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

Posted by: Rusty Tue May 02, 2006 5:00 am
((...For great justice...))

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Tue May 02, 2006 7:56 am
Date: 1025 years in the past Location: Metaphan Military Classified Installation. Time: 7:06 PM. The Nightmare: http://www.shinola.radh.com/guest/Rusty/d64title.mid The blood was everywhere.
Everywhere.
Washed along the once spotless metal walls and glass viewscreens, splattered on the doors and control panels, even on the metal paneled floor...
Gilliam kept running, he couldn't look back. If he looked back, he might stop. And then they might get him...
"What are they???"
"Enemies unknown, contain the gate room! Contain..."
"...no good, breaches opening in all sectors, it's not contained to the gate! Wha... It's coming from an external source!"
Gunfire mixed with inhuman and human screams alike, and the sick sounds of rending flesh all throughout the base. The chaos continued even over the radio channels...
"They're past the fifth defensive wall, they're making it through to the surface! We can't..."
"Get to cover! Go! Get to-AAAAA-"
"All troops fall back to base command, repeat all troops fall back to base command."
"Specialist Wilson here, my team is dead! All of them! What do I do, I'm fighting blind here!"
"If you can't make it back to command, dig in and fortify your position..."
More screaming. More gunfire. The hum of energy weapons powering up, the fwoosh of their discharge.
"That thing tore the Torch Eye to bits! Watch out, it's coming for-GYAAAA!!!"
"Flooding sector B-5 with NRV-66 agent, that should..."
"...don't work! They're immune to fire too! How can they be..."
"Second wave ineffective... Ineffective! They're... They're turning the dead soldiers into more..."
"Where's General Fasher?? Where are the reinforcements???"
Gilliam slipped in a pool of blood, falling to the floor, his eyes making contact with a skeleton messily stripped of all its flesh.
"AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA"
--------
"AAaaaaa!!!" Gilliam shouted as he came online again, slowly noting his surroundings.
The inn room was small, but considering Gilliam had not much use for space anymore, that was fine. He sighed, mentally.
Another dream during the self repair cycle. This wasn't supposed to happen, was it? Cyborgs with the level of mechanization he'd undergone didn't still have dreams did they?
But the only ones that could've possible answered were millenia-long dead. Gilliam shook his head. There was no time for thoughts like that... The merchant gave him the offer. He would accept.
It was his only hope.
-----------
http://www.shinola.radh.com/guest/Rusty/TitleSF2.mp3
Shining Force: The Chaos War Part III.
Parmecia Campaign
http://www.shinola.radh.com/guest/Rusty/TownSF2.mp3
The port of Hassan is relatively new, founded by soldiers sent from Guardiana only eighteen years ago. The soldiers shipwrecked on the Parmecian shore while searching for Max. The deserts around the port had little lumber to repair the ships, and the soldiers themselves were fatigued and worn out. Though they continued to search, they did so on the continent they had shipwrecked onto, Southern Parmecia. When the search was called off, under political pressure from the nobles financing the searches, the soldiers chose to stay on the continent. The ships were long cannabalized into the first buildings of the town, but this was further augmented by new construction that turned the former field base into a fledging port town.
In exchange for a tax on the new port, located in a relatively advantageous point in terms of trade routes, the nobles and royals allowed the soldiers their mass retirement.
And so Hassan came into being.
It is this new, but bustling port that you find yourselves in now. You've been notified of a job opportunity by one of the more mysterious figures of note... The Merchant Lord Derrik Swiftjoke.
None know much about him save that he runs a small number of shops boasting the ability to acquire almost anything you could imagine... for a price.
Even his name is obviously an assumed identity, for what family with the kind of backing Derrik obviously enjoys would take the name "Swiftjoke"?
Mysterious, powerful, and in need of your help apparently. A favor from someone with Derrik's resources is simply too valuable to pass up. Whether you intend to use this influence for your gain or for others makes no difference.
You're here.
And you've just become part of a webwork of fate that will ensnare the world and change it forever... For good or ill.

Posted by: Aldur Tue May 02, 2006 10:17 am
Kria looked around the gates of the town and grinned, she turned to her companion Tanis. She giggled a little, watching as he caught up to her, well...it was true she had ran ahead. But the town was so close, and she was so hungry...maybe she could make Tanis buy her something.
Then the Catfolk began to pout and scuffled the ground with her feet. She'd forgotten they had practically no money at all. But she had needed those bangles. She looked at them, frowning at the green that was on the fur of her wrist from under the bangle.
She stopped, and narrowed her eyes, letting out a loud groan. She'd been tricked. AGAIN! Maybe if she took Tanis shopping with her she'd get better things...but he was always so obsessed with his magic.
: Taaaaanis! Hurry up! Cmon, cmon! The town is right here! Yeah! Let's go meet this guy and do what he wants and get us lots of money!

Posted by: Alpha Tue May 02, 2006 5:30 pm
Tanis purposely walked slowly, not really seeing any reason to randomly run ahead. Was there any point? No. He reminded himself that that's just what Kria was like. Tanis wasn't particularly looking forward to visiting Hassan. Settlements meant shops. And shops meant items to be bought. And items to be bought means Kria spending money. Again....
They weren't actually nearly out of money. Tanis had a grand and a half left that he'd kept secret. After all, they did need to eat. And bangles do not constitute as adequate food.
With that, Tanis caught up with Kria.
: "Yes yes Kria. I can see it's right there. I know you're excited, but, it's not as if it's going to move, right?"
Following her gaze to her wrist, he saw that she'd likely been tricked again. Not surprisingly. Whilst she had good intentions, Kria was...lacking in the common sense department.
: "Tricked again Kria? Ah well, I'm sure you'll learn eventually"
He couldn't keep some of the wry amusement out of his voice.

Posted by: Aldur Tue May 02, 2006 7:21 pm
: Don't to go sleep tonight. And with a derisive snort and a swish of her head Kria swiftly entered the port town, eyes glittering at the thought of all the pretty trinkets that could be hers...just as soon as she got more money.

Posted by: Rusty Tue May 02, 2006 8:06 pm
: "SQUEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!" *Ombligo howls as he floats about as fast as he can throughout the city. His golden tentacles flail in the wind wildly as his big, beady purple eyes explore the town of Hassan and its inhabitants. His eyes meet with various townspeople, most of which can't help but be slightly disturbed. After all, he is the only thing in town that can speak that doesn't look even slightly humanoid. Ombligo stops momentarily to readjust his red cape. His large eyes blink a few times as he speaks to himself - out loud.*
: "I wonder where Mahler and Sorel decided to go? We have to meet up again soon, though, so I hope they remember where we're supposed to be!"
*Ombligo twirls in a circle mid-air as he begins to float forward once more.*
: "Ah, I can't wait! We're gonna earn MONEY!!!"
*Ombligo's tentacles wrap around his shell as he spins in a circle three times. Upon completing the third spin, he stretches out his tentacles, letting them feel the open air.*
: "And the best part is - we get to beat up the baddies, too!!!"
*Obviously very excited, Ombligo resumes floating towards the meeting place, bobbing in the air the whole way.*

Posted by: Alpha Tue May 02, 2006 10:45 pm
Tanis smiles inwardly. : Of course not Kria. As if I barely do anyway Tanis thinks to himself. The intensity of training really required you to cope with less sleep than others sometimes. Though not if casting's involved. Obviously. After that moment of inner reflection, Tanis realised that Kria was moving away. With a half shrug, half shake of the head, he followed her into Hassan, not knowing if the venture would be good or bad.

Posted by: Rusty Tue May 02, 2006 11:57 pm
Walking through Hassan, Bozak runs into a floating ball of squid. Taken aback by the strange thing, he rests one hand on his sword and proceeds to poke it, trying to figure out what it is. *Ombligo's right tentacle slants over behind his shell, rubbing it as he turns around to see what just touched him.* Ombligo: "HEY!" *Ombligo's eyes light up at the sight of the dragon. How cool! A real dragonman!*
Taken aback by the hyperactive creature, Bozak takes a step back and tries to figure out whats going on. “.. what are you? Are you sentient or just repeating something youve heard.. like a parrot?”
Ombligo: "What? Of COURSE I'm sentient!" *Ombligo says, his tentacles wobbling as he responds.*
Ombligo: "Why wouldn't I be?"
Bozak: “I wasnt sure if you were a pet or livestock or something.. I am afraid I am new to this area, and have never seen anything like you” he responds.
Ombligo: "Pet? I don't think so. I don't belong to anyone!" *Ombligo chirps, amused at the thought rather than offended.* Ombligo: "Well, I never met a dragonman before, either.
You might even be bigger than Mahler!"
Bozak: straightening up to his full 7' height and bows slightly “I am Tenryu Bozak, servant of the Daisatsu clan.”
*Ombligo wipes his shell, a little confused.* Ombligo: "Dai...satsu clan? What's that?"
Bozak: “um... well, I suppose you could say it is my family.” Hesitating a moment, he asks “Do you not belong to any family?
Ombligo: "Everyone always asks me that. I don't think so...But I do have a couple of friends!" *Ombligo says, proudly.*
Bozak: Reflecting for a moment, “Ah, I see. I have left all my friends behind, and have come here to learn and explore, to enhance my clan.”
Ombligo: "Fun! I'm going around all over the world with my friends to explore, too...But we're actually going to start a new job today!"
Bozak: “Oh? What sort of work?”
*At this, Ombligo starts to 'punch' the air to the best of his ability as he continues to float.* Ombligo: "Beating up the bad guys, of course!"
Bozak: “A noble venture. Do you know if there travel involved in it?”
Ombligo: "Yeah! I imagine we'll be going all over the place! It's weird, though. Do merchants always hire workers for this sort of thing? Do they really run into trouble that much?"
Bozak: “I do not claim to understand the ways of merchants,” he says with distaste. “Heh, such things are beneath my status. However, I will be needing to travel and learn, and it is always best to serve the Light in doing so. May I travel with you and apply for this job?”
Ombligo: "Sure! I'm sure Mahler and Sorel will be happy to have new company!"
Bozak: After a deep bow to the creature, “thank you. so.. what is your name, little squid-man?”
*Ombligo begins to chuckle - a particularly odd sound coming from the high-pitched Magic Creature.*
Ombligo: "You talk funny! My name's Ombligo!" *As he says his name, he bobs up and down, his eyes closing momentarily.*
Bozak: “I see. Well then, Ombligo” Imitating his headbobbing and closes his eyes. ”Lead on.”

Posted by: Wandering Dezorian Wed May 03, 2006 12:09 am
Arbeiten smiled to himself, wandering through the streets. His first inclination had been to turn down the mysterious offer. After all, what need did he have of money? But his dream last night had been rather firm on that point. He needed to agree.
Still, he had at least one last afternoon free to himself. Chuckling, the half-giant made his way through the town, clad in his armor but glamored to look like nothing out of the ordinary, just another citizen (if rather tall) going about his daily work.
Civilization sure hadn't changed much in his absence. Still chuckling silently, Arbeiten continued his exploration.

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Wed May 03, 2006 12:45 am
Slate gray clouds hung over the sky, and a chill salt wind blew in off the water. In the air gulls danced and sang, their cries harmonizing with the rush of the surf. It seemed they were oblivious to the impending storm, or perhaps, more keenly aware that it, like all the others, would pass, its gloom broken in the end by the eternal rays of the sun.
Sorel stood on the docks, watching them. Not the birds; his back was to the sea. The old man lost himself watching the crowd of people about their daily business, watching for signs of others who had been summoned. They came to him, at length, glimpses of people who felt the pangs of the old hungers: glory, fame, wealth, justice, and adventure. They were borne along on invisible currents, from all corners of the continent, and from nowhere at all. Like leaves in an autumn wind they congregated and spread, each with his own path and each path bound to all others.
Trembling hands reached into his pouch, and pulled out a single broad leaf. Sorel inhaled deeply as he split it down the center and folded it. Bringing it to his lips, he blew, and a sharp whistle cut the air.
Phweeeeeeeer
Moments passed before a gray shape came into view, drifting towards the old man almost lazily. The shape descended, and perched on his shoulder with a curt "Hoo!". It was early, yet, for the owl to have been awoken, and he did not appreciate it. He answered the call nontheless.
Moving forward, into the currents of life and activity, Sorel leaned heavily on his staff. The time for observation was over. Behind him the gullsong faded, a note of excitment and fear worked into the otherwise carefree call. It seemed that they had been startled, or perhaps, the brewing storm made them uneasy after all.

Posted by: Tarethen Wed May 03, 2006 1:20 am
Clomp. Clomp. Clomp. Clomp. Farain walked steady toward the port of Hassan, taking in the surroundings. He had been towards Hassan several times in his life, but this is the first time that he had a real purpose for going here. His father had business in Hassan every now and then, either buying new supplies in order to train Farain, or just getting some arrows or bow products for himself. Farain's purpose wasn't simply a supply run, though. He was on a mission; a mission to discover and unlock his true potential. How he would do that was still uncertain, but he knew who he needed help from.
As the city grew larger as he drew closer, Farain became more excited, trying to contain breaking out into a full run to reach the city faster. He was ready to leave. He was ready to learn. He was ready for an adventure. He held his bow tightly, the quiver that held his arrows swaying gently beside him and making slight rustling noises as each of the arrows brushed together. One thing was present in the back of Farain's mind: Did he remember to bring everything with him? He sometimes had a tendency to be forgetful, but he would always think up a good excuse. He overslept. He got lost in his training and didn't notice what time it was. Of course, this time Farain made sure he left on time and triple checked to made sure he got everything. Due to sheer amount of times he has forgotten something, though, Farain still felt he was missing something. But, he let this thought fade away so that it could be replaced with pure elation and joy.
Once Farain was at the entrance of Hassan he stopped, marveling at the town that was well-known to him, but a town that felt so new; a town that held new possibilities in life. Finally, after gawking at the entrance long enough, Farain entered. There was a higher concentration of people there this time, and Farain couldn't figure out why. One particular... life form... caught his eye. It seemed to be a floating jelly fish that made noises. Curious, Farain approached it with his bow, poking at it with the hilt. "What... are you?"

Posted by: Rusty Wed May 03, 2006 1:42 am
: "What am I? What's with the poke??? Is that a custom here or something?" *Ombligo asks, slightly confused and a little annoyed from all the poking.* : "Well...I'm a Magic Creature! At least, that's what the book back home said." *Oddly enough, he was completely serious with this response.*
: "What about you? I don't think I've seen a person like you before."

Posted by: Tarethen Wed May 03, 2006 1:49 am
Farain backed up a little, keeping one leg in the air before slowly placing it back down after the initial shock wore off. "Magic Creature? Never heard of them. I guess you could say the same for me since you don't know what I am. I'm a centaur, if you must know."
Farain gave the magic creature another look, "...and you float. The only other creatures I've seen float like that have been birdlings. How do you do it without wings? Or is this where the magic part comes in?"

Posted by: Rusty Wed May 03, 2006 1:58 am
*Ombligo's tentacle rubs against the top of his shell as his eyes look upwards.* : "I don't know...I don't really get tired from floating all the time, but when I use too many spells I get tired - so I don't know if it's magic or not."

Posted by: Aldur Wed May 03, 2006 10:07 am
At this point Kria is busy looking along all the shops, and giggling at the various pretty looking trinkets she could add to her collection. A glimpse of yellow in the horizon caught her attention and she hurried over to the stall. And pouted at the ridiculous prices.
The Catfolk sighed a little to herself and headed futher into the town...and saw an odd floating thing being accosted by a big centaur. Well, poked anyway. Kria walked over to them, and when she saw them up close let out a little squeal.
: Wheeee! You're so cute! Hey there lil guy...what's your name? Who do you belong to?

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Wed May 03, 2006 11:50 am
Sorel walked through the town, having decided to check on Ombligo. He found him hovering in a thoroughfare, surrounded by quite an eclectic group of people. A centaur, a half-dragon, and a catfolk were croweded around the lively magic creature. He called out, partly to spare Ombligo any further poking and prodding.
: "Having fun, Ombligo?"

Posted by: Aldur Wed May 03, 2006 11:55 am
Kria turned from Ombligo to Sorel. She ran over to the man, still squealing with glee. : Is he yours? Where'd you get him? Ohh...I want one! It's so cute looking. And the floating is so funny! The gleeful giddy catfolk girl did a little spin and squealed again, looking at the druid for a moment, and then back at Ombligo.
: Err...Sorry. Hehehe. So what brings you here?

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Wed May 03, 2006 12:08 pm
Sorel bowed slightly to Kria, the owl on his shoulder shifting slightly. : "I am called Sorel, and Ombligo is his own. We are here, I think, for the same reason you are."

Posted by: Aldur Wed May 03, 2006 12:26 pm
: Oh wow, you're here to make lots of money and start your own bangle empire? That means...we're rivals! I won't go easy on you just for being old! I shall rule the bangle world! Kria looked around and realised she was causing a scene and giggled again, loving the drama from perhaps being the centre of attention. She then frowned and glared at the man before her, a new rival in the bangle empire...

Posted by: Alpha Wed May 03, 2006 1:33 pm
Tanis then takes that opportune moment to catch up with Kria. : Kria, I doubt he wants to be a bangle emperor. I think he refers to our hiring by the merchant. He looks to Sorel. : Right? With that, his attention shifts to Ombligo. Fascinating, he thought. He inclines his head at the creature, but decides not to say anything in particular to it.

Posted by: Nightmare Wed May 03, 2006 5:59 pm
As noon aproached the streets were bustling with activity, and Gorrik decided to wander around the town, since he showed up late the previous night, and imidiately found himself an inn. The dwarf noted several intersting little shops and merchants, but one thing that caught his eye was a little child who looked to be 9 years old, dressed in dirty rags and very suspicious. The boy seemed to be paying close attention to the shops selling various forms of food. And the buy stopped next to a bakery. And quickly looked around, then proceeded to enter.
Gorrik followed him into the shop as he had a feeling the boy was up to no good. And he was right. The child waited for the baker to be paying attention to the other customers and was reaching out to grab a loaf of bread. But Gorrik placed his hand on the boys shoulder and whispered into his ear witha a dwarven accent "Ye best noh do tha' lad."
The boy turned around, and unexpectedly comes face to face with the stranger behind him. The deep voice threw him off into thinking it'd be a much taller man, but this one was short. But was by no means weak. It still looked like he could break the child in two. But there was a look of kindness in his eye.
Gorrik then took the loaf of bread and paid for it, all the while holding onto the child's shoulder making sure he wasn't going to go anywhere. Gorrik then took the boy outside and handed him the bread and 10 gold. "This righ' here... this is so ye dun haf te do tha' again for a long time ye see. Jus' don' spend it on things ye not be needin'. Do ye oonderstan' wha' I'm tellin' ye?" The orphan nodded. "Good, now be on yer way, an' if I see ye try an' steal from someone again ye won be as lucky."
The child then ran off and Gorrik smiled, and just hoped that the boy would be able to survive without stealing or doing any more wrong for a while to come.

Posted by: Kaihaku Wed May 03, 2006 7:16 pm
He watched the exchange between Gorrik and the young orphan silently. He might have been anyone. Nothing distinguished him from the crowds of the town. It was true that his garments were of a certain sort, not necessarily common but hardly out of place. From the brown cloak thrown over his shoulders, secured by a simple clasp, to the light coat of silver chain that hung over his tunic it was clear that he was an adventurer. Yet, perhaps there was one odd thing about him given his equipment, a silver shield hung loosely over his back but there was not a weapon of any sort to be seen on his personage. His eyes were blue and while not dull they were hardly striking. His hair was a dark amber, slightly disheveled in a pleasant manner. He might have been anyone as he stood there, watching the Paladin scold the young thief. He might have been but, as things were, he was the doctor.
The youth was nearly beyond sight when the doctor began to walk down the street once more. A slight frown appearing on his forehead as he passed through the crowds with ease. His eyes lighted on the strange assembly of creatures at one street corner, he noted them but did not approach. Instead he moved swiftly to the docks, where he paused looking out over the ocean. The wind was picking up and a storm did appear to be brewing out over the sea. His eyes grew distant and dull, withdrawn from the world around him as he stared out over the waters. He began to talk to himself in mumbled agitated whispers, focused more on the thoughts in his head than on what his senses were telling him.

Posted by: Wandering Dezorian Wed May 03, 2006 7:27 pm
Arbeiten also watched the dwarf's good deed. As the child ran off, and the dwarf stood looking after him, the half-giant approached from the side. Smiling calmly, the hermit neared the man and stood for a moment, also watching the boy. "Now there's something you usually only hear in stories, friend." he said. "I'd like to thank you for showing me that they haven't forgotten compassion in the bustle of the cities." Turning to look at the dwarf now, he extended a wide hand. "I'm called Arbeiten these days. And you are?"

Posted by: Tarethen Wed May 03, 2006 7:51 pm
Farain turned his attention to Kria and Tanis as they approached. He waved to them lightly, raising a brow a bit as Kria fawned over Ombligo. When Sorel called out, Farain turned towards him and frowned a little. "Sorry, I didn't mean to cause any sort of trouble for him... er... it?" He looked at Ombligo again, not sure what to classify it as. "Well, either way, I didn't mean to bother him."

Posted by: Aldur Wed May 03, 2006 8:11 pm
Kria turned around, looking at the centaur and walking up to him, began to giggle. She grinned at him, and frowned suddenly thinking of something. : Where you also hired by that merchant man?

Posted by: Tarethen Wed May 03, 2006 8:17 pm
Farain looked slightly confused at Kria approached him. "Merchant man? Hired? I'm afraid not... I came here looking for a boat to go meet someone. What's this about a merchant?"

Posted by: Rusty Wed May 03, 2006 8:29 pm
((Insert these responses in the according places, since Ombligo is not the type to remain unresponsive.))

QUOTE
: Wheeee! You're so cute! Hey there lil guy...what's your name? Who do you belong to?

: "My name's Ombligo and I don't belong to anyone! But since you're so pretty, I'll forgive you."
*Ombligo turns to Sorel, waving his tentacles excitedly.*
: "Yeah! There's already so many people I've met! They seem to like poking here, though. I guess it's the thing to do in Hassan."

QUOTE
: Oh wow, you're here to make lots of money and start your own bangle empire? That means...we're rivals! I won't go easy on you just for being old! I shall rule the bangle world!

: "What? We're not rivals! We're partners! We're banding together to stop the bad guys! I don't think this is a competition, anyway..."

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Wed May 03, 2006 8:31 pm
Sorel cocks his head at Kria, the ghost of a smile passing his face. He then turns to Tanis, and nods. : "You are correct." Farain's question caused the old man to frown. : "Ombligo is not an object. He is not 'it'. The Common Tongue doesn't have a word that fits him perfectly. It is a sad limitation of the language. It is simply more convenient to refer to Ombligo as male in Common than to use a separate language to identify him. Although, I tend to think Ombligo deserves a language all his own."

Posted by: Aldur Wed May 03, 2006 9:48 pm
Kria nods at the Centaur. And then freezes as her mind catches up with her feet. She quickly turns back to Ombligo smiling from ear to ear. "...Pretty? Awwwie! Thank you Ombligo." *Ombligo floats up and down - though one could not be certain, he just might be smiling.*
Sorel looks down at Ombligo with mock sternness.
"Not causing trouble, are we?"
: "Of course not, Sorel. I only stop trouble!"
Sorel beams.
"I am glad. You haven't seen Mahler about, have you?"
"No...I'm not really sure where he went off to. He's almost never late, though, so I don't think we need to worry about him."
"May I ask who Mahler is?"
"Mahler is a friend of Ombligo and of mine, who travels with us."
Kria frowned, was this Mahler someelse out to get money. A thought then occured to her, this merchant must be rich.
"Hey...Does this Derrik person have a bangle empire? He seems rather rich."
"What's a bangle empire???"
Tanis sighs in exasperation at Kria's question. She sticks her tongue out at him.
The owl on Sorel's shoulder hoots, glaring at Kria.
"I don't think a jewellery peddler would need to comission mercenaries."
"Oh. I guess you have a point there...are all old people so smart? Well, Tanis is smart too, and he's about as active as an ancient old crone so..."
Tanis shifts slightly.
"There's no need to put it like that. I just like studying."
Kria pouts at him, waving her arm in a somewhat threatening way.
"Study, Study, Study! If I didn't feed you...you'd forget to eat!"
Sorel grins, and says lightly,
"We old crones just have more time to think, that's all."
Tanis manages a smile.
"Probably." He didn't argue the case as she was likely correct.
Kria nodded in satisfaction, before turning back to Sorel.
"I didn't say you were an old crone...I just said you were old."
Sorel's owl flaps its wings, shrieking in anger. Sorel raises a hand to silence the bird before turning back to the catfolk.
"Have you two been together long?"
Kria frowns, and thinks about the question. Counting on her fingers a little.
"Just a few months. And Company is usually better than solitude...unless you're constantly studying. I don't understand why he needs to do that so often..."
Sorel shrugs.
"Some people are driven to learn. To read and think in private is the calling of a scholar. There are far too few like him in this world."
"See Kria? It is acceptable!"
Kria smirked, this was an old arguement, time for the checkmate...
"I suppose. I mean, If some people need to study to do magic rather have it...naturally."
*Ombligo bobs up and down at this.*
"I have magic!"
Sorel smiles broadly.
"Those born with magical talents are often sadly lacking in practical knowledge, which can be dangerous. There are some things best learned out of a book."
Tanis sighs again.
"Yes Kria. You and your natural magic. That only happens to be natural to you and nobody else."
"I can cast spells naturally, tooooo!!"
Sorel patted Ombligo's shell.
"It is not polite to brag."
Finding Ombligo much more interesting than the old arguement, Tanis asks
"Really? What sort?"
"I don't know if I should say."
*Ombligo says, looking at Sorel.*
Sorel smiles at Ombligo.
"It's alright. You can say what you wish. Just remember your manners."
"I can make lightning bolts!"
*Ombligo bursts out, happily.*
Tanis can't help but smile at the immense enthusiasm bursting from the Magic Creature.
"I see. Perhaps you could show me sometime. I havn't mastered that level of casting skill yet."
"But I can't use them unless enemies are around...So we'll just have to wait for the bad guys to show up."
Sorel nods, patting Ombligo again.
"He just needs to remember that merchants who forget to give him his change aren't enemies."
"Wowie...I thought it was like my stuff. Hey...Tanis. I wonder if we'll ever find someone like me?" She giggled at the thought, and frowned, it'd be trouble for her empire then...
*Ombligo's tentacle rubs against his shell.*
"That only happened one time..."
"Who knows Kria?" And he mumbles under his breath "I doubt it"
Sorel frowns.
"I don't think that man's hair will ever grow back, Ombligo. You must be mindful of your actions." He then looks at Kria. "Are you a sorceress?"
Kria blinked...and looked at Tanis.
"Taaanis...What am I again?"
Tanis sighs yet again. Though only slightly.
"You're a warlock Kria."
Kria nodded and stood proudly, puffing herself up a little.
"Yup! I'm a Warlock!"
"The way she casts and the spells she casts Are...different from anything I've seen before."
"I told you...I don't cast spells. I mean, I don't do any of that book stuff you do. They be...ummm...invocations. Yeah."
Sorel nods.
"How often can you cast these invocations?"
Kria grins.
"Umm...at will?"
Sorel raises his eyebrows.
"That's quite impressive. And you were born with this ability?"
"Yup! Aren't I just the best?" She giggled then frowned a little, realising this wasn't Tanis. "Aheh...sorry. I get carried away."

Posted by: Rusty Wed May 03, 2006 9:49 pm
"No need to apologize." Bozak eyes Ombligo "I'm sure hes used to it." "Ah...alright then. Tanis says I'm much too loud and obnoxious...but I think I'm just bubbly." *Ombligo pulls out his spell component pouch, playing with the various components inside. He looks over at Bozak, blinking.*
"What?"
Bozak raises his hands palm out "nothing, nothing at all." He smiles.
"Well Kria. You are most definately loud. How else would I have found you if that wasn't the case?"
Sorel whispers to Ombligo.
"When a person is bubbly it means they are loud and obnoxious but don't realize it."
"Are you saying he insulted me?"
*Ombligo asks curiously, looking over at Bozak.*
Sorel shook his head.
"I doubt he meant it like that."
"Okay!"
*Ombligo says, thinking no more on it.*
Kria pouted at Tanis, then sighed, looking around.
"So...don't we have to go see that Merchant?"
"Mahler is meeting us there, is he not, Ombligo?"
"Yep! We should probably head over there now. Maybe he's already there!"
"Where abouts exactly is it?"
"You mean you don't know Tanis?"
Sorel turns to the others, extending his staff in the direction they had to go.
"Down this road a bit, I think. Shall we?"
"No. I wouldn't have asked otherwise Kria."
"Centaur, you can come, too, if you want!"
"Um... My name is Farain. And, sure... I'll go."
"Well then, Let's go! Money and Bangles await! Hahahahaa!"
*Farain leaned his head towards the male catfolk that was with Kria, "Is she always like that?"
"Would someone please tell me what a bangle is???"
"This is a bangle!" Kria grins, kneeling slightly and stretching out her arm. "That golden bandy thing."
"I'm afraid so. It's trying, but you get used to it."
"I'd have gone insane if I were you, and I've only been around her for a few short minutes."
: Sorel walks out ahead of the group, leading the way, and singing a song to himself in a strange language.
"As I say, you get used to it. And her intentions are usually good."
Kria promptly turns away from Ombligo, and glares at the Centaur. Having heard the whispered words. She follows the Druid while muttering about the centaur.
"Heh. Looks like she heard you" Tanis says to Farain. "Don't worry, just give her a bangle sometime. She'll forgive you." With that, he motions to those walking away. "Shall we?"
Farain shut his mouth. His intention wasn't to try and offend anyone, he just wasn't used to someone with Kria's... personality. "I guess we better follow Sorel..."
Tanis offers Farain a smile of reassurance. And he sets off after the others.
"Does anyone know anything about this person we're suppose to see? What was his name...?"
"He's called Derrik Swiftjoke, very rich and...not that bad looking for a human."
Farain nodded, remembering something for a moment. "That name... sounds vaguely familiar..."
"You only say that Kria becuase he's not a Bangle rival for you."
"Well, he does have a bunch of shops. You've probably seen them before."
"Indeed, it's like he's the pathway to a glorious world for me, sparkling things everywhere...Hehehe! I can't wait!"
Farain shook his "No... I think it's something else." Farain suddenly remembered. "I have a letter..."

Posted by: Knight_019 Wed May 03, 2006 10:08 pm
: "Where is Ombligo? I must find him before something happens to him," Mahler thinks. *Mahler had spent the last half an hour searching his friend and travelling companion, Ombligo, but had as of yet been unable to find him. This was a new place to them, and without knowledge of what people are like here, Mahler was quite apprehensive about letting Ombligo go off on his own for a while. Mahler knew it was against his better judgment, but he had a hard time saying no to the magic creature. He was so childlike and curious, it brought a smile to his stone face.
Here he was, though. "I want to see the cool stuff in town!" Ombligo had said. "We'll have time before meeting with the guy!" he continued. It was almost time for their appointment, and now he was nowhere to be found......
... or was he?
Mahler picked up the sounds of a commotion down the street he was on. Looking ahead, he thought he saw the bobbing figure of the magic creatures. Ombligo's coloration is quite pronounced, and he thought he saw his orangish sheen, but it was a ways off. Mahler walked in that direction. Sure enough, there was a large crowd gathered around the magic creature. As soon as he confirmed it, Mahler began to plod along, heavily, gaining speed.*
: OMBLIIIIIIIIIIIIIGOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!
*Mahler barreled toward the crowd, determined to save his friend from the crowd around him. Closing in on the group, Mahler saw that what had been poking and prodding was now conversation, and Ombligo was smiling and giggling. Applying the brakes to his run by jamming his heels into the ground, Mahler skid violently toward the group, stopping just before them.*
: Ombligo, are you all right? Who are these people? Sorel, you found them, too?

Posted by: Rusty Wed May 03, 2006 10:52 pm
: "Don't worry, I'm fine! Most of these people are also joining that merchant's group to fight evil. That's...Bozak, Kria, Tanis, and Farain!" *Ombligo says as he points to each one. He turns to face Mahler again.* : "Hey Mahler, do you know if it's some sort of custom in Hassan to poke people?"

Posted by: Knight_019 Wed May 03, 2006 11:15 pm
*Mahler looks around at everyone a couple times, his eyes widened slightly.* : Oh... hi everyone. My name is Mahler. *Mahler puts his hand to his head and rubs it after Ombligo's question.* ((Knowledge: 1d20 + 2 = 16 + 2 = 18.)) : Ummm... I don't think so, Ombligo. Why?

Posted by: Rusty Wed May 03, 2006 11:32 pm
: "Oh. Well, I've just been getting poked a lot for some reason." *Ombligo says as his tentacles move in a shrugging manner.*

Posted by: Kaihaku Thu May 04, 2006 12:43 am
A heavy clomp, clomp with a distinct pneumatic whine announced the approach of a figure covered in a ragged brown cloak. "See anything?" a voice issued forth from within the hood. The doctor continues muttering to himself quietly, seemingly unaware of the figure behind him.
The cloaked one watches the doctor mutter then with a heavy sigh, reaches out a metal shod hand to tap him on the shoulder.
The doctor starts, glancing back with surprise, "Eh... Oh...when did you get here?"
"Two minutes, forty five seconds ago," the figure replies tonelessly.
The doctor chuckles wryly, "Right..." He runs a hand through his hair, then frowns, "Oh..." He looks passed the cloaked figure to the town beyond, "I think I might have ran into some of your competition..."
"Competition?" The figure questions.
"Yeah... A dwarf..." The doctor's voice lowers thoughtfully, "...judging from his holy symbol...follower of the light...full plate...waraxe." He shrugs suddenly indifferently, "You know the type." His voice suddenly becomes irate, "Would you blame a boy for stealing food? Hungry...possibly starving?" He crosses his arms, looking at the cloaked figure with annoyance, "Isn't it society's fault for not caring for the child?"
"There is a measure of fault on both sides. Though perhaps it was the fault of others that led to his state, it was his choice to steal," the cloaked figure says neutrally, "If you deny others the fact that they choose their path, you deny them choice. Then everything merely becomes cause and effect. You could no more blame the child for stealing than the Dark Dragon for burning the world."
The doctor snaps back, "Ridiculous. So a child should die rather than steal to survive?" He shakes his head, "That's absurd. There's a difference between a demon...or even an adult...and a youth."
"I never said that," the figure says, neutrally. "Stealing is better than dying. I would not blame him. But that doesn't change the fact that he did steal. You are correct though, in that the boy might not know better, though the others would. But my point was simply that choice is choice."
The doctor snorts, "You say that like stealing is...innately evil...or something..." He shakes his head, "Next you'll be telling me murder is a sin. Yet, somehow, when its endorsed by the state both are suddenly acceptable. Ridiculous." He sighs, "Nothing is innately wrong, intention defines morality."
"Did I? Stealing is acceptable under some circumstances, as is murder... Do keep in mind..." the figure stops as what appears to be an odd shudder passes over him, "The road to hell is paved with the best of intentions."
The doctor arches an eyebrow, "Is it?" He shrugs, "Maybe...but if that dwarf threatens another kid I'm going to give him some real good intentions." He sighs, looking towards the distant gathering of golem, centaur, catfolk, floating golden squid, and others. "I wonder what that group of freaks is doing over there..."
"Your bedside manner needs work, doctor." The figure replies drily.
The doctor looks back with amusement, "Bedside? This is my seaside manner..."
"Never become a sailor." The figure replies.
"Funny you should mention that..." The doctor chuckles, "I was born on a boat...of sorts...." He shakes his head, "So...remind me one more time...you're going to play the knight?"
"Why not? It's relatively close to what I was." The figure questions.
"I don't know... Don't you need...more... I don't know...personility?" The doctor wonders aloud, then frowns with mock understanding, "Oh...right..." He taps his forehead and winks at the figure, "I guess that fits the part.
"You're going to make this an interesting trip." The figure replies emotionlessly.
The doctor shrugs with a grin, "From what I know of our employer, it'll be interesting regardless... What I'll do is keep everyone...well...everyone except for the idiots...and maybe the ones who make me angry... Well... I'll keep the ones I like alive at least."
"Good to know we're in such reliable hands." The figure replies.
The doctor looks up at his tall companion with mock surprise, "Was that an attempt at humor? Nicely done...but be careful, with that kind of wit no one will believe you're a Paladin." A frown crosses his face, "...Paladins and Clerics..." He sighs, "I wonder what my competition will be like... Generally...clerics are fairly unwilling to hire themselves out to a merchant lord... Even less so to one like Derrik... But...but...every now and then you get one of the real nutcases...thinking they're on some epic quest for the divine..." He rolls his eyes, sighing heavily, "I'll have to work twice as hard to keep everyone alive if that's the case..." He pauses with a grin, "Erh... That is...I mean keep those I like alive..." Then he shakes his head, "Not that it matters to you. I can't do a thing for you...well, other than keep up the act."
"I said knight, not paladin." The figure corrects, neutrally, "Your own act is slipping if you wish to appear nonchalant."
"First, a Paladin is a Knight... How was I to know you'd pick one with more personility?" The doctor shrugs, "...and who said I was nonchalant? I was just making small talk." He looks down the coastline, "We'll call it destiny... Yes...that works nicely... You see..." He looks back at the figure, "I'm fated to be the greatest healer you'll see even in your long lifetime. Royalty...Nobility...even the Gods will seek me out. All I need is experience...and I won't get that by letting people die..." He smiles, "Now, idiots are bound to do something stupid and get themselves killed...that's just part of life. I can't do anything about that..." His smile deepens, "...yet...but watch out, armorboy. Stick around me and you're bound to be amazed."

Posted by: Arcdragnbreth Thu May 04, 2006 12:53 am
The smell of the sea was a wondrous thing; salty and heady, like a natural wine for the senses. Most men, whether they could stand to traverse the great waves of the ocean, nonetheless had admiration for the power that the water had. But to at least one, there was only nausea.
Graigus, though by no means a typical male of his kind, was nonetheless a dwarf, and thus shared the racial uneasiness which made most avoid sea travel if possible. The firm feel of the ground, now inured in their hearts from a lifetime underground, made most else seem to be a poor substitute; combined with the mass which all dwarves carried, the idea of falling and drowning was a distinct possibility most avoided like the plague.
Even so, the young dwarf had borne his suffering silently, even going so far as to help hold rigging in place when one of the sailors failed in his attempt to make a quick adjustment to the jib. Aside from short excursions to get fresh air, however, Graigus was content to stay in the bowels of the ship - the deepest part of the storeroom feeling the most like the warren he'd been born in.
WHat was necessary was necessary, he'd comforted himself, as he thought of the monastery he'd grown up in since the age of twelve. Long before that he and those around him had seen where his preferences lay, and they certainly wern't in the directon of battleaxes and heavy armor, nor the endless heat of the forge. Everything within Graigus seemed to rebel against the idea that he should spend his days inside the city, caring for his own people but leaving citizens of other areas to suffer, aidless...
It had been twenty - no, thirty - years since his first encounter with the mountain lion, deep in the heart of the rugged trails around which his home lay. Seeing one was of little consequence, and it's size indicated that it would likely think twice about attacking the dwarf unless very hungry; unfortunately for the pair of travelers which had become it's prey, that was the case. Both were human, and did not stand the same chance as Graigus did against the creature's claws; were it not for the intervention of a half-elf, it was likely that neither would have survived. Curious as to why the creature, kin to another race which kept to themselves when possible, risked his life, the young dwarf had recieved a simple answer - "I do not see the point in protecting only your people, when it is the other who truly need the assitance."
And from then, the feeling had grown; Graigus' parents soon realized that the life of a monk seemed to mesh more with their son's aspirations than the other traditional dwarven customs did, and so they agreed to let him stay there on the condition he would return to the warren periodically.
But the last time he returned, he found that things were not all well... a newly dug warren, placed in an area which had not been the most favored by the city's council, proved to be the den of worms. The creatures were slain, but the damage they had cause was sufficient to set back the city's plans to expand Kagnah's Anvil, the largest and thus most profitable forge in the city. Graigus' monastery donated their time, money and effort to speed up the process, but only so much could be done before the monks had to return. Since that time, Graigus wanted to have a good store of money, so that he could always afford to support his family.
And what a better way to do it, the dwarven monk thought, his footsteps carrying him ever closer to the town by the sea. Money for a rainy day, and the chance to do something useful, if what this Swiftjoke said is true. Not to mention the Master thinks i should spend some time abroad, learning more with which to expand my studies.
All these things were on Graigus Stonemead's mind, as he entered the port town to which he'd been summoned by the master merchant. Walking into Hassan, his staff in hand, all the dwarven monk could say was a handful of words.
"So this is Hassan..."

Posted by: Tarethen Thu May 04, 2006 12:58 am
Farain backed up as the golem came running out of reflex that he was going to be barrelled over. When the golem finally stopped, Farain let out a sigh of relief. "I almost thought you were going to run over someone there..." Farain nodded his head to the newcomer. "Nice to meet you Mahler. I'm Farain."

Posted by: Cyrus Thu May 04, 2006 4:07 am
[Placeholder until I can think of something.]

Posted by: Rusty Thu May 04, 2006 5:28 am
*Sorel and the group arrive at the meeting place.* Sorel looks around again, and says, "Are you here yet?" to the air. *Ombligo blinks.* Ombligo: "Do you think this is maybe some sort of prank??" Sorel sits on a nearby crate. "He'll make his entrance in due time."
Ombligo: "Well, I hope we don't have to wait long...I hate long waits."
Sorel: "Do you happen to know any Divination spells?"
Ombligo: "Me? Only a few...Why?"
"Don't bother," a hooded figure said, appearing from within a large crate. "He'll make his appearance when he's good and ready."
Sorel turns around, nonplussed, to face the newcomer. "You are... a representative?"
"If you want to call me a rep, you can," the figure said nonchalantly. "Who are you?"
Sorel clucks his tongue. "Names in their proper order."
"Age before beauty," the man said, his hood still covering his face. The man was obviously in his twenties, approaching the 6-foot mark in height and wearing a deep green cloak.
Sorel: "My idea of beauty may differ from yours, young man. At least do us the courtesy of removing the hood."
"I'd rather not; the sun's a bit bright," the mystery man said, his tone defiant.
Sorel smiles conciliatory. "Very well. I am Sorel."
Man: "And what, pray tell, have you come for, Sorel?"
Sorel: "I came because I felt I should."
"Interesting staff," the man continued, gesturing with a motion that continued to keep his features hidden. "Where did you get it?"
Ombligo: "He sure is nosy for someone that's not even willing to show his face."
"It was a... parting gift," Sorel says after a pause. He speaks to Ombligo without turning his head. "Manners."
*Ombligo folds his tentacles, pouting.* Ombligo: "Fine..."
Man: "Now, now...I'd imagine that a magical creature such as this would be curious. He can ask questions. Doesn't mean I'll answer," the hooded figure added.
Sorel: "That much is clear. I don't suppose you're willing to tell us your name yet?"
"I have many names. Which one do you want?" the man said, his grin apparent through is voice.
Sorel: "What do you want to be called while we work together?"
Man: "Are we working together? You still haven't told me what whim brought you here."
Sorel: "The oldest ones. Adventure, knowledge, and the chance to do something worthwhile."
Man: "I'm going to give you some advice, Sorel. Don't ever go into business with someone you haven't tested."
Sorel raises an eyebrow. "Have you tested me, then? Or do you intend to?"
Gail, seeing the huge group of people out along the warehouse, quirks an eyebrow before taking out the note again. Looks like they're as good a bet as any. Sighing, she begins to move to the group casually, though the heavy clack of her armor made even her nervous. She'd wished the employer just put the location on the letter. It would've made this job so much easier...
Bozaku raises an eyebrow.
"You've passed the hardness test," the man said."But the crucible is the best judge, I've heard."
"You heard right," Sorel says, "The storyweavers of Tristan could not have put it better."
"Hassan's a long way from Tristan," the hooded figure said. "What do you do that makes traveling so desirable, Sorel?"
Sorel: "I age."
"A sense of humor... I like that," the mystery man said, chuckling.
"Have you been to Tristan?" the old man asks.
"I've been to many places," he replied, before turning to the floating figure. "And what is your name, Magical Creature?"
Ombligo: "Well...At least you know what I am..." *Ombligo floats in a circle around the man before responding.* Ombligo: "My name's Ombligo! Nice to meet you!" *He extends a long tentacle.*
Sorel's owl turns its head 180 degrees and sights Gail. The bird leaps off the old man's shoulder and glides over to her.
Man: "I'd put that away now, if I were you," the figure said, threateningly. "In the state this world's in, you're as likely to get a knife as a handshake."
Ombligo: "...Sorel, I'm not going to mind my manners if this brute keeps acting like that! Hmph!" *Ombligo turns, floating back towards Mahler.*
Man: "Now, then, Sorel... do you like logic puzzles?"
Gail stops, watching the owl fly towards her before extending an gauntleted arm for the creature to land on, if it so chose to.
Sorel's eyes flash. "Puzzles kept me sane on rainy days as a child. Why do you ask?"
Meanwhile, the owl lands on Gail's arm, hooting softly. The birds head twitches in the direction of the gathered party, beckoning.
"I happen to like them myself," the mystery man said. "Answer these three questions for me. How do you feel about the gods? How do you feel about magic? How do you feel about nature?"
Sorel sits a long time without answering. Finally, he says. "I respect the gods, and the good they represent. I admire magic, and the power it represents. I love and fear nature, for it is everything and I am it."
The paladin looks toward the party before quirking a silver eyebrow at the bird. It's like it reads my mind...Deciding she chose right, she strokes the cheek before marching off, keeping her arm evenly leveled to keep from spooking the intelligent creature. "I believe this one's with you?" she asks the old man, holding up the arm occupied by the owl.
Man: "Mmm...I'm going to tell you what I've observed, Sorel."
Sorel raises a hand to silence the newcomer.
Gail looks to the man, then to the hooded stranger before moving back slightly, removing herself from the conversation she had failed to notice.
Man: "You are a spellcaster, no?"
Sorel: "I am, if the need calls for it."
Bozaku places his clawed hand onto the paladins shoulder and leads her to the side, shaking his head in silence. "Now is a bad time."
Man: "Heh... Let me explain. I see few carrying staves aside from monks and spellcasters; the fact that you show a preference for nature over the gods or magic is too partial for a monk. Furthermore, the three major schools of spellcasting are that of the wizard, the cleric and the druid."
"I've gathered," she whispered back, watching the exchange closely.
Man: "The same partiality which excludes you from the status of monk also means you fall into the category of those who respect nature. I have been a hunter, among other things, and I have learned the hard way that nature is worthy of respect. As such, you have mine."
*Ombligo floats over to Gail.* Ombligo: "Yeah, that's Sorel's owl." *Ombligo floats towards Sorel, keeping a watchful eye on the rather hostile man in the hood.*
"You are all here because of Swiftjoke's request, though I see by your numbers some are missing," the man continued. "I have every intention of not dying in the process of what we will be trying to do. That is why I've stood here for this long, mincing words."
"I will not work with those I have not tried, at least partially; it's a good way to end up dead," he said, raising his hood.
The cloaked speaker is a young man in his twenties, with flaming orange hair and chartreuse eyes that seem to peer into your soul. "You can call me Dam Dicem."
A heavy clomping can be heard, shortly after which a figure covered in a ragged cloak enters the warehouse. "This would be the Swiftjoke party, would it not?"
Sorel stands and extends his hand towards Dam. "A knife or a handshake, then?"
Ombligo: "Get back, Sorel! We can't trust this jerk!"
"Handshake; I haven't picked up a blackjack I like yet," the man said.
: "And as for you, Ombligo, while you may not approve of my methods, you cannot deny that I'm telling the truth."
Ombligo: "Sure, there might be some bad guys out there that would great me with a knife instead of their hand, but that doesn't mean my allies should!"
"I didn't stab you, Ombligo. But would you like me to?" Dam Dicem said, grinning. His face turning serious, he continued. "I don't have friends; I have allies."
*Ombligo floats back towards Mahler, glaring at Dicem.* ((Intimidate >.>))
((Intimidate: 13 + 9 = 22. Arc passed.))
Sorel turns to Ombligo. "If you're still concerned tonight, we will discuss it then. In the meantime, I must ask you to extend some small civility to this man."
((Arc tries a counter intimidate of a total of 10. I pass, too.))
Dam Dicem tries to return the favor, but ends up only laughing. "Nice try... nice try."
*Ombligo acknowledges Sorel's words, but keeps looking angry at Dicem nonetheless.*
Bozaku eyes the shabbily cloaked figure.
"I'm sorry, but now that most of you are here I can take my leave for a moment," Dam Dicem said, his voice serious. "I have business to attend to; meet me by the town gates in a half hour, once Swiftjoke's told you of the quest for Max." Dicem leaves.
Sorel walks slowly toward the ragged figure. "There's quite a bit of magic under that ruddy cloak, stranger. I don't suppose you're Mr. Swiftjoke?"
Ragged figure: "It's only a few odds and ends. No, I am not he."
Gail, though detecting no evil in the men, feels a weight ease off her as Dicem attends to his business.
Sorel: "I don't suppose you'd be more inclined to share your name or your face than Mr. Dicem was?"
Bozaku: Ah, then who might you be, sir?
Ragged figure: "Gilliam will do. There's one other coming here, but he's taking his time."
Sorel: "I, uh... don't suppose he's a healer? If we're to undertake an epic quest for a lost hero, we're going to need a dedicated medic."
*Ombligo waves at the newcomer from behind Mahler.* Ombligo: "Hi, Gilliam! My name's Ombligo!"
Bozaku perks. "A lost hero?"
Gilliam: "He is, actually. He calls himself the Doctor."
Bozaku: "Tell me of this."
"Greetings," Gilliam nods to Ombligo.
"I'm sorry, sir, but...could you remove your hood," Gail asks, a stern look on her face. "Your associate made it crystal clear we should keep our guard up."
A metal hand lowers the hood, revealing what appears to be a stylized helmet.
Gilliam: "My apologies, but I will not remove the armor. Keeping the guard up and all."
"Of course. I wouldn't ask you to do so," Gail says, her fears eased slightly, yet still suspicious of these employers. Turning to Sorel, she asks, "Will you be taking your friend back now?"
Sorel is startled; he hadn't been aware the owl had left his shoulder. "Come, Lunauga." he says, the owl hopping from Gail's arm to Sorel's staff.
Sorel: "So, Gilliam, what can you tell us of Mr. Swiftjoke and of this quest?"
Gilliam: "Not much. I just know he's paying too well to pass this up."
Sorel: "What's your field of expertise. With all that armor, I'm assuming you have some heavy combat training?"
"Yes. If you have problems with a hard hitter, I'll take him out for you," Gilliam pauses. "I particular relish the destruction of demons and undead, expect me to pass up combat with other foes if I find them present."
Sorel: "Are you a religious man?"
Gilliam: "Not particularly."
Sorel: "Why the great fervor to slay evil, then?"
Gilliam: "It's something that needs doing."
"I'm hard pressed to argue with that," Sorel says. "I do wish Mr. Swiftjoke would show up, or show himself."
Ombligo: "If he's anything like that Dicem guy..." *Ombligo shivers at the thought.*

Posted by: Arcdragnbreth Thu May 04, 2006 6:51 am
((READ THIS NOW. ALL OF IT. I'm hearing complaints about chat rp's again. So, here's how we do it. My hours are generally from 10 PM - Midnight EST. If at any point I need to do something important involving Dam Dicem, that is the time at which it'll occur. I have no control over when others decide to do group rp's, but I want times of availability in my inbox as soon as possible. And I want it as a day by day breakdown for all hours that you are regularly available. Including the two players who have not yet completed their character sheets, we have 16 players; 12 is going to be enough for an active rp session if need be, and if I can't get that many I'll pick the time I have the most.
Specify your timezone in your post; you do not need to convert your time to EST if EST isn't your timezone. And no, you're not doing me a favor if you convert it, so don't.
Thank you.))

Posted by: Aldur Thu May 04, 2006 9:01 am
((As for me I'm in the UK. I don't which time that is so you figure it out. I'm free from around 5pm my time till around 10pm my time. Except on Saturday, where I'm free from around 9pm till 3am.)) : Like...what really odd people. This seems like a fun group at least...

Posted by: Kaihaku Thu May 04, 2006 1:17 pm
((This is a game, I'm not going to parcel my day away to it. That said, I don't mind missing out on chat rps, I'll take part when I can and when I can't I don't whine about. On a side note, with my impending graduation I won't have the same internet access that I enjoy now... My participation will take a dive. ))
His face calm, a young man walks into the werehouse slowly. He looks around the assembled group and smiles lightly, his voice gentle and low, "Hello friends... I am Doctor Coventry." He comes to a halt, "...as potential charges of mine, I am eager to learn what I can of each of you." He frowns suddenly, looking at Ombligo, "What an interesting creature..." He tilts his head curiously.

Posted by: Aldur Thu May 04, 2006 3:33 pm
: "Like...hey. So, you're the healy guy? I'm Kria. I blast things." The Catgirl smiled at him and grinned. But then, she was always smiling. Wandering around in a world in the clouds does that to a gal.

Posted by: Nightmare Thu May 04, 2006 4:19 pm

QUOTE (Wandering Dezorian @ Wed May 03, 2006 7:27 pm)
"Now there's something you usually only hear in stories, friend." he said. "I'd like to thank you for showing me that they haven't forgotten compassion in the bustle of the cities." Turning to look at the dwarf now, he extended a wide hand. "I'm called Arbeiten these days. And you are?"

The dwarf turns, cranes his neck upwards to look at the stranger and replies "Ah, I thank ye fer tha kind words Arbei'en. As fer my name, I'm Gorrik, son of Gillum, paladin of The Light. And I'm pleased te meet ye." Gorrik shakes the half-giants hand firmly and continues "So, wha' brings ye te Hassan? If ye don' mind me askin' tha' is."

Posted by: Arcdragnbreth Thu May 04, 2006 4:23 pm
((I'm well aware this is just a game, Kai, but if I can find an hour-long slot that works for most I'll get it, hopefully three such slots per week; I'm not asking you to dedicate your life to that time, because I know I can't do that. On another note, if you're like Kai and don't really care about getting in on the chat rp, let me know as well.))
Great... he left a time but no specific location. Means I'm going to have to run around Hassan for who knows how long, Graigus thought, noting the time of day. Deciding that he'd have the best luck finding the merchant inside the nearest tavern. Stepping in, he carefully surveyed the scene, taking in all the bar's patrons.
((Spot: 1d20 + 1 (ranks) + 3 (wis) = 24
Listen: 1d20 + 1 (ranks) + 3 (wis) = 20))
His senses, no longer muddled by the sight of foam or the sound of crashing waves, picked up details on his environs like a sponge. There were twenty-four men present, most talking quietly amongst each other or staring into their drinks; it was still too early for the drunken songs and fights he'd seen at other establishments.
Of course, that's nothing I can't handle, he reminded himself, proceeding to the bartender.
"Do you know of any meetings which are supposed to be taking place now?" he said, standing to the side of a man in a leaf-green cloak conversing with another man.
((Bluff: 1d20 + 8 (ranks) + 1 (cha) = 23))
"Ahh... so you're the monk they sen to escort me to the shrine. Come, let's go meet the rest," the hooded figure said, nodding slightly.
"Yes, of course... I'm sorry I'm late," Graigus said, gesturing to the door. "Shall we?"
"Please," the mysterious man said, exiting first and leading the dwarven monk to the side of the tavern.
"Why did you really want to speak to me?" Graigus asked, recieving no immediate response. Then, the mysterious man said simply "I'm a representative of your employer. You failed to meet the deadline... and your services are no longer necessary."
((Bluff: 1d20 + 8 (ranks) + 1 (cha) = 26
Sense Motive: 1d20 + 1 (ranksl) + 3 (cha) = 19))
"But... wait... I... it just turned five," Graigus stammered, confused. The figure raised a hand, silencing the monk, then withdrew his hood.
"Do the initials D.S. represent your employer?"
"Of course; you know that! But why-"
"Do you always leave taverns when strange men tell you to? I'd hope not," the orange-haired man said. "Just be glad I'm not an enemy. You can call me Dam Dicem; my services were also sought after by Mr. Swiftjoke."
"But... then... why the deception? If you knew I was here for that, there was no need to lie," Graigus said.
"I do things a bit differently," the green-cloaked youth commented dryly. "I couldn't confirm who you were in the tavern, not without arousing suspicion or revealing more information in public than I'd like to. Now head to the shipping yard; you will find a number of our allies gathered there, waiting on Mr. Swiftjoke. As I told them, meet me at the town gates in a half hour, provided you've already met with Swiftjoke. I have some matters to attend to."
"I see," Graigus said, nodding. "Wait... if you're so paranoid, why haven't you asked for my name?"
"Because," Dam said in dwarven, "I haven't made every member of this group give me their name. No fair to do it only to you."
And with that Dicem disappeared, moving into the streets of Hassan with no more speech. Shaking his head, Graigus made his way to the place where the rest of the group had assembled.

Posted by: Alpha Thu May 04, 2006 4:25 pm
((I'm UK also, so that's GMT. I'm usually around anytime from 4:30 to 11:30 my time during the week, though bear in mind I have important exams coming up soon, so I'll need to spend some of that time to either homework or revision. Weekends I probably won't be around as much. I work saturdays and I have a social life where the evenings are concerned. I should be around for the early evenings though Fri/Sat. As for sundays, I should be around most of the day.))
Tanis turns around as the newcomer enters.
: Hello Doctor Coventry. Mine name's Tanis. I'm a warmage.
Tanis motions to Kria.
: More specifically, Kria is a warlock.

Posted by: Kaihaku Thu May 04, 2006 7:06 pm
The doctor looks at Kria objectively for a moment, "...fur..." Then he frowns, speaking matter of factly, "It's too poofy, makes you look fat." He turns to Tanis at this, nodding with a gentle smile, "Warlock and Warmage? Interesting combination."

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Thu May 04, 2006 8:48 pm
((I'm out by 11 for the next week or so because of AP exams, but after that I'm open.)) Sorel approaches the doctor, leaning heavily on his staff as he walks. His face is blank as he studies the man's face, before giving a curt nod of the head.
: "Doctor."

Posted by: Aldur Thu May 04, 2006 11:13 pm
"...Wow. Even I'm not that Blunt." Kria blinked, the comment taking her completely off guard. For once she was rendered speechless.

Posted by: Kaihaku Thu May 04, 2006 11:59 pm
The doctor pauses, looking at Kria intently, "What? It's blunt to state that a Warmage and Warlock are interesting companions?"

Posted by: Arcdragnbreth Fri May 05, 2006 12:07 am
"I guess that means you guys are the ones I'll be working with," Graigus said, sighing as he walked nearer to the group. "I take it you've all met Mr. Dicem already, as well?"

Posted by: Kaihaku Fri May 05, 2006 1:13 am
The Doctor turns to the newcomer, a curious smile on his face, "Mister Dicem?" He glances around the group with a frown, "Whose that?"

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Fri May 05, 2006 1:33 am
Sorel inclines his head towards, the dwarf, a gesture of greeting and respect. : "We have. I am Sorel. If you will attend, our employer will show himself soon."

Posted by: Wandering Dezorian Fri May 05, 2006 2:20 am

QUOTE (Nightmare @ Thu May 04, 2006 10:19 am)
The dwarf turns, cranes his neck upwards to look at the stranger and replies "Ah, I thank ye fer tha kind words Arbei'en. As fer my name, I'm Gorrik, son of Gillum, paladin of The Light. And I'm pleased te meet ye." Gorrik shakes the half-giants hand firmly and continues "So, wha' brings ye te Hassan? If ye don' mind me askin' tha' is."

"Not in the least." Arbeiten says, still smiling. "Truth to tell, I'm not entirely sure myself. I've got the feeling something's about to happen, and the feeling I should be here." Shrugging as if it didn't matter, he adds meditatively, "I've learned to listen a bit to those sorts of feelings."
"And you, friend? It's been a while since I looked at a map, but it strikes me the nearest dwarven towns are far from here." The half-giant looks confused for a moment, and adds, "Unless the humans and the dwarves have taken to mingling since I was gone."
((I'm unavailable for chats, but if there's an important one I can usually sign on for a bit. Sorry, but I'm graduating myself. Free time seems a bit more scarce, at least until I get my feet under me.))

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Fri May 05, 2006 2:34 am
Sorel answers the doctor in passing, as he returns to the crate to sit and to wait. : "Dam Dicem is a representative of Mr. Swiftjoke's. I believe he might have been hired to train or brief or perhaps even lead us."

Posted by: Arcdragnbreth Fri May 05, 2006 3:08 am
"Yes... Dam Dicem, and a rather... unsavory character, if I can make such an assumption," Graigus said, shaking his head before extending a hand. "But enough of that... I'm Graigus Stonemead. Nice to meet you all."

Posted by: Rusty Fri May 05, 2006 3:09 am
*Ombligo grows worried, and agitated, at Sorel's suggestion.* : "Him?! He'd make a terrible leader! I don't know about you, but he makes me uneasy. You can't have a leader you can't trust!" *Ombligo floats over to the dwarf, shaking Graigus's hand with his tentacle - it feels slightly cool and firm like leather.*
: "Nice to meet you! Ombligo, at your service!"
*Ombligo says, with a salute.*

Posted by: Nightmare Fri May 05, 2006 7:27 am
Gorrik smirks slightly at the comment made. "Heh, well I doubt one would call i' minglin' with humans. Bu' I have no quarrels wi' them if they have none with myself. Bu' I am here Hassan, because an opportunity 'as presentend i'self te me. Some merchant by the name o' Swif'joke requires some aid. An' I intend on given it. Which remin's me, I need te be goion' if I'm te be involved."

Posted by: Aldur Fri May 05, 2006 7:54 am
"I meant the fat comment Doctor. And Like, I'll not take offense because...pissing off the healer is never a good thig...ya know?"

Posted by: Alpha Fri May 05, 2006 10:00 am
Tanis smiles at the exchange between the doctor and Kria. : Well Kria, at least he was honest with you, instead of lying about it. Then he adds, almost as an afterthought: : Perhaps it's your armour that's doing it?

Posted by: Aldur Fri May 05, 2006 10:09 am
: "Now you I do not take to take that from! Me? Fat! Ha! Compared to you that time you didn't eat for about two days and ate like the world was ending!"

Posted by: Alpha Fri May 05, 2006 10:30 am
Tanis replies quite feebly. : Yes well, it was a good book. Collection of books, rather. He sighed again. He wished he could make decent comebacks to Kria remarks sometimes.

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Fri May 05, 2006 12:05 pm
: "You are uneasy, Ombligo, because in Mr. Dicem's effort to make a particular impression upon us he came across as... less personable than he may actually be. It's generally bad to fix your impression of a man upon first glance, Ombligo, because so many people see fit to layer themselves in dishonesty and bravado, wearing it like a cloak keeps them out of the cold. I am not certain leadership is the role intended for Dam, but his appearance is far too... scripted, too coincidental for him not to have some significance.
: "Should Mr. Swiftjoke decide that Dam Dicem is to lead us, we should at least extend him the benefit of the doubt, and give him the opportunity and the cooperation to try. Should he fail, we would go from there."
Sorel takes Ombligo's tentacles in his hands, staring intently into his face. After a moment he says,
: "You are... in many ways still a child. Your jubilance, your curiousity, your charm, and even your petulance suggest an innocence that, if you lose it, can't be gotten back. I fear that what we are about to embark upon may take some of that from you, and I beg you, hold onto it as long as you can. Don't cloud your mind with suspicion of strangers. You are better than that. Purer than that."

Posted by: Kaihaku Fri May 05, 2006 12:20 pm
The doctor arches an eyebrow, looking at Kria intently, "How very odd... You really do seem to be quite unlike any girl I've met before." He shrugs, "Must be a culutural divide, catfolk are so very different from other races." He pauses, continuing kindly, "Please do note, Puss, that I did not make the claim you were fat, merely that your poofy fur makes you appear so."

Posted by: Arcdragnbreth Fri May 05, 2006 1:45 pm
"Yeah..." I don't know... first impressions aren't always misleading, the dwarf thought. Even if it's all just an act, what about him needs to be hidden from the rest of us?

Posted by: Wandering Dezorian Fri May 05, 2006 2:52 pm
At that, Arbeiten chuckles, his smile growing even broader. "The Goddess works in mysterious ways, it seems. I am to be one of your companions- The feelings I mentioned were calling me to this task." The half-giant looks around curiously for a moment, then spots what he was looking for. "We've still got a bit of time left before Swiftjoke is ready for us, I believe. What would you say to a flagon of ale? I'll cover the first round."

Posted by: Nightmare Fri May 05, 2006 4:08 pm
"Well..." Gorrik looked around while making up his mind "Alright I suppose thar is still time for a drink." The dwarf proceded to chuckle heartily.

Posted by: Rusty Fri May 05, 2006 9:14 pm
*Ombligo's eyes looking up, as he thinks, then his eyes look at Sorel.* : "Well...Okay. I guess he's supposed to be one of the good guys if he's joining in the fight against the bad guys. But if he messes up or does something wrong, I won't hold back from punishing him! After all, what good is 'good' if it's not being good?"
*Ombligo says cheerfully - most likely smiling.*

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Fri May 05, 2006 10:01 pm
Sorel purses his lips, thinking. : "You can't just punish... Ombligo, you can't demand perfection of someone. We're all imperfect. We all make mistakes. You wouldn't like it if you were punished every time you did something wrong accidentally or because you made a mistake. 'Do unto others as you would have them do onto you.' That's called the Golden Rule, Ombligo. Only in offering respect and understanding can you recieve it from others. Do you understand?"

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Fri May 05, 2006 10:05 pm
"Unbelievable. It's fifteen minutes after the time, and some people still aren't here..." a brown haired man in a duster coat sighs. You don't recall seeing him enter, but suddenly he is there, off to the corner of the warehouse. "What am I paying you people for, honestly?"

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Fri May 05, 2006 10:22 pm
Sorel lets go of Ombligo, promising to continue this discussion later. He turns, approaching the mysterious man, appearing to glide rather than walk. Indeed, his manner and countenance seem to radiate with an inner grace and resolve. He bows to the man before speaking.
((Diplomacy 32))
: "Mr. Swiftjoke, I presume?"

Posted by: Alpha Fri May 05, 2006 10:23 pm
Tanis turns around. : I don't know what you're paying us for. Yet. But I'm guessing you're Mr.Swiftjoke?

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Fri May 05, 2006 10:31 pm
"Indeed, I am," Derrik says with a bow. "It WAS going to be a secret, but since Dam blabbed about it, you're being hired to check out a few locations and see if you can't find the hero Max. It's been confirmed that he's alive. Distasteful as it may seem, Dicem will be your leader... at the very least until he dies or one of you proves better. Now, before I reveal any relevant information, you need to decide right now if you want in or not. The pay will be five thousand gold pieces up front, fifteen thousand after you find him and notify me. You have five minutes to decide."

Posted by: Rusty Fri May 05, 2006 10:35 pm
*Ombligo's already very large eyes become much, much larger. Five thousand gold up front...wow! I don't know who this Max guy is, or why Derrik's looking for him, but that's a lot of money!* : "I'm IN!" *Ombligo says without moment's hesitation, very excited.*

Posted by: Alpha Fri May 05, 2006 10:35 pm
: I will take part in this, of course. I don't want to have travelled here nothing. Plus, it'll likely be more interesting that the aimless wondering I've been doing recently.

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Fri May 05, 2006 10:38 pm
Sorel stands tall, inclining his head in a nod. : "You can count on my support."

Posted by: Knight_019 Fri May 05, 2006 11:05 pm
*The sound of stone grinding accompanies Mahler crossing his arms. With a stern nod, Mahler shows his agreement. After all, if Ombligo is going, he must, too.* : I'm in.

Posted by: Critical Mass Fri May 05, 2006 11:23 pm
*The heavy clicking of talons upon stone can be heard as a winged figure enters the warehouse and advances towards the group. The birdman is abnormally tall, almost seven feet in height, with rough brown and grey feathers covering his body. "Gaunt" would almost be an adequate term to describe him if not for the whipcord-tight muscles covering his arms and chest. His long arms end in a pair of wicked-looking talons, and something about the way he carries himself makes it apparent that he is used to using them, and not just for eating icecream. The birdman stops a few feet from the group and studies each in turn, a sense of untamed primal fury just visible under the thin veneer of civility in his bloodshot eyes.*
"Which of you is Swiftjoke?"

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Fri May 05, 2006 11:29 pm
Sorel gestures to the man in the duster.

Posted by: DragonmasterDon1 Sat May 06, 2006 12:08 am
((Roll: 15 + 17 = 32 Move Silently)) He was running horribly late and he knew it. It couldn't be helped, he was lost, he was caught up by a homeless man, he was stopped by the local guard to inspect his sash. You kid yourself. Just walk in quietly and nonchalantly like you're supposed to be there. You're supposed to be there, dummy.
And so "Langston" did. With a friendly smile on his face one of the ratfolk walked meekly into the room, hoping to draw little notice. As he did so the whiskers on his face twitched curiously as he looked around, feeling surprisingly inept amongst all the strangers in the room. Perhaps because his clothing was so simple, a drabbly colored tunic of pale green, it's color faded from repeated wearing, and dark pants with a small tear in the rear for his tail. Broderbund, his rapier, dangled softly at his side.
The wise...the strong...and him. Whatever the request he already felt out of place, but confidence (perhaps misplaced) raced through his veins as he looked at those gathered. To be accepted into their company for whatever reason was some sort of compliment to him, or so it felt at least.

Posted by: Cyrus Sat May 06, 2006 12:18 am
Max...the legendary hero of the Shining Force? But...why now? He disappeared before I was born, how would something suface now? Then again, he wouldn't gather so many of us if he didn't have information. That, and it seems a worthy cause. I wonder what he's not telling us...the paladin ponders as she answers Swiftjoke's inquiry. "You don't even have to ask, sir; If I wasn't prepared, I wouldn't have come."

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Sat May 06, 2006 12:38 am
((Listen 32)) Sorel's ears catch the feather-light patter of feet of an accomplished sneak. The old man turns and sees Langston. He stares at the rat-man intently, green eyes burning. After a long moment Sorel gestures again to Derrik. : "You're here about the job, I assume. You want to speak with him."

Posted by: Aldur Sat May 06, 2006 12:45 am
OOC: Dr. Coventry I'm going to assume has bad eyesight. Even though it's true I didn't give Kria a great body description it's somewhat obvious her fur is thin. And not puffy. Do pay attention. Tanis is the one with the puffy fur. Avvie wise anyway.
: "Like, I'm in. And after all, the only way for me to get stronger is to like blast things anyway. And hey...I don't really look fat do I?"

Posted by: DragonmasterDon1 Sat May 06, 2006 12:46 am
A kind old man, or so at least it seemed, caught Langston in his path. His whiskers twitched again as he continued to grin. "Right, right, the job," he spoke softly, his high-pitched voice indicating faint surprise at his detection. He turned to Derrik "Sorry 'bout the delay, a homeless guard stopped to tell me I was...lost."
Without missing a beat, he gave an extravagant bow. "Didn't mean to crash the party like that; please forgive me," he said, still grinning. "Go on, go on, like I didn't interrupt or anything, I insist."

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Sat May 06, 2006 12:54 am
Sorel's face radiates warmth at Langston before he turns back and speaks to Kria. : "Not really, no. But there will be time for vanity later."

Posted by: Lord Oddeye Sat May 06, 2006 1:01 am
((I'm usually connected to AIM most of the day(GMT +01). And since my schoolyear is ending soon I should be able to take part to most of the RP chats whenever they're planned)) Morgan left the ship and walked on the harbor. Traveling from Rune to Parmecia was longer than he expected but he knew that doing so was safer for him, as staying on his homeland after what was happened could have been too risky.
But this wasn't the main reason which brought him to Hassan : he had to meet someone there. He searched for the letter in his bag to take another look at it. The way he had obtained it from the messenger was still unclear to his mind.
How did the messenger know that he was in Rindo at this moment? He seldom came to this town before, and he merely returned there to escape his threatened home.
And more important, why would someone like Derik Swiftjoke need the services of a person like him? So many mercenaries were up to this job.
But still he was chosen, him, a simple wizard, moreover studient in prohibited magics, who had been fired from Manarina because of a shameful plot against him.
Letting these sad thought aside, he adjusted his hood over his head and made his way into town as quick as he could, aware of his lateness. Hopefully, the meeting area was indicated in the message.

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Sat May 06, 2006 1:10 am
While Sorel and the others banter, Lunauga decides to catch up on his rest. The owl flies silently off the old man's shoulder, and settles in a rafter of the warehouse. The bird's silver eyes glint in the shadow before they close, and his chest begins to rise and fall in gentle rhythm, Lunauga having fallen instantly asleep.

Posted by: Kaihaku Sat May 06, 2006 1:31 am
((You should assume no such thing. You failed to roll a sense motive at the time which means that the motivation behind his statement is unknown to Kria. She might assume that the Doctor has poor eyesight but I would recommend that you make no such assumption. On another somewhat related point, what is regarded as poofy and what is not is a matter of opinion for the character in question.))
The doctor shakes his head with a smile, "Such an eager group..." His eyes narrow as he nods to the merchant lord, "Good to see once again, Lord of Gold." He tilts his head to the side, "Hmmmm.... Interesting terms..." He abruptly begins speaking in another tongue, one ancient and sacred. After another moment of speaking, a grin crosses his face.
"I am well aware of that," Derrik says. "Of course you can keep what you find."
The Doctor nods, continuing to speak in the same holy tongue, the smile on his face growing.
Derrik replies, "That is your choice. I pay a flat sum of the twenty thousand. Combined with your looting rights, your expenses should be well in hand."
The doctor arches an eyebrow and replies in the same language.
"Mr. Coventry..." Swiftjoke says with a smile. "When was it you started caring about contracts and law?"
Coventry speaks in the holy tongue drily, then shakes his head continuing calmly.
"I wasn't aware you graduated from a medical school," Derrik says, his grin widening. "In any case, the deal is simple. I pay you 5,000 now to start looking. Then 15K if you find him. Of course your role will be the medic."
Coventary shrugs, speaking in common once more, "If such is the case, then I'll feel free to charge for anything costly..." He frowns curiously, "On another note... Dice em? Is the leader of this expedition a cook?"
"Possibly. He seems to have many skills you wouldn't expect, which is why he's included." Derrik answers.
The doctor nods, "I do hope so... Trail food is often so bland."

Posted by: Dark Maiden Sat May 06, 2006 2:59 am
"Oh no, don't tell me I'm late..." Kayla shakes her head and moves hurriedly towards the warehouse. She is rather tall for a woman, but slender as well. A black cloak rests over her shoulders with the hood pulled over her face. The cloak ends at the bottom of her thighs. As she nears the warehouse, the young tiefling sneaks in quietly to avoid attracting attention. Kayla seems to be quite fond of black, for she is wearing black pants, boots, gloves, and a sleeveless shirt of the same color. Over the shirt rests another shirt made of mithril links that are chained together to form the armor. Kayla gently rests her leather gloved hand on her right forearm.
[Move Silently: 16 + 13 = 29]

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Sat May 06, 2006 3:31 am
((Listen 19 + 14 = 33. Sorel's ears are on fire tonight.)) Again, Sorel hears the soft steps of one who does not wish to be heard. He looks past Kria, and needs study the young girl for but a moment to deem her no danger. He extends his hands outward, one toward Kayla, one toward Derrik.
: "Yes, this is the meeting. No, you're not in any trouble for being late or trying to sneak in. Derrik Swiftjoke is back there, and you'll be needing to speak to him."
He smiles at the rogue, to indicate he meant no disrespect or ill will.

Posted by: Tarethen Sat May 06, 2006 4:15 am
((Let's just assume Farain has heard everything. I've read all the post and all... Damn research getting in the way of following the thread actively. )) Farain watched the man and heard his request. With a faint nod, the centaur made it known that he was going to take part in the expedition.

Posted by: GE Silver Dragon Sat May 06, 2006 6:28 am
Stoltz grimaces as he trudges along the docks of the port town, looking about for any sign or other indication that would distinguish the warehouse where he was supposed to be meeting his employer from the handful of other warehouses in the area, though he had little actual expectation of finding something. After all, the way the letter sounded, it didn't seem like the kind of gathering that would be publicly advertised. "Still...the description could've been just a tad more specific than 'a warehouse by the docks'..."
Sighing, he decides to check a random warehouse among the lot for the fourth time, hoping his luck would hold out better this attempt. He knew he was running rather late, as the silver pocketwatch contained in one of the multiple pockets of his tan-colored vest seemed to remind him with every soft tick it made. And though this didn't bother the tinker himself - after all, it was his first time in the town of Hassan, so not knowing his way around was to be expected - he did not wish to inconvenience the merchant lord or anyone else that may be involved.
Adjusting the small pair of dark-tinted goggles on his forehead and shifting the heavy rifle strapped to his back to a more comfortable position, he pushes his way through the entrance of the building...and to his relief, finds a rather sizeable - and unusually varied - group within. Smiling casually, he calls out to the group in a friendly tone as he approaches. "Ahoy there! Would any of ya'll happen to answer to the name of Swiftjoke? I seem to be running awful late, and would like to apologize to him personally if he's about!"

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Sat May 06, 2006 6:31 am
Luckily, Sorel's arms are still in place from directing Kayla to Derrik. : "Yes, that's him there. No need to apologize, just talk to Derrik over there." The old man's arms relax as he sighs. He heads over to stand by Graigus. : "Having fun yet?"

Posted by: Arcdragnbreth Sat May 06, 2006 6:48 am
"What do you mean? We haven't done anything remotely entertaining," Graigus said. "Unless you found something amusing about all of this?"

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Sat May 06, 2006 6:49 am
"In any case, now that I have all of your agreements, I will proceed to the briefing," Derrik says, nodding to those that came in. "Max is believed to be travelling with the robot named Adam and his nephew, the swordsman Ian. Intelligence I've acquired says that they were in Granseal, but are not there now... It's believed they headed from there to here, then from here, they seemed to change course and head north again. They were spotted in Ribble shortly after that, but the trail ends there. Questions?"

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Sat May 06, 2006 6:53 am
Sorel looks down at Graigus and smiles, eyes shining. : "Nothing's quite as exhilirating as the first steps of a new journey, even if you spend them playing doorman." Sorel raises his hand after Derrik speaks. : "To what end to we seek the hero Max?"
Once again, Sorel's ears twitch, and a slinking figure catches the corner of his eye. The pattern of movement was already familiar to him, however, so he simply called out.
: "Let us hope the enemies' senses are duller than mine, Dam Dicem."

Posted by: Arcdragnbreth Sat May 06, 2006 7:00 am
His feet carrying him swiftly and quietly across the meeting area, the cloaked Dicem found a good spot and stood still, listening. He smiled as Sorel's senses picked him out, but did nothing to reveal himself. ((Move Silently: 1d20 + 2 (ranks) + 4 (dex) = 16
Hide: 1d20 + 2 (ranks) + 4 (dex) = 23
And to hear the group's conversation...
Listen: 1d20 + 2 (ranks) + 1 (wis) = 13))
Graigus racks his brain, oblivious to the rogue's entrance.
((Spot: 1d20 + 1 (ranks) + 3 (wis) = 20
Listen: 1d20 + 1 (ranks) + 3 (wis) = 11))

Posted by: Lord Oddeye Sat May 06, 2006 8:30 am
Morgan entered the large bulding. Among all the other buldings around, this warehouse was likely to be the one fiting the most to the description. He saw a large crowd of people gathered on the other side of the room. He simply got closer to the group with a slow step, then stopped at a certain distance and said in a calm voice, attempting not to bother their discussion too much: "Are you all here to meet Mr. Swiftjoke?"

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Sat May 06, 2006 8:35 am
"Yes, they are," Derrik says. "Welcome to the party."

Posted by: Arcdragnbreth Sat May 06, 2006 8:37 am
Then, answering Sorel's question, the mechant continued. "Let's just say that many, many interested parties absolutely REQUIRE the hero's expertise on a number of projects." Sorel frowns, leaning on his staff. "Were you able to learn where he might have been destined? Tristan, perhaps? Or Pacalon?"
"If I knew, I wouldn't need to hire you," Derrik says with a shrug.
"Wait. What is a robot?"
"It's a mechanical man," Gilliam says.
Sorel's expression is distant. He seems to be just beyond the understanding of something that troubled him. "And these three, I imagine, have attracted the attention of several 'interested parties' ...you have any idea what kind of resistance we can expect to face?"
"Expect demons, undead, and cultists."
"Demons, undead, and cultists, oh my..." Sorel muttered. "Cultists of whom?"
"Who would employ such... monstrosities?" Graigus asked, his question echoing that of the druid.
"No one in particular..." Derrik says, looking around. "Just the Chaos Cult conquering half of Rune. Oh, and the Vandals. And the Devil Kings."
"But... but why? Why are so many great evils so interested in Max?"
*Ombligo blinks.* Ombligo: "Waiiiiit! Just how many enemies ARE there?"
"Well, he IS the man that defeated Dark Dragon, then went on to aid the third Shining Force in their defeat of Mishaela..." Derrik says. "In addition, he carries a few things of interest."
"Enemies, enemies... well..." Derrik begins to count off on his fingers. "There's the Chaos Cult, the Drowned Eye, the Devil Kings, the Vandals... Oh, I nearly forgot... the Imperial Destonian Army is mobilized as well. Anyway, you might run into advance forces from any or all of them, so be on the look out. Also, if you happen to see a young elven girl by the name of Simone, let me know."
Sorel nods. "There are others, I assume, assembled as we are and working to keep the peace, if not on your bankroll?"
"What do you mean?"
Sorel elaborates. "We are... an eclectic group, to put it lightly. But I cannot imagine we are the only such group to have been assembled as such. Will we be running into anyother ad hoc warbands?"
"It is good to be aware of one's enemies," Sorel went on. "But allies, those are an even greater resource, and seem to be in far fewer supply."
"There are a few running around, you might run into," Derrik answered, as Dicem again smiled from his hiding place at the old man's words.
"Any specifically after Max?"
"Not to my knowledge."
Sorel studies the designs on his staff for a moment. "Do any still stand unscathed?"
Derrik's smile fades. "Have you been paying attention to current events? No one's standing unscathed."
"Some of us do not spend as much time in the world as others," Graigus said. "But yes... we've heard that things are not good."
"I don't hear much from town criers in the middle of the woods." Sorel says. "I held on to the hope of the ignorant. I apologize. What of the gods? Do they remain secluded?"
Ombligo: "And...Umm...How long has all of this been going on, anyway?"
"Volcanon and Mitula answer their follower's prayers, but stir not from their lairs. Mitula's Shrine has been sealed and no word from within has reached the ears of anyone. The priests are not letting any enter."
Gilliam snorts. "Anyway," Derrik continues. "This has been going on for a few months now."
"Then why do we only stand here now?" Sorel says.
"But... surely they hear their priests - no, the world - crying for relief?" Graigus said, questioningly. "How could they not answer?"
Ombligo: "Didn't he just say they answered them? They're just not showing themselves."
"I don't really know how it works, but surely they can do more than revive a fallen paladin," Graigus said accusingly. "Volcanon himself created the world... what could stand against such power?"
Gilliam chuckles and shakes his head at Graigus' pronouncement of Volcanon's power.
"What's so funny?" Graigus asked, turning.
"Do you believe everything you're told?" Gilliam asks.
"No, I don't... but that sounds like the kind of talk that Dicem guy likes," the dwarf snapped back. A curious expression crosses Sorel's face as he looks at Gilliam. He quickly wills it away.
Gorrik clears his throat and speaks up. "Regardless of how powerful they may or may not be. They obviously have they're reasons to not be involved. But, if we're going to be getting along as a group, how abou we not attack each others beliefs, and simply focus on the matter at hand." The paladin shifts his gaze over to Gilliam's direction.
Stoltz nods his head at this statement. "I agree. From the sounds of it, we have few allies as it is, and an extensive list of enemies. Let's not add to that list by fighting amongst ourselves, hm?"
"I did not attack his beliefs... merely asked him a question..." Gilliam says neutrally.
"Whether or not he's right, I have no intetion of fighting Gilliam - or anyone else here," Graigus said sharply. "I'm not that kind of person."
"Ill ease, suspicion, contempt. All of these flow like diseases between comrades who cannot trust each other, and all of these are more deadly than a knife across the throat, to us and to the cause." Sorel says
Trying to leave the topic behind, Gorrik turned towards the one that assembled the group here and continued "So, Derrik, is there any other bits of imformation that we should know about?"
"Not really... The gold is in that crate over there," Derrik says, gesturing to a wooden crate in the corner. "It also contains a small orb. Shatter the orb when you've found Max, it will alert me."
"Is the gold payment, or operating expenses?" Sorel asked. "There is the matter of supplies."
"There should be more than enough in the 5,000 gold coins per person to cover operating expenses as well."
"And is there any other way of getting in touch with you, Jackass of the Realm?" Dam said, finally stepping into the open. "In case we have need of your... exceptional wares?"
Sorel supresses a smile at Dam's epithet
"I'll pop in periodically to check up on you. You can buy and sell from me then."
"I'd ask you to define periodically," the rogue commented dryly, "but I imagine you'd have an answer nearly as good as one of mine. If you have need of us, I intend for the group to remain here until tomorrow morning."
"I'd prefer you leave as soon as possible, why the delay?" Derrik asks.
"While I happen to have become something of an insomniac, Mr. Swiftjoke, and of a great constitution, not all of my group are. I'd rather see to it they rest properly before I leave. Besides... it's getting late."
Derrik arches an eyebrow. "It's five-forty!"
"And," he added, "I need to see what's been heard about our quarry."
"Well that last reason makes more sense. Very well, put your ear to the ground."
"I intend to," Dam said, carefully sifting through the crate the merchant had referred to before.
Frowning thoughtfully, Stoltz mentally reviews all the information about the mission Derrik had offered, checking for any loose ends that could be answered. "...the elven girl you mentioned...Simone was it? What is her signficance?"
"She's a friend of a friend of a former roommate."
Sorel looks toward Dam and the crate. "Do we recieve our payment now, or do they remain in communal store for expenses?"
"Take what's yours, but you're on your own for expenses."
Dam chuckled, even as he partitioned the gold between the 19 people present. "This gets partitioned, because this is coming from our employer. Everything else remains untouched until I have carefully looked over it."
Sorel nods. "A wise choice."
"Sorel... how do you feel about money, incidentally?"
Sorel's eyes narrow, his face spreading into a thin smile. "I have uses for it." he says, simply. Sorel taps Ombligo on the top of his shell. "I want you to take a walk with me, Ombligo. Before night falls, preferably."
*Ombligo blinks.* Ombligo: "What now? What'd I do?"
Sorel shakes his head. "You've done nothing wrong. In fact, I'm quite proud of you."
*Ombligo rubs his shell, confused. He then responds, happily.* Ombligo: "Okay!"
Sorel takes Ombligo's tentacle in his gray hand and they leave the warehouse, carrying their gold.
Accepting the gold, Stoltz dumps it into a satchel at his waist, then watches as the elderly individual and the small squid-creature depart. Definently an unusual group...this journey should be quite interesting...
"One last thing, before you go, Mr. Quickquip," Dicem said, while checking and distributing the money. "I assume we'll have some benefits when dealing with you in the future?"
"Not with that attitude, Ced-head," Derrik says with a grin before vanishing. Dam only continued to grin, as he completed the distribution of all the wages.
((Each character gains 5,000 gp. Knock yourselves out.))

Posted by: Critical Mass Sat May 06, 2006 10:01 am
*Nail nods to Swiftjoke as he finishes, giving his acceptance of the contract. The birdman wordlessly takes his bag of gold, pausing in front of Dam before leaving.* "Dicem? As in 'dice them?' What a silly name." *Dam says nothing, but rather continues to stuff his earnings into his bag.*
"I don't know..." Stoltz says with a soft chuckle as he sits on a crate and unstraps his rifle to inspect it. "I think it suits his rogueish personality rather well. No offense, mind you."
*The birdman turns to the tinker, frowning as much as one with a beak can actually frown.* "I never said it didn't suit his personality."
*Dicem only glances at the pair, before departing on his own business.*
*Morgan just takes place among the others, saying nothing for now. He couldn't even appologize to Derrik, as this one had already left. He observes alternatively every members of the group who are here, studying each one carfully.*
Stoltz glances up at the birdman "Well...when you say something's silly...wouldn't that generally imply you don't find it fitting? Unless you think the bossman himself is silly..."
*Nail watches Dam leave, then returns his gaze to Stoltz.* "..I do not trust him. Not as a person, and not as a leader. He seems.. immature."
"Hm?" Stoltz seems to consider this analysis for a moment, but doesn't look up from his inspection of the firearm. "Well...it's too soon for me to speak my thoughts of the fellow personally, but as far as leadership is concerned, I say if he thinks he can manage it, let him try. The journey has not yet begun, so no point in denouncing his abilities before they've been put to the test."
"A centaur, a golem, a birdman, a magical creature, a giant, a ratfolk, a dragon man, a sort of armadillo, and 2 Catfolks, all along with humans? How unusual..." Morgan thought,still looking at the different members of the group from under his hood. He then finally removed it to reveal his face, wanting to add his point to the leadership matter. "Don't be lured by appearances. If Mr. Swiftjoke chose this man to lead us, he must have a good reason. Let us wait and see the results of his influence over our group."
*The birdman shakes his head.* "This mission will be dangerous. I do not intend to be led around by someone who does not take our goals, our lives, seriously." *At that, Nail turns and exits the building, the gold at his side.*

Posted by: Aldur Sat May 06, 2006 11:37 am
((OOC: Morgan can't tell Gilliam is a robot. It's also doubtful he even has a clue what one is.)) "Well...Money aquired. But I don't really need that much now...Hm. But I think I'll browse around town anyway." Kria waved enthuastically at everyone before swiftly leaving the warehouse, giggling somewhat insanely to herself.

Posted by: Kaihaku Sat May 06, 2006 11:45 am
Coventry weighs the bag of gold in one hand for a long moment, a calculating expression on his face, then with a smirk he slides it into a pouch at his side and turns to leave. Just before he exits the warehouse however, he glances back, "I wouldn't be too worried about the Gods, my friends. There are other deities besides that lazy slut and the brain dead bird." He is then gone.
He walks swiftly to the merchant district, watching and keeping his distance from Kria while he makes a few purchases.

Posted by: Lord Oddeye Sat May 06, 2006 1:02 pm
((OOC : Granted that he can't guess what Gilliam is because of the cloak covering his body. But why do you say he don't even know what a robot is? If I'm correct, It's up to a knowledge [ancients] roll to make the difference, which I don't need to perform now as there is nothing to check obviously. Anyway, it's edited now.))
Morgan watched the birdman as he left the bulding and sighed. "It sounds like there will be some divergences about whether or not this man is skilled enough to be a true leader." He thought"Not a good way to start such an important mission though... In any case, I'll wait and judge by myself."
With that, he put the purse containing his wages into his own bag and decided it was time for him to visit some shops before the nightfall to buy some more gears for the journey to come.

Posted by: Dark Maiden Sat May 06, 2006 3:25 pm
Kayla nods to Dam thankfully, but no words come from her mouth. Kayla stuffs her share of gold into the money sack hanging from the belt around her waist. The tiefling examines everyone in the group for a moment, her eyes narrowed. What an odd group... Humans, catfolk, a golem, a centaur, a birdman, a ratfolk, what looks to be a magical squid, and some sort of armadillo. My, my, this adventure will be interesting to say the least...
Kayla looks around at the others that are still there, but says nothing. Kayla turns and walks out of the warehouse.
((Note to all, you cannot see Kayla's face right now. Also, she's going to do some shopping))

Posted by: Alpha Sat May 06, 2006 6:36 pm
Tanis watches Kria leave with wry amusement. He knew what she was going to buy. : Kria! Don't spend all your money on bangles *he calls after her* And make sure the ones you do get aren't fake! With that, he stashes his money and observes the group, thinking that this will indeed be interesting.

Posted by: Wandering Dezorian Sat May 06, 2006 8:52 pm
((All that in 1 day...?)) ((Sorry about that, Nightmare. Shall we assume we went to the bar and got a drink, then started working our way towards the warehouse?)) A half-giant dressed in country clothing wanders into the warehouse. "Did I miss anything?" he asks curiously, noting the mixed gathering.

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Sat May 06, 2006 8:57 pm
Sorel leads Ombligo out of the warehouse and into town. Passerby stop and gape openly at the strange pair, but the old man seems not to notice. His eyes are focused on the path ahead. *Ombligo floats about, following Sorel's direction as his gaze meets with the various townsfolk.*
Sorel speaks to Ombligo without averting his gaze.
: "I meant what I said. I truly am proud of you."
: "Why?" *Ombligo says, confused.*
: "You've been learning very quickly. You matured visibly in the last hour alone."
: "I did?" *Ombligo says, bobbing up and down.* "Well, I guess I do age quickly."
: "You were able to restrain yourself very well, despite how you feel about Dam. There are adults who can't claim that kind of self-control."
: "Well, yeah. You asked me to not say anything mean or anything like that."
Sorel nods. With silence he notes that the streets are dirtier, the buildings more shabby, and the people more lost and forlorn the farther they travel.
: "Do you remember what I said earlier, about the Golden Rule?"
*Ombligo's tentacle rubs his shell as his eyes look up.*
: "Umm...I think so. Isn't it something like, 'Treat everyone the way you would like to be treated?'"
A smile spreads across Sorel's face.
: "Exactly. There are two things that you need to know before we begin this quest. First, that you must guide yourself on this principle. Never ask for what you would not give. Never offer what you would not take. Never say what you would not have said about you."
: "But Sorel, what about the bad guys? That cult Derrik was talking about, and the demons?? Should I apply the same principle with them?"
The old man's face darkens.
: "That is the second matter. In the course of this quest, you may have to do things that, were they done to you, would be terrible and evil. A crusader calls this divine justice, and insists that what is done for good is always justiified. A cynic calls it hypocrisy, and insists that good and evil are things we've made up to justify our own self-interest."
Sorel pauses in his speech, walking several paces before continuing.
: "In the long view, neither is right. Nature is balance, and will endure for eternity, outlasting any single good and any single evil. But we don't live in the long view. It is our duty as parts of a whole to live day to day doing what we know in our hearts to be right, and let circumstance fall where it may. This is war, Ombligo, something not fit for anyone to endure, much less one such as yourself. The Golden Rule is a law of balance. Do onto others as you would have them do onto you. When one seeks to hurt you, or that which you hold dear, you may have to cause harm to protect them. It is not easy, and it is cruel, but it is the truth."
: "...War sounds pretty stupid. But...I did sign up for this, and if any enemy comes near you or Mahler, you can bet I won't hold back!" *Ombligo says, wildly flinging his tentacles.*
Sorel laughs lightly.
: "I admire your enthusiasm. And yes, war is a terrible thing. It brings out the best and noblest in some of us, and the most craven and despicable in others. There is nothing it leaves untouched. Ah, here were are."
Sorel stops abruptly in front of a large, dreary building. After a moment, he walks up to the front door and knocks three times. The door opens on a tired-looking woman with faded red hair. "Yes?" she asks, before her eyes catch Ombligo. "Wha?"
: "Don't mind me!" *Ombligo says, chuckling as he floats behind Sorel.*
Sorel looks past the woman to see seven or eight children seated at a large table, eating supper. The room vibrates with lively chatter and joyful laughter. The old man struggles under the weight of the sack as he extends it to the woman.
: "Please. You have a greater need for this than I ever will."
The den mother stares at the bag, uncomprehending, until the drawstring comes loose at the glint of gold catches her eyes. She looks up at Sorel in dumb disbelief.
: "Go, and tend to the children." Sorel says, turning back down the path leaving the shocked woman in the doorway.
They walk in silence for several minutes.
: "So, what do you think of our new friends?" Sorel asks Ombligo.
: "Ah, you mean the other people that signed up? Most of them seem fine to me. But..." *Ombligo winks.* Ombligo: "It's too early to tell."
Sorel nods.
: "Indeed. You remembered what I said about first impressions. Just as you should never judge one harshly based upon one, neither should you set a positive opinion in stone. I agree with what you said. It is, however, unfortunate the tongue Doctor Coventry and Derrik used is unknown to me. Secrets breed mistrust."
: "Oh, I know what they said!" *Ombligo chirps.*
Sorel stops.
: "You do? What did they say?"
: "Only 'Mr. Coventry' spoke in the that tongue, right? Well, it's weird...He didn't really say anything that could be secretive - except maybe for his comment regarding him not being so free with his freedom as others."
: "I must confess I wasn't paying attention as closely as I should have been. What did they talk about?"
: "Umm...I think it was wages. Derrik said in addition to the five thousand, we can keep whatever we find. Umm...I think we have to pay any expenses ourselves. I think that was mentioned. Oh, one more thing...That Doctor guy - Conventry...He said he wouldn't accept the offer if he were to be too restricted on his actions."
Sorel says nothing until they arrive at the warehouse once more.
: "If you want to go shopping, you should ask Mahler to take you. I am... tired. Remember, I am always willing to listen if you have questions or want advice. Don't hesitate to come to me."
: "Okay!" *Ombligo says, floating towards Mahler.*

Posted by: Nightmare Sat May 06, 2006 9:00 pm
((No worries WD, we'll just say we got into the warehouse just as Derrik showed up.))

Posted by: Aldur Sat May 06, 2006 9:28 pm
Kria returned to the warehouse rather quickly. Mostly because She didn't really need anything. She did like bangles, but the best ones cost so much more. Saving time!

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Sat May 06, 2006 10:45 pm
Kria enters the warehouse to find Sorel. She frowns, he looked asleep, and the young catgirl walked over, and gently poked him in the shoulder. : "Like...Sorel? Sorel responds without moving. "Kria?" The tense catfolk let out a small sigh of relief. "Whew, That's a relief...Whatcha doing?"
Sorel sighs. "Just thinking, really."
Kria giggled, mirth coating her face as she watched the old man. "About weighty matters? Wowie, you'd get on great with Tanis. He thinks about these big important things all the time."
The old man smiles warmly. "Tanis has a good head on his shoulders. Did you want to talk about something in particular?" he asks.
Kria snorts, throwing her hands in the air. "About Books and stuff! And yeah...I saw you with Ombligo earlier. And um, that bag, did you really give them that money? Did you owe them?"
Sorel studies Kria's face intensely for a moment. "In a way."
The catfolk quirked her head under his intense gaze. She nodded. "Um, I see...do I have something on my face? But yeah! Debt Sucks! I remember this one time I overspent and had to like...clean dishes for a few hours."
Sorel shakes his head. "You misunderstand. The debt I owe isn't monetary. It's measured in... well, no matter. Suffice it to say it is a debt I intend to continue to pay for as long as I am able."
"Like...Ok! Wow, you talk kinda like Tanis, only in a more preachy kinda way." She grinned, sitting beside the elderly human. "So..."
"I am no preacher," Sorel says. "I'm just an old man with odd spending habits."
Kria claps her hands together, laughing suddenly. "Like me then! I spend money on odd things all the time!"
Sorel chuckles. "Why do you spend money on such things? Intent colors action."
"I like them...I enjoy bright colours. Where I'm from everything...is black. Black houses, robes, burnt trees. It's all black and icky. Well, not icky but black isn't a colour I like that much." She shrugs, looking at one of the bangles on her arm. "And so many colours are good...you could even start to like apply an emotion to each. I did it for fun when I was little. Black isn't very happy. So I like bright colours."
Sorel looks at Kria oddly. "Where are you from?"
She frowns, thinking about it. "Urm, way back in the forests. I dunno exactly. I'm sure I'll know when i'm close to it. It's like...a pull. Ya know?"
Sorel closes his eyes, and is silent for a moment. "Did you live among the fey folk? Fairies and nymphs and pixies."
"Um...I didn't see any of them around? We were a tribe. We merely wandered around our forest, keeping to ourselves. The power I have here is like everyday there. I'm one of the better ones at it is all."
"Was your tribe the ones wearing those black robes and burning the trees?"
She blinked. "We didn't burn any trees. They just...went that colour...and returned to normal after we moved on I think. It was odd. Mother said to not worry much about it is all. We did wear the black robes. Except Mother. She had a Red one. I wanted a red one..."
"Was your mother the leader of the tribe?"
Kria blinked. "I dunno. She was the Priestess. She read the sky and they all like obeyed. So maybe?"
"Read the sky? So she was a seer..." Sorel trails off. "Hmm. How did you and Tanis meet?"
"Seer? What's that? And we met after I decided to leave the tribe. I just...left camp one day and wandered around by myself for awhile. Then a snake surprised me, I screamed and he was around and came running." She giggled at the memory.
"A seer is one who sees things others can't," Sorel says simply, "Omens of the future, the minds of others."
"Future? Nah, she just kinda...Listened to the dragony thing we worshipped. So I think it was the mind thingy. The Dragon was always so very far away apparently."
"A dragon god? What was it called?"
"I don't think it was a god. And um, I dunno. Mother used a different tongue that I didn't understand. She didn't teach me it. Only the next Priestess gets to know the language. Which sucked. I wanted to chat to it. The songs are nice though. Well, kinda."
"Hmm... Well, tell me, Kria, how far along are you in your plan for world bangle domination?"
She pouted, stamping her foot off the ground. "Not very, I need enough money to keep me going and set me up in business. I've kept the money Derrik gave so that's something towards it!"
"Patience is invaluable to those pursuing success. The widest, deepest rivers all started as tiny streams that trickled from the mountains to the sea."
"But I don't want to get that big. Then no one else will challenge me for the title. Then there's really no point to it."
"Just how competitive is the bangle market?"
She shrugs. "I dunno. But I doubt I'm the only one with this dream...right?"
"I don't know the answer to that. I can tell you I didn't give bangles a second thought until I met you. Perhaps you are a pioneer of sorts? Kria, the First Empress of the Bangle Empire, as it were?" Sorel says, grinning.
"Maybe! But I need to see the world first. I'm bored of Black and Green. I wanna see all the colours in the world, then I'll make a rainbow bangle, and it's sucess will power my way to the empire!" She punched the air with her fist, giggling somewhat maniacally to herself.
"Well, Kria, I wish you the best of luck," Sorel says, rising. "And please, if you ever need help or advice, don't hesitate to come to me."
"Alrighty! I'm gonna go find Tanis now. Later Sorel!" The hyperactive teen jumped to her feet and wandered off, looking for Tanis.

Posted by: Lord Oddeye Sun May 07, 2006 12:05 am
Morgan finally found a shop worthy of his interests and entered. The trader, a big bearded man, greeted him from behind his counter. : "Good evening, dear customer! I'm sorry but I'm gonna close soon as it's being late." :"Don't be worried sir, it won't take too long."
"So, what can I do for you?"
: "I just want to buy some of your healing potions, maybe some others eventually."
"Of course, look 'round and see what you need"
((bought 4 potions of CLW for 50 GP each, 2 potions of CMW for 300 GP each, 3 potions of Fox's cunning for 400 GP each and 6 potions of Protection from Evil for 50 GP each. Still have 2700 GP.))
: "It's alright, I think I've got everything I needed."
"Alright then, come back tomorrow morning if you want to buy more."
With a slight, respectful bow at the merchant, Morgan left the shop and returned to the warehouse to catch up with the group.

Posted by: Dark Maiden Sun May 07, 2006 12:59 am
Kayla finds her way to a promising shop and steps inside. The tiefling approches the counter, looking at the man behind the counter intently. "Good evening, miss. It's getting rather late, and I think that I'll be closing shop soon." "This will not take long. I am merely here to purchase some potions, then I will be on my way."
Kayla looks at a shelf of potions for a moment and walks over. She grabs 8 different bottles off of the shelves and places them on the counter.
"That'll be 1900 gold."
Kayla places the exact amount on the table and takes the potions, stuffing them into the pouch hanging from the belt around her waist.
"Goodbye."
Kayla turns and walks out of the shop. She then heads back to the warehouse to see if the others are back yet.
((Kayla bought:
() 5 potions of CLW
() 3 potions of CMW
() 1 potion of CSW
5268 gold remaining))

Posted by: DragonmasterDon1 Sun May 07, 2006 1:22 am
Langston happily pocketed his money, wandered out and bought a Handy Haversack, and returned to the Warehouse. He leaned up against a pile of crates in the warehouse and crossed one leg over the other, flipping a coin in the air idly. He whistled a happy ditty, watching the others as they moved in and out of the warehouse.

Posted by: Arcdragnbreth Sun May 07, 2006 4:58 am
After speaking for four hours with the town's various residents - most of whch being slightly intoxicated bar patrons - Dam returned to the room he'd rented, carefully looking over the information he'd gathered. ((Back to Back Gather Info - the 13 and a 21 netted me this:))
"The Destonian Empire's invaded Aspinia, Cypress is embroiled in an uprising, and Guardiana and the Cult are encroaching on all of Rune! So far it looks like only Grans and South Parmecia are in the clear..."
That's good to know, he thought, nodding in the candle-lit room. First, we've got some time before we run into any real difficulties here - hopefully. Second, if Max is no longer in this area, we've got a place to start looking - Guardiana.
"I enjoy pines."
Dear god, the rogue thought, smiling slightly, I hope this guy never has children...
"Attacks by sea monsters have risen dramatically in the last few weeks... Only the bravest or most heavily armed vessels dare ply the waters now!"
"Yaaaay," Dam said sarcastically, shaking his head. Going to need to keep an eye on our boat if we do any sea travel...
"Now that Mishaela is finally dead, Cynthia has settled back down to be chief healer here... It's a good thing too! Many adventurers are coming back wounded after their recent rompings around teh countryside!"
Hmm... maybe we need to see if she's got any knowledge of where they've gone, he considered, continuing to look through the mental notes he'd made.
"I hear this trio of really tough looking folks paid a whole heap of gold to hire a ship to sail to Grans! My friend told me it was something like fifty thousand! Where'd they get that money, and why do they want to get to Grans so badly?"
That could very well be them, though I'd rather check out things on Parmecia before heading to Grans if I can, he thought, nodding to the air.
"Right now, the Cult has control of Guardiana, Runefaust, Alterone, and a few scattered holdings in Cypress... But they're pressing hard on Rindo and Prompt! They say the Cult forces not only include captured and brainwashed troops, but also possessed soldiers, devils, undead, robots... It's almost like a Shining Force reversed!"
At least I know Derrik wasn't kidding about the cult being bad, Dicem finished, considering his options once again. Alright... Cynthia's in Hassan, so I can check up on that rumor first. Depending on what she says, I'll move from there - but the next course of action is to rent a boat to Grans.
And with that, he secured his items and left, heading straight to Cynthia's house. Knocking on the door, a young voice answers from inside.
"Who is it?"
((Bluff: 1d20 + 8 (ranks) + 1 (cha) = 18))
"I'm a friend of one of the guys you patched up a few days ago... he said you saved his life, so I wanted to come thank you in person. Can I come in?"
"Sure, it's unlocked," she said, and the man entered, lowering his hood after shutting the door.
"Thank you," he said, extending a hand. "I'm Colios."
Cynthia pops out from the kitchen, walking over to shake Dam's hand.
"I'm Cynthia, nice to meet you."
"Wow... I didn't know someone so talented was so young," the rogue commented, smiling.
"Er, thanks, I guess."
"I'm just glad you got to him when you did," Dam continued. "From what I hear, you've got your hands full with all the guys getting hurt across the countryside."
"Yeah, not only are monsters attacking, but there's a lot of odd folks wandering around."
"Odd? Really? Like how?" the rogue said, curiosity in his voice.
Cynthia rubs her chin, then brightens. "Like that guy behind you!"
A sword swishes over Dam's head, and as he turns around he has no time to look the newcomer over, as he is forced to dodge swiftly. His opponent is an elf in dark clothing, bearing a short sword in one hand, and a dagger in the other. His face is hidden by layers of cloth. Before Dam can react, the cloaked figure stabs him quickly.
((Dam takes 12 damage.))
"That wasn't fun," the rogue grunted, staying on the defensive as he moved between the newcomer and the healer. "You usually stab people you've never met before, buddy?" Dam asked, drawing his saps.
((Bluff 16, elf passed the Sense Motive. Dam is on the defense.))
Before Dam can more, Cynthia hums a happy tune and brings her staff down on the elf's head. The bludgeon hits the man's skull with a dull crack and the elf looks dazed.
The elf does not reply to Dicem, but rather launches two more attacks. Cynthia continues humming happily as she whirls back her staff and then slams it into the side of the elf's head. The elf's skull partially caves in as bits of brain cake the wall.
"Oh... darn. I just cleaned that wall from the last assassin," Cynthia says, pouting. She starts humming again as she trots over to a closet and withdraws a bucket and mop.
"Well, now I know why I don't do that more often," the rogue grunted, holding his wound as he locked the door.
"Hey, open the door, I need to get some well water to clean this up."
"Hang on a second. You just said that this isn't the first assassin to come after you. Why are you walking around as if this is all normal?" Dam said, replacing his weapons.
"Isn't it?" Cynthia asks, as she tilts her head.
"... wow. This day just get's better and better," Dam said, shaking his head. "No... assasin's stabbing your guests in the chest and trying to kill you are not normal. Not by any stretch of the imagination."
"Oh..." Cynthia, says, looking down for a bit. Then she smiles again. "Well, papa always did say I was special!"
"Do you have something I can use for this wound, by the way? I'd rather not bleed on the floor, if you have to clean up..."
"Yeah, you should get that looked at..." Cynthia says, frowning at the wound.
"You know, I'm sure that if you had any healing spells left, you could close that right up," Dam said, unable to believe how dense the girl was.
"Oh, yeah, I know!" Cynthia says brightly. "But I used them all already. Sorry! I can sell you a medical herb if you want it, though."
"That's alright... I'll manage," Dam grunted. "Come on... let's go. If you're going to get that water, I'm coming with you."
"'Kay!" Cynthia continues humming a tune as she marches outside to get some water. Dam shakes his head as she leaves, looking around for any more would be assasins; he sees no one, but it is now nightfall. Cynthia fills the bucket and walks back inside. She starts scrubbing the wall happily.
"Cynthia," Dam said, re-entering, "We need to talk. Now."
"Oh no..." Cynthia says, frowning. "You're using the same tone of voice Ian used after that one time I accidently healed that Ancient half-machine thing..."
"First things first, my name's not Colios. It's Dam, " he revealed, ignoring her words before again locking the door. "I've been hired to look for Max, Ian and Adam."
"Yeah, I thought as much," Cynthia says, continuing to scrub the walls. "You didn't seem the sort to be friends with the last group I healed."
"Glad you picked up on that," Dam said dryly. "The point is, I came here because we've also been told they're in danger, and I figured you'd know where they were headed. The fact that you're cleaning up assassin bits lets me know they are, and they're not the only ones."
"Well, the last time I heard from Ian, he and Max were going to travel for a bit... They didn't have a specific destination in mind, but I think they were headed for Guardiana. That was back when we split up after killing Mishaela, though. Don't know if they're still headed that way."
Even as he speaks, Dam carefully takes his time searching the body of the assassin, cleaning and sheathing the would-be killer's weapons before slipping them into his own haversack.
((Dam finds a Masterwork Short Sword, a Masterwork Dagger, 50 Platinum pieces, and a small crest of a corrupted starburst; it's multicolored, with wavy "points" emanating from the central core.
Kno: Religion: 1d20 + 1 (ranks) + 4 (int) = 24. Crest identified as the Chaos Cult symbol.))
So much for having time before we ran into them, the rogue thought, sadly.
"Cynthia, I think you should come with me. It's obviously not safe for you here in Hassan, and we could use your skills."
"Sorry, can't go!" Cynthia says shaking her head. "Have to stay here in case Ian comes back. I'm also kinda the town's main healer."
"Cynthia, I don't think you quite understand... people are trying to kill you," Dam says, shaking his head. "Besides, like I said, I'm looking for Max; if Ian's still traveling with them, you'll meet him faster than you will if you stay here."
"Oh, I know, people are always trying to kill me," Cynthia says. "It's just like the war against the devils. I'll be fine."
"Are you sure I can't change your mind?" Dicem asked, looking at her. "You're no good to these people if you're dead, and I know there's another healer here somewhere."
"Oh, I won't die. I'm sure the powers of Light will protect me," Cynthia says nodding.
"Alright... your choice, then," Dam said, sighing. "Oh, and one more thing... keep it quiet that I came to visit you tonight. Tell other members of your group, if you want, but if anyone else asks you've never seen me. I'd rather not have these guys on our tail."
"OK," the healer said nodding.
"Jeez... stabbed by an assassin from the Chaos Cult. What a way to start," he grumbled, unlocking the door. "Do you know where the nearest healer is?"
"Yeah, I'm right here!" Cynthia says, brightly.
"One who might still have healing spells prepared, I mean," he said, shaking his head. "Wait... nevermind. I think I know someone who can help me. Just keep a watchful eye out."
"Will do!" the healer said, nodding entusiastically.
Shaking his head again, the red-haired rogue left the healer's residence, looking around for Sorel.

Posted by: Rusty Sun May 07, 2006 5:19 am
*Ombligo floats over to Mahler, swaying as he nears him.* : "Hey, Mahler! Sorel said he'd be busy for a little, so he said I should go shopping with you." *Mahler slowly turns to face Ombligo. The creature's happiness always brought a smile to his face.*
: A fine idea... I was just about to head out. Let's go.
*Ombligo follows Mahler, starting up a conversation along the way.*
: "Hey, Mahler...You don't think the odds are overwhelming, do you? I mean, Derrik listed a lot of enemies. Do you think we can take them?"
: I don't presume anything, but I think we can handle ourselves quite well. Don't you think?
: "Yeah, you're probably right. I think we'll be okay. I've never been in a war before, though..."
: You should watch yourself, though. You're becoming popular. The enemies might begin to take a liking to you, too, *Mahler laughs*
: "Well, as long as they've never heard of me, they'll never know what hit 'em! And you can give them the ol' one-two punch!" *Ombligo says enthusiastically.*
*They continue walking, and after Omblgio's comment, Mahler puts his fists up to his face like he's fighting.*
: Ha... HAH! *Mahler sounds as he mimicks Ombligo's one-two punch line.*
*Ombligo chuckles, floating in circles.*
: "Yeah, I don't think we'll have too much trouble...Hey, what do you think you might buy, Mahler? I don't know if I should buy anything yet, myself. I think I'll save up for something really good!"
: Hmmm... I'm torn. Either something to make my stone harder or something to make me hardier.
: "Hmmm...Yeah. I don't know. Either one sounds good. We are going to be fighting demons, though...And Drowned Eye, whatever THOSE are. I wouldn't know what to pick, so I hope you decide when we get there!" *Ombligo says, regretful that he couldn't help the decision.*
*Shortly thereafter, Ombligo and Mahler find themselves at the shop.*
: Ah, here we are. Let's enter.
: "Okay! You first!" *Ombligo chirps.*
*Mahler crosses the threshold into the magic shop and peruses the wares. He comes upon a single amulet that looks like a petrified piece of wood, hardened and fossilized throughout the ages. He takes it to the shopkeeper and inquires about it. He becomes intrigued, then makes his purchase*
*As Mahler purchases the amulet, Ombligo's eyes curiously gaze at all of the various items in the shop.*
*Mahler finishes the transaction, then thanks the shopkeeper. Then, he walks over to Ombligo, the magic creature intently perusing the magic items*
: Find anything of interest?
: "I like just about everything here!...But I still want to save up for something really great...If nothing else, to get my cape further enchanted." *Ombligo says, tugging at his red, magical cape.*
: So you learned to save your money?
: "Yeah...I always see how Sorel just gives his money away all the time. I know he doesn't need it...And I don't really need it, either...But we're going to be fighting a lot more bad guys than usual, so I'm going to need something that really helps out, right?"
: You can already help out, Ombligo. But if it makes you feel better to have it, then of course there's no problem. As for Sorel, he has his own way of giving back to others, just as you and I have our own way.
: "Yeah. Okay! I'm going to keep saving until I find something worthy of buying, then. By the way, did you know we get to keep all of the stuff we find on our adventure? I heard Derrik and Conventry talking about it. Why did that Doctor guy bother talking in the holy tongue? What a strange man."
*The two resume walking back to meet up with the rest of the force.*
((4K for the amulet, so Mahler's got 2K))

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Sun May 07, 2006 5:54 am
"Can't say I'm surprised to see you here," Dam said, approaching the druid. "I've found out some interesting information." Sorel sits on the dock, facing east. He makes no reply. "Didn't expect to get stabbed because of it, though," the young man added. "Do you have a healing spell to spare?"
Sorel looks up, seeing Dam's wound. He stands swiftly, laying a hand on the wound and murmuring under his breath.
((CLW cast. Dam is healed))
"What happened?" Sorel asks.
"A rumor I'd heard said Cynthia was back in town, so I went to visit. Turned out to be true," Dam said.
*Ombligo approaches, floating in the air, with Mahler in tow.* "Hey!"
Raising the assasin's crest, he added "Another rumor said that the Chaos Cult hadn't made it's way here. That one turned out to be false."
Sorel holds his hands out over the dock. rubbing them together. Pure water flows from his hands, washing away Dam's blood. "What of our quarry?"
"Cynthia said that, last she heard, Max was headed for Guardiana, though they might have changed destinations. Of course, she also whistled a tune when she wiped up the assassin's brains." Raising his hands, he added "I didn't do it. I was going to take him alive, but she gave him a headache he won't be recovering from."
Gail approaches the spot she had been moments earlier, quirking an eyebrow as wonders what's happening.
Sorel frowns deeply. "Hassan's in good hands..."
"Considering she won't join us, I guess you can say that," Dam replied. "In any case, I've also heard another rumor to the affect that three strong men were seen headed to Grans. Could be a lead on what they did first."
Sorel looks out, to sea. "It seems like an awfully vague description to work with."
"If you think you'd do better at gathering information, by all means go ahead and try," the orange-haired man said. "Otherwise, I'm getting us a boat to Granseal in the morning."
Ombligo: "Umm...Is anyone here familiar with Grans?"
Sorel shakes his head. "It appears a vague lead is our best," he admits.
"Yes, I've bought an... extensive map," the rogue said, pulling one out of the haversack.
Sorel glances at the map. "That must have put you back."
"I consider it an investment," the rogue said, pointing out Hassan then Granseal. "By the looks of it, I'd say it'll be anywhere from a month to two on the water before we get there, if we left today," Dicem said. "However, maybe we could find a spellcaster who can teleport us all there; much faster, and depending on when these three men left we might make it before they did. Thoughts?"
Sorel looks down at the map. "The worst case is that we lose 4 months on a false lead. While I may not be of any significant skill at gathering information, surely another of us is. A day of earnest reconaissance may be a wiser course of action."
Ombligo: "Hey! Why don't a bunch of us go out and gather information, Sorel?"
"I don't mind that; gives me a chance to keep an eye on Cynthia. I need to discuss this with everyone else, though, after I've gauged all of your abilities and seen whether it's worth having someone else poke around."
Sorel nods. "Will that be all?"
"No, actually," the rogue said, giving Sorel a handful of gold. "In case you need to spend some money gathering information."
((Dam hands Sorel 13 gold))
Sorel looks down at the gold in his hand. "Very well, then." He pauses, and then speaks again. "No, I'm sorry. I can't accept this," he says, moving to hand the gold back to Dam.
"If you don't need it... keep it and spend it on something useful," the rogue says, walking away. "A room is ten gold, if you, Ombligo and the golem need a room. I trust one of your wisdom not to be frivolous."
"Something useful..." Sorel echoes.
And with that Dicem left the docks, returning to his own room to look over the items he'd picked up in silence before sleeping.
Ombligo: "Um...Sorel, if you want, I'll hold onto it."
Sorel passes the gold to Ombligo. "That would be best, I think. Let Mahler take you to the inn. You need to rest up for tomorrow."
Ombligo: "Okay!" *Ombligo salutes Sorel, then takes the gold and heads off with Mahler.*
Sorel watches them until they are out of sight. A long moment passes before Sorel sits back on the sturdy planks of the docks, meditating. It would be hours until the sun rose, and he had much to contemplate.
Back at the warehouse, Lunauga shifted from the rafters. He swoops down in the darkness, on the hunt for another night.

Posted by: Cyrus Sun May 07, 2006 6:01 am
[Earlier that day...] Gail wanders around the town of Hassan, watching as the sun dipped down over the wavering horizon. The town wasn't without it's charm; a peaceful place where one could waste his life away without care or worry. However, that was just the problem; the activity she had become used to at the order made her feel out of place. That, and all that money just jingling around in her purse made her nervous. All the shops seemed to be closing, too, so she had no way to get rid of it. Just have to wait for tommorrow, then, she thought, returning to the warehouse. She was thinking about talking to someone about this contract, and recalling that the warehouse was where they had gathered, she went back, finding Sorel. Just the man I wanted to talk to, she thought as she approached him.
: "How's your owl," she said, awkwardly trying to start the conversation and wishing she had thought of something else.
Sorel tilts his head to the rafters. "Tired." Sure enough, Lunauga is perched up in the ceiling of the warehouse, eyes closed.
: "Oh," Gail says, her eyes following his to the avian's resting place. "He seems to be very intelligent. A good companion, to be sure."
: "He is, indeed." Sorel brings head head back down, levelling his gaze at Gail. "He was alone when I found him. Owls are solitary by nature, but Lunauga stood out as exceptionally lonely. He never left his tree, even to hunt. I came to find out that he was guarding the corpse of his mother and siblings from scavengers. They had been poisoned, the mother passing it on to her chicks. It is unusual to see an animal so profoundly affected. A bond between a parent and his child, or a mentor and his protege, is one we take for granted...Listen to me ramble. You wanted to speak to me?"
Gail was at a lost of what to say at first, simply going back to the owl in amazement. At his beckoning, though, the paladin looks back to the old man, smiling slightly. "No, it's alright. It was enjoyable. I had no idea he was so honorable." At this, the smile disappears as she begins what she wanted to say. "This mission...doesn't it seem strange to you? What do you think of all this?"
Sorel shrugs. "The lost and frightened turn to heroes for guidance, protection, and inspiration. It makes sense that in these most trying times this most exalted hero would be so highly sought," he says. "As for my opinion... well, I'd like to know more about what Derrik intends to do if we discover Max, for whom Derrik himself is working, but there is yet time for these things to reveal themselves."
: "That makes sense, but for what I've heard, this Max has been gone since before I was born. I can understand the worth of this cause, but it just seems like this is a mere few steps away from a wild goose chase, which would only lower the people spirits as they believe that their hero is truly gone." She sighs before continuing. "As for Derrik, I wonder what information he has and where he got it from than what his intentions are. There must be hundreds of stories of where he's gone, but to find actual information would be difficult to say the least."
: "It would also be difficult to amass and assemble the resources Derrik has. People don't get the kind of success and power Derrik has by going on wild goose chases. I cannot deny, however, the possibility that what you say could be true. The only solace I can offer is the fact that many forces of evil are also searching for the hero, and that our paths will almost certainly cross. Certainly the chance to move however indirectly against the evils that ravage the world is not a wasted endeavor."
: "Indeed. I only hope that we will be enough..." At this, Gail shakes her head slightly, her hand brushing a few silver strands from her face. "I apologize for this. You must be tired of my worrying. Thank you for your time." She turns, beginning to walk back to the other side of the warehouse.
Sorel watches Gail as she walks away. "Wait," he says.
Gail turns aburptly, her blue cape swishing. "Yes?"
: "Be aware that I do not tire easily of words. Should you ever have questions or need advice, feel free to come to me."
: "Thank you. I'll remember that." She then returns to her post, a small smile on her lips as she walks away.
Also smiling, Sorel looks up at the owl, clucking his tongue. Lunauga stirs briefly, and is again still.

Posted by: Lord Oddeye Sun May 07, 2006 10:19 am
The sun now being set to the horizon, Morgan gets nearer to the warehouse and enters, only to find it almost deserted. Not too much surprised seeing the lateness of the day, he put his robe's hood on his head, thinking it's time for him to find an inn and rest for the night. But as he turns back to leave the warehouse again, he notices the presence of somebody else. A tall figure wearing a cloak was coming to the entrance.
((It's supposed to be Kayla in fact))

Posted by: Critical Mass Sun May 07, 2006 11:09 am
Graigus slipped into Hassan's tavern again, once more observing the patrons. Looking around, he just barely spots the form of Gail sitting at a table alone. "Is this seat taken?" the dwarf asked, moving to her side. "Go ahead. I don't mind," Gail replies before taking a swig of her tankard.
"Thank you," the monk said, slipping into the seat. After placing an order with the waitress for a tankard of his own, he said "So... you're to be part of this expedition as well. I'm Graigus."
"I'm Gail. Nice to meet you." She takes her time to finish a bit of steak before continuing. "So, Gragius...what do you do?"
"I try to improve my body, so that nothing hinders my mental and spiritual growth," the dwarf responded. "And what do you do?"
"I fight evil with evil, hoping that what I do today leads to its reduction in the future...though, that makes my life rather hypocritical, doesn't it?"
"It is only hypocritical if your intention is to breed that which you strive against," Graigus said, simply. "At least, that is what my master would say..."
"True, but then many would say that violence breeds violence, and that is the evil I sadly find myself using more and more these days." She takes another sip from the tankard before looking at the dwarf. "Sorry, I doubt you came here for philosophy."
"Philosophy is a means of being enlightened; I never tire of enlightenment," the dwarf said, nodding to the waitress as she brought his ale. "I'll have the same meal as the lady," he said, before returning his attention to Gail. "You were saying that you were using violence to solve problems more and more; against what have you been fighting?"
Gail stops, her gaze moving to the ground as silence passes. "Undead," she says simply, her eyes returning to the meal. "That which does not live, but walks and feeds without end."
"True abominations, indeed," the dwarf said, his tone becoming more serious. "Allowing the dead to rest... that can never be an act which breeds evil."
"It may give restipe, but without a face to put to the deed, there can be no rest. Not for the dead, or the living."
"Indeed," the monk agreed with a nod. "Do you know which heartless individual would interrupt the eternal rest of innocents?"
"The heartless kind?" Gail asks, a smirk on her face as she makes her poor attempt at a joke.
"Indeed," Graigus said, allowing a small smile to cross his face. As the waitress brought the dwarf's food to the table, he nodded his thanks and said "Enough... we have time to be serious later. For now, a toast."
"A toast, then." She raises her tankard as she looks at Graigus. "To the future."
"To one where our abilities are no longer necessary," he added, clanking his tankard against hers before taking a long swig.
Gail joins him, taking an equal swig before sighing loudly, setting her tankard down on the table.
"If you don't mind my asking," she says, carving another bite out of her meal, "Where are you from?"
"A town north of Granseal; it's small, though, so few know of it," he replied, ordering another round of ale for himself before downing the rest of his tankard and biting into the steak."This is good," he said, before looking back at the paladin. "And yourself?"
Gail nods, smiling as she cuts what she wanted. "My mentor was right about this place. I should try a few of the other places he recommended, if they're as good as this..." She then downs another strip of meat before answering the monk's question. "I come from a town not too far north of here called Ribble. It's a nice place...plain as a rock, but quiet, for the most part."
"The smaller places are more peaceful," the monk pointed out.
"Indeed. I just hope there is a small place for me when I am old and grey."
"As do I, though that won't be for a very long time," Graigus said, nodding, before thanking the waitress for the new tankard. "Can I buy you another round?"
"If you insist. I don't mind."
"Do you drink much?" Graigus asks.
"Not often. A drink a day usually, if I'm near a tavern; If not, I drink only water. Does it surprise you?"
"A little, yes, though I suppose it shouldn't... I've had my fair share of alcohol," he admits.
Gail chuckles. "I guess it is a bit shocking, given how some of my peers maintain a holier-than-thou attitude, but I guess you'll have to thank- or blame - my teacher. He thought me all I know, and he drank like a demon, so some of it rubbed off on me."
"Heh... my first master did not approve of my enjoyment of drinking either, though my second master was of the opposite opinion." Lowering his voice, he asked, "Have you heard of drunken boxing?"
The paladin shakes her head, leaning into what was obviously a closely guarded secret. "It sounds contradictory to me, but it wouldn't be a style if it was, would it?"
"It's actually quite effective," Graigus said, pausing to bite into his meal again before continuing. "By stumbling and moving like you're drunk, you can throw your opponents off. It's even more effective when drunk."
"And here you had me thinking it was all a lie," Gail says, smiling. "Just what, praytell, makes it so much more effective?"
"Well, if your body doesn't stay still, it's harder to time attacks or make a good defense. And it's much easier to move when your body does it naturally - as it does when you drink. In addition, my second master taught me how to use drink to strengthen my body, not weaken it."
"Really? That's quite a unique skill. I can see why it's such a secret."
Nail enters the tavern, not intending to spend his night sleeping in an abandoned warehouse. Weaving his way past the drunken patrons, he makes his way to the bar and places down a small stack of coins for a room. As he turns after receiving his key the birdman notices the dwarf and girl from earlier sitting at a table and approaches, offering a nod in greeting. "I believe we are to be working together. If that is the case, we should perhaps at least exchange names."
"Oh, yes... hello," the monk said, extending a hand. "Graigus Stonemead."
"Gail," the paladin says, extending a hand in welcome. "And you are?
Nail grasps first the monk's and then the paladin's hands in his own strong grip, his large talons easily dwarfing the other two's. "I was given the name Nail," he says, seating himself. He looks first at one, then the other. "Have you worked with any of the others before?"
"Actually, excuse me... nature demands I deal with certain things," the dwarf said, gesturing to the seats available as he rose. "I'll be right back."
Gail nods as the dwarf excuses himself, then turns back to the rather strong birdman. "Not that I recall, no. Have you?
Stoltz enters the tavern just in time to see the dwarf run by, and watches him disappear around a corner. Wasn't that...one of the people from the warehouse? Well...I suppose logically speaking others would have need of a bed for the night...I wonder if any more of them are here? Deciding to tend to business first, he searches out the clerk behind the bar, dispensing the necessary coins for a one-night stay and placing the key in a vest pocket.
Nail shakes his head. "I haven't. And I'm not sure I much like that idea. What about this Swiftjoke? What do you know of him?"
"Not much. Just he's a merchant who apparently has many resources. And if being amongst strangers bothers you that much, then I guess we should get to know each other."
The birdman nods in agreement, the cord of jagged teeth around his neck jingling softly as it bounces against his bare chest. "Some of the others I'm not so sure about, but you at least look like you know your way around a fight."
"Thanks. I seem to do a lot more fighting than I'd like to, though." At this, she begins to scan the room, her eyes coming to a distant table.
"What did I miss?" Graigus asked, sitting down and taking a bite of his steak.
"Seems one of friends is all by his lonesome...still in his armor, too." Gail then returns to Nail. "Let's see if we can get him over here, shall we?"

Posted by: Lord Oddeye Sun May 07, 2006 12:24 pm
*Ombligo floats in, stretching out his tentacles as he yawns.* "And hello to you too, again," Graigus said, nodding. "We were just saying how this table felt a little spaci-Oh, hello." "What are you all doing?? Is this another meeting?" "No, nothing so formal. Just a gathering to get to know each other."
Nail turns slowly to the magic creature, his face an unreadable mask as he studies the new arrival.
"Another one of us.." "..what are you, exactly?"
"That's a good question," the monk said, turning. "I've never met a creature like yourself."
"Hm? Me? I read I was a Magic Creature!" *Ombligo says, bobbing up and down in mid-air.*
Eyes narrowing, Nail nods. "I see.."
"I'll be back," the birdman says as he stands and approaches the bar.
"That seems accurate," Gail says, taking a sip from her tankard. "What's your name?"
"My name's Ombligo!" *He says as his tentacles wiggle slightly.*
"Interesting name for an interesting creature," Graigus said, nodding. "What do you do with your time, Ombligo?"
Gail chuckles at the creature's cute actions. "It suits you."
"Umm...lots of things! I explore places with my friends Mahler and Sorel, and I practice my magic...I guess it doesn't sound like much, but there's a lot in exploring!"
"Exploration - at least internally - is important for us all. Sometimes external exploration helps that process along," the dwarf offered.
Nail returns to the table and sits wordlessly, looking decidedly angry.
Stoltz pulls his watch from another vest pocket and checks it thoughtfully, glancing between the stairs and the several tables in the tavern. Hm...getting late...but after such a long day, a couple drinks shouldn't hurt.
"Haha, you sound like Sorel!" *Ombligo chuckles.*
"Mahler...I don't believe I met him yet. Is he the golem who was hanging around you like a hawk?"
Graigus nodded, before looking at Nail's expression. "Did something happen?"
"Yup! He's been with me since day one!"
Pocketing the watch once more, the tinker moves towards an empty table, but before sitting down, recalls the dwarf that had run by before and casts a quick look around the tavern to see if he's about.
Graigus : "Apparently this place consider's itself too good to sell me something to eat."
Gail smiles warmly at the child. "You should be proud, then. You have very good friends."
"Is that so?" Graigus said, standing. "Did they give a reason?"
The birdman's eyes narrow. "It apparently has to be cooked before I can have it."
"I'll see what I can do about that, then," the dwarf nodded, grabbing his tankard in one hand and his staff in another.
With that he waddled to the counter, speaking with first the bartender, then the cook.
Gail turns to the birdman, a serious look on her face as before hearing the birdman's next reply. "I guess it's for sanitary reasons."
*Ombligo floats over near Gail.* "Hey, how old are you? I hear I'm not very old in human years. You don't look very old, either."
"I'm 19. Not very old, but then, I'm told I won't look very old at any age."
Graigus : "Well, if they intend to act like that," he said, returning,
"I'll take my business elsewhere. I'll speak to you all later."
"You.. 'Ombligo..' what is it you bring to our little group? You hardly look like someone we could use in battle."
"How despicable! Weren't you paying attention? I'm a Magic Creature! I use magic spells!"
Stoltz manages to spot the dwarf...but only just in time to see him once again disappear from sight, this time out the entrance to the inn. He frowns slightly at this. Guess he had to go...ah well, there'll be plenty of time for an introduction later, I suppose.
Nail snorts. "Magic.. the defense of the weak, from what I've seen."
"Oh really? I bet you don't know very much about magic, then!"
Gail watches as Graigus storms out, a flash of anger appearing on her face before she rises. "Excuse me," she says, before going to up to the bar.
He holds his wickedly barbed talon in front of him and flexes it.
"This is all I need to deal with magic."
*Ombligo sighs.* "You don't have a clue...Anyway, if you're going to be that way, I also bring my friend Mahler here. He goes where I go, and we're really an unstoppable force of good!"
"The stone man?"
"Yup!"
"He looked powerful. I'd enjoy testing myself against him."
Gail comes back a few minutes, a indifferent look on her face. "They'll bring some out in a few minutes," she says to the bridman.
The birdman nods, though his eyes narrow. "That you. But.. that wasn't necessary."
Shrugging to himself, Stoltz looks about once more to see if the dwarf had been with anyone else from the group before leaving, and this time his gaze falls upon an unmistakable sight - the squid-creature that had left with the elderly man. Mildly surprised by this, he approaches the table the creature was seated - er, floating at - and notes others were there as well. "Ho! Comrades! Pardon my intrusion...this a private gathering ya'll are having?"
"Nope! Come on in!"
"You came here to eat, and they wouldn't serve you. I consider it necessary." "Pull up a seat. There are plenty around."
He glances sidelong at the armadilloman from earlier.
"Nail," he says simply.
"Thank ya kindly!" With a friendly grin, the armadillofolk unslings his rifle from his back so it won't get in the way and props it beside his seat as he sits. He blinks when the birdman addresses him. "Hm?"
"..my name is Nail," he clarifies, his interest caught by the rifle. "What is that?"
"Ah! I see. Pleased to make your acquaintance then, Nail!" He follows the birdman's gaze and chuckles softly. "Oh, that? A simple device of the Ancients. It's called a rifle, and it serves me as well as a bow serves an archer."
"..what does it do?"
The tinker blinks. "What does it do? Well...like my analogy, it functions much like a complex bow." He takes the firearm into his arms to better display it. "To put it simply, it fires small metallic projectiles called bullets at an extremly high velocity, which strike a target with enough impact to punch through flesh...and even further, should the rifle be modified to exert enough force.
He grunts.
"Looks more like a stick to me."
Stoltz frowns at this comment, his pointed ears drooping slightly. "Well, I suppose one could see it as such if one is unfamiliar with such things...but I assure you, it is much more complex than any stick. I built it with my own two hands after all."
The birdman nods, his sharp claws resting idly on the table. "I tend to use my hands more.. directly."
Glancing at the claws in question, the tinker chuckles once again. "I see...and quite efficient they are, I'd imagine. But unlike you, my hands are not so adept at combat...mine are for crafting, not for brawling."
"An unfortunate weakness. Nothing you can help, though."
His grin returns as he props his rifle against the chair again. "Well my friend, I do not see it as a weakness. Your natural gifts just differ from mine. But make no mistake, I shall do my best to benefit the group with the skills I've developed. With enough experience and materials...ohhh, the things I could create! It'd make your feathers stand on end! Heh heh heh!!"
"Ha!" he exclaims. "We shall see, little one. Hopefully you can deliver on that promise."
"Sounds interesting. I'd like to see how it all works, but it sounds like it'd all go over my head. You have any other inventions with you?"
Stoltz looks from the birdman to the female that was sitting with them. "Other inventions? Well...eheh...I'm afraid not. All I have is my rifle, my goggles, and my pocketwatch. I've been devoting my spare time as of late to a rather extensive project, you see."
"And what type of project would that be, if you don't mind me asking?" Gail asks, tilting her head inquistively.
The tinker smiles. "Not at all! Inquisition shows an active mind, after all. It's called...a steamsuit. A much more complex creation of the Ancients than my rifle."
"A steamsuit?" Gail repeats, her brow furrowing. "And what would you do with this steamsuit?"
"Is that some sort of armor?"
"It doesn't sound very comfortable..."
The armadillian seems thoughtful for a moment, trying to properly word a reply. "Well...it's like a suit of armor...but it's much more than that! Enhanced by technology, it's capacities are far greater than even the most well refined of dwarven armor! It can provide the user with an incredible boost of strength, durability, and speed, depending on how it's configured. And it can bring an immense amount of firepower to bear! More than several of my rifles could hope to match..."
"Such a thing would be far too bulky for battle."
Stoltz laughs outright at this. "Not at all! Sure, it will be large. It has to be, to fit someone of my size! But with the proper resources, it'll be quite efficient, just you wait and see. Why, if the frame were light enough, it could even mimic your capability of flight, my friend!"
"Hmmph! You would be encasing yourself in a tomb of steel!" "Flight? No. You cannot 'build' flight. The only time this armor of yours, this steamsuit, will be in the air is right before it hits the ground."
"Well...in theory, I should say." He grins. "I've yet to see one actually fly...I've only seen one, and it's frame was too heavy for such usage. But on the other hand, it's land-speed was quite remarkable."
Gail nods at the tinker, before rubbing her burning eyes. "Ugh...". She then rises, strecthing sleepily as she tries to focus. "Well, it's late...Good night." The tired paladin then heads up to bed, holding back a yawn as she ascends the stairs.
The tinker shakes his head at the birdman. "Not so! The theory is quite sound, if only a theory! I'm sure I could make it work, if I were to try! Though that wasn't my original intention...my steamsuit will be designed for combat supremacy." He chuckles at the thought. "With enough work, I could make something far more fearsome to face on the battlefield than any simple sword or bow or claw."
"Flight is not something you can simply create. I have soared into battle with my clanlings, falling from the sky like comets to tear our foes limb from limb, biting through their necks and bathing in their still-warm blood. I have torn the very wings off a gargoyle to let it plummet to the rocks below. No wings of steel will ever let you accomplish that. You may leave the ground, but there is more to flying than that."
The tinker shrugs at this somewhat brutal depiction. "That may or may not be true...but like I said, my intention is not to fly. Not yet. My purpose with the steamsuit is to create something unrivaled in land-based combat. After all, even a hatchling learns to move on the land before taking to the sky, does it not?"
The birdman shrugs. "I'll believe it when I see it. But if you do manage to create such a battlefield terror, I'd be more than happy to help you test it." He clenches his right claw tightly. "Though I wouldn't have too high hopes."
The armadillian can't help but chuckle at this response. "Sounds good to me. Someone to help with field-testing once the suit is finished would indeed be nice."
Nail nods. "Then it's a plan. But for now, it is time for rest. Tomorrow will be telling."
Stoltz nods as well, pulling his silver pocketwatch from the vest pocket which held it and checking it curiously. "Indeed. It is much later than I'd expected to be turning in."
Without another word, the birdman takes his leave and heads towards his room.

Posted by: Alpha Sun May 07, 2006 12:44 pm
((I see that if I want to be part of much of this I'm going to have to get rid of my social life)) Tanis didn't really have much to do, so as people left the warehouse, he decided to sit outside and watch the sky. He usually did as it often projected thoughts into his mind.
He absently jingled the recently aquired money in his pouch. Should he spend it on anything yet? He had a few ideas of what to spend it on, but most of them would require saving up. Increasing the power of his headband would be useful, as it would likely increase the potency of his spells. Or doing the same for his cape. Those two were the expensive options. Or, he could always buy some better armour. Mithril chainmail or breastplate would be nice to wear in battle.
Whilst thinking about this and other topics in general, Tanis began to sing quietly ad old song his brother had taught him in catfolk. As he did, he wondered where Kria had got to and how many bangles she'd bought.

Posted by: Tarethen Sun May 07, 2006 2:47 pm
(( I know what you mean, Alpha. I leave for work related and vacation related reasons, and there is already so much RP going on. o_O; ))

Posted by: Dark Maiden Sun May 07, 2006 4:26 pm
Kayla sits in the warehouse for some time, her arms crossed over her chest. Eventually, she gets bored. "I could use a drink." Kayla's stomach begins to growl and she blushes. "Maybe some food, too." Kayla leaves the warehouse and heads for Hassan's tavern. The tiefling enters like a normal person would this time, but stops dead in her tracks when she sees some of the others from her group gathered at a table. Kayla chooses to sit at a table alone. She places 2 gold coins on the counter. After she receives her key, she tucks it into her pouch. The tiefling moves to a table in a corner and waits for a waitress to come by.
"Good evening. What can I get you?"
"A mug of ale, please. Also, if you have anything good to eat, I'd like that as well."
"10 gold for the meal, 4 copper for the ale."
Kayla hands her 12 gold pieces.
"Keep the change."
The waitress leaves to get her food and comes back later with Kayla's food and her ale.
"It sure is nice to have some real food rather than rations."
Kayla starts eating what's in front of her, taking sips of ale in between.
((If anyone ever wants to RP with me, my SNs are...
AIM: Celeste chan
YAHOO: celeste_delacroix
Oh, btw guys, I know how you feel. These threads move WAY too fast. ))

Posted by: Wandering Dezorian Sun May 07, 2006 6:37 pm
((Eh, let them. We'll start our own, slower-moving sect.)) Arbeiten returns from the store, his purchases rattling in his bag. This was a much larger party than he had anticipated, but the goddess' will be done. He'd manage all right, if the other healer was worth his salt.
The half-giant settled down on a barrel in an alleyway beside the inn most of the party had settled in. Here he could see the people moving by, and would see if and when the team left, but this way he also felt somewhat alone. He wasn't at all comfortable with other people, but he had to make the effort. Still, having some time to himself was important, at least till he aclimated. Recharge the batteries, so to speak.
Closing his eyes, and trusting to his goddess to warn him of any danger approaching, the half-giant began meditating on life, on the journey ahead, and on the light at the end.
((Purchases- Pearl of power, lvl 1, x5))

Posted by: Lord Oddeye Sun May 07, 2006 6:57 pm
The newcomer just sat down next to a crate and stood there. But because of the growing obscurity, it was difficult for Morgan to identify this person of the group. Aware that there is no point to stay there anymore, he finally leaves the warehouse and heads for the nearest and probably only inn of Hassan. Since he had a good meal earlier in the ship, he just rents a room for 10 gold pieces, goes upstair to enters in it and sits on the bed.
"It is not the end of my day yet..." he says to himself as he opens his spellbook.

Posted by: Dark Maiden Mon May 08, 2006 12:51 am
Kria kicks the door to the tavern open and frowns; looking around inside, wondering if Tanis was in here. She entered the main table area and looked around, mumbling to herself about him and his scatterbrained ways. The Catfolk sighs and sees some other people around. She grins, noting one of the hooded people. She abruptly pulls up a seat and frowns. "Hey, You, Gilliam and Dam. What's with the cloak fixation? Bangles are prettier!"
Kayla lifts her head, looking at Kria intently.
"I prefer the darkness, that's all."
"But...purple is cooler than black! What's your favorite color?"
Kayla chuckles half-heartedly.
"I've never taken the time to worry about things like that, truth be told."
Kria pouts and slams a fist into the table. "Colors are the most important thing! They make bangles pretty!"
"For those who wish to be seen, perhaps."
Kayla takes a sip of her ale.
"Not for people like me."
"Everyone needs a bangle I think a grey jewel would go great...Take the cloak off. So I can see what you are. It's annoying. Even Gilliam pulled his hood down!" She peered intently at the Person in the cloak.
"If you promise not to scream or attack me like most other people do."
Kria tilts her head. "Go for it?"
Kayla pulls back the hood of her cloak. Crimson hair spills over her shoulders and falls against her back. Her skin is smooth and pale, and she has light blue eyes. The only thing so far that marks her as not being human is the fact that her eyes have slits in them. She then opens her mouth to speak, fangs now clearly visible.
"Do you have some idea why I don't show my face, now?"
Kria again blinked, and studied and then clapped her hands together. "Oh! Don't worry; I know how to dye Colors! We can change that red to a nice blonde, maybe silver? Ohh! Purple maybe?"
"No offense, but I like my hair the way it is."
Kayla picks up a piece of fruit with her fork and eats it.
"I'm actually surprised that the eyes and fangs didn't scare you." Kayla speaks softly.
"But...but...Purple is nicer! And why? Have you seen some of the freaks in our group? That Birdman looks like he's psycho or something! Those eyes...eww! And Dam...his hair is hideous!" She giggled, and sighed, leaning back, apparently thinking. "It's nice to see another gal along. I mean...there is her..." Kria pointed to Gail. "But, She's all Holier than thou and that's...icky."
"Well, I suppose you have a point."
Kayla looks at Gail and then Kria, raising an eyebrow.
"Is she a paladin, or a priest?"
Kayla lowers her voice.
Kria turned and looked over, frowning. Tanis would know from something she was wearing but unless paladin's had special bangles..."Um, is there a big difference?"
"It depends, but I've not had good experiences with paladins, thus far."
Kayla sighs.
"Considering my profession, it's not much of a surprise."
"Hm? Well, Tanis did once have to tell one the evil looking blasts of energy I was firing at people didn't mean I was evil. Oh dear...If we get into one, our first battle is gonna be funny huh?" She smiled broadly at the Humanesque girl, eyes sparkling with mirth.
"Spells... You must be a mage, then."
"I can't cast spells silly! And I'm not wimpy enough to not be able to beat things with a sword. I do...um, what was it, Tanis said it earlier...ummm...Oh dear!" Kria seemed to have quite honestly forgotten what she was again.
"O...k..." Kayla quirks a brow.
"Ah! I remember now! I'm a Warlock!" She grins.
"A warlock...huh? I've heard of them, but I've never seen them."
"Yup. Blah blah blah Dark powers in exchange for some pact or bond made eons ago and so on."
"I see..."
Kayla looks out the window for a moment.
"It's really getting late, isn't it?"
"Buh? It's just getting good! Night time is the best! The pretty stars, and all the dark thingies around no one else can see but me usually..." She frowns, stopping her ramblings. "Oh! Are you sleepy?"
"A little."
Kayla turns back to Kria.
"You can see in the dark?"
"Um, hello...Cat heritage?" She giggles nodding. "Yup! It's handy."
"Yes, I suppose you're right."
Kayla nods.
"Seeing in the dark does indeed come in handy."
"Especially when trying to sneak away without paying. The amount of time's I've had to do that...Eheh." She grins, scratching the back of her head sheepishly.
"I would have never guessed."
Kayla stands up and stretches.
"Well, I think it's time for me to go to sleep. It's been a long day for me."
"Byebye..." Kria also stands up, idly looking for Tanis, and pouting when she can't see him.
Kayla pulls the hood of her cloak back over her head and walks upstairs.

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Mon May 08, 2006 1:56 am
It is late, very late at night. Or even earlier in the morning if you wish to look at it that way. There really shouldn't be a lot happening at three o' clock in the morning, but a few hardy souls are awake. Other, more nocturnal beings are as well. Hunting.
Sorel's pet owl is one of these, flying high above the town watching for a mouse or rodent to dive upon and consume. But during her hunting, she spies the other hunters of the night...
Demons seem to be absolutely slaughtering the town guards. They are doing it in complete silence, as well.
Lunauga hightails it back to the docks to get Sorel, screeching all the way.
A few people groggily wake up and shake their fists at the bird, oblivious of the silent slaughter proceeding under their very noses.
Meanwhile, Kria is wandering around outside, looking for Tanis. She frowns and peers ahead, sighting a horrible bearded devil run a patrolling guard through with a glaive. She starts screaming at the top of her lungs, running away from them. "TANIS TANIS TANIS TANIS TAAAAANIS! Get the icky things away! Damsel in distress here! RED ALERT! AAAAAAAA!"
A team of three devils wielding horrid bone glaives turn towards Kria. The devils grin terrifyingly, then vanish to reappear flanking Kria in a triangle formation.
Kria frowns, and tries to scream. "OH SOMEONE HELP ME!" Kria finds that she can't speak at that moment. Kria looks around in despair, and then she tries again to scream, as she gets out her bastard sword. I'm taking one of these bastards with me...
Kria raises her hand to summon her fell power, but a comical spurt of flame shoots out to no effect.
Meanwhile, Sorel sees his owl freaking out and vaguely hears someone scream before being cut off prematurely.
Stoltz hears a far away noise, can't tell really what it is. It's very shrill, so it's probably a seagull...
Kria ducks and jumps out of the way as two of the devils swing their glaives at her clumsily.
Stoltz looks up from the blueprints and frowns at the shrill cry. He had nothing against birds, but at the moment he didn't desire to be distracted. Getting up from the floor, he moves to the room's window with the intention of closing it, but spares a moment to look out at the sleeping town.
Sorel sees a fight in the distance as Kria jabs the third devil with her sword, then kicks it back as it tries to pin her down.
((AoO Hit. 4 damage.))
Sorel summons a black bear, the beast emitting a defiant roar as it appears.
One of the devils notices Sorel and grins in his direction.
The demon that tried to grapple Kria falls over as the warlock kicks him away and begins to flee. The others jab at her with their glaives, inflicting two nasty wounds.
((19 damage after DR.))
"Run, little one, run for our fun, run, run, run, yum yum," one of them sends telepathically, crudely in Common.
Kria screams in pain, but is free of the annoying things for a bit. She tries again to scream as she uncorks a potion in her belt and swiftly drinks up.
((12 HP healed.))
Everything is eerily quiet as the devils vanish, only to reappear around Kria in the same formation. Kria looks around, resisting the urge the urge to fall to her knees in despair...They'd just appear beside her...Time to fight back.
Sorel casts Call Lightning, summoning more of nature's power to his aid. Clouds begin to form overhead and thunder rumbles.
The bear charges one of the devils, slashing it with its mighty claws. The devil counters by poking the bear with its glaive before it fully reaches him.
((AoO Hit. 4 damage+ wound to the bear. Bear deals 3 damage after DR to the Bearded Devil.))
Lunauga flies around, shrieking at the top of its lungs
Kria gestures at the Devil fighting the bear. A purplish blast of energy in the vague form of a shrieking skull bursts from her finger to slam into the monster, burning it slightly. The devils retaliate, but only a single blow lands, injuring Kria more.
((10 Damage to the Devil the beat is fighting. Shaken for 1 round. 10 damage to Kria, loses 2 HP due to bleeding.))
Nail bolts upright in his bed, the simultaneous sounds of lightning and the roar of some sort of animal waking him from his sleep. He'd seen enough in his time to know what those kinds of sounds in the middle of a quiet town ordinarilly meant. The birdman runs to the window, wearing nothign but his bedclothes and his tooth necklace, and takes flight into the sky to see what the commotion is.
Stoltz frowns as he stares up at the sky. Oddly sudden storm...and no rain...
The Catfolk coughs, beginning to get hurt. Like Seriously. But she'd not give up. Her bangle empire...it...can't end here!
A group of three devils round the alley and sight Sorel, vanishing to reappear around him in a triangular formation.
Arcdragnbreth: ... that sucks.
Nail sees the melee forming Kria and Sorel quite clearly. Similar melees are breaking out around the city, all in complete silence.
Sorel calls a bolt down on one of the devils by him, gesturing to the sky, who answers with blinding power, cascading electricty into one of the bearded ones.
((Save failed, Devil2 takes 11 damage.))
A lightning bolt zaps the now burnt devil, causing it to blink in confusion.
With an ear-splitting, wordless cry of pure rage, Nail dives straight down towards the group of devils surrounding the old druid. Claws outstretched before him, the birdman tears into the evil creature.
((Hit, Hit. 48 damage total, Bearded Devil dies!))
Lunauga swoops down to the inn, past windows on every level of the building, shrieking at the top of his lungs
Graigus, despite sitting right in the path of the devil onslaught, is passed by, the monsters not assigning any threat to someone that looks like a beggar that didn't even notice them.
Graigus wakes up, startled at the thunder raging in the skies after a clear day.
Stoltz frowns at all the avian screeching, and is about to investigate further when he sees an owl fly past his window. "Odd...were you making all that noise, owl? Awful loud for yer size, aren't ya?"
: "...online," Gilliam whispers as he is roused from his self repair cycle in his room.
Lunauga shrieks into Stoltz's face and flies out the window
Gilliam exits his room, oddly enough still in his armor.
: "What is happening?"
"Owl..." Dam says, looking up before looking out the room. "Might be the old man's..."
Ombligo: "It is! Sorel's in trouble!!"
"Huh..." Dam says, seeing nothing but hearing others in the tavern awaken.
The Celestial Bear summoned by Sorel slays one of the devils in complete silence as the others only now start to wake. The devil's corpse dissolves into fire and ash.
Gail stirs, rising gorggily as the owl screams on. It takes her a while to realize what exactly was making the racket, but at the magic creature's cry, she grabs her sword and shield, running out of the room.
The devils move to flank Kria as the two devils ignore Nail for the moment and focus on Sorel.
Dam cloaks himself, moving silently down the stairs and out into the street.
One glaive strikes both Kria and Sorel, biting into their flesh.
((Hit, Hit. 9 damage to Kria, 7 to Sorel.))
Sorel calls down another bolt at the same Devil as the bear goes crazy again.
((15 damage to another Devil.))
Nail screams a silent cry of fury as he tears into the next devil with pure abandon.
"Gah!" Covering his ears, Stoltz shakes his head and watches the owl fly off. "What in the world...?" Rubbing his temples to try to ward off a headache, the tinker leaves his room to take a walk and clear his head, taking his rifle along for good measure.
VoxPVoxD: 15 more damage from the Bear over two attacks
"Whatever it takes! Damn these things!" But no sound came out. Kria begin at sniffle. She didn't want to die.
Gilliam tromps out, Gail then makes her way out of the tavern, calling to her awake companions. "Wake the others, then. We'll need to leave immediately beofre this gets out of hand."
Gilliam notes this and turns his head for a moment. "Stay alert, there's magic in the air, and not the fairy tale kind."
Seeing other members of the group awake as he heads down the stairs, Stoltz frowns curiously. "Hey...the little squid, the golem, and the big guy with the armor...what are ya'll doing up?
Ombligo pauses as thunder booms and he senses magic.
Ombligo: "T...There's no mistake! That's Sorel's spell! Follow me!!" *Ombligo says, heading towards the direction of the lightning.*
Gilliam tromps along, following the floating ball of magic. The troop arrives at the central melee just as another group of three devils arrive to reinforce the monsters already there.
: "Barbazus!... Blast, I can't remember much... Don't let them surround you..." Gilliam's tone changes to one of anticipation. "I have something in store for them that you don't want to be in the way of..."
Battle 1!
((No map available.))
Enemies: 2 Barbazus flanking Kria, 2 flanking Sorel. 3 Barbazus arriving via an alley 200' to the north.
Ombligo and Co. start 60' from Sorel, who is in turn 70' from Kria.

Posted by: Aldur Mon May 08, 2006 2:00 am
Kria grits her teeth in frustration, taking one more step back and blasting at the already Glabrezu. Ranged Touch: 18 base I hit. Damage: 8. And by the way. http://s38.photobucket.com/albums/e121/Mussolini2333/?action=view&current=icastgay.jpg
hp: 12.

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Mon May 08, 2006 2:14 am
Sorel crouches in a defensive posture, raising his staff into the air. The sky splits open, lightning streaking into the chest of a Barbazu. ((Call a bolt down onto the Barbazu I've been attacking. 14 Damage, REF 18 for half)) The bear roars soundlessly, before mauling into another devil.
((Hit, hit, hit. 8 Damage after DR))

Posted by: Critical Mass Mon May 08, 2006 2:51 am
Nail tosses the carcass of the devil away, turning towards Kria and speeding towards her on wings of fury. For just a moment, a high-pierced screech of pure blood-lust can be heard as the rampaging birdman passes between the two silence fields.
((27 damage after DR to an unharmed devil flanking Kria, followed by a grapple check of 25 thanks to Improved Grab.))

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Mon May 08, 2006 3:15 am
The map supercedes what I said earlier. Map: Two glaives strike Nail as he heedlessly charges. ((AoOs, Hit, Hit, Miss. 18 damage to Nail, Nail loses 2 HP/round.))

Posted by: Knight_019 Mon May 08, 2006 3:48 am
: Sorel! Raaaaaaaaaaaaargh!!! *Mahler begins to charge forth, his right fist chambering back behind his head. Running straight for the strange, bearded creature, he spins his body around, slamming his fist in its direction with all his might. These things would not harm his friend.*
((Mahler charges 5 spaces NE, PA 2
1d20 + 13 + 2 - 2 = 17 + 13 = 30.
Damage
1d10 + 8 + 2 = 1 + 10 = 11.))

Posted by: Wandering Dezorian Mon May 08, 2006 4:18 am
Arbeiten strides out of the nearby alleyway, a chain appearing as if from nowhere in his hand, a silvery shield on his other arm. He spins his shield arm around him, sprinkling a silvery dust onto the ground, and roars in a deep voice, "Those who are wounded, to me! The Goddess will protect you!"
Action: Move east 30'. Cast Magic Circle against evil, 10', on self.
And I just checked with TUM- These demons count as summoned creatures, since they aren't naturally found on the material plane.
AC: 24 +2 (spell)
Note that I have reach with my weapon.

Posted by: Rusty Mon May 08, 2006 4:18 am
((Aiming for the injured Bearded Devil near Kria. If I have to move, so be it.)) *Ombligo decides that between Mahler and Sorel, Sorel and Nail might be safe...so he turns his attention to the devils near Kria.* : "Please be okay, Sorel...Eat this, baddie! Lightning Bolt!"
*Ombligo stretches out one tentacle, a bolt of lightning shooting out at the already injured Bearded Devil near Kria and the summoned bear.*
((2 4 3 6 3 5 = 23 damage.
Ref save 20 for half.))

Posted by: Nightmare Mon May 08, 2006 4:35 am
In response to the owl's screeching at the window a single thought pops into the Gorrik's mind from the armor he wore. It really bothers me when something is loud enough to disturb my meditation. Check outside to see what exactly is going on.
Gorrik gets up groggily and bitter from being awoken by an inanimate object in the middle of the night. The dwarf then notices Sorel's owl hooting frantically outside of the window. Gorrik sticks his head out and replies to his brother's spirit as if it's a normal occurence by now. What really bothers me, is when devils are running around the streets! We've got to get moving and help those already out there! Gorrik grabs his gear and heads out of the inn and charges towards the disturbance.
May the strength of the Light be with you brother, was the soul's only comment.
((When I get some more info on the whole mount type thingy, I'll post my action. As I'm rather clueless as to all the rules and regulations regarding a mount.))

Posted by: Alpha Mon May 08, 2006 7:33 am
((Right. I have no idea where Tanis is. I last had him outside the warehouse where we met Derrik and didn't move him inside at all. And I rolled a listen check of 18: 15+3 if that helps in any way))

Posted by: Aldur Mon May 08, 2006 9:51 am
(It's around 3am. He'd be asleep. Until the noise.))

Posted by: Lord Oddeye Mon May 08, 2006 10:26 am
((I think by now Morgan must be asleep in the inn's room as well. Rolled a listen check of 1 : 8 + 3 ranks - 10 asleep))

Posted by: Dark Maiden Mon May 08, 2006 1:23 pm
((Listen: 15. Considering the window in Kayla's room is open, and the owl is screeching at the top of her lungs, I'd say 15 is enough)) Kayla bolts up out of bed when she hears screeching and rubs her head. The tiefling moves towards the window and her eyes go wide at what she sees.
"Demons... Why the hell are there demons in the streets?"
Kayla, still wearing her rogue garb, grabs all of her gear. Everything except her armor, that is.
"There is no time. It'll take me too long to put it on."
Kayla puts her cloak on, pulling the hood over her head before making her way downstairs.
((I'm not sure how long it'll take to get outside, but once she gets near the door, she'll start using move silently. Btw, I know it's risky not wearing armor, but it would have taken a minute to get it on))

Posted by: Arcdragnbreth Mon May 08, 2006 1:30 pm
((What was omitted from the events leading up to the battle was that Dam left the tavern; I'm assuming Marine didn't include him because I was forcibly removed from the computer before I could roll spot. He should be with Gilliam and the others.
As such...
Spot: 1d20 + 6 (ranks) + 1 wis = 18. He sees things, all right...
Hide: 1d20 +2 (ranks) +4 (dex) = 19. Double move action (though only moving at half speed) to behind the bush, assuming Dam starts next to Ombligo.
Graigus is coming from outside the town; dunno where he'd be, but he's moving at full speed.
Another important fact that was omitted from inside the chat was that Lunauga and Gail are waking up everyone in the tavern / inn. Dunno when Marine will rule, but I assume everyone will be awake by the end of this round, out the door by the next, and where Gilliam is by the round after that.))

Posted by: Kaihaku Mon May 08, 2006 4:04 pm
(I won't be able to be online long enough to take part in this until Wednesday. Arc, please make full use of the doctor. You won't exhaust his supply of spells, trust me, so go for it.))

Posted by: Tarethen Mon May 08, 2006 6:04 pm
((Listen check. Not sure what I need, but here's what I got. If I turns out I hear something, I'll edit in a post later. 1d20 = 6 + 4 Ranks + 2 Wis + 2 for Alertness = 14 ))

Posted by: Riegien Mon May 08, 2006 8:08 pm
Bozak sits upright in his bed, hearing the screech of the owl and the yells from outside. Grabbing his swords and shoving them through his sash, he runs out into the street. "Ombligo, what is going on?" Surveying the area, he spys the demons surrounding the druid.
"Sorel.."
Looseing his sword from its scabard, he moves towards the throng, bent on defending the elder.
((double move, should put me next to the green patch 2 spaces below the barbazu))

Posted by: Alpha Mon May 08, 2006 9:59 pm
Because it was the way he'd been living for many months now, Tanis didn't bother to rent a room at the inn. Instead, he decided to sleep under the stars. Stupidly. At about 3AM, Tanis is awoken. Feeling something that's likely a boot nudging at him, Tanis opens his eyes, looking around. There's a group of three devils around him, but being fought by a man in a dark cloak. All of this is happening in complete silence. The man nudged you with a foot while fighting. Seeing there's little he can effectively do, Tanis rises and runs off in the direction of the inn, seeking help.
((Unfortunately, Tanis was pwned, as those in the chat will see ))

Posted by: Arcdragnbreth Mon May 08, 2006 10:03 pm
((After learning you need a full attack to hit even when wielding double weapons, I'd like to change Dam's action to move to the opposite side of the southmost demon attacking Sorel. It's a flank for Sneak Attack damage. If I can't do it, consider this my attack for next round.
Attack 1d20 + mods (+8, I think) = 25
Damage = 1d6 + 1 + 2d6 (sneak) = 14 damage ))

Posted by: DragonmasterDon1 Tue May 09, 2006 12:03 am
It was a wondrous sleep. Excitement filled the rat's mind, so much to see and do. Langston Highbrave had never ventured far into the world; he was one who stuck near and dear to the circus even though it travelled far and wide. Occasional trips to the bars? Sure, that wasn't out of the question, but exploring the countryside in any way, shape, or form was. In all honesty he was surprised he had even found where he was going, and in many ways he was more than relieved.
He slept like a rock, and then all hell broke loose outside. It was not long before the cacophony of mild carnage penetrated his sleep. Groggy, the rat awoke dragged asleep until his brain caught up with him. Whatever was happening was urgent; he dressed and ran downstairs to investigate.

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Tue May 09, 2006 12:31 am
Gail wakes the rest of the party in the inn. ((Someone said this was your action, Cy. It does burn your turn. If not, I'll edit.)) Tanis gets up and begins to run, but suddenly feels a great pain... then numbness as two glaives slash open his sides and he collapses. In the background, he can barely hear the mysterious man that awoke him battling on.
((Hit, Miss, Critical Hit! 33 damage. Tanis is at -4, and loses 2 HP/round until healed.))
Kria tries to blast one of the devils with eldritch energy, but fails to avoid their jabbing polearms, her consciousness leaving her as the blood loss becomes too much...
((Concentration failed. 2 AoOs. 1 hit. 11 damage, -2 HP from bleeding. Kria is at -1 HP.))
Sorel's bolt slams into the dazed Barbazu, injuring it further as his bear continues his assault on the foes of nature.
Nail rips into a Barbazu, but his wounds bleed freely even as he latches onto the monster.
((-2 HP. Devil is grabbed.))
Mahler charges forward, slamming into the devil tht Sorel had been attacking, his stone fists doing surprisingly little.
The devil dodges most of Ombligo's lightning blast, the Bearded Devil panting hard, barely holding onto the mockery of life he possesses.
Gorrik arrives at the battle, as does Kayla and the doctor.
Dam rushes up and jabs his target, but the devil's skin is very resistant to the damage.
Graigus manages to find his way to the ruckus, but attracts the attention of a squad of Barbazus as he does so...
((Arc, your luck is amazing. Simply amazing. Not in a good way, either.))
The two devils flanking Sorel ignore the others and concentrate on the druid even as more of their brethren teleport into the fray. Sorel parries one glaive blow with his staff, but the devil behind him jabs cruelly through part of his chest, soaking his humble robe with blood.
((Miss. Critical Hit! 36 damage to Sorel.))
A devil moves forward, suffering a claw swipe from the bear as it does so, but putting itself in a flanking position against Nail as it attacks the birdman. The other devil fights the bear, taking out a chunk of flesh from its shoulder. Nail dodges his blow.
((Hit! The bear takes 11 damage and suffers 2 HP loss/round. ))
Stoltz and Langston arrive just in time to see Gilliam push back his cloak to reveal a large chaingun.
: "This is my kind of shooting gallery..." Gilliam says with a dark chuckle as the barrels on the gun begin to spin. A deafening roar emits from the gun as a stream of bullets spew forth, but the devils duck under it.
: "Can't dodge forever, you bastards..."

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Tue May 09, 2006 12:59 am
Sorel's eyes flash back and forth between the devils flanking him. As they attack, he weaves his staff between their blows. Had the Barbazus not been cloaked in silence, his ears might have alerted him as a fiend's polearm slices through the air, making contact with his chest.
The weapon made no sound as it cut through his robe and broke his skin. No one heard the crunch of his ribs beneath the blow. There was only terrifying silence and cool, inviting darkness as Sorel sank to the ground in a pool of his own blood.
((Stabilization check failed. Sorel is at -3, losing 3HP a round))
The bear Sorel summoned skidded in blood, its own red mixed with the devil's black. The celestial beast was almost as close to death as its master, but it had the strength left to tear into the fiend that had wounded him.
((hit, hit, hit. 18 Damage after DR. Bear's at 3HP))

Posted by: Rusty Tue May 09, 2006 1:23 am
*Mere seconds into the battle, Ombligo sees his close friend fall before the pack of cowardly devils. Tears well up in his eyes as his very form crackles with electric energy.* : "...S...SOREL!!!!!!" *Ombligo, furious, moves to the right, blasting two Bearded Devil's in a rage of lightning.*
((SR check: natural 14 + yeah, I passed.
4 spaces to the right. Hitting 2 BD's.
6 2 2 4 1 4 = 19 damage
REF save DC 21 for half (yes, it just increased)
Edit: one fails, one saves))

Posted by: Lord Oddeye Tue May 09, 2006 1:53 am
((Damn, this topic moves so fast. I didn't even have the time to post my turn... well, I did actually but wasn't inspired at all this time. <.< This should have been posted before TUM's update but oh well, I modified it to fit with the situation.
In any case, Morgan is now up and awake, and he's going to join the battle as soon as he leaves the inn. Also, let me know if something's wrong))
It was night, a quiet and deep night. A light breeze blowed over the surroundings making bushes and trees' leafs rustle a bit, while the moon was lighting up everything with its weak, pale radiance. Someone could have expected it to be a common night, if it wasn't for a slight smell of burnt timber filling the air and a persistent crackling noise.
Morgan got in his hometown, or at least what was the remains of his former dwelling. There was crumbled walls here and there along with the reddening ashes and a few other buldings still standing were being progressively consumed by an eager fire. The young man made his way throught those ruins and eventually arrived before his familly's house. But it seemed that most of it had been spared from this unknown disaster. He drew nearer With a feeling of apprehension, he pushed the wooden door and opened it... but a ray of dark energy stroke him in the chest making him fall over his knees face down, half stunned. A chill, whispering voice came from inside : "Join us in the death....."
In an intense effort of his will, he finally raised his head up, only to be faced with the bright bolt of lighting coming right towards him...
Morgan starts out of his sleep as he hears the sound of a thunderbolt hiting the ground. But as he recovers full conciousness, he realizes that it wasn't part of his dream. Also, he could catch a shrill and persistent owl's screech coming from behind the room's window. But as he approached to open it, a loud striking noise came from the door behind him, followed by a feminine voice yelling about demons and battle in the streets.
In a trice, he seizes his staff and spellbook, opens the door and runs downstairs.

Posted by: DragonmasterDon1 Tue May 09, 2006 2:59 am
Rushing into the street with the others, Langston was shocked to see the melee that was seemingly well underway. "This is pretty serious!" he barked. "We gotta get in there quick!" And he ran in to find a better place to survey the situation. Seeing Kria fallen to the north, instinct told him to rush there but...he told himself there would be no way he'd get by the immediate group of foes without at least some support. He broke toward the tree near Bozak at full speed, hoping it would provide at least some cover as he looked for some way to either safely continue onward or help out in some other way.
((Run to the tree near Bozak, stopping two squares south of him and one to the right. Dodge to the Demon to the northeast of Sorel, hoping the others won't bother with an AoO (if they're movement even invokes an AoO) from Dam. Earliest I can post again will be tomorrow night after the Hershey Bears game if I'm still conscious. Sheets sent to Rusty and Arc as I probably won't have time after work before I leave.))
((Edit - I know I was probably seen running there so I think there's a penalty involved, but I rolled a Hide anyway.
Roll 10 + 15 = 25))

Posted by: Tarethen Tue May 09, 2006 3:30 am
Jerked from a rather restless sleep, Farain stood and shook his head after hearing the urgent yelling. "That's... definitely not good." Farain grabbed his bow and the quiver of arrows he has placed aside as he tried to sleep earlier in the night and made his way outside. He could hear sounds of the current battle, causing him to complete wake up. He saw more members of the group, some injured and some having just arrived, also. Farain also noticed the monsters that were around Sorel and Mahler. "This isn't good..."
((Move 30 ' to the right if Farain comes from the left side of the map below the building on the left lower corner.))
Farain pulled his bow out and withdrew an arrow, notching it and taking aim at the creature to Sorel's left:
(( 1d20 = 11 + 4(Bab) + 6(dex) + 1(magic) - 1(Size) = 21
2d6 = 4 + 5 + 6(str) + 1(magic) = 16))

Posted by: Cyrus Tue May 09, 2006 4:33 am
Gail rushed through the second story of the inn, slamming on doors and yelling as loud as her lungs would allow. They needed to move fast...the group had been caught off guard, and each second lost could cost them in blood. If only there was more time, she thought, thinking back to the armor left behind in her room, th flimsy bed clothes she was wearing...Just have to work with what I got. Not wanting to squander any more time, she tore down the stairs, knowing those whoever had woken up would join them soon. She flew out the door, diving into the melee erupting before her. Running past the wall of people that was beginning to form, she was able to move close to the group near Sorel's still body. She glared at the devils in front of her, scouring her mind to see if she could identify them...
[Double move 2 spaces behind Mahler. Kno(Religion): 11]

Posted by: Arcdragnbreth Tue May 09, 2006 7:20 am
Coventry moves nimbly to Sorel's side, placing a hand on the fallen druid before imparting healing magic upon the aged man. He nodded as the spell took affect, admiring his own work for a moment before returning his mind to the battle. ((Move to spot NW of Mahler.
Tumble: 1d20 + 14 (mods) = 25. No AoO for moving.
Concentration: 1d20 + 15 (mods) = 24. No AoO for casting spell
Heal: 1d20 + 12 (mods) = 21. Spell bypasses wound and healing is made.
Cure Serious Wounds: 3d8 +7 = 22 restored to Sorel.))
The old man, Dam thought, gritting his teeth. Alright... if that's the way these devils want to play, I think it's time to give them what they want. I'm not going to let them rape and pillage rampantly.
Still flanking the creature, the rogue wasted no time in pluging his dagger into the back of his enemy yet again, hoping to deal more damage with the pair of strikes than his first alone did.
((Attack the same Barbazu as before, both hits for sneak damage.
Attack1: 1d20 +4 (bab) +4 (dex) +1 (mwk) +1 (w. focus) - 2 (twf) - 4 (com. exp) +2 (flank)= 23
Damage: 1d6 + 1(str) +2d6 (sneak attack) = 11
Attack2: 1d20 +4 (bab) +4 (dex) +1 (mwk) +1 (w. focus) - 2 (twf) - 4 (com. exp.) +2 (flank)= 21
Damage: 1d6 + 1(str) +2d6 (sneak attack) = 12
If the Barbazu dies, move five feet to the northwest (into the fallen devil's former spot). Dodge to the Barbazu to the north.
Kno[Tactics]: 1d20 +4 (ranks) +4 (int) = 10. I'll take whatever info it nets me.))
Meanwhile...
She... she... the dwarf though, observing the fallen warrior before angrily turning back to the devils behind him. Determined to keep the devils off of the half-giant while he tended to Kria, the Dwarf stood as a guard staying between Arbeiten and the demon horde.
((Move 20 feet east, total defense.
Tumble: 1d20 + 8 (ranks) + 3 (dex) = 25. No AoO.))
<}-- Dam Dicem --{>
HP: 49 / 49
AC: 21 (+4 dex, +2 vest, +1 un. def., +4 com. exp.), dodge to SE Barbazu.
<}-- Graigus --{>
HP: 59 / 59
AC: 24(+3 Wis, +3 Dex, +2 bracers, +1 belt, +1 Monk, +4 total def.), dodge to the closest Barbazu to Graigus.
Stunning Fist: 7/7))

Posted by: Critical Mass Tue May 09, 2006 11:02 am
Thick droplets of blood splash onto the bearded devil from the horrid gash across the birdman's chest as Nail pushes up and off the fiend, his wings beating furiously to give him a small bit of advantage as he ascends from the ground to attack from above. The necklace of jagged teeth around the avian's neck flashes brightly with each attack, the potent magics of the item reacting violently with the Barbazu's sorcerous powers.
((Stop grapple, 5ft movement vertically up (or just enough to qualify as being "above"). 3 + 7 str + 5 BAB + 2 bane + 1 high ground = 18. I think that's a miss. Second attack 10 + 15 = 25. Hit for 4 + 7 str + 2 airborne strike + 7 bane = 20 damage.))
((If that first one somehow hit, it's 28 damage. Pretty sure it didn't though.))
((AC 17, HP 39))

Posted by: Aldur Tue May 09, 2006 11:21 am
Kria slumped to the ground, bleeding. Lots. Stabilisation check failed. At -2. Losing 3hp a round.

Posted by: Knight_019 Tue May 09, 2006 2:05 pm
: Hmmmm... *Mahler murmurs to himself. These creatures seemed to be tougher than he thought. No matter. With two mighty punches, Mahler once again lashes out at the strange, bearded creature before him.* ((Full Attack: Slam/Slam 1d20 + 13 + 2 (flank) = 8 + 15 = 23
1d20 + 13 + 2 (flank) = 6 + 15 = 21
Damage
1d10 + 8 = 5 + 8 = 13
1d10 + 8 = 1 + 8 = 9
If I somehow kill on the first slam, move 5' East and attack the one Dam is on))

Posted by: Wandering Dezorian Tue May 09, 2006 2:55 pm
Arbeiten grumbled, then shouted down to the collection of spellcasters as he jogged towards the downed catwoman, "Would someone mind getting rid of that silence spell? I can't hear myself think!" Action- double-move, north 10, east 40. Kria, I hope you've got a potion on you, or that someone can get rid of this spell.

Posted by: Dark Maiden Tue May 09, 2006 3:30 pm
Kayla moves out of the building and away from it. When she sees how bad things have really gotten, the tiefling grits her teeth and curses under her breath. "Damn, this isn't good. I need to do something." She moves to aid those near Sorel, but she finds she must move farther than she thought to get there.
[Kayla moves in the square SE of Dam]

Posted by: Alpha Tue May 09, 2006 4:22 pm
Tanis is on the ground, in a heap, and slowly dying as his lifeblood pours away. ((now at -6, losing 2HP a round)) ((Something to note. Tanis is off the map, and dying. I know you guys are pressed, but some help would be necessary. I don't want to have to leave the campaign this early. Thank you.))

Posted by: Dark Maiden Tue May 09, 2006 5:06 pm
((Ok, this is crazy...))

Posted by: Aldur Tue May 09, 2006 5:20 pm
((Only as crazy as Cedric getting that uber smack on Shaily. 'sides. It's kinda our own fault anyway. ^^ And can Arc even heal Sorel? Due to the silence effect?))

Posted by: Riegien Tue May 09, 2006 5:23 pm
Moving behind the devil that dam is attacking, Bozak unleashes his fury on the barbazu. Attack= d20= 16+2 flank + 8 str + 1 masterwork + 4 kiai smite =31 Damage = d10 = 2 + 8 str + 4 kiai smite = 14 damage

Posted by: Arcdragnbreth Tue May 09, 2006 6:24 pm
((... I forgot about the silence. This is why those who can dispel should do so.))

Posted by: Aldur Tue May 09, 2006 6:52 pm
(Umm...Arc, Morgan hasn't learnt it. Ombligo hasn't got it. And nor do the two clerics I believe...^^;;;; Also...with full plate, Arby can't move 50 at double move. only 40. Unless half giants move further?)

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Tue May 09, 2006 7:02 pm

QUOTE (Arcdragnbreth @ Tue May 09, 2006 2:20 am)
Coventry moves nimbly to Sorel's side, placing a hand on the fallen druid before imparting healing magic upon the aged man. He nodded as the spell took affect, admiring his own work for a moment before returning his mind to the battle. ((Move to spot NW of Mahler.
Tumble: 1d20 + 14 (mods) = 25. No AoO for moving.
Concentration: 1d20 + 15 (mods) = 24. No AoO for casting spell
Heal: 1d20 + 12 (mods) = 21. Spell bypasses wound and healing is made.
Cure Serious Wounds: 3d8 +7 = 22 restored to Sorel.))

((How did he double move, make a heal check, and cast a spell inside a Silence effect in one round?))

Posted by: Kaihaku Tue May 09, 2006 7:23 pm
((Just some brief notes since I only have wireless for a moment. Coventry has a movement speed of 50 so I don't believe he double moved. Also, Arc, you don't need to roll concentration checks since I can take pass nearly all of them by taking 10. Mobile Spellcasting acts as Spring Attack for spells if I'm not mistaken...which means I might be able to move outside of the Silence AoE then back in. If the silence spell negates my casting, even casting before enter the AoE, would it be possible to use my wand of CLW instead?
Right, good fortune. I might not be back until late and I might be unable to post but I shall return home tonight.))

Posted by: Critical Mass Tue May 09, 2006 10:09 pm

QUOTE (VoxPVoxD @ Tue May 09, 2006 7:02 pm)
((How did he double move, make a heal check, and cast a spell inside a Silence effect in one round?))

((The wounding glaives force the caster of a cure spell to make a CL check just to have an effect.))

Posted by: Arcdragnbreth Wed May 10, 2006 1:53 am
((Yeah, yeah... assume Coventry only does the heal check. And before you grumble, he can make it there in his move action.))

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Wed May 10, 2006 3:47 am
Bear and bolt alike rend into the devils, but fail to slay any. Anarion arrives at the battle as Farain charges out an sends an oversized arrow into the heart of the only unwounded devil in the first group. The arrow slams home, causing the monster quite some pain.
Bozak moves up and around to flank the northern devil with Dam, but is struck by a glaive as he does so. The weapon inflicts little damage, but the blood in the minor wound flows freely. The dragonman reaches his destination and whirls around to slice a deep wound in the opponent's chest.
((AoOs: Miss, Hit. 4 damage. Bozak is wounded.))
Seeing his opening, Dam jams his daggers into the sides of the creature's neck, causing twin gouts of blood to spurt forth. The monster roars inhumanly as its body burns away to sulfurous ash.
Nail's desperate attack claws apart the Bearded Devil, who dies with a furious shriek.
Mahler's fists leave the devil, the same one Dicem attacked earlier, a battered shadow of its former self... but it clings to life with a ferocity you've never encountered before.
One of the Bearded Devils feints to the left, then suddenly reverses his jab into a slash with inhuman force that removes the bear's head from it's body.
((Critical Hit. Bear is dead.))
Nail is jabbed lightly by the Devil under him, and his blood runs down to the ground freely.
((8 damage from a hit and the wound.))
Gilliam moves to the side, firing again and missing.
Two of the devils charge Graigus, slashing overhead with their glaives as the monk nimbly steps aside at the last minute, his clothing partially torn by the close call.
The other three newcomers teleport around to more advantageous positions.
The Devils move to flank Bozak, inflicting terrible wounds on him with their glaives as another grazes the Doctor.
((Hit, Hit, Hit. 24 damage to Boz, 9 damage to Doctor Coventry.))
Next turn!

Posted by: Rusty Wed May 10, 2006 4:02 am
*The electricity continues to pulsate through Ombligo's very being. As he growls, he lets out another, stronger lightning bolt - this time not just striking two devils - this time striking FOUR. The enraged Magic Creature lets out a word that...actually means absolutely nothing.*
: "http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/1/12/Pokemon3818-2.jpg/180px-Pokemon3818-2.jpg"
((Staying where I am.
SR check = natural 20.
Damage: 5 5 1 6 1 2 = 20 damage.
Ref save DC = 22.
))

Posted by: Wandering Dezorian Wed May 10, 2006 4:05 am
Arbeiten grabs his downed ally, and begins to carry her northwards. Soon, he hears the noise of battle, as sounds finally reach him once more. He laughed softly to himself... the goddess was still watching over him. He focused, willing the girl's wounds to close, and for a moment... it seemed like they wouldn't. Then with a sudden surge of power, the spell surged through whatever dark force had tried to hold it back.
To the birdman and the dwarf, he shouted, "To me, friends! The Goddess will protect you!"
Action: Drag/carry Kria north 10', east 10'. Drop shatter, cast cure moderate wounds.
Caster check, 10 + 5(lvl) +1 (domain) = 16. Just passed.
Heal rolls: 8 and 8! Kria gets 22 Hp back!

Posted by: Nightmare Wed May 10, 2006 5:50 am
Gorrik moves in for a swong at one of the foul devil's but misses, and nearly hacks into himself, but is fourtunate enough to avoid such a fate. ((rolls: 1: Crit miss. 8: no crit miss. Gorrik is two squares north of Bozak))

Posted by: Cyrus Wed May 10, 2006 6:02 am
Gail watches as Ombligo tosses yet another lightning bolt, frying the two closest devils to smoking, cracked corpses. Grateful for his power in this dire time, she nods her thanks and moves to Sorel, the way now free of the infernal soldiers. She kneeled, laying a palm on the staunched wound on old druid's chest as she prayed for deliverance. A healing white light flows forth, sealing the blow. Meanwhile, she keeps her eyes and blade trained on the devils to the north, ready to react wherever the fiends choose to strike.
[Move 1 square west, 4 squares north. Lay on Hands on Sorel: 15 HP. Fighting Defensively.]

Posted by: Arcdragnbreth Wed May 10, 2006 6:13 am
((Note that Bozak and Gorrik's actions were taken before Dam and Lang, respectively.)) Dicem moves quickly after the thunderbolt, his feet a flurry of motion as he shifted behind the devil. Shaking his head, he again out with a sneak attack, hitting where it hurt the most.
((Tumble Check: 15. Dam moves 15 feet to the spot east of the Barbazu NE of Sorel.
Attack: 1d20 + mods + flank = 21.
Damage: 1d6 + 1 + 2d6 (sneak) = 11
Lang easily moves around the bush to use Gorrik's flank to his advantage, but just barely misses hitting the evil creature.
((Tumble: 1d20 + mods = 25.
Attack: 1d20 + 6 (dex) + 1(rapier) + 3 (bab) + 2 (flank) 15.))
Even with two hits and two misses, the creature stood. It was then that Mahler lumbered forth, drawing back a stony fist before smashing the creature hard.
((Attack: 1d20 + 13 = 24
Damage: 1d10 + 8 = 17))

Posted by: Critical Mass Wed May 10, 2006 6:29 am
*His eyes red with fury, Nail lashes out with a claw and explodes a bearded devil's head before the fiend even realizes it's under attack. Ignoring the half-giant's call to the safety of the magic circle the birdman twists in mid-air, turning his attention to the devil's partner and tearing a large chunk from the creature's side with a quick swipe. The gush of blood flowing freely from the wounds stitching his chest and back slowly stems to a trickle, but the deep gashes refuse to entirely close.*
((Most damaged BD killed, second-weakest damaged for 9 after DR. AC 17, 32 HP, losing 3 HP a round and gaining 3 HP a round for a net of -0.))

Posted by: Alpha Wed May 10, 2006 7:28 am
Tanis bleeds ferociously. ((now at -8, losing 2HP a round. Help.))

Posted by: Wandering Dezorian Wed May 10, 2006 8:27 am
((Well where the heck are you, Tanis? I can't spot you on the map... Oh, and who else needs/wants healing? If no one else goes down this turn, I'm going to start boosting people's stats instead.))

Posted by: Lord Oddeye Wed May 10, 2006 12:38 pm
((Who the hell is Anarion? <_<)) Morgan rushes outside the inn, still following the girl who warned him of the imminent attack. He stops as she arrives before the body of an old man lying on the ground puting her hand over his chest, a small ray of bright light coming out of her palm. The corpses of ugly creatures with beard rest at their sides, while others can be seen in the distance.
((Knowledge [the planes] : 1d20 + 5 (int) + 9 (ranks) = 12 + 14 = 26: Passed I think))
"Bearded devils, I remember those ones. But something's wrong... why does everything seem so quiet?" He thinks as he focuses his mind to find out what could cause this heavy silence in such a violent battle.
((Spellcraft : 1d20 + 5 (int) + 9 (ranks) + 2 (synergy) + 3 (focus) = 8 + 19 = 27 : Passed))
A grave expression appears on his face as he realizes what's happening.
"Oh no... Ombligo!" He shouts at the magical creature, remembering his name. He then runs in his direction.
"Is there a way to dispel this silence field around the devils?" he asks, "I'm afraid I can't cast such a spell..."
((Morgan runs on the square left to Ombligo))

Posted by: Aldur Wed May 10, 2006 1:07 pm
((Kria is on Seventeen)) The Catfolk gets to her feet and lets out a shrill cry of fury, she chared towards the devil two spaces to the right of Graigus. She barrels into it slicing deep into it's infernal flesh, a insane spark in her eyes. My face...My beautiful face! I'll cut them! It's so totally like, time to play hardball!
((Partial charge:
1d20+Bab+Str+Masterwork = 20+3+2+1 = 26 to hit.
Confirming...
19. Confirmed!
Damage: 1d10+2x1.5 = 8+3x2 = 22 damage.))

Posted by: Alpha Wed May 10, 2006 1:23 pm

QUOTE (Wandering Dezorian @ Wed May 10, 2006 7:27 am)
((Well where the heck are you, Tanis? I can't spot you on the map...))

((By the warehouse where we met Derrik. I'm not sure there's any point in trying. Unless the NPC Marine's controlling does something, Tanis is going to die.))

Posted by: Knight_019 Wed May 10, 2006 2:27 pm
*Mahler is suddenly unsure of where he is. He looks around, finds himself in a different location, then notices the carcass of a barbazu demon on the ground, with imprints of his fists embedded in it.* : Odd, I wonder what came over me... *Mahler shrugs.*
((Arc's move stands.))

Posted by: Dark Maiden Wed May 10, 2006 3:51 pm
Kayla moves away from the others now that those demons are finished and moves to aid Nail. However, she is too far away to reach him for the moment. ((Kayla moves to the square two spaces south of the right side of the monument. Full Defense, jic))

Posted by: Riegien Wed May 10, 2006 5:36 pm
Bozak spins as he moves to his next opponent, putting as much force into the blade as he can as it scythes through the barbazu. 5ft step up to flank the barbazu Attack: d20= 20 Confirming crit = 6+4+8+1+2=21 Confirmed damage = d10= 2 + 12 str (1.5x for 2 handed wielding) x2 = 28 damage

Posted by: Kaihaku Wed May 10, 2006 6:02 pm
((I believe the devil beside the doctor is gone, show me where tanis is and I should be able to save him.))

Posted by: Aldur Wed May 10, 2006 6:15 pm
((he's not on the map. He's dying all alone far away. O_o))

Posted by: Rusty Wed May 10, 2006 8:11 pm
*Ombligo calms a bit down, seeing Sorel stable.* : "Ah...I don't have that spell, either. We better be careful!"

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Wed May 10, 2006 9:05 pm
Sorel stirs, his eyes flying open after Gail and Coventry's aid. With a great effort and the help of his staff, the still wounded old man stands, and casts his gaze about. Seeing Graigus nigh surrounded, Sorel begns the intonations of a summoning spell, before realizing those creatures would be a few seconds too late to be of any immediate aid. Instead, he calls a bolt of Nature's fury down into an infernal foe.
((a bolt on the devil currently up near Mahler on the next map. 12 Damage, Ref 18 half))

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Wed May 10, 2006 10:58 pm
Ombligo's lightning bolt tears through the first two devils, reducing them to smouldering ash, while still managing to hurt another pair of devils clear across the way. ((One saved for 10. 2 failed and died. 1 failed and lived.)) Mahler, Dam, Langston, and Bozak mercilessly wail on the devil left to them, but fail to kill it.
Kria charges insanely, dodging a glaive swipe to run through the devil nearest her. The devil roars in anger and agony alike as the bastard sword erupts from its back in a spray of blood. The monster seems to be on its last legs, only its infernal constitution keeping it in the fight...
Doctor Conventry, being a nice fellow, cheerfully moves out of the way when Gilliam makes clear his intention to shoot up the devil behind him. And he does.
WITH A VENGEANCE
The hail of bullets tears apart the devil in a spray of gore that swiftly dissolves to sulfurous ash.
((Burst Fire. Hit. 25 damage after DR to the Barb that failed its save against Ombligo's Bolt. Barbazu defeated!))
Farain moves up and fires an arrow at the bolted Barbazu. The arrow sticks in its chest.
((Hit. 19 for damage roll. 14 damage after DR))
Stoltz fires and misses.
Nail is grazed by another glaive as Kria nimbly dodges hers.
((Miss, Hit. 7 damage to Nail.))
A Barbazu runs out to jab at Gorrik with his polearm. The blow lands, dealing a slight wound to the dwarf.
((Hit. 7 damage to Gorrik+ wound.))
The final two Barbazus flank Graigus, but one slips, allowing the monk a counter attack.
((Hit, Critical Miss! 12 damage+wound to Graigus.))
Next turn!

Posted by: Aldur Thu May 11, 2006 12:35 am
Kria smirks sadistically as she slashs out at the same Barbazu. She would have cackled if she could speak. The warlock slashed down, two handed putting all her strength into it, the young catgirl surprisingly strong. And her blade sliced at the being, hopefully ending it's life.
(( Attack roll: 19.
...confirming: 5. No crit.
Hot.
Damage: 8+2x1.5= 11 damage total to barbazu.))

Posted by: DragonmasterDon1 Thu May 11, 2006 1:01 am
Langston continued to press the advantage of the overwhelmed opponent. Determined, he thrust forward again to land a strike on the demon he attacked in the previous round. Wretched little...whatever you are! he thought. ((Roll: 17 + 2 (Flank) + 3 (BAB) + 6 (Dex with WFin) + 1 (Rapier) = 29
Rapier Damage Roll: 3
Sneak Attack (Sacred Strike overcomes the DR, 3d8) = 8 4 8 = 20
Total Damage = 23, but I assume the initial 3 damage is lost to DR, so prolly 20))
Dodge to the other Barbazu nearby unless the current target isn't defeated this round, in which case Dodge to the one I'm attacking if I can do that. If I can't do that then...Dodge to the target he attacked.))
Edit: Five foot step in whatever direction Rieg needs it?

Posted by: Wandering Dezorian Thu May 11, 2006 1:02 am
Arbeiten's voice speaks gently, but it carries over the din of the battle. "May the wisdom of Mitula shine forth on this assemblage. May she shelter you in her arms, and bring peace to your soul. May she make her presence known in these black times, and make of you a light in the darkness, shining forth to lead her people home."
Action: Move SW 10'. If this brings me into the silence zone, I'll move back where I came from. Cast prayer.
Nail, Kria, Graigus and Arbeiten get +1 to attack rolls, damage rolls, saves and skill checks. All the devils on the north of the battlefield, except the one to Graigus' left, get -1 to the same rolls. Spell resistance applies, but there is no save. SR roll is 6 + 1d20.

Posted by: Aldur Thu May 11, 2006 1:20 am
((So is Tanis...dead? ;-; ))

Posted by: Kaihaku Thu May 11, 2006 1:21 am
The doctor looked to Sorel in confusion, his mouth forming words in response but no sound issuing forth. Then, muttering to himself silently, he walks to the east with large easy strides. He continues until he can hear once again, then he comes to a halt and looks back upon his allies, "It's a sin to silence the beautiful sound of my voice..." His eyes narrow as a smirk forms on his face, his hands moving in an intricate pattern and words of power issuing from his mouth. Strong emotion surges in the hearts...or rather central organs...of his various allies. They find themselves filled with joy at being alive and this joy gives them the strength to continue fighting to remain alive. "In the name of Lavis, I impart unto you the sacred power to triumph over evil! Feel the joy brought by the deity of life and overcome!" Coventry proclaims as he holds forth a strange silver symbol.
((Move to the right until out of silence. Then cast. Defensively, taking 10 auto passes.))

QUOTE
Elation(BoED p98) <Ench[mind], VS, 1StdAct, 1rnd/lvl> All allies within an 80’ radius Spread of the caster become full of energy & joy: a) +2 Morale bonus to Strength & Dexterity; b) +5’ movement.

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Thu May 11, 2006 2:45 am
Gilliam fires a single short burst from his weapon before moving up. The bullets graze the shoulder of one of the beasts near Graigus as Gilliam takes a closer position. ((Hit. 5 damage after DR.))

Posted by: Arcdragnbreth Thu May 11, 2006 2:59 am
Gorrik lays into the demon, punishing it again and again until his axe had cleaved through it's flesh completely. ((Last round: 17 and 19 damage, for a total of 36.)) Tired of remaining on the defensive, Graigus raised his staff and swung at the devil's head, following with a stunning palm strike.
((FoB Attack1: 1d20 +3 (bab) +4 (str) + 1(mwk) +1(w. focus) +1(prayer) = 20
Damage: 1d6 (quarterstaff) + 4 (str) +1 (prayer) = 7
Stunning Fist declared
FoB Attack2: 1d20 +3 (bab) +4 (str) +1 (prayer) = 19
Damage: 1d10 (unarmed) +4 (str) +1 (prayer) = 14
DC 16 Fort save passed; devil is not stunned. Phooey.))
As soon as I can talk, I can't again, Dam thought to himself, pissed at the turn of events. Devils all over, people are missing, two nearly died, and I can't even give orders with this damn silence; not the way to start things off, for sure. I'm going to need to do some "exercises" after this to make sure we never get surprised like this again...
Moving around to flank yet another of the creatures, Dam's knife quickly found a spot and made a home in the hellish creature's flesh. For the second time this battle, all that was left of his opponent was a pile of sulfurous ash.
((Kno[Tactics]: 1d20 +4 (ranks) +4 (int) = 10. So much for that.
Tumble: 1d20 +3 (ranks) +5(dex) = 21. No AoO.
Move to the opposite side of the devil to flank with Gorrik
Attack: 1d20 +4 (bab) +5(dex) +1(mwk) +1(w. focus) -2(twf) = 26
Damage: 1d6 +2(str) + 2d6 (sneak) = 14, 9 after DR. Barbazu dead.))

Posted by: Knight_019 Thu May 11, 2006 3:28 am
*Sound begins to fill the air again after Gorrik slays the last demon in their area. Mahler slaps his stone hands together, a resounding clack telling everyone what had just happened. Mahler then shouts to Ombligo.* : Ombligo! Do you know what time it is?

Posted by: Rusty Thu May 11, 2006 3:32 am
*Ombligo bubbles with glee, knowing just what time it is, giggling as he responds.* : "No, Mahler...I think...You'll have to remind me!"

Posted by: Knight_019 Thu May 11, 2006 3:40 am
*Mahler opens his arms wide once more, then makes fists out of them.* : It's... CLOBBERIN' TIME!!! *Mahler crouches slightly and slams his stony fists together, causing them to glow bluish-white in color. The light is comforting, though reminiscent of flames at the same time.*
((Mahler casts Bless Weapon, Swift, targetting his fists. This is a swift action, which basically counts as a free action.
Mahler and Ombligo have also essentially delayed so that the can act on the same initiative count and intertwine their actions, akin to what a druid and his animal companion might do))

Posted by: Rusty Thu May 11, 2006 3:43 am
: "Go get the bad guys, Mahler! Abacadabra!" *Instantly, Graigus and Mahler swap places.* ((Benign Transposition. Since it's a harmless spell, I don't think Graigus will deny it? IIRC, he'll know it's harmless and such.))

Posted by: Knight_019 Thu May 11, 2006 3:57 am
*As soon as Mahler and Graigus switch places, Mahler takes a second to look at his new location. Seeing one on either side of him, he takes a step toward the more wounded of the two and slams his right fist into it. The light from the spell seems to discharge into the demon, and for a second a bright outline of his fist can be seen in its scaly flesh. Twisting his body, Mahler scores an uppercut into its stomach, which he drags up its body, leaving it horribly battered. Unlike the previous hits Mahler had landed, these ones seemed to have their full effect on the devil.*
((Full attack action: 5' step + Slam/Slam - PA 3
1d20 + 13 + 1 - 3 = 15 + 11 = 26.
1d20 + 11 = 9 + 11 = 20.
Damage
1d10 + 8 + 1 + 3 = 9 + 12 = 21.
1d10 + 12 = 1 + 12 = 13.
Total: 34 damage.
No DR applies due to Bless Weapon))

Posted by: Arcdragnbreth Thu May 11, 2006 4:14 am
"About time this silence dropped so I can give orders... Sorel, see what you can do about the samurai's wound. You, with the rifle... aim at the same one. Graigus, right? How bad is the wound?" "Not too ba-" the dwarf began, before he heard the cracking of bones from where he'd stood mere moments before. As Mahler stood over the remains of the devil, the monk could only shake his head in wonder.
"And I thought I hit hard... man, I could go for a drink right about now..."
"There'll be time for that later; right now, the kitty and the birdy are still in trouble. Don't drop your guard... there's no telling how many more are running around this town."

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Thu May 11, 2006 4:15 am
Sorel can again hear his own labored breathing as the silence is lifted. He casts about looking for wounded, and sees Bozak bleeding from an infernal wound, and Tanis nowhere to be found. He calls out to Coventry even as he touches Bozak, brilliant light emanating from his hand.
: "Doctor Coventry, Tanis is missing!"
((Move to square next to Bozak. Cure Moderate Wounds cast. Caster Check 11 + 6 = 17, pass. Infernal Wound closes. 7+8+6 = 21 HP restored))

Posted by: Cyrus Thu May 11, 2006 4:16 am
Gail moves forward to aid in slaying the now lone devil that previously surrounded Graigus, feeling it was better to be safe than simply write off the fact the golem could handle it himself. [Move 8 squares N.]

Posted by: Nightmare Thu May 11, 2006 4:40 am
Gorrik hacks away at the devil until it's so called "life" is ended and it's bloody corpse lays on the ground in two pieces. ((Attack 1: D20 + 6(BAB) + 4(STR) + 1(Enhancement) + 1(Elation) = 14 + 12 = 25 2: D20 + 1(BAB) + 4(STR) + 1(Enhancement) + 1(Elation) = 20 + 7 = Critical
Confirm: D20 + 1(BAB) + 4(STR) + 1(Enhancement) + 1(Elation) = 3 + 7 = 10 Unconfirmed
Damage
1: D12 + 4(STR) + 1(Enhancement) + 1(Elation) = 10 + 7 = 17
2: D12 + 4(STR) + 1(Enhancement) + 1(Elation) = 12 + 7 = 19
Note: this belongs near the start of the round, where Arc had origionally put it.))

Posted by: GE Silver Dragon Thu May 11, 2006 4:51 am
Stoltz grimaces as he glances up from the scope perched atop his rifle. Once again he had missed...making a mental note to find a way to sufficiently increase his firearm's accuracy after this battle was over, the tinker then nods to Dam after being addressed. "You got it, boss."
Moving closer to the center of the town square so he could get his target in his sights, the armadillian once again brings his rifle to bear, takes aim, and fires...and once again is treated to the sound of the bullet striking nothing but the brick wall behind his target. Yep, he definently was going to have to fix that...
((Attack: 1...
Miss Confirm: 18 + bonuses = 26, check passed, normal miss.
AIM can kindly slot off for the 3-for-3 miss rate Stoltz has going.))

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Thu May 11, 2006 5:26 am
((Silence does not fade when the devils die, it remains centered on their... remains. : P Which are piles of ash.))

Posted by: Rusty Thu May 11, 2006 6:04 am
((Yeah. Right. Whatever. -_- I'm still teleporting Golem for mass smashing.))

Posted by: Arcdragnbreth Thu May 11, 2006 6:42 am
((I'd also like to note that the range on Silence is 20 feet, not 30.))

Posted by: Alpha Thu May 11, 2006 7:22 am
((Well, I'm guessing Tanis is now dead, considering he hasn't been mentioned)) Tanis continues to bleed. His body can no longer take the loss of blood and the injuries, and...he dies. [Drop to -10. Tanis is dead -_-]

Posted by: Critical Mass Thu May 11, 2006 9:32 am
((I won't be able to make an actual post until probably tomorrow night. TUM or whoever else, if there's an update between now and then have Nail attack whatever's closest and weakest. Against these devils, I get two attacks at +15 for 2d6+2d6+9 each (calm down, it's just bane) and can make both on a charge.))

Posted by: Lord Oddeye Thu May 11, 2006 12:11 pm
"In any case, don't walk too close of them, not even after their death, as this spell won't vanish so easily" says Morgan. ((OOC : says Morgan, stating the obvious a lot too late... ^_^; )) With that, he lifts his right hand and stares at one of the Barbazus in the distance.
((Morgan stays where he is and casts Magic Missile on the weakest devil within his range.
SR check missile 1 : 1d20 + 6 = 19 + 6 = 25 : passed
damage : 1d4 + 1 = 4 + 1 = 5 damage
SR check missile 2 : 1d20 + 6 = 16 + 6 = 22 : passed
damage : 1d4 + 1 = 1 + 1 = 2 damage
SR check missile 3 : 1d20 + 6 = 5 + 6 = 11 : failed
Total : 7 damage))
Then, he casts a swift glance at the full battlefield.
"Wait... Where is the other catfolk?"

Posted by: Kaihaku Thu May 11, 2006 12:21 pm
((Why would the silence disappear when the devils are killed? Edit: Nevermind, I missed that TUM already addressed this.))

Posted by: Dark Maiden Thu May 11, 2006 4:26 pm
Kayla notes that Nail and Kria are in trouble, so she readies her kukri. She moves towards the devil, but twists and tumbles gracefully around it to avoid leaving any openings for the devil to attack her. Kayla brings up her kukri and slashes into the devil with it. It doesn't do as much damage as it should, but at least it's something.
[Attack: 18 + 3 (BAB) + 6 (DEX) + 1 (Elation) + 1 (Kukri) - 2 (TWF) + 2 (Flank) = 29. Threat
Confirming... 8 + 3 (BAB) + 6 (DEX) + 1 (Elation) + 1 (Kukri) - 2 (TWF) + 2 (Flank) = 19. Critical Hit
Damage: 3 + 3 + 2 (STR) + 1 (Elation) + 1 (Kukri) + 12 (Sneak Attack) - 5 (DR) = 17]
((Kayla moved to the spot under Nail and next to the devil. [Tumble: 9 + 14 = 23. Passed]))

Posted by: Arcdragnbreth Thu May 11, 2006 5:27 pm
((I might be wrong, but it doesn't look like you multiplied damage for the critical hit. The Sneak Attack damage remains the same, but weapon damage and numerical mods are doubled.))

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Fri May 12, 2006 3:00 am
Kria beheads her opponent as Langston runs his foe through with his rapier. Both demons burn away to piles of black ash. Arbeiten finds he cannot move forward without being silenced, so casts from his current position. Graigus takes out a lot of aggression, but doesn't take out any devils.
Morgan's missle slams into the other devil as Mahler does what his name implies to the devil on his right. This leaves only the devils around Nail standing, the others having long slain the others.
Nail tears into one of the devils, but is met with stiff resistance, two glaives jabbing into his side.
((Hit, Hit. 13 damage to Nail.))
Gail stumbles back as a devilish glaive lances through her side, painfully, but not too seriously.
((Hit. 7 damage+wound to Gail.))
((Everyone hit by a devil loses 2 HP.))
3 enemies left, map no longer needed.
-------
Tanis seems to be floating in a cold, dark expanse, not even the slightest bit aware of what happened around him.
((Tanis loses 1 point of Constitution and his fate will be clear enough soon.))

Posted by: Cyrus Fri May 12, 2006 3:31 am
Gail grits her teeth as the glaive slips into her side, pushing forward to deal a consecrated blow to the fiend with a silent yell. Her strike is followed shortly by two bursts of lightning, frying the fell devil before it knows what hit it. Meanwhile, in the east side, the combined efforts of the force slay the two remaining devils, ending the quiet skirmish.
[Gail: Smite Evil on NW Bearded Devil.
Attack roll: 1d20(16)+5(BAB)+3(STR)+6(Smite)+1(Weapon)=31.
Damage roll: 1d10(8)+3(Str)+5(Smite)+1(Weapon)-5(DR)=12 damage.
Ombligo & Sorel: Lightning Bolt and Call Lightning, respectively. Devil fails on Reflex for first, succeeds on seconds. 22 + 4 = 26 damage. NW devil slain.
And since there's a large PC to devil ratio over to the east, let's assume those two die off rather quickly...Which means...
Battle Over!
750 Experience gained.]

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Fri May 12, 2006 4:20 am
Sorel, still covered in wounds and smelling of rain, limps over to Dam as he rifles through the pockets of an eviscerated corpse. : "What... what are you doing?" : "I'm doing us a favor. These guys are dead, while we've got a lot of wounded; at the very least, we can pay for some healing," the rogue said, shaking his head.
: "Though 3 gold isn't going to do it."
Sorel looks down at the body, still bewildered.
: "That's a town guard. You robbed the corpse of an innocent man." He looks back up at Dicem, eyes burning. "For 3 gold pieces."
: "Do you think he would have stopped to argue?" the orange-haired youth said, standing up.
: "Do you think he would have said 'no, please, let me keep my three gold coins in death?'"
Sorel's expression and posture remained the same.
: "No, having not known him, I would have liked to assume he was an innocent man. An honorable man. But we'll never know. A town goes without its guard. Perhaps a wife and children go without the head of their household. A sick mother, sister, father, brother, go without their only caretaker. What of them? Are their needs unimportant because they don't have names or faces to you? Or because they aren't lining your pocket."
: "You think they don't compensate the families?" Dam questioned, folding his arms.
: "Trust me... town governments take care of their own, be it widows or orphans or whatever."
Sorel looks down at the corpse once more, leaning heavily on his staff. His strength seemed to be draining out of him.
: "These men died without us having ever seen the battle. Who knows how many there were, or how many still remain. As we speak, fiends could be rending through the houses of government, the home of the town's healer."
He raises his head, eyes boring into Dam's.
: "Government... is a happy facade in the best of times, and a black illusion in times of war. You are not a foolish man. You would presume to leave this town in hands you cannot even be certain still live. You would presume to justify walking away from the corpse of a father, a husband, a protector, with such a pathetic sum of money, based on the assumption that someone else would be there to protect him?"
The old man shakes his head.
: "I would like for you to be right. I truly would. But we don't live in a world where we can depend on the kindness of others. In the long view, every kindness is met with cruelty, every charity with injustice. To rely on the balance of humanity to care for people is to condemn them."
Sorel pauses.
: "...for three coins."
: "I see... so I'm going to be beaten by an old man for three gold," the rogue said, shaking his head.
: "Fine. We'll do it your way. Let the dead keep their money." As he walked away, he turned and added:
: "Don't expect the same result if you try that approach outside these walls."
Sorel's face lost its edge, leaving a weary frown.
: "No... I wouldn't expect to."

Posted by: Wandering Dezorian Fri May 12, 2006 4:36 am
While the two of them are arguing, Arbeiten wanders around and heals the team up. (I've got 8 or 9 1d8+5 tiny heals for anyone who needs 'em. Let me know what your hp totals are.)

Posted by: Knight_019 Fri May 12, 2006 12:10 pm
*Unsure if the area was truly secured, Mahler took a moment to listen in on his surroundings and look about. They had been ambushed once. Mahler wouldn't let it happen again.* ((Listen: 1d20 + 6 = 11 + 6 = 17. Spot: 1d20 + 1 = 16 + 1 = 17. Weird))

Posted by: Kaihaku Fri May 12, 2006 2:04 pm
Doctor Coventry chuckles at the exchange between Sorel and Dam. He whispers words of magical power and waves his hands in an intricate manner, then steps forward and rests a hand on Sorel's shoulder. Life force flows into the old man and his wounds seal.
[CL Check: 15 + 6 + 1 = 22]
[CSW: 6 + 2 + 1 = 9 + 7 = 16]
Coventry nods slightly, holding the silver symbol he wears to Sorel's face, "Pray to Lavis if you care for the dead..." At this distance, the symbol is seen to be two angels, one male and one female, embracing one another with an orb resting between their foreheads. Coventry winks, "All will be provided if you merely have faith."
The Doctor begins to turn away, casting another spell and in a moment his shield radiates light. A wide grin forming on his face, he walks in the direction of the young Paladin. His hand weaves symbols in the air as he walks forward and rests a hand on Gail's shoulder. The light illuminating her face, Coventry looks at her intently, seemingly at a lost, finally he whispers in an awed voice, "Well done, beautiful." He suddenly chuckles, all reverence vanishing abruptly as he spins away, "Ah... What a glorious night!"
[CL Check: 12 + 6 + 1 = 19]
[CSW: 4 + 5 + 3 = 12 + 7 = 19]
The Doctor suddenly stumbles, clutching his own wound aghast, "...ah..." He winces, dropping to his knees, breathing heavily with a look of horror on his face, "How...how can...this be?" He begins to fall forward only to roll back to his feet smoothly. As he rolls, his hands weave symbols in the air and he touches his wound lightly.
[Tumble: 4 + 14 = 18]
[CL: 8 + 6 + 1 = 15]
[CMW: 6 + 1 + 7 = 14]
As he comes to his feet, Coventry's face is starkly serious, his eyes centered on Dam, "Well, your worshipfulness. I fear that was quite nearly a disaster tactically."

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Fri May 12, 2006 2:42 pm
((WD, Sorel's at 28/40. You could drop a heal on him if you want. He wouldn't think of it himself, though. By the same token, I've still got a CLW: 1d8+6))

Posted by: Wandering Dezorian Fri May 12, 2006 3:02 pm
Save it. I'll drop 2 on you, bring you up to full. Make the rolls yourself. 2d8 + 10 total. Anyone else?

Posted by: Dark Maiden Fri May 12, 2006 4:17 pm
Kayla sighs and sheathes her kukris. She looks around at the others, annoyed by how much they're already bickering. Kayla looks around at all of them before she looks away. The rogue rubs her temple and thinks to herself. All this bickering is giving me a migraine
((Kayla is going to search the piles of dust that remain for money, items, and such))

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Fri May 12, 2006 4:46 pm
((Nothing there except stones with Silence cast on them, and I believe Dam already got those. Dunno why nobody posted the misc chat stuff that happened last night.))

Posted by: Dark Maiden Fri May 12, 2006 4:47 pm
((With all the trouble we went through, we could have gotten some cash. )) Kayla sighs and stands up, shaking her head. The young rogue grumbles and she starts walking back towards the inn. "For waking us up in the middle of the night, the bastards could have at least had some cash."
((I said it in character too !))

Posted by: Kaihaku Fri May 12, 2006 5:06 pm
[Dex: 18 + 4 = 22] Coventry frowns as Kayla glares at him, then shakes his head pulling three apples from his satchel. He begins tossing them from hand to hand, juggling them swiftly while watching the rogue shift through the piles of dust. After a long moment, he haphazardly tosses an apple to Sorel and another to Kayla. Without looking to see if they catch the apples, he takes a bite of the third and starts walking towards Ombligo.

Posted by: Lord Oddeye Fri May 12, 2006 5:20 pm
Morgan walks nearer to the main group as he thinks to the current situation. Yes, they were standing victorious... but still, whoever had planned this attack proved to be much more strategic than they were. The group had been within an ace of being slaughtered because they had lowered their guard down.
He looks at the orange-haired man searching the corpse of a guardsman and remembers the birdman's words with bitterness, heaving a deep sigh and finally walks towards the remains of one of the devils, putting some of the ashes in his components pouch.
(( ))

Posted by: Rusty Fri May 12, 2006 5:59 pm
((Placeholder for stuff that nobody posted last night - I saved the chat just in case. I thought someone was gonna post it??? so I did not Edit: Actually, Vox is going to post. I'll make the new thread now.))

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