An Unchanging Reality

[meemaas]

Krin

You arrive to the palace early, and get given a room to stay in until the queen was ready to see you. You take a few days to explore the nearby surroundings and finally get a summons to meet with the queen. When you arrive to the queens throne room, there is already another person present, a humanoid that is fairly uncommon upon the world in which you've lived, alongside the queen sitting on her throne.

Balrik

After your long and arduous journey to Vesperia, you find yourself held up at the gate. For some reason, the guards don't believe you were to meet with the queen. You stay held at the gate for some time, until a young elven approaches you and asks for your name. After giving it, she tells the guards you are indeed expected, and personally escorts you to the queens throne room immediately. You are the first to arrive, and shortly after that, a half-elf arriving to sit with you.

Everyone

Once Krin and Balrik have both arrived, the queen calls for her guards, who come escorting a bound and gagged older man. She waves for them and speaks up. "Unbind Dagan, I wish the three of you to speak amongst yourselves for a few minutes while i retrieve a few things in preparation." As the guards remove the bindings and the gag, the queen leaves the room, leaving the three clear outsiders together to speak amongst themselves.

[Starbin]

Balrik had sat still in the throne room, not speaking. He didn't blame the soldiers at the gate for their disbelief ... too many times he had been treated worse than those two had. Regardless, Fate had prevailed and ensured he was where he needed to be. He waited patiently, wondering who else would come, when a half-elf walked in. Balrik was sure that his visage was strange enough to elicit some outrageous thoughts, if not actions. He was tall, muscular and humanoid - and that's where things took a shift for the strange. The sides of his head were shorn clean, highlighting the blood red whorls and tribal markings across bluish skin. What was left of his shaggy, white mane was pulled back and tied together in a ponytail. His eyes were bright blue eyes stared out piercingly. Dull blue scales covered most of his skin, fading at his extremities right before the white claws. He wore furs over his, and a cloak that was thrown back. After a few moments, the half-elf would probably notice a long tail lashing back and forth, if he wasn't distracted by the a long, ringed blade rises up over one of his shoulders ... or the other one that rested on his hip, broken a foot past the hilt.

Balrik nodded to the half-elf, not saying anything. However, when the bound and gagged man was brought in and left to 'speak' with them. He raised an eyebrow, then finally broke the silence. "Who are you?"

[Morbis Meh]

Dagan was in positively high spirits, it had been decades since he was allowed to go for a stroll through the castle; however, to most being bound by 5 different chains, a straight jacket and a gag wouldn't exactly qualify as a stroll but to Dagan it was an absolute treat. They allowed him to keep his mask, a very considerate action (actually they could stand the sight of his rather hideous visage), which made his lithe figure look quite odd as he was drug from the dungeons to the throne room. It took a moment for his eyes to adjust to natural daylight, a somewhat unpleasant experience due to being imprisoned in the dark for half a century. At the sound of the order to unbind and ungag him, Dagan felt the guards tense up and he relished in their sense of dread. It had been an ordeal for them to be sure, the moment they removed him from the lower levels he had begun to sing though to the guards it was only an odd mumble/hum. Reluctantly they slowly removed the gag before working on the bindings thus unleashing Dagan's detestable singing voice.

"MMMmmm..... NOWHERE TO HIDE, NOWHERE TO RUN. YOUR VILLAGE WILL BURN LIKE THE HEART OF THHHHEEEE SUUUUUNNNNN. WITH INFINITE GLEE, IT'S GOING TO BE ME THAT SLAUGHTERS THE WORRRRRRRLD!
" The guards were visibly disgusted at the rather inappropriate tune they were being force to listen to while they removed Dagan's bond. Once freed the odd man pressed himself against one of the guards and put his face right up into the guards "HOW COULD I GLARE INTO THOSE EYES AND THEN NOT STAB THEM?" Before the guard could react or his partner draw his blade, Dagan released him and began to dance around "HOW COULD I STARE AT THEIR LOSS AND THEN NOT LAUUUUGH? I CUT THEM IN HALF AND THEN GRAFT HIS HEAD BACK ONTO HIS SHOULDERS. OR AFTER I LOP IT, TURN IT INTO A PUPPET, ON TOP OF AAAA STTTTTAAAAAAAAAFFFFF!"

Once a question was directed towards his person, Dagan immediately stopped singing (much to the relief of everyone) and sped towards the fur clad man at a dead run stopping only inches away from him. An awkward moment of hesitation passes before the odd man begins to move around his target sniffing furiously "Oh my, it must be Christmas or my Birthday, or maybe my birthday was on Christmas and that makes me a living god, bwhahahaha... The Queen didn't have to give me these new playthings as a gift, being allowed outside was more than enough. I hope she knows I have a dreadful habit of breaking playthings after awhile, I simply get too excited and get too rough!" Standing behind the man, Dagan gingerly lifts up a finger and pokes the man "Hehehehehe... Now Dance."

[Down Comforter]

Smiling to see the queen, Krin blinks when she sees the blue man, but returns the nod. She eyes him curiously as she makes her way to a cushioned seat, using her spear as a walking stick. Plopping herself down she tries to study Balrik surreptitiously, but succeeds in just staring. When the queen speaks, she jumps, and becomes fascinated with studying her hands. She idly watches Balrik's tail move while they wait for their third to arrive.

Krin stays quite happily in the background as the madman bothers the other...man? She calls some spells to mind. Just in case. Of course.

[Starbin]

Balrik listened to the strange man blather on, almost crazily, while the guards watched with apprehension and fear. It was odd the queen left them alone, to 'discuss' but departed herself in the face of this apparent madman. It raised questions on the actual purpose of this meeting ... was it to get to know each other? Or to showcase their combat skills and expertise against a rabid dog?

When Dagan rushed towards him, Balrik tensed ... he was prepared to counter any attack the man made. But when Dagan stopped and proceeded to sniff him, then tried to elicit a reaction out of him with a poke, the devil-spawn frowned slightly. If this creature were truly deadly, and a threat the Queen wanted eliminated, it probably would have actually ttacked them. The guards would not have seemed so restrained either. No ... there was something else going on here, some gambit that the Queen was attempting to play out. Perhaps the test, the real test, was to see how they would react to such outrageous behavior ... and whether they could restrain themselves long enough to see past the strange man's obvious insanity.

Nodding to himself, he simply turned to stare at the man, unwilling to jump at his command. Instead, he sighed. "You are Dagan ... and you wouldn't like my dance. But who are you?"

The last was said to the woman who was attempting to remain unnoticed.

[Morbis Meh]

Dagan raises his arms in the air the sharply points to one of the guard with both of his hands "DING DING DING, tell our contestant what he's won Johnny! It seems my reputation proceeds me even after half a century of imprisonment but alas I am afraid I cannot extend the same courtesy... AND NOW A WORD FROM OUR SPONSORS." He looks towards the throne for a moment seeming to wait for a reply from the queen but quickly turns back to the others "I guess not! Now shall we proceed to examine what lies behind DOOR NUMBER TWO!"

The former royal assassin bends sideways until his torso is nearly perpendicular to his legs as he examines the lone female of the group. Without warning he deftly begins moving towards her in his ridiculous position and straightens himself when he is in general proximity of the half elf (he stays at arms length as he takes note of the spear). In a fluid motion he whips his hand in front of his face, blows into it, and sniffs it while grimacing slightly "Wooow, you will have to forgive me my dear lady, I regret to inform you that no they do not serve breath mints in prison. I know it is a question that resides in the back of all of our minds and it is indeed tragic but nonetheless we shall have to make due!" With a crooked grin, Dagan performs a well practiced and alarmingly eloquent bow "I humbly request your forgiveness at my previous display, as I mention I get rather excitable as of late... Must have something to do with being bound in chains for the past 50 years but then again they allowed me to make drawings. If they would have notified me of this earlier I could have prepared such a work of art for you as a greeting but alas the staff here lack even the most simple of politeness. I suppose I will have to find another suitable gift in the interim, are you fond of stuffed animals? I am most certain I could find a being that fulfills the requirement then kill it and stuff it.... Or was it stuff it and kill it, I can never remember!"

[Down Comforter]

Still eyeing the pair warily, Krin shifts in her seat. "Krin. Babblebrook." She seems like she's going to say more, but the madman has another outburst and she tries to find a way to scoot further into the seat as he appears in front of her. Her eyes shift to the guards.

"It's no trouble, not at all. No need to bring gifts or any such thing. Um. Who are you?"

[meemaas]

As the party speaks amongst themselves, they fail to notice the queen rejoining them, as she turns to the three of them and smiles, a soldier following behind her as she takes her seat. "Calm down Dagan. I've let you free for a reason. You and these two are to be traveling together to fulfill duties that I personally cannot. However, you are to answer to Balrik while traveling with him. Am I understood? Do your duty properly and when you're finished, I promise not to imprison you as my father once did." She then turns to the others, dropping her focus on Dagan to address them. "I apologize for him. He's a loyal and powerful ally, but hasn't had much in the way of human contact in decades. My guards won't even feed him themselves anymore. Always has to be an unseen servant. I appreciate that the two of you have come to meet with me. The oncoming war is threatening to destroy the balance of Angara, and I cannot take direct action to prevent it." She smiles softly, unconvincingly, as she speaks.

[Starbin]

Balrik seemed to take the strangeness of this meeting in stride. He remained ready to defend himself, but relaxed when the queen returned. At her announcement that he would be giving orders, he nodded once. His only question right now was simple - "What do you need done?"

[Morbis Meh]

Dagan begins giggling though the sound would be more accurately described as rusted metal grating over stone "Balrik?... BALRIK! Really? What parents in their right mind give such a name to a child, they must have wanted you to be beat up from childhood... Do you prefer BAL or Rik?" At the mention of the deal Dagan snaps to attention "How thoughtful your highness but alas it seems either your history tutor was mislead or your memory is lacking, it was your GRANDfather who locked me up for taking initiative and performing a certain 'task' for him that he didn't want let out. Realistically it was wrongful imprisonment without trial but what can I say I have a large heart, I can let bygones be bygones... As long as I eventually get reinstated to my former position but for now I shall be the ever loyal subject and play along with these two. Pray tell what are these tasks you, the Witch Queen of Angara, are unable to do while such a lowly prisoner can... I imagine it isn't the most moral of assignments if you feel the need to slink back to me."

[Down Comforter]

Krin slips off the chair, further from the madman and moves to keep Balrik between Dagan and herself. Content with listening, she tries to keep an eye on everyone in the room at the same time.

[meemaas]

The Queen glares at Dagan, her eyes narrowing as she began to speak to him first. "You killed no less than three members of my family. The only reason you weren't killed for it yourself was because one of them was discovered to be plotting against my grandfather." She waves at the door, and a young elven man walks in, a bag slung over his shoulder as he approaches the queen. "Syntax will fill you in on the details."

The man, presumably Syntax, turns to address the group with a serious expression. "The murder of King Gestorn created a vacuum that his elder son took over. We believe his primary advisor, a man named Dendu Vigorn, orchestrated the murder to put Aaran in power. It is also with Dendu's actions that this war is coming on, and he has been proven to be behind guerilla attacks within the Vesperia kingdom and possibly the Reynald kingdom too. I work with a resistance effort within the Gestorn kingdom, centered in the capital, and I came to request aid from the Queen. Should you choose to accept, you would be that aid."

[Starbin]

Balrik ignored the bait offered by the crazed man's taunts, simply replying, "Balrik." He took note of Dagan's crime however, understanding that just because he was crazy didn't mean he wasn't dangerous. At the entrance of Syntax, he assessed the man, listening closely to what he had to say. He nodded slightly once the elf had finished speaking.

"We will do as the Queen requests. But once we are successful, your problem remains - a vacuum will still exist. Who do you wish to fill it? Is it Aaran on the throne that you fear, or simply Vigorn's influence?"

[meemaas]

Syntax cleared his throat before answering Balrik's question. "I don't know how much of this war is solely Dendu's fault. When the time comes, we plan to let the council make the decision as to the path of the country. It is their duty, after all."



Below the king in the Gestorn Hierarchy is a council of elders who exists for the sake of the succession of the royal bloodline. The council rotates every decade and usually contains a past king who has stepped down for the succession. To memory, the only time in the past 30 years the council has met was for Aaran's succession to the throne.

[Morbis Meh]

Dagan rolls his eyes and interrupts the conversations "BBBBOOOOOOORRRRIIINNNGGG! Leave the politicking to the pot bellied pencil pushers, we have places to burn and people to kill! Now my dearest and most respected Monarch, I remember things quite differently and as far as I am concerned I was actually there and you were not thus making your opinion on the matter irrelevant. I was not locked up for murder, Royal Assassin's are expected to do such tasks, no I was locked up for knowing something I shouldn't.... SOMETHING your predecessors thought was important enough to keep hidden from the public. Now let's skip the pleasantries and go on our merry way with our ginger friend, Grammar, last time I checked Gestorn wasn't the closest of places but who knows maybe within half a decade borders shifted significantly.

[Down Comforter]

Somewhat lost in all the discussion of politics, Krin tries to pay attention to everyone speaking, while eyeing the elf appreciatively with a small smile.

[Starbin]

Balrik raised an eyebrow at the statement Syntax made, glancing back at the queen to see if she agreed. To suggest that this council would rise to the occasion suddenly was a bit naive ... and more than a little shortsighted. Especially for a council only formed once in the last 30 years, and that was to place the current king on the throne ... a king who had been implicated in the disposal of his own father.

Short-sighted, or a purposeful act ... which meant there was probably more here than meets the eye. Looking back at the others, he nodded towards the elf. "What would you ask us to do?"

[meemaas]

Syntax eyes Dagan warily as he answers Balriks question. "I'm not the leader of the resistance. I do not know what she has in plan. I'm merely the messenger. Everything i've told you is based solely on evidence she and our fellow men have collected since the murder."

The queen smiles. "Dagan, if you would please calm down. I happen to have transportation for the three of you to reach the Gestorn kingdom in very short order. You did say it yourself, did you not? I am the Witch-Queen of Angara, as you so aptly put it. You'd do well to remember that before i banish you to the underworld itself."

[Morbis Meh]

Dagan giggles "My, my, my quite the temper your highness; such base emotions are hardly fitting for a monarch but then again it is certainly a trait that runs in your family. As for the transportation you have my thanks, I would not dare to presume that status of your bloodlines power considering within your grandfather it was beginning to wane if my memory serves me."

[Starbin]

Balrik's eyes narrowed slightly as he realized this man was not a plant from the Queen but a citizen of the land seeking aid. "Who is your leader?"

Balrik will want to know if there are any issues that require specific equipment ... like a need for cold weather gear, or climbing kits, or whatever. Also, he will want to ask the Queen who she wants on the throne ...

[meemaas]

"Her name is Thea Umbridge. She's nothing of royalty, and has no designs on the throne. She's....You'll meet her in a few days. That'll explain more than I can." Syntax watches Balrik as he stares him down.

When asked a few followup questions from Balrik, Syntax responds carefully. "I don't know. It all depends on what Thea asks you to do. But i'm sure we'll be able to get whatever we need if the time comes to it."

When Balrik closes in with the queen to speak with her without being overheard by Syntax, she responds to him quietly.

"I'd love to see the other prince on the throne, but he's the one considered responsible for the murder of his father to begin with. In the end, it will probably be a distant relative of the royal family. There's a few offshoots living just a little ways off the coast of the Gestorn kingdom, last i heard."

I took the liberty of assuming that Balrik took the time to ask your questions and answered them as such.

[Down Comforter]

The half-elf shrugs her shoulders and straightens a bit. "So then, where do we go from here?"

[Morbis Meh]

Dagan noting that the conversation had grown more boring decided to sit down on the floor and meditate calmly while the others continued to banter. He could care less about the specifics of the mission, he just wanted to get out there and begin killing again.

[Starbin]

OOC - My bad ... guess y'all were waiting on me. I ruined meemaas' good call on answering all the questions! :smallredface:

Balrik nodded to the responses to his questions, not really saying much more. When the half-elf spoke up, he bowed his head towards the queen. "With her leave, we go."

Ready to move out ... sorry again for the delay!

[meemaas]

The queen steps forward and draws a scroll from her little bag, offering it out to Krin. "This scroll is specially prepared so you can use it. It will teleport you to a safe area some ways inside the Gestorn kingdom. It also contains a spell to allow you to contact me should you need to. Leave when the four of you are ready. I wish you the best of luck."

Syntax nods and steps up to the rest of the group. "I appreciate all you've done for me your majesty, and to all you three will do for me in the near future."

The contents of the scroll contain a houseruled Teleport spell and a houseruled Sending spell that any arcane caster can use.

[Down Comforter]

Krin flushes and manages an awkward half-bow as the queen approaches. She takes and tucks the scrolls into a small scroll case in her bag, running her eyes over them quickly. "Is there anything we should know about where we're arriving? Will we meet your allies when we arrive?"

[meemaas]

"No, to be sure that we don't get captured upon arrival, we're set to come about a days walk from the capital. I'll be able to lead us to the hideout fairly easily and safely."

[Starbin]

Balrik motioned for the group to carry on. The queen had given her leave, and this Syntax had already said there was nothing they specifically required prior to their departure. With a curt bow to the queen, he readied himself for the spell that Krin held. "Wasted time benefits no one but our adversary. Onward."

Figure Balrik will poke the party ... let's get a move on!

[Down Comforter]

Eyeing Snytax appreciatively once more, Krin nods and follows Balrik's lead, since he was the only one who seemed to know what he was doing. And didn't seem insane. Which was a plus.

[Morbis Meh]

Dagan gets up wordless and skulks about, awaiting for their departure, at least he no longer looked like a beggar since the Queen gave him back his possessions.

[meemaas]

The four gather together, and Krin unrolls the scroll, speaking the words of magic to send them to their destination. As the magic envelops the group, their surroundings change to that of a small clearing surrounded by trees. Syntax points towards a path into the forest. "That's the path to the capital. Be on your guard. Aaran has been very paranoid and posting guards in the most unusual spots."

Welcome to the Gestorn kingdom. After you.

[Starbin]

Balrik took a moment to study his surroundings, listening as Syntax spoke. Glancing at the trail, he pauses, then speaks quietly. "Is the capital where Thea Umbridge awaits? If so, we should go. Do you have a city map?"

Ready to move on ... just want to make sure we're headed in the right direction. If Syntax knows the place and these woods, I suggest he take us alongside the path. Otherwise, we simply need to stay alert.

[Down Comforter]

Instantly back at ease in the woods once more, Krin crouches and breathes deep. She wiggles her fingers into the grass and starts whispering in Sylvan. After about a minute, she smiles and says, "Sabawa"

With that, a stag that looks to be made of leaves, bark, and fur seems to sprout from the grass before standing beside Krin. It's antlers, seemingly tree branches with live leaves sprouting, reach almost a foot over Krin's head as she stands. A faintly glowing Dagaz rune appears on her forehead, a mirror of that on the deer's forehead.

With a sigh and a smile, she looks at the others, her hand on the deer's neck. "It might be best to ask these questions with some leaves over our head, instead of like scarecrows in a field."

[Morbis Meh]

Dagan yawns briefly, he never truly cared for magical travel since it always reduced the time he had for 'leisure', before walking on ahead "Ah nature, how droll it is, not enough fire or screaming for my tastes. Come along Balls and Grin, maybe if we're lucky we can stumble across a band of brigands to play with before evening." The odd man picks up his pace and strides away vigorously while whistling merrily.

[meemaas]

Syntax looks visibly disturbed by Dagan as he starts out into the woods. He turns to make sure the rest of the party is following him. They travel for a few hours before Syntax stops them. Almost simultaneously, Dagan and Balrik notice the presence too. Sabawa in turn alerts Krin, and everyone stops to see a patrol coming down the path some distance away. Syntax bolts off the path, waving for everyone to follow him.

[Morbis Meh]

Dagan feels torn, he had been itching for some 'casual fun' ever since he was let out of that cell and here was the perfect opportunity but alas it seems it was not meant to be. Pouting visibly, Dagan goes off into the bush with a huff.

Mythweavers is currently down so I am only guesstimating my modifier: level 4 + 3 class bonus + 5 dex = 12

[roll0] Modifier is actually +15 so final stealth is 22

[Down Comforter]

Patting Sabawa's neck, Krin slips off the path after Syntax, keeping an eye on Dagan. The spirit follows her.

[Starbin]

Balrik heard the approaching patrol and watched to make sure the others made it off the path quickly. Once they were gone, he slipped to the other side of the path, opposite his companions, knowing the tactical advantage of attacking from two sides might be needed.

Slip to other side of the path and find cover ... [roll0]. And for the inevitable combat that will ensue ...[roll1]. Slipping into Pugilist Stance, if/when combat starts.

[meemaas]

The party slips into the woods for hiding. As everyone gets safely hidden, some better than others, the patrolling party moves past them without even giving a second thought. The patrollers seem caught up in small talk, almost as if they don't expect anything coming this way. One even seems to have his nose in a book, rather than paying attention to where they are walking.


[roll0]

[Starbin]

Balrik watched the patrol move past. At this time, there seemed little reason to take them out, as any pitched battle could alert others to their position. Instead, he simply waited, quietly, letting them pass until the sounds of the forest returned.

Balrik won't attack ... but not sure if Dagan will :smallsmile:

[Down Comforter]

Krin stays behind Sabawa and watches the patrol, her eyes working with those of her companion ,trying to pick out anything interesting.


Krin's Perception [roll0]
Sabawa's Perception [roll1]

[meemaas]

The group passes by without noticing the party whatsoever, and after a few moments, Syntax signals for safety before heading back out to the path.

[Starbin]

This first test passed, Balrik joined the others to continue on their way. Tactically, it made sense to avoid the group, based off of what they currently knew ... later, it might turn out that letting the patrol live was an error in judgement. Fortunately, Balrik never worried about such things - one made decisions based on the situation at hand at the information available at the time - there was little use second guessing yourself when new data came to light.

The biggest variable in this 'almost' encounter had been how Dagan would react; the man acted a crazed, bloodthirsty monster, but apparently understood when restraint was called for. Still, he would keep an eye on the man.

Ready to keep on moving!

[Down Comforter]

A little more wary, Krin follows after the group, staying close to Syntax.

[meemaas]

The party makes its way down the path in mostly silence, excluding the insanity spouted by Dagan from time to time. After several hours, as night begins to set over the forest, they find that they can see the Gestorn capital in the distance, and at Syntax's suggestion, hide in the woods to make camp. The night goes by rather quietly, with Syntax and Balrik trading off shifts for watch, a few patrols pass audibly, but none make rounds deeper into the forest and the party finds themselves fairly safe. Once day breaks, the party makes its way down the path once more, but Syntax stops them about an hour down the line.

He backs up a few steps and points towards a clearing just a short way away. "Down there is a training ground for the palace guard. They use it for swordplay practice. Its possible they aren't doing practice today, and it'll be safe to go through, but if they are, we'll have to go well around it, which could cut off as much as an hour of travel time to be truly safe. What do you want to do?"

[Starbin]

OOC - I'm guessing you meant we'd add an hour if we didn't take the short cut ... :smallsmile:

Balrik paused, wondering about they they needed to do all this sneaking around. Leaning forward, he whispered, "Now that we're here, what need for subterfuge or speed? Do we stand out as threats by looks alone? Are there timing pressures?" He is willing to take the short route, if necessary, but if there is no need for speed or sneaking, he is willing to simply walk to where they are supposed to meet the leader of the rebellion.

I could be misunderstanding the situation ... but I thought we were on the way to meet the rest of the rebels. Seems like sneaking across the guards compound would only complicate things.

[Down Comforter]

"If we've come this far, there is no reason to take any risks. I say we go around."

[meemaas]

Syntax leads the party into the forest, talking quietly. "We don't stand out as threats, but they would be prone to attack on sight nonetheless. At least, this close to the capital they would. The days change every month, so i wouldn't know what days they would plan to use it this month whatsoever. Figured i'd offer to let you test your luck. Heh." They make their way through the forest, until they hear a loud clanking a short distance away, obscured by the trees.

[roll0]
[roll1]

Lucky you.

The party quickly silences itself, and listens for the noise to pass. Luckily for them, the noise seems to pass quickly, unaware of their presence.

[Starbin]

Once the noises passed, Balrik waited for a moment, then continued to follow their guide. He was not impressed with the man's desire to 'test their luck' ... behind enemy lines, fighting a guerilla war against the entrenched, incumbent forces, was NOT the time to test your luck. Fortunately, Dagan continued to operate in a some sort of trance, ignoring the group completely ... with only the periodic humming of some death dirge only he remembered.

[Down Comforter]

As the group moves on, Krin stays closer to her companion, trusting it to be her eyes and ears. She stays behind the rest of the group, keeping her head low when they hear the noise in the distance.

[meemaas]

The rest of the trip is fairly unexciting, and the party makes it into town without being seen out of place. Once past the city gates, Syntax leads the party into a back alley and gestures for the party to move past him while he looks around the corner. "Gotta make sure we aren't being followed. We're almost there." After a moment, he slips back to the group and starts knocking on the walls for a moment. He stops and pulls out a key, slipping it in between the bricks, opening the secret door hidden within.

[Starbin]

Balrik nodded, keeping his eyes open as he glanced around. He noted the hiding spot for later use, just in case Syntax was not with them.

[Down Comforter]

Kin dismisses Sabawa before entering the town, not willing to draw any unneeded attention. She sticks close to Syntax, hoping that he knows what he's doing.

[Morbis Meh]

Dagan blessedly remains quiet for the duration of the brief journey, preferring to observe the people he is travelling with along with his surroundings. It was not the wisest idea to begin slaughtering random patrol parties, it just raised too many questions and would be tedious to clean up properly. Inside a city was where chaos happened on a regular basis and would prove to be better hunting grounds.

[meemaas]

The party enters the secret door, and Syntax closes the door behind him. They make their way down the stairs and enter into a somewhat small basement room. A young woman approaches them with some small degree of excitement. "Syntax! You've returned! Are these the allies the queen was willing to send us?"

[Starbin]

Balrik didn't speak, letting Syntax introduce them first. He did, however, watch closely, using the time to memorize this woman's face and try to discern what she might mean to Syntax as he waited.

Might as well do a Sense Motive to bide the time :smallsmile:
[roll0]

[Down Comforter]

Krin eyes drift over the room, trying to pick out anything of note. She unbundles a small roll of cheese from her belt pouch and nibbles on it.

Perception Roll
[roll0]

[meemaas]

Syntax points at the people he is traveling with. "This is Balrik, then Dagan, and Krin. They each have their own talents that the queen believes may be of help to our cause.

The young woman smiles. "Excellent. My name is Thea Umbridge. I lead this little revolution. We have a few hidey holes in this town. These...." She trails off as she points to the two elves in the corner playing a card game. "Are Lel and Hem, two of our newer recruits."

Syntax nods to them and then turns back to Thea. "I must warn you, the queen informed me that Dagan is a bit of a wild card. He's dangerous but controllable, but she left the reigns in the hand of Balrik." He steps back, allowing the party to speak with Thea themselves.

[Starbin]

Balrik nodded as the woman introduced herself, but said nothing as Syntax warned her about Dagan. Looking about, he took his time memorizing the faces of his new allies, the two elves. Once he was done and the woman appeared to be waiting, he spoke. "I am Balrik. I will do my best to help your cause. When you are ready, I have questions." He took a step back and let the others say what they would.

Once Thea was ready, Balrik wasted little time, asking first for a map of the city, then starting in on his queries, letting her answer each question in succession.

How many fight with you?"
"What experience and skills do they have?"
"Where do they stay?"
"How are you postured for weapons?"
"How many safe houses do you have?"
"Where are they located?"
"Who do you have in the castle?"
"Are there loyalists there?"
"What is the mood of the people?"
"Do you have allies who will lend aid in the city?"
"What is your command structure?"
"What actions have you taken so far?"
"What plans do you have for the future?"
"What help do you seek from us?"

I think that's it for now ...

[Down Comforter]

Krin nods as she's introduced, but drifts to the side, distracted from the conversation by the elves in the corner. She looks them up and down, but continues listening.

[meemaas]

The lady smiles at Balrik and answers his questions one after the other.

"How many fight with you?"
"I can't divulge that number, in case you get captured. Except for myself and Syntax, nobody knows how many we are, just the people they work with."

"What experience and skills do they have?"
"Most of our people are commonfolk and have simple talents."

"Where do they stay?"
"We have a few safehouses in the city, and a few elsewhere in the kingdom, but most of our work is centered here for obvious reasons."

"How are you postured for weapons?"
"We can never have enough, but i'd rather not kill, since many of the people are just following orders and aren't really our enemies."

"How many safe houses do you have?"
"Where are they located?"[/COLOR
[COLOR="#0000CD"]"Who do you have in the castle?"
"I can't give away that information."

"Are there loyalists there?"
Loyalists to the kingdom? Of course."

"What is the mood of the people?"
"Most of the people do hate the current regime, but to defy the King is to risk death, so few are willing to risk it."

"Do you have allies who will lend aid in the city?"
"Not many. Most of what we are able to do we have to do ourselves."

"What is your command structure?"
"I am the leader, Syntax is my second in command. I had two others who worked alongside me, but...Dendu Vigorn say to them."

"What actions have you taken so far?"
"We've mostly been gathering information and sabotaging the war efforts. Anything we can do to prevent war from striking out, but we don't have enough manpower to fully stop the efforts."

"What plans do you have for the future?"
"We are hoping to take down the general and dethrone the king. When the king is dethroned, I hope to find the prince and seat him on the throne. I believe he will be better for our kingdom than Aaran is."

"What help do you seek from us?"
"Help with my efforts. I hope that your prowess will be enough to help us take down the General and his bodyguard. I trust you have heard of the mercenary Hajime Katsumi?"

Hajime Katsumi is considered a legendary swordmaster who disappeared off the face of the earth over a decade ago. Little is known about him except that he was once the strongest soldier of the Reynald kingdom, until he vanished.

Looking over the elves, you can tell that one is clearly a warrior, while the other appears to be a caster of some sort. You recognize few details besides those, as they appear to be fairly basic as far as elves go.

[Starbin]

Balrik listened carefully, committing her answers to memory. Once she finished, he shook his head when ask if he knew Katsumi. "I do not know him ... what his his role in this?"

After all the questions were asked, he was quiet for a moment, then finally spoke again. "So we are to assassinate the king AND general, or just the one?"

[meemaas]

"Katsumi is as of recently a personal bodyguard to General Vigorn. He is responsible for the death of some of the strongest warriors we had, including a personal friend of mine."

"We hope to kill the General, but the King doesn't NEED to die. If we can capture him, we'll be able to make the difference we're here to do." She sighs a little as she finishes that. "But if we have to, we may have to kill him. I'd rather that be the last resort though."

[Starbin]

Balrik nodded, assessing the information. "Perhaps you can share the intel you have on the assassin, the general and the king. Best we understand who we are dealing with." Turning to the others, he let them ask their questions, uncertain what they might want to know.

(OOC - edited to clarify Balrik's question)

[meemaas]

Thea smiles absentmindedly. "Hajime isn't an assassin, he's a mercenary. He tried to hire myself and my allies to kill Dendu Vigorn once, and is an excellent swordsman. I don't know why he's working for Dendu now, but in the time it took for us to find him, he was already there. I've had personal contact with Dendu before, he's an excellent liar, and has used that to manipulate the king. The king on the other hand...."
As she speaks, Syntax butts in and takes over for her. "Aaran is a very intelligent man, with high ambitions. Dendu was able to use those ambitions to manipulate and control him easier. But be warned, Aaran is a very skilled warrior on his own accord."

[Down Comforter]

Listening from the corner, Krin nods absentmindedly as the barbarian questions the revolutionary.

"You hope to find the prince? You mean you don't know where he is?" She tilts her head. "What if he's dead? You're rather lost without him, aren't you? What with the royal blood in 'im and all."

[Starbin]

Balrik pondered the information. "So King Aran's ambitions made him easy prey to General Vigorn's manipulations. The General has hired this Katsumi, a one time enemy, to guard himself. The prince is missing, but you want him on the throne."

Thinking for a moment, he shook his head. "If Katsumi cares more for money than causes, hire him. Your hand will be stronger if you find the prince. We may be able to help you with this. Where and when was the prince last seen?"

[meemaas]

"Kinda. He said that Dendu stiffed him and that was why he wanted him dead. Whatever happened now, I don't know. I mean, i could try to hire him, but we don't know how much he's being paid to begin with. What if we pool everything our resistance has and don't have enough? What if...he takes the money and cuts us down? I don't think i'd trust him further than i could throw him." She shakes her head, her speaking having shown fear and a hint of weakness, she clears her throat before answering Krins question. "Delroy went into hiding when he was accused of murdering his father. It is my belief that when we remove Aaran from the throne, Delroy will come out from hiding. Its at least fairly likely to happen."

[Starbin]

Balrik frowned. "The mercenary can't be trusted? That's odd - and unprofitable. And if the prince hasn't been seen since the takeover, he could be dead, yes?" Glancing at the others to see if they had any questions, he turned back to Thea.

"What information do you have on our targets? Movements? Patterns? Tendancies? Weaknesses?"

Sorry - I was hoping to give the others a chance to speak. But with MM out-of-pocket, it looks like it's just me and DC :smallsmile:

[meemaas]

Thea gasps as the thought, but then regains her composure and starts speaking again. "I can't trust him. That's all i know. As for the prince. I hope he isn't dead, but then, there wouldn't be flyers for his bounty still going around if they killed him. Don't you agree?"

She looks to one of the elves in the corner and waves at him. "Hellier can help you with those questions."

The elf gets up and walks over to Balrik, looking over a few pages he snatched up on his way. "The guards are constantly on patrol. They keep eight hour shifts, alternating every four hours. Every guard knows the face of the guard that is meant to replace him. The General leaves the castle at roughly an hour after sundown every day, and returns only a few hours before sunrise, but he's the only one of our major enemies to have a predictable schedule. As for weaknesses. We haven't been able to find anything exploitable."

[Starbin]

Balrik shrugged at Thea's comments, wondering if there was more to her mistrust than she had said. As for the boy being dead, it still could be true - the bounty would still be there if the King and his men didn't know. Or it could be a ruse to give false hope and a potential lever to the current government.

Instead, he waited for the other reports from Hellier. After a moment, he asked, "Can you provide a man of the castle, and all the known entrances, no matter how small or 'impassable?' Also, where does the General go, and does he take an honor guard with him? Does he use the same route, or does he vary?"

[meemaas]

Hellier shakes his head. "I only know about the obvious entrances. The front gate, the kitchens door, the barracks door. And of course the balconies. I've never been able to get inside. The only person who has been inside is Syntax, actually. As for the General, he leaves alone. He always seems to go to the same place, a small clearing a few miles away. And he always takes the same path."

[Starbin]

Balrik frowned. "Wait, you said you were hoping to kill the General ... he goes alone to a clearing every night and he still lives? Why? What is he doing there?"

[Down Comforter]

Krin frowns, "It does seem odd that a man that helped organize a coup is so thoughtless to his own safety. Also that you haven't taken the opportunity to nab him."

She tilts her head towards Syntax, "And what role do you play that gets you access to the castle?"

[meemaas]

"There's...just something about him. I don't think there are any among us capable of capturing him even by surprise, except our leader. And if its a trap and he's just trying to lure us out...we can't risk losing her."

Syntax nods. "Thea is a stronger fighter than I am. But she's also the glue holding the people together. As for my role, I was part of the kings personal guard. While i was never supposed to be made privy to the secret entrances, I think i know where at least one is."

Balrik turns to Thea and addresses her personally. "Do you think you can get us in contact with the local thieves guild? And possibly any of the palace servants that leave the palace?" Turning to respond to Syntax next, he frowns at the information given. "If you know one, why haven't you just snuck in yourself?"

[Starbin]

As Balrik listened to the responses, he was aleady thinking of how they might exploit this new development ....

[meemaas]

Syntax shakes his head. "The one i know of leads into the dungeons. More than a few of the people there might recognize me, and have no love lost for me. I couldn't possibly risk going in and letting them be alerted. You three could though. Nobody knows you.."

[Starbin]

Balrik nodded. "Good. We need the castle layout, with all entrances marked and a map of the city and surrounding areas, with the general's route and camp marked. Additionally, guild contacts or palace servants who might be sympathetic to your cause.

Anything else we need to know? Or do you have any questions?" The last was said with a look at both the 'rebels' and his companions.

[Down Comforter]

"I am content. Well, as close as can be." With a wink, "Lead on, wise one."

[meemaas]

Hellier pulls out a small document and hands it to Balrik, and then walks away wordlessly, no longer having anything to contribute. Syntax on the other hand, smiles a little. "That was a poorly drawn map we could manage from my memories. I can't guarantee its perfect. As for people in the castle still loyal to us...I don't know if there are any."

[Starbin]

Balrik nodded to Syntax, reviewing the map for a moment. At Krin's comment, he raised an eyebrow. "I'm not wise, but I do prefer a methodical approach. That said, I think we should check the general's movements first. Then we can work on infilitrating the castle."

[meemaas]

Syntax sits down before Balrik and nods to him. "So whats your plan?"

[Morbis Meh]

Dagan had the most wonderful thought: Him singing a fantastically choreographed show tune whilst stabbing random people as rain fell down from the sky. Personally he hated meetings too much talk and second hand knowledge flowing freely like the raw excrement in a sewer, it was much better to get a first hand perspective at the situation. Like clockwork the tedious deliberations ended and the next phase of playtime was about to begin. Dagan yawned dramatically "I say we flood them with whores, plague ridden ones. No better way to take a castle than to catch them with their pants down BWHAHAHAHA!' Dashing over to Balrik the unstable man elbows him in the ribs "See what I did there, Ballsac? Catch them with their pants down, because in order to make use of the men and women of the streets on needs to have their pants down? Funny right? Maybe I missed my calling as a Jester, what do you think? Though after killing half of my clientele when they don't laugh at my creative genius might put a damper on that career choice."

[Starbin]

Balrik glanced at Syntax, ready to resond when suddenly Dagan came to life. At the man's rude comments, he simply stared, not wanting to be baited into an inane discussion on crude humor. Instead, he looked back to Syntax. "As stated, we check the general first. Tonight, we'll survey his movements, look for opportunities to capture, and/or kill him. Tomorrow, we'll investigate the castle."

Agree that we need to move, rather than spend a ton of time planning ... especially since nothing can kill a game quicker than bogging down with elaborate plans over several weeks real time. I say we watch the general and see if anything seems odd (is it a trap?). Before we take him, we infiltrate the castle and learn what we can. If we kill the general first, we might put the castle on alert, so that should happen after we learn more about the castle situation.

Sound good?

[Morbis Meh]

Not skipping a beat, Dagan perked up despite being ignored "Oh goody, we get to take an evening stroll through the woods, I am quite attached to my 'vigorous walks'. Shall we make it a picnic as well? I haven't had liver in ages maybe we could stop by a... butcher on the way out?"

[meemaas]

You three take a break to let time pass, chatting with the others in the hideout and otherwise amusing your time (Thea provides Dagan with plenty of crayons and asks him only to keep away from everyone else for fear of scaring them to a heart attack). As the day goes on, Hellier finally approaches Balrik to inform him that by their expected schedule, the General should be leaving shortly, and leads the party through the back alleys till they can observe him leaving. Hellier then takes his leave, allowing you to manage on your own from here on out.

As you lie in wait, you notice a well dressed man that fits the description of the general leaving the castle, and moving briskly down the road out of town. You follow at a safe distance, and once out of the city, you make sure to keep densely into the trees. Dendu keeps on his path, never once looking behind him, as though he has no cares in the world. After about an hour of walking, he stops in a small clearly man cleared clearing with a small altar, and kneels before it to begin praying.

Giving you a chance to do as you will, and if you had anything you wanted to do before leaving, feel free to post that too.

[Starbin]

Balrik watched the man carefully, wondering who he prayed to ... or what he prayed for. Waiting patiently, he looked about for indications that the general used this clearing as his camp, or if a trail led elsewhere.

[meemaas]

A quick survey of the surroundings finds no other discernable path. As you watch him pray, you find nothing that leads you to recognize the altar as to any god you know of, but the distance and time of day make it hard to be sure. After a few moments of praying, you can feel a powerful influx of magic coming from the center, as though someone, or something, has chosen to answer the generals prayer.

You are welcome to a knowledge (religion) check to see if you can recognize anything.

[Starbin]

Balrik glanced back at the other two, uncertain if they recognized anything, then continued to watch. He was more interested now that it seemed the general had been answered. Hopefully it was not in the way of alerting him to their presence ...

Yeah, I would have totally rolled for KS Religion, if I had it. However, unless it's DC 10, I'm guessing it's a moot point for me.

[Morbis Meh]

Dagan was growing antsy, watching some chump kneel in a clearing was not his idea of a moonlit stroll, not enough blood or screaming for his liking. The rapid change in the atmosphere was interesting but it just made Dagan want to kill the stooge more being that he is in the middle of something and disrupting it would be to their advantage. Not to mention allowing said target to complete whatever it was doing ran the risk of the target becoming harder to kill, yes challenge was all well and good but increasing risk to ones' profession usually resulted in the permanent ending of said profession. The assassin looks to his nanny and runs a finger across his throat expectantly, hoping to be let off of his leash.

[meemaas]

The General continues his prayer, and begins mumbling quietly to the altar, a formless being coming into being in front of him. It seems to listen intently to him, while he speaks calmly and quietly, as though worried someone might be listening in to his conversation.

[Starbin]

Balrik mentally sighed, knowing that one several levels he agreed with Dagan's desire to end the general's role in this affair tonight. However, he also did not like the idea of leaving valuable intel behind. In any engagement, one had to weigh the benefit of acting versus the price of not ... and vice versa.

As the apparition appeared, he perked up, wondering who or what this creature was that the general sought counsel with. Shaking his head to the request to attack, he signaled to his two companions to spread out and move a little closer. If they could hear what the general was saying ...

He also considered that this might be the beginnings of a trap for them, so he stayed alert for a change in advantage.

Slide up a bit, listen in on his talking. Or at least that's the idea :smallbiggrin:

[meemaas]

Balrik, and momentarily afterwards, Dagan sneak up closer to the General to try and eavesdrop better on him. The two slip into a bush as close to the man as they dare to go, listening closely to try and overhear him. Balrik finds it hard to hear his muttering, but Dagan, possibly due to his old age, or maybe his lack of sanity, seems to hear the conversation better.

"What news do you have of our enemies?" He pauses as though listening to a response that makes no noise. "So they must have arrived already." Another pause. "You mean they're aren't the ones I was searching for?"

After a few moments, he lifts his head up as though alerted to something, and begins looking carefully around, no longer focused on his altar.

[Morbis Meh]

Dagan quietly stands in place, secretly hoping that this target would detect him because honestly, Dagan was growing bored. Recon was indeed valuable but this was almost like watching paint dry, hearing a one sided conversation in the middle of nowhere was not going to amount to a whole lot. A sudden desire to break out into song rose within him but Dagan reluctantly quelled the feeling ruthlessly, he would wait and observe like a good little lap dog... for now.

[meemaas]

After another moment, the General turns in Dagan's general direction, and shoots out his hand. As he does, a lion forms into being close to Dagan, and with a quick roar, it launches itself at him. Extending its claws it attempts to shred its way through the old man. Some ways behind it, the man commanding it yells at him. "Kill them!!"

Pounce

Attack roll [roll0]
Damage [roll1]
Grapple [roll2]

Attack roll [roll3]
Damage [roll4]

Attack roll [roll5]
Damage [roll6]

Dagan is Grappled.

Dagan
General/Summon
Balrik

[Starbin]

The situation suddenly erupted into chaos as the general summoned a lion that attack Dagan. Rising up swiftly, he slid to the opposite side of the lion and shifted into one of his many battle stances, intent on taking this beast down quickly so they could deal with the general. With both arms raised high and in front, he lashed out, once, then twice, his kicks striking with deadly powering and accuracy.

Hoping it's a free action to rise to our feet! Swift action to adopt Pugilist Stance (unarmed attacks do +1d6 more damage). 5ft step to flank, if necessary. Flurry of Blows on lion.
[roll0], [roll1]
[roll2], [roll3]
Current readied maneuvers: Flurry Strike, Flat Iron Riposte, Shards of Iron Strike
Current Stance: Pugilist
AC 23; HPs 36/36; F +7 R +9 W +3
Effects: stance (+1d6 to unarmed attacks);

[Morbis Meh]

Reeling from the onslaught by the oversize tabby, Dagan snarled and counter attacked before winking out of space and appearing in the trees up and away from the bloody cat. Atop his perch he re positions himself to get the best possible vantage point.

Dagan 31/39 HP AC 21
attack [roll0]
damage [roll1]

move action is to teleport into a tree and uses a swift action to get into poisoner's stance


dear god the dice gods are being exceptionally cruel to me since I've been back

[meemaas]

Dagan strikes out, his attack missing, but his body moving to a safer spot. As he does, he glimpses the general fleeing towards the woods, after a fair distance retreat, Dendu begins a spell, as if preparing another trap for his foes. Meanwhile, back on the ground, Balrik repositions himself to start pummeling the lion, while the lion turns and retaliates at him in turn.

Lion full attack

Bite [roll0]
Damage [roll1]

Claw [roll2]
Damage [roll3]

Claw [roll4]
Damage [roll5]

[Starbin]

Balrik slipped left, then right, then right, avoiding all three of the lion's attacks. Stepping in, he lashed out with one knee, then spun and attacked with his opposite elbow. Without looking up, he called to Dagan, "Get the general, while I handle the lion."

Another full action to flurry of blows vs the lion.
[roll0], [roll1]
[roll2], [roll3]

EDIT: Here's hoping 60+ damage takes this summoned beastie out!
Current readied maneuvers: Flurry Strike, Flat Iron Riposte, Shards of Iron Strike
Current Stance: Pugilist
AC 23; HPs 36/36; F +7 R +9 W +3
Effects: stance (+1d6 to unarmed attacks);

[Morbis Meh]

Dagan grumbles and hops down from his perch then quickly fires at the fleeing general with his tube shooter.

acrobatics [roll0] I assume he makes it down just fine and is able to move 20 ft closer making it only a -4 penalty to hit... at least he loses his dex to AC due to fleeing

Manuever (Sting of the Asp)
to hit [roll1]
Damage dart [roll2]
damage manuver [roll3]
DC vs poison Fort 16

[meemaas]

As the tiger falls and disperses into the magical energy used to summon it, Dagan hops down and launches an attack at the General. Unfortunately his aim, possibly shifted by the sudden movement, is terribly poor, and the General simply tilts his head to avoid the attack like it was nothing. In return, the General waves out his hands, and vanishes where he stands, as though he were never there.

So, through a mistake of memory, this fight ended a bit faster than I had originally expected, lol.

[Starbin]

With the creature banished, Balrik looked in the direction of the general, then frowned slightly as he glanced back at Dagan. "Our advantage is gone. Best we leave quickly. We might be able to end around ..."

Barring something else from Dagan, Balrik wants to head back swiftly, but at an angle that takes us away, then parallel to the direction the general ran off.

Current readied maneuvers: Flurry Strike, Flat Iron Riposte, Shards of Iron Strike
Current Stance: Pugilist
AC 23; HPs 36/36; F +7 R +9 W +3
Effects: stance (+1d6 to unarmed attacks);

[Morbis Meh]

Dagan simply shrugs and follows behind, whistling happily.

[meemaas]

You go after the General for only a moment before realizing that he went away from town. Keeping an eye out in case he comes back, you instead check out the altar he was praying at. Inscribed into it is a language you cannot comprehend, and set in the center of the writing is a single gemstone. Prying it out of its place doesn't seem to have any poor side effects, and a quick examination of it gives you an eerie, almost magical feeling is buried deep within it. Whether you take it or not, you turn back the way you came and take a brisk pace heading back. Keeping your senses about you, you survey the area through the darkness of night as you get closer to the town.

Not far from the edge of the forest, Dagan stops and dives into a bush, after seeing the mans surprise reaction, Balrik, not waiting to question him, dives into a bush opposite the path from Dagan and waits for the older man.

You heard several voices ahead, hushed but still there, along with footsteps that appeared to be getting closer.

I hope you don't mind my choosing your choices there, I felt that would be what you would do, Dagan especially, since as an assassin, he wouldn't shoot into headfirst combat if he could get the element of surprise, right?

Also, let me know if you take the gemstone. Just for future reference.

[Starbin]

The odd altar isn't anything Balrik recognizes, and while the gem was easily removable, it was not something he planned on doing ... too many chances at something bad happening. Instead, he motioned to the assassin to circle back - hopefully they could catch the general returning to the castle.

As they walked back, Dagan suddenly leapt into the bushes, drawing a raised eyebrow from Balrik, who, after a momentary pause, followed suite swiftly. It was difficult to tell if the eccentric man was actually hiding from something, or simply being odd. Keeping a low profile, the warder scanned the woods and surrounding area, uncertain what they were looking for.

I figure I'm done waiting for Dagan to illuminate me :smallsmile: Time to push this thing along. [roll0] Not sure what's going on yet, but Balrik will wait until something happens ... in Pugilist stance :smallsmile:

PS - meemaas, no problem with you acting on our behalf where it makes sense!

Current readied maneuvers: Flurry Strike, Flat Iron Riposte, Shards of Iron Strike
Current Stance: Pugilist
AC 23; HPs 36/36; F +7 R +9 W +3
Effects: stance (+1d6 to unarmed attacks)

[Morbis Meh]

Dagan gracefully leaps into the bushes, almost giddy with excitement, this was his sure fire way to be allowed to slit some throats, maybe even torture some information out of someone... The giddiness died when he remembered this was a scouting mission and killing a patrol was never a good idea. Grumbling he silently waited in the bush until they could discern who was walking by, he thought he should get a business card stating he was the king of the bushes considering since his release he had seen his fair share of brambles.

[meemaas]

As our two heroes lie in waiting for whatever comes, a group of what appears to be soldiers comes up the path. The two in front seem to be talking about women, while the ones in back are talking more about their orders. From what you can piece together, since they clearly aren't trying for stealth, they were ordered to head that way to route off potential assassins. However, they seem to have not recognized the parties presence, and pass by unknowingly.

[Starbin]

Balrik raised his hand towards Dagan, indicating they should hold. Once the patrol had passed, they could wait a few moments for the General to potentially walk this way ... then return to their rebel compatriots. He was somewhat disappointed they had blown an opportunity to watch the General and gather intelligence upon his actions ... but he was equally disappointed that once their surveillance was discovered they had failed to kill the man. Forewarned was forearmed, and now the General knew he was no longer safe going out at night.

That, or he was arrogant enough to try it again, perhaps attempting to ambush the ambushers. Time would tell ...

Let 'em go by, wait a bit for the general, then head back.

Current readied maneuvers: Flurry Strike, Flat Iron Riposte, Shards of Iron Strike
Current Stance: Pugilist
AC 23; HPs 36/36; F +7 R +9 W +3
Effects: stance (+1d6 to unarmed attacks)

[meemaas]

The duo makes their way back to town with no other roadblocks, and sneak safely through the backstreets back to the hideout. They slip in and find Thea, wide eyed and intent on them as though she had been waiting the entire time for them to arrive. "What did you find out? Were you caught? We got word of a unit being sent out unusually late."

[Morbis Meh]

Dagan grins "Information? I thought dear Ballsac and I were just having a merry midnight sojourn through the woods, all that really happened was we heard some guy muttering to himself about people arriving and they weren't the ones he was searching for. Oh and I was partially mauled by a lion, I think it will leave a pretty impressive scar. Chicks still dig scars in this era right?"

[Starbin]

Balrik simply gazed at the woman for a moment, then shook his head. She must be used to dealing with amateurs. "No, we were not captured. As Dagan said, we found the general has an ally; he is searching for someone; and he possesses magic. There is a mystic gem at his altar - we left it."

Pausing, he thought for a moment, then spoke. "When did the patrol depart?"

[meemaas]

"The patrol left roughly an hour or so ago. We were worried about you, they aren't sent out like that after hours normally." After a sigh of relief, she moves back to her seat, waiting for whatever else you have to say on the subject.

That time frame fits roughly into the time frame it would have taken for the group you meet. Based on your reckoning, you have another two hours or so before they may return, based on the trip there and back.

[Starbin]

Balrik mused for a moment. "We have another opportunity - if the patrol is to escort the general, we could ambush them. We'd be at a disadvantage, but it may be worth it. Otherwise, the general knows two more pieces have entered the game and our mission may be tougher."

[meemaas]

Thea thinks for a second. and then smiles. "We could do that. Would you like some support, or would you rather do it yourselves? Either way is fine with me, I'll defer to your opinion on this."

[Morbis Meh]

Dagan began pacing about, feeling antsy "Listen, tootz, heal me up and I will kill anything for you for free! More people would only slow Ballsac and I down, right pal? I know I was only an overglorifed chew toy last time but I've been locked in the slammer for the past 50 years! Ambush also means stealth and more people jeopardize such objectives."

[Starbin]

Balrik thought for a moment, then stood walked over to whatever maps the group had of the surrounding area. "Dagan and I will engage the general and his escort, anticipating he'll come back along a route here. Take a small group of trusted soldiers and wait here," he pointed to a spot less than half a mile away, "and stay hidden. If we must retreat, we'll hopefully lead them into another trap ... or have a second chance at attacking."

Does this make sense? Basically, D&B try to intercept the group on their way back, with Thea and her troops in reserve.

[meemaas]

Thea glares at Dagan, still fairly perturbed whenever he opens his mouth. She sighs before addressing him first. "I liked you better when you were quiet." She then waves over one of the other people in the room, and asks him to provide a little healing.

The elf that comes over carries a Holy symbol and is otherwise dressed in fairly clunky armor, as though he were afraid to be without it. He places his hands on Dagan, allowing his magic to heal the Assassin's wounds before looking at Balrik and deciding he doesn't need any healing.

Cure [roll0] HP to Dagan

While he is doing that, Thea speaks with Balrik, hoping that the healer keeps Dagan occupied so he cannot offend her any further. "Alright, I can have my guys lay in wait at the edge of the forest. Myself, Syntax, and two of our stealthiest spies should be good to get the jump on them when they retreat. I'll go out and get them together right away. Best of luck to you on your preemptive ambush." Before she leaves, she pulls out two small potions, labeled healing, and hands them to Balrik, and then heads out the door, quickly vanishing into the night.

Two potions of CL 3 Cure Moderate Wounds

[Starbin]

Balrik nodded to the woman, slipping the potions into his pack. "Any more maps of the area? Any other known trails they might use?"

Once everyone was ready, he motioned to Dagan. "Let's go."

Head out, try to place ourselves on the most viable looking intercept path for the direction we saw the soldiers heading and approximately where we think we lost the general.

[Morbis Meh]

Dagan looks to Balrik and gently nudges him in the ribs "Hey Ballsy ole pal, what do you think my chances with that fiesty dame are? I think she likes me, I know I am the definition of sexy beast and I thrive off of the bachelor lifestyle but I think it might be a good change of pace to settle down and bring the joy of little Dagans to the world. I know it would break so many hearts like the Queen, she has it so bad for me it must be my Bad Guy image, but I feel this broad could take a couple of assassination attempts in the name of love. Help out and you totally have secured the best man position at the wedding and if you play your cards right maybe even god father, though that seems also very likely since everyone I used to know is dead but that's because i got bored and stabbed them."

[meemaas]

Thea pulls a small hand drawn map off of Helliers table and hands it to Balrik before she leaves. "This should be useful for you." As she goes to leave again, she stops at the door to hear Dagan's rant, and turns to glare at him. "I wouldn't touch you even in your dreams. Hell, I'd sooner marry a corpse than so much as touch your sorry ass for more even a split second. In other words, stop dreaming, you pig." As soon as her rant is over, she goes out the door, slamming it shut behind her to show her irritation.

I almost considered this rant instead. "You racist, disgendered, patriarch propagating, misogynistic PIG!!" But it just didn't QUITE fit.

[Starbin]

Accepting the map, Balrik didn't react to Dagan's spouting off, nor Thea's vitriolic response. He watched silently as she stalked off. After a moment, he glanced at Dagan and said, deadpan, "Slim to nonexistent."

[Morbis Meh]

Dagan blows a kiss after Thea "Not at all, those words make her feelings quite clear, she is utterly enamored by me my good man. See that seething rage? Not even a married couple of 30 years could reach such levels of disgust! She is just playing hard to get, I will craft a few paintings for her to woo her later but first to get the paint...."

[meemaas]

A few of the people left in the room chuckle a little at the exchange, before quickly turning their heads away to avoid being noticed by the assassin. The two 'best' friends head out and make their way back out of town, using the map Balrik obtained to try and choose a suitable location to place their ambush. After some amount of deliberation, the two settle on a spot where multiple paths intersect, and settle in for the wait.

Please make stealth and perception checks. Along with any pre-combat actions you may have in mind.

[Morbis Meh]

Dagan shifts into position and prepares for the upcoming slaught... 'handling' of the patrol while selecting an appropriate song to sing during the fun.
Stealth [roll0]
Perception [roll1]
It appears Dagan is too preoccupied with his song selection to be bothered paying attention to the road but then again 20 armed guards should be somewhat easy to notice...
He will be in the pugilist stance and if has time he would like to swap out one maneuver for another (Sting of the Asp to Offensive Roll)

[Starbin]

Balrik assumed a similar stance, crouching in a readied position on the balls of his feet. As he waited, his eyes scanned the woods for signs of their prey.

Watching and waiting. [roll0]; [roll1]. If he detects folks coming, Balrik will drink a mage armor potion.
Status
Current readied maneuvers: Flurry Strike, Flat Iron Riposte, Steel Flurry Strike
Current Stance: Pugilist
AC 22; HPs 36/36; F +7 R +9 W +3
Effects: stance (+1d6 to unarmed attacks);

[meemaas]

The pair wait carefully, and after a fair amount of time, they hear the group returning. Before the group gets into ambush position though, one of them, the one in the center, stops the entire thing. "Men, keep your eyes peeled. I heard something unusual." They as a group move carefully, checking everything, and one of them calls out. "I found something!!!" With only a moment to react, Balrik realizes that he didn't hide quite well enough, and the man calling out was looking at him.

There are ten of them, traveling in a near square formation, with two men in the center as though protected from the rest. Most are wearing typical chainmail and carrying swords of varying sizes, while the two in the center stand out. One carries a lute while the other a heavy mace and shield, he appears to be a man of leadership.

Dagan retains the benefits of the surprise round, but Balrik has lost it. After that, the party has the initiative. I've decided to go with group initiative, based on the highest initiative roll, which none of this group has a chance of beating Dagans.

[Starbin]

As the soldiers marched up, Balrik down the potion in his hand and prepared to strike from the side undetected. However, some movement or uncovered part of his body drew the attention of one of the soldiers and he was seen! With a flicker of frustration, Balrik leapt forward, knowing he needed to make the most of his slight advantage as he could.

Flowing out, he approached where he could attack three of the guards quickly, his fists and feet flicking out like steel blades as he pressed his advantage.

Alright, I'm guessing our targets look like this:

S S S
S B S
S C S
S S S

S: Soldier, B: Bard (lute-carrier); C: Cleric (mace/shield). If so, Balrik will move action to close with the front three soliders and use Steel Flurry Strike as a standard action to make 3 attacks at full BAB w/-2 to hit (successful hits inflict +3d6 dam/hit, and stance adds another +1d6/hit). He'll attack the middle S first, striking until he's dead, then move on to the others left and right (if he gets lucky and these guys aren't TOO tough, he might strike all three!). Basic plan is to open access up to the bard quickly.
[roll0], [roll1]
[roll2], [roll3]
[roll4], [roll5]

Of course, if there is space to stand between the soldiers and the two protected folks, Balrik could Acrobatic roll to get to that space and attack the bard first. Presuming no one has Combat Reflexes, that would mean no AOOs from them first round :smallsmile: If that's the case, I'm guessing the Acrobatics roll is more to get there, not to avoid a hit, but maybe it's not even necessary. [roll6] If he gets to the bard, same concept, hit him until he drops then work on the soldiers around.

Status
Current readied maneuvers: Flurry Strike, Flat Iron Riposte, Steel Flurry Strike
Current Stance: Pugilist
AC 27; HPs 36/36; F +7 R +9 W +3
Effects: stance (+1d6 to unarmed attacks); mage armor (+4 AC, 1 hour)

[Morbis Meh]

Dagan mutters at Ballsac's discovery, he would have to tell him to slim down that fat arse of his so it didn't stick out so readily but at the very least they didn't know he was there and he sprung into action. In a blink he was on the far side of the column bellowing out in his horrid singing voice "THE HILLS ARE ALIVE WITH THE SOUND OF SSSCCCCRREEEEAAAMMMMINNNNG, With cries they have sung for a thousand yeeeeeaaars! The hills fill my heart with the sound of the dying!" and as he reaches the crescendo he lashes out wish his fist.

Surprise Round:
Fading strike to get to the other side of the column thus coordinating possible flanking opportunities with dear old Balrik, so the attack is the person directly in front of him that flanks the bard.
to hit [roll0]
damage [roll1] + [roll2]

First Round:
Boost: Flick of the wrist
Targeting is not person directly in front of Dagan but the one of the other soldiers to his right
Full round
to hit [roll3]
damage [roll4] + [roll5]

to hit [roll6]
damage [roll7] + [roll8]

if both hit here is the CMB for disarm [roll9]

[meemaas]

Before the unit can react to the knowledge of Balrik's discovery, Dagan appears out of nowhere on the far side of the formation and strikes out at one of the outer edge guards, his strike unfortunately going wide, possibly due to his extreme enthusiasm. He then turns to another one and strikes out with much more calculated strikes, knocking this one out despite failing to rip the weapon from his grip. Before he even hits the ground, Balrik launches out from his side rolling to the front of the formation and lets out a flurry of strikes, causing each of them to fall to the ground. The one in the center, carrying the mace, lurches forward to Balrik and yells back at his men. "I'll take this one, you guys take on the other!!" As he circles around his lieutenant, he launches a studied strike with his mace, hoping to take Balrik out of the fight quickly. Meanwhile the others circle around Dagan, launching a number of attacks at him while the Bard backs away, and starts playing a song on his lute, enhancing the morale of his troops.

Captain: Untimely Repose
Attack roll [roll0]
Damage [roll1] + [roll2]
Will save DC 16 or fall asleep

Bard starts Inspire Courage

String of attacks
Guard 1 [roll3]
Damage [roll4]

Guard 2 [roll5]
Damage [roll6]

Guard 3 [roll7]
Damage [roll8]

Guard 4 [roll9]
Damage [roll10]

The first and third guards are using shortswords, the second a longsword, the last a greatsword.

[Morbis Meh]

The sudden blow causes Dagan's 'performance' to cut out "HEY! I WAS SINGING OVER HERE! GOD DAMN UNCULTURED HOOLIGANS AND YOUR LACK OF MUSICAL APPRECIATION!" He lashes out at the poor sod that hit him then promptly springs away and leaps up to the bard "Oh what a treat, a kindred soul of the arts, shall we sing a duet? I go bass and you sing falsetto? "

Standar: Swift claws on the soldier that managed to hit Dagan
Attack 1 [roll0]
damage [roll1] + [roll2]

Attack 2 [roll3]
damage [roll4] + [roll5]

Move: Acrobatics towards the bard and to avoid AoO
[roll6]

[Starbin]

As quickly as the fight had started, four soldiers were already down. While the majority of remaining enemies focused on Dagan, the leader moved to 'handle' Balrik. Side-stepping the man's attack, he shifted his balance to lash out with both hands, this time open to rake his opponent with extended claws.

Five foot step, full attack to use both claws.

[roll0], Damage = [roll1] + [roll2] =31 (with crit damage)
[roll3], Damage = [roll4] + [roll5] = 15 if it hits

Status
Current readied maneuvers: Flurry Strike, Flat Iron Riposte, Steel Flurry Strike
Current Stance: Pugilist
AC 27; HPs 36/36; F +7 R +9 W +3
Effects: stance (+1d6 to unarmed attacks); mage armor (+4 AC, 1 hour)

[meemaas]

Balrik launches a powerful and direct strike into the captains gut, causing him to collapse into the ground, unable to stand back up but still alive. Meanwhile Dagan fails to hit the guard that hit him with his first strike, but manages to take it down with a follow up strike, he then rolls through the others and catches up with the Bard, who backs away in fear. The remaining guards, seeing their captain collapse, turn and launch themselves at Balrik. "Nooooo!!!"

As a free action, the Bard drops his lute and then takes a withdraw action to try and escape Dagan

Guard 1 [roll0]
Damage [roll1]

Guard 2 [roll2]
Damage [roll3]

Guard 3 [roll4]
Damage [roll5]

[Morbis Meh]

Dagan charges after the silly performer "HEY! I WAS TALKING TO YOU, WE COULD HAVE MADE SUCH BEAUTIFUL MUSIC TOGETHER!" Leaping into the air he throws his weight into a single punch full of hurt from being rejected.

CHARGE!
to hit
dmg [roll]1d4=7 + [roll1]

[Morbis Meh]

Sorry for the dble post here be the damage roll [roll0]

[Starbin]

Assessing the threat of the downed captain, Balrik turned as the other soldiers rushed in to attack, apparently seeking revenge. He calmly stepped to face as many as possible, before lashing out swiftly.

Five foot step to avoid any flanks, then attacking with flurry of blows. Concentrate on one opponent until they drop. If Dagan is w/in 10', he gets +1 morale bonus to AC/Will.

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

Status
Current readied maneuvers: Flurry Strike, Flat Iron Riposte, Steel Flurry Strike
Current Stance: Pugilist
AC 27; HPs 36/36; F +7 R +9 W +3
Effects: stance (+1d6 to unarmed attacks); mage armor (+4 AC, 1 hour)

[meemaas]

The Bard drops everything and continues to run, but Dagan lashes out with a single attack before he can get away, slicing a powerful wound into the musician and causing him to collapse like the others. Balrik lets out a series of powerful punches, and after deflecting one last attack, strikes once more to take out the last of the guards. As the last of the group falls, the two find themselves singlehandedly victorious.

I fast forwarded the last round since it was a forgone conclusion, without buffs, only a natural 20 can cause these guys to hit Balrik, and the bard is useless except for support.

Is there anything you guys want to do with the unconscious and (some dead) bodies?

[Starbin]

Watching Dagan eye the bodies, Balrik moved to search the bodies quickly. Once completed, he nodded to the other man. "Help move the bodies. But I wander where the general is."

Search for goodies and move. Might need to let Dagan have his way with the bodies (after they are moved) to mask who killed them. We'll see.

[meemaas]

A search of the bodies find most of them carrying pretty much exactly what you saw from the start. Six men wearing Chain Mail, four with longswords, one with a short sword, and one with a greatsword. The captain has a well made mace and a fancy heavy shield, along with full plate armor and a few unmarked potions in his bag. The Bard on the other hand carries a few scrolls, his lute, and an unusual gem.

What do you take, and how do you plan on hiding the bodies?

[Starbin]

Balrik took the bag with the potions and filled it with the scrolls, the gem and the mace (wrapped in a torn shirt). Pulling the bodies off the trail, he motioned for Dagan to take move up the trail and listen for signs of anyone coming. While it might take longer, better to have ears and eyes watching for additional troops. He would split the bodies between each side of the road, ensuring they were at least a couple of paces away from the path and covered up with some branches or bushes - a rush job to be sure, but the best they could do right now. Of course, he was still concerned about the general, but maybe the man had returned by some other method.

Once they were done, they could set up a little further from their last ambush point and wait to see if anyone else came. If an hour passed and no one come, he'd motion to Dagan to return back and rally with Thea and her men in reserve. Describing where they ambushed the folks, he would tell her quietly"There's weapons and armor your people could use ... including full plate and a good shield. Let's get back and check these items."

Balrik's only concern is with the gem - if it looks similar to the one in the altar, he'll be reluctant to bring it back to the headquarters ... instead, he'll meet with one of Thea's wizardly types away from town to check it. Don't want to bring a scrying stone back to the secret lair!

[Morbis Meh]

Dagan glumly follows his companions orders "What a waste of perfectly good corpses... I am still making the bard into a puppet though." After decapitating the bard and mounting the severed head onto a random stick, Dagan began sketching a crude finger painting of Thea out of blood like he promised he would before leaving.

When they caught up with Thea he hands her the blood spattered parchment to her and does his best to pretend to be a ventriloquist, using the bard's head as a dummy "Here you go pretty lady, the totally nice, handsome and not psychotic man her drew this work of art for you. I don't know how you can resist such potent charms, if I were you I would be throwing myself at him screaming 'take me now!'" Dagan chuckles to himself "My you are such a flatterer Banjo, the poor lady here is really busy you know, hence why she won't give in to her baser desires until she is finished with her mission. It is quite an admirable trait not to mention I am flattered she is saving herself for me."

[meemaas]

The remainder of the stakeout goes without any further events, and the two return to meet with Thea. After Balrik informs her of the gear left behind, she sends a few people to mark the area and clean it out later. Balrik is directed towards her groups wizard, just far enough away that he isn't there for the fallout from Dagan's latest attempt to mess with her.

Thea acts like she's puking from the display, and swats the severed head away almost faster than Dagan can see. She glares at him and spouts out in anger. "You are a monster. A hideous monster. I should kill you on the spot." She draws her scimitar and brandishes it towards Dagan, as though threatening him with it. "But the Queen recommended you..." She turns and walks away from him, trying her best to escape him without further conversation.

Meanwhile, the wizard, who you learn is named Pol, meanwhile takes his time to try and identify what you've collected. The potions come out to be two potions of CLW, and one of CMW (minimum caster level), the scrolls contain the spells Mount, Shield, and Grease. The gem on the other hand is nonmagical, worth about 200gp

[Morbis Meh]

Dagan feints distress "Oh poor sweet Bajo! Look at what she did to you while completely taken over by her passion for me, you are too beautiful for this world!" Dagan cradles the head and strokes it gently for a moment before sighing "Well, enough with this for now, I could really go for a sandwich right at this moment." He tosses the head into the bushes and goes off whistling towards someone in hopes of convincing them to make him a sandwich.

[Starbin]

Balrik pondered the items for a moment before he nodded his thanks to the mage. Pushing the scrolls towards the wizard, he put the potions in his pack and slipped the gem into his pouch. "Inform me if the armor or weapons are magic."

When he returned to the main area, he was confronted by Dagan pestering anyone he could find for a sandwich, and Thea fuming silently away from the assassin. It didn't take a genius to realize something had occurred between the two of them, but Balrik rarely cared about emotional displays or interpersonal conflicts ... unless they hampered his ability to succeed at his task at hand. Who could remember the bickerings of the ancestors? Who would remember this? No one ... all that any would remember was whether this 'coup' was successful; they would either be painted as villains or heroes by future bards, and those threads were already woven.

With an inward sigh, Balrik moved to intercept Thea, motioning her to the side. "Notify me immediately if your spies see the general return." Reaching out, he handed her the gem. At her glance, he nodded curtly for her to take it. "A ... donation. To your cause." Turning, he went to find a place to rest; tomorrow would come early, regardless of how much rest he had - best he get as much as possible.

[meemaas]

Thea smiles and nods, pocketing the gem as Balrik walks off. Everyone splits up and returns to base, where Thea arranges a place for the party to stay in one of their hideouts. The night passes uneventfully, and when Balrik and Dagan come to meet with Thea the next morning she informs him that the general appears to have returned without ever passing one of her spies, having been seen in the castle just this morning.

She updates Balrik on the rest of the gear they retrieved, most of which has already been used to outfit some of her members. "Now that we've handled the basic business, would you like to help us with our business today, or are you going to do your own thing?"

Most of the armor and weapons weren't even masterwork, except the full plate. If you want that, you're welcome to it, but the remainder has already been taken by her people.

[Starbin]

Balrik nodded at Thea for her to proceed. "What do you need?"

He knew they were here to help the group, so his intent was to provide whatever assistance was necessary - however, if the task seemed to be a waste of their talents, or counter-productive to the overall effort, then he would decline. For now, he kept the potions and the well-crafted mace ... perhaps there would be a time they needed such weapons ...

I'm guessing the mace was just MW, too, right?

[Morbis Meh]

Dagan smirked "Simply ask my delicate Lilly and I shall slew even an orphanage in your name! Or if you prefer I can stay here paint a portrait of you... just need some 'supplies'." The deranged man smiled brightly at both suggestions but personally felt more inclined to get out and stab something.

[meemaas]

"Besides our normal routines, we have plans to ambush a trade caravan of military supplies. If we can take it apart before it gets too far, we can delay the start of the war just a little bit longer. I also have a few people keeping track of guard adjustments. From what we've learned over the night, they have gone on alert after the patrol you ambushed failed to return." Thea takes a deep breath and closes her eyes, as if trying to find an inner peace with the words coming from Dagan's mouth.

Yes, the Mace is masterwork.

[Starbin]

Ignoring Dagan, Balrik nodded at Thea. "First, what are your 'normal' routines, and where do you see us helping. Second, for the ambush, what are the details? Numbers? Guard compliment? Route? Date? Your plan of attack?" He wanted to start on the details to approach this from a methodical approach, if they had enough time. Either way, he would study the map and Thea's proposed plan of attack.

Not sure I have anything pertinent to use, but I guess an Int check might prepare for an ambush. [roll0]. Otherwise, ready to hear her grand plan.

[meemaas]

I'm not completely functioning tonight, too tired, so pretend this is in character even though i'm just doing bullet points.

Normal Routines: Spying, tracking troop movement, following potential recruits, and manipulating to get information.

Ambush: Due today, later in the day. Expected to go to a town two days out. They expect 12 to 14 guards alongside the caravan and three civilians. Their possible plan was to attack about an hour out of town, knock out or kill all the guards, and take the civilians and all the weaponry into custody so that it vanishes from their supply route.

Thea believes that you two would be much more effective on that ambush than the group she had planned on originally, after seeing the work you did yesterday.

[Starbin]

Listening carefully, Balrik glanced at Dagan, pondering the best plan. "Two hours from town? What about catching them camped? Who are the civilians? How many are you taking? We'll help, but there are better ambush opportunities. Let's check the map." He realized the further away the caravan was attacked, the further they would have to travel to return, but if it increased the chances of success and reduced casualties, it would be worth it. Patience and planning were critical for a guerilla force to be successful against a regular force ...

Just working through some more questions - no hurry!

[Morbis Meh]

Dagan pouts "Killing people while they sleep is not as fun but I suppose we could do it your way Ballsac old pal, just because it is your birthday! They'll be on edge due to our last escapade so catching them off guard will be a little more difficult so it would be best to strike at a later time in their travels so they grow complacent that nothing is going to happen. Also getting them to split up would simplify matters, maybe drug them with some sleeping poison?"

[meemaas]

"They likely wouldn't make camp until at least half a day out based on their projected time to leave. Ultimately, I trust your judgement and discretion in this situation. I can put you in command of a few of my newer folks to back you up, and leave the rest up to you. As for the civilians, they seem to be shopkeepers or shopworkers that were brought to work for them."

[Starbin]

Balrik paused for a moment, staring at Thea, then looking back at Dagan. Since they were alone, he decided to be blunt. "Is this going to be a problem?" At whatever looks he got, he would simply stare back for a moment then speak again. "You had plans to ambush a caravan. I must presume you were not going to send your newest members by themselves, if at all. Why would you send green recruits to 'aid' us in aiding you? Either you have overconfidence in our abilities, or you're stepping back because of this." He pointed to the two again.

"He is a psychotic killer who feeds off discord; but he will not touch you without permission - there is too much at stake for him. But if you cannot be professional and ignore his endless invective, then tell me now."

Dagan is not the only charismatic winner here :smalltongue:

[Morbis Meh]

Dagan's face contorts with offence "HEY, wait a minute, you forgot sadistic and borderline narcissist. I have a certificate for that one and if you are going to list my achievements then get it right otherwise you will simply embarrass me. You are right, we can't let our passionate romance cloud our true purpose here." He looks to Thea with sad eyes "I am sorry my sweet but until I have successfully slaughtered everyone I am told to I will have to deny you my intoxicating man musk and hypnotizing presence for the good of the cause. I know this will cause you immeasurable pain but for the sake of true love you must bear this pain for the lives of our future children are at stake... or future dogs because at least you can legally eat dogs if you are bored, starving or sick of them making noise but we will discuss that after our honeymoon."

[meemaas]

"It has nothing to do with him. I'm starting to get used to his meaningless prattle. Or rather, I tune it out and pretend like i'm not hearing it. As for why I wish to send some of my green recruits with you, rather than some of my best. It is because your abilities have already impressed me. You took out one of the higher ranking captains in the Gestorn army and didn't come out with much in the way of injuries. There aren't many among us that could fight one on equal terms. Much less him and his entire squad at the same time. The green recruits I was thinking of sending with you are ones I feel would learn a lot from serving with powerful warriors like yourself. I'd love to group them up with some of my other powerful folks, but myself and Syntax have duties we need to attend to that can't handle unready backup." She smiles at Balrik, brushing off everything that Dagan has said. After a second though, she decides to turn on Dagan and speak to him instead. "I can believe narcissistic, since every word that comes out of your mouth seems to be centered in a completely different reality from the one we actually live in."

[Starbin]

Balrik simply shrugged expressionlessly. "We are both accomplished and experienced, but a stray arrow can still kill and numbers can be a great equalizer. We'll use your green recruits, but only send those willing to be held accountable."

Balrik will study the maps and review the troops and their equipment before they go. Initial idea is to have the main body of the folks head out well in advance and lay in wait at standard/likely camp sites ... with a couple of scouts who can report back when the caravan gets closer (of if its gone a completely different way).

[meemaas]

The squad you get is a group of very eager recruits, excited to show their stuff to the powerful Balrik and Dagan that they have already heard great stories about. The group contains a single wizard, who shares his prepared magic with Balrik, an archer, a rogue, and their de facto leader, who travels with a wolf by his side.

The leader introduces himself to you as Warren, but neglects to give the name of his other guys. He tells you that they were adventurers until they found themselves framed by the government and joined the resistance. You two go over the map together while Dagan scares the bajeezus out of the lady rogue, and find six different places along their expected path where they might make camp. You pick one that seems reasonable, and send the squad ahead of you while you make your own preparations. How long do you plan to wait before going after the caravan?

The Wizard is still only able to cast first level spells. He has Burning Hands, Shocking Grasp, and Shield memorized.
The archer is a fighter specialized in archery. He carries a longbow and has two dozen arrows in his quiver.
The Rogue is focused mostly on trapfinding and stealth, and carries a few daggers and a rapier for her combat.
Warren is a Ranger with martial training, he fights with unarmed strikes alongside his pet wolf.

I look forward to seeing what Dagan does to the girl, since I know he would.

Also, I realize this isn't what you expected, but the resistance doesn't exactly have a ton of people to draw from.

[Starbin]

Even if the 'leader' didn't share names, Balrik would ask for them. He ignored any praises, waving them off as unnecessary and distracting. "Be focused on the task and staying alive. We will do the same. Who has experience caravan operations?"

After ensuring the group seems competent enough, he arranges for the rogue and one other to scout ahead (the wizard would work if he's got message, otherwise maybe the archer). The rest would travel with them in a few hours time - enough to let the caravan set up camp and be settling in.

I understand if you don't have names for them ... Balrik would ask for the regardless, so we can make them up if you like :smallsmile:

[Morbis Meh]

Dagan quickly forgets pestering Thea, especially now that she has become resistant to his antics, in favour of his newest plaything.... To be honest he could care less about the gender of the sneak thief and was more concerned with evaluating her abilities since she had the luck of having the skill set that was closest to Dagan's. He started out simply by sneaking up behind her and waiting for her to notice then graduated to hiding the dead bodies of small animals in her gear or left traps. Yes it was a **** move but in his own sick and twisted way Dagan was attempting to be a mentor of sorts, it had been years since he had met anyone with any form of potential so if he could train someone in his image he would be utterly delighted. As far as the plans were concerned, Dagan voiced that he would prefer to strike during night time since he was not phased with the lack of light and that he would personally go on the scouting mission. The new recruits needed a chaperon and it would be harmful if they were discovered then horrendously murdered before they gave any useful intel.

[meemaas]

The Rogue and Wizard go on ahead and do their scouting. Once you expect them to be in place, the rest of you move after the caravan, following the very clear path the caravan was using, you make good time and catch the caravan already in camp and setting up a guard. You scout around the edges, keeping a good ways out of sight of the guards until you hear a silent message in your head. "We're in place over on the far side. We'll strike on your command."

Yea, i didn't make any names for them. There's only so much creativity in my mind sometimes, lol.

[Starbin]

Balrik glanced at Warren and Peece, motioning for them to relax. While the members of the caravan were potentially distracted, he wanted to use the time to count the total number of targets, least they miss something important. He 'thought' back, "Hold for now. Count numbers, report back. When we attack, minimal collateral damage."

To his rookies, he tasked them to count as well, while he did so himself. He looked for obvious (and not so obvious) leaders, total number of guards, positions (stationary, roving, etc), where the 'civilians' were, and anything else that looked like it might be an issue.

Named for you - sorry for all the questions ... guess it's the nature of a two player game :smallsmile:

[Morbis Meh]

Dagan skulked merrily through the darkness, knowing fully well that his protege, the poor girl didn't know this to be the case, would more than likely screw up and get caught if she went any closer. Leaning in eerily close to Buffete he whispers "Stay here with jazz fingers over there and I will go in for a closer look. If anything goes wrong you two high tail it back to the rendezvous, understand?" Not waiting for a reply the odd man scampers off silently into the night, edging closer towards the camp from a direction that is not in the immediate field of vision of any look out.

stealth [roll0]
perception [roll1]

[meemaas]

Between the six of you on the opposite sides to each other, you come to the conclusion that there are roughly 16 soldiers, three casters, four civilians kept under guard in the center. There also stand out two extra soldiers who wear slightly more distinguishing uniforms than the others, and a final person who appears to have already fallen asleep against a tree. Of the soldiers, roughly ten of them are already prepared to rest, while the remainder appear to be keeping watch.

I kinda assumed that you would keep going back and forth to try and get an accurate count and assumed through all the hard work.

[Starbin]

Balrik considered the numbers arrayed against them. Sixteen standard guards. Three obvious mages. Four civilians being kept under guard in the center. And three individuals he could not identify yet - two that might be additional support from the general's personal guard ... and one that was already asleep - an indication of extreme confidence, pi$$-poor professionalism, or absolute pragmatism.

Looking about at the rookies, Balrik considered the best options. Warren and Buffette were both specialized for close-in combat, Bayti's spells required him to be in close for any measure of effectiveness, and Peece was an archer - not exactly an optimal mix but it was what they had to work with. Looking to Warren, he whispered, "Can you keep the horses quiet and lead them away?"

If they could at least remove the horses from the mix, it provided an option to keep the men locked down here. However, he also wanted to take out as many of the guards as possible ... once they were halfway into their rest period.

Basic ideas - kill guards in the middle of their shift (somewhere between halfway to 3/4); steal the horses; then figure out what's next. Initial targets will be furthest guards, but if any of the specials are there, Dagan and I should totally attack them first.[/QUOTE]