Crimson Flag Comic Forums
Other Realms => Role Play Theater => Topic started by: Jonas on March 30, 2010, 05:50:18 PM
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Ok! It starts at last! The official Crimson Flag Dungeons and Dragons Game! Before we begin, just a few ground rules:
1. Please do not post here unless you are in the game.
2. Please put anything said in character in bold and in a separate paragraph
3. You are responsible for keeping track of your own modifiers. Making a roll and then remembering later that you had a bonus will not change the result.
4. When making an action, please say what you will be doing (duh) and post your roll (under Additional Options). If an event could cause your action to change then please state the alternate action:
EXAMPLE:
"I make a Perception check to see if the door is trapped (roll). If it is then I make a Thievery check to disarm (roll). If I don't see that the door is trapped then I attempt to bash it open with a strength check (roll)."
This also applies to combat situations, and it should especially be done if there's a chance your intended target might die before your initiative order comes up.
5. Depending on the situation, I may be forced to make your character perform certain actions if you are not able to post. This will not likely happen, however.
6. Space reserved for stuff I might remember to mention later
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The town of Winterhaven lies amidst the Northwind Highlands, an ancient area with a rich history streching back to the empire of Nerath. Crumbling keeps and old military outposts are not uncommon sights for those exploring the hilly region, and it is a common target for adventurers eager to start their careers. Due to its past, the Highlands are also targets of significant scholarly interest, and it is this interest that has brought you into the area. A military historian named Parle Cranewing is interested in the ruined keep that lies near Winterhaven, and has offered a fair bit of gold to those willing to map its interior and bring back any documents they might find. Whether it be for money, reputation, or just something to do, you have all agreed to this task, and rather than compete and fight with each other for the job you have decided to work together.
This brings us to where you are now: walking along the King's Road towards Winterhaven in order to begin your task. The wind in your face is cool and comfortable. The road beneath your feet (and paws) is level. An occasional ancient cobblestone peeks through the dirt road, indicating decades of neglect. You notice footprints leading up and down the road, many of which were made by small, clawed feet.
What do you do?
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I enjoy the nice weather, taking a deep breath of fresh air and listening to the sounds around me. I make a perception check to see if I notice any creatures (perception modifier: +7). I walk slightly towards the back of the party, staying between the fighters and spellcasters.
"Well, he certainly picked a nice day to send us here."
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"I have never been fond of the sun, obscures vision, raises visibility, it's not something you want present in my line of work."
Naito looked briefly at the sun before readjusting the hood of his cloak to keep the shade of his eyes. He moves his gaze around the area, observing the area around him for creatures (Perception +7), conscious that a large group out in the open isn't preferable to stealth.
"About how much farther are these ruins? I feel naked out here."
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Heavily unnerved by the by the large amount of anthromorphic animals, Andrei buried himself in studying arcane magic ever since they had left town. He had never been outside, as he was sent to a wizardry boarding college for most of his life. In fact he had never even seen his own sister! After graduating from the college, he found himself no place to go. His family was bankrupt from the tuition fees, and so he sought to do odd jobs to help pay the debt. And that's how he ended in a mismatched group of odd mercenaries out on an expedition to some random ruin most people had never even heard of.
"I have never been fond of the sun, obscures vision, raises visibility, it's not something you want present in my line of work."
Taking a jab at his fellow accomplice in this mission, he said,(in a tongue-in-cheek manner)"Dazzled by the sunlight eh? I have seen orcs run a marathon in a dessert before and not complain."
With all that said and done, the human wizard turned to his spellbook and uttered the words "Prestidigitation". The pages seem to move by itself as if a wind turned it everytime he willed it.
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Even despite the strong sunlights were hitting his scales tirelessly, Aleph keeps walking in silence without hesitation. As his big Dragonborn steps caused a small notorious, yet bearable sound on the ground... he yet is pacified in mind, body and soul... trying to concentrate on the task in hand despite the "ice cold" of the group ambience. His spiritual companion "Stryder", a small Dragonling-shaped ghostly spirit with golden eyes was hiding under the Dragonborn's clothing and Leather armor, peeking around in curiousity of the people around the Shaman... whispering his impressions to him, as it silently giggled. Aleph snickered calmly.
We will get soon to our objective... so let's not lose our north. I suggest to save your energies instead of complaining. I am sure we will break the ice on the way... our melodies after all are here by no coincidence.
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Ssiran Fraythikk (for whom the spelling of his name may change without notice), the heavily armored Catfolk paladin walked at the forefront of the group.
He glanced at the footprints, then scanned for enemies. (Perception check, +2)
I'm sure we'll make it intact. As the shaman said, save your energy. We may need it soon.
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I look to the left at Mr. Cat-in-Shiny-Armor and flick ears in a slight annoyance.
Do you really think we're in such danger while traveling on a common road, Sir Fraythikk?
Not waiting for an answer, I slow down my trot a bit, enjoying the sunlight. As Naito, who apparently is trying to hide in plain sight, passes by, I can't suppress a snicker.
I match paces with the ranger. He's a Vale, like me... but it doesn't make talking any easier. I think no members of the party know any other yet... and I'm sure I don't.
I show neutrality with my ears and tail, then clear my throat.
Excuse me, but this got me thinking... do you recognize these tracks, by any chance?
I point to the small clawed footprints visible in the dirt.
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Check results:
Legatus is unable to notice any nearby creatures beyond those in the party and minor wildlife. Naito and Ssiran both note that the reptile-like tracks are fairly fresh and leave the road as you all near a small dip in the path.
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Sir Fraythikk glances at Rynvoor.
I think that there is danger everywhere, even in what seems the safest of places.
Ssiran moves to put himself between the party and the dip in the path, and calmly removes his sword from its sheath.
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I turn an ear, quickly followed by the rest of the head, in direction of the Paladin's voice.
What is he...
Tchan'koh!
I start running towards him, and pull the warhammer from my back on the way.
All I can think is "Is something going to happen? And will I be fast enough?"...
((If that's OK with the DM, that is.))
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"It would appear as if there is a ambush planned for us, or rather, any group planning on coming through this path. They'll probably have some form of ranged weaponry."
The rogue flipped the left side of his cloak while drawing his rapier with his right hand and readying a dagger to be throw at a moment's notice with his left.
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"Now that you mention it these do look interesting..."
I notice Ssiran drawing his sword, and unsling my musket so I can use it if I have to. Having taken that precaution, I kneel down to try and identify the tracks (nature check +7). My tail swishes absently as I analyze the tracks and I mutter under my breath,
"Hmm... small, reptilian, probably not too tough..."
When Rynvoor dashes off wielding his hammer, I get the distinct feeling that somethings gone wrong, and look at where the footprints leave the path, my musket at the ready...
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Snickering in a calm way after the sudden rise of paranoia, Aleph makes a perception check in an attempt to use his spiritual senses to check on actual real danger ahead and around the party. Meanwhile, Stryder swiftly appeared from his hiding spot under Aleph's leather armor chest, as it flew in a ghostly fashion around Aleph's head, looking at everyone in curiosity.
Please, allow me to check before anything...
He closes his eyes as he lets his spirit attempt to detect any danger around.
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Krim stops with the others as they reach the dip, silencing low caw like song he had been singing to himself, and quickly scans the area to see if he can help discern whats ahead.
(Assist Aleph on the Precip with a Precip +6, also sorry for being late.)
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Looking on as the whole group seemed to prepare for an unknown fight, he too readied a spell just in case.
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Legatus is able to identify the tracks as those belonging to kobolds, a type of small reptilian humanoid native to the region.
As Ssiran and Rynvoor follow the tracks off the paths, they come around the side of a boulder and find a kobold watching the road with a spear ready. It turns at the sound of your approach and lets out a startled shriek, "Keee! Prey hasss come behind!".
The kobold's fellows from the boulder up ahead turn and ready their own weapons. It appears you have a fight on your hands.
(http://img56.imageshack.us/img56/8610/koboldbrigands.jpg)
The black line is the "border". The black dots are enemies. The big gray ones are rocks. The path is in orange and the red square with a 1 is where Rssiran and Rynvoor are, the 2 square is where everyone else starts from. Roll initiative and declare your first action.
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Not sure if you want a single action, or a whole round, so here's a whole rounds worth of actions: Move, Standard, and minor.
First, initiative: +1
Next, I'll move to engage the nearest kobold that I can get to without charging. My move speed is 6, even in heavy armor, so I shouldn't have too much trouble, there. If I've got enough move to do so without provoking any opportunity attacks, I'd like to move so as to allow my allies to flank my target.
Then I'll use Valiant Strike (One of my at-will attacks) to attack him. +8 vs. AC. (+7 base, +1 per adjacent enemy. I'm guessing he's the only adjacent one).
If that hits, it'll deal 1d8 +4 damage.
Then I'll use my minor action to mark a target with my Divine Challenge. No roll necessary for that, just means they've got my Divine Sanction/Super mark on them. If my target didn't die, he's the one I'll be marking. If he does die, I'll mark the next closest enemy (assuming there's still another one within 5 squares).
Hmm...I can't think of any other actions I need to take, and I'm out of actions for this round, so that's it, for now.
Give no quarter. Let none survive.
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I hear the commotion, stand up and say to the others near me,
"Hostiles behind the two rocks to the northeast. I'm flanking southeast, Naito should try to get behind them, while Aleph assists the fighters."
I then move diagonally one unit southeast, and one unit east. If I have a line of sight on Kobold 2 or 3 (counting from the west) I kneel and fire my musket (+5 vs AC, 2d8+3 damage, range 15/30), with Kobold 3 taking priority.
If I am unable to establish a line of sight from that position, I move two units diagonally southeast from there and two units south. I check for line of sight again, and if I have it I take the shot with the same target priority.
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"Don't hesitate to do what must be done."
First off, initiative bonus is +4
Assuming I move before him, I move to the lower space directly next to the bolder and next to the (currently) second Kobold (counting from west to east) and make and make a sneak attack (+2d6+STR Modifier) using Torturous Strike (2[W] + DEX Modifier + STR Modifier). If the afore mentioned kobold moves before me, then replace Tortuous Strike with Riposte Strike.
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(Sorry if Im complicating things off the top, but I wanted to try this: Initiative is +1. Unless someone reaches close range with me before hand, I will move E-E-E-E-NE and: )
Sizing up the enemy Krim starting chanting in various musical tones. The words are heard as he reaches the end "and thus I smite thee! KAKA!". The sound of thunder rumbles accross the ground as a powerful blast of sound and air flies at the furthest Kobold (Thunder's Calling. In addition to damage if successful, hes pulled two squares twoards the party and an ally who can shoot him gets a free shot(being I don't know who is where on the map, Ill just let it be who can and is closist at the point).
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(Already rolled init, so gonna move to the left of Num 1 start pos (AKA taking cover by the rock) and readying action to cast Ray of Frost on the first enemy to appear in range and is in line of sight).
Dashing towards the nearest boulder, Andrei took cover and waited for one of the enemies that could pop up to show themselves.
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Aleph closed his eyes, and at the same time he whispered something to his Spirit companion. After a couple of seconds, the spirit agreed happily, as it ghostly hovered towards to the battle.
Watch over them for a bit, "Stry", He smiled calmly.
(Stryder will move 5 squares north and 1 to the right, in an attempt to give an area of support, and it will cast "Watcher's Strike" which adds a +1 bonus to Attack rolls and a +5 bonus to Perception checks to any ally while adjancent to itself. Also,forgot to add a roll for initiative, I am sorry TwT)
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((I apologize for not posting last night; unfortunately, Dad had a rage moment, no idea why, and I had to choose between hitting the powerstrip or having my poor computer receive 9001d8 blunt damage. {:())
((Initiative: +6))
Oh, squid!
"Gah... why am I doing this, again?" I think sourly.
If one of the nearby kobolds is still alive, I walk to it (preferably to a position that won't block LoS for anyone else) and execute an at-will Reaping Strike. If I miss, it still deals a Lousy One Point of damage*.
If there's none alive in walk range anymore, I run in direction of the further ones, even if I can't reach it. If I did, I execute same attack as above with -5 penalty to the attack roll.
((I hope it makes any sense...))
EDIT: * Well, unless they're Kobold Minions, I guess...
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((well blarg, I just realized that I forgot to bring my notes with me when I came home for the easter weekend =( real sorry everyone, but you'll have to wait for monday before I can continue this D: ))
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Legatus: You swiftly move into position before raising your musket and firing. Unfortunately, in your haste to fire at the kobold you failed to steady your aim. The bullet streaks over its target, mere inches from its head.
Rynvoor: Skirting around to avoid giving an attack opportunity, you move to the side of the closest kobold before making a slam with your hammer. Your inexperience in fighting is shown as your lunge leaves a clear opening for the kobold minion to dodge, and you strike nothing but cold rock.
Krim: As you move you scan the area for the perfect target to pull into range of your allies and spot a lone kobold huddling behind a boulder roughly 20 feet away and fire a thunderous burst of sound. Though the force of your strike pulls the minion out of its cover, the effort is unnecessary as it keels over dead, with blood leaking from its ears.
Enemy Movement: One of the stronger-looking kobolds lets out a terrible shriek as its companion falls, and it immediately rounds on Krim. Loading an incendiary pellet into its sling, the kobold whirls it around and fires at the Kenku, his Draconic shrieking following the bullet as it collides with its targets. Krim buckles a bit at the impact but recovers, though he now has to contend with the light flames licking at his feathers. (Krim takes 4 damage and suffers 2 ongoing fire damage until he makes a save) Cackling gleefully, the slinger dashes away behind one of the far boulders for cover.
Naito: Having to make due now that your intended target has run out of range, you run over to the minion Ryn has cornered against the boulder and attack it with a riposting strike. However, Ryn’s attempted attack has sharpened the creature’s attention, and it turns and launches itself to safety well before your blades land.
Enemy Movement: The kobold Ryn and Naito are facing strikes at the Raki with his spear, but the rogue’s reflexes allow him to nimbly sidestep the attack. Not wanting to press its luck, the kobold shifts out of the way and scurries to safety by the boulder his fellows are gathering around. With their ally out of the line of fire, the two other minions cackle and chirp as they rear back and launch javelins at Ryn and Naito. Though their reflexes are strong at close range, it seems the pair have less luck when fired upon from afar, as the two javelins each graze their mark. (Ryn and Naito each take 4 damage)
Ssiran: With no kobolds left within your range, you move alongside Legatus and Krim to provide some physical support to your frailer group mates. As you near them, you see two more kobolds readying themselves behind a boulder to the south. Determined to disrupt their plans in whatever way you can, you raise your holy symbol and deliver your Divine Challenge upon the closest. ((Divine Sanction cannot be independently applied; it’s an aftereffect of certain attacks. Divine Challenge is the one you can do independently. Oh, and the marked enemy will have a small red dot on it))
Aleph: Unfortunately, by the time Stryder reaches Ryn and Naito the kobolds have already fled to the eastern boulder. Without an enemy target, Stryder takes a vigilant stance, eager to help your friends in some new way. ((Also, red dot is Stryder when he isn’t with you))
Enemy Movements: From the south come two new kobolds who had been hiding behind another boulder until Ssiran discovered them. Skittering around the rock, the two raise their shields in front of them and charge towards Ssiran. Though their movements suggest more combat skill than their fellows, these two kobolds still lack the expertise needed to get their swords past the Catfolk’s parries.
(http://img714.imageshack.us/img714/8610/koboldbrigands.jpg)
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Schlag!, I scowl.
Not only I missed, these little d'nars managed to score hits on me, the Raki, and our bard.
I walk NE, then E-E-E. If there's a kobold minion adjacent (SE) to this square, I attack him using Sure Strike. If not, I walk one step more to get the slinger in reach (to the SE), and use Reaping Strike. ((Not that the 1 point of miss damage would do much to him.))
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"Blast!"
My ears flatten against my skull as I mentally rebuke myself for taking such a clumsy shot. Suddenly, I see the two new kobolds break out from where they were hiding, and they are running right up to me! My tail bristles when Krim is hit by the flaming pellet, and I move west one unit, three units north, units east, and yell to Ryn,
"Get that slinger, I'll clear the path!"
I drop my musket, draw a dagger, and use Careful Attack to throw it at the kobold that is 5 units due east of Ryn (the northern one of the pair). (at-will, +8 vs AC, 1d4)
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Hmm...alright, I think I know what I wanna' do.
IF both of the kobolds next to me are still alive, and haven't moved away, I will hit the one I have marked with Enfeebling Strike (At-Will, +6 vs AC), this will (if it hits) give him a -2 to his attack rolls, on top of the -2 for attacking someone who isn't me. The Divine Challenge will persist, since I've engaged him.
If only one of them is still alive, I'll do the same thing, but I'll mark him first if he's not already marked. (Divine Challenge).
If neither of them are still alive, then I'll walk to the nearest surviving kobold, if they're in range, and use
Valiant Strike (At-Will, +7 +1/adjacent enemy vs AC) to hit them, and lay the Divine Challenge on a different one if available, or the same one if not.
If none are in walking distance, I'll move to line up and then charge. (Basic Attack +1 to hit, for +8 vs AC), then Challenge the nearest one, if I can.
"Fight me! ME! I'm right here, Cowards..."Ssiran glowers at the kobolds, an eerily haunted grin spreading across his face.
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"Hehe, is that all you've got? I've been dealt worse from a rat."
Raito moved his left paw out of his sleeve, swapped weapons with his right paw, and aimed for second before throwing the dagger at a Kabold, the dagger moving in a near-perfect trajectory and moving straight instead of spinning.
Assuming I move before my, I target the Kabold Minion due east of me and throw a dagger at him while using Sky Flourish (1[W]+DEX+CHA), and, if the attack hits, move as far east as I can without engaging a minion.
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Reacting to the kobolds suddenly appearing, Andrei sends a bolt of ice that strikes the first kobold to appear. The ice envelops and freezes part of the kobold, inhibiting it form moving as fast as it used to. Seeing that the kobolds were hitting his fellow allies, Andrei turned around and with a flick of his hands, a pillar of flame suddenly enveloped the kobolds.
(Kobold triggers my readied action, so that hits it dead. Move 1 square north and 1 square northwest. Cast scorching burst behind the kobold that is in front of Naito (on the map) 1 square behind it.)
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"Ack!" Krim cries as he shakes a little from the burning feathers. Sliding back he focuses and unleasehed a pushed on psychic cackilig on the kobold fighting Ssiran, before trying to put himself out.
(Shift N, and then release Visious Mockery!(1d6+Cha, -2 to attacks Till My Next Turn) If that Kobold is dead, the one next to him. If That one is dead, the weenie in front of the boulder.)
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After feeling the sudden and surprising attack from the Kobolds, Aleph felt a bit of low self-esteem since his perception failed completely. Yet, he was just a beginner Shaman despite his wise-like appearance.
I will need a lot of training... I cant forgive myself to be this slow... I just need to concentrate and gain balance! "Stry"... hear my call...
Aleph attempts to concentrate to call back his Spirit Companion and tries to make it move 5 squares to the south, so it will be right behind the Kobold that is attacking Serian at the moment. Then, Aleph attempts to tell Stryder to perform "Watcher's Strike" ,aiming at the Kobold.
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((Aleph hasn’t decided his action yet, so I’ll update this and provide the diagram afterwards))
Enemy Movement: The kobolds engaging Serian glance towards each other before breaking rank and shifting around to flank the paladin. Though Serian tries to adjust his stance to take advantage of the opportunity and strike, the kobolds’ dragonshield tactics enable them to duck and weave skilfully enough to prevent such an opening from appearing. Whatever concerns he holds about being at a tactical disadvantage appear unfounded, however, for as the two make their attack not even flanking can get them through Serian’s defences.
Legatus: Though far from having the same strength of your musket, what this dagger lacks in firepower it makes up for in the precision with which you throw it. The minion has barely time to turn towards the dagger hurtling towards it before the blade buries itself in its skull.
Andrei: Your reflexes are dead-on as your spell chills and blasts the dragonshield that flanks Serian from behind. Moving out of the cover of the boulder, but still behind the safety of your allies, you conjure a blast of flame to strike at the slinger, but it manages to nimbly leap out of the way with little more than a few singed scales. ((Your movements would have placed you on top of Naito, so I improvised, sorry))
Rynvoor: Your desire to leave a position open for you allies has backfired on you. Skirting along the rocky outcropping puts you on an awkward angle against the relative flatness of the path. Not even the steady grip of your paws can prevent your swing from being thrown off, and your hammer fails to make it even close to the slinger.
Krim: (take another 2 ongoing fire damage) Though your catcalls and insults could wound even the mightiest of prides, it is the magic behind your words that strikes the dragonshield, bloodying the kobold and adding demoralization to its ever-mounting pile of problems. Turning your attention back to your sizzling clothes, however, you attempt to bat out the flames but they reignite just as you seem to have banished them.
Enemy Movement: The slinger shifts away from Rynvoor and runs towards its fellow by the far boulder before arming its sling and hurling a white pellet towards the Vale. His fur stiffens as the bullet lands mere inches from his paws, sparing them from being stuck in the gooey, viscous fluid that now envelops a small patch of rocks.
Naito: Your aim is true and your dagger deadly, it rip through the minion’s throat thanks to your careful precision.
Serian: Your lust for battle is only matched by the dragonshield’s urge to live. It cowers behind its shield as your sword connects with cold metal instead of soft flesh.
(http://img266.imageshack.us/img266/8610/koboldbrigands.jpg)
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Krim unleashes a second burst of psychic cackiling upon the Dragonshield.
(You know, I shoulda of picked up a "Weapon" attack just in case of flanking needs with flock. Ah well. Mockery agian, and then try to put my clothes out.)
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((Edit: Hmm... now that I've got the map to work with I'll have to make some adjustments. It seems my estimate was not entirely accurate. {:) ))
"Boom, headshot!"
If Naito's position remains south of the rock as shown on the map, I use Careful Attack with my other dagger on the last remaining Minion ((2 squares south of Rynvoor)). If that minion is killed by the attack, I pick up my gun and move to its former position. If the attack misses I pick up my gun and move 3 units NE to the square west of and adjacent to the minion.
If Naito's position is revised and that minion is already dead, I pick up my gun, move to its former position, and retrieve Naito's dagger. ((even though I could get my own, Naito's would be in the position I'm trying to get to anyway.))
"We've got them on the run! Keep up the attacks!"
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(( Jonas, did I already tell you how much I enjoy your way of storytelling our actions? It rocks!
Anyway, got two questions here... first, I was RSing at the slinger. Thus, one of my little hits should go through (for one point of damage) even when attack roll failed, right?
Second - I'm a bit confused... I thought that Naito took the southern one of the two minions that were to the north of "my" boulder (and to the west of the slinger), and walked east from there, i.e. close to me. But on the map you did it like he moved SE, then attached the kobold east of the same rock.
Well, in any case: ))
"You can run, viljyi, I will get you anyway!", I growl as I approach the slinger once more (walk E-SE-S if the minion to the south of me is really there, SE-SE if they're both dead).
I think to myself "Blast, Ryn, aim better or your tail's gonna end up on someone's cap one day!", and attempt a (not-so-) Sure Strike.
EDIT: ((Legatus, I'm quite sure I wasn't standing on top of your dagger, but to the north of it... unless it went through the kobold and further away?))
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((Jonas, if we used my actual location that I tried to move to and the target I tried to attack, then wouldn't I be directly under the slinger, thus giving me an opportunity attack when he shifted 'away' from Tvorsk and, thus, still adjacent to me?))
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((Jonas, if we used my actual location that I tried to move to and the target I tried to attack, then wouldn't I be directly under the slinger, thus giving me an opportunity attack when he shifted 'away' from Tvorsk and, thus, still adjacent to me?))
Shifting doesn't provode attacks of opportunity. Kobolds can shift 1 square as a minor action, so the slinger used both its move and minors to get into position without provoking AoP.
Anyway, got two questions here... first, I was RSing at the slinger. Thus, one of my little hits should go through (for one point of damage) even when attack roll failed, right?
The target I thought you were RSing had moved out of range by the time your turn came around, so I went with your other action.
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((I'm having a bit of a hard time keeping track of who's who and who's doing what, but I'll get this down, eventually))
Assuming they don't move away before my turn:
Ssiran shifts one square south, and presses the attack on the one he's got marked.
(Valiant Strike, At-Will, +7 base, +2 for 2 adjacent enemies, for a cumulative +9 vs AC.)
If both move away from me
Ssiran will move adjacent to the one he has marked; then act according to the location of the other.
if both are adjacent:
Valiant strike, as above.
if the unmarked one isn't adjacent, but is still within 3 squares of Ssiran:
Ssiran will use Valorous Smite (Encounter, +6 vs AC) on the one he has marked. Doesn't do anything on a miss, but if it hits, any enemy within 3 squares is subject to Divine Sanction.
Hmm...I'm mostly trying to keep these guys focused on me, and not the softer targets. I'm hoping to lure them southwards a few spaces...
"Come on, fight! You're not even trying, kobold." Ssiran continues to taunt the dragonshields, trying to keep their attention.
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"Now time to take out that sling-shot wielding coward."
I move in such a way that puts me adjacent (or as close as possible) to the Kobold slinger and use Riposte Strike using my Rapier. If I cannot move close enough to the slinger to use Riposte Strike, then I'll use Sky Flourish with my dagger.
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((You should all probably know that the order I describe character actions is the initiative order. So anything Legatus does, for example, is carried out before Naito or Aleph))
Enemy Movement: The dragonshields glance and saw something to each other in draconic ((Aleph is too far away to hear)) before darting in unison in opposing directions around Serian. Though the paladin is able to block the attack of one, his focus is too split to save himself from the second. ((Serian takes 6 slashing damage. Slowed state and attack penalties end on dragonshield)).
Legatus: A quick flick of your wrist sends another dagger to its mark, and the final minion falls to the ground. Grabbing your musket and taking cover near the kobold’s body, placing the slinger firmly within your sights.
Andrei: ((Failed to declare a move in time, so will repeat last turn as much as possible)) He moves into line of sight of the slinger and repeats his Scorching Burst attack, but misses.
Rynvoor: Clambering back onto solid and steady ground, you dart towards the slinger and strike with your hammer. Though your blow connects, it leaves merely a flesh wound.
Krim: Blood pours from the dragonshield’s ears as your blast of sound strikes true. Though pleased to have hit your mark, you are far more elated to have finished extinguishing your clothes. ((Saving throw success))
Naito: With precision focus, you skirt around the boulder to flank the slinger with Rynvoor before performing a quick-yet-devastating attack. Your daggers tear through scales, skin, and muscle as the slinger collapses in defeat.
Serian: Shifting out of the dragonshields’ flanking, you take up a more defensive position. Still smarting from the wound it gave you, your spite fuels your strike as your sword lacerates the kobold’s arm, shattering what feeble protection it had as tearing open the artery. Several seconds of blood loss later gives you one less opponent to be concerned about.
Aleph: ((Failed to declare a move in time, so will repeat last turn as much as possible)) Moved Stryder into a flanking position with Serian and used Watcher’s Strike. Attack succeeds and any allies adjacent to Stryder until end of Aleph’s next turn gain +1 to attack rolls and +5 to Perception checks.
(http://img411.imageshack.us/img411/8610/koboldbrigands.jpg)
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Ok, time for an explanation of the new grid. It's a co-ordinate system based around 3x3 blocks. The blocks are labeled according to which number/letter combination they fall into, and each individual square in that block is numbered 1-9 in an order matching the layout of a common calculator, with 1 being at the lower left and 9 being at the upper right.
EXAMPLE:
Andrei is currently at position A4-2
Legatus is currently at position B5-7
Rynvoor is currently at position B5-9
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Quite satisfied with the work of my daggers, I move north one unit to A5-1, retrieve the other dagger, and start reloading, my tail swishing happily behind me.
"We sure showed them, eh? Let's finish that thing off."
-
I shake my head, annoyed at my own incompetence. Then I look up at the Raki.
Thanks, Naito..., I sigh.
Afterwards I walk to B4-1, even tho I don't really expect the kobold will survive long enough for me to approach him.
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Hmm...well, Ssiran is going to move to maintain flanking against the dragonshield, and use valiant strike again. Minor action to Divine Challenge, if the dragonshield survives that long.
Attack: +8 vs AC.
If it's already dead before my turn, move to support the other members of the party.
If the encounter's over, though, this entire box of info is irrelevant. :P
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"No problem, though I wouldn't have gotten that shot if you weren't there."
I move to C4-1 and throw a dagger, using Sky Flourish, at the final Kobold, assuming he's still alive. If not, and the encounter is over, then I go retrieve my daggers from their victims and Lagatus.
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Spinning around and turning to the last Kobold, Krim fires a bolt of magic behind an illusions. To the Kobold, he would see Sserian attacking agian as the bolt curves and tries to strike him. Krim then quickly shuffles accorss the floor and stands besides the spirit doing his best to berate the Kobold.
(Misdirected Mark, which if Successful allows causes Sserian to mark the Kobold if he chooses. After that, move to C3-7. Also to note if Sserian shifts into flanking, bonus is +3 due to flock)
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((And, in response to the Misdirected Mark, if it hits, I'd rather not mark him, as it'd supercede my Divine Challenge)
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Andrei looks around, with the skirmish settling down he moves to the nearby boulder taking cover behind it. Seeing one of the kobold still alive, he fired the same ray of ice without thinking about it.
(Move to B4-6. Attack the kobold with Ray of Frost. It is slowed if the ray hits along with the Ice damage).
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((And, in response to the Misdirected Mark, if it hits, I'd rather not mark him, as it'd supercede my Divine Challenge)
(Oops sorry, I had thought the Divine Challenge was on the dude sitting in a pool of blood on the floor)
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@Tvorsk: You don't need to constantly specify walking, if you're breaking into a run (4x movement) then please do specify that, but unless you actively mention you're doing it I will always assume you are moving normally.
@Everyone: Just for the future, if you're doing an attack against anything other than AC (i.e.- reflex defense) please note it.
Battered and broken, the lingering dragonshield attempts to flee, but its panic leaves it open. Your opportunistic strikes take what little life it has left, and the last of your would-be waylayers falls dead. What do you do?
-
((Dadada da-da-da DUN dadun! (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5c2Vb7CqTdc)))
I finish reloading, clean my daggers, put them away, and sling my musket. Then, of course, I check the corpses for loot!
"Thought they'd rob us, did they? I'm sure they won't be needing this stuff anymore..."
After that, I dust myself off, make sure my tail is clean, and say,
"Very well, everybody okay?"
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Ssiran cleans his sword and sheathes it.
"I'll be fine. Nothing a brief rest won't heal."
Ssiran surveys the rest of the party, nods, and smiles faintly.
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"Hm, I was hoping they would put up more of a fight, but we're probably wasting time as it is. Take what you can and leave the rest."
Naito twirls his rapier before returning it to it's sheath, then gathers up his daggers from their various victims and wipes the blood off of them. The rouge then inspects the Kobolds for items of interest, specifically any daggers he can add to his arsenal.
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"Same here. Nothing a quick rest and a sowing needle can't fix" Krim says as he looks over the scorch marks in his clothes, and looks to the others to see if they are ready to journey on.
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I splay my ears to the sides.
"Just a scratch... and I totally deserved it. I should have aim better."
I support my weapon on my shoulder and slowly approach the rest of the group.
"Oh, and if you'll find some trash on them you're not interested in... lemme take a look, all right?", I grin in the direction of our self-proclaimed Reclaimation Specialists.
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The kobolds have the following loot:
Slinger: Sling, one fire pellet (can be used in a gun or sling, on hit deals 2 ongoing fire damage until save), three ceramic spheres that decorate its bandolier (20g value each)
Minions: Each has one piece of hide armor, three javelins, a spear, and a light shield
Dragonshields: Each has a short sword and a shield
You each get 60 experience.
The bodies searched and the spoils of war taken, you find yourselves continuing on to Winterhaven. Whether because the kobolds were the only threat along the path, or because your defeat of them scared off other bandits you have no idea, but soon the gates of Winterhaven come into view. You have arrived at your first destination, what do you do?
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"I'm going to go ask around town for anything that may be valuable to us, you all sell the unneeded junk we pilfered from the kobolds, and procure us a cheap inn. We will meet back here sundown, and everybody should have some means of fighting at a distance when we do."
Raito, after giving the items he acquired from the kobolds to Lagatus, goes off to the lower class districts, asking for any information on the ruins, the bandits roaming the plains, and anything that may help them in their quest. (Streetwise +7)
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I set aside a short sword and a hide armor for myself. If nobody takes the sling or the fire pellet, then I take the fire pellet as well.
"Alright, everyone take your pick and we can sell the rest."
After everyone's taken what they want from the loot, I look for a shop.
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"Hmm...pass, unless you guys think something in it is magical. I can help ya sell the stuff if you want although Legatus." Krim says as he looks over the articles.
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Ssiran claims 3 javelins for himself, but sees nothing else of interest to him.
((Since javelins are heavy thrown, they're probably better for me that most ranged weapons would be, as my strength is higher than my dexterity.))
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"Ah well, just in case when all vaylieh are too far away...", I mutter and pick up another kobold's javelins (yes, 3).
((Thanks for the tip, Dragyn {;)))
I look at the shields for a while, pondering, then shrug, walk away and nod to the party to signal I'm done.
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((That's why I brought it up. Besides: free weapons! They only sell for 1/5 price, so if you can use 'em...))
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Looking at what the kobolds had, Andrei picked up what items for lightest after everyone else had taken their share. Intending on selling them to the local brokers, he carried the loot they had taken from the bandits. Reaching the town of Winterhaven, he was glad to be rid of this burden.
(Gonna pick up the loot that everyone's leaving behind as long as it doesn't exceed my carrying capacity. Sorry about being absent for two days :p).
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What stores Legatus can find are located in the Market Square. Farmers hock produce and meat from their stalls alongside craftsmen from the village. ((You can find most of the items from the Adventuring Gear list in PH here, sold for twice what the book lists. There are no armor//weapon/implements/magic items being sold))
Naito's questions find him directed to the Wrafton Inn. Though it is late in the evening you are able to get some information from Salvana Wrafton, the human owner.
"Oh, the keep? It's just northeast of the village, up in the high hills. But no one goes that way. Too dangerous! Monsters of all sorts! Ghosts and vampires, I hear. Nothing anyone who values their life would get anywhere near. Valthrun probably knows more though, he's this wizard that lives in the huge tower on the east end of town. Comes in pretty regularly, if you stay the night I bet he'll be around by the time you wake up! I'll even let you and your friends stay for free as thanks for taking care of some of those bandits, they've been a real thorn in our side for months now! Lord Paidraig has been itching to get them dealt with too, offered up a reward and everything."
((For the record, I don't care too much about carrying capacity so long as you don't try something that would obviously exceed it [i.e.- lugging around five suits of plate mail] ))
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After gaining all the information he needed and noting the possibility of ghosts and vampires, however unlikely it was, Naito made his way back to the meeting spot, noting that all his potential pick-pocket victims were either too poor to be worth the effort and risk, or too out in the open where he'd be easily seen committing a crime.
"Hm, that didn't take very long, I do hope the rest finish up soon."
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Ssiran, having nothing to pursue of his own, head to the meeting point to wait.
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(If there is enough time) After helping Legatus a little with the items, Krim decides to go walk to the town a little and see if he can pick up any information on if the kobolds were working for someone, or other bandit incidents.(Streetwise +9). Once finished, he goes to meet up with the group.
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"Alright, if everyone's got what they want then."
I hand the items to be sold over to Krim, and head to the meeting spot. Upon seeing Naito there I ask,
"Find out anything interesting?"
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I was just leaning against a wall near at the meeting spot and pondering.
Once most of my fellow party members returned, I sighed quietly to myself, and approached them.
"You know... we are adverturing together... we were fighting together... but we don't actually know each other."
I look around.
"So, well... I thought each of us could say a few words about himself, or something... um... shall I start, or do you want me to keep my muzzle closed and "stay professional" as some call it?"
((EDIT: Gonna wait to check if anyone else besides Ssiran has an opinion about it before posting... hope that's OK?))
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Ssiran looks at Rynvoor, crossing his arms across his chest.
"By all means, Rynvoor. I have a hard time trusting those who I know nothing about."
I pause for a bit, and glance around me at the assembled group. "But yes, you start. I'll wait a bit, and decide how much to tell."
I tap my fingers against my gauntlet, and lean against a wall, myself.
And then, for no good reason, glance around, watching for trouble.
((Not actually expecting anything, but feel free to use my passive perception if anything turns out to be happening. Ssiran is just a bit wary, is all. Ever Vigilant, paranoid. Either way.))
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Naito nodded to Rynvoor and Ssiran in agreement.
"It would be wise to learn about each other before we continue any further, seeing as we'll be stuck together until we finish this task, but not here nor now. I have acquired an inn for us to stay at, and I'll be able to collect more important information in the morning. We will stay the night and discuss about ourselves there."
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Krim, having found only the same information about the bandits as Naito, rejoins the group. All of you retire to the inn to find that dinner is being served. Sitting down to eat, you begin to share a bit about yourselves to each other.
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I put my elbows on the table, support my chin on hands, and look over faces of my fellow party members... "and, hopefully, soon-to-be-friends", the thought whispers in the back of my head.
I sigh, and turn my ears aback in resignation.
"So, well... as you all know, I'm Rynvoor, I was born in a place called Niel'banoc, and I'm trying to fight my way through trouble with a warhammer." I flash a narrow smile. "Vale originate in the Feywild. Most of us are skilled in magic, and it is very common in everyday lives of my kin." I shake head a bit. "My kin, but not me... I never was able to handle it. Not even the slightest bits that little cubs had no trouble with..." I seem to be carried away for a moment, then twitch and look up.
"Anyway, being quite like that farmer's kid that can't work on the field, I left... and this plane seemed quite a good place to try back then. I would bore you to death with what happened in the meantime, but at some point I found myself a member of a construction crew. That's where I began working with a hammer...", I grin toothily, "and where one night I found out it's good for smashing not only stones."
I pat my weapon and smile.
"Got myself some training, and left hoping to do something good that I would be proud of... and possibly to get some monetary gain of it too. {;) You know as good as I do that I need to learn a lot still, but who knows, maybe one day we all be rich and famous?"
I nod and grin, hoping they all won't laugh at me.
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"An interesting tale, my friend. I too struggled with the magic-laced ways of our kind, much to the disappointment of my family, I might add, but I found the interesting machinery of the humans",
At this I nod toward my gun,
"to be quite fascinating, and have developed a small talent in working with it."
I place my right hand on the table in front of me and continue,
"You may call me Legatus. I believe my people could benefit greatly from greater interaction with this realm. To this end I seek to gain knowledge and increase my standing here, in order to help establish trade."
I pause, look up, and my ears perk up confidently,
"In time, perhaps, the bonds between our people could form a strong Alliance, capable of bringing peace to this land... though I guess I've got a long way to go before that can happen."
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"Hm, possible, but I wouldn't count on it. Typically, any relations between the Fey and other creatures tend end unfavorably on a large scale."
Naito decided that he may as well tell his story. He takes a deep breath before telling all that may be necessary.
"I'm a rouge, born and raised. My father was a highwayman, my mother was an assassin, and my brother turned into a common pick-pocket and was executed several years ago. I have never once been trained in the magic arts, so that my physical abilities would never be reliant on something so easily taken away. I have been taught to never go anywhere without a plan for any scenario, within reason, though being prepared for some of the most outlandish situations never hurts either. I know not of the history of my race, nor do I know of the lineage of my family beyond my mother and father. My teachings tell me that if I am ever inquired about my past from those who may be untrustworthy, or those whom it would not be in my best intentions to tell of myself, I should fabricate the illusion that I am a trader who avoids being a criminal target by looking as poor as possible, and I have trained my manor of speech to assist in this illusion. I have always valued long-term investments over short-term ones, which is why I have purchased and trained myself in the use of the Rapier, and it is also why I do not steal from everybody I come across. This is all I feel obliged to tell of myself."
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Ssiran sits on a chair, stands back up, looks around quickly, then settles back into the chair.
"I was once a holy knight in the service of the god of valor. At the time, it was all I knew, having been left on their doorstep as a kitten. I had served obediently, and unquestioningly, until the high cleric betrayed me."
I glance around, again, and my ears twitch as I listen for any telltale sounds.
"I serve the god no longer, though I still hold to several of his tenets and teachings. I am now guided by merit of loyalty, be it to friends, family, or just the ideal of loyalty itself. This is the source of my strength, and seems to serve every bit as well as the deity ever did."
I lean back in my chair, and look around at each of my comrades, matching the gaze of each. "Earn my trust, and you have my loyalty, for as long as we remain together. Betray me, and I will see you to your end."
I stand back up, crossing my arms and pacing slightly. "I believe that is all you should need to know."
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"I wish my stories were as great as you all" Krim chuckled as he sat to the side. "In my case I simply got bored...all the number crunching, shady deals and pompous talk that my flock goes through every day was boring the heck out of me. Thus I decided to travel, using my voice to guide me. Been traveling ever since."
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((bleh, sorry guys but my final two exams are coming up and I really need to study. That plus moving back home means I won't be able to do this until around the 24th. You can keep RPing/chatting though, so long as it doesn't require adjucation))
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((Works fine for me, Jonas. I'm at my parents house for the week (maybe a couple weeks, depending), and their in'net is slow, so I may or may not be here, anyway.))
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((Gah, i will have to pause for a few weeks until i am done with my thesis and sorry for the long absence, i had work to do unexpected to my expectations TwT yet this will last for a few weeks, will be back after that :3))
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You eat and talk into the night, before at last retiring to your rooms. The beds are adequate, though you can recall better ones. In the morning, you return to the main room for breakfast and Sylvia serves you eggs and toast. Between bites, a late middle-aged man takes a seat at your table. "I understand you folks took care of some of those bandits. My thanks to you, they were making it very difficult to gather plants for my research. My name is Valthrun, by the way, folks around here call me "the Prescient"."
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As the man sat down and introduced himself, Naito lapped up some of his water, slowly and discreetly enough to appear as if he was simply sipping from it. A moment later, he sat it down and began his attempt to learn of any vital knowledge.
"We do not request any reward for the kobolds, they were just collateral; although, if you have any information that could assist us, we'd like to know two things. First, we need to know about the ruins near here, and second, we need to know if there's anything that may assist us while we're in there before we head in, no matter how slight."
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I bow politely to the man, sit down, and begin eating.
I'm quite concerned about the openness with which the Raki talks about our plans, but I don't say a word. After all, he might actually know what he's doing... and if he's not, Ssiran's the one that'll bite someone's ringed tail off...
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I acknowledge the man with a slight nod and a smile, careful not to show teeth. I secretly hope that he decides to give us a reward anyway, but it seems that to ask for one now would be... impolite. Rather I enjoy breakfast and say,
"I've got to admit I'm curious about those ruins myself. What's the story behind those?"
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Ssiran glances briefly at Naito, but says nothing. He pushes his chair back from the table, and stands, pacing slightly, before dragging his chair over near the Prescient, and re-seating himself away from the table.
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Krim is mostly focused on the current conversation, he head moving here and there with a slight twitch from the morning groom.
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Valthrun adjusts his spectacles. "The keep? Well, it's old that's for sure--dates back to when Nerath was around. Good soldiers there, too. From the records I've managed to find it seems that the keep was a deciding point in many skirmishes. No real clue why it was abandoned though. If you believe the legends then one of the soldiers there went insane and killed everyone who didn't flee. There's a noticeable gap in the information I've found between the keep's last fight and when it was abandoned, though, so for all I know the legend is true."
He shrugs before adding. "You fellows planning to capture it or something? Make it your own little base of operations?"
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"That sounds like a good idea actually, I should ask the guy who hired us if we can keep the place afterwords..."
Keeping that thought to myself I swallow the last of my breakfast and reply,
"It just seems to be an interesting place, that's all. Interesting places have interesting stories, perhaps if I discover some more of that keep's story I'll come back to share it."
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Hearing the man announce himself as a prescient (or at least that was his title) was certainly an interesting thing. What talents did this man have however? Surely one who is prescient can manipulate things as to gather his required information in many ways. Andrei however decided to keep quiet, trying to discern whether the man is matching up his facts with the truth or he is purposefully keeping some sensitive information unheard.
((Sorry for the sudden hiatus. >Insert generic blaming on school and life in general< :p. MMORPGs also don't tend to mix well with one's muse.))
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Check Result: As far as you can tell, Valthrun is not lying. What you know of the area's history matches up with his account of the keep as well.
Thanking Valthrun for your time, you all finish your breakfast and prepare to set out for the keep. Will you perform some preperations around town first, or head out immediately?
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Ssiran, having nothing to do in town at the moment, is all for heading out immediately. He will, however, wait for the rest of the group, should they see fit to do anything more in town.
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I turn back from the bar and look at the paladin. "Can go whenever we're ready." I smile widely, flashing most of my teeth, and add "I'd never suspect a village inn like this one would serve such a good tea... usually it's "either ale, or ale"." Afterwards, I return to lapping the beverage.
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Naito finished off his water and sat the class down. "Well, I believe I will acquire a few more daggers, perhaps five, before we go; if we get into any more skirmishes, it would be wise for me to be capable of making as many attacks from a distance without requiring the time needed to retrieve a blade already thrown."
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I stand up, swish my tail and pick up my musket. I then shake my head and say,
"I'm afraid that is out of the question, the shops here don't seem to have any weapons, just horribly over-priced adventuring gear. Unless you want some expensive rope I wouldn't bother with the shops."
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Naito, upon hearing there were no places to obtain weapons in the vicinity, grumbled and crossed his arm in a rather child-like manor. "Blasted backwash towns, no wonder they're raided so easily..."
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"Relax, Naito. I am certain your current equipment will suffice."
Ssiran stretches, then continues. "Seems to me there's nothing keeping us here. Shall we be off?"
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"There's nothing interesting here, so yes I don't mind taking off right now." Andrei then followed the paladin and kept out an eye on the village.
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"I think Im ok. Mt rations should last for the time being." Krim says as he checks his stuff one time over.
(Would Travelers Chant be useful in speeding us there or is this a short journey?)
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((Don't know how long the journey is, but don't you get one free ritual per day?))
((Unrelated, but possibly significant; back home, but job interview on the morrow. I may be erratic in my appearances.))
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(ooc: True, True, not to mention I have a couple charges of the ritual in store if needed, figured Id check anyway although to keep that toolbox open)
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You make your way out of Winterhaven and begin the trek to the keep. The shadowy towers loom over you as you make your way around the cliffside it is situated on. Though the fastest way would be to simply cut through the surrounding forrest, the dense foliage deters you and instead you stick to the path as it winds around the cliffs. ((green squares, which will be fairly common for the next little bit, are areas of dense foliage. Although they give cover/concealment, they are difficult terrain and cost 2 squares to move through.))
Please indicate your marching order.
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(Ooc: Ill take somewhere in the middle) As the group prepares themselves for a the journey ahead, Krim pulls out a small ocarina, and sets it to his beak. Blowing on it, he begins to play a light hearted tune which seems give energy to the others and raid spirits.
(Use my free ritual on travalers chant, making our speed slowest char+2)
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((I'll take the front. I am the most heavily armored.))
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I hum as the cat's taking the lead again.
"Hmm... if I'll go with him, we'll have a strong force at the front... but what in case of an ambush from some other side? Blast, these things are never a problem when you're alone...", I think.
I pull out a coin, mutter "So, heads for the heads, tails for the tails...", and flip it.
As I catch it back, I see it's heads-up.
"Well, whatever happens, we should have enough time to run wherever we'll have to...", I say to myself as I take place right behind Ssiran.
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I take up a position just in front of the bard, walking with my musket resting against my shoulder. I take a look around to get a feel for the surroundings, taking note of major terrain features and keeping an eye out for signs of another ambush.
"I better stay on my toes, those bandits may have had friends..."
-
((I'll stay near the back))
Staying in the back, the human simply stays quiet but listening for anything that may sneak up on them.
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Naito noticed the human was lagging behind somewhat. Hm... it would be best to be in front of him, being picked off first is not something I want to go through... The raccoon took his place directly in front of the wizard, but to the side just enough that if anything attacked the wizard, he could easily make his attack without endangering his party member. The rogue began looking around cautiously, keeping his hood covering his head to make it appear as if he were a mere child rather than a trained assassin.
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As the road bends a sudden war cry is heard from all sides. Your vigilance, while noteworthy, is broken and hindered by the foliage and boulders scattering the landscape, stopping you from seeing the kobold ambush you have just walked into. Reptilian creatures come from all sides and brandish spears and swords, eager for your blood.
SURPRISE ROUND:
From both sides of the road charge three kobolds wearing the same armor as the dragonshields you encountered previously. Screaming wildly and brandishing swords, they narrow in on Sir Fraythick and slash madly. Though surprised, the paladin has kept enough of his focus to block the most severe of the blows, but it costs him a cut across the leg for six damage. As Fraythick recovers, his gaze is drawn to the kobold that wounded him (Frathick has been marked by the Dragonshield with a red dot).
From around a boulder darts a kobold carrying a sharp spear. Dashing forward it lunges at Andrei, who is too slow to get out of the way. The wizard is slashed for five damage before leaping away with a sinister cackle.
As you struggle to respond to the ambush, from the south comes a kobold in blood red armor with what looks like a dragon skull on its face. With a deep breath it spurts a gout of acid towards your southernmost allies. Krim, Legatus, and Andrei lack the fortitude to endure the searing breath weapon, and the acid burns them for thirteen damage.
Blood is beginning to ooze from Andrei's wounds.
Roll initiative and declare your first action.
(http://img72.imageshack.us/img72/7075/koboldambush.jpg)
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"Ambush!", I scream the obvious. "Hold on!"
If the dragonshield at (C4-8) or any other monster is still right next to me, I swing my weapon at him. If not, whichever's closest.
-
I clench my teeth, curse under my breath, and sight my musket on the Kobold to the south (D3-3). The pain from the acid is excruciating, and I doubt I could survive another hit like that. Better take care of this one before he strikes again.
"Hold the line to the front! People in the back target that damn acid-breather, we can't keep taking hits like that, and we're going to need some healing in a hurry!"
Not wanting to be left out in the open, I use Nimble Strike to shift SW to D3-9, fire at the D3-3 kobold, then move to D2-6 to use the rock as cover.
If the target has moved to where I would not be able to see it from D3-9, I check to see if I can hit it before shifting. If that is the case, I fire first, then shift as before and move to C1-9. If I cannot hit in either case, then I don't attack and move to D5-4.
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((I almost forgot. You can leap over a boulder with an Athletics check))
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((Those of you who are injured, especially bloodied, I strongly recommend you use your second wind. Encounter power, uses one of your healing surges, but heals you your surge value, and boosts all defense by +2 for one turn.))
((Not important right now, Jonas, but I want to ask for later: how are we working immediate interrupt powers? By rights, I should be able to say I interrupted that hit using Feline Reflexes, and it never hit me. I don't want to right now (since it's an encounter power, and I want to save it), but I thought we should clear this up for later.))
Ssiran faces the Dragonshields. "Fine. I'll take you all on. ALL OF YOU." That said, he strikes at the one who marked him.
(Valorous Smite. +6 vs AC. If it hits, all enemies within 3 squares of me are marked. It also does 2d8+3 damage to my target.)
The blow made, hit or fail, he looks over his shoulder at the acid spitter. "I'm coming for you."
(Divine challenge on the spitter. This is the one my feat applies to, so if he doesn't attack me, he'll take 3+3+4 radiant damage, for a total of 10 points of radiant damage.)
EDIT: ((To clarify, if he attacks anyone EXCEPT me, he'll take radiant damage. If he doesn't attack anyone, he'll still be OK.))
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Cussing, Andrei pulls out a small orb from his backpack. A magic aura surrounds him, partially mending his wounds as well as providing a temporary abjuration effect. Humming a song that sounds familiar to a lullaby, he casts the spell at where the Kobold with the dragon's helmet was have to come from.
((Spend an action point, use second wind, cast sleep centered on D4-2, pull out my implement)).
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The raki, although showing no outward reaction to the sudden attack, was disturbed that the gas the so heavily injured his teammates came just inches from his nose. "Well then, the highest priority wasn't too hard to locate."
Assuming I move before the Wyrmpriest, I move to D4-4 and make a Tortuous Strike (2[W]+DEX+STR) attack him. If he moves, then I'll move appropriately to make the attack on him. If I cannot make a melee attack against him due to him moving out of range, I move to attack the Skirmisher with Sky Flourish.
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((Ok, here's how Immediate Interrupts will work. If you wish to use one, declare it in bold at the start of your post, then go through with your turn. I'll retcon/edit its occurence into the enemy's turn.))
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((Okay, I am back! x3 I will try to at least post some activity when my turn arrives 'w' Thanks Jonas for the autopilot,lol))
Still resilient despite the surprising ambush, Aleph calmly looks toward the battle and asks to Stryder to use (spell) on (user) to give a helping hand.
Go my Stry... they are having a pinch right now, you know what to do.
The spirit just nodded as it moves 3 squares to the west and 1 north, and then Aleph uses Healing Spirit on Ssiran,hoping if Stryder can also heal other allies around.
-
((Forgot my initiative)).
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Krim coughs a little, rather his feathers rather ruffled by the acid(bloodied as well). Turning twoards the Wyrmpriest he decides to set up some revenge. With a saditistic grin he aims his wand and lets out a loud cackling caw. The sound of thunder rides along is, threating to toss the wyrmpriest in the direction of the bigger boulder.
Krim them turns to Andrei and starts saying some kind words, Andrei's wounds healing in the process.
(Thunder's Calling the Wyrmpriest. If successful, slide him into D4-5. If he has been adjacented by then D3-4, or another open space. Andrei get the extra shot. Then Majestic word Andrei for Surge+5 hp)
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Rynvoor: Though you react quickly to the ambush and are able to act before anyone else, your eagerness is not supported by your accuracy as your hammer attack is easily dodged by the snickering dragonshield.
Enemy Movement: Cackling madly as it hops in place, the wyrmpriest’s claws glow yellow as he hurls a ball of energy at Andrei. As his imminent death hurtles towards him, the bleeding human tries to shield himself with his hands and—by sheer luck—the movement causes his head to duck just enough for the energy ball to sail past without contact. The wyrmpriest’s laugh turns into furious hisses as he skirts around behind a boulder for cover. ((Seriously, you have no idea how lucky you are. The die roll was EXACTLY YOUR REFLEX DEFENSE))
Naito: Pursuing the wyrmpriest around the boulder, your advance is interrupted by the kobold’s sudden lunge with its spear as you draw into range. Expecting such a manoeuvre, you quickly sidestep and use the opening to launch a pair of powerful slashes. Though not full repayment for the pain it inflicted on your allies, the bloodied scales and slashed limbs you have left the wyrmpriest are an excellent start.
Enemy Movement: Shifting around any attempts at interception, the dragonshields move in a co-ordinated pattern to better harry any attempts at movement. One skirts to the south and strikes at Legatus, and blood starts to pour over the ranger’s fur as the blade cuts his artery for nine damage ((Legatus is marked by the dragonshield marked with green)). The second sidesteps in front of Sir Fraythik to better hold his attention as it strikes through his armour for nine damage ((mark sustained)). Taking advantage of the disruption caused by its allies, the final dragonshield heads straight for the wounded Andrei. The human’s luck does not save him this time, and the sword runs through his robes and for seven damage and leaves him dying on the dirt path.
Serian: Enraged at the challenge of the dragonshield as well as by the felling of your comrade, your fury offsets your aim as what was intended to be a blow of holy strength is turned into an easy parry for the snickering kobold before you. Looking southwards to the wyrmpriest, you invoke a divine challenge to hold its focus away from your allies as they scramble to recover.
Enemy Movement: Eager to carry on the momentum of the dragonshields, the skirmisher hurls a javelin towards the wounded Legatus. Its eagerness is its undoing however, as what was meant to be a deathblow sails harmlessly overhead. Shrieking madly, it runs around the nearby boulder for cover.
Legatus: Surrounded and with vision clouded by blood, you attempt to retreat but your haste leaves you vulnerable. Both dragonshields thrust their swords into your back as you retreat for four damage, and you collapse dying on the ground.
Krim: Acting quickly, encouraging words flow from your beak as you inspire and heal Andrei for eight damage. Turning your attention to the wyrmpriest, you desire for its defeat is somewhat thwarted by the large boulder obscuring your aim.
Andrei: Your revival has brought about a second wind, mending an additional five points as you call upon a surge of energy to cast a spell of slumber upon the wyrmpriest. Much to your dismay, its battle fervour shrugs off any attempts at sleep, and the kobold is instead left merely slowed for one round.
Aleph: Calling upon your spirit companion, Stryder responds and moves into a more advantageous position as you mutter a quick call to the healing winds to aid your party’s defender. Soothing air heals Serian for six damage.
(http://img194.imageshack.us/img194/7075/koboldambush.jpg)
((So sorry about the delay, my new university course is a bit more demanding than I thought it would be. Oh, and just to clarify, DYING DOES NOT MEAN DEAD))
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I missed.
Again.
Just like in previous battle... but this time, my friends got hurt much worse... the red, dying... the mage, wounded... smell of burnt feathers... how long the cat can hold that vayil... and I'm unharmed?!
WHY am I so useless?!
"You kamvate, raflog dratsads!", I scream in shame and fury, launching an attack at the dragonshield right next to me ((or whoever's closest in walk range)), marking him with a Challenge, unless it happens to be the one already marked by Ssiran.
I feel tears in my eyes...
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Flinching at the sounds of my comrades being injured, I attempt to make quick work of the wyvernpriest so I can assist my allies with the enemies currently assaulting them. I continue my pursuit of the wyvernpriest and make a Sky Flourish attack on him, attempting to keep him from getting a shot at my allies.
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Since I won't be able to hold my end of the challenge, I have to mark a different enemy this turn. Since this guy's all up in my face, I'll switch my Divine Challenge to the guy who's got me marked.
Then I'll use Enfeebling Strike (At-will, +6 vs AC) on him. If it hits, he'll have a -2 to all attacks until the end of my next turn, in addition to the -2 if he attacks anybody but me. (So -2 if he attacks me, -4 if he attacks anybody else)
((Ssiran has nothing to say at the moment, preoccupied as he is. If I hadn't just been healed, I'd be bloodied right now.))
((EDIT: I am told that the dragonshields did not shift away, as I had assumed. If this is the case, I would like to make an attack of opportunity against the first one to make such a move.))
((EDIT AGAIN: Uh, Jonas, not to get the whole party killed or anything, but just to make sure we're clear on this: If a result is exactly equal to a defense, it's a hit. Defenses are target numbers. Meet or beat.))
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With no time to contemplate on his luck, the human fires a blisteringly cold ray of ice at the dragonshield.
((Shift to southwest and fire Ray of Frost. Use the orb to extend the slowed effect)).
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"No... so soon... I can't...
The pain from my wounds is overwhelming... is this it? No... it can't be! There will be no surrender! I will not give up, not now, not ever! Coughing up blood, I prepare for the last stand, laying out my plans in my mind... I've got to buy time, survive a little longer. I cannot surrender, but there is no shame in retreat. I attempt to gather my strength, fall back, and recover, with a wary eye on the Dragonshield that wounded me so grievously.
((If I have more than zero HP, and the Kobolds ignore me [which should be the case if I shifted to get here], I retreat to C2-5, hide in the woods [make it C2-7 if it's necessary for concealment], and use Second Wind. If the green marked Kobold moves up and makes a melee attack against me, it will trigger Fox's Cunning, I will shift directly West to get out of his reach, and shoot him in the face with +7 to hit, +9 if someone flanks him. If I have negative HP and am unconscious [which is the case assuming I did the dumb thing and just tried to run past two kobolds] then the only thing I can really do is make a saving throw.))
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"Hey Hey! Its no time to fall my friend!" Krim says as he places a hand to Legatus and tries to literally raise his spirits. He then rolls out of the mess of the foray and backsteps in hopes of a better shot.
(Majestic Ward to help Legatus, then shift and shift as standard over to the boulder at D3-5)
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Surprised, he turns around and notices that in the other flank Legatus was also having trouble. Then a small flow of fear ran through his scales for a bit, yet he shakes his head and focused.
I have to focus, my first real combat... I will not let them die!
Clearly, despite his wise or calm depiction... he was still a shaman apprentice, yet this didnt prevented him for his wishes to support the party. He cleared his mind and concentrated to tell and call Stryder to come back and go the closest he could to Legatus, and attempted to cast Healing Spirit on him.
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((The dragonshields did shift, actually, I will be more careful with my word usage))
Rynvoor: The strain of battle is taking its toll on you as your hammer swings wildly. Panic, confusion, and desperation are what guide your attack instead of precision and skill.
Enemy Movement: The wyrmpriest shifts away from its Raki pursuer and dashes around the boulder and into the open. Unwilling to risk further injury, its next energy ball is directed at Serian as fulfillment of his Challenge. Despite laying his challenge upon the priest, Serian’s focus remains on the dragonshield and he must now pay the price. The energy ball strikes Serian for six damage as blood drips down his armour.
Naito: As the fighting continues to accelerate, you begin to suffer its strain. What had only moments ago been a precise dagger attack has become a wild swing easily dodged.
Enemy Movement: The eyes of the dragonshields glimmer with the anticipation of victory. Three swords strike through the air as they prepare finishing blows against your weakened comrades. A glimmer of luck shines through the battlefield as Krim and Andrei dodge two of the swords and Serian blocks the third. ((marks upheld))
Serian: Where the fighting has hampered your friends’ aim, it has instead focused yours. You deliver a blow against the dragonshield that spreads blood across its scales and damages the muscle, weakening it temporarily.
Enemy Movement: The skirmisher continues to hang back by the north boulder, confident in its safety as it hurls another spear towards the fray. What it was aiming for, however, cannot be determined considering how far off its aim was.
Legatus: You feel a tug of darkness against your mind as you lie bloody on the ground, and you are drawn a step closer to death .
Krim: Your words, though inspiring as they heal Legatus for nine points merely pull him into the conscious realm. Though relieved as he pulls himself onto his feet, he is still very weak.
Aleph: Your call to the spirits has been heard as Legatus is healed for five points.
((When you guys use healing spells, please tell me how much it is. Majestic Word is surge value + CHA modifier and Healing Spirit’s 1d6 only applies to someone adjacent to the spirit companion that is NOT the main healing target.))
(http://img340.imageshack.us/img340/7075/koboldambush.jpg)
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They're still alive... but for how long? Focus, blast it!
I clench my teeth and once again swing my weapon at the elusive dragonshield (C3-6)... marking it with a challenge if possible (should be, if I understand how it works correctly).
-
Strength flows through me as my allies come to my aid, their encouraging words lifting my spirits, and their magics mending my wounds. My eyes lock onto my enemy, studying his movements, anticipating his next move.
"Thank you my friends, I shall not falter again! You have signed your death warrant, Kobold."
Having taken a lesson in caution from my near defeat, I stay on my toes as I line up my shot, aiming to deliver a devastating blow to my prey before I seek out safety in the woods to the west.
((I designate the kobold that marked me as my Hunter's Quarry [+1d6 damage to all attacks made by me against that target], and use Nimble Strike with my musket to attack it. If no enemies are adjacent to me, I fire then shift west. If there are enemies adjacent to me, I shift then fire [to avoid opportunity attacks]. After that, assuming no enemies are adjacent to me, I move to C2-5, while avoiding passing through any threatened squares.
If enemies are still adjacent to me, I try to shift so that they are not. If it's apparent that two shifts would be required to get clear, then shift [as a move action] before using Nimble Strike to set up, then use Nimble Strike's shift to get safe, then fire.
If, for some odd reason, all of the above are impossible, then I shift as necessary to avoid attacks, and use Nimble Strike as a melee attack [Preferably with the short sword I took last encounter, so long as I don't have to drop anything. Or a dagger if you don't want to deal with the sword, since it would have the same chance of hitting.] in place of a shift where possible. In any event, I also take any attacks of opportunity that may be provoked. *checks for leaks* Whew. Setting up the dice for this ought to be fun.))
((Almost forgot, apply +1 to hit for Prime Shot wherever applicable, although that's not likely.))
((Was going through the PHB and realized that Nimble Strike is the only attack I have that can't be used in melee. *facepaws* So disregard that part for melee attacks, the roll is the same for a Basic Attack though. Keep in mind that basic attacks will not be used if two shifts are required.))
((Gah, thank you Dragyn for letting me know about getting up. Guess I'm not getting out of there this round, since that's where my move action is going. Got to be standing up to attack, after all.))
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Clenching his teeth at his near miss, the raki attempted to confused the kobold into letting its guard down, assuming it could understand him. "My good nemesis, I do suggest that you lay down your armory and flee post hast, lest your suffering be drug out as a plow by a mule." I wish I could understand what I just said...
I pursue the wyrmpriest, shifting as necessary and moving into a flanking position if possible, and preform a Sky Flourish attack using my rapier. If in a flanking position, add 2d6 for Sneak Attack damage.
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((A note about dying, and healing from negative numbers:
If you're affected by any healing while your health is negative, you are automatically brought up to 0 HP, and the healing applies on top of that. So, if you're at -3 and dying, and someone heals you for 6, you now have 6 HP, and are no longer dying.
You are still prone, though, and it's a move action to stand back up. Doing so will not provoke attacks of opportunity. You can crawl up to half your speed while prone as a move action. It will provoke attacks of opportunity, as normal movement.))
((If the Dragonshields missed, then their targets are no longer marked. Their marks are an on-hit effect. This won't change my actions this turn in any way, but I wanted to make sure that's clear.))
Ok, now for my actions:
((IMMEDIATE INTERRUPT: I use Feline reflexes to SHIFT when the Wyrmpriest fires at me. With only 2 squares of movement, I still get hit, but I'm now in square C5-4, flanking the Wyrmpriest with Naito. The damage is taken, but I'm in a better location, and it cost me no actions this round.))
I use my second wind, boosting all my defenses by 2 until the end of my next turn, and healing me for 6, meaning I am no longer bloodied. (standard action)
I then use my action point. (No action)
I invoke Divine Strength, which is my Channel Divinity Power for this fight. (+4 damage on next attack this round) (Minor Action)
I target the Wyrmpriest with Majestic Halo (Daily, +6 vs AC, 3d8+3 radiant damage. Regardless of whether I hit or miss, any enemy that starts it's turn adjacent to me is subject to my divine sanction for the duration of it's turn. This effect will persist through the end of the encounter.) (Standard Action)
Lastly, I convert my move action to a minor, and use it to move my Challenge to the Wyrmpriest if he still lives, or to refresh it on the Dragonshield I've been fighting.
((A note for the GM: If you decide to allow the dragonshields to have marked us despite missing, subtract 2 from my to-hit roll.))
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((Marks are upheld by either attacking the marked target or by ending your turn adjacent to them))
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((Alright. If that's the way you want to play it. It's your campaign.
Out of curiosity, Jonas, where can I find that? I don't see that anywhere, in any of the books.
Though that is how my Divine Challenge works, and Fighter's have a class feature that marks any target they attack, even if they miss. The only mark I can find that that seems to apply to is my own. Throw me a bone?))
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((Oh, sorry. I remembered that rule was part of Divine Challenge and I assumed it applied for all marks. So, no, unless the dragonshield attacked you before the end of its turn then the mark ends. Though since the dragonshields marking Krim and Serian attacked them, those marks are still active))
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((And my miss should mark the dragonshield I aimed at too... I think... unless it was already marked by someone else?))
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((Actually, I think the green mark was me. So unless the miss can create a new mark for Dragonshields like it does for Fighters, only Sserian is still marked. Unless the green one hit Krim earlier?))
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(Is the Dragonshield with the green dot marked?)
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((Ok. I'm marked. Tvorsk/Rynvoor's target is marked, and either the Wyrmpriest or the one who has me marked are marked, depending on which one I end up marking with my Challenge--And any that start their turns by me for the rest of this encounter. All other marks are gone.
Actually, wait. Am I marked? It was the Wyrmpriest who hit me; the Dragonshields both missed, so all their marks are gone. Only me and Rynvoor currently hold marks.
Is this correct?))
((Sorry I'm making this all so confusing, but I want to be sure everything is clear before we move on.))
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((double-checked the notes and it turns out that the Dragonshields' mark only works if they hit the target.))
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((Ok. Glad to know I'm not just crazy.))
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...These enemies are quite strong, but with the aid of the spirits we will succeed!
Aleph closes his eyes,as he spiritually tells to his spirit companion to advance and try to aid Ssiran, and everyone around himself with a Protective Strike.
Pondering while trying to cast the spell, Aleph had some thoughts on himself within the party. Maybe it was time to tell everyone who he was and his purpose, but only after this trouble ended. Survival was the key element for this battle.
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((Bad news folks, I'm getting erased from the internet for a few months. I'll have to drop out of the campaign. Good luck, see you much, much later.))
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((Oooh. Well, we'll miss you. Good luck with whatever. See ya' when ya' get back.))
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After making a quick scan of the battle before sliding back agian, and letting out a loud cackle, unleashing a stream of psychic laughter on the foe in front him.
(Slide back out of close combat, and the Vicisous Mockery the Dragonshield, which if hit will give a -2 to attacks until my next turn)
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Barely alive, Legatus shuts his eyes tight and calls out to the magic within his blood. As he summons the Glimmer of Twilight to take himself to safety, something goes very, very wrong. What is supposed to be a quick flash of magic has become an unstable storm of spells. The party covers their eyes as a mighty light fills the battlefield and when it passes, Legatus is no where to be seen. Whether the fey spell--its instability provoked by his waning life--sent the Vale home to the Feywild or somewhere else entierly is impossible to guess. All you know is that he is no longer here.
Looking around in disbelief of your ally's disappearance, you notice that the kobolds are collapsed on the ground, their bodies covered in emerald flames that die down as you approach. What spared you from this fate is unknown, but it comforts you to think of it as a parting gift from your friend.
-
As Krim approaches the place of Legatus's fall, and makes a quick prayer for safe journey on whatever plane that may be. He then looks to the others and he dusts himself off.
"A rest may be in order my friends don't you agree"
-
The raki jumped when the target he was just inches from burst into flames, then looked around, seeing one of his vale companions gone. Naito stared in disbelief where his comrade once stood, answering Krim with a simple "Yup..."
-
Suddenly, I feel like my own hammer knocked me to the ground.
Once I regain consciousness, I recognize the feeling of my kind's magic... but wait... if I'm still here...
I open my eyes, jump to stand (GAH! Bad idea!) and look around. First I notice the dead kobolds, then the place from where Legatus disappeared. I run to it, and instinctively sniff, for no real reason.
He's gone... but might be alive..., I mutter quietly.
My ears twitch at the bard's words.
... Yes... let's rest...
And you too, my friend... wherever you are...
-
Seeing the agreeance on a short rest, Krim finds a soft spot of grass away from the main battlefield to which he flattens and sits down. Pulling out his Ocarina, he begins playing a peaceful travelers tune.
(Song of Rest Grants +4 HP to surges used during rest, using 1 surge on self I think)
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((I'll use just 1 surge. With the +4 from Song of Rest, that brings me up to full.))
Ssiran looks over the battlefield, nods slightly, then cleans and sheathes his blade.
"I will never understand the world I live in."
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((instead of normal experience, you each gain enough to bring you up to exactly 1000, thus reaching level 2. There is no in-game rationale for this, I'm just feeling very generous since its my B-day on saturday {:). Please update and repost your character sheets. ))
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((Yaaaay, thanks, happyfox! Lv 2! (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheetview.php?sheetid=195057)))
I stare at the remnants of battle, and grind my teeth.
Just look at it, Ryn... you did blastin' awesome work. Great Fighter, who couldn't aim to hit a barn! Who was so harmless no one even bothered to attack him! You...
I turn my ear, then the whole head in the direction of the feline's voice, and without as much as a thought say first thing that rolls off my tongue.
"Which of them?"
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"Ugh what happened here?" Andrei thought as he woke up. He then remembered Legatus doing something, unleashing a torrent of magic from his body. And the results were quite impressive and also amazingly selective. Upon hearing the bard's words, Andrei replied, "I could use some quiet time to heal myself up. Maybe we shouldn't be so tightly packed next time."
Setting himself down by one of the many rocks, Andrei looks over at the horizon for no particular thing and studies his spellbook.
((Take 10 on Perception, taking the feats Action Surge and the utility powers Expeditious Retreat and Shield.))
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((Level 2 (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheetview.php?sheetid=186198)))
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"I must humbily agree." Krim says as he stops playing "Being more spread out would be more advantageous, not to mention it will making it less chaotic for thoes who are strogest up close" he then takes his ocarina agian and starts another tune.
(Krim's sheet is on the character post I made)
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((Ding! (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheetview.php?sheetid=185870)))
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((A level 2 Wizard! (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheetview.php?sheetid=185755). Think I'll spend two surges to heal me up. Assuming the music is still going on that is)).
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(Yea, I figure this is the same rest period)
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((All right, I'm afraid I need to be very blunt: Would anyone like to take over DMing? I will continue to do it if that is what you all wish, but I'm starting work at the YMCA soon and, to be honest, this is feeling more like a chore than a game to me. If someone steps forward then I will send them the adventure notes and my blank grid .sai file.))
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((While I have to experience and the time to do this, I don't particularly want to take up the reins partway through. Besides that, the GM shouldn't ever be a player character, so unless nobody else takes it up, I'm gonna' have to pass.
If nobody else is willing, I'll retire Ssiran and take over for you.
You've done a great job so far, Jonas. If you aren't enjoying it, though, don't feel obligated to continue. We've had fun, so no worries, yeah?))
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Alright, starting this back up again, and what better way to start than with loot? On the defeated Kobolds you find:
A total of 5 gold and 20 silver
A hide armor, light shield, and spear on the skirmisher
Three scale armors, heavy shields (each made from a dragon scale, AFAIK this does not affect the stats), and short swords on the Dragonshields
a crimson hide armor, spear, bone mask (shaped like a dragon's skull), and an obsidian necklace carved in the shape of a dragon. On the bottom of the figurine is etched an outline of a skull with ram's horns.
Aleph seems to become visibly paler at the sight of the necklace, muttering something about "not him... I must warn them..." before taking off into the woods on his own.
((basically Aleph is dropping out, but this leaves open a way for him to mysteriously return))
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Krim shakes his head as he sees Aleph strangely flee. "I do hope these leavings aren't an ill omen to the rest of this trip" he says before standing up and preparing to head down the road agian.
-
I cringe, ears to the far back.
"Well, future doesn't seem too bright, that's for sure... our ranger can be anywhere, probably not even on this plane, I develop a chronic case of bad aim, and now this..."
I think.
"You know, he seemed a bit weird and distanced all of the time... but still, this symbol scared him out of his scales. Too bad, that while it seems he has to "warn" somebody, he apparently didn't think he needs to warn _us_ who are here already. Any idea what it might mean?
And by the way, where is it? Did he take it with him?"
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Ssiran frowns, and shakes his head slowly.
"It doesn't bode well at all. Let's just hope that those of us who remain can still achieve our goals."
((How many of us are left, anyway?))
-
(( Should be the five (http://crimsonflagcomic.com/forum/index.php?topic=486.0) of us... IIRC Geary's on a vacation trip right now or something like that, tho. Also, yay, a gold coin for everyone {:P ))
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((Don't count on me reliably being on until I get back on Tuesday, but I'll try to pop in every day))
"Well, it appears our band is two men down, though I feel as if that encounter was of the worst we'll experience for the time being." The Raki began pilfering the deceased mage of his armor, switching it out for his own. "The armor seems to be unharmed, take need, replace what is broken, and we'll continue on."
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Krim nods "That is the safest path" he says before he prepares himself for the journey ahead. Once he is sure he is ready, he draws some find dirt from his bag, and casts it to the winds, before he begins to play.
(Restarting Travaler's Chant)
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Picking up the necklace that made Aleph so shocked the wizard tries to identify the necklace, following the group while making sure that he isn't very close to the members of his party.
((Take 10 on Perception))
((Edit: What are the chances of a 3 on the same roll? Seems like I'll have good luck next time :p))
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Andre recognizes the etching on the necklace as being an abstract representation of Orcus, the Demon Lord of the Undead. If an Orcus cult is active in the area it could be trouble indeed.
In the meantime, your travels take you to the ruins of the Keep. Ahead, the narrow track widens into a clearing. Great piles of shattered stone blocks and scorched timbers dominate the clearing, sprawling out from its center to the edge of the woods. No plants grow among the ruins or within the clearing. The ground is bare dirt, and although the forest has begun to reclaim the path leading here, it has not intruded into the ruins of the Keep. Yet clearly someone has tampered with the ruins. In the center of the debris, stone blocks and timbers have been gathered into a pile. Someone has cleared a path through the rubble and pulled aside the wreckage to reveal a stone staircase. The stair-case descends into darkness.
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"I do not like the look of this place. How long ago was this place abandoned?" Krim asks as he puts his ocarina away for now.
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"It matters not how long it was abandoned, only that somebody appears to have inhabited it, making the inquiry now as to how long ago this was preformed." The raki placed his left paw on his rapier, readying it in case they ruins were just discovered.
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"Just great..."
I grind my teeth and look around.
"... looks really appealing, isn't it? Makes all of my tail fur stand up... hmm, you think there might be anything interesting under that pile?"
((...or is that just a leftover from the rubble cleanup?))
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There is nothing in the rubble, it seems to be nothing more than debris. The air around the keep is unnaturally still, as if the keep's foreboding aura has driven off any living creature. The silence is only broken by a faint skittering sound that seems to echo up from the stairwell...
This is certainly the keep you were hired to map out though, so now is the time to plan how you will approach it.
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Krim takes a deep breath and relaxed. Creepy place or not, this was the place tasked to check out, and get payed for so he had a job to do. Looking to the others he says "I guess we better setup whos here in a way to best protect us from whatever is down there. Any ideas?"
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Naito thought for a moment before answering Krim. "Perhaps I should go first and ensure that it's safe, as I am the stealthiest of us, and would be least likely to be seen."