PRP: Jungle Trek
<OOC> Elisabeth says, "for the record, eveyone please oocly state class and level?" <OOC> Hun'rar says, "paladin3/Sorcerer1" <OOC> Pelka is an Artificer 5 <OOC> Braith says, "Bloodrager 3" <OOC> Mocharaos druid 2 <OOC> Azarval says, "And I'm a Paladin 2" <OOC> Elisabeth says, "kewl." <OOC> Elisabeth says, "okay, the next 'for the record' bit: This is a Death Consent PrP run by a player. This does mean that your character can die in this plot. If you're okay with this, please oocly state consent." <OOC> Braith says, "I consent" <OOC> Azarval says, "I consent" <OOC> Hun'rar consents <OOC> Pelka does too! <OOC> Mocharaos is good with dead
The Inquisition has many things going on at once, and many volunteers from among the membership of the Adventurer's Guild to help. One group of volunteers is going into the tunnels on an exploratory mission... while another group, your group, has been sent to meet with Hearthguard Ilas-Julan at the Althean temple, right here in Alexandria. You've all been told that he will give you further instructions about your mission.
Mocharaos had been looking to listen in on rumors and maybe make some money and get a warm meal, the Sith'makar volunteering quickly to help. The druid had gathered up her belongings, club, shield, and drums before tucking everything together and making sure her pack and rig were all closed up tight so nothing fell off. A festive bell having been tied around her tail as she gives it a few good thumps, eagerly ready to move out with the others.
Braith isn't always that confortable when dealing with titles such as Inquisition and temples. She is a follower of Reos, but her family isn't always looked on in the best lights. The bloodrager needs the work though and that is what find her head today. She moves along with the others as she heads to find out what their job will be.
Hun'rar is always ready to help, the Warden is always willing to help other good natured temples as well. Thus the heavily armored knights find himself arriving at the temple ready for instructions as to how to proceed next. With any luck it will involve some quick smiting.
As a paladin of Daeus, Azarval is used to working closely with the Temple of Althea. In fact, his adoptive mother had been a cleric of Althea. So, the Temple of Althea feels like a second home to him. He seems completely at ease as he waits to recieve the further instructions.
Pelka files into the temple with the other adventurers. Once he finds a place to stand he begins to root around in a small satchel he wears. Occasionally a clank of metal can be heard from within, along with a few clinks from lighter pieces. And sometimes there's a faint crackle.
Hearthguard Ilas-Julan is a tall sith-makar, just shy of six feet in height, and strongly muscled. His scales are mostly a green-blue color, with streaks of brown and black... he's kinda 'camoflague' in color. He wears the robes of his position, and a unique holy symbol of his goddess around his neck - it's a wooden disc, apparently carved by hand, with the "Telmentar" star carved out of the middle of it. Though carved by hand, it's exquisite in its smoothness and simplicity, a beautiful piece of handycraft... and useful for a cleric of Althea, such as Ilas-Julan.
When the party is fully gathered, he says, "Greetings, all. Thank you for coming to help us in this time of need. One who served the cause of Light was wounded on the mission in which he served, and the injury has been infected. Though we have treated it both with mundane means and magicks... the infection always returns. We have decided that we must send envoys to entreat a shamaness of whom I know in a village in the jungles of Am'shere. She is an expert in dealing with infections and, I fear, the injured man's only hope of survival. If you require some time to prepare yourselves for a trek through jungles, please take the time now, and return her within the hour, for the use of the portal has already been scheduled for your departure."
Hun'rar thumps his armored gauntlet on his shield "I am always prepared, for as soon as the portal is available we should leave. In the meantime I offer my prayers to Gilead for this man and for success on the hunt to find our Shamaness." he adds with a smile.
Azarval bows to the Hearthguard respectfully. "I, too, stand ready for the journey." He looks at the others, waiting for them to make their statements.
Mocharaos is rather short when it comes to her race, barely over five feet herself. She smiles seeing Ilas-Julan, giving a polite bow, "Shaman." she says with a warm tone, fond of another of her caste. "I am ready and willing." a look to Hun'rar as she nods, "We have time perhaps to offer quick thanks and sacrafice to the Hunter." as she starts digging around in her pack until she gets out some packets of herbs and a small censer.
Pelka blinks and cocks his head to one side. "I've always wanted to visit Am'Shere," he remarks. "Ah, although not for this reason." He closes his beak.
When the party is fully prepared and ready to go, Ilas-Julan personally escorts you all to the portal. "You will need to travel north by north-east from the fortress, into the jungle. Two days' walk will get you to a large river. Stay on the side on which you approach it, and follow it northwards. It will lead you directly to the village where you will find the shamaness An-Meik", he says. Turning, then, to Mocharaos, he lifts the leather thong from which hangs his wooden, hand-carved holy symbol from around his neck and holds it out to her. "Show An-Meik this, so that she will know that the request for aid comes from me... else she may not wish to offer assistance to 'softskins'", he explains.
Pelka peers at Mocharos and then ventures, "Ah, anything else we should know about this shaman? Does she have any particular opinions on Kulthian artifice?"
Mocharaos lights the herbs, filling the air with soothing, calming scents. "Clarity for the hunt ahead, Hunter bless our eyes and ears. Keep us shrouded among your trees." the censer wobbles slowly back and forth on a short chain, a cheap ceramic globe that the smoke gently issues forth. As she is offered the symbol, she slips it around her neck and says, "Next to the watchful arms of my husband. We will not fail." the symbol sitting next to a vial of ash around her neck. A small pause as she looks to Pelka, "I am young, and do not know every shaman of the forest. Perhaps Shaman Ilas-Julan can better awnser that."
Ilas-Julan ponders the question a bit, then says, "She is of the thought that the Empress should not be making peace with those who are not sith-makar, but that our people should be conquering all others, to rule by right of the dragon blood in our veins. It would be wise to not argue this with her. So far as Kulthian artifice goes... I don't believe she has much personal interest in it, no." He then turns to Mocharaos and bows his head to her, for how and where she wears the necklace he just gave to her, without saying a word about it.
Hun'rar grins "I have spent my youth in Am'Shere with the Blackclaw tribe, although I am no Sith'makar I hope to be of help. In fact the dragons blood flows in my veins to boot, I think we will be ok." he offers with a smile.
Hun'rar adjusts his helmet and shield, sword loose in its scabard as he steps through the portal.
Pelka gives the Sith a long look before turning to step through the portal.
Braith moves to head through the portal with the others.
Once the others have asked their questions, Azarval steps through the portal, shield readied in cas there's trouble.
Mocharaos gives a little nod, and bows her head before she too goes on through.
The party finds itself, shortly after leaving the fortress in which lies the portal, in a vast jungle that thickens quickly as they travel. The first day and night pass uneventfully, although the humidity and heat rises as you travel deeper into the dense greenery, especially as the second day of travel begins.
Pelka tries his best to fly above and sometimes ahead of the party. Every time he does he lands after a few minutes, looking bedraggled. "I never imagined it would be so humid," he admits. "The air is so thick...it feels like I'm swimming." He keeps a thin, long-barelled thunderbelcher in his hands. "And there's so much moving here - all around us!" He peers in one direction and then another. "Can barely see a thing though from down here."
"Then we should stay together," Azarval says as Pelka returns from the scouting attempt. "Those iwth lore of the jungle and of nature should take the lead to keep us from going astray or running into a dangerous animal or plant. I'll be next to help fight any dangers we do encounter. Another fighter should be in the rear to act as a guard."
The jungle is quickly thick with undergrowth that ranges from knee-height to chin-height for most of the party, with the shorter of the group sometimes overshadowed by the foliage. The canopy soon becomes so very thick with branches and leaves that the sky is only seen in very, very small bits and pieces -- clearings are virtually non-existant. It's very peaceful and quiet in the jungle, although the word 'steamy' also applies.
Mocharaos is in the lead as she perks up suddenly. "Stop." she says, quickly going to a knee. She pulls a few dried berries from her pack and draws magic to her fingers before a dog, a large mutt appears before her. She looks at it for a moment and points behind where the group was and sends it running in that direction. The Sith'makar suddenly very tense.
Hun'rar eyes Macharaos and draws his sword, he is sweating in the armor but the heat is something he has experienced before. "Trouble?" he asks in a hushed voice as he raises his shield to potential foes.
Braith cocks her head as well, she does grip both of her warhammers after pulling them off, that just all makes her a bit wary.
Pelka freezes in place at the command. He wonders if he should lift off again. His feathers ruffle unconciously. But what if the warning was due to the approach of some terrible lizard attracted by movement? Or even worse one with wings...?
At Mocharaos' sudden stop, Azarval draws his sword and readies his sheild for a combat. "What is it?"
The summoned dog's progress is more visible by the way the undergrowth waves and sways and rustles than by that anyone can see the dog... then, suddenly, there's a LOT more movement out there as two big -somethings- are suddenly rushing through the undergrowth towards the dog! They look like big birds of some kind, but they're running on two legs rather than flying! (PIC: http://f.tqn.com/y/dinosaurs/1/S/x/s/-/-/deinonychusEW.png) Almost at the exact same time, they can be seen leaping up and above the undergrowth, using what wings they do have to guide themselves down onto their prey -- the poor dog, which yelps loudly and is suddenly quiet. The jungle, too, is silent, save for the sounds of the two big birdlike creatures tearing the dog's body apart as they devour it! In fact, they can be seen from where the party is currently standing, thanks to their takedown of the dog via their pouncing attacks flattening the tall grasses in that immediate area... which is only about twenty feet away! They were -close-... and only Mocharao's quick thinking kept the party from being targetted by that leaping assault!
...however, they're -still- close... so close that it's surprising that they haven't spotted the party, yet. Probably, they're just too busy eating dogmeat.
=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- ATTENTION -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-
Elisabeth has dropped a TIMESTOP!
Please +init, then cease all roleplay and actions immediately and wait for
Elisabeth to instruct you further.
For in-combat commands, type: +thelp.
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_.----._/ / RAWR
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GAME: Mocharaos rolls initiative: 3 + 7 = 10
GAME: Braith rolls initiative: 3 + 3 = 6
GAME: Hun'rar rolls initiative: 15 + 1 = 16
GAME: Pelka rolls initiative: 2 + 3 = 5
GAME: Azarval rolls initiative: 8 + 2 = 10
GAME: Elisabeth advances the initiative order.
Round One - Init 16.
It is now Hun'rar's turn! Azarval is next!
GAME: Note Flat-footed on Hun'rar ended.
<OOC> Hun'rar says, "Swift action Arcane Strike" <OOC> Elisabeth says, "y'all have a surprise round on them!" <OOC> Elisabeth says, "I will let you charge in the surprise round, tho." <OOC> Hun'rar says, "Well ok then" <OOC> Hun'rar will power attack as well. GAME: Hun'rar rolls weapon10-1+2: (17)+9+-1+2: 27 <OOC> Elisabeth says, "that's a hit! in a big way! damage?" GAME: Hun'rar rolls 1d10+strength+1+2: (6)+5+1+2+1: 15 <OOC> Elisabeth says, "one's slightly larger than the other... which one were you charging, the big or the not-so-big?" <OOC> Hun'rar says, "Big one."
Hun'rar stomps through the foilage with his heavy boot, sword raised high and burning with a violet fire as he runs steel deep into the creaure. "On me, lets take these creatures down quickly." he intones as he delivers his blow.
The two big 'birds' squawk in surprise as Hun'rar suddenly charges into them. The larger of the two, the one with the more dull-colored feathers, squawks more loudly, painfully, as the blade shears off feathers and actually draws some blood, too!
GAME: Elisabeth advances the initiative order.
Round One - Init 10.
It is now Azarval's turn! Mocharaos is next!
GAME: Note Flat-footed on Azarval ended.
<OOC> Elisabeth says, "Azar. your turn. he's wounded the big one, but it's still up." <OOC> Azarval says, "Can I move to the big one and strike or do I need to charge?" <OOC> Elisabeth says, "you'd need to charge at this point. you have one standard action only, but i'm bending rules to allow that to be enough to charge into melee, if you wish." <OOC> Azarval says, "Okay, charging the big one, then" <OOC> Elisabeth says, "roll it!" GAME: Azarval rolls 1d20 +6: (9)+6: 15 <OOC> Elisabeth says, "that's a hit." GAME: Azarval rolls 1d8+2: (3)+2: 5 <OOC> Elisabeth says, "pose away. :) big bird's still up."
As Hun'rar charges in to attack the larger animal, Azarval is right on his heels. The paladin angles slightly near the end to avoid running directly into Hun'rar, swinging his sword downwards and striking the animal.
GAME: Elisabeth advances the initiative order.
Round One - Init 10.
It is now Mocharaos' turn! Braith is next!
GAME: Note Flat-footed on Mocharaos ended.
<OOC> Mocharaos attacks the smaller one! <OOC> Mocharaos says, "with my sling!" <OOC> Elisabeth says, "roll it! it's not yet in melee, so no mods against you, except range." GAME: Mocharaos rolls weapon4: (1)+4: 5
Mocharaos fumbles around for a few moments, the sound of her puppy becoming a hero striking a nerve for her as she pulls her sling out and quickly twirls it around before letting loose towards the smaller one. She couldn't even hit the broad side of it as the bullet goes off over yonder. She thumps her tail at that, pulling out another bullet as she says "The other one! Get the other one!"
GAME: Elisabeth advances the initiative order.
Round One - Init 6.
It is now Braith's turn! Pelka is next!
<OOC> Braith says, "will rage and charge the smaller one" <OOC> Elisabeth says, "RAWR! :) roll 'em." GAME: Braith RAGES!, gaining +2 to melee attack/damage/Will saves and 6 temporary HP GAME: Braith rolls melee+2+2: (16)+7+2+2: 27 <OOC> Elisabeth says, "that's a solid hit!" GAME: Braith rolls 1d8+4: (5)+4: 9
Braith roars a bit, "Well wasn't expectin to come across something so soon", she growls out in fury and then enters her rage. The fingers of her hands lengthen into claws and the skin of them darkens. She grips the hafts of her warhammers and then charges forward and smacks the smaller one with one of her warhammers, a solid thwacking.
GAME: Elisabeth advances the initiative order.
Round One - Init 5.
It is now Pelka's turn! Hun'rar is next!
GAME: Note Flat-footed on Pelka ended.
<OOC> Pelka will fire his Thunderbelcher at the smaller one. <OOC> Elisabeth says, "it's now in melee. -4 to hit" <OOC> Pelka has precise strike if that helps <OOC> Elisabeth says, "yep. :) no penalty." GAME: Pelka rolls ranged+1+1: (8)+6+1+1: 16 <OOC> Elisabeth says, "hit!" GAME: Pelka rolls 1d12+1: (2)+1: 3 <OOC> Elisabeth says, "also, roll me an Intimidate check with a +4 bonus on it" <OOC> Pelka says, "I think it equates to a rifle." <OOC> Pelka says, "Er, musket" <OOC> Elisabeth says, "yep. big boom. lotsa smoke. lotsa noise." GAME: Pelka rolls intimidate+4: (5)+0+4: 9 GAME: Elisabeth rolls 1d20+2: (5)+2: 7 GAME: Elisabeth rolls 1d20+2: (13)+2: 15
Pelka lifts his thunderbelcher to his shoulder and fires off a quick shot. He
rocks back from the recoil and then stares to see the result of his shot. He has to squint to make sure his eyes aren't playing tricks on him, before turning his attention the remaining bird.
GAME: You roll initiative for big bird: Roll: 3 + Bonus: +6 = Total: 9 GAME: You roll initiative for small bird: Roll: 11 + Bonus: +6 = Total: 17
GAME: NEW ROUND!
Elisabeth advances the initiative order.
Round Two - Init 17.
It is now small bird's turn! Hun'rar is next!
<OOC> Elisabeth says, "Braith... roll me an attack vs the small bird. this is an AoO caused by movement" GAME: Braith rolls melee+2: (7)+7+2: 16 <OOC> Elisabeth says, "you hit, Braith." GAME: Braith rolls 1d8+4: (1)+4: 5
The loud BOOM from Pelka's thunderbelcher makes the smaller of the two bird-things panic. Eyes wide, flapping its too-small-to-fly-with wings quickly, it squawks loudly and turns to flee from the frightening sound! It gets cut by Braith, blood spraying about, but it still scurries away into the undergrowth... just gone!
GAME: Elisabeth advances the initiative order.
Round Two - Init 16.
It is now Hun'rar's turn! Azarval is next!
<OOC> Hun'rar will attack the big bird, Swift action arcane strike and power attack. <OOC> Elisabeth Nods! roll it! GAME: Hun'rar rolls weapon10-1: (13)+9+-1: 21 <OOC> Elisabeth says, "that hits, Hun." GAME: Hun'rar rolls 1d10+strength+2+1+1: (7)+5+2+1+1: 16 <OOC> Elisabeth says, "it's badly wounded, but still up."
Hun'rar continues his relentless onslaught of the large creature, stabing it again with his bastard sword. "Not much more, take it down." he calls on the others.
GAME: Elisabeth advances the initiative order.
Round Two - Init 10.
It is now Azarval's turn! Mocharaos is next!
<OOC> Azarval says, "Okay, attacking the big dino again" <OOC> Elisabeth says, "roll 'em! :)" GAME: Azarval rolls 1d20+4: (13)+4: 17 <OOC> Elisabeth says, "that's a hit. :)" GAME: Azarval rolls 1d8 +2: (2)+2: 4 <OOC> Elisabeth says, "still up, but bleeding!"
Azarval continues fighting alongside Hun'rar. He slashes again at the larger dinosaur, his sword cutting into the creature's side and spilling more blood.
GAME: Elisabeth advances the initiative order.
Round Two - Init 10.
It is now Mocharaos' turn! big bird is next!
From afar, Mocharaos mms, think fire could scare it off? Or need a roll on that? You paged Mocharaos with 'what spell and what you doing with it?' Mocharaos pages: Fire bolt, and shooting it right in front of its face (without trying to hit it), and trying to get it to flee. You paged Mocharaos with 'if you want to make a know/nature check, though... that can be your action, to see if you can try to guess its intent... but that's instead of using your spell.' From afar, Mocharaos mms, will have to risk trying to scare it off then with the spell. Long distance to Mocharaos: Elisabeth nods. pose casting the spell, roll a to-hit roll against AC 5... and then roll me Intimidate with a +4 bonus. You paged Mocharaos with 'remember, -4 to hit on that ranged attack... it's in melee! ;)' From afar, Mocharaos mmms, magic spell... BAB + dex -4? Long distance to Mocharaos: Elisabeth nods. roll it. GAME: Mocharaos rolls bab+dex-4: (20)+1+dex+-4: 17 Mocharaos pages: right across the eyes? You paged Mocharaos with 'you put it right where you wanted! pose away, and roll intimidate with +4.' GAME: Mocharaos rolls intimidate+4: (13)+2+4: 19 GAME: Elisabeth rolls 1d20+2: (16)+2: 18
Mocharaos frowns for a moment as she rolls forward a bit, grabbing up some energy from her hand as a streak of fire shoots right in front of the bird. It goes right in front of the creature's eyes as she yells at the thing. "INTO THE FOREST!"
GAME: Elisabeth advances the initiative order.
Round Two - Init 9.
It is now big bird's turn! Braith is next!
The larger bird, suddenly outnumbered, frightened (but not panicked) by the loud sound, suddenly has a flash of fire right past its face... and it, too, tries to get out of the fight. However, this one doesn't just turn and run, it actually picks its moment. Agility, finesse, and planning go into when it backs away, so that its melee opponents don't get a chance to strike at it... and then, like the other, it's simply -gone- into the undergrowth.
<OOC> Elisabeth says, "it withdraws from melee and flees. combat ends. they're -way- too fast for y'all to chase after" GAME: Braith ends her rage. GAME: Elisabeth removes the timestop. Timestop by Elisabeth has left.
As the larger bird thing flees, Azarval looks around his companions. "Is everyone alright?" He starts stamping on the small spot fires to put them out as he evaluated people. "s anyone in need of healing?"
Pelka lowers his Thunderbelcher and darts his gaze back and forth in the directions he last saw the creatures. "They, ah...they got pretty close." He nods towards the Sith. "They would have gotten even closer if you hadn't warned us." After a moment he puts the weapon away into a compartment on his bandolier that shouldn't be able to fit it. Instead he pulls out an even larger weapon, one that's so bukly and unwieldy he struggles to carry it. Although this doesn't keep him from pointing the deathray at anything that moves.
Mocharaos picks herself up, collecting all her bits and bobs and stuffs them back into her pack of sacks. She heads over to where the fire was, quickly stamping it out with a frown. "So close!" she calls out with a smile towards the others. "We have jerky and vegtables, and we can get on with delivering the message." she smiles to Pelka and says "It's okay, we are not here as hunters, only messengers. They will live to hunt and be hunted another day."
The battle against the predators that were stalking the party through the jungle is over... and the jungle is dead silent, save for the heavy breathing of the people who were just fighting, the soft crackling of a small bush that's been lit on fire from Mocharao's magic, the stamping of feet as the fire is put out, etc. The normal jungle sounds? ... they're -gone-, thanks to sounds of the battle that included the thunderbelcher's explosive retort. Even the buzzing insects, previously droning on and on... they are silent, too.
Hun'rar sheaths his sword "Glad that went over without too much trouble. Anyone hurt by chance? Didn't look like it but this place can be treacherous." he adds with a grin.
<OOC> Elisabeth says, "pose away, for the battle ending and moving on with your mission. btw... anyone with Survival, roll it... (to see if you're staying on course towards the river and village." GAME: Mocharaos rolls Survival: (11)+11: 22 GAME: Braith rolls survival: (7)+6: 13 GAME: Hun'rar rolls survival: (12)+1: 13
Braith shakes her head a bit and then shrugs, her blackend claws turn back into her regular fingers. She still grips her warhammers though as she lets her breathing calm.
The party travels on after their encounter with some of the jungle predators. It takes nearly an hour for the jungle's normal sounds to start to return. By about then, there's the sound of running water from up ahead, also.
<OOC> Elisabeth says, "everyone please roll me Perception." GAME: Mocharaos rolls perception: (14)+9: 23 GAME: Braith rolls perception: (5)+7: 12 GAME: Pelka rolls perception: (4)+17: 21 GAME: Hun'rar rolls perception: (20)+0: 20 GAME: Azarval rolls Perception: (7)+4: 11 You paged (Pelka, Mocharaos, Hun'rar) with 'The jungle's gone quieter than its 'norm', once again. You also see why: there's people, of some sort, moving stealthily through the jungle towards your group. You can't tell quite how many of them there are, but you know that it's a group at least as large as, possibly larger than, your own party. You do spot both stone-tipped and metal-tipped spears, and feathers worn as decoration, every now and then. They're coming, generally, from the north, and they're moving quickly but stealthily... and they clearly know the lay of the land from how they're moving so easily through it.'
Mocharaos pulls out that censer again, more packs of herbs. These ones she picks and stuffs into the censer before lighting it again and letting the smoke start to fill the area. "Come on, we are on the trail if you look towards the signs." signs for Sith'makar to see! "A little bit of smoke to help mask our passage." she says as holds her club and censer and leads once more. "Water is good, lifeblood flowing through the lands..." as she spots something she gives a faint grin and thumps her tail, calling out in Draconic.
Hun'rar stops and draws his sword once more "I hear something..." he says looking about the woods, although its hard to see anything from inside his helmet. "Or rather its too quite... I think something is stalking us. With luck we its the tribe we are seeking."
Mocharaos says in Draconic, "Peace on your nests!"
When the party starts calling out, the people who were spotted in the jungle stop moving... then there's sounds of undergrowth being pushed aside, an obvious 'I'm coming and letting you know I'm coming' sort of approach, as a tall, muscled, and extremely athletic-looking sith-makar male comes towards the party, a spear in his hands. He wears hides of various creatures, and feathers, not unlike those from the bird-things the party fought off earlier in the day, decorate his clothing and weapon.
The sith-makar warrior stands straight and tall, as if invincible, and eyes the party. Turning his gaze to look at Mocharaos, he says, in the draconic tongue, "Why do you bring softskins into our land? Their noise will disrupt hunting here for half a moon." He does say it with a silibance that denotes respect given to a female of unknown station, however.
Pelka points his deathray briefly to the north. He lowers it slowly and then asks in a lowered voice to the nearest party member, "I don't think they like us."
As the Sith-Makar emerges from the jungle, Azarval sheaths his sword to help the feeling of diplomacy Mocharaos is trying to foster. His shield still stands ready for defense, though.
Mocharaos gives a polite bow, in draconic, "I am shaman Mocharaos. I bear my husband's heartstring ashes, and next to them the Icon of shaman Ilas-Julan. I am to deliever this to shaman An-Meik, to request her aid healing one who was injured in the service of the gods. These are my guards on this trek, and we have faced two flightless birds. We defended ourselves and scared them off without killing. We do not take what is rightfully yours." she gives a warm smile, showing the icon.
Hun'rar laughs and removes his helmet "Haha, these are suppose to be tough warriors?" he clears his throat and switches to Draconic "No Blackclaws these I see. I am Hun'rar, Warden of the Great Hunting Dragon, of the Blackclaw tribe with red dragons blood in my veins. We seek words with your shaman." he says in a firm voice, standing tall himself, making sure not to show any weakness before the Sith hunters.
Mocharaos just /eyes/ Hun'rar.
Braith just keeps her mouth shut, she tends to offend people when she doesn't.
The sith-makar warrior listens to Mocharaos, and -just- his eyes turn to look at Hun'rar for a moment, before his head also turns. "You are a soft-skin", he says in heavily accented tradespeak. "You are no dragonkin", he concludes, before turning to face Mocharaos, once again; it's a clear dismissal. In draconic, he says to her, "Though your guards offend, I will take you to meet the cheiftan. He will decide if you can meet our shaman. We will follow. You and yours will follow the river." That said, he turns... and seems to stand there for a second or two longer than necessary, as if daring anyone to strike at him while his back is turned... then goes of into the underbrush, this time with hardly any sound of his passage. He's -good- at moving through the jungle, this one.
Mocharaos gives a faint smile, in Draconic, "The Hunter guide and protect you, and bring bountiful hunting." thumping her tail a few times happily before looking to Hun'rar again. She casts eyedaggers at him before she says in tradespeak. "They will be protecting us, and we are to walk down the river banks to the village. Remember, be polite, we are asking for help and assistance, not trying to pick fights." and with that, she moves to do just that, leading the way, censer and club.
Braith nods, yep better to just keep her mouth shut for the time being, much safer that way, though she moves to follow Mocharaos.
Azarval watches the exchange, sighing at Hun'rar's apparent boast to the Sith-Makar. Someday, he really needs to learn Draconic... But, as things end peacefully, he takes up position near Mocharaos, since she seemed to be somewhat respected by the other Sith and not dismissed. "Anything of note that was spoken of in your tounge?" he asks her. "How are we presenting ourselves to the shaman or the other Sith in the jungle?"
Hun'rar looks to Macharaos "They are warrior caste are they not? Surely it would do us more harm than good to appear meak before them. If they doubt me as a warrior I will fight them one on one with my bare hands. They should respect strength more than anything else." he says sheathing his sword and slinging his shield over a shoulder.
Pelka leans closer to Hun'rar and murmurs, "Perhaps it would be best not to fight them at all - we're here for their help in healing. Remember the stricken scout back in Alexandria," he continues.
Mocharaos makes her way along the river, stopping here and there to collect pieces of wood. Sticks and piece of dry wood until she has a firm collection of pieces in her arms. To Azarval, "We our visiting thier home, asking for aid, and meeting the chieftan first. The proper way to speak to them to start off with is 'Peace on your nests'. You all are my guards in the forest here, as is fitting a traveling /female/ shaman."
Before long, the river guides the party right up to the wooden pallisades of a village that spans both sides of the river. It is well-camoflagued, too -- it wasn't obvious that it -was- the village until the party was well within bowshot of the walls.
The young warrior seemingly appears out of the undergrowth, and walks to the riverbank... where a rope-bridge goes out over the water and around the wooden pallisade that extends into the river itself. Pausing at the foot of that bridge, he turns to say, again in draconic, "The chieftan will see you at the central fire. You will state your reasons to him and he will decide what is to be done", directing his words to Mocharaos. "If your softskins must also speak, it would be wise for them to show respect due to true dragonkin such as our chief." That said, he walks onto the bridge and around, and into the village.
Mocharaos gives a nod, and bows politely to the warrior, "Peace on your nest." she says in draconic. Looking to the others, she offers them each a piece of wood. "There is a central fire. After you offer them well wishes of peace on nests, set your wood on the fire. This is a big deal, how you do it can show your proper respect. If you are not used to our culture, please simply remain respectfully quiet." waiting for the others to take what she offers before heading in.
Azarval takes the offered wood from Mocharaos, nodding in understanding. As they progress to the village, he quietly practices the phrase 'Peace on your nest', in Draconic as he heard Mocharaos say it. Let it not be said that a paladin of Daeus failed to observe proper custom and diplomacy!
Hun'rar still walks with his head high "I will keep to myself if it helps but I don't know about this tribe. I would expect them to respect strength and expect strength from anyone worth their time." he murmers but none the less he keeps quite to himself.
Pelka takes a piece of wood but then after considering he holds it at his side almost out of sight. "At least there's no roof," he murmurs. Then shoots a look at their resident experts on Sith-Makar culture. "They don't have roofs, do they?"
The pallisades form around a large semi-circular area on this side of the river, which is clearly the living area for this tribe of sith-makar, with small thatch-roofed buildings along the perimeter... but, just as obviously, with some (if not most) of the dwelling spaces underground. There is a large firepit, in which burns a fire (of course), dead in the center of the open area. There are sith-makar, including the warrior from before, gathered around the firepit... but one stands out. He's slightly taller than any of the others, and his scales, while still greenish, bear hints of red to them, too. He also has horns coming out of his head... and wings sprouting from his back, giving him a -very- dragonlike appearance. He wears a skirt made of hide, decorated with bones and feathers... and wields a spear long enough to be called a lance, which is made entirely of a silvery-blue metal -- adamantine. A collar made of feathers, bones, and even what look to be large scales, is worn around his neck... but his chest and arms are bare, displaying an extremely muscular, powerful-looking physique. He says nothing, although the other sith-makar part to make room for the party to come forward towards the chief; he just stands there with his spear in one hand... and watches.
<OOC> Elisabeth says, "if you want, you may roll perception (+2 bonus if you have knowledge/nature)" <OOC> Elisabeth says, "not an extremely important thing, but a detail you might notice, nonetheless." GAME: Mocharaos rolls perception+2: (2)+9+2: 13 GAME: Pelka rolls perception: (11)+17: 28 GAME: Azarval rolls Perception: (10)+4: 14 You paged Pelka with 'The big guy's coloring... you take away the horns and the wings... and maybe two or three decades of age... and you've got the warrior who guided y'all in. They're -obviously- father and son.'
Mocharaos just blinks a little at Hun'rar. Her own scales a shade of blue as she walks with a measured purpose towards the fire. As she gets near to it, she says "Peace on your nests. May the Hunter watch over your tribe, protect them and bring great bounties. I am shaman Mocharaos, I carry the heartstring ash of my husband and seek my stolen children." she lays the wood into the fire, on top near the center. She dosn't fear the flames as she does so, before pulling her hand back (hot hot!). In draconic, "I have been called to speak to shaman An-Meik, and deliver to her the icon of shaman Ilas-Julan. We seek her aid in healing a warrior of the gods, with injuries that resist all attempts to heal and cure."
The sith-makar chief eyes Mocharaos, the ridges over his eyes rising slightly for a moment when she calls herself a shaman. He still says nothing, his eyes moving away from the little sith-makar woman and to the others who came with her, at which point they narrow, ever-so-slightly.
Azarval follows Mocharaos as she lays her sticks in the fire. Once she steps aside, he moves forward, trying to copy her movements and her pronounciation of 'peace on your nests' before adding his sticks like she did. He then bows respectully to the chieftan and moves to stand next to Mocharaos.
Pelka follows suit - only once he's added his fire and repeated the ritual greeting he takes up a spot on Macharaos' other side. His deathray, which he's held cradled in his arms or balanced over a shoulder all this time, he now plants on the ground and rests folded hands over the top.
The chief watches as others feed the fire, and actually grunts softly when Azarval at least tries to say the right words, even though it's obvious, to anyone who actually speaks the dragon's tongue, that he really doesn't know what he's saying. He also takes note, clearly, of the weapon Pelka sets down and rests his arms upon.
"She who calls herself a shaman", says the sith-makar chief in a deep voice, as he turns his gaze back to Mocharaos. "I am Drac Nees'r-Ei, and these are my people", he says, lifting the spear to gesture with it in a way that includes the entire village. "What you ask, I am hesitant to give, for our shaman is not only of great importance to my people, but also to me, personally. You are asking me to expose my mate to outsiders, to softskins, to those who travel with softskins. If you wish me to do this, you must prove yourself worthy of our trust. You and yours must perform a service to my people."
<OOC> Hun'rar says, "'Sorry guys, getting late for me. Thanks for running Elisa! :D" Hun'rar has disconnected.
Mocharaos gives a nod, in Draconic, "It is a favor we ask without having the right." she pauses for a moment and says "And I know how important the mate is to your tribe, the younglings." she pauses and pulls the vial of ash from around her neck, offering it to the chieftan. "As we perform this service, please watch over the ashs of my husband, I wish that my children will some day know of his love. What would you have us do?"
Pelka nods in understanding. It's good to see that even in this remote land some things are the same. Doing a service in the name of getting something that needed for another quest - a time honored tradition for members of the Explorer's Guild.
Azarval stands quietly and watches the exchange although he doesn't understand what is being said. Rather, he waits patiently for Mocharaos to translate for the Draconic-impared members of the party, if she choses to.
The chief says, this time in the trade tongue for all to understand (and he speaks it quite well), "There is a pack of predators, new to the area, who are claiming some of our hunting grounds as their own. Their presence threatens to not only steal our hunts, but also threatens my hunters. I ask of you, to prove yourselves to me, to kill them or drive them away."
That's when the young warrior who brought you all into the village steps forward and says, in draconic, "No! I and my hunters can drive them out! We do NOT need the help of softskins!", all but barking the words into the chief's face.
The chief looks at the young warrior, smiling. "Silm-Ei... do you challenge my decision, my right to lead our people?", he says, replying in the draconic language... and the younger warrior is quiet... then lowers his eyes and backs away. "I do not challenge....", he says, going back to stand where he'd previously been.
With that handled, the chief looks back to the party to await their reply to his request.
Mocharaos looks to the others, "Would be group of strong guards be willing to lend a hand? It is a fair request for what we ask." she says. "I would say yes, but, I cannot force you."
<OOC> Elisabeth notes, for the record, from this point forward, I will be story-boarding Hun'rar and his actions, because the player was forced by RL to log out of the game. From this point forward, too, I am considering him to no longer be death-consented.
<GM EMIT> Hun'rar readily agrees, eager to show his strength.
<OOC> Mocharaos nodnod. <OOC> Elisabeth says, "pose away, y'all."
Azarval steps forward wihtout needing the prodding from Mocharaos. He bows to the chieftain and says, "I am Azarval of Daeus. I shall assist your tribe in this task. My honor directs me to aid those in need and give protection to those in danger."
Pelka nods quickly. He hefts his deathray and sets it over his shoulder again. "This seems fitting somehow. We had to fight off a swarm of crab-monsters to save that scout. Now we'll drive off these other predators to cure him."
The chieftan Drac Nees'r-Ei says, "A servant of the Platinum Dragon? The young shaman apparently -has- put some thought into her choice of companions. Go. Prove yourselves worthy... or prove yourselves NOT worthy. Only the worthy will speak with An-Meik." With that, he turns his back on the party to walk away.
The rest of the sith-makar in the area simply wait, and watch, while the young warrior, Silm-Ei, turns to usher them out of the village area.
Braith has disconnected. <OOC> Elisabeth notes, for the record, from this point forward, I will be story-boarding Braith and hers actions, because the player has idled out of the game. From this point forward, too, I am considering her to no longer be death-consented.
Mocharaos gives a nod, as she gently smiles and helps lead the group out towards the area where these predators are supposed to be! The Sith'makar thumping her tail happily as she walks, eager to help the tribe.
Silm-Ei gives directions to the last place the pack of predators was seen... and leaves the party to their own devices, perhaps an hour's walk out of the village. It's growing darker, as night is starting to fall over the jungle. The party has a choice to make... press on and try to find them before night fully falls, or make camp and wait until the morning comes, so they'll have plenty of daylight in which to search.
Azarval bows again to the chieftan, then goes to join Mocharaos, falling in step with her and looking the part of her guard, or trying to. "After we return to Alexandria City," he says quietly to her, "I would be most interested in learning the Draconic language, if you would be interested in teaching it or could lead me to a teacher."
Mocharaos looks to Azarval, and says "Come spend more time among us Sith'Makar, we'll all help." she says, booping Azarval lightly. "Boop!" before she looks around, "It's getting dark, I can see just fine, but..." she looks at you all. "Not sure the same goes for you."
Pelka looks up longingly at the sky. "If we get started we might be able to find them before it gets too dark. Would predators be more vunlerable at night?" He looks between the various party members who seem more attuned to the outdoors.
Azarval chuckles, perhaps at the boop. But he replies, "I can see just fine in the darkness, as well."
Mocharaos shakes her head. "If they are out at night, then they would not be at a disadvantage. And if not, they are likely hiding." she says. "I will be fine if we push on then."
Mocharaos pauses a moment, pulling a strip of cloth from her pack and pulling magic into her hands before casting the spell 'Light' on the cloth and offering it to Pelka. "Wrap this around your head, and let there be light in your darkness."
Pelka ties the cloth around his head. He bobs his head in gratitude and then hefts his deathray. "I'll have to remember this," he says. Then he gestures at the bridge leading out. "So where do we start?"
<GM EMIT> Both Hun'rar and Braith, with their own light sources, bring up the rear of the party as you all press on into the jungle at night.
<OOC> Elisabeth says, "roll knowledge/nature" GAME: Mocharaos rolls knowledge/nature: (15)+7: 22 <OOC> Elisabeth says, "okay. you've an idea what to look for, yes. now roll survival to try and find it." GAME: Mocharaos rolls survival: (2)+11: 13
Mocharaos makes a call out to Gilead, the Hunter. "Hunter, watch us, guide us, and let us see the trails of our quarry. We are no longer travelers among Your forests, but hunters, sanctioned by the rightful owners of this land. Help us bring your blessings to your people." She looks around for a few moments before she smiles. "We need to start looking for the territory of these predators. Look for bits on trees, crushed plants, corpses, bones. Things to mark a place as belonging to them." as she helps lead the group in that direction.
GAME: Elisabeth rolls 1d20+10: (20)+10: 30 to Elisabeth GAME: Elisabeth rolls 1d20+10: (20)+10: 30 to Elisabeth <OOC> Elisabeth says, "okay... so y'all start looking... please roll me Perception checks." GAME: Mocharaos rolls perception: (18)+9: 27 GAME: Azarval rolls perception: (17)+4: 21 GAME: Pelka rolls perception: (7)+17: 24
The party moves along, looking for the signs that Mocharaos has identified. An hour later, it is pitch dark, except for the light sources carried by the party... and no one's seen a thing that could mark the presence of these predators.
Until suddenly, they're all over you!
<OOC> Elisabeth says, "the party has been surprised!" =-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- ATTENTION -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- Elisabeth has dropped a TIMESTOP! Please +init, then cease all roleplay and actions immediately and wait for Elisabeth to instruct you further. For in-combat commands, type: +thelp. -=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=-
GAME: Pelka rolls initiative: 13 + 3 = 16 GAME: Mocharaos rolls initiative: 16 + 7 = 23 GAME: Azarval rolls initiative: 17 + 2 = 19 GAME: You roll initiative for liz1: Roll: 5 + Bonus: +6 = Total: 11 GAME: You roll initiative for liz2: Roll: 20 + Bonus: +6 = Total: 26 GAME: You roll initiative for liz3: Roll: 2 + Bonus: +6 = Total: 8 GAME: You roll initiative for liz4: Roll: 6 + Bonus: +6 = Total: 12 GAME: You roll initiative for liz5: Roll: 16 + Bonus: +6 = Total: 22 GAME: You roll initiative for liz6: Roll: 13 + Bonus: +6 = Total: 19
Out of the darkness, six small, furry lizard-like things are suddenly slashing out of the undergrowth and biting at everyone's legs!
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/c/c4/Compsognathus_BW.jpg)
<GM EMIT> To the rear of the party, more of the critters harry Huh'rar and Braith, while the rest attack the three in the lead.
<OOC> Elisabeth says, "two attacks on each, in alphabetical order: Azar, Mocha, Pelka." <OOC> Elisabeth says, "against your flat-footed AC." GAME: Elisabeth rolls 1d20+1: (17)+1: 18 GAME: Elisabeth rolls 1d20+1: (6)+1: 7 GAME: Elisabeth rolls 1d20+1: (17)+1: 18 GAME: Elisabeth rolls 1d20+1: (8)+1: 9 GAME: Elisabeth rolls 1d20+1: (19)+1: 20 GAME: Elisabeth rolls 1d20+1: (4)+1: 5 <OOC> Mocharaos says, "1 hit on me" GAME: Elisabeth rolls 1d3-1: (1)+-1: 0 <OOC> Elisabeth says, "you take... zero damage.. but it -did- bite you on the leg! roll a fort save." GAME: Mocharaos rolls fort: (15)+5: 20 <OOC> Azarval says, "One hit on me" GAME: Elisabeth rolls 1d3-1: (1)+-1: 0 <OOC> Elisabeth says, "same for you. bite, no damage... but roll a fort save." GAME: Azarval rolls Fortitude: (10)+8: 18 <OOC> Elisabeth says, "pelka you gets hit" GAME: Elisabeth rolls 1d3-1: (1)+-1: 0 <OOC> Elisabeth says, "again, zero damage.. but a bite nonetheless. Pelka needs to make a fort save."
GAME: Pelka rolls fort: (3)+7: 10 GAME: Elisabeth rolls 1d2: (2): 2 GAME: You damaged Pelka's Strength for 2 points. 2 total damage.
GAME: Elisabeth advances the initiative order.
Round One - Init 26.
It is now liz2's turn! Mocharaos is next!
One of the lizards scrabbling at Azarval's legs makes coughing, barking sorts of sounds... and then makes a break for it, running away!
GAME: Elisabeth advances the initiative order.
Round One - Init 23.
It is now Mocharaos' turn! liz5 is next!
GAME: Note Flat-footed on Mocharaos ended.
<OOC> Mocharaos wants to grab her light shield, and then bonk Liz3 <OOC> Elisabeth says, "roll it!" GAME: Mocharaos rolls weapon3: (6)+0: 6 <OOC> Elisabeth says, "miss."
Mocharaos gives a faint 'Ow!' at the nip she gets! "Hey!" she calls out, grabbing at her shield so she can use her club to give the one that bit her a firm bonking! She gives a quick downward strike, only to hit the ground beside it!
GAME: Elisabeth advances the initiative order.
Round One - Init 22.
It is now liz5's turn! liz6 is next!
GAME: Elisabeth advances the initiative order.
Round One - Init 19.
It is now liz6's turn! Azarval is next!
Two more of the little lizard things, the two that nipped at Pelka, dart away and out of the fight!
GAME: Elisabeth advances the initiative order.
Round One - Init 19.
It is now Azarval's turn! Pelka is next!
GAME: Note Flat-footed on Azarval ended.
<OOC> Azarval says, "Slashing at one of the ankle-biters with my sword" GAME: Azarval rolls 1d20 +6: (11)+6: 17 <OOC> Elisabeth says, "and ... that hits!" GAME: Azarval rolls 1d8+2: (3)+2: 5 <OOC> Elisabeth says, "you hurt it, getting a yelp of pain from it!"
One of the lizards bites at Azarval's leg, but the leather of his breeches akes away the force of the creature's bite, mearly scratching the skin instead of really hurting the paladin. He kicks the lizard away, then swings at it with his sword, connecting and causing the beast to cry out in pain.
GAME: Elisabeth advances the initiative order.
Round One - Init 16.
It is now Pelka's turn! liz4 is next!
GAME: Note Flat-footed on Pelka ended.
<OOC> Pelka will use Titan fists and attack twice
<OOC> Elisabeth says, "there are three you can attack, Pelka... one of the ones on Azar, and the two on Mocha." <OOC> Pelka says, "The ones on Mocharaos" GAME: Pelka rolls melee: (20)+5: 25 GAME: Pelka rolls melee: (20)+5: 25 <OOC> Elisabeth says, "two threats..." GAME: Pelka rolls melee: (9)+5: 14 GAME: Pelka rolls melee: (11)+5: 16 <OOC> Elisabeth says, "...second is a crit." GAME: Pelka rolls 1d8+3: (1)+3: 4 GAME: Pelka rolls 2d8+6: (10)+6: 16 <OOC> Elisabeth says, "you swat one, but it keeps moving. the other is DED."
Pelka shudders as the lizards attacks. The ones who attacked him get away but he moves to protect Mocharaos. He manages to crush one with his armored fists, than bashes the other lightly. "What -are- these things?" he shrieks.
GAME: Elisabeth advances the initiative order.
Round One - Init 11.
It is now liz1's turn! liz3 is next!
GAME: Elisabeth advances the initiative order.
Round One - Init 8.
It is now liz3's turn! liz2 is next!
The remaining two lizards, both wounded, withdraw from the fight and dart off into the darkness.
<GM EMIT> At the rear, the lizards harassing Huh'rar and Braith also vanish back into the dark and undergrowth.
GAME: NEW ROUND!
Elisabeth advances the initiative order.
Round Two - Init 26.
It is now liz2's turn! Mocharaos is next!
<OOC> Elisabeth says, "pelka, roll a fort save." GAME: Pelka rolls fort: (9)+7: 16
GAME: Elisabeth rolls 1d20+10: (13)+10: 23
GAME: Elisabeth advances the initiative order.
Round Two - Init 23.
It is now Mocharaos' turn! liz5 is next!
<OOC> Mocharaos chases them then! Into the undergrowth! <OOC> Elisabeth says, "roll perception." GAME: Mocharaos rolls perception: (16)+9: 25 <OOC> Mocharaos also has woodland stride, can move without interuption through underbrush and the like You paged Mocharaos with 'you -do- spot them... they're skittering around, circling the party... as if waiting and watching and figuring out who to go for next. you can get to one and attack if you want to.' You paged Mocharaos with 'pose away.'
Mocharaos dives into the underbrush, and is back a few moments later! "They're surrounding us! Look for a clear area and pull in tight!" she calls out, her club at the ready.
GAME: Elisabeth advances the initiative order.
Round Two - Init 22.
It is now liz5's turn! liz6 is next!
GAME: Elisabeth advances the initiative order.
Round Two - Init 19.
It is now liz6's turn! Azarval is next!
The lizards keep moving, out in the darkness, through the undergrowth. No one can spot them, even with Mocharaos describing what they're doing. The little things still haven't made any new move to attack.
GAME: Elisabeth advances the initiative order.
Round Two - Init 19.
It is now Azarval's turn! Pelka is next!
<OOC> Azarval says, "Is there one I can attack?"
<OOC> Elisabeth says, "you can't see them."
<OOC> Elisabeth says, "you could attack blindly into nearby undergrowth if you want to."
<OOC> Elisabeth says, "or whatever else you want to do."
<OOC> Azarval says, "Hmmmm....can I see a clear area neaby, like Mocha says?"
<OOC> Elisabeth says, "not immediately. you'd have to spend your action on a perception check to try and spot such a place nearby."
<OOC> Azarval says, "I'll do that then"
GAME: Azarval rolls Perception: (4)+4: 8
<OOC> Elisabeth says, "nope. :("
GAME: Elisabeth advances the initiative order.
Round Two - Init 16.
It is now Pelka's turn! liz1 is next!
<OOC> Pelka will cast Shield on myself!
GAME: Pelka casts Shield. Caster Level: 5 DC: 15
GAME: liz2's initiative total changed to 8
GAME: liz5's initiative total changed to 8
GAME: liz1's initiative total changed to 8
GAME: liz6's initiative total changed to 8
===================== Current Initiative Order - Round 2 =====================
---Init--Name------------AOO-Notes--------------------------------------------
23 Mocharaos 1
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
19 Azarval 1
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
>> 16 Pelka 1 <<
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
8 Liz6 1
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
8 Liz5 1
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
8 Liz3 1
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
8 Liz2 1
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
8 Liz1 1
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
==============================================================================
GAME: Elisabeth advances the initiative order.
Round Two - Init 8.
It is now liz6's turn! liz5 is next!
GAME: Elisabeth advances the initiative order.
Round Two - Init 8.
It is now liz5's turn! liz3 is next!
GAME: Elisabeth advances the initiative order.
Round Two - Init 8.
It is now liz3's turn! liz2 is next!
GAME: Elisabeth advances the initiative order.
Round Two - Init 8.
It is now liz2's turn! liz1 is next!
GAME: Elisabeth advances the initiative order.
Round Two - Init 8.
It is now liz1's turn! Mocharaos is next!
Out in the darkness, coughing/barking sounds are heard... and, suddenly, all the little critters are bursting out of the undergrowth straight at Azarval and Mocharaos!
<GM EMIT> A few of the pack peel off the main group to continue to harry Hun'rar and Braith!
<OOC> Elisabeth says, "each of you can make a single AoO as they come in."
GAME: Mocharaos rolls weapon3: (10)+0: 10
<OOC> Elisabeth says, "mocha misses."
GAME: Pelka rolls melee: (7)+5: 12
<OOC> Elisabeth says, "Pelka misses."
GAME: Azarval rolls 1d20+4: (4)+4: 8
<OOC> Elisabeth says, "and so did Azar... :("
<OOC> Elisabeth says, "two attacks on Azar." GAME: Elisabeth rolls 1d20+1: (3)+1: 4 GAME: Elisabeth rolls 1d20+1: (11)+1: 12 <OOC> Elisabeth says, "three on Mocha" GAME: Elisabeth rolls 1d20+1: (12)+1: 13 GAME: Elisabeth rolls 1d20+1: (11)+1: 12 GAME: Elisabeth rolls 1d20+1: (19)+1: 20 <OOC> Elisabeth says, "Mocha got hit once" GAME: Elisabeth rolls 1d3-1: (1)+-1: 0 <OOC> Elisabeth says, "no damage. fort save needed, tho." GAME: Mocharaos rolls fort: (3)+5: 8 GAME: Elisabeth rolls 1d2: (1): 1 GAME: You damaged Mocharaos's Strength for 1 points. 1 total damage.
<GM EMIT> Hun'rar and Braith have their hands full with a handful of the little lizards, doing their best to keep from being overrun!
GAME: NEW ROUND!
Elisabeth advances the initiative order.
Round Three - Init 23.
It is now Mocharaos' turn! Azarval is next!
<OOC> Elisabeth says, "they're all, basically, in your square and Azar's, too. they're Tiny... they actually enter your square to attack you, which is why you got AoO's." <OOC> Mocharaos says, "how many do you think I could get?" <OOC> Elisabeth says, "well... you'd be hitting yourself to hit the three on you... and you'd be hitting Azar to hit the two on him..." <OOC> Mocharaos just burns the three on her. <OOC> Elisabeth says, "roll the damage." GAME: Mocharaos rolls 2d4: (7): 7 GAME: Mocharaos casts Burning Hands. Caster Level: 2 DC: -86 GAME: Elisabeth rolls 1d20+4: (5)+4: 9 GAME: Elisabeth rolls 1d20+4: (2)+4: 6 GAME: Elisabeth rolls 1d20+4: (4)+4: 8 <OOC> Elisabeth Thinks they all fail even with the oddity in the spellcasting code... you -have- to take full hurt, tho... you intentionally sprayed yourself down to hit them. but, you burned three of them to the ground." GAME: You damaged Mocharaos for 7 points. 9 HP remaining.
Mocharaos is beset on all sides by the little buggers, being nipped again and again before her inhibitions melt away and she lets forth the destructive power of fire. The druid burning herself rather bad as well along her legs as she cries out! But, she is saved for the moment, even if tears spring quickly to her eyes.
GAME: Elisabeth advances the initiative order.
Round Three - Init 19.
It is now Azarval's turn! Pelka is next!
<OOC> Azarval says, "Anything I can slash at?"
<OOC> Elisabeth says, "there are two swarming about your feet."
<OOC> Azarval says, "Stabby stabby"
<OOC> Elisabeth says, "roll it!"
GAME: Azarval rolls 1d20+6: (7)+6: 13
<OOC> Elisabeth says, "sadly, that's a miss. :("
As the smell of roast lizard fills the area, Azarval starts stabbing with his longsword at the ones milling around his feet. Their quickness, however, allow them to evade his stabs.
GAME: Elisabeth advances the initiative order.
Round Three - Init 16.
It is now Pelka's turn! liz6 is next!
<OOC> Pelka will cast CLW on Mocha GAME: Pelka casts Cure Light Wounds. Caster Level: 5 DC: 15 GAME: Pelka rolls 1d8+5: (4)+5: 9 GAME: You damaged Mocharaos for -9 points. 16 HP remaining.
Pelka flinches back out of reflex as flames burst forth. He notes the way Mocharaos' spell burns her as well and produces a patch which he attaches on the worst of the burns. "Don't cry," he chirps. "It's us or them!"
<OOC> Elisabeth says, "Azarval may make an AoO!" GAME: Azarval rolls 1d20+6: (11)+6: 17 <OOC> Elisabeth says, "damage, Az?" GAME: Azarval rolls 1d8+2: (8)+2: 10 <OOC> Elisabeth says, "you take down one of them!"
Suddenly, one of the lizards tries to break away, no doubt to escape the firey fate of it's packmates. Azarval stabs out and skewers his target, running it through dead center with his sword. The lizard briefly struggles, then goes still.
The last of the main group of these little things, bleeding from a cut across its ribs, darts off into the darkness... and never comes back. The little bunch of them that Hun'rar and Braith were dealing with is also badly broken, with only one or two of them managing to flee into the night. If this was the pack of predators the sith-makar mentioned, they're definitely broken, with at least 8 or 10 out of perhaps a dozen of them down for the count, dead or dying.
GAME: Elisabeth removes the timestop. Timestop by Elisabeth has left.
Mocharaos uses her club and fixes the dying problem. After that, she starts collecting the bodies as she can, stuffing them in one of her sacks to hold in her hands. She wipes her tears as she feels that healing soothing away the pain as she says "Thanks."
The party shows up at the sith-makar village the next day, with the dead bodies of the little lizard things as proof that the pack of critters has been dealt with.
The chief seems satisfied, and makes a gesture with one hand. From one of the nearby dwellings comes a lovely sith-makar woman wearing only enough clothing for simple modesty. Around her neck is a leather thong with a wooden disc hanging from it, a star carved out of the middle of the disc. "An-Meik... these have come to speak with you", says the chief, gesturing at you.
"You have won the right from my mate to speak with me. Speak", says the sith-makar woman. The disdain is clear in her tone of voice -- she doesn't like you, any of you. From the way she looked daggers at Mocharaos, she probably likes her -least- of all of you.
<OOC> Elisabeth says, "they're speaking in the trade tongue, so everyone can understand."
<OOC> Elisabeth says, "everyone may roll perception (+2 if you have know/nature) ... and we're almost done, now." GAME: Azarval rolls perception: (20)+4: 24 GAME: Mocharaos rolls perception+2: (7)+9+2: 18 GAME: Pelka rolls perception: (19)+17: 36 You paged Azarval with 'her coloring... her markings... they're VERY much like those of Ilas-Julan... she could very well be his -mother-.' You paged Mocharaos with 'her coloring... her markings... they're VERY much like those of Ilas-Julan... she could very well be his -mother-.' You paged Pelka with 'this sith-makar woman, from her coloration, her markings, the shape of her face... this is, without a doubt, Ilas-Julan's -mother-.' furthermore, the holy symbol she wears? it's identical to the one Ilas-Julan gave you all back before you left through the portal.'
Mocharaos gives a little nod, before she says "Peace on your nests, shaman. I come bearing a request for aid from shaman Ilas-Julan." she offers his Icon to her, before saying "He seeks help from his... tribe...healing a warrior of the gods, wounds that do not respond to healing, infection that resists cleansing. Important enough that he could not come himself."
Pelka stares at the newest arrival for a long time, then adds in a small voice, "Not a hunter, a scout. He was exploring the tunnels beneath our city when he was injured."
An-Meik clearly isn't really interested in what's being said... until she sees the symbol of The Evening Star, Telmentar, held out to her -- a perfect match for the one she, herself, wears. Reaching out to take it, she says, "There is no doubt that my son sent you. If he went to this trouble to seek my aid, I must give it." She then pulls a bracelet from her wrist, from which hangs a single quartzlike crystal, carved into the shape of a star... and holds it out to Mocharaos. "Take him this. Tell him, and be clear about it, that it is a gift for him and him alone and that it is his and only his to use. Take it to him, and the aid he needs will arrive", she says, then turns her back on everyone and simply walks away.
Mocharaos gives a polite bow. "Peace on your nests, and bountiful hunting." she says simply, before she turns and walks back towards where the portal would be.
The chief sends his hunters to escort the party back MOST of the way, not all the way, to the fortress of the portal. The trip back is, therefore, uneventful.
After the crystal is given, Azarval bows to the shaman and the chieftan in turn. "Peace be upon your nests. Thank you for your aid. I vow, as a knight of the Platinum Dragon, I will see this crystal safely to Ilas-Julan." And as the escorts arrive, Azarval stands protectively next to Mocharaos to live up to his vow and guard the bearer along the way to the portal back.
Mocharaos returns to Ilas-Julan and offers him the crystal, repeating word for word what the mother had told her. It was a tribal thing, something that she was all happy to have helped out with.
The party, in due course, finds itself back in Alexandria, at the temple of Althea, with Hearthguard Ilas-Julan... who looks a bit worried that the party, and JUST the party, returned.
His face lights up with relief the moment he sees the bracelet with the crystal on it. "Please, do stand back", he says... then he puts the bracelet around his wrist, lightly pinches the crystal between his fingers, and says, "An-Meik". There is a flash of light, and An-Meik herself is simply standing there. "Hello again, Little One", she says to Ilas-Julan, in the draconic tongue. "You've gone to much trouble to ask for my help. Tell me... what is the problem?"
His scales darkening somewhat at the form of address An-Meik used for him, Ilas-Julan begins explaining as he guides his mother to where the Inquisition scout is still suffering.