OOTS #923 - The Discussion Thread [Archive] - Giant in the Playground Forums

RaggedAngel

2013-10-09, 12:41 AM

I love how Durkon is just sticking to the side of the dinosaur with his Spider Climb. It's the little details that make this comic so awesome.

EDIT-
Nah, it tripped and then stood up.

I have a feeling it would act like a cat and pretend it was all on purpose.

ComposerSuzuran

2013-10-09, 12:42 AM

I'd probably make some snide or insightful comment here, but I'm too busy cheering. These last few pages have been really heaping on the awesome.

TheTacoNamedGuy

2013-10-09, 12:42 AM

Belkar´s face in the seventh panel of the second page was gold

zimmerwald1915

2013-10-09, 12:42 AM

689
:haley: It involves jumping on it, doesn't it? That's totally going to be a thing with you from now on, I can tell.

923
:roy: That's fine, I have a plan now.

Yes, Haley. Yes it is a thing.

Lordchoculla

2013-10-09, 12:43 AM

New comic is up.

Brilliant, thanks!

EDIT: Oh, gotta love the happy looks on Belkar's and Elan's faces in the last panel. :smallbiggrin:

Blisstake

2013-10-09, 12:44 AM

They don't need no stinking Rift.

HeeJay

2013-10-09, 12:44 AM

:roy: BELKAR! Stop posing for heavy metal album covers and get in here!

Best. Line. EVER!

I laughed so hard it took me a while to actually be able to read the comic to the end. :smallbiggrin:

Grey Watcher

2013-10-09, 12:45 AM

Man, that was an awesome escape sequence to conclude an awesome fight.

Tarquin wasn't kidding when he said this was just serving to make the Order look heroic. :smallbiggrin:

Schism

2013-10-09, 12:45 AM

As far as "unexpected ways for the Order to survive", this is pretty far up there on my personal list. Also, I learned what a tumbling dinosaur looks like today.

Akari Itagami

2013-10-09, 12:46 AM

Was that a tumbling skill on panel 11 for that dino?:smalleek:

EDIT: oops nevermind :smalltongue: more dino action please!

ben-zayb

2013-10-09, 12:46 AM

Oh ma, finally! Bet Tarquin is not in a good mood with all that blunder...

and Elan, buddy, WORD! I like it when others pick up my slack in combat sometimes... Truly relaxing

skim172

2013-10-09, 12:47 AM

YES!

Now, on to San Diego!

/Woops, sorry, Jurassic Park 2 flashbacks. :smallredface:

BlasTech

2013-10-09, 12:47 AM

That. Was. Amazing. :smalleek:

Dandria

2013-10-09, 12:47 AM

And wouldn't the T-rex's larger size mean a human dosage would be LESS effective if V's comment on Pharmaceuticals is correct?

That's the joke.

Quild

2013-10-09, 12:47 AM

Could someone remember me how does Haley fly? Z wands?

Dandria

2013-10-09, 12:48 AM

Could someone remember me how does Haley fly? Z wands?

V cast his last Fly spell on her.

EDIT: Strip #921, sixth panel. You can actually see V using it.

skim172

2013-10-09, 12:48 AM

Could someone remember me how does Haley fly? Z wands?

All you have to do is believe. :smallwink:

Throknor

2013-10-09, 12:49 AM

Heavy metal album, or awesome T-shirt....

Only time will tell.

BriarHobbit

2013-10-09, 12:49 AM

That was awesome! A great escape.

To answer a previously asked question, V cast his only additional fly spell on Haley.

Marlowe

2013-10-09, 12:49 AM

V used his second Fly spell on her.

The MunchKING

2013-10-09, 12:50 AM

That's the joke.

Ah, I thought she was saying she was worried about ODing it.

ben-zayb

2013-10-09, 12:52 AM

Also couldn't durkon go to his gaseous form and fly? I thought I saw malack dominating Belkar while in that form...

Ted The Bug

2013-10-09, 12:52 AM

Like so many of the past few comics, this one left me hoping for a future poster. What I love about OOTS is that no matter how serious or angsty it sometimes gets, it never loses its let's-ride-a-dinosaur-over-an-army spirit.

The_Weirdo

2013-10-09, 12:57 AM

That.

Was.

AWESOME.

Fafnir13

2013-10-09, 12:57 AM

Nice one! I liked how V gave the dino some potions before heading out. Keeps the "rooted in a roleplaying system" feel that I like about the comic. Should also silence the usual naysayers when it comes to whether or not an allosaurus could do the things this one is doing

wickedcoolghost

2013-10-09, 12:57 AM

Woohoo! Very well plotted.

DaOldeWolf

2013-10-09, 12:58 AM

Its good to see Elan share the like of preferring to stay in the background. I also prefer to let the others the stardom. I understand that feeling. :smallsmile:

Also, awesome escape.

DaggerPen

2013-10-09, 12:59 AM

I love how Durkon is just sticking to the side of the dinosaur with his Spider Climb. It's the little details that make this comic so awesome.

I didn't even notice that! He's really getting the hang of these fancy new vampiric powers, isn't he?

Domino Quartz

2013-10-09, 01:01 AM

Oh, yes! More dinosaurian awesomeness!

Everyl

2013-10-09, 01:02 AM

I laughed out loud at least three times reading this strip. "Stop posing for heavy metal album covers," "blocking out all thoughts concerning pharmaceutical dosage specifications," and "I told you dinosaur rides were awesome!!" Great strip.

Also, totally not surprised that Belkar's still alive.

talkamancer

2013-10-09, 01:02 AM

It's true it's true dinosaur rides are awesum !

Michaeler

2013-10-09, 01:04 AM

You see, Belkar?

Mindless violence is all very well, but it can't hold a torch to mindful violence.

MelTorefas

2013-10-09, 01:04 AM

Man, I hate to think what the Ride DC was on panels 11-12. XD

Akari Itagami

2013-10-09, 01:05 AM

Och! potion flask is not good for its stomach :smallbiggrin:

Tvtyrant

2013-10-09, 01:06 AM

This was truly a wonderful strip. Thanks Rich!

t209

2013-10-09, 01:07 AM

That was Awesome!!! After all the hardwork, disappointment with both Avatar Season 2 (dang it group mentality), it paid off

Tundar

2013-10-09, 01:07 AM

Now I've got the voice of Freddy Mercury in my head.
Awesome strip!!

Trenelus

2013-10-09, 01:07 AM

In the 10th panel both dinosaurs are missing their reins.

Awesome escape scene.

Mutant Sheep

2013-10-09, 01:07 AM

Glad the Order came across the red dino. Lets us have the red vs orangish fight and know who to cheer for.:smalltongue:

DINO RIDERS OF THE STICK.:smallbiggrin:

Chaotic Queen

2013-10-09, 01:08 AM

:roy: Belkar, stop posing for heavy metal album covers and get in here!

Not a sentence you hear every day.

Tris

2013-10-09, 01:09 AM

That was Awesome!!! After all the hardwork, disappointment with both Avatar Season 2 (dang it group mentality), it paid off

What are you referring to here?

DougTheHead

2013-10-09, 01:10 AM

Also couldn't durkon go to his gaseous form and fly? I thought I saw malack dominating Belkar while in that form...

They're still in the Windy Canyon. Not the best place to turn into a gas...

Buddey

2013-10-09, 01:12 AM

So so worth the wait. The Belkster is having fun.

And, mister scruffy is clearly no ordinary cat... he has two tails! Or, he could just have the very cat-ish ability of knowing where the camera is at any given moment..

Frzphnx

2013-10-09, 01:12 AM

Sigh.
This whole scenario played out in the manner which I feared (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showpost.php?p=15810009&postcount=370) most. Though I guess it wasn't _that_ trivial.
Wonder what direction they're going geographically.

thatSeniorGuy

2013-10-09, 01:13 AM

I almost thought the escape was too easy, but then I realised that a) Laurin and Miron have already said that they're not helping and b) Tarquin isn't exactly going to be able to catch up to them on foot.

Awesome strip, thanks Giant!

Chaotic Queen

2013-10-09, 01:13 AM

They're still in the Windy Canyon. Not the best place to turn into a gas...

Wait, the Windy Canyon? I thought it was the Windy Canyon!

Trillium

2013-10-09, 01:15 AM

Oh my god, you were so right guys! Belkar totally died a horrible death... not!

HAH! Epic daring escape, epic dinosaur battle action, epic setback for Tarquin!
Giant, you are the best!

EDIT: Happy Allosaurus on bottom-left panel is adorable!

shadowsedge

2013-10-09, 01:19 AM

Now I've got the voice of Freddy Mercury in my head.

Your reference is quite unspecific. Which song do you mean?

show must go on?
I want to break free?
We are the champions?

Metahuman1

2013-10-09, 01:20 AM

...

Is there a way Belkar can make the Allosaurus a second animal companion? Cause that would be amazing!

That said, that was a frigging epic bail out!

zql

2013-10-09, 01:22 AM

In the 10th panel both dinosaurs are missing their reins.

Awesome escape scene.

mr scruffy is also missing in that panel

epic escape

David Argall

2013-10-09, 01:23 AM

Diadem

2013-10-09, 01:24 AM

hamishspence

2013-10-09, 01:25 AM

The party can not be allowed too long of a winning streak, so...
Tarquin will call in his ride, chase down the party, and pretty much bash them all himself. He will then be killed in some freakish way.

Given how close we are to the end of the comic- it wouldn't entirely surprise me if that doesn't happen but instead he lets them flee.

dps

2013-10-09, 01:26 AM

Could someone remember me how does Haley fly? Z wands?

She's learned how to miss the ground.

Commander672

2013-10-09, 01:27 AM

And so the plot thread ends the way it began: With the OOTS bareback riding a huge monster controlled through a halfling with a murder fetish.

And though it was awesome, I find my self looking at the slanted panel lines and thinking back to the early days of the comic when that was status quo.

Michaeler

2013-10-09, 01:27 AM

"Let's go pistachios"

Belkar is not only remembering he's a ranger, he's also remembering he's a gourmet chef.

GrandHighWizard

2013-10-09, 01:27 AM

They should have stomped on Tarquin

Evandar

2013-10-09, 01:29 AM

He has a little known single called 'Dinosaurs Rides Are Awesome'. You probably haven't heard of it.

Quild

2013-10-09, 01:30 AM

V cast his last Fly spell on her.

EDIT: Strip #921, sixth panel. You can actually see V using it.

Oh right, thanks.

All you have to do is believe. :smallwink:

lol, I've actually been watching Disney's Peter Pan and Hook yesterday!

Gift Jeraff

2013-10-09, 01:35 AM

:roy: Open the door, get on the 'saur / Everybody ride the dinosaur

Dracon1us

2013-10-09, 01:40 AM

I can totally see Tarquie eat his hat in frustration :smallamused:

Cizak

2013-10-09, 01:42 AM

I've noticed recently that Durkon doesn't seem phased by anything since he became a vampire. I don't think he's made a single :smalleek: face since he got his free will back. This implication is sad to me. :smallfrown:

The Kind Knido

2013-10-09, 01:43 AM

And then Tarquin gives chase and the Order has their final battle with Tarquin on dinosaur-back.

Please happen.

Trillium

2013-10-09, 01:45 AM

I can totally see Tarquie eat his hat in frustration :smallamused:

Which gonna be tough for him, since his hat is a platemail helm...

ratfox

2013-10-09, 01:50 AM

Yaay! Hooray for dinosaur rides! :smallbiggrin:

Bulldog Psion

2013-10-09, 01:51 AM

And Durkon remains deadpan expressionless throughout.

Quild

2013-10-09, 01:51 AM

Too bad Durkon has the exact same drawing every each panel since he went on the dinosaur.

Gift Jeraff

2013-10-09, 02:08 AM

D'aww, I just noticed that Haley helps her lover get back on the allosaurus, while V helps his/her...acquaintance get back on the allosaurus. :smallredface:

Arcas Corricol

2013-10-09, 02:08 AM

Belkar we stand with you all the way, in sickness, in health, in slaughter, in drunkenness, we christen you now the sexy shoeless dinosaur-riding mook stomping god of war. :D

Crod

2013-10-09, 02:13 AM

Mr. Giant. A t-shirt with belkar posing on the dino... Pleaaaaase. :smallbiggrin:

Sebastian

2013-10-09, 02:14 AM

Oh my god, you were so right guys! Belkar totally died a horrible death... not!

Of course you do understand that with saying that you have jinxed it, right!? :smalltongue:

Gamgee

2013-10-09, 02:17 AM

Fond memories forever. I always wanted to do that since Jurassic Park.

GrandHighWizard

2013-10-09, 02:18 AM

Also, where did Mr. Scruffy come from?

Lemmy

2013-10-09, 02:21 AM

I don't usually post on the comic discussion threads, but...

HOLY ****!!! THAT ALLOSAURUS CHARGE WAS AWESOME!!!

Lordchoculla

2013-10-09, 02:26 AM

Too bad Durkon has the exact same drawing every each panel since he went on the dinosaur.

I regret to say this, but Durkon is dead. Undead, yes, but dead. He does not breathe or have (m-)any emotions. So all he can do is cling on to the tankosaurus - no need to climb around or do stuff that might endanger his ability to escape.

So no facial expressions and no actions fits perfectly well with he status as dead.

Giggling Ghast

2013-10-09, 02:26 AM

On a list of all-time great escapes, I have to say that "On the back of an allosaurus" certainly ranks up there. :smallbiggrin:

KillianHawkeye

2013-10-09, 02:27 AM

I just love Belkar's smile in the last panel!

Also, where did Mr. Scruffy come from?

What do you mean? He's been with Belkar this whole time. If you don't see him, assume he's just off-panel.

Cavenskull

2013-10-09, 02:38 AM

Hopefully this finally puts to rest the idea that the Order of the Stick will escape through the rift, though somehow I doubt it.

Oh, and I predict Belkar is not going to die in the next strip. :smalltongue:

Giggling Ghast

2013-10-09, 02:39 AM

I regret to say this, but Belkar is dead. Undead, yes, but dead. He does not breathe or have (m-)any emotions. So all he can do is cling on to the tankosaurus - no need to climb around or do stuff that might endanger his ability to escape.

So no facial expressions and no actions fits perfectly well with he status as dead.

You mean Durkon, milord. Durkon is dead.

But let's face it, if Durkon's reaction to being stabbed in the beard Belkar or shot full of arrows is "Eh," then his reaction to an allosaurus ride is probably going to be the same.

rodneyAnonymous

2013-10-09, 02:41 AM

I love how Durkon is just sticking to the side of the dinosaur with his Spider Climb.

That's hilarious :)

Akeaka

2013-10-09, 02:42 AM

Given how close we are to the end of the comic- it wouldn't entirely surprise me if that doesn't happen but instead he lets them flee.

We're hardly "Near the end". We've still yet to see Xykon defeated, the last gate found, V's demonic consequences, the restoration of Azure City, The reveal of the thing under the umbrella, Snarl's 'fight', whatever is inside the portal, plus any numerous things that will stumble along in the adventure.

I can see this comic going to 1500 pages, easy.

Cerlis

2013-10-09, 02:42 AM

I realized that not only was V's comment a remark on the fact that the dosage between a medium and huge creature should be different, but also that he's gotten practical about it (in the past we'd have seen a half page rant about how illogical it is.)

factotum

2013-10-09, 02:43 AM

They're still in the Windy Canyon. Not the best place to turn into a gas...

Besides which, a vampire in gaseous form can only travel at 20 feet per round, which would make him much slower than the dinosaur.

I love the way Belkar is petting the dinosaur in the second-to-last panel, though...

Lordchoculla

2013-10-09, 02:44 AM

You mean Durkon, milord. Durkon is dead.

But let's face it, if Durkon's reaction to being stabbed in the beard Belkar or shot full of arrows is "Eh," then his reaction to an allosaurus ride is probably going to be the same.

Yup. Just changed it. I need to wipe egg off my face now :smallbiggrin:

Ramien

2013-10-09, 02:45 AM

Which gonna be tough for him, since his hat is a platemail helm...

Considering he's shown himself to be quite proficient at chewing the scenery when need be, what's a little iron?

Mr. Mask

2013-10-09, 02:46 AM

Am I the only one who noticed that odd red steak sticking out of the dinosaur in the second-to-last panel? What is that?

Leirus

2013-10-09, 02:46 AM

This was... utterly awesome!

When I started reading this comic all these years ago I never ever thought we would get to see dinosaurs battling to death in the middle of a fleeing army!

Tykopulus

2013-10-09, 02:47 AM

Great great great Comic! And finaly Elan gets his - and they where living happy after - Dinoride. :)
Nice breakthrough!

Lettuce

2013-10-09, 02:50 AM

Irenaeus

2013-10-09, 02:50 AM

Awesome! Trample on, great Allosaurus, and take the Order away from the visually-fulfilling-but-oh-so-update-delaying hordes of mooks!

Ramien

2013-10-09, 03:02 AM

Am I the only one who noticed that odd red steak sticking out of the dinosaur in the second-to-last panel? What is that?

That's its arm. It's also more reddish than the rest of the body in the first panel of the actual battle sequence.

Shard

2013-10-09, 03:06 AM

Hate to be "that guy" but isnt there a misspelling of pharmaceutical as "pharmecutical" ?
Seems out of character for V to make such an error, so im assuming it's a typo.

malloyd

2013-10-09, 03:07 AM

Am I the only one who noticed that odd red steak sticking out of the dinosaur in the second-to-last panel? What is that?

It's far arm. Yeah it does seem somewhat oddly colored.

gooddragon1

2013-10-09, 03:29 AM

Ninja Dragon

2013-10-09, 03:32 AM

Is Elan's speech in the last panel a callback to something?

Trillium

2013-10-09, 03:34 AM

Durkula: If you think you're safe at *Dinosaur* Speed, you're wrong.
Roy: He can't catch up to us at *Dinosaur* Speed.
Elan: Yes he can, he's been developing a dinosaur with advanced *Dinosaur* speed capabilities and when he does the only thing that's gonna keep him from destroying us is me so you have to let me talk to him.

Also...
Everybody walk the dinosaur.

Can't triceratops just be roasted by V? Sure, Tarq may have elemental resistance, magic resistance, paladin's saves, ton of HP, plot armour and what not, but 'Tops is just a big lizard. A nice barrage from V would leave the great evul overlord on foot in the middle of the desert =)

Ermete

2013-10-09, 03:43 AM

HandofShadows

2013-10-09, 03:43 AM

So many good one liners on this page.:smallbiggrin::smallbiggrin:

weezaard

2013-10-09, 03:45 AM

Anything with dinosaurs, really.

I'm curious how disappointed Tarquin will be.

Ermete

2013-10-09, 03:47 AM

Hate to be "that guy" but isnt there a misspelling of pharmaceutical as "pharmecutical" ?
Seems out of character for V to make such an error, so im assuming it's a typo.

typo for sure...a small spot in a strip full of awesomeness :smallsmile:

DaggerPen

2013-10-09, 03:54 AM

I love the way Belkar is petting the dinosaur in the second-to-last panel, though...

You mean the third to last? Yeah, that's cute.

St Fan

2013-10-09, 04:02 AM

Now that makes for an awsome climax for this battle royale.

I especially like how the panels in the second page are no rectangular, but angled to focus on all the important actions and make the scene even more dynamic.

My only regret is to not see Tarquin's reaction at this very moment.

Tarquin: OH FER CRYIN' OUT LOUD!
Miron: Calm down, Tarkie. Think about your tension.
Laurin: Yeah, you're not in the young-adult age bracket any more.

Mr. Mask

2013-10-09, 04:06 AM

That's its arm. It's also more reddish than the rest of the body in the first panel of the actual battle sequence.

It's far arm. Yeah it does seem somewhat oddly colored.

I see now that you are both correct. Thanks for explaining that to me so I could understand.

Still... I wonder why that arm is so very red sometimes, but not others (doesn't appear to be related to the fire, since it's red again when the dinosaur is away from the fire).

Joseph_Lavode

2013-10-09, 04:21 AM

Absolutely Beautiful, both artistically and in unadulterated Order awesomeness.

And I would buy those heavy metal albums with no hesitation :smallbiggrin:

Wonder if Tarquin will be more upset or admiring?

warmachine

2013-10-09, 04:23 AM

Blocking all thoughts concerning pharmaceutical dosage specifications. LOL. Mathematics? We don't need no steenking mathematics!

Sc00by

2013-10-09, 04:25 AM

Could someone remember me how does Haley fly? Z wands?

I know this has already been answered many times, but I wanted to get a HHGttG joke in.

She threw herself at the floor, and missed

And on topic: I love this strip. Nice to see the Order starting to really look like high level PCs and crush some stuff!

Yoyoyo

2013-10-09, 04:30 AM

Yes Élan, dinosaur rides are awesome. Totally awesome.

RMS Oceanic

2013-10-09, 04:47 AM

So what are the odds Tarquin just lets this slide? Or does he fly over there and try to finish this himself?

Apricot

2013-10-09, 05:03 AM

What a superb escape. It's so nice to see the Order working well together.

Adeptus

2013-10-09, 05:23 AM

Epic! :)

I can totally see that happening in a RPG session. I also like how the dino with PC:s riding on it has a massive edge on the NPC bearing one.

Dracon1us

2013-10-09, 05:28 AM

Considering he's shown himself to be quite proficient at chewing the scenery when need be, what's a little iron?

you took a prestigiuos class! Scoundrel taught you well!

John Cribati

2013-10-09, 05:28 AM

This is the comic where it finally sunk in for me that Belkar has command over a dinosaur now.

Truly a frightening thought.

Lordchoculla

2013-10-09, 05:29 AM

All right! The heroic escape, as brought to you by Belkar! That's twice in a row he's pretty much saved the order from certain death (this and the coffin trick)

And Elan's right. Dinosaur rides ARE awesome. :smallbiggrin:

Errr... along with V's rise... .and Roys leadership and tactical capabilities... and Durkon's vampire abilities dominating mooks and controlling spikey, and Heley's archery skills killing crossbowmen and Elan's standing up to daddy and the mooks' fear of fighting Elan. But I admit that Belkar has brought the transportation while V brought the fireworks. :smallsmile:

So they all contributed to their apparent escape... they haven't escaped just yet, although "Breaktrough" indicates that we are seeking the end of this exciting battle.

Ridureyu

2013-10-09, 05:34 AM

Trillium

2013-10-09, 05:36 AM

Lordchoculla

2013-10-09, 05:38 AM

Rock'n'roll, I would say!

first, I'm happy that Belkar survived and that they got out from that dead point in such cool way.

I'm wondering which will be the countermove from Tarquin, or even if there will be one, at this point.

Arrrgh! NOW you've done it! Belkar is more at risk now than ever before!

:smallsmile:

Nah. It was indeed a superbly cool way they fought the enemy and got away.

Vikenlugaid

2013-10-09, 05:40 AM

Castamir

2013-10-09, 05:42 AM

We're hardly "Near the end". We've still yet to see Xykon defeated, the last gate found, V's demonic consequences, the restoration of Azure City, The reveal of the thing under the umbrella, Snarl's 'fight', whatever is inside the portal, plus any numerous things that will stumble along in the adventure.

I can see this comic going to 1500 pages, easy.
By Giant's words, there will be two mainline books after this one, no more, no less. Even if the last one turns out to be a phone book.

cheezewizz2000

2013-10-09, 05:53 AM

It is my sincere hope that Belkar has named the Allosaurus "Pistachios", and not just saying "Let's go, pistachios" because it rhymes.

Yes I know if it was his name "pistachios" would be capitalised, but gods damn it if Pistachios isn't the best name for an Allosaurus ever.

Edit: Also, even when Pistachios tripped over, Durkon managed to stay clung in exactly the same position. Spider-climb is a handy supernatural ability, and I had forgotten that Vamps had it until now...

Michaeler

2013-10-09, 05:54 AM

It is my sincere hope that Belkar has named the Allosaurus "Pistachios", and not just saying "Let's go, pistachios" because it rhymes.

He's a gourmet chef telling the Allosaurus to go nuts.

Killer Angel

2013-10-09, 05:58 AM

I totally love Elan's comment 'bout being overshadowed... :smallbiggrin:

Storm_Of_Snow

2013-10-09, 06:03 AM

And wouldn't the T-rex's larger size mean a human dosage would be LESS effective if V's comment on Pharmaceuticals is correct?
The potions Miko gave to Windstriker after her game of "who can tap the lightest" with the MITD weren't less effective - Miko specifically mentions it in the first panel of #375.

:miko: Look, just be happy the dosage on these potions doesn't need to be adjusted for body weight.

Basically, it doesn't matter whether you're a gnome or a half-ogre (or indeed a completely different species), if you drink a potion you get exactly the same effect/ duration of effect, but you also have to consume exactly the same amount.

pennzqwu

2013-10-09, 06:09 AM

I just noticed how awesome Haley looks in the third-to-last panel, with the Breath Mint effect on full power :smallbiggrin:.

EDIT: Did V just save Belkar's life? (fourth-to-last)

StClair

2013-10-09, 06:09 AM

I can totally hear the steam-whistle roar in the third-to-last panel.

Kgw

2013-10-09, 06:18 AM

I think this is the closer I've ever been to a first page...

In any case, I take "Halfing Riding Dinosaurs" name for my Heavy Rock band. :D

Niknokitueu

2013-10-09, 06:22 AM

I know I am a bit late to the party, but way to go, Rich!

Favourite bit:
Belkar: "Which way?"
Roy: "Directly away from Elan's Dad."
(Roy, once again, showing his battle moxy)

Also, gotta love the way you can squeeze emotions into just a few pixels. Like the difference between
Panel 10: Belkar showing savage glee at his Allosaurus attacking the other Allosaurus, and
Panel 13: Belkar showing unbridled joy over riding free.

Who says stick figures lack emotion?

More please!
(Have Fun)
Niknokitueu

Ceilican

2013-10-09, 06:24 AM

Had to comment on two things:

First, the layout. It really worked for page 2. Very much contributed to the epic feel of the escape that still only took one page to accomplish.

Second, the "shot line" in panel 2 of page 2. Just barely noticeable, but it's thicker near Haley and Narrowest at the target; great enhancement to the perspective of the panel.

factotum

2013-10-09, 06:37 AM

By Giant's words, there will be two mainline books after this one, no more, no less. Even if the last one turns out to be a phone book.

Which would make the estimate of 1500 pages probably quite reasonable, if you add where we are now to two more books...

Lossoth

2013-10-09, 06:41 AM

He's a gourmet chef telling the Allosaurus to go nuts.

I thought perhaps it was equivalent to "Let's crack some heads". :smallsmile:

Terrific comic. Worth the wait.

JSSheridan

2013-10-09, 06:48 AM

Thanks Giant!

CoffeeIncluded

2013-10-09, 06:49 AM

Ahahaha, I was so happy to read this this morning. Also, the look of glee on the allosaurus's face at being free was adorable.

littlebum2002

2013-10-09, 06:50 AM

The dinosaur didn't tumble. He tripped, but tried to make it LOOK like a tumble to save face.

Gusion

2013-10-09, 06:56 AM

New comic is up.

Haha, nice Elan. You are always so... Elan.

It made me smile though. So win.

elros

2013-10-09, 06:56 AM

I nominate the creation of a heavy metal band named "Bekstar" with the album cover:
http://www.giantitp.com/comics/oots0922.html

Do they even put pictures on albums any more?

Shale

2013-10-09, 06:57 AM

Okay, I admit it. Maybe, just maybe, they're not heading into the rift.

Anarion

2013-10-09, 07:01 AM

Heh, dinosaur battles. Now I'm always going to wonder if the Giant did this entire storyline just so he could show massive lizards ducking it out in all thei stick figury glory. :smallamused:

I'm glad to see the fight end like this and we'll see what kind of getaway the Order will pull off.

Ghost Nappa

2013-10-09, 07:01 AM

Heavy metal album, or awesome T-shirt....

Only time will tell.

Since I don't foresee the Giant producing a Heavy Metal Album in the future, I wonder if he would give someone permission to use that as an album cover?

Doubt it happening in the near future but I can wonder.

Also, the punchline mad me remember an idea Elan previously had. (http://www.giantitp.com/comics/oots0693.html)

Tircey

2013-10-09, 07:06 AM

One possible result...

The Order escapes, and Tarquin goes home, both trying to explain it from a dramatic standpoint and also working on several possible plans to turn it into his favor.

And then Sabine pops up when he least expects it and has the least amount of anti-level drain technology or weapons. His death is ruled as natural causes, and since he was already ruling secretly behind the scenes, nobody really finds out. Tarquin is disposed of in a thoroughly anticlimactic way, and never gets to leave his mark.

Doubt it for a few reasons.

1) Tarquin is extremely powerful in a physical fight. Sabine would have to attack him to level drain him and I doubt Tarquin leaves himself open, even when sleeping. Unless she somehow gets him helpless first he's kick the absolute bejabbers out of her even with a few level drains. I don't think Sabine would risk banishment at this point in time trying to tangle with Tarquin. I think she'll probably aid the OotS and somehow be present when they deal with tarquin and snag the killing blow that way. I'm sure she'll have a hand in his demise but I don't think it would be her alone doing it.

2) Tarquin knows full well Sabine is still floating around as he was there when she was banished. He might not realize that Sabine and Nale were actually in love but he's not going ot forget a fiend who might have issues with some of his actions.

Kish

2013-10-09, 07:14 AM

2) Tarquin knows full well Sabine is still floating around as he was there when she was banished. He might not realize that Sabine and Nale were actually in love but he's not going ot forget a fiend who might have issues with some of his actions.
He already has. That was the punchline of #914, remember?

One thing is for absolute certain. When Tarquin dies--no matter what kills him--

the board will erupt with screams of, "Nooo! Unrealistic for Tarquin not to plan for that!"

Martok

2013-10-09, 07:15 AM

Wow, that was an awesome battle/escape sequence. Everyone got in some great lines/moments as well!

Also: Loved the happy dinosaur getting petted/praised by Belkar in the third-to-last strip. (You can just hear him saying, "Good boy! Good boy!") D'aww! :smallsmile:

Lord Torath

2013-10-09, 07:16 AM

That.... was awesome!

Thanks, Giant!

pendell

2013-10-09, 07:25 AM

*Whistles cheers stomps madly*

I was expecting them to go into the rift but this will do just as well. BE-AUTIFUL!

I have nothing to complain about . This was a flawless action sequence, perfectly executed, well-written and well-illustrated.

Respectfully,

Brian P.

Turin_19

2013-10-09, 07:30 AM

Amazing!

Now let's see if we have a Triceratops-to-Allosaurus chase scene. =D

rs2excelsior

2013-10-09, 07:35 AM

:roy: Everyone who can't fly, get on the dinosaur. We're punching through.

YES! Most awesome strip in quite a while! Dang near stood up and cheered out loud.

Excellent work, Giant.

Ivrytwr

2013-10-09, 07:35 AM

Awesome! Great escape sequence Giant.
Thanks.
Jurassic Stick!
Wonder if Tarquin is going to keep after Roy ...

Psyren

2013-10-09, 07:44 AM

I love how Durkon is just sticking to the side of the dinosaur with his Spider Climb. It's the little details that make this comic so awesome.

I concur 1000% :smallbiggrin: It's still a D&D comic at heart.

And Elan's line in the first panel was platinum, I tell you.

Lemur Bear

2013-10-09, 07:45 AM

What really got me was that Mr. Scruffy was never dislodged. It was glorious.

WurmD

2013-10-09, 07:53 AM

XD!!! I've never posted in these threads, but this requires it

@Giant: Giant! Thank YOU SO MUCH!! I laughed so hard and can't stop smiling!! And I'm AT WORK :D

Ailowynn

2013-10-09, 07:53 AM

Awwww yeah! Belkar has been pretty awesome doing things recently. Turns out he CAN do something other than hurt people.

Pretty awesome strip.

Silverionmox

2013-10-09, 07:55 AM

All the general's dinosaurs
and all the general's men
couldn't keep the Order
from leaving again.

Trillium

2013-10-09, 07:55 AM

All the general's dinosaurs
and all the general's men
couldn't keep the Order
from leaving again.

Bravo!
I'm stealing this for my sig!

137beth

2013-10-09, 08:01 AM

The internet loves dinosaur rides...
The internet loves cats...

so of course everyone loves a comic where a halfling and his cat jump onto a dinosaur and fight their way through other dinosaurs:smallsmile:

Mastikator

2013-10-09, 08:02 AM

The OotS has a dinosaur now, their odds of being Xykon increased.

Shining Wrath

2013-10-09, 08:05 AM

No sign of the Gate, so "directly away from Elan's dad" didn't pass through it. It appears they are clear of the crater and running free across the desert.

Question for the paleontological set: estimated max speed for Tarquin's triceratops vis-a-vis a laden allosaurus. Do not neglect terrain, as allosaurus paws might grip sand more effectively than a triceratop's pads. :smallsmile: Actually, I think if T wants to pursue, he'll do so using other means, like one of his several flying carpets, or his pteradon, or just convince Laurin to Gate him through.

Nice cooperation from V and Haley as strikers taking down rider / beast pairs. That's how it's done, n00bs. Don't know if V wasted that one lightening bolt on the pale allosaurus, though, as without a rider it might well have just wandered off, or raged. V and Haley did show restraint as the allosaurus cleared the crater, though, and let the crossbowmen flee.

Belkar is busy not being dead. And here I thought he was going to go out in a blaze of glory.

dps

2013-10-09, 08:06 AM

The OotS has a dinosaur now, their odds of being Xykon increased.

You expect the dinosaur to polymorph them into liches? :smallbiggrin:

Anyway, as for Tarquin, if you want him to die anticlimatically, I can totally see him getting so mad at this turn of events that he has a fatal stroke.

DreadArchon

2013-10-09, 08:13 AM

Add me to the list of people who agrees with Elan's initial statement. :smallcool:

Shining Wrath

2013-10-09, 08:14 AM

gerryq

2013-10-09, 08:17 AM

Vinsfeld

2013-10-09, 08:19 AM

On this one, I have always agreed with Elan.

gerryq

2013-10-09, 08:20 AM

So what are the odds Tarquin just lets this slide? Or does he fly over there and try to finish this himself?

Even if he lets them go, there is still the question of Haley's Dad, so a near-future encounter with him is still a possibility.

Or maybe the conflict will be deferred.

bobinchese

2013-10-09, 08:20 AM

Awwww yeah! Belkar has been pretty awesome doing things recently. Turns out he CAN do something other than hurt people.

Pretty awesome strip.

Belkar not hurting people = riding a giant dinosaur through hordes of mooks?

I think the mooks would say differently.

This is just more evidence of Belkar's character development. He still only wants to kill things, but by playing within the rules of the game he gets to kill things more impressively.

Fantastic strip, the best in a while (and the bar has been set pretty high recently).

gerryq

2013-10-09, 08:21 AM

This is the comic where it finally sunk in for me that Belkar has command over a dinosaur now.

Truly a frightening thought.

And if Scruffy had a good influence over him... what will the corresponding effect of the allosaurus be???

Yxylu

2013-10-09, 08:22 AM

I'm glad to see the team back together. Panel 3 is the first time all eight members of the Order have been together since the first panel of 840 (http://www.giantitp.com/comics/oots0840.html). The closest we've come is in panel 2 of 887 (http://www.giantitp.com/comics/oots0887.html), but Blackwing and Mr. Scruffy were absent, and Belkar was dead. Also, it's an illusion.

All told, that's over 1000 panels of splitting the party.

gerryq

2013-10-09, 08:22 AM

Well... A triceratops can beat an allosaurus :smallwink:

I only ever saw them fight in One Million Years BC - how did that end?

bguy

2013-10-09, 08:24 AM

One thing is for absolute certain. When Tarquin dies--no matter what kills him--

the board will erupt with screams of, "Nooo! Unrealistic for Tarquin not to plan for that!"

I think the board's respect for Tarquin's planning capabilities has plunged considerably over the last 20 strips.

happycrow

2013-10-09, 08:25 AM

The allosaur train, gonna ride ride ride ride.... the allosaur train...

I know I'm not the only old person with kids who had this pop into his head.

LadyCygnet

2013-10-09, 08:26 AM

Also...
Everybody walk the dinosaur.

I was really hoping that I wasn't the only one with that song (http://youtu.be/zYKupOsaJmk) mentally playing in the background.

Breccia

2013-10-09, 08:26 AM

When the Order comes together as a team, it just clicks. And NOW they've got 2 tons of muscle and fangs to work with. Heavy metal covers indeed!

Poor Roy. I don't think he understands how unbelievably awesome that turned out to be. Seriously, why the grimace? He's a monster truck that walks like a man (http://www.escapistmagazine.com/videos/view/zero-punctuation/1404-Darksiders). At least Elan gets it.

EDIT: I also have to add how much I like the various soldiers panicking and fleeing in panels 7 and 9. Not just because it's hilarious, but also realistic. Who wouldn't at that point?

Wolv90

2013-10-09, 08:27 AM

689
:haley: It involves jumping on it, doesn't it? That's totally going to be a thing with you from now on, I can tell.

923
:roy: That's fine, I have a plan now.

Yes, Haley. Yes it is a thing.

Excellent call back, I was just reading about the bug raid yesterday.

Plus, I totally called the dino on dino fight! So glad to be right.

Spoomeister

2013-10-09, 08:29 AM

I'm of an age where I frequently think of things in terms of the original Star Wars trilogy, so the entire last page was set, in my head, to the end of the escape from the Sarlaac pit (http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_detailpage&v=q718Wqt_7ks#t=1851).

Shining Wrath

2013-10-09, 08:30 AM

All you have to do is believe. :smallwink:

Pixie dust, 3rd crossbowman to the right, and straight on 'till morning!

Wolv90

2013-10-09, 08:33 AM

Heavy metal album, or awesome T-shirt....

Only time will tell.

Answer, C) Van art Sort of like this. (http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9tvtXEyych8/Tsb1gCdxBzI/AAAAAAAAAKk/NGZQx-YItCQ/s320/trogdor1600_860t.jpg)

Shining Wrath

2013-10-09, 08:39 AM

Am I the only one who noticed that odd red steak sticking out of the dinosaur in the second-to-last panel? What is that?

Left forearm of the dinosaur.

BungleBee

2013-10-09, 08:42 AM

I don't know how I missed it but when did Haley lean to fly?

Shardnax Saerth

2013-10-09, 08:43 AM

What really got me was that Mr. Scruffy was never dislodged. It was glorious.
Scruffy is great, much like these last few strips have been :smallbiggrin:.

Darkohaku

2013-10-09, 08:49 AM

That was just plain awesome. All the Oots in a daring escape through the sand and desert, riding a dinosaur, flying and killing mooks like flies.

What else could a webcomic reader ask? Excellent! :smallbiggrin:

wzeller

2013-10-09, 08:51 AM

I don't know how I missed it but when did Haley lean to fly?

When V cast fly upon her.

Mike Havran

2013-10-09, 08:53 AM

And off into the proverbial sunset they ride. :smallsmile:

My guess is that there's about two more strips to the end of this arc.

Amphiox

2013-10-09, 08:56 AM

Blocking all thoughts concerning pharmaceutical dosage specifications. LOL. Mathematics? We don't need no steenking mathematics!

Pharmaceutical dosage specifications are determined by the laws of chemistry, which in turn are based on the laws of physics.

And we all know which corner arcane magic can tell those laws to sit down and pout in.

But you know what the *real* question is?

What potions buff an allosaur enough to let it one-shot another allosaur with a single bite?

Vinsfeld

2013-10-09, 09:11 AM

Pharmaceutical dosage specifications are determined by the laws of chemistry, which in turn are based on the laws of physics.

And we all know which corner arcane magic can tell those laws to sit down and pout in.

But you know what the *real* question is?

What potions buff an allosaur enough to let it one-shot another allosaur with a single bite?

Actually, V uses a lightning bolt spell on the other allosaur. On panel 5, second page.

Jay R

2013-10-09, 09:11 AM

Elan was right. That dinosaur ride was awesome.

Shale

2013-10-09, 09:11 AM

None. V finished it off with a lightning bolt.

ericgrau

2013-10-09, 09:13 AM

"We're punching through" always turns into a good scene.

whitemane

2013-10-09, 09:17 AM

Blocking all thoughts concerning pharmaceutical dosage specifications. LOL. Mathematics? We don't need no steenking mathematics!

Mathematics and phrmaceutical dosage=science. As V once said, "I am somewhat preoccupied telling the laws of physics to shut-up and sit down."

Now for the more important question... Does this mean that Belkar now has a second animal companion? Will Mr. Scruffy and Big Guy become an unstoppable team, with the Scrufster being the brains, and Big Guy being the brawn?

I can't wait to find out!

Wolv90

2013-10-09, 09:21 AM

I'm gonna predict that the end of the book will be Tarquin thinking about his loss while peering into the rift, only to be approached by something from the other side that offers to help him conquer his world.

Wolv90

2013-10-09, 09:27 AM

CarpeGuitarrem

2013-10-09, 09:28 AM

My reaction to panel 1: "Awww, poor Elan. I know that feel, dude."

joela

2013-10-09, 09:32 AM

AWE. SOME. :smallbiggrin:

Werbaer

2013-10-09, 09:34 AM

I don't know how I missed it but when did Haley lean to fly?
Shortly before strip 53 (http://www.giantitp.com/comics/oots0053.html). But she still needs the help of a wizard to lift-off.

multilis

2013-10-09, 09:35 AM

What a heart breaking strip!

Frame 9, Romeo gets one last chance to make eyes with Juliet.

Frame 10 they do little necking.

Frame 11, the love dinos are broken up by war, V savagely attacks Juliet with lightning. Heart broken Romeo falls head over heals.

Frame 12, Romeo has that heartbreaking look as he understands he may not see Juliet again.

Frame 13, Romeo howls to the sky his frustration at being separated from Juliet.

HobbesB

2013-10-09, 09:35 AM

This seems both too easy and too good to be true. I don't see Tarquin concerning himself with Xykon, so his loose threads, most prominently Elan's plan to defeat him, need to be tied up before they set out for the final gate.

Oko and Qailee

2013-10-09, 09:36 AM

689
:haley: It involves jumping on it, doesn't it? That's totally going to be a thing with you from now on, I can tell.

923
:roy: That's fine, I have a plan now.

Yes, Haley. Yes it is a thing.

OMG I didnt even realize that!

This dinosaur is already my fav member of the team

Wordplay

2013-10-09, 09:44 AM

Midway through reading, starting whistling the theme tune to Jurassic Park - completely involuntarily.

Snurk

2013-10-09, 09:49 AM

I had a double dinogasm reading this...

chibibar

2013-10-09, 09:51 AM

Awesome Rich. The Great escape!

Martok

2013-10-09, 09:58 AM

Who's a good apex predator? Who's a good apex predator? YOU ARE!
LOL! Well said. :smallamused:

Lordchoculla

2013-10-09, 09:59 AM

Awesome Rich. The Great escape!

Like this:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6zwW7iWinrk

Hope they avoid the barbed devil ... oh, he is on their side this time :smallbiggrin:

Dakaran

2013-10-09, 10:04 AM

Dinosaur rides are AWESOME!

zero

2013-10-09, 10:08 AM

I don't know how I missed it but when did Haley lean to fly?
When V cast fly upon her. Actually she did learn to fly in a bonus strip in DCF that follows strip 49 (http://www.giantitp.com/comics/oots0049.html).

Bisqwit

2013-10-09, 10:14 AM

Aww, look at that one happy dinosaur!

Cynric

2013-10-09, 10:17 AM

Great strip.

Now, to the next gate! Or Xykon's Astral-Fortress-Tomb-Thingie! Either's good!

F.Harr

2013-10-09, 10:21 AM

YEAH! Go Allie!!!

That was so cool! And I TOLD you that it was more likely that Tarquin had brought only hundreds of soldiers. Nyaaaaa! >:p

F.Harr

2013-10-09, 10:22 AM

Great strip.

Now, to the next gate! Or Xykon's Astral-Fortress-Tomb-Thingie! Either's good!

Why would anyone do that? The phylactory's not there.

allenw

2013-10-09, 10:33 AM

Now for the more important question... Does this mean that Belkar now has a second animal companion? Will Mr. Scruffy and Big Guy become an unstoppable team, with the Scrufster being the brains, and Big Guy being the brawn?

I can't wait to find out!

I believe that Belkar can have only one Animal Companion at a time.
Which means that Mr. Scruffy might be about to go "wild."
Which could be fatal for Belkar... (http://www.giantitp.com/comics/oots0780.html)

JSSheridan

2013-10-09, 10:48 AM

Why would anyone do that? The phylactory's not there.

The Order doesn't know about it either.

Since V cast Overland Flight on Belkar and Durkon back in 835 (http://www.giantitp.com/comics/oots0835.html), Belkar could still fly, but Durkon lost it when he died.

PhallicWarrior

2013-10-09, 10:50 AM

That might be the single coolest thing I've seen from this comic yet.

Shining Wrath

2013-10-09, 10:52 AM

Pharmaceutical dosage specifications are determined by the laws of chemistry, which in turn are based on the laws of physics.

And we all know which corner arcane magic can tell those laws to sit down and pout in.

But you know what the *real* question is?

What potions buff an allosaur enough to let it one-shot another allosaur with a single bite?

Next panel V is casting lightning on the pale allosaurus.

Silverionmox

2013-10-09, 10:56 AM

Bravo!
I'm stealing this for my sig!
You're welcome :)

factotum

2013-10-09, 10:56 AM

Question for the paleontological set: estimated max speed for Tarquin's triceratops vis-a-vis a laden allosaurus.

An allosaurus weighs something close to 3 tons--three adult humans (one in armour), a cat, and a halfling are barely enough load for it to notice the difference. Besides, carry weights in D&D depend on the Strength score of the beast in question, and I have no idea what the STR score for an allosaurus is--it's not listed on the SRD for some reason!

Shale

2013-10-09, 10:58 AM

The Order doesn't know about it either.

Since V cast Overland Flight on Belkar and Durkon back in 835 (http://www.giantitp.com/comics/oots0835.html), Belkar could still fly, but Durkon lost it when he died.

Overland Flight lasts for an hour per level, and V expected to spend a significant portion of a day flying to the canyon. It's almost certainly expired.

Shining Wrath

2013-10-09, 11:06 AM

An allosaurus weighs something close to 3 tons--three adult humans (one in armour), a cat, and a halfling are barely enough load for it to notice the difference. Besides, carry weights in D&D depend on the Strength score of the beast in question, and I have no idea what the STR score for an allosaurus is--it's not listed on the SRD for some reason!

Roy: armored human: 250 pounds
Durkon: full plate dwarfpire: 250 pounds
Elan: lightly armored human: 150 pounds
Belkar: halfling: 50 pounds
The Mighty Scruffy: Cat: 5 pounds

Total: 705 pounds.

Gift Jeraff

2013-10-09, 11:12 AM

Elan has no armour on. (http://www.giantitp.com/comics/oots0675.html)

Fish

2013-10-09, 11:13 AM

1) Tarquin is extremely powerful in a physical fight... I doubt Tarquin leaves himself open, even when sleeping.
Yes, exactly. Tarquin has a wonderful plan for staying safe from succubi while he sleeps. See, his best friend is a cleric who doesn't sleep... oh wait you guys.

How many of Tarquin's contingency plans depend on the presence of Malack? Many, I suspect; Tarquin cannot be a multi-everything-class epic-all-casting-all-everything.

toapat

2013-10-09, 11:16 AM

Roy: armored human: 250 pounds
Durkon: full plate dwarfpire: 250 pounds
Elan: lightly armored human: 150 pounds
Belkar: halfling: 50 pounds
The Mighty Scruffy: Cat: 5 pounds

Total: 705 pounds.

for a huge creature, thats way below a 18 str's light load, let alone an allosaurus' much more likely in the mid 30s load, thanks to belkar having assigned his animal companion bonuses to the allosaurus

David Argall

2013-10-09, 11:16 AM

Given how close we are to the end of the comic- it wouldn't entirely surprise me if that doesn't happen but instead he lets them flee.
Given the high rate of success achieved by predicting "something else", one must always worry when talking about the future plot, but...
Since Tarquin is only a sub boss, we do need to wrap him up now that his part of the story is over. The party has every incentive to head North at full speed no matter what side quests are offered. His just letting the party go just leaves us with a very obvious loose end that should be tied up now. Something needs to be done about the evil empire besides leaving it.

King of Nowhere

2013-10-09, 11:26 AM

Great. I was looking forward to a duel with tarquin mounted on the tryceratops, but can't have everything :smallsmile:

A nitpicky note about what i presume is an art mistake, probably made already by others:
in the 4th panel of the second page, the bridles on both dinosaurs disappear. they reapper in the next panel.

Scutatus

2013-10-09, 11:26 AM

Your reference is quite unspecific. Which song do you mean?

show must go on?
I want to break free?
We are the champions?

Or indeed....Breakthrough.

Silly video alert!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6OVjt2JfiGw

NihhusHuotAliro

2013-10-09, 11:35 AM

Oh, so they aren't going to use the pteranodons?

Also, no matter what Rich says, I'm going to keep on believing that that Allosaurus was tumbling and rolling. I'm also going to believe that the other Allosaurus is alive and ran off to be free.

Ave

2013-10-09, 11:40 AM

multilis

2013-10-09, 11:43 AM

Since Tarquin is only a sub boss, we do need to wrap him up now that his part of the story is over. The party has every incentive to head North at full speed no matter what side quests are offered. His just letting the party go just leaves us with a very obvious loose end that should be tied up now. Something needs to be done about the evil empire besides leaving it.
We don't know that his part of story is over.

Nale has been part of story since beginning, and may not be in story anymore.

There may be 9 sides, there may be battle royale at end.

For all we know X may be destroyed before Tarquin is. Just as Sabine outlives Nale, Redcloak may outlive X.

For all we know top villain at end could be IFCC, Redcloak, Snarl, Durkon, etc.

Orm-Embar

2013-10-09, 11:44 AM

That was huge amounts of fun. Roy seizing the moment with an improvised plan! Battling dinosaurs! Tarquin's army fleeing the wrath of the allosaurus! Yes, dinosaur rides really are awesome.

Thanks, Giant. :smallsmile:

I like to imagine that off camera, Tarquin is either gnashing his teeth in classic curses-foiled-again style, or trying to stoneface it and pretend this is all part of his master plan.

Those who want to see a resolution with Tarquin won't like it, but this could well be the end of the side-adventure. The OOTS just doesn't have time for this right now when Xykon is already heading for the last gate. Besides, Elan said it already: Dad will have to wait until they're done stopping Xykon. (http://www.giantitp.com/comics/oots0916.html)

bengator

2013-10-09, 11:46 AM

Yeah, no falling damage - he got plot shield while they are riding the dino.

Do you think he fell? To me it looked like he held onto the reins the whole time, but I admit I am having trouble with the perspective. I thought he just got whipped around while hanging on.

Oko and Qailee

2013-10-09, 11:53 AM

Man, Tarquin must be furious.

Even the Halfling is looking way more badass than Elan

NihhusHuotAliro

2013-10-09, 12:00 PM

The allosaur train, gonna ride ride ride ride.... the allosaur train...

I know I'm not the only old person with kids who had this pop into his head.

Once upon a time, there was a mom

her name was mrs. Poekilopleuron

sitting on her nest, she heard a cracking

and said, "oh boy, my eggs be hatching"

one by one, the kids popped free

baby Antrodemus, one two three

"I'll name you Pistachio, Big Guy, and the dinosaur"

But Pistachio said, "we're not called Antrodemus anymore"

the last little baby had a different size

weak teeth, no tail, and dull black eyes

didn't look anything like the rest,

"What am I doing in an Allosaur nest"

But dear old mrs. Poekilopleuron

said, "this is your faimly, and I'm your mom

you may be different, but we're all evil creatures

all bloodthirsty monsters have different features

Come on, Belkar, we'll take a vacation

I'll get us a ticket at face-stomping station

we'll crush all the worms in sunshine and rain

and squash all before us on the...

ALLOSAUR TRAIN!

Allosaur train!

Gonna ride, ride ride.....

the Allosaur Train

hagnat

2013-10-09, 12:00 PM

now imagine if V could cast a fly spell on the allosaur...

kenlund

2013-10-09, 12:00 PM

The Order has gone through quite a lot since arriving in Windy Canyon. I hope they got enough XP to level soon :smallsmile:

BungleBee

2013-10-09, 12:06 PM

When V cast fly upon her.

I totally missed it! I need to pay better attention. :redface:

Sir_Leorik

2013-10-09, 12:09 PM

"... while blocking out all thoughts concerning pharmaceutical dosage specifications."

I'm not sure why, but that was the best part for me :smallamused:

And wouldn't the T-rex's larger size mean a human dosage would be LESS effective if V's comment on Pharmaceuticals is correct?

That's the joke.

Yup. V needs to stop getting so worked up over violations of common sense. (Roy could probably stand to do the same. :smallbiggrin:)

They don't need no stinking Rift.

Darn straight! They can ride the Allosaurus off into the sunset (and the last page of Book Five)! I've been saying it for weeks people: there's no way the OotS will travel to the other world this soon. Not until the latter half of Book Six at the earliest.

Great comic Giant! More Allosaurus!

Thomar_of_Uointer

2013-10-09, 12:13 PM

I love this. I love everything about this.

I like to imagine that off camera, Tarquin is either gnashing his teeth in classic curses-foiled-again style, or trying to stoneface it and pretend this is all part of his master plan.

"Well played, Elan. By manipulating the narrative to produce a denouement, you negated my attempt at seizing a dramatic climax and ended the story arc. I can't say I'm not annoyed, but it does demonstrate that you are a worthy opponent."

Sir_Leorik

2013-10-09, 12:14 PM

Now, to the next gate! Or Xykon's Astral-Fortress-Tomb-Thingie! Either's good!

Why would anyone do that? The phylactory's not there.

More to the point, nobody in the OotS knows about it.

for a huge creature, thats way below a 18 str's light load, let alone an allosaurus' much more likely in the mid 30s load, thanks to belkar having assigned his animal companion bonuses to the allosaurus

Why would Belkar need to? He's using Wild Empathy to control it.

I like to imagine that off camera, Tarquin is either gnashing his teeth in classic curses-foiled-again style, or trying to stoneface it and pretend this is all part of his master plan.

Those who want to see a resolution with Tarquin won't like it, but this could well be the end of the side-adventure. The OOTS just doesn't have time for this right now when Xykon is already heading for the last gate. Besides, Elan said it already: Dad will have to wait until they're done stopping Xykon. (http://www.giantitp.com/comics/oots0916.html)

Or Tarquin, furious at being ignored, will ignore the Evil Overlord List and chase after Elan and Co. to the Northern Continent. Either way, Tarquin is going to be relegated to "dangling thread" status, and he's going to hate every minute of it. :smalltongue:

Michaeler

2013-10-09, 12:16 PM

I'm pretty sure the Allosaurus is not Belkar's companion. Most likely it's not treated too well in the Empire. They probably keep it hungry to keep it aggressive and Belkar, having befriended it using Wild Empathy, has always been associated with there being more to eat.

Thus the Allosaurus is coming along for the extra yummies and will eventually wander off looking for appropriate prey when it's no longer needed. This is all a dinner date in its eyes.

Justin Time

2013-10-09, 12:17 PM

I believe that Belkar can have only one Animal Companion at a time.
Which means that Mr. Scruffy might be about to go "wild."
Which could be fatal for Belkar... (http://www.giantitp.com/comics/oots0780.html)

Very true, and the dinosaur isn't a companion. That's just some good ole fashioned animal empathy.

Shale

2013-10-09, 12:18 PM

this is probably true, as much as I would love it if the strip became The Order Of The Stick (And Their Allosaurus).

Magesmiley

2013-10-09, 12:19 PM

"while blocking out all thoughts concerning pharmaceutical dosage specifications"

:smallsmile:

I'm suddenly having visions of the Order riding off into the sunset in the next strip, which seems like a great place to end a book.

happycrow

2013-10-09, 12:39 PM

But Pistachio said, "we're not called Antrodemus anymore"

Outnerded AND outgeeked. I salute you. :smallcool:

jukehero461

2013-10-09, 12:41 PM

You know, I think this moment is now Belkar's new defining "badass" moment. This has gotta trump "sexy shoeless god of war".

Oh, and he escapes to live another day!

Zorgoth

2013-10-09, 12:52 PM

That was perhaps the order's most awesome escape yet. Also, there will be a"flee before me, worms" t shirt in not so much time at all, I think.

Lkctgo

2013-10-09, 12:52 PM

Very awesome. Some of the details are very nice
- Elan is cheering as their dinosaur attacks the other one
- Belkar is getting lifted back onto the dinosaur after it trips by V, of all people.
- As someone else mentioned, Durkon uses spider climb to hold on to the side of the dinosaur.

And the joke about potions was awesome too.

Actually, I think the dinosaur tripped and Belkar just continued to hold on to the reins as it righted itself.. V did not carry him. If you look carefully, V's hands are free. Only Haley went to give Elan a boost up. And Roy managed to hold on to the dinosaur with only 1 ride skill. :amused:

tomandtish

2013-10-09, 01:01 PM

He already has. That was the punchline of #914, remember?

One thing is for absolute certain. When Tarquin dies--no matter what kills him--

the board will erupt with screams of, "Nooo! Unrealistic for Tarquin not to plan for that!"

It's also important to remember that Tarquin may not realize that Sabine is actually in love with Nale. Based on what we've seen of him, most of his marriages (with the possible exception of Elan's mom) were politically motivated and he has no problem using torture and coercion to force the issue.

He may very well have always assumed that Sabine is a typical succubus who was hanging around Nale for strategic reasons and the relationship was incidental, with any implications of "love" simply being Sabine acting as Succubi normally do.

Will Mr. Scruffy and Big Guy become an unstoppable team, with the Scrufster being the brains, and Big Guy being the brawn?

I can't wait to find out!

One's a cold hearted killer with a fondness for string. The other's a Mook-eating machine with a brain the size of a walnut. Together they fight crime wreck destruction upon the known universe.