Kailord - Computer Science House

Transcription

Rules, Rulings
Kailord
The Enemy of My Enemy
Act VIa
Opening: Flying Near the Web
A couple of weeks ago, the group of companions never imagined they would have been in the situation they are in.
Whereas some initially started off as a search party for the Anari president, others have been drawn in for one reason or
another. Likewise, some have gone their own way.
From the beginning, people have deceived them and tried to kill them. Despite this, they committed to the goal of
rescuing the super-psychic woman known as Ameesha. Many have felt the caress of death's fingers on their faces. And
many have been handed over to death by the mix of heroes.
Act VI Avatar
Post freely now once you have leveled.
Good luck.
I made mention of some things that need
to be considered. Since Teph is a dangerous
city, any akanai, otai, or banou (silver,
green, blue) is liable to attract unwelcome
attention. Outlanders are not uncommon,
so the mix of nationalities and languages
aren't suspect. Still, keeping a low profile is
probably best.
Remember that you still have your
qarinafahs to help cover anything you need
covered--though they are not a full cocoon
of coverage. Your front-side will still be
visible.
If you have any weapons that you DON'T
want seen, stow them away or hide them
now. Let me know or I'll consider them in
plain sight. Let me know if you remove your
armor (not so I can target you first, but
because normal people don't walk around in
armor in Vassagonia--lots of armor is
considered a weakness).
Finally, keep in mind that you are more
valuable dead than alive in Teph. While you
will find enemies easily, there are other
outlanders who frequent this place all the
time and can help you out. Everyone will be
your friend if you show a little coinage;
everyone will be your enemy if you show a
lot.
I think you understand the feel of the city
now. You will never find the more wretched
hive of scum and villany.
And now they find themselves in a predicament. The very man who has asked that they find his daughter could have been
slain in the Battle of the Red Sands. They did not even know if she was still alive, or for what purpose she had been
abducted. All they knew was that she was in Teph.
Their reasons were their own, yet they each continued further into the unwinding adventure. Like a boulder rolling down a
slope, they seemed to become further and further entwined in this multi-national web of intrigue, faster and faster.
The map of oases that Arcadian had came in useful, for they all decided the half day it would cost them to detour to one
was justified--they could not perform rescue missions if their health and hydration was compromised. Despite the fact
that the oasis on the map was smaller than expected, and overrun by large sand scorpions, the group managed to leave
with full sacks and skins.
The journey on the sands was uneventful, aside from passing a large nomad tribe (whom Sol Hawk found out were
headed by a man named Zidashi) on their way from Chiba to Casiorn, no one crossed their paths. In a short time after
leaving the oasis, they topped a dune and found their goal--Teph, sitting on the sands near a backdrop of mountain peaks
to the northwest. The city itself was built partially on a plateau of rock, and as the sun rose in the eastern sky, the lights
could be seen as pinpoints in the distance, slowly disappearing as day came.
Simyn raised his spyglass. "If we can see them,"
"They can see us," finished Valestar.
"Best to hide that armor, banouta," Sol Hawk said to the two Vakeros.
"And any traces of Kai cloaks, otai-ta," returned Korlaeth.
Valestar considered his own attire. The peoples in this land weren't too fond of Dessi-born. Unless they had money. He
clutched his staff tightly, remembering what happened the last time he entered one of these remote sand-locked cities.
Sir Victor looked at his own armor, wondering if it was wiser to leave it on or take it off.
Hawkeye noticed a group of riders to the west, heading toward the city. Simyn trained his glass on them. "A dozen
horsemen, led by a standard bearer. Looks like the emblem on the flag is an open hand severed across the palm."
"Well," said Arcadian at last. "What's the plan?"
***
Simyn patted Starfall absent-mindedly. The last few weeks had been eventful to say the least and it seemed that the
companions had a knack of coming into tight spots and finding ways out of them. So far all of them were alive and
healthy but would they stay that for long.
"I don't recognize that banner, but my best guess is that they are the local town guards. If what I have heard about this
place is true, they likely want a little donation to see us safe into the city."
***
Valestar waited calmly for the others to prepare themselves. He was ready. Since the defeat of the demon, Valestar had
felt less afraid, and more in control of his destiny. He could feel that his strength had decreased somewhat with the
absence of the demon, his rage was no longer a tool he could use. However, he could also feel the beginnings of new
powers forming within him. And things seemed much clearer now. He realized he could hear the thoughts of the others at
times. He hadn't lost the use of the pyschic abilities he'd used against the demon. While they weren't developed yet, he
found that his mind was becoming a great tool which he would one day be able to use against his enemies to great effect.
***
Blue steel is once again a
dagger, and hidden under my Vassan
robes. I won't try to hide the khanjars I
have, but I'll try not to make it obvious how
much they're worth (maybe wrap the hilts
in leather or something). My blue-steel
chain will stay on under my robes (got it
designed for that rather than getting scale
Korlaeth gazed at Teph, wincing slightly as the camel he rode shifted underneath him. He had healed remarkably well, all
things considered, but between travelling while wounded, and the fact that the camel, while appreciated, just wasn't
Avatre...
Ah, well. It was never said that the life he had chosen would be an easy one. He glanced over at Arcadian and rubbed his
jaw absently at that thought. He had learned more from the various Vassagonians he had encountered recently then he
thought at first, and was confident that his increased skill with the language would serve well in this dangerous place.
"Should a few of us check it out, or should we find a place to stay first?"
. I hope I was able to
mail at level
claim some of the coinage we found, as
otherwise I may be a little short on cash,
however, if someone's carrying it, and is
willing to share it out as needed, that's fine,
too. Also, how much have we healed in our
trip to Teph?
OOC: The trip to Teph was seven days I
think, so everyone should be fully restored
of EP and WP with Sol's healing touch. Re:
booty, everyone please see my note in
OOC. Finally, I bought enough food and
water for us and our mounts on the journey
- it is probably all used up by now and both
camels will be riding light. Korlaeth, if you
took Wing Hoof, make sure to add her to
your character sheet
***
During the journey, Sol Hawk had made the contents of the Overlord's orders known to the others, and considered the
words now as they gazed toward Teph...
Tava'ryn,
Of course you knew before you received this that you would have the honor of heading up the Western army in the battle.
It may interest you to know that before I sent Myr-atoch into Anari, I had him loop by the Khadriz region and extend my,
ah...blessings...to Overlord Hasmynor. When you finish this battle, you may want to head southwest and claim that region
for yourself now that it is leaderless.
Listen to me: Do not toy with them. Allow them to engage, then place them in the Sand Mother's grasp. Let her squeeze
their number till the sands run red. The Zultan was too much of a coward to lead his army, but Kubudei is among the
Anari horsemen. He is unimportant. Dead, living, just as good....
While you lead this historic battle, I shall explain our plan to the other regional lords. Hasmynor was too popular and too
powerful to be among them. That is why I shall use his head as the centerpiece of the banquest--to show them that none
of them is beyond my grasp if their strongest falls.
Rules, Rulings
Re: Kai Cloak, Weapons - the
scimitars are in scabbards but
not explicitly hidden. Sol Hawk's
quiver and bow are also in plain
sight on his person. He is
wearing the qarinafah to the best
possible effect. He is wearing his
leather armour, however.
Perception Check: 18
Act VIa, Opening – Flying Near the Web
After all, you are now strongest. Your ascension to Zakhan is almost assured, especially after I finish talking with the lords. From
there I depart to Cloeasia with the seer. When she psychomances the location of the book I spoke of last year, I'll send word to you
to join me again at Teph for a celebratory dinner.
And then, kascha-d'no, we will make plans.
Egoliah
Behind it, easily missed, is a small piece of paper.
Be warned. I am sent word that there is a group of mercenaries hired by Kubudei to track the seer. There are banouta among them.
With care, Sol Hawk looked forward to see whatever else he could discover about the city they were now approaching. His heart
beat faster as he realized that they might now, as they had hoped for so long, at last be able to find and rescue the lady Ameesha.
***
Results for Knowledge checks,
History, Royalty and Nobility,
and Warfare, to try to identify
the banner: 25, 9 and 14,
respectively.
After the fight, the knight decided to ride without his armour until danger clearly presented itself again. The heated metal was
simply unbearable in the middle of the day. Despite the qarinafah covering his shoulders, he still felt vulnerable without his
carapace, but no matter. Better to die by a blade than by dehydration.
After a week of travel, they finally reached Teph, city of nameless pleasures and villainy. Heeding his companions' warnings, he
concealed his armour in his saddle bags, now empty of food or drink, and took care to keep his sword hidden under the qarinafah.
Then, taking the spyglass, he tried to identify the banner flapping lazily in the desert breeze.
***
Both scimitars and the
khanjar are +5 (3 craft, 2
magical). The underclothing will
boost AC by +5 (again, 3 craft, 2
magical). It is a stretchy,
forgiving material. It will fit
anyone from Valestar to Sir
Victor.
The dozen riders to the west largely ignored the companions. They were intent on their goal, and even though a couple of scouts
were dispatched to investigate the group at long range, they quickly returned and continued their course to Teph.
Simyn studied the items that Sol Hawk had laid out, noting that the underclothing the Kai had found on Tava'ryn was made stronger
by bands of magic passing through its weave. The weapons on the Overlord were magical as well. Nothing else had any sort of
arcane properties.
The note Sol Hawk had shared with everyone brought a sense of dread with it. Kascha-d'no. Little brother. Had they known this,
however, they would have still done the same things. In light of seeing the dozen riders headed toward Teph with the banner, it
made more sense, however.
Sir Victor could not recall any royalty of this region, but he did know that the system of land grants favored the most powerful. It
was not survival of the fittest out here, it was survival of the ruthless. The flag was therefore designed to characterize the leader
(Warlord or Overlord) that it represented. The fact that this one bore a severed hand was not especially comforting.
The knight explained to them about the bloody history of this region. In MS4771, after the defeat of the Black Zakhan, these
territories were the ones set aside for the Vassa tribes to live in freely. However, Sharnazim garrisons were set up in each region,
and they were all ruled by those who were trusted by the new Zakhan. These new rulers were given direct power over their lands,
extended the rights to exercise any power to force the inhabitants to either swear fealty to the new Zakhan...or be made an
example to others as to what would happen to dissenters. Tens of thousands died.
The system of lords still stands to this day, but most of the population has moved into the cities. To them, being right under the law
of the Sharnazim is preferred to being under the whims of the Warlords and Overlords. Now these regions are the testing grounds
for the might-makes-right line of succession to the throne in Barrakeesh. New lords are granted plots of land in existing warlord
lands. They must then defend their claim and rise through the ranks through force, alliance, or treachery.
This was probably a regional ruler, traveling with his personal bodyguards under his personal emblem. He was headed to Teph for
some reason.
Sol Hawk listened to the history lesson while scanning the city. His eyes caught something. "Simyn, are those flags flying from the
walls?"
I'm doing a
knowledge (Arcana) check on
everything I collected, except the
Khanjar, (but we'll also do all the
rings) to see if I can discover any
hidden purpose behind the
items. If it's in the middle, I'll do
em individually. If it's too low, I'll
consider the whole thing
botched. If it's high enough, I'd
like to consider every one of
them passed, with an extra roll if
I want more info.
I'm doing the same thing with an
appraise roll.
Arcana: 24
Appraise: 21
What does that get me?
The sage nodded. "Yes, I can't make out what is on each one, but some towers on the walls have flags of different colors flying from
them. Others do not."
***
Arcadian carefully took off his scalemail waistcoat and greaves. He placed them in a burlap sack that was tied to the back of Iri. He
left his sword in its sheath and tied it to behind one of the sacks, to keep it hidden. He considered his shortsword a moment. If he
could find some sort of dark clothing in Teph and perhaps a flowing cloak to go with it he could easily hide the shortsword.
His hand fell to the dagger that he always carried hidden, at his waist. At least he wouldn't be totally disarmed. And of course he
could always call upon his Sorcery abilities without the use of his blue-steel. Arcadian strapped Murdach's scimitar to his waist. At
least until he found some sort of cloak he could wield this weapon unnoticed.
The knight was at least thankfull that his facial features wouldn't directly give him away as being Dessi-born. The physical
characteristics of the Vakeros were vaguely similar to those of the Vassagonians.
Still...he would have to be careful...
***
Valestar knew nothing of flags and buildings. While he waited for the others to decide their next move, he took out the items he had
collected from the last battle and studied them carefully, assesing both their history and value.
***
Scimitars and khanjars: 70-100
GC each
Signet rings: 100 GC each
Silver and ruby necklace: 500 GC
Eagle onyx ring: 250 GC
Twin Overlord scimitars: 1000
GC each
Overlord khanjar: 600 GC
I checked Act V--don't think I
ever said what emblem was on
the crimson and silver flag.
Valestar studied the trinkets they had acquired one last time, looking them over for any traces of arcane markings. Sighing, he
shrugged. None of the items were magical--only the weapons and armor. He was able to figure out rough estimates on them, as for
what they might get if they were to sell them in Teph.
He then remembered something. The flag the standard bearer had would have had an emblem on it. He looked at the signet rings.
He wasn't entirely sure, but he thought he recalled the flag emblem as an eagle's claw. The flag's colors would certainly explain the
use of silver and ruby in the jewelry.
***
Teph or Vassagonia for that matter, did not agree with the sage. It reminded him too much about the nobles of his own homeland
Lyris. Instead of serving the people they had been set to rule, they were more interested in the betterment of themselves than the
betterment of everyone. Simyn wished to visit Sommerlund and Durenor. If sir Victor was an example of how nobles behaved in the
northern lands, Sommerlund should well be worth a visit. Perhaps an opportunity of seeing the fabled Monastery of the Kai would be
possible.
Rules, Rulings
The sage sighed and returned to the matters at hand:
"So my dear companions, should we ride to Teph and our destinies? Perhaps we should come up with a likely cover story for our
entry into this city? Although perhaps a few coins in the guards' pockets might solve that problem."
***
Valestar put the items away, rubbing his chin thoughtfully. "We have enough items of interest here, I think, to ensure our safe
passage through Teph. And maybe something else. This signet ring of the Overlord Korlaeth defeated, surtely someone in Teph will
recognize its symbol. We must be careful who we show it to, of course."
***
"Shall we find a place to stay, then?" Korlaeth asked his companions, even while he gazed thoughtfully at Teph.
***
"So my dear companions, should we ride to Teph and our destinies? Perhaps we should come up with a likely cover story for our
entry into this city? Although perhaps a few coins in the guards' pockets might solve that problem," spoke Simyn.
Arcadian laughed a little though the action hurt him. Sol Hawk's healing abilities had helped, though they had not completely
relieved him.
"Destiny? Don't you mean death?"
Though his words were dark they were spoken with a slight smile.
"There is an old Vakeros proverb, and I speak it ever time before going into battle. It is a verse that helps to take away fear, when
facing death, and not once has it failed to bring me strength. It reminds us that the lives of men are short when compared to the
endless ages. Whether we die young upon a bloody battlefield or with grey hair upon our death beds, it makes no difference."
Arcadian spoke in a tongue that was foreign to all present save Korlaeth and Valestar. His words were liquidy, and filled with ancient
fervor.
OOC: Everyone should
restore EP to full. Kailord said
earlier that the journey to Teph
would take us seven days, so
each character would regain
7Xlevel in EP. That would be 49
points for a Level 7 character,
and that is not counting Sol
Hawk's help. Needless to say,
WP would also be at max by
now.
OOC: History Check on Teph: 22
Please provide any other
information available to Sol
Hawk on Teph - especially
related to ideas for entering the
city
"Bordi di morte sulla nostra nascita, e la nostra culla si leva in piedi nella tomba. La nostra nascita è niente di ma la nostra morte
cominciati. Death borders upon our birth, and our cradle stands in the grave. Our birth is nothing but our death begun."
***
Valestar knew the saying well, though he never quite liked it. "Very cheerful," he said with a 'harumph.' "Does anyone need an extra
backpack? I'm getting rid of mine." Valestar had been busy moving the backpack's contents into Varsuvial's saddlebags. What with
his new weapons, he was feeling weighted down. He knew he must look a ridiculous sight, a mage with a crossbow and shortsword,
but he didn't care. He hadn't lost all of his paranoia, even in the absence of the demon, and after that last battle, he hated to think
what would happen if he ran out of the energy required to cast his magic.
***
Sol Hawk looked on toward the city and continued to ponder. He knew much of Teph, gleaned over years by tending Vassan
prisoners in the dungeons of the Kai Monastery. Teph was a very old city and one of great power in recent times especially. As a
center of commerce, the inhabitants were used to seeing people of all races. While they did not always like these travellers, those
were nearly always tolerated as a necessary boon to the lifeblood of Teph's economy.
"If we were to pose as merchants," said Sol Hawk, "There should be no reason we cannot simply ride right through the front gate. Of
course, the first question would be: what are we selling?" He looked back and forth between his companions and at last arrived with
a distasteful answer: "Slaves."
***
"Well, said the knight, “if everybody's ready, let's move. Since this is our destination, I'd just as soon shed some of the dirt and
dust of this journey. Our mounts will also appreciate the rest," he added as he patted Bright Lance's mane.
Sol's suggestion, however, did not sit too well with the knight.
***
Seeing Sir Victor's displeasure with his conclusion (and sharing it) Sol Hawk continued the line of thought: "Perhaps we can instead
claim that we are here to sell weapons of fine quality." They had accumulated some number of mastercrafted weapons following
their fight with the Overlord. "Or alternatively, we can say that we have come to Teph in order to purchase supplies for ourselves
after being forced to circumvent the warzone. It is possible that we will enter Teph and that none will challenge us, but considering
the fact that there is a war on, I expect that we will have to have an excuse."
KL, the type of cloak Arcadian
wants is a cloak of the style that
Master Qui-Gon Jinn wears. It
goes over the head and covers
the back, much of the sides, and
his chest. Let me know once we
are in the city if Arcadian can
find such a cloak.Oh, and also,
can I presume that we used all
our water and food on the trip
through the sands to Teph?
Also, Arcadian does an Occult
check to determine if there are
any magical properties on the
bag of sand he took off
Murdach's body.
Occult Result = 30
Sol Hawk was then unsettled once more. "On the other hand," he said in more of a hushed whisper, "perhaps Egoliath knows that
we are coming and has guarded the entry to Teph against the possibility."
***
Arcadian nodded, "all of these are possible actions, however keep in mind that Valestar, Korlaeth, and I are all of Dessi ascent. If we
were to be discovered as such in Teph than we will be hanging from the gallows before nightfall..."
The Vakeros Knight was already uneasy at being unarmed as it were. He began to mentally note what he would need to purchase
once inside the city walls. Murdach's scimitar would serve as a weapon, should the need arise, until he was able to wield his bluesteel again. But he would need some sort of native clothing, more specifically a light, but flowing cloak to cover up his shortsword.
Arcadian was loath to leave the weapon behind. And though he knew that hiding his sword underneath a cloak was risky, it could be
more easily done with the shorter blade. And he would need some armor, something cheap but effective, as he would not need it for
long.
Sol Hawk was then unsettled once more. "On the other hand," the Kai Lord said in more of a hushed whisper, "perhaps Egoliath
knows that we are coming and has guarded the entry to Teph against the possibility."
Arcadian nodded, "this is a possiblity. Either way...we don't have much of a choice at this point."
Hoping my History Check:
22 helps to answer that
question!
Valestar will help with Sol's
check and in addition, gain
anything else that may be
relevant to thier trek in Teph.
Got a natural 20, for a total of 24
on that history check
***
Simyn pondered the problem. "The gates are the obvious way, but perhaps there are other ways of entry. I know that Barrakeesh
has a sewer system, but I do not believe that Teph has one. It could be worth to check out though, together with other possible
means of entrance."
***
Valestar listened as Sol Hawk tried to remember what he knew of Teph. Valestar then opened his own mind to the subject. Trained
by the Dessi to be able to retain the most intricate details of history, Valestar was like an encyclepedia of knowledge on nearly any
subject.
Rules, Rulings
You can find anything in Teph. The more obscure or rare it is, the harder it
is to find. Once inside the walls, if you wish to find a certain item, roll a
Gather Information check. Depending on how rare the item is, the DC will
be adjusted.
The cloak you are talking about would be DC12--not hard to find at all.
As for supply depletion, yes, you have used all but 1 day's supply of food in
crossing the desert.
As for the nice History checks, I will synergize them.
Distillation of what I just said based on your checks: The best places of
entry would be along the ENE or WNW walls, where construction was
underway. Any idea that relates to any of the following aspects of city life
and history would have a chance of working:
-coming
-coming
-coming
-coming
-coming
to sell something (risky if asked what you're selling)
to buy something
at the request of architects
at the request of local merchants
with word from Chahdan (or other) dignitaries
The following would be dangerous and could go sour fast:
-coming with prisoners/slaves
-coming to look for slaves
-coming to meet <specific person>
-just passing through
The north side would have double the amount of checkpoints: one at the
new outer gates, and one at the "old" gates.
Arcadian looked over the bag of sand that was among the loot claimed recently. He tried
to find any suggestion that it was somehow magical in nature, but everything he tried
only returned to him that the bag and its contents were ordinary in nature.
Meanwhile Sol Hawk and Valestar brainstormed how they could enter the city by having a
discourse on its history and modern status.
Teph was one of the original Seven Cities founded by the Vassa tribes as they settled the
land. At one time, it was at the center of the Vassan territories (it would not be fitting to
call it empire at that stage). The entire nation encompassed much of what is now
Sommerlund and Durenor, as well as Casiorn, Ruanon, and northeastern Slovia. While
Barrakeesh was declared the national capital, it was well-known that there was a twin
capital to the west: Teph.
Despite several geo-political events in the area, the city's importance never faltered.
Indeed it only became more important. During the times when free trade flowed across
northern Magnamund, Teph was the hub. As such, the Zakhans decided it would be wise
to decentralize their holdings in Barrakeesh, in the event the city ever fell. Also, investing
their Crowns in such a well-traveled city would undoubtedly yield profit.
Vast funds were transported to Teph. Businesses sprang up under light taxation laws. An
official area of the town was sanctioned for a garrison of Sharnazim, increasing the city's
protection and providing incentive to start businesses due to the lack of crime that would
bring. The Black Tax on Casiorn was diverted to delivery in Teph during the last decade,
and not coincidentally, the outer defenses had undergone extensive modifications and
repairs.
The state of the city at present was one of internal solidarity with external flux. The core
of the city--what always made it popular--was intact. The variation in merchandise was
unparalleled for a thousand miles. Teph held it all, and criminals knew it. And the
Sharnazim knew they could turn profit on taxing the criminals who in turn made profit on
fencing goods at the merchants whose taxes made the Empire profit for reselling those
fenced goods. Crime pays for everyone involved.
Your call, as always. Where you enter isn't the important part. It's really
how and why.
The city was built much like other cities that underwent major economic upswings in the
region. It was built in districts, encircled by a wall. As resources allowed, another wall was
built around this one, and the city grew into the gap between. Then another wall was
built, and so on. Due to its long history, the city now had five walls, each one bigger than
the last. The fifth wall was being built at the present, starting from the northern side of
town. It would encompass the entire city in a seventy-five foot high, ten foot thick shell of
stone reinforced with iron rods.
It's really important, too, that you consider the mix of ethnicities you have.
Remember, the only person who would not be hated by the Sharnazim (and
to some extent, the populace) is Simyn. The rest of you are "silver",
"green", or "blue". If you can't speak Vassan, I recommend being quiet, as
your language or accent in speaking North Common will betray you.
The discussion between the Kai and the Mage bored some of the rest. That was how it
could be when two knowledgeable people began talking about a subject that was
considered bland at best to those around them. The sun was rising, however, and as the
discussions wandered through the timeline from the city being a group of horse-lord tents
to the current juggernaut of trade, the temperature rose from comfortable to a tad warm.
However, the south side might be the easiest to gain entry through with the
proper motivation and the right amount of coinage. Remember that all
Vassagonians like gold.
Once inside the city, it won't be that much of an issue. After all, if you pass
the guards, you must be either okay or wealthy.
***
Simyn is speaking here-------Æ
"So what do you propose, trying the guards or to pass the walls that have not been built
properly? I'm fairly well with words and I speak the Vassan language, but what would be
a proper lie to enter. We could try to lure them by saying that I am to meet a scholar in
Teph, but I do not know any scholars in Teph and that you are my bodyguard. We should
of course hide some of your more obvious attributes of your real occupation as you
already have done. That is if we want to go with that lie."
Valestar is speaking here-----Æ
"I think it best we keep our story as uncomplicated as possible. If they start asking
questions, then we can tell them all sorts of tales, but for starters we'll want a simple
explanation for our presence. Teph must recieve dozens of tourists. Why don't we just
pose as curious people with lots of money to put into the economy and the guard's
pockets?"
***
DC12? Okay, I rolled an 18.
***
"Perhaps," said Sol Hawk, "We can go even simpler. And rather than lying as we might
have had to do, we can simply say that we are passing through and need to buy food for
our mounts and allow them to rest up before continuing our journey... to where? That
would be simple enough. Probably also best to plead ignorance about the war south, or at
least volunteer nothing unless explicitly asked. To say we didn't see it could be a sure lie,
but to say we did raises suspicions as to how we escaped."
***
"Exactly, Sol," Valestar said with a grin. He was still pleased, like a teacher with a
student, with how much the Kai Lord had known about history. In fact, he had been a
tutor back at the academy, and found he relished the job. "But adding that we will be
seeking to empty our purses into Teph's economy won't hurt matters."
***
Simyn again--------------------Æ
"How about saying that we are travelling to Barrakeesh? Or perhaps we aim to go to
Cloeasia instead?"
***
What about me? I speak Vassan and am a master of disguise.
Should be able to blend in like a local or something. And well I'm wearing
studded leather so the cloak or whatever you called it should be able to
cover me well. My longsword stays hidden beneath it while my bow is
obvious to everyone. Trying to pass as a hunter or the likes.
Lots of assumption here based on the deliberation.
"Perhaps in the end it won't matter what we say," said Valestar. "I've had a feeling that
someone's been watching us lately, and I can't help but feel that somehow our enemies
will know the minute we enter Teph."
***
Having taken care of all outward appearances as much as they wanted to, the group
veered a bit westward as they approached the city, bypassing the southern gates in favor
of ones near the construction zone. As they got closer, they could see the newest wall and
its three tunnels that would run through it. It was truly massive, but not nearly as
massive as the base stones that were being moved from the mountains nearby to be
placed in the sands underneath the construction.
Rules, Rulings
Huge ten by ten foot stone blocks were being moved inch by inch across the sands, then led down ramps and stacked and mortared into
a broad thirty foot wide base. Upon this base the architects and engineers drew chalk lines for the next section of wall, and smaller
pieces of stone were slowly being laid out and mortared as the foundation extended southward.
The construction area was just beginning to encroach upon another gate's entry/exit trail, and the guards at the large arched opening
were having a heated debate--okay, an argument--with one of the architects. They were oblivious to the two wagons waiting outside
the gate.
In a few moments, the yelling ended and the architect stalked off with a smug look of triumph on his face. The guard glowered at him
and rubbed the hilt of his scimitar. He then began talking with the wagon driver while another guard began opening doors and nosing
around in the wagon.
The companions came up behind the two wagons and stopped, waiting rather anxiously as they watched the exchange ahead. The
architect stared at them and walked behind them. Sir Victor was uneasy about this--the fellow was motioning to someone at the wall
about fifty feet behind them. Three people detached, two of them carrying something that looked like long crude spears.
Valestar was closest to the rear, and he could not help but feel a bit threatened. One pre-emptive strike against him could mortally
wound him before he could unleash his magic. The men came over to the architect and stood on either side of him while he spoke
something unintelligible to them. Both men thrust their spears into the ground, while the third helped the architect unroll a cloth banner
and stretch between the two makeshift-posts.
Finished, the four left and went back to the wall. Sol Hawk, ever curious, rode around the other side of the banner and returned. "Do
not be alarmed. It says 'This gate is to be walled up, move south for entry.' I would guess the guard was not informed his post was
about to vanish."
The guard checking the wagons suddenly exclaimed something and forcefully yanked back the burlap tarp covering the second wagon.
He climbed up onto the wheel and reached down into the crates and sacks to grab something. A girl screamed, and the guard lifted her
up by her hair before dragging her over the side and letting her fall onto the sand. The wagon driver up ahead began speaking rapidly,
obviously trying to smooth this over. It wasn't working.
The guard questioning him whistled loudly and drew his blade, laying the curved edge alongside the man's neck in one smooth motion.
Archers appeared at the top of the archway on the wall, crossbows fixed on both driver and stowaway. The second guard grabbed the
girl around the neck and lifted her up, then placed his scimitar sideways in the middle of her back and directed her to stand at the first
wagon while the guard interrogated the driver, moving his blade from the driver's neck to the stowaway's neck.
The following is in Vassan:
No more need for words.
The driver was distressed, and by the looks on his face, he obviously knew the girl. She was likely young enough to be his daughter.
She stood as best she could, crying hysterically in fear.
Driver: Please, sir, please--I come here all the time to do business.
Main Guard: Then you know the laws, old man!
Driver: Do not harm her--she did only as I asked. Our village was burned in a raid by a rival Overlord. We have nowhere to go and only
a few coins in our pouch.
Main Guard: As I said, you know the laws. Pay the fine for evading entry tax.
Girl: He just told you he can't! We only have enough for him and the wagons.
Second Guard (eyeing the girl's butt): Then I guess you have to stay outside until you earn some money to get in, eh?
Driver: If you so much as-Main Guard (moving scimitar back to driver's neck): What? You'll do what? Are you now threatening a Sharnazim?
Driver: Please, let us in and you can have any of my possessions.
Main Guard: This isn't a bartering post, old man. We want gold.
Second Guard: Let him in, and we'll take this possession. (laughs lecherously and grabs her butt)
Upon having her rear end groped, the girl reacted in a rather rash manner. She spun around and slapped the guard so hard his
headwrap flew off his head! Recovering quickly, he raised his hand and returned the blow, backhanding her across the face so hard that
the momentum carried her into the wagon, then she collapsed to the ground.
Don't you hate moral
dilemmas when you can't be
yourselves? I'll break action
here to give anyone a chance
to react.
The driver leaped from the wagon, only to be grabbed by the main guard and slammed against the wagon, pinned.
"Watch him!" called out the main guard to the archers, who all fixed their bows upon the now-hysterical man, only able to helpless stare
at the scene unfolding.
Sol Hawk, Korlaeth, Hawkeye, and Sir Victor all saw something from their vantage point that no one else could--the driver had produced
a dagger from somewhere and was likely now to pounce upon one of the Sharnazim if they did anything.
***
Arcadian couldn't understand much of what was being said. But it was plain to see that the man had violated the law by letting the girl
stowaway in wagon in order to gain access to the city.
The knight just watched and waited...until one of the guards grabbed the butt of the young girl. Arcadian's blood boiled. The girl yelped
and backhanded the guard. And within a few seconds everything had gone straight to hell.
The girl was struck, and the man who Arcadian assumed to be her father was pushed up against the wagon.
Arcadian quickly shouted what he hoped was 'stop' in Vassan and moved moved so that all present could see the wonderous scimitar
blade that was strapped to his side.
Hope I wasn't too rash...
Arcadian, holding his breath.
Men of all countries are the same... thought Cade. He wished that Kamilah was here. She could speak Vassan as if it was a second
language.
Arcadian raised his left hand and gave the belt there a jingle. He was staring directly at the main guard, and his eyes were unmoving.
At this point he did not care if he recognized him as a native of Dessi. It would give him all the more an excuse to kill this man.
***
Sense motive check: 7
Whatever the companions would say to enter the city, if questioned directly, the knight would answer as truthfully as he could, for he
swore vows to never again utter lies in this life, to uphold the Code of Honour of the knights of the realm.
Unfortunately, as they rode towards the gate, they witnessed a disturbing scene. "What's going on?" he asked softly, not understanding
a word of Vassan.
He tried to see whether the man meant ill with his dagger, or if he genuinely feared for the girl.
***
Valestar cursed under his breath as he saw Arcadian move forward. What was it with heros? Why did they have to feel that every evil
thing that happened was placed there, as if by some god, for them to take care of? They had no right to interfere in this man's plight,
and even if they did, this was not the time. Valestar acted like he wasn't with the Vakeros, and once again wished he'd learned the
powers of enchantment. With this group, they'd be needing it.
***
Rules, Rulings
Simyn who spoke Vassan fluently tried to ride between the guard and the girl. His first impulse was to teach the guard a proper lesson
in who women should be treated, but since the companions would not want to get on the wrong side of the Teph City guards, Simyn
spoke (in Vassan):
Rolled a Diplomacy check
with a total of 31 (natural 20)
Sages rule!
"Oh, excuse an ignorant foreigner as myself, but we are in a hurry. The wench might be beautiful, but we would like to get in today, so
how about if I would pay the tax for the girl and perhaps add something in between. I have been told that the girls in the city are much
more beautiful and more skilled in the art of pleasuring a man, than this plain girl."
Simyn hated himself for talking about a woman in such a demeanour, but if they could save the girl's virtue without using weapons that
might be so much better.
***
OOC: -1 WP Telepathy
Sol Hawk looked on, clearly uneasy with a situation that would likely result in the girl's eventual death. He did nothing, instead staying
back and allowing Arcadian and Simyn do the talking whilst telepathically translating for Sir Victor and the others. The guards, though
cruel, were likely only in this for the money, for a distraction, or both. Sol Hawk did breathe a sigh of relief at Simyn's words and Cade's
timely action. He knew that this tact should surely succeed.
***
Seeing that the situation seemed to be well in hand, Korlaeth stayed back, quietly looking on from beneath his head-wrap. His hands
stayed loosely at his side, but perhaps a touch closer to his weapons.
***
Sir Victor saw the dagger and the look in the man's eyes. He might likely pounce on one of these Sharnazim in some foolish attempt to
protect this girl. For all the good that would do... But nevertheless he was like a cornered animal protecting its young.
The younger Vakeros moved his horse a bit forward and shouted one of the few words he remembered Kamilah teaching him: "Ashaz!"
Arcadian's command to halt was not ignored. In fact, the ill-tempered Sharnazim looked up and saw the brooding man reach for his
sword. The guard's eyes saw the finely crafted handle--one he himself had not yet earned. Perhaps this person outranked him? Maybe
this was a staged test of his devotion to enforcing the law? Whatever it was, he hesitated.
The other guard looked around at the Vakeros. His glance went from the young man's eyes to his sword. Then he spoke in a tone which
Cade was sure was a counterthreat or brush-off of the display.
Vassan--------------Æ
"Bravery will get you killed here, boy. This girl's not worth your blood."
He reached into his uniform and pulled out a short black rope and bent down to grab the girl's hands. At that time, Simyn rode up. As
he spoke, the driver replaced the dagger into the folds of his clothing. The Sharnazim binding the girl stopped and listened in irritation
at first, then interest.
He looked at the other guard. "I'm in," he said, stooping over to untie the knots.
The driver rushed up to the sage, grasping his leg and touching his forehead to it repeatedly. "Thank you, sir, thank you, sir. Anything
of mine is yours!"
Cost for entry for
these people is as follows:
The guards gave Simyn a bit of preferential treatment after this. They were impressed over his opulence more than his gesture of
paying someone else's way. This padded the way for the rest of them to enter. Since this post was about to close down imminently,
there was no need to draw out the process any longer than necessary.
Wagons: 2 GC each
Horses: 1 GC each
People: 5 GC each
Fine: 100 GC
Total = 116 GC
The animals were given a quick inspection, and the only person who drew any attention from the guards was Sol Hawk. Again, Simyn's
quick thinking defused a potential situation with three simple words: a fellow feyata. The guards got a laugh at this and waved the
group on in after collecting the appropriate coinage from each.
Each person is 5 GC;
each mount is 1 GC.
They even offered Simyn some advice: find
and stay at the Green Oasis Inn. No reason
was given; just a comment that they
should stay there.
As the seven entered the city, Simyn noted
the man he and Arcadian had intervened to
help save was already well up the street,
and he turned to offer a last wave of
thanks.
If for any reason you split the
group, let me know. If you
have tagalongs with you, let
me know. Remember that
interaction checks (Gather
Information, Knowledge,
Bluff, etc) will be important
for finding leads, finding
vendors, finding anything.
Once they were all inside, the guards came
in behind them, pulled a release lever and
let the portcullis slam down onto the
foundation stone so hard that it gouged
chunks of stone out. Then they slid two
locks into place on either side and walked
away to the south.
Before the companions lay Teph, city of
concentric rings and layers, for when there
was nowhere to expand outward, the city
grew upward. It was tallest in the center,
flattest out here on the rim. Major streets
radiated outward like spokes from a wheel,
with other roadways linking between them
like an erratic spider web.
They were closer to Ameesha--and Egoliah-than ever before, yet they were still had
no starting point, no leads. Arcadian
wasted no time. He began asking for a
overwrap cloak that would effectively hide
his gear. The fruit peddler he asked
answered in rough North Common. There
was a shop a few hundred feet down the
road that sold desert attire.
Within minutes, Arcadian had found exactly what he wanted. For the cost of 10 GC, he could have one. He eagerly handed over the
money and took the garment and rejoined the others.
The streets were thinning out a bit, a sign that the hot hours of the day were upon them. Most people would seek indoor shelter, but
others still meandered about.
Rules,
Rulings
Simyn paid the man's fine and also the taxes for entry. He also paid for himself
and Starfall. As they rode in and was out of earshot of the guards, Simyn
spoke:
"The guard recommended the Green Oasis Inn. I'm not sure if it's a one of the
finer or more reliable inns in this town, if there indeed are any fine inns in this
wretched place. It could be a start and perhaps information could be found
there. It seems that money will get you anywhere in this city."
Commentary- Shopping
If you could let me know what I need for these potions, Kai
Lord, or if I'm making too many for one night.
For the satchel I'm thinking something that doesn't weigh any
pounds, if possible, but can carry four items.
***
Valestar looked around him in amazement at the myriad of shops. After
collecting the khanjar from the last fight, he had decided to sell his short
sword. He could surely peddle it here for some money. Perhaps there were
shops that sold books of spells, or ingredients for his alchemy. He'd decided to
mix some special potions this night. Another truth potion. He also wanted to
make an illusion potion, one that when broken would cause those who smelled
it to have hallucinations of the most frightful things. Then a sleeping potion
could be helpful as well. And finally, he wanted to make a couple acidic
compounds that could burn through steel. Good as weapons and as tools.
He also wanted to buy a side satchel, something less cumbersome than a
backpack.
***
Valestar was anxious to start his shopping. "I say we take the guard's
recomendation," he said, having had the conversation translated for him by Sol
Hawk via telepathy. "We can get our stuff situated there and then go our ways
for a bit. I doubt we're planning on acting immediately? I'd like to mix up some
potions that could help us, and it will take me the day and possibly the night as
well."
***
Simyn turned to Valestar. "If you would permit me, I'd enjoy the possibility to
help you with your purchases. I don't know much about alchemy since that
craft never has taken my fancy but I would be interested to learn anything you
could tell me about the theories and beliefs behind the magic. I speak the
Vassan language as well, which might help transactions."
Simyn enjoyed the thought of actually doing some scholary pursuits. It had
been a while since he and Valestar had the chance to talk of such matters.
***
Pray, take care, intoned Sol Hawk, and remember that we are all here to find
out where Ameesha is. Let us all meet at the Inn within two hours - then we
may sup and make a plan in private.
***
OOC: 1 WP for
Telepathy
before parting
Two Gather Info checks needed:
One for the side satchel (DC10)
One for the alchemical components (DC18)
You can add +5 on both for each hour of asking around.
Also, let me know if you split from the group on your own. I'm
also assuming this is after finding a place to stay for the night.
Yeah, Valestar will wait till he knows where everyone will be
staying, then he'll go off on his own, unless someone else has an
interest in going with him. Do I need anything special for these
potions, like I will for the truth potion? I may as well get that one
out of one of the companions.
Your hair would work for the illusion potion (someone who
has recently had a nightmare). Gallowbrush is used in the
sleeping potion. The acidic potions would be distilled animal
stomach acid--available in the shop if you're able to find it.
You've already got the alchemical kit, and no special pieces would
be needed for these (standard distillation setup, alembics,
mortars/pestles, etc.)
The purified water, acid vials, gallowbrush, and bottle/stoppers to
hold all the potions would cost 50GC. 40GC if you pass a
Diplomacy Check at DC20 (that is, if you find an alchemical
outlet).
Okay, as soon as the group decided where it will be, I'll
make those rolls, because I'll be able to give you how many hours
I ask around. Probably two hours, maybe three. Can I start with
just a regular check and then add hours until I've passed? Or do
you want the hours given beforehand?
Already Valestar saw several people wearing satchels like he was looking for.
So those he'd be able to buy, at least.
You can do an initial check for asking around while heading
to the Inn. Someone needs to do a Gather Info for the inn's
location first, though.
Simyn said he'd accopmany Valestar. "That would be good," Valestar said. "We
can finish that interesting discussion we were having on the origins of the
people of Southern Magnamund." Maybe he could also use the sage as the
person he'd need for the truth potion. If Valestar trusted anyone with his
secret, it would be the Sage. He just hoped it wouldn't create a lasting hatred.
On my way to the inn, not only do I manage to find a
satchel, I find dozens in different colors: 19+2=21
Unfortunately, the alchemy stuff I'll have to spend two extra
hours tracking down: 8+2=10
***
Arcadian simply nodded to the guard who had threatened him and quickly paid
his 6 gold crown fee for his horse and himself. Once inside the city he was able
to purchase the cloak he needed. Ten gold crowns seemed steep for such a
cloak but the Vakeros decided against arguing.
Arcadian wants to find a translating book from North Speak
to Vassan. Perhaps after some hours of study he will be able to
understand at least common phrases and words of the langauge?
Gather Information Check: 12
He needed it.
Once he had the cloak donned he made his way back to Iri. Once he was sure
that nobody was looking he took his blue-steel shortsword and placed it under
his cloak, in order to hide the weapon. Arcadian instantly felt better about his
situation. Murdach's fine scimitar was at his side, and unless he came upon the
direst of situations he wouls use it over his own blade.
Arcadian made his way back to the others, dressed in his new garb. The
Vakeros took his hair out of his ponytail, hoping that the long hair would keep
from anyone discerning him as a Dessi. Thankfully the Dessi and the Vassan
had nearly equally dark skin.
He looked at Simyn, Sol Hawk, Hawkeye, and Sir Victor. Their skin, though
darkened some by their time spent in the desert was still considered as pale in
these parts.
"So...what now?"
***
The knight was glad that he did not have to intervene at the gate. If things had
gotten any worse, he would have felt compelled to defend the girl against the
sharnazim guards, and that could have compromised their mission severely.
When his turn came, he paid the entry fee and rode into the city.
"We need to establish a base of operations. I think that inn sounds as good as
anything else right now, since none of us are really familiar with this city. We
can wash away the dust from the desert and rest for some time, then we can
make plans for finding Ameesha in this hornets' nest."
***
I will attempt to reroll if allowed.
Rules, Rulings
OOC: KL, is it true that I can wear Leather
Armour with my Underleathers for an added
bonus? Shame on me, gave away my old
Leather Armour and might have to buy new if
SV has some change!
"Sir Victor, I agree," said Sol Hawk, "The inn will make a fine base of operations, and those Sharnazim, now favourably
inclined towards us (now that we've lined their pockets in gold) are known to enjoy that place and will be of all the
soldiers here the least likely to give us a hard time. Sir Victor, I must also ask, if you would be so kind, to pay my way
while we are here since I cannot afford to pay." Sol Hawk thought also about his camels and also whether it would be
best to leave them in Teph and select fresh mounts, or whether he should retain them both in anticipation of the long
journey back to Chadan. Ah, if only it could be so easy! If only they could find Ameesha quickly and escape with her
across the sands! Sol Hawk's heart sank, though, when he realized that Egoliath, a man with a vast army at his
command, could snatch the girl back at will, even should they be able to return her home. Was Kubudei dead? Sol
Hawk hoped not. But if he was, that would mean only one thing - Ameesha would become the standing ruler of Anari
(if Sol Hawk remembered Anari's political structure correctly) and with the girl secretly under Egoliath's control...
OOC: Cade, you might be able to "buy"
Vassan with your L10 skillpoints - foggy on
that tho
Sol Hawk nodded his approval at Arcadian's new cloak. Had Sol not known the Vakeros, he'd have been a man who
appeared too dangerous to approach with long blowing hair around two stern and deadly eyes. Yet Sol smiled instead,
reflecting upon the seemingly contradictory fact that fast friends and great joy could be bred from the most dire and
life-threatening hardships.
"I hear that you have been practicing your Vassan," said Sol Hawk, remembering the impressive actions of Cade at the
gate, "I would be pleased to teach you what I know if you are interested."
***
Korlaeth asked a couple of locals where to find this "Green Oasis" inn, weaving in how he'd been all over the other six
original cities along the coastal rim, but never here. They gladly obliged him by telling him it was located along the
road on the north side of the Oasis Park, just to the north of them, in the Lodging Quarter.
They also explained that the city was divided into 4 sections: housing, lodging, merchant, slums. Housing was where
the residents lived who could afford the quarterly Resident Tax. Lodging was for displaced and/or temporary travelers.
The Slums were for those who could not afford the Resident Tax. And the Merchant area was self explanatory.
Okay, I did the Gather Info check for finding
the inn. All you guys want to just wander
Using
around aimlessly it seems.
Korlaeth's +9 bonus and ability to inflect
properly, it was no trouble. I've finally got a
large one-page excel chart printed out with
everyone's stats on it. Very handy.
With finding the inn as a priority, the group walked along the large road they were on, having no difficulties since the
normal crowds of people had all moved into other quarters for the hot hours. Several shops lined both sides of the
road, but the shops to the north had a large wall behind them.
They came to find out they were on Longsword Street. This was familiar to Simyn, who knew that it was the longest
straight road in the city, leading through all the old "outer" walls straight into the heart of the city. During the almost
half-mile journey, Valestar easily found the satchels he required (cost = 7 GC apiece), but neither he nor Arcadian
could find the other items they sought.
Eventually then reached the Third Wall, which was at one time long ago the outmost wall surrounding the city. The
guards there would not let them past, for they were not merchants nor guild members nor military. This suited them
fine, for they took the road that turned northward and skirted around the Third Wall. Within minutes, the wall on their
left opened up to a magnificent foliage-covered area. People walked throughout the park, enjoying the natural shade
afforded them. Two roads branched off from the street they were on (Outer Third Street). They took the north one and
after another bit of walking they found Green Oasis Inn.
A pair of women exited from the side of the inn and offered to take the animals to the stables. They explained that all
stabling fees were included in the price of a room.
The inn itself was a bit of a shock, considering the usual decor of lodging in other parts of Magnamund. The room was
well-lit with sconces around the walls, and dark blinds were drawn down across the windows to keep the hot sunlight
out. There was no smoke hanging in the air, for stationed around the room were people with large fans who always
kept the air moving about.
A servant male exited from behind the counter and greeted everyone cordially, if a bit overly-friendly. He seated them
at a large table on one side of the room and presented them with actual menus. It was virtually unheard of to choose
food to eat--most inns served one or two meals a day, and if you didn't like it, you ate elsewhere.
After everyone had ordered (some by pointing, others in speech), one of the stabling girls arrived and handed a slip of
paper to the servant. He nodded and stated that the stabling fee would be added, and the cost for private rooms, per
night, meals included, was 15 GC.
***
Introducing:
Egoliah's rage was not sated. He tossed the bloodied khanjar onto the large map of Vassagonia he had spread out on
the table next to him. He rang a small gong then, and two servants entered, quickly glancing at the body on the floor
with the slit throat, then looking forward in attention just as quickly. They did not want a similar fate.
"Remove this," said Egoliah, waving the body off as if it were nothing more than a plate of untouched food.
Egoliah
(NPC)
Egoliah
Elder brother to
Tava’ryn and
commander of
Aymodani, Egoliah
is the mastermind
behind recent
events in
Vassagonia,
Cloesia, and Anari.
No one knows this.
He sighed and turned to look out the window across Teph, toward the south, and fumed. If the slain messenger's
report was to be believed, his brother--the most powerful Overlord in the region--had been slain by a banou with only
one shot from a bow.
Tava'ryn the Raptor, felled by a Dessi-born's arrow.
No doubt these were Kubudei's hired monkeys. They sought Ameesha, and they likely sought him. Good. Let them
come. The moment a Vakeros showed up in Teph, they were as good as dead. If there were Kai with him as well, they
would also die. For too long Vassagonia had sat in her lair, her expansion caged on all sides.
No longer. He had single-handedly changed that.
Tears of grief and anger and pride mixed. It was he who had diverted the Black Tax into Teph, fueling his own power
while Barrakeesh assumed Casiorn had stopped paying. It was he who had drawn Anari and Cloeasia against one
another, then laid waste to the armies that would oppose invasion. It was he who had found a way to overcome the
Vakeros, and he who had initiated negotations with the dark agent for the downfall of the Kai.
With Tava'ryn gone, his direct influence in the Empire had weakened. But his power and status and reputation was not
affected. He himself would ascend to the throne of the Zakhan. He himself would-A knock on the door interrupted his dreams of grandeur and power. Kavan entered, eyeing the cleanup of the
messenger's blood.
"You can't keep killing the messengers, my lord. There are few who want the job when they know how it typically
ends."
"I did not ask your counsel, Ki-avhan," he said dangerously. "In light of news of my brother's death by these dogs,
what news do you bring?" The implication was clear--Kavan was nothing more to him than another messenger at the
moment.
"They are here," said Kavan, opening his arm in a flourish toward the door.
Rules, Rulings
Simyn paid for his room and board with fifteen gold crowns. Since
they had arrived in Teph, the sage had constantly been watching over
his purse. There was surely pickpockets around, and since he was a
clearly a foreigner, he was free to prey upon.
Commentary- Keron
School
"I guess we need to discuss certain matters. Privately" the sage said
to the companions.
***
I have a total value of 1039 GC in gold
and platinum, or not quite enough for
all 7 of us for a tenday.
On another topic, drats! They already
know we're here...
OOC: SV, Sol Hawk needs 21 gold - 6
for entry into the city, probably already
paid, and 15 more for the inn, assuming
we stay.
OOC: Perception: 19
Sol Hawk also wants to know if there is
an obvious palace in the city - perhaps
he saw it while they were on Longsword
Street.
Quote:
On another topic, drats! They
already know we're here...
Actually, no they don't. The "they are
here" remark is in reference to a section
of that post I left out. A post where a
group of about a dozen particular people
enter. So, no worries about being
discovered yet.
Edit: Also, there was no sign of a palace
anywhere. It is logical, however, that all
the "important" buildings would be in
the city core, that part that used to be
the old residential and mercantile
sections. The walls provide an extra
level of security and a barrier to normal
folk wandering in. Any attempts to get
past these walls (since there is no sewer
system) will rely either upon disguises,
passes, invitations, or stealth (as you
sneak over).
I am hoping someone comes up with a
grand plan once all the information is
gleaned.
OOC: KL, is it true that I can wear
Leather Armour with my Underleathers
for an added bonus?
Q: Underleathers go under leather
armor?
A: Yes.
Okay, I have the splits as follows:
Korlaeth + Hawkeye (tentative): Finding
an operative in Teph
Valestar + Simyn: Finding an alchemist
or apothecary
That leave Sol Hawk, Sir Victor, and
Arcadian at the inn. Are any of you
going out? After Korlaeth's answer to
Hawkeye's tagalong request, and any
other plans for you three to leave, I'll
update everything.
Valestar: For every hour you ask around
(well, that Simyn asks around), you can
add +5 to your roll to find the shop you
need.
"Of course, Sol, the coins I carry were found in our travels, from our
enemies' pockets. I carry them for all our needs. Just tell me how
much you need," said the knight. He also added, addressing the group
"15 gold a night per person is a lot. Do we really need all this luxury?
Of course, it might prove to be the best place for our base of
operations, however, we'll need to pool our resources and see how
long we could afford to stay in such a luxurious place."
***
"Thank you," said Sol Hawk, taking just enough from Sir Victor to
cover his immediate needs, "With any luck, we will not be here for a
long stay - if we must stay another night, we are best off choosing a
different inn each night."
Sol Hawk nodded and smiled at the girl who had accepted his mount,
taking his ticket of receipt and verifying the location of the stables. He
patted his camel on the nose and whispered something reassuring to
it - he had fought and served well.
I had never considered it, but given the secret
nature of the school, I'm sure it would behoove
Dessi to have spies inside the major circles of their
enemy.
Sol kept his eyes open for anything out of the unusual. He expected
that they would soon be discovered by Egoliath. Though he did not
cherish the thought, he would not have been surprised if the powers
of Kubudei's daughter had been turned to their enemy's will by now.
Of course, though Sol Hawk hoped also that the bulk of Egoliath's
men were tied up by the war, this advantage would not last long. If
anything, it would be best for them to sleep now while it were still
possible and then strike at Egoliath's stronghold during the night
hours. Of course, first they would have to find out where that was,
and also the location of Ameesha.
So, the answer is yes, you are certain there would
be other Keron agents in town. Now, it's up to you
to find a way to locate them without bringing
attention to either them or yourself.
I'll even go as far as to allow you to create the
name of the person you're trying to contact, since
he/she went to "school" with you.
***
Once the companions were set up with rooms and had a quick meal,
Korlaeth stood as if to go out the door. Just as he was about to leave,
the others mentioned discussion of plans. He paused, still unused to
working with a group in matters like this.
Korlaeth: DC to find this person is 30. Should be
no problem for you.
"I was about to go looking for some information. I'm sure I can find
something about those we're seeking." Korlaeth said to the others,
obviously anxious to go, but willing to wait for a plan of action...if it
didn't take too long.
***
Hawkeye paid the 15 gold crown needed for the lodging for the night,
looking around to see everyone else has paid for theirs. He didn't
speak much till they have reached the inn and go about looking for
their rooms. The others mentioned of coming up with a plan, their
next course of action, to which Hawkeye strongly agreed.
"We will come up with a plan, but after that, me and Korlaeth will go
info-hunting. It will be much faster for both of us. I doubt being in the
streets in a city like this is a walk in the park. if you don't mind,
Vakeros." Hawkeye nodded towards Korlaeth, who clearly didn't
expect Hawkeye to volunteer to tag along.
Is that a Gather Information check, KL?
Yes.
***
"Yes," agreed Sol Hawk, "that is the right thing to do. I am more
comfortable with you both going together, for as you have said,
Hawk, the streets are not as safe as we would like them to be." Sol
Hawk had felt a new ability growing in him, and this was the ability
called Camouflage. After watching Hawkeye in the streets of Chadan,
Sol Hawk had felt the presence of this new strength growing within
him. He realized what this meant - he had become now a Kai Master.
With his new rank came even greater responsibility, and he felt his old
uncertainties falling away as he considered his destiny - the
Disciplines called the Magnakai. The wisdom of these skills had been
passed down from Sun Eagle for generation after generation. Those
Kai Lords who were able to master that level of training were indeed
considered seniors among their peers, having come closest of all to
the grace and gifts that had come down to them from Kai himself.
Of course, despite his newly-realized power, Sol Hawk knew well that
even as a Kai Master, his skills of Camouflage and Stealth were
nowhere near as developed as those of Hawkeye and Korlaeth. It was
they that should go, for he knew that his presence would jeopardise
the mission.
Well, can I use my battle magic to add +20?
Because otherwise DC 30 is going to be hard to
get with only a +10.
Yeah, you can use it. Or you can opt for the "every
hour = +5 bonus" rule that I'm giving Valestar.
"Let us do what we may before you depart," said Sol Hawk, "and then
we may set you upon the trail. This city, deadly as it is, has
everything we need to complete our appointed tasks."
***
I'll be posting my actions
tommorow. Just letting you know I'm
still here!
I hadn't thought of it before, but is it plausible that
there would Keron college Vakeros agents, or at
least well-known contacts in Teph (and other
places)? Speaking of which, I need to level up...
Korlaeth hesitated at first, but Satha, if Korlaeth was remembering
who was currently in Teph correctly, needn't let Hawkeye know he
was Vakeros. Korlaeth nodded at Hawkeye and turned to look at Sol,
surprised to find himself waiting for the Kai lord's go ahead before he
left.
Guess who made the DC 30 straight up?
Rules,
Rulings
OOC: Sol Hawk
will use Sudden
Foresight and
also Dangerous
Whispers while
waiting around
in the lobby.
Ok Sol, I
paid your 21
GC for entering
the city and for
the night's
accommodatio
ns. I'm also
paying my 15
GC.
@SH:
Your Kai skills
alternate in
sweeping the
room. There is
no one hidden
anywhere, and
the most
dangerous
thing you can
sense are the
Overlord's
weapons. Most
everyone else
is armed to
some extent,
except the
servers and
"fanboys".
Nothing seems
threatening.
Korlaeth looked to Sol Hawk expectantly, somehow correctly realizing that Sol Hawk had something to say. "Be careful," he said finally, "and
remember that Ameesha attempted to contact us through Arcadian before, so be ready in case she attempts to send another message to you or to
you, Master Mage. And take this," he said, handing Hawkeye and Korlaeth each a potion of Laumspur, "and watch out for one another. Let us meet
back in the inn's main dining area at sundown. That is many hours from now. Perhaps Sir Victor and Arcadian would be so kind as to assist me with
the purchase of some new armour. Simyn and Valestar, while at the apothecary, do you think you might be able to acquire enough antitoxin for us
all? I fear we may soon have need of it and we will need every ace in the hole that we can get."
As Sol, Sir Victor, and Arcadian then entered the inn, Sol Hawk waited patiently as Sir Victor acquired the room. His next thought was a quick run on
the local market for an opportunity to purchase a set of Leather Armour. But even just before he could mention the plan to his friends, Sol Hawk
became cautious - had their enemies found them already? He extended his Kai Sixth Sense in all directions, even though he appeared completely at
ease to onlookers.
***
The big Ruanese was content to accompany Sol on his errand, since he also carried the money the Kai Lord would likely need to pay for the armourer.
He hoped his lack of knowledge of the Vassan tongue would not hamper him, however in a city this large, they were bound to be able to speak
Norther with someone.
***
Valestar motioned to Simyn that he was prepared to go. The Kai Lord Sol Hawk seemed anxious, but for once Valestar felt perfectly at ease. Since his
defeat of the demon he had felt stronger. He could sense their danger, but he felt detached from it. In any case, the objective at hand was finding
some ingredients for the potions. He was a bit confused as to where everything was in the city, and was glad the observant and knowledgable sage
would be accompanying him.
***
Korlaeth nodded to all and waved to Hawkeye as he stood up and headed for the door.
***
Arcadian watched the three pairs depart one by one. He hadn't volunteered to go with anyone--he wasn't in the mood, because the person he would
prefer to go with wasn't here anymore. He listened to the locals talking, and he could make out words here and there that sounded similar to the
Eldreth language. Interesting. But not interesting enough. He plopped his napkin down on the table and stood, walked over to the stairs and went to
his room.
The Vakeros raised his eyebrows, impressed. The room was actually clean. There were flat rugs on the floor, drapes and blinds on the windows, and a
lamp full of oil beside the bed. At the foot of his bed was all his gear that he didn't have with him, along with a small slip of paper held in place with a
pebble.
He couldn't make out the words, but they looked like Eldreth for "stable" and the number 7 or 17. It must be where his horse was kept. Tired of the
long adventure, he locked the door, took the prop from the window and leaned against it (so it would fall over if someone opened it), then laid down
and closed his eyes.
---------Valestar and Simyn were the first to leave, talking as they went about many things, ignoring the looks from the people who happened to be out.
Simyn was sure his skin was an uncommon shade to these dark folk. Valestar would blend in somewhat better, being tanned as he was.
Simyn kept a check on all the stores they passed as they meandered southward into the Merchant Quarter. About the closest thing they found to an
alchemical store was a Mineral Vendor. Figuring it might interest Valestar, Simyn stopped and told him what the name of the store was:
Stones and Bones
---------Meanwhile, Sir Victor and Sol Hawk took a southwestern path. The Ruanese drew plenty of looks himself. Brawn was not a common trait among these
people. Sol Hawk walked cautiously along, trying to stay alert for trouble. During the day, nothing much was likely to happen, though.
In about an hour, they came across a shop that might be useful:
Fangs of the Serpent
They entered and saw that it was nothing more than a pet store that dealt in snakes of various types, including the poisonous sand asp. The Kai
considered talking to one of these creatures, but he figured they were not intelligent enough to comprehend.
Noting the features of the pair, the owner spoke in sharply accented North Common, "Eez 'ere sahmtheeng you zeek frahm ol Mazzarah?"
---------Korlaeth walked around town and used Hawkeye as a second pair of eyes. He was on the lookout for a certain mark on the corner of a building.
Hawkeye found one on a clothing store owned by a Northlander:
Gwen's Tephani Apparel
He gestured for Hawkeye to wait outside while he entered. Not even the Kai were allowed to hear what he was about to say. Upon entering, the owner
walked out, flaunting her Northlander appearance in stark contrast to the modest Vassan. Her pale skin provided the perfect palette for wisps of blue
and purple around her eyelids, pinks on her cheeks, and vibrant red on her lips. Her blond hair bounced as she hopped onto a stool behind a large Ushaped table covered with fabrics and patterns and sewing items.
Korlaeth spoke first, holding his right index finger to his left cheek, under his eye. "Greetings. May all that is hidden be revealed to you in due time."
Her eyebrows raised. "And in due time to you," she said. She bowed her head slightly, then touched her fingertips to her forehead.
"My oldest sister Karen lives in this city with her friend. It is important that I see her," he said continuing the ritual recital.
Gwen nodded. "You are both far from home. Doesn't that make you sad and blue?"
Korlaeth placed his hand over his heart now and nodded.
"When I am home, I am happy and blue at the same time."
Gwen smiled. "Very well. Are you seeking Satha or Kalur?" Korlaeth answered, and Gwen told him to wait a minute. She went into the back room,
behind some drapes for a minute. Korlaeth looked out the window--Hawkeye was still there.
Gwen reappeared. "Take this." She handed him a rolled up document. "You'll need this to enter Third City. Go the the Guild Area and find the Hall of
Vessels."
"Vessels?"
"She makes the finest blue-tinted pottery in all Teph," said Gwen with a wink.
Korlaeth thanked her and exited. He examined the document--it would allow him through, but not Hawkeye. What now?
Rules, Rulings
Act VI, Scene IX – Finding the Right Combination
As they walked in the crowded streets of Teph, Simyn could not help but asking something he had been willing to
ask Valestar since that strange day in the desert when they had escaped the Vassagonian army.
"What really happened that day in the desert, when you suddenly fell down. We thought you had been hurt, but it
seemed worse than that. Something attacked me as well. Something evil... Care to talk about it? I must say that I
have noticed a change in you, my friend. You seem to be stronger.
"The sign says stones and bones. A rather omnious sign, but perhaps we can find what you need in here."
***
I'm hoping this is the alchemy shop. If not, we'll
have to spend another hour or so. Do I need to do
any rolls for ingredients here?
Valestar did not take offense at Simyn's questions. Indeed, he felt it his duty to explain what had almost happened
to the young sage. And he personally felt a great liking for the man. He said so, and invited him back to Dessi for a
time when their mission was completed. There, he told the sage, they would peruse the libraries of knowledge
together. Then he began his story. But their conversation kept leading into tangents. Valestar first tried to explain
a little about the spirit world, which led into a long winded discussion about religion and its different facets. A
discussion of the demon itself led into a questioning of the authenticity of Naar, and also the things that evil had
inspired. The defeat of the demon, and Valestar's growing stronger because of it led to them wondering on the
ways that evil had, indirectly, given rise to good things. The ways that evil and good may be propogating the
other. Yet despite all these tangents, the majority of the story came out in the end. Simyn learned that Valestar
had been haunted by a demon since his days at the academy, and that upon Valestar growing too strong for the
demon, it tried to inhabit another body. He didn't say the origins of the demon. He would tell Simyn that later,
while he was making the truth potion, for it was his darkest secret, and he relied upon it to make this particular
serum.
Around the time that Valestar finished his story, Simyn pointed out a shop. Curious, thinking it may be filled with
alchemical ingredients, the two went inside.
***
Simyn thought the story of Valestar was rather interesting, although the mage had a hard time of keeping it to the
point. It seemed that Valestar enjoyed learning as much as Simyn did and took any chance he could get to discuss
scholary subjects. Simyn could not help but wonder if there was something the Dessi mage just did not want to
speak about.
***
"What about you?" Valestar asked. "What is your history? How did you fall in with the others?"
***
As soon as they entered the store, the pair realized it was not a true alchemical store. On one side of the store was
the "Stones" part of the name. Myriad gemstones in rough, uncut form lined the shelves. There was even a section
of stones used in the newly explored science of chemistry.
Feel free to continue the conversation.
On the other side of the store were the "Bones". Different animal and human bones, ranging from legbones to
spinal columns to skulls and jaws, were laid out on long shelves. All the bones were thoroughly clean and
sunbleached.
Behind the counter, a wiry man in loose rag-like attire sat and smiled at his two potential customers. Beneath him
was a glass case with cut gems and polished bones. In a unique combination of the two, there were gem-inlaid
bone daggers.
"Ah, yes, come and find what you seek. All items are salvaged from the Dry Main."
***
"Well, it's a rather long story, but I happened to be travelling in Vassagonia. I had visited a fellow scholar in
Barrakeesh and I passed through Chahdan, when I was approached by some rather annoying fellows who warned
rather explicitly to take the shortest route to Anari. I taught their leader a rather harsh lesson in swordplay and I
then rode through the mountains, where I happened to stumble on a hidden Vassagonian army camp. Since I at
that time was rather curious, why they had hidden troops so close to the Anari border, I decided to investigate.
The army later broke up from their camp and I had to relocate. I got detected and had to run towards the Anari
border, where I discovered that the border had been closed, so I had to sneak past the border guards. I then
stumbled upon a group of the Talons of Rashuur, the Cloeasian mercenaries in Anari! I have to admit that I was
mighty confused by all these military people being in places they shouldn't and when I met Arcadian, Sol Hawk and
the others, I decided to follow them in what seemed a worthy quest."
Occult roll for seeing if any of the ingredients are
helpful for any of the potions I wish to make: 10
Perception to see what the items are for, and
anything else I can sense about the shop: 19
Appraise the daggers: 12
Occult results: Nothing is useful for anything you
want to make. Other potions, maybe; the ones in
question, no. Bones are useful for gaseous potions
that repel undead (of which there has been none
so far). Certain gemstones can be set into an
alchemical device called Solar Foci (a series of
lenses that focus direct sunlight into more
concentrated forms, and filter out unwanted
wavelengths of light). These gemstones have to be
cut to certain specifications.
Perception results: This appears to be a raw
materials store. The raw materials are loose on the
shelves for sale. Processed materials are available
in the glass case (cut gems, polished bone). You
notice quite easily that some of the bones on the
shelves are human in nature.
Appraise results: They'd cost between 100-200
Crowns each.
Diplomacy check at DC20 to drop the price by
15GC. For every point over 20, that's an extra 1
GC off the already low price.
***
"Very interesting tale," Valestar said, as he looked around the shop, noting a sharp smell of must. He was looking
to see if there was anything he could use for his alchemy. The daggers caught his eye and he inquired about them.
***
The merchant held up a finger to ask for a moment when Valestar asked about the daggers. The man then got up
from behind the counter and walked over to the door, where he flipped a small metal bolt latch before walking
back to his seat.
"No offense, please. After I was robbed last year, I trust no one now."
He opened the display case and removed the daggers, which he placed on the table. "Perfect balance, unfailing
sharpness."
He held up a rag and slid the dagger down it, splitting the seams effortlessly. "The spines of a sand-drake are very
hard to process. Without a special mixture of tree resins and acids, they would chip and shatter once they dried
out. But, in the hands of an artisan like myself, I can craft these fine weapons."
He let Valestar hold the daggers and pass them to Simyn for inspection. "I can sell them at 140 Crowns each."
***
The daggers were really of superior workmanship. Simyn was eager just to buy one just so he could enjoy the
amazing craftmanship. "Do you want one?" he asked Valestar. "Although I don't have much use for it, I'm tempted
to buy one myself. I'm a rather good haggler, perhaps I can negotiate a good price for you."
***
Valestar laughed. "We really are alike," he said. "I also wish to obtain one just for the craftsmanship, but I think
we'd better save our money. I have a fine khanjar on me from..." he almost said 'our battle against the
Vassagonians,' but at the last moment he caught himself. "... er, from the last city."
Rules, Rulings
In mechanics terms, they are non-magical daggers
of keen edge. +1 to melee damage from them.
They also carry 0 encumbrance due to their
negligible weight.
Small
Small
Small
Small
mammal/reptile
mammal/reptile
mammal/reptile
mammal/reptile
Medium
Medium
Medium
Medium
legs, ribs: 5 GC each
spine: 20 GC
skull: 20 GC
jawbone: 8 GC
mammal/reptile
mammal/reptile
mammal/reptile
mammal/reptile
legs, ribs: 10 GC each
spine: 45 GC
skull: 50 GC
jawbone: 20 GC
Bird/snake bones: 3 GC
Bird/snake skull: 5 GC
Small human bones: 20 GC
Long human bones: 40 GC
Human spine: 100 GC
Human skull: 120 GC
---------Gemstones, small, uncut: 20 GC
Gemstones, small, faceted: 50 GC
Gemstones, small, foci-crafted: 100 GC
Gemstones, medium, uncut: 35 GC
Gemstones, medium, faceted: 70 GC
Gemstones, medium, foci-crafted: 200 GC
Can Valestar tell which of the bones would have
been good against undead? That will help decide
my purchases.
And, um, what will I need for those potions I
mentioned earlier?
Any of the bones would work for potential undead
repellant.
Suddenly anxious, feeling as though he was being watched, Valestar quickly asked to purchase some of the bones
and a gemstone, which he recognized could be useful for other alchemical purposes.
"Let me purchase this and then we can move on to the alchemy shop," he said to Simyn. He then asked the
storekeeper, "do you know of any alchemical shops in Teph?"
***
"Alchemists? Yes, I know many. For common items, you must go down this road to Kanoura Street. Look for a
store named "The Little Oasis". There is a glass-blower next to him who makes the glasswares, including the Solar
Focusing apparatus for these foci-crafted stones. Very handy, but only for skilled alchemists--not dabblers."
He completed the sale and moved to unlock his door.
The two followed the directions to the store they would have never thought to be an alchemist's shop. The man
inside was clearly not Vassan, and his store seemed more like a plant shop than an alchemist's store. All around
were various plants in different stages of growth. The entire room smelled pungent with fresh earth. Indeed, the
floor was not sand, but rather normal dark soil, like one would find in a forest or field.
A small, slightly overweight man who was tending a tall straight plant never looked at them as they entered.
"Please wipe your sandy feet on the mat in front of you please."
The obliged him, wondering just how he managed to keep his shop so...well, humid. The change between the
outside and this shop was noticeable. He shuffled over to greet them--one leg was crippled, and he favored it
terribly.
Valestar could not help but look, for the limp was so bad. "Yes, an old injury from my younger adventuring days,"
he said unashamedly. "But that is not why you are here. Or maybe it is?" He shook his head and smiled.
"Bah, you tell me: how can Mathus help you today?"
***
Instantly Valestar liked the man. There was something about his manner that spoke of confidence, but also of
kindness. A life lived hard but lived well, and which was now moving into pleasant later years.
"My name is Valestar," said the mage. "This is a companion of mine, Simyn. We are here on personal business.
And I am looking for some very specific ingredients. But I may also be looking for a story later on, if you'd care to
stop by the inn we are at. I would buy you a meal and a drink in exchange to hear some of your stories of your
travels. Maybe some information about Teph as well, I have never been here before."
***
Mathus listened to Valestar's list of ingredients. "I can help you with all but one," he said. He walked over to a
small red-thorned plant and set it on the counter.
"Gallowbrush."
Your hair would work for the illusion potion
(someone who has recently had a nightmare).
Gallowbrush is used in the sleeping potion. The
acidic potions would be distilled animal stomach
acid.
He then walked into his stock room and came back with 4 small flasks of water. "This water is pure. There are no
mineral contaminants, even from the glass. It is a special blend from my friend next door, Akanon."
Mathus likes you. The gallowbrush will cost 10 GC
for enough for 2 potions. The bottles of water each
weigh 3/4 pounds (3 pounds total), and cost 4 GC.
Upon hearing Valestar's offer of a meal and companionship, Mathus smiled humbly. "Alas, I do not travel much
beyond my store. My plants and my earth need tending."
Val, you waiting on me to add something? In
case you are, I'm finished for the moment-nothing to add from Mathus based on what's been
done. Didn't know if you were unable to post or
thinking I had another post ready.
Simyn looked interested around the store. He had never dabbled in alchemy as many of his fellow scholars.
Alchemy just was not one of his fancies. He looked interested at the plants though, trying to recall their names and
where they could be found.
"The distilled acid? I do not know of a place to find that. Perhaps a butcher or farmer would have access to an
animal's stomach. Of course, you'd have to distill it yourself."
***
***
No, not waiting on anything, just got busy
this week! I'll post my buyings tonight, sorry for
the delay.
Valestar made his purchases, thanking Mathus, expressing his sorrow that they would not be able to talk in further
detail. He waited to see if Simyn was ready to go. "I'll explain what all of this is for on the way back to the inn," he
said. "Oh, and on the way we should see if I can sell off this shortsword. I don't suppose you'd be interested in
buying it, Mathus?"
Not a problem. That's one reason I split the
groups into different threads.
As he reached to show the shortsword, Valestar's hand brushed agaisnt the vial with the air elemental. He hads
forgotten about it. He drew it forth. "Or maybe this would interest you more," he said. "I know there's an
elemental inside of here, can you tell me anything else about it?"
***
Okay, so here's what I'd like to purchase.
Gallowbrush (10 gc) 4 bottles of water (3lbs, 16
gc), foci crafted medium gemstone (200 gc), 4
reptile legs/ribs and a spine (40 gc). What I need
to know is how much space this takes up, since
Valestar has only 4 spots left open in his satchel.
He can rearrange his saddlebags when he gets
back to the inn, but I need to know what he would
be able to carry with him to the inn.
It should all fit. None of it is really large.
Remember that you'll need a Solar Focus
apparatus to use the gemstone.
Mathus thanked the two for the sale, and as Valestar held up the elemental bottle, Mathus stopped raking coins
from the countertop and stared. He carefully took the bottle and turned it around, looking at the angry rolling
smoke inside of it.
"By the earth, I've never seen such." And likely never will again, he thought to himself.
"I know nothing about it other than what you say, but I have heard legend of people being able to summon and
trap elementals for their bidding." He sat it down carefully on the countertop.
"I'll pay you six hundred Crowns for it!"
***
Valestar was surprised at the offer. It must really be worth a lot if Mathus was willing to pay so much up front.
Valestar suspected it may be worth much more. But even more than that, he felt it still had a role to play in his
adventure.
He smiled kindly at Mathus. "I must refuse the generous offer," he said courteously. "I intend to bring it back to
Dessi, for further study. I was just curious if you knew anything, that is all." He slipped the vial back in his robe.
"Well," he said. "With my purchases made, I must return to the inn. Farewell, may your business see you in good
health for all your long days."
***
Simyn did understand Malthus eagerness to buy the item. It was a rare thing indeed and a worthy object for a
scholar to study.
Rules, Rulings
Before leaving the shop, Valestar asked Mathus if he knew where he could find a
solar focus. "By allowing me to directly control what areas of my concotion are
heated, it can be used to greatly enhance my potions," he explained to Simyn.
Commentary
Business finished, or did you want to try and
find a Solar Focus?
***
"Ah yes," Mathus said in understanding. "It truly would. There is an alchemist
shop near the Third City wall. It is run by a rather gruff man known only as the
BoneGrinder. His shop--I believe the name is Alchemistry--has all types of items
you would find useful."
The two thanked Mathus and went about their way, noting as they reached the
Third City wall that there wasn't much sunlight left. Finally they found it, a small
store with no windows to it. As they entered, the door triggered a bell, and a
large unclean man in a greasy shirt and pants walked to greet them.
I do not know, can it be used as a laser?
No. It's nothing more than an alchemical
"magnifying glass" that is used to enhance
potions by concentrating light of a certain
wavelength onto an alembic.
Kind of like a table-top orrery with discs for
foci-cut gems instead of planets.
"Yeah?"
Valestar mentioned the Solar Focus, and the man, who they could only assume
was named BoneGrinder, stared at them for a moment before turning without a
word and walking over to a cabinet above a shelf of flasks. He opened it and
pulled out a small three-armed device. He handed it to Valestar and folded his
arms.
"Solar Focus," he said matter-of-factly. "One hundred Crowns."
***
Appraise 8 on Solar focus
Even thoguh he'd been warned that BoneGrinder was rough, his manner put him
on edge. He observed the Solar Focus carefully, trying to appraise if it was in
good condition, or worth the price.
When he had finished with that, he glanced around the shop, wondering what
else they sold here.
***
From what you gather, 100GC
for such an apparatus is a fair
market price. It is unique to this
land, so it is likely to be costly.
There is nothing you see in the
shop that is different from what
you already have. There's not
much variation in alchemy when
it comes to base materials.
Simyn saw Valestar's interest in the Solar Focus. "Do you want it? I can buy it
for you, perhaps you can teach me some of the secrets of alchemy."
***
Valestar started to look around.
"Give it back if you're not paying." BoneGrinder reached out and pulled it from
the mage's arms. "You wanted a Solar Focus? Or something else?"
***
"We can split the cost," Valestar said. "And don't worry, I'll tell you the full
process of how I'll be making the potions."
I'll be updating my equipment
list shortly. I'll also post a
detailed descrition of how I'm
gonna make each potion, for
Simyn's sake.
The best price you're able
to get for the two is 25GC. If you
are finished with all the business
in town, you arrive back at the
inn just after sunset. You can
start posting in the main thread
again. Needless to say, the Solar
Focus is useless till sunrise
tomorrow.
I don't know about
Valestar, but I am finished.
I'm gonna make a post
about the potions, telling Simyn
how I plan to do it, that will take
the place of a desciprtion when I
actually make the potions, but I
can do that in the main thread.
After buying the Solar Focus, the two left the store and started back towards the
inn. "Keep an eye out for somewhere to sell off this short sword and crossbow,"
Valestar said. "I suppose I'm not a warrior mage after all," he added, chuckling.
"Maybe I'll pick up some darts instead, something less cumbersome. No, that
would look ridiculous in a fight. Ah well, I suppose if the magic runs out, I'll have
to rely on my feet to carry me far far away."
"Now, about these potions..."
***
Sure, why not?
Kailord wrote:
No. It's nothing more than an
alchemical "magnifying glass" that is
used to enhance potions by
concentrating light of a certain
wavelength onto an alembic.
Kind of like a table-top orrery with discs
for foci-cut gems instead of planets.
Of a certain wavelength? That's a laser my
dear friend. If Valestar gets possessed by that
demon again, he will be Magnamund's answer
to Dr. Evil.
Not necessarily a laser. Even though I
mention wavelength, there is no real
amplification or excitation involved--only
filtering and concentration.
Most clinical chemistry analyzers are basically
variants of a spectrophotometer. They have a
lamp which radiates light, which is then passed
through either a prism or a diffraction grating
or series of filters in order to isolate a certain
wavelength of light. Based on the amount of
"substance" tested for in the specimen, light
transmittance at that wavelength will be
affected.
What Valestar would be doing is no different
than putting blue saran wrap in front of a
flashlight, then using a magnifying glass to
focus that blue light on a bottle.
The basis of the Solar Focus is that in the real
world, using one wavelength of light can see if
something is in a liquid (for example, bilirubin).
In a world with true alchemy, though, using
one wavelength of light can enhance what is
already in the liquid (for example, make 1d4 =
1d4+2).
No sharks. No lasers. No bald maniacal men
telling you to "shh!"
Rules,
Rulings
Act VI, Scene X – In Search of a Cure
"I greet thee," said Sol Hawk, clearly fascinated by the wide variety of snakes in the room, "This one is a Kara Kalian Blackrattle," he said, "and
this one, a red-eyed sand asp. Both very rare," he said, "I've never seen so many snakes in one place."
***
"Yes!" exclaimed the shopkeeper. "Few can discern a true Blackrattle from a Northlandic marsh rattler. It is the small angular scales over the eyecrest you see."
He stood and walked to the cage with the asp. "This one is a prized serpent, retired from the games with over two dozen kill-steals! Faster
serpents are hard to find."
"But you, what do you seek?" He was obviously impressed by the Kai's initial knowledge with zoological classification.
***
The Ruanese was clearly impressed with the menagerie on display here. Sol's knowledge of the species was baffling for the layman knight, who's
animal lore didn't extend much farther than horses and farm animals. He stayed quiet and kept an eye out for pick pockets or other unwanted
observers, while the Kai lord talked with the shop keeper.
Perception: 31 for
anything that
might be of
interest
***
"Your collection is amazing," said Sol Hawk, "It must have taken years of effort for you to accumulate so many varieties in just one place!" Sol
Hawk looked down into a large basket which contained dozens of tiny green snakes - Sol Hawk realized that these ones also were deadly deceptively so for their size.
"So tell us about your wares and your business. I am quite an admirer of the desert's legless children. What do you have to offer?"
***
The praise upon the shopkeeper was not wasted. He literally beamed with pride at being recognized for his assortment of snakes. "I raise snakes
for many purposes. Some buy them for the games, some for pets, some...well, let us say that some buy them as farewell gifts to their enemies."
Smiling, he continued, "Whatever the reason, it provides me a means to live."
Sol Hawk glanced about, noticing over two dozen different species. His eyes reached into a back room whose door was open. On a table lay
several bottles of powder, along with many small barbs and needles. The man did not notice this all-encompassing scrutiny.
"So, let me guess. Two Northlanders here to try their luck at the games, eh? The prize asp is a guaranteed win, and it will cost you only three
hundred Crowns."
***
The knight's interest was immediately piqued by the last sentence the shop keeper said. "Sure, we're here for the games. What can you tell us
about them?"
***
Having noted the assortment of deadly items in the back room, Sol Hawk casually returned his gaze to Sir Victor, then to the merchant. He was
clearly ready to talk to them about his favorite subject, so Sol simply smiled amiably and awaited his response.
***
"The games are a contest held in Third City each week. Two serpents are placed on opposite sides of a ring. A small cage containing a skittermouse is then raised in the center of the ring. The first snake to successfully strike and catch the mouse wins."
He gestured to the Blackrattle. "These are forbidden, of course. They attack other snakes."
Sol asked about how the snakes could keep competing after a meal.
"Oh, the serpents are milked of venom before the competition--that is one of my roles--so that they cannot have unfair advantages over one
another. Speed is the winning factor, not poison. To keep them hungry, we quickly pin the winning snake using one of these."
He reached into a corner and produced a long stick with a forked end. Between the two prongs of the fork was a band of taut sinew. "It holds the
serpent in place where we can remove the skitter-mouse from its jaws."
He stroked his pointed chin whiskers. "Say, would you like to come to the games? I could sell you an asp and invitation--which is one of the only
ways to enter Third City. Legally, anyway." He smiled then, as if he knew of other ways.
***
"To those who hold a fascination for snakes, there is no greater honour than competing in Teph's own grande event, yet on arriving in Teph, we
were somewhat curious as to why the Third City, home of such a well-known event, should be so tightly restricted. Someone said that the leader
of the city commanded it, but I don't know what to believe. Is his royal palace within? Forgive me my impudence," said Sol Hawk in almost a
whisper, "but if you would tell me but where that great man dwells, I would consider our whole long journey through the desert worth every
hardship should I be able to see the competition and gaze upon the home of Teph's infamous leader as well."
Sol Hawk paused to hear what he could before asking the price of invitations to the event.
***
"The city is divided into rings," he said by way of explanation. "We are in what is commonly called the Main City. Third City is where those higher
up in society dwell. Those wealthy by inheritance or business dwell there. The Guild Halls are also located there, as are the temples and holy
places. They are an exception, in that anyone may enter there. However, they are more heavily patroled because they border directly on Second
City.
Sorry for the
delay, missed
seeing this one
was updated.
"Second City is where the government of the city resides. The bulk of the military is there, as are the judges and jails. Most of the rulers of the
various parts of the city are found either there or in Third City--depending on what it is they rule over. This includes organized entities and
decentralized ones.
"The Central City is nothing more than a large palace built inside two fortified walls. No one goes in or out of there unless the High Overlord
requests it. Do not count on ever seeing him even if you are convicted of the most heinous crime and sentenced to die before him.
"As to why the games are held in Third City: the security is tighter, the wealthy don't have to mingle with many of us, and it is outlawed in the
Main City."
***
Sir Victor thought they had heard enough.
"Thank you for sharing your wisdom with outsiders like ourselves. It has been pleasant talking with you." And, turning to Sol, added "Was there
anything else you needed to do here?"
Rules, Rulings
A Bluff may help as Sol
barters the asking price down.
20.
Sol Hawk considered the information - they now knew how to enter the Third City, and Sol Hawk had a suspicion that Ameesha
could only be kept away from public eye in just one place - the Center City. At Sir Victor's prompting, he hurried to conclude their
business.
"I won't be needing a new snake today," said Sol Hawk, "but we seem to have run low on antitoxin. One never knows what he will
have the opportunity to handle, so if you could possibly accomodate, a strong but versitile concoction would be of the most use. I
should say that some seven vials or so would do nicely, if it can be done." Sol Hawk smiled knowingly, realizing that their host
should certainly have what they needed.
***
The shopkeeper was visibly disappointed as Sol Hawk passed over purchasing a snake. He warmed back up somewhat when the
northlander mentioned antivenom.
OOC: The antivenom might be a
good idea considering all the
poison we've been running into,
and the price is right. SV, if you
agree, could you please pay for
this purchase?
"Yes, in this work, one can never have too much on hand."
He disappeared into the back and began rummaging around. All Sol Hawk and Sir Victor heard were boxes being moved and glass
clinking. The shopkeeper reappeared with a small crate: six bottles in it, with one laying on top between the bottle necks.
"Mind you, this will only work on snakes." He had to write down the numbers and do the math.
"140 Gold Crowns."
OOC: Looks like 175 more Gold
would be needed here, Sir Victor.
Starting to think this topic should
have been called "The Shopping
Spree"
***
"I thank you," said Sol Hawk, accepting the vials and handing one to Sir Victor as well. "And what of passes to the big event? How
much would these run apiece?"
***
"The event is 10 GC a person; free if you have a snake you wish to compete. But you need to get into Third City first. That would
cost 25 GC per visit--I would need a few minutes to draw up the documents."
@SH: Axl Rose said it best:
Welcome to the jungle
We got fun 'n' games
We got everything you want
Honey we know the names
We are the people that can find
Whatever you may need
If you got the money honey
We got your disease
The reason it costs so much to
enter Third City is because it is
essentially a wholesale district.
The Guilders use raw materials
to make merchandise and sell it
to some of the Main City
merchants. By going into Third
City yourself, you potentially
take money out of Main City.
This surcharge to enter is divided
among the merchants in Main
City.
Gather Info DC 18 to find the
armorer he is speaking of. Or
Perception DC 20.
***
"Very well," said Sol Hawk, "We will need seven passes in all for myself and my friends. In the meantime, I may need to purchase a
pair of leather gloves and boots - concerning the kind of snakes I deal with, antitoxin may not be enough. If you could be so kind as
to direct us to the nearest armourer, we can meet you back later if you need some time to prepare the required documents."
Sol Hawk grinned to himself when he considered a fictional scene where he and Sir Victor tugged the full-sized Sand Drake into the
Third City for the competition. If they were seekig a win in the games, they would have no better chance.
***
"It will take no time," he said.
The shopkeeper wrote out the appropriate documents in a couple of minutes and pulled off all but one tab at the bottom of them.
"Any time you enter Third City, they take a tab from the document. When there are no more tabs, the paper is worthless."
He had to think a moment about where an armorer could be found. "Those who deal in armor are rare in the city. As a rule,
Vassagonians see those who wear armor as cowardly--having to hide behind a second skin of metal or hide instead of fighting
honorably."
He eventually shrugged. "I think that there is one on Manoush Street, further south of of here. But I am not certain."
***
Sol Hawk thanked the man and accepted the documents. So far so good. The group's entry into the third city could be uneventful.
Sol moved through the streets of Teph, wary for any who might mean them ill. His powers of Sixth Sense had grown of late and
people to Sol Hawk were becoming as open books. It was not long, however, before he and Sir Victor were able to locate the shop
that the Vassan Snakehusband had spoken of.
Perception: 25
***
The store, Brock's Armor Repair, would have been rather difficult to find without directions. There was no sign on the outside to
distinguish it from any of the other buildings--just a painted plaque with the name propped in the window.
The Kai opened the door and saw the owner, a Slovian man, cast him a nervous glance. The person Brock was talking to--a finely
dressed Vassagonian--leaned back from across the counter and shot the two newcomers a look with undisguised irritation and
contempt.
He looked at Brock again and sighed, turning slowly to leave.
***
Seeing that he and Sir Victor had just made an untimely entrance, Sol Hawk said nothing, giving both of the other men some space.
Of course, this did not stop him from perusing the items on display. He searched for the Leather Armour he had been seeking, and
found several choices. A vest of superior quality would be quite a find, indeed - and Sol Hawk was hopeful that it would be possible
to find such an item here in Teph.
***
"Good thinking about the antivenom, Sol, " said the knight as he paid for their items. If they needed more documents to enter Third
City, they knew where to go to acquire them.
Paid 140 + 175 GC.
Sir Victor was glad for his companion's sense of direction, and they promptly located the unassuming armourer.
Inside, the knight's gaze swept over the wares on display, approving of the quality offered, as the officer left, and he wondered at
his antipathy towards them. Maybe they'd get into trouble in this city yet.
To make it a bit shorter and
sweeter, you tell me what you
want, I'll tell you the cost.
***
"Whether the gods sent you, or not--your timing was beneficial," said the shopkeeper. He mopped his brow with a tattered rag and
took a deep breath. "I do hope you find something here you need. I'd be willing to cut a deal on most anything."
***
Sure, can do short and sweet.
OOC: Looking for Superior
Leather Armour.
Sol had smiled at Sir Victor's comment. More than once they had run into enemies who used poison, and Sol Hawk realized that in
the arid desert region, poison derived from snake venom would be the most common kind. For a fleeting moment, Sol Hawk had
considered the possibility of purchasing a deadly poison for their use as well - Egoliath and his men would be no pushovers - yet Sol
Rules, Rulings
felt, as he was sure Sir Victor did also, that such would not have been the
honourable way. Something in him was beginning to regret the violence he and the
others had had to visit upon their enemies in pursuit of the Princess. So senseless.
Yet the options were merely two - to do something or to do nothing. As a Kai
Master now, Sol Hawk knew that there was in truth no choice.
Sol Hawk responded to the shopkeep, using an accent to match. "I can see that he
was giving you a difficult time, and I would say it was unfounded. The notion that
armour is the coward's way is not just unfair but untrue. If anything, I'd say those
in armour spend more than their share on the front line."
Sol Hawk came upon the finest set of leather armour he had ever seen. As he tried
it on, it amazingly was a perfect fit as well. The prejudices of Teph had obviously
played a part in its tayloring, for not only was the armour flexible and strong, but
it also resembled ordinary attire to a fair degree. In other words, it wouldn't look
like armour to the common passerby - functional and discreet.
"How much for this?" said Sol Hawk.
***
The Slovian knew that Sol Hawk wanted the armor, and he knew that he had to
make some sales. The tag on the suit read 350 GC, but the man was desperate.
"Two-fifty," he said. "A true bargain, to be sure."
***
Sol Hawk put his hands on his hips and twisted at the waist, admiring the fine
craftsmanship and his new look.
"I agree it is a fine bargain. I think we'll be taking it," he said, then looking at Sir
Victor expectantly, he said, "Can't we?"
***
Business finished, or is Sol Hawk looking to spend more of SV's gold?
Finished! Let's say that SV and I head back to the inn. Also - how much does
the Superior Leather weigh? I may have to make some hard choices regarding my
carrying capacity pretty soon!
Okay, if SV has nothing to input, consider this scene closed. You can start
posting back in the main thread now.
How much does the armour weigh?
How did al-Ak get in here? Pesky Vassagonians....
The weight is the standard listed in the rulebook. Can't remember at the moment.
"But of course. Nothing but the best for a..."the knight held his tongue. He was
about to say Kai Master, but in front of this foreign merchant? The walls had ears
in Vassagonia, and if they hoped to achieve their mission undercover, they'd better
be wiser than this. "...true friend," he finished as he smiled at Sol.
Since his own armour had been custom-made for him and, short of full plate
armour, was the best protection he could wear, the Ruanese knight didn't buy
anything for himself and paid the armourer with 25 thrones.
***
Sol Hawk grinned knowingly at Sir Victor's comment. They had had excellent
success in their endeavors - they had gained some protection against the enemy's
deadliest arrows, they had found a way into the third city, and Sol Hawk had
discovered a way to improve his heartiness in battle which he hoped would be to
the overall benefit of the group as well. If Egoliath's men were as tough as the
elites in the desert, Sol Hawk knew that they would need all the help they could
get.
It wouldn't be long before sunset. It was time to return to the meeting place and
see if the others had fared as well. Somehow, even in the den of lions, Sol Hawk's
opinion of their chances was heightened with new optimism as he paced along the
road alongside the much larger knight.
***
"Let's head back to the inn and catch up with the others, unless you have other
needs for coins?" asked the knight playfully as he exited the store.
***
Sol wrote:
How much does the armour weigh?
15 pounds.
You know what? I completely forgot I wasn't wearing my armour in Teph.
Maybe Sol's old leather armour could fit me - awkwardly?
Not a chance. Your arms are as big around as his calves.
Ah, alas, I "lost" my old Leather Armour - ditched it upon picking up the
Underleathers. Silly me. When KL said that Underleathers are MEANT to be worn
under Leather (imagine that) I realized it was time to remedy the situation ASAP.
KaiLord wrote:
Not a chance. Your arms are as big around as his calves.
But only my tailor knows for sure ;P
Rules, Rulings
Not too sure if I
should be in disguise when
asking the people here, if
that'll help convince them I'm
one of them. So I just rolled
Perception and Gather
Information. What's the local
language again?
Perception roll : 23
Gather Information : 21
@HE: Yes, being in
disguise would be good. The
people you tried to speak to
either don't want anything to
do with an outlander, or they
are too busy (and too hot) to
be bothered. You've got
Camo V, right? If so, you
could look like a native
Tephani with no difficulties.
There are about 4 ways I can
think of for you to enter Third
City.
@Kor: It would not be wrong
to show him the document.
It's not Keron-related in any
way. I'll send you the body of
it in PM just in case.
Act VI, Scene XI – Secrets
Hawkeye was waiting by the door for quite some time when he began to get restless. He tried to be as casual as he could so as not to
attract any unwanted attention. Sooner or later, some of the local guards will bound to happen by the place they're at right now. "What
is it that is so important and secretive that even a Kai Lord is forbid to enter?" Hawkeye muttered to himself. "He definitely has a good
reason for this, he'd better be." Hawkeye continued observing the people passing by, as well as his surroundings, to get more
familiarised with the area and its denizens. He also tried asking some passer-by for some info about Teph.
Just as he was done asking and looking around, he saw Korlaeth walked out of the door. "So did you meet who you wanted to meet just
now? What have you learnt?"
***
Korlaeth looked up at Hawkeye from the paper he was examining.
"We have a friend in the third city. Unfortunately, only one of us can enter 'legally'," Korlaeth dropped the paper to his side. "Any
ideas?"
***
"Would you mind if I read that message you're holding? What do you mean only one of us can enter 'legally'? This just gets more
interesting by the minute." Hawkeye paused for a moment, "Lets go to this third city and you should exlain on the way."
Hawkeye looked around to see if they were being watched and then looked at Korlaeth with a dismayed look.
***
Korlaeth nodded and began moving down the street in the general direction of the nearest gate to Third City. He handed the document
to Hawkeye, lost in thought.
The bearer of this document has been granted proper privileges by way of:
profession
to enter the Third City. Rights are granted specifically for Guilding Areas and their residence zones.
If this document was granted by cost, the number of tags left at the bottom denote the number of remaining entries into the Third City.
This document does not grant privileges under any circumstances to enter Second City.
As Hawkeye read the pass, Korlaeth's eyes suddenly came into focus and he looked at Hawkeye, "I've heard tale of the legendary skills
of the Kai lords at remaining unseen."
The gate to Third City came into view and Korlaeth pointed to it, "Are they legendary enough to pass thorugh there unseen?"
Perception roll to
search for that spot or point
of entry is 24. If it is
succesful, Hawkeye will sneak
in stealthily and wait for
Korlaeth on the other side.
This may require a stealth
check. If fail, he will continue
observing and consider a
disguise, somehow.
Hawkeye wrote:
Perception roll to search
for that spot or point of
entry is 24.
Actually it's 29, according to
your roll.
***
"I've heard tale of the legendary skills of the Kai lords at remaining unseen. Are they legendary enough to pass through there unseen?"
Hawkeye returned the message to Korlaeth and only smiled while surveying the gate area, looking for a spot where he can sneak in
without detection. Once he has found it, he make his way and do what he does best.
"Watch."
***
Hawkeye and Korlaeth moved to the wall that separated the two cities. Hawkeye searched the wall for any spot that could be
penetrated--there was none. So he opted for a different approach. A cart of barrels and casks of different sizes was being towed along
behind a team of weary horses. The Kai ambled near the wagon with Korlaeth, making idle conversation while the guards inspected the
kegs. Then when the guard turned to walk back to his station, the Kai seemed to drop straight into the earth!
All Korlaeth saw was a small spray of sand from the Kai's quick duck-and-roll underneath the wagon. Once underneath, Hawkeye waited
and listened. At the sound of the reins snapping on the horses, the Kai braced his hands and feet on the axle supports, forming a
human X.
Korlaeth could not suppress a smile as the cart rolled into Third City and the guards stopped the next traveller to ask for his documents.
Absorbed in their task, they never saw the figure drop to the sand and roll off the path into the shadows.
***
Korlaeth presented his papers to the guards as he passed through the gate. He stepped through and merged seamlessly with the crowd,
heading with purpose to his destination. He expected Hawkeye would again be with him shortly.
***
"Hello," said Hawkeye, smiling widely as he stepped from between two buildings to rejoin Korlaeth.
The two of them soon found the Guilding Hall for Potters and walked up the steps to enter. A woman approached from the inside and
intercepted them, saying they could not enter. Korlaeth showed his papers, and she nodded and stepped aside with a slight smile.
Inside the modest building were earthenware containers that were anything but modest. Large tall vases of glazed ceramic and
porcelain sat on display on pedestals and platforms. Shelves housed all manner of decorative plates and small urns. Several rooms
bordered this central room, and in each of them (the ones with open doors), crafters perfected their trade at no cost, under expert
guidance.
In one room, Korlaeth thought he saw his contact.
***
Korlaeth looked around in interest at the many skills on display here. As his gaze drifted casually around the room, he thought he saw
his contact ahead.
"Keep an eye out for any trouble, would you, Hawkeye?" Korlaeth asked as he started across the hall, "Shout if anything happens."
***
Satha looked up from his instruction at Korlaeth. Stoic as ever when surprised, the "potter" excused himself from his student and
reached out a warm hand to Korlaeth.
"Ah, my friend! How was the journey from Ferufezan? I hope you have managed to bring a hundred pounds of dye this time instead of
eighty-five."
They entered a small room that served as an office, and Satha shut the door.
"Can't be good if I'm seeing you again," he said seriously once they were secured.
Rules, Rulings
"Not again.", thought Hawkeye. He began to regret volunteering to follow Korlaeth. But it's too late
now, he's in and if Korlaeth's contacts will only see him alone, so be it. But if he is asked to wait outside
some building or room again, it'll be too soon.
"Keep an eye out for any trouble, would you, Hawkeye?" Korlaeth asked as he started across the hall,
"Shout if anything happens."
Hawkeye began to wander around the Hall outside of the room Korlaeth entered. He would not go far,
but he wouldn't want to just stand there, for fear of attracting prowling eyes. He looked at the many
things on display there, at the same time keeping an eye out for the first sign of trouble.
***
"Let me explain. No, there is too much. Let me sum up."
Korlaeth smiled tightly at Satha and got straight to the point. "You may have heard of the kidnapping of
President Kubudei's daughter, Princess Ameesha, and that she's a seer and is now in the custody, as far
as I can tell, of an Egoliah. As if that weren't bad enough, Anari's army and the Cloaesian Talons were
recently entrapped by a Vassagonian army that could only have been fielded by at least three warlords.
I'm sure I don't need to mention the danger an expanded Vassagonia could present to home."
Korlaeth's smile turned wry then as he gazed at his fellow knight, "Oh, and I've found Arcadian."
***
Satha listened without comment until Korlaeth mentioned Arcadian. Then he scowled, trying his best to
ignore that last remark. "Best that only you know where he is, then. You were always the lenient one."
The Keron infiltrator shrugged. "I have never heard of this Egoliah you speak of. It is likely he uses that
name in his own circles alone. There are many people in Teph who want to remain unseen or unfound.
If this man has the woman you seek, you are going to be doing remarkably well to even hear of him, let
alone find him in a city of thousands.
"I'm going to let you in on some privilged information, since we are both Keron. I have a contact here in
Third City who is a member of the Bowyer Guild. His name is al-Akra'min, and he used to be a
Sharnazim Officer until he lost one of his eyes. He makes bows finer that those in our homeland-seriously," he said, seeing Korlaeth's dubious look.
"He has connections because of his former rank. And that allows him access to Second City--something
not too common for a guildsman. I can arrange for him to meet with you if you like. I'll speak with him
this evening and have him come to where you're staying for dinner."
Satha sighed, debating whether or not to proceed. "I've known him for almost two years now, and I've
gotten very close to him. He has proven himself trustworthy, even coming to my aid whenever the local
Sharnazim would get too close to discovering my ethnicity. He never will tell me why he helps me,
though.
"He knows I am a Vakeros, and he has no love for the current political climate of his homeland. If
anyone would know of this Egoliah you speak of, it's him."
***
Korlaeth hesitated in turn, at first unwilling to risk this friendship that Satha obviously valued so highly,
but something told him it would turn out to be necessary, and no matter what he did, he couldn't shake
the feeling.
"I would be pleased if you would arrange such a meeting. My friend outside is a Kai lord, and it would be
ideal if he could accompany me to this meeting. However, I know the rules, and if it must be
otherwise..."
***
Satha shook his head. "No, by all means, the Kai can go as well. Further up to the northwest you'll find
the Bowyer Guild. If he is not there, he's in his shop in Main City. Tell him I sent you, and that you
make blue pottery as well."
Korlaeth rejoined Hawkeye after a quick farewell and thanks to his Keron friend. The Kai was actually
glad he could tag along on this trip instead of waiting outside like some type of pack animal.
The Vakeros entered the guild, looking at the fine arrows on display in the main hallway. A person
walked up to him and asked what business he had here. He replied that he had been sent by another
guild to inquire something of al-Akra'min.
"Wait here."
Introducing:
al-Akra'min
(NPC)
al-Akra’min
Member of the Bowyer
Guild and contact of
Satha’s, al-Akra’min is
a man who is not
satisfied with the
current political climate
of the region. Korlaeth
and Hawkeye seek him
in hopes of learning
Egoliah’s whereabouts.
The person turned and went up a set of steps, and Hawkeye and Korlaeth were left to themselves for a
few minutes.
***
Korlaeth and Hawkeye said very little in the time they were left alone. Soon, a small man dressed in
loose wrapped attire walked down the steps and turned to face them. His etched face had seen many
years of hardship, and the unkempt eyebrows and pointed goatee only added to the harsh appearance.
His right eye was covered with a patch, and a slight scar was visible from underneath the edge on his
cheek.
He regarded the two with his cold singular stare, then spoke in Vassan.
"Hastar tells me you were sent to find me by another guildsman. Who do you represent, and why is my
work disturbed?"
***
Korlaeth bowed respectfully and responded in the same tongue, with just a hint of the south in his
speech, "I beg pardon, master, for disturbing your work. Master Satha has sent me in regards to his
blue pottery you seem fond of."
***
"Ah," said al-Akra'min in understanding, stroking his whiskers. "You make blue pottery as well."
Rules, Rulings
Commentary
Korlaeth nodded. "The secret of making blue pottery is not for common folk to know. We must
discuss this privately in my quarters. Both of you may follow me."
He led the way back up the steps to a small room with many bows in various stages of
assembly. Crossbow stocks were laid all about as well, in addition to wood and feathers for
arrows. The Vassan shut the door behind them, then walked to his workbench, where he was
busy adjusting the tension on a bowstock in order to string it.
"I know that you are Vakeros. And I am guessing your friend is a Kai. Keron usually don't work
in conjunction with other Vakeros. Before we discuss why Satha has sent you, allow me to
inquire of events outside Teph.
"I have friends in Chahdan whom I have not been able to visit in some time. Tell me, do you
come by that route? And if so, what is the city like these days?"
He did not look up, instead focusing on looping the bowstring over one end of the stock.
***
"When I left, they were under martial law, mostly due to the visit of President Kubudei of
Anari." Korlaeth began, then paused in reflection and remembered pain, "There was a great
battle fought between there and here, involving your land, Anari, and the Talons of Rashuur."
***
Gather Info: 14
Sense Motive : 12
@HE: The man seems aloof
to the both of you, as if your class
means nothing to him. He is
certainly not impressed. You also
feel as he talks that he is good at
getting information, and he seems
to--by his very behavior--gained the
dominant hand in the conversation
already. You can also sense that the
outward appearance mirrors the
inside. He is a hard man, strongspirited and composed.
As for his motives, they seem
innocent enough, but a person with
such a personality as he has can
hide such things--that is very
evident. Still, he seems to be merely
gathering info in trade for what he
can offer in the way of information.
Sort of an informal this-for-that
situation at the moment.
Sense Motive check of 12. If I
get any bad vibes, I'll stop what I'm
saying and reconsider.
You sense much of the same
as Hawkeye. He is probing,
searching for something to go off of.
Based on his comments about
politics and rhetoric, you believe he
may be ambivalent (or at least not
polarized) toward the current
international situation. He is
cautious not to reveal too much,
however.
The bow is a mastercrafted
composite short bow. In addition to
the craftsmanship bonus, it can
transfer up to +2 points of damage
from Strength into a succesful hit.
That being the case, it require at
least a +1 bonus to pull back.
Just waiting on one (possibly) final
post from Korlaeth. Then I'll either
close this one or keep it going,
depending on the post.
Okay, start back in the main thread
now.
Hawkeye didn't want to interrupt Korlaeth and decided that it's best to let him handle the
conversation. Hawkeye studied the man in front of him, his features, the way he spoke and
act, as much as he could learn, keeping all the details at the back of his head. He also tried to
discern what he could of the man's nature.
***
"A battle has taken place, you say? This would fit with what my Cloeasian suppliers have told
me. Do not act surprised that I have friends among that nation: trade and commerce are much
more forgiving than politics and rhetoric. In fact, it is because of trade that Cloeasia had
Rashuur's line to begin with."
He grunted and managed to string the bow at last. Easing his hands away, he began to turn
the cranks that would release the pressure upon the bowstock. "Word from the Sharnazim
lords in Second City is that regional Overlords led this army. That is why some are absent from
this month's Lord's Council in Second City."
He stopped and looked down at his hands. "I hope that my friends in Chahdan are well. The
sands have changed since we last spoke."
"So," he said, taking a breath and breaking instantly out of his ever-so-slight somber mood,
"why does Satha send you to me? It could only be for one of two things."
***
Korlaeth glanced at Hawkeye, hesitating for a moment as he seemed to remember that
interests here may conflict, despite Al'Akramin's friendship with the Vakeros agents in Teph.
"We're looking for Kubudei's daughter. We believe she is in the custody of a man named
Egoliah."
***
al-Akra'min breathed in slowly and sighed at Korlaeth's comment. He blinked a couple of
times, then fixed his one good eye on Korlaeth. "Then it is information you seek. You wish to
know the location of either Egoliah or the daughter, possibly hoping that where you find one,
you'll find the other."
He took the bow he had just made from the crafting vice and tested it, pulling the string taut
next to his ear and releasing it with a soft twang. "It will take time to get this information,
even for me. Give me twenty-four hours. Tell me the inn where you are staying, and I will
come there and await you when I have learned all I can."
He smiled--possibly a rare gesture, considering the lines etched on his face by years of
scowling. It did little to warm his features, however. "Fear not. I will be discrete. Take this as a
sign of goodwill between us." He handed Korlaeth the bow and leaned close.
"It would not be wise for the two of you to seek this man alone, if he is who I think he is."
***
"It would not be wise for the two of you to seek this man alone, if he is who I think he is."
Hawkeye simply nodded in agreement and watched as the man handed over the bow to
Korlaeth. A masterful piece of craftsmanship. Hawkeye stood up slowly, and bowed slightly to
the one-eyed man. "We will be waiting news from you. Till then, I bid you a good day."
Hawkeye acknowledged the gesture and waited for Korlaeth.
***
"The Green Oasis," Korlaeth answered Al-akra'min's question and bowed in thanks at the
princely gift. "An honor to work with you, and thank you."
Korlaeth pulled at the bow, testing it as they left the craftsman's building. With effort, he could
just draw the bow to full, but it would not serve him well in a fight. He passed it to Hawkeye,
"A princely gift, but I'm afraid I cannot draw it well. It's yours, if you like, for accompanying
me."
***
The two departed from al-Akra'min, who was already preparing for his journey into Second
City to get information by closing down his shop for the night. The duo left Third City right at
dark, and the guards on duty paid them no mind--exiting was not as heavily scrutinized as
entering.
They noticed as they walked that many shops were closing down by shuttering windows or
letting others know that they were still in business by lighting lanterns outside their doors.
Korlaeth and Hawkeye happened to arrive at the exact same time as Simyn and Valestar.
Vassagonian
Language
The Sands
Have
Changed
"The sands
have changed"
is an
expression
which means
'things are
different'.
Rules,
Rulings
Act VIa, Conclusion – Flying Near the Web
Arcadian closed his eyes and tried to sleep but for some reason the patron goddess did not award the Vakeros such a luxury. It seemed to the
knight that he had not gotten a decent night's sleep since had arrived at The Darkening Days fairgrounds.
Where was Kamilah now? Arcadian wondered if perhaps she had returned to Araluen. Arcadian knew that if she had instead made her way north to
Elzian that he would not have much time left. Once his secret was out the Vakeros Commanders would petition a warrent. The high council would
approve the warrent and Arcadian would be arrested, trialed, and be hanged at the first light of dawn.
All men fall... thought Arcadian to himself as he drifted off into a troubled sleep.
***
Arcadian paced about, wishing he could get some sleep in case they slept in shifts tonight. Though the rooms were well-secured (as inns go), he
was hoping to get all the rest he could. He laid back on the bed and closed his eyes yet again.
Almost asleep...
Almost....
The bane to all who teeter on the edge of sleep suddenly came--the feeling like the bed suddenly flipped or shifted. Arcadian jerked reflexively to
this perceived motion, and a rush of visions assailed him:
An overturned mug of ale mingling with spilled blood.
A solitary eye staring at him.
An emerald falling down a long staircase.
The number two.
An eagle's claw stretching out in front of him like he was the bird's prey.
A golden ring.
A black-vaned arrow whizzing through the air.
A maroon axe crashing into a cobalt-blue shield, splitting it like chord-wood.
And then the Vakeros toppled from the bed, landing on the floor in a cold sweat. Why him!? Why was he having these visions!? He froze in place,
holding his breath.
Someone had been walking down the hallway and stopped outside his door.
No one knows this.
---------Egoliah waited until the people Kavan had introduced had been instructed and paid and left to do their task.
"Master, I must ask...why are we using bounty hunters and mercenaries instead of our own resources?"
Egoliah looked up at him from where he sat. "Distractions. Ruses. Mirages. This is how we work. If we find out they are in town--I will mobilize
everything in my power to move against them."
He smiled. "Perhaps we can... Yes." He laughed evilly.
"Bring me the psychomancer and my brother's body. Let's find out what the last thing he saw before death was."
***
Perception Check if
necessary – 20
Arcadian moved his hand down to where his blue-steel shortsword was hidden beneath his newly aquired desert cloak. Murdach's scimitar was still
in clear view as the Vakeros made his way to the door of his room, sensing that someone had stopped outside.
Cade placed his right hand on the scimitar's hilt and then slowly opened the door to the room with his left, prepared for anything that might come
his way.
***
The Vakeros had just enough time to see the door across from his room slowly ease shut. The hallway was vacant, filled only with the distancemuffled sounds of the dining room below them. Whoever had entered the room across from him began talking to someone.
Was he becoming paranoid? Had this person heard him advancing across his own room and retreated to their own? Was it merely someone who
had stopped at their room and he assumed it was outside his?
You can use
my previous
Perception or I can
roll again. No
matter.
***
Ever so slowly Arcadian released his white-knuckled grip on the fancy hilt of the magical weapon that he referred to only as Murdach's Blade. After
one more look down each hallway Arcadian slowly shut the door to his room, and didn't move.
He listened quietly at the door, waiting for perhaps the door across from his to open...
***
Used it
already. No need
for another
though--you'll see.
Waiting game--I
want to see what
you do (if
anything) before I
post any more.
The Vakeros sighed and closed his eyes so he could focus on hearing. After ten minutes, nothing had happened. Arcadian pressed his ear to the
door and waited longer, though the odd angle he was having to stand at pained his back and neck.
There was a muffled click and the sound of a door opening. Two people were talking still. The boards beneath Arcadian's feet gave a slight
vibration and creaked, as if someone were standing in the hallway now. Whether they were at his door or not, he could not tell.
***
Arcadian's curiousity got the better of him. He could still hear the two unidentified individuals conversing, and then he heard the ominous click of a
door opening.
The Vakeros reopened his own door, to see what lay upon the other side, if anything.
***
The opening of the door interrupted the two people talking. The man in the hallway, dressed in Sharnazim attire, looked at Arcadian and then back
at the woman he was speaking with. He nodded and turned to leave.
The woman reached out to keep Arcadian from closing his door. "We must speak alone!"
She pushed her way inside past Arcadian, who noticed she looked about nervously as she stood in the room waiting for him to close the door. He
did so, and she spoke rapidly and in hushed tones.
"The man I spoke with wants you to know first that not all Sharnazim are corrupted. Some live by older and nobler codes than others. The men
you met at the gate earlier, however, do not live by such codes. They sent you here so that they would know where you were spending the night.
They have friends who are robbers.
"Be warned and beware."
Rules,
Rulings
Arcadian nodded curtly as the woman spoke. So. The sharnazim were planning on raiding the inn in the middle of the night to steal their lives and
their gold. Cade wished he had seen it coming.
"I thank you lady, for your honesty. Pray tell, what is your name? And how come you to be mixed in all of this?"
***
"My name is not important. In fact, for my own safety, I cannot give it to you. I help you only because there are groups of us in Teph that look out
for outsiders--but we can't help them all. The city is filled with foreigners, and so they are easy prey for the local thieves.
"You have a choice. You can either flee, or you can stand and teach these dogs a lesson. No Sharnazim would be found stooping to stealing, but
they'll send their lackeys to do it for them in exchange for turning a blind eye to the thieves' regular jobs.
"The owners of these inns are threatened by the corrupted Sharnazim to keep quiet and let this happen. Everyone else that we discover and tell
this to flees, and so the crimes continue. If a group should make a stand against them, perhaps the incident will help bolster other travelers to
take action, and help other innkeepers to stand up to the guards."
***
Arcadian paused thoughtfully. He knew that his main quest had carried him here to Teph, and it was possibly one of the last places on Magnamund
that the Vakeros Knight wanted to be. His instincts told him that he should avoid all trouble in this place, as it would bring unwarrented attention
that could prove devistating to their cause. But on the other hand Cade was a Vakeros - an avatar of light against corruption wherever it spawned.
"Thank you for the warning, m'lady. My companions are gone, but I shall stay here and lie in wait for any who would wish us harm. I did not come
to Teph to liberate the oppressed from the corruption that exists here."
Sense Motive roll
was only 13 so
Arcadian won't
question this
woman on
Ameesha, at least
not as of yet. He
isn't sure that he
can trust her
despite her help.
You sense no
veiled meanings or
threats, nor do you
sense any ill will or
bluffing on her
part. She seems
genuine.
Arcadian hesitated, "however, I shall do my best while I am here. I cannot speak of my quest to you, though I am in dire need of information. My
heart tells me to trust you but my instincts won't allow me to do so."
The Vakeros Knight remembered all to well how he had been lured into Murdach's confidence and was then betrayed by the man. Arcadian had
only recently took vengeance upon Murdach - but the memory of Cade's trusting nature becoming a dissadvantage was still too fresh to trust a
stranger.
"I shall do what I can. Seek me out of there is anything I can do."
***
Arcadian did not want to be direct about his quest, and so he tried a more subtle approach to asking his questions. This nameless woman could
prove to be a great help or a mortal hindrance, only time and the gods could tell.
"Has anything strange happened in Teph as of lately? Anything out of the ordinary even for the corruption that already exists?"
Cade was becoming nervious. The bandits that this woman spoke of could attack at any moment though Arcadian suspected that they would wait
until nightfall.
***
"No, nothing that we've monitored. Although we are stretched very thin."
She sensed a sadness mixed with a longing in Arcadian. Her intuition kicked in and she launched into a question. "You're looking for someone,
aren't you? That is why you hesitate to help."
***
Right then and there Arcadian almost spilled on his mission. But the memory of Murdach kept his mouth quiet. The Vakeros Knight knew that
secrecy was important and he did not want to endanger his companions again.
"I am sorry, but I cannot speak of it. Not yet. If you learn anything than seek me out."
***
"Very well," the woman said in return. "I must leave now. I am not as strong as you, and so must resort to movement and stealth to avoid
detection. Whatever your decision, remember that not all of Vassagonia is evil." She gave him a faint warm smile, as of a mother trying to be
strong and happy for a son she'd likely never see again.
Then, shutting the door to her room, she hurried down the hallway without a sound, leaving Arcadian alone. He shut the door and locked it,
checking the angle of the sun outside his window. Soon it would be dusk.
Still no sign of the others....
***
Arcadian moved a chair that stood against the wall of the door into the center of the room, turned it around, and sat down facing the door. The
others had not yet returned, but Arcadian did not really care. The Vakeros was dying for a true fight, but slaying a few paid-off bandits would
satisfy him for now.
Though he knew things would be much better for him if the others returned be for this supposed attack Arcadian secretly hoped that they
wouldn't. The good side of him hated this slinking around. He wanted his enemies to know exactly where he was - and to come to him.
Arcadian took the khanjar from his backpack and slid the thin blade up his sleeve for easy access. He drew Murdach's scimitar and placed it on his
lap, where he could get to it easily. The Vakeros Knight knew that if things got desperate all it would take is a quick flick of his cloak and he would
have a blue-steel blade in his hand.
He began to wish that he had taken the time to purchase a set of simple leather armor beforehand. He would have to face whatever came through
that door with nothing put his clothing and a long cloak to protect him.
***
At just about that time, Arcadian heard voices and the sound of footsteps from the hall outside. And then, then, the doorknob began to turn...
***
The door opened slowly and Arcadian was up in an instant. Murdach's scimitar swung through the air and stopped nearly a hair's breath away from
Sol Hawk's neck.
As soon as the Vakeros realized who it was he twirled the scimitar away expertly and greated his old friend.
"Welcome, Kai brother." Sir Victor entered the room behind Sol.
Arcadian explained about his meeting with the woman, including all the details of the corrupt Sharnazim and the possible attack upon them.
Rules
Commentary
Introducing:
The blade came deadly-close to Sol Hawk's throat and yet Sol Hawk
continued to react with calm. He had somehow realized what Arcadian would
do, and also knew that he was in no danger. "I greet you, my friend," he said
in response to Cade, realizing that something serious was soon to come what else would put the Vakeros on his guard so?
Sol Hawk sat cross-legged as Arcadian told his tale, and Sol Hawk listened
with interest. Arcadian clearly wanted a fight - and although Sol Hawk was
beginning to have his fill of combat, it was very good to see the intense
determination, that passionate spark return to Arcadian's eyes. His brother
had been disinterested in nearly everything for so long, and Sol Hawk knew
that it had to do with Kamilah. How strange that here in this deadly city,
Cade might have a chance to rediscover himself and his purpose.
When Cade had finished, Sol Hawk considered his first thought - that they
should be far away from this place when the Sharnazim-turned-bandits
arrived. "But those in search of gold would not merely leave in peace without
the prize they hunger for," said Sol Hawk, "For even if we are absent, they
will extract their payment from innocents rather than go away emptyhanded. The blood would be on our hands," he said. "and that we can not
allow."
***
Summer &
Autumn
(NPCs)
Summer
Hot Chick
Twins returning
from a mission in
Kalte: Summer is
extroverted and
Autumn is
introverted.
Uncommonly
powerful fighters
both, these women
meet with our
adventurers at The
Green Oasis in
Teph.
Autumn
Cold Chick
By a half hour after sunset, everyone had arrived back at The Green Oasis.
Taking a table off to one side in the main dining room, the seven gathered
together and talked about their next course of actions over a hot meal. One
thing they had to admit--Vassagonians knew how to prepare food.
They were getting spoiled with having a selection to choose from for supper
each night. Tonight it was either boar ribs in spiced sauce with roasted
vegetables or beef tips in gravy with smashed potatoes and corn. A huge dish
of rolls were placed in the center of the table, along with small cups of
dipping sauces for them. The selection of drinks ranged from fruit juices to
teas to dark ale. And it was all included in the price of the room....
Midway through the meal, the all-male group happened to notice two women
enter the inn, obviously Northlanders from their features. They turned the
heads of more than one man as they walked across to the bar. One of them
was blonde, wearing metal-fringed black leather armor and a deep maroon
traveling cape. She looked over the room with a sense of confidence, knowing
she was being looked at in return.
Her companion was thinner, paler, and had dark black hair. She was a bit
more reserved, paying more attention to the innkeeper than to the room's
occupants. Though she wore simple brown traveling robes, it was evident to
trained eyes that she had some sort of light armor on underneath them.
"A drive in RAID Array 1 is failing. Back up any necessary data now."
plink "All 280 gigs of data on the 320 gig striped array is now toast,
probably due to one critical flipped bit. Thank you for choosing Sony."
Okay, so it didn't say that last part, but there was nothing wrong with
the drive--just something that got written wrong that caused the OS
to not even boot. It would show a BSOD for maybe a half second, then
auto-reboot, ad infinitum. Ugh. Wouldn't be so bad if the RAID hadn't
failed twice in a year now.
Back to the two chicks:
The innkeeper himself moved to find them a table, acting a bit too attentive
to their needs. It was obvious what he was trying (in vain) to accomplish. The
dark-haired one merely ignored him, while the light-haired one seemed to
sop up the attention. Within moments, they were both eating gravy-covered
potatoes and tearing apart a bread loaf that was set before them.
***
While they were sitting at the table Arcadian spoke in a hushed voice
regarding the woman who had visited him at the roome earlier. After he
relayed the conversation the Vakeros began to express his personal concerns
on the matter.
"We don't know if we can trust this woman, so I told her naught of our
purpose nor our mission. I think we call agree after Murdach's traitorous act
that we must take care in who we trust in this land. Either way, I think we
should sleep in shifts tonight."
Arcadian sighed and took a moment to suck the tender, glazed meat off of a
hearty rib before throwing the bone to some nearby dogs. He dug into his
second slab of the ribs that night, enjoying the first good meal that he had
consumed since...well, since Dessi. Since then it had been trail rations and
the occasional tavern stew.
"I'll glady take the longest shift, or stay up the entire night if you need your
rest," volenteered Arcadian, "I slept while you were gone and I feel wide
awake as ever."
Brownie points if you know who both of them are. One is on TV; one is
on the web.
Blonde haired girl looks a bit like Uma Thurman but it is a little difficult
to tell because her hair is covering her face.
The Vakeros considered ordering a pitcher of ale thoughtfully but then
decided against it. When this was all over there would be time ample enough
to drink. But if there was going to be an attack by thugs Arcadian wanted to
have his wits about him. All of them.
Arcadian watched as two women walked in through the tavern door and sat
down. The barkeep rushed to their aid.
Hmm...maybe they are somebody important?
Knowledge
(Geography)
check is 17
to identify
their
homeland(s).
The Vakeros tried not to draw their gaze by returning his immediate focus to
the spicy glazed ribs on the plate before him.
***
"Shifts...yes, indeed..." Korlaeth said around his beef tips and potato mash,
though he was obviously distracted by the two women that had wandered in.
He tried to continue listening in on the conversation, but his curiosity quickly
got the better of him. He stood and ambled in the general direction of the two
women, sitting down at a table near enough to talk to them without
crowding.
"What brings you so far south, miladies?" Korlaeth asks in simple
Vassagonian.
I don't think that's Uma Thurman, although I can't quite put my finger
on her name...the dark haired one I'm clueless about.
Rules,
Rulings
Sol Hawk was pleased at his friend's plan. "Very good, then, we shall take shifts. Cade, if you take the first, I will gladly take the second. Perhaps
those men can be turned from their less-than-honourable aims."
Sol Hawk, too, partook of the delicous meal - it was better, too, than he had ever tasted. As a Kai Lord, he was sworn to abhor gluttony, however, and
ate no more than he needed, although he enjoyed every bite thoroughly.
Good. They'd had their first day in Teph and Egoliath seemed, as of yet, unaware of thir presence.
OOC: Please
add to your
Char Sheet:
antitoxin,
"invitation to
snake
competition"
"Sir Victor and I indeed had some good fortune on our journey," said Sol Hawk, "I have something for each of you." He handed each of the others a
small bottle of liquid and also a written parchment. "Antitoxin," said Sol Hawk, "and also an invitation to a certain event in the Third City. Since we
arrived," he said, somewhat tactfully, "I have looked forward to seeing it. How fared the rest of you today?"
Even as Sol Hawk took a bite of meat, the two women had entered and Korlaeth's easy manner had taken over. Sol Hawk looked on discreetly - were
the women Sommlending? From their garb they could have been trained mercenaries, but who were they? From the way they were eating, Sol Hawk
decided that they'd just arrived in town. He exchanged glances with Valestar, who had also noticed their entry, and shrugged.
***
Over dinner, Valestar talked to Simyn about the potions.
"First I'd like to make a truth potion. The ingredients for this and the process is fairly simple. The most complicated part you can help me with. And it
may proivde some enlightenment on some other things you were curious about as well."
"Then an illusion potion. That will take the hair of one who has recently had a nightmare. That would be myself, though somehow I think I shall not
have any more for a while. Anyways, when mixed at the proper temperature with the right power words, the nightmare will become a lesser
elemental. It cannot sustain itself outside of the potion, but if the vial is broken and the vapors inhaled, it will manifest itself as a terrifying illusion.
Those who breath in the mixture will be struck with a fear so intense, they will not be able to move. A powerful mage, like myself, can control this
illusion somewhat."
"Then a sleeping potion could be helpful as well. Gallowbrush, of course, is the easiest way to make one of these. I'm sure you know something about
Gallowbrush already, I won't bore you with a lesson in herbology, unless you want me to."
"Finally, I wanted to make a few acidic compounds that could burn through steel. But for that I'll need distilled stomache acid. I think we've done
enough searching for today, though, we should get back to the inn. Maybe tommorrow. A fascinating city, this Teph, though it lacks the sophistication
of Dessi."
"Anyways, I was able to pick up a solar focus, and that is good. I'll set it up tommorrow, see if I can put it to any use."
***
The Sommlending knight ordered the boar ribs, and as he helped himself to some fresh rolls, he was reminded of the day he was invited to go hunting
with the Baron of Ruanon. Expertly riding ahead through the brush, he became separated from the rest of the hunters, until he was alone.
Dismounting to check for prints, he heard the baying of the hounds circling back towards him, until suddenly, the huge ravening beast came charging
out of the thicket right towards him! Wasting no time, he pulled his sword out and managed to plunge it straight into the mighty beast's spine. Even
then, it took all of his strength to keep the boar's tusks at bay as it thrashed through its death throes. The hunt soon caught up and contratulated the
knight, for tonight they would be feasting.
Sir Victor nodded at Arcadian's tale, telling him that he did the right thing, and volunteered for a night shift himself, before helping himself to more
rolls. The companions were impressed with his appetite, but then, he needed to feed his bodily mass.
Perception : 24
Gather Info :
18
Also, thanks to
Korlaeth for
the bow. It's a
great gift. But
can someone
explain to me
how that bow
works?
As the two women entered the inn and strode towards the bar, his gaze was immediately drawn towards the blonde one. She looked used to carrying
her weapons and armour and she probably knew how to use them, which was pretty attractive for the knight. He kept eating, yet constantly looked
back up towards her, seeing what she was up to.
***
Hawkeye observed the women from the corner of his eye. He studied their looks, features and behaviours trying to deduce what he could of them,
their origins, their jobs, their characters, who they were in short . Being a master in the arts of disguises and stealth, it was natural for him to always
study a new encounter. "They're definitely somebody. It's not everyday you can see two beautiful ladies walking around unscathed, especially not in a
place like this."
He ate his meal silently, not like the others who were basically, digging into their plates.
***
The bow works
as follows:
You must have
a +1 Strength
bonus to even
draw the
string.
In addition to
the mastercraft
bonus to attack
and damage,
your Strength
bonus is added
to the damage
roll, up to +2.
So, if your Str
is 12 or 13,
you can use
the bow, and
you get a +1
bonus to
damage due to
your strength.
If your Str is
14 or above,
you get a +2
bonus to
damage due to
strength.
Arcadian was surprised. Back at the fairgrounds when Murdach had betrayed them by leading them into a trap Sir Victor has been the first to accuse
Arcadian and place the blame solely upon him. In a way Arcadian did consider himself fully responsible for what had happened. But it seemed that
now Victor had at last forgiven his mistake.
The young Vakeros finished the first half of his slab or ribs and slowly began to work on the second. As he ate he watched Korlaeth as he talked with
the two women. Since their brawl Arcadian had not spoken a single word to the man, even though he was his brethren. His comrade in arms. Arcadian
knew that Korlaeth did not know the full extent of his transgressions, for if he did Korlaeth would have acted much harsher.
Still...Korlaeth knew that something was amiss. Arcadian sighed. Was there anyone that he could trust? Part of him began to wish that Kamilah was
still here by his side. And yet another part of him was glad that she was far away from this infernal mess.
***
Detaching from his group, Korlaeth moved to a vacant table near the two women and tried to strike up a conversation. It was apparent after a few
seconds that the two were quite different in more than just looks.
"Adventure," said the blonde in Vassan, smiling slightly as she looked his direction. Most women would have had to primp for hours to achieve the
girlish beauty she had naturally. "And of course, that has the added bonus of money, which Teph is all too eager to take."
Speaking North Common, the raven-haired woman spoke. "What brings you so far from your table?"
The blonde rolled her eyes playfully, as if this was to be expected and toyed with. "Do you always have to be so rude toward new people?"
"We don't have time, Summer."
"I think we do."
The dark-haired one shrugged and shook her head in exasperation. "Always the same," she mumbled.
Totally ignoring the exchange that just happened, the blonde turned back to Korlaeth. "I make no excuses for my sister. She has always been overly
serious and, um, 'mission-minded'. Never willing to side-track. And while she has an unforgettable stage presence, she is not a conversationist at all."
She dropped the Vassan language and switched over to North Common.
"I am Summer, as you have learned already from my sister, Autumn." She nodded at Korlaeth's face. "Yes, the parents of twins often come up with
creative names."
***
Rules, Rulings
Perception: natural 20 +8 = 28
Commentary
Valestar finally looked up from his meal as Korlaeth went to join the two
girls. "What's he doing?" he asked Simyn incrediously. What was it with
these people and having to talk to everyone that seemed somewhat out
of the ordinairy...
... except now as he watched and listened, he could tell these two were
FAR from ordinairy. Valestar used all his senses to collect more
information about the women.
***
Valestar watched as his countryman began talking to the two women.
The one he could see, the pale dark-haired one, cast Korlaeth a scathing
look after he sat down, then mumbled something and continued eating.
The tanned blonde talked instead to the Vakeros.
His question to Simyn soon became rhetorical, for even if the sage did
reply, Valestar had tuned the answer out. He focused on the two women,
then looked at himself. He envied how clean they were. From the looks of
it, they did not cross the desert to get here...unless they paid well to ride
in a caravan.
Even then, they were too clean. There would be no place to bathe along
the way. The blonde's left hand, the one opposite Korlaeth, reached up
into her hair as she cocked her head sideways, saying something and
laughing slightly. As Korlaeth looked down, her hand slid to her side and
unclipped the guard on her sword.
Kai Lord, is it possiblie to use Force
Barrier on the swords to make them
impossible to draw? I know it's a bit of a
stretch from the book's description, but it
would add some versatility to the spell.
Valestar looked at the raven-haired one for some reason; she was looking
right at him. Rather than look away startled to have been discovered, she
kept the gaze for a second, then looked back at her food. When she
looked up again, it was at Simyn, then back to her food. Methodically she
took in each member of the table, then continued looking all around the
room.
Oh, and I can't use telepathy until I gain
psychic attack, right? Then this will have to
do...
Suddenly she tensed and looked at the blonde, who dropped her right
hand to her sword to unclip its guard, even as her left hand came to rest
on the hilt of her other weapon.
***
Yeah, I'll actually allow it. Though it
is not a "portal" in the sense that the spell
is like the D&D Wizard Lock, the emphasis
of the spell seems to be to keep things from
opening.
I would post what happens next, but since
Korlaeth is in the thick of this, I'll let him at
least post first.
As for telepathy, you are correct. You gain
the ability to use it when you can attack.
Valestar felt a chill as he realized the danger Korlaeth, and by extension
the rest of them, were in. He stood up quickly and suddenly and clapped
his hands together. "Korlaeth!" he called out. "Stop chatting with those
women and come check on Varsuvial with me!" It was a wild chance that
Korlaeth would have any idea of why Valestar was trying to get him away
from the women, but at the same time, he was fairly sure the sudden
movement would distract the girls. And Korlaeth might be surprised
enough to actually listen to him. He tried to tell Korlaeth to come with his
eyes, but he wasn't sure the Vakeros would understand. The girls were
killers, Valestar was sure of it. They must have been followed from
Chahdan.
***
Okay then, as a precaution I'll cast
force barrier on those swords. Does it take
two spells, one for each? And does the spell
really only last a round? 5 willpower a
round... isn't a round like three seconds?
As he silently at he watched Korlaeth mingle with the two men out of the
corner of his eye. Suddenly Valestar the mage called out to the young
Vakoers.
Perception Check - 14
Knowledge (warfare Check - 17
Arcadian decided to look closer at the women. The Vakeros could sense a
tenseness in the magician's voice and it instantly sent Arcadian into a
state of alarm. As he studied the two womens' faces he instinctively
unclasped the scimitar underneath his long cloak, taking back a drink of
cold water while doing so as to throw off suspision.
The Knowledge (warfare) check it to
possibly discern the actions of the two
women. Are they acting offensively?
Defensively? Towards Korlaeth? Valestar?
Someone else in the room?
OOC: Perception: 16
"Korlaeth! Stop chatting with those women and come check on Varsuvial
with me!"
***
The Kai Master took further notice as the raven-haired woman took her
fill of him with her mind. Sol Hawk responded with an easy, benevolent
smile, having finished his meal. As Valestar rose and made a commotion,
Sol Hawk moved not at all, continuing to eat and drink peacefully as a
way to counter by balance this sudden motion. He continued to look on,
however, encouraged to do so by the glances of the dark haired twin, by
association with Korlaeth, and out of a means to realize just what had
caused the Mage's reaction.
***
Korlaeth nodded in understanding at Autumn's apology for her sister. He
opened his mouth to respond when he was interrupted by Valestar's loud
request.
Bluff check of 15 to cover my real
motives and actions. Sense Motive of 25 on
the women, and, if I have time, a Sleight of
Hand of 16 to palm Paru's khanjar.
"...come check on Varsuvial!.." Korlaeth started in his chair and looked at
Valestar in confusion. Valestar's eyes jerked repeatedly toward the door.
While admiringly discreet, his intentions were obvious to Korlaeth's
trained eyes. Something was wrong. Korlaeth tried to indicate with his
eyes that he understood Valestar's concern, but it would be impossible to
know if the message was conveyed. He sighed inwardly that he was the
only one here with Keron training. It would be so easy...
"In a minute! Can't you see I'm busy?" Korlaeth turned back to the
blonde, his concern instantly replaced by friendly interest accompanied by
a casual once over, "It seems we both have friends with little desire to
meet new people, milady. Where do you hail from, if I may ask?"
Korlaeth watched intently from behind his friendly facade, searching for
any indication of the intentions of these women that had Valestar so on
edge.
@Korlaeth: Their accent is hard to pinpoint.
Sommlending maybe. Possibly Durenese. It
is impossible to tell for sure.
@Hawkeye: Summer's armor has no repair
marks on it, nor is it really scuffed. The
weapons she has on each side are short
swords whose leather wrapped handles are
dull compared to the sheen on her armor.
(That is, her weapons have seen much
more action than her armor.) She is always
alert, looking at everyone.
Autumn, on the other hand, is looking at
everything. Her eyes are darting all about
as she eats, and she is taking in as much or
more information as you are about
everyone, especially Korlaeth. His moving
to speak to them has called attention to
himself and to your table, and she is
already looking that direction often, never
making eye contact.
It seems that Summer's good looks draw
everyone's attention, and this allows
Autumn to observe the room. The two are
working together.
But perhaps the most unusual thing you
notice is that their hair is clean and wellgroomed. Teph is remote, and traveling to
it would require days of open desert travel.
@Valestar: You primarily gain the same
insight that Hawkeye did, except for the
weapon info. You do notice that the
blonde's armor looks either unused or
untouched.
More than that, though, you sense that the
two are somehow working together and
communicating silently.
Rules, Rulings
Hawkeye knew that Valestar had realised that something was amissed with the ladies. And that was why he called
out for Korlaeth. Hawkeye had a feeling that perhaps Korlaeth was up to something as well.....
Sense Motive on the two : 24
Oh I love it! All these checks to answer to.
In the order received:
Valestar: Each round is 6 seconds. And I'm going
to bend the rules highly and let you hold both
swords in place with one spell.
Arcadian:
Perception - They have both become skittish for
some reason, especially the dark-haired one.
Know(war) - They are acting defensively, as if they
know something is about to be amiss. Call it
preparations. Neither one seems too concerned
toward Korlaeth.
Sol Hawk: The dark-haired one has reached both
hands behind her neck to fluff her hair out and
look toward the door. The move is a bit odd for her
tense nature, unless it is a habit. You do notice as
Korlaeth leans close to continue talking, he pulls
Paru's dagger out.
Korlaeth:
Bluff - failed due to situation described below
Sense Motive - They are preparing to do
something, but you cannot tell what. Given the
sudden disinterest they show in you (see below),
you can only assume their sudden preoccupation is
toward something else.
Sleight - Done. Only SH saw you, and neither
woman could due to where they are sitting.
Hawkeye: You get the same feeling that Korlaeth
did about why they are acting this way. Something
has drawn their attention toward the door, and
they are readying themselves, even though
nothing has happened yet. No ill intent toward
Korlaeth--he has been given a brush-off.
Perception check at DC35 to see what Autumn is
doing while she squats to the floor.
I don't think Hawkeye got his words out before
things happened, so I didn't respond to that. I
can't make the DC 35 with Perception.
Perception too low. You know, if I'd known
that Magicians of Dessi don't use Concentration, I
wouldn't have put so many ranks into it. Any way
to change that this late in the game? I'll live with it
if I have to, but it was defenitely a tactical error.
Unless someone can suggest some other way to
use concentration?
-5 WP
Failed Perception roll
Hawkeye then stood up casually and walked towards Korlaeth, interrupting him from his conversation. "Excuse me,
my friend, you are needed at our table. It would seem that we are in need of your opinion again.", Hawkeye told
Korlaeth while twitching his mouth in the direction of the two, to warn the Vakeros, turning his face away from the
watching females. Hawkeye then turned towards the two ladies, and nodded at them, looking at them straight in
the eye, dark and brooding, smirking at them, "Forgive my manners, but you have to excuse my friend here.
Perhaps another time, ladies." The young Kai Lord bowed slightly to them and waited for Korlaerth to follow him,
all the while putting his right hand on the hilt of his sword, hidden beneath his cloak.
***
Everything seemed to happen almost at once. Autumn became rigid and looked toward the door as Summer
reached to prepare her weapons. Korlaeth answered Valestar's sudden request, and in the time it took to do that,
Summer ignored him completely, looking toward the door and sliding her chair back a bit. Autumn reached behind
her neck and fluffed her long black hair out, then leaned forward over the table, hunching over her food as she
squinted toward the door.
As Hawkeye crossed the room, Arcadian prepared to draw his own blade, while Sol Hawk, Simyn, and Sir Victor
continued their meals as if they were at another table.
Korlaeth was questioning Summer on where she came from as Hawkeye came to stand beside him.
"Hmm? Oh, Kalte. Hold on," she said, reaching down to adjust the lacing on her boots, yet looking continually
toward the door.
The swinging doors to the common room flew open and a trio of Vassagonians staggered in. One of them sported a
bruised and swollen eye, and he had a trickle of dried blood from his nose wiped across his cheek. The two behind
him appeared to be his henchmen, along to help him out with this. The bruised man twirled a strange weapon,
looking like a cross between a sickle and a scimitar. "There they are! Get them!"
The innkeeper cried out in alarm at this. "NO! Not in my inn! No!"
But it was too late. Too late for the bruised man, that is.
As one, Summer and Autumn stood. From her boot, Summer pulled out and launched a flat dagger. Autumn had
gotten her own dagger from somewhere, and she threw this at the man as well. The instant both daggers hit, the
two underlings behind this man shrieked in pain. One dropped his blade and ran; the other staggered backwards a
bit.
The two daggers served to dissuade the man with the hook-sword. He himself stepped back and looked at the two
women with fear in his eyes. He had bitten off more than he could chew here, even with help.
Autumn sqautted down suddenly, while Summer tried to pull her weapons out--only to find them held firmly in
place. She paused in disbelief as she looked at them. "What the--"
***
Korlaeth was about to respond to Summer as the three Vassagonians burst in and made what appeared to be a
fatal move. The reactions of the two women near him were nothing short of amazing, as the man with the hook
sword paused in his course of action. Korlaeth looked up with apparent mild interest that belied the dagger hidden
in his lap, ready to throw. He spoke to the unwounded man at the door in Vassan.
"Looks like you may want to turn around and head right back where you came from, friend."
***
Valestar was the only one who knew why the two couldn't draw their weapons. Even though their attacks were not
aimed at the companions, he had a mind to keep the swords in those sheathes. Otherwise, all he knew was that
the women were wanted by the law.
He intended to steer clear of this conflict. Somehow, he doubted the others would feel the same.
***
Arcadian could tell almost instantly that these women did not feel threatened by them but an unseen force. And
when the three Vassans stormed into the inn Arcadian didn't even blink but just watched as the two warrioresses
did their work.
Just in case Arcadian kept Murdach's scimitar on his lap, ready to be wielded at any moment. Quietly the Vakeros
considered the three men who were getting their asses handed to them. Arcadian sincerely doubted that these
were the men who had been sent to kill him and his comrades. They didn't seem like hired killers but more like
petty thugs who had probably been insulted by the women.
***
Perception: 32, a Nat 20
Sol Hawk watched carefully all the goings-on. He exchanged glances with Arcadian but did not move to intercept.
The women were not in any danger, neither did he believe Korlaeth to be. Not with moves such as this. His first
sense was that these women were the unfair objects of attention in a city where the guards were accustomed to
ruling with impunity and getting their way and their tribute. Although they knew nothing about these women, the
actions of the guards showed that they deserved whatever they got. First, that they had spoken no formal arrest
or reason for barging into the bar showed that they were acting on mere impulsiveness. Second, the fact that the
guard Vassagonian had been taken quite by surprise showed that he was barely aware of whom he was attacking further evidence that this was a random act of violence rather than calculated retribution.
Sol eyed the men carefully - did he recognize them?
***
Sol Hawk shot Arcadian a look and the young Vakeros Knight responded by placing Murdach's Scimitar on the table
in front of him, in easy reach and in plain view. Then he shrugged carelessly.
"They can handle it."
Geography Check to determine race - 14
Korlaeth didn't learn much and he rolled a 17. So I
think it is safe to assume that Arcadian doesn't
really have a good guess.
Arcadian felt the same as the Kai Lord did. These men, whoever they were, were receiving exactly what they
deserved and nothing more. The two warrioresses were more than capable of defending themselves. Besides,
Arcadian was enjoying his ribs.
As far as Arcadian had been able to tell so far these women had no ill intentions towards anyone in the group.
Neither of them appeared to be Vassan, though Arcadian could be wrong about such a thing.
Rules,
Rulings
Simyn kept his silence. Summer and Autumn, strange names. Perhaps they had two brothers named Spring and Winter as well?
***
Shame on me
for not responding. I
have been busy with
computer games...
Valestar: I can't
allow reallocation of
skill points in one
without allowing it in
all, so I'm afraid
you're stuck with it.
Sorry.
Arcadian: All you can
discern is that they
are Northlanders by
their hair and skin
(pale skin on Autumn,
natural blonde hair on
Summer).
Autumn stood very quickly and raised her right arm straight up in the air. Something buzzed across the room from her hand as it rose, and at
such speed that no one was able to see it.
The leader grunted and fell backwards into the man who was supposed to help him in this endeavor. Embedded in his chest was a small disc of
metal, half buried between his ribs.
Korlaeth's taunt was not wasted, for both men turned and ran from the room as quickly as they had come. The dining room was silent-everyone was staring at these two women.
Realizing they were being watched by everyone, Summer laughed slightly and shrugged. "Sometimes a thief is insulted when his mark gets the
better of him. I guess he got embarrassed and called on a couple of buddies to help."
"Some people don't know when to stop," said Autumn, and no one who heard her was sure exactly who she was talking about. The dark-haired
one reached through a slit in her robe and pulled out a bag of coins. She tossed these at the innkeeper. "Two nights, plus damages, if you have
no objections."
The innkeeper wiped the sweat from his brow with a sleeve, then shook his head. "No objections, milady." Opening the pouch, his eyes
widened at how much gold was in it.
"And a round of drinks for everyone on us!" shouted Summer, raising her flagon high. This brought several cheers from all in the room, who
were quick to forget about the incident since they now had free alcohol coming their way.
Summer returned to her chair. Autumn remained standing just a bit longer, looking at Korlaeth's table now that she had a reason to use a
standing vantage point. She glanced at him, and then at her sister. Summer looked at her and laughed.
She then looked at Korlaeth with a twinkle in her eye. Wisps of blonde hair fell across her face as she replied, "We are from Kalte originally."
Then she turned to Hawkeye. "Surely you'll not deny me your name, stranger? I am Summer; this is Autumn, my twin sister."
Sighing, Autumn shook her head and kept eating, never once looking up.
***
"From Kalte you say? How utterly interesting! I have always wished to visit that cold country." Simyn was intrigued. "Ah, excuse me, I forgot
my manners. Simyn of Quarlen, sage of that same city. I thought Kalte was only inhabited by savage Ice Barbarians and a few merchants and
trappers. I did not know that there was beautiful ladies as well in that land of ice."
***
"Originally," said Summer, looking from Korlaeth to Hawkeye to the next person to speak to her. She smiled slightly. It was not uncommon for
this to happen. Soon everyone would be talking to her, and Autumn would be trying to drive them away.
"It's a long story, involving a new settlement, too many hardships, and a troublesome pregnancy with twins. Needless to say, during the first
year after we were born, our parents moved."
***
"Summer," said Autumn wearily, "I'm tired. You can stay here and talk to your new friends all night, but I'm going to find where our room is."
The two locked eyes for a moment as the brooding sister stood. Then she left to speak to the innkeeper about their room.
***
Cue game title logo
If Autumn, by some
amazing chance, gives
any indication of being
willing to crack that
shell of hers, even a
little, I'll take the
opportunity. If not, I'll
be happy to stay and
make friends with her
sister.
Valestar :
Korlaeth watched in appreciation as the thieves were quickly dispatched. The thought soon crossed his mind that these two women would
make wonderful allies...if nothing else, being also foreigners, they perhaps shared some of the same enemies, and as the saying went...
"It is a pleasure to meet you both, miladies, and a pleasure to witness your skills." Korlaeth was looking at Summer, but changed his gazed to
Autumn briefly as she stood, "Good night, milady. Should you ever decide to talk..."
***
A faultless display. Sol Hawk exchanged glances with Sir Victor and Cade while accepting one of the free drinks offered by Summer at the
conclusion. Simyn was taking an interest. Kalte - a frigid, dangerous land. Sol had heard little of it aside from tales about the magnificent
Cloudmaker Mountain - that and rumours among his kin that it was the final destination of a certain Kai Outcast and the land was said to be
populated also with barbarians and fierce creatures of all kinds. Were these women of barbarian descent? Sol Hawk considered, then raised his
glass.
"To some excllent swordsplay," he said, joining a toast that the rest of the dining hall seemed to be partaking of, "Korlaeth, please, bring your
friend over to join us." Seeing Valestar's glance, cold as ice at Sol Hawk's casual invitation to these strangers, Sol Hawk only said, "Forgive a
Kai's curiosity, Master Mage. Perhaps we will both learn a few interesting things about this enigmatic pair."
Unless someone
***
can suggest
some other way
to use
concentration?
Arcadian ignored the free flagon that was placed down in front of him. Now was not the time of drinking. The young Vakeros stood, making
sure that his specialized cloak kept hidden his blue-steel shortsword. He resecured Murdach's Scimitar to his belt and approached the
innkeeper.
After reaching into his belt pouch Arcadian flipped the innkeeper a gold crown. The innkeeper caught it in his hand. "Give that to the cook and
tell him that I have tasted none better in months."
Concentration can still
be useful for you. Say
you're trying to cast a
spell and an enemy
who goes before you
in the initiative order
hits you. You then
need to pass a
concentration check in
order to avoid spoiling
your spell.
Arcadian briefly showed a half-smile towards the woman who had been identified as Autumn. Then, just as quickly, he turned away and walked
outside.
The young knight made his way to the stables where Iri was patiently waiting for him. Arcadian pulled up a stool to her stall and quietly fed her
oats for several minutes. The young knight was restless. All he could think of was his meeting with the strange woman earlier that evening...
And the supposed attack from Sharnazim lackies...
***
Simyn raised his mug in answer to Sol Hawk's toast. Although the two women had caught his interest, they were both enchanting and deadly,
but the sage could not forget why they actually where here. He felt eager to discuss their next action. Where in this hive of villainy and scum
could the fair maiden Ameesha be found?
***
Rules,
Rulings
Sir Victor observed the altercation between the women and the thugs with interest. Not only did the two look the part, but they also knew how to
handle themselves in a fight, which could earn them the respect of a knight of Sommerlund.
As they finally bought the next round, the knight raised his glass with Sol, glad to lift the mood around here. Unfortunately, Arcadian didn't share their
good humour, and left for the stables. The Ruanese had already taken care of Bright Lance, so he left the brooding Vakeros alone, and turned his
attention back to the scene with the ladies.
For all you
thrill-seekers,
I'm not going
to drag out
Summer's
interactions "all
night". Soon
enough we'll be
flashforwarding to
the time
Arcadian
dreads.
I inserted this
because Cade
posted before
me just a
moment ago. It
would fit until
he moved from
outside to
inside.
Already three of the group, Hawkeye, Korlaeth and Simyn, were surrounding them and inviting them over to their table, so they'd soon have lots to
talk about, presumably. Only Valestar didn't look too happy about that, but then he was an old man probably too ancient to be interested in beautiful
women.
***
Autumn looked briefly at Korlaeth when he told her good night. A knowing look crossed her face, borderline contemptuous. She shook her head
slightly and mouthed the word "no".
As she busied herself with the innkeeper, Summer spoke in quiet tones. "She has never been too fond of undue attention. However benign your words
are, she's going to assume that you're being nice to her in an attempt to bed her for the night."
She took a long drink from her flagon. "It's all a defensive ruse, nothing more."
Sol Hawk raised his mug in a toast then, and called out to his friend. Summer turned to look at him, then at Autumn, who was just going upstairs. The
dark-haired sister nodded and left. Summer smiled eagerly. "Yes, Korlaeth, introduce me to your friends--hey, where's that one going?" she asked as
Arcadian moved quietly outside.
Though people on the streets went about their business as normal, Arcadian was not able to view any of them as innocent. Each one could be
someone who was coming to harm him and his friends. Someone whose only interest in human life was how much profit it could generate to end it or
disregard it.
How easy it was to take the evil and distasteful aspects of one person and apply them to a whole. Though it was likely none of these people were
anything more than citizens trying to get along in life, it was hard for him to remove the lenses of suspicion that made him view them as less-thanhuman...if the need arose.
A stable-boy approached, and Arcadian almost drew his blade and leveled it at the lad's neck. As it was, the Vakeros' hand stopped short of pulling the
blade free. His body was tensed, his breathing shallow and rapid. The boy's large eyes stared back into his, through lenses of a totally opposite type.
Just a bit of
prose in the
wee hours to
show what the
internet
teaches every
one of us: take
away what we
see and what
we hear, and
ethnicity, bias,
and prejudice
are squashed.
"You are," he quieted down, so as not to be too loud in his poor North Common. "You are a Vake-ah-rose, yes? I saw armor in bags I move to room."
Arcadian's hand clenched tightly on his sword. What would he have to do?
The boy answered that for him with a smile. "You are! I know it. Can you teach me to be Vake-ah-rose like you?"
It was then that Arcadian noticed that the boy had sounded out the proper Dessi word "Vakeros" instead of calling him the slur of "banou". In this
child was the spirit of acceptance that the two nations of Dessi and Vassagonia had forgotten. If only their peoples could mingle together as children
could, ignoring and not questioning the differences. If this boy became a Sharnazim one day, he would be trained to hate Arcadian simply because of
a symbolic color.
As a Dessi elder once told him, "You will become what we have become, unless you become better than us. The heart hates because of what the eyes
and ears tell it to hate. Close those, and you will do this."
***
Arcadian stood outside a moment, breathing in fresh air. His eyes darted up and down the streets near the inn, ever watchfull for what he was sure
was to come. It seemed that all of his life Arcadian had been fighting. Fighting against the enemies of Dessi, fighting against his inner demons,
fighting to gain back all that he had lost in Araluen.
Fighting...
But then again... Arcadain knew deep in his heart that he would never be able to put up his sword. It would never be some relic sitting upon a
mantlepiece as he sat on a hardwood floor in front of the fire, playing with his children. That would never be him. That sword would always be in his
hand and he would always be driving it into that man's chest...
***
Okay, ready to
make some
potions. What
do I need to
roll?
Alchemy check
DC22
Valestar, after realizing they were not going to die, decided to excuse himself along with Autumn. He followed her up the stairs, mumbling to himself
about the formulas he would need for his potions. He didn't say good night to the woman, he was too busy concentrating in his own thoughts. In fact,
he brushed by her without another glance. The thought did cross his mind that perhaps this was one thing the woman would not be used to.
***
As his friend Valestar went to bed, Simyn thought it might be time for him as well. "Good night everyone. Good night ladies." As he walked the stairs
to his room, Simyn thought about alchemy. Perhaps that would be something he should begin studying? Whatever he could learn from Valestar would
be useful. The dwarves of Bor had made interesting discoveries in that field.
"Well, we will probably not have the time. Perhaps better to work at my swordplay. A shame really."
***
Korlaeth looked at Arcadian when Summer asked about him. He nearly stood and followed the Vakeros out, but when Simyn and Valestar excused
themselves, he turned back to Summer.
"Keeping watch," Korlaeth responded, gesturing now for Sol to take a seat nearby, "and what brings you to this pleasant place?"
***
Summer watched Valestar excuse himself in confusion. "Didn't he want you to help him with some marsupial just a few moments ago?"
Korlaeth answered, "Keeping watch," and she just shrugged and smiled, listening to his next question.
"Quid pro quo,
Clarice. I tell
you things; you
tell me things."
Yes, high
perception and
gather info.
"Pleasant place? Don't fool yourself. We were delivering a package of documents from Ferufezan, having set sail from northwest Durenor two weeks
ago. Once we cleared the southern Durenese coast, it was smooth sailing--not a ship in sight till the Vassagonian docks came into view.
"Having never been here before, we decided to spend a few days--and a few thousand Crowns--here in Vassagonia's second crown jewel."
She looked at everyone at the table. Combined with the three that had left, they were a varied combination. The large man appeared to have rough
hands, so it was obvious he did manual labor--or swordplay. The older one and pale one that just left were likely to be similar to Autumn: limited
social skills due to increased academic or talents--or eccentricities. The young man who left to go outside seemed preoccupied, not watchful. And of
the three left, two of them were friendly--one overly so--and one of them was wary. Yes, quite an interesting lot.
"So, what manner of business brings seven people of seeming different nationalities together in Teph, hmmm?"
Rules,
Rulings
Hawkeye looked at the two ladies in the eye, and muttered a short answer, "Hawkeye." A faint smile appeared on his lips, then he turned away and
sat down, back at their table, keeping the two women under scrutiny although he appeared to be ignoring them. He thought that the whole group was
drawing too much attention to themselves. But he didn't realise that at times, it was his brooding and mysterious character that attracts attention,
especially among the ladies.
His drink came and he acknowledged the ladies that bought them, and he took a sip from the tankard. "So the ladies are skilled in combat as well.
Now that is something you don't see everyday." Summer was looking at him again, and quickly he pretended that he was not looking. "Who are they
and why are they here?"
***
Perception: 18
Charisma
Check: 10
Sol Hawk tactfully seated himself near to Korlaeth and listened with interest to Summer's tale. "Indeed," he said, "It doesn't surprise me that you are
attracting attention if you are planning on spending a great deal of gold here. But they do say that anything can be purchased in Teph. As for myself,"
he said in a tone that suggested he didn't want to brag, "I have acquired a fine set of armour. I am Sol Hawk," he said, "it is my pleasure to meet
you... Summer is it? I am of the land of the Sun, although I am at home in the desert realm. I and the others have become fast friends of late, swept
together in our travels due to the war which has unexpectedly arisen in the south. As for our purpose here, I would say each of us has his own, yet we
find it convenient enough to stay together for safety and company. I for one will be traveling home when the opportunity arises, but certainly not
before I have witnessed more of Teph. For example, there is a certain competition being held tomorrow in the Third City which I am looking forward to
and which I will certainly attend if I can convince my friends to go with me." He smiled in his quiet way, engaging Summer and laughing with her and
Korlaeth over interesting things that were said.
***
Korlaeth winced inwardly when Sol Hawk gave his real name, and cursed himself for not suggesting the use of aliases earlier. Anyone who knew
anything of Sommerlund would surely recognize a name like Sol Hawk...ah, well. He smiled at Summer.
"Well, we had a much warmer trip then you, I think, as we came by way of Chahdan, across the desert," Korlaeth grinned at Summer as he shook his
clothing, "I think I'll be shaking sand out of my clothes for the rest of my life. But, as my friend said, one can find anything in Teph." Korlaeth glanced
at Hawkeye across the way, "Hopefully, each of us will find what he is looking for."
Korlaeth's thoughts again strayed to Arcadian, and his smile slipped for only a split second as he glanced at the door again. He shook his head
inwardly, and quickly looked at Summer again. He was playing a role here, and it didn't do to be preoccupied.
***
Arcadian returned to the inn's galley and after giving Sol Hawk and Korlaeth a quick glance he chose a small table and sat down by himself. The
Vakeros was in no mood for 'pleasant' conversation at the moment. This woman Summer held no interest in Arcadian's eye. Though her sister did
intrigue the man.
His father had once told him that the one who spoke the least always had the most to say. Tomorrow, Arcadian decided, he would go out a purchase a
set of armor. Perhaps he would sell Murdach's Scimitar to help pay for the cost. He was sure that the weapon would bring him at least two-hundred
crowns.
But, until then it proved to be a usefull weapon until the time came where he would shed all disguises. His sword would be a cobalt beacon and with it
he would strike down his enemies.
And bring Ameesha home...
***
Despite Sol Hawk's ease at conversation, he found himself stumbling over words when addressing Summer. She was so much more alluring than
other women he had seen, all the more because it was natural beauty. There was a lure to her looks, something about her that not only drew
attention, but captivated once that attention was in place.
What's the
perception
check for?
Also, just for
kicks, her
Charisma is 21
I think (don't
have my notes
with me).
Summer nodded at the Kai's words. "Yes, rumors are spreading among the area that there was some war south of here. Something about an Anari
force that was supposed to be passing this way soon. This is a land of treachery. A fly should never follow a spider across the web, even if the spider
promises not to bite."
To Korlaeth's comment about the sand and her travels, she smiled a bit knowingly and replied, "Yes, but despite the lack of sand, the climate of this
place makes such armor as this a bit sweaty. I'll be glad to retire soon and take it off." She took a swig of her drink, letting the men's minds play on
her words.
She looked at him, then past him to the doorway, then back to him again. She turned her head to face the large man, leaving them on Korlaeth just a
second for effect. "You're awfully quiet," she said to Sir Victor, trying to elicit some interaction from him.
***
Autumn left the dining room and headed upstairs, glad to be away from all the distractions. Her armor was hot underneath her traveling cloak, and
she was ready to take it off and relax a moment.
OOC: The
prior
perception
check is mostly
to see
whatever is
behind
Summer's very
social mask.
That would
probably be
more of a
Sense Motive
check, to see
what her intent
is based upon
what she does.
Perception
deals with
spotting
tangible things
(opposed by
Stealth). Sense
Motive deals
with spotting
intangible
things
(opposed by
Bluff /
Diplomacy).
Her ears caught the slight sounds of motion behind her, coming up the steps. Reaching inside her cloak to adjust her armor--or so it seemed--she
actually pulled out a poison-tipped spike of iron and palmed it as she put her hand behind her neck and stretched.
She slowed her pace and turned slightly, prepared to attack if needed. The old man from the dining room moved by her quickly, never looking up as
he mumbled something and moved two, three, four doors down the hallway and stopped. He reached into his pocket and produced a key, then
entered and shut the door, locking it quickly.
Autumn continued walking, replacing the dart in its hidden holster, until she reached the last room on the right. It would never do for her to be that
oblivious to what was happening around her. As she unlocked the door, she noticed the pale red-headed man coming up the stairs.
She entered her room and locked the door. No, they could not be following her. That would require a bit more discretion on their part. Nevertheless,
she waited next to the door for a couple of minutes, listening with her ear pressed to the floor near the door. No one approached, and no one was
sneaking about.
Satisfied that she was alone and safe, the young woman waited for her sister to return.
***
Arcadian listened in on the conversation with the blonde warrior for a few moments before he became tired of it. It seemed that all this woman
wanted to do was to flaunt herself in front of any man who would eat the attention up.
The Vakeros had never been attracted to such women. Arcadian stood and made his way upstairs to his own room. As he walked along the second
floor he paused at the girls' room. For a second he considered knocking and asking the dark-haired warrioress if she was alright. Ever since she had
entered the inn she had seemed distant, deep in thought.
Arcadian shook his head. If she wanted company that she would ask for it. He knew well enough when to let alone. And now was not the time. For all
he knew she was hired to kill him. He gazed down at Sol Hawk and Korlaeth as they chatted away. If they were the killers then the two of them were
down there practically willing to spill all on their mission if only for a chance at sleeping with her.
He shook his head again before moving away from Autumn's door and approaching his own room. And he had been the careless one. At least Victor
had the sense to keep his mouth closed. All it would take is one single eavesdropping ear and come morn half of Egoliah's force would be waiting for
them outside the inn.
Fools, he thought, now is not the time for conversation.
Rules,
Rulings
Commentary
Valestar prepared his room for the alchemical process he was about to enact. His mind was fully
concentrated on the task at hand, giving no thought to the women he'd just met.
The only thing that bothered him was that Simyn wasn't here. He'd have liked to have shown him
how the process worked.
d_mn it. A 10
on the
alchemy
check. I've
been doing
really poorly
on my rolls
lately (see
Josiah
Sealorde). Is
there any way
for me to
salvage this?
***
Sol Hawk, sensing Korlaeth's momentary discomfort at a Kai's honesty, merely offered his usual
boyish grin. Yet it was Arcadian's fast departure that had given him pause, for Sol Hawk had been
pleased to see Arcadian again in good spirits, then disappointed to see it fade again so soon. Had
Arcadian taken an interest in the dark haired girl? Perhaps. In a moment between words, Sol Hawk
thought that Autumn was not unlike Kamilah. And so was that the reason why? Ah, a shame. The
distractions from melancholy are truly few for the man that sees his true love in every pasing girl.
He would speak to Cade later and cheer him if it could be done. For now, he was captivated by
Summer - and determined to decide if she and her sister might share any goals with them. As she
said, "A fly should never follow a spider across the web, even if the spider promises not to bite," he
looked on, seriously, and said, "do tell, of which spider do you speak? In Teph, truly there are
many, yet I feel you may have one in particular on your mind." He leaned back in his chair, more
and more relaxed as the inn became slowly empty of other tavern dwellers.
***
For the record here is the room lineup, starting
at the end of the hall where Arcadian is.
Arcadian (across from him) Summer/Autumn
Valester (across from him) Occupied
Simyn (across from him) Unoccupied
Sir Victor (across from him) Occupied
Sol Hawk (across from him) Unoccupied
Hawkeye (across from him) Unoccupied
Korlaeth (across from him) Occupied
Stairs down to dining....stairs up to next set of
rooms
Korlaeth smiled politely at Summer's comment, distracted as Arcadian passed through, stopping
only momentarily. His eyes followed Arcadian up the stairs and were still on him when Arcadian
looked back before entering his room.
Finally he shook his head, returning his mind to the conversation just as Summer spoke to Sir
Victor and Sol Hawk asked a question of his own. He waited to speak, seeing how the others would
react to Summer.
***
Summer smiled. "Being 'at home in the desert realm' as you are, I assumed you meant
Vassagonia. If that is the case, you are doubtless aware that any agreement here can be
superseded by a number of variables: gold, power, land, possessions....
"It was merely an analogy to convey how dangerous this place can be. I'll be glad to leave in two
nights."
She finished off her drink and wiped the corners of her mouth with her fingers. "I'm afraid I don't
know of any specific threats that we may both know about. Maybe if you were more specific...."
Seeing as I am at the end of the hall are there
any windows that Arcadian can attempt to
jump through again?
No, only a window in your room, not at the end
of the hall.
Goofball.
***
Sense Motive:
14, Sol is
mindful to
speak only
loudly enough
to be heard at
the table
Bluff
check of 26,
mostly to draw
the attention
away from Sol
and Summer's
conversation,
but also to tell
a decent story,
if possible.
"Ah," said Sol Hawk, "More specific," he mused, "I don't mean to be too forward, but let's take
those guards for example. Why are they really after you? Only for gold, or something more? With
skills such as yours, a common guard isn't any threat, but the attention they bring can be, and
even common guards rarely work alone..." he mused. "Let us only say that my friends and I are
not so friendly with the local regime, either, and little was left of the last one we ran into."
Casually, he pressed something into Summer's hand - the Silver Signet Ring. "The guards are only
obstacles in the web you speak of, but what of the one pulling the strings?" He lowered his voice,
"What more would you share?"
***
KaiLord wrote:
For the record here is the room lineup,
starting at the end of the hall where
Arcadian is.
Korlaeth's full attention was suddenly on Sol as soon as he lowered his voice. Which meant the rest
of the room likely listened harder, as well. Giving Sol, and by association, Summer, an unobtrusive
wink, he pushed himself to his feet.
Arcadian (across from him)
"A tale, my friends! Adventure, romance...!" Korlaeth moved in the room to where he could best be
seen, conveniently drawing the attention away from his companions. "and a monster the likes of
the infamous Dakomyd of Varetta!"
Simyn (across from him) Unoccupied
***
Sir Victor kept his stoic and quiet composure, even under when subjected to the sugary voice of
Summer and her unrivaled gaze. He tossed a bone down on his plate and began to wipe his
fingers. "I am an honorable warrior from Ruanon," he said, conscious that he could not lie, yet not
willing to reveal everything.
This seemed to satisfy Summer, but even if it did not, Sol Hawk continued to ply her for
information. Korlaeth took a cue from this and stood to draw all eyes upon himself instead of his
table. Within seconds, he was telling a story about the Dakomyd itself, finding a way from its
underground lair and rampaging the streets of Varetta at night.
Summer/Autumn
Valester (across from him) Occupied
Sir Victor (across from him) Occupied
Sol Hawk (across from him) Unoccupied
Hawkeye (across from him) Unoccupied
Korlaeth (across from him) Occupied
Stairs down to dining....stairs up to
next set of rooms
And why is that interesting? Okay guys, expect
assassins tonight!
----------
By the way,
Korlaeth, that
was a smooth
move about
drawing
attention to
yourself.
Meanwhile upstairs, Valestar's first attempt at brewing a potion failed miserably. One of his
condensers was not attached properly, and upon heating the distilled water, a jet of steam blew
the apparatus apart. Luckily none of the main components were wasted, and none of the glassware
was damaged. Grumbling in frustration, he debated trying again or waiting till morning.
Arcadian sat in his room and waited. How could he possibly sleep? He knew that something bad
would happen soon. Though it would not be his fault this time, he was still plagued by the fact that
if anything happened, he might not be able to prevent his friends from getting hurt. And that would
be his fault. He paced the room.
Simyn checked his gear in his room and debated whether or not to go and knock on Valestar's
door. He heard something like a hiss and clattering glass, followed by some loud yet indistinct
words. Curious. He never knew alchemy could be so loud.
I promise--no assassins tonight. I did that
simply because something is going to happen
tonight, as foreshadowed, but not assassins.
The main reason I did that was to show 3
things: Summer and Autumn are across from
Cade, in the room where the lady was that he
talked to. Sir Victor is centrally located. Simyn
and Valestar are next to each other in case
Valestar needs to tell Simyn something (potion
creation requirement), or in case Simyn gets
curious and wants to watch Valestar
performing alchemy.
***
Summer looked at the ring and frowned in confusion, turning it over in her hands. "What's this?"
She looked at the symbol on it and set it down on the table. "I'm afraid I still don't understand
what you're getting at. Nuances and insinuations won't work if I don't know what you are alluding
to."
She pushed the ring back to him. "Sorry."
OOC: What, we all have separate rooms?
Ah, I have a bad feeling about this
Rules,
Rulings
I really
do hate myself
for putting
those ranks in
concentration.
I may end up
hating myself
for the rest of
this game. It's
just so painful.
I can't wait till
my next level
up... maybe I
can slowly
begin to
remedy this
situation.
"If more come tonight, Autumn and I are more than prepared. People often underestimate us when we
are on dangerous missions, but I assure you, we will be fine."
And yes, I'm
b_tch*
because I
failed the next
two alchemy
checks,
meaning no
potions
tonight, folks.
I've got my in
laws over right
now (which is
why the maze
tournament
hasn't updated
yet) so I'll let
Kai Lord detail
the results.
Commentary
"As for the guards, the lead guard found us in Third City without a pass. He suggested his own lewd way
for us to avoid paying a fine. I suggested another, which left him dazed and with a blackened eye. Autumn
and I then came here, and I guess he followed us.
She looked at the three at the table in turn. Seeing as how the fourth was busy with a tall tale, this was
her chance. "I must rest a bit before tomorrow. It was good to have met all of you, even the quiet and
evasive ones."
She stood and left, never once looking back.
***
The thought was eating him alive. The women that half of his companions had smitten themselves with
could at any moment attack them.
Arcadian could picture it. Sol Hawk hearing a knock on his door and opening it to find the blonde standing
in the doorway. The young warrioress placing her had on the Kai Lord's chest, pushing him towards the
bed. The goofy grin on his face. The innocent smile on hers. The then smirk just as Summer slips the
poisoned blade inbetween his friend's ribs.
The Vakeros shook his head. What was he thinking? Murdach had made him %$@!#!$& paranoid.
Arcadian inspected his bags. They had been left untouched by the stableboy. Arcadian withdrew his bluesteel sword and placed it loosely underneath the first sheet cover on the bed. He still had the shorter
blade underneath his cloak and Murdach's Scimitar at his side. A khanjar in his belt, and a blue-vein
dagger in his boot.
Arcadian almost laughed to himself. Because for some reason he still didn't feel ready for what was to
come.
***
Dangerous mission? To be fair, it was not likely that Summer would say more on this, and likely she'd
already said too much. As she excused herself from the table, Sol Hawk found now that he had more
questions than answers... and Summer was supposedly the talkative one. He smiled and bowed his head
as she left the room, stowing the ring in his pocket before turning to hear Korlaeth's story which now
captured the Kai Master's imagination even as he considered Summer's words and what they could mean.
If she didn't know the meaning of the eagle-symbol, then he wasn't sure if the women would be of any
help to them. There was just one thing that Sol Hawk and the others had to do - find Ameesha. Alas,
though they would be headed most likely for the Third City tomorrw, he was sure they wouldn't find her
there. But then another thought crossed his mind - if Summer and Autumn knew their way into the Third
City, did they also know a way into the Second? He thought about this and other things as Korlaeth at last
came to the conclusion of his dramatic tale - and when Korlaeth had finished, Sol Hawk suggested to him
and to Sir Victor that it was late and likely time to retire.
***
Dang, I was so
frigging sure
that I had
already
posted. Don't
tell me I
dreamt that
I've
posted??!?!?!
Hawkeye finished his drink and excused himself. He stopped briefly as he passed by Summer, bowed
slightly, "It is a quiet night, one I would enjoy in my room. Goodnight my lady." He walked up the stairs
effortlessly, smoothly and silently, such was the way of Kai warriors, trained in the art of stealth. He
paused at the top of the stairs, looking at his friends, then at the blonde woman. He looked at her cooly
and walked towards his room.
He entered it, and closed it behind him. He looked around the room and then began to take off his clothes
and equipment. In only his pants, he started practising his sword skills, as a way to relax himself as well
as to think on certain things. After a while he stopped and drank a glass of water from a tray that was
provided in the room. He took the metal tray and leaned it against the wall, which will clatter when the
door is opened. Perhaps while he was asleep. No reason why he shouldn't be more careful now than ever.
***
I'll stay
up for a few
more hours,
probably
leaving myself
time for just a
couple or few
hours of sleep
before
morning.
Korlaeth watched Summer leave as he wrapped up his tale to the sound of a few shouts and scattered
applause. He bowed a few times and returned to the table just in time for Sol Hawk to rise and shuggest
retiring. Korlaeth nodded in understanding and watched the Kai lord head upstairs before he sat down at a
vacant table where he could face the door and have his back to the wall. He was slipping more easily now
into his standard way of doing things, and was starting to feel more and more responsible for his
companions' health. He knew they could take care of themselves, but, well...Arcadian's warning preyed on
his mind now that things were quieting down, and there was still the matter of Summer and Autumn.
They seemed friendly enough.
Korlaeth looked around the room, acknowledging one call for another tale with a smile and a slight
shaking of his head. For the time being, he would wait to see if these brigands came.
***
Sir Victor hadn't talked much with Summer precisely because he didn't want to have to give anything
away, since he could tell no lies to uphold his knightly vows. Besides, the Kai Lords, and presumably
Korlaeth, since he'd already seen the Vakeros work under cover to infiltrate the Sharnazim/Talons
warband, were much better suited than him to gather any information from the woman. And he could
concentrate on watching the door to the inn, in case the threat Arcadian warned about materialized,
although his eyes were torn between that and the blonde beauty sitting at the table not 5 feet from him.
He pretended to listen casually, as he finished eating.
Then, when Korlaeth started telling his tale, the knight understood the ruse and covered Sol and
Summer's conversation with his loud applause and generous laughter. Finally, shortly after Summer left
the table, Korlaeth wrapped up his tale. Before retiring for the night, however, he made sure every knew
which watch they had.
So who wanted which
watch? Maybe we should post someone
at the end of the hall, so they can have
a could view of every door.
I think Korlaeth has that
covered. From his post, it sounds like
he's staying downstairs in the common
room until almost morning. Perhaps
even falling asleep down there, but I'm
sure the innkeeper will move him along
before them. In fact, I'm positive.
***
Sol Hawk settled into his room with just enough time to bid Valestar goodnight before retiring. The mage
was quite angry at Sol Hawk's interruption - from the sounds of explosions in the mage's room, Sol Hawk
excused himself swiftly and retired to a quiet meditation. Princess Ameesha, he thought out to the night,
Where are you? Now that he had attained his new Rank of Master, he could feel his Sixth Sense and
Telepathic Skills improving - he could have sworn that he almost heard the girl's voice in his mind, yet the
words were unclear - and when he felt a deep sense of isolation, Sol Hawk could only wonder if it was him
or her who had felt it. We're coming. he thought out, and still concentrating his mind upon contact, he
drifted off.
Sir Victor, I'll suggest that
Korlaeth gets the first watch since he
has an eye out, then you, then me.
Cade might be acting as an additional
night sentry, but this plan guarantees
that at least one of us is awake at all
times.
Rules, Rulings
Just as Simyn settled down to go to sleep, he heard a small explosion nextdoor. Startled, he and a few others rushed to Valestar's
room to see what had happened. Arcadian, who was next door, was certain the attack had commenced. Instead, they only found the
Dessi mage, cursing and grumbling as he gathered up the pieces of a broken flask.
"Miscalculation," he said as his only explanation. The rest returned to their rooms, and Valestar tried once again to create a potion.
All he managed to do was nearly put his eye out when a loosely secured cork popped out of another flask and ricocheted off his
forehead. He staggered back into his bed and fell over it, dazed, as a brown smoke crept from the bottle and sank to the floor, then
through the cracks in the floorboards. Perhaps, he conceded, it would be best to quit for the night and try again when he hadn't had
a full day's activity distracting and fatiguing him.
The hours passed. Arcadian remembered the last night he had forced himself to stay awake. He had kept watch over Kamilah. So as
to lay a trap for those who would harm him, he doused the lamp in the room and sat in the dark in a corner, able to watch the
window and door.
Korlaeth was intent on staying in the common room all night, but as the owner of the inn locked the main doors and shut the
stronger inner doors, he shooed the Vakeros off to his room, citing that the common room was off limits till sunrise. Korlaeth was
not too thrilled with this, but he agreed. At least his room was still the closest to the stairway to the common room. In addition, he
noted as he walked to his room that the boards of the steps were a bit creaky and had no central supports under the steps
themselves. The result is that anyone walking on them could be heard, if only faintly.
More time passed. The city underwent the nightly lull common to most cities, wherein the noises from people lessened, and the
noises from animals increased. Dogs barked intermittantly. Apparently an owl had taken residence somewhere in the city, for its
hooting could be heard every so often. A startled cat screamed in the distance, likely scaring whoever was nearby. All was quiet.
Shortly after midnight, Arcadian heard the noise. A soft tap outside his window. Within seconds a shadow loomed into the dim
moonlight that filtered into the room. Someone had climbed up a ladder and was outside his window.
***
Arcadian stepped back into the shadows of his room, his hand slowly bringing his blue-steel shortsword from its sheath. In the
darkness, as long as he did not activate his battleblade ability, none would be able to make out the cobalt hue of the blade.
The Vakeros Knight pressed himself against the wall of his room, hoping that none had seen him. Whether the figure at the paned
window was friend or foe did not matter. Arcadian would be putting himself at a disadvantage by approaching when he knew not
what man or beast was there.
Arcadian waited. Ready.
There are intruders in the
following rooms:
Arcadian, Valestar, Sol Hawk
Anyone in an adjacent room, as
well as any awake characters,
will have heard. The doors to
these rooms are (unfortunately)
locked from the inside. This
means they will either have to be
unlocked or broken down (Bash
check DC17).
Arcadian's Room:
Intruder 1 (in room): AC 10/14
(flat-footed) EP: 40/40 Init: 11
Intruder 2 (on ladder): AC 13
EP: 45 Init: 11
Valestar's Room:
EP: 40/40 Init: 16
No other intruders yet
Sol Hawk's Room:
(on floor from entry) EP 47/47
Init: 18
No other intruders yet
(5' move) Whatever Sol Hawk
needs to sit up/stand up
(move)(move) Grab Scimitars
(psychic) Psychic Attack 9 DAM
(not an action) Psychic Lash 5
DAM
(free) Strafing Will 5 DAM
(free) Perception: 29
NOTES: -1 EP Strafing Will, -1
Arrow, -1 AC for Sol Hawk
(Psychic Lash) -1 to attacks for
enemy (Psychic Lash) -2WP for
Psychic Attack
Bash check : 19 (phew)
Initiative : 19
ROUND 0 (Surprise Round)
The window in Arcadian's room shattered with a crash as something hard and heavy crashed through it and bounced off the opposite
wall with a thud before landing on the floor. The man outside the window did a quick rake around the frame with metal rod, then
dropped it and threw an animal skin over the window's bottom in case any glass remained. He made a clumsy leap into the room
and stood to get his bearings.
More crashes sounded from nearby.
Seeing the bed in the dim light, the man instinctively swung his bitakali in a broad overhead arc, intent on cleaving anyone sleeping
on the bed.
Arcadian had not been detected, but a quick glance to the window showed another person was coming.
---------Valestar was dreaming of a failed alchemy experiment, one the sent his precious equipment skyward in an explosion. It began
landing, crashing into pieces as it did so...and then he realized this was no dream.
Someone had just entered his room! He threw off the covers in the direction of the intruder, but the man was already swinging. A
large thick wooden staff struck the mage in the ribs, causing him to careen out of bed onto the floor. Valestar: -6 EP, prone (move
action to stand), Concentration check DC15 to cast whilst prone if desired (see, it can come in handy)
---------Sol Hawk was dreaming of Summer, and not the warm sunny season that had just ended, either. So it was with a bit of irritation
that he awoke as something smashed through his window, followed by a man who leaned in and fired a crossbow, missing the Kai's
hip by inches. The man then threw the crossbow as he leaped into the room, and unfortunately that did hit the Kai upside the head.
Sol Hawk: -2 EP
ROUND 1
Sol Hawk had fallen asleep thinking about Ameesha, but had somehow ended up dreaming about Summer. And not that it was an
unpleasant dream... except for the part where a bandit came crashing through the window, firing then a crossbow toward the bed...!
Sol Hawk found himself dodging the bolt, coming awake instantly to see that it had been real (though the part about Summer hadn't
been). Sol Hawk was already moving for his scimitars which he had positioned nearby. Very nearly he avoided the thrown crossbow.
Very nearly, but not quite.
Defending himself with his swords, Sol Hawk searched the dark in hopes of seeing more than a dark shape. His psychic abilities were
released (9+5 DAM) against the adversary and the figure seemed to hesitate at the unexpected speed of the Kai Master's attack.
Finally, from the quiver on a nearby table, an arrow came flying into the attacker's side (DAM 5)
***
Hawkeye heard a commotion coming from next door. Sol Hawk's room. He immediately grabbed his sword and rushed out. Only
then he heard noises and fighting from the other rooms at the end of the hallway. "Assassins!" He shouted and banged on Korlaeth's
door. "Get to the others!" He then rushed to Sol Hawk's room and tried to open it. Locked. He stepped back and brought up his leg
and kicked the door, right at the lock. The door crashed opened, surprising the combatants inside only for a moment.
Hawkeye rushed in to confront the intruder, "Sol, are you alright? I think the others are in danger as well."
***
No one knows this.
Autumn sat upright as the stone went through the window in Arcadian's room. She looked at Summer, who merely rolled over and
sighed as more muffled shattering noises broke the night's stillness.
"Oh leave them be, sis," said Summer sleepily.
Rules, Rulings
Commentary
"We need to investigate."
"Oh leave me be, sis. Go yourself if you like, but I need my sleep." Summer laid her arm
over her ear to block out the sound.
But what about the-Get out of my head, too, Autumn! shot back Summer.
The dark-haired twin got out of bed and drew a blade, then walked past Summer's bed
and kicked it spitefully. The pillow that Summer threw in irritation missed.
Autumn heard Hawkeye shout out "Assassins!" and looked at Summer. If she had heard it,
she did not let on that she had. Autumn unlocked their door and opened it a crack,
peeking into the hallway.
***
To my actions,
Simyn tries to reach his rapier
and poignard this round.
Initiative - 14
Intimidate (Demoralize
Opponent) - 17
Attack 1
Attack 2
Damage
Damage
- 20
-9
1 - 13
2 - 13
Sorry, no time for a more
detailed post right now. lol
Simyn awoke at the sound of glass splintering. Without thinking he jumped out of the bed
and ran towards the place he had put his weapons. If he could just grab his rapier and his
poignard, he would show any would-be assassins, that Simyn of Quarlen would not give in
without a fight.
"You are fool to come hunting in the darkness."
KaiLord wrote:
The Vakeros Knight lurched forward, his dark cloak enveloping his human figure in the
darkness.
***
Well, technically they're not
Korlaeth was on his feet in an instant, glad he had stayed awake, if a little sandy-eyed. Ah,
well, nothing he hadn't done before...
kill you. These are just ruthless
1st 24, Damage : 10
2nd 14, Damage : 10
"Where are they?" Korlaeth hissed at Hawkeye, glancing down and then upstairs, straining
to locate the sources of the crashes.
Damage 1: 6
Damage 2: 7
spent 6 WP
Sol Hawk's room-----Æ
Sol Hawk's Room:
Intruder 1 (in room): AC
10/14 (grappling) EP 18/47
Init: 18
EP 36/36 Init: 11
Arcadian's room ------Æ
Intruder 1 : AC 14 EP 27/40
Init: 11
Intruder 2 : AC 13 EP 45/45
Init: 11
***
Valestar woke from his dreams of accidentally melting his clothes off in front of the ruling
council to pain and loud noises. Confused and dazed, he was slow to react to the attack
made on him. He hadn't even begun to stand up when the man was over him, ready to
strike again. His instincts kicked in at this point, and fate guided his mind, giving him the
power neccesary to unleash a double magical attack that if it connected, would send his
opponent reeling.
Another man topped the ladder and pointed a crossbow at Hawkeye, taking careful aim.
The Kai ignored the man for the moment and instead moved to slam his weapon into the
unprotected back of the first intruder.
Sol Hawk: To see if you remain upright from this grapple, roll a Grapple Check: d20 +
Base attack bonus + Strength modifier. You must roll against DC19. If you fail, you fall to
the floor. If you pass, you are still held.
---------The man who Arcadian attacked yelled in fright as a shadow in the corner leapt at him with
razor-sharp fury. The blade sliding across the man's gut carried both fear and pain, and he
staggered backwards even as his partner entered the room and drew twin scimitars in
preparation for the attack.
The second intruder climbed through the window and crouched low in the shadows-Arcadian had no idea what he was doing.
----------
Time synchronization: It
is now the start of round 2.
one person sending another to
thugs.
True, they're not but then Hawkeye
shouted before he had seen them
closely, as a warning. And he didn't
know who they were.....or what they
were. Besides, tell me which sounds
more hmm, more melodramatic,
shouting "Thugs!!!!" or "Assassins!!!"?
LOL KL, pls. take note that Hawkeye is
not wearing his armor at the
moment.....just his bare skin and
sword.
***
Korlaeth entered the hallway, realizing that all the crashing glass sounds came from
somewhere on this floor. His friends were in danger. He saw Autumn standing at Valestar's
door, doing something.
Valestar's Room:
Intruder 1 (in room): AC 13
EP 27/40 Init: 16
EP 50/50 Init: 8
assassins. That would require
The Kai's assault infuriated the man and for a moment he stopped and looked as Hawkeye
kicked down the door. As Hawkeye spoke, the man ran straight at Sol Hawk and barreled
into him with a shoulder. Strong arms crushed the Kai, and the man began to pull Sol
Hawk to the floor, growling and grunting in anger as he did so. Sol Hawk: -3 EP subdual
Outside the door, Autumn began to enter until she heard noises from the room beside his.
Valestar's room-----Æ
I promise, tomorrow night you can
sleep in peace.
***
Full attack if possible, if
not then the first one :
Force Blade 1: 18
Force Blade 2: 23 (24 if the
first hits)
Well, technically they're not assassins.
That would require one person sending
another to kill you. These are just
ruthless thugs.
Arcadian watched with a hint of amusement as this 'assassin' started hacking apart his
bedsheets. The Vakeros stepped forward towards the man, his weapon poised and ready.
He rushed through his door into the hall, the Overlord's khanjar half-hidden beneath his
robes. He saw a shape in the darkness, but stopped himself when Hawkeye's voice came
out.
Initiative was 24.
Perception check to tell where
the crashes are and if there
are any more downstairs or
upstairs: 12
There will be no assassins tonight.
Right! Rule #1 of role-playing, never
expect to sleep in peace, except if
you're dead.
The mage called upon his ancestors to help him, having a twinge of doubt that he could
fail. A lance of light connected his outstretched hand to his opponent twice, causing the
man to grunt and curse. He slapped his club in his free hand and moved around the bed,
bashing the prone mage's outstretched arm, while his accomplice reached the top of the
ladder. Valester: -5 EP
It was at that time the door flew open as if someone heavy had slammed into it. Standing
in its place was a small dark-haired woman. Valestar instantly recognized her as Autumn,
the quiet yet sharp-tongued girl from earlier in the night.
"You'd best leave now, or I will kill you with your own weapon."
The big man and his partner laughed at the threat. What threat was a small girl and an old
man to them?
***
Honestly, what's going on? This is the
worst I've ever rolled in my life. I pass
the concentration with flying colors,
which then means I can spend WP...
and then I fail both magic attacks! Or at
least I think so. I rolled 11 (with a
natural 1) and a 10. If I failed, then I'm
rerolling on both with fate's blessing for
the following scores:
Force Blade 1: 18
Force Blade 2: 23 (24 if the first hits)
Damage 1: 6
Damage 2: 7
Rules, Rulings
ROUND 2
Attack: 18
Damage: 10
5' step (hopefully) to position Intruder 1
between Arcadian and Intruder 2.
Arcadian did not know what the man in the shadows was planning but the young Vakeros decided that it was probably
best never to find out. He moved quickly, putting the man that he was currently engaged with between him and the other
man.
As he moved Arcadian brought his shortsword in a sweeping motion, striking his enemy hard. As he positioned himself
Arcadian tried to bring his blade around for a thrust but found himself off balance, his attack going wide.
***
1st attack : 28, damage : 11
2nd attack : 18, damage : 6
Psychic damage : 6
Grappling Roll success: hit DC 26
(Psychic) Psychic Attack vs Grappling Thug
(not an action) Psychic Lash vs Grappling
Thug
(free) Strafing Will vs Grappling Thug hit AC
24
(free) 5' step across the room
(fullround) scimitars vs. man on ladder
NOTES - Sol Hawk loses 1 EP (SW) loses 2
WP (PA) and took a -1 penalty to hits and
DAM this round (PsiLash). Also because of
PsiLash, Sol Hawk is suffering a -1 penalty
to his AC.
Move action into Vale's room. Attack on
thug nearest to the inside door, assuming I
can get around Autumn. Attack roll of 18
for 7 points of damage.
Noticing the appearance of a second intruder on the ladder, Hawkeye immediately summon a burst of psychic energy
from the depths of his mind and sent it swirling towards the second intruder. He moved his attention on the one on the
ladder, after deciding that Sol Hawk can manage himself for the moment, he probably should not kill the intruder for the
purpose of questioning later on.
***
"Who are these men?" he asked Hawkeye, who had just joined the fight, "And what do they want?"
As the thug slammed into him in an attempt to knock him over, Sol Hawk took a half-step to the left, allowing the man's
momentum to carry him into the wall. Sol Hawk recovered fast. Sol Hawk unleashed a burst of psychic energy against the
thug - Sol Hawk hit him with his Mindblast, Psychic Lash, and Strafing Will in fast succession (DAM - 7+4+6 = 17). The
thug staggered as he got the psychic beating of his life.
Following Hawkeye, Sol Hawk spun his swords and hit the man on the ladder. Together, the Kai Lords put paid to the
sneakthief. (DAM 12+10+7+9 = 38)
***
Korlaeth looked down the hall as Hawkeye entered Sol's room and Autumn entered Valestar's. He hesitated for just a split
second, but decided that of the rooms he knew were attacked, Valestar was in the most immediate danger, despite the
arrival of Autumn.
He dashed into Valestar's room, taking quick stock of the situation, and calling out "Autumn, it's a friend," hoping that she
would recognize his voice, if nothing else. The Overlord's khanjar then struck swift and hard at the nearest thug.
***
Despite being aware of the danger this night, the Ruanese knight quickly fell into a deep sleep, so that it took him a few
moments to gather his wits after sounds of crashing windows woke him. Shaking his head to clear it of sleep, he quickly
got out of bed and unsheathed the broadsword he had hung around the back of the chair, and stumbled out of his room
into the hall, trying to assess the situation. The doors to two of his fellows' rooms had been broken in. Sol's was the
closest, and also the mage Valestar's farther down the hall. Just as he was about to decide, he saw Korlaeth run past him
towards the mage's room, and so he chose to go see how Sol was faring.
***
Still only in his nightshirt, but armed and dangerous, Simyn ran out of his room and decided to enter Valestar's room,
afraid that his friend was in jeopardy.
***
Great, thought Valestar. Now we've got Autumn in my room. Guess that makes me Winter. Then Korlaeth entered... here
comes Spring...
Move action: stand up
Force Blade +2 (29 = hit): damage 5
Val: That makes you Old Man Winter.
Everyone: Sorry for the delay in updating.
LOTS going on at the main site to address
this morning. Okay where were we... Oh
yeah, Autumn was about to—
Sol Hawk's Room-------------------------Æ
5' step across the room? Not quite. I'm
turning that into a move action.
"What are you all doing in my room?" Valestar yelled, both at the companions and the intruders. He rose off the floor and
aimed another bolt of energy at the man who had attacked him. "Haven't you heard of privacy? Oh, hello Simyn! How are
you this fine morning?"
***
Sol Hawk managed to slip out of the man's grip by turning, then sent psychi darts at the man. Unfortunately, psychic
powers are hard to control, and the force of the attack was sufficient enough to jolt the already-wounded man's system.
He staggered into the wall and collapsed on a small table, sending a serving tray with cups and a water pitcher crashing
to the floor.
Together the two Kai rushed the man on the ladder, laying open enough gashes in his upper body that he merely
screamed in pain and fell backwards off the ladder, landing on the hard sand below as the ladder skidded sideways down
the inn, falling at his feet. He did not move or even groan.
Sir Victor rushed into the room, ready for action, but a bit too late.
---------"Nizahn!" cried the man who had crouched down, who then turned and climbed out the window hurriedly. The other man
who Arcadian had just slashed returned the injury, laying open a long slice across Arcadian's chest. He then jumped onto
Arcadian's bed. Arcadian: -7 EP
Arcadian's Room-------------------Æ
Intruder 1 : AC 15/14 (high ground) EP
17/40 Init: 11
Intruder 2 (on ladder) : AC 10/13 EP 45/45
Init: 11
Valestar's Room-------------------Æ
(I'm going to love writing this part)
---------Valestar saw Autumn enter, and it didn't make him feel any safer. He stood and shot another pulse of energy at the
intruder, distracting him only for a fraction of a second.
That was all the time Autumn needed. She tucked into a forward somersault and when she stood, she extended her left
arm outward. Something sailed through the air and struck the man in the window as he was climbing through.
The intruder with the club cried out in terrible pain and reached for his head as the girl righted herself to stand before
him. The lithe girl then performed a double-handed maneuver on the intruder's forearm and wrist, prying the club from
his hand. With a sidestep and twirl, she brought the wooden cudgel around, down, and up. With a dull crack, the club
caught the man square on the point of the chin, smashing his teeth together and breaking his jaw.
Korlaeth entered just in time to see the man fall over next to the girl. Spotting the man slowly easing through the
window, he rushed over and plunged the dagger in the man's back. The body merely slid forward slowly, then landed
limply on the floor.
Valestar could not believe what he had just seen. But Simyn's immediate entrance distracted him, adding to the
disorientation of the past twenty seconds; he had gone from being alone to being one of six people in his nowovercrowded room.
Rules, Rulings
Korlaeth looked at the man. "I didn't think I would kill him with one shot," he said in disbelief. Autumn moved quickly over and pulled a
small metal spike from the man's chest.
"You didn't," she said, rushing to the door. "Come on, there's more!"
***
al-Akra'min sat patiently for the officer on duty to enter the small antechamber of an unmarked Second City building. He waved away a
glass of water that a serving girl offered, then stood and greeted the man as he entered.
The Guard Captain saluted and then listened to al-Akra'min talk. He nodded and spoke at length to the guildsman. al-Akra'min listened
with stoic silence to every word said, making mental notes for the next evening when he would meet up with the Vakeros again.
No one knows this.
"Anything else," asked the guildsman.
Nodding, he held up a medium-sized black mace. al-Akra'min noted the oiled leather-wrapped handle, the large oval head, and the
numerous oval bumps that covered the head. "A battle-mace. Not from this land."
"Sommerlund," said the Guard Captain. al-Akra'min raised the eyebrow over his uncovered eye and gestured for the captain to
continue.
"They've captured a Kai spying on the Lords' Council. Cute one, from what I hear."
With a frown and a deep sigh, al-Akra'min looked at the mace. So it belonged to a Kai.
"Can I take this?"
The captain nodded.
al-Akra'min strapped it to his belt, using a rather ingenious loop and hook system fashioned on the grip. "They should know about this,
too."
ROUND 3
The Ruanese quickly realized that the two Kai had everything well under control. However, the rest of the companions were not out of
danger, as the sounds of fighting could be heard coming from down the hall. "The others may need our help!" he said before spinning
around and racing down the hallway towards the two last doors - Valestar's was wide open and people were already streaming out of it.
***
Korlaeth smiled wryly at Autumn's metal spike, then wordlessly followed her out the door to take the other intruders.
***
Athletics Check: 10
Acrobatics Check: 16
Arcadian watched as one of the men started to climb down the ladder that the two of them had come up on. He had only a split second
to make a decision so he made it quickly.
OOC: Sol is rolling a
perception check in order to
realize that an enemy is
coming toward the stair
before the enemy realizes it.
The Stealth Check is used by
Sol to hide in the shadows
near the top of the stair. If
this pays off, he will be using
his surprise with The Swiftest
Strike against an opportune
enemy...
"INTRUDERS! Arcadian shouted at the top of his lungs and then launched off running towards the open window and the ladder. Just a
few feet short of the window Arcadian launched himself, striking the ladder with both hands out in front of him.
Stealth: 22 (plus bonus for
the darkness?)
Perception: 16
The ladder lurched backwards. As he fell Arcadian grasped onto the ladder with all of his strength, staring down the man who had tried
to escape and was now facing up at the night sky.
"Ahh!!!"
***
With both their adversaries down, Sol Hawk moved into the hall with his scimitars. He searched in the darkness for the action and
noticed that the sounds of battle were everywhere. He nodded to Sir Victor who he met in the hall. When he realized that their group
already had things well under control, he positioned himself in the shadows near the stairway in anticipation of a secret enemy escape
or advance...
***
Valestar hesitated to follow the others into the hallway. "What about my alchemy equipment?" he said. "This belonged to my old Master,
I can't just abandon it here! Dear lord, if his spirit ever got hold of me... what would I say?"
***
I'm going to the closest
room where I still hear battle.
Hopefully I will get some
piece of the action.
"Don't fear Valestar, I'm certain we can repel these unwanted intruders. Simyn looked for any enemies to slay, but it seemed that the
girl had done a right and proper job. "I'm going to check upon the others. They might need our help!" Simyn ran out.
***
Arcadian sprinted across the room, not realizing what he ran past. He may have reconsidered had the lamp been lit, but as it was, he
was intent on his goal. With a leap out the window, he grasped the top of the ladder and used his momentum to push it away from the
window.
His body fully out of the window, he swung his legs down onto the rungs and slammed his feet onto the hands of the intruder, who had
been climbing down the other side. The ladder reached the pivot point and then tilted on across the alleyway, crashing into the inn next
to them. The intruder could not hold on, and after a painful swing and slam into the wall, he dropped head-first onto the ground, landing
in a heap. -1 FP
Arcadian had to contend with a startled man in the room next to where the ladder landed. Apparently the man thought Arcadian was
trying to break into his room.
Sol Hawk, you can't see
the snakes. You don't even
know they're there.
To the three in the room,
there is no room to back up,
thanks to the press of the Kai
and Sir Victor outside behind
you.
They both struck at and
missed Arcadian.... Lucky
Banou.
Back in Arcadian's room, however, a group of people rushed in. Korlaeth and Simyn entered first, followed by Autumn, who grabbed a
lantern from the end of the hallway and held it high when she entered the room.
On the bed was a black-clad Sharnazim, scimitar held at the ready, torn between staying where he was and fleeing. On the ground next
to the bed, near the window, a pair of sand cobras slithered around angrily. Both of them had raised heads and flattened necks. One
kept watching the man on the bed; the other one started to move across the room toward Simyn.
Behind the trio in the doorway, the Kai and the knight arrived. Valestar trailed behind, peeking out of his doorway first.
The commotion had awakened other people, who were coming out of their rooms on this floor, and rushing down the stairs from the top
level. The owner of the inn stood in a striped nightshirt, shocked.
"What is going on!" he cried from the end of the hallway.
Rules, Rulings
ROUND 4
Are we still in combat?
Perception roll : 32 (Yeah 20+12)
"We have unexpected guests and we're about to find out why." Hawkeye taunted the Sharnazim as well as replying the
stress-stricken man, taking a step forward. Hawkeye's eyes dart around the room, searching for any hidden intruders,
anything else that will go bump in the night.
***
Taking a little liberty to have fun here.
Not technically in combat. Korlaeth,
Simyn, and Autumn still are.
OOC: Still Camouflaged in the shadows,
holding the strategic point at the top of
the stair
Hawkeye was first on the scene after the original trio. Not being able to see anything, the Kai shoved into the room, pushing
Korlaeth into Autumn, and shuffling Simyn forward closer to the snake by a step.
Now able to see fully, the Kai gasped in alarm. "Sand cobra!"
"I know! I see!" said Simyn, trying to shove Hawkeye back out of the room.
In the brief moment before he was pushed back out of the room, Hawkeye managed to see everything there was to see--and
he even heard someone shouting nearby (possibly outside) about thieves breaking in.
And where was Arcadian?
Perception 16
Ah, forgot about your post Sol. I'll
update mine
Thanks, KL - I see a very minor
change is all that was needed to make it
work
Knowledge Nature check: 28
Very aggressive. Drawn to
movement in light. Heat sensitive in
dark. Highly venomous. Common in
western Vassagonia in the
grassland/scrubland.
Obviously, if someone else kills the
snakes first, I'll simply make some
appropriately witty remark and keep my
khanjars to myself.
Ugggh...attack
rolls were 17(with a natural 1), and 14.
Damage was 1 and 2.
***
Sol Hawk, still in the shadows, lowered his swords and hid them beside himself as he allowed the people to move past him
and down the stairs. He had no intention of abandoning his post, revealing himself from the shadows, or shocking the poor
innkeeper any further. He took on an easy stance - should an innocent see him, he might appear only to be overseeing the
procession of people to the lower level. In reality, however, he was watching for the enemy which he was certain must still be
about.
As someone began shouting about Cobras, his interest was piqued. So, these were not petty thieves at all. He was tempted
to leave his post briefly, then again when he heard the crash from Cade's room, but his emerging wisdom told him that this is
where he needed to be and that his friends could handle these obstacles without him. The larger question was, if indeed
these men were more than bumbling thieves, who had sent them?
***
Simyn was very careful around the snakes not wanting to anger them. He also tried to remember if he had read anything of
this particular breed of snakes. Had the scholars he had visited in Barrakeesh mentioned them?
***
Korlaeth stumbled forward as the press of bodies pushed him into the room and closer the asps. He reacted quickly with the
first thing that came to mind and quickly threw the Overlord's and then Paru's khanjar at each snake in turn, hoping to
skewer them swiftly and ease the danger.
***
Arcadian held his hands up in a nonviolent manner towards the startled man and then pointed towards the crumpled warrior.
"Corrupt Sharnazim." Arcadian said, in good humor of course. Arcadian walked over to the crumpled man, putting his bluesteel blade back under his cloak as he did so.
If he is alive and conscious
Arcadian will punch him. If he is
unconscious or dead Arcadian will leave
him where he is and make his way back
to the original inn.
Unarmed
Unarmed
Unarmed
Unarmed
Attack: 17
Damage: 8
Attack: 22
Damage: 6
Total: 14 submissive damage
***
Simyn is standing very still, but is startled when Korlaeth attacks the snakes. The sage hopes that the stars are on Korlaeth's
sides because the snakes' venom is deadly.
***
Arcadian tried his best to explain, then slid down the ladder and investigated the intruder.
Dead. His neck sported a horrible bulging bruise.
Knowing the front door would be locked, Arcadian tilted the ladder back to his window and began climbing.
---------Korlaeth's blades served only to anger the snakes. Both of them turned toward him now, their movements jerky and hoods
flared broad and flat. Autumn elbowed the Vakeros out of the way. "Hold this," she said, passing him the lantern.
Danger averted thanks to a bit of desert
skill.
Ignoring the man on the bed--who couldn't really move due to danger of being bitten--she squatted low and began to
rhythmically move her hands from side to side, humming a strange tune. The snakes were lured to her movement, and they
slowly began to follow her hands.
They slithered close, too close for Simyn's comfort, for they were within striking range of him.
"Do not move," sang Autumn to the tune she hummed. The snakes were within arm's reach of her now.
Arcadian's ladder smacked onto the windowsill, drawing the attention of everyone but Autumn and the snakes. The Vakeros
topped the ladder and began to climb in. The vibrations drew the snakes' attention, and as they turned, Autumn quickly
grabbed them around the necks, her finger under their jaw and her thumb pressing their heads down to keep their mouths
shut.
"Get that sack!" she said, looking at the heavy sack the serpents had been in.
Realizing he had nowhere to go, the man on the bed dropped his weapons and looked around nervously.
Not all Sharnazim were made of steel....
***
Simyn was intrigued. That display was as impressive as the disciplines of a Kai Lord! How did she do that and could it be
taught? Autumn had caught his interest.
***
With the snakes under control, Korlaeth retrieved his blades and gave another wry look to autumn, accompanied by an
honest bow.
"You are a woman of many talents, lady. Thank you for your timely assistance."
Rules,
Rulings
Autumn tossed the snakes into the bag and tied it tightly.
"Well, it's a lot less dangerous that catching Javeks. But it's done about the same way. Two snake heads...two-headed snakes...not much difference."
She watched as Korlaeth reclaimed his weapons. She looked as if she wanted to say something, but thought better of it. Her gaze lingered on him still
when she did speak.
"So, what are you going to do to him? Not that it's my business."
***
Arcadian grasped the unarmed man by the shoulder and pulled him to his feet. The Vakeros did a quick search of his person, hoping to perhaps find
the money they had accepted to kill and rob these 'travellers'. As soon as he was done Arcadian pushed the scared man to the ground.
"Who cares what we do with him, I already know who sent him. Our Sharnazim friend from the city gates who led us to this tavern."
With that Arcadian made his way to the window, "I will be back come morning."
The young Vakeros climbed down the ladder and made his way through the dark towards the city wall entrance where they had came into Teph. If
Arcadian had his way...the corrupt Sharnazim he was looking for would be there...
***
Valestar hadn't stopped grumbling about his expensive and beloved alchemy equipment. "It had better be in top shape when we return," he said.
"This is the cause for a mighty vendetta! Who were those people, anyway?" he asked Autumn, who seemed to have some idea of what was going on.
***
OOC:
Assuming that
this 1 EP guy is
still around for
this post
Sol Hawk appeared briefly, towing the passed-out Sharn from his room that he and Hawkeye had left on the bed. The man was still groggy from the
fight and the innkeeper, still in his bathrobe, gave a little yelp and a burp as Sol appeared with the man.
Actually, he's
dead, Jim. You
laid into him
pretty hard
there. You still
have someone
to question
though.
Trouble is...the
"enemy" may
soon have
someone from
your group to
question.
Arcadian strode purposefully through town, turned right onto the long straight road they took into Teph, and walked up to the gates, where only a
couple of people were seeking to leave the city.
"Well, maybe we should ask this man what the meaning of our... visit was."
***
After they left, the guards--who were neither of them who he was looking for--looked at him with disinterest.
"Yeah?" One of them said in North Common, though Arcadian was beginning to comprehend bits and pieces of their language.
---------Autumn looked at Valestar as he pushed his way into the room. Outside in the hallway, chaos reigned as the innkeeper assessed the damage and tried
to figure out what had happened and was happening. People nosed about curiosly or grumbled about missed sleep.
"How should I know?" she replied, a bit defensively. "They're not after me or Summer, if that's what you mean. Looks like they were after your
friend."
She looked around the room.
"So where is your friend?"
***
"It seems he left. Perhaps we should follow him. He might find himself in troubles he can't handle alone."
***
"Too late for that, Arcadian's probably far from here already. Let's just hope he doesn't get himself in any trouble he can't handle." replied the knight
to the sage.
"Let's have a little talk with our "guest" here, shall we?" he continued, as he made his way into the crowded room.
***
"Is everyone OK?" said Sol Hawk to the others, then with understanding, he said to Valestar and Simyn, "These are only things and can be replaced.
Perhaps it will be possible to take the best pieces and store the rest in safekeeping - perhaps somewhere nearby. I am not certain if it will be easy to
bring such delicate instrumentation with us, and now following this attempted robbery (and the attack on the girls last night) I am not sure we would
be wise to stay here much longer."
It's a little
late, and it
probably won't
change much,
but this was
the first thing
that popped
into my head,
which is usually
the Korlaeth
thing to do...
If it's too late
to change
anything, go
ahead and
delete this post
and let me
know, and I'll
alter my next
one. This just
seemed too
good an
opportunity for
character
building to
pass up...
Sol considered Simyn's thoughts concerning Arcadian carefully, then finally nodded at Sir Victor's words, then turned to Autumn. "Our friend is not in
his room, though I have no doubt that he is more than a match for robbers. Although I must admit," he said, eying the bag and admiring Autumn's
skill, "that it surprises me that thieves would resort to the use of cobras - and venomous ones at that. Miss," he continued, "I know this seems a
strange question, but if you have no need for them, would you consider allowing me to keep these snakes? I am attending an event tomorrow and it
might be interesting to compete as well as watch."
He offered his usual boyish smile, then said, "Your sister is alright, I trust. Surely she hasn't slept through the commotion."
***
"I shall certainly not leave my alchemy equipment behind! Asking a Dessi Mage to leave their mentor's alchemy set is like asking a dwarf to leave
behind their gun, or a Brother of the Crystal Star their pendant! Granted, those things are a bit smaller, but I'm not leaving without it!"
"Now, isn't one of these men still alive? Perhaps we can get some information out of him?"
***
Korlaeth raised an eyebrow at Autumn's unspoken question even as Arcadian spoke and quickly headed back down the ladder. Korlaeth looked out the
window, grimaced and shook his head in resignation.
"Don't wait up."
He quickly pushed out the window and followed Arcadian down. At the bottom of the ladder, and to Arcadian's back, Korlaeth spoke, "Could you use
some help?"
***
Hawkeye stepped outside of the room to make sure the coast was clear, no one eavesdropping on them or any other unwanted guests lurking nearby.
He stood by the doorway and kept watch as the others were discussing among themselves. He was eyeing the Sharnazim and glared at him as he
looked back.
"Anyone wants to talk with our honored guest here?"
Rules,
Rulings
damn.
Arcadian couldn't see the man he was looking for. The guard had been reduced to only two Sharnazim. The young Vakeros was still angered that they
had been led into a trap by the corrupt police of Teph but he hesitated from confronting the two men.
"Yeah?" One of them said in North Common, though Arcadian was beginning to comprehend bits and pieces of their language.
Arcadian paused. He had no way of knowing if either of these men were corrupt or good men with wives and children waiting for them at home after
their shift ended. And in that lay the difficulty.
The two sharnazim were still looking at Arcadian and Korlaeth expectently. Arcadian made his decision quickly. He would return in the morning,
perhaps the man he was looking for would have returned by then. Arcadian knew his best chance would be to lie low and wait to be contacted by the
woman who had tipped him off in the first place.
Arcadian shook his head, "I must have gotten turned around."
With that Arcadian began to move away, carefull to watch his back. He pulled on Korlaeth's sleave as he did so. As soon as they were out of earshot
Arcadian leaned in.
"Neither of those men is the Sharnazim I'm looking for; the man who purposefully led us to that inn."
***
At Sol Hawk's suggestion, Valestar pushed past the people outside Arcadian's room and inspected his equipment. It had been scattered, and some
pieces were knocked over, but it was otherwise unharmed. The mage didn't know what type of flimsy glassware they had in Sommerlund, but he was
sure that his Dessi-made glass was more durable.
He left and shut his door, lest anyone be tempted to swipe an alembic as a novelty beer mug. The owner of the inn was now sending patrongs back
into their rooms, and he himself was trying to get into Arcadian's room.
Inside that room, Autumn looked at the sack of snakes in response to Sol Hawk's question. "I thought we could use them on him," she said, jerking a
thumb towards the intruder. This idea didn't set well with him. Apparently he spoke North Common well enough to undertand the exchange.
The Innkeeper pushed in at that moment, demanding to know what was going on. Simyn scooped him to the side with a friendly arm-around-theshoulder and began explaining in fluent Vassan about how these men were robbers and so forth.
Hawkeye and Sir Victor closed in on the man on the bed, removing his weapons and beginning a thorough search before they lowered their guard.
Valestar entered and shut the door, taking the lantern and using a stick-wick to light another larger lantern in the room.
150 GC left
Someone can
interrogate the
guard now.
Don't limit to
one question.
You can ask
more than one,
and I'll answer
in one post.
Hawkeye found a sizeable sack of gold on the man, and as soon as he voiced his discovery, Simyn reached out and took it, shaking out a handful of
coins for the Innkeeper. Hawkeye realized why soon enough--he was paying the man for repairs...and silence.
Autumn suddenly felt tired. Enough of this. She didn't belong here, and the Vakeros had left to go after his friend. What else could she expect. She
always drove people too far away to ever adequately connect to them aftwards. There was still time to sleep and recover some of her energy for their
goings-about tomorrow. Or was it already after midnight? She didn't know.
---------Korlaeth caught up with Cade and found that the hot-tempered Vakeros had little to say this night. His mind was on retribution...as it always was.
Korlaeth found that intriguing. Did Cade ever sense that other Vakeros might seek retribution over him for what he did? Did he have any idea who
Korlaeth really was?
The night did not belong to Arcadian, however, for the man/men he sought were not on duty. Feeling somewhat like a fire once the fuel is removed,
Cade's anger flared out fast, leaving him smouldering hot but unable to do anything with it.
intimidate
check: 10, for
what it's worth
(untrained)
He turned and left, leaving Korlaeth to trail along behind him.
***
The huge knight tried to use his massive bulk to scare some answers out of their prisoner, who seemed to understand North Speak, but whether it
impressed him or not was uncertain.
"Pretty careless of you to prey on bigger game than you could chew. You can either answer or take a trip into the snake bag as the lady suggested.
Who sent you and what was the purpose of your attack?" asked the knight.
***
"Indeed," said Sol Hawk, "Were you trying to rob us or kill us? That's more attention than you need unless you had a bigger reason. Who sent you?"
Sense
Motive: 19
Sol Hawk spent his time trying to decide what he could from the words the man used as well as from those he didn't use. As Autumn turned to leave,
Sol bid her goodnight and safe journeys - "Until Ishir wills us to meet again," said the Kai Lord.
***
Question:
Do I have 150
gc left in my
purse or did
150 gc leave
my purse?
Quick
interjection:
150GC is left in
the purse of
the intruder.
Hawkeye found
it and you
snatched it
away from him
to pay for the
damages.
Simyn spoke with the innkeeper and being at his best the sage persuaded the poor man that it was for his best not to mention this little incident to
anyone, especially not the guards.
***
Korlaeth pondered Arcadian's back as they returned to the inn. Again and again, he walked up beside his brooding brother in arms, opening his mouth
to speak, but the results of their last conversation, if it could be called that, stopped him.
Finally, as they returned to the bottom of the ladder and Cade began to climb, Korlaeth spoke,
"I'll ask around in the morning, if you'd like."
***
Arcadian put his right foot on the bottom rung of the ladder. Korlaeth's voice echoed in the back of his head and he stopped.
"I'll ask around in the morning, if you'd like."
The Vakeros set his foot back on the ground and turned back around to look at Korlaeth. He stood in front of his fellow brother, a cold look on his
face.
"Korlaeth. You never said which school you were from."
Arcadian had a sneaking suspision about Korlaeth and now it was time that he confronted his fear. For the past several weeks Arcadian and Korlaeth,
though brothers in blood and arms, had only spoken once - and it had been with fists.
"What do you know about me Korlaeth? My name is Arcadian Belcqua, son of Arthelos. What do you know about me?"
Rules,
Rulings
Arcadian knew that one of two things could possibly happen at this point. Either Korlaeth honestly did not know what had happened or he did know
and was waiting for the right moment.
He knew what he faced. He would be marched back to Elzian and tried for murder. Arcadian knew the penalty for killing a fellow Vakeros. He would be
lashed thirty times a day for thirty days. On the thirtieth day they would exacute him. His head would fall. His family's name would be soiled. His
father's name.
Arcadian had returned to Araluen to see Kamilah. He knew that she was not expecting him. It had been over a year since they had last seen each
other. The young Vakeros rode his horse up to the familiar house and dismounted with a smile upon his face. And he had opened the door to see
Kamilah standing in the center of the room, the arms of a man around her.
He wore the scarlet and violet tunic of a Vakeros Knight. He had dark hair, as did Arcadian, though he looked several years older. Kamilah turned and
looked at him, surprise on her young face. Arcadian rushed forward, his hand already formed into a fist. The two separated as Arcadian's fist
connected with the older Vakeros' face.
"Arcadian no!"
But he hadn't been able to stop. He had the man on the floor of the cottage. Over and over again Arcadian put his clenched fist into the man's face.
Only when his hands were bloody, his bones ached, and the sweat was pouring down his face did Arcadian let up.
His head was swimming. He looked around, seeming lost. Kamilah was huddled on the floor, tears running down her face.
Hey
Korleath.
Whether your
character
actually knows
or not is up to
you. Either way
I plan that by
the end of the
game
Arcadian's
secret will fully
come out. Now
everyone (the
players) know
what
happened. We
will see about
the characters.
Cade
"He...Tarith was just a friend." She sobbed bitterly. Tarith the Vakeros coughed, blood pouring down the sides of his cheeks, his eyes fixed on the
ceiling.
Kamilah reached for Arcadian's heaving shoulder but the dark-eyed Vakeros moved his arm away from her, ignoring her sobs. Tarith was still on the
floor, gasping at air through the blood that filled his mouth.
Arcadian stood and moved towards the door. Kamilah's sobs fell upon a cold heart with no remorse. He had been wounded. Her feelings no longer
meant anything to him. Arcadian only stopped when he heard the steel drawn.
Cade was no fool. He sensed Tarith rushing him, sword in hand, without even having to turn and face him. Arcadian was ready for him.
"Why you insolent piece of..." Tarith's insult was cut short as Arcadian turned at the last second. The older Vakeros stopped dead in his tracks. When
he stepped back he was holding the hilt of Arcadian's blue-steel shortsword. His own blade clattered as it harmlessly hit the floor. Tarith stared
dumbly at the blood that flowed down his hands. The blade of the weapon had been pushed nearly all the way through him.
Tarith raised his face to Arcadian's, horror written all over him. Arcadian stared him down. No pity. No remorse. No guilt.
"Go to hell." Arcadian withdrew the blade, raised it, and cut the man's throat. Tarith fell back, his eyes already rolling back into his head. Arcadian
didn't even hear the words that Kamilah said. He never looked at the body as it hit the floor.
Arcadian turned and left Araluen upon the back of his horse. He made his way west.
Arcadian walked slowly, moving away from the ladder. His eyes remained on Korlaeth, illuminated by the flickering torches that lined the streets.
"What do you know, Korlaeth."
Nice
story Arcadian.
Valestar's past
will come out
soon, as well.
As soon as he
needs to make
another truth
potion.
***
Autumn crept back into the room and latched the door. Summer stretched and yawned. "Is it as cold in that room as I think it is?"
"Well, except for one spot of course, it's absolute freezing."
Summer smiled. "I thought so. See you in the morning."
Autumn checked the brace she had put on the window earlier, then checked the brace on the door that she had set in place after she set the latch.
She climbed into her bed and sighed. No one steals from her.
***
Simyn pocketed the rest of the money. It would surely be useful in the future. The sage was certain that this was no robbery of foreigners but a
murder attempt.
***
Valestar came back into the room as Sol Hawk and Sir Victor asked their questions. He waited to see what the man's reaction was. If it was
unfavorable... well, the Dessi had their own methods of getting information out of people.
***
The nervous man saw there was no way out of this but to cooperate.
"We are part of a ring of Sharnazim who marks travelers by sending them to inns. Then we rob them the same night."
Sol Hawk held up the bag. "The snakes?"
"A diversion. There are other groups of thieves in town who kill people with sand cobras. This is to keep the populace from knowing it is us doing it."
He was clearly terrified. Sir Victor asked for the truth and came closer, his fist raised. All the man did was cringe and cover his face, letting out a soft
whimper of dread.
***
"Look," said Sol Hawk, "My friend is seriously unhappy when he is awakened in the night by poison snakes. And none of us are fond of being robbed
or murdered. As you have seen, we all have learned well the ways of war, and while we do not like to kill, we do what we must if we are to protect
ourselves," he said, tipping his head to where Autumn had exited, "and our women."
Sol Hawk paused, allowing the gravity to sink in. "I can appreciate that even thieves do what they must, even as we do what we must. I think you
might be more reasonable than the rest, and the truth is that you, as gate keeper, may well know something that will help us and show us your good
will also."
Bluff: 24
Sol Hawk removed from their place the two scimitars that had been Tava'ryn's. "I think you know who these belong to. These were found by us on the
battlefield and they will be worth something to the right person - Egoliath. I don't intend to have these confiscated or lose profit due to taxes or tithes
by greedy middlemen. I will see Egoliath myself - in person. As I said, I want no go-betweens involved - not more than necessary. I merely need to
know where he resides in Teph - the rest is my business, understand?"
***
Korlaeth stopped in surprise at Arcadian's confrontation and simply stared for what seemed like forever. Despite his extensive Keron training, a range
Rules,
Rulings
of emotions flickered across his face. Finally, he decided to answer the easier question.
"I trained originally at Valos," he answered, certain that Arcadian would intimate his true meaning. Fellow Vakeros knew of Keron, but vows of secrecy
were still vows of secrecy. As for the other, Arcadian's name had come up as one who must be brought back for trial before the Magi as soon as he
could be located shortly before Korlaeth had left Dessi the last time. It must be serious, for it was stated that he would face a full trial and possibly
execution. Duty required that Korlaeth take him into custody and return home. However. . . .
Korlaeth's dreams had grown more and more troubling on this journey. He had simply intended to help rescue Ameesha, hopefully preventing
Vassagonia from taking advantage of the weakness of its neighbors, but he had become embroiled in something far greater and potentially much
more dangerous for this corner of Magnamund, and thus, his home. Duty also required that he see this thing to a conclusion that would protect Dessi,
and so far, Aracadian had shown that he was willing to go to any lengths necessary to help complete that goal. In such a conflict, the greater need
must be served first. Korlaeth blinked and mastered his expressions once again, now staring impassively at Arcadian.
"Duty requires that you return immediately to Elzian to face trial." Korlaeth spoke gravely and Arcadian shifted, the tension immediately obvious in his
stance, "However, duty also requires that we rescue Ameesha and keep this part of the world safe for our homeland."
A silence dragged, then Korlaeth smiled with sudden intensity, "For now, I would have you to stand with."
Satha was right, Korlaeth thought behind his smile, I am the lenient one.
***
"Duty requires that you return immediately to Elzian to face trial."
Arcadian had preparing himself for months. He had mentally prepared for the moment that the Dessi would fine him and ask for atonement. All of that
was gone as Korlaeth spoke. The words hit him so hard he felt that he would collapse.
The Vakeros sat down. He hadn't smoked the pipe in years but now he was yearning for the familiar taste of tobacco. Drugs that altered the state of
mind were forbidden by the Vakeros...not that that mattered now.
"So, you do know." Arcadian said solemnly. "Intuition tells me that you do not know my crime... Do you know what I face in Elzian?"
Korlaeth nodded.
"Execution." Arcadian hated the word. Of all the words in the Eldreth language he despised that one the most. Korlaeth and Arcadian had been
speaking in their language tongue. Even if another was listening, none but Valestar would have been able to understand it.
So, Arcadian, though fearfull of his crime's punishment, decided to throw all caution to the wind and confide in his countryman. His brother-at-arms.
His own warrior blood.
Korlaeth sat in silence as Arcadian told the tale. When he was finished Arcadian sighed and closed his eyes, allowing the memories which he had
fought back for seemingly forever to wash over him as a tide.
"So you see Korlaeth. I am no longer your brother; no longer am I a Vakeros. I have slain my fellow blood and felt it run down my hands."
Arcadian opened his eyes and looked at Korlaeth. In those eyes Korlaeth saw something he had not seen before. Since Korlaeth had met Arcadian he
had been cold, no feeling, nothing. His eyes had been dark pits, nothing more.
Korlaeth saw feeling. He saw guilt. Most of all he saw sorrow. This man...was broken.
"My crime is murder. Now that you know it, who have you to stand with?"
***
Korlaeth's smile faltered as Arcadian shared his tale in full. He sat down hard next to Arcadian as the young warrior confided his terrible crime.
Korlaeth stared into the night, seeking answers with Satha's words running again and again through his mind.
There was no anger, for that had all been released when they had fought in the cave to the north. There was sorrow, of course, for a brother in arms
who had been lost and for the deed that Arcadian had committed. He looked at Arcadian's face as he finished his tale, and for once, there was
something there, something in those eyes besides the deadness. The sorrow, the guilt...Korlaeth could see the burden Arcadian had carried for so
long, and he finally made his decision. Korlaeth stood and faced Arcadian, more serious then he had ever been on this trip.
"Will you return to face trial in Elzian for what you've done?" there was sympathy in Korlaeth's voice, but it was an undertone to the sternness.
***
Cade looked up at Korlaeth's figure, illuminated by the stars that shone above him. Tears rolled down the Vakeros' face but Cade managed to hold his
gaze, his eyes touching Korlaeth's.
Arcadian
plans on
having two or
three drinks
and then
returning to
the inn for a
couple of hours
of sleep. He
would also like
to purchase a
pipe and a
pouch of
tobacco if he
can find it,
though I doubt
it at this hour.
"I know what I did was wrong, and for that I would have faced my punishment willingly. And yet there was something in my soul that told me my time
on Magnamund was not yet done. Whether this was truly something divine or merely a selfishness and fear of death on my part I do not know."
Cade was now weeping openly, "Either way, that is why I sought Ameesha. I wanted to know what the future for Kamilah would be if I returned to
Elzian for my crime."
"Will I return to Elzian? I will walk myself up to the doors of the very courts I dread. As a Vakeros of Daernath I will open those doors and walk in,
undetained, and suffer what I know I must suffer."
Arcadian had wiped the tears from his eyes, taken a deep breath, and slouched. He simply breathed for a few minutes before continuing in a much
calmer voice.
"Korlaeth, go to bed. Dawn will come soon and you need your rest. I need to go find a drink."
Arcadian stood and began to walk down the street, hoping to find a late-night bar. He honestly didn't care of Korlaeth decided to follow him or not.
Arcadian knew that he wasn't going anywhere. If he meant to hide from the Dessi he would of took off the moment he met Korlaeth and Kamilah at
the fairgrounds.
But for now... some good old fashioned rum would do to calm his nerves.
***
Sir Victor was inclined to believe the Sharnazim's tale, and he listened intently to Sol's proposal. Of course, if they let the man go, they would have to
be even more careful for retribution. The knight waited for the man's answer, trying to determine if he was honest and truthful.
***
Valestar listened in silence to what the Sharnazim had to say. Were they to be plagued by them everywhere they went? They weren't even in Vassa
anymore and yet still they were followed. He didn't like that Sol Hawk had mentioned Egoliah That was a dangerous move. But now they had no
choice but to see how it played out.
***
Rules, Rulings
Commentary
As if the sobered and shocked look on the man's face at the appearance of Tava'ryn's swords was
not enough (for every Sharn knew the emblems of the Overlords--and this explained why he had
not appeared in the city yet), the mention of Egoliah's name brought a reaction Sol Hawk had not
expected.
The man made a warding sign against evil.
"I do not know the location of the untah kharesh-zhadi. And I do not want to. If what you say is
true, you kill out of necessity. He kills out of whim."
He backed up from the swords, as if they were possessed by evil. "You may kill me now, but I will
not seek out the untah khrash-zhadi, nor ask about him."
He looked at Sol Hawk and the rest in turn. "You have no idea the danger you are in to speak his
name so openly in Teph. And you," he said to Sol Hawk, "are the most foolish of all. You threaten
me with snakes, yet you yourself seek the most dangerous asp outside of the Dahir Crescent."
"Tava'ryn is Egoliah's brother, and blood-kin are avenged in Vassagonia. May the gods have mercy
on your soul, for he will not."
---------Outside the window, the two Vakeros exchanged more truth than they had the entire time they
had been intertwined in one another's lives...one fully, the other to a point. Each was doing what
he had to do, though not necessarily what he was supposed to do.
With a reluctance, Korlaeth let Arcadian go on his way into the streets of Teph. Would he try to
escape now that he know--or thought he knew--who Korlaeth was? Not likely.
The Keron climbed back up the ladder and saw that Autumn was gone, the Sharn intruder was
cowering at the head of the bed, Sol Hawk was seated at the foot of the bed, and the twin swords
of Tava'ryn laid on the sheets between the two.
Ishir's tears, what had Sol Hawk done now?
---------Sure, I could make it a whole
side adventure, but there's no
need. And no, no pipe or echanorah (tobacco) to be found
tonight for sale. Thought the
second-hand smoke from the
taproom was kind of nice.
Arcadian walked around for an hour, not caring if he got lost or mugged or whatever. After a trip
around the merchant area which was unsuccessful at securing him a pipe of any kind, he returned
to the section of taverns and inns and settled into one of the all-night taprooms for a drink.
And another.
And another.
And...well, it would have to wait. He couldn't drink himself into a stupor, for he felt the effects of
the alcohol starting. He paid the man the 5 Crowns for the dilution of his misery with spirits, then
made his way back across the small park to the Green Oasis.
***
Korlaeth watched Arcadian go, but said quietly to his retreating back, "Then I would have you to
stand with for now."
He turned and climbed the ladder back into the Green Oasis. So preoccupied was he that he had
one foot completely into the room before he registered the Overlord's swords laid out on the bed
in all their glory. His eyes widened in shock as he involuntarily glanced at Sol Hawk, then
instantly, his mask was back in place. He moved completely inside and strode purposefully over to
Sol, drawing him near the far wall from the bed and speaking quietly, but urgently.
"Are you planning to kill this man, now? If he leaves, all of Teph will know of those swords we
carry, and I fear we will find Egoliah much sooner and less advantageously then we hope."
***
KL, like to keep you on your
toes.
Korlaeth, let's see how this plays
out first - he may know
something yet
OOC: Perception: 32 (nat 20)
keeping an eye out for anything
at all out of place here, etc,
focus on the Sharn
He is hiding nothing, or if
he is, he is a master at it. In
fact, he only seems to be
harboring a personal satisfaction
that--no matter what happens to
him--you'll end up dead. If he
had information on Egoliah, and
could offer that, he may have
ended up bargaining for it with
loot rather than freely offering
you his head.
And now the personal dilemma:
to kill or not to kill, and if not,
then what?
Sol Hawk instinctively knew that the man before them was even more afraid now that Egoliath's
name had been mentioned - his Sixth Sense confirmed this. Danger. They were in deadly danger
since they set foot into Egoliath's home turf and every moment they delayed intensified it. If they
were to set foot into the Second City, they needed a plan and a direction. They would need to find
their opponent fast - whatever this one said to anyone, Egoliath was probably already aware of
their presence or would be very soon in any event. Only speed would give them the advantage
and any hope of rescuing Ameesha alive - if she was even still in Teph as Arcadian's vision had
indicated.
"You have not done well to become caught up with us," said Sol Hawk matter of factly, "and I can
see that you also have no respect for these blades. Your friends are more fortunate than you, for
they have perished, but as for you, your choice is still ahead of you. One way or another, I shall
find my way to Egoliath - and when I do, he will not be so pleased to know that you Sharnazim
have interfered with the ones who were to bring to him his brother's blades. You might take word
to him yourself - suicidal as you have already said. You could hinder us further - this will mount
his fury against you when he finds out what you have done. Or you can tell me now where he is
and no word of this need ever escape my lips. The choice, my friend, is yours." Sol Hawk opened
his palms before the man who sensed that indeed the situation had all the gravity Sol Hawk had
indicated and more. The Sharn knew that his own life, nay, the lives of everyone he knew, hung in
the balance of the decision he made now.
***
"If you are to take him those blades, then you are prepared to die, yes? Entangle me no further in
your madness. Kill me now or release me," he said, bending his head low and pulling his headwrap and hair to the side to show his neck.
"I cannot help you find the untah, outsider, any more than you could help me find a single tree
among a forest. He moves in circles beyond those of gate-thieves."
***
"This man knows nothing," said Sol Hawk to Korlaeth, "but he seems too eager to watch us go to
our deaths. I do not wish to see this man dead, but he has already proven a willingness to kill us
once before. Who is to say that he would not do so again?" Sol Hawk put his blades away. "He is
clearly terrified of Egoliath. I do not believe that he will have anything to do with the Overlord. But
I see no remorse from him for what he has done here tonight."
Vassagonian
Language
untah
khareshzhadi
loosely
translates
into "head
assassin"
Rules,
Rulings
"I agree, my brother. And as such, he is still a threat to us. He glees with anticipation at our deaths, and letting him go free may prove to haunt us in
the future. And to kill him is far too easy for him, and never in cold blood.. I say let God decide for him....." Hawkeye stared at the man, then turned
to look at the bag of snakes.
***
"I guess we have to release him. I won't like to have his blood on my hands. Killing in a fair fight my be unfortunate, but I won't be party to murder."
Simyn smiled. "And I guess neither will you gentlemen or I do not know you as well as I think."
***
The knight was slightly uneasy with killing their captive. It was one thing to defeat an armed opponent on the field of battle, and quite another to
execute an unarmed and helpless man. But the alternative was no better, now that Sol had openly declared that they carried the blades of the
overlord, which could imply very few things to any observer.
***
It was about this time that Arcadian had returned to the ladder and climbed up into the room. Everyone was still standing there, contemplating what
to do with their captive. Arcadian and Korlaeth exchanged a glance; inner conflict evident in both of their eyes.
Arcadian still had Murdach's scimitar at his side and he watched as the captive looked over the blade.
"We don't have to kill him in cold blood. Give him a khanjar, and then everyone leave the room; I will stay with him."
That got several questionable glances from all present. Korlaeth, with his knew knowledge looked about to say something but Arcadian continued.
"Encountering men such as this before they have chosen to kill themselves rather than death at my hand. He has a choice. He can end his own life, or
he can fight me."
Arcadian looked the man over. "If he kills me than he can escape out the window."
For all of Arcadian Belacqua's faults he believed in a fair fight. He never would have drawn steel against Tarith the Vakeros if he hadn't drawn first.
"If you let him go, our lives will become much more difficult. You all know this. Personally I believe that we have seen enough conflict these past few
weeks. The last think he we need is Egoliah knocking on our door. Our fight with him should be at a time and place of our choosing. Not his."
***
Sol Hawk listened quietly to Arcadian and what had been said. Everyone was uneasy at what had transpired.
"In Sommerlund, this man's sentence in any court would be very clear... as would it be in Dessi, and from my knowledge of this land, yes, even here
in Vassagonia. Arcadian, you have volunteered to give this man a fairer fight than he and his band had hoped to give us. I say just this - I will be in
my room, and may Ishir have mercy on us all."
Sol Hawk gave an uneasy smile to his friend, Cade, placing a hand on his shoulder before glancing at Hawkeye but glancing apologetically at Simyn
before leaving for his room and shutting the door behind him...
***
Arcadian smiled at his friend as Sol Hawk laid his hand upon his shoulder. The gesture meant much to Cade, whose greatest comfurt in his time of
conflict was that he had those he could call friends around him. Sol and Cade had shared a special bond since they first met. Arcadian had felt Sol's
heart nearly stop beating and then had brought him from the brink of death.
Such a bond could never be broken.
Cade could see that several of the others seemed ansty at Arcadian's suggestion. Simyn and even Victor in particular. Victor seemed undecided and
Simyn appeared to not like the idea at all. Hawkeye was more of a practical man, thinking of the consiquences of letting him go.
Korlaeth, as always, was an enigma to Arcadian.
"What other choice do we have?" Persuaded Arcadian. "This bandit entered my room with a bag of poisonous adders. He would have watched as the
poison ran through my veins and laughed as I died writhed on the floor."
Arcadian looked at Simyn, "you know that what I suggest is far better than what he deserves."
Edited my post.
Seems
Murdach didn't
have a khanjar,
my bad. Post is
edited to
reflect this.
Cade removed his blue-steel sword and Murdach's Scimitar from his person. He handed Sir Victor his own, familiar blade and then tested the scimitar
in his hand.
"Give him whatever weapon he wishes, the fight will be fair. I will not use any magic, by blade nor mouth. What choice do we have? Is risking all that
we have fought and bled for worth letting a guilty man live?"
"By all rights we should kill him in the manner he intended to kill me. What I propose is a way that will satisfy him, you..."
Arcadian looked at the man who offered his neck.
"It will satisfy me."
***
Korlaeth looked steadily at Arcadian as his suggestion was discussed, but spoke only briefly.
"I will stand witness, that no one may ever have cause to question the integrity of the Vakeros."
He moved to the corner of the room farthest from Arcadian and the man on the bed, his hands loose at his side.
***
Though the rest of the group tried to dissuade him, Arcadian was in "that kind of mood". Korlaeth knew this and at last convinced everyone it was the
only way. Others did not agree with this, most notably the Knight, who silently left the room with a stern look and a frown at the hot-tempered youth.
Simyn asked to stay in Valestar's room for the night, for he did not want to hear the commotion that would occur next to his room.
Sol Hawk gathered up the blades and sent mental word to Arcadian, "Make it quick. As little noise as possible."
He knew the Vakeros heard, but Cade made no outward sign of acknowledgement. Korlaeth took the scimitar of the slain intruder and gave it to Cade.
He tossed the Sharn his original blade and pushed the door shut.
Arcadian moved toward the window, blocking any form of escape. The Sharnazim looked the blade over and climbed off the bed.
"Vakeros? You are banou-ta? Though I do not know the untah, I know his hatred of your blood runs deep. Though I may die, my people will live on.
One day, your nation will be swallowed."
Rules,
Rulings
Arcadian sighed. "Finished yet?"
The Sharnazim sneered and charged, holding the blade close, next to his body. Arcadian sidestepped the lunge and stepped around the Sharn. He
slashed horizontally across the man's back. The meat separated from bone, and blood sprayed as the Sharnazim staggered and turned for another
attack.
"The Vakeros by the door killed the Overlord with one shot. It seems that Ashtarah is slowly swallowing your nation."
The Sharnazim feinted left high left, then flicked his wrist and slashed low and to the right, tearing open Arcadian's thigh. Bright red blood sprayed
into the air, and Cade winced in pain. Seizing the opportunity, he turned to make for the window. Grunting in pain, Arcadian twirled his own blade and
slashed across the man's hamstring, trading him blow for blow. He fell short of the window, cutting his hands on bits of glass that remained. Arcadian
closed in and placed the tip of his scimitar at the soft spot behind the man's collarbone, next to the neck.
"Ever heard of Myr-atoch?"
The Sharnazim's turned to Arcadian.
Arcadian:
Overall loss of
-6 EP, modified
for rest (so
don't add those
EP back) and
Sol Hawk's
healing.
"He's in Ashtarah, too. Send my regards." Arcadian plunged it through, severing windpipe and aorta in one smooth motion. He then collapsed to the
floor, losing blood rapidly.
Korlaeth moved from the door, and Sol Hawk--who had been listening silently outside the door--burst into the room and went to work immediately
with his Kai skills of healing. Korlaeth dumped the body out the window and pulled the ladder inside.
Simyn entered then, looking curiously at Arcadian and Sol Hawk, but saying nothing about the scene.
"Everyone whose window is broken has new rooms on the other side for the rest of the night."
---------The night passed uneventfully. In the morning, a dozen Sharnazim were waiting in the common room to quickly question those involved with the
night's spectacle. The interrogations were brief and unobtrusive: what happened? what did you do? did you kill them all?
The officer in charge spoke to the innkeeper as his men left the premises. "I feared there were still some gate-thieves still operating on this side of
town. We'll up patrols around here at night for two moons, just so they don't retaliate against you."
Mopping his brow, the innkeeper shaked his hand happily.
I would go
further in
narrative, but I
remembered
Cade may want
to check out
the gates
again. It's up
to him. If not,
I'll summarize
the day and
move us along
to nightfall.
While the companions were eating a quiet breakfast and watching the goings-on, the twins came down, Summer first of course.
She stopped by the table for a moment and took one of Sol Hawk's morning rolls with an impish grin that was both a question of "can I?" and a tease
of "say something." She took a bite as Autumn came up behind her. Korlaeth caught the dark-haired one looking at him, and she quickly scowled and
sighed, looking away. She was not dressed as she was the night before, opting instead to leave her traveller's cloak off. Except for her hands and face
and part of her neck, all of her pale skin was covered in a tight underleather outfit. The leather armor she wore was a soft, supple kind, fitting tightly
to her slight form. Around her waist was a row of daggers, and across her back was some sort of stringed instrument.
Summer explained that she had talked Autumn into performing tonight for the innkeeper, as a way of helping bring in business. They were going to
take care of some business in town, post some parchment fliers about the performance, then be back a couple of hours before sunset.
With a twinkle in her eye, the blonde warrior told everyone that they did not want to miss this performance. "Oh, she might be abrasive when she
speaks, but when she sings, it's satiny smooth and quite relaxing. Some would say her voice is quite sensual."
Autumn cleared her throat and bumped Summer's back then. Summer smiled devilishly and looked at Korlaeth, then excused herself.
***
Half a night's sleep at Sol Hawk's near-divine healing powers had worked wonders on Arcadian's physical self. Emotionally, he was drained. Arcadian
said nothing to the others of his fight with the Sharnazim and when they were questioned by more Sharnazim he had let others do the talking.
Arcadian had cleaned himself up before collapsing upon the bed in his replacement room. The only sign of what had transpired the night before was a
slight limping in his step.
The Vakeros chose to sit next to Sol Hawk, and slowly ate his meal in silence. His thoughts drifted to the Sharnazim at the gate. He dwelled on the
thought of searching for him but quickly decided against it. Though the Sharnazim this morn had seemed gratious enough they would probably have
their eyes on the group now.
And if they discovered that there were two banou amoung them... Even an un-corrupt Sharn might not be hospitable. It was best that they did not
draw too much attention to themselves.
Arcadian's hands shook as he tried to force down the warm food.
What have I become?
Though many of his companions had taken great interest in the strange twins Arcadian had not said a word to either of them. Even now he spoke to
them not a word.
A performance? Do you not remember why we are here? Arcadian thought with mild frustration as he watched the enthrallment of his fellows.
Why does Egoliah bother with armies? Strong men? Venomous snakes and the such? All Egoliah would have to do is send one beautiful, female
assassin and we would follow her bossom straight to a poisoned khanjar.
***
Simyn ate with good appetite. He was beginning to get frustrated. So far they had not dug up any clues to the whereabouts of Ameesha and their
enemies. Were they still in Teph? As the companions ate Simyn whispered silently:
"How about solving this problem head on? We have killed the Overlord and since Egoliah is Tava'ryn's brother, Egoliah should probably be found in the
Overlord's palace. If he's not there, there might be clues to his whereabouts. On the other side entering the palace is probably suicide, but after
evading the whole Vassagonian army I feel invincible." The sage grinned. This was still a grand adventure to him.
***
"That woman I told you of, the one who came to my room and warned us of the bandits. She could help us." Arcadian added thoughtfully.
"But...I do not know how to contact her. She said that she would contact me but she did not say when."
***
Their second day in Teph was dawning, and everyone was out to find answers without drawing attention to themselves. Since they had the means to
enter Third City, everyone left after breakfast to head to that zone of town and see what they could find out.
The day passed uneventfully for most. With the sun on its downward fall back toward the horizon, everyone returned to the inn and cleaned
Rules,
Rulings
themselves before joining in a meal at sunset. The Green Oasis was crowded, as apparently the sisters' work at drawing in business was successful.
There was still no sign of them, however.
The group of seven discussed what they had seen and heard that day:
Sir Victor had accompanied Sol Hawk to the snake competition. It was a cacophanous event held in a crowded, malodorous room--not exactly the type
of place one would envision turning venomous snakes loose to fight. Initially, the duo were jeered and ridiculed for wanting to participate, but when
Sol Hawk introduced his first cobra into the ring with a Dahir stone serpent, everyone was amazed that the stone serpent--a highly aggressive and
combative snake by nature--merely seemed distracted and never saw the winning strike coming. Sol Hawk expected this, of course. Animal Kinship
had its perks in manipulating events like this.
In fact, Sol Hawk never needed to produce his second cobra, and ended up trading it during an elimination round to a man who told them that the
Kharesh-Zhadi were headed by one of the head political figures in Teph, a man who helped preside over and officiate the Lords' meetings that took
place in Second City. This man gave Sol Hawk a forged document that would allow entry into Second City if they used the gate found near the temples
on the other side of the city.
Net result:
Forged
document for a
group of holy
petitioners to
enter Second
City, 300GC,
and info
Sir Victor showed patience and tolerance unparalled as he stayed and stoically watched everything in the press of people. This was not his type of
ideal day, but he knew that although Sol Hawk would be good at getting close to the people and learning information, if worse came to worse he
would need someone at his side in a fight.
Eventually, the knight suggested to Sol Hawk that they leave, for the day was drawing to a close. Sol Hawk sold his snake in the quarterfinal round for
300GC, then took his winnings of over 1000GC and tossed them into the air as he left. The resultant chaos somehow brought a warm feeling to his
heart, as he watched everyone scramble for the generous showering of finance he gave them.
Valestar and Simyn spent the day visiting the numerous guilds, asking casually but discretely about the political situation in the city and the region.
They learned many things they already knew, for rumors had started spreading. They heard of the Anari/Talon conflict, and of how Vassagonia had to
intervene to keep matters from spreading into Teph (nice spin on that one), and of how the Zakhan condoned all of this in the name of expansion.
Others told them of numerous attempts by Cloeasia at peace, and of counterattempts by Vassagonia to buy out the services of the Talons. They even
learned the history of the Talons, and how the Rashuurites used to be the main trading clan-caravan on the Dry Main. After a failed assassination
attempt on Rashuur one night, due largely in part to the Cloeasian prince at the time, a pact of gratitude for fifteen generations (commonly held to be
40 years) was struck. At that point, the head of the clan would negotiate another deal with the prince of the ruling family.
And therein was the sticky part, for Abdullah had no offspring to negotiate this treaty.
It was during this rather lengthy discussion of history that Valestar became bored and began to roam about the current guildhall they were in--the
guild of herbalists. He had seen a guildsman use a small bellows device to mist a rather nondescript purplish plant a couple of times so far. More
curious about plants of the present than politics of the past, he walked over and began looking at it.
When the guild-head saw this, he abruptly ended his conversation with Simyn and ran shrieking over toward Valestar, who nearly swung his Wizard
Staff into the man. "Do not touch! Do not touch!"
He interposed himself between Valestar and the plant. "It is unique," he said in way of explanation.
Simyn interceded and spoke before Valestar did, probably a wise thing. "How so?"
Net result: Lots
of history and
political info,
150GC for a
bundle of Oede
and Laumspur
leaves (enough
for a couple of
potion
attempts).
The guild-head turned and lifted it in cradled hands like a newborn infant. "It is a cross between Laumspur and Oede. We have tried for seventeen
years to get the Oede, which blooms annually if at all, to cross-pollenate. Our theory that the two healing plants could be combined was right!"
When the alchemy-minded Valestar asked about some samples to use in potions, the guild-head looked as if the man had just asked to draw-andquarter someone on the spot. "Absolutely not!"
He thought a moment. "Although I can sell you leaves from both progenitor plants if you like."
Arcadian, Korlaeth, and Hawkeye made up the last group that entered Third City. Although, shortly after entering, Korlaeth pulled his usual "I'll be
back sometime" routine and left the other two alone. Hawkeye was glad that he didn't have to tag along from afar this time, yet Arcadian was
suspicious of exactly what Korlaeth was up to, especially considering the level of conversation from the night before.
The two quickly found Third City to be too refined and exclusive, almost bland and boring. They left and returned to the bustling area filled with
merchants in Main City. Though their main goal was to find Ameesha, the two took a few hours of relaxation in visiting the myriad shops, and walking
around the vendor tents in the open bazaar area. Truly Teph was a place where you could find anything you wanted and/or didn't need. In this part of
town, the opulence of Vassagonia was traded for variety and mercantilism. Hawkers and callers tried to gather their business, and at last, Arcadian
relented when he recognized what one was selling. Just in case he didn't follow the conversation too well, he asked Hawkeye to come with him.
Net result: pipe
and tobacco
(40 GC),
much-needed
relaxation
Inside the store were all manner of sun-cured leaves, hanging around and giving the entire shop a rich smell. Arcadian smiled. This was the finest
tobacco shop he had ever seen. After a couple of minutes of talk, the owner recognized that Arcadian was versed enough to know what he sought. He
purchased a polished horn pipe and a couple of pouches of Dessi-grown vanakru, known to give a calming effect while releasing a sweet earthy
aroma. The owner threw in a couple of leaves of vanakru for later usage, in addition to a small pouch of enigreese--just a tiny sample. Arcadian was
impressed. This was the cut could only be found south of the Tentarias.
After more looking around, the two decided to return to the Green Oasis early and discuss plans for the night and how to find Egoliah.
Korlaeth took a circuitous route to reach Satha's guild. He entered and asked to speak to Satha, but the guildsman shook his head. "Satha left in the
small hours. He said he would return by morning, but he has not yet."
This bothered Korlaeth. Keron were known to do things that others wouldn't understand, and on false pretenses, but Satha would have no reason to
say he'd be back and then not show up. Cautiously, Korlaeth asked around other guilds and small workshops. No one knew a thing. Nothing out of the
ordinary. A couple of well-placed (and lucky) questions netted him a meeting with one of the Second City guards, who told him that someone
matching Satha's description had entered upon invitation last night during FirstWatch. Between midnight and sunrise
Net result:
nothing except
questions,
knowledge that
Second City
entry is tough
Everyone can
quickly hash
around what
they've
learned, what
they want to
do, etc. Cade,
contents of
letter in PM. I'll
try to post
again tonight
with part two
of this.
Korlaeth pressed for an allowance to enter Second City to find his friend, but the guard made it quite clear that anyone found in Second City without
paperwork was taken to jail. And anyone on watch during an unauthorized entry--at all gates--was publically caned. No, there would be no entry
without high-level paperwork or invitation.
Realizing the dead end was truly the stopping point in his investigation, Korlaeth decided to go visit al-Akra'min in hopes of seeing what the man had
learned ahead of time. That guild was closed for the day, which Korlaeth found odd. He continuously pounded on the door until an irritated guild
member arrived. She asked what he wanted, and he asked to speak with al-Akra'min.
"He is not here. He left early last night and has not returned." She then slammed the door shut and made sure the locking braces and chains made a
lot of noise. Korlaeth understood her point.
He left slowly, pondering what this all could mean.
---------As everyone sat talking about the day, the Innkeeper moved around the bar and announced that his guest from the far reaches of the north would
now perform. Autumn walked out, dressed in a purple-tinged leather outfit and climbed onto a stool that was set onto a makeshift stage (a large flat
wooden platform). The servants around the room doused candles and lanterns, using hooded beacon lanterns to throw light upon her as she played
the opening cords on her string-instrument.
The Innkeeper walked up to Arcadian and handed him a folded parchment. "From some woman here earlier today," he whispered.
Rules, Rulings
The grizzled Vassagonian entered the Green Oasis Inn just as Autumn began singing. He gazed around the room, his single eye
bouncing from person to person until he saw the Vakeros.
He walked across the haze of smoke hanging in the room and quietly pulled up a chair and sat to Korlaeth's left, at the corner of
the table. He placed something heavy, wrapped in cloth, on the table and laid his arm across it. His eye found the Kai that
Korlaeth had been with, and he gave the slightest of nods in way of salutation.
al-Akra-min speaks--------------------Æ
Leaning close to Korlaeth, he patted the bundle. "We must talk about more things than just the one you seek."
***
Summer padded lightly down the stairs, dressed as she always was in her black leather armor. Even in the darkness, her
presence drew attention, and this was not missed by Autumn, who opened her eyes and watched while she sang.
The blonde warrior pulled up a short stool and sat down between Sol Hawk and Arcadian. She regarded the stern-faced man next
to Korlaeth and then leaned close to the Kai.
"Isn't her voice wonderful?" she whispered softly. Sol Hawk noticed the scent she had on smelled like North Sommerlund
hyacinth. She looked at Arcadian before Sol Hawk could answer, noticing that he was brooding again. She pouted ever so slightly
and shrugged, pulling her hair up into a ponytail as she settled in.
***
Korlaeth had just settled in to listen to Autumn sing while pondering the events of the day and deciding how best to share them
when Al'Akramin sat down next to him. He regarded the craftmaster with surprise.
Perception check is 20 to make
sure no one is paying us undue
attention. Sense Motive of 9 on
Summer.
By the way did we buy that
marvelous hybrid plant? If Valestar
would not. I would like to buy it just
for the chance of owning such a
marvelous creation. It would look
swell in my library (which I don't
have yet)
You were just able to get some
of the leaves of the parent plants for
use in potions, etc. The hybrid plant
is far too expensive, due to rarity
and length of time it took to create
it.
"What can you..." he trailed off as Summer sat down, smiling at her while trying once again to assess her motives. Autumn had
certainly been a help in last night's fight, but perhaps the same gate guard had sent the sisters to this inn as well. Summer had
certainly latched on to them quickly, but perhaps she found kindred spirits. Of course, Sol, as usual, had already revealed much
to the blonde-haired woman. He let his eyes slide around the room, ensuring everyone was watching Autumn sing. He gave
Autumn an encouraging smile and finally looked at Al'Akramin.
"It is good to see you." Korlaeth spoke now in North Speak (That is if Al'Akramin speaks it, which I can't remember if he does, or
if I would know if he does.) so that there would be less chance of unwanted ears understanding, "How do things stand?"
***
As they gathered Simyn recited what they had learnt about the politics of the region. He especially mentioned the problems
Cloeasia was facing. Without the Talons of Rashuur how would the Zultanate stop the expansion plans of Vassagonia?
"We did not learn anything interesting about the matter at hand though. I guess the expanding Vassagonian Empire can be a
problem for Sommerlund and Durenor though. As for my own home-country we probably need not worry about desert warriors in
the streets of Varetta. We have enough problems already that we can't handle for that matter."
***
Arcadian sat and watched the performance with a mild interest. After everything had gone underway he took the letter which he
had received and passed it to Korlaeth. The Vakeros read the contents and passed it on until all their group had looked at its
contents.
Quote:
My thanks for your help. Word spreads fast among thieves and those who try to fight them. Already we have had
three inns who have joined our efforts to stand up to these criminal intrusions.
May your gods be pleased with your actions.
Kirva
Cade watched Autumn some more, but his interest was vague at best. Only when the Vassan stranger sat down next to Korlaeth
did Arcadian's interest peak. He tried to catch some of their conversation as he could.
Perception to hear conversation - 9
Sense Motive on Summer - 9
Dang my rolls suck today. lol
He caught Summer looking at him. Arcadian returned her gaze with a look of complete apathy. He did not let her know that he
distrusted her and yet at the same time did not want her to think that he had fallen in love with the rise of her breasts.
Women.
OOC: I could use some powerful
arrows - the stronger the better.
Looking for Superior or better to buy
with newfound cash. If I can only
buy a few, that's cool - but hoping to
find something good
***
The Kai Lord had lost sleep over his part in the murder of the captured Sharnazim - had the Vassan Man deserved death? Should
not an evil man be granted a second chance? Sol Hawk had often killed, but only in defense of his own life or the lives of others.
Was this so different? Sol Hawk knew that if released, the man would kill again - if not Sol Hawk and his friends, then who?
Winning the snake competition and obtaining the forged documents for second city access had elevated Sol Hawk's mood, as did
the message that Arcadian later produced. He had displayed his usual optimistic face all morning and all day, but now upon
taking a meal with friends and seeing first-hand that their efforts had been noticed and appreciated by Vassans in need made
him feel that the deed they'd done, though ugly, was for justice and for those who were not able to help themselves against
predators. The right action was not always the easy action - he should only have known this by now. He made a mental note to
meditate on this truth at a later time.
Sol Hawk was clearly pleased to see Summer and Autumn here at the inn and Autumn's singing was beautiful in the way a starlit
twilight is. He spoke freely with Summer and described his good fortune in the Snake Competition - pleased to have a topic of
conversation that did not directly touch upon their mission. It was interesting that the girls were still here however after the
passage of another full day. He thought that they, like him and his group, might have been better off lodging far from this place
considering the attack of last night. If they only had a contact in town who could put them up - ah, this would be better and
might provide them the lower profile they would need while they refined a plan.
All PCs are included in all of Sol
Hawk's telepathic conversations note that anyone can respond
telepathically for free
Being a Kai Lord has many advantages and one of them would be the ability to speak telepathically even while eating and
drinking. This Sol Hawk did - he and his friends could be here and discuss all their plans in full with no chance for eavesdropping.
Hawkeye and Korlaeth, what of the man you met? Do you think he might provide us a place to stay this night? He sounded to be
no friend of the Overlord, and if he knows Korlaeth's contact, I'd say he's the closest friend we have in this town. For that
matter, Korlaeth, what about your contact here? Would he be able to help us with lodging that is somewhat more... discreet?
Rules, Rulings
OOC: -10 WP for substantial telepathy
Note - Priman Kenning detects whether drink is safe
Dangerous Whispers detects most dangerous thing w/in 30 feet
The most dangerous thing is a highly poison-laden dagger in the
bundle...but the bundle is far too large.
Ah - of course Sol Hawk relays the information about the poisoned
dagger telepathically to Korlaeth and the others. KL, also let me know if
Sol Hawk found the arrows mentioned earlier on his way back from the
competition
18
I guess that might call for a Gather Information Roll:
Here's a perception roll to see what else is revealed about the man - esp
why the bundle should be so large. More weapons? Just cloth?
Perception: 15
The man is intent on Korlaeth. He has only given a passing glance
to each of you in one sweeping gaze. He could not care less about the
singing that's going on. Also, you'd guess from the thud that the bundle
makes when it is set down that there is something heavy in it. It's about
the size of a human leg bone (don't read anything into that).
And yes, you found the arrows. 1.5 GC apiece, regular broadheads.
Arcadian, I have to say I am surprised but also pleased at the message you have received. If
three hotels are under the protection of this group, they may have others in their network
that can help us get close to Ameesha. We do need friends badly. We may find we've no
choice but to speak again with her and show our goodwill. If they're friends, we may have no
better time than now to ask a favour. If they are enemies, they would have already betrayed
us to Egoliah or the Sharnazim and they've done neither. Very promising things may come.
Valestar and Simyn, that's quite a tale regarding the Loedespur Plant. Are those real leaves
from the parent plants? I've never before heard of the like. And what do you think of our lady
friends? I'm feeling more at home in Vassagonia than I ever did in Anari. Why, only a day
here and look how many friends we've made.
Then Sol Hawk's interest wandered as al-Akra'min entered the room and addressed Korlaeth.
***
"The man who you seek has learned of your involvement. He is moving quietly--yet quickly-against you, and I would not advise staying here after tonight." He fixed his one good eye on
Korlaeth. "He has word that it was you who killed his brother, the Overlord, and therefore he
seeks Vassagonian vengeance."
His eye turned to Hawkeye then. "There is a complication which may interest you."
Unwrapping the bundle carefully, he eased out a black studded mace and placed it on the
table between Simyn and Korlaeth. Sir Victor noted it has excellent craftsmanship, even in
the low light of the room. al-Akra'min leaned forward across his hand and the bundle, placing
it near the two Kai, who sat on opposite sides of the table.
"This weapon belongs to one of your kind, who has been captured by the local town Overlord
for espionage and attempted assassination. She is slated to be executed within a couple of
days."
He let this news sink in as he leaned back and gathered up the bundle into his lap. He looked
at Korlaeth solemnly. "It gets worse. Your friend from the potter's guild in Third City has been
seized, and is being held upon suspicision of being a Dessi spy.
"The torture that ensued yesterday after the seizure has led your enemy to your doorstep, so
to speak. Egoliah...knows everything."
***
Concentration 15-----------------------------------------------------Æ
As the Black Mace hit the table, Sol Hawk tried to remember if he knew a female Kai to whom
it might belong...
The next questions to al-Akra'min were addressed to al-Akra'min telepathically - it was
certainly not wise to speak openly in this place.
Sense Motive on al-Akra'min 18------------------------------------Æ
Thank you, friend, for delivering this news to us. You risk much to bring this news to us here.
Why do you help us, and what other assistance are you prepared to provide? It seems that
we have the same enemy - but let us hear more regarding how you have come to know what
Egoliah now knows. What you have stated, surely, cannot be anything approaching common
knowledge. And we would like to know the rest of the story concerning our sister.
Sol Hawk considered the fine mace. How did al-Akra'min know so much? Who was this man?
The female Kai of whom he had spoken might have been sent here by the other Kai Masters
to investigate what was now becoming a very dangerous situation. If she had been spying,
what had she seen that deserved death? Sol Hawk nodded toward Hawkeye who was also
clearly astonished and eager to learn more. If al-Akra'min knew all of this, he might surely
know about the whereabouts of Ameesha as well. And they would need this information now especially that Egoliah knew it all.
OOC: That's right, sixth blatant reference so far to the title of the
game. Ah yes, there's one for the summary on the back cover...
Once the others had given their thoughts, Sol Hawk finally intoned to al-Akra'min, The rest of
what we must say cannot be said here. If we can possibly impose upon your benevolence, we
would be pleased if you could provide us a safe and private place to stay this night where we
can speak with you about Egoliah. That you have come to us with ths news, and that you are
a trusted friend of Korlaeth's shows us that we may find in each other some common ground
regarding the current situation. Whatever words we might share with you in private I feel will
be breath well-spent. For it is said here, as it is in my own homeland, that the enemy of my
enemy is my friend.
The following post will backtrack just a bit to weave everything
together seamlessly.
Korlaeth checked around as al-Akra'min sat and began to speak. No one seemed to care
about them. If anyone was looking in their direction, it was toward the ever-present
distraction that Summer presented. The Keron couldn't get a good read on what her
intentions were. She had taken a liking to Sol Hawk for some reason. . . .
Arcadian was too far away from Korlaeth and his Vassagonian guest to hear anything or
make out any of the words being said. Autumn began to walk around the room while she
sang a ballad of forbidden love, making it harder to concentrate on what was happening at
the other end of the table.
The castle was awash with the full moon's light,
But they didn't care who would see,
As they ran hand in hand through the pale courtyard,
Against their king's decree.
For she didn't love the king near as much as the man,
Who looked close in her eyes.
Then the silence of the night fell away with a shout,
As the king beheld her lies.
Something about that song nagged at Arcadian's mind, distracting him from his scrutiny of
Summer. It brought back too many related memories about a woman with another man,
about his beloved Kamilah and. . .
He had had enough. al-Akra'min pushed a large black mace between the two Kai, but
Rules, Rulings
Act VIa, Conclusion – Flying Near the
Web
Commentary
Arcadian didn't care much anymore. He grabbed his tankard and
downed it in one gulp, trying as hard as he could to block out
Autumn's now-irritating voice, for she now was clearly meandering
this direction.
Sol Hawk made sure his drink was safe while speaking to
everyone's mind.
Hawkeye said little in reply, leaving most of the information to
Korlaeth. The Keron was unused to telepathy, and did not know
howlong it would last. He was terse: He's harsh and direct, but I
think he's going to be able to help. We need all we can get.
Egoliah is elusive.
Yeah, another inn would probably be a good idea. Perhaps hole up
in Third City.
From Arcadian: Not now, Sol Hawk.
Simyn and Valestar spoke freely about the plant, and Valestar
mused his bad feelings about the twins. There was just something
about them that was elusive, dodgy. Through distraction and
diversion, they always manipulated conversations.
Sol Hawk then extended his Kai senses around the room due to
Valestar's mistrust of the two. To his dismay, he learned that the
most deadly item in the room was in the possession of this oneeyed bowyer Korlaeth knew. Before Sol Hawk could send a
warning, the man had opened the bundle!
He withdrew the mace and placed it on the table. Sol Hawk
recognized the craftsmanship. It almost looked Kai-forged. There
were many Kai, but he seemed to recall one who was always in
Vassagonia for some reason or another. He couldn't quite place
her name, though.
He and Hawkeye shared glances at the mention of a Kai being
held hostage in town. Despite all other missions, their kinsmen
deserved attention, especially in such dire circumstances.
Sol Hawk then saw al-Akra'min gather up the bundle. Everyone
else was paying attention to either Autumn, who had moved
almost right behind Hawkeye with her wandering melody, or the
mace, or their meals. Most avoided gazing at al-Akra'min...there
was just something about him.
And that was why Sol Hawk decided to determine what he was
really doing here, why he was helping.
The sole eye fixed intently upon Sol Hawk, and the bowyer spoke
loud enough for everyone at the table to hear.
"Your Kai friend down there is speaking to me. I will answer so
that all may hear. From the moment you entered Teph, you have
been watched. In a land known for wealth, buying spies and
offering rewards for information is commonplace. Bounty hunters
have been dispatched to locate you. Overlords desire your heads
as trophies of their power and right to take. . ."
He sighed, lips drawn tight, then continued. "To take Tava'ryn's
place. No place you relocate to will be safe. The longer you stay
here, the more danger you are in.
"And you have overstayed your welcome, banou," he said, shifting
his gaze to Korlaeth with the last word.
Korlaeth: -8 EP, critical hit (assassin class
feature), combination poison Fortitude
save:
His hand leapt from his lap to Korlaeth's chest in the blink of an
eye, and it appeared to everyone that he had merely pounded the
Vakeros on the ribs with the bottom of his fist.
DC = 17/22 Roll two Fort saves for initial
damage, then two more for secondary
damage.
"For the blood of my brother!" he shouted, withdrawing his hand
and leaving the poisoned blade embedded in Korlaeth's ribs. alAkra'min tossed the fabric that had been wrapped around the
mace into the air, covering his escape as he slid his chair back
from the table.
The 17 DC is for paralysis. The 22 DC is for
2d4 Con damage. If you fail any DC, you
suffer the effects. Remember that Con
damage removes EP based on how far it
drops. (-1 EP per level per 2 points of Con
damage)
You're also bleeding at the rate of -1
EP/round until someone performs a
successful Heal check or uses medicinal
herbs on you. DC12 stops the bleeding,
DC17 will cure the paralysis, DC22 will
stabilize you but not remove the Con loss.
Patrons leaped from their tables in surprise as the shout. Autumn
stopped playing. Summer leaned forward quickly and grabbed the
mace. When Sol Hawk met her gaze, the alluring smile fell away
as a mask, revealing a scowl of hatred. "Die Kai."
A wave of intense pain slammed into Sol Hawk's psychic defenses.
He had never felt power wrenching at his mind like this. Summer
pulled the mace to her possession and stood with it at the ready.
Sol Hawk: -13 WP
Autumn dropped her instrument and screamed like a feral beast,
startling Hawkeye. He himself felt a ripple of animosity across his
mind, and as he turned to look at Autumn, he saw her features
changing. Teeth elongated into fangs, fingers tapered into talons.
She appeared to be half-human, half-elix. People near her cried
out in terror, shouting about the demoness and backing away.
Hawkeye: -7 WP
Arcadian cursed outwardly; Sir Victor inwardly. Simyn looked
around in disbelief and confusion. Valestar stood and tapped his
staff on the floor, causing the tip to glow in preparation. "I told
you so!"
On the combat map: P is patron, I is innkeeper,
each square is 5'x5', tables are shown, stairs are
in lower left corner, doors are yellow, windows are
light blue.
Valestar, if you can't see the color distinctions, let
me know and I'll give you a coordinate list of
windows and doors.
---------al-Akra'min is a surname (see the Vassagonian
research thread).
He is a bowyer, a master archer.
And exceptional archers are called "eagle-eye"
(hence the name: Egoliah...eagle ("egol") eye
("iah"). I've waited months to explain that
name....
I'm not sure what everyone's armor class is right
now. I'll put down the damage as follows: Attack
Roll(s)/Damage per attack. For example Hit29 / 12EP.
Summer (Solar Eclipse) NAK15
AC: 18 PsyAC: 34
EP: 137/137 WP: 76/79
Immune to Mindblast
Autumn (Lunar Eclipse) NAK15
AC: 20 PsyAC: 28
EP: 83/91 WP: 87/87
Immune to Mindblast
Egoliah al-Akra'min Shz15/KZ10
AC: 22 PsyAC: none
EP: 180/180 WP: none
Yes, I'm taking an awful risk by exposing him
here, but it's part of the plot. View this how you
may: The game could end with this combat.
Or it could not. You'll see....
Been typing for 1.5 hours.....I'm going to bed now
The Battle at the Green Oasis – beginning of Round 1
Rules, Rulings
Okay. Initiative: 14, taking a 5-foot step
to C11 to come in front of that one-eyed jerk.
Fighting defensively increasing my AC by 3
(since I got 5 levels of Acrobatics, thus giving
me an extra +1 in AC). Getting a total of 27 on
my attack roll doing 5 points of damage. I
could really like an enchanted rapier.
ROUND 1
As Korlaeth fell, a sharp-pointed rapier left a scabbard. Furious of the dastardly deed, Simyn took a step and attacked
the sharnazim. Knowing that he was at an disadvantage fighting without his poignard that still was sheathed, the sage
decided to be defensive thus trying out the powers of the unknown assailant.
***
Okay, a lot to catch up on here. First
things first, I did buy some of the Oede hybrid.
Who wouldn't, for so cheap?
I want to get creative with this battle. I'd like
to spend more willpower to call upon a greater
fire spirit. I know its not neccesarily in the rule
book, but I'd like to attempt to summon a fire
spirit that will manifest a physical form and
attack Egoliah for me as I command, like a
golem. If this takes willpower per round to
maintain, or a special roll, that's fine with me
(hey, maybe I've found another use for
concentration!). Could this be allowable?
Valestar had been quiet and introspective since the night attack. Though he had accompanied Simyn the next day and
the two had accomplished much (including the acquisition of some leaves of the wondrous oede hybrid), Valestar had
participated little in the meetings that had followed.
This adventure did not feel like it belonged to him. He was happy to tag along, but more and more his thoughts turned
to Dessi, to home. His demons had been conquered. Now it was time to return, to see Valestire. Now he could begin
to right that wrong. He still hadn't told Simyn the full story. He had intended to, and then have the sage assist him
with his potions (for the truth serum would require him to tell the story), but the time had not yet come.
Valestar had remained suspicious of everyone he had come into contact with the next day. The strange dessert man,
the twins, even the waitress who brought his food. Again he mused on how this adventure did not feel like his own.
The Kai Lords defenitely were in charge of the affair, and they seemed to be doing a good job of it. Valestar would
lend his powers for as long as they needed him, but he'd rather stay out of the decision making process. He had
nothing more than scholarly interest in politics, and now he was in the midst of them. His best course of action, he
decided, was to be suspicious of everything and set on fire anything that attacked them.
So, when the desert man stabbed Korlaeth, Valestar reacted accordingly.
Rules, Rulings
None of the Loedespur was sold...only the parent leaves.
Together, they would be almost as powerful. Larger fire spirit? No.
Controlling it? Yes. Concentration check DC15 to choose its target.
Korlaeth looked in surprise and pain as his contact plunged a dagger into his chest. He would
have words with the Keron school for sure. When he discovered that the poisoned dagger was
still in him, Korlaeth reached to pull it out and plunge it into its owner, but his arms refused to
respond. All he could do was give a look of disgust to the thing that had been Autumn.
***
Initiative: 21
Attack Roll: 18
Damage Roll: 14
Move Action: Draw Blue-steel Sword
Standard Action: Attack Action
The moment Arcadian had been waiting for. He ignored the tankard of ale in front of him, stood
and delivered an astonishing blow to Summer, who had just grabbed the mace.
The blue-steel sword was slicing across her leather armor in a flash, cobalt-fire licking from its
cold, hard steel.
"Come on!" Arcadian taunted to the mace-wielding warrioress.
We are so screwed.
What I wouldn't give for a Force Point or two right
now...although I guess Character Points would be more appropriate,
or action Points, if that's the game you play.
Well, it seems I've inherited the curse of dramatically inappropriate
dice. Either that, or all my good karma was used up on killing
Overlord Tava'ryn. So much for sticking Egoliah with his own dagger.
Passed Concentration check with 24
Arcadian's thoughts turned to Korlaeth. Of the fellowship, he was the farthest away from the
Dessi-born. Hopefully someone would get to him in time. Until then, Cade could do nothing but
place his attention upon 'Summer'.
***
If there was one thing Valestar had been known for at the academy, it was for his ability to block
out everything around him and enter a state of intense concentration. He entered such a state
now, ignoring Korlaeth's plight, Autumn's bizarre transformation, the screams of the patrons,
and the sound of swords leaving their sheathes. He called upon his inner energies, focusing
them, transposing his will upon the area around him, reaching out and seeking for the
elementals...
... before long he found a suitable one.
***
Before tying up my post, KL - did Summer definitely hit me w/
that Psychic Attack? In my defense, a few things: first, since I am
never surprised (Hunting Tier V) I should have up my instinctive
shield. Sol Hawk was speaking freely with Summer, but note that he
never included her in the Psychic Telepathy - showing he wasn't
ready to trust her completely. And of course, I have a healthy
psychic AC plus MindShield V. Let me know if she still hits me for 13
WP through all these defenses - just curious!
Initiative: 12
AC: 10
Move action: draw broadsword
Move action: Move to C13 (I can move 30', I think that's enough,
especially since Simyn moves before me).
The day had been pretty uneventful as far as the Ruanese was concerned. Oh, sure, the duelling
snakes competition had been quite something to see, and the crowd's reaction when Sol had
thrown 1000 crowns in the air was hectic, even if it was to be expected. Sir Victor had sighed
even as he muttered to Sol "We could have used those, you know. Room and board isn't free in
this country."
Even as the evening approached and they settled in to listen to Automn's singing, it hadn't felt
like a dangerous day, a day where friends could die with poisoned daggers stuck in their ribs, for
example. Things changed when a one-eyed stranger entered the room and walked to their table.
Apparently he wasn't unkown to Korlaeth, for the stranger started talking to him and laid a
bundle upon the table. Wrapped in the cloth was a well-crafted mace, which apparently belonged
to a Kai Lord spy who had been caught and was soon to be executed. Things took a turn for the
worse, when all of a sudden, screams of "Die, Kai!" erupted from the lips of the two ladies, the
stranger stabbed Korlaeth, and all hell broke loose. The one-eyed man threw the cloth from the
bundle into their way and started for the door.
"Cowards and traitors! We shouldn't have expected anything less in this country." said the knight
as he kicked back his chair and drew his massive broadsword, intent on the fleeing assassin. He
started after him, in the hopes of stopping his escape by interposing his massive frame between
him and the door and making him atone for his crime.
Q: did Summer definitely hit me w/ that Psychic Attack?
A: Most assuredly.
Q: In my defense, a few things: first, since I am never surprised
(Hunting Tier V)
A: Kai-Bane Tier V + Ambush Tier V = Kai can be surprised or flatfooted
Q: I should have up my instinctive shield.
A: Damage was to WP. If no shield had been up, damage would
have been EP. Shielding allows WP to serve as a buffer to actual
physical damage.
***
Arcadian stood and sprang onto the table, drawing blue-steel and making a daring leap from the
middle of the table in an attempt to cleave Egoliah in half. He missed by a second, coming face
to face with the mastermind behind all this suffering of nations.
Hawkeye stood at the same instant, pulling his sword free of its sheath and slicing open
Autumn's shoulder. Her visage was frightening, to say the least. He sent out his mind to attack,
but nothing happened as her shielding blocked it easily.
Q: And of course, I have a healthy psychic AC plus MindShield V.
A: Summer's PsyAtk = d20 + 15 (character level) + 5 (Cha bonus),
so she'll hit you 65% of the time for 2d6+6 damage.
She let out a shriek of fury and clawed at the Kai like a savage animal, then leapt at him with
bared fangs. Both sets of talons raked across hit face and neck, and she bit deep into his
shoulder, shaking her head as she pulled free and spit out a gobbet of blood. Again he felt the
psychic equivalent of her physical attacks pull at his mind, unraveling the defense he had in
place. Hit 29/33/19 , Damage 4/4/3 (60/71 EP), PsyAtk 23 , Damage 9 (12/30 WP)
At least she focuses on one target. Autumn is just vicious. And alAkra'min is the ultimate mastermind, who is unafraid to pay with his
own blood if he ultimately gets a better return in someone else's
blood.
With speed and grace, Simyn pulled his weapon free and moved to stand next to Cade. The
rapier punctured Egoliah's lower arm, but the assassin jerked loose and reached inside his garb
to produce...a brass whistle. With a cruel smile, he took a deep breath and blew, filling the room
with a shrill sound as patrons scattered out windows and doors.
Time for the whistle....
The Ruanese knight moved past Simyn and Egoliah as he blew the whistle. The muscular man
might not be encased in armor, but he was more than prepared to unleash his might with a
blade. He took up position behind Egoliah, who seemed not to care.
Uh oh - these are the Kai Killers, aren't they? Yah!
PS - rolled a nat 20 on Focus - can I have all my WP back?
No, no bonus for 20 on focus.
Initiative list:
21 Arcadian/Hawkeye
15 Autumn
14 al-Akra'min/Simyn
12 Sir Victor
11 Sol Hawk
10 Valestar (rolled on my RPG software)
5 Summer
0 Korlaeth
Sol Hawk was the second member of their group to tread table, as he jumped onto the table and
rushed to kneel down and tend to Korlaeth in the chair where he sat, limp, looking at Autumn
mauling Hawkeye. The dagger free, Sol Hawk hoped against hope that he could use it against its
owner. The blade flew true and hit Egoliah in the thigh, causing the whistle-blowing to cease.
Egoliah dropped the whistle and grasped the hilt, preparing to pull it free of his leg. Damage was
d4 + craftsmanship, which is +3.
"Ne-ash! Niv otai!" (Summer! This Kai!) he shouted out as Valestar closed his eyes and called to
the fire spirits that could use the lanterns nearby as portals to this world. He visualized the path
that the spirit should take, and the lamp at the end of the bar exploded as the elemental
consumed all the oil inside and streaked in an arc to Egoliah.
The side of the man's face was hit with the searing blast, causing blisters to instantly form.
Egoliah screamed in pain and slapped the flames away with his free hand. 13 EP damage, fyi
Summer understood that Egoliah wanted this particular Kai dead. She summoned an immense
amount of psychic energy as she walked closer to him. Sol Hawk sensed her presence now that
she was allowing him to. The fear that gripped his stomach told him something dire was about to
happen. He had potentially saved Korlaeth, but what of himself?
Will DC 30 (attack roll was 28). Your shield is shattered. You
must erect it next round. -7 WP, duration of stun is 2 rounds if you
fail.
He felt the mace she had stolen crash into his spine an instant before he felt an enormous
hammer of psychic force hit him. He had never before faced such pain. -12 EP, and you are
being hit with a Stun.
"Luna! Take him!" shouted Summer.
The Battle at the Green Oasis – beginning of Round 2
Rules, Rulings
Commentary
Korlaeth, you can become active again in 2 rounds. Remember that on round
10, the poison's secondary effects will kick in. I am playing Hawkeye until the real
Hawkeye can take over.
Summer (Solar Eclipse) NAK15
AC: 18 PsyAC: 34
EP: 123/137 WP: 61/79
Immune to Mindblast
Autumn (Lunar Eclipse) NAK15
AC: 20 PsyAC: 28
EP: 77/91 WP: 83/87
Immune to Mindblast
Egoliah al-Akra'min Shz15/KZ10
AC: 22 PsyAC: none
NAKS?!?! Crumbs, I knew something was up with the two of them but
never NAKS....arrgghh what do I do? First thing's first, shield's up! Every battle
I'm in, I learn something new. Ok my plan would be to erect a psychic shield and
fully concentrate on Autumn.....two can play at that game. If KL posted before I
managed to post proper please proceed for me. Need to get some facts cleared,
before I post.
Hey KL. After I posted I changed my post to attack Summer instead. I
hadn't looked at the map yet when I posted. When I looked at the map I realized
that I couldn't use a move action to draw my sword, a move action to move to
Egoliah and still have a standard action to attack.
Anyways, you can leave it as if I attacked either way, your choice. Just let me
know before I post.
Arcadian (if you're still fighting Al-Akramin instead of Summer) and Simyn, since
I'm behind him, we all get a +2 flanking bonus to hit.
Rules, Rulings
Hit: 27, 32
Damage: 18, 13
I assumed a +2 extra strength bonus
for fighting 2-handed, it doesn't say if
the extra half strength bonus is rounded
up or down in the book. So I'm
assuming a +7 STR bonus for my
attacks.
If Al-Ak isn't moving, then neither am I,
but since he's moving before me, I don't
know if I can do both attacks! Still, this
is my intention.
I had written down notes on
everyones moves as I read their posts.
I'll revert it back to Summer, but in the
future leave me a note further in the
flow of things to let me know to go back
and reread something.
Hawkeye, your shield is instinctive. It is
what has kept you alive so far. If you
ever get stunned in psychic combat,
though, you will have to reraise it
"manually" by expending WP.
Sir Victor, Egoliah will move, but you'll
be able to 5' step and full attack.
Sol Hawk:
First rule of assassins: never use a
poison you yourself are not immune to.
First rule of fighting assassins: never
return his poisoned weapon to
him...especially this one.
Read up on Kai-Bane. Her reflexes
are faster than yours since she can
anticipate how a Kai would act. Glancing
Blow is ineffective.
KL, who is about to unleash hell
Will Save vs Stun: failed! I can take
no actions while stunned.
OOC: Glancing Blow - already posted
this, so won't retract it, but Sol Hawk
won't make the mistake again
OOC: 1 round of Stun remaining
Act VIa, Conclusion – Flying Near
the Web
ROUND 2
The knight's broadsword was an impressive weapon by
itself. Held in one hand, it almost matched the knight for
size. However, when he grasped it in both hands, it
seemed a lot smaller, like a child's wooden toy sword. An
illusion which belied it's even deadlier edge when swung by
both the man's muscled arms.
One-eyed blew a whistle even as Sir Victor flanked him,
ready to deliver his justice. In a flash of the blade, blood
appeared twice on the man after heavy blows from the
knight. However, something was happening back near the
table.
"Cade, Simyn, I think Sol is in trouble!" shouted the knight,
then thought Try to tell them something new.
The women were proving to be even deadlier then their
appearances let on, and Sol and Hawkeye were discovering
it the hard way, fast.
Sol Hawk felt the Mace coming now that Summer was
allowing him to sense her presence, and he twisted to the
side to avoid the worst of the strike (Glancing Blow failed)
but the heavy metal struck hard anyway - somehow,
Summer had anticipated the move, and then came the real
attack, a torrent of energy and pain from the female's mind
to his.
Sol Hawk held his Mindshield for as long as he could, but
then something happened which never had before Summer forced her way in and Sol Hawk's shield shattered
into shards. The shock hit his nervous system at the same
time the Mace came down, and the result was total and
complete shutdown. He could still defend himself, but the
image which had been Summer danced in a surreal world
of light and sound. He struggled to raise again his psychic
shield, but he could not find his wits - it took all of his
concentration to stay on his feet between her and Korlaeth.
Sol Hawk hoped that the healing he had given to his friend
could be enough - he hoped now that somehow Korlaeth
wouldn't die...
Sol Hawk had been named for Light Hawk, a powerful Kai
Lord who had gained such mastery over the psychic realm
that later in life he had forsaken all physical weapons. At
the end of life, that man's body had only faded and it was
said that the adept Spirit-Walked the world through the
minds of Kai and their enemies. Though Sol Hawk had not
the faculties to call up a Mindshield, he did have the
instinct remaining to call upon Light Hawk. Give me
strength, he thought to the void, Let me act and save my
friends...
Hawkeye grimaced in pain as the crazed woman tore free
of her bite. He had taken quite a beating, physically and
mentally and was as equally angered as her. He tried to
recollect himself and fend off her attacks. She was
struggling against him and proved to be more than just a
match for him. She was after all, which he soon realised, a
Naz-Adez-Konkor....Fallen Kai.
1st attack : 27
Damage : 11
2nd attack : 23, confirmed critical
Damage : 10*2 = 20
Total of 31 damage.
I just did your round 1 actions.
Round 2 is all yours, cleaver of evil.
KAI HUNTER character class
Nad-Adez Konkor (Dark-Blood Hunter)
The Kai Hunter is a contingency plan of Naar's. It hinged on the defeat of
Doom Wolf, the misguided Kai who thought himself to be one of the Kouratas-Kai mentioned in legend. Naar twisted the mind of this poor man, and
once he had slain a fellow Kai Lord, his fate was sealed. The blood that
coursed through his veins was now tainted with murder, and that tainted
blood was therefore valuable to Naar. Agents were sent by the dark god to
apprehend Doom Wolf once he stole the Lorestone of Nyxator. Most of these
were true Kai Redeemers, but a few were false ones. These imposters were
helghasts whose mission was to feign death after having injured Doom Wolf
and getting his blood on their blades. Naar gathered up these helghasts and
their weapons and transported them to the depths of Helgedad. There the
Nadziranim treated the blood and infused it into several Drakkarim that had
been “chosen” strictly for this purpose. Then the Drakkarim themselves fell
victim to the magic of the Nadziranim, whose relentless spells brought to life
within these Drakkarim the same sort of latent abilities that the Kai possessed.
But something was different. The abilities that manifested themselves were
similar in a few cases, but in other cases, they were vastly different. It was
observed that some abilities had fused, forming more powerful ones. For
instance, the disciplines of Hunting and Camouflage had merged to form one
that could best be described as Ambush. In the place of the voids left by these
merged abilities came two new ones: Fetishism* and Kai-Bane. The former
plagued these new darkspawn with an unreasonable fixation upon
meaningless objects; the latter allowed them to overcome some of the
impenetrable barriers that were generated by Kai disciplines, but only at
personal expense.
***
***
I'm guessing that KL just rolled
for me my initiative and attacks as well
thus me not getting the critical hit on
Autumn? Am I right KL? If it's so, oh
man that's such a waste...If only I can
get the first one in but doesn't matter
cause I got another one!!!! Woot, Kai is
smiling on me....keep 'em coming!!!!
Two crits in a row, if only.....
Commentary
With his off-hand, he held at her throat as he pushed his
knee upwards, trying to form a wedge between them. He
took a swipe at her head (Damage : 11) with the hilt of his
sword, tearing a deep gash on her forehead and dazing
her. Seeing his chance to break free, he jerked his knee
outwards hard, almost like kicking her away from him. She
was thrown away from him, and hurriedly stood up to face
him. But she wasn't fast enough.
Sensing a surge of strength and renewed determination
returning to him, Hawkeye leapt to his feet and swung in a
low-rising arc towards her chest but she managed to evade
the deadly swing by twisting her body sideways. In that
instant, the young Kai Lord changed his arc mid-swing and
brought his blade down in the same swing and caught her
hard and deep on her shoulder. Sounds of bone breaking
(Damage : 20, critical) were heard and blood spurted out
as Autumn screamed in pain, surprised at the speed and
accuracy of the attack which Hawkeye just delivered. The
young Kai wasn't about to lower his guard, he now knew
what they were capable of and prepared himself for her
next onslaught.
***
Arcadian watched as Sol Hawk faltered, stunned by the
psychic blow from the deadly woman. These warrioresses
possesed an arcane hatred for the Kai in perticular. Could
they be the infamous Kai Hunters? The Naz-Adez-Konkor?
*(Note: In this usage, a "fetish" has no sexual connotations or ties. It refers to
an ordinary object to which an unnatural attachment is shown.)
Thus was born a creature finally capable of matching a Kai one-to-one. They
were the Kai Hunters, named “Nad-Adez Konkor” after the tainted blood
used to make them. Since very little blood was harvested from Doom Wolf
before he was captured and exiled through the Shadow Gate of Toran, the
number of Kai Hunters is very rare. At the time of their creation,
there was only one Kai Hunter for every hundred or so Kai. Naar released
these Nad-A’kor into Magnamund, and he is waiting for one of the Kai
Hunters to excel and master all the Dark Disciplines. Once that Kai Hunter
has proven himself, Naar plans to send him through the Shadow Gate to
gather more blood from Doom Wolf—using whatever means possible.
The ultimate achievement would be to capture the fallen Kai, imprison him,
and bleed him weekly to create legions of Nad-Adez Konkor for the Second
Black Muster.
The Kai Lords themselves also have plans for Doom Wolf, most of which
involve finding him and locking him in safety deep below the Kai Monastery
in the dungeons, safely kept away from Naar's meddling. They learned firsthand of what the Dark One had created one night when a Kai Hunter slipped
into the monastery and assassinated over a half-dozen elders. After
consulting the Brotherhood and Elder Magi, it was decided that it was better
to have Doom Wolf back in Magnamund, guarded by hundreds of Kai, than
to have him roaming freely about where Naar’s agents could find him.
Adventures: More valuable than the helghasts stationed throughout all of
Magnamund, the Kai Hunters are valued for their ability to detect the Kai,
stalk them, and execute them. Of the original dozen Nad-A'kor, there are only
five remaining, though. The chances of two of them meeting are exceedingly
rare, now that their numbers have fallen off. Given the tendency of more
powerful darkspawn to battle for dominance, it is likely that two Kai
Hunters happening upon each another would result in a grisly demise for one
of them.
Note: According to the LWRPG author, August Hahn, a Kai Hunter class was
originally designed for release, but Joe Dever nixed it, stating that Kai
Hunters simply did not exist — they were not needed due to the
overwhelming odds used in MS5050 to obliterate the Kai. The most famous
perversion of Kai’s gifts was Wolf’s Bane, a unique antithetical being in the
19th book of the series. GMs wishing to use Kai Hunters are therefore
warned that though they may not necessarily upset the “balance” of the world,
they are not canonical. Indeed they are based off an unofficial expansion
supplement, Andrew Gale's Book of the Magnakai. Further unofficial
canon dictates that they all died off through in-fighting by MS5050, hence
their absence from the attack on the monastery.
Characteristics: The Nad-Adez Konkor are heartless and merciless. They
have one ultimate goal, and that is the eradication of the Kai. They know that
they are hybrid abominations, but they still see themselves as being next to
the Darklords in power and station. Obviously, other darkspawn and native
Darklanders take issue with this.
Religion: Naar created them, and it is to him alone that they bow. Should one
of them ever falter in service to Naar, it would not be unexpected for the dark
god to unleash his wrath upon that one.
Background: For years after creation the Kai Hunters were trained in the
different regions of the Darklands, until they had all manifested at least one of
the Dark Disciplines. At this time, they were sent forth into Magnamund to
carry out the rest of their training. Upon gaining all ten disciplines, they are to
return to Helgedad at once in order to be prepped for infiltration into the
Shadow Gate at Toran. This will not be easy, for the Kai already know about
these plans.
Other Classes: Kai Hunters are haughty and elitist in regard to others. And
rightly so. They see themselves as being above all other classes and creatures
in the Darklands, including the Nadziranim who helped create them. They
would never strive to follow a path other than the one they have been
“granted”.
Rules, Rulings
the Web
As Summer closed in on Sol Hawk, Arcadian stepped
inbetween them. The Vakeros was much faster than her,
striking out at her with a vengeance.
Attack 1: 19
Damage: 7
Attack 2: 19
Damage: 13
Total Damage: 20
"Leave him alone you...!"
Sorry about that KL, I'll make sure it
doesn't happen again. I just didn't
realize there was a map until after I
posted lol.
He brought the blade around across her midsection, twisted
around and lunged forward with the blue-steel sword.
Summer felt the blade's blazing, cobalt fire run down the
blade and into her body, wrieking more damage upon her.
Arcadian stepped back and brought his blade in front of
him, preparing for whatever attack might come his way
next.
I'm still fighting defensively, using a
move action to pull out my poignard
and I attack with my rapier, rolling a
critical miss. Next round there will be a
full round attack, by Ishir and Kai!
Hey. Maybe he'll spend his first round
finishing me off...
Initiative of 6.
I'll have to look when I get home.
Based on that, it sounds valid, since the
poison affects the muscles and not the
nervous system. For initiative (I haven't
looked at the roll--don't foresee any
time in the near future to do so), modify
the roll so that Dex is -6 and add a
bonus equal to your Intelligence bonus.
In other words d20 + -6 + Intel bonus
= when you act. Also, let me know the
illusion you wish to cast and who it
targets.
***
The sage never did feel armed before his poignard was in
his left hand so he pulled out the parrying dagger as he
tried to fend of the attacks of the man who appeared to be
Egoliah, their quarry.
***
Korlaeth struggled to move as the poison from al'Akramin
coursed through him. He watched in horror as his friends
were hurt again and again by these feyatas.
Korlaeth cursed himself mentally. How could he have
trusted these people so blindly?! There must be
something...wait, the Elder Arts! He concentrated and
began channelling the energy for an illusion as a pained,
but extremely confident smile spread across his face.
Overlord Tava'ryn's shade suddenly appeared in
al'Akramin's peripheral vision, his face contorted in agony.
Blood leaked from an arrow wound in his chest as he
collapsed to his knees and then fell on his face.
***
Good point.
Keeping it simple this round. We'll
attack with the basic double fireball,
also taking a 5' step back away from the
action. The fireballs are aimed at the
dark haired one (Autumn, right?)
Fireball 1: rolled 28, and 21 damage
Fireball 2: rolled 20, and 17 damage
I also have an idea, but I want to run it
by you, Kai Lord. If Hawkeye were to
fire an arrow into one of the opponents,
could I use force grasp once the arrow
hit the target to move it around inside
the body, causing pain and damage? It
says it can move an object 10 ft. per
round, too slow to weild a weapon in
combat, but probably not too slow to
push it around organs and what not.
That's where it already being in the
body comes in.
Good and bad happen this round.
Which way will the balance tilt? Oh, and
Valestar, I see nothing wrong with
grasping something that is protruding
from someone to jiggle it. Doing so will
cause an extra 1d3 damage.
Two new targets have arrived: Warlords
Bisrallah and Set'na.------------------Æ
Okay, lots of action here: You need to
make a Will save vs. DC30. Your psychic
shield is shattered. You must erect it
next round at the cost of 2 WP. -6 WP,
duration of stun is 2 rounds if you fail
the saving throw.
Next, roll d20 and add your Str score to
it (d20+13 if I'm not mistaken). If your
total is 31 or higher, you manage to
withstand her pounce and not fall over.
If you fail, she has knocked you onto
the table on your back. She is on top of
you, straddled, biting your face in that
case. -4 EP for the face bite.
If you pass the special Strength check,
she bites your face as she collides with
you. The tables stops your backward
movement and you're able to stay
upright. Regardless of the action,
Valestar's action takes effect, as you'll
see below. If nothing else happens, he
may have just saved your life. But at
what cost....
Valestar breathed in releif as the fire spirit obeyed him and
struck Egoliah full on. But his relief soon turned to shock as
Hawkeye's body pushed back against his, knocked back by
the force of Autumn bestial attack. Valestar backed away
instinctively, but then felt rage flow through him as his
friend's blood spread on the inn's hard floor. The rest of the
battle was lost to him. He was focused solely on protecting
his friend. Egoliah, the other Kai Lords... none of them
mattered now. He raised his staff and roared a battle cry as
white hot flames burst forward, arced high in the air and
then, with a high pitched scream, flew towards Autumn.
***
Arcadian knew that two of his friends were incapacitated.
Something had to be done fast. Ignoring the one-eyed
villain near him, the Vakeros chose instead to intercede
and try to stop Summer from killing Sol Hawk.
He sidestepped past Simyn, swinging his blade carefully in
the confined space as the patrons in the room scattered out
broken windows as he was wont to do on occasion. The
blade criss-crossed on her torso, leaving massive gashes in
her armor as it bit through the soft leather and tore into
the monster underneath.
At the same time, Hawkeye's blade danced through
Autumn's defenses. Blood covered the floor from his
attacks, one of which still spurted blood high in the air out
of her shoulder.
The doors to the kitchen burst open just as the innkeeper
was about to leave by way of them. He let out a terrified
howl of horror as the force of the swinging doors knocked
him to his rump behind the bar. Two men dressed in fine
apparel took a couple of steps forward, sizing up the
situation. Each of them held a long and short blade, and
though they looked to have led a life of opulence, they
were not hesitant about entering this combat.
As the newcomers looked around the room, Autumn took a
small step back and hit the Kai with a blast of psychic
energy similar to that Sol Hawk had just felt. At the same
instant, she sprang through the air like a wild animal, claws
extended, and bit Hawkeye again on the face.
Simyn lashed out at al-Akra'min, but the attack was limited
due to the tight space, and it was so well telegraphed that
he had no trouble avoiding it. He focused on a new target-one who had conveniently given him back his dagger.
Flicking the release lever to recoat the blade from the vial
in the handle, he hurled it at the immobilized Kai, easily
striking him in the stomach as he grunted and tried to
move about. Not waiting to see the effects, the master
assassin broke right and headed toward an open window
on the other side of the room. Sol Hawk: Same DCs as
Korlaeth had. DC17 on paralysis, DC22 on Con loss of 1d4.
Commentary
KAI HUNTER character class (cont’d)
GAME RULE INFORMATION
Racial Note: Drakkarim only, but they are classified as Darkspawn for the
purpose of spells and abilities that affect them. (Note: The harsh features of
the Drakkarim have been altered through magic to pass for a normal human
inhabitant of Magnamund.)
Abilities: Due to an inherent lack of healing without having first killed
something, Dexterity and Constitution are important. Dexterity plays a key
role in the main task of a Kai Hunter, which is—obviously—hunting and
dispatching the warrior-protectors of Sommerlund. A high Strength would
also help a Kai Hunter kill more easily.
Endurance Die: d8
Base Speed: 30 feet
CLASS SKILLS
Acrobatics, Athletics, Bluff, Climb, Concentration, Disguise, Escape Artist,
Knowledge (history, warfare, the Darklands), Perception, Ride, Sense
Motive, Sleight of Hand, Speak Language, Survival, Stealth
Skill points at first level: (4 + Int mod) x 4
Skill points at each additional level: 4 + Int mod
Armor and Weapon Proficiency: All non-racial melee and ranged weapons.
All light and medium armor and shields. Note that some armor affects skills
and Dark Disciplines.
Kai Hunter Disciplines: At each level (1-10) a new Dark Discipline is
chosen randomly. This is a by-product of the unstable energies used to merge
th
Drakkar and Kai. Upon reaching 11 level, a Kai Hunter has gained sufficient
control over the forces which govern his body to choose which Advanced
Dark Discipline he wishes to perfect. Only Dark Disciplines that have
reached Tier V may be chosen as Advanced Dark Disciplines. In order to
determine which skill is manifested, list them out on a sheet of paper
numbered 1-10 when the character is created. Then roll 1d10 at each level,
rerolling any numbers that correlate to disciplines already learned.
Willpower: A Kai Hunter has a Willpower score just as a Kai does, allowing
him to engage in psychic combat if he has the Dark Discipline of Mindblast.
This score is equal to half the character’s Wisdom score, rounded up, at first
level. At each successive level, the total raises by the character’s Wisdom
modifier + 1 (minimum 2). This mental reserve is refreshed each day by a
number of points equal to the character’s Charisma score.
Focus: As per the LWRPG Core Rulebook.
Advanced Dark Disciplines: At 11th level, the basic Dark Disciplines begin
to augment themselves even more. As already stated, the Kai Hunter may
now choose which he takes at each level.
Ex-Kai Hunters: It is impossible for the Kai Hunter to abandon what he is or
become something else. He simply is what he is. If one should be willful and
powerful enough to resist his very nature, Naar would surely sense this and
slay the insolent pawn.
Dark Disciplines and EP/WP: Some Tier abilities require a payment of
either physical or mental energy (or a combination of the two) to come into
being. Sometimes it is a per-use cost, sometimes it is a per-duration cost, and
other times it may be a permanent cost. Any payment with an asterisk beside
it will have more details on the cost outlined in the ability description.
Rules,
Rulings
Summer
(aka: Solar Eclipse)
NAK15
AC: 18 PsyAC: 34
EP: 103/137
WP: 59/79
Immune to Mindblast
Egoliah
(aka: al-Akra'min)
Shz15/KZ10
AC: 22
PsyAC: none
EP: 131/180
Bisrallah
Shz17
AC: 17
PsyAC: none
EP: 102/102
Set'na
Shz17
AC: 16
PsyAC: none
EP: 141/141
Brute
Shz7
AC: 11
PsyAC: none
EP: 80/80
Act VIa, Conclusion – Flying
Near the Web
Commentary
Sir Victor of Ruanon had seen his share of
bloodshed. But these people did not fight
properly! They resorted to everything but direct
one-on-one combat. He watched as Egoliah
hurled the dagger into Sol Hawk, and he saw the
pain and shock in his friend's eyes.
Korlaeth was down. Hawkeye had just been hit
hard by Autumn's leap. Sol Hawk was now
down. Only seconds ago, there were seven of
them, fully ready to kill Egoliah and end this.
So be it. He alone would end it. Sir Victor
mustered all his power and speed to achieve
results his master trainers said could not be
done. Like a shadow of death's hand, he moved
as Egoliah moved, slashing at the man's back
and connecting with two thunderous blows. In
shock Egoliah turned to see who was following
him. SV: -1 FP
Valestar focused his mind through his staff as
Autumn pounced on Hawkeye, sending two fiery
pulses of energy at her. The blasts hit her hard,
knocking her back onto the table away from
Hawkeye, where she lay, smouldering, her
lifeless gaze fixed upon her sister as her form
reverted to normal.
The door behind Valestar burst open as he
stared at her, and a huge bare-chested brute
entered, waving a huge broad-bladed scimitar
around. One patron was not fast enough to get
out of his way, and the blade neatly carved the
man's head from his body. With a laugh of cruel
triumph, the brute entered and looked
around.Blow your whistle and dogs appear....
Egoliah turned to face the man who had inflicted
such pain upon him, but instead he saw his
brother, dying in pain. The scene shattered
something inside the man. He stared numbly as
rage built inside him like hot molten earth under
a volcano. Flat-footed, AC17 until he acts again
next round.
Summer managed to land a painfully solid blow
to Sol Hawk's shoulder before Arcadian
appeared. The Vakeros left her two jagged
wounds, for which she decided to return the
favor. The mace hammered into his chest twice,
and a fiery pain entered his mind as Summer
sought him with her deadly psychic powers. SH:
-12 EP. Cade: Hit 29/Damage 13 ; Hit
15/Damage 10 ; Autohit/Psychic Damage 11 EP
And then suddenly she turned as if someone had
called out to her over her shoulder. She looked
face to face with her deceased sister, and then
to the only man who could have done this. Like
a rabid animal, wearing a human mask as feral
as her sister's quasi-animal one, Summer took a
step toward the mage.
DARK DISCIPLINES
Ambush
This Dark Discipline is especially effective when used in conjunction with Obscurement, for these abilities are
used when the Kai Hunter strikes out at a foe from a hiding place. As a bonus for having this Discipline, the Kai
Hunter gains a bonus to Stealth checks while remaining still equal to his highest useable Tier.
Tier I: Futile Flight
A Kai Hunter’s base movement rate is increased to 40 feet, making it difficult for most humanoids to outrun or
capture him. In addition, he gains a bonus to Climb and Jump checks equal to this discipline's Tier due to this
increase in speed.
Tier II: Strike from Above
Dropping from a perch onto an opponent is treated like a charge attack, and no damage from falling is taken if the
distance dropped is 20 feet or less; due to a quick recovery time from such a low height, there is no penalty to AC
in the following round. Up to a height of 40 feet, the damage from falling is halved; the AC penalty applies here
due to the amount of time needed to recover from such a high drop. In either case, the rolled damage from the
actual attack is increased by a factor of 1.5x, rounded up.
Tier III: Preying Mantis (-3 ENDURANCE)
Ambush is vital to gaining an upper hand in combat. For this reason, Kai Hunters will sometimes seek to wait and
watch until their intended target passes nearby. When using a dagger-type weapon (knife, stiletto, khanjar, etc.),
the Kai Hunter can attack any opponent that passes within 10’ of his hiding place before they can act. This special
attack does 1d4 damage for every Tier of Ambush the Kai Hunter has acquired.
Tier IV: Sniper’s Boon (-4 ENDURANCE)
When using a bow or crossbow, and when not engaged in combat, a Kai Hunter can add an extra +4 to a single
attack roll and increase the critical range for that attack by 2. This bonus is added after passing a Concentration
check at (DC25 – the Kai Hunter's highest base attack modifier). No other attacks or actions can be taken in the
same round that Sniper's Boon is used (it is a full round action), and the Kai Hunter is considered flat-footed.
Tier V: Silent Storm (-6 ENDURANCE)
A Kai Hunter can leap from his hiding place, move up to half his base movement speed, and still strike his
opponent with a full attack, applying a –5 on all attack rolls. Opponents are allowed a Perception check at DC (10
+ NAK Character Level) to notice this movement. Those who pass this check are not considered flat-footed, but
the Kai Hunter still gets a full attack against them.
Beginning of Round 3 ---Æ
Rules, Rulings
Well, Summer's next, is all I
can say. But I better not let
her get too close. And there's
that guy behind me too...
d_mn, gotta think this one
out. Okay, so now another
question. D3 isn't quite
enough damage for me to
want to take the extra move
to do that, unless it has some
stunning properties from the
pain. but that's just for a
jiggle. What if I burrow the
arrow or blade deeper inside
the body, maybe even move
it through the body into the
stomach or a lung or
something? And here's some
other ideas. What about fire
arrows? Could I set one of
Hawkeye's arrows on fire
before he fires it? Or, here's
a bizzarre one: if I'm able to
get a bag over Summer's
head, can I use force barrier
to keep it there, blinding her?
Or maybe it's time to use
that vial with the Wind
Elemental... oh my, could I
possibly break it inside her
mouth?
Options, options...
ROUND 3
Valestar saw that he had been too late. The feral Autumn jumped through the
air and landed hard on Hawkeye. A second later his fireballs slammed into her
with the force of skyriders, blasting her into the air. She came down, it
seemed to Valestar, in slow motion, her body burnt horribly, her mouth open
in shock. Her head rolled to one side.
"If you act like a dog, you deserve to die like one," Valestar mumbled. He
spoke it mostly to ease the sickening feeling he had in his gut. Before her
head had turned, her eyes had met Valestar's. He would never forget them.
But at least now, he felt he had a moment now to assess the situation. What
should he do next?
Hawkeye seemed stunned by Autumn's attack. Valestar didn't blame him. He
was just glad the fireballs had arced over him, instead of trying to go through
him. He praised the time he had spent studying. Valestar called out to
Hawkeye, hoping he wasn't dead. "I thought Kai Lords were faster than that,
old man," he said sarcastically. By the Goddess, he hoped he wasn't dead.
Korlaeth was the next one he caught sight of. The Vakeros was dying, that
much was obvious. Should Valestar go to his aide?
Simyn and the knight (Valestar hadn't talked to him in days and had
forgotten his name) were in battle with the strange one eyed man who
Valestar now understood was Egoliah himself. How had that come to pass?
How had none of them, even his own paranoid self, not felt even a glimmer of
warning at this dangerous man's presence? He supposed it was true, in the
land of the blind the one eyed man is king. Valestar had hit the man with his
fire spirit, but he had shrugged off the attack, and now looked ready to make
good his escape. Should Valestar hit him again, or use force barrier to block
his way? But no, the knight rushed in, as ready to die as any knight ever was.
He could deal with Egoliah, then. Valestar still wanted more out of his own
life. But suddenly Egoliah's hand flicked out, and Sol Hawk fell back, a dagger
in his stomach. Instinctively, Valestar knew the blade was poisened.
Even as Sol Hawk went down, Summer moved in and seemed to break his
shoulder with her mace. Arcadian came to help, but he too was crushed by
Summer's critical blows. And then, to Valestar's horror, the blonde siren
looked over and saw her sister. The sister he had murdered. And in the next
moment, she was moving towards him.
Before he could deal with this, the door behind him burst open and he heard a
scream as one of the patrons died by the sword of a burly new arrival. With
growing fear, Valestar realized he was the next closest target. What to do,
what to do?
Many ideas rushed through his mind. If Hawkeye could be roused, they could
work together to take out the blonde rogue. If not, should he stick to his
usual strategy of setting things on fire? Should he call another spirit to aide
him? He suddenly remembered the Wind Elemental vial he had in his pocket.
Surely, if broken, the elemental would burst free. And if he could concentrate
that energy on Summer... maybe break it between her jaws. But did he dare
get that close? What else did he have in his pocket? Some sand... that could
blind. Some rings... no use, unless he wanted to woe the girl, or the burly
man. Well, maybe the burly man could be convinced to help them for the
right price. Or maybe he should forget the offensive and cast a force shield
around himself, wait for this all to blow over.
Whatever he decided to do, he had to decide fast. Summer was approaching,
and he was the harvest.
***
I'm going to attack
defensively again. I'm trying
to attack the closest of the
sharnazim that blocks the
door. If possible I will jump
up on the table and attack
him from his left side. If not
I'll go head on. I will not
charge and only use one
attack. (Can I use my offhand attack or do I need a
full action for that). At least I
hit him for 2 points of
damage...
Korlaeth winced inside as Egoliah's dagger struck Sol in the stomach. He
could only hope that the Kai lord would be more resistant to the poison.
Suddenly, his finger twitched, and Korlaeth's false smile became a little more
sincere. It seemed that the paralysis was wearing off! The sincerity quickly
faded as more of Egoliah's goons burst into the inn, but his face still showed
tremendous overconfidence.
This Vakeros still had one or two tricks up his sleeve....
***
Seeing the entrance of two new combatants and the escape of Egoliah, Simyn
the Sage decided to protect the backs of his friends.
***
Attack vs. Summer
Attack 1: 32
Damage 1: 9
Attack 2: 27
Damage 2: 8
My initiative is pretty high so
if I can intercept Summer
before she reaches Valestar I
will do it. Arcadian knows
that in a one-on-one melee
he can take more damage
than Valestar can. He will do
anything he can, even
through his body inbetween
Summer and Valestar to take
a hit.
Summer swung her mace, connecting with Arcadian's broad chest. The heavy,
metal weapon hit him so hard he flew backwards into the table. Arcadian
shrugged off the cloak that enveloped him with a cry of rage. He sounded his
warcry as he charged the woman, hoping that at the very least it would
strengthen Korlaeth's resolve.
"BLOOD AND BLUE STEEL!!!"
The newly arrived warlords winced angrily at the sound. Arcadian moved
forward like an enraged animal. Summer's psychic abilities ripped through the
Vakeros' brain as a tidal wave but Cade was undaunted.
"AHH!!!"
Summer was ready. Once again the mace struck Arcadian in the chest,
stopping his charge instantly. Muscled groaned. He felt his ribs crack and
break under the pressure of the blow, sending unimaginable waves of pain
throughout his entire body. Arcadian bent over, his chest flowing freely with
blood. In a wretched reaction his mouth forced open and he spit gurgled
Commentary
Blighting
Rather than being able to heal himself, the Kai Hunter is able to
make others easier to kill. His mere touch becomes a dangerous
thing, allowing him to expend his own life force in order to make
others less powerful in combat.
Tier I: Tolerance
A Kai Hunter comes into contact with various types of poisons as
part of his natural training. He can now choose a specific type of
natural poison to be totally immune to, no matter the dosage (even
graveweed). Each time the Kai Hunter goes up in level, he may add
a new poison to this list. He gains a +5 bonus to Fortitude saving
throws vs natural poisons he is not yet immune to. In addition, the
atmosphere of the Darklands has no effect upon the Kai Hunter.
This aspect itself grants a +5 Fortitude bonus to any type of inhaled
toxins or chemicals.
Tier II: Blood Rites
True magical healing is beyond the ability of the Kai Hunter. He
must perform a special magical rite taught him by the Nadziranim
in order to transfer energy from a freshly slain corpse into himself.
As a full round action, the Kai Hunter can absorb enough energy to
restore a number of EP equal to his Blighting tier + his character
level. This must be done over a fresh kill that died by the Kai
Hunter's hand. If the corpse was a Kai, he absorbs an extra 2d4 EP.
Note that anything under 2 ED will yield no EP, and a Kai Hunter
cannot absorb more EP than the slain had in life. This ability can be
used a number of times per day equal to this Dark Discipline's Tier
+ his Wisdom modifier.
Tier III: Crippling Touch (-2 EP per point of damage, minimum 2 EP)
As a full round action, the Kai Hunter can forego striking with a
weapon in order to make an unarmed strike against his foe. If this
strike hits, the target suffers normal damage, in addition to losing a
point of Strength for each 2 EP paid. The full cost is decided before
the attack and is only applied if the target is hit, otherwise only 2 EP
is lost due to the intense strain. The target suffers this effect for a
duration of 1d4+1 rounds (duration is kept secret from the Kai
Hunter).
(Example: Black Talon decides to spend 4 EP on a Crippling Touch
attack. He strikes his opponent and does 2 EP non-lethal damage,
in addition to 2 points of Strength damage. His opponent now
suffers a –1 penalty to attacks and damage, in addition to possibly
being overburdened. The GM determines the Kai Hunter now has 3
rounds in which to take advantage of this ability loss, at which time
the loss is fully restored.)
Tier IV: Numbing Touch (-3 EP per point of damage, min –3 EP)
The Kai Hunter can cause the movements of his foes to become
slowed and cumbersome. The mechanics of this attack are the same
as Crippling Touch, except that the ability loss is applied to
Dexterity.
Tier V: Fatiguing Touch (-4 EP per point of damage, min –4 EP)
A Kai Hunter can now obliterate the very vigor of his foe. This
attack is handled the same as the previous two tiers, but the ability
loss is applied to Constitution. It is often as costly to the Kai Hunter
as it is his foe, however, and should be used wisely. (Note that this
can be very effective if the opponent has a low EP score, as the
resultant loss of EP from the drop in Constitution could reduce him
to 0 EP instantly.)
(Example: Black Talon (a 13th level NAK) decides to spend 12 EP
on a Fatiguing Touch attack. He strikes his opponent (an 11th level
Kai) and does 3 EP non-lethal damage, in addition to 3 points of
Constitution damage. His opponent had a Constitution of 15, but
now suddenly it drops to 12. Along with that loss comes not only a
penalty to Fortitude saves, but also a decrease in health equal to up
to NAK’s class level. Going from a 15 to 12 reveals only a –1
change in Constitution modifier, so the Kai loses 11 EP from the
attack. It would seem that a –12 EP personal loss for a –11 EP foe
loss is not wise. . .unless the target is almost dead and the NAK is
rendered weaponless. . . .)
Feral Touch
This ability allows the character control over animals, specifically
hostile ones or predators. As mastery of this dark discipline
advances, the Kai Hunter goes from being able to merely summon
animals to making them attack without regard to safety.
Tier I: Rabid Summons
Having an affinity with other creatures that hunt and kill, the Kai
Hunter can call for help from natural woodland predators. As a
standard action, he can send out a mental call to all carnivores in a
half-mile radius (the number called is equal to the Kai Hunter's tier
in Feral Touch). If any animal hears the call, it is allowed a Will
save vs. DC10 + the Kai Hunter's character level. Animals that fail
the save arrive in 2d4+2 rounds, moving at maximum speed to
reach the Kai Hunter. Only non-domesticated carnivores can be
called this way.
Tier II: Voice of the Wild
A Kai Hunter can converse with any animal of Intelligence 2 or
greater that he maintains sight with. This animal is subject to
normal conversational motivators, such as Bluff and Intimidate. It
must be noted that animals typically relate the world to others in
their own terms, hence a cat will refer to a horse as being
gargantuan in size.
Rules, Rulings
Commentary
blood over the floor.
His hair matted and his chest bloody the Vakeros looked up at Summer with
hatred in his eyes.
"Is that all you've got? Finish it b_tch*!"
Summer smiled, "my pleasure."
But then her eyes caught the bloodied body of Autumn and she flew into a
berserk rage, taking after Valestar like a bat out of hell. The pain; it
enveloped Arcadian. He was wearing no armor, was severely outnumbered,
and approaching death. He spit again, watched as the blood hit the floor.
"Ah!" White lances of pain shot through him as he forced himself to stand and
move towards the form of Summer as she moved away. He staggered and his
body slagged, threatening to send him crashing to the floor. Somehow he
managed to keep his balance. He had been hit hard, and he knew it. But he
wasn't out of the fight yet.
Summoning what strength he had the Vakeros drew up his sword and
launched himself towards Summer.
"I'm...not...finished with...you!!!"
OOC: Poison countered by
Venomblade
OOC: Stun has worn off.
Ahh, forgot about that
SH. It is modified Kalkoth
and Javek venom.
Ok, Egoliah is still
moving before me, which
means I won't benefit from
his hesitation caused by the
illusion (AC17), and he'll still
be able to flee out the
window. If he's jumping
through the window, I let him
go and come back to help my
friends; if he stands and
fights, then so will I:
Full attack:
To hit: 19, 17
Damage (only if he's AC 17):
13, 11 (total of 24).
5' step to J11 or towards
Egoliah if he's in range and I
need to close with him to
attack.
Ok, rolled an 18 vs
DC30 for willpower. I can't
even touch 30!!!! So instant
fail for me...and that would
mean, I'm stunned for 2
rounds as well as -4EP. Ok
erecting shield next turn, so
how many WP in total do I
lose? 6 or 8??? As for the
strength check, right on the
dot!!! Phew.......
Willpower check : 18
Strength check : 31
Okay, Valestar's got a
bit of a plan now...
Move: go to C11 (if I can, I
assumed every square was 5
feet)
Standard action: use force
grasp to flip over and push
the table with Autumn's body
on it against Summer. If I
can't flip it, then I'll just push
the table against her,
crushing her and pinning her
as best I can. (-4 WP)
Free action: pull out air
elemental vial
***
The events of the next moment were a blur to Sol Hawk and he acted only on
instinct. Summer dropped the mace toward his face - as her shape came at
him, an aura of danger about her form, she lowered the mace fast toward his
skull. In a daze still, Sol Hawk raised up his arm to block the blow, taking the
painful strike to his forearm - had the bone broken? From the pain of it, it was
impossible to tell. But another figure interceded - it was Cade. Sol Hawk could
not see his body through the haze, but the bright blue aura of the Vakeros
was unmistakable. Sol Hawk felt himself falling, falling, for the strike with the
mace had thrown him down. Having somehow caught himself on the edge of
a chair, Sol Hawk fell then into it, and for a moment, with the Vakeros
fighting off his attacker, he had hope. He sat and stared for a moment, only
happy that he was being defended, that Arcadian had taken control of the
situation and that helpless though he had become, he would not yet die...
This was a fleeting dream, however, for Egoliah, from whatever direction the
Kai Lord did not know, had stabbed him with the deadly dagger which had
felled Korlaeth. Sol Hawk felt the poison coursing through his veins, and in
slow motion, it was as if he could see the vile substances moving at lowspeed through him - the place where the dagger had penetrated was a
flashpoint of light and pain. No. If Cade could fight, then he would fight. This
would not any longer be tolerated. In the darkness came the image of a
powerful Kai Lord - it was Light Hawk, the man for whom Sol Hawk had been
named, the man whose weapon had been bestowed into Sol Hawk's care by
the Kai Masters. Light Hawk's eyes were fierce yet gentle - his stance was
easy, yet fully prepared for anything. And his mind - it was the epitome of
clarity and precision - to Sol's psychic senses, it was a thing of immense
mathematical and emotional beauty.
Get up, said the Kai Paragon, and the white-bearded man spoke with a voice
that could not be ignored. I'm trying, said Sol Hawk, but he could not, his
body wouldn't move. I said, 'Get up,' said Light Hawk again. And this time Sol
Hawk could just obey. Though his veins were full of poison and every muscle
in him was screaming to stay down, Sol Hawk stood, staring at everything
around him, a fiery brilliance emenating from his spirit-body on all sides. His
mind immediately cleared of all confusion. The deadly poison burned off,
forced like a steam out of the pores in his skin. He was Sol Hawk. And he
would not be kept down.
***
His friends were in trouble, of that the knight had no doubt. But Egoliah, the
man they'd been chasing for the past few weeks, was within their grasp, and
he's be d_mned if he didn't try his utmost to bring the man to justice in order
to save the princess Ameesha.
Their enemy had tried to escape, but Sir Victor had other plans in mind, and
after putting on a burst of speed he didn't know he had in him, he caught the
man and left him bleeding from two deep cuts in the back. "Come on, you
coward! Face your fate." snarled the knight, as their deadliest enemy spun
around to react to the attack.
At this moment the doors to the inn slammed open, and Sir Victor's heart
sank momentarily, for he knew it could only mean more enemies had arrived
to help their leader. The brave knight was torn in two: he knew his friends
needed him, but it seemed fate had planned something else for him.
***
Valestar made up his mind in a flurry of action. Seeing that Summer was
being pursued by the Vakeros Arcadian, he decided his best course of action
was to regroup. First he drew upon his mental powers, focusing them into the
physical realm as a giant invisible hand. He directed this force of pure will
against the table with Autumn's body on it, forcing it against Summer,
pinning her against the wall. He then ran past her on the other side of the
table, positioning himself next to Simyn. He barked out a greeting to the
sage, as he reached into his pocket and grabbed the vial containing the Wind
Elemental.
His guess was that this vial would explode with magical energy were it to be
smashed. It was a weapon that could turn the tides of this battle. And if not,
he could always leave by the window.
In the corner of his eye, he saw Egoliah fleeing, and for a moment he
wondered if he should not go after the assasin with the knight. If they could
kill Egoliah here and now, it would greatly benefit their quest.
Tier III: Guardian Beast
As a free action once per round, a Kai Hunter can order any
creature he has summoned to attack someone. The animal
commanded can must make a Will saving throw vs DC10 +
the Kai Hunter’s character level. Failure means that the animal will
attack until it takes damage, at which point it is allowed another
Will saving throw, this time at a plain DC10. If the animal passes
this saving throw, it will flee as fast as it can from the area, and it
will no longer answer the Kai Hunter’s summons if he calls again.
Tier IV: To the Death (-3 ENDURANCE)
A more powerful combination of the previous tiers, the Kai Hunter
can now command any animal to fight to the death against an
adversary (this is still restricted as a free action, once per round).
The animal will ignore all damage taken and will flee under no
circumstances—it will truly fight to the death with all ferocity.
Tier V: Alpha Beast
All wild animals can sense the power exuding from a Kai Hunter of
this tier. They will not attack the Kai Hunter, even if commanded to
or threatened. Note that if the Kai Hunter attacks the animal, it will
then fight back, but only if it cannot flee.
Fetishism
Being the minion of a Darklord or of Naar himself involves pacts.
This aspect of life in the Darklands manifested itself in the Kai
Hunter as the need for fetishes—objects to which unnatural
devotion or attention is paid. These have both a psychological and
physical effect upon the Kai Hunter, for when he has them in his
possession, he is more powerful. Should one become lost or
destroyed, he suffers for it…sometimes terribly. Note that whatever
fetish a tier calls for must be acquired before the character can go
up in level—it is not possible to bypass the abilities and penalties of
a tier just by delaying the acquisition of the fetish listed.
Tier I: The Stone
A Kai Hunter will invariably be drawn to a certain rock or pebble,
which must then be mounted in a ring, kept on a necklace, etc. The
stone must not be valuable (not worth more than 10 GC). When in
possession of this stone, the Kai Hunter gains a +1 bonus to either
his Strength, Dexterity, or Constitution. If the stone is ever removed
from his possession for any reason, the Kai Hunter loses this bonus
and gains a -1 penalty to the other two physical abilities until the
item is found. It cannot be replaced.
(Example: Black Talon has acquired his fetish Stone. His Dexterity
is better because of it, gaining a +1 bonus until one day when he is
overpowered by a band of thugs and left for dead. Upon awakening,
he discovers the ring with the stone is gone! He loses the +1 bonus
it granted to his Dexterity, in addition to losing a point from both
his Constitution and his Strength until he finds the ring. If he never
finds the ring again, this loss is permanent.)
Tier II: The Lock of Hair
The Kai Hunter must procure a lock of hair (not fur) from a living
person for some reason— he will feel compelled to do so, and it
must contain the flesh that holds the roots. This lock of hair is then
set in a leather string and worn somewhere. When in possession of
this hair, the Kai Hunter gains a +1 bonus to either his Intelligence,
Wisdom, or Charisma. If this hair is ever removed from his
possession for any reason, the Kai Hunter loses this bonus and
gains a -1 penalty to the other two mental abilities until the item is
found. Unlike the Stone, the hair can be replaced, but only from the
original source—though they may not be willing or living any
longer.
Tier III: The Teeth
After killing a carnivore in single unarmed combat (including one
that may be called using Rabid Summons), the Kai Hunter will have
the urge to extract its four fangs. These are placed on a necklace,
which must remain in contact with the skin at all times. As long as
this necklace is in place, the Kai Hunter receives a +1 bonus to
Armor Class and Reflex saves. Losing the item causes a -1 penalty
to all attack and damage rolls until it is recovered. Due to the
unique nature of this item, it can never be replaced.
Tier IV: The Blood
The Kai Hunter is infatuated with a certain creature or person. Once
he captures a vial of their blood (a few drops will do), he can place
it in a small vial to wear around his neck or wrist. This will grant
him an extra 1d10 EP and a +1 bonus to all Fortitude saves. Loss or
destruction of this item will cause the Kai Hunter to lose the bonus
EP, plus an equal number of EP until it can be recovered or
replaced. It can be replaced only from the original source.
Tier V: The Trophy
Living up to his profession is monumental for the Kai Hunter—he
must procure something from the first Kai he kills. (Note: This is
the only fetish that can be kept until needed, but its attainment
cannot be postponed.) This item must then be kept with him at all
times, and grants a +1 to all damage rolls against Kai. If this item is
ever lost, a random Kai Hunter Dark Discipline (and, if lost at
higher levels, the associated Advanced Dark Discipline) will no
longer function until the Trophy is recovered (Fetishism cannot be
affected by this random “deactivation”). Needless to say, it is very
important to not lose this item, for it cannot be replaced.
Rules, Rulings
Skeletal update. Not
much time. As a reminder,
please be sure to give me
grid locations as to where
you move to. Otherwise, I
will improvise based on
where I think you wanted to
go or be.
HE: To answer your question:
You lost 6 WP from the stun
attack. It will cost you
another 2 to raise a shield
back into place. That 2 WP
will be a one-time cost to
activate it again--you can't
attack in the same round that
you raise the shield back.
Sol Hawk, Reflex Save at
DC10 to keep from falling
down onto the table from the
sudden shift.
Hawkeye, since you're
stunned, you don't get a
Reflex Save. Since you were
braced back against the table
from Autumn's leap, the
motion has caused you to fall
backwards into it. -2 EP from
the collision. You're now on
the floor.
Also, the map can't be
updated to show the table
being moved, because it is
part of the background. I'll
try to extract it and clone the
floor.
Man, you got lucky on that
roll, Cade… Good rolls for
Cade...bad rolls for Val. Will
DC20 to avoid being stunned
next round. Also, -17 WP
from an immense psychic
attack.
Summer (Solar Eclipse)
NAK15
AC: 18 PsyAC: 34
EP: 96/137 WP: 51/79
Immune to Mindblast
Bisrallah Shz17
AC: 17 PsyAC: none
EP: 99/102 WP: none
Set'na Shz17
AC: 16 PsyAC: none
Brute Shz7
AC: 11 PsyAC: none
EP: 80/80 WP: none
Arcadian moved the instant after Summer did, realizing her intent in an instant. He lunged with
the blade, penetrating her leg, then put a hand on the table and launched himself over it in one
graceful motion. With his free hand, he took a swing meant to decapitate Summer, but hitting her
shoulder instead. He landed next to the staggered Hawkeye, who barely looked up. The Vakeros
moved quickly and interposed himself between Valestar and Summer, wary of the bare-chested
brute behind them. He grabbed a dinner knife and hurled it toward the man as Summer came
closer. -1 FP
The two warlords moved to action, veering away from one another to seek out their respective
targets. Bisrallah rushed to face Simyn, seeing as how one man sat motionless in a chair, and
another crouched on the table in front of him, breathing heavily and swaying slightly. His attack
was quick as a serpent's strike, but Simyn's blade was present to knock the thrust away.
Set'na came up behind Sir Victor and cried out a Vassagonian war cry, slashing across the man's
broad back flamboyantly while extending his free hand in the air behind him. SV: -9 EP
Egoliah closed his eyes to block out the vision, opening them an instant later to see it gone. His
friend Set'na then attacked the large man who was pursuing him. Good! The assassin shouted out,
"Bring me their heads!" then turned and dashed out the nearest broken window, moving with
skillful ease into the slowly-crowding streets.
Simyn's block of Bisrallah's attack left him unable to press a truly powerful attack. His thrust with
the rapier missed a nerve in the warlord's shoulder by a fraction of an inch. Still, he had faced
powerful foes before, carving them to pieces bit by bit. Why should this one deserve a quick
death?
Unable to give chase, Sir Victor turned his fury upon the coward who would dare attack a man in
such a manner. Set'na felt the full force of the knight's blades slam into his torso, staining the
vibrant yellow material into a deep orange with blood.
Sol Hawk felt his Kai immunities fighting off the poisons that coursed through his body.
Additionally, he felt power returning to his limbs. Shakily he stood on the table and cleared his
head. Egoliah had escaped, but there was still evil afoot.
Using his magic in the manner that a former teacher by the name of Dassini taught him, Valestar
channeled his sorcery into the form of a large fist which smashed into the table and shoved it
against the wall, pinning Summer for the moment. Unfortunately, the movement affected the two
Kai as well, which he didn't see since he was moving to the other end of the table.
Arcadian watched as Valestar departed and the Brute changed his target. "Oh great," he muttered,
watching the angered man pull the dinner knife out of his vein-covered forearm. The broad blade
whistled through the air, and Arcadian instinctively ducked, knowing the man would go for the
quick-kill.
An enraged animal is bad enough. Shoving it into a corner is even worse, and that is exactly what
Valestar did when he pushed the table into Summer. She could no longer reach the Vakeros, the
Kai at the end of the table, or the one that had just fallen to the floor.
But she didn't need to. Her mind was free to roam, and it was more powerful than her arms could
ever be. She watched the mage flee, intent on disarming him a different way. The tendrils of her
mind reached out and slammed into him from opposite directions: one facet trying to hold him
still, the other trying to burrow through his defences, if any.
As she did this, Summer reached out and plunged her fingernails into Autumn's chest, speaking
words that no one could hear. Deep crimson energy glowed for an instant around the fallen NAK's
body before it moved up Summer's arm. She pulled her bloodied fingers free, looking upon the
now-dessicated form that was once her sister.
The bloodied fingers caressed the wrinkled leathery cheek as Summer struggled to free herself.
Even villains get fate points.
Korlaeth had no choice but to witness the vampiric leeching of Autumn's essence. The woman he
had once fancied getting closer to now had the visage of a weathered hag. The skin on her arms
now shrunk and desaturated from their pale peach color to a mottled ashen grey. The green eyes
sickly brown and bulging from the open-mouthed corpse. He was certain he would have
nightmares of the event for years to come.
Beginning of Round 4----------------Æ
Commentary
Kai-Bane
Considered by some to be the ultimate
Dark Discipline, Kai-Bane allows the Kai
Hunter to become more than a nuisance to
the accursed Kai. By taking away the
things that make the Kai so effective, this
discipline renders them more susceptible
to the injury and death.
Until a discipline that Kai-Bane affects
reaches Tier V, the only effect this
discipline has is a +1 bonus on every roll
made when dealing with Kai (attack,
damage, saves, checks, etc). After a
discipline is gained that Kai-Bane
augments, the effect(s) listed below is
gained automatically, replacing this Kairelated +1 bonus. (Note: All of the effects
listed below will eventually be attained,
but the +1 bonus is a stop-gap feature to
grant something in case Kai-Bane is one
of the first 4 Dark Disciplines rolled.)
Ambush: The Kai is now subject to being
surprised or flat-footed.
Blighting: The Kai is no longer immune
to any natural toxin or poison (such as
those spread on a blade or mixed into
drinks) the Kai Hunter is immune to, as
long as it is mixed with the Kai Hunter’s
blood beforehand.
Feral Touch: The Kai can not use
Animal Kinship upon any animal(s) the
Kai Hunter summons (however, Animal
Control can still function).
Mindblast: The Kai can no longer block
these attacks with Mindshield (however,
Psi-Screen can still block them).
Mindshield: The Kai can no long detect
the Kai Hunter by using Sixth Sense.
Obscurement: The Kai Hunter gets a
+10 bonus on perception checks
involving Kai.
Seeking: The Kai can be tracked as
normal, even when leaving no physical
trail.
Warcraft: The Kai is now prevented
from using Glancing Blow.
Rules, Rulings
Reflex Save passed - hit
DC 31
(free) 5' step to C9
(free) Strafing Will hit AC 20,
8 DAM -1 EP for Sol, -1 MC
arrow
(free) speaks
(psychic) Focus hit DC 31,
regains 17 WP
(move) draws scimitars
(standard) attacks Summer
with Scimitar hit AC 28 for 11
DAM
Free Action: Drop Blue
Steel Sword
Full Action: Daernath Mage
Bolts
Attack 1 (table): 29 (6 fire
damage)
Attack 2 (Summer): 21 (8
fire damage)
Arcadian is hoping to set the
table ablaze. If his tactic
works the way he wants it to
he will probably spend the
next round pulling Hawkeye
away from it (if he is still
stunned next round). If he
has time to he will also
retrieve his weapon.
Now, in the section about the
Mage Bolt it doesn't say if
Arcadian needs 1 hand free,
2 hands free, or a Blue Steel
Weapon in hand to activate
the spell. So, I leave KL to
judge. If you judge Cade
simply needs one hand free
then Arcadian will keep his
sword in his hand and I will
edit the post. Let me know.
Two hits (one with
rapier and one with poignard)
for a total of 8 points of
damage. I need to begin roll
criticals. And by the way I'm
not fighting defensively this
round.
5' step to I 11
(Assuming Set'na is in I 12,
as I still see the round 3 map
right now.)
Full attack:
To Hit: 31, 30 (crit confirmed
with 23 on second attack)
Damage: 12, 30 (17+13 for
the crit), for a total of 42.
Edit: Crap, I forgot to add the
+2 STR bonus to damage for
fighting with my broadsword
two-handed. If you want to
take that into account KL, it
would add an extra 6 points
of damage (total 48 ) to my
attacks.
Web
ROUND 4
Having regained himself from the stun at last, and invigorated
by his meeting with Light Hawk (Focus) Sol Hawk mounted the
table to get a better vantage point on the fighting when... it
moved! The table flew out from under him, mashing Summer
into the wall like a rag doll. Sol, sensing the advantage,
vaulted off the table and toward the dark hearted woman,
drawing the silver scimitars of Egoliah's brother in mid-air,
then striking out at the woman DAM 11, backing up Cade even
as she sunk her fingers vampirically into her system.
"Hawkeye, Valestar, press the attack! Now, while we still have
our chance!" He followed his action by launching at her a
master crafted arrow which flew and found its mark in her
torso. DAM 8
***
Arcadian was in no mood. He watched as Summer roared in
anger from being trapped by Valestar. She sprung out at
Arcadian with her mind, attempting to find the nooks within his
own mind that would damage him mentally. She found
nothing.
The Vakeros decided against using his sword. He had a better
idea. She was trapped by a wooden table, possibly laquered.
Arcadian dropped his sword, the blue-steel blade clanged on
the wooden floor. Cade lifted both of his hands, palms up, to
chest level.
"Your sister is dead and you're next you little b_tch*."
All of Cade's rage went into summoning his power. Two fiery
balls of intense cobalt fire materialized above his palms. The
fire licked at the air, reflecting off of Arcadian's glowing eyes.
He stared straight at the Kai Huntress, ignoring the hot, red
blood that seeped down his chest.
Mindblast
This discipline allows the Kai Hunter to use the force of his mind to affect others in a
detrimental way. Creatures without Mindshield are at a severe disadvantage against a
Kai Hunter possessing this ability. It should be noted that regular combat, psychic
combat, and Mindblast are totally separate; all three can be used simultaneously.
Tier I: Errant Thoughts
As a standard action, the Kai Hunter can assail his opponent’s mind with meaningless
gibberish that confuses and distracts. The target of this attack suffers a -1 on attack and
damage rolls from his chaotic thoughts and inability to concentrate.
Tier II: Piercing Gaze (-4 WP per 1 EP damage)
As a standard action used on a target he can see, the Kai Hunter can transform his
psychic reserves into physical damage, causing 1 points of damage for every 4 points
of willpower he spends. This physical damage is unblockable. The Kai Hunter can
now use the Attack action in Psychic Combat.
Tier III: Mass Confusion (-4 ENDURANCE)
As a move action, more enemies can now be distracted as per Errant Thoughts. Up to 8
enemies attacking the Kai Hunter suffer the -1 attack and damage penalty.
Tier IV: Fight or Flight (-6 ENDURANCE)
As a standard action, Kai Hunter and target make opposing Will saves, each adding
their character level to the roll. If the target succeeds, he takes a -2 on the next round's
attack roll due to the intense mental battle he just encountered. Damage from this
opponent the next time he attacks is also minimized from the distraction, as if he had
rolled a 1 for the damage dice. However, if the target fails the Will save, he will turn
and flee for 2 rounds. The Kai Hunter can now use the Stun action in Psychic Combat.
Tier V: When the Walls Fell (-8 ENDURANCE, -6 WP)
This full-round action allows the Kai Hunter a chance to unleash a devastating mental
attack in lieu of any physical ones. Kai Hunter and target make opposed Will saves,
and the Kai Hunter gets to add +5 to his roll. If he succeeds, he does 5d4 + his
Charisma modifier (minimum 1) of psychic damage to the opponent. Note that this
takes the place of a Psychic Combat action. If the opponent has a Psychic Shield in
place, this successful attack shatters that shield and does a standard 2d6 psychic
damage. The opponent must make a successful Will save against DC15 to raise the
shield again, even if it is instinctive. This ability can be used once per day for every 5
levels (rounded down) the Kai Hunter has attained.
Mindshield
Without mental shields, Kai Hunters are susceptible to attacks from not only other Kai,
but also rival Kai Hunters and other creatures who can use Mindblast-like powers.
Cade's right hand shot forward and the ball of blue fire struck
the table trapping Summer with such force that the sparks
struck Arcadian on his unprotected arms. Ignoring the pain
Arcadian playfully danced the other fire bolt from hand to
hand. He could see the fear, the rage, the hate in his
opponent's eyes as the flames seeked to flicker upon her flesh.
Tier I: Shielding I
Protection from Mindblast Tier I effects.
"Go to hell!"
Tier III: Shielding III
Protection from Mindblast Tier III effects.
The second bolt struck Summer in the chest, bluefire flames
dancing around her. She struggled to put the flames out, her
hands beating at her burning chest.
***
His enemy might be strong and have a large range, but the
small sage was quick and agile.
***
Sir Victor was furious. Their quarry had escaped, like the
cowardly assassin he was, by taking advantage of the knight's
distraction caused by one of Egoliah's lapdogs striking him
from behind. This would not do for long.
The knight turned around and circled his enemy, backing him
up against the counter. Then, holding almost nothing back,
favoring strength over finesse, he struck twice with his mighty
Sommlending steel. His opponent's surprised look quickly gave
way to a wail of pain, then a wail of pain escaped his lips,
quickly followed by a stream of frothy blood.
"This is all you and your kind deserve!" spat the knight as he
prepared to deliver another deadly assault.
***
Standard: summon fire
spirit on the table fire started
by Arcadian (the one
Summer's pinned by).
Concentration at 20 to focus
the fire spirit to attack
Summer from the flames.
If I can do two spells in one
turn, then I'll also do a force
grasp to hold the table
against Summer. If not, I'll
do a move action to F10. Let
me know.
Commentary
Valestar had felt a need to protect the companions ever since
he'd met them. It was this desire that had put him at odds
with the demon and had finally banished it. More than ever, he
felt he owed these people something. Something had stirred
within the old mage, as he witnessed Arcadian rush to help
him, a man whose very first words to Valestar had been said in
anger. Now, sensing that same man could soon be in trouble,
Valestar prepared to help him. Their target was the same. The
blonde haired beauty would have to die.
Realizing his own thoughts brought a glimmer of anxiety to
Valestar's mind. Why did he feel so calm about sentencing
these strangers to death? Was a part of the demon still within
him? Or was it simply the dessert mentality, eat or be eaten?
Valestar suddenly realized that until he knew the answer to
that question, he could not go home.
For now, he was forced to put such thoughts out of mind.
Regardless of morals, if he did not kill Summer, she would kill
him. He focused, and called upon the spirits of fire to aid him,
summoning them from the depths of the magical fire Arcadian
had started.
Tier II: Shielding II
Protection from Mindblast Tier II effects. Able to now use the Raise a Shield action in
Psychic Combat.
Tier IV: Shielding IV
Protection from Mindblast Tier IV effects. An Instinctive Shield is now in place
around the Kai Hunter's mind.
Tier V: Shielding V
Protection from Mindblast Tier V effects.
Obscurement
Nature’s most efficient hunters are able to get close to their prey without it ever
knowing. The Dark Discipline of Obscurement follows this natural order, allowing the
Kai Hunter to have betters odds at being unnoticed—as long as he does not move.
Tier I: Still of the Night
As long as he does not move, a Kai Hunter gains a bonus to Stealth checks equal to
this discipline's Tier, but only at night or in conditions of extremely low light.
Movement for any reason (even to draw a weapon) negates this bonus, and a new
Stealth check must be made. This ability can only be used outdoors.
Tier II: Boon of Stillness
The Stealth check bonus mentioned above now applies to any outdoors condition
where the Kai Hunter remains motionless. The same restrictions apply, as above, in
Still of the Night. This ability cannot be used in terrain where the color is different
than the Kai Hunter's clothing (for example, wearing brown in a snow field, or white
in a jungle).
Tier III: Infiltrator's Edge
The Kai Hunter's mastery of blending with his surroundings has become honed enough
that he can now add the bonus to any Stealth check, outdoors or indoors, night or day.
Again, he must remain absolutely still for this to work.
Tier IV: Hidden in Plain Sight
This daring ability allows the Kai Hunter to stand within someone's range of vision
and force them to make a Will save. The DC is equal to the Kai Hunter's Dexterity
Score + his Wisdom bonus + his tier in Obscurement + 5. If the target fails the saving
throw, the Kai Hunter can remain motionless and be treated as unseen, for he has
essentially become invisible to that person’s eyes. Note that this can only work with
humanoids, not animals or monsters. Also, if the target is already watching or has seen
the Kai Hunter, he cannot use
this ability.
Tier V: Chameleon's Gift
Bordering on the supernatural, this ability of the Kai Hunter is rarely witnessed, for the
target rarely ever sees what attacked them. The Kai Hunter is able to alter the
coloration of his clothing temporarily so that it blends almost perfectly with the
surroundings. He gains a +10 bonus to his Stealth check when still, and he gains a +2
synergy bonus for every 5 ranks he has in Acrobatics due to his ability to contort his
body into a “non-human-appearing” pose. It should be noted that complex
backgrounds (such as a tapestry or bookshelf) are extremely difficult to emulate in this
fashion, and only grant a +5 bonus with no acrobatic synergy effects. This ability also
can only be used on cloth that the character is wearing. No armor (leather, metal, or
otherwise), skin, or hair is affected.
Rules,
Rulings
Post will be skeletal.
Monday = first
morning off,
kindergarten
orientation, prep for
school and such.
Tuesday = 14th
anniversary, movie
with family. Today =
massive joint cleaning
effort in the house,
first day of school.
Hawkeye merely stared upward, grimacing in pain and noticing that there was a
bright flash akin to a small explosion above him on the table. Great.
Summer
(Solar Eclipse)
NAK15
AC: 27/18 PsyAC: 34
EP: 58/137 WP: 49/79
Immune to Mindblast,
full defense +
defensive stance
Sir Victor brought his massive blade down, spliting bone and muscle in Set'na's
shoulder. Twirling his body to pull the blade free and give it momentum, he spun it
from high to low and brought it up from the floor underneath the arm, tearing
through everything as it cleaved the man's arm clean off in a spray of blood. Set'na
shrieked in pain and fell to the side as his sword arm thumped onto the bar and slid
behind it.
Bisrallah
Shz17
AC: 17 PsyAC: none
EP: 91/102 WP: none
Valestar saw the flames on the table as an opportunity. Making a conduit with his
mind from the flames to Summer's chest, he called the fire elemental and watched
as it took the path he chose for it. The creature slammed into Autumn's chest with
another flash of flames.
Set'na
Shz17
AC: 12/16
PsyAC: none
EP: 70/141 WP: none
bleeding profusely 5EP/round -4 AC, on
the floor
Hawkeye was now sure something was on fire. Right above him.
Brute
Shz7
AC: 11 PsyAC: none
EP: 80/80 WP: none
Arcadian's bolts struck both the Kai Hunter and the table, setting one of them
ablaze. The wood was instantly ignited by the magical flame, yet Summer managed
to keep herself from catching afire.
Bisrallah ignored the approaching mage and concentrated on Simyn instead. His
sword drew a red line across the sage's midsection, darting around more quickly
than could be countered. Simyn: -5 EP
Set'na took a step back from the assault of the knight but held his ground. The
blade danced back and forth in a rapid series of feigned slashes that turned into
thrusts. The knight grunted as the blade poked him. His anger boiled within at this
man's arrogant blade-dancing and smug countenance. Sir Victor: -14 EP
Simyn's own attacks were equally insidious, but without the sneakiness and illusion
of the Sharnazim style. He pressed the attack, intent on keeping the focus of the
man away from Valestar.
"Ny'ka!" he shouted, turning towards the front of the inn.
Screaming in frustration, Summer wriggled the table back enough to move a bit,
and then the flames hit her. Now the frustration became pain. The searing fire tore
through her armor and blistered her left arm and chest. She did a front handspring
over the table and landed beyond Hawkeye, slapping at the flames in her hair to put
them out.
The Kai she had stunned was now moving again. She ignored him and instead let
her vengeance wander to the mage who was working these fiery sorceries. As she
moved toward the door backwards, she cast him a scathing glance that--from her-carried more than just an evil look. Instantly his mind was hit with a fire of a
different sort. Valestar: -12 WP (if you are out of WP, it carries over to EP)
Hearing his name called, the large Sharnazim warrior turned to see who had called.
All he could see was the large northlander. Taking the opportunity to leave his mark
upon the man who had summoned fire and was now weaponless, the brute grinned
cruelly and swung his heavy sword down on to Arcadian's exposed back. Arcadian: 12 EP
He then strode off to intercept Sir Victor.
Beginning of Round 5---------Æ
Commentary
Seeking
This Dark Discipline allows the Kai Hunter the ability to find his
favored enemy—the Kai Lords of Sommerlund—and to gather
information about his surroundings. This ability grants a bonus on all
Stealth checks when moving equal to the highest useable Tier.
Tier I: On the Trail
The Kai Hunter gains the ability to track, especially when following
Kai Lords. Refer to the DC chart and modifier chart on p40 of the
LWRPG Core Rulebook for information on "normal" tracking.
When tracking a Kai, the DC is decreased by this Tier's level.
Tier II: Outfoxing the Fox
The Kai Hunter is not fooled by doubling back when tracking
something, nor do trailmasking effects (water, fresh snow, etc) have
as great an effect on his skills. The DC when dealing with those
types of hindrances is reduced by the Kai Hunter’s Tier in this
discipline. He can also travel in such a way as to confuse Kai which
may be tracking him, increasing the DC to follow his trail accurately
by 5 + this ability’s Tier when moving at half-normal speed, and 10
+ this ability’s Tier when moving at quarter-normal speed.
Tier III: Around the Corner (-1 ENDURANCE)
The Kai Hunter can open his being up to creatures of good or evil
allegiance for a radius of 300 feet. Whenever he approaches a
creature of either allegiance in this radius (or when one approaches
him), he physically feels how good or evil they are. Truly evil beings
will make the Kai Hunter feel very hot; truly good ones will make
him feel very cold. Neutral or unaligned creatures are undetectable
by these means.
Tier IV: Finding the Path
When tracking any humanoid, the Kai Hunter may add a bonus equal
to this ability’s Tier. Note that this does not stack with the bonus to
track Kai granted by On the Trail, it merely broadens the usage of
the tracking bonus.
Tier V: Blood of the Prey
If tracking someone he has recently wounded (and is bleeding), the
Kai Hunter can add +5 to the tracking check. Note that at any time
the tracked target makes a successful Healing check for his wounds,
or heals himself in any fashion, a new tracking roll must be made
without the +5 blood bonus. In this situation, the Kai Hunter can
sacrifice his own blood in an attempt to find the trail again. Each EP
of blood the Kai hunter bleeds from himself grants a +1 bonus to the
roll, up to a maximum of +10. This blood-letting can only be done
once per tracked target, and only once per day.
Rules,
Rulings
(psychic) Stun v
Bisrallah (SH spends
35) Stun DC is: 43
DAM 19, 3 rounds
(fullround) Charge to
E5 vs. Summer HIT
AC 35
(free) drops Silver
Scimitar
(free) Strafing Will vs.
Summer HIT AC38
(free) Speaks
NOTES - A stunned
opponent loses his
DEX bonus and is now
+2 to hit
NOTES - Anyone else
who attacks Summer
can get the +2
Flanking Bonus
NOTES - Sol loses 2
AC (charge) 1 EP
(Strafing Will) 35 WP
(Stun)
Well, I was trying
to cast a spell, but
failed my Occult roll
by eight. Oh, well.
Two hits for a
total of 9 in damage.
With a threat range of
18-20 you could wish
for more criticals.
ROUND 5
Sol Hawk glanced over to see Simyn fighting toe-to-toe with Bisrallah. Simyn fought
amazingly, but Sol Hawk knew that the Sage would need some help against a man
twice his size - especially with the Brute coming in from the other direction. For a
second, Sol Hawk made contact with Simyn's adversary. And a second was all Sol
Hawk needed.
Bisrallah's mind was hit hard by Sol Hawk's - and the man was suddenly terrified at
the sight of Simyn - so terrified, in fact, that he was powerless to advance upon the
Sage of Lyris 19 DAM, 3 Rounds Stun.
Then Summer broke free of the burning death trap, running perhaps away toward
the exit. Sol Hawk loosed his grasp on one of the Silver Scimitars and it bobbed in
the air beside him for a moment. Then, in a move that would have made Light Hawk
proud, Sol Hawk charged Summer, driving the scimitar through her body even as the
blade's flying counterpart did the same as if through a mirror action. Summer's
defenses crumbled before the twin blades that had once served her master's brother.
DAM 9, DAM 10
"Cade, Master Mage, help me!" shouted Sol Hawk. The evil woman would not be
easy to take down now that her defenses were up, but with the help of his friends,
Sol Hawk knew that they could do anything.
***
Korlaeth strained intently as the battle progress around him. His friends were being
wounded, and he could only sit and watch! Also, that Summer would so casually
desecrate the body of her sister...
His blood boiled and he clenched his fist, wanting desperately to do something...wait!
He clenched his fist! Korlaeth glared at Summer's face, framed by burning hair and
began to chant, struggling through the words of Left-handed magic he had been
seeking recently to master. He chanted loudly and threw his hand up for effect.
He clenched his side in pain as the magical energies coursed through him...and
nothing happened! Half a dozen languages he could speak as easily as if they were
his own tongue and he could not manage to get out a few simple words to cast a
Sommlending spell!
***
Charge Ny'Ka to
G12
Hit: 16
Damage: 20
I'm just waiting
for that response on
two spells (see OOC).
I'd like to hold the
door shut against
Summer, and cast a
fireball or force blade,
but I need to make
sure of my options
first. As soon as I find
out the final ruling, I'll
post
Move Action: Picking
up Sword
Standard Action:
Standard Attack
Action (miss)
Simyn continued to fight the large sharnazim, without hitting him in any vital areas.
***
The knight looked down on the poor wreck who had been a Sharnazim warrior lord
but a few moments before. The man lay bleeding out his life's blood on the floor of
the inn, a gaping wound where his sword arm used to be. No use fighting a helpless
man, although your enemies could always come back later to make you regret your
mercy. Glancing up, he could see a henchman coming to the help of his master,
though it was doubtful it would do any good. He was now the only thing standing
between the knight and his embattled companions, who direly needed him.
Sir Victor hefted his broadsword in both hands, and charged the man head on,
yelling a thunderous battle cry, setting the man aquiver, before swinging his blade in
a deadly arc towards the sharnazim's midriff.
***
The blade slashed through Arcadian's back and flayed it into ribbons. He felt his
whole body turn numb as he fell forward towards the floor. He landed on his
shoulder, his face only feet from the flames that licked at Summer's howling form.
Only an inch from his face was his blue-steel blade, waiting to be taken up.
Arcadian couldn't move. His nerves, once on fire, were now numb with a seeping
coldness that streamed through him. His eyes fluttered, the temptation to simply
close them and let all drift away a force so powerfull that he did not want to deny it.
Just let it all go...
"Cade, Master Mage, help me!"
Arcadian's eyes snapped open. The voice of Sol Hawk, his Kai friend and near
brother. He forced the cold from his veins, the numbness from his muscles. With a
groan he grasped the hilt of his sword. The blue and silver steel glinted in the lantern
light, reflecting in his own eyes.
In one, fluid motion Arcadian stood and drove the edge of his sword towards the
form of Summer, as she lept away from the blaze. The Kai Hunter twisted her head
to the side and the blade struck the wall, an inch from her right ear. With a twist of
the wrist Arcadian removed the blade, staggering backwards.
***
Posting for Valestar.
Hawkeye, you should
be able to act after
this round--probably a
good thing, too.
--------------------Æ
You may not be
having good luck, but
he's having bad luck.
Rolled a 1 on the
initial attack (which
carries a lot of
bonuses).
Commentary
Arcadian grumbled as he yanked his blade free of the wall, realizing he had just
missed a good opportunity. Below him, nearby, Hawkeye felt sensation returning to
his limbs...and just in time, for it seemed the fire above him on the table had
decided to keep burning.
Bisrallah had equally poor luck in attacking Simyn. The trio of attacks all missed by a
hair-width, leaving the Vassagonian cursing louder with each miss. Set'na, on the
other hand, merely lay on the floor, writhing in pain and bellowing as he bled to
death.
Outside, whistles began blowing and shouts could be heard as faces began peering
into the windows as people gathered around to see the action before the town guard
arrived. Unbeknownst to everyone inside, bets were being placed on everything from
who would die first to whether or not someone else would lose a limb.
Warcraft
This Dark Discipline grants the Kai Hunter the ability to bond with
certain weapons, giving him bonuses with them while taking
penalties with all other weapons. In addition, his training has taught
him how to gain an offensive or defensive advantage in combat at
any time.
Tier I: Unarmed Strike
A Kai Hunter can use his body as a natural weapon, giving him a
+1 bonus to damage with unarmed attacks. He suffers no penalty
for unarmed strikes against his opponent, even when attempting to
disarm. When fighting in this manner, the Dexterity bonus is used
on attack rolls instead of the Strength bonus, but the Strength bonus
still applies to damage.
Tier II: Bloodlust (-1 ENDURANCE permanently/weapon type)
After having been trained in all weapon forms and styles, a Kai
Hunter chooses one nonracial weapon type (example: short sword,
axe, battle axe, etc.) that he prefers above all others. He then
performs a ritual of bonding wherein the weapon must be used
against him to draw blood. After this, when using this weapon type
in combat, a +1 bonus is added to all attack rolls and a +2 bonus is
added to all damage rolls. At each new tier, the Kai Hunter may
choose another weapon type to gain this bonus with (maximum will
therefore be four). All other weapon types grant a -1 penalty on
damage and attack due to lack of bonding (minimum damage is 1).
Tier III: Offensive Stance (variable, up to -5 ENDURANCE)
The Kai Hunter can elect to spend EP in an attempt to break
through an enemy's defenses and strike back. In order to use this
ability, the Kai Hunter must have lower initiative than his target,
either naturally or due to a delay action; he also gives up any
bonuses due to AC. If the opponent strikes him and does damage,
the Kai Hunter can forego a full attack and then choose a number of
EP up to his maximum Tier in Warcraft to add to his attack and
damage rolls. This bonus lasts for the current round only, and is
good for one attack.
(Example: Grim Storm is facing a tough Kai opponent. The Kai
lashes out and strikes him with an axe, and Grim Storm embraces
the blow in order to better hit his enemy. In narrative terms, he
moves into a position that harms him more but allows a better
attack angle to his opponent. He decides to take an additional 3 EP
damage (this is added to the opponent's damage roll) in order to
get a +3 attack and damage bonus for his single attack that round.)
Tier IV: Defensive Stance (-2 ENDURANCE per round)
When fighting defensively and using a chosen weapon type (see
Bloodlust, above), the Kai Hunter may add a +7 bonus to his AC.
When in full defense, he may add +9.
Tier V: Boon of the Bonding
By knowing how to fight in all styles with a weapon type, the Kai
Hunter can better expect what forms of attacks he will face, and
adjust himself accordingly to minimize damage. When facing an
opponent who is using a weapon the Kai Hunter has Bloodlust with,
all damage from that opponent is reduced by 3. No damage can be
reduced below 1.
(Example: Stone Claw has chosen the spear for his initial Bloodlust
weapon. When facing an enemy who is using a spear, Stone Claw
has knowledge of how they will attack. Thanks to this knowledge, he
may reduce his damage from that weapon accordingly. If an
opponent hits him with a spear, and would normally cause 7
damage, Stone Claw only takes 4 damage due to his familiarity with
spear combat styles.)
ADVANCED DARK DISCIPLINES
Lore Circles
Night (Predacity, Obfuscation, Shadowing): “Do not fear the night
as much as what awaits you in the night.”
+5 to Reflex saves, +2 to one physical ability*, and +1 to another
physical ability
Ice (Debilitation, Warmastery): "Cold water on the inside of a man
sustains life; cold water surrounding a man will drain it away.”
+5 to Fortitude saves, +5 EP
Wind (Feral Embrace, Warmastery): “May the wind carry the death
cries of your foes as a warning to all who would oppose you.”
+1 increase to Base Combat Skill, +5 EP
Storm (Relic Binding, Kai-Scourge, Psi-Surge, Psi-Screen): “Only
a fool will not take shelter until the fury of the storm passes.”
+5 to Will saves, +2 to one mental ability, +1 to another mental
ability
* Physical abilities are Strength, Dexterity, and Constitution.
Mental abilities are Intelligence, Wisdom, and Charisma.
Predacity (Advanced Ambush)
Mirroring the abilities he has already learned, this Dark Discipline
further allows the Kai Hunter to successfully surprise and possibly
defeat unsuspecting enemies, both targeted and incidental.
Tier I: Fasting
One key to a successful ambush is being around at the critical
moment. This moment does not always agree with the typical needs
of life, such as eating. Through strict self-discipline, the Kai Hunter
can now go without food or water for 4 days. At 96 hours, the Kai
Hunter begins taking 1d4 damage to Strength, Dexterity, and
Constitution until he nourishes himself again. This damage to his
abilities recovers at the standard rate, but only if he continues to
eat and drink every day as normal. If an ability hits 0, the Kai
Hunter dies.
Rules,
Rulings
Valestar, used a
minimal discharge
from the staff in light
of SH's maneuver that
I know is coming up.
No need to drain you
through NPCing. Be
sure to deduct the
appropriate WP,
because I haven't.
Also, I moved you 5'
to C10 instead of D9
due to the combo
staff/spell.---------Æ
I cringed when I
rolled this, especially
considering she is
using Nightbringer and
Offensive Stance.
(Bisrallah)
Summer
(Solar Eclipse) NAK15
AC: 18/18 PsyAC: 34
EP: 32/137 WP: 46/79
Immune to Mindblast
Bisrallah Shz17,
STUNNED 3
AC: 12 PsyAC: none
EP: 56/102 WP: none
Set'na Shz17
AC: 12/16
EP: 65/141 WP: none
bleeding profusely 5EP/round -4 AC, on
the floor
Brute Shz7
AC: 11 PsyAC: none
EP: 60/80 WP: none
Web
Simyn used the poor offense of Bisrallah to press his own
attacks, using the loose clothing he wore to make the attacks
less serious than Simyn would like.
Sir Victor closed the gap to the equally muscled Sharnazim
with a rush, holding his blade level like a spear. The man was
not prepared for such a tactic, and the sword impaled him
clean through his gut. Unfortunately for the knight, such a
tactic left him open to attack as well. Even as blood began to
pour from the wound, Ny'ka used his might to push the
crescent-tip of his own blade into Sir Victor's ribs. Sir Victor: 11 EP
Light pulsed from the end of Valestar's staff as he stepped
back and turned to face Summer. The energy hit Bisrallah on
the arm, tearing open his garb in a smouldering sizzle.
Stretching out his hand and saying the words necessary for the
spell, Valestar concentrated on the exit and clenched his fist. A
shimmering force held the door fast.
The move came just in time, for Summer moved to the door
and tried to jerk it open. It wouldn't budge. She turned and
saw the Kai jump from the table. Fine. To the death then. She
would wait till he came to her.
The Kai sent his mental blast toward Bisrallah, seizing the
man's mind with a paralytic grip. The Vassagonian tensed and
then fell backwards onto the stairs, leaving Simyn to wonder
what had happened.
He then ran forward to drive his blade into Summer, who
seemed to open herself up to his attack with no attempt to
deflect it. Though the Kai had no way of knowing it, this was
another tactic of the Kai Hunters. By allowing the enemy to do
more damage to them, they ensured they would have an equal
advantage from the proximity.
Though severe pain lanced through her like never before, Solar
Eclipse welcomed it, used it to power her own attack. She
maneuvered slightly and brought the Kai weapon down upon
Sol Hawk's temple. With a sickening crunch, the mace
connected at the same instant she let loose with her mind. Her
shadow encompassed him as he fell. -34 EP (critical hit), -17
WP/EP (whichever applies since I think you are low on WP) You
are unconscious at the least. I don't know your current EP.
***
Commentary
Tier II: Strike from Below (-4 ENDURANCE)
This is a specialized ability, giving the submerged Kai Hunter the ability to propel himself out
of the water and attack an opponent. This ability can only be used if the Kai Hunter is right
below the surface of the water and has something to launch himself off of (like a platform, a
riverbed, a stone outcropping, etc.). As he springs into the air, he is allowed one free attack
using the standard Surprise Round rules. In the round following this action, all attacks are
reduced by 2 because of the strain. (Note: Depending on the surface conditions where the
Kai Hunter lands, an Acrobatics check may need to be rolled to determine if he falls down
when landing.)
Tier III: Pounce (-3 ENDURANCE)
Given his advances in this Dark Discipline, the Kai Hunter can now leap up to 20’ horizontally
from his hiding place and attempt to knock a target down. To determine this, the Kai Hunter
and foe make opposed rolls: the Kai hunter rolls d20 + his Dexterity score, and the target rolls
d20 + his Strength score. If the target is within 10’ of the Kai Hunter, the Kai Hunter can add a
+5 proximity bonus. Note that this cannot be used in conjunction with Preying Mantis.
Tier IV: Sniper’s Bane (-2 ENDURANCE per attack)
Each round, the Kai Hunter can deflect arrows that would normally have hit him. This is
determined before arrow damage is rolled. The maximum number that can be deflected per
round is equal to the Kai Hunter’s Dexterity modifier (minimum 1).
Tier V: Violent Storm (-15 ENDURANCE)
The Kai Hunter may now combine Pounce and Preying Mantis (Endurance loss is covered in
this skill). After pouncing upon a target and attacking it, the Kai Hunter can then make another
attack at each target in range at a +5 bonus to hit, up to a maximum of 5 targets.
Debilitation (Advanced Blighting)
Anyone can give out pain. A Kai Hunter with Blighting can do it more effectively. But only a
master of Blighting can benefit from the giving out of pain. Reminiscent of the fabled
Vampires, the Kai Hunter is now able to leech from his victims with a mere touch.
Tier I: Unarmed Focus (-1 EP per bonus)
As a move action, the Kai Hunter can focus his life energy into his unarmed attack ability when
attempting to use Blighting on a foe. Note this bonus cannot be used for Debilitation attacks.
For each EP spent, there is a +1 to attack and damage bonuses for Blighting attacks, up to a
maximum bonus of +5.
Tier II: Siphon Life (-2 ENDURANCE)
As a full round action, the Kai Hunter can create a negative gradient within himself that pulls
life force out of whatever foe he strikes. In other words, a successful unarmed attack against an
opponent transfers EP from the opponent to the Kai Hunter. If the attack is successful, it does
1d4 + the Kai Hunter’s Constitution modifier to the target. The damage dealt is considered
lethal, and the Kai Hunter takes a –2 penalty to AC in the round following the attack.
Tier III: Clumsiness (-3 EP per point of ability damage, minimum –3 EP)
This is treated just like Crippling Touch, but the Dexterity lost from the opponent is added
temporarily to the Kai Hunter’s own Dexterity for the duration, which is 1d4+1 rounds.
Tier IV: Weakness (-4 EP per point of ability damage, minimum –4 EP)
This is treated just like Numbing Touch, but the Strength lost from the opponent is added
temporarily to the Kai Hunter’s own Strength for the duration, which is 1d4 rounds.
Tier V: Weakness (-5 EP per point of ability damage, minimum –5 EP)
This is treated just like Fatiguing Touch, but the Constitution lost from the opponent is added
temporarily to the Kai Hunter’s own Constitution for the duration, which is 1d3 rounds. Note
that these EP are temporary, and all damage dealt during the duration comes off them first.
Beginning of Round 6Æ
Rules,
Rulings
ROUND 6
I'm charging the brute
ending up on E12,
giving me and sir
Victor a nice little
flanking bonus of +2
(if he's not immune to
flanks that is).
As usual I hit my
intended target. As
usual I give him only
2 points of damage...
Full attack
against brute:
Hit: 24, 21 (2 hits)
Damage: 22, 23, for a
total of 45
To his satisfaction his companions had helped Simyn with the annoying sharnazim. "The guards are
coming, we need to leave!" the sage shouted as he ran towards sir Victor who was fighting an
opponent with the skill and grim determination only possessed by the Sommlending knights.
***
Sir Victor gritted his teeth against the pain of his wounds, and fought on, for he could see his enemy's
wounds were far worse than his, and he couldn't stop until he made sure his companions were all
safe.
The sage's adversary suddenly swooned, and Simyn took the opportunity to leap to the knight's help,
suddenly flanking the brute between both of their attacks. The knight restrained himself no longer, it
was past time this fight was ended. Using all his skill and all his considerable strength, he struck the
sharnazim two mighty blows which he would probably not survive.
***
Out of the corner of his eye, Sol Hawk saw Arcadian and Valestar moving to intercept Summer. She
was so strong. He had hit her twice but she had taken the hits and fought harder. But Valestar had
blocked the door. Dear good Valestar. They might fell her now, together.
"Why do this?" said Sol Hawk to her as they fought, "All your speed, your strength. Summer... it isn't
too late. Stop this, it's enough. In the monastery you would be welcomed. You would make an
excellent Kai L..."
OOC: Reduced to 0
WP and 5 EP,
Unconscious
The mace struck him hard and he took it between the eyes in the most unexpected manner. Dizzy
and dazed, Sol Hawk fell over in a lump, managing at least not to fall on his scimitar with Summer's
smirking face staring down on him...
***
Korlaeth rose to his feet, grunting against the pain but smiling all the while. He hesitated for a split
second at what to do, for Hawkeye was far too near the burning table and Arcadian bled profusely,
but then he saw Sol Hawk drop from Summer's heavy blow. She must not be allowed to finish him off.
Attack roll=34,
damage=6. Charge to
E2. AC is 21 until my
next action.
Korlaeth broke into a full run, drawing Tava'ryn's khanjar from his belt. He had eyes only for Summer
and the body of his friend at her feet. He knew she was much more adept at hand to hand combat
then he, but, after all, so had Tava'ryn been. True, he had held a poisoned arrow, then...
He slashed with the dagger at Summer's mace arm, drawing a red line across her hand and forearm.
He spun and ran his back into the wall to stop his momentum and continued to smile his vast
confidence that he and his friends would win the day.
"Greetings from Dessi and from Tava'ryn!"
***
Commentary
Feral Embrace (Advanced Feral Touch)
The Kai Hunter has gone from merely
reaching out and touching the wild animals of
nature to embracing them, as well as the
monsters that inhabit the lands. In fact, he has
internalized some of this ferocity to the extent
that he exudes it. As a bonus, all Handle
Animal checks against domestic animals are
increased by +5 automatically. Against wild
animals, it increases by the Tier.
Tier I: Monstrous Bond
Tiers I-III of Feral Touch may now apply to
monsters as well as animals. The creature’s
Will saving throw gets a +8 bonus in these
circumstances, but it is reduced by the Kai
Hunter’s Tier in this Discipline.
Tier II: Stride of the Elix
(-1 ENDURANCE)
Once per day as a move action, the Kai Hunter
can gain a burst of speed, up to an additional
50’ per round. For every EP spent, the base
movement is increased by 10’ for a number of
rounds equal to the Kai Hunter’s Tier.
Tier III: Brawn of the Baknar
(-5 ENDURANCE)
Once per day as a move action, the Kai Hunter
can empower himself with sheer brawn force
to be used in any non-combat situation. For
every 5 EP spent, the Kai Hunter can increase
his Strength by 2. However, for every +2
increment, the Kai Hunter must then spend 10
minutes resting from the strain.
Rules,
Rulings
Arcadian watched, helpless as the mace struck Sol Hawk on the side of the head.
Everything seemed to move in a slow-motion deja vu as Sol Hawk fell. The
Vakeros watched as Summer snickered and with an animal roar that erupted
from deep inside him Arcadian held his sword high and swung.
Attack 1: 21 (hit)
Attack 2: 29 (hit)
Damage 1: 9
Damage 2: 14
The blue-steel blade lashed across her chest, blazing with all of its cobalt fury.
She still smiled at Arcadian, seemingly unaffected. Intent on taking her down
Arcadian grasped the mace with his free hand and pushed it away from him,
bringing his shoulder up to connect with her chin.
Total Damage: 23
Stunned, Summer stumbled back. Arcadian advanced upon her, his sword
flickering with its soulfire. The cobalt flames reflected in the coldness of
Arcadian's dark eyes as he stared at his enemy.
About my position on the
map: I had posted in my
round 5 actions that
Arcadian was going to
follow Summer as she
retreated. Then he would
have enacted his attack
(miss). Now, since I
assume she hasn't
moved, I would benefit
from a full round attack
action.
"Die."
Arcadian grasped Summer's shoulder with one hand and used his other to drive
his sword hilt-deep into her chest. Arcadian mustered up all the blood that was
flowing from his mouth and spit it in her face, much of it now running down his
chin. He was shaking from his wounds and his anger but he had enough strength
to twist the blade.
"I said die."
***
Whew! Just hit her. Hey,
remember when I used to
think the mage was
weak? Well... I was
wrong. Defenitely wrong.
It just takes a few levels,
is all.
Attack 18 (barely hit) and
damage 20. With the
other attacks, I assume
this kills her. Even if not,
this is only Valestar's
perception of the events.
It shouldn't interfere with
anything you had
planned, Kai Lord.
Valestar saw Sol Hawk go down under Summer's. To his surprise, the others
didn't seem too concerned. Maybe this was something that happened often? But
they were fast to respond. Korlaeth, whom Valestar had given up for dead, was
on Summer much faster than most poisened people would be, and Arcadian
moved with the feline grace and confidence that was always his in battle. Yet,
Summer withstood even their combined efforts. So, it was up to him, then.
Valestar calmed his spirit. He knew that this would be the end for the vicious
woman. He hoped that it brought her not damnation in Naar's halls, but rather
redemption in the eye's of Kai. He did not know. He had not yet learned the
secrets of life and death; the afterlife and whatever it contained was a door that
was closed to him. And yet, he would be opening it for Summer.
The fireball shot through the air, darting past Sol Hawk's prone form. Valestar
saw Summer see it's approach, and realized she was going to dodge. He'd seen
her move ungodly fast. He did not doubt she could dodge this blast. And yet, at
the last minute, she stood her ground. Almost as if she had decided to take death
itself on. That was the last Valestar saw of her face. A second later, it was
engulfed in fire.
move action to D7, move
action to assist Hawkeye.
With that taken care of, Valestar ran to help Hawkeye out from under the burning
table. "How is Sol Hawk?" he yelled across the room to Arcadian and Korlaeth.
For the next 2 rounds,
nothing much will
happen:
Arcadian hovered near Solar Eclipse, lashing out with his blue steel now that his
friend had fallen clear. Korlaeth darted near and tore into her arm, slamming into
the wall as Valestar's pulse of energy streaked across the room to engulf the
woman.
***
Set'na and Ny'ka will
bleed more. Bisrallah will
become unstunned. The
fire will spread on the
table unless tended to.
The guards will enter.
Sol Hawk will not come to
without a Healing check
at DC20 or a full night's
rest. All your equipment
(aside from what you
carry) and armor and
weapons are in your
rooms. Your horses are
stabled outside.
I remind you of all this in
case you want to make an
effort to flee. There is no
way of knowing how the
guards will handle the
situation. There is no way
to know what awaits you
outside, since Egoliah has
vanished into the night.
Everyone choose a course
of action (you have 12-15
seconds in game time).
From outside, cries of "banou" could be heard.
She collapsed at the same time that Sir Victor and Simyn descended upon the
bare-chested Sharnazim. Their assault left him weaponless and on one knee,
bleeding from a trio of heavy wounds. Nearby, Set'na lapsed into
unconsciousness from blood loss. Bisrallah merely moaned where he lay on the
stairs.
The fire on the table began to spread more, and the Dessi mage moved to grab
Hawkeye and pull him safely away from the flames.
Simyn's insistence on leaving was sound advice, but although Hawkeye was now
finally able to move again, albeit groggily, Sol Hawk was (once again) hovering
near death. The form of Solar Eclipse fell beside him, smouldering from the
magical blast that had hit her. Once again, the fated septet seemed to cheat
death.
The crowds outside peering in the windows began to cry in protest as the guards
pushed through. Within seconds, they would be in.
***
And it was again that Sol Hawk found himself floating above his body. He was on
the floor... no! The ceiling. Summer's mace had fallen and quite literally knocked
the life out of him. Sol Hawk was at first concerned - had his sacrifice been for
nothing? He had rushed in at Summer knowing full well that her powerful mind
had a Stun attack waiting for him. Sustaining such a blast at short range he knew
would likely be the end of him. Yet he also knew that had she escaped, ah well,
to contemplate what might have happened then was too terrible to imagine.
There had been no choice.
The young Kai had not died, however, for Sol Hawk could see so clearly now that
he in reality had not attacked alone. And in his heart, he knew even as he ran
forward to her, that it had been just the vanguard of the total attack. Cade took
full advantage when she let her guard down, and so also did Korlaeth. Summer
was not yet felled, though - even so, as she moved to retaliate, even as Sol's
unconscious mind felt the tingling that forewards of a psychic killing blow, the old
mage, Valestar, struck her then with a blast of wizardly might. The Kai Hunter
was dead.
And that is how her spirit came to stand now in the realm where Sol Hawk was.
Her body was transparent now, and of course she realized at once what had
happened which drove her mad with anger.
"Ishir weeps for those who die by the dark ways."
Commentary
Tier IV: Tooth and Nail (-6 ENDURANCE)
The ferocity that the Kai Hunter controls in animals has now
become internalized. He himself can make himself more animalistic
once per day under certain conditions. In order to do this, he must
have his hands free and be in light or no armor. As a full round
action, the Kai Hunter can transform his teeth and nails into
hardened, sharpened versions. This allows the Kai Hunter to gain a
claw/claw/attack for 1d6+1 rounds. The attack rolls and damage are
as follows, and they replace the standard attack bonuses:
Attack bonus: ½ NAK Character Level + Dexterity modifier + 3
(18-20 critical range, x2)
Damage: 1d6 + Strength modifier
If both claws hit, the bite automatically hits for an additional 1d4 +
3 rending damage
Tier V: Omega Beast (-5 ENDURANCE)
In a ritual involving the permanent loss of 5 EP, the Kai Hunter can
summon a wild
carnivorous animal of 3-4 ED that will bond with him and become
his unerring and devoted “pet”. If this creature ever dies, the Kai
Hunter will lose another 1d10 EP permanently. Every time the Kai
Hunter increases in level, the creature gains +5 EP.
Relic Binding (Advanced Fetishism)
What manifested itself as a strange compulsion to hold onto or
procure a mundane object has grown into a fear of losing that
object. It is a fear so intense that the Kai Hunter must attempt to
become one with the object and make it part of himself.
Tier I: The Stone Potion
The Stone is ground into a fine powder, brewed in a potion by an
alchemist, and then imbibed by the Kai Hunter. At this time, he
makes a Fortitude check vs. DC15. If he passes, the benefits of the
Stone are his forever. If he fails, the standard penalties apply for the
loss.
Tier II: The Hair Graft
The Hair is implanted into his scalp during a crude surgical
procedure. At this point, another Fortitude check is made vs. DC16.
If he passes, the body doesn’t react adversely to the potentially
dried flesh graft. If he fails, the standard penalties for loss apply, as
the scalp becomes infected and the lock of hair is ruined from the
infection. In addition, the GM may want the Kai Hunter to roll for
potential disease.
Tier III: The Replacement Fangs
The Kai Hunter will remove his own canine teeth and have the
carnivore fangs implanted in a crude surgical cementing procedure.
At this point, another Fortitude check is made vs. DC17. If he
passes, the body doesn’t react adversely to the teeth being put into
the mouth, and the benefits apply. (Note this does not augment Tier
IV of Feral Embrace, once attained.) If he fails, the standard
penalties for loss apply, as the extraction sites become infected and
the teeth become damaged from removal to treat the infection. In
addition, the GM may want the Kai Hunter to roll for potential
disease.
Tier IV: The Blood Transfusion
The captured blood is removed from the vial and injected into the
Kai Hunter. At this point, the Kai Hunter rolls a Fortitude check at
DC15 to represent the possible adverse reaction from injecting an
incompatible blood type. If he passes, the blood is compatible and
will be broken down and reused by his own body. If he fails, the
standard penalty for loss applies, plus a –2 penalty on all Fortitude
saves against ingested poisons.
Tier V: Redemption
The Kai Hunter has either learned to let go of something he once
lost. If a Tier I-IV Fetishism item was lost, it can now be replaced
once for a permanent loss of -1d10 EP. If a Binding failed, it can
now be ignored for a permanent loss of -1d10 EP. If no fetishes
were lost, and all bindings passed, the Trophy (Fetishism Tier V)
carries no penalties for loss.
Kai-Scourge (Advanced Kai-Bane)
Using the power of the five dark gods, the Kai Hunter can augment
the damage he does to Kai Lords. Kai-Bane was merely a sword
that pierced the ribs; Kai-Scourge is the twisting of that sword to
amplify suffering.
Tier I: Whip of Karaushnith (-1 WP)
Against all Kai, psychic attacks now deal an extra 2 EP of damage,
symbolizing the lashing of the god’s whip, and the sadistic effect it
has.
Tier II: Dagger of Tharrayn (-1 ENDURANCE)
Against all Kai, physical attacks that pierce (dagger, spear, arrow,
dart, etc.) cause an extra 2 EP of damage, symbolism of the mad
god’s stabbing fits of insanity. Each attack has its own cost, so that
4 attacks would cost the Kai Hunter 4 EP. This cost is paid before
attack rolls are made.
Tier III: Staff of Vurnos (-1 ENDURANCE)
Against all Kai, physical attacks that smash or bludgeon (staff, club,
mace, etc.) cause an extra 2 EP of damage, symbolizing the
crushing power disease has on mankind. Each attack has its own
cost, so that 4 attacks would cost the Kai Hunter 4 EP. This cost is
paid before attack rolls are made.
Rules,
Rulings
Summer spun round - it was not Sol Hawk who was speaking, but Light Hawk.
Bathed in pure light, the Master above all Masters, this Kai stared down on her
with a gaze that was pure benevolence. The light of his goodness burned on her
skin, and the NAK shouted a profanity, demanding to know what had become of
her sister while accusing Light Hawk of murdering her.
"Me? Poor dear child, don't you know? When you drained the willpower from her
form, ah well, her soul is gone forever."
Solar Eclipse ran to strike at the elder Kai, but the real danger was not here, it
was in her psychic strength. "Grand Master," shouted Sol Hawk, "Her PsiAttack!" But Sol Hawk need have said nothing. Light Hawk knew the thought in
Summer's mind long before she had known it herself. Despite the massive
amount of energy she poured out at the Kai Saint, he stood on serenely as if
enjoying the breeze or a summer rain. Sol Hawk sensed a shield so strong that
even a Kai Hunter could have had no hope to breach it.
Light Hawk bent forward slightly toward her, whispering a single unheard word
into her ear. Summer's eyelids fell and she knelt before the Master, as if in a
trance, then faded from sight.
"Grand Master," said Sol Hawk after some time, "Where has she gone?"
"A person's destiny in death," said Light Hawk, "is already written in parallel with
the deeds endeavored in life. We should not judge her by the few days that we
saw, for her story is a universe. When the tale is told and the scales are
balanced, she will be where she belongs."
Sol Hawk considered the words and knew that they were true. He approached
Light Hawk, and as the paragon smiled, Sol Hawk was struck by how much the
old man reminded him of his father - strong, wise, good. "How did you do it? I
thought that there was no way for a Kai Mindshield to stop her power."
I don't
imagine I have
a lot of stuff in
my room.
Perhaps what
was being
carried on my
donkey. If
everyone else
insists on going
up to get their
stuff, I will get
mine. I lost
track of how
long until the
poison's
secondary
effects take
place, but I'll
go look, if you
like.
To be honest, I
can't
remember if all
the saddlebags
are upstairs, or
just the
alchemical kit.
Tier IV: Scythe of Xhagvash (-1 ENDURANCE)
Against all Kai, physical attacks that slash (sword, axe, etc.) cause an extra 2 EP
of damage, representing Death’s harvest of souls with the most widespread
weapon type. Each attack has its own cost, so that 4 attacks would cost the Kai
Hunter 4 EP. This cost is paid before attack rolls are made.
Tier V: Axe of Naar (-20 ENDURANCE)
If a critical roll on a Kai does damage, the Kai Hunter can opt to expend his own
life force in an attempt to end the confrontation. The Kai Hunter must make a
Fortitude saving throw against a DC = the damage of the critical hit + 5. If the Kai
fails, he dies. This is symbolic of the Executioner’s Axe falling upon the Kai.
Psi-Surge
Much like the Kai learn to augment their own formidable mental abilities, so too
do the Kai
Hunters. Instead of mere damage, the Kai Hunters focus on altering some physical
state of
the victim.
Tier I: Force of Personality
All psychic damage dealt from the Kai Hunter now has the Charisma modifier
added to it.
This cannot be used in conjunction with Whip of Karaushnith.
Tier II: Stupor (-4 ENDURANCE, -6 WP)
The weakest form of attack in this Discipline can cause the target to suffer from
one of the
following effects for one round if they fail a Will save at a DC equal to the Kai
Hunter’s
Character level +5: Dazed, Dazzled, Deafened, Fatigued, Shaken, or Stunned.
"What you saw was a power beyond the Mindshield and exists beyond the realm
of the ten Disciplines along the path that Sun Eagle first took. Along the path of
The Magnakai. It is a path fated for you, Sol Hawk. And you must embrace it. If
you are to face Egoliah again and protect the land that is yours, you must pass
into the realm that Kai Masters tread."
Tier III: Malaise (-4 ENDURANCE, -10 WP)
Having understood how to further alter mental states, the Kai Hunter can cause the
target to
suffer from one of the following effects for one round if they fail a Will save at a
DC equal to the Kai Hunter’s Character level +5: Cowering, Exhausted,
Frightened, Nauseated, or
Panicked.
"Grand Master," said Sol Hawk, "Those teachings are difficult and can take years
to master. Am I truly ready? And Sir, with all respect, those teachings are
passed down just from a superior Kai Master to his student. Here in Vassagonia
there is no one who can teach me."
Tier IV: Impairment (-5 ENDURANCE, -12 WP)
Not quite the pinnacle, this ability can considerably alter an encounter. The target
will suffer from one of the following effects for one round if they fail a Will save
at a DC equal to the Kai Hunter’s Character level +5: Blinded or Disabled.
The Kai Grand Master smiled as he regarded the younger man. "I will teach
you," Light Hawk said.
Tier V: Catatonia (-10 ENDURANCE, -20 WP)
The strongest form of attack in this Discipline can only be achieved by a vast
usage of the
Kai Hunter’s psychic reserves. Use of Catatonia could deplete his psychic reserve,
however, leaving him as defenseless as the smallest child when it comes to
psychic attack. However, it leaves his foe as defenseless as a child physically. If a
target fails a Will save at a DC equal to the Kai Hunter’s Character level +5, for
one round it will be Paralyzed.
***
Suddenly, it was all over. Korlaeth stumbled a little, still feeling poison in him,
but he looked at the faces of the crowds outside through the windows, then at
the door that would soon reveal Sharnazim guards, probably well-paid by
Egoliah.
"We need to leave now." Korlaeth said, loud enough to be heard by his friends.
He looked down at Sol, concerned, but knew that Arcadian was far more skilled
in the healing arts. Korlaeth leaned still against the wall behind him, unwilling to
show that he was somewhat weak on his feet. He resheathed his khanjar and
watched carefully outside wherever he could see.
Psi-Shield
A creature that has psychic abilities is faced with tougher decisions than those
without such awareness. Should it hold onto its Willpower so it can defend? Or
should it expend it bit by bit in attacks? Or should it exhaust it and hope to
overwhelm a foe? As seen in Psi-Surge, use of Willpower to attack can be
tempting. But a Kai Hunter’s defensive psychic abilities have an offensive edge,
too. Each tier blocks Psi-Surge attacks of the same tier, in addition to doing the
following:
***
Valestar, having gotten Hawkeye free and sure that his friend was alive and able
to move on his own, ran across to where Summer and Sol Hawk had fallen.
Summer's body was still burning. Fighting naseau, Valestar pushed it away from
Sol Hawk and bent down beside the Kai Lord. Valestar had always been a
paranoid man, and had always been afraid that his magic may fail him one day.
Thus, in order to prepare for such an occurence, he had diligently studied more
mundane arts. One of these was the art of healing. Using secret pressure point
techniques passed down by the Elder Magi, Valestar was able to stop Sol Hawk's
bleeding very quickly. Heal check passed at 29
Hearing the noises coming from outside, and recognizing their precarious
position, Valestar asked the others what they planned to do.
"That's a lot of equipment to leave behind, if we flee," he said. "At least, for me
there is. I'll flee if we must. But will that help our cause? Perhaps we can explain
to the authorities our position? Surely they'll be willing to help us in our attempt
to rid the dessert of this Egoliah scourge."
***
Time had passed differently in the other realm, but now somehow Sol Hawk had
returned to his body as Valestar made use of his secret technique. "Master
Mage," he whispered, smiling, "I thank you." Sol Hawk's head felt like it was
splitting open. If there were any better proof than this that he had returned to
life, perhaps it was the shooting pain where Valestar had extricated Egoliah's
very dagger from his side. But he was alive. Maybe Light Hawk had been right.
Perhaps fate did have more in store for him.
(not an action)
Delay - my
Initiative is
now 2 to follow
Valestar's Heal
(move)
Sheathes
Swords
(move) obtains
Mace
(free) speaks
Commentary
Fumbling, he sheathed the silver scimitars, then rolled himself nearer to where
Summer had fallen. Her corpse was burning and he could hardly get near her,
but driven by some feeling, he knew at first not what, he knew that he had to
get to her mace. And he knew that if they were to have any ally in Teph, it
would be the female Kai that Egoliah had spoken of. He claimed the heavy object
and then propped himself into a seated position, comforted to see the Vakeros
beside him - one peering out the window and searching for the best route of
escape, the other in constant motion and ready for anything. The sounds of
battle were all around, and though he could not see them, he could hear Simyn
and Sir Victor fighting still somewhere in the room.
Tier I: Deflection
A Kai Hunter can use his formidable mind to screen out incoming damage.
Psychic Damage from Psychic Combat is decreased by this Discipline’s Tier.
Tier II: Fortification
Through exercise, the Kai Hunter has learned how to tighten his mental defenses.
The
Psychic AC gains a bonus of +2.
Tier III: Absorption
If a Psychic Attack directed in Psychic Combat does not do any damage, the Kai
Hunter can use that residual energy to repair his own defenses. Note that the
maximum Willpower cannot be exceeded this way.
Tier IV: Misdirection (-2 WP)
Like a true shield, the Psychic Shield now deflects incoming attacks randomly at
another creature present within range. This could be friend or foe that it is
redirected towards, for the GM decides.
Tier V: Reflection (-4 WP)
There is nothing more humiliating than being defeated or slain by one’s own
weapon. The
Kai Hunter has now learned to utilize his Willpower to deflect incoming attacks
back at the attacker. When this happens, the Kai Hunter rolls 2d6; the lower of the
two rolls is what the attacker takes. Note that the attacker has no defense against
his own psychic energy.
Rules, Rulings
Can I assume that I have my leather armour on me? I
have assumed that I put it on in the morning. I haven't
mentioned it though. Otherwise I only carry my money and my
rapier and my poignard. The crossbow and all my other stuff is in
my room. If we will flee I will surely miss my telescope, it has
served us well.
"There is a Lyrisian saying, 'better flee, than fence poorly'. It's
actually a Swedish proverb but it felt strangely suitable to our
present situation. Is it possible to climb onto the roof and flee
that way?
I'll get another post in tomorrow evening or Saturday, but
until then, Sir Victor would really like to go back to the rooms for
his armour and equipment. Also, he would never abandon his
war horse Bright Lance, which is in the stables.
Q: Can I assume that I have my leather armour on me? I have
assumed that I put it on in the morning. I haven't mentioned it
though.
A: It doesn't violate the MFW rule (whose intent is to keep "I
meant to do that" from altering something bad, ex post facto),
so that's fine with me.
Q: Is it possible to climb onto the roof and flee that way?
A: Yes. It would require some climb checks, depending on
where/how you wanted to get up there. Most dwellings in the
desert have flat rooves...but the nearest building is 10' away on
either side.
Q: Korlaeth bent down and retrieved Egoliah's dagger
A: Not really a Q&A, but I'd like to comment here: The dagger is
made with a hollow handle, which has two compartments on it.
There are small release levers near the top of the handle and
grooves that run through the blade, with small holes along the
channels created by the grooves.
1. Fill the handle.
2. Flick the release while stabbing or slightly before stabbing.
3. Poison flows from one chamber down the channels.
Note: Poison must be modified (alchemically) to be mixed
without some sort of antagonistic effect.
I'm going to assume that Valestar has the saddlebags in his
room, since that's what he's been doing previously (though how
he gets them up there is beyond me!). In any case, they are too
heavy to retrieve with any sort of speed. But Valestar would die
before he'd leave Varsuvial behind.
Suggested game plan by Sol
OK, looks like we have to do this the hard way (!) then. We're
going to have to go upstairs (Sir Vic should be first since he
needs time to get his armour on) and I can go with him to help
him don the armour (I am useless in combat right now).
Meanwhile (and fast) Simyn, Hawk, Korlaeth, Valestar need to
off our last enemies, retreating toward the stairs. Korlaeth, if you
make it look as if the stairs are burning (maybe the rest of the
room too) this will stop the guards from following us - buy us a
little time.
Once we have our stuff, we have to escape from whatever side
of the building the stables are on. I am guessing we will have to
drop onto the roof of that building.
Unfortunately, this move will be anticipated. Of course the
guards will expect it. So maybe a diversion - Hawk could do it - I
could also - running along the rooftops in sight of them while the
others dodge into the stables. Let's decide all that later once we
are on the roof.
If Korlaeth agrees Arcadian will ask Sol Hawk to make sure and
grab his armor (which is the only thing that Cade has up in his
room). He already has all of his weapons and belongings, but he
left his armor under the bed in his room.
If Korlaeth doesn't agree than Arcadian will agree to escape with
the others as a group, but he will not leave his armor nor Iri at
any cost. Even his life.
Sol, Cade has given you a Laumspur potion (4d4+4). Enjoy.
Act VIa, Conclusion
– Flying Near the
Web
As Valestar mused and considered
the possibility of talking to the
guards, Sol Hawk weakly shook
his head - he agreed with Korlaeth
and Simyn. "If the guard has
arrived, Egoliah has planned it.
There is no comfort here. We must
leave it all behind. Unless... Cade,
you know a way?" Sol Hawk
remembered the escape-ladders
positioned at each room. "Perhaps
we can escape from the roof and
hope that the flames granted by
thee, Master Mage, will cover our
escape."
***
"We will never escape in time with
you in your current condition.
Unless..." Valestar thought hard
for a moment, but didn't want to
say what was on his mind. If it
came to the worst, Valestar knew
what he could do.
***
"There is a Lyrisian saying, 'better
flee, than fence poorly'.
***
As the discussion progressed,
Korlaeth bent down and retrieved
Egoliah's dagger, with which he
had been poisoned.
***
Arcadian watched as Solar
Eclipse's eyes closed in death and
she slipped to the floor. He pulled
his blade free and for good
measure, took off her head in one
fell swipe. Thinking quickly he
picked up the mace that she had
fought with and did a quick search
of her person.
I am doing a quick search only,
what Cade could find in about 5
seconds perhaps.
Sol Hawk limped over. Arcadian
handed him the barbed mace.
"If the guard has arrived, Egoliah
has planned it. There is no
comfort here. We must leave it all
behind. Unless... Cade, you know
a way?" Sol Hawk remembered
the escape-ladders positioned at
each room. "Perhaps we can
escape from the roof and hope
that the flames granted by thee,
Master Mage, will cover our
escape."
Arcadian considered. "The Vassan
hate the banou above all else.
Perhaps if Korlaeth and I were to
flee the rest would be left alone."
Cade downed one of his laumspur
potions and handed his second
and last to Sol Hawk, "quickly,
drink this."
Then he yelled over to Korlaeth,
"how about it, brother?! You and
I, dressed in our blue-steel, can
lead the Sharnazim away from the
others. Sol Hawk cannot escape
nor fight in his condition. If we
distract the Sharnazim with the
scent of blue blood then they
should follow us."
***
Time was running short.
"We don't have time to dilly dally,"
said Valestar. "If we're going to
flee, we should flee. If we are to
stand and fight, then we should do
that. But to try and do both?"
Commentary
Misdirection (Advanced Obscurement)
Staying hidden while moving is good, but sometimes staying hidden while
moving is needed. The Kai Hunter starts learning how to detect things better,
then how to hide things better, and finally how to hide himself better by
building upon what he learned with Obscurement.
Tier I: Now You See It
The ability to discover facades and ruses is important, as is the ability to find
hidden things (both words and people) that are not what they seem. The Kai
Hunter can now add a bonus equal to his Tier in all checks that involve
discovery: Appraise, Gather Information, Perception, Sense Motive.
Tier II: Now You Don't
Drawing upon his innate ability to fool and mislead, the Kai Hunter now
gains a bonus equal to his Tier in all checks that involve deceit: Bluff,
Disguise, Forgery. Note that this does not apply to Stealth, due to the
numerous other bonuses the class receives.
Tier III: Passing Shadows (-1 ENDURANCE/ROUND)
This is an advanced version of Still of the Night, which bestows the bonus
gained from that skill when moving up to 5'/round in the same conditions.
Tier IV: Augmented Boon (-2 ENDURANCE/ROUND)
This is an advanced version of Boon of Stillness, which bestows the bonus
gained from that skill when moving up to 1/4 base movement in the same
conditions.
Tier V: Assassin's Edge (-3 ENDURANCE/ROUND)
This is an advanced version of Infiltrator's Edge, which bestows the bonus
gained from that skill when moving up to 1/2 base movement in the same
conditions.
Stalking (Advanced Seeking)
Living up to their name, the Kai Hunter has a variety of skills that allow him
to follow his prey and avoid becoming prey himself.
Tier I: Aural Sight (-2 WP)
Useful for tracking a target in a city where trails and tracks can be instantly
obliterated, this ability allows the Kai Hunter to imbue a creature within his
line of sight with a glow that only he can see. This glow lasts for up to 24
hours and cannot be covered with any manner of disguises.
Tier II: Hindsight
The Kai Hunter knows instinctively when someone has started tracking him.
He does not know who it is, why they are tracking him, or how close they are,
but he does know when he is being followed and can therefore be prepared.
Tier III: Minor Psychomancy (-6 WP)
The Kai Hunter can determine if a certain person has touched an object within
the last 24 hours based on psychic residue. This is a simple yes or no ability,
and does not share anything else in common with the Dessi Mage ability with
the same name.
Tier IV: Precognition (-5 ENDURANCE)
The Kai Hunter can perceive whether or not danger awaits him in a certain
direction, up to a 5’ path extending 50’ in front of him. Barriers do not affect
this, but once the path is determined, it cannot be moved to scry around. By
making a Concentration check against a variable DC (chosen by GM, never
less than 25), the Kai Hunter can gain a vague insight as to whether or not
danger awaits him. There is no indication as to what it is—it could be an
assassin, a hungry wild animal, or a spike-filled pit trap. (Sound judgment
should be used in deciding whether something is “dangerous” as even a
pebble can be dangerous if trapped in someone’s windpipe. GM’s are
encouraged not to get nitpicky with this, for the Kai Hunter has come a long
way to reach this Tier.) If the Kai Hunter passes the DC by 5 or more, he
should get some sort of quantification of danger (that is, learning that there
are “6 thugs ahead” instead of “a group of hostile people” ahead). If the Kai
Hunter passes the DC by 15 or more, he should gain specific details as to
what the danger is.
Tier V: Lingering Thoughts (-5 EP, -5 WP)
There is no surpassing this level of tracking, short of magical scrying. By
focusing on the surroundings, a Kai Hunter can track a creature psychically
by the mental residue left by its thoughts. The Kai Hunter makes a Will
saving throw against a DC of the target’s character level + 10. This is useful
if the creature crossed water or entered a terrain which rendered usual
tracking skills useless (sewers, at sea, in a blizzard, etc). Tracking a creature
with Mindshield raises the DC by 5; Psi-Screen raises the DC by 10; KaiScreen makes the target untrackable using this ability.
Note that failure to find a psychic trail still drains the associated cost of using
this discipline.
(Example: Grim Storm is tracking a Kai named Sun Hawk. He rolls a Will
save and gets a 23. He tells the GM this, and the GM references Sun Hawk’s
information. He is a level 16 Kai with Psi-Screen. That means the DC for the
roll was 26. The Kai Hunter then looks around and finds other tracks. Was
Sun Hawk alone? He then searches for the psychic residue from these other
tracks, rolling a 19 in the process. The GM checks Simyn’s info. He is a level
14 Sage, so the trail is found. Grim Storm smiles wryly as he sets off toward
Lyris, for the Kai’s friendship with the Sage would be his undoing.)
Rules,
Rulings
Sol Hawk nodded his head at the Mage's wise words. "Very well, Master Valestar is
correct. Let us not divide our number until we are on the roof and see what we are
up against. Cade," said Sol Hawk, gratefully taking the Laumspur, "I will find your
armour. Let us escape upstairs and make our next choice from there. I believe the
ladder you used last night may serve us again before we are through," said Sol
Hawk, remembering that the ladder had broken free from its mooring, yet could still
be positioned in a place they could reach it.
Sol Hawk raised his hand to send an arrow toward the foe Simyn and Sir Victor were
fighting, but his powers were spent. He was utterly exhausted. In anticipation of the
Laumspur's healing properties, he raised the bottle to his lips...
I'm moving towards
the stairs. If there are
any obstacles, feel
free to roll any
Acrobatics or Athletics
or whatever needed.
***
"Sounds like a plan. Let's flee up those stairs and then we take it from there!" Simyn
began moving towards the stairs, taking the straightest way avoiding any obstacles
on his way.
***
"Then we'd better hurry. Quick, upstairs!" urged the knight. He crossed the room in
three strides to Sol and offered his help to climb the stairs.
Is there another
entrance besides the
windows? If there's
only the one entrance
then I'm readying the
spell. If Valestar
senses that the guards
are close to the door,
he'll cast force barrier
on it.
***
Valestar listened carefully. He was prepared to summon his energy and cast force
barrier on the inn door again. He followed the others upstairs, taking up the rear.
From what I've
heard so far, I'm
thinking that we're
running to the roof
with stops in only a
couple rooms to grab
items that are easily
carryable (meaning,
no alchemy set, I'll
expect you guys to
replace that!). Oh,
and nix on the force
barrier. Seems my
magics may be stored
for a better purpose.
We'll head
upstairs with everyone
else. I'm carrying
everything I can't bear
losing already, so I
can find out which
window's best for the
others and then an
opposite window
which will be good for
Arcadian and I to
distract from.
Warmastery (Advanced Warcraft)
Tier I: Ambidexterity
The Kai Hunter has learned to use each hand effectively in combat.
The penalty for twohanded fighting is reduced by (or augmented
by) his Dexterity modifier.
Tier II: Fury's Focus (-1 ENDURANCE*)
Group combat is taxing and dangerous. The Kai Hunter can offset
some of this by allowing his anger to drive his attacks. For every 1
EP he spends, he can add a +1 bonus, divided any way he chooses,
between any number of foes. The maximum EP that can be used in
this way is 10.
Tier III: Equality
When facing an armed opponent, the Kai Hunter can add a +5 on
his disarm attempt. If it succeeds, the opponent is disarmed and the
weapon is out of his grasp. This applies also to shields.
Tier IV: Splinter
The Kai Hunter has learned that destroying the weapons and
equipment of his foes can be both unnerving and beneficial. He
gains a +5 bonus to both the attack roll and damage toward leather
or wooden weapons, armor, or objects for the purpose of destroying
it. So finely tuned is this ability that the weapon he uses to strike is
not damaged in the process.
Tier V: Sunder
The above bonus now applies to metallic and stone objects as well.
Lone Wolf and the entire world of Magnamund are copyright Joe
Dever, 1984-present
Korlaeth's ears perked up at Arcadian's choice of words. It's amazing how a life or
death situation can bring people together. Then again, perhaps their earlier
conversation had more of an impact than he thought. Korlaeth was about to answer
when Sol Hawk spoke up.
"let us not divide our number..."
The Lone Wolf RPG is copyright August Hahn and Mongoose
Publishing, 2004-present
Kai Hunters and their class are copyright “SilentStorm”, 2004present (initials JCW)
Korlaeth caught Arcadian's eye and placed a hand on his blue steel dagger. A
mischievous smile sprang into place.
"Think you can keep up, banou?"
***
The bright, glowing liquid flowed into Sol Hawk and soon its power was coursing
through him. The throbbing pain in his head subsided, and as his skull knitted back
into place (+12 EP), Sol Hawk realized just how close to death he had been.
Arcadian had saved his very life - yet another time. "I thank you, brother. Perchance
one day I might repay your kindness. For now, take this, for your bravery." Sol
unclasped a vial of red-orange liquid - the Alether. This he handed to Cade , knowing
that the bottle would soon find its use in the warrior's hands. Deducted Alether
Potion from my character sheet - this is for Cade.
Gratefully accepting Sir Victor's help, Sol moved up the stairs to the second floor. He
paused only to take a rope and Sun Flare, the weapon that had long ago belonged to
Light Hawk. The remaining heavy saddlebags he did not take. As he helped Sir Victor
don his heavy armour, Sol Hawk turned and spoke to Korlaeth.
"Korlaeth, your powers of illusion have helped us greatly before. Will they help cause
a distraction one we reach the roof? We will all do better on our dangerous climb
should the eyes of the guards be fixed elsewhere."
Sol Hawk was looking better already, and the characteristic twinkle had returned to
his eye. He was clearly returning to his old self. WotS x 4
***
Simyn ran up the stairs, rapier in hand ready to cut down anyone or anything that
would dare stop him. He ran into his room and began packing his belongings. He was
careful to tuck away his telescope and his magic possessions. He saw that the magic
beads were around his wrist. Their magic could probably save his life if he had to
climb the roof.
"What about Starfall? He has a been a good horse and I would not want to leave him
behind."
The sage put such thoughts aside. They had to escape and that quickly. What would
the Lyrisian sages say if he had lost his life because his love to a horse?
***
Suddenly Valestar stoppped. Something had been niggling at him, and he now knew
what it was.
"Varsuvial!" He said. "I cannot leave without Varsuvial! He has been a constant
companion to me!"
***
Perception check was
a crappy 9.
***
Korlaeth grimaced inwardly at his current condition as he stood up from retrieving
the dagger.
"...how about it, brother?..."
See Commentary
Commentary
Korlaeth shook his head even as Sol spoke, "My powers of illusion are limited to one
person at a time, unfortunately. It may cause a little confusion, but I fear what you
desire is a little beyond my capabilities."
He grimaced as the wound in his chest pained him afresh, then shook his head in
amazement. Sol had given him an anti-toxin earlier! Korlaeth quickly drew it out and
downed the contents, hoping it would help alleviate the poison still in him. As the
others gathered their things, Korlaeth moved to the window in his room and carefully
peered out, attempting to judge where most of the guards were located. Then he
swiftly moved to a room across from his and did the same.
Re: Valestar’s Questions, more details
One main door to the common room. 14 windows into
the common room (about half of them shattered from
fleeing patrons). At least one entrance to the outside
in the kitchens, for that is where Bisrallah and Set'na
came from.
On both floors above the common room, each
separate room has a window in it.
From a second floor window, it is another 12-15' to
the roof. From a third floor window, it is 4-6' to the
roof. You have no idea which third floor rooms are
occupied or unoccupied. It would be a safe bet that
several are unoccupied (yet may be locked) due to
the performance before the melee downstairs.
Based on the options I'm seeing discussed:
Climb DC from 2nd floor window to roof (ladder won't
help since it reaches 2nd floor window): DC15, DC12
(2nd to 3rd, 3rd to roof, failure = fall, 15' from 2nd
floor, 25' from 3rd floor)
Climb DC from 3rd floor window to roof: DC12 (failure
= fall, 25')
Climb bonus for a helping hand = Str bonus of helper
Climb bonus for rope = +2
Athletics DC for jump from roof to another equal
height roof, 10' away: DC12 (failure = fall, 25', risk of
hitting a wall on the way down)
Athletics DC for jump from roof to stables, 10' away
but 15' down: DC7 (failure = fall 15', sprain, fracture,
or crashing through the roof on a natural 1)
Athletics bonus for a helping hand = +2
Acrobatics checks can be used on all falls unless you
are trying to move equipment in addition to yourself.
Then the choice is to save the equipment at the
expense of your own health, or risk damaging it to
keep from hurting yourself so badly.
Stealth check to avoid being seen while climbing:
DC18
Stealth check to avoid being seen while jumping:
DC13
You're automatically seen if you fall.
I'll also assume dispatching the enemies (Set'na,
Ny'ka, Bisrallah) takes place as you run past them.
Now let's go use some Fate Points!
Rules, Rulings
Arcadian stopped only to grab his armor. Instead of bothering to put it on he threw the sack over his shoulder and joined the others.
Sol Hawk handed Arcadian the Alether potion and the Vakeros Knight nodded gratefully. He offered his hand which the Kai Lord
quickly shook in earnest.
"It is always a pleasure to fight by your side, Sol. May we survive this conflict together."
Cade, as Valestar, was loathe to leave his mount behind. But how effective an escape would they make if they returned to the
stables. Perhaps they would be left untouched and they could return later, perhaps not. Cade thought of Iri, and how faithfull of a
mount she had been to him. The chestnut horse had been a favorite of his, one of the best he had ever had the pleasure of owning.
He had loved her since the moment Sol Hawk had told him her name. And now...to leave her behind... Cade sighed, restlessly.
"Can we really afford to go to the stables? For now we must escape the Sharnazim patrols...we can come back to claim them later if
we must. I too am loathe to leave behind my horse. And yet we must place our own lives ahead of them."
Cade knew that Sir Victor felt even stronger about his warhorse. A knight of Sommerlund was said to have a bond with their mount
that was as strong as two lovers'.
Korlaeth kept shooting Cade a look that he was able to read easily. Korlaeth felt the same way as he did. If it came to it Korlaeth
and Arcadian would leave the others in order for them to flee to safety. As they made their way towards the window Arcadian
pushed aside his fears, remembering the Vakeros code. He spoke it aloud, and welcomed the warming feeling that enveloped him
from hearing the words.
"A Vakeros considers himself already dead, so there is nothing to lose. The worst has already happened to him, therefore he’s clear
and calm; judging him by his acts or by his words, one would never suspect that he has witnessed everything."
Korlaeth finished the last half of the code with him, and Arcadian smiled for what seemed like the first time in a long time.
***
Sol considered as the group gathered their things. "Egoliah will find us soon," said Sol Hawk, "For soon he will discover that the Kai
Hunters and his Sharnazim Assassins have failed him." Sol Hawk helped Cade and Sir Victor as he could with their armour. Hawkeye
had positioned himself at the stair as a lookout. "As for my mount, he is his own spirit and I do not own him. He will find a new place
in the world - it was our destiny to be together for a time, but we are not bound." Sol Hawk continued. "Whether we can retrieve our
mounts is not the question, however, for assuredly we can. The more important question is only this: where shall we take them?"
Sol Hawk stole a glance out of the nearby window - he hoped his keen senses would serve and that we could see how many of the
Sharnazim were now about. Especially he was keen to know if any were attempting to rise to meet them through the window itself.
"Korlaeth, you seem to have found several contacts in this city already. Do you have a trusted ally left in this city who could hide us
until the morn? It will be your knowledge only that can decide whether rescuing our mounts is feasible or only folly. Only a stable
could hold them while we sleep, and we cannot leave Teph now."
OOC: Perception out window:
13, nat 1 ouch my head!
Sol Hawk considered. "Or perhaps we should use this," said Sol Hawk, holding up the forged document he had acquired earlier in the
First City. "We can use this to gain access to the Second City and perhaps our only chance is now. If we wait until the news of our
deeds is known, then there shall be no easy access for us to that place. And perhaps nearer to him is the last place Egoliah will think
to find us.
"What say you, Korlaeth? If we are to make our escape, do you know a place where we can go?"
***
The knight quickly gathered his few belongings, quaffing a potion of Laumspur at the same time and offering one to Sol. Although by
the time they reached the rooms, the Kai lord looked a lot healthier already, his wounds and bruises disappearing before the knight's
surprised eyes. "You are blessed by Kai my friend, I shudder to think of what would happen to Sommerlund were we not aided by
the Kai monks."
OOC: Thanks SV! I will leave the
Laumspur with you, however perhaps another will need it
shortly and Sol is looking good
again.
We're still on a loose round-byround basis. That is, no need to
break your actions up into
double-move or move-standard,
but don't post a whole half hour's
worth of actions either. Everyone
has been doing fine.
Then, he reached into his bags and pulled out a good length of sturdy rope.
"Here, I have a rope to help us climb to the roof." The knight looked slightly apprehensive at that, for he wasn't really at ease unless
his two feet were firmly on the ground or in stirrups.
***
"Sir Victor, you are too kind - and always prepared." Sol was impressed that the rope was ready, and put a kindly hand upon his
countryman's shoulder, sensing the Knight's understandable hesitation concerning a jump from such a height. "If I am not very
much mistaken," said Sol Hawk, "The stables are this way. We should be able to jump onto the roof from here, up the hall. Let us
try to see what awaits us before we leap."
***
Arcadian moved up to Sol Hawk and Victor at the window, "come, we waste time here."
The Vakeros Knight took the rope from Sir Victor and quickly secured it to the roof, giving it a sharp tug to ensure that it was
securely fastened. As soon as he was satisfied Cade turned to Simyn.
Also, do not delete anything from
your character sheets if you
leave it behind. Merely sequester
it away by itself so that you
remember not to use it. There is
a chance you may recover some
of it at some point.
"Simyn, you are the lightest so you should go first. If we go in pairs we will be able to help each other and not strain the rope. So,
Simyn you should go with Valestar. Sol Hawk, I know that your agility and Victor's strength with be a good match. So you two will
go next. Korlaeth and I will bring up the rear."
Whoever goes first and second
out the window, make the
following rolls:
Besides, if Arcadian knew the Sharnazim they would come after Korlaeth and he moreso than any of the others. They were banou,
and the unnatural hatred between their two races was generations in the making. Cade's thoughts drifted to the Vassan boy he had
met in the stables the night before. If only all Vassan were willing to see past the great wars of the past. Truly, in youthfull
innocence, wisdom lay.
Climb DC13 to reach 3rd floor
(adjusted for rope already)
Climb DC10 to reach rooftop
(adjusted for rope already, not
adjusted for helping hand from
someone on rooftop)
Stealth DC18 to avoid detection
Items that would have been difficult to part with under normal circumstances got weighed and judged in an instant on the following
criteria: will this prolong my life or speed my death?
If you fall, reference the above
Acrobatics checks for damage
possibilities
Arcadian knew that if the inn was stormed it would not take the Sharnazim long to reach the second floor and run to the end of the
coridor. Cade knowingly placed himself in danger, loathe to be safely on the rooftops while others could become trapped inside the
inn.
***
Aside from armor, weapons, and a few items, most everything remained behind in the companions' rooms. Luckily, the sacks their
equipment was in had drawstrings, which could double as a makeshift shoulder strap. As everyone crowded into one room, Cade
took the rope from Sir Victor as Sol Hawk leaned out the window.
"I can't see a thing," he said, rubbing his head.
Rules, Rulings
Cade leaned out and looked upward to the rooftop, then down the alley and toward the front of the
Green Oasis Inn. A mob was gathered some 50' away, intent on the happenings inside the common
room. Men in black uniforms were helping one another in through windows while shouts for Kivosha
rang through the night air. People were running up with buckets, presumably full of water. After all,
a fire in a large desert-locked city is no small concern.
"How are we going to tie that to the roof?" snapped Valestar, mourning his alchemy equipment as
Hawkeye stood watchfully by the doorway, seemingly oblivious to all of them.
The Vakeros responded by opening his hand and wrapping the rope around it four times, then
removing his hand, flattening the rope, and wrapping it four times around itself perpendicular to the
first loops. Then he took the free end of the rope and pulled it back through the loops and gave a
sharp tug on both ends. The resulting knot tightened up as he smiled. "Monkey fist knot," he said,
leaning out the window. "It gives weight when you don't have a hook to use and need the rope to
come back to you."
With Sir Victor bracing him from falling out, Cade leaned far back out the window and tossed the
rope masterfully through the railing on the rooftop. The knot bounced the wrong direction, so he was
forced to pull it back down and try again. This time, the knot bounced back off the side after looping
around two posts of the railing. He fed it slack as it fell back down, then he tied a slip-knot behind
the monkey-fist. "Simyn, Valestar." -1 FP
He held the rope out to them as shouts came from the common room below. Hawkeye turned to
inform them. "The fire is spreading beyond their control due to the years-dried wood. It's like
kindling. They are trying to get Sand Mages here to magically snuff the flames."
***
Typical. I rolled a total Climb roll of 8 on my first roll. I roll an
Acrobatics with a total of 16 and a Stealth roll of 10. I have
seemed to pass the Acrobatics roll.
DEX Check: 14
STR Check: 6
Simyn removed his backpack unhooked the crossbow and put two quiver of bolts on the floor. He
also left his saddle and his saddlebags behind. "In the worst case leave the crossbow and the
backpack behind. By the way in the backpack there are 4 potions of laumspur perhaps you should
remove them if possible. They might be useful. Then the sage began to climb. The sage had no
training in the art of climbing and he was not a strong man to that. His dexterity could not help him
here. He felt his muscles bulge as he scaled the rope. Suddenly he felt himself slipping.
"I can't make it, by the stars I just do not possess the strength for this!"
The sage fell.
***
How does this roll effect Valestar? Since we're going in
pairs, is he on the rope when Simyn falls?
EDIT: I'm also noting here that Valestar grabbed two willpower
potions from his stuff while the others were grabbing equipment.
Sigh, so long Winter in a Lemonade Spring!
Whether or not it affects you depends on if you were above
or below him, or whether you are going in tandem side-by-side.
Dexterity check DC12 or Strength check DC10 to remain on the
rope if you are below him; passing either one works. If you are
side by side, the checks are 10 and 8, respectively. Keep in mind
that the rope goes up, across 2 rails, then back down, so tandem
climbing will cause you to act like a weight on a pulley if one
falls. (Ability checks are d20 + bonus/penalty) Either you were
able to move out of the way or hold on or both.
Okay, here's my die rolls:
STR: 18
DEX: 11
CLIMB: 17
CLIMB to ROOF: Rolled a natural 1 for -1, ouch! I'll let Kai Lord
decide and describe the botch.
STEALTH: 10
Valestar wouldn't have made the decision of which way they'd be
climbing, so I'll let one of the others decide how we were doing
it. Either way, I passed. Failed my stealth roll, though.
Climb checks (I'm going last or second to last I think) were
10 and 8. I hope someone else is planning to catch me. Or I
suppose I can lead the diversion from the ground after all...
KL, in all my wanderings around town, did I find anywhere we
might hide out? Obviously, anything suggested by my one known
contact are suspect, as he was fooled by Egoliah.
Simyn!
As the Sage began to fall, Sol Hawk's hand shot out to catch him. But had he been fast enough?
***
Simyn lost his footing, and consequently his grip as he struggled to regain it. He fell with a soft
curse, hoping Valestar could continue on.
Sol Hawk reached out to grab Simyn as soon as her perceived the fall. His hand closed over the
sage's forearm, and Sol Hawk fully expected to feel the sage's weight tear from his grasp or pull him
out as well. But he didn't. In fact, Simyn was either remarkably light, or Sol Hawk had grown
incredibly strong.
"Let go so I can get a better grip!" said Simyn as loud as he dared, clinging onto the windowsill with
his free hand. -1 FP
***
Valestar was not known for his strength, but he was known to have a slight fear of heights, a fear
which was intensified when Simyn plummeted towards him. His natural tendency to get out of the
way of falling objects was improved by the very real threat of falling to his doom, and he managed
to dodge the Sage without it effecting his grip on the rope. Seeing Sol Hawk's amazing catch of the
Sage, and feeling that the situation was under control, he began to climb up the rope. Not an adept
climber, Valestar had to make full use of the building side to make it all the way up. He proved to be
a quick, but noisy climber. By the time he made it to the roof, he was sure the companions had been
heard and probably spotted.
***
Korlaeth's nearly omnipresent smile returned with genuine warmth as he finished the last half of the
Vakeros code with Arcadian. He looked at the ground below their window, searching for a possible
route on the ground should the rest of the group need a distraction.
Or, indeed, if someone fell...
Korlaeth started back and half-reached out a hand as Simyn yelled and fell past. Fortunately, Sol's
quick thinking and quicker arm grabbed him solidly just outside the window.
***
After seeing Simyn fall and Valestar fall, Hawkeye went to the window to see what aid he could
render. Korlaeth had just swung his legs over the edge even as Sol grappled with Simyn.
DEX: 14
STR: 12
Reflex to catch Korlaeth : 14
Strength to hold on: 7
Climb DC13: 20
Climb DC10: 10
If Korlaeth still falls Arcadian will use his climb rolls to make his
way down to the street to help Korlaeth, urging for the others to
continue on without them. If Korlaeth doesn't fall Arcadian will
continue to climb, behind him and Hawkeye, sticking to the rear.
Then Korlaeth slipped. Hawkeye moved with a speed that marked him as a Kai, grapping for
Korlaeth at the last instant...
***
As Arcadian and Korlaeth started to climb to the roof Korlaeth slipped. Wrapping his hand around the
rope to steady himself Arcadian lashed out with his right hand and grasped Korlaeth's, fighting to
hold his grip.
***
Before the rest of the group started climbing, Sir Victor offered Laumspur potions to anyone who
seemed to need healing, most notably the two Vakeros knights and Hawk Eye who had suffered the
worst of the assassins' wrath, besides Sol. "We may as well drink them while we need healing then
leave them behind," he explained, also looking at the potions Simyn was laying on the floor of the
room.
Rules, Rulings
Climb checks: 17, 20
Stealth check: 10
Ok, I'm not carrying anything heavy nor am I carrying a lot in my backpack so I'm taking
them with me. I'm travelling light. Only thing is the weapons. Is it possible to bring them, if not
then they're the first thing to go. But I will grab whatever stuff you guys left like potions and
other small items. So please let me know what you guys left.
Also in this case, I would think I'm the last to go after Cade and Korlaeth. In terms of sequence I
think, Cade would try to catch Korlaeth first and if he fails, then Hawkeye will try and catch him
or both will catch them? As for Valestar, if he does fall and no one else tries to catch him I will
try since all these happen in sequence and me being last. So I will post with the assumption that
I'm bringing up the rear.
Reflex to catch Korlaeth : 22
Strength to hold on : 17
Reflex to catch Valestar : 23
Strength to hold on : 12
Climb vs DC13 : 16
Climb vs DC10 : 13
Stealth vs DC18, autopass score of 24 as long as no nat 1 :26 (phew)
The rolls for climbing and stealth have been modified for armor check penalty of 1.
Ok so now I'm having doubts on my actions since 1. I do not know if Korlaeth falls and caught by
Cade or me, 2. If Valestar falls and anyone caught him and 3. If SV has been detected or not. So
4 possible actions for me for 4 possible outcome. Possible for me to post after these has been
posted or KL, you decide with my rolls.
Oh yeah, I'm back yet again and looks like good timing too, seeing that I have to save you lot
from falling down but can't do much if SV grunts like kalkoth or is it a baknar climbing up a tree.
LOL
Welcome back oh cleaver of evil!
Okay, let's consolidate and recap and move forward all at once.
From now on, Sir Victor's strength bonus is added to all Climb checks, because if you begin to
falter, he'll just pull the entire rope up.
Keep in mind that if two of you try to climb at once, he has to split his bonus between you. So,
for example, one person would get a +2 due to his help, and the other would get +3. Or you can
both roll at +2, and whoever is lower gets the +1 remainder point.
He has been spotted, so everyone else going up will be seen as well. No need for stealth checks
from this point on. Also, in just a few rounds (random), people will be coming down the hallway.
Then, when his turn came, he started up the rope. Bracing his feet
against the outside wall, he pulled himself up, hand over hand, his
biceps fighting against the gravity which was inevitably pulling down
on his body. He was thoroughly concentrated on his task, on the
simple deed of putting one hand above the other, one foot in front of
the other. Suddenly, the wall ended, and he was on the rooftop. It
hadn't been as hard as he thought it would be, but on the other
hand, his single focus on the climb and not falling down may have
alerted the guards to their position...
***
Sol Hawk began to pull Simyn in quickly when he heard Valestar
begin to slide back down the wall now that his counterbalance was
gone from the other side of the rope.
Korlaeth dashed over to grab him and missed. Valestar then fell into
view, a flailing foot contacting Korlaeth's head. The Vakeros grunted
and tried to grab the mage, managing only to get ahold of Valestar's
robes. It was enough however, to slow the man down and allow him
to grab hold of Simyn's legs.
"Hey!" shouted Simyn, now about a third the way in the window, as
the extra commotion from Korlaeth threatened to make him lose his
grip on Sol Hawk, and the extra tug from Valestar's momentum
threatened to make him fall outright, pulling Sol with him.
"Sorry! Had to!" grunted the elder, trying desperately to gain a
foothold and not slip.
Hawkeye reflexively reached to grab Valestar, but it was too late.
The crowded window became less crowded as Korlaeth lost his
balance trying to climb out and missed the rope as he fell. Arcadian
rushed to help, but there was no room! Hawkeye was already there,
holding Korlaeth by one hand, grunting by the strain on his arm and
the angle he had to assume to hold the Vakeros.
Sighing, Sir Victor moved over and helped pull everyone in.
Fortunately for everyone, the fires burning below in the distance had
draw everyone's attention from the three men dangling precariously
out the window all at once. Fate Points all around to cover failed
checks: Simyn, Valestar, Korlaeth
Hawkeye rubbed his overextended shoulder elbow and walked back
to the door. He heard commotion in the common room and saw
shadows moving. "They're coming!" (Out of the frying pan, into the
pressure cooker.)
Sir Victor moved everyone aside. "Let me go first, and then I can
help you all."
The knight blocked everything out but the target 15' above him.
Slowly, so as not to strain the railing with his bulk, the Ruanese
moved to the roof. Just as he was swinging his leg over the low
railing, he heard someone from below.
"Look up there!"
***
Hell, we've been spotted. Arcadian put away his sword and prepared
to unleash a mage bolt at any moment's notice if he needed to.
Climb rolls are 15 and 11 respectively.
So far they had all failed at climbing to the roof. But, perhaps with
Sir Victor at the top they could make it. Victor hesitated when
someone cried out and pointed from below but Arcadian nudged
him.
"Go, we can cover you."
As soon as Victor went Arcadian turned to the others. "Hawkeye,
you have your bow and Simyn, you your crossbow. Once you get to
the roof try and cover the others as they climb up. Victor will help
you climb so no matter what you do...keep hold of that rope."
***
... Unless Valestar can sense when they are about to come and ready his Force Barrier against it?
How many rounds does it take a person to climb the rope?
"Master Arcadian!" Shouted Valestar. "Let us go last! I need you by
the door! If it opens, slam it shut again, and I can use my magic to
keep it that way!"
***
Climb Check: 17
Got a total of 15, I'm definitely taking ranks in Climbing if I survive until next level
Q: Unless Valestar can sense when they are about to come and ready his Force Barrier
against it?
A: You can't sense them, but you can have the spell readied. It will only work with line of sight
and for as many rounds as you expend Willpower to hold it shut.
Q: How many rounds does it take a person to climb the rope?
A: Roughly 3-4 rounds (20-25 seconds unless a dazzling roll is made).
Remember, there are two climb checks to reach the top from where you are. One to make it
even with the third floor, and one to get onto the roof itself.
"Godspeed, brothers," said Sol Hawk. Having hauled his friends to
safety at last, he perched on the ledge and lept, grasping at the rope
and climbing swiftly as Sir Victor helped him up to the next level at
last. Once there, Sol Hawk removed his bow, Sun Ray, and, now on
his belly, assumed the standard sniper's position.
***
"I'm going next" the sage said and began climbing the rope. This
time things went better. Sir Victor could pull the sage up without too
much trouble.
***
Arcadian nodded to Valestar and got into position, both of his bluesteel blades drawn and ready to roll. As he waited for his turn
Arcadian decided to put on his blue-steel scalemail. He knew that it
would slow him down but its protection might be needed soon.
Rules,
Rulings
I rolled a
second
climbing roll. I
made it to the
rooftop. I feel
like dancing!
Korlaeth stayed with Arcadian and Valestar as the others went up the rope. Tava'ryn's khanjar was out and ready.
Victor, Sol Hawk, and Simyn were now on the roof. Only he, Korlaeth, Valestar, and Hawkeye remained.
***
Sol Hawk
made it also thanks to Sir
Victor!
Guess I
rolled my climb
checks a little
early. I was
thinking of this
idea before I
rolled, if that
counts for
anything. If I
must climb,
since I rolled,
then that's ok,
too.
Sorry
Valestar, but
Arcadian has
Sorcery so
you've been
ruled out.
***
Surrounded by the Vakeros, Valestar felt more at home than he had since he left Dessi. "We're in a precarious position," he said to his two stalwart
companions. "My magic can hold the door shut, but only long enough for one of us to make it to the top. I would suggest, therefore, that I go last.
I've got my will ready to send at the door as soon as it moves an inch. If all goes well, I'll see you at the top. If not, then there's no one I'd have
rather fallen defending then two brothers of Dessi."
***
Sir Victor sighed in relief as he reached the top. Well, that wasn't so bad..., he thought to himself.
However, he had been spotted, and time was now really of the essence. In quick succession, the big knight helped Sol Hawk and Simyn up the rope,
pulling them straight up whenever they seemed about to hesitate on where to place their feet or brace themselves. "Good job, you guys did great!" he
encouraged them. Almost half of them were up now. The knight readied the rope for the next climbers.
***
Korlaeth looked at the rope again dubiously, and pondered Valestar's foreboding words that he could only hold the door shut long enough for one to
reach the roof. The Vakeros were defenders, and somehow it just wouldn't feel right to leave Valestar for last. Then again, he did have a point...
"Or, Arcadian and I could let you go, then drop down the rope to the ground. That wouldn't take much time, and we could lead them quite a chase."
Korlaeth looked at Arcadian with his overconfident smile once again fully in place.
***
Arcadian finished the conversation for them, "I understand where you come from Valestar. But as Vakeros you know that we cannot make our way to
freedom and leave behind a mage of Dessi. You are not my charge, but still I must treat you as such."
The Vakeros smiled assuringly, "just go Valestar. I also, can induct the lesser art of Sorcery and can bind the door just as easily as you can. Go."
***
Simyn shouted down. "If anyone could take my backpack and my crossbow it would be great. The crossbow can be left behind, but the backpack has
all my provisions."
***
Climbed
very nicely this
time.
1st: 19
2nd: natural
20, for 23
Perception to
hear anybody
within the inn
trying to make
their way up
the stairs and
to the door: 28
(natural 20)
If someone(s)
is approaching
the door my
Occult roll for
Force Barrier
on the door: 27
If nobody is
approaching
when the rope
descends
Arcadian will
bid Korlaeth to
go first, and
then Arcadian
will follow. If
someone
approaches the
door he will
enact Force
Barrier for 1
round only,
taking the -5 to
Willpower. If
his spell fails or
after the 1
round is up and
Arcadian has
not gotten
upon the rope
yet he will
defend
Korlaeth with
both blue-steel
weapons until
he has gotten
to safety.
"Lesser art of sorcery? It took me years to master that lesser art!" He was silent for a moment. "You are a brave man, Arcadian, and well aware of
your duties. I do not know what plagues yo, but you are not the only one with a past they'd rather forget. If there is some way that I, as a Mage of
Dessi, can help, ask. Alright, then. I'm going up."
***
As Valestar climbed up Arcadian quickly gathered Simyn's bag and crossbow together. As soon as the rope descended again Arcadian quickly tied a
knot around the bag, securing it tightly. Then a second loop enveloped both ends of the crossbow, as to ensure that it would not break. Finally it was
tied off again, just above the bag.
Arcadian hefted the bag out the window and positioned it so that the crossbow would not clatter against the wall of the inn. Cade gave it two sharp
tugs.
"Simyn's equipment, coming up!"
As the bag was swiftly pulled up Arcadian turned to Korlaeth. So far nobody had burst into the room. The Vakeros held his hand out, clasping the arm
of his brethren in friendship.
"So brother, 'tis only you and I left. Let us be off."
***
Glad to have his equipment again, Simyn checked it through. He guessed he could toss the backpack over any gaps they had to jump over, but he
decided to remove the telescope first. It was a delicate instrument and the sage was not sure that it would withstand that kind of treatment.
***
Korlaeth returned the grip with enthusiasm and looked down from the window, then up.
"You know, it's not that far to the ground."
***
Arcadian quickly thought this over while he drank the laumspur potion that he had just recently been given. He felt the bitter liquid slide down his
throat and the Vakeros gave a quick cough when it was gone. Soon he felt a warm overflowing his chest and his wounds began to close soon.
"Korlaeth, I think that for right now you and I should stick with the others. At the moment they have not reached us. Sol Hawk is hurt badly, we are
all wounded."
"Let us stay with our friends. If it comes to it, you and I shall seperate from them at the right moment. Our blue swords will help lead our enemies
away from our friends."
Arcadian quickly waited for the rope to descend...
***
Shouts from below became louder as the crowd moved toward the ground underneath where everyone was climbing. Whistles and bells and the din of
a mob had replaced the normally quiet desert night noises of Teph. Cries of banou still rang out, and now the mob was brandishing scimitars and
other weapons. Some threw rocks. Others threw their weapons. The climbers were pelted with the missiles, some of them getting konked in the head
and almost falling, others suffering minor bumps. No one was hurt seriously, though, thanks to the knight's efforts and yanking everyone up.
The way Arcadian had affixed the rope became crucial, for everyone went up singly, using the bottom loop of the rope as a sling to go around their
shoulders. It was a simple matter for Sir Victor to brace it around himself in like fashion and walk across the inn's rooftop until his friends shouted for
him to stop.
The fifth to ascend, Korlaeth grinned and tossed back a rock that he had caught. Now on the rooftop, the group (minus Cade) had to plan what to do
next. Smoke was visible rising some distance to the front of them. Whether it was the smoke of consumption or the smoke of wet smouldering, they
were unable to discern.
Rules, Rulings
The lock is holding the door fine for now. You can magically brace it if you
wish. Sir Victor's bonus still applies to your rolls to climb.
Now that you guys are on the roof, and since I don't have an illustration handy:
The section you are standing on is the back wing, where the rooms are. It is
approximately 35' across and 110' long. You are about 20' from the back end of
the inn. 90' in front of you is where the common room is. It has a sloped roof, and
is roughly the dimensions (70x70, centered) of the old combat grid. To your left
are the stables, a 90 x 15' 1.5 storey strip about 10' away (iirc). To your right is
the mob (which is encircling the building slowly) and another inn, also 3 levels
high. Behind you is a tall wall (15') about 10' past the back end of the inn. Beyond
it are more buildings. The closest building that direction is over 20' away.
All jump DCs should be detailed in an earlier post, if that's the route you choose to
take. Heh, this is interesting because it is totally free-form. Unplanned 100%. I
didn't expect Cade to set the table on fire, and with no one to put it out, well...one
thing led to another.
Perception 15
Below them, Arcadian listened intently down the hallway after shooing off Valestar
and Korlaeth. Indeed, the Kivosha had arrived, for the Vakeros heard their magic
words and saw flashes of light--no doubt they were combatting the fire with their
magic. Shadows and stomps heralded the approach of someone up the stairs.
Sharnazim.
Arcadian saw them, but they saw him, as well. He dashed back inside the room
and locked the door, moving over to the window. There was a mob outside,
underneath the window, eager to see if his blood was the color of his characteristic
armor. Someone slammed into the door, causing the lock-bolt and hinges to
strain. Dust fell from the frame. Arcadian debated whether to stay or go.
***
Sol Hawk began moving - staying low, but getting closer to the 1.5 storey-high
stables. He could hear the sounds of the animals inside.
Sol Hawk began looking for the best way to enter the stables - perhaps a high
window or a weakness in the structure or the roof. Seeing that Simyn had the
telescope, he said, "Ah! A Spyglass! Does your device intensify vision as they say
it does? Perhaps, friend Sage, you might determine with it our best route of escape
from the stables. Once the pack is free, we will need the clearest path to flee by."
***
Perception: 17 - Bonus for Spyglass?
Given the distance you are from Third City, it would be extremely difficult to
roofhop all the way there. You're also unable to see anything familiar in Third City
from where you are. Getting to the stables is only one more step closer to
"freedom", but then again you'd have to leave on horseback unnoticed by the mob
forming outside the inn.
The clamor is also causing nearby tenants in other inns to awaken. And Sharnazim
are only becoming more and more numerous.
Aside from that, there is no way through the roof (aside from a critical check
failure) into the stables. There are, however, four large doors that lead to the
stables--swinging doors so that mounts can easily be taken in and out. That means
you can just crawl under them if they're locked. However, remember that the
horses won't be left unguarded.
I would suggest something, but I don't want to manipulate your actions. I am
going to make things a bit more interesting, though.
"It indeed does, Kai Master. Have a look yourself." Simyn handed over the device.
***
Sol Hawk grinned at his friend and took the Spyglass gingerly. With some basic
instruction from the Sage, he scanned the nearby city for every detail. In
particular, he looked for the clearest path from the stables to... ah... anywhere!
Not sure where else they could go, Sol Hawk focused his attention in the direction
of the one friend he'd made in Teph so far... the man who had sold him the passes
to the Snake Fighting Competition. Sol Hawk hoped that his good fortune in that
battle had not gone un-noticed by the man whom they might well have to place
their trust in...
***
As Arcadian debated what to do, he heard the guards shouting outside in the
hallway: "We'll keep trying; you go up onto the roof!"
***
Climb 1: 12, Climb 2: 8
Dang, I think I botched my rolls but that is up to KL I think. And I made both of
my rolls the first time I rolled for climb. Of course I ended up not using them. Arg!
I keep thinking it's night, but it's actually mid morning, isn't it? Game time, I
mean.
Add your +3 bonus to the rolls, and the +2 rope bonus, and you get 17 and
13. Good enough. Valestar--it's early evening, around 8pm game time, roughly 1
hour after sunset.
Korlaeth had escaped but now Arcadian was in a predicament. The door was
locked but he had no idea how long it would hold. Arcadian decided against
wasting his magical energy to seal it and quickly jumped out onto the rope. The
Vakeros Knight nearly lost his footing and struggled to hold on as he yelled for
Victor to pull him up.
***
"I did not spend much time in Dessi studying the finer art of gymnastics," Valestar
said. "I fear for my ability to jump to the Third City. I would suggest we find some
other way out of our predicament. Or else we make our stand here."
***
Arcadian was the last one up, and with that done, Sir Victor rolled up the rope
before moving back from the edge of the rooftop to avoid the projectiles being
thrown by the mob. Few reached all the way up here, but they couldn't be too
careful and risk getting hit by a lucky shot.
They couldn't run away forever, but they needed to come up with a plan quickly.
Their building was surrounded, and they would undoubtedly be seen if they
decided to jump across to the next building's rooftop. And that's only IF they
would all make it, as it was a rather long jump. Could the old mage do it? Could he
himself? It was one thing to do it without any equipment, but as they were
weighed down with weaponry and other odds and ends...
Maybe they could simply surrender and explain to the city watch that all of this
was merely a grave misunderstanding. After all, were they not law-abiding visitors,
who had been attacked ruthlessly and completely unannounced by evil assassins?
Of course, they were on the assassins' home turf, and the city watch may be
inclined to take their side over that of the visitors and banou. Teph wasn't best
known for its hospitality and sense of justice, after all.
***
Stealth check is 19, Perception check is 22.
As Sir Victor pulled up the rope, and Sol gazed across the city, Korlaeth quickly
dropped to his belly and crawled to the side of the building nearest the mob. He
glanced cautiously over the edge, seeking for a leader of some sort.
***
"We need to get away from here, but fast! Question: the stables or the roof tops?"
***
Where is the mob exactly in terms of surrounding the building? Is the part of
the building where the doors to the stables are, clear? And if so, how long will it
take them to reach there and would I be able to get the horses out fast enough?
"Personally, I would go with the rooftops. But I don't think roofhopping is
something that you usually do. We should try and get to the stables, get on our
mounts and ride as fast as we can. Unless anyone else can come up with a better
plan and quick?" Hawkeye muttered then noticing what Korlaeth was doing.
"What are you doing?"
***
Rules, Rulings
NOTES - assumption here
about the Guard Tower. KL,
change this at your discretion,
but basically Sol Hawk wants a
roof that is 1) flammable and 2)
in the opposite direction of where
he and his group want to flee.
NOTES - Re: birds. I have no
doubt that Sol Hawk could find a
few nearby since they are on the
rooftops. Sol Hawk can speak
freely with the birds and can also
command them. At his level of
skill, he cannot fail to command
them in any way needed.
Although he is allowed only one
command per use of Voice of the
Forest, I am sure it would be fine
if he uses more than one
command (ie one to get the bird
to hold the burning cloth, ie
GRASP and another to direct it to
the rooftop ie LAND (while
pointing to a particular roof).
Can my fireballs set things
on fire, Kai Lord? Or do they only
do damage?
the Web
As Arcadian and Korlaeth joined them thanks to the
courtesy of Sir Victor's bulging arms, Sol Hawk nodded,
then returned the telescope to Simyn, thanking him and
remarking upon what he had seen. He searched all around
for a building which would be far away from their
destination - and in the opposite direction. It was a
watchtower with a thatched roof. The surrounding buildings
were the same - one of them was a stable - likely used by
the Sharns for their mounts. Perfect. If the Sharnazim were
to be drawn away, this might be the one way.
Sol Hawk looked to the others and agreed with Hawkeye.
"The stables then. Climbing the rope was trouble. We invite
only disaster on the rooftops." As Korlaeth looked for a
target over the roof's edge, Sol Hawk called a pair of dirty
birds to him - these did not hesitate when the Kai Lord
approached, and he scooped them up. Tearing a small bit
of cloth from his robes, he gave one to each bird. Then,
using his flint and tinder, Sol Hawk lit each piece of fabric
afire. The birds were understandably skittish at this action,
but Sol Hawk calmed them with his words, then
commanded them as necessary by use of his Animal
Kinship ability. One after the other, the birds flew and
perched upon the far-off roofs with their flaming cargo. In
no time at all, there would be a new fire on the night sky.
In the close-packed buildings of the desert city, there
would be nothing that could demand the Sharnazims'
attentions more, and Sol Hawk hoped that this would
provide the diversion they needed in order to get into the
stables.
***
"I agree, the stables is our best target. In the meantime,
perhaps we should create a diversion? If we set one of the
nearby buildings on fire, the guards and crowds are sure to
investigate."
***
Simyn watched with interest how Sol Hawk commanded
the birds to do the Kai Lord's bidding.
***
"You want me to light those birds on fire?" Valestar
exclaimed suddenly, drawing glances from the others.
Patiently, Sol Hawk explained his plan to Valestar.
Recovered 9 willpower.
How far away is that roof?
If it's within 120 feet I believe I
could make it burn!
I suggest that we wait and
see if Sol Hawk's plan works
first.
By all means, Simyn &
Valestar, set the rest of Teph on
fire. Wasn't it the Chicago fire
that was started by a cow? Well,
the Tephani fire will be started
by a demented Kai and his pair
of cohort dirty birds.
There are still bloodthirsty
people and Sharnazim in the
area, but most of them are
scattering now.
"Ah," the old mage said. "Carry on, then." As he watched
Sol Hawk finish tying the twigs to the birds, he reached into
his robe and drew forth a potion of willpower. "I figure we
aren't out of danger yet," he said. "Better be in tip top
shape."
***
Hawkeye looked on in amazement. Silently, he approached
and whispered to his Kai brother, "When we get out of this
alive, you are going to teach me how to do that. And I
might just let you beat me in an archery contest. I hope
this works." The mob will reach them soon, and they are
losing precious time.
***
Korlaeth turned his head just enough that his voice would
carry back to his compatriots and not to anyone below.
"Do we have a plan, yet? I just survived a poisonous
dagger delivered by an insane megalomaniac. I'd really
rather not die at the point of a pitchfork."
***
"Do we have a plan, yet? I just survived a poisonous
dagger delivered by an insane megalomaniac. I'd really
rather not die at the point of a pitchfork."
Arcadian laughed. Korlaeth's quite dry humor did not really
serve to entertain but it certianly took the edge off of the
dire situation. Arcadian looked around them. They certainly
were in a tight spot...
Commentary
Somehow I can't shake the view of burning birds out of my
mind. I hope your plan works.
Creativity! I love it. I have a picture I need to find when I get
home and send you. My son thinks it is hilarious for some reason....
Q: Where is the mob exactly in terms of surrounding the building?
A: Front: fully surrounded ... non-stable side: 90% surrounded ...
back: straggler or two ... stable side: about 2 dozen people at the
front of the inn, none toward the back.
Q: Is the part of the building where the doors to the stables are,
clear?
A: Yes.
Q: And if so, how long will it take them to reach there and would I
be able to get the horses out fast enough?
A: They could reach you in less than a round if they ran. The horses
could get out, but you would have to push past or through the crowd
to do so.
I'll try to finally get a map up in the morning. It'll be a grid, too....
Korlaeth: There is no discernable leader. You are unobserved as you
watch.
Q: assumption here about the Guard Tower
A: Sure, I'll go along with it. Keep in mind that the arbor and the
shaded area underneath it provided by the trees and netting are
nearby if you want to use that option intsead.
Q: am sure it would be fine if he uses more than one command (ie
one to get the bird to
A: The adjective "bird-brained" is around for a reason.... I'll think on
it and have some fun.
I must admit I'm having too much fun with my imagination. Oh, this
is going to be priceless.
Q: Can my fireballs set things on fire, Kai Lord? Or do they only do
damage?
A: If it's especially combustible, they can set it on fire. After all, they
are merely pulses of magical energy. Keep in mind you can,
however, summon a fire elemental and try to force it to appear
somewhere.
Q: Somehow I can't shake the view of burning birds out of my mind.
I hope your plan works.
A:
KaiLord wrote:
Q: am sure it would be fine if he uses more than one
command (ie one to get the bird to
A: The adjective "bird-brained" is around for a reason....
I'll think on it and have some fun.
I must admit I'm having too much fun with my
imagination. Oh, this is going to be priceless.
Glad you liked it! In the ancient world, this is how the Huns
conquered superior Roman Defenses. Even if the Romans were
walled in, the Huns just caught some birds and tied burning twigs to
their feet. The birds did what birds do... returned to their perches in
town... the thatched roofs of houses... inside the wall! Well, needless
to say, before the Romans knew it... well... trouble.
Anyway, Re: 2 commands, I think I could (on 1 round) do 1
command and on the next round do a second command. Since VotF
lasts like 5 rounds or so, there would be still 4 rounds left when I
issue a second command - and then the bird would have to obey
both! Could take some time, but it was too cool not to do.
"I don't care what we do, but think of something fast..."
***
Sol Hawk knew he had to be uncomplicated with his
instructions. And he was limited by only a single
instruction. He looked at the birds while entering their
simple minds. "Carry the cloth. Drop it on that perch."
He tossed them into the air, both birds steadfastly holding
the burning strips. One flew straight toward the goal, while
the other veered off toward the canopy of trees in the
middle of all the inns. "No!" shouted Sol Hawk, but it was
too late: each bird had grasped a different instruction.
Are you saying you want me to set birds on fire
Check out my last story post to see Sol Hawk's plan. Burning
Once the far-off roof is afire,
the birds might not be necessary
maybe Valstar could bring a fire-elemental through it. That's an idea
Oh, so I don't get to light our animal friends on fire?
Rules, Rulings
One was carrying the cloth back to his nest in the trees. The other one was headed to the guard tower. The bird headed for the
trees passed underneath the fine netting and disappeared from sight. The one headed toward the tower landed on the roof as
requested, but it failed to let go of the cloth. The roof caught aflame, and the squawks of the dirty bird could be heard as it
flapped around and tried to smother the flames that were singing its wing and tail feathers. Shouts from the guards in the tower
were followed by loud gongs, drawing attention from the crowd gathered around the inn. A handful of Sharnazim detached and
ran in that direction, shouting.
Suddenly, from the area of the grove of trees, there was a large FWOOSH! The netting caught on fire and a single smouldering
bird could be seen soaring skyward away from the flames. Now homeless, the singed bird set out for places unknown.
The mob intent on blood was now intent on saving their own skin as the blaze spread across the canopy and set some of the
trees on fire. Roughly two-thirds of the people dispersed instantly in panic as the ashes and bits of flaming material showered
down upon the area.
***
Korlaeth started back as two nearby areas burst into flames.
"That may have been a tad excessive." Korlaeth looked askance at the animal speaker, "Be that as it may, perhaps we should
make ourselves scarce. Unless you feel we ought to help them put it out."
***
"Now or never," said Sol Hawk, "We won't have a better chance." Sheathing his bow in favour of the twin swords, Sol Hawk
edged nearer the stables. Since there was no window, the only way in would be a dismount from the roof. Sol Hawk peered over
the edge to see what Sharnazim were left. "Valestar, Simyn, will you enter the stables and secure our mounts? Sir Victor, you
may need to go with them since there will assuredly be guards. If the animals are afraid of the flames, I will calm them as you
pass through the gateway.
"Korlaeth and friend Cade, I believe it will be up to us to hold off the Sharn until our mounts can be secured. Hawk, perhaps you
can cover us and stop any Sharn who tries to escape for help."
Sol Hawk saw that it was some way down, but of course, a Sharn would break his fall. He looked closely again to see how many
were left and where they were located. The ones nearest the stable doors would need to be the first targets.
We back on, then? Great!
***
"Secure the stables? Very well. How do we get down from here?"
***
Sir Victor agreed at Sol's plan. The diversion created by the flames, however destructive, was their best chance at escaping the
sharnazim and the crowd, which were scattering by the second.
"It appears that it's rope time again," he said to Valestar as he readied the rope for the descent.
***
From somewhere near them--twenty feet? sixty feet?--there was a loud banging and thumping sound, as if someone were
pounding on a wooden door. Everyone looked at each other in looks of either confusion or alarm.
Then Hawkeye spotted the source of the noise. A trapdoor that led to the ceiling was being battered open (apparently it was
locked from the inside). It was approximately fifty feet away from them, toward the front of the inn. The third floor possibly had
a ladder or small set of steps that led to a service exit onto the roof.
In the distance, the tower continued to burn, as did the netting and a couple of dry trees. Alarms were going up now all over the
city, spreading the news that everyone feared--a massive fire was spreading.
***
"You'd best hurry." Korlaeth said, even as he sprang toward the front of the inn. He slowed his steps as he neared the trap door
and stepped atop it as quietly but quickly as he could.
He drew his dagger and looked back at his companions with a smile.
Rolled a natural 20 for
climb, for a total of 23
***
"More climbing?" moaned Valestar. "Well, I suppose it beats jumping."
***
KL, what do I have to do to
land on a Sharn from the roof? The
others will need the distraction if
they are to climb to the ground by
rope.
"Master Mage," said Sol Hawk, "It is time to go... but before we do, look there... visitors!" The trapdoor to the roof was buckling
and threatening to burst open. "Can you hold that trapdoor shut with your powers? As before?"
Sol Hawk, meanwhile, looked over the edge of the roof, judging the Sharn nearest to the stables and the distance of the
downward jump. That man was his target - he would leap onto him from above, gaining the element of surprise and perhaps
dropping him before anyone could be the wiser...
Rules, Rulings
Kailord
The Enemy of My Enemy
Act VIb
Opening: Falling Into the Web
Round 1
Act VIb Avatar
Yes, tough decisions all around. And I'm not talking about your
characters' predicament. For those (Sol?) who don't visit TotS, I
have stepped down as admin there. I have also decided for now
to keep the game going over here pending anything WH can do
to remedy this user account registration mess. He logged into
myspace 4 days ago, so I have my fingers crossed that he may
be working on something.
Back to the game at hand. Spread word we are back underway,
and I will try to post more and more frequently. This is one of
those times where I may end up using my twiddle to fix some
things. It is certainly one of the most restrictive times you guys
will have as far as options.
Basically, it's a foregone conclusion you will end up at point A or
point B. And point B will invariably lead to point A. Consider this
one of those unavoidable bottlenecks in our little "gamebook".
You'll like it.
Perception roll to find things to use as cover from arrows: 17
PS : I'm thinking of joining Sol down there. Do I roll the same?
Time seemed to draw to a standstill, each heartbeat lasting a minute instead of a second. Decisions
were balanced on the edge of a blade, teetering toward success and ruin at random. The actions
they were making affected events for years to come.
-Sol Hawk was preparing to leap 30' onto a Sharnazim.
-Sir Victor began looping the rope around the railing, preparing for a controlled descent.
-Valestar was in favor of that, moving to be first in line to leave this madness.
-Korlaeth provided a human brace against the trapdoor underneath him, feeling the forceful
shuddering of it beneath his feet.
-The other three merely waited for the next event to happen. So far they had set a few buildings and
a couple of birds on fire this night. A mob of Sharnazim and locals were gathered to seize them. And
as could be expected, Sol Hawk was about to attempt flying right down into them.
The pounding underneath Korlaeth's feet became more intense and focused. They were no longer
bashing it--they were hitting it with an axe!
Fire blazed in the night sky, illuminating everything in flickering orange radiance, including the next
problem that no one had expected. While Korlaeth could block this inn's trapdoor to the roof...there
was the matter of the adjacent building.
Alerted by Hawkeye of someone moving about on the inn across from them (the one which Arcadian
had "visited" in his ladder escapade), the group watched as more Sharnazim (2 total now, more
coming) began to climb up onto the roof. They raised crossbows and loaded quarrels, preparing to
fire.
***
"I think we best hurry. We have company, and more behind them." Hawkeye alerted the others as
he pointed towards the new arrivals. "We need to get to the stables, and we need to get there
NOW!"
***
Athletics: 14
Attack on Sharn - fumbled with nat 1
rerolled vs AC for crit fumble - hit AC 18
Sol Hawk nodded once at his Kai Brother, then lept from the roof, sword pointed down. With a
terrible THUG, Sol Hawk landed upon the guard with all of his weight, swinging with his swords, but
the impact seemed to take as much out of Sol as it did his target and Sol Hawk nearly dropped his
scimitar.
At once, Sol was on his feet again, facing off against a mob of Sharnazim with his twin swords
drawn. The fire flicked across his blue eyes and golden beard in the dark as the Sharn became aware
of a Kai Master in their midst.
***
8 points of fire damage to an approaching sharnazim. Burn baby,
burn! Nice to be back!
I probably will be setting something on fire, anyways, but I need
to get to a meeting, so I'll be back to post more later. Just
thought I'd drop in breifly and let you know I'm here and ready!
Finally, they had left the building and was out in the sweet air again. It was time to work some
magic! Simyn pleaded to the stars whose wisdom he worshipped and tried to aspire to and they
heard his call. A flaming mass fell from the heavens towards the approaching sharnazim.
***
Valestar knew he should follow Simyn's example, but he was wary of setting the place on fire, lest
their own equipment, left behind, should be lost forever. He still had hope of seeing his beloved
alchemy set again.
***
Arcadian crouched low on the roof, the cloak billowing out around him in the hot wind. His mind shot
downwards to the quickly approaching Sharnazim warriors.
"We're sure in a tight spot."
SH, Until you can heal yourself somehow, you will be limping.
Movement is reduced by 10', AC and Reflex saves reduced by 1
The Vakeros Knight drew his sword just in case he would need to prepare a battle-magic spell. He
looked over to Sir Victor.
"What now?!"
Perception checks from everyone on the rooftop. The DC is
variable. DC15 spots one thing. DC 25 spots another. DC 30
hears something.
The clamor and activity in this part of town is chaotic at the
least. People are running about to flee the burning netting and
trees. Inns are beginning to be evacuated. Sharnazim and
Kivosha are trying to get to the area to join those already here.
Bells are alarms are raising all over town, spreading to warn
others of the situation.
Arcadian will act after he knows what his Perception Check
brings him.... Perception: 19
Same here, oh dang, KL, any allowances on my roll? I got
29, 1 point shot of 30.
Not one to break the trend, Valestar will also hesitate to
act until he learns what this new roll brings him:
19+8 = 27
Perception check: 21
Round 2
As starfire fell from the sky onto the opposing rooftop, Sol Hawk fell from his own rooftop to the
ground below. Due to circumstances he could not remedy in mid-flight, he missed his target, taking
a painful jolt to the legs that would leave him limping until he could tend to it. Subdual damage = -6
EP Actual damage = -9 EP
The Sharnazim next to him turned to see what had made such a noise and impact next to him, and
looked down to see someone crouching beside him with a blade thrust into the ground. The
Sharnazim held up his blade defensively and took a step back, his free hand disappearing inside his
garb.
Meanwhile, Simyn's attack with the power of the starlight had a threefold effect. First, those nearby
the unfortunate person who was struck staggered and cowered, seeking cover, unable to fire any
shots. Second, the man who was struck fell back into the building, no doubt risking a chance to set it
on fire. Third, the entire area was illuminated by the fiery attack.
Sir Victor secured the rope and called for everyone not jumping to come on. Valestar hesitated,
seeing Sol Hawk's fall and rough landing, and remembering his own misfortunes recently. He
debated calling on the elementals again.
Korlaeth merely squatted low where he was, wondering why the pounding where he was had
stopped. Suddenly the trapdoor lurched, and a spray of sand filtered through the cracks and edges.
He informed the rest of this new development. "Sand mage underneath me now!"
Arcadian frowned and shook his head, calling out to the Ruanese for directions. Simyn began
backing toward the rope, pleased that his starfire had a better-than-intended effect.
Rules, Rulings
Act VIb, Opening – Falling Into the
Web
I took the liberty to roll for
the 2 who haven't so far.
SV = 13
Kor = 18
Concentrating as he was on making sure the rope was indeed
secure and that Sol Hawk was not in direct danger, Sir Victor
did not see what the rest of them did. Two pillars of sand
slowly raised into the air at the front of the inn, each of them
holding two passengers. One jumped off each, and then the
other two jumped from the pillars, which then fell out of sight.
Just like an infection in the
body, the longer it is there,
the more the body sends
defense mechanisms to
combat it.
Hawkeye and Valestar looked away as soon as they saw the
Kivosha rise on the columns of sand, just in time to see a
couple of ladders rise up and brace against the inn about fifty
feet distant from them, toward the front where the Kivosha
were.
Hawkeye's sense of hearing detected something like a crash,
something glass breaking? He couldn't be sure. Above the
noise of everything going on, though, he couldn't be certain.
The people Simyn had struck with the starfire were still
scattering for cover, lest he summon it again. He heard them
calling him the "fiery one" as they moved about, trying to gain
a good firing position.
Okay, so I'd like to summon
the elementals again. If I
could, I'd like to use
concentration to get them to
set the inn on fire.
Specifically, I'd like to set on
fire the room containing my
Alchemical equipment, which
should react violently with
the fire to create an
explosion. He's also trying to
climb down the rope.
Rolled 18 for concentration
Spent 4 willpower to summon
a fire spirit
Rolled 15 for climb check
***
Seeing themselves being boxed in, Valestar panicked.
"Everyone off the roof!" he shouted with a commanding voice.
Then, without waiting further, he once again summoned the
spirits of fire, not hard with all the buildings burning around
them. He concentrated, trying to exert his control over the
spirit, willing him to set fire to the room containing his
alchemical equipment. The resulting explosion would at least
create a distraction, if it didn't take some of their enemies
down.
Even if he failed to get the spirit to listen to him exactly, he
could still probably direct it towards the inn, and then it would
only be a matter of time before it reached his rooms.
Not wasting any time, he prayed the spirit would listen to him,
and then he ran for the rope.
***
(Fullround) attack
Out of the corner of his eye, Sol Hawk could see Valestar begin
to descend - and it was time to do what he had set out to do.
He positioned himself in order to draw their attention which
wasn't hard once he began swinging the twin swords. (hit AC
29, 8 DAM) (hit AC 16, 12 DAM) (hit AC 8, 11 DAM)
The limp he had sustained by somehow landing wrong slowed
him to the speed of a normal man. But Sol Hawk was not a
normal man. He was a Master in the Ways of Kai. And he
would prove it.
***
As he finished tying the knot in the rope, Sir Victor noticed
Sol's bad landing and winced inwardly. They didn't need
anymore bad luck, but sometimes it seemed you could only
push your luck so far, and the kai lord was one to push his
constantly.
Their position was going from bad to worse. Arcadian, looking
for guidance, asked the older knight what he thought they
should do. The mage answered for him, "Everyone off the
roof!"
"Sounds like a plan! Let's go Simyn, your turn! Cade, you're
next!" he urged them on, trying to position his body so as to
shield the men starting to go down. Although taking a look
down, he couldn't help but think they were only getting out of
the frying pan and into the fire.
***
The sage was not late to answer the Dessi Magician's warning.
If Valestar raised his voice, then it was a serious plan indeed.
Simyn had wanted to match his powers with the Kivosha, but
as they said in Lyris: "Better flee than fight poorly." He ran
towards sir Victor and the rope.
***
Don't recall what this attack
entails...attack roll is: 8.
Psychic Attack roll, if
needed : 28, Damage : 10
Just realised I only have 4
WP, make that 2 WP now.
Dang!
I'll post in the morning
when I get home. It'll be big
fun. Arcadian, you pretty
much saw the Kivosha
appear. Hawkeye was the
only other one who saw
anything further.
Korlaeth looked around him in growing concern at their
predicament. He caught Cade's eye for a moment and smiled.
"Death to Egoliah!" he shouted and charged on of the Kivosha,
intending to knock him from the roof.
***
"Dammit, why don't all of you just go down like we planned?"
Hawkeye muttered. He looked around and saw Korlaeth trying
to tackle the Kivosha off the roof, and immediately summoned
a ball of psychic energy and propelled it towards the Kivosha in
order to assist the flying Vakeros.
Hawkeye wanted to make sure everyone manages to get off
the roof, so he planned to move right before the knight.
The Vassagonian Research Thread
I'm putting all the info I find on Vassagonia and the region here.
We'll never know JD's notes on all the specifics, but we can get
enough pieces of the puzzle to make some good guesses.
Plus, it's kind of like a giant post-it note for myself as I think of
things or want to jot them down in one place.
Feel free to post things I leave out or get wrong.
---------DATES:
2514 - Elder Magi hit with plague - Vassagonia did not attack
(reason?)
2829 - Durenor settled, Vassa refugees move to Cloeasia --> This
means Vassa was around well before 2800
2950 - Cloeasia formed (LW Oasis)
3055 - Maakengorge forms
3074 - Casiorn formed (due to Maakengorge?)
3434 - Sommlending arrive
4301 - Kakushi tribe break off and form Kakush (LW Oasis)
4390 - Revolt against Zakhanate failed
4400 - Contract with Talons of Rashuur protects Cloeasia after a
decade of attacks
4451 - Rise of Empire
4551 - Rise of Empire according to Magnamund Companion
4650 - "Great Alliance" with Sadi (LW Oasis)
4702 - Great Khordaim War
?4750 - Anari founded? (LW Oasis: "The natural protection afforded
by the Chah Mountains has enabled Anari to repel hostile
Vassagonian armies for over three centuries. It was once a much
larger state which stretched to the borders of Casiorn, but defeat at
the hands of the Black Zakhan reduced their territories by half.)
4771 - Death of Black Zakhan
4780 - Vassagonia almost annexes Kakush, but stands down
4860 - Sadi wage war on Shadaki
5001 - Contract with Talons set to expire (reason for 600 years is a
"generational" contract from the Zularra bloodline--he has no heirs)
Possible Conclusions:
-Vassa dominated the land before the arrival of the Durenese,
Sommlending, Nael, and Aluvian.
-Territory under Vassan control included all desert regions, northern
Slovia, Southern Magnamund (including Ruanon), Wildlands,
Cloeasia, Maakenmire, Durenor
-Expansion spread northward and westward after primary
settlements
-Vassa tribes were territorial outside the sands.
-What is now Anari and Kakush did not border the empire.
-Trade stopped conquest at one time, possibly to fuel more conquest
-Something caused the empire to pull out of the following areas:
...Durenor (under Vassa rule, but place for exiles and refugees):
invasion of the Durenese
...Sommerlund (buffer between Darklands?): arrival of the
Sommlending, possible Kai involvement forced removal from Ruanon
...Slovia: powerful Nael and Aluvian fighting tactics? Civil war?
...Wildlands: Maakengorge formation
...Maakenmire: Maakengorge formation
...Casiorn: presence of Kai to north and Slovian to south
emboldened Casionese, declared independence, allowed to do so
through black tax
- The impediments to expansion forced the empire to grow the only
direction it could: south.
- Anari horsemen learned heavy cavalry techniques from Slovians
---------NATIONS AND RELATIONS WITH VASSAGONIA:
Anari - Vassan descent, Children/Sons of Anar fled through Chah
Gap from "Seven Cities", must have been founded very early
Note: As of MS5050, Slovian mercenaries are 70% of Dabudei's
army (LW Oasis) [this fits with the massacre of TEoME]
Casiorn - founded in middle of Vassa tribe trade routes, fortified
city-state, annexation by empire under Black Zakhan halted due to
"black tax"
Cloeasia - founded by refugees of Vassa descent (Haffan the Black
Cowl and exiled nationals), grew in Empire's shadow for 200 years
(pre-4390), Talons hired by contract that renews each generation?,
Talons being lured heavily by Black Army of Vassagonia to betray
Cloeasia in 5001
Note: As of MS5050, Cloeasia is 1/5 original size with 1/3 original
population (LW Oasis)
Dessi - no direct war connection with Vassagonia, Elder Magi are less
than 500 in number, protectorate are the Vakeros, Vassagonia fears
the Elder Magi...for now
Rules,
Rulings
Athletics/Climb
Check (Str): 18
Act VIb, Opening – Falling Into the Web
Arcadian hated running from a fight but somebody had to get
down or they would all stay up there until they were picked off
one by one. The Vakeros Knight quickly followed Simyn, using a
rapid hand-over-hand technique to bring his body quickly to the
ground.
Durenor - Settled in 2829, refugees from Vassa moved to Cloeasia
to flee the expansion
As soon as his feet touched the sandy street he drew his bluesteel sword with his right hand. Instantly the blade was writhed in
blue fire, illuminating the street.
Kakush - "Sister" nation of Anari that fled Vassa's Seven Cities, used
to have straight NE border, Vassa invasions chipped it away,
garrison along Vassa border, close economic ties with Dessi (for
protection), at one time did NOT border Vassagonia
Round 3
Valestar heard a muted explosion from nearby. He could only
assume that his elemental had done as commanded. Hoping it
would buy them more time, he began to slide down the rope,
albeit a little too fast. He arrived at the bottom as Sol Hawk we
pressing his offensive in the chaotic conditions.
Sir Victor began to ferry everyone down the rope. Simyn likewise
slid down too fast, causing slight friction burns in his hands. He
arrived just as the Sharnazim began to slash wildly at Sol Hawk.
Sol Hawk: -7 EP
Just realized SV is not
here to roll, so I have
done it for him.
If it looks like Valestar
can make it, he'll go for
the stables and get
Varsuvial, who is probably
baying like a mad donkey.
He hates loud noises.
Sadi - related to Vassa people, unified in S.Mag. at one time
Shadaki - founded by Vassa settlers, now at odds with Vassagonia
Wildlands - formerly Northern Cloeasia, laid waste by Maakengorge
formation
---------REGIONS OF MODERN VASSAGONIA:
Dahir Crescent - large cities, includes Dahir range and coastal cities
from Cloeasia to Dessi
Hawkeye saw the failed attack, and called out to Arcadian--who
had just gone over the side of the roof and to the ground. Sir
Victor turned to see what was going on, then grimaced in pain as
something struck his side. He reached down to rip out an arrow,
feeling the hot poison on it already coursing through his body. He
felt dizzy.
Western Reaches - primarily chaotic, rule of might, area where lords
are granted lands, far enough away from the heart of the Dahir
Crescent that the law is flexible or nonexistant
The knight dropped to his knees, reached out toward Sol Hawk,
then sighed heavily and collapsed into unconsciousness.
Anari - Brown Sash
Casiorn - Purple Sash
Cloeasia - Green Sash
Vassagonia - Red Sash
Kakush - Blue Sash
mourning - Black Sash
surrender - White Sash
Below the fallen giant, the oblivious group prepared to fight their
way into the stables and get horses at all costs, not knowing two
of their number were fallen, and a third was in danger.
***
Valestar could hear the baying of Varsuvial even over the noise of
the battle. He looked about him. He was alreayd running for the
stables as Simyn landed on the ground.
***
As Sol Hawk was struck and as he saw Sir Victor fall, he looked
around anxiously. He was heartened when he saw Arcadian's
sword catch fire, but they were going down fast. Sol Hawk fought
on for all his worth - he would have to fight off the Sharn Warriors
before there could be any help for the knight.
"Let's take them, Cade," said Sol Hawk, and his swords came
around, ready to down one Sharnazim and then the next, using
every blow to maximum effect. (hit AC 17 for 12 DAM, hit AC 23
for 9 DAM, hit AC 13 for 11 DAM)
***
From somewhere
nearby...no one knows
this.
Slovia - fierce enemy of Vassagonia, possibly lands once inhabited
by Vassa tribes before Nael and Aluvian arrive
At that moment, Korlaeth's impulsiveness spurred him to attack
the approaching Kivosha. In the darkness he was unable to
adequately attack them...yet the same could not be said of them.
Two of them hit him with Sand Blasts from opposite sides, while a
third moved in with a dagger and struck him while he was
stunned. Darkness overcame him as he collapsed to the rooftop,
unable to see and reeling from the impact of the magic. Korlaeth:
-14 EP magical, -3 EP physical, knocked down, blinded
Valestar was running for the stables - Sol Hawk was eager for the
man to throw wide the doors. Once the horses were clear of it, he
was prepared to use his affinity with them to ease their entry into
chaos and speed also the group's escape.
(fullround): takes all
attacks with scimitars
(free): Talks
Firalond - nation with good economy helps fund Anari and Kakush in
thwarting Vassagonia, Zakhan plans to sabotage this cash flow
Egoliah watched as the chaos erupted. He had hoped that the two
Kai Hunters coupled with his other accomplices would end this
situation--but apparently it did not. He used a spyglass to watch
the group climb onto the roof and move about.
They had set a few structures ablaze, sending the general
populace--and most of the military--into a frenzy. In the dark
room he was in, his personal healer attended to his needs as best
he could, for Egoliah would allow no light to be show...save the
one in the small device before him.
He watched as the ragtag group of adventurers began to climb
down off the roof, and the Kivosha began casting below them.
Sand spires rose into the sky and Egoliah smiled, but he had to act
fast. He clicked a code on the lever in front of him, raising a small
shutter in the front of a lantern with a mirrored interior. From a
couple blocks away, another similar device flashed an
acknowledgement. Within seconds, the assassin near the Green
Oasis Inn took aim.
Down went the knight. The Kivosha could handle the other one.
He sent another code, and watched the acknowledgement. A few
seconds later, a column of fire shot upwards from a rooftop
nearby--a signal of sorts. Egoliah turned to his healer.
"Come, quit fussing over me. We must journey at once through
the tunnels to the tower."
Koneshi Crescent - unstable military area, like desert Siberia, tense
skirmishes
Dry Main - nomadic tribes wander here with ease, making money in
two ways: transport of trade goods and transport of people
---------Combat uniform distinctions:
---------DIALECT DISTINCTIONS:
Casiorn - none, straight Vassan
Anari, Kakush - "southern" Vassan
Cloeasia - "simplified" Vassan
Example:
Vassan for "little sister" = kascha-d'niri (KAH SHAHD near ee)
Anari for "little sister" = kascha-niri (kah shah NEAR ee)
Cloeasia for "little sister" = Kascha (KAH SHAH, used as a name
sometimes)
Vassan for "Vakeros" = banou (bah NOO)
Anari for "Vakeros" = banou (BAN oo)
--------VASSAN LANGUAGE IN GENERAL:
Singular nouns are as is (banou, kadin, oud, tajit)
Plural nouns add -ta
...word ends in vowel = banouta
...word ends in consonant = kadin-ta
...word ends in d or t = ouda, tajita
"of <noun>" = add a- to the noun
...word begins in consonant = a- (pronounced AH)
...word begins in vowel = az- (pronounced OZ)
Example: "of Vakeros" = a-banouta
"of the <noun>" = add tas- to the noun
Example: "of the Vakeros" = tas-banou
"son of <name> = add al- to the name
Example: Ihmra'zir al-Marash
When married, women become <name> "of" <husband>
Example: Zari az-Ihmra'zir (ZAH ree oz EEM rah zeer)
Colors denote derogatory terms:
banou = blue (Vakeros)
ky-banou = old blue (Dessi)
otai = green (Kai)
akanai = silver (northern Knight or armored person, synonymous
with "one who hides from danger" due to the use of metal as a
barrier instead of a weapon)
Rules, Rulings
Act VIb, Opening –
Falling Into the Web
As Hawkeye and Simyn decided what
to do, Arcadian watched as the foe
Sol Hawk faced fell backwards onto
the sand, clutching his wounds.
Civilians darted back and forth,
blocking the exit ahead as they ran.
Two more Sharnazim entered the
small passway between the stable and
inn, though.
Arcadian looked behind him in the
shadows, alerted by the reflection of
his blueflame off a drawn blade of an
assailant sneaking up on them in the
dark. They were cut off.
Only Hawkeye can see this------------------------------Æ
So does Valestar have to go through some guys to
make it to the stables? If so, here's what he does:
He's feeling like fleeing, so he'll call to Simyn for help and
activate his force shield, pushing past the attackers and
into the stables (unless there's a way to stun them using
his staff?). He'll then close the door using force barrier
and cut all the horses free, trying to send them into a
panic and directing them towards the door before letting
it fly open. Hopefully, they'll do some good damage to the
warriors blocking the door. And hopefully Sol Hawk can
calm the horses enough to call some over to him, Simyn,
and Arcadian, and they can make good their escape.
I don't know how many rounds this will take, and I'd like
to keep some WP in reserve, if possible, so let me know.
Also it doesn't address the issue of those still on the
roofs, but Valestar does not want to stick around at this
point.
Initiative: 14
Perception to take in surroundings: 18
Attack 1: 20
Attack 2: 15
Damage 1: 10
Damage 2: 7
Perception roll for the fire shot : 24
Ok, I think I'm going to help SV back on his feet since
Korlaeth is still around , only blinded. What do I roll?
From a rooftop perhaps a quarter mile
away, a giant bolt of fire shot
skyward. Hawkeye could only wonder
what this mean, for he had never
seen red flames before. The Kivosha
took note of it and spread out,
ignoring Korlaeth.
***
Arcadian smiled as he caught sight of
a scimitar's glimmer behind him. As
his assailant sneaked up behind him
Arcadian suddenly whirled around,
bringing his blue-steel blade in time
to parry a deft sword-stroke. Arcadian
pushed back against his enemy and
then lunged in for the attack...
"You picked the wrong person to piss
off today," Arcadian growled in
Vassan.
Blue fire lanced along the length of
the cobalt blade, seaking out the soft
spots inbetween his enemy's
defenses. Arcadian's chisled features
shown lightly in the glow from his
illuminated weapon.
***
"Korlaeth, are you able to make you
way towards Sir Victor? We are in
danger and the enemy is about to do
something." Hawkeye shouted at the
Vakeros, as he watched the red fire in
the distance. He focused his sight on
it to determine what it is and then
turned towards the Kivosha. The Kai
Lord noticed their movement and
decided that something was about to
happened and decided that he should
not stay where he was at the
moment, and debated whether he
would help the other two or engage
the Kivosha to buy them some
time.....if only Kai would give him a
sign.
***
Simyn draws his twin weapons and he
is ready to cut down anyone that
threatens Valestar.
***
(fullround) hitAC20 for DAM 9, hit AC28 for DAM 9, hit AC
13 for DAM 8
HE: Heal Check at DC 35 because he's under the
effects of poison and unconscious. But that's not
important right now...you'll see. Oh, and all you can tell
from the red firebolt is that the Kivosha have started
ignoring you and are headed toward the side where the
stables are.
HE, don't know if you have immunity to poison yet
or not. If you do, you are groggy with a -4 on the next 2
rounds for anything you have to roll for. If you do not,
initial save DC25. Failure = unconsciousness. Secondary
DC won't matter. It would be 25 with failure = paralysis.
But something will happen before then. To rouse Sir
Victor, you would have to roll a Healing check at DC35,
and even then he wouldn't be much help.
Having downed one Sharnazim, Sol
Hawk redoubled his efforts and bit
into the next. Good - Simyn and
Valestar had made it to the stables.
He would help them handle the
animals if they needed him, but for
now, it was just a Kai Master and his
two swords...
Round 4
Hawkeye saw the sand mages divert
their attention from him, and he took
an opportunity to call out to
Korlaeth...who didn't move. The Kai
rushed back to Sir Victor, only to find
the knight's breathing was shallow.
He would be difficult to rouse.
Chancing a look over his shoulder,
Hawkeye saw the Kivosha reach the
railing and start casting. Four spells of
some sort were about to be unleashed
upon his friends--he had to act
quickly if...
Another "of"-construction would be Saadi-tas-Ouda
"The square of the Dead" according to book 5. "tas" can probably
be used in other constructions as well.
"Oud" means dead in both the Vassan and Dessi language
according to the books and -a seems to denote plural. It might
be one of many though. Swedish has a few different ways of
denoting plural (don't recall how many it is) so there could be
more ways than one to denote plural. Languages can be very
complex if you want them to be...
Since I think Joe began with the grammatic rules of the rather
simple English language (simple compared to the grammar of
many other languages), he usually simplifed other languages as
well. I don't think he had the inclination of developing too
complex languages, although some enjoy those sorts of things.
Thanks. So, I'll use a-/az- for "of" and tas for "of
the".
Much like French again. A combination of words in certain
instances:
a le = au
de le = du
Simplification is good if you are only going to have limited
exposure to it. Syntax doesn't matter for two or three lines of
text in an entire story. But for what I'm doing, I'd like to at least
have a few hundred words and basic rules of grammar
(pluralization, possession, comparative, superlative, verb tenses,
etc.)
Of course, doing it like Latin would be cool. Just as long as all the
words are there, the order isn't important.
Koura-tas-Kai meant "Sons of the Sun" or "Kai Lords" in
Castle Death.
I had considered that. Is the language Vassan or
Dessi though?
If it is Dessi, then that means one of them either borrowed from
or developed from the other.
Koura also throws off my pluralization rules, but that could be
written off as dialect or vernacular.
Similar to accepted "walking to town" vs. Southern "walkin' t'
town".
Koura ends in "a" and "a" would be the plural tho, right?
Dessi or Vasan: definitely Dessi. Vassan, too? Probably not.
If "kour" means son, then the plural would be kourta or
kour-ta.
Seems that consonant-ending words need -a and vowel-ending
words need -ta
kour = koura, kadin = kadina, banou = banouta, akanai =
akanaita
As for the Dessi/Vassan language connection, it is rather
interesting that Kazan-Oud means Castle Death, and Saadi-tasOuda means Square of the Dead. Similarly, Koura-tas-Kai means
Sons of the Sun.
I'm going to have to flip through the books again for more Dessi
info now.
I can't add much to this except to say that I did a noncanon fan piece on a Vassagonian legend, as seen in the Maze
Tournament. If you wanted to add some undead to your
campaign, you could use the tomb of the Mosh Bijair to serve
that purpose.
So far, I think the undead is the only thing this campaign lacks.
WE NEED SOME UNDEAD!
Rules, Rulings
Re: Stables
Imagine a long building with an equally
long "hallway" running along the length of
it, having many stables that connect to that
"hallway". Kind of like this:
_______________________________
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
|S________________v_ s_________|
Yeah I know, poor representation. S is the
shooter.
v is valesater and s is simyn. Not to scale.
Initiative: 24!!!! (A natural 20) I want to
dive into one of the stalls. Question: I don't
remember who has my trappings. I believe
that we fetched them from the inn, but I'm
not sure if I took them or not. Did sir Victor
take them? I think he did. In that case I
don't have my crossbow, so I wait for
Valestar to save the day.
HE, you've got Hunting Tier V, so
you're immune to natural poisons. Consider
yourself groggy with the -4 penalty.
Dropped fore shield. Force barrier is
not up yet on the doors. Spent 4 willpower
to make my awesome fireball attack (love
that attack):
To hit: 26
Damage: 16
KL, I guess you didn't get my PM. I
was wondering if my failed attempt to use
the Brotherhood spell earlier had counted
as my use for the day, or if it only counts if
I'm successful?
I'll have to check on that and see. I
know if we were going with pure d20 rules,
a failed attempt still counts. Not sure with
LWRPG rules. Also, I got so tired of getting
new user account notifications (around
15/day at times, in addition to other spam),
that I whitelisted my inbox for this
particular email account. The message for
the PM alert I normally get probably got
sent there.
...and that's when the lancing pain shot through his upper arm.
Protruding out of his shoulder was a small quarrel, much like the
one in Sir Victor's body. Hawkeye saw a flicker of firelight
illuminate a figure pulling a crossbow back from a window in one
of the upper rooms of a building past the stables. Something
flickered a few times from that same room, like a hooded lantern.
The Kai felt dizzy and his breathing became difficult.
Sol Hawk and Arcadian attacked in two different directions, while
Valestar and Simyn ducked into the stables. The force shield that
the mage had erected off his left shoulder flared as something
struck it, knocking it out of existence as it absorbed damage
meant for him. Crouched at the end of the stables was a blackclad man holding a crossbow, who was wasting no time in
reloading it as he shuffled sideways into a stable.
***
"Take out the shooter or duck for cover, Valestar! That quarrel is
probably poisoned." Simyn shouted as he ran into the relative
protection of a stall. He cursed. Did he bring his crossbow or was
it with sir Victor or on the roof? He the sage who never forgot
anything could not remember where he had his possessions!
***
"Simyn!" Valestar called. "Rush the archer while I have him
distracted!"
He dropped his force shield and channeled his energy into casting
one of his classic fireballs. The energy built up as a swirling mass
of color at the tip of his staff. He pointed the staff towards the
back of the stalls and the fireball leapt towards its target,
illuminating the dark heads of the horses as it passed them. The
horses neighed in fright at the bright light. Varsuvial bayed
happily, recognizing his Master's magical abilities.
The fireball slammed into the archer, and he let out a scream,
dropping his crossbow.
Stables
Simyn yanked open the nearest door, expertly one-handing the
latching mechanism as soon as he touched it. He startled a
chestnut mare who snorted and stepped back. Valestar was quick
to hurl his magic at the would-be sniper, leaving him heavily
singed as he groaned and fell over, dropping his crossbow. Simyn
peeked back out, debating a feisty charge down the stables to
finish the man.
Rooftop
Hawkeye's innate Kai immunities fought with the toxins that even
now coursed through Sir Victor, keeping him in a peaceful
slumber. His vision blurred and he felt woozy as the muscles all
over his body tried to keep tone and not succumb. The Kivosha
were casting. He had to do something. He tried to stand, though
that was a mistake.
One of the Kivosha turned and pointed at Hawkeye, and instantly
a stream of abrasive sand tore into his chest, knocking him
backwards over Sir Victor. Hawkeye: -8 EP His chest and throat
stung from the spray of sand, and he rubbed at the grit in his
eyes.
Man with Crossbow
2 Kivosha
How many Sharnazim??
The other three finished their spells.
Keep in mind that there are sharnazim all
over the area, even though the crowds are
scattering.
The archer in the stables can't be seen by
anyone but Simyn and Valestar, but you
can guess that something is going on in
there from the sounds coming from there.
The archer-sniper that got SV and HE
cannot be seen by anyone due to the angle
and location. You do not even know of his
existence. Likewise with the Kivosha above
you. Unless someone has hollered out a
warning (which I can't remember them
doing (M'sFW rule)), you are unaware of
them. But you will be shortly, I guarantee
it. All will be made manifest soon.
Simyn, Valestar: You two are now trapped
in the stables...unless you find another way
out, or unless the sand wall is dropped.
You will have them. Rest assured.
Not in Vassagonia, though. Not even in Cloeasia.
It's that next spot....
I among others have discussed that
Dessi/Vassagonian language similarities to some
extent in a thread in the Spirit thread. I think it
was another Swede who come up with a long list
of Vassagonian words and similarities. Don't recall
his name right now, but he is one of the Ceners.
I know the Vassans in Book 5 really like
to curse involving Majhan. (ex: "By the Majhan!")
The Majhan seemed to inhabit Vassagonia before it
was Vassagonia and left a lot of tombs and secret
places and such. I got the impression they might
be either the Shianti or a group related to the
Shianti when I went through Book 5.
Also, I wrote up a piece on Vassagonia in the
thread discussing a gazeteer project (not sure
which part of the forums it was in, Lore Hall of
Light, maybe?) 75-90% of what's in there I pulled
straight out of Book 5 and the Magnamund
Companion. The rest came from me and KL.
Round 5
How many Sharnazim are left in Sol
Hawk / Arcadian's vicinity? I am assuming
that all of these are in range of Sol Hawk:
Two at the front of the alley,
advancing toward you.
One dead at your feet.
Then you.
Then Arcadian.
Finally (at least) one bringing up the rear
and attacking from behind.
The Vassagonian
Research Thread
Alleyway
Sol Hawk sized up the odds, and they were grim. Arcadian was
protecting their rear, three of them had yet to come down from
the rooftop, and there was some sort of commotion in the stables.
As the two men advanced on them, the Kai readied himself. He
had not been ready to die before and had faced death twice. For
once, he was ready. Locking eyes with the two armed men
blocking their only path to freedom, the Kai took a step toward
them.
KaiLord wrote:
You will have them. Rest assured. Not in
Vassagonia, though. Not even in Cloeasia.
It's that next spot....
KL
V'ka!
Quote:
The physical characteristics of the Vakeros
were vaguely similar to those of the
Vassagonians.
You get brownie points for that one, Arcadian.
Similarities in language and syntax of language are
strong indicators that there is a common link
somehow. After all, nowhere does it say "the
Vakeros appeared" or "with the arrival of the
Vakeros". (Not that I can find, anyway) Sure, MoM
mentions magi heritage, but who's to say that the
Elder Magi and the Vassagonians were on more
friendly terms at one time?
And then he stopped, staring in confusion.
A wall of sand heaved up from the earth in front of him and on
either side. Behind him, Arcadian cursed as the same thing
happened to him. They were inside a corral of sand fifteen feet
high. Both of them looked up at their only exit and saw silhouetted
against the fiery sky the figures responsible.
The two caged heroes felt the same stinging blast of sand that
Hawkeye had seconds earlier. Each one struggled to remain
standing as the blast tore into their scalps and shoulders.
Arcadian: -6 EP , Sol Hawk: -5 EP. Strength Check at DC 21 to
remain standing.
A voice sounded called out to them from the rooftop, "Surrender
and live. The next attacks will use fire instead of sand."
Stables
Simyn glanced outside at Sol Hawk, then blinked in confusion as
he could see nothing but sand against the windows.
KL, suspecting there was a tribe of Va'kyr at one
time
Interestingly enough, Desi is a whole
culture in India. Considering how real-world
ethnicities were pulled for Magnamund, it's
interesting. This gives more circumstancial
evidence to the Dessi from Vassa theory.
If you are wont to believe science only, man's
supposed migration across the continents went
from the middle east to the far east, and it's easy
to see how subtle changes could have occurred
when going from Arab to Indian to Oriental and
onward into North America.
The languages even share commonalities in
appearance (don't know about sound and syntax).
Rules, Rulings
I'm going to assume Simyn is
explaining the situation outside to
Valestar.
Rolled 13+7= 20 on arcana to see if
Valestar has anything, including magic,
that can counter the sand wall.
"What? We're trapped?" yelled Valestar in response to Simyn's
assertions. He backed up, giving the Sage room to rush forward
and cut down their fellow inmate.
He took a look out of the stable windows himself and was surprised
and disturbed to see the wall of sand. He racked his brains and
encycledpedic kniowledge of the arcane to see if he could find a
way to use his magics against this new threat.
***
I'll roll the Sleight of Hand check come
search time.
What do I need to roll to evade
those sand blasts, maybe dex check or
athletics or acrobatics? How many
Kivoshas are there? Hopefully those
d_mn archers won't be able to hit me
when I'm in combat with the mages.
Also, isn't there anything Korlaeth can
do to remove his blindness and help SV
out?
Remember, Sol Hawk gave one vial
of Antitoxin to each of his friends. If you
have not used that yet, you might be
able to try it on Sir Victor now. Not sure
if Hawkeye or Korlaeth used theirs up
yet, but if not, now would be the time
Kai Lord, as part of that arcana
check, Valestar is considering whether
his trapped air elemental can do
anything against the sand wall.
You did? Didn't remember that at
all. Dang! Hmm, how would I be able to
use them on SV or Korlaeth or myself
when being blasted with sand from the
mages??? I need help on the roof....
Valestar: You know that to
unleash the elemental would be
dangerous, but the situation is
dangerous as is. It would be an
elemental clash: wind versus earth
(sand). The two elements are hated
enemies since they are opposite one
another in the mythos. What you
unleash would be stronger than a 20th
level Dessi Mage could summon....
I know the Vassans in Book 5 really like to
curse involving Majhan. (ex: "By the
He grabbed his bluesteel dagger from his belt and put his sense of
touch and all his skills to use in hiding it should he be searched.
Shianti or a group related to the Shianti when
Then he pushed himself to his knees and, over the noise of battle,
began to shout:
Also, I wrote up a piece on Vassagonia in the
Majhan!") The Majhan seemed to inhabit
Vassagonia before it was Vassagonia and left
a lot of tombs and secret places and such. I
got the impression they might be either the
I went through Book 5.
thread discussing a gazeteer project (not
sure which part of the forums it was in, Lore
Hall of Light, maybe?) 75-90% of what's in
there I pulled straight out of Book 5 and the
Magnamund Companion. The rest came from
Cobalt knights into the flame,
Azure light to darkness came.
Sapphire song pierce the deep
Dessi and home forever keep!
Okay. Here is what I do. I use
Eclipse to counterspell the wall of sand.
If I'm not close enough I will use a
move action to move 30 feet before I
cast the spell. I rolled a total of 21 on
my Knowledge(Arcana) roll hopefully
enough to surpass the required DC. (A
rather lousy roll since i got +16 in
Knowledge(Arcana) bonus). May Ishir
be with me!
Korlaeth wrote:
Korlaeth laid perfectly still, doing his utmost to judge positions by
sound alone. As the seconds passed, he feared more and more that
his efforts were in vain, and there was nothing left to be done.
However, he had been in worse straits before, and something
inside would not let him just lie there and quit.
Into the fires of battle we race,
Life we love, but will death embrace.
Till all are fallen, we carry the fight,
Blue lightning flashes into the night.
Rolled 12 vs DC21
(standard) sheathes scimitars
(move) stands again
(free) shouts to friends
The Vassagonian Research
Thread
me and KL.
***
Sol Hawk found himself knocked to the ground as the weight of the
sand knocked him off balance. The Kai Lord sheathed his swords
and strained to listen - had Valestar and Simyn reached their
target? Or had this all been in vain?
Sol Hawk thought of the female Kai who was out there somewhere.
Perhaps they would be joining her soon. But he would not go down
with ease. With difficulty, he stood up - his friends must know that
the battle was not over until they yielded. And to yield would be
only death.
"Fight!" he shouted at the top of his lungs, "Everyone, fight!"
***
"Let me show what the tricks of a sage can do!" Simyn shouted to
Valestar and began concentrating. He rose his head and his
eyesight searched for the star named Alsarah. A struggle began in
his mind. If the sage could send the star into a metaphysical
eclipse could he then counterspell the wall of sand?
***
Hearing Korlaeth and Sol Hawk shouting, he knew that the battle
was not over yet. They needed to regroup and to do that, they
needed time. Time that they do not have, but soon will. At least he
will try.
Holding his sword, Hawkeye used his dexterity and skills to evade
the onslaught of the sand mages and attacked them.
"For Sommerlund and the Kai!"
Round 6
Rooftop
One of the Kivosha--the one who had blasted Hawkeye--heard
Korlaeth's battle-song. The mage moved to intercept the blinded
warrior, summoning a hex spell that would allow him to better
subdue the foolish banou for questioning. He moved beside
Korlaeth and summoned the energy, then laid his hand on the
Vakeros' arm. A wave of unease shot through Korlaeth, and his
head began to throb. His legs felt like they were bound to the roof,
combining with his lack of sight to render his feeling helpless.
Meanwhile Hawkeye reeled from the sandblasting he received and
tried to mount an effective defense, remembering as he gathered
his wits that Sol Hawk had given them some antitoxin earlier in
their adventure.
He heard Sol Hawk below shouting for everyone to fight. The Kai
was brave, but from what he had learned, that particular Kai was
also unafraid of death to the point of rushing to face it headfirst.
"You have made a poor choice," shouted one of the Kivosha from
the rooftop.
Stables
Simyn, bolstered that he could still hear Sol Hawk on the other side
of the wall, looked through a window to see the stars. There was
the one he sought! He called its power and sought to block its
energy, thereby disrupting the magic wall nearby. Sand began
falling, but not nearly fast enough to benefit them. He strained
with all his might, but the wall held.
The Magnamund Companion seems to imply that the
Shianti was known under the name of Majhan in what
would become Vassagonia.
Nowhere is it written when the empire was
created. My suggestion would be that the Dry Main
was inhabited mostly by nomads, who mostly fought
each other. These nomad tribes were united by the
first zakhan and a great empire was founded, which
began to expand (Vassagonian history has so much in
common with Mohammed and the first Muslims.
Create a religion, unite the Arab tribes, then go out
and conquer a large part of the known world). One
possible reason that the Vassagonians did not attack
during the great plague was that they were busy
fighting amongst each other, or perhaps they were
fighting the Cenerese, who probably did not want to
ally with anyone and gained power due to the Great
Plague.
Perhaps the Great Plague also affected others than
the Drodarin races and the Elder Magi. Perhaps it
spread to Vassagonia as well, although not hitting the
Desert Empire so hard.
Rules, Rulings
Korlaeth, spell was
Major Woe. Fort save at
DC32 negates. If not
negated, you suffer -3 to
Str/Dex/Con for 5 rounds, -2
to all attack and damage for
10 rounds (this stacks with
the blindness penalties), your
movement is reduced to 5'
steps, and your initiative is
lowered by -15. You are a
blue sitting duck.
One more round will
essentially determine what
happens from this point on.
After your actions (or
inactions) this next round, I
will wrap combat up based
upon what all has happened.
(not an action) Glancing
Blow used vs 12 points of
Kivosha Fire Damage Damage reduced to 4
(move) Retrieves Laumspur
(standard) Uses Laumspur to
douse the flames
Valestar reached to make sure he had the air elemental vial. He contemplated using it, knowing that to do so would unleash a great
force. Would it be powerful enough to break down the sand wall? Come to think of it, would he be powerful enough to dictate what he
wanted it to do?
Alleyway
Arcadian was so infuriated at his situation that he was beyond words. He gritted his teeth--he would withstand the brunt of any attack
they threw. Even fire.
Sol Hawk and Arcadian prepared to dodge, but the accuracy of the mages was unavoidable. Each of them felt a searing blast of flames
as the fires fell from the outstretched arms of the Kivosha. Both of them felt the flames burn away the clothing on their midsections,
searing and blistering the flesh underneath. The pain was immense, and their clothing was now aflame.
Arcadian: -14 EP , Sol Hawk: -12 EP
***
Sol Hawk's view of the world was a circle of night and two Kivosha Mages. Although he could no longer see his friends, save Arcadian,
he knew that they were there because one of the Kivosha was clearly casting at the ones on the roof. Sir Victor must be down or Sol
would have heard his rallying cry by now. How Sol Hawk longed to hear it even now, even now.
The fire fell and it burned. There had been nowhere to dodge, though the Kai Lord had avoided the worst of it. Had the fire fallen from
both sand mages at once, it might have been the end. Sol Hawk tried to focus his healing powers on the wound, but he was spent now,
having exhausted the last of his curative ability during their escape.
Well, he would not let it end this way. If his friends were still alive out there, they were coming and the fight for an escape could be
redoubled. And if they were not...
No. The sons of Sommerlund were of stronger stuff than this. Sol Hawk reached around and pulled out the bottle of Laumspur, intent on
dousing the last of the flames. He poured the contents of the bottle onto himself and Arcadian, striving as he did so to beat out the
flames that the liquid might not quench. +8 EP Sol Hawk, +8 EP Arcadian
OOC: -1 use of Glancing
Blow, -1 Laumspur
***
Valestar had been fingering the vial in his pocket for some time (ignoring completely any sexual puns the audience came up with at this
point). It had been shaking and vibrating ever since the sand wall had been created, as if it could sense its opposite element.
Concentration roll:
7+13=20 - Not sure I'm
going to be able to hold this
one, guys. Assuming the
sand wall is strong enough to
break the glass, Valestar is
going to toss it in and start
his attempt to direct the
spirit within against the sand
wall and the Kivosh.
This raises the question
of initiative. Since I currently
have an Initiative of 24 I
could try to use Eclipse once
again before Valestar tosses
away the air elemental, but
since we're unleashing a air
elemental of unknown
proportions I just have to let
Valestar get away with telling
me what to do. Let's fetch
the horses!
Probably a good idea to
free as many horses as you
can, Simyn, and send them
out as soon as the wall
breaks. Perhaps Sol Hawk will
be able to grab one of the
horses and flee with us.
Arcadian may be able to as
well, if he's lucky.
Must move game
forward. Invoking the
sometimes-not-everyonegets-to-post-before-Iadvance-things rule.
Same poison that ---->
affected SV and HE, so same
saving throws...not that it'll
matter. Read on.
He knew not the plight of the others. They could already be captured, or dead. But he did know he'd be d_mned before he let his staff
be taken from him again by anyone.
He hated to use up unique magical items. He'd been hoping to study the trapped elemental when he got back to Dessi. But then,
without it's aid now, he might not make it back.
"Simyn," he called. "Get the horses ready. This could be unpleasant and we'll not want to linger."
And without another thought, he threw the fragile vial into the wall of sand and began to concentrate.
***
Simyn's first thought had been to continue his spell, but when he saw that Valestar had other plans he decided to follow the magician's
advice. The vial with the trapped air elemental was a powerful artifact, an artifact that might be enough of a distraction to let the heroes
escape. Or it could be their doom.
The sage did not ponder the question but reacted instinctively and went to fetch Starfall and Varsuvial.
***
Valestar barely heard Simyn's words. He was entering a deep trance, preparing to pit his will against that of the elemental he had just
unleashed. Perspiration built up on his creased brows, and his hands gripped of the stable poles tightly, the veins flared under the tense
white skin.
Round 7
Stables
Simyn managed to free up his horse and Valestar's donkey. Varsuvial's ears drooped as he heard the glass shatter from the small vial
that Valestar had thrown. "eee-YONK-eee" he said, then backed up a step.
Alleyway
"Laumspur won't help you lads. Surrendering won't heal you, but it will let you live," jeered a Kivosh from the rooftop.
More fire fell upon the two trapped heroes, searing the flesh across their legs and abdomens. Sol Hawk: -8 EP (-4 minimized, if chosen),
Arcadian: -10 EP Once again their clothing was on fire. Sol Hawk despaired--uncharacteristic for him. It would take a miracle to help
them now.
Rooftop
Korlaeth succumbed to the effects of the spells he was under. How could he not? The Kivosha had a definite advantage en masse. He
took a step and turned in the direction where he thought the Kivosh who touched him might be. A lancing pain struck his thigh then.
Korlaeth: -3 EP
Reaching down, he ripped out a quarrel even as he felt the poison it had delivered start moving up and down his leg. Blast it all.
Behind him, unseen to everyone else, more Kivosha arrived on Sand Spires, offloading some Sharnazim with scimitars and manacles.
Hawkeye fought to stand, but something blunt smashed into his chest, like a stick. Immediately the world went pitch black as the same
spell that affected Korlaeth now plagued him. Still groggy, and now more off-balance because he could not see his surroundings, he
swung his weapon feebly in front of him. So this was how the end would come for him....
Stables
Valestar watched as the glass vial shattered against the window. For a second a small cloud of grayish vapor hung in place, floating
slowly upward. Then it expanded to fill the room, blasting the windows out, knocking him down, rattling the stable doors, and scaring all
the horses.
With a deafening thunderclap, the cloud elongated skyward, spiraling viciously like a tornado. The roof of the stables was torn off in
ragged chunks as the elemental rose to full height and fury. Gusts of air shot from the creature in all directions ripping the stables
further apart.
Valestar's mental grasp sought the elemental's chaotic mind, seeking to control it. A presence entered his own mind, filling it with the
roar of a cyclone.
Do not seek to command me, water-thing. Fire and earth are near, and I am needed to quench both.
Rules, Rulings
The vortex lashed out in all directions, picking up debris and slamming it into the Green Oasis Inn. Sand was picked up and tossed
about, making it difficult for Simyn and Valestar to see. They could only imagine what it was like for everyone else.
Any debris the elemental acquired was ejected. The stables were its ammunition, and it ripped them apart to attack the Kivosha who
were sending fire and earth after it. The other "water-things" were no match for a section of roof hurled at them, or a strong gust
throwing them into the sky. The sand wall around Sol Hawk and Arcadian was shattered, but at great cost. Smaller chunks of debris
pelted them, tore into their bodies with the sand. A stray piece or stone contacted Sol Hawk and he went down. Arcadian went to help
him when part of the Green Oasis Inn collapsed near him, sending him sprawling into the sand.
Up on the rooftop, Korlaeth felt the rooftop shudder and heard a nearby scream drift quickly away. Sand pelted him, and he lapsed into
unconsciousness. Hawkeye could see nothing, which made this all the more frightening for him. He heard the curses of the
Vassagonians near him, heard jets of flame and the howls of angry wind.
The inn felt as if it were exploding, and then something near him gave way and he fell along with Sir Victor onto the sand below. The
rough impact was enough to daze him, and he too faded from the world of the conscious.
No one is dead. All but
Valestar and Simyn are
knocked out and are suffering
from various stages of injury.
More on that later. I just
want to see what those two
do before I carry on.
The elemental gave one final roar and entered the Green Oasis Inn, blasting out every window inside it and snuffing out any flames that
were left. People had fled the area from the arcane monstrosity, and for a moment the area was eerily silent.
It was then that Valestar and Simyn, suffering from numerous scratches and abrasions, noticed that the far end of the stables--the end
that led into the courtyard of smouldering partially-burnt trees--was open. They could ride out.
A quick glance to where their friends had been gave them grim hope for the outcome. A section of the inn was collapsed, and where Sol
Hawk and Arcadian had been there were chunks of wreckage and debris, partially covered with sand and dead Vassagonian bodies.
***
(not an action) Glancing
Blow reduces fire damage to
4.
(not an action) Glancing Blow
reduces effect of raining
debris, if applicable
It was as if he had suddenly gone deaf, because what Sol Hawk remembered of the next few seconds were basically flashes of light and
images of the night, his enemies, a flash of lightning. He moved to avoid any injury, but it was by no thought of his - instead, his body
seemed to move on instinct only, as if in a dream.
The fire fell. He and Arcadian were burned. The barriers burst apart. A rain of sand quenched the burning, but threatened to bury them.
Sol Hawk dodged and lept, finding himself shin-deep in sand almost no matter where he tried to move. The sky spun. A pitchfork flew
toward him on the wind. He dodged it only to be struck in the head by a bucket. The world blurred and the Kai Lord kept going... toward
the stables... as the bodies of his adversaries fell into the dust around him.
The last thing he saw was the stable coming apart at the seems, and then the sound rushed in at him, a horrible sound of horses and
animals who knew only so well that they were all soon to die as he came to fall beside the comrade he had come to know as friend...
And black.
***
Valestar could not see Simyn's face as they rode out of the stables, but he suspected the look on it was one of shock. Even though
Valestar had only been with the group for a short amount of time, he could not help but feel like his world was suddenly empty without
them. His thoughts especially went towards Hawkeye, the impeteous young Kai Lord who had unexpectedly come to his aid his second
day in Chadan. Hawkeye, who was always ready with a jest for any situation. The man who, despite his proposenity for teasing, would
lay his life down in an instant to protect anyone who followed the path of good.
"Hawkeye," Valestar said softly. "You have fulfilled your destiny. May your soul be carried on the winds to your homeland. May all your
souls find peace, brave companions."
Valestar's Action: Flee like a
scared little mageling
"Come, Simyn," he said more loudly, and with urgency. "We can not dawdle here. We have bought ourselves time and little else. We
must flee and carry on the quest in their stead. Otherwise, their sacrifice shall be in vain."
He urged Varsuvial forward. "We must escape, Simyn. But I do not know the way. You must take point and lead us from this blasted
city."
***
"You're right friend Valestar. We can not stay here for now. Follow me." Simyn urged Starfall forward trying to find a way out of the
mayhem and perhaps out of the city as well. The sage did not know what had happened with their friends. Were they dead? Taken
captive? They had rode to Teph to find their elusive enemy, to pick up the trail of Ameesha, but what had they found? Only death and
despair.
Valestar and Simyn, head on
off to Scene XII.
Suddenly Simyn got an idea. "It may be our death but how about this for a plan. Our enemies expect us either to be dead or fleeing the
city. Only a fool would try to make their way into the palace, where I'm sure we will find Egoliah. What do you say shall we turn our
horses around and ride into the kwaraz's den? I would like to have a talk with Egoliah and perhaps get the chance to avenge our fallen
comrades!"
Rules,
Rulings
Simyn and
Valestar, pick up here.
There is a quick way
inside, and I mean so
quick it'll make your
heads spin, but you'll
get no hints from me.
Do I still have my
backpack and my
crossbow or were
those lost during the
escape? I can't
remember having
them handed over.
You know, Dever
really hit on
something when he
wrote that sewer bit.
In every LW RPG I've
played so far where
it's led the party to
Vassagonia, someone
has to try and use the
sewers ^_^
Kai Lord, am I right in
assuming that any
equipment left in the
inn, ie. Saddlebags, is
lost forever? I'm going
to take it off my action
chart, that's why I
ask.
There's a reason
I asked everyone to
mark items left at the
inn, and that is
because I didn't want
anyone to delete
them. There is a
chance you will find
them again. Some of
them anyway. And
even if you don't,
we've come to a point
in the story where I
can work some
beneficial things into
the storyline and not
have it seem odd or
outrageous.
I can't remember for
sure if you had your
backpack, Simyn.
Everyone was in a bit
of a rush, so you may
have left it in the
confusion. Having it or
not having it won't
affect the story
adversely, though.
Teph has no sewers.
The city waste is
handled by placing it
in large shafts
scattered in and
around the city.
I made both an
intelligence and
Wisdom roll to see if
Valestar could think
up a plan, get some
hints maybe as to
what me and Simey
should do. But they
came up pretty awful,
so I'm not even gonna
include them.
I'll give you a take20
on the rolls, working
together, to come up
with the best possible
idea.
Act VI, Scene XII, Part 1 – And Then There Were
Two
As the sage and mage rode out amidst the ensuing chaos from the disturbance at the
Green Oasis Inn, they debated leaving the city versus pressing deeper into the city.
Neither option was palatable. If they left the city, they would be continuing a quest that
they did not start, one wherein they did not know the ultimate goal apart from saving
the Anari princess. With limited resources, supplies, and funds, they would be starting
from scratch, so to speak.
If they wanted to enter Third City or Second City, they would be facing numerous
guards and checkpoints, plus the possibility of discovery in an area which they did not
have proper authorization to be in. It was an equally monumental task to infiltrate the
city's core.
***
"Our situation is not good," Valestar said as Simyn laid out their situation for them.
They had stopped briefly in the shadows of an ally to discuss their next course of action.
Valestar himself was for calling off the quest and heading back to President Kubedei.
They needed more resources if they were to keep their lives. But the Sage knew more
of the quest then he did, and assured Valestar that time was not on their side. He
suggested an alternative plan. That they find a way into the inner city and locate
Egoliah.
Valestar held up his hand. "I need a moment," he said. "I am muddled from the recent
battle. Just a few minutes, and then we shall decide what to do."
***
It was now, when Valestar was in a state of weakness, that he felt the presence. It
started as fear and grew into a familiar presence, a presence he had not felt since the
battle in the desert some days ago. Only it was different. It did not speak to him. Did
not taunt him. Rather it was simply there. Out of the corner of his eye he felt he could
see it, but when he turned, it was gone and he was left wondering whether it was
anything more than nerves and imagination.
He shook his head and looked at the Sage. "I have reviewed our situation, and I find
that you are correct. We must go on. The president may be dead for all we know.
Ameesha may be dead, for that matter. This quest may be in vain, but we have no
choice but to carry on. So, how do you propose we make it into the inner city? Have we
anything that could admit us without questions asked? Perhaps if we could follow the
example set by our esteemed Egoliah. Everyone's so frightened of him, anything
associated him isn't questioned at all."
***
"You're correct. The nicest way into the den is either by finding a disguise so clever that
no one would question it or that we found a way past the gates. That reminds me. Have
you seen any signs of a sewer system in this city? I also had a black uniform
somewhere in my packing but I might have lost it during our escape. Perhaps we could
use that as a disguise."
***
"I'd rather not get covered in the grime of the citizens," Valestar said. "But if it's the
only way." He checked his pockets for his gold pouch and sighed in contentment. "At
least we still have our crowns. They could come in very handy very soon." And then he
remembered his lost alchemy equipment, the equipment his mentor had passed onto
him. And he felt slightly queasy.
***
"Do you think we can trick ourselves through the gates. Do you know some sort of
enchantment or magic spell that can fool the mind of the guards?" Simyn asked
Valestar.
***
Valestar shook his head. "There are spells, of course, that would do it. But I have yet to
understand their full workings. I only know the basics. I have not had time on our
journey to ruminate more. No, if we're going to get in the direct way, we'll have to rely
on our innate abilities."
He couldn't help feeling there was a simpler way in, something he was missing.
***
After an hour of thinking, the two of them had narrowed down all options until there
remained only two suitable ones.
Simyn's idea to double back cautiously and check the Green Oasis Inn. If they saw their
companions alive, then they would turn themselves in as co-conspirators. This way they
could all work together from the inside to free themselves.
Valestar's plan to double back cautiously and check the Green Oasis Inn. If they saw
their companions alive, they would try to find a couple of guards and seek to give them
information, then proceed to assault them to get the uniforms and infiltrate Second City
while transporting the prisoners.
Of course, all this hinged upon whether their friends were alive or not. And whether
they were killed on-site or not. And whether they themselves would be killed on-sight
or not.
---------As it was, they managed to barter for a change of clothing, nothing more than common
desert tunics and head wraps for both of them. However, this allowed them to get close
enough to see their friends being loaded onto wagons. Manacles were being placed onto
them.
"They don't shackle corpses," Simyn observed.
"Not unless they plan to hang them from the walls," countered Valestar.
Story Review
It's been such a long time (real time, not
game time) since the last plot piece, I've gotten
the story all muddled (I mean, I don't even
remember where we are or why we're here). Could
I get a brief outline of the story and situation?
The Onia a-Barouta (darkening days)
festival is held on the autumnal equinox in Anari.
It is a day of great celebration for many historical
reasons. This year the festival, the president's
daughter, Ameesha, is being highlighted for her
unparalleled psychic powers.
She is able to divine, psychomance, read thoughts,
engage in telepathy with near anyone she has
seen, etc. Truly a powerful gift. And during the
festival, she is being a sort of guarded debutante,
as she shares this gift with others.
Men in black wearing green sashes (traditional
colorization of Cloeasia) attack and kidnap her.
The gang (consisting of only 4 people at the time,
3 of which still play) was "influenced" by Command
Captain Ihmra'zir al-Marash to come explain
everything to her father in Tahou. They do this,
and in the process al-Marash is demoted and
flogged. A near assassination of Arcadian kicked
off a game of suspicion and danger.
The gang was hired by the president to steal his
daughter back. They set out and were met by
someone (Murdach) claiming to be an emissary of
Egoliah, who is introduced as a high-ranking
member of the defunct Anari Protectorate Society
(ASPs). They are to follow an underground exit
from the city and rendez-vous with Murdach. They
do so and are led to the now-closed-and-patrolled
festival grounds.
This is an ambush, wherein Murdach almost slays
Sol Hawk. Korlaeth and Kamilah join here. Makala
also leaves. If I'm not mistaken, Simyn starts his
adventures right around now. The group travels
into the forest in an effort to track and recapture
Ameesha, but walk into another ambush.
They then chase the fleeing "Cloeasian" army,
trying to figure out which of a half-dozen
"Ameeshas" is the real princess as they ride away.
The fleeing army razes a border outpost, then
enters the desert and splits up. Meanwhile,
Murdach travels by another route with the real
Ameesha to Teph. He is met by someone named
Kavan who tells him to detour to Chahdan, but I
am getting a bit ahead of myself.
Sol Hawk and Korlaeth are captured. The rest of
the gang finds and rescues them, in the process
slaying the love of Murdach and the leader of
Chahdan. I believe it is at this time that they begin
to realize Cloeasia doesn't have much to do with
this. Makala (NPCed) comes back and tells them
that Anari has cut a deal with Vassagonia and is
marching to wage war on Cloeasia. They head to
Chahdan in an effort to try and warn the Anari
president and get Ameesha before he arrives.
While there, they learn of an assassination plot
and meet up with you. They foil the plot, and in
the process, Murdach is killed by Kavan, who was
sent as an assassin by Egoliah (discovered to be
the mastermind of this whole plot) to remove
Murdach and his treacherous ambitions. Everyone
learns that they need to be headed to Teph, and
they set out ahead of the president, only to find
the Cloeasian army coming southward.
As the two armies clash, Vassagonia doublecrosses both and attacks them. The gang heads to
Teph, wherein many things happen, primarily that
Korlaeth contacts someone that points him to
Egoliah in disguise. The mastermind then enacts a
plan to wipe everyone out using some friends and
NAKs. That goes sour fast, and here we are now.
No one knows where Ameesha is, or if she is still in
Teph. No one knows why she is so sought after.
No one knows much of anything, and are likely
wondering if it is all worth it at this point. This
current situation was one of two major scripted
events based upon character actions.
In it, clues are learned and the chase intensifies.
The real reasons for things become clear.
Rules, Rulings
What time is it Kai Lord?
Just wondering if my Willpower
has recovered at all or if it's time
to drink one of those potions.
Ah, and look at the changes
coming over Valestar. Dark
clouds on the horizon. It may
have proved somewhat easy to
remove himself of the demon.
But the demons in our souls, the
demons we are born with, the
demons who share our name...
they are much harder to
displace.
EDIT: Somehow I missed the
second part of Kai Lord's post, so
I wasn't aware we had actually
gone back to the inn and seen
the guards with our friends.
Act VI, Scene XII, Part 1 – And Then There Were
Two
It was obvious, however, they (well, the ones they saw--Sir Victor, Arcadian,
and Hawkeye) were alive. The Sharnazim started to spread out as the wagons
prepared to roll away.
***
"Personally I'm eager for a fight. What do you say friend magician. Should we
teach them a lesson?" Simyn smiled wickedly.
***
"Yes," said Valestar darkly, in a hoarse voice that was not usual for him. Inside
him the familiar presence quivered in anticipation. His very soul was eager to
end the lives of those who had killed his comrades. As a reason, it would do.
"Let us take these guards and their trappings. And we shall make our way into
the inner city to seek our quarry."
Any reason would do, really, to inflict pain.
***
"To the inn? Shouldn't we try to trick these guards instead?" Simyn points to the
guards who are handling their unconcious friends. "If we could take their place
we would have a legitimate reason to drive into the Inner City. On top of that we
would have our friends with us."
***
-1 FP from each
Simyn and Valestar began discussing what to do, then debating what to do, then
arguing about it openly. As they planned, a Sharnazim detached from the
"clean-up" detail and came to investigate. As he drew near, Simyn pushed
Valestar back into an alleyway and reached for his weapon before entering the
alleyway himself.
The guard broke into a jog and rounded the corner into the alleyway after them,
intent on breaking this us. He took a couple of tentative steps into the darkness,
then....
Story Review
Some things to keep in mind:
-The president (Kubudei) led the Anari armies
into Vassagonia. You do not know if he is alive
or dead.
-Likely the Vassagonian armies are starting
their invasions of the now-weakened rival
nations of Cloeasia and Anari.
-Currently the monthly meeting of overlords is
being held in Teph.
-Korlaeth killed Egoliah's brother. Egoliah tried
to kill him. When he finds out Korlaeth is still
alive....
-Ameesha is extremely telepathic, but there
are only certain times she can use the ability.
-For some reason, the ultimate goal was to
weaken Cloeasia so that Egoliah's men can
enter.
-Ameesha is the key...but why?
Excellent. Really brilliant, thank you so
much for posting all that. Hopefully that helps
more than just me.
I have to hand it to you, Kai Lord, this is pretty
amazing. Coming up with an idea can be fairly
easy, but to work it into a playable campaign
with multiple paths and endings... that's
intense. I spent nearly 12 hours just restating
out the Tavern Brawl by Redbeard* and I was
exhausted afterwards. I can't imagine how
much work goes into keeping this campaign
alive.
whack!
And you say we're only about half way
through?
Simyn caught the falling body as Valestar cursed the jolt his hands got at the
board crashed into the guard's head. Magic never hurt like being thuggish did.
Oh sure, brutes didn't have to worry about fire elementals setting their clothes
aflame, but still....
I certainly feel like I'm part of something epic.
This campaign shall always be in my memory,
Kai Lord.
Within minutes, they had the guard stripped and bound and gagged, using torn
strips of their newly acquired desert garb. Simyn put on the outfit and sighed.
"Wish me luck."
He left to go pull another Sharnazim from the detail, citing that he needed some
help rounding up two bound prisoners in an alleyway, since they were headed
back into the city core. The Sharnazim he asked grumbled and followed irritably.
Simyn rounded the corner, took two steps, and quickly ducked as the man
behind him came into Valestar's striking distance. Once more....
Valestar, who regrets to admit he still has no
idea how he and Simyn are going to get into
the palace.
*I had to remove the classes I don't have RPG
data on, and replaced them with a Dessi Mage
and a Cat Clan Rogue. I also added a
Sommerlund Knight, added rules for making
the Helghast a random character, restated the
merchant, and messed with some of the
character goals.
whack!
The guard grunted in pain and staggered around, holding the side of his head.
Valestar looked around for Simyn, who was hard to see in the darkness. "Do
something!"
The sage stood and swung his foot into the guards midsection. He doubled over
with a groan, and then Valestar broke the board over his back. Down he went.
---------Within a couple of minutes, the mage and sage exited the alleyway, walked back
up to the detail via the alleyway between the stables, and noticed no bodies
lying about. Likely they were collecting living and dead. They exited through the
stables as they had just hours earlier, and joined in with the procession back
into the city core.
Valestar was extremely apprehensive, for if anyone asked him anything, he
would neither understand nor know how to reply. He stayed close to Simyn.
Luckily, nothing was said on the journey back. They got to see the firefighting
efforts in other parts of town as they passed, hearing the grumblings of the
guards about whoever started it. Simyn chimed in his own detesting comments,
to draw attention away from his silence.
If we were playing this in a
group that met twice a week for
4 hours a night, I'd roleplay
every bit of this. But since 4
hours of play takes 2 months this
way....I sped things up a bit.
In a little over an hour, they had made it past the gates of Third City, past the
gates of Second City, and were rounding through that part of Teph to an
infirmary, where they dropped off the dead and wounded Vassagonians. They
continued onward around Second City until they came to the prisons. At this
point, Simyn and Valestar watched as five cots carrying five of their bound
friends were taken inside. They strolled in nonchalantly and tried to follow, but
only Sharnazim carrying the cots were allowed behind the large locked door they
stopped at. Within a matter of seconds, the two of them were alone in the
corridor as the door shut. The guard behind it twisted the lock-bolt into place,
and from a distance the wails of "interrogation" of the other prisoners could be
heard.
As they stood there, more Sharnazim came in and went down a perpendicular
corridor to the one they were standing in, carrying bags of items as they went.
Ah so someone is actually using that
little piece I wrote. Nice!
Rules, Rulings
Act VI, Scene XII, Part 1 – And Then There Were Two
It is now about 1.5 hours to sunrise. You are roughly 1 hour in the
past in relation to the main thread's activity now.
Simyn and Valestar casually moved to investigate, but as soon as they did, the Sharnazim
exited and locked the door. Sage and mage waited until they left, then peeked in through
the smallish window at the top of the door to see what was inside.
It was apparently the contents of the Green Oasis Inn--the Sharnazim had been sent as
damage control, and in the process they had gutted the building of anything that would
alarm the populace.
When Valestar asked how Simyn knew this, he shrugged. "There's your alembic and
Arcadian's sword sticking out of that bag in the corner."
Valestar suddenly got an idea. He moved to the adjacent room. There were items
scattered all in it, too. "These are rooms with confiscated material! No telling what
treasure they hold!"
***
"Let's try to open this door and retrieve as much of our friends' possessions as possible. I
think Arcadian and Korlaeth would like to have their blue steel weapons back at least!"
Simyn examined the locked door. He had always been interested in the workings of locks
and other mechanical objects but had never taken the time to study them in depth. He
did not know how to pick a lock. "Okay, either we need to find a key or some brute way of
opening this door. That of course, if you don't know a magic way that could solve the
problem, Valestar."
***
Valestar was busy eyeing the other rooms as Simyn spoke. "Good idea," he said. "Of
course we should get whatever weapons we can. And now we know our friends are alive
and even where they are. We have the advantage, friend Sage."
A part of him was dissapointed they hadn't gotten to kill anyone. He shied away from the
feeling, trying to focus on the current situation.
Serendipity is grand.
"Magic? To open a door? Friend Sage, we are sorcerors of the highest esteem. We do not
waste our time with spells that do the everyday and mundane. And what would such a
spell be called, anyways? Mordenkainen's Magical Door Knocker? Or Ostufin's spell of
Opening? Though I do admit such a spell would come in handy in our current situation. I'll
mention it to the council when we get back. For now, I'm afraid, the only spells I know
that open a door would do so quite effectively, but they would have the added side effect
of setting this building on fire."
***
Footfalls preceded a gruff looking unshaven man coming around the corner, but the two
heard him only an instant before they saw him.
Since you've been giving a countdown to sunrise, I'm assuming
midnight has passed and therefore Valestar has recovered some willpower.
"Hey you two, what are you doing standing there? Someone drop something off that
needs guarding?"
The Gallowbrush I have, is it crushed or does it still have the thorns on
it? Basically, is there anything I can do with that and distilled water? Maybe
mix it with the water and use a fire spell to heat it up so it causes an
intoxicating steam?
Valestar followed their prescribed guard behavior. He snapped to attention and let Simyn
do the talking.
***
The gallowbrush is in paste form unless it is a potion. Then it is a
liquid that must be ingested. And I would not recommend fire-bending a
gallowbrush potion--area of effect "spell" + enclosed area = naptime for
everyone.
Bluff check: a total of 23 adding the bonus of my magic beads.---Æ
I was hoping that holding our breath would keep us safe long enough
to grab the keys and head for the other door. Would it not?
Man, Valestar is so taking enchantment next time he gets an elder art. You
know, I debated taking that from the beginning, but went with sorcery,
thinking it fit more with his character. And sorcery is cool, though force
blade is nigh useless with his awesome fireballs, and force grasp hasn't
come into play yet. Force shield will come in handy later I think, and I
really enjoy getting creative with force barrier (I'll never forget locking that
Dark Kai's blade in her sheathe nor the look on her face ^_^
The plan is the following. When I find Sol Hawk's old rapier I want to
use it to attack the one remaining guard, hopefully taking him by surprise.
With some luck I might kill him before he summons help.
Bored Guard: AC12 EP19 Flat-footed
I'll determine how this plan works by how far you exceed his armor class.
In other words, a low attack roll (14) merely hits him, while a high one (24)
could kill him outright.
Valestar, I'm assuming, has been made aware of Simyn's plan.
Therefore, he will drop his plan and prepare to back up Simyn if the guard
does not go down.
Simyn hasn't told Valestar anything actually about his plan. Simyn is
playing this by ear and the sage hasn't said anything to Valestar because it
might rouse the guard's suspicions. Feel free to make any action you feel
like and let our GM decide the outcome. Since Valestar doesn't know I
guess he's as surprised as the guard.
Attack roll total: 21. Damage: 6 Rolled a lousy initiative: 8. The guard will
probably beat it. I had hoped to give him two more hits before he could act.
And he tried not to look too guilty.
***
"Well, We were ordered to fetch something of the recently arrived banous." Simyn smiles
under his mask. "And while I'm at it, I thought that I should do an inventory check. No
one has really noted down what the foreigners had with them. We wouldn't want
something go missing would we?" Simyn laughs. "Perhaps you two have the time to help
us? I believe that some of the things confiscated could be worth a lot of gold. There is
plenty for each of us." Simyn hopes that the soldiers are greedy enough to go with his
bluff.
***
There is no time for questions, but Valestar can only assume that Simyn wants to knock
out the guards as soon as they get them alone. Though he can't help but admire the
Sage's skillfull bluffing, he wonders if this was the smartest idea.
***
The guard looked at Simyn for a moment. Then at Valestar. "Wait here."
He disappeared and came back with another guard that had a slate and a piece of
parchment, along with an attached inkwell and quill. "Let them into this room. Make sure
they don't take anything to sell."
The guard nodded and handed over the slate to Valestar. Then he pulled out a set of keys
as the one in command left to enter the dungeons (where their friends had gone). The
remaining guard left the keys in the door and stood against the wall, bored.
"Make it quick. I get off at sunrise."
***
Valestar followed Simyn into the room. "Now what?" he whispered so the guard couldn't
hear. "Shall we take our time with this inventory? Maybe the guard will tire of his chore?"
***
Simyn wanted to catch the guard by surprise, so he searched for a very special weapon,
once used by Sol Hawk.
***
Suddenly Simyn found what he was looking for. "Ah here it is! Isn't she a beauty. It
seems that the hated banou actually can make weapons worthy of a true warrior!" Simyn
turns around looks at the guard and says: "I'm sorry for this, but I can't let you live" and
lunges against the surprised guard.
Rules, Rulings
None of you know how you got here.
Only Korlaeth and Arcadian know that
they are alive. No one else knows about
anyone else's condition or whereabouts.
Act VIb, Midstory – Falling Into the Web
The air stank--sweat, waste, decay. Sol Hawk awoke to find himself in a most compromising situation. He was upright, his
full weight supported by his wrists, which were drawn up into the air, shackled to the ceiling of the narrow cell he was in. His
feet were held together by manacles that had a short iron crossbar that prevented anything but hopping or very tiny steps
from being made. The balls of his feet touched the floor, and he flexed his calves to relieve the strain on his wrists.
Ten feet in front of him were the vertical iron bars, on the other side of which was a tripod-mounted crossbow, loaded and
aimed right at him. He took inventory of his body, feeling the pain in his chest and abdomen from the flames, the throb on
his head from the...whatever that was at the inn, and other sore spots on his torso and legs.
He had no idea where his friends were, or even if they were alive. He started to call out to them when he realized there was a
greasy rag tied around his mouth.
---------Hawkeye awoke to similar conditions as his fellow Kai. The spell that had blinded him was wearing off, so everything was
dark and shadowy...not that it would be much brighter otherwise. He was hanging like Sol Hawk was, chained to the ceiling.
His left leg hurt terribly, though, and as he tried to stand on his feet, a horrible pain shot through his thigh.
The bone was broken. It was then that he remembered falling in the darkness. He could only surmise that they were in some
prison somewhere inside Teph.
He saw the crossbow in front of him and hung his head feebly. It wasn't as if they needed it, what with his leg broken and
all....
---------Sir Victor was restrained differently than the rest. Knowing his size and muscularity would aid him in escaping, they were
creative in his confinement. His arms were bent at the elbow, shackled at the wrist to another iron band that encircled his
armpit and shoulder. A long metal cord was then affixed to one wrist, looped around his neck, and affixed to the opposite
wrist. If he tried to flex and break his bonds, the wire would act like a garrotte and strangle him. Around his waist was a large
iron band which was affixed from both sides and the back to the walls of his cell. Likewise, there was a loaded crossbow
aimed at him.
---------Korlaeth and Arcadian fared much worse than the rest. They were each on racks at opposite ends of the room where
everyone was located. The cylinders at the tops of each rack had been pulled taut enough to strain their shoulders. They
could see on one side of the room a row of six cells, all of which had small crossbows positioned in front of them.
And they could also see nearby tables covered with blood-stained and dirty tools of torture.
At the moment, the room was empty.
***
Perception: 21
Sol Hawk held still as the image of the crossbow came into his mind. His arms were beginning to ache from the stress of
being raised for... well... a long, long time. As he tasted the gag, he decided to stay quiet for a moment. His attackers were
clearly anticipating his awakening, so no need to let them in on the fact as of yet.
You hear straining and movement
outside your cell, some muffled
grunting, rattling of chains, yet no
voices yet. It seems you are
underground, for there are no ambient
outdoor noises that you can hear.
He tried to decide how much time had passed. At the least, a Kai Lord's powers are refreshed upon the rise of the morning
sun. Sol Hawk tried to get a sense of whether his powers had recharged and also a sense of how badly hurt he was following
the disaster at the stables.
And on that note, I know SV was taking
some time off. Any word on Cade?
Yet why had he been allowed to live at all?
KL, if sun-up has come and gone, I
would have back my WP by now... does
Sol Hawk have back his WP at this
point?
Restoration: This in only three or
four hours after the calamity at the inn.
Sunrise will be soon, but not yet...in
another hour or two.
Crossbow: There is no tripwire that you
can see that would cause the weapon to
fire based on anything you did. And
hanging as you are, twisting to avoid its
shot would not give you total immunity
from being hit. More like a 40% chance
of a miss from the abdomen down.
Based on your shackling, you can't
really maneuver your chest.
He had known it would be a risk to confront the Sharnazim. If the others had only escaped, he knew that the sacrifice would
have been worth it.
The dreadful truth dawned on him as he remembered the tale of a female Kai who had likewise been captured in Teph
recently. She would be executed... publically. Here everything was a political game. He would be used as a pawn to forward
Egoliah's power.
Straining through the gloom, Sol Hawk tried to see or listen for any other hints as to where he was and who, if anyone, was
here with him.
***
Sol Hawk heard noises from around him and surmised that his friends had also been captured. This was no low-security
facility - Sol Hawk had a feeling that this cell had been reserved for him, or perhaps another like him. He tried to get a closer
look at the way the crossbow was set up. Would his movements trigger it, and how? He also tried to decide if it would be
possible for him to dodge the bolt should it come towards him, or at least bend aside to avoid a fatal hit (Int Check: 15)
***
Korlaeth woke with a laugh, only slightly subdued at the pain it caused beneath his ribs. To think they feared him so much
they must further subdue him when blind and unmoving! Speaking of which...
He slowly opened his eyes, trying to ignore the pain of being stretched a little too taut. In fact, if he ignored it hard enough it
wasn't that unlike the night before his final trial at Keron. That thought managed to keep the smile on his face long enough to
realize that he could indeed, see, and even better, he wasn't alone!
Korlaeth: If Cade doesn't post soon, let
me know if you have any plans in mind
for him.
Then again, maybe it would have been better if he was, for then maybe the others were free...or dead. Korlaeth shook his
head to clear that thought and immediately regretted it. Between the room suddenly starting to spin and the glance he got of
the torture implements, it was becoming very difficult to keep his grin.
Also, everyone, you have heard
Korlaeth talking. You can also surmise
that Arcadian is possibly alive. At least
his body is here. Korlaeth can't yet tell if
he is alive or dead, for he had not
moved on the rack.
"Battle brother?" he ventured. It came out more of a throaty rasp, but perhaps it would at least get Cade to move. It was
beneficial in prisoner situations to be able to talk with your fellow incarcerants. Especially since no ideas had yet come to his
mind
Am I still clothed? Did they find my
dagger? I thought Sorcery could do
something that I discovered it can't,
so...maybe he can force bolt the
manacles on my wrists?
OOC: Escape Artist: 20
Of course, he'd been in worse predicaments before. He couldn't think of any right now, but...
But his fellow prisoners hadn't known Sorcery before...
"Arcadian?"
***
Content for the moment that his movements would not cause the crossbow to fire, Sol Hawk began testing the manacles in
any way he could. He began to sway on them using his whole body as a lever - his own weight at this point was the one
weapon he had. These sorts of cells were meant to hold anyone, he could tell, but after years of use and years of struggling
captives, perhaps the equipment here had been subject to the tolls of time. After all, with the faction fighting going on lately,
who would spend time and money to inspect every wrist-hold and chain? Why waste the investment on captives that were
meant soon just to die?
Rules, Rulings
Korlaeth: Clothed, yes. Armored,
no. Armed, no.
Sol Hawk: Base DC on escaping these is
30. They do have locks, however, at
DC20. Four locks total, DC20. Cell lock,
DC15. That's all I'm saying.
Would the chain break? Could his hand come through the cuff? Sol Hawk didn't care what he inflicted on himself. There were
so many lives counting on him. The pain for anyone else would have been hard to bear, but he was no ordinary man. He had
spend years training his mind, years in secluded meditation. His psychic powers were exhausted, but his trained mind still
allowed him to push through his limits - his body was an instrument of Kai with one purpose and one purpose only.... to...
break... free...
***
Sol Hawk tried and tried to pull his wrist free of the manacles, but there was no way it was coming through the narrow
clasps. He heard chains rattling from somewhere else nearby, followed by a gruff grunt and low cursing. Sir Victor was alive.
Korlaeth tried to rouse Arcadian and see if he could work some Vakeros magic, but his attempts were not successful. He did
see his fellow countryman's head toss to the other side, but the eyes were still hidden beneath his hair. Either he was waking
up, or he was wide awake and in one of his moods again.
From somewhere outside the room, but not too far away, a female screamed in agony.
***
The scream got Sol Hawk's attention. They were in a torture chamber! Of course. It all made sense. But who was the female?
Tried an Escape Artist Roll vs DC20,
only hit 7.
Dude, you can always just take 20
on the locks. They're basic manacles,
and they're not tied to the crossbow in
any way. DC would be 25 to MoM them,
so as long as you have more than 5
ranks in Concentration, you are as good
as free. (5 locks at 20 = 10 minutes of
Concentration) Is that what you were
trying to do instead of Escape Artist?
Perception roll : 17
Can I do a Heal check on my leg to well
ease the pain? I'm no healer though.
Oh YEAH! I always forget about the
Take 20. Right then, let's say I am
doing the Take 20. With any luck, that
will be enough time before I have a
visitor - might as well get started!
OOC: Take 20 on DC20 lock - this time
for sure!
Okay Kai-dude. After 10 minutes
of concentrating, you're free of the
shackles and your cell. Your Kai sense
of Hunting lets you know it's
gallowbrush coating the arrow. You can
see Cade and Korlaeth (who is awake
and struggling) on opposite ends of the
smallish room. There are four cells to
your left. You are in the end cell closest
to Korlaeth.
Sol Hawk had a better understanding than most regarding the inner workings of locks. This understanding had come to him
instinctively as his powers with Mind over Matter matured. At the moment, however, his third eye had gone blind, so he had
to guess regarding the weak point of the manacles that held him. He'd seen a similar kind of mechanism before... perhaps if
he could just...
No, the mechanism was well made and too strong. Even with his insight into its workings, there was no way he was going to
coax it open or squirm free.
***
Hawkeye grimaced in pain as he tried to bear the pain in his leg. He weakly looked around the cell, looking for anyone that is
with him, doors, and any possible traps that could trigger the crossbow.
He tried to call out, "Anyone here?"
***
No, he couldn't give up. He knew how this lock worked inside and out. Normally, the mechanism wouldn't give. But there was
a chance... just a chance that jerking it in just the right direction would cause an inertial force roughly the same as the
pressure that a key would cause. It was a long shot, but then again, the Kai Master had nothing but time.
At first, it seemed only hopeless, and getting the lock to move and then stop precicely the way he wanted it to seemed
impossible considering the fact that he was hanging in such a precarious position. But Sol Hawk found that he could indeed
get just the right amount of stability on the balls of his feet - just only enough for a fast tug-and-halt on the manacles. He
listened to the way it rattled - he was able to tell what part of the sound corresponded to the tumblers inside the lock.
You've seen the inside of so many of these, he told himself, and strengthened his focus. Ambient screams were tuned out as
were the sounds of agony from his friends. Twist, pull, jerk, twist, jerk... a tiny click from the bracelet told him he was on the
right track... he jerked at it, but it had not come open far enough, and so reset itself instead. Five minutes later, he had
accomplished a click again, and he jerked at it. Not that time, almost. His training had taught him patience. He knew that he
would need every ounce of it as he lowered himself again to rest his feet before the next attempt...
***
Sol Hawk was grateful to be free at last of the gag and his feet hurt as he ran on the cold stone floor. He placed a finger
against his lips as he emerged, then took two weapons from the table where the torture-implements were kept. One of these
he used to cut the ropes that held Korlaeth on the rack - first one, then the other. Once Korlaeth's hands were free, Sol Hawk
simply handed him one of the blades so that he could cut himself loose the rest of the way... he headed next for the cell that
Hawkeye was in.
***
Assuming Sol is successful in
freeing me...
If you cut Arcadian free, you'll
have to find a place to put him or sling
him over your shoulder. He is in
absolutely no condition to travel. The
Healing check to save him and cure the
fever is DC20, and only Sol Hawk can
do it since his Kai skills are rather
supernatural. If he has healing,
Hawkeye can help synergistically with a
+5 bonus.
Speaking of our crippled friend, he
needs restorative medicine or healing to
fix his leg. No healing check will work.
Otherwise it needs to be splinted and he
needs crutches or a shoulder to lean on
until healed.
It is 30 minutes to sunrise. The screams
of earlier are now wails and moans.
Korlaeth was still smiling a little when Sol emerged from his cell, mostly because he could see the Kai lord working to free
himself. His patience was only stretched a little before he was worked free himself and instantly moved over to check on and
free Arcadian.
***
Sol Hawk dashed to cut Korlaeth free, then rushed to check on Hawkeye. His fellow Kai hung limply from the manacles, his
thigh bending at an odd angle. Sir Victor called out from "next door" to Hawkeye, "Sol! How did you get free? Get me out of
here, too!"
The restraints were taking a psychological toll on the knight. He had never prided himself on his great strength, but he felt
utterly powerless to have it taken from him so effectively. He felt inept and feeble.
Meanwhile Korlaeth sighed in relief from the sudden lack of strain on his joints. He took the bloody nicked blade Sol Hawk
gave him and sliced through the ropes at his feet, then ran to check on Arcadian.
The youth was burning with fever, and--noticing a stain on the man's grungy tunic--Korlaeth lifted it up. Whoever their captor
were had already started torturing him, albeit more subtly.
"Sol, they've smeared waste in his burns--he has a horrible fever." As if in response, Arcadian's eyes flitted open, focusing
over Korlaeth's shoulder distinctly for a second, then they grew dim and rolled back in his head.
"She's here," he said weakly, "up...unhhh." And then he was unconscious again.
***
"Her?" said Sol Hawk, "Can he mean... the Princess?" Sol Hawk remembered the psychic link that Arcadian had with her.
What was it he had said? That they would find her in the belly of the dragon... and if they were not in the belly of the beast
now, Sol Hawk did not know where else she could be.
OOC: Heal Check: 31 vs DC20
As Sol Hawk approached his friend, he was horrified at what he saw. Who could have done this to him? This is what they had
in store for all of them - alas that Arcadian had been the first. "Hang on, Cade," said Sol Hawk. Again, depleted, Sol Hawk
knew that his effect on Arcadian would not be as strong as it might be when his powers returned. But Sol Hawk had trained
over the years to be the best healer he could be, and this knowledge he focused on Arcadian now. The first order of business
would be to clean the wounds, and Sol Hawk did this at once, using a clean corner of his clothing to do so. There was no
water, this would have to do. Next, Sol Hawk knew that Arcadian's blood would have to be cleaned of the toxin. Sol Hawk
squeezed Cade's eyes open and looked directly into them whilst putting his palm flat onto the Vakeros's forehead. "Out with
it, now!" he hissed in a whisper, not wanting to give away their location, "Expel it!"
Rules, Rulings
The Kai Master tore off Arcadian's shirt - the filth was not only pushing itself out of every wound, but squeezing out through his
pores as well. Sol Hawk worked frantically to clean the slime off of him. If this could only be enough...
"This is all I can do for now," said Sol Hawk, "I can't heal his leg. We need to find our gear and get some Laumspur. And that woman
who is screaming - it must be Princess Ameesha."
***
Sir Victor heard the commotion and knew that they had to act fast. "Sol Hawk! Get me out of here! Look for keys!"
The sounds down the hallway had ended. Loud laughter now filled the corridors. Whatever sport the jailers had been playing with
the female, they were now finished.
27 minutes till sunrise
Or maybe now that she was silent, they were just starting?
***
"You have to save her," he said to Hawkeye and Korlaeth, "There's no time to waste. Here." He tossed one of the crossbows to
Hawkeye, lowering Arcadian's head to the floor. "I'll catch up once I have Sir Victor free. Be careful."
Sol Hawk's heart sank - where were Valestar and Simyn? They had been in the stables when the storm hit... Sol Hawk refused to
believe they were dead, though. He didn't intend to leave this dank nightmare until he had freed them, the girl, and gotten the
others out alive.
Perception for Keys: 15
Sir Victor was locked in, and if Sol Hawk was going to free him, he would need the keys. He started looking for them, scanning the
room with his eyes for anyplace they might be.
***
Strangely enough, Sol Hawk suddenly remembered seeing a ring of keys on the table with the implements of torture. He left
Arcadian and grabbed the keys, hastily trying them one after one until he was able to free Sir Victor.
The knight flexed his aching arms as the garrote was removed from his neck. He then took position by the only door to the room
and watched through the small window-grate. "Nothing in sight. Move quickly, though."
Sol Hawk freed Hawkeye next, easing him to the ground as best he could. The Kai handed him one of the crossbows. "Use this if you
must. The arrow appears poisoned."
Sir Victor looked at the two ambulatory heroes he'd bled with so far. "If we are making a move, we'd best do it now."
***
I think the dice roller hates
me... Perception was 8, then a
Stealth check of 12.
Korlaeth searched the room one more time with as much thoroughness as he could muster in the few minutes they seemed to have.
He hefted the bloody blade Sol had handed him and wished for blue steel. Then he looked at Arcadian and his smile finally vanished
completely.
He strode to the door and opened it softly to peer down the hall.
These feyata would soon see what even a defanged banou could do...
***
OOC: Perception Check is: 26
OOC: Stealth Check is: 20
Surprise round. You have
the advantage of a move or
standard action but not both.
The guy is about 15' away from
you.
Jailer: AC11 EP20 Init7
Initiative 17
(standard) Throws Torture
Implement: hit AC17, CRIT DAM
10
I think everyone forgotten
the fact that Hawkeye has a
broken leg!!!! He can't walk, let
alone fight! Tsk tsk
They're leaving you for
dead. An unconscious Vakeros is
better than a crippled Kai....
Look back a bit...Sol Hawk gave
you a poisoned crossbow in case
things got bad. It's in one of my
posts.
For the record, SV can't do much
while carrying Cade on his
shoulder. After Korlaeth posts,
I'll update this.
Yeah KL, I know. I've read
that. I was trying to catch up.
Pocketing the keys, Sol Hawk quickly followed Korlaeth up the hall, brandishing a mean looking implement. Sir Victor was behind,
carrying another weapon in one hand and Arcadian over his shoulder. Moving toward the place where the screams had been, Sol
Hawk knew he might have to act fast to save another life.
He was ready to pounce on any enemy that appeared. He kept his eyes open at all times, taking stock of their surroundings with his
skills of Kai Tracking and Kai Hunting. Once they had freed the other captives, they would need to make a fast escape from this
place - possibly all the way back to Anari.
The room they were in was at the end of a curved and dimly lit hallway. While Sol Hawk was able to easily move along silently,
Korlaeth had a harder time, for breathing in the musty air caused him to sneeze.
Abruptly the laughter stopped, and indistinct murmuring could be heard.
"I'll go check it out. You keep tying her up." In about ten seconds, a large figure strode into view around the corner. He had his head
down muttering something, but looked up just in time to see the escapees in the hallway.
***
The man was barely around the corner when Sol Hawk motioned to the others to strike simultaneously. The Kai Lord raised the long
serrated blade. It was long and thin like a rod, still red and wet with blood. Sol Hawk launched it as if throwing a dart - it flew
through the air, straight and true - hitting a vital artery where it struck (hit AC17, CRIT DAM 10) - the man wavered on his feet as
the others followed suit.
***
Hawkeye looked at his Kai brother, "I think combat is definitely out for me, not with this leg. I won't be able to move freely. I'll only
slow everyone down." The young Kai Lord looked dejectedly at the floor.
He tried standing up, feeling a sharp pain running through his leg.
"Urrgh!"
***
Arcadian felt his pounding and his eyes felt like they were glued shut. He was moving...being bounced around like a rag doll. The
young Vakeros tried to force open his eyelids but only managed to let out a stiff groan from his parched lips. His entire body ached
like hell and he wrenched uncontrollably. Whoever was caring him was suddenly surprised as the Vakeros came to, and promptly
began to puke.
The Vakeros felt himself being set down. Finally he managed to open his eyes. Everything was blurry but he picked out the form of
his Kai friend standing next to him. Shakily the Vakeros attempted to stand, nearly falling over. Sol Hawk's hand grasped his arm
and heaved Arcadian up, supporting him until Arcadian waved his hand - signaling that he could stand on his own.
With a deft move Arcadian pushed his damp, ebon hair out of his eyes, staring at Sol Hawk.
Rules, Rulings
"Wha...what happened? Where are we?"
Okay...I read back a little bit but if
someone could give me a brief summery I
would greatly appretiate it. Also, KL, what kind
of condition is Arcadian in? I summerize that it
isn't good. Do I still have my equipment? Can I
fight? Let me know if I need to deduct any EP
or WP.
Summary: Valestar unleashed the bottled
elemental he had. It was tremendously
powerful, like a tornado. You were struck with
debris and rendered unconscious. While
knocked out, you were captured and taken to
(supposedly) Second City, where you were put
on a rack and stretched. Then human waste
was smeared into your burns by the jailers. Oh,
only Valestar and Simyn escaped capture.
Sol Hawk's healing took care of your potential
disease-ridden road to demise. All your
equipment is gone (actually it is about 100'
away with Simyn and Valestar, though neither
sides knows it yet). You can fight if you like.
Check your private messages.
Force Blade
Attack: 29
Damage: 10
(In the interest of speed, I'm doing a
cutscene here instead of a gridded combat.)
Before Sol Hawk could answer they heard something down the hall...
"I'll go check it out. You keep tying her up."
That is when a big man came around the corner. He hadn't seen them yet when Sol Hawk struck out.
***
The torture device pierced its way into the man's unprotected flesh. Somehow the Vakeros forced himself to turn.
Even though he was weaponless he was not powerless. All Vakeros were taught lesser arts so that if they were
somehow caught without their cobalt blades they could still envoke magic.
Arcadian's hands were a blur as he envoked the spell. A blue haze lightly covered him as he finished. He looked at his
opponent and mustered up a smile.
"Go to hell."
A thin, magical blade passed between them, disecting the man before he even knew what hit him. Before the dead
man even managed to fall to the ground the young Vakeros was gasping to Sol Hawk...
"Ameesha...she. She is close. In...room..."
He paused to catch his breath. Now that he had begun moving blood was pouring freely from his wounds. He had been
tortured...and tortured severly. One thing was for certain...he would be dead now if it weren't for Sol Hawk's healing
powers.
Arcadian began to stumble towards the direction from which the man had come. He leaned against the wall as he
moved, using it for support. Behind him the Vakeros left a trail of blood.
"Come...there's...another one..."
***
The magical blade streamed through the air and tore through the man Sol Hawk had injured in an azure spray of
glittering motes. The brief moment of elation was cut short as two more guards approached.
Arcadian swooned a bit and braced himself against the wall. Sir Victor, now free of carrying his friend, rushed into the
attack, pummeling one of the men while Sol and Korlaeth overpowered the other one.
They moved onward and found an open cell with a young olive-skinned woman inside. Her dark tangled hair was
caked with blood and grime. Her clothing was torn, and she was in the process of being bound to a table covered with
various torture devices...some of which were covered with fresh blood.
Her face was hidden, and she laid on her side on the table, breathing raggedly. A bowl with some sort of paste was
nearby, and some of it was rubbed into her wounds. She moaned groggily and shuddered, whether from physical
shock or emotional shock--it was not clear.
Sol Hawk asked Arcadian, "You've seen Ameesha's image. Is this her?"
The Vakeros pulled her hair back and looked at the face. Then he shook his head. "She looks Sommlending, but her
skin is far too dark."
***
Sol Hawk moved to the woman on the table, pausing to examine the contents of the plate. Seeing that she was under
considerable duress, the Kai Master wasted no time and approached, speaking softly to her in Sommlending and in
Vassan. "Easy now, we're here to help you."
OOC: Healing – 29
Sol Hawk spoke rhythmically, inviting her breath and heartbeat to match that rhythm. With one hand on her forehead
and one high on her chest, he commanded her body to heal itself. The body is a miraculous vessel, Light Hawk had
once said, Even we as healers can only remove the cause of the condition. After that, the body heals itself.
Sol Hawk knew that his ministrations had helped. Whoever she was, she would have to come with them now.
***
The Kai recognized the leftover paste as having a gallowbrush additive and something else--some alchemical and
magical alterations. By smearing it on her wounds, it took effect quicker due to direct introduction into the
bloodstream. He wiped it off with a shred of cloth and focused on healing her.
Surprisingly, he felt a strong resistance to the healing. A sharp pain lanced in his mind. What trick is this,
SandWalker? Only a Kai can heal like that.
Okay, it's fanboyish, but you'll be glad for this
in a little bit.
A faint golden glow surrounded her, and she opened her eyes and looked at him. The effects of the paste were quickly
wearing off as her body rejuvenated itself faster than any mortal's should. Sol Hawk instantly recognized the art of
Deliverance, and he bowed as one of his rank should to a Grandmaster.
"You are a Kai. That explains it," she said aloud. She freed herself and stood.
KaiLord wrote:
Some would comment here that
Vakeros cannot cast battlemagic
without use of bluesteel, which
Arcadian does not have. But when you
have fate points, miraculous things can
happen.
Give that boy his Fate Point back, you...that
was Elder Magic, not Battle Magic...
And so it was. I was skimming the text of
MoM trying to find it. I'll edit my error out.
"Let us be brief with introductions, for our lives are not guaranteed the longer we stay in this place. I am Silent Storm.
Why are you here?"
***
Sol Hawk had suspected that this woman was the Kai Egoliah had taken captive, but Silent Storm herself? That she
was here now caused Sol Hawk's heart to skip a beat. In the same instant he was elated, for she surely understood
the gravity of the situation here - their mission now seemed sure to succeed. At the same time, the fact that she had
been captured by Egoliah and held here gave rise to doubt by Sol Hawk - if a Kai Grand Master could be held in this
way, then their enemy was stronger than even Sol Hawk had dared to imagine.
Grandmasters were truly rare. The only one Sol Hawk had ever met personally was the leader of the Kai Monastery,
though not all Grand Masters chose that role. Silent Storm was as a legend. Of all the Kai alive, she was at the
greatest pinnacle of perfection that could be achieved. She had reached full potential as Sun Eagle had once done at
the dawn of the Kai Order. Sol Hawk was a Kai Master, yet he felt like a lowly Novice before this woman. Indeed, Sol
Hawk could not imagine how his meagre powers could have done what she could not already do for herself. There
could be just one explanation.
"Grand Master," he said reverently, "You have been waiting for me in this terrible place, and so I am here just to
serve. I am Sol Hawk, disciple of Light Hawk. This is Hawkeye, these others are my allies. I was sent by Grand Master
Sky Wind - we are looking for Princess Ameesha and also for our companions, Simyn and Valestar. Grand Master, can
you tell us - are they here?"
Rules, Rulings
Korlaeth blinked twice at the revelation of the victim's identity. A Kai Grand Master, here? And bound?
"What'd you do," Korlaeth asked as he gestrued at the more extensive torturing than had been conducted on anyone else, "kill his
mother?"
Not really expecting an answer, Korlaeth made a quick search of the room and then peered out the exit by which they had not entered,
watching for anyone to arrive at this rather inconvenient time.
***
Silent Storm waved off Sol Hawk's obvious reverence of her status. "Stay alive and you'll rival my power one day, not that it was of
much good to me," she said, casting a glance at Korlaeth as he mulled around. "Save all that 'oh grand master' stuff for the monastery.
Out here we're all equal."
Also realize, SH, that
HE is back in the torture
room with a broken leg. He
can't ambulate until healed.
"If the Anari princess is here, I've not seen her. Chances are they'll be in the council tower, which is connected to this building by a
stone bridge higher up. I've not heard of these other two you mentioned."
She stopped, as if sensing something. "Down!" she shouted, then grabbed an iron spike from the table, spun around and hurled it at the
doorway. The Sharnazim guard standing there grunted in surprise and grabbed at the object protruding from his chest. Sir Victor
quickly grabbed the man and slammed him into the wall, driving the spike completely into his torso.
"We need to leave this place as soon as we can. I'll help you escape, and then we must continue our separate missions, Hawk. Tell me,
is this all of your group--minus the two you mentioned?"
***
Korlaeth was only half paying attention to the conversation...until the shout of down and the dead Sharnazim. He looked in respectful
admiration at Silent Storm until she asked about the rest of their group.
"Hawkeye!" Korlaeth headed back the way they had come, then stopped and looked behind him at Silent Storm, "Can you fix broken
legs?"
***
At Korlaeth's comment, Sol Hawk nodded. "Yes, our friend Hawkeye stayed behind as we scouted here." Seeing that Cade was able to
walk now, Sol Hawk asked Sir Victor to retrieve his brother Kai Lord. The Knight was strong enough to lift Hawkeye with ease - and Sol
Hawk hoped that this would be the least painful way for his Kai brother.
"Storm," said Sol Hawk, at first hesitant to call her by name, "We do need your help - perhaps later we can share regarding our
missions. Do you wield a mace perchance?"
As Hawkeye is at last brought before Silent Storm, Sol Hawk does what he can to assist her. "We are all here now, minus our friends,
the Sage and the Wizard. If they survived, they would be here as well."
***
Silent Storm shook her head after looking at Hawkeye. "I can draw out poison and disease, but I cannot knit bones like the Herbalish
can. Laumspur or Oede herb will be this Kai's only option.
Sol, it is dawn. Also, your
question about the mace
seemed to sting, for the
muscles around her eyes
twitched when you
mentioned it, and she
ignored answering your
question about it.
"If you are going to move him again, I suggest splinting the leg. The pain he is in is probably severe."
There are two of them in the
room with a third injured
one.
"There are two Sharnazim in sight upstairs, working in the rooms where equipment is stored. Perhaps all of our gear can be found
there. I need the Vakeros to come with me."
She took stock of their situation, then took command. "You, stand guard at the door," she said to Sir Victor. "The two Vakeros can
provide protection within the room. Hawk, splint this man's leg since he doesn't have any innate healing abilities yet. I'm going to scout
up the stairs and get us out of here."
She snatched the keys from the guard she'd just felled, then vanished up the stairs further down the hallway. In a few minutes she
returned.
At the top of the stairs, she and the two Vakeros opened the gate, then rushed to ambush the two Sharnazim.
***
OOC: Heal Check on
Hawkeye: 27
OOC: Warmth of the Sun x4.
Healed limp and move
penalty as a result.
Sol Hawk nodded at the Grand Master's command and went to work on Hawkeye's leg. "I should be able to treat your leg," he said to
Hawkeye, "at least sufficiently for you to walk on it." Sol Hawk channeled some of his Healing skill into the leg - the bone began to come
back together, but Sol Hawk knew that all he could really do was numb the pain. His eyes scanned the room for anything he could
construct the splint with - with Sir Victor's help, Sol Hawk was able to crack a spear apart and use the long, straight shafts for the
construction of a makeshift splint. The materials were not very good, but when combined with the Kai Master's innate hands-on ability,
it did somehow suffice.
It was about this time that Storm returned with information about their discovered belongings. Two guards? Arcadian and the Grand
Master would have no problems downing two guards. And if their equipment included the Laumspur they needed, they would be able to
mend Hawkeye's leg completely - then search for Princess Amesha and get out.
Sol Hawk breathed a deep breath. Yes. His powers were returning. Even in this deep dark place, Sol Hawk could feel that the sun was
rising over the desert kingdom. He wasted no time allowing his own healing ability to refresh his body. Though Sol Hawk had been
weary from lack of quality sleep, when his wounds healed it gave him a second wind that would no doubt drive him through until they'd
reached their goal.
***
Korlaeth smiled again, as he so often did, when this strange Kai woman immediately took charge. Her planning seemed sound, so
Korlaeth followed her up the stairs.
"Are all of you always this...um...straight forward?"
What do I get as a
result of Sol's rolls? How
about my WP?
You get back your CHA
score in Willpower. Ah, I
adjusted my score just now
to take that into account
also!
OOC: Focus x2 at DC29 - two
failures, SH takes 12 damage
***
"Urgh, I think I can manage better now. Thank you." With the help of the others he got up and hobbled around a little. He then looked
at Silent Storm, "Grand Master? What are you doing here?"
"No time for questions. We best be hurry in finding the others.”
***
As Sol Hawk felt his powers returning, he focused his mental energy in an attempt to draw down more power. Unfortunately, the strain
following his torture was too great and Sol Hawk found himself weakened by the effort.
He looked to the doorway, listening for the return of his friends.
Rules, Rulings
Act VI, Scene XII, Part II – And Then There Were Two
About 5 minutes behind main storyline. I'll come up with a list of
what you discover later tonight, in addition to mapping out this building
and the adjoining one. I have a good feeling you'll be heading there
next.
Simyn's blade sunk through flesh and chipped the stone wall behind. The surprised guard
stared down at the wound and then at Simyn--only then did he notice the color of the
eyes...and the other person coming at him with an iron candleholder. Valestar was quick to
react, and though weak, he had discovered he was adept at swinging blunt objects at
people's heads.
And I just know that when SV gets back, he's going to love the jeweled
broadsword that's propped in the corner of one of the rooms.
Is this the proper time to say that I wish to get a +5 magical +3
sublime rapier for Christmas?
The resounding clang was followed by the noise of the guard collapsing to the floor, a pool of
blood oozing out as his heart ceased to beat. They dragged him into the treasure room and
wiped the blood as best they could, going so far as to break a flask of water over the stain in
order to claim it was wine in case someone wandered by.
Most all of their equipment was there, and they discovered (thanks to the other keys) that
there was a lot of equipment in these rooms. This truly was a treasury of stolen and
confiscated items.
I love it. Three warriors are charging Simyn and Valestar--who are
in Sharnazim disguises--and they just start up conversation.
***
There are 4 rooms total that have "loot" in them. I'm just going to list
noteworthy items here. Note that your backpacks have been picked
through, and none of your money is left. All food and water is gone.
Your saddlebags are not here, while your backpacks are. Your weapons
have fortunately been placed in a different room, and in addition to
those weapons, there are others. (See OOC Interlude for full list)
In the middle of their inventory and checking, Simyn and Valestar heard the gate to the
dungeons clank and swing open. Rapid footfalls echoed in the hallway, and before they could
react, three people were rushing into the room to accost them.
Superior Leather Armour +3 does that mean that it's +2 superior
and +1 magical? What is the underleathers? An extra armour that you
can wear under a heavier armour giving you an outrageous high AC? If
so I take that object as well.
Valestar's staff was lit with a bright light, but it quickly extinguished as he hurridley withdrew
his power and cancelled the fireball he was aiming at Korleath's chest.
One was a bedraggled female with the complexion of a Sharnazim. The other two were
Arcadian and Korlaeth!
***
He sighed in relief as he recognized the companions. "Don't anyone say I'm a little short for a
inner city soldier," he cautioned.
Simyn who just transformed into a dwarf!
By the way it's nice to see Silent Storm again. Nice to see that she still
uses Mind over Matter in an unneccesary and flashy manner...
Potions: they count as special items in the book, right? I know I
can put them in my backpack, but how many can I carry, exactly per
your rules? How much do the gemstones weigh? Also, I'll take the
alchemical kit and put it in my saddle bags. I'm still waiting for Magic of
Magnamund, so not all these items are familiar to me. Can any of them
be used with my Magical Combat score?
Simyn: Underleathers are a thin, flexible lambskin leather that has
been reinforced to be much stronger than typical lambskin. It is worn
underneath typical leather armor to allow a higher AC rating. Yes, +2
sup, +1 mag.
Also, unless your class prohibits it, you may want to take the buckler as
well.
As for SS using MoM, I had forgotten you were in that other game with
me.
Valestar: All the items are from the main rulebook. If something is not
familiar, like the robes, just treat them as they appear. Robes provide
no AC bonus, so the metalwork woven in provides a bit of the same
benefits as a jewelled item.
The amulet and stones and seeds are negligible in weight. You could
find a small sack in the rooms to put them in. As for the alchemical kit,
you'll have to stuff that in a backpack. I'm not too strict on the rules of
encumbrance, but 10-12 items would normally fit in a backpack. We're
talking something about the size of a 1L soda bottle. Just use common
sense. About 10-12 potions would fit in a single backpack. The
alchemical kit would fill about half of one.
Only your wizard staff uses your magical combat score.
Remember that your saddlebags are not here at the moment. Speaking
of which, where are your horse and donkey?
I suspect that sages are proficient with bucklers but I don't have
the books with me now so I take it as a precaution.
I was assuming that we brought Varsuvial as close to the inner city
as possible, and then most likely secured him in some ally with the
saddlebags (which may or may not have been robbed by this point).
Changing action chart today to show new goods, saddlebag items
excluded until confirmation can be given.
You would have had to leave him around the part of the city
where the Inns are located since you joined in with the Sharnazim
procession carrying the prisoners into town. Not too many Vassagonians
prefer donkeys for mounts, and explaining him is not something you
could readily do with the language barrier.
Join back in on the main thread. You'll see why.
***
Simyn smiles. "So you saved us the trouble of getting you out of jail. I would have guessed
that you would find your way out yourselves eventually. Who is this enchanting lady and
where are the others?"
***
The companions were safe again. Or at least they were all in one piece. As miraculous as it
was, Valestar found himself accepting it easily in the face of other distractions. While Simyn
tried to get their story straight, he began sifting through the equipment room for anything...
special.
***
"Wait!" shouted Arcadian the instant before Silent Storm began her attack. The Kai faltered,
her hands a hair's breadth from Simyn's neck. The sage could feel her mind probing his,
equally close to attacking him. The Vakeros saw the wizard's staff and eased his stance.
"These are our companions."
Realizing they were still in full disguise, Simyn and Valestar hastily--yet cautiously, lest they
spook the Kai Lady--removed their headwraps. She eased up somewhat, but was still wary as
they spoke.
Korlaeth answered Simyn, introducing the Kai and explaining the situation.
Silent Storm took stock of the situation, using her abilities of Mind Over Matter to bring a
large flanged mace across the room from a pile into her hand. "Be quick in gathering any
supplies you need or want. I will keep watch at the end of the hallway."
She left, and as Valestar rummaged through the room, he quickly surmised there must be
other rooms like this nearby.
Silent Storm comes back to find you all wide-eyed at the treasure you've found. "Hurry up!
Many will awaken soon and roam these halls! Grab what you want, stuff it into a bag or
backpack, and let's regroup with the others. We have a dangerous road ahead of us."
***
Simyn took a quick look at the weapons, but was disappointed. Nothing interested him here.
When he checked through the armours something immediately catched his eyes. A beautifully
crafted leather armour way surpassing the one he was carrying in workmanship. "Oh, what
workmanship. Come to father my pretty baby" he said overawed by feelings of greed and
wanting to possess the object. He quickly put it into his backpack.
***
Valestar took for himself the robe, the amulet, a heartstone, the fireseeds, and as many
potions of rendalim's elixer and laumspur as he could carry. He also exchanged his Khanjar
for one of the Jewelled daggers.
He turned to Simyn and the others and gave a quick appraisal. "Some of these things are
very valuable," he said. "In particular, this Dessi Rune Spear should not be left behind, nor
should the Kalte Firesphere. None of the potions should be left, either, and we should grab as
much of the gold as we can. I've taken one of the heartstones, two of you should take the
others. And the lady is right, we must hurry."
***
Simyn looked at the buckler a moment and then stuffed it into his now overcrowded
backpack.
"I feel like a packing mule carrying this stuff, but it will probably common in handy."
The Treasure Trove: Act VI OOC Interlude
Kailord, Giver of Treasure
There are 4 rooms total that have "loot" in them. I'm just going to list noteworthy
items here. Note that your backpacks have been picked through, and none of your
money is left. All food and water is gone. Your saddlebags are not here, while your
backpacks are. Your weapons have fortunately been placed in a different room, and
in addition to those weapons, there are others. (See OOC Interlude) Notably:
A jewelled broadsword +3, with a ruby-encrusted silver handle
A jewelled mace +2, sapphire on bronze
Three jewelled daggers +2, amethyst on silver
A reinforced staff made from Ruanese IronOak +2
At least one of each type of weapon in the rulebook, in mastercraft form.
Two bluevein daggers
A bluesteel longsword
A runespear +3
In another room, there is armor:
A suit of jewelled full plate +2
Superior Leather Armor +3
Superior Underleather Armor +3
Gilded Robes +2
Jewelled Buckler +2
Vakeros Bluesteel Armor (of whatever kind Arcadian and Korlaeth would get next
level)
A Silver Helmet (Mental shielding...cannot be psychically attacked while wearing this)
In another room, there are items:
At least 1 of every common adventuring item
One of each type of "kit" (including an alchemical kit)
In the final room, there are two chests--one on a wooden table, and another larger
one on the floor. They are not locked. And I'm going to be generous and ID
everything for you to save time.
Chest 1: Upon a bed of coins (approx 15000 GC worth) you find the following:
A
A
A
A
A
smaller box containing three heart-shaped stones (Heart Stones)
small iron amulet (Magic Talisman)
bag full of gemstones (approximately 10000 GC worth)
Kaltean Firesphere
bag of fireseeds (5 total)
Chest 2: The chest is filled with bottles of what appears to be wine at first. It is then
you realize that they are potions.
10 Laumspur (4d4+4)
3 Alether
2 Rendalim
2 Gallowbrush
1 Adgana Leaf Brew
Rules, Rulings
Act VIb, Conclusion – Falling Into the Web
Sir Victor looked impatiently up and down the hallway. "What's taking so long?" He paced impatiently to the other side and back.
"Should I go check?"
***
Sol Hawk considered and then looked to his Kai Brother as well. "Let's all go check," he said, "We're in this together. But let's be
cautious about it."
With care and caution, Sol Hawk nodded to Sir Victor, then proceeded to follow where the Grand Master had gone.
***
The two Kai Lords and the knight moved as silently as they could out into the hallway and up the stairs, finding a large door slightly
ajar. They exited into a more brightly lit corridor that had an intersection not too far from the doorway.
To their left they could see Silent Storm conferring with someone in a room. They moved to see who it was and were pleasantly
surprised to find Valestar and Simyn there, risking their own necks to save someone they knew only through chance and hardship
for a quest that was not their own.
In addition, there was a lot of equipment and treasure to be had, but the lady Kai was urging everyone to move out as quickly as
possible.
"There are walkways connecting the buildings in this part of town, but they are on the upper floors." She shook her head at the
looting spree before her and sighed. "We have to go. I know the way out because I've been here before as a diplomat."
And with that she walked off. For a Kai, she was rather moody and abrasive, but then again it could just be a tactic to spur everyone
onward after her. Her callous shell may just have been necessary because inside she cared enough not to be found all together next
to the dungeons inside an enemy city with several walls between them and freedom.
***
Yep, I can use bucklers.
Are me and Simyn still in
disguise? By the way, Valestar
insists that someone takes the
rune spear, and if no one does
(why wouldn't you?) he'll be
forced to take it himself as best
he can.
-1 WP
Your weapons are here--as
are all those of your friends.
Whatever you still have listed on
your character sheets is
retrievable. Look in the current
Scene for a listing of more
interesting items to be had.
Valestar: Yes, you are still in
disguise. Last thing you did was
kill the guard, then drag him in,
then you were almost skewered
by Cade, Kor, and Storm as they
rounded the corner into the
room.
"You heard the lady. Let's go!" Simyn was glad that everything had gone so smoothly and that the group was together again. Things
had looked so grim, but now it was time to pick up the pace and to continue hunting their elusive enemy. As they went out Simyn
strapped the beautiful buckler around his left forearm. The small shield left his left hand free and he could chose to use his usual
tandem fighting style if he felt the inclination to do so.
***
"So does anyone wish to explain who this person is?" Valestar asked, huffing as he hefted the alchemical kit along with him. "In
Dessi, we take great care to introduce ourselves to our elders!"
***
As the others turn to walk out, Sol Hawk pauses to search the treasure trove. His first goal is to uncover his own belongings, but he
pays careful attention to the items he finds lest he discover weapons or armour superior to those he already has.
As for Silent Storm, he is confident that he will catch up to her, but he makes eye contact with her before she goes in order to
maintain telepathic contact in case it is needed.
***
Valestar, seeing Sol Hawk go to the weapon room, approaches him and hands him the Dessi Rune Spear. "This is an ancient artifact
of my people, and should not be left here. I am not skilled in its use, but I think that most likely are, Kai Lord. Take it, weild it in the
name of light, and the blessings of the Dessi shall follow you through time."
***
A voice came unbidden into Valestar's mind, startling him. "Given what I've gone through the past couple of days, formal
introductions are not a priority. But so you may know my name, I am Silent Storm, ostensible diplomat of the Kai to Vassagonia."
The Kai led them off down a hallway, moving with a speed that some were forced to struggle to keep up with.
She ascended a spiraling flight of stairs two at a time, disappearing from view. As everyone topped the stairs after her, they found
the crumpled, lifeless form of a guard laying to one side of the hallway. And she was leaving them behind with her speed. She crept
with the quietness of a water droplet rolling down a window. A quick glance behind her ensured that everyone was following.
(anyone gonna heal Hawkeye,
poor fellow's limping)
A few moments (and a few more quickly dispatched Sharnazim) later, everyone caught up with her, standing at the junction of a "T"
shaped intersection.
So basically it's like this. Silent
Storm and anyone who is sure
they can incapacitate someone
at 20 meters (without drawing
attention to the conflict) go left.
Those who go right have to come
up with a plan immediately upon
seeing what the room looks like
to make sure the alarm isn't
sounded. In other words, you get
the surprise round to act to
make sure the alarm isn't
sounded.
Whispering, she said, "Guard room is to our right. There is someone in it, and there should be a balcony-tower with an alarm in it as
well. Bridge to the main building in this complex is to our left. Four guards will be posted on it--two on each end. It's span is about
twenty meters. In the building it leads into, there is another corridor like this one--with another guard room and balcony-tower.
Chances are there will be guards in it as well."
Choose now who goes where
(those of you that still post,
anyway).
Sol Hawk obtains these items
in addition to his own from the
hoard:
The Superior Underleathers (If
Simyn did not take these)
remaining two Heartstones
The Silver Helm
Mastercrafted Longbow
100 gold crowns
She looked at the raised eyebrows and knew what they were thinking. "Hey, I said I knew the way out. I didn't say it would be easy
or that we would just walk right out. If someone can attack quickly and quietly at long range, those two guards at the far end won't
be able to raise an alarm. I can take out the two at this end."
"The rest of you, can you handle what may be behind that door and keep them from sounding the alarm? You'll have to act within
the first few seconds to stop them."
***
"Well, I got a crossbow. But I'm not certain that I can kill someone at that distance. Does anyone still have some poison left?" Simyn
squinted at the far away guards trying to figure out if the distance was to large for a crossbow attack even to be considered.
***
Sol Hawk pointed out the broadsword and fine jewelled plate to Sir Victor and the bluesteel items to the Vakeros. "Drink the
Alether," he suggested also, "No need to waste it." He himself places the attractive silver helm upon his head - he senses that it may
be of use.
Sol Hawk fast acquires his belongings, replacing some with new acquisitions. He stuffs his backpack in an instant and swigs a potion
of Alether before running up the stairs after the others.
As Valestar offers him the Runespear, Sol Hawk nods his head in gratitude. "I will guard and use it well," he says, "Was any
Laumpspur found in the hoard?" he asks, "I believe Hawkeye is in need of a bottle."
***
Yes I did take the
underleathers. I did not type it
out in clear text though. My first
thought was not to keep them
myself. I'm well protected as it
is.
"Pleased to make your..." before Valestar can finish, Silent Storm is already rushing off again. "Blasted kai," he mutters as he
follows, breathlessly. Reaching the top, he puts down the alchemy kit, giving his arms a rest.
"I'm not the strong, silent type," he says. "I'm more the on fire and screaming type. That would get the job done, but I imagine it
wouldn't be very silent. I've still got some gallowbrush, and with my kit here, I could make something. Could take a few minutes to
get everything set up and ready. Do we have that kind of time?"
Rules, Rulings
Simyn, underleather
weighs 5 pounds. No
penalties to any checks or AC
from Dex.
KaiLord wrote:
***
Sol Hawk hears Valestar making plans and arrives on the scene with a silver scimitar in both hands.
"Valestar," he says, "I'm ready - I'll charge in, but I won't complain if you deliver a small surprise
their way first."
penalties to any checks
or AC from Dex.
Ah! Good for me to know,
too!
I removed your dice
roll, Val. The best way for
gallowbrush to work is via
injection. Put it on the tip of
something and send it flying.
Sol is on the ready, prepared to follow up any attack Valestar might launch...
Simyn, underleather
weighs 5 pounds. No
Paste
Storm frowns at the idea of setting up a lab in the middle of the hallway. "No, no such time. If you've
got gallowbrush, though, use it to our advantage somehow."
***
"Wait!" Valestar says. "Spread this on your blades." He takes out the gallowbrush paste. "Are we
charging the guard room, then?"
That's what I figured,
but I thought it had to be
concentrated first. My raw
material will work?
***
Valestar decides he will run in to the guard room, and strike the nearest guard with his quarterstaff
(invoking its magical properties if he succesfully strikes).
***
OOC: I'm sure Hawk's
actions are fine, but might as
well see if this heals the leg
before we charge in.
"Very good," says Sol Hawk. The Kai Lord presents his swords to Valestar, ready for the application.
He hands a potion of Laumspur to Hawkeye from his pack before taking his position...
The guard room it is.
You might need some
backup.
"I'll go into the guard room. I'm more useful with a rapier in my hand." Simyn draws his thin blade.
He decides to leave the poignard in its sheathe. He's eager to try out his newly-found buckler.
***
Yes, the paste will
work. Ingestion of so much
would kill someone by
making them comatose.
Right now it is only good for
injection.
Enough paste for 4 blades or
12 arrows. Call it if you want
it on your weapon.
Start of the Surprise Round
Rules, Rulings
And the grid should be in my signature soon. Yes, I made a grid finally!
Notes
Unless the rightful owners step in and change this, here are the actions for
all current tagalongs:
Scale is 1sq = 5ft.
Lighter floor (tan) = explored area.
Darker floor (dark tan) = "fog of war", unexplored area.
The bridge has a solid carved railing that is about 3' high. You are (for reference
purposes) about 40' in the air right now. The doors leading to the bridge are
wooden double doors with window insets. Guards have their backs turned to their
respective doors.
SV - Guard Room, bash door down for element of surprise, turning right after
entering
Korlaeth - Guard Room, running to wherever the balcony is Hawkeye - Due to leg
still not feeling right, he will shoot a gallowbrush arrow at one of the Bridge guards
Arcadian - Will attempt to use the spell Penetrate to incapacitate a guard,
hopefully knocking them senseless until someone can overpower them
Silent Storm will attack both guards that are closest, then run crouched to the
other end of the bridge to check for guards in the hallway.
Rules, Rulings
(fullround) Charge - hit AC 27 (nonlethal
damage) DAM is 15 plus Gallowbrush
note - Sol Hawk only strikes if Silent Storm leaves
any guards standing.
OOC: KL, not quite sure where Silent Storm is. I'm
going to say I am at W6, but please modify in
order to keep me in step with Silent Storm's
actions.
As Silent Storm makes a run for the guards, Sol Hawk tails her. Total peace enters his being, even in this dark
place, and by flipping his silver blade into a special reverse-grip hold, he is able to deliver a blow with the hilt to
the man's chin Nonlethal DAM 15. As the guard reels in surprise, and before he can even shout, Sol Hawk circles
the blade around his head again, barely touching the man's skin with the blade, but delivering the Gallowbrush
Payload by way of the well-positioned cut.
Valestar is delaying his action until the others
have entered. He'll pick off the survivors.
By sending all of his intentions to the Kai Grand Master by way of their telepathic link, Sol Hawk finds that he is
able to work in tandem with her as the two Kai deal with the obstacle on the bridge. But will they find Ameesha?
Or something far deadlier? This can only be known in time.
***
I'll grab the blue-vein daggers, the blue-steel
longsword, which I change into a longbow (unless
Cade decides he wants it), and however many
jewelled daggers others don't grab, along with as
many mastercraft daggers as I think I can conceal,
and a few I probably can't conceal. I'll also grab a
quiver full of arrows. Other than that, I can't really
see myself grabbing more than a few coins, as I
anticipate I'm going to have to make some rather
quick runs and maneuvering, and a heavy
backpack would just really get in the way.
Shooting one of the guards at the far end of the
bridge. Attack Roll: 13 damage: 1 + gallowbrush.
Then I'll run quietly to the other end, and finish off
either of the guards that are still standing as soon
as I can.
Not sure if your intent is to kill or not. Opting not.
You've managed to stop the alarm...so far. Who is
gallowbrushed? Sir Victor balked at the poison (at
least I think he would--not very honorable to meet
in combat with chemicals along your blade.
DD13: AC16 EP70 Init 13
EE14: AC16 EP70 Init 20
HH14: AC13 EP35 Init 11
JJ9: AC13 EP35 Init 13
Korlaeth coated an arrow tip with Gallowbrush and then moved up silently behind Silent Storm with an arrow
nocked to a bluesteel longbow that had once been a longsword.
"After you, m'lady."
***
As the four charged left onto the bridge, the other four turned right behind Sir Victor.
Silent Storm burst through the double doors in a roll, giving Hawkeye and Korlaeth a clear shot. She swung her
mace in a wide arc as she stood, caving in the skull of the man on her right. Arcadian opted to go with the other
group since Korlaeth decided to take the bridge. The guards at the far end both suffered direct hits.
Sol was next out the door, ready to assist Silent Storm. She had stunned the other guard with her psychic power,
so it was a simple matter for Sol Hawk to deliver the poison to his cheek. In seconds, all four guards were down.
Behind them, Sir Victor had nearly torn the door off its hinges as he slammed through it. He veered right, into the
heart of the room. Arcadian dashed as fast as he could straight ahead, placing himself between a startled man and
a large cord that led into an alcove in the ceiling, wherein a large iron bell lay as-yet undisturbed. The man
reached for it, and Korlaeth quickly blocked him. Simyn further blocked the man when he entered, weapons at the
ready. The choice now was to incapacitate or outright kill.
Valestar eased in quickly, looking to unleash his power, noticing that they had interrupted three guards in the
middle of a meal. One of them choked on his drink as the group rushed in, and another quickly drew his blade and
shouted to his friends in Vassagonian.
"Ring that bell or I'll kill you myself."
***
Egoliah scanned over the message. Good. So the group Kubudei had recruited had been caught. He tossed it onto
his desk, then called the courier over to him.
Of course, no one knows this. I just feel like
setting something up.
I think Simyn was gallowbrushed, and I'm not
sure what Cade would've wanted. I'll be posting
when I get back from night class.
Forgot to tell anyone or put it on the grid.
The rope to the alarm is in square KK7. Do what
you like, but making sure no one can get to that
square would be wise.
"Arouse the Lords for a special council meeting. I am going to leave today for Cloeasia, and I want to inform them
of what to do while I am gone."
---------He walked via the bridge pathways to the main building, where all matters of council were discussed. Two men
followed behind him, pushing an upright box on a wheeled cargo transport. He motioned them to stop outside the
Council doors, then entered alone.
The assembled Lords of the Western Vassagonian Sands all sat in recognition of him entering, placing both hands
flat on the table before them. Egoliah's eyes shot to the vacant chair of Tava'ryn, then spoke.
"I have called you all from your soft beds this morning to announce an acceleration of our plans. The group that
Kubudei sent to plague me has been caught, and is in the adjacent prison dungeon, awaiting interrogation. I will
need one of you to be in charge of that during my absence."
Overlord Antah volunteered.
"It is unfortunate that Tava'ryn was defeated, and that his defeat caused your cowardly soldiers to flee like sunburned feyatas from the victory days ago. Because of them, portions of the Anari Riders and Cloeasian Talons
remain alive. This will make entering Cleoasia difficult.
"So, I want all of you to execute your invasion plans immediately upon adjournment of this meeting. Those headed
to Anari should be advised to carry heavy crossbowmen and longbow-bearing archers. Those headed to Cloeasia
will need to be sure all Kivosha are rested and ready to assault the border wall defenses, for the Talons have likely
retreated there.
"I have sent word to my fleet to begin landing on their shores to weaken them from within. Perhaps that will draw
some to vainly defend the eastern border.
"I will require the escort services of four of you. We will ride with a dozen hand-picked guards--warrior, mage, and
assassin--to the first goal in this quest. The dozen guards are for me. The four of you will be guarding this:"
He rapped a mallet on to the table, and the doors opened. The two guards wheeled in the upright box, and Egoliah
unlocked a large padlock on the front and opened the doors. Inside, chained tightly to the walls of the box and
wearing a silver skullcap, was the bruised and disheveled form of an emaciated and poorly-clad woman.
"Queen Ameesha of Anari."
Murmurs and quiet mocking laughter sounded through the chamber. Ameesha did not respond. She merely stared
at the floor, aware of her immodest coverings--the same outfit she had been abducted in, tortured in, imprisoned
in.
"It is dangerous to have her unsedated," commented one high-ranking Overlord, an open challenger to Egoliah's
sway over Teph.
"My Kivosha have devised this," he said, knocking harshly on the skullcap, "to keep our queen's far-reaching mind
in contained in her own skull. Oh, once recenty she got it off somehow, but she learned that was not to be
tolerated," he said, caressing bluish-yellow bruises on her jaws and cheeks.
Start of Round 1
Rules, Rulings
"We were forced to modify it so that small spikes around the edges could be bent into the skin...so it is locked onto her at
the moment, in a sense."
He gave a dismissive wave, and the two guards pulled the Queen back near the doors.
Four volunteers spoke up to accompany Egoliah.
"Good, once she has psychomanced the podium underneath the ruins, you four can choose amongst yourselves who takes
her as the prize."
Many who didn't volunteer jeered in opposition to not knowing this was the benefit of coming, leaving the four who had
spoken up to gloat and begin plotting how to defeat the others once the time came.
ROUND 1
(move) stays with Silent Storm
(standard) Sudden Foresight (unseen
enemies within 30') Will: 19
(free) Telepathic communication
Move to M7 and use Song of Steel's
True Form.
I hit once. Not so easy to roll good when
you're encumbered. 7 points of damage.
rolled initiatve (after attack rolls clumsy of
me. Got an initiative of 6!
Initiative: 9
Full round:
Aiming for EE and DD
Fireball 1 (DAM 13)
Fireball 2 ((DAM 11)
Sol Hawk was amazed at how quickly Silent Storm had taken out the guards.
Do you think Ameesha might be held nearby? Can your powers find her, Storm?
Sol Hawk pauses for a moment on the bridge, uneasily. There had been another door, but now was not the time to
explore it. He raises both swords. If anyone were to come out now, they would receive a surprise.
***
Korlaeth moved swiftly and silently to the other side of the bridge, ready to disable any who might have heard the guards
fall. He concentrated briefly, and his blue-steel bow was now a khanjar.
***
Guessing that the guards surely would attack them Simyn quickly attacked the guard he and Arcadian had stopped. The
sage was encumbered by the treasures he had stolen, but he succeeded in hitting the guard once. The question was:
would the gallowbrush on the tip of the rapier do the trick?
***
Valestar got as close as he could to the alarm pulley and then, turning, launched a volley of fireballs at two of the
Sharnazim guards.
***
You're right KL, no poison for me. It
wouldn't be honourable, as my blade is
already coated with righteouness.
Initiative: 11
Since my initiative is lower or equal to that
of the Sharn in the room, I'll be moving
after them, so I guess I'll just try to move
to block their way to the bell cord.
If anyone moves within my reach, I'll strike,
with a preference for the commander.
To hit: 20
Damage: 22
If anyone moves within 5' of me, I'll be able
to do a 5' step and attack a second time:
To hit: 31 (crit confirmed)
Damage: 35
KL: The Sharn in DD13 has the same stats
as the one leader, yet is listed as a Shz6 on
the map, as opposed to Shz9 for the leader.
Is that a mistake?
It felt good to know that all of them had survived the debacle at the inn, and even if time was of the essence, the knight
gave words of congratulations and encouragement to the sage and the mage for escaping the guards.
Scanning the hoard before them, Sir Victor quickly spotted a magnificent suit of full plate armour, which seemed almost
custom fit for one his size as well. He donned it as quickly as time allowed, even as he noticed a jewelled broadsword in
an ornate scabbard. The finery was all well and good, if unnecessary, but the blade still had to prove itself in a fight. The
knight missed his own broadsword, which had been a gift from his baron when he reached knighthood, but sentimentality
would have to wait.
Before exiting the room, the knight also grabbed a dagger, a bag of gems, a pouch of coins, as well as his backpack,
which he filled with potions of Laumspur and Alether.
Throughout all of this, the knight couldn't help but think about Bright Lance, his war horse, which had been stabled back
at the inn. He hoped he would find her safe when they escaped. Pushing such matters to the back of his mind, he focused
on the task at hand, which involved fighting sharnazim guards.
As he barged into the guardroom, he quickly spotted the bell cord across from him, and he called to Arcadian, Simyn and
Valestar: "Don't let any of them get near the bell!" He noted with satisfaction that his companions were already rushing
the guard nearest the bell. He heard one the guards bellow something in Vassan which sounded like an order, and
battlefield experience told him that he was their commander. If he were to fall, the guards would probably surrender to
the fierce warriors who had boldly invaded their room. He interposed himself between them and the bell and tried to fill
the space with his a wall of steel, pleased with the way his new blade handled itself. In fact, he realized it was incredibly
well-balanced, and it was probably the finest blade he had ever wielded.
Rules, Rulings
Sorry for the delay, and sorry to see Arcadian
go, but it can be worked seamlessly and gracefully
into the story. No one ever dies simply because they
can't play anymore.
Sol, I'll allow you to rewrite your post based on Silent
Storm's request.----------------------------------------Æ
NPCing Hawkeye----------------------------------------Æ
Korlaeth, never found an initiative roll for you. It is
now 15 unless you rolled one earlier that I missed.
----------------------------------------------------------Æ
I think this is the first time I've fought alongside
the knight. damn but he does a lot of damage.
Even more with my fine new jewelled broadsword!
BTW, KL, what's the distribution of the bonus for the
jewelled dagger, broadsword and full plate? +1
mastercrafted, the rest of the bonus being magical in
nature?
Based on the movement of the intended targets,
I reassigned your damage to one person, Val. Might
have singed Simyn otherwise.-------------------------Æ
SV: Yes, that was a typo. Not that it'll matter much.
You have dished out much pain. The distribution is as
you guessed. All magic above the craftsmanship.
Knights are just plain killing machines. Never
realised that until I begun playing this game. Had not
much experience of D20 until I started playing Lone
Wolf.
For those in the original guard room:
Leader II10: AC16 EP70 Init 20 (intent on
slaughtering Simyn)
For the rest:
You don't know who or how many are coming. Silent
Storm's Sixth Sense has alerted her to the danger
with enough time to have a surprise round. However,
just treat it like a normal round--whoever or whatever
it is won't get to attack until the next round.
She is going to do something rather...unexpected.
None of you have any way of knowing what it is, so
just give her whatever cover support you think she'll
need. If it's rushing into the hallway and shooting an
arrow at whoever you see, make an attack/damage
roll and do it.
Out on the bridge
Silent Storm pulled out a small stilleto dagger that she used to plunge quickly into the chest of each guard
beside her. Come with me, she said to the two Kai as she moved rapidly in a crouched position to where the
next two sleeping guards lay. Again the rapid strikes, ensuring they would not awaken at an inopportune time.
She heard Sol Hawk's inquiry. Beyond my power, she replied quickly. Sol Hawk then scanned the area with his
mind for the enemy, finding nothing abnormal on the level they were on. There were a couple of enemies in
the room on the floor below them, but that could not be helped at the moment.
Hawkeye held his arrows ready and moved to cover Silent Storm, taking a moment to peer over the edge of
the railing of the bridge. There was commotion all over, but nothing seemed out of the ordinary. If they were
to escape Teph, it would take a miracle. First things first, he reminded himself. Watching each end of the
bridge for signs of enemies, Hawkeye kept his bowstring taut.
Korlaeth scampered forward, keeping low as the sun illuminated more and more of the city. The Kai moved
with deadly efficiency, something he had never really expected for a Kai--to be so ruthlessly lethal.
Inside the guard room
The Sharnazim were quick to act, most of all the leader. He rushed toward Simyn and swung a decapitating
blow. The sage was quick to duck, but his arm sought to try and divide the attacks while his mind had already
picked its course of action. The end result was that he only hit the guard he had been by once. Still, once was
enough.
Arcadian waited until Simyn had attacked to act. He drove his weapon into the soft sweet spot behind the
guard's collarbone, down through the top of the ribcage. Pulling the weapon free, blood began to flow freely
from the wound.
The other two guards moved to ring the bell. One rounded his table and came straight for Valestar. The mage
unleashed two bursts of energy from his staff, encasing the guard in a glowing, burning aura. Sir Victor spun
around so as not to strike his enemy in the back, and he buried his blade deep in the man's chest. The weapon
pulled clean free as the other guard tried to move past the knight's open side. He underestimated the knight's
recovery time and power. It cost him dearly, for the Ruanese spun back to his left, raising the level of the
blade as he did. It sliced clean through the man's neck, lifting the head clear of the body by several inches. The
momentum of the body carried it forward a step or two before it collapsed, while the head merely fell to the
floor by the knight. He turned to face their commander, who was intent on doing the same thing to Simyn.
Out on the bridge
Just when everyone felt pleased with how things had turned out, Silent Storm hissed. "Someone's coming
down this hallway! Cover me!" she said, pointing to the doors ahead of her.
The group with her knew the danger was not that someone was coming, but that one errant shout would alert
those in the guard room near where they were.
ROUND 2
Valestar watched the man twitching on the floor carefully, reading to smack him with his staff if he dared get
up.
"I suppose that takes care of that," he said.
"Sir Victor, you're better with armour than I am. Why don't you help the sage, and I'll go check on our
companions."
Valestar left the guard room and came to the long bridge. He sees them moving across slowly, and hurries to
join them, not aware that there may be enemies beneath them.
"What's the situation?" he asks Sol Hawk.
Things are about to heat up.
***
Start of Round 2
Rules,
Rulings
I also forgot
to add a +2 STR
bonus for wielding
my sword twohanded...
Didn't change the
end result though.
5' step to HH9.
Attack leader
twice.
To hit: 33 (crit
confirmed with 28
), 19
Damage: 49, 19,
for a total of 68!
Act VIb,
Conclusion –
Falling Into
the Web
The guard house was all
but theirs. They only
needed to neutralize
the leader before
rejoining the rest of the
group on the bridge.
With this purpose in
mind, the Ruanese
knight stepped close to
Simyn, grabbed his
blade with both hands,
and found a fatal
weakness in the
sharnazim's defense,
even as the man was
trying to kill the
burdened sage.
"Good work everyone,
now let's see if we can
help our friends on the
bridge and do the same
to the next guard
house," he spoke,
words meant to
encourage and
embolden them, for
they still had a long
way to go before
escaping this fortress.
***
(move) to M8
(standard) Total
Defense +4 AC
(if an enemy
appears)
(free) Strafing Will
HIT AC 34, 9 DAM
(psychic) Psychic
Attack DAM 10
Sol Hawk follows Silent
Storm onto the bridge,
looking everywhere for
the enemy. He moves
his twin scimitars into
position, prepared to
defend against anything
that might come their
way...
Sol Hawk leveled his
mental powers upon the
foe, hitting him hard
with a mental attack then sending an arrow
following afterwards. He
could only hope that his
attack had been swift
enough... DAM 9 + 10
***
Simyn had prepared to
attack the leader, but
sir Victor made the
process short with the
Vassagonian. Sir
Victor's style of fighting
was a no nonsense
fighting style - brutal
but very, very efficient.
The sage had to admit
that he was very, very
impressed.
"Do you think that our
friends on the bridge
need our help? I'm
longing to switch my
armour and toss the old
one. I think it would
take one minute though
if we do it sloppy and I
get some help."
***
Yep, sorry,
KL, forgot to roll
initiative. Attack, if
there's someone to
silence, was a 15,
but with a natural
1. Damage is 8, if
I somehow hit.
Commentary
According to the table in the core book it takes me 1 minute to remove my present armour (half a minute
with help) and 1 minute to don it properly or 5 rounds to don it hastily (gives me -1 check penalty). If I had help it
would take me 10 rounds or 1 minute. It would rid me of some of the dead weight I'm carrying.
Ok, when I think about it, I shouldn't be wearing my armour either, as I would not have had the time to put it
on properly, right? So how do I go carrying a big suit of full plate around?
Actual update soon. Answering questions now.
The easiest way to carry things around now is in sacks (which were found in the storage rooms). When you need to
move or fight, you drop the sacks.
Over the weekend, Sol and Kor, decide if you follow SS all the way or not: She is going to charge through the double
doors and rush into the next guard room, no matter who or what is in it.
As you move after her, you see a large man in a crimson-edged Sharnazim uniform with gemstone accents flanked
and preceeded by two other Sharnazim. Your attacks will hit one of the two in front--if you do not rush into the room.
Decide over the weekend, else I'll have you rush into the room after SS. Hawkeye is taking a shot at one of them
unless he posts otherwise.
Valestar will hang outside the room and use Force Barrier on the Warlord's sword (if he has one) to keep it in
its sheathe (if allowed). If not, or if he doesn't have a sheathed weapon, then Valestar will launch two fireballs at
maximum power at the Warlord...
... unless the others are in the way, in which case he'll run forward and place a force barrier over himself, getting the
others in its field of effect and protecting them, too...
... that works, right?
Sacks? Should have thought about that! I put everything in my backpack. If we don't have the time to don
the armour, no matter. When the goings get though the though gets going!
KaiLord wrote:
As you move after her, you see a large man in a crimson-edged Sharnazim uniform with gemstone
accents flanked and preceeded by two other Sharnazim. Your attacks will hit one of the two in front--if
you do not rush into the room.
Decide over the weekend, else I'll have you rush into the room after SS. Hawkeye is taking a shot at
one of them unless he posts otherwise.
I'm confused. Where are these three Sharnazim?
They would be around the F/G/H 12/13 area. I'm just letting you know that you would see them if you
decided to rush after Silent Storm into the room. You wouldn't know they were there until you rounded the corner,
and you wouldn't know she was going to rush into the room until she actually did.
So, you have the choice to either go after her or deal with these guys.
Sol Hawk will cover SS with his previously mentioned attacks, but will not rush into the room. Will hit the Red
Sharn if possible, otherwise will shoot at one of the others, especially one who is already hurt but not down yet.
Failing that, he simply shoots any enemy he can.
I had figured all three of you would stop in the hall. I just wanted to verify instead of force your actions.
Sorry for the confusion. Harder to do things like this post by post over the course of days.
Korlaeth watched in
unpleasant amazement
as Silent Storm killed
the sleeping guards on
the bridge. He shook
his head as he ducked
through the
door...questions would
have to wait.
I would indeed probably stop to attack the sharnazim in the hall. However, if Silent Storm went into the room
alone, I would probably follow her, as I trust in my companions abilities to deal with the enemy, but hers are still
largely unknown to me...
***
All contingencies and considerations taken into account. Since I don't have to buy groceries for 1.5 hours
when I get off again, I should be able to update things.
Start of Round 3
Rules, Rulings
Sharnazim Elite
Bodyguard 1 (F12): AC17
EP 92/100 Init 14
Sharnazim Elite
Bodyguard 2 (F14): AC16
EP 95 Init 17
Overlord Antah (G13):
AC18 EP 175 Init 12
Antah is rouglhy the same
size as Sir Victor. His
scimitars are +4 Jewelled
Scimitars, and he has a
+4 Str bonus to hit. Base
attack is
+31/+23/+18/+13. I say
that to forewarn you that
he can rip you apart in
close combat. Fight with
your wits, not your fists
alone.
By Ishir, what I
wouldn't give for some
character points or action
dice! The forum dice gods
hate me! Used a full
round action to attempt
to use Word: Denial, but
rolled a crappy 12.
Simyn used all his skills to avoid being skewered, buying time for Sir Victor to move upon the Sharnazim and rather brutally end his life in a
bloody fashion. The man was almost split in half by the Ruanese man's power. Valestar rushed out, meeting up with Sol Hawk just as the
Kai Lord moved after Silent Storm. Hawkeye and Korlaeth followed.
Blood still dripping from his new-found blade, Sir Victor dashed as quickly as he could across the bridge, having recovered the sack that
contained his armor. Simyn followed close after him, with Arcadian bringing up the rear, obviously fidgety about something.
Silent Storm burst into the room, using her mind to open the door before she arrived. Immediately she tore though the throat of a nearby
guard, then turned to face no-telling-how-many more, as shouts arose from within the room.
As Korlaeth entered the building behind Silent Storm, he glanced down the hallway before heading into the room after her. He stopped near
the door in case she needed help, but he was certain they were about to need help.
The two Kai were right behind him, and quick to react. Hawkeye let loose his arrow, which grazed off one of the men in the hallway. Sol
Hawk calmly sent his own attack. Once more death came for him, it seemed.
Striding purposefully down the hall, flanked by his Sharnazim Elite Bodyguards was Overlord Antah. He held back a step as everyone darted
by, then shouted as his bodyguards to attack as the arrows flew toward them. A menacing scowl on his grizzled face, the Overlord reached
for his twin scimitars.
Yes, as he had promised Egoliah, these interlopers would pay with their lives.
ROUND 3
Korlaeth's eyes widened slightly at the huge man moving down the hall toward them, but his smile never wavered.
"I recommend we keep back." he said to his friends and then concentrated on the Brotherhood lore that had so far eluded him, willing the
enemies' senses to desert them. He focused on the hallway and spoke the word.
"Aaaah!" he shouted, more in frustration then pain from the useless energies that coursed through him.
Rules,
Rulings
(psychic) Psychic
Attack on Antah: 9
DAM
(free) speaks
(free) Strafing Will on
Antah HIT AC25 6 DAM
(standard) Total
Defense +4 AC coupled
with Power of Pure
Mind
(move) To J6
OOC: Notes - SH loses
2 WP (PsiAttack) 1 EP
(SW) 1 arrow (MC) and
Alether potency
reduced by 1 round.
Act VIb, Conclusion –
Falling Into the Web
Storm, we need you! Sol sent his
message through the ether, then
mentally showed her the scene of the
oncoming Sharnazim Warriors.
They had been discovered. Sol Hawk
caught eye contact with Antah and let
his emerging magnakai power explode
into the Overlord's mind. 9 DAM He
followed this with one of his arrows drawn free by his Mind Over Matter
ability. It soared through the air to strike
his foe, strengthened by the rush of
Adrenaline in Sol Hawk's veins 6 DAM.
At Korlaeth's words, Sol Hawk retreated,
holding his swords in a defensive
posture. He called upon all of his power
to create a burning destructive field of
energy all around him. He wouldn't let
anyone through. Not without a fight.
Sol Hawk stepped toward the bridge
where the others were. "We have
trouble," he said, "The father of all
Sharnazim is coming. Get ready, my
friends."
***
Move action to get
back on the bridge, as
far as he can go while
still keeping track of
the companions. I can't
take the Overlord at
close range, I would be
dead even with force
shield.
Valestar is moving to
P7.
Valestar heard the sound of fighting
ahead as Sol Hawk rushed past him with
the others. Cursing, Valestar followed,
stepping gingerly over the bodies of the
fallen. He left the bridge and came
inside another guard tower move action.
Hawkeye was standing there, his eyes
forward.
"How close are we to escaping?"
Valestar asked. "Hah! Let the Sharnazim
come! They shall feel the wrath of the
staff of Valestar! I mean, we were able
to take out that fool in the desert,
weren't we? Soon we will have all of our
enemy's heads on pikes! What are you
looking at me like that for?"
The sound of Korlaeth swearing made
him turn around, and then he saw the
threat that faced them. He swore in the
Eldar language. But then a plan came to
him. If only it would work...
"Sol Hawk! Korlaeth! Hawkeye! Lead
them onto the bridge! I have a plan!"
Commentary
Move action to get back on the bridge, as far as he can go while still keeping track of the
companions. I can't take the Overlord at close range, I would be dead even with force shield.
Valestar would like to call upon an Earth Elemental to smash the bridge when the soldiers get on
it. I imagine this takes a concentration roll:
15+13=28.
He won't call upon the spirit until the heroes are on the bridge and the overlord is following. Then
he'll immediately summon the spirit and will just have to keep the overlord occupied until it can
come.
Be sure to give me locations as to where you move. Also, contingency plans in case
the Overlord doesn't take the bait. And I have to say this: is this plan your final answer?
Valestar is moving to P7. Dessi Mages don't have contingency plans, unless it involves
putting up a power shield and waiting a thousand years for the chosen one to appear.
My plan is definite - but not prepared to plan past this round yet. Sol Hawk is falling
back toward the Bridge either way for now, as shown.
I'm falling back to P6.
Very well--shattered bridge it is (if all goes as planned). I'll decide what happens and
write it up sometime this weekend.
But then we'll be stuck on the wrong side of the bridge to SS and escape.
Yeah, under further consideration, maybe we'd better just beat on this guy. Valestar, did
you have to command the Earth Elemental to shatter the Bridge on the round you summoned it,
or will it take commands from you at any time?
I haven't summoned it yet, but I still think there's merit in the idea. See the OOC thread.
If that still doesn't appeal, then I'll listen to suggestions for other plans of attack.
"I am Valestar!" he taunts the overlord.
"And I will parade your head through the
streets of your homeland for the
peasants to spit upon!"
I like your ideas. I say summon one of those badboyz and so long as you don't destroy
the bridge, I'm sure we are going to be just fine. Make sure to mention what square you want
And then he backpeddaled as slowly as
he dared back onto the bridge.
the Elemental to appear on so I don't end up standing in it
the century.
Good luck all, onto the fight of
***
I'm falling back
to P6.
Hearing the words of Valestar, Simyn
continued in Vassan. "Those scimitars
look dull. By Lyrisian standards they
wouldn't even be fit to cut a roast. I
wonder how Vassagonia could have
become so large? Perhaps it is because
desert sand is not of value for
Vassagonia's neighbours. Who really
wants to rule this pile of sand?" Simyn
did an obscene gesture at the overlord,
a gesture he had learnt from a
Vassagonian scholar.
***
SV moves to K7,
and drops the bag with
the armour again.
Drinks a potion of
Alether that will last 7
rounds (+3 to hit and
to damage, -2 to same
once it expires)
Sir Victor approached the doors at the
end of the bridge, across from where he
could see his companions. His brow
furrowed as he noticed the look on Sol's
face, who then started to backpedal
furiously. His next words confirmed what
the knight had guessed. Looks like they
had some more company! Good, thought
the knight, I'm not quite through testing
this new broadsword yet. He took a
moment to unstopper and drink one of
the two potions of Alether he had
grabbed in the treasure room.
***
The fun thing with elementals are that they rarely do what the magician want, but gives
him what he really needs.
Ready to post my update. Waiting on updated Valestar/Simyn actions in light of not
shattering the bridge, and Korlaeth actions.
Valestar will backpedal for now, becuase he only has a standard move action left. He's
going to get out of range of the Overlord if he can. Next turn he will call upon a water elemental
(standard) and then throw one of his glass bottles of water (move action?) at the Overlord,
trying to smash it on his armour (unless the roll is going to be ridiculously hard, then I'll just
smash it at his feet).
Still on the bridge then? Last I saw you were at P7 after taunting the OL.
Keep in mind some of these posts will be deleted so the story isn't broken much. I'll split them
off into a special OOC maybe.
I'm figuring Valestar had to run in to see the Overlord before he could come up with any
plan.
Well, since my action wasn't really related to shattering the bridge, and since I already
rolled (and failed
) it wouldn't be very fair of me to suddenly change my action. It's at the
very top of this page.
Korlaeth, who just realized Enchantment could make a pretty effective Mirror Image spell...
Rules, Rulings
Silent Storm pressed deeper into the room, grunting either in pain or exertion--no one could tell. Steel rang out numerous
times.
I guessed on grid locations, and moved
Simyn inside since the bridge idea was
nixed.
Sharnazim Elite Bodyguard 1 (F9): AC16 EP
76/100 Init 14
Sharnazim Elite Bodyguard 2 (H9): AC16 EP
95 Init 17
Overlord Antah (G13): AC28(18) EP
144/175 Init 12
Arcadian moved into the building and saw the coming danger out of the corner of his eye. So be it. He moved into a
defensive position next to Hawkeye and readied himself to channel his magic. The large man would not fight them first-the Vassagonians were cowards that way, hiding behind shields of people to ignorant to think independently of another
man's orders. He would take them down one by one.
One of the guards moved forward and lashed out at Sol Hawk, who had little room to maneuver next to the wall. He tried
his best to block the attack, but the blade still sliced into his upper arm. Sol Hawk: -7 EP
Sol Hawk ignored the attack as best he could, concentrating instead on the Overlord. He backed up into a corner as his
attacks drew blood. Korlaeth backed up as well, irritated that his magic had failed him at a critical time.
Hawkeye fired down the hallway in rapid succession, striking the OverLord twice. His mind sought the OverLord's mind
and found it undefended. The psychic attack hit as easily as Sol's had.
The other bodyguard lunged forward then, trying to drive his blade through Arcadian's chest. The Vakeros turned at the
last moment, and the scimitar gouged a chunk out of the stone wall instead. Using a fury within him, a fury created from
a number of sources--Arcadian reacted reflexively with his battle magic. He shoved his hand, encased in blue energy,
forward at the guard. The magic leapt from his hand and struck the man directly in the center of his left shoulder,
spinning him around and knocking him back almost to where he had been before. The energy exploded in a spray of blue
motes. "Get back!" growled the young man. -1 FP (extra action)(perfect cast)(double damage)
Antah began to whirl his swords around him, mindful that there were archers and sorcery coming his way. His blades
whistled through the air as they criss-crossed in front of him. The man did not move. Twin Scimitar Defense Mastery...his
AC is now 28.
Sir Victor advanced toward the double doors at Sol's warning. He thumbed out the cork stopper of the alether and drank
it as he walked. The liquid tingled inside his throat, and he instantly felt as if he were falling. His body reveled in the
newfound energy, and his breathing and heartrate increased. His excitation level surpassed its threshold immediately. The
thing that he had trained his entire life for, combat in defense of another, came to the forefront of his mind. These people
were coming between them and the stolen princess. They must fall. Twirling his sword into a ready position, he prepared
himself as the initial rush of alether gripped him.
Valestar moved inside and saw what they were up against. Perhaps taunting was not the best of ideas, in retrospect.
Regardless, he retrieved a bottle of water and prepared to act. Simyn was near him, unsure how to proceed, yet ready to
attack anyone who came close to him.
Start of Round 4
Rules, Rulings
All attacks against Bodyguard 2
(fullround) Two weapon fighting with Scimitars, 3 attacks 14, 16, 12 DAM
(free) Strafing Will 11 DAM
(psychic) Psychic Attack 7 DAM
(Alether) Now 2 rounds left
(free) 5' step if needed
OOC: Sol Hawk loses 1 EP (SW) 2 WP (Mental Attack) and 1 arrow (MC).
Sol Hawk's Alether Potion has now but 2 rounds left.
Would you look at that, you guys are all lined up on the map!
It's like looking at the usual suspects against a white backdrop.
First round under the effect of Alether (6 left).
Move 15 feet to H8.
Attack Bodyguard 2.
Hit AC 21.
Damage: 30.
SH and I just wounded him for 78 EP! Good job.
Since I move after this bodyguard and SH, and I just noticed SH was also
attacking him, I'll try to flank him if possible. If he stays there, I move as
stated.
Ok, I just realized that if BG2 moves to attack SH, then he's within 5' of
me, meaning that I can unleash a full attack against him. Forget about
flanking then, unless BG2 moves to J7, then I'll move to J8 to flank him and
full attack him as well.
In this scenario, my second attack hits AC26, for 27 damage.
Total damage: 57.
Plus SH's 48 damage, = one dead BG2 (105 EP lost).
ROUND 4
As the bodyguard steps closer, Sol Hawk lashes out against him with everything he has.
In a flurry of blades and mental attacks, the Bodyguard is taken aback - it is as if a small
star has exploded upon the spot. Total DAM on Bodyguard 2: 60 DAM plus Gallowbrush
"Be ready," he says, gripping tight to his scimitars.
***
Upon seeing the enemy, Sir Victor didn't hesitate and plunged into the melee, freshly
invigorated by the potion he just drank. All his senses were on edge, and his warrior's
mind was even keener than usual, focusing on one thing and one thing only: the
protection of his companions, who were threatened by enemies.
His blade sang as it sliced through the air, terribly wounding the target of his attack. Even
as he was engaged against this sharnazim bodyguard, another man, presumably the
leader of the guards, was waiting at the back, trying to use his blades as fans and looking
self-important.
***
Gee... wonder where everyone went?
Well, not much to do here except look innocent and hum along to the beautiful sunrise.
Desperado... why don't you come to your senses?
You've been out riding fences for so long now
Hmmm... I can never remember the next line...
In any case, it's me, Varsuvial, after a long period of silence. I've been doing a lot of
thinking lately, and I've come to realize that this whole adventure is not near as
complicated as everyone thinks it is. To me the whole things reads like a text book, with
the major points highlighted and the answers on page 182 (it's a small textbook).
So then I got to thinking... maybe I should tell them all who it is, and where they should
go next. But then I thought... well, they seem to like the mystery of it all! Those crazy
humans. But then I thougt... without my help, they might fail! And then I'd be out of a
master! Of course, it would mean I'd be free... but then where would I get my sweet
oats?
VARSUVIAL!
Oh sweet oats... how I pine for thee.
Stay tuned for next time, when I'll lead us all on a philosophical journey of discovery
when I ponder the meaning of good and evil.
***
The attack had come too quickly! They were caught, and the bridge wouldn't be reached
in time for them all to get to safety. Besides, the Earth Elemental could take too long, and
if it didn't work, they'd have alerted the whole city for nothing. Even as he became aware
of his idea's shortcomings, Sol Hawk looked at him and nodded. He had guessed the
mage's plans and knew that it was too late to initiate them. Valestar nodded back, but he
wasn't sure the Kai Lord had seen it, for he had launched himself at one of the
bodyguards, cutting him in ways that made Valestar wince.
Sir Victor was next to act, rushing forward and roaring as he cut down the stunned
bodyguard with one vicious blow. The Overlord didn't even stop to consider his dead
comrade. He simply kept coming.
As soon as Valestar has a clear shot, he'll call upon the spirit and throw
the bottle at the Overlord.
That's when Valestar had a new idea...
***
Full attack with two thrown daggers at BG1. Damage is 4 for each
dagger. Total damage = 8.
Korlaeth watched the Overlord stand back to wait. His overconfidence was a weakness the
companions would be able to exploit.
Korlaeth quickly flung two daggers out at the nearest of the Overlord's bodyguards,
satisfaction evident in his face when both daggers connected.
***
+2 Dex to everyone who is standing in a 10 feet radius surrounding me.
Lasts 9 rounds I believe, since that is my current level. This is a full-round
action. Now give him hell!
Nice one Sir Victor! I'm applying the +2 "hit" bonus due to flanking with
you. I assume we qualify for this bonus due to working together - and
that's another 12 DAM to the bodyguard from me, now from a missed
attack (hit AC14) which is now going to be a hit (vs. AC16).
Of course, if Bodyguard 2 charged, his AC would drop in any case.
And Simyn, in future rounds, the added DEX will also help me hit since my
weapon is a Finesse Weapon. Not to mention a +1 bonus to every person's
Initiative!
Awesome!
Adjusting my post now...
Okay, looks like all the able-to have posted. I've got an irritating cold,
plus I had to keep both kids today (impromptu). End result is that I got
nothing done. I'll work on a post tonight at work and update in the morning
if I don't pass out first.
With his rapier in hand Simyn began tracing a pattern in the air in front of him. He usually
prefered doing this with his fingers, but there was not really a difference doing it with the
point of a rapier. What Simyn traced was the arcane symbol for Iaos the star of air,
Simyn's chosen star, the star he was born under. The sages believed that people who was
born under Iaos was dexterous and agile, and now Simyn decided to share this power
with his companions.
***
Unbeknownst to those outside the room, Silent Storm was engaged in her own struggle.
She had already stunned the opposition's leader and was maneuvering into position to
finish him off, opening herself up to attacks as she did so. She felt the ever-present
tugging at her mind, reminding her that she was a Kai and that she was not to exact
vengeance upon these people for her past.
Arcadian watched as the Sharnazim he had knocked backwards staggered and began
again to advance. Fine. He moved his weapon in the symbol of the Vakeros word for the
strength offered by the foundation of a building. Speaking the word as he finished the
gesture, a blue-white arc of energy engulfed his weapon, then his arm, then him entirely.
He held his ground and waited for the dark aggressor to arrive.
Meanwhile, the other bodyguard surged forward and thrust his blade clean through Sol
Hawk's thigh. Sol Hawk: -9 EP The Kai fought back, his thoughts reaching for Kai in
intercession for his friends. He must live to keep them alive.
Rules,
Rulings
Korlaeth and
Arcadian don't have
Simyn's proximity bonus.
This did not set well with the OverLord.
Sharnazim Elite
Bodyguard 1 (F9):
AC14 EP 57/100
Init 12
crippled, bleeding -1
AC28(18) EP 131/175
Init 12
Out of the corner of his eye, he saw Korlaeth hurl daggers at the man on their side of the hallway. Both sunk into tissue, doing little to faze
the man, however. Meanwhile, Hawkeye continued to attack Antah. He was focused on the man, oblivious to the battle within arm's reach.
He pulled two arrows in rapid succession, managing to sneak one past the OverLord's defenses.
The Sharnazim struck Arcadian in the hip, almost slashing Korlaeth's gut in the process, but the Vakeros seemed to ignore the pain. He
hammered a powerful blow into the Sharnazim's thigh, like he was felling a might tree. It had much the same effect--the sword cleaved to
the bone, leaving a dance of blue energy around the wound as he pulled the blade free. -1 FP (extra magical damage, double standard
action)
Antah dropped his defensive twirl of the blades and focused on Hawkeye. The OverLord would make quick work of this cowardly archer.
With a howl of fury, the OverLord strode down the hallway.
At the same instant, Sir Victor slammed into the door to the building and caught the Sharnazim bodyguard unprepared. Two vicious axelike blows of the blade tore the life from the man, who collapsed at his and Sol Hawk's feet. The two shared a brief glance, then saw the
OverLord stride into view.
Antah's right blade whistled through the air and smashed into Hawkeye's shoulder, snapping his collarbone in half like a dry twig. Blood
sprayed into the air as the OverLord deftly twisted the blade and followed through with the attack, slicing further into his body. Swooning in
pain, the Kai fought to remain conscious. He dropped his bow--and not of his own free will...his left hand would no longer hold it. Hawkeye:
-14 EP, bleeding -1/round, AC -2, Attack rolls -2, left arm useless
Assuming you're going to throw the water and summon the elemental now. In an odd sort of response to the attack upon the man right
next to him, Valestar howled the words of his spell and threw the water bottle at the OverLord. The fragile flask shattered against the man's
forehead, spraying water and glass shards into the air. Tiny cuts began to trail blood on the OverLord's forehead as he grunted and fixed
his eyes upon Valestar.
Simyn opened his eyes and looked around, confident he had performed his metaphysical feat properly. The stars were now aligned in such
a way as to benefit his friends in this fight. He shouted a rallying cry to them, and no sooner had he finished than a shrill female yelp
sounded from the room where Silent Storm had gone.
Start of Round 5
Rules, Rulings
Ye gods! Will someone distract the Overlord so Valestar can get away from all
this and into a long range position? I assume the elemental is summoned and now
on its way? I'm not going to post my actions until I know whether the Overlord is
distracted or not. If not, it won't matter much because I will surely be dead.
EDIT: Oh wait, I thought Hawkeye had been taken down to -14 EP, not dropped by
14. Okay, I may be able to survive an attack. But Valestar would still rather get
into a better position. Or, if I stay here and use a full attack, I could summon a
force shield and fling a single fireball at the man, or hit him with my staff (lol).
If possible I drop my backpack and my crossbow, thus gaining light
encumbrance. Removing the backpack could perhaps be a move action and
dropping it should be free? If possible I draw the poignard as well in this round.
ROUND 5
Valestar saw Hawkeye stagger, but he had not time for sadness. The look on the
Overlord's face told him he was next, and for the first time in his life, Valestar
knew that he truly faced the end of his days.
***
The sage quickly removed his backpack and the crossbow who he had secured on
the flap of the pack. He longed to flex his muscles but this was not really the time
for such luxuries. He unsheathed his poignard and prepared himself for battle.
***
I don't normally broadcast this ahead of time, but if you want to do all that
and make a full attack, Simyn, fate will allow you to do that.
(delay - 12)
(free) Strafing Will hit AC 22 DAM 11
(psychic) Psychic Attack Autohit DAM 3
(fullround) Scimitar Attack 1: Miss (rolled 1, but not crit fumble)
(fullround) Scimitar Attack 2: hit AC19, DAM 14 + Gallowbrush
(fullround) Scimitar Attack 3: hit AC22, DAM 15 + Gallowbrush
NOTE 1: Sol Hawk loses 1 EP, 2 WP, a MC arrow.
NOTE 2: Hard for Sol Hawk to hit AC28, but according to the Sharn Class, Defense
Mastery is a Special Action that does not allow Antah to move. So if he comes after
me, his AC will be back down to 18 anyway and I'll spank him a lot. Defense
Mastery also robs him of all his attacks but 1. I think we have him now.
Hit the bodyguard for a measley four damage.
Sol Hawk saw the Overlord slamming into Hawkeye, taking a chunk out of him.
The man's eyes were full of rage, and Sol Hawk calmed himself before then
announcing himself directly to Antah.
"That's not the Kai Lord you want, Sharnazim baboon," he said, "That is to say,
Aymodani's poison arrow is what killed Tava'ryn. It was I who killed Aymodani for
it, then saw Tav'ryn dead with it. Perhaps you've seen these before..." He holds up
the twin blades of Tava'ryn, and in the scant light, they gleam, reflecting the fine
detail which is outlined in the blood of Antah's bodyguard.
Sol Hawk was silent then, holding his blades as if they were his own by right.
Almost as an afterthought, he added, "Who shall be my third Feyata?"
DAM SW:11, PA:3, Sc1: MISS, Sc2:14+Gallowbrush, Sc3:15+Gallowbrush
***
Korlaeth watched as the Sharnazim bodyguard practically ignored the daggers
thrown at him. He shrugged and drew another dagger, this time bluesteel gleamed
in his hand. He lashed out at the sharnazim nearby and drew blood. His smile grew
wider and he spoke in Vassan loud enough to be heard across the hall.
"This banou already slew one of your kind, Overlord," Korlaeth poured enough
scorn into the title that he may as well have called Antah a feyata, "you'll be no
more difficult."
***
Second round under the effects of Alether (5 left).
5' step to I8.
Full attack:
Hit AC 17 and 22 (19 and 24 with likely flanking bonus).
Damage: 31, 26.
If I hit with my first attack, then I won't have used my Born to the sword skill,
otherwise, I used it and I rolled the same, so it's still a miss.
If Antah is not using his defensive skill, he's at AC 18, unless, there's another
ability which grants him an AC boost.
The bodyguard died very quickly due to the severity of the wounds dealt by Sol
and the knight. Without sparing the dead man a second glance, the brave knight
was already looking to the next foe, the Overlord himself.
The man was big, almost as big as Sir Victor himself, and it looked like his
scimitars were not only for show. The knight winced inwardly as he witnessed the
Overlord's bladework on Hawkeye, then wasted no more time as he charged
headlong into the fray, intent on saving his friends' lives with his own, if need be.
***
Valestar wrote:
In case I don't get a chance to post today, Valestar will do the
following:
He will move into the room with silent storm and help her if she is being
attacked (help her with fireballs). If she's not being attacked, he will
launch fireballs at the Overlord.
As Sol posted, those are my actions. I'm not really cowardly, but I think the
best thing Valestar could do at this moment is take care of anyone threatening
Silent Storm.
Round 5 full round attack of fate
Okay, if the overlord has 18 in AC when I attack him. I hit thrice for a total of 10
points of damage. It feels like I'm fighting him with cutlery.
Valestar decided he did not like fighting at close range. Especially against people
as large as the Overlord. And further so, for people as large as the Overlord who
wielded very sharp swords. And even more, for people as large as he, wielding
sharp swords that had just demonstrated their sharpness on the guy standing next
to him.
They were losing their fighters fast. If only they had one more, someone with
experience. Valestar suddenly remembered the Kai who had come with the other
group. Where had she dissapeared to?
At that moment, he heard the cry come from the other room. Was that his
answer? Being a brave (read: cowardly) mage, he abandoned this field of battle
and instead went on a journey of discovery into the next room...
***
Suspecting that his unorthodox fighting style would not be unfamiliar to the
overlord Simyn began striking against the overlord with the intent to kill.
***
Silent Storm was independent and powerful. She had risen though the ranks of the
Kai to become one of the most respected grandmasters in years. However, this
recent battle had just humbled her. She had underestimated her opponents, and it
had cost her dearly. She looked at the spear protruding out of her abdomen,
stained slightly red with her own blood. The spear moved an instant before the
waves of pain struck--he was trying to sling her around with it, using the pain to
incapacitate her. It worked--a blade tore through her chest, laying open the skin to
the ribs.
"Help!" she cried.
Arcadian suffered from tunnel vision. He saw only the guard in front of him. The
rest of them could have the OverLord--he wanted this man to fall. He lashed out in
fury, driving the man back a step.
Sol Hawk enacted a ploy to draw Antah to him. At the sound of his jeers, the
Vassagonian became awash with insult and fury. To suggest he could kill Antah
merely because he had killed the little puppet Tava'ryn.... The Kai waited patiently,
with a calm the others might never understand.
Korlaeth would have done more damage, but Arcadian had driven the man out of
arm's reach. The Sharnazim was forced to ignore Korlaeth for now--Arcadian was
attacking with the ferocity of a rabid elix.
Rules, Rulings
Sol Hawk: You're now
bleeding at -2 EP/round. So,
you are at 2 EP, since the
bleeding started this round.
All attacks at -4 from
subcritical damage.
Valestar: The man
horizontally opposite Silent
Storm has his spear in her
back just above her kidney.
The other one is hacking
away at her.
Sharnazim Elite Bodyguard 1
(F9): AC14 EP 39/100 Init
12, crippled, bleeding -1
AC28(18) EP 15/175 Init 12
But that was nothing compared to the viciousness of the attack that the Kai Sol Hawk was about to suffer. As Antah neared, the Kai
began to strike, unable to defend himself against the OverLord's own attacks. The slender blades of the Kai slashed across his black
garb, one time only severing cloth instead of flesh. Antah's own attacks were tremendous. The initial strike skewered the Kai's lung,
barely missing his heart. A twirl tore it free and landed the second across his shoulder. A powerful hack to the chest broke ribs and
jarred the already damaged body. Finally, the OverLord spun and laid his last attack into the shocked form of Valestar, slamming the
mage against the wall from the force. Sol Hawk: -41 EP, Valestar: -12 EP
Hawkeye saw his fellow Kai fall under the blade of the brutal Sharnazim OverLord. All the times he trained unconventional combat on
his own time came back to him. He twirled and sat, looping his feet under his bowstring as his good arm retrieved an arrow and nocked
it on the string. Bracing the bowstock with his feet, he rocked back and balanced with his legs extended, making himself a human
crossbow. At this close range, the shot was a given. He released the string, and the arrow embedded deep in the back of Antah's
shoulder. -1 FP, restrictions ignored, unconventional attack, full actions
Sir Victor took opportunity where he found it--attacking while Antah sliced through his friends like a scythe through wheat. The two
titans locked eyes as the blood flowed from the wounded. It was clear that Sir Victor was now categorized as a threat and would be
treated as such, now that the Kai whelp was pouring blood from his wounds.
Simyn had seen enough carnage and was determined to end this bloodletting by taking the OverLord out. He dropped all he had in
order to attack better, then his slender weapons danced through the air and laid open two more wounds.
At that moment a heavy mist filled the corridor with a soft whoosh. Then the mist concentrated itself where Valestar had been (for he
had slipped away nursing his arm to heed Silent Storm's cry for aid), and unleashed itself from an orb form floating in the air towards
Antah. The blast of water slammed into the man with the force of a charging baknar, knocking him back into a corner while dousing Sir
Victor and Sol Hawk.
Start of Round 6
Rules, Rulings
KL, if SH chooses to use
Glancing Blow, how much would the
damage be? I seem to recall that the
Overlord's Scimitars do 3d2 instead
of 1d6, but I just wanted to be clear.
If Antah kicks the bucket
before I have the chance to hit him I
try to help Sol Hawk if he needs it.
Else I will lash out at Antah with the
rage of the sage and inflict a total of
14 points of damage.
(free) drops one of his scimitars
(move) retrieves Laumspur
(standard) drinks Laumspur
(free) talks... Bluff on Antah
(psychic) Psychic Attack
(free) Strafing Will HIT AC 33 DAM
10
OOC: SH -2 WP, -1 EP SW, Alether
over at end of round
3rd round of Alether (4 left)
Full round attack against Antah
Hit: 34, 33
Damage: 14, 18
If Antah dies from these attacks,
move 5' to H9 to flank bodyguard.
ROUND 6
Sol Hawk gasped with eyes wide as the Overlord struck him. Breathing had become an exercise in futility as his lung rebelled like
an empty, flopping sack inside his chest. Somehow he knew that Silent Storm was suffering a similar grisly impalment as he
heard her voice calling for help in the haze. Sol Hawk fought back the waves of nasea and pain - Antah was going to kill him
now. The attacks of himself, Simyn, and Sir Victor had not been enough to fell the giant.
Then, as if out of nowhere, Antah was forced away at the very last second by a blast of water. Valestar's doing. Sol Hawk reeled
as the freezing cold water struck him - he was wet, we was bleeding. But the blast had awakened him to his senses. He
motioned at Simyn, unable to speak, but as he waved toward Antah, the meaning was clear.
In the commotion and the chaos, Sol Hawk managed to fight free his potion of Laumspur which he had in his backpack. He
downed it - intentionally allowing some of the liquid to spill down his windpipe. The Kai Master resisted the urge to erupt into a
terrible coughing fit - not only would that expel the precious medicine, but also it would tear apart what was left of his lung.
+19EP, Laumspur, bleeding stopped
Sol's remaining scimitar was raised then at once in defense - Antah would not strike him then so easily. As the huge man cleared
the water from his eyes, Sol Hawk caught his attention with a blast from his psychic powers. autohit DAM 5
"Overlord," said Sol Hawk, "even as you fight us here, my friends have already freed Princess Ameesha. Didn't you know that we
would free her?" Sol Hawk said, motioning to the passageway from which Antah had come, "We knew where she was. Back
there." Bluff 24
Sol Hawk watched his adversary - for any hint regarding Princess Ameesha's location. Sol Hawk's eyes lit with understanding at
the Overlord's reaction. No sooner had this happened, Sol Hawk channeled his psychic fury into Tava'ryn's scimitar. The blade
shot straight and true through the air at Overlord Antah's chest - straight through his defenses, a finely crafted silver indeed.
Buried all the way to the grip. HIT AC 33 DAM 10
***
Finally, the knight had drawn the overlord's attention to him, sparing his companions from any more of his vicious attacks. The
man was barely standing anymore, and soon he would no longer be a threat to anyone in this world, Sir Victor would see to that
personally.
"And so it ends, fiend," uttered the Ruanese as he dealt what he knew to be the killing blow.
Full Round Action: use fireball
(attack 16, damage 22... if that
doesn't hit, I think I'd like to reroll
using fate's blessing) on the spear
wielder/Put up force shield (spent 9
willpower)
Free action: intimidate 8
***
Valestar didn't think twice... or, more accurately, he thought exactly twice. Once for the fireball aimed at the man with the spear
in Silent Storm's back, and once to raise a shield around himself.
"You Vassagonian swine!" he called. "Your master is soon to be dead! If you do not wish to join him in the abyss, then flee now!"
***
Korlaeth watched first Hawkeye and then Sol Hawk nearly leave this world due to the Overlord's scimitars. However, he also saw
the immediate response of the knight's fierce broadsword, but Korlaeth feared it may be too little, too late. At the same time, he
heard the kai lady call out for help. Korlaeth's smile began to slip in his worry for all concerned. It was so much more difficult
working with a crowd!
Suddenly, a thought came, and Korlaeth's smile returned. He gazed at Antah and channeled the magic of the Elders into the
Overlord's mind. Before him stood Tava'ryn in his black desert robes, "You can't win, Antah. The Sand Mother calls for you, and
you know she will not be denied."
Mental Mirage on Antah and then
move to A 10.
Even as the image seared itself into Antah's mind, Korlaeth dashed into the next room, hoping to at least give the guards therein
another target to consider.
***
Arcadian would not be denied more blood from the bodyguard, and he drove his blade deep. Hawkeye joined in with the power of
his mind, causing the bodyguard to stagger. The man winced in pain and fell to his knees, gripping his scimitar tightly. "My lord-I've failed you!"
Antah was not cognizant of this however. Korlaeth's illusion filled his vision and he faltered, dropping his guard long enough for
the Kai and Knight to press their attacks. Raising his scimitar in warding against the mirage only he could see, the OverLord left
himself wide open for Sir Victor's killing attack. The blade sunk deep into his chest, severing his heart as the broad sword tore
halfway through the man's torso.
Sir Victor took a step toward the bodyguard and swung his blade in an upward-rising slash and did to the bodyguard what Antah
had done to Hawkeye. He poised to bring the blade back down, but Simyn stopped him.
"No! Wait."
Meanwhile, Valestar watched as the man holding the spear released his grip and convulsed in pain. Korlaeth charged into the
room, followed by Arcadian.
"Dessi filth! Here your watchdogs now come to protect you!" spat one of the guards.
Arcadian obliged and growled as he moved to the attack. Korlaeth diverged and went for the other one.
Outside in the hallway, Simyn pressed his rapier's tip into the hollow of the man's throat. Calling upon his vast knowledge of the
land, its history, and its occult ties to the Sand Mother, he wove a masterful bluff.
"It it said among the Kivosha that failure to your sworn places you in the vengeful furnaces of deepest Ashtarah. But there is
hope for redemption. What they never divulge--and what I have learned in my travels--is that aiding one's enemy is the same as
showing your fealty toward your friend.
"We seek Ameesha to use her to bring about the downfall of one named Egoliah, is this not something Antah desired in life?"
The bodyguard faltered a moment. "Yes."
"Then cleanse your soul by telling us how to acquire her, so that we may visit destruction upon your lord's enemy and rest his
spirit's turmoil."
---------Moments later, the group gathered in the room and shut the door, allowing the bodyguard the dignity of ending his life by his
own hand and not at the hand of an outsider. Simyn's ruse had worked well--they knew now that Egoliah planned on going deep
into Cloeasia, to a set of ruins that Simyn knew the location of well. They had an advantage, for Simyn was quite familiar with
that region.
Rules,
Rulings
Silent Storm thanked the Dessi who had defended and saved her from death. Then she told them to suit up into whatever armor they had with them,
for the final leg of their journey would take them through the bowels of the building, down another twisting corridor, and finally to the stables. Once
there, they should dress in native attire, don some qarinafahs to conceal themselves, then ride out of the city as fast as they could--no one required
passes while wearing Inner City insignia that they could find near the stables.
---------The group had recovered as best they could on limited resources. They moved down the corridor and around the corner from which Antah had
appeared, following it as it twisted and turned through the building they were in. Silent Storm never faltered or hesitated, hurrying along as if she
were walking through the halls of the monastery itself. She stopped suddenly and crouched, holding her hand low so everyone knew to be quiet.
Stealthily she slinked along, and the rest followed. From somewhere up ahead, many voices were speaking. To the group of adventurers, one of them
was definitely familiar.
The hallway opened into an overly-large landing at the top of a set of double stairs. All around this landing was a high rail, providing cover as
everyone moved onto it. Arcadian could hardly contain himself. He had recognized--as had the others--the voice of Egoliah speaking loudly. He surged
forward to the rail and raised up to peek over it. The young man saw a large box being moved out of the room by a pair of men on a crude rolling
platform. He knew instantly that it was Ameesha held inside that box. Egoliah was near the double doors that the box was exiting through. And all
around them, rising as if dismissed from a meeting was the entire Lordship of Western Vassagonia. Over two dozen men in ornate attire, with
enchanted weapons and armor, were dispersing from the room. And it appeared the only exit--aside from the double doors--was up the stairs on
either side of the landing where they were.
The Vakeros quickly ducked back down and informed everyone else of the grim situation. Silent Storm sighed, paused, then shrugged. She looked at
Arcadian, and Sol Hawk knew from the way he looked back at her that they were planning something telepathically. After a few seconds, she turned
to everyone. As she spoke, her mind sought Valestar. Summon a large air elemental; see if it can cause all the loose objects to fly around like a
cyclone.
"No matter what happens, head for those double doors. Rescue this Anari princess you are after."
Everyone nodded, a bit unsure at her undisclosed plan.
"Remember, no matter what." She looked at Hawkeye and Sol Hawk.
For Sommerlund, and the Kai, she said to their minds. And then suddenly, a map flashed into their minds.
She stood and rushed down one set of stairs, while Arcadian did likewise down the other set. Valestar closed his eyes and concentrated, saying the
words to the spell.
Cries of intrusion rang out from the floor of the large audience hall, but not before both of them had drawn blood. Arcadian called upon his battle
magic again, using its power to enhance his attacks. Silent Storm used her mind to move objects about as weapons, even as her actual weapon
crashed against scimitars time and again. Arcadian held his hand out, and a jet of blue-white energy erupted from it and struck Egoliah squarely in the
chest, knocking him backwards against the closed double doors.
"Kill them!" shouted the shocked assassin as his entourage assembled and they began to depart through the doors.
Sir Victor moved down the stairs in his new armor, feeling welcome in the din of combat he entered. His sword began to cleave a path to their goal.
Sol Hawk went next, using his mind as the grandmaster did, hurling objects around to distract and hinder the enemy. Chairs lifted into the air, tables
slid backwards, saucers were sent hurling. Valestar came next, unleashing fireballs to either side of him at random targets. He noticed a large
chandelier above, and sent two towards it, causing it to crash down on at least three people. Hawkeye provided covering fire from behind the mage,
helping Sir Victor forge onwards towards the double doors. Simyn walked quickly, spinning in circles as he went to add his own style of injury to the
assembled Vassagonians. Each of them was not impervious, though. Scimitars raised and fell and whirled all around them, drawing their own share of
blood.
Korlaeth had chosen a different path, moving down the stairs where Arcadian had gone. His own powers changed his bluesteel weapon into a trident,
which he used to keep enemies at bay long enough to shout at the violent youth. "I was sent to apprehend you! I won't let you escape this way!"
Arcadian drove both swords he held through his foe and pulled them free, turning to face Korlaeth with a face contorted in fury, yet with eyes that
held the stillness of peace in them. "Who said I was trying to escape? My fury once killed a man. Now it will save a man." Korlaeth realized what he
meant. "Go, brother banou."
Korlaeth nodded grimly, then turned to see his way back up the stairs blocked as an OverLord came bounding down them. "Maybe it is in vain you do
this," he mumbled as Arcadian turned back to combat.
At that moment, a vortex of wind ripped through the room, startling everyone. Men were knocked down, tables were overturned, and small objects
were borne skyward to rain back down. As the cyclone died down, a mist rapidly descended from the height of the chamber to cover everything,
making visibility slightly more difficult.
Arcadian looked at the mist, which was condensing to cover the group he had chosen to protect with his life. "You'd better go!" he said to Korlaeth.
The Vakeros wasted no time. Shifting his weapon into a scimitar, he rushed to join his friends and save Ameesha.
Silent Storm watched them all go, as best she could. The fog moved in to cover their escape, and she lost sight. Three men lay crippled near her, but
four more came. So it was, and so it would be.
"For Sommerlund, and the Kai!" she shouted, awaiting the instant of death.
"For Dessi, now we die!" echoed Arcadian from across the room.
The hair on Korlaeth's neck and arms prickled at the young man's battlecry. He rushed through the doors, the last of the hasty procession. Valestar
held the portal shut as Sir Victor braced a nearby bench against the handles.
"We did it!" shouted the mage.
"But which way now?" asked Simyn, favoring a deep gash in his leg.
(You have no
idea how
generous I'm
being here.)
End of the Act.
Everyone levels
up. Also, vote
on what path
you will take.
"I know," said Hawkeye.
"Yes," said Sol Hawk. "No time to explain. Follow us."
The two Kai took the lead, winding through the hallways and making quick work of anyone who got in their way. In a matter of minutes they had
emerged via a back door into the stables. A couple of minutes of searching allowed them all to find their respective mounts, which had been rounded
up and "impounded" here for who-knows-what cause, along with the proper attire and insignia to ride out of the city.
Simyn requested that they bear northwest as they rode, for they could enter the mountains and find which direction Egoliah was taking via a high
perch using his spyglass. Several objected at this, stating that they should go now and not chase a cold trail.
The sage tried to reason with them. "If we go now, and catch up to him in this bedraggled condition, we will be slain. You heard what the bodyguard
told me--he is in the company of a quartet of OverLords and several Kivosha bodyguards. Let us recover first, for the way I know to get to the ruins
will save us at least a day of travel, maybe two. We can meet him on our terms."
***
Korlaeth looked at the sage without a hint of a smile on his face.
"You're sure you know where they're headed?" Korlaeth asked.
Rules, Rulings
Will you give chase after Egoliah now, in various
states of damage and hardship?
The sage nodded and Korlaeth looked back at the inner city they had left behind, thinking of the two that had
stayed behind. It would be some time before this Vakeros smiled again. He turned back to the sage.
"Then I say we wait."
Or will you wait a day and pursue along Simyn's route,
knowing that you can arrive possibly ahead of time?
Sol Hawk has taken Antah's Scimitars following the
battle
***
"Simyn," says Sol Hawk, "That was amazing. You seem to know a great deal about Vassagonian Customs. This
day it has saved all of our lives. You say that you know a faster way to catch Egoliah as we lie low? I must
agree completely your plan. I will, as will we all, I suspect, need some time to recover before we face Egoliah
again. Yet with Ameesha so near now, our only choice for King and Kingdom is to pursue."
Even as Sol Hawk prepares his mount for the journey, he looks expectantly behind, as if expecting to see Silent
Storm any minute emerging into their sight...
***
Yippie! Level 10! Only 10 to go.
The sage donned his new armour and decided to toss his old one. It had once been a beautiful suit of armour,
crafted by one of the best armourers of Quarlen. It had been a personal gift, given to the sage by a man who
had thanked Simyn for helping the craftsman in a matter concerning a noble. Simyn had gained a friend that
day, but made an enemy.
Simyn was satisfied that his vast knowledge of obscure things had been useful. He had been studying the
history of Cloeasia when he had visited the country and he was happy that he remembered so much of what he
had read and heard. His rapier might be sharp, but today his mind was even sharper.
***
The Ruanese was delighted to be reunited with his mount, the brave Bright Lance. He had no idea how their
mounts had escaped the stables in the inn, but it would not help to dwell on that, and he was grateful for
another chance to ride the noble steed.
After listening to the sage's words, the knight agreed with Simyn's plan, which was wiser than throwing their
lives away by running into what could be another ambush. Looking at the sorry state some of the members of
the group were in, they really needed to rest and recover their strengths.
"I have faith in you, Simyn. Lead the way, and show us how we can take advantage of your knowledge of
Cloesia. We are not abandoning the princess, and Egoliah has not seen the last of us. Let's ride!"
***
OOC: Simyn, not sure if you care for these, but I am
sure they carry a very nice damage modifier due to
Superior Workmanship and possibly magic. Kailord
has verified that they are each +3SU and +1MA. At
+4 each, you may be doing better on Damage until
your pied-after Magic Rapier and Poingard +4 comes
along! And oh yeah, Scimitars are finesse weapons, so
you could have your DEX bonus to hit.
"There is one more thing," said Sol to Simyn, "You saved my life back there and I am grateful. I recovered
these from Antah following the fight. I owe you my life, but for now, I offer you these should you so wish to
take them."
Sol Hawk presented Antah's scimitars to Simyn.
"I know that the rapier is your chosen blade, but these are of fine quality and perhaps they will serve a purpose
for you. They are light enough to be wielded with some finesse, and after all, you have earned a memento."
Sol Hawk smiled, mounting up in preparation for their long ride ahead.
***
After doing some calculations, I figured out that
wielding one scimitar and the buckler is a bit better
than wielding the rapier/poignard combination at least
at this level. Due to the magic I will have the same
chance of hitting with the scimitar as with the rapier.
At next level I will get another attack with the rapier
due to The sword is as mighty as the Pen class feature
and should go back to fighting with rapier and
poignard.
"These are indeed very fine blades, but I'm not used to fighting with such blades. I could take one of them, but
I believe you would make better use of the blades Kai Lord. I have noticed your skill with such blades and it is
true beauty to see you fighting with your chosen weapon. But if the blade is as good as it seems I might try it
out." The sage accepted the gift of one scimitar and tried it out. It was unfamiliar but the weapon was of
marvellous craftmanship and had an incredibly keen edge.
***
Valestar's head was spinning from the aftermath of the battle. A trickle of blood ran down his face. The cut was
superficial, but it looked bad. Worse was a wound he'd gotten in his side, though his robes concealed it from
view. He spoke as best he could through the pain.
"Simyn is right. We're in no condition to fight again. We have barely escaped with our lives and as much as I
hate to let our enemy escape us, I have to vote for the safer path."
He groaned in pain as he mounted Varsuvial, and then slumped forward as the world turned black.
***
OOC: Sol Hawk does not have a need for the second
"Antah's Scimitar, +1MA, +3SU, finesse" so this is up
for grabs if anyone wants it. Korlaeth, maybe?
Another trophy?
"I am pleased that you will find it to be of use," smiles Sol Hawk, "If for but a while. "I must admit, I am as yet
still not yet myself - the Overlord Antah nearly had me there, and if anyone could spare some Laumspur, I
would gladly find a use for it."
***
Ok, I have 5 potions of laumspur to share. Sol showed
interest, HE evidently needs some. Who else?
Simyn is speaking here-------------------------------------------Æ
OOC: Sol Hawk drinks 2 Laumspur Potions and
recovers 26 EP. A night's rest will allow for healing of
the remainder!
Additional note: If we rest for 8 hours at some point, I
will be able to use my healing skill in order to restore
2xLevel to each character. So Sir Victor would get 22
back, Simyn would get 20 back, etc...
If Hawkeye did the same, we'd do even better (and I
could recover 22 EP also if he did).
The knight rummaged in his saddle bags, where he had sorted and stashed the contents of his backpack. He
pulled out the five potions of Laumspur he had taken from the treasure hoarde, and offered them to his
wounded companions, first and foremost the two Kai lords who had suffered the brunt of their enemies'
attacks.
"Drink this precious liquid, all of you, we need to regain all of our strength if we hope to liberate the princess
from the clutches of her ravishers."
***
"I don't need it presently. I only got some scratches during that fight."
***
Sol Hawk gratefully partook of Sir Victor's cool Laumspur. He could feel the massive damage to his chest heal
itself until he had nothing else but the battered bruises and scars of the fight. Sol Hawk knew that if they could
find shelter for the night, he would be able to return the favour to his friends by virtue of his healing skills.
"Very well," said Sol Hawk, "It is time for us to ride. Good Sage, please lead the way. Our journey may soon be
at an end."
***
Donning the black garb of the Sharnazim they had found, and covering themselves in qarinafahs, the group rode nervously out of the stables. No one tried to question
them, but the warhorse and donkey brought strange looks as they rode past.
It wasn't until they got to the new outer wall of the city that they were stopped. The guards there had been given strict orders that no one below the rank of Lord was to
leave the city for any reason. Simyn kept his head bowed, seemingly out of respect, and well-hidden beneath the hood of the qarinafah.
"Perhaps you are not familiar with OverLord Antah," he said, gesturing toward Sir Victor, who tensed, not sure what was being said. He merely head the word "Antah".
Was Simyn telling them he had slain the OverLord?
Simyn patted his newly acquired scimitar. "I am his personal weaponbearer."
The guard folded his arms. He wasn't buying this. "Let him tell us himself."
Korlaeth nudged his horse forward. "He does not deign it necessary to speak to someone as lowly as you, who holds no lands or title other than that of a mere soldier.
Shall the weaponbearer hand my lord his weapons, so that you see--before entering Ashtarah for your insolence--who this man is?"
This rattled the man. He faltered, stammered a bit, then motioned at Valestar. "Very well, but why does this one ride a donkey?"
Simyn did not look back nor at the guard. "Eccentric Kivosh."
Korlaeth inched closer to Simyn and held out his hand. "Give me the blades."
The guards took the hint. "That won't be necessary, OverLord Antah. Forgive my delay of your departure," he said, bowing as he gestured to open the gate.
---------After riding a ways northward, following the fresh tracks of a large party and wagon that came this way (no doubt Egoliah), Simyn led them northwest into the foothills of
the mountains near Teph. Stopping near a small cave, the group proceeded to rest, recounting the long night of attempted assassinations, setting the city ablaze (indeed
some parts still smouldered, as could be seen from this distance), being almost tortured to death, and the loss of the Kai grandmaster and Arcadian. Surely they could not
have lived?
Simyn left the group, escorted by Sir Victor to higher elevation, where he observed Egoliah's group in the far distant horizon. "Easily a dozen men," he said. "They're
heading northeast, too. Strange. The ruins lie north-northwest of here. They're meeting someone, perhaps." Satisfied that they were in no danger of losing him, he
headed back down to the rest of the group, informing them they may have a full two-day advantage.
In the distance to the north, they could see clouds sweeping across the land, only to be annihilated by the hot desert updrafts. How nice it would be to be washed in the
open rain again....
"Abandoned ruins are where we're headed, you say?" chimed in Valestar. Simyn nodded. The mage grumbled and gripped his staff tightly. "Where there's ruins, there's
Ceners...more than likely."

Kailord - Computer Science House

Transcription

Similar documents

Apartment for sale Sotogrande Marina, Costa del Sol – Ref.1623

For sale is a 2010 River Hawk B-52, with a nice galvanized trailer

Solfege and Curwen Chart3

Black Belt Comics Issue 1 copy.indd

New Hope Hawaii Kai

MomilaniKai!! - Labyrinth Network Northwest

Stylish Décor Tailor-Made to Suit All Taste

CP7670B -Unit 1A - Stirlin Developments

F6A + POWERHAWK