wed Jul 20, 2005 10:25 pm
((Init= 18+1=19)) Amelios frowned and moved up again, being careful pf the postions of the zombies, moving up just enough for his turning attentions to reach the zombies by the top cart, hoping to save the people within. He held up the statue of the Goddess he held, shouting out in a loud clear voice for the help of Mitula.
"Help these poor souls, accosted by that which should not be! I ask once more, let your power go forth, and vanquish these fallen souls. Send them back into the abyss, to bother us no more! I ask this of ye Mitula! Verily, hear my plea! Purge!"
The little statue blazed and flickered with holy light, which flared forth, heartening the troubled cleric, who had noted the turning power was weaker than usual.
((Turning check: 10+2=12
damage=4+3+4+2=13.))

Posted by: Century Wed Jul 20, 2005 11:14 pm
(( Init.: 20 (14+ 2 Dex+ 4 Improved Init.) Jump: 31 (19+ 2 Skill+ 10 Race) )) ~Elias quickly gave way to his fighting heritage, jumping from the cart and extending his wings to their full extent. With a powerul flap, he swivels in mid-air, bringing himself into line with his target - one of the creatures ahead of him~
~His wing muscles working as hard as he can, Elias soars ahead, extracting his shortspear from a hoop on his belt as his speed increases. Swooping down, he brings the spear in front of him, the point glistening gleefullyin the light of the clearing. Elias squawks as he comes in, driving the spear-point home on his undead opponent~
(( Jump +5' to a height of 15', Flying charge 50' to the zombie north of Cedric.
To hit: 20 (14 +1 BAB +1 Darkwood Shortspear +1 high ground +2 Dive +1 Bard song )
Damage: 18 (8 + 1, x2 Dive) ))

Posted by: Kyosokun Thu Jul 21, 2005 1:03 am
Having wounded the zombie, Ryhir spins and strikes it once more with the intent of bring it down, before continuing forward to help aide the northern most carts. ((Attack: 1d20(11) + 2(bab) + 3(str) + 1(WF) + 1(MW) +1(bard) = 19 Dam: 1d8(5) + 3(str) + 1(bard) = 9))
((*EDIT* Init: 1d20(14) + 3 = 17))

Posted by: Nightmare Thu Jul 21, 2005 4:21 am
Laika realising there's no way to attack something that poses any sort of a threat right now, he positions himself to make a leathel strike. Moving north past Cedric and the briar web until he reaches the second caravan from the north stopping just five feet away from a zombie, just staring at him, and waiting for his chance to kill, for he loves the smell of blood.

Posted by: FreedomJu Thu Jul 21, 2005 5:04 am
OOC: Please bear with me if there are any mistakes.... Today was a lousy day for Van. First was the fact he got stuck working for a caravan, a duty he normally hated, but the most irritating thing was that he got stuck guarding during the night. So that meant he had been sleeping when the zombies attacked. Of course, with his masterwork Guisarme buried underneath a pile of supplies, it had taken him precious moments to dig it out and it wasn't until the horse assigned to his cart had been killed did he emerge from the right side of the cart. Landing on the ground next to a zombie, Van wasted no time in executing a simple trusting attack at the monster.
Hit=11(d20)+3(BAB)+1(Masterwork)+3(STR)+1(bard)=19
Damage= 3+3(2d4)+4(STR1.5)+1(bard)=11

Posted by: Cyrus Thu Jul 21, 2005 5:54 am
Seeing no enemies he could assault at the present, Castor decides to run up near the north carraiges, putting himself in the most advantagous position he could find, weaving between the woods and his comrades. Guess I lost that bet, he thought as he ran.
[Run: move to left of top-most carriage. If unable, get as close as possible to that position.]

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Thu Jul 21, 2005 6:39 am
Isyndel seems to do little damage with her crossbow. ((DR reduces damage to 1.)) Kethra and Damas move forward and the young mage casts Melf's Acid Arrow! ((6 damage to)) Gabriel's attack cuts his opponent in two even as Zook's shot misses its target by a hair. Ryhir's attack kills Zook's target, and Kyoji runs up to the northern cart. He wastes no time in bringing his swords together like a pair of scissors, using them in unison to cut the head of the zombie he then engages.
((-4 penalty made you barely miss, Vox. Sorry.))
Faralon's arrows both strike, but seem to do very little against the zombie he hits.
((DR reduces damage to 2.))
Meanwhile Faralon's brother has better luck in shooting, but far worse in singing as he suddenly coughs hard due to some mucus in his throat.
((4 damage to southernmost turned webbed zombie.))
Cedric smites his zombie, and smites him good, completely smashing off the head of the foul beast and causing it to sail down a rabbit hole far off in the distance. Cedric doesn't know it, but he has just rediscovered the Ancient game of "Golf".
Elias' weapon seems to have lesser effect, but it matters not, as the sheer force of the blow causes his foe to crumble just as Van leaps from his cart and destroys his own opponent.
The turned zombies flee deeper into the woods.
Then two things happen simultaneously. Fourteen undead burst forth from the ground along the road. They are unblemished by decay as the zombies were, but different. They look more intelligent and their teeth and hands have changed to fangs and claws.
Listen check DC: 15: You hear the crash of a Bolt spell from further behind, about where you left the Lady Yeesha.

Posted by: Wandering Dezorian Thu Jul 21, 2005 5:33 pm
((Err... what happened to Brand's action last round?)) ((Listen check: Natural 20 + 7 = 27)) "D@#% your hides," the birdman growls, "Move the wind-blighted horses to the south, if you want see your children tomorrow!" Smiling grimly as the newer zombies emerge, the birdman starts to ask Cedric if these new foes are also evil. Suddenly, the scout turned merchant tilts his head, listening over the din of battle. That sound...
"Bolt magic!" he shouts. "Striking near the lady Yeesha!"
With a surge of his wings, the birdman flings himself into the air, pushing himself high and fast towards the lady and trying to see with his scout's eyes what danger she might be in.
Fly x4, moving up high enough to see Yeesha, the rest of my movement spent flying southwards.
Spot: 5 + 9 = 14. Eh, should be enough to see if she's under attack, at least. Bolt magic isn't exactly inconspicuous.
Oh, and TUM? Could you tell me what I can see, so I can relay to others, and we can divide our force if necessary?

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Thu Jul 21, 2005 5:40 pm

QUOTE (Wandering Dezorian @ Thu Jul 21, 2005 5:33 pm)
((Err... what happened to Brand's action last round?)) ((Listen check: Natural 20 + 7 = 27)) "D@#% your hides," the birdman growls, "Move the wind-blighted horses to the south, if you want see your children tomorrow!" Smiling grimly as the newer zombies emerge, the birdman starts to ask Cedric if these new foes are also evil. Suddenly, the scout turned merchant tilts his head, listening over the din of battle. That sound...
"Bolt magic!" he shouts. "Striking near the lady Yeesha!"
With a surge of his wings, the birdman flings himself into the air, pushing himself high and fast towards the lady and trying to see with his scout's eyes what danger she might be in.
Fly x4, moving up high enough to see Yeesha, the rest of my movement spent flying southwards.
Spot: 5 + 9 = 14. Eh, should be enough to see if she's under attack, at least. Bolt magic isn't exactly inconspicuous.
Oh, and TUM? Could you tell me what I can see, so I can relay to others, and we can divide our force if necessary?

((You sliced apart your foe. Sorry if I forgot to post as much.))
"Are you blind??? Our horse is dead!" comes a shout from inside the northmost cart. "The damn undead ATE IT!!!"
Brand flies up and sees flashes of magic near the group's cart, but can't see much else.

Posted by: Wandering Dezorian Thu Jul 21, 2005 6:07 pm
"Then get yourselves out of the cart, and get into a cart with a horse! You're more valuable than anything you've got with you, and zombies don't eat riches. You've got a brain on your head, so use it!" the soldier retorts as he lanches himself into the air.
---
"Catman, ninja, monk and werewolf! With me, to defend the Lady Yeesha! All others, stay and defend the carts! Casters, strike while they're grouped! Paladin, are the new foes evil?" the birdman shouts from above. So saying, the birdman throws himself southwards to the aid of their leader.

Posted by: Dark Maiden Thu Jul 21, 2005 6:25 pm
((Listen check: 23)) Kethra turns towards where they had left the cart and her eyes widen. "Lady Yeesha is in trouble?" She turns around to face Damas and sighs. "It looks like I cannot defend you, for Lady Yeesha is in need of my aid now. Stay as far away from the undead as you can, but take them down as quickly as possible. Whatever you do, don't die, alright?" *Loudly* "Defend the casters as well! We can not afford to have any of them fall!"
After saying this, she takes off towards the cart they had left Lady Yeesha in.
((Double move, which is 80'. Should get me pretty close to the birdman))

Posted by: Damas Heretic Thu Jul 21, 2005 6:31 pm
"...Great defenceless except for my spells and a crossbow...Why couldn't I have trained to be a warrior or something?" Damas grumbles this to himself and looks around slowly his eye twitcheing slightly seeing some of the undead were looking his way now.
"....Oh shit."

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