[3.5] Barbarian Clan Wars!

[Cardea]

The Plot

http://i939.photobucket.com/albums/ad232/CardeaAfton/Barbar.jpg

Those who be worthy and those who be daft
Try and find the leader's craft
Mind of steel and a persona of cruelty
Those who come before him best bow in true fealty

For he is who shall prune
And for he is who will soon
Make his move upon Oerth

So best ye try hard
And best ye answer your call
Before the Barbarian King
Shall make all fall

The World as Known Thus Far

http://i939.photobucket.com/albums/ad232/CardeaAfton/Barbarian.jpg

1. Zedick River and 2. Lion's Maw
A curiosity in the country of Korick. It is not so much a river as a sequence of waterfalls. The eastern mouth of the river, the Lion's Maw (Named after the formation of the land surrounding the mouth), is much higher than the rest of the land, which for some reason goes down, northwest, in tiered lands. For all accounts, it looks like it was carved out like this, with the river segmenting the small island in half.

The southern side of the river is populated by a large forest, similar to those (sparingly) found in the Grindirscape. The northern side of the river, however, is one large, luscious jungle, not seen anywhere else in the lands outside of The Wilds.

3. Namas Port and 4. The Great Unite
Namas Port is the land of the Shark and Tortoise native Totem Barbarians: The Shilon Clan. There, they hunt and fish, and act as spiritual guardians of the Great Unite.

The Great Unite is a small point of land where the five rivers (Balesh, Shalesh, Phalesh, Dalesh and Yjalesh) meet. There stand the Temple of Morphros, the legendary and, to some, mythical being to sculpted the land of Korick

5. The Meeting
No Clan holds this area, at the first split of the River Gaholosh, as it is used as a sort of meeting land for all the Clans. There, the heads of each Clan will meet once a year, more if needed, to discuss all things of their clan. Defenses, culture, war trophies and talk of trade.

6. and 7. The Wilds
This stretch of land is perhaps the gem of all of Korick. In this part of the island, there rests only a jungle that is similar to the land directly south of the Zedick river, except that in this land there is primal magic present. Animals are stronger and faster, some plants have their own mind, and even strange beings, not belonging to any clan, lay here.

8. Gryphonstead
A small town that is rapidly growing from the neighboring kingdom of Skyreach is investing into. Population is around four hundred. Its defenses outweigh its population.

9. Arrowsbreath
A growing city that the neighboring kingdom of Skyreach is using as a foothold in the land of Korick. Population is around 3,200. Its defenses consist primarily of archers and defensive Mages.

10. Dragon's Claw
Named by the Tribes that make Korick their home. Inhabited mostly by Stonefolk who keep to themselves and the local wildlife that make mountains their homes. There lies a path that leads from the very far eastern part of the island to the rest.

11. Ironhammer
An atrocity in the eyes of the Clans. This... 'town' was made after Arrowsbreath and before Gryphonstead. It is a Fishing Town, but facing towards the main island and the islands of Maelis and Kaelis, are large iron walls, made to hold Archers and Spearmen, to hold off any invaders off. Ironic, since they are the ones invading.

12. Maelis and 13. Kaelis
These islands are uninhabited. No Tribe holds them... nor do any try. There aren't any large animals that could prove lethal, nor fauna that could poison and sicken. They are uninhabited because they are believed to be the bodies of dead lesser gods, killed in helping create Korick. Anyone who stands there... feels wrong. Their skin itches, their eyes see shadows that aren't there, they hear things.

14. Grindirscape
Nearly one third of Korick, consisting of grasslands and (primarily) forests. Many clans of forest dwelling animals live here, moving here as the number of Clan Members devoted to specific animals grew in their Tribe.

15. Kasha
While Grindirscape was primarily forests, this section of Korick consists of grasslands, with small patches of forest spread across.

16. The Highlands
The scene of many a brutal conflict amongst the tribes. This stretch of land is mostly barren, with the far north and south still forested.

17. The Nightsong
Seen as a treasure amongst the Island, this Forest holds the Nightsong Elves, a strange clan.

18. The Principle of Four Corners
A small area of land inhabited by the Four Corners tribe, staying so close to the Wilds because of their fascination with magic.

19. The Marsh
A perpetual land of water and mud, this small plot of land holds the Fungotionic Clan.

20. Fire's Reign
A land consisting of half mountain and half wasteland, this area holds the Night Rover clan.


{table=head]Player|Character|Totem

Lyndworm|Niceroth Odad (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheetview.php?sheetid=228503)|Swarm

Dorizzit|Korzalk Dengraznon (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheetview.php?sheetid=228501)|
-

Krazddndfreek|Lylath Korail (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheetview.php?sheetid=228246)|Wolf

YB-Betacrow|Rovalton Zorani (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheetview.php?sheetid=228097)|Salamander

Lix Lorn|Emily Crest (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheetview.php?sheetid=228227)|Air

Admiral Squish|Ahm N'ahm N'ahm (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheetview.php?sheetid=230040)|Earth

DMofDarkness|Faeltoss (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheetview.php?sheetid=228095)|Fungus
[/table]

The Land of Korick! What a sight to behold! What a tragedy to witness! What a feat to recognize! A land of Warfare and Prosperity! A land of Hostility and Unity! A land of Conflict and Reason! The Tribes that inhabit them form their own wars and treaties and trade routes while performing, no, living! Living feats of wonder that would make most mages be brought to shame and most soldiers hang their armor in humility! The elements themselves come to these people's call! The Powers that be cling to them in mysterious way. And sun is rising once again.

OOC
What are you all doing?

OOC Linkage (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?p=9123170#post9123170)

[Dorizzit]

Korzalk Dengraznon

Korzalk walks through the streets of Arrowsbreath, moving with catlike grace to weave through the streets and around other pedestrians. The sight of any figure of Korzalk's height would attract attention, but his identity as a hobgoblin is largely unhelpful in this area, and he is attracting many unusual glances and looks, ranging from unnerved curiosity to overt hostility. He breathes out quietly. The admittedly well-deserved violent reputation of his people often proved to be a hindrance in his dealings with the outside world, even though the people of Nalgrazza, his home, have overcome their blood lust. He tries, mostly successfully, to ignore the stares and not allow them to get to him. He grips the hilt of Kamate in his left hand, taking comfort in the perpetually warm hilt of his ancestral weapon and the familiar weight of his adventuring gear. Finally, he arrives at his destination: the office of one "Captain Gildphis." Cautiously stepping up to the door, Korzalk knocks.

[YB-Betacrow]

Rovalton Zorani

Rovalton wakes up from a night's rest in his tent. He takes some time to don his Breastplate and sheath his sword, then heads out. It's early, and he doesn't see any other clan members around. He does some meditating and then heads out to the heart of the camp. He does some training in the training room, Hitting around sandbags with his sword, or his dagger. He abstains from conversation. Eventually, He finishes up, and heads towards the Clan leader's tent.

[Fable Wright]

Faeltoss

He picked up the earth and sniffed it. It had all of the normal scents of the earth- the rotting willow, the water ambient in the area, and the scent of red clay- but there was also a foreign scent. Kind of like metal, but... older, with a tinge of power in it. There was some kind of animated beast nearby, made of ancient metal and wood, bound by unknown magics. But it was alive. Not some dead wood bound on metal- the wood was alive, and the metal was too. Ancient legends have made mentions of such creatures- ancient guardians, made by the people now gone from the land. They had been bodyguards and warriors. But they had been wiped out with their creators. Is it possible that one was reactivated? He shuddered at the thought. They were, supposedly, some of the most dangerous constructs in the world. He turned to Maetrix, his companion, and thought, Let's keep going. The dinosaur nodded, and they trotted together, following the disturbance through the marshlands. And then they saw it. It was, as he suspected, a living combination of steel and wood, marching across the plains. It had an odd collar made of leather around it's throat. Cautiously getting nearer, Faeltoss whispered to his companion, Stay here. I don't want you getting hurt, if he attacks us. But, if a fight does break out, charge in and help me. Alright?

The beast nodded in comprehension, and waded off to hide in the swamp. Willing the magic of the swamp to go through him, Faeltoss took a form identical to his companion's. Treading quickly across the plains, he approached the amalgamation of wood and steel. Resealing spores of rapport, he communicated with the construct, asking through the spores, speaking directly in the creature's mind, Who are you? Why are you here? Where did you come from?

[Lix Lorn]

Emily

Emily sat atop the very tallest building in all of the Principality, gazing out over the self styled city. The 'cathedral' she perched upon was the tribe's pride and joy, an exercise in construction that they believed bought them one giant leap closer to civilisation. Of course, all it really did was show their willingness to make themselves look advanced.

In all honesty, the reasoning behind the building didn't interest Emily at all. It was tall, and the winds played around her hair and clothes. She'd gone out hunting a little before night, trusting in the twilight to keep her secret, as it always had.

Now, she was waiting. Waiting for what? She wasn't really sure. But it was in the winds. Something was coming.

Although, while the tribe considered themselves masters of divination-a very civilised ability-they were no better at in than anyone.

But her instincts insisted. Something was coming.

[Admiral Squish]

Faeltoss

He picked up the earth and sniffed it. It had all of the normal scents of the earth- the rotting willow, the water ambient in the area, and the scent of red clay- but there was also a foreign scent. Kind of like metal, but... older, with a tinge of power in it. There was some kind of animated beast nearby, made of ancient metal and wood, bound by unknown magics. But it was alive. Not some dead wood bound on metal- the wood was alive, and the metal was too. Ancient legends have made mentions of such creatures- ancient guardians, made by the people now gone from the land. They had been bodyguards and warriors. But they had been wiped out with their creators. Is it possible that one was reactivated? He shuddered at the thought. They were, supposedly, some of the most dangerous constructs in the world. He turned to Maetrix, his companion, and thought, Let's keep going. The dinosaur nodded, and they trotted together, following the disturbance through the marshlands. And then they saw it. It was, as he suspected, a living combination of steel and wood, marching across the plains. It had an odd collar made of leather around it's throat. Cautiously getting nearer, Faeltoss whispered to his companion, Stay here. I don't want you getting hurt, if he attacks us. But, if a fight does break out, charge in and help me. Alright?

The beast nodded in comprehension, and waded off to hide in the swamp. Willing the magic of the swamp to go through him, Faeltoss took a form identical to his companion's. Treading quickly across the plains, he approached the amalgamation of wood and steel. Resealing spores of rapport, he communicated with the construct, asking through the spores, speaking directly in the creature's mind, Who are you? Why are you here? Where did you come from?

Ahm N'Ahm N'Ahm

Ahm trudged slowly across the plains, each heavy step sinking his adamantine feet into the soft soil and crushing plants beneath them. His jet-black plate stuck out sharply against the green grass and blue sky. Every inch of the bulky construct was covered in black plates that bore three-inch spines all over them, each carved delicately with a spiral pattern that ran from tip to base. Over his shoulder, he carried a hammer with a rectangular block of dark metal that was the size of a man's head, covered in dried blood. He made no attempts at subtlety or silence, thudding along with a confident swagger. His green-glowing eyes constantly surveyed the horizon, until they settled upon a large saurian making it's way through the grassy field toward him.

At first, he was unconcerned. Predators never bothered him, he didn't smell like food, and those that did bother him were easy enough to dispatch. But as this one closed, he noticed something strange about it. It didn't... look right. Plus, while most saurian would sneak and stalk or hunt in packs, this one was alone, and it came right from his with no attempt at stealth. His instincts kicked in and he shifted, bringing the hammer off his shoulder and raising it in a ready position, widening his stance. He swung it in a wide arc before him in warning, but the creature paid no heed. As it got close, he began to see it's scales were covered in... growths of some sort. When it got close, it stopped, and a glittering cloud puffed away from it, surrounding him. Perhaps this was how it hunted? He raised his hammer and gestured threateningly, stomping one heavy foot to show he was unharmed. Hopefully the beast would back off. The collar-holder was particular about starting fights.

[Lyndworm]

The man called Roth doesn't move much. His hard, smooth resting place curves away from him on all sides, and sways gently to and fro. It is not hard to stay in place, but still, he doesn't move much. Roth feels his responsibilities, and not for the first time he feels crushed under their weight. He thinks of the children he must teach, and of the refugees he must house.

Drekis marches along obediently. Drekis's six-legged shuffle twists his entire body, but the small creature on his back seems unaffected. Drekis is not tired. Drekis does not sleep. Drekis does not think. Drekis marches to the Meeting.

[Krazddndfreek]

Waking from his trance, he got up to leave his nest in the treetops, and saw the white-haired Lylath swinging jabs and slices at an invisible foe on the ground below. As he stood, Lylath turned and grinned at him. He was going to make his way down the tree, when instead the other elf disappeared, then he heard from behind him, "Morning Lamhar." That would have made him jump if that hadn't already happened to him several times before, at least he hoped he didn't actually jump again. As he turned around to greet him, Lylath laughed, "You flinched again!" He did jump. Again. Lamhar replied, slightly perturbed, "Seriously, you've got to stop doing that, Lylath. You're practically as famous as the Chief." He frowned, "Aww, that's no fun. What's the point of being famous if you can't play around a bit? 'sides, no one's even awake but us." Lamhar retorted, "Wrong again. Taiasah's awake, guess you're sense of smell isn't as great as you thought. On top of that, you'll be leaving today, right? What will the other tribes think of us when they see you, a little prankster with two tiny sticks for weapons?" Lylath laughed like Lamhar was laughing with him, "Ahh, you worry too much. Why would the Chief send me if he was worried about our image in the first place?" Lamhar opened his mouth to make a retort, and then he realized he didn't have one and that Lylath had a perfectly valid point. "Yeah whatever, you damn weasel of a wolf." Lamhar smiled back finally, it was hard to resist his infectious smile.

The village came alive within the hour, and preparations for Lylath's departure were being made. A small meeting would be held in the Chieftain's cabin, including Lylath himself and several of the clan's leaders. It would probably be for a blessing as an agent of the clan, not the son of the leader. But he wouldn't have it any other way.

[Cardea]

DM Bump.
My creative juices got burned out a little bit, but we're coming back fresh tomorrow.

I'm keeping this alive.

[Cardea]

Dorizzit
Your hand goes through the door, and the door disappears. In the room, you see a Dwarf standing on a desk, working on what appears to be a... giant crossbow. It has handles for someone to grasp, yet it doesn't have the wheels as a Ballista. It hangs from the ceiling by ropes, and it looks like several pieces are scattered about the room. He is dressed in dark work clothes; leather apron, dark britches, heavy leather gloves with metal tips, a cotton shirt, and on his head looks like... a monocle, but with multiple lenses.

The room itself, which is far less impressive than the two oddities in the room, is heavily decorated. On the Eastern wall (The far wall), there are heads of various beasts mounted and stuffed. One of them is a dragon, and it looks... old. On the Northern wall, a stand sits, on it a suit of heavy plate armor, engraved with various symbols which resonate with a hum. Its shoulder pauldron is... shaped odd, like a 'U'.

"Korzalk, right?" The Dwarf asks, without looking away from his rig.

Krazddndfreak
A man makes his way amongst tree branches, climbing from to another with relative ease, and he is headed directly to you. His hair is white and his armor looks worn and teared down. He carries on him a bag slung over his shoulder, a large sword, and boots which are shaped in the shape of a Lion's Paw. You also hear a great cry, followed by the sounds of panic, from the ground below, near the Chieftain's Cabin. You hear a voice cry out, "He's dead! He's dead! He's Dead!"

Lyndworm
You march along the wilderness of the Wilds, and it almost seems to come alive around you, and with this 'sentience', a hatred. You do not belong here. You should not be here. You are a curse on this world and the wilderness almost makes you believe it. Trees move in a way to threaten to collapse in your direction, and you could swear you saw eyes looking at you just a moment before. As you step onto the riverbank, you can see the Meeting. High towers with high platforms and high stair cases. You cannot make details out from this far out, but its still impressive; if not for design, but for sheer size.

Admiral Squish + DMofDarkness
A man approaches from behind Ahm, hair of white and skin of bronze. He wears an armor of hide that is cracked and worn from use, and he carries gauntlets which go all the way up to his bicep. "Ahm? You're needed at the Meeting. There have been... deaths, among the tribes. I've been asked to find you amongst others to help solve this catastrophe." He turns to Faeltoss, acknowledging him for the first time. "How fortunate! My journey is... hastened. You, too, are needed Faeltoss."

[Roll a spot check, Admiral.]

Lix Lorn
A man is at your right, and he is laying down, with his arms crossed behind his head, working as a makeshift pillow. His hair is white and he looks attractive enough. He wears armor that appears cracked and worn, and he carries nothing else but a satchel and a cloak that looks as if it was made of eagle feathers. He is looking at you with patience, and you slowly begin to realize he was there before you were, and he was there without you noticing. "Emily Crest of the Four Corners?" His words come out smooth as silk and you can't help but trust him.

YB-Betacrow
Inside the tent, you see your Chief sitting down and talking with a white-haired youth, wearing a suit of hide armor that looks cracked and worn. He looks tired and worn out, but he talks enthusiastically with him, showing your Chief various maps. When you walk further in, the Chief turns towards you and beckons you in. A large fire lies the center of the 'room', and it smokes what looks like a large beast. "Come here, quick, I have some... news... for you, Nice."

[Krazddndfreek]

Krazddndfreek
A man makes his way amongst tree branches, climbing from to another with relative ease, and he is headed directly to you. His hair is white and his armor looks worn and teared down. He carries on him a bag slung over his shoulder, a large sword, and boots which are shaped in the shape of a Lion's Paw. You also hear a great cry, followed by the sounds of panic, from the ground below, near the Chieftain's Cabin. You hear a voice cry out, "He's dead! He's dead! He's Dead!"


Lylath quickly glances at the messenger, then back again to his childhood friend. They both knew that he and his father shared no love, but it still brought worry and horror to their faces. As soon as they tore their eyes away from each other, they both made a mad dash for the Chief's home. "What in the bleeding Nine Hells could have done that?" "Whatever it is, it sure as hell better pray that it's faster than me!" Scouring the air for unfamiliar scents, he makes his way to the other tree running on rope bridges and thick branches. Lamhar speeding in tandem. They enter the cabin as quickly as possible, but only their eyes could confirm their worst fears.

[Dorizzit]

Korzalk Dengraznon

Korzalk steps forward tentatively. He looks around at the room in curiosity, viewing the numerous hunting trophies with respect. He glances at the armor as well, but it does not hold his interest. His people respected strength and skill, which the trophies represented, but Korzalk has little knowledge of or interest in heavy armor. Finally, his attention fixes on the massive crossbow at the center of the room. He analyzes it, his keen eyes absorbing every detail visible to him. Despite this, he is still somewhat confounded by it. He quickly turns his attention back to the dwarf, and nods.

"That is correct."

[Lix Lorn]

Emily was startled to say the least. How... how could anyone get here without flying?
"I... yeah, that's me..." she said, her voice confused and uncertain.

[YB-Betacrow]

Rovalton steps in further and goes to take a seat. He greets the stranger with a quick glance, and then turns and looks around the room. "Hello Chief, I just got done with morning's training. I see we have a visitor. So, tell me what's up, don't spare any details." Then he turns and looks at the peculiar fire. "And while you're at it, what's with this fire?" he adds.

[Fable Wright]

Seeing a biological creature, he released another cloud of spores, and used them to ask the man, What happened? Where is the meeting? And, after you explain that, please ask the... thing to get on my companion. We move alot faster than him, after all. While saying his, he mentally prods Maetrix to come out.

[Lyndworm]

Seeing the Meeting, Roth spins around Drekis's back. Now in a more traditional position on the great beetle, the man gently guides it to their destination.

[Cardea]

Krazddndfreak
In the middle of the cabin lies a body, face down in a pool of blood and... something else. While the blood is a dark red, and partially dry... the something else is green and still moist and glistening. The back wall is broken and in pieces, and the edges of the opening are covered in the green liquid as well, dripping onto the floor. Different bits of clothing and bits of animal are strewn about the room, and it looks like there was a struggle. You know who the body was without having to flip it face up. Its the Chieftain.

Dorizzit
The Dwarf looks away from the crossbow, and steps down from the desk, settling down on a seat. It creaks under his weight, and he sighs as he gets a chance to rest. He smiles. "Heard a lot of 'gud things a 'bout 'cha from 'yer higher-ups. Lots of 'gud things. And hopefully, they be standin' up to 'yer current mission." He opens up a drawer of the desk, and produces a map, large and old, and lays it down on the desk. "How much do 'ye know 'bout the Old Tribes o' the land?"

Lix Lorn
He smiles, and stands up. He steps down to the floor, not hopping, but stepping down in the air down to your level. "There's a... summoning of the Chieftains and their guard to Meeting." He produces a piece of parchment from his satchel, and holds it out to you. "There have been murders amongst the Clans, and... it must be settled."

YB-Betacrow
"The fire is just because of our guest. His presence... distorts, it?" He says, glancing over to the man beside him. He nods simply without saying a word. "Well, it seems that there have been... ah... murders in large numbers amongst the clans and... well... Meeting has been called. I've been summoned, and I'm taking you with me as a... ahm... guard. Get what you need."

DMofDarkness
Your mind reels back in pain, the spores seemingly 'screaming' as they move away from him in escape. Before they run away, you can see... a disturbing image, of a man sitting on a throne, running his hands over a black blade, and singing to himself. You think you see a smile on the young man's face, but only for the briefest of a moment. "Ah!" He turns to the Construct. "This is Faeltoss of the Fungotinoc tribe. He... I don't think he can talk while his form is not his own, but... he is trying to talk. With you. So... you... you could put the Hammer down..." He, again, looks like he's smiling, a wicked evil grin, for the briefest of a moment. He produces from his person two scrolls, one he holds out to Ahm, and the other to you.

Lyndworm
The river stream is calming to the ears and the smells of the jungle is exotic like usual. The wind plays on the tree tops, and animals run across the ground and fly across the sky. Its peaceful and... it almost mocks the current situation of the tribes.

[Dorizzit]

Korzalk Dengraznon

Korzalk nods humbly at the second hand praise.

"I have been fortunate and well trained. I will do my best to see this mission completed."

As Gildphis pulls the map out and lays it on the table, Korzalk advances until he is next to the desk. He bends over the map, studying it thoroughly.

"My information is limited. They are at a primitive level of technology if I remember correctly. There are many different tribes, each with its own values and territories. And...each one reveres a totem, yes?"

[Krazddndfreek]

Lylath stared at the dead body inching toward it with wide eyes. Even though he knew he'd find his father's face beneath all the blood, he had to see it for himself. Lamhar found the whole scene revolting, and tilted his head in reverence and respect for their fallen leader. Lylath turned the body over and tremulously whispered through gritted teeth and tightly shut eyes, "Oh gods." He cried with tears streaming down his face, "Why? Who could have done this? Why didn't the sentries notice? No, If I had only been faster, more alert-" Lamhar interrupted, "Don't say that Lylath, it's not you're fault. Somehow, whatever it was, got away. Don't blame yourself for his death." Lylath replied, "No, it's not getting away, I can still smell it, and I'm going to find it." Lylath leaps out through the broken wall, and tries to follow the scent.

[Lix Lorn]

"...murders?" she said, shocked. "And they want... me to come? Uh."

She fidgeted slightly, and took the proffered parchment, opening it to read.

[YB-Betacrow]

"Murders you say?...Certainly my department if you're looking for a guard. I'll abstain from any more questions." Rovalton says. He stays in the room for a little longer, not saying anything but trying to observe the guest. Finally, he leaves. He goes back to his own tent, grabs his bag and stuff, and heads back to the main tent. "Ready to go sir." He calls into the tent.

[Cardea]

GM
I'M GONNA STOP CARING IF EVERYONE POSTS. I'M JUST GONNA POST WHEN PEOPLE DO NOW. SORRY FOR DELAYS.

YB-Betacrow
He looks at you, smiling his usual cheerful grin. The guest is no longer, and he is holding a bag towards you, motioning for you to carry it. "Come then, we have much walking to do."

Lix Lorn
The parchment is in Common, and it lists an account of different murders amongst the tribes. So far, the lowest toll is 344, and it belongs to the Yar'Gul tribe, far to the East; a tribe consisting of anyone who does not belong to any other clan, with Barbarians of a menagerie of totems. It lists a time of the day that the Meeting is to be held, and it lists the names of all the Leaders to be summoned, and asks that they bring their own guards if they desire.

After reading the parchment, the young man is no longer there.

Krazddndfreak
You jump out of the hole in the wall, and your sense of smell picks up on... nothing. There isn't any disturbance in the air, nor is there any sign of something crashing its way through the forest.

A voice behind you calls out; "I'm sorry for your loss, but I must speak with you."

Dorizzit
"Well, there be the trick." The Dwarf says, scrunching his face. "Not one clan only has one totem. Usually they only have two, three at the maximum. The exception bein' the Yar'Gul tribe, which is just monstrous in its size. It be comprised of what me and you would called 'Miscellaneous'." At this, he makes air quotes. "One of the spiritual leaders was sensed sendin' a beacon out to the island, summonin' the tribes up. One of our Mages heard it too, and well, here ye be now."

He gets up, and paces the room, his eyes now on his trophy wall. "See, they don't usually be comin' to kill us under usual circumstance. We mostly keep our defenses in case of a Monster attack, or one of them gets too caught up in their Rage. Well, they be comin' together, under the alert that they be havin' murders in the thousands between the tribes. Now, that don't sit too well with them. And it don't sit too well with us. It ain't far fetched for them to believe we be killin' them, y'understand?"

[Fable Wright]

<<Faeltoss is waiting for the messenger to deliver his message to Ahm.>>

[Dorizzit]

Korzalk Dengraznon

Korzalk nods stoically as the dwarf provides him with better clarity about the culture of the tribes and their relationship with their totems. He had known about the beacon and the murders; that, after all, had been the reason he was sent in the first place to this realm. Despite his prior knowledge, it was still concerning. A few murders was likely normal, but in the thousands with no trace of the perpetrator was extremely difficult, requiring massive amounts of resources, power, or both. And if the rage of the united barbarians was ever pointed in the wrong direction...it was not a happy thought. They could easily wipe the foreigners out. After processing for a few moments, Korzalk responds.

"I do. I am to attend this meeting of tribes, then?"

[Cardea]

<<Faeltoss is waiting for the messenger to deliver his message to Ahm.>>

Waiting for him to post again.

[Lix Lorn]

"Hey, thanks for this, it's-" she started, looking up and then stopping with a blink of surprise.
"Uh. Okay..." she said, confused, and started to descend from the tower.

[YB-Betacrow]

Rovalton grabs the bag from him, and starts following the leader. "Now that we're out here without Mr. Bonfire, can you tell me a little more about what's going on? Do you know what's going on or why we're doing this? Were you holding back on me in there?" Rovalton questions him furiously as he begins the walk.

[Krazddndfreek]

Krazddndfreak
You jump out of the hole in the wall, and your sense of smell picks up on... nothing. There isn't any disturbance in the air, nor is there any sign of something crashing its way through the forest.

A voice behind you calls out; "I'm sorry for your loss, but I must speak with you."


Lylath was just about to let out a roar of despair when he heard something behind him. He turned quickly and growled at the owner of the voice with some surprise, "Who are you? What are you doing here?" He puts his hands near his knives in case the newcomer is a foe.

[Cardea]

DM ANNOUNCEMENT
Admiral Squish had some things going on IRL, and as I was waiting for him, the campaign has been sluggish. Now that he has returned, this rule will go into place.

Post once a day. If I see you online and you haven't posted, I will get testy.

If you have a reason for not posting this fast, send me a message, and we'll talk.

If you have lost interest, say so now, and voting will go up to see if we will replace you with someone else.

Otherwise, Game is officially back on, once Squish posts.

[Admiral Squish]

Ahm N'Ahm N'Ahm

Ahm's expressionless face betrayed nothing as the strange man appeared and spoke to him, his cold green eyes surveying the man. Slowly, he lowered the hammer's head, grasping the scroll the man held out with one hand, his eyes remaining on the strange man. He looked between the man and the strange, growth-covered saurian briefly. "I don't find it surprising that my name is known, but I am curious as to why I am being invited to some sort of gathering. I can't even begin to fake an interest in the politics of you meat-bags." He said in a metallic voice, unfurling the proffered scroll to examine it.

[Fable Wright]

Struggling to unfurl his scroll with his primitive phalanges, Faeltoss manages to finally open it, and then peruse the content.

[Cardea]

Dorizzit
"Knew ye' were sent 'fer a reason. Yes. Yer' goin' to be goin' to the meetin', and tryin' to settle us out of this affair, keepin' us on peaceable terms with them, got that?" He turns away from his trophy wall, and glares at you. "We don't be needin' any trouble from them. We be havin' enough trouble with our two other settlements."

He strides over, closer to a waddle than an actual stride, and opens up the top of his desk, withdrawing from it a stretch of cloth, which covers up something hefty, judging from the weight of the object. "Take this with ye, lad. Show this cloth to the dockmaster, and he be takin' you to Ironhammer, and from there ye'll be goin' up river through the Wilds, to the Meetin'."

He steps closer to you, and stands only a few feet from you. You can see concern in his eyes. "Do not be openin' this blade lad. Do not show it to anyone but the Dockmaster. Do not be talkin' about it. Do not be touchin' it if ye can avoid it. Just take it with ye to the Meetin', and reveal it there, ye' understand?"

Lix Lorn
You travel amongst the Wild, up river, following a path that isn't taken all that often. The jungle surrounding you is vibrant and breathing, and the river beside you flows easy. You shift your bag and walk alone alongside the water, breathing in the serenity.

Roll a Spot and Listen check.

DMoD and Admiral Squish
The scroll shows pictures of the island, and shows different symbols for each clan. Next to each one there is a string of symbols. The most common ones are 'I', 'V', and 'O'. Looking at a key in the corner of the map, you realize that they're referring to death tolls. With the 'I' representing one, the 'V' representing twenty, and the 'O' representing one hundred.

"Well, you see, Great Ahm; you are viewed as a major power on the island, and as such we seek your view and power on this catastrophe. You hold your own, and with no Clan to aid you. That earns you recognition beyond any single Clan Leader." The man says matter-of-factly. "Thus, you are requested to come."

Roll a Sense Motive check.

Krazddndfreak
Behind you is that same man you saw earlier, that was swinging from branch to branch. He holds a scroll, and looks haggard and worn. "You and your Cla-, no, I'm sorry. You're presence is requested at the Meeting. It relates to, well, your... your Clan Leader's death."

YB-Betacrow
He doesn't answer your question as you walk. Instead, he begins humming, and sways alongside in rhythm to the tune. Its low and haunting, and to a small degree disturbing. "There have been deaths amongst the clans. Many, many deaths."

Lyndworm
Roll a Spot and Listen check.

[Lix Lorn]

Emily walked along, enjoying the environment.

[roll0]
[roll1]

[Krazddndfreek]

Krazddndfreak
Behind you is that same man you saw earlier, that was swinging from branch to branch. He holds a scroll, and looks haggard and worn. "You and your Cla-, no, I'm sorry. You're presence is requested at the Meeting. It relates to, well, your... your Clan Leader's death."

Caution and anger wrinkle his face as he asks, "What? Why him? How could you know he was going to die?" And after a moment, he calls, "Why is my presence required for the Meeting?" A voice joins him from behind, "Well, you are no doubt our strongest warrior. It only makes sense you take the Chief's place. Plus, you're his son. But back to his first question man, how does this relate to the Chief?"

[Dorizzit]

Korzalk Dengraznon

Korzalk nods gravely as the dwarf impresses on him the importance of his mission, a largely unnecessary gesture. Even if it had been something small, which this certainly was not, Korzalk still would have put his utmost focus into the mission since it was his first. Finally, he nodded and accepted the cloth weighted object.

"I understand."

He will listen to anything else the dwarf has to say, then go find the harbor master.

[Admiral Squish]

"Well, glad to hear you humans know who you're dealing with, at least." He commented, smugly. "I guess I could show up for a while if you meatlings are gonna go through all this just to get me to come." He replied, shrugging as he re-furled the scroll. "Where's this meeting going down, and when?"

[YB-Betacrow]

"Are you okay sir? You already said that. Are you hiding anything from me?" Rovalton seems leery of his leader now.

[Fable Wright]

Faeltoss, after looking at the map, tele-empathetically calls his companion. As the dinosaur bounds out to where the human, his master, and the construct are gathered, Faeltoss speaks to the human. Tell the construct to get on the approaching dinosaur. Now, please.

[Cardea]

Dorizzit
You leave his office, and can hear him working once again on the oversized crossbow. You wander through the town, and the blade through the cloth seems to put people on edge when around you. You make it to the Harbor, and meet the Dockmaster; a man named Scilly. He takes you on his boat, and you travel for several hours a hundred or so meters away from the shore as you go to your destination. At the end of the trip, you are dropped off in what you assume is the southern end of The Wilds. You can see, far off in the distance to the North, a large rise of stone. You head towards there.

[Roll a Spot check if you make a DC 15, you spot Lix Lorn.]

Lix Lorn
[wat]

You continue along your travel, walking north towards The Meeting.

DMoD and Admiral Squish
The man turns to Ahm, and bows to him. "Thank you, Great Ahm. It will be held at The Meeting." Upon hearing Faeltoss' demand, he speaks again, without raising himself. "Faeltoss has requested that a dinosaur is soon approaching, and that you should get on it."

Krazddndfreak
"I did not know of his death until just a few moments ago, like you. Many of the Clans have had their own men and women die in this manner, and well... since you are assumed to be next to be Chief, you are requested in place of your Clan Leader."

YB-Betacrow
"Do you remember the tales of the Worg of Norhim?"

[[Roll a Intelligence + Wisdom check.]]

[Fable Wright]

As the messenger speaks, a dinosaur trots up beside Faeltoss, and sits down next to A'hm, looking at him expectantly.

[Dorizzit]

Korzalk

Korzalk remains silent during his trip, generally staying away from other people while he makes his way to the harbor. Judging from the looks he's getting, no one is particularly saddened by this behavior, although he's having a bit of difficulty telling whether this is because of his lineage or the package he carries in his arms. The fact that the two factors compete is a source of distress for him, and he wonders just what it is he has been given.

He is terse but polite to Scilly and his crew, staying off to one side of the ship during the journey and interacting with no one. The ship's crew are content to leave him alone. Live and let live, after all, and a heavily armed hobgoblin was something that most humans would rather not have to deal with.

At the end of the trip, he thanks Scilly and disembarks from the ship. He scans the horizon and the area around himself for a few minutes, acclimating himself to the terrain. When he feels satisfied, he checks that his equipment is in order, and decides to head for a large rock he sees in the distance, the only discernible landmark from his position. He begins moving, pacing himself but still going far faster than most others would be able to through a combination of magic and a lifetime of training.

Several minutes into his trip, Korzalk sees another figure nearby, seemingly with the same destination in mind. Curious, he starts moving towards them cautiously, keeping his arms folded in a traditional sign of peaceful intent among his people.


My Spot bonus is +15, I can't fail.

[Lix Lorn]

She kept walking, staring left and right and up and down at what was around. Somehow, despite looking around, she couldn't see the forest for the trees.
In this case, the forest was a person approaching her.

[YB-Betacrow]

"I can only breifly recall them... Mind refeshing my memory? As well as telling me it's relevance to this...task?" Rovalton walks in pace with his leader, observing the surrounding area.

[Dorizzit]

Korzalk easily closes the gap between himself and the figure, who, it quickly becomes clear, is a woman of martial calling. She isn't dressed or equipped as Korzalk had expected one of the barbarians to be, but he is nothing if not open minded. Once he has gotten close enough to speak without getting close enough to seem a threat, he waits for a few seconds, sees that he isn't being noticed, then coughs over his shoulder, rather loudly. After a few seconds, there is an echo, and impressive accomplishment given the open nature of his surroundings.

[Lix Lorn]

"Ack!" said Emily in shock, jumping, quite literally, a foot in the air.

[Dorizzit]

Korzalk decides that the most tactful response to Emily's impressive jump is silence, and he is careful to keep his amusement from his face. He holds himself loosely, taking an obviously nonthreatening stance.

[Lix Lorn]

She calmed down a little, and greeted him.
"So. Uh. Who are you? My name's Emily."

[Dorizzit]

Well, she wasn't immediately hostile. That was good. Korzalk unfolds his arms and bows at the waist respectfully. He responds after straightening up, using a tone that was somewhere between his eloquent speech used when speaking as a diplomat and his regular talking voice.

"I am Korzalk Dengraznon, an emissary from the nation of Nalgrazza to these lands. I am here to represent the interests of my country and our allies in the events that are occurring, and currently seek the location of the impending meeting."

[Lix Lorn]

She nodded slowly.
"I'm going there too. I come from the tribe of the Four Corners." she explained.

[Dorizzit]

Korzalk nods.

"I see. Shall we proceed together, then?"

[Lix Lorn]

Emily shrugged.
"Might as well." she said.

[Dorizzit]

Korzalk turns back towards their mutual destination.

"Then let's go."

[Lix Lorn]

"Lets." she smiled, following.

[Cardea]

Admiral Squish
[[Everything okay?]]

DMoD
[[Wait a lil more for Squish to respond.]]

YB-Betacrow
He hits you in the back of your head, while shaking his own. "Rovalton, you should know these by heart. They are part of who we are. They are part of what makes us so different from the other tribes of the world." As he steps, you can notice the ground below him seem to fade, as does the ground below you. With each step, it breaks away in panels, until you are walking along what looks like the night sky. "We are different, because we are the only ones who once had a King. Can you remember his name?"

[[Roll another check. DC 15 makes it.]]

Lix Lorn + Dorizzit
You two continue North, and as the serenity of the jungle seems to wash away your thoughts along the banks of the river, it grabs onto Emily's leg. The watery limb seems to strengthen as fish swarm into the arm, and chew at it.

[[COMBAT YO. Roll Initiative. Lix, roll me a Grapple Check, and take 23 points of damage from gorram piranhas. Gestalt Elementals. Gotta love them.]]

Krazddndfreak
[[When you're ready.]]

[Krazddndfreek]

Lylath's usual naive expressions resume in favor of his fearsome anger. Seeming confused, he inquires, "Other clans too? What of their Chiefs?"

((OOC: Sorry, I've been a bit frazzled of late. I think I'm better now though. :smallsmile:))

[Lix Lorn]

Aack!
[roll0]
[roll1]
BAB+Str, right?
Emily gave a yelp of surprise.

[Dorizzit]

Korzalk's eyes widen, and he spins on his heel towards the attacker, reaching for his sword, which is still sheathed.


Initiative: [roll0]

[Cardea]

Korzalk's eyes widen, and he spins on his heel towards the attacker, reaching for his sword, which is still sheathed.


Initiative: [roll0]


Move Action to draw a weapon if your BAB is +1 or higher. Go go go? I'll say you're within range.

[Dorizzit]

Whipping Kamate from its sheath, Korzalk slides into the Punishing Stance of the Iron Heart school with a single step, which puts him in range of the being attack Emily. Grasping the First Sword in both hands, Korzalk brings it down heavily towards the arm sprouting from the water.


Draw Kamate. (Move)
Initiate Punishing Stance. (Swift)
Attack the...thing. (Standard)
Attack: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]

[Lix Lorn]

With a blast of wind, Emily pushes herself away from the creature, before forming two crackling auras of frost, and blasting them towards the strange creature, as an aura of wind surrounds her.

Zephyr Motion, 1/round 15ft movement as free action. Away from the enemy!
Activate Windborne Frenzy as free action. (+2 to ranged attack and damge rolls, +2 to AC and reflex saves, duration five rounds.
Eldritch Blast Full Attack. Two Hellrime Spears. +1 to attack and damage due to PBS.
[roll0]
[roll1]
[roll2]
[roll3]

For each hit, DC19 fort save or -2 Dex.

[YB-Betacrow]

Rovalton notices the odd appearance of the ground and lets out a confused sigh. "Of course I remember his name, it was Zedorick."

[Cardea]

YB-Betacrow
"Very good, young one." As you walk, the image of a man in scale mail appears before you two. He looks to be a half-orc, and from his armor hang various skulls and animal bone, along with various smaller weapons. Strapped to his back is a large sword, with a skull of some beast melding the hilt to the blade. "Zedorick the Keeper was the founder of these islands, keeping back all those who dared to take this Island. Do you remember who against?"

[[Same Check, Same DC. If you make it, the correct answer is: The Old Kingdoms of Humans.]]

Lix Lorn + Dorizzit
[[Its not a thing, its a Piranha Elemental.]]

Korzalk's swing cleaves the arm, slicing it in half, as Emily jumps away from its grasp. Her two ice attacks hit the remainder of the arm, and it turns to ice, and falls. After a few moments, more arms sprout from the river, and slam into the ground. You can hear a loud groaning sound, and you realize that its pulling itself out of the water.

[[Lix, take 16 points of damage from the Piranhas still biting your leg.]]

Krazddndfreak
"Their Chiefs, for the most part, are fine; members of all Tribes have been attacked, and well... it is the unfortunate case that your Chief was killed. I am so very, very sorry for your loss."

[Fable Wright]

Faeltoss watches in curiosity as the construct seems to begin to... shut down, for lack of a better word, after the man mentioned the word "Dinosaur". After waiting seemingly forever for the construct to reactivate, Faeltoss begins to jog over to the clan meeting place.

[Dorizzit]

Korzalk Dengraznon

Korzalk pauses to assess his options as the Piranha Elemental begins to pull itself out of the water. It was definitely dangerous, and judging by the piranhas still clinging to Emily it was composed of both water and fish. All manners of strange beings occupied these lands. Using his years of combat experience to come to a conclusion, Korzalk tenses and leaps backwards, clearing fifteen feet in a single, easy bound. Then he waits.


[Its not a thing, its a Piranha Elemental.]

What.

Anyway, moving backwards fifteen feet with a jump check, which I don't need to make because I can't fail it.

[Admiral Squish]

Ahm looks curiously at the dinosaur that approaches, apparently trying to figure out exactly how one was supposed to ride the beast, before awkwardly stepping over the creature's scaled back and trying to settle over it's center of gravity, clearly not entirely all that accustomed with the idea of riding.

[Cardea]

What.

You heard me. Go ahead and sig that, but you heard me.

[Fable Wright]

Relieved that the construct was actually working, Faeltoss leads his companion (and the companion's rider) to the meeting place, taking routes along rivers and the forest's edge as often as possible. Natural places felt more comfortable to Faeltoss; especially where 2 worlds, like the plains and the forest, interact.

[Lix Lorn]

Emily gives a yelp of pain, reaching down, trying to tear the piranhas from her leg.

[YB-Betacrow]

"Zedorick, the great hero? He was the one who protected this land from the Old Kingdoms of Humans." Rovalton stares inquisitively at the image before him. He is unsure of whether this and the rest of the area is an illusion or reality.

[Admiral Squish]

Ahm balances awkwardly on the dinosaur as it strides along, trying not to puncture the fragile flesh-thing with his spikes while simultaneously trying not to fall off.

[Cardea]

DMoD + Admiral Squish
You are once again reminded of the beauty of the Island. As you leave the jungle behind you, the landscape is breath-taking. To your right, for you don't know how far, stretches one part of the grasslands, until you see the ocean past it, and in the very far distance, the Great Unite, and slightly to the left, the Meeting. To your left, the Highlands, still as breath-taking as it is disturbing. You change directions, and start heading directly towards the Meeting.

[[Listen Check DC of 23 to hear a stampede nearby.]]
Lix Lorn + Dorizzit
As Emily struggles to tear the fish away from her leg, and as Korzalk leaps away, the arms pull a large.... thing, out of the water. It is large, and glaring at you. It has a mouth made out of jagged stones, and eyes made out of ice. Its shape is elongated and elliptical, and inside you can see hundreds of piranhas swimming inside it. You realize: its in the shape of a giant piranha, except its made out of Ice, and it has two dozen arms sprouting from its body, keeping it upright, and moving.
YB-Betacrow
"Correct again," he says, taking in a heavy sigh. "What you were never told, however, was how he successfully pushed them back." The image changes, and it shows an Island. It zooms into it, near the middle of its lands, and there you can see a single being attacking a platoon of men. With one hand it swings a sword, and with the other it rends and tears at flesh; and what flesh it does take, is consumed by the being's heavy-set jaw, which has a set of teeth akin to a sharks. "He did it through an Ancient Practice, lost to us. A dark one, which no Tribe allows their young to learn anymore."

[Dorizzit]

Korzalk Dengraznon

Korzalk recoils in surprise as the Elemental reveals its true shape, hauling its bulk from the thick river waters.

What a strange land this is. In all of my years I have never seen anything like this monster. I hope Emily can handle herself.

The Piranhas swimming within, if Emily was any indication, would attempt to retaliate at any assault. Regardless, though, Korzalk's only real means of fighting is close quarters combat. Not ideal against this opponent, but Korzalk is a hardened warrior and he hesitates little. A few fish, no matter how vicious, are not enough to deter him from defending himself. Setting himself fully into the Punishing Stance, the Iron Tiger crouches and then hurls himself forward, taking another titanic leap and using the jump to amplify the power of his already mighty blows. Using one of the most advanced techniques known to him, Korzalk lashes out multiple times before he hits the ground, Kamate blurring through the air.


Charging and using the Pouncing Charge Tiger Claw Maneuver to make a full attack, wielding the Kamate Two-handed. Power attacking in conjunction with Leap Attack for five on the first attack and three on the second.
Pouncing Charge: Full round action.

Attack Roll 1: [roll0]
Damage Roll 1: [roll1] + [roll2]

Attack Roll 2: [roll3]
Damage Roll 2: [roll4] + [roll5]

[Lix Lorn]

...have I removed the piranhas? Should I roll something?

[YB-Betacrow]

"Interesting... A banned practice? What is this practice Zedorick used? How did he learn it? Why is it banned? And Could one learn it now?" Rovalton is flustered with questions after seeing the images. His eyes widen, taking in the scene.

[Lix Lorn]

Emily forms two blasts of frosty darkness once more, and launches them at the strange creature, as winds raise her up into the air!

Still in Windborne Frenzy, 4 rounds more.
Use Zephyr Motion to move 15ft up as a free action. Hellrime full attack!

[roll0]
[roll1]
[roll2]
[roll3]

For each hit, DC19 fort save or -2 Dex.

[Admiral Squish]

As he rides along, he suddenly tips his head. Cupping a hand over his mouth, he shouts at the dinosaur leading the ride. "I think I hear something." He calls, feeling slightly foolish talking to an animal.

[Fable Wright]

Faeltoss slows, looking around for obvious signs of danger. Hearing the approaching stampede, he gives a sign to his companion. Dashing across the plains towards the meeting grounds, he sprints all out until he gets there.
Taking the run action with my 60ft move speed. Listen check (probably irrelevant): [roll0]
...I got a natural 20. Why couldn't I get that at some other point when I'm going to need it?