Having already decided amongst themselves that they would travel first to the Nymphs on behalf of "Knarr the Blue" to assist the gem merchant in opening a dialogue (And also for Doria to meet her cousins), Eurenomes addresses the party's new hirlings, Mugarod, Efimia, and Myrine as to their plan.

Mugarod volunteers that he is familiar with that river and supposedly where the Nymphs were known to frolic, though he has never seen one before. A short while later, the party travels north. Initially the party stays on the main road, however after a few miles traveling, Mugarod stops the group and points to a side trail commenting that this would be the fastest way to go as the main road would actually avoids the mouth of the river where the Nymphs were reputed to be and instead directed travelers towards the other villages in the area.

After a few hours travel on this side path, which had seemed to never end, they begin to approach a slope leading down towards the River Rhena. From this distance, they can look out and see the river wind its way into the heart of Hyperborea. Across the river and down some several miles towards a large stone bridge is rather large village community is growing. Mugarod points towards the mouth of the river where it meets the sea. Here, the sea feeds into Rhena at several points. Itylus points out a small chain of island that he can see in the middle and Mugarod confirms that that typically the Hyperboreans leave those small islands alone as that is where the Nymphs occasionally congregate around the shallows of those islands.

It is at this point before heading down the slope that Mugarod stops the group. He glances sidelong at Doria before he speaks, but ultimately he addresses the party frankly and fills them in as to his knowledge of the River Nymphs.

"Your business with them is your business, but these ones are shy to outsiders. Too many of us and they will not show. To one such as I, one who is ugly and brutish, I know they would not show." He continues with a nod towards Doria. "Their kin as her, and those they would consider fair in looks, they may show to. They may also try to kill."

Efimia adds her opinion as well. "My sister and I have not dealt much with Nymphs and their kind, but I agree with Mugarod that if we all of us were to approach them at once, they would hide away and not show their faces... Doria's presence might change that but still probably better if only a few approach them for now."

Myrine adds "Mugarod is correct in noting that they can be dangerous." She continues. "There is good reason why the Hyperboreans try to avoid those islands. There are instances where some overly curious men and women have approached only to be attacked or killed by the Nymphs." She adds "From what I have heard it is because there is an affront to them in their home, though none could make out what the offense had been."

Eurenomes strokes at his trim beard. "I will take the risk and speak with them; I am not weighed down by armour or heavy weapons and I trust in swift paced Hermes to watch over me. Doria, you are a daughter of the sea and Aleta you are fairest of us in form and silver tongued into the bargain. I suggest we three approach the Nymphs."

"But they are less likely to strike with one of their kind approaching with another woman close to her as in my wife and I. Unless someone foolishly attacks them at least. We three would be the best choice considering the options we have and being my wife should help Aleta survive this but stay close to me and hold my hand.," Doria said as she considered her options.

Aleta looks at Doria "So do your kind have a language? I wonder how many of them are out there? I just hope they accept me" She takes Doria's hand "OK, lets go see them"

Arthanos nods as Eurenomes lists people and why they should go. His arguments and reasoning were sound. As Doria and Aleta both agree, Arthanos finds himself nodding again.

"Your arguments make sense and it seems like a good plan. Itylus can hopefully provide some cover fire if you need it, and myself, Lysandros, Mugarod, Myrine and Efmia will make a very powerful reinforcing group if needed." he says to them "Just remember it will take us a while to come to your aid...so if something goes wrong, head towards us, don't try and stand your ground."

"We are in my domain and theirs once wet, if they decide to kill us near the water or in it will be the worst place for mortals to go. They won't likely turn on me but I can't be sure of mortals with me. But you use force they will attack.," Doria said deciding to go.

Aleta looks at Doria  "So, can you help me swim? I can but I am not as good as your people" she wondered what she could wear swimming.

"I sugest we get a small boat but you know I can adapt you to the Ocean realm I did it after we wed so you could see a hint of my birthplace.," Doria replied.

Aleta grins at the thought of going underwater again.

Itylus stared at the small chain of islands in the middle of the river. "I don't think the three of them will be in much danger, specially with Doria there. I've met groups of Nymphs before, and though they can be fickles creatures, they aren't the type to kill without a strong reason. However," he looked at Arthanos. " I will still follow them from distance just in case. As they used to say in my village, Precaution is the best friend of old hunters."

After Doria mentioned the need for a boat, the hunter pointed towards the the Hyperborian settlement upstream the River and across the stone bridge: "We probably can get a boat on that village. It would also be a good place to gather more information about the region, the Nymphs and hopefully the Bow."
This message was last edited by the player at 23:47, Mon 16 Jan 2017.

"We need sacrifices for the patron deities of the River Nymphs and the River, I suggest beer and wine and pretty mirrors of bronze for the nymphs as human crafted goods. To make a proper approach and for a makeshift alter by the river. Just some stones placed will do.," Doria said thinking of how best to do this.

"OK, the beer and wine we can get in the tavern. Is there a place in town to some mirrors? Also, what about jewelry?" she says to Doria as she figures she knows what they like.

Eurenomes, Doria, and Aleta begin to walk down the steep slope towards the river Rhena and the small chain of islands where Doria's kin, the river nymphs or Naiads were reputed to congregate as a colony.

Waiting until they gain a fair, but not too far, distance, Itylus begins to follow them to provide additional cover. While his companions take more to the open, the hunter naturally looks for places to camouflage himself, darting to small trees, boulders, and other environments as he looks out for danger. If any of companions had turned to look back, they likely would not have seen him, save for knowing that he was following them.

From above, Arthanos, Lysandros, Dysis, Mugarod, Myrine and Efmia watch the party members progress. Although it would take them a few minutes to reach their companions if there was trouble, they would be a strong reinforcement.

---

Eventually, Eurenomes, Doria, and Aleta reach the banks of the river though they see nobody present and certainly no nymph comes forward out of the waters o greet them. To the east, Doria can see where the river mouth eventually feeds out into the sea, her own natural element.

The three look at each other for a moment, an unspoken word shared between them that simply something did not feel right. Aleta's eyes grow wide for a moment.



"Look out!" Aleta shouts. She moves to push both her Dorea and Eurenomes away, however doesn't quite have the strength or time to physically push both of them, and so rather nimbly ducks and rolls to avoid from a barrage of arrows launched their way which had come from the west.

Fortunately, both Dorea and Eurenomes were alert enough to move quickly at her shouted warning and jump away from their position and also avoid the arrows that land in their positions shortly thereafter.

As the three scramble off the ground towards the direction the arrows had come from, they see approaching now a group of men and women. No Northmen were these people, but pirates and slavers by the look of them. Eurenomes (and Ityus, from his position) scans them and figures this likely the case, as some carried large rope nets which they could use to snare their prisoners, and the others carried more blunt weapons - designed to beat a person senseless, as opposed to outright killing them.

 Itylus looks with alarm as he watches the arrows land. He was covered, and it didn't appear that their attackers had seen or noticed him yet.

From above, Arthanos, Dysis, and the others see the faint forms of their friends ducking and moving suddenly.

---

OOC:

Eurenomes, Doria, Aleta, and Itylus do not have an exact count of the enemies approaching at this moment, right now they can see at least 4 enemies, and these are ones with the nets and clubs. The ones who shot the arrows are unseen.

brief and undetailed view of the potential battlefield at the moment:

------------------------------------------
river rhena                               sea
------------------------------------------

#                    123



             4




                     5678
                      9!

# = position of enemies
1 = Eurenomes
2 = Doria
3 = Aleta
4 = Itylus
5 = Arthanos
6 = Dysis
7 = Lysandros
8 = Mugarod
9 = Myrine
! = Efimia

This message was last edited by the GM at 22:06, Thu 19 Jan 2017.

Doria says simply ,"Head for the river and go deep into the water and swim down, my magic will help us there."

She will go with them and try to get into the water she being a far stronger swimmer the water her element although the sea would be better. And maybe the nymphs will aid them under the circumstances or not her kind can be fickle.

Once in the water she will give each her Kiss passing to them her blessing to breath and speak in the water and she can heal them next if needed. = 4 Power Pts.

Aleta runs for the river and jumps in, trying to swim down.

Itylus cursed under his breath. Pirates! He hadn't expected at all to find their kin here in Hyperborea of all sites! However that would certainly explain the supposed Nymph's killing reported in the area. The hunter immediatly imitated the sound of a crow's cry - the signal he had agreed with the rest of the party for great danger.

He then looked towards the direction where the arrows had come from. Right now those archers were probably the main threat, if they weren't taken care of, fighting or running from the pirates in the river would be much more difficult. If they weren't many he probably could take care of them with a surprise attack, however if there were many archers... well, he would think of something.

Though it pained Itylus not going directly to the aid of his companions, he trusted they would be able fend off the pirates until the reinforcemtns arrived. So the hunter started moving as fast and silent as he could to the west. Trying to find the archers and at the same time figure out if there were more pirates down there the river besides the four that had appeared.

Something's wrong!  And somehow I doubt the nymphs have attacked without reason...probably a trap, all along! Why didn't we consider that-?

After the incident at the inn, Dysis was rather exasperated by this little turn of events.   She was altogether weary of greedy, crude, dirty, lustful cretins.  Some god or other seemed to find some perverse glee in populating the mortal world with them.

While she'd be rather sorry to send such into the domain of Persephone, and her husband, it was likely either that, or leave her allies to some degraded, bad end.  And she was not about to let that happen.

But she needed to be closer, to offer aid.    So she began making her way down toward where Doria and the others had gone, as swiftly as she could...

Eurenomes needed no special urging from Doria. Judging the nereid knew her way with water, even of the fresh variety, he ducked his head beneath the service and dived for depths.

Doria instructs her companions to head directly towards the river and finds that they do not hesitate to do as she instructs, and within the course of just about 30 seconds all three splash into the icy cold river. Doria, naturally a skilled swimmer, immediately submerges. Meanwhile, after taking a deep breath (as they had lost their breath upon hitting the icy cold waters) Eurenomes and Aleta ready themselves to dive as well.

Before they do, their attackers had launched another volley of arrows towards them. Several of the arrows hit the water, but one arrow does graze Eurenomes' right shoulder. Fortunately, the arrow did not bury itself in it, but it was enough to draw blood.

Seconds later Eurenomes and Aleta dive swimming blindly towards the depths of the river. If it wasn't for Doria, likely the two would have been lost and would have to reemerge to breathe once again. Fortunately, the nymph finds them and it here that Doria bestows her "kiss" upon Aleta and Eurenomes and blesses them both by apportioning a part of her own natural ability to them. Stable for the moment, apart from the trickle of blood now coming from Eurenomes shoulder, the three find themselves being pushed along the river's current out towards the sea.

Although Doria is familiar with the water, the river is not her element and so it doesn't "feel" as right to her as the sea does. She cannot detect the presence of another of her kin nearby. At least, not at the moment. For now, she helps Aleta and Eurenomes maintain their position and watches as the two now find themselves in the unusual position (for a mortal) of being able to breathe underwater and even find the words to speak without inhaling water and drowning. It was a form of melding and is quite a unique experience.

---

Itylus moves swiftly and gambles correctly on the fact that the enemy is focusing their attention on the other three, as opposed to looking further up the slope. His bow at ready, he stealthily moves further to the west and finds a very defensible spot where he has both tree and rock coverage. Pausing a moment to catch his breath, he slowly raises his head over the large boulder he rests behind and gazes upon the enemy position.

What he see is not exactly encouraging. He counts out to himself the following from what he can see. He cannot be 100% certain, but what he knows for certain is that he sees:

* Six men, who are archers
* Four men and women carrying large nets
* Four men and women carrying blunt wooden clubs
* One man and one woman carrying swords

From his guess, the swordsmen appear to be the leaders of this band of pirates and slavers. Although he cannot hear what they are saying from where he is, they do appear to be directing their band, which was now cautiously approaching his companion's positions, likely awaiting for them to rise again from the river to breathe. Indeed, the archers have arrows ready to shoot again the moment they do.

Itylus ducks his head quickly as some of the enemy turn and scan towards his direction and up further the slope. Fortunately he was not seen and no alarm (or arrow) flies towards his direction.

---

From above, Dysis moves towards her companions last known position and thus navigates the steep slope down towards the river as swiftly but as carefully, as she can. Eventually, she finds herself on even position with Itylus, though he is a good distance away from her to the west.

She'd have to make a decision here. If she went much further (or simply stood still for another minute or two) she would no doubt be spotted by the enemy shortly and they would no doubt turn their attention upon her. She could also attempt to find some cover and await for them to come even closer.

---

As Dysis had moved down, initially Efimia and Myrine had started to follow with both alarmed that their friend was putting herself in danger so readily. However, Arthanos calls them back.

There is a moment of confusion as Arthanos initially orders Lysandros to guard Efimia while the rest head down. However, Myrine points out that, as stipulated in their contract, she was to guard her sister and would not leave her side under any circumstances. Thus pressed (and not having time to go into an lengthy argument with hirelings he barely knew at this moment) Arthanos consents and thus the two women stay behind while the rest begin to head down the slope towards their companions. The two do not seem happy about this order though and Efimia protests that her magics can help.

Dysis had already a head start on them at this point, and so the three (Arthanos, Lysandros, and Mugarod) make their way down towards her. They too are still out of range of the enemy though if they continued forward (or waited another minute or two) they would be spotted shortly. They could also look for cover, but gathered such as they are, they would have to spread out in order to do so effectively.

Arthanos realizes as he checks his companions that only he and Mugarod had bows should they wish to provide ranged support. Lysandros only has a javelin which was for far shorter ranges and naturally once thrown, was gone without replacement. All three had weapons for direct combat.

OOC: Lysandros will be NPCed right now. If his player reviews this and wishes to rejoin and have him do something different in future rounds then that is fine with me.

Otherwise - just to make it clear, the enemy right now is approaching Eurenomes, Aleta, and Doria's last known spot before they fled into the river. They are as of yet unaware of any of the others. If no further action is taken they will see you during and certainly by the end of the next round. Obviously if you decide to approach and attack then they will be made aware of you and will respond in turn.

Doria/Eurenomes/Aleta are limited in what they can do. They can if they wish allow themselves to be pushed out further to the sea, or they can resist or try to swim upstream or even head further north towards one of the islands. It's up to you. Unless you emerge from the water though you will not be seen by the enemy. Please also note that you are as characters unaware of what your allies will be doing.

Finally, if/when we close into a "close combat" then I will post a more detailed map, otherwise an updated undetailed view of the map is below:

------------------------------------------
river rhena              123           sea
------------------------------------------

     #


     4                6


                    578



                      9!

# = position of enemies
1 = Eurenomes
2 = Doria
3 = Aleta
4 = Itylus
5 = Arthanos
6 = Dysis
7 = Lysandros
8 = Mugarod
9 = Myrine
! = Efimia

This message was last edited by the GM at 16:36, Wed 25 Jan 2017.

Aleta looks at Doria for which way they could go. She is still not sure what to do.

Suicidal heroics were certainly not her way.   She was usually patient, and though striking first could sometimes decide a victory early on, there were other times it was better to await the enemy to come to you.

As well, they were not yet close enough for what she wished to do.    So, she took what cover she could find.   And focused her will.
This message was last edited by the player at 23:05, Wed 25 Jan 2017.

Doria was more worried about her wife and friend than herself, so decides to head to one of the other islands where they can get cover and secure themselves from the currents, but stay under the water for now.

Hiding behind the boulder Itylus quickly processed what he had seen and considered his options. One thing was certain, there were too many archers for him to take care alone. In fact, in total there were too many enemies. This could turn in to a very dangerous situation if they weren't careful...

He decided it was best to meet up with the rest of the reinforcements and share the information he'd gathered. That way they would be able to form a battleplan to defeat the pirates.

Itylus was considering this when suddenly from the corner of the eye he detected movement. He rose his head and spotted Dysis popping up near where he had been a few moments ago, and then disappear again in to the trees. It was his cue. He rose carefully, and then silently made his way back to where he had spotted the elementalist.
This message was last edited by the player at 23:11, Tue 31 Jan 2017.

Upon spotting Itylus, Dysis made a brief sign with her hand to him, just to acknowledge she was waiting, as well as aware of him...

Beneath the river currents of the River Rhena, Aleta and Eurenomes look towards Doria, who gestures to both of them to follow her north towards one of the smaller islands leading towards the sea. As they all swim underwater, Doria finds that she has to slow herself somewhat to wait for her human companions to catch up to her, but they are able to swim successfully away towards one of these islands.

As the three approach the shallower waters they find themselves being approached by five beings. As these creatures approach, they discover that that they have finally found the Naiads of the River Rhena! The five that approach them are of an unearthly beauty and though obviously similar to Doria, they appeared to be a little bit tranquil than the sometimes stormy Nereid.

One of the five, a Naiad with long golden hair that seems to almost envelop her entire body underwater speaks in Doria's own Gaian tongue to her: [Language unknown: Oreeenlat, os itonpllo ti ithivemenect be antingtin tinwitoun weree icnot wiioisti. Un omitol maerni il ta ome t pe ratainsan thiorethu compreaveherera.] As she speaks, the other four accompanying her take defensive positions, but appear non-aggressive at this time.

---

Back on land and at the river bank, Itylus moves quietly back to where Dysis and his other companions wait. As he moves, he feels drops of water splash on his face as it starts to rain.

Arthanos, Lysandros, and Mugarod wait and watch as their enemy approaches.

Meanwhile, just some feet before them Dysis had moved to some sparse cover and also watched as the pirates and slavers approached the last known position of her companions. During this time she felt the winds call out to her and she responded in turn. While her powers were limited in that she could only extend her mastery of air so far, but it was a force to be reckoned with indeed as her these slavers were soon to find out...

As the enemy closed distance, they spotted her as well as Arthanos, Lysandros, and Mugarod. A cry goes up among the enemy as they quickly shift lines, with the archers taking cover behind the nets carriers and clubmen. One of the men carrying a sword calls out to his companions. "Those ones there, take them now! Archers, fire!"

However, as the six archers ready their bows and as the others begin their approach, so did the power of Dysis' Talons. Indeed, coming now from her fingertips were small gusts of wind. No mere parlor trick was this, rather, as these gusts of wind came out they grew, doubling and then tripling in size into small whirlwinds coming down towards their targets under Dysis' direction. They would last for some time without further commands from her and would vex these enemies.

Indeed, nearly all of her targets were affected. The party can hear their cries go up as a result as the enemy either crouches down or tries to take hold of things to steady themselves, such as boulder, tree trunks and branches, or even small bushes. However, three were able to escape the whirlwinds. Two of the club carrying enemies break off from their respective group. One of them darting to the southwest about 30 feet, and the other doing similarly but to the southwest. They were still some distance away from the party but could soon close ranks.

One archer also escaped the whirlwinds now affecting his companions, and he choose to flee towards the river itself. Recognizing Dysis as the cause of this whirlwind, the archer takes one of his arrows and with a steady hand and fires it towards the elementalist. This arrow strikes true, and Dysis gasps with pain as the arrow pierces just above her left chest where it meets her shoulder. In some ways she was fortunate, as a slight movement by her could have resulted in the arrow burying itself in her neck instead!

---

OOC information

12:16, Today: Maze Master, on behalf of Itylus, rolled 19 using 1d20+12 with rolls of 7.  Stealth (and with Hunting Bonus this time).


Dysis casted Talons of The Wind Danger Evasion target number for enemies if 17, which is mystic strength of the caster. Only Club 1, Club 3, Arch 6 successfully made their saving rolls. As indicted above and by the map below, the club carriers are simply moved out of the way but closer to the party, while the Archer moved towards the edge of the combat zone (right next to the river) and attacked Dysis.

Archer #6 successfully struck Dysis, getting past her effective defense value (This is so even if she was using a shield)

13:10, Today: Maze Master rolled 18 using 1d20+5 with rolls of 13.  Archer #6 Attack Roll vs. Dysis.

Detailed map is now posted below. Please note that for purposes of this map, Doria, Eurenomes and Aleta are outside the range of combat and would have to spend one round in order to swim back into range.

Similarly, Efimia and Myrine are also out of range and would have to spend one round in order to come into range. In general, they can see what is happening and can hear you if you shout for them.

The enemies in red are currently affected by the Talons spell. The ones in purple made their saving rolls.




This message was last edited by the GM at 18:59, Wed 01 Feb 2017.

Speaking to the nymphs of the river after relaying to her companions ,"They wish to know our business before they will let us pass."

[Language unknown: Undiveres, astsi is tr diplun ne Linhatson leee n ndetictin ousticinelat Eeustras u conbe sonwitiou ce ioseri loic fi mete adis'rellst e u yinwilout ugh avederthe, eeckre nceng ncoul ic ers menallich houilliou eveorthat und hecaie. K rea sa larwitest ainsheill ce M anyhisnce sanhounte eauineast conardsti p rut ainni n ent oulat ssadulss. K erbete ion derhiswhiyin.

Ho fioer mabepe linthoureare lass kor t ant men resta a sthiarch p pacapo ect was a one m elall il riusca estme ngthwi it siate eranteion isitec sa whiredred iv thatrawhe, amend eveshelin dinll ng stikornde ntul e lail a mest onsri Ovenc cksies os nteinteenyin foone ha sihefi.

Eau M ma wa thenceion ilel n ssmoek u oles ica bewa arfiek ek whevsi roere menla onprun bleom hincivng thu n ac.]

ooc: edited by GM - put language group out of private so it shows up as "gibberish" for non-gaian speakers.
This message was last edited by the GM at 20:45, Wed 01 Feb 2017.

The golden haired river nymph looks at her sisters after Doria speaks and then turns back to her, replying in turn:

[Language unknown: Toone omsi i str pe ntom pano the il onepreoreine os astbutast t lalere nti eaunotrom traoulday t Alilre Ekneho. Tio outwi ngioss oulproastwer. K ce ch fi pente hohale ur prlepr e. Dercomsetorenot, i riilss ourameest ie en reheenin, astme hisvirlar...]

The golden hair nymph stops and gestures to one of the other nymphs and to Eurenomes who still bleeds. At the golden haired nymph's command, another one of the nymphs nimbly swims over to wily priest. Up close and near him now, she is even more beautiful to behold. This one has almost neon colored green hair flowing well down her back, and overall presents an alluring charm that is intoxicating and pleasing to any man who desires such forms. She is also one with the water, and so without clothing. This nymph gives the priest a shy smile, and tentatively reaches out towards his wound.

The golden hair nymph speaks, this time in the common tongue. "My sister's touch will heal your wound, mortal, with your permission."
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:05, Wed 01 Feb 2017.

Aleta watches the nymph's with fascination. She was so curious about all of this. She just hopes they can avoid the enemy.

Everything happened so fast. Itylus was half way to meet Dysis when he heard the cry from one of the pirates signaling the detection of the party hidding on the slope. More quickly than he would have expected for a bunch of supposely undisciplined bandits, they reorientated their lines to face the slope. However, before they could start moving towards them, powerful winds suddenly rose from nowhere and surrounded the pirates, snaring most of them in their place. Dysis! The hunter smiled, this would give them time to reagroup and strike the pirates. He was resuming his way towards the elementalist when the blur of an arrow passed in front of him and a gasp of pain signaled it had hit the target!

"Dysis!!" he shouted. He spotted the archer that had escaped Dysis' spell. Swiftly the hunter rose his bow and shoot his arrow towards the archer.

OCC:
09:32, Today: Itylus rolled 22 using 2d20+7 with rolls of 2,13.  Missil Attack v Archer #6 w/ Weapon of Choice.

It's actually a 20 and not a 22. Forgot how you do so the dice roller only counts your highest roll. Anyone remembers?

Edit: After some testing I was able to find out again how it works!
This message was last edited by the player at 10:04, Thu 02 Feb 2017.

"Aaahh!!"  she cried out, as she was pierced by the arrow, and a stain of blood spread on her garment.

She wasn't a warrior...didn't have the training, or fortitude of one.  Being injured in that manner rattled her...but, calling upon her formidable will power, she pulled herself together, and took quick stock of her injury.

And, offered silent thanks to the Gods as she did.    She'd live - thank Olympus it hadn't taken her in the throat!   And fortunately the magic, now cast, would continue to work whether she focused or no.   It had been effective enough, even though it did not ensnare them all.

Hearing the hunter call out to her, she reassured him:   "I'm alright, Itylus!  See to the enemy, defend yourself!"  Which it appeared that he was.  As for the arrow, she would need aid in getting it out...she knew better than to try and pull it out.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:08, Mon 06 Feb 2017.

Arthanos took a second to signal the female mercs to move down and help.

Looking at the enemies, Arthanos quickly draws his bow and looses an arrow at Club 3.

21:18, Today: Arthanos rolled 18 using 1d20+9 with rolls of 9.  Arrow vs Club 3.

OOC: In case I am slow on next post. As the enemy approaches, Arthanos will switch to sword and dagger (two weapon combat), and use sword which is his favored weapon (so 2 d20s and +1 bonus to hit). I will stay with Dysis and Itylus hoping to draw the other bandits up slope.

In reply to Maze Master (msg # 27):

"Permission is granted fair daughter of the waters," Eurenomes replied, eyes wide at the beautiful nymph. He smiles. "I must return to aid my friends, to show them fools to try the servant of swift tongued Hermes."

With a regretful glance at the green tressed maiden he prepares to swim into battle.

---

OOC: I'm hoping Eurenomes has time to both be healed and swim into range of the fight. Otherwise he'll swim as soon as he is healed!

Arthanos calls out for Efimia and Myrine to join the fight and from above, the two women began to hastily make their descent to join their allies. Around that same time, Eurenomes gratefully accepted the healing offer from the beautiful nymph before him, and then turned to swim back towards the banks of the river, leaving Doria and Aleta behind. Eurenomes finds that the nymphs let him go with no complaints, though they give Doria and Aleta curious looks, apparently puzzled by the whole thing.

As the wily priest makes his way through the river's waters, he occasionally makes his way up towards the surface where he can catch glimpses of the battlefield as it develops. He takes some care not to land exactly in the center of the enemies, but rather makes his way upstream some ways so he can have a better vantage point.

---

Dysis' whirlwinds continued to swirl and plague the enemy, though some of them were able to effectively resist the effects of her magic and moved as quickly as they could away from the winds. Indeed, one of the swordsmen, one of the club carriers, two of the net carriers, and one of the archers had broken free of the power of the wind for the time being.

Of those that had broken free, only the archer decided to retreat backwards to gain some further distance. Once back there, the archer hastily took aim and fired a shot at Itylus. However, the arrow came far too short and only struck earth.

Both Itylus and the other archer that had been unaffected by the winds traded arrow shots with one another. Each had fired their arrows accurately and struck one another, but the wounds were relatively minor on both sides. Itylus for his part had a deep gash now across the side of his left side that was painful but not nearly as bad as if the arrow had completely penetrated. A similar amount of damage was done to his enemy, where it had hit him but not as effectively as Itylus would have liked.

Meanwhile, the two clubsmen that had already been free of the winds completed their approach. One of them swings his club at Dysis' belly, hoping to knock the wind out of the young Elementalist and take her down, however Dysis is quick to dodge this obvious blow. The other clubsman had, similarly, rushed towards Itylus hoping also to take down the Hunter with a blow to the head. However, the sly Hunter was able to evade this attack.

It is here that Itylus and Dysis are aided by their allies. Arthanos had launched an arrow towards the clubsman now menacing Itylus and struck true, doing a great deal of damage to the man who had recoiled in pain with an arrow now sticking out of his right breast. Making matters worse for this man was the approach of Mugarod, and the Orki without mercy thrusts his sword and pierces the slaver's chest, doing a great deal of damage to him. By all appearances, this slaver was now close to death.

Dysis was aided by the approach of Lysandros who effortlessly also thrust his weapon towards the clubsman threatening Dysis and strikes true as well, doing a fair amount of damage to the enemy.

---

OOC: Beginning next round, Eurenomes is now in range and can rejoin the battle. (we can assume that he can reemerge from the water and move normally during the round) Myrine and Efimia are also now in range and will render assistance during the next around as well.

Just as an FYI for players, although some of the enemies were able to resist the whirlwinds this round, they are still active and if they fail their danger evasion roll the next round they will not be able to take any actions. The only enemy characters I am 'exempting' from this are the ones who successfully resisted the first round.




This message was last edited by the GM at 14:15, Sat 18 Feb 2017.

As the clubman had advanced on her, then swung, she'd done her level best to get out of the way.  Didn't need that, on top of the arrow protruding from her shoulder...

Thankfully, their other allies made a timely arrival to help her and Itylus.   While she knew Lysandros less well than some of the others, she was no less grateful when he stepped in against her attacker.

She continued to backup, out of the melee, considering what to do next.   Once she'd gained some distance, she'd decided, and again called to the spirits of the winds for aid, albeit a different kind of aid.  Unfortunately, she could not shield Itylus nor Arthanos, without interfering with their own archery...
This message was last edited by the player at 18:57, Fri 10 Feb 2017.

Ignoring the burning sensation coming from his left side, Itylus retreated togetheer with Dysis from the frontline - his warrior companions seemed to be handling well things there and at the moment the hunter's priority was to keep that archer from targeting his companions.

Therefore, after having retreated near where Arthanos' stood with his bow, Itylus swiftly grabbed another arrow from his quiver, aimed his bow towards the free archer, and shot.


OCC:

11:41, Today: Itylus rolled 23 using 2d20+5, dropping the lowest dice only with rolls of 18,3.  Missil Attack v Archer #6 w/ Weapon of Choice and after tactical movement.

I think I did a Critical Hit. Am I wrong MM? How much Defense do this guys have?
This message was last edited by the player at 11:53, Wed 15 Feb 2017.

Doria spoke to the Nymphs in their own tongue ,"Bad mortal men and women are up there and need to be fought, I'm no warrior and my magic is of little use up there against so many. My mortal wife might wish to help them let me ask."

Then turning to Aleta speaking in the common language ,"You can go up and fight I will not be of much help up there but will guide you back. If you wish me to fight I can but its not my strong point. What do you wish to do beloved?"

"Unfortunately, fighting is not my strong point. And if I come out of the water, I might be an easy target. Now if I could go up steam and sneak up on them, I might be able to do that. But you Doria should stay here and then if I need to retreat back here, you can help me"

Dysis' Talons were still in effect and the slavers continued to struggle against their impacts. Most of the net carriers were able to resist however, as well as one of the clubmen. Those that resist, steadily move forwards towards the party's position, weapons in hand.

Meanwhile, Itylus had moved back towards Arthanos' position. Spying his target from across the battlefield, he took careful aim and fired another arrow from his quiver. This was an arrow seemingly blessed by Apollo himself, as this time it did not merely graze his opponent, but instead struck the archer in the chest with such force that it knocked him off his feet! Itylus pauses for a second even as he drew another arrow, and he recognizes that this distant enemy is still alive for the moment, but is very likely near death.

Unfortunately, during this time a net carrier that had been able to resist Dysis' Talons had rushed towards Itylus and with practiced ease threw his net over him, ensnaring him in the net, and with a pull, Itylus fell to the ground.  Itylus fumbled, looking for a blade he could use to cut through the rope, but was unable to do so. Looking up, he sees an evil grin now cross the slaver's face as he pulls out his own dagger.

While this situation looked grim, The Gods smiled on Itylus through the actions of his friends. Indeed, Arthanos, noticing the bandits approaching their position, had put his bow and arrow away in favor to his sword and dagger, and seeing the danger posed now goes to his companion's assistance. Truly, the Nobleman's weapons are blessed by Ares and Athena, and with deadly poise, the Noble swings his sword down with such force upon the net carrier that the man nearly loses his arm, and falls to the ground screaming in agony looking at his now nearly severed limb in horror.  Arthanos takes advantage of the enemy's stumble and jumps on top of him. Coldly, he stomps on the injured limb, eliciting more cries, and then with great force plunges his dagger into the enemy's heart, killing him and silencing his screams.

Drawing himself back up, Arthanos has no time to savor this victory, and so moves to free his companion so that he could rejoin the battle.

---

A short distance away, Mugarod faces down his own opponent, however he times his swing poorly and misses the club carrier he was targeting. Fortunately, the Orki is aided by the sword sister, who, with her twin in tow renders aid and with one quick blow ends the life of the club carrier. Unfortunately, this put Myrine in a vulnerable position which an approaching enemy takes advantage of, rendering a stunning blow upside the sword sister's head which bruises and bloodies her face, as well as breaking her nose. Myrine cries out in pain and spits out blood as she turns her gaze upon her attacker, enraged.

---

Lysandros faced his own bandit and he regarded the enemy with disdain. With a short thrust of his sharpened sword, he pierces his enemy's leather jerkin doing a significant amount of damage to him, and indeed, almost kills the man outright. However, as he withdraws his weapon, he is met with an attack in return though it does comparatively minor damage to the warrior as he is struck in the face by the club, though it would result in a very nasty bruise later on.

---

Despite all the battle going on though and with screams of the enemy invading their eyes, the more "magically" inclined were busy as well.

For his part, Eurenomes took stock of the battlefield. His clothes were still drenched by the river water. While he could see the whirlwinds impacting the enemy, he did not want to face down a line of enemy archers should they somehow resist the spell, and so began a mad dash towards his party lines.

As for Dysis, the Elementalist had retreated behind Arthanos and Itylus, and would be protected by the two men for the time being, as well as Lysandros who was just a short distance ahead. Despite the pain radiating up and down her arm from the arrow, she focuses her concentration on the Air and Winds once again. This time something that would be more defensive especially given the number of archers that they still faced.

With her allies faces in her mind whom she wanted to protect, she opened her mouth and exhaled ever so slightly. The gentle hot air then began to multiply as it left her mouth, and quickly moved to swirl around herself, and her friends that she had pictured being Lysandros, Arthanos, Mugarod, Myrine, and Efimia. The only friend nearby that she did not envision in engaging this power of hers was Itylus but this was because she knew that this power would interfere with his Gods Given gift of archery.

The men and women watch as these swirling winds begin to whip around them, but unlike the whirlwinds affecting the enemy, these gentler winds did not interfere with their ability to move, but rather would protect them from the archers down the field. However, they would do nothing to stop a club, sword, spear, or net.

Finally, Efimia, the sorceress, uses her powers to aide her wounded sister, by casting a simple confusion spell on the club carrier now menacing her, something that would attack the mind directly. While those strong of will could shrug off the effects, many were unable to do so especially when confronting an experienced practitioner. Indeed, this enemy was weak of mind and so Efimia now projected confusing and disorienting images into the man's mind, weakening his resolve and ability to defend himself further.

---

OOC: Round Summary: I NPCed actions for Eurenomes, Lysandros, and Arthanos. Club 4, and Nets 1, 3, 4 were able to resist the Talons spell this round and moved forward if they were far away, and if closer engaged in attacks. The others failed their DE saving throw and were unable to take an action this round. Myrine was able to kill Clubman 3 who was already wounded, and the combination of his attacks and critical hits Arthanos killed Netman 1. Itylus scored a critical hit on Archer 6, knocking him down (and thus the Archer wasn't able to take an action this round). Lysandros successfully struck his opponent, and I figured that Eurenomes would probably want to move to his allies as opposed to taking an enemy, so he moved his maximum range of 60 feet.

I did not take any actions for Doria and Aleta, as it was not definitely stated that one or both would re-join combat as Eurenomes had. They are still outside combat range and it will take 1 round for them to re-join if that is something they wish to do.

Finally - FYI - on map, a character shaded in yellow is to indicate that they are dead. Those in Red are immobilized by the Talons spell, those in Purple resisted the effects this round.




This message was last edited by the GM at 16:44, Sat 18 Feb 2017.

Aleta swims to where Eurenomes as quick as she can but knows it will take a while.

Doria follows she can't let her wife fight alone and she still has her trident, and some training in it, for a Sea Nymph.

Eurenomes began reciting a prayer to swift footed Hermes, calling upon the cleverest of the gods to strike the slavers with his wrath.

---

OOC: I'm casting Divine Wrath on the nearest archer.

16:36, Today: Eurenomes rolled 7 using 1d6+5 with rolls of 2.  Divine Wrath.

Still with the taste of soil on his mouth, Itylus rouse from the ground with Arthanos' help. He looked for a moment at the dead net carrier. Though he might not look like a threatening person most of time, Arthanos was without a doubt a fearsome warrior in the battlefield.

"Thank you, Arthanos, I really own you one friend." Further gratitude would, however, have to wait. Itylus scanned the battlefield. The archer near the river didn't look like he would be much of a problem now. The hunter then spotted the two net carriers approching Lyssandros and his severly injured opponent. He pointed towards that direction and turned to Arthanos. "There! I think Lyssandros might need our help!".

---

OCC:
Not sure if I have to pass this round because I was snared by the net carrier and have to lift from the ground. In case he can attack, Itylus will shoot an arrow to the net carrier closest to Lyssandros.
This message was last edited by the player at 15:48, Wed 01 Mar 2017.

Dysis’ Talons continued to rage, and effectively immobilized near all of the enemy. Only two of the archers were unaffected. The archer that Itylus had effectively knocked down with his arrow slowly rose (unsteadily) to his feet and readied his bow weakly.

The other archer had found stable footing, and raising his bow and arrow took aim at Mugarod. His arrow flow true and pierced the Orki's armor doing a fair amount of damage to him. For Mugarod's part, both he and Myrine redoubled their own attacks on the nearest clubsman facing them. Myrine had missed her attack, but Mugarod filled with Orki chopped his sword down hard on the clubman facing him, doing massive amounts of damage. Indeed, the man looked close to death now.

---

Elsewhere, both Aleta and Doria took their leave of the Nymphs and swam through the river and within a few minutes time had come to the banks of the river. Like Eurenomes before them they had both made sure to swim upstream to a certain extent so as to avoid finding themselves surrounded and swarmed by their enemies. Indeed, Doria’s natural affinity for water and swimming allowed her to rise and check their whereabouts on land and help guide her wife Aleta and herself to a safer landing position.

---

Eurenomes, now closer to his allies' position contributes his powers to the battle as well and calls upon his patron Hermes' Divine Wrath. Knowing that the archers perhaps posed the greatest threat to them he directed the wrath of his patron onto the nearest one that threatened him and his friends. Eurenomes feels himself filled with the power and anger of the Gods such to the point that if this was any other situation he might otherwise explode. He then extends his arms and opens his hands towards the direction of his enemy. Suddenly, two bright bolts of pure energy – almost like a lightning strike from Zeus himself – poured forward and struck the archer straight in the chest. Here, the power was enough to kill this man outright, and he crumbles to the ground with smoking arising from his chest.

---

Itylus, assisted to his feet by his friend and companion, Arthanos, takes just but a second to dust himself off before surveying his hunter’s eye on the battlefield. Knowing full well the danger that the net carriers could pose, and seeing them approach Lysandros’ position, he grabs an arrow from his quiver and fires it towards his foe.

His natural skill unblemished by his recent entanglement, the arrow strikes true but unfortunately appears to have been blunted somewhat by the man’s light armor as it strikes his calf. The man yelps in surprise and pain, but certainly seems to be able to keep moving for now.

Lysandros took careful stock of the clubsman in front of him and with trained poise thrust his sword forward, which pierced the man's heart and killed him. As he drew back his weapon he saw his companion Arthanos rush to provide support as well with the nobleman launching an attack against the approaching net carriers. While Arthanos' dagger misses its mark, his sword successfully connects doing some additional damage to the man who indeed, had already been struck by Itylus' arrow.

OOC:

NPCed Arthanos, Dysis, Lysandros this round. As Dysis is a magician class I assumed that she would hang back and not engage in melee so she has effectively done "nothing" this round. I assumed Arthanos and Lysandros would continue their attack and played that out.

You can can ignore some of the additional rolls I did on the dice roller. I made attacks for some of the Net Carriers but realized that they were immobilized this round by Dysis' spell, so in fact they are unable to take an action.

Otherwise, both Aleta and Doria are back in play and can actions this next round.

Aleta tries to sneak up so she can throw a dagger at the archer in block D1.

Doria is less subtle she activates Nature’s Seduction dropping of all her wet clothing in order to affect the archer at D1 walking up slowly on the mortal invoking the divine powers. Hopefully distracting the enemy as her wife moves on them. As long as SHE doesn't strike the mortal shouldn't attack her. And a naked Nymph should be pretty distracting.
This message was last edited by the player at 21:14, Mon 06 Mar 2017.

The sylphs set to their work, Dysis held her ground, and watched for the time being.
There was nothing else she could immediately do, and she did not wish to expend her remaining power to no effect.   Better to wait and see.

She did not see these assailants were any match for her allies, in terms of skill. They'd had an advantage of surprise, of numbers.  But, those advantages were being lost.

The wound she'd taken, the arrow yet protruding from it, throbbed with pain.   With one hand, she staunched the blood, gritting her teeth, and looking forward to getting the damned thing out of her, once this was over...

Aleta tries to sneak up behind the archer and stab him as she puts her hand over his mouth.

GM Edit: the wrong dice roll for damage was used. It should be 1d6 since this is a stealth attack with a dagger.
08:24, Today: Maze Master, on behalf of Aleta, rolled 1 using 1d6 with rolls of 1.  Modified attack - 1d6.

18:55, Today: Aleta rolled 19 using 1d20+7 with rolls of 12.  Sneak up to Archer.
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:27, Sat 11 Mar 2017.

Mugarod's angered scream of pain called Itylus' attention. He noticed the Orkoi taking a clubman down with a savage strike of his sword and an arrow protruding from one of his sides. One of the other archers had managed to release himself from Dysis' spell and seemed to be the culprit. Right now there were two archers free, the one that had injured Mugarod and the one Itylus had almost killed some moments ago but that surprisingly was getting up and trying to shoot another arrow.  He had to take care of them. The hunter swiftly rose his bow and aimed towards the healthy archer first.

---

OCC


23:29, Today: Itylus rolled 25 using 2d20+7, dropping the lowest dice only, rerolling ones with rolls of 18,2.  Missil Attack v Archer #5 w/ Weapon of Choice.
Oh yeah, we have a critical hit here!


23:32, Today: Itylus rolled 11 using 1d20, rerolling ones with rolls of 11.  Critical hit roll.
Seems like my powerful arrow knocked down my foe!


23:35, Today: Itylus rolled 6 using 1d6, rerolling ones with rolls of 6.  Damage roll to Archer #5
Nice! Will turn to the dying Archer #6 if nothing happens!

23:38, Today: Itylus rolled 13 using 2d20+7, dropping the lowest dice only with rolls of 5,6.  Missil Attack v Archer #6 w/ Weapon of Choice.
I think i hit Archer #6 too, but since I am not sure I will leave the rest of the rolls to the MM.

Hope you don't mind me doing all this rolls myself MM! I just have so much fun doing this dice rolls and figured you already have tons of rolls to do so it maybe would help. But if that's not the case just tell me!

Dysis' winds continue to rage with most of the enemy still affected by the whirlwinds, though some are able to effectively resist the effects for a moment...

Having arrived fresh out of the river, Doria and Aleta survey the battlefield and each began to add their own influence to the battle. Doria, for her part, drops her wet clothing letting her nakedness show quite she approaches the nearest archer to her. The man doesn't stand a chance against the sight of her beauty and stands entranced, both entangled by Doria's beauty and love for her, as well as the whirlwind that continued to envelop him.

Although she is in the open, Aleta makes use of the distractions of the battlefield to stealthily move up dagger in hand. While her attack on the archer is successful, it has less than her desired effects as her backstab is thwarted by the man's armor. Fortunately, the archer isn't able to effectively retaliate against her for the moment given the winds. However, the injury does break his concentration and thus Doria's spell.

Further down the battlefield, Eurenomes after having unleashed his God's wrath, closes ranks sprinting further back so he can join the fighters. As he gets closer, he notices Dysis' injury and so moves to go render his friend further assistance.

Itylus was now hitting his stride with his attacks and so with deadly accuracy launches his next arrow towards an archer threatening his companions. His arrow meets his target with deadly effect. The arrow pierces the man's throat and effectively knocks him off his feet. He does not rise again.

Lysandros and Arthanos redouble their attacks on the enemy, pressing their advantage to gain ground. Indeed, Lysandros was a sight to see as the nobleman charges forward, sword glinting with malice. With fury, Lysandros then beheads the last remaining club wielder before him Meanwhile, Arthanos also pressed forward against the net carriers. With just as much fury as Lysandros, his sword strikes down the first net carrier who crumbles to the ground even as Arthanos pulls his sword from the man's body, stained in blood. He follows through then with his second attack his dagger stabbing the upper chest of the net carrier just behind the first, doing damage as well. However, the last living net carrier facing down an enraged Arthanos drops his net and attempts an counterattack with his own dagger. Desperation and perhaps close proximity assisted the net carrier as his dagger buries deep past Arthanos' armor and into the left side of his body doing a moderate amount of damage.

Finally, the party's hirelings, Mugarod, Efimia, and Myrine continue to press their attacks as well with Myrine cutting the throat of the already wounded club carrier, and Mugarod killing the net carrier that threatened him. Already, the three turned calling out to their companions that they'd be rushing to join them shortly.

Finally, two of the enemy archers that remained fired some of their arrows at the party members, but their morale was shaking and they had done poorly with the aim with the arrows falling far short of hitting their intended targets.

Indeed - with their attack on the party having been an utter failure and their allies dropping one by one, the remaining enemies (save for the one grappling with Arthanos) lose their nerve, and begin to yell out their surrenders and calling for mercy. Indeed, even as this happens, the net carrier facing down Arthanos drops his daggers and blubbers out an apology as he tries to flee from Arthanos. Even the sword carriers and the remaining archers drop their weapons even as they are affected by the enemy's winds as they call out for mercy from the party.

Morale Check 08:56, Today: Maze Master rolled 3 using 1d10 with rolls of 3.  Enemy Morale Check.

OOC: Archer 3 and Archer 6, as well as Net 3 and Club 4 successfully made their danger evasion rolls. Archer 1 was affected by Doria and Dysis' spells, however as I read the rules a successful attack breaks the nature's seduction enhancement and so Doria's spell is broken after Aleta's attack.

Enemy archers failed their attacks. The net carrier successfully hit Arthanos. However, a morale check at the end of the round is a failure for the enemy and so they are all now attempting to surrender as most are trapped and/or affected by the Winds spell.




This message was last edited by the GM at 14:06, Sat 11 Mar 2017.

Aleta will try to slit his throat to avoid the bad armor.

Today: Aleta rolled 6 using 1d20+5 with rolls of 1.  dagger on throat.

As much as he wants to kill those who attacked him, Arthanos knows that is not the way he should behave. He calls out to their attackers.

"Drop your weapons and lie down on the ground! If you do so, we will spare you! Fight back, and we will kill you!" he calls to them, then turns to yell at his own party "Try not to kill them unless they resist. They may have useful information or even other prisinors."

Arthanos' call is too late for Aleta, who had taken hold of her surrendering enemy and slit his throat, killing the archer.

The enemy throws down their weapons, and do not offer any further resistance.

---

After a few minutes, the heroes gather on the banks of the river with the small group of the now disarmed and helpless party of bandit and slavers who are now their prisoners.

In sum, they had captured two of the swordsmen and three of the archers, and one of the net carriers. Some had very bad injuries, but this was true amongst the party members as well. One of the bandits that had carried a sword looks up to where Arthanos now stands amongst the others. He speaks, in Minean "So what do you do with us now?"

Doria claims a good sword and put it on her waist and a dagger would be nice both are more practical than a trident to travel with as weapons go. Not she is much of a warrior anyway. After she dresses again.

"Maybe we should turn them over to the river woman and see what they do with them. " she says with a smile. "Are there any bounties on you all to make you valuable to us"

The hunter throwed a dark stare at their prisioners and kept his spear at hand just in case one of them tried something. "We could also deliver them to the guards of the nearby village, so they can be judged for their crimes. They are certainly the ones responsible for the killings and disappearings in this area."
This message was last edited by the player at 09:07, Sun 19 Mar 2017.

"I agree that is likely," Eurenomes admitted, "but the river nymphs have a good claim on them as well - perhaps we should at least speak with them?"

Eurenomes flushed a little as he thought of the fair daughter of the waters who had healed him.

The prisoners ignore Aleta's question about whether they had any bounties on them and give the party sullen looks as they debate whether to turn them over to local authorities or the river nymphs.

Approaching, Dysis put in "I think it would be a good idea to ask the nymphs what they would do.  This is their domain - I believe we owe them the courtesy."

Of the party members, Itylus, Lysandros, are slightly wounded. Arthanos, Dysis, and Mugarod have taken hits as well that are more severe. Myrine is perhaps in the worst shape but she is not close to death. Only Aleta, Doria, and Eurenomes remain unwounded by the battle.

Doria has significantly drained her powers, as has Dysis. Eurenomes too had felt some strain with his spell, but certainly could take time to recover his power as well.

As Aleta is not hurt and not as tired as some of the others, she does what she can to help everyone.

Arthanos considers the two options, then looks at the prisoners.

"We need to bind their hands. If they have harmed the nymphs, then we should turn them over to them. The Nymphs may also have advise on their actions. If they haven't hurt the nymphs, then we turn them over to the local law..." He says, then pauses and looks at Mugarod, Myrine and Efimia.

"Who would it be best to turn them over to?" he queries. As he waits for their response, he looks at the pile of loot and notices the bronze key. Picking it up, he tries to figure if it matches anything in the loot before looking at the prisoners, finally answering the one who spoke.

"We will take you for trial. I would like to know what your exact intentions were...and I would also like to know what this key is for."
This message was last edited by the player at 07:25, Tue 28 Mar 2017.

Itylus immediatly followed Arthanos' suggestion to bind the bandits. He picked up the rope they had found among their belongings and tied, not too gently, their hands behind their backs, in a way so they would all be connected to each other through the rope. That way the party would be able to march their prisioners in a line.

While the hunter was doing this he said: "Independently of whom we handle this fellows to, we should go to the Nymphs first. We have several people in need of healing" he paused a moment his work to look at his most wounded companions. "Doria, do you think they would be willing to heal our companions?"
This message was last edited by the player at 15:03, Wed 29 Mar 2017.

"If I had the power available within me, of course, but I'm too drained to do so. So they will need to or find a human healer in the nearest settlement and take the time to heal.," she said dressing but seems a bit tired.

 Lysandros had been watching the entire time, keeping alert to thier surroundings. It was the Warrior in him that always assumed a threat was near to hand.

With Aleta as his assistant, Eurenomes goes about the business of tending to his party member's wounds, such as removing the arrow from Dysis' arm and bandaging it, as well as his other companions so as to at least stop the bleeding. He could then consider later who would best benefit from the Divine Vitality that his patron Hermes could allow him to bestow to spiritually knit together torn flesh and broken bone.

Itylus binds the prisoners so to prevent their escape, not that they seemed that inclined to do so. As he does so, Arthanos had begun his interrogation and questions to them.



The bandit that had spoken earlier looks back at him with a sullen expression. "... It goes... to a lock." he says sarcastically. He speaks. "Look, either you lot hand us over to the the river witches who will drown us, or we are executed by the villagers as bandits, thieves, and pirates. So, I don't see why I should tell you anything, matey, when we have nothing to gain by it."

Mugarod shifts uncomfortably. Although the arrow that had struck him had now been skillfully removed by Arthanos he was still in some pain from the blow. "In my opinion, you take them to the locals. Likely they are known and perhaps you'll even get a bounty." he says with a nod to Aleta. "If nothing else, it'll build you some goodwill with the locals here, I'd wager.

Myrine and Efimia had exchanged knowing looks, and shortly after Mugarod offered his opinion, Myrine offers that of her and her sister: "Our prisoners appears to be manhunters, looking for slaves to bring to market." She gives a wry grin as she considers them and they give her sullen looks in return. Myrine continues. "Although they outnumbered us, I bet this is only a small number of them. No doubt our prisoners here have a longboat or ship someplace within marching distance and probably a lair or hideout where the rest of them keep their slaves."

Given her background, Dysis had a particular loathing for slavery, and those who worked at perpetuating it.

"Those are good points.   It may well be that you are right, in that.   We need to find out, and free them, if so.   And, it may be that someone among their number will be more helpful in telling us something about that key. Or, that it may fit something within their hideout. Perhaps the master key to the slave pen, itself?"


She cast a dark look in the direction of the captive pirates.   "Do not think of bargaining, with the likes of these.  They'll lie, almost surely.   I still say the nymphs should be consulted first -- and, if they've nothing against it, then give them to the local authority." 
This message was last edited by the player at 19:12, Wed 29 Mar 2017.

"I have an idea we could sell them into slavery instead of the other choices if and only if you tell us about the key and if its a treasure chest then where it is, its better than death and more just to me, since they enslaved people its fair they are forced into servitude. If they are  helpful we will perhaps sell them to a noble or man with agricultural land to farm over a salt mine or other worse situation. Its at least a reasonable option and perhaps if they have a ship we can take that as a prize.," Doria said not caring for the scum but slavery might be a better choice for them than death.

"I agree, if anyone talks, we sell them into slavery. Otherwise we turn them over to the locals that might have a bounty on them"

"It's clever thinking, Doria --  but, what is to keep them from lying to us? We might end up in some danger, by taking their word.   And, how long must we keep them, until we find someone who is interested?  Were I a noble, I'd think twice about purchasing a bunch of cutthroats. Most of them would kill to regain their freedom, given the chance."     Her dark eyes moved again toward the captives, a frown on her lips.

"I would think if they are bought as slaves, its to the mines or something, not as house servants but it lets them live and have hope of escaping. I say we only let one go that way, who ever tells us the most"

"That is true."    It was worth playing along with, to see what they might get from the pirates, in any case.

"Well, surely you are not deaf," she turned and spoke to the pirates.

"You've heard the mercy proposed by our enchanting nymph friend.  Would you like to offer something, in return for it?"

The spokesman for the small band of surviving bandits gives Dysis (and Doria) an incredulous look. "Slavery is profitable, but it is no kind mercy, matey." he shakes his head. "You have not the look of slavers nor do you look like you know the markets that would consider taking scum such as us. I doubt you are prepared to transport us hundreds of miles south for a handful of silver a head, assuming we even survive the trip." The prisoner gives a toothy smile. "However, if you set us free, then perhaps we can offer something that may interest you." he gives a slight nod to he bronze key that Arthanos holds. "Such as information to what that key might go to, or maybe even about our captain and the treasure he holds and searches for."

Mugarod interjects, speaking softly to the other party members so their prisoners could avoid hearing them. "Sometimes the carrot works, but bargaining is a weakness with people such as this. Brutality is what they will respond to. If not their leader, then another in their midst." He darts his eyes from one person to another. "Allow me to play the role of the 'beast' here, even if it means killing one or more of them to make your point. They will then talk and you will learn whatever it is you want to know.

Aleta sighs "Go for it" she whispers to Mugarod .

This thread is now closed.