Three Worlds: Age of Heroes (in-character)

[Zaydos]

Welcome to the Age of Heroes (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?t=163269)

You are in the village of Torm. A small village in Koth like many others, due to the dangerous animals and monsters that can be found in the woods outside of town the farms stretch slowly and rely on the assistance of magic from the priesthood of the Elder God of Power to grow sufficient food. The town market is a small, and mostly dilapidated affair, even the town’s ruling baronet’s keep is a small affair dwarfed by the temple to the god of power that rises up beside it.
A single inn faces out into the town’s “grand market”, although other seedier establishments probably exist amongst the houses and work places of artisans. Its faded sign, reading “The Sleeping Cat Inn and Tavern”, is still barely legible although the picture that went with it has long since peeled away. From the smells wafting out of the inn it would seem that what coppers the establishment doesn’t spend on appearance are spent on quality food. On one of the inn’s formerly white walls there is a poster. If you read it:

Wanted
(picture of a Toyaman man, hair in a topknot, late 20s or early 30s)
Kotetsu Mikadoshi, stole the ancestral sword, Dragon Feather, belonging to the Outen clan. He is believed to be working with local bandits.
Reward for return of the sword: 1500 pieces of gold and 2 potions of healing.
Reward for Kotetsu Mikadoshi (alive): 500 pieces of gold
Reward for return of the sword and Kotetsu Mikadoshi’s head: 2000 pieces of gold and 4 potions of healing.
Reward for return of the sword and Kotetsu Mikadoshi alive: 2500 pieces of gold and 6 potions of healing.
Rewards can be collected at the baron’s keep.

The shops and stands are mostly simple peasants’ goods, the needs and necessities of a non-adventuring life. A single stand sells low to medium quality weapons and light armor, and at another a man in a grey cloak sells magical trinkets. He is perhaps 45 to 50, a crescent scar running near his right eye. His goods are simple tools, little more than expensive toys for the most part although it is possible that some items of use can be found amongst them.

You are all (with the exception of the dwarf), of course, attracting some level of stares and looks. Most are of course directed towards Rhana and Jakiro unless they take efforts to disguise themselves or hide, but Willowbreeze and Solomon also attract glances do to their abnormalities. Even Elric will attract some due to his warhorse, an uncommon sight in this town. Despite this they are, as of yet, only watching warily; perhaps the sheer number of assembled oddities entering town at roughly the same time is enough to convince them you are working for some local wizard or priest.
A wagon pulling into town pulls everyone’s gaze from you. It is a simple enough covered wagon with the wood painted a bright red and the cover made of some blue-black material. It is being driven by a goblin, dressed in red silk robes and wearing a small metal helmet. If this was not odd enough the wagon is pulled by a pair of hippogriffs. Written on the side of the wagon in ornate, yellow letters is:

Alliandros Broxilby
Provider of Magical Goods.
Scrawled under it in smaller letters and off-centered is:
and magical beasts

So what does everyone want to do?

[Kaosubaloo]

Woden studies the wanted poster. He has little interest in petty theft but is rather intrigued by the sword itself.

It is after considering the bounty and what he knows of the local nobles and their sword that Woden notices the goblin on his wagon. It is only with great hesitance that he does not attack the vermin. Inexplicably not all humans possess a rational hatred of the pests, and the last time he wantonly slayed one, he had nearly ended up in a prison!

Still, he watches the goblin with great suspicion.



[roll0]

I don't have ranks in Knowledge: nobility like I thought, so I went with a basic Int check. I do, however, have knowledge: history, which might cover the sword? i don't know. Here's a separate roll for it anyway.

[roll1]

[Rannil]

The large insectille creature react to the staring crowd with a friendly smile and waves or tips her hat, revealing her antennas. Rhana-Escora still had something resembling a elf, but with six arms and a dark brown skin, made out of chitinous exoskeleton, it was had to see. Most of her skin was covered with clothing, but six arms was had to disguise and she didn't bother. The same problem with her eyes, that looked more like a insect then a elf. she was also undermining the fact she was hiding her antennas by tipping her hat.
On her cape and her tunic was a large symbol of , a smaller one was found on her head and a wooden version was hanging on her belt. It was a Ankh and Star on a Lunar Disk, the symbol of Isis.
As she passed the inn the poster caught her eye. She looked at it and then removed it from the wall. Thinking for a moment she decided to ask about it to the local pubic.

Gather Information: [roll0]

[Zaydos]

While waiting for the others.

Wodan
Around one-thousand five hundred years ago, a nephew of the Toyaman emperor led a rebellion against the emperor. When he besieged the palace and attacked the emperor, the sword Dragon Feather was used by a member of the Outen clan to kill the would-be usurper.

Rhana-Escora
The first man you come to seems rather frightened of you, but he answers quickly enough. "One of those Toyaman knights came by yesterday, went to talk to the baron. This morning the poster was here. I guess he's wanted in Toyama for the theft." He finishes and stands there, probably too scared to risk your wrath by leaving.

[SuperCracker]

A knight in full-plate, atop his warhorse, sidled up to the insectile creature holding the poster. He had seen the poster earlier. The reward was tempting, however, the thought of slaying a band of brigands was more delightful.

"From the poster in your hands, would I be correct to assume you are interested in the job?"

[Rannil]

Rhana-Escora smiles friendly to the man, gives him gold coin for the information and then gesture he may leave.

When the knight speaks she nods. "Yes, it's so tragic for such a nice little village to be bothered by bandits."

[Tacitus]

Jakiro, Scourge of Kittens and Unattended Pies

The dragon is not, in fact, waltzing around in plain view. Being roughly the size of a very small dog or a moderately large cat it is actually fairly easy to escape notice beneath the field of vision of most humans. Though he has no real skill in the art of stealth, this fact alone is no doubt enough to keep him out of the public eye as he darts around. He had recently been stalking around the outside of town in search of scraps to fill his belly (despite still having the trail rations he looted off of some poor adventurer who didn't taste very good at all) but the sudden arrival of so many oddities was simply too interesting to leave be. He stays within sixty feet of the newcomers, but other than that he keeps out of sight as he listens in on their conversation. The goblin apparently did not draw his attention in the slightest.

Hide: [roll0]

[SuperCracker]

When the knight speaks she nods. "Yes, it's so tragic for such a nice little village to be bothered by bandits."

"Indeed, I agree. I was planning to set out in search of this man and his criminal compatriots. I believe if we combined our efforts, we would be a force to be reckoned with."

[Zaydos]

@Tacitus: You are successfully unnoticed by the peasants, although you do catch the goblin glancing at you.

[Kaosubaloo]

While busy staring down the Gob, Woden notes a small-and rather odd looking-group of who he assumes to be adventurers form.

In fact, on second thought, it seems more likely they where already a group and where merely gathering to discuss their next course of action. The sight of adventurers is of course nothing new to him, but they rather stuck out in a town such as this, and that's without even considering oddities like a six-armed...actually, I haven't a clue what that thing is.

Regardless, they are not especially notable to someone well traveled such as Woden. Or rather, they wouldn't be, only that they seem to be gathering around the same poster that he has himself been examining earlier. It's worth repeating that Woden has little interest in petty bandits, but is interested in both the reward and the sword itself.

With these things in mind, he approaches the group; intent on introducing himself and finding if they'd mind a little extra muscle - not that such groups often did.

"Hail, friend!" Woden addresses the human. "I see that you are interested in slaying some bandits and being paid well to do it! As it should happen, I am similarly inclined and would like to know if you'd be interested in pooling our resources to get the job done!"


What time is it, btw?

Also: Low Charisma = pain in the ass. >_<

[Zaydos]

It is between dawn and noon. As it is late spring, this means somewhere between 8 and 9. The day looks like it will shape up to be sunny, although some scattered clouds still hang in the bright blue sky. Birds can be heard singing outside of the inner portion of the town within the area devoted for farming.

[shiverman]

Solomon pulls his cloak up around his head, not because he is ashamed of his heritage, but merely because the frightened and awed gazes and gawking irritates him. He had noticed the poster earlier that day too, and was hoping to go after the bounty as well. Another chance to put his learned style to the test, and a chance to earn another days pay. A group of adventurers had gathered around the poster discussing the bounty, at the same time the strange goblin hippogriff cart pulled into town. Solomon stood up from his seat and approached the group.

"I was interested in pursuing this job as well..." He stated calmly, "Solomon Biahos is my name" He introduced himself to the party.

In the mean while Solomon watched the goblin from the corner of his eye.

[Zaydos]

Note: Editing posts (or previewing them) make the dice roller not function.

[shiverman]

((OoC: wont let me roll in my odl post :S))
sense motive on the goblin: [roll0]

[Zaydos]

To Solomon
The goblin seems honest enough, at least from afar.

[SuperCracker]

To all of the others who have gathered and expressed interest in the job.

"Yes. The more the merrier. I am Sir Elric Darkholme, Knight of Bahamut."

[Rannil]

Rhana smiles to the other people interested. "So nice to see so many here wanting to help. Indeed the more the merrier. My name is Rhana-Escora, Elven Priestess and Crusader of Isis." She takes of her hat and bows gracefully.

[Tacitus]

Jakiro

For the moment the dragon is keeping himself hidden while he waits for this new band of adventurers to head out on the quest they've given themselves. The knight of Bahamut is... somewhat distressing, but Jakiro is a good little dragon who is fairly sure he's never done anything too terrible. Pies don't count as murder, right?

[Zaydos]

The peasants are now, rather conspicuously, not looking at the group. The man Rhana-Escora had been asking questions to is still standing before her trembling and unsure of whether he leaving would be permitted. You can all hear the goblin beginning his sales pitch, "Come to the wagon of Alliandros Broxilby! Within you can find wondrous objects of power, and beasts from other worlds! All reasonably priced!"
It seems unlikely he will find much business in such a small town.

To Jakiro
From your hiding place between their legs you can hear the peasants whispering. They are unsure what to think of this strange band, and for the most part assume they are in the employ of the priesthood and therefore something not to be messed with. There are also a few comments about the goblin, and how the town guard should run him off for bringing dangerous creatures into town. The goblin himself is still watching you, with only an occasional flicker of his eye towards the group, as he starts his pitch.

[Rannil]

Rhana-Escora looked at the poor man. "Still here? Want a prayer of Isis?" Without waiting for answer she lay one of her hands on his head and mumbled a short blessing.
Afterward she looks at the goblin and says to the rest of the group. "Well I am in for the bandit hunting, I am curious what this goblin offers. You know, 'beast from other worlds' doesn't sound safe or something that would be bought in a small town village." She frowns. "Owh well, give me a minute or follow me if you like." She says welcoming and then steps trough the crowd towards the goblin.

[SuperCracker]

"Indulge your curiosity, Rhana, but I doubt this goblin has the exact type of companion I seek."

Nonetheless, Sir Elric, still atop his horse, rode over to the goblin with his new Crusading cohort, and the others if they chose to come.

"Mister Broxilby. My friend here would like to inquire about what you offer. Surely, a seasoned merchant such as yourself has many fine things for humble church servants such as ourselves."

(Rolling diplomacy to try and make him favorable to us.)

[roll0]

[shiverman]

"It is nice to meet you all" Solomon stated quietly after everyone introduced themselves. His raised his eyebrow slightly at the abnormally pale human and the... elf? But such things were not uncommon in this strange land.


"Well I am in for the bandit hunting, I am curious what this goblin offers. You know, 'beast from other worlds' doesn't sound safe or something that would be bought in a small town village."

Solomon nodded his head and followed. He didn't much care if the beats were too dangerous for town or not, but wanted to see if the merchant had anything of use.


"Mister Broxilby. My friend here would like to inquire about what you offer. Surely, a seasoned merchant such as yourself has many fine things for humble church servants such as ourselves."

"Indeed, what wares do you have for us goblin?" Solomon asked calmy

[Zaydos]

"I have various wares, sirs and lady," the goblin begins. "If it is items of power you seek I carry swords, and shields, armor and helms, cloaks and rings. A veritable cornucopia of arcane wares. If it is beasts you seek, I warn you that the trade of eggs sharply drops as Gilgash gains strength. As such the price of a dragon's egg, especially those of a crimson-scaled drake, has risen steeply. Perhaps a griffon egg would be closer to your price range."

From this closer vantage point you can see a pair of creatures, just short of seven feet in height, composed of rusted metal, broken glass, and other discarded waste. Squatting upon the shoulder of one is a miniature wyvern, no larger than a falcon. They all watch carefully from their positions behind the goblin. Even the hippogriffs seem to be watching you warily.

In the wagon are several chests, and an iron vault of some sort. You can see a haphazard pile of wands, staffs, and swords in one corner, and a suit of plate is worn by a dummy in another. The goblin himself wears a pendant upon his chest, a light suit of mithril chain beneath his cloak, a ring upon each finger, and his eyes are tinted by some form of almost certainly magical lens. He is a merchant who deals in dangerous substances and sells to the most dangerous breed of customer, adventurers. Even now you can see the tip of a wand poking from beneath his sleeve, set in some mechanism to aid in quickly readying it in case of emergency.

"So what would you like to buy? I'm sure I have some things that will prove useful to a priest, a fine ephod," one of his hands dives into the pile of wands and blades to pull forth a garment, "made to help banish the walking dead, perhaps?"

[SuperCracker]

"Indeed your wares are many and varied. However, I shall have to postpone any purchases until after our upcoming endeavor."

As for Dragon's eggs, Sir Elric was not interested in raising a chromatic dragon, or purchasing a griffon. Indeed, he trusted in Bahamut to provide a willing companion one day.

[shiverman]

"Hmmm..." was all Solomon said as he browsed the Goblin's items. The merchant seemed to have some fine items, but nothing the fighter could afford at the moment.
"I shall see you after I return from my current endeavor" Solomon stated curtly, and walked back with the vampiric man to their strange party.

"Shall we take our leave once the...elf.. is done?"

[SuperCracker]

"I agree. The sooner we dispatch these bandits and capture this man, the sooner we can be on to bigger things."

He said to Solomon.

[Rannil]

Rhana bows for the goblin. She decided she needed to hie her questions well, she didn't want to insult the goblin. "Well I don't think I got enough gold for your eccentric wares at the moment, but maybe in few days. It does make me wonder, how long would you sty in such a village? I don't think many commoners are interested in these kind of wares, it must be hard to sell them here."

[Zaydos]

"I don't intend to stay long. In fact... perhaps you could help me. I'm looking for flash sacs from Kothian ankhegs, bring me a few of those and I'll make it worth your time. I'd be willing to pay for their eggs as well." the goblin says in answer to Rhana's question. "Sometimes my commissions are quite annoying, though you'd be surprised how well the business goes in Koth. The peasants might be poor, but the priesthood has more gold than decent uses for it."

[Rannil]

Rhana shakes her head. "Well, I don't got the time the moment, official business you see. Maybe afterward, if nothing else comes in my way, but I guess you are out of town by then."

Just in case:

Sense Motive on the Goblin: [roll0]

Bluff check because I'm sort of lying: [roll1]
Hunting bandits ain't official business.

[Zaydos]

"Just thought I'd mention it," the goblin says with a grin, "They're predatory beasts known to attack travelers so it's not impossible you'll encounter them on your business. If you do, gather the parts and I'll pay, if you don't I will have to look elsewhere."

@Rannil:
Well you don't know if he's lying about anything, and you get the feeling this is an on the level proposition.

[Rannil]

"If I encounter them you will hear about it." She promised. "But now I must take my leave." She walks outside, waiting for the other interested to defeat those bandits and see whether they got other useful information.

[shiverman]

Solomon stood silent as Rhana, walked back to the group. "Did the goblin have any useful information?"

[Kaosubaloo]

Woden was watching wearily from a distance as the adventurers spoke to the Gob, trusting it about as far is it could throw him, but again keeping in mind that wantonly attacking is would likely be taken poorly.

Now that the group has returned from it, he voices his opinion on the matter. The Goblin is a gob; you can't take anything it says at face value. Now, to business! These bandits most likely have a camp somewhere near the keep and some certainly wanted out for drink and pleasure. So, unless any of you actually know where to find them, I'd suggest we ask around and browbeat a few drunkards.

[SuperCracker]

"Indeed. We should gather as much information as possible, rather than blindly charge the countryside."

Sir Elric ties up his warhorse, then makes his way towards the nearest inn. After entering, he looks about for anyone who seems shady enough to have dealings with bandits.

[Zaydos]

Upon entering the Sleeping Cat Inn and Tavern, the first person you notice is a fairly large man by the doorway. His somewhat misshapen face, betrays what is likely an ogrish heritage. He has a sap in hand, and wears studded leather armor. He is almost 6'5" tall and fairly large, although you have no doubt you could take him in a one on one fight.

The wonderful smell you noticed earlier is most likely coming from the center table. A group of 4 elves, and 2 catfolk, clad in silks sit in a circle about it eating a hearty, if late, breakfast. In the center of the table is a locked, metal strongbox. Another group of five humans are playing cards at a nearby table as they eat. They're wearing a mix of scale and chain mail, and longswords hang at their waists.

Two men sit at the bar, separated by several empty stools. One has mid-length red hair, a freckled face, and a grin as he watches the barmaid walk. The other wears a cloak inscribed with three symbols, one of which matches that which Rhana wears on her cloak, the other two likely the holy symbols of other gods. In addition to these three symbols his cloak is inscribed with various runic glyphs which can be recognized as Draconic writing. His hair is long and black, tied back in a ponytail. A hawk perches on the stool beside his, occasionally the man will take a piece of meat from his breakfast and feed it to the bird.

[SuperCracker]

The lockbox was intriguing, but it wasn't what he came here for. The man who was grinning and staring at the barmaid seemed like the type who might know something... or he was simply a pervert. Either way, it was worth a shot. Sir Elric made his way over to him.

"Barmaid, a drink for my new friend here."

(Rolling Diplomacy on him.)

[roll0]

[Zaydos]

He gives you a look. He seems suspicious at first but quickly dismisses it. "So what you doin' here? An adventurer, a mercenary? I'm guessing you have some questions."

He's about 16, maybe 17, and his eyes a light hazel. You note the definite odor of spell reagents, and the bulging pouch which is most likely where he keeps his spell components. Under his clothes he seems to be wearing a suit of studded leather armor, although such light armor is common in these days of bandits, raiders, and monsters.

[SuperCracker]

"I'm simply seeking the whereabouts of an old friend from my rougher days. Someone who I'd like to catch up with at some point. I heard he was in a bit of trouble, so I've decided to come help him out. I was wondering if you knew him."

Speaking quietly, Sir Elric said.

"His name is Kotetsu, and I'm sure he'd want to speak with me as soon as possible."

[Zaydos]

Yes they are, and also you'll need to make a bluff check soon.

[Tacitus]

Jakiro

The minuscule dragon eventually caught wind of the goblin's eyes upon him, but still seemed to care little. He was listening, but had more of an eye out for any unattended pies that might be sitting around outside. When the group of individuals (or portion thereof) he had been keeping tabs on heads inside the nearest tavern he follows but does not enter. He instead keeps to the shadows and disappears down an alley. He circles around the building to check for alternate exits and then flies up to land on the roof (as out-of-sight as possible, of course) and wait for the adventurers to exit.

[Zaydos]

@Jakiro:
You see a back door, from the garbage and food scraps beside it you figure it is where the cook disposes of kitchen trash. There are two sleeping men in the alley, wearing tattered rags and stinking of unwashed man-flesh. Interestingly there is a badly concealed secret door leading into the alley as well.

From the roof you have a decent view of the town, and can even see the front of the temple a few blocks away (the inn is 2 stories, the rest of the town is 1 story buildings). A man is emerging from it with several armed guards.

[SuperCracker]

OOC: Okay. Let's try the bluff check first. (Hopefully a party member who actually has bluff can back me up here.) If that fails, I'll try to charm gaze him.

[roll0]

[Zaydos]

"Isn't that the guy on the poster outside?" he asks, "He's in league with those dirty orcish bandits, ain't he? How could you be friends with a monster like that?"

[shiverman]

Solomon stands off near Elric, close enough so that he can hear their conversation, but not close enough to seem imposing. He scanned through the crowd warily, looking at the different vagabonds that fill the bar. He wanted a chance at the ogre, but doubted he would prove to be too much of a challenge. His eyes drifted to the man with the cloak, and for a moment he was about to approach him but stayed back, a moment longer after he heard the red haired man's reply.

I'll sense motive the guy before I try something:
[roll0]

[Zaydos]

@shiverman:
The man in the cloak seems to simply be minding his own business. He gives off a professional air, that of a mercenary wizard.

As for the man with red hair, his disgust seems faked.

[Kaosubaloo]

Where the others enter the Tavern, Woden instead looks around the building, searching for drunks who may have spent the night in a gutter.

[Zaydos]

@Kaosubaloo
You see a back door, from the garbage and food scraps beside it you figure it is where the cook disposes of kitchen trash. There are two sleeping men in the alley, wearing tattered rags and stinking of unwashed man-flesh.

[Kaosubaloo]

Woden inspects the sleeping men; then prods one with his foot - hard - until he wakes.


Just a heads up, I've noted my current readied maneuvers on my Character sheet

[Zaydos]

@Kaosubaloo: "What do you want?" the man says groggily.

[shiverman]

Solomon approaches the empty stools and takes a seat beside Elric and the cloaked man.

"The rogue is feigning his disgust. " Solomon whispered to Elric quietly, while looking at the barman and signaling him over.

[SuperCracker]

"I see."

Elric said quietly when Solomon whispered to him. Elric leaned in closer to the cloaked man.

"Then shall we both dispense with the facades? I wish to find this man, and I believe you can help me do just that."

He was going to try mundane tactics just once more, before subverting the man's will.

(Diplomacy)
[roll0]

[Zaydos]

(should have been intimidate, but you'd have made that with that roll)

The man looks at you, a little shaken, and glances at Solomon. "I can't tell you much, he's rather new. Came in a few weeks ago and took over the band. The orcs respect him for his strength, not like they ever respected us mages, and well you typically obey the guy with a wolf that can eat you in two gulps," he whispers.

He then glances from side to side and says, "If you promise me a full pardon I could take you to the camp."

[SuperCracker]

Elric grinned ever so slightly, revealing his slightly elongated canine teeth.

"I believe I can live with that deal. Step outside with us, and tell us what you know of him. We shall go there shortly."

Edit: (Also, just for future reference, I'm going to Detect Evil and look around the tavern. Not planning on acting on anything, yet, just seeing who's on the list to check up on later.)

[Zaydos]

@SuperCracker: The man gulps, but nods and follows you wordlessly.
You sense 4 evil auras round 1, round 2 you can identify that they belong to the red-haired man, and one each of the elves, catfolks, and swordsmen.

[Kaosubaloo]

"Can't hold your liquor, eh? Heh. Well, I have a job for you, so get up and come on. I shant like take kindly to needing to drag you. Or would you rather I kick you some more first?" Woden proceeds to seeing the man off then ground, then either leads or drags him out of the ally and towards the group - whichever takes less time.

[SuperCracker]

Once Elric has rejoined the group, he motions towards the bandit he and Solomon had in tow. "Fellow compatriots, I believe we have found a guide to our quarry. Though we may wish to come back to this inn later and do further investigation."

[shiverman]

Solomon followed silently after Elric and the red haired mage had their conversation. The way the man described Kotetsu he was sure the man was a menace... and a challenge. Solomon smiled slightly in anticipation.


"Fellow compatriots, I believe we have found a guide to our quarry. Though we may wish to come back to this inn later and do further investigation."

"If the mage leads us to our mark, what is left to investigate?"

[SuperCracker]

"I sensed quite a few evil parties in there, in particular that crowd around the lockbox. Upon our return here, we could find out what they are up to. It would certainly be an interesting diversion." He said to Solomon.

[shiverman]

"I see.." Solomon replied.
He didn't care much for evil or good to be honest. But he liked the idea of taking care of the assortment of scum in this bar. He was tempted to wield his scythe now, and take care of the mess before they pressed on, but he knew that'd give the mark time to escape.

"I call the ogre when we get back then..." He said quietly.

[Zaydos]

@Kaosubaloo: The man half follows you/half allows you to drag him. The entire time he is grumbling and complaining about how "there'd better be food at the end of this."

When you reach the front of the inn you can see that two of your companions have also managed to collect someone, either a new ally or a guide of some sort. He doesn't seem happy about his current situation so you guess he's being forced into this.

[Sir_Chivalry]

Sitting in a corner of the tavern is a verdant man wearing white robes, fiddling with his drink, not really drinking it.

OOC: Sorry for the delay, forgot to subscribe to the OOC thread.

[Tacitus]

Jakiro

The dragon leans over the edge of the roof just far enough to watch the festivities below. So far the silly people have managed to corral a drunk and a scrawny little man. How quaint.

[Kaosubaloo]

Oh? I see you found someone inside. Well, I found someone out, so lets compare stories. This man was drunk in a gutter. He has promised to tell us what we need to know, or else. What about your man?"

[SuperCracker]

"This gentleman has graciously decided to take us to our quarry's camp.... haven't you?" Sir Elric said, smiling and briefly baring his sharp canines at the bandit.

"We shall soon be on our way."

[Zaydos]

The man Woden holds stirs a bit, and whines, "I don't 'ven know what you 'ant. I just 'ant some food."

The scent of alcohol is on his breath, and his clothes are filthy and frayed at the edges.

[shiverman]

"I don't 'ven know what you 'ant. I just 'ant some food."

"Do you know this drunk?" Solomon questioned the mage, raising an eyebrow at the man's appearance. He looked a little too shabby to be a bandit.

[Zaydos]

The red-haired mage looks at the man and you can see a faint quiver of disgust across his face. "He's just one of the beggars that Tosric gives the food the inn throws out to. He's worthless."

[shiverman]

Sense Motive: [roll0]

"Very well then... but should I find that you are lying, I will kill him and beat you with his bloodied corpse" Solomon whispered, peeling back his hood a bit so that the mage could see his heritage.

Solomon shoved the man afterward encouraging him to lead the way.

[Zaydos]

The mage moves forward sullenly and reluctantly. The beggar tries to pull free of Woden's grasp once again complaining, "When am I gonna get my food?"

@Shiverman:
he seems to be telling the truth

[Kaosubaloo]

"You're not. It turns out we didn't need you, and you haven't earn it - unless, that is, you have something to tell me that I want to hear." Woden releases the bum and turns away, following the pally.

[SuperCracker]

Sir Elric nods to Woden, looks around to his other compatriots, then says, "Very well. Let us be off." And he proceeds to go the route the mage tells them.

[Zaydos]

The beggar wanders back to the alley grumbling, "they 'ake me up, they make me 'alk, and they don't 'ven give me food. Nuisances they are, nuisances."

@Jakiro: From your perch you can see the group of warriors escorting a red haired man out of town.

@Sir Chivalry: Outside the inn window you can see a group of what appears to be adventurers leaving town. They are probably going after the bandits talked about on the poster outside, and seem to be mostly warriors. Perhaps they could use some healing in their noble cause.

[Sir_Chivalry]

Willowbreeze pays his bill and walk outside, signaling to the adventurers

"Ho brave warriors! Willowbreeze, that is to say I, wish to join your party of boon compan-*snigger*-I'm sorry, I can't keep this up. Hello, Willowbreeze here. You appear to be heading out of town, I'd like to tag along if you don't mind, I need some practice sewing people back up."

[SuperCracker]

A pale man with red eyes, wearing full-plate emblazoned with the symbol of the Knights of Bahamut, with a lance, atop a warhorse, looks to Willowbreeze and smiles at the gesture of good humor. "A healer would be welcome in our group. However, you should know that we are on our way to deal with a clan of bandits. But, if you feel you can handle the danger, you are more than welcome. I am Sir Elric Darkholme."

[shiverman]

"You'll have all the bodies you need my friend... though sewing up the dead won't help them much." Solomon said with a slight grin on his face, "Though I wouldn't mind someone tagging along if they could keep me fighting longer"

[Rannil]

Rhana-Escora bows. "Always nice to have a healer. Glad to have you on this trip."

[Tacitus]

Jakiro

With a single massive burst of power from his wings the minuscule dragon takes to the air, heading out of sight behind the inn before gaining altitude in order to follow the group from the skies. He keeps himself high enough to merely look like another bird in the skies, albeit a fairly large one, while still being able to vaguely pick out the assembled group. A benefit of this is obviously his ability to pick out any potential ambushes they may not see from the ground or simple beasts wandering into their path.

[Sir_Chivalry]

Jakiro

With a single massive burst of power from his wings the minuscule dragon takes to the air, heading out of sight behind the inn before gaining altitude in order to follow the group from the skies. He keeps himself high enough to merely look like another bird in the skies, albeit a fairly large one, while still being able to vaguely pick out the assembled group. A benefit of this is obviously his ability to pick out any potential ambushes they may not see from the ground or simple beasts wandering into their path.

Willowbreeze jabs his thumb at the dragon.

"He's fond of displays ain't he?"

[Zaydos]

The red haired mage leads you down the road. For the first quarter hour you pass farmlands nestled between the towns inner and outer walls. While the inner walls, much smaller and more compact, are made of stone patrolled by archers, this outer wall is simply a tall wooden wall (about 20-ft) and not thick enough to host patrols. A pair of sentries guard the open gate, they carry shortswords and shortbows and wear studded leather armor. You can also see several watchtowers placed around the edge of the wall, reaching 30-ft in height, probably to replace the need for walking sentries.

The red haired mage leads you out of the town, into the forest which grows up to its very walls. The road is a decent one, kept smooth enough to allow a wagon to go through at least. As you're leaving the town behind you see a single arrow fly into the sky at a bird overhead, although it misses badly.

The woods grow denser away from town, and after another ~20 minutes you come upon the site of a bloody battle. Two horses lie dead, one's head severed by a powerful blow from an axe. Four men are scattered about, dying if not dead.

@Jakiro:
Mistaking you for a bird, one of the guards shoots an arrow at you. You have trouble making out the group at all points due to canopy cover, but can see where there had been a battle ahead of them.

[Sir_Chivalry]

Willowbreeze moves among the four dying men, checking for life and steming their wounds

OOC: Stem Wounds, each man gains temporary hit points equal to the Heal check I make, it will take four turns to do this.
[roll0]
[roll1]
[roll2]
[roll3]

[Zaydos]

Willowbreeze moves among the four dying men, checking for life and steming their wounds

OOC: Stem Wounds, each man gains temporary hit points equal to the Heal check I make, it will take four turns to do this.
[roll0]
[roll1]
[roll2]
[roll3]


Two of the men are already dead, you manage to save the other two. One man's eyes flicker open slowly to look at you.

[SuperCracker]

"Is this the work of your former band?" Sir Elric asked the mage, with a hint of anger in his voice. He gave a nod of respect to Willowbreeze, and spoke to the man who woke up. "You are safe now. Don't try to move too much, though. What happened here?"

[Zaydos]

The mage nods, "Most likely."

The injured man, looks up at you. "We saw the bounty, and decided to go hunting bandits. What fools we were. Mere bravos with swords! We got here and suddenly we heard a solemn chanting, as if a prayer, and orcs burst from the woods. The blade of an axe struck my back, if not for my armor I'd have been killed then and there, and I fell from my horse. My head struck the ground and I don't remember a thing that happened afterward."

[shiverman]

"So they most likely have a shaman or some sort... how many orcs were there?" Solomon asks the man as he surveys the scene from a standing location.

Spot to see if anything useful or interesting is near(including scouts): [roll0]

[Zaydos]

"I saw three, I think, but it happened so quick. I saw the yellow-orange skin of an orc only moments before his axe struck my back and I tumbled from my steed. There could easily have been more that came out and I didn't see. Surely we didn't outnumber so there must have been at least four." the man says.

@Shiverman:
You can see where the bushes were, rather obviously, disturbed by the sudden bursting charge of the orcs, but you do not see any scouts.

[shiverman]

"So at least 4 and at most we don't know..." Solomon said to himself as he peered behind the bushes, "Shouldn't be too much of a problem... though whoever took that horse's head off has considerable strength..."

Solomon turned to the others. "What do we do about these two?"

[SuperCracker]

"Are you both well enough to make it back to town? We should not waste any time tracking them." He looked at the members of his party. "Are any of you capable scouts? They appear to enjoy ambushes, so why don't we construct one of our own."

[shiverman]

"My eyes and ears are sharp but I am no ranger... if need be I can move up ahead of us though" Solomon said calmy. He had no problem leading, but did not know how to track well.

[Zaydos]

Looking at Sir Elric the man says, "I feel like I'm living on borrowed time already. I can try to return to town and find a priest; and hope I can buy some healing from them without too dear a price. Did any of my companions survive?"

[Kaosubaloo]

"I'm not much of a sneak myself; but I'm probably a better one then him...but I think sticking together will be the better plan. It is unlikely we will be able to surprise a group of Orcs on their own ground, and probably unnecessary."

[Sir_Chivalry]

Looking at Sir Elric the man says, "I feel like I'm living on borrowed time already. I can try to return to town and find a priest; and hope I can buy some healing from them without too dear a price. Did any of my companions survive?"
"If we had time to stop I could patch you up proper, but this will need to do."

He hands the man the potion of cure light wounds from his pouch, and sets to work making bandages for the other man's wounds, to prolong his life as much as possible

OOC: Taking ten on a Heal check to do quick first aid, the kinf from Complete Adventurer that slows hit point loss, might give him a bigger window of time.

[Zaydos]

Your ministrations manage to awaken the second survivor. A large slash cut across his face and were it not for his helmet he would have died, even so his nose was broken beneath the guard and his right eye permanently damaged. He looks at you with his left eye. "The orcs," he gasps.

OOC: the cure light wounds potion is enough that it'll most likely bring the first man to positive hp. The latter, though, was nearer death (-8 hp).

[SuperCracker]

To save the heavily injured man, sir Elric steps up to the challenge. He dismounts and kneels down, placing his hands upon the man. Where his father would have drained the man, Elric instead heals him!

(I lay on hands enough to get him up on his feet.)

[Sir_Chivalry]

To save the heavily injured man, sir Elric steps up to the challenge. He dismounts and kneels down, placing his hands upon the man. Where his father would have drained the man, Elric instead heals him!

(I lay on hands enough to get him up on his feet.)

"Thank you, I not as good at bringing people back from death's doorstep when time is of the essense. I owe you a favour."

[SuperCracker]

"Thank you, I not as good at bringing people back from death's doorstep when time is of the essense. I owe you a favour."

"Merely continue to aid us in your most zealous manner and I will be satisfied."

Sir Elric once more mounts his warhorse. After pondering the suggestions from the party, he nods.

"As much as I would like an ambush, you are correct. We do not seem to have someone stealthy enough for the job, and it is their home turf. So let us meet them head on."

[Zaydos]

The man's wounds close, but his right eye will never see again barring truly powerful magic and he will most likely never be able to breathe through his nose again.

"Thank you," he says, "thank you both. Six orcs leap from woods. One's axe struck down Arik, and another took the head from a horse. There were only four of us and they had surprise on their side. We didn't stand a chance. What fools were we to think we could fight them."

@SuperCracker: that's all of your Lay on Hands for the day; not that you shouldn't have enough healing without it.

[SuperCracker]

The man's wounds close, but his right eye will never see again barring truly powerful magic and he will most likely never be able to breathe through his nose again.

"Thank you," he says, "thank you both. Six orcs leap from woods. One's axe struck down Arik, and another took the head from a horse. There were only four of us and they had surprise on their side. We didn't stand a chance. What fools were we to think we could fight them."

@SuperCracker: that's all of your Lay on Hands for the day; not that you shouldn't have enough healing without it.

"Go home to your loved ones, and if you don't have any, find a lovely lady. Enjoy life, and leave the bandits to us."

[Zaydos]

"Thank you," they both say, before heading back down the road. You can only hope they don't encounter more danger on their way back.

The mage just scowls, "Why waste your magic on fools like them, they'll never repay it? Most likely they'll perform some other stupid attempt to get rich quickly and die in it."

[SuperCracker]

"Because, if I were lying near death on the road, I would want someone to do that for me. Surely you wouldn't argue with someone healing you, mage."

(Rolling diplomacy. We're going to play the "try to change the bad guy's alignment" game.)

[roll0]

[Zaydos]

"Because, if I were lying near death on the road, I would want someone to do that for me. Surely you wouldn't argue with someone healing you, mage."

"I wouldn't expect it, either," the mage says, "the priests have the power, but nothing is free with them. And to give away a potion to a random fool?"

[SuperCracker]

"I didn't ask if you would expect it. But you don't need to answer my original question. I know you would want that kind of healing. As for why we would give a potion away, I doubt altruism would sway you. But think of it this way. If we ever encounter them again, they would feel obliged to help us. That could mean information, lodging, many potential ways to be helped, all for one act of generosity. AT least grasp the pragmatic side of things."

Diplomacy: [roll0]

[Tacitus]

Jakiro

Meanwhile, the dragon soars lazily through the skies in no particular pattern but with just enough eye on the quirky little bounty hunters.

Obligatory 'Still Here' post. I'll be away from base starting from about noon tomorrow through Sunday nightish.

[Zaydos]

"I didn't ask if you would expect it. But you don't need to answer my original question. I know you would want that kind of healing. As for why we would give a potion away, I doubt altruism would sway you. But think of it this way. If we ever encounter them again, they would feel obliged to help us. That could mean information, lodging, many potential ways to be helped, all for one act of generosity. AT least grasp the pragmatic side of things."

"Pragmatically you might need the potion before the day is out. A slim chance of future gain isn't worth putting your life in danger." the mage says coldly.

[SuperCracker]

"No risk, no reward." He said simply.

[shiverman]

Solomon watched with passing interest as the green man did his work on the soldiers, and Sir Elric healed the other. He listened to the two exchange some words, preparing to once again make way.



"As much as I would like an ambush, you are correct. We do not seem to have someone stealthy enough for the job, and it is their home turf. So let us meet them head on."

"Direct and honorable combat..." Solomon said as he smiled, "I think you and I will get along just fine Elric"

He waited for a moment as Elric explained his take on their actions to the mage who seemed closed minded at the least.

"Leave it be Elric... if the mage wants to die alone and unaccomplished let that be up to him to decide" Solomon said, more to the red haired man than Elric, for truly that is the only end selfishness would grant you.

[SuperCracker]

"I think you and I will get along just fine Elric"

He nodded to Solomon. "Indeed we shall. I look forward to seeing what you can do on the battlefield. I expect it will be impressive."

OOC: See! Not all paladins are stick in the muds *thrusts finger at everyone who roleplays them that way*.

[Zaydos]

The red-haired mage blanches a little and mutters under his breath, "I won't die alone... bloody stupid altruists. It'll just get them all killed."

OOC: Of course paladins love combat, especially the most upfront and awesome forms, it's what being a paladin is about. Just ask Roland the original paladin.

Also nice good cop, bad cop routine.

[shiverman]

Solomon merely nodded and showed exposed his fangs while grinning.
"Let us be off then..." Solomon said motioning for the mage to take lead once again. Solomon's face was fixed in a slight grin, his eyes looking to the battle yet to come. His heartbeat quickened at the notion of combat, and the chance to use his scythe.

[Zaydos]

Anyone who enters the woods go ahead and make a spot check.

[shiverman]

Solomon: [roll0]

[SuperCracker]

Spot Check
[roll0]

[Kaosubaloo]

spot check

[roll0]

[Rannil]

Spot: [roll0]

Also remember I have Tremor Sense (60ft) and Wide Vision. No one is getting close to me unnoticed.:smalltongue:

[Sir_Chivalry]

Spot Check:[roll0]

[Zaydos]

@shiverman:
You catch the slight movement of an orc up ahead; you think there are six, lying in wait in the woods.

@Rannil:
your tremorsense detects the presence of 4 orcs at the furthest extent of its range

[shiverman]

Solomon grins an evil grin and unsheathes his scythe, wielding it in a flourish.
"It seems our orcish guests are still here" Solomon says to the rest of the party.

[Kaosubaloo]

I immediately adopt the Island of Blades stance and draw my Greatsword at his warning.


Island of Blade stance in a nutshell for those who don't know:

Any enemy that is adjacent to myself and an ally is considered flanked to everyone adjacent to it.

[shiverman]

As his allies prepare themselves Solomon will move to the nearest ork he can and make a trip attack with improved trip.
OoC: Would it be possible to get a map or a basic layout of where everything is?

[SuperCracker]

"It seems the cowards prefer to hide! Well, if they choose to cower in fear and be run down rather than stand and face their destruction as men, I'm happy to oblige!" The Paladin said, his sharp canines showing and his red eyes seeming to glow slightly. He hefted his lance, preparing for combat.

[Zaydos]

2 more men stand up behind the man in robes.

Time for everyone to roll initiative. If you get higher than 7 you can go ahead and take your turn, if less than you will have to wait for the others/monsters. Yes; I rolled for each different type of enemy and I got a total of 7 three times.

Map:

Key (don't worry not everything will be in deep woods):
t = small tree, or peripheral of large tree: difficult terrain, grants cover
b = bush: difficult terrain, grants concealment
T = large tree: impassable (fills entire square), grants total cover
u = undergrowth: difficult terrain
c = clear (normal terrain, no effect)
O = orc
R = man in robes
M = man
E = Elric (and horse)
R = Rhana
W = Woden
Wi = Willowbreeze
S = Solomon

I will make the map 6 by 17
{table]c|u|t|u|b|u|
u|b|u|R(u)|Wi(b)|t
u|W(c)|E(u)|E(b)|u|u
t|S(c)|E(u)|E(u)|b|t
t|c|b|u|t|T
t|c|u|b|t|t
c|c|t|u|u|u
t|b|u|b|t|u
b|t|u|b|b|b
c|u|u|b|t|u
b|t|u|u|u|b
u|b|b|u|b|b
u|c|t|c|u|c
o(b)|o(b)|u|o(t)|u|o(b)
u|c|o(t)|u|o(b)|u
c|b|b|R(b)|t|c
M(b)|u|c|M(t)|c|b
[/table]

[shiverman]

Solomon: initiative [roll0]

Solomon will charge forward I guess using two move actions, The Orc infront of me is my dodge target.

[SuperCracker]

(Rolling initiative, will edit in an action when I get a chance.)

[roll0]

[Sir_Chivalry]

Initiative roll:[roll0]

[Zaydos]

Updated (for Solomon's movement) Map:

Key (don't worry not everything will be in deep woods):
t = small tree, or peripheral of large tree: difficult terrain, grants cover
b = bush: difficult terrain, grants concealment
T = large tree: impassable (fills entire square), grants total cover
u = undergrowth: difficult terrain
c = clear (normal terrain, no effect)
O = orc
R = man in robes
M = man
E = Elric (and horse)
R = Rhana
W = Woden
Wi = Willowbreeze
S = Solomon
, = Solomon's dodge target

I will make the map 6 by 17
{table]c|u|t|u|b|u|
u|b|u|R(u)|Wi(b)|t
u|W(c)|E(u)|E(b)|u|u
t|c|E(u)|E(u)|b|t
t|c|b|u|t|T
t|c|u|b|t|t
c|c|t|u|u|u
t|b|u|b|t|u
b|t|u|b|b|b
c|u|u|b|t|u
b|S(t)|u|u|u|b
u|b|b|u|b|b
u|c|t|c|u|c
o(b)|o,(b)|u|o(t)|u|o(b)
u|c|o(t)|u|o(b)|u
c|b|b|R(b)|t|c
M(b)|u|c|M(t)|c|b
[/table]

Edit: shiverman is Solomon taking a total defense action? He only moved so he can do so, but that would mean no AoO if the enemies move into range. They're orcs so their most likely action is just to attack you so I'll assume total defense unless you say otherwise.

[Kaosubaloo]

Init

[roll0]


I will proceed forward 4 squares and 1 to the right (into the clear square).

OOC:

If I make a suggestion: Label the grid with Letters and Numbers. This will make it much, much easier to tell you where we are going.

[Zaydos]

Updated (for Woden's movement) Map (now includes labels; X is used to replace M on the labels do to M already being in use):

Key (don't worry not everything will be in deep woods):
t = small tree, or peripheral of large tree: difficult terrain, grants cover
b = bush: difficult terrain, grants concealment
T = large tree: impassable (fills entire square), grants total cover
u = undergrowth: difficult terrain
c = clear (normal terrain, no effect)
O = orc
R = man in robes
M = man
E = Elric (and horse)
R = Rhana
W = Woden
Wi = Willowbreeze
S = Solomon
, = Solomon's dodge target

I will make the map 6 by 17
{table]|1|2|3|4|5|6
A|c|u|t|u|b|u|
B|u|b|u|R(u)|Wi(b)|t
C|u|c|E(u)|E(b)|u|u
D|t|c|E(u)|E(u)|b|t
E|t|c|b|u|t|T
F|t|c|u|b|t|t
G|W(c)|c|t|u|u|u
H|t|b|u|b|t|u
I|b|t|u|b|b|b
J|c|u|u|b|t|u
K|b|S(t)|u|u|u|b
L|u|b|b|u|b|b
X|u|c|t|c|u|c
N|o(b)|o,(b)|u|o(t)|u|o(b)
O|u|c|o(t)|u|o(b)|u
P|c|b|b|R(b)|t|c
Q|M(b)|u|c|M(t)|c|b
[/table]

[SuperCracker]

Sir Elric will advance to I-4 and ready an action. His action will be to attack the next enemy who gets within reach of his lance (in addition to the attack of opportunity from his reach).

[Zaydos]

Updated (for Elric's movement; hope I have the horse on the right 4 squares) Map (now includes labels; X is used to replace M on the labels do to M already being in use):

Key (don't worry not everything will be in deep woods):
t = small tree, or peripheral of large tree: difficult terrain, grants cover
b = bush: difficult terrain, grants concealment
T = large tree: impassable (fills entire square), grants total cover
u = undergrowth: difficult terrain
c = clear (normal terrain, no effect)
O = orc
R = man in robes
M = man
E = Elric (and horse)
R = Rhana
W = Woden
Wi = Willowbreeze
S = Solomon
, = Solomon's dodge target

I will make the map 6 by 17
{table]|1|2|3|4|5|6
A|c|u|t|u|b|u|
B|u|b|u|R(u)|Wi(b)|t
C|u|c|u|b|u|u
D|t|c|u|u|b|t
E|t|c|b|u|t|T
F|t|c|u|b|t|t
G|W(c)|c|t|u|u|u
H|t|b|E(u)|E(b)|t|u
I|b|t|E(u)|E(b)|b|b
J|c|u|u|b|t|u
K|b|S(t)|u|u|u|b
L|u|b|b|u|b|b
X|u|c|t|c|u|c
N|o(b)|o,(b)|u|o(t)|u|o(b)
O|u|c|o(t)|u|o(b)|u
P|c|b|b|R(b)|t|c
Q|M(b)|u|c|M(t)|c|b
[/table]

[Sir_Chivalry]

Willowbreeze will ready an action to move up to 60ft and aid another to add +2 to AC for the first of his allies attacked

Aid another:[roll0]

[Zaydos]

Willowbreeze will ready an action to move up to 60ft and aid another to add +2 to AC for the first of his allies attacked

Aid another:[roll0]

You can only ready a standard, move, or swift/free action (I double checked the Rules Compendium; also a 5-ft step is allowed). That's a double move action and a standard action.

Edit: Also nice nat 20.

[Sir_Chivalry]

You can only ready a standard, move, or swift/free action (I double checked the Rules Compendium; also a 5-ft step is allowed). That's a double move action and a standard action.

Edit: Also nice nat 20.

Then I delay my action, until such an occurence.

[Zaydos]

Then I delay my action, until such an occurence.

Won't be useful unless they are attacked multiple times... which currently looks like for Solomon. Even then without something to make Aid Another a swift action you can't double move (to Solomon) and use it this round. You can reach... everyone else.

[Sir_Chivalry]

Won't be useful unless they are attacked multiple times... which currently looks like for Solomon. Even then without something to make Aid Another a swift action you can't double move (to Solomon) and use it this round. You can reach... everyone else.

Okay, I'll just move closer to Solomon then.

[Zaydos]

Updated (for Willowbreeze's movement; hope I have the horse on the right 4 squares) Map (now includes labels; X is used to replace M on the labels do to M already being in use):

Key (don't worry not everything will be in deep woods):
t = small tree, or peripheral of large tree: difficult terrain, grants cover
b = bush: difficult terrain, grants concealment
T = large tree: impassable (fills entire square), grants total cover
u = undergrowth: difficult terrain
c = clear (normal terrain, no effect)
O = orc
R = man in robes
M = man
E = Elric (and horse)
R = Rhana
W = Woden
Wi = Willowbreeze
S = Solomon
, = Solomon's dodge target

I will make the map 6 by 17
{table]|1|2|3|4|5|6
A|c|u|t|u|b|u|
B|u|b|u|R(u)|b|t
C|u|c|u|b|u|u
D|t|c|u|u|b|t
E|t|c|b|u|t|T
F|t|c|u|b|t|t
G|W(c)|c|t|u|u|u
H|t|b|E(u)|E(b)|t|u
I|b|t|E(u)|E(b)|b|b
J|c|Wi(u)|u|b|t|u
K|b|S(t)|u|u|u|b
L|u|b|b|u|b|b
X|u|c|t|c|u|c
N|o(b)|o,(b)|u|o(t)|u|o(b)
O|u|c|o(t)|u|o(b)|u
P|c|b|b|R(b)|t|c
Q|M(b)|u|c|M(t)|c|b
[/table]

I'm going to wait for Rannil till this evening at least before the orcs (take a move cation and attack).

[Rannil]

OOC: *points at signature* Also, there are two people (well sort of) with both the symbol "R" on your map. I can find myself now , but a different letter could help. Rh, RE, or even a simple unrelated to my name X, Y or Z would work.

Initiative: [roll0]

[Zaydos]

OOC: *points at signature* Also, there are two people (well sort of) with both the symbol "R" on your map. I can find myself now , but a different letter could help. Rh, RE, or even a simple unrelated to my name X, Y or Z would work.

Initiative: [roll0]

Ah sorry about that, hadn't read your sig since the game began.

Fixing map (will use Rh)
Updated Map (now includes labels; X is used to replace M on the labels do to M already being in use):

Key (don't worry not everything will be in deep woods):
t = small tree, or peripheral of large tree: difficult terrain, grants cover
b = bush: difficult terrain, grants concealment
T = large tree: impassable (fills entire square), grants total cover
u = undergrowth: difficult terrain
c = clear (normal terrain, no effect)
O = orc
R = man in robes
M = man
E = Elric (and horse)
Rh = Rhana
W = Woden
Wi = Willowbreeze
S = Solomon
, = Solomon's dodge target

I will make the map 6 by 17
{table]|1|2|3|4|5|6
A|c|u|t|u|b|u|
B|u|b|u|Rh(u)|b|t
C|u|c|u|b|u|u
D|t|c|u|u|b|t
E|t|c|b|u|t|T
F|t|c|u|b|t|t
G|W(c)|c|t|u|u|u
H|t|b|E(u)|E(b)|t|u
I|b|t|E(u)|E(b)|b|b
J|c|Wi(u)|u|b|t|u
K|b|S(t)|u|u|u|b
L|u|b|b|u|b|b
X|u|c|t|c|u|c
N|o(b)|o,(b)|u|o(t)|u|o(b)
O|u|c|o(t)|u|o(b)|u
P|c|b|b|R(b)|t|c
Q|M(b)|u|c|M(t)|c|b
[/table]

I'm going to wait for Rannil till this evening at least before the orcs (take a move cation and attack).

[Rannil]

OOC (to lazy to type "Rhana-Escora sees combat and walks forwards, hindered by everything hampering her speed to a bare minimum") I walk to F4, end turn.

[Zaydos]

The man wearing robes holds up a wooden (un)holy symbol of some sort, and says a swift prayer before the orcs. Suddenly they spring forward, bellowing at the top of their lungs and practically foaming at their mouths. Two orcs wrap around to flank Willowbreeze, placing them within easy reach of Elric's devastating lance (the orc in J1 enters first triggering your readied action, the orc in J3 provokes an AoO), and another loops around to Solomon's side.
The remaining three rush the tiefling, bringing their axes to bear.

And miss wildly letting out animalistic howls in their frustrated anger (highest total was a 15).

The final two men give piercing looks and utter words that no human throat can pronounce in a world without magic and both fire of blue and red energy at Willowbreeze (5 force damage each, total 10; rolled target randomly for each of them, sorry).

PC turn.

Updated Map (for Rhana and monsters; now includes labels; X is used to replace M on the labels do to M already being in use):

Key (don't worry not everything will be in deep woods):
t = small tree, or peripheral of large tree: difficult terrain, grants cover
b = bush: difficult terrain, grants concealment
T = large tree: impassable (fills entire square), grants total cover
u = undergrowth: difficult terrain
c = clear (normal terrain, no effect)
O = orc
R = man in robes
M = man
E = Elric (and horse)
Rh = Rhana
W = Woden
Wi = Willowbreeze
S = Solomon
, = Solomon's dodge target

I will make the map 6 by 17
{table]|1|2|3|4|5|6
A|c|u|t|u|b|u|
B|u|b|u|u|b|t
C|u|c|u|b|u|u
D|t|c|u|u|b|t
E|t|c|b|u|t|T
F|t|c|u|b|t|t
G|W(c)|c|t|u|u|u
H|t|Rh(b)|E(u)|E(b)|t|u
I|b|t|E(u)|E(b)|b|b
J|o(c)|Wi(u)|o(u)|b|t|u
K|b|S(t)|o(u)|u|u|b
L|o,(u)|o(b)|o(b)|u|b|b
X|u|c|t|c|u|c
N|b|b|u|t|u|b
O|u|c|t|u|b|u
P|c|b|b|R(b)|t|c
Q|M(b)|u|c|M(t)|c|b
[/table]

@Rannil: You could move to 5G if you wanted instead with a double move, it would get you closer to the battle. If you decide to just say so (yes I know this map was confusing... maybe I'll color code things as well for next battle).

[SuperCracker]

As the orcs close in, Sir Elric's eyes blaze with fury. The holy warrior of Bahamut would show no mercy to these wretches. As the first orc drew within range, Elric, wielding the lance with both hands, attempted to run the fool through.

First Attack: [roll0]

Which is not to say that Elric ignored the next orc to come within range. Using his reach as an advantage, he lanced again!

Attack of Opportunity: [roll1]

[Zaydos]

As the orcs close in, Sir Elric's eyes blaze with fury. The holy warrior of Bahamut would show no mercy to these wretches. As the first orc drew within range, Elric, wielding the lance with both hands, attempted to run the fool through.

First Attack: [roll0]

Which is not to say that Elric ignored the next orc to come within range. Using his reach as an advantage, he lanced again!

Attack of Opportunity: [roll1]

Both hit (by which I mean a good clean hit, AC on these things is only 14), roll damage.

[SuperCracker]

Damage on Readied Action: [roll0]
Damage on Attack of Opportunity: [roll1]

[Zaydos]

The orcs don't even flinch, taking the blows to their chests and continuing to move. In their blood lust they don't even seem to feel the pain, or at least not any more than enough to turn their gazes towards Sir Elric with an obvious desire to kill this nuisance.

The first one stabbed looks like the wound is quite serious (~75% of health), the later looks like it should be hurting but is not near death (~50% of health).

[SuperCracker]

Well, they'll flinch at this. Elric lances the orc on K-3, and the Warhorse full attacks the orc on J-3.

Elric's attack: [roll0]
Warhorse: 2 hooves [roll1] [roll2] and bite [roll3]

[Zaydos]

Roll damage and confirm crit on the last attack.

If you'd prefer you can roll damage in the same post as long as which attack roll goes with which damage is clear.

[SuperCracker]

Elric's Lance: [roll0]
Warhorse: Hooves [roll1] [roll2] and Bite [roll3]

[Zaydos]

Elric's lance darts forth striking a deep gash across the side of the orc's body, puncturing its scale mail. It bellows in pain mixed with rage, ready to go on fighting.

His horse rears and brings its iron-clad hooves down upon the head of one of the already injured orcs. After two kicks the orc falls to the ground, even as the horse bites it. That is one orc who will breath no more.

OOC: Okay you didn't need to confirm the crit, it didn't matter.

[SuperCracker]

(My lance attack was against one of the other injured orcs, actually [or so I thought].)

[Zaydos]

The injured orcs were J1 and J3, it can be changed to kill of J1 if you want.

[SuperCracker]

(Yeah, will change that.)

[Zaydos]

(Yeah, will change that.)

So that's two orcs down and none injured :smallsmile: Actually a better position for the orcs most likely :smallsmile:

[shiverman]

Solomon will make the orc in L3 is dodge target,
and I'll make a trip attack against L2

Trip: [roll0]
Strength+improved Trip check: [roll1]
Follow up attack if trip succeeds:[roll2]

[Zaydos]

Solomon sweeps the leg out from under one of the orcs surrounding him and then brings his scythe down upon it.

OOC: You might as well just throw the damage roll in the initial post, if it misses it can be ignored if it hits it speeds things up.

[Kaosubaloo]

I will move up beside Willowbreeze and wait for an orc to come within range (since someone killed the 1 orc I could reach).

[Zaydos]

Updated Map:

Key (don't worry not everything will be in deep woods):
t = small tree, or peripheral of large tree: difficult terrain, grants cover
b = bush: difficult terrain, grants concealment
T = large tree: impassable (fills entire square), grants total cover
u = undergrowth: difficult terrain
c = clear (normal terrain, no effect)
O = orc
R = man in robes
M = man
E = Elric (and horse)
Rh = Rhana
W = Woden
Wi = Willowbreeze
S = Solomon
, = Solomon's dodge target
. = prone

I will make the map 6 by 17
{table]|1|2|3|4|5|6
A|c|u|t|u|b|u|
B|u|b|u|u|b|t
C|u|c|u|b|u|u
D|t|c|u|u|b|t
E|t|c|b|u|t|T
F|t|c|u|b|t|t
G|c|c|t|u|u|u
H|t|Rh(b)|E(u)|E(b)|t|u
I|W(b)|t|E(u)|E(b)|b|b
J|c|Wi(u)|u|b|t|u
K|b|S(t)|o(u)|u|u|b
L|o(u)|o,(b)|o.(b)|u|b|b
X|u|c|t|c|u|c
N|b|b|u|t|u|b
O|u|c|t|u|b|u
P|c|b|b|R(b)|t|c
Q|M(b)|u|c|M(t)|c|b
[/table]

[shiverman]

Damage: [roll0]

OoC: my bad bro... I'll keep that in mind for next time

[Zaydos]

Solomon's scythe comes down across the stomach of an orc. Its scale mail slashed open as it roars in blood-rage. Had its metal armor not slowed the blow it might have been fatal.

[shiverman]

I think it;s my turn again soo...
Solomon shows no mercy, as he brings his scythe up over his head, and slams it downward once more power attacking the orc.

Power Attack (taking off -4 recieved for prone): [roll0]
If hit: [roll1]

Edit: My bad I thought everyone already went :smallredface:

[Zaydos]

I think it;s my turn again soo...
Solomon shows no mercy, as he brings his scythe up over his head, and slams it downward once more power attacking the orc.

Power Attack (taking off -4 recieved for prone): [roll0]
If hit: [roll1]

Umm 2 PCs and all the enemies still have to go...

[Zaydos]

Speaking of which... a little bump in case it got lost along the way.

[Sir_Chivalry]

Willowbreeze aids his closest ally

Aid another to give +2 to attack:[roll0]

[Rannil]

Move to K3, attack Orc K4

Attack: [roll0] Damage: [roll1]

[Zaydos]

@Rannil: Do you mean J3 to attack the orc standing in K3?

An orc falls to Rhana's warmace, its head crushed by the impact. Of the three remaining orcs, one stands (provoking an AoO from Solomon).

All three orcs attack him. Their axes battering his body.

(L1 deals 18 damage, L2 deals 21 [max] if he's alive and standing, L3 deals 11 damage).

The man in robes takes a step to his left (moves to P3) then raises his (un)holy symbol above his head, said three words of an eldritch prayer to his dark god and it pulses a sickly black. The pulse of darkness falls over the party, all of which must make Will saves.

The last two chant words of magic and fire bolts of force at Woden and Elric respectively again (7 damage each).

Updated Map:

Key (don't worry not everything will be in deep woods):
t = small tree, or peripheral of large tree: difficult terrain, grants cover
b = bush: difficult terrain, grants concealment
T = large tree: impassable (fills entire square), grants total cover
u = undergrowth: difficult terrain
c = clear (normal terrain, no effect)
O = orc
R = man in robes
M = man
E = Elric (and horse)
Rh = Rhana
W = Woden
Wi = Willowbreeze
S = Solomon
, = Solomon's dodge target
. = prone

I will make the map 6 by 17
{table]|1|2|3|4|5|6
A|c|u|t|u|b|u|
B|u|b|u|u|b|t
C|u|c|u|b|u|u
D|t|c|u|u|b|t
E|t|c|b|u|t|T
F|t|c|u|b|t|t
G|c|c|t|u|u|u
H|t|b|E(u)|E(b)|t|u
I|W(b)|t|E(u)|E(b)|b|b
J|c|Wi(u)|u|b|t|u
K|b|S(t)|Rh(u)|u|u|b
L|o(u)|o.(b)|o,(b)|u|b|b
X|u|c|t|c|u|c
N|b|b|u|t|u|b
O|u|c|t|u|b|u
P|c|b|R(b)|b|t|c
Q|M(b)|u|c|M(t)|c|b
[/table]

Edit: As a note, if Solomon hits the orc as it stands he's still standing having taken 29 damage; if he misses he's unconscious and at negatives. May the Force be with you.

Thankfully the party ought to be able to take out the rest of the orcs this round, leaving only the pesky magic missile spammers and the man in robes.

[Kaosubaloo]

Will save:

[roll0]


I will advance to K1 and attack the orc directly in front of me, unless it was the orc that provoked an attack of opportunity (assuming said attack hit), in which case I will target the orc beside it instead.

Also, as a reminder, assuming Solomon stays conscious, we are considered to be flanking 2 out of 3 orcs, with Rhana also getting a flanking bonus against the middle orc.

In any case, I am attacking with Insightful strike.

Attack Roll and damage

[roll1]

Damage (Con)
[roll2]

[SuperCracker]

Will Save
[roll0]

Sir Elric bares his fangs at the mages casting force bolts at him. He turns his crimson gaze upon the lone uninjured orc, and makes eye contact with him. "Bow to my will, savage! Attack my foes!" Using his gaze he attempts to overwhelm the orc's mind. Charm gaze. DC 17 will save.

(Not sure which orc it is, but I'll also move to the side a bit and advance forward as much as possible in a route that doesn't get an AoO. I have 5 squares of movement.)

[Zaydos]

You feel a wave of darkness wash over you, but with a heroic effort of will you shrug it off to move forward. Focusing your mind in the heat of battle you bring your greatsword down upon an orc, cleaving it at its shoulder. It falls to the ground, unconscious.

Edit: You make the save; will add description when you edit in your action.

You shrug off the black magic, feeling its taint wash past you. You gaze locks on the orc's eyes and you feel its will break before you.

[Rannil]

OOC: No I did mean 'I move to K4' and 'attack the orc in K3'. I do believe I make a five foot step somewhere to make it fit.

But it doesn't matter. I make a 5-foot step to L4, which could work from either square and launch a full attack on the orc.

Will Save: [roll0]

Warmace 1 Attack: [roll1] Damage: [roll2]
Warmace 2 Attack: [roll3] Damage: [roll4]

[Zaydos]

You can't take a 5-ft step in the same round you take a move action to move.

Relevant rule

You can move 5 feet in any round when you don’t perform any other kind of movement.

Also note that is the just charmed orc so you might not want to full attack it.

And finally updated map:
Updated Map:

Key (don't worry not everything will be in deep woods):
t = small tree, or peripheral of large tree: difficult terrain, grants cover
b = bush: difficult terrain, grants concealment
T = large tree: impassable (fills entire square), grants total cover
u = undergrowth: difficult terrain
c = clear (normal terrain, no effect)
O = orc
R = man in robes
M = man
E = Elric (and horse)
Rh = Rhana
W = Woden
Wi = Willowbreeze
S = Solomon
, = Solomon's dodge target
. = prone

I will make the map 6 by 17
{table]|1|2|3|4|5|6
A|c|u|t|u|b|u|
B|u|b|u|u|b|t
C|u|c|u|b|u|u
D|t|c|u|u|b|t
E|t|c|b|u|t|T
F|t|c|u|b|t|t
G|c|c|t|u|u|u
H|t|b|u|b|t|u
I|(b)|t|u|b|b|b
J|c|Wi(u)|u|b|t|u
K|W(b)|S(t)|u|u|u|b
L|u|o.(b)|o,(b)|Rh(u)|b|b
X|u|c|t|c|u|c
N|b|b|u|t|u|b
O|u|c|t|E(u)|E(b)|u
P|c|b|R(b)|E(b)|E(t)|c
Q|M(b)|u|c|M(t)|c|b
[/table]

Edit: Also can't 5-ft step in difficult terrain.

You can only take a 5-foot-step if your movement isn’t hampered by difficult terrain (see page 148) or darkness

[shiverman]

AoO: [roll0]
Will: [roll1]

Sorry about the delay :S Oh god I hope this thing's dead

[Zaydos]

AoO: [roll0]
Will: [roll1]

Sorry about the delay :S Oh god I hope this thing's dead

That's a failure on the latter and a need for me to check if it's still prone when you make the AoO.

The orc rises, a scythe sweeping down onto it's back. It lets out a scream of pain and rage, as it collapses and its kindred's axes rain upon you. The wave of darkness washes over you, and you can feel your luck turn against you. (-1 to attack rolls and saves versus fear).

[Sir_Chivalry]

Willowbreeze attempts to stem Solomon's wounds

Heal check:[roll0] temporary hit points provided

[Zaydos]

Willowbreeze's attentions do much to stem the tide of battle, at least as far as Solomon's own state is concerned.

OOC: 28 temp hp puts him almost effectively back to full health.

[Zaydos]

The three men see that they are beaten and begin to flee into the woods. Sir Elric you can make an AoO on either the man in the robes or one of the mages, which would you prefer?

The enemies (that survive) each move 30-ft deeper into the woods reaching a clearing.

[SuperCracker]

Sir Elric (And his horse!) attack the mage as he begins to flee, unwilling to allow this villain to run. "Your magic won't help you now, cur! He said as he lanced at him and the horse attacked with a hoof. And, he once again calls out to his charmed orc. "Stop attacking my companions and kill the man in the robes! Now!" Elric gestured towards the enemy in the robes... just to be absolutely clear.

Elric's attack (SMITE EVIL): [roll0]
Horse: [roll1]

Elric Damage (if hit): [roll2]
Horse Damage (if hit): [roll3]

[Zaydos]

The mage dies as Sir Elric's lance skewers his chest.

The mind-befuddled orc rushes towards his former companions but due to his armor dragging him down can't catch up, even if he can match their pace.