Celticbear's Wrath of the Righteous Book 1: The Worldwound Incursion

[Celticbear]

For several weeks, excitement has been building in Kenabres-Armasse is coming! Traditionally an opportunity for scholars and priests to come together to study the lessons of history from wars past, since Aroden's death, this holy day has become more about training commoners in weaponry, choosing squires, and ordaining new priests. Over time, Armasse has grown to encompass jousting competitions, mock duels, battle reenactments, and other festival events. In Kenabres, the festival (which takes place on i6 Arodus) is eagerly anticipated, for it provides distractions from the horrors of being on the front line of the war. Smiles on faces normally marred by downcast eyes and furrowed brows do wonders for city morale in the weeks leading up to the event. Armasse is a citywide celebration, but the majority of the event, including its jousting matches and other entertainments, takes place at Clydwell Plaza, just west of the cathedral.

Once you all take your seats in the massive arena, your head suddenly starts to throb, your vision darkens, and suddenly you are in a cave, with darkness all around you. You look up, and you see a massive hole going upward, and you can even see the sky through it, though it is not the sky you are all familiar with. It is a massive cloud of smoke, with no blue peeking through. The sounds of shouting are heard above, both humans in horror, and shouts of something otherworldly alien. The alien shouts sound something like laughter, though it is just a sick imitation of it.

Suddenly your head clears, and you remember how you got here!

Armasse officially began at noon, with the blessing of the festival by Lord Hulrun himself, ruler of Kenabres. The crowd gathered in Clydwell Plaza quieted as the aged inquisitor took the stage, clad in shining resplendent armor. He clears his throat, but just as he was about to speak, a bright light shone from the west, as if the sun were rising in the wrong direction. Hulrun's shadow fell huge and distorted across the cathedral's facade. A moment later, the sound of a thunderous explosion ripped through the air and earth, along with a violent tremor.

To the west, the fortress known as the Kite, the location of Kenebres's wardstone, had vanished. In its place, a brilliant plume of red fire, lightning, and smoke erupted into the heavens.

A moment later, a powerful roar accompanied a welcome sight rising from the crowd, Kenebres's greatest guardian, the ancient silver dragon Terendelev, who had until that moment been disguised as a human onlooker in the crowd. Above, another form appears as a nightmarish as the dragon was breathtaking. A humanoid shape three times the size of any man, with skin coated in fire and lightning, gripped a flaming sword and whip. The creature's identity was immediately obvious: Khorramzdeh, the Storm King of the Worldwound, had come to Kenebres!

As the ground continued to shake and disgorge demons into the streets, the dragon and the balor lord clashed above. the fight was over in a few harrowing moments, as the balor cut deep into Terendelev's body, swooping down to strike the dragon and arresting her charge. A few more blows, and the titanic duo spiraled downward into the crowd.

The sight of the dragon smashing into the facade of the Cathedral of St. Clydwell is one no witness would ever forget. At that moment, a titanic demon erupted at the far and of the plaza, reducing several building down to rubble. The rift it created shot through the plaza like an earthquake. There was no time to avoid it, and you among others in the crowd started to fall.

Even as you fell, the dragon noticed your plight. Though she saw death standing over her, she seized this final chance to save a few souls. After she uttered a few arcane words and stretched out a bleeding claw, you felt magic take hold over you, slowing your descent into darkness as if you were feathers falling into a pit. Yet the fall remained inexorable, and as you drifted downward towards the depths the last thing you saw was the Storm King standing over the ancient silver dragon, his sword lashing out cleaving through her neck.

The flash of memory is gone, and those of you with darkvision can see a human woman with a clearly broken leg, an elven man clutching his eyes screaming I can't see!, and finally a fat human man with a stunned expression over his face.

[HappyMerecat]

Etherian

Coming to his senses Etherian grabs his staff and rises to his feet. He grimaces in fury as he looks around at his surroundings. Seeing no enemies he forces himself to calm down. Realizing that not everyone has the ability to see in the dark he speaks some words in celestial and gestures and the stone on his staff glows with a pure blue light.
He again scans the are for any threat and his surroundings in general.
Cast Light spell on the stone in his staff
Perception [roll0]

[Historian Pike]

For several weeks, excitement has been building in Kenabres-Armasse is coming! Traditionally an opportunity for scholars and priests to come together to study the lessons of history from wars past, since Aroden's death, this holy day has become more about training commoners in weaponry, choosing squires, and ordaining new priests. Over time, Armasse has grown to encompass jousting competitions, mock duels, battle reenactments, and other festival events. In Kenabres, the festival (which takes place on i6 Arodus) is eagerly anticipated, for it provides distractions from the horrors of being on the front line of the war. Smiles on faces normally marred by downcast eyes and furrowed brows do wonders for city morale in the weeks leading up to the event. Armasse is a citywide celebration, but the majority of the event, including its jousting matches and other entertainments, takes place at Clydwell Plaza, just west of the cathedral.

Once you all take your seats in the massive arena, your head suddenly starts to throb, your vision darkens, and suddenly you are in a cave, with darkness all around you. You look up, and you see a massive hole going upward, and you can even see the sky through it, though it is not the sky you are all familiar with. It is a massive cloud of smoke, with no blue peeking through. The sounds of shouting are heard above, both humans in horror, and shouts of something otherworldly alien. The alien shouts sound something like laughter, though it is just a sick imitation of it.

Suddenly your head clears, and you remember how you got here!

Armasse officially began at noon, with the blessing of the festival by Lord Hulrun himself, ruler of Kenabres. The crowd gathered in Clydwell Plaza quieted as the aged inquisitor took the stage, clad in shining resplendent armor. He clears his throat, but just as he was about to speak, a bright light shone from the west, as if the sun were rising in the wrong direction. Hulrun's shadow fell huge and distorted across the cathedral's facade. A moment later, the sound of a thunderous explosion ripped through the air and earth, along with a violent tremor.

To the west, the fortress known as the Kite, the location of Kenebres's wardstone, had vanished. In its place, a brilliant plume of red fire, lightning, and smoke erupted into the heavens.

A moment later, a powerful roar accompanied a welcome sight rising from the crowd, Kenebres's greatest guardian, the ancient silver dragon Terendelev, who had until that moment been disguised as a human onlooker in the crowd. Above, another form appears as a nightmarish as the dragon was breathtaking. A humanoid shape three times the size of any man, with skin coated in fire and lightning, gripped a flaming sword and whip. The creature's identity was immediately obvious: Khorramzdeh, the Storm King of the Worldwound, had come to Kenebres!

As the ground continued to shake and disgorge demons into the streets, the dragon and the balor lord clashed above. the fight was over in a few harrowing moments, as the balor cut deep into Terendelev's body, swooping down to strike the dragon and arresting her charge. A few more blows, and the titanic duo spiraled downward into the crowd.

The sight of the dragon smashing into the facade of the Cathedral of St. Clydwell is one no witness would ever forget. At that moment, a titanic demon erupted at the far and of the plaza, reducing several building down to rubble. The rift it created shot through the plaza like an earthquake. There was no time to avoid it, and you among others in the crowd started to fall.

Even as you fell, the dragon noticed your plight. Though she saw death standing over her, she seized this final chance to save a few souls. After she uttered a few arcane words and stretched out a bleeding claw, you felt magic take hold over you, slowing your descent into darkness as if you were feathers falling into a pit. Yet the fall remained inexorable, and as you drifted downward towards the depths the last thing you saw was the Storm King standing over the ancient silver dragon, his sword lashing out cleaving through her neck.

The flash of memory is gone, and those of you with darkvision can see a human woman with a clearly broken leg, an elven man clutching his eyes screaming I can't see!, and finally a fat human man with a stunned expression over his face.

In the darkness, a groan echoed from the downed figure of another human, a man who pushed himself up from the ground to kneel. For those of them with darkvision, perhaps they could make out the scale mail that clad the man's torso, gauntlets removed from it for some reason, or the glint of confusion slowly morphing into rage within his eyes. At the moment though, all that mattered was that his hands inched through the darkness around him, searching for the bag that he had brought along and the blade that had once hung from his shoulder.

"Have you thought it might be a tad dark?" Algune replied to the screaming man through the darkness offhandedly, voice calm and resolute in this moment of despair. They couldn't lose their heads and run about wildly in the darkness here, not with the way in which they were brought low into this shadowed place. His brow furrowed at the thought of what had happened... He had only heard from hearsay that a dragon flew under Kenabres's banner, but to think such a beast had just clashed with and died at the hands of what looked like the Storm King itself... What had happened to the city of Kenabres?

One thing at a time, Algune... First, find light. He couldn't lose his head worrying about the city at large until they knew exactly where they were. For now, the bloodrager had to focus on the issue that was just ahead of them. Still lightly touching and poking through the darkness to try and find his bag which would hold his torches, the Ulfen called through the darkness once again, "Who here bear torches as I do? It would be a favor to all of us if you could light one."

[Historian Pike]

Etherian

Coming to his senses Etherian grabs his staff and rises to his feet. He grimaces in fury as he looks around at his surroundings. Seeing no enemies he forces himself to calm down. Realizing that not everyone has the ability to see in the dark he speaks some words in celestial and gestures and the stone on his staff glows with a pure blue light.
He again scans the are for any threat and his surroundings in general.
Cast Light spell on the stone in his staff
Perception [roll0]

"Well, not a torch, but close enough," Algune spoke as the darkness began to part aside, allowing the beard young man to see... some sort of magician? Hopefully another warrior who had come to fight in the crusades. Shooting the man a friendly grin and a nod of acknowledgement, the Ulfen gave him another once over with his eyes before speaking again, "Thank you for the light, magician. It's a small comfort at the moment... ah, and I am Algune mac Trálín."

[Silent Justice]

"Hmph," Almive says as she stands up and brushes herself off. She checked her bag to make sure her mutagen ingredients were still intact. Thank Cayden, they were.
"Algune, it's good to see you!" She said suddenly as she spots her old friend. She smiled, and looked over at the others. A sorcerer, a fat man, a woman, and a stupid Elf, alongside Algune. "Where are we? How did we survive the fall?"

[theasl]

Nearby, Lorena stirs and sits up, dusting the dirt off of her armor. Ignoring the others fumbling around for light for now, she takes a look around, her eyes scanning the cave for a way out.

perception [roll0]

edit: lol, may as well not have darkvision

[Historian Pike]

"Hmph," Almive says as she stands up and brushes herself off. She checked her bag to make sure her mutagen ingredients were still intact. Thank Cayden, they were.
"Algune, it's good to see you!" She said suddenly as she spots her old friend. She smiled, and looked over at the others. A sorcerer, a fat man, a woman, and a stupid Elf, alongside Algune. "Where are we? How did we survive the fall?"

"Almive?" The bloodrager perked up when he heard his friend's voice, a genuine if short-lived smile coming to his lips. It seemed the General and the Hero both blessed them to survive and meet here. "Aye, it's wonderful to see you're well, svoret søster. As for where we are..." He glanced upwards, staring at the ceiling of the cavern for a moment with a frown, "I recall falling, that dragon reaching out to us for a moment before its death... perhaps it was what saved us in its last moments, a final act of mercy for those it protected?"

It seemed as likely as anything else at the moment... He would have to provide offerings in its memory to both his and Almive's protectors. For the moment though, they needed to focus on freeing themselves of this place. "Right, best we start taking stock of our conditions and gathering what supplies we have to escape this place..." He turned his head to the strangers who had not yet spoken and the elf who had shouted about his special eyes, waving at them, "You all. I am Algune, and that is my svoret søster Almive. Are you all able to walk?"

Svoret søster is Danish for 'sworn sister'. Danish seems to me like a good stand-in for Skald, Algune's native tongue besides Common.

[NiKkatsu]

The little man awoke suddenly. It was dark and his head hurt like hells. While he felt around in hopes of finding his gear, a magical light flared and he could see again; all his stuff was near. He shook his head and took in what he saw: there were a few survivors, most of which seemed able enough. Strangely, most of them did not look human - one even seemed to bear demonic features and this fact frightened the druid. "This must be the start of that which I was destined for" he thought to himself, griping his staff.

While the others still seemed a little shook, he decided to break off into the shadows and watch what would come of the situation before acting .

[roll0]

Once hidden he gave silent prayer to Desna. What formidable strength the Demon had displayed. Slaying a dragon is no small feat... He caught himself trembling.

[HappyMerecat]

Etherian

"I am Etherian Nylanass...not exactly a mage." His eyes flickered across the others. He wondered if any were demons in disguise, who knew what the abyss was going on. He wondered if any of them knew him by his parents name or by his reputation of being tainted by evil.

"I recall Terendelev seemingly using magic to protect us from the fall as well. After the demons attacked." A moment of rage crossed his face. He seemed to have no interest in checking supplies and continued examining their surroundings. "There must be a way out, we are just under the city."

[Historian Pike]

"A sorcerer then? The talent remains the same," Algune replied while finally finding his greatsword and backpack that carried his supplies. Swinging the pack over his shoulder for now and holding his sword one-handed, the Ulfen looked back to Etherian with a smile, "In any case, Etherian, it seems my general has ordained that we meet and help each other and the others. As such, it is good that we've met one another."

He then grew quiet as the spellcaster added his own two coppers on what took place, seemingly agreeing with him. "Perhaps... though they are not like the linnorms in ferocity and rage, dragons are known to be magical, yes?" He muttered while nodding his head, thinking on what this meant. The draconic protector of this city had blessed them with a chance to survive, a chance when it was about to be slain... "I can only hope that Ragathiel provides her with a place at his side for her sacrifice..." The warrior sighed, knowing he could do nothing for her now, before cocking his head to the side, "As for an exit... hopefully, there are tunnels to escape. However, best we plan to ration our supplies until we find an escape..."

"Etherian, could you look over the others? As someone relatively unharmed and skilled with the blade, it's best if I look first around this place to ensure no harm befalls you all," Not even waiting for a response, he turned from the sorcerer, looking about the place for anything notable about the cavern.

[roll0] Perception roll

[Celticbear]

You all are in a cave with two branching pathways leading out. The elven man, now in the light, has a severely burned face. He is still shouting about blindness. The human woman with the broken leg asks Can someone help me up? I don't think I can walk on my own.

[Historian Pike]

You all are in a cave with two branching pathways leading out. The elven man, now in the light, has a severely burned face. He is still shouting about blindness. The human woman with the broken leg asks Can someone help me up? I don't think I can walk on my own.

The bloodrager looked between the two then to Al and to Etherian with a pondering look. How exactly would they go about this? "Etherian, do you think you could calm the Fair One there?" He asked aloud before pointing to the elf then to the young woman, "She can be his eyes while he acts as her support, and that way, they can work as a duo to walk while we protect them from anything up ahead."

[Elemental]

Somewhat slower than the others to react to the situation, Sandulf picked himself up off the ground and dusted off his coat. Though others had already provided light he nevertheless placed a candle into his handy candlestick before lighting it and checking that he had all his belongings. Satisfied he had everything and he was uninjured he turned his gaze to his fellow survivors. A somewhat eclectic bunch, but no one who immediately struck him as a threat, indeed most of them seemed to know what they were doing. He cast his mind back to the stories he had heard and books he had read about the city of Kenabres, perhaps there was some clue there as to where they were?

Total shot in the dark: [roll0]

[theasl]

The sudden light dazzles Lorena's eyes a little; she can't see much of the surroundings, so she turns to gather up her pack and check that she has all of her gear. Still ignoring the others, she straps her buckler to her arm and leans on her spear to stand up, then surveys the cave again, this time spotting the pathways. TWO exits? If she chose the wrong one, it could very well mean death...and that wouldn't be very helpful, now would it. Seeing no other choice, she finally turns her attention to the others trapped in the cave. They don't seem to be overly alarmed at her presence, though she looks over and waits warily for one of them to address her first to gauge what kind of reaction she'll get - hopefully they won't mistake her for the enemy.

[HappyMerecat]

Etherian

Etherian nods and head over to the elven man and the human woman. His face softens as he does so.
He helps up the woman with one arm, being careful to not put weight on her leg. He has no difficulty doing so, as he seems much stronger than he looks. As he he helps her he speaks to the elf. "We seem to be out of any imminent danger my friend. I know your blindness is distressing, but hopefully it is temporary."
"In any case there are a number of us and we will help you and deal with any danger."

Diplomacy to calm the elf. [roll0]

[Celticbear]

Etherian

Etherian nods and head over to the elven man and the human woman. His face softens as he does so.
He helps up the woman with one arm, being careful to not put weight on her leg. He has no difficulty doing so, as he seems much stronger than he looks. As he he helps her he speaks to the elf. "We seem to be out of any imminent danger my friend. I know your blindness is distressing, but hopefully it is temporary."
"In any case there are a number of us and we will help you and deal with any danger."

Diplomacy to calm the elf. [roll0]

The woman is grateful for your help, but the elven man still frantically muttering about how he can't see.

The fat human man in the corner though finally gets out of his catatonic state, and stands up. He clears his throat and says:
Right. Who here is experienced in martial combat? Those of you who are should split apart and scout out the pathways. Rogues and spellcasters will remain here attending to the wounded. Those of you who follow my instructions and get me safely alive out of here will be paid an exceptional amount of gold. What are you waiting for, chop chop!

[Silent Justice]

"I can fight." Almive says, grunting as she glares at the man. "But I'm not fighting for you, I'm fighting for the people of the city, jackass."

She looks over to Algune and says "Let's go check out that one." She says. "I can guide us. Or we could get a torch?"

[NiKkatsu]

Disdain runs quickly upon Wellby's face as he hears the fat man speak - far too "civilized" for his taste. But the oaf is right about there being two exits. And that could be a problem.

From his hiding place, Wellby looks around and tries to spot a denizen of this cave: a small lizard, a rodent, any creature that could help him navigate the cave.

But,as he is not used to being in caves, Wellby easily gets distracted while looking around: the angles of the walls, the way the light falls in from the ceiling, the echo of movements or the smells, so different from the ones in his forest: Only Nature could paint such a perfect portrait! Suddenly, his mind races with excitement "There must be lichen and small plants down here that I could use in my balms..."

But reality suddenly rears it's nasty head and a second later, he remembers why he's hiding at the bottom of a cave. He feels unease in his gut "Concentrate, Wellby. Look around. Have faith in Nature." He focuses his gaze and looks for a critter.

[roll0]

[Elemental]

Sandulf carefully regards the man speaking. For all his confidence and arrogance there was definitely fear there, he would not prove useful for the time being.
"Offering us gold for something we were already going to do?" he chuckles before continuing, "You need to keep a tighter hold of your purse strings. However, I accept your offer of payment on the sole provision that you not seek to order us around lest you make a fool of yourself."
He looks his accidental companions over, two warriors, a magician, a woman with an unfortunate visage and... Hmm... Wasn't there someone else? He must have miscounted in the confusion.
"If you both will take that passage I will take the other, though I will need a companion"

[HappyMerecat]

Etherian

Etherian ignores the fat man. "While there seems to be no danger currently, the city is under attack. I suggest we stay together as best we can. I can see the wisdom of a bit of scouting, but not too far."
"I have only the one light source and while I can see in the dark, others can't."

[Celticbear]

Are you all going to ignore my orders? Do any of you peasants know who I am? I am one of the most prestigious nobleman in all of Kenebres, and you all dare to think that you can just brush me off to the side like some used handkerchief? I demand that you follow my instructions now before I take measures against you! yells the man in outrage. It does not take a sense motive check to tell that this guy is not used to situations like these, and you're either going to have to calmly let him know he has no idea what he's doing or put him in his place.

The elf man is still frantic, yelling that he'll never cast a spell again.

[HappyMerecat]

Etherian

Etherian snaps he head around towards the fat man, anger clearly showing on his face. He struggles to control himself as his hand begins to raise.
"Take measures against me! What are you going to do? Bury us in gold? We will get out of here, but we have injured people and I don't care how rich or important you think you are!"

Intimidation [roll0]

[Historian Pike]

Algune watched as Almive and Etherian began to butt head with the man, arguing needlessly with him over command. The sight of it, one a pompous nobleman who demanded obedience and the other two radicals causing conflict when they could simply keep their opinions to themselves... the normally stoic warrior scowled for a brief moment at both parties involved, his voice rising up to draw their attention.

"All three of you stop with your name-calling and idle threatening!"

First to Almive, his head turned and his eyes narrowed as he spoke out, "Al, I have told you in the past, hold your tongue when in danger until a better time to have words comes. At the moment, we are trapped down here for who knows how long together, and I will not accept you needlessly jabbing at a man who might be able to help the wounded move about."

"As for you, sir," Algune turned to the older gentleman, scowl deepening in frustration before bowing his head in respect, "I admit, I do not know your claim to nobility. I am a foreigner to this land, come to help in the crusade. Upon the surface, I would welcome your command as a soldier of Ragathiel following a noble, whether fighting the raids of Irrisen or clashing with the demons of the Wound. Not for pay, but out of duty. At the moment, however," His head raised back up, looking the man square in the eye, "We are in unknown terrain, one where we may need to fight to survive. We are each equal here in attempting to survive, each knowledgeable in different aspects. You may know of some facts about the upper city once we arrive there, but we know how to wield blade and magic to defense of ourselves and you. We have to work together, not assume command over each other and threaten each other needlessly if we do not get our way."

"Finally, Sir Etherian," A final round to turn on the sorcerer, a snarl aimed his way, "Do not threaten another innocent man before me again. He is like us; worried, confused, and seeking some sort of comfort in this time of darkness. My comfort is my blade, your comfort is your light, and his is his organization - He is not our leader, but his advice is good." He crossed his arms thinking on the idea once again on how to proceed before nodding, looking between all three of them, "We should not threaten and humiliate one another... is this how the crusaders act in combating the demons? No. They unite, they work as one, not as a dozen pieces competing against each other. We should follow his advice as he simply wishes to help in the best way he knows; by advising others. In this darkness, we struggle together."

[roll0] Diplomacy over Intimidate, man.

[Celticbear]

The man looks astonished, and shuts the Hell up.

Still delirious blind elf, and the woman can clearly not walk on her own.

[theasl]

Lorena hears the nobleman's pitiful demands and can't help but chuckle. As the others launch into...discussion...she finally breaks her silence. Ignoring the nobleman and those arguing with him, she addresses the human who'd asked for help (Sandulf): "I can see in the dark - I'll go with you...if you're okay with it, that is. I promise that I have nothing to do with the demons out there." Lorena does her best to seem innocent and non-threatening, though her sensual voice probably doesn't help much.

[Silent Justice]

"...Alright." Almive said, stiffening. She hated when he went on such convincing monologues like this. "I... apologize, old friend. And to you, sir." She added to the nobleman, reluctantly bowing her head.
"Algune and the sorcerer are right. We should stick together. Let us go down one of these paths. Perhaps I lead the way? For I can see through the darkness on my own, and can definitely hold my own in a brawl, even with a demon."

[Elemental]

Sandulf bows politely to Lorena. "I am certain that were you aligned with our enemies our benefactress would not have wasted her strength in securing your salvation. I am Sandulf, Son of Athaulf, a pleasure to make your acquaintance."
He turns to the others. "However, it seems we are to stay together. Either plan has its merit, but Sir Algune seems to believe that remaining as one is for the best and he seems a more experienced warrior than I so I will bow to his judgement in this matter. I have candles aplenty for those who desire them but I am afraid I have only the one holder."

[HappyMerecat]

Etherian


"Finally, Sir Etherian," A final round to turn on the sorcerer, a snarl aimed his way, "Do not threaten another innocent man before me again. He is like us; worried, confused, and seeking some sort of comfort in this time of darkness. My comfort is my blade, your comfort is your light, and his is his organization - He is not our leader, but his advice is good." He crossed his arms thinking on the idea once again on how to proceed before nodding, looking between all three of them, "We should not threaten and humiliate one another... is this how the crusaders act in combating the demons? No. They unite, they work as one, not as a dozen pieces competing against each other. We should follow his advice as he simply wishes to help in the best way he knows; by advising others. In this darkness, we struggle together."

Etherian glares back at Algune. "I didn't threaten anyone so hold your tongue. I was working with you and the rest until mister gold started barking needless orders. We were already organizing without his arrogance."
"Now if you are going to try diplomacy by shoving everyone else down to his level you are merely going to make things worse. I did not bark orders, threaten or demand obedience."
Etherian took a deep breath, his rage slowly subsiding.
He then finally looks over at mister gold. "Look, I realize you are scared. We are all scared and you likely feel out of control, we all do. We will work together and not because you are going to pay us or because you threaten us. The threat is the demons and being trapped here."

Diplomacy [roll0] to gain the fat mans co-operation.

"Now. Lets get down to the business of getting out of here." He looks around and walks over to the elf and gently takes his arm. "I am Etherian and I'll guide you for now. Try to calm down. I know that is hard, but we need quiet."


Diplomacy [roll1] to calm the elf down.

Etherian then looks to the human woman. "If we get you a staff, can you walk or do you need more help?"

"Does anyone have another light source? I suggest we have two people scout, but only one room ahead of the rest."

[Historian Pike]

Well, even if he and Etherian weren't exactly civil with one another... It seemed the issue had passed for the moment. Nodding at his sworn sister's apology, the bloodrager swung his bag off his shoulder to dig through it quickly. After a moment, a simple torch was in his hand, lit and ready to be held high as he fought in answer to Etherian's question about other light sources, "It's only a torch, but it will provide some light for my eyes if I and Almive scout ahead while you and the others stay together."

Course, this left the question of how he would use his blade when one of his hands were occupied... Of course, if it was not a demon, he could simply beat it to death with the torch itself, and if need be, he could simply place it down on the ground. It at least seemed dry enough to stay lit during a short enough fight, so perhaps it would be okay?

[theasl]

Lorena smiles gratefully as Sandulf responds, happy to know that at least one person here isn't going to stab her on sight. As the group prepares to move out, she hangs off to the side, having nothing to prepare - her abilities make her more at home in the dark than light. Then, she has a thought. Speaking up again, addressing the whole group this time, "I don't require light to see - and I think I'm not alone in that regard", her eyes briefly darting towards the others who'd made the same claim. "Maybe we should be the ones going ahead, to avoid drawing attention?"

[Historian Pike]

Lorena smiles gratefully as Sandulf responds, happy to know that at least one person here isn't going to stab her on sight. As the group prepares to move out, she hangs off to the side, having nothing to prepare - her abilities make her more at home in the dark than light. Then, she has a thought. Speaking up again, addressing the whole group this time, "I don't require light to see - and I think I'm not alone in that regard", her eyes briefly darting towards the others who'd made the same claim. "Maybe we should be the ones going ahead, to avoid drawing attention?"

"True... you could provide us insight to our foes by scouting ahead, then coming to tell my svoret søster and me what awaits us so we can be better prepared to strike," Algune replies with a thoughtful expression, liking the idea the young woman had, "Good thinking, young lady. Oh, and I don't believe we've caught each other's names; I am Algune."

[theasl]

Lorena is a bit incredulous that nobody is trying to stick a sword in her side yet, given the circumstances - she's been chased away and even hurt badly for far less than a full-on demon attack. If everyone in this city so trusting, no wonder it's being overrun...or perhaps it's only because we're stuck in here? This is almost too easy... As she listens to and processes the other human's response, though, she starts to feel a bit uneasy - is he just trying to get rid of her by sending her out by herself? With a drip of fear evident in her voice, Lorena responds, "I...I would prefer to not go alone, I know there is someone else who can come with me." She seems to have not heard, or forgotten in her panic, Algune asking her name.

Young lady? She's older than everyone else, almost combined...though I guess there's no way a mere human could tell :smallwink:

Oh, and don't misread that - there are no ulterior motives involved beyond saving her own skin, much as I'd like to keep you all guessing :smallbiggrin:

[Historian Pike]

Lorena is a bit incredulous that nobody is trying to stick a sword in her side yet, given the circumstances - she's been chased away and even hurt badly for far less than a full-on demon attack. If everyone in this city so trusting, no wonder it's being overrun...or perhaps it's only because we're stuck in here? This is almost too easy... As she listens to and processes the other human's response, though, she starts to feel a bit uneasy - is he just trying to get rid of her by sending her out by herself? With a drip of fear evident in her voice, Lorena responds, "I...I would prefer to not go alone, I know there is someone else who can come with me." She seems to have not heard, or forgotten in her panic, Algune asking her name.

Young lady? She's older than everyone else, almost combined...though I guess there's no way a mere human could tell :smallwink:

Oh, and don't misread that - there are no ulterior motives involved beyond saving her own skin, much as I'd like to keep you all guessing :smallbiggrin:

"True... Perhaps Almive can go with you as well? You both can see through the darkness, and I trust her to do her best to protect a companion as I would," Algune replied, barely noticing that she missed his question or that she was afraid. In fact, it seemed he was a bit too focused on how best to plan their approach to exploring further into the cavern... "Of course, if you do not feel comfortable with such a plan, I understand and will take the lead once again through the darkness."

He just wants to be polite to the lovely young lady. :smallwink: And don't worry, Algune might be at 12 Wisdom, but he's no good at actually sensing someone's motive. Just tell him you want to get out of here, and he'll vow to protect you all day everyday. :smalltongue:

[Celticbear]

Your efforts in calming the elven man are still not fruitful, but the woman agrees that if she had something to prop her up she should be alright. The nobleman seems a bit more content now that diplomacy has been tried.

I'm Anievia by the way. says the woman.

[HappyMerecat]

Etherian

Etherian nods. "Good to meet you Anievia." He hands her his ornate staff with the glowing stone. "Try this."

He then again turns to the elf. "We all need to pull together. Can I have your name and I heard you mentioning spells. We are going to need all the help we can get and as you need me, we will need you."

Diplomacy [roll0]

[Celticbear]

((Okay, the elf thing is getting ridiculous and we need to move on))

Through all of your diplomacy combined the elf finally calms down and says: I'm Aravashnial.

[Silent Justice]

Almive glares at Lorena, then whispers to Algune "I do not think we can trust her... She's a tiefling. What if she is a spy of the enemy, sent to deceive us and lead us into a trap?"

[Historian Pike]

Almive glares at Lorena, then whispers to Algune "I do not think we can trust her... She's a tiefling. What if she is a spy of the enemy, sent to deceive us and lead us into a trap?"

"You would judge one based on things outside of their control?" The bloodrager turned his head and gave his companion a questioning look, whispering for the moment, "The tiefling people are mauled and abused by others for the truths of nature, things they cannot change. To be a warrior of the divine is to look past those cruel realities... I cannot judge one for their birth, and you ought not to either. Sometimes, the most righteous souls are cursed with the most tortured appearance."

"However," Algune's volume returned to a normal speaking voice, turning away from his friend to face Lorena, "It is your choice to make. I will not force you to work together." Stepping forward, he nodded to the tiefling woman, "Unless you wish to work with another with darkvision, it seems I will be the one to walk with you. Is that alright?"

[theasl]

Seems like not everyone is on board with the trusting route today. So much for the stealthy approach... A look of disappointment crosses Lorena's face, but quickly passes. The other is still in the back tending to the wounded - a waste of time, if you'd ask her - so she turns back to the more important matter at hand. She replies to Algune, "No, it's fine, you two can lead the way if she doesn't want me in front." It's clear that Lorena got the gist of the conversation, even if she didn't hear the specifics. Just as well - even though she can handle herself in a fight, she isn't quite built for it, and the others look much sturdier and braver than her dainty self. "Now...which path should we take? It looks like one is going up and the other down, but past that, who knows?"

[Elemental]

"It seems sensible to take the path leading up as that would lead us closer to the city above, though that reasoning relies on many assumptions," Sandulf said as he stepped closer to the nobleman. He held out his candlestick, offering it to the man. "A light for you Milord, to free up my shield arm."

[Celticbear]

The man warily takes it.

[Historian Pike]

Noticing Sandulf passing the nobleman a candle, the bloodrager sighed and went ahead to put out his torch. No point in carrying it if they had both a spell of light and a candle lit, and it would free up his hand to better wield his blade, "Anyways... assumptions are all we have to go on at the moment, so I say we follow the path of ascension."

[NiKkatsu]

Having assessed that the others seem harmless enough, Wellby comes out of hiding. He pauses an instant to make an impression on the others and starts scurrying through his knapsack without a word. He takes out a small ball of cotton and starts to unwrap it. You all see a brown paste in the palm of the halflings hand. As he walks toward the lady with the broken leg he speaks: No fear. I am a friend, misfortunate of fate, as you all. They call me Wellby Feytongue; pleased to meet you all - although I wish it was in better circumstance. Now miss, this here is a poultice, handmade with fresh medicinal herbs from my forest. I am going to apply it to your wound as it should help heal your broken leg - or at least alleviate the pain.

He crouches near the woman and meets her gaze with a smile to reassure her. He gently presses the paste to the wound and wraps the cotton around her leg. Then, pressing his other hand to the bandage, the halfling gestures and mutters a quick word. Water imbibes the bandage. He takes a second to make sure the bandage is well put, nods in satisfaction and turns to the others, hands on his hips. 'I'm coming too.' he says, smiling.

[roll0] for potion of cure light wounds. The spell cast was simply create water

[HappyMerecat]

Etherian

Etherian looks at Algune. "If we are going on assumptions, you might want to assume the worst of me as well. I was born with the taint of demons in my blood, I just don't look it." He looks away.
"What do you mean by the path of ascension?"

[Elemental]

"One path leads upward, the other down. The ascending path seems the most immediately logical path to take an if no one has any cause to doubt that course of action they are encouraged to speak up," said Sandulf as he drew his sword and shield in preparation for whatever awaited them in the darkness, "Otherwise we have delayed long enough and I for one have no desire to remain here a moment longer."

[theasl]

Lorena wishes her wings, tucked inside her armor but still visible, weren't just useless stubs...though perhaps it's safer down here than on the surface facing down rampaging demons. Then again, nobody's goals would be advanced by just hiding in a hole forever. "Well, let's go then, no point in hanging around here." She starts off towards the exit, stopping to peer up the dim pathway.

perception again...[roll0]

edit: forgot about Wellby...let's assume she is doing this as the halfling exits stealth

[Historian Pike]

Before Algune could respond to Etherian, the strange halfling came before them, speaking suddenly and catching the bloodrager off-guard. In a flash, his hands grabbed his blade's grip, ready for an attack... the only thing that eased his suspicion was the man's willingness to help the young woman who looked ready to shamble along with them. If he was an enemy, would he waste a magical elixir upon them...? "Algune mac Trálín, Wellby," He would trust the halfling for now, at least until he saw more of his character.

Turning back to Etherian, the Ulfen shook his head, "Assumptions about pathways, not about others. Your blood does not scare another afflicted with its curse, and my lord, the son of Dispater, is now the General of Heaven's armies. What we are born as... it does not determine who we are. And as for the path of ascension, the one on the left, of course. Just as Sandulf said."

"In any case, let us follow the left path then."

[HappyMerecat]

Etherian

Etherian follows, guiding Aravashnial and keeps an eye on Anievia as well as close enough to help her if need be.

[Celticbear]

The left path that slants upward appears to have been a campsite to adventurers long dead. The killers, two giant cockroaches, are starting to advance on you, hoping for a second meal.

Here's how initiative will work: I roll for the NPCs (including the ones on your side), take the average of the roll, and that is the NPC initiative. You guys will all roll, take the average on all of your rolls combined, and that will be the PC initiative. All of you act on the PC initiative, and al of the NPCs will act on the NPC initiative.

Anievia: [roll0]
Aravashnial: [roll1]
Horgus Gwen (Nobleman): [roll2]
Giant Cockroaches: [roll3]

NPC initiative is 14. Round down if it's a decimal, no matter how high the decimal is.

[Historian Pike]

Algune scoffed as he saw the cockroaches charging at them. No point in wasting his true strength upon them. "Al, let us slay these creatures!" He shouted at his friend while readying his sword, ready to bisect the first cockroach that grew close to him.

[roll0] Also, not going to use my rage for this fight.

[theasl]

Lorena spots the bugs quickly, fleeing back to the relative safety of the group. «Giant bugs!», she shouts...but what comes out is definitely not in common.

yesssss......abyssal :smallamused:

initiative [roll0] edit: hahaha wow dragging everyone down sorry

[Elemental]

Sandulf raises his sword and shield, ready to fight the overgrown vermin.

[roll0]

[NiKkatsu]

Wellby raises his staff and wooden shield, ornated with the symbol of a butterfly who's upper wings contain stars and lower wings, the sun and moon. He seems conflicted over attacking the roaches. 'I am sorry' he whispers as he advances on them with the others.

[roll0] and throw in a +2 from my adaptable luck

[Celticbear]

The cockroaches screech a war screech as one charges at Algune, and one charges to Sandulf.

Horgus squeals in terror, and gets behind Lorena

Anievia wishes she had enough hands for her longbow.

Aravashnial asks, <What giant bugs?> in abyssal.

Battlebugs! They're like battletoads, but nobody likes them.

Charge V Algune: [roll0]
Charge V Sandulf: [roll1]
Damage V Algune (If hit): [roll2]
Damage V Sandulf (if hit): [roll3]
Critical Confirm V Algune (If Threat): [roll4]
Critical Confirm V Sandulf (If Threat): [roll5]
Critical Damage V Algune (If Crit): [roll6]
Critical Damage V Sandulf (If Crit): [roll7]
EDIT: No Crits

[Historian Pike]

Algune snarled as he allowed the beast to draw close, letting it take the first strike into his leg. The pain was agonizing for a brief moment as he winced before swinging his blade, allowing the strike to fuel his natural rage at the beast. Call not upon Ragathiel's blessing against such creatures; his rage is only for the corrupted and guilty. The words echoed in his mind as he cut the beast at his legs, like he had done hundred of times before in practice, "Begone, sniveling vermin!"

Two-Handed Great Sword Power Attack with Furious Focus, no penalty, striking bug that bit Algune: [roll0]
Damage if the bug is hit, 2d6 from greatsword, 6 from two-handing it and thus getting 1.5x my STR mod, and another 3 from two-handed Power Attack which makes the bonus +3 instead of just +2: [roll1]

[theasl]

Lorena turns back as soon as she's out of immediate danger, then approaches and stabs at a roach with her spear, yelling «Die, bug!»

just in case you couldn't tell by now, guillemets are for abyssal (or another non-common language if she ever learns one, in which case I'll make sure to clarify).

actions: move 10 ft away from the nearest roach (the one on the right, if they're the same distance), preferably diagonally behind the person it just attacked, then attack!
attack [roll0] (crit confirm [roll1])
damage [roll2] (crit dmg [roll3])

[HappyMerecat]

Etherian

Seeing the great beetles rush forward and attack Etherian moves closer to the front line and gestures with his hand speaking mystic words. The closest cockroach shimmers and shifts each multiple eye dividing into two.

Move within 10 ft of the front liners. Use Warp touch (http://www.d20pfsrd.com/classes/core-classes/sorcerer/archetypes/paizo-sorcerer-archetypes/wildblooded/mutated-bloodlines-paizo/warped) on the closest roach. It is not a touch attack regardless of the name. DC 15 fort save or dazed for 1 round.

[Elemental]

Despite his best efforts the roach seems more dexterous than Sandulf initially assumed as he is taken somewhat by surprise as it gets a good swipe in against the skald's arm. Even though it hurts like hell he brings down his sword against the insect's chitinous shell in retaliation.

Attacking the roach that went for Sandulf: [roll0]
Damage if the hit is successful: [roll1]
Critical? [roll2]
Critical damage? [roll3]

[Silent Justice]

Almive snarls, gets into Snapping Turtle stance, and charges the roach next to Lorena, attempting to kick it right in between its horrible little eyes.

[roll0]
If hit [roll1]

[Celticbear]

Both roaches die in the barrage of attacks. The fight is over.

[Historian Pike]

Algune cursed under his breath as his strike missed, slicing only into air. Had he grown rusty on the journey to Mendev? Dammit, don't think of that, just swing again and correct your form later! However, before the young man could strike again, the others squashed the bugs, leaving him with nothing to strike. Damn, too slow... His face return to a stoic expression as he berated himself internally, sheathing his blade before moving to clasp his hands together. The battle was over - now was the holy time of Ragathiel when one could not pray before a struggle, and he would not fail in his duties.

"Ragathiel, your wings have guided and guarded me against suffering, and you have guided my companions' hands in striking down our enemy. Your glory has aided us in our quest, and as your servant, I thank you for all of us. Remain with us, my Lord, so that we may repay your enemies' crimes with vengeance," The bloodrager recited quickly in a whisper as not to alert any other creatures or bother the others, eyes closing briefly for the prayer. It was over in only a few seconds, and he returned to reality, looking about the ruined campsite. Perhaps it would be worth searching through its remains?

Perception to search for anything useful: [roll0]

[theasl]

The red fog clears from Lorena's mind as she finds herself stabbing a dead roach over and over, demonic whispers ringing in her ears. She quickly snaps back to her senses, looking around to get her bearings. Cautiously, she approaches the campsite and looks it over for anything useful.

perception [roll0]

is this a dead end (as I'd guessed) or does the path continue?

[Elemental]

Sandulf sighed with relief at the end of battle, murmuring a short prayer of thanks to the gods. He then looked to the abandoned campsite, moving to examine it. "We should search this camp. Though I am not one for stealing from the dead we have no way of knowing how long we will remain down here and these unfortunate souls have no need for whatever remains of their supplies any more..."

Searching the camp: [roll0]

[NiKkatsu]

Wellby watches in horror as the demonic individual keeps stabbing the corpse of the beast she slew, seemingly taking pleasure in the carnage. She finally stays her hand, but the halfling feels unease. Can this person really be trusted ? He will keep an eye open...

Seeing that the others all turned their attention to the abandoned campsite, Wellby decides to do the same..

1d20+7

edit: rolled in OoC. got 8 :(

[Celticbear]

The camp site reveals to you all 10 feet of hemp robe, and a brooch that looks like a bat. The brooch is worth about 200 gp.

[Silent Justice]

"Hmph. I hate bugs. They're incredibly irritating."

[Historian Pike]

"Could be worse; could have been an actual threat," Algune countered in response to Almive's agitation towards the roaches. Quickly, he moved to pack away the extra few feet of rope into his bag without a word, before eyeing the brooch. Strange... I don't know of any demons claiming a bat as their insignia... Picking it up with a slight hesitation, wondering if it was cursed before grabbing it, he held up the little thing for the others to see, "Perhaps on the surface, we can trade for supplies with it?"

[theasl]

A bat brooch...could it have some sort of significance? There's a nagging feeling in Lorena's head that she should know a thing or two about that, though she's not sure why.

knowledge religion perhaps? [roll0]

[Historian Pike]

"Well, for now, we should move on," Algune slipped the brooch away into his bag as no one but Lorena seemed to take much notice of the brooch, making sure they saw which pocket it went into. They could worry over it later; they needed to continue to follow the tunnel, and taking his sword with both hands once again, the Ulfen made the decision to lead them. Watch over me, General, and shield this warrior from evil's jaws with your wings...

[Celticbear]

You come to an intersection with two paths other than than the one you came through. One goes back into a direction you think you came from, the other moves forward. Neither one seems to escalate or descend.

[Historian Pike]

"Strange..." Algune took note of how the path that seemed to head backwards didn't descend or ascend. Did it lead to the other path forward from the first chamber? It didn't seem to descend... "Does anyone else wonder if that path unites with the other one?"

[HappyMerecat]

Etherian

Etherian casts a spell and examines the bat broach, suspecting it might be magic of some sort.

Casts detect magic
Perception [roll0]

[Celticbear]

The brooch is mundane, it just looks scary.

[NiKkatsu]

Wellby examines both pathways carefully, feeling for even the slightest breeze, attentive to any subtle hint from the surrounding environment as to which path may lead him out of here.

[roll0]+2 halfling luck (cuz we be rollin' ****tily)

[Celticbear]

You have a person with a broken leg, so the way crevice leads is a no go. Seems like the only way forward is forward.

[theasl]

Lorena can't think of why the brooch seems familiar, and Algune puts it away before she can really study it - for the better, she should focus on getting out of here instead of worrying about some silly trinket. She then inches forwards towards the path again, scanning for any sign of anything.

jus keep rolling perception [roll0]

edit: roll well = useless, nothing to see, I bet

[Celticbear]

Lorena hears a faint hissing in the direction that goes forward.

[theasl]

Falling back a little, Lorena says: "There's something up ahead, be careful."

[HappyMerecat]

Etherian

Etherian takes the elf's arm again and looks in the direction Lorena is looking.

Perception [roll0]

[NiKkatsu]

Wellby beats himself to death with his quarterstaff because this game seems to be over and his existence has no more purpose... He cries a little.

[Elemental]

Sandulf looks forward, trying to peer through the gloom. Of course, his hearing would no doubt be more valuable in this instance. "What do you see Lorena?"

[roll0]

[theasl]

"I don't see anything...but I hear something. A faint...hissing?"

I don't believe anyone knows Lorena's name yet, FYI

[theasl]

Nobody seems to be taking the lead, but there's no way out of here but forward. Lorena proceeds up the path, scanning carefully in the dark.

[Elemental]

Not wanting to go into the darkness with some form of hissing animal up ahead, Sandulf intones a short phrase and conjures up a group of four floating lights that he sends down the passage, hopefully revealing whatever it is that Lorena (whose name he does not know despite what previous statements would indicate) heard.

Just a Dancing Lights to illuminate what's ahead.

[Celticbear]

There is another empty room.

[theasl]

Lorena looks around.

perception i guess [roll0]

if nothing, keep going.

[Elemental]

"Well... Seems you misheard then?" Sandulf started to cross the empty room to the presumed exit on the other side.