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Posted by: the tall guy Sat Jun 10, 2006 4:37 am
Go.

Posted by: Kaihaku Sat Jun 10, 2006 4:37 am
My silence was my security. The cries of the tortured fell upon my ears as if I were deaf. I turned my eyes from the sights of slaughter. Perfume surrounded me until I could almost imagine that the stench no longer reached my nose. I was safe. I did nothing as one by one they were lead away. Finally, in the end, only I remained. When they came for me, I cried for help but they were no longer any to hear me...
The world is wreathed in darkness and strife, the hearts of its people turned to wicked deeds and vile cowardice. Like the last smoldering embers of a once great flame, heroes of legend fade into mere specters of their former selves and perish, forgotten, in the shadows. Once the last and best hopes of their homelands, the revered Shining Forces have fallen one by one, member by member, into the strife that threatens to consume all...
Yet, the world is not completely forsaken and bereft of hope. From the lands of Cypress there comes rumor of light...
Shining Force The Chaos War
Gaiden II
The Expeditionary Force of Cypress
It began with the disappearance of the Crowned Prince of Cypress, Nick the Valiant , a swordsman of legendary status in his own right and commander of the Cypress Shining Force. Accompanied by loyal knights and comrades, he set out on a quest to rid his fair land from monstrous raids. With him traveled many of his most powerful warriors, yet all vanished mysteriously as if they had fallen off the edge of the world. Once a cherished companion of the Shining Force, the Archwizardess Yeesha assembled an expedition to seek out the lost Prince and return him to the throne ere anarchy tore the land asunder.
Who were they that answered the call of the Archwizardess?
There was Amelios Adelhyde, healer and follower of Mitula, possessing a soul both kind and gentle yet one secretly enflamed with passion. Also there were the Faesaen brothers, performers and journeyman. Ashathel, the older, was skilled in blade and spell but also possessed a cold logic and resolve. Faralon, the younger, could inspire others to great feats but was consumed with his own self-importance. Among them was also Merkass of the catfolk, an archer and scout of great skill. There was a quiet and studious magician by the name of Isyndel Rhoe'wyn who had little concern for ought by the pursuit of her art. Aurik Sentol, a man with a troubled part who in Volcanon had found simplicity of mind was also one of their number. Towering above the others there was Castor, the Minotaur, whose mighty body hid a surprisingly creative soul. There was also a quiet and distracted tinker of immense skill by the name of Zook Jimbeddo Bollynock Frenkalter Steamwhistle Aleslosh. Once a warrior and now a merchant, there was Brand, whose fierce cunning frightened all. Powerful in rage, there was the wolfman Laika who yearned to find more meaning in life. Damas Heretic was also one of those summoned, his sorcery only matched by his moody and irritable nature. There was the simple but courageous half-giant Gabriel and the skilled but cowardly birdman Elias Soarwing. Also there was Rhizor Eyeclone, a being of nature who often lost himself in beholding it but who at times could be stirred from his observation in order to aid others. Overwhelmed at the world beyond her monastery, there was the mousey and shy half-elf, Kethra Stormwind. Kyoji the Ninja was another addition to the expedition, his skill at stealth and assassination unique to the group. Social and kind, there was Ryhir the warrior whose courage matched any in the expedition and who in combat possessed skill and mobility unlike any other. Finally, there was Cedric Theodoric of the hammer, a calm and confident holy knight whose faith guided him to undertake the expedition.
Their quest took them across three continents...Cypress, Hapon, and Rune. At every step in their journey they were faced with foes and horrors. The living dead, zombies of the innocent slaughtered and harvested for an undying army. Pirates and knaves who, without regard for the dark times, sought to slay their fellow beings for riches. The Drowned Eye, heroes of the ancient world twisted into a corruption of their former selves and armed with the weapons beyond anything the expedition had beheld. The Chaos Cult, a dark organization comprised of traitors and thralls to the Strife Lords. Twisted beings from other realms and times. Fiends from the depths of the abyss and the furnaces of hell. The Vandals, dark Gods which seek domination over all that lives. The Strife Lord Shailtor, who took delight in their torment and pressed them to the verge of insanity.
Yet, there also came across allies on their quest. There was Van Akei who joined their number, a depressed and solemn man whose loyalty to his village impressed all. Though they arrived too late to save her, there was the oracle Dava who gave her dying words in guidance to them. There was the merchant lord Derrik Swiftjoke who provided them guidance in difficult times and a steady means of equipping themselves, but also who was a constant meddler and poor flirt. In the depths of a dark tower, they discovered two prisoners who still had enough life in them to wish to oppose the Chaos Cult. Acacia, a powerful swordswoman and newly widowed wife, whose wrath was beyond compare. Jokulligr, a quiet and withdrawn dragonman who swore off material possessions and relied on his own immense power in the dark times. A confident and skilled archer named Rachel became one of their number, putting her keen eyes and mind to their cause. There were the scattered survivors of the Cypress Shining Force who journeyed among them for a time, aiding in their rescue of the Prince. Finally, there was Lilah, a being from another realm brought into this one by a magical mishap during the destruction of an crystal pillar.
The cost of their opposition to the Strife Lords was high. Kyoji lost both his only sister and his mentor to the Chaos War. The innermost secrets and demons of the expedition members were openly taunted and manipulated. Countless innocents were slaughtered and turned to evil. Gabriel was discovered to be a manufactured being whose memories were false and who was used as a unwilling spy on the expedition. Amelios Adelhyde, consumed with passionate rage, was manipulated into being a thrall of Shailtor and turning against his former allies. Cedric Theodoric watched helplessly as his sister was made to kill his mother before him. In a valiant effort to preserve the life of another, the archer Rachel was viciously slain. The stubborn refusal of Van Akei to turn upon his allies resulted in the destruction of the village he loved. The pet mouse and familiar of Damas Heretic was smashed by Shailtor's own hand.
Yet, in the end, they emerged triumphed. Shattering the plans of Shailtor to corrupt them into thralls of his will, the expedition earned the title of Shining Force. In the final confrontation, Cedric Theodoric of the Hammer did lay a grievous blow upon the Strife Lord and put the Archfiend to flight. Prince Nick was rescued moments before he was made a thrall and returned to Cypress.
The expeditionary force did not waver. The struggle against the Strife Lords was now a personal one. Vengeance or Justice, their resolve was equally fierce as they set out to oppose the Chaos Cult in the continent of Rune. However, they encountered two unexpected allies. Lisa, a mysterious sword maiden with incredible knowledge and Sulia Adelhyde, the wife of the traitor Amelios, who, a holy knight of the Light, just happened to come across them shortly after her husband's betrayal. Guided by a ominous dream, they set out to find the Beloved of the Light and instead found a hunted young woman by the name of Simone. She told them of her own dreams and guided by them, they set out for Parmecia.
They were changed forever by the struggle. Ashathel Faesaen has manifested into a great swordsman, yet his joy at learning and jolly nature has diminished. Faralon Faesaen has matured and come into his own as the backbone of the expedition, his inspiration enabling the others to overcome when they otherwise would have failed. Merkass has become an unparalleled bowman and hunter of evil. Isyndel Rhoe'wyn has slowly warmed to others in the expedition and is finding her place in the world as a person. Aurik Sentol has increased in skill and wrath. In place of the paintbrush, Castor has taken up a legendary axe with which he has slain many a dark foe. Zook Jimbeddo Bollynock Frenkalter Steamwhistle Aleslosh has constructed a magnificent suit of battle armor, disabled many a device of the enemy, and baked scones on occasion. Laika has found meaning in service to Volcanon and his power has only increased. Damas Heretic has begun to deal with his dark past and has slowly become more sociable and open with the others. Gabriel faces the difficult struggle of rebuilding a life that never existed, the only thing of which he is certain is that the Strife Lords will pay for what they have done to him. Elias Soarwing has returned to Cypress with the Prince, no longer taking part in such a dangerous expedition. Rhizor Eyeclone now finds the motivation to war against the Chaos Cult instead of examining flowers, as they have slain some of his favorite reptiles. Kethra Stormwind has shown her forgiveness to Faralon and her wrath to the Strife Lords. Ryhir, once out going, has become ever more withdrawn over the course the struggle yet his blade still sounds in battle. Acacia and Van have left to seek out the fate of his village. Jokulligr remains, lending his strength to the oncoming battles. Sulia Adelhyde allows her hair to blow in the wind freely. The Lillend Lilah journeys with the expedition, learning of their world and aiding them in their fight against evil, as well as giving their heavy hearts relief in dark times. Finally, Cedric Theodoric has changed into a man driven by all of his being to destroy the Strife Lords; beyond faith, love, and hatred he strives to remove their blight from the world.
...
It is a dark night, shrouded by thick clouds the moon hangs heavily in the sky above. A distant shadow on the water, the form of the submarine wavers in the unsteady light. The four metal rowboats drift slowly to the shore nearly silently, each carrying it's full complement of equipment and persons. In the dim light, the powerful form of Cedric Theodoric stands grimly before steping over the edge and droping into the water, now only inches deep. He takes a few steps forward, his hammer secured over the cloak which hangs limply on his back. His eyes are eager, haunted, hungry as he turns back to the others speaking in a low voice, "Wyvern, secure the area. Leviathan, Phoenix set up camp here." A slight predatory smile crosses his lips, "From Nemesis, I want Kyoji and Merkass to scout out Hassan. The rest of you continue ferrying equipment from the vessel once you've completed your tasks."
Standing silently atop the distant submarine, the keen eyes of Lilah watch the landing with a frown, she turns her head and whispers quietly to Simone, "They hath now landed..."
...
-Squads-
Leviathan
Leader: Zook
Aurik, Kethra, Laika, Kanmeshi, Castor
Wyvern
Leader: Ashathel
Brand, Jokulligr, Sulia, Gabriel, Ryhir
Phoenix
Leader: Faralon
Rhizor, Isyndel, Damas
Nemesis
Lilah, Kyoji, Merkass
----
Who puts alternate dimensions inside trees? Idiots! Unless their fairies and I'm pretty sure fairies didn't do this stupid thing. ~Little Brother while playing Majora's Mask

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Sat Jun 10, 2006 8:30 am
"I know," Simone says with a frown. "I see them..." ---------- "Cedric, the town appears to be damaged, but intact. There is no sign of the enemy, but though some remain, large portions of the town seem to be deserted," Kyoji reports after scouting the area.

Posted by: Kaihaku Sat Jun 10, 2006 6:49 pm
In the time since the scouts departed and returned, the expedition has completely departed from the submarine. The last boat rests at the shore, waiting to be returned to the vessel. Theodoric crosses his arms, looking out over the land with a heavy frown, "Wyvern will make camp in Hassan tonight..." The Holy Knight turns to Ashathel, "While there, try to find out what you can about the cult's activities in the area. Tomorrow, the remainder of us will join you outside of town and plan our next course of action. Keep quiet about our past... Five people can pass for a wandering band of mercenaries, the twenty of us will raise some eyebrows and start some rumors." He turns to Kyoji, "Organize an hourly patrol of the surrounding area, two scouts per patrol. I'm assigning Brand, Merkass, and Lilah to your command for this objective." He turns to Zook, "I want at least two sentries from Leviathan to watch over the main camp. I think we've escaped the eye of the Strife Lords, let's try to keep it that way as long as possible."
Cedric turns to Simone, "I want you to stick close to Lady Yeesha or Lady Lilah at all times." He looks back over the water, "They should be able to keep you safe."

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Sat Jun 10, 2006 7:17 pm
((before the announcement)) Zook rubbed the back of his neck as his eyes swept the shoreline. His gaze fell upon Cedric, chilled and hardened by moonlight and war. The young gnome's face creased in a frown. So much had been lost already. So little damage was the sort repared with a wrench and blowtorch, or banadges and balm. These were scars that would persist long after the battle had ended.
He unslung his rifle and satchel in an open patch of ground, and laid his rolled-up sleeping tent beside it. He asked Laika and Castor to take many more of them in their powerful arms and spread them over the site. A few more quietly given requests (Zook, recently made a Knight of Cypress and commander of the Leviathan force, still recoiled inwardly from the thought of giving orders) and everyone under his charge was at work as Cedric directed.
Zook found himself at the paladin's side, standing just outside of the dim but unwavering shadow he cast in the moonlight.
"It is dark," he said, looking out over the camp bustling to life before turning his weary face up to his leader. "Will we see the dawn in our lifetime?"
((after the announcements))
Zook nods curtly. "Alrighty. Kethra and myself will take first watch, to be replaced in two hours by Laika and Kanmeshi. Aurik and Castor will take third shift."

Posted by: DragonmasterDon1 Sun Jun 11, 2006 3:00 am
And in solace, ashes... The silence was broken in a chorus of crackles and a cacophony of screams. She took one breath. It scorched in her throat; ash clung to her lungs. She opened her eyes. Radiant flickers of light assaulted her senses. She reached out for her familiar. Her reply fought her sensations of heat and warmth with icy silence, the feelings waging an epic war over her nervous system.
She wretched. The bile lurched from her and onto her dress.
Brodaleaf burned. Living residents soon became dead before her, their skin burning and melting unceremoniously as they clutched themselves before her. Cries of pain, cries of agony, cries ceased only when voices were immolated by flame.
In center of it all, she stood, abandoned and helpless, watching it all. Watching her childhood and adulthood burn before her, watching everything she held dear burn before her. Her family, her home. The library she spent so much time in.
And then she burned. Breathlessly, the flames crept to her boots, catching the tail end of the lavender gown she wore. A smile crept over her face, a sensation of irony overwhelming her, leaving her only capable of laughter.
The flames crossed her knees, racing up her thigh like the hand of an eager boy. They crossed her hips, her waist, her bust.
She watched as the flames crossed her breasts, waited as the flames took to the ends of her hair. She craned her neck, her muscles tightening, waves of lust overtaking her. She moaned, a wail, caustic to the ears and deprived of oxygen. She no longer needed to watch, the flames were in her eyes.
The silence was broken by the gentle creeking of a ship idling in the ocean waves.
She took one breath. Cool sea air was her reply; the sensation tickled her nose.
She opened her eyes. Only darkness remained; glimmers of moonlight tracing through.
She reached out. Sleet was there, sleeping.
She cried, choking her whimpers to near silence.
Days later, she stood with her unit. Admittedly the woman knew precious little of most of them excluding one whom perhaps she knew more than she wished of, or perhaps not enough. Isyndel Rhoe'wyn knew their names, their personalities, their abilities, but for the life of her she knew precious little beyond that. There would be time, she had begun hoping, to acclimate herself further to those nearby.
She thought she was helping the Sorceror. And maybe, just maybe, she had it backwards all along.
When the designations were finished, the woman, surrounded by her immediate companions, could easily be heard speaking to those around her.
"It is not that I blame him or cannot understand why," she spoke softly, "but that man has changed."
((And yes, I really need to shrink that picture))

Posted by: Kaihaku Sun Jun 11, 2006 4:06 am
Lilah frowns slightly as she is assigned to serve under Kyoji, "I... I see..." She looks at Cedric for a long moment, then sighs, "I ought to have expected this, traveling in a military expedition." Crossing her arms, the beautiful creature waits for a Kyoji to give his commands.

Posted by: Knight_019 Sun Jun 11, 2006 6:43 am
: It shall be done. *Merkass wasted no time getting off the submarine. He disliked the cramped quarters and the lumbering nature of the vessel. Immediately upon landfall he made a quick survey of the area. It was desolate... quiet and empty. He smelled the air. No longer was it fresh and clean. It smelled foul, terrible. Amidst the smell of burning and wreckage, Merkass smelled something worse. The lingering stench of evil remained. If it were to be this way, then so be it. Merkass took off quickly and with great drive to scour the area. Any signs of life, survivors, or clues as to what had been here, where they had gone, how many, it was all important.*
((Spot: 21
Listen: 28
Take 20 on Tracking and Searching
Search: 39
Survival: 37))

Posted by: Arcdragnbreth Sun Jun 11, 2006 7:43 am
"You all heard the man," Ashathel said, withdrawing his bow. "Anything ugly moves, yell first then keep it busy. Don't attack anything on your own unless it swings first." Gabriel nodded, withdrawing the greatsword as he moved swiftly. Eyes scanned the darkness, picking out the forms of whatever animals could be seen in the dim of the night; ears stood on end, picking up every sound he could make out.
((Ash: Spot 4, Listen 21
Gabe: Spot 17, Listen 19, readied action to swing at whatever gets too close.))

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Sun Jun 11, 2006 8:09 am
: "This stopped being a military expedition a while ago, if it ever truly was one," Kyoji says. "I know you chafe under orders, I'm somewhat similar. Do not worry, I'll be giving a large degree of freedom to everyone. I..." Merkass promptly scurries off, unable to take being in the stuffy submarine any longer.
: "Not quite that much freedom... Brand, go after him, I suppose you two have the first patrol. Lilah and I will take second," Kyoji says. "Each patrol has a flier and a ground unit this way, giving us more diversity... Lilah, when we do our patrol, it might be best if you go invisible, as I believe it difficult to sneak in the air. You do have the spell, yes? Other than that, simply keep your eyes open. Anything you wish to say or add?"
As Kyoji discusses the patrol tactics with Lilah, Lisa approaches Cedric.
: "I will be waiting with the camp, then, and speaking with Simone unless you have a better task for me."
-------------
Wyvern team is able to sweep the town thoroughly, though their weapons drawn, ultra cautious approach draws a few odd stares from the few townspeople that pass by. It's obvious the place was attacked recently, but that seems to be over with now. Defenses are being hastily rebuilt, and there seem to be no hostiles in sight.
Merkass finds the same is true of the surrounding area, his patrol is uneventful.

Posted by: Nightmare Sun Jun 11, 2006 4:07 pm
Laika was pleased with the new assignment of groups. He now had both Kanmeshi and Aurik with him, now speaking with them would be much easier. The wolfman waits in the new camp that he had just helped set up until it is his turn to relieve Zook and Kethra.
((Spot: 10 + 8 = 18
Listen: 15 + 10 = 25))

Posted by: Knight_019 Sun Jun 11, 2006 6:17 pm
*Merkass continues his stealthy investigation of the area, surprised he is unable to uncover anything even with the obviousness of the attack. He slinks back to where the groups had been, finding them already engaged in their own activities. He waits until he can find either Kyoji or Cedric so that he can report back to them.*
((Hide: 21
MS: 32))
*Aurik looks over the town and lowers his head. He shakes it disappointedly. These events were all over the world, apparently, and it disheartened him. He closed his eyes and thought a prayer to himself. Volcanon would watch over them in these times, and he would grant them the strength to overcome all trials. While he was not on duty yet, his job was never finished. If there were wounded to attend, he would be there. For part of the first watch Aurik scours the area, looking for any who might be in need of healing. He then rests to prepare for the watch to come and the new day ahead.*
((Heal: 26
Listen: 9
Spot: 26))

Posted by: Kaihaku Mon Jun 12, 2006 2:50 pm
((Assuming the night passes without event...)) The following morning, Cedric gathers the expedition and has them wait a short distance from the town for Wyvern to report in. The Paladin seems impatient and rather eager to be on the move.

Posted by: Arcdragnbreth Mon Jun 12, 2006 3:41 pm
"Morning, all," Ashathed said, twirling the flute in his hands. Gabriel simply nodded, still silent after the events of the past few days - though no more silent than the other members of Wyvern who will likely not post that they arrived with Ash.

Posted by: Aldur Mon Jun 12, 2006 3:50 pm
Sulia frowned, looking at Asathael and delicately cleared her throat. "Um, Sir Asathael, mayhap you should tell Sir Cedric about our patrol?"

Posted by: Kaihaku Mon Jun 12, 2006 4:04 pm
The Paladin crosses his arms, looking at Ashathel grimly, "Yes, what did you learn of the cult's doings?" Lilah yawns slightly.

Posted by: Arcdragnbreth Mon Jun 12, 2006 4:48 pm
"They've been here, that's for sure," the elf said. "Or something else that has the audacity to attack the town, but most anything that bold is either part of the Cult or soon will be. They're getting tighter defenses up now, too."

Posted by: Kaihaku Mon Jun 12, 2006 5:40 pm
Cedric sighs heavily, disappointment evident on his face, "There were no rumors among the townspeople as to the status of the contitent?" With a heavy frown, the Paladin looks out over the landscape, "...and you were unable to discover the details of the assualt?" He looks at Ashathel, "It gladens my heart that the town is taking actions to defend itself in these dark times but I was hoping for information that would help accomplish our own goals."
Cedric frowns thoughtfully, "Very well... Faralon, I want you and Brand to map out a path that will take us to this...hidden village near the mountain ruins." He looks into the distance, "Preferably one that takes us through a few villages were we might learn more of our enemies' activities." He looks back to the group, "Also, I want Simone disguised at all times. I don't want anyone coming after her for the bounty." He nods, "We depart in an hour, prepares yourselves as needed."
Lilah sighs and looks at Simone, "A disguise? I fear that my magic is ill suited to such a task."

Posted by: Dark Maiden Mon Jun 12, 2006 8:00 pm
The sounds of battle raging on, and the smell of blood overwhelms his senses. He rises and then slowly opens his eyes. Warriors on both sides fight hard, and he stands in the midst of it all. Then, everything around him fades away, his gaze falling upon Shailtor. The sadistic and cruel strife lord lifts up his hand, allowing Damas a glimpse of his familiar. The white rat looks at him, her brown eyes shimmering. If the sorcerer didn't know better, it looks as is she is crying. He moves forward and pain shoots through his body. His body is ravaged with burns, and when he takes a breath, that hurts as well. Shailtor merely laughs and clenches his hand into a fist, crushing the rat and killing her instantly. He stands stiff, feeling abandoned, weak, and helpless. Why had someone not tried to help her? Were they too busy, or was she not a priority? No, it was...his fault. That is what he truly feels. He was too weak, too powerless to save her. The tears find their way to his eyes, and he cries out in anguish. He no longer cared about anything. A part of him even wished he could join her. Then...
Damas bolts up into a sitting position, his eyes wide and a cold sweat clinging to his body. The sorcerer shivers slightly and looks around, seeing a few of his companions sleeping nearby. A single tear falls from each of his eyes, and he sighs.
"Why can't I stop having nightmares about that?"
Damas looks up at the ceiling, remembering what Isyndel said to him after slapping him in the face.
You are insufferable! Have you learned nothing on this damnable, wretched journey? Whether you desire it or not, your life and your problems do affect other people though you choose not to see it. I am beyond fatigued with your behavior. Gird yourself, stop hiding and stop pointing your blame inward all the time as if you are the only person who has a problem!
Then, he remembers Li's words before she finally went to the world beyond, and his own reply.
Don't torment yourself over my death... You were a good master and I enjoyed my time with you... Just...promise me you won't wallow in self pity.
I promise.
"I promised Li and Isyndel that I wouldn't blame myself anymore. I can't disappoint them."
Damas lays down and pulls the covers over his head, falling back to sleep.
A few days later, they finally reach the shore of Hassan. Damas helps wherever he can, removing belongings and other cargo from the boats. He helps set up camp as well. After he is finished, the sorcerer joins his companions in Phoenix again.
"Well, if I am no longer needed, I'll head off to bed. Goodnight."
Damas hears Isyndel's words, but he does not say anything. Instead, he looks at her and gives her a caring smile before heading off to bed.
The next day, he wakes up with the others. Damas looks at Cedric and shakes his head.
"My magic is ill suited for the task as well."

Posted by: Rusty Mon Jun 12, 2006 9:10 pm
*Faralon nods.* : "Understood. As for Simone, perhaps Yeesha has a spell or two that can be of use. Anyway, let's go, Brand." *He just has to send me with Brand, doesn't he? He's the one person here I do not get along well with at all.* *They exit to complete their task.*
---
((Check total = 21.))
*Faralon later returns with Brand in tow.*
: "We found a good route - but there are not many towns nearby. Frankly, there's Hassan and the hidden village we talked about before, and that is all."

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Mon Jun 12, 2006 9:22 pm
Zook shrugs. "There are some Ancient ruins, to the north, near Ribble. One of them's supposed to be a portal to Grans Island."

Posted by: Kaihaku Mon Jun 12, 2006 9:26 pm
Cedric sighs, "I would prefer to know the movements of our enemies before embarking..." He looks down with a frown, "...but if that's impossible..." He shakes his head.

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Mon Jun 12, 2006 9:33 pm
Zook rubs his hands together, mentally grasping at straws. "A spell maybe? Yeesha or Isyndel might have some divination handy."

Posted by: Kaihaku Wed Jun 14, 2006 11:52 am
Cedric turns to Yeesha and Isyndel, "Well?"

Posted by: DragonmasterDon1 Wed Jun 14, 2006 3:14 pm
"At the moment, I'm afraid the contents of my spellbook contain nothing of use. If I were to obtain a scroll of a spell capable of such there is no doubt I could learn it; however I cannot do so in the time limit you require." There was nothing to be done about that, but she bit her lip in frustration anyway, visibly upset at her inability to use the magic necessary.

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Thu Jun 15, 2006 7:32 am
"I have a few spells that would do something, but none of them are memorized right now..." Yeesha says. "As for Simone, I have no illusions on hand." Kyoji wordlessly hands Simone a large, hooded cloak, before turning to Cedric. "Magic isn't the only means of hiding someone. Casting an illusion might make her more conspicuous anyhow, if they have a means to detect magic."

Posted by: Kaihaku Thu Jun 15, 2006 11:39 am
Lilah sighs, "I thought that in thy world, it was commonplace for one to have spells active on one's self." She shakes her head. Cedric frowns, "I don't care how she's diguised, just keep her disguised." He looks out over the land, "Prepare a divination spell for tomorrow then, we leave today on the route Brand and Faralon laid out. I want full scouts, same patrols as last night." The Paladin nods.
The group prepares itself then sets out.

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Thu Jun 15, 2006 4:05 pm
In silence he labors, day and night. The last steps had been taken on the submarine, with Kokichi. ADAM gleamed with its new mithril chassis, half the weight of its old body. Opposite the chaingun was mounted the Silence's rifle. The air around the combat armor hummed and crackled, the residual sound of its new force field. The battered salvaged circuit board had been replaced by the enigmatic spherical reactor, which made no sound, and emitted no light, but provided power an order of magnitude greater than before. ADAM was lighter, stronger, faster; it was ready.
Yet, even now, Zook can barely allow himself to think about the bundle wrapped in canvas currently stowed in ADAM's storage bin.
one day prep
four day install
two day calibration
one week testing
and space need space
two weeks and open sky is all I need
soon now so soon
In silence he labors, day and night. The last steps had been taken. There remained only one final great leap.

Posted by: Kaihaku Sun Jun 18, 2006 12:45 pm
Prepared, the group sets off following the path laid out by Faralon and Brand.

Posted by: DragonmasterDon1 Mon Jun 19, 2006 12:37 am
((If at all possible I really would like those spells from the old spellbook from ages ago...what they do and stuff, if Isyndel can use them. I'm going to hold off on selecting my spell list a bit longer in hopes of seeing what they are and what they do.
Edit: Thanks Marine.
Level 0 - 4 = 4 - Resistance, Light, Mage Hand, Read Magic
Level 1 - 4 (+1) = 5 - Mage Armor, Protection from Evil, Magic Missile, Magic Missile, Ray of Enfeeblement
Level 2 - 4 (+1) = 5 - Acid Arrow, Scorching Ray, Web, Flaming Sphere, Invisibility
Level 3 - 4 (+1) = 5 - Dispel Magic, Dispel Magic, Freeze 2, Bolt, Haste
Level 4 - 3 (+1) = 4 - Scorching Ray (Maximized), Ice Storm, Freeze 3, Dimension Door
Level 5 - 2 = 2 - Blaze 4, Energy Shield
Level 6 - 1 (+1) = 2 - Disintegrate, Cat's Grace (mass)
Ring of Minor Spell Storing: Haste))

Posted by: Rusty Mon Jun 19, 2006 2:27 am
((These are the spells Don is asking about: he needs some info on them if possible. [At the very least, what spell level, you know?] Spell book: (Necromantic spells: Poison Nova, Teeth of the Dark Dragon, Poison Explosion, Iron Maiden, and Bone Armor. Lightning spells: Charged Bolt, Energy Shield, Nova, Static Field and Thunder Storm)
Yeah.))

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Wed Jun 21, 2006 5:23 am
The minature army sets out across the burning desert, the wasteland sands a foreign experience for nearly everyone... Only the scout Ryhir possess memories of life in such a harsh environment. The sun beats down harshly on everyone, the heat made nearly unbearable to those in armor, lessened to a quiet suffering if one is without armor or in the shade.
Covered in protective metal that acts as an oven in the hot sun, Cedric finds sweat rolling off him even as Zook finds himself in the same place as his scones often do... baking inside a large metal contraption. Zook finds himself thinking of the Ancient's technology and how it was used in some places to control temperature... He finds himself longing for the good old days...
Aurik marches forward, his heavy armor having the same effect as Cedric. In the back of his mind, Aurik wonders if this burning heat and insufferable warmth was something close to what his deity's phoenixes felt when they reincarnated. He is able to steel himself with the thought of how his god flies in flame without injury, but after a while such thinking of Volcanon only makes things worse... It's so HOT.
Yeesha rides in the wagon, which she has cleverly cooled with a few cantrips, making it very pleasant inside. The archmage and Simone chat happily, enjoying the cold air within as they discuss the matter of dreams and visions.
Lisa marches on, no sign of discomfort on her face and no sweat pouring from her despite her heavy armor and many coverings.
And so the group journeys on.
------
Hardly a day went by before it happened.
Scouting ahead, Kyoji and Lilah traverse the dunes with ease, one aided by long hours of training and special talent, the other with the gift of wings. Kyoji climbs to the top of a dune while Lilah flies overhead when both notice something in the distance... In the air, a group of figures flies toward the scouts.
((350' away.))

Posted by: Dark Maiden Wed Jun 21, 2006 7:19 pm
((Heh, I find it funny that Yeesha and Simone are in the wagon while the rest of us die from heat Oh well, at least my characters do not wear armor, so they can be fairly happy compared to those in armor. I'll post later after I get some questions answered))

Posted by: Aldur Wed Jun 21, 2006 8:24 pm
Sulia frowned, she was somewhat used to harsh conditions, and her peculiar heritage made her a little more resilient against the elements. She looked around at her comrades, wondering how they could wear such heavy armour. The human smiled to herself, glad to be wearing less.
"Ah, the toils of life in Service to the light..."
She speaks hardly above a whisper, a cheery smile on her face.

Posted by: Knight_019 Thu Jun 22, 2006 2:43 am
((Looks like a certain DM forgot they stole Aurik's armor as a plot device ))

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Thu Jun 22, 2006 6:28 am

QUOTE (Knight_019 @ Thu Jun 22, 2006 2:43 am)
((Looks like a certain DM forgot they stole Aurik's armor as a plot device ))

((Didn't you get replacement armor?))

Posted by: Rusty Thu Jun 22, 2006 5:35 pm
((Btw, since this was never posted, I'll post this now. Remember that Kraken battle? If you didn't get EXP, add 189, because that's how much we got for it. And 100 XP from the Bandit Battle.))

Posted by: Knight_019 Sat Jun 24, 2006 2:40 am
((There was talk between Brand and Derrik about saving Aurik's armor by trading a ring instead (I think it was a ring of invisibility). I never saw any final word on it, because Brand kept beating around the bush. If it happened, he has it. If not, he doesn't.
Aurik
Spot: 11 + 13 = 24
Listen: 1 + 5 = 6
Merkass
Spot: 18 + 17 = 35
Listen: 18 + 17 = 35
Bonuses of +1 if they're evil or +3 if undead))

Posted by: DragonmasterDon1 Sat Jun 24, 2006 11:29 pm
Isyndel groaned as the sun bore down on her pale skin. The heat was nigh intolerable to her; beads of perspiration trickled her form as they continued to walk. The woman was not bereft of sympathy however, noting that several of her companions were dressed far more heavily than she or were covered with fur and hair that could only make it more the miserable for them as they walked.
She groaned in mock agony, wiping the sweat from her brow. With very few places to hide, Sleet walked close by her in the broad light, ears pinned back as she hovered protectively near the drifts of Isyndel's skirts. Teth'in was noticeably absent; a sign of much relief.
Despite her somewhat overdramatic appearing misery, the woman studied her surroundings carefully as they continued on.
(( Discerning her general location, checking for any signs of familiar wildlife, possible changes in the weather. I seriously seriously doubt she can see the scouts, let alone what's flying toward them but I'm including it on her general checks to learn about the area anyway.
Nature 8 + 9 + 4 = 21
Geography 18 + 8 + 4 = 30
Spot 3 +2 + 1 = 6
Listen 18 + 2 + 1 = 21))

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Sat Jun 24, 2006 11:33 pm
Isyndel can guess the group is about a quarter of the way through the desert, skirting along the narrow path between the mountains and the sands where it's not quite as hot as the deep desert.

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Mon Jun 26, 2006 5:17 am
Zook continues to work, sweat rolling off of him. He is oblivious to the world outside the armor, to the coming battle.

Posted by: Dark Maiden Mon Jun 26, 2006 7:06 pm
Damas takes a deep breath, wincing as the hot air burns his throat slightly. The sorcerer lifts his water skin to his lips and takes a drink of the water within. He was trying to conserve what water he did have, for he is sure that such a thing is scarce in this place. He looks around at the others, and he knew that he could not complain, for there were others far worse off than him. Damas' clothes were quite light compared to some of the others in the group. His shirt is a very light blue with a dark blue stripe down the middle of his shirt and around the collar. There are also dark blue stripes on the sleeves of his shirt, around the wrists. On the upper left of the garment are some designs in a sort of aqua color. His pants are also light blue, with dark blue stripes at the bottom. His boots and the dark blue cloak over his shoulders look to be the heaviest and darkest things that he is wearing. Damas wipes the sweat from his brow, and some stray locks of his raven black hair out of his eyes. His hair hangs over his shoulder, tied about half way down with a dark blue ribbon of some sort. A wispy vapor surrounds him as he walks, providing a little bit of relief from the heat.
Kethra sighs as she walks along, probably one of the ones that is affected the least by the heat. Still, it is far hotter than she is used to. She is wearing a blue mandarin style shirt, white pants, and flats shoes. The colors of her clothes are light, so she doesn't hold in as much heat as she would normally. Her gaze wanders to the others every so often.

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Tue Jun 27, 2006 1:16 am
The main group is currently stopped at an oasis while the scouts patrol. As the group drinks the refreshing water and enjoys the rare shade, their peace is all too shortly lived. Running at top speed towards the camp is Kyoji, flying above him Lilah. Behind them and gaining are a small flight of Devils!

Posted by: DragonmasterDon1 Tue Jun 27, 2006 1:45 am
"What in the..." the woman spoke under her breath. Wasting no time, she quickly began the process of weaving magic about her, calling on the unseen forces around her and within. With a few words and motions, she released the energy about her, surging it through several of her companions.
"We must provide assistance of some sort, and quickly!"
(( Isyndel casts Haste. Castor, Laika, Cedric, Joketiger, Kethra, Zook, Ashathel, Sulia, Faralon, Gabe, Rhizor receive the effects of Haste.
Kno (Arcana) = 21
))

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Tue Jun 27, 2006 4:07 am
Zook continued to work, oblivious, until he noticed he was suddenly working a lot faster. He pokes his head out of the armor, and sees the devils. "Mother of hell," he curses, as he slides into his armor's cockpit and gears it up. ((Coolness Under Fire used. UTD check autopassed
Delaying action until more buffs are up))

Posted by: Dark Maiden Tue Jun 27, 2006 5:19 pm
"Son of a-" Damas cuts himself short, not wishing to finish what he was about to say. Having found his attack spells fairly useless against devils in the past, he decides not to attack. Instead, he touches Kethra on the shoulder and casts a spell.
|Damas casts Cat's Grace on Kethra, giving her +4 DEX for 11 minutes
Kethra is also holding her action for now|

Posted by: Aldur Tue Jun 27, 2006 5:28 pm
Sulia swiftly takes out her mace and raises it high, the servant of the light becoming Radiant as she seemed to take on a divine glow. "Forward my Comrades! We must assist our friends in their time of need. May the Light be with you all and lead you to victory!"
((Moves forwards 25ft straight ahead. Cast Visage of the Deity lesser. +10 Resistance to Acid, Cold and Elec.))

Posted by: DarkFox Tue Jun 27, 2006 11:59 pm
Mr. Yiffers and I kill the Pit Fiend.

Posted by: Cyrus Wed Jun 28, 2006 9:13 am
Castor grimaced at the approaching strike force, letting a large handful of water slip back into the glistening pool. It was always one thing or another these days, wasn't it? Hadn't even been out of that sinking coffin the inventor called a "submarine" for a week, and here they were, dying of dehydration in the desert and getting ambushed by devils...or were they demons this time? He didn't know the difference, and he really didn't care to. What he did know is that they were much too high for him to chop them to pieces, and since they're...infernal, the axe's magic probably wouldn't scratch them. Then there was his bow...yeah, best not to think about that. "Well, gods damnit," Castor muttered under his breath before turning to the rest of the group, "Does anyone have anything that grants flight? A potion or a spell or anything?"
[Joining the procrastinators with their 'delayed actions'.]

Posted by: Rusty Wed Jun 28, 2006 10:15 am
((BK, GO! 18: Cornugon 23: Pit Fiend)) : "There's no escape...heh. Phoenix, ironically enough we should using fire at all costs. Most spells might be negated by these devils' superb resistance. If you think you have any ways around that, then by all means please go that route. Be careful...These are some of the most dangerous of devils. If by some miracle you do get by their resistance to spells, try to use electricity or sonics."
*Faralon, finished with orders for the moment, begins to sing, drawing his bow.*
((Translation: If you have anything that ignores SR, go with that. I'm talking about Orbs. Orbs of Electricity, Force and Sound would work best from the orbs. The only one that would have a chance at passing the Pit Fiend's SR is Isyndel, and that's a SLIGHT chance.
So yeah, I'll spare you guys some lyrics. Faralon is going to start his Bardic Music. +3 morale bonus to attack and damage, and +3 to fear and charm effects, too, IIRC.))
*Kanmeshi raises his arms to the heavens.*
Kanmeshi: "Volcanon, grant us your aid!"
((Kanmeshi will use Elation.))

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Wed Jun 28, 2006 5:43 pm
Zook, hearing Castor's call, rummages around in his satchel and comes up with a small vial filled with golden liquid. "Here!" he calls, tossing it to the minotaur." ((Ranged touch on Castor: nat 20. Should be an autocatch.))

Posted by: Nightmare Wed Jun 28, 2006 9:34 pm
((Okay, because I'm an idiot, and forgot to mention this before. Laika has Bull's Strength, Magic Weapon and whatever Cure [blank] Wounds that comes as a level one spell for him prepared. He'll cast Bull's Strength this turn. And I have no idea how long it lasts and all that good stuff, due to not having accessto my books and character sheet.))

Posted by: Cyrus Thu Jun 29, 2006 12:25 am
Castor, nodding his thanks to the gnome, catches the bottle before uncorking it and guzzling the potion in a single gulp. He then rises into the air, dropping the vial as he unsteathes his axe. [Drink potion, fly 60' in the air.]

Posted by: Kaihaku Sun Jul 02, 2006 5:55 pm
Lilah sails forward swiftly, twirling around as she reaches the water and hovering steadily, "Slay the vile fiends!" She activates the blade she now carries and spins it around elegantly in her hands. Cedric frowns deeply, his eyes heavy with anger, "Form a defensive line here at the oasis." He draws his weapon, "Prepare to flank. Don't let a single one escape." He raises his voice, "Kyoji! Lead them to use!"
[Prepared Action: Move and Attack first to enter range.]

Posted by: Knight_019 Sun Jul 09, 2006 5:21 am
*Aurik, fearing that they may be in over their heads, calls the blessing of Volcanon upon his allies to shield them from harm.* ((Divine Protection on everybody.))

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Sun Jul 09, 2006 6:03 am
Time seems to work in slow motion as Isyndel's powerful haste spell comes into effect. Sulia finds she can't move as far as she'd like, the shifting sands difficult to move through. Even as Elation stirs the souls of those present, the bard's tunes rouse their spirits.
Lisa steps forward, a look of hate on her face as she touches one hand to her sword, which glows softly. She gestures with her other hand, speaking words in an ancient tongue. Three blazing columns of blue white light envelop the devils, which shriek in pain as the light burns their unnatural flesh.
((Unknown Spell. SR defeated. 49 damage to Pit Fiend, Cornugon, and Cornugon 2.))
The Devils fly forward, the Pit Fiend careful to avoid the Lillend's extra reach. Suddenly a palpable aura of icy fear surrounds the arch devil. Kyoji's will, strong as it is, falters. He drops his swords and blindly runs in the opposite direction as Lilah does the same.
The Cornugons cackle as fire swirls around their forms and slams into the amassed army around the oasis. Lisa screams in pain as she takes the full brunt of the blast.
((2 Fireballs manage to hit all of you once, spaced correctly... One ball for the left, one fireball for the right. Everyone make a Ref save or take 43 fire damage. DC 19. Lisa fails.))
An unholy aura surrounds the devils as the Pit Fiend begins to belly laugh.
((Unholy Aura on all foes.))
Next turn!

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Sun Jul 09, 2006 6:23 am
Zook banks the armor hard right, his reflexes leaving the tinker and his vehicle unscathed. His eyes narrow as a robotic appendage extends, allowing Zook to sight along the barrel of the Silence's rifle. The ancient weapon makes no sound as it fires, a shimmering beam of concentrated energy penetrating the hide of a Cornugon.
((Save passed. Move 20' right, 20' forward, fire at nearest Cornugon.
Hit, 22 Damage))

Posted by: Cyrus Sun Jul 09, 2006 7:15 am
Castor grits his teeth as the flames wash over him, searing his flesh and singing his fur. He then charges the Pit Fiend, hoping to provide a distraction for the two scouts to escape...though they were moving in the wrong direction. Apparently, distraction is all he can hope for, as every assault met with only air.
[Charge the Pit Fiend, PA 4. Nothing even remotely came close to hitting its AC.]

Posted by: Dark Maiden Sun Jul 09, 2006 8:00 am
|Reflex saves: 21 (15 + 6), and 21 (6 + 15). Both succeed| Damas is able to move out of the way and avoid the full brunt of the flames. The sorcerer still finds himself burned pretty badly, though it is not as bad as it could have been. "What do I do?" Damas asks himself. "Damned devils."
Kethra, as agile as she is, is able to avoid the flames.

Posted by: Rusty Sun Jul 09, 2006 9:21 am
*Faralon advances towards the devils, focusing an Orb of Sound on the same Cornugon that Zook struck.* : "These are very powerful devils! Don't let them hit us with another Fireball like that, spread out, but don't let yourselves get isolated! Phoenix, their magic resistance is superb! If you have any spells that can get by that, use them!"
((Translation: Use spells that avoid SR if possible. There's no chance you're passing that Pit Fiend's SR, unless you're Isyndel, and even then you'd need to roll stupidly high.))
*Taking a full blast from the Fireball, Kanmeshi casts a spell to protect himself and all allies
((Roll to save vs. that fireball...Natural 14 = pass big time. 21 damage, then?
Faralon moves up as far as he needs to and casts Orb of Sound on the same Cornugon Zook just hit.
Roll to hit: Natural 15. After bonuses, I'm more than certain that hits.
Damage: 2 1 1 4 3 1 3 2 2 1 = 20.
FORT save DC 20 or be deafened. *Snickers*
and Kanmeshi tosses up a Mass Resist Energy (Fire). Himself and 8 others within' 30' will be protected from Fire damage. Given Kanmeshi is on the map, I don't even know who he can affect here. Where is the birdman?
Kanmeshi also fails his save.))

Posted by: Arcdragnbreth Sun Jul 09, 2006 11:01 am
((Enlarge Person cast on Gabriel last round.)) "Is it me, or have they actually gotten uglier since the last battle?" Ash asked, pulling the force blade free as he raised a hand. "Doesn't matter, I guess, so long as they go down. Now, to facilitate such a thing..."
Even as his words trailed off, a burst of magic hit the same Cornugon Zook struck like a sledgehammer, threatening to knock the demon out of the air.
((Blast of Force, aimed at the same Cornugon Zook and Faralon attack
Attack: 1d20 +9 (bab) +4 (dex) +3 (greaves) = 30
Damage: 4d6 = 18, Fort Save DC 16 or fall prone))
His hands gripping his greatsword tightly, gabriel awaited the opportunity to rend the monsters bearing down on them.
((Readied action: initiate rage and attack anything that comes within range.))

Posted by: Kaihaku Sun Jul 09, 2006 12:52 pm
[Reflex Saves : Withstand : 15 + 21 = 36 | 9 + 21 = 30 : Ring of Evasion] As the flames erupt around him, Cedric makes no attempt to physical avoid them. Instead, he merely takes in a deep breath and narrows his eyes. A soft aura of light surrounds him, warding off the fire and protecting him completely.
The Paladin speaks sacred words and moves his in a certain manner, wisps of life force flow from his body to his hammer.
[Divine Sacrifice: Cedric takes 10 damage]
Cedric then narrows his eyes once more and his frame seems to grows mightier as energy comes into being around him.
[6 + 21 = 27]
[Power Surge: +8 STR / Four Rounds]
"Be on your guard! They have the abilities to infuse one with terror!" Cedric cries out, "Clerics, ward us against such devilry!"

Posted by: Aldur Sun Jul 09, 2006 1:28 pm
Sulia raises her mace once more, holy flames appearing and smiting at the Cornugon ahead of her. Her eyes blaze as she realises this'll be a hard fight. ((Flamestrike: 3 6 3 2 3 4 6 4 2 2 2 = 37 damage. DC 20 Ref save. Save passed. 14 damage due to resistance. 25 on SR check...=( ))

Posted by: DragonmasterDon1 Sun Jul 09, 2006 9:59 pm
The woman panicked as the flames struck, the warm sensation somewhat familiar to her after their battle against Shailtor. The smell of burning flesh assailed her nostrils. Focusing, the wizardess began the workings of a spell that would not fit the description of Faralon's request. The very thought of it frustrated it to no end, and she made a mental note to expand her studies further as they continued, finding her latest learnings to be less useful than she had hoped.
She released a small bead from her finger then, sending it lancing toward the Cornugon and it's companion before allowing it to release into a burst of icy energy, taking care to not allow her companions to absorb the strike.
((Save passed. Freeze 2 cast, 20' radius, 10d6 cold. If I had something that ignored SR I'd be all for it.
Hallelujah: SR Roll: 19 + 11 (Caster Level) + 4 (Greater Spell Penetration) = 34
I know the Cornugon has Ice Resistance and I'm sure the Fiend does too, but here are the damage totals:
Cornugon: 4 3 5 6 6 3 6 4 5 1 = 43 (33, I think)
Pit Fiend: 4 5 3 5 1 3 3 5 4 1 = 34 (24, I think)
Regarding Lisa:
Spellcraft: 39
Kno(Arc): 26))

Posted by: Dark Maiden Sun Jul 09, 2006 11:50 pm
Damas begins to weave arcane symbols in the air, and speak words of power. A blue orb of energy appears in his hand and the throws it towards the Cornugon that his allies had been focusing their attacks on. |Lesser Orb of Cold cast. Ranged Touch: 19 + 8 = 27. Hit
Damage: 7 + 7 + 8 + 6 + 4 - 10 (Resistance) = 22 cold damage|

QUOTE
Kethra, as agile as she is, is able to avoid the flames.

|Edit, here. Kethra has imporved Evasion so she takes no damage|

Posted by: Nightmare Mon Jul 10, 2006 3:37 am
The werewolf manages to avoid a portion of the flames that had errupted around him, but unfourtunately not all of them. Laika then walks forewards a little ways, with his hands grasped infront of him, all the while muttering something to himself.
The champion then swiftly rips his hands apart as his gauntlets ignite.
((Ref save 13: 8 = 21 passed.
Move forewards 20', cast Magic Weapon on gauntlets.))

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Wed Jul 12, 2006 1:11 am
Zook finds, much as Sulia did, that movement is difficult in the shifting sands. Thus he is not able to proceed as far as he'd like. Kyoji and Lilah run clear off the map as Faralon's Orb of Sound jars the Cornugon, but does not cause it to lose its hearing.
The divine Flamestrike vanishes from existence the moment it touches the devils, failing to pierce their antimagic barriers.
Isyndel can deduce Lisa used some sort of conjuration spell, but it is not one she has ever heard of.
Isyndel's icy blast envelops the devils, bypassing their defenses and freezing their hides. However, the devils dodge and weave out of the way of most of the spell, and in the end it does little.
((All saves passed. 33/2= 16-10= 6 damage to Conugon2 and the Pit Fiend.))
Damas' spell strikes the Cornugon, which hisses in anger.
Lisa moves forward and whispers the words to a magical spell, the heavily armored woman suddenly rising up into the air.
((Fly cast.))
The two Cornugons fall back and cast lightning bolts into their foes, but all dodge save for Castor.
((Everyone passed their saves except Castor. Ashathel, Faralon, Isyndel, and Damas take 22 electrical damage. Kethra evades. Castor takes 44 damage.))
The Pit Fiend grins evilly as he notices Castor's axe, then vanishes without a trace.
Merkass and Brand will have arrived at the south edge by now.
Next turn!

Posted by: Aldur Wed Jul 12, 2006 2:06 am
Sulia frowned, muttering under her breath as the Pit Fiend disappeared, an odd light filling her eyes for a moment as she scanned about for the Pit Fiend, now able to see it. ((True Seeing Cast.))

Posted by: Knight_019 Wed Jul 12, 2006 2:32 am
((RETRO ACTION)) *The sight of Cornugons reminds Aurik of battles past. Without delay, the priest quickly brings to bare magic to ward the other element they seem to favor so much. Even as the flames wash over his body, he stands steadfast. His allies suddenly feel as though static has built up in their bodies, preventing more electricity from entering.*
((Reflex save: 1d20 + 7 + 1 + 1 = 2 + 9 = 11, fail.
Mass Resist Energy (Electricity)))
~~~
*The enemy was taking its toll on his allies, and now would be the time to handle it. Clasping his hands together and beginning to pray, and suddenly the burns and wounds begin to close and disappear. They also feel as though they have a bounce in their step and a guardian angel is about them, shielding them from further harm.*
((Domain Spell: Mass Cure Light Wounds
Empower Healing kicks in
(1d8+12)*1.5 = (5+12)*1.5 = 25 hp healed.
Healing Kicker (Reflex Saves) used. Gain +4 to reflex saves for 1 round.))
MAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAP

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Wed Jul 12, 2006 5:36 am
ADAM stands still in the shifting sands, but the armor's armaments are nimble as ever. Aiming along the barrel of the Silence's rifle once more, he concentrates, eyes narrowing, becoming perfectly blank and still the moment he fires. Another blast of energy tears into the Cornugon, the weapon as soundless as it's former master. A lesser shot fires immediately afterwards, but strikes true as well.
The power of both shots combined are more than the fiend can bear, and it erupts into glowing ash from the assault.
((Attack the Cornugon fired at last round
Auto-threat declared on Attack 1
Attack 1: 18(d20) + 8(BAB) + 5(DEX) + 1(size) + 1(Ioun Stone) + 3(Bardic Musc) + 5(Rifle) + 8(AP) = 18 + 31 = 49 (More accurately, a 41 vs the Cornugon's AC - 8)
Damage: (4d8+3) x 3 = 62 Damage. Fort Save vs Massive Damage, DC 15 (which a Cornugon would only fail on a natural 1 anyway so)
Attack 2: 14(d20) + 3(BAB) +5(DEX) + 1(size) + 1(Ioun Stone) + 3(Bardic Musc) + 5(Rifle) + 8(AP) = 14 + 26 = 40 (32 vs Cornugon's AC - 8)
Damage: (4d8+3) = 20 damage
All damage is UV Energy damage. Rifle ammo 3/6
That's one wasted Cornugon, folks))

Posted by: Arcdragnbreth Wed Jul 12, 2006 6:16 am
"Heh... invisibility," Ashathel said, smirking, as he began to cast a minor spell. "You should know by now I'm a pro at handling the invisible..." ((Detect Magic cast, as a continuous effect. Ash is using it to scan the area where the Pit Fiend was before. Next round, we're dropping a Glitterdust on the poor sap.))
Lvl 0: Magic Missile x2, Detect Magic
Lvl 1: Shield, Repair Light Damage, Protection from Evil
Lvl 2: Glitterdust, Blur, Blast of Force

Posted by: Dark Maiden Wed Jul 12, 2006 3:38 pm
"Annoying bastards," Damas curses in elven. The sorcerer begins to weave arcane symbols in the air with his fingers, and he speaks words of power. He uses the wand given to him some time ago in order to make the spell more effective. He points at the Cornugon and a bolt of lightning flies towards it. It strikes true, bypassing its magical protection.
|Bolt 2 cast. Primary bolt on the Cornugon.
SR roll: 28 (17 + 11)
Damage: 66 electrical damage
Wand of Lesser Metamagic used to maximize the spell. Damas will move back if possible, probably on the other side of the oasis where Joku is if he can|
Kethra moves forward to join the other and stays on the defense. Going forth to meet the devils head on alone would be foolish. It could mean her untimely and unnecessary demise. As such she waits with the others.
|Move 30 ft. forward and go on all out defense|

Posted by: Nightmare Wed Jul 19, 2006 12:51 am
Laika goes on the defensive.

Posted by: Rusty Wed Jul 19, 2006 8:23 am
: "We can't just stand here like this. Spread out so we're not subject to more spells like those!" ((Faralon's action: Move 3 spaces northwest and cast Orb of Sound on the remaining Cornugon. Roll to hit: Natural 6 + 7 [BAB] + 5 (Dex w/Elation) + I don't even remember what else is in effect, but it hits.
Damage: 2 3 4 3 3 4 3 1 2 1 2 = 28
FORT save DC 20 or be deafened.
Kanmeshi will fly north to capture as many allies and enemies in the radius as possible as he casts Recitation. +2 Luck bonus to attacks and saving throws for all within 60', +3 if they worship Volcanon. No save, but SR applies to enemies. I rolled a natural 19, +10 is his caster level, so that's 29 to overcome SR. Enemies that this affects suffer a -2 penalty to attacks and saving throws.))

Posted by: Critical Mass Thu Jul 20, 2006 7:36 am
Rhizor begins the process of unleashing a spell, but frowns as the pit fiend suddenly goes invisible. He hangs in the air, motionless, waiting for someone to do something about the spell before finishing his own. ((Arc of Lightning readied as soon as the fiend becomes targettable again. 10d6 elec damage to both enemies, ref DC 23 half, no SR.))

Posted by: Kaihaku Thu Jul 20, 2006 9:06 pm
Cedric mutters a curse, eyeing the sand with a frown before moving forward towards the enemy. [Full movement forward. Since I'm in full plate, I don't believe I can reach them in the sand.] [Readied attack action versus the first enemy to come close.]

Posted by: DragonmasterDon1 Thu Jul 20, 2006 10:08 pm
Nearly frenetic at the disappearance of the fiend, Isyndel analyzed the situation about them as her comrades began to move. Her eyes darted about for any traces of magic as she quickly went over the three options immediately present, begrudgingly accepting one and moving inward: protect herself, attempt to dispel the invisibility virtually blindly, or attack the now wounded Cornugon. The choice frustrated her clearly as she began the necessary movements required to invoke the magic of Freeze once again.
((Move two squares left of Faralon and cast Freeze 3 on the remaining Cornugon, using the Wand of Metamagic: Enpower.
SR: 12 + 11 (Level) + 4 (Both Spell Penetration) = 27
Damage: 50 x 1.5 = 75 before Resistance.))

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Thu Jul 20, 2006 10:24 pm
The Cornugon drops, simply not able to handle the sheer amount of offensive magic being thrown at it. The Pit Fiend reappears directly behind Kanmeshi, tearing at the priest, then dropping a ball of fire onto Ryhir's head. ((Full Attack on Kanmeshi for a total of 90 damage. Quickened fireball centered on Ryhir for 37 damage. Ref save DC: 21.))
Map update not really needed.

Posted by: DragonmasterDon1 Thu Jul 20, 2006 10:31 pm
Isyndel collapses, caught on the outskirts of the fireball. HP -2

Posted by: Kaihaku Thu Jul 20, 2006 10:49 pm
[Reflex Save: 1...+ 21 + misc mods = over 21] [Evasion] The flames lick around the paladin, this time searing his flesh. Cedric frowns deeply enraged then, despite his armor and the sand, breaks into a awkward run towards the newly appeared fiend, "Surround and kill it before it can escape!" His voice across the sand as he trudges towards the fiend. If he reaches the fiend, he lashes out once mightily...his life force empowering the already mighty blow.
[Power Attack 3]
[Attack: 12 + 27 + 2 (Fiend) + 3 (Bard) - 3 (PA) + misc mods = very high]
[Damage: 6 + 24 + 4 (Elec) + 7 + 1 + 19 (Divine Sacrifice) + 6 (PA) = 64 + 4 (Elec)]

Posted by: Aldur Sun Jul 23, 2006 12:29 am
Sulia rushes back to her comrades, moving back towards as far she could, holding her hands aloft and praying quickly to her guardian god, The Light. "May you feel the divine favour of the light! Let in sink into your soul and heal your wounds!"
((Mass CLW: 1 -_- +11 = 12 hp back to everyone.))

Posted by: Dark Maiden Tue Jul 25, 2006 3:15 pm
Damas' expression goes from a blank slate to that of sheer horror in an instant. The dreadful Pit Fiend tears into Kanmeshi brutally, and then drops another fireball on the group. The elven mage silently prays that the birdman still lives, and that Aurik or Sulia could help him.
This is getting out of hand! That damned devil needs to die...
Damas moves forward so that the devil would be within his range. He brings forth his wand again and begins to weave arcane symbols in the air. A glowing blue orb about 2" in diameter appears in his hand. He smiles grimly and throws it at the devil. His aim is very precise, and it hits.
"The fighters should be able to handle the rest..."
|Damas casts Lesser Orb of Cold on the Pit Fiend.
Ranged Attack: 13 + 5 (BAB) + 3 (DEX) - 4 (Ally in melee) = 17. Hit
Damage: [Max damage] 40 - 10 (Resistance) = 30 cold damage|
Kethra flips forward towards the Pit Fiend, twisting and turning to avoid leaving herself open to any attacks. The young monk spins around and attempts to uppercut the Pit Fiend, but she achieves nothing.
|Tumble: 12 + 15 = 27. More than enough
Roll to attack: 13 + 10 (Bonuses. Not enough even if there are buffs up|

Posted by: DragonmasterDon1 Thu Jul 27, 2006 2:26 am
Isyndel rose to her feet, exhausted, as Sulia's power takes to her. Fighting the urge to flee, she quickly begins weaving magic about her before releasing it, causing a barrier to form about her. ((Energy Shield cast.))

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Fri Jul 28, 2006 7:57 pm
Castor charges into the Pit Fiend, Atlas Axe cleaving away a portion of the devil's flesh. Even as Kanmeshi falls to the ground. The Fiend roars in pain. ((Hit. 38 damage.)) An arc of lightning slams into the fiend from Rhizor, bypassing the devil's magical defenses and ravaging its unholy flesh. It snarls at the druid, but is distracted by yet another blast of lightning as it swerves mostly out of the way of another spell from Lisa.
((46 damage from Rhizor. Save failed. Save made. Half damage. 20 damage from Lisa.))
Zook aims his laser rifle carefully at the Fiend and fires a dead on shot. The blast of energy sears off half the fiends' face, and it flies there, dazed as it tries to murmur arcane words in its defense. However, before it can finish, Ashathel casts an orb of electricity onto the devil, and the monster explodes in a shower of sulfur and brimstone.
((Critical Hit! 32 damage. Ashathel casts Lesser Orb of Electricity! Hit! No need to roll damage, fiend was at 1 HP.))
"Impressive," Lisa says, casting a spell to heal her wounds. "A vastly powerful being and only one is dead. Perhaps the Strife Lords... and I for that matter, have underestimated you."
((2000 XP to all. Battle over. Can we get this thing moving again?))

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Fri Jul 28, 2006 8:50 pm
Zook bounds down from his armor, grim satisfaction etched into his face. He was glad, despite himself, that ADAM had persisted through an entire battle. Oblivious to the death of Kanmeshi, the tinker rubs the back of his neck absently and looks to Cedric.
"Everyone alright?"

Posted by: Rusty Fri Jul 28, 2006 9:12 pm
*Faralon is momentarily stunned by Lisa's apathetic comments. She hasn't been travelling with us long, but even when you do not know someone it is inexcusable to say something like that!* : "You cold-hearted wench! By the stars, have a little decency...An ally has just fallen here. Show him a little more respect..."

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Fri Jul 28, 2006 9:16 pm
Zook looks over to Faralon, shocked. Then his eyes move past the bard, to the body of Kanmeshi. The gnome's voice quavers. "Oh my..."

Posted by: Dark Maiden Fri Jul 28, 2006 9:19 pm
Kethra makes her way back to the others, counting herself lucky that she received no wounds. However, there were some that were not so lucky. Her gaze sweeps over Kanmeshi. True, more could have died, but even one death was enough to make the monk sad.
May this poor soul rest in peace...
Damas' gaze turns to Kanmeshi as well, forcing tears back. He hated death, and he hated the vile creatures that brought death to so many innocents. When he hears Lisa's words, his eyes narrow and his hands clench into fists. His gaze shifts to Faralon for a moment, and then back to Lisa. Damas takes a deep breath and speaks.
"Faralon does have a point. To my ears, it would sound as though you don't care about Kanmeshi's death." He sighs. "We attained victory, but at the cost of a life. I ask that you show him a little sympathy and respect."

Posted by: DragonmasterDon1 Fri Jul 28, 2006 10:01 pm
Wheezing, Isyndel fought to restore the cadence of her own breaths she stabilized herself on the sands. Her body once again felt weak, wracked with aches and pains and the stench of burnt flesh. Clutching at her stomach, her weak gaze passed over the battlefield slowly in an attempt to discern exactly how everything unfolded so quickly. Much to her ire her count revealed members missing as the others began to speak. She was numb to their words until her eyes finally caught the sight of Kanmeshi behind her.
"By the Gods, what is wrong with you people?" she shrieked, turning immediately to run towards the fallen, her arms raised at elbow level at her sides as she pushed her exhausted form toward him. Quickly, she dropped to her knees and searched the remains, fighting the sickening swells in her stomach at the sight of it, for any signs of life. Frantic, she continued her exclamations.
"Were you even going to look in on him before declaring his death?! Try to make sure there's nothing you can do first? Those of you who can heal at least owe an ally a look, and the rest of you would do to look for Kyoji and Lilah or our scouts instead of standing around arguing like an assembly of maladjusted fools. Act now, discuss later!" she spat, yet to notice Merkass and Brand's approach from the south.

Posted by: Rusty Fri Jul 28, 2006 10:03 pm
*Kanmeshi gives no response - there is no pulse, no breathing, no signs of life. Kanmeshi is dead.*

Posted by: Arcdragnbreth Fri Jul 28, 2006 10:53 pm
"Look," Ashathel said, his voice solemn, "by now, we know what death looks like. He only just joined us, but dead is dead no matter how you play it. You're right, though... we should be keeping an eye out for an ambush." Gabriel says nothing but sheathes his blade, angered that he could do nothing in the battle. Instead of moping, however, he follows the distraught mage's lead and begins to look for any signs of other enemies.
((Spot: 1d20 +2 (wis) = 19
Listen: 1d20 +11 (ranks) +2 (wis) = 32))

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Fri Jul 28, 2006 11:04 pm
Lisa frowns at Faralon. : "Yes, an ally is dead. One. Out of how many at substantial risk? I didn't say his loss wasn't tragic, nor did I besmirch his memory. I merely stated that if a Pit Fiend with entourage can only manage to slay one of your number before falling himself that you must be more powerful than I thought," Lisa explains coldly to Faralon. She turns and speaks to Isyndel with far more sympathy. "I've been around a lot of death, I can tell when a life is cut short. Your efforts are commendable, though."
Gabriel hears the faint sound of tromping feet even as Lisa continues to speak.
: "If you wish, I will attempt to retrieve our wayward comrades, as my flight spell is still in effect."

Posted by: Dark Maiden Fri Jul 28, 2006 11:22 pm
"How could I be so foolish?" Damas asks himself this question solemnly, placing his hand on his forehead. Many of them had been wounded, and he hadn't even bothered to check on Kanmeshi. Never has he felt so foolish in his entire life. He looks at Isyndel with concern for a moment, and then looks around, hoping his senses will serve him well today.
Listen: 15
Spot: 16
Damas then looks at Lisa for a moment and lowers his head slightly.
"I hope that you will forgive me for accusing you of not caring."
Kethra remains silent and keeps watch.
Listen: 29
Spot: 24

Posted by: DragonmasterDon1 Sat Jul 29, 2006 12:37 am
Her examination of Kanmeshi needed only short time to prove what she was soon told as conclusive. She was no expert, naturally, but saw no hint of life in the corpse before her. Still on her knees, her hands folded gently across her lap. Cocking her head slightly to the side, she replied to Lisa.
"Yes," she spoke softly. "They are quite skilled; however if anything more such as those creatures were searching about this desert, their safety would be compromised. In the meantime," she turned her attention to Ashathel as she rose to her feet once more, "we have seen too much on this journey to simply accept what looks to be death without closer examination. Burial, funeral pyre, whatever is decided for his last rites need be prepared immediately if not sooner. Decide and carry it out quickly," she continued, walking past the small congregation with her eyes closed. "He deserves a better fate than to be left here for the devils to turn against us at their convenience while you banter. If you require my assistance, tell me when ready and I shall help."
When she was sufficiently far enough away, her eyes opened once more; the wetness of tears held back blurring her sight more than the heat emanating from the desert. With the chaos of battle she was worried that the others may have lost their sense of direction. Sniffling and wiping her eyes, she began studying her surroundings quietly, choking back the need to cry. The death branded her, a stigmata of their failure. Her failure. There was nothing to do now but reaffirm their position and direction and wait for Kyoji and the others to return.
((Knowledge: Nature: 9 + 9 + 4 = 22
Knowledge: Geography: 9 + 8 + 4 =21.
Spot: 8 + 2 + 1 = 11
Listen: 5 + 2 + 1 = 8. Weather, reaffirming direction and location, anything else she can doublecheck in case battle screws up our sense of direction in all the chaos.))

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Sat Jul 29, 2006 2:08 am
Kethra also vaguely hears the stomping of many feet coming closer, even as Lisa goes airborne to search for the wayward ninja and Lillend.

Posted by: Dark Maiden Sat Jul 29, 2006 4:12 am
Kethra alerts the others about what she hears. "There is the sound of the stomping of feet, and it's getting closer..."

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Sat Jul 29, 2006 4:16 am
Zook pinches the bridge of his nose as he clambers back into ADAM. The machine whirs to life, the minigun rotating menacingly as the gnome braces for the approaching band. His eyes piercing the obscuring grit of sand in the wind, he sees a significant number of unarmed humans cresting a nearby dune. ADAM surges forward slowly, gleaming in the desert sun. The Royal Crest of Cypress shines golden on the armor's breastplate. Zook's voice rings out, almost comically small coming from the imposing figure of ADAM.
"It is not safe in this desert; fiends are about, and you are not prepared to face them. For your sakes, turn back. Now."
The group shuffles to a stop as Zook speaks, and after he finishes they burst into an excited titter.
"Do you see that?"
"It must be twelve feet tall!"
"Check out the chaingun! That's gotta be Ancient!"
"Is it him?"
"It must be!"
The largest among the group, a tall, broad-shouldered young man with flaming orange hair in a black shirt and khakis raised his arms. Around his chest a strap holding a rifle to his back was visible. His voice was steadier; when he spoke his exuded relief and satisfaction more than excitement.
"Hold on a second, just hold on." He stepped forward lightly, standing just outside ADAM's shadow. "Are you Zook Aleslosh of Cypress?"
A long pause. "What... why?"
Taking the extended pause as a silent affirmation, the tall man cleared his throat. "Sir Aleslosh, I am Musril Kelmet. I was given commission to lead an archaelogical expedition--" he waves a hand back towards the assembled humans, an obviously rehearsed gesture, "--into the local Ancient ruins. But the movement of the devil army makes this too dangerous. We idled in Hassan for a time, and the taverns began to carry rumors of an expeditionary force out of Cypress, and among them, a gnomish tinker of fantastic skill--"
"What do you want with me?" Zook asks, cutting Musril off abruptly.
"Well... we want to join you, sir."
Another long pause. "What... why?"
Musril blinks, and the crowd behind him titters. A gnome darts out from among the humans, having been heretofore obscured.
"We want to join you!"
ADAM's frame creaks. In a start Zook jerked the armor's controls, causing it to shudder. Another long pause passes, and finally the cockpit hatch opens and Zook hops out. More hushed discussion follows. He surveys the group, eyes creased. After a moment he shakes his head.
"Go home. If you stay, you will die."
Musril looks down at Zook. "My home is Guardiana. My homeland is caught in the vice grip of the Cult. The others are mechanics, students, apprentices. I am here as much to fight alongside you as I am to learn from you." He unshoulders his rifle. "If you send us away, we will follow. We have faith in your skills, the skills of your comrades, in the guiding hands of the Light. We will be safe with you."
Zook stares up into Musril's eyes, not giving an inch. Another pause, the longest yet, passes between the two. Finally the smaller man looks down, and then over to the other tinkers, who had been approaching ADAM steadily during the exchange, and were admiring it from up close.
"What are your names?"
Names are rattled off, 16 in total, not counting Musril. Zook shakes his head, walking over to the others. "Never going to remember all those... can barely remember my own most days..." he grumbles. He raises his arms, and speaks to his allies. "These are tinkers, unarmed humans mostly, and they want to...eh... follow me." He turns his head up to Cedric. "What do I do?" he whispers to the paladin. "I'm not cut out to be a leader. It'd be a massive danger to take them, but I don't know how to shake them. Help me."

Posted by: Kaihaku Sat Jul 29, 2006 1:49 pm
Cedric stands grimly over the corpse of Kanmeshi, ignoring for a moment the emotional and callous bickering around him. He does not weep, no tears remain, yet he whispers in silent a prayer of blessing and warding for the poor spirit. Then, as Isyndel speaks is called upon, the Paladin turns away solemnly, "Yes, we will return this warrior of Volcanon to his god. Ashes carried by the wind unto the far reaches of the world." Cedric pauses for a moment to look up at the blinding sun, "Let us never grow so cold that we neglect to mourn the dead. If we do so, we only take another step closer to becoming like those we hate." He slides his mighty hammer away upon his back, "Kanmeshi was a valiant friend and noble ally, his death was a worthy one...but this victory was not a worthy exchange for it." The Paladin regretted the death of a loyal ally, one of the few among the group who was dependable and trustworthy at all times. More so however, he was felt that his rage had grown greater, as the flame consumed the flesh of the noble warrior, it increased the hatred hidden deep within Cedric. The Paladin was disturbed yet there were none to whom he could turn. None who could help him, he was left to deal with this burden alone without even the aid of the Goddess.
Cedric stood in grim reflection, only vaguely noting the newcomers after they were clearly marked as not hostile and he sensed no evil in them. As Zook approached him, the Paladin grunted before looking down at the gnome, "Not cut out to be a leader? I disagree friend, otherwise I never would have placed you in a command position." He sighs, looking out over the wastes, "It's been my experience that unarmed tinkers don't say unarmed for long..." The Paladin crosses his arms, "It would expedite your development of weapons to have more aid. At the same time, some among them might be spies of the enemy. I may sense no evil but I am wary." He frowns for a moment, "Let them accompany us as far as the next settlement, there chose the best among them to continue serving under you and dismiss the remainder. Is that acceptable? Regardless, I would not dismiss them now unarmed in the middle of a hostile desert."

Posted by: Aldur Sat Jul 29, 2006 4:11 pm
Sulia smiled wistfully as the birdman burned, and she watched as his ashes descended into the sky, offering a prayer for the birdman, asking the light to guide him into the arms of Volcanon, where he would be forever honoured. She then turned and looked in surprise at the large amount of tinkers following after Zook.
"I did not know that he was so famous..."
She looked at Cedric and pursed her lips, yet remained silent, looking around the desert.

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Sat Jul 29, 2006 8:21 pm
Zook looks down at Cedric's feet for a moment before turning back without a reply. He struggles through the sand, his short legs often ending knee-deep in the dunes. He clambers up to stand atop ADAM. First he sits, pulls off his shoes, and shakes loose the sand that had lodged in them. Then he pulls them back on, stands once more, and speaks, haltingly.
"You have come... to follow me?"
A dozen murmurs of assent.
Zook stops, and looks down at his feet, then over to Cedric, and finally back to the group.
"You may accompany me and my comrades to the next settlement. During the trip, I will assign tasks to each of you, tests of your skill, your knowledge, your... your dedication. Those of you who do not pass will stay behind, to study in safety." The gnome shakes his head. "You will be cared for, protected, to the best of my ability and to the abilities of those you see behind me. But be mindful that this is not a guarantee of safety, or even a likelihood. The odds are strong that we march to our certain death. Those among you who are unwilling to risk life and limb for the perfection of the craft, stay behind." Zook's eyes narrow, and his voice carries a trace of iron.
"This is not a field trip. This is war."
There is silence from the group of young tinkers, fresh-faced despite being beaten raw by sand and sun. After a moment Musril cups his hands to his mouth, and calls out to Zook's other impromptu followers.
"You heard him! Grab your bags! We're moving out!"
A resounding cheer swells up from the crowd, and they immediately pick up their packages and bulky tools and huddle around ADAM. Realization dawns on Zook's face. He smiles.
"Take your tools out! I need three of you to help me install something!"
Musril, the gnome, and one of the humans step forward, equipment in hand. Zook looks to them, looks to Cedric, and looks out to the infinite sky. He scrambles down to the cargo hold, coming out with a heavy and awkward bundle wrapped in canvas.
"Let's get to work."

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Sat Jul 29, 2006 11:31 pm
It is twenty minutes later when Lisa returns with Kyoji and Lilah in tow. She frowns as she lands. "I'm sorry for the wait... It was more troublesome than I thought."

Posted by: Kaihaku Sun Jul 30, 2006 1:08 pm
Sickly sweet smoke is slow drifting up from the hastily constructed pyre in the midst of the oasis. The group is assembled, waiting for the return of its two wayward companions. As they return, Cedric was standing before the flames consuming a worthy ally speaking sacred blessings but then turns to face them and nods.
Lilah blushes profusely, a shamed expression across her face, "I hath fled in utter cowardice... I shalt increase my defenses, I promise thee this."
Cedric nods quietly and gestures to the endless desert, "We will not forget the sacrifice made me but we cannot long pause to honor the dead." He begins walking into the desert, "We must settle for avenging them."

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Sun Jul 30, 2006 6:53 pm
: "I cannot believe I fell so easily to such a foe as fear... Even with all my training and with the magical protection given to me... I've shamed my entire line," Kyoji says to himself, disgusted. "Ran away... Ran away..." he mutters. Brand leaves the group at this point, leaving the party the magical Orb of Lightning. He says he needs to think about some things and to investigate some things. He wishes the party well and then is off into the sky.
"Well? What now?" Lisa asks.

Posted by: DragonmasterDon1 Sun Jul 30, 2006 9:25 pm
At his words, Isyndel briefly placed her hand on Kyoji's shoulder without saying a word. The same amount of conversation is given as Brand takes to flight; the elven wizardess giving a subtle wave, her somber mood still evident as the time passed.
"It seems there are but two options," she replied as Lisa spoke. "It is dangerous for us to remain here for several reasons, but by the same token there may not be many more opportunities to rest near water while in this irritating heat. We are, once again, tired and wounded -- but still," she finished calmly, trailing off in thought.

Posted by: Kaihaku Mon Jul 31, 2006 3:41 am
Cedric takes in a deep breath and shakes his head, "...and now Brand..." The Paladin stares at the orb in his hand, then his fingers tighten and he looks up, "Kethra. You will wield the Lightning Orb." He turns back at the pile of equipment that once belonged to the slain birdman, "We need to divide this equipment among ourselves."
[A Ghost touch Longsword +3, a Dagger, a Dart, Medium Fortification Breastplate +5 (Acid Resistance 20), Heavy Steel Shield +1, Morningstar, Heward's Handy Haversack, Ring of Protection +1, Silk Rope, Bedroll, Chalk x2, Bullseye Lantern, Thunderstone, Alchemists Fire, Holy Water, a Wand of Cure Medium Wounds 22 charges and 135 gold.]

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Mon Jul 31, 2006 3:45 am
((I'll take the Haversack if no one else wants it; Zook's got a lot of odds and ends and a low carry capacity. Altnernatively, I'm sure I could find a use for the bullseye lantern. I'm not sure if I can attach other shields to my SteamShield pack but if I can the shield would be nice, since it's worse than anything any of the other shield users have but it'd bump my AC by 3 or 4))

Posted by: Aldur Mon Jul 31, 2006 4:04 am
((Sulia wouldn't mind the Armour. She only does have a Masterwork Breastplate.)) Sulia waved goodbye to Brand, someone she'd not had a chance to really talk to and then looked about the desert. She wondered how something so warm could be so cold seeming and unforgiving. She then looked at the spoils, a sad look on her face, this seemed somewhat wrong, but the woman knew it was nessessary and nodded.

Posted by: Kaihaku Mon Jul 31, 2006 4:17 am
((Zook recieves the items he requested. Sulia gets the armor.)) As the equipment is handed out, Cedric takes the wand of cure moderate wounds and slides it under his belt. Pausing for a moment, he then looks up with determination, "We continue to move."
The party then begins making its way onward in the accursed desert once more.
((Equipment may still be claimed.))

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Mon Jul 31, 2006 4:23 am
The rest of the day is fairly uneventful as the group trudges on beneath the merciless sun. The group manages to evade a few groups of heavily armed devils and the scouts swiftly overpower and silence some of the smaller, weaker devil patrols. Finally, night arrives, the blazing ball of heat banished from the sky, taken by the cool radiance of the stars.
Currently, the rations have been broken out, enhanced with a bit of cantrip magic to make them more appetizing. A small fire, easily doused if something gets too close, blazes at the center of the camp.
: "Zook, what progress have you made in breaking the Lord's hold over Gabriel?" Lisa asks the gnome.
Kyoji leans against a wagon in the background, lost in his own thoughts.

Posted by: Aldur Mon Jul 31, 2006 4:45 am
Sulia, noting that Kyoji seemed distant, stood up from her place near the fire, making her way over to him, clearing her throat gently. She smiled at the ninja, gesturing back to the fire. "Mayhap you would feel better closer to everyone?"

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Mon Jul 31, 2006 4:56 am
Zook looks up at Lisa as if in a dream. "What? Oh, yes... been meaning to do that for a while." He hops down from ADAM and moves to examine Gabriel. After a moment he steps back, hands on his head. "He'll need to be opened up for me to find out more. Since he's not wholly machine, it is beyond my skill alone. A powerful and knowledgable healer will need to assist me." He looks over to Aurik. "It should be within the realm of your abilities, I think."

Posted by: Dark Maiden Mon Jul 31, 2006 5:30 am
((Damas will take the dagger [because having a back up weapon that one can actually use is always usual for many things], and the thunderstone if no one ha any complaints)) +Earlier+ Kethra is a bit, well, puzzled when Cedric hands her the orb.
"M-me? But..."
The monk stops for a moment, clears her throat, and speaks again.
"Very well - I will take care of it, Cedric."
Damas just stares at Cedric as he speaks about handing out Kanmeshi's belongings. Somehow, it seems wrong to him, but the sorcerer knows it is a necessity. He nods and asks for two very small items, needing nothing else.
+Now+
Kethra is sitting by the fire, eating her food. Rations never bothered her, as she was used to simple food from the many years she spent in a monastery. After she is finished, she looks towards Kyoji and sighs.
I wonder what is wrong with him. I wish there was something I could do, but it would seem that Sulia has it covered...
Damas remains silent for the better part of the evening. He never did like rations, but he had grown used to them during the trip. The sorcerer looks over his shoulder towards Kyoji.
I hope he's alright...
The sorcerer then turns back to the others, his expression slightly solemn.

Posted by: Aldur Mon Jul 31, 2006 6:03 am
"Hmmm? I'm sorry, I wasn't listening. What did you say?" Kyoji says, snapping out of his thoughts and turning to Sulia. The silver haired woman smiled again, her head tilting to one side slightly. "I was suggesting you may wish to move closer with the rest of us...but is something wrong? Is it about Earlier?"
"I ran away and left my comrades to fight and die in the sands. Had I not fled... out of... COWARDICE," Kyoji spits the word out. "One of ours might've lived..."
"I keep running over the moment again and again trying to figure out how years of training and preparation failed me."
"We ninja... We're supposed to be able to pursue our mission in the deepest darkness without fear of death... but even with a magical amulet, I failed and fled..."
"Ninja you may be, and trained and prepared you may have been but...from my own experiences? I've found that no amount of planning or training amounts to the edge experience can bring. And...Yes, one of ours is dead. Yet, I don't think it's your fault alone. If you are going to play the What if game...what if you stayed and another three appeared? What if someone else fled instead? Learning from your mistakes and moving on is indeed a better thing to do than...continually berated yourself over things you can't change now." She nodded firmly, speaking with conviction.
"I... I know this. but it is still difficult. Had it been another task... But resilience in the face of terror is something my clan prided itself on..." Kyoji shakes his head. "And for the life of me, I cannot figure out how my training failed..."
Sulia shook her head and sighed, realising this might be a hard one to crack. "That was no ordinary foe...The fear of the sight of them, it was not ordinary, I know I would have fled if not for the protection of The Light."
"True..." Kyoji sighs. "For all I have learned, I suppose I still have a long way to go."
"Tell me, had you ever seen that abomination before? Or heard of them?" Sulia turned slightly, leaning against the wagon also.
"No... I had not..." Kyoji says.
"And did your training encompass handling...less than normal to say the least things like that? It's very well to train for something, only to have to be facing something else."
"Yes, my training covered it..." Kyoji says with a sigh.
"Goodness! You people are thorough! I doubt anyone in the church I...well, I wasn't trained there per say, my powers have always seemed to come rather easily. But back to the point. You are not a coward, for the fear which rose up was magical in nature...and thus, not your fault."
"Failing against it was my fault... But as long as I train myself harder and don't let it happen again, I should be fine," Kyoji says, putting a hand on his chin.
Sulia frowns, a grim look on her face as she nods. "Something tells me you'll get the chance to test that in the future. Blast this cult! What they do makes no sense at all to me! Consorting with the likes of Demons and Devils...What are these Strife Lords?"
"Evil... Pure evil..." Kyoji says, quietly.
Sulia nods solemnly at the ninja. "You've all come face to face with them...aside from me. Indeed, I am curious to see the face of their madness."
"The face is always familiar," Kyoji says, looking at Sulia with an expression that seemed to almost forebode future pain... for Sulia or himself, hard to say.
"I'm sorry, I don't quite understand your comment...though I think you meant that all evil has the same...aura?" She tilted her head to one side, puzzling this out.
"You'll have to fight your husband," Kyoji says, bluntly. "Cedric had to fight his sister. I nearly had to fight my Uncle."
"See a pattern?"
Sulia nodded...her eyes distant now. "I'll have to fight Amelios? Mmm...if it comes to it, I shall end his suffering. Pain seems to be the food of these evil abominations. Pain and Fear...the food and drink of evil. Though I note...they seem to especially like pitting people against those close to them. How very cruel..."
"You seem to have taken your husband's corruption very well."
Sulia sighed, turning her head to face the ninja. "So they have said...and yet...I cannot help it? He is an anguished soul. And I shall end his suffering, one way...or the other. My path is set."
"You're missing the point..." Kyoji says with another sigh. "You don't seem to be that affected... Duty or not, logic or not, most would be a little affected about this."
"As hard and cold as it may seem...I am not most. Suffice it to say that our marriage was not one of choice. I am sorry that I will have to take the life of another...yet I am hard pressed to see it much further." She smiled, a little wistfully. "I doubt he mentioned me much, if at all."
"He did. He claimed to think of you often, in fact..." Kyoji says.
"That...is surprising. Last we met he didn't seem very pleased by my prescence. But then, we never were exactly close. So I suppose it's hard to think of him in the way a normal wife would." She giggled a little. "Our wedding day was...interesting. He cursed my existence. Of course he apologised once he'd calmed down a bit. He never was one for authority."
"Interesting... Perhaps you'll have a chance to ask him," Kyoji says. "Cedric's sister was broken free of her corruption... I find it hard to believe Amelios would be beyond all hope."
"Then I will not have to kill him...and so I have no need to be remorseful. I apologise if I appear colder than most, but...this is the way I think."
geddis the hero: "And...What of your uncle? You said almost...It is good you did not need to fight."
"The spell that was to reanimate him was never cast, Shailtor fled before he could raise him."
Sulia let out a gasp, concern in her eyes. "I-I am sorry! I was not aware he was already. Argh. Again my apologies!" A little flustered Sulia attempted to bring the conversation around to less morbid things. "So you have been with the group from the beginning?"
"Yes, that is correct... Your apologies are appreciated, but unneeded. You spoke not from spite."
Sulia shook her head again. "And you said my reactions were less than normal...Aheh."
"All my emotion on the matter of my uncle has been brought under control and crystallized into another driving force behind my decision to fight the Strife Lords." Kyoji says quietly, eyes narrowing at the mention of the name.
Sulia nodded. "Is...Cedric like that as well? He seems to get more grim with everyday."
"No... No, this is a recent and troubling change..." Kyoji says, a hint of worry in his voice. "When first we began... He was always cheerful... Breaking out into song even in the middle of a battle."
"People change with the more they see, slowly being molded and tested, twisting into something else entirely sometimes. Negative emotions do that. The Strife Lords are evil. And we must stop them. Revenge? Vengeance? They lead to destruction. As does hate. I do not like my enemies. Yet I find hating them serves no purpose, other than debasing myself to the level of my enemy. Cedric seems less Approachable as the days go on...maybe someone should suggest this sometime? I would but, I do not think he trusts me much yet, so my counsel may not be taken in." She nodded, pushing off from the wagon. "One last thing. Focus on what you can change rather than that you can't. It'll only give you a headache anyway." With that rather flippant comment Sulia returned to the campfire, hoping the Ninja would join everyone after clearing his mind.
"I already..." Kyoji begins to say, but sees Sulia walk away and sighs instead, making a mental note to talk to Cedric.

Posted by: Arcdragnbreth Mon Jul 31, 2006 7:10 pm
Gabriel said nothing, and instead simply sat and listened as his fate was being discussed. I wonder if it wouldn't be better for all if I just died, he thought. But if I die... then I can't kill Shailtor with my own hands. And that... that's not something I'll tolerate. I want his head crushed beneath my feet, blood spilt on the earth. Nothing more... and nothing less.

Posted by: Kaihaku Mon Jul 31, 2006 9:21 pm
Cedric steps slowly around the campsite, coming to a halt beside the shrouded figure of Simone. He stares at the fire for a long moment before he finally begins speaking, "How are you faring?" "I'm fine," Simone says, quietly, looking into the fire. "I'm worried, of course, but I'm fine."
The Paladin stares at the flames for another moment, then nods, "Good... If you need something please let us know." He then turns and continues his walk.
...
Resting upon serpentine coils, the beautiful countenance of Lilah is troubled as she looks out over the camp. Letting out a sigh, her eyes settle on Sulia and a hint of curiosity enters her eyes. Sliding smoothly over the sand, she smiles gently, "Greetings... I hath heard that thou art wed to the cleric called Amelios."
Sulia smiles at Lilah and nods. "Indeed Lady Lilah, I am wed to Amelios. What can I do for you? Or do you merely wish for company?" The Aasimar nodded politely, her eyes gentle in the darkness.
Lilah lets out a light chuckle, in perfect pitch as a pure musical note, "Ah... I hath had little time to speak with thee and I thought that I wouldst remedy that."
Sulia tilts her head a little, and nods, "Certainly then. What would you like to converse about?"
The Lillend glances up at the starry sky, "Though art of the cloth, in this thy plane what fate await those who die?" She looks down softly, her eyes troubled, "My realm is one where death dost last no longer than a single night. Thy realm doth not seem to be so kind to those who perish."
"Death...Morbid subject indeed. I suppose...what happens to them really depends on the person." Sulia smiles wistfully at this, thinking it over. "And...I'm not really of the cloth so to speak. I don't get on well with the church..."
Lilah arches a fine eyebrow, "Indeed now?" An inquisitive light twinkles in her eyes, "Yet thou wed a cleric?"
"Well...he was of a different church. Our ideals differ in certain ways and I suppose that did make it easier."
Lilah shakes her head with a smile, "Oft love doth end suffering and division..." Wings of the purest white stretch out from the back of the Lillend, "What ideals doth thy church hold? Art they the reason that thou dost travel with us?"
Sulia notes the Lillend's wings and sighs a little, shaking her head ruefully. "I would love for such appendages. And my church is that of Light itself. We believe that the Light grants us a path that we must walk..."
Lilah chuckles, "If thou art commanded to walk this path, why wish for wings?"
Sulia blinks, tilting her head as her mind works out the joke and she laughs. "I did not mean it literally Lady Lillah."
The Lillend shakes her head, a grin crossing her fair features, "It always pleases me when a religion dost not take itself too seriously..." Mirthful, the Lillend sighs, "We shall speak again, of this I am certain, but for now I fear that I must rest ere my turn to patrol. Good night, Lady Sulia."
"Ah...Very well. Goodbye Lady Lilah."

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Tue Aug 01, 2006 4:40 am
Cedric is awakened by an insistent shaking. "Cedric... Wake up. Hurry," Kyoji says, urgently. His eyes bloodshot, the Paladin sits up with a frown, reaching for his hammer, "Report..." "Look to the sky... I'm going to wake the others. I have no idea what this means," Kyoji says, moving away.
Cedric shakes his head to clear it and looks up at the skies. His eyes behold line of light streaking from the earth in the direction of Megiddo. They reach the heavens and disappear among the stars. A few lines streak down from the starlit sky to the ground. The streaks of light continue in equal ferocity, never ceasing nor slowly. Now fully awake, the Paladin stumbles to his feet and takes a few steps forward, staring up in grim awe. Then he speaks, his voice cold and hard, "Wake Faralon and Zook... They alone might have an idea what new devilry that is."
Kyoji moves about the camp, waking the bard and tinker first, then the rest, just in case.

Posted by: Dark Maiden Tue Aug 01, 2006 2:29 pm
Damas groans and opens his eyes as Kyoji shakes him. The sorcerer looks as the ninja moves away swiftly to wake up others. "W-wha?" Yawn. "I hope this is urg-" He then sees the light in the sky. "What the hell?" Damas stands up in order to get a better look.
[Knowledge (Arcana): 16 + 15 = 31]
Kethra wakes up in an instant, though not quite happy about it. However, she says nothing as she stands up to get a look at the light in the sky.
"What is that?"

Posted by: Aldur Tue Aug 01, 2006 3:43 pm
Sulia frowns as she looks at this new thing, scouring her mind to try and see if she'd heard of it before. ((Know Arcana: 18+3 = 21.))

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Tue Aug 01, 2006 6:55 pm
Zook rubs his eyes and stares at the light, racking his brain. "My stars..." ((Kno[Tech]: 14 + 21 = 35 Kno[Ancients]: 11 + 19 = 30)) The gnome squints into the display. "Looks like... ancient munitions. Powerful ones. From an aircraft, maybe."

Posted by: Kaihaku Tue Aug 01, 2006 11:19 pm
[Knowledge(Religion): 1 + 12 = 13] [Knowledge(Planes): 1 + 7 = 8] Cedric strains his eyes and brain, struggling to decipher the mystery of the lights. [Bardic Knowledge: 8 + 6 + 2 = 16] Stretching wearily, Lilah looks up at the sky with a curious frown. Her keen eyes swiftly take in the heavens and she ponders the meaning of the lights.

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Tue Aug 01, 2006 11:25 pm
Sulia can only think it must be the mightiest of magics at work, while Damas recalls a single spell he heard of that creates a pillar of light to strike at ones' foes. It's possible some or all of the lights are such spells. "I... I've never seen such a thing..." Yeesha stares in wonderment at the display.
The lights are beautiful to behold in the distance. A few minutes go by before more lights join the display, these streaking across the sky in bursts, always to a central point.

Posted by: DragonmasterDon1 Wed Aug 02, 2006 12:08 am
Groggy, the wizardess rose to her feet, shaking the numbness of sleep from her mind as she looked about her. Following the myriad of gazes united in a single direction she found herself following suit quickly, locking on to the display of lights before them.
She pushed forward a few steps in front of the others without loosing her stare, taking in as much as she could in the sky.
(( Arcana: 17 + 18 = 35
Spellcraft: 19 + 20 = 39.
Delightful! Oh. What's a girl gotta do to get some healing anyway? And new spell list coming later if this being awake thing doesn't disrupt it.))

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Wed Aug 02, 2006 1:03 am
((It's assumed everyone was healed before resting.)) Isyndel recalls several powerful magical spells that could produce the effects of the lights, most of them far out of the ability of even the Archmagi she'd met. To cast them, one would have to be a legendary spellcaster, a demigod, devil lord, Innovator or Vandal.
The lights coming down from the sky begin to grow fewer and fewer in number until finally the lights cease on both ends, a new star shining in the sky.

Posted by: DragonmasterDon1 Wed Aug 02, 2006 4:55 am
"To effectively manipulate the mana required for that display," Isyndel said aloud, "would require extensive skill and strength of mind." She brushed her hair behind her ears with one of her hands. Her gaze settled on Zook as the display ceased. "An aircraft would certainly explain the airborne source. The light from the ground...I shudder to think what sort of being can so easily wield magic such as that were it an enemy of ours. Power such as that could only come from a well of incredible mana; someone or something that transcends the reaches of almost any wielder of magic." She trailed off, continuing to replay the display in her mind in amazement.

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Wed Aug 02, 2006 5:11 am
Zook laced his fingers behind his head, staring at the newborn star. "Someone with the magic to do that could probably manage flight," he says. "Once you're in the business of rearranging the sky, getting up there would be cake, wouldn't it?"

Posted by: Dark Maiden Wed Aug 02, 2006 2:10 pm
[Sadly, I think waking up did disrupt the divine and arcane casters from getting back spells, Don ] Damas' ears perk up and he looks at Isyndel when she speaks. The elven mage shows a slight bit of concern when Isyndel tells them about what could have done this. He then looks at Zook, but doesn't say anything, as not to interrupt their conversation. Damas looks up at the new star in the sky and smiles a little.
"It sure is beautiful..." The mage trails off slightly as crosses his arms over his chest. "I just hope that...this isn't bad..."

Posted by: DragonmasterDon1 Wed Aug 02, 2006 2:39 pm
"Without a doubt," Isyndel replied absently. "I did not wish to dismiss your observations so quickly, but certainly it is possible. To be frank, I find ancient munitions to be a more comforting possibility than accepting that it could be the result of a spellcaster with abilities on par with that of a Vandal," she finished, gently scratching the skin behind her left ear, tracing slowly with the edge of her fingernail.
"Did Ancient Technology incorporate mana energy in any way, Zook? Or was it all strictly scientific?"

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Wed Aug 02, 2006 6:54 pm
Zook crossed his arms. "That was their great triumph," he says, still watching the star. "The unison of the mystic and the mundane. The ability to work feats like those of the mightiest arcanists using in large part the laws of nature as they normally behaved -- the laws governing the interactions between matter and energy. They realized, as few do, that the lines between fields blur the higher up you get in them. High technology looks a lot like high arcana looks a lot like high art. Inspiration and ingenuity overtake knowledge and technicality. It's strange, for those like you and I whose craft comes through study, to realize that the greatest achievements of scholars come in fits of inspired creativity."

Posted by: Kaihaku Wed Aug 02, 2006 7:31 pm
Lilah continues to stare up with a perplexed frown, "Fascinating..." Cedric frowns deeply as the lights fade, then listens in on the conversation between Zook and Iysndel. Frowning, he finally speaks, "Despite this disturbing turn of events, we must press on..." The Paladin turns back to the sky for a moment, "We have a long march tomorrow during which we can discuss this further." He looks back at the others, "Standard guards, the rest of us need to get what sleep we can."

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Wed Aug 02, 2006 7:32 pm
((So long as you go back to sleep for the rest of the required time, it doesn't disrupt. That'd be silly. "Oh noes, I woke up in the middle of the night to go to the bathroom, now I don't have any spells!"))

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Wed Aug 02, 2006 7:49 pm
Zook shakes his head. "I'm up anyway. I'll take watch."

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Thu Aug 03, 2006 12:46 am
The rest of the night passes uneventfully.

Posted by: Kaihaku Thu Aug 03, 2006 1:14 am
As the sun slowly begins to drift into the sky, it finds the force already on the move taking advantage of the cool morning hours. Trudging on through the thick sand, their determination is made clear by the effort they manifest. Cedric rides Fortune Cookie silently, his eyes looking out over the wasteland keenly.
Lilah slides smoothly through the sand beside Isyndel, questioning her about the events of the night before.
Marching on through the morning, the group pauses at midday in order to avoid the hottest part of the day, the sun beats down mercilessly but at least the group has a rest from moving through the sand.

Posted by: DragonmasterDon1 Thu Aug 03, 2006 2:40 am
Previous Night Cocking her head slightly to the side, Isyndel nodded as Zook spoke. Briefly her eyes darted to Damas as if something in Zook's words struck a chord to him or her perception of him and his kind. The thought surprised her, momentarily distracting her from the conversation at hand before she was able to reign her thoughts clearly again, covering the sudden shift as smoothly as possibly. "Knowing that also reveals one other important factor as well," she replied, her expression showing a look of disappointment. "That between all of our knowledge we can discern nothing from that display without closer inspection. It could be magical, technological, or a combination of both. Frustrating."
She gave the Tinker a faint smile just the same.
Current Day
Finally rested, Isyndel awoke and continued the journey. The weather was no less friendly than the previous day, perhaps even hotter. She spent the better part of the walk either thinking of the previous night in search of an answer that had not presented itself before and occasionally glancing at the Sorceror before Lilah approached.
"It truly was fascinating," she spoke in a form of greeting, referring to her words last night.

Posted by: Kaihaku Thu Aug 03, 2006 12:23 pm
Lilah nods, "Yes... I hath never see anything akin to it." The rest lasts little more than an hour, then the group begins marching on through the sand.

Posted by: Dark Maiden Thu Aug 03, 2006 3:58 pm
Damas looks at Isyndel a few times throughout the time they are traveling and resting. However, he never approaches the wizardess during that. It isn't that he does not have the courage to approach her; it's that during their time together, he has noticed that if Isyndel wanted to talk to him, she would seek him out.
Besides, she seems to be having a conversation with Lilah right now. No one has really said much of anything to me during this trip. Then again, neither have I... Who could I try and talk to? Cedric looks a little busy, and as he is our leader, he is probably keeping watch for enemies and the like. I have not talked to Kethra or Faralon in some time...
Damas moves to Faralon's side with the grace that seems to be inherent to all elven kind. He slows down a little once he catches up to the bard and smiles a little bit.
"Hello there, Faralon," he says kindly. "How are you faring, aside from this heat?"
((Fear the might of the new battle sprites I "made" ^_^;;
Damas. He needed a new sprite, and color scheme.
Kethra. I had her wearing teal/green originally, but it looked to close to what Faralon wears, so I changed it to gray/black.
Overall, I happy with them, this being my first shot at editting sprites ^_^))

Posted by: Rusty Thu Aug 03, 2006 10:07 pm
: "All right, all things considered...Though I haven't had to endure the harshest parts of this journey like others." *Faralon looks at Damas, then at Cedric, then at Damas once again.* : "What about you? The stars have not been as kind to you. How are you doing with things?"

Posted by: Kaihaku Fri Aug 04, 2006 8:18 pm
The group marches on and on through the seemingly endless sands beneath the bitter sun. For his part, Cedric stares stonily out at the desert. Lilah slides through the sands lightly, playing music and singing to lighten the hearts of her allies.

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Mon Aug 07, 2006 12:17 am
During the walk, Kyoji approaches Isyndel. "I hear you got yourself fairly worked up at the end of that last battle." "It seemed deserved at the time," came her quiet reply, casting a worried glance about her as she spoke, not wanting to be overheard by anyone else.
"I can imagine. Are you alright now?'
Isyndel nodded. "As well as one can be. I suppose I was surprised by the unconfirmed assumption on top of witnessing it with my own eyes. As if death were not unsettling enough," she murmured. "Makes me question my usefulness after that as well; perhaps I was out of line."
"If it makes you feel better, you were more useful in that battle than myself," Kyoji says with a sigh. "But you've been an asset to this team for a while. Don't get discouraged due to one battle. Remember your sleet storm at the tower? Those and other such tactical magics have supported us tremendously in the past."
Her lips creased upward slightly as she nodded at the reassurance before the smile broke into seriousness once more. "Having to adapt my studies to be of use has proven to be a greater difficulty than I imagine. I feel as if I am racing an hourglass lately; every page turned is one closer to being too late. And you," she added swiftly, "have been nothing less than amazing thus far. You have nothing to worry about; power of that magnitude is difficult to resist."
"Ah... thank you," Kyoji says after a moment's pause. "But I wouldn't worry about your contribution either. Even if it is difficult, you've shown your ability to overcome such things with your will."
"I greatly respect your drive and determination. They are qualities not all have, and they are qualities that all should have."
With a quiet, stymied giggle the woman bent her knees in a curtsie. "I think the events of this journey force us all beyond our capacity. So far the only positive thing I have found in it thus far, until success in the end should we achieve it. Still...and perhaps surprising for me to say this, but...I am beginning to worry about some of the others in our little cavalry."
Her eyes traced to the sky as she placed one finger on the sides of her lips. "Even more surprising would be that I am worried least about Damas."
"Indeed?"
She nodded. "His response to his familiar's death is understandable and characteristic of him. I feel saddened somewhat with the brothers who seemed more ... jovial. Most of all...I worry for Cedric. His eyes are different. I would address this of him but I do not feel I am well equipped for such a thing," she finished.
Kyoji nods. "I am going to speak with him tonight, actually."
"Better you than me. I can likely offer little else besides an objective look. I lack bedside manner."
Kyoji grins slightly and shakes his head. "I think your bedside manner is fine. You're honest. No one can ask more."
"In my experience it does not work all that well for those who are suffering though."
Kyoji nods. "Point."
Kyoji sighs. "Well, I'd better go speak to Cedric."
"I wish you luck. More may hinge on it than we believe. And Kyoji..." she trailed for a moment. "Thank you once again."
"You are welcome," Kyoji says, bowing slightly. "And thank you for your well wishes. Perhaps I will be better at talking than climbing trees."
"Those things happen." She grinned.
"Indeed," Kyoji says with a smile as he leaves.

Posted by: Kaihaku Tue Aug 08, 2006 5:56 am
"Cedric," Kyoji says, approaching the paladin. "May we talk for a moment?" The Paladin glances up with a frown, "Yes, what matter needs to be discussed?" "Cedric, I am afraid everyone is a little worried about you, but most feel they are not in a place to ask any questions," Kyoji says. "We all know what you face, but we know not how you fare."
The Paladin looks at Kyoji intently for a moment, then sighs, "There are burdens we all must bare, for those we love and for the world." He frowns suddenly, holding up a hand in warding, "Do not tell me that they can be shared and thus lessened." He shakes his head, "It is the fate of man to walk a solitary path at times... Yet, I shall do more to encourage the others and less to worry them. My heart and head have been filled with dark thoughts and forebodings of late." His eyes narrow darkly, a tormented light shining in them, "I fear that I have delivered an innocent into the hands of those who desire her harm, for I did not turn Gabriel away and now our enemy has had amble time to deduce who hides beneath the hooded cloak."
"If you try to bear the world on your shoulders, you shall swiftly find them crushed," Kyoji says, "You lead us, but no leader is completely responsible for every fault and failure. Even the legendary heroes did not have faultless records."
"Now you patronize me?" Cedric chuckles wearily, "Friend, I give little thought to my many failures other than to seek ways to correct them. Else I would be destroyed..." The Paladin sighs, "I have yet to think of a means of delivering the girl..." He chuckles lightly, wry amusement crossing his face for just a moment, "...young woman to safety. I can think of no safer place than among us yet we lack the power to defend if they truly come in their might." He sighs heavily, "Zook has not reported success to me, I can only assume that the twisted workings of Shailtor are beyond even his genius."
Kyoji frowns. "I don't mean to patronize... Forgive me. I merely sought to reinforce what you already knew."
The Paladin shakes his head, "No offense is taken, I am merely weary. The death and torment of my family while strengthening my resolve has also left me weaker in other regards..." He sighs, "I only pray that the Goddess will grant me the time to mourn properly one day."
"When the war ends, no one will begrudge you the time you need," Kyoji says, quietly. "Least of all the Goddess of Healing, I would think."
Cedric nods quietly, "Yes... I would not think so myself." He smiles ruefully, "However...we must win this war first."
"If there is anything we can do, you know you have only to ask," Kyoji says. "At this point, we all are familiar with pain."
Cedric shakes his head, a hard light shining coldly in his eyes, "I know...and I know that you truly mean it." He looks out over the rest of the group, "However, I do not believe that others are nearly so inclined in regards to my well being." He takes in a breath and exhales it slowly, "Such is the nature of life... Those who make the greatest sacrifices, such as Amelios, often receive the most meager concern in return."
"That is not the nature of life, merely a harsh coating imposed on it by the darker emotions of sentientkind," Kyoji says. "This world is what everyone makes of it."
Cedric sighs, "Perhaps..." He looks up at the sky, his eyes distant, "We've come a long way, yet I have a feeling that our doom is not nearly ended." He smiles grimly, "We need a surprise in store for our enemies when they arrive... A most unpleasant one." He looks down, his confidence of olden times suddenly evident once more, "I believe I have just the thing in mind."
"The sorcerer's mental state isn't... precisely whole. His past experiences seem to have caused him to center his thoughts on himself to a degree," Kyoji says. Then he listens and nods. "Surprise?"
"I know that..." Cedric replies crossly with a frown, "I would rather not discus..."
Zook runs up to Cedric, yelping gleefully. "Cedric! Cedric! We've done it!"
"I know how you feel," Kyoji says with a sigh, "Done what?"
Cedric chuckles, "Perfect timing." As he once did, the Paladin seems to radiant confidence, "Did you deduce how it operates?"
Zook continues to hop about frantically. "The spying device! We've got it! It took some heavy magic from Aurik and 4 aides but we've got the spying device out!" Proudly, he hands it to Cedric. "Still intact, so we can reverse engineer it, in time."
Cedric frowns slightly, "Still operational?"
Zook tilts his head. "I am not sure. My hypothesis is that it recieved input through Gabriel's sensorium rather than through any apparatus of its own. Disconnected, I think it is nonfunctioning. Still," Zook continues, "It would likely be safest to destroy it, if that is your concern."
The Paladin shakes his head with a grin, "No, no... We'll place it in a bag of holding while its not being studied..." His grin widens, his voice raising suddenly, "Zook Jimbeddo Bollynock Frenkalter Steamwhistle!!! You are a genius among geniuses." He laughs, "You do not know what good you have wrought this day!"
"Wait, I thought you said you could use it to track Shailtor?" Lisa asks, walking up, having watched the operation with interest.
"Theoretically," Zook says, turning to Lisa. "It should be possible." Startled, he turns back to Cedric. "Erm... thank you." He looks about. "If you will excuse me, I have other matters to attend.ADAM will begin sky trials within a day."
Cedric chuckles, "Of course...but there is one matter I want to talk to you about, at a later time if you could spare me a few moments."
Lisa tilts her head, surprised. "You seem... Rather happy today."
Cedric arches an eyebrow, "A shadow has lifted from over my heart." He smiles, "I have the solution that I seek. Now if only I have the time to pursue it."
Zook nods. "It is good to see you in such good spirits, sir. Will tonight be alright? Installation should be completed by dusk, and I'm not taking my first test flight in the dark."
Cedric nods, "Yes... That will be fine."

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Tue Aug 08, 2006 6:07 am
Later that night, Kethra and Merkass are on watch. Zook and Cedric notice something strange outside their tents. Tabby cats, one outside Cedric's tent and two outside Zook's. Cedric discerns them to be evil, and Zook is suspicious of finding house pets in the desert. The gnome grabs his rifle and successfully sneaks past the cats prowling around his tent.
Everyone needs to make a Spot Check

Posted by: Cyrus Tue Aug 08, 2006 7:47 am
[Spot checks...why did it have to be spot checks... Check: 1d20(12)+4=16. Will pretty this up when...aw, how am I kidding? I'll just put flavor text in the next post.]

Posted by: Kaihaku Tue Aug 08, 2006 1:15 pm
Cedric frowns deeply, his eyes examining the cat while getting to his feet and picking up his hammer. Dashing forward in a charge, he lashes out mightily at the cat. [Power Attack - 2] [Attack: 20...+ 17 - 2 = 35] [Confirm: 18 + 17 - 2 = 33] [Damage: 10 + 9 + 4 [PA] + 2 [Elec] + 3 [Fiend] + 2 [Fiend] = 23 + 2 [Elec] + 1/5 [Evil/Fiend]
[Critical x3: 30 + 27 + 12 [PA] 10 [Elec] + 3 [Fiend] + 2 [Fiend] = 69+ 10 [Elec] + 1/5 [Evil/Fiend]
His hammer lands powerfully, splitting the skull of Kria's father and sending little fragments of what would have been a brain in any creature not related to Kria flying in all directions. Cedric lets out a loud cry, "We are under assault! To arms! Watch for the..." The Paladin frowns and swallows uncomfortably, "...cats."
[Spot: 17 + 4 = 21]
Lilah blinks, slowly stretching to her full height and looking out over the area with keen eyes. The shadows reveal their secrets to her supernatural sight. The Lillend frowns and glances back where her ward rests. She then draws the small cylinder from her side, igniting a blade of flame and spinning it around skillfully.

Posted by: Dark Maiden Tue Aug 08, 2006 3:24 pm
[Kethra's Spot: 4 + 11 (Ranks) + 3 (WIS) + 1 (Racial) = 19 Damas' Spot: 13 + 2 (WIS) + 2 (Racial) = 17 I'll pretty this up when I figure out if their Spot checks Succeeded ]

Posted by: Knight_019 Tue Aug 08, 2006 4:08 pm
((Merkass: 1d20 + 17 = 10 + 17 = 27. Aurik: 1d20 + 13 = 1 + 13 = 14. Merkass MS/Hide 1d20 + 22 = 17 + 22 = 39. 1d20 + 17 = 6 + 17 = 23.
Merkass Listen to catch the sounds of struggle
1d20 + 17 = 15 + 17 = 32.))
*Something was amiss this night. Merkass prowls outside their encampment, searching for any would be interlopers. Something foul was carried in the air, but ever more the stench of evil wafted throughout the lands. However, this night is different. The smell is strong, and it is close. Merkass unslings the bow from his back, and searches for its source.*
((Refresher on Scent of Evil, with a nifty table of ranges
Merkass gains the scent ability for creatures with evil alignments. He knows of the presence of evil creatures based on wind direction and power based on the following table (in feet)

CODE
Upwind Normal Downwind Normal 15 30 60 Strong 30 60 120 Overwhelming 45 90 180

Merkass can spend a move action learn the direction from which the scent comes from.
Normally, Merkass automatically learns the source of the evil when within 5'. However, Nemesis (Evil) allows him to automatically pinpoint an evil source within 60 as if having used detect evil for 3 rounds (barriers are not a factor).))

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Tue Aug 08, 2006 7:57 pm
Lilah notes a pair of cats prowling near her. Though Merkass failed to spot the creatures earlier, his ability to smell corruption kept him alert. As he follows the smell, he notes he is returning from his patrol area to the camp. Finally, he stops, his senses informing him that the creature responsible for the foul stench of evil is only a few feet away and a... tabby cat?
Cedric brings his hammer down on the cat, but instead of a normal death, the cat roars and grows into a towering humanoid with bronze skin and molten yellow eyes. Then the creature explodes in a hail of ash and sand, Cedric's blow too much for it.
Kethra suddenly feels very odd, as does Lilah, Merkass, and Ashathel.
((Fort saves.))

Posted by: Rusty Tue Aug 08, 2006 8:20 pm
((This takes place earlier.)) "That is good to hear," Damas says with a sigh of relief. It made him happy to see others happy, but he could not be sure if it was just a facade or not. The sorcerer's lips curl into a frown for a moment as he ponders the bard's question about his wellbeing. He rubs his chin a little, and his ruby red eyes shift to the sky for a moment before looking at Faralon again. "There is no need for concern, I am holding up well, all things considered." Damas' gaze shifts to Cedric. "I am more worried about Cedric, truth be told."
: "Cedric...Yes, we should be concerned about him. After all, what he experienced back there in that battle against Shailtor...Though two of his family still live, I fear it will take a great amount of time and sacrifice to get them to talk easily with each other again. Shailtor did not simply take a life...he shattered Cedric's family to the core. Cedric grows more weary with each passing
day, and he's getting worse at hiding it, as well...He needs this war to end more than any of us, I think."
*Faralon shakes his head.*
: "It's not difficult to see that...We all know it, but we speak not of it, for we can communicate with our eyes. I'm surprised Cedric hasn't burned out from all of this...But only time will tell, I suppose."
Damas sighs, and turns back to Faralon. "You're right, only time will tell..." The sorcerer rubs his temple a little bit as he continues to speak. "I just pray that we can help him through this... It seems unlikely that he is going to be able to handle this alone...not for much longer..."
*Faralon nods.*
: "Hopefully he'll ask us for help when he needs it, but I don't expect him to. It would be easier if he did, however, so that we might know what he will need. For now, he seems to seek alone time, which worries me a bit."
: "It worries me, as well. This is very much unlike him."

Posted by: Dark Maiden Tue Aug 08, 2006 8:59 pm
(7 + 9 = 16)

Posted by: Aldur Tue Aug 08, 2006 9:48 pm
Sulia frowned, looking around and saw Cedric destroy a cat from a little distance away. She was rather confused. "Whatever is going on?"

Posted by: FreedomJu Wed Aug 09, 2006 1:25 am
Van's eyes stared straight ahead, not in despair or anything, but rather out of having nothing else to look at. As far as he could see there was only desert around him, and as such his only option was to keep walking in the direction that Derrik's apprentice had pointed him towards and hope that indeed, his friends were there.

Posted by: Kaihaku Wed Aug 09, 2006 10:48 pm
Lilah frowns, shaking her head as the feeling comes over her. [FORT SAVE: 11 + 9 = 20] Cedric pauses for a moment to reflect on the cat, then looks up with a frown, "The cats are evil shape shifters of some sort. Slay them." [Knowledge(Religion): 10 + 12 = 22]
[Knowledge(Planes): 5 + 7 = 12]

Posted by: Rusty Wed Aug 09, 2006 11:17 pm
((Bardic Knowledge FTW! 13 + 11 (level) + 1 (INT) = 25. For whatever is needed to identify it. Spot check: 19 - 1 = 18.)) *Faralon watches as the creature Cedric slew reverted to its original form for a second.* : "Cedric...That's an Efreeti."

Posted by: DragonmasterDon1 Thu Aug 10, 2006 2:31 am
((Spot: 17 Level 0 - 4 = 4 - Resistance, Light, Mage Hand, Read Magic Level 1 - 4 (+1) = 5 - Mage Armor, Protection from Evil, Magic Missile, Magic Missile, Ray of Enfeeblement Level 2 - 4 (+1) = 5 - Acid Arrow, Scorching Ray, Mirror Image, Flaming Sphere, Invisibility
Level 3 - 4 (+1) = 5 - Sleet Storm, Dispel Magic, Bolt, Bolt, Freeze 2
Level 4 - 3 (+1) = 4 - Scorching Ray (Maximized), Ice Storm, Freeze 3, Stoneskin
Level 5 - 2 = 2 - Blaze 4, Summon Monster V
Level 6 - 1 (+1) = 2 - Disintegrate, Cat's Grace (mass)
Ring of Minor Spell Storing: Haste))

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Thu Aug 10, 2006 2:53 am
Simone looks up, directly at the cats, face paling. "That's... That's not right..." she whispers. Then she shouts at the two animals. "GET AWAY!" "Quickly!" an urgent voice comes as Simone and Lilah turn to see Derrik Swiftjoke behind them, beckoning urgently. "The camp isn't secure, the both of you need to come with me quickly! You need to get to a safer place while they duke it out."
-------------
As he sneaks away, Zook sees a replica of himself addressing his pupils. He seems to be reciting a lesson of sorts, and the tinkers are paying attention to their idol. All except for Musril, who shakes his head at the figure.
"That's not him... It can't be him, that theory is all wrong!" Musril urges the others, but none listen.
----------
"Hehehehehe... Why'd you have to kill my minion? Needed an appetizer? Come on then, if you think you can..." Shailtor says, appearing before Cedric, eyes gleaming.
Faralon notices some sand going through the Strife Lord and realizes this is an illusion.
-----------
Ashathel sees Cedric before him, gesturing to the desert.
"Ashathel, with me. Swiftly! One of the others saw something this way, we need to check it, make sure it isn't a threat," the paladin says. As his brother did, Ashathel realizes it is an illusion when the warrior fails to make any footprints in the sand.
-----------
Kethra sees a mysterious man beckon to her from across teh sands, but can tell it is an illusion.

Posted by: Aldur Thu Aug 10, 2006 3:08 am
BLOOPER REEL

Posted by: Kaihaku Thu Aug 10, 2006 3:46 am
The Lillend glances around with a frown, then nods, "Thy words are correct..." She holds out her bag of holding to Simone, "Thou shall climb inside, I will carry thee to safety." "All right..." Simone frowns at the bag. "Is... Is it safe in there? Enough air? Things like that?"
Lilah glances around seriously, "Thou couldst survive only a short time if thou didst enter the bag completely...however, I would have thee catch thy arms over the edge and thus hang only partially in the bag so that my movement might not be hindered and thou wouldst be further protected from attack."
"Oh, OK," Simone nods, climbing in and shivering. "It's cold in here."
"Thou are fortunate then that the night is warm..." Lilah waits until Simone is positioned in the bag, then nods to Derrik, "Where wouldst thou hath me flee, for my speed is greater than thy own unless thou hast some secret means of travel."
"There," Derrik gestures. "Go straight, then you should come to an oasis, eventually. You should see it from the air. I'll meet you there."
Lilah stretches forth her pure white wings and soars upwards through the night sky, before she then begins to make her way in the direction she was told.
...
Cedric hesitates for a moment, then a cold smirk crosses his face while his eyes smolder with hatred, "We both know I can...or have you forgotten?" The Paladin tightens his grip on his hammer, his eyes narrowing and a faint outline of energy forming around him. He seems to grow stronger, greater, as he braces himself and then with sudden ferocity lashes out.
[Power Attack 5]
[Attack 1: 12 + ...]
[Attack 2: 12 + ...] (Odd...)

Posted by: Aldur Thu Aug 10, 2006 4:00 am
"Cedric? What are you doing? Now is not the time to be slashing at the air!" Sulia looked on in surprise as Cedric began swiping at air and talking to things she couldn't see.

Posted by: Rusty Thu Aug 10, 2006 4:04 am
: "Cedric, you're wasting your energy! That's not Shailtor. It's a mere illusion...But if you killed the Efreeti, and we're just now seeing this, perhaps there are others nearby."

Posted by: Aldur Thu Aug 10, 2006 4:07 am
Sulia frowned, and then saw it. The thing that Cedric was attacking. Of course. How could she be so blind. She shook her head at Faralon. "Nay friend! It fits the description! Attack all! It is him!" ((Att1: 4+... Att2 6+ ... Stupid will save. D:))

Posted by: Dark Maiden Thu Aug 10, 2006 4:54 am
Damas comes out into the open and looks around. The sorcerer rubs his eyes and looks around. His eyes widen when he sees what he thinks is Shailtor, but he is not fooled. "Do not be deceived! That is naught but an illusion!" [Will save: 14 + 12 = 26]
Kethra stares out into the desert at the form beckoning for her, until she realizes that it is an illusion. She then goes to join the others and looks around, attempting to spot any foes that could be hiding and making these illusions.
[Would that be Search, or Spot? (Search: 12 + 1 (INT) = 13) or (Spot: 8 + 15 = 23)]

Posted by: Arcdragnbreth Thu Aug 10, 2006 5:21 am
"You're kidding, right?" the swashbuckler said, pulling the force blade free. "You'd better be taking me to whoever cast this rather poor excuse for a spell so I can introduce them to my little friend."

Posted by: Knight_019 Fri Aug 11, 2006 5:23 am
((1d20 + 11 = 6 + 11 = 17.))

Posted by: Kaihaku Sat Aug 12, 2006 1:04 am
"DAMNIT!!!" Cedric cries out in rage, lashing out at the sand around his feet before turning and breaking into a sprint, "Wyvern, Nemesis! Kill the fiendish cats! Leviathan! Find our ward and protect her!" His eyes are consumed with hatred and desperation, "Phoenix! Dispell these illusions before they drive us to distraction!"

Posted by: Dark Maiden Sat Aug 12, 2006 1:34 am
((It's times like this that I wish Damas had Dispel Magic))

Posted by: DragonmasterDon1 Sat Aug 12, 2006 1:56 am
Realizing what was going on about their camp, Isyndel quickly began weaving the air about her with a whisper of words before releasing a burst about the camp. ((Dispel Magic cast in Burst form. d20 = 14 + Caster Level (Max10) = 24))

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Sat Aug 12, 2006 1:57 am
Kethra spots a cat... Just as it morphs into a large humanoid with bronze skin and molten eyes! The same happens to Merkass' cat, and one of the two cats near Zook! Finally, another Efreeti reveals itself near Cedric, the illusion of Shailtor standing and laughing at him.
Edit: Isyndel's burst of antimagic causes the illusion of Shailtor to vanish, but the 20 feet radius is insufficient to cover the entire camp.

Posted by: Dark Maiden Sat Aug 12, 2006 3:25 am
"There you are..." Kethra moves towards the Efreeti that she saw and punches the outsider. [Attack 1: 15 + 8 (BAB) + 2 (STR) = 25. Hit Damage: 9 + 2 (STR) = 11] "So, you finally reveal your true forms..."
Damas begins to weave arcane symbols in the air, and speak words of power. A small blue orb appears in his hand, and he throws it at the Efreeti near Kethra.
[Ranged Touch: 17 + 5 (BAB) + 3 (DEX) - 4 (Ally in melee) = 21. Hit
Damage: 8 + 7 + 5 + 3 + 6 x 1.5 = 43 cold damage]

Posted by: Knight_019 Sat Aug 12, 2006 3:31 am
*Merkass hisses, then slinks away from the efreeti, raising his bow before his face. With amazing rapidity, Merkass knocks and fires three arrows in succession, each barrelling through the genie's form. He remains slightly crouched at the knees, ready to leap from the way of incoming danger. With each arrow, a green glow pulses from the small, fist-sized orb he carries.*
((5' step back, Rapid Shot, fight defensively.
1d20 + 20 + 1 (PBS) - 2 - 4 = 13 + 15 = 28.
1d20 + 10 = 11 + 10 = 21.
1d20 + 15 = 6 + 15 = 21.
Damage
1d8 + 5 + 1d6 (Exit Wound) + 1d6 (Nemesis) + 1d6 (Rancor) + 1 (Favored Enemy) + 1 (PBS) + 10 (orb) = 2 + (2 + 4 + 5) + 17 = 30.
1d8 + 2d6 + 17 = 7 + (1 + 3) + 17 = 28.
1d8 + 2d6 + 17 = 7 + (2 + 6) + 17 = 32.
Please note that it takes 1 point of CON damage with each attack. By the second hit it will lose 1 hp/HD. The second arrow might kill it as a result.))

Posted by: Kaihaku Mon Aug 14, 2006 9:07 pm
Cedric grunts in ire and moves over to his enemy, lashing out mightily. [Attack 1: 14 + 17 = 31] [Damage: 8 + 13 +1 + 4 = 22 + 5 [Elec] ] [Attack 2: 12 + 12 = 24] [Damage: 2 + 13 +1 + 5 = 16 + 5 [Elec]

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Mon Aug 14, 2006 9:23 pm
Musril looks past the illusory Zook and sees the genuine article creeping out of his tent. "Sir!" he hisses. "There's something going on! You see this illusion?" Zook looked over, eyes narrowing, and he wheels around, firing two shots at one of the cats that had just failed to detect him. White flame spews from the barrel of his rifle and white smoke rises from the feline intruder as both shots connect.
[Attack roll 1: 12 + 19 = 31. Hit
Damage roll 1: 5+1+4+5+2+5+1 = 23 damage, 7 of which is holy
Attack roll 2: 11 + 14 = 25. Hit
Damage roll 2: 2+3+1+6+6+5+1 = 23 damage, 12 of which is holy
grand total of 46 damage, 19 of which is holy]

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Mon Aug 14, 2006 9:44 pm
Merkass's arrows slice through the Efreeti, causing him to roar before dying, crumbling into a pile of ash and sand. Zook's rifle shots strike the cat, who hisses before vanishing. Cedric's blows causes his Efreeti foe to stagger back in confusion before uttering a word of power and vanishing from the scene.

Posted by: Kaihaku Mon Aug 14, 2006 9:49 pm
[Spot: 1...+whatever] Cedric curses and glances around intently, only to wince as the desert sand blows into his eyes. Stumbling, he rubs his eyes while issuing commands, "Secure the camp! Quickly!" ... Lilah begins flying in the direction of the Oasis.

Posted by: Aldur Mon Aug 14, 2006 10:02 pm
Sulia frowns, as she moves about the camp, frowning a little to herself. She quickly moved around, a tad off kilter from the illusions earlier. She looked around for Simone or Lilah, having not heard the ususally talkative, even during battle bard around.
((Spot: 15.))
"Where is Lilah?"

Posted by: DragonmasterDon1 Tue Aug 15, 2006 2:39 am
You were lucky they did not mistake you for one of those creatures. Or perhaps I was just unlucky. From a bit further off, if it were possible, Sleet grinned at the sound of "the master's" voice.

Posted by: Nightmare Wed Aug 16, 2006 3:04 am
((Spot: D20 + 11 = 11 + 11 = 22)) During all the confusion, Laika stayed silent, and off to the side. That was, until he spotted Lilah flying away with Simone towards the desert. The werewolf couldn't see how taking their new friend towards danger could help them protect her from harm. "Lilah! What are you doing?!" Laka howls out towards her as he chases her, hoping to slow her down temporarily and alos to get the attention of the rest of the camp, who don't seem to notice her escape.
Aloft on wings of the purest white, Lilah glances down with a frown as her name is called, "Derrik has told me to take Simone to safety!" She looks off in the direction of the oasis, "Drive off our attackers and I will keep my ward from harm!"
"What are you talking about? You're bringing her towards our enemies! Not away from them!" Laika exclaims as he keeps going all out in order to keep up with the Lilend "Not to mention we haven't even seen Derrik since we first found Simone!"

Posted by: Knight_019 Wed Aug 16, 2006 3:32 am
*Merkass quickly searches through the remains of the now cleansed efreet for any clues it might have carried. Without delay, he takes off with great haste around the encampment, searching for any trace of evil that might still remain.* ((Listen: 5 + 17 = 22.
Search (tracks): 19 + 19 = 38.
Spot: 14 + 17 = 31.
Try to find any tracks leading away, or any enemies that might still be in the vicinity.
Merkass knows the exact location of any evil creature of which he comes within 60', or vice-versa.))

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Wed Aug 16, 2006 5:05 am
Merkass notes the slightest imprints and vague scent of catpaws walking away from where Lilah was. Of the Lillend herself, there is no trace save for scattered sand where she took flight.

Posted by: Kaihaku Wed Aug 23, 2006 5:51 am
"Wait! He's right! Look at him! He's all wavy!" Simone suddenly yells. The Lillend frowns and displeasure lights in her eyes. With a mighty flap she comes to a halt hovering high in the air, looking down with annoyance. Then she turns and flies back to the camp with a frown.
Cedric clears the sand from his eyes with a dark scowl but seems relieved as the Lillend reappears with Simone.
She shrugs helplessly, "I wast deceived by tricks not unlike my own."
The Paladin nods grimly then glances around at the others, "Nemesis, hunt down the remainder of this fiends. I want them dead. All of them."

Posted by: DragonmasterDon1 Wed Aug 23, 2006 10:41 pm
"Cedric," the wizardess interjected. "That is an unnecessary risk that I urge you to reconsider. The creatures possess the ability to alter their physical form and have already proven able to befuddle the senses. Sending a few people across the desert in this wretched sandstorm to pursue them is foolish," Isyndel spoke firmly, narrowing her eyes as she examined him. Folding her arms before her, she continued. "You are a man of great good, one whom the better of us have followed nearly blindly for some time. You cannot afford to be blinded yourself."
She continued to watch him, offering no further explanation to the last of her words in hopes that their meaning would be conveyed otherwise.

Posted by: Kaihaku Wed Aug 23, 2006 11:28 pm
A hint of strong dark emotion flashes across the face of the Paladin as the wizardess makes the claim that most of the group have followed him blindly. His eyes narrow but after a moment, he speaks in a flat emotionless voice through clentched teeth, "Very well. I'll leave them to slaughter and kill those who can't put an end to their evil." He turns away from Iysndel and looks around at the others, "I want double guards for the remainder of the night. Tomorrow we break camp an hour before dawn." He slides his hammer back into place on his back, "Get some rest while you can." He then walks over to his bed roll and lays down closing his eyes.
Lilah stares after him with a concerned frown, then pulls Simone from the bag and sighs, "Rest, I shall watch over thee." She then glances at the elven wizardess, "It wast wise of thee to question that course of action..." She reaches into the bag at her side and pulls forth a broach, "Do not allow the words of his hardened heart to cause you shame. Here, this is a badge of valor, please accept it as my thanks for speaking thy mind so openly."
((Thank you for posting Don. Nicely done. You get a Badge of Valor. CADV 132
TUM, shall we move?))

Posted by: DragonmasterDon1 Thu Aug 24, 2006 1:41 am
Her arms still folded, Isyndel held her gaze stoically, her features not faltering until the man had walked away. His words stung, a sensation she had anticipated without bracing herself for their impact. She bit her lip even as Lilah began to speak before bowing slowly in acceptance of her gift. Isyndel nodded once, suddenly aware of the eyes and ears upon those around her, instinctively clutching her arms about her more tightly. She turned on her heels and walked in the direction of Kyoji, her eyes to the ground.
"Once again I am right," she said bluntly to him under her breath as she passed by. "I am unfit for this sort of thing."
She continued on, searching for a place to be alone.

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Thu Aug 24, 2006 2:31 am
"No... You were fine, but words alone can't heal Cedric..." Kyoji whispers to Isyndel as she walks by. "I don't think any of us can..." -------- Shortly after the fight, Lisa approaches Zook. "Zook," Lisa addresses the gnome. "Yes?" Zook asks.
"How is the progress on the device?" Lisa asks.
Zook looks confused for a moment. "You mean the spy device?"
"Yes."
The gnome rubs his eyes, trying to remember where he'd put it. Comprehension hits him like a static shock and he shudders. "I gave it to Cedric for safekeeping while I finalized an installation on ADAM."
Lisa pauses for a moment.
"You... haven't worked on it?"
Zook shakes his head. "I returned it to Cedric this afternoon, who's got it in a bag of holding, I think. I needed another day to finish installing a few very delicate components before I could begin sky trials on ADAM. Cedric came to me not long after we made camp and asked me about the possibility of reversing the signal."
Lisa sighs and nods. "Thank you. That is all I needed to know."
-----------
"Thank you, Lilah," Simone whispers to the Lillend as she curls up and attempts to fall asleep, a haunted expression on her face even as she finally begins to doze...
------------
Another two days pass as the group makes its way across the seemingly endless sands.
((Two days for interaction.))

Posted by: Dark Maiden Thu Aug 24, 2006 2:33 am
Damas stands there in shock, unable to say anything. He cannot not believe what Isyndel just said, nor could he believe Cedric's reaction. Isyndel has been a little harsh to him in the past, but Damas knows full well that it was probably for his own good. Cedric, on the other hand, never did seem to be the harsh type of person.
Isyndel was probably right, and her boldness is admirable. Cedric is a totally different person from the noble man I have come to know him as. I pray that we can help him, somehow...
((The post sucks, but it's something I'll post other things later, maybe))

Posted by: Aldur Thu Aug 24, 2006 2:49 am
As Isyndel spoke Sulia remained quiet. And when Cedric replied with venom she sighed, wondering what could do that to the man. Over the course of the next few days, once she found an opportune moment to speak...she spoke. To Cedric. "May I have a word Sir Cedric?"

Posted by: Nightmare Thu Aug 24, 2006 4:20 am
Laika heads back to the camp much more carfully than he had left it. Probably due to the fact that he wasn't chasing a Lillend who was trying to deliver the girl they promised to protect to the things they were protecting her from. Or maybe he just wanted to pretend to be Kyoji. No one but Laika could really know, as he was nowhere near anyone who could use a sense motive check on him. Not that it'd reveal much. As Laika was one of those characters that was merely there to fill out the group, he had no major impact on the group. But perhaps that would all change.
After he finally returrned to the camp, Laika only saw the aftermath of the exchange between Isyndel and Cedric. But whatever happened left an odd feeling amongst the group, perhaps "tension" would be the word to describe it. Yes, tension was the proper choice.
The follower of Voltron went back to his designated area of the camp and prayed to his God until it was his turn for guard duty.

Posted by: Kaihaku Thu Aug 24, 2006 3:45 pm
The Paladin looks up cleaning the sand from his armor with an intent frown, "Yes." He sets aside the pick he had been using and waits for Sulia to continue. "I was wondering Sir Cedric, after you've finished with your armour would you mind sparring with me?" Sulia smiled easily, Mace in hand by way of an explaination. "I find it clears my head."
Cedric is silent for a moment, then a tired smile crosses his face, "I would be glad to." He looks down at his armor, "When we had just begun this expedition, we would often spar amongst ourselves as a means of training." He shakes his head, "I'll have this sand out in a moment..." He sets back to work and is finished in a few minutes.
Cedric and Sulia make their way to the edge of the camp. There the Paladin draws his hammer, locking it in place on his gauntlet with chains, "Any preference on the rules of combat?"
Sulia smiles, her Mace raised and ready, shaking her head as she thought it over. "No, none that I really mind. Aside from No magic. But I assumed that was a staple anyway..."
The Paladin nods, "I have trained my body and spirit to empower me. If you wish to cast spells that would accomplish the same for you, I am not opposed." He leans on his hammer with a frown, looking out into the distance, "Also, shall we weaken our blows to avoid harm as is generally done or count on magic to seal what wounds we cause?"
Sulia frowned at this and grinned sheepishly, and nodded. "I'd prefer we weaken our blows. You never know what could appear and the spell could be needed. So then...if you'll allow me, I'll just..." She trailed off into silence, casting a small spell on herself. "There. All I need really. Shall we...begin?"
Cedric nods, "A wise decision... I shall will my weapon to no longer course with lightning in that case." He takes a step back and holds up his hammer defensively, "Let us fight with honor."
Sulia leaps forwards closing the distance between the two, lashing with her mace, a serious expression on her face as her blow lands, the mace hitting off the Man's armour and she smiled then, the battle having begun. She then attempts to hit again, pressing her advantage, tutting to herself as the second blow fails to connect with the nimble Paladin.
Cedric slides with the blow, his face intent and focused, spinning around and lashing out with a heavy but restrained blow. His hammer clashes against the armor of the favored of the light mightily, yet it does not explode in lightning as it normal does. His eyes then narrow and wisps of energy begin to trace around him, strengthening his frame.
Sulia winces as the heavy blow lands, attempting to retaliate with one of her own, her blow landing on the Paladin of Mitula, her face frowning as her follow up misses Cedric again, Sulia quickly trying to get back in defensive mode.
Theodoric steps after Sulia, mightily striking out with his hammer, then he takes a step back and quickly studies the battle stance of the woman, "You strike well but you need more power behind your blows." He holds his hammer at the ready, "Come at me."
Sulia smiled at this, and nodded in agreement. "I can hit quite well, even those that are incorporeal...it's my speciality. I don't usually need the amount of Strength I require now for them..." She steps forwards, attacking much more aggressively this time...however the added power means that both blows miss horribly. "Darn!"
Cedric makes no attempt at a counter attack, nodding with an intent frown, "Keep an eye open for weak spots and exploit them. Follow through with your blows." He braces himself for the next assault, holding his hammer defensively.
Sulia nods, studying Cedric slowly for a moment, and then, much faster before, lunges in, her mace barreling into his armour and clanging off, Sulia using the backlash from it to connect on the other side, a smile now on her face. "Like so?"
Despite the blows landing powerfully in quick succession, the Paladin seems unphased and responds in the same calm voice, "Yes, nicely done." He readied his hammer and lashes out once, a blow restrained but powerful, "You need still need to work on causing more damage..." A hint of something darker passes through his eyes, "It's important to kill an enemy as quickly as possible."
Sulia groans, stumbling back and shaking her head. "I do not believe that that is always...the best way to do things." She levelled her mace at him and frowned, stepping forwards to attack again, her conviction clearly shown as her weapon slams against the Paladin's armour. "Sometimes you can show them the error of their ways and deepen the light in their soul."
His eyes narrowing, Cedric lashes out at the favored of light with vehemence, "If we were to examine what one might call the souls of fiends, I'm certain you'd find no light there." His blow misses as Sulia steps to the side and with irritation, the Paladin backlashes at her, "The light can have only one approach to fiends, destruction. Only fools think otherwise." This blow also misses, leaving Cedric staring grimly at the woman before him.
Sulia smiles sadly, easily moving to one side and then the other as the angry Paladin misses. "Even the smallest, most insignificant light can dispel the deepest darkness. Redemption can find anyone...don't you see? Someone else needs to show them that they too can find salvation." She stares boldly at Cedric, his face rather disconcerning, so much so her first blow misses and her faces hardens as she swings her weapon back around, connecting against the Paladin, albeit not with not very much force.
"You're wrong." Cedric replies with cold certainty, "Treasure that ignorance... If you continue with us, you'll lose it quickly." He lashes out but misses the agile maiden once again, "There is absolute irredeemable evil..." He strikes at her again only to miss, his face growing more frustrated, "...and we're charging straight into it." He stands frown after both of his assaults missed, "If you really are of the light, you will have to confront and destroy the darkness. Not redeem it."
Sulia continues to evade, that same sad smile on her face. "I am aware of my duty. And if they cannot be swayed...I shall end their misery." She lashed out, striking a heavy blow that made her arm shiver, but she pressed on, pushing her advantage, sending Cedric back, eyes filled with Holy zeal, her body beginning to shine as the familiar halo appeared. "And yet...Cedric. I feel that the light in your soul shines dimmer and dimmer the further we press on. As a follower of Mitula, you must see! You are scaring your comrades! They are slowly becoming afraid of your growing dark side! I beseech you! Remember how you used to be!" She gripped her mace tightly, face set as the final blow came down, crashing into the weakened Paladin...
...and so, while preaching about redemption and mercy, Sulia clocks Cedric over the head. The Paladin lands with a thud, out like a light.
((Make note of this, never show mercy to anyone. It'll just get you clocked in the end.))

Posted by: Aldur Thu Aug 24, 2006 3:47 pm
((Sorry Kai. My insane luck appears to be intact. =D ))

Posted by: Kaihaku Thu Aug 24, 2006 3:53 pm
((Insane luck? I didn't full attack for all but the last two rounds, didn't attack at all for a round, and didn't use my second buff. It was mercy not luck...except for a few bad rolls by me at the end.)) Lilah watches the two holy warriors spar from some distance away, arching her eyebrow as they clang again and again aganist one another. Yet, they seem careful not to draw blood and to avoid harming one another too greatly. She rubs her finely shaped chin with a curious frown, then plays a few strings on her harp idly while she continues to observe.

Posted by: Aldur Thu Aug 24, 2006 4:07 pm
((She never asked for it. And six rolls isn't just a few.))

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Fri Aug 25, 2006 1:26 am
Early that afternoon, Zook took the spyeye from Cedric to examine it. He was able to discern its basic functionality, but otherwise the design was alien to him. Unable to reverse a signal through the deactivated homing device and reticent to attempt to turn it back on, the tinker hands it off to Lisa, so that she may scry through it, before returning to ADAM.
http://www.shinola.radh.com/guest/Vox/Richard%20Wagner%20-%20Ride%20of%20the%20Valkyries.mp3
His aides backed away from the armor as he clambered inside. Whispers washed through the assembly like tiny ball bearings into a bucket while Zook checked to make sure the proper configurations were all in place. Abruptly there was a shudder, a creak, and turbines affixed to the armor's back whirred rapidly to life. Elevons on ADAM's appendages turned at Zook's touch, and slowly, carefully, the entire apparatus rose into the air, sand swirling all around. The other tinkers all covered their faces to shield themselves against the abrasive kickoff, except for Musril, who cheered as the armor ascended. Eventually it rose high enough that the sand no longer stung the eyes of onlookers, and they joined Musril in cheering.
Meanwhile, Zook was in the cockpit, tense and terrified. He had yet to open his eyes. He gulped as the cheers rose to greet him, and a most curious sensation -- the popping of his eardrums -- caused him to furrow his brow in curiousity. He grabbed at his ears, attempting to duplicate the effect by twisting them, for several seconds before he realized he'd let go of the controls. With a yelp he scrambled to reach them, not remembering that he had moved them lower in the cockpit to install a new windshield. He opened his eyes to look for them, and caught a glimpse of the view.
ADAM gleamed silver-white over a hundred feet off the ground, standing out like a new star in the midday sky. But the only color the gnome saw was blue -- clear, brilliant azure, the stuff of sonnets written by poets long past on lazy summer days. And he was here, above it. He trembled, and his shaking hands finally found the controls at last. He touched a switch, and the turbines rotated, allowing him forward movement.
"I can fly." he said to himself in a small voice just above a whisper. "I can fly." The goodbye note left on his uncle's empty bed, the crumped ornithopter in the peaks of the Cypress mountains, all of the failures and loss fell away, until there was only the creator and his creation, streaking through the sky.
"I CAN FLY!!!!" he screamed, tears streaming down his face as he roared over the camp again and again. Zook's cackles cut the air even more sharply than the whine of the turbines as he flew. "I CAN FLY!!!!"

Posted by: Arcdragnbreth Fri Aug 25, 2006 4:59 am
"What the hell is all this no-" Ashathel began, moving to the crowd, before he noted their cheering. Looking up at where they pointed, he saw what seemed to be an oversized man floating in the sky. It took a few moments, but eventually he made out the form of ADAM, now airborne and piloted by the gnome who'd spoken of this day many times before.
"Well I'll be damned," he said, shaking his head as he smiled. Then, getting an idea, he withdrew his flute and began to play a light, airy tune. One by one the tinkers began to dance happily, some not bad while others were downright horrble. In an astounding display of footwork, Musril joined in and put all others to shame. Now stimulated, the elf too began to dance a little, playing his song as the skies welcomed their newest occupant.
((Perform [wind instrument]: 1d20 +5 (ranks) = 16
Perform [dance]: 1d20 +5 (ranks) = 15))

Posted by: DragonmasterDon1 Fri Aug 25, 2006 5:09 am
As the morning grew to afternoon, Isyndel Rhoe'wyn casually nestled herself not far off from Zook and the Zooklings to watch them at work. Ever since the light display all had witnessed she had reaffirmed her silent appreciation of the gnome's tireless devotion to his art. Whenever the group was not travelling she found herself sitting with her knees tucked into her chest watching out of casual intrigue.
And then it happened.
Her eyes widened as the machined roared to life; her breaths grew quiet as she slowly leaned forward in anticipation. The shock of the machine taking off caused her to gasp and rear back in amazement. She threw her hands behind her to brace the sudden shift as air that fled her lungs in a gasp sought it's way back through her again.
The machine continued to move.
The Wizardess grinned almost ear-to-ear, pushing herself to her feet without so much as wiping the sand from her skirts as she ran forward a few steps, azure eyes locked to the sky. She watched in complete and utter fascination as it soared, occasionally losing sight of it for whatever reason.
She was reminded of words by a sudden echo on the air about her, or perhaps by nothing at all, but she was reminded just the same.
It's strange, for those like you and I whose craft comes through study, to realize that the greatest achievements of scholars come in fits of inspired creativity.
Isyndel giggled uncharacteristically at how much it pleased her that the gnome seemed so wrong in a way at that moment.

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Fri Aug 25, 2006 5:29 am
Yeesha claps her hands and cheers as the machine ascends, a happy grin lighting her face as Zook ascended. Simone too, claps and laughs by the sight before her. Kyoji leans against the cart, eyes watching the gnome go skyward. His eyes divert momentarily as Isyndel giggles, a rare sound for the studious spellcaster. After a moment, the ninja's eyes return to the sky, a ghost of a smile on his masked face.

Posted by: Kaihaku Fri Aug 25, 2006 5:36 am
"Sir Cedric," Lisa asks, approaching the paladin. Cedric turns to Lisa, his eyes distracted and a frown across his face, "Yes? What is it?" Lisa frowns upon seeing Cedric's face. "What's wrong?" "The world is descending into darkness." The Paladin replies flatly, "What can I do for you?"
"Nothing. I am returning this," Lisa says, handing Cedric the implant taken from Gabriel. "I was unsuccessful at using it to find Shailtor using scrying. There wasn't enough of a connection."
"I wouldn't be concerned about it..." Cedric takes back the device with a slight frown, "...there is no doubt in my mind that we'll encounter Shailtor again in the future." His voice is darkly confident, "Yes, we'll see him again. He has a vendetta against us that won't be satisfied until all of us are broken."
"Yes... perhaps," Lisa says. "I will be leaving you. I don't know if we will meet again, likely as it is with our mutual goal. If we do not meet again, luck be with you on your journey."
"Moving too slowly for you or..." Cedric chuckles wearily, "...abandoning a sinking boat?"
"Neither, but sometimes where a broadsword fails, the hidden dagger might succeed," Lisa says, crossing her arms. "You have no real need of me and I can take care of myself. It is more efficient this way."
"Reason as you will." Cedric replies wearily, "However, if you want, do me one last favor. It might take a few days to accomplish." Cedric places the device in a bag of holding, though he doesn't have one personally, so they can continue to talk in security.
"What is it?"
"I want to disguise the girl Simone as you..." Cedric replies lowly, "If you would avoid detection or become unrecognizable to the enemy, it would help matters." He rubs his eyes, "This is only part of a plan I've been working out but there's no reason to explain it fully to you. I wish you the best."
"I will try, but it won't work... At least not to a degree. Who do you intend to fool?"
"Because she lacks your power?" Cedric replies in a low grim voice, "I only need to buy us some time...and to send a message. Even Strife Lords make mistakes."
"No, nothing to do with power..." Lisa says, frowning. "I meant that question. Do you just intend to fool the rank and file soldiers or are you trying to out-trick the trickster?"
"Why does it matter? Either way it puts us in no worse of a position than before." The Paladin shrugs wearily, "I had not counted on your leaving but it's a windfall in at least one way."
Lisa sighs. "Very well. You want me to stay for a few days so that you can prepare a disguise?"
"Yes..." The Paladin nods with a slight frown, "I considered asking you to take the girl into your care but clearly you have other objections in mind." He looks up at the sky, "I'll have to contact the merchant in order for this to work... I was avoiding it until he contacted us or we learned his motives in hunting the girl."
"You speak much of this merchant... What do you know about him?"
"It is not just doubt that halts me." Cedric replies quietly, speaking his thoughts distantly, "Of all of creation, he alone seems to be matching our enemies. I fear to place all of our hopes and fears in one set of hands." He sighs wearily, "...there have been too many betrayals, not just of alligence. Those we trusted in for guidance and protection are easily overcome." He glances at his gaunleted hands, "Now...all that remains is to trust in is ourselves."
"That is the hardest one to trust, but often the most beneficial," Lisa says, softly.
"All the more pain when it is broken." Cedric replies coldly, then he glances at Lisa with a hint of kindness, "Thank you for your aid. I appreciate your aid for just a bit longer but I understand your feelings. Often I have felt them myself...but I am sworn to protect these..." His voice trails off.
"I know. The ones I have sworn to protect are already dead, so all that's left for me is vengeance. It is different for you."
"Not as different as you might think..." Cedric replies quietly, "My vows are all that keep me where love was once enough. Vows... Order... The things which keeps me sane." He shakes his head and looks away, "I speak too much... I must make preparations."
"Make sure you have a new reason to live once this war is over," Lisa says, quietly. "If you crumble after the fighting, that too is a victory for them."
"Don't preach... Not now." He looks up with a knowing smile, "I think we both know the odds of this war ending in such a fashion. Perhaps we can save something for a few innocent but...in the end... There's nothing but glory for the heroes...and oft not even that."

Posted by: Rusty Fri Aug 25, 2006 5:59 am
((Perform (Sing): 18 + 22 = 40 + Perform (Strings): 20 + 22 + 10 [natural 20 bonus?] = 52)) *Faralon's eyes gaze at Zook's invention with wonder and curiosity. ((Witness the power of the science!)) Inspired by the gnome's works, Faralon begins to play his lute for Zook, singing a song with the tune. Perhaps the inspiration of the dramatic event of Zook's invention had wired some heavenly chords to be struck. Regardless of its cause, Faralon played his best tune yet, and it was as if the wind stopped blowing to listen to the sublime melody.*
:
"A trail of smoke - the tail a flame,
The bird awoke - Zook called its name,
ADAM jet out - into the sky,
As Zook did shout - I can fly!
He conquered air - he conquered ground,
He did with flair - sharp moves and sound,
With passion of flame - small like a brook,
He will have fame - for he is Zook!"
((Also, Zook's tinker pals are now temporarily fanatics:
TheUnknownMarine: In addition to the obvious effects, any NPC whose attitude is fanatic gains a +2 morale bonus to Strength and Constitution scores, a +1 morale bonus on Will saves, and a -1 penalty to AC whenever fighting for the character or his or her cause. This attitude will remain for one day plus one day per point of the character’s Charisma bonus.
A total of 7 days.))

Posted by: Dark Maiden Fri Aug 25, 2006 6:55 am
Damas finds himself watching Zook and his assistants work. His eyes widen as the machine suddenly comes to life and takes flight. Damas stands up and grins broadly, wiping the sand off of his clothes. As he watches in awe and wonder, the Sorcerer claps his hands together and cheers.
"Whoo-hoo! Way to go, Zook!"
After a few minutes, Damas realizes that he may have shouted a little...too loud. A blush crosses his cheeks, and he grins sheepishly.
"Opps..."
[Placeholder for other scenes, since this will probably move before I can get a hold of the peeps I need to talk to ]

Posted by: Aldur Fri Aug 25, 2006 11:50 am
Sulia watches the machine ascend, stunned beyond belief, having not come into contact with much, if any machinery before. She watched mesmirised as the machine off and breathed out slowly. "Amazing...like a metal bird."

Posted by: Dark Maiden Sun Aug 27, 2006 8:52 am
Shortly after Faralon finishes playing his song, Kethra comes walking towards him. The two had not really talked since the battle with Shailtor. As soon as she gets close, she speaks. "Hello..." *Faralon looks into Kethra's eyes with a smile on his face as he replies.* "Hello, Kethra. Have you seen Zook flying? It's quite a sight."
"Yes, I have." Kethra smiles a little bit. "I'm actually amazed that there are flying machines to begin with, but I never thought I would see one."
*Faralon nods, smiling more as he sees her smile.* "I couldn't help but play a song to it. Very few could ever witness something like that in their lifetime. We're very lucky...Oh, I'm sorry. How are you faring? I know you're strong, but this is a rather exhausting journey."
"I'm fine, Faralon." Kethra chuckles. "It'll be nice to get out of this desert, though."
"Yeah...I'm sick of all this sand. The heat aside, it's very annoying having sand in your boots. Grass is so much nicer."
"Anything is better than sand," Kethra says sourly. "But grass is nice."
*Faralon nods, staring deep into Kethra's eyes.* "...I'm sorry we haven't had much alone time...Cedric's been down, and when he's away I have to take care of things. The devils have been relentless and we're being extra careful now...So we might not get to talk again until we reach the village."
"It's alright, Faralon. I understand." Kethra puts her hand on his shoulder.
*Faralon smiles, taking Kethra's other hand in his as his eyes remain fixated on hers.* "Thank you, Kethra...I go on fighting for you...no, with you. We'll end this terror...together."
Kethra looks into Faralon's eyes as she speaks, a smile spreading across her lips. "Yes, Faralon... We will end this terror...all of us together."
*Faralon, with Kethra's hand still in his, takes her hand to his chest.* "As long as this heart beats, I will fight on for you and all that we believe in. If fate is with me, I shall not die before the end of this chaos. If fate is not with you...I don't know what I'll do." *Faralon merely shakes his head, gazing into her eyes with a serious look on his face.*
"Faralon..." Kethra puts her other hand on his cheek. "I don't know what the future holds, or if we'll even survive... All I do know is that I care about you...more than anything...and so long as I live I'll fight to keep you safe."
*Faralon shakes his head.* "Don't worry about me - just do your part and keep yourself safe. Rarely have I been endangered in this whole expedition. Maybe the Strife Lords don't think of me as a threat, or perhaps I'm one lucky fellow. I guess it's also entirely possible they want me alive for some reason, but that's a disturbing thought itself...No, I'll be just fine. I'm not often on the front lines like you are...But, if you insist on keeping myself, then I, too, shall do my part to keep you safe...Of course, I will whether you insist or not." *Faralon chuckles lightly.*
"So even if I refuse, you shall to do anyway?" Kethra asks jokingly. "We can protect each other then... Just...one more thing..."
"Hmm? What is it?"
"Just this..." Kethra leans forward and kisses him.
*Faralon is taken back by the kiss at first, but then returns the kiss, taking his free hand to wrap it around her. As the kiss ends, he smiles, gazing into her eyes.* "Remind me to make sure we take breaks more often..."
Kethra chuckles a bit. "I'll...be sure to do that."
((Short and sweet, like it was meant to be))

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Mon Aug 28, 2006 6:43 am
With a clank ADAM touches down, and Zook leaps out, still bursting with excitement. He waves frantically at those assembled. "Did you see? Did you see?! I was flying!"

Posted by: DragonmasterDon1 Mon Aug 28, 2006 10:48 pm
"Well done, Zook," she spoke warmly, clapping her hands briefly. "Well done."

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Mon Aug 28, 2006 11:10 pm
Zook beams at the wizardess, but someone behind her catches his eye and he falters. He rubs his eyes and looks again. "...Van? How long have you been back?"

Posted by: FreedomJu Tue Aug 29, 2006 3:43 pm
A small smile crossed the warrior's face and where before there was only emptiness and pain in Van's eyes, one could now see a faint glimmer of hope. "Just now actually, Zook. I had just found you guys a couple of days ago moments before you started to move. Since they I have been trying to catch up." Van takes a moment to wipe the sweat off his forehead with the back of his hand before continuing. "I see the group has grown quite a bit, but first I need to let Cedric know I'm back, do you happen to know where he is now?"

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Tue Aug 29, 2006 9:24 pm
Zook furrowed his brow in confusion, unsure why the imposing figure in gleaming full plate would be hard to miss. The gnome points him out, and smiles. "Good to have you back."

Posted by: FreedomJu Wed Aug 30, 2006 2:26 am
Van twisted his head to the side and spotted Cedric out of the corner of his vision. I must have passed him while watching Zook's machine fly. The guisarme wielding warrior faced the gnome tinker once more. "Congratulations on your achievement Zook, and thanks." Turning away from the tinker, Van quickly made his way towards the Paladin with a grin on his face. "Hello again Cedric, good to see you."

Posted by: Kaihaku Thu Aug 31, 2006 6:18 pm
Cedric looks up at Van approaches, his visage noticeably darker than when last the fighter had seen him, "Hail friend." His voice though welcoming lacks the warmth of olden times, the Paladin glancing around with a frown, "Where is the merchant? Did he accompany you?" He pauses, looking at Van, "What of the state of your village?"
...
Lilah watches the mechanical wonder soar through the skies with a smile, her eyes filled with the remembrance of the joy of flight. She lowers an elegant hand to her harp, then pauses as her gaze falls upon the vestige of the stoic wolf-man. She reaches into the pouch at her side and draws a silver sun-shaped brooch which she contemplates for a moment, then she looks up and slides over to Laika, "Greetings friend, I wouldst thank thee for aiding me in seeing through the deception of our enemies." She shakes her head somewhat sheepishly, "If thou had not cried out, I shudder to think what may have befallen my ward."
"Oh, ummm... thanks." Laika replied, somewhat startled by Lilah aproaching him. He looks over at the brooch that was just handed, "You really didn't need to get me a gift, I only did what needed to be done at the time."
The Lillend shakes her head with a smile, "My realm is one of epic battles in which honor and glory are sought hand in hand." She holds out the brooch, "I always carry such things with me on the chance that I might encounter one worthy... This is a Medal of Gallantry. Please accept it as a badge of thy devotion."
"Well, I'll wear it with pride then." Laika bows his head slightly while receiving the brooch.
"Thou art worthy of it." Lilah replies, "When we do no longer struggle against evil, I shalt sing of thy gallantry." She glances at the mechanical creation now landing nearby, "Truly, there art no end to the wonders wrought by the people of thy world. It was told to me that such a thing flies without the influence of magic... Incredible."
"I must admit, that is one impressive demonstration." Laika says just catching a glimpse of Zooks machine.
The Lillend nods quietly, staring at the machine for a moment, "He hath discovered the joy of flight, it shalt never leave him now."
Lilah turns from Laika, tilting her head at the machine curiously. Then she reaches into her pouch and withdraws a set of bells which she fastens to her tail. Looking up, she draws her harp and strikes a note... Her voice raising in a http://www.kaihaku.net/BGM/15%20Adesso%20e%20Fortuna.mp3.
[Auran to understand]
[Perform(Voice): 18 + 34 = 52]
[Perform(Harp): 14 + 34 = 48]
[Perform(Bells): 10 + 34 = 44]
In the valley...
I feel the fluttering wings of the wind,
beckoning from the blue skies above,
with cool finger-tips,
holding secrets eternally.
The winds embrace me,
lifting me far above
the sheltering ground below.
Whispering tempting words
which draw me
ever upward into the blue skies.
I am helpless, caught in their whims.
During the night you hold me...
Beg me to remain in your embrace.
At the light of dawn, you cry out...
Filled with fear and confusion,
you beg me to remain in your embrace.
Born on the sheltering earth
You cannot understand the call of the winds.
Once more I beg you...
Please hold me during the cold night,
with half-said words of love hanging between us,
but release me in the morning to the skies above.
They draw me,
ever upwards,
towards the sun in the heavens.
To soar upon the winds,
feel the eternal knowledge they bear,
to know the breath of the world.
You beg me to remain in your embrace.
Tell me to cling to the earth...
To the safety of the rocks and dales,
You cannot understand that all is one.
Earth, Sky, Sea...
I must soar in the heavens.

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Thu Aug 31, 2006 9:33 pm
After speaking with Van, Cedric approaches Lady Yeesha in her cart, a frown on her face, "Lady Yeesha, I require your aid on an arcane matter." "Yes?" Yeesha says, looking up from her books. "What is the matter?" Cedric sighs and leans against the cart wearily, speaking in a low voice, "I seek an arcane means of creating a clone of a member of our party. Preferable one with enough intelligence to be mistaken for the original...but not one which is truly sentient or living."
Yeesha raises an eyebrow. "I've heard of such things being done, but... Out here? In the desert? No arcane laboratory?"
"I know..." The Paladin nods, "It would be difficult, but I want to assure the protection of the girl Simone. It is my intention of having her assume the identity of Lisa, who is parting company with us, and allow the clone to be captured...only to utilize devices provided by Zook to destroy itself. The hope being that the enemy will believe that she would prefer death to capture."
Yeesha shakes her head. "I don't think I can do that with what I have out here... The spell of cloning makes a perfect copy of the subject's body, but it has no spark of mind or soul... What you're proposing would take a new spell and new research... It would take time and effort, not to mention a laboratory and spell library. I'm afraid we have none of those."
Cedric nods with a frown, "What of a creation that resembles a living being?" He glances out at the camp, "Such as Gabriel?"
"Again, no lab, no library," Yeesha says with a frown. "Even the most powerful of spellcasters require aids to create such complex things as new life for such a duration. I could create an illusion, but that would be about it."
"Even the lowest of their commanders would never be fooled by an illusion." Cedric replies disappointedly, "I was hoping that we might strike at them in the same manner that they struck at us. Thwarting them with their own devices." The Paladin sighs wearily, "I'm grasping for salvation... For her at least, an innocent hunted by all."
"This war will end someday," Yeesha says, softly. "She won't be hunted forever."
The Paladin pauses for a moment, holding back some retort then stands back to his full height, "I am grateful for your assistance. Farewell." He walks back into the camp searching for Lisa.
"I'm only sorry I couldn't do anything," Yeesha says with a sigh.
Cedric approaches Lisa with a weary frown, the female warrior currently going through some sword forms, "I apologize for delaying you, after gathering some information I've determined that it would indeed be fruitless for the girl to assume your identity." He smiles weakly, "Good fortune on your hunt."
"And on yours," Lisa says, nodding. "I have no doubt one of us will be his end."
Cedric nods,"I never had the honor of sparing with you, shall we do so before we part?"
"If you wish," Lisa says, turning to face Cedric and putting her shield before her. "You are the challenger, so the first blow goes to you."
Cedric lashes out twice at the agile warrior. Lisa moves aside and dodges the first blow, letting her shield catch the second.
Lisa unsheathes her sword and strikes in one smooth motion, smacking Cedric on the cheek with the flat of her blade as the weapon moves down and to the side to catch him in the shoulder before Cedric can move out of the way.
His eyes narrowing, Cedric steadies himself as wisps of energy lace around him before lashing back out at Lisa. Cedric nearly hits Lisa, but his care in attack prevents him from landing a blow as Lisa shifts her body to take the attack on her armor.
Again Lisa whips Cedric in the cheek, but this time the paladin manages to move his body so that the rest of her blows rebound harmlessly off plate armor.
Cedric lashes out twice more in quick succession, only to miss the agile warrior each time, "Perhaps you will succeed where I have failed."
"Failed? Forcing the dark one to flee is hardly a failure," Lisa comments, a shift in the sand causing her to nearly lose her balance and opening herself wide open for a counterattack.
The Paladin, though he does appear to consider it, does not take advantage of the opening provided by Lisa losing her footing. Instead, he holds himself back for a brief instant and speaks, ""To face such an evil and not end it is a failure." He then swings his hammer out striking a powerful, but restrained, blow to her torso. Displaying once more her formidable defenses, she avoids his hammer as he attempts to follow up on this blow, "We follow different creeds, it is a failure in mine to allow any to perish."
Lisa grunts as the blow lands before counterattacking.
"You can't save everyone, Cedric," Lisa says as she swipes at the paladin. "You can only try."
Cedric manages to avoid nearly all of Lisa's strikes as this happens, even managing to shift himself so that a precise blow lands on a less vulnerable spot.
"Someone should be able to..." Cedric lashes out at Lisa, missing wildly only to spin around and slam his hammer into her side once more, "No, the world should not be like this. What kind of creator creates evil along with good?"
"What kind of creator would force a path onto his people?" Lisa counters quietly, suddenly lashing out in a storm of blows.
Cedric stumbles back, leaning on his hammer and holding up a hand, "Enough..." He breathes weakly, clearing on the verge of unconsciousness, "Victory is yours..."
"Your technique is excellent, you merely need time to polish it," Lisa says, sheathing her sword. "Allow me to take care of your injuries."
Lisa casts a serious of healing spells that takes the edge off Cedric's bruises.
"Is there anything else?" Lisa asks.
Cedric holds his hand out to Lisa. Lisa takes the hand and shakes it. As she does so, her own wounds heal.
"Ah.... Thank you," Lisa says, smiling as her wounds heal. "I wish you well on your journey."
"I wish you the best..." Cedric nods quietly, "Though, no amount of free will is worth this turmoil. What kind of parent allow a child to rape, kill, and torture their siblings?"
Lisa stops and turns to face Cedric, a serious look on her face. "That's a dangerous slope. Always is a balance between order and freedom needed, but if you claim free will is not worth the price, many will take it. Have you studied your foe? It is different for each one, but for Erebeus at least, he has pressed many down his path with the simple thought that free will isn't worth the pain the world is in... Of course, what the three say are lies, but be very careful when you allow your thoughts to defray the value of freedom."
"Of course I've studied them... Everything I could learn." Cedric replies with vehemence, then shakes his head with a weary sigh, "I misspoke... Free will is important. I just do not comprehend why a creator would create the possibility for evil." The paladin looks up into the heavens, "If all of existence is the handiwork of one being ultimately...beyond all other Gods...why would that being allow evil to come into existence? Why not make it as impossible as Zook flying without technology or magic? There are laws of nature...why isn't the absence of evil one of them?"
"I can't answer that. But what does it really matter? Evil exists, no matter how it came into being," Lisa says. "I don't pretend to know such things. Perhaps I never will. All I can do is take what's in front of me. And I that's what I will do."
"Perhaps...perhaps you are right..." Cedric replies in a quiet voice, "I may never know the answer but I have to look for it. I cannot simply ignore it... Evil can only be truly defeated if one understands its source...and what if its source is the creator? "
"If the Creator is evil, then we'll have no choice but to face him as well I suppose," Lisa says, turning again. "Then again, one thing at a time."
"Perhaps..." Cedric looks to the ground for a moment, then smiles, "Farewell..." He turns and walks back into the heart of the camp.
"Farewell..." Lisa says, pausing for a moment before turning and leaving.
-----------
A few hours pass since the departure of the enigmatic Lisa from the group.
It is nighttime now, the camp established for the day, and the night sky again lit with stars... One star in particular seems to be growing larger and larger... Until it is visible not as a star, but as a strange object wreathed in flame, streaking down from the heavens. Immense heat, even for the desert passes over everyone as the massive object, easily the size of a small castle at least, streaks overhead. It vanishes over the mountain range to the north shortly before a deafening explosion is seen and heard and a minor tremor rocks the area.

Posted by: Kaihaku Thu Aug 31, 2006 9:51 pm
Cedric stands atop of a nearby dune, staring out towards the mountain range to the north, his eyes narrowed. Finally, he turns back to the others, "Whatever that was seems to have impacted about a day's journey from here. We're going to investigate." He glances at Kyoji, Lilah, and Merkass, "I want Nemesis to travel ahead of us and scout it out. We'll join you shortly."
Lilah nods with a frown, glancing around, "Where is Lisa? Someone must watch over my ward..."
Cedric frowns heavily and looks at the sand beneath his feet, "Lisa has left us." He sighs and looks up, "I will look over Simone until you return. Good fortune."

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Thu Aug 31, 2006 10:06 pm
"At what stage do you wish us to report back?" Kyoji asks. ((Nothing will happen for the day it takes to get close to the site, so you have that time to do whatever. I'll be moving this again soon, probably in a day.))

Posted by: DragonmasterDon1 Thu Aug 31, 2006 10:13 pm
((Spellcraft: 22, Kno(Arcana): 30, Kno(Nature) 30)) Her heart thumped as the object passed overhead. Isyndel Rhoe'wyn steeled herself to examine it as even the heat began to permeating through her skin, approaching and passing over her head. For the most brief of instants her eyes glanced at the tinker before quickly returning to her seemingly absentminded stare.
"Truly bizarre," Isyndel stated after it passed. "Like nothing I have ever seen. Zook?" she asked absently.

Posted by: FreedomJu Fri Sep 01, 2006 3:06 pm
Before the object crashing down.... "It was someone under Derrik's employ that brought me back, and while my village was destroyed there were signs that at least some of my people escaped." Van replies. A trouble looked crosses the warrior's face as the Paladin left to deal with other buisness. A lot more has changed other than some new faces I see.

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Fri Sep 01, 2006 4:24 pm
Zook looks the thing over carefully, racking his brain for a clue as to what it could be. "It's... uh..." ((Kno Ancients: 34 Kno Tech 54)) The correct synapses fire in sequence and Zook snaps his fingers. "Got it." He turns around and holds his hands up before beginning to speak rapidly. "Now bear with me for a minute, I promise this is going somewhere."
He rocks back and forth on his heels as he speaks. "First of all, a physics lesson. You are all, I assume, passing familiar with the concept of gravity, the force that compels objects to stay on the ground. If you raise an object into the air, it will fall without an intervening force. However, if you raise an object high enough relative to the mass of the planet, the attractive force of gravity is not sufficient to bring the object to earth, it will revolve around the planet in a path called orbit. The moon orbits us, we orbit the sun. And so on and so on, to the end of days.
"The Ancients created machines that could follow these paths, these orbits around Rune, called satellites. They served a variety of purposes, as weapons platforms, observation and communication devices. But what we just saw wasn't a satellite.
"In order to bring the satellites into orbit, the Ancients employed a number of small ships capable of fighting Rune's gravity to get into orbit, at which point they released the satellites. But what we just saw wasn't one of these craft. It's much too large, judging the distance roughly.
"Bits of very very obscure lore hint to the initial stages of planning incredibly enormous craft intended to explore the outer reaches of space, beyond... everything we can claim to know. No record of any of these ships having been completed, since eventually the Ancients abandoned the space program for teleportation and trans-dimensional research... which is the catalyst behind the devil invasion and we all know how that turned out. So, it's not one of these either. My first thought was that it was an aircraft, but the height it fell from makes me question that. Hard to judge, though.
The gnome ticks off on his fingers. "What we know and what we can assume are as follows. One, we know that this craft is smaller than a deep space explorer and larger than an orbital ferry. Two, for that ship to have been in the sky means that it is piloted by a being so technologically advanced it makes ADAM look like a falling maple seed. Smarter even than most of the Ancients. Three, for that ship to have fallen as it did and to appear so battered it was forced out of the sky, almost certainly shot down."
Zook takes a deep breath. "So, to sum up, what we just saw is an unbelievably advanced vehicle with an unbelivably advanced pilot crash into the ground." He looks around.
"Any questions?"

Posted by: Knight_019 Sat Sep 02, 2006 3:48 am
*With naught but a nod, Merkass immediately takes off ahead. Gesturing to the rest of Nemesis, the catfolk signals to spread out , but keep close enough to communicate. Thye would need to spread and cover as much area as possible. With long, leaping strides the ranger covers a remarkable amount of area in a short period of time. He wrinkles his nose, sniffing the air and keeping low to the ground to find any traces of recent movement toward or away from the scene.*
((Listen: 1d20 + 17 = 1 + 17 = 18
Search: 1d20 + 19 = 19 + 19 = 38.
Spot: 1d20 + 17 = 13 + 17 = 30.))

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Sat Sep 02, 2006 4:46 am
A day swiftly passes, and as the group nears their destination, the sounds of battle fill the air from far away. Explosions punctuated by the all too familiar sound of Ancient weapons mix with demonic howls and arcane chants as the party reaches the foot of the first mountain in the range...
Merkass can see nothing from his current vantage point, though his keen senses detect a few flying objects moving around far in the distance. It's too far to make them out, however. The mountain blocks his view of where his hearing tells him the object landed. There doesn't appear to be much movement from this particularly area as he stops to study the ground.

Posted by: Kaihaku Sat Sep 02, 2006 3:31 pm
Cedric frowns as the sounds of battle become evident, slowing for a moment and glancing at the others, "I want Leviathan to take the left and Wyvern to the right." He frowns heavily, "Phoenix take up position behind the melee line. Keep it tight, nice and simple." The Paladin snaps the latches on his gauntlets in place around his hammer, "Make what preparations you need to while we're on the move." Cedric then speaks a few holy words and a protective aura forms around him.
[Protection from Evil]
Cedric continues to march as he talks, gesturing forward. The Paladin turns back to Lilah, "I want you and the rest of Nemesis to take up advantageous positions." He nods to Kyoji, "If we do encounter enemies, take out casters or leaders if you can without great risk."
Lilah nods as she slides among the others and sings softly in a haunting voice, images of herself surrounding her. Then she silently takes flight and soars over the rocky terrain to just below the crest of the mountain.
[Mirror Image - 3 Copies]

QUOTE
Marching Order Leviathan - Cedric - Wyvern : Melee Line Phoenix : Caster Line Leviathan Leader: Zook
Aurik, Kethra, Laika, Castor
Wyvern
Leader: Ashathel
Jokulligr, Sulia, Gabriel, Ryhir, Van
Phoenix
Leader: Faralon
Rhizor, Isyndel, Damas
Nemesis
Lilah, Kyoji, Merkass

Posted by: DragonmasterDon1 Sun Sep 03, 2006 1:26 am
Quickly, the wizardess set about weaving the mana about her. There was a certain pleasantry in expecting the worst, she noted dismally as she set about using the scant knowledge in her possession to enhance several of her comrades. The task was ardous and nerve-wracking just the same, pausing occasionally to weave more spells as their intended location drew closer and closer. She swallowed hard, heart bashing the insides of her chest. She reached for Sleet, comforted by her presence and his for that matter.
((
Haste: Kethra, Laika, Castor, Ashathel, Gabriel, Ryhir, Van, Lilah, Kyoji, Merkass, Cedric
Cat's Grace: Zook, Kethra, Laika, Faralon, Rhizor, Isyndel, Damas, Lilah, Kyoji, Merkass, Ashathel
Stoneskin: Castor
Protection From Evil: Castor, Van
Energy Shield: Isyndel
Mage Armor: Isyndel
Remaining:
Level 0 - Resistance, Light, Detect Magic, Read Magic
Level 1 - Magic Missile, Magic Missile
Level 2 - Acid Arrow, Scorching Ray, Mirror Image, Flaming Sphere, Scorching Ray
Level 3 - Sleet Storm, Dispel Magic, Bolt, Bolt, Freeze 2
Level 4 - Scorching Ray (Maximized), Ice Storm, Freeze 3
Level 5 - Bolt 2
Level 6 - Disintegrate
))

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Sun Sep 03, 2006 4:24 am
Kyoji reports back. "There is a pitched battle outside of the crashed vessel. The battle surrounds the ship in its entirety, and the ship itself appears to be lodged into the ground. The crash site is a small valley, there is no foliage around it."
The Paladin frowns heavily, "Who are the sides?"
Kyoji is silent for a moment. "One side consists of the Devil Army backed by a small contingent of Drowned Eye. What cultists there were appear to have been slain already. The other side... The other side is strange. They appear to be using Ancient weaponry and consist of a motley mixture of races and units. All bare similar uniforms, though, so it's obvious that it's a cohesive unit. They bear no symbol, and I can't identify their origin."
"I see..." The Paladin replies thoughtful, then nods, "We know the servants of the Strife Lords, we will strike at them." He sighs, "Watch out for the strangers but do not engage them unless they first engage us."
"Where will we strike? Head on?"
"We don't have the forces to encircle the circle, judging from the information we have,..." Cedric rubs his chin, "I've decided that the best course of action is to break through the infernal army freeing up the defenders on a flank or allowing us to strike directly at the core of the defenders should they be enemies." His eyes narrow, "Does that meet with your approval?"
"It doesn't matter what I think, you are the leader," Kyoji says, quietly.
"Listening for advisement and accepting critiques are part of being a good leader." Cedric replies wearily.
"That is true," Kyoji says. "I see nothing wrong, but be advised. You recall that monstrous machine we saw being hauled above us in Hapon?"
The Paladin frowns, "Yes?"
"There is one at this battle. And it is active. Be advised there are two zones of conflict, the primary and secondary line. The primary we shall encounter first, it is the main battle. The secondary... It's a bulge in the line created by the machine as it as broken through a portion of the defender's line."
"Then..." Cedric nods heavily, his face troubled, "...we'll engage the primary battle before bombarding the machine as best we can."
"As you will."
Theme: http://shinola.radh.com/Battle3.mp3
: "There's too many of them! They're coming out of nowhere!"
: "Hold the line, damn it! We've got to buy time for the others to evacuate!"

Posted by: Dark Maiden Sun Sep 03, 2006 6:29 am
Even as Isyndel begins to cast spells, Damas begins to prepare to cast some spells of his own. Weaving intricate patterns in the air with his hands, and speaking words of power, he calls upon the arcane to enhance and protect his allies, and himself. Still, he feels his pulse climb, and the Sorcerer lets out an audible sigh. Damas' gaze turns to Isyndel as she reaches for Sleet, somewhat envious of the older Wizardess. At least she had her familiar to turn to for security and comfort. He did not have that luxury, not anymore.
What am I thinking...? I cannot keep dwelling on such things, especially not now!
Damas' eyes remain on Isyndel for a moment, and the corner of his lip rises. A smile, though barely. Her presence was a comfort to him, even if she didn't see it, or if he didn't want to admit it.
Bull's Strength: Castor and Cedric
Displacement: Damas and Isyndel]
Once they arrive at their destination, Damas conjures up another spell on himself. Suddenly, his body is wreathed in violet flame, and it looks as if he is immolating himself. The flames are thin and wispy however, and it is obvious that he is not being harmed by them.
[Fire Shield (Warm): Damas]

Posted by: DragonmasterDon1 Mon Sep 04, 2006 12:19 am
She regarded the battlefield solemnly as their force began to enter the fray. Whomever they were bearing witness to beyond the Devil Army was completely unknown to her and the rest of the companions. She thought it safer to assume them enemies as they did battle down below despite what appeared to be an unknown unity between them against a common foe.
It was then that she felt the effect of another magic encompass her; a surprise security blanket. Cocking her head to the side she smiled lightly at the source and bowed her head to him briefly. She resolutely turned her eyes to the battle once more, closing her eyes.
"The enemies nearest to us are the most important to strike first," she stated. "I do not know how much I can slow those furthest away; these creatures we fight are increasingly more capable. Damas," she paused, raising her hands to the sky. "Stand tall."
Her words shifted to incantation as she began conjuring before releasing an intense wintery storm at the far group of enemies.
((Defensive Casting: 9 + 14 + 2 = Success
Sleet Storm - Targetting as many foes in the far north as possible without affecting the 'unknown enemies' to the right. Cylinder (40ft radius, 20 ft high), lasting 1 round/level (11 rounds). Blocks all sight including darkvision, movement at half speed possible with DC10 Balance check; failure by 5 or more results in falling.))
Isyndel - Energy Shield, Mage Armor, Cat's Grace, Displacement

Posted by: Arcdragnbreth Mon Sep 04, 2006 12:23 am
"We're heading down as fast as we can without killing ourselves," Ashathel said, the glowing blade in his hand. "Stay on the defensive, and don't attack unless they come to you. When we get to the bottom of the hill, we'll give them hell." Nodding, Gabriel drew the blade, moving down the mountain with more ease than the others.
((Ash moves 5 squares north and 5 squares east, total defense.
Gabe moves 6 squares north and 6 squares east, total defense.))
<}---{}---{>
== Ash ==
Haste (11 rnds)
Cat's Grace (80 rnds)
Blur (80 rnds)
Shield (80 rnds)
Fox's Cunning (80 rnds)
Detect Magic (80 rnds)
<] Spells [>
Lvl 0 (2) - Disrupt Undead
Lvl 1 (6) - Orb of Sound x3
Lvl 2 (4) - Scorching Ray x2
== Gabe ==
Haste (11 rnds)
Shield (80 rnds)
Enlarge Person (80 rnds)

Posted by: Aldur Mon Sep 04, 2006 12:30 am
Sulia moved around her companions, trying to use her magic given by her god to help them as they arrived. And then used a spell on herself. She smiled in pity down at the misguided children before her. She would end their misery. She nodded as Asathael spoke, moving swiftly down the hill.
(( Bull's Strength and visage of the Deity lesser on Sulia. And CG on both Zook and Gabe.
3 squares up and 3 squares right. Double move.))

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Mon Sep 04, 2006 1:00 am
((Terrain Effects are as follows: You move at 1/4 speed in the mountains, but gain +2 AC vs. ranged attacks. You move at 1/2 speed in the hills and gain a +1 bonus.))

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