The Approaching Storm

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Jul 9, 2022 3:38 am

Jul 9, 2022 3:38 am

The Approaching Storm

The rain comes down like an iron sheet, hard enough to sting the eyes. Still it isn't enough to wipe the stink from Thistle Hold. While not even a city, the town holds 6,000 permanent residents, but nearly 10,000 dwell there at any given time. The press of so many is cloying, and the peltingly harsh rain cuts that. Some.

In the shadow of the Beacon lies a large, circular plaza surrounded by taverns and dives, including the Salons of Symbaroum (the notorious and varied pleasure house). If one were to name one single place as the most dangerous in town, it would have to be the block neighboring the Toad's Square. More deaths occur there than in the rest of Thistle Hold combined, and it is in close vicinity to the Beacon's foundation that most of the town's shady affairs take place - affairs that often go overboard since active town guards aren't seen in the district.

[ +- ] The Beacon

Of course, it is in Toad's Square that you find yourselves tonight. You're headed for The Infested Bole, a seedy tavern with a reputation for dour business. A place of drinking oneself to oblivion, rather than making friends. Unfortunately, the dogged pursuit of oblivion is not what draws you here, but instead, rumor of a new exploration contract, just today. A contract would come with an Explorer's License, a somewhat expensive writ to allow one to enter the forest of Davokar for a specific and limited purpose -- the Queen guards the forest's secrets carefully. Anyone who wishes to travel the woods without risking hefty fines or the loss of fingers/hands there is no alternative but to come up with the sum dictated by the authorities.

When you enter The Infested Bole, few eyes turn to the door. A damp and smoky atmosphere obscures much, and an Ambrian barkeep leans on a keg, trying to coax a few murky drops from the dregs into a stained, wooden tankard. You're each looking for a woman named Revora.

Describe yourselves as you enter the tavern, and include two things: 1) the name of the person who gave you a hint of this contract, and 2) what hope you have for the expedition.

Jul 9, 2022 4:49 am

Jul 9, 2022 4:49 am

The Approaching Storm

Vargos sighs as he pushes open the creaking door and finds the interior of the tavern worse than the exterior. These city folk had no pride. And whatever that foul drink was that they had the nerve to call ale... It wasn't looking like the sort of place that Devil would frequent. But he had the blight and wealth of one who frequented the Forest, so here they were.

Peering inside and seeing that most of the danger was obvious, Vargos holds the door open for his ward. She could handle a lot, but he worried about her perspective... and vision through that mask. Shutting the door behind them, he stretches up to his full height. Though not a massively tall man, he was broad enough to dwarf others. His worn clothes hung with the weight of armor hidden beneath, and an axe and shield adorned him to present the image of a true warrior. A barbarian.

He instinctively tugs at his sleeves to hide the runes tattooed upon his flesh. Though they are a sign of pride and honor in his tribe, they were often misconstrued as blight scars or signs of evil... and often led to conflict. That was precisely what he was trying to avoid here. He scratches at his scraggly beard before heading to the bar. Scarred hands against a scarred face, no surprise for a man of battle approaching his age.

Without needing to speak, he wills Aolita to find a seat, preferably one without broken glass or other guests. They had traveled long enough together to be able to do this. After all, they had left their village together. And all to find that Devil. Who Aolita had spoken with to get this lead (and when she had done so) was a mystery to Vargos, but that woman was full of mysteries. All he knew was that this might be another chance to find the man that had killed her sister. But there was a reason they had travelled so long; bad luck. And it wasn't likely to end here.

Jul 9, 2022 1:51 pm

Jul 9, 2022 1:51 pm

The Approaching Storm

Gristle huddled in the muddy gutter trying in vane to stay beneath the crumbling eaves of the Infested Bole while Kverula wallowed contentedly. "Sure," she said, "enjoy the source of my misery." Gristle despised the rain, it wiped away all of the good smells she had built up and in a place like this she rarely found respite inside the buildings and so she waited outside for the perfect opportunity. It arrived a few moments later, a towering barbarian escorting a female through the muddy streets and making a bee line for the Bole. Gristle patted Kverula’s flank "Stay here, and don’t get yourself into any trouble." It would be hard enough for Gristle to slip her short bony body through the crowded tavern and impossible to do so with 17 stone of mud caked hog flesh. Gristle pulled the simple stitched leather cap down low though her elongated ears were keenly focused. She crouched low and pressed her lithe bony frame against the outside edge of the three wooden stairs leading to the front door, trying to keep as still as an awaiting spider. The thought of spiders set her stomach to grumbling and she lost a moment's focus. It nearly cost her as already the barbarians were slipping through the doorway. She sprung to action vaulting soundlessly onto the wooden platform and slinking her way through the closing doorway in the shadow of the pair immediately slipping to the right when inside the tavern pressing her back to the wall.

The smoke was playing hell with her sensitive nose and Gristle could feel the steady thudding of her heart in her chest. She spied the object she needed and spent a tense few moments crossing through the most heavily shadowed areas of the tavern seeking it. At last she wrapped her long slender fingers around the smooth wooden shaft of the broom. She felt more comfortable with the item in hand. It was a pale substitute for the spear she had left wrapped in oilcloth outside, but if things got messy she could use it in a pinch. Casually she began passing it over the floorboards, keeping her eyes down low and her head bowed, putting a stoop in her back and steadily working her way around the periphery of the room. All the while her ears were flicking this way and that hoping to pick up the whisper of the name Revora.

This was always the hardest part. Even the stinking barbarians had no trouble waltzing right into a place like this and asking after a person. Gristle would have to be more cunning if she was going to get onto this contract. She was eternally grateful to Tulga for passing the info along to her. Tulga had been working the laundry for weeks keeping an ear out for something interesting. She couldn’t help but share this juicy bit of overheard gossip with Gristle. She wasn’t so eager that she didn’t haggle a fee of 2 shillings and a bowl of Gristle’s recently prepared spider stew for the information. The thought of spider stew set her stomach rumbling again. Those 2 shillings had been hard come by and Gristle felt the paltry few ortegs left in her coin pouch, barely enough to clink together in a satisfying way. Gristle was going to need to find a way to make more coin, and it was going to be this contract. Gristle refused to go back to laundering.

Thielindra Inactive for 3 months

Jul 9, 2022 5:48 pm

Jul 9, 2022 5:48 pm

The Approaching Storm

Orlan blinks in the doorway of the Infested Bole, his eyes slowing adjusting to the light gleaming off the wafts of smoke clouding the air. It stinks worse in here than out by the alley he thinks, his mouth twisting in a silent deprecating laugh. You'd think Amelia would have better sense than to send me to a place like this. Ah well, at least it's dry.

We wipes a hand across his face to clear the rain and walks over to the bar, his stride sure and confident. He glances around the room, noting the variety of people and weapons scattered about. It could be worse. Honestly, the barracks were almost as bad on a rough day. Just need to make a name for myself, and I'll never have to set foot in a rathole like this again.

His chainmail clinks as he leans across the bar, watching the barkeep struggle with the barrel. "I can give you a hand with that, if you like," he states matter of fact to his fellow Ambrian.

Jul 10, 2022 3:43 am

Jul 10, 2022 3:43 am

The Approaching Storm

Barbarian witches are not unknown in Thistle Hold, but the sight of one, and of her glowering escort, is still reason for the local populace -- and the watchmen, many of them veterans of the Great War with the Dark Lords in the south -- to sit up and take notice. The witches have a history in the place... after all, Mayor Nightpitch worked with Yagaba to provide the Queen with the salve that saved her mother. So while they aren't looked down upon in quite the same derisive way the non-human laborers from Blackmoor and beyond are, the clanfolk are often viewed with considerable suspicion and mistrust by the Ambrians.

Aolita has never been to Thistle Hold before, and she loathes the place. It's cramped streets -- once broad to protect against the spread of elven fire, but now filled in with ramshackle buildings and sheds and additions -- have spattered the woman's beautifully embroidered robes with shit and blood. Earth and rot and damp the witch knows well, but these invader strains bring a curl to her hidden lips. She peers through her mask, a bone-white covering with a red hand-print on the face and a pair of twisting antlers, looking up at the Beacon before she follows Vargos into the Bole. Several times her people have tried to burn the thing down, have tried to unmake this fortress at the edge of the Davokar. Her frown was deeper still when they passed by the stumps beyond the north gate, signs of just what the Ambrians will do to the mystical wood if given the chance.

Inside the bar, the witch has presence despite her diminutive size. Her mask, her staff and the sweep of her robes, the cock of her head -- it draws the eye. She nods when her companion silently indicates that she find a table while he looks for this Revora, and she finds one in the corner and sits in a way that lets her survey the whole room.

It was Pellio the watchman that told them of this expedition. Pellio as well that said he had information about the men Aolita has sworn to find. And Pellio who demanded more thalers for that information than the little witch has ever seen let along had in her hands. This foray into the woods is their best chance at finding riches enough to pay the man... and so the pair have decided to meet with Revora.

OOC:

Pellio is detailed on p48 of the core book. He has information, he says, on the man who killed Aolita's sister, but he wants hefty payment for it. So he's pointed the two barbarians towards the upcoming expedition to earn that coin.

Jul 11, 2022 2:50 am

Jul 11, 2022 2:50 am

The Approaching Storm

The barkeep takes Orlan's help, and then places the keg back on its stand. With his eyes, you see him look to a closed door to the back room, barely visible in the smoky dinge. "In there, if you're looking for Revora," he says, his voice raspy as he drains the tankard of dregs. "You want ale?"

Thielindra Inactive for 3 months

Jul 11, 2022 4:42 am

Jul 11, 2022 4:42 am

The Approaching Storm

Orlan nods and hands him a coin as he takes the mug. Thanks. He smiles, the expression taking years off his face, and heads to the back room.

Jul 11, 2022 1:00 pm

Jul 11, 2022 1:00 pm

The Approaching Storm

Vargos, waiting for his own ale (and not really knowing the etiquette for ordering it), is pleased to overhear the location of Revora. That would save him some talking. Some. "ale... ALE!" He speaks louder than intended, but perhaps that was what one needed to get service in this dingy hole.

With two mug of what literally be ogre piss, he returns to the table. To Aolita. He takes a spot next to her where he can also observe; he, however, is looking for any danger. "We'll find Revora in the back room. Are you sure you trust this Pellio?"

Jul 12, 2022 3:59 pm

Jul 12, 2022 3:59 pm

The Approaching Storm

Revora

When Orlan enters the room, he sees a sturdy woman on perhaps thirty years, sitting in the far chair. A rough cut rectangular table made of lengthwise beams held together from underneath is surrounded by a half dozen chairs. The room isn't overly large, and getting past occupied chairs may require squeezing against the wooden walls.

The woman looks up, an eyebrow raising as she takes in Orlan's fancy armor.

"Who sent you?"

Thielindra Inactive for 3 months

Jul 12, 2022 4:34 pm

Jul 12, 2022 4:34 pm

The Approaching Storm

Orlan dips his chin, giving a gesture somewhere halfway between a bow and a nod. "You are Revora I presume? My name is Orlan. I was sent by the Lady Amelia. She suggested you may have work for me."

Jul 12, 2022 6:07 pm

Jul 12, 2022 6:07 pm

The Approaching Storm

There's a tap-tap-tap on the outer wall of the inn, and then again at the door. It doesn't really sound much different from the first, but to someone it does, because there's an audible, "Ah," and then the door's handle turns and a slightly hunched hooded figure appears. She turns to speak to someone behind her when she's halfway through the door. "No. You stay out here. Keep watch. Don't fight with the pig. He seems nice."

Satisfied with whatever response she got back from that, she shuffles into the tavern, tapping a long, narrow, slightly wispy stick on the ground in front of her. Her head stays low as she pulls off her hood with her free hand, revealing an elderly woman with silvering hair. Her eyes, though open, are dead white. She pauses, listening for just a moment, and then straightens up - as much as she can - and walks to the bartender, her stick stopping her before she crashes into the bar that's between the two of them. "Good evening. - It is evening, no? - I am looking for Revora. I was told she would be here."

She made no mention of who told her. It wasn't important to her, although it might be of some limited local interest. For the past three months, she'd been staying with a couple at the edge of town - Burley and Gail - waiting out an illness. They knew she'd travel again - she always did, and had alerted her of the local gossip that had led her here. She did not tell them, but she was sure that she would not be back this time. The headaches hadn't gotten better, though she'd hidden them, and there was a tremor in her chest now that was not there before. Her hands though, were steady, and her mind sharp. She could do one more journey.

Jul 12, 2022 6:40 pm

Jul 12, 2022 6:40 pm

The Approaching Storm

The barkeep says to Vaila, "Back room," and then there is a baited pause. A few coins get placed on tables as wagers are made. Will she make it on her own?

Jul 12, 2022 8:16 pm

Jul 12, 2022 8:16 pm

The Approaching Storm

Although it's surely impossible, she looks directly at one of the gamblers as if to remind him of his manners. She turns slowly toward the back of the tavern, and then past it. When she hears a snicker, she pauses, turns back a bit in the other direction, and walks. Her stick taps on the floor as she goes. When she reaches the wall, she taps along it, just as she did outside, until she finds the door.

Then she pauses. She fishes a thin line out of her pocket and ties it to one end of her stick. Then she flips it, bends it against the floor, and ties the other end. Turning back to the general direction of those seated, she reaches behind, under her cloak, and slowly draws an arrow from underneath.

She nocks it and pulls it back. Then she releases it and turns away, not bothering to check where it lands. It's got to be a coincidence that the arrow pins the snickerer's sleeve to the table as she enters the room, yes?

It closes softly behind her.

Jul 13, 2022 11:54 am

Jul 13, 2022 11:54 am

The Approaching Storm

Gristle's ear twitches, another door, thrice damn the inventor of all doors. Slowly, casually, she plies the broom moving along the edges of the room and toward the door to the back. She pauses every few steps keeping her awareness strung tighter than the blind rangers bow for any hint of trouble. Thankfully the old woman had drawn most of the eyes in the room. Gristle waits after the blind one goes through the door, waits for the crowd to resume their revelry and forget about the back door before pushing through it herself. Inside the room she leans the broom against the wall and moves swiftly to one of the open chairs, taking a seat as if she belongs there. No need to continue playing at stealth, she was going to need to be seen here and show her value.

Jul 13, 2022 4:17 pm

Jul 13, 2022 4:17 pm

The Approaching Storm

After you've all entered...

Revora

She grumps a little at the assembled adventurers. "Cose the door and listen close. An urgent situation has come up. We need a team to head into the Dark Forest and rescue a group that has run into trouble. This will be fast travel, a guide provided, it will pay well, and it's licensed by the Queen. I'll tell you nothing more until you each swear to secrecy. If word gets out that you blabbed about any of this, you'll be blackballed from Thistle Hold at the very least and likely executed for treason."

She leans back and takes each of your measure. "Agree and hear more, or leave, now's the time to decide."

Jul 14, 2022 6:51 am

Jul 14, 2022 6:51 am

The Approaching Storm

OOC:

Apologies, I somehow missed Vargos's post!

"I am not," Aolita says to Vargos when he asks if she's sure they can trust Pellio. "He is an Ambrian and a soldier who faced the Dark Lords in the south. They are broken men, all of them, just shadows of themselves. But his is the only lead we have."

When others follow Orlan into the back room, the witch gestures for them to follow suit. Soon enough they are gathered with the others, and listening to Revora. When the woman poses her question, Aolita hesitates to see what the others will do.

Jul 14, 2022 12:42 pm

Jul 14, 2022 12:42 pm

The Approaching Storm

Gristle makes a motion as if sewing her lips shut while she nods emphatically. Best not to break the stillness of the silence with her high whiny crackling voice, they might actually notice she'd taken a seat at the table and send her back to the streets.

Who would I even tell she thinks I mean, besides Tulga, she would want to know what came of the info she shared. And of course Kverula, but did sharing a secret with a sow even count. There was also Vorg, the cute butcher's assistant. I mean, how impressed will he be that I'm going on an honest adventure and a secret one at that. Maybe then he'll want to talk about something other than how much bacon Kverula could supply. Besides who cares if Gristle was blackballed from Thistle Hold, most of the tall-folk can't tell the difference between one goblin and another Gristle had proved that many times taking Tulga's work for a day here and there when she needed the coin and Tulga wanted the break. Besides besides it won't be long before I retreat into the Davokar and assumed my true form, I just know the soul of a troll lurks inside me. But the weird woman had said blackballed at the least and executed at worst. Hmmm, maybe best to keep it quiet for now, there will be time to brag when we return victorious. If it's secret it must mean it's important, like rescuing the Queen herself. Boy won't Vorg be impressed with me then!

Jul 14, 2022 2:09 pm

Jul 14, 2022 2:09 pm

The Approaching Storm

Vargos nods at the demand. It made sense. These Ambrians loved secrets and lies. "You have our word," he say for both himself and Aolita. He did this sometimes, taking vows for the both of them.

Thielindra Inactive for 3 months

Jul 14, 2022 2:13 pm

Jul 14, 2022 2:13 pm

The Approaching Storm

Glancing around the table, Orlan scratches the scruff of unshaven hair on chin. A mismatched group, to be sure, but they seem capable of holding their own. He nods to Revora as Vargos speaks. And mine as well, he states.

Jul 15, 2022 12:17 pm

Jul 15, 2022 12:17 pm

The Approaching Storm

Aolita nods in near unison with Vargos, somehow standing taller in the room than her bare five feet in height. The mask and horns help, of course, but the witch has a presence that outstrips her stature even when she is not so adorned.

Jul 15, 2022 4:14 pm

Jul 15, 2022 4:14 pm

The Approaching Storm

OOC:

I'll assume Valia also swears.

Revora

She nods, meeting each of your gazes as you swear. "Good. Good. Thank you."

She sips from her drink, a large tankard of some foul looking bitter ale that smells poorly made and stored with even less care. "This must be kept secret or other factions will move. The Queen's position is precarious is some matters, and if her enemies sense an opportunity, they'll press. She would respond, and it is no exaggeration that war could break out." She looks at Aolita and Vargos in particular, and they need no reminder that the last war cost thousands of barbarian lives, and countless more lives wasted in slave labour building the Ambrian city of Yndaros.

She pulls out several sheet of parchment as she talks, sorting through them. "This noble, let's call him Wagner, went into forest in search of an old ruin, as many do. He was properly authorized," she holds up a parchment, showing a blank Explorer's License. "After five days, his guide returned, babbling about dangers in the ruin. Wagner had been taken by things inside, by 'arms of darkness and hate' and that the guide has barely survived the slaughter of the goblins among them. Elves, as far as we can tell, and not the little ones you see from the ones sometimes, not elflings, but proper elves. Ancient and terrible."

"An Explorer's License, for each of you, for a month. If you bring Wagner back, alive, these will be extended to a year. A thaler each in advance to outfit ten more, each, on your return with Wagner, or what's left of him if you're too late." Eleven thaler, that's a proper knight's wage for five days, a sellsword's wage for months. You could live without any other income for months, if you lived modestly.

"We put out the call this morning, and we've wasted enough time as it is. You'd leave tonight."

Jul 16, 2022 4:15 am

Jul 16, 2022 4:15 am

The Approaching Storm

The large barbarian leans forward, though it is hard to tell if it is the coin or the possibility of finding this noble that intrigues him so. Of course the noble would go by another name, he wouldn't want the rescue party blabbing his true identity all over the Hold. A bad look, you see. Turning towards Aolita, he gives her a glance and a quirk of an eyebrow that asks 'Think this could be our Devil?'

"We'll find your nobleman, and drag him back one way or another. We'll need the name and whereabouts of the guide. Addled or not, he'll have answers for us." He looks to the other volunteers. Dumb saps, each one. Misguided fools. "And I'd have words with you before we set out. Set some things clear. And get names." That names was last on his list spoke volumes.

Jul 17, 2022 12:32 pm

Jul 17, 2022 12:32 pm

The Approaching Storm

Perhaps. No way yet to know.

Aolita's voice inside Vargos's head is, as always, lilting and a little lyrical. It carries with it more than just her words... and sounds accented somehow -- even in their home tongue.

Would be wondrous turn of fate if it is so, and that he and his lie dead and dismembered already.

What the little witch hears from Revora concerns her, though, and she comes forward, her stout staff thumping on the wooden floor as she raises a hand to her guardian, telling him to stay his wagging tongue. There have secrets of their own that need to be kept.

"Ambrian Lady. We are clansfolk. We need no permission from Korinthia to walk the Davokar. For generations my people have lived in harmony with that great and dark wood. And you are a fool if you think just anyone can plumb its depths and return with this man, or his remains. Ten of your thaler is an insult! Risking an encounter with the Iron Pact alone means peril well beyond anything inside your walls here. This should be one hundred thaler rather than ten!"

The witch then cocks her head, canting her masked face almost forty five degrees before she looks at her fellows and goes on.

"But we will accept twenty. And the writ. For this we will find this man, and be discreet."

Thielindra Inactive for 3 months

Jul 18, 2022 3:38 am

Jul 18, 2022 3:38 am

The Approaching Storm

Orlan raises his eyebrows at the diminutive woman’s outburst. He’s used to automatically taking charge, especially amongst his fellow soldiers, but there seems to be quite a few headstrong people at this table. If she wants to argue for a better wage, he certainly won’t put up a fight. He shrugs, leans back on his elbows, and watches the argument unfold.

Jul 18, 2022 11:54 am

Jul 18, 2022 11:54 am

The Approaching Storm

Oh Gristle, you nearly spoiled that meal She had very nearly acquiesced but then the witch woman turned it into a negotiation. Gristle herself would never dare to negotiate with one of the tall-folk, too easily replaced, but if the witch woman wanted to she certainly wasn't going to get in the way. Unless she upset the apple cart. Gristle squinted hard willing the negotiation to go well.

Revora

Jul 18, 2022 11:57 am

Jul 18, 2022 11:57 am

The Approaching Storm

Revora

"The reward isn't the coin, but the access, and that what you might find and bring back. Nevertheless, if you don't want the Explorers License renewed after your return, I could increase your wage by five thaler instead."

Jul 18, 2022 1:12 pm

Jul 18, 2022 1:12 pm

The Approaching Storm

The guardian remains silent as his ward negotiates. He never had a mind for this task, nor any other that required clever words and discretion. His eyes move around before settling on the goblin. Curious little creature. He observes it for a while, silently.

Jul 19, 2022 2:35 am

Jul 19, 2022 2:35 am

The Approaching Storm

OOC:

Will likely have Aolita agree here -- not trying to bog us down -- but want to give Vaila a chance to get a word in edgewise as well.

Jul 19, 2022 1:29 pm

Jul 19, 2022 1:29 pm

The Approaching Storm

The witch ponders the offer for a moment, then she gestures to her fellows. "I cannot not speak for everyone. But I will accept five more of your southron coins and the license to wander my own woods."

OOC:

On the nose!

Last edited July 19, 2022 1:33 pm

Rolls

Persuasive (10) - (1d20)

(10) = 10

Jul 19, 2022 3:54 pm

Jul 19, 2022 3:54 pm

The Approaching Storm

Revora

"Fine. If you're successful, 5 extra thaler each." She leans over to offer her arm to seal the deal with a forearm shake.

Jul 19, 2022 3:57 pm

Jul 19, 2022 3:57 pm

The Approaching Storm

Vargos grunts.

Thielindra Inactive for 3 months

Jul 19, 2022 4:03 pm

Jul 19, 2022 4:03 pm

The Approaching Storm

Works for me, Orlan says with a grin.

Jul 19, 2022 10:24 pm

Jul 19, 2022 10:24 pm

The Approaching Storm

OOC:

My apologies. I'd typed out a reply but forgot to send. And it's moot now, so!

"The Pact is more clay than Iron anyhow. It's the rest of what's in the forest that you want to be wary of."

Vaila taps her lips with a finger. "It's been more than a short while since I've been in that direction, so I'll go. I'd rather go alone, but this group seems noisy enough to distract almost anything, so it could be a boon." There might have been the crack of a smile there.

Jul 20, 2022 2:54 am

Jul 20, 2022 2:54 am

The Approaching Storm

"A good deal for all of us." Gristle says hopping down from the chair. She's not sure if she should approach the woman to engage in the customary shaking, but figures it's time for bold moves so she steps over and offers her hand. "Most tall-folk took to calling me Gristle and the name's stuck, as good as any other, and better than a fair number of them I've been called in my days."

Jul 20, 2022 7:22 am

Jul 20, 2022 7:22 am

The Approaching Storm

Forearms are grasped; a deal is struck. Aolita steps back when the others also agree, bowing her head slightly in deference.

Jul 21, 2022 10:20 pm

Jul 21, 2022 10:20 pm

The Approaching Storm

OOC:

Are we ready to jump ahead into the mess?

Jul 21, 2022 10:26 pm

Jul 21, 2022 10:26 pm

The Approaching Storm

OOC:

Just to clarify, there's still only one thaler up front?

Thielindra Inactive for 3 months

Jul 22, 2022 2:33 am

Jul 22, 2022 2:33 am

The Approaching Storm

Qralloq says:

OOC:

Are we ready to jump ahead into the mess?

Orlan is good to go.

Jul 22, 2022 2:34 am

Jul 22, 2022 2:34 am

The Approaching Storm

OOC:

That's correct, 1 thaler up front. Some equipment listings have been listed in the other thread for those who need such.

Jul 22, 2022 4:32 am

Jul 22, 2022 4:32 am

The Approaching Storm

OOC:

Aye, ready.

Jul 22, 2022 4:35 am

Jul 22, 2022 4:35 am

The Approaching Storm

OOC:

Onwards!!!

Jul 22, 2022 2:32 pm

Jul 22, 2022 2:32 pm

The Approaching Storm

OOC:

ready as I'll ever be

Jul 22, 2022 4:51 pm

Jul 22, 2022 4:51 pm

The Approaching Storm

cowleyc says:

OOC:

Onwards!!!

OOC:

https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/742996989431775295/1000082447507144806/Onward.gif

Last edited July 22, 2022 4:51 pm

Jul 23, 2022 1:53 pm

Jul 23, 2022 1:53 pm

The Approaching Storm

Sunset

As you approach the main gate fortuitously arriving together, the rain has let up but there's is still a chill moistness to the air that promises a miserable journey tonight.

When you get to the gate, you first hear a commotion. When enter the space beside the gate, through the haze of the light rain and dim light, there seems to be more people than you'd expect. You see five cloaked figures (gray-black cloaks that appear to be festooned with feathers), and three more besides. Two of the cloakwearers are standing above two more figures, probably guards who are lying on the ground. Three other cloak wearers have surrounded a lithe figure of small stature.

Violence appears imminent. What do you do?

Jul 23, 2022 2:46 pm

Jul 23, 2022 2:46 pm

The Approaching Storm

The barbarian sneers. More violence, a neverending ran of overcrowding and racism. Why these Ambrians insisted on living like rats within these walls, he'll never know. The man grunts at the sight, then turns to Aolita without breaking his stride. She was wont to ignore or protect on a whim, and though he couldn't understand her reasoning, he would need to be ready at a moments notice. Regardless of her decision, he slips in his shield in the event the violence spreads

Thielindra Inactive for 3 months

Jul 23, 2022 5:49 pm

Jul 23, 2022 5:49 pm

The Approaching Storm

Orlan steps forward from his companions, stopping in front of the three cloak wearers. He looks at the figure on the ground, then back at the cloak wearers, his chin up and his back stiff as a rod. "Is there a problem here, gentlemen?, he rumbles, his fingers lightly holding the hilt of his greatsword .

Jul 23, 2022 8:02 pm

Jul 23, 2022 8:02 pm

The Approaching Storm

OOC:

Are the feathered cloakwearers barbarians? Does the lithe figure look human, or human-sized?

Jul 24, 2022 6:08 am

Jul 24, 2022 6:08 am

The Approaching Storm

OOC:

Still have that question, but I thought of a cooler way to get it answered. ;)

There are times when Aolita leaps in with both feet, and others when the witch takes a more measured approach, sniffing for telling scents, casting rotten flower petals into the wind, consuming herbs and dried insects that clear and sharpen her mind. And then there are times when she uses the sight. When she tries to look through, look past, look inside and see the truth of things...

It is this she does now, muttering quiet words of power to herself as her body tremors briefly and her eyes flutter.

OOC:

Using Witchsight: As a Free Action, the PC can make a roll against [Vigilant←Discreet] in an attempt to see the dominant Shadow of a creature, location or object. Each such attempt forces the character to suffer 1 temporary Corruption. Ideally using this to look at the shadows of everyone present... but if she has to pick one, the lean figure at the center of all this.

Edit: failure unless there's a big modifier on the Discreet. Thinking it's too busy a scene for here, too many people, too much going on.

Last edited July 24, 2022 4:49 pm

Rolls

Witchsight - Vigilant (12) - (1d20)

(16) = 16

Jul 24, 2022 3:14 pm

Jul 24, 2022 3:14 pm

The Approaching Storm

Gristle lingers on the fringes of the troupe as they make their way to the gate keeping company with Kverula who roots around in the mud for tasty worms emerging from the rain sodden soil only to be slurped up by the sow. Gristle keeps her hood up, her long nose the only feature protruding from its shadowed depths. She uses her spear like a walking stick, the leaf shaped blade obscured by a number of feathers and baubles she took time to attach before coming to town in an effort to obscure its true nature. She is not the first among them to notice the commotion at the gate, but quickly looks for a shadowed spot near the gate to slip into. Gristle is not spoiling for a fight, not this close to civilization, but if she must she'd prefer to strike unseen.

Rolls

Discreet for slipping into the shadows (13) - (1d20)

(5) = 5

Jul 24, 2022 5:21 pm

Jul 24, 2022 5:21 pm

The Approaching Storm

[ +- ] OOC - Witchsight and Discrete Roll

They are definitely human sized, if small humans. Clearly capable, given that they have subdued two people already near the gate.

When Orlan speaks, one of the three that have surrounded the even smaller person draws a blade in a motion that will lead to them throwing it at Orlan's face.

Gristle slips into the shadows successfullly.

Initiative time.

Everybody roll Vigilant at -5. So roll 1d20 and compare to your Vigilant stat -5. If you roll 5 under Vigilant or lower you can act before the cloaked figure.

Thielindra Inactive for 3 months

Jul 24, 2022 6:06 pm

Jul 24, 2022 6:06 pm

The Approaching Storm

Orlan blinks at the the sudden movement and tries to brace against an incoming attack.

Rolls

Vigilant 9 (-5) - (1d20)

(15) = 15

Jul 24, 2022 7:59 pm

Jul 24, 2022 7:59 pm

The Approaching Storm

Damn, the rich one will need my help even before my witch. Damned Ambrians and their pride. Vargos, standing near Aolita, prepares to move towards the other warrior. However, he knows he will not reach the man in time to intercept the blow.

Rolls

Vigilant 5 (10) - (1d20)

(6) = 6

Jul 25, 2022 3:54 am

Jul 25, 2022 3:54 am

The Approaching Storm

Aolita squints behind her mask, but as the last of her muttered words leave her lips, she knows that the sight will elude her for the moment. They are surrounded by things man has made and perverted, and there are just too many people present in a settlement like Thistle Hold for her to see the true shadows of those before her. Worse still, she is caught off-guard when things turn violent...

Last edited July 25, 2022 3:55 am

Rolls

Vigilant (12-5=7) - (1d20)

(20) = 20

Jul 25, 2022 2:18 pm

Jul 25, 2022 2:18 pm

The Approaching Storm

Vaila moves quickly to draw her bow but... there's so much activity, so suddenly. She's not used to being in a group and even the travel has been a pain for her, as accustomed as she is to the quiet solitude of her other travels. All that weight on her mind, and something, somewhere... snaps. She falls to her knees and rocks back and forth, bracing her head in her hands.

Falconloft sent a note to Qralloq

Last edited July 25, 2022 2:25 pm

Rolls

Vigilant (15-5=10) - (d20)

(20) = 20

Jul 25, 2022 8:36 pm

Jul 25, 2022 8:36 pm

The Approaching Storm

Definitely trouble Gristle thinks as she moves into the shadows of a nearby building. They moved so quickly, things had already come to a head before she had a chance to know what was really happening.

Last edited July 25, 2022 8:38 pm

Rolls

Vigilant (10-5 = 5) - (D20) - (1d20)

(7) = 7

Jul 26, 2022 3:14 pm

Jul 26, 2022 3:14 pm

The Approaching Storm

[ +- ] Initiative Results

Two of the three grab the smaller figure and start dragging him to the gate. He struggles and squeaks, a goblin voice, but the cloaked men are too strong for him.

The third releases his blade at Orlan.

Orlan, roll your Defense against +0 (their Accurate modifier) and if you roll over your Defense +0, take 3 damage.

All of you can act, in whatever order you post, but I'll process Aolita last for GM's prerogative on that 20.

Vaila appears to be down, suffering from cramping.

Thielindra Inactive for 3 months

Jul 26, 2022 3:31 pm

Jul 26, 2022 3:31 pm

The Approaching Storm

Damn, they’re quick, Orlan thinks, watching a dagger fly towards his face. He steps back at the last moment, feeling the rush of air as the knife flies past his nose.

Last edited July 26, 2022 3:32 pm

Rolls

Defense 6, no time to draw his shield - (1d20)

(3) = 3

Jul 26, 2022 4:38 pm

Jul 26, 2022 4:38 pm

The Approaching Storm

This damn Ambrian is going to get himself killed before we leave the city! With a sigh, Vargos charges towards the men to stand beside his new companion. He draws forth his axe, a simple but functional weapon, and swings a mighty blow towards one of the two dragging the smaller target away.

OOC:

Assuming they have any defense, probably not a hit.

Last edited July 26, 2022 4:38 pm

Rolls

Strong 15 (Attack) - (1d20)

(14) = 14

Axe Damage - (1d10)

(7) = 7

Jul 27, 2022 1:30 am

Jul 27, 2022 1:30 am

The Approaching Storm

Defense is -3, so yes that's a miss for Vargos.

Jul 27, 2022 6:08 am

Jul 27, 2022 6:08 am

The Approaching Storm

OOC:

Q, are there any bystanders, folks who might have seen more of what happened than we did? And they two already on the ground, are they goblins as well?

Jul 27, 2022 11:43 am

Jul 27, 2022 11:43 am

The Approaching Storm

There are no visible bystanders. The two on the ground are hard to see in the gloom, but it is likely that they are gate guards, and are being held motionless at the end of blades.

Recall that you're here to meet up with your guide.

Jul 28, 2022 4:23 am

Jul 28, 2022 4:23 am

The Approaching Storm

"Could be that's our guide!" Aolita says to her companions, new and old, and then she's stepping forward, one hand in a worn and heavily decorated leather bag she wears across her body. That grasping hand sifts earth and sand, clay and pebbles, until she finds what she's looking for. First, though, she tries to help Vaila to her feet.

"Hurry! Your bow! We need to keep them from being taken!"

Jul 29, 2022 2:03 am

Jul 29, 2022 2:03 am

The Approaching Storm

Aolita struggles with Vaila but she appears to be incapacitated.

Orlan and Gristle are up.

Jul 29, 2022 2:47 am

Jul 29, 2022 2:47 am

The Approaching Storm

Gristle hears the cries. Unmistakably goblin. She would have preferred to sit this one out patiently waiting in the shadows for the stronger folk to winnow away the enemies, but she can't let one of her own be dragged away. With a swift move she tugs the leather cord keeping the feathers and baubles in place around the blade of her spear. She smacks Kverula on the hind quarters sending her charging at the one that threw the blade, while she herself slips out of the shadows closing the distance with the ones dragging the goblin away and drives her spear toward the closest one.

Rolls

Accurate (11) Spear Thrust - (1d20)

(13) = 13

Damage Spear - (1d10)

(9) = 9

Accurate (11) Kverula charge - (1d20)

(16) = 16

Kverula Tusk damage - (1d6)

(5) = 5

Thielindra Inactive for 3 months

Jul 29, 2022 3:23 am

Jul 29, 2022 3:23 am

The Approaching Storm

Dodging the dagger,, the knight pulls out his sword and swings at the nearest attacker.

OOC:

Not sure if I should be using accurate or strong for a sword attack, so I’ll roll both.

OOC:

Apparently I should be using a two handed sword.

Last edited July 29, 2022 3:35 pm

Rolls

Accurate 11 sword attack - (1d20)

(11) = 11

Strong 15 sword attack - (1d20)

(12) = 12

Sword damage - (1d8)

(4) = 4

Persuasive 13 sword attack - (1d20)

(8) = 8

2 hand sword damage - (1d12)

(9) = 9

Jul 29, 2022 3:34 pm

Jul 29, 2022 3:34 pm

The Approaching Storm

[ +- ] OOC

Gristle and his pig not named Gristle charge from the shadows and harry the cloaked figures, but do little other than to put them on the defensive.

Orlan, however, rushes up after dodging the thrown dagger and returns the favour with a sword to the chest.

Thielindra Inactive for 3 months

Jul 29, 2022 3:38 pm

Jul 29, 2022 3:38 pm

The Approaching Storm

Orlan slices through into the bandit/rogue/villain, (not sure who they are yet).

Rolls

Extra damage two handed sword - (1d12)

(6) = 6

Persuasive 13 - (1d20)

(4) = 4

Jul 29, 2022 3:50 pm

Jul 29, 2022 3:50 pm

The Approaching Storm

[ +- ] OOC

Orlan's attack on the foe is swift and brutal. Stunning him with a powerful blow that opens his ribcage, he immediately backhands the small man in the throat with his blade on the backstroke, snapping his neck.

Orlan, Vargos and Gristle (and Krevula) are each in close melee with the two remaining, and they pick their targets sparingly as they attempt to withdraw with their initial target. One grabs the smaller foe (a goblin those in melee quickly see) by the collar, and starts to drag the goblin toward the gate.

The two by the gate draw bows, uncover the strings protected against the rain, and fit an arrow. (They'll fire next round.)

Everybody can act. (Except Vaila, who is down for 3 more rounds.)

Rolls

accurate 10-3, accurate 10-3 - (1d20, 1d20)

1d20 : (1) = 1

1d20 : (15) = 15

Vaila's stun - (1d6)

(4) = 4

Jul 29, 2022 10:06 pm

Jul 29, 2022 10:06 pm

The Approaching Storm

Not content to let who might possibly be his guide he dragged away, Vargos swings his axe at the back of the man doing the dragging. Yet again, his blade swings through the air as the man steps aside.

Last edited July 29, 2022 10:07 pm

Rolls

Strong (15-3) 12 - (1d20)

(16) = 16

Axe - (1d10)

(4) = 4

Jul 29, 2022 11:27 pm

Jul 29, 2022 11:27 pm

The Approaching Storm

"What's wrong with you?!" Aolita whispers hoarsely to Vaila. But when she sees the other woman is not like to rise and take up her bow, she curses long and loud in her mother tongue as she scurries forward, her small feet moving rapidly beneath her long, often-patched and beautifully adorned (to some) robes.

"You!" she cries as she lifts a fist full of squirming larvae out of her satchel, "Unhand our guide!"

OOC:

Casting Larvae Boil at one of the men trying to escape with the goblin guide. Rolling Resolute, they resist with Strong. Also taking 1d4 Temporary Corruption. Looks like it might be successful, so rolling 1d4 damage. That will continue every round while Aolita keeps making Resolute checks.

The power: The mystic can infuse an enemy’s body with larvae that then start to eat their way out. The mystic plants larvae inside the body of its enemy, which then start to eat their way out. The poor target suffers 1D4 damage each turn, ignoring Armor. The effect is automatic the first turn and continues until the mystic fails a [Resolute←Strong] test. Material: a handful of larvae.

Last edited July 29, 2022 11:30 pm

Rolls

Resolute (14<-Strong) - (1d20)

(4) = 4

Temp Corruption - (1d4)

(2) = 2

Nom Nom Nom - (1d4)

(3) = 3

Jul 30, 2022 3:05 pm

Jul 30, 2022 3:05 pm

The Approaching Storm

Vargos swings wickedly and the creature steps free, deftly maneuvering the blow.

Aolita casts her larvae at the same one, holding the goblin, and the creature screams in a high pitch, releasing the guide and tearing at his own flesh as he tumbles to the ground, writhing in agony.

Thielindra Inactive for 3 months

Jul 30, 2022 3:25 pm

Jul 30, 2022 3:25 pm

The Approaching Storm

Orlan swings his two handed sword as his first opponent falls, attempting to slice the one beside him.

Rolls

Persuasive 13 - (1d20)

(15) = 15

2 hand sword damage - (1d12)

(11) = 11

Jul 31, 2022 2:12 am

Jul 31, 2022 2:12 am

The Approaching Storm

Orlan's devastating stroke misses.

Gristle acts next before the foes.

Aug 2, 2022 1:22 am

Aug 2, 2022 1:22 am

The Approaching Storm

Curse these tall folk and their ability to avoid being poked full of holes. Gristle stuck her tongue out of the corner of her mouth, focusing and concentrating on her next strike while Kverula wheeled around and attempted to charge the same target.

Rolls

Accurate (10-3) Spear Thrust - (1d20)

(1) = 1

Damage Spear - (1d10)

(9) = 9

Accurate (11-3) Kverula charge - (1d20)

(17) = 17

Kverula Tusk damage - (1d6)

(3) = 3

Aug 2, 2022 1:55 am

Aug 2, 2022 1:55 am

The Approaching Storm

OOC:

Vargos will try to take a single hit that targets either Orlan or Aolita.

Aug 2, 2022 2:43 am

Aug 2, 2022 2:43 am

The Approaching Storm

Gristle's spear takes the cloaked man in the belly, and he falls, gasping, clearly out of the fight.

The remaining one, the one with the larval infection, turns and runs toward the two by the gate, clutching his sides and gagging.

Leaving melee provokes a Free Attack from everyone that they were in melee with. That's Orlan, Vargos and Gristle (and Krevula).

The two at the gate fire their bows at Orlan and Vargos, the larger targets in the melee.
First shot: Vargos intercepts the shot at Orlan, and takes 4 damage automatically. Roll Armor (1d6) and reduce the 4 damage by the result of the roll.
Second shot: The other shot Vargos can roll Defense +0, or take 4 damage. If he fails to roll his Defense or lower, then roll Armor (1d6) and reduce the 4 damage by the result of the roll.

After that, everyone can act.

Aug 2, 2022 3:07 am

Aug 2, 2022 3:07 am

The Approaching Storm

OOC:

Resolute to take the hit.

That's not enough to use Bodyguard. I think we're stealing the good rolls from all other games.

Armor to block my hit.

Last edited August 2, 2022 3:09 am

Rolls

Resolute 13 - (1d20)

(15) = 15

Ring (Medium) - (1d6)

(4) = 4

Thielindra Inactive for 3 months

Aug 2, 2022 1:12 pm

Aug 2, 2022 1:12 pm

The Approaching Storm

Orlan blinks as Vargos takes the arrow for him, then swears under his breath and tries to slice at the legs of the one running away.

OOC:

Apparently that move caught him off guard

Last edited August 2, 2022 1:13 pm

Rolls

Persuasive 13 - (1d20)

(17) = 17

2 handed sword damage - (1d12)

(1) = 1

Aug 2, 2022 3:30 pm

Aug 2, 2022 3:30 pm

The Approaching Storm

OOC:

Vargos only tried to take an arrow. He failed his Bodyguard roll to do so. You should still roll to avoid, then possibly roll your armor.

Thielindra Inactive for 3 months

Aug 2, 2022 4:36 pm

Aug 2, 2022 4:36 pm

The Approaching Storm

Orlan tries to dodge the arrow as he attacks the bandit attempting to flee.

Rolls

Defense 6 - (1d20)

(12) = 12

Fortified chainmail (impeding) - (1d8)

(5) = 5

Aug 3, 2022 12:16 am

Aug 3, 2022 12:16 am

The Approaching Storm

Vargos and Orlan both take the arrows to the body, but your armor protects you from anything but a bruise.

Orlan retaliates with a wild sword swing, but it whistles in the rain above the diminuitive foes' head.

Aug 3, 2022 3:11 am

Aug 3, 2022 3:11 am

The Approaching Storm

Sometimes Gristle surprised even herself. Seeing the one fleeing she tried to get another jab in while Kverula attempted to slice into his legs with her tusks.

Rolls

Accurate (10)-3 Spear Thrust - (1d20)

(13) = 13

Damage Spear - (1d10)

(5) = 5

Accurate (11-3) Kverula charge - (1d20)

(3) = 3

Kverula Tusk damage - (1d6)

(1) = 1

Aug 3, 2022 3:37 am

Aug 3, 2022 3:37 am

The Approaching Storm

Gritting her teeth behind her mask, Aolita focuses -- focuses on the things inside the fleeing man, eating their way out... but the man is too far away, and she feels her grasp on him loosen, and slip. Cursing, she flinches when there are suddenly arrows in the air. "Vargos! Watch the bowmen!" she calls.

OOC:

Nice spell while it lasted!

Last edited August 3, 2022 3:40 am

Rolls

Resolute 14 - (1d20)

(19) = 19

Aug 3, 2022 3:42 am

Aug 3, 2022 3:42 am

The Approaching Storm

Huffing, Vargos charges to the bowman who had moments ago tried to skewer him. His axe swings a wide arc, counterbalanced by his shield, flying towards the archer with great power.

Rolls

Strong 15 - (1d20)

(10) = 10

Axe - (1d10)

(7) = 7

Aug 4, 2022 12:20 am

Aug 4, 2022 12:20 am

The Approaching Storm

[ +- ] Aolita's spell continues!

Suffering from the larval infection, the figure falls to the ground once more and is beset by Gristle and Krevula, and takes another damage as the boar gores his leg.

Vargos clobbers one of the archers with his sword heavily.

OOC:

Does Vargos want to knock them down (they'll get back up on their turn) or take a Free Attack?

[ +- ] Summary

Rolls

Larval damage - (1d4)

(3) = 3

Additional damage for being prone when Krevula gores him - (1d4)

(1) = 1

Aug 4, 2022 12:22 am

Aug 4, 2022 12:22 am

The Approaching Storm

The only good Ambrian is a dead Ambrian, Vargos thinks cruelly as he continues hacking away at the defenseless archer.

Rolls

Strong 15 - (1d20)

(5) = 5

Axe - (1d10)

(9) = 9

Thielindra Inactive for 3 months

Aug 9, 2022 1:20 pm

Aug 9, 2022 1:20 pm

The Approaching Storm

OOC:

Bump

Aug 9, 2022 11:13 pm

Aug 9, 2022 11:13 pm

The Approaching Storm

OOC:

Sorry for the delay.

[ +- ] The story so far...

Vargos cracks the man twice and he drops, broken bones and gaping wounds leaving no doubt that it's instantly dead.

The infected one, scrambles away mindlessly, tearing at its skin and the grubs that boil underneath. Gristle and Krevula and each take a Free Attack.

The remaining archer seeing almost all of its companions down wants to run for the gate, but knows if it does, Vargos will likely cut it down. It surrenders, dropping its bow. Elvish eyes look from under the cloak at Vargos, and it hisses, "Mercy, warrior, I yield."

Aug 10, 2022 5:16 pm

Aug 10, 2022 5:16 pm

The Approaching Storm

With as much aggression as he had swung his axe, Vargos rips the hood away from the figure. His axe hovers in the air poised to strike, but it continues hovering. The barbarian wasn't one for talking. He was a man of action. Still grasping the cloaked elf with his shield-arm, he turns to the new group without a shred of mercy in his eyes. They would have questions.

Aug 11, 2022 2:56 pm

Aug 11, 2022 2:56 pm

The Approaching Storm

The assailant was down, clearly under the throes of something far worse than anything Gristle could further inflict upon him. There was no honor in attacking them. Gristle watched him scramble through the dirt and heard the calls of surrender from the other. That was enough for her. She pulled her spear up close to her body and patted her leg calling for Kverula to come to her side. Keeping a watchful eye on the one wallowing in the dirt Gristle leaned back against the post of the gate trying to keep her back protected and a watchful eye on the rest as events unfolded.

Aug 11, 2022 8:44 pm

Aug 11, 2022 8:44 pm

The Approaching Storm

Aolita relents as well, letting the wild sorcery drift from her fingertips into the wind like ash. There are enough bodies already — another won’t help matters.

If nothing else, this proves to the woman that the group is capable. That a journey into the recesses of the Davokar might not be a death sentence for most of them…

Aug 14, 2022 5:58 pm

Aug 14, 2022 5:58 pm

The Approaching Storm

The two remaining, one near dead and blood leaking from its mouth, the other weaponless at axe point, are under your control.

The two gate guards scramble to their feet, one woozy and rubbing a bump on the back of his head. He pulls a blade from his side, "Get him Fen, tie the blaggard up." The haler guard yanks his own belt off and secures the archer's wrists behind his back with a savage tug.

Modek

The small man that was being attacked stands hesitantly. He looks around. "I am Modek, guide. Are you explorer's license folk from Revora? Show me license and Modek take you into forest. If no, then forget saw Modek and Modek wait for people." He seems anxious to be off, even though that means leaving the elves in the guard's hands.

Thielindra Inactive for 3 months

Aug 17, 2022 1:39 am

Aug 17, 2022 1:39 am

The Approaching Storm

Orlan cleans his sword in the grass and dips his chin in greeting. "We are the explorers. Thank you for being our guide." He shows the license to the small creature.

Aug 17, 2022 5:32 am

Aug 17, 2022 5:32 am

The Approaching Storm

Aolita comes forward as well, and that bone mask cants again as she asks a question.

"Why were they trying to take you, Modek?"

OOC:

Anything specifically marking those Elves (presume they were all elves) as Iron Pact?

Aug 17, 2022 3:53 pm

Aug 17, 2022 3:53 pm

The Approaching Storm

Not trusting anyone, especially goblins, Vargos takes his position beside Aolita and just a small step before her. His shield and axe are held loosely, but ready enough for anything. And he remains silent, a stoic statue capable of great violence.

Aug 17, 2022 11:06 pm

Aug 17, 2022 11:06 pm

The Approaching Storm

Gristle feels a genuine smile lifting the corners of her mouth. To be so fortunate as to have another goblin to join her on this adventure was truly more valuable than the thaler she would be paid for her efforts. She wasted no time in closing the distance and giving Modek a hearty smack between the shoulder blades breaking into goblin speak as comfortably as her favorite cloak, and becomes uncharacteristically chatty.

"Fart-breathed stable scraping, don't you realize you could have gotten yourself killed. Lucky for you I've convinced these tall-folk to rescue you. You can thank me with an appropriate gift of suitable value at your earliest convenience. Not much good as a guide if you're dead in the elven cook pot I would say. I call myself Gristle. I do not think I have heard your name spoken in the camps, are you sure you know what you are doing? I'll do my very best to keep you on the tall-folk's good side, but you're going to have to help me out here."

Modek

Aug 17, 2022 11:58 pm

Aug 17, 2022 11:58 pm

The Approaching Storm

Modek

To Aolita, she says, "Revenge. I guided the human into Davokar, and only Modek escaped. The elves chased me out, yes?"

To Gristle, he replies in Goblin, Good for you you rescued me, fermented tree root sap. The mushrooms would grow thick from your skin if Modek didn't lead you through the safe ways. He cackles as the fun word play.

Aug 20, 2022 2:36 am

Aug 20, 2022 2:36 am

The Approaching Storm

"Then why do we still stand here at the gates wart encrusted frog licker, let us be about it. Show us these safe ways."

Doesn't seem like he knew the safe ways if he had elves chasing after him, Gristle thought to herself.

Aug 22, 2022 4:43 pm

Aug 22, 2022 4:43 pm

The Approaching Storm

Vaila manages to drag herself up from the ground and wipe the spittle from her mouth. She does not look embarrassed, but she is, at least, apologetic. "I am getting old. I will try to not let this happen again... If it makes me a burden, protect me last, I can get along by myself."

Aug 22, 2022 4:50 pm

Aug 22, 2022 4:50 pm

The Approaching Storm

"At last, you rise. And still wish to join us. You have guts, old one. I like that," Vargos grunts to Vaila. His facial expression doesn't change from looking as though he had just stepped in ogre excrement, but the tone of his voice almost seems amused. Almost.

"Goblin, lead the way. We have much to accomplish, and there seems to be danger already."

Modek

Aug 22, 2022 5:12 pm

Aug 22, 2022 5:12 pm

The Approaching Storm

Modek

The goblin shuffles out from the gate, his legs quicker than he looks, and hurries into the open. The rain seems dirtier outside the walls, somehow, as if muddy, but the stink of the city quickly vanishes and you fall into pace with Modek.

After five minutes, you reach the road leading into the forest. Modek stops under the shelter of a tree to the side and rubs his hands. He quickly checks his gear, a small larder bag, a canteen, and several weapons. "Long way to goes now. Many dangers in Davokar. Last time for scared people to turn back!" His toothy smile indicates menace, likely directed to whatever might accost you.

Aug 23, 2022 4:09 am

Aug 23, 2022 4:09 am

The Approaching Storm

OOC:

A question - how diligently will we be tracking rations and the like? Just noticing that Aolita doesn’t have field rations or the equivalent. I know a couple of us have Bushcraft, but to be prepared... Okay if we pay for a bit of Waybread or the like without needing to make a shopping trip?

Aug 23, 2022 3:45 pm

Aug 23, 2022 3:45 pm

The Approaching Storm

OOC:

You had all day to shop, from the meeting until sunset, and were given coin to purchase supplies. I won't be very very strict on rations, however.

Aug 24, 2022 5:02 am

Aug 24, 2022 5:02 am

The Approaching Storm

"We are not scared, and we are not turning back,"Aolita says to the goblin, even as she strides forward and silently communicates with Vargos. Her staff thumps on the ground as she goes, like that of an old crone several times her age.

Keep our eyes on this one, we should, the man hears inside his skull. The witch’s voice is hard to describe in these moments, typically landing somewhere between an intimate whisper and a gutteral shout.

OOC:

Will grab and pay for some waybread then.

Last edited August 24, 2022 5:25 am

Thielindra Inactive for 3 months

Aug 24, 2022 12:58 pm

Aug 24, 2022 12:58 pm

The Approaching Storm

"We shouldn’t linger here." Orlan looks at the guards dragging away the bound elf, then hefts his pack securely on his shoulders. "Lead the way, Modek."

Aug 24, 2022 2:48 pm

Aug 24, 2022 2:48 pm

The Approaching Storm

"Not going to run into anything I haven't seen before. Stick together. We will get there. I'll watch our backs." Vaila shuffles forward at the rear end of the line., although the shuffling seemed to be at least a bit contrived.

Last edited August 24, 2022 2:48 pm

Aug 24, 2022 5:05 pm

Aug 24, 2022 5:05 pm

The Approaching Storm

You trudge through the forest along a wide trail, but it quickly narrows as if being swallowed by the dark press of trees. Wide branches scrape your arms, threaten to sweep your hats away. Surely the forest is more used that this? Modek presses on, his small stature giving him a bit more space.

Modek

He stops suddenly, holding a hand up and looking at you in fear. He holds a hand to his mouth and points at the first person, then looks around, listening. You hear a crashing far away, but it seems to be going farther. Modek nods and then hurries off on his increasingly invisible trail, but he's increasingly making less noise than he had been, downright creeping along, as he leads you over roots and fallen trees on some game path.

He stops at points at some hanging humanoid figures. "Elfs no want us go further."

https://cdnb.artstation.com/p/assets/images/images/017/985/685/large/lauren-roberts-moodshot-forest.jpg?1558087510

Aug 24, 2022 6:28 pm

Aug 24, 2022 6:28 pm

The Approaching Storm

Vaila obviously hasn't seen the bodies, but she knows something's dead somewhere; her owl is softly hopping on her shoulder, barely restraining itself from partaking of a free meal. "The elves don't want us anywhere. But it's definitely not the first time I've disappointed an elf, and it probably won't be the last. Let's keep moving. They're almost certainly going to be watching us soon, though, if they're not already."

Last edited August 24, 2022 6:29 pm

Aug 25, 2022 2:36 pm

Aug 25, 2022 2:36 pm

The Approaching Storm

Aolita’s eyes, wide and white behind her mask, are on the hanging bodies as they come upon them. Her footfalls are soft as she approaches the grim scene.

"Guide," she says to Modek quietly, as though she is trying to not wake the forest itself, "if these unfortunate wayfarers could talk, what would you have them tell you? What bit of knowledge will help us on this journey?"

Last edited August 25, 2022 2:36 pm

Aug 25, 2022 8:35 pm

Aug 25, 2022 8:35 pm

The Approaching Storm

As his ward speaks, Vargos groans. He knew where this was heading, and he hated it. What Aolita was capable of made him sick to his stomach, and he worried about what the talents were doing to her. Sure, the power was useful, but that didn't mean he had to like it.

Aug 26, 2022 3:11 am

Aug 26, 2022 3:11 am

The Approaching Storm

Modek

The goblin guide turns top you, eyes suspicious with all the superstitions he was raised with. He mutters under his breath, "Don't ask the dead nothing. They might answer. "

He chews on that for a long moment. "Which way did elfs go, I would ask."

Aug 28, 2022 5:07 am

Aug 28, 2022 5:07 am

The Approaching Storm

When she comes to stand beneath the unfortunate, hanging souls, Aolita looks up at them and their creaking ropes.

"Vargos," she says precisely, pronouncing his name in a way that no one else with them can, "if you cut one down I can have a word with him. Ask him about the elves and other dangers."

Thielindra Inactive for 3 months

Aug 28, 2022 3:20 pm

Aug 28, 2022 3:20 pm

The Approaching Storm

Orlan glances at Aolita with one raised eyebrow. "Does anyone else find that a little bit creepy? Talking to the dead and all?"

Aug 28, 2022 4:31 pm

Aug 28, 2022 4:31 pm

The Approaching Storm

As he has done many times before, the grizzled warrior moves to the lightest-looking corpse and cuts it down. He lays it on the ground face up, and begins the small tasks of leaving palms up and open, straightening legs, and ensuring the face was prepared. It was not his favorite task, but it needed to be done. If he agrees with Orlan, he doesn't show it.

Aug 29, 2022 6:58 am

Aug 29, 2022 6:58 am

The Approaching Storm

Ignoring Orlan -- though not really -- Aolita paces around as Vargos prepares the body, then she comes to its side. Ritual components are in her hands and the chant is in her head... but she sniffs the air briefly and discovers there is something she does not care for here. Some scent, some ill-intention she cannot grasp. She kneels and places two fingers on the man's slack lips, then raises and inspects them.

"Too far gone," she announces. "We do not have the time it would take to coax answers from him."

Turning to look at the rest of the group, and then their goblin guide, she rises, saying, "we should proceed."

OOC:

So, this is a little embarrassing -- that's a ritual, and takes at least an hour. Sorry for wasting our time, everyone!

Modek

Aug 29, 2022 3:49 pm

Aug 29, 2022 3:49 pm

The Approaching Storm

Modek

The goblin looks a little relieved and then hurries farther. "Elfs know someone came. Bad for Modek." He scampers away trying to put distance between himself and the warning tree.

Aug 31, 2022 6:34 pm

Aug 31, 2022 6:34 pm

The Approaching Storm

Vaila speaks as she stares sightlessly at the forest canopy in the distance. "If we cannot learn anything here, let us continue quickly. There is nothing to be gained from remaining here unless we feel that it will be too hard for the elves to find us if we move on."

Aug 31, 2022 9:19 pm

Aug 31, 2022 9:19 pm

The Approaching Storm

"Agreed," says Vargos stiffly, his eyes farting back and forth through the forest canopy. If the elves knew they were here, the group was likely being watched. "Guide the way, goblin."

Rolls

Vigilant 10 - (1d20)

(20) = 20

Sep 1, 2022 10:29 pm

Sep 1, 2022 10:29 pm

The Approaching Storm

Aolita’s eyes, behind her mask, linger on the dead a few seconds long — but then she turns and hurries along as well.

Sep 2, 2022 1:37 pm

Sep 2, 2022 1:37 pm

The Approaching Storm

Onward, along paths faint and illused. The forest grows more and more oppressive the farther you get from Thistle Hold. Strange sounds, creaking, clicking, breathing, just behind the next tree, or the bush you look at. Nothing there, at least that what you can see in the full dark. No sky, no stars above.

Modek stops and gathers you all, and fingers a broken branch on the side of the 'trail'.

Modek

"A root cave, dry." He points in the direction of the branch. "Must see if anything else camps inside first, before goes crawlings in and --" he claps his hands loudly together and giggles. "Bad day."

He gestures, clearly wanting one of the armored people to go check. You can see where the bush has been moved aside by someone passing. Not a trail, but not unmarked either.

Sep 2, 2022 10:03 pm

Sep 2, 2022 10:03 pm

The Approaching Storm

Vargos gives a pointed look to Orlan as he moves to Aolita's side. His role was here, with her.

Thielindra Inactive for 3 months

Sep 4, 2022 2:40 pm

Sep 4, 2022 2:40 pm

The Approaching Storm

Orlan shrugs at Vargos, glances back at the group and enters the cave.

Last edited September 4, 2022 2:59 pm

Sep 4, 2022 4:45 pm

Sep 4, 2022 4:45 pm

The Approaching Storm

Orlan leads the way along the path, and after fifteen paces, finds a tree with large a large, exposed root cluster. Underneath the tree is a depression, likely naturally caused, perhaps dug out by successive animals in years past. The hole is dark even in the darkness of the night, and Orlan senses instinctively that there is some threat here. Is it the smell of a predator, or a nameless malevolence that merely radiates its hate? In either event, he steps inside.

A nameless rush, the slam of many tiny beasts into his chainmail, and suddenly he's wrapped in a swarm of something fel.

The character with the highest Quick score can act first, with higher Vigilant resolving ties. These creatures are Quick 15, which is higher than any player but Gristle -- for a tie, the higher Vigilant score acts first, and their 11 beats Gristle's 10 so they go first. They attack Orlan, who should roll against his Defense -1 or take 0 Penetrating damage (ignores 5 points armor). If he fails to defend then he rolls armor (1d6) and if any bites get through (he doesn't roll a 5 or 6), even though it does no physical damage, he'll take 1d6 temporary corruption damage.

Everyone may act in whatever order they choose.

Thielindra Inactive for 3 months

Sep 4, 2022 5:07 pm

Sep 4, 2022 5:07 pm

The Approaching Storm

Orlan shouts in surprise and backs against the edge of the roots, trying to dislodge the creatures on his back.

OOC:

Not sure if I can use the leader ability on the same turn. If so, the swarm takes an extra 1d4 dmg per hit by my allies.

Rolls

Defense 6-1 - (1d20)

(16) = 16

Chainmail - (1d8)

(3) = 3

Temporary Corruption - (1d6)

(1) = 1

Sep 6, 2022 9:26 pm

Sep 6, 2022 9:26 pm

The Approaching Storm

Axes were of little use against swarms, but that wouldn't stop the warrior from trying to fight them. He quickly drops his pack to retrieve a torch and prepares to light it, hoping that the flames would have more of an affect than a single blade.

Sep 7, 2022 4:59 am

Sep 7, 2022 4:59 am

The Approaching Storm

Falconloft sent a note to Qralloq

Even as the creatures lunge, Vaila's owl screeches a warning, and Vaila has an arrow nocked to her bow and she lets it fly, followed almost instantly by another. She's not looking directly at the creatures that anyone can tell - her aim is guided by the creature's noise as her rheumy eyes look past them.

OOC:

She's designating this thing as her target for hunter's instinct which gives her a second chance per attack to hit. That's a special thing that is not an active ability. As her active ability, she's using Rapid Fire, exchanging her move for an extra attack. ... and oops. That second Attack(1) should have been Attack(2)

, sorry.

Last edited September 7, 2022 5:02 am

Rolls

Attack(1) vs 15 - defense - (d20)

(16) = 16

Attack(1) vs 15 - defense - (d20)

(2) = 2

reroll for Attack(1) - (d20)

(13) = 13

Damage(1) - if hit - (d8+1)

(8) + 1 = 9

Damage(2) - if hit - (d8+1)

(3) + 1 = 4

Sep 8, 2022 5:19 am

Sep 8, 2022 5:19 am

The Approaching Storm

Aolita does not hesitate in moving forward. Vargos has the smart play -- fire -- but the immediate danger is Orlan being overwhelmed by this fel swarm. Bites and stings are one thing -- more things are poisonous in the Davokar than the witch can count -- but worse will be if they wriggle into ears, up noses, or down throats. Some can even burrow through leather, cloth, and skin alike, so the masked woman hurries to help the southron soldier knock the terrible things from his shoulders, back, and legs.

"Keep your mouth closed!" she shouts as she uses her staff and her hands on the things. "Try not to breath!"

OOC:

This is many small critters, not a large beast, correct? Are we talking raccoon, rat, or cockroach-sized vermin? Also, let me know if you need a roll here, Quick or Vigilante perhaps?

Last edited September 8, 2022 5:21 am

Sep 8, 2022 2:41 pm

Sep 8, 2022 2:41 pm

The Approaching Storm

As the swarm of creatures, some kind of abhorent creatures like demonic bats, swirls toward Orlan, and tries to feast, Vaila fires two arrows deep into the mess, and her shafts pin groups of them to the tree beyond, yet they continue to struggle despite their impaling.

As Vargos seeks to light a torch,

OOC:

Half damage (swarm trait), so takes 4+2=6 total damage.

Vargos and Vaila have acted. Gristle, Orlan and Aolita are up.

What is Aolita trying to do, @Harrigan ?

Sep 8, 2022 2:51 pm

Sep 8, 2022 2:51 pm

The Approaching Storm

OOC:

Minimize damage to Orlan — so perhaps offer him a bonus or benefit if and when he rolls his defense? Though if the swarm is all around us and will be attacking everyonewe can model this with a simple attack from her…

Sep 8, 2022 3:00 pm

Sep 8, 2022 3:00 pm

The Approaching Storm

OOC:

There aren't any assist actions that I can find in the ruleset. There is a Bodyguard ability that uses a Resolute test to redirect attacks on yourself, but of course, you need to have that ability. How about a Resolute check to give a +2 to Orlan's Defense?

Sep 8, 2022 3:34 pm

Sep 8, 2022 3:34 pm

The Approaching Storm

OOC:

Works for me! And is in-line with "Advantage," more or less, from the core book. We could also look at the Maneuvers in the Advanced Players Guide, but I think what you suggest here is cool, Q. Rolling below.

Rolls

Resolute Test (14) - (1d20)

(7) = 7

Sep 9, 2022 6:56 pm

Sep 9, 2022 6:56 pm

The Approaching Storm

OOC:

Note that Orlan had indicated they wanted to use the Leader ability, granting 1d4 extra damage to others. Vaila is the only one who attacked, so I'll add that damage.

Half damage (swarm trait), so takes 4+2=6, plus 3 more here, =9 total damage.

I'll give @Zagrave the rest of the day then post for him.

Rolls

extra damage - (1d4, 1d4)

1d4 : (4) = 4

1d4 : (2) = 2

Sep 14, 2022 12:47 am

Sep 14, 2022 12:47 am

The Approaching Storm

OOC:

The rest of the day turns into the weekend+. Apologies.

Gristle and Kverula attack simultaneously, but fail to do any damage to the swarm.

OOC:

Swarm regenerates 4 Toughness, 9-4= 5 total damage.

The creatures unnaturally stitch their wounds together, and squished ones come back to life. They continue to focus on Orlan, despite Aolita's interference.

They attack Orlan, who should roll against his Defense +1 (= -1 +2 for Aolita's assistance) or take 0 Penetrating damage (ignores 5 points armor). If he fails to defend then he rolls armor (1d6) and if any bites get through (he doesn't roll a 5 or 6), even though it does no physical damage, he'll take 1d6 temporary corruption damage.

Everyone may act in whatever order they choose.

Rolls

Gristle Accurate 10-1 - (1d20)

(14) = 14

Kverula Accurate 11-1 - (1d20)

(20) = 20

Sep 14, 2022 3:53 am

Sep 14, 2022 3:53 am

The Approaching Storm

With a lit torch, Vargos enters the fray swinging. His blazing torch leaves glowing arcs as he attempts to batter and alight the strange, dark creatures! A satisfying thud alerts him to the fact that he had swatted a few with his burning cudgel, and the oils spatter and engulf the creatures!

OOC:

Torch seems like a short weapon, and the APG has rules for flaming weapons.

Quote:

The weapon glows and even sparks before bursting into flames when actively used. The weapon deals damage as usual, but the target starts to burn – dealing 1d4 damage for 1d4 turns, starting the turn after the initial hit. The fire is extinguished if the target uses a whole turn to roll on the ground and passes a Quick test.

Last edited September 14, 2022 3:58 am

Rolls

Strong 15 - (1d20)

(11) = 11

Torch (Short Weapon) - (1d8)

(8) = 8

Torch (FIRE!) - (1d4)

(4) = 4

Fire Duration - (1d4)

(2) = 2

Thielindra Inactive for 3 months

Sep 14, 2022 6:30 pm

Sep 14, 2022 6:30 pm

The Approaching Storm

Orlan tries to brush off the creatures and kerp them away from any exposed flesh.

OOC:

Don’t forget you all have an extra 1d4 per attack for the scene from his leadership ability.

Rolls

Defense 7 - (1d20)

(2) = 2

Sep 15, 2022 12:55 am

Sep 15, 2022 12:55 am

The Approaching Storm

Vargos very nearly hits them, and they seem pertrubed by the fire in a way that they haven't been about mundane weapons.

OOC:

Defense is -5, so Vargos needs to roll against his Strong -5 (10=15-5).

Orlan dances away from any further damage.

OOC:

Orlan can still act, as can Aolita, Vaila, and Gristle.

Thielindra Inactive for 3 months

Sep 15, 2022 1:04 am

Sep 15, 2022 1:04 am

The Approaching Storm

Orlan grabs his two handed sword and swipes across the swarm.

Rolls

Persuasive attack 13 - (1d20)

(10) = 10

2 hand sword dmg - (1d12)

(5) = 5

Sep 15, 2022 9:54 pm

Sep 15, 2022 9:54 pm

The Approaching Storm

"These creatures are an abombination. We must dispose of them quickly or they will keep returning. However... I have no idea how to do that. Perhaps returning from death will keep them busy." And so, she fires twice again in quick succession.

Last edited September 15, 2022 9:55 pm

Rolls

Attack 1 vs 15, reroll (if needed), and damage (if needed) - (d20, d20, d8+d4+1)

d20 : (17) = 17

d20 : (17) = 17

d8+d4+1 : (2) + (3) + 1 = 6

Attack 2 vs 15, reroll (if needed), and damage (if needed) - (d20, d20, d8+d4+1)

d20 : (17) = 17

d20 : (6) = 6

d8+d4+1 : (8) + (1) + 1 = 10

Sep 15, 2022 9:59 pm

Sep 15, 2022 9:59 pm

The Approaching Storm

"Creatures of the dark fear fire!" cries out Vargos.

Sep 15, 2022 11:47 pm

Sep 15, 2022 11:47 pm

The Approaching Storm

Seeing that there are too many of the terrible things, Aoilta steps back from Orlan, trusting the man's armor will protect him, then whirls her staff and strikes at the creatures swirling around Vargos. "Blighted things! Begone!" she cries into her mask as she tries to drive them off.

Rolls

Staff Strike (Accurate 12-5=7) - (1d20)

(5) = 5

Potential Damage - (1d6)

(3) = 3

Potential Additional Damage (Thanks, Orlan) - (1d4)

(4) = 4

Sep 16, 2022 12:37 am

Sep 16, 2022 12:37 am

The Approaching Storm

Vaila's bow shot hits, severly wounding the swarm.

OOC:

Total damage: 10

Aolita hits and gets another +1d4 damage for Orlan's Leadership ability.

Sep 17, 2022 6:40 am

Sep 17, 2022 6:40 am

The Approaching Storm

OOC:

Added Aolita's extra damage above.

Sep 17, 2022 5:08 pm

Sep 17, 2022 5:08 pm

The Approaching Storm

OOC:

Not sure if @zagrave will be back soon -- looks like he's been away for 13 days. I'll not wait for him any longer, and assume he's dragging behind. For this fight though, I'll keep Gristle in the mix. Not that they're helping.

Aolita has further damaged the swarm, batting the creatures with her staff, but mundane weapons continue to only do half damage.

Total damage taken: 12

They continue their assault on Orlan, staying wide of Vargos' fire. Orlan who should again roll against his Defense +1 (= -1 +2 for Aolita's assistance) or take 0 Penetrating damage (ignores 5 points armor). If he fails to defend then he rolls armor (1d6) and if any bites get through (he doesn't roll a 5 or 6), even though it does no physical damage, he'll take 1d6 temporary corruption damage.

Everyone may act in whatever order they choose.

Rolls

Gristle Accurate 10-1 - (1d20)

(19) = 19

Kverula Accurate 11-1 - (1d20)

(13) = 13

Sep 17, 2022 10:08 pm

Sep 17, 2022 10:08 pm

The Approaching Storm

Not giving up his assault, despite his lack of luck in striking these creatures, Vargos sweeps his torch once again through the cloud of dark creatures. But he is caught by surprise when he sees Aolita enter the fray, and cuts his swipe short in order to protect her.

OOC:

Wrong game, dice roller! I need them low rolls! Save these 19s for my other D&D games!

Last edited September 17, 2022 10:09 pm

Rolls

Strong (15-5) 10 - (1d20)

(19) = 19

Thielindra Inactive for 3 months

Sep 18, 2022 7:54 pm

Sep 18, 2022 7:54 pm

The Approaching Storm

Nimbly hopping to one side, the knight manages to evade the creatures. Grabbing a torch, He swings at the swarm, hoping to catch them in the flame.

Last edited September 18, 2022 7:55 pm

Rolls

Dodge 7 - (1d20)

(2) = 2

Torch attack persuasive 13 - (1d20)

(10) = 10

Torch damage - (1d8)

(7) = 7

Fire damage - (1d4)

(1) = 1

Sep 18, 2022 10:31 pm

Sep 18, 2022 10:31 pm

The Approaching Storm

Once you knock them down and burn them, they don't regenerate. Each of you uses your weapons to keep them wounded while those with flame burn them and in this matter, you slowly keep them all from attacking you, and kill them all off.

Combat is over.

Sep 19, 2022 12:59 pm

Sep 19, 2022 12:59 pm

The Approaching Storm

OOC:

Haha, were you tired of us flailing around?

Vargos grunts as the creatures fall to the ground and finally lie still. "Well, guide, what say you'll about torches? If you'd rather we keep to the shadows, then we need a pond to smother them." Though he doesn't show concern on his face, he does glance over to Orlan and looks the man over for harm.

Thielindra Inactive for 3 months

Sep 20, 2022 2:19 am

Sep 20, 2022 2:19 am

The Approaching Storm

The knight grimaces as he looks at smears of blood and gore on his armor. He pokes one the vermin with the toe of his boot. "Nasty little buggers, aren’t they? I vote for keeping the torches. Any element of surprise is ruined after the noise of that skirmish."

Sep 20, 2022 11:45 pm

Sep 20, 2022 11:45 pm

The Approaching Storm

"Might as well set a fire behind us as well go for as stealthy as we'll be now. Which isn't a horrible idea. It would keep the elves busy with something other than us."

Sep 21, 2022 4:28 am

Sep 21, 2022 4:28 am

The Approaching Storm

"They know we're here," Aolita says, glancing around, peering into the woods that surround them on all sides. "Whether we brandish flames, or no."

To their goblin guide, she asks, "Are we sheltering here, or moving on?"

Sep 23, 2022 1:23 am

Sep 23, 2022 1:23 am

The Approaching Storm

Modek

"Yes, yes, sleep here."

You sweep out the dead creatures and then gather inside. The hollow is big enough for all of you to lay your bags down, and you light a fire near the entrance, in an old firepit, lined with rocks.

The nice passes, despite a wearying strain in the air for anyone awake, as if the woods are watching you, and slowly getting closer. Still, when you all awake, you've each gotten some rest.

Modek leads you on into the woods and it is near the end of the day, perhaps an hour before sunset, when you depart the main animal trail and find an old stone ruin. A small entryway leads down into a hidden gloom.

Modek points. "There. Lordling went down there." The goblin shivers, afraid to go down again.

https://i.imgur.com/3cxMhJu.png

Sep 23, 2022 2:08 pm

Sep 23, 2022 2:08 pm

The Approaching Storm

"Let's find this puissant piss-ant and be done with this job.
If he has answers for us, I will need some many moments with him, just Aolita and myself." The grizzled warrior turns to his companions to ensure they heard what he had said. It wasn't a request, but a statement. And then he looks to the darkness and moves forward.

Sep 23, 2022 11:37 pm

Sep 23, 2022 11:37 pm

The Approaching Storm

Aolita's slightly scratchy lilt sounds inside Vargos's head.

We need to be careful here...

Then the young witch begins speaking out loud. "The elves might have trapped this place. Laid snares and worse. We should approach with care..."

OOC:

I think at the end of the last scene (or a while ago) Aolita's temp corruption would have cleared, so I set that to 0. Suggesting we move forward here, but very carefully, looking for elf meanness.

Last edited September 23, 2022 11:39 pm

Sep 24, 2022 3:30 pm

Sep 24, 2022 3:30 pm

The Approaching Storm

As you move closer, several of you spot movement in the tries. A warning cry goes up, and the suddenly you're in the middle of a fight.

Elves rise from the trees around you, more of them than you it seems, though not many more. Several have bows, and several more have long spears and are rushing to attack, protecting the archers.

Two archers and two spearmen on one side of the clearing, one and one on the other. It will take the spearmen at least two rounds to get to you, while the archers will begin firing, their first arrows warning shots to try and drive you away. You are all up. (Modek squeaks and hides in the trees.)

Initiative (based on Descending Quick then Vigilant)
13 Elves
11 Vargos
10 Vaila, Orlan
8 Aolita

Sep 24, 2022 4:04 pm

Sep 24, 2022 4:04 pm

The Approaching Storm

Yaaawwwppp! Vargos unleashes a mighty roar as he charges forward towards the nearest spearman! He draws his crude axe and swings a blow with much strength behind it. He underestimates his foe, however, having been used to fighting man and beast. Elves, it would seem, are far more nimble. It ducks out of the way with ease, the axe finding nothing but empty space.

Last edited September 24, 2022 4:05 pm

Rolls

Strong 15 - (1d20)

(18) = 18

Axe - (1d10)

(1) = 1

Sep 25, 2022 7:45 pm

Sep 25, 2022 7:45 pm

The Approaching Storm

"Ancient guardians of the Deep Woods! Davokarian spirits! Wait! We know and honor the pact!" Aolita shouts as she comes forward, making herself known, but trying to defuse tensions that have risen to a crescendo in a matter of seconds. "We only seek to find and retrieve fool Ambrians who have delved to far into this dark forest! To remove them from here!"

"Be ready!" she then hisses lowly to those around her. "I do not expect this to give them pause for long!"

OOC:

Trying to get them to parley or just hesitate so we get the upper hand. If it's possible, she has a defensive posture and is on the lookout for incoming arrows to dodge.

Oh, and cowleyc, if you provide your mailing address I'll send you some new dice for Vargos! Sheesh!

Sep 25, 2022 9:07 pm

Sep 25, 2022 9:07 pm

The Approaching Storm

The elves do pause, and you see the archers ease back on the tension in their arrows. One yells back, "Do not go down there. Do not disturb sleeping Davokar. Leave them to their fate and return to the sunlit lands."

Vaila and Orlan are up.

Thielindra Inactive for 3 months

Sep 25, 2022 10:27 pm

Sep 25, 2022 10:27 pm

The Approaching Storm

Orlan keeps his hand near his sword hilt, but doesn’t draw his weapon. "If you let us take them, they’ll bother you no longer. Let us remove them so your lands are free from outsiders.

Sep 26, 2022 7:17 pm

Sep 26, 2022 7:17 pm

The Approaching Storm

OOC:

Howdy all. Sorry for disappearing there for a bit, was fighting a bit of mental oddness and just kinda slipped away from things. I'll catch back up and rejoin you soon.

Sep 29, 2022 3:12 am

Sep 29, 2022 3:12 am

The Approaching Storm

Orlan: The elves have no interest in allowing you to enter the ruin.

Vaila is up.

OOC:

Thanks for looking in Zagrave, hope your brain settles down for you.

Paging @falconloft

Oct 1, 2022 2:46 am

Oct 1, 2022 2:46 am

The Approaching Storm

Vaila growls at the presence of the elves, and her owl seems to like them no better. It takes to the air, darting into the shadow of the trees. Vaila for her part, has nocked an arrow to her bow, even before she's heard Aolita speak, and lets it fly firing at the space around Vargos, rather than at the elven spearman itself. As the elf dodges Vargo's attack, her arrows fly directly for it.

Last edited October 1, 2022 2:50 am

Rolls

Hunter's Instinct, Rapid Fire - (d20, d20)

d20 : (3) = 3

d20 : (16) = 16

Hunter's Instinct rerolls if needed - (d20, d20)

d20 : (2) = 2

d20 : (15) = 15

damage rolls, if hit. - (1d8+1, 1d8+1)

1d8+1 : (5) + 1 = 6

1d8+1 : (1) + 1 = 2

Oct 1, 2022 11:09 pm

Oct 1, 2022 11:09 pm

The Approaching Storm

Vaila hits with both arrows...

OOC:

The elves have Defense -3 (-3 to your to-hit target numbers) so both hit. They have Armor 2, reducing your damage by a flat 2, so the damage is 4 and 0. They have pain threshold of 4 so Vaila can either attack once more, or knock the spearman down (see below for the Advantage of prone to the others). @falconloft to choose.

[ +- ] Advantage ie Attacking a Prone Target

Oct 4, 2022 4:54 am

Oct 4, 2022 4:54 am

The Approaching Storm

OOC:

Let's knock him down.

With Vaila blocking out the elf's possible movements, it's no surprise that one just catches armor. The other, however, is a solid hit, and the momentum from the arrow kicks the elf off his feet.

Last edited October 4, 2022 4:56 am

Oct 5, 2022 2:12 am

Oct 5, 2022 2:12 am

The Approaching Storm

Next round...

Initiative (based on Descending Quick then Vigilant)
15 Vaila (@falconloft is up; Vaila should have been first in the first round.)
13 Elves
11 Vargos
10 Orlan
8 Aolita

Oct 5, 2022 6:24 pm

Oct 5, 2022 6:24 pm

The Approaching Storm

Not trusting the elf to be put down by Vargos - not because she doesn't trust Vargos specifically, but more that it simply needs to be done - she fires twice more as the elf lies on the ground. "Mercy is for after battles, not during them. That was how I was raised, and since I was stolen to be raised by elves, you should be happy that you're being shot."

And then her bow arm seizes up, and she cannot fire again.

OOC:

5 damage, so I'll take the attack this time, then 7 more. I'm assuming that the free attack can't generate another free attack.

Falconloft sent a note to Qralloq

Last edited October 5, 2022 6:32 pm

Rolls

Rapid Fire vs 12 - (d20, d20)

d20 : (18) = 18

d20 : (12) = 12

Hunter's Instinct rerolls if needed vs 12 - (d20, d20)

d20 : (20) = 20

d20 : (18) = 18

Damage if hit - (1d8+1, 1d8+1)

1d8+1 : (4) + 1 = 5

1d8+1 : (3) + 1 = 4

Secret Roll

oops, advantage damage - (1d4)

(1) = 1

Pain Threshhold attack vs 12 (forgot the +2 last time) - (d20+2)

(14) + 2 = 16

damage - (1d8+1d4+1)

(2) + (4) + 1 = 7

Oct 5, 2022 11:35 pm

Oct 5, 2022 11:35 pm

The Approaching Storm

Vaila fires a bunch of arrows at the fallen spearman, but only one hits. The spearman bounces from the impact, and is nearly gone.

However, her zealous exertion is too much, and she falls to the ground, writhing and foaming at the mouth in some kind of age-based seizure.

Oct 10, 2022 5:02 am

Oct 10, 2022 5:02 am

The Approaching Storm

OOC:

Have we talked at all during the journey to know what's happening to Valia, whether we would expect this, etc.?

Oct 10, 2022 3:13 pm

Oct 10, 2022 3:13 pm

The Approaching Storm

OOC:

If you haven't, or if @Falconloft doesn't think she would be forthcoming, her spasms are the same as happened inside Thistle Hold, and she came out of it after a minute or so.

Oct 10, 2022 5:45 pm

Oct 10, 2022 5:45 pm

The Approaching Storm

OOC:

She is not going to volunteer anything, but she will talk about it if asked.

Last edited October 10, 2022 5:45 pm

Oct 11, 2022 5:34 am

Oct 11, 2022 5:34 am

The Approaching Storm

OOC:

K, cool. I think the elves are up next regardless, the bastards.

Oct 11, 2022 3:02 pm

Oct 11, 2022 3:02 pm

The Approaching Storm

The elves pause, their aggression suddenly tempered by unease. Rapid elvish chitters between them. The archers hold their arrows, ready to fire but don't, and the spearmen look to want to withdraw, dragging their fallen with them.

Did you let them go? Does anyone speak elvish?

OOC:

Vaila speaks Elvish, but is busy convulsing at the moment.

Oct 12, 2022 2:17 am

Oct 12, 2022 2:17 am

The Approaching Storm

Aolita takes up a crouched defensive position near Vaila, holding her staff before her in both hands. On the lookout for an elven counterattack, she protects the fallen woman.

"Vaila! What’s wrong with you?!" she hisses, trying to gauge whether the woman will recover without assistance.

OOC:

I’m forgetting where the game might list what languages we would all know…

Oct 12, 2022 5:32 pm

Oct 12, 2022 5:32 pm

The Approaching Storm

OOC:

Vaila speaks Elvish from the Elvish trait; she was raised by them. Languages aren't mentioned much in the book, it's more of a contextual thing than a mechanical one. For example, "The Saars of clan Saar-Kahn speak in a guttural language, barely comprehensible to other barbarians." (p28) As far as I can tell, if a trait made a note of it, you speak it, otherwise you just speak your local language?

Vaila is out for four rounds, so I'm assuming I shouldn't have her come out of it quite yet, but I will when I get the go ahead.

Oct 12, 2022 5:37 pm

Oct 12, 2022 5:37 pm

The Approaching Storm

Harrigan says:

Aolita takes up a crouched defensive position near Vaila, holding her staff before her in both hands. On the lookout for an elven counterattack, she protects the fallen woman.

Though the elves have halted in their attack, Vargos does not trust them to stay their spears for long. He returns to the side of his sworn ward, and holds his shield at the ready. He knows nothing of their flowery speech, and has no gift for speaking. But he does have other gifts, and he holds his shield at the ready.

Oct 13, 2022 1:26 am

Oct 13, 2022 1:26 am

The Approaching Storm

Aolita's voice sounds inside Vargos's head as the witch checks on Vaila.

Stand ready, the Iron Pact will not give up so easily...

Then, to foreign soldier, she calls out with her mortal voice. "Orlan! Help me move her, to cover or underground! Those elves will not stay gone long!"

Thielindra Inactive for 3 months

Oct 13, 2022 7:10 pm

Oct 13, 2022 7:10 pm

The Approaching Storm

Orlan swiftly picks up the twitching elf and carries her to a small outcropping, away from the elven arrows. He turns and faces the group, hand at his sword, ready for the elves to attack.

Oct 13, 2022 11:35 pm

Oct 13, 2022 11:35 pm

The Approaching Storm

If you let them retreat, retreat they shall.

With Vaila convulsing, Orlan manages to get the elderly woman into the ruin's entrance, when she comes out of it.

The ruin contains a tunnel leading downward into the ground, curving to the left and with stairlike risers. The smell of foetid earth rises from the tunnel, but it would be quite defensible compared to the open ground and the elven archers.

Oct 14, 2022 1:33 am

Oct 14, 2022 1:33 am

The Approaching Storm

"Inside, but stay close!" barks the warrior, recognizing that they were still in danger of hidden enemies. And elves were not to be trusted. He retrieves the torch he had thrown to the ground, and shoves Aolita into the cavern. It was not often he was so forceful as this, but it was not often they were in situations as dangerous.

Oct 18, 2022 1:36 am

Oct 18, 2022 1:36 am

The Approaching Storm

When Vaila comes to, within the safety of the ruin, it occurs to her that she picked up something of what the elves were chattering about.

Qralloq sent a note to Falconloft

Oct 22, 2022 4:02 pm

Oct 22, 2022 4:02 pm

The Approaching Storm

OOC:

I know Harrigan is out of town this weekend, but Bump! @falconloft, do you report what you heard?

Oct 25, 2022 12:30 am

Oct 25, 2022 12:30 am

The Approaching Storm

OOC:

I'll just post the note to Falconloft and assume Vaila passes that on so we can move forward.

Qralloq says:

(from the note="Falconloft") When you were convulsing in your seizure, you were still cognizant of your surroundings. In elven, you heard them, say, "The corruption has them already. Back off, Davokar has already begun to take that one! If they survive, we can finish them off later. It's too late to save them now."

Thielindra Inactive for 3 months

Oct 25, 2022 1:29 am

Oct 25, 2022 1:29 am

The Approaching Storm

Orlan glances down at himself, noting the dings in his armor. He appears unscathed, as far as he can tell. "Corruption? Can any of you tell if we’ve been corrupted? Or are the elves just trying to trick us so we’re vulnerable to attack?"

Oct 25, 2022 1:32 am

Oct 25, 2022 1:32 am

The Approaching Storm

The brutish warrior grunts. They had said they'd be back. What else mattered? He peers deeper into the cave, holding out the torch.

Oct 25, 2022 3:48 pm

Oct 25, 2022 3:48 pm

The Approaching Storm

OOC:

Sorry, I meant to post yesterday and got caught up.

As soon as Vaila recovers, and the elves are out of earshot, she narrows her eyes (as if that would help her see better) and looks around at the veiled blobs that make up her companions. She grumbles, "They think we are already dead. They are not leaving. They will be back when we are weaker. Who is it that has been corrupted?"

Oct 26, 2022 7:26 am

Oct 26, 2022 7:26 am

The Approaching Storm

Once they are in the (extremely relative) safety of the passage, Aolita fusses over and tends to Vaila until the woman recovers. She hushes the old soul and all her questions as she helps her to her feet.

"Tut. Tut! What is this," the little witch says, "that happens to you, Vaila? This is twice now, when steel is drawn and arrows fly, that you've collapsed. What happens to you, woman? Will we find you on the ground at ever turn as we explore here below ground?"

Last edited October 28, 2022 4:23 pm

Oct 28, 2022 1:50 pm

Oct 28, 2022 1:50 pm

The Approaching Storm

Vaila grumbles at being called out on her illness. "I do not know. When I was very young, it would happen all the time. Then it stopped. Now that I am old, it seems to have started again. Perhaps it is a harbinger of the end of my life. But do not worry about me. If I become a burden, leave me behind. I will manage, somehow."

Oct 29, 2022 5:39 am

Oct 29, 2022 5:39 am

The Approaching Storm

Aolita merely nods at the other woman as she explains, but her mind reaches out to her clansman companion as he tries to pierce the darkness ahead with his torch.

Vargos, what do you see? Are there signs of the Ambrian fools passing?

To Vaila, she adds, "When this is done, I will look into your condition. There are root brews and unguents that can strengthen the body, that can help fight off these spasms that seize you. It is no thing I dare attempt here, in the Davokar, but rather beneath clear skies, and with unspoiled soil beneath our feet."

And if you do become a burden, she doesn't say, we will indeed leave you behind.

Oct 29, 2022 1:37 pm

Oct 29, 2022 1:37 pm

The Approaching Storm

Vargos says nothing to Aolita in response,instead lowering his torch to look for any sign of tracks. The silence helps him concentrate, and any signs on the ground are seen clear as day.

Last edited October 29, 2022 1:38 pm

Rolls

Vigilant 10 - (1d20)

(2) = 2

Oct 29, 2022 5:01 pm

Oct 29, 2022 5:01 pm

The Approaching Storm

Vargos had no easy task. The lighting is dim, the ground hard, and time has passed. Still, Vargos knows what he is doing, and it doesn't take long before he sees an edge in the ground, from a hard boot. Another over there, a scuff. A leaf tracked in from outside, crushed not blown. A mark where someone spit, although the moisture is long gone. He tracks six, one of whom is no adventurer but a city man.

The faint signs indicate they came in, rested only a short awhile, then proceeded around a corner and down into the depths.

Oct 31, 2022 3:56 pm

Oct 31, 2022 3:56 pm

The Approaching Storm

"We're on the right track, the man came through here. He had five escorts. Be on your guard," the warrior grumbles to any who listen. He stands back up (and stretches his back) before holding the torch further down the cave. It is clear that he is ready to continue deeper.

Oct 31, 2022 8:47 pm

Oct 31, 2022 8:47 pm

The Approaching Storm

Waiting for another stout fighter to go next — Orlan perhaps — Aolita follows behind, inspecting their surroundings carefully as they go. The ceiling, the walls, the floor — she is attentive as she descends.

Oct 31, 2022 9:01 pm

Oct 31, 2022 9:01 pm

The Approaching Storm

Vaila - after a short rest - seems to be no worse off than before, although she still complains at her joints when she's forced to make a step that's too long or too wide. "If we are expecting a less than friendly welcome, perhaps you should whisper rather than imitate a landslide," she says to Vargos. The remark is not made in jest, but there is a lighter tone to it that says that she is not ill-tempered.

If another does not follow Vargos closely, she will. The darkness of the cave does little to affect her vision, bad as it is - in fact, the torch may cause her rather more problems. The owl on her shoulder will, in turn, grab her shoulder with it's right claw or tap her head softly with its beak, and she follows its lead as she follows Vargos'.

Last edited October 31, 2022 9:02 pm

Thielindra Inactive for 3 months

Nov 2, 2022 2:01 am

Nov 2, 2022 2:01 am

The Approaching Storm

Orlan will follow behind the tracker, keeping a sharp ear for any noise ahead.

Nov 2, 2022 2:51 am

Nov 2, 2022 2:51 am

The Approaching Storm

The stone hallway circles down, stone and mortar hold back a layer of gravel, and roots stick through even hard stone. The way down is cold and a descent from the faint veneer of man, quickly not so much built as carved from bare rock. Chill and dray, and then, a mausoleum. Here you find remnants of debris, bones from a meal, a broken wine bottle, and human waste in a corner. The men you follow must have come here.

https://i.imgur.com/QdDjAQT.png

A groan permeates your bones, until you realize that it is reverberating as if from rock itself. Farther on down the passage, was that a flash of light? Or reflection of your torch on something glassy, or metal?

Nov 3, 2022 12:28 am

Nov 3, 2022 12:28 am

The Approaching Storm

Vargos prepares himself silently for what comes ahead. He draws his axe, and holds the torch in his shield-hand. He knows it will have to be dropped as soon as trouble emerges, but the dark was permeating. He grunts, nods his head forward, and continues.

Nov 3, 2022 5:45 am

Nov 3, 2022 5:45 am

The Approaching Storm

Aolita advances with the fighters.

Give me the brand, Vargos, the slender witch says inside the barbarian warrior's head. Her voice is close, caressing. Free your hands for fighting whatever lies ahead...

Nov 4, 2022 2:15 pm

Nov 4, 2022 2:15 pm

The Approaching Storm

The grizzled warrior does as his witch has said. He hands her the torch, but ensures to stand before her, even if that means shadows dance before them.

Nov 8, 2022 4:21 am

Nov 8, 2022 4:21 am

The Approaching Storm

You cautiously advance toward the flash you saw. In the grim darkness, the very earth groaning overhead as if yearning to bury you under its terrible weight, you pass behind the sepulchre and into more ancient rock tunnels. What hands carved these, and how long ago? What fiendish intelligence dug deep into slumbering Davokar? What foolishness brought that noble down here?

At the end of the corridor, it splits left and right in a classic Y-shape. Vargos' eye is drawn to movement on the right, a tail of something disappearing from view. Something long like a crocodile, perhaps.

Nov 8, 2022 4:43 am

Nov 8, 2022 4:43 am

The Approaching Storm

Stay back, Aolita, something draws near.

The glint of the axe in the torchlight seems to sparkle as the wielder turns to look at his travelling fellows. "We are not alone down here. A monster prowls these shadows. Steel yourselves."

Nov 8, 2022 5:43 am

Nov 8, 2022 5:43 am

The Approaching Storm

Still holding the torch aloft, Aolita draws her knife and merely nods as her body tenses, waiting for what may come.

Thielindra Inactive for 3 months

Nov 8, 2022 11:22 pm

Nov 8, 2022 11:22 pm

The Approaching Storm

Orlan draws his sword, watching his footing as he follows.

Nov 10, 2022 2:31 am

Nov 10, 2022 2:31 am

The Approaching Storm

The creature had moved away from you around the next corner. As you approach that corner, weapons on the ready, you hear it scratching at rock. You don't see it yet, but the claws on stone grate at your ears.

Nov 10, 2022 3:11 pm

Nov 10, 2022 3:11 pm

The Approaching Storm

Vaila moves along with the rest, careful to stay quiet. If they have to fight it, she is ready, but if not, well... The creatures of this world, blighted though they may be, do not deserve the same hatred as the elves. She will not strike first.

Nov 11, 2022 5:11 pm

Nov 11, 2022 5:11 pm

The Approaching Storm

Peaking around the corner, you see a large blur against the stone, scraping as if trying to dig it's way out through stone. It's natural camouflage and large (larger than a man) and reptilian body tell Vargos that it is a marlit, a prized creature hunted by his barbarian clan whenever they can. Even dead, a cape made from its skin and scales maintains some of its adaptive camouflage properties, making it ideal for sneaking and hunting. However, Vargos also knows that they are both forest creatures, not prone to being underground, and pack hunters.

Nov 12, 2022 4:21 pm

Nov 12, 2022 4:21 pm

The Approaching Storm

Vargos pulls back a small bit as he turns to his companions. "Marlit. Strange that it's down here. Unlikely to be alone. It is a great prize to find one. Dangerous alone, but more dangerous when alone and scared, much like a rat. Safer to take it now.

Nov 13, 2022 2:45 am

Nov 13, 2022 2:45 am

The Approaching Storm

"Hear him?" Aolita says quietly to the others, carefully following along behind her protector, torch in one hand and staff in the other. "Arrows first! And be aware there may be more!"

Nov 13, 2022 3:06 pm

Nov 13, 2022 3:06 pm

The Approaching Storm

Turning the corner, you see the marlit, a grey salamander like creature partially blending into the color of the stone. It's scratching at the wall, but the light becoming more bright behind it, the animal turns and hisses.

Archers and other ranged attacks are up first.

Nov 15, 2022 2:30 pm

Nov 15, 2022 2:30 pm

The Approaching Storm

"It's probably losst and scared." She feels pity for the creature; it's not its own fault it's down here. "But now that we've trapped it, I suppose we have no choice. And we wonder why the elves hate us."

But she nocks an arrow anyway, and everything else disappears from her world as she pulls back the bowstring and proceeds to be that which she hates one more time.

Last edited November 15, 2022 2:32 pm

Rolls

Ranged Attack - (d20+1-1, d8+1)

d20+1-1 : (7) = 7

d8+1 : (6) + 1 = 7

Rapid Fire - (d20+1-1, d8+1)

d20+1-1 : (18) = 18

d8+1 : (2) + 1 = 3

Hunter's Instinct rerolls if needed - (d20+1-1, d20+1-1)

d20+1-1 : (18) = 18

d20+1-1 : (11) = 11

Nov 17, 2022 2:10 am

Nov 17, 2022 2:10 am

The Approaching Storm

Vaila's arrows sing in the darkness one hitting and the other missing. The arrow sticks into the creatures shoulder as it prepares to charge.

OOC:

applies the first reroll to the missed attack, but it was also a miss.

Marlit: Defense is +1 (reduces your target number by one); Armor 2 (thick skin); Damage taken: 5 -- Pain threshold must by greater than 5.

Vargos and the Marlit have the same Quick, so next we look at Vigilant. Again, the same, so 1d20 run off. Marlit wins.

The lizard like creature slams into Vargos, its powerful jaws snapping at him. Defense roll at -5 (i.e., roll a 5 or lower) or take 7 damage (reduced by an armor roll, if needed).

Then Vargos, Orlan, and Aolita are all up, followed by Vaila at the top of the next round.

[ +- ] Initiative Order

Rolls

Vargos, Marlit initiative tie breaker - (1d20, 1d20)

1d20 : (5) = 5

1d20 : (13) = 13

Nov 20, 2022 7:29 pm

Nov 20, 2022 7:29 pm

The Approaching Storm

OOC:

Oops, I hadn't noticed that you edited the post!

As the Marlit leaps forward with its vicious fangs snapping, Vargos manages to leap partially out of the way. Instead of a large bite taken out of him, it is instead lines of blood that are drawn through the armored coat he wears. For a moment, crude and vulgar tattoos glow across his flesh, showing that he is no ordinary barbarian; it seems that these runic tattoos helped stop some of the damage.

In turn, he lashes out with his heavy axe. The blow is accurate and heavy, and Vargos knows in that instant that if it lands true it will have dealt a massive wound to the creature.

OOC:

Defense should have been a 5, so a 7 fails. Rolled Armor plus Rune Tattoo, taking one temp corruption.

Last edited November 20, 2022 7:38 pm

Rolls

Defense 10 - (1d20)

(7) = 7

Rune Tattoo - (1d4)

(2) = 2

Ring (Medium) - (1d8)

(1) = 1

Strong 14 (15-1) - (1d20)

(14) = 14

Axe - (1d10)

(9) = 9

Nov 21, 2022 1:41 pm

Nov 21, 2022 1:41 pm

The Approaching Storm

OOC:

7 net damage after its armor, which equals its Pain Threshold. Take a free attack or knock it prone?

Nov 21, 2022 1:49 pm

Nov 21, 2022 1:49 pm

The Approaching Storm

The warrior's axe bites deep into the Marlit, and he can smell the iron in the air as blood leaves its body. He yanks the weapon free and strikes yet again. But the creature, unwilling to be struck twice by the same axe, darts to the side as the blade finds nothing but empty space.

Last edited November 21, 2022 1:49 pm

Rolls

Strong 14 - (1d20)

(17) = 17

Nov 21, 2022 2:20 pm

Nov 21, 2022 2:20 pm

The Approaching Storm

Orlan and Aolita are all up, followed by Vaila at the top of the next round.

Thielindra Inactive for 3 months

Nov 21, 2022 2:28 pm

Nov 21, 2022 2:28 pm

The Approaching Storm

Orlan rushes forward, swinging his giant sword in an arc, attempting to behead the creature. His sword slices deep into the creature’s neck.

Last edited November 21, 2022 2:28 pm

Rolls

Persuasive 13 - (1d20)

(12) = 12

Damage - (1d12)

(2) = 2

Nov 21, 2022 9:33 pm

Nov 21, 2022 9:33 pm

The Approaching Storm

Bringing the fire forward, Aolita yells at the creature before thrusting her torch forward, trying to ward the thing off, to blind, scare, or at least distract it…

OOC:

Not attacking, but aiding in someone’s defense / impairing its ability to bite, claw, or otherwise harm us.

Nov 23, 2022 3:13 am

Nov 23, 2022 3:13 am

The Approaching Storm

Orlan sticks it, but doesn't break through its thick skin. Aolita attempts to distract it. It's fearful of fire, as any animal is, and snaps at the torch then lunges at Vargos the pain-bringer.

Vaila is up, @Falconloft.

Index > Game Forums > From Thistle Hold to Davokar

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Game Details

Characters
- Harrigan
  
  Aolita
- Qralloq
  
  Game Master
- Thielindra
  
  Orlan
- Zagrave
  
  Gristle