RolePlay onLine RPoL Logo

, welcome to Fildegarne

06:23, 29th March 2024 (GMT+0)

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days.

Posted by Dungeon MasterFor group 0
Dungeon Master
GM, 131 posts
Roller of Dice
Giver of Trinkets
Wed 22 Mar 2017
at 14:25
  • msg #1

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"Welcome back".

The words echo and ring in your head. You can't see anything, but you can feel. A radiating warmth surrounds you, thawing the chill from your bones.

"Can you hear me?".

You still can't move or see.

"How long does this take, lieutenant?".

"Shouldn't be much longer sir, we just have to slowly increase the heat to unweave the crystal matrix".

Many minutes pass before hazy figures begin to the take shape in front of you. You can see the door frame of the pod around you, and the door appears to be open. When your sight finally is able to focus, you see Sylas standing there, in a military officer's uniform, arms folded behind his back.

"I was beginning to think you all preferred stasis sleep" he says with a slight chuckle. "Take your time though, move about when you're ready. You'll want to stretch I'm sure".
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:26, Wed 22 Mar 2017.
Beloc S'Viscus
player, 96 posts
Wood Elf
Fighter/Druid - Gestault
Wed 22 Mar 2017
at 15:58
  • msg #2

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Beloc looks around, still groggy from the stasis, but clearly still alive. He doesn't try to stand up yet. "What happened? What did you do to us? That ... goop ..."

Sylas is still standing there outside the pod, paying a bit more attention to the overall thawing process than Beloc. "Where are we?"
This message was last edited by the player at 16:29, Wed 22 Mar 2017.
Shiaran Whiteraven
player, 84 posts
Human
Wizard/Rogue Gestault
Wed 22 Mar 2017
at 17:01
  • msg #3

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Shiaran wakes and feels the disorientation.  She tries the meditation thing for about five seconds, but gets impatient.  Instead, she tries to rise.  She gets halfway out of her pod before the dizziness and a pounding headache slams her back down into the seat.  "Oof!"  Finally, she is able to focus.  The first thing she sees is Sylas in the different uniform.  Clearly he was woken first, had time to shower and change, and now stands over them with all the power.

Shiaran struggles for her sais, knowing that the pod is too cramped for her sword.
Sylas Glen
NPC, 23 posts
Admiral
Fildegarian Navy
Wed 22 Mar 2017
at 18:54
  • msg #4

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"Easy now everyone, easy. Prolonged stasis sleep takes a toll on you. That "goop" as you called it was what I was referring to when I said you weren't going to like the idea, and that was also what I was talking about when I said it would allow you to survive the fall. I just didn't anticipate being in stasis for so...long". He calmly walks over to Shiaran's pod and extends his hand to offer her assistance getting up and out.
Dungeon Master
GM, 132 posts
Roller of Dice
Giver of Trinkets
Wed 22 Mar 2017
at 19:02
  • msg #5

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

The lieutenant in the room working the machinery says "The process is complete Admiral Glen. Shall I take my leave now?".

Syland nods to him, and the lower ranking officer along with a few other men leave the room, leaving just Sylas.
Beloc S'Viscus
player, 97 posts
Wood Elf
Fighter/Druid - Gestault
Wed 22 Mar 2017
at 19:03
  • msg #6

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Beloc tries to sit up a bit. "What do you mean 'for so long'?"

He raises an eyebrow as a puzzled look appears on his face.
Sylas Glen
NPC, 24 posts
Admiral
Fildegarian Navy
Wed 22 Mar 2017
at 19:05
  • msg #7

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Sylas looks solemn. "Eleven years. 7 months. And twenty-three days".
Shiaran Whiteraven
player, 85 posts
Human
Wizard/Rogue Gestault
Wed 22 Mar 2017
at 20:01
  • msg #8

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Shiaran takes in the information with a very heavy dose of incredulity.  She forces herself out of the pod and summarily falls to the ground at Sylas's feet.  "I..."  She gasps for air and from the pain.  "I should...have killed...you on the...ship!"
Sypher Whiteraven
player, 69 posts
Human
Paladin/Monk - Gestault
Wed 22 Mar 2017
at 20:08
  • msg #9

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Sypher wakes as well, but quiets his mind of questions until his body is able to function properly.  His breath is deep and his body finally comes into equilibrium before he finally opens his eyes.  He sees Sylas and gives him a nod.  The military uniform sets him further at ease.  He shifts his senses to auras, his gaze remaining on Sylas.

He waits, though.  His body needs more time to adjust.  Then Sylas drops the bombshell in answer to Beloc's question.  Shiaran, as was typical, wants to fight him, fight the circumstances of their situation.  The effort is empty.  Rest in Jehovah, and wait patiently for Him: fret not yourself because of him who prospers in his way, because of the man who brings wicked devices to pass.

"Easy, Shiaran.  It isn't Sylas."  Sypher's voice is calm, even, measured.  He rises out of the pod with little difficulty and stands.  He stretches, once for his transverse axis, once for his medial, and one final time for his longitudinal.  Then he walks over to Shiaran and helps her stand.  "He was a plant, undercover."  His words are a guess, but they are more to keep Shiaran from trying to kill Sylas and looking like a fool in the process.  "He saved our lives."
Shiaran Whiteraven
player, 86 posts
Human
Wizard/Rogue Gestault
Wed 22 Mar 2017
at 20:10
  • msg #10

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Instead of standing, Shiaran rolls to her bottom and leans back against the pod.  She flings the sais across the floor and buries her face in her hands, then draws her knees up and rests her forehead on them, weeping.
Sypher Whiteraven
player, 70 posts
Human
Paladin/Monk - Gestault
Wed 22 Mar 2017
at 20:12
  • msg #11

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Sypher kneels next to her and places a hand on her back.  "But I have trusted in your mercy; my heart shall rejoice in your salvation."  When Shiaran leans over into him, Sypher wraps her in his arms, places his chin on her head, and shushes her gently.
Beloc S'Viscus
player, 98 posts
Wood Elf
Fighter/Druid - Gestault
Wed 22 Mar 2017
at 20:22
  • msg #12

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Beloc slumps back into his chair, looking somewhat stunned. "Is this true? Were you some sort of a spy, infiltrating the Widow?"
Sylas Glen
NPC, 25 posts
Admiral
Fildegarian Navy
Wed 22 Mar 2017
at 20:49
  • msg #13

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Sylas still stands with his arms folded behind him. "Yes. For the better part of eight years, I worked in secret within the Bleeding Palm. I had to fully entrench myself with them for gathering the information Fildegarne sought. Until recently. Well, "recent" being a relative term at this point. Once I discovered that Oro and Gazra had been sighted, I personally volunteered for their capture. I knew it was my way out of that infernal death cult. I.. apologize for the cloak and dagger business of it all. The three of you were never a variable I could have accounted for".

The word "three" gives everyone pause. Gazra's pod is in the room, but is empty. As is Oro's, also empty. Iro's pod is nowhere to be found.

Seeing everyone looks around, he speaks. "The young half elf, Iro. His pod has been exceptionally difficult to locate. Unfortunately, the majority of the pods as I'm told came to rest at the bottom of a rather deep ocean trench. Iro's, seems to be even deeper. Rest assured, we have people working on a solution to recover him".

"There's a lavatory just beyond that door over there, and if anyone has an appetite, I've had the cooks down at the mess whip up a variety here" he says, pointing at a long buffet style table and trying to change the subject. There are several wing back chairs that look like they've been pulled in to the room. The space itself, aside from the coral and algae encrusted pods, looks antiquated. The stone walls remind everyone of an old fortress, but there are several additions to the room that make it appear to have been updated a bit. The room is around thirty foot wide, and about 15 foot deep. The long wall behind the table of food is almost all large glass window panes. The sky looks similar to the one everyone saw prior to going into stasis sleep. The pods sit centered on the long wall opposite the windowed wall. There are two doors, one for the lavatory, and one that the officers exited from.
This message was last edited by the player at 21:42, Wed 22 Mar 2017.
Sypher Whiteraven
player, 71 posts
Human
Paladin/Monk - Gestault
Thu 23 Mar 2017
at 03:03
  • msg #14

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Sypher rises and gently pulls Shiaran to her feet.  He takes the sais from her hands and carries them for her to the table.  She leans over and puts an arm on the table then rests her head on it, sobbing quietly.

Sypher looks at the sais and grimaces.  "Your stasis liquid works very well.  It seems that almost no time has passed since the battle.  Her sai still carries the gore from the Flagellant and it remains only minutes old."  He looks around for others, but only sees Sylas and Beloc.  "Perhaps a chance to clean up after the battle might be more in order for the moment.  Shiaran and I do not feel like eating."
Shiaran Whiteraven
player, 87 posts
Human
Wizard/Rogue Gestault
Thu 23 Mar 2017
at 03:06
  • msg #15

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"No."  Shiaran grabs the sais and slams them down on the table, which rattles the dinnerware.  "I'm starving.  I haven't eaten for almost a decade."  Her words are heavy with electricity like the air before a thunderstorm.  She finds a napkin and a pitcher of water and washes her hands over the floor leaving a red-stained puddle to the left of her chair.  Then she proceeds to dive in to the food with zeal.
This message was last edited by the player at 15:58, Wed 25 Apr 2018.
Sypher Whiteraven
player, 72 posts
Human
Paladin/Monk - Gestault
Thu 23 Mar 2017
at 03:10
  • msg #16

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Sypher sighs heavily and bows in apology to Sylas.  He looks around for some kind of wash basin for his own hands.  Finding one in the corner on a rolling cart, he cleans himself up and checks for wounds.  Beloc's heal right before Iro's fire crystal went off had sealed up any lacerations.  Only the slight burns from the fire remain.  Nothing he won't recover from with a little rest.

Civility taken care of, Sypher goes back to the table and sits to Shiaran's right.  He is more polite about it, but he eats with no less determination than she.  Neither of them seem interested in asking questions.  That does not mean they aren't listening.
Sylas Glen
NPC, 26 posts
Admiral
Fildegarian Navy
Thu 23 Mar 2017
at 11:08
  • msg #17

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"I understand your anger, and the gravity of this situation. The amount of time that's passed came as a shock to myself as well. It truly never was my intention for us to remain isolated from the world like that for so long. I figured on a week or two as the worst, but I couldn't have foreseen the scenarios that played out as rapidly as they did. Although I activated my beacon to have us found, the gunship that brought down the Widow wasn't able to remain in the area. It was only until recently the blockade over the area was broken through and scattered. I don't know how to tell you all this beyond just putting it out there, but we are at war. The Bleeding Palm has allied with the Calishites of the Calim Empire, and a rogue offshoot of the Red Wizards of Thay. My calling for the gunship to down the Widow was seen as an act of war. I knew Gheevorah had reached out to the pashas of Calim, but even I was kept in the dark about just how deep that involvement would be". Sylas takes a moment to remove his officer's cover and wipe his brow, and lets out a deep sigh. "This whole ordeal is a gigantic mess, and I find myself at the center of it. To say that I'm regretful for others being drug into it is a massive understatement".
Dungeon Master
GM, 133 posts
Roller of Dice
Giver of Trinkets
Thu 23 Mar 2017
at 12:11
  • msg #18

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

There is a knock at the door. A junior officer pokes his head in to the room. "Pardon, sir, but your visitor is asking to come in".

Sylas nods to the man who opens the door, and junior officer steps out of the way. In steps a rather short man with bushy eyebrows, and thinning hair. He wears mechanics overalls.
Wally Glenholme
NPC, 28 posts
Flight Engineer
Thu 23 Mar 2017
at 12:13
  • msg #19

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"Bless me, you're all alright" Wally says with a massive grin. "I was worried that even after we recovered you, something may have happened".
Sylas Glen
NPC, 27 posts
Admiral
Fildegarian Navy
Thu 23 Mar 2017
at 12:22
  • msg #20

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"Wally here was instrumental in recovering you all. Initially the Naval forces that were able to claim the area only recovered me. That was about a month ago. This enterprising fellow found out of my retrieval, through channels unknown to me, and managed to petition me about recovering you all. I had of course intended your recovery from the start, but the beuracry of military life made it a slow process. Someone-" says Sylas, nodding in Wally's direction, "threatened to go to the press about it. Of course, that was entirely his idea" says Sylas with a wink. "If anything, Wally is the hero of the day in this. He pioneered the search, doning a dive suit of his design day in and day out, and is personally responsible for locating each of you".

Wally beams at everyone. Partially out of pride, and partially still from his relief that the thawing process was a success.
Beloc S'Viscus
player, 99 posts
Wood Elf
Fighter/Druid - Gestault
Thu 23 Mar 2017
at 12:55
  • msg #21

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Beloc finally composes himself enough to rise and join the others. He is heartened to see Wally, as that means the Sky Burrow made it to port.

"That is yet to be seen", he rubs some soot and char from his armor as he replies to Wally. "The Burrow made it to port then? Everyone make it off safely?"
Wally Glenholme
NPC, 29 posts
Flight Engineer
Thu 23 Mar 2017
at 13:25
  • msg #22

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"Thanks to you all, everyone was recovered. We had zero casualties, only minor injuries here and there".
Sypher Whiteraven
player, 73 posts
Human
Paladin/Monk - Gestault
Thu 23 Mar 2017
at 17:22
  • msg #23

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Sypher stands and walks over to Wally.  He shakes hands with the gnome.  "I am glad to see you made it, glad to hear the ship survived.  Is she still in the skies?"
Shiaran Whiteraven
player, 88 posts
Human
Wizard/Rogue Gestault
Thu 23 Mar 2017
at 17:24
  • msg #24

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Shiaran also stands and walks quickly to Wally.  She wraps him up in a hug.  "Omf mmfmff..."  She chews hurridly and swallows.  "I'm happy you made it, too!"  She glares at Sylar.  "A decade has been kind to you."
Sylas Glen
NPC, 28 posts
Admiral
Fildegarian Navy
Thu 23 Mar 2017
at 17:41
  • msg #25

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Wally nods, responding to Sypher, and in between Shiaran's hug. "Flying high and pretty. Though, she has teeth now. Belongs to the Navy. I headed up the overhaul myself. It's my finest build yet".

Sylas, then responds to Shiaran.
"If you haven't noticed already, it's been kind to you as well. The nature of the stasis liquid in the pods ensures that the inhabitants effectively cease to age. It was designed some time ago, not by me of course. The idea behind it is that if the inhabitants of the pods are lost for long periods of time or are trapped, they won't simply die of starvation or lack of air. There is also the unpleasantry of being isolated and going mad that's avoided. But, again, had I known what we were getting in to, I'd have never suggested anything of the sort. Melf's Law I suppose. If it can go wrong, it probably will. I'm sure you've all heard enough of me for a time, and I know this has been a lot of information to digest. You all take as long as you need to rest your bones here. If you'd prefer a more private setting, we have a few vacant officer's quarters that I'll let my staff know are free to whomever here wants one. You're more than welcome as well to get out in the open air and stretch your legs around the yards. I'll ask that you at least stay long enough for us to have a proper talk once more, if and when you're feeling up to it. If you truly don't wish to though, I'll ensure that the MP's at the gate don't bar your exit. In the mean time, I have some matters to attend".

Sylas moves to leave the room. As the door to exit opens, the junior officer outside snaps to attention as Sylas passes. A quick "carry on" is heard from Sylas and the door quietly closes.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:43, Thu 23 Mar 2017.
Sypher Whiteraven
player, 74 posts
Human
Paladin/Monk - Gestault
Thu 23 Mar 2017
at 18:03
  • msg #26

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Sypher and Shiaran return to their meal.  They talk, and sometimes argue, in low tones.  Shiaran is the most animated, standing up twice to whisper yell down at Sypher.

Sypher, for his part, remains calm and reasonable the whole time.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:03, Thu 23 Mar 2017.
Beloc S'Viscus
player, 100 posts
Wood Elf
Fighter/Druid - Gestault
Thu 23 Mar 2017
at 18:23
  • msg #27

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Beloc cleans himself up and rejoins the rest in the dining area. He observes, mostly, during the initial conversations. Possibly, still recovering from the stasis, or perhaps just assessing the situation.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:40, Thu 23 Mar 2017.
Wally Glenholme
NPC, 30 posts
Flight Engineer
Thu 23 Mar 2017
at 21:05
  • msg #28

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Once everyone is fed and is starting to unwind a bit, Wally speaks up. "I know I didn't know you all that long, but I wanted to say thank you. Not just for me, and not just for my ship, but for all the lives that were on board, passengers and crew alike. If it hadn't of been for you all stepping up in a dire time of need, I doubt we would have made it". Wally reaches for a small piece of bread, and remembering it isn't meant for him, pulls his hand back. "I haven't known Sylas that long either, but I can tell you he isn't a bad person. I overheard him talking to an advisor of his, back on the ship we used to salvage your pods from the deep. Blames the whole war on himself. It was hard not to hate him at first, and I don't entirely know what he was doing within that cult, but I do know - again, from "overhearing", - that he was on orders from King Ghendrake himself. It's been a rough decade or so. Honestly, you all are lucky to have not had to live through the bulk of it. This war has been like nothing I've ever heard of".
Sypher Whiteraven
player, 75 posts
Human
Paladin/Monk - Gestault
Thu 23 Mar 2017
at 21:34
  • msg #29

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"Wally, we could have done no less.  'Greater love no man has than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.'  We are glad to have been there to serve."  He looks at Shiaran who looks less hostile.  She nods and Sypher continues.

"Truth be told, we haven't lost anything in this, not even time it appears.  Our house was wiped out when we were children.  We are all that remains of House Whiteraven.  I am fulfilled in service and my...and Shiaran likes the challenge-"
Shiaran Whiteraven
player, 89 posts
Human
Wizard/Rogue Gestault
Thu 23 Mar 2017
at 21:37
  • msg #30

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"Mettin aid uld ee ice."  She tosses a roll to Wally's and smiles past a mouthful of food.  Somehow she manages to talk with her mouth full and spray any of it across the table.
Wally Glenholme
NPC, 31 posts
Flight Engineer
Thu 23 Mar 2017
at 21:44
  • msg #31

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Wally shakes his head, thoroughly confused by what Shiaran has said, and turns his attention to the roll.
Beloc S'Viscus
player, 101 posts
Wood Elf
Fighter/Druid - Gestault
Fri 24 Mar 2017
at 01:08
  • msg #32

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

For the most part, Beloc remains quite other than exchanging pleasantries. When done eating, he stands and thanks Wally for the company as well as fetching them from the deep abyss. "I wish we had met under better circumstances, but nonetheless, it's been a pleasure."

He turns to Sypher and nods deeply. "Your presence is a strong one. It was an honor fighting beside you."

His gaze falls upon Shiaran, and he does his best to smile sincerely. "Though we may have had a couple differences, you have shown a great deal of quick thinking and tactics. Without that, I doubt we would have gotten out of there as unscathed as we did."

"The last few hours have been interesting, to say the least. Give or take 11 years or so. Now, if you'll excuse me, I need a little fresh air."
Sypher Whiteraven
player, 76 posts
Human
Paladin/Monk - Gestault
Fri 24 Mar 2017
at 01:17
  • msg #33

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Sypher stands in bows.
Shiaran Whiteraven
player, 90 posts
Human
Wizard/Rogue Gestault
Fri 24 Mar 2017
at 01:19
  • msg #34

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Shiaran gives him a cheesy, snide grin and waves her fork at him.
Dungeon Master
GM, 134 posts
Roller of Dice
Giver of Trinkets
Fri 24 Mar 2017
at 01:33
  • msg #35

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Wally politely stands as well when Beloc takes his leave.
Wally Glenholme
NPC, 32 posts
Flight Engineer
Fri 24 Mar 2017
at 02:19
  • msg #36

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Once Beloc is gone, Wally asks "Would you two like to stretch your legs a bit, or are you content with more rest for now?".
Shiaran Whiteraven
player, 91 posts
Human
Wizard/Rogue Gestault
Fri 24 Mar 2017
at 02:32
  • msg #37

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Shiaran swallows, gulps down the last of her drink, then sets the glass down very delicately.  When she speaks it is in a quiet, even voice.  "I would like a shower, and a change of feminine clothes to wear while my 'work suit' is getting professionally cleaned.  Then I want to talk to whomever is in charge and figure out where I fit in this katakrino world eleven years, seven months, and twenty three theos egkataleipo days removed from everything I've ever known."

She glares at Sypher who is about to warn her about language choices.  When she speaks again, there is a cold hatred to her voice that sounds quite dangerous.  "Then I'm going to find those ba'ar aphron who started all this and end them."
Sypher Whiteraven
player, 77 posts
Human
Paladin/Monk - Gestault
Fri 24 Mar 2017
at 02:35
  • msg #38

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Sypher sighs and shakes his head.  He smiles wanly at Wally.  "A quick wash and a change of clothes would be nice.  However, I'd also like a night to meditate if there is time.  For you, more than a decade of nights have passed.  For us, we woke up about ten hours ago to board the Sea Burrow and return home.  I find that I am rather tired after such a long day."  The corner of his mouth quirks into a slight smile.
Wally Glenholme
NPC, 33 posts
Flight Engineer
Fri 24 Mar 2017
at 02:38
  • msg #39

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Wally gulps down the last bite of a roll and responds to Shiaran first, and then includes Sypher. "Well then, I ah.. sure. Sure. Just speak to one of the sentries outside. They're probably under orders to escort you all where ever you go, and can help you find what you need. Though, finding women's clothing on this base might be a bit of a chore. For you Sypher, there's plenty of places to rest".
This message was last edited by the player at 02:40, Fri 24 Mar 2017.
Shiaran Whiteraven
player, 92 posts
Human
Wizard/Rogue Gestault
Fri 24 Mar 2017
at 02:49
  • msg #40

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Shiaran rises and wipes her mouth and hands on the napkin.  She goes over to Wally and gives him a hug.  Then she pulls back and looks into his eyes with sincerity.  "I really am glad you made it, Wally.  Sorry if I took it out on you just now.  I didn't mean to."  She gives him a kiss on the forehead and walks out of the room flirting with the sentry in order to get the kind of clothes she wants and a real bath.
Sypher Whiteraven
player, 78 posts
Human
Paladin/Monk - Gestault
Fri 24 Mar 2017
at 02:52
  • msg #41

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Sypher stands as well.  He walks around the table to Wally and shakes his hand in the more common style of parting.  "Thank you Wally, for coming after us.  Though it would have been a peaceful end, Jehovah has provided an opportunity for further service.  I intend not to let it slip away.  Until tomorrow, my friend."  He bows at the neck then departs, politely requesting where he might wash and rest.
Dungeon Master
GM, 136 posts
Roller of Dice
Giver of Trinkets
Fri 24 Mar 2017
at 10:50
  • msg #42

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Wally gives the both of you a farewell. Outside of the pod room, Shiaran and Sypher find a sentry posted outside of the door, and two more down the hallway. More large glass windows line the side of the hallway. The two of you get a look at a sort of grassy courtyard down below, suggesting you're on the second story. A formation of around a hundred marines stand in neat rows on the grass, with a retinue of officers standing before them. You both see a man that looks like he might be Sylas giving an address, but you can't quite be sure, and you can't hear him through the glass. The skies are blue and clear. Beyond the courtyard are several grey brick buildings that tie directly in to the fortress' high walls. The walls themselves make a sort of angular turn, suggest the fort is some sort of geometric shape.

The marine sentry Shiaran speaks to is more than happy to escort her, informing her that while there aren't any female clothes in this building, the Naval hospital across the way has an almost all female staff of nurses, and that she should be able to find a change and a clean up there.

The sentry Sypher speaks to says he can escort Sypher to the officers quarters, where he can find rest and a wash basin as well.

Both sentries insist on escorting the two to their respective destinations, and both claim "Admiral's orders".

You both go your separate ways with the marines.
Dungeon Master
GM, 137 posts
Roller of Dice
Giver of Trinkets
Sun 26 Mar 2017
at 01:41
  • msg #43

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

~~A Few Hours Later~~

As everyone splits off and one by one make their way to their respective quarters, they find plain rooms waiting for them. A simple cot, wash basin, mirror, and matching dresser and nightstand are all that adorn the rooms. Thankfully, they all have a window at the very least to let natural light in, rather than relying on the crystalline fixtures in the ceiling to provide their dim illumination.

Each of the three finds a simple, typed letter laying on the dresser, with a signature in ink at the bottom.


I'm sorry if the accommodations are drab. They're quite nice by military standards, but I don't expect that's makes it feel any better. I would like to extend to you an invitation to dinner this evening at 1800, as my guests of honor. Please feel free to rummage through the dresser in your room; I've had the marines deliver something a bit more formal than your traveling clothes. Formal attire is optional of course, but since this is a special occasion I didn't want the three of you to feel any more out of place than you might already. If you don't accept my invite, I completely understand given the circumstances. If you accept, please just find one of the sentries, they'll escort you. I do hope to see you there.

  -Sylas T. Glen

  P.S. Please leave any weaponry behind in your room. It will be well guarded from curious eyes and sticky fingers. I promise there wont be any fights or brawls breaking out over dinner.


Contained within Sypher and Beloc's dressers are formal looking coats, shirts, slacks and shoes. The shirts are white and have bow ties sewn in to them with locking hasps hidden behind the bow.

Shiaran's contains a modest black dress that runs down to the calves, and has a slit up the sides that runs to just above the knee. A pair of black heels sit neatly next to the dress.
Shiaran Whiteraven
player, 93 posts
Human
Wizard/Rogue Gestault
Sun 26 Mar 2017
at 02:11
  • msg #44

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Shiaran frowns at the black.  She sends a sentry off for a tailoring kit and makes a few modifications.  The slit in the dress rises a couple more inches.  A few other modifications meant to distract the men follow.  She grimaced at the heels and checks her boots for gore.  A quick clean and they once again fit comfortably on her feet.  Two hidden mini-daggers still in place.

Satisfied with her hair, which is straight down and brushed well (not that she can do much else anyway), she looks for her bag with the makeup before remembering it was left on the Sea Burrow.

Completely unsatisfied, she heads to dinner.
Sypher Whiteraven
player, 79 posts
Human
Paladin/Monk - Gestault
Sun 26 Mar 2017
at 02:24
  • msg #45

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Sypher reads the letter and sets it aside.  Then he takes the wash basin and calmly cleans his clothes until only a hint of stains remain.  Those he lays aside to dry.

He takes a small, well-worn brown book that he always carries inside his left breast pocket.  The pocket is water resistant and sealable.  He reads for an hour, then runs through some katas to recenter his Chay.

As the time for dinner approaches, he checks his clothing and finds it dry enough to wear.  He glances at the First Blade, but trusting in Jehovah more than his hosts, he leaves it where it rests - a place of honor in the relatively lavish room.

He finds a sentry and requests escort to dinner.
Beloc S'Viscus
player, 102 posts
Wood Elf
Fighter/Druid - Gestault
Sun 26 Mar 2017
at 03:07
  • msg #46

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

From behind closed doors, not much is heard from Beloc. He props his shield up against the wall near the cot and rests his blade next to it. The wooden plates, that cover him nearly head to toe, have been a fixture for so long that they feel more like a second skin these days. However, given the situation, he takes the time to "dismantle" it for the dinner.

Without his armor, the standard issue greys to prevent chafing would likely be more embarrassing than wearing the formal attire of humans. So, reluctantly he cleans himself up and tries on the shirt and slacks. They fit a bit loose for his slim elven frame, but with the formal coat, it doesn't look terrible by human standards.

Despite having a sewn in bow tie, Beloc affixes a simple looking wooden amulet around his next and opens the door leaving his room. He nods to the guard standing in the hall. "If you would kindly show me to the dining hall."
Dungeon Master
GM, 138 posts
Roller of Dice
Giver of Trinkets
Mon 27 Mar 2017
at 01:57
  • msg #47

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

The three are individually escorted to the dining facilities. It isn't hard to distinguish the officer's dining area from the enlisted. Because space isn't a luxury on board the base, the entrance for the officers dining is a narrow hallway with a half wall divider that runs along the side of the enlisted dining area. Just enough to be separate, but low enough that anyone passing through would be in plain view of the troops having their evening meals. Rows of simple cafeteria style tables with long benches sit crammed on top of one another, with barely enough space from bench to bench to act as walking paths for finding a seat.

The only one of the three that draws any attention of course is Shiaran. No one cat calls or jeers, but eyes dart to and remain glued on her until she passes behind a partition that forms a short ten foot hallway to a set of double doors..

The marines leave each of you at the entrance to wait for one another, though you all manage to show up within a minute or so each. The three of you now stand at a pair of double doors, which have square windows in the center of each door. The marines take their leave, informing you all that they'll be grabbing a bite, and will be available for escort back to the rooms outside of the chow hall once dinner is over. The marine Beloc was escorted by adds not to worry about taking too long, they're used to "hurry up and wait" scenarios.

The officers "mess" as it's referred to is a semi-formal looking area with actual tables and chairs. White table cloths with small lanterns in the center adorn the tables. White china and polished silverware sit atop neatly presses white cloth napkins in each place. In total there are around 14 tables tightly packed in to the room. There is a semi-circular stage in the far right corner from the entrance of the room. It sits around a foot high, and has a 4 man string quartet softly playing. Each man wears a Royal Marine uniform. The song they play adds a nice background noise to the low murmur of the room, but isn't anything fancy. Several rows of polished and square cut white crystals give additional soft light from the ceiling. Enlisted waiters bring out silver trays of food one table at a time, exiting from two side doors that look like they might converge into a kitchen area that goes behind the enlisted mess as well.

Next to the stage and spanning lengthwise with the wall is a table larger than the others. It has the same decor and motif as the rest. The seat in the center is occupied by an older looking gentleman with thick grey sideburns and eyebrows. Next to him, sits Sylas. There are three chairs to Sylas' side that are empty. Three more sit on the side of the older gentleman, all occupied. A short fat man with balding pate, a blonde woman who looks very plain, and a gentleman with jet black hair, and a clean shaven face. All of them, including Sylas, wear cleaned and pressed naval officer's uniforms.

The rest of the tables in the room are mostly occupied, with space here and there.

Sylas isn't looking in the direction of the door right now, and instead seems to be speaking to the older officer.
Shiaran Whiteraven
player, 94 posts
Human
Wizard/Rogue Gestault
Mon 27 Mar 2017
at 02:28
  • msg #48

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Shiaran drinks in the attention she knows she commands.  A few of the middle of the road sailors - not intolerable, but not drop dead gorgeous either - she winks at.

Once in the officers' mess, Shiaran sees the seating arrangement.  She makes a point to reach the high table first, ignoring all those sitting at the lower tables.  Once there, she arranges herself in the chair farthest from Sylas.
Sypher Whiteraven
player, 80 posts
Human
Paladin/Monk - Gestault
Mon 27 Mar 2017
at 02:29
  • msg #49

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Sypher takes note of the details of his surroundings, paying attention to what while Shiaran concentrates on who.  In the officers' mess, he takes the second seat from the end next to Shiaran.
Beloc S'Viscus
player, 103 posts
Wood Elf
Fighter/Druid - Gestault
Mon 27 Mar 2017
at 13:00
  • msg #50

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Beloc stiffens up a bit after seeing the size and formality of the event. A little uncomfortable, he tugs at his clothes and walks into the room. He spots another, single wood elf on the other side of the room and nods sheepishly.

He walks up to the head table and bows. Oddly enough, the amulet that dangles around his neck remains close against his body, as if defying gravity when he bows. He takes the last open seat next to Sylas.
Sylas Glen
NPC, 29 posts
Admiral
Fildegarian Navy
Mon 27 Mar 2017
at 17:11
  • msg #51

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

At first glance the table seemed straight across from the other side of the room. As the three of you get to it though, you all notice is has a slight curve to it, making sideways conversations more feasible.

As you take your respective seats, Sylas gives you a warm smile. He looks genuinely pleased that everyone has decided to attend dinner. The rest of the table also looks pleased, giving nods and smiles of their own.

"Lady, gentlemen, I'd like to introduce you to Grand Admiral Driggs" he says, referring to the elderly gentleman to his left. "He's the commanding officer of the entire Fildegarian Royal Navy. Next we have Lieutenant Commander Haskell, Captain Amithra, and Commander Brask. Everyone here is quite excited to meet you".
Shiaran Whiteraven
player, 95 posts
Human
Wizard/Rogue Gestault
Mon 27 Mar 2017
at 17:28
  • msg #52

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Shiaran ignores the bigwigs and flags down a server.  "Are they serving sea food?  If so, I want crustacean, shelled, buttered, and salted.  I'll also have milk - cow not goat."
Sypher Whiteraven
player, 81 posts
Human
Paladin/Monk - Gestault
Mon 27 Mar 2017
at 17:28
  • msg #53

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Sypher sighs heavily, smiles at the admiralty, and bows his head slightly in acknowledgement and greeting.
Sylas Glen
NPC, 30 posts
Admiral
Fildegarian Navy
Mon 27 Mar 2017
at 18:42
  • msg #54

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

The server is caught off guard by Shiaran's request. He glances over at Sylas a brief moment, clearly confused by the request and if he's able to make it.

"You heard the lady, hop to it".

"Aye sir" he quickly manages. He looks at Sypher and Beloc. "Tonight were serving pheasant, with a tossed salad and a steamed greens mix for the entrée. Does this sound ok for you gentlemen, or should I put in something special for you as well?".
Sypher Whiteraven
player, 82 posts
Human
Paladin/Monk - Gestault
Mon 27 Mar 2017
at 20:54
  • msg #55

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Sypher frowns at Shiaran the gives the server a neutral look.  "It sounds delicious.  Thank you."
Beloc S'Viscus
player, 104 posts
Wood Elf
Fighter/Druid - Gestault
Mon 27 Mar 2017
at 22:17
  • msg #56

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Beloc smiles and nods. "That sounds fine. Thank you."
Dungeon Master
GM, 139 posts
Roller of Dice
Giver of Trinkets
Mon 27 Mar 2017
at 23:06
  • msg #57

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

As the waiter takes Beloc's order, Sylas instructs him to ensure the trio's orders are moved to the top of the queue. The waiter responds with another "Aye, sir" and hurries off.

Grand Admiral Driggs leans forward to get a better look at the three of you.

"So tell me, how is it you all found yourselves in the company of the notorious Oro and Gazra?".

It suddenly occurs to you that they haven't seen either of the two since they were thawed.
Beloc S'Viscus
player, 105 posts
Wood Elf
Fighter/Druid - Gestault
Mon 27 Mar 2017
at 23:20
  • msg #58

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"Notorious? I wasn't aware they had a reputation." He puts his utensils down while speaking. "It was all chance really. We just happen to all be aboard the airship when Sylas here decided to pay a visit."

"I noticed their pods were recovered, but empty. Are they still on base?"
Grand Admiral Driggs
NPC, 1 post
Human
Naval Officer
Tue 28 Mar 2017
at 00:38
  • msg #59

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"No, they've been moved for their own safety. And I don't call them notorious as a means to say that they've done anything wrong. They have quite the history in Fildegarne actually. When Admiral Glen here was just a young ensign, ah, that's the lowest of the officer ranks mind you, he was Gazra's commanding officer. And Oro, he once held the title of The King's Heel. I suppose that's what landed him, and us all, in this mess really. Dove too deep down the badger's hole, and the badger came up fighting. No one blames him though, but he thinks it. The man was merely doing the job he was sworn to do, much like Glen here with his deep cover espionage".

The Grand Admiral pauses to take a drink of water.
Beloc S'Viscus
player, 106 posts
Wood Elf
Fighter/Druid - Gestault
Tue 28 Mar 2017
at 13:22
  • msg #60

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Beloc shrugs. "I can't say that I knew them very well. Although, it was quite clear that Gazra was willing to risk everything to get Oro back." He thinks quietly to himself for a moment. "If Sylas was his C.O. then I guess that explains some of the animosity. I guess the history there wasn't evident."
This message was last edited by the player at 13:31, Tue 28 Mar 2017.
Sylas Glen
NPC, 31 posts
Admiral
Fildegarian Navy
Tue 28 Mar 2017
at 13:30
  • msg #61

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"He did, though our history of bad blood under false pretense was a given for him. I am curious as to what all the pair revealed to you three. But that conversation can wait until after dinner and we're in a more private setting".
Grand Admiral Driggs
NPC, 2 posts
Human
Naval Officer
Wed 29 Mar 2017
at 00:35
  • msg #62

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Driggs nods in agreement with Sylas. "I'm also quite curious as to what your respective plans are now? I understand though that the hour is early since you've come out of your sleep, and that you may not have had the proper time to assess your unique situations. Fildegarne is quite different now from a decade ago, though I'm sure you don't need an old man in a uniform to tell you that much".
Shiaran Whiteraven
player, 96 posts
Human
Wizard/Rogue Gestault
Wed 29 Mar 2017
at 01:04
  • msg #63

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Shiaran eats her food with gusts, but not without some decorum.  She listens, but the conversation is between that arrogant elf and the brass, so she keeps quiet.

Sypher seems to be doing the same, eating his meal - polite as always - and listening.  If he volunteered them or said anything else stupid, she'd be ready to speak up and stop him.
Beloc S'Viscus
player, 107 posts
Wood Elf
Fighter/Druid - Gestault
Wed 29 Mar 2017
at 02:51
  • msg #64

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"Honestly, other than a few mentions here and there of war, I have no clue what's happened over the past decade. I guessing the people I knew, just a few days ago to me, assume I'm dead. The details leading up to and surrounding our 'nap' are spotty at best. It's a lot to take in, so naturally, I have no idea what my future looks like."

He stops to take a breath only to notice most of the people in ear shot just staring at him. Perhaps because it's the most verbose anyone has witnessed until now, or because it's disrupted the pleasantries of late. Either way, he looks down at his food. "Sorry, I didn't mean to vent out loud like that."
Shiaran Whiteraven
player, 97 posts
Human
Wizard/Rogue Gestault
Wed 29 Mar 2017
at 04:02
  • msg #65

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"It's understandable.  You did just lose your dog and all."  Shiaran's words are flippant, meant to hurt.
This message was last edited by the player at 04:03, Wed 29 Mar 2017.
Sypher Whiteraven
player, 83 posts
Human
Paladin/Monk - Gestault
Wed 29 Mar 2017
at 04:05
  • msg #66

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Sypher faces Shiaran.  His voice is low and firm, but without threat.  "Enough, Shiaran.  Do not inflict you own pain on others.  That only makes you both hurt."
Shiaran Whiteraven
player, 98 posts
Human
Wizard/Rogue Gestault
Wed 29 Mar 2017
at 04:10
  • msg #67

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Shiaran slams her fork down on her plate.  She wipes her mouth, stands, and the throws her napkin down.  "STOP TELLING ME WHAT TO DO!"

Then she clenched her fists at her side, closes her eyes, and turns away.  She opens then again looking for a server.  "May I please have this to go?  Seconds, too, if it's not to much trouble."  Her voice is navigation under control, soft and sweet without the usual sultrin essence when she is trying to manipulate.  She does not wait for an answer but instead flees the room at a fast walk headed for her own quarters.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:00, Wed 25 Apr 2018.
Beloc S'Viscus
player, 108 posts
Wood Elf
Fighter/Druid - Gestault
Wed 29 Mar 2017
at 04:45
  • msg #68

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Beloc, on the verge of spitting out some ugly retort, bites his tongue and watches her storm out.

"I seem to have lost my appetite." He looks to the others. "If you'll excuse me."
Dungeon Master
GM, 140 posts
Roller of Dice
Giver of Trinkets
Wed 29 Mar 2017
at 10:52
  • msg #69

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

As Shiaran and Beloc stand up to leave, the entire table stands up, as a courtesy. Once they're gone and Sypher is the only one left, Sylas looks over at him. "Well, that went well, wouldn't you say?" he muses.

Grand Admiral Driggs chimes in. "It's perfectly understandable, Sylas. Through no real fault of their own, they've managed to become wrapped in the mother of all messes. Anyone in this room would have reacted the same way in the given situation. They couldn't have accounted for you, and you couldn't have accounted for them 11 years ago. The entire situation is regrettable, on behalf of the Navy, and on a personal level".

Driggs looks at Sypher. "And on that personal level, I'd like you to know that I accept full responsibility for the entire operation. I doubt Glen here has told you, but I do have a course of action in mind to help you with your current situation".
Sypher Whiteraven
player, 84 posts
Human
Paladin/Monk - Gestault
Wed 29 Mar 2017
at 11:01
  • msg #70

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"Admiral, I am a scion of House Whiteraven and more importantly a servant of Iehovah God.  I go where I am needed.  Shiaran is...well, she's not mad because she lost anything.  She's mad because she wasn't in control of the situation.  It controlled her.  The world is always a dark place, and it sounds as if it has become darker still.  I exist, wholly dedicated to bringing the Lord's light into that darkness.  Shiaran, for her part, is the same way.  She can be a petulant, arrogant brat sometimes, but that's mostly her youth speaking.  I think you will find that, given a few days, she will be fully on board and probably trying to take over whatever operation you have in store for us."  He smiles slightly at the last bit.

"Let me assure you, we will serve the people of Fildegarne and of Abeir-Toril.  There is no more need for apology.  Instead, if you please, I would like to move on to the details."  Sypher grows silent, content to listen.  He is unused to that amount of speaking and it seems to exhaust him a little, if not physically, then mentally.  He takes a bite of his food and sits back in his chair.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:01, Wed 25 Apr 2018.
Grand Admiral Driggs
NPC, 3 posts
Human
Naval Officer
Wed 29 Mar 2017
at 12:13
  • msg #71

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

The Admirals and three officers at the table listen intently, nodding as Sypher speaks. When he is done, Admiral Driggs speaks. "Would you mind accompanying Admiral Glen and me? We have a proposition to discuss with you, but the nature of the matter is sensitive".
Sypher Whiteraven
player, 85 posts
Human
Paladin/Monk - Gestault
Wed 29 Mar 2017
at 12:43
  • msg #72

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Sypher puts down his utensils, wipes his face and stands.  "Certainly, Admiral."
Dungeon Master
GM, 141 posts
Roller of Dice
Giver of Trinkets
Wed 29 Mar 2017
at 20:32
  • msg #73

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Grand Admiral Driggs looks over at one of the Royal Marines playing a violin. He makes eye contact with him and nods, then beckons Sypher to follow him.

He leads Sypher and Sylas out of the dining hall. As he exits the marine nearest the door snaps to attention and loudly calls out "Attention on deck!". Everyone in the room including the band stops what they're doing, pops tall, and stands at attention. Driggs waves an arm and bellows "Carry on!" as he passes through the threshold of the door. The soft murmurs of the room start back up as the doors swing closed, but the music does not.

Outside of the dining hall the remaining marine escort snaps to attention and renders a salute, which is returned by Driggs and Sylas. "Come with us" says Driggs. "Aye, sir!" barks the marine, dropping his salute once the Admirals drop their own.

Sypher is lead further across the center courtyard of the base, and back to the building where the pods were located. On the bottom floor, more marines stand guard, and much of the same saluting ritual is performed as the entourage passes deeper in to the building. They enter in to a room with the words "CO's Conference Room" posted on the door. As they walk in hurried footsteps can be heard behind the three.

The marine musician that Driggs nodded to follows them in to the room, still carrying his violin.

Driggs nods to him again and says "You know what to do". The marine clasps his hands together and mutters a few words. A brief light blue aura forms around him and then expands, casting the walls in a pale blue light before dispersing.

"The room is secure and silent, Admiral. By your leave".

"As you were" says Driggs. The marine promptly exits the room, shutting the door behind him. The marine who has been escorting Sypher also waits outside of the room. Without being told, he understands he is to guard the door.

Driggs looks Sypher in the eye next. His tone and expression are stern, but not menacing."Tell me, how much of Gazra and Oro's story do you know? Please, the full of it. You aren't in any sort of trouble, but knowing what you've been told is a great matter of importance".
This message was last edited by the GM at 20:39, Wed 29 Mar 2017.
Sypher Whiteraven
player, 86 posts
Human
Paladin/Monk - Gestault
Wed 29 Mar 2017
at 20:53
  • msg #74

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Not being offered a seat, Sypher rubs his chin and leans against a wall. "Things were happening fast and we weren't always together.  I remember something about them having a past conflict with the witch.  She took there power?  Their life force somehow?"  He shakes his head trying to remember.  "Shiaran has a better head for details."
Sylas Glen
NPC, 32 posts
Admiral
Fildegarian Navy
Wed 29 Mar 2017
at 23:02
  • msg #75

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"Did they tell you about what they stole?".
Grand Admiral Driggs
NPC, 4 posts
Human
Naval Officer
Wed 29 Mar 2017
at 23:14
  • msg #76

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

As Sypher speaks and Sylas questions, the Grand Admiral moves over to a dark cherry wood cabinet with bottles of various rums, whiskeys, and more sitting on top. He produces three glasses and begins to pour, just enough to to coat the bottoms of the glasses about a fifth of the way full.

"Slow yourself Sylas, this isn't an interrogation. We simply want to know how much of what we already know has been passed along. I'm sure this young man has more than figured out by now that the deeds of Oro and company are more than significant, and in a broad variety of ways ".
Sypher Whiteraven
player, 87 posts
Human
Paladin/Monk - Gestault
Wed 29 Mar 2017
at 23:17
  • msg #77

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Sypher shakes his head apologetically.  "I'm sorry, Admiral.  If they did, it did not stick.  It would not have been pertinent to the immediate events."

When offered a glass, Sypher declines.
Grand Admiral Driggs
NPC, 5 posts
Human
Naval Officer
Thu 30 Mar 2017
at 10:40
  • msg #78

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Driggs takes a sip from his glass. "Oro holds one of the many keys to putting an end to this war, and driving the Bleeding Palm and their Calamite cronies out of our lands for good. The problem is, is that he isn't willing to share this information with us. But that's not entirely what I wanted to discuss with you. Have you ever heard the "Vitia Exspiravit"?".
Sypher Whiteraven
player, 88 posts
Human
Paladin/Monk - Gestault
Thu 30 Mar 2017
at 11:12
  • msg #79

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"The Crime of Death?  I can't say that I have heard any thing called that in the proper form as you are using it."
Sylas Glen
NPC, 33 posts
Admiral
Fildegarian Navy
Thu 30 Mar 2017
at 11:42
  • msg #80

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"Well, yes and no. The phrase is a bastardization of "Ley Lineum Spectris", or "Spectral Laylines" in our tongue. They're areas of heavy paranormal activity. We don't know why, but the spirits of the lost seem to congregate at these sites... and the necromancers of the Bleeding Palm along with their allies know this. Fildegarne is laced with these sites. Eight that we know of, and an estimated four to five more that we don't. Through these wells of ethereal-like power, our spies have reported that the Palm has been using these spirits to infuse the dead they create. This has resulted is smarter, stronger, and faster than overage results. Our latest reports show though, that they've perfected their technique. The spirits won't be grabbed at random, instead they'll be able to cherry pick. Pluck their greatest warriors from the void again, and again, and again. I'm sure you can see where this creates a massive problem for us all".
Sypher Whiteraven
player, 89 posts
Human
Paladin/Monk - Gestault
Thu 30 Mar 2017
at 11:53
  • msg #81

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Sypher nods, but does not speak.  He wishes Shiaran had her head on right so she could hear this.  This was something beyond his training, beyond him.  Nevertheless, he was here and she was not.
Grand Admiral Driggs
NPC, 6 posts
Human
Naval Officer
Thu 30 Mar 2017
at 23:12
  • msg #82

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"It's going to take some organizing, but we're putting together a team. Armed with the knowledge of the Argonette Regiment, we want to provide a small clandestine element to our operative who has been detached from said regiment, to accompany him to those sites we know of. And there, he'll perform the necessary ritual to seal off the faults in the laylines. We're pressed for time. Our scouts on the forward line tell us that the enemy is starting to amass. Historically we've seen a surge forward out of them, where they push deeper into ground we currently hold".

Driggs drains his glass to the bottom, and sets it down hard. He winces slightly, suggesting he didn't quite mean to.

"I don't know you from a Luskan grocery boy, but Sylas vouches for you. He seems to be under the impression that you're more than cut out for the job. The woman and elf too. We're prepared to give them the same offer we're extending to you. A job with a monthly allowance. Access to any tools for the job you may need. And all the danger you can eat and undead you can cleave through. You'll be considered an official member of the Fildegarian Royal Navy, and draw the rank and pay of a Lieutenant. You'll be under modified conditions of course. No uniform to wear around, no one to salute, or anything like that. Everyone on the team will appear to be civilians, for the security of the mission". Driggs pauses to gauge Sypher's reaction and body language so far. "You'll also receive a years worth of back pay for your new position, up front. Consider that a token of my apology for the Widow incident".

[DM's Note: Lieutenant in the Navy is an 0-3, the 3rd (lower end, not higher) of 9 ranks of officer. Sylas (an Admiral) is an 0-9. Driggs is an 0-10 technically, and isn't commonly listed due to his position being one of a kind at all times]
Sypher Whiteraven
player, 90 posts
Human
Paladin/Monk - Gestault
Thu 30 Mar 2017
at 23:32
  • msg #83

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Sypher digests the information and doesn't speak for a few seconds.  Then he nods.  "As I've already said, Shiaran and I are on board.  She is a skilled wizard and will want access to a spell library and gear.  I will see what you have that I might use in the equipment department as well."
Dungeon Master
GM, 142 posts
Roller of Dice
Giver of Trinkets
Thu 30 Mar 2017
at 23:58
  • msg #84

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

A sharp wrap knocks on the door. Three times, evenly spaced out. It repeats this pattern twice.

Sylas holds up a finger, "Excuse me Sypher". He moves over to the door and cracks it enough to stick his head out of it. He then opens it and Beloc  steps in, with the Marine bard standing behind him.

"Well, this just got a little easier to manage"

The bard remains out of the room and shuts the door behind Beloc.
This message was last edited by the GM at 00:00, Fri 31 Mar 2017.
Beloc S'Viscus
player, 109 posts
Wood Elf
Fighter/Druid - Gestault
Fri 31 Mar 2017
at 00:13
  • msg #85

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

He smiles softly. "I was out, blowing off a little steam, and saw the lot of you come this way. Thought I might apologize for my abrupt departure earlier."
Sylas Glen
NPC, 34 posts
Admiral
Fildegarian Navy
Fri 31 Mar 2017
at 00:16
  • msg #86

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"Nothing to apologize for, Beloc. It's only natural for tensions to run a little high, considering all that's happened. Now then, let me get you up to speed".

Sylas recaps Beloc on the details and offers that were extended to Sypher, and by proxy, Shiaran.
Beloc S'Viscus
player, 110 posts
Wood Elf
Fighter/Druid - Gestault
Fri 31 Mar 2017
at 00:23
  • msg #87

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Beloc nods. "That's quite a proposal, but first, I have a couple questions."

He looks over to Sylas. "When we first boarded the Widow, we found Oro severely beaten to the point he could barely carry himself. Can you tell me who was responsible for that?" Next, he looks to the rest of the officers. "I noticed Oro and Gazra's pods were recovered, yet we haven't seen neither hide nor hair of them. Where have they disappeared to?"
This message was last edited by the player at 00:50, Fri 31 Mar 2017.
Sylas Glen
NPC, 35 posts
Admiral
Fildegarian Navy
Fri 31 Mar 2017
at 00:36
  • msg #88

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Sylas turn's somber. "I take full responsibility for Oro's condition. I took absolutely no pleasure in the act, but I needed two things to happen. Oro was snatched up by one of the gargoyles, as part of my plan. However, true to his nature, he's a fighter. Not all of that blood you saw on the floor was his. He took down four acolytes before the heavies and Ruprict subdued him. The second portion, is that on my return to the Widow, everything had to seamlessly flow as it normally would. I did rough him up some, but only in show. Truth is he was pretty well deflated by the time I got there, but even in his state he managed to stand to try and face me anyway. It would have been completely out of the character of Sylas Be'al to allow insolence from a prisoner. And with Ruprict acting as Gheevorah's eyes, well, that wouldn't have went well for me getting Oro out of there if I was discovered too early. To answer your other question, Oro and Gazra are safe. They've been transferred to a discrete location, where they'll receive medical care and have a chat with some brass that's a decade overdue. I know they won't tell everything they know, it's just how they are, but there are still things we can learn from them that will help up all. Rest assured that above all, like you and your present company, Oro and Gazra aren't prisoners".
Beloc S'Viscus
player, 111 posts
Wood Elf
Fighter/Druid - Gestault
Fri 31 Mar 2017
at 00:53
  • msg #89

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"So, Oro and Gazra believed you to be a turncoat and weren't aware that you were eight years deep in a undercover operation?"
Sylas Glen
NPC, 36 posts
Admiral
Fildegarian Navy
Fri 31 Mar 2017
at 01:38
  • msg #90

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"That is correct. The unfortunate nature of the position I found myself in was that I couldn't afford friends like that. All in all, I did more to sabotage the Bleeding Palm than help them. Little did those two know, on numerous times I was the one who left bread crumb trails to follow. On the day Gheevorah lured them in to her trap, what they didn't tell you, what they couldn't have known, is that the trap was supposed to kill them. I may have managed to smudge a few lines of the spell circle before I ran out of time. I knew what they were there to steal. I in my own way made sure they found out".
Beloc S'Viscus
player, 112 posts
Wood Elf
Fighter/Druid - Gestault
Fri 31 Mar 2017
at 13:28
  • msg #91

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Beloc takes a moment to absorb what Sylas has said and then nods quietly. "I believe you."

He looks over to Sypher and Sylas. "Who else is expected to be a part of this team?"
Sypher Whiteraven
player, 301 posts
Human
Paladin/Monk - Gestault
Wed 25 Apr 2018
at 16:03
  • msg #92

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"Shiaran."
This message was last updated by the player at 16:03, Wed 25 Apr 2018.
Dungeon Master
GM, 143 posts
Roller of Dice
Giver of Trinkets
Fri 31 Mar 2017
at 21:50
  • msg #93

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Everyone else in the room whips their heads over towards the door. It's standing wide open. The Marine bard wears a goofy grin on his face. "Admirals, gentlemen, this is my friend Shiaran. I believe you wanted to see her".

Sylas looks at the marine, his bushy mustache twitching. It isn't clear if he's trying not to laugh, or trying not to explode.

"Well then, come on in. We wanted to speak with you as well, but I suppose secret meeting rooms don't fair well against talented and "charming" magi, do they?".
Shiaran Whiteraven
player, 100 posts
Human
Wizard/Rogue Gestault
Fri 31 Mar 2017
at 21:54
  • msg #94

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Shiaran wears her leathers again and is geared up in everything but visible weapons.  She ignores Sylas and goes over to Beloc.  After a brief pause, she puts her palms together and bows low.  "My words to you at dinner were cruel and unprovoked.  You have my sincerest apologies."
Beloc S'Viscus
player, 113 posts
Wood Elf
Fighter/Druid - Gestault
Sat 1 Apr 2017
at 03:17
  • msg #95

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

A range of expressions cross Beloc's face as Shiaran enters the room and speaks. From a grimace of displeasure, to unexpected curiosity, to finally one of acceptance. "It takes a person of substance to say something like that. Thank you."
Shiaran Whiteraven
player, 101 posts
Human
Wizard/Rogue Gestault
Sat 1 Apr 2017
at 04:24
  • msg #96

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

With the apology accepted, she stands upright again and turns to the Admiral.  "Alright chief.  What's the plan to take out that witch?"
Kallium Cairn
NPC, 1 post
Wood Elf
Sun 2 Apr 2017
at 00:20
  • msg #97

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"We travel to the foot hills of the Shattered Top mountain range, on the Western edge of the Argonette Forest, where a Spectral Fault is suspected to be. From there, I will close it, shutting down yet another potential source of our enemy's power".

The wood elf Beloc spoke with earlier now stands in the door, let in by the still charmed marine. He gives a quick salute to the admirals as he enters. Sylas' mustache quivers again. This time a smirk underneath it.

"Ah, Beloc. I had hoped you to be a part of this. Sorry for the cloak and dagger routine earlier. Protocol is protocol though. And who might these fine looking humans be? The.. younger of the four, of course".
Beloc S'Viscus
player, 114 posts
Wood Elf
Fighter/Druid - Gestault
Mon 3 Apr 2017
at 13:07
  • msg #98

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Beloc smiles and nods. "Major. No need to apologize. Information like that is best kept close to the vest."
Sypher Whiteraven
player, 91 posts
Human
Paladin/Monk - Gestault
Mon 3 Apr 2017
at 14:14
  • msg #99

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Sypher gives the newcomer a slight bow.  "I am Sypherion Whiteraven.  Monk of the Order of Rei, Paladin and follower of Iehova God.  Most just call me Sypher."
Shiaran Whiteraven
player, 102 posts
Human
Wizard/Rogue Gestault
Mon 3 Apr 2017
at 14:19
  • msg #100

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Shiaran looks the newcomer over and her lips purse in a pout.  She strides confidently over to the major and holds out a hand to shake.  "Shiaran.  Pleasure to meet you."  She gives him her second best smile.  Her voice is feminine, but confident and not filled with the usual coyness she uses on her cast-offs.
Dungeon Master
GM, 146 posts
Roller of Dice
Giver of Trinkets
Tue 4 Apr 2017
at 10:58
  • msg #101

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Kallium shakes Shiaran's hand. "Pleased to meet you as well" he says cheerfully.

Sylas and Driggs speak amongst themselves while Kallium has his meet and greet with everyone.

Once all the formalities are through, Driggs speaks up. "If everyone will excuse me, I have some other matters to attend. Sylas here will be in charge of this operation as a point of contact, and will be available for questions and supply requisition come morning time. I'd like to thank each of you for your intended service, for your time, and for your willingness to put your lives on the line for our great country and her people. It takes an iron stomach and mithril back bone to be willing to step up in to this mess. Were I a younger man I'd be chomping at the bit to come along".
Beloc S'Viscus
player, 115 posts
Wood Elf
Fighter/Druid - Gestault
Tue 4 Apr 2017
at 14:07
  • msg #102

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"Now that we're all friends, let's talk about what we're up against, shall we?"
Kallium Cairn
NPC, 2 posts
Wood Elf
Wed 5 Apr 2017
at 01:17
  • msg #103

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Driggs exits the room

Kallium addresses Beloc's inquiry. "Yes. I don't know if you were told yet, but you are currently situated in the south eastern region of Fildegarne. To our north is your and my homeland, the Argonette Forest. Between us and there are small pockets of Bleeding Palm irregulars. The mobile and mechanized infantry units of the Fildegarian Army have most of them pinned down. The unfortunate draw back is that they themselves are also at an impasse. Networks of trenches on either side, and our artillery munitions running low are the primary cause of that. There are routes through of course, and we'll be taking one. It isn't without its share of risk, but we should manage. The primary objective of our team is to locate and seal off the Spectral Faults; that much you already know. Your individual jobs will vary, depending on our situation. First and foremost, help me stay alive. I am capable of teaching others how to close the faults, but the magics that must be weaved are complex. The time for tutelage isn't on our side at this point, because as you also may have heard, our front line scouts are showing numerous locations where the PCA are gathering en masse. They mean to make one final push, and if they succeed, they'll have reduced our held territories down to a mere twenty-five percent of the country, with many of us being drove to the seas and cornered. What we do have in our favor, is that the enemy knows they can't get by on mortal troops alone. The undead have been the backbone of their armies for the past decade, and they need the Spectral Faults to maintain that endless supply of troops. What's more, when we closed the fault in thr Argonette, not only did we cap off one of their supplies... something else happened. Those stolen souls, it was almost as if the tethers anchoring them to the husks they were bound to were broken. Scores and scores of undead simply ceased to function. The stronger ones were reduced down to their more basic forms, but the likes of the common troops dropped where they stood".

Kallium pauses for a moment and takes a drink from his canteen.

"Our first target, is the capitol. Fildegarne Walled City. It's been a bastion of hope for our forces since the start of this. About three weeks ago, we lost contact. What we did glean from the reports coming out of the city indicated a likely Spectral Fault. Provided that the city hasn't been breached, we'll be in luck. If Fildegarne should fall though, our monarch and royal family goes with it. It will be one of the biggest black eyes they PCA can give us. Furthermore, it gives them an incredibly fortified base of operations to rebuild and re-center their armies. I suppose it goes without saying just how much we can't have any of that. That is why I need the three of you. Our hold in the Argonette Forest connects to lands held by savages. The only good thing about this war for us elves is that it put a hold on the "aggressions" the Firewyrm Clan and the Canopy Shapers were having. The barbarian tribes hold no true allegiance to the crown, as they're allowed to self govern, but they're wise enough to understand the enemy of their enemy is their friend.  Should they let us pass through their lands, we'll be at the eastern foot hills of the Shattered Top mountain range. From there we can choose to go over the mountains, or beneath them. We haven't had contact with the dwarves under the mountain in around four years if I'm recalling correctly, so I can't say for certain if they are alive and well hunkering in their holes, or if they managed to seal themselves into a tomb. We'll have to make that decision when we get there. Getting in to the actual city of Fildegarne will be a task of its own, but we cannot cross that bridge until we get to it. Now then, I'm sure you're all brimming with questions, fire away".
Shiaran Whiteraven
player, 104 posts
Human
Wizard/Rogue Gestault
Wed 5 Apr 2017
at 01:32
  • msg #104

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"Why us?"  Shiaran's question is casual, but below the surface there is a cauldron of suspicion and something more.  She leans back in the comfortable meeting chair at the head of the table and examines her fingernails as if the answer to the question is trivial, a mere curiosity.  "Sypher and I are barely out of the monastery.  We were back from our first major trip to the main continent.  While there we heard stories of great heroes, powerful men and women, and even met one.  Has word not been sent to them?  Surely this threat would affect them eventually and they would see that cutting off the Bloody Noses now would save them even more effort in the future.  I don't now about Beloc's skill - that tree her wears is certainly powerful - but if I were Academy trained, I'd barely have graduated from my apprenticeship."

She looks up, leans forward with her elbows on the table, hands folded in front of her face under her chin.  "So.  Why us?  Are you so desperate for champions here in Fildegarne that you rob the hero cradle?"
Sypher Whiteraven
player, 92 posts
Human
Paladin/Monk - Gestault
Wed 5 Apr 2017
at 01:33
  • msg #105

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"Shiaran."  There is warning in Sypher's tone, a firm 'back off'.  "I have already volunteered to help however I may."
Shiaran Whiteraven
player, 105 posts
Human
Wizard/Rogue Gestault
Wed 5 Apr 2017
at 01:37
  • msg #106

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Shiaran raises and eyebrow at Sypher.  "Of course you did brother.  The eternal champion and martyr for Iehova and the forces of good with no thought to the costs and consequences."  She shakes her head and folds her arms flat on the table.  "Look, I'm not saying I won't go, but this situation sounds waaaay above our pay grade.  I don't want to be bait or cannon fodder in some misdirection while the real action is elsewhere.  I just want to know what I'm getting into, all cards on the table."  Her look goes from nonchalant to deadly.  "And if you're lying, you'll be lucky if I just am not there one morning."
Sylas Glen
NPC, 37 posts
Admiral
Fildegarian Navy
Wed 5 Apr 2017
at 01:59
  • msg #107

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Sylas takes a seat directly across from Shiaran. "You want me to validate choosing you? Fine. We don't have some heroes emporium that we can just send a carrier pigeon to and mail order some muscle bound lunkhead. Those heroes you've all heard your fairy tales about? The ones who aren't elderly by now are out there on the front lines, leading their own teams of men. They take the fight to the enemy daily. The live and die with their men if need be. Extracting them isn't an option". Sylas cracks his knuckles. "Look, if you're wanting to hear some "chosen one" destiny hocus pocus, you're fresh out of luck. I've personally witnessed they way you all operate, and it isn't like soldiers. And to answer your question about cannon fodder, I think my record on the aft of that ship you were on speaks for itself. I don't deal in treating people under my command as pawns. Every life is valuable, and has a purpose. I chose you all because I have faith in you. You selflessly boarded an enemy vessel, without any real training or tools, to recover someone who you barely knew, and to take the fight to an enemy. That's the guts of ten soldiers each bound up in you all. And don't think I didn't get the hint that you, Miss Shiaran, wanted something a bit more than to just lend a hand. You help get these infernal faults closed down and I'll have you sitting behind the wheel of the biggest gunship you could imagine, full crew under your command. The bottom line is that I'm willing to trust you all with this, but you're going to have to trust me on my word as well. I want my homeland back, not just for me, not just for you. I want it back for the wife who thinks her husband is a turncoat. I want it back for the two children who were told "daddy died and isn't coming home". Everyone has a role to play in this war, whether as an active combatant or a bystander. Every single piece of this puzzle counts, because without them, the puzzle isn't complete. That's why I picked you. I've been in command of other people's lives for 20 years now, not counting our stasis, and I can see the potential in people. You have that potential. You, your brother, and Beloc are those pieces that make this section of the puzzle complete".

Sylas drains the remainder of his whiskey glass.
Shiaran Whiteraven
player, 106 posts
Human
Wizard/Rogue Gestault
Wed 5 Apr 2017
at 02:16
  • msg #108

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"Your...family?  I-I didn't know.  I'm sorry."  Tears well up in her eyes and she gently wipes them with a slender finger.  Her voice is quiet, small.  "I'm in."  She leans back in her chair, arms folded around herself like a hug as she listens in silence.
Sypher Whiteraven
player, 93 posts
Human
Paladin/Monk - Gestault
Wed 5 Apr 2017
at 02:17
  • msg #109

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Sypher finally sits in a chair.  The tension melts out of him.  He pats Shiaran on the shoulder in a show of solidarity but turns his full attention to Sylas.
Beloc S'Viscus
player, 116 posts
Wood Elf
Fighter/Druid - Gestault
Wed 5 Apr 2017
at 03:35
  • msg #110

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Beloc's eyes dart back and forth between Shiaran and Sypher. "Siblings. That explains alot.", he thinks to himself.

"I haven't exactly agreed to this suicide mission either, but if it's my time to return to the earth, then I can't imagine a better cause. The ley lines, while forces of nature in their own right, are being desecrated by this foul necromancy. If you have a way to seal them off, then I will be glad to help you. I served as a soldier back home, as well as personal guard to the leader of the Canopy Shapers. As long as there is breath in me, you will close those faults."

He takes a breath. "As for questions. Assuming the Firewyrm allow us safe passage, how long of a journey to the foothills? If the dwarves have sealed themselves off, what sort of enemy presence is there going over the mountains?"
Kallium Cairn
NPC, 3 posts
Wood Elf
Wed 5 Apr 2017
at 15:45
  • msg #111

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"Aside from the fauna of the area, we have indications that undead may be on a few key mountain passes. We think they are there purely as a back up plan for the PCA, should they get a foothold in Fildegarne and we make an approach from the mountains. If we do encounter any camps should we go over, it will be best to silence them along the way. Oh, and I'm well aware of your prior service to our people. Lithuanwe sung high praises of you when he returned. My own son will be thrilled when he learns his father is partnered with Beloc S'Viscus, much less that you're alive. Everyone back home thinks you dead, and your "martyr" has become a sort of inspirational story of sacrifice. The journey to the foot hills, should we avoid any snags along the way, would be a two week forced march. Five days by horse. Or three days by motor carriage". He ends his last sentence with a smile. "There have been more than a few advances in steam and arcane technology while you slumbered in the deep".
This message was last edited by the player at 02:05, Thu 06 Apr 2017.
Beloc S'Viscus
player, 117 posts
Wood Elf
Fighter/Druid - Gestault
Thu 6 Apr 2017
at 23:49
  • msg #112

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Beloc tries to maintain as modest an expression as possible as Kallium speaks of the sacrifice they all made.

"Motor carriage? Not sure I'd trust that just yet, given the experience we had on the Burrow. Five days on horseback seems fair enough to me."
Sylas Glen
NPC, 38 posts
Admiral
Fildegarian Navy
Fri 7 Apr 2017
at 18:27
  • msg #113

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"The horses would be the most advisable. You'll run out of road at one point or another, and I hear the motor carriages don't do well on uneven surfaces. That's the trade off for all that armor they carry. At any rate, you have in the ball park of 48 hours to get moving. I expect you'll all need a bit more time to get adjusted to the new decade, and you'll also need to visit the armory and the range tomorrow should you so choose. I'll pass the word along to each respective station that they're to get you anything you request, within reason. Also, I'll pass word along to the payroll office about your back pay. While I assume command of this operation, Major Cairn here will be directly in charge. If he says it, do it. He's well versed in modern tactics that suit today's battlefield, and he wont steer you wrong. Any further questions?".
Shiaran Whiteraven
player, 107 posts
Human
Wizard/Rogue Gestault
Sat 8 Apr 2017
at 00:58
  • msg #114

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"I have none that can't wait till we are on the road.  Once on the road I'll need detailed descriptions of every kind of foe you think we'll face.  Weaknesses, strengths, numbers, tactics and anything else you know about them.  Even reproduction methods and down time habits.  But for now, I'd like to see the gear we have available and then study. "  Shiaran seems anxious to get to the gear and whatnot for the trip.

Sypher only shakes his head, indicating he has no questions either.
Beloc S'Viscus
player, 118 posts
Wood Elf
Fighter/Druid - Gestault
Sat 8 Apr 2017
at 01:29
  • msg #115

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"Who would you suggest we speak to in order to get brought up to speed on current events? Aside from this war, I imagine much has happened."
Kallium Cairn
NPC, 4 posts
Wood Elf
Sat 8 Apr 2017
at 01:50
  • msg #116

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"I'd be more than happy to answer questions and fill in any blanks you may have. And Lieutenant Whiteraven.. the ah, female one, I appreciate your gusto on the mission, but being past dinner, the armory and essentially everywhere else will be closed at this hour".

Sylas chimes in. "The good news is that everything opens up just before sunrise. Oh, and I'll be letting your escorts know you wont be needing them anymore. You have the run of the base. Just.. don't go getting any ideas about poking around in areas where common sense tells you not to. You'll all have a long day ahead of you tomorrow, so I suggest you find your way to your racks soon. I'm going to turn in myself, and hand over everything to Major Cairn".
Dungeon Master
GM, 147 posts
Roller of Dice
Giver of Trinkets
Sat 8 Apr 2017
at 02:20
  • msg #117

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

The group makes their way to bed, armed with just enough knowledge and purpose to be dangerous. Each of you, barely able to sleep or rest, has no problem with being awake before the dawn, as Sylas failed to mention buglers playing reveille.

One by one as you exit your rooms, you find Callium waiting for you. Once breakfast has been taken care of, he asks where everyone wants to start.
Shiaran Whiteraven
player, 108 posts
Human
Wizard/Rogue Gestault
Sat 8 Apr 2017
at 02:28
  • msg #118

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Shiaran wakes, grumbling about the bugles.  She doesn't waste time getting ready, but she does take time.  Her reputation of beauty isn't just for show.  It is as much her armor as the leather she wears.  Once satisfied that everything is in proper place she opens the door.  She is immediately ready with an answer to the question having spent most of the hour before sleep thinking about it. "Armory with Sypher then the spellcaster library."
Sypher Whiteraven
player, 94 posts
Human
Paladin/Monk - Gestault
Sat 8 Apr 2017
at 02:32
  • msg #119

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Sypher has spent the night well rested.  Sleep has always come easy to him.  The training in the monastery has helped him still his mind for years when thoughts desire to race.  He is up before the bugles with morning prayer and study of the ever present leather-bound book.  When the knock comes he responds with a request for the Armory, expecting Shiaran to go their first, too.

They usually gear up together when they can.  It allows them to know what the other is capable of.  On the road, Shiaran will let him know of any new spells she's come across and what she intends to keep in memory.  She even takes his suggestions on that.  Sometimes.
Beloc S'Viscus
player, 119 posts
Wood Elf
Fighter/Druid - Gestault
Sat 8 Apr 2017
at 03:50
  • msg #120

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Beloc wakes before dawn and first heads to Moodin Point. He sits there quietly and watches the sunrise there before heading back for breakfast and to meet with the others.

With breakfast done, he heads to the armory to look over what options he has to equip himself.
Dungeon Master
GM, 148 posts
Roller of Dice
Giver of Trinkets
Sat 8 Apr 2017
at 19:21
  • msg #121

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

At the armory, the group is taken in to a room with a vault door on it. Inside, a plethora of firearms hangs on three of the four walls. Rows of shelves also line the room with various suits of armor (some familiar looking, some not). On the fourth wall, an assortment of combat shields, trench raiding clubs, and bladed weapons adorn the built in racks. A gruff looking older Marine with an eye patch guides you around the room, showing you what's available.

Of the fire arms, the primary categories are trench guns (shotguns), long range single shot rifles, medium range bolt-action rifles, and short range burst rifles. Each gun the three of you look at appears to have been meticulously cleaned and oil. Even the wooden stocks smell of linseed oil.

In a small section of the wall there are several large guns with what look like small drums attached to the bottoms. You're told they're called "light machine fed guns" or LMFG's for short. They look anything but light, and you're also told these weapons are used more so to lay down prone with and send out a blanket of gunfire rather than carry accurate marksmanship. The armory marine leaves an open invitation hanging in the air to answer questions about each weapon and its available rounds. Beside the LMFG's there is a gun with a barrel that by Shiaran's reckoning has to be at least five foot long, and the inner diameter looks big enough to stuff a small apple down it. There are two sled-like feet that stick off just as the barrel starts, and look to be designed as a way to rest the gun on the ground. The marine calls this the "rocket gun". "This baby here will punch a hole through dang near anything, if you got the stones to shoot it. Only way to do so is be layin' down though, and even then you're gonna scoot back at least a foot in the dirt. This one here is our own design, after we picked something similar off a PCA unit that was tearin' up our armor columns. Ours shoots a really big bullet, but their shoots all sorts of stuff. Fireballs, frozen orbs, acid canisters. If you can pick on theirs up out in the field our boys would sure be happy to have it on our side".

There are several smaller guns hanging on the walls as well, each designed for being held in a single hand and fired. Before the three of you entered your stasis, you'd heard of gnomish designed "pistolas", which operated like small hand held cannons. Slow to load, but good for a single attack. These on the other hand, like their larger rifle cousins, seem to utilize pre-packed cartilages of dragon's powder tucked behind a lead slug, and offer multiple shots before needing to be reloaded.

Over on the melee wall, cutlasses and scimitars, as well as curved long swords similar to the Whiteraven's katanas can be found. The varieties cover a range of one handed and two handed sizes. Five complete suits of full plate also hang on armor stands. They look exceptionally bulky. You're told they're extra thick on the torso and face areas, and reserved for assaulting trenches and bunkers. They weigh enough to bog down even the toughest of humanoids, but the protection they offer negates small arms fire and non-magical rounds. Next, you're shown a variety of maces and clubs, both spiked and non. The marine refers to these as truncheons. Some of them carry wicked looking barbs that would almost qualify them as elongated morning stars. Next to those, there are several steel shields that appear to be made for combat. Each has several runes etched into the perimeter of the shield face, and if the three of you didn't know any better, they almost seemed to be floating in place.

In the center of the room are several tables with shelves on top of them. They hold a variety of ammunitions, packs for everything from rounds to sleeping equipment to field mess kits. There are small hatchets, and small shovels as well used for digging trenches. The shovels have a knife edge on one side of the blade, suggesting they can be used for self defense if need be. Sealed metal tins marked "F-RAT" are stacked in neat rows. The marine explains these are field rations. Easy meals on the go. They taste terrible in most cases but they fill an empty stomach none-the-less.

There are more cylinder shaped cans as well, each with a symbol painted on the side. One type has a flame painted on it, while another has a series of lines radiating out from a center point. Another has what looks like a cloud painted on it. The last, has a skull and cross bones painted on it, but the skull is a strange looking mask.

Sitting on a stand in neat rows are the strange looking masks you saw on the cylinder, which the marine referred to as "'nades". They have what appear to be glass eye coverings and a sort of attachment at the mouth area, that looks like a puck. The mask appears to be designed to fit over one's entire head, and has liner around the neck area that looks similar to a lion's mane.

Finally, tucked over in a corner is an odd looking contraption that has a sort of tripod shape to it. Sitting next to it is a large satchel that looks to be filled with tin cans of some sort or another. The lids of the cans are hinged, suggesting they have something inside meant for quick retrieval.

One of the walls has a door way sitting in the center, with the word "UNIFORMS" stenciled on it.
This message was last edited by the GM at 19:38, Sat 08 Apr 2017.
Shiaran Whiteraven
player, 109 posts
Human
Wizard/Rogue Gestault
Sun 9 Apr 2017
at 00:21
  • msg #122

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Shiaran and Sypher talk to one another in low tones as they inspect the inventory.  Occasionally one or the other will nod or shake their head.  They both stop at the small firearms section.  "I'll take six.  Also, I'll need an enchanted pouch that reduces volume.  Weight too if you can, but volume is most important.  It needs to be just big enough to hold - what did you call them? - magazines.  Lot's of them.  We'll have to do something about that name, too.  That takes too long to say in the heat of battle.  Also, I'll need some place to redesign the harness and gun holder thingies for optimal draw and use.  I also want the best bow you have and if it doesn't fire energy bolts yet, then I need to see what kind of arrows you have."  She looks around the room for the melee stuff, but waits for Sypher.
Sypher Whiteraven
player, 95 posts
Human
Paladin/Monk - Gestault
Sun 9 Apr 2017
at 00:22
  • msg #123

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Sypher takes one of the pistols and fiddles with it until he figures out how it works.  Then he nods and adds a holster with an internal harness and a few magazines as well.  Then he points to one of the long range rifles.  "Which one of those has the best accuracy and range?"
Beloc S'Viscus
player, 120 posts
Wood Elf
Fighter/Druid - Gestault
Sun 9 Apr 2017
at 01:38
  • msg #124

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Beloc walks over to the 'floating' shields. "These here. Can you tell me about them? Is it possible to have the same effect applied to this?" He says gesturing to his darkwood shield.
Dungeon Master
GM, 149 posts
Roller of Dice
Giver of Trinkets
Sun 9 Apr 2017
at 02:50
  • msg #125

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

The old marine looks at Shiaran. He steals peeks at her out of the corner of his good eye throughout the guided tour. When she starts talking though, he offers short and concise answers to her questions and demands.

"Done... We don't carry those, ask the library... We call em' mags for short... Next room for tailoring... Don't have any bows here... Try out in town.

When Sypher asks about a rifle, the one-eyed marine replies "You want this one here, the Gerard M-92". He points to a sleek breech loading rifle. "She fires a pretty big round, but a tough guy like you can handle it. Stays accurate without much drop for the first 300 yards or so, but after that falls off pretty fast. Reload time takes longer than a magazine fed bolt action, but her stopping power will drop a deader in his tracks in most cases. She kicks too hard to mount a scope to, so you'd be sharp shooting with iron sights. Now if you want bolt action with a scope for looking at someones forehead up close before reaching out to touch them, I'd go with the Buelter-Janes K-33 here. No drop till 250 yards, 4 round internal mag, but less of an impact wound. Still though, a well placed shot with this fella' and you don't need to send a second one".

When Beloc asks about shield. "I don't handle any of that, ain't got a magic bone in my body. There's some handy folks in that craft out in the library, and at least one shop that deals in arcane items is left out in town. He doesn't carry much stock these days though. We've made em' a wealthy old wizard with a decade of buying his stuff".
Sypher Whiteraven
player, 96 posts
Human
Paladin/Monk - Gestault
Mon 10 Apr 2017
at 01:37
  • msg #126

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Sypher takes the smaller rifle with the scope.  His philosophy has always been precision over raw power.  The greater range is tempting, but he will better be able to use the gun as cover fire with more rounds.  "I'll need twenty mags.  Where will we resupply in between ley lines?"  His question is asked as they move through the armory.  Time is growing short and he knows he cannot slow to hear the answers.  The marine will have to walk and talk at the same time.

When they arrive at the lighter armor, Sypher digs through looking for things that fit his training.  "I'm looking for bracers or leather gauntlets, something I can catch a weapon, claw, or teeth on without losing the arm.  Magically enhanced would be ideal.  Also, anything you have in the way of belts or sashes, enchanted foot gear, preferably light, and other things that won't inhibit my movement whatsoever.  I prefer not to have jewelry as it can get caught on things, but if you have anything significant that compliments a monk's style of fighting, I'll consider it.  Also, throwing stars and magic daggers.  I am focused on anything magical because we are going up against negative plane stuff here and the monks taught us that the undead usually are immune to non-magical attacks.  So far, the only thing I have is my katana.  If that gets taken out of the picture, I'll need backup."
Shiaran Whiteraven
player, 110 posts
Human
Wizard/Rogue Gestault
Mon 10 Apr 2017
at 01:54
  • msg #127

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Sypher's words cause Shiaran to tap her teeth, an affectation she picked up as a child that said that her mind was racing.  "Same for me."  With those words she grabs up the pistols, as many mags as they'll let her abscond with or that will fit in the biggest bag at hand, the holsters and harness for them, and leaves.

Her destination is the library.  Once there, she will start researching all she can about undead, their strengths, weaknesses, and any thing she can learn about disrupting whatever it was that kept them moving after death.
Dungeon Master
GM, 152 posts
Roller of Dice
Giver of Trinkets
Mon 10 Apr 2017
at 03:06
  • msg #128

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

The old marine nods to Sypher. "We might have one or two things up your ally in the uniforms room. Take as much time as you need in here to gather what have you, I'm under orders to give you all full access to the place and to not ask questions. I'll be next door when you're ready. As far as resupply goes, you'll have to check in with whoever is out in the field. We have base camps and regiments scattered all over... just don't count on them being as generous as the armory, they have a war to fight too after all. Magical stuff, like I said, will either be at the library or the shop out in town. The shop is your best bet for anything like what you're describing. Once we get you outfitted with whatever your preference is, I can take you out to the range to give you a crash course on whatever you have questions about. That goes for you too. I have a special surprise for when we get to the range. You'll have to pass it along to the lady once you get back with her I guess" he says, looking at Beloc. "Oh, and one more thing. I highly recommend grabbing gas masks if you don't already have them, and some F-RATs, unless you plan on hunting and risking open cooking fire out there. PCA sharp shooters love to crack rounds at anything that glows in the dark". He starts to make his way towards the door that's labeled "Uniforms".

Meanwhile, at the library, Shiaran is greeted by a junior marine. He greets her with a salute and a "Good morning Ma'am". You aren't sure if he was told of your coming or if he's just covering his bases to avoid a potential butt chewing.

The library has around 12 book cases, a whole head taller than Shiaran. It isn't a massive room by any standard, but the book cases are 4 feet wide and completely full of books. An elderly man in a naval officer's uniform sits in the back behind an antique looking desk. An assortment of bobbles and knickknacks adorn the surface of the desk. He is currently levitating a fountain pen across a piece of paper, letting it lazily draw symbols. He seems to be off in his own world. The private first class (pfc) that greeted Shiaran walks behind her. "Anything in particular I can help you with Ma'am?". When Shiaran mentions books on the dead, he instantly snaps to business and within half a minute has 4 large tomes, all bound in the same dull colored olive green binding as many of the other books in the library. As for her request on magical pouches, the pfc tells her that the old man in the back, Commander Albright can assist her with that. Upon hearing his name the old man looks up and finally notices Shiaran. He sits upright and adjust his posture, and then clears his throat. "Ah, yes, what exactly can I do for you, miss..?". The marine interupts. "Modified bags of holding, sir. Ammo rigs if I'm understanding her right". The old officer stands up, slowly. The man stands eye to eye with Shiaran, mostly due to being stooped over. He looks like he's old enough to nearly have great-grand children. "Just a moment, I have a few things in the back. I'm assuming you're part of the team we were told to give whatever you want and to keep hushed about". He says the last part with a slight edge in his voice. You aren't sure if the fact annoys him on a personal or professional level.

Shiaran has time to find a seat and crack open the first book before Commander Albright returns. He holds two canvas satchels that look only big enough to hold a loaf of bread each. "They'll contain 500 of most any round in their respective magazines, without any of the weight beyond what the bags weigh. They don't make noise, but your things can get jumbled around inside, so take care when packing it. It's taken me a while to perfect these; still haven't worked out keeping things sorted".

The books in front of her seem to all be based around first hand accounts of undead and PCA forces encountered by troops over the years. Giant stitched together abominations, ghouls in full military garb with rifles, zombies with truncheons, and even wraiths fill the pages, with each account painting out grizzly scenes and pictures of what a decade's worth of troops have faced.
Sypher Whiteraven
player, 97 posts
Human
Paladin/Monk - Gestault
Mon 10 Apr 2017
at 10:56
  • msg #129

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Sypher gathers any gear that meets his requirements and moves over to the uniform room.  His collection is growing and he looks for a sack to put it all in to sort later in his room.  Once in the uniform room he looks for the aforementioned gear, smaller accoutrements that won't impede his movement, but that may offer additional protection and versatility on the battlefield.  He knows he will not always be able to rely on his sword.
Shiaran Whiteraven
player, 111 posts
Human
Wizard/Rogue Gestault
Mon 10 Apr 2017
at 11:02
  • msg #130

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"Thank you, Commander, private."  She turns to each and give them her most sincere smile.  Books in hand, she finds a table and begins to read.  It takes her the rest of the morning to devour the contents of the books, but the information will be vital to their success in the field.  She makes mental notes as to her own skillset as well as Sypher's and decides on a certain regular spell list to keep in memory.  All the while she bemoans her own lack of skill which keeps the amount of spells on that list too small for her liking.

"I need wands, rods, staves..." she mutters quietly to herself.  A whole mage factory churning out weapons against the undead blooms in her mind.  The way the war is being waged now is a losing proposition.  They just don't have the equipment necessary against the more supernatural foe.

Her reading done, she goes back over to the Commander to return the books.  "Thank you for your help.  Is the wizard in town seriously the only magi supporting this army?"
Dungeon Master
GM, 153 posts
Roller of Dice
Giver of Trinkets
Mon 10 Apr 2017
at 15:23
  • msg #131

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Commander Albright answers Shiaran. "I wouldn't say only, but he's the only one who isn't a cheat with marked up prices. He doesn't directly support us either. Coin is coin to him. The others also don't run reputable shops. Shady black market businesses underground. Completely off limits to us, by order of the Grand Admiral. Local constables keep tabs on them too. They mostly deal in contraband spell componenets, and the occasional PCA oddity gear that makes its way back as a war trophy. The kind of things that would be better suited to an R&D department. But the slack in manpower means we can't properly round them up and raid them. So for now, they keep quiet, and we pretend they don't exist".

Sypher peruses the uniform section. Officer and enlisted coats, trousers, shirts, boots, belts and covers sit on clothing racks and shelves. One shelf in particular has cloth cuffs with metal plates on them, with what looks to be bandana style head wraps with a metal forehead protector on them. The design of both is low profile, designed to be worn under a uniform or helmet, and have an unnatural dull sheen. Several belts with overly large buckles adorned in runes can also be found.

Belts are Belts of Minor Cats Grace/ +2 DEX. Head covers are +1 AC. Cuffs are +1 AC. One of the officer overcoats adds 1 additional spell slot for level 1 through 4 spells. There are a pair of shin high boots that offer an additional 10 foot of movement speed. There is a shoulder holster for a pistol that grants the quick draw feat for any firearm it holsters.

Belt of Minor Cats Grace x 2
Bandana of Minor Armor x2
Cuffs of Minor Armor x1
Overcoat of Castings x1
Boots of Quick Stepping x1
Holster of Rapid Retrieval x1

 

Sypher Whiteraven
player, 98 posts
Human
Paladin/Monk - Gestault
Mon 10 Apr 2017
at 15:59
  • msg #132

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"I'll take all of it.  Can the cuffs be modified?  If not, I'll give them to Shiaran and just take full bracers."

Sypher takes the gear and heads back to his room after the marine answers.  He'll try on the things more suited to him, the boots, the headband, the belt.  The rest he leaves in the sack for Shiaran.  Once he gets used to the new gear, he puts on the holster, grabs the guns, the ammo, and the sack and heads for the gun range for practice.
Beloc S'Viscus
player, 121 posts
Wood Elf
Fighter/Druid - Gestault
Tue 11 Apr 2017
at 01:15
  • msg #133

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Somewhat deflated, Beloc walks over to the wall of melee weapons. His eye is drawn to the oversized scimitars hanging there. "These look interesting. Anything special about them?" He lifts one of it's hook and gauges is weight and balance.
Dungeon Master
GM, 154 posts
Roller of Dice
Giver of Trinkets
Tue 11 Apr 2017
at 02:09
  • msg #134

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

As Beloc looks over the weaponry, a Falchion among the others catches his eye. It has a bright silvery luster to it, and is definitely not made of steel like the rest. The blade has finely detailed etchings, depicting a man cleaving through some great desert worm. The body is broken in several places, and wisps of some sort are escaping the cuts. The scabbard and hilt are wrapped in a tanned brown skin. Guess work leads Beloc to believe it may be the skin from a worm like that depicted on the blade. The texture is rough and provides a good grip. The guard area is completely wrapped in long brown fur, resembling a camel's mane.

Silver Falchion of Mighty Cleaving/1 additional cleave attempt per round

The old one-eyed marine looks at the cuffs. "I don't rightly know, though I've always heard you can only add to, not take away from magical stuff. Those are the last set we have, and we ain't got anything else of the sort here. We're lucky to have what we do have now, all things considered. I reckon you could tuck them under some actual bracers. They're made to be concealed underneath clothing and all".


Weaponry: As for the pistols picked up by those who grabbed them.

RG-1422's
DMG: 2d4 Piercing per shot. TWO shots per standard attack (i.e. 4d4, and 2 attack rolls)
CRIT: 19-20 X2
RANGE: 50 ft/ -2 to hit and -4 dmg per 50ft beyond that (rounded up).
AC REDUCTION: Add 2/attack roll
CAPACITY: 6+1 Shots
RELOAD TIME: Standard Action
WEIGHT: 2 Lbs
SIZE: Small

Beloc S'Viscus
player, 122 posts
Wood Elf
Fighter/Druid - Gestault
Tue 11 Apr 2017
at 02:41
  • msg #135

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Beloc smiles a toothy grin. "This is a good blade. I would like this one."

Taking the advice of the quartermaster, he also grabs a gas mask and an allotment of F-RATS. "I haven't seen one of these before. Would you mind explaining its use?"
Gunny Hartman
NPC, 5 posts
Gunnery Sergeant
Fildegarian Royal Marines
Wed 12 Apr 2017
at 03:10
  • msg #136

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

The one-eyed marine replies "The PCA have a nasty habit of using gas to attack our troops. Sometimes, it just causes a coughing fit. Other times, its melted the eyes right out of our boy's skulls. We even hear rumor of a new type being use way out west in the Black Sands.  They say it kills near instantly, and those that died from it rise back up and turn on their units. My point being, you can't be too careful. These masks have a cartridge on the front that filters all the yuck out of the air, until you can get to safer ground. It's as simple as slipping it on over your head and pulling he neck straps tight. Not tight enough to choke you, but tight enough that the horse hair around the edges makes a full complete covering around you. They're alchemically treated and help to repel whatever it is you don't want to breath in. Just remember, these things don't last forever, and they don't permanently keep you breathing clean. If you find yourself in a gas cloud, get your mask on as quick as possible and get out of there".
Beloc S'Viscus
player, 123 posts
Wood Elf
Fighter/Druid - Gestault
Wed 12 Apr 2017
at 03:24
  • msg #137

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Beloc nods. "Good to know. I suppose I should head over to the library to see what they can do about floating shields."

As he starts walking out, he stops at the wall of guns. He picks up a rather stumpy one with a wide barrel. "One of these trench guns looks to be about my speed as well."

He grabs a healthy amount of ammo and heads to the library.
Dungeon Master
GM, 155 posts
Roller of Dice
Giver of Trinkets
Mon 17 Apr 2017
at 00:38
  • msg #138

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

At the library Beloc is met by the junior marine at the door. He salutes and asks what he can do for Beloc.
Beloc S'Viscus
player, 124 posts
Wood Elf
Fighter/Druid - Gestault
Mon 17 Apr 2017
at 00:48
  • msg #139

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"Well, I saw some pretty interesting gear over at the armory, but it wasn't quite my style, so to speak. The floating shields caught my attention, but they were all metal. I was wondering if you knew someone that could put the same treatment on one like this."

He unstraps his darkwood shield and shows it to the marine.
Dungeon Master
GM, 156 posts
Roller of Dice
Giver of Trinkets
Mon 17 Apr 2017
at 23:44
  • msg #140

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

The pfc and commander come take a look at Beloc's shield. Commander Albright lets out a surprised whistle. "Iron wood is it? Very hard to come by these days, and cost a small fortune if you get your hands on some. It's beyond my skill to enchant this, but I do know of someone who can. Darius Grintome, the local magic shop owner should be more suited for something such as this. He took a several rounds to his leg in the first year of the war, and it crippled him. Hobbles around with a cane now, and wouldn't be of much good to anyone out in the field. Still though, he's a very talented mage. I do hope you have your pocket book overflowing for a job such as this; he isn't cheap by any means. Supply and demand and what have you".
Gunny Hartman
NPC, 6 posts
Gunnery Sergeant
Fildegarian Royal Marines
Mon 17 Apr 2017
at 23:54
  • msg #141

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Meanwhile...

Gunny Hartman and Sypher chew through rounds out at the range, with the old gunnery sergeant patiently guiding Sypher through the weapons he's chosen, and then some for good measure. Sypher gets a crash course in at least one of every type of rifle and pistol found in the armory, from bolt actions to light machine-fed guns, to the smaller automatic weapons as well.

"Not bad, not bad" he says, with each new gun explored by Sypher. "You keep your nerves steeled out there, and with shooting like this, you might just survive your first few battles".

The rounds continue to crack down range as marines and sailors are also out at their routine practice. The noise would be deafening, if not for a pair of wax plugs that the gunny provided Sypher for his ears. In Sypher's pocket lies a small metal tin with several more pairs. The wax plugs are enchanted to reduce the volume of loud and deafening noises while allowing lower decibel sounds like shouting and normal level talking to pass through them unhindered.

Infantry Wax Plugs x 5: +4 resist versus sonic attacks. Negates being shaken by loud noises. Indefinite use, but are destroyed by any source of flame
Beloc S'Viscus
player, 125 posts
Wood Elf
Fighter/Druid - Gestault
Tue 18 Apr 2017
at 00:15
  • msg #142

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Beloc smiles. "One could only wish. I was lucky enough to earn this", he taps on his chest plate. "The Glen Warden Plate was handed down to me from the chieftain of the Canopy Shapers and is preserved by the Ironwood enchantment. The shield, while valuable itself, is crafted from darkwood and should be suitable for your mage Darius, should we could to an agreement."

"How far away is this shop?"
Dungeon Master
GM, 157 posts
Roller of Dice
Giver of Trinkets
Tue 18 Apr 2017
at 01:49
  • msg #143

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

The pfc pipes up. "About 20 minutes outside the main gate sir. Just head out left until you come to Main street, and then hang a right and follow it".
Sypher Whiteraven
player, 99 posts
Human
Paladin/Monk - Gestault
Tue 18 Apr 2017
at 11:12
  • msg #144

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"Thank you, sergeant."  Sypher continues to practice until the sergeant suggests Sypher understands enough to be proficient in the field.  He looks to move to moving targets if they are available. Eventually he will take a late lunch and look for Shiaran, though she seems to have found something else to do for the entire day.

After lunch, Sypher will spend time in the library.  He will ask for the books that Shiaran read, the ones she spent the most time with, and read through them as well.  He finds useful information on undead and the primary enemy of his homeland.  Before dinner, he will find a quiet place on the base to meditate, pray, and study his own little book.  Iehovah has never spoken to him and he is unsure how the most powerful deity in all existence would even interact with his world.  According to the one who gave him the book, the events in the book took place within an entirely different universe.  No matter.  It's the only book, the only faith that ever made sense to Sypher growing up and he has dedicated himself to his God.

Sypher finishes up his studies and heads to the main mess hall to eat with the regular soldiers left on base.  He not only wishes to get to know them, but to hear their stories about how the world is currently, how the war is going from their perspective.  He grabs whatever standard fare is offered, a glass of water, and sits near the largest group of soldiers there.
Beloc S'Viscus
player, 126 posts
Wood Elf
Fighter/Druid - Gestault
Tue 18 Apr 2017
at 13:04
  • msg #145

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Beloc nods. "Thank you. Looks like I have time for a quick walk. I'll be back later if I have anything left from our back pay."

He heads out the door and makes his way over to Grintome's shop.
Dungeon Master
GM, 158 posts
Roller of Dice
Giver of Trinkets
Thu 20 Apr 2017
at 01:23
  • msg #146

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

The morning air is still brisk when Beloc sets out on the streets. The hustle and bustle of city life here is a far cry from what one might imagine. A scant few people can be found out and about, and the majority of them are women, children, and the elderly. Aside from a few service members out on leave, or bringing themselves back to base from rather late nights, the only fighting age men Beloc see's are all wounded or crippled in some way.

A little over 20 minutes in to following the marine librarian's directions, Beloc finds himself standing in front of a shop.

The front door to the mage's shop read "Grintome's Curious Items".
Beloc S'Viscus
player, 127 posts
Wood Elf
Fighter/Druid - Gestault
Thu 20 Apr 2017
at 01:49
  • msg #147

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Beloc chuckles to himself. "Curious indeed." He turns the handle and walks in. The shop is modest in size, but the barren shelves and display cases give the sense of it being much large. Either lack of care or lack of customers seems to have taken its toll on the shop. The musty smell of old wood polish, scrolls strewn about in a haphazardly organized fashion, and glass vials scattered about gives off a more homey feel than a business front.

He walks up to the front desk and taps three times.
Darius Grintome
NPC, 1 post
Mage
Thu 20 Apr 2017
at 21:05
  • msg #148

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

The tinkling of a small bell over the door is heard as you walk in and take in the sights. A handsome man who looks to be in his thirties walks in from a back room. His hair is jet black with thin streaks of grey along the sides. His jaw line is square, and his physique is fairly trim. However, he stoops slightly, and limps along with a cane. He wears a fine black overcoat that goes down knee length, and you notice the inner lining has the appearance of the night sky when the stars are at their brightest. His pants are pressed with a crease along the front, and his black leather shoes have a brilliant shine to them.

"Good morning master elf. How may I be of service to you this fine day?".
Beloc S'Viscus
player, 128 posts
Wood Elf
Fighter/Druid - Gestault
Thu 20 Apr 2017
at 22:51
  • msg #149

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"I understand you are well versed in the art of enchantments. I believe I was admiring some of your work over at the armory. The floating shields?" Beloc removes the wooden shield from his back. "I was wondering if you could apply the same treatment to this."
Darius Grintome
NPC, 2 posts
Mage
Thu 20 Apr 2017
at 23:02
  • msg #150

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Darius props his cane against the counter and takes the shield from Beloc. "A very fine work of ironwood you have here, sir. And as a matter of fact, I can indeed apply the proper enchantment. Give me a moment to find the proper scroll from my storeroom". He places the shield on the counter and hobbles in to the back room. A moment later he reappears, clutching a large, rolled up sheet of parchment with a wax stamp on the outside. "I stand by my work, if the enchantment fizzles for any reason. I require payment up front, and will provide a full refund in the event that the enchantment doesn't take. Three hundred and twenty-five marks of the Crown is my price for this. It should take less than half an hour to apply".
Beloc S'Viscus
player, 129 posts
Wood Elf
Fighter/Druid - Gestault
Thu 20 Apr 2017
at 23:14
  • msg #151

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Beloc cocks his head to the side. "Seems a fair price." He fiddles with a pouch and pulls out the marks.

"Your shop doesn't appear to be a full as the space and shelves would suggest. Business is going well, I assume?"
Darius Grintome
NPC, 3 posts
Mage
Fri 21 Apr 2017
at 01:47
  • msg #152

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"A little too well actually. The troops pile in here before shipping out and spend every copper scrap they can muster to try and arm themselves better. After nearly a decade of this though, I'm feeling stretched thin. Too simple a life for too long. Ah, sorry. I'm rambling about my personal affairs here, and you certainly didn't walk through my door for that".
Beloc S'Viscus
player, 130 posts
Wood Elf
Fighter/Druid - Gestault
Fri 21 Apr 2017
at 13:51
  • msg #153

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"I believe it's the simple things in life that make it worth fighting for." He pulls out the recently acquired trenchgun and places it on the counter. "Speaking of which, weapons seem to have changed quite a bit since last time I was in a good fight. I'm used to arrows whizzing by, but nothing quite like this. Me, I prefer a straight up fight, but these new weapons seems to the edge out of close quarters combat. Do you happen to have anything that might offer a little protection from these types of projectiles?"
Darius Grintome
NPC, 4 posts
Mage
Sat 22 Apr 2017
at 00:12
  • msg #154

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"For the time, no. That's usually the first thing to fly off of my shelves. If you'll excuse me a moment..".

Darius unrolls and places the parchment on the shield, and speaks a command word. The parchment sticks to the shield as if it were saturated in glue, and a yellow glow outlining several runes forms on the parchment and shield. "This enchantment should take around half an hour's time to apply itself. You're free to remain here if you wish, though I regrettably don't have any sort of refreshment to offer you, other than the run of the mill fair I'm able to conjure".

The glowing yellow light shifts to a brilliant hue of emerald green, and a slight static tingles in the air.
Beloc S'Viscus
player, 131 posts
Wood Elf
Fighter/Druid - Gestault
Sun 23 Apr 2017
at 01:42
  • msg #155

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"Take your time. I didn't really find much of interest over at the library."

Beloc peruses the shop while the enchantment takes effect. The shop, for the most part, looks pretty picked over. However, he does manage to find a small jewelry box. Something he might have otherwise overlooked, but he was drawn to open it. Had Shiaran already visited the shop, he may not have been so lucky to find it.

He opens the box to find a variety of baubles and charms. One simple gold band with a braided fringe on the edge stands out. He walks over to the counter to inquire about it. "What can you tell me of this ring?" He smiles. "It reminds me of one my mother used to wear."
Darius Grintome
NPC, 5 posts
Mage
Mon 24 Apr 2017
at 01:05
  • msg #156

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"Ah, I'd forgotten about that. It carries an enchantment that heals wounds and fatigue over time. Quite handy when you're out there in the thick of it all. It retails for 600 Marks of the Crown".
Beloc S'Viscus
player, 132 posts
Wood Elf
Fighter/Druid - Gestault
Mon 24 Apr 2017
at 02:50
  • msg #157

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Beloc counts through the remaining marks and frowns. "I'm afraid that's a bit more than I have. If you'd settle for 500, I could give you 485 in marks and 15 in these gold coins."
Darius Grintome
NPC, 6 posts
Mage
Mon 24 Apr 2017
at 11:57
  • msg #158

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"Hmm. I'm not much for discounts, but I am willing to barter with a fellow caster. Your aura tells me you might have a bit of green magic tucked in there somewhere. I have several parchments ready to go with capture glyphs on them. Perhaps I could knock off a few Crown in exchange for a few druid spells? I don't get the chance often to catch those, and the scouts and snipers who come through my shop from time to time really benefit from much of what your people can cast".
Beloc S'Viscus
player, 133 posts
Wood Elf
Fighter/Druid - Gestault
Mon 24 Apr 2017
at 12:51
  • msg #159

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Beloc nods. "That seems fair enough. Scouts from my tribe rely heavily on spells like Pass Without Trace and Goodberry. I wouldn't mind donating a couple to the cause. Let me know how many you want and we can adjust the price accordingly."
Darius Grintome
NPC, 7 posts
Mage
Mon 24 Apr 2017
at 13:35
  • msg #160

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"I believe two of your "pass without trace" will suffice. Those will sell quickly and for a fair price"

Beloc stretches out his fingers as Darius unroll the first parchment. A dark blue rune glows, but gives off no light. Instead, it seems to draw light in, creating small shadows around it.

"Just cast as you would normally, with the rune being your target. I will warn you, it takes a bit of concentration. The three seconds it will take you to cast will feel like three minutes. You may feel the magic of the rune grasping for you. Don't let this alarm you, it can't  physically harm you, nor can it touch your mind. The nature of the magic will certainly make it feel as such though. Are you prepared?".

Concentration Check, DC 14, roll at advantage (reason:prior warning to prepare yourself)"
Beloc S'Viscus
player, 134 posts
Wood Elf
Fighter/Druid - Gestault
Tue 25 Apr 2017
at 02:49
  • msg #161

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"Ok", he says cautiously. "Sounds easy enough."

Beloc begins casting as normal and the magic begins to weave itself around the parchment as normal as well. That sense of normalcy is fleeting though because just as the magic starts to coalesce onto the page, it changes. The magic starts to pull back as if trying to draw more out than is needed. He furrows his brow and pushes through the first casting successfully. The glow on the parchment fades as the spell settles in. "You weren't kidding. That was unexpected."

He starts the second casting, same as the first. The magic, once again, begins to tug at him. He concentration begins to waver and the magic surrounding the parchment begins to shift and form a funnel of invisible force, pointed backward at him. Seconds feel like minutes as he engages in a mental tug of war with a piece of paper. Smothered much like the rock in the child's game, his concentration breaks and the spell fizzles and escapes his mind. He gasps at the loss. "What is this?"

"It's alright", Darius reassures him. "Happens to everyone the first time. Give it another go, I'm sure you'll get it on the next one."

Beloc grits his teeth and tries one last time. "Last one." Knowing full well what to expect now, he weaves his magic without incident. "There", he says wiping his forehead. "Two spells."

08:55, Today: Beloc S'Viscus rolled 8,22 using d20+3,d20+3.  Concentration #3 check w/advantage.
08:49, Today: Beloc S'Viscus rolled 8,5 using d20+3,d20+3.  Fudge: Concentration #2 check w/advantage.
08:48, Today: Beloc S'Viscus rolled 5,9 using d20+3,d20+3.  Concentration #2 check w/advantage.
08:48, Today: Beloc S'Viscus rolled 17,18 using d20+3,d20+3.  Concentration #1 check w/advantage.

Darius Grintome
NPC, 8 posts
Mage
Tue 25 Apr 2017
at 20:15
  • msg #162

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"Well done, my friend, well done. These will do nicely. And so our agreed upon "discount" stands". Darius picks the ring up from the counter, and admires it for a moment before holding it out to you.
Beloc S'Viscus
player, 135 posts
Wood Elf
Fighter/Druid - Gestault
Wed 26 Apr 2017
at 01:16
  • msg #163

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Beloc smiles weakly. "I'm going to need a rest after that." He places 485 marks on the counter along with 15 gold coins.
Darius Grintome
NPC, 9 posts
Mage
Wed 26 Apr 2017
at 01:40
  • msg #164

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Darius smiles warmly. "If you think using the spell is bad, imagine the long nights spent creating it. I thought I was going to die a few times. Ultimately, weeks of experimentation paid off though, and the capture spell is a closely guarded secret of mine. It's been the source of my success as a shop owner. Now then, anything else you'll be needing?".
Beloc S'Viscus
player, 136 posts
Wood Elf
Fighter/Druid - Gestault
Wed 26 Apr 2017
at 02:55
  • msg #165

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"I think I have what I need. Thank you." Beloc collects the shield and the ring and heads back. Before he makes it out the door, he turns back for one last comment.

"You know, that capture spell of yours, have you ever given thought to defensive uses of that spell? I could see quite a bit of potential for spell absorption and reflection there."
This message was last edited by the player at 12:55, Wed 26 Apr 2017.
Darius Grintome
NPC, 10 posts
Mage
Wed 26 Apr 2017
at 13:58
  • msg #166

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"I was once a battle mage" he says with a wink. "I have quite a few uses and variations, but I've decided to keep them to myself. Not out of selfishness mind you, but out of necessity for the realm. There are those among the PCA who can not only see in to your mind, but rip the very thoughts from your brain and take them as their own. It would be a terrible day indeed should they obtain my secrets. So for the time, I keep then as my own. Perhaps one day I'll consider an apprentice to carry on my work, but today is not that day. I still have much work ahead of me to accomplish my own goals first, and I wouldn't dare have those burdens placed on the shoulders of another". Darius stops talking for a moment and collects himself. "Forgive me, I'm droning on again. Nasty habit to develop'.
Beloc S'Viscus
player, 137 posts
Wood Elf
Fighter/Druid - Gestault
Mon 1 May 2017
at 12:57
  • msg #167

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Beloc nods. "Perhaps another time then. Take care of yourself." He exits the building.
Dungeon Master
GM, 162 posts
Roller of Dice
Giver of Trinkets
Mon 1 May 2017
at 13:12
  • msg #168

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

As Beloc exits, Darius gives him a quiet "you too". The trip back to base in uneventful. Later on in the afternoon, a light drizzle starts to fall. The three of you have all gleaned information about the current state of the world here and there. You've also learned it's Autumn. The temperature on wall thermometers for the better part of the day has been around 64 degrees, but the rain that's come has dropped the ambient air down to the mid fifties. In each of your officer's quarters you find that clean pressed uniforms have been delivered, should you choose to wear them. Among the clothing are rain cloaks, with high collars that have draw strings sewn in. Rain resistant covers for hats are also there.

Shiaran has managed to get some range time with Sypher and Gunny Hartman. Beloc too, for what little time he needs to assess his own weaponry. Each is congratulated for taking to marksmanship rather quickly.

As the sun goes down, the rain clouds continue to spill over on the city and base. Kallium makes a visit to each room to let them know dinner will be served at 1800 hours. 6pm. The time is now 1700.

Please indicate any actions you choose to take before dinner.
Shiaran Whiteraven
player, 112 posts
Human
Wizard/Rogue Gestault
Mon 1 May 2017
at 14:05
  • msg #169

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Shiaran organizes her gear so that she is ready to go at a moment's notice.  With a couple of small daggers secured on her person, she heads to dinner in the slacks provided and a black t-shirt.  The daggers are thus hidden in her boots.
Sypher Whiteraven
player, 100 posts
Human
Paladin/Monk - Gestault
Mon 1 May 2017
at 14:08
  • msg #170

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Sypher prepares his gear for the journey and sets it by the door, ready to depart on the morrow.  He eschews the uniform in favor of more informal clothing, a loose fitting sleeveless shirt and wide-legged pants.  He spends some time reading then heads to dinner, joining Shiaran along the way.
Beloc S'Viscus
player, 138 posts
Wood Elf
Fighter/Druid - Gestault
Mon 1 May 2017
at 14:32
  • msg #171

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Beloc packs up what little belongings he has in preparation for their departure. He dons the uniform, along with the same wooden amulet from the night before, and heads to dinner at 1745. He aims to arrive a little early to observe those arriving.
This message was last edited by the player at 14:49, Mon 01 May 2017.
Dungeon Master
GM, 163 posts
Roller of Dice
Giver of Trinkets
Thu 4 May 2017
at 21:22
  • msg #172

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

As the three of you reach the dining hall, you're escorted through the officers dining area and through a door to the back. This is the Admiral's personal table. A luxurious spread of foods sure to please most anyone sits before you all. Fine china and silverware adorn seven place settings at a long rectangular table. Sylas sits at one end, with Driggs at the other. Each of you are welcomed with a greeting and hand shake from the two admirals, and they make small talk while waiting for Major Cairn to show up.

When he does show around 10 minutes later, a large mechanical construct walks in the room with him. He nods to everyone.

"Admirals. Lady. Gentlemen. I'd like to present the final member of our team. Rebort".
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:22, Thu 04 May 2017.
Shiaran Whiteraven
player, 113 posts
Human
Wizard/Rogue Gestault
Thu 4 May 2017
at 21:57
  • msg #173

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Shiaran looks at the spread, impressed and perhaps a bit calculating.  She finds her customary seat at the end of the table farthest from Sylas.  She bows her head for a moment and then starts piling food on her plate.

When the golem thing walks in she looks up, shrugs, and returns to her meal.
Sypher Whiteraven
player, 101 posts
Human
Paladin/Monk - Gestault
Thu 4 May 2017
at 22:03
  • msg #174

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Sypher takes a seat next to Shiaran.  He to bows his head, though it stays that way for a much longer time.  When he is done, he lifts his head, sees Shiaran digging in, and lifts his head to the heavens in askance.

The food and dinnerware cause him to reflect on those without, those who have undoubtedly lost much in the war.  His small frown is quickly replaced by the nirmal, calm and pleasant expression he usually wears.  He waits until others, besides Shiaran, indicate it is appropriate to eat.  When the Major enters with the golem, introducing by name, Sypher's eyes widen in surprise.  He stands and comes around the table, holding out a hand to the new team member, his voice quiet as ever.  "Sypher Whiteraven.  Welcome to the team, Rebort."
Dungeon Master
GM, 164 posts
Roller of Dice
Giver of Trinkets
Thu 4 May 2017
at 22:32
  • msg #175

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Shiaran and Rebort recognise one another from the entry to Grintome's.
R.E.B.O.R.T.
Warforged, 23 posts
Fighter
Artificer
Thu 4 May 2017
at 22:59
  • msg #176

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

R.E.B.O.R.T. walks over to the table where the others are seated. For those who have encountered constructs before, he is very unlike those. His movements are fluid and grace, despite the fact that the majority of his outward appearance is primarily metal. The frame that outlines his 'musculature' has a polish to it that is nearly reflective. Wooden plates, highly infused with the same silvery metal as his frame, fill in the gaps within his framing. Embedded in the center of his chest is a large fire opal that radiates a soft orangish-red glow, similar to the same light that burns in his eyes.

He reaches for Sypher's hand and clasps it firmly. "Greetings, Sypher." His voice sounds surprisingly human, yet still has a small mechanical hint to it, kind of like the sound you would expect to hear talking into a tin can.

He looks over to Shiaran, the woman he met in passing while walking back into Darius's shop, who is much more concerned about her plate than anything else. In the fleeting moment that he catches her attention, he returns a polite nod to her.
This message was last edited by the player at 13:17, Fri 05 May 2017.
Shiaran Whiteraven
player, 114 posts
Human
Wizard/Rogue Gestault
Thu 4 May 2017
at 23:08
  • msg #177

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Not intending to be completely rude, Shiaran wipes her hands and stands.  She gives the golem a smile and also offers a hand.  "Shiaran.  Pleasure to meet you, Rebort."
Beloc S'Viscus
player, 139 posts
Wood Elf
Fighter/Druid - Gestault
Fri 5 May 2017
at 13:16
  • msg #178

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Beloc stands and bows to the newcomer. For as tall as Beloc is, he still has to look up somewhat in order meet Rebort's eyes. "Beloc S'Vicsus. Welcome to the team."
R.E.B.O.R.T.
Warforged, 24 posts
Fighter
Artificer
Fri 5 May 2017
at 13:20
  • msg #179

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

R.E.B.O.R.T. greets everyone cordially but does not take a seat. Instead, he stands at the end of the table, looking outward towards the rest of the dinner party.
Beloc S'Viscus
player, 140 posts
Wood Elf
Fighter/Druid - Gestault
Fri 5 May 2017
at 13:23
  • msg #180

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Beloc sits back down and looks over to the construct. "If you don't mind me asking, what role do you expect to play in this group?" He asks out of curiosity in part, but also in an attempt to validate his own role.
R.E.B.O.R.T.
Warforged, 25 posts
Fighter
Artificer
Fri 5 May 2017
at 13:29
  • msg #181

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

R.E.B.O.R.T. turns his head back to look at the wood elf. "I do not mind. My primary functions are reconnaissance and support."

His head swivels back to its previous position for a moment and then, like a parent reminding a child to reciprocate conversation, turns his head back to face Beloc. "What is your function?"
Beloc S'Viscus
player, 141 posts
Wood Elf
Fighter/Druid - Gestault
Fri 5 May 2017
at 13:31
  • msg #182

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

In an involuntary reaction to the odd nature of the question, Beloc tweaks his head to the side. "My function? I guess you could call me a warrior. Frontline assault mostly."
Sylas Glen
NPC, 39 posts
Admiral
Fildegarian Navy
Fri 5 May 2017
at 15:54
  • msg #183

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"Frontline assault indeed. That's a bit of an understatement actually".
Grand Admiral Driggs
NPC, 7 posts
Human
Naval Officer
Fri 5 May 2017
at 15:55
  • msg #184

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Driggs nods and listens to the pleasantries, helping himself to several small sandwiches in the process.

Kallium looks fondly at the entire group. It's very apparent that a certain weight has been lifted from his shoulders with the founding of the team.
Sypher Whiteraven
player, 102 posts
Human
Paladin/Monk - Gestault
Fri 5 May 2017
at 17:32
  • msg #185

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Seeing the others eat and that Rebort has established his place at the table, Sypher sits and begins to eat.  He has little to say, little curiosity that won't be satisfied over the course of the meal.  Instead, he eats moderately and awaits questions to himself.
Grand Admiral Driggs
NPC, 8 posts
Human
Naval Officer
Fri 5 May 2017
at 20:00
  • msg #186

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Once everyone has settled in to their seats, Driggs adresses the collective group.

"I hope that everyone has found their accomodations to be adequate. I'm sure for the likes of you all, being stuck here is a complete bore. However, you have my and Glen's, much less the Crown's gratitude. I'd like to propose a toast to you all. But before that, this collection of brave souls requires a name. Your unit is officially on paper called Special Task Force Number Nine, but for the nature of this mission, that wont do at all. How does the call sign "Eisenwölfe" sound? It means "the iron wolves" in Olde-Fildegarian. I'm open to suggestion though, so fire away if you have anything".
Shiaran Whiteraven
player, 115 posts
Human
Wizard/Rogue Gestault
Fri 5 May 2017
at 20:34
  • msg #187

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Shiaran giggles.  "Well Shadow Wolf in Olde Fildegarne sounds crude.  Perhaps Skia Lykos?  Reikaze?"  She shrugs, not caring one way or the other.
Sypher Whiteraven
player, 103 posts
Human
Paladin/Monk - Gestault
Fri 5 May 2017
at 20:35
  • msg #188

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Sypher offers no suggestions.  He just listens and eats.
Beloc S'Viscus
player, 142 posts
Wood Elf
Fighter/Druid - Gestault
Sat 6 May 2017
at 00:41
  • msg #189

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Beloc thinks a moment. "Back home, our defenders would often refer to themselves as 'sargti di wer thaczil'. It translates roughly to 'defenders of the realm'.
Shiaran Whiteraven
player, 116 posts
Human
Wizard/Rogue Gestault
Sat 6 May 2017
at 00:54
  • msg #190

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Shiaran makes a face at Beloc's suggestion, but quickly hides it with another large bite of food.
Kallium Cairn
NPC, 12 posts
Wood Elf
Sat 6 May 2017
at 00:57
  • msg #191

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"How about the "Mithril Hounds"? What with sniffing out these fault lines, and mithril is both valuable and rare, much like the talent in this room".
This message was last edited by the player at 00:58, Sat 06 May 2017.
Sypher Whiteraven
player, 104 posts
Human
Paladin/Monk - Gestault
Sat 6 May 2017
at 01:28
  • msg #192

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Sypher gently sets his utensils down in the appropriate place, wipes his face, and looks down the table.  "Gentlemen, you are in command.  Pick whatever designation you feel appropriate.  I had opportunity to speak to some of the soldiers in the mess hall earlier today.  It seems to me that people are dying while we sit here and eat this delicious meal on these pointlessly expensive dishes.  Perhaps it would be more useful to get to the details of our mission so that we have time to process it before sleep.  Then we can have the last good rest we are likely to get for some time and start fresh."  His voice does not raise and he shows neither anger, nor impatience.

Sypher remains polite and to the point, urging the men to things he believes more important without trying to give offense.  "I for one am ready to get to it.  Zoe esti de atmis."  The last seems to be a quote.
Sylas Glen
NPC, 40 posts
Admiral
Fildegarian Navy
Sat 6 May 2017
at 01:42
  • msg #193

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Sylas lets his brow furrow. His tone is calm. "What more would you like to know, Sypher? You've elected to travel by horse back, and Major Cairn is leading you to the first fault that he closed to give you all a feel for what you're looking for. From there, its through the Firewrym Clan Lands to either over the mountain or under them to Fildegarne City, where we think the next fault is. I understand that people are dying, son. And it doesn't entirely sit right sometimes to not have to be standing shoulder to shoulder with them, but that's war. And you'll get yours soon enough, you can count on that. This, tonight, is one last bit of comfort before you hit the road in the morning. You'll miss this within a week, I can guarantee you that".

Driggs, looking down at his plate, very quietly clears his throat. "Eisenwölfe it is, then"
This message was last edited by the player at 01:43, Sat 06 May 2017.
R.E.B.O.R.T.
Warforged, 26 posts
Fighter
Artificer
Sat 6 May 2017
at 03:11
  • msg #194

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

R.E.B.O.R.T's voice echoes out across the dining hall as he repeats Drigg's last statement. "Eisenwölfe". As if bringing some sort of finality to the decision.
Sypher Whiteraven
player, 105 posts
Human
Paladin/Monk - Gestault
Sat 6 May 2017
at 04:05
  • msg #195

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"Is it true that the Capitol has closed?Could...Eisenwolfe be useful at Reef Lake?"
Grand Admiral Driggs
NPC, 9 posts
Human
Naval Officer
Sat 6 May 2017
at 13:45
  • msg #196

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"Yes, communications coming in and out of the capitol have ceased. We aren't sure why at the moment, because the PCA front line has managed to surge forward and push us back in critical areas. However, just like Reef Lake, that's a job for grunts. This isn't the first time we've seen the enemy forces surge forward. However, I and Sylas firmly believe that the discovery of the Spectral Faults is what's bolstering the enemy this round. That is why it's imperative they be closed off. That is why your team has been assembled. A large force pushing in on the fault lines will alert the enemy, and they'll triple their guard of sites. They'll be nigh impregnable areas. The need for quick and quiet maneuvers is at hand, which is precisely where you come in. By the time the PCA catches on to the wetwork you'll be performing, it will be too late for them. Even if you only manage half of the potential faults before they see the pattern, the damage will be done. This is as much a show of skill and arms as it is a morale crippling blow to the PCA. By our reckoning now, the sites will be well guarded, but they won't have a massive force there and draw attention. This is the chink in their armor, for now".
Sypher Whiteraven
player, 106 posts
Human
Paladin/Monk - Gestault
Sat 6 May 2017
at 14:29
  • msg #197

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Sypher nods, satisfied with the answer, but concerned about the situation at the capitol and the lake just the same.
Beloc S'Viscus
player, 143 posts
Wood Elf
Fighter/Druid - Gestault
Sat 6 May 2017
at 14:57
  • msg #198

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"I don't have any further questions other than when we should assemble in the morning?"
R.E.B.O.R.T.
Warforged, 27 posts
Fighter
Artificer
Sat 6 May 2017
at 14:58
  • msg #199

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"What is our expected ETA to the first site?"
Kallium Cairn
NPC, 13 posts
Wood Elf
Sat 6 May 2017
at 15:28
  • msg #200

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"We'll assemble everyone at the quarterdeck of the officer's barracks, bright and early. O' five hundred. From there, we'll take a short ride in a troop transport four hours north of here, where we'll then depart our armored transport and finish the five day trek via horseback. With any luck, we'll dodge any PCA along the way and be in the Argonette Forest without a hitch, and then on to Firewyrm Clan lands where we'll barter safe passage. I'll see to that leg of the trip personally though".
Beloc S'Viscus
player, 144 posts
Wood Elf
Fighter/Druid - Gestault
Sat 6 May 2017
at 15:36
  • msg #201

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"Have the tensions between the Canopy Shapers and Firewyrm clan died down any in the last decade? I would hope a common enemy such as the PCA would be somewhat of a tie that binds."
Kallium Cairn
NPC, 14 posts
Wood Elf
Sat 6 May 2017
at 16:16
  • msg #202

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"They have, and they haven't. We're still technically at odds with them, but the advent of war has made any issues between us and them trivial for the time. What I can say though, as that even the PCA don't dare tread on their lands. The Firewyrm Clan hasn't moved on in to our modern world. They still employ archers on horseback, they still use hit and run tactics, and they still hack their foes to pieces with axe and sword. The last PCA to be caught in the clan lands were all captured and executed via the "blood eagle" method. Though that's hardly dinner talk".
Beloc S'Viscus
player, 145 posts
Wood Elf
Fighter/Druid - Gestault
Sat 6 May 2017
at 16:51
  • msg #203

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Beloc shudders. "A good enough reason to stay out of their lands for sure. Perhaps using the angle of a common threat will have good enough success in bartering safe passage."
Grand Admiral Driggs
NPC, 10 posts
Human
Naval Officer
Sat 6 May 2017
at 18:38
  • msg #204

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Driggs raises his glass again. "Indeed. Now then, about that toas-". His sentence is cut short as the room shakes and rattles from a massive blast from somewhere outside of the building. Driggs drops his wine glass, spilling it over his plate. "Good Lord! What was that?!".
Sypher Whiteraven
player, 107 posts
Human
Paladin/Monk - Gestault
Sat 6 May 2017
at 18:54
  • msg #205

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Sypher and Shiaran are instantly on their feet, alert and ready for battle.  Shiaran has two daggers in hand.
Beloc S'Viscus
player, 146 posts
Wood Elf
Fighter/Druid - Gestault
Sat 6 May 2017
at 19:30
  • msg #206

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Beloc, unarmed and unprepared for battle, stands up and places himself between upper ranking officers.
R.E.B.O.R.T.
Warforged, 28 posts
Fighter
Artificer
Sat 6 May 2017
at 19:31
  • msg #207

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

R.E.B.O.R.T. swings a medium ranged rifle from off his right shoulder and quickly moves toward the door and peers out.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:55, Sat 06 May 2017.
Dungeon Master
GM, 165 posts
Roller of Dice
Giver of Trinkets
Sat 6 May 2017
at 21:48
  • msg #208

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Outside of the door, in the regular officer's mess, many more people are also on their feet, between the officers dining, the enlisted bards, and the wait staff. Some looking genuinely inquisitive, others appearing on the defensive, peering around nervously. The talk in the next room is a dull roar.
R.E.B.O.R.T.
Warforged, 29 posts
Fighter
Artificer
Sat 6 May 2017
at 22:26
  • msg #209

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

R.E.B.O.R.T. glances back to the others. "Clear. No hostiles present."
Sylas Glen
NPC, 41 posts
Admiral
Fildegarian Navy
Sun 7 May 2017
at 03:45
  • msg #210

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"I'll stay in here with the Grand Admiral. This room is well protected. Kallium, take the team and figure out what's happening. If there's trouble, don't hang around. Mission first".

Kallium Cairn nods. "Aye sir. Rebort, take point". He looks around and see's Shiaran holding her daggers. "Shiaran, on Reborts tail. We'll follow on your flank. Get us to the barracks, I have a feeling we need our gear".
Shiaran Whiteraven
player, 117 posts
Human
Wizard/Rogue Gestault
Sun 7 May 2017
at 04:44
  • msg #211

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Shiaran nods and follows. "See, this is why we should be allowed to be armed at dinner."  Her chiding words are aimed at no one in particular.
This message was last edited by the player at 04:45, Sun 07 May 2017.
Sypher Whiteraven
player, 108 posts
Human
Paladin/Monk - Gestault
Sun 7 May 2017
at 04:45
  • msg #212

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Sypher gives the officers one final look and anformal salute that serves as farewell, then is right behind Shiaran.
R.E.B.O.R.T.
Warforged, 30 posts
Fighter
Artificer
Sun 7 May 2017
at 14:39
  • msg #213

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"Proceed with caution. The blast caused significant damage to the windows, resulting in glass all over the floor."

R.E.B.O.R.T. gestures the others to follow inside while he hugs the right and makes his way to the first broken window. He peeks outside to the get lay of the land.
Dungeon Master
GM, 166 posts
Roller of Dice
Giver of Trinkets
Sun 7 May 2017
at 14:43
  • msg #214

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

As Rebort peeks out of the window, a shadowy figure lunges at him through the opening.

Reflex Save DC 16 to duck out of the way
Dungeon Master
GM, 167 posts
Roller of Dice
Giver of Trinkets
Sun 7 May 2017
at 14:54
  • msg #215

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Rebort is unprepared for the figure, and it sails through the window. A creature much like a ghoul flies through, shrieking. It catches Rebort off guard and wraps it's legs around his chest, attempting to dig claws and teeth into Reborts chassis at the same time. As it connects, it makes a sick slapping sound, and salt water flies from its body on to the rest of the party. The smell is almost immediate. It's a mixture of rotting fish and sea spray. Barnacles embedded in to its body scratch and scrap against the mithril and wood of Rebort's chest.

Shiaran recognizes this to be a lacedon, an aquatic form of ghoul.

Roll for initiative. Rebort is grappled
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:58, Sun 07 May 2017.
Beloc S'Viscus
player, 147 posts
Wood Elf
Fighter/Druid - Gestault
Sun 7 May 2017
at 14:58
  • msg #216

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

As an instinctual reflex to the commotion, the amulet around Beloc's neck comes to live. Four branch-like tendrils reach out and wrap themselves around his body. One over each shoulder and one towards each hip. They twist around each arm and leg framing his joints as the center of the amulet expands to cover his chest and back. Finally, as seen before, the newly formed plates extend to cover his head.

09:58, Today: Beloc S'Viscus rolled 4 using 1d20+3.  Initiative .

R.E.B.O.R.T.
Warforged, 31 posts
Fighter
Artificer
Sun 7 May 2017
at 14:59
  • msg #217

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

R.E.B.O.R.T. drops his rifle and begins to thrash and punch at the grappled assailant.

09:58, Today: R.E.B.O.R.T. rolled 6 using 1d20+4.  Initiative .

Sypher Whiteraven
player, 109 posts
Human
Paladin/Monk - Gestault
Sun 7 May 2017
at 15:53
  • msg #218

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Quick as a bolt, Sypher takes a step toward the golem and the ghoul.  His fist glows with righteous fury.  "BE GONE!"  He strikes in all his righteous fury, then follows immediately with another, regular palm strike.

Rebort's flailing about mitigate the strength of the Blows, though, and Sypher only manages glancing damage.  Sypher grimaced at his ineffectiveness.

Flurry of Blows @ -1/-1.  Take 10 for 18(Smite +3)/15.
1+3 Smite Evil damage.
1 HTH damage.
Total damage 4.

This message was last edited by the player at 15:53, Sun 07 May 2017.
Shiaran Whiteraven
player, 118 posts
Human
Wizard/Rogue Gestault
Sun 7 May 2017
at 15:59
  • msg #219

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Shiaran maneuvers around Rebort and finds an opportunity to strike with her dagger.  The dagger plunges in deep and retracts with trailing black ichor.

As the dagger comes out, Shiaran calls out to Beloc.  "'Ware the window!"

Take 10 + 6 = 16 to hit (flanking).
1d4+2d6 (4,4,1) = 9 damage.

This message was last edited by the player at 16:00, Sun 07 May 2017.
Dungeon Master
GM, 168 posts
Roller of Dice
Giver of Trinkets
Sun 7 May 2017
at 17:23
  • msg #220

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

The lacedon drops from Reborts back, golden light shining on his back from Sypher's attack, and black blood oozing from Shiaran's stab. It arches and flails its limbs from the pain. It shrieks again, this time a different pitch and length, before going rigid and still.

Outside the window, a dozen or more shrieks echo..

In the mean time, the officers in the room have all started scrambling for the door.

Gun fire begins to erupt, echoing off the walls of the yard. It's hard to pinpoint which direction it comes from, though it's definitely more than a single person firing.
R.E.B.O.R.T.
Warforged, 32 posts
Fighter
Artificer
Sun 7 May 2017
at 17:30
  • msg #221

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

R.E.B.O.R.T. picks up his rifle and puts a single round into the lacedon's forehead for good measure.

He looks back to the rest of the group. "Mind the windows", and proceeds to the next window to make sure another surprise doesn't pop out.
Beloc S'Viscus
player, 148 posts
Wood Elf
Fighter/Druid - Gestault
Sun 7 May 2017
at 17:30
  • msg #222

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Beloc, now armored but still unarmed, lags behind to make sure the door to the admiral's private mess hall is secured.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:56, Sun 07 May 2017.
Sypher Whiteraven
player, 110 posts
Human
Paladin/Monk - Gestault
Sun 7 May 2017
at 19:24
  • msg #223

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"Over a dozen...maybe fourteen, coming down the walls outside.  Headed for this window."  Sypher looks over at Shiaran then back at the door where the officers are.
Shiaran Whiteraven
player, 119 posts
Human
Wizard/Rogue Gestault
Sun 7 May 2017
at 19:31
  • msg #224

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Shiaran nods curtly once.  "Rebort.  You have sniper position.  Find a good spot to cover that window.  Don't forget the others.  Protect the officers.  Beloc, back Sypher up.  He's got point."

She steps next to Sypher and takes his hands in hers.  "Apergía me apókryfes dýnami."  Sypher's hands glow with a bright purple arcane light for a moment, then the light fades to almost nothing.  Then she steps next to Rebort to defend him while he snipes.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:33, Sun 07 May 2017.
R.E.B.O.R.T.
Warforged, 33 posts
Fighter
Artificer
Sun 7 May 2017
at 20:01
  • msg #225

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

R.E.B.O.R.T. moves to the wall opposite the windows and puts his back against it. He takes a knee and raises his rifle to eye level. "Ready."
Beloc S'Viscus
player, 149 posts
Wood Elf
Fighter/Druid - Gestault
Sun 7 May 2017
at 20:13
  • msg #226

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Beloc moves into position near the windows and places himself between the far right and middle window. He places his back against the wall and waits for the first intruder to pop through.
Dungeon Master
GM, 169 posts
Roller of Dice
Giver of Trinkets
Sun 7 May 2017
at 22:08
  • msg #227

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Three more lacedons come crawling through the window. BLAM! ting-shhtck. BLAM! ting-shhtck. BLAM! ting-shhtck. Each one has its head split open as Rebort fires with pinpoint accuracy and racks the bolt back on his rifle, loading a new round.

Angry, guttural voices hiss and jeer at one another outside of the window, and out of sight.

Sypher through Sense Evil, and Rebort through Sense Undead, can both tell the remainder of the group outside the window has halted for the moment.
R.E.B.O.R.T.
Warforged, 34 posts
Fighter
Artificer
Mon 8 May 2017
at 02:35
  • msg #228

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"Their advance seems to have stopped, for the moment. We should go before they regroup."

R.E.B.O.R.T. glances over at the barred down to the admiral's private table. "No need to worry about them. The magical wards alone would keep these creatures at bay."
This message was last edited by the player at 04:17, Mon 08 May 2017.
Shiaran Whiteraven
player, 120 posts
Human
Wizard/Rogue Gestault
Mon 8 May 2017
at 03:42
  • msg #229

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"Then let's move."  Shiaran waits for Sypher to lead the group down the hall, headed for the Barracks and their much needed gear.
Dungeon Master
GM, 170 posts
Roller of Dice
Giver of Trinkets
Mon 8 May 2017
at 09:22
  • msg #230

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

As the group exits from the officer's mess, a mass exodus of men with a handful of women follow behind them. At the half wall dividing the hallway from the enlisted mess, a scene of carnage is beginning to form. Several marines and sailors already lay dead or dying, vicious bite and claw wounds to their bodies. The marines are no pushovers though. Armed with steak knives, lunch trays, metal chairs, and more, several lacedons lay among the dead as well, beaten to a black pulp. More can be seen outside the broken windows, gauging their chances of success at entering the space. Outside there is an orange glow. The gunfire has become more rapid, and much heavier in volume. Several stray shots crack from outside sending puffs of drywall dust flying as they strike randomly in the mess hall. One sailor is struck in the chest by a stray bullet and drops hard. Some of the lacedon's silhouettes can be seen scrambling in scattered directions against the orange background. Many more service men who aren't actively engaged in fighting the current foes in the room drop low, crouching or going prone.

One of the bards from the officer's mess signals the other 4, and they hop over the half wall to begin bolstering their allies.
This message was last edited by the GM at 10:25, Mon 08 May 2017.
Sypher Whiteraven
player, 111 posts
Human
Paladin/Monk - Gestault
Mon 8 May 2017
at 10:21
  • msg #231

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Grim faces, Sypher realizes they will save more lives better equipped.  He breaks into a sprint for the barracks, quickly outpacing even Shiaran who follows athe her own dead sprint.
Beloc S'Viscus
player, 150 posts
Wood Elf
Fighter/Druid - Gestault
Mon 8 May 2017
at 13:04
  • msg #232

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Beloc suppresses the urge to stop and heal the wounded in the mess hall and continues on. He keeps pace with Shiaran as Sypher pulls ahead.

Behind him, R.E.B.O.R.T. lays down some suppression fire to keep the nasties at bay while they head for the barracks.
Dungeon Master
GM, 171 posts
Roller of Dice
Giver of Trinkets
Mon 8 May 2017
at 22:09
  • msg #233

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

As the group breeches the door out of the mess hall, the shouts, screaming, shrieks, and gunfire are exceptionally louder. The armory building is a ball of fire, and the southern portion of the officers barracks looks to be damaged and on fire as well, but from the angle the group is running, no one can completely make heads or tails. Twice more Rebort puts down a rogue lacedon, one of them leaping at Sypher's flank as he trails ahead of the group. Shiaran score several more to ribbons. The sun has gone down low enough that it doesn't peak over the twenty foot high walls anymore, and the main courtyard of the base is growing dim, save for the direction of what used to be the armory.

Sypher is the first to burst through the doors of the quarterdeck of the officer's barracks. The marines inside have flipped over desks and taken up fighting positions behind them. The remainder of the party enters seconds behind him. Once beyond the quarterdeck, the hallway splits off left and right. Shiaran, Beloc, and Sypher's rooms were in a row to the right, midway down the long hallway. At the end of the hallway, it's quite clear that the blast from the armory blew out the south side of the barracks as well. Flames roar where the entrance to the staircase should be at the end of the hall, and the glow of the armory beyond the hole where a side door should be illuminates the hallway brighter than any crystal.

Kallium cuts left, yelling orders. "Grab your gear, suit up, and meet back at the quarterdeck, one minute!". He races down his hallway to his room.
R.E.B.O.R.T.
Warforged, 35 posts
Fighter
Artificer
Mon 8 May 2017
at 23:17
  • msg #234

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

R.E.B.O.R.T. comes in last as he loads another magazine into his rifle. "Retrieve your belongings, I'll cover the hallway."

He locks the magazine into place and begins to monitor the hallway.
Beloc S'Viscus
player, 151 posts
Wood Elf
Fighter/Druid - Gestault
Mon 8 May 2017
at 23:18
  • msg #235

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Beloc cuts right and races down the hallway to his room. Shoulder first, he bursts into his room grabbing his weapons first, then his shield.
This message was last edited by the player at 00:24, Tue 09 May 2017.
Sypher Whiteraven
player, 112 posts
Human
Paladin/Monk - Gestault
Mon 8 May 2017
at 23:38
  • msg #236

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Sypher and Shiaran, already dressed and ready for the trip 'tomorrow', grab all their gear by the door and are in the hallway in less than half a minute.
Dungeon Master
GM, 172 posts
Roller of Dice
Giver of Trinkets
Tue 9 May 2017
at 00:20
  • msg #237

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

As the trio races back to the quarterdeck, Sypher and Rebort both sense a sizeable handful of the enemy bearing down on the front door. The doors are closed, and the two marines on watch are hunkered down, but only wielding pistols.
Sypher Whiteraven
player, 113 posts
Human
Paladin/Monk - Gestault
Tue 9 May 2017
at 01:04
  • msg #238

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"Large group bearing down on the door."  Sypher moves in toward the Marines.  "Gentlemen, would you mind moving back to support while I take point?"  He draws his sabre and faces the door in a relaxed stance.
Shiaran Whiteraven
player, 121 posts
Human
Wizard/Rogue Gestault
Tue 9 May 2017
at 01:07
  • msg #239

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"Beloc, you're Sypher's second up front.  Rebort, sniper."  Shiaran draws her shuriken and stands off to the side of Rebort, ready to fend off any one who gets by the tanks before they reach the golem.
R.E.B.O.R.T.
Warforged, 36 posts
Fighter
Artificer
Tue 9 May 2017
at 01:13
  • msg #240

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

R.E.B.O.R.T. backs up with Shiaran and readies his rifle.
This message was last edited by the player at 01:25, Tue 09 May 2017.
Beloc S'Viscus
player, 152 posts
Wood Elf
Fighter/Druid - Gestault
Tue 9 May 2017
at 01:26
  • msg #241

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Beloc draws his new falchion and positions himself on the opposite of the door from Sypher. His new shield floats beside him acting as an automated barrier.
Dungeon Master
GM, 173 posts
Roller of Dice
Giver of Trinkets
Tue 9 May 2017
at 01:31
  • msg #242

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Six lacedons come crashing through the windows and door way, shrieking their horrible noise as they scurry.

Ranged Phase. Anyone who can shoot (or throw) is free to designate a target and fire within the rulesets of your respective weapon. Remember, shooting multiple targets requires multiple base attack bonuses, not the weapon conferred additional attacks that equal to trigger pulls".
Shiaran Whiteraven
player, 122 posts
Human
Wizard/Rogue Gestault
Tue 9 May 2017
at 01:46
  • msg #243

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Shiaran grimaces at her shuriken, drops them and pulls out her pistols.  She opens fire on any lacedon not coming through the door.  Still unfamiliar with the weapons, she does minimal damage to the creature.
R.E.B.O.R.T.
Warforged, 37 posts
Fighter
Artificer
Tue 9 May 2017
at 01:56
  • msg #244

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

R.E.B.O.R.T. fires off at the first creature that pushes through the door. The shot strikes it in the center of the chest, blowing a large hole straight through it. The sheer force of the blast sends it flying back out the door.


20:52, Today: R.E.B.O.R.T. rolled 19 using 2d10.  Damage vs. Lacedon.
20:46, Today: R.E.B.O.R.T. rolled 14 using 1d20+7.  Rifle attack vs. lacedon.

Shiaran Whiteraven
player, 123 posts
Human
Wizard/Rogue Gestault
Tue 9 May 2017
at 01:59
  • msg #245

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Shiaran looks at the spot where the lacedon was, over at Rebort, then down at her guns and frowns.
Dungeon Master
GM, 174 posts
Roller of Dice
Giver of Trinkets
Tue 9 May 2017
at 15:08
  • msg #246

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

The two hunkered down marines fire at targets as well, wounding, but not killing one of the lacedons.

Battle Order
Lacedon #2 [DEAD]
Sypher
Shiaran
Beloc
Rebort
Lacedon #4[DEAD]
Lacedon #5[DEAD]

Marine #1
Marine #2

Lacedon #3 [7 DMG]
Lacedon #1 [9 DMG]

Lacedon #2 swipes at Sypher as it crashes through the window and takes a hit from the marine. The attack is sloppy, and Sypher easily avoids it.
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:05, Wed 10 May 2017.
Sypher Whiteraven
player, 114 posts
Human
Paladin/Monk - Gestault
Tue 9 May 2017
at 21:02
  • msg #247

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Sypher's blade ignites in white fire.  He ignores the lacedon shot by Shiaran and focuses on the one uninjured yet.  His blade slashes across it's torso from hip to opposing shoulder in a single smooth stroke.  The creature is shorn completely in half, both of which catch fire and incinerate before they hit the ground.

Sypher steps back into a ready position.
Shiaran Whiteraven
player, 124 posts
Human
Wizard/Rogue Gestault
Tue 9 May 2017
at 21:09
  • msg #248

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Shiaran raises the pistols again and gives them another try.  Without flinching she fires off two shots at the monster she hit previously, the one bearing down on her brother.  Both shots hit dead center mass in succession, causing the torso to explode backward in a shower of gore.

She looks at her guns again as she rotates them along the barrel, giving them a second appraisal.  She smiles and nods.
Beloc S'Viscus
player, 153 posts
Wood Elf
Fighter/Druid - Gestault
Wed 10 May 2017
at 02:23
  • msg #249

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

The first within Beloc's range is the lacedon (L4) that comes charging in through the window. He swings high, aiming for the head, and strikes hard. His new falchion quickly removes its head from its shoulders and the momentum carries the blade around in a semi-circle. Before the head hits the ground, his blade bites into the lacedon (L3) coming through the door. He cuts a clean black like across its torso, and it falls motionless to the ground.

21:05, Today: Beloc S'Viscus rolled 11 using 2d4+5.  Damage on L3 (cleave).
21:04, Today: Beloc S'Viscus rolled 13 using 2d4+5.  Damage on L4.

This message was last edited by the player at 13:10, Wed 10 May 2017.
R.E.B.O.R.T.
Warforged, 38 posts
Fighter
Artificer
Wed 10 May 2017
at 02:30
  • msg #250

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

R.E.B.O.R.T. draws a bead on the ghoul climbing in the far right window. The awkward movements of it lumbering through and his shot wings it in the shoulder rather than a clean shot to the chest.

21:24, Today: R.E.B.O.R.T. rolled 9 using 2d10.  Damage on L1.

This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 13:09, Wed 10 May 2017.
Dungeon Master
GM, 176 posts
Roller of Dice
Giver of Trinkets
Wed 10 May 2017
at 14:06
  • msg #251

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

The two marines take aim and make short work of the remaining lacedon before it can manage to even realize what's happening.

Kallium comes barreling around the corner with his full kit, suited up. He takes one glance at the carnage in the quarterdeck and nods. "Lacedons. Aquatic ghasts. Perfect for entering stealthily into a navy yard. This can't be the only thing on its way here. This is a skirmish force, meant to soften the base. I don't know what this place faces in the coming hour, but it wont be small. The PCA doesn't just toss troops at a target to poke us in the eye, they always mean business. This area is no longer safe. We have to get to the motor pool and evacuate. The marines here can hold out for a time, maybe even repel this".

Secondary explosions outside rock the officer's barracks. "The munitions inside of the armory are starting to cook off. You two, marines. Get out of here, rally with whoever you can find, and get to the mess hall. The admirals are holed up in the Admiral's Table. Move!".

The two marines bark out an "Aye, sir!" and quickly take to their feet. They pause to peer out of the door, and sprint off in to the dim evening. "Shiaran, on point. Beloc, with her. Sypher and Rebort, watch our flanks. I'll watch the rear. Head to the main gate, straight out of this door and across parade grounds. Don't stop if we don't have to, I-". A third and massive explosion cracks and splinters to wood and plaster walls of the room. "Lets go!".
Shiaran Whiteraven
player, 125 posts
Human
Wizard/Rogue Gestault
Wed 10 May 2017
at 17:45
  • msg #252

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Shiaran holsters her guns and draws her sword.  If she's going to take point, melee is the most likely thing to kill her.  She moves out at a cautious run, scanning as she goes.
Sypher Whiteraven
player, 115 posts
Human
Paladin/Monk - Gestault
Wed 10 May 2017
at 17:46
  • msg #253

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Sypher positions himself about three yards behind Shiaran, alert and looking in all directions including up as he follows at the same pace.
Beloc S'Viscus
player, 154 posts
Wood Elf
Fighter/Druid - Gestault
Thu 11 May 2017
at 01:06
  • msg #254

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Beloc snatches his shield from the air and takes off with Shiaran. He does his best to keep a step or two ahead in order to intercept anything attempting to slow them down, but with her exceptional speed, he can only manage to just keep up.
R.E.B.O.R.T.
Warforged, 39 posts
Fighter
Artificer
Thu 11 May 2017
at 01:07
  • msg #255

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

R.E.B.O.R.T. exits the building and trails behind Sypher by a few paces, rifle in the ready position to quickly fire at any incoming hostiles.
Dungeon Master
GM, 177 posts
Roller of Dice
Giver of Trinkets
Thu 11 May 2017
at 11:13
  • msg #256

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Outside the fighting has intensified. To the marine's credit, they've managed to get geared up and rally quickly. A team of 12 is actively fighting off the dead outside of the mess hall, and muzzle flashes spew hot lead from up high on the walls of the yard. Off in the distance, towards town, the sounds.of fighting can be heard as well. An outright melee of marines, sailors, and undead rages in every direction. You pass by dead and dying on both side, grousome wounds cover the fallen. The majority of the marines and sailors who've met their end still have their bodies relatively in tact. The wounds focus primary to the throat and neck areas of many.

In front of the group, two lacedons chewing on a body catch notice of your movement and make a dash towards you, while 4 more come at the rear. Two on the left flank, three on the right. Each is somewhere around 50 foot away.

You may freely attack any of your aggressors. Please keep posts turn based to give all members of the party a chance to act before you make a second action, if any
Shiaran Whiteraven
player, 126 posts
Human
Wizard/Rogue Gestault
Thu 11 May 2017
at 12:26
  • msg #257

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Shiaran, who stands on the left of Beloc, engages the first of those lacedon's approaching from the front.  Her blade glows with chilling blue anti-fire and slashes almost casually at the monster's gut.  The wound is deep, almost slicing the thing in half as the ice begins to form from the wound.
Sypher Whiteraven
player, 116 posts
Human
Paladin/Monk - Gestault
Thu 11 May 2017
at 12:28
  • msg #258

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Sypher maintains a fighting distance from the others in his group.  He waits for the ghouls to come to him to keep from getting separated from the four others with him.  However, his blade glows with the white-gold of righteous fire, a fire reflected in his eyes.
Beloc S'Viscus
player, 155 posts
Wood Elf
Fighter/Druid - Gestault
Thu 11 May 2017
at 13:02
  • msg #259

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Beloc remains at Shiaran's side, so to speak. Seeing her fighting style a few times already, he maneuvers himself to allow her a flanking position to maximize her potential. He strikes at the last remaining lacedon of the two. The cut is deep, but not enough to fell the foe.

08:00, Today: Beloc S'Viscus rolled 8 using 2d4+5.  Damage vs. lacedon.

R.E.B.O.R.T.
Warforged, 40 posts
Fighter
Artificer
Thu 11 May 2017
at 13:08
  • msg #260

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

R.E.B.O.R.T. drops to a knee, a few paces behind Sypher, putting the man wielding the fiery blade between him and the approaching ghouls. He takes at at one of the lacedons from the group of three, and fires.  The shot catches it just below the jaw, and subsequently takes the head clean off. The body flies backwards tumbling end over end until comes to a stop a good ten feet back.

Quickly, he pushes a new round into the chamber with a single deft action.

08:05, Today: R.E.B.O.R.T. rolled 20 using 2d10.  Damage vs. lacedon.

This message was last edited by the player at 13:09, Thu 11 May 2017.
Kallium Cairn
NPC, 15 posts
Wood Elf
Thu 11 May 2017
at 15:27
  • msg #261

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Kallium calls out "More to the rear!. He mutters while flourishing out a hand, and a wave a red light outlined in black radiates from his palm. It encompasses the incoming lacedons.

Kallium casts bane. 50ft radius. 4 minute duration. All enemies take -1 to attack rolls
Dungeon Master
GM, 178 posts
Roller of Dice
Giver of Trinkets
Fri 12 May 2017
at 00:11
  • msg #262

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Beloc wounds the lacedon left in the front of the group, leaving a large slash of black across its gut, threatening to spill its intestines out. It swings a clawed hand and connects with him, sliding slender fingers between the armor plates under his armpit. It deals [9 DMG] from its strike, sending a spurt of blood down Beloc's arm.

The group to the left flank descends on Sypher. His blade sings as flame and steel find their mark, and bisects the first lacedon from crown to groin. The remaining lacedon crashes in to him, and manages to bite down hard on his forearm. It deals [7 DMG]. Sypher manages to jerk his arm away from the foul creature, sending one of its snagged teeth flying. It lets out a grunt, but is otherwise unphased. Syphers years of training as a monk allow him to shrug off the potential of paralysis from the lacedons attack.

The three lacedons approaching from the right rapidly become two, thanks to Rebort's expert marksmanship. They tackle him, biting at his metal and wood frame. They aren't engaged in a full on grapple, but one manages to bite a sizable chunk from the woodwork comprising the pectoral area of Rebort's chest, dealing [7 DMG]

The four to the rear fall upon Kallium like an angry mob, gnashing and clawing. They aren't prepared for just how spry the wood elf major is, as he ducks and dodges his way around the group with relative ease, his spellwork aiding his defense.
Shiaran Whiteraven
player, 127 posts
Human
Wizard/Rogue Gestault
Fri 12 May 2017
at 00:22
  • msg #263

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Shiaran swings around to the Lacedon that attacked Beloc, removing it's head with a double-handed swing.  Then she turn to face Sypher and assess his situation.
Sypher Whiteraven
player, 117 posts
Human
Paladin/Monk - Gestault
Fri 12 May 2017
at 00:31
  • msg #264

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Sypher uses the momentum of jerking his arm away to do a one-eighty reverse thrust of this sword into the Lacedon's back.  His sword plunges deep, disintegrating ribs and what remains of organs as the golden fire and shining blade burst forth in a a fiery, gorey explosion out the front of the monster.  Sypher is careful to withdraw the blade through the side instead of back out the entry wound, ensuring that the lacedon does not get back up.

Then he looks around to see who needs the most aid.  He nods once to Shiaran then his eyes come to rest on Kallium's furball.
Beloc S'Viscus
player, 156 posts
Wood Elf
Fighter/Druid - Gestault
Fri 12 May 2017
at 00:37
  • msg #265

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

The dismembered head bounces off the floating shield in front of Beloc and skitters to the ground. He grins heartily at Shiaran and takes off running towards the larger group of ghouls surrounding Kallium.

He sets his sights on the closest one and attacks with a leaping overhead strike. The blow sheers off its right arm. It hits the ground with a sickening plop.

19:35, Today: Beloc S'Viscus rolled 10 using 2d4+5.  Damage vs. Lacedon in rear flank.

This message was last edited by the player at 00:42, Fri 12 May 2017.
R.E.B.O.R.T.
Warforged, 41 posts
Fighter
Artificer
Fri 12 May 2017
at 00:54
  • msg #266

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

The impact of the two ghouls into R.E.B.O.R.T. sends his rifle clattering to the ground. In response, he takes a small step back and raises both arms. One pointed at each ghoul. Within a blink of an eye, plates on each forearm peel back and bits of metal plating, tubes, and springs quickly assemble themselves into what looks like highly modified and streamlined version of the standard issue RG-1422. Anchored to each wrist, multiple shots ring out. Two in each target.

The first two shots hit the first ghoul square in the chest, killing it outright. Clearly affected by the pain registering in his pectoral, the last two shots, however, fly wide in a pair of glances wounds.

19:47, Today: R.E.B.O.R.T. rolled (8) 5,3 using 2d4+1,2d4+1.  Damage vs. Lacedon 2.
19:46, Today: R.E.B.O.R.T. rolled (14) 8,6 using 2d4+1,2d4+1.  Damage vs. Lacedon 1.

This message was last edited by the player at 01:18, Fri 12 May 2017.
Kallium Cairn
NPC, 16 posts
Wood Elf
Fri 12 May 2017
at 01:14
  • msg #267

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Kallium rapidly draws a pistol from the breast of his coat, and squeezes off two rounds point blank into the eye socket of the lacedon in front of him. It crumples in to a heap.
Dungeon Master
GM, 179 posts
Roller of Dice
Giver of Trinkets
Fri 12 May 2017
at 01:25
  • msg #268

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

With the front and left flank clear, that leaves a single wounded lacedon attacking Rebort, and 3 lacedons still harrassing Kallium.

The lacedon attacking Rebort makes a pathetic attempt to grapple him. Rebort has the upper hand easily.

The three on Kallium lunge at once. The presumable smartest of the three feigns going high and then drops down, sinking his teeth in to Kalllium's thigh.

Everyone roll perception at disadvantage
Shiaran Whiteraven
player, 128 posts
Human
Wizard/Rogue Gestault
Fri 12 May 2017
at 02:05
  • msg #269

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Shiaran dashes over to Kallium and whips her sword around in a vicious slice to the ghoul's waist.  The thing falls into two halves which thunk against the ground as frozen blocks of rotted meat.

"Look sharp!  We have company from the south.  It's big and closing fast."  She speaks with a commanding voice to be heard above the melee, but it is not quite a shout.
Sypher Whiteraven
player, 118 posts
Human
Paladin/Monk - Gestault
Fri 12 May 2017
at 02:10
  • msg #270

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Sypher follows Shiaran's strike with a blazing overhead strike of his own, literally disintegrating a lacedon, leaving only a pair of smoking legs from the thighs down.  He glances south, but is focused on the last of the ghouls engaging his unit at the moment.  One problem at a time.  Deal with the here and now, first.  His monk training keeps him calm and properly directed with his ki.
Beloc S'Viscus
player, 157 posts
Wood Elf
Fighter/Druid - Gestault
Fri 12 May 2017
at 02:21
  • msg #271

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Beloc follows up his previous strike with a low sweeping slash, removing the ghouls legs at the knees. What's left of the monster slides to the ground twitching awkwardly. His momentum carries through to the last remaining lacedon, cutting deep gashes across both its legs as well.

21:16, Today: Beloc S'Viscus rolled 10 using 2d4+5.  Damage vs. lacedon 2.
21:14, Today: Beloc S'Viscus rolled 10 using 2d4+5.  Damage vs. lacedon.

R.E.B.O.R.T.
Warforged, 42 posts
Fighter
Artificer
Fri 12 May 2017
at 02:34
  • msg #272

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

As sypher downs the last ghoul attacking R.E.B.O.R.T, his pistols recede back into the compartments in his forearms and he picks his rifle back up.

"Target acquired."

He turns to face the large skeleton closing in on the group and fires. Bits of bones fly off at the bullet strikes one of its ribs.


21:32, Today: R.E.B.O.R.T. rolled 10 using 2d10.  Damage on giant skeleton.
21:29, Today: R.E.B.O.R.T. rolled 25 using 1d20+10.  Attack on giant skeleton.

Kallium Cairn
NPC, 17 posts
Wood Elf
Fri 12 May 2017
at 10:47
  • msg #273

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"Not good, not good! They reanimated a reef giant! Steel yourselves, take care the lacedons don't flank us" Kallium barks as he fells the remaining lacedon assaulting him with two more point blank shots.
Dungeon Master
GM, 180 posts
Roller of Dice
Giver of Trinkets
Fri 12 May 2017
at 13:52
  • msg #274

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

In the courtyard, more and more lacedons are appearing. Scurrying around the sides of buildings, dragging away dead and dying soldiers, while others feast on the fallen. The reef giant skeleton barrels forward, eating away 50 foot of the gap between himself and the party, leaving only 20 foot til he gets there. Though the trident he carries looks like it could easily span 15 foot ahead of him. He makes no sound other than the loud rattling of his joints. He has his eyeless gaze set on Rebort.
Shiaran Whiteraven
player, 129 posts
Human
Wizard/Rogue Gestault
Fri 12 May 2017
at 14:10
  • msg #275

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"Right leg."  Shiaran keeps her sword out to address the lesser undead swarming the area.  She steps to the north, glancing backward, but keeping an eye on the incoming giant.
Sypher Whiteraven
player, 119 posts
Human
Paladin/Monk - Gestault
Fri 12 May 2017
at 14:21
  • msg #276

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Sypher does not wait.  He charges the giant, but spends most of his mental energy on avoiding attacks.  His target is the right leg.  Using his typical caution, he swings, but the sword can't cut through the barnacles and coral that comprise the giant's armor.
Beloc S'Viscus
player, 158 posts
Wood Elf
Fighter/Druid - Gestault
Fri 12 May 2017
at 21:29
  • msg #277

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Beloc sticks with Shiaran to make sure she is less likely to get swarmed as well as to provide flanking opportunities.
R.E.B.O.R.T.
Warforged, 43 posts
Fighter
Artificer
Fri 12 May 2017
at 21:35
  • msg #278

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Upon hearing direction from Shiaran, R.E.B.O.R.T. chambers another round. "Confirmed!"

He recognizes the need to resolve this quickly, and rather than fire another shot, he quickly traces out runes upon his plated chest. The gem embedded in his chest glows brilliantly for a moment, and his movements almost appear to blur as the magic takes hold.

R.E.B.O.R.T. inscribes runes of Haste upon himself.
Dungeon Master
GM, 181 posts
Roller of Dice
Giver of Trinkets
Fri 12 May 2017
at 22:50
  • msg #279

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

The massive skeleton stays true to his target, and swats Rebort with his trident, using the tines of the polearm to act as a racket. Rebort is flung 10 foot side ways, and cuts a full flip. He takes [10 DMG] from the blow. His reflexes are sharp, and he manages to land in a kneeling position, sliding along for another 5 foot. He avoids further damage with the save. The giant skeleton halts his momentum and digs into the soft grass, pivoting to face Rebort. It hisses loudly at seeing his target is still standing.
R.E.B.O.R.T.
Warforged, 44 posts
Fighter
Artificer
Sat 13 May 2017
at 21:57
  • msg #280

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

R.E.B.O.R.T's enhanced reflexes not only kept him upright but also sped up his reaction time. From his current position, he snaps the rifle up to eye level and draws a bead on the skeleton's right leg.

The first shot connects but seems to be somewhat of a glancing blow on the upper right leg. Before the giant can react, R.E.B.O.R.T's already got the next round chambered and pulls the trigger a second time. More shards of bone go flying as it hits the lower right leg.

16:52, Today: R.E.B.O.R.T. rolled 15 using 2d10+1. Damage vs. Reef giant.
16:52, Today: R.E.B.O.R.T. rolled 9 using 2d10+1.  Damage vs. Reef giant.

Sypher Whiteraven
player, 120 posts
Human
Paladin/Monk - Gestault
Sat 13 May 2017
at 22:16
  • msg #281

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Sypher tries to keep up with the giant's ground-eating stride.  He fails even with his own faster-than-normal ground speed, he gets close enough to scrape coral with his sword and no more.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:18, Sat 13 May 2017.
Shiaran Whiteraven
player, 130 posts
Human
Wizard/Rogue Gestault
Sat 13 May 2017
at 22:17
  • msg #282

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Shiaran scans around for lacedons, keeping one eye on the giant and her distance from it.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:18, Sat 13 May 2017.
Beloc S'Viscus
player, 159 posts
Wood Elf
Fighter/Druid - Gestault
Sat 13 May 2017
at 22:35
  • msg #283

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Beloc holds his ground with Shiaran. With no ghouls in the immediate vicinity, he conjures a ball of fire that encapsulates his fist and hurls it at the giant skeleton. The night sky is lit up briefly as it streaks over to its target.

Beloc casts Produce Flame.
17:33, Today: Beloc S'Viscus rolled 7 using 1d6+3.  Fire damage on reef giant.

Kallium Cairn
NPC, 18 posts
Wood Elf
Sun 14 May 2017
at 00:00
  • msg #284

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Kallium moves adjacent to Shiaran. "Cover me" he says. He drops to one knee, clasping his hands together again. A golden light forms an aura around him, and it radiates outward. All members of the party, including the giant skeleton are irradiated with the golden light. The party members gain a golden aura as well. The effects do not hamper vision in anyway, in fact each of you cant even notice your own personal aura. They auras give off no light around you. The giant skeleton gets a massive red aura, that matches his size and stature. He quickly turns his gaze to Kallium. "That should be a boon to us, and a bane to him" he calls out, loud enough for everyone to hear. The auras silently fade away, but the spell takes hold of everyone it touches.

Kallium casts Prayer. Allies gain +1 luck bonus to Attack Rolls, Damage Rolls, Saves, and Skill Checks. The giant skeleton gains a -1 in the same areas. Duration for all: 5 rounds
Dungeon Master
GM, 182 posts
Roller of Dice
Giver of Trinkets
Sun 14 May 2017
at 00:06
  • msg #285

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

With the commotion of the fighting going on, 6 more lacedons have taken notice and started making their way there. Each is around 60 foot away. Shiaran notices them, as they travel in a pack from the West.

The giant skeleton rears back his trident, and hurls it at Kallium. Kallium jumps up to try and get away, but the trident impales him with all three tines. One in the shoulder, one mid chest, and one in his gut. It sends him flying backwards 10 foot before coming to a halt, as the tines poking out of his back dig deep into the dirt. He lets out a blood choked cough as he hits the ground, weakly squirming and writhing, not quite knowing what to do at this point. A look of pure terror is painted on his face.
Shiaran Whiteraven
player, 131 posts
Human
Wizard/Rogue Gestault
Sun 14 May 2017
at 00:33
  • msg #286

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Shiaran, barely catching the horrible event with Kallium out of the corner of an eye, draws a single gun and moves a little closer.  She takes aim at a Lacedon head.  The shot's ring out and the head rocks back with the shot, but it is not quite enough to kill the thing.
This message was last edited by the player at 00:34, Sun 14 May 2017.
Sypher Whiteraven
player, 121 posts
Human
Paladin/Monk - Gestault
Sun 14 May 2017
at 00:45
  • msg #287

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"NO!" Sypher uses the giant's momentary pause to throw its trident as an opportunity for a solid hit to it's shin.  The fire and the blade bite into the bone and remove a chunk, but nothing that would slow the thing down.
This message was last edited by the player at 00:54, Sun 14 May 2017.
Beloc S'Viscus
player, 160 posts
Wood Elf
Fighter/Druid - Gestault
Sun 14 May 2017
at 03:16
  • msg #288

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Beloc has witnessed many horrifying things on the battlefield, but this one probably ranks up there pretty high. With the threat of their only lead into the foray dying before the mission even started, he plants in falchion in the ground and falls to his knees. He places his hands firmly on the ground and calls upon the Glen Warden.

"Stop these abominations in their tracks!" (spoken in druidic)

A brown and green haze rises up around him as several vine-like tendrils race out from his hands out toward the ghouls. Amidst the ranks of the incoming ghouls, large vines spring out of the ground, grasping and whipping around at them.

He stands and looks over to Shiaran. "I can stop the bleeding, but I'll need an extra pair of hands to deal with that trident."

He rushes over to Kallium, who still squirms futilely against the weapon pinning him to the ground. "You're not going to let a little pitchfork slow you down, are you?" He says, trying to draw Kallium's focus away from the predicament.

Beloc invokes Grasping Vines from the Plate of the Glen Warden, centered between the two groups of ghouls heading toward them.
R.E.B.O.R.T.
Warforged, 45 posts
Fighter
Artificer
Sun 14 May 2017
at 03:25
  • msg #289

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

R.E.B.O.R.T. watches Kallium fly through the air. His expressionless face turns back to the boney giant and takes aim for two more shots.

His continued barrage on the right leg is unrelenting. Both shots, a direct hit on the knee joint.

After the last shot, he ejects the expended magazine, and begins to reach for a fresh one from a hidden compartment in his hip.

22:19, Today: R.E.B.O.R.T. rolled 15 using 2d10+2.  Damage vs. Reef giant.
22:19, Today: R.E.B.O.R.T. rolled 21 using 2d10+2.  Damage vs. Reef giant.

Kallium Cairn
NPC, 19 posts
Wood Elf
Sun 14 May 2017
at 03:35
  • msg #290

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Blood runs from Kallium's mouth, staining his teeth red. "T-take..book. In p-pack" he chokes out. He is unable to act or move beyond weak speech. He looks at the giant skeleton, and his eyes grow wide with fear.
Dungeon Master
GM, 183 posts
Roller of Dice
Giver of Trinkets
Sun 14 May 2017
at 03:49
  • msg #291

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

The giant skeleton's knee is completely destroyed by the last volley Rebort sent his way. It would almost be comical, were the situation not so dire, to watch the giant hop on one leg. He moves at a quarter of the speed he charged in with, and closes in on Kallium, ignoring the party members in close proximity to him. He hefts up the trident, Kallium still attached, and raises it like a javelin once more. He chucks the trident at Rebort, with the impaled Kallium flopping like a rag doll. The added weight of Kallium's body slows the point blank throw. Rebort has just enough time to side step the massive projectile. Kallium's screams come to an abrupt halt when the trident buries its barbs in the dirt for a second time.

Across the field, four of the six lacedons are grasped and drug down by Beloc's vines. The remaining two don't bother waiting for their comrades. They cover another 30 foot of the gap between themselves and the party, putting them within melee range this round.

To the south, where the giant entered, 4 more lacedons can be seen running towards the group. These don't look like the rest you've all fought so far. These are armed, wicked curved swords in hand and breastplates covering their sickly frames. They wear tattered khaki jumpsuits underneath their armor. The cloth is sopping wet. The equipment overall is rusted and pockmarked. One of them appears to have a rifle on his back, that doesn't show the same signs of saltwater exposure as the rest. All four are wearing ghastly helmets with elongated noses that look like beaks.

Beloc, Sypher, Shiaran - AoO on the giant
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:51, Sun 14 May 2017.
Beloc S'Viscus
player, 161 posts
Wood Elf
Fighter/Druid - Gestault
Sun 14 May 2017
at 03:56
  • msg #292

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Beloc swings wildly in frustration as the giant charges past him, his blades connecting with nothing but air.
This message was last edited by the player at 03:57, Sun 14 May 2017.
Shiaran Whiteraven
player, 132 posts
Human
Wizard/Rogue Gestault
Sun 14 May 2017
at 03:57
  • msg #293

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Shiaran darts in and slices across the other leg of the giant with her sword.  The blade chips off a piece, but the cold blue aura flashes and ice begins to form at the wound. "Rebort!  One of them has a gun!"  Shiaran hopes the golem knows what she's referring to.
This message was last edited by the player at 03:59, Sun 14 May 2017.
Sypher Whiteraven
player, 122 posts
Human
Paladin/Monk - Gestault
Sun 14 May 2017
at 04:09
  • msg #294

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Sypher calmly swipes the giant's leg out from under it.  The white fire contacts the frozen limb with explosive results.  The leg shatters and the giant falls to the ground.  Frozen bits fly everywhere, not fast enough to hurt anyone, but enough to make it look like the giant took more damage when it fell than it probably did.

Ignoring the approaching lacedons, Sypher moves quickly to the giant's head.  He raises the weapon with both hands on the hilt, blade down. "For Kallium."  He rams the First Blade of House Whiteraven home, right between the eye-less sockets.  The skull shatters in a flaming, icy blast.

Sypher whirls to face the incoming attackers.  "We need to get out of here."
R.E.B.O.R.T.
Warforged, 46 posts
Fighter
Artificer
Sun 14 May 2017
at 13:24
  • msg #295

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

R.E.B.O.R.T. starts scanning the area as he snaps in a fresh magazine to his rifle. "Scanning for target..."

Off in the distance, R.E.B.O.R.T. spots the ghoul Shiaran called out. "Target acquired!"

If the group is planning to run, a ghoul with a rifle would surely cause a lot of damage in the retreat. He squeezes the trigger, letting another round loose. It hits the target in the upper right shoulder, spinning it around awkwardly, taking the right arm completely off in the process. It falls to the ground motionless.

08:17, Today: R.E.B.O.R.T. rolled 19 using 2d10+2.  Damage vs. lacedon w/ rifle.

This message was last edited by the player at 13:51, Sun 14 May 2017.
Beloc S'Viscus
player, 162 posts
Wood Elf
Fighter/Druid - Gestault
Sun 14 May 2017
at 13:30
  • msg #296

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Seeing their only chance at completely their mission get tossed across the yard like a child's plaything, causes a certain amount of worry to set it. Beloc sprints over to the Major only to find the life has already drained out of him. Kallium's last words ring in the back of his mind. The book... take the book.

There was no time to search the pack for the book, so Beloc decides to take the whole thing. Being pinned to the ground in the manner that he is, however, makes it hard to remove the pack, but he works as quickly as he can to unbuckle it and remove it.
Dungeon Master
GM, 184 posts
Roller of Dice
Giver of Trinkets
Mon 15 May 2017
at 03:26
  • msg #297

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

With the southward lacedons down a man, the remaining three stop. One quickly recovers the rifle from his fallen comrade, and all three hit the dirt and go prone behind fallen bodies of both marine and undead. One even takes care in dragging his wounded comrade to safety, while another manages to snatch up a rifle from a dead marine. It rapidly becomes apparent these aren't like the any the group has been dispatching.

Shiaran and Sypher's turn. Two lacedons in immediate melee range (from snared group). 4 more out 30 feet away snared by Beloc's grasping vines".
Shiaran Whiteraven
player, 133 posts
Human
Wizard/Rogue Gestault
Mon 15 May 2017
at 03:47
  • msg #298

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

With the new tactics from the fresh batch of ghouls, Shiaran alters her own strategy.  Given that the one near her is intent on following, she passes to one side when she slashes at it with her sword.  The blow does little damage, but it serves to put her closer to the writhing mass of Beloc's spell.  She takes a backward step toward the one side of the mass that would keep it between her and the gun ghouls.
Sypher Whiteraven
player, 123 posts
Human
Paladin/Monk - Gestault
Mon 15 May 2017
at 03:58
  • msg #299

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Sypher cuts through the ghoul that approaches him almost as an afterthought as he eyes the rifle-toting ghouls.  Judging the distance too far, he looks around at the rest of his party and moves toward whomever needs help or healing.
Dungeon Master
GM, 185 posts
Roller of Dice
Giver of Trinkets
Mon 15 May 2017
at 10:53
  • msg #300

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

The lacedons Shiaran strikes is instantly crusted over with an icey rime.

Meanwhile the 4 lacedons under Beloc's spell struggle to no avail.

Over to the west, beyond the haze of smoke and evening gloom, several small explosions pop, sending bright waves of orange light through the fog of war. The resounding cries heard after each explosion aren't that of human, but are of lacedons screeching in pain.

The sharpshooter lacedons to the south open fire, taking inaccurate pot shots at anything moving. One round strikes the frozen lacedon, sending a quarter of its frozen skull flying in a fine, frosty mist.

Within the haze beyond the sharpshooter, more figures can be seen emerging. Dozens of lacedons, wearing the same gear as the four prone. They aren't running or rushing forward. They march in a line, shoulder to shoulder, and span across a 180 ft stretch of the field. The vast majority are already carrying rifles scavenged from the dead, and they have them lowered, bayonets pointing forward as they march.
R.E.B.O.R.T.
Warforged, 47 posts
Fighter
Artificer
Mon 15 May 2017
at 12:44
  • msg #301

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

His newly built in feature of undead detection alerts him to the incoming danger. R.E.B.O.R.T. addresses the rest of the group. "I detect an overwhelming number of enemies approaching from the south. A tactical retreat appears to be the only chance at survival."
Sypher Whiteraven
player, 124 posts
Human
Paladin/Monk - Gestault
Mon 15 May 2017
at 16:35
  • msg #302

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Sypher makes his way over to Shiaran, eviscerating the frozen lacedon on the way with a casual sword swing across the middle.  "Let's move.  I'll take point."  True to his word, he starts heading for the officer's mess hall [Building A].
Shiaran Whiteraven
player, 134 posts
Human
Wizard/Rogue Gestault
Mon 15 May 2017
at 16:37
  • msg #303

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"Rebort.  You and I will lay down cover fire.  Conserve your ammo for things that get close or become a nuisance.  Beloc, will you guard our backs?"  Shiaran sheaths her blade and draws her second pistol, looking for surprises, even from above.
Beloc S'Viscus
player, 163 posts
Wood Elf
Fighter/Druid - Gestault
Mon 15 May 2017
at 22:27
  • msg #304

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Beloc slings Kallium's pack over his shoulder, sheaths his falchion, and draws the trench gun. He pumps the forearm, chambering a shell. "I have your back."
This message was last edited by the player at 23:07, Mon 15 May 2017.
R.E.B.O.R.T.
Warforged, 48 posts
Fighter
Artificer
Mon 15 May 2017
at 22:29
  • msg #305

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

R.E.B.O.R.T. holsters the rifle on his back, and out pops the forearm mounted pistols again. "Ammo reserves at 99.3% capacity."

He follows beside Shiaran.
This message was last edited by the player at 23:07, Mon 15 May 2017.
Dungeon Master
GM, 186 posts
Roller of Dice
Giver of Trinkets
Mon 15 May 2017
at 23:46
  • msg #306

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

As the party starts to trek back across the field and North towards the mess hall, the fighting there is a full on frenzy. The watery ghouls and marines alike are strewn in every direction. Several of the undead are too busy gnawing on the mangled corpses of servicemen to give a second thought to the group. As you get nearer, you see muzzle flashes coming from both inside the halls darkened windows. A round wizzes by Sypher's head, missing him and the rest by less than a foot. You don't know if it's poor aim or a warning shot, or in the gloomy haze sweeping across the parade field whether or not whomever fired can even make out who you are. The ghouls continue to pour all over the building, searching for entry and receiving bullets and improvised melee weapons at the windows. Several windows even appear to be blocked off now by the long cafeteria style tables the enlisted eat on. To the west, more small flashes of light, presumably a mage's arcane fireball, rain down to consume their targets. Being closer to the west gate you all can distinctly see the light arcing down from up high, possibly the outer wall.
Shiaran Whiteraven
player, 135 posts
Human
Wizard/Rogue Gestault
Tue 16 May 2017
at 00:56
  • msg #307

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"I'm sorry, Sy.  I know you want to, but we have a mission.  If we go in, the risk is high that we die with them.  If we finish our mission, we stop this."  Shiaran's look is firm, but understanding of the forces waging war in Sypher's mind.
Sypher Whiteraven
player, 125 posts
Human
Paladin/Monk - Gestault
Tue 16 May 2017
at 00:59
  • msg #308

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Sypher looks at the officer's mess, then at the swarming undead.  His shoulders slump a little, but he nods his acquiescence.  "I'll take point."  He directs himself west toward the town and starts off at a trot slow enough to allow the others to keep up.  Two lacedon munching on remains are obliterated in his quiet fury.
Shiaran Whiteraven
player, 136 posts
Human
Wizard/Rogue Gestault
Tue 16 May 2017
at 01:03
  • msg #309

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

As they move, Shiaran keeps up with possible tactics.  "If we make for Darius Grintome's, he might have some things we need, transportation, or at least give us some firepower we need to break out of here and get pointed toward our first ley line."
R.E.B.O.R.T.
Warforged, 49 posts
Fighter
Artificer
Tue 16 May 2017
at 01:14
  • msg #310

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

R.E.B.O.R.T. follows up with Shiaran's comment. "I know Darius well. If he is there, and still alive, he can help."
Beloc S'Viscus
player, 164 posts
Wood Elf
Fighter/Druid - Gestault
Tue 16 May 2017
at 01:14
  • msg #311

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Beloc says nothing. He keeps his focus on their flank, twitching at every sudden movement around them.
Dungeon Master
GM, 187 posts
Roller of Dice
Giver of Trinkets
Tue 16 May 2017
at 02:37
  • msg #312

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

The group leaves the premises of the chow hall, headed for the West Gate. Along the way, they dispatch several more lacedons and ghouls, striking them down without losing an ounce of momentum in their stride.

As they move along the road between the two office buildings just outside the gate, the group can definitely confirm that the fireballs are coming from the top of the twenty foot wall surrounding the perimeter of the base. Just before getting to the gate, a blast of flame screams at the group, making a beeline for them. As the party scrambles to get out of the way, the fireball changes its path, and gains just enough altitude to fly overhead. It travels another 30 foot before crashing in to a group of four ghoul infantrymen, who had managed to tail the party.

From up on the wall, a shadowy figure clad in a flowing cloak steps off the edge. It doesn't fall, but instead gracefully sails downward, the cloak billowing out and flapping in all directions behind the figure. The man touches down just ten foot from the party, standing between them and the gate. A shriek to the right of the new comer reveals a lacedon with an engorged stomach, as it barrels out of the shadows towards the man. He raises a cane out from under his cloak, and points it at the lacedon. A blast of sparks and flame erupt from the end of the cane, making the sound of a very loud gunshot. The lacedon explodes from the waist up, showering the ground behind it with entrails.
Darius Grintome
NPC, 15 posts
Mage
Tue 16 May 2017
at 11:06
  • msg #313

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"I'd hoped to cross paths with you three again, but never under these circumstances. Where's Kallium?".
Shiaran Whiteraven
player, 137 posts
Human
Wizard/Rogue Gestault
Tue 16 May 2017
at 11:38
  • msg #314

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Shiaran purses her lips grimly.  "He didn't make it.  A giant got him."
Darius Grintome
NPC, 16 posts
Mage
Tue 16 May 2017
at 11:57
  • msg #315

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Darius grimaces. "That complicates the situation quite a bit. I really liked him. Kallium was a good elf. What do you all intend to do now?".
Sypher Whiteraven
player, 126 posts
Human
Paladin/Monk - Gestault
Tue 16 May 2017
at 12:04
  • msg #316

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"Fildegarne has no choice.  We finish the mission."  Sypher's voice is quiet, ominous.
Darius Grintome
NPC, 17 posts
Mage
Tue 16 May 2017
at 12:10
  • msg #317

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"Then would you mind hosting a cripple on your journey? I can't directly trek along with you into the lion's den, but I'm familiar with the lay of the land and her people".
Beloc S'Viscus
player, 165 posts
Wood Elf
Fighter/Druid - Gestault
Tue 16 May 2017
at 12:53
  • msg #318

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Beloc remains quite for the majority of the conversation, not only out of the loss of a fellow wood elf but because they'd lost their guide on this crusade. Aside from the remnants of a few bruises and scrapes, he appears to be fully healed from the previous encounters.

His ears perk up, however, when Darius asks to join them. "It would be an honor." He looks around at the devastation this attack has already caused. "I'm sorry I couldn't help defend you shop here. You know these soldiers fairly well, do you think they'll be able to fend off this assault if we leave?"
R.E.B.O.R.T.
Warforged, 50 posts
Fighter
Artificer
Tue 16 May 2017
at 12:59
  • msg #319

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

If R.E.B.O.R.T. could smile, he would be. "It looks as though our path is still one and the same."

Without warning, he raises one of his wrist mounted pistols to their flank and fires off two seemingly random shots. Off in the distance, a charging lacedon drops dead in its tracks.

"This environment is too hostile for conversation. Seeking cover is advised."
Darius Grintome
NPC, 18 posts
Mage
Tue 16 May 2017
at 14:07
  • msg #320

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Darius nods at Rebort. "Right, this way". Darius makes his way out of the gate, with the party in tow. All around the gate are the charred remains of undead. In some areas they  pile on top of one another, some still smoking. "Less than an hour ago, several wards triggered in my shop. I keep them as a forwarning to something like this. As far as I know, the town remains untouched save for a few that may have gotten out before I arrived. They'll be dealt with by the constables and patrols soon enough. The base should hold, but it will be with heavy loss. Filty carrion eaters planned well this time, choosing to attack at dinner. They managed to catch 90 percent of the military here all sitting down to eat. They quickly forget the lessons of battles past though. Fildegarians do not bend and break when backed into a corner. We mold to its shape, make it our own, and come out bearing teeth". Darius rounds the corner of an empty guard shack, outside of the motorpool. "We can grab a ride to put some distance between us and them for now. Hopefully no one left any bread crumbs to let them on to your mission. I'll drive. Rebort, man the machine fed gun turret. Shiaran, take the passenger seat guns. Beloc and the gentleman who's name I've yet to catch, if you would, be our eyes. You'll find viewing ports all over this thing".

Darius opens a side door to a vehicle that Shiaran would recognize from earlier. It towers over him, and it's covered with armor plating. A turret sits atop with a large machine fed gun and a smaller one. Another of the small variety sticks out from a port on the front left seat. It has a hatch on either side for entry, as well as one on the backside of the turret. A flatbed with rails makes up the tail of the vehicle, complete with digging spades, ropes, fuel cans, and a barrel marked "water".

"I'm ready to go whenever you are. If you have any unfinished business, I suggest making it expeditious"
Sypher Whiteraven
player, 127 posts
Human
Paladin/Monk - Gestault
Tue 16 May 2017
at 14:28
  • msg #321

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"Sypher Whiteraven." He nods to the mage in short greeting.  "Our business lies ahead.  Thank you for joining us."  Sypher climbs in.
Shiaran Whiteraven
player, 138 posts
Human
Wizard/Rogue Gestault
Tue 16 May 2017
at 14:30
  • msg #322

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Shiaran places a hand on Darius' upper arm and squeezes gently.  "I'm glad you made it."  She climbs in and man's the side gun.
Beloc S'Viscus
player, 166 posts
Wood Elf
Fighter/Druid - Gestault
Tue 16 May 2017
at 15:45
  • msg #323

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Beloc nods and heads to the side opposite Shiaran and peers out the view ports.
R.E.B.O.R.T.
Warforged, 51 posts
Fighter
Artificer
Tue 16 May 2017
at 15:51
  • msg #324

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

R.E.B.O.R.T. climbs in and straps himself into the machine feed turret. He gets himself situated and sets his sights down the barrel. A small rectangular monocle slides out of a side panel at eye level and rests over his right eye.

"Ready."
Dungeon Master
GM, 188 posts
Roller of Dice
Giver of Trinkets
Wed 17 May 2017
at 01:13
  • msg #325

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Darius turns a key next to the steering wheel, and the engine of the armored car roars to life. Steam seeps from overflow valves on the outside of the vehicle, and Rebort finds the turret become exceptionally easy to rotate. Rebort notices on top of the turret there is an additional hatch, likely for popping up to get a view of the surroundings. The turret itself houses two guns. One that looks to be a modified gremlin machine automatic rifle (GMAR). The other is much larger, and looks to fire rounds that make the M-92 breach rounds look small. Mounted on the front armored window of the passenger seat is another modified GMAR.

Darius calls out "Hang on to your seats" as the car lurches forward. He tears out of the motor pool nearly on three wheels.

From your limited view ports, the city looks much like it did when you ventured out earlier in the day, save for being dimly lit by street lamps powered by the same amber crystals found in the chow hall.

Darius takes the armored car down twisting and turning streets. Even though the elevation is relatively flat, it's dizzying and disorienting. After a few moments, he says "We're now leaving the city".

The amber light of street lamps fades. Darius flips a switch on the dash and two bright white crystal ignite on the front of the armored car, bathing a 50 foot cone in front of the vehicle in bright, white light. "There are several more of those on the sides, take note of where the switches are in case we need them". In the distance, the orange glow of the fire shines on the bottoms of the clouds above.

After driving for half an hour, Darius finally pulls over on the side of a dirt road. "We can break here for the night. Traveling further in the dark could land us on top of a heavily armed patrol. Is everyone alright?".
Beloc S'Viscus
player, 167 posts
Wood Elf
Fighter/Druid - Gestault
Wed 17 May 2017
at 02:13
  • msg #326

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Beloc looks himself over, somewhat amazed. "As good as new, thanks to that little trinket of yours."
R.E.B.O.R.T.
Warforged, 52 posts
Fighter
Artificer
Wed 17 May 2017
at 02:23
  • msg #327

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

R.E.B.O.R.T. climbs down from the turret, still dented and leaking an odd colored fluid. "Primary systems still intact, barely. Damage sustained was limited to my external surfaces."

Beloc walks over and attempts a minor healing spell, but R.E.B.O.R.T. stops him before wasting the energy. "While I am still mostly organic in nature, many of my systems interfere with the healing magic ones such as yourselves rely on and are only half as effective. A new type of magic has been forged to care for ones such as myself."

He looks over to Darius. "Wizards such as Darius, and other arcane practitioners, can be schooled in such ways."
Shiaran Whiteraven
player, 139 posts
Human
Wizard/Rogue Gestault
Wed 17 May 2017
at 03:34
  • msg #328

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

During the trip, Shiaran learns all she can about the vehicle asking nonstop questions.  When the car comes to a stop, she is still talking.

Shiaran perks up at Rebort's comments.  "I'd like to learn."  She looks back in the direction of the city.  "Master Grintome, why didn't the invaders attack the city?"
This message was last edited by the player at 03:38, Wed 17 May 2017.
Sypher Whiteraven
player, 128 posts
Human
Paladin/Monk - Gestault
Wed 17 May 2017
at 03:36
  • msg #329

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Sypher moves his view from window to window trying to keep an eye out for trouble.  When the automobile finally stops, he looks slightly relieved.

"I am unharmed.  Are we sleeping in the vehicle?"
Darius Grintome
NPC, 19 posts
Mage
Wed 17 May 2017
at 10:54
  • msg #330

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Darius answers the questions as they come.

Despite the enclosed space of the vehicle (more commonly referred to as a "Badger") there's enough room for 8 medium sized humanoids to fit inside. Darius explains the machine is a short range troop transport. They get used for everything from delivering special tactics teams to critical battlefield areas, to medivacing wounded from the front lines. It has a range of 100 miles before neesing to be refueled. Theres enough fuel in the spare cans to refuel once. Acquiring more will be an "as needed and on site" evolution. The mounted GMARs function the same as the standard issues one, just these are hard mounted to the vehicle. They can be removed, but they lack bipods and won't be as accurate. The large MAR mounted to the turret can also be detached, but suffers from the same accuracy problems without specialized equipment to stabilize it. Its rounds are large enough to punch through any humanoid armor, and other light vehicles such as the Badger. The vehicle is immune to most small arms fire, due to its armor plating, but doesn't hold up well against armor piercing rounds or explosives. The 6 wheel configuration is fair at navigating rough terrain, but mud is an absolute Achilles heel to the thing.

Speaking on the city of Langdon, he explains the attacking force will concentrate their full might on the military first, then the spoils of civilian life second. He seems fairly confident that that battle will turn in favor of Fildegarne.

Answering Sypher, he explains that it would be best to try and get comfortable in the confines of the Badger. Sleeping outside, while an option, carries with it inherent risk.

Darius also take the time to weave the necessary mending spells to fix Rebort, and produces a few small vials of red liquid; a healing draught for anyone in need.

"If there are no more questions for now, I suggest we all get some rest. We'll sort out our course in the morning, and plan a route. Hopefully we can find a contigents of our own forces to get the latest details on PCA activity, and soon"
Sypher Whiteraven
player, 129 posts
Human
Paladin/Monk - Gestault
Wed 17 May 2017
at 12:07
  • msg #331

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Sypher nods and tries to find a spot to sleep.  His mind races with all that has happened in the last couple of days.  Eleven years.  What can one individual hope to do to stand against such immeasurable destructive power?  Guns?  Tanks?  Warships?  All of civilization will crumble into ruin.  The paladin shrugs off the melancholy.  No.  Iehova is greater still.  He is the Creator of all things.  I will rest in that thought and give my life to Him and His cause.  Nothing else matters.

He takes out his small, leather-bound book and reads from it from somewhere near it's middle.
 After a few moments of study, he closes the book and secures it again in his vest.  Finally secure in his own mind, the overwhelming transition pushed back to the periphery, Sypher finally sleeps.
Shiaran Whiteraven
player, 140 posts
Human
Wizard/Rogue Gestault
Wed 17 May 2017
at 12:16
  • msg #332

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

Shiaran pays attention to the casting of the repair spells on the golem.  Her time with the mage is limited and there is - not a desperation or anxiety, but - an urgency in her hunger to learn from him all she can before they have to separate.

The technology also fascinates her and she pays rapt attention to every word out of the man's mouth.  When he indicates the fate of the city, there is a momentary pang of regret that she did not stay to help, to prepare the city for what was to come.  It was a tactical liability if the military started to win.  The PCA would move on to the city as a distraction to draw out the entrenched Fildegarnians.

There is nothing to be done about it now.  Our best option to save the most people will be the ley lines.  The internal debate completed, Shiaran finally passes out at the gunnery seat, the last besides Darius.
Beloc S'Viscus
player, 168 posts
Wood Elf
Fighter/Druid - Gestault
Wed 17 May 2017
at 12:50
  • msg #333

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

He stirs for a bit trying to get comfortable but even finds some quiet enough to fall asleep.
This message was last edited by the player at 13:03, Wed 17 May 2017.
R.E.B.O.R.T.
Warforged, 53 posts
Fighter
Artificer
Wed 17 May 2017
at 12:54
  • msg #334

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

"Thank you, Darius."

The dents and claw marks magically pop out and fades away as the mage finishes his casting. Without the need for sleep, R.E.B.O.R.T. assumes watch over the rest of the group. Throughout the night, he scribbles away on little bits of parchment as he tries to bind words of magic to them.

R.E.B.O.R.T. is going to try and start producing scrolls while he can during rest time.
Dungeon Master
GM, 189 posts
Roller of Dice
Giver of Trinkets
Wed 17 May 2017
at 13:44
  • msg #335

Episode Two: Gone are Better Days

With the days events done, the group drifts off to an uneasy sleep. The journey is just beginning, and many trials abd tough decisions lie ahead.

The Argonette Forest and spectral fault await...


END OF EPISODE TWO: GONE ARE THE BETTER DAYS
Sign In