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Message #1
IC - Exploration by 293291 Storyteller (GM)
Mon, 04 Sep 2017 12:24:31 GMT
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The mill itself is surrounded by a copse of trees that give shade to it. Lying within a descending valley, the steepness of the inclinde upon which it sits provides a form of defense, as even horses would have trouble descending or ascending to its position. The mill itself is built into a solid rock surface next to the river that cascades down from the highlands above. The river comes directly from the north, while the capitol lies to the northeast, atop a spacious plateau which gives it a nice overview of the kingdom. The mill however, is to the west of the river, making it difficult to get to now that the bridge, which is in a state of disrepair, has collapsed under the weight of the first throng to try and cross it.
Zylphyr is the first to arrive at the mill, and finds that the door contains 3 tumbler locks (Diff: 25), but with some patience (Take 10 on +15 skill), the locks do indeed give way to his manipulation. Within, the building is pitch black, save for what light shines through the newly opened door. The creaking of wood as the wheel spins is blistering loud, covering up the flutter of wings as bats react to the sudden shift in environment from the door opening. Cobwebs cover the surface of everything, and what items there are within this large building, are covered with white cloths and stacked up against various walls. As Zylphyr enters the room, he is able to quickly merge into the shadows (Take 10 = 25 Stealth) before the falling footsteps behind him arrive.
From the shadows, he sees a tiny creature with green hair blot out a part of the doorway, as Xali, the Gnome runs up to the door in a state of panic, her arms filled with scrolls and papers. Frantically, she seeks out a place to hide, but her vision being less useful in these dark confines, takes some time to adjust. She nearly trips over the step at the entrance, where the floor drops down, barely catching herself before deciding to hide behind the turning wheel (Take 10 = 20 Stealth).
Next to arrive at the mill, to find the door open already, is the woodsman, Timothy. Looking within the mill, (Take 10 - Perception 16), he sees that it appears empty within the pitch black darkness, and attempts to head to the one window he could see on his approach. Tripping over the downward step, he barely avoids a twisted ankle as he stumbles in the darkness. He is still fumbling in the darkness when a man-sized rat, walking on two legs steps into the doorway. Jix sees Timothy stumbling about as he enters the mill doorway, as well as a patch of green hair sticking up on the other side of the ever turning wheel in the center of this giant chamber (Take 10 - 22 Perception), and the sound of someone trying to pack the last of her papers into her backpack. Though Timothy can not see the rat-like features of the newcomer, he does sense the sudden darkening of an already dark chamber as Jix blocks half the light coming in through the doorway.
Meanwhile on the outside, Yamari and Scarlett cross the river at the same time, in the same place. Together they look at the mill, then back up at the thundering army above, barely visible against the night sky as the cloud cover overlaps the full moon. Finally they look at each other, a nervous tension building between them when a walking bunny rabbit pulls itself from the river, ears drooping, fur matted, and a pathetically sad look on its face that made both your heart wrench, and laugh in the same breath. As suddenly as it had appeared, the tension disappeared, and the group began helping anyone they could find from the river. Thus it is that the 3 of them pull Kane forward with other soldiers and listen as Kane begins to sing to these fatally wounded. Though they wouldn't live to see the sunlight, they didn't die with dread in their hearts.
Through the night, the 11 survivors are all that remain at the mill. While there had been others, many continued their downhill run, believing the mill to be no safer than any other area, and their fate remain unknown to you. Although tensions did exist as you came together, you've now had time to chat, empathize and even bond with each other. The end result being an agreement that this wrong must be set aright. Evil has not only taken root in this part of the world, it just suffocated the last stronghold of goodness, giving it an uncontested rule over these lands. What goodness may have survived, is now in hiding, and it is up to you, as a group, to turn the tides of this fight.
Fortunately, your assessment of the situation suggests that evil was severely weakened in this lightning like attack upon the kingdom, and with it being weak, you may stand a chance at striking back. But first, comes the matter of survival. The mill, though mundane in nature, is also a highly defendable position. Daylight reveals that not only is there a loft covering half the chamber area, allowing people to be above the concaphony of noise on a balcony-like mezanine, but there is a staircase going down just below the window shared on the side with the door.
Exploration of the lower level reveals the old chambers of the monks that once ran this mill. Three chambers for sleeping in, each holding 4 cots built on sturdy oak, a chamber for the cleaning of cloths, in which the water of the river runs through steel grates, and what isn't used for washing can be used for drinking, or filling a tub within the same room. Slightly further down from the washing area is another chamber intended as a toiletry area, where the water washes away any release as quickly as it appears. There is also much storage area down here.
The ground floor is a wide open area with a mezanine above it. The equipment under the sheets is mostly gardening equipment, and other miscellaneous equipment one might find in a shed. The window above the staircase is barred shut from within, but upon opening, fill the area with enough light to easily see within, though the mesmerating reflection of light in the morning as the sun rises from the east, causes a hypnotic pattern to appear on the far wall and ceiling. Meanwhile, the mezanine itself contains vast amounts of dried hay or grass. Levers along the balcony railing allow the opening of the windows, which are barred tight from within, but which can easily be opened from this vantage point.
From the ground floor, thick heavy doors bar what you assume is a passage deeper into the rock... perhaps a cave system, or perhaps just storage area. Whatever the case, attempts to open these doors has so far proven futile. Perhaps... they are barred from within?
By mid-day you've had a chance to scout the area around the mill. You can barely walk a hundred meters before stumbling over a dead body. Whatever happened out here, past the hilltop, seemed to have destroyed all 3 armies. Their are corpses of all sorts out here... goblinoid, human, dwarves, skeletons... it's a valley of death, covering as far as the eye can see. Smoke continues to rise from the capitol city, several miles to the northeast, and to the southeast there are even more pillars of smoke rising up.
By the end of the day, you return to the mill. None dared to venture too far, for to be trapped in the open against any of the armies would prove fatal, but as you gather food, and prepare meals, the general consensus of the group is that... it's over. Though you've not come across any survivors, you also did not come across any scouts, armies, or sounds that would indicate either. As you sit there, circling around a fire just outside the mill, roasting game that some of you were able to catch, you begin to set plans on what needs to be done, and how it needs to be done.
[OOC: For the most part, you can 'loot' anything you want now. As long as the value is less than 100 gold, anything you want to have, you can have (or have found anyways) earlier this day. Nobody has gone into the capitol city yet, but those that got close saw that the gates had been repaired, albeit haphazardly, and are closed from the inside. ]
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Message #2
IC - Exploration by 293521 Zylphyr
Mon, 04 Sep 2017 13:33:18 GMT
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Zylphyr sat a small distance from the campfire, wrapped in a nice blanket he had found earlier that day, "Anyone know of a way into the capitol, other than the front gate?", he asked into the silence, hoping others knew the city better than he did. "Seems to me that is the place to be, though with those errant knights roaming around, declaring everything as theirs, maybe this mill would be a better start over... I confess, I am at a loss as to what to do here... a part of me wants to run back to my homeland, but somethng needs to be done here... I can not abandon these lands as long as evil runs amok.".
As th discussion continues, Zylphyr finds a way to side with anyone that supports a plan from which the capitol is scouted next, and the mill becomes a base of operations to work from. At a point in which skill sets are asked for, he stats, "I am an elf... my home is outside amongst the trees, but I have had training in trap lore and locksmithing, should such skills be required of me... other than that, I rely on magic from my forebearers to overcome obstacles.", as he demonstrates by having electrical streaks form on and around one hand, and some small rocks hover over his other hand.
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Message #3
IC - Exploration by 293513 Scarlett
Mon, 04 Sep 2017 21:59:34 GMT
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Said simply, Scarlett helped. He helped people get to the mill. He helped them pick up gear that they might need from the battlefield. He helped explore. The Elven young man did it all with as much joy as he could muster in the face of the grim situation.
To an extent he looked like he belonged in the field. Well armed, armored, he could just as easily be a mercenary even though he told everyone who asked that he was simply an entertainer.
After all, no one belonged in this kind of boneyard.
"There will always be ways in and out of a city besides the front gate friend Zylphyr." Scarlett offered when the question came about. "And even a front gate can be reasoned with if it is manned. If you want in some other way, well, it is an issue of finding out who knows that kind of information and asking them nicely to share." He shrugged. "If you have a safe homeland ,and a safe way back to it, there is no harm in it. But I'm with you we should do something here, I'm just not sure what that something is. Or that I'll be any good at it."
He listened to the other young man. "Traps and locks? Sounds dangerous. Family profession? I confess to no skill with those kinds of things myself."
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Message #4
IC - Exploration by 293510 Jix
Mon, 04 Sep 2017 22:14:44 GMT
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Jix helped to, while mourning his alchemy lab of course, but he helped. The ratfolk behaves like someone who is at home in the shadows and naked outside of them. He always makes use of shadows when he can, almost becoming the shadow. He's a likable guy who is always up for some jokes, even if the happiness only stays for a moment.
"There are many ways out and into a city. But most normal human wouldn't even think about them." Jix answered on the Question.
"In my time in the sewers I also learnt to work around traps and locks" Jix grins at Zylphyr. "Also i know how to defend myself with a sword. But mostly I'm an hobby alchemist even if I'm not blessed with magic powers"
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Message #5
IC - Exploration by 293517 Crysila D'Evenant
Tue, 05 Sep 2017 04:27:03 GMT
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Crysila moved into the firelight, coming from where her horse was tied up just outside the mill entrance. She looked at the few people gathered by the campfire and removed her helm, holding it beside her.
"I too should enter the capitol and find out what happened to my charge if anything. However, that is neither here nor there at this point. We...may be able to do some good out here as we are. This place is fairly well protected and not the easiest to find. There are likely survivors, both of the fleeing refugees and those of the town around. As well as bandits, small scattered orc or goblin bands, and clumps of aimless undead of course."
Her attention turned to Zylphyr, "Any one of which would make leaving here alone to return somewhere an extremely dangerous proposition."
She looked over her shoulder in the direction of the city, "Normally if they wouldn't open the front gates I could likely go over the wall easily. But with that..." she motions over to the town as if by way of explanation, "Getting caught in any illegal entry will likely end with the attemptee feathered with bolts and arrows."
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Message #6
IC - Exploration by 293514 Yamari
Tue, 05 Sep 2017 05:24:39 GMT
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"The trouble is not knowing who or what won the battle."
Yamari opines, his voice belying some of his elven traits by coming out in a solid baritone rather than a higher note; tracing his hands over his food in a pattern that seems ritualized.
"By light of your Sun, may the imperfections of mortal hands flee, Empress of Heaven."
Definitely a ritual, maybe even a spell. A subtle one if it is, since it didn't seem to do anything. The water in cups and skins is perhaps a bit clearer, but its dark enough that it could just be the lack of light.
"I think not the undead, as the bodies have yet to rise up on their own... speaking of which, we must begin burying them. We should seek out refugees as well, our good fortune must be shared. The large storage area can be converted into temporary housing once we fill up all the beds."
The unique-looking man leans back from his food, straightening his back and looking in the direction of the city, lost to the shrouds of night, "If it is not the undead who were victorious, whoever now holds the city we can at least try to speak to. Even orcs will talk if they already have everything they want. We should open a dialogue as soon as we discover who and what they are."
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Message #7
IC - Exploration by 293928 Timothy
Tue, 05 Sep 2017 09:56:10 GMT
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Timothy had been startled that there had been so many in the mill, but soon overtime he relaxed and sort accepted other survivors (at least not think them as dangerous). In next day he wandered around; checking bodies, the city and placing traps for game for tomorrow check up. As he returned camp he brought lots various things; clothes, small weapons, pieces of armor, tools, food and drink where he found any.
He also had brought a stag which he is now preparing on the fire, applying spices which he had found from a chef's bag which he had found. Experiment with them bit. He listens quietly others talk but he speaks only when Crysila spoke of bandits; "Many bandits were killed during the attack, lots of them were waiting outside the city when undead appeared but got caught off guard by orcs and then following conqueror's army.
I disagree in notion open the talks; whoever won and now rules city, will not likely tolerate survivors from last night attack. Better we stay hidden, unseen and not known. We can pick up survivors if any found outside city, but any we bring over must understand remain hidden and hiding best as they can.
We need learn more who rules city now, is it orcs, remains of conqueror's army or group similar to like ours; survivors. But even if they are survivors they may not welcome us in; supplies will be thin and high demand in city if they have started ration it properly. In worst case scenario it's conqueror's army remains who then hunt down any survivors, kill them on sight as they had no trouble butchering innocents and bystanders on hills over there.
Orcs would not tolerate humans in their turf unless they are slave and undead....well, they do not care really and seek kill us as commanded by their lich sorcerer."
Timothy carves piece of the stag and taking bite from it, after swallowing he adds as he looks others and observe their reaction to his revelation; "My own skills I could lie I am huntsman, it's close to truth anyways. But truth is I am bandit and been one for years now. In my group we did not hunt nor rob anyone who was poor or refugee, but survivors can quickly become bandit groups.
I have seen it happen often in my life when people who are no longer cared nor ruled by anyone, facing starvation or death, very easily turn upon each other violent manner and start rob as means to survive. Only reason why we did not rob poor because my group members were from poor backgrounds and we did well ourselves with no need rob ashes from the oven from the poor."
As Timothy starts discuss in detail alternative routes into city, he suddenly halts and looks around into trees and bushes and says; "We are being encircled by something! Prepare yourselves!" Timothy moves grab on his bow and draw arrow from his quiver.....
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Message #8
IC - Exploration by 293521 Zylphyr
Wed, 06 Sep 2017 07:33:40 GMT
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Zylphyr ducked into the shadows, putting quiet distance between himself and the group. If whomever was encircling was going to attack, he wanted to make sure that he could flank the flankers in the process. Stealthily(25) he did his best to maneuver out of the way of any attempting to charge the rest of the group.
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Message #9
IC - Exploration by 293510 Jix
Tue, 05 Sep 2017 14:38:05 GMT
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Jix also rolled into the nearest shadow and tries to set up an ambush whomever encircled them if they aren't friendly.Stealth: 30 (take ten) Also Jix readies his sword.
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Message #10
IC - Exploration by 293516 Xali (editor)
Tue, 05 Sep 2017 18:15:29 GMT
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Xali had kept to herself for the most part, choosing to focus on the books she'd grabbed and shutting out the memories from the last day. Occasionally she'd turn a page and find a note jotted in a margin in a friend's handwriting, or come across a passage that stirred up her memories and would burst into silent sobbing.
She wasn't sure how the others seemed to be coping with this so well, maybe they didn't lose anybody, or maybe these were people who'd already been stricken emotionally dead inside. Xali convinced herself that it was a combination of the two and prayed that no one would decide to turn on her, as she wouldn't be able to defend herself if they did. She listened to their ideas about retaking the city, not sure how that would actually help anything, but she knew that her best option now was to keep quiet and get overlooked.
She jotted down the occasional note as everyone talked, not sure if it would help piping up and correcting the odd error here or there when she heard something in the distance. Figuring that whatever it was, it was best she put these giant strapping people between her and it, she hopped up from her seat and moved closer to the fire, putting her back to it.
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Message #11
IC - Exploration by 293513 Scarlett
Tue, 05 Sep 2017 18:22:24 GMT
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Many good ideas were going around and he was ready to add in his two copper's worth, including some fresh suggestions about how to get into town. Timothy was working with spices on stag in a way that made him grateful to have the man around. It was easy to be lulled into feeling good, campfire going, food smells.
The warning came from the cook. Scarlett reached for shield and blade "He's right! Be ready." For many of the new friends apparently ready meant find a hiding place. He was surrounded by people who were full of good ideas, including not standing quite so open when being attacked by a mob.
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Message #12
IC - Exploration by 293514 Yamari
Wed, 06 Sep 2017 06:19:41 GMT
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Having made his opinion known, Yamari sips some water while the others get their chance to put their own two cents in, waiting a little bit longer before bringing the matter up again and addressing concerns and arguments; but the shifting malicious movements beyond the flickering firelight and his own more-than-human eyes will brook no such delay.
Reaching over one shoulder, he pulls his bow out as he moves away from the fire, trying to keep from silhouetting himself as a perfect target for any ranged attacks that are forthcoming and sends an arrow winging out into the night at the closest shape if he has time to do so.
[If a surprise round limited to one action; move action to move away from the fire, combining with 'draw a weapon' because my BAB is +1 or greater to draw my bow. If I have more actions, after those I'll swift to use Fervor to cast Divine Favor, then standard action to shoot an arrow at the closest target. I'll use deadly aim, adjust numbers by +1 hit and damage if the target is within 30']
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Message #13
IC - Exploration by 293291 Storyteller (GM)
Wed, 06 Sep 2017 08:33:52 GMT
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With the exception of Crysila, who seems completely unaware of the rambled on about how best to take the city, the others all seemed aware of the impending attack. Hands reach for weapons, shadows seem to envelop both Zylphyr and Jix, as some slid down for cover behind whatever they were sitting on or with.
From the treeline, the shadows merge into figures, covered with green skin, and with tusk like teeth. You barely have time to register "Orcs!" before they raise their Falchions and charge headfirst towards your group in an attempt to take you by surprise. You are completely surrounded, and the campfire is too dimmed to provide any help in this situation.
Roll Initiative (or Take 10), see Game Map, and declare actions please.
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Message #14
IC - Exploration by 293510 Jix
Wed, 06 Sep 2017 08:51:04 GMT
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Jix attempts to ambush the orc as he is running by his hiding place, jumping him while he runs by.
(16 init): He hits the orc on the side (Nat 20), disorienting (Debilitating Injury, 16 dmg) him and waits for the counter attack.
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Message #15
IC - Exploration by 293521 Zylphyr
Wed, 06 Sep 2017 11:34:24 GMT
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(14 Init): Zylphyr waited, watching the figures emerge from the darkness, his eyes focused on the deeper shadows in case there would be a second wave coming after the initial one. Holding his position as silently as possible, he waited until the closest orc... the one to his left were he directly facing the fire, was within range, before letting loose (18 hit) with a bolt of electrical power (8 dmg). He then dove back into the treeline, hoping to remain unseen and be able to send another volley into another orc a moment later.
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Message #16
IC - Exploration by 293688 Tessa
Wed, 06 Sep 2017 13:42:59 GMT
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It wasn't the easiest time for Tessa, so shortly after losing her home. For the most part the bunny girl stayed rather silent, not talking much and not doing much. As they looked around the mill and looted what they could use from the unlucky dead ones, she had gathered a number of arrows, both with blunt and sharp heads, but other than that simply tried to help, doing the best as she can. And even though she didn't talk, she did seem to agree with the plan the others had.
(15 Init): Just then her bunny ears flicked up and turned around, and with a swift motion she stood up, looking around and seeing that they were surrounded. Quickly she placed an arrow in her bow and focused her arcane magic into it,which made the arrow glow white faintly, before she let loose and shot the nearest orc. (19 hit) The arrow left an icy trail behind it as it traveled and struck one of the orcs. (5 Dmg Piercing, 3 Dmg Cold)
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Message #17
IC - Exploration by 293513 Scarlett
Wed, 06 Sep 2017 17:40:24 GMT
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Scarlett did a quick look across his new companions. He did not know all of their races well. Those that he knew could not all see in the dark. Against orcs this could be a problem. Against his better judgement - well that wasn't fair - against a lifetime of training that was being squandered according to some people in his life - he opted for adding some light to the situation.
(Init 13)The blade in his hand described a small arc in the air, his voice rose and fell with the arc "Faina". Four lights about the size of torches sprang up around Scarlett along cardinal orientations, 10 feet away. Cast Dancing Lights
It was possibly sexist and stupid, but Scarlett stepped forward to be in front of Tessa and put them roughly 'back to back' to prevent any easy close surrounding actions by the orcs.
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Message #18
IC - Exploration by 293514 Yamari
Wed, 06 Sep 2017 20:34:51 GMT
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(Init 16) "Shizuru!" A single word, a name and rally to battle, an incantation of power to infuse Yamari with the grace and strength of his Goddess, sending an arrow at the northernmost foe of the group to the southwest (18 hits), striking true but not as deep as it could have (6 damage, +1 if within 30').
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Message #19
IC - Exploration by 293558 Kane
Thur, 07 Sep 2017 13:24:48 GMT
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Init: 10
Kane smirks as he slowly prowls towards the nearest Orc, his form morphing as he gets closer, his slow steps speaking of a focus upon something, as he moves like a big cat stalking it's prey.
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Message #20
IC - Exploration by 293928 Timothy
Thur, 07 Sep 2017 14:10:57 GMT
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Init: 16 (+4 base, +2 while forests)
Timothy saw they are surrounded by orcs, seeing others prepare for fight and others who slipped into shadows already strike on enemies. On Timothy's feet a white misty mist starts emerge, conceal him entirely and brush of a wind mist disperses....and he's gone?
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Message #21
IC - Exploration by 293291 Storyteller (GM)
Thur, 07 Sep 2017 15:31:12 GMT
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In rapid succession, before the orcs had even begun their charge, 4 of them fell to the assaults of the assembled heroes. With a sudden dash from the shadows, Jix planted his blade deep within the bowels of the first orc, who fell in shock as he tried to realize what just happened. Almost as quickly an electric blast comes from the treeline frying another, whose raised blade acted more as a lightning rod, than as a symbol of intimidation.
The sole survivor of the trio spun around at the sight of his fellows falling, and seeing only Jix, charged forward at his friend's assailant, swinging with a two-handed grip, though in vain as Jix easily dodged beneath the attack.
In unison, Yamari and Tessa released their ranged assault, and again 2 more of the orc hoard dropped, with a look of shock on their face. What was supposed to be an ambush, turned out to be exactly that... an ambush, but only it was they the orcs who seemed prey.
More orcs charged out of the eastern treeline, into the suddenly expanding arms of a man turned beast! The mixture of surprise, fear and intimidation caused one of the orcs to drop his blade and drop to his knees while the other two practically tripped over him, swinging wildly in Kane's direction.
To the southeast, 3 orcs carefully planned their charge against one of the human types, and as they charged forward, the figure dissipated into nothingness as Timothy slipped into a cloak of invisibility and easily side-stepped the charge, getting a position behind the chargers. Realizing their target had disappeared, they roared out in rage, and choose to press their charge forward in Scarlett's direction.
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Message #22
IC - Exploration by 293521 Zylphyr
Thur, 07 Sep 2017 17:12:32 GMT
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(init 14) Zylphyr appeared from the shdows, running in the direction of Scarlett as he blasted (18) the orc to the southwest (10) yelling, "This isnt even the first wave, this is just a scouting party! We need to get back to the mill!"
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Message #23
IC - Exploration by 293513 Scarlett
Thur, 07 Sep 2017 19:26:45 GMT
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(Init 13) There was never any real order to these things. But patterns emerge from chaos if you look and listen. Especially to new friends.
He had only a little magic available but there was no point in dying with magic still running through your veins. Scarlett made a few small practiced steps that brought him around full circle even as the blade moved as if chopping through a cord. "Miril-astro" Again he sang the phrase and sparkling bright motes of metal dust fell out across the three charging orcs. Glitterdust, DC Will 16 save vs Blinded, -40 Penalty to stealth (no save on that)
"Come friends, let us away. This is a moving fight. To the Mill!" He began moving around the empty side of the fire to start the orderly retreat to The Mill.
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Message #24
IC - Exploration by 293510 Jix
Thur, 07 Sep 2017 20:24:11 GMT
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ini 16
Jix swings at the enemy (17) an striking him down (8).
Then he looks further in the dark to see if there are other orks coming.(16)
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Message #25
Re: IC - Exploration by 293514 Yamari
Fri, 08 Sep 2017 05:15:27 GMT
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(Init 16) Raising an arrow to fletch, staring down its length at the vicious enemy, Yamari pulls back a mighty draw and attempts to intercept one of the attackers as they close with an ally; the arrow does not hold steady in his hand and instead drops to his feet right before he would loose it. (Natural 1) He doesn't waste breath on cursing, but instead bends down to pick up the arrow, taking a single step northwards towards the Mill as calls for the retreat spring up around him.
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Message #26
Re: IC - Exploration by 293688 Tessa
Fri, 08 Sep 2017 10:22:59 GMT
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(Init 15): Tessa was kind of glad to see a melee combatant step up in front of her to give her cover. The advancing orcs were rather quickly struck down, which in turn must mean that they were either some scouts, or already weakened by the fight in the city.
Swiftly Tessa drew another arrow and did the same as before, firing an arrow together with a frost ray at the orcs that were advancing towards Scarlett, trying to take at least one of them out before they would reach her protector, not knowing that he would cast a spell on them. (15 to hit, 6 bow damage, 1 ice ray damage) After that she would move along with Scarlett to keep close to him, though now that she moved, it seemed that her whole body and all of her movement was concealed by a blur. (20% miss chance. Only lasts till it's Tessa's turn again.)
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Message #27
Re: IC - Exploration by 293928 Timothy
Fri, 08 Sep 2017 13:08:48 GMT
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(Ini 16)
Timothy had step behind the orcs who charged past him, seeing others how rapidly they fell these orcs he has to agree that this must be a scout party or just left overs from last night battle and still weakened from past injuries. None the less he did not want play second to rest of team, so he fires a shot with his bow onto one orcs near Scarlet (hit 26 flat-foot AC, doing 14pts dmg), instant he did it he with short step moved to hide nearby bush (stealth 11) and cover himself from being spotted by orcs if he can help it.
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Message #28
Re: IC - Exploration by 293516 Xali (editor)
Fri, 08 Sep 2017 13:32:08 GMT
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(Init 20)
Xali kept her back to the fire, not sure of what to do. The orcs that had appeared look familiar, but she couldn't place them. (know:local 7) Her mind went to Rondo, he would have known more about these creatures. With a shake of her head she realized she had to do something, she couldn't just sit back and do nothing. She pulled her crossbow up and pointed it in the direction of a trio of orcs to the south, hoping she'd hit, but more hoping they wouldn't retaliate whatever the outcome. She let out a short shriek as one of them snarled in her direction, causing her to shudder just as she loosed the bolt. (11 to hit, 6 dam)
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Message #29
Re: IC - Exploration by 293517 Crysila D'Evenant
Fri, 08 Sep 2017 13:45:33 GMT
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(Init 12)
Crysila finally had a chance to react to the chaos springing up around her, a bit dull from the non-stop fighting earlier she nevertheless sprang into action. Moving to the east and the three orcs surrounding Kane she suddenly set her glaive and vaulted off the ground(32 Acrobatics), snapping the end up into a spin as she attempts to avoid any slices her sudden airborne movement might incur (30 Acrobatics). Straight up into the air she goes, above one of the brutish orcs and then slams downwards, her glaive threatening to split the orc in two as it sweeps in a powerful, clean arc, driven by the momentum of the young woman all but throwing herself recklessly at the ground (17 to hit for 34 damage.) .
"If we are to retreat, let us do so as one. Those with ranged attacks, make sure any greenskins do not get behind us! We don't know how many there are, so let us fight a slow retreat to the mill to thin their numbers, as not to get overwhelmed!"
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Message #30
Re: IC - Exploration by 293558 Kane
Sat, 09 Sep 2017 00:50:56 GMT
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(Init: 10)
Grinning at the trio of Orcs, Kane brings down his claws, as they sink in to the two orcs on the sides , though he cant quite lean down enough to get at the orc right in front of him, snapping at the air above the orc.
(14 and 21, dealing 6 Slashing and 6 Cold damage to the one on my left (12 total))
(Miss middle, 7)
(14 and 16 on the third one, dealing 9 Piercing and 8 cold damage (17 total))
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Message #31
Re: IC - Exploration by 293291 Storyteller (GM)
Sat, 09 Sep 2017 07:27:10 GMT
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With a wild, nearly super-human leap, Crysila the female warrior, leaps so high into the air that she is literally over the heads of those between her and her prey. With a downward strike, she makes a kebab of a rather surprised Orc who thought Kane was the threat. Kane meanwhile tears into one of the orcs with his claws, dragging the kebab'd orc into a bear hug with the other orc in a bearhug that crushes them both. This distraction gives the one Kane tried to bite a chance to bring down his weapon in a two-handed cleaving motion (23), tearing into the larger figure (22 dmg) with his falchion blade.
Zylphyr's fair warning as he lightning strikes yet another of the charging orcs allows the group to make a retreat around the fire. In the distance can be heard a loud barking order in an unknown language, followed by the yipping and howling of the now-familiar orcan hoardes.
The trio of orcs to the south cancel their charge as they all become blinded by a glowing metallic looking dust which suddenly permeates the air, and covers them in radiant energy. Timothy and Tessa quickly take out two of the blinded orcs before Timothy trips backwards into some bushes, making quite the racket in doing so. Behind him, the grunting pants of a Warg can be heard charging towards the bush.
Jix takes a moment after killing the last of the northern orcs to look deeper into the shadows, and from the shadows he sees the silhouette of an army through the reflection of moonlight being cast from their armour and weapons deep within the treeline.
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Message #32
Re: IC - Exploration by 293928 Timothy
Sat, 09 Sep 2017 10:32:37 GMT
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(16 Ini)Timothy tries sharpen his hearing upon hearing the alien sounding orders (perception 26), as Timothy has actually studied and learned orcish language from his fellow bandits as small groups of orcs have always been common in the woods throughout the ages and some bandits even dared trade with them.
However, upon hearing the panting barks of warg near behind him made Timothy decide that even if he was skilled woodsman and could hide easily in woods, he has no tricks to fool warg's scent detecting noses! So he rushes out from the bush, moving towards the others as he points to behind him and says; "Wargs coming, better start running faster folks!"
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Message #33
Re: IC - Exploration by 293513 Scarlett
Sat, 09 Sep 2017 18:14:36 GMT
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(Init 13)"Those orcs have been blinded. This seems to be the moment to gain some ground to The Mill." Scarlett matched actions to words. He stuck with the weapons and hand and did nothing but move. It wasn't the mindless dashing of someone without any experience. Nor was it the high flying leaping attacks one of their friends just demonstrated. He appreciated a good performance as much as the next man. Maybe more. But sometimes all you needed to do was drop one foot in front of the other and pay attention to where you are going. To aid with seeing, he made sure that the dancing torches came along with him and them.Spending both actions to Move 30 up the map. I think Dancing Lights move for free. 19 Perception
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Message #34
Re: IC - Exploration by 293558 Kane
Sat, 09 Sep 2017 21:10:37 GMT
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(Init 16)
(2 hits, 14 and 16, 1,5,2,6, 3 Piercing, 4 Slashing, 11 cold damage, 18 total, step towards the mill)
"You die. NOW!" he gives off a roar, giving a few slashes forcing the Orc to move around, as a heavy blow connects, staggering him to open him to a bite to the shoulder, as frost spreads upon his body and inside the wounds, tearing them as it does much more damage than the somewhat sloppy swings.
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Message #35
Re: IC - Exploration by 293514 Yamari
Sun, 10 Sep 2017 03:54:03 GMT
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(Init 16)
(Move 30' diagonally NE, Ready for reinforcements or pursuit getting to melee range)
Nodding grimly at the exhortations and violent dispatch of the foe by the more physically adept of the group, Yamari lifts his bow up slight, moving to the north east thirty feet diagonally while keeping an eye out for new arrivals, sending an arrow out (24 hit, 9 damage)should any new foes appear or one of the remaining ones get close enough to swing a sword at someone they are not already engaged with.
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Message #36
Re: IC - Exploration by 293510 Jix
Sun, 10 Sep 2017 10:32:50 GMT
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(Ini 16)
Jix will sneak (31) towards the mill and keep the way free for the rest of the group.
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Message #37
Re: IC - Exploration by 293688 Tessa
Sun, 10 Sep 2017 11:08:20 GMT
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(Init 15): Tessa couldn't help but feel a little bit statisfied as one after one the orcs went down, but as she heard about wargs coming, she instinctively knew that those were bad news. As such she was fine with retreating, following after Scarlett to have some more protection. Interestingly, right now her movements were not concealed by a blur anymore.
(Double-30ft-move, Low-Light-Vision.)
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Message #38
Re: IC - Exploration by 293517 Crysila D'Evenant
Sun, 10 Sep 2017 21:02:33 GMT
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(Init 12)
Crysila hefts her glaive and starts to move after the retreating party. (Double move towards the others retreat)
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Message #39
Re: IC - Exploration by 293521 Zylphyr
Mon, 11 Sep 2017 05:38:44 GMT
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Zylphyr continues his mad dash towards the mill, looking over his shoulder for any potential threats that may interfere with his ability to reach the mill, particularly the familiar, though silent, sounds of arrows arcing through the sky towards them.
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Message #40
Re: IC - Exploration by 293291 Storyteller (GM)
Mon, 11 Sep 2017 08:42:32 GMT
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Kane quickly shreds the remaining orc amongst those that had attacked him, receiving his revenge for the near-fatal wound he'd received seconds before. Together, the group regroups towards the mill, with the exception of Xali who seems frozen in a state of shock as the events unfold. Although the growls of the Worgs can be heard in the distance, none are yet visible, allowing Yamari a chance to plant an arrow in the head of a blinded orc.
The other two orcs seem to be shaking off the effects, and through blurred vision, have turned in the direction of those fleeing when suddenly, the frightful visage of the Worgs breaks the southern treeline. Upon their backs are the tougher cousins of the orcs you've been battling, these are Black Orcs, barbarians of the southern lands which make the green orcs seem civilized by comparison. They are charging in your direction at full speed (120'), intent on stopping you from reaching the relative safety of the mill.
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Message #41
Re: IC - Exploration by 293521 Zylphyr
Mon, 11 Sep 2017 14:00:01 GMT
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(Init 14) In hopes that it provides some time and distance for the stragglers to get to cover, Zylphyr fires a long shot (18) at one of the wargs, hoping to disable it (12 dmg) right away, and reduce the time required to cover the ground to them. "Take out the Wargs, not the Orcs!", he calls out to anyone else who might be willing to do the same. "BTW, now would be the time for any wizards in the group to do their thing...", he added, as he made his way around the corner of the mill.
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Message #42
Re: IC - Exploration by 293516 Xali (editor)
Mon, 11 Sep 2017 14:03:00 GMT
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(Init 20)
Xali didn't like to see how all the strong folk were turning tail, partly because she didn't like knowing they didn't think they could hold their own, but more because she knew her little legs wouldn't keep up with theirs. Glancing over her shoulder at the beasts running towards them now, she seemed to remember a thing or two about them (Know 18), but instead of saying anything she simply ran. (Move: 40')
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Message #43
Re: IC - Exploration by 293928 Timothy
Mon, 11 Sep 2017 14:36:37 GMT
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(Init 16)
Timothy continues on running, he could move and stay to make a shot but there are not just one but four worgs and four fierce orcs mounted atop them! So he definitely is not going staying behind firing shots on worgs and instead keeps running towards the mill fast as his feet allow him to!
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Message #44
Re: IC - Exploration by 293514 Yamari
Mon, 11 Sep 2017 15:03:07 GMT
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(Init ??; just before the Orcs)
"They will be blinded by the Light!" Yamari promises as he continues to move towards the front entrance of the Mill, shifting his bow to being held in one hand and raising his free hand as though to ward off the approaching warg-riders. An explosion of golden light and dust envelops them once they are a few seconds seconds away, covering both beasts and riders in a softly glowing haze.
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Message #45
Re: IC - Exploration by 293688 Tessa
Mon, 11 Sep 2017 15:41:48 GMT
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(Init 15): Tessa definitly knew that she did not want to stay and wait, but they wouldn't be able to outrun those big creatures. through the dim light she could only partially see the enemies, and she thought that they were out of range for her arrows anyway, so instead she gripped her bow a bit tighter and aimed at one of the wargs, concentrating and whispering words of arcane, as two magical bolts appeared at the bow. With a swift pull of the string, those bolts darted forward and striked into the warg. (Magic Missile, 5 damage) After her little magical shot, Tessa nevertheless turned and moved further away. (Move 30 ft)
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Message #46
Re: IC - Exploration by 293510 Jix
Mon, 11 Sep 2017 15:56:31 GMT
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(Ini16) Jix sees the wargs and the running group and decides that someone has to open the door. So he runs towards the door hoping to open it before everyone was standing in front of it (Double move 40')
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Message #47
Re: IC - Exploration by 293558 Kane
Mon, 11 Sep 2017 17:15:34 GMT
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(Init 16)
Kane makes his way towards the mill, pulling magical motes around himself as they swirl around the slash, undoing some of the damage.
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Message #48
Re: IC - Exploration by 293517 Crysila D'Evenant
Mon, 11 Sep 2017 21:47:05 GMT
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(Init 12)
Crysila realizes her horse is tied up outside the mill, so she sprints forward in a straight line, putting her athleticism to the test to get ahead of the others.
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Message #49
Re: IC - Exploration by 293291 Storyteller (GM)
Tue, 12 Sep 2017 12:20:35 GMT
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Zylphyr releases a jolt of electrical power across the field, causing himself some drain (4hp non-lethal) in the process, but the effect is satisfactory as the worg stumbles in mid-stride, sending his rider flying across the battlefield. Though Tessa tried to duplicate the effect, the Worg seems to barely notice the missile that buried itself into his thick fur.
With the exception of the orc sprawled in a prone position on the ground with his mount, the rest of the riders come charging across the battlefield, their breaths warm down your necks as you flee from before them. Timing it perfectly, Yamari releases a cloud of glitter dust into the eyes of two riders and mount, blinding them temporarily.
Jix is able to get the door open as Crysallis comes leaping across the field, having to slow for the others that are also fleeing the field. Her horse seems to have disappeared though, in the quick moment that she is able to look, no horse is to be found outside the building.
Together, Xali, Kane and Scarlett find themselves just a little too distant from the mill to reach cover in time from the remaining and non-blinded Worg and Rider.
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Message #50
Re: IC - Exploration by 293521 Zylphyr
Tue, 12 Sep 2017 15:09:34 GMT
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"WAIT!", Zylphyr called out, "It's a funnel! We can hold this point without letting them pass, let's hold our ground here, force them to fight us in tight numbers!", he continued as he channeled energy to prepare for his next bolt of raw lightning, "Better to fight, than risk them burning us alive within the Mill...", he said more softly.
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Message #51
Re: IC - Exploration by 293513 Scarlett
Tue, 12 Sep 2017 15:26:42 GMT
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Calculation. You had to do it on the move. There was never time to just stop and ponder it. It all had to be done on the fly, moment's notice, lifetime of practice. The improvisation of dance, the chaos of combat, all took fast decisions.
And in this case teamwork.
He looked at the two friends who were with him. "Keep moving. We have plenty of ranged support!" Of course, he wasn't a fool about this either. They were far enough away he could do this right now. He sang a snatch of song that started strong and then faded out as if you couldn't quite hear it correctly. "Ani-valk" And then he continued towards the relative safety of his faster companions.
Init 13, Cast Blur, then move 30
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Message #52
Re: IC - Exploration by 293928 Timothy
Tue, 12 Sep 2017 18:31:55 GMT
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Timothy was on the balcony and near entrance to the mill, but Zylphyr's words make sense and he looks on Crysila and says; "If think you can hold your position there and wait for everyone get in here, I provide cover fire." Timothy holds his bow ready and waits for Crysila's reply....
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Message #53
Re: IC - Exploration by 293517 Crysila D'Evenant
Wed, 13 Sep 2017 01:19:07 GMT
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(Init 12, Total Defense)
Crysila gave her glaive a whirl and smiled at the others, taking up a defensive stance and blocking the doorway for any enemies.
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Message #54
Re: IC - Exploration by 293514 Yamari
Wed, 13 Sep 2017 04:37:35 GMT
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(Init ??)
Finding himself one of the slower ranged combatants to acquit the field, Yamari picks up his pace, focusing almost solely on getting to and inside the Mill before the vanguard is compromised by their admirable defense of his position. "Archers, with me, to the windows! We can strike from a raised position!"
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Message #55
Re: IC - Exploration by 293928 Timothy
Wed, 13 Sep 2017 06:35:54 GMT
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(Ini 16>12)Timothy nods for Crysila's resolve and on hearing Yamari's command he replies; "Go inside, I come in once it starts feel too dangerous to be out and benefit from wider shooting angle." Timothy then aims to one blinded worgs, intending injure it before it can recover and exploit it's vulrenable state. Timothy spends moment aiming and studying for his target, then with soft twang his bowstring sings as he lauches arrow towards the nearest blinded worg (ranged hit 14 vs flat-footed AC, 22pts dmg).
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Message #56
Re: IC - Exploration by 293291 Storyteller (GM)
Wed, 13 Sep 2017 12:31:36 GMT
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Far to the south, beyond the vision of those present, a Worg became quite enraged at the Orc Rider that had gone flying, most likely having assumed that the Orc was the cause for the electrical pain it had felt in its chest. Seeing the Orc lying prone, he wasted no time pouncing onto the Orc, and the two became twisted in a battle to the death. The other worgs proved more interesting, though blinded, they had their sense of smell, and honed in on the fleeing members of the party.
The one worg who still maintained its sight, ignored the minor bite-sized gnome that was able to duck under the legs (CM: Overrun), attempting to engage with Crysila, though fumbling over Xali, knocking her Prone in the process (To hit: 1 and 1). So badly did they tumble, that despite being in a defensive stance, Crysila was able to brace for impact, and impale them both (17, 27) on her large glaive (9 dmg each). Meanwhile Zylphyr is able to shock the same Worg with a lightning blast (6 hp) as Timothy lets fly an arrow, but it goes wide, missing the intended target.
The blind Worgs and their Riders are unable to make contact, despite an olfactory advantage, and whiff their attacks upon Scarlett and Kane.
In the distance can be heard the stomping of many feet as what you assume are the rest of the orcs, come charging across the field where you were eating dinner only moments earlier.
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Message #57
Re: IC - Exploration by 293516 Xali (editor)
Wed, 13 Sep 2017 13:04:42 GMT
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Xali found herself on her back, her instinct told her to move up against the wall, but she was afraid the movement might draw the beast's attention. The big people seemed to be holding their own from her perspective though, she watched as the Worgs gnashed at their intended prey, and suddenly something occurred to her. She had a memory of trying to bind her first few books and how much trouble it had been, up until Tullyrooks, an old friend, had decided to give her some advice. She could hardly hold her own in a fight, but maybe her advice would prove useful here. "Their eyes, if you watch their eyes you'll see where they're going to bite, they always look just to the left of where they're going to bite!" She wasn't sure if what she said would be heard over the din of battle, but hopefully it would help.
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Message #58
Re: IC - Exploration by 293521 Zylphyr
Wed, 13 Sep 2017 15:42:14 GMT
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Seeing that Xali was in danger, perhaps unaware of the Orc bearing down on her, Zylphyr focused his next discharge (18) against the Orc nearest her in hopes of killing it (9 dmg) before it had a chance to do any real harm to the poor gnome. "Get out of there kid, before you get yourself killed.", he muttered more to himself than to the gnome.
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Message #59
Re: IC - Exploration by 293928 Timothy
Wed, 13 Sep 2017 15:55:25 GMT
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(Ini 16)Timothy was already committed on the task eliminating the worg, albeit blinded, was elusive to hit thanks chaos of the close combat. However Xali's advice's did help him figure out observe worg's movements more carefully as he aimed once again and fired a shot on the worg (17 vs flat-footed AC, 15pts dmg).
Albeit he saw the approaching large number of orcs, he only took short step backwards (5'ft move backwards) as he prepares fire another arrow.
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Message #60
Re: IC - Exploration by 293513 Scarlett
Wed, 13 Sep 2017 20:33:20 GMT
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There was nothing left to do but hold fast for just a moment and give his companions time to wreck ruin on their combined enemies. "Keep moving friends, we cannot afford to be bogged down here!" He was by no means a death dealer. But there were times, there were times when you needed to be capable. This was one of those times. The finely crafted blade, part of the physical gifts from his mother, lashed out at the beast in front of him.
(17 to hit, 4 damage)
He checked the progress of his companions to see if it was safe to move. (Move; At least 5 foot step back towards the mill. If it is clear enough to move 30 he'll do that
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Message #61
Re: IC - Exploration by 293517 Crysila D'Evenant
Thur, 14 Sep 2017 03:13:08 GMT
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(Init 12)
So many orcs! Crysila gritted her teeth and swung her glaive clumsily. Far too clumsily to strike effectively she did however maintain a slightly defensive posture, keeping the door blocked as long as she could. "Damn orcs, what could be driving them here anyway." (7 to hit)
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Message #62
IC - Exploration by 293514 Yamari
Thur, 14 Sep 2017 05:41:31 GMT
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(Init 13)
With a glance over his shoulder to make sure he isn't passing up a good shot, Yamari proceeds deeper into the mill, up onto the mezzanine and thus to the balcony with the levers that control the windows; flipping at least one and more if he can into an open position and preparing to rain wooden death from inside the building.
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Message #63
IC - Exploration by 293510 Jix
Thur, 14 Sep 2017 07:07:39 GMT
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(Ini 16) Jix curses himself for not taking the shortbow from the body he found earlier this day. He moves into the first line of the defense, hitting (13) the warg and wounding him (10dmg).
"We can hold here for a bit but there is an hole army approaching us"
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Message #64
IC - Exploration by 293291 Storyteller (GM)
Thur, 14 Sep 2017 12:11:03 GMT
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Although Zylphyr is able to send one Orc raider into its death throes, the other Orc makes quick work of Xali (CM: 14 vs CMD: 13), grabbing her up and using her as a shield as he backs away from the combat.
Meanwhile, the combined efforts of Crysila and Jix cause grave harm to the most ferocious of the Worgs (7,4), while the other two try to tear into Scarlett and Kane despite being blinded. The worg battling Scarlett finds itself impaled upon Scarlett's blade (11,13) as the one battling Kane (26,13) gets the upper hand suddenly, biting into Kane's arm (hit: 22) causing a small amount of damage (dmg: 8).
In quick retaliation, Timothy's arrow strikes true, impaling itself upon the same worg battling Kane (11, 13). Meanwhile Yamari, gets up to the mezzanine, and pulls the lever which causes the wooden planks securing the windows to rise up into a horizontal position outward.
Meanwhile, to the south the hoarde continues to press northward, roaring a loud battlecry as they bear down upon your group.
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Message #65
IC - Exploration by 293516 Xali (editor)
Thur, 14 Sep 2017 13:11:07 GMT
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(Ini 20)
Fear coursed through her body as the orc grabbed her, she squirmed to get away, but it proved futile. She thought about biting his arm, close to her mouth like it was, but knew there was equal chances he'd make her regret it tenfold. Instead she made a small prayer that pleading for her life might work. Her small hand wriggled into her pocket and she gesticulated while gripping a bit of honey, almost amazed that she was able to do this while held tight.
"Stop, please, this doesn't need to happen. No more of your tribe need to die. You're alive, your friends are alive because unlike the stupid Worgs, you're smart enough to know when to cut your losses." She remembered Rondo Dimbuckle telling her how orcs who worked with worgs tended to be jealous of the beasts, and she hoped that would work in her favor her. "We're refugees who just want to be left alone, and if you all leave us be, we'll leave you be ourselves. Please, for your own sake, please just leave us be." She knew her already tinny voice was reaching a fever pitch, but hopefully she could talk a few of the orcs down, at least enough to let her go for now. (Dipl 22)
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Message #66
IC - Exploration by 293688 Tessa
Thur, 14 Sep 2017 14:49:27 GMT
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(init 15): Once inside, Tessa followed Yamari's command and moved up to a window, opening it and looking out to inspect the surroundings. She could hear heavy footsteps, it sounded as if a whole damn army was approaching...
Then she saw something scary, how an orc apparently had grabbed the gnome girl and used her as a shield as he backed up. "Xali is in trouble, guys!" she called out.
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Message #67
IC - Exploration by 293928 Timothy
Thur, 14 Sep 2017 21:05:29 GMT
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Timothy focuses on the same target with determination; he needs bring down the worgs so they can focus on orcs. As compared to orcs riding the worgs, the orcs are not that though if they are weak as ambush group. But what they made up was sheer numbers. He smirks.
I ponder do I got enough arrows for them...
He draws his bowstring and with snapping twang sends arrow flying on worg's flank, intending fell it (10 ranged hit vs flat-footed AC, miss). Sadly though last moment worg leaped and Timothy curses for arrow wasted!
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Message #68
IC - Exploration by 293513 Scarlett
Thur, 14 Sep 2017 23:05:22 GMT
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Init 13
How would you like to die? It was late night campfire talk. It was something to discuss when deep into your cups. It was a chance to tell outlandish stories about how you'd like to be remembered.
Was one life worth it? A total stranger met on the field moments ago? He knew the answer of his ancestors, from tales told over and over.
He looked, calculated. Smiled. "Pay attention knaves. This may be my very last performance!" A leap turned into a diving roll sending him past blinded opponents to chase down the kidnapped companion. Half-Speed acrobatics roll to reach The Orc with the Kidnap Victim, diving through the blinded wargs. rolled a 14. Checks against their CMD. If successful should put me in Attack range of the orc.
"Kidnapping is low business, particularly on the battlefield"
The blade swung out towards the offending orc but apparently concern for hitting the victim took the blade much too wide.
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Message #69
IC - Exploration by 293517 Crysila D'Evenant
Fri, 15 Sep 2017 01:45:47 GMT
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(Init 12)
Seeing Xali get grabbed by the orc, Crysila shakes her head and sighs, watching Timothy miss his shot and then Scarlett risk herself. "We have one shot at this! Keep those clear of the door till I return!."
With that she takes one running step and then uses her glaive to vault over the blinded worgs, coming down right atop the Orc holding Xali!
(14 to hit vs grappled foe for 19 damage.)
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Message #70
IC - Exploration by 293514 Yamari
Fri, 15 Sep 2017 03:44:36 GMT
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(Init 13)
Just one life saved. Is that too much to ask for?
Tessa's cry attracts Yamari's attention and he sets arrow to fletch once more, his golden almond eyes peering out at the battlefield, seeking out the retreating orc and its hostage. Rather then let shaft fly, he hesitates, perhaps not trusting his accuracy in quite that tight of a situation. The dark lacquered wood and horn of his bow begins to glow with an inner radiance, transforming in his hands into a weapon of shimmering golden light, seeming to draw power from his focus.
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Message #71
IC - Exploration by 293558 Kane
Fri, 15 Sep 2017 04:18:45 GMT
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"Begone, fools!" Kane slashes and bites, his teeth getting close to one of the orc's necks
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Message #72
IC - Exploration by 293521 Zylphyr
Fri, 15 Sep 2017 07:50:41 GMT
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Zylphyr watched the events unfold, realizing that if anyone was fool enough to go after the gnome, they'd need a way back, thus he sent his bolt of lightning into the closest Worg (Hit:18) in an effort to make a hole (Dmg: 11) for them to return through.
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Message #73
IC - Exploration by 293291 Storyteller (GM)
Fri, 15 Sep 2017 08:55:28 GMT
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Kane gnaws the head off of one orc with a ferocious bite, then making short work of the Worgs on either side of him, slashing into them with vigor, causing the remaining orc riding one to dismount to press its attack. Zylphyr shocks the closest worg to death, again leaving an enraged orc. Scarlett attempts to get past the remaining Orcs, but is unable to push through, as one of the Orcs slices into his abdomen (hit: 21), drawing more than a spray of blood (dmg: 6). Meanwhile Crysalis attempts a similar move, by leaping over the head of an orc, but finds himself similarly blocked (hit: Nat 20) as the Orc plants his blade deep into her leg (12 dmg), forcing her back down to the ground (prone).
One of the two remaining orcs attempts to flee back to the approaching hoarde, but Scarlett cuts him down before the attempt can even begin (AoO), the other (13hp) takes a swing at Scarlett, but fails to make contact.
Xali is dragged into the approaching throng, pleading in common before realizing that these beasts likely can not understand her speech. Switching to undercommon, she begins to reiterate her desire to be freed when... before her stands an orc of odd proportions. The creature wears a feather head-dress covered with the skulls of rodents, a staff in one gnarled hand. He reaches out to place his other hand upon her head, but pauses long enough for her to plead her case.
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Message #74
IC - Exploration by 293688 Tessa
Fri, 15 Sep 2017 12:30:25 GMT
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(Init 15): After having called to the others that Xali was in trouble, Tessa started aiming at the orc who was holding her. At this distance it was hard to notice anything, even with her Low-Light-Vision, but she could see that there were two orcs right with her, and the silhouettes didn't look as if they were fighting. As such she prepared a spell and held herself ready to unleash her magic in an attempt to help Xali.
(Ready Action to cast Magic Missile, shooting two missiles, one missile at the orc holding Xali and the other at the Orc in front of her, hoping to surprise both of them enough to give Xali the ability to get free and run. Trigger: When it looks like either of the orcs is attacking her.)
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Message #75
IC - Exploration by 293516 Xali (editor)
Fri, 15 Sep 2017 14:00:44 GMT
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(Init 20) Xali was not coping well with what was happening around her. Her pleading didn't seem to be going anywhere, and then it looked like it was going to a much worse place as she became encircled by was felt like fifty thousand roaring orcs. Then suddenly an orc that stood out from the others placed its hand on her head, clearly this was a leader of some sort. Think girl, think!
She had a flash of insight and thought to the first time she had to defend her thesis on her theory regarding the architecture of Ilvarandin. She had a professor who simply didn't like her and she had to overcome that with words, words would have to save her here.
Muttering a prayer under her breath, Xali ran her hands down the front of her blouse, flattening out the ruffles, giving herself a moment to order her thoughts and do her best to remember something she'd read about their beliefs. (Know: Religion 20) Then she began to talk, her tiny voice coming out in the much rougher sounds of the orc tongue. "This is a mistake. You and your tribe have clearly stumbled upon us, thinking us an easy target and we've proven to be anything but. We seem to be refugees, poor, hapless victims of a siege that have been run ragged. That was a mistake. We are trained warriors, warriors which would have decimated normal, weak orcs. Black orcs like you, followers of Orcus, are a special breed though. You skills, your strengths would be wasted here. While you might win, at what cost? You had surprise, you've lost that. We've caught our breath, found our footing, and now we're ready to strike back." She was in her element now, the shakiness that was in her voice when she was grabbed was gone, now though she was stern, her words coming out with real conviction. The harsh, guttural noises of the orc tongue only working to amplify her stance. "So you can push the attack, you can try to scare them by killing the smallest of our group, but you know that will only heat their blood, that will only drive them to fury. And maybe you'll still win the battle, but what then? Will your horde be so weak as to be overtaken by your weaker cousins? Is that what you want? A meaningless victory only to go down in history as a priest of Orcus that was killed by lesser orcs?"(diplomacy 25)
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Message #76
IC - Exploration by 293510 Jix
Fri, 15 Sep 2017 20:52:05 GMT
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(Ini 16) Jix sees Xali talking to the orks thinking I hope this works, cause if not we are in a pretty bad position.
"Hey Guys lets wait for their answer, maybe Xali can appease them" he tells the rest.
He waits for their reaction but ready himself to defend himself.
(Ready Action: If the Orks attack anyone of us he hits the orc in front of him)
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Message #77
IC - Exploration by 293513 Scarlett
Sat, 16 Sep 2017 01:16:38 GMT
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Edited since the GM gave us the time to do it
Init 13
There was one more of these things in range and a whole horde of them beyond. Perhaps they could mount a rescue attempt. In the meantime there was a ready target at hand. Perhaps simply slashing this one would be easier than his last performance attempt. Sometimes these tumbling tricks were just more successful with a wheel.
It was all too much chaos though and the attack went where the orc was two seconds ago instead of finding the mark. He took one large step back around behind and beside the heavily armored warrior.
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Message #78
IC - Exploration by 293517 Crysila D'Evenant
Sat, 16 Sep 2017 01:46:12 GMT
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(Ini 12)
Crysila doesn't lower her weapon but does stop moving, taking up a defensive stance in front of the door once again. She waits to see if Xali is going to be spared, or annihilated, the warrior unable to aid the little woman now.
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Message #79
IC - Exploration by 293928 Timothy
Sat, 16 Sep 2017 04:56:13 GMT
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(Ini 16)Timothy drew another arrow ready, but seeing others halt their actions as Xali went for full diplomatic route on the orcs, he does not fire his arrow. But he does wait and watch how orcs respond and if violently....well, they will suffer a immediate response from him for sure.
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Message #80
IC - Exploration by 293521 Zylphyr
Sat, 16 Sep 2017 06:28:36 GMT
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Zylphyr realized that the gnome was doomed, and watched as Crysalis got plucked from the sky, and slammed into the ground with a gruesome blow. He also saw that, everyone could make a run for it back to the mill, now that the immediate threat was all but negated, "Let's get inside now that we can!", he yelled as he released a bolt of electrical power (18) into the last orc standing, ending the most local threat (12)
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Message #81
IC - Exploration by 293514 Yamari
Sat, 16 Sep 2017 07:36:02 GMT
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(Init 13)
Having finally gotten down the stairs and into position after unbarring the windows, Yamari finds himself again hesitating to do what must be done; in a corner of his heart, something prideful and callous sniggers at the thought of talking to these savage demihumans, in attempting to elucidate logic from a position of weakness to those who value only strength.
In another corner, the gibbering shapeshifting mass that is fear predicts his failure, the death of the one under his protection and his complicity in it, for a shining arrow of light into that sea of flesh would doom diplomacy just as surely as an omen from a god.
But it is neither pride that lets loose his wrath, nor fear that holds him back, but the resolute calm of hope that holds him watchful, ready to strike at the leader whom Xali parlays with if her attempt at reason should fail. (Use the roll from last round if my ready goes off; -1 damage, since I'm not spending my Sacred Weapon on rounds I'm not actively firing)
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Message #82
Re: IC - Exploration by 293558 Kane
Sun, 17 Sep 2017 05:24:30 GMT
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(Init 16)
(3 THP as a standard action)
Kane slips back to a more defendable position inside, trying to force a choke to pick them off one by one, imbueing his wounds with small flecks of shimmering particals, ready to take a bit of the next attack's bite away.
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Message #83
Re: IC - Exploration by 293291 Storyteller (GM)
Mon, 18 Sep 2017 11:38:35 GMT
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Zylphyr quickly blasts the remaining Orc into a shriveling pile of flesh as the 20 other orcs come charging into the group. As everyone goes into a defensive stance, they find themselves quickly surrounded by far superior numbers. Meanwhile, the Shaman continues to listen to Xali, his hand still hovering inches from her head.
"Dajatlh'a' porghvam 'ej QuQ loQ wa', Hoch 'e' vItna' prophesied. be' puq chenmoH QaD pong 4-yoDSutmey tuQ veqlargh beast … ", the Shaman recants, looking over at Kane, "maj Hoch prophesied 'oH, vaj ghotvam lughoS 'oH juS. Daq HubtaHvIS nItebHa' 'ej neH ruch, bond chenmoH maH. ".
As his words ring out, you realize that, hidden beyond the cacophony of orcs charging which has now quieted down, not only can the eerie sound of the now-familiar undead be heard approaching, but a darkness can be felt spreading over the small plateau. Looking up, the sky is suddenly blocked out by a swarm of bats.
"poH ngaj, maHvaD ghu'vam protection 'emvo' mill yInej.", he continues.
It is of note that, he is shadowed by a rather large human whom you had earlier mistaken as an Orc, wearing the same types of fur and weapons you'd expect an Orc to wear. The human seems very protective of the Shaman, though there is a wild fury in his eyes.
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Message #84
Re: IC - Exploration by 293516 Xali (editor)
Mon, 18 Sep 2017 14:06:57 GMT
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Xali rapped her fist against her chest and then held it out towards the shaman. She knew it was a sign of solidarity and respect among the followers of Orcus, and even if she had no love for the god, it was still a prudent action considering the shaman's words. "I don't know how many of my group can speak your tongue, let me explain your words to them."
With that she crossed the field, trying to keep her face away from any of the orcs for fear that she might crack and her weakness would be apparent. Once she was closer to the mill she motioned for everyone to follow her inside. "Leave the door open, I don't want them to think we're planning anything." Her words seemed to hold the last bits of her strength and once she was sure she was out of sight of any of the black orcs she shuddered and nearly came to tears. "Oh god I don't know if it's good or bad...." She ran her hands through her grassy hair and looked at the others in the group. "He said that it was prophesied that I'd talk to him and that a woman in a child's body, which I think is supposed to be me, would be protected by a four armed demon, which must be you." She pointed at Kane, her eyes full of uncertainty. "They said that they're going to defend the mill WITH us. They want to create a bond, and they want to take shelter in here with us."
Xali scanned the eyes of those around her. "Guys, these are black orcs, that's a shaman of Orcus, they're bad guys. They're like the definition of bad guys, this isn't a shades of grey sort of thing. And I think we need to let them in here sooner rather than later so we don't get them angry, because if anything they're just the first wave." Xali started just babbling for a bit, spewing all the horrible things she had learned about followers of the demon lord Orcus
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Message #85
Re: IC - Exploration by 293558 Kane
Mon, 18 Sep 2017 15:21:45 GMT
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"If anything, I'd be closer to a fiend than a demon, dad wasn't from the abyss or wherever demons come from, though stories and such like that love being vague from what I've heard. With everything that happened, help defending is always good, and if anything is up, there's the saying 'Keep your friends close, and your enemies closer' you know?" he shrugs. "I mean, there's gonna be evil in the world, but sometimes circumstances pushes even the most evil beings to aid others, and you never know the individual immediately unless you're using magic, after all, people looking at what Dad is would typically assume he's evil, but he's not. Sure, he's not really good, but definitely not evil..." He thinks for a moment "Any of 'em speak other languages? The less people needing a translator the better, I'd say."
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Message #86
Re: IC - Exploration by 293928 Timothy
Mon, 18 Sep 2017 15:37:09 GMT
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Timothy joined others in once Xali joined back to them, listening and then Kane doing question he replied; "I can speak orc, elven and halfling. I myself I did not sense orc shaman lying, but overall I would be quite suspicious about entire arrangement. But fact is that this group of orcs now know where mill is, we are outnumbered and seems they are part of larger group but their shaman has own personal vision somekind about Xali. I would wish Xali asks what the 'bond' exactly means or is before we agree or disagree.
But what comes to evil and such, well, used to shady and outright crazy people among the bandits. Orcus, as demonic god is unpredictable and orcs overall are unpredictable lot by default and highly violent and respects only strength. So if our display of prowess impressed shaman, he may genuinely offer bonding to his tribe or such as despite not being greenskins, we are strong and should be respected. But if we team up with them, expect some serious dark things for our 'allies' to do our enemies. Complaints and visible display of weakness can turn our allies against us.
Assuming this all is not just shamans clever plot to get it's horde inside our defenses and then defeat us."
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Message #87
Re: IC - Exploration by 293513 Scarlett
Tue, 19 Sep 2017 00:24:22 GMT
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Scarlett found himself surrounded by a large host of orcs. Normally with such a crowd he'd put on a performance.
And so he did. But this was no dazzling display of flying feet nor the soothing song of the southern winds. This performance was all confidence and pantomime. With deliberate care he sheathed the sword, shouldered the shield. His hands were now free and empty. This could go exceptionally sideways. The earlier injury reminded him about how fast death would find him here.
Obviously some sort of parley was ongoing. Were they to be carted off to prison?
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Message #88
Re: IC - Exploration by 293517 Crysila D'Evenant
Tue, 19 Sep 2017 01:28:31 GMT
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Crysila is far from putting her weapon down, though she does back off to let Xali speak. The adrenaline in her blood urging her to cut into the monsters surrounding her. She sneers and shakes her head, "So the remnants of the orish army and the undead army want to fight and kill each other? Fine with me. I'd rather not have either for neighbors in the next room...but we either die here killing as many of them as we can, or we let them in and they kill us by surprise. Or they are telling the truth. Either way, the orcs breathe and the undead don't. So I guess I'd rather side with them."
She deflated a bit at this.
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Message #89
Re: IC - Exploration by 293521 Zylphyr
Tue, 19 Sep 2017 07:55:28 GMT
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The alacrity of these black orcs surprised Zylphyr, for he had barely pulverized an orc with a lightning-like blast, when he was suddenly surrounded by many more. He crouched down, ready to take one last Orc with him before he died, when he noticed that they weren't attacking, despite him having just killed off several of their friends. Still, he kept the energy flowing as he stayed back to back with his new allies, ready for one last release should things go sideways here. Feeling an ally's back brush against his own, he couldn't help but give voice to his inner child, "C'mon... we can take them!", he said in a huff of bravado.
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Message #90
Re: IC - Exploration by 293291 Storyteller (GM)
Tue, 19 Sep 2017 09:24:29 GMT
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The human, who stands as tall as these orcs, towering at more than 7' in height, pulls a horn from his waist, presses it to his lips, and bellows out a single note, at which the Orcs in military precision, sheath their weapons and amble towards the door of the mill. They gesture to the others in a manner that indicates all hostilities are forgotten as others of their group pick up the fallen of their group, helping them to their feet. More orcs emerge from the tree lines, though these are mostly green orcs, who look back nervously at the deathly howls coming from the south.
From the rear, Xali and the Shaman approach the mill, Xali giving affirmations that the orcs prefer to be allies to enemies. Still... not a lot of time to prepare a defense, even with these new allies, against the coming undead hoarde. Without a way of crossing the river, with the mill being set into a mountainside along the river, you find yourselves holed up in a bit of a cul-de-sac, with no choice but to fight or die.
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Message #91
Re: IC - Exploration by 293521 Zylphyr
Tue, 19 Sep 2017 11:19:45 GMT
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Zylphyr nods towards the acceptance of the orcs, switching almost too quickly from cornered wolverine into a cheerful smile and running to assist the orcs he'd shot down with his electrical affinity. As Xali approaches, he smiles at her, "Looks like you're leading this troupe... any engineers or tacticians in the mix that could point out some defensive advantages?", he asks while nodding towards the coming invasion of undead.
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Message #92
Re: IC - Exploration by 293516 Xali (editor)
Tue, 19 Sep 2017 22:23:37 GMT
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Xali managed to bite her tongue and did her best to force a stern look as the orcs come back into view, it wouldn't do to look weak now. She glanced at Zylphyr as he mentioned engineering. "I, uh, I helped design some modifications to the city's defenses before it fell. Obviously they weren't effective against the undead, but I'm sure I could help with something. If anyone has an eye for tactics, join me on that mezzanine." She forced herself to look at this like a puzzle and then stopped, something else Zylphyr had said just struck her. "I'm...? No, no, no, no" Her recusals came out in rapid fire succession. "I'm not a leader, I'm just a student, an academic. I don't know the first thing about that..." She started up the stairs towards the next level and pointed her finger at Zylphyr for a second, then pointed at Crysila. She mouthed words, seeming to think of what to say for a moment. Eventually she seemed to find her words. "I'll be up there if anyone needs me."
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Message #93
Re: IC - Exploration by 293928 Timothy
Wed, 20 Sep 2017 11:05:03 GMT
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Seeing that they band with the orcs for now, Timothy relaxes slightly in placing bow and arrow away and as orcs come in he takes a camouflage cape, dons it on and takes pair of bear traps as he speaks to the orcs (in orcan); "von lan cha' DopDaq clearing, botlh Huv ta' vaj wej wander around clearing HeH jIghoS." Repeating same for common for benefit of others; "I will go place these traps on the two sides of the clearing, middle being clear so do not wander around the edge of the clearing."
With that he goes place the traps in, arm and hide them in leafs best as he can and then proceeds look tallest tree nearest to the mill.
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Message #94
Re: IC - Exploration by 293291 Storyteller (GM)
Wed, 20 Sep 2017 13:09:17 GMT
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As Timothy begins setting up traps, the large human joins him, introducing himself as Korak. He seems genuinely desirous at being helpful, and a preference of wanting to fight out in the open rather than join his tribe within to what he refers to sporadically as "a burning house". His eyes are constantly wary, watching the eerie glow over the treeline getting closer, and the bats overhead swirling in their maelstrom of madness.
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Message #95
Re: IC - Exploration by 293521 Zylphyr
Wed, 20 Sep 2017 13:35:19 GMT
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Waiting for everyone to start getting involved in the defenses, Zylphyr made his way down the river towards the undead. He wasn't eager to seek out the enveloping darkness of the mill, where he could be surrounded, and eventually killed. He also wouldn't abandon his new allies, as he had abandoned those in the capitol, but perhaps he could create some chaos from without by blasting at the foe, creating a second front to this battle.
Burying himself in the shadows of the night, he finds a low hanging willow tree that caresses the river water, and hides in the most inhospitable of the terrain there, hoping that the mixture of difficult terrain, and cover, will allow him to slip past the coming threat from the south.
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Message #96
Re: IC - Exploration by 293688 Tessa
Wed, 20 Sep 2017 14:46:37 GMT
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Tessa was kind of glad that the little girl came back again, but hearing that they were apparently going to fight side by side with the orcs worried the bunny girl. It wasn't so much that she was worried about fighting together with those she tried to kill only minutes ago, but she didn't like to see those orcs get into the mill together with them. This was very much a dead end already, they didn't need some friggin orcs to add to that. The fact that the greenskins were evil wasn't of so much bother to her, mostly because she thought that most of them would probably die to the undead anyway.
And so Tessa started preparing, walking up the mill to get to the highest point, planning to snipe from there. Arriving in the attic, she noticed that there were no windows, and so she walked down again after taking some playing dice and putting them into a pocket, just in case... Finding herself in the mezzanin, she looked around and thought that from this rather open position she could probably shoot an arrow or three at the undead when they approached. To not turn into easy bat prey though, Tessa moved back into the attic and closed the trapdoor to it, planning to wait up here for at least a little while.
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Message #97
Re: IC - Exploration by 293513 Scarlett
Wed, 20 Sep 2017 19:06:09 GMT
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Scarlett found his way on up the stairs to talk with the woman who seemed to have put together this brief truce in the name of self-preservation. "You're doing fine." He told her as she kept protesting regarding her qualifications to be the leader. "Never trust anyone who really wants to be in charge, especially in a conflict like this. Frankly I'm glad we have both troops and a break in the action." He hummed a quick bit of song to reduce the injury he'd suffered earlier. Cure Light Wounds for 9
"I'd be happy to talk with you about what we can do to defend this place better.." He put up a hand in a stop sign gesture. "Don't let the arms and armor fool you. I'm really an entertainer, but you'd be amazed at things you pick up tramping the highways and lowways. Now tell me about what you have in mind for this place and maybe I can help you out."
Using Take 10 on a Knowledge roll for a 19, and if I'm just helping someone I can add +3 to what they come up with
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Message #98
Re: IC - Exploration by 293517 Crysila D'Evenant
Wed, 20 Sep 2017 20:24:17 GMT
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Needing to get away from the stink of the hated orcs, Crysila took to the mezzanine, readying her gear and making ready for yet more fighting. It wasn't that the orcs were evil that bothered her so much, or the strict fact that they were orcs. The problem for her was that they were orcs who had hours ago taken part in the butchering of friends of hers very likely. "And now I must keep myself from laying into them along with the undead when they come, if any of the others here are to make it out of this situation alive."
She kicked a short section of the railing and sat to wait for the inevitable battle to come upon their little band.
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Message #99
Re: IC - Exploration by 293928 Timothy
Wed, 20 Sep 2017 20:45:00 GMT
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Timothy nods for Korak and replies; "Can understand that sentiment, thus reason why I start in outdoors. You can help me though help secure means to get back inside without needing open a door..." Timothy tells of his plan remain outside sniping from one tall trees but problem then comes in returning to mill if tree becomes targeted and thus get him trapped. So his plan is connect rope between tree where he is and to large hatch. Hatch which can remain closed but needs opened so rope can be slided between the hatch doors (so he can open the doors outside if using the rope climb to hatch entrance). Korak just needs bind the rope somewhere tightly while Timothy climbs and ties rope on the tree.
Timothy then proceeds climb and hide into one taller trees in rougher terrain, blend in there best as he can with his camouflaged cape and ready his bow and arrows. He ties one end of rope near where he lays in and Korak covers other end inside the mill.
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Message #100
Re: IC - Exploration by 293510 Jix
Thur, 21 Sep 2017 05:48:15 GMT
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Jix was wary of the new allies but happy that none of use had to stand in the front line anymore.
"I don't think anyone here got a spare short bow for my size, am I right?" he asks.
So Jix tries to help were he can and readies himself to stand in the second row with some of the Orcs, asking them if any of them could speak anything else then orcan.
"So whats the plan? Do you want to hold them at the door or on the balcony? Or even on further out?"
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Message #101
Re: IC - Exploration by 293928 Timothy
Thur, 21 Sep 2017 09:22:39 GMT
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As Timothy was moving to the tree, he heard Jix's question and shouted; "I dumped my today's scavenging catches on room floor below you! At the storage room, check it for any weapons."
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Message #102
Re: IC - Exploration by 293510 Jix
Thur, 21 Sep 2017 10:01:33 GMT
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"Thanks Timothy, I'll definitely go look there" Jix shouted back.
Jix is going to get down there and look for a short-bow in his size and some arrows.
After he finds them he would join the rest of the Archers at the mezzanine.
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Message #103
Re: IC - Exploration by 293291 Storyteller (GM)
Thur, 21 Sep 2017 11:19:33 GMT
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For the most part, the Orcs seem unwilling to enter the mill, and instead seem intent on using the terrain as a method of avoiding being surrounded. With the hill rising roughly here, the rocky background gives a good position for a last stand. Instead, their interest seems to be in seeing if any of the materials here would be interesting to use in a defense. The Shaman seems particularly interested in Xali, and interestingly... Yamari, whom he goes out of the way to avoid, and at the same time, admire.
As everyone conducts their preparations for a last stand, the Shaman seems mostly interested in hearing about recent events, and expressing his own recent events. Even going so far as to apologize, though in a manner that keeps him from avoiding the loss of face before his contingent of soldiers. "It was a shame that we didn't recognize the prophesied ones earlier..." sort of comments. However, as the hour passes, you get the feeling that not everything is as you had heard. It seems the Orcs are being annihilated, as the undead push northward, and though they tried diplomatic means of uniting with the Kingdom, all attempts were (supposedly) met with hostility. The implication being that your King hoped to weaken the undead hoard by sacrificing the Orcs to it. Instead, it's only made it stronger, as the deaths created a greater resource from which to pool from.
Meanwhile, he happily answers any questions thrown at him, and seems genuinely cheerful for an Orc.
As you look around, you get the realization that the orcs aren't looking so much for weapons as wood... the older and dryer the wood, the more energetically they pull it from the mill, and take it outside. Even the giant beam that was being turned by the roaring power of the river, has been dislocated, and dragged out the large window. The doors that were hinged to the rock wall are forcibly removed as well, and dragged outside, though the orcs are very adamant about not hurting the structural integrity of the mill itself, even going so far as to use greener wood to brace the walls from the inside for you.
Outside, morning can be seen starting to peep its head over the distant landscape as the sky turns from black to a deep purple shade. The green orcs, the weaker of the breeds, take what wood they can find, and shatter it with great axes, spreading it all over the battlefield, as if it were caltrops that could somehow slow or hinder the approaching army?
In the distance, at the bottom of the hill, can now be seen the figures shambling towards the mill. Within the hour, the entire mill should be over-run. Ghastly shapes can be seen darting from tree to tree, as if searching for potential victims, as undead orcs and humans alike march along to the sounds of the early birds rising from their roosts. Korak, having finished conversing with Timothy, makes his way down the hill, making sure he's the first point of contact the hoard reaches when it arrives.
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Message #104
Re: IC - Exploration by 293928 Timothy
Thur, 21 Sep 2017 11:24:59 GMT
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Timothy patiently lays in wait on the big tree and hiding. Waiting and observing the approaching undead horde and locate any leaders amongst it. Necromancers and such. Leave the crunch of figthing to the horde below and the few non-orc allies while he focus on picking key targets of interest.
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Message #105
Re: IC - Exploration by 293516 Xali (editor)
Thur, 21 Sep 2017 13:36:26 GMT
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From her seat up on the mezannine, Xali watched the orcs working with the wood, and she had a pretty good idea of what they were doing. It had taken a while, but her nerves were finally starting to calm. She looked down at the small journal she had in her hands and wrote the words You can get used to anything! in the margin, nodded and closed the book. She had hidden out long enough and couldn't stand by watching everyone else prepare for what might come. Walking back to the lower level where everyone was, she said aloud to no one in specific, "Truth is, if they have any war machines at all, the building won't stand. It's cobbled rocks mortared together decades ago, and the mortar is already starting to crumble. However, those doors set into the rock face, may be something we want opened, so at worse, we have an egress, and at best, perhaps a more defendable position that won't falter with a single shot of a catapult or similar device." She wasn't sure how much help that information would be, after all those around her seemed much more experienced in these sorts of things. She noticed the shaman nearby, still surprised by how much he wasn't fitting the image she had in her mind when she first saw him and decided it was time to get more information from him. "So, what can you tell me about this prophecy?"
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Message #106
Re: IC - Exploration by 293521 Zylphyr
Thur, 21 Sep 2017 18:59:25 GMT
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Zylphyr hugged the bank of the river closer, as he watched the glowing shapes leap tree to tree. He realized they were searching for those hiding or seeking to escape. He forced himself to calm down, bile rising in his throat as fear tried taking over. The only way to overcome the fear was to stay busy, which was hard to do when one was hiding... so he slowly began to cover his body with the mud from the bank, trying to enhance his stealth with a little bit of natural camouflage.
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Message #107
Re: IC - Exploration by 293291 Storyteller (GM)
Fri, 22 Sep 2017 11:55:38 GMT
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"Hrmph...", responded the Shaman, "The problem with prophecies being that, telling them either forces them to happen, or applies direct force against them happening.", he adds, shrugging, "Many will die tomorrow night, just be prepared for the final battle." he says as he stands to look out the only window facing south. The sun was starting to rise, and the undead army had taken to the field where only hours ago, the 2 groups had meshed in battle.
As Zylphyr hugged the damp mud, ghasts and ghosts swiped past him, one carefully searching the willow under which he hid, and another popping in and out of the river in search of any that might hide beneath the surface. Somehow, they all missed the camouflaged elf who had hidden in the muddied boughs of the rocky bank. Skeletal and zombified feet clad in armour marched inches from Zylphyr's face, on their way to the rocky wall in which the mill was built. By his count, several hundred or perhaps a thousand or more undead were here to lay claim to the area.
Timothy found a nice place, in a truly inhospitable terrain, his bow in hand as he looked out upon the army marching towards him. A single rope draped towards the mill, for a quick escape should it be needed. His bird's eye view was best for what happened next. As the sun's rays bore down upon the battlefield, a single figure leaped from a perch atop the mill, his armour gleaming against the break of sunlight over the horizon. As Yamari fell, the sunlight reflected in all directions in a blaring holy light which caused all the undead upon which it fell, to silently scream, as their bodies clattered and plopped to the soft ground below.
Yamari's body disappeared in the light, leaving only the material possessions he had borne, in a pile upon the ground, still glowing with a holy light.
Within 10 minutes, the entire army had fallen to the sunlight, each of the undead seemingly willfully stepping out of shadows to embrace the sun.
"And so it begins again...", the voice of the Shaman rose, silencing those around him by his sudden outburst, "The same happened to us yesterday morning, and we celebrated, a thousand warriors we were. At nightfall, they rose from their resting place, and began marching anew, killing my unsuspecting orcs who were foolishly separated from each other as they pilfered the bodies."
The Shaman looked at Xali. "This time we will destroy as many of the bodies as we can, you have until sun's set to egress or beset. Flight or fight...", he added as he gazed out and watched the orcs charge back out into the field, throwing flaming torches at the lying bodies, and watching as all the dry wood started to light up under the flames.
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Message #108
Re: IC - Exploration by 293928 Timothy
Fri, 22 Sep 2017 15:56:48 GMT
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Timothy was readied for long and bloody conflict ahead...but he was stunned and shocked on sight of Yamari jumping, then blazing like a sun and then evaporate and along with that undead crumbled?!
As he slided down with the rope, see what orcs are doing and hearing shaman's words he replied; "Okay, let's burn many bodies as we can then. Let's stockpile bodies together and make huge fire then. We need clear the area bit more so fire does not spread to the trees. While part of the tribe builds further traps and fortifications for next nightfall." In his part Timothy collected the bear traps, trigger them harmless manner to collect and then using his hand axe started chop smaller trees around clearing to widen it up. They need lot more space to burn bodies without causing forest fire. Once cutting bit wood he helps carry bodies to building burning piles. Instructing to dig around four feet deep big chasm where place wood, set blaze and then just start stacking bodies into the large fire pit.
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Message #109
Re: IC - Exploration by 293516 Xali (editor)
Fri, 22 Sep 2017 16:13:03 GMT
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Not knowing what else to do, Xali immediately set to helping with disposing the bodies, her mind was primarily on the prophecy, there had to be more to it, but it could wait. For now she busied herself moving wood and whatever other small things she could manage while the larger, stronger orcs did most of the heavy lifting.
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Message #110
Re: IC - Exploration by 293688 Tessa
Sat, 23 Sep 2017 18:11:11 GMT
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Tess spent her time preparing some of the arrows she had looted hours ago, mostly removing the tip to make them blunt so they were more effective against those undead skeletons. She noticed how the orcs were gathering dry wood and prepared it outside. Sure, dry wood was good for fire, but Tessa didn't know what the orcs wanted to do with it. However, as time passed and once Tessa didn't know what else she could do, she joined Xali in helping. At least she could help starting fires thanks to her magic. She did see how Yamari jumped though and was confused for a moment, even more so when his body dispersed into bright light. She thought that it was just some kind of magic though and as such just focused on helping again.
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Message #111
Re: IC - Exploration by 293510 Jix
Sun, 24 Sep 2017 08:44:54 GMT
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Jix was ready to shoot at the undead and so Yamaris sacrifice caught him of guard.
Was it really necessary? he asked himself.
"Guys do what the shaman says! I think he got more experience dealing with them."
Then Jix runs outside and helps lighting fires and dragging bodies to them.
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Message #112
Re: IC - Exploration by 293558 Kane
Mon, 25 Sep 2017 04:33:04 GMT
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"I can aid better than just being big, if we need, I can focus my magic to maintain an enlarging effect on another to help them lift more, though I don't wish to drain my power just in case, so I'll need to focus nearby..
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Message #113
Re: IC - Exploration by 293521 Zylphyr
Mon, 25 Sep 2017 05:48:57 GMT
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Zylphyr felt his heart attempt egress through his throat, as the undead hoarde marched inward, meer inches from his face. The spectral figures which sought out survivors coming dangerously close to his hiding spot. He was both relieved and terrified when the bodies started to fall to the light of the sun, a skeletal face rolling to within an inches of his own face, eyesockets looking him dead in the eye. Slowly, once he was sure that the skull before him was not about to attack, he drew himself from the muddy enclosure, and observed the area around him.
Shaky hands drew water from the river, and began wiping the mud from his face and clothes, though the wiping slowly turned into a frantic cleaning as he started to come to terms with how close his demise had been. He would have been alone, far from any allies, and surrounded by the worst of the creatures to roam this land. A change of plans was imminent, though he'd first have to get cleaned up.
Slightly refreshed, though still exhausted, he made his way back to the group, watching as allies and orcs alike tried burning bodies. Rather than help, he made his way up to the mezzanine, buried himself in a pile of hay, and slept for a couple of hours instead. Honestly, he didn't even care about the Orcs any more, they seemed so lifelike and friendly by comparisson, and he slept deeply, content in the knowledge that if anything happened, he would be awakened.
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Message #114
Re: IC - Exploration by 293291 Storyteller (GM)
Mon, 25 Sep 2017 08:13:04 GMT
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Indeed, the orcs seemed intent on burning the corpses this time, rather than looting them. As soon as the bodies started hitting the ground, they were rushing forward with torches in hand, intentionally setting fire to the dry wood scattered in piles around the field. Unlike Timothy, these orcs seemed less interested in preserving what trees were on the field, and seemed to actively try and set some of the trees on fire. They jumped forward to help Timothy fell some trees, rocking the trees so they'd snap over prematurely, guided to the fires as they fell.
The other orcs were carrying bodies to the fires, trying to burn as much as possible. Meanwhile, the Shaman had disappeared up onto the mezzanine, observing the doorway before returning to Xali and motioning her up to the doorway that had been recently opened. "Come", he said, "the next stage of the prophecy is at hand."
He waited until Xali was with him at the doorway, and he pointed to the arcane symbols engraved into the stone on the floor and archway. "Your destiny lies within.", he stated matter-of-factly, "Return before night falls, or all is lost. You will find the tool required to stop this invasion. Do not go it alone." He pauses for a minute, "I see your return from this quest, I can not however, see how things turn out for whomever goes with you."
He raises a hand, as if pushing against an invisible door. A shimmering energy can then be seen as he presses his hand against the air, "Obviously, it is not intended that I be one of the chosen.", he comments, then turns and returns to the bottom floor in a brooding state, before exiting the building to oversee the burning of the corpses. He pauses at the doorway, looking back up and bellowing across the mill, "Return before night falls".
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Message #115
Re: IC - Exploration by 293516 Xali (editor)
Mon, 25 Sep 2017 16:50:19 GMT
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Xali could not believe what was happening, a few days ago she'd dreamt of little more than finding a tome she hadn't read before and here she was standing on the threshold to some unknown adventure, and somehow she was important in it. This didn't feel right, and she thought out of everything the shaman had said, his advice to not go alone was simply the most important. She nodded and went to the railing of the mezzanine and looked out onto the field where everyone was working. It reminded her of a sketch she'd seen once, a priest looking out onto a battle and suddenly something occurred to her. She rummaged through her bag for a bit and pulled out one of the books she'd managed to get her hands on when she was fleeing the school, it was an old tome of prayers and she opened it to one that she felt might be most helpful. She closed her eyes to center herself and just started praying, as loud and confidently as she could, hoping that she could be heard by as many people as possible.
It took nearly ten minutes but she finally stopped she had more than a few people looking up at her, and she really felt that she'd reached them. She wasn't sure, of course, but it was what she felt was best to do. Nodding she in turn pointed at each of her party members and whispered, a magical message flying from her lips, down the path of her finger, and to their ears. She let each know what the shaman had said and asked that those who wanted to join her to come up as soon as they could.
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Message #116
Re: IC - Exploration by 293558 Kane
Mon, 25 Sep 2017 19:00:56 GMT
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I eventually make my way up. "Think having a fiendish fighter could help?" I give a cat-like grin as I slink into the room.
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Message #117
Re: IC - Exploration by 293513 Scarlett
Mon, 25 Sep 2017 19:21:53 GMT
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Scarlett felt lost. It happened rarely. Normally surrounded by people he knew what to do. There were so many different ways to work a room. Entertainment, certainly. Gather intel which oddly enough his parents also called working a room. When he was feeling like stirring up trouble, it didn't hurt much to drop a lie here, a lie there, and see what happened to those here and there.
After all, you had to practice those lies so that when it was really important you'd be good at it.
But this was completely new. Surrounded primarily by a horde that didn't speak his language, there was no meaningful way to talk with them. He tried for the better part of an hour using a simple spell but there was an honest ton of work to do and all these folks had a part to play.
Never knowing when you might need the goodwill of the horde, Scarlett had thrown in with them to aid in their tasks and found himself relieved of those tasks when a newly familiar voice found its way to him. Xali. Ah she'd become rather central to all of this, against her will. Made a person want to trust her.
He made his way to her and the Shaman. "Xali, what skills I have are yours for the duration."
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Message #118
Re: IC - Exploration by 293510 Jix
Tue, 26 Sep 2017 10:06:41 GMT
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Jix was tired, but he did what he could to burn the corpses.
Hes just was about to hide in a corner and nap for some hours as he heard Xalis prayer and after that her voice near his head.
That gotta be important
He got his things together and went up to join the rest on the mezzanine
"I can help you with traps and a bit with fighting but don't expect to much. Like all of use i had no sleep" he mumbles towards Xali
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Message #119
Re: IC - Exploration by 293928 Timothy
Tue, 26 Sep 2017 12:04:09 GMT
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Timothy helped the orcs to burn the bodies, he is used to harsh manual labor since his youth so he shrugged lack of sleep and rest from last night easily and continued to work. But he halted as he listened a prayer...more a song, come from the mill. His mind went adrift to better times, perhaps give him sense of hope that someday everything will be alright once more. He hears Xali's voice on his ears to explain briefly the situation.
Without hesitation he cleans most soot from his armor and clothes, picks quiver and bow and goes to mill and says to Xali; "You will have my bow and skills as bandit to help on your task. Hopefully we get it done in time."
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Message #120
Re: IC - Exploration by 293291 Storyteller (GM)
Tue, 26 Sep 2017 14:23:11 GMT
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And thus it was that everyone was found on the mezzanine of the building. Gathered before the doorway that led into the heart of the mountain into which the building had been built. Xali reached her hand out, pressing against the invisible barrier that existed within the archway, feeling it's spider-web like resistance pressing back for a split second, before allowing her hand to become enveloped by shadow.
From an outside perspective, as Xali's hand goes through the barrier, it disappears from sight. Before she can draw her hand back, her body appears to suddenly transform into shadow and ashes, which is suddenly sucked into the barrier, giving the barrier more visibility as a shadowy cloud is visible swirling in the doorway, much like the whirlpool of in a draining body of water... until it eventually disappears entirely leaving naught but an empty tunnel ahead.
"Augh urghAH", is heard from the Shaman who seems shocked at the effect, as he takes a step away from the barrier. It didn't take knowledge in Orcan to recognize the meaning of that phrase... an expletive shock.
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Message #121
Re: IC - Exploration by 293688 Tessa
Tue, 26 Sep 2017 18:57:03 GMT
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Tess did her best to help with burning the bodies, though she herself wasn't too strong or such, but she helped anyway. Hearing the prayer coming from the mezzanine made the bunny girl look up for a bit, before she went back to work, enjoying the smoothing sounds of the prayer in the background.
It wasn't until the magical message was brought to her that she looked up again and turned towards the windmill, before she stood up and left to go up the tower, straight past the mezzanine to get to the attic again, picking up some of the arrows she had deposited there before, before she went down to join the others again.
For now she stayed mostly silent and watched at how Xali touched the barrier and disappeared into it. After gulping once, she stepped forward to follow the girl, she herself placing her hand against the barrier as well, trying to pass through it to follow Xali.
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Message #122
Re: IC - Exploration by 293513 Scarlett
Tue, 26 Sep 2017 19:05:27 GMT
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Magic made no sense. That was part of what made it magic. Apply too much logic to it and it just didn't work. "What in the name of all the little gods just happened to Xali?" He asked no one and everyone at the same time. And before he'd managed to say it or get an answer, there went Tessa.
"Delightful. So either the portal just turned two of the people I just met into so much dust or they are on the other side of whatever this is, possibly together, possibly in need of rescue or at least companions."
"Dangers all around with no safe path. When someone asks how would you like to die, let me say this is no where near the top ten list of how I would like to expire."
Complaining to the universe did not stop him from following Tessa.
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Message #123
Re: IC - Exploration by 293291 Storyteller (GM)
Wed, 27 Sep 2017 11:31:42 GMT
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Tessa reaches up, her mitten like hand pressing against the field of power blocking the archway. She feels its resistance as a presence enters her mind... You do not have what I crave... send another to nourish me.... Reeling back from the psychic assault, she finds herself nearly tumbling over the rail of the mezzanine before she is neatly caught by the hunter who calls himself Timothy. As she looks into his eyes she hears, Excellent... he should do nicely..., before the presence in her head disappears.
As Timothy catches Tessa, his body begins to dissipate into shadow, and much as Xali before him, he is drawn into the archway like a vortex of shadow, leaving Tessa's unfinished fall, to finish.
Scarlett, who was about to reach out and touch this death energy, recoils his hand suddenly (failed Willpower save), taking a couple of steps backwards in the process.
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Message #124
Re: IC - Exploration by 293928 Timothy
Wed, 27 Sep 2017 11:37:49 GMT
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Timothy watched as Xali touched the portal, and as she vanished he cursed; "Fuck! Was this freaking trap after all?!" He looked on shaman, but from words which he understood and shaman's expression indicates shaman is not responsible.
"So who..."
But before he can finish his thought, Tessa rushed to join Xali and got knocked back but the doorway into his arms, he halted her back traced fall. But then he noticed his body started turn shadows and mists and fade and with shocked expression disappears into the doorway as well!
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Message #125
Re: IC - Exploration by 293510 Jix
Wed, 27 Sep 2017 11:53:43 GMT
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Jix watched as Xali vanished and blinks multiple times. "Am I dreaming? No I'm awake."
He looked at the faces of everyone else, seeing everyone was as shocked as he was.
"We have to..." he was interrupted as tessa was thrown back from the barrier.
"So we can't follow her?" he asked only then noticing that Timothy was vanishing to. "What the Hell is going on here?" he asks the two people left."What happened as you touched the barrier?"
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Message #126
Re: IC - Exploration by 293513 Scarlett
Thur, 28 Sep 2017 00:26:01 GMT
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Scarlett snapped out of it and looked on in horror. "What is going on here?" He shivered. "I honestly don't know but getting close to going through there feels like getting close to death and not in a good way."
"Tessa are you OK?"
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Message #127
Re: IC - Exploration by 293291 Storyteller (GM)
Thur, 28 Sep 2017 13:23:03 GMT
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The archway now stands quietly, as stoic as it had laid for however long it has been since this mill was last abandoned. Outside, the hustle of Orcs can be heard making preparations. The chopping of trees has begin to the beating of a drum. The Shaman covers his face with one hand, shaking his head solemnly as he walks down the staircase to the ground level. He's mumbling something, but what he is saying is unclear, and the only translators seem to have disappeared into the portal.
One of the black orcs that is on the mezzanine, slowly presses against the barrier, his mouth open in a dumbfounded expression... but after a few moments, he shrugs and heads in the direction of the staircase as well. There was too much to be done to waste it trying to analyze what had happened...
Perhaps if all went well, and the Shaman's prophecy was to be believed... the missing would return before the end of the day's light. For now, there was an undead army to be dealt with... an army that would surely rise come sun's set.
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Message #128
Re: IC - Exploration by 293688 Tessa
Thur, 28 Sep 2017 21:20:03 GMT
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Tessa cried out a bit as she was forced back, hearing that voice in her head. She was glad that she was caught by Timothy so she didn't fall over the rail. As she stared up at him though, she looked at him with quite fearful and shocked eyes, feeling that presence in her mind disappear, just before Timothy disappeared as well, letting the bunny girl fall down on her rear.
She ached a little bit as she slowly stood up and looked at the others, blinking in confusion before she started explaining. "I... I don't know for sure. There was a voice in my head, it said that I do not have what it wants and needs someone else to... nourish it. Then I touched Timothy and that voice said that he'd do... nicely, and disappeared together with him."
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Message #129
Re: IC - Exploration by 293510 Jix
Thur, 28 Sep 2017 21:41:44 GMT
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"So it only likes the taste of Xali and Timothy?" Jix shock his head in despair.
"The two have nothing in common, one was a nice gnome and timothy a bandit" Jix kicks against the archway and hits his toe.
"We should get back to work and hope they come back, we hopefully can mourn after this undead hoard was defeated" Jix makes his way outside helping the orks burning the corpses.
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Message #130
Re: IC - Exploration by 293558 Kane
Fri, 29 Sep 2017 15:11:23 GMT
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(Was busy all day yesterday, Kane will pitch in on whatever needs some extra muscle)
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Message #131
Re: IC - Exploration by 293688 Tessa
Sun, 01 Oct 2017 08:19:18 GMT
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"They... well, it felt more cold and dark, but I guess one can say that it only liked the taste of those few... That thing was in my head though, and I had no possibility to really resist. It must be highly magical and probably was able to look into my head. Maybe Xali and Timothy have something in common in their minds?" Tessa suggested and looked at the portal again, holding back a little chuckle as the rat guy hit his toe.
"I don't think there'S anything we can do here. Studying the magical barrier would take too long, and I don't think I'd be powerful enough to do anything about it anyway. Let's go and help the orcs again." And with that Tessa walked down again, following right after Jix to help him, preferring to stay somewhat close to someone who wasn't an orc.
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Message #132
Re: IC - Exploration by 293510 Jix
Mon, 02 Oct 2017 10:24:32 GMT
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After midday Jix started to feel the missing sleep.
"Maybe we split into two groups? One sleeps six hours now and then we switch?"
Either way the orks decide Jix is going to find a place to sleep in the mill, telling tessa on the way back in :"I'll sleep a bit, could you wake me up if anything happens?"
In the mill he's looking for a place to sleep and almost immediately falls asleep.
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Message #133
Re: IC - Exploration by 293291 Storyteller (GM)
Mon, 02 Oct 2017 14:25:43 GMT
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The sun begins to reach its zenith in the sky, and the heat of day is mixed with the heat of the bonfire that rages throughout most of the meadow. Orcs work feverishly to keep the fire from heading further west, feeling safe in the belief that it won't rage past the river to the east and really not caring if it goes south where the undead army marched in from. With most of the dry wood having been removed from the mill and surrounding area, it seems relatively safe unless a strong wind were to push it back north again.
The shaman suggests that the non-orcs take a nap within the mill, locking it form the inside, while they themselves take shifts through the day, holing up under some make-shift tents they've perched against the northern rock side of the valley. He constantly looks up at the sun, as if counting its progress in an eager anticipation for the return of those that went through the portal.
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Message #134
Re: IC - Exploration by 293291 Storyteller (GM)
Tue, 03 Oct 2017 17:26:05 GMT
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There is suddenly a discomfort amongst the orcs, and in the distance you could almost swear you heard thunder echoing through the skies. Cresting over the hilltop, you see the knights of the would-be king, their armour reflecting the early afternoon sunlight, their banners held high. Though fewer in number than last night, they seem eager to push the fighting as they notice the Orcs and company in the field below.
Voices shout out as they charge towards the mill, swords held high as the orcs roar back, grabbing at weapons and shields. Apparently the large fire has drawn some unwanted attention...
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Message #135
Re: IC - Exploration by 293510 Jix
Wed, 04 Oct 2017 19:53:53 GMT
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Just as Jix lied down to sleep he heard the Voices of the Orks, so he ran out.
"Can't we get a minute downtime? That would be the third or fourth battle in 48 hours"
He looks around to see were the tall man is who came with the Orks.
"Get them out of the open! Don't let them be overrun by the horses as last time"
After that Jix looks at the charging knights to find a leader who stays aside or leads the charge.
"Guys support the Orks, I'll try to get their leader"
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Message #136
Re: IC - Exploration by 293291 Storyteller (GM)
Thur, 05 Oct 2017 14:35:17 GMT
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The lead horse seems the obvious leader, as they come charging down the valley towards the raging river. The horses seem unwilling to try and cross the river though, and even though pushed, the momentum is obviously lost as they find the river to be a greater obstacle than expected. After some unheard discussion, they point downriver and begin riding in that direction, seemingly looking for a place to cross and finish the charge.
The orcs take advantage of this situation, and begin setting up a 2-tier barricade should the horses somehow get past the river, and the fire that is spreading southward. Rolling boulders, they seem intent on making it possible to hinder any ridden charge in their direction.
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Message #137
Re: IC - Exploration by 293510 Jix
Thur, 05 Oct 2017 16:28:57 GMT
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As Jay saw the leader told the others "Focus their leader, if he's dead they most likely won't have a commander left"
Then he takes some of his things and starts going downriver following the riders.
"I'll scout ahead, maybe help the Orks with the barricades"
Then he disappears in some bushes.
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Message #138
Re: IC - Exploration by 293291 Storyteller (GM)
Fri, 06 Oct 2017 21:31:45 GMT
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The orcs continue mounting their coming defense as the cavalry pushes further south in an effort to get past the river. Meanwhile Jix dives into the bushes along the river heading south as well. By staying close to the river, he is able to avoid most of the heat of the prairie fire that is spreading in a southwesterly direction. Soon the horsemen are but a distant movement, barely perceptable against the rest of the horizon.
Jix is alone, far from the mill... that's when he notices the shadow, a creature working its way nortward along the river. A lumbering shadow that seems completely out of place.
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Message #139
Re: IC - Exploration by 293510 Jix
Sat, 07 Oct 2017 22:24:54 GMT
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Jix tries to follow the shadow northward going from one low ground to the next one.
He looks at the shadow trying to make out anymore details while he stalks the shadow.
"What is that thing? We have enough problems without it"
"Lets hope the three guys come back fairly soon, we'll need them"
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Message #140
Re: IC - Exploration by 293291 Storyteller (GM)
Sun, 08 Oct 2017 08:09:44 GMT
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It doesn't take much effort to realize what the creature is... it's the warg that, in the previous fight, had been injured... which led to a scuffle between it and the orc it had held. Apparently, the Orc was not the winner of the battle, and the Warg is drinking water from the river bed, limping on 3 legs as it tries to mend its wounds.
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Message #141
Re: IC - Exploration by 293510 Jix
Sun, 08 Oct 2017 16:25:21 GMT
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Jix slowly walks towards the Warg, trying not to scare him.
"Hey big one, I won't hurt you. Everything is alright"
He slowly comes closer, his left hand stretched out towards the warg, the right one on his short-sword.
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Message #142
Re: IC - Exploration by 293291 Storyteller (GM)
Mon, 09 Oct 2017 09:40:52 GMT
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Jix approaches the warg, intent on trying to show non-hostility (Animal Handling DC 20). The warg on the other hand, upon seeing the rat-like creature step from the shadows, immediately snarls and growls at him, though an occasional yip comes from the beast as it tries to hide its pain.
Maiko wakes up, lost in the darkness. It takes a few moments for her to remember the situation she's in, that she'd decided to be one of the ones to go downstairs and nap in the early-day while others stood watch over the Orcs. Now however, there was a ruckus going on outside, the orcs seem to be howling a bit, and growling some more. Apparently something outside was bothering them. Once she gets up, she makes her way back up to the ground floor, and out the door, just in time to see the last of that cavalry army heading downriver in search of a passage across the water.
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Message #143
Re: IC - Exploration by 293510 Jix
Mon, 09 Oct 2017 22:56:00 GMT
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Jix tries to stay calm, still approaching the warg slowly.
"Everything will be alright, I will bring you back" he says hoping the voice helps calming him and the warg. His right hand still lies on his sword ready to jump aside every second and defend himself.
He approaches the warg till only a meter is between the warg and his hand and waits, hoping the warg would not attack him.
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Message #144
Re: IC - Exploration by 296566 Maiko
Mon, 09 Oct 2017 23:02:41 GMT
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Maiko headed out of the Mill, arching her back in a pleased stretch letting her muscles unwind. Her clothes still in her dancers garb with sheer top and multiple scarves for a long skirt, she left her backpack inside though carried her scimitar on her back. She had been lucky to avoid conflict so far in her time here but her blood was starting to pump and she felt by fire's will it wouldn't be that way forever as she stepped into the fresh air with a happy sigh.
"Good morning!"
She chirped, as if the end of the world of sorts wasn't upon them and her eyes almost instinctively tracked the orcs that where howling and then the cavalry. Oh that wasn't good. At all. But then.... well they knew the general direction the riders would come from so better. Sashaying outside she took in the surrounding area's to see if there was anything else to take notice of.
"Seems like today is shaping up to be difficult.... seems fun!" Maiko said to herself, wondering where she could help.
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Message #145
Re: IC - Exploration by 293291 Storyteller (GM)
Tue, 10 Oct 2017 12:22:26 GMT
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The canine beast wanted nothing to do with this rat looking creature, and reacted to his ploy of friendship with a quick snap of his sharp teeth. Standing on three legs, he moves forward, a burning hatred in his eyes. (Initiative)
Maiko steps out, and several Orcs look over at her. While the other non-orcs seemed occupied within the mill, this creature had stepped out, and was alone amongst a rather large bunch of rowdy and war-ready orcs. "qatlh Qo' bImatlhba' boqta' qu'mo Sajmey, maHvaD qeq ghob QaH", called out one of them to her. Though it was difficult to tell, given the general smirky-ness of the orcs, it could almost be assumed that the ugly creature was propositioning the young human.
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Message #146
Re: IC - Exploration by 293510 Jix
Tue, 10 Oct 2017 18:58:11 GMT
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The moment the warg snaps forward Jix draws his sword in a fluid move while he jumps forward (Charge).
With a fast, precise strike he hits the warg clean at the neck and instantly kills it.
His heart was pumping as Jix swipes his blade over the fur of the warg, cleaning it.
"Now it over you poor one, you finally found peace" he says before he makes his way back to the mill.
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Message #147
Re: IC - Exploration by 296566 Maiko
Tue, 10 Oct 2017 22:37:08 GMT
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Maiko smiled cheerfully and waved at the Orcs, not entirely sure what he was saying but well.... guys were generally the same across the races. That said she also didn't take offense, scary situations did tend to amp ones sex drive or so she had found.
"Thanks but I'm totally clueless on what you said. I don't speak orc!"
She hummed and sashayed through the camp wondering if she'd be able to help or if she'd just be waiting for the knights to arrive. As much as she would like to help more, honestly she worried she'd get in the way. Tapping her foot in a decent beat she looked around taking everything in as she sighed.
"Dang it, I feel kinda useless. But I'm worried I'll get in the way. Those Knights aren't gonna come at us slowly after all."
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Message #148
Re: IC - Exploration by 293291 Storyteller (GM)
Wed, 11 Oct 2017 09:47:26 GMT
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For some reason, the loud yip of the dying worg drew the attention of Maiko, if nobody else. As it practically impaled itself on Jix's sword, it yelped in pain, falling to the side. Jix takes a momemt to wipe the blade clean on the pelt of the cadaver, when he notices that, between a couple of rocks in the ground, there's a hole that seems to go rather deep. The hole seems to produce a heat which, given the nature of underground caves, is rather unusual.
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Message #149
Re: IC - Exploration by 293510 Jix
Thur, 12 Oct 2017 17:12:01 GMT
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Jix slowly walks towards the hole, his sword ready and tries to listen if he hears something.
After sometime, in which he test if the air isn't to hot for him and breathable, he enters the hole, every inch of his body pent up waiting for something to happen.
He silently (take ten stealth) makes is way in, and follows the way until he finds something of interest (take ten perception).
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Message #150
Re: IC - Exploration by 293291 Storyteller (GM)
Thur, 12 Oct 2017 17:20:30 GMT
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As Jix begins his descent, he notices that the ground here is hard and slippery. Fortunately there is a rope tied to a rock here which was never used, as if its previous owner had suddenly disappeared.
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Message #151
Re: IC - Exploration by 293510 Jix
Thur, 12 Oct 2017 17:55:00 GMT
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After Jix notices the rope he uses it to safely go deeper without really asking himself what happened to the previous owner. He holds the rope with his left hand, not letting go of his sword in the right one.
"Thats a bad idea, lets hope it will work out" he thinks while he disappears deeper in the hole.
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Message #152
Re: IC - Exploration by 296566 Maiko
Thur, 12 Oct 2017 21:22:08 GMT
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Maiko headed for the loud yip curious and worried only to find the poor warg that had been slain. Carefully she examined it to see if the poor thing could be saved, though honestly not even sure it’s a good idea.(take 10 heal skill). After that she would look around carefully, confused on what had happened to the beast and curious.
"And just what has happened here i wonder?" She bummed softly to herself, hair casually floating along in the winds as her eyes gleamed with intrigue.
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Message #153
Re: IC - Exploration by 293291 Storyteller (GM)
Fri, 13 Oct 2017 05:25:26 GMT
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The hole turns out to be as slippery as ice, despite the heat emanating from it. Suddenly, with no grip for his feet, Jix slips and begins a hand-burning descent down the hole before he is able to grab the rope tightly enough by releasing his sword, allowing it to fall down the hole so he can hold onto the rope with both hands.
The beast is dead, short of a resurrection spell, any attempts to revive it would obviously be an effort in futility, based on the various lacerations and the deep hole buried into the place its heart use to beat.
A scuffling sound by some rocks draws Maiko's attention, As she approaches the hole, she sees a very fine rope attached to a rock, taut and vibrating as if something or someone were currently using it to descend into the hole.
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Message #154
Re: IC - Exploration by 296566 Maiko
Fri, 13 Oct 2017 05:41:24 GMT
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Maiko left the dead beast where it lay only to examine the hole with noises coming out of it and a taut rope. Vaguely she feared something was climbing up and out of the darkness but since the rope was tied up here she doubted it. Was someone exploring now of all times?
Quietly she picked up a small pebble and murmured a soft spell (Cast: Light) upon the pebble. Noticing it now radiating like a torch she leaned over curiously and dropped the pebble down the hole while watching to see both what was in it and how deep it was as she called out.
"Hello? Can I ask why you're hiding in a hole?"
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Message #155
Re: IC - Exploration by 293510 Jix
Sat, 14 Oct 2017 08:00:23 GMT
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Jix hears the call from above, "HELP!", he shouts back, surprising even himself that his instinct for survival trumped his desire to go unnoticed. He held on with both paws, trying to pull his way upwards, but finds he lacks the strength to do more than hold on tightly, his feet clambering against the rock wall seeking any sort of traction against the slippery stone. "It's very slippery down here... can you pull me up?", he yells again in a hoarse voice.
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Message #156
Re: IC - Exploration by 296566 Maiko
Sat, 14 Oct 2017 14:45:42 GMT
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Maiko sighed wishing she was stronger as she looked carefully for something she could loop the rope around, a rock or at worst the beast itself as she grabbed the rope carefully and began to pull. "You're going to have to try to help here, I'm not that strong!" She chimed out loudly and pulled, pulled and pulled as much as she can on the rope to try and help the person down the tunnel out. Walking backwards with hands tightly gripping the rope as she tried to use her slender weight to help with the dragging.
Why did she sign up to help this person again? Ugh, the downsides of caring. There should be a spell for this, if only she knew it. Maiko was not pleased with physical labor like this, that was for sure.
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Message #157
Re: IC - Exploration by 293291 Storyteller (GM)
Sat, 14 Oct 2017 20:40:40 GMT
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The rope is taut, and any attempts to pull it are efforts in futility. Whatever the solution, single-handed brute force was not going to be a solution. Down below, Jix is able to finally get a minor foothold with clawed feet. Precarious at best, it at least provides him with some repose from hanging by his arms, allowing him to shift his weight some. However, climbing progress is non-existent.
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Message #158
Re: IC - Exploration by 293291 Storyteller (GM)
Mon, 16 Oct 2017 08:11:49 GMT
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Sarai watches Kaiko disappear along the treeline where it meets the river. Though thinking nothing of it at first, she notices two orcs follow behind a short moment later, one of them being the one that had previously commented lewdly towards her. Something within her senses an imminent threat to the young and rather naive looking human female, giving her feet wings towards the pair. Catching up to the Orcs, just in time to see Kaiko straining heavily against a rope that is buried into the ground, Sarai somehow surprises the pair of orcs, knocking both with a low centered shoulder push, sending them both sprawling into the river where they are caught by the strong current and swept further away.
Kaiko is understandably surprised by the loud splash and grunts of the Orcs, but upon turning around, sees only a strapping lass, looking brawny enough to put even most of the Orcs to shame.
Harsk looks left from his treetop position, and raises an eyebrow as two Orcs come flailing past in a most comical fashion, as they get swept downstream. How they arrived in their predicament is not immediately visible to him.
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Message #159
Re: IC - Exploration by 296566 Maiko
Mon, 16 Oct 2017 12:12:23 GMT
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Maiko looked up and back at the splashing, grunting, and strapping young woman that appeared from nowhere. She could try to figure out just what had happened and was going on... yet right now her arms felt on fire trying to tug the squirming person up by the rope. Why, why would you climb down a slippery tunnel? Ignoring the fact she had totally been considering it when she found it as well of course.
After a moments consideration, her course was rather clear as she glanced at Sarai. Bright blue eyes locked on hers, cheeks flushed from tugging and put on a pout. Damn it this guy was heavy. "Help please? This guy heres trapped in a well... or whatever else this thing is supposed to be? And I am not a strong woman... uff."
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Message #160
Re: IC - Exploration by 296656 Harsk
Mon, 16 Oct 2017 16:22:26 GMT
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In reply to Storyteller (msg # 158):
Harsk climbs,down from his position. Going to where he tied up his horse, he rides to where the two orcs came from, curious as to what caused them to be waterlogged. He stays alert, since the battle is far from over.
Survival/Tracking 19 on d20+10.
Perception 22 on d20+10.
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Message #161
Re: IC - Exploration by 296707 Sarai
Mon, 16 Oct 2017 20:56:04 GMT
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"It's a good thing I am, then!" she called to the lovely redhead. She puffed out her upper body a little as she approached, just to emphasize that point, but she didn't need to. She was clearly a massive, awe inspiring figure. She was clearly human, and taller than most men, and had the physique of a marble statue goddess come to life, only more muscular, more powerful.
Somehow, she retains feminine proportions. Her waist is tiny, her hips bloom out from it, her impressive breasts push well out from a powerful chest, and her shoulders are broad and imposing. And the muscle, it's everywhere. She has muscles in places where most people don't have places. While her skin is bulging with muscles, there is enough fat on her body that she doesn't look weathered or veiny. Strategic placements on her hips, butt and her breasts, and a healthy layer over her whole body just to give her skin a pleasantly feminine smoothness. Still, the gorgeous amazon looks like the kind of woman you wouldn't want to cross without an army behind you.
"Just a second, Lassie," she called to Maiko as she approached in a deep, resonant but surprisingly soft voice. "We'll have your friends out before you know it." She crouched down and took the rope in one hand, then hoisted it up slowly, and smoothly pulling it up, but making sure whoever was on the other end had a chance to hang on.
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Message #162
Re: IC - Exploration by 293291 Storyteller (GM)
Tue, 17 Oct 2017 07:48:29 GMT
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Coming around the bend, Harsk witnesses a rather strange sight. A woman worthy of his attentions is pulling a rope out of the ground hand over hand, almost as if she were posing for would likely qualify as the most humanly-beautiful woman he's ever seen. Though lacking in certain musculature that makes a real woman something of interest, there is an undeniable allure to the woman, and her muscular companion even. As you draw closer, the face of a giant rat can be seen emerging from the hole, clinging tightly to the rope with very humanoid-like hands.
Though not yet free of the hole, Jix is pulled far enough forward that his ever scratching feet are able to get a slightly better foothold, though not enough to pull himself out yet.
As Sarai and Maiko observe the rat creature being pulled from the hole, it seems rather obvious to Sarai that the weight bearing on the rope is greater than what this rat-like creature should be weighing. There's obviously something else attached to the end of the rope other than this rat... could be more rats... could be some sort of anchor... could be something other.
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Message #163
Re: IC - Exploration by 293510 Jix
Tue, 17 Oct 2017 08:46:48 GMT
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As Jix got pulled out of the hole he immediately started to check if any of his things are missing, only to stop in his tracks and look at the two women.
"Ah, thank you. Thank you for getting me out of this misery. I own you one"
He looks around, and sees no army.
"So you are not from this army then? Are you survivors too? Oh i forgot my manners. I'm Jix a little to ambiguous, as it seems, alchemist and townsfolk"
Only then he notices the that these two are still pulling on the rope.
"I don't know what is down there. But i can help you pull it up if you want me to."
After that he looks down the hole and screams: "Hey who are you? Ork, undead or survivor? You got a name? Mine is Jix"
Waiting for an answer he readies himself to help pull the rope
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 02:47, Tue 17 Oct 2017.
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Message #164
Re: IC - Exploration by 296656 Harsk
Tue, 17 Oct 2017 08:56:39 GMT
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Seated atop a roan stallion, a hobgoblin in mithril armor appears around the hill and rides to a stop. Seeing the ratman pulled up by rope, and noting there is still weight on the rope, he says casually "do you require assistance? The Shaman told me we had human and gnome allies here. I take it that you are all part of the same group?
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Message #165
Re: IC - Exploration by 296566 Maiko
Tue, 17 Oct 2017 09:06:51 GMT
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"he's a rat?" Makai mumbles to herself in shocked disbelief, a rat man was new on her though she had heard of them before. Her inner fox pointed out rats were food much to her sudden cringe as she nearly dropped the rope, she had come to terms with herself long ago but ew. No. Thank heavens Sarai was so strong as she shook her head absently to focus back on what was happened, beaming a smile at Sarai. "Not my friends.... yet. but I'mma helper. Thanks so much miss!"
She gave the still heavy rope a tug or two in confusion, trying to figure out what else could be down there while Jix and then Harsk introduced themselves. Had they disturbed a rat man burrow? Did ratmen live in burrows? Where their rat women and if not... no no better to focus on the conversation. She flashed another bright smile at the others around her, happy she had been helpful. “Names Maiko, just a wanderer and a survivor. I’m a dancer though, being an alchemist sounds like a blast...” she tried to restrain the silly grin at her pun but failed miserably “...but there’s just something too entrancing about losing yourself to the music of the world.”
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Message #166
Re: IC - Exploration by 296707 Sarai
Tue, 17 Oct 2017 15:44:45 GMT
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Sarai's face betrayed the shock of realizing she was pulling a rat man out of the hole, but her grip didn't waver. "Either you're heavier than you look, or there are some more of you down there."
She didn't hesitate to think about what else she was pulling up. She was doing it to show off for the beautiful dancer as much as for any other reason. She wasn't going to let up. She kept pulling up the rope hand over hand, oblivious to the hobgoblin approaching them until he spoke.
"No, I'm good," she replied to the newcomer trying not to associate him with the orcs she'd just dispatched. She kept pulling, shoulders bulging with the effort. "I'm Sarai" she replied to the various introductions. The introductory hugs would have to wait until her arms were free.
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Message #167
Re: IC - Exploration by 296656 Harsk
Tue, 17 Oct 2017 16:33:05 GMT
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"Harsk" the hobgoblin says in response. "If I tied the one end of the rope to my horse's pommel and backed him up, it would take some of the strain from your arms" he suggests. " I'm a scout for the army. Been fighting undead for the last week. Gotta say, this is a welcome change."
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Message #168
Re: IC - Exploration by 293291 Storyteller (GM)
Tue, 17 Oct 2017 18:02:23 GMT
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Jix is pulled out of the hole, and joins in the efforts to pull forward whatever seems to be trapped below. It takes a few moments, but a head with pure white hair is next seen, attached to a tiny pair of arms that seem to be reaching maximum capacity of duress. The hands hold on to the very end of the rope, and look quite rope-burned from the grip.
As Zylphyr is pulled from the hole, you see that a rope is attached to him, tied around his boot, and he seems to be straining from the weight of whatever is trying to pull him back into the hole.
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Message #169
Re: IC - Exploration by 293521 Zylphyr
Tue, 17 Oct 2017 18:15:49 GMT
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"The rope! Someone grab the other rope, please!", Zylphyr practically begs, though a part of him isn't caring if someone grabs the rope, or just cuts it. The strain is intense as he releases the rope he was holding, allowing the last bit of the rope to be in the hands of the massive woman.
While not a great burden, thanks to Timothy weighing practically nothing at the moment, the small wisp of a boy looks tinier than a single leg of Sarai. As a matter of fact, the only indication at all that it is a boy and not a teen girl, is the adam's apple in his throat, and lack of a bosom. His ears are pointed, indicative of an elven heritage, and his frame seems about as frail as a bird. Definitely not strong enough to be holding the weight that drapes on the rope attached to his foot.
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Message #170
Re: IC - Exploration by 296707 Sarai
Tue, 17 Oct 2017 21:04:24 GMT
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Sarai was surprised to see Zylphyr, but she knew her role here and surprise wasn't part of it. Pulling, then more pulling, that was her lot for now.
As soon as Zylphyr appeared she grabbed one of his wrists, none too gently, and hauled him up over the lip of the hole. Then, seeing the rope on his ankle, shrugged and grabbed onto that one, wondering how many more were going to be coming up. The hole didn't really look that big.
She shrugged at Harsk's offer to tie the rope to his horse, intended as a 'do what you need to' gesture. "If you want, go ahead, grab the end," she replied, though there wasn't really any strain in her voice, and presumably not much in her arms either.
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Message #171
Re: IC - Exploration by 296656 Harsk
Wed, 18 Oct 2017 08:00:08 GMT
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Harsk rides forward and dismounts. He grabs the end of the rope and secures it to his pommel, then backs the horse up. Thus aiding a woman who didn't need the help. "What were all of you doing down there? Starting a rat colony?"
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Message #172
Re: IC - Exploration by 293516 Xali (editor)
Wed, 18 Oct 2017 11:33:37 GMT
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Xali knew that whatever was happening, it was for the best. The back of her head was gliding against the slick, muddy stone walls, which wasn't ideal, but at least it wasn't painful, and upward movement was far preferable to the alternative. After a few short jerk she seemed to notice the walls getting brighter and just as she realized that she was about to be out of the hole, she was.
Lying on the ground the gnome smiled, just enjoying the view of the sky for a moment before assessing the area around her and working to undo Timothy's knots. As she looked around she saw Jix among her saviors and did the quick mental gymnastics to piece together that the others must be new residents of the mill. "So, good news and bad news. The bad news is that when some bard writes the tale of a group of adventures killing a giant wyvern, you all won't be included. The good news is we found one heck of a fall back position. Now, which way to a stream, I am in dire need of a wash and it's been a day or so since we've slept... "
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Message #173
Re: IC - Exploration by 296566 Maiko
Wed, 18 Oct 2017 14:29:10 GMT
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Maiko released the rope, slightly boggling as more and more people where drawn from the hole as she sat on her butt and blinked slowly. One... two... wow a rope connected to a shoe. Wait what? She leaned her head back to take in Sarai casually tugging them all out with a confused giggle.
"You ever pluck a strawberry only to find its like three grown together? That kinda feels like this."
She was highly amused by the whole event, and idly wondered if the slippery tunnel was just an attraction for people who couldn't get back out. It explained the rope and lack of people at least when she arrived.
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Message #174
Re: IC - Exploration by 293521 Zylphyr
Wed, 18 Oct 2017 14:57:45 GMT
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Sarai finds that, when she grabs Zylphyr's arm, it's hard as metal... strong enough in durability that even squeezing her tightest seems like it would be an endeavor in futility. Still, he is grateful to be back on ground for a moment, and as Sarai pulls up the rope, the rope attached to his foot seems to just magically untie itself as he sighs in audible relief.
"Thank you", he begins, "I am thankful for your...", at which point he pauses, looking south. "Malachai?", he asks as he points south.
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Message #175
Re: IC - Exploration by 296656 Harsk
Wed, 18 Oct 2017 15:18:12 GMT
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Harsk answers "Yes. He had a regiment of Knights about halfway across the stream. The first few have crossed it completely." Harsk recounts his horse and untied the rope from the pommel. He had a duty to report this to the Shaman before he jumped into the next fight.
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Message #176
Re: IC - Exploration by 293928 Timothy
Wed, 18 Oct 2017 16:02:47 GMT
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As Zylphyr and Xali were pulled up, the rope suddenly lightened and there was no feeling there was anything else at end of the rope...but rope moved and soon a man floated up from the hole. He floated soon mid-air from the hole and he grabbed rope which tied to Xali pull himself over to ledge of the pit and slowly then float down on the ground.
He looked all gathered on the hole, noticing Jix he nods to him and adds after Xali; "Indeed, albeit it's hell of a way get out from the retreat spot and so going to that hole leads to one way trip down and it's quite seriously long fall as there is river of lava down there. Whatever shadowy gate was in mill led to deep to underground." Timothy looked much more paler than before he disappeared in the mill long while ago.
Once hearing knights are coming he frowns and replies; "Well that case I need to find good spot to fire arrows again, I have couple arrows with name Malachai written on them. Which direction is the mill from here?" Once knowing direction he starts head there on haste, much as he can anyways. He does glance on Sarai, Maiko and Harsk as he passes but he got lot more things to worry about then these two.
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Message #177
Re: IC - Exploration by 296707 Sarai
Thur, 19 Oct 2017 04:14:57 GMT
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"Aye, strawberries! That's exactly what this lot are making me think of." she replied to Maiko as they pulled one after the other out of the hole.
With everyone out she rested a while. At the gnomes question She nodded in the direction of the water, "I threw a few orcs in a stream a little ways back that way. think they must have been washed out to sea by now, should be safe. A swim sounds lovely, but it sounds like some of your friends are looking for another fight. Not going to join them?"
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Message #178
Re: IC - Exploration by 293510 Jix
Thur, 19 Oct 2017 07:52:30 GMT
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Jix was relived to see Zylphyr, Xali and Timothy.
"Welcome back you three, sounds like you had quite an adventure. Maybe caught a sword the way up? May have lost mine "
Then he looks south.
"Yeah we should go back to the mill, and I haven't slept an hour more then you guys"
After that he packs his things and makes himself ready to leave.
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Message #179
Re: IC - Exploration by 293291 Storyteller (GM)
Thur, 19 Oct 2017 08:55:35 GMT
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As expected, looking downriver shows that the army of Malachai has indeed found a crossing point, and is making their way across the river bed. Though it looks like they may be having trouble with it, the endeavor is not likely to last much longer. Looking upwards, it becomes obvious that there's not a lot of time left in the day, and if the Shaman is correct, by the time the followers of Malachai arrive, it won't be only the living who will be raiding the Mill.
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Message #180
Re: IC - Exploration by 293521 Zylphyr
Thur, 19 Oct 2017 09:29:17 GMT
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Zylphyr shook Jix hand after a moment, "Thanks for your assist my friend, but I think we should make haste back to the Mill. I don't think we accomplished what the Shaman had expected of us...", and as his hand left Jix's hand, the sword appeared as if my magic the furry claw-like hand of the Ratfolk. With that, he grabbed Xali by the hand, helping her back to her feet, "Come my lady, we will be limited on time in seeing if something we brought back will be of use in this evening's battle.", and began to jog back towards the mill.
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Message #181
Re: IC - Exploration by 296566 Maiko
Thur, 19 Oct 2017 13:59:46 GMT
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"Thank you so much for your help Sarai." Maiko chimed as she hopped to her feet, brushing off bits of dust and grass from where she sat as she saw everyone turn to focus on the knights and even a few of the others take off towards the mill. With night creeping upon them and dangers abound, she couldn't really argue with their demands. She had been about to ask if anyone was hurt but... whatever.
"We better go catch up with them, the nights around here are dangerous and invading armies always suck the fun out of things. Tsk."
With a light shaking of her head she headed for the mill as well, waiting for Sarai to join her as she absently gazed at Zylphyr and Xali holding hands. She knew some couples liked height differences though so whatever worked for them. "Cute couple though, I'm glad they both got out of that hole okay"
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Message #182
Re: IC - Exploration by 293516 Xali (editor)
Thur, 19 Oct 2017 16:17:54 GMT
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Xali gave Maiko a queer look at her comment, the idea that she'd be attracted to someone so.. tall. "I'm not sure the Shaman really knew what he expected of us if I'm any judge, but you're right, we should absolutely make our way over there, especially since a nap doesn't seem likely." Xali pulled out her waterskin and leaned back, letting the water spill through her hair. The water managed to wash some of it out, leaving her bright green hair hanging behind her. She shook her hair out, hoping it would dry quickly and start poking up as it was supposed to soon. Placing her waterskin back she started jogging after Zylphyr, looking at those around her and trying to take in all the newcomers. "I'm still a bit confused, what's transpired in the time we've been gone?"
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Message #183
Re: IC - Exploration by 296707 Sarai
Fri, 20 Oct 2017 02:59:57 GMT
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She didn't understand any of this, but she seemed used to that. Happy to have helped she moved to stand beside the beautiful red headed woman, loomingbeside her. She was the only one who seemed to make sense at the moment.
"Any time, Lassie. My pleasure."
She watched Timothy run off, replying, "Yeah, it's always best to stick together. They do seem determined to do some violence. she laughed, "I think maybe we all just have a different idea of fun than you, maybe?"
She looked at Maiko as they walked, a little confused at first, then at Xali and Zylphyr, then back at Maiko and shrugged.
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Message #184
Re: IC - Exploration by 293510 Jix
Fri, 20 Oct 2017 07:08:04 GMT
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Jix almost does a leap of joy as he got his sword back
"Thank you Zylphyr, I don't know what i would do without it. Oh I hope it didn't hit any of you, did it?
He sheds his sword and starts running off with the rest. Only looking confused at Maiko as she mentions that Xali and Zylphry look like a nice couple Did i miss something?
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Message #185
Re: IC - Exploration by 293291 Storyteller (GM)
Fri, 20 Oct 2017 09:34:16 GMT
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Arriving back at the mill, the entourage of warriors find a rather surprised Shaman in meditation next to the river. She looked at Harsk as he approached, the surprised look only mildly converting to relief. Before anyone can speak, she speaks up, "Everyone was disappearing one by one... I just assumed that you had all decided to leave before the next battle. I am grateful to see that you have returned. What news? Has Malachai found his way across?", she asks, looking past everyone to see if her view of the river revealed anything. Only then does she notice the green hair of the gnome racing up from behind, Zylphyr along with her. This time the relief is very visible and the smile spreads across her face, along with an audible sigh of relief.
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Message #186
Re: IC - Exploration by 293928 Timothy
Fri, 20 Oct 2017 11:33:57 GMT
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Timothy moved to the mill and as they arrived to the shaman he asks (in orcish); "yIqIm vay' jIHMej vor Suq vo' tar? jIH Hot ngoDqoq luHar pretty pujchoH 'ej pa' tugh 'e' may'. mu'aw' Doch pretty let." Then Timothy takes out from his bag a tail of....something with a stinger albeit it was bigger and thicker than Sarai's forearm in thickness and even now venom crept from the tip.
Timothy then adds in common; "Not sure did we find anything help against the horde of undead, some treasures were found but so far nothing ground breaking. Perhaps one these items which I randomly picked up is significance somehow." Timothy then turns his bag inside out, spilling out lot more content than what should normally fit inside to such bag. Bringing forth lots of gold and valuable items onto the ground.
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Message #187
Re: IC - Exploration by 293516 Xali (editor)
Fri, 20 Oct 2017 12:54:17 GMT
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Xali follows Timothy in to the mill and once the sniper starts showing what he'd found, Xali adds what she'd found. "I've also found this horn which seems to conjure up a mist, this fancy little net bracelet thing, and this shirt which I'm awfully fond of." She lays the things in front of her. "How long have we been gone? The last thing we remembered from here was crossing the threshold upstairs and then the three of us were disembodied voices that had to materialize. I'll be frank, I'm on the verge of having a complete mental collapse with what's happened over the last three days and really any glimmer of hope or normalcy would be incredibly helpful right now." Xali realized she was rambling at this point and letting her fears be laid bare, but she couldn't stop herself. Just a few days ago she was living comfortably as a student, now everyone she knew and loved was dead and it seemed like there was endless wave after endless wave of horrors coming at her and those around her.
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Message #188
Re: IC - Exploration by 296656 Harsk
Fri, 20 Oct 2017 13:51:32 GMT
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In reply to Storyteller (msg # 185):
Harsk points towards the stream. "A contingent of Malachai's Knights are about halfway across the stream. The first few have made it all the way across. I intend to hold them at that choke point as long as possible, using the abundant cover available. " Harsk draws his twin blades, looking deadly.
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Message #189
Re: IC - Exploration by 293521 Zylphyr
Fri, 20 Oct 2017 14:35:15 GMT
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Zylphyr remains quiet as the adults do the talking. Skulking in the shadows, he waits to see if anything is to be prepared before the coming battle. Finally he walks over to Jix, "We should use our stealth to ambush from the sides in the coming battle.", he says in a barely audible whisper into the furry ear of the ratfolk, "Knights are powerful because of their lances and horses, they are weak on the sides, and if we can break them before they hit the Orcs, they may stand a chance."
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Message #190
Re: IC - Exploration by 296566 Maiko
Fri, 20 Oct 2017 17:50:10 GMT
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Maiko arrived with Sarai as the others talked, flashing the amazon a wicked smile. The others were all kinds of tense and cautious, where as Maiko was loose and playful. Hips swaying, a wide smile on her lips and a look on her face like she was heading for a festival rather then combat. One had to wonder if she actually understood they were in a dangerous situation.
"I suppose they do, Life's too short to stress out though. I'll dance as much as I please in the mean time."
Idly she glanced at the pile of loot, wondering where those had come from but assumed someone had a magical bag of some sort. Maiko herself wasn't even carrying a backpack, she was coming back within the hour so why bother lugging it about? Vaguely she wondered just what was going to happen and what mischief people planned to get into.
"Ambushes and Knights and Undead. This sounds like a novel. How fun!" Contrary to Harsks deadly seriousness, her voice lilted and carried as she giggled happily. Life was certainly far from boring.
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Message #191
Re: IC - Exploration by 296707 Sarai
Fri, 20 Oct 2017 19:15:52 GMT
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Sarai stood close to Maiko, and echoed her relaxed mood. Though perhaps not as playful as the dancer, she was certainly in a pleasant mood, and the terror and tragedy didn't seem to be grinding on her at all. If anything she seemed to relish the prospect of impending violence.
"See, that's what I was saying!" she burst out at Maiko's this would be fun like a novel. "Invading armies can be all kinds of fun. Glad you're coming around!" She gave the dancer a playful shove on the shoulder and beamed a smile at her.
As the others talked about impending battles, some guy named Malachi, orcs, undead and armies that meant them harm she nudged Maiko again and asked in a loud whisper, "Which side are we on?" It sounded like Malachi was their main foe, but that didn't sound right.
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Message #192
Re: IC - Exploration by 296656 Harsk
Sat, 21 Oct 2017 07:57:53 GMT
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In reply to Zylphyr (msg # 189):
Harsk hears what Zylphyr has to say, and turns in his direction." Your thoughts mirror my own" he says. "Shall we prepare a warm ambush for the mail-clad visitors?"
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Message #193
Re: IC - Exploration by 293510 Jix
Sat, 21 Oct 2017 08:19:07 GMT
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Jix listens to the group chat until Zylphyr appears and Jix starts to grin when he hears Zylphyrs idea.
"Sounds like a good idea, I'm totally in"
When Harsk join them Jix musters him.
"Yeah if you can sneak your are welcome to join us"
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Message #194
Re: IC - Exploration by 293291 Storyteller (GM)
Sat, 21 Oct 2017 16:05:23 GMT
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The Orc Shaman looked down at the green haired gnome as she approached, a look of concern on her face... "This is not right, where is the rest of it?", she asks as she points to the horn, "This is no Cornu, this is barely a horn, we must have the rest of it!", she exclaims as she begins troddling back to the entrance of the mill. She points to the image carved over the portal, which is barely perceivable in the dimming light of day, Above the portal is an engraving of a Demonspawn, it's head adorned with a long G-shaped horn, of which the base did resemble the horn that Xali carried. "The Cornu of Demonspawn, it must be whole!", the shaman exclaims with a worrisome look as she knocked her knuckles repeatedly against her head as if trying to force ideas into her brain.
She looks back down at Xali, "You say this works still? A mist you say? How can there still be magic in a shattered artifact? This is not how the prophesy goes... Begone! I must think, go and stop the coming assault... we shall see if this cornu has any lasting power or not...", she finishes, obviously more than a little perturbed at the turn of events.
Meanwhile, the boys work out a plan that may, indeed, prove fruitful in the coming battle.
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Message #195
Re: IC - Exploration by 293521 Zylphyr
Sat, 21 Oct 2017 16:44:19 GMT
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Zylphyr swallowed his initial reaction as this orc-looking creature not only made it obvious that it was listening to him, but than actually spoke to him. The orcs were apparently allies now, and if he could endure the smelly rat for this long, the orc-wannabe could be endured as well. It was hard to bite back the elven upbringing he had endured, or the prejudices gained from his years on the streets avoiding thugs and the rats of the sewers. He was supposed to be part of a team now, so with the most pleasantness he could muster he nodded at the insult that they mirrored each other's thinking.
"Uu..gh..hm...", Zylphyr then coughs, "My apologies my friend, I meant no disrespect, it would be good to have you with us of course. My name is Zylphyr, and as I recall, this is Gicks. My thanks again for helping us out of that slippery situation south of here.", he mustered as he prepared to jog over to the treeline.
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Message #196
Re: IC - Exploration by 296656 Harsk
Sat, 21 Oct 2017 18:54:21 GMT
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"Not a problem" says the hobgoblin with a toothy smile. "My name's Harsk. I usually operate as scout and forward sniper for the orcs, but the Shaman says we are allies against both Malachai and the undead, and I'm not questioning him. You'll find me quite adept at stealth and deadly attacks." If they are in agreement, Harsk leads them down towards the foliage he'd noted earlier, quietly.
13:54, Today: Harsk rolled 34 using 1d20+16 with rolls of 18. Stealth.
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Message #197
Re: IC - Exploration by 293928 Timothy
Sun, 22 Oct 2017 10:51:36 GMT
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Albeit the orc shaman was upset and clearly ignored Timothy, he instead stayed for while. Doing his own preparations for battle as he checked number of arrows and overall picked up his camouflage cape out and donned it on. Feeling lot better he departs from orc shaman and heard about the plan what Zylphyr, Jinx and...the hobgoblin mercenary who just introduced himself Harsk, were planning. He said to them; "Sounds good, just beware my bear traps on the sides of the clearing. If you find them you can figure out where to run and lead pursuers if you decide to withdraw. I myself will fire death from the above behind the mill, I will try snipe key targets like commanders and captains from coming calvary or undead horde. With luck undead horde shows up and flanks Malachai's troops, it would give him bit taste of his own medicine then." There was grim sadistic smile on Timothy's lip as he said last part and he proceeds go to his usual sniping spot behind the mill, preparing for battle ahead (stealth 27, perception 18, taking 10).
Then he recalls introductions where made so he turns and looks on the new faces which had showed up and made brief bow as he said; "My name is Timothy." With that he continues climb up to his sniping spot. Hide there and patiently wait his targets to show up.
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Message #198
Re: IC - Exploration by 296707 Sarai
Mon, 23 Oct 2017 03:51:04 GMT
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"Something is wrong," she said leaning into Maiko again, her voice low, but clearly disturbed.
She looked back at the shaman and then whispered even more quietly to Maiko.
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Message #199
Re: IC - Exploration by 293510 Jix
Mon, 23 Oct 2017 07:16:29 GMT
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After Timothy left Jix took his things and double checked if everything was there.
"So lets go?" hes asks Zylphyr and Harsk.
Then Jix froze and turned around "Any idea what we gone do when the undead rise again? Hoping not to be seen?" His concern was written in his face.
And after Sarai spoke out Jix asks her "Whats wrong?"
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Message #200
Re: IC - Exploration by 293521 Zylphyr
Mon, 23 Oct 2017 07:36:02 GMT
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Zylphyr nodded at Harsk and then Timothy and Jix. "I'll keep my eyes out for the traps...", he asserts before jogging along with Harsk to the treeline.
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Message #201
Re: IC - Exploration by 296566 Maiko
Mon, 23 Oct 2017 07:47:24 GMT
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Maiko took a good look at the upset orc, having no clue what he said in his natural tongue but it was obvious he was upset about something. She couldn't truly tell what was bothering him, but either way he could see what Sarai was put off center by his behavior. Besides this entire situation was tense, well to most people. Maiko just figured it was another aspect of life. With that she leaned close to Sarai with a warm comforting smile.
"It'll be okay, I think people are just tense with all the action and such going on." Before her words dipped down a bit more quietly for Sarai.
Idly she turned to Jix and the others sneaking forward, before glancing around at the handful still here like Sarai. "I can be quiet on my feet, but It's never that fun to sneak around. Good luck guys, us girls will be here to back you up when you get in trouble and need to be saved." Maiko giggled on a whim as she stage-whispered to Sarai, flashing a playful wink to Jix "Think we'll have to save them before the night is through? Evil Knights and Heroic Princesses sounds like a story I'd read!"
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Message #202
Re: IC - Exploration by 293291 Storyteller (GM)
Mon, 23 Oct 2017 08:47:10 GMT
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Timothy begins climbing the mountainous terrain north of the mill, seeking that place he was at before which gave him a good view and vantage point from which to snipe at potential targets. However, if the cavalry were to strike at the Orcs, and not the Mill, that spot was going to be of no real use, as it would be very far out of range.
The rest of the males left the mill to the south, and once past the mill turned west towards the treeline. Orcs were amassed through the area, but left the trio of males alone as they worked their way through the assembled Orcs. Being able to stay south of the main force, the guys arrive at the treeline, and see that some of the bear traps have already been triggered. A rough looking green orc is playing with one, as if trying to reset it, though based on the damage to his arm, it was safe to say that he wasn't succeeding as much as he'd likely hoped. Based on the huge piles of leaves in the middle of the field, it was also safe to assume that they tried hiding the bear traps which were not already sprung, under not so subtle piles of leaves.
The trio continue south once they hit the treeline, marking a spot a good hundred feet south of where the battle would be if the cavalry hit the orc line. The orcs were attempting to protect themselves by stacking sharpened pieces of wood on each other to create deadly obstacles.
Meanwhile Xali, Maiko and Sarai look around and realize they are quite alone with the Shaman and his entourage of black orcs. After a bit of time, Sarai realizes that it's not just the shaman that is giving her this uneasy feeling... but all the black orcs... some sort of magic was at play here, and though she couldn't put her finger on the problem, she continued to feel it. Meanwhile, Xali and Maiko began to feel similarly uncomfortable, though the source of their discomfort was becoming painfully clear, as the leering looks of the orcs became more pronounced, now that the males they hung out with early disappeared into the distance.
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Message #203
Re: IC - Exploration by 293521 Zylphyr
Mon, 23 Oct 2017 10:02:37 GMT
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Zylphyr ignored the orcs trying to make work of the bear traps. Albeit partly because he himself had no knowledge nor interest in these things, but because he really just didn't care. Rather he made his way as a bee-line to the tree-line, climbing a tree right near the clearing through which the horses were most likely to pass. The grassland here was scorched from the fire before, and the tree itself seemed lucky enough to have survived the flames. Finding a nice crutch within the tree to rest in, he got himself comfortable before looking over to check his companions, hoping that they were hidden enough that he didn't see them. Once sure that everyone was in position and ready, he leaned back in his crutch, pulled the hood over his eyes, and fell quickly asleep. It had been a long day, and he was confident that the thundering hooves would awaken him long before it was time to get into action. And with nightfall coming soon, he wanted to be rested for the undead battle to follow.
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Message #204
Re: IC - Exploration by 293510 Jix
Mon, 23 Oct 2017 10:26:38 GMT
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Seeing Zylphyr climbing on the tree Jix looks around for a ditch at the foot of the tree, then he scrambles some cover and builds some camouflage.
Then he checks if He still can see Zylphyr and Harsk in their covers and waits, falling asleep short after.
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Message #205
Re: IC - Exploration by 293516 Xali (editor)
Mon, 23 Oct 2017 13:27:00 GMT
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Xali had been quiet while a battle plan was arranged, and the men had left, it wasn't that she didn't have anything to add, but more that she knew she needed to focus on centering herself. She wasn't going to be any help if she lost her cool, and as tired and frayed as her nerves were, she knew that was a distinct possibility. She made her way to the mezzanine, using her spyglass to get a better look at the surrounding area, and to give her some space from the black orcs. She couldn't shake the suspicion that her studies had been right and that these were innately evil creatures, tainted by the evil that Orcus possessed and exuded. Still, the little gnome knew that she thought the same or similar of most of her companions just a day ago, and so far she'd seen them risk their life, one even sacrificing his life to save theirs. So caution, but not outward distrust was in order here.
Looking at the surrounding area, a plan began to formulate in her little head and she shouted down the stairs at the shaman in their shared tongue. "Hur, neh Hur majQa' nis mah. qul DIr op bih'e avwi lugh lojmitvo mang ngeh soh lah, lah chah yitungha qah 'IvvaD chahvad chaw'nis hos woqwij nadevvo qaq. patmey lulo'ta qo'nosdaq cheghlahbe mah e hutlh hoch qastahvis tlhoj." She hoped that there wouldn't be any argument or fight over her suggestion. (Diplomacy 29)
Then she remembered the two other women, she didn't know where their skills were best suited, but the larger of the two certainly seemed like the sort that could throw a draft horse and not break a sweat. "Ladies, could you two join me up here? I don't think I've had a chance to introduce myself, and I think you might like to have a better look at the lay of the land, the sort you can get from up here."
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Message #206
Re: IC - Exploration by 296656 Harsk
Mon, 23 Oct 2017 14:19:25 GMT
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Seeing the other two set up, Harsk scouts the Knights instead, trying to gauge when they would be moving forward. Silently wishing he had picked up camoflague netting when he had the chance, Harsk studies the apparent leader of the lead unit, trying to get a feel for his planning style and method of battle.
09:20, Today: Harsk rolled 19 using 1d20+10 with rolls of 9. Perception.
09:19, Today: Harsk rolled 18 using 1d20+16 with rolls of 2. Stealth.
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Message #207
Re: IC - Exploration by 296707 Sarai
Mon, 23 Oct 2017 14:38:17 GMT
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Xali didn't need to ask her to join her. With the unease she was feeling around the orcs she wasn't about to let either the little gnome, nor Maiko out of her sights. She saw how the orcs looked at them. The fact that she was about as stealthy as an ox wasn't the only reason she hadn't joined the men. She made sure Maiko was with her, then followed Xali.
More alone upstairs now, she asked again in a low voice intended only for the other two. "I was serious when I asked earlier. We're stuck here between bad, worse and, er..." she paused for a moment to think her words escaping her, "Worser. The mill need to be protected, that's clear, but who's side are we on? Or is it just our own? who is this shaman with the black orcs? do you trust her?"
She surveyed the terrain with Xali, waiting for her plan to be revealed.
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Message #208
Re: IC - Exploration by 293516 Xali (editor)
Mon, 23 Oct 2017 15:00:34 GMT
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Xali glanced down the stairs to see if anyone followed the two women before kneeling and starting to go through her pack. And muttered to herself for a moment, then she pointed at both women and whispered, knowing that their conversation wouldn't be overheard with this spell. "This should give us some privacy. Before you two showed up, we were in a pretty violent battle with this group of orcs. The people who were here with me killed a lot of them, and I'll be honest I mostly froze. One of the orcs grabbed me and used me as a shield. Through a mix of luck, education, and diplomacy I managed to get the shaman down there not to kill me. What I didn't expect was that the shaman saw prophecy in Kane and I. So they decided to stop fighting against us and fight with us, and for whatever reason the rest of the group seemed okay with welcoming them into our arms, though I don't know what choice we really had. So to answer your questions, we're on our own side, and no, I don't trust them, but I also don't think they'll attack us until the other threats have been dealt with at the very least." As she spoke, the little woman pulled out a small book and began to page through it, giving it half of her attention.
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Message #209
Re: IC - Exploration by 296566 Maiko
Mon, 23 Oct 2017 16:44:03 GMT
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Maiko rested her hand playfully on Sarai's large arm, letting the Amazon escort her up after Xali. She had felt such dangerous situations before and while it was a bit silly, for some reason seeming 'attached' to someone else always helped ward off such situation. That said she didn't hesitate to follow up and away from the Orcs, nor did she allow her senses to dull even once they reached the upper platform and her hand left Sarai's arm.
Once Xali's silencing spell snapped into place, she released Sarai's arm and stretched lazily. Her bag unlike Xali's was stashed inside, but she also didn't like carrying a lot when she could help it and they would be coming back here. And if not well.... Maiko would survive. Her voice did stay low though so it wouldn't carry, a lilting playful tone as she stayed close to the other two.
"Sounds like a gamble but could work out well, especially if they focus on stopping the undead. But.... I'm of the opinion we barricade the doors before we sleep today, just in case yea?" She seemed to consider what Xali said about the guys and sighed deeply, absently running her hand through some hair. Maiko was laid back and playful, but she was still a woman and not oblivious to the world. "Boys can be kinda silly about such things to be fair. Remember, plenty of them make friendships hitting each other in the face. But guys aren't considered weak and vulnerable in some cultures like women are." A quiet scoff showed what she thought of that idea, but the fact remained and had been proved. The orcs seemed a lot more willing to risk a fight when the guys had wandered off. Actually....
"Wait, are the guys stupid? With a potential enemy at our camp, why did we split up?" Okay, Maiko was confused. Did they seriously not consider that at all when they ran off to play sneaky sneak? Ugh, guys!
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Message #210
Re: IC - Exploration by 293516 Xali (editor)
Mon, 23 Oct 2017 16:51:43 GMT
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Xali looked up from her book, keeping her fingers on one had pointed at the two women to keep the spell going. "That depends on the cultures. You've met the woman who's leading that group of black orcs, I doubt they consider her weak. I don't plan to barricade myself, despite my inclination to, because if they wanted to kill me, they would have a number of times already. They had the advantage in the original fight, they have the advantage now, they'll likely have it later on." As she said that Xali closed the book, seeming satisfied with what she found and started moving around the area, eying the joists and walls. (Know:Eng 30)
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Message #211
Re: IC - Exploration by 296707 Sarai
Mon, 23 Oct 2017 17:18:46 GMT
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Sarai smiled down at Maiko when the dancer took her arm, clearly enjoying playing the role of protector for the other two.
"It's not just whether we trust them, and it's not just how they look at you two. There's something wrong here, with the black orcs. It's magic, I can ... smell it. It's hard to explain, but I know there's something wrong with those black orcs. They aren't what they seem, somehow. Can you, I don't know, check them out somehow? Detect whether they have been altered somehow magically, or whether they aren't what they appear to be?" she asked Xali, clearly bothered by her instincts.
"They're men, of course they acted rashly," she growled at Maiko's question. "It's what they do. But it wouldn't make much difference with them here or out there. We're literally surrounded by orcs. Xali is right, if they wanted us dead we would be already."
"On the other hand, while I don't think we need to build barricades, I'm not going to sleep if you both are. One of us should stay awake at all times. Just because they all don't want to hurt us doesn't mean there aren't a handful who do."
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Message #212
Re: IC - Exploration by 296566 Maiko
Mon, 23 Oct 2017 18:00:07 GMT
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"I can check if you want while Xali does what she's doing, but the range is limited so we will have to see if they're in range. I'll agree with you on the fact trusting the orcs IS different from trusting them individually. As for sleeping... eh I can curl up pretty small when I sleep. But I don't like the idea of being defenseless. Watches work."
Maiko stood up and spoke quietly, flashing Sarai a wink as she spoke a quiet spell. She sauntered over to the edge with a sway of her hips, leaning her arm on the railing and gazing out with a wistful smile. Maiko seemed to be looking out towards where their companions had went, but both Sarai and Xali would notice a slight downward tilt so she could take in the orcs as well.
(OOC: Detect Magic has a Conical Range of 60'. I'm assuming from the Mezzanine gazing down at an angle I can subtly check out the Orcs?)
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Message #213
Re: IC - Exploration by 293516 Xali (editor)
Mon, 23 Oct 2017 19:00:14 GMT
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Xali let out a small chuckle, making sure to keep a finger pointed at each woman to keep the spell running. "Oh there's something wrong with them. They're orcs who have had their blood tainted by a prince of demons, they're orcs who sacrifice prisoners to Orcus. We have sided with evil, don't have any illusions about that."
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Message #214
Re: IC - Exploration by 296707 Sarai
Mon, 23 Oct 2017 19:06:24 GMT
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She shuddered and Xali's description and made a little gesture presumably meant to ward off evil spirits.
"And these are the ones we've sided with? I understand that the undead cannot be reasoned with, but is this Malachai really worse?" she hissed in a low whisper as she watched Maiko to see if she uncovered anything more.
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Last edited by MrJohnson, February 05 2018 14:56:25. Open game article. You can edit it once you log in.
Meta: path=70213/exploration | edited by=MrJohnson
