Avatars of the Last Pheonix [IC 1]

[Kymme]

On the southeastern edge of the Okoryoshu Fiefdoms, within the domain of Daimyo Maxcard.
On the Seventh Day of Summer, AIII 120.

Many felt the void when the Last Phoenix died. The shockwave of such an auspicious death struck every corner of the world. Water froze into massive icebergs off the shores of tropical islands in the Thousand; golden statues erected to proclaim the glory of the Phoenix and her Avatars grew pitted and brown and rusted; entire plains of amber grasses turned grey and withered under the sun. Children all across the world awoke to nightmares of steel-edged shadows and nine-headed dragons with too many eyes.

It was a dark day when your Mother died. In its wake came the deaths of countless numbers of your Brothers and Sisters. Your Order broke apart and its membership was scattered to the winds like a nest of newborn spiders. The Avatars of the Phoenix are powerful beings, but their true strength was in their unity. After your Mother’s death, you feared that your strength would never return. But this has changed.

A shudder passed through the air when Tylani Jetari first contacted you. The moon was full, and nightingales sang on the warm south winds. To some her name was familiar: a Lady Avatar with external dreaming powers who could call forth the beasts of the wild to serve her. She was terse and rushed in her speech, reaching out for help across pathways long overgrown and silent.

“I have sensed the beginnings of a stir. Slumbering beings raise their faces to the sun in the Fallen Lands, whilst the last of a dying race crawl forth from their ruins in the north. I need your help. Find me where the land breaks, on a shelf where the forest meets the sea. There will be others, traveling towards the same destination. Help them, please. We’re going to need as many as we can.”

Ever since then you’ve been traveling. For some it was a journey across oceans, others ventured through mountains and wastelands and great forests, all to arrive here. Over the course of your journey you’ve gotten to know each other. A hot-blooded Princess as beautiful and terrible as the dawn; a juggernaut of bronzed skin and golden chains bright enough to hold back his fury; a golden sword borne from the Last Phoenix’s own heart; a hunter with a silver mane and silver sword; and a perfect warrior with a humility that belies his grace. Warlords, bandits, and monsters alike stood in your way, but you’ve turned them aside and kept moving. Now all that lies ahead are a few more miles; after that is the Middle Sea and the site of Tylani’s home.

And finally, as you emerge from the cloying forests into the open air and sunshine, you smell something the thick canopy must have masked: smoke. Several columns of smoke emerge before you, their sources blocked by a high ridge. The morning wind carries the sounds of desolation to your waiting ears. Perhaps the time for action has come quicker than expected?

It’s two move actions (like, 50 ft or so) from the edge of the forest to the top of the ridge. Do your thing*, guys.

Chiomara, if you ever have something in mind with your minions, could you please mention it to me?

[JKTrickster]

Zen (http://th08.deviantart.net/fs70/PRE/i/2014/241/6/7/through_the_fade_by_smilika-d7x509x.jpg) was smiling warmly as he walked through the Great Forests of the Okoryoshu Fiefdoms, his home away from home. He had not stepped foot in these forests for over 20 years and he marveled at the majestic forest that he had missed so much. It felt so strange to come back to the place of his Rebirth - not that he had told anyone else about that. He had chosen to withheld a few details about the exact nature of his Rebirth, and the others were understanding enough to not pry any further (although in Princess Archidamia's case, she merely may not have cared enough to even consider it an important detail). He had not told the others where he was Reborn, although they knew it was somewhere on the Northwestern continent, and he had not told them the extent of his....confused personality. The first was an issue of privacy - he felt like he needed to protect the small patch of earth that he been Reborn in. Despite trusting each and every one of them with his life, this was somehow something more. After traveling alone for so long, it simply was hard for him to open up about such a private subject so quickly. Perhaps with time, he told himself as he gazed up at the sunlight filtering down through the dense canopy. The sweet forest air filled his nostrils as he took in another deep breath. Perhaps when we are not pressed with an emergency, I can show them the wonders this majestic forest holds. But then his mind turned towards the second subject he had withheld from his new friends, and his smile visibly dimmed.

The second was a touchy subject that he had to figure out for himself. After all, he couldn't exactly ask any of them who "Zen" was. The question was inherently silly - they had just met him not too long ago and they knew nothing more than he did. If anything, it would just serve to make him seem even more childish and odd. He had already seen Princess Archidamia roll her eyes at his incessant questions when he mistakenly addressed Hamish Halogalos instead of Wrymbreaker, the King of Blades, as one of the Phoenix's Avatars. The others had cracked a smile and easily forgave his mistake, but Zen couldn't get rid of the feeling that Princess Archidamia had given him. He could only imagine everyone else's response if he openly asked them who he was - he would never be able to live it down. It probably wouldn't be that bad, but still.... It never occurred to Zen how odd it was - he trusted these people with his life, he was sure of it. Time and time again they had turned back beasts and warlords alike and he knew how fierce they were on and off the battlefield. Yet here he was worrying about embarrassing himself in front of them (again).

Sighing from his apparent mental troubles, Zen failed to notice when the forest gave way to the open sky. But instead of white clouds and a warm morning sun, a heavy smell of smoke and flames choked the air. It was that thick smell of smoke that jolted Zen from his thoughts - looking up, the black columns were all he could see. Their source was obscured from view, hidden just beyond the edge of the ridge that they were walking towards. Zen's eyes widened when he saw such huge stacks of smoke so close to the forest; it formed an uneasy feeling in the pit of his stomach. Being most comfortable in the forest, Zen was already slightly ahead of the others and so he decided to act. Without a second thought, he looked back and silently motioned that he would run forward to investigate. Picking up speed, he ran over and launched himself towards the ridge. His light feet seemed to dance on the tips of the grass, never fully touching the ground. In moments like these, Zen was no longer just another curious Elf - he easily projected a perfect aura of grace and finesse as he made his way towards the ridge.

He stopped before he fully made it all the way however. Crouching down, he tried to see if he could slowly move forward and look over while remaining hidden. He did not want to give away his position just yet, just in case the smoke was a sign of real danger. Flattening himself along the ridge, he prepared to look over just as the time was right. He was not particularly successful in remaining quiet - small branches hidden in the tall grass would have alerted anyone on the ridge of his presence. But hopefully whoever was down below was too far away to pick up on his accidental sounds.

Keith can move 40 feet as a move action. He spends on going the first 40 feet, then he slowly and carefully moves another 10 feet. His roll results are here (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?451434-Avatars-of-the-Last-Pheonix-Dicey-Business&p=19971056#post19971056) for his Hide and Move Silently attempts. Not the best, but he's just trying to peek out from the top of the ridge.

[manwithaplan]

It had been a long time since the sword had spent time with other Avatars. Ever since returning to society, Wyrmbreaker had learned to find something to appreciate in the lower class of man. The brutal drunkard that held it now was a prime example of that appreciation, trusted with power beyond his deserving in the ultimate show of faith. In truth, after spending so much time with losers and fools, being in the presence of paragons like these almost made the weapon feel pretentious. Some of them in particular were almost supernatural in their arrogance, though the Sword of the Underdog would not go naming names among the people of its Mother. What it would do was make sure their respect went where it was deserved. Hamish Halogalos was not a mindless vessel to carry Wyrmbreaker, not any more than Wyrmbreaker was a mindless weapon to be wielded by Hamish. A common point against the brawler was that he simply wasn't powerful enough to stand with the group - and it was true. Wyrmbreaker will claim until the end of time that that very incompetence is why he is more worthy to wield than any of them. Hamish could die at any moment, and with two replacements walking a hundred feet behind him at all times, he was not bothering to hide the fact. Yet he showed up and he fought, day after day, and for that he was as much a warrior as the most skilled combatant in the world. It was Zen's accidental speech to Hamish, then, that had first forged a great respect for him from the Wyrmbreaker. Even if it had been unintentional, it was a gesture of understanding that some of this group had yet to echo.

It was this set of thoughts that entertained the blade on that day as they trekked through the forest, its occasional mental commune with Hamish breaking up its thought process. After thirty years underground with nobody else to amuse it, the weapon had learned a lot about keeping itself engaged simply with its own imagination. It didn't always need to, of course. As they broke out into the sun's light, Wyrmbreaker was plentifully engaged. It casually observed the area behind them to make sure that Adran Amakiir was lithely sliding through the trees some distance back, while the somewhat less graceful Ulfgar Rumnaheim was stumbling and swearing a way further behind. It would never tell Hamish that it did this, but the fact was, Hamish was doing it too. As Zen moved to investigate ahead, Hamish stood still, content to let his ally look for him. He immediately felt the One Mile Murder's voice in his head.

Do not let your fear demonstrate your weakness. Go forth.

Right.

With a determined nod, Hamish clenched his off-hand into a fist and headed for the point of the ridge.

Wait.

But you said to go.

Perceive with your own senses. Your ally is attempting reconnaissance. Be courteous and allow him such.

Nodding again, the drunk stopped his walk halfway between Zen and the rest of the group. He felt a little silly just standing there, but to be honest, he felt silly a lot of the time with these guys.

Hamish
Move Action: Move 30 Feet.
Standard Action: Total Defence.

Wyrmbreaker
Defend Hamish, just in case. Attack [roll0] as per A Will Of My Own.

[silphael]

Walking, as always, in his hybrid form, Dunir couldn't be more pleased from receiving the Lady's call.

Suffice to say, he was bored. After thirty years of hunting the same everyday monsters, the same crimelords, the same autoproclamed tyrants, all of their schemes looked alike : petty plans made by petty made in far too big shoes. Of course some of those were, sometimes, surprisingly inventing, but never for very long, and right now it turned dull. He wouldn't have stopped hunting them, still, but that became routine...

And routine isn't good, either for health or for self.

His stance about his allies was quite simple : as long as they can fight, they are welcome. If they can follow tactical tips, even more so. And about hero-making sword, why would a sword-making hero have any issue with that? As long as you deserve your respect, Dunir can respect you.

So there he was, standing at the edge of forest, the stench of smoke saturating his senses, a growling roar starting to build in his throat, but he waited, as Zen was bent to scout on what was happening, and his shape wasn't really what anyone could consider discreet.

"Do you see anything? It is finally time to go out of retirement?"

Advancing 30 feet toward the ridge.

[7th son of sons]

Orphis had given his allies somewhat of a wide berth. He disliked the idea of putting them within that seething hate aura that he carried with him always, even if he understood that they knew better of him. He had needed to fight harder than usual, work longer than usual, to prove to them he was more than anger and hatred. Now that that respect was forged, he had no intentions of breaking such bonds. Truth be told, he couldn't be happier with the current collection of his "Siblings". Another Metaline Avatar, even one was not of the same... humanoid persuasion, was a welcome sight. The curiosity found in the elf, his passion and fresh-world naivety, were more than welcome additions towards the hulking brass veteran. The were-creature, Dunir he had learned, offered a kind of... pragmatism, without so many dramatics or theatrics that some avatars gravitated towards. And then there was the Princess, Lady Chiomera Archidamia. Her story was well known among the royals and feudal lords he had served under, her passion and strength matched only by her pride and self assuredness. And for that, she had Orphis absolute respect, though he would not say such things to her directly. Orphis was her shield, even if she did not know it. The Invincible required no such ego stoking.

Seeing some of his marks scramble to the tree line, the rising smoke over the horizon, Orphis looked back and jerked his head towards the tree line. Worthless-Trash and Utter-Garbage, two of Orphis' longest held abyssal servants (That is to say, almost ten days now) looked up to their master as though he were a source of worship.

wat wuld u half us do mastar? Worthless-Trash spoke out to him telepathically, cutting through the low murmer of compliments and inane free thoughts that constantly occupied the lowest point of Orphis' thought.

Go forth and be my eyes before I remove yours. And with nothing more than that, the manes raced to the edge of the cliff, careful to follow masters order of remaining a healthy distance from his companions. Orphis himself took a perch ten feet back from the tree line, not wishing to spoil his allies attempts at subtlety. There was a time and a place for his skills, and now was not the time.

Free Action: Telepathically order manes to the ridge
Move Action: Move thirty feet, Manes also move thirty feet
Standard Action: Convert to move action: Move another ten feet, manes move up twenty feet to see what lies beyond

[NineOfSpades]

Astride her mighty steed, rode a champion. To her rear stretched a column of men, marching side by side. They were clad in solid armor, and armed with fine steel. Some wore beards, some were clean shaven. There was little in the way of consistent race either, beyond the fact all were human. They hailed from many different lands and kingdoms, and stood united as they followed their chief commander. Further still, arranged in a roughly circular mob, was a mass of tiny creatures, which combed through the underbrush, forming a perimeter. And at their center, riding a white steed and clad in armor which seemed to dazzle the eyes as they reflected the morning light, sat Her Royal Highness, Princess Chiomara Archidamia.

The woman eyes remained fixed ahead, a stern gaze which seemed continuously dissatisfied with whatever fell within her eyesight. Clockwork thoughts progressed through her mind, cold and deliberate as she reflected on the past journey which had brought her here, to this point in time, and the insight she'd gained into the other avatars which travled with her. It would be important to note, that she felt no familial bond towards any of those who walked beside her. Since the Phoenix's death, any such links had been severed in the wake of avatar after avatar turning from their path and becoming an enemy. Trust and companionship were no longer granted to any who carried the legacy of the Phoenix within them, it was something which needed to be earned and renewed constantly.

For a moment though, her thoughts lingered on the others. The first was the sword which bore the name of Wyrmbreaker. Its Craftsmanship was impeccable, and as a tool there was no equal that Chiomara had ever encountered. Yet she could not imagine herself to acknowledge it as a true Avatar, for it was eternally dependent upon others. Alone, it was powerless. Further still was its insistence on lending strength to those who were ill fit to carry such a potent force. When they'd first met, Chiomara had considered taking the blade for herself, a barer who's strength was sufficient to employ the true power that such a sword could bring forth. But that was also the very principle which stayed her hand. Her path was hers, and hers alone. She would not have her deeds questioned, not let the doubt as to her accomplishments be uttered because of the weapon she wielded. A ruler need not steal the strength of others to achieve greatness.

Next there was the Elf. Such considerations would not take long, for he had not accomplished anything that merited deeper acknowledgement. He spoke at times of balance, of the flow of the world. As if it were some immutable symmetry, unchangeable and eternal. The weak would often resort to such terms to justify their own failings. It is easy to submit to a force when you view it as intrinsic to the very world. But there was no mountain that could not be sundered, no ocean which could not be crossed, nor windstorm endured or fire extinguished. The only truth of the world were those who had the strength to enforce their own views.

There was the lycanthrope, who's skill for combat had been proven without doubt, and might indeed match that of her own hand. Though, should there be such a battle, it would not be the first time that Chiomara had faced a foe of such physical might. Much the same could be said about the giant of a man, who's skin itself was forged of metal. To deny their power was folly, yet neither seemed to possess the will to direct it towards larger goals.

Not that they could be faulted for that. Few existed who had the needed power, the will and the foresight to claim the throne of the world.

"Hey boss, we got trouble!" chirped one of the imp-like creatured which scurried about underfoot. Its announcment was unneeded though, as Chiomara also had spotted the smoke as they exited the tree-line. She momentarily slowed her steed as she took in the situation. The smell of the blacked embers as they drifted through the pine trees brought her memories back to her own home, long since razed. Her grip on the reigns tighted for a moment, a fleeting gesture which served only as the smallest of hints to the rage which flared inside her heart.

Raising a fist, Chiomara glanced back at her troops, her steely eye causing them to streighten to attention with a haste that could only stem from equal mix of fear and devotion. "MEN! Fan out and be on guard. READY YOUR BOWS!"she shouted, her voice cutting through the air like thunder cracking over the mountaintops. Already, the other avatars were moving forward to see. Let them rush ahead. She would approach at her own pace and see whatever their was to behold.

Approaching the hill, her personal guard spread out into a firing line, longbows at the ready. Ahead, the tiny creatures she commanded had gathered into a massed wall, spears at the ready.


Advancing on horseback to the cliff to see what's up. Move action: 50ft
Swift action to order her Units into position. Infentrymen in the back (2 rows of 8), armed with longbows, with Minions infront of them (5 rows of 10), and Chiomara infront of the group, Sword and shield drawn.

[Kymme]

Atop the ridge.

Cresting the ridgeline, the Avatars see a village in flames (https://docs.google.com/drawings/d/1OTrhykLx-Y-cN9pEWLYwykstCPimivR_zY2Jj-K0FFM/edit). Perhaps twenty thatch-roof buildings dot the small valley, and half of their number are burning. One building: a larger, slate roofed house with a walled courtyard, occupies a small rise at the village’s center. The outskirts of the village are occupied by small crops of corn that glow golden in the morning sun.

A large cottage sits beneath the ridgeline, about ten yards from you. Its shutters are flung open and its door hangs loosely from the hinges. A mangled dog lies in a heap beneath the awning.

Further down, (https://c2.staticflickr.com/4/3893/14664417129_a251bf5cba_b.jpg) where the buildings cluster together, lies another shale-roofed home. Its door has been kicked in and its furniture thrown into the road. Milling about beyond that house are several short creatures in red hats (http://www.monstropedia.org/images/thumb/c/cd/Redcap.jpg/180px-Redcap.jpg). They whoop and holler and poke their weapons at a group of huddled figures, corralling them into a circle in the center of the street. Looking on is a tall creature with long robes and an odd head-dress (http://orig09.deviantart.net/59d6/f/2010/272/4/7/vint_by_quaidezmaster-d2zpili.jpg). It stiffens and raises its head towards you. Its face is blank save for two large insectile eyes. It sees you.

You guys are the white dot in the top left corner of the map. The enemies are clustered around that red dot further down.

For combats over a wide area, I'd rather not chart out a grid and worry about letters and numbers and all that. There is a little scale in the top left, and you guys should be able to use that as a reference (make a circle with a diameter equal to the distance you want to move, and use that as a reference) If you aren't quite sure what I mean, or need any clarification, feel free to ask.

Zen, you are up first!

[JKTrickster]

Zen slowly approached the edge of the ridge, cursing himself for the noise that he was making. Just as he wondered self consciously if he had alerted anyone, he heard Princess Archidamia's voice cut through the air with passion and authority. Turning around, he saw as the Princess rallied her troops into rank and file and valiantly approach the ridge-line on top of her mighty steed. There was no more subtlety or grace - even without looking down the hill, Zen was absolutely sure that they had been spotted. He only hoped that the danger wouldn't react to them first. I have to remember I'm not alone anymore, Zen thought as his mind raced to adapt to the new situation. I can't just do things my way - everyone here prefers a more....direct confrontational strategy. It had actually been one of the things that Zen had to get used to as quickly as possible; when he used to travel alone, he had been accustomed to tackling problems as quietly as possible. Although it reminded him of his...."former" self, Zen still acted a little cautiously when it came to rushing into danger. But when he meet the other Avatars, he learned what fierce combat really looked like; Princess Archidamia lead her troops with a booming voice and harsh commands, while Dunir was an awe-inspiring terror on the battlefield. Orphis was nothing more than a terrifying titan that dominated the area around him and even Hamish and Wyrmbreaker were never far behind. Zen had long ago realized that he still had much to learn about engaging the enemy.

Snapping back to the situation at hand, Zen surveyed the valley below. The whole village seemed to be set ablaze, and the obvious perpetrators were standing only a hundred or so feet in front of him. Taking in a deep breath, Zen jumped ahead of everyone else; deciding to take the initiative for once, Zen found himself rushing towards creatures threatening the huddled masses in the middle. With just a short burst of air, Zen propelled himself far ahead of everyone else. As he sailed through the sky, he started whipping his hands in a clockwise circle as he gathered and compressed the air around him. Despite the calm morning weather, Zen was constantly surrounded by a strong breeze that buffeted his modest robes.

"Stop!" Zen yelled out as he looked down upon the weird small creatures poking and prodding at the huddled masses in the middle of the circle. His eyes drifted to the tall insectile creature that overlooked the entire scene. Changing his angle to face the creature directly, Zen continued speaking. "Lay down your arms and surrender to the authority of the Last Phoenix," Zen's voice rang out true as his brilliant rainbow eyes regarded each and every one of the smaller creatures. He scanned his memories and lessons to see if he could remember where or what these creatures came from. Lifting his arm and clenching his hand into a tight fist, Zen gathered and compacted a tight ball of flame just next to his body. "I will only repeat this one last time - surrender to the authority of the Last Phoenix and stop whatever it is you are doing. Right now."


Zen, The Hand of the Phoenix (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=586867)
Male NG Gaean Child (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?433477-3-5-Mythos-quot-I-will-lead-you-to-the-Promised-Land-quot) Grey Elf Kathodos (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?301261-3-5-quot-I-have-mastered-the-Elements-a-thousand-times-in-a-thousand-lifetimes-quot&p=15947087), Level 8, Init 8, HP 75/75, DR N/A, Speed 40 ft. (Fly, Good)
AC 25, Touch 25, Flat-footed 17, Fort 16, Ref 16, Will 15, Base Attack Bonus +8/+3
- +1 Tiger Claw Discipline Unarmed Strikes +18/+13 (2d6+13, x2)
- Land-Strike Wrath +18/+13 (2d6+13, x2) 30 ft. range, 3 range increments
(+7 AC, Flow of Energy I Class Feature)
Abilities Str 10, Dex 26, Con 14, Int 24, Wis 10, Cha 10
Condition Shield of Air: Concealment against ranged attacks

Actions:

Move Action: Fly 40 ft. towards the Red Circle. I imagine he's somewhat in the air, depending on how high he was back at the ridge-line (since if the ridge is high enough, just going straight forward maintains altitude).

Swift Action: Form a Shield of Air.

Standard Action: Ready a Standard Action to attack the Tall Guy if he refuses to cooperate/surrender. The Ball of Flame is just to signify the Ready Action, not an actual use of any abilities.

He'll take that Standard Action to Attack with Land-Strike Wrath and his Swift Claws maneuver.

Swift Claws isn't a thing. Wolf Fang Strike :smallfrown:


EDIT:

They should be about 60 -80 feet away, so he can hit them just at the edge of his 3 range increments. He'll use Fire because it's nice and flashy. I'll roll the Attack/Damage rolls if/when they actually refuse.

[manwithaplan]

Wyrmbreaker,
The Burning Village.


Wyrmbreaker (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=581730)
Lawful Good Mythborn Longsword Syntrofos, Level 8, Init 0, HP 60/60, DR Hardness 10, Speed -
AC 11, Touch 11, Flat-footed 11, Fort 6, Ref 6, Will 10, Base Attack Bonus +8/+3
Aptitude, Dragon Bane, Holy, Keen A Will Of My Own +17/+12 (2d6 + 6, 17-20/x2)
(+1 Size)
Abilities Int 18, Wis 18, Cha 20
Condition Projecting a Magic Circle Against Evil

Hamish Halogalos (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=581744)
Male Chaotic Good Human Warrior, Level 2, Init 1, HP 28 (24 Temp)/28, Speed 30
AC 16, Touch 16, Flat-footed 15, Fort 5, Ref 1, Will 1, Base Attack Bonus 0
Wyrmbreaker +11/+6 (2d6 + 4, 17-20/x2)
(+1 Dex, +5 Misc)
Abilities Str 15, Dex 13, Con 14, Int 10, Wis 12, Cha 8
Condition Flat-Footed (from Running), standing in a Magic Circle Against Evil

This time, Hamish wasn't as inclined to match Zen. He was trying to perceive like he'd been told, and all he saw was a burning village and what looked like the instigator. With a battlecry he charged forth, rushing to reach the thing with the creepy eyes. He felt no mental resistance from his sword as his feet pounded against the gravel. Indeed, he heard nothing; only the shimmering glow of the weapon's sheer determination. That silence gave him the confidence to take charge.

Heading for the big guy. You lead the assault!

Understood. Be prepared to alter your strategy as we gather more information.

Simply getting into range of the target took all of the inexperienced warrior's energy, but the One-Mile Murder was not as dependent on a wielder as its critics might suggest. It reached out and took control of the man's arms, a process he had learned to anticipate and allow so that the weapon could attack under its own power, bringing to bear the skill of over a century dwelling on swordplay. Hamish would swing the sword horizontally across his target's position as if he were attempting to cut them in two before stopping and aiming higher on the backswing, seemingly aiming for his target's almost concealed neck.

No mercy! Also a note; Wyrmbreaker doesn't get initiative while being wielded. He just acts with Hamish.

Hamish Halogalos
Full-Round Action: Run through town and right up to bug-eyes.

Wyrmbreaker
Full-Round Action: Make a Full Attack. Attacks at [roll0] for [roll1] (plus an extra [roll2] if the target is Evil) Magic Slashing Damage and [roll3] for [roll4] (plus an extra [roll5] if the target is Evil) Magic Slashing Damage. If the target happens to be a Wyrmborn, let me know so I can make a few more changes to that.

Finally, all enemy weapons within 80 feet of Hamish are now kneeling to Wyrmbreaker. These weapons no longer have damage dice; a Longsword in this area for example will just do Strength damage, as opposed to 1d8 + Strength. Additionally, these weapons are at a -4 Penalty against Disarm checks.

[Kymme]

Within the burning village.

The tall being tilts its head to the side as Zen calls out to it. It responds telepathically in a melodious voice, like a poet reciting an epic.

<<The Phoenix's flame has gone out, and though
some ember burn brightly, I know it so.
You ask me to cease, dear dying spark,
But I know the truth, so listen, hark:
Leave us be, go on your way.
Calm your heart to see another day.>>

Before it can continue with its rhyme, Hamish comes lancing towards it with all the speed he can muster. The creature's brow furrows and a tube of metal drops from its sleeve into its open hand. The sound of ringing steel echoes into the morning air as it parries both of Hamish's swings. Behind them the townspeople gasp in astonishment, some of them attempting to stand before being forced back to their knees by the angry redcaps.

Wyrmbreaker carves deep furrows into the silver flute and the robed monster tenses its body in fury. It darts to side, kicking off the railing of the shale-roofed cottage and soaring over Hamish's head. As it leaps, it swings one of its legs down in a kick aimed for the warrior's head. There is a resounding impact and the monster darts away, feet treading lightly as it dances through the air.

Then Zen lets loose with his power. The first fireball is in the air before the banshrae touches the ground. With inhuman speed, the banshrae lashes forward and knocks the attack off course, sending it spinning into the dirt. It deftly sidesteps the second fireball, but the third strikes true and the monster doubles over in pain. It clutches its wound with a free hand, barely avoid the final shot. Fixing Zen with a hateful glare, the fey twirls its flute and assumes a defensive posture.

An tiny arrow soars through the air towards Hamish. Nobody seems to notice.

The banshrae draws its flute as an immediate action just before Hamish attacks it. Both of Wyrmbreaker's attacks miss.

Then the banshrae goes. It uses Spring Attack to punch Hamish (avoiding his AoO through Spring Attack, and Wyrmbreakers AoO through an obscene Tumble check.) Hamish takes 8 damage, and must make a Fortitude save or succumb to the power of the fist. It ends its movement on the opposite side of the redcaps.

Then something as of yet unseen attempts to attack Hamish. It might hit, but then again, it might not. If Hamish fails his Fortitude save, he'll need to make me a Will save, too.

Anybody who wants to can make a Spot check to notice what fired the arrow. If anybody has any special vision modes (like Mindsight or whatever), please tell me.

Orphis, you're up!

[NineOfSpades]

From atop the hill, surveying the situation, Chiomara smirked for a moment as the elf and the blade-barer rushed in. One proclaiming peace, the other began cutting through the enemies like a farmer might cut down rows of wheat. Adorable. But their efforts needed greater force than could be conveyed through mere deeds. The message needed to be made clear and inescapable. Looking to her side, the princess addressed the largest of her creations "Giblet, stay her and organize my archers. Prepare to volley on my signal". With a bow, Giblet responded humbly "But of course, mistress"

Striding forward on her steed, Chiomara spoke. She was as the thunder, as an avalance, the cracking of a frozen lake with the coming of spring. Her words were not sounds, they were laws. "Hear me now, you detestable worms! I am Chiomara Archidamia, and I am claiming these lands in my own name, from now till the end of time itself!" Her pace was steady, unconcerned as she approached, her eidicts booming louder with each moment as they reverberated amidst the flames "And as the Protector of this village, I find you all GUILTY of treason, for daring to raise a hand against these farmers. A Crime For which the only punishment is DEATH!" Though her voice was loud and fearsome, it was soothing compared to her eyes. Those who had the audacity to meet her gaze would glimpse at the unquenchable force which lurked behind the softness of her features. "If any of you fools wish to see the end of this day, I bid to you now, Surrender and Submit yourself, and I may show mercy, you filthy maggots!"


Her Royal Highness, Princess Chiomara Archidamia (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=593041http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=581548)
Female LN Mythborn Human Dinyomi (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?429524-quot-I-Refuse-No-Road-to-Power-quot-Mythic-3-5)/Anakitos (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?403561-3-5-quot-Hail-to-the-Gods-of-Creation-Hail-to-the-King-of-the-World-quot), Level 8, Init 0, HP 79/79, DR 11/-, Speed 30 (20ft with armor) AC 29, Touch 15, Flat-footed 29, Humbled 24, Fort 16, Ref 15, Will 16 (+ Unnatural Will/Indomitable Soul), Base Attack Bonus +8/+3
-Pure Adamantine Longsword +17/+12 (2d6+8, 19-20/x2)
-Pure Heavy Spiked Shield +17/+12 (1d6+8, x2)
-Pure Composite Longbow +17/+12 (1d8+8, x3) 110ft range
(+10 Armor, +4 Shield, +5 Untyped Pride)
Abilities Str 18, Dex 10, Con 16, Int 16, Wis 16, Cha 20
Condition None

Move Action: Travel down the hill into town via horse (50ft movement)
Standard Action: Stratagem-Refining Simpletons Jargon. All enemies within 60ft take a -4 Morale penelty to saves vs fear and charm, and to attack and damage rolls against me, for as long as I maintain the effect, and for 5 rounds after. Also triggers a Laugh Of opportunity. Any language dependent effects within the zone of effect must beat me at an opposed CHA check to function.

Intimidate check for laugh of opportunity (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=19978434&postcount=12)

Enemies affected must make a modified level check (1d20+HD or class levels+Wis) with the -4 penalty or cowerd for 1 round and then be shaken for 5 rounds after.

I have not attacked anyone, and so am not yet counted as an enemy. Anyone wishing to attack me must beat a DC 19 Will save, or their attack fails and their action is wasted. I am auto-excluded from any effect which targets enemies (Including Attacks of Opportunity).

My archers will be firing on my normal turn in the initiative order

[7th son of sons]

Worthless-Trash and Utter-Garbage relayed to their master what, exactly, they had seen, and between the two of them, Orphis has a decent idea of what was going on upon the other side. Barking out to Insignificant-Scum and Miserable-Wretch, both of whom scrambled into Orphis' hands while the others followed closely behind. Slamming his fists together, the air was filled with a sound reminiscent of an old cracked church bell before sprinting over the hilltop and into view of the gathered crowd. His face was one of quiet patience, even as his eyes fell across each and every one of the cowering red-caps, but a slight squeeze of his two servants indicated a growing disdain in his heart. With a wide arc, he launched Miserable-Wretch at the nearest cowering creature, the creature screeching a war cry before bursting into a putrid cloud.

He looked then to the deft flutist, spreading his arms wide, as if inviting the creature to strike him. "Come to test your mettle, tittering fool?"

Manes: Insignificant-Scum and Miserable-Wretch spend their full turn moving into Orphis hands. The Rest remain behind him, Worthless-Trash and Utter-Garbage at his sides.

Full-Round Action: Moving 60 feet, right behind (And towering over) Hamish

Free Action: Reactive Spot Check (Automatically Detect Chaos and Evil as per THE ABYSS MANIFEST)

[Kymme]

The burning village.

Hamish staggers. The banshrae's kick struck him in the temple, and a trickle of blood drips from his nose as he struggles to maintain focus. Then an arrow strikes him in the shoulder and he falls to his knees. The brave warrior's eyes roll back and he slumps to the ground, Wyrmbreaker tumbling from his hands.

The redcaps grin and begin to creep towards the unconscious warrior, but they are cut short by Princess Chiomara's speech. Their forward ranks freeze in their tracks, paralyzed by fear. Seeing an opportunity one of the huddled villagers, a young girl with black hair, leaps towards the legendary blade, reaching out to pick it up. The redcaps around her are too afraid to react, but the two furthest from Chiomara are spurred to action by the banshrae's telepathic voice. They step forward to seize the girl, but are blocked by the villagers. A tense grapple follows as both sides lunge at each other. The redcaps slash wildly with their scythes, cutting down many of the villagers, but are eventually overwhelmed by the weight of their numbers and forced to the ground.

The girl seizes Wyrmbreaker by the hilt and lifts him up, swaying under the golden weapon's weight. Her voice is a terrified whisper. "You... you're the Sword of the Underdog, aren't you? Wyrmbreaker? Help me, please!" She turns back towards the redcaps and hefts the legendary blade in a clumsy rendition of a warrior's stance. "Help me save my home!"

Miserable-Wretch's death throes catch two of the redcaps. They are swallowed by the noxious cloud but emerge with only slight burns. They attempt to shriek in pain, but their voices catch in their throats. All eyes are locked on Chiomara.

Except for the banshrae. It glares at the villagers holding down the redcaps, foot tapping a frantic tempo on the dirt road. If it could, it'd be rolling its eyes.

You can make out a faint outline in the smoke above a burning cottage: it is a tiny creature, perhaps a humanoid. They were the one who fired the arrow that struck Hamish.

So, Hamish was stunned by the banshrae's attack. His AC reduced by two, he was then struck by the arrow. It did no damage, though, and instead put him to sleep. Hamish is currently unconscious.

Orphis missed with is thrown attack, but the weapon still splashed into redcap 1 and 2, dealing 3 points of acid damage to both of them. He also spotted the creature that sniped Hamish. It is currently invisible, as well as flying. I've added its location to the map (https://docs.google.com/drawings/d/1OTrhykLx-Y-cN9pEWLYwykstCPimivR_zY2Jj-K0FFM/edit).

Then the villagers went. One girl picked up Wyrmbreaker, and the others attempted to grapple the redcaps. 7 of them were cut down by AoOs. May they rest in peace. Luckily, there were enough successful grapple checks to weigh down the two non-cowering redcaps. They then failed to escape being grappled on their own turns.

Wyrmbreaker, I'm keeping your initiative where it was, despite the change in wielders.

Dunir, it's your go!

[silphael]

Weapon in hand, now roaring for real, Dunir dashed toward the nearest house, to then pounce toward the roof and keep running toward the following house's roof, ready to rain death from above on those puny little pests. His roar now definitely sounds like a challenge...

"You will pay tenfold for any of those villagers that you kill!"

They won't escape after that, never!

Gonna sprint. As by Peerless Parkour Athleticism, I can sprint without going straight as long as whenever I change direction I'm also rolling an athletic skill (balance climb jump tumble and swim), and the "Hop Up" option doesn't count in my distance as long as I can move at least 10 feet between each hop up. Finally I get a cumulative +2 per athletic skill rolled in the round. So basically :

Jump up, jump down, reception, jump up.

Also, I enter the "Challenge the Many" stance.

Dice post. (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=19981164&postcount=22)

[JKTrickster]

Zen gasped when he saw the villagers being cut down just in front of him - their cries cutting much deeper than the petty insults and taunting words of the banshrae. Without another moment of hesitation, Zen flew forward alongside Dunrir, wind and fire blasting from his feet. Rushing to Hammish's aid, Zen did not want to waste any more time hesitating. He had already made a mistake by not striking first - he wanted to make sure he could make up for those transgressions. Spinning in the middle of the air, Zen whipped a strong blaze around him before unleashing a fiery barrage on the redcaps below. Jabbing forward with his fists and throwing huge arcs with his kicks, his fiery attacks were unrelenting. Specifically, he targeted those closest to Hammish and the girl who picked up Wyrmbreaker. "Destroy the Redcaps first!" he tried to shout over the evolving chaos. "We can't let any more of them die!"

Zen, The Hand of the Phoenix (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=586867)
Male NG Gaean Child (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?433477-3-5-Mythos-quot-I-will-lead-you-to-the-Promised-Land-quot) Grey Elf Kathodos (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?301261-3-5-quot-I-have-mastered-the-Elements-a-thousand-times-in-a-thousand-lifetimes-quot&p=15947087), Level 8, Init 8, HP 75/75, DR N/A, Speed 40 ft. (Fly, Good)
AC 25, Touch 25, Flat-footed 17, Fort 16, Ref 16, Will 15, Base Attack Bonus +8/+3
- +1 Tiger Claw Discipline Unarmed Strikes +18/+13 (2d6+13, x2)
- Land-Strike Wrath +18/+13 (2d6+13, x2) 30 ft. range, 3 range increments
(+7 AC, Flow of Energy I Class Feature)
Abilities Str 10, Dex 26, Con 14, Int 24, Wis 10, Cha 10
Condition Shield of Air: Concealment against ranged attacks


Move Action: Move forward 40 ft.

Standard Action: Double Wolf Fang Strike time! Attack and Damage rolls here. (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=19982338&postcount=23)

Zen will prioritize Redcaps 2 and 3, the two that are closest to Wyrmbreaker. If the first Wolf Fang Strike kills, let's say Redcap 2, please target the second Wolf Fang Strike against Redcap 3. But prioritize killing at least one over injuring two.

[manwithaplan]

Wyrmbreaker,
The Burning Village.


Wyrmbreaker (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=581730)
Lawful Good Mythborn Longsword Syntrofos, Level 8, Init 0, HP 60/60, DR Hardness 10, Speed -
AC 11, Touch 11, Flat-footed 11, Fort 6, Ref 6, Will 10, Base Attack Bonus +8/+3
Aptitude, Dragon Bane, Holy, Keen A Will Of My Own +17/+12 (2d6 + 6, 17-20/x2)
(+1 Size)
Abilities Int 18, Wis 18, Cha 20
Condition Projecting a Magic Circle Against Evil

Adran and Ulfgar had been waited timidly behind the group to move in, but their inhibitions suddenly disappeared at the same time as Hamish’s safety. They moved in, the elf delicately sprinting while the dwarf moved somewhat less gracefully behind him, knowing fully well their roles. They stopped sharp when the girl drew up the object of their worship. Before they could do anything further, a voice boomed from the blade itself, tempered by both fury and mourning at Hamish’s pain.

"Followers, remain where you are! The girl appears small, but she has displayed already a great deal of strength. Let her fight in Sir Halogalos' stead for this time."

They had no reason not to obey. It had been a long time since they had heard the sword’s voice, and not its thoughts or desires echoed through Hamish’s paraphrased commands.

Meanwhile, the King of Blades parleyed with the girl.

You lack experience, and this mantle is not yours to take on. Yet you grasp it, and so it shall be yours. If you are willing to fight, go forth and strike at their leader. I will supplement your abilities with my own; by attacking in unison, we may have a chance to breach its defences.

Okay. She isn’t trained, so Wyrmbreaker loses Aptitude and Keen. Bonding with a wielder isn’t an action as far as I can tell, so they can at least do that and give her the various benefits involved, primarily getting to use my +8/+3 BAB and having proficiency with me.

It’s hard to declare what I’m doing since I don’t control this girl like Hamish, but assuming she’s cooperating and willing to fight, I’ll have her move through the Cowering/Grappled Red Caps to the Banshrae, and make a Full Attack against him. If she does this, again, assuming she allowed the bond she is considered proficient and has my BAB, in addition to getting the bonus from a +1 weapon (which she gets either way).

Then Wyrmbreaker will also make a Full Attack, which I will roll for.
Attack [roll0]
Damage [roll1]
Holy Bonus [roll2]

Attack [roll3]
Damage [roll4]
Holy Bonus [roll5]

[Kymme]

Within the burning village.

Zen’s attack falls upon the redcaps like a shower of comets. One of the redcaps is immolated in an instant, and his comrade is scorched black by the burst of flame.

The young girl looks upon Wyrmbreaker's glory with palpable awe. She nods wordlessly and takes a step forward. Followed by another. And another. She is running, charging towards the banshrae with a heart full of anger and hands filled with gold. With the ancient weapons help, she lets loose a flurry of shining blows.

An anguished cry goes up from the surrounding villagers as the banshrae nimbly sidesteps her attacks. The first two strike naught but air and earth, but the third manages to connect; it leaves a thin gash on the banshrae's shoulder that the fey monster arrogantly ignores, turning its attention to the approaching warriors.

The banshrae's eyes widen the peasant girl impales it with her sword, driving the whole length of Wyrmbreaker's blade into its unsuspecting belly. The creature convulses in pain and fury and tears the blade from its stomach, leaving behind a gaping wound trailing misty blood and torn cloth. It tumbles away, one hand holding its flute, the other clutching its wound. As it lands it fires a dart at one of the still-living villagers. The old man cries out in pain and doubles over as locusts begin to erupt from the dart, coalescing into a massive swarm. After that it raises its flute to its mouth-less face and begins to play a haunting melody (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ePz3QSfJiuc).

Some distance away, a commotion rises up within Chiomara's troops. The vines and grass of the hilltop betray them, rising up in a thick net that wraps around their legs and (in the case of her minions) almost engulfing some.

To the east, a cluster of angry voices begin to echo out among the burning houses. Then, rounding the corner, comes a veritable horde of redcaps, running and jumping and falling over one another in a madcap dash for the Avatars.

Zen's attacks kill Redcap 2 outright, and his fourth attack damages Redcap 3, dealing 23 points of damage.

The girl accepts Wyrmbreaker's offer. She moves up to the Banshrae. Wyrmbreaker uses his attacks, and both of them miss. The girl strikes at the banshrae twice, her first attack hitting and dealing 13 damage. Unfortunately, the banshrae's DR soaks up most of this, resulting in only 3 damage. Her second attack, however, crits. It deals 15 damage, taking DR into account. The banshrae has lost 37 hp, in total.

Then the banshrae goes. It tumbles away from the girl and Wyrmbreaker, avoiding AoOs with another obscene tumble check. Then it fires a special dart at one of the villagers. He fails his save and is slain as a swarm of locusts emerges from his body. The banshrae ends its turn by playing a song on its flute. I'd like Dunir and Zen to make me will saves, please.

Chiomara's troops are hit with some sort of entangling effect. The area marked on the map (https://docs.google.com/drawings/d/1OTrhykLx-Y-cN9pEWLYwykstCPimivR_zY2Jj-K0FFM/edit) now counts as difficult terrain. Seven of her Infantrymen are now immobilized, requiring DC 20 Strength or Escape Artist checks to break free. Twenty two of her Minions are similarly immobilized.

Spot checks to identify what created the effect. Anyone present on the battlefield is able roll.

[7th son of sons]

The Metaline Sentinel lived up to his name, his eyes quickly surveying all around him as he searched for any further hidden threats. When his eyes fell upon the threat, he marked it upon his mental map to deal with later, much as he had with the invisible thing. With a single nod, the manes behind him launched into a furious assault, screeching and hollering and flailing limbs as they sprinted into the crowd of awaiting red caps. Orphis looked for an opening, and found one. Slamming his massive fist into the ground, he sprinted forward, bringing his fist right into the skull of one of the red-caps, the force of his blow sending his body flying through the air at the dancing fey creature.

Rising back to his feet, Orphis again spread his arms wide, inviting any of the red-caps, some of which were now within his abyssal aura, to try and take him out.


Free Action: Spot Check for the thing (I got a 50, which is also a Crit)

Free Action: Telepathically tell all my manes to attack (Various Rolls)

Full Round Action: Charge to the farthest Red-Cap I can reach (None of their AoO will do damage to me), and attack him (Hits AC 35, Deals 25 Damage)

Activating God-Smashing Blow: God-Kicking Boot: Red Cap makes an opposed strength check (DC 32 (assuming he's still alive), with a -4 for being Small (I assume)) or be pushed back 5 feet + 5 feet for every 5 he failed the check. If he travels far enough to hit the Banshrae, the Banshrae must make a reflex save or take 1d6 points of damage per five feet of forced movement prevented, otherwise the Red Cap moves right past him.

[NineOfSpades]

Chiomara looked upon the fear and disarray of the battle, the sight only strengthening her conviction. Such mayhem was the natural consequence of the world that had lost its leader. And like cockroaches skittering in panic at the coming of light, these monsterous beasts could do nothing in the face of her presence, their spirits breaking as the truth of the world, of their inferiority, was forced upon them.

But there was still the one sanding above the others, the insect which walked like a man. It fled before them, and struck out at the wimpering villagers. Pathetic. Moving forward, she closed in on the beast, crossing through the massed, frightful red-caps. "You are parasites, all of you, drinking the milk of others. NO MORE! Even Swine and Cattle have more dignity than that. You are all REVOLTING!"

Now, she was seated above the Banshrae, looking down on it. "AND YOU MOST OF ALL! Get out of my Sight!" She roared, striking down with shield and blade, holding no mercy in her heart, only contempt for the foolish.

Meanwhile, the minions and soldiers entangled by the enchanted vines drew their blades and began cutting away at the entangling mass, striving to free themselves from the foul hex as they pressed forward.



Chiomara will direct her horse with her knees (Free action: Ride Check), Maintain her Speeching (Swift action), and then full attack on the banshrae.

My troops will either take a full round action to move out of the entangled area (if not immobilized) or attempt their strength checks.

[Kymme]

The burning village.

Orphis' uppercut launches the redcap through the air with a burst of kinetic energy. The banshrae ducks to the side, avoiding his flying lackey by a hairsbreadth. The redcap strikes a building several yards away with a sickening crunch. The others remain paralyzed with fear, unwilling to stop Chiomara as she rides through them, swatting the occasional locust that gets in her way.

The Princess' attacks strike the banshrae in a powerful flurry. However, the monster's fey nature warps her attacks, causing only minor wounds.

Seeing their leader stand up against the terrifying Princess' attack, the redcaps finally regain their courage. They scatter across the battlefield, two of them darting towards the Princess, and two others leaping towards Orphis. The Princess weathers their assault with grace and finesse, blocking their scythes with her shield and impenetrable will. Orphis, however, makes for a much better target. The redcap's scythes carve deep furrows along his back. One slashes him across the neck with force that could kill a mortal man, but the Metaline Sentinel simply shrugs it off.

Then Dunir swoops down from on high, broadsword flashing from its sheath. Moving so fast as to appear in multiple places at once, he cuts the redcaps down where they stand. His hewing swings cleave two of the bloodthirsty fey into pieces before they could so much as scream. Landing with the poise of a legendary warrior, Dunir stands to his feet beside the peasant girl, towering over her. He rests his blade on his shoulder with a casual air, grinning fiercely at his comrades.

So, Orphis' attack annihilates that redcap. He is very, very dead. The banshrae manages to avoid it, though.

Chiomara strikes the banshrae with all of her attacks, but the creature's Damage Reduction negates some of her damage. She deals a total of 14 damage.

Then the redcaps go. Two of them miss Chiomara (This procs a Laugh of Opportunity, right? If she decides to do so offer, she won't be able to continue her speech next round. Swift/Immediate, and all that.) but the other two strike Orphis resoundingly. One of them threatens to crit, but fails to confirm. They succeed in dealing 30 damage to him (this is already factoring in his DR).

All of Chiomara's soldiers who freed themselves manged to get clear of the entangling field. However, they had to scatter to do so, and are now gathered around all sides of the big circle. Everybody who tried to free themselves will have to make another Reflex save next round to avoid being entangled again.

Then Dunir goes. He uses Vanguard of One to activate Vanguard Feint on three separate redcaps. Two of his attacks crit, and kill two redcaps outright, but the middle attack misses. Then he uses Imperator's Warning and strikes another redcap for 26 damage.

That marks the end of round 2 and the beginning of round 3. Zen, you're up!

[JKTrickster]

From his perch in the sky, Zen could see Princess Archidamia's troops hampered and bogged down from grasping vines and thick roots. From prior experience, Zen could tell that someone must have been enchanting the very nature around them - but his eyes could not pick up any foes. From the east, a huge horde of redcaps hollered and yelped as they threatened to close in and surround the group. It honestly looked like a frightening group - he wasn't sure how he could even hope to protect the villagers from that large invasive force. What are they doing here?, he thought as he tried to quickly come to a solution that would help everyone out. But with the redcaps closing in on the horizon, Zen understood the strategic importance of closing the battle quickly; if they didn't stop the banshrae now, it would become downright impossible later. Unwilling to remain floating above the action any longer, Zen dived down alongside Dunrir as he leaped into battle. The miniature cloud of air he was riding on slowly dissipated as he deftly landed on the ground, dispersing into wisps of smoke as he brought his momentum into his next barrage of attacks.

Bringing his hand down in a sharp diagonal cut, Zen brought a wave of flame against the locust horde; neutralizing it right now would prevent it from harming any more villagers and stop it from harassing his fellow Avatars. He follow up by thrusting his open palm forward, bringing his full weight onto his forward foot. A wide column of flame burst from his palm, incinerating the locusts into a fine black mess as their charred remains left a lingering smoking flavor in the air. Not stopping there, Zen planted his front feet hard into the ground as he turned and twirled on that foot he brought a strong roundhouse kick as the flames danced in the air. Zen's attention was slightly undercut by the haunting melody playing through the air - he managed to ground his mind and prevent any further distractions to influence him but his gaze shifted to the banshrae. Taking in a deep breath, Zen used his final strength to shift his weight onto his back leg as he threw up a rapid barrage of kicks and punches - each sending a flurry of flame and destruction on the weakened Banshrae. Zen was going to end it here - now or never.

Zen, The Hand of the Phoenix (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=586867)
Male NG Gaean Child (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?433477-3-5-Mythos-quot-I-will-lead-you-to-the-Promised-Land-quot) Grey Elf Kathodos (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?301261-3-5-quot-I-have-mastered-the-Elements-a-thousand-times-in-a-thousand-lifetimes-quot&p=15947087), Level 8, Init 8, HP 75/75, DR N/A, Speed 40 ft. (Fly, Good)
AC 25, Touch 25, Flat-footed 17, Fort 16, Ref 16, Will 15, Base Attack Bonus +8/+3
- +1 Tiger Claw Discipline Unarmed Strikes +18/+13 (2d6+13, x2)
- Land-Strike Wrath +18/+13 (2d6+13, x2) 30 ft. range, 3 range increments
(+7 AC, Flow of Energy I Class Feature)
Abilities Str 10, Dex 26, Con 14, Int 24, Wis 10, Cha 10
Condition Shield of Air: Concealment against ranged attacks


Move Action: Move down and forward 40 ft. If I understand correctly, he was 30 ft. in the air so he should be able to move forward by a bit too right?

Standard Action: Double Wolf Fang Strike time! Attack (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=19996032&postcount=40) and Damage (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=19996035&postcount=41) rolls here.

Zen will prioritize the Locust Swarm first, then target the Banshrae with the second Wolf Fang Strike if the Swarm dies from the first one. But focus on killing the Swarm first.

[manwithaplan]

The responsibilities of a member of the order were very clear. All redundant members and ‘backup-backups’ travelling with the group were to act as bodyguards, protecting or recovering the body of any defeated wielders. While third of command Ulfgar was weaseling as close as he could to the unconscious Hamish in an attempt to retrieve his body, second in command Adran was squeezing between his weapon’s allies and brushing himself against the nearby house wall to approach the creature that Hamish had first challenged.

"Wyrmbreaker, over here!"

Across the battlefield, the King of Blades spoke into its younger wielder’s mind.

Your drive has served justice, and your will has earned respect. We will speak further, but for this time your role is complete. You must take your arm and launch me to the elven fighter. He will take the mantle back at this moment.

With a nod and a swing the blade was released, piercing through the skies as it had just earlier the banshrae’s body. As it would once again. It turned over itself, sailing hilt-first towards the elven thief. A lithe and slender hand reached out to catch it, taking firm grip of the sword.

A supreme display of initiative, Sir Amakiir! Engage in your greatest effort to penetrate his defences. I will attempt to destroy the instrument.


Right, let’s Sunder this flute.

Attack [roll0]
Damage [roll1]

Attack [roll2]
Damage [roll3]

If I successfully destroy it (and it is a magical item), I also get Mythos Points equal to its value in gold pieces. Additionally, if Adran was able to get into his current position with a single move action, he’ll perform a full attack against the Banshrae. I don’t actually have stats for him yet, and I’m on my phone so I can’t put any together, but he’s a level 1 Elf Expert with stealth-related skills and feats. His strength score is 10, and he doesn’t have any bonuses to attack.

[Kymme]

The burning village.

Zen's opening burst of flame annihilates the locust swarm, sending charred husks raining down across the battlefield. His next barrage strikes at the banshrae, who deflects a few of the attacks with an artful twirl of its flute.

The fey staggers backwards at the force of the Avatar's assault, and is nearly blindsided as Sir Amakiir appears beside it, Wyrmbreaker in hand. With a single slash, the deft elf bisects the fey's instrument, knocking both halves out of the banshrae's hands. Furious, the creature ducks around the warrior's remaining attacks and deflects the King of Blades with a quick jab.

Thoroughly out of options and surrounded by enemies, the banshrae tumbles away, ducking into an alley and sprinting away as fast as it can. The redcaps it left behind frown and glance at each other, but they continue to fight.

Meanwhile, Orphis' demons make contact with the redcap horde. Or, at least, they try to. As soon as the first mane tries to make contact with the closest redcap, the whole horde unravels into a thousand gossamer strands - an illusion.

From somewhere deeper within the village, a hiss (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2QQ4FxjNclo) echoes out. It is joined by a chorus of voices: another group of redcaps is moving through the streets.

Locust swarm is down. We hardly new ye. Zen struck the banshrae three times, though it deflected the final hit, dealing a total of 32 damage. The banshrae is on its last legs.

Wyrmbreaker's successfully sundered the banshrae's weapon, but the remainder of his attacks missed.

On the banshrae's turn, it got the H out of there (with another crazy high tumble check).

The vines again attacked Chiomara's troops. Two had managed to free themselves on their previous turn, and neither of them succumbed to the vines a second time. Two of the minions had also managed to break free, and neither of them succumbed to the vines either.

Orphis, it's your go!

[7th son of sons]

Orphis looked down at the four obviously frightened, tittering red caps that remained, alone upon the street with his comrades. Surely, they four, imbued with The Mothers love would be an overwhelming adversary for these pitiable creatures. He was not needed here, but there were other avenues to take to if this battlefield was to be cleared.

Return to the true fight, loathable abominations he ordered. His manes new better than to question their Lord, and came sprinting back to the site of the other Avatars, ready to throw themselves at the nearest redcap should the chance arise. Better to die in the glory of combat than feel he ire of their master.

Orphis turned his attention to the house now at his side. The building seemed sturdy (enough), and provided the perfect means for him to accomplish all that was required. With a single bound he leaped to the side of the roof, his arms barely extending to catch the edge of the simple roofing. With a swift tug, he pulled himself to the top, his eyes honing in on where he had last seen the first invisible creature.

Jump Check to reach the roof of the house I'm near (Large Creatures have 16 foot vertical reach): 37

If check meant I could make it to the roof without needing to pull myself up, the long jump to the next roof is 27. If it's not, I pull myself up on to the Roof (Beating the climb DC of 15 to do so)

[NineOfSpades]

Cowardance. To be expected from such an insignificant creature as this flute playing beast. Like a frigtened rabit, it turned and darted off underfoot, practically tumbling end over end as it did so, desperation and fear driving it onward with reckless abandon. Narrowing her gaze, Chiomara gripped her blade "No" she murmurer, driving her heels into her steed and spurring it into motion, giving chase. The distance between her and the Barashe vanished, till she was suddenly infront of it. With flames roaring at her back, illuminating her every motion. "There is No escape". Then, pausing only a moment to twirl her blade as she gripped at its hilt, Chiomara struck at Barashe.

Elsewhere, upon the hill, Giblet rallied the soldiers and servents which had managed to remain free of the vines. "Into the square with you, go on, purge this village in the name of our mistress. Archers, take aim and fire when ready: Your targets are marked with red"

Bows in hand, The men notched their arrows and drew back on the bowstring, Sighting down the redcaps that were moving in on Chiomara, and released with a solid twang.

The minions rallied, Swepping down in a massed tide towards the central square. As they ran they cried out a great many hoots and hollers. "For The Mistress!" "Naughty, Naughty! Those are Mistress's sheepies!" "Show Her Strength!"


Her Royal Highness, Princess Chiomara Archidamia (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=593041http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=581548)
Female LN Mythborn Human Dinyomi (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?429524-quot-I-Refuse-No-Road-to-Power-quot-Mythic-3-5)/Anakitos (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?403561-3-5-quot-Hail-to-the-Gods-of-Creation-Hail-to-the-King-of-the-World-quot), Level 8, Init 0, HP 79/79, DR 11/-, Speed 30 (20ft with armor) AC 29, Touch 15, Flat-footed 29, Humbled 24, Fort 16, Ref 15, Will 16 (+ Unnatural Will/Indomitable Soul), Base Attack Bonus +8/+3
-Pure Adamantine Longsword +17/+12 (2d6+8, 19-20/x2)
-Pure Heavy Spiked Shield +17/+12 (1d6+8, x2)
-Pure Composite Longbow +17/+12 (1d8+8, x3) 110ft range
(+10 Armor, +4 Shield, +5 Untyped Pride)
Abilities Str 18, Dex 10, Con 16, Int 16, Wis 16, Cha 20
Condition None

Chiomara gives chase to the fleeing Barashe, and then attempts to drop it with a Full attack, much as I'd like to make a more public display of this, the damn thing turned a guy into a swarm of bugs. Take no chances.

Infantrymen not entangled will fire at the second Redcap horde.

Minions are charging the four redcaps in the central square and attacking en-mass.

Minions and Infantry who are entangled will attempt to escape again.

[Kymme]

The burning village.

From his new vantage point, Orphis can easily make out the two invisible assailants by the way the smoke twists and billows around them. They are tiny creatures, smaller than halflings, and both of them are hovering forty feet in the air. The cottage cracks and shifts beneath his feet, old timbers adjusting to a weight they've never before felt.

As Chiomara sets off after the retreating banshrae, a hail of arrows descends upon the redcaps. Their fey skin proves resilient to mortal arms, however, and even as the Lioness' horde of minions assails them with a tidal wave of spears, the redcaps stand tall and weather the assault.

The banshrae skids to a stop, wirling and taking Chiomara's attacks across its chest and arms. Despite the force of her will, it remains standing. Behind it a contingent of redcaps move out from behind the cover of a large shale-roofed building. The gates into the building's courtyard lie open, snapped off of their hinges. Past them, Chiomara can see a great evil serpent, eyes gleaming with fey intelligence. The moment she meets its gaze the Avatar is overcome with feelings of revulsion. Bile wells up in her throat at the very sight of it. The creature hisses at her in the Common Tongue. "An Avatar? No doubt kin to the Black Demon. Have you been sent to strike us down for good? Go ahead and try. If I am to die here, then I shall die fighting!"

The massive serpent fixes Chiomara with a malevolent glare. She can feel sickness welling up within, threatening to collapse and overwhelm her. Then it rises into the air on wings of gossamer, conjuring forth a writhing pile of snakes that twists together into a massive serpent. The serpent lands behind Chiomara, blocking the entire street with its coils. The conjured monstrosity roars at the Princess, its voice a susurrus of hisses. It lunges, mouth widening to reveal row upon row of hooked fangs. The Princess intercepts with her shield, sending teeth and blood soaring through the air as she bashes the serpent in the mouth.

Back at the town square, the remaining redcaps wade through a sea of minions to close with their targets. Two of them lunge for Dunir, and the other two attack Adran. One manages an auspicious hit, striking Dunir across the thigh. The other three miss wildly.

Orphis' jump checks succeed. I've moved him to a building closer to Chiomara, but if you'd rather him jump somewhere else, just say the word.

Two of Chiomara's attacks strike the banshrae, dealing a total of 7 damage. Only one of her infantrymen hits a redcap, dealing 2 damage. Her minions swarm the redcaps. Eight attacks hit, but only one manages to get any damage past the fey's damage reduction. One of the redcaps takes 1 point of damage from the rampage. No infantrymen manage to break free this round, but 6 of the minions do!

Then the redcaps go. The ones by Chiomara use their actions to get into position, but the ones near Wyrmbreaker and Dunir wade through the minions (difficult terrain is really slowing them down) and attack. Only one of them manages to hit. It strikes Dunir for 14 damage.

The the big snake fey thing goes. Chiomara needs to make two DC 21 Fort saves. It then summons a Huge Constrictor Snake, which fails miserably to hit Chiomara.

Dunir, you're up!

[silphael]

Dunir

Dunir, the Silvermaned Sentinel (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=582770)
Male LG Mythic Werelion Mythborn Human Belator 8, Level 8, Init 5, HP 74/88, Speed 30 feet
AC 22, Touch 11, Flat-footed 21, Fort 11, Ref 11, Will 6, Base Attack Bonus 8
+1 Greatsword +18 (4d6+10, )
Bite +18 (1d8+10, )
Heavy armor optimization taken into account +1 Fullplate (+10 Armor, +1 Dex, +1 Natural)
Abilities Str 22, Dex 20, Con 20, Int 18, Wis 10, Cha 12
Condition None

Laughing, this time, seeing his ennemies nearly broken, Dunir taunted them again into despair.

"Is that all you got? Well, if that's so you better stay down and dead!"

Again moving with the same speed, Dunir appears in three places at the same time. Two of those fleeting images barely moves, ensuring they stay in the middle of the fray, bashing the still standing redcaps, while the third wield his gigantic sword toward a third of those creatures before rushing to help the Princess.

Not like they cannot take care of the survivants, and that caster is troubling me...

As he finishes that thought, his duplicates dissipates, showing nothing but blood behind him. He better joins the other still fighting quick enough.

Well, as last turn (that part about belator having no need to recover maneuvers is insane ><) so basically Vanguard of One on Vanguard Feint of the nearest redcaps. The one that was already wounded has priority, and if he is down it trigger's Imperator's Warning. The duplicates stay there, while Dunir moves toward the other pack.

Dices are here! (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=20009159&postcount=46)

[JKTrickster]

Looking up, Zen saw Princess Archidamia rush down the street after the fleeing banshrae. Like lightning and thunder she fell upon her victim with a flurry of sword and shield. However before any of them could react, a massive serpent crawled out from the side and closed off the street. Without hesitation, Zen leaped forward into the danger - he did not wish to have his delay cause any more injuries or deaths today. These evil fae had taken innocent life and disrespected the memories of the Last Phoenix - he did not see any reason for mercy. Gritting his teeth and trying to steel his heart, Zen formed a small white cloud (http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_tVx8yEZcfU/TyCDk0QreEI/AAAAAAAAGYA/DkhTRYUIUDs/s1600/air_nimbus_by_teegketchen-d4faud1.jpg) at his feet to propel him over the massive pile of snakes.

Thrusting his palms forward in quick succession, he rained hellfire down on the weakened banshrae - each blow intending to kill. Not until he was done that he finally registered what the serpent had said and wondered briefly what he meant. Black Demon? Zen thought as his hands faltered. Had he ever heard that name before? His focus broken, Zen hesitated before striking the malevolent snake - at least at the very moment, Princess Archidamia had easily fended off its attacks. Squinting his eyes, Zen tried to assess exactly who or what this snake really was. With the banshrae dealt with, Zen's anger was placated and once again he hesitated before doing anything. He hoped he wouldn't regret it....again.



Zen, The Hand of the Phoenix (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=586867)
Male NG Gaean Child (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?433477-3-5-Mythos-quot-I-will-lead-you-to-the-Promised-Land-quot) Grey Elf Kathodos (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?301261-3-5-quot-I-have-mastered-the-Elements-a-thousand-times-in-a-thousand-lifetimes-quot&p=15947087), Level 8, Init 8, HP 75/75, DR N/A, Speed 40 ft. (Fly, Good)
AC 25, Touch 25, Flat-footed 17, Fort 16, Ref 16, Will 15, Base Attack Bonus +8/+3
- +1 Tiger Claw Discipline Unarmed Strikes +18/+13 (2d6+13, x2)
- Land-Strike Wrath +18/+13 (2d6+13, x2) 30 ft. range, 3 range increments
(+7 AC, Flow of Energy I Class Feature)
Abilities Str 10, Dex 26, Con 14, Int 24, Wis 10, Cha 10
Condition Shield of Air: Concealment against ranged attacks

Move Action: Fly 40 ft to reach as close as possible to the banshrae. If I understand correctly, I can get within 30 ft of the Banshrae and high enough to avoid the snakes right?

Standard Action: Light him on fire. (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=20015268&postcount=48) There's a crit in there - he should be cooked medium well.

Free Action: Knowledge checks everywhere! (Linked above) What is the snake talking about? Who is the snake? What's the meaning of life? :smalltongue:

[Kymme]

The burning village.

Dunir cuts down two of the redcaps where they stand and carves a deep furrow into the chest of a third with his last attack.

The banshrae looks Zen dead in the face as the firestorm descends upon it. With a final, feeble effort, the fey deflects the first attack. The second strike lands right between the banshrae's eyes and annihilates it. Scraps of burnt silk waft through the morning air, rising into the sky along with plumes of smoke.

His second two attacks strike at the evil serpent, searing its flesh. The monster hisses fiercely, coiling through the sky to protect itself.

This creature is called an Ajatarra. They are foul, repugnant fey that is known to inhabit deep forests. They are mothers to serpents, and are also able to spread plagues just by being looked at. They possess a poisonous bite that drains their victim's vitality, and they also have the thick skin and resistance to physical harm that comes common to most fey.
The Ajatarra implied that this being was an Avatar, and this wouldn't be the first Avatar to have taken the name "Demon". Infamous examples would be the Demon Sultan of Monolith, an ancient warlord who lives high in the Heaven's Edge mountains of the Southeastern Continent; as well as Laughing Demon, a rogue Avatar native to the Wastelands who is known to butcher entire caravans for the joy of reveling in her powers. This particular name, however, doesn't bring up any memories. You've never heard any stories about the Black Demon. Perhaps a new legend? You're familiar with other Avatars in the Okoryoshu Fiefdoms: Tylani Jetari, Ozerat the Lightning Duke, Logyle, but none of them have ever been called The Black Demon.
Chiomara succeeds on her first saving throw, but fails the second one. She contracts Filth Fever, taking 1 point of Dex damage and 1 point of Con damage. If you possess immunity to magical diseases/resistance to ability damage, factor those in. Mythos classes have lots of powers like that, so I'm not really sure how to adjudicate this sort of thing.

Dunir kills two of the redcaps and damages a third for 31damage.

Zen kills the banshrae and then strikes the Ajatarra with his last two attacks, dealing 36 damage in total. Also, since he looked at the Ajatarra, I'm going to need a Fortitude save from him.

Now we're on round 4. Wyrmbreaker, it's your go!

[manwithaplan]

Wyrmbreaker,
The Burning Village.


Wyrmbreaker (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=581730)
Lawful Good Mythborn Longsword Syntrofos, Level 8, Init 0, HP 60/60, DR Hardness 10, Speed -
AC 11, Touch 11, Flat-footed 11, Fort 6, Ref 6, Will 10, Base Attack Bonus +8/+3
Aptitude, Dragon Bane, Holy, Keen A Will Of My Own +17/+12 (2d6 + 6, 17-20/x2)
(+1 Size)
Abilities Int 18, Wis 18, Cha 20
Condition Projecting a Magic Circle Against Evil

Adran wasn't the most tactically minded of his friends. There were two Red Caps in front of him, so he'd kill them. He raised the Wyrmbreaker and nodded at it, immediately receiving a mental nod in return. With a yell he then moved in, swinging the sword about in an attempt to dismember and destroy the two minions as a show of honour to the Last Phoenix.

Adran Amakiir
Standard Action: Full Attack against the two Red Caps. I'll focus on one of them (doesn't matter which to me) until it goes down and then switch over.
Attack [roll0]
Damage [roll1]
Holy [roll2]

Attack [roll3]
Damage [roll4]
Holy [roll5]

Wyrmbreaker
Full-Round Action: Make a Full Attack, targeting the same as Adran.
Attack [roll6]
Damage [roll7]
Holy [roll8]

Attack [roll9]
Damage [roll10]
Holy [roll11]

[Kymme]

In the burning village.

Wyrmbreaker and his valiant wielder prove more than a match for the redcap squaring off against them. He is cut down in short order. His companion, now thoroughly outgunned and outmatched, hefts his scythe in a false show of bravado.

The Ajatarra raises its wings skyward and darts up to Zen. At the sight of the creature, every Avatar in its immediate presence feels their heart seized by sickness. It attempts to snap its jaws shut around the Avatar's leg, but its fangs find only clouds.

Below it, the massive serpent it conjured thrashes in vain against Chiomara's armor and shield.

The two unseen creatures take to the sky and flee, flying northeast.
Wyrmbreaker and its weilder's attacks slay another redcap. Now there is only one left, aside from the four that are currently closing on Chiomara. The Ajatarra and its summoned snake attack, but neither of them manages a hit.

I'm going to need Fort saves, DC 21, from Zen, Orphis, and Dunir. Adran isn't in line of sight, so he won't be affected. The Ajatarra has a gaze attack, and anybody who wants to can just close their eyes, gain the blinded condition, and subsequently become immune to the creature's gaze. (That's what all the villagers are doing, at any rate.)

Orphis, you're up!

[7th son of sons]

Orphis caught a glimpse of the shimmering tricksters fleeing from the battlefield. So be it. For the time being, only one creature occupied his mind space: The gruesome snake-thing that darted through the air as easily as a fish through water and had so obviously attempted to strike him with some sort of trickery. But his heart was long hardened to such meaningless offenses. Slamming his fists down, he sprinted towards the edge of the roof. Once he neared the ledge, he kicked out, his hands clasped above his head, attempting to spike the malicious fey creature into the dirt, where it would make for easy pickings for his brothers and sister.


Passed the Fortitude Save (yay!)
Leap Attacking off the roof, attempting to hit the Ajatarra out of the air. Jump Check 36, Attack Roll 21
Assuming that hits, the snakey takes 29 damage, and is subject to a bullrush as per God-Kicking Boot (Opposed Strength DC 37)

[NineOfSpades]

As the snakes fangs struck against her shield, Chiomara held the coiled beast at bay for a moment, a small grin on her face as she did so "A Scerpent? An ancient symbol of corruption, of being led astray. But I am above such notions, I cannot be swayed from my path." Pushing aside the creature, Chiomara witnessed the meteoric impact of the Ajatarra. It was vulnerable, so she descended upon it, on mighty hoof beats. "To me now, Strike down this creature with all your fury!" She called to her minions, who massed forward, surrounding the Ajatarra. Though weak, they struck with force, pestering and distracting the beast, needling away at its hide with the barbed spears that they carried. This was punctuated by Chiomara raining down strikes at the creature.

Upon the hill, Chiomara's servants continued to struggle with the vines. Those that were free were reading another volly, before Giblet signaled them to hold "Don't waste your arrows, there is better work to be done. Get the people to saftey before they are slain in the crossfire"



Her Royal Highness, Princess Chiomara Archidamia (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=593041http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=581548)
Female LN Mythborn Human Dinyomi (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?429524-quot-I-Refuse-No-Road-to-Power-quot-Mythic-3-5)/Anakitos (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?403561-3-5-quot-Hail-to-the-Gods-of-Creation-Hail-to-the-King-of-the-World-quot), Level 8, Init 0, HP 79/79, DR 11/-, Speed 30 (20ft with armor) AC 29, Touch 15, Flat-footed 29, Humbled 24, Fort 16, Ref 15, Will 16 (+ Unnatural Will/Indomitable Soul), Base Attack Bonus +8/+3
-Pure Adamantine Longsword +17/+12 (2d6+8, 19-20/x2)
-Pure Heavy Spiked Shield +17/+12 (1d6+8, x2)
-Pure Composite Longbow +17/+12 (1d8+8, x3) 110ft range
(+10 Armor, +4 Shield, +5 Untyped Pride)
Abilities Str 18, Dex 10, Con 16, Int 16, Wis 16, Cha 20
Condition None

Immediate action: Laugh of opportunity.
Swift Action: Instruct Minions to aid me in attacking the Ajatarra.
Horse will move over to where the Ajatarra landed.
Full round action: Full attack against the Ajatarra (which should be prone, and at -4 AC)

Half of the Minions Will use Aid Another to Improve my attack rolls, Half will use it to boost my defense.

Giblet will direct the Infantrymen to enter the village and evacuate the people to somewhere safe.

[Kymme]

Within the burning village.

Orphis' gambit succeeds, and the Ajatarra is sent screaming into the ground. It falls right into the midst of Chiomara's horde, and the Princess' attacks rain down upon it. Despite the overwhelming force of her minions and the Avatar's sheer power, the creature is only harmed slightly.

Meanwhile, the four redcaps that Chiomara turned her back on see their opportunity and take it: they vanish from sight in an explosion of fairy-dust. The one between Adran and Dunir vanishes as well, but it reappears beside the Silver-Maned Avatar and launches a quick scythe strike that the Avatar easily deflects. Its fellows do not reappear, however.

So, Orphis bull-rushes the crap out of the Ajatarra. It would be prone, except for the fact that it's a snake, and snakes can't really fall over. He and Chiomara's attacks damage it, but do not take it out.

Then the redcaps go. They all turn invisible through some esoteric means (Martial Lore check, DC 12 to find out what they did.) One launches an invisible attack at Dunir, which misses. The other four move somewhere out of sight. If anybody would like to roll a Spot check to figure out where they went, you may do so.

Dunir, you're up!

[silphael]

Dunir

Dunir, the Silvermaned Sentinel (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=582770)
Male LG Mythic Werelion Mythborn Human Belator 8, Level 8, Init 5, HP 74/88, Speed 30 feet
AC 22, Touch 11, Flat-footed 21, Fort 12, Ref 12, Will 7, Base Attack Bonus 8
+1 Greatsword +18 (4d6+10, )
Bite +18 (1d8+10, )
+1 Fullplate (+10 Armor, +1 Dex, +1 Natural)
Abilities Str 22, Dex 20, Con 20, Int 18, Wis 10, Cha 12
Condition None

As the redcaps disappeared with their glimmer, Dunir kept fighting the same way, as what fell armies fell monsters alike, so, once again, three Dunirs rush in different direction, smiting their ennemies with overwhelming strength, and once again all three roar in unison.

The last of the redcaps is hit again by Dunir's giant sword as the other Dunirs rush toward the snake, trying to apply the same tactic they used before : make it lower guard through fear.

"Snake, I'm gonna chop your head off!"

So, first, I'm gonna use the Ominous Presence boost. So I get +10 damage (not accounted on the rolls) against the redcaps, and I assume I'm getting only +5 against the snake, unless it is shaken, not accounted either. I'm not sure it's near enough, but the duplicates appear in an adjacent square, and I have 10 feet reach, so if it's less than 45 feet away I can get them. The redcaps may have an AoO, too, if he survives.

Dice post! (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=20036965&postcount=60)

[JKTrickster]

Zen barely managed to twist his body up and out of the way of the rushing Ajatarra before Orphis yanked the evil fey down to the world below. Taking in a deep breath, he tried to avert his gaze but still strike at the creature. However he simply was not used to such an indirect method of fighting and for a brief moment his eyes fell upon the Ajatarra's deadly gaze. A sickening feeling spread throughout his body, Zen decided to double down on his mistake and focus all of his anger and wrath on the enemy below. Taking in a deep breath, Zen rained fire down on his opponent, trying to squeeze out each and every moment that he could from his unfortunate windowing of opportunity. Fighting back the sickness from taking complete hold of him, Zen took the opportunity to make sure his strike landed true and hard - it didn't matter what this evil Fey had to do with other Avatars. Even if Zen could not know exactly who it was off the top of its head, the Ajatarra had already done enough to seal its own doomed fate; there was obviously no need for mercy today.


Zen, The Hand of the Phoenix (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=586867)
Male NG Gaean Child (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?433477-3-5-Mythos-quot-I-will-lead-you-to-the-Promised-Land-quot) Grey Elf Kathodos (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?301261-3-5-quot-I-have-mastered-the-Elements-a-thousand-times-in-a-thousand-lifetimes-quot&p=15947087), Level 8, Init 8, HP 75/75, DR N/A, Speed 40 ft. (Fly, Good)
AC 25, Touch 25, Flat-footed 17, Fort 16, Ref 16, Will 15, Base Attack Bonus +8/+3
- +1 Tiger Claw Discipline Unarmed Strikes +18/+13 (2d6+13, x2)
- Land-Strike Wrath +18/+13 (2d6+13, x2) 30 ft. range, 3 range increments
(+7 AC, Flow of Energy I Class Feature)
Abilities Str 10, Dex 26, Con 14, Int 24, Wis 10, Cha 10
Condition Shield of Air: Concealment against ranged attacks

Standard Action: Attack the beast. Rolls here. (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=20041029&postcount=61) Again, it's all fire damage.

[manwithaplan]

Adran sprinted in, heading to back up his team against the Ajatarra.

Sir Amakiir, avert your gaze! You will be afflicted if you perceive the creature directly.

How am I supposed to fight it then?

I will attack using your body.

...Wait, does that always happen?

It is a very common occurrence with Sir Halogalos.

Ha. Weird.

Feeling like an absolute idiot, Adran pulled up beside the beast as he strained his neck staring in the absolute opposite direction. Behind his back, he felt the Wyrmbreaker moving around and landing strikes, attacking in his stead somehow.

[Kymme]

At the village, as the flames begin to die.

"Is that all there is?" The Ajatarra lies still, immolated, impaled, and decapitated by King of Blades. Its small force of redcaps and other, more esoteric fey has been broken, their morale shattered by the force of the Avatars of the Last Pheonix. Despite its horrendous injuries, the serpent's disembodied head still speaks. "Your mercy is a cruel one, Avatars. The Black Demon forces us into the open where you may hunt us down. We are but worms beneath your feet, then? So be it! Know this, Avatars: my brethren will not take kindly to this. We will rise up from beneath the earth and devour this land from within. So say I..."

And then its jaws close, and its eyes become glassy and lifeless. The massive constrictor it conjured dissolves into a hundred little snakes, each crawling away in a different direction.

There is a silence, for a while, as the handful of remaining villagers poke their heads around corners and crawl from the rubble of their houses. They approach the Avatars, led by the young girl (http://41.media.tumblr.com/bd87a12ee6cf3bf82cd603aa0f1d9ed2/tumblr_nw9z5sbct01qee52wo1_1280.jpg) who tried to wield Wyrmbreaker. None dare speak, but many mouth voiceless prayers to the Last Phoenix, still known in this distant Fief.

OH MY GOD TALK ABOUT OVERKILL. The Ajatarra is dead and with it the hopes the fey had of succeeding. The redcaps use their opportunity to flee (Chio's legionnaires and Zen could probably chase them down if they wanted). And with that, the battle is over!

I wasn't keeping track of XP for character creation, and I have no intentions of doing so now. However, you all did a wonderful job defeating the fey, being glorious, and all around acting like Avatars. You each gain 500 Mythos Points, as tales of this deed will echo far and wide. This village is pretty much at your feet. What shall you do, O Avatars?

Also, it's still only a couple miles to Tylani Jetari's home.

[NineOfSpades]

With the battle won, Chiomara's eyes turned to the burning township. Reaching down from her steed, she took hold of the beasts head and held it aloft Giving a whistle, she summoned her forces to her. "Men, divide into two squads. Take one fist's worth of my minions, and set out with haste. Hunt down these fleeing cowards. Capture those you can and return with them, exterminate the rest. Giblet, Take the remaining forces, and put an end to these fires. Find and tend to the wounded, then we will begin rebuilding". Then, addressing the villigers, still likely cowering and frightened, she spoke out her proclamation. "Behold, the creature which brought ruin to your homes and death to your families. It lies now in pieces, and you face a crossroad. You may stand alone, and let your fate be decided by the whims of chance. How long before another beast arises with murder in its blackened heart? Or will you swear your fealty to me, and know the grace of my protection?" Kicking her heels into the side of her horse, Chiomara's steed reared up upon its hind legs, letting out a shrill whinny, as she stabbed her blade skyward. "WHAT SAY YOU?! Will you fall defending the false hopes of freedom which abandoned you to die, or will you live under the banner of Chiomara The Invincible?"



Chiomara uses Diplomacy (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=20056219&postcount=65) to rally the townspeople under her and convince them to swear allegiance to her.

Half of her forces (8 Infantrymen and 25 minions) are heading out to round up the remaining redcaps. The other half are staying to put out fires, tend to the injured, and generally help clean up the town.

[7th son of sons]

Orphis took a moment to step besides the snake-like creature, putting a hand to it before pressing down. Hard. As he raised his hand from the gore and viscera of the dead thing, where once were flesh and organs now was another vile, filthy humanoid beast, not too dissimilar to the 7 currently scrambling to return to their masters hate-field. Accompanying their approach was a murmer of praises, and for the first time in a while, Orphis allowed it, even going so far as to gently pat the head of the one called Insignificant-Scum. You did well, my servants. Perhaps when you fall, another fate will await you... He took up the freshly made demon-spawn in his hands, squeezing tight enough to prove all but inescapable to the squirming creature. You are mine now, Feculant-Waste. I am your lord, if you do not obey me, you will be ended. And without another thought, he released the creature, allowing it to scramble into place among the others, his own inane thoughts added to the cloud.

With a sigh, he turned around to see the villagers. No doubt a few of them have been within his hate field, and some of them had lost loved ones. It was his duty to console, and to bolster. He took a knee, his manes (with varying understanding of the acts signifigance or how to perform it) following suit. I am sorry for your losses, and I deeply regret being unable to save more of you. We are servants of The Last Phoenix, emissaries of her will, her strength made flesh and metal. For those of you who must mourn, know that I will mourn beside you. For those of who with anger, place it with me, and I shall carry it. And know that the protections offered by Chiomera ring true, but if you choose to remain free, it will not be held against you. Even in these dark times, we all must look for something to light the way.

I have a shneaky suspicion this snakey dude was Chaotic Evil, so I made a mane from him. If he wasn't, let me know, so I can undo that.

[manwithaplan]

"Ugh, got im'!" Ulfgar the dwarf had finished heaving Hamish's body through the crowd and somewhat carelessly dropped it at Adran's feet with a nod.

"Shame about wha'ever got the lad."

The elven thief knelt down, placing a hand on the unconscious warrior's sweaty brow.

"Yes, it was a good try, Hamish. Bad luck was all that got him."

Looking back up, he addressed the girl that had helped his cause.

"You did very well. Wyrmbreaker might want to...Oh, he does. Come here."

He held the sword out with its hilt toward the girl as it prepared to parley with her. Assuming that she came forward and accepted the hilt, it immediately spoke into her mind.

Your actions today, while infinitesimally small within the colossal conflict that occurred, have shown that you are worth the mettle of your pasture. The elf, the dwarf, and the unconscious human are all a part of my following, the Order of the Wyrmbreaker. Brave men and woman who are not possessed of the most valiant or noble blood, but nonetheless are willing to stand for what is right. I have already commented on your lower age, but there are no prerequisites in my fold. If you wish to travel with my brethren and I, and perhaps see some greater destiny, I will allow it. If not, I extend you warmest thanks and congratulations for your assistance.

[JKTrickster]

Zen was rather more aloof than the other Avatars - focusing on immediate dangers instead of talking to the people just yet. He wasn't uncaring - but he also recognized that the other Avatars were simply....better at talking to people than he was. Most people found his eyes unnerving anyway and he didn't want to strain their attention any more. Flying along the roof tops, Zen pulled the fire off of the buildings as he passed by. He breathed a breath of calm energy around him as he absorbed and abated the flames. He was careful to move the flames away from the burning houses instead of using water or wind to blow them out - he was afraid of doing any more damage to their homes. Only when he was finished did he finally touch down on the ground next to the other Avatars. Looking out, Zen expressed concern for the group that was sent after the Red Caps. "Should I go after them," he said as he looked as the group began to leave the town. If he rushed, he was sure he could catch up to them by flying overhead. But he hesitated and waited before acting; he knew that Princess Archimadia's pride would not be suffered lightly. Thinking carefully how to phrase his words, Zen scratched the back of his bald head before finally speaking. "The fey around this area probably dominate the woods to some extent. They might need someone to guide them in the wilderness."

There's no way that group you sent can take on the redcaps right? I feel like with the DR, it shouldn't even be possible...?

[NineOfSpades]

Chiomara spared a glance at the airborn monk, and contemplated for a very long moment, before answering "Do as you please, so long as what needs to be done is accomplished, and done with haste" she said somewhat dismissivly as she directed her attention back on the town and its people.

[silphael]

The aftermath of battles had never really been Dunir's cup of tea, but the last words of that thing kept him from losing interest. So that situation here wasn't an isolated case. If a battle had ended, he could have rested or started wandering, but that was the start of a war.

And that princess wants to take command here? What assets do they have? What can they bring you? More importantly, how can you defend them when they become associated with your name?

Although those thoughts were rotating in his mind, he knew pretty well not to discuss that right now. So, silently, he walked around the village, seeking places fit to set up defenses. Nothing elaborate, of course, but enough to buy time and anticipate the approach of ennemies. If the faes were to come back, how could the villagers fight them? Surely they would need some traps, fortifications, and probably some weapons anathema to the faes...

And we won't find anything fit to craft that kind of weapon here... before even talking about the kind of price such a village cannot pay. Impulsivity and leadership aren't combining well.

[Kymme]

"Behold, the creature which brought ruin to your homes and death to your families. It lies now in pieces, and you face a crossroad. You may stand alone, and let your fate be decided by the whims of chance. How long before another beast arises with murder in its blackened heart? Or will you swear your fealty to me, and know the grace of my protection?" Kicking her heels into the side of her horse, Chiomara's steed reared up upon its hind legs, letting out a shrill whinny, as she stabbed her blade skyward. "WHAT SAY YOU?! Will you fall defending the false hopes of freedom which abandoned you to die, or will you live under the banner of Chiomara The Invincible?"

I am sorry for your losses, and I deeply regret being unable to save more of you. We are servants of The Last Phoenix, emissaries of her will, her strength made flesh and metal. For those of you who must mourn, know that I will mourn beside you. For those of who with anger, place it with me, and I shall carry it. And know that the protections offered by Chiomara ring true, but if you choose to remain free, it will not be held against you. Even in these dark times, we all must look for something to light the way.

A murmur passes through the crowd. The people are weary, injured, and frightened. The Princess' words ignite their spirits, and Orphis' voice calms them. Like a wave, the assembled villagers drop to their knees, prostrating before the Princess. They press their foreheads to the ground in reverence. Those that know the old prayers or remember the songs begin to sing, their fellows joining in with wavering voices. Some cry, some laugh, but all bow before the glorious Princess Chiomara.

All but one. The black-haired girl payed Princess Chiomara no heed. Where her people stood still she moved, crossing the gulf between herself and the Avatars. She placed her hand on Wyrmbreaker's hilt solemnly, eyes closed.


Your actions today, while infinitesimally small within the colossal conflict that occurred, have shown that you are worth the mettle of your pasture. The elf, the dwarf, and the unconscious human are all a part of my following, the Order of the Wyrmbreaker. Brave men and woman who are not possessed of the most valiant or noble blood, but nonetheless are willing to stand for what is right. I have already commented on your lower age, but there are no prerequisites in my fold. If you wish to travel with my brethren and I, and perhaps see some greater destiny, I will allow it. If not, I extend you warmest thanks and congratulations for your assistance.

"There is nothing for me here. I will gladly serve you, Wyrmbreaker. I will fight bravely so that no one else will have to suffer this way. I give you my word as Arloste of Jianti. My life is yours."

Hamish begins to awaken as Chiomara's forces rush past, Zen in tow. They comb the area, searching the nearby forests for any sign of the retreating redcaps. They manage to find one and incapacitate it with a hail of arrows, spears, and fire. The others elude them, vanishing into the depths of the forest.

Dunir's exploration reveals that the village has a bit of infrastructure in the form of a few wells and central stone building with a large walled courtyard. The owner of this large building (no doubt a petty noble of some kind) has been torn to bloody shreds on his doorstep. His guardsmen, a half-dozen armored soldiers, lie dead inside the walls of the courtyard. Their bodes are covered in oozing sores and poxes, no doubt caused by the Ajatarra's plague-spreading gaze.

Diplomacy DC Calculation (I'm using Rich Berlew's DC calculator, cause it's way better.): 15 (base) + 3 (highest leveled villager) + 2 (highest wisdom mod) - 5 (Chiomara is an Avatar of the Last Phoenix, for god's sakes. Even in a post-Phoenix world where the Avatars have faded from the spotlight, her words still carry weight.) + 0 (basically trading one lord for another) = a final DC of 15. Welp. Chio wins in a landslide.

I'm going to skip over the search for the redcaps. With Chiomara's troops creating difficult terrain and Zen raining fire from above, it should be easy enough to catch one of them. The others probably took that opportunity to scram. On the upside, Chiomara didn't lose any troops.

[7th son of sons]

Orphis returned to his feet, standing at his full height. He bowed his head in return to the amassed villagers. I will stay this night, to ensure that no returning forces seek retribution for todays actions. In the morning, I shall leave behind my servants, and we will meet with another Avatar. With faith, they will have some way of aiding us in ensuring you are defended. He put his fist over his heart. I assure you, this struggle will not be in a vain. If I may impose, have you anywhere where an old guard can take post?

[JKTrickster]

Zen returned to the village with the captured redcap in tow. Or at least, the rest of Princess Archimadia's soldiers had the fey creature bound and limping behind them as Zen flew high above. He sailed through the wind and air on a ivory white cloud beneath his feet. As he neared the village, Zen's cloud slowly dissipated around his as he softly glided back to earth. Zen landed softly, barely disturbing the dust beneath his feet as he approached all of the Avatars gathered in the middle of the village. Dunrir had just finished his rounds around the village and Princess Archimadia was still commanding the fealty of her new subjects. Rubbing his bald head, Zen made his greetings to the other Avatars and disclosed that they had managed to capture one of the fleeing redcaps. Upon hearing everyone's plan, Zen nodded in affirmation. "We must certainly protect this village," he said to all of the Avatars gathered there. "We should perhaps leave our followers behind to begin building fortifications. If we rush, we can meet up with Tylani Jetari in only a few hours and make it back here before night even falls." Truth be told, Zen had his own agenda to meet with Tylani as soon as possible. The Ajatarra's last words still rung in his mind and haunted his every thought. It was honestly why he took the rare opportunity to go on the offensive and hunt down the redcap - he had to know what the Ajatarra was referring to as it died. It could be the harmless death throes of a doomed enemy but the timing of all of these events were just too coincidental for him to ignore.

"While we cannot ensure that Tylani can lend her aid to these villagers, at least she should know about the dark fey and their activities in her area," he continued as he mused on for a little bit. "Isn't it coincidental? As we move towards Tylani and her call out for our aid, the dark fey are threatening to amass and strike us down. Could this be part of the threat that she needed our assistance for?" But there was little point to Zen's musing - none of them had ever met Tylani before and honestly none of them could be any of the wiser. "But now that we have this redcap captured, can we put him away for now or should we bring him to Tylani?" Zen finally stopped talking as he looked expectantly at the others, waiting for their response.

[NineOfSpades]

"Indeed" Responded Chiomara, acknowledging the validity of Zen's suggestion. "We shall depart post haste, as soon as I've had a word with the prisoner." Stepping off her steed, Chiomara strode towards the approaching division of her forces, and the bound Red Cap. One gauntlet clad hand seized the creature by its throat, holding it fast in a vice grip, eyes smoldering like embers as she gazed at the gangly fey. "You will tell me everything you know, and do so with haste. Who sent you to attack this place? What was your objective in doing so? What do you know of this so-called 'Black Demon' of which the serpent spoke?" Pulling the Creature closer, so that it had no choice but to look onto the Avatar's face, she continued, her words a whisper that bordered on an Beastly Growl. "And before any thoughts of falsehood or deception enter that filthy lump you call a mind, know this. You have witnessed only the tiniest fraction of my wrath this day. If you do not provide me with the information I seek, then your entire exsistance will be reduced to a single, eternal moment of anguish, one without escape or release. So, speck, give me the answers I seek" Chiomara softened her grip enough to allow the Redcap to speak. Behind the Avatar, her minions sharpened their weapons and twitched eagerly, waiting for the order to descend upon the Redcap.



Intimidate (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?451434-Avatars-of-the-Last-Pheonix-Dicey-Business&p=20082098#post20082098) was not what I was hoping for, unfortunately. But we'll see how it plays out. Thankfully a Natural 1 isn't an auto-fail on skill checks.

[7th son of sons]

Hmm, so we move out today then. Very well. Orphis turned his gaze to his minions, all but the freshest scrambling onto the Dreadnought. Verminous-Dreg quickly took after its fellows, clinging on to the sentinel as he again bowed his head to the villagers. Rest assured, your protection will come. But for now, we must meet with another of our family. Be safe, and be strong, for we will return. He now cast his gaze on the imprisoned Red Cap, his face sneering with disdain, but Chiomera had her motivations, so the creature would live... for now. Information was certainly a valuable tool.

[Kymme]

"So, speck, give me the answers I seek"

“We… we was chased. Pixies ‘n satyrs ‘n dryads chased us from our Barrens. Led by the Black Demon, they was. Big snake took charge. Says we need food n’ things, so we have to take ‘em. Came here ‘n you lot showed up. Avatars, just like the Black Demon. A right iconoclast, she is. Breakin’ the old pacts between the Okoryoshu faeries. We lot used to be safe back in our Barrens, then you lot came around and started wreckin’ the place.” The redcap’s confidence begins to return, and the corners of its mouth turn up in a little grin. It tries to laugh, but Chiomara’s vicegrip makes every breath painful. “Avatars, bah! Fools, runnin’ around thinkin’ you own the ‘ole world!”


Rest assured, your protection will come. But for now, we must meet with another of our family. Be safe, and be strong, for we will return.

The villagers nod solemnly to Orphis, sending prayers of thanks drifting up into the midday air. It’s only been an hour or two since the battle, and the sun crests high in the sky. The forest is quiet once more, and the path ahead to Tylani’s home beckons.

You meet her on the road, a mere hour later. Tylani Jetari (http://orig05.deviantart.net/3247/f/2015/149/7/d/wuxia_by_rororei-d8v66oq.jpg) is an unassuming Avatar, with plain white robes and simple braided hair. Her retinue, however, is an imposing mob of wildlife. At its edges birds flutter from tree to tree, chirping back and forth. Foxes and wildcats dart from one side of the road to the other, while spotted deer trot along nonchalantly. In the center, Tylani herself sits cross-legged atop a stag of immense proportions (http://www.wizards.com/mtg/images/daily/ld/ld45_stagSplash.jpg). It is easily larger than most horses, and its antlers span nearly the width of the road. Its eyes glow with a white radiance and its tail stretches back in a long, tapering whip.

A mixture of excitement and distress paint the lady Avatar’s face, and she calls out to the party with an anxious voice. “What has happened? I spied smoke in the distance, and I knew the village resided beneath it. They sent no messengers and I fear the worst. Please tell me, do the villagers of Jianti still live?”

[NineOfSpades]

“Avatars, bah! Fools, runnin’ around thinkin’ you own the ‘ole world!”

Chiomara's grip tightened at this comment, choking off the words even as they were spoken. "True, I do not own the whole of the world. Not yet. But I defy you to name another living soul who has the right to claim that throne. You call me a fool? I will only be such a thing should I fail in my ambitions". With a flick of her wrist, Chiomara tossed the Redcap aside, throwing the fay to the earth. "Leave this one bound and gagged, and assign a guard detail. I will have need of him yet, I think. Avoid killing him, unless he attempts to free himself. Maintain order here, and await my return". Remounting her steed, Chiomara united with the other avatar's and departed for their meeting.


“What has happened? I spied smoke in the distance, and I knew the village resided beneath it. They sent no messengers and I fear the worst. Please tell me, do the villagers of Jianti still live?”

"Well Met, Tylani" Greeted Chiomara, in a tone that was perfunctory, but not antagonistic. "They live, and will rebuild. We arrived in time to avert their demies, though it was not without a few losses. They found themselves best by fay from the forest. Interrogation revealed that the assalents were driven by fear of some creature or warlord which wears the name of The Black Demon."

[7th son of sons]

A mixture of excitement and distress paint the lady Avatar’s face, and she calls out to the party with an anxious voice. “What has happened? I spied smoke in the distance, and I knew the village resided beneath it. They sent no messengers and I fear the worst. Please tell me, do the villagers of Jianti still live?”

Orphis nodded politely to the girl, simultaneously ordering his minions to his shadow, that they may not disturb the natural life around them. His often solemn voice betrayed a hint of his own excitement in meeting with a new Avatar. We come bearing mostly good news, sister. The town was under siege by malevolent creatures. Fortunately we arrived in time to quell the fighting, and save many of the villagers. In fact, we were hoping that you may be able to provide us with aid in keeping them safe.

[silphael]

As Dunir approached the small animals, most of them stopped moving, and some took some steps back, until he spoke to them :

"Fear not, friends of my friend, for you aren't my preys anymore : what I'm hunting now are the scourge of this lands..."

That taken care of, he turned toward Tylani and her stag - her yummt st- and spoke again :

"That "Black Demon" seems to have taken quite a number of creatures of the woods under his orders, as the redcaps were pushed by pixies and dryads... I find that odd, they aren't the kind to bow to any liege that easily."

[Kymme]

"They live, and will rebuild. We arrived in time to avert their demise, though it was not without a few losses. They found themselves best by fay from the forest. Interrogation revealed that the assailants were driven by fear of some creature or warlord which wears the name of The Black Demon."

A wave of relief passes over Tylani. "Oh, thank the Phoenix! ...And her Avatars." She laughs sheepishly, covering her mouth with one hand as her eyes flutter from face to face among the Avatars assembled before her. "Sorry, um... Oh, where are my manners?!" She clears her throat, signaling the animals that frolic at her mount's feet to stay still. "My name is Tylani Jetari. I have many other names, as I'm sure you all know, but I'd like it very much if you called me by that name. I've sent out a summons to every Avatar who still looks into the open sky, and you five are the first to arrive. I welcome you; Zen, The Hand Of The Phoenix; Dunir, The Silvermaned Sentinel; Wyrmbreaker, The King Of Blades; Orphis Seigvaria, The Hell-Forged Defender; and Her Royal Highness, Princess Chiomara Archidamia, The Invincible."


We come bearing mostly good news, sister. The town was under siege by malevolent creatures. Fortunately we arrived in time to quell the fighting, and save many of the villagers. In fact, we were hoping that you may be able to provide us with aid in keeping them safe.

"That "Black Demon" seems to have taken quite a number of creatures of the woods under his orders, as the redcaps were pushed by pixies and dryads... I find that odd, they aren't the kind to bow to any liege that easily."

Her expression quickly darkens at mention of the Black Demon. "I know of this creature. They are an Avatar of the Last Phoenix, and kin to us. My friends among the Okoryoshu faeries have told me of their contact with The Black Demon, but I had no idea it has gone this far. I've been told that The Black Demon possesses a demeanor that... brooks no disagreement. If she's managed to convince the faeries to abandon their old pacts, then it most certainly means that the destruction of the evil fey is at hand. Only... that's not what they're doing, is it? If it was, then Jianti wouldn't have been attacked. This is troubling news, indeed." She glances southward, in the direction she came. "I would suggest that we return to my home, but considering what has happened, I think that it would be best if I spent the night in Jianti. The villagers need our help. Lead on, my brothers and sister."

[manwithaplan]

Back in command of the blade, but still somewhat tempered by his quick defeat, Hamish at first felt unworthy to commune with the new Avatar. Shaking his head, he got over himself; if he didn't say anything, Wyrmbreaker would tell him to anyway.

"Of course! We'll head back at once, miss Tylani. I'm Hamish, of the Order of the Wyrmbreaker, and these are several of the weapons' other companions. In order of rank, they are Adran, Ulfgar, and Arloste."

[Kymme]

"Of course! We'll head back at once, miss Tylani. I'm Hamish, of the Order of the Wyrmbreaker, and these are several of the weapons' other companions. In order of rank, they are Adran, Ulfgar, and Arloste."

Tylani smiles. "Well met, Hamish and company. I appreciate your bravery in assisting these Avatars in their work."

And with that the party makes its way back to Jianti. They find the village as they left it, save for a few small barricades scattered around the village. Chiomara’s minions and Legionnaires, as well as the men and women of fighting age, stand ready at the barricades, with the remainder of the villagers crowded into the brick mansion in the town center. The dead have been carried away, burned in homage to the Last Phoenix.

In a display of her Phoenixian Magic, Tylani summons forth a trio of unicorns and sends them to heal the injured and cure the sick. She then turns towards her fellow Avatars and speaks. “I thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for answering my plea. I would have liked to speak back at my home, where prying eyes cannot see us, but I feel that the matter is much too important to wait. Come with me.”

She leads her fellow Avatars to the top of the ridgeline, overlooking the village of Jianti. The very same ridgeline that they crested just this morning. The sun is setting, and the village is all but shrouded in darkness. Tylani dismisses her phantom stag and sits down, legs folded.

“The Wyrmborn are coming back.” Her words are blunt. “I don’t know how, and I don’t know when, but they’re coming. And they’re bringing a Flight with them. They’ll rise up from the south, from the Fallen Land, and they’ll turn the Okoryoshu Fiefdoms into a field of splinters and ash when they are finished.” She sighs, casting her eyes downwards. “Then they’ll turn their sights on the rest of the world, and descend upon the Southeastern Continent and destroy it, too.”

“I’ve never fought against a Flight before. Aside from Wyrmbreaker, none of us have. During the Wyrm War, the only thing that could stand against a Flight was a full army of Avatars.” She looks up. “And that’s what we have to do. I sent out my summons to every Avatar that I could, but for every Avatar that ventures this way there are four that do not care. You all have shown your strength and your determination, and I mean no disrespect when I say: you and I will not be enough. If we are to stand against the Flight, and the Wyrmborn that will come in its wake, we must be many. So I ask you, my fellow Avatars of the Last Phoenix: Will you help me save the world?”

This is information you all know, so no Knowledge checks or anything like that are required.

The Wyrmborn are stratified into four tiers: Least, which includes only the Drakelings (http://i1231.photobucket.com/albums/ee508/Kymme777/Mythos%20Campaign/Drakeling%201_zpsvzkraa3o.jpg): the footsoldiers of the Wyrms, the smallest and weakest of their armies; Lesser, in which dwell the Brutes (http://i1231.photobucket.com/albums/ee508/Kymme777/Mythos%20Campaign/Brute%203_zpsybww8vds.jpg), the Shriekers (http://i1231.photobucket.com/albums/ee508/Kymme777/Mythos%20Campaign/Shrieker%202_zpsnls99pdg.jpg), and the Ravagers (http://i1231.photobucket.com/albums/ee508/Kymme777/Mythos%20Campaign/Ravager%204_zps1kqej5ed.jpg): they are the Wyrm’s cavalry, quick moving, unintelligent monsters that seek only to destroy; Greater is the home of elite soldiers capable of matching the prowess of an Avatar: the Landsknecht (http://i1231.photobucket.com/albums/ee508/Kymme777/Mythos%20Campaign/Landsknecht%201_zpsj648purp.jpg), the Psykers (http://i1231.photobucket.com/albums/ee508/Kymme777/Mythos%20Campaign/Psyker%201_zps4ynsplyj.jpg), Nemeses (http://i1231.photobucket.com/albums/ee508/Kymme777/Mythos%20Campaign/Nemesis%201_zpsk3tb2r9h.jpg), and the Juggernauts (http://i1231.photobucket.com/albums/ee508/Kymme777/Mythos%20Campaign/Juggernaut%202_zpscvyxhxnt.jpg); finally, there is the Abhorrent Tier: the domain of the Dragons (http://i1231.photobucket.com/albums/ee508/Kymme777/Mythos%20Campaign/Dragon%206_zpsachxwb8x.jpg). Combining the martial prowess of a Landsknecht, the reality-warping power of a Psyker, the shape-shifting cunning of a Nemesis, and the physical size of a Juggernaut, Dragons are the greatest weapons the the Wyrm’s arsenal. They are extremely intelligent, the strongest of them matching even Phoenixes in power.

A ‘Flight’ is the expression used to refer to a group of dragons, from two to ten, working together to achieve some goal for their Wyrm creators.

[7th son of sons]

In a display of her Phoenixian Magic, Tylani summons forth a trio of unicorns and sends them to heal the injured and cure the sick. She then turns towards her fellow Avatars and speaks. “I thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for answering my plea. I would have liked to speak back at my home, where prying eyes cannot see us, but I feel that the matter is much too important to wait. Come with me.”

She leads her fellow Avatars to the top of the ridgeline, overlooking the village of Jianti. The very same ridgeline that they crested just this morning. The sun is setting, and the village is all but shrouded in darkness. Tylani dismisses her phantom stag and sits down, legs folded.

“The Wyrmborn are coming back.” Her words are blunt. “I don’t know how, and I don’t know when, but they’re coming. And they’re bringing a Flight with them. They’ll rise up from the south, from the Fallen Land, and they’ll turn the Okoryoshu Fiefdoms into a field of splinters and ash when they are finished.” She sighs, casting her eyes downwards. “Then they’ll turn their sights on the rest of the world, and descend upon the Southeastern Continent and destroy it, too.”

“I’ve never fought against a Flight before. Aside from Wyrmbreaker, none of us have. During the Wyrm War, the only thing that could stand against a Flight was a full army of Avatars.” She looks up. “And that’s what we have to do. I sent out my summons to every Avatar that I could, but for every Avatar that ventures this way there are four that do not care. You all have shown your strength and your determination, and I mean no disrespect when I say: you and I will not be enough. If we are to stand against the Flight, and the Wyrmborn that will come in its wake, we must be many. So I ask you, my fellow Avatars of the Last Phoenix: Will you help me save the world?”

Orphis stood closest to the ridgeline, looking over the village. So many innocent lives caught in the crossfire of a war they could not know. Drops of water in the scheme of things, each with a story, a life, a family. Ready to be eradicated by the Return of the Wyrmborn without reason or cause. There were no Phoenix's left to defend them. Their lives would be forfeit without their efforts. Fate had cast the die, and now the ball was in their court. Could they truly stand by and let all these people be eradicated? Could they sit back idle and let all they had worked for become ash in the wind. Such a prospect nearly made the brass colossus chuckle. Of course they could not. They were the Phoenix' will, and the mother he had known would have allowed for no such thing.

Looking over his shoulder, he nodded. I will, Sister Tylani. Though The Mother's flames have dimmed, her light is still within us. It is our obligation to do what we can to stand against these foulest of enemies. Together, as family. It is not blood that binds us, it is the cause. And what greater cause is their than this?

[manwithaplan]

A golden spark of light crackled through Wyrmbreaker's form at the first use of the word 'Wyrmborn', making Hamish flinch. He felt the sword continue to rumble all through Tylani's speech until, as she finished, the sword spoke aloud as it rarely did.

"As long as there stands one man in this world that will take up my hilt, I will be nothing else more than ready to fight those foul abominations."

[JKTrickster]

When Zen first laid eyes on Tylani, he found himself unable to utter more than a polite greeting and a nod of his head. He had heard many tales and accomplishments of The Moonlight Lady. In her presence, Zen resigned himself to complete silence while his other friends boisterously talked and chatted with their new Avatar ally. To be fair, he was intently listening throughout the conversation, his attention never wavering between Tylani and his friends. It wasn't that Zen felt like he had nothing to say or contribute, but he naturally hesitated and let the others talk. However, he already felt that his friends had already mentioned almost all of his concerns; there was not much for him to ask that would seem repetitive or petty. So, Zen took a deep breath and hurried along the others as they went back towards the town. At the very least, the might of several Avatars would be able to fortify the town in no time.

Throughout the day, as Tylani's unicorns healed the injured and sick, Zen helped the villagers raise barricades and fortifications. Bending and shaping the earth to his very will, Zen help them construct a rudimentary wall that connected some of the damaged buildings that laid around the periphery of the town. He hoped he could create a small blockade that would funnel any would-be attackers into small choke-points, so the defenders would have an easier time handling their foes. Just as he finished moving the last bits and pieces, he heard Tylani gather the Avatars on the ridge of the valley.

Flying up, he gracefully landed next to his fellow brethren. Hearing Tylani's speech moved him - and Zen already had plenty of reasons to die protecting the Okoryoshu Fiefdoms. Looking at the others, he could feel a sense of approval spreading between all of them. After all they had agreed to come so far - they all bore the light of the great Last Phoenix - why would they ever back down from slaying the Wrymborn? Nodding along with the others, Zen finally added his voice to the mix. "It would be an honor to join all of you," he said softly. Even though he lacked the flowery words the others used, Zen was no less firm in his devotion to the cause and that showed through in his voice. No matter how gentle, there was an air of finality in what he was about to say. "Even if we do not stand a chance, we will bring that Flight of the Wyrmborn down first."

[silphael]

Laugh. For some time that was all Dunir could do, that, and smile. At first quite odd, his laugh quickly became oddly refreshing.

"And here I thought I would die of old age! Whatever we're facing, I will keep fighting, for what I fear the most is boredom. That is the only real death we should fear, slowly forgetting what it was to fight for All That Is."

Once he finishes his sentences, he keeps smiling.

[NineOfSpades]

In silence, Chiomara listened, gripping the hilt of her blade. She listened as the Moonspeaker unveiled the dire threats which loomed upon the horizon. And Throne-Breaker did not say a word, simply tightening her grip on the blade, the only outward sign of the tension which was building within her. To face the dragons was the ultimate duty of an Avatar, and it was one she had no qualms about upholding. However, to ascribe her a sense of obligation towards the Phoenix, or towards her fellow avatars, was a more complex matter. From the time of her birth, Chiomara had held a singular belief, that the world belonged to those with the strength to claim it. To that end, she had built a castle of steel around her heart, transforming her very will into a blade that would cleave a path towards tomorrow, a future in which it was her hand which gripped the reigns of civilization. She would face this flight, alone if she must, or beside whoever bowed their head and pledged to serve. If Tylani wished to raise an army, then it would require a Warrior-Queen to stand at its helm.

With a mad smile, Chiomara threw her head back and laughed towards the heavens "Good, I've waited long enough for those cowardly serpents to slither out from whatever rock they'd hidden. At last, I've found a foe worthy of my skills." Her words were enflamed: The Lioness was actually excited by the prospect of facing the flight "If an army is needed, then I will raise one. The very land will be transfromed into an engine of war if need be. And any avatar who refuses to serve will be made to kneel at my feet and submit, or be broken, as is the fate of all who would oppose my ambitions!"

[7th son of sons]

Laugh. For some time that was all Dunir could do, that, and smile. At first quite odd, his laugh quickly became oddly refreshing.

"And here I thought I would die of old age! Whatever we're facing, I will keep fighting, for what I fear the most is boredom. That is the only real death we should fear, slowly forgetting what it was to fight for All That Is."

Once he finishes his sentences, he keeps smiling.

For the first time in years, Orphis Siegvaria, The Metaline Sentinel, the living Juggernaut of Brass, he who stood before a hoard of demons as a literal beacon of Evil and Chaos, laughed. It was deep, hollow, and throaty, but a laugh all the same. I suppose the saying holds true, brother. There should be no shame or fear of death be it for the cause of the Mother. I will stand besides you to the bitter end, Dunir. He waved an arm out to the rest of them. Besides all of you, so long as the fight shall go. Metaphorically, of course. He added, noting to the almost palpable aura of bitter hatred and vileness surrounding him.

[Kymme]

I will, Sister Tylani. Though The Mother's flames have dimmed, her light is still within us. It is our obligation to do what we can to stand against these foulest of enemies. Together, as family. It is not blood that binds us, it is the cause. And what greater cause is their than this?


"As long as there stands one man in this world that will take up my hilt, I will be nothing else more than ready to fight those foul abominations."


"Even if we do not stand a chance, we will bring that Flight of the Wyrmborn down first."


"And here I thought I would die of old age! Whatever we're facing, I will keep fighting, for what I fear the most is boredom. That is the only real death we should fear, slowly forgetting what it was to fight for All That Is."


"If an army is needed, then I will raise one. The very land will be transfromed into an engine of war if need be. And any avatar who refuses to serve will be made to kneel at my feet and submit, or be broken, as is the fate of all who would oppose my ambitions!"

Tylani smiles, eyes shining with joy. “It will be a great honor to fight alongside you all when the time comes. Tomorrow we can begin assembling this army. Until then, however, we should rest. I’ve no doubt it’s been a long day for you and the village of Jianti. I will see you all when the sun rises.” The Moonspeaker stands and begins descending towards the village. She beckons for her fellow Avatars to follow her.

Those of you who require sleep find that it comes easy tonight, despite the grim tidings that Tylani has brought. The village settles down around you (Save for Chiomara’s minions, who stand resolute beneath the night sky.) as the townspeople retire.

The stars watch silently from above.

When the sun rises, you all find that Tylani is already awake, pacing back and forth at Jianti’s southern edge. As you arrive she perks up, summoning forth her phantom stag. It trots out from the forest regally, coming to stand beside its summoner.

“I’d like to take you to my home, if that is alright. Most of my equipment is there, along with several maps and scrolls that I’ve managed to scrape together over the past few months. I’m sure that they’ll be vital to our efforts. What say all of you?”

[Kymme]

On the Southern Road

The journey to Tylani’s house goes by in a flash. As you get closer and closer the trees around you begin to shrink, going from proud oak to short sagebrush. Tylani’s train of animals begins to thin as well, returning to their homes within the wood. When you begin to hear the ocean, the forest is merely a dark line stretching across the northern horizon. You stand on a grassy slope high above the Middle Sea, stretching onwards east and west in an all-too-perfect straight line.

Tylani’s home (http://www.terrariaonline.com/attachments/233312-the-lighthouse-b-jpg.39250/) sits before you. A lighthouse of pale stone sits atop a rocky crag, connected to the mainland by thin bridges of rope and wood. A mass of scaffolding coils around the spire like a snake climbing a tree. Nets of flowers hang down across the upper scaffolding, shining in the noonday sun.

“Welcome to my home! It’s… not much, by any means, but it has enough space for all of you to stay and rest. Not to imply that there will be time to rest, however! We have a lot to do and not much time to do it. Follow me!”

Tylani leads you all across the sturdiest of the bridges and into her home. The bottom floor of the lighthouse consists of a large, high-ceilinged room with scant furnishings along the outer walls. A metal spiral staircase dominates the center of the room, and Tylani disappears up it. She emerges a few moments later with a heap of books, scrolls, notes, and maps piled in her arms. She sets them down gingerly on a clean patch of floor and steps back.

“This,” she explains, “is everything I could find concerning the remaining Avatars. By my calculations, there are about one thousand of us scattered across the continents. This room--” her eyes move from face to face as she speaks. “--contains the highest density of Avatars in the entire world. I think we’re off to a good start!”

“Now, there are three Avatars famous to the Okoryoshu Fiefdoms: Ozerat the Lightning Duke, Logyle, and this ‘Black Demon’. I have no information on the Black Demon, but I know her current whereabouts are somewhere around here.” She points to a location on the closest map she can find. "Then there is Ozerat, who serves the royal family of Thunderhome. He’s here. After that is Logyle. He’s up here. There are also Avatars in the Riverlands and the Wastes, but getting to them will be a little harder. Where do you all think we should start?”

And it is here that we reach a great forking path. Many sandbox games boil down to "guess the key to the DM's puzzle," but I'm not having any of that. There is no "correct" answer to the question of where the party should go. Your characters know some things about the other Avatars in the Okoryoshu Fiefdoms, and you can feel free to make Knowledge (Religion?... for Logyle. Ozerat would use Arcana) to check and see if you know any more about them. With the info that Tylani has, anybody who makes a Knowledge check gets a free +2 bonus.

A goliath blessed by the Phoenixes power, Logyle is a folk hero among the people of the Crumbled Mount. Thrice he has protected them from warlords who wish to mine the precious ores from their land, and thrice has he defeated wandering monsters that threatened the innocent people.
Logyle spurns the use of weaponry, preferring to fight his battles barehanded. He is a paragon of fighting skill, easily able to best mortal opponents. As an Internal Avatar, his personal narrative is one of profound strength...
...and unrelenting anger. Logyle keeps his fury well hidden, but any Avatar can see it there, boiling beneath his skin like something inhuman. The fire of the Phoenix burns brightly within Logyle’s breast. Much too brightly. It makes him a force to be reckoned with, but his power also makes him dangerous and unpredicable.
The Lightning Duke is famous amongst the common people of the Storming Peninsula. He rides upon the howling winds of the storm, soaring high above the clouds. He is a defender of the common people, using his powers to destroy armies with thunder and electricity. He is an Avatar of the Last Phoenix who has sworn to protect the Storming Plateau in the years following the Last Phoenix’s death.
Ozerat, as he prefers to be called, is an External Avatar with a bent towards the elements. He has taken up residence in a part of the Okoryoshu Fiefdoms called the Storming Peninsula, which makes sense, considering the place was named after his trademark powers. Ozerat is held in high esteem by many of the mortal lords in the fiefdoms along that Peninsula, for his favor leads to good weather. He lives a life of luxury, having gained quite a profit (and a dutchy) in gifts from nobles desperate for his assistance.
Ozerat is a great Avatar, though not quite as powerful as the Avatars of the Wyrm War. He possesses a great deal of magical strength, enough to teleport himself and others long distances.

Also, here (https://docs.google.com/drawings/d/1dCfSDGt30mzcV-giE0ClTdKMgIuT17InBd6rz_KCYB4/edit?usp=sharing) is the map. I've updated the locations and stuff.

[NineOfSpades]

The choice was obvious to Chiomara, who listened as her host spoke, though she had already made up her mind before they'd even arrived. The choice was obvious, really. But acting without gaining all available information was the road to ruin and downfall, so she indulged The Moonspeaker's whims, and would continue to do so until she felt it counter to her own agenda. "There is no sense to be had in racing off to distant lands when another avatar is upon our doorstep. This black demon has already proven strong enough to drive the local fey from their land, and should be strong enough then to serve our needs. Further, these lands are serving as a bastion for us, at least until such time as a proper stronghold can be established. Only a fool would leave while an enemy still lurks here." There was neither any doubt in her words, nor indication that what she had said was open for discussion. As far as Chiomara was concerned, she'd handed down the marching orders and was expecting the others to fall in line. Those that refused would be doing so in defiance of her superior strategic abilities, and would need to be shown the error of their ways.

Mulling over the other documents a moment, The Princess continued "Following that matter, which I imagine will be settled swiftly, we should ride for the Storming Peninsula. Ozerat's magic is sufficient to carry us across the land in an instant. With his force joined to ours, we can reach Thunderhome in an instant. I've no knowledge of this Logyle, but more important that whatever might he may bring to bare is the backing of a nation. In the wyrms, they'll have little choice but to submit to lending us aid." And, of course, they'd be submitting to Chiomara personally. If all went according to her vision, and who could doubt that it would, Thunderhome would soon be flying her banner, and that was enough to make her pulse quicken in eager anticipation.



Made some die rolls Here (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showsinglepost.php?p=20147540&postcount=69)

While I doubt it, is there anything important I should know about Thunderhome?

[7th son of sons]

Orphis offhandedly raised his hand from the distance he was from the others. I don't know much about either parties, but that this Lightning Duke serves under another fiefdom has me in the mind to speak with him firstly. What we need more than anything is loyalty, and those who use our power in the service of another are known for loyalty, at least in my experiences. Just as well, he may know more on this 'Logyle' than we know currently.

[silphael]

"Black Demon? Honestly, I think as well we should seek that one. Either he joins the fight against the flight, or he falls under our weapons if he wants to keep acting as he does. However, we don't know how much power he is packing, and if we want to be sure he surrenders peacefully other allies may be necessary. Both of those will definitely help us if faced with such a challenge, while we have no idea what that Demon may do."

While the princess ennounced an order, Dunir ennounced a fact.

[7th son of sons]

"Black Demon? Honestly, I think as well we should seek that one. Either he joins the fight against the flight, or he falls under our weapons if he wants to keep acting as he does. However, we don't know how much power he is packing, and if we want to be sure he surrenders peacefully other allies may be necessary. Both of those will definitely help us if faced with such a challenge, while we have no idea what that Demon may do."

While the princess ennounced an order, Dunir ennounced a fact.

Orphis face hardened as he clenched his fists, allowing himself a moment of his famous anger to flare up before quelling it with words. Those who choose to bear the title of Demon are not in my graces. I'd prefer to avoid such a creature entirely, specificially in light of our recent activities...

[JKTrickster]

Zen had looked around inquisitively, and his ears perked up when he heard the other two Avatars being mentioned. Scratching his chin, he had heard many tales about the Avatar Ozerat but he had heard relatively little about the Avatar Logyle. Still both were admirable individuals and Zen did not fear that either would really be unwilling to help. Although he was unsure about the strength of Avatar Ozerat, he was sure that the ability to traverse large distances would be necessary in the upcoming war against the Wymborn, especially if they had dragons.

Still the idea about the Black Demon troubled him a little bit. Well more than a little bit. "Here," Zen softly said as he tried to interpose himself between Dunrir and Orphis. "Perhaps there is logic here. Quite frankly, it is dangerous to leave a rogue Avatar called the Black Demon running around the Fiefdoms unchecked. If she starts a war between the Fey, that could have severe consequences when the Wyrmborn strike. We would be unable to call upon the Fey to help repel those black-hearted creatures. Perhaps we should at least investigate before we leave to find other Avatars - the Black Demon might make the overall situation worse before we can come back in time." Scratching the back of his head, Zen tried to smile at Orphis. "Perhaps we are not going to recruit this Black Demon - but we simply cannot let her rampage continued without some kind of intervention correct? Still it is right to be cautious - should we gather allies before confronting this Black Demon? Do we have time?"

[manwithaplan]

Hamish stood awkwardly with his arms folded, his eyes constantly going to Wyrmbreaker tucked in his belt.

Um, whenever you're ready.

You are one of these men. Make them believe it.

I was worried you'd say something like that.

He gathered his thoughts on the matter a bit longer before speaking. His first few words were stuttered as his usual nervousness of the other Avatars fought him, but he overcame it.

"I think Zen's got the right idea. It doesn't matter whether this Black Demon is on our side, or...well, a demon. He's an Avatar, which means that either befriending or defeating him is a top priority. It would be foolish to just go and leave him because we're more interesting in finding friends, or worse, because we don't think we have enough manpower to defeat him. As I understand it, we are the manpower now."

[7th son of sons]

Orphis closed his eyes, crossed his arms, and let out a long breath, steam visibly escaping from his mouth. Very well, I understand your reasoning. This... Avatar, should not be allowed to operate on their own any longer. We should deal with them sooner, rather than later. Immediately, I would say.

[JKTrickster]

Zen nodded, glad that Orphis understood their intent. Looking at Hamish, he smiled and thanked him for his support. "Yes, it is unlikely that we can garner the Black Demon's support. That might make it even more important that we find her immediately. Perhaps we can head west along the coast," Zen suggested as he thought about the quickest route to reach the Black Demon. "We would go west until we reach the river and follow it inland. That should bring us straight to the Black Demon," he said as he consulted the maps. Taking out one that showed the Okoryoshu Fiefdoms in closer detail, Zen traced his finger along the route he suggested. "How does that sound, everyone?"

[Kymme]

At Tylani's Home

Tylani nods in turn to each of the assembled Avatars. "If that is your plan, then I am fully behind it." She stands. "However, I am afraid I will not be able to travel with you on your mission against the Black Demon. There are more Avatars on their way, I hope, and I'll need to be here to receive them. That doesn't mean that we won't be in contact, though. I can communicate with you through my dreaming magics, and you will have this." Tylani takes a small trinket - some sort of magical totem (http://cdn.imgs.steps.dragoart.com/how-to-draw-a-totem-pole-step-9_1_000000009173_5.jpg) - from her pile of notes and hands it to Zen. "This item allows me to channel my powers through it, so that I may assist you no matter how far you travel."

Tylani steps back, but quickly realizes that she's forgetting something. "And another thing! I have a boat that you all can use! Let me show you."

Down several stairways carved into the rock face and across rickety scaffolding, Tylani leads her fellow Avatars to the water's edge. There sits a small boat: a dhow (http://preview.turbosquid.com/Preview/2014/07/07__23_41_37/dhow7.jpgb52cc6e8-4e13-4e3d-843d-dfe87bb733d8Original.jpg) with two triangular sails. "I know it isn't much, but it needs hardly any crew to pilot it, and it should be able to take you to the river-mouth. Time is of the essence, but it wouldn't be wise for you all to leave quite yet. Princess Chiomara, you might need to collect the rest of your minions, and the rest of you will surely need food and water for the voyage. I mostly have fruit, however. Some of you might require more... substantial rations." She glances at Hamish and Dunir as she says this.

Mechanically, Tylani can cast spells through the totem as if she was occupying the same space as its holder, though she is limited to 9 spell levels every day. This isn't much of an issue, however, because she can easily cast Summon Nature's Ally 5 to call 3 unicorns and spread out the healing among the part.

Also, have 1,500 Mythos Points. (for a total of 2,000, so far; I'm going to provide Mythos points instead of XP and then level the party up at specific milestones) Partly for having to put up with my spotty DM posts, but mostly because meeting with Tylani and agreeing to help fight against the Flight is a decision that will impact the entire campaign setting.

[JKTrickster]

Zen receives the totem with great care before placing it within his belt pouch. He felt honored to carry such an important totem of Tylani's power and influence. After carefully putting it away, Zen took a deep bow to show his respect to Avatar Tyalni. "Thank you for your assistance," he said quietly and calmly. "May the Phoenix's light guide our hands and our actions." Zen then turned back to the others as he started thinking about when they would be able to leave.

"We need to prepare enough rations for the trip there and back..." Zen thought out loud as he looked over at Dunrir. To be honest, they were in the middle of the wilderness - if they needed more substantial rations, they would have to hunt for it themselves. Zen personally did not need anything more substantial, but he understood if the other Avatars required more sustenance. That was key - after all they would be traveling with almost all of Princess Chiomara's forces and they definitely needed more substantial rations than fruits or berries. And after they crossed into swamp territory, they would be completely unable to realistically forage the land for food. Even if they wanted to stockpile on the way there, that would make the journey much slower than usual - if the Black Demon really was allied with the fey, that would give her plenty of warning beforehand. That would be....less than ideal, Zen thought quietly to himself.

[7th son of sons]

We require no such provisions, Orphis reasserted, motioning to his manes as he did. But if provisions are required, and it seems that they are, allow me to carry them. It is no burden upon me to do so.

[manwithaplan]

Hamish noticed Tylani's glance and smiled.

"I'll be fine with the fruit. Ulfgar...oh, I'm sure he'll be fine."

[silphael]

"Well, berries and fruits won't be enough for me, but I can take care of myself. The troops, however... I won't be able to hunt enough for them, we will definitely need rations and that kind of food."

Dunir seems quite eager to move to that Black Demon, without really caring wether it would be an ally or an ennemy.

[NineOfSpades]

"Do not speak of things you are ignorent off" Cut Chiomara, as comments were made about her soldiers. "My forces are not mewling babes and need not be coddled. They will march when told, no matter where it is I direct them. Spare no concern for their wellbeing or hunger, I have ensured that each is capable of caring for their own needs without difficulty."

[7th son of sons]

Then let us away. If Chiomera believes her troops will fend well, then we have no reason to wait. We must strike when his numbers are lowest, and when better than after a battle?