The twists of fate

[dantiesilva]

It is said that a good man can become bad when pushed so far that they no longer can see hope. And that a evil man can in his last moments do something so good that it wipes away all their past sins. This however is not the story that has set you all out from your individual homes. Some may say you have left for family or faith, others to protect their country, divine whispers late at night, and the call of magic on the air. All these things are just as important as the last, and yet not a single one is important at all. Vengeance begets vengeance, blood calls to blood. For when you kill a man one day a man will kill you.

With these thoughts in mind you all set out from your homes, expecting to be the only ones out in search of this mad man known only as Ryl Aufein. A man said to be so evil that when he went to a village not even the ashes of the place where left behind. That no man, woman, child or beast escaped when his shadow fell upon the homes they lived. But if no one ever lived how could anyone know the name? The order of the silver knights have asked the world to help them find this old man, clothed in a cloak of devils hide and wielding magic so foul that it threatens the entire world itself. Bloodmagic they say to all who will listen, something no schooled wizard would ever dabble in.

And so for the last month you have all traveled on your own looking for this mad man before he is to find your homes and raise them to the ground as he has done to countless others. The trail is finally fresh as four people make their way towards a tiny town in the middle of the mountains east of the the shannara river. A cold wind is blowing in as you all look up to the sky that is slowly getting dark, in the distance you all can see a figure seeming to head in the same direction as you, though whether they be friend or foe you have no idea, only that you all seem to travel the same way. And to the south a large barn house can be seen, as the sounds of animals can be heard. No doubt with the sight of a farm the town you should be heading towards should not be far away, and with luck still standing.

Okay everyone so basically you all left your homes and thus far have not meet up with one another, perhaps seen each other in passing while looking for leads on where Ryl may be going next, but never traveled together long. The figures you all see is well the other players. I think that covers everything. So just have fun with it now okay?

[JDL]

Leaning on her quarterstaff for support as she moves, Dolcetto walks with the easy stride of one accustomed to the rigours of long distance travel by foot. Her stride is long and the road beneath her foot is eaten with smooth, steady bites. Today the weather is good, which is a blessing. Rain and winds are poor travelling companions for one who is alone on their journey.

She recalls with a taint of sadness her last group of friends she left behind. As with all adventurers they were a rag-tag band of misfits, but she loved them in her own special way, much as a mother loves her children even when they misbehave. Markus she would miss the most, with his ever present smile and quick wit, his solid belief in his own luck and unwavering sense of the heroic. Sadly this road she walks is a different one to them now, and she feels the poorer for it.

Stopping a moment to lean against a tree and enjoy its shade, Dolcetto listens to the sounds of the rural life drifting on the breeze. It's a simple place here, and she hopes it will remain untouched by the taint spreading across the land. Ryl, the object of her search, the evil she's devoted herself to ending, will face justice soon enough for his crimes. She simply hopes she's strong enough when the time comes to face him. Memories of burned homes, mounds of bodies, the smell of entrails exposed to the midday sun, carnage without mercy or compassion that would make the most hardened mercenary turn his gaze. She'd seen it, and knew she'd live with that memory every day of the rest of her long, long life. Perhaps the knowledge was made all the worse when she knew how easily it could be done. She was well schooled in the conjuring arts. Ryl's craft was so close to her own, like a sick mockery created by twisted demonic humour.

Shaking her head to clear her thoughts, she stares past the memories and forces her mind back to the present. Quietly she stares at the meadow before her, spotting a splash of colour moving gently in the breeze. She smiles as her hand moves to her shoulder, lifting a tiny hummingbird onto her finger and gesturing to the flowers. The hummingbird takes flight and hovers in front of the lilacs, probing their gentle petals with tender kisses.

She starts singing a song softly in Elven, the scene reminding her of a song and a friend she knew long ago.

"I once had a sweetheart, but now I have none
She's gone and she's left me, I care not for one
Since she's gone and left me, contented I'll be,
For she loves another one better than me."

"Green grow the lilacs, all sparkling with dew
I'm lonely, my darling, since parting with you;
But by our next meeting I'll hope to prove true
And change the green lilacs to the Red, White and Blue."

"I passed my love's window, both early and late
The look that she gave me, it makes my heart ache;
Oh, the look that she gave me was painful to see,
For she loves another one better than me."

"Green grow the lilacs, all sparkling with dew
I'm lonely, my darling, since parting with you;
But by our next meeting I'll hope to prove true
And change the green lilacs to the Red, White and Blue."

"I wrote my love letters in rosy red lines,
She sent me an answer all twisted and twined;
Saying,"Keep your love letters and I will keep mine
Just you write to your love and I'll write to mine."

[Archmage1]

Lauriel, who had been feeling like she was chasing the ghost of a hope of a rumor was almost happy as she moved swiftly through the woods, her feet always seeming to find a good spot, even as she looks about alertly at her surroundings, although the trees and birds give no signs of danger.
Jervan sent me after this person, this Ryl, to avenge Edgewood, but three months later... I hardly feel that I am any closer. This... this feels like a real lead, a chance to find him, and a chance to end him. I'm no assassin, but... I'll make do.
As she moves, she spots a figure walking in roughly the same direction, and she makes sure that she's out of sight, knowing that in a place like this... few would come here, except maybe itinerant traders, and the figure had no muletrain.
Maybe a simple traveler, but to this place? This is practically nowhere. No one would come here, so perhaps... perhaps this is my chance.
Her decision made, Lauriel alters her course, moving swiftly through the trees, but her feet making no noise, and her form seemingly blending in among the trees, although she winces as she steps on a brittle branch, hidden beneath the foliage.


Going to investigate the figure in the distance.
[roll0] stealth
[roll1] perception

[Navian]

Tora marched along steadily, whistling as she went. Her sword was slung over her shoulder, and her mace rested on her hip. Her hair was red, her eyes were blue, her skin was light, but densely freckled. She wore a white and blue cloak over shining scales, and her gait revealed no worries or reservations about the journey that lay ahead.

She bore no holy symbol, and carried no items of power. Strong arms and a brave heart were all she needed to save the land, she was certain, though good steel could certainly help. No foes or challenges had presented themselves on the road thus far; arm-wrestling at the inn, yes. She'd won! And a drinking contest where she had been defeated soundly, falling sound asleep after only four piints. Ah, well; she did not need to fight with her stomach, and she doubted her foe was the sort to lull his victims to sleep, or to knock them about with his fists, for that matter. She still had the advantage.

Tora strode past the farm with confidence. Oh, she knew of dishonest men and their tricks, but it was not something worth thinking about. They condemned themselves through their own cowardice; strength and endurance only came to the bold. It would not be long until her bravery was put to the test, she hoped. Too many calm, pleasant days, unopposed in the sunshine, could make any woman grow soft--even those on a quest.

[JDL]

[roll0]perception check to notice Lauriel

[JDL]

The steady tread of a lone traveller walking along the road behind her breaks Dolcetto's reverie, and she turns her gaze to follow the marching woman. She's heavily armed and armoured and the expression on her face is the kind that you only see in the eyes of those fanatically devoted to their cause. Obviously a hard case on a quest, ready to show their faith in their lord through the divine mercy of sticking three feet of steel into someone's belly. Useful people to have at your side too, though this one was certainly not the most observant, her eyes glued straight ahead without even a glance towards Dolcetto. The staccato beat of her boot heels reminded the elf of another song she'd once heard from a play about a band of soldiers.

"One, two, one two,
We not only fought but we won, too!
Left, right, left right,
There's none of the enemy left, right?"

Smiling serenely, Dolcetto hears the snap of a branch out in the wooded fields. Her expression changes to caution at once, one hand gripping her quarterstaff firmly while the other hovers near her spell component pouch. Keen eyes pick out the shadowy form hiding in the underbrush, a fellow Elf by the appearance but unknown to Dolcetto.

"Hail to you friend," says Dolcetto in Common, facing the hiding figure. "It's too fine a day for sneaking upon a peaceful traveller at rest. Why not come out and pass the time in companionship, unless your intent be the gold in my purse, whereupon I promise you the price of your prize shall be high indeed."

[dantiesilva]

@ Tora

It is said that when Kord was born his strength was only matched by his fiery spirit, and those that are gifted with red hair have been touched by the god himself. The love of competition, no matter the kind, and are some of the strongest of his followers. And back home you were a testament to this. So it was no doubt no surprise to your lord the Brawler when on the road you accepted any form of challenge presented to you, whether it be that of physical strength, or of drinking against dwarven men. Had they not switched the brand of ale to one of a dwarven make you have no doubt you would have won that contest as well. However that was behind you now, just like this farm would be if you continued walking into the night.

@ Everyone

As Tora goes marching by the farm you all see a little girl, no older then six if you were to guess poke her head up from the fields of grain. If not for her scream no doubt none would have noticed her either as the girl went running towards the farm house away from Tora. DADDY HELP THEIR HERE! She screams, but who was she referring too, after all none of you had ever traveled to this land before. However you do not have much time to think on these matters as a very large man steps out of the house, a pitchfork in his hands as he pushes his daughter back behind him. If I told you once I have told you a thousand times, get off my land you dam vagabounds. You think just because you have a badge that you are so powerful and can do what you want. Well you can't. The man says as two very large dogs come from around his house growling at you.

While the man is clearly built from all his years tilling the land, it is clear he is no fighter, and could easily be bested should you engage him. But who did he think you were, and why did he think you were them?

[Archmage1]

Wincing even more when the figure starts talking to her, Lauriel shakes her head, quite disgusted with herself.
So focused on my task that I lose my situational awareness... stepping on a twig like that. Jervan would throw me out for making a mistake like that! At least she doesn't seem hostile. Best to get it over with...
With that thought, she smiles as she steps out of the woods.
"Hello. I suppose that is an option, although I do prefer the woods. The ground is much nicer, and there tends to be fewer bandits there."
She draws breath, meaning to continue, when she hears the scream from the farm.
"It looks like there is something going on at that farm. I might talk to you later."
With that, she darts back into the woods, moving through it to observe the happenings, trying to be quiet once more.

(Taking 10 on stealth and perception, for a 18 and a 17 respectively)

[JDL]

Keeping her attention trained on the figure in the bushes, she hears the Elf call out to her in a friendly enough manner. However a scream interrupts their conversation and the Elf fades back into the forest at the commotion.

As the scene at the farmhouse unfolds, Dolcetto quickly glances around to ensure the farmer is referring to herself and the other two, not someone else. She smiles as best she can and tries to calm the obviously irate landowner with words and reason. She subtly motions her familiar over to help complete the guise of friendliness and innocence.

"Good sir, I am a simple traveller on the road who stopped to rest their weary feet under the shade of your tree. I apologize for any offence I have caused you and beg your pardon if I have trespassed. Should you wish me to leave I will depart forthwith. Please call off your animals and allow me to pass unmolested. But if you are troubled by vagrants is there any assistance I can provide?" she says, glancing pointedly at the woman in armour.

Perception to detect any other persons nearby in case he's talking about someone other than the three of us:
[roll0]

Familiar Aid Other on Perception:
[roll1]

Diplomacy to avoid confrontation with farmer:
[roll2]

[JDL]

Familiar Aid Other on Diplomacy:
[roll0]

[Sliver]

Nathan walked slowly on the road, the month of travel being a strange and new experience to him. All his travels until now had a definitive destination and it was never too far from the city. Oftentimes they would even travel by cart. Now, he had to learn to pace himself. It wasn't surprising that he wasn't good at that. His blond hair a mess, his boots dirtied with crusted dirt and his Cuthbertian blue cloak dusty, it is obvious that tidiness isn't on the top of his priority list.

His thoughts wandered constantly, traveling in time. Back home, where he is unsure of what to make of recent events, or into the future, where his dreams await only his touch to be fulfilled. Nathan smiled bitterly at the cruelty of the past. He and Lianna had barely been wed for a couple of months before his superiors made their decision known to him. His training done, his task as a brand new enforcer is to investigate the rumors regarding the man known as Ryl and bring him to justice. Nathan wasn't sure if the church didn't believe in those rumors and simply wanted Nathan out of the way, or if they believed them and thought that Nathan would perish attempting to fulfill his task, and get him out of the way. That was a morbid thought and each time it came to his head, Nathan shook it away. Besides, regardless of their reasoning, Nathan wanted to become an enforcer so that he could be as free from the church as possible.

He had hopes for this adventure. If he would be able to complete it, and maintain his ideals regarding compassion and justice, then he would return with power, fame and renown. They will have to take him more seriously! It is a step towards his goal, and one day he will see the church a softer, kinder place. Sometimes he dreamed that he would face St. Cuthbert himself, presenting his case, and actually convincing the god. They think you are crazy for a reason. His inner critic remarked.

As his thoughts returned to Lianna, they were soon cut when he noticed the travelers ahead of him. How curious. He hastened his step as he heard the girl calling to her papa, watching wearily as one of the travelers dashed into the woods, and reached the others just as they finished exchanging pleasantries.

"Excuse me, kind sir!" He says as he steps forward. You should have done something with your hair, you look like a mess! When did his inner critic start sounding like Lianna?

"I can see there is some tension here, but I have a question of dire importance. Do you have any cheese besides goat?" Nathan paused, trying to smile disarmingly. "You see, my wife, bless her, couldn't find anything besides some damn goat cheese! I can barely tolerate the stuff, so you can imagine my suffering when I found that all my packed rations only had goat cheese! I need my cheese, but why does it have to be goat?!" Nathan said, raising his hands in the air in disgust. You are making a fool of yourself! They will never take you seriously! His inner Lianna shrieked at him. Nonsense, some humor goes a long way to disarm a tense situation.

[Navian]

Tora turned as she heard the scream, then saw the others lined up down the lane who had been called out, and shrugged in puzzlement. She decided to direct her attention to the farmer, first of all. "What badge and what vagabonds, old fellow? I bear no sigil of any kind, and may do what I want without reason; yet what I want is to pass down this trail. Do we tread on your seedlings, or do you charge a toll?"

She attempted to smile disarmingly, though she still held her sword ready to draw from its sheath over her shoulder, as she eyed the dogs with some concern. Of course she wanted a fight, but the terms of this one were appalling. It hadn't come up before, but it seemed very difficult to keep things friendly with dogs and a pitchfork involved.

[dantiesilva]

@ Tora as you speak to the farmer asking him about what badge he speaks, and vagabonds. Claiming that all you want to do is walk past his home, asking if he was upset that you were walking across his seedlings, or if you had to pay a toll of some sort. All in all this did not look like it would end well, the two dogs looked ready to attack at the first sign from their master, and he seemed ready to defend his home for some reason you still couldn't comprehend. Oh don't you go playing denser then wood now, I know that armor, worn only by Sergant Brooks and his men it is. Always coming here to take my goods to feed yourselves. Well not this time, this time you wont be simply coming and taking what you wish, I won't be pushed around anymore. The farmer says, his hands shaking as they grip the pitchfork so tighly his knuckles are turning white. Then thanks to your training you see an opening as he looks up behind you for a moment and his eyes pale even more.

@Torra & Nathan

As Nathan comes forward from the woods towards the farmhouse and the comes to stand near the old man asking for some other form of cheese besides goat cheese he points one of his long stuby fingers at the two of you. First you play dumb asking what badge, then another of you come from the woods around my land and ask for cheese, and you still claim not to be the dam thieves who keep coming back. The farmer says as he seems visibly afraid now, while there was only one of you he was able to put up a fight thanks to his two dogs. However now there were two of you, and he was no trained soldier.

@ Dolcetto

Watching as the figure who had just said hello to you seems to vanish once more into the forest when a scream comes up from further ahead, you make your way forward where you see a farmer holding a pitchfork and two dogs ready to attack, a little blonde girl of no more then six years seems to be popping her head out from between her fathers legs. Speaking kindly and softly you explain to him that you are a simple traveler who came to stop and rest their feat underneath the shade of one of his trees. After all there were many around his humble home, it's a surprise he is able to keep all his animals from running off in fact. My fair lady know that I am not one of those kinds of men, nor do I allow any of them to work here on my farm. If what you say is true, and you are a simple traveler I will offer you shelter for the night if you help me get rid of those who would try to take my belongings. The man calls out to you, however his eyes stay locked on the two before him.

@ Lauriel Watching the scene unfold before you, you watch as the old farmer seems to get more stressed as the more heavily armed people show up. Yet offers a warm room to the woman who offered to help him deal with those who wanted to steal his belongings. What to do, you could easily pass right by with no one ever noticing you were their no doubt. Or you could go forward and speak with the farmer, after all he had seemed nice enough to the other woman you had been speaking with. Or you could join the two who seemed like they were about to get into a very dirty situation.

[Archmage1]

Lauriel, still not sure if this was the work of Ryl, or a misunderstanding, continues to watch from her hiding place, choosing to not interfere.
Could be Ryl, or it could be nothing. Non-interference is fairly important, especially now. There isn't anything to be gained from acting hastily.

[Navian]

Tora took a step forward, attempting to show no weakness to the dogs, and still held her sword ready, without drawing it. "It would be a sorry thing indeed to be hurt battling innocent travellers the one day you decide to fight back. I would fight them with you, if they were here, and I have no interest in taking what belongs to you." When she saw Nathan, she considered his merits as an opponent, and spoke to the farmer out of the corner of her mouth. "I don't know this man, but I do know you have much to lose by picking fights with armoured strangers at random."

[Sliver]

Nathan nods at Tora's words. "This lady has a point, my good man. I do not know who is taking your belongings, but it sounds that they claim to have the right to do so. What sense would it make for us to feign ignorance, if we were part of that group? Please, calm your dogs before..." He trails off. "As a humble servant of St. Cuthbert, I value fair trade. I wasn't asking to take your cheese... I am more than willing to pay for a good meal, especially one containing cheese which is not goat. I would also be interested in shelter for the night, nothing glamorous of course." Nathan seems to consider for a moment, before sliding a hand into his pouch, drawing several silver coins. "I believe that three silvers is a fair value for a simple meal and shelter."

[JDL]

Pleased that the farmer hasn't set his dogs upon her, Dolcetto approaches and stands at the man's side. She appraises the two armoured figures and shakes her head. Bandits they may be, or adventurers, but certainly not any professional grade of military stands before her.

"A compromise then," says Dolcetto. "Should you two have no allegiance with the company of Sergeant Brooks, whomsoever this fellow may be, shall we not lay down our weapons and speak as civilised folk? To engage in needless bloodshed when neither party are eager for battle seems a terrible waste. Shall you surrender your arms and parley under the flag of truce with our good landowner here, or perhaps simply turn around and pass up yonder road?"

"As for you good sir," says Dolcetto to the farmer, "May I ask the name of my gracious host and those of his two canine companions and fair daughter? For my part, I again apologize for any license I have taken in trespassing upon your land. My name is Dolcetto Aglianico, daughter of Viura and hailing from the Goldenbough forest far to the west. I'm travelling along this road seeking news regarding this plague of destruction that's blighting our land and claiming the lives of so many innocent folk. I would be happy to break bread with you and your family and discuss any way I may assist you in your troubles. I should warn you good sir, I spied a figure creeping along the tree line nearby. If they intend to set upon us we should ready our defences."

[dantiesilva]

As everyone seems to move foward towards the farm house, one lone figure stays behind. Watching from the bushes, sure one could call it being cautious. After all any of these could be Ryl if they were a caster as he was supposed to be an old man, something not a single one of these figures were. However Lauriel knew better then to trust her eyes. Then again she could also simply be a coward, hiding in the hopes that if everything went badly she could get away while the others were killed. Whatever one wanted to call her though she would never know, for she was alone more then 200ft. away from all others.

@ All minus Lauriel

As the elven woman with an otherworld look walks up to the farmers side, you notice both the farmer and little girl seem to relax a little. Daddy I think its okay if the lady is here. I have never seen one of her with them before. The young blonde says innocently as she looks in wounder at Dolcetto before looking at her hair and giggling. Daddy I thought only old people got grey hair. Its not polite to point out things about people Elizabeth, especially because it makes them different. Go run along inside and see how dinner is coming. Okay daddy, oh and sorry miss. The little girl says before running off into the house with no cares in the world, a small raven seeming to follow her into the house.

With his daughter inside the house the farmer looks towards the woman besides him, listening to her words as she speaks. As you may have been listening, my daughters name is Elizabeth, Elizabeth Rose Ireland. My two guard dogs there would be Bandit and Tank. Had them since my daughter was born, just like my parents had gotten me a pet when I was born, a family tradition if you will. The man says as he allows the pitchfork to stick into the ground, though still keeping it close in case this was some kind of ploy. As for myself, The name is Johnathan Miller Ireland the third. He says proudly, And whats this you say about coming here about destruction blighting the land? I have not seen any? Not since the neighbors were killed, but thats was years ago. Nothing happens around here, the Silver Knights make sure of that. Only problem is they are so busy guarding the borders that they negelcet the problems going on inside their own lands. Johnathan says to Dolcetto as she introduces herself and explains why she is here.

Johnathan then looks to the two armed figures across from him with a raised eye as he weighs his options. So you both say that you are not with that fool then. Fine I will believe you for now, however if you want to eat and earn my trust then you work. I don't accept money here, work when the morning sun rises, until it sets tomorrow night and you can stay in the barn tonight. Jonathan says before whistling at his two dogs and both quickly run over to him, seemingly like completely different animals as they both roll around playfully with him. As for this figure in hiding, I am sure they will come out soon enough, or move on. Cowards often do that. Now if you agree to the terms go get cleaned up in the pond down past the large oak tree, after your done you can come in. I don't like my house being dirty. Jonathan says pointing of in the distance to an old tree, that seems to have a swing attached to it. And don't forget to knock first before entering, otherwise you may end up with a bolt in your face, and a dog on your leg.



As we all know there is a 0 level spell that can make all of you clean, he is a simple farmer and is not aware of that, should you choose to use the spell that is fine, just explain what it does visually for RP and who you clean. If only you that is fine, after all you are all still just meeting for the first time.

[Archmage1]

Continuing to observe, Lauriel notes the friendship happen, and she thinks.
I don't think that Ryl would be recieved well, and beyond the hair, they don't meet the description I have, as limited as it is. Which suggests that several armed strangers could be helpful. Jervan always did say that a good ally was hard to pass up.
Her decision made, she sets out openly for the farm, wondering what her welcome would be, quite prepared to run, if it should prove to be unwelcoming.

[JDL]

Dolcetto laughs with the voice of a songbird at Elizabeth's comment, smiling brightly as she touches her hand to her hair. "Your child is most observant good sir, indeed it is true that age can dull the colour of one's head, and at over two centuries I would well be due this honour. Yet the hue, I must confess, has been mine since birth. The silver shade of a midsummer's moon is not so uncommon among my folk in the Elven lands, as too is the golden glow of a warm spring sun or the auburn of the mighty trunks of the grandfather trees. Some even effect minor magical enchantments to produce shades of sky blue or emerald green, though I personally find these too garish for my taste. If we have time later in the evening I can tell you more tales of my land. I'm sure a bright young girl like yourself would enjoy hearing of the cities built in the branches of trees taller than the mightiest castles, or the beautiful Dryad spirits who reside inside the hearts of these mighty trunks. I might even tell you of the time I met a tree who could walk and speak as we do," she says with a grin, knowing for sure she's set the child's imagination alight. As the girl runs toward the house Dolcetto waves at her passing, already feeling sad at the loss of her companionship. She notes with interest the raven that follows the girl, wondering if perhaps the child possesses a pet or if it is possibly a familiar.

Inclining her head towards Johnathan, she listens to his explanation and expresses surprise at the neglect he's been subjected to by the local authorities. By now she's been near the dogs long enough to feel comfortable extending a hand towards their muzzles and allow them a chance to get to examine her scent. If they appear friendly enough, she will give them a scratch behind the ears.

"A chance to freshen up would be welcome Mr Ireland, and to soak my tired feet in a cool pond under the shade of an oak tree can only be likened to heaven on earth. I am happy to provide what assistance I can offer to you and your family. I am capable at cooking, sewing, mending, cleaning and other sundry tasks. I must confess I do not myself consume meat or animal products, but I am fairly proficient at the creation of dishes crafted from the bounty of the field, which to judge the look of your garden you have in ample supply for our needs."

Taking her leave, Dolcetto walks down towards the large oak at the foot of the field. A sparkling pond is spread beneath the green leaves of the noble tree, and Dolcetto wonders idly if long ago this land belonged to a Druid before it was settled and civilized. The placement and aspect of the vista had the look of an ancient druid grove.

"Spirit of the tree," she says in Sylvan, laying her hand on the oak's rough bark. "Thank you for the gift of your shade. May your roots grow deep and your boughs spread wide. Watch over the family who share your land, short though their lives may be to you, oh ancient one. May their happiness and health bless you and make you strong."

"Spirit of the water," she says again in Sylvan, this time to the pond, removing her shoes and slipping her feet into the cool water. "Thank you for the gift of your comfort. May your waters be pure and never run dry. Watch over the family who share your land, though their lives may pass like raindrops in your sight. May their happiness and health bless you and make you strong."

Having observed the proper rituals due a druid's grove, Dolcetto relaxed and let the wind in the branches of the tree and the lapping of the water at her feet answer her words in the language of the land. She saw a figure emerge from the underbrush nearby, the same one that had been sneaking around earlier. The Elf appeared to be heading towards the farmer's residence openly and without obvious malice, so Dolcetto resolved to merely watch the exchange from a distance and intervene only if needed.

[Sliver]

"My name is Nathan, Nathan Mandax." Nathan says with a smile. "Now, my goodman Johnathan, as I said, I value fair trade and would not cheat you out of the worth you are offering. As the value of a meal and accommodations is priced at 3 silvers, if you would not accept the coin, that is the value of the work I would have to do for you. Since I'm not trained in the ways of agriculture, unlike you, that would take me a quite a while. In that time, I would sleep and eat with you, which would only increase my debt further. Even if you were to waive my debts after a single day of work, I'm afraid this is not something I can accept. With this coin, you could hire someone of as little experience as I have to work for you for weeks, I believe." Nathan shrugs. "If you would not take my coin, then I'll simply move on. The night will soon be upon us, so I need to find a nearby place that is fitting for camp..."

Why did you put emphasis on nearby?
Well, the man seems keen on making this about trust. He wouldn't want someone he doesn't trust setting camp by his farm, would he?
And that will make him let us pay for room, instead of work? You are trying to use his insecurities against him! That's how threatening works!
Only if he's smart enough... He might not even notice the implication. It's subtle, so it's okay!

Before Dolcetto leaves, Nathan turns to her. "Does this plague have a name? Coincidentally, we may be on the same quest..."

[JDL]

"If fair trade is the price you seek for lodging and three silver the value you set, I suggest you set to work cutting our gracious host firewood sufficient for a month," says Dolcetto to Nathan before she departs. "This should fairly equal your proposed amount. Go, then, and man d' axe!" she says with a lilt and a smile, knowing full well the terrible quality of her own pun.

"And as to your second question," she says to Nathan, "If you have a mind to harry me with your interrogations you may do so when I am resting with my feet in that pond."

[Sliver]

Nathan blinks at Dolcetto before shaking his head. "I am flattered by your proposal, but I'm afraid I cannot join a bathing lady." He says before smiling. "I am also afraid that there are little leads as it is, so any delay could lead to a possible trail going cold. An entire day gone is not a worthy exchange for the luxury of a meal and shelter."

Seeing the hidden character revealing herself and approaching, Nathan opts to simply wave at her.

[JDL]

Dolcetto laughs at the obvious discomfort of the man as he squirms like a worm on a hook. "I said I was putting my feet in the pond, Sir Nathan of the Reluctant Axe, my feet. Unless your kind is far more prudish than I am given to believe, it is hardly equal to a naked romp through the meadows or an orgy under moonlight. Besides, I'm far to mature to indulge in that kind of foolishness any more," she says with a wistful smile to herself, indulging in a few old, happy memories. "In any case, 'tis of no consequence to me what manner of thought my actions would provoke within thy mind, for thy countenance is far from fair to mine eye and thy form lacks the comely shape of mine desire. Thou mayest keep thy sword sheathed in mine presence Sir Nathan, for I would not have the knowing of it by consent."

"Now if you are in hot pursuit of your target let me not hold you back in your chosen task. Myself, I have found taking time to learn the lay of the local land and avail myself of the wisdom of the native folk far more rewarding than a furious charge into the unknown. My life has not been uneventful, and yet the proof of my course is that I remain to admonish those who fail to follow it."

So saying she departs for the pond, still offering a glance over her shoulder at Nathan in case he changes his mind in following.

[Sliver]

Nathan laughs. "It was only a joke, my dear lady. I know what you meant. But you sure have an interesting way of saying 'you're not my type'. Don't worry, I'm a happily married man, so the lack of interest is mutual." He bows as Dolcetto turns to leave. "Some of us have more time than others to spare. I'm not as privileged as yourself, so I try to compensate with rash actions and little thought, charging through life as surefooted as an elephant, hoping that I stumble upon the right path." He says, then considers again. "That is, too, a joke. I do put thought into my actions, though some tend to disagree..." He shrugs. "Can't please everybody, can you? Well, I've been rambling long enough. I'm sure we will meet again if fate wills it so."

[Archmage1]

Continuing to approach, the somewhat twitchy elf, dressed in mottled green and brown leather, with a heavy longbow on her back, and a backpack stuffed full of things there as well, nods at Nathan's wave.

[Navian]

Tora observes the man wryly, her estimation of him no higher than it was at first."You make many demands, Mr. Ireland. I'm not sure I'd be comfortable staying on your land, much less working on it." She comment to Dolcetto, not taking her eyes off the farmer, "I do not see that as a fair trade, Ms. Aglianico. The man has many weapons he has not yet brought to bear, while I have nothing to fear from his pitchfork. In the meantime, I must defend myself and others. What if Sergeant Brooks' men were to pay a visit?"

She gives the others a meaningful glance, as she lets her scabbard drop down into its back sling, and crosses her arms. "I can work, but I fight for a living. I cannot break my back for a sack of grain. If you require my strength, I can perform great feats; I will make rotting food fresh again, turn vinegar into wine, repair tools or torn clothing with a gesture, and make broken flesh whole. The might I am blessed with can do far more than split firewood. Whatever aid you require, I ask that you request it with wisdom and respect." She gestures with one open hand, but otherwise maintains her belligerent posture.

[roll0]

[dantiesilva]

Dolcettoas you begin to explain about the different forms of hair color for your people and how some of them can even change it with magic the girl points to her own hair and smiles. Daddy always tells me that my hair is like the sun, well that and the grain we grow. Healthy and strong. The little girl says almost jumping with joy, Elizabeth calm down please. As I have taught you, it doesn't matter what someone looks like, only how they treat you. I know daddy, but wow, none of those in the village have hair like her or me. Thats because your mother was special Elizabeth, just like I can tell by looking at this woman, Ms. Dolcettoas that she is as well. They share a similar trait for sure. Johnathan says to his daughter who only continues to get more excited as you speak of the lands you came from and the wonders of your home. Daddy are there any talking trees around here? Whats a dryad? Why don't we live in a house built in the trees? more and more questions the little girl asked before her father finally put up his hands in surrender. Saying our guest wanted to let you know about these things, perhaps it would be best if they explained it to you. Only after dinner though, now go inside and get the table ready. I will be in soon my Rose. Johnathan says before gently pushing her towards the house, a smile on his face as his features lighten from those that were there before.

Both Bandit and Tank look at your hand as you extend it, sniffing after a few moments before both allow you to pet them. Both seem very well taken care of and groomed you can tell by their beautiful and soft black and brown fur coat. And by how well they listened to Johnathan, no doubt well trained as well. However even the beautiful atmosphere can not distract you from wondering why those who were supposed to protect the people left this land alone.

Whatever you think you can do best Ms. Dolcettoas is fine by me. I will not force someone into doing something they do not feel capable of. After all you know your talents best, and I would be foolish to assume I know more about you then you do. Johnathan says as he looks off in the distance to the lone figure in a brown and green cloak walking up. So this be the one you saw hiding? I can tell by the clothing not one from around here, it doesn't shine in the sun. he explains as he turns to the two heavily armed.

I can see where you are coming from Nathan, however to hire help would mean to go to town, wasting a days work so hired help is normally not taken. Add in the fact the town is two days away, I doubt you will find another place to rest at least in safety, mind you I could be wrong. I try to stay close to my home until after harvest. This way I spend the least amount of time away from my home, and my love. Johnathan says kindly as he begins to think of a solution to the problem, only to have Ms. Dolcettoa speak up. You two keep talking like that with my daughter is around you both will be cleaning out the pig pen. Jonathan says flustered as he looks to make sure Elizabeth was not listening in. Happy to see she was nowhere in sight he looks once more to Nathan. How about this, you want to pay coin for the work you would do, I do not have time to leave my farm. I will give you a list of things I need from town and you can get them and bring them back to me on your way back in this direction. Otherwise you will have to do some kind of work, I see no other fair way around this matter. the man says, he was willing to haggle a bit, but it seemed this was as far as he would go on the matter.

As to the other matter of rushing or taking your time, living on a farm all my life I have come to think I know a bit about life. One will always do what they must when the time comes. In the fall one harvests their fields, and in the winter one tries to keep their lands healthy while resting for the spring, selling their wares to make it threw the cold. When spring comes you plant, and when it is the summer months you tend to your fields. Trying to rush any of these will result in a smaller crop without the powers druids posses, and even they tend to only use their magic when they must. Jonathan says as the cloaked figure finally arrives among the others. Was starting to wounder when you would arrive. I will tell you as I told the others, you are able to have a warm meal and a safe place to rest the night if you are willing to do some work around here in the morning. If you agree there is a pond down behind the house, large oak tree near it can't miss it really. Go clean up and then when you are done knock on the front door, walk into the house without knocking and I am not to blame for what happens. Names Jonathan. The farmer says looking at all the people at his farm.

And tell me what were to happen to you if his and his men catch yee in the middle of the night while you sleep in the middle of the woods? He takes my belongings and thinks himself high and mighty with his men. Tell me what you think would happen to a lone woman traveling at night? If you do not think what I offer is fair trade then you are more then welcome to leave, however once you leave there is no point turning back as your journey will only be slowed. Tora, you then go on to tell the man all the tasks you are capable of doing, and warn him to ask with wisdom of what he wishes you to do. If you are afraid of breaking your back doing work me and my daughter do every day I wounder how you ever got those weapons and armor. You say you can fix tools though, so I can assume you are a blacksmith of some sorts then? I happen to have a few tools I need fixed that I have not gotten around to doing myself yet. If that is what you wish to do.

[Navian]

It was Dolcetto's offer to have everyone set down their weapons that Tora didn't consider a fair trade, not Jonanthan's offer to stay. She complained to him about the way he presented his offer, not his offer itself. The second, third, fourth, and fifth sentences of Tora's speech in my last post were spoken to Dolcetto, the rest were directed at Jonathan.
Tora stiffens, and her eyes flicker skyward for a moment. It's not so much that she has to decide the right course to take as that she has to proceed on it, despite the unusual challenge that has been set before her. This man needs a lord. He should not have to pretend to be one, she reminded herself.

She crosses her arms firmly, once more, beckoning Jonathan with only one finger. "Show me your tools. Once I have demonstrated, perhaps you might cease insulting me." She puts on a warm smile to conceal her restrained desire to break the man's nose. The mask is not perfect, but it is reasonably good.

[Archmage1]

Reaching the chatting group, Lauriel listens to her introduction, and nods.
"Greetings. You seem to have a fair bargain, although my skills are more suited to woodland than farmland. I may be able to help. Have you seen anyone strange around here, perhaps with red hair? He would be older."
She ignores his assertion that anyone would find her in the woods. Perhaps another scout, but a human? Never. Still, it would be good to get clean again. It had been a day or so since she had found a stream.

[dantiesilva]

Tora as your mind rambles on and on about the difference between what is the right thing to do, and what is the wrong thing to do you place on a fake smile as you address Johnathan the farmer, who has offered you rest for something as simple as a little work in place of the materials he would lose for housing you. Never mind the fact he is taking the risk that one of you may try to harm him and his family if his story is indeed true. Then again can you go along with a life of questioning yourself of what is right and what is wrong? As you mull over these matters Johnathan speaks up. It is not an insult I give to you. I simply state facts. As I pointed out to Nathan, the nearest town is two days away from here, and that is if you know where you are going and do not run into trouble. Thieves and bandits like the sergeant and his men are more then likely to attack a lone woman then they are a group of people. It is why I do not leave my land unless I need to. As once I do I risk losing all my stock here, as well as my life in the travel to town. He explains, as he gets ready to enter his home. As to the tools, it would be better to clean up and eat while the food is still warm and get a good nights rest before beginning a new day with work. A farmer is up with the sun, and stops working when the sun is ready to sleep, as you can see we got very little sun light left. It would be foolish to work on the tools now. Johnathan explains before looking to the newcomer as she speaks.

Well there are the people you see here, as for old men with red hair, can't say that I have. Not often I get visitors of the friendly nature, you all probably took the old road that has not been used in ages, why you ended up here instead of heading directly to the town. And if you think you are better in the woods, you could collect firewood, this way when winter comes I will have plenty thanks to the extra pair of hands. The name is Johnathan by the way. He adds, being more friendly with you then he has been so far with Tora and Nathan.

[Archmage1]

Lauriel smiles.
"I suppose it was too much to hope for. I tend to avoid roads. Fewer questions that way, and fewer unpleasant visitors as well. I can gather firewood for you, in the morning, although I doubt I will be able to bring in enough to last the winter. I'm Lauriel. It's nice to meet you, Johnathan. Now, I believe you said something about a pond? I've been traveling for a while, and being clean would be a welcome change."
With a nod, she heads off, meaning to strip off and get clean in the pond, as well as wash her armor, and clothing.

[Navian]

She pondered it for literally a split second...

Tora raised her eyebrows briefly at Lauriel's request upon her approach, but only briefly. She remained focused on Jonathan. "You do not know as much as you think you do, Mr. Ireland, and you dismiss me as frightened, and foolish, a blacksmith, a lone woman."

The young woman grits her teeth and her smile washes away as she advances on Jonathan. She's determined to catch him before he heads inside, even if she has to clamp her hand on his shoulder to stop him. "Mr. Ireland, I am a Chosen of Kord. The god of strength granted me some of his strength, and I wish to make good use of it. If you do not believe me, if you did not hear me, then allow me to demonstrate. Shall I fix your tools, instantly, or shall we settle this like men?" It was ambiguous what she meant, for one not familiar with Kord. Anyone else would know this to be a challenge to physical contest.

Tora smiled again, more genuinely this time, though without the same warmth. Any outcome where she could prove herself to this recalcitrant farmer was a good outcome in her eyes--or at least, all of those she could predict or imagine, from her limited experience.

[Sliver]

Nathan laughs. "Kord, huh? That explains it! Some things never change. Always eager, intense and stubborn. Goodman Johnathan, I would give up now, unless you are going to wrestle this young lady." He puts his hand on Tora's shoulder. "Now, I doubt he knows the proper technique. He'd be hardly a challenge for one guided by Kord. You'd barely have a chance to show your skill before it's all done and finished. But I do believe you haven't introduced yourself yet. May I ask the name of one so eager?"

He turns back to Johnathan. "Your terms are more acceptable now, though, as you may or may not have guessed, I have no plans on returning soon. I will pay for the delivery, though I expect breakfast as well. Make your list, goodman Johnathan." He says with a smile and offers his hand to the farmer.

"I also expect this lady's meal and bed to be extraordinary. The services she offers you are highly valued, much more than a simple bed and breakfast. And supper." Nathan adds. "You would have to spend the four day trip there and back, and pay a craftsman that would take his time, costing you another day or even more, before you could go back to work. However, her repairing your tools, now that's time and money that you save. Those services could cover for all four of our accommodations and meals, if the lady would be so inclined." Nathan says with a smile.

With that, Nathan will wait for the ladies to return before he himself takes a trip to clean at the pond.

[Navian]

The 'fire-haired' (albeit more accurately 'tomato-haired') maiden regards Nathan with astonishment, and barely overcomes her shock to respond, "Tora Wahan." She turns back to Jonathan, quickly crosses her arms again, and looks serious, more or less in support of the high rating to which Nathan is describing her. As soon as Nathan has turned away, she's compelled to rein things in a bit by saying to Jonathan of Nathan, "...He embellishes considerably, but the truth is close enough."

[dantiesilva]

Welcome to my home Lauriel, as for gathering enough firewood for the winter. I should have worded it better, because I do not have to spend half of my time looking for firewood, while also trying to get my chores done it makes things easier is all I was implying. Not that you would be able to get enough for winter by yourself, well that would just take to long. Johnathan says with a hearty smile as he nods to you and Dolcetto. Yes ladies, just keep going back that way, can't miss it. Johnathan says watching the two of you leave, which only left Tora and Nathan.

As both Nathan and Tora begin with once more trying to act like they were doing him such a great deed the farmer shakes his head. I know of the god of strength, and all those like him that are to stubborn to listen. Rather get into a fist fight or some form of competition. Johnathan says to the two of them. As to the great gift she is so eager to bestow upon me, I did not ask for such a gift. She simply told me what she could do. So expecting special treatment because one can use magic is just as absurd as treating someone differently for being a different race. I treat all people on my farm equally, and judge no mans work against another as I know that while the one who wields magic spends years learning to wield it. The one who brandishes a sword also spent time learning their own trade. Both are valued equally and should be treated no differently. Even if given the same task. If you wish to do another Task Ms. Tora because you believe your magic more valuable then a meal and a safe night then so be it. However I will give special treatment to no one. Johnathan says clearly done with the entire situation. You both know where the pond is, if your wish is to stay the night. If you plan on staying and not getting cleaned up then you can eat in the barn, I wont have my home being dirtied. And with that Johnathan walks into his house shutting his door behind him.

*********

Meanwhile down at the pond Lauriel witnesses Dolcetto thanking the land and water for their aid, and asking them to bless the family that lives here. However what neither of you would have ever expected happens as a voice replies into your minds. Quid est homo, et benedictus filiae nescis ? Venisti aliquis quaereret aliena . Imo ego scio quid facias , et tamen simplex agricola manere et offer bona dat tibi nihil speres. Quam ob causam? Comes a very old sounding male voice, clearly he seems comfortable with demanding answers, as well as speaking this way. But where is this voice coming from?

The voice is speaking celestial to you, so if you do not understand celestial do not look it up as it is a waste of time. If you do, well I look forward to your reply.

[Archmage1]

Lauriel returns Johnathan's nod as she walks towards the pond.
As Dolcetto thanks the land and the water for her aid, Lauriel simply starts undressing, rapidly removing her somewhat grimy armor, soon followed by a somewhat less grimy set of travel clothing, and undergarmets. However, before she can start rinsing them in the water, and changing into clean clothing, the voice speaks up, in a language she doesn't recognize.
"<elven>I don't understand that language. Perhaps another?</elven>"
She doesn't seem to be concerned about privacy.

[Navian]

"Fine, then," was all Tora had time to say as the man shut himself away. She went on to mutter, "If you won't give 'special' treatment, you won't get 'special' treatment. And by 'special' I mean fair. I'll save my strength for a man with no adamant brick up his arse." Arms still crossed, she left the house to survey the rest of the farm.

A rude man, a pretentious twit, a coward, and an utter prig, just to top it all off, Tora thought in a huff, as she looked over the barn. I wouldn't be surprised if this 'Sergeant Brooks' has it in for him due some sort of ill-conceived, rambling melodrama regarding 'the value of man' the old farmer performed to him, all interspersed with crass insinuations about the virtue of Brooks and his men.

Soon becoming almost as bored of the farm itself as the farmer, Tora marched her way to the pond, searching for better company. It was getting dark, and it was more urgent at this moment to manage her temper than to spend one more hour on the trail.

She sat down by the tree and examined her stock. She was prepared to sleep outdoors if need be, and could cook her own meals, though she would have to hunt tomorrow if things didn't improve. "I have enough food for the day," Tora commented aloud. An air of irritability still hung over her, and she still resented the man who had all but ordered her to take a bath--as if she would have rejected it if it had been offered politely. Not quite looking at Luiriel, she says, "I did not get your name--nor you mine, I think. I am Tora Wahan."

[Sliver]

Frowning throughout the farmer's speech, Nathan finally relaxed as the man left. He was quite articulate, considering his profession, which made Nathan curious as to how he ended up in such place. Of course, he was quite wrong, too. Valuing something by the effort put into it was a noble idea, but was far from reality. The longer Nathan thought of it, the more suspicious he grew. He was also considering eating and sleeping at the barn, out of principle. [roll0]

Smiling at the muttering Tora, he waited a bit before leaving for the pond as well. As soon as he can hear the pond and the ladies there, he will stop, resting his back against one of the trees, turning away from the pond.

"Letting you know ladies, I'm here!" He calls out.

[JDL]

"Why is a woman showing kindness to a man she doesn't know and his daughter? When they come seeking another instead to bless the land of a simple farmer who can offer them nothing in return. I know who you are. So tell me why?"

Dolcetto raises an eyebrow at the comment out of thin air, turning her head and attempting to perceive where the unknown voice is originating.

[roll0] Perception check to spot hiding creatures, pinpoint invisible creatures by sight or by hearing.

The creature speaks in the tongue of the divine creatures, so she does not fear for her safety. Nevertheless she notes with interest that the one that speaks to her does not use the language of the Fey, which she would have assumed would be more appropriate for a creature attached to a Sylvan glade. Obviously whomever this unseen being is, they come from a higher source.

[JDL]

"I seek only to honor the generosity of a host that deigns to share his home and hearth with a travelling stranger," answers Dolcetto to the air in Celestial. "To be met with hospitality on the road is a rare gift these days among those of this realm, where dark forces desire to corrupt and destroy any who may show signs of weakness." Her translation stumbles as she seeks to find words for evil acts in the tongue of the divine, which has so few words which convey these concepts.

"May I inquire the name of the one whom I address? I meant no disrespect in my words, yet I cannot claim to knowing thy voice alone. Verily I profess thy has the better of me, but I am content in my ignorance if it pleases you not to reveal yourself to my eyes. Since you know of me, you must know the cause of my quest, and I hope it does not offend you that I undertake this task. The Silver Knights have warned me of the destruction being caused by one familiar to mine own craft, and I cannot avert my eyes from the consequence of this path he has chosen. I pledge to you that I shall seek out the one named Ryl Aufein and see him face the fruits of his actions. If it please you, any assistance you may provide me would be a boon to my cause, yet I understand the efforts of the divine seldom seek to work through one such as myself. As to the good man and his daughter for whom I requested the blessing, am I misguided in my understanding? Do they secretly hold malice within their hearts and desire to do harm to those who rest upon their land, or is the man's request for assistance a deception to trick those who render him assistance into perpetrating evil acts?"

[JDL]

Nodding to Lauriel as she approaches, Dolcetto inclines her head in deference to the unseen speaker.

"Greetings again elfkin," she says in Elven. "I see thou finally has forsaken thy skulking path in the undergrowth for the company of others. I trust the bandits thou feared did not materialize and ravish thy..." she pauses as she observes Lauriel undressing and entering the water, "...comely loins. It appears we have the attention of one of the celestial host, a most unlikely turn of events for certain. If you do not speak the tongue I am happy to assist in translation. My name is Dolcetto Aglianico, and I wish you peace sister of my people."

From behind the mighty oak she hears Nathan's voice warning of his arrival.

"Hail brother Nathan the Reluctant! If thou comest 'round yon bower avert thy eyes, lest they sight upon mine naked ankles and inflame thy manly passions." She smirks at her jest, picturing the smile on his face at the banter.

[Archmage1]

Using the sand present to scrub the days travel from her, Lauriel speaks with Tora.
"Of course. I'm Lauriel Treeborn. It's nice to meet you, Tora."
Is it nice to meet you? Jervan always did mention the importance of politeness... I think that was the right greeting. If not... it'll have to do.

As Dolcetto speaks in elven, Lauriel listens, although she shakes her head, almost laughing at Dolcetto's misconceptions.
<elven>"Skulking through the woods? It only seemed good sense to do so. After all, you may have been bandits. But, after observation, I decided that you were not. It would be most sad should mere bandits catch me. It is good to meet you as well. Dolcetto."</elven>

After Nathan's alert, Lauriel laughs.
<elven>"Why is is that human males are so prudish? I've never been able to figure that out."</elven>

[Sliver]

Nathan laughs. <elven>"It is a cultural convention, my dear. We call them privates for a reason."</elven>

"I am sure that your ankles are the finest in the land and fear that I have not been exposed to such exotic ones as yours. The consequences might be dire, Lady Dolcetty." He pauses, looking around for the voice. "Besides, I have my wife to think of. What would she think, if I were to tell her that I joined a group of exotic ladies at a secluded pond. Well, as secluded as one can be, with lechers such as myself, trying to sneak a peek and see ankles. However, from your words, not all of the ladies in the pond are as modest as others."

[Archmage1]

<elven>"Because you are too embarrassed to see them?"</elven>

Lauriel, finished cleaning herself, casually walks out to retrieve some of her clothes, before heading back into the water, and she starts cleaning them as well.
"I would think she should trust you. Or, perhaps she knows you too well."

[Sliver]

Nathan smiles. "It's not a matter of trust. You could also say that she would never know unless I or one of you tells her, and that would not be the point either. Some things you don't do simply because that's how it is. I was born and raised with certain values, and this is one of them. If you believe that me not seeing you nude is inherently wrong or evil, then go ahead and make your case."

[Archmage1]

Lauriel continues to clean her clothing her she talks, her words almost seeming musical. Especially her laugh, which is what she starts with.
"If you think not seeing me nude is inherently wrong or evil, you're acting rather oddly. But this isn't about my views. I don't see anything wrong with you seeing me nude, or vise versa. But if you do, then you do, and that's your concern."

[dantiesilva]

Lauriel as you reply in the language of your ancestors to the mysterious voice, asking it if it could speak a different language, there seems to be a small pause, before you hear him repeat his question in the tongue of your own so that you can answer as well. Not showing a care in the world that you were in the middle of bathing as a voice began speaking randomly into your mind. This also does not seem to faze Dolcetto as she replies to the creature in a tongue you do not understand. Thankfully the creature answers in a more common tongue, though still only in your mind. Étrange , il semble que ceux qui voyagent avec vous ne vous sentez pas de la même façon . Comme pour un hôte aimable et généreux qui ouvrirait sa maison et le foyer à vous, je ne pouvais pas être plus d'accord . Calls the voice to the two of you in elven, sounding almost amused. Bien que je ne suis d'accord avec vous que rencontrer l'un sur la route qui montre la bonté quand il est regardé comme une faiblesse est rare . Toutefois, les forces obscures qui tendent à détruire le monde sont ceux qui prétendent protéger.

Strange it seems like those who travel with you do not feel the same way. As for a kind and generous host who would open up his home and hearth to you I could not agree more. Though I do agree with you that meeting one upon the open road that shows kindness when it is looked at as weakness is rare. However the dark forces that tend to destroy the world are those who claim to protect it. While it is not disrespectful to ask for ones name, however a name is a powerful thing. So for the moment you may call me betrayed. And you say you hold the gift, intresting. The silver knights are well known threwout these lands, for that there is no doubt. However silver is also known to be a description of ones tongue. Be wery of what you hear, and always think before you act. Some look at the gift as a dangerous tool used to destroy and thus try to crush it or force it into formal teachings. Those who refuse are hunted. As to the man you have meet and his daughter, they are a truely rare sight in this world. The man lives to protect her, and has faught death itself with sheer will to stay by her side, while the girl has talents that would be exploited if known about. It is why I am never far from them. They once helped me when I was young, and so in turn I help them to repay my debt. You wish to punish a man you have never meet because you have heard he has done horrible things by a kings men? I give to you simply this, so that your quality will be known by your enemies before you ever meet them.

So far the voice has been very forthcoming with the two of you as you all seem able to speak freely, however when Dolcetto asks for a name, the voice seems to take on a guarded tone. Alors que ce ne est pas un manque de respect pour demander les nom, mais un nom est une chose puissante . Donc pour le moment , vous pouvez me appeler trahi . Et vous dites que vous détenez le don , intresting . Les chevaliers d'argent sont bien connus threwout ces terres , pour cela il ne fait aucun doute . Cependant argent est également connu de constituer une description de ceux de la langue. Soyez wery de ce que vous entendez, et toujours penser avant d'agir . Une partie Regardons le don que un outil dangereux utilisé pour détruire , et donc essayer d'écraser ou forcer sur les enseignements formelles. Ceux qui refusent sont chassés . Quant à l'homme que vous avez rencontrer et de sa fille , ils sont un spectacle vraiment rare dans ce monde . L'homme vit pour la protéger , et a lui-même avec la mort Faught pure volonté de rester à ses côtés , tandis que la fille a des talents qui seraient exploitées se il est connu à propos . Ce est pourquoi je ne suis jamais loin d'eux . Ils me ont aidé une fois quand je étais jeune , et donc à son tour , je les aider à rembourser ma dette . The voice explains to you in no manner of a short explanation as you begin to notice ripples in the pool seeming to walk towards the two of you, before a hand is placed on each of your foreheads. Vous souhaitez punir un homme que vous ne avez jamais rencontrer parce que vous avez entendu qu'il a fait des choses horribles par un des rois les hommes ? Je vous donne simplement ceci , afin que votre qualité sera connu par vos ennemis avant que vous ne les rencontrez . The voice says as the two of you feel a cool breeze tracing something upon your faces, and when it is done, you watch once more as the ripples recede back towards the center of the pond.

@Nathan and Tora Unbeknownst to you the woman have been having a guest speaking with them, of what you are not sure, however this farmer leaves a bad taste in both of your mouths. Something seems off about him, he is to well versed in the ways of words for a simple farmer. Or perhaps you are so used to the life of a church you have forgotten how people speak to intruders. However soon the thoughts of the farmer are replaced by decency and women's ankles as all except Tora begin to speak on the matter. You may all have diffferent views on the topic, of what is proper, and what is not. However who is to say one is better then the other? Perhaps time itself will tell.

[Navian]

Tora's objections to Jonathan are not quite the same as Nathan's, it's not that she feels he might not be as he seems, it's that she thinks he is what he seems, and what he seems to be, to her is a petty terror, and a tin-pot dictator.
Tora seems bored of the conversation, especially the parts in elven. It's not a great leap to conclude she does not understand it, and it provokes no thought from her. She stows her possessions again, and leans against the tree, stretching out one leg, making no move to remove any equipment. For the most part, she stares into the pond, but when the elves go silent to listen, she watches them with puzzlement.
[roll0]

[JDL]

When the mysterious voice doesn't seem forthcoming with any more information, Dolcetto turns to address the others in the group under the shade of the oak tree.

"Well, it seems we all appear to be spending the night here. Tell me, in your travels have any of you ever heard of the name Ryl Aufein? The Silver Knights mentioned he has been sighted in the local area. If any of you have information regarding him, I would appreciate assistance in discerning his location. I had intended to travel to the next town to make my enquiries, but it seems the fates have led me here instead."

[Navian]

Tora could hold back for a moment more. She remained guarded, and glanced toward Lauriel, then back to Dolcetto. "Why do you ask?

"It was the Irelands who swayed us from that path, not the fates," she points out, tellingly. She remains sitting quietly, with both gauntleted hands folded over her raised knee.

[JDL]

"And he's an interesting fellow, isn't he?" says Dolcetto with a smile to Tora. "I wonder if I asked around town, what I would discover about this Sergeant Brooks? It's an odd title for sure, that a bandit would call himself Sergeant. Is our farmer simply angry with the enforcer of the local law, or unhappy with the dues owed the tax man? I am happy to aid our host if he's truly being robbed, but I intend to render him no aid in breaking the rightful and just laws of the county and abetting in resisting the payment of taxation due to his lord. He has offered me his hospitality and I intend to honor him with fair service in return assisting with household chores. If however this Sergeant comes calling for his payment, I don't intend to intervene unless one side threatens violence. Should our good host honestly be the target of bandits, whatever he loses can be reclaimed from the thieves. I personally prefer to gather more information than I have at hand at the moment before deciding my course of action."

"In the meantime, if you hear any information relating to Ryl Aufein, I would consider it a service should you share it with me. I intend to gather a group in search of him, and had hoped you might be inclined to lend your aid, but I understand if you have more pressing matters to attend and wish you safe travels on your journey. I also extend the same invitation to the rest of you here," she says to Nathan and Lauriel. "If you have need of travelling companions on the road ahead I can assure you I may prove a useful person to know. If you prefer to act alone instead of in concert with another however, may your path be blessed by the fates and your road rise up to meet you."

Dolcetto soaks a handkerchief in the clear waters of the pond and uses it to freshen her appearance, wiping away the dust of the road. After herself and her gear is sufficiently clean, she prepares to return to the farmer's home.

[Sliver]

"People sometimes have trouble seeing the difference between taxation and extortion. Johnathan said that there are issues of security, implying that this Brooks to be the problem, but I'm wary taking his word for it. Sergeant Brooks and his company may be simply keeping the area safe, and so they need to be paid..." Nathan laughs. "I can just imagine the men coming to the farm and Johnathan demanding that they work on his farm for his food and trust!" He pauses. "For a man quick on the offensive against those he doesn't trust, he was looking for a lot of reasons to decline quick, and more profitable, repayment, rather wanting to have us stay around longer...

"As I mentioned earlier, we seem to be sharing the same goal. Ryl is my target as well. To investigate the rumors regarding him and to deal with him should the need arise... Teaming up would be a welcome change."

[JDL]

Dolcetto walks over to shake Nathan's hand, smiling as she looks him firmly in the eye.

"Then it would be my pleasure to have you accompany me, Sir Nathan the Reluctant, and I hope that together we may uncover the answers we seek. I assure you that anything we discover will be shared equally and fairly among all, and you shall have the best support I am able to offer. By your equipment I can discern you are skilled in the ways of martial weaponry, and while I have use of my bow should the need arise, my primary skills lie in the arcane arts of wizardry. If we face peril on our journey, I will use what powers I have to provide you with greater prowess in battle, by your permission that you trust me in my oath to exercise my arts only to your benefit."

[Sliver]

Nathan shakes Dolcetto's hand, returning a smile. "Likewise." He replies simply. "I will do my best to divert any strikes from you to my own hide; I've been told mine makes an exceptional target."

[Navian]

"You didn't answer my question," Tora begins to say to Dolcetto, but moves on. "The title could be a relic, held by deserters or mutineers, but I do like the way you think."

Tora leans back and stretches, thumping her head against the tree, and says with a rasping sigh, "Not to dissuade anyone from their manhunt, but it seems as though that's a matter to discuss at dawn, not this evening. The town is still days away, and a lot can happen in a few hours." She checks the sky uncertainly, for a moment.[roll0]Afterward, she looks at Lauriel, then turns toward Nathan and, not seeing him, raps her knuckles against the tree to get his attention. "Does anyone else intend to make camp tonight beyond jurisdiction of Our Lord Tyrant, Jon Ireland? I feel safer away from his threats and demands, though I'd feel safer still with more comrades-in-arms."

[JDL]

Dolcetto smiles at Tora. "It seems that you desire anxiously to begin travelling until nightfall? Very well then, if you wish to decline the hospitality of the good farmer, I will act as envoy to announce our intent to depart and give him and his daughter our best wishes. It is obvious he is uncomfortable with armed persons on his property, no matter their origin, so let us not weigh further on his conscience. However I ask that if you wish to travel with us, you restrain your urge to goad those we meet into confrontation. Reserve your vitriol for the evil creatures we may soon be forced to combat. I fear there will be more than enough to sate your appetite."

Turning to Lauriel, Dolcetto extends her hand to the elven maiden. "If you fear bandits on the road ahead, why not join this merry group of travelling companions? It would save you the discomfort of trudging through the underbrush and give you assurance of a night's rest passed without fear of ambush. If you are willing to depart now with us, be welcome and well met. There is safety in numbers and you need not pass the journey in solitude."

Finally decided on her course of action, Dolcetto walks up to the farmhouse and knocks on the door. When Johnathan answers the door, Dolcetto's face takes on the appearance of sadness and disappointment.

"Greetings friend Johnathan, I wish to convey my gratitude for the respite you have offered a weary traveler on a long journey. You have a most excellent farmstead, and I appreciate your hospitality in extending the invitation to several uninvited guests to stay with your family. Unfortunately after discussion with the others on the road, it appears we are all traveling in the same direction, and given your warnings about the dangers surrounding this location, I'm sure you must agree it is wise to seek safety in numbers when on the road. Due to the confrontation that occurred between you and Tora, the good lady wishes to depart at once, and so I must with great sadness convey the message of the others declining your most generous offer of accommodation. I wish you and your good daughter health and safety, and should I have cause to pass this way once more, I will stop and pass news of my travels with your child. Please give her my sincere apologies that I am unable to spend the evening telling her of the wonders found outside her homeland. Farewell Johnathan, and take care."

So saying, Dolcetto indicates to the others to follow her as she resumes her journey along the road, intending to travel as far as possible the remainder of the day and strike camp at nightfall.

[Navian]

Tora shakes her head in response to Dolcetto's first question, then speaks up to say "No," and grits her teeth as the speech goes on. Her jaw is firmly set by the time Dolcetto starts chiding her, and when insinuations are added, she gains a look of consternation, and speaks up once again. "Gods, you're as bad as him."

She sits staring across the pond and says nothing as Dolcetto speaks to Lauriel, then watches Dolcetto leave. Before Dolcetto has made it thirty feet from the pond, Tora drops her hands to her sides with a huff, and asks aloud so that Nathan and Lauriel can hear, "Do you suppose it's too late to stop her?" She seems to be in no hurry to get up.

[Sliver]

Nathan looks amused and puzzled by Dolcetto's words, but stands up before she can leave. "Now, wait a moment. This isn't what Tora said and nobody else agreed to leave right now. I'm wary of the farmer too, but I would rather rest, seeing as I traveled for most of the day and there is little walking left for me to do, especially in the night."

[Archmage1]

Surprised by the actions of being in the pond, Lauriel is unable to avoid it, and has one thought as she continues cleaning her gear.
Hopefully, that does not cause issues down the road.

Lauriel continues rinsing her clothing, and armor, not caring about who sees her while she does so. As she works, the others converse, and she listens.
"Ryl? All I know is that he destroys everything that he touches, and that he might be in this area. I'm looking for him as well, but he has proven to be a difficult individual to track. You'd think we could track the trail of destruction, but no..."
While the others bicker, Lauriel finishes cleaning her clothing and armor, and she sets it out to dry, on a nearby rock. She climbs out of the pond, careful not to get her feet dirty again, and lies down to rest on another rock, clearly intending to get dry.
"Whether the title is a relic or not, or if this Brooks is a thug or not is irrelevant. I think that with adequate cautions, a farmhouse is a decent place to stay. He might be a little controlling, but the work would be far more valuable to him than coin out here. If that Brooks appears, Johnathan should handle him. Brooks is likely part of a larger organization, so if he vanishes, more issues will arise. As for moving on... While we could move on, staying here makes more sense. I'm able to move on, if we need to, but there seems little point in exhausting ourselves tonight."

[JDL]

Walking along the road until she's out of sight of the Ireland farmstead, Dolcetto finds herself a secluded grove of trees and strikes camp. She gathers stones to make a fire pit, then uses her flint and steel to light up a small camp fire, but lays her waterskin nearby in case she needs to douse the flames quickly. Laying out her bedroll, she relaxes and observes the sunset turn the horizon amazing shades of orange and purple.

[dantiesilva]

Torra as you arrive at the lake with Nathan you soon get bored as Nathan and the two elven women begin speaking in a different lauange you do not quite understand. From your times spent traveling you can tell it is probally elven, though how Nathan had learned such a lauange as a human was beyound you. Not even bothered by being left out of the conversation you quickly check your gear, not bothering to remove any like the two by the water, instead content to sit at the tree with one leg spread out resting for the moment.

Dolcetto as the man who calls himself " Betrayed" answers a few of your questions, your mind seems to repel whatever he says, as if he had never said a single word as you speak to the others. Curious you ask them all if they had head about the man who was so much like yourself, yet used his powers for destruction instead of to help those around him. This man Ryl Aufein had to be stopped, and you had to be the one to do it. To show the world that not all magic was evil and twisted.

However as you ask your questions the woman named Tora seemed to become a bit more guarded as she looked between you and Lauriel. Before finally looking back asking you why you wished to know. Both of you wounder if perhaps you are speaking to this Ryl now, after all you both know the powers magic holds, and what it could do to a person. Tora then raises both of her gauntled hands to her raised knee, perhaps getting ready to attack, or perhaps counter attack. Sitting their so smuggly mocking the good farmer who had offered you a place to rest for the night and sooth your tired feet.

Tora as you look at this elf across from you the thoughts of who this woman before you is continues to laugh at you from the back of your mind. Ever since she had arrived she had been warming herself up to the farmer, and mocking Nathan for not wanting to do work when he could easily pay for the same thing and move on. And then there was her friend that came out of the woods as she was leaving for the pond. Perhaps they were pretending not to know each other infront of the farmer to lure him into their trap? But would that trap involve killing you and Nathan?

Dolcetto you sit by the pond, ankles in the water, as you pull out a small handkerchief and begin dipping it in the cool refreshing water as you speak to Tora, informing her that you only intend to get invovled with this farmers problems should things get violent. After all you owed him nothing besides the housework you had agreed with him to pay for your meal and safe place to rest for the night. It seemed information was more important then saving someone in the moment. After all should you attack this Sergeant and he was an honest man you would no doubt be looked at as an outlaw yourself. Then how could you stop Ryl, however that begs the question if all the supplies they were to take if they did show up would still be around when you caught up to them again if they were bandits as Johnathan had told you.

Nathan, ever the voice of reason in your family, as well as a church that sometimes was to hard with the laws, you point out to all around you that both men could infact be good men, simply doing what they think is right. After all this Brooks man could simply be protecting the land as you have been told, and as such he asks for food when passing by Johnathans farm. And from what you have seen of Johnathan no doubt he wouldn't accept their money as it was in his eyes of little value. Looking at it from both sides makes everything seem different, but could it really be so simple as miss comunication? No matter which the fact was you had people offering their aid in a quest you yourself ha dset out for. And there was always a better chance of winning a battle if you had greater numbers then your enemies.

Dolcetto and Nathan soon begin talking about partnership and all of you hear as Dolcetto informs him that she would make sure to aid Nathan in any way she could in battle with her arcane magic. Was she trained in a proper school, or was she one of those blood mages who learned the magic through most foul ways you all wounder, not knowing anything more about Ms. Dolcetto then what she had just told you. Torra, you are well aware of the powers of magic, weilding some yourself, however these were ganted to you by Kord himself to do his holy work unlike the elf before you. Could she be in cahoots with Ryl? Only time will tell as Nathan accepts her offer, and in turn offers to be her shield if battle ever arouse.

Soon the topics turn to sleep and rest as the sun begins to set, turning the night sky many different shades of pink and purple. Tora, with the last bits of light you look to the south, and notice a few storm clouds coming in the distance. The rain would probally hold out a day if you moved on, and rested only when the need arouse. Otherwise you would be caught in the storm as you made your way to town. Whether it is best to wait it out or move on though, getting away from the tryannt seemed like a good idea. After all Kord had given you great strenght, and with the help of others no doubt you could all make a sturdy shelter should it get to close.

Dolcetto as you hear Toras ideas about leaving you take it upon yourself to inform Johnathan that you all will be leaving and not staying the night. Ignoring the call from the others for you to return and talk it over. Well if that is what you all wish then I will not be forcing you to stay. Safe travels and I will let my daughter know. Johnathan says to you as you begin leaving towards the forest in the direction he had told you all the town was, not waiting to see if the others were following you.

As Ms. Dolcetto takes off you are all left to watch as she goes to the farm house to speak to Johnathan, your arguments seem to fall on deaf ears as she continues on her way. Youa ll still have the choice to stay however, after all you did not run off without first discussing the matter at hand.

Lauriel you explain to the others after Dolcetto has left that you to have been tracking Ryl, to little effect. Which is odd saying he is to leave a trail of destruction in his wake, yet in all your travels to this village he is said to be heading towards have you seen so much as a burnt patch of land. As a scout you pride yourself on noticing such things, yet for as obvious as they should appear, you have yet to find them. Anbd once again you too speak out that you believe it is wise as well to stay the night. After all a barnhouse is more easily defended then the open woods. Espically with people you do not know. Add in that the man was only asking for something that was valuable to him, who lived so far away from a town or village that money was important in. It seemed foolish not to rest while you could.



Everyone gained 100exp from the farm encounter so far if you wish to add it to your sheets.

JDL I didn't post where you ended up yet as I am waiting to see if anyone else will go with you or try and stop you from leaving.

[Sliver]

Nathan frowns as Dolcetto seems to ignore him. "That's an interesting take on company." he says. "Did she seriously just decide that your hesitance to stay the night at the man's house meant you want to travel into the night, so she took off and ignored any further discussion, expecting us to follow?" He shakes his head. "And here I thought she was the one that tried to lecture me about patience. What do you think, ladies?"

[Archmage1]

Having finished drying herself, and her gear, Lauriel reaches into her pack, and puts on a light gown, made out of a smooth, white fabric, as well as a pair of more comfortable looking shoes. Just as she finishes, Nathan speaks up.
"It would appear so. Perhaps she is confused, or obsessed. We'll probably run into her again. Still, it's getting late, and we're going to need an early start if we;re going to do those chores for him."

[Sliver]

"I'm not sure about that..." Nathan says. "He wants us to work for him the entire day, basically. We would end up tired and have to stay for another night... I know neither you nor I had luck following Ryl's trail so far, but I don't think delaying for an entire day for the sake of a meal and a roof is going to help us. I think that camping somewhere around here, like at this pond, and then head out in the morning, might be better. Though he did accept me sending him supplies from the village. If you will arrange a similar trade that would not cost us time...""

[Archmage1]

Lauriel looks a little confused.
"We could rest here, true. The tree provides a decent watch post, and there is fresh water available. If we wait for it to settle, it will be clean as well. However, from my understanding, he wants two to four hours of work done, not a days worth. We gain in time, since we should be able to get enough food from him to last the day, thus saving us from foraging as we go."

[Sliver]

"I have plenty of rations to last, I don't mind sharing, since we could resupply at the village. No need to forage..." Nathan offers.

I'm off to bed. If the others would still rather work for Johnathan than camp out, then Nathan will agree and join them (instead of buying supplies for the farmer in the village)

[Archmage1]

"You do remember who we are following, correct? There may not be a village by the time we arrive, or it may be under the control of a bandit lord. I would prefer not relying on a village for supplies."

[Navian]

Tora commented on the sky, "Looks like there's rain on the way. If we hurry, we might make it there before it arrives, but there's no counting on it. Either way," Tora begins to strip off her armour, "I'm going to take advantage of that free bath. As much as I might regret it if we end up marching through the mud," she adds, playfully.

She leaves her armour and pack neatly stacked by the tree, and her weapons just beside the pond before getting in. Many would consider her appearance worth writing home about. She's not the most feminine woman, but enough so to create some confusion. The dense brown freckles that pattern her face run down her back, chest, and shoulders, all the way to her midriff and the backs of her hands before petering out to leave pink skin.

Beneath it all her muscle definition was obvious, from the thick cords of muscle about her neck and shoulders to her sinewy, callused hands and 8-pack abdomen. Her arms could be the envy of almost any blacksmith, and her legs were quite comparable to tree trunks. She was a little short to be 'statuesque', but taller than most women, and she moved with considerable grace once unburdened by her armour. Once she begins cleaning herself with her hands, she goes on to mutter, "I should have brought a pumice stone."

[Archmage1]

"Rain isn't really an issue. It makes it less pleasant, but I'm not here to have a good time."
Lauriel doesn't react to Tora's stripping, simply finishing getting dressed.
As she leaves to go back to the house, Lauriel hears Tora's comment.
"The sand is fairly clean, and can take the place of a pumice."

[dantiesilva]

Dolcetto after leaving the Ireland farm you find out that no one seemed to have joined you when you left. Perhaps had you stayed and listened, discussing what you all wished to do, you wouldn't be alone in the woods now. Then again that man Nathan had promised to be your shield and go with you, and you had only wanted to leave because Tora didn't feel comfortable. So why had no one come with you? It is only these questions that accompany you as you walk for an hour, making sure to be out of the farm before you find a nice covey grove to rest in. Setting up camp had become routine for you, after all you had traveled here all alone, no sense in getting worked up over still being alone. Eventually a warm blaze is going as the darker hours of the day begin to set upon you. Sleep is slowly starting to close in on you, however every now and then you can swear you hear something moving in the bushes. Perhaps it is your friend from the farm house, or the little girl come to ask you to tell her stories. Or maybe its the men who Johnathan told you about, silently waiting in the shadows for you to fall asleep.

I need 3 spot and listen checks for Dolcetto, these will determine whether or not she notices anything throughout the night.

************************************************** ******


As the three of you bicker back and forth you all get well cleaned up as you all seem to decide that resting by the tree would be better off for the night. Nathan goes to collect the food for everyone before bringing it back, giving everyone ample time to get dressed before he returned. With a warm meal in your stomach, and one of you always keeping watch, the night goes by uneventful besides the idel gossip you speak to each other. However the howls in the distance do not sound good, you can only hope the one who left before all of you is safe throughout the night.

You can all RP back and forth with each other if you want, telling tales about one another, up to you. However once you are ready the morning will come, and chores will come with it. Depending on what happens to JDLs character you may be having an interesting encounter.

[Navian]

"I'll take your word for it. Remember to knock," she adds, only half-joking, as she continues to learn how to bathe without a bath house or tub, mostly by trial and error.

[JDL]

Perception check one:
[roll0]

Familiar aid check one:
[roll1]

Perception check two:
[roll2]

Familiar aid check two:
[roll3]

Perception check three:
[roll4]

Familiar aid check three:
[roll5]

[dantiesilva]

Dolcetto while you may be alone, your senses have not dulled in all your travels across the land to get here. To this one turning point where you can finally see the tail of Ryl and his plans. As you meditate the sound of a snapping branch can be heard, so faint that you doubt any other would have heard it, however you have as you open your eyes and look into the underbrush and see a single pair of glowing eyes looking back at you. Sinister and as large as the moon they look at you, as pearl white fangs gleam in the darkness, both of these directed at you and the fire you have going. Slowly the shadow begins to circle around the outer perimeter of your make shift camp, as it seems to wait for an opening to attack.

Initiative please

Lauriel as you arrive at the farm house, freshly bathed and in clean clothing you knock gently on the door, taking mind to remember Tora's warning. In a matter of moments the sound of pattering feet can be heard from inside, before you see the little girl Elizabeth once more, and that odd Raven flying behind her. Oh Hello, I don't think we meet, but daddy said something about my friend leaving with all the others that came. Have you come to tell us you all decided to stay? Come in come in. The girl says excitedly as she opens the door and grabs your hand trying to pull you into the house which gets the raven all riled up as it caws at the little girl. Its okay, there friends of daddy's silly. she seems to say to the bird as she makes her way inside.

Once inside the house you are taken aback by how spotless it is. No wounder the farmer had asked you all to bathe and clean up, you could swear magic had to have a hand in cleaning it this good how well kept the spartan like home was. Elizabeth, how many times do I have to tell you not to answer the door. Johnathans voice comes from around a corner where there is a warm glow, before you see the man poking his head out. I thought Ms. Dolcetto said you were all passing on, did you decide to change your mind? Food just got done if you are all still staying. Johnathan says, seeming to be a lot more friendly then before as he sees no weapons in his house as well as you all cleaned up. Hope the water wasn't to cold out there, but Elizabeth had just gotten done cleaning inside and we didn't want it to become a mess so quickly isn't that right dear. Yup I did it all by myself. Came Elizabeth's sweet voice before the raven landed on top of the cupboard and cawed. I know you helped with the places I can't reach but its not like there are a lot. Caw caw. Okay okay, Elizabeth says laughing before looking back at you. He wants me to tell you he helped to. The little girl says as she sits down at the kitchen table. Are you two done arguing? I swear you two get worse every day, to think when you get older the two of you will be arguing about who gets the last piece of food. Johnathan says warmly to his daughter before offering a chair to you. Well Ms. Lauriel you do not need to wait for the others to eat, after all don't want the stew getting cold now. Johnathan says as he places a bowl with what looks like beef stew infront of you.

[JDL]

Dolcetto's Initiative:
[roll0]

[Archmage1]

Lauriel shakes her head.
"No, young one. One of us left, but the rest of us were going to camp near the pond, as there is a time constraint. I thought that you deserved to be told."
Lauriel allows the energetic girl to lead her inside. When she sees Johnathan, she responds to his questions.
"Ms. Dolcetto overestimates her authority. However, we decided to camp near the pond, as we have little time to waste."


This probably changes the responses somewhat.

[dantiesilva]

Dolcetto as you watch the creature circling the camp fire you notice a brief moment in time before it is about to attack to act. Perhaps your only chance as well.

Map (http://pyromancers.com/media/view/main.swf?round_id=98884)


You
Creature

Lauriel as you explain to Elizabeth that you are short on time and only one of you left she looks saddened. But when she hears you will be staying at the pond she immediately brightens back up. So you are still getting firewood then for me and daddy in the morning. she says cheerfully.

As you are led inside you once more meet the man named Johnathan, and explain to him that you will all be camping by the pond. If that is where you wish to sleep that is fine, just remember our deal. You all have a right to food and lodge so long as you do a service for me in return. Johnathan says kindly as he goes over to his seat and begins eating from his own bowl of food. In the corner you can see the two dogs from earlier, both eating their own bones, no doubt from the cow that had been used to make this stew. Oh and when you see that young man can you let him know I will have the list for him tomorrow where we can talk about trade. I remember him mentioning something about goat cheese after all. he says kindly before taking a mouthful of the soup, that now that you have a closer look is surprisingly not all broth with few pieces of actual food.

[JDL]

Dolcetto casts her Mage Armor to raise her defenses against the creature and moves to put the campfire between it and herself to prevent the beast charging her. "Begone you despicable creature!" she shouts, attempting to scare the wolf away.

Standard Action: Cast Mage Amor
Move Action: Move to M19

[Archmage1]

Lauriel shakes her head as the farmer offers her food.
"I can gather some wood in the morning, but I wouldn't feel right taking your food for such a small service."
She goes to leave.
"I will inform the others of your words."

[dantiesilva]

Dolcetto knowing full and well the scars of battle, you quickly call upon armor fit for a mage as a field of force surrounds your entire body. Then as you look at the situation at hand, you place the campfire between you and the beast so it could not charge you from the shadows. However it seems as you fled the beast took its chance to hide once more in the underbush, but where was it?


Double move followed by stealth [roll0]

Map (http://pyromancers.com/media/view/main.swf?round_id=98886) as I doubt you are rolling a 1

Lauriel I can tell you are different then most of this world. Take care of yourself, and thank you. Johnathan says shhsing his daughter as you go to leave before she can make a big stink about it. However that leaves the question of who he was comparing you to. Those who traveled with you, the people of the village, this Brooks fellow?

[JDL]

Going on the defensive, Dolcetto moves towards the treeline and attempts to reach the lower branches. She peers into the shadows surrounding the camp to determine if she can spot where the creature is hiding.

Standard Action: Total Defense (+4 Dodge bonus to AC)

Move Action: 20 ft. movement to L23 and Stealth check

Stealth:


Familiar Aid on Stealth:
[roll]1d20+

Climb check to move 10 ft. up the tree with remaining 20 ft. movement:
[roll1]

Reactive Perception check vs. Wolf's Stealth:
[roll2]

[Archmage1]

Lauriel nods.
"I will. I have no intention of failing my task. I might collect the firewood before you wake in the morning. Where should I put it?"

[dantiesilva]

Dolcetto as you flee to the tree you hear a howling in the distance which chills you to your very core. Should this creature get you it could be done for.

[roll0]

As you run, making it up the tree you watch as the wolf comes running in your direction, not exactly sure where you are he seems to stand in the clearing trying to smell you out.


Perception [roll1]
Scent
Movement

Map (http://pyromancers.com/media/view/main.swf?round_id=98887)

[JDL]

Safely out of range of the wolf's teeth, Dolcetto seats herself on a branch and draws her shortbow, takes aim and fires at the wild animal.

Move Action: Draw Weapon (Shortbow)

Standard Action: Ranged Attack vs. Wolf

Attack: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]

[dantiesilva]

Who knows how long that wolf could sit around waiting for you to come down, and there was no way you could let it get close enough to you so that it would sniff you out. Drawing your bow you take aim and just like your days back at home the arrow flies true, sticking the beast in the flank which causes it to yelp in pain. Seeing where the attack had come from, the animal retreats to a safer distances and waits, perhaps you would come down from the tree.


Your turn
Wolf moved and has taken 4 damage so far.

[JDL]

Knowing that the wolf appears to be waiting for her to descend, Dolcetto draws another arrow and fires. The creature obviously wants her flesh, and she has plenty of arrows to spare.

Standard Action: Ranged Attack vs. Wolf

Attack: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]

[dantiesilva]

Keep in mind when using ranged attacks that you have to know your range, shortbow is somewhere around 60ft no? [roll0] (Don't mind last roll)

As you fire your bow once more the wolf realizes it is still within range of its nasty bite and once more retreats, to the other side of the camp hoping to be out of range this time around. As even though your arrow missed, it was still to close for comfort for the animal.


Map (http://pyromancers.com/media/view/main.swf?round_id=98888)

[JDL]

Dolcetto sights the wolf again down the shaft of her arrow. It's approximately 90 ft. away now, within longbow range but outside of the ideal range for her shortbow. She puts extra strength into her draw and lets fly with another arrow.

Standard Action: Ranged Attack vs. Wolf

Attack: [roll0] (-2 range increment penalty)
Damage: [roll1]

[dantiesilva]

Fear seems to grip you as your hand slips on your bow letting the arrow you had been about to fire at the wolf inches away from your foot. You got lucky this time, however how long would luck hold up? Perhaps you should have stayed with the others. No Nathan promised he would be your shield and he wasn't here. You would prove you didn't need anyones help so this way when you meet again you would have something to brag about. Looking out from your tree you watch as the wolf seems to be waiting for something, not moving.

Wolf is holding its action

[JDL]

Dolcetto shakes off the fear that caused her to fumble her last shot. She's travelled on her own before, and while she may not have the benefit of allies to provide her aid, she can certainly deal with a single hungry wolf. The shot is difficult to make but not impossible, and she's sure that with enough time she can manage to slay this beast or drive it off to lick its wounds and find easier prey.

Standard Action: Ranged Attack vs. Wolf

Attack: [roll0] (-2 range increment penalty)
Damage: [roll1]

[dantiesilva]

Wolf has taken 8 damage

As you fire yet another shot, you shake away the fear of death as your arrow imbeds itself once more into the creatures flank, causing its beautiful grey fur to be tinged with blood. Not a fool, the creature slinks back into the trees, and for the next two hours seems to dance around, always well away from your bow. It had learned its lesson of underestimating your aim and would not do so again as it always kept a tree between the two of you.

Finally with one last howl you listen as the beast begins to leave the area. You had won this battle with ease, perhaps Johnathan was wrong and the road to the village was not as dangerous as he thought. And so you are able to rest the rest of the night away easily.

Day 2

As the morning sun rises you open your eyes from your meditation high up in the tree. Thankfully the fire had burned down enough last night so it had not caused a fire. However there was still the matter of that wolf from last night, it no doubt had a lair nearby if it had attacked you here. Then again you had a mission to accomplish and had to get to the town before Ryl, what to do what to do.

@ Everyone minus JDL

As you all awaken underneath the tree you decided to sleep under you look down to see a three bowls of poriage at the base of the tree and a small note.

Please do not be offended by my actions yesterday, however when it comes to my daughter I am a bit over protective. Do not forget to come ask me about the cheese when you get this, I should be milking the cows by the time you wake up while Elizabeth collects the eggs.

PS. If you could pick up a bag of fertilizer from town for me that would be great.

Signed Johnathan M. Ireland.

Odd it seemed like he was not as bad as you first may have thought, imagine what a single night could do. However you still had to collect a bit of firewood before departing. Perhaps if you all worked together you could cut the time in half and get triple the amount of wood.

[Archmage1]

Waking after she finished meditating, Lauriel silently descends from her leafy perch, and undresses, knowing that no one else was going to be awake, and that she didn't want to be wearing wet clothing in the morning, after she cleans herself off again.

After about three and a half hours, Lauriel has collected quite the pile of wood, and she returns to the pond, to get clean again. She washes away the sweat, and comes out, drip drying in the pre-dawn light.

[Navian]

Tora rolls her eyes and sighs after reading the note, handing it over to Nathan. "This is for you." For her own breakfast, she ate nuts and biscuits from her pack. There was no question, it was a shame to let good porridge (if such a thing existed) go to waste, but the shame wasn't hers. Even with this pseudo-apology, the farmer still presumed himself master of all he surveyed, and Tora was neither a scavenger nor a tool, to take such a gift offered in bad faith.

No matter. She prepared herself for travelling, same as the day before, which was the same as the day before that, and same as the day before that except for the snake. She had no coin to be picked from her pockets, but it was still worth making sure that nothing she owned had mysteriously gone missing off her watch... aside from bullets, that is. Of those, she had far too many to count, and simply weighed the bag in her hand.

Tora looked up from her work to query with some enthusiasm, "Are you up for a hard march today?"

[JDL]

Retrieving arrows that missed the target at 50% chance of success. Rolling 1d2 for missed shots, 1 is destroyed, 2 is retrieved.

[roll0]
[roll1]

Finishing her spell preparation for the morning ahead, Dolcetto weighs her options. She doesn't have any desire to slay a woodland creature without need, even one as bloodthirsty as the wolf from last night. Also, she's certainly no skilled animal tracker. Nevertheless, the creature is dangerously close to the Ireland farmstead, and the family should be warned of its presence if they are not already aware. She's sure the two dogs that accompany Johnathan would be more than a match for the creature but if the beast ambushes the girl it could end in tragedy. Deciding it would be best to offer the good folk at the farm fair warning of the danger present, she returns to the farm.

Arriving back at the farm, Dolcetto notes the three others are beneath the oak tree enjoying breakfast. She approaches with a wave, smiling a friendly greeting to the travellers.

"Good morning Nathan, Tora and Lauriel! I hope the howling last night did not disturb your rest. It appears there's a lone wolf in the area. I put two arrows into the beast before it fled, but I have no doubt it's still out in the woods licking its wounds. I wanted to warn Johnathan to mind his daughter closely with the creature nearby, it appears unafraid of fire and willing to risk attacking a full grown woman, so I shudder to think what it could do should it happen upon a defenseless child. I plan on departing once I have relayed my warning, and my offer of companionship on the road still stands. Do any of you wish to accompany me?"

[Archmage1]

Lauriel, who had evidently taken another bath in the morning, looks at Tora with wide awake eyes as she gets dressed in her clothing and armor once more.
After she finishes, she eats her porridge.
"I think it's going to be an easy march for me, unless you can more a lot faster in all that metal than I think you can. I've gathered the firewood for the farmer, so we should be good to go."
While she responds to Tora, Dolcetto comes back.
"An interesting decision to return. I... don't think one wolf is too likely. They tend to be in packs. I believe we might as well travel together. Perhaps we'll be able to get to the bottom of your wolf mystery. But once we're all ready, we should return Johnathan's bowls, and inform him that the wood is gathered. Nathan, you will need to decide what supplies you are going to send him."

[Navian]

Tora hands 'her' as-yet untouched bowl of porridge to Dolcetto with a smile, but says nothing. She's hiding her irritation behind a mask of pleasantry, again, though she seems reluctant to offer a compromise, this time, or indeed, to tip her hand in any way whatsoever.

[JDL]

Dolcetto accepts the bowl graciously from Tora and examines its contents. "Thank you for the offer, but I'm given to understand this dish is often prepared using cow's milk, which I'm afraid I don't personally consume. I appreciate your thoughtfulness but I'm sure the road will yield sufficient wild edibles to suffice for my needs and more. Yesterday I found a wild apple tree with such juicy golden fruit I could scarcely believe it. If you wish I will return the bowl to Johnathan and relay my warning about the wolf before I depart."

She stares in curiosity at Tora's smiling yet wordless expression, unsure if the woman is angry with her or just naturally inclined to percolating with moodiness.

Taking 10 for 13 Sense Motive vs. Tora's Bluff

Turning to Lauriel, Dolcetto takes her empty bowl as well. "I agree with you about the wolves. It was fortunate that I only encountered one of the creatures last night and not a full pack, and though I don't personally wish to spend the day hunting them down, if they pose a risk to the folk around here we may consider taking action to rid the area of their threat if we see sign of them on the road. I trust your skill in matters related to the outdoors is far greater than my own, and I'd appreciate your knowledge in detecting any sign we may be entering their territory."

Taking Nathan's bowl if he offers it, Dolcetto returns to the farmhouse and knocks on the door, offering the bowls if the door is answered and relaying her encounter with the wolf the previous night.

[Navian]

Tora also takes 10 for 13. Intense!Tora simply puts the bowl down again, her expression revealing her incredulity, regardless of her smile. She's back in control once she's no longer looking at Dolcetto, though. "If you've wounded it, I don't think it will look for a fight unless it's gone mad. I'd rather not stop to pick berries while we're on the trail, but it may be we have no choice, the town isn't very nearby."

[Sliver]

The day before, with the talk of rain and mud, while Nathan cleans himself, he opts to not bother with his boots.

Nathan reads the note with amusement showing on his face. Curious fellow, that Johnathan.

As he finishes eating, he looks up at the approaching Dolcetto. "If I recall correctly, I, at least, have already agreed that we should travel together. That was, until you had taken off into the night, ignoring protest. Didn't you claim that your survival was thanks to your patience? Yet, it seems that you had a hostile encounter with one of the forest dwellers, while we had a relaxing sleep by the pond." Nathan says, though he smiles, hoping that Dolcetto won't take offense at that. He wasn't sure with that one, as her response to his little joke about her bathing was still confusing him. Was she simply playing along, or did she think he was serious about her feet...

"Anyway, no. Perhaps my prior agreement has been misunderstood. I wouldn't accompany you. We would accompany each other, if you wish. But that means that you don't simply take off with a wave and expect me to follow. Especially not while I'm still talking."

Nathan glances at Tora, but doesn't respond to her underlining hostility towards Dolcetto. (Taking 10 on sense motive for 14!) Instead, he responds to her words. "There's always a choice. As I said, I have plenty of rations for all of us to last at least until we reach the village."


With that, and being done eating, Nathan goes to the farm to inquire about the cheese. Finally! Do I dare hope? He thought with excitement.

[Navian]

"Ah. Right." Tora follows Nathan to the farmhouse, though she stops a good fifteen yards away to stand, watch, and cross her arms while waiting. Stern looks of disapproval were more of a Cuthbertite thing, so she wore a disapproving smirk instead. She was mostly just curious, though also a wee bit impatient.

[Archmage1]

Lauriel, in her armor once more, her porridge done, follows Nathan to the farm, along with Nathan and Dolcetta. Once there, she knocks, hoping to alert the farmer, or his daughter.

[dantiesilva]

@Lauriel Being an elf you never had needed much sleep growing up, and when you became a scout you had to go threw vigorous routines until you learned how little sleep your body could function on while still being able to act normally. Today was such a day as your shift finally came a few hours before the predawn light. Thankfully the stars and moon still shined bright enough for you to make out the finer details as you looked down below your leafy perch to those who seemed to be your traveling companions for now. Doubting any trouble would come this way before it was time for everyone to wake up on silent feet you made your way gracefully down the tree and began to strip out of your clean gown, replacing it once more with your cloak and armor that would allow you to once more blend in with your natural surroundings as you left the safety of the farm in search for firewood for Johnathan and his daughter.

For the next three and a half hours you work, only stopping to bring the piles of wood you have collected back to the Ireland farm. And while the wood was not split by the time you were done, there was a very large amount of branches, and one tree you had chanced upon, small as it may have been that you had gotten back to the pond. When you arrive back where the others are you can see the first rays of the new day and know that in but a half hour or more the others will be awake. Quickly you once more undress, going into the pond to remove the sweat from all the hard work you had just accomplished as the others slept. After all this way you could all depart immediately, as you enter the cold water of the pond you look back and notice three bowls of food that had not been there moments before, however looking around seems to not give you any clues as to where they had come from. Perhaps the voice that spoke to you yesterday was still there, and it was infact one of Johnathan's helpers.

Done with your quick bath you lay out in the morning light, allowing the suns rays to dry you in the cool morning breeze as the others begin to stir awake. Silently you watch all the others eat, noting how Tora seemed to push her bowl away to instead eat some nuts and a biscuit while she handed some note to Nathan saying it was for him. This Tora woman was indeed an odd one, passing up good food for nuts and a biscuit. However that didn't matter as you ate your own food.

@Everyone As the young elven woman from yesterday returns from camp you can hear the many sounds of the different animals upon the farm, and if one looked hard enough the farmer walking over to the barn. However the man was not as odd of a site as his daughter Elizabeth who was running towards the chicken coop with that raven flying by her side still, both seemed to be almost laughing as they went. However the little girl's laughter only grew as all the chickens began running around their coop when they spotted her. However thanks to the Raven by her side they were able to back them away from the gate and close it as the bird then used its beak to put a whole in a bag in the girls hand before she emptied the contents onto the ground. All watch as the chickens flee their coops to the food, and can see the little bird walking into each nest, and slowly flying in and out, with an egg in its claws each time that it gives to Elizabeth who places them carefully in some odd device she is carrying with her.

All thoughts behind you, you all walk to the farmhouse where Johnathan and his daughter live and return 2 empty bowls of food, while the last remains untouched. Tora looks on from a good distance away as you all stand their looking at the door. Thats when the farmers voice can be heard calling out to you in the distance. I am in the barn if you are waiting to talk to me. Sorry I thought I put that in the letter. The man calls out as you can hear the clear sound of a cow mooing.

[Archmage1]

Lauriel shrugs, and carefully places her empty bowl near the entrance, before she heads over to the barn. Once she arrives, she takes a look inside, before she starts speaking.
"We've left the bowls near your door, and the firewood is gathered. What supplies would you like Nathan to collect for you?"

[JDL]

Leaving the unfinished bowl Tora gave to her with Lauriels and walking over to the barn, Dolcetto speaks with Johnathan, describing again the wolf attack last night.

"In summary, I wanted to give you warning that this beast is prowling near your land. I'd hate to think of you losing any livestock to the creature, or even worse that yourself or your daughter would be attacked. I'm afraid I was only able to wound the creature before it fled. Please use caution until you're certain the wolf is gone for good. If there is anyone in town I can send to offer you assistance in driving it away, let me know their name and where I may find them and I'll happily pass on a message for you."

After waiting a moment to receive Johnathan's reply, Dolcetto addresses the rest of the travellers.

"I intend to be on my way now, so if we are headed in the same direction let us depart before the heat of the day becomes oppressive."

Dolcetto will take the road into town, travelling at half speed. She'll take 10 on Survival for 13 total to feed herself and one other person. She'll take 10 on Perception for 21 total to notice hazards or spot ambushes. She'll take 10 on Stealth for 13 total to hide from sight should she spot trouble.

[dantiesilva]

Everyone seems to get a good laugh as the voice speaks up and Dolcetto turns to follow the others to the barn where Johnathan was waiting. Had she instead chatted with those she wished to travel with and learned about them perhaps they would not have played such a trick on her. However with the trick done and over with, for now at least, you all head towards the barn house. Once you all arrive Lauriel is quick to take a peak inside, seeing for herself what it looked like. From what you could see on the first floor there seemed to be five stables on each side of the barn, all filled with hay if the ground was anything to go by. The two in the very back seemed to hold a horse in each, however what condition they are in you couldn't tell without riding, or at the very least getting a closer look. Against the back door sits a carriage, with all the equipment needed to attach the two horses to it. At least that explained how he sold all of his wares when the harvest came. Speaking of Johnathan where was he? Thats when you spot him stand up from the middle left stall, as he walks out of the stall with a bucket of fresh milk in his left hand. Morning I hope you all slept well, and Ms. Dolcetto its odd to see you here, you had told me you were leaving last night so I only had three bowls of food set aside this morning. Sorry about that, anyone care for some fresh milk while we talk though? Johnathan says as he offers you all a cup, and should you accept fills it with some of the milk.

Why thank you for collecting the firewood, I was wondering where you had run off to so early in the morning. As to what I need to be picked up in the village, its fertilizer. Already paid for mind you, just needs to make it back here, and Nathan told me he could send someone back with it yesterday if I am not mistaken. Johnathan says turning to make sure that was still the arrangement. Also I managed to find a few other kinds of cheese last night I had stored away if you still wish to trade. Though I do not know why, goat cheese is very rare, a delicacy in these parts. The man says happily.

Wolves a problem here, they are to afraid of Bandit and Tank to set foot on this land. Unless they got a new leader..hmm I will look into the matter, after all we used to have a muteral understanding. They didn't bother me, I didn't hunt them. Johnathan says a look of worry on his face. It's still odd though that a single one came and attacked you, be careful on the road. And as for sending someone from town here, no we can take care of ourselves in matters of nature. We have lived with the land my whole life, and when the time comes it will be to the land we return. Besides not many of the villagers would come rushing here anyways. Johnathan says as he goes into the next stall and sets down a stool for himself to sit on, as he once again begins milking the cows.

[Sliver]

Nathan nods. "Yes, I'll have them deliver it to you." He says. When and how did he pay for that fertilizer? What's the deal with the raven? And wh- Cheese! "Oh no, I don't care!" Nathan exclaims. "You can have it, here. Give me the real cheese!" He says, dropping his pack and pulling an untouched wedge of cheese, almost half a wheel, that was packed with his rations. With the trade done, Nathan is ready to depart.

[Archmage1]

Lauriel shakes her head at the offer of fresh milk.
"No, thank you. There was plenty of food for everyone who chose to have some, so don't feel bad about only setting out three bowls. However, I believe it is time for us to go, as we have a long way to go, and it is going to be raining if we don't move swiftly. Perhaps we'll meet again. Good luck."
With that, Lauriel turns to go, and starts walking.

[dantiesilva]

As Nathan gets excited about getting the real cheese Johnathan points to a cabinet in the back of the barn. Placed it in their this morning incase you caught me while I was still here. Tell you what, since you have goat cheese, did I tell you it was a delicacy here, you can have double the amount you offer me. he exclaims letting you go and look at the many kinds of cheeses he had hung up inside the cabinet, and stacked on shelves.

As you all begin to depart, your time here finished you get to the edge of the farm when you hear a little girls scream coming back from the farm. What was going on you had not even been gone three seconds and already something seemed to be going wrong, however should you turn back now and be caught in the rain, or just push on?

Perception checks at this time

[JDL]

Dolcetto's Perception Check:

[roll0]

Dolcetto's Familiar Perception Check:

[roll1]

[dantiesilva]

Lauriel your eyes miss nothing as you look back to the farm and notice the raven that had been following the girl around begin to drop from the sky, an arrow threw its right wing as it begins to plummet to the ground. Looking at the angle of the wound you can pinpoint where the attack came from as you see a lone figure in silver scale armor in the treeline, a bow made out of what looks like a deers antlers in hand. Looking back to where you saw the raven falling you notice the little girl surrounded by two large men, both wearing identical armor to the first you had seen, one seems to have a very large sword strapped to his back, and by the way he holds himself he is clearly the leader, while the other has a shorter blade in hand as well as a shield.

Where is your father Elizabeth, we rather not have to kill your pet, however its time he payed up. After all he doesn't want something bad happening to his farm now. Or perhaps I should just go tell the town that you posse magic, and they will pay us to get rid of you like they did with the Aufiens.

Lauriel and Dolcetto you both watch as the man infront says something to the little girl which seems to make her freeze in place, all color from what you can see has been drained from her normal happy complexion. At that moment you watch Johnathan exit the barn he had been in and whistle as two dogs bark in return. It seems he was not joking when he said he would not be taking any more trouble from these bandits, however could he really handle them on his own? And could you walk away from this after they had just shot that bird down.

[Archmage1]

Lauriel pauses the others.
"Well. That sounds bad. And looks bad. Looks like those bandits are attacking."

[JDL]

"You say you are paid to rid the town of practitioners of magic, sir?" says Dolcetto to the speaker, moving to place Nathan between herself and the line of fire of the archer in the woods. "I find this most disturbing. Magic is but a tool, no more or less dangerous and deadly than the weapons you carry. Perhaps it is more difficult to understand the ways the weave of power works invisibly across the land, but even you could respect the benefits it provides."

"Indeed, without the powers granted by magic, a simple wound could fester and kill. Imagine your child laying in their bed, the victim of a random snake bite, with no hope of restorative magics to cure his wound. Or perhaps you value less the healing powers granted and more the power such magic can provide to enhance your martial skills. For example, allow me to demonstrate..."

Dolcetto reaches into her spell component pouch, uttering arcane words of power as she points her finger at Nathan, her spell causing him to grow to enormous size!

Dolcetto casts Enlarge Person on Nathan.

[Archmage1]

Not what I was expecting. I was expecting them to be somewhat... reasonable, not immediatly draw all the attention they can to us. But no... she had to go and make things worse... we could have just walked away... but no... and now, if we act, we're going to need to dismantle the entire local power structure, or the remains will just keep smashing away at this farm. This is why Jervan told me to keep out of sight. But no... I couldn't even do that... He'd have some choice words for me right now... but... nothing for it...

Sighing to herself, Lauriel speaks up, as she draws the heavy longbow from her back.
"You had to do it, didn't you, Dolcetto. Now, the only way out is through them, and their bosses, and so on. All because you couldn't be patient. Killing people is not something that I enjoy. It is not something that I ever want to enjoy."

[Sliver]

Nathan ground his teeth as his body began to expand. The implications of Dolcetto's words and actions were clear. Combined with what the men said, their passing in the village would not go peacefully. The villagers sounded superstitious, dangerously so, but fighting here would have done them little good. It revealed their hand far too early, before they got to know their foe. Nathan couldn't comprehend how a woman so quick to trigger and rash to act could ever claim to be patient. It was no surprise to him now, that she would call him reluctant. It wasn't about prudence at all...

"Magic might be your tool, but I resent being used like one." He said quietly so that only their group could hear. "We will discuss this later, but consider this sword..." Nathan says, drawing it slowly. "It only works when I'm near my foes, you see. That's the nature of a sword. It has little effect when my foe is a couple hundred feet away from me, holding a bow, while I'm not an expert on throwing swords!"

No, Nathan knew that at this point, things could only go downhill. There would be no chance to avoid conflict here, and diplomacy was long gone. The village seemed to accept these thugs, so killing them would only turn the village against Johnathan, or themselves should they choose to take the blame. Which is what Nathan planned to do, with the direction things seemed to be going. He didn't like that idea, but perhaps if they will manage to subdue them... Tora might have healing magic, so that they could tie them up... Would Jonathan keep them alive? Nathan could only think of one way to avoid bloodshed right now, but the consequences for them might be even less welcome.

These men, however, they were thugs. They knew of magic, but their words... No, it wasn't fear or hate, what he would have expected from superstitious folk. No, they used it as a tool for extortion. It gave them leverage. The village's anti-magic policy gave them a tool, and as long as that tool existed, Jonathan and his daughter wouldn't be free.

Fighting these men would do us little good!

"Men, stand down." Nathan calls as he begins to approach. "It is clear that your words have struck a chord with our trigger happy wizard. If you had dealings with a real wielder of the arcane, you would know to be wary." He says, keeping his voice cold as he walks forward, watching for any movement from the archer. "We have little business in your village and have no ill intentions yet. That means, that not only you won't get paid to fight us, you will gain great enemies." Nathan makes sure his Cuthbertian cloak, now enlarged along with him and as large as a flag, show. "I am an enforcer from the church of St. Cuthbert. I represent the law wherever I go, and attacking me is a grave offense. It is clear from your words that you are extorting this man, using some nonsense threats to out his daughter so that he pays you. Even if it is the way of this land to hunt down those gifted, what you are doing is in no way legal or legitimate." He growls. "You are outnumbered, outranked and outsized, so I will repeat myself. Stand down. You will do nothing to this man and his daughter until I meet with your and the village's leader and we discuss this in a civil manner. Am I understood?"

[roll0]

[Navian]

Perception check probably doesn't matter, but initiative seems like it might. [roll0]Tora glances down very briefly, as if inspecting the dirt, while she readies and loads her sling. The action seems quite casual. She feels she has little to fear at this distance, except for her allies, whom she takes a few steps away from.Move action to ready her sling, move action to load it, if combat has begun already. If it hasn't, she'll pretend to wander about aimlessly, though she'll actually be moving into a flanking position. How far away are we? If we're more than a hundred feet away, talking to them should be impossible. "Tsk, picking on little girls," Tora comments, without projection.

[dantiesilva]

Who the hell said that? Captain Brooks said before his archer whistles and six times and the captain looks in your direction. Thats when Dolcetto begins to explain the practical uses of magic and makes Nathan grow against his wishes, which meets with a swift complaint from him. So Looks like you have a bunch of illegal practitioners of magic on your land Johnathan. I think if you want to keep this land it is going to cost a lot more then normal. After all none of them look like they have been threw the kings schooling. Brooks says to Johnathan who is walking towards his daughter. Brooks you let my daughter go now, or else I can grantee you wont all be returning to wherever you come from. says the man, a loaded crossbow in hands.

Just then Nathan calls of trying to stop everyone before things got ugly. Sorry but we are the law here priest. No one is above the laws of the Silver knights, so unless you want to be punished like this man and his daughter you better keep walking and forget you even saw us. Leave the mage however. Brooks says as he withdraws his bastard sword from behind him and places it at Elizabeth's throat. Now everyone lower your weapons or shall we see what color this witch bleeds? Brooks calls out. From your position 200ft. away you can see Johnathan lower his crossbow, not wanting to endanger his daughter.

However this did not stop Tora who was dressed in armor similar to their own as she tsked at the men and chide on them for picking on a little girl. Steve take her down. I can't sir she is still out of range. Well line up on her then, don;t want them getting any ideas now. Brooks calls out to his archer.

************************

From atop the barn two figures look down upon the scene taking place. Master should we intervene? comes the voice of a yellow skinned creature floating in the sky upon batlike wings. No Belgopher, let us watch and see what they do, should they try to harm Elizabeth I will move her to safety, I want to see what these people who have been hunting me for so long have inside them. I marked two of them yesterday, as such I want to see if they are worthy of learning the truth. Says a second voice, sounding barely out of its twenties. But master they could betray us, and you know how Fieran punishes those who fail her. I can assure you I will not fail in enacting my revenge. I swore that on my parents graves, do you doubt my resolve? The voice says as cold as the 5th layer of hell itself ruled by the mighty Leviathan. Of course not, forgive me. The figure besides him says clearly terrified.

********************

That would be a cutscene of invisible people so no you do not hear or see it.

[Sliver]

Nathan tenses, however stops his advance. "The corrupt are in no position to uphold the law, ever." He says with a growl. "You are not upholding the law, but demanding a bribe. Even if what you claim to be law is true, you are false. Your threats only prove it so. The girl is your only bargaining chip here, and you know it. You can only lose by harming her, I'm sure you can see that. Lower your weapons and let her go, you know that she and Jonathan have nowhere to go. Let us talk of your laws like civil men, in the village. You have nothing to fear if your cause is just, and if you can prove yourself I will not stand in your way." Nathan said, though he knew that such a man couldn't prove himself. He didn't know if his words reach the man and convince him, but he didn't want the girl harmed...

[Navian]

Tora's weapon was already hanging down from her wrist, as this was the normal ready position for a sling. She was not sure how to lower a sling any further without outright dropping it, and did not mind the conundrum this presented. "I can't stop you from committing cold-blooded murder," commented Tora as she circled the men, "But the gods will see you burn for it. Are you already murderers? The gods can make you burn more than once, you know." Taking cover was not appropriate, not when her foe was still out in the open. That was no reason to overcommit herself. Surely Kord could forgive her for standing boldly against an inferior foe, without her neglecting to dodge their deadly coward's projectiles. For now, she left Brooks alone and focused on the archer. The child was not the only one being threatened, here.
Using Bluff to attempt to convince them that killing their hostage would be a bad idea. [roll0]

[JDL]

"I can probably disarm that one with the sword before he can harm the girl," Dolcetto whispers to the rest of her three companions. "The trouble is that it's not guaranteed to work, and I'm sure if I do it they will attack. I'll try only if I'm positive he's about to kill her. Nathan, that spell won't last all day, so if you plan to charge him and wrestle that sword out of his hands do it quickly. I'll do what I can to talk them down first."

Taking a quick moment to quetly cast Mage Armor on herself out of view of the soldiers, Dolcetto walks out from behind Nathan and shows both her hands are empty. Then she walks within twenty feet of the pair holding the girl.

Readied action: Cast Grease on Brook's bastard sword at Elizabeth's throat only if Dolcetto is sure Brooks is going to kill the girl and not just threatening.

"So you claim authority from the Silver Knights? Interesting claim, as when I met them myself they did not seem at all disturbed that I have ability with magic. Indeed I am a mage, and proudly so. I am trained at the College of the Lady in Silverymoon in the eight schools. Your laws regarding training apply to your own citizens, not my people. We elves keep our own council. Nevertheless if you wish me to accompany you to town and present myself before the authorities I will oblige. I also intend to give them a full recounting of your behaviour here today."

"I travelled here under the request of the Silver Knights to investigate reports of a conjurer of demons named Ryl Aufein whose heinous acts were responsible for countless deaths. I pledged in good faith to find this person and see them brought to justice. Yet if you truly are representative of the manner in which power exists in these lands, I think my journey here has been a grave error. The suffering you face is wrought by your own hand, by oppression of your own brothers and sisters. You declare war on those who express the talent for magic? What next then, once your task is complete and you've slaughtered anyone who can cast a cantrip? Shall you begin a racial purge of anyone with elven blood in their veins, given our people's natural connection to the weave? I think it unwise to remain here and discover the answer. Put away your blade sir and remain civilized, and you'll have no fight from me. Continue to threaten this child, whether or not she possess magical talent, and you shall face the anger of no mere hedge wizard half mad with fear, but a fully trained mage of the arcane order of Silverymoon."

[dantiesilva]

As the giant sized man speaks up the guard to the left of Brooks looks to him, as if asking what to do. They say that our lord is not fit to rule, heretics one and all. They mark our customs, and go so far as to assume we gain nothing out of killing this girl. You all know the punishment for that boys, death. Brooks says as he looks to his two men, not noticing Tora's advance as he does so. We don't need to prove ourselves to you. We are the upholders of the law, and as such we shall enact it. A practitioner of magic who refuses to go to the proper schooling is considered a danger. We have let her live do to our hosts generosity. However as you fools want to interfere I think its time we cashed in on our pay check that has been growing here. You all watch as Elizabeth tries to break free at this statement, only to get smacked across the face by a gauntled hand. Be still girl, or you will die first.

As Dolcetto speaks up about her mission and what she knows, Brooks seems to get only more annoyed as the man to his side begins to show signs of doubt. Enough of this, open fire on the mage, she will bring in a pretty price. But before you die you should know, that there is no Aufein line, as I told you me and my men killed them. They refused to take proper training and as such suffered the law. As will all those here now. The man says as an arrow comes flying at you, his talking a mere distraction as his own blade goes to slice Elizabeth's throat only to see her vanish. If you wish the girl to live do not resist. Comes a voice into Nathan's mind as it gives him the ability to move as time seems to freeze for all but him.



Attack against Dolcetto as she is a caster Attack of 11 damage 10 if hit

Nathan the spell being used on you allows you to move 1.5 your speed in any direction

Also no one can see where Elizabeth is as she joined the other two invisible people.

Map (http://pyromancers.com/media/view/main.swf?round_id=99461)


************************************

I knew you wouldn't let them hurt me. Says Elizabeth as she hugs a man cloaked in a crimson cloak as they look down on the scene from the roof of the barn. I promised the day you were born no harm would come to you, what kind of man would I be if I fell back on that now? The man says kindly as he wraps his arms around her lovingly. I believe your friends may need some help if things get bad, do you want to try that spell I have been teaching you if the time comes? But daddy doesn't want me to use my magic. These people want to kill you and your friends Elizabeth, sometimes you must do a little bad for the greater good. The man says gently, like a teacher to a favorite student.

****************************************

[Archmage1]

Surprised at the child's disappearance, Lauriel darts forward, to try to get a better shot against the archer in the trees, hoping to take him out quickly. She pulls out an arrow, draws it back, and fires in one smooth motion, clearly prepared to dodge to protect herself from return fire.


[roll0] attack(Range penalty included)
Move 10 feet forwards .
Dodging the archer, (AC 16 vs him)
[roll1] damage
[roll2] skirmish bonus

[Navian]

With their bow-wielding foe demolished, Tora was free to be as bold as she wished to be. She eagerly ran toward Sergeant Brooks with her sling trailing behind her, her armour and weapons clamoring against her muscular frame. "Haven't you heard? An unenforceable law is no law at all!"

Run action to move 80' closer to Brooks.

[JDL]

An arrow flies past Dolcetto fast enough to punch a hole through her chest, missing her by mere inches. Dolcetto starts cursing loudly in Infernal as she moves towards the cover of the farmhouse. The vitriolic tirade goes on for some time due to the unusually broad selection of invectives found in the language. She pulls her longbow from her back and readies to use it against the archer that fired at her, but a gurgling scream that cuts off abruptly informs her that the assailant is already no longer a threat. Nearby she hears the clanking of armor as Tora powers forward, eager to mete out her own brand of fiery justice.

Move Action: 20 ft. movement to C18
Standard Action: Draw shortbow

[dantiesilva]

Lauriel caught by surprise by the sudden disappearance of Elizabeth you see your chance to act, as the three men are caught up in their confusion you move forward firing forth a single arrow. As you let the arrow lose you watch its flight as it seems to pass right between Brooks, and the man standing by his side before imbedding itself in the chest of the archer, if you had to guess you had only missed the heart by a small margin. You would have to do better next time, thats when you hear a satisfying thump and change your mind, your captain would be proud of how well you had grown over the years.

Tora as you charge forward you notice the two dogs of Johnathans moving with your actions as the farmer himself moves fumbling with the crossbow in his hands. However his aim is not as good it seems as you were led to believe as the shot goes high. Thankfully however Bandit and Tank seem to have moved along with you, accepting you into their pack to take down this new foe. You think your good because you killed the new recruit. You still have a long way to go girly if you think that was our best. Brooks says as he takes his wicked blade into both of his hands and bends his knees. Well care to see who can enforce the law?


Party
Nathan
Joh+dogs
Enemy

Map (http://pyromancers.com/media/view/main.swf?round_id=99477)

From behind Nathan seems to vanish into thin air, much like Elizabeth had moments ago, but how was that possible he wasn't a wielder of the arcane? Where did that devil go? Shouts Brooks before Nathan appears closer to the group. I think its time you see how I earned my title. Brooks says as he charges Tank, and nearly cuts the dog in two, as Tank moves at the last second, losing only his front leg, as he goes down. It is clear that should this dog not receive medical treatment it would die. Come now children, I am just getting warmed up. The man who had mostly remained silent so far watches as his leader almost beheads the dog by his side, and feeling courage charges the dog near him, hoping to do the same to impress his boss, and make you all surrender. And so Bandit also falls, her tail chopped clean off, as well as her left ear. Ha thats it boy. shouts Brooks as both dogs lay dying at the two silver knights feet.

Map (http://pyromancers.com/media/view/main.swf?round_id=99480)

[JDL]

Satisfied that the danger from the archer has been neutralized, Dolcetto moves out from her concealed position into the open, pulling an arrow from her quiver and nocking it in a smooth, practised movement. She aims at Brooks and lets fly with a grunt.

Move Action: Move 40 ft. to W14
Standard Action: Ranged Attack vs. Brooks

Attack: [roll0] (-2 range increment penalty)
Damage: [roll1]

[Sliver]

Nathan finds himself closer to Brook than before through the feat of the same mysterious force that teleported away the girl. "You ask for devotion over thought!" He shouts at Brooks. "You claim to have nothing to prove, but you are FALSE! You cannot prove yourself, so you rush your companions to death so they have no time to think!" He turns to the last man remaining. "Is that what you wanted to do? Become a greedy bandit, terrorizing farmers and girls? Is that the man you want serve?!" He sees Tank getting sliced and charges at Brooks.

Charge, PA for -1A, +2D.

[roll0]
[roll1]

Next maneuver: [roll2]

[dantiesilva]

Nathan as you watch Tank fall to the ground dead you think back to your days in the church, where you had to deal with some of the most corrupt people in the world. However you were no longer at the church, it was here you would carve out a name for yourself, and become the new face of your god. A god who valued compassion for others, and punished those who were vile. And so you charge headlong into battle, and whether it be divine intervention, or pure force of will you slice both of Sergent Brooks legs clean off of his body, as the man screams out in pain. Immediately his subordinate throws down his weapon and surrenders. Please show mercy, I was only following orders. The man says as he looks on fear gripping his very soul as he looks at the mangled body of Brooks, who lay bleeding to death before all of you. What to do now though?

[Sliver]

Nathan looks at the fallen Brooks with unease. One slice... He thought. He wished us death, and now he will live a cripple... Shaking his head and his doubts away, Nathan walks to the surrendered man, towering over him, and takes his weapon. He grabs the man and lifts him slightly off the ground. "Do not resist, and you won't be harmed." He says and pulls him behind as he approaches Brooks, looking at the others. "Does any of you have healing for Brooks and the dogs?" He asks, pulling rope from his backpack. "And skill with rope, for this man. Also, the archer. Can someone check if he is still alive? Too much blood has been spilled already." With that, he takes Brooks' weapon away too. Can't be too safe.

[JDL]

Immediately Dolcetto runs towards the place she last saw the archer, searching for the fallen man now that the danger had passed. Brooks was, beyond a shadow of a doubt, very much done for, and there was little left that could be done to save the man. The farmer's dogs, severely wounded though they may be, were a distant second in her mind. Finding his body, she checks for a pulse and desperately attempts first aid. "If anyone can help me, we have a wounded man here!" she shouts back towards the others.

Heal check to provide First Aid
[roll0]

Familiar Aid Other:
[roll1]

[Navian]

Tora's focus on her foes was not broken simply because they had all somehow fallen before she could engage them. She continued to approach, at a jog, stowing her sling in her belt for the moment, and took out her mace. She raised it high over the erstwhile Sergeant Brooks, and locked eyes with him to survey his expression for one brief moment. Annoyed by the man's distraction with his mortal wounds, she strikes him down with the wroth of her battle rage. As he cannot survive a single casual blow, Tora's face is red with frustration, and her muscles twitch, unsatisfied, as she looks about in search of another just victim.

The surrendering man draws her gaze. "Now you're done following orders," she begins, scathingly, before shouting, "What now?"

[Sliver]

Nathan glares at Tora, still enlarged and towering, and grabs her. "What have you done?!" He demands. "Brooks was posing no danger anymore. He never would have!" Nathan growled. "Who gave you the right of execution?!"

[Navian]

That's... not... wise. I don't need to roll for your grab attempt, but if Tora's AoO hits, the grab attempt fails automatically. I'll have to edit in more, depending on what happens.

As Nathan steps in to loom over and grab Tora, she immediately turns and swings her mace in a horizontal arc, to drive him back. He avoids a serious blow. She is clearly enraged and affronted.

[Sliver]

Nathan slaps the mace away and glares at Tora. "I do not know what hardships brought you to become such an unstable individual. I do know that this is not the way Kord preaches, and this would never be the face of one he would choose." Nathan says in a calm voice. "There is no honor in killing a defeated man, especially not one that was not your opponent." He takes a step away from her, and makes sure that he would be between her and the last soldier, the one still alive. "Stand down, Tora."

[Navian]

Tora speaks quickly, and over Nathan, holding her mace upright to ward off giant paws.

"Shut up. You speak and act out of turn, you great fat triumphant lizard. Look at what you did." She gives Brooks' severed body parts a brief, terse gesture. "Look at what I did." She indicates the Brooks' collapsed upper body. "Look at what he did." She gestures toward Brooks' men. "He tormented a little girl and took her hostage. He ordered my death for one mild comment. He was a bandit, a brute, and an impressively corrupt official! Look at yourself." One final, rude gesture. "You 'defeated' him as the hangman does! I am no executioner--this was my battle!"

[JDL]

Sighing with relief as the archer's bleeding wounds stop flowing, Dolcetto begins to systematically remove the unconscious man's possessions and place them in her pack. She takes his weapons and quiver of arrows, removes his armour and, once he appears to have nothing left spare his underclothes and the makeshift bandages she's wrapped around his wounds, she gently drags him back towards the rest of the group, careful not to reopen his injuries.

"I found the archer and stablized his wounds. He's alive but unconscious. I've taken the liberty of removing his weapons in case he regains consciousness and decides to do something foolish. I've also relieved him of his armour so that he may rest without discomfort and recover. Johnathan, will your animals recover from their wounds?"

[Sliver]

Nathan shakes his head. "This wasn't a duel. You weren't the only one threatened and targeted, Tora. Are you so foolish, expecting everybody to stand back so you get a chance at glory? Your time will come, eventually, but this? Here? Is this how you seek it, like a thug? You didn't get your chance, so you are reacting like a crazed beast, lashing out at anything that looks like a target?"

"I did not intend to cripple him, but a fight has consequences. I did what I had to do. What you did was pointless."

[Navian]

Tora is wry and sneering. "It seems you're not looking at yourself. I'd give you an awful speech about your personality and future prospects, but as you're so good at bad oratory, why don't you write it yourself?" As Nathan would not be shamed by her words, despite her conviction, Tora switched tactics. "Back off, lump. You have no right to call me a brute, or to claim what you did was 'necessary'. ...I don't even know what in the Hells you did, but it resembled high-speed teleporting bisection." The wryness of her expression was overwhelming. She did not have to explain what she thought of it--dirty and cowardly.

[JDL]

Dolcetto watches at the exchange between Tora and Nathan with unease. She wasn't present to witness Tora's summary sentencing of Brooks, but she can guess all too easily what has just occurred.

"For my part, I apologize to you for inadvertently triggering this confrontation in the first place Sir Nathan. Nevertheless I believe we were justified in defending the girl from harm, even at the cost of the life of the attacker. Brooks refused to see reason and paid the price of his arrogance with his life. We should discuss what remains to be done, but I would prefer we do so in a more private setting," she says to Nathan, gesturing with her head to the last conscious man. She takes the rope from Nathan and walks towards the captive.

"If you wish no more confrontation you will follow my directions. Walk towards the large oak," she says, walking behind her impromptu prisoner. When they arrive, she searches him for hidden weapons and strips him of his armour in the same manner as his companion. Placing his possessions in her pack, she ties his arms and legs to the tree and returns to the group, hoping that by now Nathan and Tora have settled their argument.

[Archmage1]

Jervan would be a bit disappointed by that shot, I think. I missed my mark, but the target still fell. Not good, but not bad.
She winces as she sees the suffering of the dogs, especially the removed tail and leg, knowing that it was likely that they would never really recover from that.
Ignoring the argument between Tora and Nathan, Lauriel moves forwards, trying to help the fallen dogs. They had done nothing to deserve what happened to them.

[roll0] heal Tank
[roll1] heal Bandit

[dantiesilva]

Nathan as the last man surrenders you immediately began trying to make order out of the chaos that has ensured in this battle. The fact Brooks went down with only one attack still leaves you unnerved as you ask if anyone could help you with healing Brooks, his men, and the two dogs as well as searching for the archer to make sure no more blood is shed. Dolcetto is the first to respond as she seems to rush off into the forest to find the archer. Thankfully it doesn't take long due to him being out cold, however she she had to do something about that arrow. Ripping off a piece of the mans cloak you quickly rip the arrow out before applying the rag to his wound, tying it off with another rag. With luck this would stop the bleeding, however if he recovered or not was in the hands of others now as you had done all you could.

Archer is stable

Everything seems to be going well to, thats when you hear the sound of a weapon being drawn and turn just to watch Tora slam her mace into the unconscious Brooks head. Get her away from me she is crazy. This is exactly what we were talking about with those who wield magic. the man who had just surrendered said as he tries to flee from the red haired womans fury, even though he is tied on the ground this doesn't stop him from getting a few feet away before Nathan tries to step in and stop her from her rampage. What ensures the next few moments is a battle of morals to say the least as the battle crazed maiden tries claiming that this was her battle and you had no right to get involved. Yet had you not gotten involved, as well as that mysterious voice no doubt the little girl would be dead by now. Speaking of her, where was Elizabeth, and why didn't Johnathan seem worried about where she may be at this moment?

Dolcetto with your make shift job complete you immediately begin stripping this man of all his possessions. This way he could pose no threat to anyone, before you drag him slowly back over to the others. Where a fight still rages on between two of the people you had been thinking about traveling with. It seemed this Tora woman seemed to get into a lot of fights, first with Johnathan over work, now this....She clearly had issues with her temper, could she be trusted to travel with you and not lose it herself?

Lauriel separating yourself from the argument going on you immediately begin trying to stable the two faithful dogs who had come to aid their master. You could tell by looking at them they would never have a simple life again, and everything would be much harder for them. However thankfully Dolcetto had returned with the supplies of the archer, and with them you see a few healer's kits that you quickly open to help save the two dogs. With everything done you look up to the barn house and notice Elizabeth floating down to the ground slowly.


Masterwork Composite longbow (+2Str)
100 arrows
Masterwork Longsword
3 sets of masterwork scalemail (all appearing to be silverish in color)
4 healer's kits
480gp
Masterwork Bastard sword
5 sunrods
3 thunderstones
2 pairs of masterwork manacles

Just then you all notice a horse in armor similar to Brooks come running out of the woods towards the now dead man. And in its rush it seems to trample over Tora, killing her as she had done to its master.

[Sliver]

Stifling a curse, Nathan rushes to Tora's body and crouches besides her, examining the body. After a moment of silence, he shakes his head. Nathan didn't wish her dead, though he wasn't sure what he did wish. Could he have simply turned away from her, ignoring her crimes? He felt that he could never reach an agreement with her, and wasn't sure that it wouldn't resort to an exchange of blows... The horse may have ended the conflict and kept his own hands relatively clean, but his conscience was still troubled.

[roll0] What religion do the silver knights follow or inclined towards? Or at least, what are their funeral rituals?
Taking 10 for Kord followers, as that I think he should know.

If he doesn't know about the Silver Knights, Nathan will ask the captive.

"Elizabeth, are you alright? What happened to you?" Nathan asks, looking at her as she finished floating.

He shortly examines the pile of confiscated weaponry, gold and other items before turning and walking to Jonathan. "I am sorry for your dogs, they were brave and loyal... I know it would do little good for them now, but I would like you to take fifty gold coins from what we gathered. You could buy two new dogs, or find a craftsman who could figure out a contraption to make your own feel more comfortable. The choice is yours." He said. Nathan knew that he left the others little choice on the manner, but if they didn't agree with him, then this would simply come out of his own "share".

The debate on that manner was short. He may have heeded the call of the Silver Knights, but any organization spread out thin, can have some branches that are corrupted by the power of authority they are given. Brook's corruption was proven by his hostility while being held under scrutiny. there are no moral qualms about confiscating their belongings at this point. Distributing the gold among those who suffered under Brook, or the community in general, didn't seem practical. Nor did it seem wise. He had a feeling their interference might not be welcomed and didn't want to add gold to fuel their hatred anyway.

He turned and walked over to their captive. "Soldier, what is your name?" He asked. "First, let me explain something to you. Upholding the law does not give you the right to attack those who question you. What happened here, besides the field execution, was self defense. Your commander has proved himself unfit. If you disagree, speak now. I will submit myself to trial, but not to your superiors, and not now. Now, we have other manners to attend to." Nathan says in a calm voice.

"Now, tell us about this family that you had executed."

[Archmage1]

Spotting Elizabeth descending, Lauriel nods, not really all that surprised.
Interesting. Judging by the rapidity of spellcasting, there were at least two other casters nearby. Who acted solely to protect Elizabeth. Her parents? But that implies that magic has been banned her for a long time. Which doesn't fit with Brooks being rogue.
She observes the horse trample Tora, but doesn't take any actions as the horse moves off, and Tora... doesn't.
Either she survived, or she didn't, and I believe Nathan is checking.
Tieing a final knot, Lauriel gathers the useful equipment from the fallen(And prisoners), piling it up.
"Quite a lot of useful gear here. It certainly seems that they were working for someone. But let's see what the survivor has to say."

[dantiesilva]

The Silver knights are shrouded in mystery, they are well known in the region of High mount, however are very rarely found outside of its borders. From the few times you have encountered them you could tell their order kept mostly to themselves, not allowing outsiders to see their traditions. However as they happened to be in your churches town they had to abide by the church of the Judge. From what little you had seen before they shut the door, it seemed like they burned the body. Perhaps this was to stop its soul from returning to the mortal world, however they never told you why they did it.
As to the followers of Kord, they were much easier to understand. Living the life of warriors there was no greater honor then dying in battle to them, and when one of their own died their deeds were spoken of over the body before the leader in the prayers screamed up to the heavens letting all know that a great warrior had died, so that the dead knew.

As the little blonde floats down to the ground before landing safely onto the ground, not a scratch on her you begin to ask what happened to her. My master saved me, didn't you see him? After all he helped you as well. And if I am not mistaken it looks like two of you bear his mark. Elizabeth says pointing to the foreheads of Dolcetto and Lauriel as if it was perfectly visable to your eyes. However no matter how hard you look you can not see it on either of their heads. Then again he doesn't like to show himself often when strangers are around. Says it puts us in danger for what I am. Elizabeth says looking a bit sad at those thoughts. But everything's okay now, my master and I saw everything. And he knows for sure now that I am safe among all of you. She says smiling as Johnathan walks over to her side and hugs her lovingly. Now you see why we don't use magic, I still don't know what we are going to do about this however. Any chance he can take care of it Elizabeth? Johnathan asks his daughter before she seems to zone out for a moment. Once they are gone he says, while he trusts them not to harm us, they have not earned more then that he says. Something about dancing on a fine line, and the truth. The little girl says clearly confused by what she had been told.

That is very generous of you Nathan, and if those with you agree I would be honored to accept such a gift. Though it would mean I would have to go into town, I think keeping Bandit and Tank alive would be a crime to them. They are in pain, and forcing them to live like this would be cruel to them. It would be better to allow them to rest in whatever heaven they called home. Johnathan says as he looks at the two dogs, a single tear coming from his eye as if he had just lost two very close and dear friends.

Lauriel just gets finished tying the final knot on the prisoners rope as you begin to question him. I don't think I or Elizabeth should be around for this, don't want to be considered witnesses. As it is one thing to defend ones land, another to assault someone. Come Elizabeth, and when you are done if you need me we will be inside. Johnathan says as him and Elizabeth leave, the little girl wazing to all of you as she is led to the house.

That only left the two still living prisoners, one of which were still awake and you as you begin to question him. Name is Y B, short. I know not very long, I rather not get into it though. Please I'll tell you anything just let me live. The man says clearly afraid of what might happen to him. The law says all unlicensed mages who refuse to surrender are to be killed on spot. That woman right there used magic to make you bigger, we told you all to drop your weapons and no one did. You were not defending yourselves you were breaking the law. The man says softly, clearly afraid of what his answer may bring upon him. And how can you say you will agree to a trail if you refuse to be judged by my superiors? Who would you be judged by then, one of your own? They do not know the laws of this land. And for killing an upholder of this land you would be found guilty. The man says gaining strength with his words, So see if you kill me then that would be two dead law keepers on your hands, and assault as well. Harboring an unlicensed mage. That would be a death sentence, so of course you would refuse to be judged. The priosner says to Nathan.

Then you ask about the family they had killed and the prisoner looks up as if thinking for a moment. You mean the Aufein's? That was over ten years ago, why would you want to know about that? he asks and from what you can tell he is dead serious, you asking a question about it seemed odd to him.

[Sliver]

"You are mistaken on many counts, Y B. You were not threatened by us, you were questioned on your actions, to which your commander responded with force. We are not of this land, so questions were in order. Maybe you are deaf, but I have asked your commander to talk over this in a civil manner. He is the one who refused, not I. Perhaps you also forget that you were extorting the family, threatening to reveal her magical nature to the village. Doesn't sound like you were upholding the law, as much as looking to fill your pockets. So perhaps you should reconsider your position, before you continue with this line of argument." Nathan says calmly. "As for the Aufein family, your own question is interesting. It is the Silver Knights themselves who asked for aid, searching for a man known as Ryl Aufein. This is rather recent news. Either you managed to remain ignorant of many recent events, your mind has been tampered with, or you have something to hide. Now, care to elaborate on which of these is true, and answer my previous question?"

[roll0]

[dantiesilva]

You can call it what you want, however if another group had fallen upon her she would have been killed on site if she didn't come. Brooks couldn't bring himself to killing a kid, and so each month we came to get a few extra supplies. Nothing to big, just to earn some extra coin. Can't blame us for that. Y B says, and you can tell he is being honest about this, that still left the question of why Brooks placed the blade to Elizabeth's throat then? Could he have thought that you would rat him out if he didn't do as his laws said?

You were asked to come take care of Ryl, that boy as far as we knew died the same time his family did. I don't know why they would ask you to come and kill him as well dead men don't exactly walk around every day. Brooks and us were a simple border patrol for a small village, perhaps it was one of the bigger towns that said it and news never came to us. Had we known we would have went to investigate his families old farm house ourselves. I am as lost as you are on this I swear. His family was one of our first missions. Brooks and a few others had been called to investigate tales of witchcraft coming from the town. Children missing or becoming sick randomly, you know demon stuff, when we got to town a few kids came running towards us saying they had seen a kid use magic. For the next few weeks we followed watched the family to confirm what was said was true and when we learned they did in fact practice magic we attacked. Y B says as he remembers the past. The boys father alone took down half of us with a fireball when we came to his farm, buying his wife and Ryl time to flee.
We eventually backed them all up into the house, and after a few hours killed every last one of them as far as I know. I know my own blade never pierced Ryl, however from all accounts he died there with his parents as there was no body to confirm. You see we lit the place on fire once the task was done to make sure they could not come back from the dead threw any vile means. the man says.

[Sliver]

Nathan shakes his head. "You either show mercy, or you don't. If you were protecting Jonathan and his girl, you wouldn't have needed to threaten them." He sighs. "If you would have been able to use your words better, maybe your commander wouldn't have felt that he needs to attack us. I am sorry, Y B, unlike Brook, I did not want anyone to die here." Nathan said with finality, indicating that he saw no point in continuing this discussion.

Nathan pauses, considering Y B's words. "The description I heard of Ryl is of an old man. Ten years ago, he was a boy? That makes no sense. Perhaps a different man, and the boy was named after him? Perhaps someone unrelated, picking the name by chance?" He muses aloud before looking back at Y B. "Bones don't burn well, did you know that? They don't simply crumble into ash and fly into the air. They break and fracture, leaving quite distinct fractures. After a funeral pyre, there are caretakers who collect the bones and ground them into dust. That is something that you learn while serving in a temple. Not all lessons are pleasant. Where is the house, Y B?"

[Archmage1]

Not particularly interested in the information from the captured thug after his information about Ryl, Lauriel sets out to catch the horse.

[dantiesilva]

Lauriel it doesn't take you long to catch the horse, as it seemed trained well for battle and knew someone who served in some form of army when it saw one. Like Brooks his heavy warhorse also seems to where the silver scale mail, which seems odd and out of place for someone who was a bandit.

Nathan as you explain to Y B about how you properly get rid of bones he shakes his head. Even with that someone could properly raise a creature from the dead if they wished it. We have special mages who went threw the proper schooling burn the bones in acid so nothing can bring the person back. As for someone else taking his name I am not sure, I have never left the area I was born in. I can say Ryl was a child, not much older then Elizabeth at the time, and that his family's farm is a few hours from here. If you keep going due West you should reach it in less then two hours. the man says, However what will you do with us? After all if you leave us with Johnathan he will no doubt kill us for our crimes against his family. And if you let us go you have no proof we won't run back to town and bring an entire platoon out looking for you. Y B says making it a point for you to know he wants to know what is to become of him and his last remaining ally.

[Archmage1]

After catching the horse, Lauriel brings it back, gently holding the reins. When she speaks, her voice seems calm, as if the deaths dealt here didn't matter.
"They seem quite uniform for bandits. While you were questioning the prisoner, did you learn anything else about his group? It seems to be quite well funded, and I don't think raiding farms could produce the income needed for that."

[JDL]

Dolcetto turns to Johnathan, looking the farmer pointedly in the eyes.

"The soldier has a point. I want you to swear not to harm these men if we should leave them in your care. We have done you a service protecting your daughter from Brooks, and this is the payment we ask in return. To kill them will only bring worse vengeance upon you in the long term."

Diplomacy to convince Johnathan to take the prisoners and not harm them
[roll0]

Speaking with Nathan and Lauriel, Dolcetto starts packing the remaining supplies onto Brooks' horse.

"We should move now, before more misfortune befalls us. This animal is likely known to the locals and it will raise suspicion if we are seen in possession of it in town. I suggest we turn towards the ruins of the Aufein farmhouse. It's the only lead we have so far. Nathan, if Brooks' armor fits you, you may wish to wear it and attempt the best you can to disguise yourself as him. It may not fool anyone who examines it closely, but perhaps if we pass anyone on the road it will be enough to mislead them into thinking it's Brooks riding his horse. Meanwhile, Brooks and Tora should be buried. It's unseemly to allow their bodies to lay in the open, not to mention unhygenic."

Taking the body of Brooks, Dolcetto starts to drag him towards the treeline. She does the same with Tora, stopping only to first remove Tora's possessions and add them to the horse. Then, fetching a spade from the side of the barn, she begins digging two graves for the fallen.

[Sliver]

"The Silver Knights burn the bodies, so they can't be defiled by necromancy. Perhaps Y B should be the one to burn the body..." Nathan tells Dolcetto. "Though I can't preform the burial rituals of Kordians, and do not know how to treat those who had not fallen in battle..." He adds with regret.

He turns back to the captive. "You said there were no bodies after you burned down the house, Y B. If they died, someone took their bones. However, if there was another caster there, they could have escaped without your notice. Besides, even if there were bones there, you said it yourself. Children were missing. I doubt you would have been able to distinguish the bones of a kidnapped child and that of Ryl, especially after a fire. You destroyed evidence..." Nathan says.

Sighing, Nathan continues. "You will not be killed, and whatever you decide to do is your choice. I am being honest with you when I'm saying that this is not how I wanted things to end. We answered the call of the Silver Knights and our goal is to help against a threat. If your conscious demands that you would attack us once again, then so be it. I cannot stand between a man and his sense of justice. However, I will defend myself and my allies again. It is up to you, then, if you wish there to be more death in a battle between those who are supposed to be allies. I trust that you are a good man, Y B, so I will trust your judgement as well. Your companion, however, is injured. You will either have to abandon him, or plead with Jonathan for a place to rest until he recovers. You will not reach the village for at least 3 days, if his wound isn't too bad... Who knows where we will be by then." Nathan explains. "I am curious though. What will you tell the villagers when they find out that you were hiding the girl's nature? You have known long enough, yet obviously haven't done anything about it, besides ask for a bribe... Don't you think that would hurt not only your position there, but also the reputation of the Silver Knights as a whole?" Nathan said speculatively.

He turns back to Dolcetto and Lauriel, speaking so that Y B can also hear. Perhaps the man would be inclined to correct him on what he was going to say, and Nathan wanted to hear more of what the man had to say. "They weren't bandits, but a delegation sent by the Silver Knights years ago. I suspect that there is little to no communication between this group and their superiors since. The incident with Ryl's family was poorly reported or poorly handled, otherwise someone among the Silver Knights would have noticed the connection and came to investigate themselves, yet the fact that they haven't heard of Ryl's recent... Incidents... Suggests that none of this has happened. Perhaps their superiors forgot about them and Brook decided to enjoy this freedom. When they discovered Elizabeth, Brook might have been afraid that if she is revealed to the others, he will be noticed by the Silver Knights and lose his autonomy, so he convinced his men that they were doing the family a kindness by extorting them. Or perhaps he truly was growing soft... When Dolcetto used her magic on me, Brook must have felt cornered and made a rash decision when he couldn't intimidate us." He turns to Dolcetto. "It is too late now, but please, don't let your emotions control you again. I realize that seeing a child threatened for using magic is something hard to see, especially for you, but your actions pretty much negated any chance of that situation being solved in a diplomatic manner. Brook was caught between his duty and his morals... I know how that feels... When we appeared, magical and threatening, he was a cornered beast. He was no longer able to hear us out and rationalize it... He fell back on familiar arguments of devotion and law, and ended up paying for it." Nathan says, then turns to Y B. "I am sorry." He says once more, before shaking his head with regret.

He turns back to Dolcetto. "I am no rider, it would be noticeable enough. We should simply remove the armor from the horse... Once we talk to Jonathan, I agree, the Aufein house is our best lead at the moment."

[Archmage1]

Listening, Lauriel nods.
"Interesting. But if they had men here, why would they put out a call for help? Unless all contact had been lost, of course."

[dantiesilva]

Dolcetto leaving the group behind you follow Johnathan towards his house as you had a few questions for him. However as you ask them the simple farmer seems a bit troubled by some of your requests. So now I am to allow those who have plagued me and my daughter for the last few years and just recently tried to kill her get off Scott free. I don't know about you but that sounds a bit much to ask for. If someone threatened someone you cared for, all but killed two of your family pets, and then proceeded to have stolen goods from you for years would you not want to kill them? Johnathan says as he weighs his options. However them being found dead on my land also is not good for me, tell you what. I will allow them to stay until the other one wakes up and is able to walk, once he can they both have to leave. Fair? Johnathan asks you trying to be reasonable in this situation.

Not exactly, you see if we went to town and explained Brooks was dead, and our goods stolen they would ask how it happened. And we could simply tell them the truth, during and investigation a real mage came and we acted as we are taught. The mage refused to surrender so we attacked. The mage and her cut Brooks in half, and shoot down Steve over there. So you see, we are not lying at all when we say that. The man says and you can tell by the look in his eyes that no amount of magic would be able to prove him a liar, the man was good at wording the truth to his own whim. Perhaps it was to dangerous to let them live after all. However as you mentioned I need to take care of Brook's body, and well it is kind of hard to do with my hands tied up and no fire. The Y B says to you as if he expected you to untie him.

If you were truly sorry you wouldn't have to keep on saying it. And from what I saw that dead one over there sure wasn't sorry, bloodthirsty beast she was. Y B says spitting in the direction of Tora's body. So what will you do now? Take off to the old farmhouse, its said to be haunted so no one goes near it. You know the dead bodies and all. Or will you go to town with our belongings and try to sell them back to us? Its a small town after all, everyone knows each other. Y B says trying to see what you would do.

And so you are left with two options, only one would lead to a true lead, while the other may be another ghost tail.

[Sliver]

Nathan shrugs, unmoved. "As I said, it is up to you. It is not hard to say the truth without saying it entirely, making events seem as they were not. But you would know that you are omitting facts. I am somewhat curious though, as why you would speak in such a way. Are you hoping that I would prove you right and simply kill you out of convenience? As for her... I cannot speak, or apologize, for others, Y B." He turns to Lauriel. "He poses no threat without a weapon. With the logs you cut down for Jonathan, Y B should have enough to set up a pyre without the need for an axe... How about you untie him and let him get to it? If he proves to be a dishonorable man who would leave his companion alone and the body of Brook lying about, then... Well, I'm sure you would have ample opportunity to help him answer for his choices to whomever the Silver Knights answer to in the realms beyond. After we leave, well..." Nathan shrugs again.

Unless there is something important going to follow this, Nathan is ready to leave to the farm.

[Archmage1]

Lauriel, still listening to the exchange, shrugs.
"I don't think he's much of a threat with a weapon, and there should be enough dead wood about for him to burn the fallen, if that's his desire."
She heads over to him, and swiftly retrieves her rope, before backing away.
"Now, what he does is up to him."

[dantiesilva]

With your minds made up, Lauriel unties Y B and you all watch him rub his wrists before getting up. So where is the wood for me to make a proper pyre? he asks. Once you have given him the directions to the pile he moves off, not bothering to say anything else.

With all matters settled at Johnathan's farm for the moment you all begin the 2 hour trek east threw the woods to where the Aufein family farm is said to be. After an hour you come out on a clearing and can all see a young woman trying to fight off two bloobs of goo, that are humanoid in shape. Get away from me. The woman says as she seems to withdraw away from the creatures who do not seem to follow her past a sign post.


Perception check to see what the sign post says.

Also anyone makes a goo monster comment I will throw a book at them, can't get a picture of a lemure to work in the map program....

Map (http://pyromancers.com/media/view/main.swf?round_id=99978)

Lauriel
Girl
Dolcetto
Nathan
Enemies

[dantiesilva]

Lauriel as you come upon the scene of a young woman dressed in rags being attacked by some manner of creature you have never seen before, you notice as they stop after the woman has passed a certain distance and return to blocking the two roads. Looking at the woman it is clear by her filthy rags that she didn't summon these beings here, so perhaps they were native to this world, though who would make such a hideous creature made of some sort of goo that seems to keep melting into itself, before shaping back into a humanoid form is beyond you. Why won't those Lemure's allow me near the sign? Its not like this place is unholy or anything... The woman says as she turns around and sees Nathan and Dolcellto standing a few feet behind her. Sorry I didn't know anyone else was here. You don't happen to be going to the old Aufein mansion as well are you? If so could you help me get rid of these creatures they won't let me near the sign to see what it says. The woman explains as she points to a sign post between the two creatures. IT almost looks like the site of an old campground, how long ago it is hard to tell, but it seemed a frequent stop by the indent it left in the ground.


Girl holds action to speak to the heroes

Dolcetto
Lauriel
Girl
Nathan
Enemies

[JDL]

"These are Lemure, a mindless devil that exists at the lowest end of the power spectrum in the realms below. They have the average intelligence of a slow witted cockroach and pose no serious threat to anyone that prepares for them. Nevertheless, they resist most mundane weapons and have innate resistance to the elements too. If they are here it's because someone commanded them to be here. They usually only follow orders of the greater devils, which is a most disturbing thought indeed. Destroying them would be a kindness and rid the world of a small amount of evil."

Drawing her bow, Dolcetto steps around Nathan and fires at the creature blocking the road. "If we have any trouble with these creatures, simply hide and they will return to their original position. They are too dimwitted to think tactically."

Move Action: Draw shortbow
Standard Action: 5 ft. step to U8 and ranged attack at Lemure in G8
Attack: [roll0] (-2 range increment penalty)
Damage: [roll1] (Damage reduction 5/good or silver)

[dantiesilva]

Dolcetto while your aim is true these monsters of the hells, no matter how dim witted they may be, are still able to shrug off massive amounts of damage it seems as your arrow is not even able to harm the beast which simply absorbs the arrow into its very being. However the ruse had been worth it, for now you could see the sign much more clearly, and the warning it held. However what stood out most was the deep claw marks, trying to scratch out the very words written.

Map (http://pyromancers.com/media/view/main.swf?round_id=99987)


Dolcetto
Lauriel
Girl
Nathan
Enemies

[Archmage1]

Hearing Dolcetto's explanation, Lauriel tries speaking up from her position in the brush.
"Dolcetto... if they are that mindless, we don't need to fight them. We can simply go around, out of sight. Much simpler. And safer. You also said that they are resistant to most mundane weapons. What aren't they resistant to?"

[JDL]

"If your weapon is forged of alchemical silver or bears the blessing of a good cleric, it should be able to harm these creatures. We could certainly avoid these simple minded demons, but should we? To let them remain in the world is an abomination. Left to their own devices they will act according to their evil nature, spreading death and misery in their wake. No, we should not simply pass them by Lauriel, any more than we should ignore a wounded traveler on the road. If it is within our power to do this act we should do it, if for no other reason or reward than knowing it is a good thing."

[Archmage1]

Lauriel sighs.
"Silver? I suppose you have a point. And it could be useful to test this bow."

Reaching into her quiver, Lauriel feels the feathers, gently ascertaining that she was retrieving the right arrow. As she does so, she darts across the road, taking advantage of the movement to observe her target in a bit more detail, to better decide shot placement. As she reaches the other side, her mind made up on where she wanted the arrow to go, she draws back, the tip of the arrow gleaming silver in the sunlight as she draws it back to her cheek, before releasing, the motion smooth, practiced.

[roll0] attack
[roll1] damage(Alchemical silver)

[dantiesilva]

If you think it will help I can ask Pelor to bless your weapons. the woman says to the three of you as she turns to look away from the Lemure's. However you have to let me come with you once they are gone if I help you. I have matters at the estate they are trying to protect, and can not get by without your help. And it seems you will have a hard time without mine. So shall we call it a muteral agreement for the time being? the woman asks, her red hair so much like Tora's, however unlike Tora's this womans hair flows down to her ankles. And her eyes are the color of the lough.

Lauriel back in your days of training you had been taught how some creatures skin was so hard normal arrows would not be able to cut threw their tough hide. A special kind of arrow would be needed for such a task. For weeks you spent learning how to craft these arrows made of different materials until one day you were positive you could do it with ease. Those days however where far behind you as you reached into your quiver and reached for one such arrow. Feeling the feathers until you found the right one, you knocked the arrow back in place before letting it fly. And what a sight to behold as it ran deep threw the beasts slimy hide, not being absorbed like the last one as it sticks in the creatures arm. Had it any intelligence it no doubt would have come to attack you. However if what your friend said was true it would simply wait their guarding that spot until you either crossed some invisible line, or they died.

Map (http://pyromancers.com/media/view/main.swf?round_id=100004)

[Sliver]

"We can't really forbid your travel, though I would still like to hear of those matters of yours..." Nathan says as he approaches the Pelorite, drawing his sword and waiting for her blessing.

Double move to n7, drawing the sword while moving. I'm assuming that the sign is the blue thing, but will it block a charge? If it will, then will it block from n6?

[roll0]

[dantiesilva]

You know the pelorite was standing in n7 right? Also Bless weapon is paladin spell, she meant regular bless. Also no the blue thing doesn't stop movement.


You have a point, shall we take care of these devils first though before I explain? She asks before intoning a prayer to pelor in celestial which makes all of you feel like you could do this, that nothing could stop you.

Each ally gains a +1 morale bonus on attack rolls and on saving throws against fear effects.

As the Lemures watch all of you, you can see their skin begin to harden, but none seem to move.

Total defense action
Dolcetto
Lauriel
Girl
Nathan
Enemies

[JDL]

"No matter, we may discuss the details as we work," says Dolcetto to the cleric, moving forward and firing another arrow. "This is little more than pest extermination. What is your name good lady, and how did you find yourself here?"

Move Action: Move to S8
Standard Action: Ranged attack at Lemure in G8
Attack: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]

[JDL]

Roll to confirm critical hit and bonus damage
Attack: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]

[Sliver]

"Pests or not, they're devils! Put some emotion into it!" Nathan says with a smile as he charges forward, trying to slam into one of the Lemures.

Charging Minotaur against the one at G5 - Bull Rush attempt:

[roll0] Strength check.

If I beat his opposed check: [roll1] damage (-5 due to the DR).
Will also move him as far away from me as possible. (5ft base, +5 for every 5 I beat him)

[Archmage1]

Lauriel casually repeats her antics from her last move, darting back across the road, before firing again, aiming at the same lemure she had targeted before.

[roll0]
[roll1] silver(Sorry, should be +1, not -1, so 2 more points of damage)
[roll2] skirmish

[dantiesilva]

Dolcetto it seems with this new ally here, the tides had turned in your favor as you let lose another arrow. And this time it seems like it is going to push threw the membrane, however at the last moment the arrow tip breaks against the tough hide of your enemy, before the arrow is absorbed once more into the creatures body. If these were not foul devils of the outerplanes your arrows would have no doubt slayed countless enemies down by now. You may call me sister Anderson for now, as for how I found myself here. The village had been hearing reports about troubled souls on the road and I came to investigate. That is when I found myself in the company of these two unpleasant creatures. When I tried to continue down either of these paths they got in my way and attacked. I think you know the rest of the story. Sister Anderson says to you as you watch Nathan charge one of the creatures. However in his recklessness the beast retaleats, as one of its claws sink into his side, leaving a nasty gash, but nothing he couldn't handle.

3 damage

Nathan with trying to push the creature back, and with luck forcing it into a tree or something you charge forward, hoping the momentum would give you an upper hand against this mindless creature. However it seemed that they were stronger then they looked as it not only clawed at you, leaving a small scratch in your armor, but it also forced you back. Not budging from its previous location.

Lauriel watching as Nathan charges the beast in front of him, you once more run across the field, launching another silver arrow at the Lemure you had attacked previously. However strong these creatures may have been, thanks to your arrows they seemed to be weak in comparison as your arrow carries the beast into a tree and imbeds it there. In moments you watch as the once humanoid features turn into mush, and eventually fall to the ground, everapting into the air, the enemy defeated. However there was still one more left to deal with.

Nathan with one of the creatures gone, leaving only the one before you still alive you hear the sound of feet behind you before a tingling sensation as the wound on your stomach closes. Its the least I can do to help as I have no weapons. the woman says from behind you, keeping the Lemure away from her.

Nathan gains 3hp you don't know the spell without spellcraft

Nathan however well of a healer this woman may have been is cut short as the Lemure once more claws into your side leaving a much deeper gash then the last time as you slowly begin to bleed out as a burning sensation comes from the wound.

5 damage

Map (http://pyromancers.com/media/view/main.swf?round_id=100064)


Dolcetto
Lauriel
Nathan
Girl
Enemies

[Sliver]

Nathan lets the pain of the wound become the focus of his mind, helping him concentrate as he focus on his next swing.

PA 1 for 2, Crusader Strike. Getting +1 from Furious Counterstrike to negate the PA penalty.

[roll0]
[roll1]
[roll2] healing

Maneuvers for next round: [roll3][roll4][roll5]

[Archmage1]

Lauriel casually repeats her antics from her last move, darting back across the road, before firing again, aiming at the remaining Lemure.

[roll0](-4 penalty for firing into melee applied)
[roll1] silver(Sorry, should be +1, not -1, so 2 more points of damage)
[roll2] skirmish

[JDL]

"Perhaps I could be more emotional, but honestly I feel pity for these poor creatures. They were quite possibly once intelligent mortals like you or I, but they sold their souls and the price is what you see before you. At this stage it's a mercy to end their existence."

So saying, Dolcetto readies another arrow and takes aim, firing at the last remaining Lemure.

Standard Action: 5 ft. step to S8 and ranged attack at Lemure

[roll0] (-4 into melee applied)
[roll1]

[dantiesilva]

Nathan normally pain makes you think clearly, put all things into perspective, and focus your powers. However unlike normal something seems to be troubling your mind still as your blade wavers of course, being brushed aside easily by the Lemure before you. However the next thing you know two arrows go flying past you into the devil, and both stick inside the mass as neither one seems to harm it being asorbed once more into its mass, one could only wounder how many people fell to this creature for trying the exact same tactics.

Please do not resist, I am going to heal you again. the woman says from besides you as you can feel your wounds close, though not fully as scabs begin to form, thankfully the blood has stopped coming out though.

3 damage

The Lemure looks at you once more as its claws try and rip you to shreds, the woman had no weapon and as such was no threat in its eyes at the moment. And a nasty strike it was as its claws go to rip out your throat, only for you to pull back at the last second surviving the attack that would have surely ended your life.

4 damage (good thing that crit failed to be confirmed...)

Map (http://pyromancers.com/media/view/main.swf?round_id=100096)


Dolcetto
Lauriel
Nathan
Girl
Enemies

[Archmage1]

Lauriel casually repeats her antics from her last move, darting back across the road, before firing again, aiming at the remaining Lemure.

[roll0](-4 penalty for firing into melee applied)
[roll1] silver
[roll2] skirmish

[JDL]

"Nathan, there is no glory in falling to this creature pointlessly. If you are wounded, withdraw and we will finish it off from range," says Dolcetto, her voice tinged with concern at the near fatal blow the monster delivered to Nathan.

Standard Action: Ranged attack vs. Lemure

Attack: [roll0] (-4 into melee applied)
Damage: [roll1]

[Sliver]

Nathan laughs. "I had training sessions more dangerous than that!" Nathan says as he swings once more.

Initiating Stone Bones, using Stone Power for -1 attack, +2 temp hp (they will soak up some of the damage coming from my temp damage pool)

[roll0]
[roll1]
Gaining DR 5/Adamantine if hit.

At 9/13 currently, so really no need to worry guys :smallcool:.

[roll2]

[dantiesilva]

Dolcetto and Lauriel both let their arrows fly once more from their bows, hoping to aid their ally in combat, however for all the skills they seemed to have earlier, neither could seem to harm the lowest of devils before them. Perhaps your friends are right sir, I won't be able to be of much more help soon as I am almost out of spells. Sister Rosalind says to Nathan who only seems to laugh at the worry on everyone's face. It was time to show them all your true power, and so you unleash the most powerful attack you have so far this day, and finally you can feel the gloob like skin underneath your sword as it tries to repel the blade. However it is of no use as your blade cuts into the monster, leaving a deep gash. Angered by being harmed the Lemure stirkes out once more at you, however taking one from its books you make your own skin as hard as Adamantine and not a single of its claws so much as leave a paper cut on you. I guess I was mistaken, perhaps we can vanquish them.

As she has no weapon and no one needs healing she will take a total defense action
As only Archi moved and on this turn he will be moving back I see no point in changing the map

PC's may go

[Sliver]

"Save your spells, Sister Anderson, this is nothing!" Nathan declares, swinging once more.

Crusader's Strike:
[roll0]
[roll1]
[roll2] healing if hit

[Archmage1]

Lauriel casually repeats her antics from her last move, darting back across the road, before firing again, aiming at the remaining Lemure.

[roll0](-4 penalty for firing into melee applied)
[roll1] silver
[roll2] skirmish
(Yes, I've been copy pasting the same message this combat.)

[JDL]

Dolcetto smiles as Nathan seems to revive himself through the sheer joy of combat. "Apologies my friend, I obviously underestimated your martial skills. I am a poor judge of the dangers of close combat. Truthfully I avoid it wherever possible." So saying, she draws and lets loose another shot from her bow.

Standard Action: Ranged attack vs. Lemure

Attack: [roll0] (-4 into melee applied)
Damage: [roll1]

[dantiesilva]

As you wish sir Knight. Sister Anderson says as she watches what you do next. To say she is surprised is an understatement as you prove testament to your training under the crudgel as you get divine retribution upon the devil who had harmed you so many times, slicing clean threw it before it bubbled away into a pile of goo and vanished into the afternoon air. All the while all your wounds have healed. I was not aware I would be meeting such powerful allies when I set out on my quest. Sister Anderson says as she turns to look at the group as a whole. Shall we talk while we try and collect whatever arrows are still usable? she asks everyone as she moves over to the two areas the Lemures had died in and begins searching for the lost arrows. Let me reintroduce myself, my name is Rosalind Anderson, sister Rosalind Anderson of Pelor. And while I did come because of souls I had head about on the road, it was more in a vision then being told by any real person. The woman says looking back to all of you to see if you all thought she was crazy. I saw three figures facing off against a couple of devils, I couldn't tell if they were imps or what do to the distance, and it being a dream. However I knew the crossing so I came here. When I arrived there was no one but those two here, and thinking you had already passed I tried to get by them to catch up with all of you. It seems in my haste I didn't think that perhaps I was early, and that the morning star had shown me this vision so I could meet you here and aid you. She says with a warm smile. If I may, what are your names young heroes?

[JDL]

"It is well that you met us as you did sister Anderson," says Dolcetto warmly, helping the cleric in her search. "You should be aware that the folk of this area respond with hostility to those who practice magic, even that channelled through the will of the gods. I myself was threatened with death earlier today for my arcane skills. It was only through the intervention of my newly met companions that I was spared this unfortunate outcome. I shudder to think what would have befallen yourself, alone and unarmed as you are, if those same faithless fiends had set upon you. My name is Dolcetto Aglianico, a travelling wizard recently from the Lady's College in Silverymoon. My stalwart friend is Sir Nathan Mandax, and the most deadly and beautiful lady you see there is Lauriel Treeborn. We appear to be travelling in the same direction, and it seems that you have been given a divine mission to accompany us. For myself, I think it wise not to work against the will of the divines, and would welcome your companionship on the road ahead."

[Sliver]

"Injuries tend to look far worse than they are to those who aren't used to them." Nathan says as he wipes his sword clean of Lemure. "When I told you that I'd divert blows from you to my own body, it was no empty boast, Lady Aglianico. I've been trained to shrug off wounds and use the pain to focus. Do you know how one is trained to do that? By being beaten to near death, repeatedly. It sounds harsh, because it is, but it is also necessary. One cannot flinch from an incoming blow because he fears pain, and allowing the wounds to cloud your mind is as good as a death sentence. You may see this armor I wear as protection, but it is also a promise. It makes retreat almost impossible, meaning that I will stay and fight, see things through... One way or another. Thankfully, I've been trained to be quite hard to be taken out." Nathan smiles.

He turns to Sister Anderson and nods as Dolcetto introduces him. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Sister Anderson, and I appreciate your healing during the battle. However, you should not be so hasty in the delivery, as I can deal with minor injuries during battle and they only help me focus better." Nathan explains. "But I will still trust your judgement, as my own healing ability is rather limited and not too reliable." He says with a smile.

[JDL]

Dolcetto spends a few minutes looking for remaining arrows, and after an unfruitful search turns to the horse and retrieves a handful of arrows to reload her quiver instead. Regretfully she looks down at the remains of the Lemures, debating whether or not they warrant burial. Deciding finally to allow the scavengers to pick what sustenance they can from the remains, she addresses the rest of the party.

"If there's nothing further that must be done, we should proceed to the Aufein property. Keep your senses sharp and your hand at your weapon, for I doubt these fiends are the only line of defense against intruders, merely the first of such."

Dolcetto takes 20 on Perception to determine if there's any other loot around. She will keep her shortbow drawn for the remainder of the trip and take 10 on Perception for 21 to spot ambushes, hazards or traps on the road.

[Sliver]

"Yes, ma'am!" Nathan salutes Dolcetto, before beginning to march ahead of the others.

[Archmage1]

Lauriel spends a few minutes looking for her arrows, but she is soon disappointed, as she is unable to find any trace of her missing arrows.
That is unfortunate. I'm out of silver, which makes making more of those difficult. With luck, we won't run into too many more demons that we apparently must fight.
After she finishes, she head out, into the open, and greets sister Rosalind.
"As Dolcetto said, I am Lauriel, a scout. I have not met many of your order, Sister Rosalind. Those I have met have been good, so I believe meeting you is a good thing. Now, we are at a fork, and we don't know which way to go. Perhaps there has been some more recent traffic here."

Lauriel looks over the ground, trying to judge what has moved through here recently.

[dantiesilva]

Dolcetto helping the young sister Anderson in her search proves to be a task as her hair seems to keep covering whatever area she is searching like a red waterfall. You go on to explain to her the dangers of the area which only gets a curious look out of her.Ms. Dolcetto I can assure you the silver knights are no where near as bad as you are describing them. I have lived in this area all my life and even was trained with some of them. While they do not allow unlicensed wielders of magic to wander around, they do not go to kill anyone that shows a hint of the gift. The woman says kindly to you, as if she were speaking to a child. You see, long ago children kept on going missing, and demons were spotted from time to time around the area. At the time the silver knights never existed. A group of individuals set out together and began tracking down the children, two of these individuals were magic wielders. What they came upon was a demonic cult that was trying to open a portal connecting our world to the abyss. Suffice to say they succeeded in stopping these cultists before the portal was complete. These four individuals became the founders of the Silver knights. Darek Von'Cleft and his friend and my late grandfather Alexander Anderson set out a list of rules for all who wielded magic to follow, this way such an event could never happen again. As such the silver knights soon grew until almost the entire kingdom had at least a few in each town. And each chapter would seek out all those who would summon the unholy to this world and vanquish them, taking all of their belongings and locking them up so that they could never be used. Sister Anderson explains kindly as she hands you an arrow that remained unbroken. Ms. Dolcetto did you happen to perform any kind of magic in front of these individuals you speak about? And if so did you present the proper forums showing that you were in fact a licensed mage? If not I can see why they attacked, as anyone who has nothing to hide would readily accept such terms. As for them harming me, as I explained I grew up here and know almost all of them by name. Even the stragglers that only come in once a season or so to resupply before going back to whatever fort they are stationed at.

I will try to keep that in mind next time Sir Nathan, here I thought I was helping, however I may have been impairing you. I hope you can forgive me for my nievite. Rosalind says as she stands up and smiles warmly at you. Thankfully those were some of my weakest spells so I still have two more available if they are needed to help all of you along our journey. I will try to only use them when you look like you are about to fall in combat next time. Sister Rosalind Anderson says kindly before looking to the last member of the group who seemed to be still searching for her arrows.

Lauriel as you look at the two paths you notice a few sets of footprints going down each path, however these are no doubt from the creatures you had just slain, all else seems to be the same on both paths. Thats when your sharp senses begin to hear the soft sound of rain drops falling to the ground behind you, it would not be long now before the rain caught up to you. I am honestly not sure myself which way to go. I did not see this in my vision, then again there were four of you in the vision not three. Sister Anderson explains as Dollecto and Nathan begin heading down the right path. Ms. Lauriel I do not think it wise to split up, shall we follow them? she asks waiting to see if you join the others walking down the right path.

Keep in mind you do not have to take the same path as them, however you would be going alone. Once everyone posts a reply I will post what happens next

[Archmage1]

Lauriel, not seeing any real difference between the two paths, shrugs.
"There are signs that the lemures have been down both paths, so it matters little which way we go. Right is as good as any."
Moving swiftly, she catches up to the others, before she resumes hiding in the bushes alongside the party.

[dantiesilva]

Lauriel seeing no difference in paths you quickly run to catch up to the others, returning to the underbush once they become within view. And for the next hour you all walk in the rain that is steadily coming down. Your feet slowly begining to sink in the mud, however it looks like their is an end in sight as you all see a large clearing. Excited to finally be someplace other then the same plain muddy dirt road you have been traveling, you rush foward and almost fall over yourselves as you are right back where you started an hour ago at the fork in the road. What was going on, none of you had taken a single turn all this time? Is this not where we defeated those Lemure's? Rosalind says before you watch one come forward from the right hand path, making your tracks seem to vanish as it does so.

So many questions, how did you end up back where you began, where had that Lemure come from for you had seen none along the road, and why was it erasing your tracks in the mud?

Map (http://pyromancers.com/media/view/main.swf?round_id=100248)

Use same initiative to save time as you are aware of the creature as it is coming down the road so to speak.

[JDL]

"Curious, to be sure, and possibly some form of enchantment or illusion," says Dolcetto, lining her bow up and taking a shot at the Lemure.

Spellcraft to identify a spell that’s already in place and in effect.
[roll0]
Familiar Aid on Spellcraft:
[roll1]

Reactive Perception check vs. hidden or invisible creatures.
[roll2]

Move Action: Move 10 ft. to Q8
Standard Action: Ranged attack vs. Lemure
Attack: [roll3]
Damage: [roll4]

[JDL]

Rolling to confirm critical hit:
Attack: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]

[dantiesilva]

JDL bows are x3 crit, I rolled at home for you and you did a total of 6 damage to the creature after DR

Dolcetto sensing some form of magic afoot in this matter you try to perceive what could have made you come back to where you return, alas the idea escapes your mind, something well beyond your abilities though that is for sure. Thankfully it seems that their is only one of these fiends this time, as it finishes erasing the tracks the four of you had made on the right hand path. At least that explained how Lauriel could see no difference earlier, however it still left the mystery of where this new Lemure had come from. Not wanting to have a repeat of the last battle, fearing the others would think you had made up the story about the wolf, you once more launch an arrow at the devil, however unlike before you aim low at its gut, and are more then thrilled as the creature is pushed back a foot by the power of your arrow. If you kept this up their was no doubt this Lemure would be dead before the others had a chance to figure out what was going on.

Map (http://pyromancers.com/media/view/main.swf?round_id=100250)

[Archmage1]

Lauriel sensing the loop was not natural, decides that dealing with enemies takes priority over figuring it out. So, she starts repeats her antics from the last combat, darting back across the road, before firing again, aiming at the Lemure.

[roll0]
[roll1] silver
[roll2] skirmish

[Archmage1]

Seeing the Lemure start to dissolve, Lauriel heads over to the body, retrieving the arrowhead. Sadly, the arrow itself had shattered.
"Well. We appear to be in a loop, which is unfortunate. Perhaps this sign..."
She looks over the sign once more.

[dantiesilva]

Nathan it seems these two women you are traveling with learned from their last encounter with the devil's known as Lemure's as both Dolcetto and Lauriel fire one shot after another, pinning the devil to the tree where it once more turns into a puddle of goo, before vanishing into thin air like all outsiders you can only assume would when defeated. With the minor threat taken care of that still leaves the mystery of the fork in the road unsolved. I can not believe the skill of those I travel with...to slay a devil so quickly, and not for the first time today, if we ever make it back to town you should all think about joining the order of the silver knights. They could use people with your skills in hunting devils and demons. Sister Rosalind says, to all of you, as her skin seems to glow with joy at what you had all just accomplished in a matter of seconds.

Lauriel not wanting to be caught in this loop once more you return to the sign which as before has the words clawed threw them. However this couldn't be right the sign seemed to be different. Looking over it three times and there is no doubt about it, what the sign says is different then the first time.


The time is coming fast
When the right hand will pass
leaving left without a doubt
the only other route.

[Sliver]

Nathan nods to the ladies as they quickly dispatch of the Lemure, as he himself approaches the sign and examines it, running his hand over the writing.

[roll0]
[roll1]

[Archmage1]

As she finishes retrieving her arrow, Lauriel shakes her head at Rosalind's offer.
"I'm sure they could, but I am already a member of another group. Now, I think we can try left this time, and see where that takes us."

[JDL]

"Very well then," says Dolcetto, resuming her march with the group. "There is definitely magic at work, though without time to prepare spells to detect it I am unable to discern its nature. If we rest later, I will prepare the necessary spells and try again."

Dolcetto walks down the left path following Lauriel, bow readied in case more fiends appear.

[Sliver]

If Nathan's examination of the sign reveals nothing, Nathan leaves it alone, moving to the front again and taking the left path. "I guess that's the only path we have left for now." He says with a smile.

[Sliver]

Nathan stops suddenly, looking concerned. "This doesn't look right... This path is much more traveled than the other one. It didn't look that way before..." He says, noticing that the others didn't see it. "There might be some sort of illusion about."

[Archmage1]

Lauriel, looking around, spots a path, hidden behind the sign.
"Perhaps, but there is a path behind the sign. Why don't we go that way, and get to the bottom of this?"

[Sliver]

"I don't see it..." Nathan notes. "Well, that is probably the point of the illusion." He says and walks to the indicated path.

Will save, if needed: [roll0] I think I get a +4 to that save from Lauriel indicating it's an illusion.

[dantiesilva]

Had it not been for you walking up to the sign there would have been no will save. Good job everyone you have solved the riddle of the two paths. everyone gains 300exp as you got the riddle before you walked the path. I believe thats a level up for most people.

Nathan something doesn't seem right as you begin walking after Dolcetto down the left hand path, the road seemed different, more traveled. This had to be some kind of illusion, but to cover such a large area. Thats when you and Dolcetto hear Lauriel call to the two of you that she had found a path behind the sign, could it be that an illusion was covering this entire area? Walking over both Dolcetto and Nathan are easily able to see the new path as Lauriel guides them onto it. Looking down this short path you can tell that something horrible once happened hear as not a single tree grows within five feet of the road you are on, all of them seem dead and blighted.

For the next hour the four of you walk, the entire time the woods are deathly quite besides your voices talking to one another. I wounder what happened hear to cause the trees to not even grow here. Its almost like the paintings you see of great wars, how the patch of land that the blood soaked into will not bear any kind of life. Rosalind says as she walks closer to Nathan. With the rain coming down upon you it is no wounder your moods are not that great as you come to two large statues facing each other resembling two knights facing off against one another. And on both sides of them are large wooden walls, far to high to climb.


Those who wish to see the past
Must first bear the mark of the last
come forth invaders and beware'
the devil is everywhere.

You all watch as words seem to fly into the sky written in elven, could this be another riddle?

[Archmage1]

Walking along the path, Lauriel is mostly silent, although she looks quite angry.
It's so like humans, to destroy the very land they rely on for survival. And then they care nothing for repairing the damage. And in such an area, with no wildlife... Idiots. No tactical advantage is worth this kind of strategic damage.

Hearing Rosalind's words, and seeing the flying words in the sky, Lauriel responds, her words losing some of their lyrical tone to the rain.
"It would seem that there is an effect that can show us the past here, provided we bear the mark of the last."
Experimenting, Lauriel moves over, and touches one of the statues.

[dantiesilva]

Lauriel as you walk over to the two statues to experiment you place your hand on one of the statues and watch as both of their eyes alight with an inner glow. In an instant a wall appears between the two, and while it is clearly seen your hand passes threw it easily to the other side. No harm seems to happen to you from the golden glowing wall.

[Archmage1]

Interesting
She walks across and touches the other statue after determining that the golden wall is passable.

[Sliver]

Nathan frowns at the destruction. Did the fire cause that the silver knights lit all those years ago cause that? He thought. It was just... Wrong.

As the wall of light appears between the two statues, Nathan pauses. "Didn't Elizabeth say that the two of you bear her master's mark?" He said, wondering. If it were the same man, could he be related to Ryl? Could Elizabeth and Jonathan be?

That same man, he was probably the one who teleported Nathan at the beginning of that fight... Would it be enough, to be touched by his magic? Elizabeth didn't refer to him, but would this effect separate him and Sister Anderson from Dolcetto and Lauriel?

Nathan mused to himself as he carefully approached the barrier, his sword drawn. First, he poked at it with his sword...

[JDL]

"Fascinating," says Dolcetto, her eyes marvelling at the display of power. "Such a thing would take weeks to construct, not to mention the cost! In the hands of the right buyer this would be very valuable indeed..."

Coming back to herself with a shake of her head, she attempts to discern the type of enchantment used in the device.

Dolcetto uses Spellcraft to identify a spell that’s already in place and in effect, or understand a strange or unique magical effect.
[roll0]
Familiar Aid on Spellcraft
[roll1]

"If we intend to pass across the threshold of the portal before us we should be in contact at the time we do so," says Dolcetto to the others, reaching out her hands to them. "Several teleportation spells require you to be in physical contact with the other persons travelling with you, and I'd hate for us to be separated. I'm unsure of the magic being used here, but I would prefer not to take chances. After all, you know how cautious I always am," she says with a wry smile.

[Sliver]

"So it was caution the train which you had displayed when you left us in favor of wolf hunting?" Nathan teases, but takes the hand offered and reaches out for Sister Anderson. "So, why do you think this is a portal and not some sort of selective barrier?" Nathan inquires.

[JDL]

"Primarily because it appears that the effect is limited to a proximity emanation between twin foci. The thaumatic energies are being channelled into a singularity with a distinct point of reference in relation to the material plane. An abjurative barrier would require a far larger energy expenditure encompassing a defined radius forming a repulsive field with modulating flow harmonics. Additionally the trigger parameters appear linearly correlated with non-null weave signatures. I'm theorizing it's a formation of a transitive conjuration exchange conversion coupled with a chronological displacement corollary given our previous evidence, though I could be completely off the mark and it's actually an operationally transmutative morphic flux field," says Dolcetto, sweetly smiling at Nathan.

[Sliver]

Nathan nods. He understood the gist of the nonsense Dolcetto said, but he knew she was speaking in such a way on purpose, so he simply smiled. "Perhaps a barrier is unlikely, but... Hmmm... It could be a selective portal that would only allow those who are marked to pass through, given that Lauriel wasn't affected. Then the effect would be mainly to delay, similar to the previous trap... Could this be a detection effect, discerning whether the passer is marked or not? Maybe have the knights attack if one attempts to pass without being marked?"

[JDL]

"Good question. I can possibly attempt to study the field further with a few cantrips, but I'll need at least 15 minutes to prepare. Provided we are willing to wait that long it could provide more information on the effect than we currently have available. If you'll allow me a moment, I'll make the necessary preparations."

Taking a seat, Dolcetto retrieves her spellbook and starts paging through the arcane writings. After 15 minutes of study, she closes the book with a snap.

Preparing the extra empty level 0 spell slot I gained from my level with Detect Magic. Preparing the extra empty level 1 spell slot I gained with Enlarge Person.

"I think this should help clear up a few questions," says Dolcetto, casting a spell as she stands 10 feet in front of the two statues. Her eyes take on a faint blue glow as she studies the statues and golden wall for two minutes carefully.

Dolcetto takes 20 on her Spellcraft check over the 2 minute duration of the Detect Magic spell to determine the school of magic involved in the aura.

[dantiesilva]

Lauriel as you walk across the area between the two statues the area your hand seems to be able to pass threw moves with you until you get to the second statue and lay your hand upon it. When you do so the wall seems to vanish from sight as if it never existed.

Nathan as your mind wounder about the identity of the man who had teleported you and seemed to have saved Elizabeth you wounder if they were perhaps members of Ryl's bloodline. After all Elizabeth had said something about Dolcetto and Lauriel having her masters mark, could this in fact make them able to pass the barrier while refusing to allow you and Rosalind? Curious, you walk over to where the wall would have been and tap the area with your sword, immediately a jolt of electricity courses threw your blade and into your hand, stinging your body.

3 damage

Dolcetto as you examine the effects of the two statues you try to deduce what their purpose could be, it clearly in your eyes seemed to have to deal with conjuration magic, however the jolt of electricity was clearly of the evocation school, and that golden aura if you had to guess from the remnants still showing were from the abjuration schools. Whatever it was though you could only sense faint magical workings, and even they were fading as time passed.

[Archmage1]

"Interesting. It follows me as I move. And touching the second statue causes it to vanish. But does touching the first one cause it to reappear?"
She heads back over to the first one, touching it once more.

[Sliver]

Nathan jumps back for a moment, frowning. "Ugh... Maybe..." He holds out his sword again, waiting. When and if the barrier appears again after Lauriel's touch, Nathan speaks again. "Can you try grabbing my sword to see if it strikes at me again?" He asks. If he isn't shocked once more, he will attempt to pass at the same spot that Lauriel is at, hoping that he can use the opening she creates to pass through.

[dantiesilva]

Lauriel noticing how the wall seems to part wherever your body keeps in contact with it you are caught a bit unaware as you touch the second statue and the veil like wall seems to vanish. Wondering if you touched the first statue again if it would appear once more you walk back to the first statue and place your hand upon it, and once more as expected the veil becomes visible once more.

Nathan seeing how the wall seemed to make a small opening wherever Lauriel went you ask her to hold onto your blade as you try to pass threw once more. At first it seems to work as your sword begins to pass threw the barrier, however as it reaches your hand the sensation returns of electricity coursing threw your body, before your hand and the sword are both expelled from the ward. However the shock did seem weaker this time meaning either having Lauriel as a wall between the two seemed to have an effect, or that the more people who participated weakened the power of it. Are you okay Nathan? Perhaps we shouldn't try passing, whoever placed this here clearly didn't want anyone intruding. And I would hate to see anyone hurt because I wanted to see what happened here. Sister Rosalind Anderson says looking concerned at the electrical burns on you.

2 electricity damage

[Archmage1]

Continuing to experiment, she tries touching the same statue again.

[dantiesilva]

Touching the same statue seems to make the veil vanish once more, meaning if you would have to guess it doesn't matter which one you touch. Once makes whatever keeps harming Nathan advisable. While the other makes it vanish.

[JDL]

Dolcetto steps forward, motioning to Lauriel and Nathan.

"Perhaps there is more to be discerned from examining the statues themselves," she says, moving close to search the two monoliths carefully.

Spending 2 minutes on each statue to take 20 on Perception for 31 to find any hidden details.

If her search proves fruitless, she will touch one of the statues to activate the glow, then extend her hands towards Lauriel and Nathan and once they are in contact with each other attempt to step through.

[dantiesilva]

Dolcetto trying to approach this from a different angle then Nathan or Lauriel you spend the next 4 minutes trying to see if you can notice anything out of the ordinary about these statues that was not visible earlier, or threw magic. However no matter how hard you try nothing new comes to light. Giving up on the statues themselves you walk over to the statue Nathan, Lauriel, and sister Rosalind are standing at and extend your hand explaining to Nathan and Lauriel that you have an idea. Seeing no harm in trying something else, you walk forward with Nathan to your left, and Lauriel to your right. In no time both you and Lauriel have made it threw the portal to the other side which reveals a beautiful farm, a massive contradiction to the blight you had just spent the last hour walking threw. Could this be the past it was referring to? But wait where was Nathan, thats when you turn around and see him on the other side of the wall smoke rising from his body as he looks slightly chard.

3 points electrify damage.

Nathan as you take a gamble once more you hold onto Dolcetto's hand as you all walk foward, however unlike before you are immediately sent back, the feeling of lighting striking you going threw your hand. Yet the other two seemed to make it threw fine. Sir Nathan, while I was watching the two of them walk threw I noticed a small gap seem to form between them, as if their bodies were blocking whatever spell was in effect. Rosalind says as she looks at your wounds, If you get any more hurt I am going to have to heal you again so be careful. Rosalind says kindly.

@Everyone as both sides begin to talk about random things you all watch as a fat devil with horns looks from around a corner. Looks like its feeding time boys. The master let us in some food, that or they broke his spell, either way lets go. he called out and you all can see 2 lemure devils appear on both sides of the fields looking up with him smiling infront of a farmhouse, a wicked looking fork in his hand. Was he really going to try and eat you all with that thing, sure it was big enough but...

I have not placed a map up yet as Dolcetto and Lauriel can walk back threw the portal to the other side.

[JDL]

Dolcetto quickly steps back through the portal to stand beside Nathan.

"It seems we're on the menu for a trio of fiends on the other side of that portal. If Lady Rosalind is correct and our bodies block the effect of the spell, we would do well to place you between us as we enter. Perhaps it is our elven blood which allows us to pass the barrier without harm, though my own heritage is of debatable origin and this might not be true. Do you wish to attempt the breach again using this method immediately or shall we rest and regain our strength first? We can attempt to cross at first light tomorrow if so. I know I would appreciate the opportunity to prepare my spells, but I will leave the final decision with you. Should we attempt to cross, I suggest I employ the same spell I previously used to enlarge you and grant you greater battle prowess."

[Sliver]

Nathan shakes his head. "We can't rest here. With the rain and these devils, they won't allow us enough quiet for you to rest and the concentration to regain the spells. There were also devils outside that we don't know whether they'll return or not, so we are likely to get attacked... No, try to block the barrier from both sides for me and Sister Anderson to pass. This electric field is nothing." He says, ready to charge.

[roll0]

[roll1][roll2][roll3]

[Archmage1]

Lauriel goes along with the plan, drawing her bow, and making sure she has a silver arrow lined up.
"I assume these are affected by silver as well?"

[JDL]

Taking 10 on Knowledge (The Planes) for 18 to identify the fat horned devil that spoke.

"I'm confident they will take out the Lemures just as well as they did last time," says Dolcetto confidently, avoiding mentioning the other creature she saw until she's sure it is also susceptible to alchemical silvered weaponry. She stands behind Nathan and motions Lauriel to stand in front of him to allow him to cross the barrier, and once they are in place she will step across holding his hand.

[Archmage1]

Lauriel nods.
"So you don't know what the other one is either."
Seeing Dolcetto's antics, Lauriel shakes her head.
"No, Dolcetto, not like that. The portal forms between us, so he needs to be besides us, not in front of and behind us. Rosalind too should be there."
She stands to Rosalind's side, clearly expecting Nathan and Dolcetto to take up the right positions, before crossing through.

[JDL]

"The one with the fork is a Herlekin. They are brutes and a rather lowly rank within the devil legion, but far more intelligent than the Lemures. They lack the resistance to weapons that their brainless brethren possess however, so ordinary arrows and weapons should suffice to penetrate this creature's hide. They also enjoy food, wine and fornication; if we fail to defeat the infernal creature you may be sure it will probably ravish your body before feeding upon your meat. They're known to charge with their horns or fly into a rage when feeding on the lifeblood of a fallen foe, so avoid giving it the chance to charge you in combat. This one is doubtless controlling the Lemures, so defeating it is essential to preventing them acting tactically. Without its leadership they should be simple to dispatch."

[Archmage1]

Lauriel smiles slightly at Dolcetto's description.
"I'm confident that I'll be able to avoid such a fate. If I were so foolish as to allow something like that to get close to me... I would deserve it, before I died. Of course, we are walking into an ambush, which makes things interesting. I'll try to get clear, before I start shooting them."

[dantiesilva]

All of you gain a +2 deflection bonus while inside the farm

Dolcetto as Nathan once more fails to pass through the barrier you begin to wounder if perhaps it had something to do with your elven blood, then again you were not like normal elves of this world. The magic of the fey still coursed threw your blood as a constant reminder that while you may have been born here, you were still something else. Not even really mortal, however their were still three hungry devils to take care of, though you still had the option to sleep before going inside. After all it didn't seem like they could pass threw the portal. However Nathan is quick to turn down the idea, reminding all that you had been fighting Lemures outside the gate as well. Then again none of you had seen a single soul up until this point since the illusion, however why take the chance. If we are going to proceed let me heal your wounds Sir Nathan. Rosalind says as her hands begin to glow over your wounds before a soothing sensation goes over you. There we go good as new, for the most part at least.

Nathan heals 7hp

With your ideas set into motion Dolcetto and Lauriel step to the opposite sides of each other allowing Rosalind and Nathan to cross the barrier before entering inside themselves. Immediately the area you are standing in looks different, the farm house looks much older, and their seems to be no walls all around you as you watch a little boy and his father tilling the land.

Will DC 17 to see threw the illusion.

Map (http://pyromancers.com/media/view/main.swf?round_id=100833)


Dolcetto
Lauriel
Lemure 's
Sister Rosalind
Herlekin
Nathan

[JDL]

"Is this the same place?" says Dolcetto, staring at the scene before her. Dolcetto wonders if the portal has taken them to a different location this time. However, looking at her allies and the intensity they show convinces her she may be wrong. As a precaution, she begins casting her spell at Nathan to enlarge his form. "Nathan, remain within 30 feet please, I am casting my spell of enlargement upon you as we agreed."

Full round action: Cast Enlarge Person at Nathan

[Archmage1]

Lauriel calls out to the others, even as she moves to P16(Prepared to dodge the lemure)
"It's an illusion! Those demons are still here!"
She also launches an arrow towards the Herlekin, the shaft moving swiftly through the air.

[roll0] attack
[roll1] damage
[roll2] skirmish

[dantiesilva]

As the strange new scene unfolds around you all to Dolcetto all the devil's seem to vanish from sight. Instead you all watched as four knights passed by you all in silver armor and began walking to the farmer and his son, drawing their swords as they went. However the boy ran to the farmhouse and the old man began to mutter some words in draconic before a ball of flames exploded infront of the knights who all dove in different directions to avoid the blast.

Meanwhile Lauriel's arrow went flying into the nether seeming to vanish after a distance in Dolcetto's eyes as all the others saw the Herlekin pierced by the arrow. Quickly get one with the bow. He screams out as he rips the arrow out of his body and throws it to the ground. Immediately the two Lemures head forward trying to get to their target. The one on the left attacked Nathan, while the one on the right struck out at the archer.


Nathan A21 D4 (you get an AoO however due to being large)
Lauriel A17 D3

Sister Rosalind looks at the devil's on both sides of her and holds her action no the worst is still to come.

And so the Herlekin charged with its horns lowered trying to take out the largest target.

A16 against Nathan D24

If nathan is hit Rosalind will use lesser vigor on Nathan so he gains FH 9 for 12 rounds

And that my friends is how you build a healer

Dolcetto
Lauriel
Lemure 's
Sister Rosalind
Herlekin
Nathan

Map (http://pyromancers.com/media/view/main.swf?round_id=100904)

[Sliver]

Twisting just out of the way of the charging Herlekin, Nathan 'allows' the lemure to claw at him, letting the familiar pain flow in, focusing his mind as he swings at the devil that just charged him. His powerful swing goes wide though, only destroying the innocent air.

"Stay close to me, they'll have harder time focusing on you!" Nathan says.

Let's see... It has -2 AC from charge, I have +2 from Furious Counterstrike and winning the Duel of Wills... Alright, let's give it a roll!

Crusader's Strike, PA -2 for +4
[roll0]
[roll1]
[roll2] healing if hit

[roll3] maneuver

[Archmage1]

Moving quickly, and easily evading the attempted strike of the lemure near her, Lauriel moves 20 feet away, before she fires another arrow into the Herlekin's back.


[roll0] acrobatics
[roll1] attack(Stupid melee penalty...]
[roll2] damage
[roll3] skirmish

[JDL]

Will save vs. Illusion
[roll0]

[JDL]

Nathan seems to be fighting something, but Dolcetto can't see where the enemy is hiding. Instead, she decides to increase her chances of breaking whatever spell is clouding her judgement.

Standard Action: Cast Resistance on self

[dantiesilva]

Nathan while your blows may be powerful the finesse behind them seems to be lacking as your blade is unable to connect with the Herlekin who only seems to laugh. And here I thought you would be a problem. Looks like the only thing you are good for is food. But don't worry I will let the others live, after I bless them that is. the wicked horned devil laughs as the lemure on the side of you swings its claws around wildly, not able to see past your frame to Lauriel running off in the opposite direction. However it seems these devils were not well known for working as a team as the lemure almost trips over the Herlekin's fork trying to attack you and fails.

Lauriel this was your chance, nothing had seen you escape, just one shot and this would be all over. Thats when the cord snaps back onto your wrist sending the arrow flying to your feet and leaving a nasty looking burn on your wrist. However no serious damage, or at least not as bad as it could have been. Turning around you watch as the Lemure who attacked you ealier continues to follow its last order and tries to attack you once more.

A16 D 6

Lady Rosalind looks between Nathan and Lauriel, waiting to see if he could handle the Herelekin on his own before she choose what to do.

Well little human time for you to become lunch. the herelekin says as he lifts his fork up at Nathan and attacks, before stepping 5ft. back.

A16 D13

Dolectto watching as your allies seem to attack the air like mad men you watch the scene unfold around you as the four knights rise up from the blast of the fireball and continue to charge the man who had cast the spell. Their are now two knights on both sides of the field, while the two in the back ready bows, the two forward leading ones seem to be charging the man who seems to be calling forth something.

Map (http://pyromancers.com/media/view/main.swf?round_id=101012)


If nathan is not hit she will move to o13 to heal Lauriel 7hp

taking an AoO from two enemies 14 damage total

Dolcetto
Lauriel
Lemure 's
Sister Rosalind
Herlekin
Nathan

[Archmage1]

Lauriel tumbles once more, moving to O16, before firing another arrow at the Herlekin, fully prepared to dodge the lemure, should it choose to continue to come after her.
[roll0] hit
[roll1] damage
[roll2] skirmish
[roll3] dc 15 tumble

[Sliver]

Nathan growls at the Herlekin, moving towards the creature. "Bless this!" He says, swinging once more.

My attack depends on whether or not you remembered that the Herlekin gets -1 to attack against me. My AC is 16, including the deflection, due to being enlarged.

If I'm hit, the -2 to attack goes to +4 temp hp to soak up some of the damage. If I'm not hit, add +4 to the damage.

5ft step towards the Herlekin, which means that besides the normal -4 penalty from Iron's Guard Glare, the Herlekin takes -4 to attacking those behind me due to soft cover.

Attacking with Vanguard Strike, giving allies +4 to attack against the Herlekin if I hit it.

[roll0] If I got hit, increase the bonus to +4
[roll1] If I'm not hit, increase the bonus to +9.

[JDL]

Will save vs. Illusion
[roll0]

[JDL]

Her mind refusing to show her the truth, Dolcetto decides to attack the apparitions in the hope they're not her allies.

Move Action: Draw shortbow
Standard Action: Ranged attack vs. closest figment
Attack: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]
(A figment's AC is equal to 10 plus its size modifier)

[JDL]

Additional will saving throw if allowed due to interacting with the illusion:
[roll0]

[Sliver]

The lemure continues to claw at Nathan, but his attack fails to get within his defenses, while the second one chases after Lauriel, failing yet again to swipe at her. Sister Rosalind stays put behind Nathan, enjoying his protection and ready to heal, as the Herlekin tries to jab his fork into the large target. His attack draws blood (13 damage) and Lady Rosalind immediately casts her healing, partially closing the wound as the devil seems pleased with himself, licking at the bloody fork.

Nathan grows tired of the arrogant devil and swings at him once more, trying to send the creature back to his place.

Initiating Stone Bones. -2 Attack for +4 temp hp, which becomes healing. With Rosalind healing 7hp, Nathan took 2 damage.

[roll0]
[roll1]

Maneuvers granted: [roll2][roll3][roll4]

Dolcetto
Lauriel
Lemure 's
Sister Rosalind
Herlekin
Nathan

[Archmage1]

Once more, Lauriel tumbles away from the Lemures, preparing to dodge the closest one as she launches another arrow at the Herlekin.(20 feet moved)

[roll0] attack
[roll1] damage
[roll2] skirmish

[dantiesilva]

Dolcetto after almost a minute of your friends fighting you begin to see a clearer picture as the image seems to become a backdrop as past and present seem to coincide. That same farmer looks like he is about to be tackled when he vanish in a puff of yellow smoke and reappears infront of the door to his home. He quickly opens it and runs inside as a wall of stone blocks the entryway to the door. Looking back to the enemies your friends had been fighting you quickly knock an arrow back and fire, however due to Sister Rosalind and Sir Nathan your arrow seems to miss its mark.

Thankfully however Lauriel is quick to take advantage of the opening you and Nathan have provided her as she once more fires at the Herlekin. Impossible, I have been blessed, how could mere mortals stop me. I will remember all of you, and mark my words, in a year and a day I will get my revenge. the devil calls out as a portal opens up underneath his feet and pulls him back into the nine hells, however that still left the two Lemures.

And they still had orders to carry out as they both try to attack however neither one seems able to land a single attack against Nathan or Lauriel's armor as their claws keep only scrapping at it and nothing more.


Dolcetto
Lauriel
Lemure 's
Sister Rosalind
Nathan

Map (http://pyromancers.com/media/view/main.swf?round_id=101065)

[Sliver]

Nathan, satisfied with Lauriel taking out the leader, directs his attack at the lemure attacking him, while shifting away to have the other one within reach as well.

Initiating Stone Bones for DR 5 if hit, followed by 5ft step towards the other Lemure so both are within my threatened area.

[roll0]
[roll1]

[roll2]

[Archmage1]

Lauriel, still threatened by the Lemure, finally gets her chance to respond. She flips back, not giving it a chance to respond, before she fires another arrow at it, the tip glinting silver in the sunlight.


Moving another 20 feet away from the Lemure. Also dodging it.
[roll0] acrobatics
[roll1] hit
[roll2] damage, silver
[roll3] skirmish

[dantiesilva]

Nathan while back at home you may have been one of the best, it seemed out in the real world that you were quickly being outpaced by your allies in terms of power as once more you failed to take down your foe while Lady Lauriel had just taken down a second foe in a matter of seconds. Perhaps it was her elven blood that coursed threw her veins, their had to be something to this as it was it made no sense.

Map (http://pyromancers.com/media/view/main.swf?round_id=101067)

[JDL]

Finally free of the influence of the illusion, Dolcetto moves to give herself a clear shot at the remaining Lemure. She curses the fact the Herlekin escaped, pondering the means he used to do so in case it is another illusion or simply invisible.

Spellcraft to identify the spell the Herlekin used to escape
[roll0]

Move Action: Move to k10
Standard Action: Ranged attack vs. Lemure
Attack: [roll1] (-4 into melee applied)
Damage: [roll2]

[dantiesilva]

Dolcetto while you may finally be able to see threw the illusion haunting you that all the others seem to avoid, that boys face seems to appear on the lemure devil at the last moment and your shot wavers, going wide from its intended target. What the hell was that?

However their is no time to wounder at what is going on as the devil once more tries to tear at Nathan with its claws only to fail miserably. I may not have a weapon, but I may be able to distract it. Rosalind says as she runs to the opposite side of the lemure and starts trying to poke it with a stick to avert its attention. However the ploy works better then she had expected as the Lemure claws into her leg leaving a small gash as it rips threw her pant leg.

Rosalind took 3 damage to grant Nathan flanking

Map (http://pyromancers.com/media/view/main.swf?round_id=101090)


Dolcetto
Lauriel
Sister Rosalind
Nathan