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

Posted by: Rusty Sun Nov 27, 2005 6:40 am
((...POST!))

Posted by: White Rose Sun Nov 27, 2005 8:01 am
Shailtor's voice enters your mind, even as he continues speaking. "Still willing to fight on? Admirable tenacity, lady. But I sense the sorrow in your soul... He's there, you know. I can see him easily, floating in the world of death. I can bring him back to you. You can be together again. Isn't that something you'd like to fight for? You haven't even been with these people for a month, how long have you spent with him? How long have you wanted to spend with him?"
Visions of the life Acacia could've had with her husband flash through her mind.
The visions are welcomed into her mind with a sense of comfort and familiarity. Acacia stands, awed, but stricken. The wells of pain and longing rising once more within her as she is tested by her uncertainty. She wanted him back, she wanted her life back. Being her own person was too terrifying for her to bear. What was this stranger asking her, offering her? Was he not of the same breed that took him, took them all, away from her?
"Agree to raise your sword for our cause alone and I will guarantee he will be at your side once more. It's so cold, being alone, so painful.. He longs to be with you too..."
At this, tears that had begun to form flow unbidden down her cheeks. Inwardly, she was in turmoil, but more than that she was untrusting. She knew so very little of all that happened around her, just that she was a part of the flow. "How can I trust what you say is true?" This she asks from within her own mind.
"Why would I lie? It is a simple matter to locate and raise your husband. A small enough price to pay to ensure your loyalty."
"You know nothing of my husband and me. I do not wish him back." It was a pathetic lie, but she wanted this to stop. This all needed to be over, she was not ready to deal with it just yet. No, in truth she was just afraid. Now was the only time she might accept the offer.
"That's a lie and you know it..." Shailtor says, chuckling. "Are you afraid to be happy?"
Acacia is stunned into silence. The Thorn, that is what they called her, because despite all of her outward appearances of a rose, she still bore the thorns. She had fought, but she did so without a purpose. "No, I am not afraid to be happy. I'm afraid to have something to lose. Now I have nothing, you can't break me anymore than I've already been broken. I'm afraid to hurt again."
"We can make it so that you never hurt again, as well..."
"I just want to give in. I want it all to stop." She was on the verge, ready to be tipped in. "Why? Why am I a threat to you? I am not strong enough, was never strong enough. I need to understand. Why was my husband killed, why was our carriage attacked?"
"An unfortunate accident by our raiders..." Shailtor soothes. "They had been informed it was a convoy, guarded by one of the Guardians of Divine Order..."
"It was because of Jokulligr?" A sudden lurching overtakes Acacia. No, she wasn't at fault, it couldn't have been. Faintness begins to overtake her.
"So he was with the carriage... Yes, sadly..." Shailtor says. "Jokulligr's order opposed our own and we had no choice but to take care of them before they slaughtered more of our people..."
"We assumed everyone else was allied with, or part of his order... Truly I am sorry, but we can make amends..."
Acacia begins to shake, her knees weak. Her mind is too foggy for her to organize her thoughts, so instead she lets them escape in a low whisper. "I can't trust you, I can't trust anyone."
"Not even your husband?" Shailtor asks.
"Well... I'll let you think about it..."

Posted by: Rusty Sun Nov 27, 2005 8:36 am
"Oh, you overflow with desire..." Shailtor's voice whispers in Faralon's mind. "Women, fame, glory, riches... All can be yours..." Images of Faralon surrounded by adoring women, Kethra and Isyndel among them fill his mind. Faralon: "...You think I'm an easy target, Strife Lord?"
Shailtor: "Not at all, young bard. Merely that perhaps you have the most to gain from my bargain..."
Images of Faralon singing for emperors and kings, of his songs going down in legend, of throngs of admirers flocking to him appear before him.
Faralon: "I am quite familiar with..." *Faralon smiles at the images.* "...mind affecting capabilities, you know. The 'gifts' are certainly tempting, but I would not make such a brash decision on a whim. What is it you want, anyway?"
Shailtor: "The potion? Yes, we know... We can do far better than the parlor tricks of that merchant..." Shailtor whispers. "We want your aid, of course. Agree to serve us. You could spy on your companions for us, for example... Or you could break with them altogether and work for us directly. There are a number of things someone like you could do for our benefit..."
Faralon: "Spy on my companions? My own brother? Ha! I think not...That potion was trickery. What's one merchant from another? You're a merchant in a way, I suppose...Besides, I apparently have much better chances at succeeding in my goals without aid. Where's the glory if I simply let it all come to me?"
Shailtor: "Were you to join us, you easily arrange matters so that your brother would come to no harm... And you would still have to work for your glory... but the other side offers none at all. Only defeat."
Faralon: "Hmm...I don't know. We've been doing fairly well thus far...But I suppose if you're so easily able to break into my thoughts...I guess you would have to be fairly powerful to get such a following. I'm interested, as a bard, to learn how you Strife Lords plan to shape the world. What exactly would you change?"
Shailtor: "We would unify the world under our reign, of course," Shailtor says. "No more wars or the like... Think of it. You could firsthand record the last war the world will ever know. You could write the histories the world will study from this point on. We need someone like that..."
Faralon: "That's a bit broad of an answer...What qualifies as your 'reign', other than of course you three having power over others? The way that priest spoke, he made it sound as if you would be altering reality, or something."
Shailtor: "Perhaps we shall... We intend to get rid of the meddling gods and demons whose petty struggles have scarred this world for ages. Whose battles have caused unfair ruin to your mortal lands, for one."
Faralon: "But you didn't seem to think you should mention it. Were you intending to hide it, or is the precise route yet undecided, then?"
Shailtor: "We reveal our plans in degrees to those who serve us... The more we know you're loyal, the more we reveal."
Faralon: "I understand, though I'm not sure I can make a complete decision based on what I know...Certainly not swiftly. If I do end up declining your offer, what exactly would you do to affect me?"
"I'm not sure yet," Shailtor says. "I'll think of something."
Faralon: "Heh...Curious things to come with either option, then."
Shailtor: "Indeed. I will let you think on the matter..."
Faralon: "Thank you. I have a lot on my mind right now already, even without this...So I do need some time to think about it all."

Posted by: Kaihaku Sun Nov 27, 2005 1:18 pm
((I'm taking several actions as I was unable to post at once due to family activities. Brand suggested exactly what I was thinking but I'll respect that he posted before me.)) As the creature speaks, Cedric whirls around to face him and a deep frown crosses his face. As the others begin speaking to him, the Paladin steps to the side of Castor and begins speaking words in a holy tongue. The image of Mitula that he bears glows softly for a moment, then he completes the spell.
[Protection from Evil: Castor]

CODE
Protection from Evil This spell wards a creature from attacks by evil creatures, from mental control, and from summoned creatures. It creates a magical barrier around the subject at a distance of 1 foot. The barrier moves with the subject and has three major effects.
First, the subject gains a +2 deflection bonus to AC and a +2 resistance bonus on saves. Both these bonuses apply against attacks made or effects created by evil creatures.
Second, the barrier blocks any attempt to possess the warded creature (by a magic jar attack, for example) or to exercise mental control over the creature (including enchantment (charm) effects and enchantment (compulsion) effects that grant the caster ongoing control over the subject, such as dominate person). The protection does not prevent such effects from targeting the protected creature, but it suppresses the effect for the duration of the protection from evil effect. If the protection from evil effect ends before the effect granting mental control does, the would-be controller would then be able to mentally command the controlled creature. Likewise, the barrier keeps out a possessing life force but does not expel one if it is in place before the spell is cast. This second effect works regardless of alignment.
Third, the spell prevents bodily contact by summoned creatures. This causes the natural weapon attacks of such creatures to fail and the creatures to recoil if such attacks require touching the warded creature. Good summoned creatures are immune to this effect. The protection against contact by summoned creatures ends if the warded creature makes an attack against or tries to force the barrier against the blocked creature. Spell resistance can allow a creature to overcome this protection and touch the warded creature.

Next the Paladin drawns his hammer, locking his gaunlet around it. It at this point that Brand speaks to him, nodding the Holy Knight moves his hand in a sweeping motion, "Scatter and keep your eyes open for other enemies... I doubt that a Lord would travel unescorted." Cedric spits out the word Lord.
[Detect Evil] ((Let me know if I detect any other enemies in the area, assume that Cedric shares this information with the others.))
The Paladin then whispers quietly, "Mitula, protect thy servant." As divine power flows around him, Cedric firmly steps towards the Strife Lord.
[Divine Shield: +5 AC]
[CHA Check: 16 + 5 = 21]
His voice rings clear and firm, "Lives without number have fallen to your foul ambition. The sins of you and your companions are beyond count. Where there was peace you have brought bloodshed. Where there was hope, you brought despair. Death and corruption come to all that you touch. Now you think to touch us with your deceit, then withdraw and let the seeds of your evil germinate and bear fruit?” The Paladin comes to a stop, “Shailtor… Lord of Strife the day may come when you torment our souls into submission and command the wrecked remains of our bodies to obey your whims…but we will not meekly become your slaves! Our last breath will be one of defiance against you! Our every free thought will counter your own! Crush our bodies and enslave our souls, but we will never willingly follow you!!!”
The Paladin raises his hammer, “Stand with me comrades! Relish our freedom while it remains! Though the path be to death, glory, or enslavement we will not be passive victims! Stand firm!”
The eyes of the Paladin flare, “Castor! Van! Now! Strike this foe of all that is good!” The Paladin bears down his now shining hammer at the enemy.
[Smite Evil]
[Power Attack 2]
[Attack Roll: 19 + 12 – 2 + 5 = 34]
[Damage: 1…+ 9 + 4 + 5 = 19]
((In the words of Sousuke, “Sorry Chidori, no negotiations with terrorists.”))

Posted by: Aldur Sun Nov 27, 2005 2:11 pm
((But Kai, He's not had a chance to speak to everyone's mind yet. Be fair. =P You'll hurt his feelings. Poor Shailtor.))

Posted by: Dark Maiden Sun Nov 27, 2005 8:09 pm
((I have to agree, Kai. Allow the others to post first... I still need to finish the rest with TUM before I post))

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Sun Nov 27, 2005 8:25 pm
((Leave Kai alone. Shailtor is speaking to all of us at once, so there's no reason we can't have all resolved our scenarios before Cedric got frisky. Besides, Rhyir attacked Shailtor too, to great effect.))

Posted by: Dark Maiden Sun Nov 27, 2005 10:51 pm
((You have a point Vox. Sorry Kai ))

Posted by: Aldur Sun Nov 27, 2005 10:56 pm
((He's still hurting poor Shailtor's feelings though ;-; ))

Posted by: DragonmasterDon1 Sun Nov 27, 2005 11:39 pm
((This gets whatever whenever I get to it or whatever then))

Posted by: Kaihaku Mon Nov 28, 2005 3:54 am
((I made the long post as I was heading back to University today and I figured that I would be left behind if I posted nothing. TUM isn't going to neglect you because the Paladin attempted to smite the tempter.))

Posted by: Aldur Mon Nov 28, 2005 4:30 am
The Kyantol lets out a sigh of relief, and yet he had to wonder...was he really doing that right thing? What to do...who to choose. It should be obvious and yet it was not...his conversation with the Strife Lord had left him sorely troubled.

Posted by: Kaihaku Mon Nov 28, 2005 5:45 am
The blow strikes true and Shailtor grunts as the hammer makes a very small dent in his armor, but it doesn't seem to affect the creature much. His eyes shimmer as he regards Cedric. "Mitula... Mitula, Mitula, Mitula..." Shailtor whispers into Cedric's mind. "You follow her, adore her, lavish praise upon her... Why?"
Cedric grinds his teeth, "Because she is everything you are not. You represent decay, death, and slavery. She is life, growth, and freedom!"
"She is freedom? With all of the restraints she places on you, her supposedly beloved servants? How long have you slaved away in her name? What have you gained in return?" Shailtor asks.
Cedric glares at the fiend, "We gain the joy of watching the innocent live their lives in peace. We gain the knowledge that we safeguarded them from those who would destroy their happiness."
As Cedric speaks his words, he feels doubt gnawing at his gut. A feeling of jealously for those who he protects, who never have to fight and can never truly appreciate the sacrifices being made for them.
At the same time, a sense of futility creeps into his thoughts. Satisfaction? From what? There will always be another war, always be more suffering... What's the point?
Cedric grows silent, a troubled expression crossing his face.
"You can feel it, can't you... It's hard hearing the truth of things..." Shailtor whispers in Cedric's mind. "So why do you serve your goddess? Why else?"
Cedric looks at Shailtor unsteadily, "Why?" He takes a deep breath as if to clear his mind, "To...defend beauty and safe guard life...because I...have known some suffering in my life...and would not wish greater suffering on others..."
The paladin shakes his head at this as if clearing it and narrows his gaze at Shailtor, "Suffering such as you and your cult brings!" The edge of defiance returns to his voice, although it is weaker than before.
"Really now? Why? Few others seem to care about others, why care about them? Mortals are self-centered and morally bankrupt as a general rule. Even the most exalted ones are flawed... Why do you struggle for them so? Don't you owe yourself some reward? When will you be allowed to rest?"
Feelings of murky disgust towards the masses accompany the words. Why can't others see above themselves? Cedric's been holding himself to such high standards, but why wasn't anyone else doing so?
Cedric stops, blinking at this sudden emotion, his next words shaken, "I...I cannot hold others...to my standards... My life is a gift...not a right..."
"Your life is a GIFT? Not a RIGHT?" Shailtor says, disbelievingly. "If life is a gift and not a right, why do you respect it so? Why do others squander their gifts, then? Or is it that they are enjoying their gifts properly while you refuse to open the box for fear of spoiling the wrappings?"
Cedric winces at the words of the fiend, "Not...all life only...my life." The Paladin rubs his forehead, "This...cannot be right... I have to remain strong... No, you seek to corrupt and defile all life. I've seen your handy work...the unforgivable torment in which your slaves live..." Despite his bold words, Cedric's voice is filled with uncertainty.
"You've seen punishments we had to dole out to those who refused the truth... This world is hardly worth the effort you put into it. We can give you anything, everything, if you accept what you see, if you prove strong enough to see what's really true..." Shailtor whispers. "You can have it all, everything you've been forced to give up. Riches, power, immortality... we can even give you Mitula..."
Cedric stumbles for a moment, his next words weakly gasped out but somehow determined, "You can never give me what I desire! You offer only what you take by force, how could you understand that which is given freely... How could a...fiend such as you understand...my desires?" The Paladin is leans heavily on his hammer, "Coercion... Domination... What I desire can never be found through those..."
The Holy Knight frowns deeply, "You...you..." Then he blinks, speaking softly, "...and what if I did join you? I would loss all I have strived for... I would end my life lost like the Storm or the raving mad priest..."
"Such an honored place you would take, not as an undead automaton or blind sheep, no, you would have a seat of power befitting such a mighty individual..." Shailtor whispers.
Cedric struggles for a moment then stands tall, "You have no idea what honor is..." His eyes flash, "Power is...nothing to aspire to... It is a burden...directly opposed to freedom... A necessary burden in this imperfect world..."
"Power is not a burden... power sets you free... Power is by definition, ability. Think on what you truly want... I shall return..."
Cedric finds the feeling of uncertainty remains as he shakes his head. He looks at the others weakly for a moment, then back at the tempter.

Posted by: Cyrus Mon Nov 28, 2005 5:55 am
Shailtor's voice whispers inside Castor's mind. "Mighty minotaurs, arms able to rip oaks to shreds, yet even you cannot wipe away your past... Perhaps we can be of service there?" Shailtor whispers. Castor's focus shifts, away from the physical and into the voice of the being in his head. He had been wondering when it would get to this part, but the method surprised him. [So, you know...I guess you would. You are a god, after all...Let's get down to business.] The minotaur glares steelingly at the dark one. [What's your offer?]
"With our help, you can return to your tribe, and not only become accepted, but rise in rank until you are chieftain!" Shailtor whispers. "We can also try and find your friend... and restore him to you." Images of a glorious future, Pollux alive again, fill Castor's mind.
Castor's eyes glaze as the visions dance in his head, beguiling him with his ideal world. He was a man of great power, a protector for all those who were hated and hunted just for being them, the ‘monsters’ of the world. And there, by his side, was his good friend...looking out among the verdant sea of grass...He shook his head, trying to concentrate, but the visions continued further...to where there was no more hiding in the uncivilized corners of the world for his people, to where a minotaur, or any humanoid could walk into a civilized village, and not be hunted or condemned because of what they were. A utopia...
[How...] Castor's thought catches as he tries to overcome his awe. These were things even he didn't know he wanted...and yet...It was like his life’s dreams had flashed before his eyes. He regained his composure, rationalizing what he had seen. [How do I know this isn't smoke and mirrors? I know that such promises are very difficult, if nearly impossible...]
"Not for us... We have powers never seen in this plane... We can share this power with you. The minotaurs would be a powerful force for us, if only we could give them a leader to unite them..."
Castor fell silent. He thought of this offer...of this chance. He would be...free again. It was a clean slate...a way out, a chance to live again. And yet...it felt empty. What would all those years mean? What would his actions have meant, if all the consequences just vanished? He remained quiet for a while longer before he gave his answer. [I'm no leader, and I doubt I ever will be.]
"Would you rather serve as a loyal second in command? Your friend, he could fill the spot... Perhaps you and he could perform this task together..."
And that was it. The promise. A silly little thing they had made as kids, but here…here it would have purpose. It had been a far-off dream, and now, it was right in front of his face. Once again, he went silent. After what seemed like an eternity, he responded, saying, [May I have time to consider this?]
"Of course... Of course..." Shailtor replies as he withdraws from the minotaur's mind.

Posted by: Arcdragnbreth Mon Nov 28, 2005 7:37 am
Versatile, warrior... skilled in sword and sorcery..." Shailtor whispers to Asathel in his mind. "We can grant you all you seek...": I bet you can. I suppose you've got some long, drawn out plan for how to trick me? "No, not at all... I merely offer you want you want in exchange for what we want... A trade..." Shailtor whispers. "Serve us, and you will see sights no mortal alive here has ever seen. You will travel the length and width of creation, witnessing everything, having more adventures than you could ever have here..."
Are you mad? Ashathel asked incredulously, as if the Strife Lord's words were the most ridiculous things known to man. You can't seriously expect me to believe all this, after the Storm practically begged us to kill him. And all because you wouldn't let him rest in piece. No, I think I'll travel my own way, and cut you into pieces while I'm at it. I'm on to your petty tricks, and I know more than enough to see that you wouldn't be bargaining with us if you could outright stop us. No... you need us to join you, and I for one won't give you the satisfaction. In your case, I aim to displease...
"The Storm was treated thusly because he opposed us. To those who join willingly, we can offer everything they've ever wanted... Why, if one were to join, I daresay we could even give him the heart of a lovely archmage, even one born far above his station..." Shailtor whispers, images of Yeesha appearing in Asathel's mind.
Ashathel's only response was a broad grin, as he shook his head and drew his sword. Who told you I was after Yeesha? Probably the same one who told you I'd listen to your forked tongue. Keep quiet and bother someone else.
"Call it... a hunch," Shailtor whispers. "Very well... If you will not serve us, perhaps your brother will... He's not quite as steadfast as you, and his willingness to use any means to get what he desires may benefit us in the end..."
I'm looking forward to the attempt. On the off chance you do somehow succeed, I'll be sure to kill you in front of your other buddies. Now get out of here before I start trying to smite evil like Cedric.
"Very well... I will leave you with your dreams that may never be fulfilled and you would-be rapist of a brother."

Posted by: Dark Maiden Mon Nov 28, 2005 8:31 am
((Both are now done, yay. Oh and please do finish soon Don. I'm curious to see what happens next and who the faceless man is )) Shailtor's whispery voice enters Damas' mind. "Your blood sings with power, young sorcerer, but even you cannot bring your dead loved ones back to life... Why are you with these people who obviously hate you?"
Images of the group talking about Damas behind his back, snickering, and generally being nasty to the sorcerer fill his mind.
"We can bring her back to you... We can bring them ALL back..."
Images of his guild restored, Valkana taking his arm and walking with him as he is reunited with all his old friends fill his mind.
Damas does not welcome the visions of the others being cruel to him, and he shakes them off with some difficulty. However, he remembers how they had treated him in the past, and a faint sense of doubt grips him. The visions of his friends and his lover comfort him and warm his heart. The more he thinks about it, the more he begins to doubt his companions. But was Shailtor not as bad as whoever had taken his mentor, his friends, and his lover away from him? "What would you want with one such as me?"
"We would want to train you, of course... Properly schooled, you would be powerful, and we always have uses for powerful wielders of magic."
"Even if I were to become as powerful as you claim I could be, what would be the point?" Damas begins to feel the sense of doubt grip him tighter.
"Power is the ability to do... With power... you can do anything... We have the power to bring back your life to you. From there, you will have the power to forge a new life for yourself..."
Damas thinks about it for a few minutes, doubt continuing to grip him. With power he could do whatever he chose. He would never have to be afraid again, yet at what cost would this 'happiness' come? His very soul? He could quite possibly become as bad as those that took his loved ones away in the first place. Then his thoughts turn to the night Valkana's ghost came to him. He has wondered why ever since. "I...have a question... If you know so much...then do you know why Valkana still lingers here, even after her death?"
"Of course we do..." Shailtor says.
"I see..." Damas sighs. "But I suppose you wouldn't tell me that, would you?"
"We would tell you everything, my young apprentice..." Shailtor says with a chuckle. "But it's a quid pro quo deal... You don't get something for nothing... Though as a token of goodwill, I will tell you that Valkana's spirit follows you even now..."
Damas looks around him for a moment, a little disappointed when he sees nothing. However, he has very little reason to doubt that Valkana is still with him. Thoughts and memories of her flood into his mind. He remembers how happy they were together, yet he also remembers how she turned on him. "Valkana..." Just as doubt seems about ready to put him into an iron hold, he remembers his friends. Sapphire, Amon, and his mentor Auril, who had been like more of a mother to him. How disappointed would they be if he made a deal with the devil? Sapphire and Amon would probably beat the living crap out of him that much he was sure of. He also remembers something his mentor had once told him. Life was sometimes not fair, and nothing would come to him easily. He would have to fight, and he would sometimes have to suffer and bleed for something if he wanted it enough. Damas craved acceptance and equality, and in this moment he realizes that if it was handed to him, the end result would have no meaning at all. It would be hollow. A small smiles creeps across his lips and he shakes his head sadly. "I have always wanted to be accepted, but I've realized that unless I fight for it, it'll have no meaning. While I sometimes doubt their feelings towards me, I know this is something I must do on my own. Respectfully, I must decline."
"Well... Since it was respectfully, I suppose I will have to accept... Besides... Knowing what I know, any effort on my part to twist you would be in vain... You're going to have an interesting few months ahead of you, and the funny part is, it's not going to be because of me..."
Damas chuckles a little bit. "I'm sure I will, but I'll worry about things as they come at me from now on. Now if you'll kindly excuse me, I would like a little time to myself to think."
-----
"Lovely little thing, your heart is burdened with sorrow... Don't you wish for that sorrow to lift?" Shailtor whispers.
Kethra gasps when she hears the voice and looks towards Shailtor. "What makes you think that?" she asks, trying to remain as calm and possible.
"It's so obvious... You miss him don't you? It's written plainly on your mind."
Kethra crosses her arms over her chest and frowns. "What of it?"
"Wouldn't you like him back?"
"You know...prying into a girl's mind isn't very nice." The mention of Cale makes Kethra sad, but she attempts to deny this like she does to everyone else. "That's impossible... And who said I wanted that?"
"You did. Your mouth says one thing, your heart another... Don't tell me you're not curious as to what might have been? You don't want to have what you could've had?"
Memories of the time she'd spent with Cale begin to flood into her mind. It makes her feel warm inside. "What...could have been?" she asks somewhat meekly. "We were merely friends..."
"Were you?"
More memories flood into her mind, except these aren't so pleasant. Cale's death had devastated her, yet she always denied it. She lied about her feelings to even her sensei, and herself. "I...I don't know."
"Exactly... You don't know... But you could find out..."
Kethra begins to feel doubt take root in her now, and she begins to feel a little weak. "What is it you want?"
"You."
"Serve us and we can give you everything that others cannot."
"I...I don't know what to believe anymore... I don't know what to think, or what to feel." Kethra sighs and shakes her head sadly. "Just leave me to my thoughts, please... I need to think all of this through."
"Oh, but of course... Don't wait too long though... He's been waiting for you for so long..." Shailtor whispers.

Posted by: Wandering Dezorian Tue Nov 29, 2005 1:20 am
"I shall dispense with the honeyed words since I doubt you'd find them to your liking... Shall we instead get down to business?" Shailtor asks inside Brand's mind. Brand raises his eyebrows as the voice sounds in his head, his first thoughts unprintable, his second an angry realization that this enemy could probably hear his surprised reaction. Finally, the birdman speaks aloud. "Neat trick, godling. Tackling us each one on one?"
"I find it a much more personable way to do business. One on one is so much friendly than a simple en masse approach, don't you think?"
"No, I do not." Brand thinks in reply, distrust heavy in his mind. "You are an enemy to me, to my people, and to those I care for, the direct cause of the atrocities we have seen thus far, and an intruder in this camp and within our minds. Leave, godling."
"Am I? I think you'll find our goals are more similar than you'd think, warrior of Bedoe..." Shailtor whispers. "Don't you wish to see a world without war?"
"Ah. Of course." Brand thinks, no small amount of sarcasm tinging his thoughts. "And you are the one to provide that, right?"
"Of course... One last war to unite the world, then there will be no more war. These conflicts that have ravaged the globe for so long will cease to exist and peace will claim the land."
The birdman's only thought is short, flat, and cold. "Under you."
"Who else? Regional governors and the like will retain control, of course, but someone is needed to oversee the entire thing."
For a moment, white anger fills the birdman's thoughts, and then the birdman speaks aloud. "You really don't understand us, do you? For all your words, all the legends, all you understand is lust and hunger. There is no such thing as a war which hurts the combatants more than the innocent are hurt. No war in which wives and sweethearts do not face a cold life alone, in which families are broken apart, in which men are executed for false accusations, and in which the dark hearted do not strive to better themselves at another's expense. The trick is to know when it's worth the cost. Not the cost to yourself. Dying is brief. But when is it worth the cost the innocent will pay?"
"I'll tell you when, godling." Brand shouts, almost livid now.
"My good friend, just because I don't care doesn't mean I don't understand..." Shailtor chuckles mentally. "But do go on. You amuse me."
"And that's just it, isn't it? You don't care, and your peace would be nothing more than the idle amusement of a puppeteer. The grave would be no bar to your entertainment, either. We've already seen your handiwork in that area, godling."
"You don't offer peace. You offer slavery. You don't offer joy, you offer hopelessness."
"Oh no, our peace would be quite real... But I know when I'm not going to make a deal, and I grow bored with attempting to explain things to beings of limited understanding."
"Are you quite done making speeches?"
"Yes, I am." Brand thinks, drawing and loosing an arrow in one fluid motion.
((Quickdraw bow, attack. Roll: 15 + 8))
"Is that how you birdmen fly? With all the hot air you've stored?"
Shailtor easily steps out of the way of the arrow and makes a gesture. Brand's bow splinters into kindling. "You'll never hit anything if you can't maintain your weaponry," he notes with a chuckle.
"Thanks for the briefing, godling. Name, Shailtor. Spellcaster, disdains physical combat, prefers talking to fighting, uses shadowy and mind-affecting magic when provoked, but always with a witty line said. No other words while casting, but always gestures. Arrogent and overconfident, very sure of his abilities. Man-sized, does not care for stealth. Also afraid of this party, apparently. Did I leave anything out?" Brand asks.
"Afraid? Wrong word. Amused. Name: Brand. Warrior, easily provoked and angered. Arrogant and overconfident, very sure of his abilities. Man-sized, does not care for stealth. Tactical abilities that bring new meaning to the word 'birdbrain.' Also angry at myself, apparently. Did I leave anything out?" Shailtor asks.
"So much for the one-on-one, personable approach." Brand notes with a smile as the Godling speaks aloud. "And since you've brought it to the public domain..." he adds with a glance towards Cedric. "On your word."
"My feathered friend, you're the one that wished to make this an open debate, not I. Don't blame others for your own mistakes. It's something you've done too often..." Shailtor says.
Brand would grin at Shailtor's comments, if his beak allowed it. "Ah, a mistake. Yes, one-on-one conversations within the mind with an enemy known for his mental abilities and lures. Absolutely, drawing companions away from that is a horrible mistake."
Shailtor laughs hard. "My... Your powers of denial are amazing... It wasn't that I spoke of at all. In any case, I have already finished my offers with the others."

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Tue Nov 29, 2005 1:38 am
Shailtor laughs lightly. "Well, I've made my offers and I've given you your chances. I'd say my work here is done for the day." Cedric glares at the fiend, "Begone..." "Don't be bitter because others had the sense to accept and you did not..." Shailtor says, shaking his head. "I will see you all later... if you truly are what I think you are..."
With that, Shailtor vanishes.

Posted by: Dark Maiden Tue Nov 29, 2005 1:55 am
"Shailtor's presence was...unnerving to say the least," Damas says grimly, the grip on his staff tightening a little bit. "I have no doubt that he has showed all of us...things that have shaken our faith in ourselves or in each other." His gaze turns to Isyndel and looks upon her with a soft gaze. "Isyndel..." he murmurs.
Kethra makes her way towards a tree on shaky legs and takes a seat beneath it. Her body feels weak, and doubt has taken root within her. She doubts herself, her feelings, and whether or not the path she follows is indeed the correct one.

Posted by: Rusty Tue Nov 29, 2005 2:11 am
*Faralon sighs. He's gone...The fools. He'd have to be very powerful to have such a following. We can't be ready yet...We just started. Now that they know us by name and our deeds...I think things will become significantly more difficult. We've probably only hit the tip of the iceberg...*
: "What idiots agreed to his proposal? Or was his statement merely a ruse?"

Posted by: Dark Maiden Tue Nov 29, 2005 2:26 am
"I turned him down, if that is comforting in any way." Damas leans on his staff and looks towards Kethra. "And you?" Kethra looks up to Damas with sad eyes. Her gaze turns to Faralon for a moment after that, and then she looks back down to the ground.
Damas gasps and his eyes widen. "Don't tell me you're actually...considering it."
"No," she replies. "I just...I have a lot on my mind right now and I need to clear my head."
"That's a relief," he says with a sigh. "I'm sure you had all of us worried for a moment there." Damas takes a deep breath and waits for reactions from the others.

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Tue Nov 29, 2005 2:33 am
: "I found I could not move when he spoke to me... But I resisted..." Kyoji says, a haunted look in his eyes. "I... Excuse me, that brought up unpleasant memories," Kyoji says as he walks into one of the carts. "My leg..." Yeesha says, simply, then shakes her head. "No, it's best not to think about it... I think we should move on. Iom Castle is not too far ahead, and it's been regarrisoned with Cypress troops as part of the army in the area... We should be safe there... We can rest for the night, then it's just a short ways to the ruins of Iom Shrine."

Posted by: Kyosokun Tue Nov 29, 2005 2:42 am
"Brave young warrior, to stand against me... I applaud your valor and apologize for the dagger, but you must learn timing..." Shailtor's voice whispers in Ryhir's mind. "I see what you want..." Visions of Ryhir leading armies to victory, draped in glorious armor with magnificent scimaters float in his mind. He conquers whole nations, his tribe immortalizes him as their greatest hero. Women flock to him as he sits on a golden throne surrounded by the spoils of war. "Would you seek glory, then? We can give it to you. We can give you everything..."
And what must I offer in return? Ryhir thinks
"Merely your service... We have need of such a general, and you have a need of an army... Our needs complement each other rather well, I think."
What, serve you like The Storm had? Glory and riches, in return for all that I believed in and my free will?
"The Storm... refused our offer. Rather adamantly. Regrettably, we had to force his hand. Those who serve willingly are given a far higher place in our standing."
What are your goals. Why do you offer this to me. Why should I give you my service?
"We offer this to you because you've risen above the common rabble... You've proven yourself a formidable warrior, a cunning adversary. You have true potential, something hard to find these days... Our goals? Simple. This land is broken and constantly in a state of war... Think about it. There were no less than 3 major wars in the last 20 years alone... Wouldn't it be better if such war would stop? If all Rune was united?"
Ryhir pulls the dagger out of himself with a wince and a grunt, and holds it, as if measuring it's weight against the weight of his soul... Do you truely believe the world would accept such unification? Nations smaller have torn themselves apart from the inside....
"They won't have a choice but to accept such unification..." Shailtor returns. "Sometimes some force is needed to keep those with less strength of will and common sense in line."
[i]And is such a goal is worth such a price?[i] Ryhir thinks, looking up from the dagger at Shailtor
"A peaceful world without war isn't worth fighting for?" Shailtor asks.
"Fighting for.... Yes. It is." Ryhir says aloud. "But not worth enslaving for." And with that Ryhir cocks his arm back and once again sends the dagger flying at Shailtor.
Unfortunately, just as he releases the dagger, Ryhir's body is wracked once more by the pain cause by the shadow energy. The dagger is feebly thrown, and easily caught by Shailtor. His vision starts turning black, and the last thing Ryhir sees is his dagger headed back towards him...
((Crit failed the dagger attack, between the Shadow Strike Damage and getting a dagger to the chest AGAIN, Ryhir dies))

Posted by: DragonmasterDon1 Tue Nov 29, 2005 3:53 am
((I was just posting for more internet gold then or whatever))

Posted by: Dark Maiden Tue Nov 29, 2005 6:02 am
From where she is sitting, Kethra finally notices Ryhir laying there. Slowly she rises and moves towards him, her eyes going wide when she can find no signs that there is life in him. "Ryhir? We need a priest over here!"

Posted by: Nightmare Tue Nov 29, 2005 6:47 am
"What are you doing, wolfman?" Shailtor whispered into Laika's mind. "You don't belong with them. You search for a purpose, but are you so sure your purpose is with them?" A little shocked by the voice invading his head and private thoughts, Laika sheepishly responded, "I'm not really sure of anything... being with this group just seemed like a good place to try and find myself..."
"Do you think that's who you really are? A simpering follower of a weak god? No, you're strong, you're savage... You can feel the call of the wild in your veins..."
"Well, I'm certainly no leader either... but tell me... what's the difference between following a 'weaker god' than one such as yourself?"
"Volcanon will impose order on you... He'll force you to follow strict laws and rip you away from your true self..." Shailtor whispers as images of Laika, docile and tame float to his mind. "Your true nature is to be wild, untamed and free... To answer only to the savage call of the forest night."
Images of Laika stalking through forests and wildernesses, much stronger than he is now float to his mind. A sense of exhiliration accompanies this vision.
"Hmmm... I'm beginning to understand you're point... however, I don't see how devoting myself to you will be any different then just abandoning Volcanon and going my own path."
"Did I ask that you devote yourself to me?" Shailtor counters. "No... I merely put forward that I can help you find your true purpose as a lord of the wild... In exchange, a small service or two..."
And what might those services be?" Laika was wondering what he could even offer Shailtor if he didn't want his devotion.
"You'd have to seperate from your current companions, of course... Not too hard a feat. Few of them even seem to note your existence. I have some fights for you after that. Nothing you cannot handle, but hard enough for them to be exhilirating, I assure you..."
"Well... it wouldn't be much of a loss to seperate myself from this group... it's not like they'd even notice I'm gone." Laika began to realize that there wasn't much of a reason for him to stay with the force, he was really only needed during battles. He had never been part of the decision making, and was rarely approached, and on even fewer circumstances had approached others.
"Exactly... It's so obvious your place is not here... You're not wanted or appreciated by any of the others. Time to try a different path..."
"You're probably right... but, let me take some time to think this over, and make sure it's what I want to do before I go jumping blindly into this."
"Oh, of course, of course... just don't wait too long... The hunter that takes too long to strike and lets his prey escape is a hungry one..."
"How will I be able to get in contact with you when I've reached my decision?"
"I will reach you soon enough... Have a decision ready by then..."

Posted by: Kaihaku Tue Nov 29, 2005 7:46 am
Cedric breaths out a wretched sigh as the fiend vanishes, his mighty frame trembling and tears beginning to slowly form in his eyes. Just as he seems on the verge of sobbing, he runs a hand through his hair and covers his eyes. For a moment he is still, then he takes a deep breath and removes his hand. Unclasping the chain holding his hammer in place, he looks around the area lifelessly.
[Detect Evil]
[Spot: 20 + 2 = 22]
The face of the Paladin goes ashen as his eyes fall upon the shattered form of Ryhir. With a flash the Holy Knight recalled what had occurred while he was in the stranglehold of the Strife Lord. The bold sacrifice of a warrior who would not be corrupted flared through his memory. His hammer falls from his grasp and a moment later the Paladin falls to his knees. His face twitches. In an instant, the pale face of Cedric is livid, his teeth tightly clenched as he slams a gauntleted fist into the soft earth. Tears openly stream down his face as he surges back to his feet. He looks over the others, every action deliberate despite the rage burning in his eyes. His gaze settles on Van and Castor.
[Sense Motive(Entire Group): 15 + 11 = 26]
[Sense Motive(Castor): 7 + 11 = 18]
[Sense Motive(Van): 2 + 11 = 13]
After a moment, he walks towards Amelios and with a single motion tears the staff of life from the weak grasp of the distracted Kyantol.
[Disarm: 16 + 10 = 26]*
Without a word, Cedric then turns away and walks to the body of Ryhir. He then speaks in a firm voice, "One thousand years of slavery before one moment of willing servitude." Holding forth the staff the Paladin activates it and life returns to the broken body left in the mud.
Ryhir opens his eyes, and lets out a low moan. "Oh god... Cedric?" Ryhir says, looking confused. "Where....?"
The Paladin's words are tightly controlled and quiet but fire burns in his eyes, "The fiend has grown weary of his play..." Cedric reaches out a hand to help Ryhir to his feet.
Ryhir reaches up and clasps Cedrics hand, and allows himself to be pulled to his feet, where he stands, weakly. Then he takes a look about, gaining a sense of his surroundings again.
Cedric releases the hand of the warrior and for a moment respect replaces the rage in his eyes. He hands the staff of life to Ryhir before turning back to the others.
Ryhir takes the Staff, using it as a crutch of sorts.
Then the Paladin turns back towards the others, his voice thick with tightly controlled emotion, "Is the taste of temptation sweet in your minds?" Cedric glares at Van, "Fools! Do you believe it was better to let that fiend touch your mind than fight him to the death?"
Cedric turns his gaze to Castor his voice raising like rumbling thunder, "We might have driven him off or forced his hand, instead because we refused to act he was able to accomplish his goal. You claim to value freedom...what freedom is there in fear?! Paralyzed while that...that creature raped your mind and taunted you with your innermost desires?!"
Cedric slams his fists together, his face livid, "How special are you to him? So key to his cause? So unique? I'm certain that I was not the only one to be told such. So very important...not at all like that raving priest we questioned at Algam."
Cedric laughs almost mockingly, "The fate Shailtor offers you is worse than that of the Storm. At least his mind remained his own, unlike the Salamander... Where I was once resolute now there is doubt. He awoke dark emotions in me..." Cedric glares fiercely at Castor, "...we might have repelled him had we struck at once, now the door has been opened..."
[Intimidate: 19 + 10 = 29]
[Modified Character Level Check:
1d20 + character level or Hit Dice + target’s Wisdom bonus [if any] + target’s modifiers on saves against fear
If you fail, Cedric instills the fear of Goddess in all who hear him and fail the modified character level save. The intent is that the group fears the corruption of Shailtor.]
Suddenly Cedric starts forward and steps up to Faralon, snatching an arrow he holds it up. "We stood before him as individuals." Delibrately, he takes the arrow in both hands and snaps it slowly.
"What? So if we're divided, it's my fault?"Faralon backs away from the paladin. Well, somebody's in a bad mood...
As Faralon backs away, Cedric snatches a handful of arrows and attempts to break them together in the same manner. They show almost no strain despite his great might, "We should have stood together against him. I would not recommend making that mistake again." Cedric hands the arrows back to Faralon.
The Paladin steps forward, "Those of you who will stand with me, come together and let us share our temptations. Those of you who wish to stand alone, I recommend returning to your homes." Cedric throws a cold glance at Van as he states this, "This has become a battle against beings who openly defy the Gods. Allies cannot abandon one another. We must not hesitate out of fear else they will slowly twist us into their pawns..."
[CHA Check: 14 + 5 = 19]
Cedric walks slowly away from the others and turns to face them, "In this time, we stand alone... There are no heroes left to fight for us. Meager and weak in the face of such adversity, we are what might be the last hope for our people...for our world. We are what could be the last Shining Force. If the burden is beyond you, there is no shame in turning away now...but from this point on those of us who continue must stand together."
((Not as angry as I wanted... Figured it wasn't terribly lawful good to deck Van and Castor.))
The Paladin takes a deep breath, "Lady Yeesha, we will not move on just yet. The garrison is no safer from the Strife Lord than here. We will complete the meeting that Shailtor interrupted...and some of us will share our temptations."

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Tue Nov 29, 2005 8:36 am
((DRAMABOMB)) "Very well..." Yeesha says. "What are you suggesting, exactly?" Zook returns to the group, wiping oil off his hands with a rag. Cedric looks at her, "No secret torment... Shailtor divided us for a reason, alone we are vulnerable. I'm not forcing anyone to share their temptation but I would recommend sharing it with honesty instead of letting it fester within you."
Zook smiles faintly, the tip of his finger red and swelling.
Ah, of course...He would promise the same to each and every other person here.
But still...to tell my temptations? If I were to be vague, would that be an acceptable answer? Faralon wonders.
"He promised me the world," the tinker says simply. "Everything I've dedicated my life to pursue, for the simple cost of my life and the lives of all Rune."
"He told me he'd give me adventures beyond my wildest dreams and the heart of another. I told him I'd kill him if he didn't shut up."
"We could talk back to him?" Zook stares blankly at the swashbuckler.
Faralon says, "Heh, would could be done if he promised the world to everyone? Surely, it would then be a lie. If such a thing were so easily possible, wouldn't life already be that?"
"I'd have never thought of that..." Zook mutters.
Damas stands off to the side for now, gripping his staff tightly and biting his lip. Cedric is right... We can't let fear control us... I can't let fear control my life any longer...
"We don't have to take Shailtor at face value for him to succeed. Sowing the seeds of doubt in an already fragmented group does perhaps as much harm as setting us at arms against each other."
"Of course you can talk back to him," Ashathel said. "Shailtor, for all his mumblings, is mortal. Too powerful for us to do anything now," he added, stealing a glance at the Paladin, "but mortal nonetheless."
"I am not...versed in the arcane. My first notion of such an invasion was that it was meant to plant images, not to encourage dialogue." Zook wonders out loud.
Ryhir merely listens with narrowed eyes.
"Still, it is helpful to note, and I will make use of it should this happen again." Zook decides.
Faralon chimes in, "Not plant images...convince. It was meant to sway our minds to his liking."
Zook frowns. "I doubt he genuinely expected to convert us."
"He did," Ashathel said simply, turning an unflinching gaze on his brother.
Faralon blinks, "What? What are you suggesting?"
Zook's frown deepens. "Is this perhaps not the best time for such a confrontation?"
Cedric nods, "Yes. No judgment."
Faralon shakes his head, "It's exactly what Shailtor wanted. Did you not hear his parting words? He wants us to fight with each other."
Kethra stands up beside Ryhir, glancing at him for a moment. If I had done something, Ryhir wouldn't have had to die like that... I feel like such a fool for having even considered that snake's offer! The young monk clenches her fists.
"I'll talk to you personally, brother, when there is more time for family issues."
"He wanted us to doubt each other," Damas finally says.
Faralon glares at Ashathel, "You have no faith in me."
Zook raises his hands in a concilatory gesture, a large welt visible on the fingers of his left hand. "Please, please. It appears now that I cannot be as apathetic as I was before towards the notion of unity."
Cedric frowns, "What happened to your finger?"
Zook looks at the holy knight, startled, and then bursts out in a nervous giggle. "Oh, well... I had quite a start a moment ago, and got my hand caught in some of the heavier gears. It should clear up soon."
Ryhir stands, wobbling a little. "Any pretense of unity is a sham. That much has been shown." With that comment, Ryhir goes to join Kyoji in the cart.
Cedric frowns but says nothing and reaching out touches Zook's finger.
[Lay on hands | +5HP | Zook]
"Oh... many thanks." Zook says as the welts on his hand fade before his eyes.
"I said later," Ashathel hissed. Then changing the subject, he said "We have never been unified. Never. The point of this confrontation was to try and sway those who could be swayed, before we do finally band together."
"What Ashathel says is the sad and unfortunate truth..." Damas sighs and looks as if he is about to say more, but stops himself. "...Nevermind."
"Do you have more to say, Damas?" Ashathel asks, "Best to be out with it now, while it is all out in the open."
"You always hit the nail right on the head, don't you?" Damas chuckles sadly and moves a little bit closer. "Shailtor...spoke to me as well..."
"He offered me my sister back, and my master, Hanzou, alive and well..." Kyoji says, quietly. "But he cannot be trusted, so I didn't give it much thought..."
"My leg back... My magic back..." Yeesha shakes her head sadly. "But even my life isn't worth my soul."
"Without your soul, you have no life. If the Storm showed us anything, it was that." Zook states.
"So then what do we do from here? Is there a way to determine who has believed his lies without alienating anyone?" Ashathel questions.
"Is a witch hunt any less a success for Shailtor than an outright battle?" Zook asks.
Cedric shakes his head, "Not now... I have heard of a spell the clerics use that allows only the truth to be spoken in a circle..."
"There's...no point in saying what I was offered, but I...may as well, if it helps." Faralon looks at Ashathel at this, then looks to the ground, "It's what most men want..."
"But we should not accuse one another..." Cedric sighs, "Support, not break down."
"Fame, fortune...women...glory...Is that really a surprise?" Faralon raises his voice, angrily, his eyes on his brother, "Is it?! Certainly, it's tempting...But it's far from worth it!!!"
"Unity begins with trust, does it not? How can we ever claim unity, now or hence, if we must bear the burden of mutual suspicion?"Zook asks quietly.
"Are you so sure?" Ashathel snapped back. "Are you so sure it hasn't taken hold of you already?"
Cedric sighs, "Ashathel, not now. Later we will summon Derrik and see if he can aid us in this matter."
"No... perhaps not here, but now. Faralon, come with me. We need to talk now." Ashathel states.
Faralon was about to reply, but stopped as he saw Cedric's mouth open. No...Arguing with my brother here would only rouse suspicion. Faralon: "...What can Derrik d...What? Aren't we in the middle of a meeting?"
Ashathel states firmly, "Now."
Cedric frowns, "Ashathel? What can you not say before us?"
"He knows." Ashathel nods to Faralon.
Cedric looks at Faralon, "What is he talking about?"
What could he possibly know? Faralon: "Honestly, I have no idea. I do know, however, that I am not leaving this meeting until it is finished."
"A thousand voices swell in a thousand different songs, ensuring that whate'er they sing, they do not sing it long." Jimbeddo's singsong voice had found itself in Zook's mind again.
"Then I politely ask that you adjourn the meeting now, Cedric, so I may speak to my brother in private." Ashathel says.
Cedric continues to frown but nods, "Very well... We will resume when the two of you are done your discussion..."
"Thank you," the swashbuckler said, bowing. As he walked by the Paladin, he whispered, "Be ready to Lay on Hands."
Cedric arches an eyebrow but says nothing.

Posted by: Kaihaku Tue Nov 29, 2005 8:53 am
In the heavy silence, Cedric looks at the others for a long moment before looking to the ground. "As for me... In an instant my defiance was crushed and mastery of my mind passed over to him. Although I was aware of it, the world seemed almost to no longer exist..."
The Paladin swallows uncomfortably, "Emotions that I am unfamiliar with welled up inside me... I was nearly overcome with jealousy and doubt. I...still feel these strongly... I doubt you...all of you and wonder if you truly deserve any sacrifice on my part. I am jealous of the freedom of those I protect... I cannot recall ever feeling this way before, even in my youth."
Cedric frowns, "I attempted to resist him at every turn but he was beyond me... His mocking words still haunt my mind...but even more so his praise...for he stated that I was special and unique... Of great value, not a mere pawn but a rook or knight..."
The Paladin rubs his brow, "He offered me power... dominion... absolute authority... I found myself filled with desires that I had never felt strongly before... Thoughts that seemed unnatural came to me..."He chuckles weakly, "He even offered me the Goddess." Cedric continues after a moment, "I cannot be certain...if he only gave me these emotions or...or if he uncovered them... If they are my own only hidden till now..."

Posted by: Aldur Tue Nov 29, 2005 8:59 am
Amelios stood up and recovered his staff from the Paladin and shook his head, dispelling his mind from the Strife Lord's voice the kyantol shudders heavily and leans in his staff, wondering what sort of monster can have that effect on him. He makes his way over to the paladin, mumbling an apology for being frozen.
He looks about him and shudders once more, the words of that demon still rebounding in his mind.
That...how...Such willpower, on power with the Goddess...

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Tue Nov 29, 2005 9:38 am
((Everyone who was tempted: Gain 250 XP. Everyone who outright rejected the temptation: Gain an addition 100 XP.))

Posted by: Arcdragnbreth Tue Nov 29, 2005 9:47 am
*Faralon reluctantly follows, still unsure just what knowledge his brother perchanced upon.* Ashathel continues to walk, until he's sure that the others are well outside of earshot. Once settled, he unsheathes his sword and drops it on the ground at Faralon's feet.
"We're going to talk, now," he said.
*Still confused, Faralon speaks.* Faralon:
"...Wha...what do you want? Has Shailtor gotten to you?"
"Tell me what happened between you and the half-human."
"What? You mean Kethra?"
"What happened between the two of you?" the elf asked, slipping the rapier free as well before tossing it next to the courtblade.
*Faralon looks at the weapons, then looks at Ashathel with a slightly worried, yet slightly confused look on his face.*
"I played a song...she danced. You can ask her yourself. Why?"
"Shailtor said you tried and failed to rape her," Ashathel said, his hands balling into fists.
"What?!"
*Faralon reacts strongly - acting rather surprised.*
"And you believe that snake?"
"So you did," Ashathel said quietly, easily seeing through his brother's attempt to bluff him. "Is that what you spoke to the merchant about? Something to use on her?"
*Faralon shakes his head, still denying ever doing so.*
"No, of course not! Sure, we were talking about her! She's interesting!"
"So then you thought of this all on your own?" Ashathel snapped, moving towards his brother then backing away.
"I thought of nothing! Shailtor has confused you with lies! Maybe if you were more calm you would see that!"
"Fine, then. You insist on holding on to this farce of a life you currently lead..."
Ashathel took a few steps back, then raised his hands. In an instant, a burst of electricity fired at the bard.
((Lesser Orb of Elec cast. 13 damage to Faralon.))
*Faralon's eyes widen as he jumps back in pain.*
"What has gotten into you?! You would attack me, your own brother, with such a spell?!"
"If you're here to kill me... So be it..."
*Faralon draws his Rapier.*
"If you're here to shame our family and take advantage of women," Ashathel spat, his words full of venom, "then so be it."
((Faralon misses his AoO. Lesser Orb of Electricity cast; 15 damage to Faralon.))
*Faralon casts Cure Light Wounds on himself. Maybe...Maybe I can outlast him...*
((Cure Light Wounds cast; 6 HP healed.))
Ashathel, still enraged, shot a fiery ray at his brother, singeing him even further.
((Faralon's AoO deals 2 damage but fails to break Ashathel's concentration. Scorching Ray cast; Faralon takes another 14 damage.))
*Faralon clenches his fist.*
"Why?! You take me away to murder me?!"
*Faralon casts Cure Light Wounds on himself yet again.*
((Cure Light Wounds cast; 13 HP healed.))
"Murder you? Is that what you think?" Ashathel said, seconds before a beam of sonic energy extended from his palm. "No... I'm going to beat you senseless for your poor judgement, but I'm not going to kill you."
*Faralon casts Expeditious Retreat!*
"I can't believe you're serious!"
"Then run, brother. Keep running. And don't stop until you've run far clear of me. But if you ever attempt to defile a woman like that again... I will kill you."
As Faralon ran back to the camp, Ashathel dispelled the sonic sword and shook his head. Grabbing his weapons, he sighed deeply.
"I should have listened to Mother after all..."

Posted by: Dark Maiden Tue Nov 29, 2005 10:23 am
((Behold, Damas shares his temptations and his past! I thought this was as good a time as any )) "...Is the table still open for sharing our temptations?" Damas asks, looking at Cedric. "Perhaps I'll feel better if I get this off my chest." The young sorcerer sighs and leans on his staff. "Shailtor also attempted to use my fears and my desires against me. He tried to convince me that all of you hate me..." He hangs his head for a moment, tears welling up in his eyes. "Doubt tugged at my heart and even now, I do not know whether or not to believe it." Feeling the strength leave his legs, he takes a seat on the ground Indian style and places his staff down as well. "Of course, he played on my desires as well... I can't believe I'm about to tell all of you this."
Damas takes a deep breath of fresh air. "Before all of this, I used to live on the grounds of an adventurer's guild near Iom territory. My mentor Auril, who was more like a mother really...she took me in after my parents died. I was young, so I really don't remember very much about them. Life there was pretty typical I suppose, until I found out that I was born with these...powers. As you can imagine...things were pretty weird and scary for me until I learned to control them. That aside, I had friends, and...well...someone special to me. Her name was Valkana Norovir, she was a rogue... A cheerful and upbeat girl with a desire to be the greatest thief in the realms." He chuckles. "Despite this, I was attracted to her. We got close." His cheeks tinge crimson and he looks away for a moment.
After gathering his thoughts, he continues. "Sadly, I suppose that happiness is not something one with cursed blood such as me is entitled too. I woke up to the stench of smoke and blood one morning, and the sound of screams. When I went outside to check, I found bodies everywhere...including my two best friends Amon and Sapphire. They were already dead... Then, I found Auril... She was alive, but pinned beneath a large piece of rubble that I couldn't move. Another person that I failed to save... After that...I saw Valkana coming towards me, but something was different. Her eyes were glassy...and her hand was cold when I grabbed it. She suggested that we hide, and I had no reason not to trust her. Once we were down in the basement of the dorm, I turned my back to her...and...well...I got a knife in it. I turned around to see none other than Valkana holding the knife before I passed out. By all rights, I shouldn't even be here now..."
There is a long pause and tears now flow freely from the sorcerer's eyes and down his face. Damas chokes them back and continues with his story, despite his fear. "Shailtor offered to bring them back if I would serve him... He claimed he could help me achieve greater power, and that I would never have to fear loss again." He looks each and every one of them in the eye, knowing they had all been pretty worried about his condition. "That night at the inn, while I was dancing with you Isyndel..." His gaze then turns directly to her for a moment then back to the group as a whole. "...I saw someone I knew walking away from the room, so I really had no choice but to see if it was real. My search led me to an inn room where I found a figure in the corner... It was...Valkana...but she wasn't the same... Her form was...ghostly...incorporeal, and her body was wounded and torn up. When she saw me she came at me like a bat out of hell, but faded the moment she touched me... I felt a deep chill...like she was imparting some of her pain and her suffering on me... I do not know why her spirit lingers here, even after asking Shailtor... If what he said was true, however, she is among us right now. Of course unless she chooses to make herself known, we won't know that for sure."
"For a moment there, doubt had a grip on me, but then I remembered my friends. All the people I loved, and how ashamed they would be if I even considered Shailtor's offer. Auril always told me that if I wanted something bad enough, I had to fight for it and that I would sometimes have to suffer and bleed. I miss my friends, and..." He pauses for a moment, and then speaks in a firm voice. "...I still love Valkana. Part of me always will, but a guarantee at power and happiness is not worth my soul. I refused Shailtor's offer." Damas stands up again and dusts his pants off. "I've always wanted to be accepted, and not judged for what I am instead of who I am. I know that if I want to be a powerful mage like you my lady..." He looks towards Yeesha for a moment when he says this. "I will have to work hard for it." He then looks towards Isyndel, his face turning crimson again. "I know that if I want acceptance and to be treated as an equal, I have to earn that too." The young sorcerer smiles. "My achievements would have no meaning if I did not accomplish them on my own."
((I'll get to Kethra's tomorrow probably))

Posted by: Wandering Dezorian Tue Nov 29, 2005 3:54 pm
Brand growls. "He offered me peace." he says, "And an end to all war. I've seen war, up in the northlands, and I've seen its cost, but what he offered wasn't peace. Look to the Storm for that." the birdman adds with a spit. "So he argued with me, and I've no question he bested me. I've never been a debator or well versed in flowery speech, and I've never had my innermost thoughts laid bare. I can't say I cared for the experience."
The birdman pauses for a moment, then shrugs.
"And, just so no man can claim I hid anything, he reminded my quite vocally, as I'm sure you've heard, of how near to death some members of the team came on my watch. And of just how angry I was with the team, both during the battles, and over the discussions afterwards. I was starting to get over that, but I have no doubt friend godling was trying to revive that... disappointment."
"Eh, I doubt I'll ever end up calling many of you friend, and I doubt you'll care much whether or not you have my respect. Such things aren't necessary for this fight. Or maybe that's just the anger the godling aroused in me, talking through my mouth still. Either way, I'll fight till the last feather falls free against this godling, with you or alone." Brand finishes, looking disgruntled over having spoken so long and so publicly.

Posted by: Aldur Tue Nov 29, 2005 4:38 pm
((Incidentally for Kai's Paladin of d00m check. 17+6+7=30. Take that Mr. Fear.))

Posted by: Kaihaku Tue Nov 29, 2005 4:47 pm
Cedric gains a level in Kensai. HP +9 Will Save +1 BAB + 1 +2 Ranks Knowledge(Planes)
+1 Rank Concentration
+1 Rank Knowledge(Religion)
+1 Rank Diplomacy
+1 Rank Sense Motive
+1 Rank Ride
Gains Power Surge ability.
Cedric frowns at the words of Damas, "We'll think of something to do about this later... Perhaps we can drive this wayward spirit away with divine energy."
The Paladins nods at the words of Brand, "Yes...such power... Alone not one of us can match it, only together do we have the slightest hope."

Posted by: Cyrus Tue Nov 29, 2005 8:29 pm
[...There's no way Castor's making that check.] Castor listens quietly to the temptations, the angry words of the paladin still fresh in his mind. The power of those words held him in a state of strange fear, not unlike the cleric at the watchtower, and yet much different. This fear was directed...the offer the godling had made had become treacherous, a snake that threatened to strike and choke the life from him should he come toward it. The doubt in this expedition ebbed as this new emotion took its place...No doubt what the paladin wanted, and yet, he couldn't help being grateful to him. When Brand had finished recounting his ordeal, Castor decided it was time for him to say his peace.
Rising, the minotaur first turned his gaze toward Cedric, shame written clearly in his eyes. "I know nothing I can say will make up for my actions. While some of us couragously fought against him, I was like a wounded animal, staring blankly at the hunter before the last of it's life drains away. Though I've never had my brain picked before," he said as his head turned to the ground, "I know it's no excuse."
The mercenary draws a deep breath, expelling it and lifting his head toward the group before continuing. "What he promised me was...a clean slate. A new life. I was to be a great leader, not only of the minotaur tribes, but of all..." he pauses, a grimace appearing on his face as he continues, "...monstrous races. There was to be a final war, and then, peace and unity. A minotaur would be treated like a human, and vice versa. He also promised...something else..." At this, his face darkened, and once again, he drew in another breath to gather his thoughts.
"Perhaps it would be best if I explained some things," Castor said when he continued his speech. "To be considered an adult, a minotaur goes through three tests of strength. I won't go into detail, but I will say that there are no weapons involved. Also, unlike what popular belief states, tribe have laws, and are very strict about enforcing them. In my tribe, the punishment for murder is understandably harsh: death to the accused, and the family becomes outcast. I believe you can all see where I am going with this."
"When I was young, there was another like me. We become fast friends, sharing dreams and ambitions, and boasting of our triumphs. He had all that I didn't...Wisdom, wit and will. We jokingly pledge we'd rule our the tribes one day." He stopped and chuckled deeply as he remembered the good days, before his face turned somber and he resumed speaking. "When pairs were picked for the final test, we drew each other. At the time, we couldn't think of better rivals."
"After that, I didn't see him for months. It was odd, but I didn't think much of it, as I was too busy training for the fight. When we entered the arena, though...I didn't recognize him. His hair had matted, his features had become brutish and cruel, and his eyes had a wild glow to them. When the match began, he lunged at me, knocking me down while choking me with his malformed hands...I don't remember what happened next. I was standing over his crumpled form, blood running down my horns...and then, I ran. I still don't know why they let me live." He gathered another breath, expelling the raging torment he felt as he recall the tale. "Shailtor...offered to return him to what he was, and to have him rule with me."
With that, the minotaur was finished, and resumed his seat under a particularly old oak.

Posted by: Dark Maiden Wed Nov 30, 2005 1:32 am
((A small reply to Cedric's statement about teh ghost, before the second large chat)) Damas listens to the others speak about their temptations in silence, his expression solemn. The young sorcerer's ears perk up when Cedric addresses him, and he turns his head back towards the paladin again. "Valkana appears to have suffered enough already, Cedric... I do not wish to add to it. However, I know little of spectral beings, so I will make a note to ask someone well versed in that area later."

Posted by: Kaihaku Wed Nov 30, 2005 1:50 am
"The positive influence of the divine returns things to what they should be. The undead are returned to peaceful death." Cedric states before glancing in the direction the two brothers went and slowly standing, "We can continue talking once they return. Summon Derrik..." A grim look crosses the Paladin's face, "There are preparations to be made..."
Amelios, having recieved his staff and seeming to not hear the paladin's words mumbles to himself, before roughly shaking his head, eventually coming back to his normal self. "That was...different"
In short order, the scroll is produced and Derrik summoned.
Amelios looks over as the merchant is summoned and says nothing, merely assessing the situation, letting Cedric handle business as usual.
Surprisingly, it is not Derrik who responds, but one of his apprentices.
"Er, now's not a good time... The boss is..." the white dressed apprentice says, before being interrupted.
"Yin! Shut up! Get back to work! I'll take the f***ing call!" Derrik's voice rages forth as he pulls himself from a portal.
"What? What the hell do you want?" Derrik asks, clearly angry. His right arm is missing, severed and bandaged at the shoulder.
Amelios frowns at this exchange, noting it in his mind to ponder over later. He wondered why the merchant sounded so annoyed. And gasps. "How...what happened to you?"
Damas' eyes widen and his jaw practically drops. "Dear god..."
"Oh this? This??? This little thing???" Derrik asks, voice rising as he wiggles his stump.
"This is the result of me breaking my own damn rule! Never do your own dirty work! I've obeyed that simple principle for freakin' ever! So what do I do when I get a juicy hint? Do I send a minion after it? NO! I GO MYSELF! CAUSE I'M AN IDIOT!" Derrik's voice lowers somewhat, seemingly calming down. "And then, to top it off... I'm out of healing supplies. I have to wait a day for more to arrive..."
The cleric's face seems interested as the merchant mentions a juicy hint and yet remains silent, letting the merchant continue about his story.
Ryhir smiles a bit at the Merchant's self-directed tirade.
"Oh, the Strife Lords only have a FEW layers of wards around their stronghold. Surely I, the great Swiftjoke, can break in and screw with their plans a bit! Hahahaha-NOT!" Derrik shouts the last word. "So what do you want? Why do you call the friggin' limbless wonder???"
Ryhir stands and hobbles over to the Merchant. "Amelios, tend to friend merchant's wounds. I don't suppose you have anything that would solve the lack of an arm?" He then turns back to the Merchant, "We ourselves just encountered one of the Strife Lords."
"My wounds are sealed fine, I'm just waiting on a scroll of regeneration..." Derrik mumbles, "Lemme guess... Shailtor?"
"That's the one that was missing of the two when I was mucking around. That guy creeps the hell out of me. I can take Xadoss, he's quite literally a rockhead... Erebeus is tough, but I know what to expect... Shailtor..." Derrik shudders. "Man... That guy is messed up..."
Faralon hurries back to the group, clearly roughed up. He breathes heavily, looking back towards his brother.
Ashathel strides in a short time later, uninjured besides a small scratch on his arm but clearly flustered and still angry.
"So, what? What do you want?" Derrik asks.
Cedric looks at the returning brothers then back to Derrik, "Yes, Shailtor has been tormenting with us. We were hoping that you might help us with some of the...more...unpleasant effects his visit had on our psyches... I'm sorry that our timing was poor."
Faralon's focus is on Ashathel. He keeps a watchful eye on him, clearly uncomfortably.
"Not your fault," Derrik mutters, holding his stump, "Oh, when you see Rhizor, tell him his Fleshraker's in. I made a poor choice and suffered the consequences. Such is life."
Faralon clenches his fist at the words. Derrik was not alone.
For a moment something flickers in Cedric's eyes and he mummers something under his breath, "Better than doing nothing..."
"Nothing? Doing nothing??? You think I've been doing nothing???" Derrik asks, brow furrowing as he glared at Cedric.
The Paladin sighs, "No...not you... I apologize...it was to a conflict among us that I was referring."
"Accepted," Derrik grumbles. "I've been hard at work, unlike some LAZY APPRENTICES I COULD MENTION!!!" Derrik yells into the air.
"So... again. What did you want?" Derrik asks.
"A spell. One to illicit the truth." Ashathel states, "However unpleasant it may be," he added, just before Cedric spoke.
Cedric sighs, "The fiend touched my mind and has weakened my resolve... Do you know of anything that might help remove the effect? At the least help us to withstand him in the future? He promised to return..."
Kethra remains slightly off to the side, a soft sigh escaping her lips. "Don't be so hard on yourself..." she murmurs to Cedric. "You weren't the only one..."
"Your clerics should hav a Zone of Truth spell, you don't need me," Derrik replies to Asathel. "Why do you want one, anyway? And Cedric, I am sorry to say you'll need to fight your own battle for your soul."
Faralon looks over at Ashathel, clenching his fist. What?! As if he has not caused me enough pain already...
"Everything I have isn't that good against Shailtor's particular brand of nastiness..." Derrik sighs.
"Whatever you have is better than nothing," the swashbuckler commented. "Anything that will help is appreciated."
Cedric nods, "Very well... Thank you anyway, I would only ask then for something to aid me in my meditation."
"Yeah, I'll find something for you... I might not have anything to resist his corruption, but I can find something that will let you put up more of a fight should he try something like possession." Derrik states.
"Before you go, though... will your wound be okay? Can we help you with that now?" Ashathel asks in concern.
Derrik looks at his stump for a minute, then he chuckles softly. "No... No that's alright. I'll wait."
If my brother truly intends to do that...Maybe I should just talk to one of the priests myself and atone...There's no reason the whole party needs to be involved... Faralon closes his eyes for a moment, frowning.
Derrik presents the tunic, Cedric hands over the 2250 gold.
"A moment, swiftjoke." With that, Ryhir raises his arms and slides his Chain Shirt off with a grunt, "Could you have the enchantment on this strengthened?"
"Whoa, hey now... I'm not into guys..." Derrik says as Ryhir takes off his shirt.
"Oh, enchantment? Sure," Derrik says as he reaches for the shirt, then frowns as he remembers he lacks an arm, "Yin! Yin!!! Get your ass down here!" Derrik shouts.
The white dressed apprentice promptly appears.
Ryhir tosses Swiftjoke a wink. "There's a first time for everything." Then laughes, before it degrades into a coughing fit, Ryhir's face closing up in pain.
"Get his chain shirt and get it to the enchanters for strengthening," Derrik orders as the apprentice walks towards Ryhir.
"Is that all?" Derrik asks.
Cedric frowns, "Where is the Strife Lord's stronghold?"
"I'm not going to tell you. You'll do something stupid, like charge in. It's better if you complete your mission and find the Prince. THEN I'll spill the beans. Damnation, if I can't sneak past their defenses, you don't have a chance," Derrik says, flapping his stump up and down. "I was lucky to get out with everything but my arm."
Cedric smiles slightly, "So we don't wander into it unprepared... I thought it might be in Iom..."
"No, it's not here." Derrik states.
"Oh rest assured, you'll find them, but I'd rather you find the Prince first and foil their plans here while you're in the area," Derrik says.
Faralon looks at Derrik, curiously. Breathing in and out once, he speaks up, finally, "How exactly did you come to learn the location of the Strife Lord's stronghold, then?"
"I have my sources... A spy here, a spell there, a bribe here, a magical item over there, and so forth," Derrik replies to Faralon.
"Are there any others? Not who merely oppose but who are making progress? Are we alone?" Cedric asks.
When Cedric asks about other groups opposing the Strife Lords, Derrik's mouth slowly slides into a wicked grin, "Oh... Oh, most certainly... They've made quite a few enemies... and they're all catching up to them..."
Faralon frowns, "And you seem amused by that, why? Are they enemies of yours, too?"
Cedric arches an eyebrow, "I hope they withstand... I would hate to become the sole focus of the Strife Lords..."
"You might say that," Derrik says with a predator's look.
The Paladin goes silent as Derrik makes his comment, his eyes examining the merchant questioningly.
"If the Strife lords weren't enemies before, I imagine they certainly are now..." Ryhir mentions.
"Oh, I'm sure some will stand and some will fall," Derrik says, nodding. "But there should be enough so that their attentions are split."
Cedric nods formally, "Thank you... Please tend to your wound."
"Aye. Is that all, then?" Derrik asks.
Damas' ears twitch and he turns his head to Derrik for a moment. "Indeed," he says in a concerned tone. "It could get worse if you don't."
"Is that a threat?" Derrik snaps.
"No, of course not." Damas stammers.
"Good, because I was joking. Fare thee well," Derrik says as he uses his one arm to wrap his cape around himself.
Both he and his apprentice vanish in a burst of smoke.
Amelios is unusually silent as he merely stoically watched the exchange, wondering about a few things that have been said. He sighs as the merchant leaves and looks to the others.
Cedric looks back to Faralon, "What happened?"
Faralon looks at Cedric, then turns his gaze to the ground, "Nothing. Don't worry about it..."
Amelios notes the bard appears to be in less than good shape. He moves over to Faralon concerned. "Are you alright? Here..." He puts his hand on the Bard's shoulder and prays for the holy power of Mitula.
Damas notes Faralon's wounds and his eyes widen. "Are you sure? Those wounds look pretty nasty..."
Faralon simply shakes his head at Damas, frowning...He then turns to face Amelios and nods, "...Thank you."
The cleric smiles brightly at Faralon, his quick mind making him wonder what did this...and the conclusion was rather obvious to him. Yet he said nothing. "No problem..."
Cedric arches an eyebrow, "We can discuss the matter later..." He looks to Ryhir, "Before we were interrupted you were displeased with the formation of the squads... Why? How do you feel they could be better arranged?"
Ryhir's eyes narrow in thought for a moment. "I don't quite recall, except thinking I perhaps would have placed members differently. I also agree that Kyoji should perhaps maintain seperate, though if he feels he can lead effectively and still be combat effective, through splitting his group or what not, thats fine Mostly, I feel my group ill devised. My abilities are geared towards striking fast and hard on the move, and that would be the type of group I would be best suited for leading, honestly..."
"I trust your ability to lead, Ryhir. That was my reasoning for assigning you the members of your group..." Cedric replies.
Ryhir shrugs. "If you say so."
Cedric frowns, "Perhaps you can take Kyoji's position once Jokulligr has become accustom to us. I did envision the first squad as being fleet of foot."
Ryhir nods.
Cedric nods, "We can talk on the road... Let us continue on."

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Wed Nov 30, 2005 2:31 am
The group continues on to Iom Castle, where it is treated to a night without fear, safe behind the castle walls guarded by Cypress troops. Hot baths, good meals and real beds await them after the road... But it only lasts for a night. In the morning, Yeesha orders that they press on to the ruin of Iom Shrine... And it's only a day or two away.
((My next post will move things to the Shrine. If you have any preparations, things you'd like to do, make them now.))

Posted by: Rusty Wed Nov 30, 2005 3:20 am
*Faralon approaches Amelios, looking a bit tense.* Faralon: "Could I speak with you for a bit, Amelios?" Amelios looks at the troubled Bard and nods. "Certainly. What troubles you? Something that fiend said or...family problems?" *Faralon sighs, then looks right into Amelios's eyes.*
Faralon: "Neither...Though, could I have your word that you would tell no one what I am about to tell you? I need a promise before I can go on. Please..."
"Well..." Amelios is surprised at Faralon's change of tune from just last night and becomes serious. He nods at the bard. "I swear on my faith to the Goddess that I will not divulge what you are about to say."
*Faralon nods.*
Faralon: "Thank you, Amelios...I will not forget this...And know that my brother also knows, for he has learned from the wicked Shailtor...If we can plead to him that no others need to learn of it...then perhaps we can all move on. I would like to ask for a spell of atonement...I have committed a terrible crime." *Faralon lowers his head in shame.*
The Cleric smiles sadly at Faralon. "What have you done? Reveal it to. And is that why you came back so scathed? As for the spell...It is yet beyond me I am afraid." Amelios begins to wonder what exactly the Bard had done that was so awful.
*Faralon frowns.*
Faralon: "Yes it is why...Y..you see. Early in our adventures, I took a liking to Kethra, as you may or may not have known. Well...I was going to try and win her over with my natural charms, of course, but...That merchant, Derrik, convinced me that I should...Well...he gave me a potion..." *Faralon looks at Amelios. A glimmer shone in his eyes...Though a sad one. Tears were beginning to form.*
The cleric's eyes seem to glimmer faintly in amusement at the first part of the statement, remembering he had been there when the monk and bard had first met. Along with Damas the sorceror. The glimmer fades and the cleric listens in silence to the next part of the conversation. "A potion...a potion eh? Would it be...a love potion by any chance?"
*Faralon nods.*
Faralon: "...I may not better than any others here the consequences of temptation...and giving in to them. As to disguise the drink, I poured it into some sake. I will admit, at first I was delighted with how strongly the effects were...But they did not last long, and, not that I should be saying this, if it helps any, it went not much further than kissing before the spell would break..."
*Faralon looks to the ceiling...Not entirely focusing on anything. Tears begin to fall down each cheek now.*
Faralon: "And apparently the snake didn't tell me there would be side effects, either, even though I asked of them...I'm sure you've noticed them.."
*Faralon looks back to the ground.*
Faralon: "But it's pointless pointing any fingers at him now...My own temptation is what caused all of this...Rather...the fact I gave into it..."
Amelios looks at the Bard with pity. And yet...it makes sense now. He's desperately frightened. He would never be saying a word if Shailtor had not told Asathael...but be that as it may...he has come for my help and I have little right to refuse him. The kyantol took a deep breath and stared hard at the bard. "The side effects explain last night indeed...Kethra is indeed not like that. But I wonder...how far would you have gone if the potion managed to work for longer I wonder? Though it does appear that you are sorry...still before we look at atonement, answer my question please."
*Faralon frowns.*
Faralon: "I don't...I don't think I could have...resisted...But I cannot say for certain...But still...It's more or less what I was used to before this adventure...though I never used magical charms to woo women before..."
*Faralon shakes his head in shame of himself.*
Faralon: "...When we spoke to Acacia, and I saw how she had become from being abused in that way...The more I thought about that, the more I realized how Kethra would be if I had gotten my way...or even if she just found out. That is why I have not told her...She would be devastated if she found out!"
*The tears fall in greater numbers, turning into streams down his cheeks.*
Amelios sighs sadly and nods. "Atonement can only begin when you apologise to the person you wronged. It is a fundemental rule...gotten your way? So you would have stolen her innocence...a gift recieved only once? Ah Faralon...you have wrought a great folly. Yet it is not too late to repent! I will...tell no one and try to help you dissuade your angry sibling. But I feel that you must tell Kethra. She must already be confused because of what happened that night...still the choice is yours. And I shall try my best to support you in either decision."
*Faralon looks into Amelios's eyes, speaking sad and desperately.*
Faralon: "But...It would only hurt her to know...And the rest of the group to know, as well...There is a great lack of trust in the force as it is...She would never speak with me again and in my gut I would feel suffering eternally!"
*Faralon looks to the ground, shaking his head.*
Faralon: "I just cannot do it. If she never speaks to me again if I do not tell her, at least she would not have the same ill feeling within her...Is ignorance not bliss? Isn't she better off not knowing, for it is nothing now? While the side effects may effect her now, I'm certain they're temporary and will go away soon, even if untreated...Is it really necessary she learn of this - especially now?"
"Then you shall make a promise to me young Faralon! When this is over and those foul Strife Lord's defeated...you will tell her. Do you find this acceptable?" The Cleric stares back at the tearful bard, his stern face set, and his eyes a mystery. Adding to this engmatic look the kyantol's fabulous hair billows in the wind, eye's locked with Faralon's. "And I think I will need to keep a watchful eye over Kethra if there are to be more...side effects. Now then...the problem of your brother..."
*Faralon nods, grateful for the added time.*
Faralon: "I...think I can accept that...When there is peace, and if such a deal of time has elapsed, perhaps she would not waste hatred on me, and we could both move on with our lives...Though my brother also knows of this. If he tells her, or anyone else...I...I don't know how I can go on aiding the group. Everyone would hate me...Even my own brother struck me, nearly killing me...I can only imagine what some of the others might do if they have learned what I did. Their energy would not be completely spent against the Strife Lords as it should be...I...I really am sorry. I am temptation's fool."
" Hah...the stories I could tell you...but no, not now. As for Asathael. Let me talk to him. He was wanting a cleric to summon a circle of truth anyway...I shall do my best to dissuade him. And you are reacting as the Lord wanted. I highly doubt the others, sans Kethra herself would actually hit you. I think that maybe your brother was punishing you for giving in. And indeed...seems he did a right dandy job of it." Amelios smiled reassuringly at the panicked bard, hoping to try and dispel his fears.
*Faralon sighs, his tears letting up a bit.*
Faralon: "Maybe they wouldn't, but the lack of trust it would bring into this group that already has trust issues might either have unexpected results, or very unpleasant ones. Cedric has appointed me leader of the magic division of our forces. I do think knowledge of this would harm our efforts in battle."
The Cleric nods and then then frowns, musing to himself. "Then until peace rules once more...this shall stay hidden. And we must do something about Asathael when the chance arises. And once the group is unified...I feel a lot of the trust issues as you so put it shall fade away forevermore. But...I am an optimist."
*Faralon nods.* Faralon: "I'm glad you agree it may be better that this remain hidden for now, then. That is all I had to say. Thank you for listening...I'm not much of a religious person, myself, but..." *Faralon gives a half-smirk, though his face is still somewhat sad looking.* "They're not all so bad, it would seem."
Amelios nodded in agreement. "Remember what I said? More comforting than your stars at least. And I am here to help and guide. It's nice to finally talk to the...real you. Rather than the showman or the one that thinks I'm out to spoil his fun."
*Faralon sighs and nods. Well, it is done...I have actually confessed my act...Even if it is a bit late. As long as no one else learns of this now, I should be okay, I think...Funny, I thought growing up would be a bit more fun...*
Faralon: "Well...If you see my brother, try and convince him that it is better that it needn't be said right now. I would, but...I'm not sure if he wishes to speak to me right now..."
*Faralon pauses, then looks at the door.*
Faralon: "I guess...I will leave now, if that is all right. I...could practice my music."
Amelios nodded. "All right. Do not be afraid to speak to me in the future if you need my aid again."
*Faralon nods.*
Faralon: "Thank you again..."
*Faralon exits, feeling a surge of relief. I'm sorry, Kethra...It would seem that it was not the stars, but my lust, that messed things up between us...I saw how friendly you were to be before I used the potion and after it wore off...Why did I go through with it? Well...what's done is done...At least I've fessed up."

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Wed Nov 30, 2005 4:56 am
Zook approaches Cedric about making a small withdrawal from the party fund and is given the paladin's approval. After a brief encounter with Derrik, the tinker walks away with his new wares: a new, better set of tools, some soap (the perennial grime on his hands was beginning to bother him), and a plain wizard's spellbook, ink, and pen.
The tinker washed his hands, brought his Ioun Stone out to buzzing orbit around his head, and set down to write.

Posted by: GE Silver Dragon Wed Nov 30, 2005 5:56 am
During the Shailtor encounter... Jokulligr watches the dark godling's actions carefully, familiar with the being's capabilities from the elders' instruction, but still somewhat caught off-guard by his casual approach to the group. When the fellow travellers present seem to fall into a sort of hazed muddle, the dragonman finally ceases observing and speaks up, though remaining quite alert. "So you're Shailtor of the Twisted Web. I was wondering if I'd get to meet one of the demigods the elders warned of prior to my departure..."
"Yes, what a fortunate coincedence, eh?" Shailtor says, tilting his head. "It's always fun to meet new people."
Jokulligr can't help but form a smile at this response. "That it is. Tis one of the better aspects of travel. I must admit, you aren't quite what I anticipated, though mention of your penchant for speech over show of brawn seems accurate..."
"Brawn is such a brute thing... I prefer the skill that comes with subtlety and speech," Shailtor replies. "How ARE your elders anyway?"
The monk continues to smile lightly. "Oh, hard at work training the many brothers and sisters of my order to deal with you and your fellows, I would imagine. Though I'm sure you know of said efforts already."
"Indeed... Though I'm afraid they might soon find it hard to teach..." Shailtor says with a snicker.
Jokulligr's expression becomes less pleasant and more questioning with the demigod's snicker. "Oh? Why do you say that?"
"Oh... No reason..." Shailtor says, chuckling.
The monk takes a moment to respond, seeming to consider the suggestion of what Shailtor was saying. Then his smile begins to return, albeit more solemn appearing than before. "Your threats are empty, Shailtor. The doctrines of The Light will live on, no matter what you or your brethren may attempt. You cannot hope to succeed in your plans."
"Confident... Do you think this is the first world we've touched? There have been others..." Shailtor confides to Jokulligr, mentally. "What makes yours so special that it can stand against us?"
Jokulligr's expression becomes passive, responding likewise in thought. "The Light is with us. It provides us with the strength and will to stand against you and all wiles that you may employ. It's strength manifests in those you see before you tonight, and many more in this world. And though you may do your best to suppress it's children, so long as one of them stands, it will continue to exist to stand in your way, and thus we will continue to resist you." Now he himself smirks. "Your powers may be great as far as mortals are concerned, but compared to the divine creator, they are nothing."
"I disagree... they are everything. The creator can create all he wants, there is not a single thing he makes we cannot pervert or twist to our own ends..." Shailtor whispers to Joku's mind. "You'll see that firsthand if you continue with this group..."
"Is that so? We shall see about that. With faith comes peace of mind, body, and soul. I, like the rest of my order, have faith in The Light, and nothing you do will change that. So in that sense, you have already failed in your bid to corrupt all of The Light's creations." He frowns at the last bit of Shailtor's statement, but continues undaunted. "Others across the land have faith as well, including members of this group, and though you may test their devotion, I am confident your devious tactics will be overcome."
"As I said... so confident..." Shailtor snickers. "The Ancients were just as confident and look where they are now... Under our control."
Jokulligr closes his eyes at the mentioning of the loss of The Ancients, taking a moment to go over what he'd been told of the encounters prior to meeting the group, a hint of sadness to his mental voice. "Ah yes...I've heard about the unfortunate souls you've taken from eternal rest and enslaved into your bidding. Your underhanded ways know no bounds, it would seem. If you are unable to bend a child of Light's spirit to your will, you simply wait until they've passed on from this world when they can no longer fend you off and then force them into submission. But..." He opens his eyes again and stares at the demigod, the sadness in his thoughts being replaced by strong determination. "Your dominance over their departed spirits will be short-lived. My companions have already freed the souls of some of your unwilling servants, and we shall see to it the others are released as well. Then you will be dealt the consequences of your actions."
"Pretty words," Shailtor says. "Pretty, pretty words."
----------
At Iom Castle...
Jokulligr explores the castle with interest, not partaking too much in the luxuries it offers save the baths and some food. For the better part of the time spent there he's found either in the library looking over the books avaliable for anything of merit, or upon an outdoor ledge offering a view of the environs surrounding the structure, training himself for what may lie ahead.

Posted by: Dark Maiden Wed Nov 30, 2005 6:01 am
[Faralon/Kethra character scene] A few hours after the group arrives at Iom Castle, after they have had time to shower, eat, and 'find' their rooms, Faralon hears a knock on his door. The familiar and kind sounding voice of Kethra follows shortly after. "Faralon? Are you awake in there?"
*Faralon's eyes widen as he gets up. What does she want??*
Faralon: "Yes. Coming..."
*Faralon slowly opens the door, stretching and yawning a bit.*
Faralon: "Ah...Hello, Kethra. Did you want something?"
Kethra smiles softly, brushing a bit of her honey blond hair off of her shoulder. "Well I just wanted to talk, if that's not too much trouble."
*Faralon blinks.*
Faralon: "Oh..." *He shakes his head, chuckling.* "Of course. Sorry. Yes, that's fine. Everyone has been on edge since Shailtor appeared to all of us...How funny that I'm also taking things so seriously."
Kethra frown a bit and speaks in a concerned tone. "I'm worried about you, actually... You're usually so cheerful."
*Faralon looks at Kethra. Oh, Kethra, if only you knew...*
Faralon: "Don't worry about me. I'll be fine, really."
*Faralon smiles, looking back at where he put his lute.*
Faralon: "If ever I feel down, I always have that to bring my spirits up. I'm not sure many others can say the same thing."
Faralon: "Though, I could only hope my music would also cheer them up."
"I can understand why they're so upset." Kethra looks away from him for a moment.
*Faralon looks down. She can't know, right?...*
Faralon: "About Shailtor?"
"Shailtor tempted me as well... He offered to bring Cale back..." Tears well up in Kethra's eyes. "I feel...so stupid and weak for letting him probe into my mind like that..."
*Faralon shakes his head, looking directly at Kethra.*
Faralon: "I'm certain Shailtor has incredible powers when it comes to affecting a person's mind...He breached all of our thoughts. Do not feel ashamed that he could do that. It is not your fault. You are not stupid or weak, Kethra. Shailtor is just very dangerous, in that regard."
Faralon: "You know well enough we cannot trust him, right? Unless you were to give in to him, you are certainly not weak. Even after you tell me this, I think no less of you - there's no reason to be ashamed."
"Faralon... Thank you." Kethra hugs him tightly for a moment, something a little bit unusual for the monk. After a few minutes, she pulls away and her face is bright crimson. "S-sorry...I shouldn't have... I don't know what came over me."
*Faralon looks a bit surprised, but he smiles lightly, one arm resting on her back until she pulls away. Why now?! Don't fall for me...I'm no good for you...*
Faralon: "It's all right, Kethra. You'll be fine."
*Faralon chuckles. Ah...if only I had never used that potion...*
"Too bad some of the others are not this understanding." Kethra smiles. "I could imagine I would hear some speech about emotions being weak... I firmly believe that there is a time and place for them, yes, and it takes a lot of courage to be honest about what you're feeling." The monk chuckles a little bit. "I must sound so corny..."
*I wish I could...*
Faralon: "You sound fine, to me. I would know...I'm a bard!"
*Faralon laughs again. Well, at least this is cheering me up.*
Kethra giggles a little bit her self. "You always know how to make people laugh."
*Faralon smiles. She's so cute when she giggles like that.*
Faralon: "Oh, how I wish that were true...But I'm glad you think so, at least."
"I find that when I'm too stressed, a good laugh usually clears that right up. My sensei was quite fond of jokes, actually."
"He'd have the entire party roaring." Kethra chuckles a little bit.
*Faralon smiles.* Faralon: "Ah, heheh. That sounds fun. So did you party often?"
"Not at all," Kethra says with a pout. "He just thought that making us laugh every once in a while would be good for us. During training though, he was always very strict."
"Any he never goes easy on you."
"I know this from experience." Kethra grins sheepishly.
*Faralon chuckles lightly.*
Faralon: "Well, I guess he wanted to challenge you so that you would come out that much stronger. I don't personally know many women that can fist fight like you can. The training must have been rigorous."
"Sometimes I felt like I'd keel over, but I kept going. It was the path I had chosen, and I intended to stay on it as long as possible." Kethra rubs her side a bit. "One time he hit me so hard that he broke a few of my ribs."
*Faralon's brow lowers as he imagines the pain.*
Faralon: "Ooo...That does not sound fun..."
"I could barely move for a week." Kethra chuckles faintly.
"I can't say I had to endure anything like that. I guess my life has been pretty easy compared to yours, huh? Or my path, anyway...At least...thus far."
"Everyone has their hardships," Kethra says reassuringly. "Well, I suppose I had better go to sleep while I have an actual bed to sleep in."
*Faralon nods. Perhaps...I'm just starting to experience mine.*
Faralon: "All right. It was nice talking to you again, Kethra. Have a good night, okay?"
"I will. Goodnight." Kethra smiles for a moment and then turns, walking down the hall back towards her room.
((I'll do one for Damas when I can, and flash back to it if I really need to))

Posted by: Arcdragnbreth Wed Nov 30, 2005 6:47 am
[Placeholder for later info. Ashathel gets 4 spells and some other stuff happens.]

Posted by: Kaihaku Wed Nov 30, 2005 7:30 am
The expedition arrived at the Castle of Iom late the night of their encounter with the Strife Lord. Weary in both body and soul, Cedric left the others soon after the bountiful meal but not before making arrangements for Kethra, Acacia, and Isyndel to stay in the same room as Lady Yeesha. Walking along the top of the outer-wall, the Paladin stared out at the landscape distantly, almost sadly before retreating back inside.
Looking over the barracks where the men would be staying, Cedric sighed and began removing his heavy armor. Cleaning it throughly, he then changed into lighter clothing and wearily made his way to the promised hot bath.

Posted by: Aldur Wed Nov 30, 2005 9:15 am

QUOTE (Arcdragnbreth @ Wed Nov 30, 2005 5:47 am)
[Placeholder for later info. Ashathel gets 4 spells and some other stuff happens.]

( Oh it does alright. *grin* )

Posted by: Knight_019 Wed Nov 30, 2005 3:58 pm
((Placeholder for when I get some time. Could be as late as tomorrow.))

Posted by: Kaihaku Wed Nov 30, 2005 8:04 pm
On Cedric's way back from the bath house, he runs into Damas who seems to be heading towards it. The sorcerer isn't all that dirty, but he still seems eager for a warm bath instead of bathing in some cold lake. His eyes settle on the paladin for a moment and he smiles sheepishly. "Oh, hi Cedric... This is really and odd coincidence, because I was kind of looking for you."
The Paladin smiles wearily, "For what aim where you seeking me out?" The eyes of Cedric are kind as always.
Damas appears to be slightly nervous for some reason, but he makes another sad attempt at hiding it. "I am curious about the nature of ghosts and spectral beings."
For a moment, something dark flashes in Cedric's eyes. Ask! Demand! Abuse! Always taking from me yet when I stand in peril they do nothing! Ingrates! I should leave them all to the fate they deserve... Then it passes, a troubled expression remaining on his face, "Ghosts, right? Let me see what I can remember..." What is happening to me? I must meditate...
The Paladin frowns thoughtfully, his face still slightly troubled, "When a spirit is greatly troubled by its death or longs stubbornly to remain alive it will linger in this world...generally attempting to accomplish some aim. Early on in my training, the clerics I served under dealt with the ghost of a merchant. He had fallen ill and passed away, yet his spirit continued to appear before his family...tormenting them. At first the clerics attempted to drive him away with divine power but the spirit would only reappear in a few days." Cedric rubs his chin, "In this regard ghosts are far different from other undead. In the end, the clerics managed to piece together the riddles of the spirit and discovered that the fine wine he had purchased in life was poisoned. The spirit had merely been attempting to protect his family from meeting the same fate as himself. Once the wine was removed and his family no longer in danger, he vanished."
Cedric pauses, "Not all ghosts are so beneficial however... Some are vengeful or even malevolent." Shaking his head, the Paladin continues, "I can only recall a little of the properties of ghosts...perhaps with time I can remember more. I do know that they dwell in limbo on what you call the ethereal plane, passing into this plane and back at will. Also, their visage is terrible and the living who behold it are often weakened."
[Knowledge(Religion): 16 + 5 = 21]
[Knowledge(Planes): 6 + 4 = 10]
Damas ears droop slightly and the young elf sighs, leaning his back against a nearby wall. "Valkana appeared as she did in life, only her body was maimed and her clothes looked like something had tried to tear them off. All I know is she was not that way when I last saw her, but then again it has been over half a year." He looks down at the floor for a moment, and then back to Cedric. "When I think about how she could have died, it just chills me to the bone. She suffered...and she didn't deserve it. The more I think back on that day, the more I begin to think that perhaps it wasn't really Valkana, in one way or another. She was always so kind and we loved each other... It seems...impossible that she could turn on me like that of her own will."
It would be so easy... I could crush his frail pathetic little body with a single blow. As he listens Cedric closes his eyes for a moment, taking a deep breath. Insane... Such thoughts...
The young sorcerer groans and holds his head for a moment, shaking it from side to side. "What could possibly be keeping her here? Is it that she can't accept her death, or is it something else? I just don't know..."
I need not fear being punished... The others would believe that he tried to knife me. The Paladin frowns deeply, evidently distracted by something, "I... I am sorry friend Damas, I need to be alone. I cannot help you further...now..." Cedric moves past the sorcerer unsteadily. I must extinguish the root of this corruption...before it consumes me...
Moving down the hall, Cedric passes the corridor in which rests the chamber of Yeesha. Did I take this route with something in mind? Cedric stops as visions of the women resting in the room flash through his mind. They all trust me...it would be such a simple matter. I am good looking, there's no need even to force them...although that would be more fun. Cedric shudders, beads of sweat appearing on his forehead as another set of images flash through his mind. Taking a deep breath, he moves away from the corridor and towards the barracks. Don't be so uptight. What would the harm be of leaving behind a few bastard childred? All the great lords have done so.
The Paladin enters the barracks clearly shaken and silently makes his way to his belongings. Picking up his hammer, he weighs it deliberately as visions of him smashing his own head in flash through his mind. That would end this corruption before any harm is done. Instead, Cedric sits on the floor and crosses his legs, closing his eyes and searching through his being. It feels so different... I feel so different...
[Concentration 15 + 17 = 32]
((Cedric is mediating and it will take allot to get his attention.))

Posted by: Arcdragnbreth Wed Nov 30, 2005 8:42 pm
"Amelios..." Ashathel said, taking the cleric aside, "I need you to cast a spell for me. Zone of Truth, I believe it is called." Hm. And I thought to go see him first. Amelios smiles at the Elf. "Could I possibly ask the reason? I am able to cast it...yet that spell is usually used in interrogations."
"Look... I know I have no business to ask of this, but I would like to speak with some members of the group privately. To determine where their loyalties lie."
The Cleric's face was marred with a frown. Hm...How to go about this then. "I see. A sound proposal...and who is it exactly that you are doubting? And mayhap you should talk with Yeesha and Cedric before you embark on this course. Prudence is a sound option."
"Some of the quieter members of the group, honestly. Damas, Laika, Merkass..."
Amelios sighs and nods, deciding now would be a good time to do so. "You will need to ask their permission first. They are members of this group. Not people accused of treason. I shall not cast this spell without agreement. And if they refuse they'd better have a damn good reason."
"Understood; I do not mean to step on any toes," Ashathel sighed. "I'll speak to them after we finish the expedition to Ion's resting place.
"While I have your ear. I wish to discuss with you about your brother. If you don't mind. It'll not take too long." The Cleric smiles disarmingly, wondering what he was going to do next. Improvise I guess...
"What is it?" the elf asked, his face devoid of emotion.
"I think you know what is it. Involving his mistaken...choices? Shall we say?" Amelios' smile vanishes as quickly as it appeared, his face stony as he stared back at the elf, ready for a battle of wits.
"So he has confessed his actions to you. Funny... he's never been the type to do such a thing," Ashathel commented.
"Indeed. Mayhap he is trying to change...or just scared senseless by your somewhat justified punishment. However...what do you plan to do about this? I should like to know. For I have asked a boon of your sibling." The cleric smiled wistfully, awaiting the coming arguement.
"It depends on what the boon is," Ashathel said.
"Alright. Then what was your original idea before speaking to me then?" The cleric questioned.
"About him?"
"Indeed."
"I don't know," Ashathel sighed. "I honestly don't know what to do. I'm not mother, who babied him; nor am I father who would usually have sound advice. I'm his brother, and while it means I need to look out for him I haven't a clue how to do it."
"He was...scared that you would tell the whole group who would then jump him and proceed to tear him apart. He was rather hysterical. Weeping even. As for the boon...Once this is over, and the Strife Lord's gone...He'll tell her then." The cleric looked concernedly at the troubled elf.
Ashathel sighed, then shook his head. "The fool... I know more than well what would have happened if I told the group. I never intended to get him into trouble; I just wanted to make sure he realized what he did was terrible, and get him to apologize to Kethra."
"Somewhat the same idea I had. However...I believe that now is not the best time. With trust in the party as low as it is at the minute after the Strife Lord's attack? At least he should wait till things are better perhaps." Amelios sighed and turned away from Asathael, pacing a little.
"I see your point," Ashathel nodded. "But the fact of the matter is, if we don't deal with these trust issues now, we will fail when we do reach the Prince. If you can't feel confident that the person behind you isn't going to stab you in the back, you can't fight properly."
"Faralon is going to stab the group in the back? I don't mind that we try to make sure everyone is trustworthy but...do you honestly think he would?"
"I don't think so, no," Ashathel said, turning to leave. Before he left, however, he added "But not everyone here is my brother."
"I think you will be surprised however...I believe in all of us." The cleric watches the Elf and then sighs sadly.

Posted by: Aldur Wed Nov 30, 2005 8:43 pm
After arriving at the castle Amelios seems to be his old self again, laughing and joking away as he ate. He waited till much later to bathe however, wanting it entirely to himself. He sighed as he sank into the water, the warmth soothing his wounds and giving him time to think. As he listened to the rippling water and the droplets falling, the cleric was deeply troubled.
That fiend...he...and yet why do his words have a ring of truth to them? He is correct...and yet why do I feel that he is yet wrong? Such thoughts...I have never seen things in such a way.
He sighed, submerging a little more into the water, ignoring his worries for even just a little while. He mulled over things for awhile, and then decided to leave the baths, pausing a moment or two to make sure the one aspect of his body that he treasured so much would look it's best. His hair. After getting rid of all the grime and things in it the cleric departed to the barracks and decides to not disturb his companion, merely taking out his comb and spending the next hour or so making his hair look nice and mulling over the conflicting ways of life he was offered.

Posted by: Rusty Wed Nov 30, 2005 10:56 pm
((Placeholders, because trends are cool.))

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Wed Nov 30, 2005 10:58 pm
The next day, the group sets out for Iom Shrine... The journey is tense, the group approaching the death site of an evil god, a place stained with the blood of many, and the birthplace of the plan to invade Guardiana and Cypress 3 years ago...
Suddenly, something shatters the odd silence.
Cedric, Faralon and Amelios hear the creaking of wagon wheels, guttural cursing and an occasional scream from up ahead.
Cedric summons and mounts his mighty steed.
*Faralon speaks to the rest of the group.* Faralon: "Do you hear that?"
Amelios looks up from his grooming, hearing the noises. "Indeed...Carts...and screams!? I believe we may need to investigate this! Someone! Alert the ladies!"
Zook frowns. "Hear what?"
Kyoji vanishes from sight. "I'll scout ahead," his voice echoes.
"There appears to be sounds of danger up ahead. Cart wheels...cursing and some screams. This is not right! I would prepare for action."
Kethra's ears twitch and she looks forward. "Yes, I hear it too. Everyone, be prepared just in case..."
Damas is casting Mage Armor on himself and Ashathel. Amelios cast Ray of Hope on Kethra and Bull's Strength on Cedric. Faralon is casting Resistance on Van and...Fine. Ryhir. Cedric casts Protection from Evil on Ryhir.
"There is a caravan up ahead, but it appears to belong to the Cult. They've got a string of prisoners in shackles, marching them along. The screams are from the prisoners being lashed... It appears they can't move much further," Kyoji reports, still invisible.
"What are the slavers numbers? Do they have an abundance of any one type of warrior?" Amelios frowned, knowing they'd need to help these people. Well...everyone would insist on it.
"Did you get an idea of how heavily armored they were? We can't rush in unprepared, but neither can we do nothing," Zook asks.
"Lashed?" Damas' expression becomes quite grimmed. "How cruel... We have to help them."
Acacia remains silent, but edges closer to Jokulligr. Maybe, just maybe, there were some people alive from her caravan? It would be unlikely, but not impossible.
*Faralon looks to the mages.* Faralon: "While we have the opportunity, we should cast spells to aid our allies."
"The guards are armored and armed, but there are only twelve. I saw only one magic user, and I am confident I can dispose of him swiftly," Kyoji replies
Faralon: "Could you tell if the guards were undead?" *I'm getting REALLY sick of the undead...*
Damas nods. "I agree Faralon. Is anyone in need of some extra protection? Even my power is limited, so I am sadly going to have to cast my spells on those that need it the most."
"Very well then...It seems like we could pull this off. And the bard raises a good point." Amelios moves over to Kethra, casting a spell on her. ((Ray of hope. +2 to attacks, saves and checks.))
"There are no undead in the caravan."
Faralon: "All right, so then we are dealing with intelligent enemies this time."
Kethra looks at Amelios curiously. "I don't know what you did, but thank you Amelios."
"No problem." The cleric remains silent, pondering a few things, looking at Cedric oddly.
Begining the attack, Kyoji appears and slays the one mage guarding the caravan. As soon as this is done, the rest of the group charges into the enemy forces, catching them completely by surprise. The caravan guards are no match for the spell-guarded, veteran warriors, and are soon slain.
The caravan itself consists of two carts filled with some supplies, and a few poor quality weapons. The prisoners, there are five of them left, two lay dead from starvation and torture, look at their saviors with relief in their eyes, cheering as the last of the guards bites the dust.

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Wed Nov 30, 2005 10:59 pm
The battle was win without Zook firing a single shot. While the gnome bore no love of combat, he could not but feel that this was strangely anticlimactic.

Posted by: Dark Maiden Thu Dec 01, 2005 12:05 am
Damas watches solemnly as Cedric moves past him, but does not follow. Knowing better than to bother someone who obviously wants to be alone, he turns and walks down the hall towards the bathhouse. Seeing that no one else seems to be around, he removes his clothes and crawls into the water, letting out a heavy sigh as he does so. He submerges himself on purpose the only part of him that is visible is from the middle of his chest, up. "This feels so good," he says with a smile. "So much better than bathing in those cold lakes..."
After sitting there for a few minutes, his thoughts return to his encounter with Cedric. The paladin seemed troubled, and yet he insisted on asking his questions rather than waiting. "He has taken this the hardest out of all of us, and yet I bothered him with my questions. I am such an insensitive idiot!" Damas slams his fist into a nearby wall, gritting his teeth but refusing to cry out in pain. "I really need to start thinking before I do stupid shit like that," he mutters in his native tongue. When he pulls his hand back, he notices a large red welt and a little bit of blood. "That was REALLY smart Damas!" he snaps at himself, sarcastically. "Damn it..."
Another half hour passes before the sorcerer decides he's finished with his bath. Crawling out of the water, he changes into his clean robes and takes his other outfit elsewhere to wash it. Once he is through, he walks into the male's barracks and his eyes settle on Cedric for a moment. *I need to apologize later... For now, I think I should leave him alone though...* Damas takes a seat on his bed and removes a brush from his backpack, then spends a little while making sure it is de tangled and looks nice. After this he turns to his companion who is seated on his pillow. "Have you been waiting long Li?"
Li looks at Damas affectionately, her whiskers twitching. "I thought you would never come back master," she says sadly. "You've been ignoring me lately."
"Ignoring you?" Damas thinks on it for a moment, then realizes he has indeed spent much of that time with the group or with Isyndel in general. "Oh, I see. You're jealous of the attention I am giving the others. Or is it Isyndel in particular that bothers you?"
"You want me to be honest?" Li watches him intently. "I don't like her one bit. She's self centered, and believes she is above us. Please come to your senses master, before she breaks your heart just like Valkana did."
"What business is that of your's?" Damas asks sourly. "I don't recall asking for you to tell me how to live my life."
"Master, I thought we were friends!" Li squeaks sadly.
"Li..." Damas picks up the rat and kisses her on the side of her furry little face. "I'm sorry, really. Can you forgive me?"
"I suppose I can forgive you just this once master," Li replies teasingly. "You owe me treats later, though."
"I'll be sure to buy you some fruit when we find civilization again." Damas looks towards the door for a moment, and then back to Li. "I need some fresh air to clear my head. Would you like to come?"
"No thank you master." Li hops out of his hand and curls up on his pillow. "I'll keep this warm for you."
Damas smiles and stands up, moving towards the door with the smooth, fluid, and graceful movements inherit to his kind. He is sure not to disturb either Cedric or Amelios when he leaves.
((Rose, Rusty, and myself are working on a group conversation. This bit takes place before that
Since Damas has a few forms of communication, here is what it all means...
Green - He is speaking in his native tongue, Elven
Gray - He's speaking in Draconic [I doubt it'll ever come up]
Black - He's speaking with his familiar and no one else can understand
And of course these * * in italics is thought
Why do I go to all this trouble? Maybe it actually helps me keep track...))

Posted by: Wandering Dezorian Thu Dec 01, 2005 12:24 am
Brand looks over the fallen enemies expressionlessly. "Check the slavers to see if they had papers. If we knew where they were going, or where they came from, that might bring us a step closer to finding your prince." Then he shades his eyes against the sun's glare. "I'm going to check and make sure this wasn't bait. Shailtor knew where we were headed. Care to join in, Merkass? Kyoji?" he asks as he turns to launch himself into the air once more.

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Thu Dec 01, 2005 12:45 am
Meanwhile, back at the present time... Kyoji finds the key to the prisoner's shackles in short order and moves from prisoner to prisoner, unlocking their bonds. The chains fall to the ground with a loud crash of metal, the prisoners rubbing their wrists with smiles on their faces.
*Faralon opens his eyes, doing a double take. Truly, it was them.* Faralon: "L...Lady Yeesha! These are allies of yours, are they not? They're Luke and Randolf - both of which fought with Nick!"
"By the Light, you're right! I can barely recognize them!" Yeesha gasps. "Randolf... You're all skin and bones... By the gods, Luke, what happened to your arms??"
"The cultists decided I was better off with them broken..." Luke says sadly, looking at his twisted limbs.
"What happened?" Yeesha asks.
"We were part of the Prince's expedition..." Randolf says. "I'm sorry, can we have some food and water first? It hurts to talk..."
Amelios raises his eyebrows in surprise and says nothing, looking at the injuries of the two members of the Shining force, he wonders what could do that to them. Amelios can tell that Randolf and Luke have been badly tortured and malnourished, they will need several days to recover.
"Yes, of course, of course... Someone fetch some rations and waterskins!" Yeesha calls out. Rhyir rushes off to procure such. *Faralon also leaves momentarily to gather rations.*
Kethra steps forward and looks both Randolf and Luke over. Though only faintly, she remembers the monk. *How could this happen? They both look...awful... I don't even want to think about what they went through...*
Amelios, after diagnosing their condition speaks out to everyone present. "They will require several days of recovery. Malnourishment and torture is not a good combination."
"Torture?" Kethra murmurs, her eyes widening. *Whoever did this is just...sick!*
Ryhir and Faralon return at this juncture with food and water.
Damas watches solemnly, his grip tightening on his staff. *Whoever did this needs to pay... This is just beyond cruel...*
Amelios walks up to the wounded warriors, and uses his staff to heal them up and repair Luke's broken arms.
"That should take of immediate pain. And your arms should work better now Sir Luke. Still, you'll need several days to recover."
"Thank you... Ah... it feels better to have some blood in my arms again..." Luke says as he rubs his arms.
: *Faralon gives them an equal share of the rations he took.* Faralon: "How did all of this happen? Were you caught off guard?" *If even the great Shining Force is in trouble...*
"We followed the trail to the ruins of Iom's Shrine, but were ambushed along the way by a large force of these... cultists... We would've won, but they had support from an undead force wielding Ancient weaponry," Randolf relates.
*Faralon looks over at Yeesha, then turns his glance to Randolf.* Faralon: "Was one of them, by any chance, named The Storm?"
Zook's face darkens at the mention of the Drowned Eye.
Randolf snorts, his hooves pawing the ground. "Didn't really stop to ask them their names..."
Faralon: "Hm...In that case, could you possibly describe them?"
Damas frowns at the mention of undead, for their 'ancient weaponry' had been the cause for his short trip to the afterlife. *I can't think about that now...* He sighs.
Amelios looked at the two, and took a deep breath, needing to ask a question that no one wanted to answer. "Who else...was with you?"
"During the fight we were knocked out... Yeesha, I'm sorry, they killed Chester and Graham!" Luke says, shaking his head. "Perhaps others too... I don't know. The last thing I recall was Dean rallying the troops for an organized retreat, falling back into the woods."
"So... Dean and Natasha returned to help Nick after all... I thought they declined his request..." Yeesha muses.
"All of these terrible things happening," Kethra murmurs. "It...makes my blood boil..." She then sighs and takes a deep breath.
"They did at first, but Mayfair pleaded with them... Pity she did..." Randolf says.
Cedric suggests returning to the castle, but Randolf shakes his head.
"No! Every second we delay means another one of our companions..." Randolf trails off.
"What do you mean?" Amelios asks
"We'll return to the castle with the prisoners then journey to our enemies."
"We overheard a few things from our captors," Luke says. "They captured a few more of us... They're turning them into undead."
"You would just be a burden in your current state and we cannot allow you to return alone."
" Cedric, why not send out wagon back, with Rhizor and the prisoners?" Ryhir asks.
"The longer we wait, the more chance you're going to have to put down our friends..." Randolf states.
"That way we can press on," Kyoji says, agreeing with Ryhir.
"Foul undead...I hate them so..."Faralon mutters
"Very well." Cedric nods, "Send Gabriel and Elias along as well."
"You're not the only one who hates the undead," Damas says.

Posted by: Kaihaku Thu Dec 01, 2005 1:02 am
"Fine." Cedric states, "Lady Yeesha you will return with them... Be cautious, I suspect that our enemy for some perverse reason is determined to gather the forces of light and turn them to darkness." He frowns, "Elias, Gabriel, travel with them as well. I don't like the idea of Lady Yeesha traveling without healthy fighters."
[Diplomacy: 8 + 15 = 23]
The Paladin looks back to the arch-wizardess, "If we fail, you must be prepared... But whatever happens, do not allow them to capture you..." Sorrow crosses Cedric's face, "You must not become a slave to them, no matter the cost. Be on your way and be safe."
Turning back to the others, Cedric looks drained and weary, "We must press on..." He sighs, "Faralon, what do you think of using this caravan to approach the enemy undetected?"

Posted by: Rusty Thu Dec 01, 2005 1:38 am
*Before Yeesha heads off, Faralon thinks to retrieve the scroll that summons Derrik. He does not use it, however.* === Faralon: "I was thinking the very same plan, Cedric. Though it might be difficult to pull it off with such a large group." Cedric frowns, "There were 16 in the caravan, correct?"
: "I think that was right. If so..."
*Faralon counts the remaining group.*
: "If we're able to disguise ourselves, or turn ourselves invisible...maybe. We number seventeen. Kyoji can turn invisible, can he not? Then we just need to do that for the rest of the group, unless anyone here is particularly skilled in disguises. But then...If we're invisible, I suppose taking the caravan might prove useless."

Posted by: Kaihaku Thu Dec 01, 2005 2:13 am
Cedric nods, "Very well... At the least we can use the caravan to approach nearer to our enemy unchallenged even if we cannot slip pass them. Kyoji can also hide in one of the supply wagons..." The Paladin looks over the group, "Very well, let us be on our way... I may be giving orders swiftly so I will assign code names for the squads for now. Once this mission is over, you may consider new ones."
"Kyoji, for now your squad will be refered to as Wyvern. Ryhir's will be known as Kirin, until you decide on another name. Ashathel will lead Gryphon. Faralon, I'm certain you can think of something more fitting but for now Tanooki... I see no need to name the strike or ranged units at this tim..."
"I'm going with you," Yeesha says simply.
Cedric pauses for a moment without looking at her, "Very well, that is your decision... Let us be on our way."

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Thu Dec 01, 2005 2:17 am
Zook frowns. "I'm not leaving ADAM behind. I will return."

Posted by: Cyrus Thu Dec 01, 2005 3:16 am
[Just a few small things. Castor trades his old +1 axe for a Large breastplate, and he asks one of the clerics for an uncursing, being as there's no reason he shouldn't have given the sheer time span that's occured.]

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Thu Dec 01, 2005 3:48 am
The groups part ways, the one heading back to the castle, the other pressing on. Van and the others are going to wear the clothes of the dead guards while Cedric, Castor, and a few are prisoners. You travel for a few hours. It's now dusk, and you hear moaning in the distance. As you crest a hill, you see a group of 12 humanoids shambling forward.
They wear ragged clothing, and look similar to the 'undamaged' zombies you fought earlier.
Cedric does not detect any evil.
"Ignore them unless they assault us..." Cedric whispers, "Amelios...their master's are of greater importance..."
The figures shamble in front of the wagons and towards you, hands outreached. The horses stop as the humanoids block the path, drawing close to the horses and the drivers of the wagons. The figures move past the horses and reach for you, getting as close as they can to the cart's seat, and therefore the drivers. Ryhir and Faralon.
Ryhir knocks some arms away. "Quit that, we need to get back."
Each of them grab a handful of your clothes, their unintelligible moans becoming louder.
"Move, let them take the reins..." Cedric whispers, bracing himself to call upon the Goddess.
Faralon: "Wh...what? Are you mad?! Wh...what? What are they doing?!"
"They aren't attacking the horses... Move..." Cedric whispers in reply, "We can handle them if they attempt something..."
RYhir says loudly. "I said quit it! Let us through!" *knocks away some more arms*
Faralon: "I'll try moving, but they need to get their hands off of me!" *Faralon tries the same.*
The zombies continue to try and touch the two drivers, tugging on their clothing and the like.
Ryhir notices several strange things. The 'zombies' seem to not be as pale as normal undead, and their eyes, while clouded over, don't seem to be decomposing. Also, they don't smell as bad as most undead do. Faralon thinks these are definately zombies that want to eat his brains.
Ryhir whispers to Faralon and Cedric, "I'm not sure these are truely undead.... Cedric, you sensed no evil earlier. Can you or the clerics or mages detremine if they live yet, or if there is magic apon them? At the very least, I believe they mean us no harm..."
Faralon: "How can you be so sure? They look like zombies to me..."
Cedric frowns, "I do not know... Perhaps, but for now I think you should move out of their way. We can examine their nature later."
"They're alive," Castor says, after taking a deep breath. "They won't rip off your heads and eat them."
"Faralon, detect magic?" Cedric queries.
Faralon: "Alive? Well I wonder what is wrong with them..." *Faralon rubs the back of his head.* Faralon: "You know, funny thing...I don't have that spell... They must be under some sort of spell. It's really the only logical explanation."
"Bah! Shows how much you know!" a voice crows from in front of the cart. A very familiar and distinctive voice.
Cedric whispers a curse under his breath, "If...they would have listened..."
Six red eyes burn in the darkness.
The form of Shailtor steps forward.
"Given any though to my generous offer yet?"
Cedric stands tall and steps out as well, drawing his hammer.
Castor leaves the caravan, scowling as his draws his Atlas Axe.
"No? Ah well, give it time..." Shailtor chuckles. "I was hoping for a show... but you showed caution and surprised me... I had a few villagers drugged and set to this path. I was hoping you'd jump to conclusions... I'm still waiting to be amused... You're not far from the shrine. I'll have some fun watching you battle the guards, I suppose. Nice touch with the disguise. It might've worked had someone not ratted you out."
*Faralon clenches his fist. So he returns...* ((Yes. You can.))
Shailtor turns his back. "I was hoping for a spot of fun... Ah well. Damnable duties call me again... I will see you all at a later date."
Cedric smiles coldly as he slowly walks forward, "Taken a special interest in us, then? You do have many other enemies but you continue to grace us with your visits... I'd be honored if not disgusted."
Faralon: "Don't give in to his mind games...There's no proof yet that there is a traitor." ((Yes. ))
"Heheheh... I've seen your thoughts, paladin... Disgust indeed..." Then Shailtor vanishes.
As the Strife Lord vanishes, Cedric turns to the others, "Put the so called zombies in the wagons... We cannot leave them here."
((100 XP to everyone in the party for avoiding a trap.))

Posted by: FreedomJu Thu Dec 01, 2005 4:21 am
Van has 16 INIT and is frozen for 4 rounds.

Posted by: Kaihaku Thu Dec 01, 2005 4:26 am
An hour after you encountered Shailtor... Kyoji holds up a hand, then remembers he's invisible and says, "Halt. Can you hear that?" "No." Cedric whispers, holding up a hand, "What is it?" "It sounds... Like... Like a church hymn. But the lyrics are all wrong." Kyoji says with a frown.
Faralon: "Another bard?" *Faralon asks.*
"No, Faralon. A Chaplin...."
Cedric summons his steed and mounts it, "The Sound?"
"Likely"
"Assemble into your squads. Prepare for battle. Faralon, does anyone have silence prepared? We will surely need it." Cedric orders.
Faralon: "I do. And this may also help..." Faralon takes out his lute.
"Looks like Shailtor doesn't take kindly to refused offers..." Castor says, preparing for battle.
Ryhir gathers Acacia and Jock Strap to himself.
The squads assemble and the group progresses towards the Sound, bringing the wagons with them.
Faralon wonder, "Should I cast it upon someone?"
"I am the SOUND!" a voice booms as a mummified figure clad in plate armor moves forward, appearing from thin air within 200' of the group.
"Faralon, can we raise mental and spiritual defenses?" Cedric asks.
"I have come to sign your funeral dirge!" The Sound bellows.
Faralon mummers "Maybe we're a bit late for that, Cedric...But I will do what I can."
Cedric laughs, "So, you are the one the Storm was so impressed that I spoke more than?"
"Permission to advance?" Ryhir asks with a look to Cedric
"Yes! I am a preacher still! Only now I preach the truth and not the false lies of the gods!" the Sound replies.
Ryhir merely draws his weapons.
"You claim the words of Shailtor are true?" Cedric asks scoffingly, "You are indeed fallen... At least the Storm retained his mind."
"Shailtor may not speak the truth... For the truth is, there is no truth! This world, your world... it's a lie!" the Sound replies, shouting."But come now, we can talk during your funeral... I can even give you your eulogy..."
[Diplomacy 18 + 15 = 33]
"Repent. It is not too late for you. You may feel that the Gods abandoned you but it was not their indent." Cedric replies from atop his mount, "Do not continue on this evil path."
As others are terrified by the frightful gaze of the horrible being, Cedric meets it cooly. Where a normal man would be overcome with fear he radiates confidence, "Turn from this path or perish." Cedric shakes his head, "But you cannot, can you? We will free you this night."
Cedric points his hammer turns the fiend and stirs his steed on, "Move as near as you can but do not attack alone. Close to melee!" His mighty steed breaks into a trot, leading the advance but not outpacing the others by much, "Wyvern, move around him into a flanking position!"
[Detect Evil]
Cedric scans the area as he advances, looking for hidden enemies, "Merkass, look for traps!" Keeping his eyes on the Sound, Cedric whispered a prayer to the Goddess for protection.
[Divine Shield]
[Moved Forward 120 ft]

Posted by: Kyosokun Thu Dec 01, 2005 4:37 am
Ryhir merely looks to Acacia and Jock Strap and say "Stay close, and follow my lead unless I say otherwise." He then proceeds to charge forward, running towards The Sound fleetly. ((Saves made, Init 8! Woot! Running forward 160', keeping a little distance from the Monk in case of spells.))

Posted by: Rusty Thu Dec 01, 2005 4:39 am
((WILL save: natural 13 + 3 (WILL) + 4 (Cedric's aura of bravery or whatever) = 20. Pass! Initiative: natural 14 + 4 = 18.)) *Faralon begins to strum the strings on his lute as he asks his minotaur ally a question.* ((Diplomacy...natural 3 + 12 = 15.))
: "Castor. If you would not mind, I would like to cast a spell of Silence upon you once you're able to attack The Sound. Then he won't be able to use his 'Sound' powers. Is that okay?"
The minotaur nods, keeping his eye on the Sound at all times.
((Inspire Courage. +2 to all attack and damage rolls, and - in case any future saves against fear apply, you get I think a +2 to those and charm effects, as well. Also, move me up as far as I can go. I would think 30'?))
*Faralon calls out to group around him, mostly towards the spellcasters, but melee fighters can hear him as well.*
((Bardic knowledge...natural 19 + 7 = 26. Yay!))
: "Be careful! The Sound is no mere mummy! He is a mummy lord! The very sight of one can be fearsome enough to scare the strongest of warriors away, and he has very powerful supernatural diseases! He should be vulnerable to fire, so if you have that available in any way - use it!!!"

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Thu Dec 01, 2005 5:14 am
Amelios is suddenly struck by an invisible fire, burning his side badly. ((Hit. 33 damage.)) The Sound casts Silence on Faralon, but the bard is able to shake off the spell's effect. The Sound growls at this and pulls off a bit of cloth covering part of his armor, exposing a rune drawn there. The rune causes horrible pain to anyone looking at it.
((Move action: Uncovering Symbol of Pain. Fort save: DC20 or take -4 to all ability checks, skill checks and attack rolls for an hour. This ability affects anyone with 60' of the symbol and lasts for an hour afterward.))
The invisible Kyoji moves forward, but is wracked with pain.
((16. Failed save. ))

Posted by: Kaihaku Thu Dec 01, 2005 5:46 am
((We fear not pain...)) [Fort Save 20 + 11 = 31] [Power Surge +8 STR / 2 Rounds] [Concentration 3 + 17 = 20] ((...nor disease...))
As spiritual energy forms around him, the eyes of the Kensai narrow meeting those of the Sound, "Enough of your perversion!!! You will not corrupt us as you have been corrupted!!!" Cedric spurs on his mighty steed, "Fortune Cookie, HO!!!!" The valiant steed breaks into a gallop towards the corrupted chaplain.
[Stay in Saddle DC 5]
[Ride 6 + 8 = 14]
((...nor the touch of the wicked...))
Cedric tightens his hands around the mighty hammer he bears and brings it to bear against the perversion of what was once a man with the full force of his mount's charge behind it.
[Smite Evil +5 / +5]
[Power Attack -5]
[Attack Roll: 16 + 13 + 2 + 2 + 5 - 5 = 33]
[Damage Roll: 6 + 15 + 5 + 2 + 10 = 38]
[Diplomacy 4 + 15 = 19]
((...nor the words of their mouth...))
"Surrender that putrid form and return to the land of the dead!" Cedric declares in a mighty voice, "Cast aside those that enslave you! Free yourself so that you might rest!"

Posted by: Rusty Thu Dec 01, 2005 5:59 am
((Save vs. Will (17) or be paralyzed for 4 rounds, people. People already paralyzed: Acacia, Amelios (Marine rolled), Ashathel, Van. Spellcraft check to recognize Silence...10 + 9 = 19. Pass!)) : "Really, I would think someone named 'The Sound' would be smart enough to not foolishly waste his time trying to cast Silence on myself, a bard...As if I would be so easily subjected to such a spell! I guess some parts of your brain slipped out when you were reanimated..."
*Faralon then casts Silence on Castor, abandoning his song.*
((Its effects are still in effect for 5 rounds. Also, step close towards the group, if possible.))

Posted by: Kyosokun Thu Dec 01, 2005 6:18 am
Ryhir continues his forward rush, and moves next to the Sound, grasps his Icy Scimitar in two hands, and hacks down feriously, managing to break through The Sound's defenses and deal a good blow to him. ((Flanking with cedric. Attack: 1d20(15) + 5bab + 5weapon + 3str + 1wf + 2song + 2flank = 33. HIT!
Damage: 1d6(5)weapon + 2d6(2+4)cold + 4str + 5weapon + 2song = 22))

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Thu Dec 01, 2005 6:52 am
As Ryhir and Cedric close to melee, sonic vibrations wrack them. Kyoji appears then, and his sword strike is deflected by the mummy's armor, he too takes damage from the sound of the Sound. ((7 sonic damage to anyone within 10' of the Sound. This ability will be on continously until cancelled by a Silence spell. Castor is not within range yet.))

Posted by: GE Silver Dragon Thu Dec 01, 2005 7:20 am
((Getting technical stuff outta the way... 24 on the check against Despair - Passed 18 on the check against Rune of Pain - Failed 4 Init As mentioned during the RP session, Jokulligr's action during the first turn was to run 160' towards The Sound, in accordance to Ryhir's orders. Making 2nd turn now))
Jokulligr follows Ryhir towards their undead foe, swiftly closing the distance between them. However, upon sight of the Rune as he nears, the dragonman stumbles a bit in his charge, feeling a jolt of pain surge through him but managing to continue forward through it, until at last coming to a stop just in front of The Sound. Upon stopping, he's again struck by pain, this time from the vibrations seeming to fill the air around The Sound. Through sheer strength of discipline, Jokulligr fights through it and inhales deeply before exhaling a blast of frost directly at the mummy.
((Breath attack: Cone of Cold - Damage: 33; DC 13 Reflex to halve the damage))

Posted by: Dark Maiden Thu Dec 01, 2005 3:28 pm
Saves vs. Fear Kethra: 1d20 + 10 - 1 rolled - 11 total. Failed Damas: 1d20 + 7 - 11 rolled - 18 total. Passed Saves vs. Symbol Kethra: 1d20 + 7 - 13 rolled - 20 total. Passed
Damas: 1d20 + - 17 rolled - 22 total. Passed
Initiative
Kethra: 1d20 + 8 - 7 rolled - 15 total
Damas: 1d20 + 4 - 9 rolled - 13 total

Posted by: Wandering Dezorian Thu Dec 01, 2005 4:35 pm
Save vs. fear: 1 + 4(will save) + 4 (cedric) = 9 (failed) Save vs. pain: 12 + 8(fort save) = 20 (passed) Brand pauses for a moment, indicision written clearly on his face.

Posted by: Dark Maiden Thu Dec 01, 2005 9:21 pm
((You moved through 2 rounds without me? I insist on taking my actions for both rounds )) Kethra moves forward but barely makes it a few steps before she catches sight of the Sound. Her limbs freeze up, and she cannot seem to will them to move. Fear has paralyzed the young monk.
((She will remain as such for 4 rounds...))
-----
1st Round
Damas' eyes fall upon the Sound, but the sorcerer is able to overcome the fear that threatened to render him paralyzed. Watching as the fighters close into melee, he decides it is best to do this now. Weaving symbols in the air with his fingers and speaking ancient words, he pulls a component from his pouch. After speaking a final word of power, a blue bead forms at the tip of his finger. With his commands it speeds towards the storm and explodes into a wall of ice shards and frigid wind. He notices that the few shards which actually hit the Sound do nothing and curses under his breath. "Damn. Faralon, I think he has an artifact protecting him from magic..."
((Freeze 2 cast
6d6 - 1 1 5 2 2 5 rolled - No damage after save and resistance
AIM, I feckING HATE YOU))
2nd Round
Watching as Amelios is hit from seemingly nowhere; the young sorcerer begins to worry. He suggests to the mages that they take cover and proceeds to use the wagon for that purpose. After this, he casts a spell on himself.
((Mage Armor cast
+4 AC for 6 hours
He's also taking full cover and can't be attacked))

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Thu Dec 01, 2005 9:48 pm
((I forgot about Sanctuary, which the Sound cast on himself prior to this battle. Ryhir fails the save and does not attack.)) Aurik heals Amelios for 22 points of damage and casts Sanctuary on him. Merkass tries to find the sniper again, but fails.
Damas casts Freeze 2, but the Sound dodges most of it, and the few ice shards that hit him seem insufficient to do any damage. The Sound also dodges most of Jokulligr's icy breath, the blast that hits seeming to do less damage than it should.
Aurik is suddenly burned very badly by an invisible blast of energy.
((Hit. 40 damage.))
The Sound shouts words of power just before Castor closes in with his Silence, completing the spell and slamming it into Jokulligr. However, the powers of Light look over the monk and the dragonman manages to stand his ground even as negative energy ripples through his body.
((Slay Living cast. Touch Attack hit. Save passed. 18 damage to Jokulligr.))
Next turn!
Kyoji misses.

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Thu Dec 01, 2005 10:18 pm
Castor barrels forward, his normally thunderous hooves making no sound. Growling voicelessly he raises Atlas over his head, the weapon's double blade growing brilliant with searing heat until it emits a single spark from the spike at its tip. The spark flies up in a steep arc and falls some 15' away from the Sound.
Dozens of fireballs pelt the area immediately afterwards, extending out to include the Sound but not any of Castor's allies in melee.
((49 base fire damage on the Sound from invoking Blaze 3))

Posted by: Rusty Thu Dec 01, 2005 10:51 pm
((Faralon will wait/delay for Aurik's action, then turn him invisible.)) ((Checks passed on recognizing the following: ring of minor cold resistance, recognizing Sanctuary as in effect, recognizing some sort of fire protection - mostly likely a spell - as in effect.))
*Faralon calls out to the group.*
: "Wait! He seems have something protecting him from cold energy...And he has a spell warding off attackers called 'Sanctuary' in effect! Furthermore, I don't think fire is doing as much damage as it should, so he probably has some form of protection against that, as well! Mages, try to use spells that contain neither of those energies!"
*Faralon heads over to Aurik after seeing him take a powerful wound, yet still cast offensive magic on The Sound.*
: "Be careful, Aurik! Here, take yourself to safety!"
*Faralon casts Invisibility on Aurik.*

Posted by: Knight_019 Thu Dec 01, 2005 10:55 pm
((Merkass still can't see Aurik heals himself with his round 2 action. 22 hp healed. My sig is updated, btw. New action: Searing light for 16. 17 + 5 + 2 - 2 = 22 ranged touch. Hit. Consider this a placeholder))

Posted by: Kaihaku Thu Dec 01, 2005 11:01 pm
[Ride: 13 + 8 = 21] (Stay in saddle DC5) [Ride: 17 + 8 = 25] (Attack with warhorse DC10) Fortune Cookie lashes out with his mighty hooves but they merely cling off the armor of the fell being before him. [Hooves 1: 17 + 6 + 2 = 25] [Hooves 2: 17 + 6 + 2 = 25]
Cedric on the other hand, lashes out with his hammer silently and lands another blow on what had once been a man. Swinging his weapon around again, he manages to land a second blow as well.
[Attack 1: 17 + 17 + 2 = 34]
[Damage: 10 + 14 + 2 = 26]
[Attack 2: 19 + 12 + 2 = 33]
[Damage: 1 + 14 + 2 = 17]

Posted by: Wandering Dezorian Thu Dec 01, 2005 11:13 pm
Brand continues to stand still, eyes squeezed tight as the birdman fights against silent visions of dispair and horror.

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Thu Dec 01, 2005 11:34 pm
Faralon is struck to the ground, near death, as one of the invisible bolts strikes him. Merkass makes some progress finding the sniper, as Cedric's hammer slams into the mummy, causing him to open his mouth in what would've been a bellow of pain, if not for the silence. The fight continues in an eerie fashion, without sound...
The Sound lashes out at Kyoji and Ryhir, catching each one with a slam of its mighty fists.
((15 damage to Kyoji, 14 damage to Ryhir. Both saved, no mummy rot.))
Kyoji misses.

Posted by: Dark Maiden Thu Dec 01, 2005 11:47 pm
((Kethra still cannot act)) "I'm pretty well useless then, unless..." Damas closes his eyes and chants in an ancient language, weaving arcane symbols in the air with his fingers. What looks to be a glowing hand materializes beside the sorcerer, and he feels slightly drained.
((Spectral Hand cast
Damas loses 4 hit points
Note that until he dispels the hand or it is destroyed, the "damage" can't be healed))
((Is this still round 3, or round 4?))

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Thu Dec 01, 2005 11:48 pm
With a feral roar that falls on deaf ears Castor swings the legendary axe, grimly satisfied at the bite it makes before backpedaling in preparation of a charge attack. ((Attack roll 33, damage 38 axe 3 fire. Move 15' back, to be 25' away from the Sound.))

Posted by: Kaihaku Thu Dec 01, 2005 11:49 pm
Cedric shakes his head and moves his mouth as if speak, then reaches out with his hand and rests it gently on the fallen chaplain. Positive energy floods from the hand and into the corruption of life. [Touch Attack: 18 + 15 + 2 = 35] [Lay on Hands | -25 HP | The Sound]

Posted by: Kyosokun Fri Dec 02, 2005 12:46 am
Ryhir, unable to attack, casts his eyes about, hopefully to catch an idea of the sniper's whereabouts. he then gets slammed by the Sound, and stumbles back, out of combat with the monster. Another bolt flies by, and Ryhir manages to narrow the location of the sniper down to 2 far away locations: A grassy knoll, and a rock pile.
Ryhir start to think apon a course of action...

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Fri Dec 02, 2005 1:30 am
The Sound looks like he would be about to speak, but no words can be heard as he draws what looks like the hilt of a sword from his belt. Instantly a shimmering blade of pure force springs from the device and the Sound swipes at Cedric with his weapon.
((Hit. 36 damage to Cedric.))
Amelios is struck down by another invisible blast, the kyantol crumpling yet again.
((Hit. 49 damage to Amelios. Amelios dies.))
Kyoji attacks and misses.

Posted by: White Rose Fri Dec 02, 2005 1:40 am
Acacia's faculties finally returned to her after an uncontrolable paralyzing fear. Time and time again these people had violated her, both in body and mind. To realize that she could be so easily swayed and bent hindered her confidence. Letting her eyes dart across the battlefield, she realizes that both Ryhir and Jokulligr had moved forward. While there only appeared to be one enemy on the field, she had failed them in letting them approach with one man less than they should. Preparing herself, she ran towards the raging battle.
(Run 60'. Right? Correct me in chat if I mess anything up. ^_^)

Posted by: FreedomJu Fri Dec 02, 2005 1:41 am
Van runs 120' towards the Sound.

Posted by: Kaihaku Fri Dec 02, 2005 2:02 am
[5 ft step to flanking position] [Ride 2 + 8 = 10] Guide with Knees DC 5 Fortune Cookie steps to behind the corrupted chaplin putting the Paladin in a better position to strike. Lifting his hammer, he strikes mightily at the Sound. [Attack 1: 20 + 17 + 2 + 2 = 41]
[Damage: 8 + 14 + 2 = 24]
[Attack 2: 16 + 12 + 2 + 2 = 32]
[Damage: 7 + 14 + 2 = 23]

Posted by: Dark Maiden Fri Dec 02, 2005 2:37 am
Kethra finally snaps out of it and charges towards the Sound. She aims a punch at him, but she fails to connect with it. ((1d20 + 6 + 2 (charge) - 3 rolled - 11 total. MISS! F*CK you, AIM!!!)) ----- Last Round
*I can't believe I'm hiding here while the others are falling... There has to be something I can do... Mitula, I know I haven't exactly spoken to you in a while, but please give me the strength and courage I need...* Damas nods and makes his way out from behind the cart, moving towards the Sound at a hurried pace.
((Double move 60'))
This Round
Finally closing the distance enough to cast, Damas weaves arcane symbols in the air and speaks in the ancient tongue. Three blue missiles made of pure energy fly towards the sound and slam into him, though they don't do a whole lot of damage.
((Move 30'
Magic Missile cast
3d4 + 3 - 2 2 1 rolled - 8 total
I REALLY hate you AIM...))

Posted by: Kyosokun Fri Dec 02, 2005 2:46 am
Ryhir shouts back towards the carts, "Someone, have Yeesha rain destruction apon The Grassy Knoll and Rock Pile far out to the west. The Sniper has to be in one of those places!" With that, Ryhir downs a potion and starts off to the west, hoping that Yeesha has spells that can reach far enough to be effective...
((Potion of Cure Light: 1d8(7) + 1 = 8 healed. 40' move to the west))

Posted by: Cyrus Fri Dec 02, 2005 3:09 am
Castor charges forth, loosing a wordless scream as his horns dug deep into the undead flesh. He then turns, swinging the axe with great force, but it passes harmlessly over the Sound. ((Attack 1= 18[roll]+4[BAB]+7[Str]+2[Charge]+2?[Music]=33.
Hit!{barely}
Damage=6+3[9]+12=21.
Attack 2=4[roll]+4[BAB]+7[Str]+5{enchantment]+2?[Music]=22.
Miss.))

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Fri Dec 02, 2005 3:33 am
The Sound's body is ravaged with wounds, but he finds the strength to lash out once more, once at Cedric and once at Castor. ((Hit, hit! 26 damage to Cedric, 25 to Castor.)) Kyoji misses. The sniper hits Ryhir, burning deep into his chest. ((Hit. 42 damage to Ryhir.))
Yeesha exits the cart, and looks at the two locations Ryhir specified, scrutinizing each one closely.

Posted by: Dark Maiden Fri Dec 02, 2005 3:51 am
Kethra strikes at the Sound two more times, but both punches hit only air. ((I rolled 3 and 11. 'Nuff said -_-)) ----- Damas moves forward and recites the same words and gestures, three more bolts of blue force flying towards the Sound. They hit him squarely and finally topple the fallen cleric. The sorcerer looks on with wide eyes. *Holy crap...*
(( Move 30'
Magic Missile cast
3d4 + 3 - 2 4 2 rolled - 11 total.
He died ))

Posted by: Kaihaku Fri Dec 02, 2005 6:44 am
Cedric slumps back at the blow, his strength fading... However, thanks to his specialized saddle he does not fall to the ground. [Fort to stabilize: 16 + 11 = 27] Fortune Cookie recoils as the Sound collapses, retreating from the foul corpse. First it moves wildly, in one direction and then another. However, after a moment it looks at Lady Yeesha and the caravan. It then breaks into a trot towards the caravan.

Posted by: Kyosokun Fri Dec 02, 2005 7:51 am
Ryhir gets shot, and falls down. Ow. I mean... Ryhir takes the blast in his sde, and crumples to the ground. Shit. I won't make it to him in this shape. Best to lay here, and hope Yeesha can work her end.... With that, Ryhir stays where he fell, feigning having fallen.

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Fri Dec 02, 2005 8:28 am
((Note to self: Yeesha failed curse check this round, but succeeded next round. Target: grassy knoll.))

Posted by: Wandering Dezorian Fri Dec 02, 2005 7:55 pm
Brand shakes the last of the mental phantasms plaguing him, and launches himself into the air, winging swiftly towards Ryhir to defend his ally. Action- Move up to 160' to Ryhir. Ready tower shield as I reach him, and I'll try to cover both of us. If he's within 40' of me, I'll use a dustup to conceal us in addition to the shield. Also, watch for sniper, see if I can locate him.

Posted by: White Rose Fri Dec 02, 2005 8:10 pm
((Grassy knoll, shooter. Oh, TUM. )) Acacia stops, uncertain of what to do. The enemy before her had fallen before she had even joined battle, but now people were screaming of a sniper. Those of her companions who were unaffected by fear seemed battle weary. Upon seeing Ryhir fall, she decides her best course of action would be to help end the battle as quickly as possible.
(Acacia runs towards the west, trying to stay out of the magical lashback that may be coming from Yeesha.)

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Fri Dec 02, 2005 10:58 pm
"It... What am I doing?" the Sound murmurs as his body rapidly crumbles to dust, then blows away in the wind, leaving behind a pile of equipment. Brand makes it to Ryhir's side no problem, but fails to see the sniper. Yeesha begins to chant, but a coughing fit interrupts her. Undaunted, she begins again.
A small column of smoke rises next to her as an invisible blast strikes the dirt next to Yeesha.
((A roll of a 1 is a miss even for the Silence.))

Posted by: Kaihaku Sat Dec 03, 2005 1:14 am
Fortune Cookie trots up the still body of Amelios and pauses confused. The noble steed then paws the fallen cleric, lowering its head to nudge Amelios.

Posted by: FreedomJu Sat Dec 03, 2005 1:16 am
Van runs towards Rock Pile

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Sat Dec 03, 2005 1:19 am
Zook drinks cocoa and makes copies of his plans on ADAM while 4 tinkers... tinker with it.

Posted by: Cyrus Sat Dec 03, 2005 1:20 am
Castor looks over the remains of the fallen mummy lord, axe held high overhead, his face a mixture of confusion and loss. Did that actually happen? Was this terrifying creature of death and decay brought down by...three little wisps of light? Turning from where the balls came from, the Castor saw...Damas? That little slip of a mage managed to kill the Sound?! He stared back at the remains of the now departed foe, completely dumbfounded. His life suddenly felt very, very empty...Coming out of that funk, he noticed people move toward what looked like a grassy knoll, and wanting to be useful after that fiasco, he begins to run toward it.
[160' to Grassy Knoll.]

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Sat Dec 03, 2005 1:33 am
An invisible blast of energy strikes Van as he runs toward the rock pile. Yeesha calls down the full force of her magical might, blasting apart the grassy knoll with tremendous arcs of lightning that leave the hill a smoking crater.

Posted by: Kaihaku Sat Dec 03, 2005 1:36 am
Fortune Cookie looks up at Yeesha helplessly, then back down at the healer. Acacia continues to run at the rock pile. [80 ft.]

Posted by: FreedomJu Sat Dec 03, 2005 1:37 am
Caught completly off guard, Van trips and falls to the ground. Grimacing against the pain, he quickly downs his Cure Serious Wounds potion. (25 HP healed)

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Sat Dec 03, 2005 1:45 am
Zook's ears twitch. [Listen 27] "Kettle's whistling, who wants tea?"

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Sat Dec 03, 2005 1:47 am
A brief scuffle is heard at the rock pile and when the others reach it, they find Kyoji's corpse, a hole burned cleanly through his chest. The only other thing at the site is a discarded and used energy clip. The area is scoured, but no more traces of the sniper can be found. He appears to have fled.
Total for this battle, story award for surviving a 'checkpoint', and the autobattled battle: 2000 XP

Posted by: Kaihaku Sat Dec 03, 2005 1:55 am
Sorry for modding but... Aurik uses the staff to revive Amelios. Amelios casts CSW on Faralon and abandons Brambles to cast CMW on Cedric. [Faralon + 25 hp] [Cedric +16 hp] Cedric awakens. The dead are revived with the staff. The energy clip is taken by Cedric. The party retreats into the caravan to discuss the battle.

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Sat Dec 03, 2005 2:00 am
Along with the technological gadgets he was carrying (there are 3, unidentifiable until a tinker can examine them), the Sound left behind the following: +2 full-plate armor, cloak of resistance +2, ring of minor energy resistance (cold).

Posted by: FreedomJu Sat Dec 03, 2005 2:04 am
Van groaned at the stupidity of it all as he struggled to his feet. First he was been frozen in place by the Sound's gaze, then before he could get close the mummy had been slain. Now it seems he had wasted his only healing potion as the other enemy had fled. Needless to say, he was not very happy at the moment. Not having any abilities of use outside of combat, Van heads over to where the Sound had died to help transport the loot back to the caravan.

Posted by: Kaihaku Sat Dec 03, 2005 3:02 am
Cedric leans wearily against the side of the wagon, "That was my fault, I should have been more cautious tactically... I expected a trap but not a sniper..." Amelios rises groggily, feeling frail and helpless. He looks around and sighs. This is no good. Even with this new armour...I fall so much quicker than usual. Unless...no, that couldn't be it. The kyantol remains locked in his own world, a niggling voice in the back of his head reminding him of the Strife Lord's promise... We can make you great...
Cedric shakes his head, "Very well, we'll store the technological items for Zook to examine later. We'll reallocate the equipment... Amelios, upgrade your armor. Van, you take his old armor. Faralon, you take the cloak. As for the ring..."
Faralon snatches the ring as Cedric holds it out and moves to Kethra's side, dropping to his knees, "Kethra..." He takes her hand gently, "Will you marry me?" It's the only way to make amends...
((Time Paradox...metal gear...whatever...))
"As for the ring..." Cedric frowns, "Who thinks they might need it?"
((Whoever needs it snatches it. We move after the healers like...heal.))

Posted by: FreedomJu Sat Dec 03, 2005 3:26 am
Van raises his hand as he shakes his head. "As much as I appreciate the offer, that armor looks to bulky and heavy for me to be comfortable using it. Give it to someone else Cedric."

Posted by: Rusty Sat Dec 03, 2005 8:04 am
((Who wants some CLW? 8 1 3 1 2 4 1 -_- Divide those up as the group sees fit. +5 per number. Yup. That's right. That totals 55. Out of a possible 91. (Or pure dice-wise, that's 20 out of 56...) )) === ((Faralon levels up to 7!
Faralon gains 7 new skill points!
6 points go to Use Magic Device
1 point goes to Perform
Faralon gains 8 HP!
Faralon's BAB goes up by 1!
Faralon learns the level 2 spell Sonic Weapon!
Faralon learns the level 3 spell Haste!
Faralon learns the level 3 spell Displacement!
Also selling shield for 76 gold. Can't make use of it anyway.))

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Sat Dec 03, 2005 8:10 am

QUOTE (Rusty @ Sat Dec 03, 2005 8:04 am)
((Who wants some CLW? 8 1 3 1 2 4 1 -_- Divide those up as the group sees fit. +5 per number. Yup. That's right. That totals 55. Out of a possible 91. (Or pure dice-wise, that's 20 out of 56...) ))

((I call dibs on the 22 needed to heal Kyoji back to full.))

Posted by: Arcdragnbreth Sat Dec 03, 2005 9:09 am

CODE
======================================================= Name: Ashathel Faesaen Race: Elf Class: Level 3 Wizard / Level 4 Swashbuckler Alignment: Chaotic Good
Size: Medium
Age: 60
Gender: Male
Height: 4'11"
Weight: 170 lbs
Eyes: Blue
Hair: Blonde
Skin: Pink
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
HP: 65
AC: 15
INIT: 1d20 + 4
FORT: +6
REF: +7
WILL: +4
Base Attack Bonus: +5
HD: d4 [WIZD], d10 [SWSH]
Base Movement: 30 ft
=== Abilities ===
STR: 15 (+2)
DEX: 18 (+4)
CON: 16 (+3)
INT: 18 (+4)
WIS: 11 (+0)
CHA: 11 (+0)
=== Skills ===
(W) Concentration (Con): +7 (additional +4 from Combat Casting)
(W) Decipher Script (Int): +1
(W) Knowledge: Arcana (Int): +1
(W) Knowledge: Architecture (Int): +1
(W) Knowledge: Dungeoneering (Int): +1
(W) Knowledge: Geography (Int): +1
(W) Knowledge: History (Int): +1
(W) Knowledge: Local (Int): +1
(W) Knowledge: Nature (Int): +1
(W) Knowledge: Nobility (Int): +1
(W) Knowledge: Religion (Int): +1
(W) Knowledge: The Planes (Int): +1
(W) Spellcraft (Int): +4
($) Craft (Int): +0
($) Profession (Wis): +0
(S) Balance (Dex): +7 (additional +2 from synergy)
(S) Bluff (Cha): +2
(S) Climb (Str): +1
(S) Diplomacy (Cha): +2
(S) Escape Artist (Dex): +6
(S) Jump (Str): +7 (additional +2 from synergy)
(S) Sense Motive: +2
(S) Swim (Str): +1
(S) Tumble (Dex): +7 (additional +2 from synergy)
(S) Use Rope (Dex): +2
(R) Listen : +2
(R) Search : +2
(R) Spot : +2
(O) Perform: Dance (Cha): +3
(O) Perform: Sing (Cha): +3
=== Feats / Class Features ===
(W) Scribe Scroll
(O) Combat Casting
(O) Combat Expertise
(S) Insightful Strike
(O) Light Armor Proficiency
(O) Martial Weapon Proficiency
(O) Simple Weapon Proficiency
(O) Weapon Focus: Rapier
(O) Weapon Finesse
=== Languages ===
(O) Elven
(O) Common
(O) Draconic
=== Spells ===
<} Slots {>
(O) Lvl. 0: 4
(O) Lvl. 1: 2
(O) Lvl. 2: 2
<} Spells {>
[] Level 0
(O) All
[]Level 1
(O) Protection from Evil
(O) Shield
(O) Magic Missile
(O) True Strike
(O) Expeditious Retreat
(O) Mage Armor
(O) Shocking Grasp
(O) Enlarge Person
(O) Color Spray
(O) Sleep
(O) Orb of Electricity (Lesser)
(O) Orb of Cold (Lesser)
(O) Orb of Acid (Lesser)
(O) Repair Light Damage
[]Level 2
(O) Acid Arrow
(O) Scorching Ray
(O) Cat's Grace
(O) Energy Blade
(O) Charged Bolt
(O) Fireblast
(O) Blur
(O) Spectral Hand
=== Weapons ===
(O) Mwk Elven Thinblade +1 {1d8 dmg, 18-20/x2 crit, 6lbs}
(O) Mwk Rapier +1 {1d6 dmg, 18-20/x2 crit, 2lbs}
(O) M. Mwk Comp. S-bow +3 {1d6+3 dmg. X3 crit, 2lbs}
=== Armor / Shield / Bracer ===
(/) Belt of Armor +1 {+1 AC, 1lb.}
=== Shield ===
NONE
=== Inventory ===
(O) Arrows [10]
(O) Serpentstongue Arrows [20]
(O) Spell Component Pouch
(O) Ink and Quill
(O) Spellbook
(O) 1214 GP
(O) 2 Cure Light Wounds potions
(O) 2 Cure Moderate Wounds potions
(O) 2 Bolt 1 scrolls
=== Natural ===
(O) Darkvision (60ft)
(O) Automatic Search check on all secret/concealed doors
(O) Immune to magic sleep effects
(O) +2 save against enchantments & charms
== Current XP ==
21600/21000

((Ashathel was "shook" and as such hasn't done anything yet at all.
== Spells ==
Lvl. 0: Ray of Frost, Ray of Frost, Magic Missile, Magic Missile
Lvl. 1: Orb of Electricity, Orb of Electricity
Lvl. 2: Charged Bolt, Cat's Grace))

Posted by: Dark Maiden Sat Dec 03, 2005 8:40 pm
((IIRL both Damas and Kethra had enough to level up from this battle. I will send you the modified text document later, when I have access to the computer that all of my information is on Also, I'm not hurt)) Damas stands there for a few more moments, unable to believe that he had finished off the Sound. When he sees the others moving towards the rock pile, he pulls the hood of his cloak over his face and moves towards it as well. When he finds Kyoji's corpse, his eyes widen with shock at the hole burned through him. *H-how is that possible? Must be more of those 'technological' weapons...* he thinks with disgust.
Kethra rushes to the rock pile as fast as she is able, and she stops dead in her tracks when she sees Kyoji's body. *Kyoji... Whoever he fought must have either been powerful, or had a strong weapon...* The thought of more technology unsettles her, but she doesn't say anything for now.
-----
After the dead are raised and they have 'retreated' back to the cart, Damas leans against it, his form now shrouded be his cloak and robes. "Cedric, it wasn't your fault... It could have ended much sooner if my spells had actually done significant damage.." When Cedric mentions the ring, he reaches out with a partially gloved hand and politely asks for it. The sorcerer looks it over for a moment and then looks back to the paladin. "This is probably what protected the Sound from my magic. If it is not too much to ask, might I have it?"
"It was not your fault Cedric, or yours Damas. I could not will my limbs to move...and even when I could, my attacks did nothing..." Kethra hangs her head.
((Anyone in the party could find use for the ring. Seeing as how pretty much every member has gotten a magic item, some with 2 or 3, and I haven't, I'm calling the ring for Damas unless anyone really wants to 'fight' about it))

Posted by: Aldur Sun Dec 04, 2005 12:33 am
Again. Again the undead, those poor sufferer's of another master have killed me. I shall not be defeated. But I feel so...weak. Amelios sighed and looked around, trying to shake the strange malaise form him, yet could not. he merely does what is asked of him until they continue on towards their destination.
He then sat in meditation on the way, quietly awaiting the arrival there, trying to commune with the Goddess.
Great Earth Goddess I am sorely troubled. So many conflicting emotions.
(( http://beaugran.club.fr/cd/sf2/Princess%20Ellis.mp3 <It's Mitula's. I don't care what they say. Elis was never in the damn forest. ))
: Dear Amelios...he has indeed sent your mind reeling. But I ask you, what do you think? Ignore what I think. Ignore what he thinks. What do you think?
: What do...I think?
: Indeed. Think for yourself! Find your own way! And in doing so...the knowledge that you crave so much will be yours. No matter what who says...you are the only one who can truly find yourself. Others can only tell you what to be. So again I ask. What do you want to be? Who are you? What do you seek?
: I seek...I seek my place in the world! I wander around doing the whim of others all my life. Where do I make the decisions!? I did Sister Amelia's Work! I did your work! What is what I want!?
: Pained Kyantol...can you not see? Are you not here because you wish it so? Is this not our decision? After all, many times you could have turned back, and a few times even advised to do so? Yet you continued on. Why?
: I...that's because...you! I was...doing it for you.
: Come now, you know that is not true. Simply doing your regular duties and not volunteering for this would have been for me. But you pounced on this chance. You are on a journey to find yourself. And find your own way you must!
And the Cleric emerged from his meditation, smiling peacefully. He felt...empowered, if even only a little.
((Level up!
Taken 1st level in Sacred Purifier!
Gained greater Turning!
+2 Fort!
+2 Will!
+3 Ranks in Search!
+1 rank in heal
+8 hp! ))

Posted by: Kaihaku Sun Dec 04, 2005 1:26 am
A brief rest had, Cedric has the caravan continue on. Those who require rest are allowed to sleep in the backs of the wagons. Continuing on into the night, Cedric plans on stopping the caravan shortly before the castle and sending Kyoji in to scout out the situation.
((I'm assuming that somehow, the group heals the most wounded. I won't update my hp yet but we wouldn't move unless that was done.))

Posted by: Big Poppa Sun Dec 04, 2005 4:28 am
--Zook, Damas, and Kethera all fall off a cliff, but Zook somehow lives by landing on Damas and Kethera. Zook gets 11,000 EXP for accomplishing this. But he also becomes Chaotic Neutral.-- Turn to page 73.

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Sun Dec 04, 2005 4:30 am

QUOTE (Big Poppa @ Sun Dec 04, 2005 4:28 am)
--Zook, Damas, and Kethera all fall off a cliff, but Zook somehow lives by landing on Damas and Kethera. Zook gets 11,000 EXP for accomplishing this. But he also becomes Chaotic Neutral.-- Turn to page 73.

This happens in a parallel universe far from this campaign.
Also, Scare is immolated by his own farts in a tragic accident involving a campfire and baked beans.
According to Zombie Mitz, his corpse was not tasty, while his brains were a bit on the salty side, but otherwise fine.

Posted by: Knight_019 Sun Dec 04, 2005 6:12 am
((Merkass becomes level 6 (Scout 4/Ranger 2)! HP increase by 5! BAB increases by 1! REF increases by 1! Climb increases by 1!
Disable Device increases by 1!
Hide increases by 1!
Listen increases by 1!
Move Silently increases by 2!
Search increases by 1!
Spot increases by 2!
Survival increases by 1!
Tumble increases by 1!
Merkass gains the feat Weapon Focus (Longbow)!
Merkass gains the feat Alertness!
))
*The burned body of Kyoji leads Merkass to recall other times and other places. Just recently, Shailtor had left him a crumpled heap of a man. Where had Merkass been this entire time? He had taken too much valuable time to find the Silence, and now, here Kyoji lay, battered. Why had he failed so? He had come so far. Maybe Shailtor had been right. Thus far, Merkass wasn't living up to his role as a warrior. He would show that demon, though... or at least he would try. Searching around the area, Merkass finds tracks leading in the direction of their destination: The Iom Shrine. The Silence had already taken off ahead of them, and he would be waiting there for them yet again. This time they would be prepared, or at least he hoped. Being able to find the Silence's path gave Merkass a newfound hope, but would it be enough? Could they really defeat one as powerful as he? Even Kyoji, invisible as he was, could not stand against him. The Silence could outrange even Merkass' bow, and with far greater accuracy. A chosen of Mitula had fallen against his power. Who could stand against the Strife Lords and their minions? Merkass felt only time could tell. Keeping to himself for the time, Merkass looked off into the blue skies and then the forests around, and he frowned. Usually, he smiled, or his face was like a stone. But now, he showed actual displeasure. Times are changing, and he knew it. He would reveal what he knows when the time is right.*
*Twice now, Amelios had fallen. This time, Aurik had done his best to aid his allies, and had even taken special attention to his fellow cleric. He had warded Amelios against harm, and still he was struck down by an unseen hand. Aurik had felt the sting of the Silence's burning, invisible ray. It was unclean, unfit to be called fire. Fire is the tool of Volcanon, and this was no holy, cleansing flame to be sure. The battle was stuck in Aurik's head now. The hideous visage of the Sound forever captured in his mind. He imagined the Sound's previous conquests. His terrible maw, stretched open, and the stench of unlife many years past issuing forth. That maw, brought down upon the flesh of innocents, gore, blood, and guts spilling forth everywhere. Yet the Sound stood, relishing in it. Aurik soon dropped to his knees, covered his eyes, and wept. Still, the images haunted him. Men, women, children, animals, all of them falling before the Sound, Shailtor, demons, devils, and assorted undead. The waves issued forth through villages, and none could stand in their way. In one place, Aurik could see a wight gripping the head of a young child, and with a twist, breaks his neck. Soon thereafter, a flock of ghouls rushes forth and begins to feast on its flesh as a game animal. The child's dead eyes stare blankly back at him, as if asking him "Why?" Why what? Why could he not save him, or anyone? In horror, Aurik sees it all, the muscles, sinews, blood, veins, and innards of the child relished and ravaged by the ravenous undead. Elsewhere, a centaur in the blackest armor charges a family, impaling them all on his long, pointed lance. With great strength, he raises his lance in the air, man, woman, and child still upon it, and laughs heartily. Why would the images not cease!? Aurik finally gripped his hair, screamed, and looked to the sky. "Volcanon, where are you now?" he wondered.*
*Back at the caravan, while the battle still raged, Rhizor paced uneasily, eyes darting back and forth to those still around. "Insolent fools!" he thought. "They would leave me here to rot! A force of nature left to babysit children!" The batling was certainly their elder, and yet they felt they could discard him. He weilded primal forces whose might they could hardly comprehend, yet they would scoff and leave him elsewhere. Who gave them such right. Surely, that haughty paladin was behind this. Did he know? No, he knew nothing. It was behind them. What of the others? Surely, the cat man understood. He wandered the plains all his life. Maybe he could talk to them. Rhizor is certainly far from dumb, but he knows his appearance is far from favorable. But the clerics... always tied to their gods. What did they care of his glorious plans? Still, there were others. So many others. The monk is an outcast, as is the sorcerer. Could he trust them? Any of them? Rhizor continued to pace, and his eyes continued to dart. Occassionally he sneered. His look could sour milk at such occassions. He should be out there! Yet, here he is. They would come grovelling back to him, asking him to join them, to help them? Why should he!? No, he should help them. Then he could prove how wrong they were to neglect him. He had cooked them dinner many nights in the wilderness, yet they repaid him like this!? If saving their lives would not avail, then certainly they were a lost cause. Making a quick jump and flapping his wings to make it the rest of the way up, Rhizor latched on to one of the rings atop the wagon and hung in quiet contemplation. Occassionally, his body quaked with great fervor, but he said nothing.*
~~~

Posted by: Cyrus Sun Dec 04, 2005 6:25 am
[Back at the ranch...] Castor pondered on the battle they had just faced. Here, he saw how fragile this party actually was. In little less than half a minute, three people had died or nearly died, and their opponents had been only two opponents. True, one was a horrifying mockery of the cleric he had been in life, while the other was so far away, he couldn't really be seen. But that was it; no matter how powerful they had been, it was only two people. One of them had escaped, and half of them were scared out of their minds! He sighed as these thoughts ran through his head...And thought that he should get back to doing his job. Castor, thus, volunteers to be on the guard for the night.

Posted by: Kaihaku Sun Dec 04, 2005 7:59 am
Kyoji returns to report the following, emerging from invisibility like a swimming person from the water. "The ruins are only a mile or two ahead, the area around them... The ground is covered with corpses," Kyoji says, his breathing slightly heavy.
"What sort of corpses? No sign of the enemy?" Cedric queries, slightly disturbed, "If our information was false, the prince could be anywhere by now..."
"Cultists... and monsters... I'd estimate at least fifty cultists with another fifty beasts, probably more..." Kyoji reports. "But also soldiers... and I identified the bodies of Gates and Slade among the dead."
Cedric frowns, "The results of a grim battle then?"
"Not results... I heard fighting from further in, I think the battle is still raging!" Kyoji states.
"Dean must've rallied the survivors and organized a counter offensive..." Yeesha murmurs.
Cedric frowns, "Then we must continue moving..." He looks around swiftly, speaking loudly, "To arms! This is no time for stealth, we must move swiftly! Rise my weary friends!"
The Paladin looks to Yeesha, "Milady..." A moment later, the noble Fortune Cookie reappears from thin air, "If you would..." He offers a hand to aid her in reaching the saddle, "We must move swiftly..."
"Of course," Yeesha says, accepting the hand.
Cedric helps the lady to mount Fortune Cookie and looks to the others, "We must leave the caravan behind for now... But swiftly, to the battle..."
Turning, the Paladin starts towards the battlefield. He speaks to Kyoji as he jogs, "Tell me the lay of the land..."
"It's mainly a flat grassy plain, but it gets hilly near the shrine itself." Kyoji begins.
"Amelios! We will need that staff to revive some fallen allies." Cedric yells behind him for a moment before speaking to Kyoji once more, "Only one entrance?"
Kyoji continues, "Only one that I saw, but I didn't check too closely. I ran as fast as I could to get the rest of you when I heard the battle."
Cedric nods, "I hope this is not merely another one of the Strife Lord's games... When we arrive, swiftly take your unit in ahead of the slower of us. Watch out for a trap but reinforce any allies present as quickly as possible..."
"Very well." Kyoji states.

Posted by: Wandering Dezorian Sun Dec 04, 2005 7:41 pm
"And me?" Brand asks, stretching his wings as he talks. "What are your orders?" OOC: Level-up later, but Brand can now fly for unlimited time, and will take undead as a new focused enemy when he takes his next ranger level.

Posted by: Dark Maiden Sun Dec 04, 2005 11:31 pm
((Level ups, GO! Damas levels up to 7 * Max HP increases by 5 * 1 rank in Concentration * 1 rank in Knowledge (Arcana)
* 1 rank in Spellcraft
* Lesser Orb of Cold learned
* Mirror Image learned
* Displacement learned
* Spells per day increases
* Familiar's stats increase
Kethra levels up to 7
* Max HP increases by 7
* BAB increases by 1
* All attack bonuses increase by 1
* 1 rank in Listen
* 4 ranks in Spot
* Wholeness of Body
* Flurry of Blows attack bonus increases
Text documents are being sent to TUM ))

Posted by: Kaihaku Mon Dec 05, 2005 12:29 am
Cedric nods, "Brand, a special task I assign to you and one you are well suited for. Carefully scout out the area ahead, if it is indeed a trap forewarn us and if not then move into a position that will allow you to hinder the enemy. You know what you are well suited for...strike swiftly and withdraw before they can harm you."

Posted by: Wandering Dezorian Mon Dec 05, 2005 1:13 am
Brand nods, then looks around. "Does anyone have a bow I can borrow? Mine didn't fare well against the godling's visit."

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Mon Dec 05, 2005 9:08 am
The group arrives at the entrance to the ruined Iom Shrine in short order the airborne surveillance of Brand finding the way clear. A once proud, albeit in an evil manner, struture, the pillared cylindrical temple is now crumpled in on itself, rubble everywhere. From deep within the darkened entrance comes the clang of steel on steel, screams, and the occasional explosion, or crackle of lightning.
The entrance to the Shrine is surrounded by corpses, freshly slain.
"The fighting seems to have intensified even more judging from the sounds..." Kyoji says as he gestures. "Come! We must make haste!"

Posted by: Wandering Dezorian Mon Dec 05, 2005 7:29 pm
((How sound is the roof of this temple? Can I enter from above, or do I have to enter with the rest of the team?))

Posted by: Nightmare Mon Dec 05, 2005 7:52 pm
((Sounds like good timing to come back into play. I rolled for the saves from the last battle, and failed the fear check, but passed the rest... so I suppose that can explain why Laika didn't do anything. Let me know if I do or don't get any of the experience the grup got while I wasn't around.))
After Laika could think clearly, and the battle had ended he began to wonder... why was he even considering Shailtor's offer anymore? Too many innocent people had died and been tortured because of the foul creatures cause.
This was something that Laika could not stand for. He would fight until his last breath to stop this cult and end the suffering it was creating, whether it was with Yeesha and the rest of the force, by himself, or with another group dedicated to the same cause. It didn't matter, they needed to be stopped, and the wolfman's own wants and needs would become secondary to this cause.
***
As the group reached the shrine, Laika could only hope that they were in time to help. His anger with those responsible for all this death and suffering burning like the flames from his gauntlets. There was going to be hell to pay. And he intended on being the one to collect.

Posted by: Aldur Mon Dec 05, 2005 8:46 pm
Amelios with Staff of Life in eyes looks over the corpses, trying to find the members of the shining Force that perhaps have been slain. ((If I can, I'll revive them. >:D))

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Mon Dec 05, 2005 10:22 pm
Brand: How long are you willing to search for an entry? Keep in mind, there's no guarantee it'll lead to where the other force members will be heading. Amelios: Very well, make a search check, and how long are you willing to search? Kyoji is already heading inside.

Posted by: Dark Maiden Mon Dec 05, 2005 10:37 pm
((Damas is casting Mage Armor on Ashathel, then heading in when Faralon gives the word I assume Kethra is already heading in as well, since she's with Kyoji's group, right?))

Posted by: Kaihaku Mon Dec 05, 2005 10:40 pm
((Right. Tanooki(Faralon, Isyndel, and Damas), Cedric, and Amelios are searching for fallen Shining Forcers. The remainder of the expedition are heading inside at once but at a slower rate than Wyvern. We should follow them instead 3-4 rounds from now.))

Posted by: Aldur Mon Dec 05, 2005 10:47 pm
I love the way that's now a class skill. ^^ And long enough to determine the clothes they be wearing. I mean, if I can revive Slade, I could tell him by his religious vestary right? Search check: 20 http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v67/Geddis/SearchFTW.gif +7 = 27.
=D

Posted by: Dark Maiden Mon Dec 05, 2005 11:00 pm
((Marine, here are teh text documents http://www.geocities.com/tenshinekootome/rpgstuff/Damas.txt http://www.geocities.com/tenshinekootome/rpgstuff/Kethra.txt Both are accurate, or should be. I checked over them enough Fear Damas' search check!
1d20 + 3 - 14 rolled - 17 total
...of 17 -_-))

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Tue Dec 06, 2005 4:34 am
Amelios is able to find the two force members in the first 6 seconds of searching. (1 round) Using the wand will burn a round each time, so... (Ressurect, Heal. Ressurect, Heal. 4 charges, 4 rounds.) Confirm this? Also, I need search checks from the others.

Posted by: Knight_019 Tue Dec 06, 2005 6:17 am
*Swiftly did they move, and Merkass found it to his liking. Action and speed were his greatest allies in all situations. Knowing that lives were on the line, Merkass found time to approach Cedric, who seemed to be giving commands at the moment.*
: The item the Silence left behind was not the only thing to be found. Indeed, he left some trails leading in the direction of the Iom Fortress, our destination. It would be wise to proceed with caution, for this dangerous adversary will be awaiting us.
*Saying no more, and merely nodding to anything else Cedric might say to him, Merkass left to prepare. Wishing the tinker were here, so that they might create some defense against the Silence's strange weapon, Merkass sat and meditated the entire way to the fortress. A few times, he thought of scouting ahead a bit to ensure the caravan's safe destination, but what good would it do? Shailtor had crippled his body by sheer force of thought. The Silence could strike invisibly from a distance. What good could his sight do? He had found the Silence's tracks, yes, but the Silence was also sloppy. Anyone else could have found him...*
*Aurik took to himself for the journey to the fortress. Though he would not have minded company, nor did he desire to be a recluse, Aurik had inner demons to struggle with and cleanse. How could he, as a cleric and healer, be strong in his faith if he was weak of mind and body? He closed his eyes, afraid to sleep, yet unwilling to stay awake. Childhood nightmares assailed him once more, only more vivid, more colorful. He saw Dezmon assailing his mother, bloodlust in his eyes. His fingernails were like claws, and his mouth was a gaping maw filled with teeth. In his contemplative position, Aurik began to shake slightly and rock back and forth. His father hadn't been possessed by an evil spirit, per se, as he had been led to believe. Instead, Dezmon had been possessed by something far more evil and cunning: Himself. Where had Volcanon been, then? What was he thinking. Volcanon had come to him, saved him, taken him in as a servant, and now he was blessed to perform wonders and miracles in his name. This must be a test, surely it is. Aurik knew the stories of men, priests, women, and commoners alike who had been "forsaken" only to find greater strength and resilience within themselves. He would wait, and contemplate, and find his way through this hard time. But until them, it certainly was hard.*
~~~
((Merkass' Listen/Search/Spot checks: 16/27/25))
*Merkass searches through the ruins of the battle field, hoping to find any survivors. Unsure if any could be found, he tried anyway, leaving no stone unturned. Upon seeing that Amelios had discovered members of the Shining Force, Merkass continued to look for any other members of the Shining Force. If great heroes such as they had fallen, how could he and his allies hope to prevail?*

Posted by: Kaihaku Tue Dec 06, 2005 6:25 am
As the group stops, Merkass warns Cedric that the Silence moved into the ruins before them. [Diplomacy: 4 + 15 = 19] With a frown, Cedric asks Lady Yeesha to summon Derrik. He does this instead of searching. The instant Derrik appears he begins speaking, "I apolgize but we need your aid at once. The Silence, a sniper, is laying in wait before us and we need some means of preventing him from slaughtering us as he did at our last encounter. We need to move to support out allies as soon as possible, so please make haste. Anything with do, a ward to protect, a means of throwing off his aim...whatever you think best. The party is willing to spent up to 2000 gold for this... More if you think it necessary."
Meanwhile, the three melee units with Aurik and Merkass contiune into the ruins. Brand continues above.

Posted by: Arcdragnbreth Tue Dec 06, 2005 7:03 am
"Gryphon, let's go; get this show on the road, damnit! Keep your head down and eyes open! Move fast to keep Wyvern covered!" the spellcasting swashbuckler said, even has he expended precious magical energies to increase his movements. All the while, he kept his eyes open and ears perked, attempting to keep from being surprised as they went deeper into the temple.
((Casting Cat's Grace on Ashathel; +4 Dex is sexy.
Also...
Spot: 1d20 + 2 = 21
Listen: 1d20 + 2 = 22
Search: 1d20 + 6 = 10
Move Silently: 1d20 + 6 = 17
[o] Dex + 4, effective AC 21
== Spells ==
Lvl. 0: Ray of Frost, Ray of Frost, Magic Missile, Magic Missile
Lvl. 1: Orb of Electricity, Orb of Electricity
Lvl. 2: Charged Bolt))

Posted by: Dark Maiden Tue Dec 06, 2005 7:12 am
((More search checks, Marine? Ok... 2nd Search: 1d20 + 3 - 8 rolled - 11 total 3rd Search: 1d20 + 3 - 15 rolled - 18 total Also, if he is using Resurrection like I think he is, it restores people to life at their full hit points. Heal would not be needed))

Posted by: FreedomJu Tue Dec 06, 2005 7:15 am
(Spot: 17 Search: 23 Listen: 12 Move Silently: 23) Van sprints after Ashathel, careful not to make any undue noise while he keeps his eyes open for trouble.

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Tue Dec 06, 2005 7:16 am
Shouldering Atlas, Castor does as Ashathel commands, focusing on his heightened senses and following the arcane swordsman inward. ((Spot: 1d20(15) + 3 = 18 Listen: 1d20(12) + 3 = 15 Search: 1d20(6) + 5 = 11 Move Silently: 1d20(20) + 2 = 22))

Posted by: Nightmare Tue Dec 06, 2005 7:21 am
Laika gains a level! (Werewolf 4/ Barbarian 2/ Fighter 1) HP increase by 15! BAB increases by 1! FORT increases by 1! Intimidate increases by 5!
Gained Uncanny Dodge!
((I just realised that intimidate is off by two... it should be +13 not + 11.))
Laika moves in with Kyoji trying to be as quiet as possible, while trying to get a better look at his surroundings.
Spot: 11 + 8 = 19
Listen: 17 + 10 = 27
Search: 14 + 1 = 15
MS: 14 + 4 = 18

Posted by: Rusty Tue Dec 06, 2005 7:26 am
((Please note, ALL of my healing is free to snatch up, even the 8 and 4, since Kyoji was healed when he was revived. Please take your numbers and heal yourselves. I don't want my 7 healings to be a complete waste...Take them OOC. I'll take the 8 + 5, giving Faralon a total of 33 HP now.
The remaining numbers are: 1 3 1 2 4 1. Each is +5. I'd suggest some frontliners and Aurik take them.))
*Faralon casts Invisibility on Amelios immediately before it is time to head into battle.*
: "It would seem the Chaos Cult has a particular dislike for you, Amelios. With this invisibility, The Silence should not even know you are present. Be careful, and try to revive any that fall. Do NOT attack or you will waste the spell, though I'm sure you know that already. It is very important to keep our allies alive here, for we are all exhausted - yet we must press on."
*Faralon nods to the general area of Amelios, then turns to address his company - Tanooki.*
: "All right...This battle may be even more difficult than the last. If you have any support magic, I advise you use it now. The front lines will be doing most of the work, as usual, so we'll do what we can to aid them now. Beware of The Silence. As you saw before, he can take us out swiftly. If there are any obstacles to hide behind, it would be best to utilize them. If you have any area attacks, I think it would be best to use those first and foremost before our melee fighters get in the area. However, given there's already a battle raging on inside - we may not get that opportunity after all..."
*Faralon looks down, then turns to Isyndel.*
: "We've taken care of The Sound, so hopefully you won't freeze up this time. Unless I'm wrong...you still have a great deal of magic left...and we'll need every bit of it. So please do not let fear get to you."
*Faralon looks at Damas, and then back to Isyndel.*
: "Well, then...Tanooki - let's head to our positions, unless either of you have any support magic you wish to cast."

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Tue Dec 06, 2005 7:37 am
Though the others pick through the corpses, only Amelios finds any members of the Force. "Where... Who are you?" Slade asks as he awakens. "nnn... NO! Watch ou... Huh?" Gates asks as he returns to life. >Placeholder portion for major post I don't have the will to write right now that will lead to the next battle.

Posted by: Dark Maiden Tue Dec 06, 2005 7:48 am
((Damas will cast Mirror Image on himself right before they go in. As far as I know, the images will follow him around Rolled a 3...so I like there are 4 or 5 images of him now, plus the real one))

Posted by: Aldur Tue Dec 06, 2005 8:55 am
"A friend, with the Lady Yeesha, Can the two of you move and fight now? We must help your still battling companions." Amelios, being invisible nodded at them, then realised they couldn't see it. ((I believe it's 2 rounds, as you get full hp back after ressurection.))
"We must hurry!"

Posted by: Wandering Dezorian Tue Dec 06, 2005 4:32 pm
Seach check: 17(1d20) + 1 (I think...?) I'll edit it once I get back home and look up my search skill.

Posted by: Knight_019 Thu Dec 08, 2005 8:59 pm
((Alright, the last placeholder was filled in. If anyone is unsure of XP totals, http://magic19.homestead.com/files/sfcw2xp.xls. Aurik becomes level 7 (Priest 5/Combat Medic 2)! HP increase by 7! BAB increases by 1! REF increases by 1!
Concentration increases by 1!
Heal increases by 1!
Knowledge (Religion) increases by 1!
Spellcraft increases by 1!
Spot increases by 1!
Aurik gains 1 Orison!
Aurik gains 1 level 1 spell!
I need to rework out Aurik's gold so that I know exactly what equipment he has.))

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Fri Dec 09, 2005 7:35 am
Outside the Ruins: : "Of course! Lead the way!" Slade says, picking up his Holy Staff. : "Being given a second chance at victory, how can we not accept! I will claim vengeance for my fallen comrades!" ------ Those entering the shrine run a short maze of twisted and partially collapsed tunnels as they finally emerge into what was the main antechamber for the worship hall of the Shrine, the same place where the Iom General Barbara made her final stand against the second Shining Force...
Great columns support a once awesome vaunted ceiling. Now the ceiling sags, partially collapsed in places, many columns and walls showing great cracks on their stone surfaces.
Corpses are everywhere. Cultists, monsters, soldiers... Even a few of what must've been the rallied survivors of Cypress' expedition. Among the corpses stand fierce guardians of stone, steel, magic, and flesh alike...
But even that is not what catches your eye...
At the raised platform before the caved in door that once led to the Worship Hall, and beyond, the unholy Chamber of Iom, a fierce battle is taking place.
A great worm-like creature with a gaping maw and its Cultist attendants battle the legendary heroes Dean Deanna and Natasha Deanna from the Cypress Shining Force! Shriek and Claude fly above, dive-slashing at the great monster.
: "Dean! I'm... I'm almost out of magic... We can't keep this up!" Natasha shouts over the din of battle.
: "It's got to be almost dead... It's got to! Just hold out a little longer..."
The heroic swordsman and his wizardess companion struggle valiantly as they cast spell and swing sword at the vile monster. Dean dashes forward and drives his blade into the vile beast. The maggot-thing bellows in rage as it is injured, roaring louder still as Natasha summons the power of Ultimate Blaze to attack the monster as well. Despite being enveloped in flame, the bloated beast manages to lunge at Dean with its gaping maw. The skilled swordsman manages to avoid partially, but isn't fast enough... The huge jaws clamp around and tear off Dean's left arm, his shield arm, causing the shocked hero to stumble backward, pressing his swordbearing arm to his wound and screaming.
Music: http://www.shinola.radh.com/guest/Vox/06%20-%20Sad%20Theme.mp3
: "Dean!!! NO!!!" Natasha screams as in the air, two great scaled demons fly into the already wounded birdmen and cast them down with powerful blows from their claws and chains. The two winged warriors spiral down, crashing into the ground with a sickening thud as the demons laugh heartily. Natasha doesn't have time to reply as a volley of arrows embed themselves in her chest. The young mage coughes up blood as she falls to the floor. Dean looks over weakly to Natasha, and cries out in pain again as the abomination they were fighting slams into him with its body, then withdraws. When he does, Dean's right leg is seen to have been twisted at an odd angle... bone juts out from it.
: "Na...tash...a..." Dean chokes, finding it difficult to speak as he stops to cough up blood, crawling slowly toward the downed mage.
: "Dean... I... love..." Natasha whispers, reaching out to touch Dean's outstretched fingers.
"How touching..." a greenhaired sorceror mutters as he walks up, shouting a few arcane words and gesturing to the fallen hero and heroine as they crawl towards each other, trying to reach out one last time. Green fire envelops both of them and they scream, but do not stop crawling until both are close, their outstretched fingertips touching each other's hands.
: "Na... Natasha..." Dean bites out through the pain as he grasps Natasha's hand and holds on even as the fire reduced both of them to mere outlines encasing in roaring, sickly yellowish green flame.
: "D... Dean..." Natasha whispers.
The two finally lie still, hand in hand, together in death. The sorceror chuckles.
"That's special fire. Burns vampires and prevents ressurrections... A pity. The Lords would've liked to have played with you, if only you hadn't of proven your resilience time and time again... Perhaps your Prince will fare better..." the sorceror mutters, nudging the burnt remains of Dean with a boot.
: "The enemy force looks strong, but they've all been weakened by Dean's assault! This may be the only chance we have of stopping them! If we retreat now, they can rejuvenate back to full strength!" Kyoji shouts as he takes stock of the battle. "Don't let their sacrifices be in vain!!"
"Try all you like, little ninja. You don't have a chance..." the sorceror sneers as he steps forward.
Music: http://bluelaguna.net/downloads/mp3s/sforceneocollection/22%20Dark%20Castle%20-%20Battle.mp3

Posted by: Rusty Fri Dec 09, 2005 8:03 am
((1 3 1 2 1 + 25 = 33 HP restored to Cedric, then. Knight used two healing wards...totaling 32 HP to the group. We should all be fully healed, I think.))

Posted by: Arcdragnbreth Fri Dec 09, 2005 8:53 am
"Van, attack the large stony creature; your weapon will be effective in stopping their power. Everyone else, stay clear while others soften them up! Castor, Blaze the gun wileder and those around him! Let's move fast and hit hard, while they're still weak from the Shining Force's efforts!"
Ashathel quickly slipped an arrow from his quiver and let it fly at the nearest priest, all the while giving orders to his team and suggestions to all others.
((Arrow at the Priest in the lower right corner, then move 4 squares right and one square up.
Attack: 1d20 + 5 (bab) + 6 (dex) + 3 (boots) + 1 (bow) = 29
Damage: 1d6 + 3 (str) + 3 (boots) = 7
[o] Dex + 4, effective AC 21
== Spells ==
Lvl. 0: Ray of Frost, Ray of Frost, Magic Missile, Magic Missile
Lvl. 1: Orb of Electricity, Orb of Electricity
Lvl. 2: Charged Bolt))

Posted by: Aldur Fri Dec 09, 2005 10:03 am
"Hurry we must! Come!" The Cleric hurries into the battleground, the two members of the shining force hopefully by his side and when he arrives he stares around at all the monsters. He takes a deep breath and decides to remain hidden, thinking to revive the fallen members of the shining force. He headed towards Stock.
((When he can Amelios will move steathily towards the fallen members of the shining force, unless they've all been hit by that fire. Then He'll be waiting to heal the others.))

Posted by: Dark Maiden Fri Dec 09, 2005 6:19 pm
((I think we are at least 3-4 rounds behind the rest of the force. Am I right Marine? Here is Kethra's initiative... 1d20 + 8 - 11 rolled - 19 total She'll be awaiting orders <_<))

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Fri Dec 09, 2005 9:02 pm
Nodding at Ashathel's command, Castor stands still, raising Atlas over his head, a cascade of flame falling some moments later centered upon the fell machine and its pilot. ((Blaze 3 invoked. centered on the artillery due south of the green haired dude. 15' radius, so it should hit 8 or nine enemies, depending on if that one knight is in range.
53 damage, REF for half))

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Fri Dec 09, 2005 10:40 pm

QUOTE (Dark Maiden @ Fri Dec 09, 2005 6:19 pm)
((I think we are at least 3-4 rounds behind the rest of the force. Am I right Marine? Here is Kethra's initiative... 1d20 + 8 - 11 rolled - 19 total She'll be awaiting orders <_<))

((Damas is, Kethra went with the first group in. Look at the map, she's right there.))

Posted by: Dark Maiden Fri Dec 09, 2005 11:10 pm
((I meant to tell Aldur that Amelios, Cedric, and the mages [Faralon, Damas, and Isyndel] are at least that far behind everyone else. I know Kethra is there, but she is awaiting orders))

Posted by: GE Silver Dragon Sat Dec 10, 2005 5:00 am
((Joku's init: 1d20 + 3 = 14 + 3 = 17 Joku shall also be awaiting orders, whenever Ryhir is ready to give them. >.>))

Posted by: Kaihaku Sat Dec 10, 2005 4:42 pm
Cedric nods to the newly revived members of the Shining Force, "Come friends, your allies continue to fight inside." The Paladin then looks to Lady Yeesha, "You have been here before? Guide us." Quickly, the remaining members of the expedition move inside following Yeesha who rides Fortune Cookie.

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Sat Dec 10, 2005 7:40 pm
((Just a note, if you commander doesn't issue orders by the time I move this, you'll all be still awaiting orders, twiddling your thumbs unless you decide to take action while Ryhir's standing around.))

Posted by: Kaihaku Sat Dec 10, 2005 7:56 pm
((Just do what you would normally do until he gives you orders.))

Posted by: Dark Maiden Sat Dec 10, 2005 9:09 pm
((I just got this from Marine, so I'm taking an action now )) "Kethra, engage the Dark Priest to your right, but don't charge! Be careful to stay out of that stone giant's reach!" Kyoji calls out. Kethra turns her head to Kyoji for a moment and nods. The young monk moves towards the priest but is careful not to get within the stone giant's reach. She makes it to the priest and strikes, hoping to quickly end this.
((Moving towards the priest...
She is in the square on the priest's left and out of the giant's reach. She also attacks...
1d20 + 7 - 14 rolled - 21 total
If it hits...
1d8 + 2 - 7 rolled - 9 damage))

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Sat Dec 10, 2005 9:12 pm
"Laika, charge that centaur on the left before he can charge you!" Kyoji also orders.

Posted by: Kyosokun Sun Dec 11, 2005 4:25 am
"<Jock strap>, with me to engage the Cleric with Kethra! We'll engage the centaur as well after. Acacia, stay back and engage the Stone behemoth. Fight defensively, tie it up, until more of our group come to your aide to take the construct down.
With those orders, Ryhir races off, seeming to step in time to some internal rhythem, and places himself between the Cleric and the Centaur, and strikes a Savage blow at the dark priest.
((Attack: 1d20(18) + 6 + 5 + 3 + 1 - 2 = 31 Threat
Confirmed with a 23 back up.
Dam: 2d6(1+6) + (5*2) + (3*2) + 1d6(4) + 2d6(3+4) = 34 total >_>
Cleric ~barely~ still standing. Take it down, Bolt.
Dance check on his way over: 1d20(4) + 10 = 14
AC: 22, 23 v Centaur
Note, I'm calling Bolt's char by his actual name, I just can't be bothered to remember it or look it up every time I need to type it. Hence why it is in <>))

Posted by: White Rose Sun Dec 11, 2005 6:11 am
Acacia gives a swift nod and engages the stoney foe to the right. Her opponent was larger than her and formidable indeed. All she had to do was stay on the defensive and focus and help would soon be there. Unfortunately, her focus on the defensive doesn't bode well for her, causing her attack to be ineffective.
((Attack: 1d20(3)+11+1=15.
Yeah, I figure I miss. Just wanted to play the adding game.
Activating EXPERTISE, dropping 5 from the above and INSURING I miss.
Oh, and uh, Dodge to this puppy. ^_^ If I'm forgetting something, TELL ME.
AC: 20+5=25))

Posted by: Knight_019 Sun Dec 11, 2005 6:38 am
*Merkass, having graciously accepted a potion of Cat's Grace from Faralon before the battle, takes a step back to remove himself from immediate danger, and assesses the current situation. Merkass notes a distinct lack of undead minions in the battlefield, even though there had been a rather large concentration of destroyed undead bodies in the area prior to this one. He is also aware that the enemies were worn down from Deanna's assault, but at the current time he is only able to determine the Northern mage's status. While it appears to be only minorly wounded, Merkass knew that it needed to be neutralized. Drawing a dragonsbreath arrow and a serpentstongue arrow, Merkass fires one quickly after the other. The Dragonsbreath arrow screams through the air and ignites in a flash as it sticks into the mage's flesh, followed soon thereafter by the serpentstongue arrow, sticking more centrally into the core of the mage's body. The mage's robes begin to set ablaze, but quickly it pats the flames out before they can spread. Hissing under his breath at the mage's fortune, Merkass thought, "There's always next time..."*
: They're all living creatures!
((Spot check
1d20 + 13 - 1 = 19 + 12 = 31.
5' back, unless I can hit from 5' diagonal back-left (I don't beleive I have that shot).
Rapid Shot
1d20 + 18 - 2 - 1 = 10 + 15 = 25.
1d20 + 15 = 15 + 15 = 30.
Damage (Not sure if the -1 applies to damage or not)
1d6 + 5 + 1 (fire) = 2 + 5 + 1 = 7 + 1.
1d8 + 5 = 4 + 5 = 9.
16 (14?) + 1 (fire) damage.
Mage passes DC 15 reflex save))
*While his place was as a healer, Aurik's place is not on the front lines. Moving to a position where he could reach his allies, but be out of the way of enemy fire, Aurik unleashed a spell which could hopefully disable some of their artillery support. His holy symbol held in front of him, Aurik recited a short mantra, and the archer in front of the priest by the sorcerer began to feel its muscles slowly tighten. Its body seemed to becoming rigid.*
((Move 2 spaces South of Van.
Hold Person cast on leftmost of the two archers in the center by the sorcerer.
DC 15 will save or be paralyzed for 9 rounds. If the save fails, a new save can be attempted each round on its turn. Breaking free of the paralysis is a full-round action. The subject is considered helpless.
Dodge declared on the non-paralyzed archer to its right. If I'm correct it won't have LoS. If that's actually the case, I pick whoever attempts to attack him first, since it doesn't look like anyone really has LoS to him aside from the meleers nearby, who are blocked anyway.))

Posted by: Nightmare Sun Dec 11, 2005 7:37 am
Nodding to Kyoki's orders, Laika takes off towards the centaur, taking it out before it could charge him, like others had done to him on the rooftop to the chaos cult's breeding ground of filth. The wolfman makes a mighty swipe with his claw at the dark knight, but misses his mark... by a fairly large amount.
((Initiative: D20 + 4 = 17
Claw: D20 + 11 = 13.... -_-...))

Posted by: Wandering Dezorian Sun Dec 11, 2005 8:33 pm
Err, do I take it that Brand found a way in, since he's on the map?

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Sun Dec 11, 2005 8:35 pm

QUOTE (Wandering Dezorian @ Sun Dec 11, 2005 8:33 pm)
Err, do I take it that Brand found a way in, since he's on the map?

((I thought you had dropped the flying in idea and were following the group?))

Posted by: Wandering Dezorian Sun Dec 11, 2005 9:13 pm

QUOTE (Wandering Dezorian @ Tue Dec 06, 2005 10:32 am)
Seach check: 17(1d20) + 1 (I think...?) I'll edit it once I get back home and look up my search skill.

Here's my search check for the rooftop, but it's all right. To save confusion, he'll be in with the team.
Brand levels up!
HP +7 + 2(con?)
Brand gets some skill points I'll distribute later!
Brand gets his second favored enemy (Undead +4 bonus, Aberration +2 bonus)
Brand can fly all he wants!
---
Brand moves to engage the nearby Golem. Strikes and harries were nice, but the first thing was to ensure that the team's spellcasters were safe.
Action: 5' step nw, quickdraw double bladed sword.
Full attack, attacking defensively, not using lightning bolt if my spell head hits.
Attack 1 (+1 head): 18 + 7 + 2 (str) + 1 (ench) -1 (2 weap) -4 (def) = 23
Attack 2 (+1 head): 14 + 2 + 2 (str) + 1 (ench) -1 (2 weap) -4 (def) = 14
Offhand (Spell head): 12 + 7 + 2 (str) + 1 (masterwork) -1 (2 weap) -4 (def) = 17
With defensive fighting, AC is currently 22.

Posted by: GE Silver Dragon Sun Dec 11, 2005 10:52 pm
((Ya know...ya can always refer to him as Joku, if it's really so much of a bother for ya to use his full name. I assume that's not too hard to remember...but anyways...when nearing the chamber in which the group now fights, Joku used Divine Vigor in preparation for the upcoming battle. +10' movement and +6 temp HP for 3 minutes, or 30 rounds. Thus, he has a total of 33 HP entering battle and can move 40' as normal run speed. 3 points left in his bonus feat pool. If this course of action is disagreed with, let me know.))
In compliance with Ryhir's commands, Jokulligr breaks into a sprint towards the priest, and upon the completion of Ryhir's devestating strikes, lashes out at the staggering priest with a swift swipe from each of his claws.
((Attack roll: 1d20 + 5 = 16 + 5 = 21
Damage roll: 1d6 + 5 = 4 + 5 = 9))

Posted by: Dark Maiden Mon Dec 12, 2005 12:01 am
((I'm not quite sure if you know this, but Flurry of Blows is a full attack which is a full round action. You can only take a 5' step and still use a full attack))

Posted by: GE Silver Dragon Mon Dec 12, 2005 12:48 am
((It is? Odd...I didn't see that anywhere in the description...but very well. Editting to fix))

Posted by: FreedomJu Mon Dec 12, 2005 3:48 am
((To tired to try to decide what the hell to have Van do.... and since Knight looked over the RP and says that everyone has enough RP to be level 7 no matter what.... here is the level up. WHoever wants to take Van's combat action, do so. Name: Van Akei
Race: Human
Class: Fighter
Alignment: Neutral Good
EXP: 20,895
Size: Medium
Age: 29
Gender: Male
Height: 5'9"
Weight: 162
Eyes: Brown
Hair: Dirty blonde
Skin: Light tan
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
HP: 75
AC: 17
INIT: 4
FORT: 9
REF: 6
WILL: 5
Base Attack Bonus: +7/2
HD: d10
Base Movement: 30
== Abilities ==
STR: 21 (+5)
DEX: 18 (+4)
CON: 18 (+4)
INT: 15(+3)
WIS: 14 (+3)
CHA: 13 (+2)
== Skills ==
Jump (8)
Craft (8)
Intimidate (9)
== Feats ==
Dodge
Power Attack
Cleave
Mobility
Spring Attack
Combat Expertise
Combat Reflexes
Improved Trip
== Languages ==
(O) Common
(0) Giant
== Spells ==
== Weapons ==
Phasing Guisarme of the Heavens +3 Enemy deals half damage for 1d4 rounds after being struck, DC 25 Will to negate, +4 to all ability scores.
== Armor ==
+1 Chain Mail
== Shield ==
== Natural ==
== Inventory ==
Lamp
Tent
Waterskin
3 chunks of cheese
3 chunks of meat
Backpack
1 potions of CSW
208 GP
6 SP

Posted by: Rusty Mon Dec 12, 2005 4:13 am
((Okay, I'll take a quick action for Van before I have to go.)) *Van moves up to attack the Golem closest to him.* ((Attacking the Golem in the lower right. Roll to hit...Natural 19 + 15? = Yeah. That's a hit. Damage: (3 + 1) + 5 (STR) + 3 (magic?) = 12 damage.
Enemy deals half damage for 1d4 rounds after being struck, DC 25 Will to negate...I'm not sure if that applies to Golems or not.
If he can attack again, he rolls a 7...+15, I dunno if that's a hit. If it is...
Damage: (2 + 1) + 5 (STR) + 3 (magic?) = 11. And the that thing again, maybe.))

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Mon Dec 12, 2005 8:54 am
Castor's blaze rains down at the foe, causing horrible burns, but most notably causing a critical malfunction to occur in the tank of the mad gnome tinker guarding the central stairs. The tank's ammo stockpile detonates, ripping the tank to shreds and blasting all those within 15' with shrapnel. The Dark Mage and Priest are sent flying through the air by the combined explosions, their bodies now lumps of charred meat.
((Blaze 3: 54 damage to all except the left affected centaur, who takes 27. Tank explosion: 17 damage. 8 damage to everyone but the mage and priest. Dark Mage and Dark Priest die!))
Kethra charges up the Dark Priest and socks him across the jaw, as Ryhir dances over to slash open the same clergyman's chest.
Seeing his first target already dead, Merkass aims instead at the wounded second archer, killing the man swiftly.
Aurik's spell holds the archer in a vise grip, making him unable to act!
Acacia moves to attack, but as she does so, she leaves herself open for a devastating attack that leaves her reeling, as the golem backhands her with its mighty fist.
((Critical hit. 35 damage total to Acacia.))
Laika evades an attack by the Stone Golem, but not the Dark Knight as he closes in.
((Miss. Hit! 6 damage to Laika.))
Joku runs up and uppercuts the Dark Priest, sending the wounded unholyman reeling.
Though several of his attacks come close to hitting, Brand doesn't take the risk of extending himself the extra few inches, in order to maintain a better defense.
Van deals little damage with his attack, but his magical weapon causes the golem's fists to become oddly wavy, like an optical illusion.
((1 damage dealt after DR. Golem deals half damage for next 3 rounds.))
Kyoji, already invisible, charges the centaur knight to the right without fear of reprisal, appearing to drive his dagger into the soldier's neck, then vanishing.
((Hit. 26 damage to Dark Knight.))
The Golem attacking Acacia misses twice, but the golem assaulting Brand strikes true despite the birdman's caution.
((Miss, miss. Hit, hit! 42 damage to Brand.))
The two stone fists slam together, unfortunately with Brand in the middle of them.
Both the knight attacked by Laika and the one that attacked Ryhir completely miss.
One of the knights charges Merkass, Van and Acacia attempting to intercept.
((AoOs. Hit for Van. Acacia misses. Van deals 11 damage and the Dark Knight is dealing half damage for 2 rounds.)
The knight still manages to break through and hit Merkass, but the strike is far less damaging, thanks to Van's magical weapon.
((Hit! 36 damage/2(nerfed) 18 damage to Merkass!))
The remaining knights charge, but fail to strike anything due to their wounds and horrid luck.
((1, 2. **** you AIM. **** you... Confirm Crit Miss: 19... *shakes head*))
The two Clay Golems move up, but do nothing else.
The archers let loose a volley of arrows at Kethra, Castor, and Laika. Each one dodges one, but is hit by the other.
((4 damage to Kethra, 8 to Castor, 8 to Laika.))
The minotaur in the back stomps calmly up to Kethra and uses his superior reach to slash at her with his huge axe.
((Hit. 20 damage to Kethra.))
The Cornugons swoop down next to the fallen bodies of Jaha and Stock, but take no further action yet.
The two Chimeras launch themselves into the air, each flying twenty feet up. They fly closer, but take no further action.
A small tank manned by a crazed gnome... A Brass Loader moves forward and fires its main gun at Castor. The shell explodes painfully in the minotaur's side.
((Hit. 24 damage to Castor.))
The horrible worm-monster leans its fat carcass over and swallows the body of Claude whole.
One of the "Blue Dragons", actually mutated White dragons, flies up to blast Ryhir, Kyoji, and Jokulligr with a blast of ice. Jokulligr is not damaged in the slightest by this attack, and Kyoji managed to dodge mostly out of the way. Ryhir does the same.
((Ref save made. 11 damage to Kyoji and Ryhir.))
Laika is also beset by one of the man-sized dragons, but he manages to dodge the creature's ill-executed charge.
((Miss.))
The two Dark Priests near the stairs murmur evil chants. Ryhir feels his vision stripped from him as Van is able to stave off the effects.
((Ryhir is blinded.))
The Dark Priest near Ryhir murmurs dire curses and moves to touch Jokulligr, but the monk easily evades the priest's grasp. The priest curses vehemently as the spell is wasted. ((Bestow Curse defensively cast. Touch Attack missed.))
The last remaining Dark Mage throws 3 red darts of light at Kethra with a single shout.
((Magic Missle on Kethra. 10 damage.))
The green haired sorceror chuckles as he begins to intone darkly. Black rubbery tentacles erupt from the ground and begin to wrap around all those present.
((Evard's Black Tentacles. Everyone in the space has to make a grapple check or be grappled. The DCs are 30 for Van, 20 for Brand, 25 for Merkass, 33 for Aurik, 19 for Asathel, and 34 for Acacia. The left Clay Golem and the two Knights attacking Aurik and Merkass both fail and are grappled.))
2 more rounds until the rest of the Force arrives.

Posted by: Dark Maiden Mon Dec 12, 2005 6:05 pm
Kethra is bothered little by the arrow and by the magic missiles, but the minotaur's axe cleaving deeply into her side draws a shrill "AHH!" from her lips. Her vision blurs for a brief second, and then she turns to Kyoji. "We...we need to do something about that Minotaur, or it's going to chop us all to bits... Damn...I hope the others get here soon..." Keeping with the orders she had been given, the young monk strikes the dark priest twice. The first blow fails to connect, but the second hits.
((Flurry of Blows
1d20 + 6 - 4 rolled - 10 total. Miss
1d20 + 6 - 18 rolled - 24 total. Hit
1d8 + 2 - 2 rolled - 4 damage
Pfeh -_-))

Posted by: GE Silver Dragon Mon Dec 12, 2005 6:43 pm
Using nimble footwork to evade the Priest's grasp, Jokulligr promptly attempts another uppercut on the dark being, whom apparently learned from the last hit and managed to evade, but this doesn't phase the monk in the slightest as he temporarily places his weight onto one foot and brings the other up in an arc, this time easily landing the blow upon the cleric. Returning to normal stance after the strike, he glances at the minotaur mentioned by Kethra. "That is indeed a formidable opponent capable of much damage...it'd probably be wise to take it down as soon as possible."
((Flurry of Blows used, without error this time I would hope.
Attack 1: 1d20 + 5 = 8 + 5 = 13 Something tells me that's a miss
Attack 2: 1d20 + 5 = 19 + 5 = 24 Hit
Damage 2: 1d6 + 5 = 4 + 5 = 9 damage
If the hit happens to take down the wounded Dark Priest, Joku shall take a 5' step to the space the cleric once occupied))

Posted by: Aldur Mon Dec 12, 2005 8:46 pm
Amelios runs after his companions.

Posted by: FreedomJu Mon Dec 12, 2005 8:47 pm
Van is grappled and takes some damage. (5)

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Mon Dec 12, 2005 8:51 pm
As Amelios and the others run to catch up, an invisible blast of light barely misses Gates. : "What the..." Gates mumbles. : "It's that skeleton again! The one that killed Chester!" Slade hisses as he looks around. :
"You go on ahead, help your friends. We'll hunt 'em down and keep him off your backs here," Gates says, hefting his axe and looking around the ruined hall.

Posted by: Arcdragnbreth Tue Dec 13, 2005 6:46 am
"Damnit... let... go!" Ashathel said, swiftly slipping free of the grasping tentacles, before moving clear of them. Drawing another arrow as he moved, he stopped and once more pegged the dark cleric who went after Jokulligr with a well-placed shot. "Get free of the tentacles as swiftly as you can, then take out the archers and spellcasters!"
Damnit... I don't want to lead the fight, but between the tentacles and the spellcasters, we'll be in major trouble, the swashbuckler thought, quickly scanning the battlefield as he looked over his enemies and racked his brain for knowledge of what the group was fighting.
((Knowlege [Arcana] - Golem: 1d20 + 5 = 13
Knowlege [Arcana] - Chimera: 1d20 + 5 = 23
Knowlege [Arcana] - Blue Dragon: 1d20 + 5 = 10
Knowlege [Arcana] - Cornugon: 1d20 + 5 = 9
Knowlege [Arcana] - Massive Worm: 1d20 + 5 = 25))
Mostly distracted by the raging battle, Ashathel failed to note much of great import. That which he did remember, however, he announced to the group as loudly as he could.
"Watch for the multiheaded monsters; they're Chimeras, and these have fiery breath attacks! And no matter what you do, stay as far from the worm beast as you possibly can!"
Damnit... that... that thing looks like an Ulgurstasta, but it's too different to say what it can and cannot do. Although... at least now I know what's been going on lately...
((Arrow at the archer in the lower right corner, then move 4 squares right and one square up.
Attack: 1d20 + 5 (bab) + 6 (dex) + 3 (boots) + 1 (bow) = 30
Damage: 1d6 + 3 (str) + 3 (boots) = 11
[o] Dex + 4, effective AC 21
== Spells ==
Lvl. 0: Ray of Frost, Ray of Frost, Magic Missile, Magic Missile
Lvl. 1: Orb of Electricity, Orb of Electricity
Lvl. 2: Charged Bolt))

Posted by: Nightmare Tue Dec 13, 2005 7:30 am
As the lance and arrow connect, the wolfman let's out a howl and let's out his aggresion on the centaur. ((Laika is now enraged for 8 turns. STR 26 (+8) and CON 21 (+5), AC 21, HP 52/66 Attack: Claw1: D20 + 13 = 18 + 13 = 30
Claw2: D20 + 13 = 14 + 13 = 26
Bite: D20 + 6 = 11 + 6 = 17
Damage:
Claw1: D8 + D6 + 8 = 1 + 4 +8 = 13
Claw2: D8 + D6 + 8 = 5 + 1 +8 = 14
Bite: D6 + 4 = 2 + 4 = 6))

Posted by: Wandering Dezorian Tue Dec 13, 2005 4:53 pm
Ref save 9 + 9 = 18 *sigh* Brand squawks as the stone hands try their best to crush the life out of him, then struggles against the twisting things suddenly ensnaring him. "A little help here?" he calls out. First action: Grapple check to break free: 12 + 7 (bab) + 2 (str) = 21
If I break free, I'll use my remaining action to move 5' straight up (Woot for hovering!) and ready my tower shield. (Provokes no attack of opportunity.)
If not, I'll make another grapple check. 7 + 9 = 16.

Posted by: Knight_019 Wed Dec 14, 2005 2:31 am
*Merkass, with a sudden twist of his body, breaks free of the tentacle as it squirms powerfully, but too late, to stop him from wriggling free. In a few quick pounces, Merkass moves past the tentacle field. Thankfully free from those abominations, Merkass goes on the defensive and looks for a good shot.*
((Grapple check: nat 20.
Opposed Grapple: 19 + mods))
*Aurik, however, is far from being so lucky. While he wrestles the tentacle gripping him into an awkward position for it, before he can get away, it snaps back around and grabs around him again. Asking Volcanon for aid, Aurik hopes to wrest himself from its grasp.*
((Grapple Check: 17 + mods
Opposed Grapple: 17 + higher mods. Curse you, Marine!))
~~~
Elsewhere...
*Rhizor drops down from his meditative position hanging from the rafters. Watching as Zook continues to tinker away at his robot, Rhizor sighs. A machinst and a druid together. There was much to b done, however, and Rhizor needed the tinker's aid. Approaching the Gnome, Rhizor presented him with a proposition. Too much was going on in the world for them to simply sit around and wait. The others could fend for themselves. They had bigger fish to fry. In his somewhat shriek-like bat voice, Rhizor inquisitioned Zook.*
: Zook. Come, I must speak with you.

Posted by: Arcdragnbreth Wed Dec 14, 2005 5:08 am
((*cough*orbcancastdispelmagic3/day*cough* ))

Posted by: Wandering Dezorian Wed Dec 14, 2005 5:48 am
((Which orb? The lighting orb?))

Posted by: Rusty Wed Dec 14, 2005 5:52 am
((YES! We have no other orbs, to my knowledge.))

Posted by: Wandering Dezorian Wed Dec 14, 2005 6:01 am
... And I missed that entirely. OK, ignore my previous post. Instead... Brand let loose an agonized squawk as the twin stone hands descended on him, nearly crushing the life out of him. The birdman struggled back to his feet, only to realize that something had latched onto them. Glancing down, Brand saw the swirling tentacles engulfing half the team.
'I hate magic.' Brand thought, struggling against the tentacles to brush his hand against the orb, then brushing his hand against the orb of lightning. 'Lets see how it reacts to this...'
Actions: Use orb to cast dispel magic, focused against the black-tentacles spell. Note that activating a magic item does not provoke an attack of opportunity. Whee!
Assuming that he is now free, he will use his move action to ready his shield and fly 5' up.

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Wed Dec 14, 2005 7:33 am
Rhizor's voice jerked Zook out of his machinist's reverie. Waving a hand to the other tinkers, who looked up when he did, he said, "Keep at it." The gnome's mind was still not fully anchored in reality as he followed out of the others' earshot. "How can I help you?"

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Wed Dec 14, 2005 7:56 am
The two Cornugons pick up their cargo of corpses and fly back to the worm abomination's side, dumping their load onto the floor in front of it. The abomination, for its part, swallows whole the corpse of Shriek. The archer under the influence of Aurik's spell manages to break free after a prolonged struggle, as his fellow to the right takes another arrow in the side.
Brand twists and turns, but cannot break free.
The combined assaults of Kethra and Jokulligr break the bones and body of the Dark Priest, sending him lifeless to the ground.
Kyoji appears from thin air, jamming his short blade into the Dark Knight before him's hindquarters. The Dark Knight almost falls, but manages to steady himself.
Castor stomps forward and hacks twice at the Blue Dragon attacking Laika, as the wolfman slashes into the Dark Knight.
((Hit, Hit. 41 total damage to the Blue Dragon.))
Castor is suddenly struck by another explosion as the distant Brass Loader fires a second time. Then the Stone Golem in front of him slams a fist into his face.
((Hit. 22 damage to Castor. Hit. 24 damage to Castor.))
Acacia manages to skillfully dodge a blow from each of the golems attacking her, but each manages to strike her once.
((Hit. 11 damage to Acacia. Hit. 12 damage.))
Remembering his orb, Brand dispels the enchanment binding the black tentacles to this world. The appendages vanish in a flash of light.
The Dark Archers unleash another volley of arrows into the party. An arrow grazes Acacia and Laika, and one buries itself into Castor.
((3 damage to Acacia. 7 damage to Castor. 2 damage to Laika.))
The Blue Dragon attacking Laika lunges forward, snapping off a piece of wolfman flesh in each of its three jaws.
((Hit, Hit, Hit, Miss, Miss. 18 damage total to Laika.))
The other dragon does the same to Ryhir, lunging forward and missing with its claws, but managing to bite viciously with each of its 3 jaws.
((Hit, Hit, Hit, Miss, Miss. 27 damage total to Laika.))
The Minotaur stomps forward and brings it's greataxe down on Kethra, but the agile monk ducks under the blow and delivers an uppercut to the beast. The minotaur howls and swipes at her again, but Kethra gracefully somersaults out of the way.
((Miss, Critical Miss. CounterAttack: Hit. 9 damage.))
The Chimera behind the minotaur clumsily flies over its horned compatriot and breathes a cone of fire at Ryhir, Jokulligr, Kyoji, and the Dark Knight near him.
((12 damage to the Dark Knight. Ryhir, Joku and Kyoji saved for 6 damage. Joku has Evasion and takes no damage.Dark Knight dies.))
The Dark Knight screams in agony as one of his allies roasts him alive, proving once again the old adage: "Friendly fire isn't friendly at all."
The other Chimera lashes out at Laika, but its first attack causes it to fumble a bit, causing its other attacks to fall short off the mark.
((Critical Miss: Multiattack fails.))
The two Dark Priests attempt to call down a curse on Kethra and Laika, but their prayers go unheeded.
The Dark Mage, heedless of his ally in the way, casts a lightning bolt that strikes at Asathel, Jokulligr, and Kethra. ((30 damage. Asathel and the minotaur save for 15 damage. Kethra evades.))
The Sorceror gestures, dismissively, and 4 bolts of light streak from his hand to slam into Brand.
((12 damage to Brand from Magic Missle.))
1 more round until the rest of the Force arrives.
Next turn!

Posted by: Dark Maiden Wed Dec 14, 2005 2:44 pm
Kethra smirks and strikes at one of the nearby foes <whatever Kyoji orders her to attack>, with a spinning back kick and then an uppercut as a follow up. ((Since I only need a 5' to get to any of the foes near us, Flurry of Blows time Attack 1: 1d20 + 6 - 6 rolled - 12 total. Miss
Attack 2: 1d20 + 6 - 17 rolled - 23 total. Possible hit, depending on the target
Damage: 1d8 + 2 - 3 rolled - 5 damage total
Bleh...-_-))

Posted by: Knight_019 Wed Dec 14, 2005 5:49 pm
((Merkass' attacks should hit, given that he has http://magic19.homestead.com/files/roll12142005.jpg. However, I need to think about a target, since everyone forgot rule 1: The healer dies, you all die. Aurik's surrounded, and while I'd like to finish off one of the big meanies, like a Chimera or Minotaur, I may be plugging away at the centaurs so Aurik can use a healing ward.
Just keep that in mind next time
If I might make a suggestion: Van takes 5' step left and attacks the lower centaur. I'll plug the other one with 2 arrows. Aurik moves up past Van, now unimpeded and uses a healing ward (no AoO for magic item activation), and everyone from Laika over to Kyoji gets healed, excluding Ryhir and Kethra. Sorry, this is the largest number of characters I can heal. Ryhir and Kethra should be ok, though, if both of you use your brains over there. Ryhir's in a good position to do a lot of damage, but I won't say more))

Posted by: Wandering Dezorian Wed Dec 14, 2005 6:28 pm
I would really appreciate that, seeing as how I'm at -2 Hp now.

Posted by: Dark Maiden Wed Dec 14, 2005 8:01 pm
((Bring it up with the squad leaders… The rest of us are just doing what we’re told. The rest of the force arrive next round anyway and will gladly back Aurik up ))

Posted by: Kyosokun Thu Dec 15, 2005 3:10 am
((Heh, kinda hard to give orders blinded. I'm flailing, trying to do some damage, and keep myself alive. I'm doing a bang up job ~_~)) Ryhir lets out a growl of Frustration as he continues to flail at the source of his pain, the Dragon. "Thrice damned acursed BLINDNESS!" He says, swinging hard at the Dragon.
((Attack1: 1d20(20) + 13 = 33 Threat
Confirm: 1d20(13) + 13 = 26 (assuming Crit, will edit otherwise)
Miss chance: 17. Hit!
Dam: 2d6(5+6) + 10 + 6 + 2d6(2 + 5)cold = 27reg and 7 cold dam
Attack 2: 1d20(5) + 9 = 14... Miss, I assume
Attack 3: 1d20(18) + 8 = 26. Threat
Confirm: 1d20(17) + 8 = 25. (assuming Crit, will edit otherwise)
Miss Chance: 62... Damnit.
I suppose that's that, folks))

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