Convoy Escort

• Title: Convoy Escort
• Emitter: Rakim
• Characters: Jacob, Alba, MAC-B1G, Decklar, Zyla, Arixillo
• Place: Outside Alexandria
• Time: September 8, 2015
• Summary: A mysterious cargo needs escorting
• APL: 3
• Encounter 1: 3 Wights (CR 5)
• Encounter 2: 1 Cleric, 2 Rangers (CR 5)

For those who have done caravan work before this one seems rather more professional and well-appointed than most. The wagons are well crafted, the merchants and caravanners well dressed and whatever the cargo is it is not in bulk. Curiously several expensive looking chests bear the mark of Eluna prominently on them, and they are loaded under the watchful eyes of some of her Seers. They hand the head a sizeable purse, the lead one murmuring a soft blessing on all before departing. The head is a hard looking well-weathered human who turns to cast his eyes over the party and grunt "Mount up folks, we are moving out in ten"

The convoy, such as it is, seems to consist of three carts each with two drivers. Although one seems to more be riding shotgun so to speak, if we actually had shotguns of course.

Zyla has done all sorts of convoy work before, her order often working as mercenaries and so here she is, as after all it gives her something to do.

Decklar sits atop his Paint and watches as the cargo is loaded. He is relaxed and has his horse positioned so that he will be closer to the center wagon.

Crouched atop the rail of the rear wagon, a faceless, carved-bone mask peers at the road behind the procession from within a shaggy gray pelt. Little attention has been paid to the loading of the cargo, or the finery of the caravan itself; the promise Alba made was to see the cargo be delivered successfully to its destination, and little things like the trip not being underway isn't keeping her from keeping this promise.

MAC-B1G does not possess prior experience in caravan protection, nor does it possess a shotgun. Its pulse projection cannon will need to suffice. The construct steps alongside the wagon near the fragile bone mask. Without contact, per directive.

As it seems the hired guards are ready the caravan boss flicks the reigns and the wagons head off. Being well maintained and with light loads they move faster than most. The driver and guard of the rear caravan cast faintly dubious looks at the bone mask and the war golem, but keep any thoughts to themseles. Sadly the day tends towards the miserable, grey skies and drizzle not making for the most comfortable or pleasant trip along some of the back routes.

Decklar leans over his horses neck and whispers into it's ear before pulling the hood of his cloak up. He lets his horse fall back towards the last wagon and smiles at the construct and masked woman, "Rain is good luck." He shrugs, "At least there wont be any biting flies."

"Much noise," the sullen voice behind the mask grumbles. "Harder it shall be, to hear and to see approaching ambush. 'Ware, horseman, for fine boxes mean fine plunder for those who would raid rather than make."

Zyla trudges along, she doesn't ride the best but she is making do. She shakes her head a bit, At least caravans don't go all that fast. She chuckles, "Sometimes. Rain leads to coughs, try stay dry inside armor."

Arixillo keeps watch, his crossbow in hand.

MAC-B1G expresses no concerns over the weather, insofar as itself is concerned. "Excessive precipitation will degrade road conditions and delay transport." It plods along in pace with the wagon, or as rapidly as it is able. Cyan optical receptors survey the terrain ahead and to the near side.

GAME: Alba rolls perception: (6)+7: 13

GAME: Decklar rolls perception: (4)+8: 12

GAME: Arixillo rolls Perception: (17)+10: 27

GAME: Zyla rolls perception: (3)+11: 14

GAME: Rakim rolls 1d20+16: (8)+16: 24

GAME: Rakim rolls 1d20+16: (4)+16: 20

GAME: Rakim rolls 1d20+16: (19)+16: 35

GAME: MAC-B1G rolls perception: (8)+7: 15

Zyla just trudges along looking around as they go. She stretches now and again to keep herself limber. The large lass chuckling to something in her own head.

Decklar happily rides on. He seems to be enjoying this so far, "It reminds me a bit of The Vast." He chuckles, "You sometimes pray for rain to fall so you don't have to cut your horses ear if you've been to long without water."

Arixillo frowns and aims his crossbow. "We have a couple of hostile-looking figures approaching," he warns. "Whatever they are, they're twisted and have red eyes."

Decklar looks at Arixillo and then scans around to see them drawing his longbow.

GAME: Decklar rolls knowledge/religion: Trained Use Only: 0

GAME: Zyla rolls knowledge/religion: (11)+7: 18

As the caravan plods on, a dark-skinned hand emerges from beneath the pelt, to hold an empty waterskin up to the rain. "Upon the Dune Sea, who owns horses are unthinkably wealthy," she says in answer. "Water from the sky is all but unknown, a story told to keep thirsty youn--" She cuts off, as Arixillo warns of approaching hostiles, rising far more swiftly than her perch should normally allow. As she turns, her pelt flutters up to reveal a foot that only occasionally touches the railing, the Veyshanti apparently hovering mere hairsbreadth above the cart.

MAC-B1G studies the faceplate of unit designate Alba. Similar to itself, the purpose is armor. It pans said faceplate towards Decklar. "Query: How does equine dissection treat dehydration?" The query is abruptly paused at mention of incoming hostiles and the construct's faceplate snaps around in search.

Decklar studies them his horse keeping it's steady pace. He notches an arrow ready for any aggressive movements.

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- ATTENTION -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-

Rakim has dropped a TIMESTOP!

Please +init, then cease all roleplay and actions immediately and wait for Rakim to instruct you further.

For in-combat commands, type: +thelp.

-=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=-

Zyla follows the look and galances that way trying to make them out.

GAME: Zyla rolls initiative: Roll: 12 + Bonus: 2 = Total: 14

GAME: Arixillo rolls initiative: Roll: 17 + Bonus: 4 = Total: 21

GAME: You roll initiative for w1: Roll: 9 + Bonus: 1 = Total: 10

GAME: You roll initiative for w2: Roll: 2 + Bonus: 1 = Total: 3

GAME: You roll initiative for w3: Roll: 20 + Bonus: 1 = Total: 21

GAME: Alba rolls initiative: Roll: 6 + Bonus: 4 = Total: 10

GAME: MAC-B1G rolls initiative: Roll: 14 + Bonus: 2 = Total: 16

GAME: Decklar rolls initiative: Roll: 17 + Bonus: 4 = Total: 21

The lead caravanner gauges distances and speed and decides that making a run for it might be a good idea. But as the lead wagon goes around the corner he finds the road blocked by some fallen trees. Leaving the wagons a little strung out.

GAME: Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round One - Init 21.

It is now w3's turn! Arixillo is next!

GAME: Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round One - Init 21.

It is now Arixillo's turn! Decklar is next!

GAME: Note Flat-footed on Arixillo ended.

GAME: Arixillo rolls HXBAtk: aliased to Ranged+1: (2)+6+1: 9

GAME: Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round One - Init 21.

It is now Decklar's turn! MAC-B1G is next!

GAME: Note Flat-footed on Decklar ended.

GAME: Jacob rolls initiative: Roll: 11 + Bonus: 1 = Total: 12

GAME: Decklar rolls ranged: (10)+6: 16

Arixillo takes a shot, but sitting on a steed isn't something the egalrin is practiced at, and he can't keep the crossbow level. "Bah," he mutters. "Wings or claws for me."

GAME: Decklar rolls 1d8+3: (1)+3: 4

GAME: Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round One - Init 16.

It is now MAC-B1G's turn! Zyla is next!

GAME: Note Flat-footed on MAC-B1G ended.

Decklar using his legs to guide his mount towards the creature he takes aims. But either the rain on his hands or in his eyes sets his shot off slightly and it just grazes the enemy.

GAME: MAC-B1G activates its Titan Armor, gaining: +2 Str,+2 Dex

GAME: Jacob refreshes spells.

GAME: MAC-B1G rolls ranged+1: (8)+5+1: 14

GAME: MAC-B1G rolls 2d6+2+1: (9)+2+1: 12

GAME: Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round One - Init 14.

It is now Zyla's turn! Jacob is next!

GAME: Note Flat-footed on Zyla ended.

"Combat mode engaged," the construct announces, cyan light suddenly glowering bright along its armored plates. The cylindrical weapon mounted upon its scapular plate articulates over its shoulder, is caught in one manuplator while the other connects palm port to the rear. The empowers the weapon system, which charges crackling cyan at its tip before loosing the energy into the approaching threat.

GAME: Zyla rolls melee+1+2: (17)+6+1+2: 26

GAME: Zyla rolls 1d6+3: (1)+3: 4

GAME: Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round One - Init 12.

It is now Jacob's turn! w1 is next!

GAME: Note Flat-footed on Jacob ended.

Zyla surges forward with a yell and charges at the lead enemy. She lashes out with a fist when she gets there, hurting the creature but not taking it down. The giantborn lass swirls around dancing as she moves.

GAME: Jacob rolls Knowledge/Religion: (6)+7: 13

GAME: Jacob casts Aid. Caster Level: 3 DC: 15

GAME: Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round One - Init 10.

It is now w1's turn! Alba is next!

GAME: Rakim rolls 1d20+4: (12)+4: 16

Well that didn't take long, did it?

Jacob wastes no time in getting to work. He gives the battle a quick glance... no, too far away... still too far... there! The Temperance runs toward Arix and places a hand on the eglarin's right shoulder. "Well, let's see if this actually helps..."

GAME: Jacob rolls 1d8+Level: (4)+Level: 4

GAME: Jacob rolls 1d8+3: (6)+3: 9

GAME: Arixillo is not on the initiative list.

One of the twisted creatures charges rapidly foward towards the closest one of the adventurers, being the giantborn monk. Glowing red eyes glare hatefully as twisted and gnawled claw-like hands reach for her, tryting to get to her flesh and failing.

GAME: Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round One - Init 10.

It is now Alba's turn! w2 is next!

GAME: Note Flat-footed on Alba ended.

GAME: Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round One - Init 3.

It is now w2's turn! w3 is next!

GAME: Alba casts Mage Armor. Caster Level: 5 DC: 14

Pushing off from the cart-rail, the masked Veyshanti drifts through the air toward the combatants. In one hand, she draws a wickedly curved, silver dagger, and in her other she plucks the red-glazed husk of a dried beetle and brings it to her mouth. There's a horrible, dry crunching sound, a few flecks of treated chitin falling to the muddy ground, as a glimmering shell of transparent, buglike armor surrounds the Witch like a mantle.

GAME: Rakim rolls 1d20+6: (19)+6: 25

GAME: Rakim rolls 1d4+1: (2)+1: 3

GAME: Zyla rolls fort: (13)+5: 18

And from cover breaks a third of the twisted creatures, moving with a terrible lurching speed. There is a nasty kind of hunger in its eyes as gnarled claws slam into the monk, tearing at her flesh. For a moment a chill filling fills the giantborn, but it doesn't seem to have an effect aside from the wound.

GAME: You damaged Zyla for 3 points. 23 remaining.

GAME: NEW ROUND!

Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round Two - Init 21.

It is now w3's turn! Arixillo is next!

GAME: Rakim rolls 1d20+4: (8)+4: 12

Of course there are now three of the creatures in melee with the Giantborn monk. The fastest of them makes a move to the side and claws fruitlessly at her, letting lose a low sound of frustration as it continues to miss.

GAME: Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round Two - Init 21.

It is now Arixillo's turn! Decklar is next!

GAME: Arixillo rolls HXBAtk+PBS: aliased to Ranged+1+1: (19)+6+1+1: 27

GAME: Arixillo rolls HXBAtk+PBS+1: aliased to Ranged+1+1+1: (20)+6+1+1+1: 29 (THREAT)

GAME: Arixillo rolls HXBDmg+HXBDmg+PBS+PBS: aliased to 1d10+1d10+1+1: (5)+(10)+1+1: 17

GAME: w3 removed from initiative list.

GAME: Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round Two - Init 21.

It is now Decklar's turn! MAC-B1G is next!

Arixillo reloads his crossbow with a fluid motion, then levels it at the wounded foe. The bolt strikes true, entering an eyesocket and punching out through the back of the head. "*That's* more like it!" he says, the base of his beak quirking upward in a grin.

GAME: Decklar rolls ranged+-1+1+1: (2)+6++-1+1+1: 9

GAME: Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round Two - Init 16.

It is now MAC-B1G's turn! Zyla is next!

Decklar seems to be getting it a bit of ironic karma back, between the rain and the wet arrow his shot sails wide of his intended target.

GAME: MAC-B1G rolls melee+1: (1)+7+1: 9 (EPIC FAIL)

GAME: Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round Two - Init 14.

It is now Zyla's turn! Jacob is next!

When the threats surround a taskforce unit, MAC-B1G moves in to assist. The weapon is pushed to articulate back to stowage before it makes a wide swing of reinforced, heavy armored forearm at it. Too wide.

GAME: Zyla rolls melee+1: (11)+6+1: 18

GAME: Zyla rolls melee+1: (13)+6+1: 20

GAME: Zyla rolls melee+1: (13)+6+1: 20

GAME: Zyla rolls 1d6+3: (2)+3: 5

GAME: Zyla rolls 1d6+3: (6)+3: 9

GAME: Zyla rolls 1d6+3: (4)+3: 7

GAME: Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round Two - Init 12.

It is now Jacob's turn! w1 is next!

Zyla looses herself up still having a bit of a dancing motions to her style as she moves with a flurry, fist, fist, followed by a kick, all hitting soundly. "Thanks for joining the fun," she says to MAC and seems to be enjoying herself.

GAME: Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round Two - Init 10.

It is now w1's turn! Alba is next!

GAME: Rakim rolls 1d20+4: (2)+4: 6

Look, a new target. A shiny metallic new target. Or at least it looks like the twisted creature is going for MAC, however whoever it was attacking is safe as the nasty claws don't go anywhere near anyone.

GAME: Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round Two - Init 10.

It is now Alba's turn! w2 is next!

GAME: Alba rolls cmb+3+1: (2)+2+3+1: 8

GAME: Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round Two - Init 3.

It is now w2's turn! Arixillo is next!

GAME: Rakim rolls 1d20+4: (4)+4: 8

Drifting like a leaf on a wind completely unlike the one driving the rain, the masked Veyshanti spreads her arms wide, parting the shaggy fur pelt and revealing loosely-bound pigtails that writhe like snakes, lashing furiously in the gloomy light. All at once, the hair lashes toward the creature beneath it, stretching longer than hair should ever naturally grow as it seeks to bind arms, and foul the thing's ability to harm her compatriots. Sadly, whether the poor lighting or the driving rain, the serpentine hair can't seem to find purchase.

And it looks like the other creature shares the combat abilities of his companion. For despite his, or perhaps her, best efforts the barrage of claws and teeth fail to hit anything.

GAME: NEW ROUND!

Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round Three - Init 21.

It is now Arixillo's turn! Decklar is next!

GAME: Arixillo rolls HXBAtk+PBS+1: aliased to Ranged+1+1+1: (7)+6+1+1+1: 16

GAME: Arixillo rolls HXBDmg+PBS: aliased to 1d10+1: (10)+1: 11

Another whirl of arms and Arix reloads his crossbow; another steady aim and he releases the bolt, this time catching the foe square in the forehead; another enemy defeated. "Keep whittling them down!" he says to the others.

GAME: Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round Three - Init 21.

It is now Decklar's turn! MAC-B1G is next!

GAME: Decklar rolls ranged+1+1-1: (19)+6+1+1+-1: 26

GAME: Decklar rolls 1d8+2+1: (5)+2+1: 8

GAME: w2 removed from initiative list.

Decklar brushes back the water from his eyes as he takes a steady aim. At the last second he makes a clucking noise with his tongue and his horses steps slightly to the left. The arrow flies hitting the beast solidly in the chest.

GAME: Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round Three - Init 16.

It is now MAC-B1G's turn! Zyla is next!

GAME: MAC-B1G rolls melee+1: (6)+7+1: 14

GAME: MAC-B1G rolls melee+1: (13)+7+1: 21

GAME: MAC-B1G rolls 1d8+5+1: (1)+5+1: 7

GAME: Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round Three - Init 14.

It is now Zyla's turn! Jacob is next!

MAC-B1G steps up and swings both arms at the creature. Only one connects, a glancing blow that still thuds metal against flesh.

GAME: Zyla rolls melee+1: (9)+6+1: 16

GAME: Zyla rolls melee+1: (4)+6+1: 11

GAME: Zyla rolls 1d6+3: (1)+3: 4

GAME: Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round Three - Init 12.

It is now Jacob's turn! w1 is next!

The giantborn lass continues swirling around and fist, and kick fly at the remaining one. Only the punch hits but not enough to drop it.

GAME: Jacob casts Bull's Strength. Caster Level: 3 DC: 15

GAME: Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round Three - Init 10.

It is now w1's turn! Alba is next!

GAME: Rakim rolls 1d20+4: (2)+4: 6

GAME: Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round Three - Init 10.

It is now Alba's turn! Arixillo is next!

"Stubborn little..." Jacob huffs and jogs toward Zyla. "Here. Let me help." He places a hand on her right shoulder... or wherever he can reach. "Better?" She should feel far more strength than is probably necessary flow through her.

GAME: Alba rolls cmd+3+1: (1)+cmd+3+1: 5 (EPIC FAIL)

GAME: NEW ROUND!

Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round Four - Init 21.

It is now Arixillo's turn! Decklar is next!

GAME: Arixillo rolls HXBAtk+PBS+1: aliased to Ranged+1+1+1: (7)+6+1+1+1: 16

With a frustrated snarl, Alba lashes out with her hair once more. This time, the black fibers find good purchase, winding their way around the creature's ankles, and the hair lashes upward, as though to pull the monster's feet from under it... but either the thing has a more solid stance than most, or in her irritation Alba completely forgot about leverage, or both. Either way, with a mighty pull... the Witch splatters facefirst into the rain-lashed mud at the wight's feet.

GAME: Arixillo rolls HXBDmg+PBS: aliased to 1d10+1: (10)+1: 11

Whirrrclick*thwack!* Another bolt, another monster laid out. Arix nods, then scans the area. "Everyone alright?" he calls to everyone, including the rest of the caravan.

GAME: MAC-B1G deactivates its Titan Armor.

GAME: Rakim removes the timestop.

Timestop by Rakim has left.

GAME: You remove the timestop.

Decklar blinks and looks at Arixillo, "Aye yes fine, that's a mighty powerful crossbow you have. And you're very good with it."

Zyla cracks her neck a little. Her muscles are still swollen with the power of the blessing and she almost is sorry there is nothing to hit, "I am fun, quite exhilerating. Glad I took this contract."

The mud around Alba's face bubbles in answer to Arixillo's question. A moment later, the Witch pushes herself up, muttering dire imprecations in a guttural, harsh language. Scraping her hands over the mask to clear it of mud, she floats wordlessly back to the cart, to crouch on the rail and give off something very like the air of a large cat suffering wounded pride.

After scanning for further threats and locating none, MAC-B1G turns its focus to the soiled mask. "Unit designate Alba, are you in need of repairs?" That is its presumption on the altered activities.

The skin at the base of Arix's beak quirks upward in an avian grin. "Thanks! Made it myself," he says. "Still a work in progress, but so far so good." The egalrin gives his crossbow a slight polishing before reloading it. "I'm trying for a weapon that will be worthy of a legacy -- which means starting its legacy, of course."

Decklar nods as he rides closer stopping a few feet away he rest his bow on his lap, "I understand completely. I'm a bowmaker too. A weapon feels better when it's made by the hand that will wield it."

Decklar extends his hand to the Avian warrior, "My name is Decklar Javar."

Meanwhile as the adventurers take care of the undead creatures the caravanners have been clearing the road. The lead stomps over towards the party and the corposes "Fucking wights. I hear there may be a bounty on them" he adds helpfully "Best be on our way quickly" he adds then with a brisk nod heads back to the wagons.

"No," is all Alba says, settling on top of the cart rail, staring at the twisted bodies lying in the mud. "Stupid wetlander needs, stupid wetlander weather, stupid wetlander creatures..." as she carries on just loud enough to be heard, a brightly-banded red viper slithers out from under her pelt, arching up to close its teeth on her chin. "And stupid, stupid Alba for not eating a stupid bug rather than be drawn to this benighted YES I KNOW YOU ARE NOT A BUG NOW THANK YOU."

Arixillo shakes Decklar's hand. "Arixillo, or you can call me Arix," the egalrin replies.

Decklar turns confused to the lead caravaner. "You were just attacked now you're telling you're guards to leave?" He looks to the others not hiding the confused expression at all.

Zyla stretches again, getting kinks out and nods to the caravanner and moves over towards, "That was exhilerating, shall we continue?" she says to the others. She looks at Decklar, "They just want us to continue on."

Decklar nods to Zyla, "Ah well that makes more sense then.." Another slight pause, "How is the bounty collected on these things?" Looking at Arix, "Though you did get the actual kill shots."

The lead looks back to Decklar with a faintly confused expression "What? I mean the carvan needs to keep on moving..." he says with a nod to Zyla and a mutter under his breath. He hoists himself up into the shotgun seat and nods to the driver to continue onwards.

"This is a positive report," the construct notes to Alba before move to the fore of the convoy to assist with any more clearing necessary.

Zyla nods her head and moves to head up with the caravan. "Not sure, I think I heard something about the bounty, but really my order is more about the contracts rather than free form." she shakes her head a bit.

Tugging her pelt back around her sodden form, the Witch turns her eyes ahead of them, peering through the rain in hopes of finding something to take out her frustration upon.

GAME: Alba rolls perception: (18)+7: 25

GAME: Decklar rolls perception: (12)+8: 20

GAME: Zyla rolls perception: (6)+11: 17

GAME: Rakim rolls 1d20+10: (3)+10: 13

GAME: Rakim rolls 1d20+10: (20)+10: 30

GAME: Rakim rolls 1d20: (8): 8

GAME: MAC-B1G rolls perception: (18)+7: 25

GAME: Arixillo rolls Perception: (18)+10: 28

The rain starts to let off a little, but the day remains cold and grim. Miserable moments pass and after the excitement boredom starts to set it. And as if on some kind of cue an arrow streaks out from the woods and into the throat of the lead driver. In a spasm he pulls on the reigns and the horses turn swiftly to one side, pulling the wagon over and blocking the path, crates and chests spilling out.

=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- ATTENTION -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-

Rakim has dropped a TIMESTOP!

Please +init, then cease all roleplay and actions immediately and wait for Rakim to instruct you further.

For in-combat commands, type: +thelp.

-=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=-

GAME: Arixillo rolls initiative: Roll: 20 + Bonus: 4 = Total: 24

GAME: Decklar rolls initiative: Roll: 18 + Bonus: 4 = Total: 22

GAME: Alba rolls initiative: Roll: 10 + Bonus: 4 = Total: 14

GAME: Zyla rolls initiative: Roll: 13 + Bonus: 2 = Total: 15

GAME: MAC-B1G rolls initiative: Roll: 14 + Bonus: 2 = Total: 16

GAME: You roll initiative for C1: Roll: 7 + Bonus: 0 = Total: 7

GAME: You roll initiative for r1: Roll: 7 + Bonus: 4 = Total: 11

GAME: You roll initiative for r2: Roll: 2 + Bonus: 4 = Total: 6

GAME: Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round One - Init 24.

It is now Arixillo's turn! Decklar is next!

GAME: Note Flat-footed on Arixillo ended.

GAME: Arixillo rolls HXBAtk: aliased to Ranged+1: (11)+6+1: 18

GAME: Rakim rolls 1d100: (39): 39

GAME: Arixillo rolls HXBDmg: aliased to 1d10: (2): 2

GAME: Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round One - Init 22.

It is now Decklar's turn! MAC-B1G is next!

GAME: Note Flat-footed on Decklar ended.

Arixillo squints, adjusting him aim for the trees and undergrowth. The bolt flies out, clipping one of the ambushers.

GAME: Decklar rolls ranged -1: (10)+6+-1: 15

GAME: Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round One - Init 16.

It is now MAC-B1G's turn! Zyla is next!

GAME: Note Flat-footed on MAC-B1G ended.

Decklar whistles and uses his knees to guide his paint further up the trail shorting the range. He lets his arrow fly but either a stray branch, wind or just an off shot the arrow sails wide.

GAME: Jacob rolls initiative: Roll: 2 + Bonus: 1 = Total: 3

GAME: MAC-B1G activates its Titan Armor, gaining: +2 Str,+2 Dex

GAME: MAC-B1G rolls ranged-6: (18)+5+-6: 17

GAME: Rakim rolls 1d100: (2): 2

GAME: MAC-B1G rolls 2d6+2: (6)+2: 8

"Threats detected. Engaging." The golem's armor energizes once more and it's primary weapon system deploys. A cyan bolt of energy is loosed at the detected bowman, impacting and arcing across him.

GAME: Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round One - Init 15.

It is now Zyla's turn! Alba is next!

GAME: Note Flat-footed on Zyla ended.

GAME: Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round One - Init 14.

It is now Alba's turn! r1 is next!

GAME: Note Flat-footed on Alba ended.

GAME: Alba casts False Life. Caster Level: 5 DC: 15

GAME: Alba rolls 1d10+5: (3)+5: 8

The large lass starts to move towards the figures, stopping after a bit and then moving so that she is fully on the defensive. Zyla shifts a little her movements still like dancing.

GAME: Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round One - Init 11.

It is now r1's turn! C1 is next!

GAME: Rakim rolls 1d20+9: (18)+9: 27

GAME: Rakim rolls 1d8+2: (3)+2: 5

GAME: You damaged Decklar for 5 points. 11 remaining.

Her sour mood lifts completely as the arrow pierces the throat of the driver ahead of them. "HA! Foolish bandits, will they live to regret their choice of target? Skimming the ground, the Witch begins her approach, slicing her palm with a silver dagger. Still laughing in slow, breathy cackles, she smears the welling blood over the forehead of her mask, a bilious ripple of light flowing over her body from the crimson mark. Oh, but Alba is going to have a good time now.

The hooded figure with the bow reacts calmly to the shots that hit him. He sights down the bow towards the nearest and most prominent figure on horseback and lets lose an arrow. It streaks down and thuds into Decklar, the bowman then moving further into cover as he nocks another arrow.

GAME: Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round One - Init 7.

It is now C1's turn! r2 is next!

GAME: Rakim rolls 1d8+3: (6)+3: 9

The other figure moves closer to the archer and touches a holy symbol around his neck. He prays quietly and a black glow gathers around the archer. It looks nasty but it seems to heal the other humanoid.

GAME: Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round One - Init 6.

It is now r2's turn! Jacob is next!

GAME: Rakim rolls 1d20+9: (1)+9: 10 (EPIC FAIL)

From the other side of the path comes a rather loud twang, followed by some cursing as the previously hidden archer falls out of his camoflagued snipers spot and hits the ground.

GAME: Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round One - Init 3.

It is now Jacob's turn! Arixillo is next!

GAME: Note Flat-footed on Jacob ended.

GAME: Jacob rolls 2d6: (7): 7

GAME: You damaged Decklar for -7 points. 17 remaining.

GAME: NEW ROUND!

Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round Two - Init 24.

It is now Arixillo's turn! Decklar is next!

GAME: Arixillo rolls HXBAtk: aliased to Ranged+1: (6)+6+1: 13

Arixillo fires another bolt, this time hitting a tree.

"Right, enough of that."

Bad position to be in. Jacob makes a snap decision and runs toward the mount... then stops. It's not clear what he's up to until he breaks off the glass and bronze hourglass from his neck and raises it high...

"Reverse the hands of fate!" He slams his right fist onto the ground, and within a blink, a shockwave of positive energy fires out from him.

GAME: Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round Two - Init 22.

It is now Decklar's turn! MAC-B1G is next!

GAME: Decklar rolls ranged -1: (16)+6+-1: 21

GAME: Rakim rolls 1d100: (31): 31

GAME: Decklar rolls 1d8+2: (1)+2: 3

GAME: Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round Two - Init 16.

It is now MAC-B1G's turn! Zyla is next!

Decklar curses first when the arrow strikes him hard pushing into his chain shirt enough to hurt him. But moments later the pain lessens. He looks at his horse. "Sorry Artax," He says as he slides off using the horse as cover before firing an arrow at the apparent cleric and watching his graze the man.

GAME: MAC-B1G rolls ranged-6: (1)+5+-6: 0 (EPIC FAIL)

GAME: Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round Two - Init 15.

It is now Zyla's turn! Alba is next!

MAC-B1G traverses to an alternate target when the other sniper breaks cover. The golem did not expect the fall, however, and the energy discharge sails right over.

GAME: Zyla rolls melee+1+2: (11)+6+1+2: 20

GAME: Zyla rolls 1d6+3: (5)+3: 8

GAME: Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round Two - Init 14.

It is now Alba's turn! r1 is next!

Zyla moved closer last time so that she could charge now. She surges forward into a run, covering the distance much faster than some might think and throws a flying fist at the one they think is a cleric. She hits solidly.

GAME: Alba casts Chill Touch. Caster Level: 5 DC: 14

GAME: Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round Two - Init 11.

It is now r1's turn! C1 is next!

GAME: Rakim rolls 1d20+10: (14)+10: 24

GAME: Rakim rolls 1d8+3: (2)+3: 5

GAME: You damaged Zyla for 5 points. 18 remaining.

GAME: Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round Two - Init 7.

It is now C1's turn! r2 is next!

You paged Zyla with 'You have any reach or the step-up feat?'

"Oh, vile creature," Alba cackles, toes dragging against the ground as she propels herself over the rough terrain, "oh, so sorry you will be, your soul in your master's clutches for all eternity, god-bothering bandit dying screaming, pleading for his master to turn his face away..." the unnerving patter continues in this vein, as tendrils of frost begins to creep down her hair, collecting at the thrashing tips of her pigtails.

GAME: Zyla rolls will: (4)+4: 8

The nearby Ranger spins towards the charging monk and lets lose his nocked arrow, the shaft flying true and drawing blood along her side. The presumed cleric takes a small step backwards and again lists his voice in prayer, a horrible gutteral sound. Black light emits from him and sinks into Zyla, who can feel her body seize up, holding her in place she can do little more than breath. For his part the last archer gets up to his feet and nocks an arrow.

GAME: Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round Two - Init 6.

It is now r2's turn! Jacob is next!

GAME: Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round Two - Init 3.

It is now Jacob's turn! Arixillo is next!

GAME: Jacob casts Shield of Faith. Caster Level: 3 DC: 14

GAME: NEW ROUND!

Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round Three - Init 24.

It is now Arixillo's turn! Decklar is next!

GAME: Arixillo rolls HXBAtk: aliased to Ranged+1: (10)+6+1: 17

Jacob closes the distance in short order, ducks behind the quite impressive stallion, and places his hand on the man's right shoulder. "I fear I haven't properly introduced myself." He grins. "Jacob Tennyson, at your behest!" Hopefully the man wouldn't notice the near-invisible barrier of divine force.

GAME: Rakim rolls 1d100: (99): 99

GAME: Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round Three - Init 22.

It is now Decklar's turn! MAC-B1G is next!

GAME: Decklar rolls ranged +1-1: (10)+6+1+-1: 16

Another bolt from Arix, another perforated bush.

GAME: Rakim rolls 1d100: (47): 47

GAME: Decklar rolls 1d8+3: (3)+3: 6

GAME: Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round Three - Init 16.

It is now MAC-B1G's turn! Zyla is next!

Decklar feels a bit more protected after the Jacob's spell. He moves quickly out from behind Artax and closes distance between him and the cleric letting loose another arrow this one striking home.

MAC-B1G has disconnected.

GAME: Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round Three - Init 15.

It is now Zyla's turn! Alba is next!

GAME: Zyla rolls will: (5)+4: 9

GAME: Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round Three - Init 14.

It is now Alba's turn! r1 is next!

Zyla is up in their faces but she isn't able to move. She is frozen where she is.

GAME: Alba casts Cause Fear. Caster Level: 5 DC: 14

GAME: Rakim rolls 1d20+6: (20)+6: 26

GAME: Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round Three - Init 11.

It is now r1's turn! C1 is next!

GAME: Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round Three - Init 7.

It is now C1's turn! r2 is next!

GAME: Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round Three - Init 6.

It is now r2's turn! Jacob is next!

GAME: Rakim rolls 1d20+9: (12)+9: 21

You paged Alba with 'Ac 18?'

"...And when the last of your blood seeps into the dirt, all who have ever known you will dance, dance for the freedom from you that you have granted," Alba continues, spreading her arms wide as she continues to float toward the cleric, bringing her hands up to cover her mask. "You will die forgotten, in pain and blood and fear, forever rent by the tender mercies of your dark master, wallowing in bile and foetor for all of time, unless you--" Lunging forward, she pulls her hands away from her face, the image of something monstrous sculpted of black light stretching and growing between outflung fingers. "--FLEE, COWARD!!"

GAME: Rakim rolls 1d8+2: (2)+2: 4

You paged Alba with '4 off false life'

GAME: Decklar rolls will: (5)+3: 8

GAME: Rakim rolls 1d20+9: (12)+9: 21

GAME: Rakim rolls 1d8+2: (8)+2: 10

GAME: You damaged Jacob for 10 points. 8 remaining.

Taking their cue from the adventurers playbook it seems the Rangers have decided to shoot the casters. The one closes to Alba launches an arrow at her, that strikes true but doesn't seem to do any visible damage. Having gotten to his feet the clutzy one shows he is not all thumbs and sends a shaft solidly into Jacob. Finaly the cleric pales a little, swallowing in fear be he raises his symbol and yells at Decklar "DROP" and the fighter can feel the force of the humans evil will causing him to drop his weapon.

GAME: Rakim rolls 1d100: (71): 71

GAME: Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round Three - Init 3.

It is now Jacob's turn! Arixillo is next!

GAME: Jacob rolls 1d8+Cleric: (3)+3: 6

GAME: Jacob casts Cure Light Wounds. Caster Level: 3 DC: 14

GAME: You damaged Jacob for -6 points. 14 remaining.

GAME: NEW ROUND!

Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round Four - Init 24.

It is now Arixillo's turn! Decklar is next!

Jacob falls to one knee.

It's a sudden thing, without any warning. He pulls the arrow that decided to shank itself in his right thigh, drops in to the ground, and presses his holy symbol against his chest "Navos save us... from evil."

He sounds awful winded, but soon the air comes sucking back to his chest as the positive energy rushes through him. "Ahhhhhh... okay. What now..."

GAME: Arixillo rolls HXBAtk: aliased to Ranged+1: (9)+6+1: 16

GAME: Rakim rolls 1d100: (57): 57

GAME: Arixillo rolls HXBDmg: aliased to 1d10: (1): 1

GAME: Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round Four - Init 22.

It is now Decklar's turn! MAC-B1G is next!

Arixillo finally hits the enemy cleric. Sort of. Well, there's at least another scratch.

GAME: Decklar rolls ranged +1-2: (2)+6+1+-2: 7

GAME: Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round Four - Init 16.

It is now MAC-B1G's turn! Zyla is next!

GAME: Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round Four - Init 15.

It is now Zyla's turn! Alba is next!

GAME: Zyla rolls will: (14)+4: 18

GAME: Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round Four - Init 14.

It is now Alba's turn! r1 is next!

Decklar curses as he drops hastily to his knee to pick up the bow. Visibly shaken by being controlled against his will he fires off another arrow that flies so far wide it's not clear who he was shooting at.

Zyla stirs...she is frozen still, but she feels her body start to loosen.

GAME: Alba casts Vomit Swarm. Caster Level: 5 DC: 15

GAME: Rakim rolls 1d20+4: (11)+4: 15

GAME: Rakim rolls 1d20+4: (2)+4: 6

GAME: Alba rolls 1d20+1: (12)+1: 13

GAME: Alba rolls 1d6: (4): 4

GAME: Alba rolls 1d2: (1): 1

GAME: Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round Four - Init 11.

It is now r1's turn! C1 is next!

GAME: Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round Four - Init 7.

It is now C1's turn! r2 is next!

GAME: Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round Four - Init 6.

It is now r2's turn! Jacob is next!

GAME: Rakim rolls 1d20+10: (2)+10: 12

GAME: Rakim rolls 1d20+9: (3)+9: 12

"He does not flee? Haaaah.... he shall be sorr--" Alba's voice cuts off, a strangled chuckle heard, muffled and low. The front of her neck begins to... bulge disconcertingly, until it seems the witch struggles to breath around a fist-sized ball, crammed deep in her throat. With a convulsive lunge, she looses a torrent of coin-sized spiders from her mouth, falling down onto the cleric's head in a frenzied, biting mass that wracks the cleric with poison as they tear at his flesh.

And suddenly it is raining bugs. Spiders to be precise. As they bite and chew and venomise the cleric his ranger companion pales a little, but still manages to fire at the floating insect dispenser. And miss. The other sniper decides to stick with the 'kill the healer' plan, but manages to miss as well. For his part the Cleric has had enough, he turns and runs through the woods, trailing a mass of spiders behind him as he gibbers in fear.

GAME: Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round Four - Init 3.

It is now Jacob's turn! Arixillo is next!

GAME: Jacob casts Command. Caster Level: 3 DC: 14

GAME: Rakim rolls 1d20+2: (19)+2: 21

GAME: NEW ROUND!

Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round Five - Init 24.

It is now Arixillo's turn! Decklar is next!

GAME: Arixillo rolls HXBAtk: aliased to Ranged+1: (19)+6+1: 26

It may be because he is tired, or of the injury. But when Jacob moves to give the command to cease and desist, it doesn't seem to come out right. Instead he finds himself exposed, in the middle of enemy territory...

...and in the midst of allies. Good. This is fair enough.

GAME: Arixillo rolls HXBAtk: aliased to Ranged+1: (17)+6+1: 24

GAME: Arixillo rolls HXBDmg+HXBDmg: aliased to 1d10+1d10: (5)+(8): 13

GAME: Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round Five - Init 22.

It is now Decklar's turn! MAC-B1G is next!

GAME: Decklar rolls ranged +1-1: (13)+6+1+-1: 19

Arixillo takes a deep breath, then aims at one of the snipers. The bolt flies true, hitting squarely in the torso.

GAME: Rakim rolls 1d100: (99): 99

GAME: Rakim rolls 1d100: (67): 67

GAME: Decklar rolls 1d8+3: (5)+3: 8

GAME: Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round Five - Init 16.

It is now MAC-B1G's turn! Zyla is next!

GAME: Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round Five - Init 15.

It is now Zyla's turn! Alba is next!

Hearing the thwack and grunt of the crossbow bolt hitting Deck moves and sends his own projectile towards the would be sniper. It's a solid hit and if the man survives he will be doomed to being a village guard in the middle of nowhere while others have great adventures.

GAME: Zyla rolls melee+1: (9)+6+1: 16

GAME: Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round Five - Init 14.

It is now Alba's turn! r1 is next!

Zyla moves up to the closest sniper to her now that she can move and channels extra energy into a strike, but misses.

GAME: Alba rolls melee+3: (13)+2+3: 18

GAME: Alba rolls 1d6: (6): 6

GAME: Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round Five - Init 11.

It is now r1's turn! C1 is next!

GAME: Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round Five - Init 7.

It is now C1's turn! r2 is next!

GAME: Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round Five - Init 6.

It is now r2's turn! Jacob is next!

GAME: Rakim rolls 1d20+9: (14)+9: 23

GAME: Rakim rolls 1d20+9: (4)+9: 13

GAME: Rakim rolls 1d8+1: (1)+1: 2

You paged Alba with 'Another 2 off you false life'

"RUN! RUN, GOD-BOTHERER!" Alba shrieks, turning over backwards in midair... which brings the unfortunate archer into her view, upside-down. "...Pah. Hunstman meat," she spits contemptuously, her frost-sheathed pigtails lancing out and stabbing deep into his neck, flesh cracking under the terrible chill radiating from her hair.

The bandit close to the party has seen better days. Shot, chilled and general on his last legs. Still he grits his teeth and loses an arrow towards the floating witch, even as the chill sinks into his muscles. Again it hits, and again no visible damage. The sniper on the road manages to glane an arrow from Jacob's armor, and the cleric is running for the hills.

GAME: Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round Five - Init 3.

It is now Jacob's turn! Arixillo is next!

GAME: Jacob rolls 2d6: (2): 2

GAME: You damaged Jacob for -2 points. 16 remaining.

GAME: You damaged Decklar for -2 points. 17 remaining.

GAME: You damaged Alba for -2 points. 23 remaining.

GAME: You damaged Zyla for -2 points. 20 remaining.

GAME: You damaged MAC-B1G for -2 points. 34 remaining.

GAME: You damaged Arixillo for -2 points. 19 remaining.

GAME: NEW ROUND!

Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round Six - Init 24.

It is now Arixillo's turn! Decklar is next!

Jacob moves yet again, straight into the heart of the fight, and slams his right fist onto the ground. "Forward! We can't stop now!" While this burst may not be as impressive, it does its job handily.

Funny story... it passes right over the archer and IGNORES him.

GAME: Arixillo rolls HXBAtk: aliased to Ranged+1: (17)+6+1: 24

GAME: Rakim rolls 1d100: (88): 88

GAME: Arixillo rolls HXBDmg: aliased to 1d10: (1): 1

Arixillo clips one of the snipers across the cheek.

GAME: Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round Six - Init 22.

It is now Decklar's turn! MAC-B1G is next!

GAME: Decklar rolls ranged +1-1: (19)+6+1+-1: 25

GAME: Rakim rolls 1d100: (19): 19

GAME: Decklar rolls 1d8+3: (2)+3: 5

GAME: Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round Six - Init 16.

It is now MAC-B1G's turn! Zyla is next!

GAME: Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round Six - Init 15.

It is now Zyla's turn! Alba is next!

Decklar takes what he believes is the perfect aim and lets the arrow fly. At the last second it glances off a small branch that the ranger had looked through. The arrow careens just past the enemies face.

GAME: Zyla rolls melee+1: (12)+6+1: 19

GAME: Zyla rolls melee+1: (9)+6+1: 16

The giantborn monk, Zyla, whips her hands around as she lays into the sniper in front of her, dropping him.

GAME: Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round Six - Init 14.

It is now Alba's turn! r1 is next!

GAME: r1 removed from initiative list.

GAME: Alba rolls intimidate: (9)+10: 19

And now, the lone, untouched emeny remains. One of his fellows are dead, the other had fled, and Alba's mask turns toward the One Who Watched It Happen. And it's to him she floats next, frost-tipped pigtails snapping in the air like hungry snakes. "Spiders, cold, arrows, fists.... oh, little bandit, little bird fallen from his nest, what may it be that kills you, do you think? Snakes, perhaps?" And right on cue, the red viper slithers out from under Alba's hair, hissing and baring its fangs. "Fire? Monsters, mayhap? All manner of ills may befall a stupid bandit who seeks to take what is not his..."

GAME: Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round Six - Init 7.

It is now C1's turn! r2 is next!

GAME: Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round Six - Init 6.

It is now r2's turn! Jacob is next!

GAME: Rakim advances the initiative order.

Round Six - Init 3.

It is now Jacob's turn! Arixillo is next!

Jacob huffs and dusts off his robes. "Well then, I do believe that's it for me..." He takes in a breath and heads back toward the wagon. "Yell if you need emergency assistance. That other one isn't going to last the evening, I think."

His erstwhile allies dead or gone, and a deep terrifying figure rounding on him the remaining ranger looks through the bush and decides he is getting too old for this shit. Having no shame he turns and bolts into the forest behind him.

MAC-B1G has connected.

Decklar watches the other man run and chuckles. He moves towards Artax and pets his neck whispering in his ear before mounting up and heading back to the lead wagon.

Jacob has disconnected.

GAME: MAC-B1G deactivates its Titan Armor.

GAME: Rakim removes the timestop.

Timestop by Rakim has left.

GAME: You remove the timestop.

As the party has been fighting the ambushers, the wagoneers have been getting the horses calmed, and the wagon righted. Aside from the dead body laid out carefully and some scuffs it looks much like it did before the second ambush. The lead gives the party a brief nod of thanks as he takes the reigns.

Decklar takes a place close to the lead wagon, "We won't have another death."

On her way to the carts, Alba pauses, descending to touch down next to the dead body. Her mask tilts to one side, and her hands disappear back into her pelt, emerging once more with the waterskin, filled in the rain. Pulling out the stopper, she kneels, carefully dribbling a small stream onto the body's mouth, then closing the bag, tucking it under his hands. "May you never thirst," she murmurs, and floats on back up to take her perch on the rear cart.

MAC-B1G has disconnected.

Decklar watches the witch's little ritual with a look of respect.

"Tell that to his window" the lead grumbles to Decklar, but Alba's ritual gets a look of respect for a moment. The caravan roves on, unbothered for several hours. They go down a mostly hidden trail that winds into the hill, narrowing to a bare wagon length at one stage and then to a small fortress with a thick wall and heavy gate that backs into a hill. There several hooded and robe figures in the colours of Eluna emerge. The lead of that group talks to the lead of the caravan and after some talk and a look at the body the lead clergy hands out a bigger purse as the wagons are emptied and the gates shut with a loud clang.