You mount up and move out about midday the Templars likely have a 5 hour head start.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 1):

"We should only need food, as I can create water as we go to lighten our load. Perhaps Rascallion can fly up and kill a nice deer ahead of us...or scout for the enemy, but he will need to stay well clear of them."

Pity he can't scare or hinder their Horses ...

Wulfe hadn't dallied to converse or give plans. People had ensured the safety of Oakwood and he would present his offer to the King and Queen upon his return, should Chloe and the babe be returned safely.

"If Rascallion can fly.. have him head out as far as he can and as high as he can to try and spot the fleeing Templars. I suppose they'll be heading towards Megalos, my guess to the nearest city so he should be able to spot them at least and lead us in the right direction.

We make haste.

he said as he kicked his horse, Cutlass into a fast gallop.

Slow some good Ser or your horse will fail within the hour... a steady trot will serve you better.  On of the old Cavalry troopers says.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 5):

Thomas asked Rascallion to try to locate them as he followed Wulfe at a trot.

[OOC: How many rations did they spare for the horses?]

Just Oats, as there is adequate grazing. say 8 days worth

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 7):

[OOC: and Human rations?]

In reply to Thomas O'Leary (msg # 8):

they gave you 18 travel rations per person

Wulfe growled but eventually slowed.

"Aye, a dead horse is no good, eh?" he sighed out, resigned.

Aye, but we have oats and I'll bet they don't which may cause their horses some bloating , be sure to tire them more quickly too.  the old Cavalry man said.

Wulfe nodded "Well if the horses can't make it at a gallop then we can go. But time is important, we need to follow as closely as possible "

Aye and a steady trot with regular rests will cover the most ground quickly. Less they got a knowledgable rider among them, we'll catch 'em soon enough.

Wulfe growled under his breath. The current mood did not support any form of tactic that involved patience. He was eager and could feel the anticipation of what was to come as he replayed the fantasies of his blade cutting flesh.

"What's Rascallion say Tom?

In reply to Wulfe The Pretty (msg # 14):

He's only been gone for less then an hour... he hasn't seen anything.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 15):

"He is still out, and has not been gone long. But he has not seen anything so far..."

He growled again, his impatience showing through.

"Templars have magic, right? How will you stop them turning one of us to stone? he said with a grimace, remembering the encounter with no fondness. (OOC: asking all the wizards)

It will be night fall before Rascalluon returns,
He relays that they are about an hours flight ahead, but took a less travelled road  headed more East than south; they don’t expect pursuit as they have magically erased thei tracks for several miles from the turn off. Chloe has been drugged or magically in capacitated. They have not been gentle, but aren’t especially mean either and none seem to have taken any liberties with her. Their horses are exhausted and they will likely need to find new mounts.

The old soldier insists that you stop and rest, both the Horses and the People.

Wulfe had one hand on the reins and the other gripping the hilt of his sword until his knuckles were white. Drugged, and magically incapacitated. (OOC: do we know the state of treatment). He was relieved to find that they hadn't taken advantage of her, or treated her roughly but seethed at the thought that it could yet still happen.

He was stiff as he set down for camp but after having heard the information he asked "What's an hours flight on horse? How long before we catch up?"

In reply to Wulfe The Pretty (msg # 19):

"Still a couple of hours by horse I am afraid. But the good news is that they will not be racing, as they believe they have escaped. If they have been using magic for several miles, some of them will be magically fatigued in addition to the fatigue from travel.

With regards to Magic, the best defence is to not let them cast the spell, or touch you. Failing that, we just do as we can..."

Overnight two different groups attempt to attack your camp. The first group runs in terror when Jaeleen calls up a fireball; Herkimer later tells her bad thinking, but good outcome ... fireballs near your camp in the forest is unwise.

The second group attacks in the wee hours of the morning, but the horses alerted the guards who had everyone up and ready; the fight was very short when they realized you were ready for them and they quickly withdrew. Both just seemed to be wandering groups of Mercenaries trying to escape.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 21):

Any chance of capturing any prisoners?

In reply to Thomas O'Leary (msg # 22):

Yes, you grab one from the second group. Typical mercenary, just trying to get out of Oakwood... basically they had no food and little money, local towns meet them with open pitchforks.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 23):

Can we offer a small amount of cash or food for information on the Templars? He will, of course, be expected to accompany us until such information can be shown to be accurate in order to get paid...

Wulfe had hold of the man by the collar and all but threw him into the middle of the camp "Attack us while we sleep will you!" then proceeded to kick the man in the ribs..

It took a while for Wulfe to calm down, but he didnt press the man too hard and eventually realised that he was caught up in the anger.

"Sit down there... and you try to escape or anything funny and I'll geld you myself" he snarled at the man.

Noting that THomas was moving forward to try a more finessed appraoch, Wulfe just became stoic again and sat by their small fire, and started chewing on some cooked meat. Close enough to listen but otherwise unengaging with their captive.

The man is duly terrified by Wulfe and is very hard to get much out of, but it quickly becomes clear he doesn't know a thing a bout Templars.
He isn't very knowledgable about anything except a man names Gwund gathered up the group and is the leader. They have no food and the locals are unfriendly.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 26):

Do they have access to Horses? Would they be interested in assisting us in hunting Templars for some food and pay?

They do not have horses and he isn't sure about working... have to talk to Gwund.

Ooc:

I got the impression we only captured one?

In reply to Wulfe The Pretty (msg # 29):

You did, and he was asked about his group.

"Guess you get what's coming to you, eh? " Wulfe said grimly, while chewing on some of their provisions.

Whad ya mean? the man asks somewhat fearfully.

The soldiers point out that this man is of little use and will slow the pursuit significantly, they want to just send him on his way and get moving.

Wulfe nodded "We're not feeding him, and one man can't do any damage by himself...cut him loose, and then we carry on.

He stepped over to the fearful man and looked down at him "I reckon law would say I have to put a blade through you. Instead, I'm going to cut you loose, and let you think about making a better life of the one I've let you keep he said before remounting.

They turn him loose and he runs back the way he came from, looking back in fear every so often. The rest of you ride out, again making good time; Rascalluon points out the turn to make, then heads off to see where the Templars are now.  sometime after Midday you pass a camp site that looks to have been theirs.
He returns sometime after mid afternoon and says you have gained noticeably on them. His estimate is that you will come up upon them around midday tomorrow. The Templars horses are blown and being pressed on anyway. They have taken some horses by force, but these were farm animals and haven't speeded them up much. He feels the Lady Chloe is not doing well, although still drugged or spellbound.

You ride on as far as you dare, then camp. You make a fire and mount guards, getting as much rest as you can ... the Cavalrymen go to lengths to rub down and care for the horses, spending several hours doing so... this night there is only one interuption and Jaeleen makes her fire ball, which sends them fleeing  A useful tool, even if you dare not throw it she says.

"Then, lets see if you can make those Templars fear the fire as well as the blade. Before killing them, it'd be wise to find out what they're doing this side of the border... so if you're going to throw that thing, aim at their horse.

Wulfe said grimly.

"We'll be coming up on them soon. Lets get as close as we can before letting them see us. I want any of you with a bow to make sure none of them put a blade to Chloe when we attack. The rest of you focus on the others, I'm going to get her.

I will scout ahead, you can be sure they have a scout watching their rear.

In reply to Rascalluon (msg # 37):

"Excellent work, Rascallion. I am sure Wulfe will see to it that is is worthwhile. Wulfe, I can briefly make you invisible to infiltrate the camp and get close to her to protect her, but it will be draining, and I may be able to do little else. It will become of less use if you attack though. You will only have 4 minutes...max."

"Any of you good with a bow? He asked, after acknowledging Thomas's idea.

"Am I unable to attack if iinvisible?

In reply to Wulfe The Pretty (msg # 39):

"Oh, you can attack alright, but you kind of loose the element of surprise, making continued expenditure of energy less beneficial."

"And what should we be doing?"
Herkimer stands near Jaeleen, his arms crossed.

"A distraction? A frontal assault? Perhaps we should flank and throw distracting balls of fire to draw their attention in multiple directions..."

Or see how they are set and then make plans based on reality the old soldier volunteers.

You all ride on... it's close to midday when Rascalluon flies in to a nearby tree and bids you all halt.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 43):

"What is it, my friend?"

Just past yon tree line there is a field and more trees where a templar is watching this road. A small river to the north prevents anyone coming around unseen that way, to the South is a village with a path to where the Templars currently rest and another which goes out East and then runs into this road someways on. Given the distances and trees, I think you could pass around them and catch them when they leave.
Or you could just charge on in, as their horses can't go on with out more rest. The Lady is not well and is having stomach cramps. The Templars magic and first aid is only helping a little.

In reply to Rascalluon (msg # 45):

"To me, to catch them in the night while most sleep sounds the best option...targeting Chloe and their horses simultaneously. That way, they will have to pick what they defend, dividing their forces. Rascallion and I can take dragonic for to target the horses, spooking them, with just 2 guards to open the gates...while Wulfe goes in Invisible to get to Chloe as quickly as possible, the other guards dealing with the sentries."

That will work, although who knows where they will stop. The river is none too far from here, I saw it when flying about.

In reply to Rascalluon (msg # 47):

"They have not stopped for the night?"

"Can you invisible Wulfe long enough for him to disable the scout watching the road? That will give us the most direct route and element of surprise!"

Wulfe rubbed his hands together and grinned "Ill go kill their watch, we go soon. If Chloe is in need, then we have to get to her as fast as possible he said.

He went to stand infront of THomas, and waited for it. "we'll need to get close enough for me to be able to get at him before the spell wears out"

Aye, and If'n I am right, he'll nay be makin' the horse invisible... or quiet! It be broad daylight, so mayhap better he makes you a bird ...
[it's roughly midday]

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 51):

"The soldier is right. If I make you invisible to kill the guard, it will be over an hour before I recover my strength to do it again to save Chloe. Don't we have a sniper or two?"

"We can share this burden Thomas, and I can lend you my own effort to help."

OOC: Do we have an archer/sniper/poacher/hunter at all?

In reply to Wulfe The Pretty (msg # 54):

Not really ... but there are several mages who can fly and do things...  Rascalluon can only breathe fire ... I assume a screaming, burning guard might serve their purpose, rather than yours.

And puddles of drool build up around everyone's feet.

ooc: waiting to hear about potentially providing assistance for energy

Jaeleen can provide you some ... You can become a Hawk. Either by reversing to human form or as a hawk, you could cast flesh to stone?

Or perhaps just teleport him somewhere behind your group, out of ear shot of the other templars.

Sorry, I was referring to the offer on the table to Thomas to make Wulfe invisible.

In reply to Herkimer (msg # 59):

Yes, but while a nice idea, it just doesn't work well here.

I also, uh, don't have flesh to stone.

Does Wulfe or the Templar weigh more than 132 lbs?

OOC: Wulfe definitely does

In reply to Herkimer (msg # 61):

And undoubtedly the Templar does as well.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 63):

Thomas has cast flesh to stone before....

But can he fly over there as something benign looking and still be able to cast the spell?

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 65):

If by benign looking you mean a small man-sized dragon, and by fly you mean walk, yes!

No, a Man sized Dragon walking toward the scout is likely to cause a significant alarm... the bluebird of happiness... no issues.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 67):

May have an issue, unless an illusion is used...

Wulfe considered "Can any of you ensure quiet? or prevent a man from speaking or calling out?  At this rate, the more mundane of us could simply erupt from the tree line on the back of a horse and run him down in surprise before he can make a call.

Anything that could magically aid this would be useful - but it's not an absolute requirement. We get by without mages sometimes he said with a wry grin.

"We can have anyone carrying a bow shoot at the enemy before the horse gets close, then at least a stray arrow could hit him, or disrupt him before the rider fell upon him Wulfe offered

Yes and too much magic may also tip your hand

OOC: We can just find the shortest part, and charge him down while popping a few arrows his way. Hopefully an arrow will hit him first, but the sword that follows will ensure his silence.

In reply to Wulfe The Pretty (msg # 69):

Wulfe, Give me a bit ... the direct approach will likely fail, but by passing the scout was suggested earlier

In reply to Wulfe The Pretty (msg # 71):

If you blew out of your tree line, he'd have time to yell and run... you might over take him before he got back to the group, but then they are templars and most if not all have some sort of magical ability. By going around south, through the village you come from a different direction, but they would likely have a scout posted there as well.
The key, if we are trying to keep the scout quiet, is to disable him some how and then sneak up on the main group. Otherwise you may as well all charge in and take the lumps that brings. The chance of failure is much high with that sort of approach.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 73):

"I can create an illusion, and give myself a gaseous body, but neither of those things will be of much help. Why do we not have any crossbow snipers available?"

I dunno ... guess you didn't ask for them... not sure there is/was such a thing, but good archers are known.

Wulfe considered the axe he kept on the back of his belt and then thought better of it. "Well, there's no point alerting them to our presence so early, lets wheel around and come through the village. We'll be able to blend in if we come the village way and have more cover if it comes to that.

We'll get closer either way he said and then kicked his horse to do just that, wheel around

The Others follow your lead around to the village, which is a poor sight up close, the inhabitants are all gaunt and thin, the children stare, but don't seem to play. Bellies are distended.

Jaeleen stifles a sob ... they are starving, the bastard is killing them all slowly.

They watch you from door ways with sullen eyes.

A path headed back north is clearly seen, it's about 120 yards to the tree line from where you are within the village

Perception rolls.

OOC: 20:08, Today: Wulfe The Pretty rolled 9 using 3d6.  perception. // pass by 3


Wulfe slowed his horse and scanned the village, looking round at the inhabitants. They were a sorry sight, starved and weak and vulnerable. They had suffered because of Brance and the pain he already suffered was multiplied at their sight.

He gestured for one of them to come closer Brance, the former lord of Oakwood is who we pursue. If i'd known he treated you folk like this, I'd have killed him long ago... but be assured he will meet his end soon. the genuine sorrow he felt for the people was apparent on his pained face.

"How did you grow so starved? Did he ban the farming or tax you all too hard? he asked, with righteousness matching his fury for a brief moment.

The man approaches Wulfe fearfully ...  They took all our harvest...said we had time to grow more, but few have the strength to tend the plants. Several are close to  ... to meeting their maker. Kids too.... ain' had a decent meal since late last summer. Got nothin' ta offer ye 'cept water.

You catch a glint of metal in the tree line to the north. Then the distant whinny of a horse.

Wulfe looked off to the glint and then heard the sound of a horse. "Fuck..." he said.

"We'll be back, and help with food! he said before kicking his horse and heading to intercept any scout that may be riding.

"With me!" he called, charging after the scout. </royalred>"shoot!"</royalred> he called to those with bows.

None of your men have bows... As you close, you see a mounted rider looking back toward you in surprise and another dismounted man looking out from the bushes... You just interrupted a shift change. The Mounted rider spurs his horse while the other man disappears behind the bushes.

"After them!" he said and kiced his horse into a full gallop, after shrugging off the bow he'd taken, and the pack of quivers, so that they would fall on the floor in the village.

He then chased them. He felt his mouth salivate as the hunt began.

Behind him 12 men at arms pounded along, swords out ... the man from behind the bushes bolts out and follows the first rider ... no more than 20 or so feet in front of Wulfe. He looks back and fear fills his face.  You know the first rider must be to the group, but no yell has been made.

In reply to Wulfe The Pretty (msg # 82):

At the first sound, Thomas sent Rascallion to move around behind the noise. Now he hoped the creature would be able to stop the rider as he followed Wulfe, creating a stone missile as he rode and growing it to 3d over three rounds before throwing it at the rider.

Wulfe lets the horse have it's head and leans forward a bit to take the first possible swipe at this guy and is  surprised as a large object flashes by his head and smashes the rider from his saddle ... he falls to the left off the horse, which veers away and slows to a trot as he circles back toward the rider.

Wulfe rode past the de-horsed enemy and continued for the man on foot. The brief pause in the action and unexpected early fall of the rider had given Wulfe enough space to consider why the enemy weren't shouting.

"Find the other!" he called out, mutedly, to his fellow riders.

The man on foot was the one who mounted up and just got creamed.
Another rider, in front of him, is still ahead of you by perhaps 5 or 6 seconds and is out of sight.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 87):

Thomas looks around, trying to take it all in. He tries to raise another stone missile, but gets distracted.

Herkimer stays to the back of the group. This direct combat with so many was not what was meant to occur. They were a small force. He scowled and reached out with his mind to Chloe.

Chloe, can you hear the fighting? Are you safe? Are you close?


07:22, Today: Herkimer rolled 8 using 3d6.  Telepathy @14.

"Find the other! he hissed at the men and then kicked his horse intot he brush to look around for the man.

If they couldn't find him in the next moments or two, he'd just move forward.

In reply to Herkimer (msg # 89):

Groan...

In reply to Wulfe The Pretty (msg # 90):

OOC - OK, the man in the bush mounted up and  rode off in front of you, he just took a stone missile from Thomas.... the other fellow is 5-6 seconds ahead of you... and at a full gallop you follow him down a path in the woods...  Ahead of through the trees you you see a group milling around in front of you and a line of horses.

"Well, as good as time as any! he said and kicked his horse in to full charge.

OOC: I presume that's the enemy, and they're unprepared I guess a horse at full whack can run at least 10 move, meaning I suspect the horse would get there in only a few moments - would likely justify surprise attack?

As you charge around some trees and into their midst you find some trying to mount horses, some trying to fight on foot and confusion... a stone missile flies by your head literally brushing your helmet, turning it slightly to the right. A Templar raises his shield and has his sword ready to strike just to your right front ... on the left is a templar waving his arms and making colors and flames in front of himself.
Your soldiers are hard on your heels.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 94):

Thomas rides in behind Wulfe, attempting to once again create a stone missile, this time more successfully, so he grows it to 2d. Seeing the one casting, he throws the missile at him.

Wulfe wanted to kick his horse in the flank to speed towards the casting mage, but instead he turned the horse to trot off out of immediate reach of the swordsman, before he got far enough out of range though Wulfe took a swinging swipe at the man to throw his rhythm.

OOC: 13:47, Today: Wulfe The Pretty rolled 6 using 3d6.  swing (Random location).
/// CRITICAL HIT! woo
/// 13:48, Today: Wulfe The Pretty rolled 12 using 3d6.  swing (Random location).
/// 13:48, Today: Wulfe The Pretty rolled 12 using 3d6.  critical effect.
// (No special effect, Body location)
// 13:49, Today: Wulfe The Pretty rolled 9 using 1d6+5.  Damage (cutting).


Upon trotting out of the way of immediate threat, Wulfe opted to fight on the ground, and dismounted while keeping check for all defense required.

In reply to Thomas O'Leary (msg # 95):

He loses concentration as he dodges the missile, two men behind him both dodge it as well...

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 97):

Thomas will create another stone missile, looking for targets to hit with it as it grows in his hand.

General combat breaks out ...  Your mounted men have an advantage and take full benefit of it, with four of the Templars going down;  several try to flee but none make it away except for the Scout you had avoided, who pulls up his horse, spins and rides off ... Wulfe, Jaeleen and Herkimer see it, but everyone is involved in combat or staying out of it and he escapes.

Chloe is found shivering in her cape and moaning ...  everyone seeks to comfort and help her, but it is Jaeleen who says It's the Baby , take her back to the Village and hope they have a good midwife ... and bring all the food from here ... those people need it.

Wulfe had hacked and slashed at the men and showed no hesitation in his determined silvery swings. But it was over so quickly, too soon, he thought momentarily as he wiped off the gore from his weapon on the tunic of a fallen enemy. He hadn't even drawn the second blade, he thought wryly when comparing their ability against his own.

Reaching Chloe, he lifted her himself and carried her back to the village. Only if she and Jaleen, the other woman that seemed to know of these things, insisted she be on the back of a horse would he let her have his. But otherwise he would carry and make sure she was safe.

It took a moment before his consciousness seemed to come racing back "Thank you" he offered to everyone present.

"You! Go see if the village has anyone that can help with a baby" he said, trying to mask the shaking in his voice, to one of the men on horseback.

There is an older woman waiting as you carry her into the village... she has a quick look at Chloe, then points to a building, take her there and place her on the bed ... I will tend her... and You, yes you (Jaeleen), come assist me. Men stay outside ...

Did anyone bring Food?

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 101):

Thomas looks over the situation, looking for the mages that escaped and ensuring all were indeed dead, except for the highest ranked survivor who he would turn to stone. He gathers what equipment of theirs he can.

"Sir, since we have recovered Chloe, might I suggest we keep only minimal supplies for the trip back, and give the rest of our supplies and those captured from the Templars to the villagers?"

OOC: I guess we did bring food, at least enough to last all the people that went for a while.

"Aye, lets make sure everything is okay for now, we can share what food we have and while we're here, it'd be best if some of our men took some of the villagers out to hunt he said, anticipating that they might stay for a day or two, to let recovery happen.

Your men also bring all 8 horses the Templars had gathered back to the village and gift them to the locals... Most are not in good shape, having been abused to make time. After some healing they will be able to do light to moderate work, but will never be decent riding horses again.  Two maybe able to be sold as riding animals after some healing. One may be needed for Chloe ...

The Midwife is quite concerned and has various herbs gathered, Jaeleen only objects to one ... the two discuss it and the mid wife agrees to Jaeleen's way.  She later looks to Wulfe and says  you did not tell me you brought a healer .. she knows near all I have learned and is but a very young woman.

Wulfe shrugged at the midwife and then offered "that young woman seems to be full of knowledge beyond my own ken, some of it seems to have come with her, but she also has a good teacher. he said and then gestured to Jaleen and Herkimer.

"All of these people with me seem to know things that I do not, it becomes more and more apparent every day" he said with with a wry grin.


"Take care of her..." he said to both the midwife and Jaleen, there was a hint of desperation to his voice and the small plea was something that punctuated well his previous admission of knowing very little about some things. Women, pregnancy and all those things were beyond him and so, to stop his mind tormenting him Wulfe went to occupy himself.

"Lets get some food and meat for these folk" he said to Herkimer and Thomas and the surrounding men.

"Any horses that are going lame, give them to the butcher and lets make sure everyone here gets fed properly.

None were Lame... But the templars had killed a deer and butchered a part of it... there was quite a bit left hanging, plenty for a roast and a stew on the morrow. Most all the people can eat only a very small portion as their stomach's have shrunk so....

"alright, lets cook up some of that deer, let people take what they need but make sure everybody gets some. If we're going to stay here while Chloe recovers, then we'll pull our weight.

Hugh, take three men and see if you can go find the templar that got away. IF you can, bring him back alive..

Hugh rides off and won't be seen for about three days... he comes back empty handed, but with another best horse... the Templar took a boat across the river and left the horse ... no saddle bags,  but the saddle is still on it.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 108):

Thomas will spend his time healing, both Chloe, villagers and their own men, as well as ensuring plenty of fresh clean water.

The Mid-wife will have you hold off, as there are two lives that would be affected and it could cause a premature birth or other undesirable effect. Chloe has stabilized some, but the rough treatment is causing her to bleed and the baby was placed in serious distress.

Wulfe's frown had returned, as had his pacing. "I'll kill them all he muttered to himself, in thought.

"What do you know of these Templars?" he asked his assembled group, after pausing a moment.

Herkimer shrugs as he takes a blanket to settle on the ground into a meditative seat, he needed to recover a bit from the exertions of the day. Jaeleen was off earning her keep and Chloe was in a state beyond his control, or help even. As he contemplated the universe and all that was around him Wulfe's question crept through to his consciousness.

"I am unfamiliar with them, and much of Megalos. Though if information is what we need perhaps we can reach out to the Academy and request pertinent information to be sent or forwarded. Otherwise I have little to which I can contribute at the moment. Unless we need to move somplace quickly or scare someone."

ooc: in a quick check of the FP expenditure I think the only recent thing Herkimer did was Telepathy so I'm assuming a quick rest of thirty minutes should bring him back up to full FP.

During the night Chloe gives birth, she is again in serious distress and the mages are summoned...

We need to stop her bleeding. It is life or death now. The midwife relates  The Baby is not healthy and is much too early ... we will do all we can, but I give it no great chances.

OOC - OK... I need some healing efforts...

Herkimer joins the women, sharing a glance with Jaeleen. There were two bodies here, both in distress. Power, healing... magic. Finally, admist the fighting and chasing and feeling generally useless Herkimer was once again within his element.

Herkimer reached out, squeezed Jaeleen's hand and bade the midwife to make the babe comfortable, and the same for Chloe. They needed as much power as possible.

"Wulfe - gather all who know of us, our efforts and are well-wishers for Cloe and her baby. Be sure you know of their intent, those who would wish us harm are NOT needed. We need their prayers, well wishes, and they need to be gathered around this building. We will use their emotions, their help to heal these two - it is not good. No GO!"

Within the building Herkimer waved over Jaeleen and Thomas. "If we work in concert we can achieve much, whichever is most versed in healing should lead the effort, and... and must also wield the staff, this, the gift from the elves. And we must move quickly. I anticipate that we should Read their Bodies, search for clues as the most meaningful cure, and proceed from there. If only they require healing I am quite adept at both minor and major varieties. Also, curing disease, though little more."
This message was last edited by the player at 18:26, Thu 27 Dec 2018.

The Academy showed me a talent I have to analyze people who are not well ... let me see if I can read each of them...

Chloe - 8

Baby - 6

Chloe bleeds on the inside from giving birth, she is very weak from mistreatment. the bleeding must be stopped.

The Baby is weak and was not ready to be born... it struggles to breathe and will need to nurse, but Chloe is in no condition to feed it, is there any woman in the village who can nurse it?

Wulfe once again was reduced to manic, wided eyed terror and nodded to the WIzard. He then ran to get Hugh and those that had shared the longest time with them, of whom he knew the allegiance.

"come with me!" he said with a fervor that allowed now debate. When he'd gathered the people, he ran inside the building with the rest of them and fell to his knees, holding his arm out to the wizards. "Take everything you can, give it to them...." he said as the rest piled in.

OOC: Not sure exactly who is there, but I expect that any of the people that had been with us prior to the Oakwood fiasco, or from any of the earlier points on it would be endeared enough to Chloe (or even perahps Wulfe) to lend their full support.

Naturally, Wulfe is out of his depth and a little manic at the moment.

Wulfe's Brief sortie for help brings Hugh and 9 other soldiers running.


Over the next few minutes 10 more men will come in and offer help. (assume 11 Fatigue per person. Hugh has 13 and Wulfe the same).

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 117):

Thomas, who also knows some healing magic, will help as much as he can...

In reply to Thomas O'Leary (msg # 118):

It will likely help... given all the healing talents available, Chloe's bleeding is stopped and she is resting a bit easier.  A wet nurse is found and she does her best to feed the tiny child ... later they put the baby to Chloe's breast to ease her discomfort and to get the colostrum (milk for new borns) ... the Baby is still fighting for life, but he is no quitter. It is a He! The Midwife says it will be about two days before Chloe can travel ... and then they need to get her and the Baby to someplace with access to very good care. She has no idea of where that may be, but all of you conclude she needs to go to Carricke.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 119):

Seeing the desperation on Wulfe, Thomas tries one more spell. Warning Wulfe that the full results usually take a month, he learns all he can from all those who have gone before him and examined the child, before he begins casting. On completion, he collapses, having drained himself and his magical dagger to within an inch on passing out...

Jaeleen kneels beside Thomas and casts Lend energy... Thomas feels the flow into him and is able to rise and regenerate FP on his own now.... Jaeleen does much the same.

After suckling on Chloe's bloated breasts, the Baby seems to gain some strength... the Midwife is delighted, but then Jaeleen orders her to bed. She has been up well over 24 hours with all of this.  Jaeleen maintains the watch. She converses briefly with Chloe when she awakens for brief periods and has Wulfe brought in for one or two of these episodes too; The Baby is given Mom's breast about every three to four hours, whether Mom is awake or not.  By that afternoon she is able to coax Chloe into eating some food.  That evening the Midwife returns, rested and orders Jaeleen to bed with a smile ... she gets one in return and Jaeleen heads off to find Herkimer after filling in the midwife on the past hours progress.

Wulfe, spent as much time as he was allowed kneeling to the side of Chloe and the child and every phew minutes blew out a deep sigh of relief to that became more apparent as the strength returned to both.

The grin returned as he said "You did it, my lady" with a grin. "We have a pup! he said, before stifling his own excitement, thinking that it might be too much for her weakened state.

"Rest another few days and we will return to Carrick." he said, before leaving her to rest.

"Oakwood is ours, but this incursion of the Templars is concerning... can we send word to the king and queen to tell of our arrival to Carrick, and that Oakwood is awaiting new lordship... I had hoped to request that Chloe be placed there, as a wedding gift of sorts... but given the unfortunate circumstances, maybe it will have to be done differently.

It takes another day before Chloe can even sit up. There are some bruises now slowly fading from her treatment by the Templars...   Most  of the templars were fair and as gentle as they could be, but two were ugly and abused me whenever they could... the others sought to prevent it, but couldn't always catch them in time, although they did prevent any of them from taking  serious sexual liberties, which were obviously on their minds. They did have their hands in my top several times, one always squeezing painfully and he is the one who punched me in the belly ...

In reply to Chloe (msg # 124):

"Are they among the dead?"

Thomas will also look for the escaped two from the castle...

I have no idea... I am not sure where I am or how I got here.

The rough treatment, and Chloe's retelling of it set off Wulfe again, and he was angry. "We defeated some of them. I don't know if those that hurt you were part of that group. But for now, let us get you and the babe back to Carrick, so you can both gather strength and recover.
he offered gently, trying to hold back the obvious ill feeling he currently had to the Templars.

Maybe tomorrow, I couldn't ride right now... and I'll need a way to keep the baby wrm...and clean it up, as they mess regularly.

As Jaeleen finds Herkimer he cannot help but speak highly of her efforts and praise her abilities. "You were really quiet amazing! I'm assuming you've learned of all that through your time in your village?"<purple> He then dives into several questions about the body, mostly female and baby related material that he would be less familiar with. Seeing the fatigue on her face however he slowly comes to realize that the questions can wait and he gets food and drink. <DarkBlue>"Come, let us feed ourselves and rest, tomorrow is another day."

Herkimer looks up at the night sky and wonders how far Carrick is, before consulting the maps, and if that won't do then he'll find someone who does know. The faster they got Chloe and the babe to Carrick the quicker they could see to finding out more about the templars.

---

trying to determine whether a teleport would be... plausible.

As he looks in the sky a shooting star flies over head, heading west ... it is quite bright. He wonders where it will land ... it is certainly moving fast.

Herkimer notes the star and follows it's trajectory through the air, wondering if it will make contact with the ground.

It takes two further days before Chloe is ready to try traveling. The village wishes you well, since you have built a bit of a bond with many of them over the past week. All of therm look a fair bit better from having eaten decently for that week. You suspect it may be a while before they fully recover their strength and have food to go around.
Chloe is only able to ride for about 6 hours at a time, so it takes another three days of travel to get back to Oakwood. There you find Ser Kendrik has beaten off a small threat to the castle and things are picking up. He has ordered some of the stored food to be returned to the local villages to eat and to use as seed.  All the quarters in the castle have been cleaned and rearranged to remove any sign of the last owners.  A comfortable room with south facing windows is given to Chloe, Wulfe and the Baby, who has been named 'Obnixus' for his determination to survive.  However there are signs that he will have some issues from his abuse in the womb, despite Thomas' significant efforts. He can only presume the baby would have died without those efforts of his.
Herkimer is able to contact Queen Airis and they relay the situation ... the King approves a gate in Oakwood as he feels it's fall will be contested and the ability to move leaders and mages will likely be important.  They are concerned by your tale of the Templars and their behavior.

Herkimer will find suitable stone arches within the castle and will have his two apprentice mages cast spells to install new stone in it's place. Magically created stone doesn't seem to make good gates, and not all stone works either, but this granite seems right for the task.

He should have been settled, instead Wulfe was on edge and those that knew him could see that he was on a short fuse. The impotence of having to watch and wait while his wife and child were suffering, for them to be better and knowing that the shit that had inflicted it upon them walked free back towards Megalos.

"Thomas, can you scout, and see if you can find them?" he asked early after the birth and had to restrain himself from keeping his horse saddled, ready for any quick response to any new information.

In reality, he just had nothing more to do than hope for fortunate circumstances, and it wrinkled the life-soldier in a bad way. He never smiled and seemed to have a temprament and demeanour that might rival something like stone, or perhaps volcanic. The exxception was to Chloe and the baby Obnixus (OOC: apt name (I studied latin for a good long while at school)) whom he treated with a care that might be akin to feather's fall.

Before they left, Wulfe said "I'll have Oakwood send you provisions until you can rebuild yourself properly to the villagers and was pleasantly surprised when Ser Kendrik had already made such accommodations, it was unusual of nobility to say the least.

"As the victorious force, and with Lady Chloe as the ranking member of our army, I claim for her stewardship of Oakwood until the King and Queen appoint a new Lord. he said to Kendrik and Herkimer, and Thomas and Ovo and Hugh."Any that wish to oppose it? he offered the room for contestation and then added with a resigned sigh I suppose it will be temporary only.


Later in the night, while others were rested, Wulfe retrieved two bottles of hard and good brandy from the Cellar of the pantry and assembled his closest friends.

Thomas, Herkimer, Ovo and Hugh. "No braver, more stalwart, wise and great men have I found. Drink with me he said and then poured everyone a cup. He drank heavily that night.


OOC: I'm so dramatic :D
This message was last edited by the player at 23:47, Sat 05 Jan 2019.

At this point you know that all Templars except the one sentry were dispatched. He escaped.
Lord Brance has flown the coop ... but his paramour , the illusionist, was killed in the battle with Caithness by a stray arrow. In death, she became an unattractive old woman no one recognized ... Brance was apparently disgusted when he discovered her subterfuge and left her body in the mud when he fled. It was only later that one of the  Mages of Caithness found she had two very large power stones with her and a third was found in her rooms. The Mages also noted that Oakwood was an unusual place in caithness, as the Mana was generally average , and it was high in some of the upper rooms.

OOC:
AH
misunderstood - the scouting request then was for the one that escaped. questioning, etc.

Yes... Templars are unusual, as they come from far eastern Megalos. Normal out here is Hospitallers.

"Well, those should be given to Herkimer, Thomas and Jaleen... he said about the identified powerstones. Despite his hardened demeanour the alcohol had left  him with a slightly hollowed out look and the rings around his eyes told of little rest. It'd take a little while before  things would have some semblance of normalcy again.

"Ser Kendrik, can you have riders sent out to each major town and village in Oakland to ensure that their provisions can last  well enough through the coming winter, and that they have not been 'taxed' too hard by Oakwood's previous Lord

"Once Herkimer has the gate up, we should go and report back to Carrick.

So any business you need to take care of should be done before it's finished he said.

OOC: Not sure what everyone else wants to do atm.

In reply to Wulfe The Pretty (msg # 138):

Thomas will set about helping the folk as much as possible, and allowing Rascallion a free reign to find and kill, if possible, the Templar that escaped. In the meantime, he will assist as much as possible training healers to take advantage of the higher mana.

In reply to Wulfe The Pretty (msg # 138):

OK, The powerstones were taken by the Mages of Carricke.
It's spring... so the various villages should be able to grow food... if they have enough to eat now, which is the issue.  There is little question that they have been taxed hard. The good part is that much of Brance's gold and stored foodstuffs were captured. He left with a good bit of gold, but left far more behind.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 140):

Any idea where he headed?

Brance? ... there are no clues you are aware of, other than probably to Megalos.

Herkimer begins scouting the areas of the tower for both a natural archway AND high mana levels. This has some amazing benefits - reduces the number of people he requires to feed him energy, creates a stronger gate and creates natural bottle necks so large forces cannot be moved between gates. Having Jaeleen at his side and his two apprentices makes this easier of course. It would take some time, but they would be able to move Chloe and the wee babe back to be with the King and Queen and in a much safer environment with access to the finest talent in the land.

When starting this project Herkimer approaches Wulfe and Thomas, laying out his plan.

"This will take some time but will be well worth the effort. The only concern you may have is the tactical weakness of this location. A tower can more easily be toppled by external forces or even when the earth moves. But the benefits and speed gained by using this location are hard to ignore. So we will put the Gate there unless you have serious objections.

Lastly, once we have erected the gate I believe that if we are to continue our paths through the country that Jaeleen and I will best serve if I can ply certain tomes from The Academy of White and Green magic - to help heal the people and also their land and crops. It will gain favor, I would suspect, wherever we go."

ooc: 1) make gate
2) quick jaunt to the Mage Academy to obtain some additional spells? that can be slowly learned for healing and plant magic

Step 1.
As Luck would have it, the very best mana level is on the second floor on the gallery above the Main hall and in the central room! Basically where the two mages were when you stormed the place.  You will also note a 4 foot high shaft rising from a plinth with an egg shaped depression in the top of the shaft. ... about where the Mana is strongest.  Near the far wall is another strong spot close by the wall. Further exploration says the spot by the wall would support a stone gate.. the floor by the plinth would be strained by it.

You find a suitable Granite arch in the basement and some earth magic restores the arch's strength with magical stone.

Wulfe nodded a the suggestion "I don't doubt that the people round here could use all the help they can get after Brance's heavy hand.

Are there magical protections that you, the apprentices and Thomas could form around the keep? he asked, curious.

"Of course there are sweetikins." Herkimer adopted a false smile and an overly sweet tone of voice which he immediately dropped.

"What is it you want man, pick and choose. We have time and resources - we can do this gate or reinforce the town. Not both at the same time.

The work was stressful, a misstep and the first person to traverse the gate would... well best not to speak of it. He sought out Jaeleen's hand and felt the young soft skin against his. It was relaxing to the touch. His mind wandered and he sighed.

"But yes - there is much we can do in areas all through here. The more resources we can bring through the gate, other mages, craftsmen, Men of Stone even, the better chance we have of securing this area."

In reply to Herkimer (msg # 146):

"I am limited in how much I can do to re-inforce proper fortifications. Better I heal."

Alright, take what you need for the gate and make that the priority. Kendrik, Ovo and myself can ensure the fort stays well defended. I'll have Kendrik send regular parties of horse around the land to get any early indication of attack, and ensure the villages nearby are doing better

Over the next 10 days, Kendrik rides around to as many out lying villages and towns as he can...
He can roll 3d6 for things of interest.

The castle it self runs reasonably smoothly and both Chloe and Babe get stronger.

The mages spend days moving heavy stone pieces into the center room on the second level and placing them carefully, then Herkimer starts his slow and steady enchanting of the gate itself, taking time to teach Jaeleen but neither of the apprentices, whom he feels are not far enough along to master the spell. The casting goes well with only one poor casting which they are able to improve. By the morning of the 11th day, all is in place and ready to go ... then comes the testing.

Need a 3d6 roll from Herkimer
Jaeleen manages a 6 ... for her supporting role.

Herkimer put himself in the middle of the action. Directing stones, dipping into the ether and watching the power fluctuate, assembling his protege and other apprentices and instructing them on the precision required to accomplish this task. As if he were conducting a symphonic masterpiece.


20:58, Today: Herkimer rolled 10 using 3d6.  Assembling the Gate.

At the end of the 10th day, you are finished ... you think it is good, but you are all exhausted, so everyone gets some food and some sleep.

In the morning you let the other know the gate is built, but untested. The curious but uninformed want to know how you test this gate.

Wulfe spent the fortnight mostly wandering around, and thinking and then sitting in with Chloe. He tried to keep himself as occupied as possible but while they were recovering he was more like a shade of himself.

In reply to Wulfe The Pretty (msg # 152):

Thomas spent much of the fortnight healing people and helping all he could, as well as keeping an eye on what Herkimer was doing.

"Apprentices are used for testing such, are they not?" he joked.

"Or perhaps prisoners...ones that need to be transported back for trial anyway."

Herkimer tsk'd those gathered. "I can contact Lady Airis somewhat reliably and ask her to inform the Academy that some food will be passing through from a new gate erected. While I do appreciate the opportunity to exact revenge on a prisoner, it will work as intended."

ooc: contact Lady Airis to share the news and inform the academy proper.

Lady Airis acknowledges the message but questions if the food will work.

Herkimer rubs his nose with his forefingers pressing hard into the pressure point. Of course food wouldn't work.

"Stand back, a master should not ask others to do what he would not do himself."

Without waiting for anyone to object or bar his way Herkimer steps through the portal thinking of Caithness. The Academy. Definitely *not* Lady Airis. Thoughts of Jaeleen threatened to enter his mind and he quickly pushed them aside. Now was not the time, but perhaps if this went well....

He solidified a thought of the basement in the Academy and pushed his way through the magical membrane separating the two spaces.

Wulfe watched, while leaning aginst the wall with crossed arms. "Well, he's made these before, everything should be alright" he said without any emotion.

"But soon we'll be able to give an update to our King and Queen

Herkimer does not return immediately, leaving you to wonder whether the gate worked or not ... Jaeleen starts to become upset.

He glanced around the room. "He's probably talking to them" he said casually, more to reassure the young wizard than anything. "He's never failed it before, that I've seen and the man, for all his flaws, is a good wizard he added, and then shrugged.


After a few moments he asked "Can you communicate, like the others? Over the distances, using magic?

In reply to Wulfe The Pretty (msg # 159):

"Chloe is probably the most capable communicator, normally."

Wulfe nodded, and then said "Lets keep faith in Herkimer, and give him an hour or two before assuming the worst".

ooc: apologies, only time for a quick post

"I'm back!"
Herkimer steps through the portal. Four hours have passed since he left. He relays information that the King and Queen have been informed and are pleased with their progress and indicated that the Academy is sending some apprentices to help the land and its people recover their agricultural foothold.

Herkimer is all but tackled by Jaellen as he steps out of the gate, gathers himself after the disorienting trip and starts to speak.

I thought you were coming straight back! I was so distraught when you didn't come back! Don't do that again, at least tell me you'll be a while...

She almost knocks Herkimer down as she hugs him, pulling him off balance.

In reply to Jaeleen of Fairfields (msg # 163):

Thomas smiles, glad that Herkimer was missed as much as laughing at his welcome on the return.

Wulfe nodded at the news "Welcome back, was there any news about what we'll do with Oakwood?

Given that the gate works, the servants help get things together for Lady Chloe to travel. She is much better, but she has not wholly recovered, Wulfe is very aware that there is still internal damage of some sort, she needs better care than is available here.

Master Mage Aedan from the academy appears with 4 apprentices and is made comfortable.

Who is going back to Carricke? I presume Wulfe, Chloe, Thomes, Herkimer, Jaeleen, Ovo and Kendrik?

Everyone else has to ride back.

Wulfe had left no question, he would go and take Ovo and Hugh with them. Everyone else, was able to go as they saw fit, for the time being at least. Everyone deserved a little bit of rest, and some of them would get it.

Wulfe would speak to Aeden beforehand "Master Aeden, in lieu of myself, Chloe or one of the current castellans being present (ovo/Kendrik). I leave you in charge until I returon of the royals issue further command.


OOC:

Aye, will go back to carrick

I had presumed Hugh would lead the ground team, although it isn't critical at all. it just means you should break up in two groups and travel about an hour apart.

OOC: Ah, yes that's fine. Will need to leave a reasonable force to defend oakwood though.

"Hugh, you've been a good body guard and always been a great warrior, who I am glad to have by me. But lets give you a new challenge eh? Keep these folk in order and get them back to Carricke he said, offering the guy a leader position for the returned group.

In reply to Wulfe The Pretty (msg # 169):

Thomas is happy to return and meet the royal court for the first time. He is in no hurry, and probably will leave in the second group if they split, taking Rascallion with him though.

Hugh is fine either way, the current leadwer of the group is mildly put out tho'


OK, First Group is Wulfe, Chloe w/Baby and Thomas   they go out promptly.

Herkimer, Jaeleen, Ovo and Kendrick come next, about an hour or so later.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 171):

With Rascallion, right?

He is not an issue...

Herkimer gives what news he can and clamps to Jaeleen appropriately in response to her worry.

"Yes yes, I merely forgot is all. Par for the course if Master Aedan wanted to attest to anything."

As Herkimer gathered up his belongings he told Jaeleen how he was denied access to any further learning from the academy, and they'd have to make do with what they had on them already and what they would find in their journeys. They would survive and grow in power. To help others. Or so he said.

"In fact this trip back would be good, we much check to my land, shower those who work it with feast and good fortune and spread my name as a benevolent land owner. You should speak with Queen Airis about an appropriate attire when you appear at my side... if you so wish."

Of Course I wish... I shall have toask her many things I suspect.

Wulfe and company again startle the guards, although not quite as much... they are quickly escorted up stairs where some more observant person notices Thomas and his pet.  There is an instant stop to everything as they want to know who he is and if he is authorized in the castle.  Chloe is taken away to be cared for, as is the baby.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 176):

Thomas waits and allows others to introduce him...

Wulfe looks at the guardmen, and tries to remember faces but otherwise looks at them without his usual warm grin "He's Thomas O'Leary. He helped us take back Oakwood. Take us to the king and queen" he said, eager to have done with the reporting so he could head to see to Chloe and 'Nox' as he'd come to affectionately term him.

He considered heading to the kitchens too to pickup a brandy.

In reply to Wulfe The Pretty (msg # 178):

Thomas thanks Wulfe for the introduction and adds

"I am to replace John as the representative for Dragonkind."

Only those on the approved list may enter the throne room, ambassadors, landed nobles and those specifically invited by the crown.  The man replies, he snaps his fingers behind his back and several guards move your way.

Thomas mentions Dragonkind and the man's head tilts and he looks again at his lists  ...  You replace John? John whom?
This message was last edited by the GM at 20:01, Thu 24 Jan 2019.

Wulfe glared at the man and stepped forward to address "Have I been away so long that you don't trust my arm to protect the crown? You think that any could hurt our king or queen while I stood beside them? he felt a rising anger in his throat and then considered that his words might not mean anything to these men. It frustrated him more.

"Ask them yourself, or fetch the Castellen, for he knows me well and I will vouch for Thomas here

In reply to Wulfe The Pretty (msg # 181):

"I replace John of Mallwynd, as the crown is well aware. Perhaps you should check with them if you doubt Wulfe." Thomas answered calmly. He was in no great hurry.

The man steps back and the guards tense up a bit... the man looks slightly wary ... umm the Castellan won't be necessary if this man has papers or signets showing he has replaced the last ambassador.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 183):

Thomas shows the ring of office on his finger.

"You mean this?"

He holds it out for inspection.

Wulfe nodded "Good. My men will be arriving in a few days, some of them are old soldiers like you but many of them are rough and ready. We'll give them a choice what they want to do, if they want to stay as part of that force. Then have somebody find them a place to sleep and eat for now. And we'll get to drilling them soon enough he then stepped forward again and gestured the rest of the group with him.

"Let's go see our king and queen he said.

In reply to Thomas O'Leary (msg # 184):

Uh, yes your excellency, our apologies, but one must be careful in these times. He waves away the guards and nods at the doorman to let you all pass.



Meanwhile, Herkimer and company show up in the basement, expected this time the guards are polite and helpful.  You make your way upstairs as well, where it takes some moments to gain Jaeleen entrance to the throne room as well, but her name is found written on the back of the last page.

The King is speaking with Thomas and Wulfe as you enter, he waves you forward as well... and Lady Airis comes in from behind the thrones, sees Herkimer and gives him a very warm smile as she takes her throne to the Kings Left.

Thomas, Wulfe and Kendrick may make Perception rolls at -1

Wulfe held back a grin at th eman and then nodded as they all headed into the throne room.


"Your Majesties" he said without making a formal bow (OOC: it's more like a quirk of his rather than any direct affront to them)

"Oakwood is taken. Brance escaped to Megalos, by all accounts and the rebel lord was supported by Megalan Templars

Herkimer stands politely within the audience chamber. He does not directly return Airis' smile, but bows slightly. As Jaeleen enters at the tail end of the delegation he makes a distinct and obvious move to motion to her to his side. When she reaches it he holds her hand politely and raises it, his palm upwards, hers facing down upon his, careful not to intertwine their fingers.

"M'lord and Lady, may I present Miss Jaeleen of..." His memory falters. He almost forgets it, despite being on the tip of his tongue. But at the last moment is saved as a rush of memories when they first met rescue him.

"Fairfields. She has proven adept in the magical arts and aided us countless times, in both temperament of character and clever use of the tools at her disposal. Without her aide we undoubtedly would not have fared as well as we did. With no family of my own to which I should like to take ownership, and being a landowner under your fealty, I request your permission Sire to court this woman that she may, should she choose, one day become Dame of my house and lands"

It was probably the noblest thing Herkimer had ever done. He didn't let that notion bother him, nor weigh upon his thoughts as being owed anything. He certainly hadn't asked Jaeleen. He wasn't sure of the outcome, and honestly he was beyond worrying about it. Should she turn it down...he would continue to pursue her anyways. There's always tomorrow.

In reply to Wulfe The Pretty (msg # 187):

Indeed well done, you have exceeded our expectations and indeed our hopes.  The Templars are indeed a concern and Herkimer briefly told us of their abduction of Lady Chloe. She is being looked to even now by the queen and her trusted physicians. The Crown feels a debt for your abilities and are looking into a fief you may raise your children on, when not in our service. Ah, and here are he rest of the group that brought Brance low...

In reply to Herkimer (msg # 188):

Lady Airis' arrival causes a brief pause, and there is a brief and sudden tenseness, which Herkimer's sudden and unexpected announcement totally dissolves.  Jaeleen utters a small gasp and squeezes Herkimer's hand.  Airis' left eye brow goes up, while a big smile creeps across her face.  The King is briefly stunned by the unexpected announcement, but recovers quickly and nods I think that would be easily granted Herkimer and it would seem most welcome as well.
The queen nods Yes, I think it a fine thing to do.

The King nods, Done then, now back to Lieutenant Wulfe and Lady Chloe ... how is she my dear?

Airis looks to the King I think she will be well and none the worse for her mistreatment, but her days of adventuring are over for some time to come as she finishes healing and raises a child, which does prompt the question of your choice of names?

And raises the issue of where she will raise this child, there is a Manse not far from the hunting Lodge that you all departed from; in fact the lodge is a part of those Lands along with a sizable village, access to the river and the road to Carricke, I believe it is known as Greenfields. I propose that you hold that and maintain it as landholder  with fealty but to me. Oh, and of course, you must be ennobled to hold lands, KNEEL Wulfe!

Wulfe raised an eyebrow at Herkimer's request but couldn't hold back a smile. He nodded and then looked back to the royals to hear their words. It was a good thing, and good that they would be wed, good at least that Herkimer might find an anchor from which to build himself to full potential.

The words of Airis released a wave of relief across Wulfe and he felt a rekindling of joy at the notion that both Chloe and Nox would be healthy and well. "The name was chosen to represent the manner he came into the world. Perhaps against odds and resolved to live. he said simply, taking some pride at the fortitude his son had shown.


He was happy about the additional offerings from the crown and felt it was very good to have a place to settle while raising a youngling, but at the end he was caught a little off guard. He did step forward, pausing a moment and fighting his natural urge to remain standing. In the end though, it was for the best and so he knelt.

"Everything for Caithness and its people he said, simply.

 The King pulls a sword from behind his throne and taps Wulfe on each shoulder, I knight you Ser Wulfe and appoint you Baronet of Greenfields and Lieutenant of the King's Guard. Rise Ser Wulfe. We shall have to raise Lady Chloe in turn when she feels better.


OOC - A Baronet's wife is not a  Baronetess , but merely a Lady.

Despite always vaguely holding some disdain for nobles and how they had treated he, his friends and allies when he'd been soldiering for Caithness, Wulfe couldn't help but feel some pride in being recognised and elevated.

He smiled again and felt slightly overwhelmed at being able to now have means to provide for a family. The life he'd always followed as soldier and guardsman had never been one much suited to having family and so he felt grateful.

"Thank you, your majesty. was all he could manage to say.



OOC:
 

quote:

   a member of the lowest hereditary titled British order, with the status of a commoner but able to use the prefix ‘Sir’.

IS that true here too? Still technically a commoner?
This message was last edited by the player at 18:35, Fri 25 Jan 2019.

As are all Knights, Squires and other lower titles, but in reality they are a cut above commoners, although not peers of the realm (Seated in  the House of Lords) or in Caithness, a part of the council of Lords, which is really just the loyal barons and one or two other nobles.

Essentially there are two levels of nobility, upper and lower, although the "Peers"  don't consider the lower nobility as nobles in many cases ... this is eroding some in recent years.

so does this mean i still outrank Wulfe?

In reply to Herkimer (msg # 195):

Um, how do you figure?

We shall have supper together and converse more about what you have seen, but for now, go and get your rooms , rest and we shall sup at the beginning of the 5th guard*.


Everyone is ushered out and to their rooms; Wulfe is advised that Chloe and Baby will join him later that afternoon.
Jaeleen is shown to a separate room next to Herkimers, but without an adjoining door. There are various servants in the hall always, so there will be no secretive visiting.

* in case you forget,  The guards shifts start at midnight and last four hours. So the fourth guard ends at 1600/4PM and the 5th shift starts.

Wulfe had been away for a while, but remembered the castle with some familiarity and fondness. He headed down to the kitchens and asked for a bottle of brandy, and took some of the food that was ready and available too. They made great food in Carrick.

"Thanks he said after picking up the things and then took a quick slug of the brandy before heading out. He took an hour or so to wander around the castle and just follow some of hte patrol routes, and walk the wall a little. More to think, than anything.

Afterwards, but before he assumed Chloe and Nix would be ready, the ex-soldier figured he might call to see if the Guard Commander was around. And at least just greet the man.

The Captain of the Guard is indeed there, a bit grayer it would seem and with paper all over his desk, but he grins when he sees you and greets you warmly... You have truly amazed us with your defeat of Oakwood, we though it a wishful assault at best. Tell me of how you laid them low.

Wulfe grinned and then took a sip of the brandy before letting it down on the table "Celebration?

"Well, Brance had really been doing a number on the folks that live in Oakwood, and even those that fought for him were more than eager to change sides. A bunch of ill treated folk, and ill treated villages.

We got a lot of support from locals and so our numbers swelled. Coupled with some wizards, and the support of Chloe and her authority, we got an additional company of cavalry. By the time we got to Oakwood keep, we'd pretty much had an army and theirs weren't so willing to fight for such a bastard.

he sat down and then proceeded to elaborate the story to its full depth while taking pulls of the brandy intermittently.

"You look greyer than last time. I guess duties as captain of the guard is very different to life of a soldier eh? Less stressful, though, I expect? And more superficial pleasantries with courtiers? he chuckled.

After chatting some more and telling about the things that weren't directly related to the campaign, Chloe, Nix, Jaleen, and so on, Wulfe mentioned with a sigh of resignation"...  but at least Oakwood is taken and not rebelling. I don't know who will become lord of Oakwood now but it seems that Megalos has had its eye on distruption of Caithness through more subtle means... I've never come across Templars before

In reply to Wulfe The Pretty (msg # 200):

Thomas moves around quietly, and smiles at Herkimer's announcement. Offering his congratulations later, he talks quietly with the ki g before moving off around the castle, asking to visit lady Emelia to console her.

The King smiles and hands Thomas a rolled scroll... this may help as well, allow her to break the seal if you don't mind.


The trip to Emelia is simple, go back down to the magical gate and think of where she lives.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 202):

Thomas will follow the kings directions and head back to the magical gate...

In reply to Thomas O'Leary (msg # 203):

The guards let him in to the gate

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 204):

Which he will pass through.

You arrive in the Gate room at the lodge which is dusty and obviously hasn't been used in quite a while.

As you step out a very haggard and obviously ill fed specter of Emelia is startled and jumps up Who in God's Name?!, Her hand goes to her skirt, where you know she keeps a knife.

We can take this to PM is you wish

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 206):

Yeah, let's go pm...

Wulfe eventually heads back to his room where he finds Chloe sitting in a chair by the window, feeding the baby, the curve of her breast barely visible behind the babies head. The baby is making all sorts of slurping sounds and Chloe gives Wulfe a big grin  Hungry little fellow

Wulfe smiled.
"Good. Let him feed and get strong! he said and headed over to Chloe, kneeling at their side and fussing them both with more affection than he'd ever really shown anyone else.

"We can stay here a while, if you want. he offered gently.

Chloe smiles back and pushes closer to Wulfe.
I would like that, as I am getting a great deal of help, but tell me, where in the God's name did you come up with the name Obnixus? It sounds awful.

"The name isn't settled yet," Wulfe said. "It was just something the villagers named him and I waited until you were stronger again before giving a name, so we could decide together. I called him Nix for now, but we can think of something.

"Maybe I should call him Pup" he said with a chuckle.


OOC: I dont mind thinking up the name OOC and letting them engotiate it IC. But i'm easy :)

Why did the villagers call him that? do you know?

Wulfe grinned From what I heard it's because he came fighting into the world against all resistance. He's a strong'n and was wanting to live he said

The Crown summons you all back to Carricke.

OOC: I'll go where the king wants, and meet him when he wants . I think Wulfe and Chloe are already at Carricke Castle for now.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 214):

Thomas will find his way back, as directed.

[Ooc: Did we get ant cp from the last mission?]

In reply to Thomas O'Leary (msg # 216):

Are you bringing Emelia?
This message was last edited by the GM at 20:39, Fri 08 Feb 2019.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 217):

I will invite her, her choice though.

In reply to Thomas O'Leary (msg # 218):

Well let's see.... sit out here all alone for a while longer or go to Court and enjoy court life ... Ummmm...

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 219):

Some folk don't like court life and do like solitude. Just giving her the choice...

Emelia comes along ... sheesh.

In reply to Emelia Hill (msg # 221):

Lol, Can't tell a lady what to do! It has to be her call! But what happens when we get there?

You are taken back up to the royal wing and given adjoining rooms. You (both) are invited to supper at sunset.

Herkimer packs simply from his house and offers to Jaeleen of course whether she would like to accompany him or not to see what the crown's summons meant. It had hardly been any time, or so it felt since they had arrived and the reprieve from traveling had been welcome. Making his way (with or without Jaeleen) Herkimer sought the road back to the castle, taking a moment to enjoy observing the world around him opposed to traveling by gate or magical means.

In reply to Herkimer (msg # 224):

Whilst the Road would be somewhat more relaxing, it would also be about three weeks if not more. Dithanar will want to chat for sure... May I suggest you both take the gate along with the lady in waiting.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 225):

Thomas and Emelia will clean themselves up and present for supper with the King.

Herkimer's steward of the house, Horace, prattled endlessly on and on about how he needed to make haste back to the King, that taking the road was an absurd waste of time and young Herkimer's talents. He needed to show initiative! Improve their lots in life!! Herkimer finally gathered Jaeleen and the lady in waiting and took a gate, just to stop listening to the well intentioned man.

Arriving with his small retinue of ladies Herkimer brushes off his robes and takes Jaeleen's hand in the appropriate fashion of two people in an appropriate courtship who had not yet been married and make their way to dinner.

You are pressing the available time, but they show you to two rooms none the less and give you each a few moments to freshen up. You are then guided to the appropriate dining room.  Wulfe, Chloe, the baby, Thomas and Lady Emelia are all there, the King and Queen have not arrived.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 228):

Thomas greets Wulfe and Chloe first, genuinely happy to see the baby healthy. When Herkimer and Jaeleen arrive, he greets them also.

Herkimer nods first to the king and queen, presenting Jaeleen as a visiting lady as well as the lady in waiting to the court. He then bows and leads them to their seats waving indiscreetly to Thomas and Wulfe. He had dread traveling but seeing those who you have spent hard time on the road with brought back a feeling and rush of power. He even smiled a bit.

In reply to Herkimer (msg # 230):

And if you'll read my posts, you'd know the King and Queen aren't there yet...

Given all the conversation, it is easy to hear the King and Queen approach and enter through a side door near the windows (Opposite from where you all came in).
Greeting Friends, Good to see you all again. I regret that I am in need of your aid again... I am glad you came Lady Emelia, this concerns you directly.

Herkimer looks on impassively, munching on some sausage and cheese.

"So I should wait before I ask for your permission to marry her, in Johns place?" Thomas enquires.

The King Smirks, well, I can't say ... I fear Emelia may have to assume her Fathers seat, at least for a while, she will have to decide if she desires a consort.

In reply to King Conall VI (msg # 235):

"Oh. That may be something that is easiest to sort out before we return, but if I understand you correctly, then, it is actually her decision."

It should be, but enough, let me tell you what I know; Lord Thomas Hawke has sent a message saying that Emelia's Brother, Jastem, has fallen quite ill ... or been poisoned. He can barely rule and won't be able too soon. Various Lords are all vying to become regent until he recovers. Lord Hawke doubts that his son would be accepted as ruler, despite his marriage to Nystercia.  He has asked our aid and specifically if Lady Emelia would assume the role of regent until Jastem can be healed.  He feels that with some support, she will not be confronted, but will be indanger of a knife in the back or a dose of poison herself.  Both of these things we can protect against and Lord Hawke Trusts the Lady Emelia to work to their mutual benefit.
So Milady, will you accept this dangerous task?

Lady Emelia rises and curtsies to the King  Why Yes, Of course, I promised my Father I would always aid the family.

And ... and I would appreciate the aid of jo... umm Thomas , My apologies Thomas... my brain struggles to adapt to reality. I would welcome you as husband and consort.

Who else would join me?

Wulfe glanced around the room and smiled when the royals entered. His smile was short lived though after the news had been delivered. "Always in turmoil" he said with resignation, but then brightened when Emelia accepted the offer to become regent. She would be a great candidate to perform such a task.

Whether he was to go or not, he wasn't sure. Chloe and the baby needed some help for the time being and so Wulfe had a lot to consider.

"You can blame Master Aedan at the Academy for not giving me the tomes on healing I requested. Would have come in handy... but just poor mildly informed Herkimer and his exceptional companion and lady in courtship Jaeleen will lend their wills to this task. It will do us good to get out from underfoot of our household staff and let the house and lands operate normally a while. Wulfe must, naturally accompany us, we lack the training in arms and besides, every adventure must begin with heavy drink and equally heavy headache!

Dismissive of your ability as usual I see ... But most certainly your able apprentice is welcome to go with you.  I too think Wulfe should accompany you all, although the drinking and headache are unnecessary to be sure. I fear Lord Ovo has had to return to brief his uncle on this affair, and I have no idea when he might join you.  Ser Bran is also welcome to join in ... I had expected to see him here, but do not see him present.

In reply to King Conall VI (msg # 241):

"Very well. Milady, should we tie the knot before we go, rather than deal with the complications of doing so in a possibly hostile court, or at least partially so, as I am sure many would not want me being involved there?"
This message was last edited by the player at 03:08, Fri 15 Feb 2019.

If the King would be so kind, it will make it very difficult fr members of the court to say anything. Especially since his guard is in attendance... I am presuming you will send a small group of soldiers as you did last time your Highness?

Herkimer straightened and put on a face most serious.
"My Lord and King, I beg to differ though still bow to your counsel. But riding off to danger and potential death always begets a drink with those whom death may come. For time has shown, and Wulfe will attest, in the moment of darkness and peril, the temperament of men and woman both, may not be whom they are in their best of moments. We should remember the best. Always the best."

He sat at this, and absentmindedly stared at the far wall while munching on some cheese.

The King chuckled at Herkimer's out burst... Indeed a drink is in order, but getting falling down sick or incapacitated is most certainly not.

"Incapacitated? Never. However, dangerous... " Herkimer's mind raced back. The dwarven caves, the illness they had spread, Ashlik... his face clouded and he leaned back in his seat, magical currents and eddies began to swirl around his fingers before he clasped his fist and reached for Jaeleen's hand, a comfort in a maelstrom of emotions and energy.

Jaeleen saw the changes in Herkimer as much as felt them, she took his hand and squeezed, drawing his attention for a moment so he could gather himself. Somehow, in doing that, she changed his focus to her and their relationship.

It was a warm happy thought, he smiled and looked up to note Airis's eyes on him, she smiled as she saw the clouds vaporize.

"...However dangerous the road ahead may be it is always good to celebrate what life has given us that is good with those that we may call friends. To that end sire I raise my glass to your and your health."

Herkimer looked to Jaeleen, gratitude and love filled his eyes.

The King stands, as all the other people present follow suit I'll drink to that, and to you and your health as well as everyone else's here, Ser!

In reply to King Conall VI (msg # 249):

Thomas, having vowed never to drink alcohol, raises his glass of juice.

"I will drink to that! Here, here!"

Supper is light but pleasant. The King makes it clear that you will all need to leave within the next day or so, then excuses himself.
Everyone else also starts off to make ready when Airis calls out to Jaeleen May I have a moment of your time ... she beckons her toward the door the King and Queen entered from ... Jaeleen looks to Herkimer. Airis smiles You may bring him too, we aren't talking secrets.

Herkimer is glad he hasn't start to drink in earnest and urges Jaeleen ahead of him, it was she afterall that the Queen had asked after, he was there to support her. He wondered, briefly, if the time spent with the lady in waiting would have helped impart the necessary knowledge for conversing with the king and queen

You enter a small sitting room  where Airis turns and motions to the Chairs  She then looks at Jaeleen and says  Felly, mae gennych y gwaed hefyd?

Jaeleen nods and responds Dim ond rhai, gan fy Nhad-cu

To which Airis says Roeddwn i'n meddwl cymaint, rwy'n credu y gwnewch chi'n dda iawn gyda Herkimer fel eich athro. Rydym yn falch o gael chi ymhlith ni.

Jaeleen nods He has been most kind and very helpful.

OK .... so everyone assembles in the morning; Chloe is NOT going, Wulfe is to be Emelia's strong right arm, while her new husband is her consort and close advisor. Herkimer and Jaeleen are to provide knowledge and magical skills.

Let me know when you are ready.

Ooc: ready? Do we have options ?

In reply to Herkimer (msg # 255):

There are always options, depending on what you seek.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 256):

Think I have spent all my cp, so good to go!

It is just after the start of 3rd watch when a tired looking soldier wearing the colors of Geden comes out of the gate to where you are... He bows to Lady Emelia and says  Your Brother Jastem has taken a turn for the worse, you should hurry to his side.

Lady Emelia thanks the man and turns to Thomas Let us go then

Wulfe pipes up I should go with you, as I am your appointed guard.

Thomas Frowns I shall go with her if anyone does.

Herkimer waves his hand... we waste time with arguing, it has transported the equivalent of six people at once, let us hold hands and all go together.

He coaxes the group together, Thomas holds Emelias hand and her trunk with his other, she holds Wulfe's hand and Jaeleen holds wulfe's other and Herkimer's hand as he struggles to get you all into the gate... The familiar twisting and disorienting  occurs and then it stops in bright light ... there is the smell of grass and the sound of a brook in the distance. A quick look around shows that all of you arrived along with a trunk that Thomas still holds. You are in a nice meadow, perhaps a bow shot long and half that wide.  The sun is only halfway to the zenith so east is easily discernible, as is the stream in that general direction ... and then before anyone says anything, you hear a man call out Tharmud, get the horses, we are moving slower than creation, we have a long trip today. Another voice says I'm moving, I'm moving ... the horses don' like being pulled together like this.    The first responds Quit yer noise, who is in charge? The Horses?  You see a man in armor pass between the bushes with shield emblazoned with a large red cross. He is to the east where the sound of the brook comes from.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 258):

"Templars!" Thomas curses.

He says a few words, and a Cave bear appears.

"Go flush them out, my friend, and chase them towards us. I believe Wulfe would like a word with them."

He checks to see that Rascallion is close...

When You curse... you hear Who said that!
A moment later another voice says ... somebody just cast something ...  maybe a summoning?


The Bear slows and sneaks toward the bushes ... suddenly a horse whinnies and a Man shouts Hoa damn it .

Wulfe heard the word that was poison to his ears and in a moment both his swords were drawn. He wasted no time and set off at full tilt to where the voices had emanated. His eyes had glazed and he felt the familiar tingle of battle lust come upon him. Avenged would be his family.

Upon getting closer, he rull roared, happy that the bear had provided enough distraction for him to make quick work of them.

In reply to Wulfe The Pretty (msg # 261):

Seeing Wulfe make the most of the opportunity, Thomas mentally instructed the bear to tear them off their horses.

The bear does not find them mounted, rather a fellow leading all four over to the other three near a small fire... but only for a second and the Bear growls the horses scatter dragging the poor fellow in several directions at once.... The other three draw their weapons looking startled... The one in the middle says... Oh crap, it's just an illusion... and those with powers feel him cast a spell... then the Bear attacks.

Wulfe is well behind the bear and his noise is lost in the immediate threat... The Bear attacks the Man on the right with a swing from his right paw, but the soldier twists back and the blow misses. The man in the center seems slightly confused as he swing his sword at the bear, which lunges and catches his right forearm in his jaws... a bloodcurdling scream is heard and the sword falls to the ground with an unheard clatter.  The third soldier stands, his axe raised and does nothing.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 263):

Thomas hears the scream and smiles, maintaining his concentration.

Wulfe danced into the midst of the enemies and looped his sword around in a wide arc, aiming for the axe-man. It was the set up for a rather elaborate set of spins that would give him opportunity to attack everyone in a small distance, without losing any of his own momentum



OOC:

08:33, Today: Wulfe The Pretty rolled 7 using 3d6.  sword. //  HIT
08:33, Today: Wulfe The Pretty rolled 7 using 3d6.  random location.

Wulfe's totally unexpected attack catches the man across his back at the bottom of his rib cage. He has chain mail armor.

Roll up damage. 1D6+3 ...
This message was last edited by the GM at 18:09, Tue 26 Feb 2019.

Wulfe swung and felt the thrill of his blade as it rang out with the impact. Score. He continued the movement, onto the next person and spun to arc his blade to the next man.








OOC:

22:49, Today: Wulfe The Pretty rolled 7 using 1d6+3.  Damage (Cutting).
(Is that including the very fine quality of the weapon? I dont remember)

Either way, DR4 - 3 3*1.5 =5


Will attack the next person, straight away too. Maybe aim for this guy's leg :D

In reply to Wulfe The Pretty (msg # 267):

It is not very fine quality, it is Good quality... nothing else on your character sheet.

7- 4 =3 x 1.5 = 4.5 and round down!... so 4 Damage ... that said, he is still down and out.

The Man in the middle is unarmed at the moment and stepping out of the way ... the 4th man has let go of the horses and is up drawing his sword and trying to figure out what the hell just happened. The Man on the right  steps around to put the bear between you and him, then tries to stab the bear ... but something goes wrong and nothing happens. The bear turns toward you since the wounded fellow backed away with his shield up.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 268):

Thomas tries to see what is happening, though from this distance it is hard.

Herkimer stands idly by as Wulfe rushes out to aid the bear's attack.
"Are we sure that these are enemy?"

He sighs. Fight first, ask questions later. If he were to be implicated by his fellows actions he may as well aid them without fully understanding what they have started. He moves quickly to gain visual of the three opponents to Wulfe and the bear. Sometimes it was easier to just slow someone down. He reached out with his hand, felt the earth beneath the axe-wielding armored opponent and ripped the earth beneath his feet from this reality. Sending it away.

ooc: Earth to air two cubic yards, centered on the axeman
07:15, Today: Herkimer rolled 13 using 3d6.  Earth to Air(15) - 2 Cu.Yards, vertically stacked (6'x3'x3') 10FP.

Even as the Bear turns on the man with the axe, he seems to lose control and screams as he drops from sight.  The Soldier running back from being dragged by the horses slows to a stop and looks at the bear and the fighter ... he backs away after a moment (he is still 5 yards/meters away).

Herkimer calls out and raises a hand.
"HALT! Stay your hand and you will live.

Herkimer wasn't entirely sure how accurate a statement that was.

In reply to Herkimer (msg # 272):

Thomas, seeing one chap drop into the earth, directs the bear to the man coming back from the horses.

It's a Foot race, and he has a 15 yard head start! ...

OOC: Bears can run at least x2 people speed
:) I reckon it'll catch him

The Bear launches itself after the running man,  and is certainly gaining, but the man makes it to the trees and finds a low fork that allows him quick access to higher branches ... he manages to get about 8 feet up when the bear arrives and pulls himself into a Higher fork, where he points his word down at the bear. The bear starts to climb up, but the sword quickly gets his attention ... he stops climbing and tries to grab the sword several times.

The man in the hole makes multiple attempts to climb out, but can't. The man on the ground struggles to defend himself somehow, but can't really, the standing man with the crushed right arm uses his left hand to cast  ... Wulfe finds it difficult to move his feet in the tall grass and small bushes around him.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 276):

Thomas will maintain the bear...but will have plenty of time to move closer.


"We seem to have an injured mage..."

wulfe took a running step to close distance with the casting mage. He recalled all too acutely the pain received from a previous engagement in Oakwood and was sure he didn't want another try.

He arced the blade as soon as he was in range and swung twice in quick succession, the first effort to take off the man's arm, and then shortly followed by his head.

OOC: after this, the others are all pretty indisposed and can probalby interrogate them. a little bit.

As Wulfe attempts this he loses his balance  DX roll -2 to stay upright. The stupid grass and stuff seems to be sticky and longer than you remember.

The man growled as he grew tangled in the grass, and kicked out as it stuck to him. Though he managed to keep his balance, the going was slower than he wished.

"Fucking Templars!" he cursed with pure venom and then looked directly at the man and snarled.

"Make whatever peace you can with your maker, Templar..."


OOC:
16:50, Today: Wulfe The Pretty rolled 9 using 3d6.  DX-2 balance.

16:57, Today: Wulfe The Pretty rolled 8 using 3d6.  intimidation (+4, for very very real and present threat of death). //pass by 6 I Think.

The Templar backs away, his right arm limp from the wrist down ... he is again mumbling and a sphere of wood appears in his hand.


Behind you, you hear some scrabbling and a foot step. [the man in the hole just rose out and stepped out on the ground].

The bear is obviously frustrated with the man in the tree, but can't get to him.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 281):

Thomas will direct the bear to the man getting out of the hole...

Wulfe used the opportunity to zig zag forward and cut through whatever lay in the path of his blade.  He rushed and roared as he he watched the glint of silver arc at the Templar's neck.

The templar backed away while the plants struggled to impede Wulfe's every step. After struggling another yard or so, he is suddenly free of the hindrance and again has to fight to keep his balance. Straight up DX roll this time... The wounded templar sends the now somewhat bigger wood ball that has pointed knobs on it, flying toward Wulfe as well. So a dodge or block roll ?

The Bear turns and ambles back toward the other man at a slow trot ... he is beset by the same plants Wulfe was. The fellow in the tree seems relived and is now doing something ... hard to say, except his sword now seems to be in his way.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 284):

Thomas moves slowly towards the group, pausing every so often to maintain the bear...every minute to be exact...

His determination didn't wane despite the frustrations of the plants, he just kept moving forward closing the distance with the Templar like an inexorable force.

The wooden spiked ball flew, and Wulfe just stepped to the side and let it pass, and continued his advance.





OOC:
09:51, Today: Wulfe The Pretty rolled 12 using 3d6.  dx (acrobatics?).

Dodge:
10:18, Today: Wulfe The Pretty rolled 9 using 3d6.  Dodge.
// Pass

Will cut him down as soon as in range.

What's the distance?

The templar backs away, trying to hold the distance to about 10 feet... he commences to cast again.

The ball of wood flies by and you hear it hit something  and a grunt, followed by a yell and a clatter ... a glance back shows the templar from the hole now on the ground with plants curling around him...  the other Templar in front of you curses ... and all the plants fall away from the fellow on the ground.  The wounded templar says something strange (like leviosomee) and as you advance toward him he comes off the ground and glides away more quickly.

Thomes has come even with the bushes and can see everything going on, like his bear jumping on the templar on the ground. The templar is able to block/cut with his sword while the bears swing misses due to that sword cut, but his bite gets the mans armored thigh... he screams and shove the point of his sword into the bear's neck& shoulder deeply, causing the bear to back away ... a moment later the bear is blowing bubbles of blood from his nose and has more drooling from his mouth. It is favoring it's left front leg.  The templar is obviously scared, but also determined.

One templar down and being trampled by the bear to much pain
One floating away with a mangled right wrist,
one up in a tree
and one on the ground with likely crushing damage to his leg.

OOC:

The templar is managing to back up faster than I can move forward?

He just started to move away at 1 yard a second ... you are/were advancing, not running after him... he is also rising higher into the air.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 289):

Thomas stops maintaining the bear, expecting him to disappear soon, and creates a stone missile...

Did any of the other soldiers follow me? I would expect it would have been suggested...
This message was last edited by the player at 02:31, Fri 08 Mar 2019.

No soldiers came with you, as you were just going to Geden ... supposedly.

Jaeleen is currently following Herkimer, who created the hole and then paused ... she has a small fireball in hand.

The bear is still there,  but isn't attacking.

Wulfe roared as the mage flew away and instead of chasing him further Wulfe ran and used his momentum to spin and launch his sword as hard as he could, sending it spinning into the air directly at the wizard.




All out attack(determined) - throw sword
20:37, Today: Wulfe The Pretty rolled 12 using 3d6.  Throw (determined) (15) - 4 /range?
// it's a fail,
// FML - i'd have spent a CP to make sure i hit, but 5 CPs in a year are too precious to spend on that! :)

Edit:

Moving a full move closer would drop the penalty to -3 and that'd pass.



This message was last edited by the player at 20:39, Thu 07 Mar 2019.

As Wulfe winds up to throw his sword, his precognition sees it tumble and hit ineffectively, leaving himself unarmed for the moment ... he does not throw away his sword. Even as he stops and controls his urge, a fireball flies by and hits the mage, Bursting in a flash of fire and setting his clothes afire. The man struggles to maintain his spell, while trying to beat out the fire.  The man in the tree jumps down and runs off after the horses, still holding his sword.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 293):

Putting a bit into the missile, Thomas unleashes it, preferably while the Templar is still climbing down, as long as he gets a clear shot.

In reply to Thomas O'Leary (msg # 294):

He is really just out of range, but then again, he can't really dodge....  rolled the die and it hits...rolled again and in the groin!!
Armor is basically immaterial ...  he is not dead, but wishes he was ... figure 14 Crushing damage.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 295):

Maximum range 80 yards, but half damage beyond 40 yards...

In reply to Thomas O'Leary (msg # 296):

I'm figuring just about 18-20 yards...

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 297):

Ok, so well within full damage range then!

"Rascallion, please make sure that one on the ground stays there, dead or alive is optional."
This message was last edited by the player at 04:32, Fri 08 Mar 2019.

"Good shot dear! He's really trying hard to get away... here, give it another go!"

Herkimer appears to be goading Jaeleen on to hitting the fleeing mage again and gives her a boost of energy to do so. He closed his eyes and concentrated, sharing his energy with Jaeleen infusing her with power.

23:25, Today: Herkimer rolled 12 using 3d6.  Lend Energy (3) (15). +3 Energy to Jaeleen.

In reply to Thomas O'Leary (msg # 298):

There are currently 3 Templars on the ground...

In reply to Herkimer (msg # 299):

Jaeleen summons another fireball into her hand...    The distance is getting long, master

"Then be sure to aim well..." Herkimer encourages Jaeleen to hold a moment and take her time to aim, focus and release.

ooc: this is just cosmetics, basically encouraging her to shoot.

In reply to Herkimer (msg # 302):

Thomas will take advantage of the longer range of stone missile, summoning another 3d one, he will throw it at the flying mage...


"You have that one, Rascallion?"

Jaeleen launches a 2D Fireball which misses ... but has his attention so that the following stone missile isn't noticed in time to do much.
He tries to avoid it, but takes a glancing blow that obviously breaks his concentration, causing him to fall from 3 yards up as well. The total damage suffered is considerable and he doesn't move after hitting the ground.

Only the fellow with the Axe rises, and he doesn't make any offensive moves, he just pulls his shield up to protect himself.

The other fellow Wulfe Whacked Heals himself.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 304):

Thomas directs any spare men to round up the survivors who are willing to surrender and gather the dead or dying, stripping them of their weapons and armour. He will let Lady Emelia decide their fate while he investigates what they had.

In reply to Thomas O'Leary (msg # 305):

There are NO Spare men... just Wulfe, Herkimer, You, Emelia and Jaeleen ... and two trunks that belong to Emelia.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 306):

In that case Thomas will have to do it all himself, starting with the one with the shield up...he will demand his surrender, and that he drop all weapons and remove his armour.

A familiar rage welled up within Herkimer but a look at Jaeleen caused it to subside. A passing thought of how life would be different without her in it gives Herkimer pause. But the darkness that lurks around that corner is a bit much to consider.

He follows Thomas and provides support as necessary though finds that between dropping a man into a hole and giving Jaeleen some much needed energy he was somewhat tapped himself.

OK, Screwed up and left Ser Bran out... he too is here.

In reply to Thomas O'Leary (msg # 307):

Surrender? to a bunch of bandits? you have attacked the emperors Templars without any cause, and we are on a mission for the Emperor ... you will be tried and hung  when caught.

The other man on the ground starts casting.

Jaeleen's head turns... a split second later her hand flicks and something causes the man casting  to yell and drop the spell ... blood oozes from a wound in his far thigh ... and then he begins to scream ... drawing everyone's attention... as some sort of weird plant seems to pop up out of his wound.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 310):

"Then die, murderous scum. Your claim of might does not make you right."

He mutters something and points to the man. A horrible smelling cloud forms around him!


"You mission was doubtless murderous in intent in the name of your evil emperor anyway."

The man steps out of the cloud with no apparent effect ...the cloud of yellow streams down into the open 3x3 foot hole...
Cur, You swear against your Emperor! then Die ... he hurls his axe at Thomas.  Dodge or do something...
This message was last edited by the GM at 16:43, Sat 09 Mar 2019.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 313):

[OOC: I seem to not have understood the situation. I thought the guy with the axe was on the ground and just got up, I thought the other guy that Jaleen was dealing with was over the hole??? That made the spell choice not good...perhaps a map was needed. Will take a hit I guess, DR5 on torso. Might be dead before anybody else gets off their rears...]

Thomas tries to dodge, but fails.

"I serve the dragon king, not some evil emperor. Your fool was never my emperor."

OOC: at the moment Wulfe is basically just standing around watching someone float off... I guess in this case he'd just go and find the next closest one to chop to pieces.

In reply to Thomas O'Leary (msg # 314):

The Hit is in the left leg (Thigh) for 4 points cutting less any armor.

In reply to Wulfe The Pretty (msg # 315):

Well the guy who just threw the axe is about 4 yards away over your right shoulder and pulling another axe from his belt ... he seems to have a couple more smaller hatchets there as well. He has his shield up.

The Templar is pulling another axe from his belt while holding his shield in front of himself.

What crap do you babble... a Dragon king? Hah! Like they have a brain! Dragons only have an appetite... and you should sate one and become all you can be, shit heap.

The Templar on the ground continues to scream hideously ... a plant a foot tall grows from his thigh!

Neither of the other two move or make any noise.

Wulfe cursed and turned to face the axe man. He spoke softly, "I guess you'll do then..." before charging, he drew his second blade too, in order to fight the sword and shield style of the man.

The templar turned to face Wulfe ... as Wulfe closed he muttered a series of words and a soft pale blue-ishglow appeared around him.

Herkimer tired of this game, throwing around words and insults and this and that. He clapped his hands and quickly drew them apart as a massive fireball grew, the immense heat causing his hair and robes to flutter as the blast-furnace before him stirred the air.

Herkimer rolled 9 using 3d6.  Fireball@15, 3FP.

Give it a twirl then flicking his wrists he sent the writhing ball of fire towards the templar.


Herkimer rolled 7 using 3d6.  Innate Attack (12) @ Templar.

3d6 Fireball

As the fire speeds from his fingertips you can see his shoulders sag as the earlier effort to be a pacifist and merely drop the enemy into a earthen hole drained him considerably.

ooc: Herkimer is now tired. FP@2
This message was last edited by the player at 19:14, Sat 09 Mar 2019.

In reply to Herkimer (msg # 321):

Clearly this man was a fool, deserving only death, and Thomas' expression showed that. But there was no point talking to fools, so he simple created a stone missile, and launched it at the remaining fighting templar.

Wulfe smiled as he saw the magical effect appear. At least it would make the fight more even.

HE stepped in and swung, feeling out the opponent.

OOC:

Defensive attack (sword swing)
+1 defense next round.

The Templars shield seems to deflect the stone missile, but the huge fireball is not deflected away and the man grimaces from the pain of what got through.  Wulfe's blow is deflected with out effort on the mans part.

Jaeleen concentrates and chants out loud... none of you recognize the spell, but the Templar obviously does ... he tries to move toward her, although she is some 3 yards away.

"Damn magical bastards...." he said, and then  stepped into close range and sought to thread one of his blades between the legs of the man. If he couldn't do damage, he could at least impair the movement - and hopefully trip the man - while keeping one of his swords available for parries.


OOC:

Okay, so rather than 'striking' the man, Wulfe will basically move in close and slide  his sword roughly between the legs of the man - o rsomething where it'd make contact if the guy changes his foot position.

It's not necessarily trying to cause damage, more simply just trying to throw his balance if he takes a step.

One sword will be ready for any parrying that's needed, of course.
22:35, Today: Wulfe The Pretty rolled 9 using 3d6.  Something something between his legs.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:35, Sat 09 Mar 2019.

In reply to Wulfe The Pretty (msg # 326):

Thomas tries to summon another stone missile, but distracted by the pain, it goes badly wrong.

In reply to Thomas O'Leary (msg # 327):

Yup, that does bad things... you are stunned and must make an IQ roll to recover before you can do anything.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 328):

Thomas shakes his head for a moment...

"Now that did not work right..."

In reply to Wulfe The Pretty (msg # 326):

The man stumbles and curses, turning back toward and readying his axe.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 330):

Thomas will instead go around those not fighting and remove weapons, knocking them out if they are conscious.

Thomas finds moving painful and the wound starts bleeding more. neither templar is awake...

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 332):

The pain reminds Thomas of his pain, and he casts a healing spell on himself. Twice, just to be sure.

Wulfe kept his distance and continued to use his sword to impede the movement of the Templar.

Jaeleen finishes her spell.... and something like a small flash of green light occurs... the Glow around the axe fighter is gone. The Plant growing out of the first templar down vanishes, but the wound on his back reopens as if never healed. The hole remains.

Herkimer pulls himself up into a proper standing position as the last spell he cast left him slumped.

He passes his staff to his other hand flexing his fingers and remembers, finally, his staff. He is tired and breathing heavy but that doesn't mean his mind is any duller for it! He points the staff forward, drawing a small circle in the air drawing once again upon the primordial power of fire!!

Herkimer rolled 12 using 3d6.  Fireball@15, 3FP (staff -3, 7 remaining).

Another large ball of fire is conjured, this time emanating from the powerstone at the end of the staff.

"WATCH OUT!!"


Herkimer rolled 12 using 3d6.  Innate Attack (12) @ Templar.

With no room for error the ball of fire flies across the open space, wobbling this way and that as it makes its way towards the victim.

6 damage

In reply to Herkimer (msg # 336):

Who is the target again, herki?

the weird glowing dude that soaked up his other3d6 fireball. ridiculous.

He soaks this one up too... Armor does protect some, but the flames do the job and all exposed skin is burned... his surtout and the Gambeson under his Maille both start to burn... hestays upright but is fully engaged in getting the burning stuff off ... his only words are Damnable Woman!


OOC - 4 points of magical armor on top of his maille made him hard to hurt ... something like a defense of 8 ... and he did singe some from it.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 339):

Thomas makes sure the others that are down, stay down.

"Rascallion, someone else is having all the fun burning that last templar..."

OOC: What happens with Wulfe?

In reply to Wulfe The Pretty (msg # 341):

Well it seems wulfe is still bent forward holding a sword between the Templar's legs...  The templar adjusts and bats the blade away and turns to strike the nearest person. Is that Thomas? Wulfe? Herkimer?
I know Wulfe is within 1 hex; Herkimer had moved closer that Jaeleen who is back about 7 feet; Thomas I am not sure about, although he is within three hexes.
Bran seems well back with Emelia.

Wulfe felt the sword move, and then just continued his harassment of the man, swinging his sword in big arcs. At least if he couldn't hurt the man, he could draw some of his attention.

The man turned stepped forward  and swung his axe at Wulfe-  He'll hit if you don't defend

I dispelled his protection Wulfe

Wulfe whooped a cheer and then stepped back, swinging his blade out to the side to parry an incoming  axe, his focus though meant that he missed the axe swing and the man grunted as he felt the bite of the axe-blade hit him.

Wulfe's response was instant aggression, and he thrust his other sword straight ahead right at the face of the man.





OOC:

17:26, Today: Wulfe The Pretty rolled 15 using 3d6.  Parry.
Not sure what damage he'll take but, these are his actions if he can keep going:

- Im pretty sure Wulfe is wearing fine mail.


(presumably he can't  parry with the same axe now)

17:31, Today: Wulfe The Pretty rolled 13 using 3d6.  Thrust, face , sword  18-5. // hit
17:31, Today: Wulfe The Pretty rolled 4 using 1d6+2.  Thrust damage, face (impaling). // if required

Wulfe's mail shirt stops some of the damage, so he only takes 4 cutting to the Groin and 2 additional from the blunt trauma ... he is at -6 for any action.

I rolled against your Health, and you stay awake, alert and upright. At 18-11 (-6 for wounds and -5 for the face strike) you miss with your other sword thrust.

You really should check out your character sheet ... you have a mail shirt  (nothing special) and leather legs with Jack Chains. You do own a shield which would have been more helpful if it had been used in lieu of a second sword. Your Dodge is 12 and Your Block is 11. An all out defense would likely have saved you.

The Templar lifts his axe back to strike again ... you will still be at -6 for this next turn.

In reply to Master of Fates (msg # 347):

Thomas is making sure the fallen stay down, though I am not sure where they are, but he will definitely be staying well away from the axeman. At least three hexes, if not further. Still no word on Rascallion?

In reply to Thomas O'Leary (msg # 348):

Rascalluon is right over where you sent him, making sure the other two stay down... which is sort of like making sure the mountains don't float away. The fellow on his belly near the hole, Wulfe and Axeman is lying pretty still...  he has a nasty cut across his back and into the muscles... he had healed it, but Jaeleen's spell undid that. Axe man is the current issue... the horses are slowly coming back and looking at what is going on... from a distance.

OOC: groin shot, ouch.

The man grunted as he felt the sting of the axe blade hit him. It had been so long since he'd been caught that the notion came as more of a surprise thanthe warm feeling of blood that flowed onto his leg.

Instead, of saying anything, Wulfe stepped back and crossed his swords to parry the next attack, hoping that stepping could give a little time to recover from the initial pain of the strike.



OOC:

All out Defence(double)
Cross-Parry

22:08, Today: Wulfe The Pretty rolled 11 using 3d6.  DEfence  (-3 for penalty) (12).// pass
22:08, Today: Wulfe The Pretty rolled 15 using 3d6.  DEfence  (-3 for penalty) (12).// fail

(Am pretty sure that the parry for wulfe is:
18/2+3 +1(C.R) +1 (crossParry) (-3 for shock penalty to defence, for the -6 total to skill)  == 11

If not then i guess he's hit

Wulfe is not attacked as the axe is an unbalanced weapon. Said Templar is hurt as well, clearly having been burned by Herkimers fireball.

Jaeleen starts casting...

OOC:

Ah, well I assumed it was coming in again because of:



I presume that on the next round the penalty will have subsided, and can go again?

Yes, and so can he...

As You  (Wulfe) stand there, Jaeleen stops mumbling, says something like "Sana u em" rather loudly and points her staff at you ... your wound stops hurting and feels tingly ... your mail still kind of floppy around the bottom,  but you feel much better.

Herkimer grimaces as his bones ache and he feels generally tired.

However he makes a fist over the ground and raises it, a small stone roughly the same size rises, then making a swing with his staff he strikes the stone which speeds towards the axeman facing off with Wulfe.


20:46, Today: Herkimer rolled 14 using 3d6.  Innate Attack (12) @ Axeman.
20:45, Today: Herkimer rolled 6 using 1d6.  Stone Missile Damage.
20:45, Today: Herkimer rolled 9 using 3d6.  Stone Missle (15) 1D (0FP).

The stone missile speeds past the axeman, but whistles through the air and explodes against a tree trunk behind the man sending fragments of wood everywhere. Herkimer whistled and called out.

"I can do this all day long! Maybe the next one will be your head!"